Signs of the Times

Restoration to Hitler’s Victims

After the close of the last world war, a program was instituted in West Ger­many for monetary compensation to vic­tims and their survivors of the terrible Hitler purge against the Jews. It was first commenced by the occupying powers of the United States, Britain and France —but since 1949, by West Germany it­self. Since that time, almost $5 billion has been given to individuals, most of whom were Jews as a compensation for the loss of lives and property during the war. The money goes to Jews scattered all over the free world, victims of Adolph Hitler and to former German Jews now residing in Israel. In addition to this, in excess of $1 billion has been given to agencies and governments who have aided the Jews.

This program is unique in the modern world, inasmuch as the people of West Germany have voluntarily continued the work. Before the “conscience” debt is finished, more than $10 billion will have been paid to the victims of Nazism. The state of Israel to date has received $750 million in goods. This has meant the payment of 60 German built ships, five power stations, the modernization of Is­rael’s railway system, repair work at Is­rael’s port of Haifa, water pipes laid in the Negev Desert for irrigation, equipment for a copper mine, tractors, pumps and other machinery, and $190 million worth of oil. In addition to this cash outlay direct to the state of Israel, prop­erty restoration, impossible to estimate, has been made. Art work, real estate and many other forms of valuable property has been restored as the Germans have sought to ease their conscience for the inhuman acts their predecessors have com­mitted against the Jews. If no heirs can be found, the proceeds from sale or liq­uidation of property has been paid to the Jewish Agency in Israel. As can well be imagined, such a large scale program requires a correspondingly large person­nel under the West German government. Presently, there are 10,000 government employees busy in the immense task.

When Hitler first started his plan to exterminate the Jew, there were 2.5 mil­lion classified as Jews living in Germany. By the close of the war, but 5,000 re­mained. Since then, large numbers of mained Since then large numbers of Jews returned to West Germany, rela­tively few of which chose to remain Today, there are about 30,000 Jews in West Germany, less than half of which are German-born In order to compen­sate those Jews who did not escape to West Germany in time to meet the 1953 deadline, set by the restitution law, the Government last June provided an emergency fund of $200 million for their aid

A Step in the Right Direction

That the hand of God is behind this restitution plan is beyond all doubt The pre-adventual colonization of Palestine by the Descendants of Jacob is but a step toward true restoration that will take place under the direction of the Lord Jesus Christ What is happening in Pales­tine today, is but a foretaste of that which will take place when Israel is truly restored under the greater David—re-stored, not only physically, but morally also The ‘conscience fund” set up in West Germany is a type of that which will be inaugurated by the Messiah on a world-wide basis The Lord through His servant Isaiah clearly foretells the wealth that shall flow to the inhabitants of Palestine in the wonderful age to come. Arise and shine, for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. And the Gentiles
shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. Surely the isles shall wait for me, and the ships of Tarshish first, to bring thy sons from far, Their silver and their gold with them, unto the name of the Lord thy God, and to the Holy One of Israel, because He hath glorified thee. And the sons of strangers shall build up thy walls, and Their kings shall minister unto thee:: for in my wrath I smote thee, but in my favour have I had mercy on thee. There­fore thy gates shall be opened continu­ally; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the Forces (Wealth) of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought.” (Isa. 60:1, 3, 9-11) Zechariah is equal­ly emphatic in his prophecy of the king­dom age. After foretelling the punish­ment that will fall upon those nations which have come up against Jerusalem, the prophet then describes the reign of Christ that will ensue: “And Judah also shall fight at Jerusalem; And the wealth of all the heathen round about shall be gathered to­gether, gold, and silver, and apparel, in peat abundance.” (14:14).

It has been 16 years since the tiny state of Israel declared its existence to the world. To the people of God the success which the handful of Jews experienced at that time in the face of overwhelming odds stands as the 20th century miracle. A miracle, indeed—for the powers that aided Israel in the occupation of Pales­tine were not of men—but in spite of them. To the student of prophecy, only the guiding hand of God, in the ful­fillment of His purpose, could have caused the Jews to successfully resist the hostile Arabs that surrounded her. The words of Jesus echo in our ears as we survey the uplifting fulfillment of Divine prophecy: “Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; when they shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that sum­mer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see These things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. (Luke 21:29-31) The generation that was to witness this momentous event was not to pass away, till all be fulfilled.” (vs. 32) If we understand the words of Jesus correctly, that the generation referred to is a defi­nite period of time in which the shoot­ing forth of the fig tree nation was to take place, we may reliably conclude that it is entirely possible that the King­dom of God will indeed be here within a few years. How long is a generation? Some have thought that 30 or 40 years is the approximate time involved — others, that 100 years embraces three generations. According to the genealogy given in the first chapter of Matthew, there were 42 generations in all from Abraham to Christ. This period of time is about 2000 years, which gives us an average of 48 years for each generation. This period is computed from the birth of Abraham. If we should figure it from the birth of Isaac, the total time would be 1900 years or about 45 years per generation. In any event, we are now 16 years into that period, which, said Jesus would not pass away till “all be fulfilled”. Of that day and hour, knoweth no man, for the Master did not state at what time in that generation the kingdom of God would appear—in the first half, in the middle or at the expiration. Sufficient for us to know and realize that the days are growing shorter, and many of us who have witnessed the birth of Israel will in all likelihood be alive at the com­ing of Jesus.

Guilty or Not Guilty?

When the next Vatican council con­venes, Catholics all over the world look for and hope for a declaration of the Church’s relationship to Judiasm. In the session held last fall a draft was origi­nated by Augustin Cardinal Bea of Rome’s Secretariat for Promoting Chris­tian Unity which declared that guilt for the death of Jesus was borne by all man­kind. The church was encouraged not to use catechisms and sermons to imply that the Jews were guilty of decide. Be­cause of stiff opposition from Catholic bishops from the Middle East, who, like their Moslem neighbors, have bitter anti-Israel feelings, the draft was weakened to such an extent that it appalled Jewish leaders who later read it. A large num­ber of influential Catholic prelates are readying for a strong battle to change the pronouncement to its original form, or something similar, that would not be offensive to Jews.

