BIBLE READING IN SCHOOLS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 124, 28 May 1938, Page 14

BIBLE READING IN SCHOOLS.

Discussion at W.D.F.U. Conference. (By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) PALMERSTON N., this clay. "This ha 3 become a national matter and has aroused the women's organisations throughout New Zealand," declared Mrs. J. C. Wickham, Wangantii, amidst applause -when the intention of tlie Minister of Education to eliminate Bible leading in schools was mentioned at the interprovincial conference of the W.D.F.U. It was reported that the Minister had promised to stay his hand in order to give those interested an opportunity to express an opinion. If parents in any way failed to make protests, then they could hardly blame the Minister if the privilege was taken away. One delegate suggested that, as the matter was a controversial one, it could hardly be discussed by the union, but Mrs. Wickham was quickly on her feet in reply, declaring the problem a national one. "We will not be taking our part in the national welfare of the country if we let this go by," she said. "We should associate ourselves with the ministers of religion in their presentations to the Minister of Education." She moved accordingly, and Mrs. C. C. Jackson (Wairarapa) seconded the motion. Mrs. Wickham added that it was the country children who would be badly affected by the Minister's proposal. She had been at a meeting recently, when those present spoke of the neglect of Bible reading in the country schools. "As a body of Christian women we must support the protest," stated Mrs. Jackson. The motion was carried.