Encountering Mark, Matthew, and Luke:
The Synoptic Gospels

featuring video with Fr. Michael Himes, Boston College Professor of Theology, and articles by Philip A. Cunningham, former Executive Director, Boston College's Center for Christian-Jewish Learning

Let the Scriptures enrich your spiritual life! In this course, you will explore the Gospels of Mark, Matthew and Luke. Two weeks will be devoted to each gospel. Articles by Dr. Philip A. Cunningham help participants gain an overview of each gospel's features, learn about its setting, the evangelist who wrote it, and the community for which it was written. Videos featuring Fr. Michael Himes focus on key insights. Then, explore practices to use the gospel in prayer and reflection on your life. No previous experience in Scripture study is necessary.

Course Will Be Offered:
6 week course
Oct. 13 - Nov. 21, 2008 (Web Site opens Oct. 6 and closes Nov. 26.)
Feb. 23 - Apr. 3, 2009 (Web Site opens Feb 16 and closes Apr. 8.)

Special Features

This course includes:

  • a guide for reading the Gospels of Mark, Matthew and Luke by Dr. Philip A. Cunningham
  • bonus articles on the writing of the gospels and research about the historical Jesus
  • a video presentation by Michael J. Himes for each gospel
  • weekly questions for reflection and discussion
  • a "town meeting" forum where you can meet other participants and socialize.
  • Those who actively participate receive an acknowledgement of completion of course.

All C21 Online courses include these features:

  • Participants have access 24 hours/7 days a week to the course's password protected web site.
  • Each participant belongs to a small community for conversation and faith sharing guided by a facilitator.
  • Site is open to participants at least one week before and one week after the course.
  • An orientation in how to navigate the web site is always available.
  • Technical assistance is easy to contact and prompt in returning a message.

Topics

Introductory article: The writing of the Gospels

Week 1: The Suffering Son of Man: Mark's Portrait of Jesus

Week 2: A Closer Reflection on Key Themes in Mark

Week 3: The Living Wisdom of God: Matthew's Portrait of Jesus

Week 4: A Closer Reflection on Key Themes in Matthew

Week 5: The Healing and Reconciling Savior: Luke's Portrait of Jesus

Week 6: A Closer Reflection on Key Themes in Luke

Additional Materials Needed

Although there will be a Bible available on line, you may wish to have a Bible available in hard copy also.

Time Commitment

A participant can expect to spend an average of approximately 4 hours each week. This commitment includes both the assigned reading and interaction online.

Fee: $75

Content Scholars: Dr. Michael J. Himes (video) and Dr. Philip A. Cunningham (text)

Lead Facilitator: tba

Copyright © 2005 Boston College C21 Online. All rights reserved.
140 Commonwealth Ave. Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 · 617-552-4075/(800) 487-1167 · email: c21online@bc.edu