"I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the church- "When they saw the star, es. I am the root and the they' rejoiced with exceed- offspring of David, AND the bright and morning ing great joy." star."—Revelation 22:16. —St. Matthew 2:10.

Vol. 3 No. 3 GRABILL, INDIANA December 15, 1945 The Truth Shall Make CHRISTMAS You Free By Elder Ernest Graf, Sr., Akron, Ohio (John 8:32) CHRISTMAS is the festival on the Prophets foretold the coming of To know the truth is not always as which we celebrate the birth of the Messias. Thus He was expected simple as it sounds. Our own opin- Christ. It is of all birthdays the most by the people of Israel; and kings and ions the not always the truth. Pilate important, because it means that a prophets had hoped to see His day, the governor already wondered of the Saviour and Redeemer was born unto but died without seeing it. And as it Saviour, "What is truth?" The Sav- mankind. Sin had entered the world had been prophesied that He would iour has told the people before, "I am when our first parents were induced be born of a virgin, many a pious the way, the truth, and the life." John by the craftiness and deception of woman in Israel secretly hoped that 14:6. The' most important part is Satan to disregard the commandment she might be the chosen one of God. then, that we acecpt the Saviour as of God, and ever since then all chil- Prior to the birth of Christ, for about our teacher as He has promised that dren of men were born with a sinful 400 years, there was almost no proph- through His spirit He would lead us ecy, because the people had forsaken into all truth and righteousness, pro- God and turned unto idols. Even viding we stay open-minded and as TREASURED VERSES the priesthood was corrupt, and wor- recorded by the apostle in James 3: St. Luke 2:12-14 ship consisted of formalities and cere- 17, "But the wisdom that, is from monies. In the Holiest of Holies, "And this SHALL BE a sign unto you: where formerly a light as a great and above is first pure, then peaceable, Ye shall find the babe wrapped in gentle, and easy to be intreated, full swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. shining eye stood over the cherubims of mercy and good fruits, without and the ark of God's covenant, this "And suddenly there was with the light shone no more, proving the dis- partiality, and without hypocrisy." angel a multitude of the heavenly host If the truth of all matters that con- praising God, and saying, pleasure of God, tLeir Lord. front us were at all times diligently But now the fullness of time had "Glory to God in the highest, and arrived in which God fulfilled His sought for this could truly be a beaur on earth peace, good will toward men." tiful time that we are now living in, promises. First we read how unto the kind of a time that the angels also Zacharias and Elizabeth was born a see the possibility and desire to look son, John the Baptist, who was to pre- into I Peter 1:12. We are now living and rebellious nature. It is written pare the way of the Lord. Before John in the time of Grace, in which the that to be carnally minded is enmity was born, an angel appeared unto a Lord is willing to give the opportu- toward God, yet God wished to be- virgin Mary, of the house of David, nity yet unto as many as search for friend man again and restore him un- announcing to her that she was cho- the truth, to become His children and to harmony with Him. He told Ad- sen of God to become the mother of heirs of the promise. These facts and am and Eve that from their seed He His only begotten son. Although this truth can be revealed most .quick- would jraise up One who would crush Christ had been with His Father in ly unto friends if they become humble the head of the serpent. Moses also heaven as the Son of God, he was al- as the Saviour states in Matt. 11:25, said to Israel, "The Lord thy God will so to put on flesh and blood and be- "I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heav- raise up unto thee a Prophet from the come the Son of man, thus uniting en and earth, because Thou hast hid midst of thee, of thy brethren, like the two natures in one body, so that fliese things from the wise and pru- . unto me; unto Him ye shall hearken." He might be able in the body to suf- (.Continued on page 3) Deut. 18:15. David also, and many of fer and atone for the sin of mankind, THE SILVER LINING

Saint Luke tells us that in the reign But how soon did persecution be- cepting this precious gift unto our of Caesar Augustus a decree went out gin' Joseph and Mary were obliged soul's salvation. that all the world should be taxed or to take the child and flee into Egypt, To me Christmas will always be a registered. Instead of the census tak- when Herod sought His life and had day of blessed memory, because on er going from house to house as is the all male children under two years Christmas day in the year 1889 I was case today, everyone was summoned slain in Bethlehem. Though He had baptized into Christ. After a period of to the city of their birth. So Mary, been looked for, yet when He came sorrow and contrition I was permitted r.nd Joseph her espoused husband, al- unto His own, they received Him not; to enter into the covenant of grace and so went up from Galilee to the city of but as many as received Him, to them