Theology Exams

Wise words from a recent comment made by Fr. Tom from Waiting in Joyful Hope in response to students suggesting that a critical analysis essay question might be a good idea on a final exam.

I’m all for making an argument, but theology is a science where the input of someone from 1800 years ago can be just as valid — or even more valid — than that of someone 18 years ago. Unlike physical science, where the theories of the past are mainly curiosities that were replaced a long time ago, theological science must take into account the whole origin and development of a line of thought. Contempt for the past has no place in theology, and so we must humbly get to know what was said and why before we start to jump in.