1. The Religious Impulse Homework

2. Chapter 1 Terms– Define using textbook
Theology
Agnostic
Monotheism
Atheist
Polytheism
Devil
Humanism/Humanist
Ethics
Credo
Evolutionary
Sacred
Soul
Secular
Spiritual
Ritual
Pagan
Bias
Faith

3. Christmas: Secular Vs. Sacred
North American culture is clearly more secular than sacred, though there are sacred elements- Christmas Example: Activity- have students brainstorm what is secular about Christmas and what is sacred about Christmas
Sacred- Birth of Jesus Christ, The founder of Christianity, Jesus born to Mary and Joseph in town of Bethlehem (Stable), Attended by shepherds and 3 wise men
Secular- Presents (Material), Santa Claus- no connection to Jesus Christ, Saint Nicholas had origins in Turkey as the Patron Saint of Children, Stockings and Gifts brought to North America by Dutch Settlers
Christians- Importance of this Holy event might be smothered by commercialism
Ex. England- the season is referred to as “Winter Val” to render it more open to other faiths and traditions
Discussion: Which view of Christmas most closely represents your personal view?