Self-Supporting Workers' Convention by W. R. Burrows; M. B. Van Kirk

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 30, 1909

Self-Supporting Workers' Convention

By W. R. Burrows; M. B. Van Kirk

At the Nashville Agricultural and Normal Institute, which is situated at Madison, Tenn., on August 28, 29, was held a convention for self-supporting workers who are conducting small school farms tributary to the mother institution at Madison. On Friday night, August 27, a number of these workers, with their wives and other representatives from their schools, were present at the opening meeting, which was held on the lawn in front of Gotzian Hall.

Sabbath morning a large number of visitors from Edgefield Junction and Nashville came to spend the day. The Sabbath-school services were in the nature of a convention, in which the discussion of opportunities for work among hill people through the medium of the Sunday-school was quite thoroughly canvassed. Later, Elder W. R. Burrows gave a discourse on the theme of self-supporting work.

The afternoon was taken up by a meeting in which Prof. E. A. Sutherland related some experiences, and gave an interesting talk on the value of definite effort in this field. He also read a number of selections from the Bible and the Testimonies. His talk was followed by an interesting social meeting, in which every worker expressed gladness at being here in this needy field. All regretted the absence of Prof. P. T. Magan, who was called away to attend camp-meetings in the North.

Evening after the Sabbath the regular business of the convention was introduced. Upon motion, Professor Sutherland was elected chairman of the convention, and Miss Bessie DeGraw secretary. The business of the meeting was pushed forward with despatch, and a great deal was accomplished in the remaining hours of the evening and on Sunday. Reports were rendered in person and by letter from the various schools. One from Cuba was read by Miss Kinsman, who has been assisting her brother in that field during the past year. As we listened to the interesting reports of work done, our hearts were made glad; for we believe that God is directing in this work, and is reaching many souls with this truth through this medium.

It is interesting to note that two churches were organized at places where two of these highland schools are located. These churches form a nucleus; and as the highland people are convinced of the truth, they will have a home church to unite with. The churches were admitted to the conference at its last session, August 12-22.

The great burden of the convention was to instil into the minds of the workers and of those in attendance the need of consecrated lives and careful example, the influence of which will tell in the neighborhood where these workers reside.

During the day, Sunday, the committee on resolutions presented several plans for future work, which will no doubt be given to the public in due time by the institution.

For ourselves, we can say that the convention was a pleasant gathering. We enjoyed the spirit of consecration and loyalty manifested for the cause of truth. We believe that the plans laid for future work were wise, and by the grace of God can be carried out in this field to the advancement of the special truths for which this school stands. We trust that each succeeding convention will show a constant upward trend.

W. R. Burrows, M. B. Van Kirk.