A Rally in Behalf of the Young
By G. B. Thompson
NOVEMBER 4 has been set apart by the officers of the Central Union Conference as “Young People’s day” in all the churches in the Union. Judging from the program just received from Professor Kern, secretary of the Young People’s work in that territory, it will be a most interesting and exceedingly profitable day, not only for the youth, but for the churches as well. Professor Kern contributes an interesting paper entitled, “The Message of Elijah;” Sister L. Flora Plummer one on “Our Young People’s Call to Service.” These readings, together with extracts from the “Testimonies,” will be published in a special number of the Educational Messenger of Oct. 15, 1905. Other helpful articles, hints, etc., will appear in the REVIEW and the Instructor. It is encouraging to see these earnest efforts put forth for the youth in this union conference. If each church will do what it can, it will be a success. As an elder, leader, or Sabbath-school superintendent, have you not longed for some one to help you in your labors in behalf of the young people in your church? Here is help within your reach, and this is a splendid opportunity to co-operate with those who are struggling to place this important work where it should be. Why should not other union and local conferences take some similar steps in behalf of the young within their borders? It needs no argument to emphasize the need. We are losing more young Sabbath-keepers from our ranks in many conferences than will equal the number brought into the truth by the workers. Are these young people not worth saving? Why not put forth as earnest efforts in their behalf as for those who know nothing of this message? When we do this, we shall see large numbers of them turning unto the Lord. The spirit of prophecy has said, “Let the6overseers of the church devise plans whereby young men and women may be trained to put to use their entrusted talents. . . . Let the ministers put to use all their ingenuity in devising plans whereby the younger members of the church may be led to co-operate with them in missionary work.” A great work is to be done both for and with our young people. If all will heed the instruction already quoted from the spirit of prophecy, much will be accomplished in this direction. “Young People’s day” in the Central Union is a step toward this, and we earnestly pray that it may be specially blessed of the Lord. G. B. THOMPSON.
Chairman S. S. Dept.