This course offers a unique perspective on theology, focusing on the context of Pasifika peoples and communities. It aims to discern how theology is practised contextually in the Pacific region, influenced by these unique perspectives. It draws on the research of Pacific theologians to explore Pacific concepts, stories, and socio-politico-economic structures, while the students will also experience life in a Pacific community, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration.
This paper will also examine the significance of the Christian faith in the Pacific and explore nuanced interpretations of Scripture through the orthodox and Pasifika hermeneutical lens. The understanding developed will provide a foundation for understanding Moana Pasifika theology based on biblical interpretations, theological reflections, and religious practices.
About this paper
| Paper title | Special Topic: Moana Pasifika Theology (Advanced) |
|---|---|
| Subject | Christian Thought and History |
| EFTS | 0.1500 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2026 (Distance learning) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,103.10 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- 18 200-level points
- Restriction
- CHTH 237
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Theology
- Eligibility
Students taking the paper will be expected to have completed at least one paper at tertiary level.
- Contact
- Teaching staff
- Dr Terry Pouono
- Paper Structure
The paper consists of four modules:
- An Introduction to Moana Pasifika History and Culture prior to European contact.
- The Framework of Moana Pasifika Theological Thinking: Atua, Moana, Fanua, and Tagata.
- Engaging Scriptures with the Moana Pasifika.
- Faith and Theology in the Church Malaga (‘Journey’).
- Teaching Arrangements
In 2025 this paper was taught
- On Distance, with the teaching in a one week intensive in Auckland from February 9-13, 2025 with assignments throughout semester 1.
- On Campus, with a two-hour class for each week of the Semester.
- Textbooks
There will be a course book and essential readings will be available on Blackboard.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
Global Perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Life-long Learning, Information Literacy and Research, Environmental Literacy, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural Understanding
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.- Learning Outcomes
Students who complete the paper will be able to:
- Demonstrate familiarity with Moana Pasifika history and culture.
- Demonstrate understanding of the distinct insight and interpretation of Christian Scripture generated by Moana Pasifika knowledge and ways of understanding.
- Identify and analyse the connection between Atua, Moana, Fanua, and Tagata in Moana Pasifika theological understanding.
- Understand the key role played by the Christian church in the life of Moana Pasifika communities.
- Appreciate the nature and significance of the Talanoa methodology in Moana Pasifika theology.
- Critically engage with the distinct methods and theories of a range of Moana Pasifika theologies.