Assessment

Written Papers + Project

Module Aims

This module explores the diverse roles that the biblical canon performs as sacred scripture across a number of Christian traditions in personal, communal and liturgical contexts. Its primary aims are (1) to provide learners with a broad understanding of the role of liturgy and lectionary in shaping the way Scripture is heard and engaged; and (2) to engage in a theological exploration of the significance of Scripture as Word of God. Particular attention is paid to lectio divina and to the dynamics of transformative engagement with biblical texts.

Learning Outcomes

• — Explain a theological understanding of Scripture that supports transformative reading strategies.
• — Theologically reflect on personal experience of the various elements of lectio divina and communicate those insights appropriately with others.
• — Compare and contrast the underlying principles that inform the use of Scripture in different ecclesiological traditions.
• — Interpret scriptural lections within their liturgical context.
• — Design and prepare a celebration of the Word of God that is appropriate to a named liturgical or pastoral context.
• — Reflect personally and theologically on the continuing relevance of the Word of God in contemporary contexts.

Bibliography

• — Marco Benini, Liturgical Hermeneutics of Sacred Scripture (translated by Brian McNeil, Washington DC: CUA Press, 2023.
• — Normand Bonneau, The Sunday Lectionary: Ritual Word, Paschal Shape. Collegeville MN: Liturgical Press, 1998
• — Gordon Jeanes and Bridget Nichols (Eds), Lively Oracles of God: Perspectives on the Bible and Liturgy. Collegeville MN:Liturgical Academic Press, 2022.
• — Pontifical Biblical Commission, The Interpretation of the Bible in the Church. Sherbrooke QC: Editiones Paulines, 1994.
• — Fritz West, Scripture and Memory: The Ecumenical Hermeneutic of the Three-Year Lectionaries. Collegeville MN: Liturgical Press, 1997.
• — Vatican Council II. Dei Verbum: Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation. Promulgated by His Holiness Pope Paul VI, November 18, 1965. Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana.
• — Benedict XVI. Verbum Domini: Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation on the Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church. Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, September 30, 2010.