Sacraments – Course Syllabus

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  This course is designed to assist you to a better understanding of Catholic worship as expressed in the Church’s liturgical rites, particularly the celebration of the sacraments.  After a brief introduction to the ideas of worship and liturgy in general, an overall theology of the sacraments as the focus of the Christian’s faith life within the Church will be offered.  An outline of the historical and theological developments of each of the seven sacraments will be presented as a background to understanding the sacramental rites as reformed by the Vatican Council II, especially the Sunday celebration of the Eucharist.  The impact of this understanding for programs of sacramental preparation and the celebration of the sacraments in today’s parish will be a central concern.

Week 1:          Introduction to Worship and Liturgy and the Sacraments in general
Reading:  Catechism : pp. 277-310, 614-623

Week 2:          Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism and Confirmation
               
Week 3:          Pastoral Questions: Infant Baptism and Adolescent Confirmation
Reading:   Catechism pp. 311-333

Week 4:          The Eucharist: Sacramental meal and sacrificial memorial
Reading:  Catechism pp. 334-356

Week 5:          The Celebration of the Mass: Its Structure and Parts, the Various Ministries and Masses with Children
Reading:     Catechism pp. 624-636

Week 6:          Sacraments of Forgiveness and Healing: penance and anointing of the sick and dying
Reading:    Catechism pp. 357-382

Week 7:          Sacraments of Vocational Commitment: marriage and holy orders
Reading:    Catechism pp. 383-415

Week 8:          Reflections: Sacramental Theology, Preparation, and Celebration Today
Reading:   Catechism pp. 415-420, 637-653

Resources:
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Bible
Vatican II