VISIT TO A HINDU TEMPLE

Information for Parent/Guardian:

During RE lessons we will be looking at the beliefs and customs of some of the major world religions. In order to provide an opportunity to enhance pupils' understanding and appreciation of places of worship, we propose to take all Year 9 students to visit a Hindu Temple (and a Jewish Synagogue - see link on homepage) in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

The visit will take place on Friday October 20th 2006. We will leave school at 8.45am and should be back in Saltburn by 3.00pm.

To make this visit viable, we ask that you make a contribution of £5.50 towards the cost of transport.

Students need to wear sensible clothing and to bring a packed lunch with them (those receiving free school meals will be provided with a packed lunch).

What you will find out about on your visit:

You will find out about the Hindu concept of God (Brahman) as being so unlike anything we know that it defies all description. Brahman is everything and everywhere but cannot be seen, even in your mind. To make it easier to imaging Brahman, Hindus represent God as a Trinity - the gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Brahman can also take the form of other gods and goddesses, some of which are in human form. You will have an opportunity to learn about these forms during the visit.

In The Temple:

A Hindu temple is the home of a god or goddess (Deity) and it is the priest's job to look after them. Hindus come to the temple to visit the Deity. You will learn why we take our shoes off at the door, what the Bell is for, why the temple is decorated the way it is, and so on.

Worship:

You will learn about the temple Shrine and how Hindus pray to their chosen Deity, including learning about offerings, the importance of light (fire), and what ceremonies the priest carries out.

Weblinks:

You can find out more at www.bbc.co.uk/schools/religion/hinduism

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