Teachers' and Canvassers' Institute at Brusque, Santa Catharina, Brazil
By John Lipke
DURING the month of February, 1904, our first teachers' and canvassers' institute was held in our mission school at Brusque. It was attended by our people from the south of this State, from the States of Sao Paulo, Parana, Espirito Santo, and Rio Grande do Sul. Some came to receive instruction in teaching, others to get a short training that they might sell our books and papers from house to house. Including those from our church here, we had a daily attendance of about thirty-five. This was the first institute ever held in Brazil. Brother Spies gave instruction to the canvassers, and the writer gave general instruction to all, especially to the teachers. From the first, the presence of the Lord was with us. The Holy Spirit made hearts tender during the first two hours, and sins were confessed. Our regular work was conducted from 7 to 11 A. M. daily, except Friday and Sabbath. The first hour was devoted to Bible study. While studying the life and work of the apostles, especially Paul, we learned to see our work, our duty, and the wonderful guidance of God in his work. It was shown how the first Christians under great difficulties carried forward the work entrusted to them, and that we have to do likewise in the proclamation of this last great message, walking by faith, and not by sight. The experiences of the prophet Jeremiah taught us the truth of Zech. 4: 6, and how obedient we should be in the smallest things in order to do the Lord's work acceptably. We must be led by the Spirit of God in our work. From 8 to 9 A. M. teachers and canvassers were separated. From 9 to 10 A. M. all came together again to consider the wonderful construction22of the body, the harmonious working of its organs, how to live, etc. Truly, we are fearfully and wonderfully made. From 10 to 11 A. M. canvassers and teachers separated again. The canvassers were instructed by Brother Spies, in those things which pertain to the canvassing work. They learned that it is missionary work, and as such is as important as the work of the minister. Ministers and canvassers are co-laborers, and ought to work together. The canvassers will labor under Brother Spies in the neighborhood of Joinville. The teachers enjoyed the discourses on the history of education, our position in the educational work of these last days, divine principles in discipline, etc. The twenty-eighth of February a school entertainment was given, which was attended by people from the surrounding country. Ten students addressed the audience. Precious truth came from their lips, and many souls were blessed, encouraged, and strengthened. Teachers and students will go out to give the last message of warning to a fallen world. Nine teachers returned to their labors, expecting to work by faith, and not by sight. May God bless them! At the close of this institute we can only praise the Lord for the assurance that as he has been with us in the past, so he will be with us in the future. With courage, depending upon the guiding of God's Spirit, we go forward in this dark, sinful country.