Replication of a design - Combined religious education for grades one and two.
Starting next year, a new initiative for religious education will be implemented in the first two primary school classes. This move allows Catholic and Protestant students to be taught together if organizational factors make separate confessional education impossible and there's no clear majority of either group in the classroom. The students will be taught by a teacher from their respective denomination, following the curriculum associated with their teacher's faith.
In practice, the "KoRUk" project - a development of existing religious education models - must be designed to be "confessionally sensitive." Professors Stefanie Lorenzen from the University of Bamberg's Department of Protestant Theology and Konstantin Lindner from the Department of Catholic Theology offer insight into their experiences. Terms like highlighting commonalities, considering differences, and acknowledging the unique aspects are essential aspects of the educational process.
Certainly, it's essential to explore the oversimplification of differences and considering their importance for younger children. Lorenzen explains to dpa that the key is not overemphasizing or underplaying these differences. Taking into account the expertise of the other denomination is crucial. Lindner adds that teaching students about common aspects of Christianity, like rituals, is vital.
Collaboration between Catholics and Protestants in Bamberg's teacher training for religious education is a reflection of this practical approach. According to Lindner, both sides work to set an example for students and teachers. Clear communication with parents is also crucial. The model project has benefits, including addressing falling student enrollment and teacher shortages, promoting religious diversity, and facilitating dialogical confrontation - allowing shared discovery of different traditions.
Matthias Belafi, head of the Catholic Office in Bavaria, emphasizes that the initiative is a church-supported endeavor. "Religious education in school is highly valuable for students, churches, and society as a whole. It contributes to the development of individuals and promotes social harmony, particularly during periods of political and social turmoil."
The labor market for religious instructors remains relatively stable in Bavaria but could become an issue as retirement ages approach. The distribution of teachers across the region is also uneven, with some areas having an abundance and others experiencing a shortage. Even though the model has its challenges, Lorenzen believes that this approach will support students in understanding the similarities and differences between religious traditions.
Johannes Minkus, spokesperson for the Protestant Church, stresses that the initiative underscores the churches' commitment to religious education. He notes that debates about reducing the "Reli" (religious education) hours in grades 3 and 4 have become a recent concern but believes this approach can enrich education by examining the diverse traditions. "The freedom to choose one's faith, basic values, and interreligious competencies are essential for the spiritual well-being of young people and their place in society as a whole."
