‘Britain priests ignorant of Yoga’, says a Roman Catholic priest

A Roman Catholic priest and principal of a school in the capital, ascribing the latest uproar in Britain after some British clergy called for a ban on yoga classes, said, the Christian priests in Britain are ignorant about yoga.

Father John Ferreira (57) is the principal of St Peter's College in Agra, one of India's oldest educational institutions.

Speaking to IANS in an interview, Ferreira said, “They know nothing about yoga. They should first study and experience the benefits of India’s ancient science before commenting.”

Ferreira conducts a half–hour yoga class at the school assembly attended by over 1,500 students, teachers and office assistants everyday.

“When I started these yoga exercises a month ago, there were natural reservations and opposition from students as well as parents. But I persisted. Now they all congratulate me because some have stopped suffering from colds and allergies while others are feeling more energetic,” says Ferreira, who dislikes students with stooping shoulders, obese or sickly postures.

“I want them to walk straight, with chest out, shoulders raised and head held high. At their age they should be a bundle of energy. Unfortunately, parents have no time for their kids and there is nobody around for guidance,” cited IANS.

Ferreira who is against the introduction of sex education in schools, said, schools need to focus on the body and mind of students, who should maintain a fine shape. He wishes yoga made basic and necessary for studying youths in the country.

Ferreira who claims Yoga healed him completely from his sickness till 1981, fervently appealed all schools in the country to make yoga compulsory.

Last month, priests at the Silver Street Baptist Church and St James' Church of England in Taunton, Somerset, had banned yoga classes for children by branding it as a "sham" and "un–Christian".