Christian Morality
Level 2 – Course 8: Six Sessions
The course provides an overview of the fundamental principles of Christian morality. Topics will include the development of conscience, moral responsibility, human sexuality and end-of-life decisions. Students will learn the basics of Christian Morality through the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the essential elements of living a moral Christian life and how to apply these principles in everyday life settings.
Student Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will have a clear understanding of the principles that govern Christian-Catholic morality. Participants in the course will also have the opportunity to study the sources of moral principles in Sacred Scripture and in the teachings of the Magisterium of the Catholic Church.
Suggested Course Outline
I. Christian Morality and the Love of God
a. Christian Moral Life as a Response to the Love of God
b. Christian Moral Life as a Life in the Spirit
c. Christian Moral Life as Sacramental Life
II. Christian Morality and the Reign of God
a. Catechism
b. Christian Convictions About the Reign of God
c. Christian Moral Life as Active Participation in Christ’s Work of Building the Reign of God
d. Christian Moral Life and “Thisworldliness”
III. Christian Morality and the Process of Conscience
a. Catechism
b. Conscience as Capacity for Goodness and Rightness
c. Conscience as Process: The Homework of Moral Decision Making
d. Conscience as Judgement: Taking Responsibility
IV. Christian Morality and the Dynamics of Sin and Conversion
a. Catechism
b. Original and Actual Sin
c. Conversion as Command and Possibility
d. Resurrection Faith and Christian Hope
V. Christian Morality and Issues of Health and Life
a. Catechism
b. Catholic Convictions Concerning the Promotion of Health and Preservation of Life
c. Catholic Convictions Direct and Indirect Killing
d. Catholic Convictions Concerning the Use and Nonuse of Medical Treatment
VI. Christian Morality and Human Sexuality
a. Catechism
b. Christian Faith and Sexuality: Creation and Integration
c. Norms and Values: Specific Issues
d. Laws of Growth
VII. Christian Morality and Social Responsibility
a. Catechism
b. Starting Points: Human Dignity and Human Rights
c. Economic Justice
d. Preferential Love for the Poor