Actually, I disagree with you there, Erich, on religious schools not being needed. I believe religious schools or private schools, now more than ever are they needed. However, I do agree that they shouldn't be needed. But, the public school system is getting so fruity with its political correctness I don't really trust public schools as much anymore when it come to religion. Before, you say it takes away from real world experience, no it doesn't. Not until they get rid of the idea of political correctness and go back to the original public school system, than there is very little real world experience. The school if you look at it takes a fearful approach when it comes to religion. They don't want to get their feet wet because they fear the water will turn into blood, so to speak. It's almost to the point that organized religion is hated anymore. The kids take this action and think that no religion is actually right. This takes away from the American dream," freedom of religion," which is what our country is founded upon.
I'd prefer it if we didn't have religious or private schools. The kids need to experience the different cultures we have within this wonderful country or their country. The kids need to experience religion. It's not a question. They need to realize that people act, believe, and are different from them. This world is a fearful world because we don't do this.. They don't understand and because they don't understand it they fear it because it's different. It's human nature. They need to experience this so they can realize the idea of faith. It's faith not religion that drives us. I have faith that I have a family that loves me to wake up to. I have faith that have a job. It may not be the best job, but at least I have one. I have faith that there is a loving and almighty God above who will always be there for me in both good times and bad. I also belief that there are people who believe differently. I accept it and respect it. Why? Not because I'm American (although it does help), but because it's life.
I apologize if I'm preaching a little. But, I can't help it. I love this country and understand what it means to be American. Well, as much as a 20 year old can anyway. Oh by the way. I had a Goth friend once and I accepted our differences. We were actually pretty close. This was before I even thought of becoming a Youth Pastor. Still, a Christian and a Goth in the same room getting along? I still don't understand how we got along, but we did.