Systematic Ecclesiology, 7.5 Credits

This course explores how ideologies operates within the practical and social reality of the Church, and undertakes the task of investigating the church methodically, critically, and constructively, and thus provides an understanding of how theory and practice relates to each other through history. Systematic Ecclesiology takes an empirical approach in the study of the Church, with the aim of explaining the spiritual reality of the Church, by using social and behavioral theories in connection with the Christian faith and tradition. Systematic Ecclesiology is less concerned with the origin and original content of the Christian faith, and its presumed claim of truth, but rather concerns itself with how this content functions in the Church and how it affects the social and ecclesiastical reality, for example how power is used, and how theories affects the efficiency of the ecclesiastical organization and how liturgical theologies touches upon the People of God, and how ecclesiastical regulations may or may not effect an emancipation of people concerned. To conclude, Systematic Ecclesiology takes a critical view on the relation between theory and practice in the Church, with the aim of improving the Church.At the end of the course the student is expected to:identify fields where theory and practice necessarily seems to converge in the Church;explain how metaphysical theories of the Church may or may not relate to theories of church polity, and the practice of the Church;select methods relevant for solving problems where theory and practice is involved;interpret texts, and evaluate its relevance and impact in Church life;construct and suggest solutions for Church related issues.