Studying Various Religions

The class started today, learning about other religions The curriculum will teach me so much I didn't know even about my own religion, Christianity! By studying other religions I will be taking a stronger stance regarding my Christian convictions. For that I am grateful.

The class is titled, Passionately Christian, Compassionately Interreligious with the above book required reading, our main text. However, the teacher promises extra resources which I relish.

The introduction has already challenged my belief system. It is hard for me to accept that every single human being in another religious element will go to hell. That is not where the book begins but it has taken my thoughts there.  I shall never forget visiting a Unity church in Coeur d' Alene once and before I was seated, the lady usher informed me, "We do not believe in a hell."

The class is lengthy, twelve weeks covering the largest eight religions in the world. 

Class introductions took up most of the first week's assignment. Then watching videos by Dr. Sathi Clarke was inviting and very informative. I now have downloaded a worksheet outlining six dominant categories to understand other traditions. For example, #1 is to determine the Supreme Being or principle within the specific religion. What instills meaning and gives value to a particular religion?

Yes, I anticipate that this course will demand focusing and wrapping my brain around ideas and principles new to me.

Hang in there, Joan, are my thoughts this morning.