St. THOMAS CHURCH HISTORY

Course Description:

This course delves into the diverse and vibrant history of Christianity in South India, traversing across centuries and exploring the unique traditions, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped its ongoing journey. From the early arrival of Disciple Thomas to the dynamic landscape of present-day denominations, we'll embark on a captivating exploration of India's rich Christian heritage.

Course Objectives:

• Gain a general understanding of the historical development of Christianity in India, from its ancient roots to contemporary expressions.

• Analyze the theological, cultural, and socio-political factors that have influenced the evolution of diverse Christian communities in India.

• Examine key figures and events that have shaped the present landscape of Christianity in the country.

• Appreciate the contributions of various Christian traditions to the Indian social and cultural fabric.

• Develop critical thinking skills for analyzing primary and secondary sources related to Indian Christian history.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Unveiling Early Beginnings:

• Exploring the historical and geographical backdrop of Christianity in India.

• Debunking myths and understanding the legacy of St. Thomas and St. Bartholomew.

• Tracing the interactions between the Indian Church and the Persian Church.

• Examining the socio-political and ecclesial life of early Indian Christians.

Module 2: Navigating Turbulent Waters (St. Thomas Christians till 1896):

• Investigating the impact of Padroado and Propaganda missionary systems.

• Dissecting the dynamics of the Synod of Udayamperur and the Coonan Cross Oath.

• Analyzing the conflicts between Padroado and Propaganda in shaping the trajectory of the St. Thomas Christians.

• Understanding the significance of the Cariattil-Paremmakkal Mission and the partial re-establishment of autonomy.

Module 3: Embracing Renewal and Expansion (Syro-Malabar Church to the Present):

• Witnessing the re-establishment of the hierarchy and its implications for the Syro-Malabar Church.

• Exploring the new vitality brought about by Religious orders and the expansion of missionary activities.

• Analyzing the challenges and triumphs of the North Indian Mission and the pastoral care of migrants.

• Celebrating the rise of the Syro-Malabar Church as a major archiepiscopal Church.

• Engaging in critical reflection on the future challenges and prospects of the Syro-Malabar Church.

Module 4: Charting a Separate Course (Syro-Malankara Church):

• Unveiling the unique history and identity of the Syro-Malankara Church.

Module 5: Latin Christianity in India:

• Tracing the journey of Latin missionary presence from the 13th and 14th centuries.

• Analyzing the impact of figures like Francis Xavier, Robert de Nobili, and John Britto on the expansion of Latin Christianity.

• Understanding the reasons behind the decline of the mission in the 18th century and its subsequent revival in the 19th century.

• Examining the contributions of Constant Lievens and the Chottanagpur mission, as well as missions among Dalits and tribals.

• Exploring the contemporary landscape of the All India Catholic missionary presence and its future challenges and prospects.

Module 6: Diverse Expressions of St. Thomas Christian Heritage:

• Engaging with Christian communities not in communion with Rome, recognizing their contributions and perspectives.

Module 7: Protestant Christianity in India:

• Understanding the arrival and growth of Protestant denominations in India, examining their unique perspectives and contributions.

Essential Readings:

• Firth, C.B., An Introduction to Indian Church History

• Kanjamala Augustine, (Ed.), Integral Mission Dynamics

• Mundadan M., Indian Christians: Search for identity and struggle for autonomy

• Perumalil & Hambye ( Eds.), Christianity in India

Recommended Readings:

• History of Christianity in India (Volumes I –V, CHAI Publications )

• Moraes George, A History of Christianity in India

• Thayyil Thomas, Latin Christians of Kerala

Assessment:

• Class participation and engagement (20%)

• Midterm exam (30%)

• Research paper on a topic of choice related to Christianity in India (30%)

• Final presentation (20%)

Grading Rubric:

• A (90-100%): Exceptional understanding of course material, active participation, high-quality research and presentation.

• B (80-89%): Solid grasp of key concepts and events, engaged participation, well-developed research and presentation.

• C (70-79%): Adequate understanding of course material, consistent participation, satisfactory research and presentation.

• D (60-69%): Incomplete understanding of concepts, limited participation, underdeveloped research and presentation.

• F (Below 60%): Inadequate grasp of course

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Course Description:

This course explores the dynamic history of Christianity from its early stages in the Apostolic era through the vibrant pre-colonial periods in Africa, Asia, and Europe. We'll traverse continents and centuries, unearthing key figures and events that shaped our faith's development. Through critical analysis and diverse perspectives, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Christian communities throughout history, fostering appreciation for God's enduring presence amidst a sometimes-imperfect church.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Articulate the major distinctive characteristics of pre-colonial Christian communities in Africa, Asia, and Europe.

• Evaluate the historical reliability of traditional narratives surrounding early Christianity outside the Western context.

• Analyze the major theological debates and controversies surrounding non-Chalcedonian churches, forming your own informed perspectives.

• Develop critical thinking skills for engaging with complex historical narratives and diverse theological viewpoints.

• Designed to give a broad picture of the story of the Church in the hope that a greater love and appreciation for it be cultivated.

Required Textbooks:

• Fairbairn, Donald. The Global Church: The First Eight Centuries: From Pentecost through the Rise of Islam. Zondervan, 2021.

Recommended Readings:

• Jenkins, Philip. The Lost History of Christianity. HarperCollins, 2008.

• Moffett, Samuel H. A History of Christianity in Asia: Volume 1. Orbis Books, 1992.

• Oden, Thomas C. How Africa Shaped the Christian Mind. InterVarsity Press, 2011.

Course Requirements:

• Research Paper: A two page paper, investigating a specific topic related to pre-colonial Christianity in Africa, Asia, or Europe, demonstrating critical thinking and historical research skills.

• Final Presentation: Engaging your peers by presenting your research findings and sparking thoughtful discussion.

Cost:

$99 for the eight week course. Instruction for payment will be given after registration.