Earlier text: THE WORKTHIRTY-SEVENTH SESSION, MAY 13 TO JUNE 6 Medical Missionary Department
Wednesday, May 26, 5 P. M. Dr. W. A. George presented a paper entitled “What Constitutes True Medical Missionary Work?” making numerous quotations from “Testimonies for the Church,” Vols. VI, VII, VIII. Among the important points brought out were: “This is a great and important branch of our denominational work.” “When all our medical missionaries live the new life in Christ, . . . they will have a much clearer understanding of what constitutes medical missionary work.” In our missionary work it is not always necessary to urge peculiar views. In fact, it is often better to let our lives preach silent sermons. Ministers and physicians should work in unity for the one purpose, and physicians should be in attendance at our camp-meetings. They should also give health lectures by means of which they might often reach the higher classes. Every member of a church should take hold of the medical missionary work, and to this end physicians and nurses should carry on an educational campaign in our churches. Another important branch of the medical missionary work is the circulation of literature on health and temperance. It is important that we take a stronger stand on true temperance reform, presenting the total abstinence pledge and securing signers for the same. We should also teach temperance in eating. Cooking schools, hygienic restaurants, and the like should be established in many places as educational centers. Dr. A. B. Olsen mentioned the parable of the good Samaritan as being the best example of true medical missionary work, emphasizing that such work includes the tender, gentle spirit of compassion for our fellow men. J. A. Burden quoted a number of statements from the Testimonies: That “medical missionary work is yet in its infancy;” that “genuine medical missionary work is understood by but few;” that “the time has come when every member of this church should take part in this work;” and that there should be a large army of nurses and teachers trained to go from city to city and village to village presenting true medical missionary principles. D. E. Blake told of the health and temperance work being done by the workers in the Nashville Sanitarium for colored people among various churches in that city and in one of its large colleges for the negro race. He said, “We need the help and co-operation of our people to carry this work forward.” Dr. D. H. Kress mentioned that in the parable of the good Samaritan, the priest and Levite had opportunity of doing a greater work than the Samaritan, by helping the sufferer in a spiritual way as well as the physical. Dr. J. R. Leadsworth gave instances showing the natural tendency of nurses and physicians engaged in medical missionary work to lose sight of the spiritual help they may give, and make their work largely professional. This may be remedied by a sufficient mingling of the missionary and the medical work during training. Dr. Lauretta Kress related experiences in doing medical missionary work while taking the medical course; and Dr. R. H. Habenicht told of his connection with a tent effort, and of other Bible work resulting in bringing fifteen people into the truth during the time of his medical studies. In closing the discussion, Dr. George emphasized that medical missionary work is not to be confined simply to our sanitariums, but that it is to be done everywhere, also that the work of our physicians is to get every one interested in this work. Concerning temperance it was said that if any people in all the world should be interested in temperance work, it should be Seventh-day Adventists. Miss Bilz was given time to close the discussion of her talk of the previous morning, and stated that the organized W. C. T. U. are now going further in this line of work than any other people, and that we should uphold them in every possible way in advancing this work. Fourteenth Meeting, May 28, 8 A. M.
Dr. D. C. Ross was asked to read the paper prepared by Dr. Lillis Wood-Starr entitled “Schools of Health.” Dr. Starr gave experiences illustrating the fact that by means of schools of health, hearts may be reached promptly and efficiently. Her medical missionary experiences began with single individuals and families; but it was not long before she was conducting schools, and this was followed by openings for nurses to enter families, and teach mothers the principles of cooking and healthful living. The doctor, as a result of her small beginning, has had the opportunity of lecturing to forty thousand school-children on alcohol and tobacco. Elder R. S. Owen spoke with regret of the fact that he had been so many years in evangelical work without being directly connected with the medical work. He believed it was a mistake to attempt to separate these two branches of work. The Spirit of God is urging us to unite the evangelical and the medical. Dr. Paulson gave suggestions from personal experience as to openings for lectures and health schools, stating that many times we miss opportunities for doing a great work through a neglect to meet some seemingly unimportant call. L. A. Hansen said, “The word of the spirit of prophecy is, Educate! educate! educate!” I believe the sustenance of our medical work is dependent upon this. Our work in Nashville was opened up He related their experience there in demonstrating the wisdom of teaching the proper preparation of commonly used foods, rather than encouraging the use of the manufactured health foods. J. A. Burden quoted from the Testimonies that “we are not called to feed the world, but we are called to educate them.” He related far-reaching results of health talks given in the first vegetarian restaurant in Australia. Dr. A. B. Olsen stated that in England they conducted schools of health in which they furnished printed programs, giving the details of what would be taken up at the various sessions. Ordinarily a course consisted of four days’ work with afternoon and evening sessions. A hall was secured, and a gas range provided. Sometimes admission was by ticket, and at other times a collection was taken up. The Leicester Sanitarium was the fruit of one of these schools of health. The program was somewhat as follows:—
First Evening.—True Temperance; What It Means.
