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The CPS Story: An Illustrated History of Civilian Public Service

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The work of the Church of the Brethren, Friends, and Mennonites during World War II is documented here in this book about conscientious objectors. Great strides were made in many of the fields in which they worked during the war. The coverage of the progress in mental health alone is of great historical value. An excellent reference guide for any church or public library.

During World War I, the American government had not known how to deal with conscientious objectors, who for religious or philosophical reasons would not support any war for any reason. Many of the "conchies" were mistreated, and some were even killed. As the involvement of the U.S. in World War II loomed, the Historic Peace Churches (the Mennonite Church, the Amish, the Hutterites, the Quakers, and the Church of the Brethren) moved to convince the government that it would be worthwhile to offer COs an alternative to violating their beliefs or spending the duration in prison. From the untiring labor of these men was born the Civilian Public Service, in which many young men served their country through peaceful means.

This book is the story of the CPS, from its inception, through the struggle to get it accepted by the U.S. government, to its service and lasting results. Complete with many wonderful black-and-white pictures, and a great deal of data, this book gives the reader an excellent understanding of the CPS. I found the information and stories contained in it to be quite touching, and I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in non-violence.