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ARTICLE VII CHANGING TIMES - EARLY 20TH CENTURY
In the years prior to World War I there was much sympathy in the churches for working out ways through negotiation and arbitration to settle international differences.
War was abhorent, and many church members boldly stood up for pac i f i sm.
However, when the United States officially entered the war in 1917 much of this sentiment faded, and	in	general	it	was considered
that only the unpatriotic refused	to	fight.
The war was costly in lives and resources but it also heralded a new period in world history.
The many changes brought about in technology, manufacturing and transportation, created by the war effort, fashioned a very different society, especially for the Western nations directly involved. It is true that major wars usually bring about great social changes for both sides.
The churches which now make up United Methodism	were like	other de-
nominations in expressing their loyalty.
Patriotic sermons were delivered, Liberty Bonds were sold in some churches and the war effort was supported in many	ways.
It may have been natural,	but regrettable nevertheless,	that	a	wave
of anti-German sentiment brought some threats and insults against German Methodists, the United Brethren and Evangelicals. No matter how loyal, they were subject at times to abuse because of their German ancestry.
The Treaty of Versailles brought an end to World War I and churches could turn their energies	in other directions.
One of the growing social	concerns was temperance	and this	was	given
high priority. Large amounts of literature were printed and distributed. Societies formed and members were asked to abstain from alcoholic beverages.
Aided by strong campaigns, prohibition became law in 1920. It was not repealed until 1933.
To this day, United Methodism encourages abstinence from alcoholic? beverage s.
Doctrinal disputes in this period came about when liberal Protestant theology was challenged by a militant Fundamentalism which accused it of undermining the very essence of the Christian message.
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