In the Image of GodAdult Catechism Class from St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Ft. Lauderdale Florida followed by the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. In this class, we will reference the book God’s Many-Splendored Image: Theological Anthropology for Christian Formation by Nonna Verna Harrison. What does it mean to be a human being made in the image of God? This book makes the case that the divine image can be seen in not just one or two aspects of human identity but in all of them. The author, a specialist in early Christianity, reveals the light that leading theologians of the early church shed on contemporary discussions of what it means to be human. Each chapter explores a different facet of the divine image and likeness and maps out a path that can lead toward wholeness and holiness. This fresh approach to theological anthropology brings Greek patristic theology to students in a readable fashion.
Archived classes are below. Real Player is required, click here to get it! Conclusion of In the Image of GodIn the final class, Fr. Chris will discuss the conclusion of In the Image of God. We can grasp spiritual realities if we stretch our perceptions.
Chapter 8 - Arts and SciencesIn the eighth class, Fr. Chris will discuss Chapter 8 - Arts and Sciences. Our lives should be lived as a life of perseverance, humility, service to others, wonder, awareness of mystery and holy curiosity about the universal God created.
Chapter 7 - In the Created WorldIn the seventh class, Fr. Spiro will discuss Chapter 7 - In the Created World. In 1st Genesis we read “Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of heaven, over the cattle and over all the Earth.”
Chapter 6 - EmbodimentIn the sixth class, Fr. Chris will discuss Chapter 6 - Embodiment. The human being is to use his or her eyes to look around the natural world and to delight in it’s beauty. All this would lead to knowledge of God.
Chapter 5 - Royal DignityIn the sixth class, Fr. Spiro will discuss Chapter 5 - Royal Dignity. Because everyone is made in the image of God and because this image defines what it means to be human, people are fundamentally equal, regardless of the differences in wealth, education, and social status. The Church preached this countercultural message in the ancient world and still preaches it now.
Chapter 4 - Virtues and HumilityIn the fifth class, Fr. Chris will discuss Chapter 4 - Virtues and Humility. Everyone asks at one time or another in their life, Can I really do good in this world for others? The Good News of Jesus Christ is that human beings can become good and can do good for others, because God will help them.
Chapter 3 - Spiritual PerceptionIn the fourth class, Fr. Spiro will discuss Chapter 3 - Spiritual Perception.
Chapter 2 - God and ChristIn the second class, Fr. Spiro will discuss Chapter 2 - God and Christ. The image names those Godlike characteristics with which we began, such as rationality, free choice, perception and the capacity to develop an excellent character.
Chapter 1 - FreedomIn the second class, we will discuss Chapter 1 - Freedom. Inner freedom is the freedom of mind and heart. It is the ability to reason and make choices without constraint, including choices about the thoughts, emotions, attitudes and drives that fill the inner landscape of oneself.
Introduction - In the Image of GodIn the first Introductory Class, we will set the stage for what promises to be a moving Great Lenten experience for you and our viewers on line. Each week we will delve into, ask and attempt to answer questions that mankind has pondered for centuries. We won’t be doing this alone. With the help of our faith and the Holy Fathers we will find some of the answers we need and possibly even open new vistas in our own spiritual life.
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