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INTERRELIGIOUS RELATIONSHIPS The World Conference of Religions for Peace (WCRP) believes that interreligious relationships are the best way to bring people of different races, classes and cultures together around a common aim - NSC Religion Studies - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 5
INTERRELIGIOUS RELATIONSHIPS The World Conference of Religions for Peace (WCRP) believes that interreligious relationships are the best way to bring people of diffe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:INTERRELIGIOUS RELATIONSHIPS The World Conference of Religions for Peace (WCRP) believes that interreligious relationships are the best way to bring people of different races, classes and cultures together around a common aim - NSC Religion Studies - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Discuss FOUR ways in which interreligious relationships are fostered in South African schools.
Answer
In South African schools, interreligious relationships are fostered through several key ways:
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Inclusivity in Education: All schools in South Africa are mandated to be open and welcoming to learners of all races, creeds, and religions. This is safeguarded by the right to education enshrined in the South African Constitution. This inclusive approach fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
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Curriculum Inclusion: Religious Studies are part of the educational curriculum, promoting awareness and respect for various religious beliefs among students. This subject encourages students to explore different religions and cultures, thereby enhancing interreligious dialogue.
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Respect for Religious Practices: Both teachers and learners can observe their respective religious holidays without discrimination. This recognition of different faiths within the school environment enables students to learn about and appreciate religious diversity.
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Creative Arts Engagement: Schools incorporate Creative Arts in their curriculum, which serves as a platform for students to engage with different cultures and religions creatively. This can include festivals or events that celebrate diverse cultural heritages, further promoting interreligious understanding.
Step 2
Would you say that there are good interreligious relationships in present-day South Africa? Give reasons for your opinion.
Answer
Yes, there are good interreligious relationships in present-day South Africa for several reasons:
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Mutual Support and Respect: Since there is no official state religion, all religious groups enjoy equal support from the government, which encourages cooperation and mutual respect among different faiths.
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Interfaith Initiatives: Various organizations, such as the Religious Leader's Forum, promote interfaith dialogue and collaboration, working towards common goals and addressing social challenges together, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These initiatives indicate a commitment to fostering constructive interreligious relationships, although some exclusivity may exist.
Step 3
South Africa is a secular country and yet very religious. Explain this statement.
Answer
South Africa is classified as a secular country because there is a clear separation between religion and government. This means that religious beliefs do not directly influence how the government operates. However, it is also regarded as a very religious country, as the majority of its citizens identify with various religious groups. South Africa has numerous places of worship catering to the diverse range of faiths, reflecting its vibrant religious landscape despite its secular governance.
Step 4
List THREE achievements of EACH of the following African organisations: Programme for Christian-Muslim Relations in Africa (PROCMURA)
Answer
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Witness to the Gospel: PROCMURA engages in witness and advocacy in interfaith environments, promoting constructive engagement between Christians and Muslims.
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Educational Programs: The organization runs various programs directed at empowering women and youth through education and promoting peace within communities.
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Community Collaboration: PROCMURA actively fosters partnerships among Christian and Muslim communities, encouraging collaborative efforts for peace and mutual understanding.
Step 5
List THREE achievements of EACH of the following African organisations: Interfaith Action for Peace in Africa (IFAPA)
Answer
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Community Building: IFAPA brings together various religious communities, civil society, and government entities to promote peace and harmony across different faiths.
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Commissioning Meetings: The organization regularly holds meetings that involve religious leaders to address pressing issues related to interfaith cooperation and peace initiatives.
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Chapter Development: IFAPA focuses on establishing and registering national chapters to facilitate broader outreach and involvement in peace efforts.
Step 6
List THREE achievements of EACH of the following African organisations: African Council of Religious Leaders – Religions for Peace (ACRL-RFP)
Answer
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Principles of Social Justice: ACRL-RFP upholds the values of inter-religious dialogue, emphasizing principles like respect, solidarity, and subsidiarity among different faiths.
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Network Development: The organization fosters collaborative networks among multi-religious groups throughout Africa to enhance peacebuilding efforts.
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Community Engagement: They work towards engaging various religious communities in social issues and aid efforts, highlighting the importance of religious diversity in fostering peaceful coexistence.
Step 7
Write THREE principles of the Charter for Compassion.
Answer
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Reciprocity: The principle of treating others as one wishes to be treated, emphasizing empathy and understanding.
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Community Engagement: Encouraging people to work towards creating a sense of community that includes all individuals, irrespective of their background or belief.
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Active Compassion: Calling upon individuals to act with compassion in their daily lives and to confront injustice with a commitment to promoting peace.