A new study of a Dutch religious education organisation (Verus) says that 40% of Christian schools are regularly visiting mosques.

The study was done after several parents complained about mosque visits for their children. Spokesman Robbert Jan de Vries of Verus, says that “it looked interesting to do research of how many schools still have a bond with the church and if they are visiting religious facilities of other religions”.

While 40% of Christians schools are visiting mosques, several refused to do so. Also a lot of parents don’t agree with their young children being forced to visit mosques for courses about Islam.

During mosque visits Christian children learn how to do Islamic prayers and other Islamic rituals. If parents protest, their children can do other assignments on Islam, like reading a book about it.

Chairwoman of Verus, Loes Ypma, doesn’t understand the commotion. According to her it is “something positive that children learn more about other religions”. She says:

“It helps to bring knowledge and understanding for other religions, something that is important within our multicultural society.”