Second Evening.—Household Hygiene.
Third Evening.—Common Errors of Diet.
Fourth Evening.—Simple Remedies. As part of this evening’s program, some attention was given to the evils of drug medication.
First Afternoon.—Breakfast Dishes.
Second Afternoon.—Substitutes for Flesh (not imitations).
Third Afternoon.—Fruit Drinks, or else Hygienic Cakes, according to circumstances.
Fourth Afternoon.—Invalid Diet. Miss Margaret Bilz: I have often carried on health schools, considering the topics, Diet, Dress, and Drugs, and I have found a good interest as a result. Fifteenth Meeting, May 30, 8 A. M.
Dr. J. D. Shively read a paper entitled, “To What Extent Are Drugs Necessary?” Only recently has drug medication been studied from a scientific standpoint, and the result of this study has been a tendency toward simplicity and preventive and conservative medicine. As an example of this conservatism, may be mentioned the fact that at the recent tuberculosis congress it was asserted authoritatively that there is no known drug for the cure of tuberculosis, and that sunshine, diet, air, and rest are our main dependence. This same conservatism is invading the domain of other diseases with even more successful results. It is probable that drugs will never be entirely discarded. There are a few whose loss, as we now view it, would be a real world calamity. However, the use of drugs is largely empirical, and satisfactory results do not always follow the use of the best-established drugs. The question may be asked, To what extent are drugs necessary? The answer is, just to that extent that we have no remedy more effective. Here our sanitariums come in, and offer remedies for many conditions where formerly drugs were supposed to be necessary. In fact, many forms of physiological action can be secured much more effectually by means of sanitarium methods than by the use of drugs. (1) In some cases it seems necessary, even in our sanitariums, to give medicine in order to relieve the mind of a patient6 who feels that nothing is being done for him unless he has something out of a bottle. In such cases it is sometimes an advantage to give medicine, if only a placebo. (2) There are certain acute specific diseases where we know nothing to give that will act so well as certain drugs, and then again, we find it necessary to use disinfectants and anesthetics in surgery. It may be said, in a general way, that the trend of modern medicine is toward simplicity,—fewer drug remedies, and the use of physiologic remedies. Dr. H. M. Jump brought out that the general use of drugs in our institutions would be a denial of one of the reasons for the existence of such institutions. The doctor read a number of pointed statements from “Spiritual Gifts,” Vol. V, regarding some of the evil effects of drugs. Dr. W. A. George warned against taking an extreme position against the use of all drug preparations, mentioning disinfectants, anesthetics, and other preparations. He quoted from the Testimonies that we should educate away from drugs; and that, if we would study, in many cases we would find some method of treatment which would take the place of drugs, he said, “Some of us who have tried have found that it is very rarely necessary to give drugs.” Dr. D. H. Kress: “It is a fact that the best recognized men in the medical profession have very little confidence in drugs. The reason is that they have seen not only their immediate effect, but their after-effect.” Concerning the light our physicians have in regard to the use of drugs, he said, “There are some things we have to take by faith,” mentioning that while many of the commonly used drugs do have an immediate effect in relieving diseased conditions of the body, they have an after-effect of causing diseases of the bone and other permanently injurious effects. Sixteenth Meeting, May 31, 8 A. M.
