because the solemn conviction has come to them that war is un-Christian, destructive and murderous. It is estimated that where the noncombatant life was advocated in this country by thousands, before the war, the same principle is now being espoused and fostered by millions, since the war.
Two years after the meeting of the Mennonite General Conference at Yellow Creek, at which time steps were taken looking after the interests of young brethren during the War, this same body met in regular session at Harrisonburg, Virginia, August 27-29, 1919. At this meeting the following paper was drawn up and adopted:
OUR POSITION ON PEACE
An Expression of Gratitude
We, the Mennonites of United States, Canada, and India, in General Conference assembled near Harrisonburg, Va., August 27-29, 1919, express our gratitude to our Heavenly Father "who maketh wars to cease unto the ends of the earth," that peace has again returned to the warring nations with which we are identified, and that during the trying times of the past few years since we last met in session near Goshen, Ind., August 29, 30, 1917, He has kept us in His loving care and given us grace to preserve our testimony of peace to the world.
We further wish to express our sincere gratitude to those in authority who paused in the midst of pressing cares and duties to give ear to our appeals and by recognizing our petitions made it possible for us to engage in pursuits consistent with our faith.
A Statement of the Doctrine of Peace
As followers of Christ we believe His Gospel to be a Gospel of peace. "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you" (John 1427). "But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them
