This course is a doctoral-level exploration of the formation of communities from the perspective of historical theology. Students will examine and deploy concepts related to ecclesiology, with special reference to Christian traditions of coenobitic monasticism. Students will engage relevant texts within their original historical context, with a roughly equal emphasis being given to ancient, medieval, and modern voices. Historic practices of discernment, such as Spiritual Direction, will be woven into the course experience, with an eye toward cultivating the graces of love in the personal life of the student.