Aims

The course describes and illustrates the specific approach of pastoral theology, its role in evangelisation and its relationship with other disciplines.

Main themes

It provides a brief history of pastoral theology, as well an evocation of the major currents characterising such theology in the various Christian churches. The specific object and method of this discipline are analysed, particularly the dialectic between "theory" and "practice." The described options are illustrated through different applications using present-day pastoral questions.

Content and teaching methods

2002-2003 :
The first part of the course will consider the field covered by the term "pastoral". Biblical sources and recent magisterial data are analysed successively. We then ask how and why a "theology" is suited to take the "pastoral" as its object and end, preliminarily defined. Two themes are then examined in-depth: evangelization as the finality of all ecclesiastical action, and testimony as a privileged means to it. Given possibilities and based on student advice, a special question will then be briefly examined.

Other credits in programs