peace with God. Now we cannot all David which is called Bethlehem. He gave power to -become the be baptized on Christmas day, but Having no room in the inn, they had children of the Most High. no matter at what time of the year to be content to rest in a stable. And now, how shall we receive it may be, very child of God can on There, in poverty and lowliness, Jesus Him, and how shall we celebrate this day renew the promises that he was born, and Mary wrapped Him in this day? By dedicating to Him our will be faithful unto death, even as swaddling clothes and laid Him in a soul and body, and proving our love He was faithful unto the death on the manger. Had it been God's will, He by obeying Him who gave His life cross. And those who are yet unrec- could have caused His Son to be born and shed His blood on Calvary, that onciled should remember the debt of in a palace in grandeur, with angels to we might have life, and have it more love which they owe unto Him, and wait upon Him. But in the humble abundantly. So many celebrate the say, "Here, Lord, is my heart." surroundings of Jesus' birth we have day by feasting and exchanging pres- Although the birth of Christ was a lesson in lowliness and humility: ents, thinking of little else. But let cause for great rejoicing, let us re- that we should not strive after high us remember that Jesus came to bring member that His death and resur- things, but condescend to men of low the heavenly bread to the hungry, rection is our hope of eternal life. estate. And who was first to be ap- 'Tis not the babe, but Christ the man prised of the Saviour's birth? The Who walked in Galilee; lowly shepherds, keeping guard over 'Tis not the manger, but the Cross their flocks by night. An angel of the We wish our readers a joyous Christ- That sets the spirit free. Lord appeared unto them and brought mas, Be not content this babe to know, the good tidings of great joy, that on A New Year bright and iair. Nor stay at Bethlehem, And a warm "God bless you" But go with Christ to Calvary's brow, that day a Saviour was born, which is Beyond Jerusalem. Christ, the Lord. And suddenly there To leave you in His care. 'Tis there men learn to know the Christ, was with the angel a multitude of the THE SILVER LINING STAFF. For there He bore man's sin, heavenly host, praising God and Then open wide the door of your heart, saying, "Glory to God in the highest, And let the Saviour in. and on earth peace, good will toward living water to the thirsty, and light men." Luke 12:14. They went and When shadows lengthen into night, found it even as the angel had told to those who dwelt in darkness. He And quiet falls the pale twilight. them. Also three wise men or kings became poor that we might become Our cares of day grow strangely dim, were led by a star to Bethlehem. It rich in God. The peace on earth which the angels Our hearts at ease commune with is said that they had come on camel- Him. back from three different parts of the proclaimed is not an outward peace, earth, having received testimony as there has been much strife and And things we have not understood, from God that they should go forth to many bloody wars since then, for the We leave with God, for God is good. see the promised Messiah. They were prince of darkness still has his work Submitted by Marie Beery, led together in a desert place,, far in the children of unbelief. But to Rittman, Ohio. from any human habitation. There the true believer the inward peace has they told each other what God had come. Through repentance, faith and revealed to them. And as they had baptism and new birth has transform- ATTENTION FOR CHANGE OF been told to look for a star to guide ed us from sinners to children of God, ADDRESSES: them, suddenly they beheld the star and being justified by faith, we have If you have a change in your address above them, and as it moved, they peace with God through our Lord (civilian or serviceman) please let us Jesus Christ. know immediately. This will help us to get now followed it to Bethlehem, where the Silver Lining to you more quickly. If they also found the child and worship- God's children also love their en- you are in the service and returning home, ped it. Thus did God announce to the emies, and being endowed with the let us. know and we will send your copy world the'birth of His son; and when spirit of Christ, they strive to be at to your home. Will everyone co-operate on the eighth day Jesus was brought peace with all men. The good will with us? Anyone wishing to receive the Silver to the temple, there did Simeon and of God toward man was manifested Lining write and adddress to-: Anna, moved by the Holy Spirit, testi- in sending His Son upon 'earth to seek The Silver Lining, fy that this was in truth the Saviour and save that which was lost. And- Grabill, Indiana, and Redeemer of the world. we can manifest our good will by ac- (Editor's Note.) THE SILVER LINING

