Believing in Australia

Book excerpt: Australians have been slow to appreciate the rich variety of their religious inheritance. Believing in Australia is a much-needed cultural history of Australia's many religions which goes well beyond existing studies of denominationalism. Hilary Carey traces the changes in religions practice brought by waves of migration, including European occupation and the post-war growth of Orthodox, Jewish, Muslim and Buddhist communities. She also examines the slow European discovery of Aboriginal religions, the vital importance of religion for women and the recent growth of Christian fundamentalism and New Age sects. Believing in Australia demonstrates the central place of religion in the Australian experience and offers an engaging introduction to Australia's religious history for believers and non-believers alike. 'A landmark book: it opens up major new themes in Australian history which demand attention.' - Edmund Campion, Catholic Institute of Sydney 'Hilary Carey deftly weaves the histories of Australia's faith communities into a coat of many colours. Essential and absorbing reading for all who believe in Australia and its future as an integrated multi-religious nation.' - Rachel Kohn, 'Religion Today', Radio National