MORAL REARMAMENT

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23687, 20 December 1938, Page 5

MORAL REARMAMENT

Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands has addressed a personal message to her people in support of an appeal for " moral and spiritual rearmament." The queen's message says: "Now that for the time being the danger has been averted of that total ruin which seemed to threaten our civilisation during those anxious days when we were brought face to face with imminent disaster, it is an inspiring thought to feel us all filled with one desire to safeguard the blessing-of peace. This longing for peace binds all the nations together, and yet,, as .a mere longing, even when coupled with our defences, it is -not enough. Peace will- only be lasting if supported by the idea underlying the appeal for moral and spiritual rearmament. We can all contribute personally to the growth and development of this idea by co-operating wholeheartedly in moral and spiritual rearmament, and by responding to that inmost urge, resulting in changed behaviour, so that honesty, confidence, and love may become the guiding principles in the relations between individuals and nations, I need not assure you that the deeper our conviction and the more its manifestation in our attitude toward life influences our own circle and extends beyond it, the greater will be the chance of ensuring a 'better future. Whoever understands the signs of our times knows that what is at present required of us is an act of confidence, of self-sacrifice, and moral courage, and of faith."