Showing results by publisher "Learn25" in Religion & Spirituality

Ten watershed dates forever shaped Israel's history and the development of Jewish and Christian identity. The Old Testament may seem vast and at times overwhelming to even the most dedicated. By grasping the significance of these 10 seminal events, you will better understand your faith and the traditions shared by billions. This unique course is full of gripping tales, though-provoking theology, engaging personal stories, and historical frameworks that make easy recalling and conveying the history of the Old Testament.

The Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi invites you to learn from the Franciscan tradition of living the Gospel. In this inspiring course, you will look at the spiritual writings of St. Francis and his followers as well as how they put their beliefs into practice. Br. William Short's powerful yet accessible lectures deliver you the heart of the treasures from this "little poor man of Assisi".

At the end our lives, we look forward to eternal life. Now you can take a fascinating journey through eschatology, the theology of the Last Things. In these 12 lectures, you will join renowned theologian Dr. Peter Phan in encountering De Novissimis - the "Last Things". You will explore the realities that occur at the end of life (i.e., death and dying) as well as those that occur in the afterlife (i.e., judgment, purgatory, hell, heaven, the resurrection, and the consummation of the world).

Merton first looks at the "Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy," which is, as Merton calls it, a work of supreme faith and the most important document on the liturgy in 1,600 years. He then explored the Vatican II's schemata on the religious life, which eventually culminated in the "Decree on the Adaptation and Renewal of Religious Life." Merton's lectures took place before this document was issued, so you will get a fascinating look at the inner workings of the church.

Since the age of the apostles, great scholars and lay Christians alike have reflected upon the meaning of Scripture, the nature of divinity, the call to discipleship, and countless other topics in our religious tradition. This practice, known as theology, is as important to Christian life today as ever. And yet, theology can sometimes seem remote from the everyday life of faith; too often, we view it as an obscure activity conducted in the ivory towers of academic life.

How do you understand Grace and sin? How are they spiritually connected? In the Western church, the understanding of grace, sin, and God's good creation has been shaped by theologians responding to the challenges specific to their times while using the resources of theology, philosophy, and personal religious experience. With the help of Father Brian McDermott, SJ, you will be able to address these and other questions as well as gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics of God's grace.

St. Augustine of Hippo (354 - 430) is unquestionably one of the most influential figures in Western civilization. This audio course will bring you to the heart of St. Augustine’s works, revealing how his words speak to us across the centuries. According to his rival and contemporary St. Jerome, Augustine “established anew the ancient faith”.

Most people recognize forgiveness as an important value, one for which we should all strive. But even with the best intentions, “just letting it go” can be easier said than done. Now, Humanitas Prize chairman Fr. Frank Desidero answers the central question of how to forgive the past and move into a brighter future.

Other than the Virgin Mary, no woman has so captivated our attention as Mary from Magdala. From her portrayal as a prostitute to speculation that she was Jesus’ wife in popular fiction like The Da Vinci Code, images of Mary have abounded for centuries. These portrayals, however, often have very little basis in truth. In this fascinating audio course from Fr. Raymond F. Collins, you will explore Mary Magdalene in the Gospels, Gnosticism, and popular culture.

In the 21st century, men face technological advances, a relentless pace of living and working, and constant demands on their time and attention. Men are searching for meaning - in their careers, relationships, and society. This inspiring retreat provides a path for nurturing faith and sustaining a truly spiritual approach to life. Men of all ages, cultures, and positions will find tremendous spiritual insight under the guidance of Rev. James Clarke, PhD.

Explore one of the most exciting books of the New Testament with early Christianity expert Sr. Laurie Brink as your guide. In this brilliantly taught Bible study course, you will gain powerful insight into early Christianity, the lives of the disciples, and Christ's mission.

You are probably more familiar with the Book of Revelation that you realize. Revelation directly inspired some of the most famous hymns, including "You Servants of God" and "Battle Hymn of the Republic". Now, you can engage more with this impactful book with the help of an expert guide through this 11-lecture audio series. Your teacher is Professor Bertrand Buby, SM, a leading theologian and author of A Journey through Revelation.

The very word "reformation" is shrouded in conflict, bringing to mind new beginnings, partisan church politics, and the dawn of a modern world vision. Indeed, when you hear it, you probably think of a single event - Martin Luther posting The Ninety-Five Theses on the door of Castle Church in Wittenberg in 1517. The truth, however, is much more nuanced - and interesting - than that. Join award-winning historian, Prof. Christopher M. Bellitto, PhD, in The Reformations, a fascinating journey through Church history.

What is the function of the contemplative in the modern world? This question lies at the root of Thomas Merton’s extended contemplation of Franz Kafka’s dystopian novel, The Castle. Now, you have the rare opportunity to hear Merton - the English professor-turned-monk and a literary genius in his own right - discuss The Castle as a metaphor for the monastic life. Originally recorded in 1967 and newly remastered to enhance your listening experience, this audio set collects four talks on Kafka that Merton delivered during the month of June.

Nearly eight years in the making, Mary: Mirror of God Who Sees, Hears, Cares, and Comes is neither “pious chatter” nor “frilly theology.” It is born, rather, of Fr. Crosby’s serious questions about Mary’s rightful place in Christian faith, his constant grappling with the “So what?” of effective preaching, and his insights into the importance that God desires Mary to have in our lives.

Taught by one of the world’s leading experts on Christian mystics, this stunning course reveals the powerful mysticism that inspired St. Ignatius and the charism he introduced. Your award-winning professor, Boston College’s Fr. Harvey D. Egan, is a Jesuit priest and professor who earned his theology doctorate under Karl Rahner. St. Ignatius the Mystic is the apex of his 50-year scholarly and devotional exploration of Christian mysticism. His 12-lecture audio course will both broaden your mind and elevate your spirit.

Blessed John Duns Scotus, OFM, (1266 - 1308) lived at the height of medieval scholasticism and became one of its premier luminaries. Commended as the Doctor Subtilis (the "Subtle Doctor") for his keen yet nuanced insights, he is rightfully regarded as one of the greatest philosopher-theologians. He influenced a wide range of writers and philosophers from Hopkins to Heidegger, and his thought remains as important as ever.

Perhaps no one had such a great influence on the Roman Catholic Church in the 20th century as Pope John XXIII, who was canonized by Pope Francis on April 27, 2014. Born Angelo Roncalli (1881-1963), he rose from humble beginnings to become a passionate advocate for social justice and world peace. His papacy was marked by compassion, charity, and love. In this course you will join ecclesial expert and Georgetown professor Gerard Mannion in encountering the enduring charisma of Saint John XXIII.

Discover why St. Thérèse of Lisieux is, in the words of Pope Pius X, the “greatest saint of modern times.” When Thérèse Martin died not yet 25 years old in the small town of Lisieux, no one could have predicted that the Catholic Church would honor her as a saint and Doctor of the Church. Join Carmelite spirituality expert Dr. Keith Egan in exploring the life, works, and legacy of this inspiring saint.

If you've ever had questions about Islam, this course is for you. It is impossible to overestimate the influence of Islam, which brings inspiration and meaning to the lives of many millions of people worldwide. At the same time, misunderstandings about Islam abound. Now, in Introduction to Islam, you will explore the full sweep of the religion of Islam.