Kursinformation

History of Christian Spirituality

Christian spirituality can be understood as the set of practices and means by which human relationship to God is expressed and experienced. These include various forms of prayer, piety and liturgy, as well as different emphases and approaches to the Scriptures, ministry and social activity. They have been developed by numerous charismatic personalities and through diverse spiritual movements in the history of the Christian Church.

Methodologically, this course examines key stages in the development of Christian spirituality through the lens of the most important representatives and their work. Readings draw especially from primary sources, represented by classical spiritual texts. Short class presentations, discussions and academic excursions to relevant historical spiritual sites serve as a useful context for critical reflection on the themes studied.