p. 18 | Missionary Volunteer Reading Courses by M. E.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 7, 1910

Missionary Volunteer Reading Courses

By M. E.

Last fall our young people were invited to join a spare-minute circle. The older young people took up the reading of three good books, and for our juniors two books were selected. Many young people enrolled; a large number are persevering in their decision, and some have reread at least the first book. One writes, “I wish I could remember every word in ‘Quiet Talks,’ it is so good.” O the comfort, the inexpressible comfort, of the friendship of good books! They help to fortify the mind against temptation, they comfort and cheer, they inform and inspire us with the experiences of others.

The first book in the senior course can not fail to create in the earnest reader a deeper desire for unselfish service, nor can he close that book without knowing better how to serve. The second book acquaints the reader with one of the earth’s most needy mission fields, while the last in the course is the history of our denominational work. Are not these important subjects? Do they not bear strongly upon the salvation of our youth? The first book in the junior course is filled with beautiful stories of the Holy Land, while the last will call the attention of the readers to the birds which God sends to cheer his children.

I am wondering if we are doing all in our power to acquaint our youth with these good books. Young people will read, and what they read will as surely influence their lives as does the air they breathe. If some young people in your home or your church have lost out by the way, will not you help them to grasp anew this opportunity to make themselves more useful to the world, choicer comrades to their friends, more wholesome companions for themselves, and better messengers for the Master? The books may still be secured; the course still may be completed, and the blessing still be enjoyed—even at this eleventh hour. Encourage those who have begun, to press on!

M. E.