The Advantages of a Training-School at Washington, D. C.
By W. T. Bland
When it was decided to establish the headquarters of the denomination at Washington, D. C., at once the advantages in the location of a training-school at the same place were apparent. Certainly here, in connection with the general offices where many of the great problems of the advancing message must be worked out, would be an ideal place for an institution of this kind. The importance of the location in itself should not be overlooked. Washington is rapidly becoming one of the most prominent cities of the world. Here are gathered from all over the country the men who make the laws of the land. The great government departments, with their thousands of officers and clerks, are located here. Here are also gathered the representatives of the various foreign nations of the world. Washington differs from other places in that it is not a factory or commercial city. The hours for labor are short, and the people have much time for study and thought. This makes it a favorable place for our ministers and Bible workers to present the truth, and for students in the training-school to have an actual experience in the various lines of work for which they are fitting themselves. Here students will have access to the Congressional Library, considered one of the finest of its kind in the world; also the Smithsonian Institute, the National Museum, the Patent Offices, the Art Gallery, and other places containing collections for study and information. In the construction of buildings for the offices of the General Conference, the publishing house, the sanitarium, and even in the erection of the school buildings themselves, an opportunity will be furnished from the very start in giving employment and training to the students. Here may be actually worked out plans and methods of education that have long been considered and discussed. The experiences in the establishment of all our schools in the past will be available, and considered with a view that the mistakes may be avoided and successes taken advantage of. Just as soon as the time arrives to begin vigorously pushing the work of building, it is desired that the actual work of the school shall begin. The superintendents and foremen will have completed their plans; and, as far as possible, the work of building, and of laying out and beautifying the grounds, will be done by student labor. The plan of study and labor will be so combined that the students will be able to meet much, if not all, of their expenses. Especially will this be so while the buildings are in progress of construction. As may be observed from a glance at the map, the climate of Washington is such that much outdoor work may be done. The winters are short and comparatively mild, thus the building season is much longer than in the North. Especially during the first year of the school only those should come who are able and willing to work. While the students are pursuing their studies, helping in the construction of the buildings and in other lines of employment, opportunities will also be found for Bible work, canvassing, and other forms of religious work, as the student may have ability to undertake. Young men will be wanted who can be trusted, who can work, and who are willing to consecrate their lives to the Master's service, and to be trained for whatever responsibilities he may have for them. Such young men are always in demand, and will find here a wonderful opportunity for just the training they need. A number of earnest, devoted young women will also be furnished with employment; for much will be found that they can do that will assist them largely, if not wholly, in defraying their expenses. Announcements will be published as soon as definite arrangements have been made for the work to begin. No one should come without first making definite arrangements. Correspondence is invited, and full instruction and information will be given on request.