Download Religion and Belief Guide

Religion and Belief Guide
Spirituality and Multifaith Chaplaincy
www.aut.ac.nz/spirituality-and-chaplaincy
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Table of Contents
Forward by Vice-Chancellor................................................................................................................................................... 3
1 Faith and Belief on Campus............................................................................................................................................. 4
2 Religion and Belief Policy.................................................................................................................................................. 4
3 Calendar of cultural and religious days or festivals�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������6
4 Religion in New Zealand....................................................................................................................................................6
5 Spirituality and Multifaith Chaplaincy........................................................................................................................7
5.1 Spirituality and Chaplaincy team.......................................................................................................................... 8
6 Facilities for prayer and reflection...............................................................................................................................9
6.1 Multifaith rooms............................................................................................................................................................9
6.2 Muslim prayer rooms..................................................................................................................................................9
6.3 Auckland Catholic Tertiary Chaplaincy........................................................................................................... 9
7 Churches and Spiritual Groups near AUT Campuses�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������10
7.1 City Campus....................................................................................................................................................................10
7.2 North Campus.................................................................................................................................................................11
7.3 South Campus................................................................................................................................................................ 12
Appendix A: Religious Observance Guidelines......................................................................................................... 14
Appendix B: Religion and Beliefs.......................................................................................................................................16
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Foreword by Vice-Chancellor
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a pluralistic community of people, who hold
various religious, spiritual, faith based and non-faith based beliefs.
AUT is the first university in Aotearoa New Zealand to pioneer a multifaith chaplaincy and
spirituality model to serve its tertiary institution. AUT’s multifaith chaplaincy and spirituality
model demonstrates its commitment to championing its respect for religious diversity,
including non-faith and spiritually related beliefs.
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1. Faith and Belief on Campus
Introduction
AUT students and staff are spread out over three campuses and represent a diverse population who hold a diverse range of values
and beliefs relating to spirituality, religion and non-faith.
Religious diversity was acknowledged in the first Aotearoa New Zealand Statement (2007) and endorsed by a broad range of faith
based communities because of its significance to this nation as a whole. This statement emphasises a framework of eight key
principles on: religion, safety, freedom of expression and differences, understanding through educational training, the joint
governmental/community responsibility and partnership, and the value of recognition and accommodation of religious beliefs
within educational and work environments.
In developing this ‘Religion and Belief Guide’, AUT believes that this resource will make a positive contribution to
overcoming any belief-based challenge, by supporting and empowering relationships, which contribute to a more respectful,
tolerant, peaceful and harmonious AUT learning and teaching environment.
2. Religion and Belief Policy
1. Purpose
To protect and uphold freedom of religion and belief in order to create an environment of respect, tolerance, peace and harmony.
2. Definitions
Freedom of religion and belief includes the rights to hold a religious or ethical belief, change one’s religion or belief, express one’s
religion or belief, and not to hold a belief. The right to believe is not limited to religion. It also includes atheistic beliefs, as well as
matters of conscience such as pacifism and conscientious objection to military service. (Jayawaickram, 2002, p653) [sourced from
Human Rights in NZ 2010 p141]
Religion and belief includes minority and non-mainstream religions and theistic, non-theistic and atheistic beliefs.
[Sourced from The United Nations Human Rights Committee general comment no 22, 1993]
3. Policy
AUT is committed to upholding and protecting all students’ and employees’ freedom of religion and beliefs in accordance and
consistent with New Zealand legislation, AUT policies and ethical guidelines, including the AUT Religion and Belief Guide.
This Policy is supported by the Guidelines for Religious Observance (Appendix A).
4. Scope
This policy applies to all students, staff and visitors to AUT campuses.
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5. Relevant legislation
• Employment Relations Amendment Act 2004
www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2004/0086/latest/DLM315909.html
• Health and Safety at Work Act 2016
www.mbie.govt.nz/info-services/employment-skills/workplace-health-and-safety-reform
• Human Rights Act 1993
www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1993/0082/latest/DLM304212.html
6. Related procedures/documents
This policy must be read in conjunction with the following:
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Council Policy No: 03 Good Employer
Council Policy No: 05 Equal Opportunities
Council Statute No: 3 Discipline Statute
Early Resolution Policy and Procedures
Ethical Guidelines for AUT staff
Preventing Harassment Policy
Staff Code of Conduct The Disciplinary Policy and Procedures
Work-Life Balance Policy
AUT Religion and Belief Guide
Handbook of Practices for AUT Spirituality and Chaplaincy Services
The Statement on Religious Diversity (2007)
7. Responsibility
AUT students and staff are expected to behave consistently with AUT’s values of integrity, compassion and respect, to uphold the
right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion for AUT individuals, groups and community.
8. Legal compliance
The university will comply with the above legislation, policies and procedures and the terms of any relevant
employment agreements.
9. Document management and control
Date of Issue:
APRIL 2016
Date for Review: ONGOING
This Policy is the property of AUT.
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3. Calendar of cultural and religious days or festivals
AUT is a pluralistic community of students and staff who observe and celebrate a diverse and varied cultural and religious days or
festivals. The AUT diversity calendar and spirituality and chaplaincy events calendar (click on the links below) lists key events and
celebrations throughout the year, showcasing the many traditions and communities at AUT.
• Diversity events calendar
www.aut.ac.nz/community/aut-diverse-communities/diversity-calendar
• Regular weekly spiritual activities
www.aut.ac.nz/spirituality-and-chaplaincy-events & activities
• Annual spiritual activities - 2016
www.aut.ac.nz/spirituality-and-chaplaincy-events-multifaith-calendar
• Month by month multifaith calendar
www.aut.ac.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/627585/March-2016-Calendar.pdf
4. Religion in New Zealand
New Zealand is a country of diverse culture, spiritual and religious beliefs and identifications, as the following faith-based list
(Based on the NZ Census 2013 and sourced from Wikipedia) demonstrates.
Source: [https://en.wikipedia.org/?title=Religion_in_New_Zealand]
Appendix B Religion and Beliefs and the links below provide more information under each religion.
