Controversy Over ‘Christian-Only’ Rule for Preschool Teachers

As a child I grew up in Los Angeles on a multireligious block. I lived on Harvard Boulevard in the late ‘20s and ‘30s. Our next door neighbors were the Coogles--a very fine Presbyterian family. Some of my happiest years were spent in their home. After I was married, we remained friends.

When my youngest child became of nursery school age, I sent him to the Beverly Hills Presbyterian Nursery School because it had a reputation of being the best in Beverly Hills. I never had any reason to regret that decision.

Years passed and my grandchildren were enrolled in another Presbyterian nursery school, this time in Westwood. The reason was plain--it, too, was renowned as an educational center for preschool children.

I am and have been a member of Wilshire Boulevard Temple during all those years. That temple has long been noted for its work as a meeting place for interdenominational affairs. Our temple has had the use of the Immanuel Presbyterian Church during its High Holiday services for many years. Their minister has spoken in our temple and our rabbis have spoken in their church.

Now it is the year 1988, and in these days of violence and mistrust, is First Presbyterian Church going to take several steps backward and regress? Instead of continuing in friendship and religious harmony? We simply must join hands with our neighbors of every religious faith and belief--else all will be lost.

GERTRUDE HARTFIELD KLINE

Beverly Hills