The Cross
MT 531 Fundamental Moral Theology 3 credits
Introduction to the basic principles of morality in the Roman Catholic
tradition. Foundational concepts, Christian understanding of ersonhood,
objective morality, and methodologies for moral discernment. Particular
attention to human act, knowledge and freedom, sin and conversion, virtue and character, nature of conscience, natural law, and values and norms for moral decision-making. Focus on code of ethics for pastoral ministry within the context of Roman Catholic priesthood and lay ecclesial ministry.
MT 651 Sexual Ethics 2 credits
Investigation into the ethics of human sexuality in the light of faith. Overview
of the teaching of the Magisterium, insights from Scripture and Tradition,
the nature of sexuality and love, Theology of the Body, and contributions from
the social and health sciences. Particular issues include pre-marital relations,
contraception, abortion, homosexuality, masturbation, and celibacy.
MT 841 Social Ethics 3 credits
Study of the social demands of the Gospel, an introduction to methodological
approaches, Scripture in social issues, overview of Magisterial teachings, social
ethics in a pluralistic society, the history of Catholic social teaching in the last
100 years, and important figures in the struggle for justice. Attention to war
and peace, poverty, racism, ethnocentrism, sexism, religious freedom, and the
environment. Readings from Papal documents, Synods of Bishops, and the
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
MT 851 Bioethics 2 credits
Introduction to the systematic study of the moral dimensions of the life
sciences and health care. Discussion of Magisterial teaching, the history
of bioethics, the nature of disease and health, justice and health care,
and the health care worker-patient relationship (including truth-telling,
confidentiality, and informed consent). Special issues: artificial reproductive
technologies, genetic science, organ transplantation, research, stem cells,
withholding and withdrawing treatment, advance directives, physicianassisted
suicide, and euthanasia.
MT 890 Seminar on Contemporary Moral Theologians 2 credits
An opportunity to explore moral theology more fully and to refine skills in
the practice of moral theology by reviewing the lives and writings of
contemporary theologians. After a brief overview of the history of moral
theology since its inception as a distinct discipline in the 16th century,
we will examine the interests, themes, methods, and conclusions adopted
by select moral theologians since the Second Vatican Council. A seminar
approach will be taken, with emphasis given to the close reading of
principal primary sources.
MT 950 Seminar on the “Option for the Poor” 2 credits
Seminar study of the “preferential option for the poor” which has been
accepted by Catholic social teaching as an essential element in Christian life.
Readings and discussion on the scriptural, theological, moral, psychological,
sociological, and spiritual dimensions of this option.
MT 990 Directed Study 1-3 credits