Roman Catholic [Christian]
Anglican
[Christian]
Presbyterian [Christian]
Other [Christianity]
Hinduism Buddhism Islam Other Religions Undeclared No religion (11.07%) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church
(10.33%) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anglicanism
(7.44%) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presbyterianism
(14.63%)
(2.02%) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_New_Zealand
(1.31%) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism#
(1.04%) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam
(1.34%)
(12.27%)
(38.55%)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion
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5. Spirituality and multifaith chaplaincy
Spirituality is defined by the Ministry of Education (1999) as ‘The values and beliefs that determine the way people live and relate
to each other and the universe, the search for meaning and the purpose in life, and the personal growth including development in
personal identity and self-awareness. The realisation of these values through practice and action’.
[Sourced from Ministry of Education (1999), Health Promoting Schools in Action in Aotearoa/New Zealand]
Spirituality has tended to be linked with organised religions or faith based communities or individuals, like a chaplain. The term
chaplain, although a Christian term, usually refers to someone from a faith based community who provides spiritual support, care
and servant leadership within a particular organisation like AUT. Chaplains at AUT are from many faiths and make up the uniquely
multifaith chaplaincy service whose primary responsibility is facilitating the spiritual dimension for students, staff and the
university.
Time at university provides opportunities to learn, experience life, and explore ideas and values. Specifically, AUT’s spirituality and
multifaith chaplaincy services offers the chance to:
• Explore spirituality and spiritual growth
• Embrace multifaith experiences
• Enhance one’s own faith traditions and experiences
To achieve these objectives AUT’s spirituality and multifaith chaplaincy services provide ‘spiritual’ activities that are
non-threatening, accessible, and pragmatic. The service also provides educationally informative, interfaith and values-based
activities. The emphasis of these activities is not on conversion, but upon exploration and support within a safe environment.
AUT’s Spirituality and Multifaith Chaplaincy team is made up of: a Spirituality Co-ordinator, Chaplaincy Co-ordinator and Voluntary
Chaplains. This team is part of Student Wellbeing and Engagement, a unit within Student Services Administration. These services
cater in a holistic way for individuals and the community of AUT.
Chaplains or faith based servant-leaders can assist on the following:
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Spiritual matters and spiritual development
The meaning and purpose of life
Issues related to life passages, e.g. birth, marriage, relationships and death
Ceremonies and worship
Practical or welfare issues
If there are family accidents, crises, bereavements or hospitalisation, chaplains may be contacted by students or staff. Chaplains can
visit those affected if required. At AUT, chaplains are available (mainly by appointment) to meet with students and staff.
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5.1 Spirituality and Chaplaincy team
Chaplaincy Co-ordinator
Christian Chaplain - Reverend Linda T Hope
Phone: (09) 921 9999 ext 8899 or (09) 921 9992
Email:[email protected]
Available by appointment during semester on Wednesday and Thursday.
Buddhist Chaplain - Sensei Amala Wrightson
Phone: (09) 550 4383
Email:[email protected]
Website:www.aucklandzen.org.nz
Sensei Amala is overseeing the work by Priest Hanya Gallagher who is available
by appointment during the semester, mainly Wednesday.
Meditation practice in room WB112 on:
Tuesday12pm–1pm, and drop-in class, Wednesday 12pm–1pm during semester.
Christian (Catholic) – Father Bernie Thomas
Phone: (09) 303 3852
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Website: www.actc.net.nz
Address:Newman Hall Chaplaincy Office, 16 Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland Central
Available by appointment on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
Contact office phone about daily mass and prayer times.
Christian Chaplain – Reverend Cate Thorn
Phone: 021 0227 1048
Email:[email protected]
Available by appointment at the North Campus, mainly on Wednesdays.
Christian (Lay) Chaplain – Dr Graeme Sterne
Phone: 021 0242 3909
Email:[email protected]
Available by appointment during semester
Bible Study and Prayer Groups
Mondays 12pm-1pm in City Campus WB112 and
North Campus on Thursday 2pm-4pm
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Christian Chaplain – Reverend Danny Kyu Deug Kim
BEd (Korea), MDiv (Korea), PGDip (Waikato), PGDipEd (Waikato), MSW (Massey)
Phone: 021 0815 8687
Email: [email protected].
Available by appointment at City Campus on Wednesdays between 12pm and 3pm
Six weeks free Korean language classes during Semester: Wednesday 3pm-4pm
Interfaith/Interspiritual Chaplain – Reverend Jean McElhaney
Mobile: 022 192 3202
Email:[email protected]
Available by appointment during semester at North Campus mainly Thursday.
Meditation (Practices to support wellbeing)
Thursdays 3.45pm-5pm Room AP102
Islamic/Muslim Chaplain - Sheikh Rafat Najm
Phone: 021 134 0501 (no answers for text messages)
Email:[email protected]
Available by appointment on Mondays
Room WT012: Access Code available at WG Reception desk or 09 921 9999
Jummah (Friday Prayers)
Summer: Session One at 1.30pm, Session Two at 2pm, Session Three at 2.30pm
Winter: Session One at 12.30pm, Session Two at 1.30pm
Spirituality Co-ordinator - Amanda Lees
Phone: (09) 921 9992
Email:[email protected]
The Spirituality Co-ordinator’s role is mainly administrative and provides valuable
practical support to the work of chaplain engagement with students, staff and community.
Amanda returns from Sabbatical on 1 August 2016.
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6. Facilities for prayer and reflection
Spiritual rituals like prayer, meditation, quiet reflection and worship are encouraged by sacred spaces (or facilities) like the
multifaith and Muslim prayer rooms. These sacred spaces are open to people of all religions and belief and non-belief for students
and staff to use as places of worship, meditation or for quiet reflection. In addition there are specific guidelines for each of the
sacred spaces at AUT.
AUT will take every reasonable effort to accommodate requests for facilities, such as quiet rooms, subject to space and other
constraints. Where it is not possible to accommodate requests, reasons will be given and assistance will be provided to seek
alternatives, which may include access to local community facilities.
6.1 Multifaith rooms
The multifaith rooms are for people of all faiths to use and are located at:
City Campus, Room: WB112, Open: 7am–4pm (After hours access contact Security)
North Campus, Room: AP102, Open: 8am–5pm
South Campus, Room: MC202c, Open: 8am–6pm
The multifaith room at the City Campus can be booked by AUT community members for regular use; otherwise all the multifaith
rooms can be accessed on a drop-in basis when not booked. A timetable of activities is posted outside the City Campus and North
Campus multifaith rooms, as these have various standing bookings throughout the semester.
