NAZI LEADERS

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 66, Issue 48, 6 December 1945, Page 6

NAZI LEADERS

SOME TURN TO RELIGION DISCLOSURE BY CHAPLAINS (N.Z. Press Association —Copyright.) (Rec. 1.30 p.m.) LONDON, Dec. 5. Some of the Nazi leaders on trial at Nuremberg are turning to religion and others are wondering what will our children’s children think. This was disclosed by two American Army chaplains, attending the accused, says the correspondent of the Associated Press. The Roman Catholic prisoners, Seyss-Inquart, Von Papen and Frank attend mass whenever possible. The priest said: “Their unfailing topic of conversation is despair at the ruin into which Germany is falling. Several said: Our plan failed. Now what will be the destiny of Germany?’ The wives and children of these prisoners attended services even during Hitler’s regime.” The Lutheran pastor said that Hess excused himself from attending service, saying: “If I turn to religion now it will be thought I am doing so because I am frightened.” Hess refused to allow a New Testament to be left in his cell. Goering attended the first Protestant service in prison, but was upset because there was no organ, and declined to join in the Lord’s Prayer. He has not attended service since. Frick and Jodi said that they believed in God, but did not accept any organised religion. Stretcher, a baptised Catholic, refused even to talk with chaplains. Both chaplains use a field altar with a cross in the centre and candles at both ends. Guards stand in the room throughout the services.