General Conference Bulletin, vol. 6
FORTY-THIRD MEETING
W. A. Spicer, C. P. Bollman, I. H. Evans, C. M. Snow, T. E. Bowen
June 6, 9:15 A. M.
A. G. Daniells in the chair. Prayer by R. F. Andrews. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.5
Reports were called for from foreign delegates. F. L. Perry, of Peru, was given opportunity to present that field, as follows:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.6
The Peruvian Mission GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.7
The one hundred Sabbath-keepers of Peru send Christian greetings, and wish me to express their great appreciation of your efforts to send to them a knowledge of the truth of God, and their determination to be true and loyal to the light which unites us all in one common brotherhood. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.8
South America has been called the “neglected continent.” Many of the subdivisions of this great continent lie outside the common routes of world travel. Few books have been written describing them, and therefore comparatively little is known in the northern hemisphere concerning them. But the providence of God is changing all this. As knowledge of the country increases, we find that South America is one of the most interesting parts of the earth. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.9
Peru has an area of about 75,000 square miles. It is as large as all the United States east of the Mississippi River, save Wisconsin and Illinois. The States of Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Idaho, Utah, Colorado, and Arizona, taken together, have less territory than Peru, and a population smaller by about one million. Peru has 1,400 miles of coast-line, and about 6,000 miles of navigable rivers. Its government is a centralized republic, with twenty provinces, and a population of about 4,500,000. The Roman Catholic is the established church, and the constitution prohibits the public exercise of any other faith, this now being the only field in our union where religious liberty has not yet been granted. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.10
The principal industries are agriculture and mining. The chief articles of export are sugar, cotton, rice, coffee, guano, and the various metals found in abundance throughout its territory. Nearly every climatic condition may be found. On the coast it never rains and the lofty mountains present a most barren and desolate aspect; yet there are many exceedingly fertile valleys, which are highly cultivated by means of irrigation. As we ascend the mountains, there is a constant change in the agricultural products. Above an elevation of twelve thousand feet, little is raised except barley and alfalfa, but in many parts there are great herds of sheep, alpaca, vicuna, and llamas, from whose wool the natives spin their own yarn and weave their own clothing. Much wool is also exported. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.11
The eastern slope is a wonderful country. Here at the headwaters of the mighty Amazon, there is an abundance of rain; and the country, with its gigantic and almost impassable forests, presents a surprising wealth of tropical vegetation. The larger part of this slope, called the montanas, is very sparsely settled. Here dwells the uncivilized Indian in his isolation, scarcely coming in contact with the white man. Many of them go entirely without clothing, living upon the natural products of the country, and sometimes making their homes, travelers tell us, in the tops of the trees. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.12
The Peruvian government is making earnest efforts to settle and develop this vast territory, and already thousands of Italians, Germans, and others are located there, and for the most part are doing well. The government will pay the transportation of the colonist to the place, give him a tract of land, and supply each family with about $15 a month, each single adult with $5 a month, for one year, and otherwise assist the colonist in making a start. We would greatly appreciate the coming of two or three German families to settle here, and thus assist in opening the work in this section. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.13
Some have the idea that the Peruvians are only about half-civilized, and lack many of the elements of modern life. It is true that in most parts of the interior, things are in a backward condition; but the dominant class in Peru are as bright, intelligent, and cultured a people as one would wish to find. The oldest university in the New World is in Lima. Its charter was granted by the emperor, Charles V. As an index to the wide-awake character of the people, I need only say that there are published 16 periodicals in the city of Lima, 3 of which are dailies, each with a morning and an evening edition. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.14
OUR WORK
In the year 1905 the South Dakota Conference responded to the call made by Elder J. W. Westphal, and although it was itself in need of workers, volunteered to support the writer in Peru. Before our arrival, some missionary journeys had been made through the country, by brethren from Chile, and a considerable amount of literature had been scattered. We found about fifteen keeping the Sabbath. However, all but four of these had received false doctrines from apostate Chilenos, and the most of them are now groping in darkness. Through the blessing of God, we now have I organized church, 4 companies, and a number of isolated believers—in all about one hundred Sabbath-keepers. During the three years ending Dec. 31, 1908, there was paid in tithes and offerings $1,284,08, making a gain each year of about fifty per cent. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.15
Believing that the circulation of literature is of first importance, especially in a new field, we have tried to encourage this part of the work in every way possible. Our missionary paper, Senales de los Tiempos, has penetrated into all parts of the country, and results are now being seen from these efforts. Frequent letters are received from widely separated points, calling for more reading matter, and pleading for some one to visit them, and teach the truth. Several persons have come from three- to seven-days’ journey to Lima, have attended our meetings, and have there publicly pleaded for a teacher to lead them into the light. Some of these places we have been enabled to visit, and souls are now rejoicing in the new-found love of a compassionate Redeemer. But the unanswered calls and opportunities have burdened our hearts and minds exceedingly, and we have been driven to pray God, and to plead with our brethren in the home land, to send us help. The field is opening wonderfully. The providence of God plainly says that now is the time to push aggressive work 1 in Peru. Effort and money expended here will yield good returns. Some have asked, “Is not Peru a hard field?” It was a hard field; but God’s agency, his mighty spirit has been at work breaking up the hardened soil, and to-day people are accepting the message much more readily than in many other places. Let me cite one or two examples:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.16
A year ago last January I was privileged to visit the city of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. A few copies of the Senales which had preceded me opened the way, and in two days’ time fifteen adults had promised to keep the Sabbath and walk in the light of truth. These have had but little help since except by correspondence, yet they now have a Sabbath-school of twenty-five, and will soon be baptized and organized into a church. From Puno the light has spread through a valley where live 40,000 Indians. An Indian teacher has accepted the truth, and is now teaching his 60 or 70 pupils to believe and obey it. The company at Puno distributes each month at least 150 copies of the Senales. Would that every church in America did as well. Through our paper and our other literature, interests have sprung up in more than a score of places; and if we could but develop these, I am sure we should see similar results in many places. GCB June 7, 1909, page 355.17
From the beginning of our work we have had one native colporteur, who has done good work. Last November, feeling the great need of more help, we sent out a notice that we would hold a canvassers’ institute for a month early in the year. At that time I did not see how I ever could hold this institute, as I was overworked, and not in good health. But almost the next mail brought word that help was on the way, in the person of Elder A. N. Allen. How joyful and comforting are such tidings to those who have been alone for years in a far country! We thanked God, and took courage. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.1
Our institute was held during the month of March. We had hoped that two or three might be prepared to enter the field, but God sent us eight. Just at the beginning of our institute, two young men who had studied for the priesthood began to keep the Sabbath, and dedicated themselves to God and his work. They attended the institute, and are now in the field at work. They are intelligent and active, and with experience will become valued helpers. The first day of the institute, as I stepped out of the door, a young man, a stranger to all of us, drew near, and said, “May I go into the classes?” I took him in, and he never missed a day afterward. He is keeping the Sabbath, and will soon be at work. During the institute another young man, a stranger to us, came to the office one afternoon, and said, “I attended a meeting here about three weeks ago, and you preached about the Sabbath. I have been a Baptist four years, and they have not told me anything about it, but I am convinced that I ought to keep the Sabbath.” He had visited his pastor, but could get no help from him. Rather, he was instructed to take his Bible, and study it out for himself, with the above result. This brother is above the average in intelligence and ability. A few days before I left, he came to me, and said he wanted to dedicate himself wholly to God and his work. So we praise God that he is preparing us help for the future. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.2
