A prominent statement from Mayor Marcin Ratułowski centers on funding religious classes in Czarny Dunajec schools, following government changes under Donald Tusk. The mayor stated on Facebook that defending faith and protecting children is his duty, and he has the means to ensure the number of religious classes in local schools does not decline. Local officials and residents saw the message as a pledge that faith education remains a stable part of municipal schooling and a shared responsibility among the town, families, and religious communities. He argued that predictable funding for catechesis helps families plan, supports teachers, and preserves a facet of the local culture that many residents see as essential to the community’s character. The message underscored that faith formation belongs in the classroom while respecting the broader goals of public education.
Catechesis normally takes place at school.
During the municipal National Education Day celebration at Kornel Makuszyński Primary School in Piekielnik, the mayor reaffirmed that the local government has the opportunity to act and will take steps to safeguard catechesis within the school system. He conveyed that the ultimate authority over educational structure rests with the bodies that govern schooling, yet in Czarny Dunajec catechesis should continue to be conducted in schools as part of the standard curriculum.
He emphasized a resolve to pursue this path with responsibility and clarity, insisting that the continuity of religious instruction is an integral piece of the town’s educational landscape.
Science goes hand in hand with religion.
At a Holy Mass in Piekielnik, Father Zygmunt Hopciaś spoke about the school’s mission to seek truth, which he linked to the Creator. He suggested that scientific inquiry and faith are not rivals but companions on the path to understanding the world, and he framed religious education as a legitimate avenue for developing a balanced worldview.
It is my duty to defend the faith and our children.
The mayor also shared a forceful post on a social platform opposing any move to weaken religion classes. He reflected that learning belongs to everyone and that freedom and enlightenment flourish when families can choose meaningful educational paths. While he acknowledged the need for reforms in the education system, he insisted that certain aspects remain nonnegotiable for him as a Catholic and as a father. He stressed concern about attempts to limit the number of religion classes and highlighted the role these classes play in shaping a young person’s future and worldview, arguing that religion teaches a moral framework and supports healthy interpersonal relationships.
In remarks delivered at Kornel Makuszyński Primary School, the mayor reiterated his commitment to defending faith and children and asserted that he would use available authority to keep the number of religious classes from decreasing. He also noted that the decision to include religion in schools came from figures who helped secure Poland’s freedom, including John Paul II and many members of Solidarity, underscoring the historical importance of these lessons in national life.
He called on everyone who cares about children and matters of faith to unite in safeguarding access to religion and the nation’s cultural heritage. He warned against moving away from traditions that contribute to moral formation and social cohesion, arguing that progress should not come at the expense of essential values. The future of the nation, he said, depends on shared responsibility across families, schools, and the broader community.
President of the Polish Episcopate: A valuable subject
The head of the Episcopal Conference, Metropolitan Archbishop Tadeusz Wojda of Gdańsk, stated that students who do not wish to participate in religion classes should join an ethics class, with participation in two lessons considered mandatory within the school schedule. The archbishop described religion as a valuable subject that enriches learning and character, and he argued that understanding Polish culture and mentality is enhanced through regular study of faith. He added that scheduling religion lessons only at the first or last hour of the day is not feasible within a full timetable.
The Ministry of National Education, under political leadership aligned with Barbara Nowacka, has discussed a plan to reduce the number of religion lessons to one per week. The proposal has been opened for consultation, and the episcopate has urged continued dialogue to find a path that respects both educational integrity and the right to religious education. The Catholic community maintains that faith formation remains a pivotal component of a well-rounded education and national identity.
In this ongoing conversation, church leaders and educators alike advocate for thoughtful policy making, aiming to preserve a framework that allows students to explore faith, ethics, and culture without compromising academic standards or the diversity of educational options available to families.