Setting a good example
Dear Editor,
“Through Christ, our Lord and Saviour, Amen” — a phrase you would most likely hear in a church service or any Christian congregation.
But no, students of many government schools all across the country are made to utter these words at least twice a day regardless of their beliefs. Yes, government schools, schools which are not owned by any religious denomination. The prayers said at government schools and any other public institution should be inclusive. Ideally, it should only contain statements that any believer in God would say since belief in God is the common factor among most religions.
It should not call upon or invoke the name of figures or deities specific to one religion. We live in a plural society. Some fractions may constitute a larger percentage of the population than others. Nonetheless, we are guaranteed the same religious freedom under the Constitution.
Forcing people to say prayers that are clearly to one belief is a flagrant disregard of our core national values. It seems to me that, in the public schools, Christianity is the default religion. While on Christianity, once the euphoria around that most unusual broadcasting to the nation has died, Catholics and those of other faiths or none would do well to return to consider this drastic and historical step by Pope Benedict XVI. He is the first to resign in 600 years. Pope Benedict has decided that it is in the best interest of the church he leads and the millions who belong to it, for him to step down. This acknowledgement of personal frailty and willingness to consider the greater good are a rare example of humility and selflessness.
Pope Benedict’s resignation is a useful lesson to many in positions of power in all spheres of life.
Andrew King
abking020@gmail.com