BIBLE-READING IN SCHOOLS.

Hastings Standard, Issue 25, 26 May 1896, Page 2

BIBLE-READING IN SCHOOLS.

[To the Editor.]

Sir, —While walking the streets on Saturday evening last, my attention was attracted by the stentorian yoice of the Rev l)r Hoskin, who was endeavouring to enlighten the people of Hastings 011 the subject of Biblereading in schools. Even on such a subject as this, it does seem strange that the name of the Premier of the Colony should be dragged out, and an attempt made to ridicule him. The tirade of abuse with which lie precluded his remarks by no means recommended the speaker to those willing to listen to the question from an impartial standpoint. He seemed to be imbued with the idea that because the Irish Text-book was not read in schools it must necessarily bo the fault of the Premier, while Dr Hoskin, who has rendered good service to the country on more than one occasion, must know that it would be more than the position of the Government is worth to make an alteration in our educational system without iirsfc appealing to the people 011 the question. It is indeed wonderful the howl that the clerical party are now making on the near approach of the general election. Our system of education has been tried for a number of years and it has proved a great success, besides which the privilege of using schools and reading the Bible to children after school hours is contained in a clause of the Act. Why is it then that the clerical party have not taken advantage of this provision, and show the colony that they are genuine in their desire to see an improvement in the upgrowing youth ? The general idea is to have the Text-book read in schools without comment, and as this book only contains selections from the Bible. I for one fail to see how any good could possibly result. The Bible has been read in our schools before, and 110 result was apparent, and it is quite certain that the people will not consent to return to a similar state of things unless they see some good reason for it. Uncharitable and uncalled for remarks about any section of the community will by 110 means assist the argument, and are in direct contrast to the teachings of Him whom the rev. gentleman wishes us to imitate. It is impossible for us all to see from the same standpoint, and therefore we should be considerate of the feelings of those who differ from us. Unless this matter is referred to a vote of the people, as was done in South Australia recently, there is very small hope of the present agitation accomplishing anything.—l am, .tc,, I )ENO?.IIN ATK (XALIST. Hastings, 25th May, 1896.