PRESIDENTS MESSAGE

White Ribbon, Volume 17, Issue 4, 18 May 1945, Page 3

PRESIDENTS MESSAGE

My Dear Friends, As I write 1 am listening for the sound of I’cace Bells. How great is the longing in millions of hearts to hear that joyful peal. Whilst waiting we remember with heartfelt sympathy •hose whose loved sons will not return; and yet for them there is the remembrance that but ior the gallant servicemen who faithfully stood in the breach there would not be the peal of peace bells. When we remember the early days of the war, with Hitler "iriding over Europe, and compare those days with these, we humbly thank God for the men who endured, who fought and who died to free nations from tyranny. May we, who have been freed from the tragedy of war be worthy of the sacrifice that has been made at such tremendous cost. We have something to do to make our country worthy. Until strong drink is turned »ut root and crop our country is not worthy of what has been done tor us. As long as we sell poison to destroy intellect, physical and spiritual vigour, we are not prepared for the home-coming of our war veterans. May the I’eace Bells be a call to us to re-dedicate ourselves to our part of the defence of our land. The ancient, hut powerful enemy, camouflaged as a friend, must be routed, and in the strength of our God we go forth to battle against this foe.

There have been several enquiries regarding a resolution passed at Convention concerning Conscientious Objectors. The resolution did not ask for their release, as is suggested by an article in "Truth.” All that the resolution asked was that our law be brought into line with the English law where there is an Appeal Tribunal for C.O.’s.

1 would urge every officer to secure a Handbook front Mrs. Mitchell, Correspondence Secretary. They will be ready very shortly now, and orders should reach Bn. Mitchell this month if possible. The Handbook will contain every resolution passed at Convention and Unions should study them and endorse them after study.

We urged Unions to take up Children's work as part of a supreme effort to educate for total abstinence. Please read the Presidential address at your meetings, and act.

There is a department of our Union which may be used by every local Union. I refer to the Home Meeting Department. Through this avenue we reach mothers of children, and build •in a solid foundation. When the home is right the children will follow right and will build well for the future. ‘Tree us, O Lord from selfish aim, And Thine own Spirit give, That we may glorify Thy Name, While on Thine earth we live.

So hence shall flow fresh strength and grace, As from a full-fed spring; To make this world a better place, And life a worthier thing.” Yours for God, Home and Humanity, JESSIE HIETT.