General Conference Bulletin, vol. 6

NINETEENTH MEETING

W. A. Spicer, C. P. Bollman, I. H. Evans, C. M. Snow, T. E. Bowen

May 24, 3 P. M.

L. R. Conradi, chairman. Prayer by Elder H. W. Decker. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.9

The chairman stated that the time was allotted to representatives of the Japan Mission. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.10

REPORTS FROM JAPAN

WASe

F. W. Field, superintendent of the Japan Mission Field, presented the following report:— GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.11

The Japanese Mission GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.12

The past four years have been years of slow but steady progress for our work in Japan. The conditions in the field have not materially changed. The race which Japan is making for a place among the world’s great nations so engrosses the attention of the people that it is difficult to interest them in spiritual things. This is especially true of the people in the centers of population. We find that the more simple-hearted country people are more readily reached with the gospel message. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.13

Our church-membership has increased to about 120, with 4 organized churches; while the scattered Sabbath-keepers number about 20. At the close of last year our native laborers numbered 12, including our 2 ordained ministers, Brethren Okohira and Kuniya, 5 licensed missionaries, and 4 colporteurs or canvassers. Our force of foreign evangelical workers has been increased by the coming of 2 new families. Brethren H. F. Benson and wife came in the summer of 1906, and Brother W. L. Foster and wife arrived last August. This spring Brother Benson plans to locate in Hiroshima, where we have several believers; and this fall Brother Foster will open up the work in the island of Shikoku, with its more than three millions of inhabitants. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.14

EVANGELICAL

In our evangelistic work we have made our first trails at holding tent-meetings. The damp, changeable climate of Japan is hard on tents, and not favorable for camping out. Rain is frequent in spring and summer, so that autumn is the most favorable season for tent-meetings. Our first tent effort was made in a suburb of Tokyo four years ago. The tent-meetings at Takasaki, Maebashi, and Fukushima were preceded by months of labor in the circulation of our literature. The attendance at all these meetings was not large, as the great mass of the people are not accustomed to attending religious meetings, and are quite shy, or else prejudiced against Christianity, or wholly indifferent. Still, a number became interested as a result of these efforts, and several accepted the truth at each place. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.15

MEDICAL WORK

The medical work in Kobe has been continued along the same lines as formerly, with a good degree of patronage and encouraging results. Two years ago Dr. Lockwood retired from the field on account of his wife’s health, and Dr. W. C. Dunscombe has since had charge of the Kobe Sanitarium. The patronage of this institution has continued good, and it has gained many warm friends, especially among the missionaries. But in our plans, to be mentioned later, for establishing permanent headquarters for our work, it was decided to close the Kobe Sanitarium; and this was done the last of February, this year. When the institution was closed, it had on hand in cash about $750, besides all its equipment and furnishings, a considerable part of which had been paid for out of the earnings. The institution has paid all expenses, and salaries of workers, out of its earnings, except the physician’s salary. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.16

The Eisei-in, our native sanitarium, is still under private management, and doing a good work. For a long time the need of more room and better facilities was felt. About a year ago a friend of the institution furnished security for a loan, with which land was purchased, and a new building suited to the needs of the work, was erected. This building was occupied early last summer, and the good work goes on with increased patronage. However, the management find themselves embarrassed by a debt of about $15,000, while they are still in need of further equipment. But they report that under present conditions they have more than paid expenses. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.17

Our publishing work during the past four years has seen some changes in the direction of progress. The work is still carried on in rented rooms in Tokyo. Two years ago we bought a pony, cylinder press, on which we have since printed our missionary paper. We also print our Sabbath-school lessons, and some of our tracts; but we still hire considerable of our tract work done. We have changed our paper from a sixteen-page monthly to a twelve-page semi-monthly. Several new tracts have been added to our list of publications, and new editions of old ones issued. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.18

During the past year we have given special attention and effort to the circulation of our literature. Our believers have quite generally been aroused to attempt the sale of our papers and tracts, and it has been shown that these can be sold quite readily. At the close of last year we issued a special illustrated number of our paper, and over four thousand copies were disposed of, most of which were sold in a house-to-house canvass. Even some of the timid sisters were encouraged to attempt the sale of the papers, with very gratifying results. GCB May 25, 1909, page 142.19

Henceforth we shall have our workers make special effort to sell the papers, instead of loaning so many. GCB May 25, 1909, page 143.1

