AISNSW Studies of Religion Conference

Looking to the Future - Religious Expression in a Changing World

Religious Education has never been more relevant, engaging or challenging as religion and religious issues are in the news every day.

The most recent Bureau of Statistics Census data reveals the changing nature of the religious makeup of contemporary Australian society. The Census enables policymakers and educators to reflect on the continuing changes in our social attitudes and belief systems, and the implications for our understanding of who we are and what we believe in as a multicultural and multi-faith nation. We are also often made aware of the need for greater tolerance, understanding and reconciliation in the Australian community.

This year's Studies of Religion Conference will explore these important themes from multiple lenses including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories. The event will also highlight the critical role of the Stage 6 Studies of Religion course in developing the cultural and religious literacy of students by enabling them to deepen their appreciation for Australia's multi-layered spiritual and religious landscape.

This professional learning experience meets the criteria for NESA Accredited PD in the Priority Area of Delivery and Assessment of NSW Curriculum.

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Date: Friday, 20 October 2023

Location: AISNSW
Level 12, 99 York Street SYDNEY NSW 2000

Standard Descriptors: 2.1.2, 2.2.2, 3.3.2, 3.4.2

Keynote Presenter: Uncle Raymond Minniecon

Uncle Raymond Minniecon is an Aboriginal pastor with roots in the Kabikabi and Gurang-Gurang tribes of Queensland. Ray’s pastoral work focuses on Scarred Tree Indigenous Ministries in solidarity with St. John's Anglican Church, Glebe. Ray is a Board member with several Indigenous Ministries and organisations.

He is Founder of the Coloured Digger Project and Consultant to both the Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation and the Children of the Bomaderry Aboriginal Children's Home. Pastor Ray is a Vision Keepers for the World Christian Gathering of Indigenous Peoples.

Workshop Presenter: Professor Adam Possamai

Professor Adam Possamai is a Professor in Sociology at Western Sydney University. At Western Sydney University, he is the Deputy Dean of the School of Social Sciences and the Director of the Religion and Society Research Centre. He is renowned internationally for his work on popular religion, social theory, contemporary religion and Australian Aboriginal Peoples, and Muslim laws and society. He is a former President of the International Sociological Association’s Committee 22 on the Sociology of Religion, and of the Australian Association for the Study of Religions.

Professor Possamai’s presentation will explore the changing nature of Religious expression in contemporary Australian society through a sociological lens.

2023 Program

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