General Conference Bulletin, vol. 7
Departmental Meetings
W. A. Spicer, C. P. Bollman, C. C. Crisler, T. E. Bowen, H. E. Rogers, J. N. Anderson
EDUCATIONAL DEPARTMENT
Seventh Meeting
The seventh meeting of the Educational Department was held at 4:30 P. M., May 30. By special request, Professor Van Kirk introduced a recommendation to refer back to the committee on plans that part of their report which pertains to normal work, and to the committee on normal standards their entire report for revision. It was so voted. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.8
In lieu of a report by the committee to formulate a plan for increasing the efficiency of our Bible teaching, W. W. Prescott discussed the topic before the assembly for twenty minutes. The following are some of the valuable thoughts presented: GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.9
Make the whole Bible teach the message outlined as a syllabus in the prophetic utterance. This does not mean the repeating of a formula, nor even employing the exact words of the prophecy. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.10
Give the specific message its proper historical setting. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.11
Avoid the charge of misapplying a message in point of time by the teaching upon the principle that when like conditions arise, the same message is as much due as at the time when it was originally given. The wheel of history turns round and round again, and distinct cycles may be found in the sacred record. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.12
Follow, not the arbitrary divisions of secular history, but the divisions by natural epoch, as indicated in the Bible itself not by centuries, but by generations. The whole Bible is the story of the reign of sin, and of the complete restoration of the kingdom of heaven. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.13
The first and last qualification of the Bible teacher is to know the Bible. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.14
Elder Daniells followed with a discussion of the same topic: GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.15
Make better provision for preparation of teachers, and better provision for students to study. Let our Bible teachers be given their summer vacation for study and research. Let them remain here in Takoma Park this summer, and work on a well regulated program, including time in the national and city libraries. Let them study in detail every phase of Bible teaching in our colleges and academies, and return fresh from their work to their schools at their opening. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.16
Make better provision for students by enlarging and strengthening our libraries for Bible study. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.17
These measures will help to bring new life and impetus into our Bible teaching, and make the Bible class in reality the most interesting and influential one in the school. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.18
C. Sorenson presented the report of the committee on Bible courses, accompanied by an outline of Bible work from grades nine to sixteen. It was voted to refer this report back to the committee, for further study of certain features. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.19
Eight Meeting
The eighth meeting of the Educational Department was held at 8 A. M., June 2. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.20
The Committee on Normal Standards submitted its report, which had been referred back to it at its request, for certain minor revisions. The revised report was then adopted. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.21
The Committee on Plans gave a further partial report, the following being among the recommendations: GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.22
That a normal institute of eight weeks, under the direction of the Department of Education, be arranged to follow the joint convention of educators and Missionary Volunteers to be held in 1914. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.23
That this institute be composed of the normal directors in our union conference training schools, and of educators appointed by the Department of Education who have shown special ability in developing certain subjects of Christian education along normal lines. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.24
That one year of normal training be offered to mature students who have finished ten grades of academic work or its equivalent, such students to be recommended to the union conferences as worthy of a first grade certificate for church school work. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.25
That critic teachers for the normal schools hold life certificates based on the normal course, and that directors of normal departments have two years of literary work in advance of that required for life certificates. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.26
That these requirements be effective beginning with Sept. 1, 1916. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.27
That the college library contain at least five hundred volumes on various lines of pedagogy and methods. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.28
That the normal department be provided with sufficient apparatus for the nature, manual training, and other methods classes. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.29
That two committees be appointed by the general department to report to the convention of 1914, one of these to suggest a definite list of library books, the other to suggest necessary normal equipment and apparatus, both these committees to report through the standing committees on libraries and on science equipment. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.30
A little time was then taken to discuss items from the question box, as follows: GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.31
Question. Should a student who uses tobacco be retained in the school? GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.32
The general import of the answer was to the effect that when a boy shows signs of improvement, and of a desire to break away from the habit, and when his influence is not detrimental to others, he be retained, and patiently labored for till he gains the victory. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.33
Ques. How should the term “baccalaureate” be used in our schools? GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.34
Correctly used, this term applies only to sermons or exercises connected with the conferring of degrees. By a wider, looser use, especially in newspaper practise, it is usurped to apply to closing exercises of the secondary school. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.35
Ques. Why are degrees left off the faculty page in our schools that grant degrees? GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.36
The discussion brought out the following points: GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.37
