Study

Why study theology?

There are three basic reasons to study more about the Catholic faith: 
Love, Laud, and Life.

 

Knowledge of God and His Church is essential for building a relationship with Him. If you love someone, you want to get to know him. The same goes for our relationship with God. As we grow in love for the Lord, we will want to grow in knowledge as well. The more we fall in love with our Creator, the more we want to know Him.

Theology fuels our worship. If we don't know the Bible or theology well, then we cannot fully appreciate its beauty. When Christ is lifted up on the Cross, His work of redemption and reconciliation calls forth high praise. The more fully we know the beauty of His sacrifice, the more full we praise Him. 

Bad theology leads to bad living. Without knowledge of our faith, we will inevitably fail to live up to it. What we believe influences how we live. If we do not understand our faith, how can we live it to the fullest?

It's never too late to begin studying theology. And, since God is infinite, and we are merely finite creatures, there is always more to learn. Let's strive to learn more about God every day of our lives, so we may love Him, praise Him, and live for Him. 

Pontifical Paul VI Institute
The Archdiocese of St. Louis offers an excellent resource for learning about all aspects of the Church. The Pontifical Paul VI Catechetical and Pastoral Institute provides college-level continuing education and formation in Catholic doctrine, Sacred Scripture, liturgy, morality, spirituality, pastoral theology and catechetical methodology for adults. Classes are offered live or online. Each class is 2 credit hours and lasts 10 weeks. There are three sessions each year: spring, summer, and fall. Sign up early to ensure you get into the class of your choice. To learn more, follow the link above.

New Advent
You can read the Summa, Church Fathers, and the Catholic Encyclopedia.

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
The St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology is a non-profit research and educational institute that promotes life-transforming Scripture study in the Catholic tradition. The Center serves clergy and laity, students and scholars, with research and study tools — from books and publications to multimedia and online programming.

Catholic Treasury Library
Spiritual Classics available online, including works by St. Augustine, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. John of the Cross, St. Teresa of Avila, and more.

Institute of Catholic Culture - Theology Library