Convention at Madison, Tenn
By S. Brownsberger
THE writer had the pleasure of attending a quarterly convention of self-supporting workers, beginning May 6, at the Nashville Agricultural and Normal Institute, at Madison, Tenn. Representatives from several of the outpost schools were in attendance, including Brother and Sister Kinsman, from Cuba. We were very glad to meet Elder A. O. Burrill, and with him recall the pleasant associations of nearly forty years ago. On Sabbath morning, May 7, he gave an instructive discourse, based on Prov. 31:30 and following verses. On Sabbath afternoon the writer gave, by request, a brief review of the first steps in establishing schools among our people. Following this, the relation of self-supporting work to our regular organized work was freely discussed. A very interesting feature of the convention was the report of successes and failures in the industrial enterprises in the different self-supporting schools. It was gratifying to note the spirit of consecration and courage manifested in these reports. Never have I seen a more earnest, enthusiastic company of workers in the third angel's message. Elder C. F. McVagh, president of the Southern Union Conference, and Elder A. J. Haysmer, secretary of the educational department for our colored brethren, were present, and by their counsel and active participation added much to the success of the convention. It was voted to hold an annual convention lasting ten days for the purpose of bringing all the workers in the self-supporting schools together. Besides this, quarterly local conventions were planned for. The effect of this meeting will be to inspire all the workers with a greater zeal and devotion, and give a new impetus to the self-supporting work.