EDUCATIONAL

We still have no permanent training-school in Japan, but we have been doing what we could to train workers. During the winter of 1907 and 1908, Brethren Okohira and Kuniya found time from their other work to conduct regular daily Bible classes, for the benefit of a number of young people, who were seeking a better preparation for the work. This instruction was appreciated, and will doubtless bear fruit. GCB May 25, 1909, page 143.2

At our council meeting last fall, we planned a more systematic and extensive educational effort than we had yet undertaken. We decided to hold a three months’ training-school during the winter. We called in all our regular workers to attend this school, and also made such arrangements as would enable a number of our young men and women to attend. The school was held from December 7 to February 28, and the attendance was about 40. We gave instruction in topical Bible subjects, the prophecies, physiology and hygiene, church history, English language, vocal music, and practical drill in canvassing. Toward the close of the school, 10 of its members were baptized, 2 of whom accepted the truth as a result of their study in the school. At the close of the school, 8 new workers started out to distribute our literature. From the first their reports have been very encouraging, and indicate that with a little more experience and better publications to work with, the sale of our literature can be made a financial success in Japan. One young brother laboring in Tokyo has been especially successful in the sale of our papers. Another new worker has been equally successful in the sale of our tracts. The stock of several of our tracts has become about exhausted since sending out these new workers, and we are busy getting out new editions. We all feel much encouraged by the impetus given to our work as a result of our brief training-school; and we are praying and planning that we may soon have a permanent school for the training of workers. GCB May 25, 1909, page 143.3

The experience of one of our new workers indicates how the Lord is preparing the way for the truth to go even in Japan. Brother Nishino had been reading our literature for some time, and began to observe the Sabbath a short time before our training-school opened. He attended the school throughout, and then offered himself for the work of distributing our literature. He wished to labor near his home, which is in the country not far from Tokyo. But he feared the prejudice in his immediate neighborhood. However, before leaving home to begin his work with the literature, he invited in his friends and neighbors, that he might explain to them the reasons of his faith. The result was that he found an interest far beyond his expectation, and reported that seven had already decided to observe the Sabbath, and that he had decided to follow up the interest instead of going elsewhere to labor. We planned to associate with him Brother Watanabe, one of our experienced workers, and are expecting to see a good work done there. GCB May 25, 1909, page 143.4

We have not yet attempted anything in the church-school work; but this is a matter that demands our serious consideration. There are not many children of school age among us yet. At present there are eleven in Tokyo, and hardly as many more elsewhere, with no more than three in any one place. But these should be given the advantages of a Christian education if possible. In planning to open this line of work, a number of difficulties present themselves. Japan has very strict school laws. The first six years of school life are compulsory. A very through system of public schools is maintained. But private schools are allowed, under certain restrictions and regulations. The law also allows a family to employ a private tutor, who must be a regularly licensed teacher. It is evident that we could not hope to provide a private teacher for every family having children. Should we attempt to form a private school to which a number of families might send their children, we should have to conform to the regulations governing such schools. One of these regulations requires that a school must employ not fewer than three teachers. The construction of the school building, the size of the play-ground, the course of study, and other details, are subject to government inspection and approval. It will require faith and courage, earnest work and careful planning, to surmount these difficulties, that our Japanese children may be given a Christian education. GCB May 25, 1909, page 143.5

The Sabbath-school work in our field has kept pace with the advancement made in other lines. We now have five schools, one in each church, and one at Hiroshima. During the past year we have made an effort to increase our donations by the use of the contribution thermometer; and in at least two of our schools the resulting increase has been very marked. As for lessons, for some time we have been translating the regular senior lessons for our schools. But these lessons, while excellent for our people at home, are hardly adapted to the needs of the people in a country like Japan. So we are in favor of having prepared a series of elementary lessons on Bible truth, adapted to such fields as ours. The senior grade of lessons are the only ones we provide. We have a primary class in the Tokyo Sabbath-school, but the teacher is left to her own resources in providing lessons. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.1

GENERAL CONFERENCE REPRESENTATIVES’ VISITS

During the past General Conference term, the Japanese field has for the first time been visited by representatives of the General Conference. Two years ago this past winter Elder Prescott spent between two and three weeks with us, during which time we held our first general meeting. Brother Prescott’s help was very much appreciated, both in planning for the advancement of the work, and in the study of the message. Last fall Elder I. H. Evans spent several weeks in Japan, visiting various places where our work has been established, and counseling with us in our plans for the future. Brother Evans’s visit was also highly appreciated, and we believe that we should frequently have the benefit of such advice and counsel. And we are hoping that something may be done at this Conference to provide for this evident need in our missions of the far East. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.2

