Religious Studies

This course begins with an introduction to the history and traditions of Saint Francis High School, including its founding congregation, Holy Cross, and patron saint Francis of Assisi. Students then examine adolescence, and some of the ways our culture impacts teenage development. The course continues with an examination of religion in general, followed by a complete survey of the beliefs and practices of Catholic Christianity. The roots of our Judeo-Christian heritage, from the perspectives of the Jewish Scriptures, are also studied. This course also includes an analysis of, and strategies to deal successfully with, the challenging issues of drugs, alcohol, and sexual pressures. A freshman retreat experience and Christian service with reflection are integral parts of the course.

This course investigates the New Testament with particular emphasis on the Gospels. Students will analyze the background and formation of the four Gospels. Christian service with reflection is integral to this course.

This course on faith-based living centers on the Bible and concepts included in the text Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens. Students will learn to identify, incorporate and internalize these habits into their lives through a journey of self-discovery, reflection, and application. Adolescent issues covered in this course include self-esteem, responsible decision-making, healthy relationships, and the over-riding call of personal integrity. Students will also explore and apply related concepts found in Paul’s epistles and various New Testament writings, making connections between personal faith and the call to live out this faith in the community.

This course presents Catholic Morality through an examination of principles, values, and a thorough decision-making model. Students explore contemporary moral problems, including abortion, euthanasia, pre-marital sex, and biomedical ethics. Christian service with reflection is integral to this course.

This course presents the social teachings of the Church and the impact they have had on the faithful and the larger society. Contemporary social questions are analyzed, guided by Catholic social principles. Christian service with reflection is integral to this course.

This course focuses on a more mature understanding and practice of the Catholic Faith through study and discussion of Christian values in dating, marriage, the single life, and religious life. Christian service with reflection is integral to this course.

This course investigates the great "God Questions" such as the goal of creation, the meaning of suffering, and why many deny the existence of God. Religious Bodies, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other Eastern traditions are studied with a view to challenging and enhancing the student's own faith. Christian service with reflection is integral to this course.

This course explores the live stories of contemporary Christians, with concentration on both the commonalties and uniqueness found in us all. Students will study the ways in which people experience God, respond in faith, and grow spiritually. Insights and writings on theology, spirituality, and psychology will be used. Christian service with reflection is integral to the course.

This course presents a challenging exploration of the roots and development of different aspects of modern western thought and the impact of certain philosophical ideas upon Christianity. It traces certain thematic topics such as the nature of God, the human soul, social responsibility, and death through several historical eras in which western thinking experienced revolutionary changes. Class discussions, exploration of traditional debates, and written analysis of ideas and personalities in philosophy challenge the student to learn and think critically. Christian service with reflection is integral to this course.

This course introduces the student to the rich history of the Roman Catholic Church from the time of St. Paul up to the present liturgical reforms. The approach of this course will be that of a major figures course. The students will come to understand the history of our tradition through the narratives of selected “saints & sinners.” Linkages will be made to witness the fulfillment of the Church’s mission through the triumphs and tribulations of the Church’s history. The course will also promote the ultimate mission of today’s Church, to teach God's Word, to celebrate the mysteries of the Faith, and to serve the people of God. Christian service is integral to this course.

An exploration of the mystery of worship, the Catholic sacramental tradition and the Church's liturgy, specifically the Mass. Through study and practical experience students will grow in a lived understanding of personal and universal meanings of worship and sacrament. The course includes classroom work on the history, theology, and spirituality of communal worship; students develop practical and creative skills through preparation of and ministry within school liturgies.