PAROHIA ȘI ȘCOALA: COMUNITĂȚI COMPLEMENTARE PENTRU O EDUCAȚIE RELIGIOASĂ INTEGRALĂ

Abstract

Parish and School: Synergistic Communities for an Integral Religious Education.
This study explores the vital role of religious education in nurturing the moral and spiritual character of contemporary youth, emphasizing the need to reinforce religious feelings and expressions of religiosity through a collaborative approach involving both clergy and laity. It argues that religious education should be a synergistic process integrating theological, psychological, and social competencies. The study posits that any education that neglects the spiritual dimension is incomplete and potentially harmful, particularly in today’s society, where young people often experience confusion and disorientation. By examining scriptural and patristic traditions and historical perspectives, the research highlights Jesus Christ as the ultimate behavioural and educational model, promoting an education that encourages both inquiry and faith. The study underscores the importance of the Church, particularly at the parish level, in providing a comprehensive religious education where young people can experience faith, peace, freedom, and unity. Our discussion emphasizes the need for a shift in the Church’s approach to engaging young individuals effectively. We advocate for simplifying theological teachings to make them more accessible and relatable, fostering a gradual understanding of faith. Our call is for dynamic activities and open discussions that resonate with youth, aiming to revitalize church traditions and create an inclusive atmosphere. Overall, we underscore the importance of adapting parish communities to meet the evolving needs of young people, ensuring their sense of relevance and belonging within the Church. The research also addresses the current relevance of religious education within the context of legislative changes in Romania highlighting aspects such as the impact of religious language on students’ identities and behaviours. We have interpreted and leveraged specific sociological research on the topic that reveal a predominant sense of religiosity among Romanians, with younger individuals displaying varying levels of commitment. The necessity of religious education in schools receives broad support across age demographics, particularly among older respondents. Recent legislative changes in Romania, such as the inclusion of Religion as an optional subject in Advanced level examination reflect ongoing developments in religious education. Additionally, the text discusses the current state of religious teaching resources and infrastructure, providing statistics on educators and students involved in religious studies. Overall, it presents a comprehensive overview of the relationship between religious education, cultural identity, and social behaviour in contemporary Romanian society.