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Christmastide ^ ,.. THE TRUTH SHALL MAKE YOU FREE I am taking this opportunity in Is your life so crowded this Christmastide, (Continued from page 1) writing my sincere thanks to all the That you cruelly turn the dear Lord aside dent, and hast revealed them unto ones who are taking part in publish- From the door of your heart, as they did babes." And unto those that have al- ing the Silver Lining. It certainly that night ready through the truth been made is very interesting to read and is al- When at Bethlehem's inn, Joseph told their free. He has promised His grace that so very much appreciated. Yes, in- plight? they may have His support all the deed so! I am receiving it very regu- days of their life. larly and promptly. It's certainly a They little knew that down the years How quick-ly would Satan have to very kind precious deed which you Would be told their answer and oft with depart from us when we are in trials Dear Ones are doing for us service- tears; and difficulties if we would instantly men in foreign lands. So may it be There was no room, save a cattle stall search out the full truth of a matter, God's will that we one and all can In a lowly stable,—yes, that was all. and seek to understand both sides meet each other again back on the of the case at hand. How would this Homeland of the United States of Is your life crowded with sin and shame, enemy of our souls have to flee from America. Yes, the Red, White and That you have no room for the One who us in utter shame if we would at all Blue which has brought us peace and came times come at him with the full victory. As we have experienced, God To give you peace at the Christmastide, weight of the truth even as the Sav- is the Giver of all good and perfect If within your heart He may now abide? iour did after He had been led into gifts. He is the Ruler of this whole If you give Him room there will ever be the wilderness, there to be tried by world. So may He protect and pro- Glad rejoicing throughout eternity. the enemy, who was only to be met vide for us one and all. May He keep For the Christmas Babe is God's Holy Son with the truth on every hand. Satan, us in His loving and tender care. Sgt. And through Him alone is the victory won. could not endure truth very long, as E. R. Schwartz, Paris France. he soon had to- depart from Him and then we read "Angels came and minis- inform you that after this month I tered unto Him." (Matt. 4:11.) . ." . I wish to express my sincere expect to be back home again so it is How did this beloved disciple of thanks for your paper, "The Silver not necessary to send it anymore but Jesus, St. John value truth so' high- Lining," which was made possible would like to have you continue send- ly! In his writings he referred to it for us through your efforts. I've re- ing it to my home address "if it's pos- so often. What is it then that we can ceived it for some time now and as sible. My home address is Bluffton, wish each other that is more precious soon as I've read it through I pass it Indiana, Route 4. I'm sure my wife than the. truth? And what is it that on to the other brethren in faith who will enjoy reading it as much as I do. concerns and grieves a true Christian are near me here. We all enjoy it I hope to meet every member of the more than when he has to occasional- very much. We have access to no oth- staff sometime in person.- Robert ly see and know that Satan has had er paper that is as complete in spir- Aschliman, Tokyo, Japan. his way in preventing the truth from itual thoughts and news of our having its full course? May we there- churches and people. . . . Thanks fore for the benefit of all ever support again for the paper . . . Perry Zim- I have been getting the "Silver Lin- the truth with all that is within our merman, India. ing" for some time in the past and I power. am always glad to see it come. ... I wish to take this time to com- Arthur D. Gasser, Sterling, Ohio. mend all of you on the staff I wish to thank you ever so much for this fine inspiring work as for sending me the Silver Lining fcr GEMS the past year. I have enjoyed reading it has been an inspiration to me. Possibly the "Silver Lining" will Study the Bible to be wise; believe it through. I find it very helpful for be some spiritual inspiration to oth- it to be safe; practice it to be holy. I am deaf. Keep up with your good ers who travel in the darkness of this work and may the Dear Lord bless you and all for your active part in the time where it seems so few seek Be patient with the faults of others; Silver Lining. Merry Christmas to you after the more worth while things in they have to be patient with yours. life. It seems good to read news of all. Elizabeth Feldman. * * * familiar names at the different The first steps toward happiness are churches. Leroy Huber, Tokyo, Japan. the Church steps. * * * I have been receiving your fine pa- per fairly regular and once more wish ... I received the September issue It is not Christmas without Christ. to thank each and everyone for the a few days ago and was I glad to get * * * splendid work which you are doing it! I sure do enjoy reading the paper. Many accept the Christ of the cross, and for sending it to me. I wish to . . . Harold N. Luthi, Tinian Island. but reject the cross" of the Christ. THE SILVER LINING Thomasville, Georgia. He was dis- charged at Camp Atterbury, Ind., Oct. NEWS 10, 1945. He is the husband of Helen Lt. Gaylord Widner plans to leave visited with S-Sgt. David Frautschi Klopfenstein Maxfield. for his new assignment at Randolph at Crile General Hospital, Cleveland, M-Sgt. Donald Bollier, son of Mr. Field, Texas, on December 4. Ohio on Thanksgiving. and Mrs. John Bollier