Religion and Spirituality: Why Religious Educators Need to Note the Difference Dr Marian de Souza Presentation by: Paul Castelli

Key Insights Religion, as it stands in relation to spirituality, needs to live within new frameworks of meaning that are adaptive and responsive to the contemporary world. Spirituality and religion are completely different. – awareness of and respect for these differences allow for meaningful connection.

Key Insights (cont.) Spirituality more encompassing than religion. – Religion = one human framework to express our spirituality An individual’s thoughts & actions – What is inside will show outside Connectedness with the “Other” manifests externally

Connections O’Murchu – “Quantum Theology” (1997) – at an atomic level – where connection and relation exist = where God is De Souza – Spirituality seeks the ‘Other’ – Authentic connection brings awareness Ranson’s Cycle of Spirituality (2002) – Spirituality/Religion – cannot exist in fullness without the other Rolheiser (1997) – The fire within – eros – how we channel this = spirituality – An individual’s spirituality will be expressed Manifested through individual’s formation

Implications for Religious Education the classroom Formal learning + associated rigor Classrooms should be places of; – Connection, empathy and compassion – Shared story – Silence, contemplation – Other views explored for commonality & difference – An intent to BE HERE NOW to appreciate moments of awe – Places of balance Curriculum and connection Focus and contemplation Spirituality and Religion

References Rolheiser, R. (1999). What is spirituality? In The Holy Longing (pp ). New York: Doubleday Ranson, D. (2002). Across the Great Divide: Bridging Spirituality and Religion Today. Strathfield: St Pauls Publications De Souza, M. (2009). Religion and spirituality: why religious educators need to note the difference. Religious Education Journal of Australia, 25(1), 3-10 O’Murchu, D. (2004). Quantum Theology: spiritual implications of the new physics. New York: The Crossroad Publishing Company