p. 15 | The Oakwood Ministerial Institute by A. J. Haysmer

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 4, 1911

The Oakwood Ministerial Institute

By A. J. Haysmer

The ministerial institute for the Southern and Southeastern Union missions was held at the Oakwood Manual Training School at Huntsville, Ala., March 23 to April 10.

We have had summer schools and institutes for our teachers and canvassers, but this was the first institute ever held in this country for our colored ministers and Bible workers. All felt the need of such a gathering, and arrangements were made so that all these laborers, about thirty in number, could attend.

We had five studies daily. The regular instructors were Elders K. C. Russell, Chas. Thompson, C. F. McVagh, and the writer. Prof. H. M. Hyatt gave a few interesting lectures on Christian education, illustrated by large charts. These were much appreciated. Drs. M. M. Martinson and Lottie Isabel-Blake gave several lectures on health principles. Dr. Martinson gave an interesting stereopticon lecture on hookworm and malaria; Elder Russell also gave one on the subject of religious liberty.

The subjects studied were of a practical nature, covering the points that would help to develop all-round gospel workers. The times in which we are living; the conditions to be met; the message due to the world at this time and how it should be presented; the ministry, its high calling, responsibilities, and work; the need and workings of the Holy Spirit, and the conditions upon which it can be received; faith; prayer; organization; church discipline; how to conduct different kinds of services; the pitching and care of gospel tents, etc., were among the subjects considered.

The institute was a blessing to the students attending the school. Nearly all attended the night services. A number gave their hearts to the Lord; and nearly all, both workers and students, reconsecrated themselves to his service.

The last Sabbath of the institute was a good day. In the forenoon Elder Russell gave a soul-stirring discourse, and an excellent social service followed. In the afternoon the writer spoke on the gospel ministry, and at the close Brother G. E. Peters was set apart to that sacred work.

I am sure that this institute will mark a new era in the work among the colored people in these union conferences. There was developed a spirit of harmony and loyalty to the organized work that means much at this time. Without an exception, the testimonies borne expressed great appreciation of the help received, and all return to their fields of labor with a better knowledge of what the Lord expects of them, and with renewed courage and strength to labor more successfully for souls. We expect to see great results from the efforts put forth the coming year.

On Sunday, April 9, the new buildings were formally dedicated. In the evening the students gave an interesting musical and literary entertainment, which was a credit to themselves and to those in charge of the school.

A. J. HAYSMER.