The Divine Verdict

Here is another instance of the “in­fallible” church having to revise its pol­icy in a very important and basic prin­ciple after 16 centuries. The issue is actually quite clear and easily stated. It is only made complex by the pressure of politics, and the desire of the Church of Rome to gain all backers it can muster in these latter times. Though it is true that both Gentile and Jew were and are under the condemnation of sin, a fact that made necessary the sacrificial death of Jesus, it was the leaders of the Jews that brought Jesus before the judiciary courts of Rome and insisted on his death. The fact that Christ had been delivered “by the determinate counsel and fore­knowledge of God” does not alter the fact that those involved in his betrayal and death are guilty. This was quite clear to Peter who accused the Jews; “There­fore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, Whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.” (Acts 2:36) The fact that their involvement in His death was in fulfillment of God’s scheme of redemption, no more exonerates them from guilt, than did Judas Iscariot’s part as betrayer, “that the Scripture might be fulfilled”, free him from guilt for his part. The terrible judgments of God that came upon the Jews dwelling at Jerusalem after the death of Christ resulted, not only because Israel had “killed the pro­phets and stoned them” whom God had sent to the nation, but also, and more particularly because they did not reverence His son. “This is the heir”, they cried; “come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.” (Matt. 21:38)

The very condition of the Jews for the past nineteen centuries testify to the righteousness of God. The death of Christ and the persecution of the apostles and followers of Christ in the first century was the filling of their cup of iniquity. Their subsequent disbursement among the nations of the world, and the bitter hatred and persecution that followed them testify to the severity of their crime in the eyes of God. Their condition of disbursement was to remain until the time of the end. As mentioned before, the present occupancy of Palestine is merely a step in the direction of restoration, the full consummation of which must await the coming of the glorified Messiah, who will “come to Sion, and un­to them that turn from transgression in Jacob.” (Isa. 59:20).

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killeth the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children to­gether, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, ye shall not see me henceforth till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” (Matt. 23:37-39).

A change of Power

It has been a half a century since the beginning of the first world war, when on August 1, 1914, Germany declared war on Russia The world of 1914 bears little resemblance to the world of today, and very few even dreamed of the fantas­tic changes that would come about in Just 50 years The leading world empire then was Great Britain at the head of the im­perial powers of France, the Netherlands, Germany, Turkey, Belgium and Italy The United States was then a minor world power, comprised of some 99 million people, living mostly in farms and small towns, depending on the financial czars of Europe for support of their business ventures Since then the United States has twice saved Britain and France from the ambitious war lords of Germany Japan has been on both sides of the fence in two wars, and today is aligned with the west against the Communist bloc A League of Nations has come and gone A United Nations has also been born but has been Just about as ineffective in achieving its aims and purposes as its predecessor The empires of the old world are gone, and in their place in Europe are many nations attempting to form a common market and develop an over all political cooperative Paradoxical­ly, England has experienced her power and world influence wane, while Ger­many, twice defeated in war is now the strongest power on the continent of Europe.

The recognized greatest miracle of the past five decades is the development of the United States into the most powerful military giant of the age, possessing strength that few of her patriots ever en­visioned The balanced national debt of $1 2 billion has grown to a figure in ex­cess of $3 billion.

In Russia, Communism was only an idea, promulgated by a few in a weak and backward nation The Red revolu­tion brought Communism to power, and during the Stalin era of the 1930s brought terrible purges and persecution to the people of Russia The end of World War II found many European na­tions enslaved in the Communist camps Today, Khrushchev rules a far more powerful and threatening nation than any of the czars before him

Sino-Soviet Split

Red China under the dominion of Communism is no longer a primative land divided and ruled by warlords The emergence of China as a mighty Commu­nist power has astounded even Russia The Sino-Soviet treaty of 1950 was ori­ginated as a bulwark against interven­tion from the West However, in the past seven years deep and lasting damage has been done between the two powers, as they clashed in serious ideological dis­putes This split in the Red bloc is seen as the most significant development since the close of World War II The differ­ences have evolved into an unmasked cold war, surpassing in bitterness even that between Russia and the United States

There seems to be little hope (or dan­ger) of a settlement taking place in the near future Moskow refuses to allow an independent Communist entity, though in league with her The dream of a huge Red monolith has been shattered Supremacy in the Communist world cannot be shared or distributed—either Moscow or Peiping must assume the role of boss Di Mose L Harvey, former State Department expert on Rus­sia, writing in U S News and World Re­port concerning the Russia China break, said The history of Communism prior to 1918 was taken up with incessant factional controversy and conflict Diversity was nearly as great in Communist ranks as in non-Communist Only when Lenin and then Stalin stood as supreme priest wielding a monopoly of truth” did unity exist.

Without such a single controlling voice, the theoretical foundation on which Communism rests actually compels adher­ents to differ and to quarrel Far from being a binding force, as the Commu­nists and some non Communists still like to say, the common principles’ to which Communists subscribe are a built-in source of friction ‘ It is extremely un­likely that either power would agree again to allowing a single party to wield total and complete authority o‘er the whole movement.

Actually the Sino Soviet Alliance has become ineffectual There is no exchange of military planning or consultations All Russian aid has been cut off, and It has become apparent that Russia does not intend on developing China into a nu­clear power in spite of her conflict with the United States in Southeast Asia and Formosa Because of the suspension of aid to Red China, the Chinese industrial output has been cut to between 30 and 50% of capacity The Russian built equipment needing replacement parts lie idle and has resulted in a production attention rate of about 10% per year.

Same Objective —Different Tactics

This split in the Communist world has been something that the West has want­ed for many years Virtually nothing has been done by the free world to exploit the split The damage has been the result of clashes within their own camp — their own leaders having thought up more nasty things to say about each other and more issues on which to quarrel than the leaders of the West could have suggest­ed It must be borne in mind, however, that in spite of the apparent split, the goals of both powers are exactly the same There has been a change of tactics in achieving these goals, but the ultimate end aimed at remains unchanged This is most apparent in India, where Russia is working diligently and at great cost to woo the government to Communism At the same time Red China is doing her best to encourage the growth of a revolu­tionary situation Regardless of who suc­ceeds the result will be a Communist-oriented India Communism is consecrat­ed to the elimination of all non-Commu­nist powers The more outward and aggressive tactics of Red China have been limited because of internal problems, but whenever and wherever it is possible ag­gression is pursued to top capacity.

This attitude of hostility on the part of Red China adds up to a very tough policy line among top U S officials Ser­ious consideration is presently being given to expanding the line of offense in South­east Asia perhaps even attacking Red military bases in North Vietnam and China itself If war should occur between the United States and Red China, U S military men warn that never again’ will the borders of China be treated as privileged sanctuary free from air attack, as in the Korean war Russia has already warned Red China that they could expect no military help from the Soviet Union in the event of war with the U S growing out of Chinese pres­sure into Laos and South Vietnam.

