Rhythms of Faith

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Rhythms of Faith (RoF) is an innovative theology course for undergraduates at the University of Notre Dame. Whereas many theology courses invite engagement with theological ideas through critical essay-writing, students in RoF will be trained to grapple with liturgy and music through the creative process, i.e., by working with classmates to produce new works of art: texts and songs designed to be sung in community. By drawing on the centuries-old tradition of singing Psalms and Canticles, RoF will equip students with the conceptual framework for bringing their own experiences, ideas, and diverse musical backgrounds into creative conversation with liturgy and prayer. This class is for anyone, regardless of their musical training or proclivity–the requisite singing and song-writing skills will be taught throughout the course. Completing the group projects in RoF will allow students to experience first-hand the process of integrating their intellectual knowledge of religion with embodied practice. Through this community-based creative process, students can experience the transformation of growing into a community of trust–one of vulnerability, interdependence, love, and celebration–and as a result, growing to constructively engage their faith with their whole selves for a lifetime ahead.