The primary goal of religious education (RE) in Germany is to enable students to develop a personal worldview. According to the literature, this goal can best be achieved when RE a) presents material from various worldviews and b) relates this material to the student's daily life. Denominational RE, which is the organisational format of this…

This article critically reviews the European religious education landscape and argues that a religious notion of religion prevails in most models, not only in confessional RE but also in integrative models and even in so-called alternative subjects that are compulsory for pupils who do not take part in confessional RE. Thus, schools in Europe…

Thinking sexuality education and religion together often results in antagonisms that pit religious and secular values against each other. Political theology provides new insights into this tendency by showing how modern concepts of political legitimacy are based on secularised Christian theology. Neoliberal schooling, public sexual health and…

The article addresses the special mission of Catholic schools within the educational system in Germany. The considerations centre on the fundamental mission of the Church to announce the Good News of Jesus Christ as light of nations, and hence to be itself light of the world. Consequently, the essential distinctive characteristic of Catholic…

The historical relations of public education to the institutions of religion have been variously significant. While governmental affairs and ecclesiastical affairs have been set apart from each other in this country, the teaching of sectarian doctrines is generally excluded from the schools of the several States, an understanding of the relations…

Contends that teaching only about the 1933-1945 period of German persecution of Jews serves a very limited purpose. Argues that the foundations of anti-Semitic beliefs and practices have a long history and should be part of Holocaust education. Describes the origins, development, and key events in anti-Semitism in Europe. (CFR)

Maintains that, in World War II Europe, a tiny minority of Christians attempted to protect and stand up for the persecuted Jews. Asserts that their selflessness, courage, and compassion stand out in stark contrast to the indifference shown by most European Christians. Discusses characteristics of those who demonstrated this altruism. (CFR)

Maintains that, 50 years after World War II, few people are aware that Jews were not the only Nazi victims. Describes Nazi persecution against Gypsies, homosexuals, blacks, political dissenters, and other groups. Contends that every new generation of students should learn about the devastating effects of prejudice. (CFR)