WORDS OF HIS HOLINESS PIUS XII
TO A GROUP OF THE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE*

Wednesay, 8 October 1947

An Armed Services Committee of a legislative body is a happy augury. It suggests a mutual dependence that is very healthy. Law and order may at times have need of the strong arm of force. Some enemies of justice can be brought to terms only by force. But force should be held always in check by law and order and be exercised only in their defence. Nor is any man law unto himself.

If that principle were everywhere accepted and acted on, there would be a greater sense of security among peoples today.

So We greet the honourable legislators and the distinguished. members of the armed forces. May God's blessing be upon your friendly cooperation for the greater good of your own beloved country and of the entire world. We pray Him also to bless you and all who are near and dear to you.

*Discorsi e Radiomessaggi di Sua Santità Pio XII, IX,
 Nono anno di Pontificato, 2 marzo 1947- 1° marzo 1948, p. 275
 Tipografia Poliglotta Vaticana.