All in all, It is sorely obvious that the problems of today are a thousand-fold more complex than those of 50 years ago The decisions and actions of nations to­day have a far-reaching and momentous effect on distant parts of the world No nation is an island — no ruler, an isola­tionist It would appear that the pace civilization is setting is positioning the earth’s polities for the appearance of Christ The code of Communism, that there must be one, and one only, su­preme authority is basically sound, and shall find true fulfilment in the King­dom age when Jesus shall exercise His sovereign rule over all the world, as the unchallenged King of kings and Lord of lords.

Early in May, Nikita Khrushchev and his family began an historical journey that was to take them through a course that remarkably portends the very direc­tion Russia is to take just prior to the advent of Jesus The Soviet Premier sailed from the Black Sea through the Dar­danelles (visiting Turkey) and thence to the north coast of Africa His reception in Turkey was somewhat less than enthu­siastic as one would suppose The wors­ening crisis in Cyprus between Greek and Turkish Cypriots with Russia cheering for Greece has raised tension to a high level between the two states The Soviet Union would like very much to gain a Communist foothold on Cyprus, from which she could launch a quick and decisive attack upon Turkey to fulfill her age old dream of controlling the Dar danelles and providing herself with a warm water port

Mutual Admiration

The real destination of Khrushchev on this trip was Egypt where the Premier was scheduled to participate in ceremon­ies marking the completion of the first stage of the Aswan High Dam This is a Soviet-financed project that is expected to exceed $1 3 billion It will provide much needed irrigation for much of the arid region of Egypt, and by means of a new hydroelectric plant supply much of her power His reception on the soil of Egypt was the greatest afforded any visi­tor in Egypt’s recent history, contrasting sharply with the cool welcome given Com­munist Chinese Premier Chou En-lar in December It was estimated that half a million Egyptians lined the streets to halal the arrival of the boss of the Kremlin When his boat docked at Alexandria, all the ships in the harbor blew their horns in welcome, while overhead Soviet-built MIG fighter jets roared in enthusiastic acclamation Upon emerging from his vessel the Premier was joined by Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser then fol­lowed the familiar “bear-hug,” after which the two presented themselves arm-in arm before the cheering throngs The two brief speeches that followed sounded like the opening address of a convention of the mutual admiration society Nasser praised the Russian chieftain as a “cour­ageous fighter who has fought all his life for his views and principles.” Nasser re­ferred to him as “a noble friend who dur­ing our most difficult moments took the stand of a true and faithful friend.” The Egyptian leader further described the Arab Republic and the Soviet Union as “united in the struggle for the dignity and well being of mankind and for the liquidation of imperialism and exploita­tion.” Later Nasser presented Mrs. Khrushchev with the Order of Merit, and her husband with the Collar of the Nile. Not to be outdone by his “com­rade,” Khrushchev at the Aswan Dam fete declared, “I am happy to declare here on this historic occasion that the Soviet Union has decided today to pre­sent Gamal Abdel Nasser the highest decoration as a Hero of the Soviet Union.”

Consolidation of Enemies

As was expected the Russian Premier made several verbal attacks on “western Imperialism” warning Britain that he was ready to support the Arab nations should her oil interests in the Middle East bring her to the point of fighting for them. “If you are going to flight then I declare in the name of the Soviet government we will not stand neutral.” The “colonial” policies of Great Britain were also besieged, almost constantly during his 17 day stay in Egypt. Concerning Aden on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Khrushchev warned, ” . . . we do not approve of its (Britain’s) insistence on maintaining its dom­ination over Aden and neighboring areas.”

To further strengthen the ties that bind, the Premier gave his support to the Arab world in their opposition to the diversion of the Jordan River waters by Israel. He spoke of Israel’s policies re­garding the waters from the Jordan as a plan to “rob the Arab world of its own water.” Conflicts over water rights have been occurring for centuries in the Middle East. Today, however it is about to reach a climax. Israel plans sometime this summer to divert the waters of the Jor­dan to irrigate the Negev Desert. The plan will involve the use of tremendous pipes to carry the water pumped from the Sea of Galilee to the Galilean Hills, and from there 155 miles south into Israel’s Negev Desert. The completed project will carry 320 million cubic meters annually from the Sea of Galilee to irrigate 375,000 acres of desert land. The Jordanians contend that Israel will be able to pump 720 million cubic met­ers of water and will raise the salt con­tent of the lower Jordan River to such an extent that it will no longer be fit for irrigation. The Arabs now threaten to cut off the headwaters of the Jordan as a counter action.

Common Grounds

Though the Arab nations have diver­gent views on policies of state, and though Nasser’s dream of attaining the control of a completely united Arab con­federacy may never be realized, there is one issue on which all are in complete agreement: the successful and final over­throw of Israel. This common hatred of Israel has caused consolidation of thought and action among the Arab nations; a consolidation that has been impossible on other issues. In January of this year a conference was held in Cairo presided over by Egyptian President Nasser at which thirteen Arab nations were in at­tendance. The purpose of this historical assembly was to lay plans for the over­throw of Israel. The forthcoming crisis in the Middle East will be watched in­tently by the student of prophecy as he witnesses before his very eyes the un­folding of the will and purpose of Almighty God.

According to the outline of events in the 11th chapter of Daniel and the 38th of Ezekiel, Russia will make her move against Israel via Eastern Europe, prob­ably through Turkey. Her successful venture to Africa suggests a consolida­tion of forces against a common foe. Khrushchev’s denunciation of Israel could be the laying of the groundwork for this unholy alliance between the Arab world and the Soviet Union. The inter­ests of Britain in the Middle East (Ezek. 38-13) and her failure to do anything about it (Dan. 11:40) at the time of the end are graphically predicted in today’s events. Khrushchev’s warning against Britain in regard to her oil interests in the Middle East will be much more than just a warning when the “set time” to favour Zion arrives.

Messiah’s Land

Israel has yet a great and humbling lesson to learn. Today, she trusts on the strength of her fighting men to hold off her enemies. The time will come when she will realize desperately the folly of relying on the flesh when her land is in the hands of the spoiler from the north. It will be the Messiah who will effect true and lasting restoration for his peo­ple; but only after he has defeated the Gogian host on the mountains of Israel. The Arab confederacy against Israel to drive them out of the land is destined to failure. Esau and Ishmael though as­piring to the “mount of the congrega­tion, in the sides of the north” shall never occupy it. The Kingdom is the Lord’s and the Jews are His people. Their land is the place of His rest and shall ultimately be cleansed from all the defiling influences to which it is presently subjected.

