The Philadelphia Ministerial Institute by W. B. White

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 27, 1911

The Philadelphia Ministerial Institute

By W. B. White

This convention opened April 12, according to appointment, and at the present writing (April 20) about one hundred seventy-five delegates are in attendance. These workers have come from every conference in the Columbia, Atlantic, and Canadian unions. All present feel that this institute is a rare occasion, and are trying to improve the time.

Elders A. G. Daniells, W. A. Spicer, and G. B. Thompson have been leading in the studies. Elder Daniells has given lessons on the importance and sacredness of the gospel ministry, and on methods of work. This instruction has been replete with many warnings and helpful suggestions. Those present have greatly appreciated these lessons, and we feel that they will be of untold value to our workers. Each day, also, he has answered questions that have been placed in the question-box. Many questions have been asked on all phases of the work, and careful, thoughtful attention has been given to the answers. This has been a valuable feature of the institute.

Elder Spicer has been giving a valuable series of lessons on the fulfillment of prophecy in the rise and progress of this work. These lessons have been rich in thought, and intensely interesting to all.

Elder Thompson has been dwelling on the preparation that is needed by the gospel worker, that his work may be effective in the field. He has clearly pointed out that the great need of today is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in life and heart, that the ministry of the Word may be fulfilled. In fact, the leading theme of the institute has been that sin must be entirely surrendered, that the consecration of the individual to the work must be complete, and that there must be prevailing prayer and strong faith that will bring to the worker the power of God for his work.

Needless to say, as these lessons have day by day been brought before the workers, all have felt their great need of more of God's blessing, and precious experiences have been gained.

The West Philadelphia church building and the Pennsylvania Sanitarium have afforded excellent accommodations for this gathering. All have been made comfortable, and no pains has been spared by those in charge to make the institute a success. We feel that it will be of untold value to the delegates from the several conferences, and we only wish that every worker in the three unions could have been with us. The institute is to close April 26.

W. B. WHITE