received his Lt. Richard Lantz writes that he is Our discharged servicemen are in- honorable discharge, Sept. 8, 1945 aft- on a L. S. T. and is leaving Okinawa creasing in number. At present they er serving nearly five years in the U. for Japan. are Wayne Lantz, Orange Wade Max- S. Army Air Forces. He enlisted Oct. field, Russel Steiglitz, Henry Kipfer, 5, 1940 and was first stationed at Pat- Ens. Edward G. Souder will be Ted Bahr, Arthur Blume, Don Bol- home on leave in December. He will terson Field, Dayton, Ohio. He was then go to San Diego, California for lier, Arthur Hassig, William Klop- later transferred to Chanute Field, fenstein and Raymond Pulfer. Illinois where he received his train- his assignment. Sgt. John J. Bollier has arrived in ing and was graduated fromAirplane Elder and Mrs. Emil Schubert, Rev. Alaska where he will service planes Mechanics School, Oct. 24, 1941. and Mrs. Michael Weyeneth, Mr. this winter for cold flight tests. Then he was stationed at Selfridge, Chris Hoerr, Sr., Mr. and Mrs. Chris Rev. and Mrs. Henry Souder of Field, Michigan until March 17-, 1942 Hoerr, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Samuel D. when he left for overseas duty. He Getz, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Leman vis- Bremen, Indiana visited the Leo church, Sunday, Nov. llth. served as an aerial engineer and flight ited the Leo Church and had dinner chief in the India-China Air Trans- A number of teachers and young at the home of Elias Souders. port Command until Feb. 17, 1944. The Frank Widner family, Mr. and people of the Bremen Sunday School He held the Air Metal and the Pres- . Mrs. Aaron Klopfenstein and Mrs. were our guests, Sunday, Nov. llth. idential Unit Citation. After his re- J. M. Klopfenstein were dinner guests We thank them for their inspirational turn to the States, he was stationed at at the home of David Lantz on No- contributions to our program. Lone Field, Dallas, Texas, where he vember 29. We welcome these men home. We served as line chief and flight engi- The Ramas J. Schlatter family vis- are glad to have them in our circle neer until the time of his discharge. ited the Milford Church on Thanks- again. Roanoke, Illinois giving and were dinner guests at the Wayne E. Lantz S 2-c, son of Mr. home of Rev. Theo. Beer. On November 16, Rev. Phillip Bey- and Mrs. David Lantz, entered the er and Rev. Harvey Virkler of Crog- Donald Schlatter has finished his Navy, April 7, 1944 and received his first term at Manchester College, han, New York visited the Roanoke Boot Training at U. S. Naval Training Church. North Manchester, Indiana. Station, Great Lakes, Illinois. He was Misses Joan and Mary Ellen Gude- then sent to Camp Bradford, Norfolk, Many of our boys with discharges man, from Wolcott, Indiana, were Va. A few weeks later he was trans- are home again. They are Milton and among the dinner guests at the home ferred to Solomons, Washington D. C., Walter Leman, Elmer Rocke, Wil- of Vernon Klopfenstein on Sunday, where he was assigned to U. S. S. mer Blunier, Dave Leman, Arthur Leman, Howard Souder, Chas. Kup- November 4. L. C. T. as signalman. After about perschmidt, and Elmer Aeschliman. Mrs. Mildred Schlatter and family, three months of sea duty he was send Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Norr and family, to a hospital at Portsmouth, Va. After Miss Lois Martin, daughter of Mr. and Mr. and Mrs. Vic Stavenick and spending ten weeks in the hospital, he and Mrs. William Martin, of Eureka [family spent Thanksgiving at the was discharged Dec. 22, 1944. and Ben Belsley of Morton were mar- ried on November 25, 1945. home of Roy Wysong, Crestline, Ohio. Lt. O. W. Maxfleld entered the Rev. Sam Aeschliman of Bluffton William Klopfenstein Jr., returned Army as Aviation Cadet, September and Rev. John Daper of Maywood, home after four and one-half years in 25, 1942 at Ft. Thomas, Ky. He receiv- service. He was overseas eighteen Calif., spent Sunday, November 25 at ed his Army Basic Training at Kessler Roanoke. months. At this writing he and his Field, Mississippi. After receiving his mother are visiting Glenn Klopfen- college training at demon, .South Taylor, Missouri stein of Southington, Connecticut. Carolina, he was sent to Nashville, Pvt. Wilbur Wiegand returned to Frank Klopfenstein was taken home Tenn., where he was classified for Ft. Lewis, Washington after spend- from the hospital and is improving. Pilot's Training. Then he received ing a fifteen-day furlough at home. Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Frank of Fort his pre-flight at Maxwell Field, Ala- Mr. and Mrs. Edward Butikofer an- Wayne are now residents of Leo, Ind. bama, Primary at Helena, Arkansas, nounced the arrrival of a son, Gary The Misses Marie and Ruth Beery basic flying at Greenville, Mississippi, Edward, November 9, 1945. and advanced flying at Napire, Ala- of Rittman, Ohio, are spending the Rudy Hoerr has undergone an ap- week end with the J. J. Conrad fam- bama where he received his wings and was commissioned 2nd Lt., Dec. 23, 19- pendectomy and is now at home con- valescing. iiy. 44. Albert Frautschi, Herman Conrad, Miss Naomi Sutter, James and Ger- and Misses Percy and Adella Conrad Then he received his transition at THE SILVER LINING

