L7101A Introduction to Christian Worship

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This course unit introduces students to concepts that provide a foundation for the study of Christian worship

Background
The critical study of ancient liturgical customs in worship is detailed and complex. Current Orthodox liturgical practices, grounded in Holy Scripture and Holy Tradition, were developed over time and were influenced by a variety of factors and circumstances. This course unit will attempt to enquire into the various sources of Christian worship throughout its history. In so doing it will not only enable students to identify origins of contemporary practice but also provide an appreciation of Christian worship as the doxological and Eucharistic expression of the people of God.

Learning Outcomes & Threshold Concepts
At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a knowledge of the biblical, theological, cultural and historical foundations for the practice of Christian worship within a particular tradition.
2. Demonstrate a knowledge of the current issues within Christian worship.
3. Use a wide range of liturgical resources.
4. Prepare and conduct a range of liturgical services.
5. Differentiate the riches of the Christian liturgical traditions. 

During this course unit, students may acquire the following threshold concept. This concept is fundamental to a proper understanding of the unit or course. It is essential for further progress in the discipline: Worship is the doxological and Eucharistic expression of theology

Weekly Topics

1. Introduction and Requirements to the Course Unit
2. Primary sources for Liturgics
3. "Apostolic" Fathers; 2nd Century
4. Turn of the 3rd Century; 3rd Century
5. 4th & 5th Centuries (Hellenic) Part 1
6. 4th & 5th Centuries (Hellenic) Part 2
7. 4th & 5th Centuries (Hellenic) Part 3
8. 4th & 5th Centuries (Non-Hellenic):
9. 6th Century Onward (Hellenic)
10. Nestorian & Monophysite works; other Western sources from 6th Century onwards
11. Liturgical books; older liturgical collections
12. Jewish and Gentile influences on Christian worship