Dialogue Flashcards
Why is the number 13 considered unlucky in some Christian traditions?
Because thirteen men sat down to the last meal that Jesus had before his death.
What are some popular names that originate from the Bible?
Names such as Daniel, Sarah, Aaron, and Hannah.
Why might religious people be drawn to a gathering like the Sunday Assembly?
They may be seeking a community experience and inspirational content similar to traditional church, without the doctrinal constraints.
Why might non-religious people want to attend Sunday Assembly meetings?
Because it offers an inclusive, secular community that provides a sense of belonging and shared values.
What major event in the 16th century established the independence of the Church of England?
King Henry VIII’s Act of Supremacy in 1534, which declared the Monarch as the Supreme Head of the Church of England.
How did Protestantism influence the Church of England under Queen Elizabeth I?
It broadened the church’s appeal to both reforming Protestants and Catholics, even though Catholics faced restrictions.
What restrictions were placed on Catholics in England after the Reformation?
Catholics were barred from voting, sitting in Parliament, or succeeding to the throne.
Who founded the Sunday Assembly and what was their inspiration?
Comedians Sanderson Jones and Pippa Evans, who wanted a secular, inclusive alternative to traditional church.
When and where did the first Sunday Assembly meeting take place?
On 6 January 2013 in Islington.
How widespread is the Sunday Assembly now?
There are 68 chapters across eight different countries.
According to the 2011 Census for England and Wales, which religion had the largest number of adherents?
Christianity, with 59.4% of the population identifying as Christian.
What change in religious affiliation was noted in the 2011 Census compared to 2001?
The number of Christians decreased by 12%, while the numbers of Muslims and people reporting no religion increased.
What official religious title does the Monarch of the United Kingdom hold?
The Monarch is known as Defender of the Faith and serves as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England.
Who crowns the Monarch and why is this ceremony significant?
The Archbishop of Canterbury crowns the Monarch, symbolizing the close historical link between the state and the Church of England.
What oath is taken by the Monarch during the coronation concerning the Church of England?
The Monarch pledges to maintain the Protestant Reformed Religion established by law and to preserve the settlement, doctrine, worship, discipline, and government of the Church of England.
What are some modern roles of the Monarch as Supreme Governor of the Church of England?
The Monarch approves senior clerical appointments (on the Prime Minister’s recommendation), opens sessions of the General Synod, and grants Royal Assent to Measures affecting the Church.
How are laws concerning the Church of England made?
Measures proposed by the General Synod are passed by both Houses of Parliament and then receive Royal Assent from the Monarch.
In what ways does the Church of England contribute to public life in Britain?
It is involved in education, community initiatives, and supports faith groups, thereby playing a part in shaping social values and cohesion.
What is the composition of the House of Lords regarding religious representation?
The House of Lords includes 26 Lords Spiritual (Anglican bishops) along with a variable number of Lords Temporal.
What did the Commission on Religion and Belief in Public Life (Corab) recommend about the House of Lords?
The report recommended increasing religious diversity by reducing the number of Anglican bishops and including more representatives from other faiths.
What is the National Secular Society’s stance on religious representation in the House of Lords?
They argue for the complete removal of religious representation, insisting that religion should not influence politics or government.
How does the Church of England justify the presence of Anglican bishops in the House of Lords?
They argue that the bishops provide an independent religious perspective and serve as a voice for all people of faith, contributing to national debate.
How are the church and state linked in Britain?
Through the established Church of England—where the Monarch is the Supreme Governor, Anglican bishops sit in the House of Lords, and the Church’s Measures become law with Parliamentary approval and Royal Assent.
What reasons does the Queen give for defending the role of the Church of England as the established church?
She explains that the Church supports not only its own adherents but also creates an environment that enables other faith communities and non-believers to practice freely, contributing to the common good.
What impact does the church–state relationship have on public life in Britain?
It affects areas such as education, law, and community cohesion, while also contributing to the nation’s historical and cultural identity.
What is the relationship between the Church in Wales and the Church of England?
The Church in Wales was part of the Church of England until it was disestablished in 1920, after which it became independent.
Which church is the established church in Scotland?
The Church of Scotland, which follows Presbyterian traditions rather than Anglican ones.
What is the difference in status between the Church of Ireland and the Roman Catholic Church of Ireland?
The Roman Catholic Church is the largest denomination in Ireland, while the Church of Ireland is the Anglican body that was once established in Northern Ireland before being disestablished.
What did the Irish Church Act of 1870 achieve?
It disestablished the Church of Ireland, separating it from the state and the Church of England, and granted it independence from the monarchy.
What role do the Lords Spiritual play in the UK legislative process?
They offer an independent religious perspective in the House of Lords and contribute to debates, although they do not claim direct political representation.
What are the differing views on the presence of Anglican bishops in the House of Lords?
- Corab: Advocates for more religious diversity by reducing Anglican bishops in favor of representatives from various faiths.
- National Secular Society: Argues that no religious representation is needed in a secular state.
- Church of England: Maintains that bishops provide valuable spiritual insight and represent all people of faith.
