THEO2410 Reformation to Fragmentation: Church History from 1500 CE

This topic, concerning church history from 1500 to the present day, will introduce students to the key events, people and debates of the Reformation, Counter Reformation, and Dissenting movements; trace Christianity's expansion from Europe and North America to the wider globe, particularly as a result of the modern missions movement; explore the history of Christianity in Australia and the Pacific; and consider the implications of these for Christians and church communities in Australia today.

This topic aims to:

• Introduce students to the key figures, issues, debates and features of the Reformation, Counter Reformation and Dissenting movements
• Trace the expansion of Christianity from Europe to North America, and mindful of the work of the modern missions movement, examine the twentieth century shift in the centre of gravity of the world church to the global south
• Explore the history of Christianity in Australia and the Pacific
• Consider the global and local lessons contained within this period of history for Christians and church communities in Australia today

1. Examine key features of the Reformation, Counter Reformation, or Dissenting period
2. Discuss the factors for and implications of a shift in the centre of gravity of the world church
3. Describe key features of the story of Christianity in Australia/the Pacific from colonial times
4. Discuss the lessons of history for contemporary Christian and church communities in Australia today
5. Communicate via written and verbal means understanding and insight gained