Religious Studies

Introduction to Catholic Christianity

This course provides an overview of Catholicism and engages students of all backgrounds in a meaningful study of the faith tradition and the SSND charism that together underlie their education at Holy Angels. Through familiarity with the foundations of the faith and by acquiring a common vocabulary, students are better able to engage in the academic study of the tradition as well as enter into the nonacademic faith aspects of the school community.

Old Testament Studies

In this course students will explore the major divisions of the Old Testament and individual Biblical figures’ own relationship with God, as well as delve into significant scriptural themes such as God’s love for all of creation, forgiveness, and salvation. An examination of the Hebrew Scriptures from multiple perspectives guides students to a better understanding of the values, practices, and beliefs that form the basis of the Judeo-Christian Tradition.       

Jesus and the Gospels 

This course invites students to understand the humanity and divinity of Jesus through a study of the Gospels and an exploration of the historical, religious, and cultural world into which Jesus was born. In addition to discussing Jesus’ life, ministry, and message, the course will examine the central significance of his death and resurrection in Catholic teaching.  

World Religions

In this course, students explore the primary texts, history, beliefs, rituals, and symbols of a range of religious traditions from both East and West. In keeping with the global vision of the SSND, students use this foundational knowledge to cultivate understanding and respect for the diversity of the world’s religions and cultures.

Morality

This course explores Catholic moral teaching, framed by an awareness of the universal nature of morality.  It studies the process of decision-making, presents a theology of love and redemption, and invites students to conversation around the teachings of the Catholic Church on a variety of moral issues.

Senior Seminar: Faith & Meaning 

In this seminar, students will consider the role of faith in everyday life and decision-making. Drawing on the idea of Christian vocation, the course brings anthropology, sociology, and psychology into conversation with the religious dimension. Students will explore the Gospel imperative to love and apply the SSND values of unity and justice to the context of contemporary life.

Senior Seminar: Peace & Justice Studies

In this seminar, students will explore the meaning of the Gospel call to be people of justice and peace. Using the framework of Catholic Social Teaching and in line with the SSND charism, the course will examine the individual and corporate responsibility to establish justice as well as raise awareness of the network of injustice and oppression that impede the Christian task of building a global community. In addition, students will connect justice with the call to be peacemakers by studying the lives of modern-day peacemakers, learning about the strategies of nonviolent social movements, and developing personal peacemaking skills.

In addition to the required courses in the religious studies curriculum, the department also offers an elective course for seniors.

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Ethical Issues in Today’s World

This class will address the meaning, foundations, and requirements of ethics in general, building on the material covered in the Morality course.  Students will then explore units in business ethics, medical ethics, and ethics in a technological age using practical current case studies.  Focus on decision-making and discernment will serve students as they encounter dilemmas in both their personal and professional lives.