To book a multifaith room for an AUT faith group please email the Chaplaincy Co-ordinator, [email protected]
The responsible use of multifaith rooms is detailed by the values and guidelines (click on the link) below:
http://www.aut.ac.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/123168/multifaith-room-guidelines-2014.pdf
6.2 Muslim prayer rooms
A Muslim prayer room is available for AUT Muslim students and staff at the following locations:
City Campus, Room: WT012. Access code available at WG reception desk or 09 921 9999
Open weekdays 5am-11pm. Weekends: 11am-5pm
North Campus, Room: AP112A
Open daily: 8am-5pm
The rooms have separate spaces for men and women, and washroom facilities. To view the guidelines for use of the Muslim prayer
rooms click on the link below for more information.
http://www.aut.ac.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/189553/muslim-prayer-room-guidelines-2014-student-brand.pdf
6.3 Auckland Catholic Tertiary Chaplaincy
Newman Hall Chaplaincy Office
16 Waterloo Quadrant, Auckland Central
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7. Churches and spiritual groups near AUT campuses
7.1 City Campus
Auckland Baptist Tabernacle Church
441 Queen Street, Auckland 1010
Phone: (09) 377 4063
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.tabernacle.org.nz
Auckland Buddhist Centre
381 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn
Phone: (09) 378 1120
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.aucklandbuddhistcentre.org
Auckland Chinese Presbyterian Church
105 Vincent Street, Auckland 1010
Phone: (09) 358 0661
Website: www.acpc.org.nz
Auckland Christian Evangelical Church (Chinese speaking)
4 Wiremu Street, Balmoral
Phone: (09) 623 6685/027 271 8546
Email: [email protected]
Catholic - St Benedict’s Church
1 St Benedicts Street, Newton (or corner of St Benedicts Street
and Alex Evans Street)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.newtoncatholic.org.nz or
www.citycatholic.org.nz (St Patricks Cathedral)
Hindu - Radha Krishna Temple
145 New North Road, Eden Terrace
Phone: (09) 379 4463
Website: www.aiai.org.nz (Auckland Indian Assn website and
Mahatma Gandhi Centre)
Islamic - Al-Masjid Al Jamie Ponsonby
17 Vermont Street, Ponsonby
Phone: (09) 378 8200
Website: www.fianz.co.nz/ponsonby-masjid
Jewish - Auckland Hebrew Congregation
108 Greys Avenue, Auckland 1010
Phone: (09) 373 2908
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ahc.org.nz
Pitt St Methodist - Auckland Central Parish
78 Pitt Street, Auckland 1010
Phone: (09) 378 8200 or (09) 373 2869
Website: www.methodistcentral.org.nz
Quakers Aotearoa Friends Centre
113 Mt Eden Road, Auckland 1024
Phone: (09) 630 6834
Email: [email protected]
Sikh - Gurudwara Sri Guru Harkrishan Sahib
4/3034 Great North Road, New Lynn
Phone: (09) 826 1300
Email: [email protected]
St Andrews First Presbyterian Church
2A Symonds Street, Auckland 1010
Phone: (09) 373 5956
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.standrewschurch.org.nz
St Paul’s Anglican Church
28 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010
Phone: (09) 373 3268 or 0800 78 78 70
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.stpauls.org.nz
Salvation Army
369 Queen Street, Auckland 1010
Phone: (09) 379 7615
Website:
www.salvationarmy.org.nz/centres/nz/auckland/auckland
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7.2 North Campus
Anglican - St John the Baptist Anglican Church
47 Church Street, Northcote
Phone: (09) 480 7568
Website: www.stjohnsanglican.org.nz
Catholic - St Mary’s Parish
117 Onewa Road, Northcote
Phone: (09) 480 7357
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.northcoteanglican.org.nz
Hindu - Shri Radha Giridhari Mandir (ISKCON)
1229 Coatesville-Riverhead Highway 28
Phone: (09) 412 8075
Methodist - St Lukes Methodist Church
22 Greenslade Crescent, Northcote
Phone: (09) 442 1945
Website: www.aucklandmethodist.org.nz/parish-13
Northcote Baptist Church
67 Eban Avenue, Hillcrest
Phone/Fax (09) 480 7064
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.nbc.org.nz
Presbyterian - St Aidan’s Presbyterian Church
97 Onewa Road, Northcote
Phone: (09) 480 2193
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.staidansnorthcote.org.nz
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7.2 South Campus
Selwyn Anglican Church
330 Massey Road, Mangere East 2024
Phone: (09) 270 0314
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.selwynanglicanchurch.com
www.st-james-nz.org
Manukau City Baptist Church
9 Lambie Drive, Papatoetoe
Phone: (09) 278 8998
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.citybaptist.org.nz
Buddhist - Fo Guang Shan Temple
16 Stancombe Road, East Tamaki
Phone: (09) 274 4880
Website: www.fgs.org.nz
Catholic - St Anne’s Catholic Parish
126 Russell Road, Manurewa
Phone: (09) 266 5826
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.manurewacatholic.org.nz
Hindu - Subramaniyam Temple
41 Stanhope Rd, Ellersie
Phone: (09) 263 8854
Islamic - Masjid At-Taqwa
58 Grayson Avenue, Manukau
Phone: (09) 277 7175
Wesley Methodist Church
37 Kolmar Road, Papatoetoe
Phone: (09) 278 6442
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.methodist.org.nz/find_us/manukau/
parish_information/papatoetoe_otara
Onehunga Co-operating Parish
Corner Grey Street and Onehunga Mall
Phone: (09) 636 4587
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.onehungaparish.org
St Johns Presbyterian Church
120 Great South Road, Papatoetoe
Phone: (09) 278 2746
Website: www.stjp.org.nz
Salvation Army - Auckland City Corps and Korean Corps
18 Allright Place, Mt Wellington
Phone: (09) 379 7615
Email: [email protected]
Sikh - Sri Guru Singh Sabha
127 Shirley Road, Papatoetoe
Phone: (09) 277 0110
Zen Buddhist Centre
52 Princes Street, Onehunga
Phone: (09) 550 4383
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.aucklandzen.org.nz
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Appendix A: Religious Observance Guidelines
The following are AUT Religious Observance Guidelines and should be read in conjunction with the AUT Religion and Belief Guide.
