关键词: 西方, 宗教, 宗教教育, 思想政治教育, 作用

Abstract: Religious Education in the Western countries is very brisk and exercise a certain functions of education of ideological politics.This essay analysesthe important roles religious education of Western countries played in moral nurturing and political control of their citizens,in fostering national spirit andsocial belief ,in mediating class relations and maintaining social stabilities,and in resolving mental problems and spiritual puzzles.It also suggests implications to the education of ideological politics in our country,so as to draw the attention and discussion of our educators.

Key words: western, religious , religious education, education of ideological politics, role