Course aims:

to develop an aptitude for careful theological reflection about worship;
to develop an aptitude for careful theological reflection about worship;
to appreciate more and understand more deeply their own liturgical tradition and worship;
to develop basic skills in worship and conducting liturgical services;
to articulate key biblical and theological foundations of Christian worship.

Course Entry Requirements:

n/a

Course contents:

1. Introduction to the Liturgical theology, 2. Explore the sources of the Church’s liturgy, 3. Studying the liturgy, 4. Historical evolution of Christian liturgy [1], 5. Historical evolution of Christian liturgy [2], 6. Historical evolution of Christian liturgy [3], 7. Historical evolution of Christian liturgy [4], 8. The shape of the orthodox liturgy, 9. Holy orders, 10. Liturgical books and their use in the Church, 11. On the orthodox hymnology, 12. Liturgical vestments, vessels and liturgical objects, 13. Material in the liturgical services, 14. Investigating today orthodox worship.

Teaching methods:

Lecture, conversation, exemplification, PowerPoint presentation, video-projections etc.

Learning outcomes:

• To give knowledge, understanding and a correct using of liturgical basic concepts specific to the Orthodox Christian liturgy; • To provide the necessary methodological and research skills for further study and research in liturgical topics;

Learning outcomes verification and assessment criteria:

Colloquium (heuristic dialogue) – 50%; written paper (interpretative essay) – 30%; continuous assessment – 20%.

Recommended reading:

Ene Braniște, Liturgica generală, Edit. IBMBOR, București, 1985, x.
Alexandru Schmemann, Introducere în teologia liturgică, Edit. Sophia, București, 2002, x.
Paul Bradshaw, Early Christian Worship: A Basic Introduction to Ideas and Practice, SPCK, London, 1996, x.
Paul Bradshaw, The search for the Origins of Christian Worship: Sources and Methods for the Study of Early Liturgy. 2nd ed., Oxford, London/New York, 2002, x.
Robert F. Taft, The Byzantine Rite: A Short History, Liturgical Pres, Minnesota, Collegeville, 1992, x.