Religious Studies

The Religious Studies Department seeks to reinforce St. John’s mission to educate the whole student – intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. We believe a student enriches his education when theological exploration is part of his experience, and when he engages his mind and imagination. With this two-part goal in mind, the Religious Studies program supports rigorous academic learning and provides opportunity for meaningful experiential learning.

Grounded in critical thinking and personal reflection, the Religious Studies curriculum provides a theological foundation to better inform the student’s faith experience. Each student is encouraged to respond to course material by: 1.) discovering the mystery of God in his life and in the life of his greater community; 2.) pursuing meaningful relationships, both in and out of the classroom; 3.) committing himself to the pursuit of justice and peace 4.) honoring diversity and multiculturalism; 5.) deepening his spiritual life through scripture and prayer; and 6.) developing his character by asking what it means to live an ethical life.

Religious Studies 6

Jesus—Carpenter and Christus

This special interdisciplinary classics/religious studies course focuses on the student’s discovery and exploration of the mystery of God in his own life. In response to the profound Catholic Christian faith story of the humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ, students examine sacred scripture, nurture critical thinking skills, engage in prayerful reflection, and delve into the art of storytelling to inspire their own personal faith exploration.

As they investigate the vocabulary and structure of the Latin language, students enhance their facility with English, allowing them to communicate with nuance, develop a robust vocabulary, and participate in sophisticated discourse. Throughout the course, students: 1.) examine the distinction between “history book history” and “faith history,” and in doing so are encouraged to recognize and celebrate their own growing faith history; 2.) consider the ubiquity of Latin throughout the Mediterranean and the Middle East and its affiliation with other ancient languages, most notably as they communicate, and contribute to, our understanding of faith history; 3.) examine the diverse social, cultural and religious conditions of the early Roman Empire that gave rise to the historical figure of Jesus of Nazareth; and, 4.) be challenged to consider and respond to the profound Christian belief in Jesus Christ as the Divine Son of God. Throughout this journey of thought and faith, the diversity of each student’s religious background is celebrated and understood to enhance all religious experience.

Religious Studies 7

Grade 7 Religious Studies (Exploring the Call to Serve - Prophets Past & Present)

During this course, students will deliberately explore the concepts of Servant Leadership and Prophethood by looking at examples of Prophethood in the Bible, the history and charism of the Xaverian Brothers, and the call of Catholic Social Teaching in relation to social justice issues. Included in these discussions are in-depth explorations of issues related to human dignity, the impact of poverty, and the concept of stewardship for our Earth as it is outlined by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops and lived into by the mission of the Xaverian Brotherhood. Students will be empowered to think deeply, learn to engage in open dialogue, and grow their academic and social-emotional skills.

Religious Studies 8

Appreciating A World of Faith—World Religions

In Grade 8 Religious Studies, students are invited to explore the many dimensions of religion through exposure to the traditions and spiritual paths that exist around our world. Rooted in the explorative nature of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, students are invited to gain insight into the faiths of others so that they can develop their own spiritual understandings. By the end of the course, students will grow in their religious literacy as citizens of the world and develop the skills necessary to respectfully engage with traditions and cultures that are not their own while also deepening their own personal faiths.

"The Church esteems the ways in which God works in other religions, and rejects nothing of what is true and holy in these religions. She has a high regard for their manner of life and conduct, their precepts and doctrines which… often reflect a ray of that truth which enlightens all men and women”. - Pope Francis (Fratelli Tutti, 277)

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