We have organized a tract society, and have a little depository in Lima; but we have no secretary to look after this part of the work, and with several canvassers in the field, and other conditions, the superintendent is greatly hindered in visiting other distant parts. We hope that a man may be secured who can act as secretary, and also carry on an active work at the center of the nation. We also must have at once an experienced canvasser, one who can train our loyal and earnest Peruvians to do effective work. We should also have a man to settle in the important city of Arequipa, in the south of Peru. These three men are an absolute necessity, if we expect to see the work move forward as it should. We would gladly receive some nurses, who could, I think, be self-supporting. We also need some one to lead out in the school work; but, in view of the great calls coming before this Conference, we have placed our needs in their lowest terms in calling for the three men mentioned above. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.3
I also with to call the attention of this Conference to the South American Indian problem. There are in this part of the country several millions of Indians, descendants of the ancient Incas. A large portion of these are partly civilized, and have been taught something of Catholicism, which they practice in a most superstitious way. Others there are who have scarcely heard the name of Christ, and dwell in as great heathen darkness as any people on the earth. While planning for the heathen of China, India, and Africa, let us not overlook these millions at our doors. We feel that it is time to do something for them. We have decided that a definite work must be started now, but it is necessary that our brethren in more favored lands help us to make a beginning. We need a farm and school, where we can gather in natives who have ability, and train them quickly to send out into all parts of the country. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.4
While Jesus preached to the great multitudes, and fed the thousands, he also remembered the little ones. He once took a long, tiresome journey up toward Zidon, to help the woman of Sarepta, who dared not plead for even the children’s portion, but was contented with the crumbs that fell beneath the table. So, while this Conference makes—and rightly, too—liberal provision for carrying on the work in the great heathen lands, let us lend a sympathetic ear and a helping hand to this smaller field, whose needs, though not so great, are just as real, and which looks to this Conference with the confident anticipation that these needs will be supplied. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.5
Elder Ed. Thomann, of Bolivia, followed, giving an account of the work in his field:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.6
Bolivia GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.7
In territory Bolivia is the third largest country in South America. Its area is almost a fourth that of the United States. In number of inhabitants, it is the fifth field in our union, having a population of nearly 2,500,000. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.8
The republic is divided into nine departments, most of which have almost all kinds of climates. The most populated district is the high plateaus, which range in altitude from 8,000 to 14,000 feet above the sea-level. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.9
Mining has so far been the chief source of Bolivia’s riches. Agriculture, industry, and commerce are still in a very backward condition. There are very limited facilities for transportation, so that only very few natural products can be exported, and everything that is imported is very expensive. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.10
There are two railway lines—one from Antofagasta, Chile, and another from Mollendo, Peru, which reach to La Paz, the capital. Another line from La Paz to Arica in northern Chile is under construction; and there are prospects that the line extending from Antofagasta to La Paz will in a few years be connected at Uyuni, in the southwest of Bolivia, with one that extends northward through Argentina to the Bolivian border. The northeastern part of the country can be reached from the Brazilian side by way of the Amazon River, And through the La Plata and the Paraguay rivers, the southeastern part of the republic is also accessible. In the remainder of the country, mules, donkeys, and llamas are the principal means of transportation. There is still much unexplored territory, where it is said there are cannibals. But we do not need to be afraid of them. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.11
As far as my knowledge of the people goes, I can say that they are very meek and submissive. Having been ruled for centuries by the Roman Catholic Church, they have lost almost all self-control, and are for that reason very unenterprising. It seems difficult for them to think for themselves. They are accustomed to act as mere automatons, under the influence of the priests. But there is hope for them in the gospel. With patient, persevering labor, they can be brought where they can realize what it means to be responsible for their own souls before God. Romanism has had here unlimited opportunity to show that its influence is directed to rob humanity of its most noble qualities, taking away from them everything that tends to progress. Having had free sway in all its corrupting, soul-destroying tendencies, without being counteracted by the elevating, ennobling influence of Biblical Protestantism, the influence of the church has left the people morally in a more lamentable condition than they were before the Spaniards conquered them. Many of the priests lived evil lives, as in Bolivia almost everybody knows. In many other ways, the example given by the spiritual leaders is anything but Christian. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.12
But in spite of the corruption of the Catholic Church, one finds still some good-hearted, well-meaning souls. Many of these, seeing the condition of Catholicism, and not knowing the teachings of Jesus, turn to skepticism. This is true especially of the well-to-do, which makes it doubly difficult to reach them with the gospel. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.13
One thing at least is favorable for Christ’s messengers, and that is that we now have, by act of Congress, liberty of worship. This, although the people generally are still fanatical and ignorant, gives us the assurance that no law-abiding authorities will join in persecuting those who proclaim the truth. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.14
Very little has been done as yet to enlighten the people of Bolivia with the third angel’s message. Brother Pereira, from Chile, has in past years made several visits to the country; but, because of cruel persecutions, he could do but little. Once he was sentenced to death, and at another time the clergy tried hard to get a similar sentence pronounced upon him. Seven years ago, when, with Brother Escobar, I went there for the first time, three times in one day I was in danger of being killed by the enraged mob. But through all the Lord has stood with us, protecting us, so that no harm was done us. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.15
I could relate many interesting experiences. Once, traveling from Cochabamba to Oruro, having been on muleback a whole day, I came to a small place called Tapacari. I wanted to improve the opportunity to do a little colporteur work with papers. I began to offer them. But I soon found that it was dangerous to attempt this, so I went back to the lodging-place, and early in the morning, before daylight, took a bundle of papers, and, going from house to house, pushed them in under the doors wherever I thought there might be people who could read. Having done this on several of the principal streets, I returned, mounted my mule, and went on. But before I got out of the town, reaching the market-place, I found about one hundred people, many of them with copies of the paper, very enraged, tearing them to pieces, burning them, making many threatening demonstrations against me. Although they spoke mostly in Quechua, which I could not understand, I knew well what they meant. The mule-driver with whom I wen was also in danger for taking a “heretic” along. The Lord kept the mob from harming us, although dirt and stones came flying from many hands. GCB June 7, 1909, page 356.16
But a change is being noticed. Little by little the people are becoming more tolerant; and the danger to missionaries is gradually lessening. Yet none need to think that the time has passed when any one who may kill the messenger will think that he is doing God service. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.1
