p. 262 | SUPERINTENDENTS by D. A. Robinson

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · April 22, 1880

FromThe Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Vol. 55, No. 17

SUPERINTENDENTS

By D. A. Robinson

BY ELD. D. A. ROBINSON.

The success of a Sabbath-school depends largely on its superintendent. Of course, if the school does not second his efforts, he can do but little, and there are schools that will succeed notwithstanding their superintendent is almost a failure. But generally speaking much depends on him to give character to the school.

A POOR SUPERINTENDENT

Usually comes into school late. His spirits are soured by something that occurred before he came. It is either too hot or too cold; the snow is too deep or the roads are too muddy. He has no disposition to exhibit any cheerfulness, and no time to spend with the little ones. He not unfrequently seats himself with his back to the school in the most awkward position that he can easily take. If any remarks are made by him, it is difficult to tell from whence they come. Review questions are asked in a mechanical kind of a way. The smaller children must not claim any of his time, for he can't bother with them. They are of no consequence, and to spend time with them is to lose it, is his motto. How different is it with a

GOOD SUPERINTENDENT,

who comes into the school with his countenance all aglow, and with words of good cheer for all he meets. At the proper time he arises before the school, and announces something to sing that he has selected beforehand. This causes no delay. He moves about the room in a quiet manner. In his review of the different divisions of the school, he puts an earnestness and vigor into his questions that rivets the attention of all upon what he says. He gives especial attention to the little ones, and plans to have something in the exercises that will be of interest and profit to them. He gives prayerful thought to his work, and puts forth efforts to have it go forward. Every interest of the school has his attention.

All should try to excel in whatsoever position they may be placed. A successful superintendent will reform wrong habits, cultivate good ones, have a special regard for the smaller members of the school; in short, will be determined to make it a perfect success. A most sacred trust is committed to the Sabbath-school workers, and happy will they be who have not proved recreant thereto.