Over the Top With the Third Australian Division by G. P. Cuttriss
page 69 of 73 (94%)
page 69 of 73 (94%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
not lacking that from the date of enlistment they appreciably
realized the seriousness of the work to which they so willingly devoted themselves. As they get nearer to, and while they are at, the Front, they become more reverent and less disposed to frivolity. All church parades are voluntary, and the chaplains have no occasion to complain about poor attendances. The men crowd the buildings used for gospel meetings, and large numbers of them have publicly acknowledged their acceptance of the Christian faith. In proportion to the number of services conducted and the opportunities for attending them, more soldiers are present at religious meetings at the Front than civilians at home. In the ranks and amongst both N.C.O.'s and officers there are splendid Christian men. These men are a tower of strength to the chaplains, and their influence for good amongst their comrades is incalculable. It has been whispered that the war has completely shattered the foundations of Christianity; but from close observation I am inclined to the opinion that it has exposed the instability and inadequacy of human creeds, and will eventually accomplish what the Churches have so lamentably failed to do. The war is an indictment against divided Christendom. If Christians the world over had been united in 'the faith' and 'of one mind in the Lord,' this war would have been both impracticable and impossible. Men on active service have grown indifferent not to Christ and His Church, but to human creeds and _our_ brand of Christianity. Both have |
|