Stx,—The division of conviction within the Church, which the Arch-
bishops have recognised in the superficially contradictory statement which Dr. Matthews deplores, is itself a large part of the Christian pacificists' dilemma. It is this separation in action from those with whom we have been in fellowship which causes our self-questionings. We believe that the essence of our pacificism.is=right, and the ultimate will of God for the world; but " we have this treasure in earthen vessels " —our way of living it and presenting it is imperfect and a hindrance to others. Yet surely the Christian non-pacificist is not without his own misgivings—and the Archbishops seem to leave room for this sense of human fallibility in their statement. Does Dr. Matthews believe that we see the issue at present in its final form, of clear-cut right and wrong, and that the Holy Spirit has no further vision of a greater truth for us—a truth which may include much that both sides now proclaim?
One thing, at least emerges: the vital need to preserve across all divisions, the fellowship of the Church. We shall need each other increasingly if we are to come to the truth.—Yours faithfully,
Woodstock, Parbrook, Billingshurst, Sussex. M. R. BIELBY.
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