Impressions at Knowlton (Quebec) Sanitarium
By C. V. S. Boettger
I HAVE recently become acquainted with the different advantages and disadvantages, opportunities, possibilities, and necessities of this sanitarium. The brethren informed me regarding their arranged improvements. These consist of (1) the wiring of the whole building, thus giving a much-needed and superior facility for lighting, more lights and better ones; (2) the installing of a larger furnace. The present one is inadequate and too expensive in its running. It will be seen at once that both improvements mean safety and saving, although the immediate outlay is nearly one thousand dollars, if I am not mistaken in the amount given me. And as there is no reserve fund from which to draw, great economy, forethought, and judicious management must be exercised. While the foregoing will undoubtedly be of great service and general benefit, it will, after all, affect only the shell of the work, and not the sanitarium and its office specifically. The sanitarium has been established to promote spiritual work through human agencies. A Bible reader without a Bible would work at a disadvantage. A sanitarium without proper equipment or with incomplete facilities could not possibly do efficient work. Our sanitarium has an excellent superintendent, good nurses, and some appliances; but not sufficient equipment. It would take entirely too much space to go into details of the needs, or to point out the advantages of such an equipment; but suffice it to say that some apparatus of this kind is almost indispensable. The appliances are not too expensive or out of reach, but the present financial condition will not warrant the outlay. The absence of these appliances means reduction in income; their presence, proportioned additional income. Now, while there is a constant need, or cry, for aid here and there, can we not put our shoulder to the wheel and give a lift? My suggestion is that the different pieces of apparatus might be obtained from the different churches. In this way we surely could obtain the necessary help. Now let us make an effort to help the sanitarium,—help those in charge as well as those who go there to seek help,—and I am sure the Lord will help us all. Give this matter your careful and prayerful consideration, and if you think of a better plan, let us know it. Any member of the sanitarium Board of Managers will be grateful to hear and note your interest. Further particulars may be learned from Dr. White, Elder Rickard, or Elder Farnsworth. I am sure the Lord wants us to be at our best, to do our best. He will impress you and direct you, and his blessings will continually attend you.—C. V. S. Boettger, in Canadian Union Messenger.