At our general meeting two years ago it was decided to hold a similar meeting every year, after the manner of our camp-meetings in the home field. Our general meeting last year was held at Kozu, a pleasant seaside place not far south of Yokohama. The meeting continued ten days, and was a very profitable season. We spent the forenoons in Bible study, and in considering the various lines of our work. Afternoons our workers went out among the people, distributing our literature, interesting them in Christianity, and inviting them to our meetings. Every evening a service was held especially for outsiders. We had a good meeting. Our own people were much benefited; and we trust that seeds of truth were sown that will eventually bear fruit. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.3

THE FUTURE

This report would hardly be complete without some reference to our plans for the future. At our council meeting held during Elder Evan’s visit, the plans adopted centered around the general proposition to establish a permanent center for our work. It was decided that this center should be located in or near Tokyo, the capital and metropolis of the country. Our plan is to purchase a plot of ground in the suburbs, where land is not too expensive, and to establish thereon a training-school, a sanitarium, and a printing plant. The carrying out of such a comprehensive plan requires the expenditure of quite a sum of money, and a number of additional experienced workers, to assure success. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.4

During the past winter we spent considerable time in searching for a suitable location for the proposed headquarters of our work. The value of land in and around Tokyo is rapidly increasing, and in most directions is far too high for us to think of purchasing. Our search finally narrowed down to the vicinity between two diverging railway lines, in the northwestern suburbs. Here within a few minutes’ walk from both steam and electric cars, we were offered a plot containing five or six acres, as we might desire, for about $2,100 an acre. This we considered a very favorable offer indeed, as much of the land in the immediate vicinity is held at nearly or quite twice this figure. And even after offering us the land at this price, while we were hoping and planning that we might secure the land, the owners apparently became convinced that they had offered it too cheap, and made an advance of about $120 an acre, and limited our option to a few days. This statement of our experience will give some idea of the values on land near Tokyo, and of the importance of securing what we need as soon as possible. We shall probably not have another chance like the one just mentioned. To secure land at this price we shall be obliged to go farther out from the lines of travel, and from the conveniences to be found near the city limits. Every year’s delay means a difference of thousands of dollars in the value of the land we shall need. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.5

In closing, I wish to express my confidence in the progress and final triumph of the Lord’s work in Japan. Even with our present force of workers, the message should go much more rapidly than heretofore. And if now we can have a permanent center, where the various lines of our work can be developed systematically, and from which a constant supply of new workers can be sent out into the field, we shall soon see the end of our efforts,—the nation warned, and a people prepared for the great day of the Lord. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.6

F. W. Field then said that H. Kuniya, one of our two ordained Japanese ministers, and a regular delegate to the Conference, would present a report of his own experience in this message, which he did, as follows:— GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.7

Experience in Japan GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.8

To the Brethren and Sisters of the General Conference, Greeting. I count it a great privilege to be present at this Conference, and to be allowed to report some of my experiences in Japan. In the autumn of 1897, under the labors of Elder Grainger and Brother T. H. Okohira, Dr. Kawasaki (who is present here) and I accepted the truth of the third angel’s message. We were the first converts in Japan. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.9

Formerly I was a Buddhist, and I have brought to this meeting some of our family gods. In 1994, during the recent war, I was called to do service at the front; but later the officials kindly excused me from the service. Soon after this I was sent to Korea to spread this message, and I enjoyed the privilege of baptizing many of the dear Korean brethren. To-day I am glad to greet here in the gospel all these brethren from Russia, and hope to meet many of them in the New Jerusalem. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.10

My father learned to love the God in heaven, who is the only true God, and just before I left for America, he gave me all the old family gods and tablets, and the family shrine. I feel so thankful that the Lord has brought me out of the darkness of heathenism into the marvelous light of the third angel’s message. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.11

The population of Japan is over 48,000,000, with an annual increase of 300,000. Japan is as densely populated as any country in the world. I, of course, think that there is no country more beautiful than my own; and if I had time, I could tell you much about the grand scenery. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.12