In accordance with the motion of yesterday morning, the discussion was continued on the topic of “Drug Medication.” Dr. G. H. Heald called attention to an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, May 15, entitled “Pharmacologic Fetishisms,” which was written by a professor of pharmacology in one of the Washington medical colleges. This paper goes on to show that many of the drugs relied upon by a large proportion of the medical profession are worse than useless in the treatment of the diseases for which they are used. Dr. H. F. Rand gave instances showing how hydrotherapy is successful in the treatment of malaria, even in cases where quinin has been unsuccessful. Dr. Lauretta Kress had been tempted only once to give a sedative in sleeplessness, but she resisted the temptation, and as a result of personal effort and prayer, the patient obtained six hours’ sleep. It afterward occurred that the patient at the time was under conviction, and during the prayer yielded her heart to God. Dr. D. H. Kress: Drugs often give the appearance of immediate relief which is only deceptive. Older and more experienced physicians see the after-effect, and become very skeptical about the use of drugs. Dr. H. F. Rand, being requested to outline briefly his treatment for malaria, said: (1) Clean out the alimentary tract; (2) by means of cool treatments, stimulate the white blood-cells to destroy the plasmodium. I begin about sixteen hours ahead of the expected chill, giving treatments every hour until the time of the chill. The treatments should be adjusted to the reactionary power of the patient. If there is a chill at all, it will be very slight. Rarely if ever is there a second chill. Dr. V. L. Fisher: Though there is more difficulty in using hydrotherapy outside of the sanitarium, if a physician will first educate himself in these lines and carefully educate his patients, he can accomplish a great deal. The greatest difficulty is in the treatment of patients who have been under a physician giving large doses of powerful drugs. Dr. Butterbaugh: In outside practise one has very much more difficulty in using hydrotherapy; for instance, if one has a number of patients several miles apart, he can not be there to personally supervise the hydrotherapy; and to trust it to the family would often be worse than useless. Dr. Olive Ingersoll mentioned cases of malaria in which the patient was not strong nor able to take vigorous treatment, stating that in her experience, such cases had responded more successfully to a combined hot water and dietetic treatment than to cold-water treatment. Dr. David Paulson: “The way we relate ourselves to drugs is what distinguishes us from other physicians.” He related an experience in a hospital where half of the malarial fever cases were treated by himself and Dr. D. H. Kress with water treatments, and the other half with the usual methods, employing quinin. Not only did their cases respond better than the others, but certain advanced cases turned over to them by the other physicians as undesirable, were successfully treated by means of hydrotherapy. Others spoke of the need of educating away from the use of drugs, and of the great need of a medical school of our own, in which young students can learn at the beginning to use rational methods instead of depending on the use of drugs. Seventeenth Meeting, June 1, 8 A. M.
E. G. Fulton, being asked to occupy ten minutes describing the work of the vegetarian restaurants, cafés, and cafeterias, stated that vegetarian work is real missionary work, and constitutes an opening wedge for the entrance of the message. Many who inquire about food, by so doing have their interest aroused in regard to spiritual matters. We always have reading matter. The Testimonies say that vegetarian restaurants should be established in all large cities. Twice the number of employees necessary to conduct restaurant work may be employed, and let them alternate between restaurant work and various lines of city mission work. It is impossible to make a successful cook in two or three years. More interest should be taken in the education of cooks who can prepare food that is hygienic, and at the same time acceptable to those whom we want to reach through the restaurant work. We are attempting to get away from all “mock” dishes. We have been compelled to use these names more or less, otherwise our patrons would not partake of the dishes; but as fast as we can educate them, we are using names more in harmony with our principles. Restaurants should be closed on the Sabbath. We have had definite instruction on that point, and have been blessed in following out the instruction. Some, it is true, will accuse us of being narrow, of attempting to starve them or forcing them to eat meat; but as a rule, when we have talked with them, they come to admire our principles. On Friday afternoon we have a number of the girls put up lunches for our patrons and our helpers. These they take for luncheon on the Sabbath. Elder Starr: We have found in Australia that these lunches are a means of introducing our health foods in the homes. E. G. Fulton: And I will say also that the restaurants are a great help to the sanitariums. Moreover, properly conducted restaurants pay well; but in order to do this, they must have good cooks and good service. It is my conviction that not one girl in forty knows how to set a table. Our work should be educational. We should have the very best service in America. Dr. W. A. Ruble: I am very anxious to have this restaurant work started here in Washington and in other Eastern cities. We are behind the times in this matter. Dr. W. A. George: We have had definite instruction that there should be restaurants started in all the large cities of the South. Dr. D. H. Kress: It is difficult to teach health principles when we have no place to direct people to get proper food. A restaurant could be made a great blessing in Washington. Dr. A. B. Olsen: A properly conducted restaurant is genuine missionary work. I wish we could get more of them in this country and also in Europe. A paper by Dr. F. E. Braucht, entitled, “Relation between Medical and Business Departments of Sanitariums,” was read by Dr. Leadsworth. In part, he said: “I think we are all aware that the relation is a very close one, and one in which the duties are very often likely to overlap; but I am of the opinion that in most cases no serious misunderstanding need arise, provided the medical and business heads consult much, and see to it that each knows exactly what the other is doing and planning.
