Interreligious Study- 1st Paper

Has it become clear to you what we mean when we use the term religion?
Based on the article by Thomas Idinopulos, there are many probable definitions
of religion as the study of religion is the study of what is observable and that includes
historical knowledge of rituals, mythologies; religious communities, ideas, teachings,
institutions, arts and architecture. Religion may mean the fetishism, animism,
polytheism and monotheism of the known historic religions. The above-mentioned
article also mentions that religion has a host of observable psychological, social,
aesthetic and moral functions. Religion is also defined as energy, faith, vision,
transcendence, and the will to love in relation to it. And in our class discussion, we
defined religion as the reality upon which our reality depends. It has become clear to me
that religion is the reality of my faith which clearly shows me where I can start and move
forward in a secure way of relating to someone whom I believe is guiding and
accompanying in my life’s journey. It has also become clear to me that I should not
define religion using the word “God” because it might be taken as disrespectful of non-
Christian religions.

Do you agree that the term religion is difficult and confusing?

At first, I did really agree that the term religion was difficult and confusing, considering
that on page 5 of the book we are using, it is stated that, the difficulty in understanding
religion arises over the issue of values. Scholars and teachers of religion like to believe
that there is a specific beneficial religious value not in conflict with other values.
However, in reality the term religion is not difficult and confusing if I consider the context
and the reality of the person or community as the bases in defining or understanding the
term. I am not so sure if I fully understand the term religion, but what I am sure of is that,
after our class discussion and with the explanations I have listened to, I have learned to
appreciate more my own religion which is Christianity. I find myself eager to deepen and
know and research more about my religion which most of the time I have taken for
granted. I am also led to see and value the beauty of each religion I know. I appreciate
more the mystery behind the term religion in my life.
Why is it important to study religion and religions? For the studies of other
religions, for the study of bible and theology

Studying religion and religions for me is very essential for my formation and growth as a
human being and as a consecrated person. It gives me knowledge that helps me
deepen my faith, check my beliefs and widen my world in which I live in diverse realities.
I understand that religion is not only an institution or group of people coming together to
worship but the person himself or herself. It helps me to understand people around me,
especially those who are different from me in beliefs. My study of other religions helps
me see the similarities of my faith and belief with theirs. It helps me find ways how to
connect with them without fear or hesitation that conflict or misunderstanding may arise
because of differences. It helps me also lessen my judgement and increase my
understanding of and appreciation for other religions. As a student studying theology
and bible, I consider it important to study about religion and religions because
somebody might ask me about these things; at least, I would be able to share my
knowledge about them. I think this study is also a good foundation for interreligious
dialogue which I consider as one of my responsibilities as a religious committed to give
witness to the all-embracing love of God, share with others God’s peace and mercy,
and spread His Kingdom to all.

Do you think it is important to study this subject?

Yes, I think it is important to study this subject, because it enlightens my understanding

about religion, about my faith, my reality as a person, my relationship with God and with
my sisters and the people I encounter every day. It helps lessen my judgmental attitude
and leads me into a deep awareness of myself and my faith, as well as of the people,
and of the world I am in. It helps me know other religions and their beliefs. It frees me
also from ignorance of such matters as the meaning of religion, the function or essence
of religion in my life, how it will help me grow as a person, loving and understanding my
brothers and sisters.

What do you think is the goal of religion in general?

I think the goal of religion, in general, is to make us one, united in spite our differences.
It is to lead us to have a deeper understanding of what life is and to give honor, praise,
glory and thanksgiving to the one who created all and is the source of all the gifts that
we are enjoying.

Realizations:

As I am doing this assignment, I cannot stop myself from feeling amazed and grateful,
and I continue wondering at the mystery of my vocation, my life, my faith, and my belief
that leads me where I am now. I am privileged to have this opportunity to study and
learn, question and be a recipient of the knowledge, wisdom, reflection and being of my
professor. I believe that the knowledge, learning, information, wisdom, reflection, etc.,
which I am getting from this class will help me to deepen my relationship with Jesus
whom I follow, to be rooted in my faith and have reconciliation, peace and
understanding with others so that I can become the person God wants me to be.

My reading the articles has also led me to be aware of my cultural background, my

beliefs, and the rituals and practices that I have as a Christian. It leads me to the
question: Does it help me appreciate my own religion, the people around me and my
own self, and God whom I believe. The term religion has no definite meaning, but I
know it exists and it leads me to be connected with God and others, and moves me to
deepen my relationship with my God. I will continue to show my gratitude for the
benefits I have received by sharing what I am learning in this class with the people I
encounter every day, by being more loving and respectful to all, and by serving as an
instrument of peace and unity in diversity.

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