Adult Lecture Series
2024-2025
Prospect High School
Adult Lecture Series
7:00-8:30pm in Room 157
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
An Introduction to Religious Studies:
Theories, Methods, the Constitution, and the Landscape of Religion in America
SUMMARY: Delve into the rich and complex world of religious studies. Explore the diverse range of theories and methods that scholars utilize to understand the intricacies of religious belief and practice. Uncover the historical context of religious freedom in the US Constitution and gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted religious landscape that shapes American society.
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
An Introduction to Hindu Traditions:
Dharma, Karma, and the Pollution of the
Ganges River Basin
SUMMARY: Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Hindu traditions. Delve into the profound concepts of dharma and karma and explore their significance in shaping ethical and moral principles. Learn about the challenges facing the sacred Ganges River Basin and the complex interplay between religious practices and environmental concerns.
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
An Introduction to Buddhist Traditions:
The Marathon Monks of Mt. Hiei and the
Human Cost of Seeking Enlightenment
SUMMARY: Immerse yourself in the contemplative world of Buddhist traditions. Discover the practices of the Marathon Monks of Mt. Hiei in Japan, who undertake an extraordinary journey of spiritual endurance. Reflect on the sacrifices accompanying the pursuit of enlightenment, which shed light on the profound depths of Buddhist philosophy.
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
An Introduction to Jewish Traditions:
The Mourners Kaddish, Scribes, and the
Shifting Roles of Orthodox Women
SUMMARY: Delve into the rich tapestry of Jewish traditions, exploring the ritual of the Mourners Kaddish and gain insights into the artistry of scribes, who meticulously transcribe sacred texts. Examine the evolving roles of women as they navigate modernity while honoring centuries-old traditions.
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
A Dynamic Understanding of Jesus:
Biblical Archaeology & Interpretations of
the Christianity Movement
SUMMARY: Journey through time to explore the historical figure of Jesus. Engage with the fascinating field of biblical archaeology, uncovering artifacts and evidence that shed light on the life and times of Jesus. Examine contemporary interpretations of Jesus' teachings and their enduring impact on the course of history and human spirituality.
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
An Introduction to Islamic Traditions:
Space Travel, Fatwas, and the Dynamic
Nature of Religious Requirements
SUMMARY: Discover the dynamic facets of Islamic traditions by exploring the intersection of prayer, faith, and science through the lens of space travel and the world of fatwas. Engage with the adaptive nature of Islamic religious requirements in response to evolving circumstances.
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
An Introduction to Atheistic Traditions:
The Great Lisbon Earthquake and the
European Enlightenment Explosion
SUMMARY: Unearth the historical context of atheistic traditions by investigating the Great Lisbon Earthquake in 1755 and its role in catalyzing the European Enlightenment Explosion. Explore the intellectual currents that shaped modern atheism and its influence on human thought.
Starting in 2015, I developed a lecture series for the parents of our students and adults in our community. I wanted each family to have the opportunity to study together, and the results have been incredible. Most adults in our community are only familiar with devotional approaches to religion, which are constitutionally inappropriate for our public school classroom.
Our classes expose students to diverse religious views but never impose a particular perspective, and our parents learn this importance right away.
Unlike most subjects taught in public schools, religious studies as a discipline is almost unheard of amongst parents and community members. For those of us who teach the subject, we often face questions from parents and religious community members about the content of the curriculum and students' rights. If not addressed correctly, these community controversies can undermine the political will needed to support religious studies education in public schools.
In 2019, the National Summit on Religion and Education affirmed this language and the full report can be downloaded here.
