Religious Studies Level 3

Welcome to Religious Studies at Liston College. The Year 13 course sits within the context of 'Sent' with students developing a critical awareness of current religious issues and understand how they affect our world. Three topics will be covered:

1. Ā Tātou Whakapapa Our Story The Church in Aotearoa New Zealand: The Catholic Church in New Zealand stands as a vital and dynamic part of the universal Church, embodying the mission of Christ through its commitment to faith, hope, and charity. Rooted in the rich traditions of Catholicism, the Church in New Zealand seeks to engage with the unique cultural and societal context of the region, emphasizing the importance of indigenous Māori culture and language within its liturgical and communal life.
2. Kia Noho Hāhi Being Church Ethics: The Church teaches that every human life has inherent dignity and worth, and that true compassion involves providing loving care and support to those who are suffering. In its response to contemporary ethical issues, the Church advocates for upholding the belief that all human beings are called to share in the redemptive suffering of Christ. Students are encouraged to develop their conscience to enable an informed, moral and spiritual opinion.  
3. Te Rongopai Good News Biblical Studies II: This topic recognises that the Bible is inspired by Te Atua (God) and seeks to develop an understanding of how God used human authors to convey the message of salvation.
4. Being Human Making Meaning (OPTIONAL): This topic explores the big questions of life. It looks at human concerns and explores ways different people respond to them, including the way the Christian community and the Catholic Church in particular help people grapple with these issues.