Religion 5
In Fifth Grade Religion the students begin the year with an in-depth study of the Lord’s Prayer using the Talmudic model of study known as a Midrash. Classes start with a daily prayer and a discussion of the gospel reading of the day. Students use journals to compose a series of reflections based on each week’s story. We read stories ranging from The Guest retold by Uma Krishnaswami and The Three Questions based on a story by Leo Tolstoy to The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. In the second term, the students focus on their preparation for Advent through studying the prophecies of Isaiah. We examined how these prophecies are fulfilled in the coming of Jesus. The students continue during the third and final terms to follow the life of Jesus and the church calendar through the scriptures. Together with the continued training in the fundamental skills of writing, reflection, and discussion, students are given opportunities to express their ideas artistically.
Religion 6: Introduction to the Hebrew Scriptures
Introduction to the Hebrew Scriptures introduces students to major themes and characters of the Hebrew Bible. Through an examination of God's self-revelation to Israel, they learn to see God as the One who creates, nurtures, and calls all people to freedom. A study of morality is emphasized as students learn of the relationship between God and Israel expressed in the Covenant of Sinai. Through the study of the prayers and rituals of the Hebrew Bible, they deepen their appreciation of the roots of the Christian tradition.
Religion 7: Introduction to the Reading of Christian Scriptures
The theme of this course is Jesus as revealed in various New Testament narratives. Skills of interpretation, reflection, and the application of principles of Christian life to contemporary society comprise the core of the course. With special emphasis on the Mass, students also learn about and experiment with a variety of prayer forms.
Religion 8: The Christian Tradition
Students examine the major historical periods which contributed to the formation of the Church as it is today. From a historical perspective, they are led to reflect critically on the heritage of the Church. Thus, they come to appreciate the continuity of faith and worship that marks the Church's pilgrimage to the present day. An emphasis is placed on the role of women in the Church, personal prayer, and the application of the Church's moral teachings to one's life.