General Conference Bulletin, vol. 6

THIRTY-THIRD MEETING

June 1, 10:30 A. M.

G. A. Irwin in the chair. Prayer by Dr. H. F. Rand. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.1

New delegate seated: Dr. W. B. Holden, of the North Pacific Union. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.2

A legal meeting of the Washington Training College was called, and adjourned. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.3

The Conference hour was given to reports of the Medical Missionary Council. Dr. W. A. Ruble, secretary of this department, presented his quadrennial report, as follows:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.4

REPORT OF THE MEDICAL MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

WASe

Foreword

The Medical Missionary Council, as a department of the General Conference, was organized at the session of that body four years ago. During this period, many obstacles have been met in the way of establishing the Council as an integral part of denominational work. How well they have been overcome can hardly be judged after so short a time; but from evidence given below, we have great reason for thankfulness to God for his prospering hand in this department. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.5

The trying experience of the past few years has been instrumental in causing a much wider dissemination of health principles. It has caused us to turn our attention to building up this branch of the work in many places. It has given opportunity for a hundred competent men, in as many widely separated places, to develop their God-given privilege of building up enterprises to the glory of God and the uplifting of humanity. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.6

The past quadrennial period has taught us many valuable lessons; but we are looking to the present Conference to plan the future of this department so that much greater progress shall be made in medical missionary work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.7

At the beginning of the General Conference four years ago, the president, in his opening address, said:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.8

“From an early period in our history, medical missionary work has been a prominent feature of this cause. To the one little institution established in 1867, have been added 51 sanitariums, 29 establishments known as treatment-rooms, and a large number of hygienic restaurants. Hundreds of persons, as physicians, nurses, and health and temperance workers, are now devoting their lives to the promotion of this important phase of the third angel’s message.” GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.9

Of the 51 sanitariums then in operation, 31 still exist; and the roll has been swelled until the number of recognized institutions is now 80, scattered almost all over the world. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.10

Distribution of Sanitariums

Ordinarily we speak of our sanitariums as those under denominational supervision, and private sanitariums. Of the former, there are 44, distributed as follows: In Australia, 4; in New Zealand, 1; in India, 2; in Japan, 1; in South Africa, 2; in Palestine, 1; in Norway, 1; in Denmark, 2; in Germany, 1; in Switzerland, 1; in Ireland, 1; in England, 2; and in the United States, 25. Of the private sanitariums, there are 36, of which 2 are in South Africa, 1 in Scotland, 1 in the West Indies, 1 in Japan, and 31 in the United States. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.11

Statistics

A glance at the financial condition of our sanitariums for the past four years is of interest. The sanitariums reported at the last session of the General Conference by the statistician, had assets to the value of $807,405.05. The present worth at that time was $276,687.11, or about a quarter of a million dollars. A similar report at the end of 1908 shows a valuation of over two and one-half millions; namely, $2,766,346.50. The gain for the year 1908 was $422,062.85. The sanitariums under conference supervision, as stated, number 44, against 40 a year ago. Private institutions now number 36, as compared with 24 a year ago. The valuation is as follows: Gain of conference institutions in 1908 over 1907, $152,885.49; gain of private institutions during the same period, $269,177.36. This is a gain of 8.19 per cent in denominational, and 56.38 per cent in privately owned institutions. This seeming disproportion of gain between denominational and private institutions comes about principally through read-justment in the naming of a few sanitariums, some of which have been known as denominational in the past, having been placed with those privately owned. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.12

It may be a surprise to some to learn that the net gain of twenty of our largest sanitariums the past year, counting the losses of some with the gains of others, was $18,980.37, or an average of about $1,000 apiece. The monetary valuation of our institutional work is but a small part of its worth. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.13

Sanitarium Helpers

There are, in all our sanitariums, 966 nurses in training. It should be remembered that all of these meet the entire expense of their training by labor while learning. The source of their support is almost entirely from outside the denomination, through the patients who attend the sanitariums. Ordinarily, a year of training in our other educational institutions costs about two hundred dollars for each student. Their support comes very largely from our own people. This item alone of educating our own young people in our sanitariums aggregates a quarter of a million dollars annually. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.14

There were in our institutions last year 1,843 helpers. Estimating their weekly wages at $6, an average taken from eight of our institutions, this would amount to $564,016 in wages annually, or more than half a million dollars. A tithe of this, paid by such helpers, is $56,401.60, besides offerings, which result from wages drawn entirely from outside sources. The support of all these Seventh-day Adventist laborers is derived directly from self-supporting missionary work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.15

Number of Patients

Another item of great importance, although often overlooked, is that of contributions to our denominational work by those outside the denomination, through fees paid to our sanitariums by those receiving treatment. The number of patients in our institutions the past year was 21,731. The average length of residence in these sanitariums, as reported by 25 of our principal institutions, is five and one-seventh weeks. A moderate estimate of the amount paid each week would be $20. This means an annual income from the world of $2,235,190. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.16

The amount of charity work reported by 27 of our sanitariums last year was $58,796, or $2,174 apiece. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.17

I am well aware that we can not estimate the worth of this branch of our work in dollars, or its strength in men; but the enumeration of these is a great stimulus to enthusiasm in any work, and without either, we could do little. GCB June 2, 1909, page 278.18

