AMAIC Syllabus

Interim Syllabus and Curriculum for
The Australian Marian Academyof the Immaculate Conception

Introduction

In the following pages we shall provide, for those interested - in relation to those broad areas of subject classification listed in §5 of the AMAIC’s Manifesto (viz., Spirituality; Philosophy; Catholic Education; and Biblical Studies) - a curriculum and study guide, complete with a bibliography, in whatever aspects of these particular subject areas AMAIC members have found, over the years, to be particularly important, helpful and interesting.

Various essay topics will be suggested for each of the separate subject areas.

We encourage anyone who feels capable of doing so to participate. A mark will be accorded to any serious attempt based on standard ratings (Fail, Pass, Credit, Distinction). Any outstanding efforts will be favourably noted in our Newsletter, MATRIX (‘Mater et Mediatrix’), and also quoted from and advertised on the relevant AMAIC Internet site.

Should there be a singularly brilliant effort, one that contributes significantly towards an important advancement in learning and knowledge - originality being a sine qua non - then it will be awarded the AMAIC’s Goldensword. (See section. "The Goldensword Award").

Quest For The Goldensword

In this way we hope to build up a body of Wisdom-based ideas and writings that will be used to shape future courses. We do not intend though at this stage to duplicate courses and degrees that are already being taught in pontifical and other Catholic universities. Whilst we do encourage members to take any such courses that are sound, according to circumstances, our Syllabus will be supplementary to these. That will serve greatly to streamline our efforts.

At this interim stage, in fact, we are not so much interested in offering courses, but, rather, suggesting stimulating projects, or, for mature contributors, manageable theses.

Syllabus and Curriculum

Pre-requisites. The AMAIC greatly encourages, as desirable prerequisites - and of course according to a candidate’s opportunities and circumstances - a familiarity with:

(i) the Old and New Testaments, as in the spirit of Vatican II;(ii) The Catechism of the Catholic Church; (iii) St. Louis de Montfort’s True Devotion to Mary/Secret of Mary & Love of Eternal Wisdom/Friends of the Cross;(iv) the Fatima series of apparitions;(v) the VATICAN, AMAIC, ZENIT & EWTN Internet sites (and the ability to use the Internet in general);(vi) some knowledge of ancient Hebrew, esp. in relation to (i).

There now follow the AMAIC’s currently envisaged essay or thesis projects for each of the four main subject divisions:

1. Spirituality {Jesus Christ as Saviour}

This is a broad term, covering e.g. Theology, Christology, Mariology (Fatima), devotion and piety, Church and papal documents, Vatican II, apologetics, etc. The AMAIC would also be interested in suggestions regarding a sublime art, music and poetry for the future Marian age.

For an idea of the range of topics, please consult:http://users.pipeline.com.au/~rossj/index.htmhttp://members.iinet.net.au/~raphael/index.htmlhttp://australianmarianacademy.blog.com/

AMAIC explanation: Candidates’ contributions will need to conform to the spirit of the AMAIC, which is Church-based. So contributions contrary to this basis, no matter how ingeniously argued, will be rejected. That rejection includes favourable discussions of apparitions and private revelations that are not approved (or, worse, are condemned) by the Church. Before embarking upon any substantial project, please consult the AMAIC for guidelines.

There is no specified limit to the word-length of any essay or thesis. Though examiners will not persevere with irrelevant and boring efforts.

Areas of Special Interest (Essay or Thesis Topics)and Suggested Bibliography· Knowing Christ. Who is Jesus Christ? The Consciousness of Christ.The Holy Bible’s New Testament.Catechism of the Catholic Church, e.g. Pt. One, Section Two, Ch. 2.John Paul II, Encyclical Redemptor Hominis (1979).Benedict XVI, Encyclical Spe Salvi (2007).St. Bonaventure, De Scientia Christi (“On the Knowledge of Christ”).Neubert, Fr. E, My Ideal. Jesus Son of Mary, Maryhurst Press, 1963.Most, Fr. W, The Consciousness of Christ, Christendom, 1980.Wenham, J, Christ and the Bible, Inter-Varsity Press, 1984.