“All money for the institution should be received and paid out through the treasury department; but no bills should be paid without the ‘O. K.’ of the head of the department for which the articles were purchased. It is a fact that the superintendent must be responsible for all medical and surgical work done in the institution, as the laws, as well as the patients, have made this so.” In discussing this paper, L. M. Bowen, business manager of the St. Helena (Cal.) Sanitarium, said: “In considering the underlying principles of business management, I believe we should start with the board of trustees. I believe the board should be made up of men who understand sanitarium work, and should have a policy outlining the work of the different departments. We should have men to fill positions who are consecrated men, and who can work together. All should understand what their duties are, and should counsel together regarding7 the work of the institution, even in small details. Under the board, I believe the business and medical departments can be so organized that they will not conflict.” Concerning a question in regard to advertising, he thought the board should settle such questions by fixing a policy for the institution to follow. In closing, he said, “I believe when it comes to a matter of precedence, we should favor the medical department of the institution.” L. A. Hansen stated it to be his opinion that the board should be the court of appeal in matters causing a difference of opinion. Dr. W. B. Holden related instances showing that by closely urging the settlement of small items, the business manager can harm an institution to the extent of thousands of dollars, also that a superintendent should not make special rates with patients independently of the business office. Dr. Ruble spoke of the need of the board’s taking a sufficient interest in an institution as an essential toward success; and Dr. Henry Harrower emphasized the importance of good letter-writing and a knowledge of business methods as a factor in success in institutional work. Missionary Volunteer Department
Sixth and Seventh Meetings, May 25 and 27
The extra meeting, May 25, was devoted to the discussion of organization. Elder A. T. Robinson said, “I feel the most heartfelt sympathy with the paper presented by Elder F. M. Wilcox this morning. I hailed the organization of the Missionary Volunteer Department with delight, and have endeavored to co-operate with it. In our conference we have worked out some of the details in a little different way from the recommended plans. I favor a plan of organization that will leave latitude enough so that while we are united on the principles of organization, there shall be freedom to carry out those plans that will meet the needs of the field where they are applied. If our brethren in Australia choose to adapt that plan in a little different way from what we do in this country, they ought to be counted as in harmony with the general plans. If any conference, to meet its peculiar circumstances, sees fit to apply the details of the plan in a little different way, I think it ought to be free to do so. What we are all aiming at is to have a plan that will enlist the sympathies and the co-operation of those who really love the Lord Jesus, and then apply those principles in such a way that the truth itself shall appeal to those who are outside of that circle and draw them. I can only hope and pray that the very best plan shall be devised to accomplish such results. My heart is in this work of seeing our young people brought in to make a tremendous factor in the finishing of this work.” Several others took part in a free discussion of the plan of organization. Prof. C. W. Irwin probably expressed the sentiments of all in the following: “We ought to have strong missionary work going forward in our churches, and the young people's society, Christian help band, publishing work, or anything else should be simply factors of this work under the control of the church.” The question of the co-operation of old and young was discussed, and the thought presented that the young people should always respect and advise with the church officers, even though they may feel that they have not much sympathy with the work. The attitude of the older brethren should always be one of sympathy and helpfulness. The meeting Thursday morning was devoted to the discussion of resolutions which had been presented on the educational features of the Missionary Volunteer work. The question of a series of lessons to be published on Bible doctrines received careful attention. The heartiest approval of the plan of such a series was expressed, that our youth may be thoroughly grounded in the Scriptures. The question of whether these lessons should be published in the Instructor or in pamphlet form was discussed at some length, and referred back to the committee. Religious Liberty Department
Twelfth Meeting, May 27, 8 A. M.