Class of People Attending Sanitariums

We have been reminded many times that the instruction to go out into the highways and compel them to come in, is a command to make a special effort for the more favored class of society. In no branch of our work is there a better opportunity to reach this class than through the medical work. We can not reach these people by our camp-meetings. They will not attend our services in tent, hall, or local church. We can not get to them with the printed page, neither can our Bible readers approach them. It is a well recognized fact that the patronage of our sanitariums is largely made up of people from the higher walks of life. There is rarely a time when an institution of any size has not as patients, governors, senators, lawyers, and ministers, as well as people who stand high in the financial world. In response to a question sent to our various sanitariums, it appears that there have been 243 of such influential people in 33 of our various institutions the past year. It will be granted by all that this class is a difficult one from which to gather converts to the message; but those who attend our sanitariums certainly receive a knowledge of the truth, and we have the assurance that many who have been taught the truth of the third angel’s message will later accept it. Fifteen of our sanitariums report 141 who have received the message through the influence of the sanitariums. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.1

Periodicals and Literature

We recognize that we have not been as prolific in the production of medical literature as we ought. Nevertheless, we have at present seven health journals, with a combined circulation of 135,000 copies a month. The growth of Life and Health has been steady. In 1905 the circulation was 16,000 copies a month. In May, 1909, 50,000 copies were printed, and the edition was soon exhausted, so that no more could be had. This list is growing rapidly. The English Good Health has a circulation of 45,000 copies a month; German Good Health, 17,000; French Good Health, 6,000; Dutch Good Health, 5,000; Danish Good Health, 5,000; and the Australasian Good Health, 7,000 copies. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.2

Our medical books consist of the following:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.3

“Home and Health,” by E. R. Palmer; 60 pages; prices, $3.50 to $5; sales, 10,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.4

“The Practical Guide to Health,” by Dr. F. M. Rossiter; 668 pages; price, $3 to $5; sales, 5,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.5

“School of Health,” by Dr. A. B. Olsen; 400 pages; price, $1.25; sales, 15,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.6

“Health for the Millions,” by Dr. A. B. Olsen; 256 pages; price, 65 cents; sales, 6,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.7

“Colds,” by Dr. G. H. Heald; price 25 cents; sales, 10,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.8

“Health; How to Find It When It’s Lost; How to Keep It When It’s Found,” by B. Franklin Richards; 240 pages; price, $1. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.9

“Ministry of Healing,” by Mrs. E. G. White; 544 pages; price, $1.50; sales, about 22,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.10

“Vegetarian Cook Book,” by E. G. Fulton; 266 pages; price, 75 cents. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.11

“A Friend in the Kitchen,” by Mrs. Anna L. Colcord; price, 25 cents and 50 cents; sales, 160,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.12

For years we have felt the need of tracts and leaflets on health topics. At the last General Conference, a committee was appointed to prepare such leaflets or have them prepared. Accordingly, three series have been started. The first is the Life and Health Series of booklets, four and three fourths by seven inches in size, varying in price from three fourths of a cent to five cents. These are as follows:—
1. “Tobacco Using” Heald
2. “Tobacco Habit” Kress
3. “Diet and Endurance” Leadsworth
4. “Chronic Constipation” Kress
5. “Medical Use of Alcohol” Heald GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.13

A second series, called Life and Health Leaflets, comprises a series of small, envelope-size tracts selling for one-fourth to one-half cent. These are:—
1. “Alcohol and Disease” Kress
2. “Liquor, Poverty, and Crime” Ruble
3. “Counting the Cost of Alcohol” Ruble
4. “Is Alcohol a Food?” Kress
5. “The Cure for National Intemperance” Kress
6. “Patent Medicines” George
7. “Simple Treatment of a Cold” Heald
8. “Some Effects of Tobacco Using” Cummings
9. “Pointed Facts about Tobacco” Heald
10. “Pure Air in the Home” Merritt GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.14

A third series is published by the Pacific Press, as follows:—
“Patent Medicines” Rand
“Physical Effects of Tobacco” M. L. Edwards
“Simple Treatment for Common Ailments” M. L. Edwards
“Food Chart—Home Use” M. L. Edwards
“Revised Dressing for Health” M. L. Edwards
“Healthful Dress” Dr. Wood-Starr
“Choice Thoughts on Dress” E. G. White
“Signing the Pledge” E. G. White GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.15

In Australia are published a number of health pamphlets, as follows: “Food and Health,” “Dietetic Errors,” “Tobacco Habit,” “Diabetes,” “Consumption, Its Cause and Cure.” GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.16

The German book, “Christian Temperance,” having 192 pages, and selling for 40 cents, has met with a sale of 50,000 copies. In the Russian, 5,000 copies of the same book have been sold, and in other European languages, 12,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.17

“Secret of Health,” a pamphlet of 16 pages and selling for 2 1/2 cents, has met with a sale, in the German, of 5,000 copies; in French, 6,000; in Dutch, 5,000; and in Danish, 5,000. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.18

Medical Missionaries Sent Out

It is coming more and more to be realized that every one who goes to a foreign country should have a knowledge of medical work sufficient to enable him to relieve the more common ailments of humanity. During the past four years, we have sent out 53 medical missionaries, physicians and nurses, as follows: To India, 18; China, 6; Japan, 7; Korea, 2; South Africa, 3; South America, 7; West Indies, 4; Mexico, 1; other countries, 5. GCB June 2, 1909, page 279.19

Education Necessary

We recognize the need there is for educating three separate classes of workers in our institutions:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 280.1

