A History of Early Christianity

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Course code: S9SR

An overview of the first centuries of Christianity set firmly in the historical context.

when: From 13 Jan 2027 to 10 Feb 2027
Wednesday 13:00-15:00 5 weeks
Tutor: Richard Stride

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £84.00, concession fee £51.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

How did Christianity rise from being a small eastern cult to dominate the Roman Empire and medieval Europe?

What can students expect?

Setting the origins of Christianity firmly into its Historical context this course will use a range of sources to shed light on the appeal of the religion and why it was popular. Then we will look at its relationship with the Roman world and how it eventually over-turned the ancient pagan belief system and grew to dominate Europe. Along the way we will ask whether the spiritual message of the religion changed through time, and, if so, what aspects stayed the same and why did some aspects transform the way that they did? How did the Bible come to be constructed in the way that we know today?

Late starters allowed?

Yes

Previous experience required?

No

What is the progression route?

I run a range of courses on the ancient world at Stoke Lodge. My courses on ‘Alexander the Great’ and ‘The Successors’ will both be relevant to this course as they provide the historical context which Christ was born into.

Are there any extra costs?

No

Work set between sessions?

No

Teaching method/style?

I describe my style as ‘informal lecture’. I aim to use pictures wherever possible, and I welcome interruptions, questions and digressions.

Course Cancellations and Refunds

If we cancel your course

<ul>
<li>You will receive a full refund of course fees.</li>
<li>We are not responsible for any additional costs, such as materials already purchased.</li>
</ul>

If you cancel

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: refund minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no refund provided.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
</ul>

Refund processing

<ul>
<li>Refunds for online or telephone enrolments will be made via the original payment method within 14 days of approval. </li>
<li>If you enrolled in the office, you will need to come in with your payment card to arrange a refund.</li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: transfer minus a 10% transfer fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no transfer provided.</li>
<li>All transfers are subject to availability.</li>
<li>Transfers between Language levels may be possible with less than 7 days notice, subject to availability.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
<li>If we cancel your course, and you wish to transfer to another course this will be free of charge.</li>
</ul>

Illness and non-attendance

<ul>
<li>We recognise that illness and unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, please note that we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or transfers for missed sessions due to ill health or non-attendance.</li>
</ul>