LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Chronicle (Levin), 14 August 1946, Page 4

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

ANZAC DAY SERVICES Sir, — "Returned Soldier's" letter in Monday's "Chronicle" is to be commended. In connection with this matter, the following quotations taken from the first leaf of the New Testament issued to the men of the armed forces, both British and American, are worthy of consideration : — A message from His Majesty the King: "To all serving in my forces by sea, or land, or in the air, and indeed to all my people engaged in the defence of the Realm, I commend the reading of this Book. For cenruries the Bioie has been a wholesome and strengthening influence in our national life, and it behoves us in these momentous days to turn with renewed faith to this Divine source of comfort and inspiration." Franklin D. Roosevelt writes: "As Commander-in-Chief, I take pleasure in commending the reading of the Bible to all who serve in the armed forces of the United States. Throughout the centuries men of many faiths and diverse origins have found in the Sacred Book words of wisdom, counsel and inspiration. It is a fountain of strengch, and now, as aiways, an aid in attaining the highest aspiracions of the human soul." In the light of _the above it is inaeed amazxng that the elimination of the Book of books should have been even suggested. During the World Wars millions of copies of the Scriptures were distributed to the men of the forces, and multitudes of them received help and comfort in perusing the inspired wfitings. It is to be hoped, therefore, that the returned soldiers everywhere. whatever their creed or belief, will solidly refuse to permit the banning of the Bible from the Anzac services. Let the men of the Levin R.S.A. take the initiative and show the way. Yours etc., J. S. MOIR. Levin, Aug. 13.