Question 1

Which of the following terms best describes informal and transient groups, usually based on highly unorthodox religious beliefs and practices, often involving devotion to a charismatic leader?&#10;A) Cult&#10;B) Sect&#10;C) New Age&#10;D) Wicca

Accepted Answer

Cults are characterized by their informal, transient nature, unorthodox beliefs, and often a charismatic leader, fitting the description provided. Sects, New Age, and Wicca refer to different types of religious or spiritual groups with more specific beliefs and practices.

Question 2

What is the best measure of individual religiosity?&#10;A) Religious affiliation&#10;B) Religious practice and belief&#10;C) Religious commitment&#10;D) None of the above

Accepted Answer

Religious practice and belief are often considered the best measures of individual religiosity as they encompass both the actions and the personal convictions of an individual, providing a more comprehensive understanding of their religious life.

Question 3

According to the ABS 2016 Census, approximately what percentage of Australian adults declare they have no religion?&#10;A) 13%&#10;B) 22%&#10;C) 16%&#10;D) 30%

Accepted Answer

According to the ABS 2016 Census, approximately 22% of Australian adults declared they had no religion.

Question 4

Which individual church has the most congregants in Australia?&#10;A) Riverside in Perth&#10;B) Paradise Church in Adelaide&#10;C) St Patrick's in Melbourne&#10;D) Hillsong in Sydney

Accepted Answer

Hillsong Church in Sydney is known for having the largest congregation in Australia, attracting thousands of attendees across its services and locations. It has gained international recognition for its contemporary worship music and extensive global reach.

Question 5

What is the major doctrinal division in Islam?&#10;A) Beltane and Baha'i&#10;B) Jainism and Shi'ite&#10;C) Sunni and Shi'ite&#10;D) Coptic and Sunni

Accepted Answer

The major doctrinal division in Islam is between Sunni and Shi'ite Muslims. This division originated from a dispute over the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad.

Question 6

What do New Age activities include?&#10;A) Reiki channelling&#10;B) Eucharist&#10;C) Following the Sabbath&#10;D) Taking communion

Accepted Answer

Reiki channelling is a practice associated with New Age spirituality, focusing on the transfer of universal energy for healing and balance.

Question 7

What is meant by the idea of 'belief without belonging'?&#10;A) Religious practice is not declining as fast as religious belief&#10;B) People are becoming increasingly secular in their beliefs&#10;C) Rational choice theory underpins a general sense of spirituality rather than religiosity&#10;D) The perpetuation of a widespread belief in God despite a decline in church-going

Accepted Answer

The concept of 'belief without belonging' refers to the phenomenon where individuals continue to believe in religious principles or a higher power but do not participate in organized religious activities or institutions, such as attending church. This reflects a decline in formal religious affiliation and practice, but not necessarily in personal spirituality or belief in God.

Deck 15: Religion and Spirituality in Contemporary Australia