Religion
Vision/Mission Statement: During their middle school years, students will progress through spiritually and academically challenging coursework in the Religious Studies Department that will result in a foundational understanding of the Old Testament, New Testament, and the Person of Jesus. We use a Catholic framework that incorporates the RSCJ charism while developing a deep understanding and respect for other faith traditions. We incorporate experiential service opportunities in and outside the classroom that encourage a lived faith experience.
GR 6: Study of the Old Testament - In this course, students focus their religious studies on the Old Testament, also known as the Hebrew Scriptures, with special emphasis given to the Book of Genesis. Students are encouraged to analyze the relevance of the lessons from the lives of these Biblical heroes. Through reading the Old Testament, students will also gain an understanding that we are persons created in God’s image and that the Bible is a history of God’s merciful love. In addition, insights gained through the reading of Old Testament stories will be applied to the process of moral decision-making, thus helping students to learn to meet personal challenges with a clear and positive moral attitude.
GR 7: Study of the New Testament - This course features a survey of the Christian Scriptures with a focus on the life of Jesus and His teachings. Students will be challenged to recognize the impact that Jesus has had in this world and what He may mean to them personally. Gospel values and Catholic Social Teaching principles are explored and studied as a model for living a thoughtful and meaningful life. In addition, students are exposed to various forms of prayer, such as contemplative prayer, the examen, meditation, and praying the scriptures.
GR 8: Why We Believe - Grade 8 Religious Studies offers students an opportunity to examine and deepen their faith lives through discussion, reflection, service, and an active and thoughtful questioning process. With respect for all religious traditions and openness to the ideas of others, students explore the possibility of developing a real and personal relationship with God. Studies include a survey of world religions and an exploration of social justice, past, and present, with an emphasis on Catholic Social Teaching.
Sacred Heart Schools Atherton
Founded by the Society of the Sacred Heart, SHS is a Catholic, independent, co-ed day school for students in preschool through grade 12
