The Opening of the School.
By Uriah Smith
We are reminded by the experience of the past few days that important events, at least some that are important to us as a people, are following each other in rapid succession. The Biblical Institute, having held its full time, closed last Sunday evening, with some features, which, as elsewhere noticed, were truly soul-inspiring. The next day at ten A. M., a large company assembled in the capacious hall of the new school building, to dedicate the building to its sacred uses, and open the present term of school with appropriate exercises. The pleasant room, the cheerful assembly, the prosperity of the enterprise which was the occasion of the meeting, and of the cause of which it is to constitute so important a part, all conspired to render it an occasion of thorough good cheer. After singing, reading of one of the good psalms of David, and prayer, the opening address was made by Bro. White. A brief history of the interest, from its very commencement, which has for some years been growing among us, on the subject of education, was given. The importance of this enterprise, its connection with the work of present truth, the responsibilities we are laid under on its account, the dangers to which we are exposed, and the grand results within our reach, if we are faithful to our trust, were set forth in a masterly manner; and his words were listened to with marked attention throughout. Bro. Butler also made brief and appropriate remarks. The exercises were interspersed with singing, both select and general, in which, while the ear was charmed, the heart found utterance for its sincerest sentiments. The donors who have contributed so generously to this important enterprise, the brethren who have labored so faithfully, conscientiously, and skillfully, in erecting the building, the teachers who are here to engage in their holy work, and the students who may come here to fit themselves for the most important spheres of labor which this world presents, were not forgotten. God has graciously supplied the most favorable conditions for progress in this department of the work. The long-needed facilities are provided. It now remains that in the future operation of the school, such a course be taken that his rich blessing may attend. The winter term has opened very encouragingly. Scholars are coming in so that at this writing it is impossible to tell how many will be in attendance. But the present bids fair to be a full term, and one of more than ordinary interest.