COURSE CATALOG
Biblical Literature
2 Semesters
Mandatory for all Freshmen
The first year lays a foundation of the Religion curriculum with an introduction of Sacred Scripture as the source book for Catholic teaching. Beginning with Genesis, students learn the basic principles of a contextual approach to the Bible. The first 3 quarters cover the Hebrew Scriptures, while the last quarter draws upon this to more fully understand the Gospels. The course concludes that an overview of the life of St. Francis as a model of one who lived the Gospel we study. Subsequent courses continue to build upon this foundation by frequently referencing the Scriptures and further clarifying the Written Tradition of Sacred Scriptures in light of the Oral Tradition of Church Teachings.
Mr. Fredette's Biblical Literature Webpage
Christian Worship
1 Semester
Mandatory for all Sophomores
The Liturgy, sacramental rites and devotions reinforce the meaning of Catholic life and identity. During the first semester the students will be exploring the biblical and historical origins of these basic Catholic practices while on a practical level applying them to his personal life. The course might be less formally titled, "Why We do What We do," since it covers the meaning and reasons behind Catholic sacraments and devotions. This course includes a practicum in which students carefully plan and lead a student body liturgy. Students will incorporate one computer unit using� Excel.
Moral Foundations
1 Semester
Mandatory for all Sophomores
Drawing from reason, the Bible and the Magisterium, students are exposed to the basic tenets of Christian ethics and morality. The foundations for morality are set upon a clearer understanding of human nature and Christian revelation. The first part of the course develops the philosophical and biblical principles for basic morality, while the second part explores in a more personal way, moral and ethical issues. Both the course in worship and this course in moral foundations draw from the previous year's exposure to Biblical Literature. Students will incorporate one computer unit using Access.
History of the Catholic Church
1 Semester
Mandatory for all Juniors
The course endeavors to expose the student to the general, significant themes which have shaped Christianity and Christianity's influence upon the development of society. Specifically, the course throws light upon the major personalities, movements and political concerns which undergird the development of Christian teaching from the age of the Apostles to the twentieth century. It helps ground the students' understanding of Christian teaching within the dynamics of a living Christian tradition.
|
|
|
RELIGION |
|
|
Department Chair,
Comparative Religion,
Church History
|
|
Mr. Joe Bidwell,
B.A. |
Living a Christian Life |
|
|
Biblical Literature |
Mr. Eric Gleason,
B.S., M.A.
|
Biblical Literature |
|
Mrs. Angela Guadalupe,
B.A. |
Moral Foundations and Social Justice |
Mr. Emanuel Eulalia,
B.A.,M.A.
|
Moral Foundations and Social Justice |
Comparative Religion
1 Semester
Mandatory for all Juniors
As far back as we can go, even before the earliest written records, there is evidence that religion was a key aspect of life. Today, in countries such as Iran, Lebanon and India, the impact of religion is becoming more obvious. No one can understand mankind without understanding the faiths of humanity. The Comparative Religion course is designed to introduce students to the historical development, basic beliefs, and common practices of several of the more cultic expressions of these religious traditions as practiced in the United States. Furthermore, it is the aim of this course, though exposure to other religions, to deepen the students' appreciation of their own faith.
Living a Christian Life
2 Semesters
Mandatory for all Seniors
The Senior year focuses on helping students develop their own individual sense of spirituality and to properly form their conscience. This course builds upon the knowledge gained from the previous three years of religious studies education and attempts to weave it into a single framework. During the first semester, students will be asked to answer the questions, "What do I believe?" and "How will I live?" During the second semester, we will explore a series of religious studies topics selected by the students, as well as a number of controversial issues in contemporary Catholicism. The course involves extensive group discussion and selected readings from major Catholic publications. The ultimate purpose of this course is to provide students with a spiritual foundation that will assist them in making positive, life-affirming choices after graduating from St. Francis High School. |