“But upon mount Zion shall be de­liverance, and there shall be holiness; and the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions . . . And the captivity of this host of the children of Israel shall possess that of the Canaanites, even unto Zarephath; and the captivity of Jerusal­em, which is in Sepharad shall possess the cities of the south. And saviours shall come up on mount Zion to judge the mount of Esau; and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s.” (Obadiah 17:20-21)

The Second Vatican Council

On December 4th, the second session of the Ecumenical Council was recessed, to be convened next September. This was only the second in a series of general councils totalling 21, that had been held at the Vatican. The first Vatican Council took place in 1869-1870; all others coven­ing in either the Near East or Western Europe.

The primary purpose of the present council is to bring Christians of different faiths closer together, and if possible, to effect re-union. The Catholics, clergy and laity hope that the council will turn its face to the future, clearing away many of the objectional non-necessities that pre­sently stand as insurmountable walls be­tween them and non-Catholics. Pope John called for “aggiornamento” — to bring the church up to date, while at the same time calling for all “separated brethren” to recognize the Roman Cath­olic Church as its true home. The papacy still uses the language of “‘return” in re­gard of those outside of the church. In an encyclical (6-29-59) it announced, The One True Church must be puri­fied . . . The way is open. This is our Father’s House; take or re-take your place in it.”

The “separated” brethren include the Eastern Orthodox, and all those who are evangelical; i.e. Anglicans (Church of England), Baptists, Congregational­ists, Disciples, Presbyterians, Lutherans. These are further identified as those who are always ready to receive “new light” under the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Eastern or Greek Orthodox broke completely away from the Roman Catho­lic system in about 1054 after several centuries of political controversy and ec­clesiastical rivalries. When the Imperial capital of Rome was moved from Rome to Constantinople a patriarchate was cre­ated there. Constantine and subsequent emperors often played an important role in church politics, which involved the sees of Rome and Constantinople in im­perial politics. The schism widened as time went by until in the ninth century, Photius was made patriarch of Constantinople A prolonged struggle ensued be tween him and the Pope at Rome regard­ing creedal and administrative matters Until recently, Photius was unquestion­ably the chiefest of all sinners in the eyes of Rome In 1054, Patriarch Michael Cerularius rejected and publicly burned a papal letter that attempted to excom­municate him.

Separation of the various Protestant religious groups came about in the period of the reformation which began early in the 16th century In the European area, the movement was prompted by doctrinal issues associated with the names of Mar­tin Luther and John Calvin In England the separation of the Church of England from the Church of Rome was more political in nature than doctrinal The Church of England has long cultivated ties with the Eastern Orthodox churches, several visits having been made in recent years Dr Michael Ramsey, Archbishop of Canterbury in 1961, called for ‘renewed theological discussions with the Orthodox”.

Superficial Changes

The issues that separate the Roman Catholic Church from the Protestants are many and varied The strong trend to ward Mariology — the development of the cult of the Virgin Mary is avoided among most non-Catholic groups because of the fear that the minds of the believers will be distracted from the superior and more essential role of her Son Other items of vital concern to the Protestant groups are the authority of the Bible, confessions, indulgences, and especially the supremacy of the Vatican In 1870 Rome settled the question of authority insofar as the Catholics are concerned by defining papal infallibility The fact still remains that complete and organic union can only come about under “the leadership of the Pope” Until this hap pens, the Roman Catholic Church considers all others outside the church.

In spite of the great publicity that covered the Second Vatican Council sessions, and the superficial changes in the liturgy, there was virtually nothing for the Protestants to stand up and cheer about Though it was voted that bishops share with the Pope, by divine right, full and supreme power over the church, the vote did not challenge papal supremacy, a leading point of contention in reunion The subject of the Virgin Mary was skillfully avoided, being put off until the fall session

An Historical Journey

Close upon the heels of the close of the Vatican Ecumenical Council came the announcement that Pope Paul VI would make a visit to the Holy Land in Janu­ary This would be the first time a Pontiff has ever gone from Rome to Israel, and the first time in 159 years that a Pope has left the borders of Italy The pur­pose of the pilgrimage, in the words of the Pope, an expression of prayer, penance and revelation. To summon to this one Holy Church our separated brethren, to implore di­vine mercy on behalf of peace among men, that peace which shows in these days how weak and tottering it is . .

Probably the most significant achievement of the Pontiff s journey was his meeting with Patriarch Athenagoras I of Constantinople The meeting was un­precedented, adding a new dimension to the image of modern papacy The Patriarch of Constantinople addressed the Pope, This moment, Your Holiness, is one of the most significant for mankind Humanity at its highest spiritual level has the opportunity at last to guide the world toward peace ‘ Pope Paul replied to the high ranking prelate of Orthodoxy, Your Holiness, we must bring our churches closer together It will not be easy But we are already on the right road Nothing is insurmountable in our striving to unite mankind, but we must unite beforehand ” This was the first encounter of Pope and Patriarch since 1439, indicating the new thinking of the Vatican The Pope indicated to Athen­agoras that there were, in reality, only two or three doctrinal differences exist­ing between the two groups; differences that could readily be resolved by theo­logical studies The groundwork had thus been laid to establish a dialogue be­tween the two churches. Though the Pope tended to minimize the differences, the real barrier lay not in doctrinal issues. but rather in papal infallibility and the numerous dogmas of the Roman Church Uniting of the two bodies under normal conditions could take centuries to develop.

The Beast and the Lamb

The creation of the “new image” of the papacy and the ever widening scope of her influence can mean but one thing to the student of prophecy. The Roman Catholic Church is getting into the polit­ical and ecclesiastical position outlined for her by the finger of prophecy. It is true that just as the natural merging of the Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox churches would possibly take centuries to develop, the confederation of other Chris­tian faiths with Catholicism would like­wise involve a long slow process. But, very often, in the unfolding of the pur­pose of God, normal means are speeded up. That which under natural circum­stances would never come about, some­times happens when it fits into God’s eternal plan. The prestige of the Catho­lic Church has been lifted considerably in the last few years, and Christians of Protestant faiths are finding less and less to protest about.

According to the 17th chapter of Re­velation, the very kings (10 horns of the beast) that formerly caused the pa­pacy to lose its temporal power are to give their power and strength unto the beast. Something of earth-shattering im­portance will cause mankind to support the papal system, for John is told, “These shall have one mind, and shall give their power and strength to the beast.” (ch. 17:13). The unholy alliance that results from this confederation “shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall over­come them . . (V14). The great event that will cause this power to develop is, in all likelihood the destruction of the Gogian host on the mountains of Israel. Christendom does not look for a king­dom to be established on the earth, much less for its capitol to be set up in Jeru­salem. Also, Catholicism expects the anti­christ to come out of Palestine. When news of the destruction of Gog and his confederates reaches Central Europe the cry will probably go forth from the Vat­ican that the antichrist is here. The world, rocked with the devastation of global warfare, will welcome the refuge of the beast, and many of the Catholic countries will join forces with him to overthrow the alleged antichrist.

