Exploring perennial questions of meaning, value and purpose in today's modern context.

Penn Charter's Religious Studies and Philosophy Department prepares students to engage thoughtfully with the world's most enduring questions. Through personal reflection, Socratic discussion and research, students explore three integrated areas:

• Quaker Testimonies — Grounding students in the values and pedagogy of Friends education through lived experience and community engagement.
• Religious Literacy & Moral Intelligence — Building the critical thinking skills needed to engage across difference with curiosity and respect.
• Philosophy & Ethics — Raising questions of individual and collective responsibility to equip students for lives of purpose and impact.

Though primarily an Upper School program, Religious Studies connects across divisions throughout the year, anchored by the Center for Public Purpose.

Our teachers don’t merely provide answers – they foster a spirit of inquiry, challenging students to think critically, engage thoughtfully and embrace lifelong learning. 'Let your life speak' is a Quaker saying that captures what we want for our students – for them to live their truth and to care for the larger community. At Penn Charter, students learn to see the Inner Light in themselves and in others. Here, everyone's voice and strengths matter. 

Michael Lostracco, Religious studies department chair