Wright, J, Knowing Jesus through the Old Testament,Monarch Books, 1992. Foster, C, The Jesus Inquest, Monarch Books, Grand Rapids, 2006.Ward, Bro. J, “Did Christ Have Faith?” See: http://australianmarianacademy.blog.com/ (post for February 09, 2008)· The Science of the Wisdom of the Holy Cross.De Montfort, St. Louis, The Wisdom of the Cross; and The Love of Eternal Wisdom.St. Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein), The Science of the Cross.AMAIC’s “Reflections on the Constitution”. These can be found at:http://australianmarianacademy.blog.com/ (posts for January 29; February 18, 2008)· The Divine MercyPius XII, Encyclical Haurietais Aquas (“On Devotion to the Sacred Heart”) (1956).John Paul II, Encyclical Dives in Misericordia (1980).Benedict XVI, Encyclical Deus Caritas Est (2005).Kowalska, St. F, The Divine Mercy in My Soul: Diary; Sr. Faustina’s Novena to the Divine Mercy.Miravalle, M, ed., Contemporary Insights on a Fifth Marian Dogma (Vox Populi Mariae Mediatrici), Queenship Publishing, 2000.· Jesus Christ as Head of the Mystical Body. Mary at the Foot of the Cross, ‘Standing In’ for Sinners.Pius XII, Encyclical Mystici Corporis Christi (1943).Pius XII, Encyclical Munificentissimus Deus (1950).John Paul II, Encyclical Redemptor Hominis (1979).John Paul II, Encyclical, Redemptoris Mater (1987).Albers, F, Bound to the Virgin, Neptune Press, 1982.AMAIC’S Marian Doctrine: This can be found at:http://australianmarianacademy.blog.com/ (posts for January 29; February 18, 2008)· Knowledge of Mary. Her Relationship to the Most Holy Trinity & Church. The Immaculate Conception and her other Privileges and Prerogatives. (Defence of Mary’s Privileges).Leo XIII, Aeterni Patris (1879).Vatican II’s Document on the Church, Lumen Gentium.John Paul II, Encyclical, Redemptoris Mater (1987).Maritain, J, St. Thomas Aquinas, Sheed & Ward, London, 1948. See pp. 91-92, n. 1.De Montfort, St. Louis, The Secret of Mary; True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.Duff, F, The Woman of Genesis, Praedicanda Press, Dublin, 1976.“St. Kolbe’s Trinitarian Mariology” (Taken from Fr. L. Faccenda’s Saint Maximilian’s Contribution to the Intellectual Ministry of the [OFM] Order, Roma 2005). See http://australianmarianacademy.blog.com/ (post for 10 March 2008)Calkins, Fr. A, “Our Lady’s Vow of Virginity”, AMI Press, 1993.See also: http://www.airmaria.com/?p=18· The Secret of Mary and the Holy Rosary/Scapular.Pope Paul VI, Exhortation Marialis Cultus (1974).John Paul II, Encyclical Redemptoris Mater (1987).John Paul II, Apostolic Letter, Rosarium Virginis Mariae (2002).De Montfort, St. Louis, The Secret of the Rosary.Liguori, St. Alphonsus, The Glories of Mary, Liguori Publications.Neubert, Fr. E, Life of Union with Mary, The Bruce Publishing Co., 1962. Ward, Bro J, (Rosary Poems): “The Seven Sorrows of Our Lady”, “The Rosary in Poetry & Art” (2005).See also http://australianmarianacademy.blog.com/ (posts for Thursday March 06 [one to follow] 2008)Hahn, S, Hail, Holy Queen: The Mother of God in the Word of God, 2006.Papali, C, Mother of God: Mary in Scripture and tradition, Augustine, 1987.