The prominence with which the Cath­olic world has been applauded in these days may very well be a step in this direction. It is therefore with keen in­terest that the people of God watch the growth of the ecclesiastical system. which less than a century ago was strip­ped of its temporal power. Well, may we regard the words of the Spirit: “Come out of her my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” (Rev. 18:4)

A new year—A new President

1963 will long be remembered as one of the truly dark era’s of United States history. America buried its president and sadly went about the business of picking up the loose ends and continuing the function of its complex political machinery in Washington. The transition of power from one head to another moved remarkably smoothly however, as Presi­dent Lyndon Baines Johnson was sworn officially into the highest office an Ameri­can can hold just 98 minutes after John F. Kennedy was pronounced dead. The eyes, not only of Americans, but of peo­ples all over the world are fixed upon the new president as he performs the varied duties suddenly committed to his trust. Christadelphians are especially interested in the policies of this man be­cause of his family background in the Truth. (See President Johnson and the Truth’s Heritage). His sudden elevation to the position of head of the mightiest nuclear power in the world may have been more than just chance. The political signs about us, the great unrest evidenced more and more on every hand and the small but deeply significant nation cradled at the east end of the Mediterranean Sea, strongly suggest that Lyndon’s rise to power was for a purpose that is in con­cert with the Divine will. The position that President Johnson will take on Foreign Policy, Foreign Aid, Military cutbacks and Defense will have tremendous effects on Americans, and, perhaps, even a more profound effect on non-Ameri­cans.

Let us look briefly at some of the principles for which this man stands as he commands the difficult and challenging position as President. Basically a prac­tical man, Johnson is a master politician, having served eight years as the Demo­cratic Floor leader. His ability to lead and persuade his colleagues in congress earned him the reputation of being a tactical wizard. A tireless worker, it is not uncommon for the President to put in 12 and 18 hour work days. He enjoys tremendously his work—so much so that, even on occasions when he is away from his duties he will have made previous arrangements for discussion with his aids and advisors. By his own admission, “The Presidency is the most burdensome job in the world . . . It’s not the President that gets in trouble when things go wrong. It’s the country that gets in trouble. It’s not the President or the Sec­retary of State that gets in a jam. It’s the whole nation in trouble—the whole free world.” A contemplation of this staggering truth moved the Chief Execu­tive to say, “it’s terrifying.”

Foreign Policy

At an impromptu Press conference, when asked about his attitude regarding a meeting with Nikita Khrushchev, Presi­dent Johnson replied, “I am ready and willing to meet with any of the world leaders at any time there is any indication a meeting would be fruitful and produc­tive.” Johnson seems quite determined to do something concrete about the cold war. In fact, this area of effort will undoubt­edly get a great deal of attention from the Chief Executive, who considers it to be top priority in importance. “My num­ber one priority, my number one goal, my number one objective, my number one ambition is to try to provide the leader­ship for my country with vision, toler­ance, patience and strength that will con­vince the rest of the world that we court no territory, we seek no satellites, that we are trying to live in peace and pros­perity, and we would like for our fellow men everywhere to be able to do the same thing.”

The new President’s attitude concern­ing Cuba, Berlin. South Vietnam will re­main much the same as that of the late Kennedy. It is expected though, that they will find Johnson a hard bargainer and tough political adversary, able to speak their language.

The President succeeded in convinc­ing visiting German Chancellor Ludwig Erhard that America was deeply concerned with the Berlin situation. The tremen­dous task of trying to keep the budget in line and at the same time promoting world security, was made even more com­plex with the wearisome burden of for­eign aid and the maintenance of Ameri­can armies in Europe. At the end of his visit, Erhard said with genuine feeling, “All these questions were discussed in de­tail and we have been able to state full agreement and full unity of views.”

Foreign Aid

The bill for Foreign Aid sent to the congress for ratification by John Kennedy had stipulated an amount of 4.5 billion dollars. By the time it cleared the House it had been reduced to 3.5 billion. The Senate then voted an expenditure of 3.7 billion. The final authorization will still have to be appropriated, which will actu­ally determine the amount to be spent on foreign aid. The cut was the greatest in the 17 year history of the program, and reflects the growing pressure of voters who want to know why, when there are Americans who are poor and underprivi­leged, the government does not spend its money here instead of in distant lands.

In his State of The Union address, the President declared “unconditional war on poverty in America”, to be initiated with a tax reduction designed to create new jobs and markets. The attack on pov­erty is to include other federal programs such as area redevelopment, slum clear­ance, and a concerted program to deal with the problems of the aged, unskilled, underprivileged, and illiterate. This shift in emphasis may result in less intensified foreign aid hand-outs. Congress is deter­mined that the whole Foreign Aid pro­gram must be revamped to provide a system that will serve the interests of America best. Aid to Communist ruled nations would be limited to surplus food. Assistance to other states would be regu­lated by their ability to get along with other beneficiaries of American aid.

President Johnson has but seven months in which to create an image in the eyes of the voters. At that time the presiden­tial campaigns will have been brought into full swing. His actions, his attitude and his philosophy will be scrutinized closely by the peoples of the United States during the next few months. The eyes of the household of faith will also be focused on the president. It is extremely unlikely that Lyndon Johnson could have become totally unfamiliar with the Truth in his successful climb up the political ladder. The basic concepts of the true gospel must surely be remembered and perhaps in the day when Jesus sets foot on this earth again to send forth His edict to all heads of State to submit to His sovereign rule, and if, by the grace of Almighty God, it be in the next few years, Lyndon Johnson may recall the teachings of his grandparents and his aunts and wisely “serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling”, laying his crown at the feet of Jesus.

“Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling’. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.”   (Psalm 2:10-12)

Cuban Military Build-up

By mid-October, Russian technicians and military personnel had succeeded in transporting to and erecting upon the soil of Cuba sufficient missile bases to blow up several large United States cities. The Soviet crash program completed more than 40 medium-range ballistic mis­siles, ready for launching. This type of missile, if equipped with a nuclear war head, could destroy a city of 250,000 people within a range of 1000 miles. Also under construction were launching pads for eight intermediate missiles, ca­pable of striking practically any part of the United States.

