The Health Question in Greater New York by Stephen Nelson Haskell

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 6, 1902

The Health Question in Greater New York

By Stephen Nelson Haskell

FOR many years it has been our practice in city mission work to get families together, either in a hall or in private houses, where instruction can be given in cooking and simple treatments. None were looked upon as ready for church membership until they had discarded tea and coffee and pork, and usually flesh meat of all description. The greatest hindrance we have ever met has been the example and teaching of those who, while professing to have been long in the way of truth, exert an influence against it.

In Greater New York we have not neglected this important phase of the work. In examining some candidates for baptism a few days ago, we found two of the company using pork, and one of them tea. After reading a few texts which say that we should not even touch it, and Isa. 66: 16, 17, where it is stated that the eaters of swine’s flesh, with other abominable things, shall be consumed together at the second coming of Christ, they at once decided that pork must go. But my wife said, “What about the tea?” The woman replied, “A little while ago I purchased half a pound of tea, and when this is gone——” and there she stopped. My wife said that the Scriptures are plain on the subject of tea. “Well, do not read it now,” she replied. But she concluded to part company with tea. People who are truly converted are willing to follow the Bible. Educators who are sound in the faith are needed at the present time.

We have held two cooking classes in the hall on Fifty-ninth Street. The first one, being held in the winter, cost the mission considerable. Sixty-five dollars more than all receipts was expended, besides the heating of the hall, and the lights. The second school was closed a few days ago. We sent to the New England Sanitarium for a demonstrator, paid her wages and her expenses, and the school came out one or two dollars ahead, not reckoning anything for hall rent. We have also had one school of twelve lessons on simple treatments, among the Scandinavians. The educator was trained among our people. Learning of a competent young lady in the West who was not engaged, we sent for her, and expect soon to open another school for instruction in healthful living and the giving of simple treatments.

The New York Tribune reported the lectures of Dr. Geizel when she was here, and has also reported some of the lessons since. The editor of the woman’s department believes in these principles, and is anxious to aid us in any way that is consistent. The public want these principles, and are ready for them. This work does not at present pay in dollars and cents, but it is sowing gospel seed as truly as does the teaching of any other truth. We want educators who can fill the many openings for cottage meetings in different parts of the city.

S. N. HASKELL.