Missionary Volunteer Convention in Western Washington by S. Lea Hoover

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 18, 1909

Missionary Volunteer Convention in Western Washington

By S. Lea Hoover

According to appointment made by Prof. M. E. Kern, our Missionary Volunteer convention was held in the North Seattle church, February 12-15. Delegates and visitors from different parts of the conference assembled on the opening day until our committee on entertainment was taxed to the limit. Out of our eighteen Missionary Volunteer societies, twelve were well represented; and both old and young from many of the churches where societies have not been organized were also present. The meetings were well attended throughout the convention. All the conference laborers except two were present, and most of them came prepared to take part in the program. As a result of their co-operation and the excellent instruction given by Elders M. E. Kern and O. K. Butler, the truth was exalted, and all present were greatly blessed.

On Sabbath, Elder Kern spoke of the sacredness of home ties, and of the golden opportunity of parents to win the love and confidence of their children during the early days of childhood. During the morning and afternoon sessions of the convention, the different lines of Missionary Volunteer work were taken up. Papers that had been carefully prepared were read, and the subjects discussed.

Much emphasis was given to the importance of all our young people forming the habit of reading good books. The evenings were given to consecration and revival services, and we greatly rejoiced to see a number of the young people take their stand with the people of God, and others renew their consecration. About twenty took a definite stand for the truth, and many others who had been following their Lord afar off caught a glimpse of the glorious privileges and possibilities of the Missionary Volunteer who has decided to “wholly follow the Lord.”

At the close of the convention, Elder S. W. Nellis conducted a praise service, affording all opportunity to speak. Praise and gratitude were offered to God for the blessings received at the convention. The conference committee decided that the conference Missionary Volunteer secretary should be released from conference office work, that more time might be given to the Sabbath-school and young people's work in the field.

We feel to praise God for his blessings bestowed on this first convention of Missionary Volunteers in the Western Washington Conference, and we are confident of ultimate victory in this warfare; for we know whom we have believed.

S. Lea Hoover, Missionary Volunteer Sec.