October 2009
Christianity
Culture and Religion
Information Sheet
CULTURE AND RELIGION
October 2005
Christianity
INFORMATION SHEET
Introduction
Western Australia is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multicultural society. Religious freedom and mutual
respect for different religions is an important underlying principle of multiculturalism and democracy.
Service providers who recognise, value and promote cultural and religious diversity can address more
fully the needs of their clients. Respecting the roles of religion in various cultures is part of courteous,
ethical and professional behaviour, which promotes a just and equitable society.
This Information Sheet aims to raise awareness and understanding of Christian religious and cultural
practices to assist service providers in the government and non-profi t community sectors in improving
service delivery.
Christians have been in Western Australia since 1827. There are more than one thousand Christian
churches or other worship centres in Western Australia. Christian churches are divided into a variety of
denominations, each with their own specifi c ways of worshipping and teachings. However, all are united
in the acknowledgement of the Lord Jesus Christ as God and Saviour as witnessed to by the scriptures
and in the life of the Church. Christians believe in the Trinity: one God in three persons, the Father, Son
and Holy Spirit.
Christians in Western Australia worship in over 40 languages. They come from many different countries,
and this means that they can also share the culture of their homeland as well as being part of the
worldwide Christian church. West Australian Christians may be:
• From a variety of European countries such as the United Kingdom, Italy, Greece, Spain, Holland,
Germany, etc.
• From Asian countries including the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Korea and China.
• From Pacifi c Island countries including Tonga and Samoa.
• From African countries including Egypt, Sudan, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia and Eritrea, and South