This seminar will be led by Dr. James DeMasi.

Is there a distinctively Christian ethics? Often, Christianity is reduced to a simple moral system, and in fact, many who would dismiss religion altogether in the last two centuries would also be careful to preserve what is considered to be a robust moral system in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Famously, Gandhi criticized Christians for ignoring what he considered to be one of the greatest texts ever recorded–Chrsit’s Sermon on the Mount in Matthew’s Gospel. But is this sermon even practical, or is it simply a sentimental ideal? Is it meant to be imitated by all Christians, or is the intended audience simply the spiritual elite?

Primary Reading: Pinckaers, Servais, O.P. The Sources of Christian Ethics. CUA Press. 1995. Selections.

Supplementary Reading: Matthew, Chapters 5-7