Methodist Synod On Vietnam War

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30839, 26 August 1965, Page 1

Methodist Synod On Vietnam War

The continuation of measures to bring about a negotiated settlement of the Vietnam war was recommended by the North Canterbury Methodist Synod last evening. Some representatives, however, criticised recent statements made by Methodist ministers.

The synod adopted a resolution, put forward by the Rev. Dr. M. A. McDowell urging the Government “to continue all measures being taken to bring the war to an end by negotiated settlement, lending its support in particular to the United Nations.” It also urged the Government to work for the political self-determination of the Vietnamese people, and lift their living standards by increasing economic aid from New Zealand.

The Synod viewed the war with grave concern, stated the resolution. “It deplores the great suffering and the loss of life of all peoples involved, as well as the destruction of the country’s resources and property. It views with alarm the atrocities and hatred which the war is engendering. “Synod further believes that there is no ultimate solution to this struggle along military lines, but only by way of negotiation, political freedom and improved living standards,” the resolution said.

Embarrassed There was much in the resolution which he did not support, said the Rev. J. B. Currie (Islington). “I think the Government must be getting a bit sick of being urged to do what it is already doing.” Over the last few months he had felt like dissociating himself from the views of “so-called representatives of the whole Methodist Church.” “I think some Methodists have been more than a little embarrassed when they read some of the statements by Methodist ministers, which read as if they are speaking for the Church as a whole," said the Rev. F. G. Glen (Shirley). He had found himself in embarrassing situations because of what had been said.

Theological Tacticians Theologians had been trying to teU tacticians how to run a war. “It has been most interesting,” he commented. “It is quite unrealistic to talk about negotiating if there is no willingness to do so,” said the Rev. J. K. Watson (Richmond), who moved an amendment supporting the sending of New Zealand

troops to Vietnam. This was lost when put .to the vote. Referring to “atrocities” in Vietnam, the Rev. J. D. Grocott (Ricearton) said: “We have the conscience of the Church at stake if we don’t tell the people of New Zealand that these things are shocking, and ought not to take place.” Dr. McDowell’s resolution was adopted by a considerable majority, and the Synod also adopted the report of the international affairs committee.

This included recommendations, to be presented to the national conference in Christchurch in November, that the Government be urged to recognise the People’s Republic of China and press for its admission to the United Nations; that Methodists should inform political candidates during next election year of their advocacy of increased overseas aid as a means of positive peacemaking; and that the Government be urged to make substantial voluntary contribution towards the cost of United Nations peace-keeping operations.