THEO-285 Christian Thinkers: Karl Rahner

Faculty:

Hentz, Otto

This course will study the theology of Karl Rahner, commonly considered the preeminent Catholic systematic theologian of our time, and influential in the development of Christian theology generally. Rahner articulates the structure and dynamics of faith in a way that shows the interconnection of the various dimensions of faith. In doing so he aims to explain why it makes sense to believe in God, in Christ, and in the Church; to understand oneself to be called by God; to pray, and in making life choices to seek to discern God’s will. So a spirituality is built into his theology, which also, because systematic, provides a framework for situating various developments in theology. It should be noted that reading Rahner, whose writing is dense, makes for a demanding exercise.

Credits: 3.00

Prerequisites: None

THEO-285-01 Christian Thinkers: Karl Rahner

Faculty:

Hentz, Otto

Karl Rahner, S.J., called “The Church Father of Roman Catholic Theology in the Twentieth Century,” has had a profound influence in the development of Christian Theology in our time. As did that of Thomas Aquinas for many generations, Rahner’s theology now commonly serves as an authoritative point of reference for theologians in the Roman Catholic community and, as well, an important reference for some theologians of other Christian denominations. The course will begin with Rahner’s fundamental analysis of the human person’s relation to God and proceed through his treatment of revelation, faith, Christ, church, sacrament, spirituality and fundamental ethics. It should be noted that Rahner’s writing makes serious demands and would not please a facile or faint hearted reader.

Credits: 3.00

Prerequisites: None

Other academic years
There is information about this course number in other academic years:

• 2006-2007 Fall and Spring
• 2007-2008 Fall and Spring
• 2009-2010 Fall and Spring
• 2010-2011 Fall and Spring
• 2011-2012 Fall and Spring
• 2012-2013 Fall and Spring

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