The practise of omitting the degrees from the faculty page probably originated in certain extreme attempts of reform. It seems inconsistent to confer these degrees in our various colleges, and yet not print them in the college calendars, where, more than anywhere else, they would seem to be in place. Moreover, students from our schools entering other schools, have had difficulty in obtaining proper credits, owing to the omission of degrees from the calendars. Furthermore the practise of recording the degrees might make for higher standards of work. Oftentimes, especially in the case of our Bible teachers, experience in the field and wide reading may be the equivalent of the degree. Might it not be well to give, in our calendars, a brief statement of the experience and previous work of the various heads of departments? The use of the degree might mean more general recognition of our schools in foreign lands. While we are not to draw our standards from the world in any wrong sense, we should not lose sight of the fact that the chief aim of our schools is to prepare students to go out into the world, and help save the world. Therefore, we should do every right thing in our school work to command the respect of those for whom we labor. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.38
Ninth Meeting
On request, a memorial to the general department, in behalf of foreign mission bands, was introduced by Prof. L. L. Caviness. It was voted to receive the memorial and place it with the committee on plans for study and recommendation. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.39
The report of the committee on college standards was read by its chairman, Prof. W. E. Howell. On motion to adopt, Prof. O. J. Graf led in the discussion, emphasizing the value of standards in our educational work, and offering cautions to be observed in their application. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.40
The consideration of the report item by item was then taken up. The three fundamental propositions and recommendation I of the technical standards were adopted. Recommendation 2 was discussed at some length by Professors Cady, Derby, Johnson, and Howell. As an outcome, it was voted that the chairman appoint a committee of five to draft a recommendation on the spiritual qualifications of college teachers. Professors Cady, Irwin, Lewis, Lamson, and Howell were named as this committee. GCB June 8, 1913, page 317.41
SABBATH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
Seventeenth Meeting
(Concluded)
MISS TILLIE BARR, of Detroit, Mich., continued the discussion on the relation of the conference Sabbath school secretary to the local schools and to the General Conference Sabbath School Department, in a very helpful way. She said: “While the minister or other conference worker is interested in a general way in the Sabbath school, it is the conference Sabbath school secretary who is vitally interested in every phase of Sabbath school work. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.1
“There are many ways in which this relation with the schools may be strengthened and made closer. Visiting the schools is one of the most important ways, but this is not always possible where the schools are many and the secretary is tied down with other duties. Correspondence is always possible, and should be used to the fullest extent. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.2
“The general Sabbath school secretary is the connecting link between the local schools and the General Conference Sabbath School Department. Let the general department lay plans, however carefully, for the advancement and furthermore of the work, if the conference secretary is slow or indifferent about passing along these plans, the results come far short of what they might be. We cannot expect the local school to show any enthusiasm in any enterprise unless the conference Sabbath school secretary is genuinely enthusiastic and passes it on to the schools.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.3
Topic: “Methods of Increasing the General Interest in Sabbath School Work.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.4
Miss Edith Shepard, of Chicago, read a very helpful paper. It is planned to print this in full in the Sabbath School Worker as soon as possible, hence no summary is attempted here. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.5
Eighteenth Meeting
Topic: “The Conference Sabbath School Secretary.” Ways of Working: Correspondence, Visiting schools. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.6
Miss Terese Barrett, of Nova Scotia, led out in the presentation of the subject of the correspondence that a secretary should do. She spoke of the necessity of writing encouraging letters, of studying carefully each quarter’s report, and making it the basis of helpful correspondence. “Always write as if to a friend. The value of circular letters may be increased by writing the names in the letters. Write a good long letter once in a while. The home department work must be kept up almost entirely by correspondence. If the isolated mother is too busy to reply, ask her to have the children write. Such correspondence can be made exceedingly helpful. Let them tell their troubles, and sympathize with them all you can. In receipting for money, do not merely use a blank, but write a message of cheer to send along with it.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.7
Elder G. B. Thompson: Some people think that a letter has no influence. Did you ever try saying cross, mean things in a letter? If you ever do, you will soon find that it carries a tremendous influence. Just so does a letter full of good things carry an influence with it. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.8
M. F. Knox, Nashville, Tenn.: When I write a circular letter, I pick out some one with whom I am well acquainted, and dictate the letter to that one. It is then duplicated, and sent out to others. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.9
Mrs. J. L. McElhany, of Washington, D. C., read a paper on “The Work of the Secretary in Visiting Schools.” She said in part: GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.10
“The conference Sabbath school secretary who visits regularly the schools in her conference has a great advantage over the one who must keep in touch with them through correspondence only. To acquaint herself with the work of the schools in all its phases, it is necessary to visit and become personally acquainted with the officers and their methods. To see for herself the working of the various schools in the conference, is worth more than any information or any data that could be written her. A definite impression is stamped on her mind, and, later, when she visits each school, she will know wherein advice, counsel, and instruction are necessary. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.11
PHOTO-Main office Pacific Press Publishing Association, Mountain View, Cal.
