p. 16 | Protestantism and Romanism by C. E. Holmes

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 5, 1914

Protestantism and Romanism

By C. E. Holmes

Uniting

SIGNS of the times indicate that the image of the beast is rapidly being formed in this country. The making of this image is primarily the work of apostate Protestantism. As it becomes more and more like its model, Protestants come to be more and more in harmony with the principles and purposes of the papal power.

Protestants oppose Rome, but it is a feeble opposition. There are reasons for this weakness on their part. Protestants want civil recognition and protection for certain of their religious beliefs. Catholics are strong in numbers and organization, and they are also committed to the principle of the union of church and state; thus Rome becomes a ready and powerful ally in the securing of all demands of this character.

A recent development illustrating this combination of forces, is seen in the demand by the churches for an increase in the number of navy chaplains. Both Catholics and Protestants indorse government support of chaplains, though it is a distinct departure from the principles incorporated in the First Amendment to the federal Constitution.

The secretary of the Federal Council of the Churches of Christ in America has sent out an official statement, under date of Jan. 21, 1914. This is termed "important, for immediate publication." The name of Henry K. Carroll, associate secretary, Washington, D. C., who was recently appointed by the Federal Council to locate in the city and maintain a Protestant lobby, is seen upon the letterhead.

The thirty-one Protestant denominations forming the Federal Council may individually repudiate Romanism in a general way; they may oppose certain of its dogmas; but when a matter of common interest and desire is sought, they will readily join hands with their enemy to secure it. In his circular letter the secretary says:—

"Protestant and Roman Catholic forces are united in the effort to obtain additional chaplains for the United States Navy, and at the recent hearing before the House Committee on Naval Affairs at Washington a delegation of religious leaders was led by Rev. Charles S. Macfarland, secretary of the Federal Council, and Rev. L. J. O'Hern, representing Cardinal Gibbons and the Roman Catholic archbishops, in support of a measure adopted by the Federal Council which provides for a chaplain on each battleship."

The secretary further recommends:—

"The chairman of the House Committee on Naval Affairs is Lemuel P. Padgett, of Tennessee; and the chairman of the Senate Committee is B. R. Tillman, of South Carolina; and it would greatly strengthen the situation if the pastors and members of the churches would communicate with them in support of the measure."

There are now three Sunday bills before Congress. These are favored by both Catholics and Protestants. It will be only a question of time when Sunday will be especially protected by civil law. This will be brought about through the influence of this same combination of religious forces. Seventh-day Adventists have long been looking for this time, which will open up the last great epoch for God's people. Now is the opportune moment to labor. True principles of gospel and civil liberty must be given to the people.

Secretary Macfarland realizes that their measure can be strengthened by petitions and letters. For years we have known that such work has had a wholesome influence upon those of our lawmakers who have been appealed to in favor of religious liberty. Shall we not continue to send in the petitions sent out by our various departments?

C. E. HOLMES.