The intent is to support the diverse religious and spiritual practices of students and staff, wherever possible.
These guidelines are informed by the Humans Rights Commission’s Religious Diversity in the New Zealand Workplace.
https://www.hrc.co.nz/files/6014/2388/1002/HRC_Religious-DiversityV6.pdf
1. Absence from lectures and tutorials
Students who are wishing to participate in a religious or cultural activity/festival or event that is directly related to their faith or
beliefs, which means being absent from a lecture or tutorial, will need to seek prior approval of this from the relevant lecturer or
tutor concerned.
Lecturers and tutors can also support a student by ensuring that lecture notes are available online and where extensions to
assignment deadlines are sought, they are considered in light of the prior approved reason for absence.
2. Dress
The university does not operate a formal dress code, however we welcome the expression of cultural diversity on campus through
the wearing of religious dress (including, for example, sari, turbans, skullcaps, hijab (Islamic head scarf), kippah (Jewish skull cap),
mangal sutra (Hindu wedding neck chain) and clerical collars).
Health and safety of members of the university community is a priority consideration, particularly where the health and safety of
the person wearing the cultural or religious dress, is compromised (or that of others). It may be necessary to request that the person
does not wear the cultural or religious dress or a particular aspect thereof. This will be handled with sensitivity and reasons given.
Where a person is required to wear overalls, protective clothing or uniforms these will be adapted wherever possible to enable the
person to wear their cultural or religious dress without endangering their health and safety or that of others. In some laboratory
spaces or work areas, rules or dress codes may apply and these must be complied with.
If there is any dispute or there is some concern about health and safety implications about a particular form of cultural or religious
dress, AUT’s Health and Safety Office will advise.
There needs to be respect for and recognition of the accepted symbols of religious groups. The wearing of slogans and symbols
on clothes, which may be considered offensive, for example related to racism or sexism, may be a breach of the AUT Religion and
Belief Policy and as such may result in disciplinary action.
3. Drink
There should always be water and non-alcoholic drinks available for all catered events. Alcohol can be provided, but should be
served separately.
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4. Duties
The university engages in many activities and research projects, which in some circumstances an individual may morally object to
on the grounds of their religious or other belief. The university accepts that these situations may arise in such a diverse and
international community.
Where a situation arises and an individual is required as part of their duties as a staff member or a student, to undertake
activities that they object to on the grounds of religious or other belief, they should inform their line manager, programme leader
or supervisor of this. This should include the reasons why the activities they are being required to undertake are morally or on
religious grounds objectionable subject to operational requirements, every effort will be made to reorganise the duties or studies,
where at all possible, to accommodate such objections. The Diversity Manager can be consulted to provide advice in these
situations.
5. Examinations
The timing of examinations could take into consideration, wherever possible, recognised religious celebrations, festivals or
ceremonies and key prayer times.
6. Food
In providing food for events and working lunches, vegetarian and other options could be made available. These should be clearly
labelled as such and be separate from other food items that contain meat and/or fish. Dependent on the type of event and where
catered food is provided, it may also be appropriate to provide halal or kosher options and to give due respect to those present who
may be fasting. In the overall catering provision, where there is sufficient demand, and it is practical to do so, food to meet religious
dietary requirements can be provided.
7. Lectures and staff development opportunities
It is important in all training opportunities that the language used by facilitators is culturally inclusive, as are the types of case
studies and examples relied upon. The scheduling of internal staff development opportunities or conferences should, wherever
possible, consider the dates of religious celebrations, festivals or ceremonies that staff may wish to attend.
8. Open Days
The scheduling of AUT Open Days could, wherever possible, consider the dates of religious festivals and other cultural festivals.
9. Prayer
Organisers of events, including conferences, should consider the provision of prayer facilities and the timing of breaks to enable
people to pray should they wish.
10. Recruitment and selection
Advertising of staff positions should be accessible to a diverse audience. Position requirements should be clearly outlined to
include where it may impact on an applicant’s faith or belief e.g. if there is a requirement to handle meat or to serve alcohol etc.
Requests to have the interview dates changed on the grounds of a clash with religious or cultural activity or observance should,
wherever possible, be treated sympathetically and rescheduled.
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11. Spaces for religious observance and facilities
Members of the AUT community may also observe the traditions of their religion and prayer at certain times of a day. They will be
able to do this provided they have made arrangements in advance with their manager, programme leader or supervisor as
appropriate. Arrangements that are made to facilitate such prayer will also consider the affect that it might have on others and be
considerate of them. For details of spaces see Section 4 of the Religion and Belief Guide.
12. Time off
Students seeking time off from their studies to participate in their respective religious festivals will need to seek permission from
the relevant faculty.
All staff, regardless of their religious belief or non-belief, are required to work in accordance with their respective collective or
individual employment agreements.
AUT staff may request to take leave (in accord with their respective collective or individual employment agreement) to participate in
their religious celebrations, festivals or ceremonies. It is their responsibility to inform their line manager or supervisor in advance to
ensure staff coverage for their work responsibilities can be arranged.
13. Titles
Recognised ordained ministers or leaders of religious or faith based communities may have particular titles or designations e.g.
Imam, Reverend and Chaplain etc. These titles may be used within the university’s marketing and communication mechanisms e.g.
internal directories, calendars and letterheads etc.
Appendix B: Religion and Beliefs
AUT’s multifaith chaplaincy model brings together spiritual members from different faith communities with a common purpose
to serve AUT students and staff. The following descriptions outlines useful information regarding the five major world religions
(represented by some of the chaplains) and relevant beliefs for a bi-cultural journey. The intent is to provide a starting point for
meaningful conversations both within and across a variety of religious and non-religious belief systems, thereby supporting and
empowering relationships, which contribute to a more respectful, tolerant, peaceful and harmonious AUT learning and teaching
environment.
