From Mrs Liz Brown
Sir, — Generally speaking, I count myself something of a Giles Fraser fan, but his column (Comment, 22 August) went some way towards weakening my enthusiasm. He seems to have fallen headlong for the myth that expecting anything like civilised behaviour from our children is inextricably linked with draconian methods of parenting and a subscription to the school of Mr Creakle.
In considering how children should behave in church, might I suggest that they should be taught to behave in that place in precisely the same way as they should behave in any other — with common courtesy? The essence of good manners is the understanding that other people are worthy of consideration, and the corresponding realisation that our actions can and do have an effect on others.
Next Sunday, I may feel inclined to attempt a cartwheel at the end of the Eucharistic Prayer. There may be some congregations in which some such physical demonstration of joy would not be misplaced. In my own parish, however, my exuberance (not to mention the likely subsequent intervention of the paramedics) would hinder the devotions of other worshippers.
That is the reason why I should not attempt what I have not attempted since primary school, and also the reason why the child in Dr Fraser’s congregation should be taught not to bang his or her toy car repeatedly on the pew in front.
If we are not prepared to educate our children in the ways of courtesy and respect for others, whether in church or elsewhere, we do them few favours — and even fewer to the society of which we hope they will eventually form a constructive part.
LIZ BROWN
21 Ferriby Road
Barton-on-Humber
N. Lincs DN18 5LE
|
back to Letters
previous story
|
next story 
back to top
.gif "Caris Magazine for girls aged 11 to 16 © site")