As the secretary comes in touch with the officers of the different schools, she learns how to offer suggestions tactfully, and how to make each officer realize that he bears an important part in the great Sabbath school system. The sympathy that springs from intimately knowing the schools and their officers, is much deeper than that which comes from acquaintance by mail; and, as this is felt by those in charge of the school, the superintendent and his workers will feel that they have a friend in the conference secretary, and will more readily cooperate with her in making the school what it should be. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.12
PUBLISHING DEPARTMENT
Twenty-First and Twenty-Second Meetings
“Three great blessings have come to us through the scholarship plan,” said H. R. Salisbury in his talk on “How Can Our Schools Best Cooperate in the Preparation of Colporteurs?” “They are first, the financial help to our schools, because of bringing students who have money; second, through it we have had students who can work the year around; third, by this plan the canvassing work has been put where it belongs as a part of our great educational system.” “The influence of a scholarship student is an encouragement, and usually better than the influence of a student that comes in on his own responsibility.” On the point of cooperation, Professor Salisbury said: “Of course we are going to support it. Selfishly, because it is sending into our schools at the present time some of the best students we have. Unselfishly, because it is sending the most spiritual and energetic students into God’s great harvest field. Cooperation is not to say that we appreciate this work; it is not in saying, ‘It is a heaven born work,’ but we must so shape our school work that the leaders in the canvassing work may have our very best hours, and every help we can give them, in securing and training workers at our schools.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.13
Twenty Third Meeting
“How Should the Work of Our Colporteurs be Followed Up?” was the principal topic of the Friday afternoon session. Brother George M. Brown, of Cuba, and C. F. Wilcox, of the Review and Herald Publishing Association, read papers, in which many excellent suggestions were made. The discussion which followed emphasized the importance of the colporteur taking the names and addresses of persons who evidence an interest in our work, and passing them on to the tract society secretary. In several sections of the United States, blanks are being used for this purpose with good results. While missionary and tract society secretaries have followed up these names in some instances, it was the consensus of opinion that such work would better be done by our lay members, thus linking the work of the church with the work of the colporteur. The use of the Signs of the Times in this follow-up work was found very satisfactory. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.14
Residence work, in which the colporteur goes over the same territory time and again, was recommended by several speakers, and interesting experiences were related, emphasizing the fact that this class of work is not only the best follow-up system so far as soul saving is concerned, but is equally satisfactory from a book selling standpoint. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.15
Farewell Meeting
At the final meeting of the Publishing Department, at 1:45 P. M., on the Sabbath, June 7, men and women bearing responsibility in the publishing work from far and near mingled their voices in words of gratitude to God for the blessings, strength, and inspiration gained during this series of meetings. The determination to push the battle with more earnestness than ever before was expressed again and again. GCB June 8, 1913, page 318.16
The testimony meeting was preceded by a short talk by L. R. Conradi, who referred to the blessings of liberty enjoyed in this country. He said that word has just come that censure has been passed on several of our publications in Russia, among them the children’s paper, and other publications from which the believers in Russia gain strength. But Elder Conradi said they expect God to assist them through this, as through all other difficulties. He referred with courage to the progress the truth is making in those countries, and looks forward to victory. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.1
One feature of this meeting especially impressive was the testimonies given by several who in past years have succeeded in the canvassing work, and now are reentering it. Another feature of interest is that several go from this meeting to far-away fields to work: W. R. Nelson goes to India; A. G. Nelson, to Patagonia; others, to China, Cuba, the Philippines, and other places. On the point of the needs in foreign fields, H. H. Hall made a most earnest appeal that all our leaders ever keep these fields in mind, and do all in their power to furnish workers for them. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.2
In closing, N. Z. Town read the following promises. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.3
“There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I swear unto their fathers to give them.” “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest.” Joshua 1:5, 6, 9. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.4
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY DEPARTMENT
Fifteenth Meeting
Opening prayer by W. F. Martin. Topic, “Religious Liberty and Protestant Literature: Its Preparation and Circulation.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.5
Papers were read by F. M. Wilcox and D. W. Reavis, in which was set forth the practical rather than theoretical side of the religious liberty movement, as the following quotations will show:— GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.6
