Religions of the World

Selwyn Community Education is based at Selwyn College, Kohimarama, Auckland.

This course, new for 2021, presents information about five major belief systems in the world.

Course description
Experience the wisdom of the world’s five major religions and develop your own spiritual resources. This course combines theoretical, historical, and practical resources to connect you to divine energies in this world and beyond. In each session, we begin with the history and beliefs of the religion under discussion, before moving to practical exercises.

Expected learning outcomes
-Appreciate the diversities and similarities between world religions
-Develop spiritual resources to find peace and harmony in the world around you
-Apply wisdom from the five major religions to your daily life
-Have a spiritual toolbox of strategies to deal with human stresses

Course outline

Hinduism: Find peace through a change in perspective
-History
-What Hindus believe
-What humans want: What holds them back
-Spiritual path for your personality
-Practical exercises: Yoga breathing exercise

Buddism: Mindfulness
-History
-What Buddhists believe
-The middle way
-Seeds and barriers
-Noble truths and enlightenment
-Practical exercises: Mindfulness. Be present in the moment

Islam: Surrender to rhythm
-History
-What Muslims believe
-The rhythm of the Koran
-Surrender (commitment)
-5 pillars
-Practical exercises: 1. Applying symbolism to daily life 2. Sing or recite poem (depending on class preferences)

Judaism: To wrestle with God
-History
-What Jews believe
-Finding meaning in the reality of life through ritual
-The land and creation
-Practical exercises: Arguing with God. The concept of trial and divine gifts

Christianity: Connect to Christ consciousness
-History
-What Christians believe
-The power of the Holy Spirit: Spiritual rebirth
-Practical exercises: Make room for the non-physical (spirit) and the Christ in you

About tutor Marina Pasichnik
Marina has a doctorate in theology and degree qualifications in law, music, and teaching and has presented her research in New Zealand, Poland, Romania, and Russia. She enjoys giving public presentations.

Our mission is to provide quality affordable and accessible lifelong learning opportunities for our community.