The importance of Orthodoxy

The requirement of religious instruction is based on the connection which exists between the Orthodox standard in Greece (article 3 of the Constitution) and the national and religious consciousness of students (article 16 of the Constitution). According to article 16 of the Constitution “education constitutes a basic mission for the State and shall aim at the moral, intellectual, professional and physical training of Greeks, the development of national and religious consciousness and at their formation as free and responsible citizens”.
Law 1566/85 reinforces the Orthodox standard in Greek religious instruction by requiring the development of a typically Orthodox consciousness that is in line with the Church’s theology.
Religion classes on the whole remain largely influenced by the prevailing Orthodox religion. Religious instruction manuals give very limited attention to other religions and the analytical programme of religion class is marked by an Orthodox approach on Christianity that is reflected in religious instruction manuals.