Meaning and Purpose
What are some significant life events that lead people to question the meaning and purpose of life?
Birth, development into adulthood, marriage, death, illness, and personal lifestyle changes.
What is the definition of religion?
A set of beliefs and practices about the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, often involving worship of a higher power and a moral code.
What is a religious belief and how does it guide people’s lives?
A conviction about a religious truth that explains life’s purpose and how people should behave; it guides moral decisions and faith practice.
When did Catholicism first arrive in Australia and under what circumstances?
It arrived with the First Fleet in 1788 through Irish convicts and soldiers, but was restricted until 1820 when official priests were appointed.
What is Catholic Social Teaching based on?
Scripture, Church tradition, and the dignity of every human person.
What is meant by “human heart questions”?
The deep personal questions that arise within people’s hearts, prompting them to seek meaning, purpose, and connection with God
What is the difference between religion and spirituality?
Religion is collective and follows shared beliefs and traditions; spirituality is individual and focuses on personal connection and self-discovery.
What is meant by God’s self-revelation?
The way God makes Himself known to humanity through creation, Scripture, and most fully through Jesus Christ.
What challenges did early Australian Catholics face in practising their faith?
They lacked priests, churches, and freedom to worship; many faced prejudice from the Protestant majority and harsh treatment by authorities.
What is meant by “Human Dignity” in CST?
Every person is made in the image of God and deserves respect and equality.
How do experiences of creation lead people to question life’s meaning?
The wonder of creation can lead people to think about the existence of a being greater than themselves.
What is a religious belief and how is it expressed?
A conviction about a religious truth that explains humanity’s purpose; expressed through rituals, teachings, and practices.
What does it mean when we say “Jesus is the Redeemer”?
Jesus freed humanity from sin through his Passion, Death, and Resurrection.
Who was Ursula Frayne and what did she contribute to Catholic education in Australia?
A Sister of Mercy who established Perth’s first convent and secondary school, providing education for both Catholic and non-Catholic children.
What is the difference between social justice and charitable works?
Social justice changes systems and addresses root causes; charitable works meet immediate needs.
How does conscience help people recognise God’s presence?
Conscience is where a person is “alone with God,” and through it, they recognise signs of the divine and are guided by God’s voice.
What are religious rituals and why are they important in Catholic faith?
Rituals use symbolic actions, gestures, and words to express faith, helping people enter into the mystery of their beliefs.
What role does the Church play in the redemption of humanity?
Through the sacraments (especially Baptism, Eucharist, and Reconciliation), the Church continues Jesus’ work of redemption.
What role did Catherine McAuley play in Australian Catholicism?
founded the Sisters of Mercy, providing education and care to poor children and women
How does the Catholic Church respond to the issue of refugees?
Promotes compassion, human dignity, and solidarity; supports asylum seekers through advocacy groups like CAPSA and ACMRO.
How do religions respond to people’s search for meaning and purpose?
Religions provide teachings, scripture, moral guidance, worship, and communities to help people find meaning and strengthen their relationship with God.
How does religion develop and why are there different world religions?
Religions develop differently because people experience and interpret the divine in various ways; human limitations cause misunderstanding and differences.
How does the belief in Jesus as Redeemer influence the way Catholics live their faith today?
Catholics believe Jesus’ redemption frees them from sin and calls them to live lives of love, forgiveness, and service. This belief inspires participation in sacraments (especially Eucharist and Reconciliation), acts of charity, and moral choices that reflect Christ’s sacrifice and compassion.
How did Catholicism in Australia change from the 19th to the 20th century?
It grew rapidly through migration, new parishes, and schools; became multicultural and lay-led by the late 20th century.
How do CST principles like “Preferential Option for the Poor” and “Solidarity” apply to modern issues?
They call Catholics to put the needs of the poor first and work together for justice and the common good, especially regarding refugees and inequality.