This course will navigate through the theological dimensions of the liturgy of the Church. It will encompass the roots of the liturgy, exploring revelation in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. Throughout the course the student will encounter the liturgy in its historical context, ecclesial tradition, cultural application, forming a knowledge of liturgical development and movement through various temporal and spatial circumstances as well as the Church’s commentary throughout this development.

The academic content of this course aims at meeting the criteria for deaconate formation as articulated by the National Directory.  All material is presented in a systematic, comprehensive, and integrated manner that is faithful to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church.  The pedagogical terms used in this section are to be understood as moving from a more cursory to a deeper, more penetrating understanding of the subject matter:

1. Familiarity with the various prayer Biblical and Traditional roots of the Liturgy
2. Facility in discussing the operation of the liturgy in both physical and spiritual realms.
3. Knowledge of the spiritual realities at play in various forms of the liturgy.
4. Develop a broad understanding of the historical and cultural contexts of the various liturgical tradition.
5. Attain a synthetic knowledge of the movements and principles of the liturgy, such that it is integrated in the ability to pray fruitfully and teach effectively.