E-seminar - The Gospels Across Cultures

Description

The reception of the Gospel across various cultures demonstrates the adaptability of early Christian thought within diverse linguistic and cultural frameworks. The Greek tradition, shaped by Hellenistic philosophy, emphasized concepts like divine wisdom and Logos, with key figures including Origen, Athanasius, and the Cappadocians. Latin Fathers such as Tertullian, Augustine, Jerome, and Ambrose reflected Roman legalism and ecclesiastical structure in theological works. Moreover, the Syriac tradition, represented by authors like Aphrahat, Ephrem the Syrian and Narsai, used poetic and mystical expressions rooted in Semitic culture. Together, these traditions illustrate how the Gospel was not only preserved but creatively adapted, allowing the Christian message to resonate within diverse contexts. The contemporary engagement of Christianity with global cultures and other religions highlights the relevance of these topics also today given the various contextual expressions of faith in an interconnected and multicultural world.

From October 5th to November 29th, 2026

• Stage 1 : The Gospel in the Greek Tradition

This step explores how early Christian theology engaged with Hellenistic philosophy. It is discussed how key figures such as Origen, Athanasius, and the Cappadocian Fathers played a crucial role in shaping the theological discourse.

• Stage 2 : The Gospel in the Latin Tradition

In this step we discuss how Christianity developed in the Latin-speaking world focusing on the legal and structural aspects of theology. We look at how figures such as Tertullian, Augustine, Jerome, and Ambrose contributed to the formulation of doctrine and the role of the Church in society.

• Stage 3 : The Gospel in the Syriac Tradition

This step discusses the Syriac Christian tradition, emphasizing its poetic and mystical expressions of faith. Within the rich Syriac tradition, figures like Aphrahat and Ephrem the Syrian contributed significantly to early Christian theology through their distinctive Semitic worldview.

• Stage 4 : The Gospel and Contemporary Global Christianity

This step explores how Christianity continues to adapt to various cultural and religious contexts today. The interplay between faith and culture is examined in light of globalization, interfaith dialogue, and contextual theologies

Objectives

• Analyze how early Christian theology interacted with Greek, Latin, and Syriac milieus
• Compare and contrast different theological traditions in their historical and cultural contexts
• Evaluate the relevance of historical theological developments for Christianity
• Discuss how Chrisianity continues to engage with diverse cultures today

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

• An understanding of early Christian theological development in Greek, Latin, and Syriac traditions
• Knowledge of some key figures and their contributions to Christian theology and doctrine
• Awareness of the role of socio-cultural context in shaping theological expressions
• Insights into the ongoing relevance of these traditions for contemporary Christian thought                     

Competence

• Critical analysis skills to examine theological texts within their historical and cultural settings
• The ability to engage in comparative theological discussions across different traditions
• Skills in articulating how historical theology informs contemporary Christian practice

Assessment Methods

The seminar assessment will be based on two main components:

• Individual analytical assignment: Students will write a one-page paper in response to a given question. This assignment will assess their ability to analyze an issue, develop a personal insight, and support their reflection with relevant theological and bibliographical references.

• Forum participation: Students' engagement in the group discussions will be evaluated, with particular attention to their ability to listen to others, relate faith to different contexts, share personal insights, and enrich theological dialogue through thoughtful, well-supported contributions.