First, well-qualified nurses. It is coming to be recognized more and more that our force of well-prepared nurses is entirely inadequate to meet the demands made upon us. We have not in the past appreciated the necessity there is for well-educated young people in every branch of our work. Every parent should recognize the obligation resting upon him to give his child the very best education obtainable in our schools. In selecting young people for our nurses’ training-schools, we experience great difficulty in finding those who have the preliminary qualifications required for entering such courses. These requirements should be made higher than they are at present. Then our nurses should be given a very thorough course in nursing, which will prepare them not only to meet the highest requirements of an institution, but to go out and do evangelistic work, to take charge of treatment-rooms, or to accept responsibility in some foreign country. Every one of the nurses’ courses connected with our various institutions should be strengthened. In addition to this, we are in need to-day of at least three post-graduate schools connected with our various larger sanitariums, where our nurses may receive advanced training beyond what has heretofore been offered in our regular courses, which will fit them for greater responsibilities. We should have one such school in the western part of the United States, one in the eastern, and one in Australia. This would be but a beginning. It ought to be one of the matters accomplished by this Conference to provide for such schools. GCB June 2, 1909, page 280.2

Second, the requirements for those contemplating a medical course are being made higher and higher from year to year by the leading medical institutions of this and other countries. This makes it obligatory upon us to provide a preliminary education far beyond what has been necessary heretofore. We are instructed in the Testimonies that our different union conference schools should give this preparatory work. We should be able to select from the best of the young people in our schools those who have had a college course leading to a degree, and recommend them to take medical studies that will prepare them for our sanitariums and for recognized medical practice in other countries. This line of work should be systematized. We have need now for more well-qualified physicians than we can supply. Since we have no educational institution in the denomination where a medical training can be secured, there is a crying need for a home where our medical students may be cared for under proper influence in close proximity to a medical school of high standing in which our young people may secure the necessary medical education. On account of there being greater demands made upon those who take the medical course than upon any other class of our people, owing to the fact that they must have four or five years of education in addition to the ordinary college course, there should be a fund provided from which worthy young men and women who are well recommended by proper persons in responsible positions, may draw for their support while taking their medical course. The amount drawn should be returned to the fund, either by the persons enjoying its privileges or by the conference in which such persons labor after their graduation. Unless we can do this, there is no way in which we can bring about this important part of the education of our young people under proper influence. During the past quadrennial period, 7 of our physicians have secured credentials for practice in other countries through examinations,—2 in South America, 1 in Japan, and 4 in England. It may not be understood by all that several very difficult examinations must be passed by our medical workers in securing the privilege of practicing medicine in almost any foreign country. GCB June 2, 1909, page 280.3

Third, there is great need of a course in our institutions looking toward qualifying efficient matrons, business managers, and cooks for our institutions. Few realize the difficulty experienced in securing such workers. Our larger institutions should give special attention to this matter. Just here I might mention the necessity of concerted action among our institutions in the matter of securing helpers to man them. Each manager of an institution, and sometimes the individual members of the board, seem to imagine that their institution is the most important in the denomination. When a vacancy occurs, either of superintendent or other helper, they too often overlook the rights of others, and begin to negotiate with the physician in charge or helper in another institution. This should not be. Such negotiations should be made with the board, or at least, it should be ascertained whether such negotiations would be agreeable to the institution with which the worker is connected. We naturally think the work with which we are connected is the most important of any, and desire the very best workers in the denomination to connect with it. Each institution, however, is but a part of the whole work, and we must think not upon the things of our own alone, but upon those of others also. GCB June 2, 1909, page 280.4

It would be a pleasure to recount the many thrilling experiences of our medical missionaries in the widely distributed fields over which they are scattered, as Dr. Riley Russell in Korea, Dr. W. C. Dunscombe and others in Japan, Drs. Selmon and Miller in China, Menkel and his companions in India, Dr. R. H. Habenicht and his associates in South America, Dr. A. A. John and others in Mexico, and still others in various places; but the limited time at our disposal will not permit. GCB June 2, 1909, page 280.5

Medical Missionary Councils

During the past four years, five of these meetings have been held, where subjects of special importance to this branch of the work have been considered. The first was held at College View in 1905; a second was here in Washington two years ago; a third was conducted at Portland, Ore., during the summer of 1907; followed by one at Loma Linda in the fall of the same year. Last summer the North Pacific Union Conference held a meeting at St. Helena. These councils have all been well attended by both physicians and nurses in our organized work, as well as by those in private practice; an excellent spirit has prevailed in each, and great benefit has been derived from them. We shall hold a three days’ council at the close of this General Conference, from June 6-8, at which time medical subjects of especial interest to our physicians will be considered. We shall give the time entirely to considering such methods of dealing with disease as are used in our various institutions. GCB June 2, 1909, page 280.6

Work of the Secretary

One of the greatest difficulties in this department is to secure men who will give up medical practice in order to attend to the routine duties connected with the secretaryship of the department. For more than a year after the preceding General Conference, we were searching for some one to do this work. Finally Dr. J. E. Froom was secured. He did very effectual work for a number of months, but finally connected with an institution in the West, and it was necessary to secure another man for this work. It has been my privilege to be connected with this department in the capacity of secretary since October, 1906. During about one half of this period, I have given my time almost entirely to the work of the department. I have visited a large number of our institutions in the United States during the past two years and a half, having made two trips to the Western Coast, three into the New England States, and two into Canada. The past sixteen months, I have been in charge of the Washington Branch Sanitarium in the city. It has been decided that the secretary shall hereafter give his entire time to the work of the department, paying especial attention to the providing of help for our sanitariums in the way of physicians, nurses, and other workers. For the past few months, a field secretary has been provided, whose duty shall be to visit our various camp-meetings and churches, and as opportunity offers, hold health lectures in connection with Chautauquas and other public gatherings. An office secretary has also been provided, who has attended to a considerable part of the correspondence. If it be agreeable to this General Conference, this arrangement will be continued, with possibly the addition of another secretary for field work. As stated below, however, there is need of several men who shall give their attention to general medical missionary work in this country and abroad, and we trust that provision will be made in this Conference to meet this need. GCB June 2, 1909, page 280.7

