Theology Department
	The study of theology is fundamental to the growth of all men. It is a study that should not cease at the end of high school or college, rather it should cease at death. The study of theology is properly the study of God. Ultimately it is the highest pursuit of the Truth, as God is Truth. It is the attempt to come to know Him who is the origin of all that is. Theology is therefore indispensable to the educational development of man.  At Benedictine, we give our young men the tools necessary to begin this lifelong pursuit of the Truth. We begin with a fundamental examination of Catholic catechism, including basic doctrines, morality, prayer and virtue. We move through a thorough examination of the Bible, into an intensive study of morality—looking for absolutes in a relative world. Finally we apply these principles to life beyond school. We look at how to remain faithful in college, how to be good husbands, fathers and citizens, and how to listen to God for that possible calling to the priesthood. To accomplish this we challenge our young men to think, consider, contemplate and discuss what they believe and are learning. We therefore focus on developing skills in logic, philosophy, writing, and reasoning. All of this allows not only sound understanding, but even rational disagreement and development of thought and expression.

	Faculty
	Mr. William J. Doran, IV B.A., Christendom College   James G. Eliasek B.S., Virginia Commonwealth University Mr. Patrick White B.S., Virginia Commonwealth University _____________________________________________________ Chaplains Fr. Adrian Harmening, OSB Fr. James Glass, OSB

	Courses Offered:
	Theology 9 and Theology 9 (Honors) - Fundamental Theology Freshmen are introduced to the formal study of Catholic theology. The point of departure and basis for the course is an examination of the Nicene Creed, a summary of Catholic beliefs. This course gives freshmen an introduction in the following areas of theology: Doctrine, Sacred Scripture (Old Testament and New Testament) and Sacred Tradition, the Holy Trinity, Prayer and Spirituality, Ecclesiology, Church History, Christology, Morality, the Sacraments, the Last Things, and Vocations. Furthermore, this course provides a solid foundation for future theology courses at Benedictine College Preparatory. Credits: 1 Theology 10 and Theology 10 (Honors) – Sacred Scripture Sophomores begin with a study of the major events of Jewish history (Old Testament) leading up to the birth of the Messiah. In the New Testament, students study Jesus, his mission and teachings. Emphasis is placed on the human and divine natures of Christ as they are united in the one divine Person. The history of the Church during the Apostolic Age is also examined. Credits: 1 Theology 11 and Theology 11 (Honors) – Moral and Sacramental Theology The junior course is designed to foster knowledge of how to act in accordance with God’s will. Fundamentally, morality is the relationship between every human act and man’s proper end – God. It is through right action that man achieves true freedom – freedom from sin and ignorance. Theology 11 also provides the student with an in-depth examination of the Church’s seven sacraments. It is through the sacraments of the Church that God’s divine life is dispensed to mankind. Credits: 1 Theology 12: Christian States of Life The most important decision that a young man can make is choosing what his vocation in life will be.  Seniors examine the four Christian states of life:  the single state, the religious life, the priesthood, and married life.  With a thorough knowledge of the four states, seniors are able to prayerfully discern what vocation and missions to which God is calling them.  In the course, emphasis is placed on the importance of living Christian faith on a daily basis.           Credits: 1