· The Biblical Basis of Approved Marian Apparitions/Sacramentals. Refutation of False Apparitions.Pius XII, Encyclical, Our Lady of Lourdes (“Le Pèlerinage de Lourdes”) (1957).Vatican Crackdown on Divine Innocence Community.Albers, F, Medjugorje and the Flow of Grace; also Calneggia, F, Medjugorje: Separating Fact From Fiction. At, respectively:http://members.iinet.net.au/~raphael/medjflow.htmlhttp://users.pipeline.com.au/~rossj/CFM_Publications.htmBartholomew, Prof. C, “The Ultimate Message of Fatima”, Immaculate Heart Messenger (Oct-Dec, 2007), pp. 11-14. (also the World Apostolate of Fatima’s comparisons between Esther & Fatima).Mackey, D, The Five First Saturdays, Call for Mary, Sydney 1994. (This book can now be read at: http://amaic2.blog.com/ ).· Explaining the Fulfilment of Biblical and Marian Prophecy (Revelation; Don Bosco; 3rd Secret of Fatima).Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, “The Message of Fatima” (Explanation of the 3rd Fatima Secret), May 2000:http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20000626_message-fatima_en.htmlmessage-fatima_en.htmlHahn, S. The Lamb’s Supper: The Mass as Heaven on Earth, Doubleday, 1999.Hahn, S. The End: The Book of Revelation, Parousia Press.Hahn, S, “The Fourth Cup”. See e.g:http://webpages.marshall.edu/~trimbol3/4thcup4.htm· Vatican II and the ‘Novus Ordo Missae’. The Significance of the Second Vatican Council for our Era. Its Marian-Ness.Vatican II’s The Church in the Modern World.John Paul II, Letter, Tertio Millennio Adveniente (1994).Most, Fr. W, Vatican II, Marian Council.Albers, F. In Defence of the Novus Ordo Missae; also Vatican II, 2000: http://members.iinet.net.au/~raphael/vatican2.pdf.Hahn, S, The Four Marks of the Church, 4 CD Set, Parousia Press.Harrison, Fr. B, “Vatican II and Religious Liberty: Contradiction or Continuity?” See:http://www.catholic.net/rcc/Periodicals/Dossier/00MarApr/continuity.htmlHarrison, Fr. B, “The Center is Holding” See:http://www.rtforum.org/lt/lt44.html· The Significance of the Structure (chiastic or otherwise) of the Bible’s Books. (Also relevant to Biblical section).Ellis, P, The Genius of John, Collegeville, 1984.Albers, F, The Marian Dimension in the Gospel of St. John. See:http://users.pipeline.com.au/~rossj/Book_List.htmMackey, D, Tracing the Hand of Moses in Genesis, see “AMAIC Historical-Biblical Articles”: http://houseofgold.blog.com/ (post for March 03, 2008), section 4.AMAIC’s “The Toledoth in Matthew 1:1” (also relevant for BIBLICAL section), see http://houseofgold.blog.com/ (post for February 25, 2008).Hahn, S, The Gospel of Mark, 5 CD Set, Parousia Press.Sadler, B, According to Matthew. The Structure Saint Matthew Gave His Gospel, Sydney, 2008.· Art, Music, Liturgy.Vatican II’s Sacrosanctum Concilium (1963). Sacramentum Caritatis.Examples of a potential Goldensword:

- showing, in an original fashion, the biblical foundation of a particular (Approved) marian apparition or revelation. e.g. it is claimed that our lady of fatima’s star relates to esther (meaning ‘star’). [is this accurate? or does the star have a different meaning (e.g. our lady’s coming from the east)? professor a. yahuda has claimed, for instance, that “esther” is just the persian version of “hadassah”, the heroine’s jewish name, meaning ‘myrtle’ (not ‘star’)].

- the singular importance of vatican council ii for the modern era. what the future may hold.

- a convincing piece of apologetics or defence of the catholic faith, e.g. re the knowledge of christ. ‘contending against error’ (pope leo xiii).

- a compelling account of the significance for our time of e.g. don bosco’s dream, or the 3rd secret of fatima.

- revealing the true structure of a new testament book.- a sublime piece of religious poetry, or art.Examples of past efforts that would have qualified for a Goldensword:

- john paul ii’s introduction of the five illuminative mysteries of the most holy rosary. also mary as mediatrix at the wedding feast of cana, in redemptoris mater.

- the vox populi movement’s identification of the likely spiritual catalyst for the coming triumph of the immaculate heart of mary and the divine mercy.

- Scott hahn’s important explanation of the ‘fourth Cup’. See: http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/1991/9109fea12. Philosophy {Jesus Christ as Truth}

Of special interest will be the relationship between Faith and Reason; and also the study of the Philosophy of Science. Whilst the AMAIC leaves it to other academic institutions to teach the various scientific disciplines, it is interested in key scientific issues that affect Faith and reason - as well as Cosmology - such as Evolution(ism) [v Creationism], Heliocentrism [v Geocentrism].

For an idea of the range of topics, please consult previously mentioned sites, plus:http://brightmorningstar.blog.com/

AMAIC explanation: Whilst the basis for AMAIC Philosophy is the perennial philosophy of ‘being’, especially as elaborated by the Angelic Doctor, St. Thomas Aquinas, candidates are encouraged to explore other original contributions to philosophy, aspects of which recent popes, for instance, have shown to be tremendously useful and relevant for our era. For example, phenomenology as explained by John Paul II (Karol Wojtyla) and the Lublin School of Thomism, and its relationship to ethics and the dignity of the human person. Also, the wide-ranging philosophical contribution of Fr. Antonio Rosmini, beatified in November 2007. The AMAIC has also gained great benefit from the writings on the philosophy of modern science, and opposing scientism, by Gavin Ardley and Wolfgang Smith, philosopher-scientists.

