The Schwarmgeister: The Development of Ecclesiastical Doctrine Through Schismatic Movements

Throughout the Christian story, Church doctrine and ecclesiology have been shrouded in controversy. From the Council of Nicea in 325, when are early Church fathers debated about the Trinity of Christ all the way to the modern day with Vatican II theological controversies have been important in the molding of Christian doctrine on the structure, role, and function of the Church. What makes those controversies different from the ones I treat in my thesis is that the previously mentioned controversies did not lead to schismatic divisions in the Church. The Donatist controversy and Luther's theological battle with Karlstadt were major movements that endangered the unity of the Church. These controversies propagated crucial writings and teachings in two major areas. The first area is the spiritual power and validity of the sacraments. Second is the role, function, and ecclesiology of the Church, with particular attention to the authority of the ministry. I want to demonstrate that these controversies refined the Church's thinking on sacramental issues such as baptism and Eucharist, as well as address the question of who has the power in the Church? And to what extent do they have the power to press reforms?

From the Hill

Q&A: Desiree Shayer '12, studying in Amman, Jordan, talks about presenting her research, Jan Plan in Israel, and witnessing one part of the Middle East revolution A Natural Writer: With carefully chosen words, Blair Braverman '11 sets out to raise environmental awareness Sixty Years, One Musical Language: Colbyettes from across generations compare notes, sing again The Whole Truth: Foreign correspondent Gerry Hadden tells the stories behind his radio reports from Latin America and Haiti Writing the Final Chapter Kennebec Highlands Vista Handwriting on the Wall To Timbuktu--and Back: Steven Weinberg and Casey Scieszka turn exploration into a charming and informative collaboration Turning Experience Into Success Ultimate Goes National Family Matters: Women's lacrosse coach Karen MacCrate Henning ties success to team unity, unselfishness One Fast Mule Sports Shorts