There are several notable New Religious Movements, namely The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), Christian Science, Adventism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, The Family (Children of God), The Unification Church, Rastafarianism, Scientology, The Findhorn Foundation, and the Raelian Movement (You can google them). Which of these new religions do you find interesting or intriguing? Which one of them do you find most “world accommodating”? What do you think are the advantages in belonging to such a community? Do you think the socio-political condition in the United States is conducive for the emergence of more New Religious Movements?
Watch this video:https://youtu.be/sZ3fc4lB__k
Objectives:The students are expected to: Articulate their understanding of the origins and development of NewReligious Movements NRMs) Compare and contrast the teachings of the NRMs with the “mainstreamChristianity. Demonstrate basic knowledge of some of the teachings of the NRMs.
Answer the following questions.
1. How sharply do Adventist churches differ in their outlook from “mainstream”Christianity?2. Who are the “Moonies,” and who does the founder of this religious communityclaim to be?3. Why are New Religious Movements viewed with suspicion?4. Discuss in your own words the characteristics of New Religious Movements.5. Why are New Religious Movements called “new”?6. How do you explain the emergence of New Religious Movements?
see attached readings