Shall We Have a Church-School Next Year? by F. G.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 22, 1909

Shall We Have a Church-School Next Year?

By F. G.

This is a question being asked by hundreds of parents. There can be only one answer in case it is within the realm of possibilities, and that an affirmative one; but oftentimes our ideas of our possibilities need more faith woven into them. Very plain things are given us through inspiration concerning this important question. The Lord through Moses told the children of Israel that they were to teach his words to their children: “And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children.” “Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in

the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for?”

Then again in the Testimonies it is written: ‘Wherever there are a few Sabbath-keepers, the parents should unite in providing a place for a day-school where their children and youth can be instructed. They should employ a Christian teacher, who, as a consecrated missionary, shall educate the children in such a way as to lead them to become missionaries. Let teachers be employed who will give a thorough education in the common branches, the Bible being made the foundation and the life of all study. Parents should gird on the armor, and by their own example teach their children to be missionaries. They should work while it is day; for “the night cometh, when no man can work.” John 9:4. If they will put forth unselfish efforts, perseveringly teaching their children to bear responsibilities, the Lord will work with them.’

Surely this is good ground upon which to stand in this important work. The salvation of their children is the most important work which God has given to parents, and no self-denial is too great to accomplish this. Now is the time when each church should have its plans well laid for its school this coming year. Every effort should be made to secure the best teachers possible. Each member of the church should feel a sense of responsibility in this matter, whether he has children or not. It is the first duty of the church to care for the lambs of its flock; and this duty does not apply alone to parents, even though their responsibility be greatest. Let good accommodations be provided for the children. The building should be well ventilated and well lighted. There should be plenty of blackboard room, sufficient maps, a globe, and certain charts provided. There should be room for small school gardens, and every effort should be put forth to make the school a decided success. God will abundantly bless whole-hearted undertakings in this direction.

F. G.