Areas of Special Interest (essay or thesis topics)and Suggested Bibliography

The relationship between Faith and Reason.

St. Thomas Aquinas, Summa Contra Gentiles; Summa Theologiae.Olgiati, F, The Soul of Thomism (trans. J. Zybura), Aquinas Academy, Sydney.John Paul II, Encyclical Fides et Ratio (1998).John Paul II, Apostolic Letter, Master in the Faith (St. John of the Cross) (1990).McCarthy, Mons J, The Science of Historical Theology, The Forum Library, Roma, 1976.

The Perennial Philosophy.

Leo XIII, Encyclical Aeterni Patris (1879).John Paul II, Encyclical Fides et Ratio (1998).St. Thomas Aquinas, Summa Contra Gentiles; Summa Theologiae.Rosmini, A, The Five Wounds of the Church (“Le cinque piaghe …, 1883).Maritain, J, St. Thomas Aquinas, Sheed & Ward, London, 1948.Albers, F, The Foundations of Our Catholic Faith, Neptune, 1981.

The Philosophy of Science.

Ardley, G, Aquinas and Kant, Longmans, Green & Co, London, 1950; also Berkeley’s Renovation of Philosophy, Martinus Nijhoff, 1968; also “Philosophy of Science: Dualist or Integral?”; also “Philosophies of Appearance and Reality”.Smith, W, Cosmos and Transcendence, 1984; The Quantum Enigma, 2005.Eddington, A, The Nature of the Physical World, Macmillian, 1935.Albers, F, “… Pope Pius XII and Science”, Towards a Catholic Science Course.AMAIC Philosophy of Science textbook (currently being written).

Refutation of Philosophically-based Systems Inimical to Thomism: e.g., Evolutionism, Teilhardism, Scientism.

Leo XIII, Aeterni Patris (1879).Pius X, St, Encyclical Pascendi Dominici Gregis (1907). Pius XII, Encyclical, Humani Generis (1950). Ward, J, 3-part series, “Can We Trust These Men?” on Carl Jung; Teilhard de Chardin and Karl Rahner. See http://brightmorningstar.blog.com/ (post 22 January 2008). Ward, Bro J, “Did Darwin Bequeathe Evolution's Epitath?” See http://brightmorningstar.blog.com/ (post 09 February, 2008). Smith, W, Teilhardism and the New Religion, 1988.Professor M. Giertych series of letters against Evolution, see:http://brightmorningstar.blog.com/ (post 22 January 2008).

Jesus Christ as the Metaphysican ‘Par Excellence’. A Challenge to the Traditional Greco-Roman-Based View of the Evolution of Philosophy.

John Paul II, Apostolic Letter Orientale Lumen (“The Light of the East” (1995).St. Bonaventure, De Scientia Christi (“On the Knowledge of Christ”).Maritain, J, St. Thomas Aquinas, Sheed & Ward, 1948, Ch. II, “The Wise Architect”.Mackey, D, The Lost Cultural Foundations of Western [and of Eastern] Civilisation, see:“AMAIC Historical-Biblical Articles”: http://houseofgold.blog.com/ (post for March 03, 2008), section 5.

Lublin Thomism. Phenomenonology. Dignity of the Human Person.

John Paul II, The Acting Person, Reidel, 1979.John Paul II, Apostolic Letter, Mulieris Dignitatem (“On the Dignity of Women”) (1988).John Paul II, Encyclical, Evangelium Vitae (“The Gospel of Life”) (1995).Krapiek, M, Understanding Philosophy, 2007. See:www.hyoomik.com/lublin/lublinism.htmlhttp://www.hyoomik.com/lublin/understanding_philosophy.htmlKrapiek, M, The Person and Society, Pont. Uni. San Tomasso, Roma.

Evolutionism v Creationism; Heliocentric v Geocentric Cosmology.

John Paul II’s “Message to the Pontifical Academy of Sciences: on Evolution”, Oct 1996.Smith, W, The Wisdom of Ancient Cosmology: Contemporary Science in Light of Tradition. See e.g:http://tcrnews.blogspot.com/2007/12/wisdom-of-ancient-cosmology.htmlSmith, W, “The Status of Geocentrism”. A chapter in The Wisdom of Ancient Cosmology.Smith, W, Demythologizing Modern Science. See:http://www.amazon.com/The-Wisdom-of-Ancient-Cosmology/dp/0962998478Albers, F, Critique of Ardley’s Local Motion, see http://brightmorningstar.blog.com/ (post 22 January 2008). Haigh, P, Proofs for the Existence of God and Creation: A Catholic View. See:http://www.creationism.org/csshs/v12n4p10.htmWood, F & K, Homer’s Secret Iliad: The Epic of the Night Skies Decoded, 1999.

Towards a Balanced Examination of the Galileo Case and its Significance.

John Paul II, “Lessons of the Galileo Case,” Address to the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, October 31, 1992.John Paul II, Encyclical Fides et Ratio (1998), esp. §34, n. 29.Albers, F. Galileo Galilei, Neptune, 1982.Koestler, A, The Sleepwalkers:A History of Man’s Changing Vision of the Universe, Arkana, 1959.Ardley, G, “The Cartesian Projection”.Haigh, P, Galileo’s Empiricism -- and Beyond, 1992. See:http://www.ldolphin.org/geocentricity/Haigh.pdfSmith, W, Smith, W, The Wisdom of Ancient Cosmology: Contemporary Science in Light of Tradition, Chapter X: “Esoterism and Cosmology”. Carroll, A, Galileo, Catholic Education Resource Center. See://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/history/world/wh0006.htmlSungenis, R, Galileo Was Wrong. The Church Was Right, 2006. See:http://www.galileowaswrong.com/

The Challenge Offered to Conventional Science by the Shroud of Turin and the Image of Our Lady of Guadalupé (and certified miracles in general).

Carroll, W, Our Lady of Guadalupé and the Conquest of Darkness, Christendom Educational Corporation, 1983. Wilson, I, The Blood and the Shroud, Wiedenfeld Nicolson, 1998.Jackson, J, “Is the image of the Shroud due to a process heretofore unknown to modern science”?, Shroud Spectrum International, No. 34, March, 1990, pp. 3-29.Piczek, I, “Shroud of Turin Shows Future of Science”. See:http://www.the-tidings.com/2005/0923/shroud.htmSee also Shroud of Turin websites for scientific updates:http://www.shroud.com/menu.htmwww.shroud.com.auRogers, R, “New chemical testing points to ancient origin for burial Shroud of Jesus”, AMSTAR Press Release, 19 January, 2005.Whiting, B, The Shroud Story, Harbour Publishing, 2006.Sungenis, R, New Discoveries of the Constellations on the Tilma of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Catholic Apologetics International, 2007. See:http://www.catholicintl.com/catholicissues/New_Discoveries_on_the_Tilma.pdf

Examples of a Goldensword:

- showing how a modern, genuine contribution to philosophy, e.g. the philosophy of science, can be incorporated into the “philosophia perennis”.

- the writings of gavin ardley and wolfgang smith are excellent examples of fine scholars attempting to come to grips with modern science, its strong points and defects. critique (compare and contrast) these.

- the importance of phenomenology in regard to the active (or ‘do’) side of a person. the whole question of ethics. in defence of the dignity of the human person.

- arguing against, indeed rectifying, the entrenched view that, whilst ‘faith is from the jews’, philosophy arose from the greeks. propose a revised history of philosophy (ancient, mediaeval & modern). gavin ardley is most useful here. also maritain’s view that ‘the west’ [hence ‘the east’ too] actually begins at calvary. (in St. Thomas Aquinas, Ch. II).

Examples of past efforts that would have qualified for a Goldensword:

- gavin ardley’s acute perception amidst all the dross in immanuel kant’s philosophy regarding the nature of modern science. also ardley’s thesis that philosopher george berkeley does not rightly belong as a triumvir with locke and hume, but is more in the mould of a socrates and plato. berkeley’s contribution to the philosophy of modern science.

- florence and kenneth wood’s cracking of the iliad’s code (a cosmological study appropriate to this section, but also to the biblical-historical section, as archaeo-astronomy).

- wolfgang smith’s arguments for the traditional weltanschauung: geocentrism.

3. Catholic Education {Jesus Christ as Teacher}

This will explore the nature of a neo-orthodox Catholic Education. Of interest, in this regard, will be the relationship of Philosophy to Catholic Education and the importance of Home Schooling, Distance Education & Catechetics. Candidates could contrast unsound systems of education (e.g. Dewey’s, Kohlberg’s) with genuine Catholic education.

For an idea of the range of topics, consult previous mentioned sites, plus:http://amaiceducation.blog.com/

AMAIC explanation: The comments made in regard to Philosophy also apply here, as a sound perennial philosophy must be the basis for any system of Catholic Education. Once again, candidates’ contributions will need to conform to the spirit of the AMAIC, which is Church-based.