On Tuesday, October 16th, films and photographs showing conclusively the presence of offensive missile bases in Cuba were delivered to the hands of President Kennedy. The pictures revealed the massive Soviet buildup of military strength in Cuba. Photographs taken a day or two apart of particular areas also displayed the speed with which the build­up was progressing. It was apparent to officials at Washington that, by a conservative estimate, the Soviet Union had been planning the construction of missile bases for at least a year at a cost of over $1 billion.

President Kennedy immediately called for top level conferences to outline and put into effect U. S. counter strategy. Many proposals were submitted ranging from a diplomatic note to a full scale invasion of Cuba. Some of the presidential aids felt that nothing short of actual military invasion could rid the United States of this Communist threat. Only then could the Americas be certain of the complete dismantling of missile bases in Cuba. All these were discarded in favour of a naval “quarantine’ —a naval blockade against Cuba that would prevent the import of offensive weapons to the Red base.

The big decision

After several days of planning and correlation of strategy, the president ad­dressed the nation and informed them of the threat in Cuba and the steps the Uni­ted States was taking to halt the military buildup. After outlining the character of the buildup in Cuba, and submitting the proof in the form of photos, Kennedy then outlined the course of action adopted by the government. The more salient points of the president’s address are:

1. A strict quarantine on all offensive military equipment under shipment to Cuba. If necessary, the quarantine be extended to other types of cargo, but for the present, the “necessities of life” would be permitted.

2. “It shall be the policy of this nation to regard any nuclear missile-launched from Cuba against any nation in the Western Hemisphere as an attack by the Soviet Union on the United States, requiring a full retaliatory response upon the Soviet Union.”
3. A demand “for the prompt dismantl­ing and withdrawal of all offensive weapons in Cuba, under the supervi­sion of U. N. observers, before the quarantine can be lifted.”

The president’s adamant position in regard to a nuclear missile being launched from Cuba, being considered as an attack by the Soviet Union against the U S A was based on the fact that weapons then in Cuba are Russian.

Soviet Reaction

The Kremlin was obviously shaken by the firmness and decisiveness of the presidents message The gamble that the Uni ted States would be too weak and vacillating to take this stand was lost by Khrushchev As a result, the Kremlin boss backed down and countered with an unacceptable proposal that the U S withdraw her bases from Turkey and the Soviet Union would do the same in Cuba The cynical swap deal was immediately turned down, as Kennedy rejected the proposal and increased the speed of the U S military buildup Florida s Air Force bases bristled with squadrons of supersonic F100s and F106s Ten thou sand Marines were ordered on maneuvers in the Caribbean, while an Air Force Reserve of more than 14,000 men was called to active duty It became quite clear to the world that the United States was ready to move against Cuba if Khrushchev refused to dismantle the bases and ship the missiles back to Russia.

The following day, in a message to the president, Khrushchev promised to do as the U S demanded, and agreed that representatives of the U N may verify dismantling In the acceptance of this offer, the two powerful nuclear nations backed away from the brink of war Later, Nikita Khrushchev suggested that the International Red Cross be appointed to survey the dismantling operations instead of representatives of the U N.

Anastas Mikoyan, Russia s top trouble shooter, was dispatched to Cuba to calm the ruffled Castro ( I have not once been consulted ) and assure him of continued Soviet support Acting Secretary of the United Nations U Thant had just visited Cuba and had failed to convince Castro to allow any U N inspection of missiles in Cuba The alternative suggestion of the job being done by the International Red Cross was also rejected As the Tidings goes to press, Mikoyan is still in Cuba, conferring with the fiery Cuban dictator It was apparent to all that Castro was just another Communist pawn, and, in a show down, could not count on Russian military backing Regardless of Castros determination to keep all foreign observers away from Cuban soil, Nikita Khrushchev has promised that on the spot inspection of missile sites would be permitted

Instinct for Survival

Americans, fearing a full fledged crisis and rationing of food went on a buying spree Many stores were swamped with housewives, eagerly clearing shelves of canned foods and drinking water Sporting goods stores reported a run on small fire arms and ammunition, as fear ridden citizens sought a vain protection against the ravages of war The startling thing about the weapon sales was the fact that Americans were not procuring the arms to use against a hostile invading enemy These would be hopelessly inadequate against the modern weapons of war Instead, the rifles and shotguns were being bought to protect themselves against their friends and neighbors, who, in the event of a missile attack might present a threat to their shelter and food, or to their families We have been personally told by many of our own associates at the place of our employment, that they would not hesitate to use their guns on any and all who attempted to share their own food or shelter in the event of a thermo nuclear war.

A consideration of the events of the past few weeks, and the reaction they have produced on the people of the world have brought home to all of us a realization of just how quickly individuals may panic in the face of a crisis When faced with impending calamities and personal danger, man degenerates to the basic and animal like propensities of self preservation How quickly he will turn upon those whom he has considered his friends in the past, when his own personal being is threatened It has also be come apparent that the governments of the world are willing to risk the possi­bility of a thermonuclear war rather than give in to the demands of the enemy. Just how swiftly this could be precipitated was hinted at as the two nuclear giants approached and then backed away from the brink of war.

Turkey—Gateway to Palestine

Nikita Khrushchev’s unsuccessful pro­posal to swap Turkey for Cuba brings to our attention the place where an actual shooting war is likely to break out. Tur­key, lying to the north of Israel, is a buffer state for the west. Russia has long desired a warm water port, and the Dar­danelles on the east end of Turkey offer the only outlet from the Black Sea. The dreams of world domination by Russia would be considerably advanced were she able to take this country. She would then be in a position to fulfill her role as outlined in the 38th and 39th chapters of Ezekiel, where the finger of prophecy traces her steps southward through Pal­estine and on to Egypt. The eventual re­moval of U. S. missile bases in Turkey is top priority with the Kremlin, and she is ready to risk anything short of war to achieve it.

The Saints in the Time of Trouble

To the household of faith, the events of the past few weeks serve to vividly remind us of the uncertainty of the times in which we live. We have been made to realize that war of the most horrifying nature can be precipitated without a mo­ment’s hesitation. The implements of de­struction now at the disposal of Gentile powers can easily bring about the fulfill­ment of Jeremiah’s appalling prophecy of carnage related in the 25th chapter of his prophecy, verses 30 to 33, where the slain of the Lord are said to stretch “from one end of the earth even to the other end of the earth”. The victims of this prophecy, though “slain of the Lord”, may very well be the casualties of thermo­nuclear war, when through the confusion and panic of global conflict, every man’s sword is turned against his brother.