The Lord has blessed what little has been done to give the message, and in several places there are persons who show an interest in the truth. Although none have united with us yet, there is good prospect that little companies will take a firm stand on the Lord’s side. A part of the last two years I had the privilege of laboring for these people. The Lord gave me generally splendid success in the colporteur work, and I only regret that more could not be done. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.2
We need laborers,—such as the conferences here in the States do not want to get rid of,—brethren who have made a success of whatever they have engaged in, and who will be successful wherever they go,—persons whom you think you can not spare. We need laborers who will come to stay, not two or three years, not until they acquire a knowledge of the language, and begin to be really efficient in their efforts, but who come to remain as long as the Master wants them there. In other words, we need those who will stay and labor perseveringly until they are for some reason called to another field, or until they die, or until Jesus comes. It is a source of discouragement to the believers in the field, and to the local workers, and of perplexity to those who have the work in charge, when one, after a few years’ stay, packs up his things and goes away. We want persons who are willing, if necessary, to die in the field. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.3
Now a few words about the physical condition of those who should come. As most of the traveling has to be done by mule, and many times it will be necessary to walk up and down high mountains, where rarity of air, very cold temperature, heavy rains, and many other inconveniences, make it tiresome and difficult for the laborer, it is clear that strong, healthy persons should be selected. Therefore, if I may be permitted to use the term, I would recommend what you here in America might call “rough riders,”—good, patient, joyful Christians,—for that field. Bolivia is not an inviting country. There are nice spots; but as a whole, it is a difficult, discouraging field; and we need such laborers as can accommodate themselves to almost anything, and who will not complain. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.4
In conclusion, I wish to say that we need workers who are willing to go where nobody else wants to go; who are willing to give up all personal conveniences, to suffer everything for Christ’s sake, and to do whatever comes to their hands to do. Such, if they are gifted with the talent required for a missionary, will be welcomed as candidates for Bolivia. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.5
I pray that the Lord will put the burden on the right kind of persons—such as have made a success already, and not such as will need to be experimented with. Bolivia is too far away for experiments, and it costs too much to get people there to find that they are a failure. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.6
A Medical Missionary’s Experience in Argentina GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.7
The chairman then called upon Dr. R. H. Habenicht, of Argentina, to speak of his work in that field. He said:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.8
I am glad for the privilege of saying a few words more about the work in our field. A few days ago I spoke on the strictly medical work in Argentina. This time I will speak of the general work. We have a cosmopolitan field. Its center is the great city of Buenos Aires, the largest Spanish-speaking city in the world, with a population of 1,300,000. It is the center of intelligence and education. Its universities stand the highest of any in the country. Our nurses can go in there and do general medical missionary work. While they might not be permitted to go out as licensed nurses, and take in patients and treat them on their own responsibility, they would be permitted to do all kinds of general missionary work. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.9
Shortly after I began medical work there, I connected with our school, helping in the teaching, and at the same time carrying on our medical work as best we could. I was called to perform an operation on a gentleman who was suffering with a ruptured intestine. It was a success, but because of an indiscretion on his part, he died later. A party took up the case and wrote an article for a paper, which was published throughout the country. A more venomous article could not have been written. This paper fell into the hands of a man who lived about 700 miles from us. He had sent two daughters to our school. He felt that he must look after the matter, and bring his girls home. So he and his wife came to the school to investigate. When they arrived, we were just getting ready for a general meeting. They attended, and became acquainted with us, and before the meeting closed, the man and his wife and the two girls accepted the truth. Later another daughter came to us, and accepted the truth, and later a son came, and also accepted the truth. He is to-day our conference secretary in the Argentine Conference. So the Lord made the wrath of man to praise him. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.10
I was called one day to see a sick man, suffering from malaria. With a few simple remedies he was soon restored to his normal condition. When the treatment was over—about fourteen had come in to see the treatment—I said, “Our sick man now is better; why can not we have a little meeting?” The man of the house gave his permission. So I talked to them of the goodness of God, telling how the Lord would take away sins, reading especially the thirty-second psalm. After the meeting was over, I said to the people, “If there is any one else that is sick, I would like to visit them. If any of you want to study the Bible, I shall be glad to help you. I shall be glad to visit your homes, and to do all I can for you.” From that moment, I could not possibly answer the calls that came. Every moment of the day was occupied. The people came from all quarters. We had meetings at night, and the house and the yard were full to overflowing. Before leaving that place, we were able to organize a church of 32 members, and 14 were waiting to be taken into the church, but because of conditions in their social life, they could not be received at the time. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.11
From there we went further into the country, over the old Jesuit mission fields. The Lord gave us some signal victories in working for people, in bringing them to the light of truth. In that country, where the Jesuit missions were established, we have churches praising the Lord for the present truth that has come to them. If we could only have the proper workers, there is no limit to this kind of work which the Lord could do through us. If we had hundreds of people properly trained, in whose hearts the love of this message is the first thing, we could place them all over the field, and they would be lights wherever they are. GCB June 7, 1909, page 357.12
Even those on the farms can do a good work. One man who was in our school at one time went out to a farm. He sent word for me to visit him, and I spent three days there. Several times during the day we held public meetings with the people, and we had blessed seasons. Later Elder Westphal went down and baptized a number, and organized an earnest church, all as the result of the work done by this missionary farmer. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.1
We have many experiences not so pleasant. Once we had to make a journey of about three days’ ride; but the heavy rains made it impossible to cross the rivers, and we were greatly delayed, and found it almost impossible to get food, so that during the three days we had very little to eat. When we came to the swollen rivers, we had to swim across, and by means of a rope suspended across the river, would pull our things across, and get our horses over, and proceed on our way. Many people lose their lives in trying to cross these streams in the interior of the country. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.2
It is an inspiration to me to baptize believers, and to know that for the first time in the history of that country a real baptism has been celebrated. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.3
One young man, a physician in this country, wrote me about going there. I told him some of the things it was necessary for a doctor to do there, that he would have to take hold and give treatments. He replied that he did not think that he would give treatments; that was a nurse’s business. Now that kind of physicians we do not need there; but if you have young men who are not afraid of work, and who will tell the people of this precious truth, we have room for hundreds of such. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.4
Now some people ask about the climate. Well, the climate is governed a good deal by the climate of one’s own heart. Here is a recipe for climatic conditions, which it seems to me is very good: If you have your heart all full and warm with the truth, it does not make much difference where you go because if you go to a cold climate, you have enough warmth in your heart to keep you warm there; but if you go to a hot climate, you are used to it, because you have enough warmth in your heart to stand it. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.5