The religions of Japan are Shintoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. There are also many kinds of foreign religions in the country. Since so many forms of Christianity have been introduced into Japan, there is a tendency to unite many heathen ideas with Christianity. This makes it difficult for the people to understand the pure gospel of Jesus Christ. Our church is the only denomination that has the truth of these last days. And we must teach the people earnestly while we have the opportunity. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.13

I enjoy working in the country better than in the cities, because the country people are so simple-hearted and so anxious to listen to the truth. They are hungry for something that will satisfy them. Twenty years ago Christian teachers were stoned in Japan; but now the Lord is going before us, and in the country villages the people like hungry fishes crowd around us to hear the gospel. Of course all will not accept Christ, but we have found some honest ones, who are now rejoicing in the truth, and anxious to tell the good news to their friends. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.14

Our publishing work is a very important factor in the spreading of the truth. Besides our missionary paper, we have printed 2 books and 6 tracts; and we have several more ready for publication. Our 2 books are “His Glorious Appearing” and “Step to Christ.” So far this year about 25,000 books and tracts have been circulated. We are scattering our literature all over Japan as fast as possible. This is the seed sowing; and we know that God will give the increase. Surely these leaflets are the silent messengers of truth. Brother Seino, who was in prison on account of the military service, and many others, accepted the truth from reading our papers. I will not try to tell you more about Brother Seino, as you have read of his experiences in the Second Sabbath Readings. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.15

I am also much interested to see the sanitarium work advanced in Japan. As soon as I accepted the truth, I heard much about health reform. Anciently the Japanese were vegetarians. But now they have learned from foreigners to eat all the meat they can afford. When I was a boy, my grandfather would not allow any meat cooked in the house; and if any one ate meat, he was not allowed to enter the house for several days. But now everything is changed. I am much interested in health reform myself; and by interesting the people first in this, it is more easy to teach them about the true God. The grown people are like babes in the things of God, and so must be taught in the most simple manner. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.16

Once I was invited into the country to hold meetings. When I arrived, I was surprised to find a large Buddhist temple overflowing with people anxious to hear me. I asked the chief of the village if I might preach my religion in the temple, and he said, “Yes, and if the priests interfere, we will put them all out.” After the meeting I conversed with a priest, and he said, “You spoke the truth to-night, but I can not obey such a religion. I would soon lose my position.” There are about 300,000 temples in Japan, and more than this number of priests. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.17

Many of these leaders are intemperate and licentious, and for this reason the morality of the people is very low, as the priests have great influence over them. The third angel’s message is the only religion able to lift them up to a higher plane of living. GCB May 25, 1909, page 144.18

As the result of intemperance, all kinds of diseases are common. There are plenty of drug doctors in every city and village, but they make much money without curing the people. One poor old lady with rheumatism spent all her money on physicians, but was no better. My nephew gave her fomentations, and she was soon much improved. Her friend told her not to associate with him or she would become a Christian, but she said, “I don’t care about that if I get well.” This shows the need of medical missionaries all over Japan. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.1

For ten years we have been hoping for a school and sanitarium combined, which would train our young people in this line of work. Many young men have given up the truth on being driven from their homes, when, if we had had such a school, we might have helped them until they became better established in the truth. The training-school conducted last winter shows what can be done for our young people in the future; but we need your prayers and support in this undertaking. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.2

Our brethren and sisters in Japan are praying and waiting for good news from this Conference, and I hope they may not be disappointed. In the East the angels are holding the spirit of strife, and we can not tell how soon the clouds may break. The truth must be spread now, or it may soon be too late. Please remember needy Japan in your prayers. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.3

Elder Field now called upon Mrs. F. W. Field, who read the following paper:— GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.4

The Women and Children of Japan GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.5

Since returning home after a residence of a number of years in Japan. I have been asked many questions about the women and children of that interesting country; and I will try here to answer some of those questions. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.6

The women of Japan have always been held in higher regard by their fathers, brothers, and husbands than have the women of most heathen lands. However, the regard of the Japanese for their women was not, of course, to be compared with that shown the women of Christian lands. No longer than twenty years ago, they were treated more like servants by the men of the family, and were not considered worthy of an education. When a woman was so unfortunate as to become the mother of a girl baby, she was broken-hearted, and ashamed to meet her neighbors. But upon the birth of a son, there was great rejoicing. A festival was held in his honor, and the friends and relatives brought gifts. Even yet boys are generally preferred, because when they grow up, they may become soldiers, and defend their country against its enemies. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.7

