Religion (RE)
Bachelor of Arts
Division of Humanities

J. Lawrence Brasher, Roy D. Wells

The purpose of the study of religion is to introduce the student to the religious heritage of humankind and to challenge the student to think critically and constructively in dialogue with this heritage. An academic understanding of religion is an essential ingredient of a liberal arts education, and thus the faculty of religion teaches a variety of courses in Biblical studies, religious thought, and history of religions to aid students in interpreting the religious dimension of life.

Following the recommendation of the American Association of Theological Schools, we strongly recommend courses in the following areas for preseminarians majoring in religion: English language and literature, history, philosophy, natural sciences, social sciences, and the fine arts.

The study of some foreign language or languages is also recommended, especially for those interested in graduate studies. Greek, Hebrew, and modern languages, particularly German and French, are most useful.

The structure of the religion major and minor is under reconsideration. In the period of transition, the major and minor will be individualized under the direction of Dr. Wells or Dr. Brasher. The requirements listed below offer a model for a major or minor with diversity, and with some advanced work.

Major Requirements

The following courses are required (9 units):

• RE 201
• RE 231, 241 or 292
• two units from RE 205, 215, and 340
• two units from RE 311, 315, and 401
• RE 405 or 415
• one elective unit in RE
• RE 499

Minor Requirements

The following courses are required (5 units):

• RE 201 or 220
• RE 205 or 215
• RE 221, 231, or 292
• one unit (regularly scheduled course) in RE at the 300 level
• one unit (regularly scheduled course) in RE at the 400 level

Courses in Religion

RE 100 Ecospirituality and Environmental Sustainability (1)
An introduction to contemporary ecospirituality and environmental activism with a focus on environmental sustainability in Alabama. This course highlights the growing alliance between spiritual awareness and the environmental movement. Students will read works of ecocentric theologians and scientific literature on the ecology of Alabama, study organized environmental initiatives, and gain perspective from field trips and service-learning. Spring.

RE 201 Introduction to Christianity (1)
An historical-theological introduction to Christianity with special attention to the development of Protestantism. Fall, Spring.

RE 205 Old Testament (1)
A study of the history and literature of the Old Testament. Fall, Spring.

RE 215 New Testament (1)
A study of the history and literature of the New Testament. Fall, Spring.

RE 220 History of Christianity Through the Reformation (1)
A study of the history of the church and representative theological systems through the period of reformation.

RE 221 Religions of the East (1)
An introductory survey of the major religions of the East: Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Islam.

RE 231 Religion and Society (1)
An examination of popular and folk religions–beliefs and practices that exist among the people, apart from and alongside the theological and liturgical forms of mainline religion.

RE 241 Theology and Music (1)
An exploration of the interrelationships between theological concepts and aesthetics, focusing on symbols and images of Christ in classical and contemporary music. (Also listed as MU 241.) Prerequisite: sophomore standing.

RE 280 John Wesley and the People Called Methodists (1)
An examination of Methodism, from its beginnings, to the present. The course will cover the history, doctrine and polity of Methodism. Emphasis is placed on the influence of John Wesley and the effect his theology, life and ministry had on Methodism in particular and society in general. The purpose of the course is to help both Methodists and non-Methodists understand and appreciate the contributions that Methodism has made in the Protestant world. Spring.

RE 311 Christian Ethics (1)
An examination of the implications of Christian faith for contemporary ethical problems. Prerequisite: RE 201, 220, or consent.

RE 315 Contemporary Christian Theology (1)
A survey of the thought of certain leading theologians in the twentieth century. Particular attention is given to Barth, Tillich, and Bonhoeffer. Prerequisite: RE 201, 220, or consent.

RE 320 Religion and the Natural World (1)
An exploration of religious understandings of the natural environment, including such world views as ancient myths, animism, Taoism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Native American traditions, contemporary popular nature worship, and the Judeo-Christian faith. Prerequisite: sophomore standing.

RE 330 Religion in America (1)
An analysis of the impact of religious thought upon the development of American society. This course is taught by members of the faculties of religion and of history (an IC designated course). (Also listed as HI 330.)

RE 340 The Pauline Writings (1)
A critical and theological study of the New Testament letters ascribed to Paul. Prerequisite: RE 215.

RE 370 Special Topics in Biblical Literature (1)
An in-depth examination of a faculty-selected topic in Biblical literature. Focus is on topics such as studies of the Fourth Gospel (John), the Parables of Jesus, or the Pentateuch. With the permission of the religion faculty, students may enroll more than once for credit, provided that the focus of the course is different. Prerequisite: RE 215 or consent.

RE 401 Seminar in Theological Studies (1)
Topic: Recent theological developments: 1963 to present. Prerequisite: RE 201.

RE 405 Seminar in Old Testament (1)
Topic: Prophets. Prerequisite: RE 205.

RE 415 Seminar in New Testament (1)
Topic: Synoptic Gospels. Prerequisite: RE 215.

RE 493 Independent Study (1)

RE 498 Teaching Experience in Religion (1)
Upon invitation, qualified students may register for this course for one term only. They participate in first- and second-year courses as student docents.

RE 499 Senior Project in Religion (1)
A research project, pursued independently or corporately, that brings to bear the student’s accumulated knowledge and skills in the discipline. A paper and oral presentation are required. Students may be required to lead discussion or direct the activities of other members of the project. Prerequisite: senior standing or consent. Interim.