One is now ready to inquire, "Wherein does our splendid system of public education differ from that provided by the various Protestant denominations, in their mission schools, academies, colleges and universities?"
Both are essential to the well-being of the state. They are two strong pillars that, supplementing and standing near each other, support the power and promote the material prosperity of the state. Their mutual relation is aptly expressed, by the sentiment of the two brothers on the shield of Kentucky, "United we stand, divided we fall." They look so nearly alike in buildings and equipment, the passing observer sees little or no difference in their outward appearance.
Nevertheless there is often a difference in their objects and products, which has already been noted, and in the means employed to accomplish these objects. This difference is fundamental. It is found in the law of their establishment.
In the admirable system of public education in the state of Iowa, which is second to none in the land for the goodness and greatness of its beneficent results, there is found the following statute, and it is a fair illustration of similar statutes in other states.
"The Bible shall not be excluded from any public school or institution in this state, nor shall any pupil be required to read it contrary to the wishes of his parents or guardian." Sec. 1764.
This statute takes it for granted the Bible is in the schools, and that is excellent; it has also a concession and the latter often prevails. Many Jews read only the old Testament, and many Catholics out of regard for the pope, a foreign potentate, think they ought not to read any part of the Bible. The state is a secular power and the result, of this concession to religious freedom, is, that the Bible and the Christian teacher, in many localities, are not regarded as essential features of its educational work.
This leaves the moral character and relative value of our public schools, to a considerable extent, to the caprice of those who are in the majority or authority, as directors and teachers in any particular community. In christian communities they are invariably found exerting a christian influence.
The Bible and the christian teacher are essential for the accomplishment of the greatest good. These are seldom separated, and when they are found together in the public school, it becomes a fountain of elevating christian influences. This privilege is enjoyed by many of our communities, where the supply of christian teachers is equal to the demand.
This discussion of the public school has been included here, for the general knowledge of christian families among the colored people. Since the enactment of laws, limiting the teachers in the public schools of the colored people, to those of the "colored persuasion," there is now and will continue to be, an ever increasing demand for capable christian teachers. Christian teachers come from christian homes and christian schools.