LETTERS: Bunbury Mail readers debate the role of a modern school chaplain

I don’t think they do.

That’s why we have catholic/religious based schools.

If I wanted my child to have a religious-based education, I would send them to said religious school.

I had scripture jammed down my throat in a public school without choice as a child and didn’t feel the need for it at all.

Posted online by Ray Hastie. 

Mr Ray Hastie, my understanding of your recent letter to My Say, July 2, is that you may need to do more research and update your knowledge of the work chaplains in school do. 

I am a retired education assistant who has worked in several Bunbury schools, having been in contact with chaplains often. 

Religion is not preached to the students unless the students ask themselves with no prompting.

Chaplains are very good listeners which is a huge part of their job and such a benefit to many students especially teenagers whereby if both parents work there may be a lack of time for direct attention and focused listening. 

Education assistants as well as mentors make time for students who have this very important need.

So have no fear Mr Hastie that scripture will not be jammed down their throat and make an appointment to talk to a chaplain to have a happier knowledge of why chaplains are in schools these days. 

Denise, Bunbury.