District of Columbia Midsummer Convention
By K. C. RUSSELL
According to appointment the District of Columbia gospel workers held their first convention the first and second days of August. The first day it was held in the Memorial church, at M and Twelfth Streets, N. W., and the second day in the People's church, at Tenth and V Streets, N. W. The reason for this convention will appear clearly to all when it is understood that our evangelistic work here in the District is not under the direction of any local conference. We therefore do not have the benefit of camp-meeting and conference sessions where methods of work can be discussed, and thus obtain the benefit of an exchange of experience with other workers. The attendance, both of our workers and of our brethren and sisters in general, was excellent at every session of the convention. Such topics were chosen as it was thought would produce the greatest practical and immediate benefit to both laborers and church-members. The first subject was introduced in an enthusiastic address by Elder Lewis C. Sheafe, entitled, “How to Keep Our Churches Alive in the District.” The speaker showed that first of all the members should be connected with Christ, the great source of life, and that all should be given something to do. Many other valuable suggestions were made. This address was followed by a lively discussion bringing out many practical points. “How to Increase Our Tithes and Offerings” was the subject of a well-written paper presented by Elder I. H. Evans. As an evidence of the value placed upon this paper by the convention, it is sufficient to say that there was a unanimous vote to have the paper published in the REVIEW. Among those who discussed this paper was Elder W. S. Hyatt, of South Africa, who happened to be in the city as he was returning to his far-away field of labor. The afternoon session opened with a paper by D. W. Reavis, entitled, “How to Use Our Literature Effectively in Connection with Tent and Hall Meetings.” This paper was filled with much valuable instruction concerning the influence of our literature, and the importance of making use of it in our public efforts. Many excellent points were made by those who discussed it. We also consider this paper of sufficient importance to be passed on to other workers through the columns of the REVIEW. “How to Create and Hold an Interest in Our Public Meetings,” was the title of a paper which was presented by Elder J. S. Washburn. We wish that time and space might permit of a detailed account of the practical things which were presented. One point which was given with great emphasis was that we should present the message in its native purity and power if we would create and hold the interest of the people. This, too, was enlarged upon by those who discussed it. Brother G. A. Stevens gave a valuable paper at the beginning of the second day's session on the theme, “How to Connect Our Bible Work with Public Efforts.” This was spoken to by several experienced workers, among whom was Elder W. J. Tanner, recently from Jamaica. “How to Bind off a Public Effort and Establish the Believers in the Faith,” was discussed by Elder L. C. Sheafe. “Care of Our Tents,” was presented by Elder W. A. Colcord. It was voted that he should prepare this matter in leaflet form for permanent use. “How to Combine Our Medical and Evangelistic Work in Our Tent and Hall Meetings,” was the subject upon which G. A. Hare, M. D., wrote. It was a most enthusiastic meeting from the very beginning to its close, and we believe that a new life and inspiration was awakened in the hearts of all who were in attendance. K. C. RUSSELL,
*Chairman of the District of Columbia
Evangelical Committee.*