Some Needs of the Medical Missionary Work

First, we recognize the need there is of a greater consecration to the work of carrying the gospel to the world in this generation, and a more concentrated effort in making this department a powerful factor in that work. In no other department is there such a tendency to separate from a united effort in this direction. Has not the time come when we should put all our energies into a united effort to finish this great work? GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.1

Second, we need the prayers and support of all our people in making this department the efficient right arm of the message. Distracting influences have come in, tending to shake confidence in this work; but with the help of our people and the blessing of the Lord, this branch of the work may still triumph, and be a most powerful factor in carrying the message. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.2

Third, our sanitariums might be far more efficient in reaching the people, and at the same time aided financially, if our members would take a more lively interest in arousing among their neighbors an interest in health subjects, and in recommending their friends and relatives to spend some time in one of our institutions when in need of medical attention and treatment. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.3

Fourth, some plan should be inaugurated whereby the indebtedness of our sanitariums may be obliterated. “Ministry of Healing” has been donated for this purpose; but so much enthusiasm has been expended upon disposing of the thousands of copies of “Christ’s Object Lessons” for the relief of the schools, that it seems well-nigh impossible to organize another such campaign on “Ministry of Healing.” Between twenty and twenty-five thousand copies have been sold, which has been of some benefit to these institutions, but a more vigorous effort must be made in order to roll the reproach of debt from our sanitariums. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.4

Fifth, the department should be strengthened by providing a number of public lecturers who will attend camp-meetings and other public gatherings, as well as Chautauquas, giving lectures on popular subjects pertaining to healthful living. These should be accompanied by one or two nurses who can demonstrate healthful cookery, hold schools of health, and help the people generally. Support for such a work must be provided in some way. More complete organization of the department is imperative. Men who can give time to the interests of the department at large should be secured or released for this work. We need at least three general men who can give their entire time to this work, and one such man in each union conference. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.5

Last, but not least, is the need experienced by those who are endeavoring to provide sanitarium facilities for the colored people of the South. Three centers are in course of preparation to meet this requirement,—a sanitarium has been purchased at Nashville, another is being built at Huntsville, and a dispensary furnished at Atlanta. Those having the burden of this work have been struggling under the load too long already. The Medical Department has undertaken to awaken an interest in these institutions among our people, in order to secure sufficient means to place them in a position to do efficient work for the colored people. Mention of this matter has been made in the columns of the Review and Herald, with the following result: The Washington Memorial church has raised $112 for this work; the Takoma Park church, $120; the Takoma Park Young People’s Society, $50; South Carolina, $75; the young people of Portland, Ore., $100; and the medical section of the Conference, $85. The Eighth Street church (Washington, D. C.) has furnished a room, as have also the St. Helena Sanitarium, and the young people of Maine. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.6

Conclusion

We are grateful to God for his protecting and prospering hand that has been over this branch of the work during the past, and would here dedicate ourselves more fully to strengthening the right hand of the message, and making it a power in helping to carry the closing message to every kindred, nation, tongue, and people in this generation. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.7

W. A. Ruble: We will now listen to several of our medical missionary workers from different parts of the field, who will speak about five minutes each. First, Dr. George, who has been acting as chairman of the Medical Missionary Council. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.8

In the Southern Union

Dr. W. A. George: I represent at the present time the Southern Union Conference, as medical secretary; and I wish to say a few words in regard to that field, and in regard to opportunities to carry on medical missionary work in various parts of the South. There is one thing especially that makes this field more difficult than most other fields—and what I say of the Southern Union is true of the Southeastern and the Southwestern unions as well. This is the fact that we have to have two classes of workers—one for the whites, and another for the colored. This necessitates providing for two institutions instead of one in those communities where we wish to do this class of institutional work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.9

There are several centers for this work in the Southern Union Conference. At Nashville, Tenn., we have a sanitarium for the white people, also the Rock City Sanitarium for colored people; at Madison, Tenn., about nine miles from Nashville, there is a small sanitarium in connection with the school; and at Huntsville, Ala., is a sanitarium for colored people not quite ready to be opened. This represents the extent of our institutional medical work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.10

The South is filled with opportunities. Much may be done, in many communities, for all classes. There are a few places where treatment-rooms have been started. The spirit of prophecy has pointed out the opportunity that exists for a large and important work to be done in a humble, quiet way, by families who can settle in needy communities in various parts of the South, and there live the truth, and, when occasion requires, teach the principles of healthful living. And not only do we need missionary families who can teach by precept and by example, but we also need consecrated nurses who can work among the higher classes, in the homes of the people in the cities and elsewhere. We need nurses who can start treatment-rooms in the cities of the South. The rich and the poor are to be reached by this means, and helped to better things physically and spiritually. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.11

Dr. H. M. Jump [Ohio]: Our Heavenly Father has blessed the medical work in Ohio. We can not boast of large sanitariums, but we have a few small ones. I would particularly notice the one at Mount Vernon, known as the College Springs Sanitarium. Testimonies have pointed out the value of arranging, if possible, to have small sanitariums connected with our larger training-schools, in order that opportunity may be afforded students to receive instruction in hygiene, simple treatments, etc., in order that they may be fitted to do acceptable service as medical missionaries, while laboring as colporteurs and teachers and evangelists in all parts of the earth. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.12