May the Lord bless our dear workers, and give them the spirit of this message, and help them not to think of the blessings and pleasures and joys of home, but to think of the homeless in this world of sin, think of those who know nothing of this message in the darkened countries, where the message has never gone. When thinking of other places, think of dark Argentina. May God help us to realize the fields that are before us in this dark world, and give us wisdom in selecting where he would have us go, and help us in carrying the message in all its purity. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.6
A. G. Daniells: We have now had presented the reports from all our foreign fields, with the exception of the report from Brother N. Z. Town, who will report for Argentina:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.7
Argentina GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.8
Argentina is the second largest republic of South America, having an area of 1,200,000 square miles, a territory larger than all of the United States east of the Mississippi River. It is twelve times larger than Great Britain, and five times as large as France. The population is about 7,000,000. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.9
THE COUNTRY
The river La Plata, which drains a large portion of Argentina, is the second largest river in the world. At its mouth it is 176 miles wide. Steamers make regular trips up this great water-course to Cuyaba in Brazil, a distance of 2,300 miles. There are 14,000 miles of railways in Argentina. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.10
Buenos Aires, the capital city, with its 1,300,000 inhabitants, is the metropolis of South America, the fourth city in size on the American continent, the largest Spanish-speaking city in the world, and is said to be more cosmopolitan even than New York. The excellent climate of Argentina, which is similar to that of California, the fertility of her soil, unsurpassed in any part of the world, and the stability of her government, are attracting hundreds of thousands of immigrants to her shores every year from the Old World. During the year 1907 over 30,000 ships entered Buenos Aires harbor from all quarters of the globe. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.11
Not long ago a college professor in the United States wrote to a friend of his in Argentina saying that he was planning to visit that country on a hunting expedition, and inquired if he would be allowed to shoot wild cattle in the vicinity of Buenos Aires. We smile at this absurdity, but it illustrates the quite common idea that prevails in the United States concerning Argentina and other South American countries. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.12
There are immense herds of cattle on the Argentine plains, but every one has its owner’s mark, and there are no finer cattle in the world. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.13
There is freedom of worship, but Roman Catholicism is the state religion of Argentina. None but Roman Catholics are eligible to the presidency. Speaking of the Romanism of Latin America, one writer says: “We find there the very lowest and most degraded form of Romanism that can be conceived. Some European and American Roman Catholics who go there will not recognize it as their religion, but prefer to attend the Protestant churches.” GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.14
Gross superstition still prevails even in progressive Argentina. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.15
But in one particular of religion, the country is as far advanced as the United States. This is in the matter of Sunday laws. When we went to Buenos Aires from Scotland, where Sunday is so strictly observed, it seemed strange to us to see all the shops open there on Sunday, the same as on week days; but now it seems strange to see them all closed on Sunday. Buenos Aires as well as several of the provinces has a strict Sunday law. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.16
At the beginning of the quadrennial period ending Dec. 31, 1908, Argentina formed a part of the River Plate Conference, which also included the republics of Uruguay and Paraguay. In 1906, when the South American Union Mission was organized into a union conference, Paraguay and the Argentine territory of Misiones were set apart as a separate mission field, as was also Uruguay. The name of our conference was then changed to the Argentine Conference, which embraces the Argentine Republic with the exception of the territory cut off with Paraguay. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.17
Owing to the loss of members when the field was reorganized in 1906, the total gain in membership is not as large as it would otherwise have been. There are at present 16 churches, with a membership of 549. During 1908 75 were added by baptism. Our Argentine brethren show a spirit of faithfulness and liberality which is increasing year by year. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.18
STATISTICS
During 1906, the first year after the field was reorganized, the tithe paid in Argentina amounted to $4,317, which was $8.27 per capita; in 1907, to $6,179, or $12.36 per capita; in 1908 the tithe was $8,630, or $15.72 per capita. The total tithe given during the four years was $25,342. Other donations given would bring the total up to more than $30,000. that Argentina has given to the work during the last four years. GCB June 7, 1909, page 358.19
There are 3 ordained ministers, 2 licentiates, 9 missionary licentiates, 2 physicians, and 2 nurses actively engaged in the work in Argentina. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.1
LITERATURE
The circulation of our literature has been one of the most successful means in bringing people to the truth, and our canvassers, as well as our ministers, have had many interesting experiences. Our students have had excellent success selling our missionary paper La Verdad Presente, and taking subscriptions in the cities and towns. During the last vacation one young lady earned sufficient canvassing for this paper, to pay for two yearly scholarships in our missionary training-school. Just before leaving Argentina last year, an interesting letter was received from a man into whose hands had fallen a copy of La Verdad Presente. An article on hypnotism had arrested his attention, as he was a Spiritualist. As he read the article, the Spirit of the Lord worked upon his heart in such a way that he began to search the Bible, and was soon convinced of the truth. He at once began to labor with his father, who was a government school-teacher. Later he and his family attended a local camp-meeting, and he, with his parents, two brothers, and a sister, was baptized. This man is a person of some talent, and author of several books. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.2
When the canvassing work first started in Argentina, Brother Stauffer sold a copy of “Great Controversy” to a French-Swiss farmer, a worldly man who had no interest in religion. He put the book away, after reading it, where it lay in obscurity for twelve years. On the train one day, as he was returning home from the city intoxicated, a Bible colporteur sold him a Bible. He was so overcome by drink when he reached home that he fell from his chair, and passed the night on the floor. The following morning the Bible he had bought the night before attracted his attention, and he began to read it. He soon became interested, and as he read, he remembered “Great Controversy.” He brought it out, and was struck to see how it agreed with the Bible. As he read his book in connection with the Bible, he was convicted of sin, and soon gave up drinking, and later left off using tobacco. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.3
Later another canvasser and myself passed that way, and took this man’s subscription for our Spanish paper. Seeing a notice in this paper of a camp-meeting to be held in his province, he came, thinking to stay two days. But he stayed until the meeting was over, responded liberally to every call for means, and at its close was baptized. He also supplied himself with nearly every book we had in French or Spanish. He has remained a faithful witness to the truth, and the Lord has since prospered him in every way. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.4
ITINERATING
As a rule our workers are hospitably received as they travel among the people, but some of their experiences are far from romantic. It is no uncommon experience for our workers to travel for days at a time on horseback, their only bed at night being their saddles spread upon the ground. I will not describe the food we sometimes get, but we are often glad to remember the promise: “If ye eat any deadly thing, it shall not hurt you.” GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.5
Brother Westphal and I were to meet to hold a two-days’ meeting in northern Argentina. The trip had to be made on horseback, and just before reaching the place, we had to ford a river. I reached there safely, but Brother Westphal was hindered on the way, so he was a day late. The evening before he arrived, there was a hard rain, and the next morning the river was very much swollen with a swift current. When he reached the stream, it was a question how to cross. He finally solved the problem by putting his clothes on his head, having his horse swim through, and he himself wading with the water up to his chin. This was in August, one of the coldest winter months. But he suffered no harm, and within an hour after his plunge was preaching us a rousing sermon. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.6
PUBLISHING
