The Close of Congress by K. C. Russell

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 14, 1907

The Close of Congress

By K. C. Russell

THE Fifty-ninth Congress closed at twelve o'clock March 4, 1907. It will be a source of satisfaction to the readers of the REVIEW to learn that H. R. Bill No. 16483, known as the Wadsworth Sunday Bill for the District of Columbia, died with the close of Congress. The clerk of the Senate Committee for the District of Columbia said concerning the protest our people had made against Sunday legislation, “You have done your work well.”

This is certainly an encouraging tribute to all who have taken part in opposing Sunday legislation by circulating petitions, writing letters, distributing literature, and enlightening the people in regard to the principles of religious liberty. The clerk of the Senate District Committee can speak intelligently, for he, better than any other person, knows the efforts which have been put forth by those favoring the bill and those who oppose it. His words should be an inspiration to all to continue patiently in well-doing.

The Chairman of the District Committee of the Senate told the writer that next year there would doubtless be a “long, hard hearing” on a Sunday bill for the District of Columbia. This, likewise, is a significant statement, as it indicates the struggle that is on between the friends and foes of religious liberty in this country.

These words should be a signal to every Seventh-day Adventist to double his efforts in enlightening the people in this country on the principles of religious liberty before the Sixtieth Congress convenes, Dec. 2, 1907.

Let all remember that the promoters of Sunday laws will be active in their efforts between now and the next Congress to mold public sentiment in harmony with their aims. Should not the friends of religious liberty be as active in educating the people concerning the dangers of religious legislation?

K. C. RUSSELL, Chairman Religious Liberty Bureau.