Full course description
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Dr. John Cavadini speaks often about an "Apologetics of Love," one where Christian doctrines are mysteries that invite men and women to see how much God loves us. In Christian Doctrine for Catechists III, students learn this apologetics of love through contemplating The Catechism of the Catholic Church's paragraphs 748-1690. This course answers questions such as what is the Catholic Church, and why is it essential for the salvation of the world? What do we mean when we say that the Church is one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic? Why are Catholics devoted to Mary, the Mother of God? What is a sacrament, and how is it linked to Christ's action in the Church and the world? What is Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, Penance, the Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Marriage? In the course, Dr. Cavadini draws from theological literature throughout Christian history. This course is required for those pursuing a Certificate in Catholic Theology in Catechesis and will also be of interest for those seeking to better understand how to teach and communicate the truth, beauty, and goodness of Catholicism in our own age. Christian Doctrine for Catechists III is part of a three-course sequence (Christian Doctrine for Catechists I and II). Students may take these courses in any sequence.
Course Content
Unit 1: The Church (CCC #748-801)
Unit 2: The Four Marks of the Church (CCC #811-865)
Unit 3: Mary
Unit 4: Sacraments I
Unit 5: Sacraments II
Unit 6: Sacraments III
Course Format
- Seven weeks in duration; first week for orientation.
- Up to 20 students in each course.
- Video lectures.
- Supplemental readings are provided to encourage further exploration, internet links provided for all readings.
- Written assignments (200-250) required.
- Facilitator-moderated weekly Zoom sessions with participants.
Participation Requirements
- View the lecture for each unit.
- Read assigned texts; keep notes, questions, and comments for class discussions.
- Answer weekly discussion question.
- Respond to weekly unit assignment.
- Attend weekly Zoom for each unit. If you cannot attend, you can still meet the participation requirements.
- Complete the course evaluation.
Time Expectations
3 to 5 hours per week, depending on your learning style and schedule.
Course Certificate
An electronic certificate of completion awarding 35 contact hours will be available in course when completing all course requirements.
Area: Catholic Doctrine/Catechesis