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Abstract

The identity of Catholic schools is closely tied to the proclamation of official Church teachings. One area of sustained contemporary attention for Church officials is the relationship between Catholics and Jews. Since the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) great strides have been taken by Church officials to recognise and repair relations between Catholics and Jews. A series of official documents in the decades following the Council has outlined the directions in which Catholic educators, catechists, liturgists, scripture scholars and theologians are required to pursue in formulating their responses to the challenges of repair and restoration of relations between Catholics and Jews. These official declarations require a careful consideration of the songs, prayers, rituals and language used in Catholic educational contexts to avoid continuing the centuries-long misunderstanding within the Catholic Church that Christianity inherited God’s promises to Jews and Judaism and had therefore replaced Jews and Judaism in God’s plan for humanity. This article identifies and analyses songs, prayers and rituals used in Catholic educational contexts that require revision. Suggestions for reforming contemporary practice in Catholic schools are offered.

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