The Mount Vernon institution also graduates nurses, giving them the advantages of a full course. We have endeavored to unite the healing of the sick with the preaching of the message. In the churches and at our camp-meetings much instruction has been given in the care of the sick, in hygiene, in dietetics, and other health subjects. GCB June 2, 1909, page 281.13

We have in Ohio something that I regard as a great help to the medical missionary work; namely, an organization known as the Ohio Medical Missionary Association. All our twenty-six medical workers are members of this association. Unless you have tried it, you have no idea as to the help that such an association will bring to you as a conference medical secretary. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.1

At our annual camp-meetings, we have that we need in order to present before our people in a practical way the blessings of health reform. In the large tent, lectures are given; a small tent is also provided for the physician in charge, where any one desirous of medical counsel can meet the physician. Another tent is fitted up for giving all necessary treatments to those who are afflicted. Competent nurses are employed to give these treatments, and to give such instruction and general help as necessity may require. These nurses devote all their time to this line of the work at the camp. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.2

I am glad that we can have the help and instruction of a General Conference medical missionary secretary; and I wish to thank him publicly for his counsel and encouragement to our State conference department; and we feel to thank our Heavenly Father for the many rich blessings he has been continually showering upon us. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.3

L. A. Hansen (of the Southeastern Union Conference): What Dr. George has said regarding the needs of the Southern Union Conference will apply with force, as he said, to the rest of the South. We have a big work before us in the Southeastern Union along medical missionary lines; but we have some conditions that are very favorable. In the first place, there is on the part of those at the head of the work there, a recognition of the true place that medical missionary work should occupy in this message. The Union conference executive committee and the local committees are in favor of doing all they can for the work. At our camp-meetings last year, ample time was given for a study of health principles, and very good interest was shown by all. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.4

We have several centers in which work is now being done, Graysville (Tenn.) probably having the largest sanitarium. There is also work being done at Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Atlanta. The sanitarium at Atlanta has been under way for a number of years as a private institution owned by Dr. Curtis. Not long ago, however, it was taken up by the conference and is now doing a creditable work. Sanitarium work for the colored people is also being undertaken there. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.5

In Orlando, Fla., we have an excellent sanitarium. Work is also being done in other parts of that conference. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.6

At Graysville we have an ideal location, according to the light given by the spirit of prophecy. We have there also the Southern Training-school, and that institution and the sanitarium work hand in hand. The boards of both institutions are composed principally of the same men, and in planning for the work of both institutions, the best interests of both are considered. The students in the school who wish to take the nurses’ course step right into the sanitarium training class and go on with their work. Our physician has also conducted a special class at the school for those who do not want to take the regular nurses’ course. The sanitarium is able to supply work for a number of the school students, and several are doing work in both institutions. We think that is a very desirable condition. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.7

The Work in New England

Dr. W. E. Bliss, M. D., then reported as follows for the New England Sanitarium:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.8

Although the Atlantic Union Conference comprises the States of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, and includes several of the largest cities in the United States, we have thus far only one denominational medical institution. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.9

Few, if any, of our sanitariums are so ideally located as the New England Sanitarium, which is situated in a large, beautiful park consisting of several thousand acres reserved by the State. Here, within six miles of Boston, the largest and busiest city of all New England, one can find rest and quiet, away from the noise, smoke, and bustle of the city, and yet near enough to enjoy all its advantages. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.10

We have two main buildings for our patients, and three large cottages for our helpers. Our equipment for the treatment of the sick is complete in every department. Last summer new bath-rooms and gymnasium were completed at a cost of $13,000. Our main building has been made much more attractive, and we are able to accommodate about one hundred patients, beside a large number who could be placed in tents. The patronage has been very good the past few months. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.11

Our religious services are probably somewhat different from those in other places, as we are dependent for our church organization entirely upon our sanitarium family. It has been gratifying to us to see the interest our patients have taken in these services, many of them taking an active part in our prayer and social services, which are held regularly every Friday night. We have appreciated the remarks made by so many of our patients concerning the spirit that pervades the institution. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.12

We have three classes of nurses, there being about forty in the three classes. Many of them have entered with the idea of preparing themselves for service in foreign fields, and it is our desire to live so near the Great Physician that we may be able to help them in choosing for their life service the openings in the great and needy fields that are yet to be reached with the gospel for this time. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.13

Besides the work at Melrose there are several private medical enterprises in this union, conducted by faithful Seventh-day Adventist physicians. Dr. Mary Sanderson has a small institution at Springfield, Mass., with accommodations for about fifteen patients. She has treated during the last year about one hundred patients, and has employed from four to six nurses. Dr. Sanderson reports that all are of good courage, and that much good has been accomplished. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.14

Dr. Ball, who is located in Rutland, Vt., has an extensive private practise. He states that he has many opportunities of teaching these truths to the people. Dr. Bradford conducts a small private institution at New Bedford, Mass. Brother Cross has conducted treatment-rooms in Portland, Maine, for several years. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.15

In conclusion we would say that we will be glad to come in closer touch with our people in this union who are interested in our medical work. We want our young people to train for this great, closing work, and we are always glad to talk to you about any who need the help we are able to give. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.16

In the Pacific Union Conference

J. R. Leadsworth, M. D., then spoke for the work in the Pacific Union Conference:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.17

I am often asked, “Why do you have so many sanitariums in California?” Now, when you understand that California is the health resort of the whole United States, you will see that there is a good reason why we have so many institutions there. People of leisure and means come from all parts of the country to our State; they come to our institutions, and as they are in no hurry, they sit down and inquire about our peculiar tenets. There is no field in the United States where such opportunities are offered to reach the better class as in Southern California. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.18

