Michigan by K. C. Russell

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 9, 1910

Michigan

By K. C. Russell

BATTLE CREEK AND BERRIEN SPRINGS. — Sunday evening, May 22, I spent in Battle Creek, Mich., and had the pleasure of listening to a missionary program presented in the Tabernacle by the students of the Battle Creek church-school. The main auditorium was well filled, with quite a number in the galleries. In all the exercises, which were under the supervision of Prof. Clifford Russell, principal of the school, the missionary feature was made prominent. Such a training can not fail to result in molding the minds of the children in harmony with the self-sacrificing principles of the gospel of Christ. At the conclusion of the exercises, a missionary offering was taken up. There is an enrolment in this school of about one hundred, with four teachers employed. We shall expect to see recruits for the mission field, from this school, who will help to carry the third angel’s message to those who sit in darkness.

While in Battle Creek, I spent the night at the hospitable home of Elder G. W. Amadon, who has been in very poor health for some time. It is a satisfaction to meet the pioneers of the work of God, and to see them as firm and loyal to the principles of the truth as they were in earlier days, when they were young and vigorous. Even in his advanced years, Brother Amadon finds plenty to do in the way of imparting counsel, speaking encouraging words, and praying for those who are sick or in trial,—work that is spoken of as “pure religion” by the Lord through the apostle James. Let none who are advancing in years feel that their days of usefulness are over; for the exhortation given under the influence of the Holy Spirit, “In the evening withhold not thy hand,” evidently refers to those who are in the evening of life, or old age.

Elder J. M. Wilbur, who has been faithfully serving as the pastor of the Battle Creek church for the past year, is soon to connect with the work in the East Michigan Conference. He will reside in Saginaw, Mich.

The church at Battle Creek is anxiously awaiting the time when Elder E. W. Farnsworth will enter upon his work in that place. The members seem greatly encouraged at the prospect that the annual camp-meeting of the West Michigan Conference will be held in the vicinity of Battle Creek.

On the evening of May 23 the graduating exercises of the Emmanuel Missionary College were held in the college chapel at Berrien Springs, Mich. The chapel was appropriately decorated for the occasion, and stretching above the platform was the significant class motto, “Forward, Come What May!” The address was delivered by the writer, on the subject, “The Resultant of Spiritual Forces.” The exercises were well attended by our people who reside in the vicinity of the college and by the parents and friends of some of the students. The graduating class numbered nineteen, representing the collegiate, advanced normal, commercial, and academic courses.

One of the most encouraging features in connection with the closing of this term of school was the spiritual victory gained. During the term nearly every student has taken a firm stand on the Lord’s side.

This college is soon to be incorporated, so that degrees can be granted to its students. Its prospects for the future are bright. The location makes it especially desirable, as it is away from the evil influences of a large city. Our people in the Lake Union Conference who have children should place them in this school, where they can be speedily trained to become efficient workers in the cause of God.

K. C. RUSSELL.