BIBLE IN SCHOOLS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16819, 23 August 1922, Page 6

BIBLE IN SCHOOLS.

Another attempt is to he made to interfere with the education system of + he Dominion by striking out tho word ” secular ” from the description which at present fits it—“ free, secular and compulsory.” The Council of Christian Congregations approved of the platform adopted by a conference of churches at Wellington recently. The proposals made by the conference included the use of a text book containing passages cf Scripture and a selection of hymns; the text book to bo used by the teachers, with simple explanations; and that a conscience clause be allowed for teachers who are unwilling to give Scripture instruction, and for parents no+ desiring their children to attend such instruction. The proposals have a close relationsh.jp to others which have been made in the past, and they arc- not likely to convert the opposition to the movement. There is a strong feeling in this country that it is not the business of the State to teach religion, and the proposals of the Council are opposed to that sentiment, v The schools are open to tenqhers and children of any religion, anjd there is no i ecessity for a conscience clause which may require some of the staff and Tupffs to absent themselves. Conscience clauses are admirable in theory, but they are less admirable in practice. In spite of the assaults of the past. New Zealand has retained the free, secuJaT and compulsory 'deal. The refusal to contribute State funds to denominational schools is based on the sound reason that the State schools are open to teachers and children of all denominations without distinction. Once the secular principle i*. disturbed the reason disappears, and there will be an agitation for State aid to denominational schools. The new movement which will bo powerfully backed, will xequire to bo carefully -watched by supporters of the present system of State education.