As stated by Brother Westphal, the printing plant in Argentina does not belong wholly to our conference, but we are a part of the concern. This plant is located in Florida, a small town ten miles from Buenos Aires. The building stands upon a lot 60 x 120 feet. This is also the headquarters of the South American Union Conference and of the Argentine Conference. The building consists of four rooms,—an office room, a book depository, type- and press-room, and a living-room. Here are published our Spanish missionary paper, La Verdad Presente, and the Spanish Union Conference paper. We have also published several Spanish tracts. Our press is a small cylinder hand-press, which prints two pages of our missionary paper at a time. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.7
No appropriations have ever been made by the Mission Board to help establish the publishing work in our field. We have made only a small beginning, but what we have has been secured with funds raised in the field. But we hope for better things after this Conference. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.8
EDUCATIONAL
Our missionary training-school also belongs to the three River Plate fields, but is located in Argentina. The Argentine brethren and sisters give it their loyal support. Out of an attendance of 80 last year all the students except 2 were from the Argentine Conference. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.9
At a camp-meeting held last October in the province where the school is located, the brethren gave about three thousand Argentine pesos to this school and to the new sanitarium enterprise. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.10
As noble a class of young people are to be found in this school as in any of our schools in the United States. During the school term last year, one young man who was in the school preparing to enter the work, was called from his studies to military service. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.11
His example of faithfulness has been a great help to our young people in Argentina. Brethren, if all we have done for South America, if all the offerings you have made and the difficulties we have encountered there, had resulted in nothing more than the conversion of this one young man, would it not be worth the investment? GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.12
We are glad for what has been accomplished in Argentina. We are especially thankful for the response of the Mission Board to the calls that have been made for workers. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.13
THE FUTURE
But Argentina still needs more workers. We should have at least two more ordained ministers, and a good man for our office in Florida. Our printing plant, school, and sanitarium should each receive liberal financial aid properly to equip them to do the work they are designed to do, and we trust that they will receive the needed help from this Conference. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.14
The outlook for the work there never was brighter. For several years past Argentina has enjoyed an unusual degree of prosperity. There is probably no country in the world at the present that is attracting the attention of financiers more than the Argentine Republic, one writer calling it “The Land of Opportunity.” When Mr. Root visited us three years ago, he named it “The Land of To-morrow.” It certainly is a land of opportunity for the promulgation of this message at the present time. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.15
We believe there is a successful future before the canvassing work in that field, and we greatly appreciate the sacrifice our German brethren in the West have made in releasing Brother Max Trummer to take charge of the book work in our field. Argentina is with you, brethren, heart and soul for the finishing of this work in this generation. GCB June 7, 1909, page 359.16
Following the reports a fifteen-minute recess was taken. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.1
After the recess, prayer was offered by R. M. Kilgore. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.2
G. Dail submitted a final report from the Committee on Plans and Finance, which was read, action being deferred until the previous reports were taken up. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.3
Adoption of Resolutions GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.4
On motion to adopt, Resolutions 65 to 69 (page 330) were considered. By amendment to the report, Section 2 of Resolution 67, and Resolution 68, were referred to the General Conference Committee for consideration and recommendation, with the understanding that these details would need more thorough consideration by committees and conferences and sanitarium boards before definite action is taken. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.5
As amended, the report was adopted. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.6
The chairman called attention to the further partial report from the Committee on Plans and Finance, on page 344. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.7
Motion was made to adopt. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.8
Resolution 70, on the book “Hymns and Tunes,” was considered. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.9
G. I. Butler: I have a few words I would like to say on this subject. There have been a variety of important subjects introduced here, until you are almost weary of them, I suppose, but I have heard nothing on the great department of music. I felt a little interest in this matter, so I put in a resolution to this effect. Music is a very important part in the worship of God. It seems to me that this resolution is very opportune. You all know the old volume that we prize so much, “Hymns and Tunes.” But that old hymn-book seems to be passing away, and other hymn-books are coming in which, with all due respect, I must say are inferior to the old one. That hymn-book was brought in twenty-three years ago, and I have never heard of its being voted out by the General Conference. It was the General Conference that authorized its publication, for, as president of the General Conference at that time, I introduced a resolution providing for the publication of this book. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.10
Careful examination was made of the hymnals of many denominations, and contributions of hymns new and old were received from many sources. The work of selecting and arranging and publishing a collection suitable for church worship was entrusted to a group of persons chosen because of their special fitness for this task. Long and arduously they labored, and finally our denomination had a hymn-book that met with favor. This hymnal has stood the test of time, and for many years it has been in almost universal use. But of late I have observed in increasing tendency to use other collections, which, while good in many respects, fail, in my judgment, to meet the needs of our denomination. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.11
It is difficult for me to express myself regarding this matter. For many years it has been my practise, when preparing to speak in public, to choose hymns that will impress the truths that I desire to present before the congregation; and I have always thought that the closing hymn should be the “cap-sheaf,” so to speak, of the service. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.12
During the recent past, I have almost despaired of following my customary practise of choosing these hymns; for I find, when meeting with our people, that often churches are using books that do not contain some of the hymns that I had chosen from our church hymnal. Instead, we often hear “jingly” tunes that fail to appeal to my sense of propriety in sacred worship. I do not know just why we so often see and hear these modern musical compositions used instead of the good old standard tunes; but there is some reason. Possibly those who compose these new tunes wish to see them included in our books. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.13
And so, Brother Chairman, I would suggest that in the carrying out of this resolution, care be exercised to carry it out in the reverential spirit in which it has been framed. We must not lose sight of the importance of singing the good old advent hymns that were sung with the spirit and the understanding by our people in former days. There is power in an advent hymn, sung from the heart; we must introduce into our worship more of the spirit of the advent message. Let us plan to the end of having a good hymnal that can be used in a variety of services. By dropping out of the present collection some selections that have not met with much favor, and some, too, that were inserted contrary to the wishes of many, we shall have room for some of the better modern songs used in revival services, and for some songs for the children as well. A hymnal of this sort could be used not only in connection with preaching services, but in our Sabbath-schools, children’s meetings, and elsewhere. I long to see a revival of interest in these grand old hymns that have been associated so intimately with the advancement of the third angel’s message all through these years. Let us plan to bring this about. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.14
Question was called. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.15
Resolutions 71 and 72 were read, and question called without discussion. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.16
Resolution 73, encouraging those in the United States speaking a foreign tongue to work for people of that language, was read. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.17
