Suggestions to Church Elders
It is not too early to begin to prepare for the week of prayer. Let every service until the first Sabbath of that occasion—December 9—be spent in seeking the Lord, that this year may not close without marked evidences of his blessing and presence among his people. Let this be a season of special effort for the unconverted and backslidden. Announce the meetings early, and urge a full attendance. The readings may be presented by different ones. Let these be appointed before the time so that they may study the readings, and be able to give them as meat in due season to the people. It would be well to arrange each day's program in advance, if possible, selecting appropriate scriptures and hymns. After the reading, there should be time for prayer and social meeting. Encourage all to take some part in the meetings, that all may share in the revival and blessing which we are to receive at this time. The envelopes for the annual offerings should be distributed the first Sabbath of the week of prayer. Make an effort to reach all the absent members. Collect the offerings on the last Sabbath, after the reading. The annual offering this year ought to be larger than ever before. The condition of our missions demands it, the time in which we are living demands it, and our own soul's salvation depends very largely on the attitude we assume toward the Lord's work at this time. Our offering will show whether we intend to hasten the third angel's message throughout the world during the next year, or whether we are willing that the work shall still move slowly. What do we say? Can we not work to double last year's annual offering? Emphasize the need. Much depends upon the efforts of the elder. The cash offering should be sent at once to your conference treasurer, as the money is needed. Later gifts may be forwarded at the end of the month, with your regular remittances, to your treasurer. GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE.