Asbury Scholar Teaches Travel Course in Italy and Greece

April 4, 2023

In March, professor of theology Dr. Brian Shelton ’89 traveled to Italy and Greece to teach a humanities course for Rome With Purpose, an organization that provides a Christian study abroad experience for U.S. university students.

“By learning in the classroom and in the field, students gained knowledge about the ‘History of Western Thought,’ a course which integrated music, art, theology, philosophy, literature and history,” Shelton said. “For example, art reflects religious values, so this course focused on the integration of media and theology throughout various eras to help students grow in their Christian worldview.”

Shelton led the group of students through Rome and Athens, visiting churches, cathedrals, museums and outdoor historical spaces.

“Among other sites, students encountered Plato’s Academy, Mars Hill, and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City,” Shelton said. “Subjects come to life when students can experience and imagine historic events on-location while learning about biblical figures such as Paul the Apostle.”

For Asbury University students interested in traveling to Italy and fulfilling their TH 250: Foundations of Christian Thought class requirement, Shelton recommends the Christian Studies & Philosophy two-week study tour in May of 2024. Additional opportunities to study abroad include the Paris Semester, the Oxford Summer Programme, the Jerusalem University College semester, and others: https://www.asbury.edu/academics/global-initiatives-programs/.

Shelton encourages Asbury students to further their studies in Christian Studies & Philosophy.

“The Kingdom of God seeks people who are willing to give special study of matters of the faith for the sake of the Church,” he said. “Bible and theology direct study to the revelation of God and how it is appropriated for the Church.”

The Asbury University Christian Studies & Philosophy Department offers seven majors and six minors for traditional undergraduate students, including youth ministry, Bible-theology, intercultural studies, and pastoral ministries. The Online program offers a major in leadership and ministry: https://www.asbury.edu/academics/degrees/online/leadership-ministry/.

Shelton serves as the professor of theology, department chair, and Wesley scholar in residence at Asbury University. As an Asbury alumnus, he received his M.Div. from Covenant Theological Seminary and his Ph.D. in historical theology from Saint Louis University. His areas of interest include the early church in Rome, patristic exegesis, martyrdom, and Italian religious history. Learn more about his research and trips: https://www.asbury.edu/about/directory/brian-shelton/.