Allen Moon: I was deeply impressed with the importance of doing more for the foreign peoples in America, last winter, in Chicago, while attending the Catholic Missionary Council, and listening to the plans laid by that denomination. They outlined a plan of placing a missionary priest in every community in America, colonizing the immigrants from other lands into localities, as far as possible, and placing them under these missionary priests; and when the plan was perfected, it seemed to reach every nationality coming to this country, and every community in the land. I thought that we were far behind in this matter of planning for the peoples of other tongues that are coming to this country. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.18
We have young men and young women from various nationalities, who have accepted the truth; and these we should encourage to perfect themselves in their own language, rather than allow them to drift into English work. In the city of Chicago are people from almost every country under heaven. That city is a vast field for missionary work, and it is just as fruitful a field as any of these countries from which the people came. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.19
Question was called. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.20
Question was called on Resolutions 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.21
The report was then adopted. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.22
Final Report from Committee on Plans and Finance GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.23
For the Committee on Plans and Finance, Guy Dail, the secretary, presented a final report. Other resolutions that had come in too late for the committee to act upon were also introduced. These were read, and, with some amendments, adopted as follows:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.24
APPROPRIATIONS
81. We recommend, That further appropriations be made to the evangelical work during 1909 as follows: Greater New York Conference, $5,000; Chesapeake Conference, $750; Virginia Conference, $750. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.25
82. We recommend, That all other requests for appropriations be referred to the General Conference Committee. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.26
83. We recommend, That the General Conference Committee be authorized to make such changes in the appropriations granted for the evangelical work as the demands of the various fields seem to make necessary. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.27
MIDSUMMER OFFERING
Whereas, The midsummer offering, of Sabbath, July 3, is right upon us, at a time when the mission treasury is in great need, and unable to provide the means to send to the fields many consecrated workers who are ready to go in response to the Macedonian cry; therefore,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.28
84. Resolved, That we urge all our people to pray and work with special earnestness at this time to make the mid-summer offering the largest we have ever received at the midsummer season, in order that laborers may be hastened forth to the fields white for the harvest. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.29
MISSIONARY INGATHERING CAMPAIGN
Whereas, The Thanksgiving missionary campaign last year was a great success in bringing the truth of the message and its progress before the world, and in gathering funds for the extension of our missionary work; therefore,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.30
85. Resolved, That a missionary number of the Review and Herald be issued for 1909, and that a vigorous campaign be inaugurated for its circulation, the date of the campaign to be fixed by the General Conference Committee. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.31
STATISTICAL REPORT, PER CAPITA BASIS
Whereas, There is need of slight changes in the matter of our statistical reports; therefore,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.32
86. Resolved, (a) That the per capita basis of the computation of the funds raised by each conference shall be the reported membership of organized churches and companies. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.33
(b) That the annual statistical reports of the statistical secretary shall be accepted as official by the denomination; and that the church-membership given in the Year Book shall agree with the membership published in the preceding statistical report, and shall constitute the basis for the per capita computation of funds. GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.34
HEALTH FOOD INTERESTS
Believing that our health food interest may be greatly advanced by unifying the work of the several factories; therefore,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 360.35
87. We recommend, That the General Conference Committee appoint a chairman and secretary to work for the best interests of the health food business, and suggest a general council to be held in some central place, with the idea of unifying the health food business, and giving attention to the best methods of marketing the products. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.1
INDEX NUMBER, BULLETIN
Whereas, During the coming four years the GENERAL CONFERENCE BULLETIN will be in constant use as a source of reference, therefore,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.2
88. We recommend, That the closing number of the BULLETIN contain all the resolutions passed at this Conference, the revised Constitution, and an index of the Conference proceedings. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.3
TO THE PRESS
89. Resolved, That we express appreciation of the courtesies extended by the general and local press to our meeting; and, further,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.4
90. Resolved, That the secretary of the General Conference be asked to communicate this action to the press. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.5
SYMPATHY WITH ARMENIAN BELIEVERS
Prof. H. R. Salisbury read the following report from the committee appointed to draw up a message of sympathy with our Armenian brethren in Turkey:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.6
To Our Brethren and Sisters in the Turkish Empire, GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.7
GREETING: Revelation 14:12, 13. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.8
The delegates assembled at the World’s Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Takoma Park, Washington, D. C., United States of America, have been filled with deep sorrow as we have heard of the sore affliction which has befallen you. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.9
Our hearts rejoiced when we heard the glad news that religious liberty had been granted to you, but our rejoicing has been turned into sorrow, and we have been made inexpressibly sad by the grievous intelligence that some among you of our brethren and sisters in Christ have suffered death during the recent massacres. We assure the survivors of our deepest sympathy and of our financial assistance in case of need. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.10
Our God is of great mercy, and while we may not be able to understand why he permits these severe trials, yet we are comforted with the assurance that his love for his children is infinite. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.11
We sorrow with you in your great grief, and pray that this sad experience may but bring you nearer to God, and lead you to a deeper consecration, filling you with greater zeal to finish this blessed work that has been given us to do. When that work is completed, it will bring an end to suffering and death, and usher in the everlasting kingdom of the Prince of peace. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.12
The entire congregation voted for this message of sympathy by rising. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.13
Resolution 35, page 243 of the BULLETIN (on lengthened nurses’ courses), action upon which had been deferred until to-day, was read and adopted. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.14
ON DEATH OF ELDER C. J. HERRMANN
I. H. Evans: Since we have been here in session, one of our dear brethren in the ministry has died on the grounds, at the sanitarium. I refer to our Brother Herrmann, of Wisconsin. I would like to move that we instruct the secretary to draft a resolution to be forwarded to his wife and children, expressing the sympathy of this Conference in their great loss. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.15
C. McReynolds: I second the motion. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.16
The entire congregation expressed their sympathy by a rising vote. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.17
FROM DELEGATES FROM ABROAD
The following resolution from the delegates from other countries, presented in their behalf by H. J. Edmed, of South Africa, was then read, and adopted by a rising vote of the foreign delegates:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.18
Whereas, During our attendance at this Conference, we have enjoyed the kind hospitality and liberal manner in which the Conference has entertained the foreign delegates,—a task which we fully appreciate has involved great expense of means, energy, and thought,—and many helpers have faithfully assisted in discharging the duties which such an arrangement has demanded; therefore,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.19
