I THANK Eric Gendle for taking time to respond (HAS, Dec 15) to my letter concerning The Golden Compass (HAS, Dec 10). He is correct in suggesting that I advocate that children should not see this film. However, some points in his letter I do not agree with.
The Jesuits' claim - "Give us a child until he is seven and we have him for life" - is certainly not acceptable to me. On the contrary, I think it is appalling.
Like Mr Gendle, I am in favour of children having some feel for the beliefs of others, as he puts it, so they are able to make up their own minds when it comes to faiths and beliefs.
This does not prevent me, as a Christian, from voicing my concern about a story which, in the author's own words, was written to kill God in the minds of children.
The reason for my letter was not to advocate denying children knowledge of the existence of other beliefs, as Mr Gendle puts it, but, as many parents may not be aware of Philip Pullman's agenda, I was merely giving a warning. Readers must now decide for themselves whether or not to see the film.
Miss EA Moralee, Billingham.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article