Romanian Patriarch Daniel has urged families, schools and parishes to give special attention to the spiritual education of children and young people during the new academic year.

He made the appeal in a message marking the beginning of the 2026–2027 school year.

“Children and youth are a gift from God to the family, the Church and the nation,” Patriarch Daniel said.

According to the patriarch, the Christian faith is passed on within the family primarily through prayer, as an expression of love for God, and through good works, as an expression of love for one’s neighbors. The purpose of this education, he said, is to help children become not only responsible citizens of their country but also, in the Church’s understanding, “citizens of the Heavenly Homeland.”

Patriarch Daniel also highlighted the role of religious education in schools. He said the subject contributes to the formation of young people’s character, introduces students to spiritual and cultural values, and helps them develop the foundations of practical morality.

Religious education, he added, should focus not only on acquiring knowledge but also on developing skills, conduct, attitudes toward others and a system of values.

The patriarch further called for continued cooperation between parishes and schools. The Romanian Orthodox Church intends to support children from low-income families by providing school backpacks, stationery and clothing.

The new school year in Romania will begin on September 7. At the conclusion of his message, Patriarch Daniel wished students, parents and teachers health, peace, joy and God’s help.