At school Hannah is being encouraged to participate in a charitable endeavour organised by the Samaritan's Purse.
Last year we joined almost everyone else at the school and packed a shoe box with gifts for a needy child.
It seemed like a good idea. Children around the world who don't have a lot would receive a gift which would bring some joy and happiness Christmas time.
This year I was given reason to doubt the intention behind "Operation Christmas Child." You see the thing that is only understood when the literature is read thoroughly is that it's a method for converting children to Christianity.
I'm not comfortable with evangelical messages being tied to gifts. I think that help, support and gifts can be given with love but they should be free of any obligation and propaganda.
If you want to know more then here's an article by the Guardian. If you want an alternative that doesn't preach, then 21st Century child does the same but without the child having to buy into a 'foreign' religion.
The agreement I have with Hannah is that we'll wrap a present and take it into work where, every year, presents are collected and shared with those who have very little.
1 comment:
Well said Ann! And why do these headteachers only seem to be worried about offending Muslims? If an adult hears a voice in his head telling him he must believe in Genesis to Revelation, fair enough, but no need to pollute children with that nonsense.
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