Religion Post \'45 PDF

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Study notes on Religion in Australia post 1945....

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Studies of Religion – 1 Unit – HSC Course Depth Study: Religion & Belief Systems in Australia Post – 1945 Study Notes

Religious expression in Australia 1945-present 3a) Changing patterns in religious adherence from 1945 to the present using census data Overview of changing patterns of religious adherence: 

Immigration, secularisation, denominational switching and the New age movement contributed to the change in religious affiliation, a decline in Christianity and increase in secularisation. Religious affiliation Christian Catholic Other religions No religion

Population %, 1947 88 20.9 0.5 0.3

Population %, 2016 52.1 22.6 8.2 30.1

Non-Christian traditions Religious affiliation Islam Buddhism Hinduism Judaism

Religious Affiliation Anglican Presbyterian Uniting Pentecostal

Population %, 1947 0.04 0.01 0.00 0.4

Population %, 2016 2.6 2.4 1.9 0.4

Christian Denominations Population %, 1947 39 9.8 7.6

Population %, 2016 13.3 3.4 2.3

3b) Account for the present religious landscape in Australia in relation to: Christianity as the major religious tradition Historical background: (i)

 

European settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries established Christianity in Aus, including the Church of England, the Roman Catholic and Presbyterian Church. Indigenous spiritualties were not recognised whilst the white Australia policy kept out other religions.

Factors contributing to the decline of Christianity:    

Secularisation, Dissatisfaction, Ageing membership Lack of migrant intake

Reasons for the increase in Catholic figures: 

Catholicism has been insulated from a decline in numbers due to a substantial migrant intake, higher birth rate and nominal identification.

(ii) Immigration Reasons for immigration following WWII:    

Immigration is the most significant reason for the increase in the diversity of Australian religious character. WWII attributed many European refugees to Australia. The removal of the white Australia policy. Overseas war and persecution drew waves of immigration from affected areas.

Influence on society:  

Immigration has increased diversity in religious make-up. Immigration has brought new traditions and diversified pre-existing ones.

(iii) Denominational switching Reasons for denominational switching:   

Involves the transfer of followers from one Christian denomination to another. More common in Protestant denominations than in Catholic or Orthodox. Individualism has resulted in people focussing on personal needs when searching for the correct religion.

Pentecostalism:   

Pentecostal growth is primarily attributed to denominational switching. The contemporary nature of Pentecostal churches attracts younger generations who have expressed religious dissatisfaction. Many people leave Pentecostalism after a short period, known as the ‘revolving door syndrome’.

(iv)

Rise of new age religions

Definition: 

Used as an umbrella term to cover spiritual beliefs and practices which aim to foster individual fulfilment, used alternatively or in conjunction to traditional faith.

Characteristics of new age religion:   

Individualistic and search oriented, not focussed on an established doctrine. May seek wisdom from Eastern traditions such as Buddhism. Favour a creation-centred spirituality, such as one of indigenous cultures.

Reasons for the popularity of new aged religions:  

New age religions are individualistic and liberal, allowing adherents to ‘tailor’ a faith to suit themselves. New age spiritualties may fulfil the existing longing for a spiritual dimension to life.

Various forms of new age religion:

 

Numerology  The belief that certain numbers and patterns hold the key to human existence. Yoga & tai chi  Involves gentle exercise, meditation and relaxation which is believed to lead to a more peaceful life. Originating from Hinduism and Taoism.

(v)

Secularism

Definition: 

Secularism is the belief that religion should not interfere with or be integrated into the public affairs of society.

Reasons for secularisation:  

Secularisation involves the diminishing of relevance of religious values. Reasons for secularisation include  Pluralism  Individualism  materialism  disillusionment with traditional religions  scepticism towards the supernatural due to science.

Significant increase in the number of atheists:  

Signs of secularisation include declines in religious affiliation, church attendance and clergy numbers. Secularisation has resulted in more atheists and agnostics in society.

