This biannual learning unit is being organized in 2026-2027
Teacher(s)
Language
French
Main themes
These objectives will be achieved after
- an analysis of a specific question in one of the main fields of the pastoral studies ;
- a presentation of the interdisciplinary dimension with some human sciences ;
- an initiation into the use of the main tools ;
- a presentation of different methods in pastoral theology.
- an analysis of a specific question in one of the main fields of the pastoral studies ;
- a presentation of the interdisciplinary dimension with some human sciences ;
- an initiation into the use of the main tools ;
- a presentation of different methods in pastoral theology.
Learning outcomes
At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to : | |
| 1 | appreciate the importance of human sciences to understand the current world ; |
| 2 | use the main tools in the field ; |
| 3 | achieve a critical correlation between human experiences and theological thought. |
Content
In 2026-2027, the course will focus on “Integral Ecology in the Anthropocene Era: What Challenges for Practical Theology?”.
Three main reasons invite us to consider integral ecology as a major concern for practical theology in the Anthropocene era. The first is the reception of Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015) and apostolic exhortation Laudate Deum (2023), both of which have helped bring the concept of integral ecology to the forefront. These texts call for a genuine ecological conversion and encourage the concrete implementation of the orientations and commitments articulated by major international bodies. The second reason lies in the accelerating pace of environmental and social disruptions observed at both local and global levels. The increasing frequency of droughts, wildfires, floods, and other extreme events points to a worrying deterioration of the situation, making the adoption of sustainable lifestyles and the implementation of profound societal transformations all the more urgent. Finally, a third impetus is provided by the recent document of the International Theological Commission, Caring for Our Common Home: A Responsible and Fraternal Response to the Triune God (2026). Structured in three parts, this text highlights the importance of a Trinitarian foundation for reflecting on the ecological crisis, emphasizes the need for an integral anthropology oriented toward the care of creation, and proposes a number of ethical guidelines for fostering an authentic ecological spirituality. Drawing on experiences from the field and engaging them in dialogue with insights from the human, social, and religious sciences, this course aims to develop a practical-theological reflection on this rich and complex issue, with particular attention to pastoral practices and to the methods specific to the discipline.
Three main reasons invite us to consider integral ecology as a major concern for practical theology in the Anthropocene era. The first is the reception of Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015) and apostolic exhortation Laudate Deum (2023), both of which have helped bring the concept of integral ecology to the forefront. These texts call for a genuine ecological conversion and encourage the concrete implementation of the orientations and commitments articulated by major international bodies. The second reason lies in the accelerating pace of environmental and social disruptions observed at both local and global levels. The increasing frequency of droughts, wildfires, floods, and other extreme events points to a worrying deterioration of the situation, making the adoption of sustainable lifestyles and the implementation of profound societal transformations all the more urgent. Finally, a third impetus is provided by the recent document of the International Theological Commission, Caring for Our Common Home: A Responsible and Fraternal Response to the Triune God (2026). Structured in three parts, this text highlights the importance of a Trinitarian foundation for reflecting on the ecological crisis, emphasizes the need for an integral anthropology oriented toward the care of creation, and proposes a number of ethical guidelines for fostering an authentic ecological spirituality. Drawing on experiences from the field and engaging them in dialogue with insights from the human, social, and religious sciences, this course aims to develop a practical-theological reflection on this rich and complex issue, with particular attention to pastoral practices and to the methods specific to the discipline.
Teaching methods
Teaching will be conducted through lectures providing theoretical foundations, supported by presentations and written materials available on Moodle. Dedicated sessions will encourage interaction among students through peer learning, the analysis of practical situations, and collaborative reflection. Supplementary readings will be provided to support both preparation for and deeper engagement with the course content.
Evaluation methods
Active participation is encouraged. The quality of participation may be considered in the final course mark.
Assessment for this course consists of two components.
First, students are required to submit two written assignments to the secretariat (hard copy) and to send them to the lecturer no later than the first day of the examination session (4 January 2027 for the first examination session; 16 August 2027 for the third examination session).
1. Prepare a personal synthesis paper of 5 pages covering the course as a whole: 5 marks
2. Submit an original 5-page paper on an in-depth topic from the course (based on the work carried out during Sessions 12 and 13). This theological paper should focus on a concrete practice related to integral ecology: 5 marks
Second, students will take part in an oral examination consisting of a discussion based on these two written assignments: 10 marks.
Assessment for this course consists of two components.
First, students are required to submit two written assignments to the secretariat (hard copy) and to send them to the lecturer no later than the first day of the examination session (4 January 2027 for the first examination session; 16 August 2027 for the third examination session).
1. Prepare a personal synthesis paper of 5 pages covering the course as a whole: 5 marks
2. Submit an original 5-page paper on an in-depth topic from the course (based on the work carried out during Sessions 12 and 13). This theological paper should focus on a concrete practice related to integral ecology: 5 marks
Second, students will take part in an oral examination consisting of a discussion based on these two written assignments: 10 marks.
Other information
The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the preparation of these assignments is permitted only for the purpose of revising or improving the presentation and expression of the text. The arguments and ideas developed must be the student’s own. Any use of AI must be explicitly disclosed. Students remain fully accountable for the content of the work they submit and for any irregularities resulting from the use of AI.
Any use of generative AI tools that exceeds the permitted scope may constitute academic misconduct and may give rise to the procedure set out in Articles 107 and following of the General Regulations on Studies and Assessments, potentially resulting in academic penalties.
Any use of generative AI tools that exceeds the permitted scope may constitute academic misconduct and may give rise to the procedure set out in Articles 107 and following of the General Regulations on Studies and Assessments, potentially resulting in academic penalties.
Online resources
All course-related materials, including the bibliography, slides, and other resources, are available on Moodle.
Faculty or entity
