Academic Year 2007-08

This required course includes study of the stories and teachings of the Bible, elements of Christian worship, and Church history.

This year, primary-aged students (first and second grades in Semester One and third grade in Semester 2) have been studying Old Testament prophets such as Isaiah, Daniel, Elijah, Jonah, Esther, and others; New Testament emphasis has been on the moral teachings of Jesus. We have also had a unit on the vestments and altar items of the church. Most lessons involve a character or story from the Bible and a moral theme associated with that character. A small activity --such as a drawing, word puzzle or maze-- reinforces the main ideas of the lesson. Seasonal projects --such as for Christmas or Easter-- span two to four lessons.

Intermediate-age students (fourth grade) have been concentrating on the “Wisdom Books” of the Old Testament (Psalms, Proverbs, Job and others). Students have written their own psalms and prayers and have illustrated them using some of the techniques from the “illuminated manuscripts” of the early middle ages. In the New Testament, we have concentrated on the moral teachings of Jesus. Each lesson sounds its own individual theme associated with the Biblical passages being discussed. These themes are reinforced by activities which include, puzzles, word searches, skits, and journal entries. We also had a unit on the vestments and altar items of the church during which students will construct their own altars out of shoe boxes and various materials. The major project for the quarter is to write and produce an original play based on story from the Bible.

Activities for all students include art, skits, and projects that help to reinforce important Biblical values and help build character and leadership qualities.