aid Sutter spent November 17 and 18 nounce the arrival of a daughter, Ja- Manila and Russell Wuethrich who is in Oakville, Iowa visiting friends and net Louise, on November 8. at Camp Crowder. They are sons of relatives. Mr. and Mrs. Ben Schlatter En- Mr. and Mrs. Albert Wuethrich of nounce the arrival of a son, Lawrence Bloomfield. Bluffton, Indiana Larry Keith, on November 6. Emil E. Metzger received a medical Sgt. Everett Geisel, S-Sgt. Raymond discharge, and his brother, Silas, .L. Levy, and S-Sgt. Sam Schladen- Remington, Indiana is in the army in Texas. They are hauffen arrived in the states, Novem- Mr. and Mrs. Henry Roth of Kiowa, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Metzger of ber 7, after serving four and one-half Kansas, Mr. and Mrs. Don Roth, Lena Whittemore. years with the 38th division. The last and Louise Roth of Fairbury visited Elmer Banwart, son of Mr. and twenty-two months were served over- in Remington on November 4. Mrs. Paul Banwart of West Bend, seas in Hawaii, New Guinea, and the On November 14, Miss Clara Beck- received a medical discharge, and his Philippines. All three men were hon- ley of Remington became the bride of brother, Edwin, is now stationed in orably discharged at Camp Atter- Mr. Emanuel Zohner, Rockville, Con- Reno, Nevada. bury and have returned to civilian necticut. Mr. Zohner was recently dis- The navy is further represented by life. charged from the Army after four Harvey, Kenneth and Philip Ban- Lt. Raymond E. Reineck has been years of service here and in Europe. . wart, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph discharged from the Air Corps after Mr. and Mrs. Zohner will make their Banwart of Elgin, Illinois, who also two and one-half years' service. He home in Connecticut. have a son, Cathmere, who was for- was a P-47 Pilot. At the present time On November 11, visitors in Rem- merly in the navy, and two sons-in- Raymond is studying Engineering at ington included Mr. and Mrs. Wal- law, Bennie Jones, recently a pris- Purdue University. A younger broth- ter Zohner, Russell Bahler of Connec- oner of war in Germany and Robert er, Dale, is now serving with the ticut, Edmund Kloter and Edward Winters. occupation forces in Germany. His Zohner both in the Army are station- address is as follows: Pvt. Dale L. ed in Virginia and Missouri respect- Francesville, Indiana Reineck 35991838, Inf. Co. B. 1st Plat., ively. Lt. John W. Wuethrich has been A. P. O. 21416, New York, N. Y. Rev. and Mrs. John Bahler, Rev. reverted in inactive status from the Mr. and Mrs. Harry Isch, of Villa and Mrs. Ernest Luginbuhl, Mr. and Army Air Corps. John entered the North, are the parents of a daughter, Mrs. Paul Lanz and Adolph Lanz, of service in March, 1941. He returned Ann Catherine, born November 25. Connecticut visited at Remington, here from Catham Field, Savannah, November 19, 20, 21. Church services Ga. His wife and daughter have been Toledo, Qhio were held here the evening of the living in Chicago. John is a son, of We welcome three of our Toledo 19th. Rev. Sam Aeschlimen of Bluff- Mrs. Mary E. Wuethrich, of Fran- boys back to the United States. T-Sgt. ton, Rev. Ezra Feller and other visit- cesville. David J. Frautschi is back from Eu- ors from Cissna Park were present. Pfc. Virgil Von Tobel arrived home rope and is now at Crile General Hos- West Bend, Iowa November 9, having received an hon- pital, Cleveland, Ohio. Eugene Fetter orable discharge at Camp Atterbury, has also returned from Europe and West Bend, Iowa, Pastor, 17 grand- Virgil was sent to the Southwest has been discharged from the Army. children in service. Rev. Banwart, 81 Pacific from Southern France. He Richard Bowers has returned from years old, pastor of the Apostolic entered the service in June, 1941, and the Pacific and discharged from the Christian church, has 17 grandsons has been overseas 18 months. Navy. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bowers serving their country, or who have Pvt. Harry Von Tobel arrived home are now on a trip to California. (Mrs. served in World War II. Bowers is the former Thelma Stev- from the ETO, where he spent 23 Reuben Banwart and George Pul- months. Harry • entered the service in ens.) ford, son and son-in-law of Mr. and August, 1942, and received his dis- Mr. and Mrs Ralph Troxel and son Mrs. Ed Banwert of Detroit, Minn., charge at Camp' Atterbury. of Bluffton, Indiana visited relatives served in the army and navy, res- in Toledo for a week. pectively. Lt. and Mrs. Eugene Von Tobel Rev. Harvey Virkler of Croghan, arrived home from Santa Ann, Cali- Glenn Banwart served in the Ger- fornia. Eugene has been in the Serv- New York, visited friends in Toledo man occupation drive, and Floyd is on November 16. ice 38 months and was reverted in in- overseas with the army in Luzon. active status Tuesday, October 23. On November 18, Mr. and Mrs. Sam They are sons of Mr. and Mrs. Nathan They are sons of Mr. and Mrs. P. J. Ka'ehr and daughters, Bonnie and Ann Banwart of West Bend, Iowa. Marie, and son, Phillip, from Bluffton, Von Tobel, Sr. Indiana, Mr, and Mrs. Noah Gerber Archie Banwart is in Japan, and T/Sgt. Robert Pfledderer arrived and daughter, Bernice and son, Bob, of Alvin Banwart is in Texas. Both home from ETO, having received an Fort Wayne, Indiana visited friends are sons of Silas Banwart, also of honorable discharge from the Army and relatives in