RELIGIOUS LIBERTY IN JAPAN.
By C. M. S.
Whatever may be said in criticism of the course of the Japanese Government in prohibiting religious instruction of any kind in any school in Japan, the measure was certainly an impartial one; for by it all religions are placed on an equal footing. We may criticize the right of the government to prohibit religious instruction in a private school supported by private contributions, but we can not discover in it any of that favoritism which exists in Church-and-State governments. Another indication of Japan's desire to be impartial in her dealings with religious questions is shown in the contemplated action described below, quoted from the daily press:— "Yokohama, December 16.—The bill for the regulation of religious organizations excites much comment because of its absolute fairness and impartiality. Christianity is no longer merely tolerated, but receives recognition. All religious property is exempt from taxation and religious teachers from conscription. The whole Buddhist sects show an unexpectedly liberal spirit, and are practically united in giving support to the measure." Truly, the time is ripe for real Christian missionary work in Japan; and where are the harvest bands? C. M. S.