Aftenposten discusses the proposed obligation for schools to provide religious services during school hours, arguing that this shifts the focus from educating about religion to facilitating religious practices. While the idea may seem connected to tradition and cultural heritage, it undermines the essential principle that schools should serve as inclusive communities for all children rather than platforms for religious teachings.

The article highlights that the distinction is not between Christianity and other religions, but between knowledge and preaching. Norwegian schools are called to educate students about various religions, allowing them to visit churches, mosques, and temples as part of their learning; however, attending a religious service is fundamentally different from a neutral educational visit. A religious service, led by a priest, involves prayer and preaching intended for worship, thus lacking the neutrality required in educational settings.

By suggesting that schools must conduct religious services, we risk blurring the lines between education about religion and the endorsement of religious practices, which could alienate non-religious students and those from different faith backgrounds. Therefore, Aftenposten firmly believes that maintaining a secular space within schools is crucial for fostering an educational environment that respects and inclusively serves all students, irrespective of their religious beliefs.