But girls are no longer unwelcome, and the friends of the parents bring presents of dolls and garments. These dolls are carefully preserved; and the third day of March is observed as girls’ festival day, and is known as dolls’ day, because these birthday dolls are then brought out, and displayed, as a part of the festivities. They are often dressed in elaborate costumes of ancient style; and the little girls are arrayed in their best and brightest kimonos. Feasting and games, and the congratulations of friends, make the day a bright spot in the memory of each quaint little maiden. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.8

On her seventh birthday, a girl is allowed for the first time to wear a wide silk sash, which is tied behind in an enormous bow. Her dainty wooden shoes often have tiny bells fastened underneath, which tinkle as she walks. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.9

At three years of age, the little city girl is carried, on the back of a servant, to a kindergarten school, where she spends three or four hours a day in an enjoyable and profitable manner. These kindergartens are conducted in the same manner as those in this country. After completing her seventh year, every Japanese girl must attend the public schools for the next six years. Night schools are provided for those who are obliged to work during the day. Of course many girls do not leave school after completing the required six grades. In eight years the primary school is completed. In the primary grades, boys and girls attend the same school, but occupy separate rooms. The next higher school is called the middle school, and separate schools are provided for boys and girls. In these, besides book learning, girls are taught sewing, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, painting, and music. They must learn everything that will fit them to become capable wives and mothers. Many graduate from the middle school at the age of eighteen; and some of these go on to take some special course in art or teaching, or enter the women’s university in Tokyo, where a thorough college course may be taken. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.10

Anciently, Japanese girls were often married at the age of fourteen. Now the laws forbid marriage under eighteen years. Some engagements are made by the parents when the children are yet in their infancy, but this custom is dying out. The marriage customs of Japan are similar to those of other Oriental countries. A go-between—usually a friend of the would-be groom—seeks out a suitable young lady, and makes all the arrangements for the wedding. Custom decrees that the young man and the young woman must occupy the same social position in life. It is the duty of the go-between to appoint a meeting of the two young people. This is often the first time they have ever met. The girl serves her guests with tea. If she is unfavorably impressed by the young man, she may refuse to marry him. As among the ancient Jews, the wedding feast may continue for several days. Much rice liquor is drunk. GCB May 25, 1909, page 145.11

The marriage ceremony is performed on the first evening of the feast. The bride is dressed in costly silks, and a long white veil covers her head and shoulders. The ceremony is very simple. The groom takes a sip from a small wine cup, and then passes it to the bride, who, in turn, takes a sip, and passes the cup to her parents. Then the feasting and drinking begin in good earnest. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.1

The bride remains in her husband’s home, where she may be happy or very unhappy, according to circumstances. Though her husband may love her, if she does not please her mother-in-law, she may be sent back to her home. The go-between will do all in his power to bring about a reconciliation, in case of trouble. But if he fails in this, he draws up a bill of divorce, which is signed by the young couple and the parents. This completes the divorce, and the couple are free once more. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.2

I have described the ancient marriage customs of Japan. But under Western influence, these are rapidly changing, and now in the higher circles of society, marriage ceremonies very similar to our own are often performed in the temples by the priests. The middle and lower classes are also being affected by Western ways. Where formerly young ladies were modest and retiring, they are now becoming rather bold and forward. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.3

Our heathen sisters must have the transforming power of Christ brought into their lives. Christian mothers are needed, who will train their children to love and obey the true God. We need trained Bible women, who can carry the gospel message to their sisters who know not the truth; for women can gain access to women much more readily than can men. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.4

Japan is a beautiful country, and its people are enthusiastic lovers of the beauties of nature. It is our work to develop in their hearts such a love for moral beauty as will transform their lives into the Saviour’s image. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.5

At this point, Brethren Field, Kuniya, Tanimoto (a student of the Foreign Mission Seminary), and Sister Field, sang a hymn in Japanese, “Hover O’er Me, Holy Spirit.” GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.6

Elder Field then asked Brother Kuniya to read the twenty-third psalm and Revelation 14:6-14 from the Japanese Bible, in order that the Conference might hear the sound of the language. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.7

By request of Dr. Kawasaki, a delegate from Japan, F. W. Field read the report which the doctor had prepared:— GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.8

