One visiting the seventy-seven branches of the German-Austrian Mission today, divided as it is into thirteen districts with a membership of nearly eight thousand, would be forcefully struck with the measurable completeness of the various organizations. One may almost forget that one is only in the branches of the Church seven thousand miles from headquarters, and many have the sense of being in the well-officered wards and stakes at home.

All of the districts are presided over by local brethren, most of them having two counselors and a clerk. These presiding officers operate much as the presidencies of stakes do. They meet frequently for counsel. They administer their affairs in justice and with efficiency.

Seventy of the seventy-seven branches are presided over by local brethren, seven by missionaries. Nearly all of these branch presidents have counselors and clerks and operate about as bishops do in the wards of the Church. They are assisted by a body of Priesthood who are conscious of the responsibilities their calling requires of them. In the main they are very faithful and devoted and they set an example in their communities.

In the average branch, all of the various auxiliary organizations also function. In the larger branches, as well as here and there in the smaller ones, there are also English classes, dramatic associations, glee clubs, orchestras, all striving toward one purpose: to enrich the spiritual welfare of the Saints and friends and to make contacts with those who may be interested in the Gospel of the Master.

. . .

There is no visitor to Germany today but who is impressed with the development of the nation, physically. Perhaps there has been nothing like it since the days of ancient Sparta. But what of the spiritual? That is the challenge to the churches! Are they meeting that challenge?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is trying to do so, trying to supply that spiritual strength which will not only supplement the tremendous physical development going on, but control, regulate, and guide it to the credit of the individual and of the society in which he moves.

How is it being done?

Disinterested in politics, but tremendously interested in life and life's happiness, the missionaries and members of the Church ceaselessly carry their message of cheer and hope to everyone who is willing in the least measure to listen.

. . .

Some months ago, two humble Elders were transferred to the city of Gera. Half afraid of the police with whom they registered, one showed his basketball proclivities as he spoke in broken German. The officer saw in him an opportunity to have basketball taught to his fellow workers and perhaps make some preparation for the Olympics. Basketball was scarcely known at that time in Gera. As a result, two or three basketball teams were organized among the city's young officers and sportsmen. The missionaries, during the time they were not engaged in tracting, visiting friends, and holding meetings, instructed and coached these teams.

. . .

Last summer, two other missionaries spent six weeks in an athletic training camp of one hundred sixtyfive university students teaching them basketball, the Word of Wisdom and "The Way of Life" as Mormonism teaches it. They made friendships that will never be forgotten. It is known that some of these students have spoken favorably in various parts of the Reich of the Mormon missionaries with whom they became acquainted.

. . .

The magnificent city of Berlin was a veritable bee-hive of activity, preparing for the Olympic games. Its four and one-half million people united as one to prove to the world that they are one. Along the traffic avenues to and from the most perfect stadium in which the Olympic games have ever been held is a Mormon exhibition of the Word of Wisdom, and of Mormon doctrines. It is hoped by this exhibit to impress those who come from distant parts of the earth with the ideals that lift and inspire all who observe them to the upper levels of living.

. . .

Not with projectile and bomb, with trench and fort, is the greatest "Watch on the Rhine" being kept; but in cheerful hearts and kindly acts toward fellow men; by a message of eternal hope, a way of life that meets the needs of the now and the "to be." This "Watch" is being kept for the great German people by a humble, earnest people and their friends. It is the defense against evil and destruction. Preserved by a kind Providence, it is the one that will endure.