Find and define in your own words ten vocabulary words from the reading material in O’Connor.

Are there any elements common to Roman Catholicism and the world religions described by O’Connor? What are they?

What elements of Roman Catholicism distinguish it from other world religions and Christian denominations?

Although Roman Catholicism comprises the largest community of faith in the world, Catholics living in rural Oklahoma often feel isolated through their experience as a minority population. In fact, Catholics still encounter varying degrees of hostility and suspicion on the part of their neighbors. Likewise, Catholic beliefs are often challenged by aggressive persons who have use of the "authority of Scripture" ready at hand. Sometimes this causes one to feel insecurity in one’s faith, and can lead some to leave their Catholic faith heritage to experience the fellowship they perceive in other church communities.

In a 2-3 page essay, reflect on your experience of living as a Catholic in this environment of the "Bible Belt." You may reflect on your awareness of your distinct faith as a child, and on the way that you have reacted when challenged by others. Has this experience made you feel insecure in your identity, or has it rather made you strong and proud to be a Catholic? Feel free to give specific examples of how you have lived out your faith, and how you have been received or rejected as a result.

Questions and Essays are due at the beginning of class on January 20, 2000.

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