From the Revd Jenny Francis
Sir, - Your report "Bible story 'could be lost'" (News, 14
February) sadly confirmed what many of us ancients suspected: that
a significant proportion of children and parents are ignorant of
the much-loved Bible stories with which we were brought up.
Your report referred to the Bible Society's new campaign, "Pass
It On", which encourages parents to read such Bible stories to
their children, clearlysomething to be encouraged. It did not
mention, however, the very successful Open the Book project, begun
in 1999 by parents who, recognising the same phenomenon, decided to
act.
It is now a national project that aims to "enable every child to
hear the story of the Bible at schoolin their primary years". It
relies on teams of volunteers from local churchesto present the
stories in an attractive and engaging way. Because of its clear
structure and inbuilt safeguards, it has been approved as an
acceptable form of worship for use in school assemblies, thus
helping head teachers to carry out their statutory duty.
Last September the trustees announced a new and welcome
partnership with the Bible Society, as their shared vision and
resources will bring mutual benefits.
"Open the Book" and "Pass It On" are imaginative and timely
initiatives that deserve the support and prayers of us all.
JENNY FRANCIS
East Forches, Alexandra Road
Crediton, Devon EX17 2DH
