Influences of Religion to Culture and Society

Religion

• It helps people understand the meaning and purpose of life.

• It shapes beliefs, values, traditions, and practices.

• It strengthens identity and builds communities.

• Many of this have spiritual leaders or mentors (e.g., Priest/Pastor, Rabbi, Imam).

Meaning, Purpose, and Hope

• Religion provides: Meaning in life, Purpose, Hope

• Beliefs are expressed through: Traditions, Myths, Stories

• Helps people understand human existence.

Religion and Personal Identity

• Religion shapes: Personal identity, Values, Lifestyle

• Encourages: Compassion, Kindness, Charity, Social justice

• Promotes responsibility toward others.

Emotional and Ethical Guidance

• Religion encourages: Gratitude, Appreciation of blessings, Forgiveness

• Supports people during life's major events: Birth, Commitment, Death

• Provides an ethical framework for decision-making.

Religion and Education

• Religion teaches: Religious history, Cultural-traditions, Sacred symbols, Scriptures

• Helps connect ancient teachings to modern life.

Negative Influences of Religion on Society

Religion may have negative effects when it is misunderstood or misused:

• Can promote harmful or outdated beliefs.

• May discourage social progress.

• Can support uppressive guvernments or institutions.

• May create unequal use of public resources.

• Can contribute to religious conflicts and wars.

The Protestant Reformation

• (18th Century) Began in 1517.

• Started by Martin Luther in Germany.

• Martin Luther posted the Ninety-five Theses criticizing abuses in the Catholic Church.

• Challenged the authority of the Pope and Church practices.

Martin Luther

He started the Protestant Reformation in Germany in 1517.

Key Reformers in The Protestant Reformation

• Martin Luther - Germany

• John Calvin - Switzerland

• Henry VIII - England

Major Changes in The Protestant Reformation

• Rise of Protestant Churches.

• Translation of the Bible into local languages.

• Greater emphasis on personal faith and Scripture.

• Religious wars across Europe.

Counter-Reformation (Catholic-Reformation)

• Catholic Church's response to the Protestant Reformation.

• Led by Pope Paul III.

• Council of Trent (1646-1683) reaffirmed Catholic teachings.

• Improved education and discipline among clergy.

• Strengthened missionary work.

Pope Paul III

The Counter-Reformation (Catholic-Reformation) was led by him.

Council of Trent ( 1646 - 1583 )

They reaffirmed Catholic teachings.

Babri Masjid

• Located in Ayodhya, India.

• Built in the inth century during the Mughal Empire.

• Hindus believe Ayodhya, is the birthplace of Lord Rama.

• Some believed a Hindu temple once stood on the site before the mosque was built.

Demolition of Babri Masjid (1992)

• On December 6, 1992, the mosque was demolished by Hindu extremists.

• Triggered widespread riots across India.

• Thousands of people died.

• Increased tensions between Hindus and Muslims.

Significance of Barbi Masjid

• One of India's most serious religious conflicts.

• Demonstrated how religious and political disputes can lead to violence.

People Power Revolution (EDSA I)

• February 22-26, 1986

• Peaceful, nonviolent movement in the Philippines.

• Led to the end of President Ferdinand Marcos administration.

• Also known as the "Rosary Revolution".

• Key Figures: Corazon Aquino, Cardinal Jaime Sin, Fidel V. Ramos, Juan Ponce Enrile.

Role of Religion in the People Power Revolution (EDSA I)

• Cardinal Jaime Sin encouraged Filipinos to support peaceful protests.

• Priests, nuns, and ordinary citizens prayed together.

• Protesters offered flowers and prayers to soldiers.

• Soldiers refused to attack peaceful civilians.

Outcome of the People Power Revolution (EDSA I)

• Ferdinand Marcos left office.

• Corazon Aquino became President.

• Democracy was restored.

People Power Revolution (EDSA II)

• January 2001.

• Protest against President Joseph Estrada.

• Supported by religious leaders, civic groups, and citizens.

• Estrada stepped down from office.

Significance of the People Power Revolution (EDSA II)

It demonstrated the continuing influence of religion and civil society in Philippine democracy.