Rich Fields of Toil for Faithful Workers
By W. H. Thurston
Since the organization of the Canadian Union Conference I have been looking over the field, and corresponding with the presidents of Conferences, and I find that there is great need of more laborers in all departments of the work. The canvassing work is at a low ebb, and there is not a provincial agent in the field. Steps are being taken, however, to supply this need, but we still desire one more man of this calling. Evangelistic canvassers are needed, from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic, and it is hoped that our sister Conferences will share with us by encouraging some of their good book men to come over the line. Our cities are in need of Bible workers; but in looking over the field, it seems to me that the number of our Bible workers is diminishing instead of increasing. Should there not be others in training, that this good work be not left to languish? In every province there is an urgent call for medical missionaries. Some have been provided, and I trust that others are forthcoming. The Drs. Lemon are now on their way to Newfoundland, to take up medical work; and Mr. Hanna, a graduated nurse, and his wife will probably go to New Brunswick in April. Church-school teachers are wanted, and it is gratifying to know that two have responded, but we need at least two more by the first of September. An industrial school will probably be started in Ontario next fall, and as soon as possible another will be started in the eastern part of the Union Conference. There is a call for more ministerial help, men who will do the work of an evangelist, and make full proof of their ministry. Canada is a good field, and the outlook is favorable for an ingathering of souls if we can get the help needed. The field is in need of workers,—men and women who will render whole-hearted, cheerful service,—workers who believe that their time belongs to God, and that they are under solemn obligations to improve it to His glory,—workers who know no defeat, and who will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, but ever press onward with good courage, expecting success. “The call of the hour is answered by the coming of the man,” and we trust these calls will all be answered. I believe that there are Conferences that could send us the help needed, and assist us for a time in the way of salaries, and thus share with us the blessing of getting the work well established in their sister country. Some are already responding in this manner, and no doubt others will as soon as they are made intelligent concerning the situation. Now to the presidents of our Conferences, especially those near by: Please do not wait to be interviewed personally, but volunteer to send us some good workers, and then be pleased to note our progress. I shall be glad to hear from you. We need canvassers as badly as we do ministers, and we will think just as much of them, and will go right into the field with them, and help them to succeed. The Lord is blessing the faithful, earnest efforts that are being put forth in the Canadian field; and although the work is great, and the laborers are few, yet we are looking forward to the coming of more workers and an abundant harvest. While we are calling for help from the States, we do not overlook the fact that there are a few young men and women in Canada who ought to be in training for the work, and join their forces with the few already in service, and I would say that steps are being taken to accomplish this. Many of our young people feel that they have no fitness for the work of the Lord; but if they would co-operate with divine power, and put on the armor, they would receive a qualification for sacred work. In the Week of Prayer Readings appeared the following: “The Lord imparts a fitness for the work to every man and woman who will co-operate with divine power. All the requisite talent, courage, perseverance, faith, and tact will come as they put the armor on.” This is very practical, and is right to the point. In conclusion, I would say that we are earnestly praying the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers into His harvest. Now as you hear the call, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” let the response come back, clear and distinct, “Here am I; send me.” W. H. Thurston.