Religion

Switzerland has been traditionally influenced by the Christian religion. The cantons are responsible for defining the relationship between religion and state. Most German-speaking cantons, including Canton Bern, recognize Christian religious organizations as public institutions (regional churches, Landeskirchen | églises nationales). In effect, the state grants the regional churches certain rights, such as collecting taxes from their members. In Canton Bern the regional churches are Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Christian Catholic. The Jewish communities of Bern and Biel received recognition under public law in 1997.

In addition to the publicly recognized religious institutions (national churches) there are many other religious communities in Canton Bern. The majority of Bern's residents belong to a Christian religious group. In the past years the number of Muslims has risen. Nearly a forth of the inhabitants do not affiliate themselves with any religion.

The Swiss constitution guarantees religious freedom. Everybody has a right to their religious beliefs as well as a right to express and pass on these beliefs. Nobody can be forced to join a religious group or participate in religious acts. Persons may gather to practice religious rituals and celebrations. Nobody may be discriminated against based on their religion or their beliefs.

Compulsory schooling is religiously neutral. This does not mean that religious issues cannot be a part of education. There are two kinds of religious education: the denominational religious education offered by the regional churches and the religious education offered by the school which is called "Ethics, Community". This subject discusses religious and ethical matters that are relevant to all people. Participation in the denominational religious education offered by the regional churches is optional. Some other religious communities offer religious education for children outside of school.