BIBLE-IN-SCHOOLS.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 525, 11 December 1912, Page 6

BIBLE-IN-SCHOOLS.

On Sunday the churches that have joined the Bible in State Schools League began their active campaign in Te Kuiti, and asked all those in favour of the restoration of religions teaching to sign the cards. On the3B cards the object of the league is shortly set forth. The system of religious instruction in State schools prevailing in' Australia —1. Lessons read in school hours, by the children themselves from Scripture books provided by the Education department, State school teachers supervising the reading, but not giving sectarian or dogmatic teaching. 2. Visits during school hours by ministers or accredited teachers from the chruchss instructing children in the faith of their fatners. 3. Conscience clause by which the parent has complete control of the child's religious'instruction in public schools. This system has existed in New South Wales since 1866, in Tasmania since 1868, in Western Australia 1903, in Norfolk Island since 1910. _lt is proved by overwhelming testimony from Ministers of Education, UnderSecretaries, and uther permanent heads of the educational departments, inspectors, State school teachers, and the churches, all practically, all save one, that this system works smoothly without sectarian strife and gives such satisfaction to the vast majority that the national system of education cannot be disturbed. But on the other side comes the important part. The statement "I am in favour of the system of religious instruction in State schools described on the other side, and request a referendum to be taken thereon," which is is signed by voters. These cards were signed by a large proportion of church goers on Sunday, others taking away literature or cards while they consider the matter. It has already been ascertained that an even larger proportion of those living out in the country are in favour of the movement. And perhaps the most hopeful sign of all is that besides the approval of Australian educational experts there are State school teachers in New Zealand championing the cause. And nothing could be more outspoken or favourable than an address given for the cause by Mr George Flux, head teacher of the South Wellington State school. And many teachers are signing the league's cards. The name on each card will be ticked off cn the electoral roll. Each church is now keeping its own roll, but from time to time the branches of the committee will meet, and all names be marked on one roll, so the strength in favour of the movement will be ascertained. The local branch has much cause to be gratified by the support it has already received.