THE MASTERTON SCHOOL.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XVI, Issue 4949, 12 February 1895, Page 3

THE MASTERTON SCHOOL.

Jl ELIG IOUS 1X STIiU CI JOX

At last night's meeting of the Masterton School Committee, a letter was received from the liev. A. C. Vorke, asking permission to give religious instruction in one of the class-rooms, either before or after school hours. The Chairman said a previous discussion had taken place on a request to give religious instruction during school hours, and on appealing lo the Board, the Committee had been told that such instruction must lie given before or after school hours, He saw no objection to the ropiest being granted, and would move in llial direction, the time, etc., lo be arranged with Mr Jackson. Mr Easthopc seconded the motion. He thought the request a reasonable one. MrPragnell said, that unless it was understood that the instruction would be entirely unsectarian, and that other Ministers had the same privilege, lie should oppose it. Mr Daniell said lie would have perfect confidence in the fiev. Mr l'orke, and thought the proviso made by Mr I'ragncll quite unnecessary. The Chairman said if other clergymen applied, doubtless the Committee would grant their request. Mr Easthope said that all that was necessary was to grant the permission asked. J t would be optional with the children to stay or not. He thought any restriction quite unnecessary. Mr Pragucll said if he stood alone, he stood unsectarian. He was quite prepared to admit Mr l'orke, hut lie did not want him lo come witli his catechism book!

'I lip Chairman said, as already pointed i out. it was entirely voluntary on the ( part of the scholars whether they attended or stayed away. Mr Daniell said he hoped it would go forth fully, that the Committee had every confidence in Mr l'orke as a moral teacher. He did not wish to in any way offer insult or stir up strife amongst the Churches. ! Mr Morris thought by granting Ihe 1 permission they would offend someone, as the Salvation Army, Presbyterians, Wesleyans and everybody else would want the same privilege, Mr Easthopc: "Avery good thing, loo!" Tlie motion was then put aud carried unanimously.