Colporteurs’ Institute in South India

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 24, 1912

Colporteurs’ Institute in South India

Brother J. S. James gives the following interesting account of this institute:—

“We have just closed an interesting and profitable institute for our colporteurs, who are assembled at this place. Nine persons took the regular training. One came from Madras, five from Tinnevelli, one from Pondicherry, and two were from Trichinopoli. This was the most unique and interesting institute I have ever had the privilege of conducting. Our sole stock of literature consisted of four small tracts on doctrinal subjects, and the Bible. We had no printed canvass nor prospectus, not even a book to study. Our men were all of limited education, some never having

been away from home in their lives. But these things are of little hindrance to a man of faith and strong determination, and God can accomplish wonders where there is a willing heart and mind.

“Our institute was divided into three sessions. At 7 A. M. we had a Bible study especially designed for workers. At 10:30 A. M. we took up practical subjects, and had a drill on various points of business. Most of the day until 6:30 P. M. was spent in canvassing in the city, and in attending to other duties. We then gathered to study the fundamentals of the message. Inasmuch as the chief literature to be handled by our men would be the Tamil journal, in which would be presented the various phases of truth from time to time, it seemed essential that our colporteurs be thoroughly familiar with the leading points of our faith. To this end we directed our efforts during the institute.

“While the institute was in progress, our Tamil magazine was going through the press. Finished copies were given us just at the close of our session, which enabled us to drill the workers on its contents and how to present it. We were all greatly rejoiced that it was possible to have this journal for the men to take to their fields. Before dividing them among the workers, we all knelt around the bundles and asked God to bless the pages of truth as they were placed in the hands of the people, and in a special manner to sustain and bless those who were to carry them.

“On July 29 the men were sent out, two and two, into near-by territory, where their work could be easily superintended. As I write this (August 5), the first reports of three men have arrived, and the total sales for a week for each far surpass my expectations.”