WAR NEUROSIS

Timaru Herald, Volume CLIV, Issue 22738, 12 November 1943, Page 4

WAR NEUROSIS

Church Aid in Combating It

(N.Z.P.A.) AUCKLAND, Nov. 11. The belief that the Church should play its part in assisting to combat war neurosis was expressed by Archdeacon Petrie, of Christchurch, when discussing a report on the subject at the Anglican General Synod. Archdeacon Petrie proposed that the question be referred to the Committee on Public and Social Affairs for discussion an 1 recommendation, and to the standing committees of the dioceses for whatever action was felt desirable. “It seems to me that the real work of the ministry is to deal with matters such as this,” Archdeacon Petrie said. “Medical men in Christchurch considered the Church had a part to play and the Returned Services’ Association had indicated that such assistance would be welcomed. Neurosis was a form of frustration and the committee which reported on the subject felt that the real trouble was the lack of a religious basis in life.” Archdeacon Young, cf Wellington, said that while the general body of the clergy should be prepared to assist with the problem as best they could, a number should undergo specialist training. The proposals were adopted.