Studies of Religion

Daring Classrooms - Brene Brown

Brown emphasizes that courage involves showing up and being seen, even when the outcome is uncertain. Drawing from her extensive research, she identifies four key skill sets for building courage: vulnerability, clarity of values, trust, and resilience. She highlights the importance of resilience in getting back up after experiencing setbacks and failures, emphasizing that courage often involves falling down but having the strength to rise again.

12 October 2025 · Brene Brown

Studies of Religion

What does recontextualisation - mean for the Church - and Religious Education?

The presentation explores the concept of recontextualisation in Catholic Religious Education within the Australian context, where students now come from diverse backgrounds with varied faith perspectives and life experiences. While only a small percentage of young Christians actively practice their faith, much of the curriculum still assumes a monocultural Catholic worldview. This reliance on reconfessionalisation—reinforcing church identity through catechetical teaching—risks alienating students and fails to acknowledge the pluralistic reality of classrooms today.

30 September 2025 · Andrew Dumas

Studies of Religion

Immanence - Studies of Religion - Nature of Religion

Immanence, a key concept in religious thought, refers to the belief that the divine is present within the world and actively involved in human existence, contrasting with transcendence, which emphasizes God's separateness. In Christianity, God's immanence is seen through the Incarnation of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit’s presence within believers. Islam highlights divine closeness through Allah’s nearness, as described in the Qur'an, and practices such as prayer and remembrance of God. In Judaism, the concept of Shekhinah represents God's presence dwelling among people, deepened by Jewish mysticism. Hinduism expresses immanence through the belief that Brahman, the ultimate reality, exists within all beings as Atman, while Buddhism teaches that enlightenment is found within, through the Buddha-nature inherent in every individual. Across these traditions, immanence fosters a personal and accessible connection between the divine and humanity, shaping spiritual experiences and moral guidance.

14 February 2025 · Marist Laity Australia

Studies of Religion

Sources of Good Works - Natural Law - SICT

This task involves exploring Natural Law Theory through various learning activities. You begin by noting sources of good work in their exercise book, then watch and analyze three videos on Natural Law Theory, summarizing 15–20 key points for each. Next, they engage in ethical reasoning by examining three scenarios where moral dilemmas arise, applying Natural Law principles to determine the most virtuous course of action. You then create their own scenario and analyze it using Natural Law, emphasizing concepts like human dignity, rationality, and moral responsibility. They share and discuss their scenarios with peers, providing constructive feedback on moral reasoning and clarity. Finally, students summarize their discussions, take a photo of their completed work, and submit it for marking.

10 February 2025 · Marist Laity Australia

Studies of Religion

Studies of Religion - Saint Francis of Assisi

In the HSC Studies of Religion Syllabus, each Depth Study students are required to choose a person or school of thought. In Christianity, we have chosen 'Saint Francis of Assisi'. Saint Francis is an excellent person to do as he speaks volumes for us in our world today. Saint Francis shows us how to care for creation, how to care for the poor, how to make peace where there is hatred. People like Pope Francis are inpsired by the example of Saint Francis.

10 November 2024 · Marist Laity Australia

Studies of Religion

Multiple Choice Practise - Studies of Religion - Post 1945

Interactive practise multiple choice questions for the Post 1945 topic for Studies of Religion HSC Syllabus.

12 July 2024 · Andrew Dumas

Studies of Religion

The impact of Saint Francis today - Studies of Religion

Saint Francis of Assisi, a revered figure in Christian history, profoundly impacted service, love, peace, and environmental care, inspiring people worldwide. His dedication to serving others with humility, living in poverty, and showing compassion reflected his deep love for Christ and commitment to emulate His life. Francis's efforts extended beyond charity to radical solidarity with the poor, exemplified by his interactions with lepers and the impoverished. His commitment to peace was demonstrated by his dialogue with the Sultan of Egypt, emphasizing love and understanding over conflict. As the patron saint of ecology, Francis's reverence for creation and practical actions to protect animals have influenced modern environmental movements. Inspired by his example, contemporary leaders like Pope Francis and theologians such as Sally McFague emphasize ecological stewardship and the interconnectedness of all life. Saint Francis's holistic approach continues to challenge us to adopt a more compassionate and ecologically mindful lifestyle, aiming for a just, peaceful, and sustainable world.

09 July 2024 · Andrew Dumas

Studies of Religion

Francis and the Sultan - Studies of Religion - Christian Significant Person

The video 'Francis and the Sultan' explores the historical encounter between St. Francis of Assisi and Sultan al-Kamil of Egypt during the time of the Crusades. It highlights themes of dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding across religious and cultural divides.The story begins with the backdrop of the Crusades, specifically the conflict over Jerusalem, a holy site for both Christians and Muslims. Despite the ongoing violence, the video focuses on the efforts of Francis, who, disillusioned by the crusades' violence, seeks a path of peace and brotherhood. He travels to the Muslim camp, not as a crusader but as a peacemaker, aiming to understand and engage with the Muslim world through dialogue rather than confrontation.