Toledo. West Bend. at Camp Atterbury. Bob has been in Mr. and Mrs. Walter Rehklau an- Robert Wuethrich is overseas in (Continued on page 7) 6 THE SILVER LINING AMERICAN BIBLE SOCIETY COM- Bible Reading in Public Schools "Memories of Father" FLEXES ITS 5TH YEAR OF WAR Back in the days of the thirteen EMERGENCY WORK Our tho'ts oft turn to days in past original colonies wherever there was 'Ere Dear Dad from us was taken; The American Bible Society has a church there was a school. And May we believe, "The Lord knows best," distributed 8,213,070 copies of Bibles, everywhere the chief textbook of the Lest our faith in Him be shaken. Testaments, and Portions of the Bible schools was the Bible. It is plain his- A sturdy man with health was blessed to the Army, Navy and Merchant tory to say that the public-school But sickness struck and left him weak; Marine during a five-year period that systems of our land originated as Enduring pain, sore distressed ended June 30, 1945. Bible schools. Yet ne'er a cross word did he speak. More than five and a half million In the public schools of America to- Pleurisy was the first to impart copies of the special edition of the day the reading of the Bible is a mat- Its sharp and piercing pain. Next pneumonia, then the heart New Testament, stream-lined to fit ter on which each of the 48 states With endocarditis all aid was vain. the blouse pocket, were requested makes its own ruling. over the years by the chaplains for Many complications did appear The American Bible Society, in a Fear of death e'er increasing; direct distribution to the men who recent survey, finds that Bible read- expressed an interest in the books. The Doctor, too, began to fear ing in the public schools is required Daily reports were displeasing. Like bread upon the waters one of in 11 states, prohibited by 4 states these books has come home to the and in the remaining 33 it is permit- Growing weaker from day to day Dad knew life's end was near; Bible House. The little brown volume ted although not required. "I'm just nothing," he oft did say is musty, the pages are bent and piec- Furnished by the courtesy of the Amer- But of death he had no fear. es of dirt still cling to the leaves. ican Bible Society. "This book brought us through," is Said the Doctor, " 'Tis a matter of days, the story of two G.I.'s, Eugene J. His suffering soon shall end." Our pleas and prayers to God did raise Pehsal and Samuel B. Reichard, who Daily prayers lessen daily cares. His Mercy Angel,to send. were cut off from their battalion in an attack against Nazi positions, and Tho' Dad this earth no more shall trod forced to hide in a fox-hole a week, Great comfort to us is given; Hymn For the Month That if we daily seek our God before they were able to work their We shall meet again, in Heaven. : way back to the American lines. The It Came Upon the Midnight Clear Written in memory of Samuel Braker, who food gave out the first day. From It came upon the midnight clear, was called from, this life, June 29, 1945. then on there was only the drifting That glorious song of old, From angels bending near the earth snow, which provided drink, and the REASON AND FAITH comforting presence of the little To touch their harps of gold,; "Peace on the earth, good will to men. Faith and Reason may be compared book, which they took turns in read- From heav'n's all gracious King;" ing. The world in solemn stillness lay to two travellers; Faith is like a man To hear the angels sing. in full health, who can walk his twen- Although the Society's major ac- ty or thirty miles at a time without tivities in the war effort are now Still thro' the cloven skies they come suffering; Reason is like a child who concentrated in the Pacific, a recent With peaceful wings, unfurled, can only, with difficulty, accomplish And1 still their heav'nly music floats request from the U.S. Maritime Serv- O'er all the weary world; three or four miles. "Well," says the ice Training Station in St. Peters- Above its sad and lowly plains writer, "on a given day Reason says burg,. Florida, for 5,000 copies of the They bend on hov'ring wing, to Faith, 'O good Faith, let me walk New Testament was filled. This, the And ever o'er its Babel sounds with thee.' Faith replies,. 'O Reason, Society considers a real opportunity The blessed angels sing. thou canst never walk with me!' as the merchant ships carry no chap- Yet with the woes of sin and strife However, they try to walk together, lains and no attempt can be made to The world hath suffered long; but they soon find it hard to keep provide religious facilities. Beneath the angel strain have rolled company." Two thousand years of wrong; From the office of the Comman- And man, at war with man, hears not When they came to a deep river, dant of the Twelfth Naval District, The words of peace they bring! Reason says, "I can never ford that San Francisco, has come the request O hush the noise, ye men of strife, stream," but Faith says nothing and And hear the angels sing! for 10,000 New Testaments and 2,000 wades through it singing. When they Bibles monthly. "The demand for For lo! the days are hast'ning on reach a lofty mountain, there is 'the New Testaments via this office is in- By prophet bards foretold1, same exclamation of despair; and in creasing," the society has been noti- When with the evercircling years such cases, Faith, in order not to> leave fied. "Chaplains out in the fighting Comes round the age of gold; Reason behind, is obliged to carry When peace shall over all the earth him on his back; and, adds the writ- areas are relying on us more and Its ancient splendors fling, more to supply their needs prompt- And the whole world send back the song er, "Oh! What a luggage is Reason to ly." Which now the angels sing. Faith!" THE SILVER LINING

