From service opportunities, to studying religious leaders and Biblical heroes, learning about the differences and similarities of world religions, to supporting individual spiritual growth and promoting peace, Canterbury’s religion program makes an impact on the daily lives of students. While the school is non-denominational, the founders felt it was important it be grounded in Christian principles. In doing so, the school focuses on teaching values and helping students to grow in spirit.
The basic principle of religion classes is to present students with the underlying issues, themes, beliefs and practices common to many religions. The Canterbury community is made up of many religions including Hindu, Muslim, Jewish and Christian. With this in mind, classes are respectful of diversity and do not teach doctrine. Religion classes also are seen as a way to address ethical situations and personal beliefs from an intellectual perspective.
High School students are required to take Religion 9 and Religion 10. Religion 9 focuses on discussions of honesty, the Honor Code and relationships with family and friends. Students also delve into issues such as capital punishment, media influence and rumors. In Religion 10 students learn about different religious viewpoints by studying major figures of world religions. Additionally representatives from various faiths are invited in to answer questions from students.
All seniors take Senior Seminar and Humanities. This course includes one quarter of ethics and one quarter of diversity, plus a semester-long humanities course in one of the Social Studies or English department electives.