AP/HUMA 4653 6.0 – Specialized Studies in Religion

Mon/Wed, May 6 - July 29, SU session.

The first half (May to mid June) of this seminar-style course discusses issues and topics in early Christianity -

• Background to Jesus’ mission
• Three forms of early Christianity
• Figures in early Christianity: James, Paul, Mary Mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, Judas, the Gnostics
• The emergence of the Church in the 4th century
• The development of the New Testament

The second half of the course (mid June to end of July) is supervised individualized research. Participants write a paper on a topic of their own choosing from within the western religious tradition, broadly conceived.

There are no classes during the second half of this course. The course director assists in devising a do-able project within the confines of the time allotment, suggests bibliography and provides supervision.

AP/HUMA 3421 3.0 – Intro to the New Testament and Early Christianity

Tues/Thurs, May 7 - June 13, S1 session

An introduction to early Christianity through selected New Testament and related writings. Topics include:

• The Jewish messianic expectation
• Jesus' core message
• Paul's letters
• Three forms of early Christianity
• Early Christian writings not included in the New Testament
• Role of the Roman emperors

This course emphasizes discussions, providing background lectures and videos. Two in-class written assignments.

Barrie lecturing to York University students at Qumran, headquarters of the Dead Sea Scroll community.