The Washington Council
By Arthur G. Daniells
THIS council was held, according to appointment, October 7-21. Nearly all the members of the General Conference Committee residing in the United States were present. The majority of the presidents of the State conferences east of the Rocky Mountains were also in attendance, and several physicians and lay brethren were with us. This gave us a large and representative gathering for what is usually termed the fall council of the General Conference Committee. But the situation called for such an attendance. It had been two years since the committee had had a satisfactory council. Many important, far-reaching questions had to be dealt with. It was a source of much satisfaction to the members of the committee to have the presence, deep interest, and valuable assistance of so many brethren bearing the chief responsibilities in a large part of this country. It will be impossible to convey in a brief report a full statement of the value of the meeting. The principal recommendations that were passed have already been published in the REVIEW. But it should be understood that the mere passing of recommendations, however good and far-reaching they may be, does not constitute the greatest value of a gathering like our recent council. The study and discussion of the questions in their broad bearings on this work give greater value to the meeting than the simple adoption of recommendations. But the study and discussion of the council can not be reported in a brief statement. Therefore only those present can fully appreciate the value of the meeting. The council was characterized by peace, harmony, and hard work. Very little criticism was heard. While the fullest and freest liberty was granted to all to think and speak as seemed right, there was general harmony regarding all fundamental questions. Although there was a long, hard list of matters to be dealt with, they were nearly all carefully considered, and conscientiously disposed of, giving evidence of painstaking effort by the members of the council. In subsequent issues of the REVIEW we shall take up some of the most important recommendations, and enlarge upon them. This report can only refer to the general features. We were pleased to have so many of our representative men visit our new headquarters, and study our conditions, and counsel us regarding the development of the work here. We spent a portion of one day at Takoma Park, inspecting our site. As far as the brethren expressed themselves, there was general satisfaction with all they saw. When we came to outline the plans and provide the funds for the development of the work here, the brethren exhibited what impressed me as splendid wisdom and courage. Their decisions exceeded my fondest expectations. As they viewed the situation, they could do nothing else than lay broad plans, and provide for large funds. The undaunted courage manifested by these brethren was exceedingly cheering. It is an omen of good success. As I review our council, I regret that we did not take more time for earnest prayer for the outpouring of the latter rain. The baptism of the Spirit is our greatest need. It is my prayer that our efforts to carry out the broad, consistent plans laid for the advancement of this cause will lead us all to seek most earnestly for this baptism. This is our need. This blessing will bring all other blessings in its train. Next week we shall take up the study of some of the most important measures passed by the council.