Though the saints are to participate in the judgment of the Gogian host, and in the binding of kings (Psalm 149), it does not necessarily mean that they are to be taken to the judgment seat prior to Jeremiah’s prophecy. In fact, the coming trouble may serve as a test to those in covenant relationship with God; a trial of fire. In short, it is quite possible that the household may experience the ravages of this unprecedented conflict, and there­fore, should prepare their hearts and minds to meet such a crisis. The hope and confidence of all of God’s saints is eloquently set forth by the sweet Psalm­ist of Israel, as his words inspire unshake­able faith and trust in the promises of God.

“The Lord is my light and my salva­tion: whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. Though an host should en­camp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident . . . I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” (Psalm 27:1-3, 13,14)

A Change in Policy

In a speech delivered at the University of Maine on October 19, 1963, President John Kennedy presented his views on the development of foreign relations since the Cuban crisis one year ago. It was the President’s opinion that Americans could view with pride this nation’s handling of a situation that could have plunged the world into a nuclear war. The president, though cautious was quite optimistic on the future effects of the manner in which the United States met this crisis. Though conceding setbacks in the nation’s endeavor on behalf of freedom, the gen­eral tenor of his speech was one of guarded satisfaction. The President said in part: “A year ago it would have been easy to assume that all-out war was in­evitable–that any agreement with the Soviets was impossible—and that an unlimited arms race was unavoidable. Today it is equally easy for some to assume that the cold war is over—that all outstanding issues between the Soviets and ours can be quickly and satisfactorily settled—and that we shall now have, in the words of the Psalmist, an “abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.” President Kennedy then went on to point out that neither view is correct, and that there still existed tremendous areas of tension and conflict from “Berlin to Cuba to South­east Asia”.

The President also emphasized the change in the presidential seal emblem. On the face of it is an eagle holding in its talons both the olive branch of peace and the arrows of military might. The face of the eagle formerly had been in the direction of the arrows, symbolizing the nation’s preparedness for war. A change was initiated by former President Roosevelt so that the eagle now faces the olive branch, indicating a new spirit of seeking peaceful solutions to world prob­lems. One will wonder as he reads the words of the President just how consistent this “spirit of peace” is with the great military preparedness the United States is presently engaged in. Fifty billion dollars have been appropriated for defense purposes in the current national budget, $48 billion of which is set aside directly for the purchasing and development of new weapons, and maintenance of the armed forces. Spending for defense is expected to be up another billion and a half in 1965, after which officials estimate it will decline. It seems unlikely, however, that defense spending will be lowered in the future. Weapons now considered to be ultimate in design and purpose can become obsolete in a very short time. In this age of weapon sophistication, the de­velopment of new and more complicated defensive and offensive systems requires enormous outlays of money. One reason for estimating a cut in defense spending in the latter part of this decade is based on the assumption that the United States does not plan to deploy an anti-missile-­defense system within the next five years. If a practical system could be developed, it would require at the very least an expenditure of $10 billion.

Communist Gains

In looking over developments since the Cuban crisis a year ago, it appears as though major concessions have been made in favour of the Soviets. The Kremlin’s boss demanded removal of U. S. missiles from Turkey in exchange for the removal of 42 missiles and 42 jet bombers from Cuban soil. Though the demand was rejected, 90 days later, the United States dismantled 15 Jupiter missiles from Tur­key. In addition to this, another 30 were removed from Italy, while in Britain, 60 Thor missiles were withdrawn.

Since the signing of the peace treaty, the U. S. has shown a concerted effort to normalize relations with Communist satellites. American grain and livestock have been sold to Hungary and Ru­mania. As the Tidings goes to press, though the sale of 200 million bushels of wheat to Russia has been authorized by the government, the two powers are haggling over how the wheat is to be transported to Russia. It is contended by those opposing the wheat deal, that the sale provides Khrushchev an opportunity to get out of a dangerous situation.

The recent signing of the test ban treaty, again provided a breather spell for Russia, who was feeling heavily the burden of maintaining an arms race with the United States. The banning of tests in the atmosphere is a serious if not insur­mountable obstacle in the development of a reliable antimissile-defense system for the U. S. Nikita Khrushchev in the first week of November announced that the Soviet Union had perfected a workable anti-missile missile capable of stopping a barrage of enemy missiles aimed at Russia.

Meanwhile, Russia still has thousands of troops in Cuba, and it is not altogether certain that all missiles have been re­moved from the Island. The truth is that Russia has succeeded in building the most modern and powerful military machine in the history of Latin America, less than 200 miles from the American mainland. To a group of U. S. businessmen touring Europe on November 6th and 7th, the Kremlin boss snapped, “Don’t bring us to the edge. If something comes over the edge, it means disaster. If there is war in Cuba, we will defend Cuba.”

The childish outbursts of temper and constant change in character of the Soviet Premier makes it impossible to predict his changing moods. Just when it ap­peared that perhaps the Berlin question was thawing, the East German Reds stopped a U.S. convoy enroute from West Germany across Soviet-held East Germany to Berlin. The American soldiers were told to dismount from the trucks for a head count. The U.S. offi­cers refused the demand, calling it a “flagrant violation” of the Allied right of unrestricted access to internationally occu­pied Berlin. After 41 hours of waiting, the convoy got through, both sides in­sisting that they had not yielded to the demands of the other. Khrushchev’s com­ment to the businessmen about this inci­dent: “It is difficult to say what would have happened. It is possible that you and I would not be here today. We would not have yielded, and they would not have yielded, and they would have had to move over our dead bodies.” U.S. officials view the harrassment as another effort in the old campaign to diminish the Allied position in Berlin, and eventu­ally to drive them out completely.

A Glimmer of Hope

Returning to the President’s speech, there is one comment with which we can whole-heartedly agree; his disagreement with the view of some that we shall now have an “abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.” The quotation is well known to Bible students, for it is from the 72nd Psalm, where David speaks of the establishment of a system of peace such as the world has never seen. The government of which the Psalm­ist speaks is one, however, that is to be established right here on the earth. In verse 8, the dominion of this king is said to be “from sea to sea, and from the rivers unto the ends of the earth.” The king of verse 1 is said to have re­ceived his judgments (Divine laws and ordinances) from God. The king is, in fact, the Son of God, Jesus of Nazareth, as a similar psalm (2) indicates. He is styled in Isaiah 9:6 “the Prince of Peace”, for in him only has God vested the power and authority to establish lasting and permanent peace in the earth. David in Spirit speaks of this quality of his reign in verses 2 to 4: “He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment, The mountains shall bring peace to the people, and the little hills by righteousness. He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor.”