[this section needs more thought & development yet …]Areas of Special Interest (essay or thesis topics)and Suggested Bibliography

The Relationship between Faith and Reason; Synthesis of Culture and Faith.

John XXIII, Encyclical, Pacem in Terris (1963), e.g. § 153.Congregation for Catholic Education.[See also Bibliography in Philosophy section]

The History & Development of Western Educational Thought & Practice in Connection with Philosophy.

Ardley, G, Aquinas and Kant, Longmans, Green & Co, London, 1950; also “What Kind of Education?”.John Paul II, Apostolic Constitution, Sapientia Christiana (On Ecclesiastical Universities and Faculties) (1979).John Paul II, Encyclical Fides et Ratio (1998).Maritain, J, St. Thomas Aquinas, Sheed & Ward, 1948, Ch. II, “The Wise Architect”.Chesterton, G, The Collected Works of G.K. Chesterton, Ignatius. See:http://www.chesterton.org/acs/collectedworks.htm

Transforming Culture in Light of the Gospel. Essential ‘Marks’ of Catholic Education.

Vatican II, Gravissimum Educationis.John Paul II, Encyclical, Veritatis Splendor (1993).Congregation for Catholic Education, “Educating Together in Catholic Schools” (2007). See e.g. http://amaiceducation.blog.com/ (post 02 April, 2008).Hahn, S, The Four Marks of the Church, 4 CD Set, Parousia Press.

Catechetics in State Schools. Education as “Intellectual Charity”.

Vatican II, Gravissimum Educationis.John Paul II, Exhortation, Catechesi Tradendae (1979).Tierney, Fr. J, (Various) Catechisms, including his recent, “The Singing Catechism”, Cardinal Newman Catechist Centre. See: http://www.cardinal%20newman.com.au/

The Failure of the Catholic Education System in Modern Times.

Seton Newsletter. “Home Schooling Based on Catholic Church Teaching”.Pell, Cardinal G, The Spirit of Generation Y.

Catholic Home Education: its Nature; Justifications for it; its Boundaries.

John Paul II, Apostolic Exhortation, The Role of the Christian Family in the Modern World (1981). Apostolic Exhortation, On Catechesis in Our Time (1979).Holy See, The Charter of the Rights of the Family (1983).Relevant sections of The Code of Canon Law.

Parents as the Primary Educators.

Vatican II’s Document on Education, Declaration on Christian Education.Pontifical Council for the Family’s Guidelines for Education Within the Family, 1995.

René Descartes the Highly Successful Pedagogue. His ‘Bifurcation’ and Undoing of the Largely Unified Scholastic Worldview.

Vatican II’s Document on Education, Declaration on Christian Education.Pontifical Council for the Family’s Guidelines for Education Within the Family, 1995. Ardley, G, “The Cartesian Projection”. Smith, W, Cosmos and Transcendence, 1984.[this section needs more thought & development yet …]Examples of a Goldensword:

- explaining the principles of a truly catholic educational system.

- arguing the merits of distance education and/or home schooling.

- a demonstrably quick and effective pedagogy that is new.

- model schools and academies for the third millennium.

Examples of past efforts that would have qualified for a Goldensword:

- fr. [blessed] antonio rosmini’s harmonising of the epistemology of aristotle and plato (also a subject for philosophy).

[this section needs more thought & development yet …]4. Biblical Studies {Jesus Christ as Logos}

This includes Old and New Testament history and archaeology, chronologies, and Semitic and Near Eastern studies, and even some palaeontology. A familiarity with ancient Hebrew will be greatly appreciated and encouraged.

For an idea of the range of topics, consult previous mentioned sites, plus:http://houseofgold.blog.com/

AMAIC explanation: The AMAIC has done substantial work (e.g. two post-graduate theses) towards establishing an archaeologically-based chronology of antiquity harmonious with the Bible’s history. While this system is not infallible, candidates will be expected to be well familiar with it, whilst being encouraged to suggest what they consider as its weaknesses requiring correction/modification. A system that departs radically from the AMAIC model will, if well conceived, be critically considered.

Areas of Special Interest (essay or thesis topics)and Suggested Bibliography

The Church and the Bible.

Leo XIII, Encyclical Providentissimus Deus (1893).Pius XII, Encyclical Divino Afflante Spiritu (1943).Vatican II, Document on the Scriptures, Dei Verbum.Rome and the Study of Scripture, Abbey Press, 1964.Pontifical Biblical Commission, Interpretation of the Bible in the Church, 1984.Harrison, Fr. B, The Teaching of Pope Paul VI on Sacred Scripture. Rome: Pontificium Athenaeum Sanctae Crucis, 1997.

