APPOINTMENT OF CHAPLAINS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 16034, 28 September 1915, Page 4

APPOINTMENT OF CHAPLAINS.

Sir, — take great exception to the attitude taken up by the Rev. E. C. Budd in Wednesday's Herald re the appointment of an additional Salvation Army chaplain to the military forces. The phrase, " the so-called Salvation Army," is an unjustified, slur on an organisation that has more than justified its existence. I spent twelve years as an officer in the Salvation Army, but have long since severed my connection with it because I could no longer subscribe to its doctrines, but of its sincerity and utility I can fully testify. Numerically, it is a small organisation, but probably its chaplains are so successful that the military authorities feel justified in appointing more of them. How different is the tone of Mr. Budd's letter from the Scriptural injunction, " in honour preferring one another." Papatoetoe. W. P. Renah.

Sir,—ln the Herald of September 22 the Rev. E. C. Budd appears to speak rather disparagingly of the fact that Salvation Army officers are being appointed as chaplains to our military forces. He refers to that noble band of men and women as "the ' so-called Salvation Army," but he appears to know little of the great work being done by them. Perhaps a few facts, if given, may be helpful to him. The " so-called Salvation Army" has provided no fewer than 15 motor ambulances, completely fitted up by the Army for the front, and manned by certificated Salvationists. Many thousand Salvationists are at the moment fighting for King' and country. Over 3000 bandsmen alone are in the ranks and among ihese are many Salvationists from this Dominion. The refugees from Belgium, now cared for by the same " socalled Salvation Army," number many thousands. What more would your correspondent want Deep into their own pockets have these " so-called Salvationists " gone to help to assist the various patriotic funds, and outside their ranks men and women, who know something of their devotion ©ay " God bless th« army!" F.J.W. ;