p. 17 | Fifth Session of the Atlantic Union Conference

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 6, 1910

Fifth Session of the Atlantic Union Conference

By Arthur G. Daniells

THE fifth session of the Atlantic Union Conference was held at South Lancaster, Mass., Nov. 18-28, 1909. In addition to the full delegate representation, the meeting was attended by brethren and sisters from the various local conferences. These, with the members of the South Lancaster church and the students of the academy, made a larger congregation than we usually have at other union conferences.

At first the delegation hardly seemed complete, owing to the absence of the representatives who had formerly been present from the New Jersey, Eastern Pennsylvania, West Pennsylvania, Chesapeake, Virginia, and West Virginia conferences. The absence of delegates from these conferences is explained by the fact that two years ago these conferences were cut off from the Atlantic Union Conference, and, with Ohio, were organized into the Columbia Union Conference. And yet with these six conferences cut off, there seemed to be just as much work for the union conference session to take care of as there was before the separation. This is due, in part, to the general progress of the cause, and the development of the different departments of the work in the East since the organization of the Atlantic Union Conference nine years ago.

Another reason why this union conference, with the loss of nearly one half of its former constituency, still finds its hands full of work, is because closer and more direct attention is being given to the details of union conference interests. This means substantial and well-balanced development of all phases of the work.

Only a short time before the conference convened, a change was made in the presidency of the union by the resignation of Elder E. W. Farnsworth and the election by the Committee of Elder W. B. White. This change was made so that Elder Farnsworth could answer the call from the General Conference to engage in the general interests of the work in the United States. Brother White's slight acquaintance with many of the delegates and problems in the East made it a little difficult for him to direct the affairs of the conference. But he had the hearty support of his associates, and the various interests received careful and thorough consideration.

The business proceedings were of the usual kind. The conference accepted its part of the responsibility to raise the $300,000 for facilities and homes in the mission fields. It also voted to take an active part in the campaign to sell two copies of “Ministry of Healing” a member each year for three years, in behalf of our sanitariums that need financial help.

As this union conference has many large cities in its territory, it was decided to carry forward a stronger effort in behalf of these cities than we have heretofore.

A few important changes were made in conference affairs. At the earnest request of the brethren and sisters from Maine, Elder O. Montgomery, president of the Vermont Conference, was transferred to Maine to act as president. Elder W. H. Holden was chosen president of Vermont, and that part of New Hampshire which has heretofore been connected with the Central New England Conference was transferred to Vermont. This will increase the population of the Vermont Conference, and add to the church-membership, and also to their staff of workers. After releasing New Hampshire, the Central New England Conference still has a large population. It is hoped this change will prove a blessing to all concerned.

In harmony with his personal wishes, Elder M. L. Andreasen was released from the presidency of the Greater New York Conference, and Elder R. D. Quinn was elected to that position. Brother Andreasen will devote his entire time to evangelistic work among the Danes and Norwegians in New York City.

The interests of the Melrose Sanitarium and the South Lancaster Academy were given careful consideration. The sanitarium has of late had a very good patronage. The academy has the largest attendance ever recorded in its history. But both institutions are staggering under such heavy loads of debts that it is very difficult to operate them without loss. The situation was so serious that the delegates gave the boards of management positive instruction not to increase the indebtedness of either institution. This means, of course, that the conferences in this union must come to the help of these institutions, and aid the managers in every way they can to reduce expenses and increase receipts. These institutions are doing good work, and are worthy of all the help they need to place them in a better financial condition.

Elder G. A. Irwin attended the first part of the conference, and gave a series of studies on the spirit of prophecy; Elder O. A. Olsen was present during the latter part. During the entire conference, Prof. W. W. Prescott conducted a series of very instructive Bible studies on the prophecies of Daniel and The Revelation. Those in charge of the conference endeavored to make the spiritual interests of the meeting prominent and strong. While our desires in this respect were not fully realized, the Lord gave us blessings for which we are truly grateful, and we take up the work of another biennial term with renewed courage. It is our earnest prayer that the Lord will give all a fuller measure of the Holy Spirit for victory over sin, and for power in his service.

A. G. DANIELLS.