The Sothic Theory of Egyptian Chronology.

Velikovsky, I. Ages in Chaos, Sidgwick & Jackson, 1952.Courville, D. The Exodus Problem and its Ramifications, Loma Linda, CA, 1971.Mackey, D. The Sothic Star Theory of the Egyptian Calendar, Uni of Sydney MA thesis, 1993.See: “AMAIC Historical-Biblical Articles”: http://houseofgold.blog.com/ (post for March 03, 2008), section 5. See also:http://kinghezekiahofjudah.blogspot.com/James, P. et al, Centuries of Darkness, Rutgers UP, 1993.Rohl, D. The Lost Testament, Century, 2002.

A New Biblically-Based Chronology. Jesus Christ as Lord of History: the Alpha and the Omega. The Chronological Importance of the Shroud of Turin. Jerusalem as the ‘True Pole’ of the Earth.

Anstey, M, The Romance of Bible Chronology, Marshall Bros, 1913.Mauro, P, The Seventy Weeks and the Great Tribulation, 1921.Mauro, P, The Wonders of Bible Chronology, Reiner, 1965.Mackey, D. A Revised History of the Era of King Hezekiah of Judah and its Background, Uni of Sydney PhD, 2008; and Twenty Pillars for a Revised Biblical History: Babel to Babylon: http://houseofgold.blog.com/2277980/ ; and Alpha and Omega:http://houseofgold.blog.com/2277980/Wilson, I, The Blood and the Shroud, Wiedenfeld Nicolson, 1998.

The Structure and Language of the Biblical Books.

Wiseman, P, Ancient Records and the Structure of Genesis, Thomas Nelson, 1985.Yahuda, A, The Language of the Pentateuch in its Relation to Egyptian, Oxford, 1933. Carmignac, J, The Birth of the Synoptic Gospels, Franciscan Herald Press, 1984.Tresmontant, C, The Hebrew Christ, Franciscan Herald Press, 1989. Kikawada, I & Quinn, A, Before Abraham Was, Ignatius Press, 1985.Minge, B, Jesus Spoke Hebrew, Shepherd Publications, 1984.Mackey, D, Calneggia, F & Money, P, “A Critical Re-Appraisal of the Book of Genesis”, I & II, SIS Chronology & Catastrophism Workshop, 1987, #’s 1 & 2.Mackey, D, Tracing the Hand of Moses in Genesis, see “AMAIC Historical-Biblical Articles”: http://houseofgold.blog.com/ (post for March 03, 2008), section 4.

The Genesis Flood. In Search of a True Model.

Mackey, D, Paradise Found! Evidence for the Geographical Location of Eden. http://www.catholicintl.com/noncatholicissues/paradise.htmand Just How ‘Global’ was the Great Flood (Genesis 6-9)?. See:http://genesisflood.blog.com/ also: http://genesis1.blog.com/also: http://houseofgold.blog.com/2277980/ (post for January 20, 2008),also: http://www.evcforum.net/cgi-bin/dm.cgi?action=msg&f=25&t=3084&m=3Pearce, E, Who was Adam? The Paternoster Press, 1976.Johnson, W, Evolution? Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration, 1986.Ryan, W & Pitman, W, Noah’s Flood, A Touchstone Book, 1998.

Biblical Characters in History.

AMAIC, Twenty Pillars for a Revised Biblical History: Babel to Babylon: http://houseofgold.blog.com/2277980/ (post for November 09, 2007).Metzler, Dr. E. Conflict of Laws in the Israelite Dynasty of Egypt. See:http://moziani.tripod.com/dynasty/ammm_2_1.htmMackey, D, Articles (Judith; Job; Queen of Sheba/Solomon; Nefertiti, etc.), see “AMAIC’s Historical-Biblical Articles”. See: “AMAIC Historical-Biblical Articles”: http://houseofgold.blog.com/ (post for March 03, 2008), section 5.also: http://bookofjonah.blog.com/ also: http://bookofdaniel.blog.com/also: http://bookofesther.blog.com/Examples of a Goldensword:

- showing the inadequacy of the conventional, sothic-based system of chronology.

- any effort to supplement the amaic’s revision of history. identifying biblical characters, events, in history.

- any work that helps to solidify the biblical chronology.

- a more reasonable model for the genesis flood, including a better model for the geological/stone & archaeological ages.

