How to Use Tracts by H. H. HALL

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 8, 1910

How to Use Tracts

By H. H. HALL

A Simple Plan for Systematic Work

(Third reading)

The experience of years in tract circulation demonstrates that no iron-clad rules can be laid down for their use. They are “seeds” that may be planted here, there, and everywhere, personally and through the mails, with the hope of arousing interest in the truth. Some of the most thrilling experiences in connection with the work of this message are the results of faithful work with tracts, which, although presenting ideas that may be at first unwelcome, finally convict the reader of the truth. On this point the spirit of prophecy teaches that “the missionary work, in circulating the publications upon present truth, is opening doors everywhere, and preparing minds to receive the truth, when the living preacher shall come among them. The success which attends the efforts of ministers in the field is not due alone to their efforts, but in a great degree to the influence of the reading-matter which has enlightened the minds of the people and removed prejudice.”—“Gospel Workers,” page 410.

House-to-House Work

The envelope system makes possible a systematic, house-to-house work, which may be taken up as follows:—

1. Each volunteer for the work should say about how many homes he or she can conveniently visit regularly. Ordinarily, ten, six, or even four, are enough for the average person to attempt at once.

2. Take seven envelopes, numbering them 1, 2, 3, etc., and then fill these with the tracts suggested in the list given below. As many sets as needed may be made up in the same way, and delivered to workers.

3. Worker begins with No. 1, visiting homes in his territory, and leaving one envelope-package with each.

4. The following week No. 2 is used, and No. 1 is taken up, unless the reader wishes to keep it.

5. If possible, have a regular time for going; keep the work up, giving out the next number each week, and taking up the one preceding.

District the Territory

By districting the territory, and beginning new territory as tracts are collected, a small company can work a large section thoroughly. The work proves interesting because it brings the worker directly in contact with the needs of the people. Avoid arguments. As far as possible, let the literature answer inquiries.

In a church the work should be in charge of the missionary secretary (librarian), who should know just where each one is working, so as to direct intelligently.

“The Pocket League”

All have opportunities to use tracts as they pursue their regular work. After arranging the tracts for systematic work, some will remain unused. This has been planned so that extra copies of these excellent numbers may be handed out as desired by the worker. In one conference the missionary secretary is forming the “Pocket League,” the members of which dedicate a pocket to this work. Ladies also are joining, dedicating a portion of the hand-bag. “Work as you go. Be always prepared.”

Suggestive Packages for Envelope Use

No. 1

Justified by Faith

The Name

Winning of Margaret

No. 2

We Would See Jesus

Heralds of His Coming

Way to Christ

No. 3

Waymarks to the Holy City

Elihu on the Sabbath

It Doesn’t Pay

How Esther Read Her Bible

No. 4

Demons’ Council

Who Changed the Sabbath?

Back to the Old Paths

No. 5

Topical Bible Studies

New Testament Sabbath

Thoughts for the Candid

No. 6

Rich Man and Lazarus

The Seventh, or One Seventh?

Which Day, and Why?

No. 7

Seal of God

Is Man Immortal?

Sunday in a Nutshell

Signs of the End

This list is only suggestive. Different arrangements may be found more suitable in your neighborhood.

H. H. HALL.