The Washington Training College
By J. W. LAWHEAD
THIS institution opened on Wednesday, September 20, according to appointment, with a fair number of students in attendance. As this school has been established with reference to training young men and women, the constant effort has been to draw an older and more mature class of students, the result being a company of young men and women above the average both in age and in literary training. Some are preparing themselves for the ministry, and others for teaching, others for medical missionary work, and a few are undecided as to just what their life-work may be, but are seeking an education with the thought of preparation for some kind of Christian work. It was very encouraging to the managers to meet so superior a class of young people, and to feel that the purpose in establishing the school was so near its realization in the persons of these young men and women. We were favored with the presence of quite a number of visitors, among whom were Elders Daniells, Spicer, Thompson, and Russell, all of whom spoke very earnestly, offering words of counsel and wisdom which were appreciated by all who were present. Elder Daniells related something of his experiences in connection with our European schools which he has recently visited, and his words were listened to with the keenest interest by every one present. The thought primarily emphasized was the necessity of putting the whole heart and soul into the work, depending on the power of God to develop mind and character, rather than leaning on worldly wisdom and knowledge gained in technical study. While this latter is valuable and of great assistance to the future worker, yet the main dependence is on spirituality and communion with God, which can be obtained only by giving the whole heart, soul, and mind to the proclamation of the gospel. The other brethren emphasized points of practical value to the students, so that the opening hour was one long to be remembered by every one who was present. It is with much gratitude and thanksgiving to God that we take up the work of another year, and our hearts are greatly rejoiced in the fact that another institution is in existence and actively at work in carrying forward the message of love and mercy to which the denomination stands pledged. As the servant of the Lord has spoken definitely concerning this institution, and has mapped out particular lines of work which must be done by it, we believe it will accomplish much in advancing the interests of the closing message. With the blessing of God which has thus far prospered this work, and to which we look for success in coming days, we can see no reason why this institution should not accomplish all that the Lord intended in its establishment; and that this privilege may be the experience of the school, we most earnestly ask the united prayers of our brethren throughout the field, being confident that the Lord is able to finish as well as begin his work, and feeling certain that those who have so liberally contributed of their means for the upbuilding of the college will be interested in its prosperity and advancement now that its work is beginning. J. W. LAWHEAD.