Examples of past efforts that would have qualified for a Goldensword:

- i. velikovsky’s realisation that egypt’s new kingdom history was dated 500 years too early, with all its ramifications for old testament history.

- dr. e. metzler’s revision, modifying and supplementing velikovsky, on the ‘queen of sheba’, and david and solomon, in Conflict of Laws in the Israelite Dynasty of Egypt. d. rohl’s historical identification of ‘nimrod the hunter’ in the lost testament, ch. 4: “nimrod and the tower of babel”.

- john osgood’s better model for the stone ages.- p. wiseman’s discovery of the basic structure of the book of genesis.

- jean carmignac’s argument for semitic originals, and hence earlier datings, for the gospels (and n.t. in general).

For the availability of any articles, or for publication details, please e-mail the AMAIC.

(LibrariesAustralia.Net is a also useful search device.

The Goldensword Award

In the, presumably rare, case in which the Goldensword is awarded, the AMAIC will give a prize (according to means) to the successful candidate, as well as an attractive diploma. The successful submission will become a part of the AMAIC’S curriculum, and will be written up in our Newsletter, MATRIX, and advertised on the appropriate AMAIC Internet site.

Why The Goldensword?

It, combined with the constellation of the Southern Cross, is the AMAIC’s Emblem.

Well, what does it all signify?This is explained in our Constitution (pp. 91-95):

“Judas Maccabeus, having armed each one of them not so much with the safety provided by shield and lance as with that confidence that springs from noble language, he encouraged them all by describing to them a convincing dream - a vision as it were.

What he had seen was this:

"Onias, the former high priest, that paragon of men, modest of bearing and gentle of manners, suitably eloquent and trained from boyhood in the practice of every virtue - Onias was stretching out his hands in prayer for the whole nation of the Jews. Next there appeared a man equally remarkable for his great age and dignity and invested with a marvellous and impressive air of majesty. Onias began to speak:-

‘This is a man’, he said, ‘who loves his brothers and prays much for the people and the Holy City: Jeremiah, the prophet of God’.

Whereupon Jeremiah stretched out his right hand and presented Judas with a golden sword, saying as he gave it:-

‘Take this golden sword as a gift from God; with it you shall overthrow the adversaries of my people Israel’”.

[2 Macc. 15:11-16].

It is this golden sword, a truly mystical weapon, which features on the cover of [the Academy’s ] Constitution. It represents for us the heavenly weapon of the First Fridays and First Saturdays, that two-edged sword of prayer and fasting, rendering its possessor invincible against the powers of darkness. It is slanted, as held in the right hand and in use: ours is a fighting Academy according to the words of this ardent yet little-known prayer by St. Louis de Montfort:-

“… Lord Jesus, remember to give to Thy Mother a new company who, through Her, will renew all things and thus, through Mary, will complete the years of grace as through Her Thou didst begin them ….

What am I asking of Thee?....

True servants of the Blessed Virgin Mary who, like other St. Dominics (lit. Domini Canes: ‘dogs of the Lord’) would go everywhere with the brightly burning torch of the Gospel in their mouths and the holy Rosary in their hands, barking like faithful watchdogs at the wolves who would gladly tear to pieces the flock of Jesus Christ; burning like fires, lighting up the darkness of the world like suns. Men who would, by means of a true devotion to Mary, … crush, wherever they go, the head of the old serpent, in order that the curse Thou gavest him might be entirely accomplished:

‘I will put enmities between thee and the Woman, and thy seed and Her Seed: She shall crush thy head’.

[Gen 3:15].

As for the Southern Cross by which the golden sword is enshrined, we were once again reminded of its significance by the following words of … John Paul II, when he visited the ‘land of the Southern Cross’ in 1986. With reference to the earlier explorers [he] said:-

“… some of them called this unknown land ‘the South Land of the Holy Spirit’. The early navigators plotted the course of their southern voyages by the brilliant stars. They rejoiced to see in the night sky a constellation with five points of light in the shape of a cross. The Southern Cross not only shines above you in the sky: it stands as your national symbol, everywhere visible on your flag.

It is a constant reminder to people of faith that the Cross of Christ is at the heart of our earthly existence and guarantees our heavenly destiny.

The Holy Spirit and the Cross both recall that the saving death of Christ and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit are present in the very heart of our human history, and consequently in the history of Australia. Dear people of Australia, I have come here to your land to bear witness also TO THE GREATNESS OF YOUR MISSION and to your immense capacity for good. In this sense too, with generous and uplifted hearts:-

‘Advance Australia Fair!’”