Much of the following material was sourced from two documents: the Glasgow University Interfaith Chaplaincy Religion and Belief
Guide 2013-2014 and A Practical Reference to Religious and Spiritual Diversity for Operational Police 3rd Edition Australia
New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency 2010.
Further general information can be found from www.teara.govt.nz/en/diverse-religions
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Buddhism
Origins:
Buddhism is based on the teachings of the Buddha Shakyamuni who lived and taught in northern India about 2500 years ago.
A Buddha is to be revered, not as a god, but as an example of a life of great virtue, compassion and wisdom. Followers of the
Buddha aspire to realise his teaching in their own lives, which they believe came from his spiritual awakening, or enlightenment.
Beliefs:
Buddhists view unenlightened existence as impermanent, uncertain, and full of suffering. The Buddha offered a practical
programme to alleviate suffering, known as the eight-fold path, which consists of eight different but interconnected kinds of
cultivation that lead to enlightenment or liberation from the causes of suffering (craving, aversion and delusion).
The eight strands of the path are Right View, Right Aspiration, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right
Mindfulness and Right Concentration. These are grouped into three categories, with virtue as the foundation or root (speech,
actions and livelihood that do no harm to others or oneself), mental discipline/balance as the supporting structure or trunk
(skillful effort, trained attention and one-pointed concentration), and wisdom as the outcome or fruit (unbiased views and
wholesome aspirations).
Karma (the law of cause and effect on the moral plane) and pratityasamutpada (the interdependence of all phenomena) are also
important concepts for all Buddhists.
Customs and practices:
Buddhism has developed many customs and practices in different parts of the world and some of the major ones are:
Dana (Generosity)
For many Buddhist laypeople, their primary mode of religious devotion is practicing generosity by supporting monks (and in some places nuns) with food and other requisites. In return the monks offer teachings.
Venerating the Three Treasures (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha)
The Three Treasures (or Refuges) are Buddha (both the person and his awakening), Dharma (the teaching that
awakens) and Sangha (the community of people engaged in practicing awakening). Veneration takes many forms, such as meditating on the qualities of Buddha, bowing before a Buddha figure or monument containing relics, chanting the sutras (scriptures), or making offerings.
Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage may be undertaken as a spiritual discipline or to fulfil a vow. It is understood as a way to forge karmic
connections with the historical figures associated with the pilgrimage sites, and as a way to purify the mind and
generate merit.
Meditation
Many meditation methods are taught, but the ultimate aim of all is the realisation of enlightenment or Nirvana.
A very common method taught be many traditions is mindfulness of breathing.
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Places of worship:
The term “worship” is not really appropriate to Buddhism, which has no God-concept.
Buddhists gather regularly to receive teachings, meditate, study, chant or pray together. Small groups may make use of hired
premises or meet together in private homes, larger groups build temples, centres and monasteries.
There are over 40 different Buddhist organisations in Auckland.
Main festivals:
Buddhists have many celebrations throughout the year. These generally commemorate particular events of the Buddha’s life and
include: his birth, his enlightenment, and his Parinirvana (final release).
The dates of these events are mostly expressed through the lunar calendar and there is much variation between the different
traditions.
Some Buddhists also gather on new moon and full moon days to meditate, make vows, and chant.
Great masters within individual lineages are also often remembered with ceremonial events.
Food and diet:
Although their high valuation of life and their rejection of violence means that some Buddhists are vegetarian, this is not always
the case.
Concerns of the community:
Because of the enormous diversity to be found within Buddhism, it is hard to generalise about this. In migrant communities
preserving the culture and religious practices of the home country may be a major concern. Dying well is important to Buddhists,
so hospice and hospital chaplaincy work is undertaken by some. Other groups focus outreach efforts on teaching communication
skills and non-violence.
Most traditions emphasise mental cultivation (meditation) and the practice of loving-kindness, which can be expressed in many
different ways, from serving vegetarian food to the needy to social and environmental justice initiatives.
Christianity
Origins:
Christianity is one of the monotheistic (one god) religions (or faiths) in the Abrahamic tradition, which includes Islam and Judaism.
The word ‘Christianity’ takes its name from its ‘founder’ Jesus of Nazareth, known as the Christ (the ‘Anointed One’). There is
historical evidence to suggest he lived approximately 2000 years ago in what is today modern day Palestine. Jesus was a Jewish
man whom Christians believe was born to fulfil the prophecies in the Old Testament of the Bible (Christian Sacred Book).
These prophecies tell of the birth of a Saviour for the people of Israel and for every nation on earth.
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Beliefs:
Christians believe that the world and every living creature including plant life was created by God and will be brought to its
fulfilment at the end of time. God gives life and all life will eventually return back to the source of all life, God.
The Christian Bible is in two parts. The first equates roughly to what the Jewish Bible has called the Old Testament (or First
Testament). The second part is the New Testament which contains the Gospels (records of Jesus’ life and his teachings), the Acts of
the Apostles, the writings of a missionary called Paul and other writings from early Christians.
At the centre of Christian belief is Jesus who is regarded as the revelation of God - for many understood to be the very incarnation
of God. He is regarded as the one who has transformed human nature so that it need no longer follow its sinful inclinations but
rather lead a life of love and service.
The experience of God in Jesus has led Christians to see God as a community of three persons in one (Father, Son and Holy Spirit)
called the Trinity.
Customs and practice:
Individuals are admitted into the Christian church through baptism (a response of faith) which can take place in childhood
or adulthood.
The central ritual of much Christian worship is Holy Communion or Eucharist which is a sharing of bread and wine in memory of
Jesus’ last supper with his disciples. In the sharing of bread Jesus equates this with his body which will be broken and cruelly
mistreated for the sake of others. And in the sharing of the wine Jesus relates this to his blood being innocently shed – again for
the sake of others.
In the Catholic tradition this takes place weekly and even daily while in some Protestant churches it takes place on a monthly basis
or even annually.
This ritual connects the Christian with a god who through Jesus, shares human suffering and provides a pathway that is
transformative for the soul. It can also act as a challenge or re-commitment to follow in the path set out by Jesus’ life and example.
Private prayer and meditation are part of a range of spiritual tools which help Christians in their daily life as a means of enjoying a
loving relationship with God.