NEWS The Old Clay-House (Continued from page 5) the service since July, 1942, and over When I get through with this old clay-house of mine, When no longer, through its windows the beacon lights shine; seas about 17 months. He is the son Just box it up and lay it away of Mr. and Mrs. George Pfledderer. With other clay houses of yesterday. Pfc. and Mrs. Raymond Gutwein Just study this house; No tears should be shed. have returned here from McKinney, It's like any clay-house when the tenant has fled. Texas. Raymond was given a dis- I have lived in this house many days all alone,' charge at the Ashburn General Hos- Just waiting, and Oh, how I long to go home! pital at McKinney, Texas. He recent- ly returned here from the ETO, Don't misunderstand me; this old world divine, With love, birds, flowers and glorious sunshine where he spent 20 months. He is a Is a wonderful place and a wonderful plan; son of Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Gutwein. And a wonderful, wonderful gift to man. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Leman of Pe- oria, 111., visited his parents, Mr. and Yet, somehow we feel when the cycle's complete, There are dear ones gone on whom we are anxious to meet. Mrs. Henry Leman. Arthur received So, when I am through with this Old House of Clay, his discharge Sunday, November 11, Just box it up tight and lay it away. from the Army. He spent 18 months in the Southwest Pacific and was in For the Builder has promised when this house is spent To have one finished with timber I sent the service 27 months. While I lived here in this one. Of course, it will be Mr. and Mrs. Ramos Schlatter and Exactly as I here have builded; you see. children, Donald and Melba Jeanne, Laura Fern Conrad, Mr. and Mrs. It's the kind of material we each send across, And if we build poorly, of course, 'tis our loss. Sam Steiner and daughters, Joan and You ask "What material is best to select?" Ethelyn Schlatter, of Leo, Indiana, 'Twas told you long since by the Great Architect, spent Sunday, November 18, at Francesville, Indiana and were Sun- "A new commandment, I give unto you, That ye love one another, as I have loved you." day dinner guests of Mrs. Mary E. So, the finest material to send up above Wuethrich and family. Is clean, straight-grained timber of Brotherly Love. A son, John W. Ill, was born to Lt. Submitted by REV. OTTO NORR, Grabill, Indiana and Mrs. Wuethrich of Chicago on November 1, 1945. was the son of David and Rose Hoerr. Mr. and Mrs. Herman Stoller of Peoria, Illinois S/Sgt. Clarence Peters who is con- Barrington, Illinois, and Mr. and Mrs. Cpl. Richard Binkele and Sgt. Carl valescing in Percy Jones Hospital at Harold Stoller and son of Cissna Kinsinger are now stationed at Camp Battle Creek, Michigan, was recent- Park, Illinois, spent Sunday with Grant, Illinois. ly home on furlough. Sgt. Peters was their son and brother, Floyd and fam- Pfc. Robert J. Hoerr was assigned wounded in action in Germany. ily. to the hospital ship. Aleda E. Lutz Chicago Rev. and Mrs. Robert Hass of Elgin, is n'ow sailing to the South Pacific Illinois, Nettie Stoller and Alvina Mr. and Mrs. Albert Fisher, and after several voyages to Europe. Gureter of Latty, Ohio, spent Sunday Mr. and Mrs. Ben Hofer spent the of November 11, with friends and Lt. Wade Fehr, Sgt. Robert L. week-end of October 21 with friends relatives of Chicago. Weyeneth and Pfc. Wilbur C. Hoerr in Cissna Park, Illinois. recently enjoyed furloughs after re- Akron Mrs. Ben Hofer spent the week-end turning from overseas. of October 28 with relatives and Rev. and Mrs. Henry Wackerle and Capt. Ralph E. Hoerr, Sgt. Alton friends at Fairbury and Gridley, Il- Mr. and Mrs. Bert Gudeman visited Merkle, Cpl. Harold Thomas, Pfc. linois. Akron, November 1 on their return Clarence Martin, and Pvt. Joe Hoeri from visiting in New York and Con- are discharged from the service and Mrs. Henry Stoller and children necticut. spent Sunday, October 28 in Chicago, enjoying civilian life. Walter Graf received an honorable visiting friends and relatives. Memorial Services, conducted by discharge and is now at home with Reverends Mike Weyeneth and Dan Anna and Louise Stoller attended his parents. Knepp, were held for Lt. Irvin C. the funeral of Ida Keurth of Grid- Rev. Ernest Graff Sr., and Rev. Hoerr on October 14. Lt. Hoerr was ley, Illinois, Sunday, November 4. Godfrey Schlatter of Toledo, Ohio, killed while flying a mission over Floyd Stoller who has spent a num- Mr. and Mrs. Ellsworth Graff, and Northern Italy in a P-47 fighter plane. ber of years with the Navy in the Miss Edith Graff are visiting the Lt. Wade Fehr presented the Ameri- South Pacific is home on a furlough. Eastern Churches during the first can Flag at the services. Lt. Hoerr He will soon receive1 his discharge. week of December. THE SILVER LINING

