PAX was formed in 1936 by a group of individuals who sought peace by practical application of Christian ethics, believing that modern warfare could no longer meet 'just war' criteria. It was inter-denominational though it had a strong Catholic focus. Close links were developed with other peace groups including the Anglican Pacifist Fellowship and the Fellowship of Reconciliation. The work of the Group during World War 2 included offering help to Catholic conscientious objectors. The influence of Eric Gill, the third Chairman of the group from 1938 to his death in 1940, broadened the group's concerns to cover Christian unity, anti-industrialism and social justice, although a minority of members were strongly opposed to these changes. Membership declined post-war, although the group continued to publish, but revived later in opposition to atomic weapons. In 1971, the group merged with international Catholic peace group, Pax Christi. This collection of photocopies of PAX and Pax Christi documents was created by Mr Hardisty to assist in his research for his undergraduate dissertation.
From the guide to the The David Hardisty PAX Collection, 1936-1977, (University of Bradford)
