PM 101 – Foundations for the Study of Theology

Basic tools for the study of theology, the development of a confident language to describe the ‘things of God’; theology as a reflection on pastoral practice; Catholic understanding of revelation as outlined in Vatican II’s constitution Dei Verbum; use of basic learning resources and skills

PM 102 – Foundations for the Study of Scripture

Further work on Dei Verbum to look at Catholic approaches to the study of scripture. Examples of Biblical exegesis; training in the use of resources for the study of scripture; overview of different ways of studying the scriptures in parish contexts and prayer-based approaches such as lectio divina; Introductory work on use of the scriptures in homiletics.

PM 103 – Foundations of the Sacraments and Liturgy

Basic concepts of sacramental theology; Basis of Catholic liturgy: study of Vatican II’s constitution Sacrosanctum Concilium; study of infant baptism and confirmation; Liturgy of the Hours.  

PM 104 – Foundations of Philosophy and Moral Theology

Study of the human person, use of reason, doctrine of Creation; Catholic concept of Natural Law; application to specific moral issues relating to sexuality, procreation and the sanctity of human life; fundamental concepts in Catholic social teaching

PM 105 – The Diaconate in the context of the threefold ministry

The sacrament of Holy Order; study of teaching and issues surrounding the ministry of the deacon; basic teaching about the priesthood and episcopacy; the ministry of the pope as universal pastor.

PM 106 – Foundations of Religious Studies

Catholic teaching about ecumenism and the ways in which it has developed; Catholic teachings on relations with adherents of other faiths.