Bishop Szymon Stułkowski condemned the ruling coalition’s education policies during a sermon at the 41st National Pilgrimage of Families to Jasna Góra.
Criticism of religion education cuts
During a Mass on September 28, Bishop Szymon Stułkowski of Płock accused the government of “making life difficult” regarding religious education in Polish schools. He referenced the Ministry of Education’s decision to reduce religion or ethics classes to one hour per week and exclude their grades from final averages, calling it a way to “discourage children and youth from attending catechism.”
Support for a citizens’ bill on religion and ethics
The Association of Lay Catechists submitted a citizens’ bill to the Sejm titled “Yes to Religion and Ethics in School,” proposing two mandatory weekly hours of religion or ethics. Bishop Stułkowski thanked the initiative’s supporters, urging prayers for its success in parliamentary committees. “Let us pray that ethical education in Polish schools will take place,” he said.
Opposition to health education
The bishop also criticized health education, introduced this school year. “If children and youth’s depravity is at risk, we say ‘no,'” he stated. He argued that those who made the subject optional knew it would face challenges, praising parents for resisting it. “School belongs to you, parents, not to the minister. These are your children, and you must defend them,” he added.
Minister defends health education
Education Minister Barbara Nowacka defended making health education optional, citing concerns about political conflicts. “Health education is not mandatory for a reason,” she said on TVP Info on September 22, advocating for gradual, peaceful changes.
