Religions

Religion in Australia

• No official state religion

• About 52% of Aussies identify as Christian

• Lots of variety in practiced religions

• Australia has a strong tradition of secular government

• But religious organizations have played a significant role

  • For example, Christian churches impacted the development of education, health and welfare services
  • The Roman Catholic Church is the largest non-government provider of health and education services in Australia

General Etiquette for Visiting Places of Worship

• Many of the best sights are cathedrals, basilicas, or other edifices considered holy
• Remember that many of these sacred sites are also living quarters for monks and nuns
• Be aware and considerate of those who are praying
• Speak quietly
• Your phone should be switched to silent upon entering any grounds of worship
• Don’t use your phone (texting or talking)
• Don’t point with your fingers or touch statues
• Don’t have inappropriate conversations
• Don’t chew gum
• Don’t walk in front of others praying
• Don’t walk across or in front of statues or other holy items
• Don’t eat (have your picnic elsewhere!)

Photography — Flash or Otherwise

• Many cathedrals don’t allow flash photography and some don’t allow any type of pictures or videos
• Look around for signs and directions before
• Always ask a guard or official if in doubt

Proper Dress

• Dress to visit a cathedral can be casual
• Always remove your hat when entering a cathedral
• Regardless of gender, don’t wear revealing clothing. You should cover your
  – Shoulders
  – Legs above the knee
  – Stomach/midriff

Worship Etiquette

• You may pray or worship at sacred sites
• Be genuine and never mock

Lighting Candles

• Typically worshippers light them when entering the cathedral
• Worshippers light them as they pray, making an offering to accompany their prayers
• There are certain times, when candles should not be lit (usually during the service); ask a church usher if in doubt

Venerating (kissing) icons

• It is traditional for worshipers to venerate (kiss) the icons located in the narthex
• You don’t have to do this
• If you do venerate an icon, remember it is improper to kiss an icon on the face
• You should blot any lipstick beforehand

During a Service

• Dress appropriately
• For men, wear a suit and tie or a sports jackets and slacks with a tie
• For women, have your shoulders covered, and dresses/skirts should be knee length or longer
• Arrive at the church before the service starts
• During the service, there are some moments when no one should be moving around
• One basic rule: whenever the priest faces the people or is outside the altar on the solea, either censing or blessing, everyone should stand wherever they are
• Refrain from chewing gum or using a cell phone/camera during a service
• Refrain from slouching or crossing your legs
• If you choose to receive the Holy Communion, you should eat it carefully so no crumbs fall
• Don’t leave the church before dismissal

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