University of Santo Tomas Institute of Religion

University of Santo Tomas
Institute of Religion
Established 1933
Director Rev. Fr. Winston Ferdinand Roman F. Cabading, STL-MA, OP
Secretary Asst. Prof. Allan A. Basas, SThL-MA
Location Main Building, UST, Sampaloc, Manila
Patron saint Saint Mary Magdalene
Website ustir.jimdo.com

The University of Santo Tomas Institute of Religion, or "UST-IR", is the theology-teaching department of the University of Santo Tomas for the civil sciences.

History

The Institute of Religion of the University of Santo Tomas was established in June 1933 when a reorganization of all Religion classes took place. From the foundation of the University in 1611 up to close of the 19th century, the administration could not see the need of a department specifically dedicated to the task of coordinating the formal and practical religious instruction of the University students. Religion, then, was the very core of the education of the youth within or outside the campus. It was an important part of the curriculum required by the education authorities of the country.[1]

The Institute was organized and headed by the Very Rev. Fr. Francisco del Rio, O.P. in 1933. The task of appointing and forming faculty members teaching Religion as well as the preparation of the curriculum and coordination of the religious projects and activities constituted its basic functions.[1]

After the war, like the University, the Institute resumed full operations.[1]

Presently, the Institute of Religion is entrusted with the responsibility of providing the students with a Catholic education through academic instruction in the different curricular offerings of Theology in the civil faculties and colleges. There are currently five course offerings:

Course Code Title Course Description
THY1
Theology 1
Contextualized Salvation History A study of the fullness of God’s manifestation in the person of Christ as seen through the Sacred Scriptures. This coursed is aimed towards an understanding of Sacred Scriptures so that the student may live by the word of God and may reveal Christ through his conduct.
THY2
Theology 2
Church and Sacraments This course is based on the Dogmatic Constitution of the Church (Lumen gentium). A study of the saving Action of Christ through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the sick, Holy Orders and Matrimony.
PHL5
Theology 3 or
Philosophy 5
Christian Ethics This course deals with the understanding of the meaning of being a Christian. It looks into the Christian concept of the human person and the meaning of freedom and responsibility. It attempts to articulate the lifestyle and attitudes in keeping with the values of Christ and how to be equipped and strengthened to face challenges that confront us. Guided by the reflection of the Church through the ages, anchored on Scriptures and Tradition, it addresses issues on life, sexuality and truth that modern man faces today.
SCL3
Theology 4 or
Sociology 3
The Social Teachings of the Church (Mater at Magistra, Pacem in Terris, Populorum Progressio, Pastoral Constitution on the Church on the Modern World) – A study of the present Filipino life: in the family, in his work, in his social contacts. The Filipino—his outlook on life, his faith. Problems, studying the social and cultural conditions; offering solutions in the light of the teachings of the Church.
SCL9
Theology 5 or
Sociology 9
Marriage and Family The nature and fundamental importance of sexuality. The nature of marriage. Theology of marriage. Parental duties and rights. Limits of parental duties and rights. The family and community. Characteristics of the modern family. Problems of the family in today’s society.

This education is founded in the Scriptures, Church teachings and Thomistic tradition. As an integral element of its mission-vision statement, the Institute of Religion endeavors to form young Christian professionals who are inspired by the values of the Gospel and are committed to bring about meaningful changes in society.[1]

The Institute of Religion is under the Vice-Rector for Religious Affairs (VRRA), working in collaboration with other offices under the VRRA, namely, the Center for Campus Ministry (CCM) and the Office for Community Development (OCD).[1]

See also

References

External links