Religious dialogue in Australia 4a) Describe the impact of Christian Ecumenical movements in Australia Definition:  

The movement towards religious unity amongst Christian denominations under an acknowledgment that a unity with Christ outweighs diversity in practice and belief. Recognises the ‘scandal of Christian disunity’

Nature of ecumenical initiatives: 

 

Joint commissions/formal ecumenical bodies exist.  Anglican Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC) has held discussions regarding issues such as Baptism, Eucharist, Ministry and Authority. Educational level  Sydney college of divinity Practical level  Joint prayer services.

Uniting Church:

   

Formed in. 1977 Includes Methodists (100%), Presbyterians (65%) and Congregationalists (95%). The church’s basis of union is, “seeking to bear witness to that unity which is both Christ’s gift and will for the church.” Recognise ecumenism as an ongoing initiative.

National Council of Churches Australia (NCCA):    

An ecumenical body promoting denominational unity, seeking to “to express more visibly the unity willed by Christ.” Developed the Christian World Service, aiming to offer support for the marginalized. Provides resources for the annual Week of prayer for Christian Unity. In 1994, the ACC formed the NCCA to include Catholics.

NSW Ecumenical Council:  

The NSW ecumenical council was formed in 1982 and consists of 16 churches throughout NSW and the ACT. Main aims include:  Seeks to reflect upon theology in a united way  Provide local initiatives to promote ecumenism  Provide platforms to address social justice issues.  Educational initiatives (schools)

4b) Evaluate the importance of interfaith dialogue in multi-faith Australia Definition:  

The formal discussion towards the development of a mutual understanding between different religious traditions. Interfaith dialogue is not a forum for evangelisation, fundamental dissimilarities are accepted and religious commonalities are sought to be found.

Interfaith initiatives:  

1996, Pope John Paul II held an interfaith prayer service at the Domain in Sydney. Religions traditions work together on social issues as a testament to underlying similarities between values.

Examples of interfaith dialogue:  The Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim relations was established in 1997 to foster relationships and understandings of each other’s beliefs and practices whilst addressing stereotypes and misconceptions.  APRO (Australian Partnership of Religious Organisation), seeks to protect against religious vilification and is supported by numerous traditions.

Importance of Interfaith dialogue: 

Interfaith dialogue creates respect and appreciation for religious diversity.

  

Interfaith dialogue is a vital method of breaking down prejudices for a harmonious society. Helps faiths to speak out on common issues and uphold shared values. In a secularised society, Interfaith dialogue can help to proclaim the importance of faith.

4c) Examine the relationship between Aboriginal spiritualties and Religious traditions in the process of reconciliation Christian groups in the reconciliation process:  



Redresses the near eradication of spirituality following dispossession. Numerous Christian groups are involved in the reconciliation process under a growing appreciation for Aboriginal spirituality, supporting issues such as land rights. Christian groups were one of the first advocates for Aboriginal rights. 1967, the Catholic Church prominently led the campaign for Aboriginal citizenship.

AnTaR: 

Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation, this group advocated for indigenous rights and organised the sea of hands display to promote reconciliation and justice.

Formal apology to Stolen generations:  

Signifies an ongoing process of reconciliation. The 1997, ‘Bringing them home report’, released by the HREOC, offered a formal apology and made recommendations to assist Aboriginals.

Kevin Rudd’s apology:  

February, 2008. The apology is not evidence of a religious response, rather, government recognition deriving from religious pressures.

“We today take this first step by acknowledging the past and laying claim to a future that embraces all Australians.”

Interfaith support for reconciliation:  

Jewish groups hold a week of prayer for reconciliation every year. In 1998, they voiced their support for the Wik decision and opposition to the 10-point plan. The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils and the Buddhist Peace Fellowship have made statements in support of Aboriginal rights and reconciliation.

Quotes Reconciliation “With resolve we commit ourselves to reconciliations so that all may share with equity and justice.”- Pope John Paul II

“The gospel of Jesus speaks all languages. It esteems and embraces all cultures. It supports them in everything human.”

Religious expression in Australia “Our vision is for ecumenism to be an integral part of the life of the Australian churches and for us together to experience God’s continual renewal and transformation.” “Ecumenism strives for equality, unity and appreciation of the differences between various Christian denominations.”...