About This Course
Introduction to Liturgical Theology
This three-part mini-course introduces liturgical theology as an approach to understanding God through the experience and practices of Christian worship. Drawing on the work of Gordon Lathrop, Jennifer Wilkins Davidson, and Christopher Ellis, learners will explore how worship generates theological meaning, how congregations participate in theological reflection, and how liturgical practices can be studied critically.
Through video lectures, selected readings, and guided reflection, learners will analyze a Christian worship practice alongside Scripture and broader theological perspectives to explain how worship shapes our understanding of God and Christian life.
Course Components
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2
Lessons
1
Resources
0
Quizzes
0
Assignments
How to Engage with this course
Begin by watching each introductory video, then complete the accompanying readings: Gordon Lathrop's What is Liturgical Theology?; Jennifer Wilkins Davidson's Creation's Groans and Spirit's Sighs; and Christopher Ellis's The Invitation to Liturgical Theology. Use the reading guides to explore key concepts, engage with the discussion questions, and complete the assignments to apply what you've learned to your own worship experiences.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this three-part mini-course, learners will be able to:
- Explain the foundational concepts of liturgical theology, including worship as a source of theological knowledge and the relationship between primary and secondary theology.
- Compare the approaches of Gordon Lathrop, Jennifer Wilkins Davidson, and Christopher Ellis, identifying how each understands the relationship between worship, theological reflection, and congregational participation.
- Apply a four-stage method of liturgical theology to analyze a Christian worship practice, articulate the theological insights it reveals, and evaluate those insights in conversation with scripture and broader Christian theological perspectives.
Your Instructor
Jennifer Davidson
Dr. Jennifer W. Davidson is Professor of Transformative Learning & Assessment at Berkeley School of Theology and a certified professional coach with over twenty years experience in higher education. A former dean and professor of theology and worship, she has mentored learners across diverse cultural and institutional contexts. Jennifer is passionate about creating engaging, dynamic learning experiences that inspire self-discovery and meaningful growth. She earned a PhD from the Graduate Theological Union and is the author of the award-winning book "River of Life, Feast of Grace."
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