British Union by W. H. Wakeham

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 13, 1910

British Union

By W. H. Wakeham

At the recent general meeting at Watford [England] the following resolution was presented for the consideration of the conference:—

“Whereas, Experience has demonstrated that the organization of our young people into local societies under the general supervision of the church has been a blessing both to the church and to the young people; therefore,—

“Resolved, That we approve of the work that has been done, and that we urge our local conference officers to encourage such an organization wherever there is a sufficient number to warrant it.”

It was believed that the most effective method of discussing such a resolution was to let the leaders of the young people’s societies speak for themselves. So by prearrangement, a large part of the time of the meeting was spent in listening to the reports of the work and methods of our young people’s organizations. Twelve societies were represented, and furnished verbal or written reports of the work done during the past year. Some of these reports showed that our young people had been doing careful planning and earnest work, and with very gratifying results. Various were the means invented to raise money for foreign missions; and home missionary work had not been overlooked. One society reported conversions to the message as the direct result of young people’s efforts; another, a goodly sum raised for the Scottish mission field. One society had made a special study of our denominational history, and had received a rich blessing therefrom. Others had done considerable in the matter of circulating our literature. One society had done something in the way of getting signers to the temperance pledge. All reported blessings accruing to themselves and to others as a result of the organized work done. I think there was no question in the minds of those present at this meeting that the Missionary Volunteer societies have fully justified their existence; and the resolution was unanimously adopted.

However, but a beginning has been made. Much more must be done in the future than has yet been accomplished. One or two societies that were some time ago doing good work have, for various reasons, been abandoned. Some others are scarcely alive. These dead societies must again live; the disheartened must be encouraged. A responsibility rests upon conference workers and the local church officers. Great possibilities are bound up in our young people. The Lord needs their service. Let them be helped in every way possible to develop their latent powers for service.

W. H. WAKEHAM.