W.D.F.U. Supports Bible-Reading In Schools

Northern Advocate, 28 May 1938, Page 7

W.D.F.U. Supports Bible-Reading In Schools

[Special To “Northern Advocate"! PALMERSTON N.. This Day. Mrs J. C. Wickham. Wanganui, amidst applause, declared that it had become a national matter, and had aroused the women’s organisations throughout New Zealand, when referring to the intention of the Minister of Education to eliminate Bible reading in schools. At the inter-provincial conference cf 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. 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 the motion was seconded. Mrs Wickham added that it was the country children who would be badly affected by Ihe Minister’s proposal. She had been at a meeting recently, when those present spoke of the neglect the Bible reading in the country schools. “As a body of Christian women we must support the protest,” stated Mrs J. C. Jackson (Wairarapa b The motion was carried.