Dear Editor,

	I am writing in response to the letter in the May 24th edition of the Spectator
which suggested teaching the Bible in schools would reduce vandalism in particular and
crime in general. I certainly agree people should have the chance to learn about
Christ and have the opportunity to learn from His example. The Commandments are, as
was pointed out, an excellent foundation for one's morals. Having said this, I
think teaching the Bible in our schools is both impractical and improper.

	Sadly, I'm afraid we have to face the issue of our schools already being
under staffed and over worked. Our local education system has had to drop classes,
such as advanced mathematics, due to underfunding. Adding a new Bible study course
would further strain the system. Also, if one is going to teach youth about the
Bible via our schools, would we not also face the challenge of teaching other
religious points of view? If the moral examples from Christ, why not the upstanding
teachings of Buddha? Were the schools to exclusively teach the Christian religion
I think many a follower of Mohammad or Buddha would take issue.

	I believe we should also ask ourselves the question, are schools the right
place to teach people about the Bible? After all, there are several churches in
Annapolis Royal which would be more than happy to teach all of us about the values
found in the Bible. For those of us who might find churches impersonal, many ministers
and missionaries in the area are happy to make house calls.

	Last, but not least, I oppose reintroducing the Bible into our schools
because I feel morals and values should be taught at home. Our school system already
serves the double purpose of providing an education and a babysitting service. What
right do we have to demand a stranger teach our children proper manners? By the time
a child reaches the age where he or she enters the school system they should already
have a firm grasp on Right and Wrong. Parents should take responsibility for their
childrens' values rather than demand someone else instill them.

Sincerely,
Jesse Smith