On account of the rain, and the departmental tent not being floored, the meeting was held in the Conference pavilion. There was a large attendance, the tent being nearly full. Unusual interest was manifested in the subject considered at this meeting, which, as announced, was, “When Arrested for Sunday Labor, How Should We Plead; Guilty or Not Guilty?” Elder W. M. Healey led out in the discussion, reading a very well-written and carefully prepared paper on the subject, the gist of which was that we should plead, “Not guilty.” To plead guilty would be wrong, because no actual guilt exists, as no real crime has been committed, and would at once end the trial, and cut off all further pleading, or presentation of the truth or the principles involved, and simply leave the judge to pronounce sentence. The law itself is wrong. Those making and enforcing it, therefore, and not the one on trial, are the real guilty parties. The cases of Nebuchadnezzar and the three Hebrews, and Ahab persecuting the prophets and people of God, were cited in proof of this. Following Elder Healey’s paper, a paper written by Judge C. C. Holbrook, of Colorado, sent on by him to the department, was read by the chairman. This likewise was a very able, logical, and well-written presentation of the subject, and was much appreciated by all present. The position taken by the judge agreed with that taken by Elder Healey, that we should plead, “Not guilty,” a number of well-defined reasons being given in support of the correctness of it. Before pleading, however, the judge stated that it would be proper and well to make a motion that the case be quashed, on the ground that no real crime had been committed, and that the law itself, under which the case was brought, was unconstitutional, both as regards the State constitution, and the Constitution of the United States. Elder R. W. Parmele cited the case of Brother Lowry, of Tennessee, who, when brought before the court, and asked how he plead, did not plead at all, but simply remained silent. The secretary, W. A. Colcord, stated that when a man was brought before court, and asked how he pleaded, it was not necessary for him to plead at all, in which case it was the duty of the judge to enter a plea of “not guilty” for him, upon the general principle laid down in all jurisprudence, that “a man is supposed to be innocent until he is proved guilty.” The question whether a man could appear for himself, and plead his own case in court, was talked to by Elder Healey, Prof. J. G. Lamson, and S. B. Horton. The general opinion seemed to be that it was every man’s right and privilege to plead his own case, if he so desired, but that he might employ counsel, if he preferred to do so. In some cases, Elder Healey thought it would be wise to engage counsel, cases in which an attorney understood and would plead the principles of religious liberty. The cause of truth in such a case might be further advanced by this means. This would not prevent the individual indicted making a statement himself. Thirteenth Meeting, May 28, 8 A. M.
The subject considered was, “What Should Be Our Attitude Toward Exemption Clauses?” The question was quite thoroughly discussed in an extended paper prepared and read by Elder C. S. Longacre. For us to ask exemption from Sunday laws, he held, would be unwise and contrary to sound principles. In the end it would shut off from opposing the laws themselves. The course pursued by the Seventh-day Baptists in this respect was cited in proof. They had asked for exemption, and had almost entirely ceased their opposition to Sunday legislation. Exemption from the requirements of a religious law is of the nature of toleration; and toleration is not true liberty, but implies the right to be intolerant. While it might not be wise or expedient to oppose exemptions where granted, and while we might even express appreciation of the good intentions of legislators in granting them, still the law is wrong that requires an exemption to prevent its coming in conflict with conscience and inalienable rights. Elder J. S. Washburn followed Elder Longacre, stating that he concurred in the position that it is quite proper for us not to ask for an exemption to Sunday laws; at the same time he thought it would be unwise for us to oppose such exemptions; for in reality they virtually nullified the law. Fourteenth Meeting, May 30, 8 A. M.
The special topics were, “How to Work with State Legislators,” and “The Importance of Exercising Caution in Our Reference to the Government and Its Officials.” Prof. J. G. Lamson led out with a paper on the first subject, in which he emphasized the advisability of legislators being interviewed and written to by their constituents, rather than by those who might be considered in the light of professional lobbyists. He spoke of the necessity of exercising tact coupled with affability. Elder Conradi gave some good advice, prefacing his remarks with the scripture, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” He spoke of the difference between the8 freedom enjoyed in America, and the condition in this respect in some of the European countries. In these countries the work had to be started and carried on very carefully and cautiously, as all their movements were watched, and everything was under the surveillance of the police. Unwise statement or unguarded movements would have precipitated a crisis and closed up the work. He spoke of his own imprisonment in Russia some years ago, and how God wrought for his deliverance. He referred to the courage and firmness of some of our young men in military service, who had been brought into strait places. Great care had to be exercised that nothing should be done by our people which might be construed as opposing civil government. The civil authorities had recognized something of the seriousness of the situation, and the difficulty of making satisfactory arrangements. Sabbath-School Department
Seventh Meeting, May 28, 8 A. M.
