A Cause for Rejoicing by K. C. R.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 16, 1911

A Cause for Rejoicing

By K. C. R.

WE are confident that every Seventh-day Adventist will rejoice to know that the Johnston Sunday bill and all other religious measures that were pending in Congress died March 4, with the close of the Sixty-first Congress. This session came nearer to enacting a Sunday law than any previous session. At different times during the past two years, it has seemed to us that nothing could prevent the passage of one or more of these measures; but at such periods, when our work seemed most critical, we have, in a most special way, sought the Lord; and as a result these measures have failed to become law, and finally died with the close of the Sixty-first Congress.

It must be evident to those acquainted with the determined and persistent efforts exerted by the promoters of religious legislation, to secure the passage of the Johnston Sunday bill and similar measures, that the failure of these bills to become law was not simply a matter of chance, but rather the result of the direct influence of God's restraining power.

In view of the signal victory that the Lord has again given, how should we relate ourselves to the situation? Shall we lay down the weapons of our warfare, and retire from the conflict? or shall we regard this time of respite as another opportunity granted us in which to warn the honest in heart of the coming crisis?

It is evident from statements which are being made by prominent advocates of Sunday legislation in reference to a stricter observance of Sunday in the District of Columbia, that they purpose to continue their struggle for a Sunday law for the District. The Washington Post of March 6 contains the following statement from Dr. Wallace Radcliffe, chairman of the Sunday Observance Committee of the District of Columbia:—

“It is the general feeling among religious people of all classes that unless something is speedily done about the custom [of entertainments on Sunday], the religious life of the capital city may be threatened, and that of the nation become

undermined. . . . Another reason why Sunday is observed so little in Washington is that the laws here are not strict enough. We have been trying to get Congress to pass a bill for three years, which would prohibit barbers and others from working on Sunday, but so far we have been unsuccessful.”

The foregoing statements from an influential source are sufficient evidence that efforts to secure a District Sunday law will not cease. Without doubt those who favor such religious enactments are laying deeper plans than ever for the accomplishment of their purposes. There is no doubt that one or more Sunday bills will be introduced into the extra session of Congress, which will convene Tuesday, April 4. Let us not slacken our zeal, but, instead, redouble our energies in this battle for truth and right.

K. C. R.