“Since the invention of movable type, the printed page has played an important part in the promotion of every great movement. Through the publication of books, pamphlets, and leaflets, the minds of the people have been educated and favorably inclined for or against the various questions under discussion. As never before in earth’s history, the value of literature in the propaganda of every cause is recognized today. In our general work as a denomination, we have long appreciated its value. The direct and indirect results arising from the circulation of Christian literature only eternity will reveal. It can be sent even where the living messenger cannot go. In fact, we find scores of instances where the printed page preceded the minister of the Word; and by its influence in the community prepared the hearts of the people for the favorable reception of the gospel seed. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.7
“In the way of literature dealing with general topics, we are reasonably well supplied. There is, however, a growing demand for special literature to carry forward the special Protestant propaganda which this department is established to promote, and which forms an integral part of our general forward movement. We believe that early steps should be taken to provide an earnest, aggressive, wide-awake, and well-balanced literature, dealing with the principles of Christian and civil liberty, sounding the warning against the encroachments of the Roman hierarchy, and presenting to the people in place of the errors of the Roman Church the blessed truth of God and the principles involved. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.8
“We are glad indeed that we have, as exponents of these principles, and as the organs of the department, Liberty and the Protestant Magazine, the latter of which has recently been made a monthly journal.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.9
“In addition to our large and more expensive literature, such as Protestant, Liberty, “State Papers,” and other books and pamphlets, we should have a series of appropriate small tracts which could be sold to our people very cheap—tracts that can be scattered like the autumn leaves, at a cost to our people that will be so small they cannot resist the temptation to buy them for free circulation. We have felt this need for years, and a number of times have resolved to provide it; but it has not yet appeared. Now, its need being so apparent, and the ways and means for its production having been more particularly worked cut, we hope this general council will provide for its early appearance. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.10
“This literature is to be cheap only in price. It should not carry the publishing house and tract society commissions. It should go from the press to the people at the actual cost of production, or less. Our publishing houses and tract societies can well afford to make this line of literature a truly missionary work; for it will not only hold the ‘four winds’ for a season, but will do more in creating a demand for other literature than any other one thing we now know of. With a good assortment of cheap literature, it will be a comparatively small task to organize our people for its circulation. A steady stream can be flowing out at all times, and on special occasions it may be put out in large quantities. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.11
“Some time ago it was planned to gather up the fragments of editions of good Protestant and religious liberty books now out of print, and to reprint some of the best of them, not only for the general trade, but for the use of our workers in studying these important present-day issues. This plan seems to have taken a vacation; but in my humble judgment it ought to be carried out at an early date, and these much-needed publications again put into circulation. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.12
“We have hardly touched the circulation of ‘American State Papers’ with the tips of our fingers; yet it is a book that should be in the possession of every man who has anything to do with the making or the enforcing of our laws. Some arrangement should be made whereby a large edition of this book could be printed, and a fifty-per-cent commission given to those who sell it. Putting it upon its present rating is to insure its failure in so far as its circulation is concerned.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.13
A committee of two was appointed to bring before the Publishing Department such recommendations as would provide for law-priced tracts, the placing of the book “American State Papers” on the fifty-per-cent-commission basis, and the other matters pertaining to the topic under consideration. These recommendations to be then passed on to the North American Division Conference committee on plans and resolutions. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.14
DELEGATION VISITS THE PRESIDENT
The delegation appointed by the Conference to present an engrossed address to the President of the United States visited him at the White House Thursday, June 5. In presenting the address, J. O. Corliss said:— GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.15
MR. PRESIDENT: I have the honor, sir, on behalf of this deputation representing the World’s Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, to present to you the greetings of that people now assembled at Takoma Park, in this city. Delegates from the world’s nations have there gathered in quadrennial session to consider the vital interests of gospel work GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.16
We are not unmindful, Mr. President, of the fact that the powers that be are ordained of God, with certain limitations. We are therefore glad to array ourselves on the side of religious freedom as exemplified in the teachings of Dr. Witherspoon, one of your honored predecessors, of Princeton University, who tutored Madison, Mason, and others, in the American principle of total separation of church and state. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.17
