Theme 3D- Challenges From Science Flashcards
What is an Anglican communion?
A worldwide association of episcopal (having a bishop) churches.
Define the Church of England
A church body that is a part of the Anglican communion and is the state (or established) Church in England.
What is a faith school?
A school that is associated with a religious tradition, many of these schools are state funded though many independent schools have an association with religion.
Define secularisation
The process of society moving away from religion.
Define secularism
The belief that secularisation is a benefit to society.
Define privatisation
The movement from public to private; in terms of religion, belief and practice becoming a matter of inner disposition rather than other practice
Is the UK a Christian country? - arguments ‘for’
. The country is divided up into Parishes
. There are many Churches (including Anglican communion- Church of England and the Church in Wales and Roman Catholic Churches)
. Many cathedrals including the seat of the Head of the Church of England- Canterbury cathedral
. 30% of primaryand secondary schools have a religious affiliation
. Religious media- Vicar of Dibley, Songs of praise, Chronicles of Narnia
What are some statistics?
. British Social Attitudes Survey shows that less than 15% report attending religious services on a weekly basis.
. Studies show that despite approximately half the population claiming to be Christian, their beliefs do not affirm anything like the traditional Christian notions.
. ORB survey- the population is less Christian but more ‘spiritual’.
What are some facts on the decline of traditional Christianity?
. In the Church of England 67% of the population were baptised in 1950 but only 21% were in 2011.
. In 1957, 72% of all marriages in England and Wales were conducted in churches; by the year 2000 this had dropped to 36.3%.
. Many British politicians are often silent about matters of religion.
What are some lines of argument to support the notion of the UK as a Christian country?
. Studies have shown that numbers are growing at cathedrals amongst worshippers, pilgrims, tourists and visitors.
. it is relatively rare for someone to die without some form of religious ceremony.
. There is a Christian presence through chaplains in many areas of our social life: health care, the prison service, the armed services and higher education.
. A study by the AHRC in 2010/11 showed that just over 50% of undergraduate students self-identified as Christians.
. Many Christian’s holidays are celebrated here.
What are some lines of argument to challenge the notion of the UK as a Christian country?