This was “illustration day” in the Sabbath-school Department meetings. That many were interested in the topics to be presented was evidenced by the very large number attending. The first paper was on “The Value of Stories of Incident or Experience in Illustrating Bible Lessons,” by Mrs. Fannie Dickerson Chase, editor of the Instructor. She said, in part: The reviewer of a certain Sabbath-school division had just related several incidents which aptly illustrated a point in the lesson, when a little fellow on the front seat looked up at her and said: “I like stories.” Every other child who heard the remark showed by the expression on his face that he, too, had the same liking. While the teacher’s main thought is to instruct, to “feed the lambs” of God, and not merely to please the interest, yet if he can accomplish the second end without detracting from the first, his work will be the stronger. The seventh chapter of Matthew, consisting of only twenty-nine verses, contains more than thirty references to natural objects which Christ used to illustrate spiritual truth. A number of interesting stories were given, illustrating very effectively the spiritual teachings of the Bible. Mrs. Maude Wilkinson presented a paper on “The Blackboard in the Sabbath-school.” There are six gates by which we may send religious truth into the soul. One of these—the most important—is through prayer. The others are the five senses. We may go through the ear to the heart by songs and words, and through the eye to the heart by visible illustrations and personal examples. Hearing lacks vividness without sight. The blackboard may be used in many departments of work, aiming always to have more of Christ than of chalk. In teaching young or old the truths of God’s Word, we must be intensely spiritual. The simpler the design made in the presence of the congregation, the more impressive and abiding the lesson taught. The speaker used the blackboard, and her work was an example of the effectiveness of simple outline sketches. “Object Illustrations” was presented by Mrs. A. J. S. Bourdeau: To illustrate is to illumine. An illustration should serve the purpose of a window in a dark room. The things which enter the mind through the “eye-gate” make the most lasting impressions. To the teacher who says, “Object illustrations are too much work for me,” it may be replied that all duty is difficult to an unconsecrated heart. It is said that “melody is difficult in proportion as the instrument is out of tune, and duty is difficult in proportion as the heart is out of tune.” “In every lesson there is the outer husk of the literal; there is also the inner food for the nourishment of the soul. Breaking the husk comes first in the order of teaching; but the teacher must not seek to satisfy his class with the husk, and leave the precious food unused.” Eighth Meeting, May 31, 8 A. M.
A call was made for a report of the committee on Sabbath-school finances, and a resolution introduced recommending that our Sabbath-schools give all their donations to missions. The resolution was discussed by several, and passed without a dissenting vote. The discussion emphasized the fact that it was not designed to oppress small schools or those whose members have but limited means. It was urged that the schools supply themselves with that which is needed to conduct the school in the proper way, but recognition was also given to the fact that there is no virtue in the placing of money for supplies in the Sabbath-school contributions which ought to be set apart for missions. The special topic for the day was “Children’s Meetings at Camp-meeting.” Mrs. Vesta J. Farnsworth gave a most helpful talk on this subject. If there is any work that requires thoughtful, careful, earnest preparation, it is that which should be done for the children at the camp-meetings. The need for a suitable place for such meetings, for pleasant surroundings, for well-prepared plans, for carefully prepared lessons, and for the appointment of suitable helpers, was impressively set forth. The need for heart preparation on the part of the one in charge was also impressed. Those who carry heavy burdens in this line of work must be willing to forego the pleasure of attending meetings which would be of interest to them. The instruction given in such meetings should be that which will lead the children to God. They should not only be entertained, but they should be led to recognize their duty to the Lord, and urged to give their hearts to him. The children’s tent is not a proper playground for the children between meetings. They should be taught reverence. Sister Ella Merickel led the discussion, and in addition to emphasizing the need for preparation on the part of those who take such responsibility, she spoke of her plan of furnishing lessons to those who were chosen as helpers. She also presented several devices for interesting the children in memory verses. The first paper of the council was read by Prof. C. C. Lewis, entitled “The Development of Our School System.” The paper described the first church-school in Battle Creek, Mich.,—the school of Prof. G. H. Bell,—the founding of Battle Creek College, and the growth of our school work from that time to the present. It also pointed out the following principles, which distinguish our schools from others, and justify our school system:— 1. The Word of God is made the basis of all instruction. 2. Students receive instruction and practise in different kinds of useful labor. 