Places of worship:
Broadly speaking, Christianity is divided into two major groupings:
Eastern Christianity:
There are many churches within Eastern Christianity, such as the Orthodox churches. These churches
share a common faith and worship, and originate mainly from Africa, Eastern and Southern Europe and
the Middle East. These branches of Eastern Christianity are closely aligned with cultural or ethnic groups
(e.g. Greek, Macedonian).
Western Christianity:
There are many churches within Western Christianity, such as the Roman Catholic church (under the
authority of the Pope), the Anglican church, the Baptist church, Presbyterian church and
Pentecostal churches.
In general (although there are exceptions) the Christian holy day takes place on a Sunday when congregations gather in churches,
community centres or a home to worship and pray together.
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Culture/festivals:
Important dates in the Christian calendar include:
Christmas: The celebration of Jesus’ birth (25 December).
Easter: Commemorating the death (on Good Friday) and resurrection (on Easter Sunday) of Jesus (usually around the end of March or beginning of April).
Lent: A period of forty days before Easter. Some Christians may choose to fast or give up some type of food which gives them pleasure as a form of self-sacrifice like chocolate.
Pentecost: Celebrating the coming of God’s spirit (thought of as the birth of the Church) is also an important festival.
Food and diet:
In Christianity, all food is seen as a gift of God to be enjoyed in moderation and with gratitude.
Some Christians will follow different dietary procedures during the six week period prior to Easter (season of Lent). This may
include fasting, avoiding meat, or avoiding other foods.
Orthodox Christians may also fast before other events and celebrations.
Some Christians do not eat meat on Fridays.
Seventh Day Adventists follow a diet similar to the Jewish kosher diet.
Concerns of the community:
A major focus for Christians is to promote the values of God’s kingdom on Earth, to bring about justice, peace and reconciliation
usually through the process of forgiveness and love. The greatest commandment taught and modelled by Jesus Christ is to ‘love
God….love others and love oneself’. Concern for God should translate itself into a concern for others including the earth and all its
inhabitants as well as a balanced concern for oneself.
Hinduism
Origins:
The Hindu tradition has no founder, central creed and no central administration. However, it is best understood as a group of
closely connected religious traditions rather than a single religion with many schools of thought Hinduism is sometimes referred to
as Sanatana Dharma, the eternal religion, a religion without beginning or end.
Hindus believe in one god (monotheism) as well as many gods (polytheism). Therefore it is possible to worship the one supreme
God and ultimate reality (Brahman) who can exist simultaneously in the deities of the Creator (Brahma), the Sustainer (Vishnu) and
the Destroyer (Shiva).
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Beliefs:
Hindus consider religion to be a sanctified and disciplined path one should follow to reach a higher level of consciousness or goal,
i.e. to become a better person.
This can only be done by following the path of Dharma (often called the Sanatana Dharma):
• Dharma means the ancient law which underlies the order of the universe and is reflected in a moral and ethical life.
• Hindus believe in the law of karma - a simple law of cause and effect: “As you sow, so shall you reap”.
It is also believed that the divine nature of the soul is indestructible and immortal, transmigrating from body to body depending on
the merits and sins of one’s actions (karma) accumulated in a lifetime.
Hindus further believe in the descent (avatar) of divinity to protect the righteous and destroy the unrighteous.
In one sense Hindus accept the prophets of all religions as manifestations or avatars of God and recognise the presence of God in
all living beings.
Customs and practices:
Prayer and the reading of the Holy Scriptures, are important practices which give Hindus an example of how to live. Worship or
veneration of the divine image takes place around a shrine morning or evening in devout Hindu homes.
The sacred writings, the Four Vedas, are considered to be divine in origin. They are believed to be the direct transmission of God’s
word, and not delivered through a prophet.
A Hindu is enjoined to seek personal purification on the path to self-realisation through one or more of four paths:
•
•
•
•
Ritualistic worship, chanting of prayers, devotional surrender to a higher ideal
Service
Yoga and meditation and
Inquiry (know thyself)
Hindus follow the lunar calendar and particular days are set aside during the week and month to honour particular manifestations
of God.
Places of worship:
Worship and general religious activity are commonly centred around the home.
Hindu temples or Mandirs, which have a priest educated in the scriptures, have public worship twice daily and Sunday has become
a day for communal worship and activity. Only trained priests are able to perform religious ceremonies on special occasions though
anyone may perform puja (act of worship).
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Culture/festivals:
There are Hindu festivals almost every month, although the names and dates of the festivals vary between communities. The main
festivals are:
February/March:
Sivarathiri, a whole night vigil.
March/April: Holi (celebration of fertility and harvest), Hindu New Year and Ram Naumi/Ram Navami (celebration of the birth of Lord Rama, the incarnation of the god Vishnu).
August: Krishna Janmashtami/Krishna Jayanti, marking the birth of the god Krishna.
August/September: Ganesha Chathurthi/Ganesh Chaturthi/Vinayaka Chaturthi, celebrating the birthday of the
elephant-headed deity Ganesha/Ganesh.
September/October: Navarathiri/Navrati, a 10 day festival celebrating the Goddess Durga.
October/November: Deepavali/Diwali (Festival of Lights), celebrating the victory of good over evil.
There are a number of other festivals that are specific to particular regions and cultures.
Hindu festivals are based on the lunar calendar, and therefore the dates vary from year to year.
Food and diet:
Hindus believe in the reverence and interdependence of life through the concept of ahimsa (non-injury). This is one of the highest
principles which encourages many Hindus to choose a diet without meat, or meat related products such as vegetarianism.
Many Hindus may choose to be vegetarians only on Hindu festivals, eating fish and meat (not beef) on other days of the year.
Observant Hindus and most vegetarians are unlikely to consume alcoholic drinks.
The influence of charity is apparent in the importance attached to hospitality: every pious Hindu is expected to keep some food
aside for an unexpected guest and no-one should ever be turned away hungry.
Concerns of the community:
Hindus should show love and respect for all beings as a way of recognising the divinity within all creatures. Charity is extremely
important. It is generally practiced in a discreet, individual manner, and is seen as a means of extending the natural love for the
family into the wider community.