A Soldier's Prayer ADDRESSES OF OUR BOYS IN Pvt Richard Klopfenstein No. 15328084 THE SERVICE Co. F. 242 Inf. A.P.O. 411 c/o P.M. Dear Lord, I pray watch over me. New York City, N. Y. Help me to fully trust in Thee. Killed in Action: Eugene F. Bahr. To trust Thee, Lord, is all I need, Pic. Joseph Bahr 35540894 Lt. Richard W. Lantz O-2070664 To guide my feet where Thou dost lead. 38th Bomb. Gyp. 822 Bomb. Sqd. The grace and love which Thou hast given T. G. 73 D. 99 me, A.P.O. 551 c/o P.M. A.P.O. 337 c/o Postmaster And Thy precious blood which flowed at New York City, N. Y. Sao Francisco, Calif. Calvary. Hast purified and freed my mind and heart, T-5 David Bertsch No. 35894267 Pfc. Richard H. Murphy O! Lord, I would not ever from Thee part. Med. Det. S.C.U. 1915 18th Seperate Co. 9th M. P. Bn. (Prov.) I Madigan Gen. Hosp. §ec. 5 F.M.F. Pacific c/o F.P.O. 'Tis a comfort, this to know, Tacoma, Washington San Francisco, Calif. That Thou who cares and loves me so. Hast promised never to forsake me, Sgt. John J. Bollier 15374503 Sgt. Albert P. Norr 35151339 Anew, I pledge my faith and love to Thee. C.W.T.D. A.P.O., 938 c/o Postmaster Btry. E. H.D.L.A. And if with talent I am blest, Minneapolis, Minn. Ft. MacArthur Teach me, Lord1, how I may use it best, San Pedro, Calif. There is so much good yet to be dbne, Robert W. Bollier S 1/c Before the battles upon earth are won. U. S. S. Chester T. O'Brien Pvt. Phillip Rizzo 35555551 I D. E. 421 c/o Fleet Post Office G. F. R. C. Pool Thou knowest, Lord, I am far from home, San Francisco, Calif. A. P. O. 129 c/o Postmaster To friends and loved ones my thot's oft New York, N. Y. roam. Sgt. Ted J. Bollier No. 35160227 How oft I wish that I could soon return, Ens. Arthur Wm. Schwartz To the familiar surroundings, for which I Co. A. 264th Eng. Bn. A.P.O. 150 c/o P.M. USS.-L.C.I. (G558) c/o F.P.O. yearn. San Francisco, Calif. But I will not murmur or complain. New York, N. Y. When all my wishing seems in vain. Kilmer H. Drayer F 2/c Lt. Harry R. Schwartz 0554459 For on earth, Joy alternates with woe, Ser. Btry. 804 F. A. Bn. There must be rain, to make a rainbow. 987-79-09 Draft No. 16322 From Shoemaker c/o F.P.O. A.P.O. 932 c/o Postmaster Thy suffering was great at Gethsemane, San Francisco, Calif. San Francisco, Calif. The innocent—a bitter cup was given Thee. And so for the days that lie ahead, Sgt. Louis F. Getz 35764521 Pfc. Lester D. Smith 36421380 A/T Co. 414 Infantry If I have Thee, what have I to dread? (No address at present) Each morning for Thy guidance I will ask. A.P.O. 104 Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif. And for grace to accept and perform each Cpl. Louis Kamlner task. Ens. Edward G. Souder 900th Base Unit (A.A.F. School) Chase Hall, C-36 And when the bright evening star appears Orlando, Fla. May Thy sweet rest, calm all my fears. Navy Supply Corps School T/4 Ephriam Kipfer 35909913 Harvard University Thou hast given me more than my share, Gp. B. Civil Censorship Division Soldiers Field, Of clothing, food, and blessings rare U.SFET (MAIN) . Boston, Mass. Grace and comfort I've often received1, My cares too, have oft been relieved. A.P.O. 757 c/o Postmaster Robert V. Stavenik S 1/c Even at a time, when it most appeared New York, N. Y. Co. B. 538 Navy Pier I'd sail the seas, many trials I feared. Chicago,' Illinois It was not Thy will that I should go. But instead, Thou didst grant a furlough. Lt. Gaylord H. Widner O-2074891 Give me faith for each trying hour, (At home for present) Who can measure Thy love so divine? Let me never doubt Thy love and power. How oft it soothes this heart of mine. Clothe me with the Breastplate of Righteous- It frees from, sin, and answer prayer, ness, Honorably Discharged: Even in war or dark despair. The sword of the spirit let me always pos- Ted Bahr O! let my life be an inspiration. sess. To those in need of Thy salvation. Arthur Blume Let them see that there is no need, And if in a lonely foxhole I must hide, Donald R. Bollier Of sin and war, destruction and greed1. Surrounded by danger on every side. Let me remember the words Thou has Arthur Hassig I pray for those on foreign land, said, Henry O. Kipfer Keep them from harm, stay every evil Foxes have holes, but I have not where to Wm. Klopfenstein hand. lay my head. Unite the rulers in a desire for peace. At'night—tho the smoke-filled flery sky, Wayne E. Lantz Grant from destruction a swift release. May dim the bright stars to the mortal eye. O. W. Maxfield The wounded souls and bodies restore Yet the eye of faith can look up to Thee, Raymond Pulfer Return them safely to theii homeland Thou star of hope—O! shine on me. shores, Russell Stieglitz And to all, who are so dear to their heart, Grant that when this war has been fought, Fill them with joy, that will never de- All will remember the lessons it taught, part. That war and greed for power and fame Can never adorn a Christian's name. THE And now for me the time has come, Grant that I, with willing hands and feet, When I must leave the friendly shores of My mission here on earth complete. SILVER LINING home. Gratefully, I will in Thy promise rest; Published by And embark on a voyage to a foreign land, Knowing that Thy will, Dear Lord, is best. Apostolic Christian Sunday School Oh, keep me, Lord in the palm of Thy By M. E. L. hand, submitted by Mrs. Sam Blunter. Grabill, Indiana