The St. Helena Sanitariums is the oldest institution in our conference. It is doing an excellent work, and is training a large number of young people. I am sure that in the course of a year or so the Foreign Mission Board will hear from this part of the United States. We have a large number of intelligent young people who have no other desire than to prepare to go to some needy field. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.19

We are carrying on dispensary work in San Francisco. In connection with the church we have treatment-rooms, and these are presided over by missionary nurses, who give the people treatments for small amounts, according to their ability to pay. The influence of this work is a strong factor in drawing people to our church. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.20

We have three institutions in Southern California. Near San Diego we have the Paradise Valley institution; this is well organized, and is training a good class of young people for the work. About seven or eight miles north of Los Angeles we have the Glendale Sanitarium, only twenty-five minutes’ ride from Los Angeles, the Mecca of Southern California. About sixty miles east of Los Angeles, we have the Loma Linda Sanitarium. The meaning of the word “Loma Linda” is “Hill Beautiful.” This institution is located on a knoll, in the center of orange groves. When we left to come to this Conference, we could see acres and acres of orange-trees, which were covered with both fruit and blossoms. About the sanitarium are also acres of roses. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.21

This institution also has a class of young people who have come there from different parts of the Middle West to prepare for efficient work in the mission fields. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.22

Medical Missionary Work in India

Elder J. L. Shaw, director of the Indian Mission, then spoke of the work in that field:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.23

We have a very large field for medical missionary work in India, representing one fifth of the human race. When we count up the proportion of those who are ill, and the amount of sickness, I suppose we have from one third to one half of the sick people of the world. We have all kinds of diseases, from a boil to the bubonic plague, with everything in between. GCB June 2, 1909, page 282.24

The people have a great desire for medicine. If one will give them something in a bottle, that is what they want; and the bigger the bottle, and the stronger the medicine, the better it suits them. We have had difficulty in combating this idea. At our dispensaries the people continually want medicine. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.1

We have medical work started in four different places,—at Calcutta and Mussoorie for the English-speaking people, and at Karmatar and Tinnevelli for the natives. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.2

The medical work started in India ten or twelve years ago, when Dr. Place and others started out and began work in Calcutta. The work has encountered many difficulties, but we are thankful to God that some progress has been made. At first we endeavored to get down into the sickly part of India, where the sick people are; but we are now trying what we believe to be a better plan. We are endeavoring to get the better classes up into the mountains, where the nurses can keep their health, and where the sick will have a better opportunity to get well. I believe that as we go forward with this plan, a strong work can be built up in the mountains, where the climate is bracing, where nurses and workers will have a better opportunity to make the institution a success. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.3

In conclusion I want to say, India is a mighty field for medical missionary work. Educate your young men and women, give every one that goes to the field some sort of medical missionary training, for they meet the sick on every hand. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.4

The Work in Great Britain

Dr. A. B. Olsen, of The Hydro, Caterham, England, said:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.5

From different speakers we have already listened to descriptive and statistical reports of our European health institutions. Taking the liberty of trying to outline some of the principles as I interpret them, on which we are attempting to found and carry out medical missionary work in the European field, I will mention a few. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.6

As medical missionaries, we must always look to Christ, the great Physician, the Healer of the nations. Of our Master Medical Missionary it is written, “He went about doing good.” That sums up, in our opinion, the work of the medical missionary. He has a large mission. That mission does not pertain to the body alone. In truth, it pertains more to the soul than to the body; for the body is only the temple of the soul. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.7

In our medical missionary work, we recognize three classes of health evangelists: 1 Doctors; 2 nurses (matrons, cooks, etc., as far as possible should be nurses); 3 other workers—health magazines and book canvassers and others engaging in any branch of health work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.8

Consider all of these medical missionaries or health evangelists working for health, the healing of body, mind, and soul. God has given us an all-round, full, complete, missionary work. We have to show the people that sin is the real cause of sickness, whether of body or soul. Let us not forget, then, that, as medical missionaries, we have to treat a sin-sick body as well as a sin-sick soul. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.9

As medical missionaries, we require not only thorough and efficient training and experience in matters pertaining to health and disease, all of which is necessary, but still more we need the power of God working in and through our lives. We need more prayer, more intercession with God for divine love, for wisdom and skill in dealing with our afflicted brethren and sisters. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.10

We believe in true divine healing. We look to Christ, the great Physician, as the only healer. To obtain true success our lives must be linked with his. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.11

We have a large number of nurses in the European field engaged in medical missionary work. This is especially true in Germany. We have there eighty or more nurses engaged in field work. We have a few graduates in mission fields from the Caterham Sanitarium. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.12

I am opposed to professionalism. I want to be known as a medical missionary rather than as a professional man. I am in full accord with the idea that the genuine medical missionary physician or nurse is a medical missionary evangelist. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.13

Europe and East Africa

L. R. Conradi, speaking for these fields, said:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.14

I regard the medical missionary work as the right hand of our work. We have experienced this. We started our sanitarium work small; but at the present time we have about 200 nurses educated, and about 100 in the field. Our sanitarium would not be able to employ more than from 20 to 25 nurses; but we find, as our nurses become indeed missionaries, not simply skilled in their profession, but also in the work for souls, they find abundant work everywhere. Our nurses at the present time are found not only throughout the German empire, in Austria Hungary, in Russia, but we have quite a number of nurses in Palestine, in German East Africa, in British East Africa, and in Abyssinia. We are thankful to see, wherever they go, the blessing of God attending their work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.15

