s a contradiction of terms, and the
statement that 'religion is a private matter' is a lie. The belief
in a supreme being or beings is a social phenomenon which can be
explained on the materialistic basis, just as all economic
phenomena can be explained. With persistent adherence to honesty,
the convention adopted a resolution and a constitutional amendment
declaring religion to be a social phenomenon and instructing all
organizers and speakers to explain religion upon its materialistic
basis.

"Here again, the Socialist Party of Michigan issued a direct
challenge to the National Organization. This time it is not a
challenge in regard to tactics, but we challenge the honesty of the
National Organization in declaring that 'religion is a private
matter.'"

Now listen to the words of Eugene V. Debs, published on the editorial
page of "The Call," New York, July 21, 1919, and see what a fraud and
hypocrite the leader of the Socialists of the United States is:

"If you have not already done so, read the platform of the
Socialist Party, and then let us know what you find in it to
warrant the lying charge of the sleek and fat leeches and parasites
and their degenerates, tools and hirelings that Socialism is
atheism and free-love(?) and that it will tear up the family by the
roots, smash up the home and turn society into a raging bedlam."

Sufficient evidence has now been given to prove that the Socialists are
the declared enemies of the church. They are conspiring to destroy an
institution which, apart from the supernatural blessings that it has
conferred upon mankind, has done wonders to promote the happiness of
nations. To the church many countries owe their civilization and their
conversion from heathenism. She has preserved for us the priceless
treasures of art and learning that would otherwise have fallen a prey to
the ravages of the barbarians. For centuries she has trained untold
millions to observe the Commandments of God, and has thus been
instrumental in the prevention of innumerable crimes and sins from which
the human race would have suffered. Not only has she taught the people
the virtues of charity, justice, temperance, humility, liberality,
purity, meekness and forgiveness of enemies, and been a source of
immense consolation to the poor and oppressed, the sick and the injured,
but she has comforted millions of the d