General Conference Bulletin, vol. 3
“THE CHRISTIAN RECORD.”
L. A. HOOPES
Perhaps many of our readers do not know that there is such a paper as the Christian Record. It is a magazine printed in point-letters for the blind. Two systems of point-print are used: Improved Braille and New York Point. This is different from the old style of raised letters, and is what is being taught in institutions for the blind throughout the country. The paper is published under the name of the International Tract Society, the stereotyping, printing, and mailing being done at the General Conference offices in Battle Creek, Mich. It is issued monthly, at a subscription price of $1.50 a year. The first number was issued in January, 1900. The workers on the magazine have been paid by the General Conference, thus far. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.3
There is a large field among the blind people, which is practically unentered. There are nearly two hundred thousand blind persons in the United States, and very little has been done to bring the knowledge of the third angel’s message before them. The facilities for their education are very meager. It may be urged that nearly every State has its school for the blind. That is true, but you would be surprised to learn how the general trend for the education of the blind runs. Works of fiction, novels, books of a character to give a worldly mold are, being published, while as yet there is not a Bible printed in the Improved Braille. There is a Bible published in the New York Point. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.4
It will be observed that much of our work is of an educational nature. It must bear in itself the fragrance and sweet savor of renewed hearts. Our work must be of such a character that it will open the doors of State institutions and homes where blind people are, and then the same spirit must work on the hearts of the blind who read our literature. We must interest this class of readers in a thorough study of the Holy Scriptures, and trust that the same Spirit that inspired the Scriptures, will carry conviction of the special messages for this time. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.5
We should never forget that unless we have ears to listen to what we say, we can do but little good. Once the Saviour wrought a miracle in restoring an ear that had been cut off. We must get the ears of the people. We must also exercise tact, and not cut off the ears of those for whom we would labor. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.6
A great many of the blind are poor, and what is done for them must be done from a missionary stand-point. There are very many who can not pay $1.50 for the paper. We are therefore in need of a fund that will enable us to supply all such persons as far as possible. Quite a goodly number of persons have subscribed for the paper, and have had it sent to some blind individual. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.7
The question of how we can help the blind is an important one. They must be treated as a part of the great work that God has upon the earth. Every man has his proper gift, one after this order and another after that. These gifts come from God. The fact is that we have blind people among us. Some were born blind, some have lost their eyesight one way or another; but notwithstanding all this, each one has a place, and a work to do. It is the aim of the Christian Record to educate, and to suggest lines of work that may supply many blind people with an independent livelihood. Any assistance any one can render along this line will be greatly appreciated. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.8
Sometimes blind persons are turned out of house and home because they observe the Sabbath, and unless they have a means of support, they become public charities. They are then led to query, Where is the God of the Sabbath? Why does he let me drift? This is a serious question, and should receive more than a passing notice. Charity by way of a gift is a good thing sometimes, but charity in its broad sense is better. Real charity is assistance, and enables the helpless to help themselves. In this the relationship of brotherhood is felt. It is that Christianity which throws its strong bands around us, and we feel one in Him. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.9
On the cover of the magazine are ink-print advertisements of such articles as are convenient for blind people to sell or use, such as pocket vaporizers, carpet looms, etc. Aside from these things, our publishing houses carry trade books and Bibles, which our blind people can handle to good advantage. In fact we have in mind a blind person who is one of the best canvassers in one of our conferences. In writing about any of these things, please address or mention the Christian Record, as arrangements have been made that will help on the work the Record is endeavoring to carry forward. GCB January 1, 1900, page 114.10
The Christian Record should be in every blind institution in the land. No doubt many who read this brief article will esteem it a privilege to contribute to this fund. All money can be sent in drafts, postal money-orders, express orders, or stamps. Address the Christian Record, 271 West Main Street, Battle Creek, Mich. GCB January 1, 1900, page 115.1
We wish to state further that there are tracts published in the point-print, as follows:— GCB January 1, 1900, page 115.2
| cents. | |
| A Wonderful Dream, and Your Life-work | 10 |
| What Must I Do to Be Saved | 10 |
| Religious Liberty | 5 |
| The Law of Liberty | 6 |
| True Temperance | 5 |
| Christ Our Life | 5 |
| The Christian’s Privilege | 15 |
| The Sabbath in the New Testament | 15 |
| Bible Authority for Sunday Observance | 10 |
In ordering, state whether New York Point or Improved Braille is desired. These may be obtained by addressing the Christian Record. GCB January 1, 1900, page 115.3