Hindus also have a concern for the future of their young people and offer support to all members of their community, particularly
vulnerable groups such as the elderly.
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Islam
Origins:
The Muslims’ religion and way of life, spiritually and materially, is Islam.
Islam is an Arabic word which means submission to God.
The root of the word Islam comes from a word meaning peace and it is the way of peace as laid down in the Qur’an. The word can
also mean submission and it is through submission to God’s will that a Muslim finds peace.
Islam is a world religion that originated in the Middle East in the seventh century Common Era (CE) and is associated with the
Prophet Muhammed. He was born in Makkah in 570 CE and received God’s revelation through an Angel named Gabriel over a
period of 23 years. Reverence for the name of Muhammed is so revered that when using his name even in writing – it may be
common to see the initials ‘pbuh’ or ‘peace be upon him’.
Beliefs:
The Arabic word ALLAH means ‘the One God’.
At the heart of Muslim belief is the unity and universality of God. A god who in creating the first human father, Adam, links him to
the human race (in general) and the Muslim community (Ummah) specifically who are aware of their solidarity with all Muslims
worldwide.
Muslims recognise the prophets such as Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Moses and Jesus, and see Mohammed (peace be upon him) as the
last and final prophet.
This revelation was recorded in Islam’s Holy Book known as the Qur’an, which is regarded as the literal word of God. Muslims are
taught to recite the Qur’an in Arabic.
Customs and practices:
Islam has two principal bases of faith:
• There is no god worthy of worship but the one universal God (Allah), creator and sustainer of all beings.
• Mohammed (pbuh) is his messenger.
Islam has five pillars that represent the foundation stones of Islamic worship and action:
• Shahadah: A Muslim profession of faith ‘There is no God but Allah and Mohammed is the messenger of Allah’.
• Salat: A daily prayer ritual occurs five times at given times. It involves a prescribed sequence of kneeling and standing
postures and is made facing Makkah/Mecca.
• Zakat: The mandatory yearly payment (calculated on two and a half percent on certain kinds of property) is donated toward
charitable (usually the poor and needy) and religious purposes.
• Hajj: The pilgrimage to Makkah/Mecca which takes place at a fixed time of the calendar. It is a requirement to travel to
Mecca at least once in a lifetime for those who can afford it.
• Sawm: During the month of Ramadan Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink and sexual acts from dawn till sunset.
Those who are unwell, elderly and travellers may be exempt.
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Places of worship:
Prayer can take place anywhere and often a rug is used to mark out the place of prayer.
The word mosque means a place of prostration and can refer to any place of prayer. Purpose built mosques will be used for
communal prayer, community gatherings, Quranic education and the gathering together for the traditional Friday mid-day sermon.
No images representing a living being are allowed in the mosque, which could be decorated very artistically using calligraphy.
Culture/festivals:
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the month of the Islamic fast. The appearance of the new moon at
the end of Ramadan marks the beginning of the festival of Eid ul Fitr.
During this festival Muslims visit the mosque, give charity, exchange presents and cards and celebrate with family and friends.
Eid ul Adha coincides with the completion of the pilgrimage to Makkah/Mecca.
It is celebrated by pilgrims and non-pilgrims alike and unites the whole Islamic community, the Ummah (community) with the Hajj
(pilgrimage). At this time Muslims offer sacrifices of lambs or other animals to commemorate the sacrifice of Abraham’s son.
Food and diet:
Muslims differentiate between food which is allowed (halal), and food which is forbidden (haram).
Pork, any other part of the pig, carnivorous animals or blood is haram. Meat must also be slaughtered according to biblical rites by
a Muslim butcher. The consumption of alcohol is also forbidden.
Concerns of the community:
One of the pillars of Islamic faith is the material and financial provision for those who are most in need of help including orphans,
widows and the poor.
Judaism
Origins:
The Jewish people trace their origins to the biblical Israelites whose Hebrew culture became distinct from other Western Semitic
cultures approximately 3500 years ago. The Jewish religion of today, known as Rabbinic Judaism, took form following the
destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 Common Era.
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Beliefs:
Jews believe that the one true God established a covenant with Abraham to make them a great nation and to give them land of
Israel as their inheritance so long as they obey God’s commandments. Male infant circumcision is still practiced today as a symbol
of that covenant. Later, God dictated divine revelation (Torah) in the form of the Bible to Moses. A mix of lore and law, Jews believe
revelation can be used to derive proper Jewish practice.
Contemporary Jews hold a wide array of beliefs. There is no consensus about the afterlife. Doctrines regarding the messianic era
and chosen’s are debated. The Holocaust has made theodicy (why God permits evil to exist) particularly challenging. As a result,
some Jews embrace agnosticism or atheism while maintaining traditional Jewish practice and folk-ways.
Customs and practices:
Judaism first and foremost prioritises practice over belief. Jews traditionally believe that the Torah contains 613 commandments
(mitzvot) which constitute Jewish law (halacha). Strict observance of the Sabbath (Friday night to Saturday night) and dietary laws
(kashrut) are prominent features of Jewish practice. Overarching principles, such as the value of life over death, may be used to
prioritise certain commandments over others.
Distinctions in practice exist between Jewish denominations. Orthodox Jews usually observe stricter practices while Reform/
Progressive Jews adapt practices to suit contemporary life.
Places of worship:
Jewish people worship in a synagogue, which is often a centre for the many aspects of communal life. Jewish spiritual leaders are
rabbi, scholars and interpreters of Jewish text.
During prayer men wear head coverings (kippot/yalmukot) as a symbol of humility and respect. Some Orthodox women cover their
hair once married. In Orthodox synagogues men and women sit separately while in Reform/Progressive synagogues they
sit together.
Culture/festivals:
Judaism has no shortage of festivals. The High Holidays: the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah) and the Day of Atonement (Yom
Kippur) and the Three Pilgrimage Festivals: the Festival of Booths and Celebration of Torah (Sukkot and Simchat Torah), the Festival
of Passover (Passover), and the Festival of Weeks (Shavuot) are considered most important. The Festival of Lights (Hanukah), the
New Year for the Trees (Tu Bishvat) and the Feast of Lots (Purim) are minor holidays. Contemporary Jews also celebrate Israeli
national holidays.
