Creation: Catholic Perspectives and Influence
Creation: Catholic Perspectives and Influence
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Creation: Catholic Perspectives and Influence
What do you already know about creation in religious education?
Learning Objectives
At the end of the lesson you will be able to explain key beliefs about creation, understand Catholic teachings, interpret quotations, and discuss the influence of creation beliefs on Catholic life.
Key Beliefs about Creation
God as Creator
Creation is Good
Catholics believe God created everything from nothing (creatio ex nihilo).
All of creation is inherently good, as stated in Genesis: "God saw all that he had made, and it was very good."
Humans Made in God's Image
Catholic teaching holds that humans are created imago Dei (in the image of God), giving humanity dignity and responsibility.
Stewardship of Creation
Catholics believe humans are called to look after creation as stewards, caring for the world on God’s behalf.
Key Terms
Imago Dei: Being made in God's image. Stewardship: Duty to care for the world. Omnipotence: God's unlimited power.
Imago Dei, Stewardship, Omnipotence
Creation
The act of bringing the universe into existence.
Religious Teachings
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." (Genesis 1:1) shows God's power. "God saw all that he had made, and it was very good." (Genesis 1:31) emphasises creation's goodness.
Explanation of Quotations
"In the beginning..." shows God's role as the source of all things. "It was very good" underlines that creation is sacred and valuable.
Catholic Teaching Today
Catholics interpret Genesis alongside scientific understanding. The Church teaches that faith and reason can work together, and calls everyone to respect and care for creation.
Influence on Catholics
Belief in creation leads Catholics to protect the environment, support charities, and value human life. Many support groups like CAFOD to care for the earth.
Exam Practice: Questions
Give two Catholic beliefs about creation.
2 Mark Question
Explain two reasons why stewardship is important in Catholic teaching.
4 Mark Question
GCSE Evaluation Question
"‘The belief in creation is essential for Catholics today.’ Evaluate this statement. In your answer you should include arguments for and against." (12 marks)
Model Answer
For
Against
The belief in creation explains the value of the world and human life, teaches respect and stewardship, and underpins Catholic support for the environment.
Some Catholics may focus more on scientific explanations, and some argue moral responsibility can exist without creation beliefs. However, for most, creation remains central.
Revision Quiz
1. What does 'imago Dei' mean? 2. Name one creation quotation from Genesis. 3. Why is stewardship important for Catholics?
Discussion
Quick Questions
Share one way you can live out stewardship in daily life.
Revision Summary
Catholics believe God created the world, which shapes their values and actions. Key ideas: God as creator, creation is good, stewardship, imago Dei, and integration of science and faith. These beliefs influence Catholics to care for others and the environment.
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.