An Experience in the Medical Missionary Work GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.9

Thirteen years ago, when I accepted this truth, my mind was much exercised about medical missionary work; and, wishing to add this line to the effort in Japan, I decided that, if possible, I would come to this country for study. In 1903 Dr. Lockwood, having come to Japan the previous year, started sanitarium work in Kobe. That year my sister-in-law and I, in co-operation with the Kobe Sanitarium, opened a small sanitarium especially for Japanese. You are doubtless acquainted with the work that is still being carried on in that city by Dr. Noma, not only for the care of the sick, but for the salvation of souls. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.10

Three years after the beginning of this effort, my health became impaired, and I was obliged to leave, and return to my home for recuperation. But even there so many patients came to me that I opened a private office. At times I had more than one hundred patients a day, and performed more than thirty operations in a week. Of course it was impossible for me to give treatments to each one of these patients; but I gave simple treatments whenever practicable, and used harmless remedies for others, as most of the people are ignorant, and think there is healing power in medicine. So I practiced in my home country for several years, and the people gave me the nickname of the “enema doctor.” But the water-doctor’s office was very prosperous, and other doctors in the same vicinity almost lost their business. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.11

The people in my country are all earnest Buddhists, as are my own relatives; and when I began my work, the Buddhist priests and the doctors combined to hinder it, by influencing people not to come to me. Further, they tried to influence my landlord not to rent to me. However, many patients came to my office, and requested treatment. Not only this, but among my patients several young people accepted the truth, two of whom are now in the work in Tokyo; others are waiting for an opportunity to attend school. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.12

At present the ideas of the majority of Japanese are materialistic; and in the art of war and other scientific attainments, they are well advanced. In the university, instruction is given in hydrotherapy, and many hospitals have water-treatment rooms. Some Japanese physicians have visited this country, and are well acquainted with the sanitariums at Battle Creek and other places. But they can not give up the idea that drugs can cure disease, because they do not have the spirit of present truth. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.13

Last summer Elder Field sent Brother Kuniya to me, to encourage me to engage in sanitarium work. At that time the enemy tempted me to think that I could not do this. But after making it a subject of prayer, I decided to respond to the call. Last fall Elder Evans came to Japan, and I attended the council meeting, and it was decided that I should come to this country to study our sanitarium methods. Believing this to be the voice of heaven to me. I have come. While in Tokyo, I called on friends who were in the Red Cross hospital ten years ago when I was there. Among them were some who urged me to remain in this country only half a year, and then return and start the work. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.14

Truly the sanitarium work in Japan is important; and I think it will be a success, and am praying that we shall be able to send you a good report from it. We are planning to erect a sanitarium in the suburbs of Tokyo next year. We ask your prayers and sympathies in starting this. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.15

From a Japanese Newspaper GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.16

Elder Field referred to the wide-spread interest attracted by the case of Brother Seino, the brother who has recently been imprisoned for refusing to work on the Sabbath while in military service. One day, after his release, he was walking through the street. Two men passed him, and one said to the other, “There is that fanatic.” The man to whom this was spoken was a Japanese newspaper correspondent. He followed Brother Seino, and as a result of his interview, several articles appeared in one of the papers. Elder Field read one of the articles, which was listened to with deep interest, as an example of a witness truly borne by a Japanese brother, and well reported by a Japanese journalist. The article says:— GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.17

“Mr. Seino explained to me that he believes in the authority of the Old Testament, and does not doubt any prophecy or miracle recorded in the Bible. He believes that the destruction of this world is very near, as prophesied by Daniel. He opened his satchel, and showed me pictures of a lion with two wings, a sheep with a crooked root on its head, and a creature with scales like a crocodile. He called my attention to the picture of the image of a man, and said, ‘This illustrates the prophecy of Daniel concerning the destruction and recreation of the world. The head represents Babylon, the next part Medo-Persia, the next Grecia, the legs represent Rome, and the feet the kingdoms of our own time.’ GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.18

“As he made these explanations, he opened a well-worn Bible, and, turning first to the Revelation, said that the same prophecy is given in this book also. He also quoted from Genesis and various other books of the Bible. I readily saw that he was well acquainted with his Bible. The margins of the leaves were marked full of references and notes. His knowledge of the Bible extended to minute particulars, and he knew exactly where to turn for whatever he wished to find. It all seemed as easy for him as a turn of the hand. He believes very firmly that the destruction of the world is at hand. He declared that one who doubts this prophecy of Daniel can not gain a genuine faith. There can be no mistake about the prophecy concerning the destruction of the world. After this God will create a new earth. GCB May 25, 1909, page 146.19

