Written by: Michael Swain, FOR SA Executive Director
Article source: JOY! Magazine
In a world where it is increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction, one thing is demonstrably true: humans are deeply spiritual beings. Our spirituality is integral to our humanity. It gives us dignity and defines the purpose of our lives. It is our link with the past and its transference to our children is our hope for the future.
Opposing spirituality in all forms
However, as traditional, spiritually-based views and values have waned, a new ideology has become dominant – “Secular Paganism”. It has slowly but deliberately infiltrated policy and legal frameworks and is steadily eroding the fabric of values which have held our societies together for generations. It opposes spirituality in any form, because traditional beliefs typically reinforce what is called ‘oppressive patriarchy’ and the traditional role of the family.
The next generation is at stake
The greatest battle is for the hearts and minds of the next generation, because freedom of religion is deeply entwined with parental rights. Parents have the right, under international law, to pass on their values and their faith to their children. If parents are prevented from doing so, the values that have been handed down to them by their forefathers can literally be lost in a single generation.
Unfortunately, these rights are all too often overlooked or even undermined in the public education system. This is increasingly the frontline where secular ideology collides with spirituality, traditional values, and parental rights.
Age-inappropriate content
This can be clearly seen in the controversial area of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE). The philosopher Aristotle said, “Give me a child until he is seven and I will show you the man”. Parents are understandably concerned that teachings on radical gender ideology and other programmes within schools are causing unnecessary confusion. They are unhappy that explicit and often age-inappropriate CSE teachings, which emphasise sexual pleasure, are encouraging children to explore their sexuality when they are far too young to properly understand it.
Stand up for your rights
The spiritual truths and foundations upon which our societies have been built are ignored at our peril. It is for good reason that the Old Testament warns, “Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors” – Proverbs 22:28. As someone once said, “Those who will not fight to protect their rights, deserve to lose them.” Unless the right to religious freedom is vigorously defended and upheld, it can all too easily be lost. Parents in particular need to stand up and speak out to ensure that their viewpoints and values are both considered and respected. We owe this to our children, whose future and hope we now hold in our hands.
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Date published: 28/10/2022
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