Mandatory Prayers in Public Schools to Be Implemented, Says Prime Minister Gaston Browne
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that all public schools in Antigua and Barbuda will be required to hold mandatory prayers during morning assemblies starting this September. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting last Wednesday, reflecting the government’s belief in the importance of spiritual engagement in developing a well-rounded conscience.
Prime Minister Browne emphasized the role of religious practices in shaping the moral character of individuals, citing the decline in church attendance among young people as a contributing factor to the erosion of societal values. “One of the reasons why we, as adults, have reasonably well-developed consciences is because of that spiritual engagement—going to church and so on, the fear of God,” Browne said. He expressed concern that the decrease in church attendance means that young people are not being adequately reached by religious teachings.
To address this, Browne proposed that schools collaborate with local churches to incorporate short devotional sessions into their morning routines. “It doesn’t have to be anything extensive—probably a little 10-minute devotion,” he explained. Browne pointed out that even the Cabinet begins its sessions with a pastor leading a brief prayer, and he sees no reason why students, who are the future leaders of the country, should not be encouraged to do the same.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that some students may not follow the Christian faith but noted that the majority of the population does. “Ninety-nine percent of the school population are Christians who follow the Bible,” Browne stated, adding that participation in these prayers will be mandatory for all students in public schools.
He also urged private schools to adopt a similar practice, although he clarified that the government cannot impose this requirement on them. “We can’t dictate for private schools, but we’re leading by example,” he said.
Starting in September, school principals will be expected to ensure compliance with this new mandate, and those who refuse to participate may face disciplinary actions. The government believes that this initiative will serve as a countervailing force against negative influences, such as certain types of music, that impact young people today.
Prime Minister Browne concluded by reinforcing the importance of this measure, stating, “We think that prayers in the morning during the assembly are very important, and we have taken a decision to make it mandatory.”
The government anticipates the cooperation of school administrators in implementing this policy as part of their broader effort to instill religious principles in the nation’s youth.
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