Brother Shaw spoke of India. Last October, when I was in East Africa, I found three hundred persons in one neighborhood without any medical help, save our two nurses there. Indeed, this appeals to us to-day. We are thankful for the great interest our people take in our sanitarium work. We printed a ten-thousand edition of “Ministry of Healing.” That is now all sold, and we have printed another edition of ten thousand, which our people are now selling. This helps us in every way. It brings the great truths of this message in our health work before the people, and it brings financial returns to us. It is indeed a cause of rejoicing to us to realize that even one of the queens of Europe has the book and has studied these principles. She was willing to write a preface to the book, and she said, “If you do not like it, I will write another. I want your people to come to this country, and establish sanitarium work.” I think the time is coming indeed when what the spirit of prophecy has said will be fulfilled, and the medical missionary work will be found to be the right arm of this message. May God bless it to this end. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.16

I am thankful to say that we have at least six young men at the present time in German universities ready to finish their medical course. Better than all this, a number of them are indeed missionaries even while they are pursuing their studies. They are getting some other young people interested in the truth, and some have accepted it. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.17

In the Neglected Continent

R. H. Habenicht, M. D., representing our medical work in South America, spoke as follows:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.18

I am glad to have the privilege of saying a few words in regard to our medical work in South America. We have a field there that is certainly very needy. In the large cities of South America, there are a number of physicians; but out in the country, and in the smaller cities and towns, there is a crying need for help in this line. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.19

The city of Parana, the capital of our province, has 50,000 inhabitants, and only 5 physicians; the city of Victoria, with 20,000, has 2 physicians; Diamante, twelve miles from us, has 1 physician. We have ten railroad stations in the neighborhood having from 500 to 4,000 population, without a single physician. We have from 70,000 to 100,000 population, included in villages of from three to five thousand population, without a single physician to help them. We are located in the midst of this community. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.20

When people in that part of the country wish a physician, they go to the doctor’s office; they are ushered in, but before being allowed to see the physician, they must pay the usual fee. If one asks a physician to go out in the country, the physician replies, “I will go, but I must have my pay before I go.” Perhaps the man has not the money with him, and he goes back home. If he returns with the money, he gets the doctor; but by that time the patient may be dead. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.21

The qualifications of physicians in South America are exceedingly difficult. American physicians are really prohibited. I am the first American physician to receive any recognition whatever, and I have only a provincial license. The national license is impossible to North American physicians. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.22

On passing my examination in the province, we began our work, and it grew rapidly. We received the people into our home, and taught them the truth the best we could. We carried the message to them wherever we went. We used our medical work to open up fields, and the Lord gave success in preaching the truth, so that churches were organized as the result. Our work has grown until we have not been able to care for the people who come to us. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.23

Mrs. Habenicht and myself, being the only workers in this line, were often rushed day after day, until it may be we would not go to bed during a whole week. I have sometimes traveled sixty miles in a wagon to see a patient, and upon returning home have found as high as ten wagons waiting for me, with their patients, or a wagon waiting to take me off again fifty miles or so in another direction. Sometimes Mrs. Habenicht would be called to attend some other person while I was away, and the children would be left alone until one of us returned. And when we got back, the people were filling the house, as high as eighty coming in one day. GCB June 2, 1909, page 283.24

So we have worked, and the Lord has given success in bringing the message to the people. We can count a goodly number who are to-day rejoicing in the light of present truth because of what we are trying to do in our medical work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.1

Our home was used to receive the people; but during last summer vacation we turned our school building into a sanitarium. Within ten days every room was filled, until we did not have a place to take another. Sometimes we had fifteen in one room. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.2

We had to give the treatments ourselves, because we had no nurses. Our doctors here would feel shocked if I should tell them of conditions under which we have had to do some of the most critical operations for the saving of life. One case I will mention. In getting ready to perform an operation, which required the opening of the abdominal cavity, we had to prepare at the patient’s home. As we began cleaning up, we took out from under the bed three ducks’ nests, and one goose’s nest. But we do our best, and make it a practise never to begin on a surgical case without asking God to bless us in the work. And God does bless in it. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.3

We need help in our work. Nurses can work there. The Lord will open the way before them. But they must have the language. We are trying to build a small sanitarium, and must have nurses to help us. The five who recently came to us from the United States are now in school studying the language. Why can we not have a half dozen or ten of our bright young people who have finished their ordinary school work here, who will come down and join us there, and study nursing, and at the same time learn the language? At the same time they will get a drill in treating the diseases of the country, which are very different from what they are here. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.4

I hope your interest will be awakened in our field, and that you will give us the help we need so much. If we can once get onto our feet, we shall be able to run. During the last summer we had something like twenty hands at work on the sanitarium building, and we had twenty-five to thirty patients. Our income from the work was sufficient to pay all our expenses at the time we had so many workmen. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.5

Every branch of the work is a part of one great whole, and we are all to work together to place the work where God intends it shall stand. May we have your prayers and assistance in the work to be done in South America so that when the work is finished, we shall see a great number of precious souls gathered around the throne of God as a result of our work? GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.6

Report of Medical Work in Australia

A. W. Semmens, of Australia, reported for that field. We can give but a summary of his remarks here:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.7

Fifteen years ago last January, my wife and I left Battle Creek, via New York and England, for Australia. We are deeply grateful to God for the manifold blessings and experiences that have attended us from that time to the present, and that God has kept us faithful to the message. On the journey to Australia we were able to relieve one lady passenger by suggestions as to treatment, and by the end of the voyage she had accepted the truth. She is now one of our laborers. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.8

