Religion Studies Philosophy

Realizing that our students live in a pluralistic society and are exposed to many different philosophies, we see the need to present Christ’s message and values as a viable option that will direct them to a fullness of life and to an openness to God’s spirit working in their lives.

The purpose of our religious education courses is to inform and form a young person’s faith to become living, conscious and active through instruction and example, as well as creating opportunities for communal worship and prayer.

A living, Christian faith by its nature leads to action. Religious education (ministry of word and worship) attempts to show the students how faith should flow from the intellectual to the practical: a ministry of service linked with efforts to achieve social justice among all people.

We seek to accompany our students on their faith journey:

  • by leading students to a discovery of God as a vital, loving, and ever-present reality through scripture, liturgy, doctrine and life experiences
  • by developing a culture of love which fosters a morality based on respect for all life
  • by helping students enhance their view of the Church as a living faith community, characterized by loving relationships, liturgical worship, and compassionate service through planning and participating in liturgical celebrations, providing retreat experiences, offering a variety of ways of praying, and encouraging participation in service opportunities
  • by inviting students to become more aware of their call to holiness, their special relationship with Christ, within the community of the Church
  • by developing courses that respect both the rich tradition and the ongoing mission of the Church in the world today
  • by encouraging critical thinking and active participation through problems solving, decisions making, and group dynamics as components of the learning experience
  • by fostering respect for all religious beliefs
  • by modeling what we learn and teach

Academic Notes

Religion courses meet on a six-day cycle. In any given two-week period, a Religion class will meet an average of five classes. Course outlines are adapted to fit into this structure.

Religion classes combine academic and reflective components.

Due to the nature of the material and the diversity of each student’s religious background and experience, the teacher must adapt technique, assignments, and forms of evaluation to effectively meet the needs of each student.

Courses

Grade 9

  • Religion I

Grade 10

  • Religion II

Grade 11

  • Religion III

Grade 12*

  • Catholic Theme in Art & Film
  • Applying Faith to Professional Life
  • Spirituality and Mysticism
  • Catholic Living in the New Testament

*Students can choose any of the Grade 12 listed courses to meet this requirement

During the summer, students are encouraged to get involved with volunteer service projects. These may include but are not limited to, summer camps in parishes and elementary schools and sports camps.

During the school year, students can fulfill their service hours by volunteering in their parish, elementary school or their local community. There are limited service opportunities offered here at school. students should check possibilities at the campus ministry office.