The Scriptures proclaim in clear tones that the peace and happiness which good men seek will only be realized with the advent of Christ. The announcement of the angels to the shepherds at the birth of Christ, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” will only come to pass when Jesus shall return from heaven in his glory, in company with his holy angels to sit up­on the throne of his glory. The turbulence and unrest among the nations to­day; the mutual distrust of world pow­ers and violence and bloodshed seen on every hand testify of the days in which we live. For such are the events described by Jesus as should be evident in the earth just prior to his advent. The only bright spot to be seen in the world con­ditions today is the fact that they may herald in the coming of Jesus, who will take to him his great power and reign over a conquered and regenerated earth.

Only with the inauguration of the Kingdom of God will the symbolic change in the Presidential Seal find ful­fillment. In that “day” when Jesus will rule the world in righteousness men and nations will be compelled to “beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks”, as multitudes flock to Jerusalem, “the city of the great King” to learn of His ways. The faith and trust that Jesus has captured today in the few will be instilled in the many of tomorrow as nations gladly lay down their arms and crowns at His feet; no more to learn war, but ever to dwell safely and un­afraid beneath the loving protection of their King.

“But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the nicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins . . they shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy moun­tain, for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” (Isa. 11:4,5,9)

In spite of it all

In the last week of June the President of the United States made a long planned visit to Berlin, London, and Rome amid rumors that the time was ill selected. The journey resulted from an invita­tion last January from Italy’s Premier Amintore Fanfani, whose government has since fallen Those critical of Kennedy’s visit pointed out that he would arrive in Italy amid political turmoil, in Berlin at a time when Chancellor Adenauer is about to resign from political life and in Britain, that was and still is rocking from the most lurid spy scandal that country has ever experienced Besides all this, it was evident that the President was hav­ing his own troubles here at home in the United States Racial strife was mounting and demonstrations were becoming more frequent and wide spread, events that could prove very important factors in the presidential elections coming up next year.

The fears that current world conditions would make the trip a failure were quick­ly dispelled immediately after the Presi­dent’s arrival in West Berlin The enthusiastic ovation given Kennedy was the greatest ever given to any State leader there since the end of World War II Of the 2,200,000 population in West Berlin, it was estimated that a million and a half turned out to see the President It was obvious that West Berliners were deeply impressed with the assurances that President Kennedy gave them in regard to the defense of Europe.

European Defense

Shortly after his arrival in West Ger­many, Kennedy delivered a speech in the capital, Bonn, in which he spelled out just how responsible the United States felt in their obligations to West Ger­many The President assured the Ger­mans that the presence of the United States in Germany would be continued as long as it was desired and required “Your liberty is our liberty, and any attack on your soil is an attack upon our own ” (The theme here is faintly remi­niscent of the worn phrases of Nikita Khrushchev in his assurances to Cuba ) The President went so far as to tell the Germans that “the United States will risk its cities to defend yours because we need your freedom to protect ours ” To reemphasize the sincerity of the United States to stand true to her commitments, Kennedy further added “A threat to the freedom of Europe is a threat to the freedom of America That is why no Ad­ministration in Washington (in reply to de Gaulle’s suggestion that Kennedy’s successors would not necessarily follow his policies) can fail to respond to such a threat—not merely from good will, but from necessity—and that is why we look forward to a united Europe in an Atlan­tic partnership—an entity of inter-depen­dent parts, sharing equally both burdens and decisions, and linked together in the tasks of defense as well as the arts of peace.

“Those who would doubt our pledge or deny this indivisibility, those who would separate Europe from America or split one ally from another, would only give aid and comfort to the men who make themselves our adversaries and welcome any disarray.”

Thus, in firm and unmistakable language, the President made it clear to all, West Berliners, Britain, France and Rus­sia the firm policies of the United States in regard to the defense of Europe.

A new and important Ally

One of the primary aims of the visit was to bolster an Atlantic partnership in the form of a proposal styled, “a multilateral nuclear force”. The proposal in­volves the establishment of a fleet of merchant ships whose crews are to be supplied from America, Britain, West Germany, Italy and other allied countries on a mixed basis These vessels would he extremely fast and armed with Polaris missiles, travelling on the Atlantic and Mediterranean sea lanes Though the pro­posal has met with considerable resistance from both France and Italy, the plan was received with great enthusiasm by Ger­many, the only people in West Europe making a sizable contribution to collec­tive defense Today, West Germany has in excess of 400,000 men under arms, almost as many as the U S has presently in Europe.

Many political parties in Britain are strongly opposed to the establishment of an integrated surface nuclear force, but are faced with the dilemma of either joining with the U S and Germany or relying in part on a defense system run by Germans and Americans It is be­coming alarmingly apparent to Great Britain that West Germany is swiftly be­coming as Important if not more im­portant ally to the United States It is the only dependable ally on the continent, and should trouble break out in that area, would prove to be an invaluable military aid to the United States.

French Nuclear Independence

In France, as expected, reaction to Ken­nedy’s smashing success in West Ger­many ranged from indifference to deep concern The de Gaulle visit to West Berlin in 1962 aroused far less enthu­siasm than did Kennedy’s, indicating the trend that Germany was following Presi­dent Kennedy’s proposal of a surface nu­clear force was in direct opposition to de Gaulle’s insistence on an independent French nuclear force The French insist that Kennedy’s ‘Atlantic Community’ does not exist, either militarily or eco­nomically, and see in the reference a very real threat to the economic boom now be­ing enjoyed from the Common Market The fact that President Kennedy did not include France in his itinerary marks the keenness of the differences that separate these two powers.

In a speech made recently in the Uni­ted States, President Kennedy urged for a nuclear test ban He went so far as to promise that the United States would make no more atmospheric tests so long as other nations did not De Gaulle has ignored Kennedy s plea and has continued his efforts to establish his own nuclear deterient France still refuses to allow NATO planes to stock pile nuclear wea­pons on her soil, and has now ordered Canada to remove its planes (as she did with the U S A some time ago).

Communist Ideological Conference

As the Tidings goes to press, Russia and Red China are about to hold a series of meetings in Moscow in an endeavour to iron out ideological differences within the Communist bloc It does not look too hopeful, however, inasmuch as just a few days ago, Russia deported five Chinese Communists for distributing an attack on Premier Khrushchev’s leadership of the world Communist movement As these words are being typed, we are on the eve of the proposed talks, but the radio newscaster has just mentioned that Red China has made no announcement of the embarkment of her delegation to Russia, while Russia has made no public notice that preparations for the peace talks had been made .