Orthodox and Roman Catholic Christianity

School Library Journal (September 1999)

Gr 9 Up-Each of these informative and interesting productions factually, and without judgment or bias, explicates the history, founding leader(s) and cultural influences of these religions. Clear line art, representative art work, on-site footage of worshippers, vintage footage originally used in entertainment films to portray the religions, and soundbites/interviews with followers, theologians, professors and clergy add color and content. Holidays and rituals are given prominence. Clear narration is provided by Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley who gives necessary background information and provides the continuity for the series. Orthodox & Roman Catholic Christianity begins with the birth of Christ and ends with the Church as an active player in modern western society. There is a discussion of the differences between these two branches of Christianity. Protestant Christianity chronicles this 16th century religious reaction against Roman Catholic excesses and the various denominations that resulted. African & African-American Religions explores how African cultural diversity and customs created a unique religious spirituality that has survived slavery and been influenced by Christianity and traditional African spirituality. Native American Spirituality traces the history of Eskimo, Aztec, Mayan, Iroquois, and other indigenous spiritualities. Judaism outlines the theology, history, and way of life practiced by adherents of the world's first monotheistic religion. The persecutions Jews have faced are emphasized. Islam begins with its inception in the 7th century by Muhammad and shows daily life and rituals. Ancient Religions of the Mediterranean explores Greek, Roman, Mesopotamian and Egyptian mythologies, gods, and rituals. Confucianism & Taoism focus spirituality on human thought and behavior. Buddhism promotes pacifism, nonviolence, and its Four Noble Truths. Hinduism, with no identifiable founder and no specific formal doctrine, has countless sects and practices. Shinto is a Japanese tradition rooted in mythology, folk rituals, and ancestor worship. Religions of Small Societies looks at the rituals and beliefs of indigenous peoples around the globe. Skepticism & Religious Relativism looks at the ideas of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Copernicus, Kant, Freud, Nietzsche, Sartre and others. Each guide, also available online, includes a time line, vocabulary list, focus and discussion questions, and bibliography. While intended for high school and college students, teacher explication and classroom discussion before and after viewing will make these videos accessible to middle/junior high school students. They are best viewed in a group setting with parental permission due to the sensitivity of the topic.

Copyright 1999 School Library Journal. Used with permission.