07 July 2024 · Franciscan Media

Studies of Religion

The Superiority of Paper as a Learning Medium - A Review of Research

In the digital age, the debate between the efficacy of traditional paper and electronic screens as learning mediums has garnered significant attention. Numerous studies have examined various dimensions of this issue, consistently demonstrating that paper often provides a superior medium for learning compared to digital screens like computers or iPads. This essay explores the existing research that highlights the advantages of paper over electronic media in educational contexts.

05 July 2024 · Andrew Dumas

Studies of Religion

How do we know the Bible is True?

The Video 'Who is Jesus' from Alpha provides an overview of the evidence supporting the Bible's authenticity. It emphasizes the historical and archaeological records that corroborate biblical stories. The video also highlights the consistency of biblical manuscripts over time, comparing them favorably with other ancient texts. Additionally, it mentions external sources that align with the biblical narrative about Jesus, lending further credibility to the Bible's accounts. This overview is designed to underline the reliability and historical grounding of the Bible.

11 December 2023 · Alpha

Studies of Religion

What is the - True Nature of Freedom - Bishop Robert Barron

In his talk on the nature of freedom, Robert Barron explores the concept of freedom, particularly its interpretation in Western culture. He begins by referencing the influence of notable figures like Martin Luther King and Bob Dylan, using Dylan's lyrics to introduce the theme of freedom linked to truth and responsibility. Barron delves into theological perspectives on freedom, citing St. Thomas Aquinas and William of Ockham as representatives of two distinct views. Aquinas posits that true freedom aligns with God's inherent goodness, arguing that God cannot sin because His will is perfectly ordered to His goodness. In contrast, Ockham emphasizes God's absolute power, suggesting that God's will is so powerful it defines reality, thereby divorcing freedom from goodness.

19 November 2023 · Bishop Robert Barron

Studies of Religion

Saint Francis of Assisi and peace

Saint Francis of Assisi is revered not only as the patron saint of Italy but also of the environment and animals, reflecting his profound love for all of creation. His commitment to peace was recognized universally, with Pope Francis emphasizing his role during a religious meeting in Bulgaria. Saint Bonaventure, in 1260, and Thomas of Celano both depicted Saint Francis as a harbinger of peace. Central to Saint Francis's teachings was the belief that genuine peace arises from forgiveness.

02 November 2023 · Father Mario Conte

Studies of Religion

Lessons - Preparing for the Voice Referendum

The educational resource titled 'Preparing for the Referendum: An Introduction to the upcoming Referendum' by the Edmund Rice Centre for Justice and Community Education provides valuable insights into the upcoming Australian Referendum, scheduled for October 14, 2023, which will focus on recognizing First Nations Australians in the Constitution through the establishment of a First Nations Voice to Parliament.

03 September 2023 · Edmund Rice Centre

Studies of Religion

Lessons - Voice to Parliament - Debate - Video - Newsletter

This lesson plan is designed to engage students in a comprehensive exploration of the 'Voice to Parliament' issue in Australia, allowing them to develop a well-rounded understanding of the topic, including arguments for and against it. The plan includes three options for students to choose from: creating a newsletter article, producing a professional video, or participating in a debate. Each option encourages research, critical thinking, and the presentation of unbiased information.

02 September 2023 · Marist Laity Australia

Studies of Religion

The increase in the NONES

The number of people unaffiliated with any church or religious organisation has been on the increase. They are sometimes called the NONES. These are often people who describe themselves as spiritual but not religious. This is the fastest-growing denomination in America. Notice they do not want to call themselves Atheists. These are people who are very much in search mode. Who are looking. They are looking for meaning. These are people who are seeking some kind of path in life. They really do not like the doctrine and institutional structures through which we have inherited much of the Christian message. They want ot get at what is essential. They touch on the mystery and depth without all the furniture which goes along with it...

27 November 2022 · Professor Harvey Cox Hollis

Studies of Religion

How can Christian Churches respond to rapidly declining numbers?

Christian churches have until recently used a reconfessional approach to problem of declining church numbers. This video puts forward a new approach of recontextualising how we engage with others. Hermeneutics are important. But the question is - which one will we use. - Studies of Religion. Post 1945.

06 October 2022 · Andrew Dumas

Studies of Religion

The Early Church in Australia

Early development of the Catholic Church in Australia for Religious Education and Studies of Religion. Topics covered - First Settlement, Anglican Church by Force, Period of Persecution, The early Catholic Church in Australia, James Dixon, castle hill rebellion, Father Jeremiah Oâ€™Flynn, and Influence of the Convict System.

09 August 2022 · Marist Laity Australia

Studies of Religion

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