Third Form Theology Brings Scripture to Life | News | Portsmouth Abbey School, Rhode Island

Fr. Benedict’s Third Form Theology course culminated with a memorably imaginative capstone project that asked students to make theology visible.

Drawing from an extensive selection of biblical passages, students were invited to create a visual representation of Baptism, understood through the traditional Christian roles of Priest, Prophet and King. The project asked them to trace how these identities, rooted in Scripture, shape a person’s life of faith, responsibility, and service. A gallery of images revealed thoughtful, personal responses and works that wove biblical stories into symbols and narratives, which found their way to the walls of the RLH for the week leading up to exam week.

For many students, the experience felt like a shared personal exploration. Third Form students Maribel, Lucia, and Chenyi (Alina) described Fr. Benedict’s classroom as an open, welcoming and discussion-driven space where questions were encouraged and belief was approached through conversation rather than pressure. Even students with little prior engagement in religious study felt drawn into the material through its emphasis on love and each person's story.

As students worked, they talked with one another and compared interpretations, connecting ideas across Scripture with their own experiences. Some found themselves reflecting on moments such as Baptism, First Communion or personal encounters with faith. These conversations unfolded naturally during class discussions and collaborative work.

What stood out most was the hands-on nature of the assignment. Students appreciated the opportunity to synthesize months of reading and discussion into something tangible and meaningful. Instead of summarizing theological points to present to the teacher for a good grade, they were constructing a story and discovering how ancient texts still speak meaningfully to our busy, contemporary lives.

The capstone works formed a quiet but powerful testament to learning at the Abbey: thoughtful, communal, and attentive to the whole person.