CORRESPONDENCE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 451, 2 March 1909, Page 2

CORRESPONDENCE.

RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION IN SCHOOLS.

[TO THE EDITOR.]

Sir, —I was exceedingly surprised to see discussed in your paper a matter which is sub judice, and more so when that matter was taken up by the Chairman and Secretary of the School Committee. However, the application was made in all good faith, and to save all further discussion I have withdrawn my request, and leave the field open to any willing to apply. But that the children should not be further neglected I have proposed to open All Saints’ Church twice a week, Wednesdays and Fridays, at 5.45 a.m., where children may assemble before school for 20 minutes, and hear a portion of scripture read and explained. This instruction will commence on Wednesday, iolh inst. I may state there can be no fear of “sectarianism” being taught in the Anglican communion—first of all, it is historically impossible, as the Anglican Church is not a “sect,” —and secondly, we have enough wisdom to take the advice of St. Aidan, “to feed our children with the milk of less solid doctrine until, gradually nurtured on the word of God, they should have strength enough to digest the more perfect lessons.” In conclusion, I sincerely trust that the School Committee will grant permission to ministers of all religious bodies to enter the State school, and give instruction to the children, so that those who conscientiously object to attending All Saints’ Church twice in the week, may yet have the opportunity of obtaining religious knowledge in the State school. There is room for all, but no need for discussion —we have neglected our duties long enough to our little ones —as a nation we should rise up and demand religious instruction, and every facility should be given to those willing to work.—Yours etc., G, Y. Woodward.