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Adult
Curriculum
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Published in 1997 by UUA
Out-of-print, available from the LFD Loan Library |
Understanding the World's Religious
A Study Guide to Huston Smith's The World's ReligionsBy Gary Kowalski
- Theme and Description
- This study guide to Huston Smith’s classic work The World’s Religions (originally published in 1958 as The Religions of Man) follows its source—nine sessions for each nine chapters—offering suggested questions for discussion by a small group. Following up on our Unitarian Universalist tradition of interest in other religions, this guide offers anyone the chance to become better acquainted with the major faith traditions of the world.
- Goals for Participants
- To deepen their knowledge and understanding of world religion;
To become better acquainted with some of the ideas and beliefs expressed in the six sources of our living tradition, as expressed in Unitarian Universalism’s Principles and Purposes;
To glimpse the “transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures,” which is spoken of in the Principles and Purposes.
- Age Range
- Adult
- Size of Group
- Unspecified
- Space Requirements
- A room large enough for participants to sit in a circle and break into smaller groups, should the leaders or participants feel the need.
- Number and Length of Sessions
- 9 sessions
Length: 1 1/2 to 2 hours - Leader Training
- No special training in world religions is required; this program may be led by a minister, laypersons, or a combination. Co-leadership is recommended.
- Leader Preparation
- Familiarity with Huston Smith’s book as well as the study guide is necessary in advance of the course and week to week.
- Strengths
- Encourages exploration of different religions and cultures, which is directly related to the Unitarian Universalist principles “a free and responsible search for truth and meaning” and “encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations” and the religious pluralism espoused by the six Unitarian Universalist sources.
Openings and closings are taken from the scriptures or holy writings of the tradition being studied in that session.
Includes ample suggested questions for discussion.
Includes a list of outside resources, most of which are available through the UUA Bookstore. - Limitations
- Each participant must purchase a copy of The World’s Religions, by Huston Smith, as well as the Study Guide.
Required reading is not easy for all participants to complete in one week.
The course is limited by the focus and scope of Huston Smith’s book.
The number of learning modes employed in the Study Guide is limited largely to reading and discussing. The exercises in the Guide can be enhanced with music and foods from the religious and cultural traditions being explored, as well as field trips to houses of worship and presentations by practitioners. - Adaptability
- The discussion questions included in the study guide are only suggestions; if participants or leaders have any of their own to offer, they may be used as well.
- Unitarian Universalist Values
- From the Study Guide introduction: “Our Unitarian Universalist principles observe that our faith draws from many sources, including ‘that transcending mystery and wonder affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit, and an openness to the forces that create and uphold life.’” This curriculum discusses the correlations and discrepancies between Unitarian Universalism and other world religions in a way that engages and inspires an understanding of Unitarian Universalist values.
Reviewed on January 06, 2006
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Curricula
