PROGRESS OF THE READING CIRCLE WORK.
A STATE secretary writes:— I have written to all the librarians in the Conference concerning the Reading Circle work. In replying, nearly all speak of the interest manifested in the work, and of the expectation that others will soon join them in the studies. One librarian says that she does not see why we have not had something of this kind long ago. Another says it is just what she has wanted for a long time. I have worked hard to get the Circle work started in this Conference, but I do not regret it; for I think it is going to pay in the end. One of our ministers, who has been visiting the churches this winter, says that the Reading Circle work is a great blessing to the people. From the Pacific Coast comes a cheery letter from an enthusiastic State worker:— I think we are all agreed that the Reading Circle work has a blessed and saving influence wherever our people have taken it up. It is one of the most active factors for good in our Conference. I have not been able to ascertain just how many of our churches have begun this work, but most of our larger churches are enjoying the studies. I have started two circles in this city, and expect to start another next week. One is a circle of old ladies, and it has pleased me much to see how their minds have expanded, and their faces brightened. They have more to live for than before taking up these lessons. Another circle is composed of young matrons, and the third will be of young people. To me the fact of our people generally making a study of the prophecies at this time, is very significant. They were the constant study of the early pioneers in this truth, and we who are standing at the threshold of eternity and studying these things, shall soon have revealed to us “the Ancient of days.” I believe we can receive no better preparation for that glorious event than a minute and careful study of the prophecies. I wish to express a personal appreciation of the Missionary Reading Circle. This study of the truth, the world to which it is to be given, and how to give the message, means more to me than any previous study. Never did the truth seem more precious, and never did I so long to act a part in giving it to the world; and never before has the precious present truth seemed to so fill my soul with a consciousness of the inflowing of God's grace and power, preparatory to acting a part in the “loud cry.” “Great Empires of Prophecy” contains just the helps desired in obtaining a clear, well-connected knowledge of the prophecies we are studying, as well as many others. May the Lord greatly bless this work in behalf of his people, who greatly need just this instruction. H. A. WASHBURN.