Approach - Vol 1 No 01 - 1958 04

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROACH
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: April, 1958
Publisher: Sagittarius Publishers, Pretoria, South Africa
Editor: Edgar Sievers

This inaugural issue of APPROACH, a monthly review subtitled 'Man in Life and Space,' sets forth its mission as a non-profit, Peace and Brotherhood Programme publication. It aims to foster a cosmic perspective, encourage understanding, and promote positive thinking as a means to solve humanity's troubles.

This New Venture

The editorial, 'THIS NEW VENTURE,' outlines the magazine's foundational beliefs: that humanity is one form among many Divine Creations, and that 'Brothers' from other stars are visiting Earth with the intention of awakening humanity to its true origin and purpose. The publication declares its commitment to presenting this 'cosmic science and universal wisdom' to counter the 'darker courses in Earth Man's history.' It acknowledges that this stance may be perceived as bold or premature but asserts its dedication to this task, emphasizing a compassionate understanding for all.

George Adamski Vindicated

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to 'GEORGE ADAMSKI, LONE FIGHTER FOR TRUTH, VINDICATED.' The article details how George Adamski's claims about contact with space visitors are gaining traction, citing a letter from the US Department of State as a crucial piece of evidence. The letter, while personal, suggests that official policy regarding UFOs has been heavily criticized and that the Department has its own files corroborating Adamski's accounts. The article traces historical references to 'cosmic men' and flying craft from ancient scriptures to modern sightings, including Kenneth Arnold's 1947 observation and Adamski's 1952 encounter with a Venusian in a desert. The author argues that the State Department's implicit acknowledgment signifies a potential shift in official policy, preparing the public for a fuller disclosure.

Space Ship Field News

This section provides brief reports on recent UFO sightings. A notable event was a 'big, fiery, round object' seen by at least 12 people in Durban, South Africa. The Rand-Johannesburg area also reported sightings of 1 to 3 scout ships over successive nights, with one estimated to be traveling at 2,000 mph.

The Peace and Brotherhood Programme

This section elaborates on the 'Peace and Brotherhood Programme,' described as a free spiritual movement, non-sectarian and non-political, instigated by 'Brothers from space' and George Adamski. It comprises individuals who believe in calmness, positive thinking, and serving others. The Programme aims to help individuals achieve understanding and agreement to solve global problems. It emphasizes that all people are 'Children of the One Creator' and encourages cooperation and a cosmic perspective to bring peace and brotherhood. The Programme's ideas are summarized in three points: working for peace and brotherhood, fostering links with interplanetary visitors, and assisting individuals in self-understanding and personal growth.

Meeting the Visitors

George Adamski recounts a meeting with space visitors from six planets (Venus, Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Neptune, and Uranus). He reports their warning about nations stockpiling armaments, which could lead to their own destruction. The visitors noted that while they have helped prevent 'cold wars,' the increasing commercial system and human greed make their work difficult. They also expressed uncertainty about humanity's commitment to peace due to indifference and greed. Adamski concludes that the visitors stated humanity is at a point where it must decide between peace and destruction, and that cooperation is key to saving lives and achieving a harmonious world.

A Point, a Theme and my Angle

This column addresses reader inquiries and discusses ongoing projects. The editor mentions a new book by George Adamski on 'Cosmic Science' and the upcoming release of booklets containing 100 Questions and Answers about space people. A Course in Telepathy is also in preparation. The editor notes delays in his own book, 'Flying Saucer über Südafrika,' due to ongoing research and revisions. A brief mention is made of Lou Zinsstag's letter to Vice-President Nixon urging official admission of space craft.

Chatting on Features, Plans and Policies

This section outlines the magazine's structure and future content. APPROACH is supported by people across Africa, aiming to provide a bold analysis and cosmic outlook. Regular features will include GA's letters, articles on current events, universal teachings, and 'Night Session Dialogue' to answer reader questions. The magazine intends to cover 'World Affairs' broadly and provide 'Space Ship Field News' with a focus on occupants rather than just sightings. The 'Africa Region Liaison Group' will feature local news. A 'Book Review' section is planned, and upcoming issues promise 'material of explosive nature,' including a discussion on Dr. Lobsang Rampa and an analysis of C. G. Jung's book, 'The Modern Myth,' which questions the reality of flying saucers.

Africa Region Liaison Group

This section reports on the diverse readership of APPROACH across Africa and the potential for editions in Afrikaans and German. It highlights a planned expedition by H. Duncan Abraham and Mirabel Rogers to cross Africa by water. The group's perspective is described as detached, viewing humanity's divisions and power structures from an outer-space viewpoint, suggesting that the current civilization's 'playing time' is nearing its end.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the acknowledgment and exploration of extraterrestrial contact, the promotion of peace and universal brotherhood, and a critique of current societal and governmental policies that hinder progress. The editorial stance is one of openness to these new ideas, advocating for a shift in human consciousness towards a cosmic perspective and cooperation, while also acknowledging the controversial nature of the subject matter and the resistance it faces.