Be assured that our sympathies and best wishes are with you in the discharge of the important duties of your high office. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.18
Copy of Letter Presented
WASHINGTON, D. C., June 5, 1913
To the Honorable Woodrow Wilson President of the United States— GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.19
From the World’s Conference of Seventh-day Adventists now in session in this city, we have the honor to bring to you the greetings of our people. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.20
As Christians, we are endeavoring to extend the blessings of the gospel throughout the world. We maintain that God and his Word are supreme in all things spiritual, recognize civil government as of divine ordinance, and honor all in authority. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.21
We believe in the American principle of total separation of church and state, and honor the names of Washington, Jefferson, Madison, and others of your illustrious predecessors who have stood for the great principles of civil and religious liberty. We, therefore, oppose all religious legislation; and, while conscientiously observing the Sabbath ourselves, disapprove of enforcing Sabbath observance by civil enactment. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.22
We wish you health and success in all your efforts for the peace, prosperity, and welfare of this and other nations, and pray God that you may be enabled faithfully to uphold the principles of religious freedom as taught by Mr. Witherspoon, the honored president of Princeton University, and the founders of the great American republic; defended by the Presbytery of Hanover, of Virginia; and later guaranteed by the constitution of the United States. GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.23
A. G. DANIELLS, Chairman;
W. A. SPICER, Secretary.
In response to this greeting, the President very cordially and with feeling replied, “I thank you most sincerely for the greetings from your people.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 319.24
SABBATH DAY AT THE CAMP
The fourth and last Sabbath at the General Conference encampment was marked by a spirit of rejoicing and hope—rejoicing over manifold evidences of God’s loving favor, and hope of the speedy finishing of the work to which the laborers will soon be returning. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.1
All through the three weeks and more that the delegates and visiting brethren and sisters have been assembled, much time has been devoted to seeking God, and to a study of his Word, and many victories have been gained. The faith of ministers and laymen has been confirmed as they have reviewed the evidences of Bible truth that make us a peculiar people. And as from morning to morning the campers have met in sections, and have endeavored to make sure work for eternity, the peace of God has filled many a troubled heart, until it seems as if well-nigh all in attendance have gained rich personal experiences, and enlarged freedom in Christ. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.2
In view of the continuous and thorough work that has been done from the first day of the meeting to the present time, it is not surprising that the Sabbath morning consecration and praise services were reported to be the best that have been held thus far. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.3
The Sabbath-school met, as usual, in sections. Close attention was given to those who led out in the lesson study. A full report of the various divisions of the school, with statistical summary, will appear in our next issue. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.4
The hour for the preaching service was filled by Elder Daniells, who reminded the brethren and sisters of their privilege to be confident in God. He reviewed the blessings bestowed, and urged all to cherish ever a spirit of courage and hopefulness. Although perplexities may increase, and temptations may press sore, yet there is help in One mighty to deliver, and as we go forth from this meeting to many parts of the earth, we may go with full assurance that the Divine Presence will be our companion and our stay. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.5
Elder Daniells’ sermon will appear in full in our next issue. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.6
The greater portion of the afternoon was filled with a praise service, in which many missionaries took part. A tender spirit prevailed throughout. Love for God and for his people, love for souls in far-away lands waiting for the light of the gospel, love so strong and so constant that all things else are being sacrificed to the one work of proclaiming the Advent message to all the world in this generation—this is the love that was revealed in the faces and words of these missionaries, and this love melted the hearts of the hearers. Such meetings cannot be fully reported; but much that was said has been recorded, and will be passed on to our churches very soon. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.7
In the meetings of the closing Sabbath day, our brethren and sisters remaining in their various fields of labor and in their home churches, were often mentioned. Earnest prayers were offered in behalf of the faithful believers who have sent their greetings to the General Conference, and by whose united prayers the brethren in session have been helped to draw nearer to God and to plan wisely for the advancement of his cause in the earth. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.8
In a report of the seventeenth session of the General Conference, held in Battle Creek, Mich., thirty-five years ago, we read the following stirring words:— GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.9
