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CRS272Arts2 Unitsintermediate

Ecumenism

This course explores the historical development, theological foundations, and practical applications of ecumenism. It examines the causes of divisions within the Christian church and the various attempts to foster unity. The course covers global, regional, and local ecumenical structures, emphasizing the role of dialogue, social action, and interfaith cooperation. Students will analyze contemporary issues and the significance of ecumenism in promoting national integration and world peace.

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52h
Study Time
13
Weeks
4h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
EcumenismChurch UnityInterfaith DialogueReconciliationChristian Theology

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Definition of Ecumenism

2

Historical Development of Ecumenism

3

Theological Foundations for Church Unity

4

Ecumenical Structures

5

Goals and Objectives of Ecumenism

6

Ecumenism and Social Justice

Total Topics6 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Tutor-Marked Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Final Examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Computer Based Test

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Religious Leader

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Theologian

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Missionary

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Social Worker

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Peace and Conflict Resolution Specialist

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Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Religious OrganizationsNon-Profit OrganizationsInternational DevelopmentSocial ServicesEducation

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Introduction

4h

Unit 1: Definition of Ecumenism and Its Genesis

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.1: Definition of Ecumenism and Its Genesis. Identify key figures and events.
  • •Reflect on the controversies and divisions that led to ecumenical assemblies.

Unit 2: Initial Controversies, Divisions and Early Ecumenical Assemblies

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.2: Initial Controversies, Divisions and Early Ecumenical Assemblies. Analyze the issues of Trinity and Christology.
  • •Discuss the impact of the Filioque controversy and the Great Schism.
Week
2

Module 1: Introduction

4h

Unit 3: The Growth of Ecumenism

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.3: The Growth of Ecumenism. Examine the Reformation and its impact on church divisions.
  • •Analyze the theological controversies involving Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin.

Unit 4: Formation of the World Council of Churches (WCC)

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.4: Formation of the World Council of Churches (WCC). Understand the roles of the Life and Work movement and Faith and Order movement.
  • •Discuss the vision and structure of the WCC.
Week
3

Module 2: Theological Grounds for Ecumenism

4h

Unit 1: Ecumenical unity as a reflection of the unity of God

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.1: Ecumenical unity as a reflection of the unity of God. Understand the Trinity and its implications for church unity.
  • •Reflect on the relationship between diversity and unity within the Godhead.

Unit 2: Christ's teaching on church unity

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.2: Christ's teaching on church unity. Analyze Christ's priestly prayer in John 17.
  • •Discuss the metaphor of the shepherd and the flock.
Week
4

Module 2: Theological Grounds for Ecumenism

3h

Unit 3: Apostolic teaching on church unity

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.3: Apostolic teaching on church unity. Examine Paul's teachings on unity in 1 Corinthians and Ephesians.
  • •Discuss the concept of the church as the body of Christ.
Week
5

Module 2: Theological Grounds for Ecumenism

4h

Unit 4: The doctrine of the church in history

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.4: The doctrine of the church in history. Understand the patristic period and the Reformers' views on church unity.
  • •Discuss the concept of communion of saints.

Unit 5: The significance of church unity

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.5: The significance of church unity. Reflect on the importance of unity for the church's mission.
  • •Discuss the New Delhi statement on unity.
Week
6

Module 3: The Structure of Ecumenism

3h

Unit 1: Global Ecumenism

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.1: Global Ecumenism. Understand the role of the WCC.
  • •Discuss the various models of union: organic union, conciliar fellowship, reconciled diversity, communion of saints, unity as solidarity.
Week
7

Module 3: The Structure of Ecumenism

4h

Unit 2: Regional Ecumenism in Africa

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.2: Regional Ecumenism in Africa. Examine the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC).
  • •Discuss the challenges of competition and rivalry among churches in Africa.

Unit 3: The All Africa Conference of Churches

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.3: The All Africa Conference of Churches. Analyze the impact of ecumenical movements in contemporary Nigeria.
  • •Discuss the roles of CAN, CCN and TEKAN.
Week
8

Module 3: The Structure of Ecumenism

3h

Unit 4: Sub-Regional Ecumenism or local Ecumenism in Nigeria

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.4: Sub-Regional Ecumenism or local Ecumenism in Nigeria. Understand the roles of CAN, CCN and TEKAN.
  • •Discuss the challenges and opportunities for ecumenism in Nigeria.
Week
9

Module 4: The Goals and Objectives of Ecumenism

4h

Unit 1: The Goals and Objectives of Ecumenism

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.1: The Goals and Objectives of Ecumenism. Understand the role of dialogue and fellowship.
  • •Reflect on the importance of addressing injustice, discrimination, and poverty.

Unit 2: Building an Ecumenical Culture through dialogue on Theology and Practice

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.2: Building an Ecumenical Culture through dialogue on Theology and Practice. Analyze the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts.
  • •Discuss the Lutheran-Reformed dialogue and the Lutheran World Federation's engagement with the Roman Catholic Church.
Week
10

Module 4: The Goals and Objectives of Ecumenism

4h

Unit 3: Christian Social Action for Justice and Reconciliation

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.3: Christian Social Action for Justice and Reconciliation. Understand the role of the church in promoting justice and reconciliation.
  • •Discuss the need for addressing social injustice and economic disparity.

Unit 4: Facilitation of Diakonia Ministry among Churches in Missions

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.4: Facilitation of Diakonia Ministry among Churches in Missions. Reflect on the importance of serving the disadvantaged.
  • •Discuss the role of the church in building inclusive communities.
Week
11

Module 4: The Goals and Objectives of Ecumenism

3h

Unit 5: Facilitation of interfaith Dialogue

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.5: Facilitation of interfaith Dialogue. Understand the importance of interfaith dialogue for sharing the gospel.
  • •Discuss the WCC's guidelines on dialogue and the challenges of pluralism.
Week
12

Module 5: The Sociology of Ecumenism

4h

Unit 1: Building a Responsible Society

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.1: Building a Responsible Society. Understand the biblical principles for developing a responsible society.
  • •Reflect on the role of the church in promoting justice and freedom.

Unit 2: Church and Society

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.2: Church and Society. Analyze the relationship between the church and society.
  • •Discuss the church's role in caring for the poor and vulnerable.
Week
13

Module 5: The Sociology of Ecumenism

4h

Unit 3: Church unity and unity of Humanity

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.3: Church unity and unity of Humanity. Understand the importance of church unity for promoting unity of humanity.
  • •Discuss the challenges of social, economic, and political discrimination.

Unit 4: Cultural Mandate: Politics and Christian Faith

2 study hours
  • •Read Unit 3.4: Cultural Mandate: Politics and Christian Faith. Reflect on the role of Christian politicians in promoting good governance.
  • •Discuss the importance of addressing poverty and disease in Africa.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create a timeline of key events in the history of ecumenism, focusing on major councils and movements.

2

Develop concept maps linking theological concepts like the Trinity, Christology, and ecclesiology to ecumenical principles.

3

Practice applying ecumenical principles to case studies of contemporary social and political issues.

4

Review the structure and functions of major ecumenical organizations like the WCC, AACC, CAN, and TEKAN.

5

Focus on understanding the different models of church unity and their implications for ecumenical practice.

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