You don't understand. I don't want to be privileged. Christians are not privileged really, nowadays.
Except in the legislature, educational provision, and other auspices of the State.
There are huge swathes of modern life we can't be part of - or at least, that are inconsistent with our beliefs and therefore problematic to be part of. You would not turn to Christianity nowadays if privilege was what you wanted. Going to church is not a plus in anyone's book; quite the opposite.
Well, except for those who feign Christianity (or suddenly become more religiously observant) in roughly the right time frame to get their child into a state-funded faith-selective school.
So it isn't privilege I'm after. Let's not misinterpret wink. I think Christianity, (though imperfectly practised) is a good thing for people and it's a pity that it's not the default setting for more of modern life.^
Well yes, that's quite arrogant, isn't it?
This is all about beliefb- your whole post is, really. And here's the thing. I respect your right to hold those beliefs and nowhere on this thread has anyone suggested you shouldn't hold them or tried to undermine them. Simply suggested that respect should be mutual and when we are talking about what is best for all children objectivity is vital. That's why I'm not suggesting atheist schools. That's why the BHA is explicitly against Humanist schools.
Its values make a good template for school life and the school ethos.
What values are distinctly/uniquely Christian, out of interest?
Although I genuinely would not want to impose my faith on those who were unwilling and genuinely would want to enable others of different faiths to worship, I'm not coming at this from a relativistic standpoint and make no apology for that.
'I know best, and any children who haven't decided are fair game.'
We can believe one thing while also recognising the worth and validity of other beliefs and without undermining those who hold them. It doesn't mean we think they're of equal value.
But we aren't willing to see all beliefs treated equally in state institutions.
If your word for teaching Christianity and practising it is evangelism, go ahead and use it. However, it's inaccurate because it places too much of an emphasis on making new recruits when most of what we're talking about is simple practising of the faith.
Evangelism is what the Bible and the Church of Engand call teaching Christianitu to non-Christians; it isn't my word.
However you can't practice the faith communally without an element of growth (teaching) or witness (evangelism) although there is certainly the opportunity for children who do not want anything to do with that not to be there.
That isn't true - no children (even over 18) have the right to opt themselves out.
What would be done in this neutral reflective space? Is that somewhere for one to look inwards? A good thing to do sometimes but I would argue against a belief that wisdom or understanding or (insert whatever is supposed to be happening for the student here) is primarily found in that way.
Then why did you suggest it for non-Christian children?
There is no need to invoke a particular deity or religion to children to discuss values, ethics, moral challenges or personal growth.
One thing is for sure - that neutral space will not be neutral unless you are literally sitting in silence.
I thought 'religiously neutral' was implied; clearly not. I foolishly mirrored your words without clarifying what I understood by them.
Non-Christians are not expected to leave the room. That's over-stating and suggesting a degree of exclusivity that isn't there.
If their parents don't wish them to partake of
Christian worship then yes, that's exactly what happens.
They can leave if they wish, or they can stay and observe respectfully.
Incorrect. And anyway, why are Christian faith practices more deserving of respectful observance (which may be at odds with their own faiths) than theirs?
I wasn't aware of suggesting that would improve integration. As important as integration is, I have other fish to fry.
Yes, got to collect those young souls while they're impressionable.
I don't want there to be a completely secular society. I don't like the way a 99% secular society is going.
How does the proportion of faith schools in the state sector skew that figure of yours? It seems a little high even in our minority Chrisian society.
I think the more Christianity we have in our institutions, the better. Not because I want to feel privileged or on the inside track, but because our institutions need to be informed and guided by the solid moral principles that the New Testament provides.
Well yes, you do want privilege for your beliefs then, rather than recognising that (a) there's a lot of outdated and dodgy stuff in the New Teatament and (b) sound ethics and morals exist outside of a theocracy. It's disgraceful to suggest otherwise.