Reconciliation: the work of Desmond Tutu

Religious education

In this unit pupils look at the huge question of forgiveness and reconciliation. This study focusses on the Christian tradition and analyses case studies of Coventry and South Africa to illuminate how Christian teaching inspired individuals to begin the difficult task of reconciliation.

Forgiveness: Is reconciliation possible?

Discriminatory behaviour or images, whether on the grounds of race, gender, disability, religion or belief or sexual orientation, or otherwise.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

allow victims to tell their stories and offenders to seek forgiveness

What does the Truth and Reconciliation Commission do?

Desmond Tutu lived in South Africa where there was a system of apartheid.

As a Priest and a Bishop, Tutu spoke up for the ending of apartheid.

When apartheid ended, Desmond Tutu argued that people needed to heal, not hate.

Desmond Tutu was part of the Truth and Reconciliation commission.

Put the events of Desmond Tutu's life in order.

It is home to many different people, cultures and languages.

It has lots of colourful birds and flowers.

More rainbows can be seen there than in other African countries.

Why did Desmond Tutu call South Africa a “Rainbow Nation”?

Jesus said ‘Blessed are the peacemakers’.

Jesus said to forgive not seven times, but seventy times seven.

Jesus stood up for the poor and those treated unfairly.

Match Desmond Tutu's actions to the teachings of Jesus.

Why is Nelson Mandela an important figure in history?

Which part of the South African flag represents the journey from division to peace?

How do Christians interpret 'I tell you, forgive, not seven times, but seventy times seven times.'

being kind, working together, and living without fighting or fear

being able to make choices, speak your mind, and live without unfair rules

fixing a broken friendship or making peace after a disagreement

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Adult supervision recommended

Starter Quiz