BIBLE IN SCHOOLS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18149, 7 May 1927, Page 2

BIBLE IN SCHOOLS.

To the Editor. Sir.—-I have just received a letter containing a voting paper and a stamped envelope enclosed, also informing me this voting paper has been approved by the Minister of Education and Education Boards. Now has it. Read conscience clause 1 and 2:—No. 1— Any person not wishing their children to attend these exercises to simply notify the head master. No. 2—Any teacher wishing exemption to notify their committee and other provisions will be made. Now sir, can you imagine any person, father, mother or guardian, going to a head master and saying "Please I object.” Fancj’- the teachers going to their committees and telling them they object. And the whole thing so nicely inserted “simply.” It is not so simple as it looks. To my mind it is the grossest piece of impudence ‘ever put before the people on paper; and those people who are agitating for the Bible in Schools preach our sacred rights. There is not much secrecy in the voting paper if filled in according to instructions. We are instructed to give our signature and address and that no comment must be made simply “Yes” or “No.” What right or authority have those who have got this agitation up to almost demand my name and address. However they will get it with your consent. Now sir. I have been connected with schools for many years. Our State schools are free and welcome all classes to receive that which fits them for every honourable position in life—education. Imagine all the Ministers who hold different view's on religious matters demanding fifteen minutes for four days a week. What time would there be for arithmetic, etc., or any other of the school syllabus. In conclusion sir, let me say this, that Sunday School is the proper place to teach religious matter and not too strong at that. People who have received these papers will carefully peruse them, make no mistake about the issues. Yes—or No. One vote one house, husband, wife or guardian, but what about the person who has got no children, or is not the guardian of one. They all can vote. The whole thing seems to be unthinkable and too absurd to place before an educated people.—l am. etc., S. McALISTER, Beckenham.