Peace Theology and Anabaptist-Mennonite Traditions

Overview Courses

• Philosophy and Ethics of Political Violence: Peace, War, and Terrorism (level 200)

  In this course, students will learn about major ethical and philosophical positions concerning conflict, violence, non-violence, “just war,” and “just peace.” The course works from an interdisciplinary perspective, including methodologies from theology, political science, and philosophy.

• Peace Church Studies: Theology (level 300)

  This course explores concepts of the "Peace Church" and the "Historic Peace Church" from a historical perspective. In class, students will trace and compare the positions of the church traditions that have historically aimed to espouse a theology and ethic of nonviolence. 

• Biblical Perspectives on Peace and Justice (level 300)

  This course focuses on key biblical texts that are often connected with themes of peace and peace theology. Students will analyse with violent stories and texts from the Bible and consider differences between biblical and contemporary concepts of “peace” and “justice.” How can these inspire our thinking today about restorative justice and sustainability?

• The Radical Reformation: Anabaptists and other Minorities (level 300)

  Students will learn about the theological tenets and historical origins of the Anabaptists, and other nonconformist religious minorities that spread around Europe in the sixteenth century. The early years of Anabaptist-Mennonite development will be contextualized in relation to the broader socio-political developments and religious reformations of the era. This course focuses on key biblical texts that are often connected with themes of peace and peace theology. 

• Identity and Emancipation – Practical Ethics in Pastoral Care (level 300)

  The student will be able to explore themes of emancipation, spirituality, religion, liberation, peace, authenticity, and identity as these relate to development of Christian identity in a postmodern world. The course will explore contemporary themes in practical pastoral care, and spiritual development from the vantage points of philosophy, theology, and ethics.