Down 1. Humanists say that this can be used to mislead and exploit gullible people. 2. Humanists say that we can find this if we are tolerant, generous and respectful towards one another.
3. It is now a minority religion in much of Europe. 4. They now form the third largest religious group in Ireland. 6. Humanists say that this must be decided by reason alone, without reference to God. 8. It means unfair treatment under the law. 9. This kind of violence happens when your places of worship are attacked. 12. They say that there is no way for us to know if God exists or not. 14. Humanists say that it is not there to be discovered. Each of us must make it for ourselves. 15. Means respecting the rights of others to hold beliefs different from your own.
4. Think about it!
(a) Think about the following survey findings: ¢ Despite a steep decline in weekly church attendance, a sizeable number of Europeans still attend carol services at Christmas.
¢ Significant numbers of Europeans still travel to places of pilgrimage such as to the Marian Shrine at Lourdes in France, or they follow the Camino (i.e. the Walk) to the shrine of St. James at Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
¢ Since their use as backing tracks to popular computer games, CDs of religious music (especially Gregorian chant) have been bestsellers in many European countries in recent years.
1. In each of these examples, say why you think this is the case. 2. What does this say about how many Europeans view the role of religion in their lives today?
(b) Here are five reasons often given for the general decline in religious belief and practice in Ireland: ¢ The loss of social supports ¢ The range of choice ¢ The rise of materialism ¢ The challenge of science ¢ The impact of scandals.
1. Which one of these do you think has had the most impact? 2. Why do you think so?
