Evening star. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 1891-04-29

The Catholic School Question In the Unite
States Discussed.

The Catholic School Question In the United
States Discussed.
A correspondent Of the Associated Press in
Rome has just had an interview with a high
ecclesiastical parsonage who is in an excep-
tional position at the Vatican and is perfectly
acquainted with the papal views on the school
question in the United States.
1.-The educational question" he said sis one
of the most importan. and delicate questions
in the United States. It has provoked most
ardent discussion and been the source of many
divisions. 1t would, however. be very difficult
to pronounce definitely on all the various in
terests affected. In this. ~ in all ques-
summate discretion and prudence and mind
eminently inclined to conciliation are necessary.
Absolute and arbitrary solutions are not APP
plicable to such complex matters. What seem.
necessary here, from the Catholic point of
view. is moderation and not precipitation.
weakness or violence. The general course
to be pursued Is, moreover, quite
should have parochial schools in all parishes
where it is possible and where there is suf-
icient means to render them equal to the pub
lie schools. Where it is possible to do this
schools should be established in which the
catechism may be Taught, or the state should
catechism outside of the hours regularly ap-
pointed for the ordinary school subjects. az ID
done in Germany. One thing. however, ID
absolutely obligatory-that 10 to found nc
parochial schools unless they can be put on a
level with those OF the state. for it would
simply end in the children deserving them in
favor Of the state schools. At present, how
ever, Catholics in the United States cannot
rival the state schools, rs they have not suf.
ficient resources, The decree Of the holy Of.
a. = d.. -
these parochial schools must in every degree
be equal to those Of the state"
DO you believe that the demands Of Arch.
bishop Ireland will be acceded to by the states2'
Il cannot answer you positively on tina,
point. But one should always endeavor to OBJ.
tain whatever concessions are possible. Be
sides. the various states have shown themselves
very respectful toward Catholicism. They Dc
not appear inspired with . sectarian ideal
They are equitable, conciliatory and tolerant
Moreover, it is to to their interest to show
themselves courteous aud favorable TOWARD
Catholic demands. The United States have de
rived SO many benefits from religious peace
and their wise policy has brought such high 70
nown that they cannot depart from these prin
ciples. The states. as well as the Catholics
should give proof Of . desire for Cancellation
and Of broadness Of views. No chance Of 4
crisis should be permitted, for every crisi
would open a period Of misfortune and diff
ficulty. The holy zee has complete
confidence in the zeal, tact and prudence
of the Roman Catholic hierarchy In
Americs. 1t has, therefore, followed. the patti
Of prudence. loyalty and patriotism. May i
sorbing question Of nationality In the west, j
il necessary to start from the same principles
Of conduct. There should be much prudenc,
and wisdom and no violence. The holy sea
counsels conciliation and pacifcation. In an,
case time viii inevitably settle all such con
Afcfs After one 0enerntion ia mast divirion