Secularism, Ecumenism & Interfaith Dialogue Flashcards
Secular
Not connected with religious or spiritual matters.
Ecumenism
The movement toward worldwide Christian unity. Aimed to promote cooperation between all Christian denominations.
Denomination
Independent branch of Christian Church (e.g. Catholic, Anglican, Uniting)
Interfaith dialogue
Cooperative, constructive and positive interaction between people of different religions, faiths and/or spiritual or humanistic beliefs, at both the individual and institutional levels.
Multifaith
A variety of religions coexisting in a society of many cultures.
Dialogue
Discussion/conversation on matters of importance.
Religious pluralism
Accepting that all religions are equal, valid, and ultimately lead to God.
The coexistence of various religions, and celebrating the presence of other religions without losing one’s own identity.
Structure of secular society
Policies and decisions made by governments are completely separate from religious influence, so as not to jeopardise the freedom and rights of citizens.
Secularism vs religious affiliation in the 1960s-1970s
Nearly all Australians affiliated with a religious denomination. Sunday church/services seen as an integral part of life.
Secularism vs religious affiliation in today’s society
Less emphasis on conforming, more emphasis on individuality –> increased secularism
Religion in today’s society is a … and … decision. Many prefer … … practices rather than … ….
Personal
Private
New Age
Traditional religions
What caused secularism to grow in the 1960s-70s?
- Australian Humanist Society
- Right to be married by civil celebrant rather than church clergy (1973)
Religious … and diversity can lead to … and conflict if … between religious groups is not reached.
Pluralism
Distrust
Understanding
Two forms of religious dialogue in multifaith Australia
- Ecumenism: All involved belong to Christian denominations.
- Interfaith dialogue: Groups involved come from different religious traditions.
What does ecumenism create?
- Movement towards religious unity
- Mutual respect and acceptance
- Impact on Australia’s expression of Christianity
Examples of ecumenism
- Uniting Church (methodist, presbyterian, congregational), formed 1977
- National Council of Churches (NCCA), with 17 participating churches
- NSW Ecumenical Council, with 16 participating churches, formed 1946
Purpose and actions of National Council of Churches (NCCA)
- Deepen relationship between churches
- Express unity willed by Christ for his church (fulfil mission)
Ecumenical initiatives examples
- Schools & education
- Support for Reconciliation
- Ecumenical services (e.g. Christmas, Easter)
- Local & regional initiatives (e.g. charity, fundraising)
- Week of prayer for Christian unity
Purpose and actions of NSW Ecumenical Council
- Committed to peace & reconciliation
- Expression of common voice on issues of concern
- Projects & issues concerning churches & wider community
- Social justice programs
- Ministry & refugee program (helps asylum seekers, refugees, immigrants, detainees)
Purpose of interfaith dialogue
Need for religious leaders to express commonalities binding religious worldviews due to current cultural & political divisions.
Both ecumenism and interfaith dialogue allow cooperation on social justice issues, such as…
- Indigenous rights
- Unemployment
- Poverty & homelessness
- Refugees & asylum seekers