Resolved, That we desire to express and have recorded our grateful thanks for these favors; and, further,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.20
That we also express our deep gratitude for the kind and patient attention given by this Conference to our many reports, and also for the liberal and self-sacrificing response that has been voted to our appeals for larger appropriations and help for the work in distant lands. We fully realize that what has been decided at this gathering will impose much patient, perplexing, painstaking, and constant labor upon those who must endeavor to transform these resolutions into facts, and we pledge ourselves to God and to you in God’s strength to strive to be worthy of your confidence in our future labor. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.21
A. G. Daniells: I am sure I can say for our brethren here that it has been a great pleasure for us to have you with us [many amens], and to do what little we have in the way of entertainment. I sincerely hope that is has been agreeable to you, and that you will always remember with pleasure your session with us here, and the blessings of this splendid Conference. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.22
O. A. Olsen: There is an item on page 330 of the last BULLETIN respecting the name of C. W. Flaiz. At the time the report was considered, I was not present. This name was brought in for nomination to the secretaryship of the North American Negro Department. I wish to say to the Conference that we have given this matter very much thought and prayerful consideration. We realize the importance of the move, the responsibility involved in it, and the need of the right man to take hold of the work; and I am sorry to say that we have not yet reached the point where we have a name to present before you. Brother Flaiz would be an excellent one to fill the needs of the department, but after having acted upon his name as a committee, he came before us, and presented the condition of his health. After hearing that, we felt it would not be right to lay this additional burden upon him, under present conditions, and for that reason we did not feel free to have that name acted upon. We have considered other names, but do not feel free to-day to place them before the Conference for action. I move that we refer this appointment to the General Conference Committee. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.23
The motion was duly seconded and carried. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.24
O. A. Olsen: I would further move that the appointment of the transportation agents, and the auditors, be referred to the General Conference Committee. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.25
The motion was seconded and carried. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.26
A. G. Daniells: The time has come for us to adjourn sine die. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.27
W. H. Thurston: I move we adjourn sine die. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.28
J. O. Corliss: I second the motion. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.29
A. G. Daniells: A good many of us would like to say something, but we must not. Of course we are grateful to God for his blessings during this Conference. Those in favor of adjourning will stand. The meeting is adjourned. Let us sing “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow.” GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.30
Elder George I. Butler then pronounced the following benediction:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.31
“We thank thee, our Heavenly Father for all the blessings we have enjoyed here. We thank thee that thou hast been so good to us, and given us so many privileges, and that we have had so many opportunities to listen to the various reports that have come in from different parts of the world. And now, as we are about to close our relation to the General Conference in session, we ask that thy special blessing rest upon every member of the General Conference who shall go forth to the different fields of labor. Especially do we pray that thy blessing may rest upon our dear missionaries who are going to foreign lands, to places of hardship and difficulty. Be a guide to them in all their trials, preserve their lives, and help them in bringing precious souls to thy kingdom. Bless us as we separate, guide us through life, and finally save us in thy glorious kingdom, for Christ’s sake. Amen.” GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.32
A. G. DANIELLS, Chairman,
W. A. SPICER, Secretary.
FOREIGN MISSION SEMINARY
A legal meeting of the Washington Training College was called Thursday, June 3, 1909, at 9:15 A. M., A. G. Daniells, president of the board, in the chair. A quorum was present. GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.33
The president of the school, Prof. H. R. Salisbury, rendered the following report of the work of the Seminary:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.34
The Seminary
Two years ago at the biennial session of the General Conference Council at Gland, Switzerland, the first plans were laid for the establishment of the Foreign Mission Seminary. The reasons given were these:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.35
When our delegates assembled there from the different parts of the world, each brought with him from his field an earnest request for more laborers. The two years which had succeeded the General Conference of 1905 in Washington, D. C., had been a time of spiritual and numerical growth in our mission fields, so that our brethren in charge of those fields, and our leading brethren who returned to the Council after visiting foreign fields, brought so many definite requests that the Council found itself veritably besieged by the demands for more help. Many of these requests seemed imperative and undeniable, and when all were placed before our brethren, they found themselves face to face with a situation whose necessities rivaled anything that had been before demanded of them. In addition to the situation created by this great number of requests there arose also a second and a third condition to be met which, while not entirely new, were at least greatly emphasized by the then existing conditions. The second was revealed in a plea that the workers hereafter to be sent out should, if possible, have a better general education. Thirdly, it was found that in nearly all instances the fields yet to be entered would be far more difficult than those that had heretofore been entered, so that it was manifest that it was not only, first a lack of workers, and second, too plainly a lack of sufficient training on the part of those whose names were under consideration, but it was found that as the calls which now come are from lands where new languages must be learned and greater privations endured, it became incumbent upon the mission board to plan for special training to meet these conditions. The following recommendation was therefore drawn up:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 361.36
“That in order to accomplish these ends, we request the trustees of the Washington Training College to so change their course of study and plans of operation as to make that institution a distinctively foreign mission training-school.” GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.1
This recommendation was further agreed to by a meeting of the constituency held in Philadelphia, Nov. 15-20, 1907. This Foreign Mission Seminary has, therefore, been in operation for two years. The first year.—that is, last year,—the attendance was 86, and this year, which closed just before the opening of this Conference, the attendance was 102. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.2
Students in the Field
Although we have been in operation less than two years, and this year’s students have, with few exceptions, not yet received their appointments to foreign fields, students from this Seminary are already in the following countries: 2 in Norway, 2 in China, 2 in Bengal, 2 in North India, 1 in South India, 1 in Burma, 1 in Australasia, 2 in British Guiana, 2 in Peru, 2 in Ecuador, 1 in Argentina, 2 in Guatemala, and 2 in Jamaica. It should be borne in mind, as I have already said, that this year’s appointments have not yet been made, and will probably include almost as many more as have already been mentioned, with quite as wide a distribution; for we have them here under tentative appointment for every continent as well as the islands of the sea. There have been also a few who have gone out from the Seminary into ministerial work in this country, and others will go out at the close of this Conference. Several have been attracted by the strong course which we give in Bible and history and the work in pastoral training, and have been here taking special work in ministerial lines. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.3
Courses of Study
