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Table of Contents |
Book of Discipline of the
Ohio Valley Religious Society of Friends, 1978
Educational Relations |
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Friends in the American Colonies The Second Period of Quakerism Some Twentieth Century Developments History of Ohio Valley Yearly Meeting Personal Life and Family Relations |
The purpose of education is to build character and to make the individual a more serviceable instrument in bringing about the kingdom of God. While inspiration, often the stimulus for this effort, is the direct gift of God to the human soul and not a product of education, yet God's revelations are more likely to be perceived and can be used to better advantage if the body has been trained for health, the hand for work, the mind for thought, and if the attention has been directed toward spiritual truth. Powers of observation, thought and expression need training that we may do our work well. Many of us require teaching to over come a prejudiced and unreasoning attitude toward others and to meet humanity with the reverence that is due the children of one loving Spirit. Education of Children We regard the educational process as primarily the development of character through the acquisition of knowledge and skills, the training of the mind to think, and the growth of the individual's capacities for appreciation, social fellowship and worship. The first and most important education of the individual is received in the home circle. Later, the home and the school should work in close conjunction to perfect the work of education. Public Education School education is now primarily a public function to be carried on by the state for the benefit of all children. Friends historically were among the earlier advocates of universal free public education. We urge our members to continue to use their influence as citizens to elevate the standards of our public schools. Friends' Schools Besides giving support to the public school system, Friends may make an important contribution to education by maintaining schools and colleges in which their ideals are especially exemplified. Such schools should be leaders in the field of education. The best schools render conspicuous service to our Society and to the pupils whom they train. It is desirable for our children to receive at least a part of their education in Friends' schools. During their formative years, the ideals and interests and association of Friends should be a part of their education. Religious Education The special field of religious education is to help establish right relationships with God, to build right attitudes, and to influence right conduct. It should lead to a way of living. Schools and colleges conducted by Friends are urged to offer special courses in the Bible and other religious literature, and in the religious interpretation of life. Emphasis should be given to the religious aspects of science, history, literature and art. The foundations thus laid should lead to a life-long realization of the rich gifts of the spirit. Each meeting should provide through First-day schools or otherwise for adequate study of religious ideals and history, including the history and principles of the Society of Friends. Teachers should suitably prepare themselves for this important work. Monthly Meeting Support Meetings are advised to make an annual survey to show how the children of each monthly meeting are being educated. Meetings should exercise care that all children among their members have adequate opportunity for education. When necessary, meetings should provide funds for this purpose. |