Tenth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

This paper critiques the restrictive curriculum in secondary Catholic education as outlined by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The curriculum leaves little room for self-inquiry and transformative thought processes that are vital to the spirit and evolving consciousness of teenage women. This paper engages the pedagogical method of creative inquiry to expand Catholic education in America. This study argues that the available curriculum for Christian Lifestyles and Christian Social Justice pedagogically privileges traditions of oppression in the Catholic Church. This critique proposes that the research method of creative inquiry as outlined by Dr. Alfonso Montuori offers a renewed pedagogy grounded in the Christian values of service and liberation. Montuori argues that the attitude of creative inquiry shapes the knowledge making process through rigor and engagement. It draws from our “deepest motivations” and invites transformative opportunities for students to make meaning in the world.