so i recently started studying about paganism and calling to find my gods and goddesses and all that, and before class started i was talking to my friends about it and my teacher came up to me and told me that i didnt need to be talking about those things at school. but there are christian kids that pray at school and talk about church. whats the difference?
2007-05-03 14:24:15 · 29 answers · asked by Manda P 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
The teacher could always stopped you for disturbing his class, his teachings while within his time. You should discuss and talk about your religion after the class or during vacant periods but not on the class room while the teachers is on the act of his teaching period. That will be considered insult to him.
jtm
2007-05-03 14:31:56 · answer #1 · answered by Jesus M 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Because of the separation of Church and State it should technically be that there should be no religion in schools, however it is obvious that there is anyway. You do need to respect your teacher's wishes, but not to the extent where you are being singled out. Ask your teacher about their rules on the subject and if they say that another religion (such as Christianity, as you made the example of) is tollerated by them then you should be able to talk about Paganism as well- and so should any other religions represented by students in your class. If your teacher just doesnt want any religion being spoken of in the classroom, there is probably a reason behind it. You may want to ask to gain a better understanding, but in answer to your last question: there is NO difference and NO one should be singled out about speaking to someone respectfully about spiritual beliefs!
2007-05-05 12:23:35 · answer #2 · answered by Ada S 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wow... listen to Jill display that ignorance- good for her!
Damn! That was really nauseating. I hate when people act that shallow minded- but that doesn't answer your question...
NO! Your teacher stepped on your feet there. If what you were doing was between classes and not offensive, you can talk about whatever you want. I would actually keep a note of this showing the date and time that it occured. Don't stop what you're doing if thats what you want to talk about. If the teacher asks you not to talk about it again, I would take it up with either the principal or the school board- and make a big issue of it. Don't go jumping down the teacher's throat in defense tho- that will just make you look bad. Simply, and politely tell the teacher that she has no right to ask you to stop talking about that with your friends and bring the complaint up to the next level- I assure you one talking to from the boss will clear this issue up.
2007-05-03 14:52:51 · answer #3 · answered by billthakat 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The public school system doesn't want discussions of ANY religion in the schools. I remember when prayer used to be allowed. You could spend your quiet time in prayer if you finished a test early and put your head down. You could say grace before the noon meal. I remember when it stopped too. I continued to pray and say grace but made sure no one knew I was doing it.
Paganism is a bit different tho. The teachers may've thought you were endorsing witchcraft. All Wiccans are Pagan. But not all Pagans are Wiccan. Maybe the teachers weren't able to separate the two and also worried about your safety.
2007-05-03 14:41:54 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Before you start to compare Christianity and Paganism, you need to study more about both. You sound young and that is one reason why you need to really know what your talking about before you compare your rights to the Christian rights. My Ancestors were Pagans. Go read about what the Norwegian Pagans did , back hundreds of years ago. If you admire that, then it is your rights. But now days Pagan is something of the past. I am not proud of what my Ancestors believed in and worshiped. I am happy they turned to Christianity. Your teacher is right. Listen to her and know that she knows what she is trying to teach you. I Respect your beliefs. If you want to be a Pagan, then be one. Same goes for the Christian kids. Good suggestion. Ask your teacher to allow a debate between the two religions. This would be a good debate.
2007-05-03 14:37:47 · answer #5 · answered by Norskeyenta 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes sadly the teacher can tell you to not speak about it, She can use the reference that it is a class room and you are there to learn (whatever she teaches), and the principle will probably say something similar.
Play it low-key, and if other kids try speaking about their religion, and she doesn't stop them, then quietly, ask that they be "asked" to not be talking about those things at school. (giving back what you've been dished out. [ but put your best sweet attitude and smile on, so you are not called the trouble maker]
the person who spoke of it not being legal is right. However, adults have ways to get around situations. It's the advantage of being older. the teachers actions can have something to do with school policy too.
If you are brave enough to speak up, apologize to the teacher, for disturbing his/her classroom, "that you were just excited to share something that is important to you. And you realize that others had shared topics on their religious views. Careful, don't make a war out of it...
Don't mind me, I am generally over cautious. I hope things go well! blessings
2007-05-04 09:55:48 · answer #6 · answered by kacymorley 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is no difference you are being treated unfairly.
The teacher can argue though that you were creating a disturbance or "preaching" and get away with it. Not right by any means, but a loop hole none the less.
I hope one day we can discuss such matters openly and maturely in public.
2007-05-03 14:31:38 · answer #7 · answered by Aria 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No difference at all hon ... and I'm a Christian btw.
You are free to talk about and worship as you please, tis your right. You cannot disrupt the class when in session or provide religious answers when asked a non-religious question (for instance, you cannot yell "praise the Lord!" when asked a math question ... you are supposed to provide a mathematical answer lol). However, if asked for your opinion, you are free to give it, no matter your 'religion'.
2007-05-03 14:29:05 · answer #8 · answered by arewethereyet 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
i think you have the right. Freedom of speech. You could organize a club or something for you and your friends. I go to a catholic school, so we could talk about it all we want, but in public schools you should be able to express your opinion as well. ( assuming u go to a public school ). For some reason, teachers arent able to share their views,
2007-05-03 14:29:33 · answer #9 · answered by rybka 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It shows the bias in schools towards Christianity and the crushing of any real discussion into belief.
I bet you anyone trying to put an atheist point of view will also be stopped.
As to the validity of paganism - its as valid as any other religion as it tries to explain the world
2007-05-03 14:37:45 · answer #10 · answered by Freethinking Liberal 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