“‘Certainly,’ he said, ‘I am a Protestant. The Sabbath, which is the seventh day, was made by the Creator for man. But men have made a counterfeit Sabbath, without God’s authority. If a man makes counterfeit money, not only is he punished, but also those who pass such money.’ GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.1

“I asked him this question: ‘All Protestants keep Sunday; are you not Catholic?’ ‘No,’ he replied; ‘I believe the same Protestantism that was proclaimed by Martin Luther.’ GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.2

“‘What about your church?’ I asked. He replied, ‘I do not belong to any one of the ordinary churches. I obtained my faith direct from the Bible.’ GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.3

“Is this really a true faith, or a superstition, or a form of insanity? Is there any one who believes the prophecies and miracles, and all other things in the Bible, in these scientific days? One can not believe thus in the end of the world unless there is some evidence of it in the world. Neither can one believe in miracles, unless they are well attested. These Christians believe implicitly every word of the Bible, and are trying to fulfill it in every particular. I love their sincerity; and while they thus adhere to their profession, theirs is a true faith. Those who criticize other religionists as fanatics are themselves unreasonably severe. Such persons are ever ready to apply the term fanatics to a minority. But a persecuted minority always become more firm and earnest. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.4

“While I was talking with Mr. Seino in the tea-house by the river-side, many people crowded around to listen. There were workmen, clerks, jinrikisha men, nurses with babies on their backs, horse drivers, men and women like a wall surrounding us. The river was flowing full from the melting snows. The surrounding mountains and hills were taking on the fresh appearance of spring, as the sunshine gradually warmed the earth. Under such circumstances, I talked with this earnest young man. All this reminded me of John the Baptist, clothed in camel’s hair, eating locusts and wild honey, and preaching to the people: ‘Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’ It reminded me also of how Jesus, after being baptized by John, preached to the crowds that gathered around him. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.5

“Mr. Seino opened his satchel, and presented his books and papers, and I bought a copy of his paper, The Gospel for the Last Days, and then said goodbye, promising to see him again. These people are going to proclaim their message in our city. How are you going to welcome them? What shall I myself do? They urged me to study these things.” GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.6

After this consideration of the work in Japan, Elder Field called upon W. R. Smith to present the work in— GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.7

Korea GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.8

Korea has a territory of about 90,000 square miles, with a population of 15,000,000. It has a spoken and a written language of its own. About half the men are able to read and write. The women are mostly illiterate, there being no general educational system in Korea. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.9

Our work in Korea began about five years ago, when two Koreans visiting Japan had their attention drawn to the truth, one of them returning to Korea, and beginning to preach what he had learned. None of the Korean believers understood the Japanese, the English, or the Chinese, and there was no one among our Japanese workers who understood very much of the Korean. So whatever truth these Korean people received they received under very unfavorable circumstances. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.10

We have at the present time about fourteen companies of Sabbath-keepers, numbering upward of 500. I would not wish to give the impression that we have this many Seventh-day Adventists; for all who attend the services are not yet informed as to all points of our truth. They have not yet had opportunity to become fully instructed. We had first to learn the language, and it has taken some time to get where we could properly instruct those who were following the truth so far as they imperfectly understood it. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.11

I think I am safe in saying that we now have fully 150 established believers. As for all the rest who are attending our services, and who are friendly to the truth, we are endeavoring to lead and instruct them so that they may intelligently take their stand with us. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.12

We have at the present time seven native laborers who are giving their time to teaching their fellow men. There are three families of foreign workers and two single ladies. A year after we entered Korea, Miss Scharfenberg arrived; and last autumn Elder C. L. Butterfield and family, Dr. R. Russell and wife, and Miss May Scott arrived in the field. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.13

We have no literature save four small tracts. The Bible is not yet wholly translated into Korean. We have the New Testament, Genesis, Exodus, First and Second Samuel, First and Second Kings, Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah, and Malachi. Without doubt the other portions will soon be in the language. We are very anxious to get out literature of our own, by which to lead the people into the study of the Word of God. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.14

