The Work of Friends
at Verdun. . . William Harvey Talks on Reconstruction in France
On the evening of February 14, William B. Harvey briefly
stated a phase of Quakerism one application of which leads to the opposition to
war. As in the days of George Fox, all the official declarations of Friends now
state that all activities of life will be enriched to just that degree in which
it is lived in accordance with the spirit of Christ. The one conflict of
lasting import is between those whose way of life, depending on materialistic
religion, results in an un-Christian civilization, and those whose manner of
living ordered by faith in the potential power of Spiritual forces, shapes a
Christian social order.
Opposition to war, though one of the minor applications of
Quaker belief, has recently attracted much attention. This interest is partly
due to the fact that loyalty to Quaker principles at this period has two
important results.
In supporting the conscientious objectors, we have
established a status for Friends of future generations. Liberty of conscience,
freedom of worship and freedom of speech have been obtained. This in itself is
a work which has upheld the very essentials of democracy.
Secondly, the Friends have upheld a great ideal. Had Quakers
surrendered because of the pressure of public opinion, the outlook would indeed
be dark. As the cause of slavery and prohibition would never have triumphed
unless an unpopular minority had held to the ideal when the world was not ready
for it,” so faith that life will be swayed by love and generosity will never
sway the masses, unless the Quaker minority hold fast to their ideals.
Having emphasized the fact that loyalty to our spiritual
ideals is the greatest service Friends can render, William Harvey spoke briefly
of the new opportunities for work in France.
During their stay in France our Quaker boys have worked with
the civilian population. Hundreds of families were assisted during the periods
of evacuation. Household furniture, cripples, and babies were saved at such
times.
Much has been done in medical work. Maternity hospitals have
been maintained; 600 little children are cared for in one place. In one
hospital are 500 insane and crippled. Dr. Babbit has performed 1,000 surgical
operations.
In building and in agriculture the unit has done much. 200
portable houses have been built. 1,000 tons of grain have been threshed.
Machines have been reclaimed from junk heaps, 180 mowing machines, as well as
many ploughs, have been used much by our boys.
In the future greater opportunities will be ours. To reclaim
the land near Verdun, to rebuild 41 villages, and to care for 2,500 families
for whose maintenance $750,000 will be needed—these are some of our
opportunities.
For these calls we must dedicate anew our young men and our
financial resources. Now when sacrifice is commonplace, we would be failures
indeed if our religious principles do not drive us to this material expression
of good will.
No comments:
Post a Comment