Poland's Ministry of Education rejects bishops' appeal on religious lessons

The Polish Ministry of National Education (MEN) has responded to an appeal from the Polish Episcopate regarding the status of religious education in schools. The bishops expressed concern that current regulations are marginalizing religious studies.

Key points of contention include the requirement for religious lessons to be held for one hour per week, scheduled immediately before or after mandatory educational activities, and the ability to organize lessons in inter-class groups. Additionally, current rules allow for religious education grades to be excluded from the student's grade point average.

In response to the bishops' call for a “real dialogue” and the restoration of the “proper place” for these lessons, MEN spokesperson Ewelina Gorczyca stated that the ministry “does not plan any changes” to the existing regulations regarding the organization of religious instruction in public kindergartens and schools.