FIRST WORK

WASe

Our first work began in the Australasian Bible School, located at St. Kilda, Victoria. Here we had many varied experiences. The health reform was not so far advanced as it now is, nor was it so clearly understood. Later we labored in tent and Bible work in Sydney, under the direction of J. O. Corliss, doing much work among the sick. We did not then understand why we could not enter upon strictly medical work; we know now. God was training us, that we should not be one-sided workers, but have an all-around experience. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.9

BEGINNING OF HEALTH WORK

WASe

In august, 1896, a small Health Home was opened in Ashfield, a suburb of Sydney. This home consisted of a cottage of seven rooms. The equipment was modest,—a bath-tub, shower, fomentation cloths, gas ring, and massage table. With these we did much effective work. At this time I became acquainted with a physician who was much interested in rational methods of treatment, and who did much to further our work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.10

Soon this property was sold. In January, 1897, after much prayer and searching, we secured a house of 14 rooms. The brethren were not over-sanguine as to its success, somewhat afraid that we would become involved in debt. Sister White stood by us to encourage us in the work, and having given $125 to help in the beginning at the other place, now gave $100 more and also rented one room in the building. Elder and Sister Haskell furnished a room, and others helped in the work. By the blessing of the Lord, difficulties were overcome, and as the patients increased, we were able to furnish the home and pay our way. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.11

Several physicians at different times connected with the work, later going into private practise. In 1899 we were transferred to Adelaide, where we opened a small institute that has been a blessing to the work. By the united efforts of the conference laborers and the medical branch, many accepted the light of the message. In 1900 the Drs. Kress arrived in Sydney to unite with the medical work. The institution which had been continued at Summer Hill was closed after a short time, and they opened work in the Retreat, Cooranbong, near Sydney, continuing there until the building of the Sydney Sanitarium at Wahroonga. This building was completed in 1902. Dr. M. G. Kellogg was the builder and architect, and Brother and Sister Burden did much in getting the work started. On the call of the Drs. Kress to come to Washington in 1907, the Drs. Richards, of England, were invited to take charge of the work at Wahroonga. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.12

The spirit of prophecy has said: “The medical missionary work promises to do more in Australia than it has in America to open the way for the truth to gain access to the people. May the Lord’s people now heed the invitation of God’s opening providence, and realize that it is an opportune time to work.”—Unpublished Testimony, March 3, 1899. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.13

This medical work in Australia has done much for the sick and suffering, in spite of the difficulties it has to contend with. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.14

The Sydney Sanitarium is the training-school for medical missionary nurses, working to supply the islands of the sea. A few weeks ago I received a large order for nurses from Elder Fulton, of the East Indies. He wrote asking me to supply him 100 nurses. I only wish we could. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.15

We have supplied over 20 for the work, and have 37 now in training. We shall have 12 more beginning in November. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.16

The Christ Church Sanitarium, New Zealand, opened in 1896 by Dr. Braucht, and now under the management of A. Brandstater, is still doing a good work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.17

A new sanitarium was opened in Adelaide, in 1908, under the supervision of Dr. James. It is still too young to report much progress, but we trust it will have success, and that God’s blessing will rest upon the work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 284.18

The cafe work is in active progress in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and New Zealand. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.1

The Australasian Good Health is also doing good work. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.2

In conclusion I would say that God has wonderfully blessed this work during this fifteen years, though much more might have been done. We have lived to see it grow from 2 workers to 100, besides 4 institutions, 6 cafes, and a health journal. Thousands have been enlightened in regard to these body- and soul-saving principles. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.3

We are deeply grateful to God for the privilege of being entrusted to sound this precious gospel of health in Australia, and that God, through this entering wedge, has wrought such a glorious work in that land. To him be all the glory. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.4

We have a sanitarium lying idle in Samoa. This ought not to be. We need a consecrated medical missionary physician and wife to connect with that institution. There is one stipulation, however,—that he speak German. That institution should be made a training-school for native nurses to go to the islands. We trust that just the right man can be found. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.5

Japan GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.6

F. W. Field said a few words with reference to conditions and prospects for the medical work in Japan:— GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.7

Since studying the situation, we are satisfied that we can not expect to carry on this line of work in the same way that you might carry on successful medical work in such a field as Korea, China, and others that might be mentioned, and for this reason: There is in Japan to-day a very thorough system of education, including schools for medical education, and these are turning out well-trained doctors by the thousands, who are scattered all over the country. Recognizing the situation, we are satisfied that the best way to carry on the medical missionary work is to follow the methods similar to those followed in this country. For that reason we are planning to enlarge our institutional work, by building a small sanitarium near Tokyo. The little sanitarium in Kobe, under Dr. Noma, is doing a good work, and the institution is bringing people into the truth. We are not calling for a large number of doctors and nurses from the home field with which to do this medical work, because if we can have this institution established, where we can train nurses and young people to go out in the field as medical missionary evangelists, we can do the work more effectively. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.8

W. A. Ruble: We have several others to report, but our time is up. Some of these have reported, or partially reported, in other meetings. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.9

G. A. Irwin: Before adjourning the Conference there is a little matter of business that must be attended to. The secretary will read the minutes of the thirty-first meeting for approval. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.10

The secretary read the minutes of the thirty-first meeting. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.11

M. A. Altman (England): I move that the minutes be approved by vote of the delegation. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.12

F. W. Field (Japan): I second the motion. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.13

The motion was carried unanimously. GCB June 2, 1909, page 285.14

The meeting adjourned.

G. A. IRWIN, Chairman,
W. A. SPICER, Secretary.