Jewish culture tends to be family-centric. Jewish food, arts, and humour are major sources of pride. Zionism (support for the
modern State of Israel) is a strongly held value although Jews, especially in the diaspora, readily acknowledge the imperfections of
the state of Israel.
Concerns of the community:
Concerns of the community includes: maintaining the ability to uphold the religious rituals of circumcision and Jewish dietary laws,
ensuring facilities to comply with Jewish practices of swift burial, and raising awareness among hospital staff of the specific needs
of Jewish patients, particularly when dying and after death. Some Jews have concern regarding non-Jewish religious observance in
schools and there are also some issues relating to organ donation.
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Humanism
Origins:
Humanism is a diverse movement of free thought.
It is a coherent moral and ethical standpoint independent of religion, an ethical way of life that comes from a human
consciousness, which extends to all people, irrespective of their chosen life styles or personal decisions and views.
Beliefs:
Humanism is a belief in the advancement and understanding of humanity through its own efforts.
Human Rights law is important to all humanist organisations globally, they endorse the principles of humanitarian ideals that are
enshrined in such declarations, covenants and conventions, as well as universal initiatives which promote the peaceful
co-habitation of the entire world’s people, especially through the United Nations. Essentially, its beliefs and fundamental principles
are embodied in The Amsterdam Declaration 2002.
Customs and practices:
Customs and practices are determined on a personal basis with the foundations of reason, experience and compassion at the
centre.
Registered Humanist celebrants conduct non-religious ceremonies to observe life rites (e.g. birth, coming of age, marriage, death)
and other public and private occasions.
Places of worship:
The term worship is not relevant to Humanism.
Humanists meet regularly in all main centres of population to talk, learn and share ideas, to debate, discuss and campaign on social
and moral issues, and to socialise and celebrate life and significant events.
Culture/festivals:
Humanists celebrate rites of passage; and may observe commonly taken holidays and may incline towards nature-based
celebrations. Many Humanists now celebrate Darwin Day on 12 February.
Concerns of the community:
Humanists aim to create an open and inclusive society, and so campaign for a secular state and for secular education.
Most importantly its main concern is that peace, harmony and sustainability can and must prevail on earth by human will and effort,
and that this can only be via conscious collective means at this point in our evolution.
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Māori spirituality
Origins:
The traditional Māori world view was of a three-tiered, inter-related structure made up of the Realm of Ultimate Reality the gods,
the Realm of the Human, and the Realm of the Dead. This world view binds Māori society together as a functional whole, producing
a holistic view of life.
Beliefs:
Mauri (life force), mana (power, authority), tapu (sacred, prohibition, restrictions) and noa (common, ordinary things, free from tapu)
are the essence of Māori spirituality.
Traditionally for Māori, all things have a type of soul or life force (mauri), which creates strong spiritual ties to the land. Therefore
many Māori do not see their existence as something separate or opposed to the world around them. Birds, fish, plants, rocks, the
moon and mist - all living and natural things are genealogically linked to people.
Genealogy (whakapapa) contains the means by which history is able to be captured, recorded and passed on. Whakapapa is
recounted in a complex and rich tradition of mythology, legend, narrative, ritual, song, names and the arts. The supernatural and
the superhuman feature prominently in many of these ancient explanations and weave together the strands of Māori identity with
their connections to land, water, and tribal stewardship.
Customs and practices:
Mana (power, authority) is recognised in many things including people, land, nature and man-made objects. Touching objects or
beings containing mana by non-authorised people or objects can cause the mana and the tapu of the object to be diminished.
An understanding of mana and whakapapa prepares one to seek appropriate Māori protocols, for example medicinal plants. After
finding the right plant, one must seek permission from Tāne (god of forest) and perform the correct customary protocol such as a
prayer (karakia). Another example is fishing. Seek permission from Tangaroa (god of Sea) before fishing and the practise of respect
for the sea by never polluting it.
Places of worship:
Depending on the circumstances the prayers and incantations called karakia can be offered anywhere. If for instance soldiers were
to go to war, karakia would be offered at the side of a stream or on the wharf or tarmac before they boarded their ship or plane.
However, one of the most prevalent and important site of worship is the marae where all important events for the tribe and
families occur.
Culture/festivals:
A number of festivals are celebrated with a diverse range of causes or visions in mind. Some festivals bring together huge
numbers of people (perhaps from different tribes) to compete and celebrate cultural diversity in showcasing traditional performing
arts called kapa haka. These festivals are based on ancient genre of action songs, haka, poi and mōteatea. Much of this sung poetry
and chanted songs are recited with persistent references to gods and Māori spiritual beliefs. Other festivals like waka ama (double
hulled canoe racing) must begin with karakia to Tangaroa.
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Some tribes host traditional Māori foods and preservation festivals with incantations to Haumia and Rongo, (god of cultivate foods).
One of the major festivals on the Māori calendar is the Matariki Festival. This celebrates the Māori New Year with the appearance
of the cluster of stars called Matariki (the Pleiades).
Food and diet:
The traditional diet of the Māori was sourced from the sea and forest. Inland tribes would trade birds and forest products with their
coastal relatives for seafood fish and dried or dehydrated products as a source of salt for the long winter months.
For some tribes like Te Arawa and Tūwharetoa access to geothermal steam is a favoured way of cooking food. Others still use the
hangi where food is prepared and cooked in ovens in the ground producing a distinctive smoky earthy flavour. All foods, fruit and
vegetables are consumed in the modern Māori diet.
There are a number of protocols that may apply to the handling of food and food related items. For example, karakia (prayer or
incantation) is often said before eating food; it is preferable that food is not passed over or kept near a person’s head; and it is
preferable to refrain from sitting on tables on which food is served as these are transgressions of tapu.
Concerns of the community:
Māori as tangata whenua (people of the land) have a unique responsibility as stewards of the natural and intellectual resources
within Aotearoa New Zealand.
The Treaty of Waitangi supports an indigenous Māori emphasis on tino rangatiratanga (issues relating to self-determination and
sovereignty) which is crucial to the fulfilment of the stewardship role which can contribute positively to all who live or choose to
also call this country home.
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‘Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion’
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (plain text version), Article 18 [Human Rights in NZ 2010 p141]
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