Church Officers’ Convention in New Jersey by G. B. Thompson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 9, 1908

Church Officers’ Convention in New Jersey

By G. B. Thompson

MARCH 26-29 a church officers’ convention was held at Bridgeton, N. J. The attendance was quite good, church officers and others being present from most of the churches in the southern part of the conference. There were also present the president of the conference, Elder B. F. Kneeland, Elder Geo. W. Spies, and the writer.

The meeting was a most excellent one. The special blessing of the Lord was manifest, and as the practical duties of Christian living were considered, many were led to renewed consecration to the Lord. The Lord came especially near to us on the Sabbath.

The different branches of the work were considered, and instruction was given concerning the responsibility of each church in carrying forward aggressive missionary work for those within its reach. Considerable time was given to a study of the duties of church officers and the responsibility which rests upon them. The elder is to “feed the flock of God.” This means much. Officers in our churches should be leaders. They should take the burden in the local church to carry forward the plans laid for the advancement of the work, just as the conference officers assume the responsibility in the conference. The burden of increasing the tithe and the offerings to missions, carrying forward aggressive missionary work, and maintaining the weekly prayer-meeting, looking after the discouraged and backslidden, are among the duties which rest upon those chosen to lead in the work in the local churches.

I was glad to meet with the Sabbath-keepers in this part of the New Jersey Conference, and the spirit of unity and brotherly love which prevails is especially encouraging. All departments of conference work are being revived and built up. The Lord is blessing the labors of Elder Kneeland and those associated with him in the work to strengthen

and extend the message in the conference. A number of canvassers will soon enter the field. Several tent companies will do pioneer work in new fields the coming summer. A camp-meeting is to be held later in the season.

Let all pray that the message in this conference may be greatly blessed of the Lord, and that as the faithful laborers go forth, they may have an abundant harvest of souls. G. B. THOMPSON.