I agree with you Joe that parents should not force their children into anything. However, I do believe that it is to be expected that parents would lovingly instruct them on belief systems and morals codes that they believe have helped them and will help their children in their own lives. For many that constitutes a religious framework.
Of course when the child is older he will have to determine whether he will continue along the road that his parents have taken him for himself. In line with biblical scriptures, the child will have his own free will and have to establish his own relationship with God, if that's what he wants to do.
Although a tradition I myself don't subscribe to, it is an important faith-related practice for Catholics.
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