Orthodox associations say religion must be mandatory school subject

A number of Orthodox organizations that recently formed the Alliance of Orthodox Associations plead for the introduction of religion as obligatory subject in schools. Members of the Alliance made related statements in a news conference on April 29, Info-Prim Neo reports. Ghenadie Valuta, the head of the association PRO Ortodoxia, considers that religion should be taught in the national schools as 93.4% of the Moldovans are Orthodox Christians. He said that the subject Orthodox Religion or Orthodox Christian Education must be mandatory for the children from Christian families and optional for those of other religions. Valuta said the Alliance of Orthodox Associations insists that the subject be introduced in schools from September 1, 2010. A referendum could be held to prove the justice of this decision and guarantee a safe future. The members of the Alliance said in primary schools the religion can be taught on the basis of the Orthodox Christian Education textbooks, while in secondary schools – on the basis of the guidebooks for teachers. The list of other necessary materials will be drawn up by the Ministry of Education in cooperation with the Church. Earlier, former Minister of Defense Valeriu Pasat also suggested holding a referendum on the introduction of religion in schools as compulsory subject. The initiative is backed by the Moldovan Metropolitan Church.