December Examination 2010

Introduction to Liturgical and Sacramental Theology

December 2010
In the exam three questions will appear from the following and you will be requested to answer one.

1 Explain very briefly the following: symbol, rite, mystery, sacrament, kerygma, celebration, anamnesis, epiclesis, sacramentum tantum, ex opere operato, ex opere operantis, and the hylomorphic doctrine (4 each).
2 Describe in detail the different dimensions of a symbol.
3 Give an account of the main aspects of Scholastic thinking on the sacraments, (20) in particular, investigating its concept, res et sacramentum (10). What were the inadequacies of Scholastic sacramental theology? (20)
4 Describe briefly what each of the following expressed about the sacraments: Tertullian, St Augustine of Hippo, St Isidore of Seville, Berenger of Tours, Hugh of St Victor, Peter Lombard, and St Thomas Aquinas (7 each).
5 Consider the relationship between kerygma and sign in the sacraments (26), taking into account the notions of synkatabasis and dabar, and the manner of divine communication (8 each).
6 Explore prophetic symbolic activity, elaborating on its characteristics (9). By using illustrations, show how it is linked with ritual symbolic activity (12). Name the stages in the completion of the prophetic symbolic activity of Jesus (8) and show how this prophetic ministry is prolonged, realised and celebrated by the Church in each of the sacraments (21).
7 The Council of Trent states very assertively that the seven sacraments were instituted by Jesus Christ. In the light of modern scholarship, how can we accept this declaration.
8 Explore the mystery presence, encounter and celebration models of the sacraments. Evaluate each one pointing out its strengths and weaknesses (12 each).