Early Colonial Religion
What year did Christianity first arrive in Australia with the First Fleet?
1788
Which church first took responsibility for educating children in the new colony?
The Church of England
Which political party were most Catholics aligned with during this time?
The Labor Party
Which Archbishop strongly opposed conscription during World War I?
Archbishop Daniel Mannix
What are the four main categories used to describe the role religion plays in society?
Religious, Social, Political, and Cultural
Name one of the three main Christian traditions brought to Australia by early settlers.
Anglicanism, Evangelical Protestantism, or Catholicism
What major act passed by Henry Parkes in 1880 changed Catholic education in Australia?
The Public Instruction Act
What was the political stance of most Protestants?
Conservative, supporting non-Labor political parties
What event in 1962 highlighted the financial struggles of Catholic schools?
The Goulburn School Strike
What is meant by the religious role of religion in society?
It involves guiding people’s faith, beliefs, worship, and connection with the divine.
Why were Catholic convicts forced to attend Church of England services?
Because the Church of England was the state religion and attendance was enforced by law
Name two Catholic religious orders that helped establish schools during this period.
The Good Samaritan Sisters, Sisters of St Joseph, Christian Brothers
What major national event occurred on January 1, 1901, uniting the colonies?
Federation of Australia
How did post–World War II migration affect the Catholic Church in Australia?
It grew rapidly with many European Catholic immigrants
How does religion play a social role in society?
By building community, providing support networks, and helping people find belonging and meaning.
What was the main role of the Church of England in colonial society?
To impose moral order and provide education
Why did the Catholic Church oppose secular public schooling?
Because it didn’t include Catholic doctrine or religious instruction
What civil liberty were Catholics denied until the 1930s?
The right to hold public office
In what decade did Vietnamese Catholic refugees begin arriving in Australia?
The 1970s
How can religion have a political role in society?
By influencing policies, laws, and ethical debates — for example, on issues like education, social justice, or life ethics.
Who was Archbishop John Bede Polding, and what was his significant contribution?
The first Catholic bishop (appointed 1835) who tried to establish missions for Aboriginal people
How did Catholic schools manage to stay open despite financial hardship?
They relied on unpaid labour from members of religious orders
How did Federation reflect the influence of Christianity in society?
Many church leaders wanted Australia to be formed as a “Christian nation”
What major international church event (1962–1965) modernised Catholic worship practices?
The Second Vatican Council (Vatican II)
How does religion shape the cultural life of a society?
Through rituals, celebrations, art, music, language, and traditions that express shared identity and values.