HEARTFELT THANKSGIVING

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 16 August 1945, Page 2

HEARTFELT THANKSGIVING

NEW ZEALAND’S PART IN WAR TREMENDOUS PROBLEMS AHEAD The predominant feeling was one of heartfelt thanksgiving, said the Mayor in his address. Mr Neale said he would like to thank yesterday's large crowd for their response to the spirit of the function. It would not have been difficult to understand, if, only a few minutes after hearing the news, it had been impossible to subdue for a minute or two, the understandable emotions long pent up, but without the short prayer, the function would have lost its significance. He also thanked the bands and those organisations and individuals who were responsible for the decorated vehicles, the processions and bonfire last night. Obviously these things must come about by individual effort and those who gave their help in these directions, made a night which the children especially will remember.

‘‘This morning, we meet in somewhat different mood, for what is a thanksgiving service.” said the Mayor. "I am sure that behind all the natural outpouring of ehthusiasm. there lies in most of us, the deep-seated feeling of humble thanksgiving for our great deliverance from the horror that has stalked the world for six long and anxious years. That the end has come much earlier than even the most optimistic could have expected there can be little doubt. When we finished with Germany, the forces of the Allied nations, were turned against Japan in what those in authority expected to be a long and bitter struggle. In all the circumstances then, it would be strange indeed if there were not world-wide rejoicing at the sudden end of the conflict. “One is tempted to refer to the different phases of the war. to the days when the British people stood absolutely alone, to the parts played by our various Allies and to whom wt. owe so much, but such functions as these, where mos‘ of you are standing, must not be any longer than absolutely necessary and in any case at a time like this, words are almost inadequate to express one's inner feeling. “So far as New Zealand is concerned. although our part in the total mav be small, yet in proportion to our population. it compares more than favourably with the efforts of many other countries. You may remember that at 'he beginning of the war the then Prime Minister. Mr Savage, said: ‘Britain’s fight is our fight: where Britain goes we go.’ In saying that he spoke truly I for all the people of New Zealand and now that it is over we can honestly say we have lived up to that statement. “There are tremendous problems ahead of us and ahead of all the countries of the world. While primarily they will be dealt with by Govern

ments, each and everyone can help in some way. You may not think so and you may not recognise the opportunity when it comes, but it will be there. Peace does not mean slipping back into 1939. “Too many changes have been wrought for the world of 1945 to be the world of 1939. Too many good men have gone from it. too many have perished or suffered, too many homes and family circles have gaps that can never be forgotten. “This glorious day has not been reached without terrible loss of life nor without untold sacrifice, and in our joy let us not forget those who have made it possible for us who remain to try again to make a better world. Neither has it been reached without Divine help and guidance. May we prove worthy of the sacrifices made for us and of the great opportunity that has been bestowed on us."