“The presence of our missionaries from Europe [J. N. Andrews, from Switzerland, and D. T. Bourdeau, from France], and brethren from distant parts of our own land, as Oregon, California, Texas, Alabama, Virginia, and almost every Northern State from Maine to Nebraska, gave the greatest interest to the occasion—as good an illustration as we may perhaps ever expect to see this side the reality, of that time when the servants of God shall come from the east and the west, the north and the south, and shall sit down together in the kingdom of their Father.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.10
“At times during the meeting, the Spirit of God moved with power upon the congregation. On several occasions from two hundred to three hundred went forward for prayers. Hearts were not only convicted but converted.”—The Review and Herald, October 17, 1878. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.11
Those were days when the brethren in leading responsibility advanced with strong faith. “When we take a view of the past, the present, and the future,” wrote Elder James White, in 1877, less than three years after the first missionary had been sent out from the home land, “as far as we can look forward through the prophetic word, we are impressed that God has been leading in the preparation for our great work, and that we are now entering upon it in its length and breadth.”—Idem., June 7, 1877. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.12
Some of those in attendance at the 1878 General Conference were present at this Sabbath afternoon missionary service to bear testimony to their gratitude to God for sparing them to witness the triumphant progress of his cause in these closing days of the message, when multiplying evidences of the nearness of our Saviour’s second advent are bringing joy to thousands of hearts. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.13
In the language of the late Elder Uriah Smith, in an editorial concerning the spirit of the twenty-sixth session of the General Conference held in 1887, we can declare as we near the close of the thirty-third session:— GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.14
“The feeling prevails that God is good and gracious; that he has a care for his cause and his people; and that, if we go forward in faith and consecration, believing his word and trusting his promises, a speedy and certain victory awaits the glorious message in which we are engaged.”—Idem, Dec. 6, 1887. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.15
A SPLENDID GIFT FOR LOMA LINDA
June 5, 7:30 P. M.
The raising of sixteen thousand dollars for the finishing of the hospital at Loma Linda was the task set before the congregation assembled on Thursday evening in the pavilion. Elder I. H. Evans led out with a direct and pointed appeal to face the solemn responsibilities laid upon us by our belief in the third angel’s message. Elder Daniells followed with a brief statement of the urgent need for the hospital, and after him came Elder G. I. Butler, whose text was, We can do it tonight if we want to. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.16
It was quickly manifest that a good many wanted to; for when the call for hundred-dollar pledges was made, a large number responded, most of them ministers, and missionaries on furlough. There was also a hearty response to the call for fifty- and twenty-five-dollar gifts, and nearly eleven thousand dollars was contributed in this way. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.17
Then a missionary offered a leopard skin brought back from Africa, and some one purchased it for fifty dollars. This reminded another missionary that he had a leopard skin in his trunk. He soon had it out, and it realized a good price. Another missionary had a skin at home, and this was sold for a hundred dollars. Conference men pledged sums on behalf of churches, conferences and unions, until the sixteen-thousand-dollar mark was passed. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.18
Elder Daniells offered to stop, but the meeting wanted to go on. At last a cash collection was taken, and it was announced that the sum realized was between seventeen and eighteen thousand dollars. All hearts were full of joy, and Loma Linda got its request in full. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.19
The meeting closed at 10:45. GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.20
THE GLORY DAWN
[Sung by Brethren Washburn, Harris, Lowry, and Maxwell at the Conference, and published by request. Words by J. S. Washburn.] GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.21
I am waiting for the morning bright,
When the Lord from heaven, from heaven come;
I am watching for the blessed light
Of that glorious day to dawn.
GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.22
CHORUS:
I shall see the glory dawn
When the Lord from heaven shall come,
When the Lord shall come.
GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.23
Deepest darkness covers all the earth,
Tempests wild now rage on sea and land.
Lord, the floods of evil overflow;
Save me by thy mighty hand.
GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.24
In the secret of thy presence, Lord,
From all evil thou dost shelter me.
I am resting on thy faithful word
Till thy glory dawns o’er me.
GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.25
Hark! The triumph of God now calls the dead
From their graves who sleep in earth and sea.
They shall wake, and with us meet the Lord,
With him thus shall ever be.
GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.26
[To be sung to the music in “The Gospel Male Choir,” No. 100. The Gospel Publishing Co., 5418 Cedar Ave., Philadelphia, Pa.] GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.27
A CORRECTION
On page 131, column 2, under subhead “Publishing Work,” line 7, for “Spanish” read “Swedish.” GCB June 8, 1913, page 320.28