Lectio Divina
Divine Reading in the Christian Tradition
The Rev. Hans Boersma, PhD
In this four-part course, we will look at the theoretical underpinnings of sacred reading, discuss the actual use of Scripture by patristic and medieval theologians, and provide prompts for you to follow in their footsteps by engaging in the practice of sacred reading.
Course Overview
Lesson 1: Overcoming Spiritual Acrophobia
Lesson 2: Building an Ark of Wisdom
Lesson 3: Praying with Tears
Lesson 4: Choosing the Better Part
First, an introduction
Before you dive into the lessons, take a minute to get acquainted with lectio divina.
Start the course
Lesson 1
Overcoming Spiritual Acrophobia
In this lesson, Fr. Hans Boersma provides a framework for divine reading and introduces the four rungs of lectio divina.
Lesson 2
Building an Ark of Wisdom
In this lesson, Fr. Boersma discusses patristic and medieval theologians' practice of memorizing scripture, focusing on Hugh of St. Victor's "The Mystic Ark."
Lesson 3
Praying with Tears
In this lesson, Fr. Boersma narrows in on oratio (prayer), the third step of lectio divina, through which God confronts our lives with the fruit of meditation.
Lesson 4
Choosing the Better Part
In this final lesson, Fr. Boersma examines the perspectives of patristic and medieval theologians on the relationship between the active life and the contemplative life.
There’s no required reading for this course. But if you want to do a deeper dive, Fr. Boersma offers these recommendations.
Keep reading
Sponsors
A special thank you to Jeremiah and Catie Behling for sponsoring Lectio Divina.
FAQs
Is this course really free?
Yes! Courses like these are provided free by generous donors. If you would like to make a gift to support these and future online courses, you may do so here.
How long will this course be available?
There's also no need to worry about losing access to the material. Because the course is pre-recorded, you can watch the lectures and complete the reading and other assignments at a time that works for you, and you will never be late to class!
Do I need to download any specific programs or technology prior to the beginning of this course?
You will be able to access all of the course materials using a standard web browser on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. The course materials will be provided through The Chapter, and a free Chapter membership is required.
What materials will be provided for the course?
- Full-length video lectures
- Lectio divina reading prompts
- Suggested reading list
- Lesson summaries
- Lecture slides
Can I take this course with a group of people?
Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it. You are welcome to use and share the content of this course with friends and fellow parishioners. We hope that this course will spark fruitful discussions in your group.
Is this course section accredited?
No, this course section is not accredited at Nashotah House or any other institution. However, it is a small taste of the accredited courses taught at Nashotah House. If you are interested in becoming a student at Nashotah House, please contact our Director of Admissions, Fr. Ben Hankinson, at bhankinson@nashotah.edu.
Give
Courses like this are made possible by our donors. Would you consider a gift to support this and future online classes?