Religion

The Religion program aims to provide to students both theological knowledge and a reflective attitude toward God, self, and others. Based on the framework developed by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the curriculum presents the fundamental truths of the Catholic faith. These truths are explored with a view towards forming young men of faith concerned with charity and justice, contributing positively to the world. Additionally, students also learn about the charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. Scripture, prayer, and community service are also integral parts of each course, fostering the student’s holistic development.

Courses:

Religion 8 Religion I Religion II Religion III Religion IV

Religion 8

Religion 8

Religion 8 (2700) begins with an introduction of the history and spirituality of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, providing our newest Crusaders with an understanding of the rich heritage of Brother Martin High School and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in New Orleans and around the world. The course then transitions to its primary curriculum: God’s Revelation through Sacred Scripture. Beginning with a person’s natural instinct to search for God, students explore the topics such as natural and divine revelation, as well as, inspiration, biblical exegesis, and the development of the Bible’s canon. The course explores salvation history, covering the overarching narrative of the Old and New Testaments with a particular focus on Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of our salvation.

Religion I

Religion I (2710) Christology/Salvation History

In the first semester, students delve into the mystery of Jesus Christ. They will explore the New Testament, the history of Jesus’s people, the events of Jesus’s life, his teaching, the Paschal Mystery, beliefs about him through the ages, and his relevance for today. The second semester deepens this understanding of Jesus Christ and focuses on divine revelation, the Trinity, the Incarnation, salvation, and discipleship in response to God’s love. The goal of discipleship is a life of grace and holiness and a share in God’s everlasting kingdom.

Religion II

Religion II (2720) Ecclesiology/Sacraments

In the first semester, students deepen their understanding of Jesus Christ, the fullness of God’s Revelation, through his presence in the living Body of Christ, the Church. The course emphasizes recognizing Christ’s presence and activity in their lives through the mission of the Church, defined by her four marks: one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. The second semester focuses on the sacraments as the definitive way to participate in the life of Christ. Students explore the theological meaning, biblical foundations, and historical development of the sacraments. This course also includes a section of Theology of the Body, helping students understand the sacred significance of their sexuality as a good and essential part of life and love.

Religion III

Religion III (2730) Personal Morality/Social Justice

The first semester addresses the foundations of ethics and contemporary moral issues from a Catholic perspective. The course helps students develop and implement an ethical approach to decision-making and critically form their consciences. The second semester explores social justice issues through an in-depth exploration of Catholic social teaching. This course challenges students to apply Catholic social principles holistically to their lives, society, and the world. Students will also apply and reflect on these concepts in their own community service experiences.

Religion IV

Religion IV (2740) World Religions/Christian Vocations

In the first semester, students examine how the Catholic Church relates to non-Catholic Christians and other world religions. Building on the foundational truth that Jesus Christ established the Catholic Church and entrusted to her the fullness of God’s Revelation, the course helps students recognize important spiritual values in non-Catholic Christian churches and other religions while also understanding their differences from Catholicism. The Christian vocations component focuses on the various ways individuals are called to live out their Catholic faith. Emphasis is placed on how a Christian lifestyle best fosters personal wholeness and spiritual holiness. The course explores the four Catholic vocations: married life, single life, ordained life, and religious life, utilizing the Theology of the Body curriculum. Particular study is given to the Sacraments of Matrimony and Holy Orders.