Religion and Young People

Within this topic candidates should be familiar with the key teachings from the religion(s) studied and should be aware of how religious leaders and other faith members have interpreted these teachings and applied them to life in society today.

• birth and initiation ceremonies;
• the home, upbringing and spirituality and their role in decision-making and life choices, including formation of moral codes, relevance of religion;
• activities of faith groups for young people, e.g. youth groups such as Brigades, educating in the faith, Taize, Spring Harvest, worship, key celebrations and festivals;
• commitment – membership and / or coming of age ceremonies, e.g. confirmation, Bar / Bat Mitzvah;
• rights and responsibilities, including freedom of choice, relationships, rules;
• problems and benefits associated with belief and young people, including generation gap, marginalisation, peer pressure, secular society, empowerment, purpose, brotherhood;
• role of schools, including Religious Studies, assemblies, faith schools.