3. The schools are missionary training-schools for the preparation of laborers in the closing gospel message. Then, from the experience of the past, the paper drew the following lessons for the work of the future:— 1. We do not half appreciate the principles of education which the Lord has scattered all along our way, and which have finally been gathered in the book “Education” into a garland of surpassing beauty and loveliness. 2. Although light was given to this denomination in regard to manual training six years before the first efforts of secular educators in this direction in the United States, yet the world has beaten us in the race after our own ideals. We should not rest until Christian industrial training is extended to the work of every grade, from the church-schools to the training-school. 3. Some of the hindrances of this heaven-born reform are: (a) long accustomed running in the groove of popular methods; (b) unmerciful criticism of mistakes in efforts to reform; (c) indifference of parents; and (d) ignorance of teachers with regard to industrial instruction. 4. Although in some respects our institutions of learning have swung into worldly conformity, yet they are “prisoners of hope;” and victory will be ours if we do not lose heart, and will press the battle a little longer. Fourteenth Meeting, May 30, 1909
Prof. B. G. Wilkinson read an intensely interesting and highly instructive paper on “How to Improve Our Bible Teaching.” He said, in part, that in its struggle against paganism, Christianity had to9 create a system of its own. The more advanced we are in the study of the Bible, the more advanced we are in Christian education. It is just as important to have the best methods in Bible teaching as it is to have the best methods in teaching other subjects. The Bible teacher should not be overworked, but should be given an opportunity to reach a high standard. There is a dearth of successful Bible teachers in our ranks. There is a great difference between teaching and preaching. It will never do to use the Bible in the schoolroom as a text-book for preaching. The teacher should be able to develop in the student the ability to bring forth truth from the Scriptures. There are several chief methods of teaching the Bible. The first is the topical method, which seems to be the natural way the Holy Spirit takes to lead men into a knowledge of the truth. But this is not the best method for youthful minds. Chapter-by-chapter study is the best method for those who want to learn how to study the Bible. It is most valuable to learn how to outline the chapters. Outlining gives a better grasp of the subject-matter, and compels the memory to do its duty. Teaching by books of the Bible is a valuable method. It helps us to see things in systems. It cultivates the higher faculties, and makes clear the relation of parts to the whole. The strength or weakness of the Bible teaching in a college measures the strength or weakness of the entire work of the college. Prof. H. C. Lacey led in the discussion of the paper. He emphasized the importance of improving the Bible teaching. The Bible teacher should be the best man on the faculty. He should be spiritually minded, intellectual, well educated, and not a fanatic. It would be well if he possessed a knowledge of the original languages, and he ought to have the gift of teaching. He should make definite assignments, requiring constructive efforts on the part of the pupil. The study of the life of Christ should result in a general view of the events in their sequence. He ought to teach the main points in Bible doctrines, not harping upon his own special views. He should seek for symmetry of presentation, since the mind more readily grasps such an outline. There should be definite assignments—texts to memorize, propositions to arrange, outlines to construct, and charts and diagrams to make. Bible study, properly pursued, will give intellectual training, as well as spiritual understanding. There should be telescopic study first and microscopic study afterward. The subject should first be grasped as a whole, and then the details should be filled in. The differences and likenesses in related books should be carefully noted. Elder R. S. Owen emphasized the importance of requiring texts to be committed to memory, leaving the results to the Holy Spirit. THE discussions in the departmental meetings do much toward shaping and preparing plans and resolutions to be presented to the delegates. The meetings in all departments have been very generously attended, the several places of gathering being filled to overflowing nearly every morning. North American Foreign Department
Seventh Meeting, Friday, May 28
ELDER L. H. CHRISTIAN thought that two union conference presidents in whose territory are found the bulk of foreign peoples ought to be added to the North American Foreign Department. Elder G. F. Haffner expressed himself in favor of some kind of fund provided from the West, whereby laborers coming to the East might be supported. Heretofore the laborers sent to the East have been supported by appropriations handed out year by year, but such a method is too uncertain. When the end of the year comes, the laborer does not know whether the appropriation will be continued or not. What was needed, he thought, was a stable, definite fund, not running out year by year. Elder Mortensen said that the support of the Swedish laborers in the East is one of the hardest problems he has had to meet. He thought that what is needed to meet this difficulty is a system of regular gifts, and then at times there ought also to be special collections necessary to meet special demands.