Readers of The Irish Catholic on Facebook page have backed Bishop Phonsie Cullinan’s call for Catholic schools to ditch yoga in favour of more Catholic forms of prayer.
In a letter sent to Catholic schools in the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore, Bishop Cullinan warned the practice is “not of Christian origin”.
In a poll on The Irish Catholic Facebook page, readers were asked whether or not they agreed with the bishop’s stance. When the votes were counted, 67% of people said they agreed with what the bishop was saying. However, one in three – 33% – felt that the bishop was over-reacting to the presence of yoga and mindfulness in schools.
In his letter, Dr Cullinan reminded school staff that October is the “month of the Rosary”.
He encouraged teachers and school staff to pray, and to help children spend time with Christ, in adoration, or in quiet meditation in the classroom.