Religion

Religious Studies I (CP) – 9th

1.0 credit

Prerequisite: none

Freshman Religion includes a general overview of Catholic Christianity and the Traditions that are espoused at Loyola College Prep. Topics and subjects covered include: Biblical interpretation; Old and New Testament typology; The Mass; the introductory History, Structure, Traditions and Practices of the Catholic Church; Sacraments; Personal Responsibility; Morality; Decision Making; and Prayer.

Religious Studies II (CP) – 10th 
1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Religious Studies I

Sophomore Religion focuses semester one on the Paschal Mystery of Christ: His Passion, Death, Resurrection and Ascension. Semester two covers the Roman Catholic Church and its mission as a holy, catholic, and apostolic church. Course objectives are to enrich the students’ knowledge of the saving redemption of Christ’s Paschal Mystery and how the Roman Catholic Church is built on his foundation. We explore scripture, official Vatican documents, Catholic life, faith and modern culture, spiritual practices, and the examples of the Saints that go before us.

Religious Studies III (CP) – 11th                                                                         1.0 credit 
Prerequisite: Religious Studies II

Junior Religion focuses semester one on Our Moral Life in Christ. A well-formed conscience is essential to make moral decisions. This class aids the formation of our consciences by presenting an overview of the moral teachings of the Catholic Church. Following the Ten Commandments as elevated and perfected by Jesus Christ and the Beatitudes, it shows how we, aided by God’s grace, can imitate the life of Christ in every circumstance of our lives. It examines topics relevant to social justice and the sacredness of human life.

Semester two covers ecumenism and interreligious dialogue. We will examine the teachings of the Catholic Faith on God’s desire to unite all humanity to Himself and each other through His Church. Focusing primarily on the Catechism and the documents of the Second Vatican Council, it includes both ecumenism—action toward reuniting separated Christians—and interfaith dialogue—relations with non-Christians.

Religious Studies IV (CP) – 12th 
1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Religious Studies III

Senior Religion’s objective is to educate and encourage students to view theology from a mature perspective, incorporating knowledge into comprehension with appropriate application for adulthood. We focus on elevating their ability to evaluate the world around them and determine the criteria that must be met to ensure a productive, positive life that does not conflict with the dogmas and doctrines of their Faith. Subjects include the teaching of Catholic Social Justice, History of the Church, Review of Dogma and Doctrine of Catholic Christianity, and the creation of an Adult Christian Life Style. Strong emphasis is placed on respecting other faiths, ideals, and philosophies. Sophomore Religion focuses semester one on the Paschal Mystery of Christ: His Passion, Death, Resurrection and Ascension. Semester two covers the Roman Catholic Church and its mission as a holy, catholic, and apostolic church. Course objectives are to enrich the students’ knowledge of the saving redemption of Christ’s Paschal Mystery and how the Roman Catholic Church is built on his foundation. We explore scripture, official Vatican documents, Catholic life, faith and modern culture, spiritual practices, and the examples of the Saints that go before us.