When students first enter the middle school program in the 6th grade, I find that neither they, nor the parents, understand that this is a core subject. I have had parents tell me that 'it's just religion', but very few. Also, generally, those same parents have changed their minds by the 2nd semester of 6th grade. In general, my students tell me that they like Religion more than their other classes. I find that the key to holding adolescents' interest is to make it a subject that they can identify with.
Adolescent students are very ego-centric.
If they don't see what something has to do with them, they are usually not interested. The students in my class participate in prayer services on a weekly basis. They take turns presenting this in groups. The students will pose a question that deals with the topic given, and how it relates to life. Next, they will pass a cross around the circle, and each student has a chance to share and respond.