Opening of Washington Training College by J. W. Lawhead

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Nov 1, 1906

Opening of Washington Training College

By J. W. Lawhead

The Washington Training College opened September 19, according to announcement, and at the present writing the school is well organized, and the prospect is good for a prosperous year. While the enrolment is not so large as we had hoped, yet there is an increase over last year. The students are also of more mature years and of much better mental development, so that they are able to take hold of the work of the school with energy and with promise of success. Every student is a Christian, and almost every one is here for the purpose of preparation to engage in some particular department of denominational service. This is the most gratifying fact in connection with the work of the new year; and as our students have been drawn from seventeen States and two foreign countries, and are mostly planning on returning to the home fields when school is over, the influence of the College will not be localized.

Shortly after the opening of the school, the General Conference Council was held here at the College buildings, thus affording excellent opportunity for our young people to meet and become somewhat acquainted with the leaders of the denomination, and to get their ideas adjusted to conditions as they exist to-day. This was helpful in indicating the lines of study necessary for preparation.

The enrolment is steadily increasing, and many earnest inquiries are being received from individuals who are hoping to connect with the school at no distant date, so that the outlook for the future is encouraging. As we do not receive young students, it follows that one who is through school is of sufficient age to enter the work; and it therefore seems that the denomination will at no distant day receive the measure of benefit expected when giving money for the erection of this institution. In fact, our young men are actively at work at the present time in holding Bible readings and presenting the truth as they have opportunity. Others of our young men have arranged to visit some of the near-by churches to hold meetings with them on the Sabbath, thus gaining a valuable experience for themselves as well as being able to render some help in the churches.

Because of all these facts and conditions, the managers of the school feel to rejoice and praise God for what has been given, and are of good courage for what they believe will be accomplished in the days to come.

J. W. LAWHEAD.