Anzac Reflections: A Personal and Ecclesiastical Response

Hosted by the National Centre for Peace & Conflict Studies

War forces decision, decisions have consequences, and consequences form the warp and weft of history as disparate threads are woven together to form recognisable patterns. In this talk, Bill Wiser will trace the trajectory of his father and one of his uncles as they navigated the reality of universal conscription in the United States during the Second World War. On the eve of another Anzac Day, it is fitting to honour those who have served in uniform as well as those who chose to adhere to their conscientious objection to war. Bringing the topic into the present, Bill will explore a current ecclesiastical expression of church community that strives to eliminate the causes of war through its commitment to peace, a commitment that as recently as WW1 cost individual lives.

Bio

Bill Wiser is a pastor and chaplain who, with his wife, Grace, has served in the aftermath of natural and human disasters in Australia and South Korea. His father joined the Civilian Public Service as a conscientious objector during WW2, ending that chapter in federal prison; one of Bill’s uncles fought his way across Europe during the final months of the war with the 353^rd Regiment of the 89^th Infantry Division of General Paton’s Third Army. Bill’s personal connection with veterans of the Vietnam War led him to visit US troops in Saudi Arabia just prior to the outbreak of the Gulf War. While a vocal advocate for peace, Bill carries a deep respect for those who serve in uniform.

Bill Wiser and his wife, Grace, are visiting from Upstate New York. They have been involved in pastoring, chaplaincy, and volunteer work, as well as ecumenical initiatives and publishing. They are members of the Bruderhof Communities.

Further details about the event can be found on the poster, available via the adjacent Download button.