Thursday, April 12, 2012

Report suggests Angelus be replaced by communal prayer

Changes in how religion is treated in all primary schools in the future, including those that remain under the control of the Catholic Church, are among key recommendations in the report.

It makes two main points -- that all children should receive a general education about religion and that the daily life of schools should be inclusive and respectful of the different faiths of their pupils.

It suggests that the Department of Education should draw up guidelines to help boards of management develop policies in these areas.

The sort of changes envisaged include:

* A new 'education in religion and beliefs and ethics programme' for all schools, drawn up by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA).

* Preparation for sacraments, such as First Communion and Confirmation, be taken out of the school day in Catholic schools.

* The display of religious artefacts, such as statues in Catholic schools, not be confined to one faith but balanced to represent the different religions in the schools.

* The traditional morning prayer and the Catholic practice of saying the Angelus at noon replaced by communal prayers that are respectful of the beliefs of all pupils and do not conflict with their constitutional, legal or human rights.