The conditions for years in Korea have been such as to discourage progress and enterprise. If some man built up a fair property, some corrupt official was liable to pounce upon him and bring him into trouble unless he gave up whatever he had. This has given the country, to some extent, an appearance of shiftlessness. But the Koreans have sterling qualities which will place them,—when they are educated and protected,—alongside any people that live in the world. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.15

While the Korean has been oppressed all these centuries by the nations that are stronger than himself, yet he has not lost his self-respect. While he realizes that his nation is perhaps the weakest of all the nations, he regards himself as a man among men. We will tell you that the Korean student, when put with Japanese and Chinese students, excels them. He is proud of his intellect. He has nothing to boast of in regard to his government. He will tell you that for hundreds of years they have not had one good king, nor one good governor, nor one good magistrate. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.16

Agricultural methods are primitive. While the ground is fertile, and nourished by warm rains, so that it produces a fair harvest of rice, wheat, barley, beans, and Kaffir corn, yet the Korean tills it with the same instruments that were perhaps used three thousand years ago. But he is anxious to learn. We have a garden at our Soonan Mission, and the natives are very anxious to know how we plow our fields, and to learn what we raise in this western country. They desire to get seeds from us. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.17

As most of you know, we have a small school at Soonan, in a building 60 x 12 feet. We use one portion of this building for the girls, the other for the boys, and at one end Dr. Russell has his dispensary. In another room is our little printing-press. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.18

We are thankful, indeed, for the opening of the medical missionary work. The methods of the native medicine-man are primitive and cruel. Perhaps he will jab a sharp steel instrument into an affected part. For a pain in the shoulder he may burn the shoulder into a blister, or thrust in a sharp instrument almost to the bone. When we went to Korea, three years and a half ago, we were beset by those who desired help for physical ailments. As we went for a walk one day, a man asked us to come and see his wife, who was ill, and Mrs. Smith gave her treatment until she recovered. From that time until Dr. Russell came last fall, Mrs. Smith was the medical member of the community. The people would flock in by the dozens, and I think sometimes as many as a hundred would be standing waiting to get such simple remedies as we were able to give them. Ever since Dr. Russell’s arrival last September, he has, on the average, treated about 500 patients a month. He spends his forenoons treating patients, the afternoons in language study. GCB May 25, 1909, page 147.19

To the newcomer who visits at the Korean home, it seems that the people are curious. They ask all manner of questions, as to age, salary, and family affairs. But this is not mere curiosity; it is only the Korean way of being courteous and showing interest in a stranger. They are a kind-hearted people. Often we have been able to use this very interest in introducing the truth to them. GCB May 25, 1909, page 148.1

I have tried briefly to suggest to you something of the needs of Korea. The means we have at the present time for carrying forward the work there are practically nothing. We therefore hope the needs will appeal to you. GCB May 25, 1909, page 148.2

Although the conditions in Korea are not as favorable as they are here,—the houses are inferior to those of Manchuria and China, and the people live in villages under very unsanitary conditions—yet I am glad to tell you that we enjoy life in Korea. We do desire your prayers that the Lord may sustain us, and help us to win souls in that dark country. At the same time I think the people in America are more deserving of our pity than we are deserving of their pity. I have always considered that those men in the time of David who “stayed with the stuff” were to be pitied more than those who had the privilege of going to the conquest. We do not have fine homes in Korea, but we never had fine homes here, and we do not want them. We have just as good food as we are able to appreciate. We enjoy working with the Koreans. We enjoy being with them, and are interested in the work. The only thing that would make me sorrowful would be that I could not return to Korea. I was so afraid that something would come up that I could not return, that I think I would have found some excuse to stay there, had it not been for the disappointment which would have resulted to Mrs. Smith and her mother. We have had sickness in our family, and lost our little one, and we appreciate the sympathy we have heard expressed since returning. But I am glad to testify to you that the grace of God is able to sustain us under any circumstances. I went to Korea with some misgivings, especially in regard to my being able to master the language, because I felt that I was deficient in articulation. But I determined that I was going to learn the language, or come home on my own expense. GCB May 25, 1909, page 148.3

Our hearts are full of courage for the work in the great Korean field. GCB May 25, 1909, page 148.4

At the close of the meeting the Japanese delegation displayed some articles from these fields. GCB May 25, 1909, page 148.5

Meeting adjourned.

L. R. CONRADI, Chairman,
W. A. SPICER, Secretary.