A Splendid Institute by J. A. Applegate

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 30, 1916

A Splendid Institute

By J. A. Applegate

The accompanying picture of the group of colporteurs and prospective colporteurs gathered at the recent institute held in Burlington, Vt., cannot convey the spirit of earnest enthusiasm and consecration to the work manifested by each one attending.

From the very first, it was evident that angels of God were present. The work started with a consecration service led by the conference president, Elder R. J. Bryant. Those attending the institute were of “one heart and one soul” in seeking divine help. Elder Bryant gave practical, spiritual Bible studies from day to day.

Brother V. O. Cole, our veteran field secretary, gave the general instruction on principles and methods. This was very clear and pointed, and was highly appreciated by the entire class. In fact, each succeeding lesson seemed to surpass the previous one.

This institute was attended continuously by the conference president, the

secretary-treasurer, and the home missionary secretary, as well as by the local field secretary. We especially appreciated a visit from the branch house manager, Brother L. W. Graham.

Twenty persons were in regular attendance at the classes, and seven of these studied the splendid new edition of “Bible Readings,” three studied “The Great Controversy,” three “Heralds of the Morning,” four “Bible Footlights,” and three “The Coming King.” Others from the Burlington church attended the classes part of the time, and plan on entering the work later in the season.

COLPORTEURS IN NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND CONFERENCE

One feature of this institute of especial interest was the fact that each one present set a goal to be reached during the remainder of the year. These goals ranged from $1,000 to $3,000, and totaled $12,100. We confidently expect to make more than this amount of sales in the Northern New England Conference during 1916.

Splendid meals, prepared by the wife of one of the regular colporteurs, were served. The members of the Burlington church did everything in their power to entertain us and to make the institute a success, and our stay among them will be long remembered. They took turns in bringing in cooked food and supplies.

The public services conducted each evening by Elder Bryant were on the topics of the day, and were illustrated by stereopticon views. They were well attended by those not of our faith. These studies were also a great help to the colporteurs present. The closing service was on the temperance question, and was preparatory to the temperance campaign in the State of Vermont.

We firmly believe this institute marks the dawning of a new day in the colporteur work in the Northern New England Conference, and rejoice to see that our goal of $10,000 in sales, set during the union conference, was too small. God wants to do a large work through his people, and we are determined by his help to do our part.

J. A. APPLEGATE.