PACIFISTS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22191, 19 August 1935, Page 12

PACIFISTS

Sir, —The present crislii puts the League on its mettle, and while the case of Italy and Abyssinia is sub judice it is unjust and disloyal to prejudice the League and its heroic efforts for peace by saying the League is ineffective and war is certain to come. No matter how dark the prospect, we must hope and pray and work for the best and the success of the league. " To avert the threatened war " prayer is most effective. In answer to prayer other and very practical means will he given. These also must be carried out. But what they will be it is impossible to tell in advance exactly. This is wise, for we cannot put all our cards on the table in dealing with those who show had faith and ill will. Personal peace is a prime requisite. This is to be had by faith in God. World peace is to be had only in the same way. J. G. Hvghes. Sir, —After being informed what pacifists would do to av'?rt war, Mr. J. Thornes inquires how they are going to do it. My reply is, by propaganda and legislation. As previously stated, the world's statesmen should convene a conference with a view to the establishment of a world Parliament, and to work out the details and methods of procedure, the objective being the government of this planet in accordance with the principles of justice and equity. The result would be the acid test of their (statesmanship. The Churches throughout Christendom should unitedly denounce war. The pulpits should ring daily with passionate protests against war, the causes of war, and the huge and criminal expenditure upon armaments, while millions of people are on the verge of starvation. Let the sports-loving people abandon their spirts to attend to this momctfitoiis business, and battle for freedom and justice until the world is made a fit place for :sane people to inhabit. There will then be time for sports. Observer.