During the past two years we have endeavored to give strong groups of studies, in order that the student might gain that necessary fitting which will enable him to meet the many difficulties and perplexities which come to one as a missionary in the regions beyond. We have given thorough work in Bible, adapting it to the needs of those who must enter into public work as evangelists or Bible workers, supplemented by that history which would make them intelligent interpreters of the prophecies, also special work in pastoral training to enable the student to express himself with that clearness and naturalness which would command the respect of his hearers. We have also taught to the advanced students the Hebrew and Greek, that they might get a better grasp of the inspired Word in its original form. In the modern languages, we have taught in the past two years French, German, Spanish, Chinese, and Hindi. In the medical department, we have had classes in tropical medicine, general diseases, tropical hygiene, sanitation, dietetics, massage, hydrotherapy, bandaging, as well as advanced physiology. It is this department that we wish especially to strengthen the coming year; for it is being brought to us more and more that the greater number of our foreign missionaries must be given a practical course in nursing while with us. We may not be able to give the technical and professional course outlined in medical institutions, but we must have continually in operation in this Foreign Mission Seminary a nurses’ training course, which will make it possible for every student going out from this Seminary to foreign fields who is not already a trained nurse to have sufficient knowledge of that most necessary subject to be able not only to care for himself, but also his fellow workers or the people for whom he is laboring. We have done something toward this work in the past, but will not be satisfied until we have in operation and preparation a course which, while for the present to some extent limited, shall nevertheless be practical. Our foreign missionary workers are by actual experience having it most forcibly brought home to them that by this kind of work can they best obtain a hold among heathen nations, and those hearts which have thus far failed to respond to the gospel message. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.4
Aside from the general course which I have outlined, we have also made progress in the industries. We have connected with the Seminary three industries,—farming, tent-making, and printing. Our printing establishment has been especially blessed both financially and in the work it has been able to give to the students in the eighteen months it has been in operation. We hope that our plans for that industry may be enlarged so that a considerable number of our young men may have a working knowledge of that important industry before leaving for foreign fields. With the well-equipped plant we already have through the generosity of the Board, it would need but little more enlarging to enable a large proportion of our students to gain while here a fairly good idea of the printing trade, and the printing office would be as large as any they would be likely to enter in foreign fields, so that they would be able to work here in an office of about the same equipment that they would have in other lands. Our tent factory, although in operation but a few months, has made a good beginning and several presidents in the surrounding conferences have given us their orders for tents for this summer’s meetings. If we still show ourselves worthy of consideration, we shall be able the coming year to give a larger number of students work and to send into the fields beyond students proficient in that excellent trade. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.5
Scholarships
We wish we might express in a suitable way our appreciation to the young people of the United States for the help they have rendered us through scholarships. Some of our conferences have not understood this matter, but there have been a sufficient number who have interested themselves in this up to the present so that the past year we were able to bring in several students of promise who could never have been with us had it not been for the scholarship. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.6
It has been of great help to the Mission Board to be able to come in close touch with the students we have had here, and to be able to visit our Seminary from time to time, and select and send away, almost on a moment’s notice, students in attendance. These calls were urgent and yet of such importance as made it desirable for the Board to meet and become personally acquainted with, those whom they were sending away. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.7
May I point out, as I close, that I trust we may duly appreciate what it means from this time on to send of our best by scores into fields in which the languages are difficult; the customs strange; the manners hostile; the religions hoary with tradition, full of deception, delighting in works and mocking at faith; and, above all, to the loneliness of isolation, the constant danger from a multitude of diseases none too kind to the native, and all too often fatal to the missionary. We must not ask our sons and daughters to face the loneliness, and expose themselves to the dangers, at the risk of their lives, until we have done all we can in the home land to give them, as far as lies in our power, that necessary and intelligent training which will enable them to meet and grapple with these obstacles in a way to bring success to the missionary, and ultimate victory to the cause of present truth. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.8
The chairman again called on H. R. Salisbury, the treasurer, to present the treasurer’s report; which he did. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.9
We are unable to set up the tabular report in these columns. It showed the following facts:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.10
| RESOURCES | ||
| Real estate | $79,813.42 | |
| Inventories | 7,872.29 | |
| Accounts receivable | 5,076.58 | |
| Total resources | $92,762.29 | |
| LIABILITIES | ||
| Annuities | $15,400.00 | |
| Accounts payable | ||
| including notes | 26,453.89 | |
| Total liabilities | $41,853.89 | |
| Present worth, June 30, 1908 | $50,908.40 | |
The Committee on Nominations for trustees rendered the following report, through its secretary, W. J. Fitzgerald: A. G. Daniells, H. R. Salisbury, W. W. Prescott, I. H. Evans, W. A. Ruble, G. B. Thompson, G. A. Irwin, F. Griggs, F. M. Wilcox. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.11
The report was adopted unanimously. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.12
W. J. Fitzgerald also presented the following report from the Committee on Recommendations:— GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.13
I. Resolved, That we approve the action of the General Conference Committee Council, held at Gland, Switzerland, in May, 1907, providing that the Washington Training College henceforth be conducted as the Washington Foreign Mission Seminary. GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.14
Whereas, The Washington Foreign Mission Seminary has been established to give special preparation to volunteers for the foreign mission fields of the world; and,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 362.15
Whereas, It has no definite territory from which to draw students and funds; therefore,— GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.1
2. Resolved, That we request the General Conference to take the ownership and management of this institution, and to assume its obligations. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.2
On motion to adopt the report, Resolution 1 was read and adopted by vote without discussion. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.3
Resolution 2 was read. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.4
A. G. Daniells made a few remarks in regard to the resolution. He stated that the trustees and members of the General Conference Committee had considered the question very carefully during the past year, and had felt that this action ought to be taken. He showed how the Training School was different from ordinary colleges or academies, in the respect that they did not attempt so much to take students through the regular courses, as to take volunteers for mission fields, and prepare them by special work for the fields to which they are going. Some of these might have been graduated from academies and colleges, and others had perhaps limited educational requirements, but were possessed of good missionary timber, willing to go out to some hard, difficult field, and do successful work, with a year or two special work at this school. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.5
He stated further that the institution has no definite territory. The students come from all over the United States. The board of management has always been made up of General Conference men. There are no others here to take the management of the institution. It therefore seems more consistent for the General Conference itself to own the plant, to take its management, and to secure the students as a part of its work of securing and sending missionaries to the field. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.6
In reply to question, it was stated that the property would likely be held by the General Conference Corporation, which is the legal arm of the General Conference unincorporated. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.7
A. T. Robinson: Would there still be a necessity for the Washington Training College to exist? GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.8
A. G. Daniells: This question as to whether the present association should be dissolved, would have to be taken up for careful study. Are you ready for the question? GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.9
Upon call of question, the recommendation was put to vote and carried, with one dissenting vote. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.10
The Washington Training College Association meeting was adjourned, by vote of the constituency. GCB June 7, 1909, page 363.11
A. G. DANIELLS, Chairman,
W. A. SPICER, Secretary.