Ecological Theology

THL211

This subject examines the sources, methods and difficulties of thinking theologically about creation and Christian living in the present age of ecological crisis and uncertainty. Attention is given to contemporary paradigm shifts within the natural sciences and the challenge of doing theology in the unprecedented context of global environmental peril. Theological topics covered include creation, eschatology, discipleship, mission and worship. Each of these topics is considered in light of contemporary ecological concerns.

Duration

One Semester

Availability

Semester 3 every even year

This subject will be offered as a series of intensive days: Mondays 16, 23, 30 November 2020 and Mondays 11, 18 January 2021

Subject Points

8

Core/Elective

Elective Subject for Bachelor of Theology (BTh)

Delivery Mode

On site at St Francis College Milton; or Externally – log in to listen and participate or view the lecture via video later.

Prerequisites

Students are recommended to have prior knowledge equivalent to or studied THL111 and THL113.

TBA

The year of publication and ISBN given corresponds to the copy placed in Closed Reserve at the Roscoe Library; there may be other valid ISBNs that differ because of a different publisher or format. Please contact your lecturer or the Roscoe Library staff to confirm text before purchasing. If purchasing, we recommend that you use booko.com.au.

Prescribed Texts

To be confirmed annually as the subject is offered

Assessments

Content

This subject will cover the following topics:

  • Contemporary cosmology, evolutionary biology, other sciences and their implications for theology

  • The Bible and ecotheology: sources and critical engagement

  • Christian tradition and ecotheology: sources and critical engagement

  • Development of ecotheology

  • Ecotheological methods

  • Ecotheology and other theological subdisciplines, for example, systematic theology, feminist theology, postcolonial theology, missiology

  • Ecojustice: principles and practice

  • Eschatology and the future of the cosmos

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

  • be able to discuss paradigm shifts within the natural sciences over the last five centuries and their implications for theological affirmations about creation, history and eschatology;

  • be able to examine critically biblical texts and the Christian tradition in light of ecological challenges;

  • be able to articulate ecotheological methodologies;

  • be able to relate ecotheology to other theological subdisciplines, for example, systematic theology, feminist theology, postcolonial theology, missiology;

  • be able to demonstrate a theological understanding of the principles of ecojustice within the contexts of discipleship and worship;

  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of emotional and other barriers to engaging with environmental peril, as well as approaches to overcoming them; and

  • be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including sound research, writing and communication skills.