THE BIBLICAL INSTITUTE IN OAKLAND, CAL.
By Uriah Smith
This Institute closed on the evening of April 17. The whole number of members composing the class was forty-seven. Of these, eight were prevented by various circumstances from attending regularly, leaving a steady attendance of thirty-nine. The amount of matter presented to the class was equal to sixty-four ordinary lectures. Some of the most important subjects were presented by Bro. White, who attended and took part in the work as other duties would permit. The subjects set forth were earnestly studied by the class, who gave evidence that they had come to work, and to make the most of the present opportunity; and the interest continued unflagging to the close. The last two days three sessions were held each day, during which the time was largely occupied by Bro. and Sr. White in giving instruction to the class of a practical nature, touching the best methods of study and labor, and the course to be pursued by those who labor in public or private in the sacred cause of present truth. This was most timely, and was highly appreciated by the class. The happy close of the exercises on the evening of the 17th, will be ever remembered as a fitting termination of this pleasant occasion. After a brief ordination discourse by Bro. White, Brn. J. L. Wood and John Judson were solemnly set apart to the work of the gospel ministry, Brn. White, Loughborough, and Waggoner officiating. Prayer by Bro. Waggoner, charge by Bro. White. Licenses were also granted to six others, and still four others received a limited license to go out as tract distributers and to engage in religious visiting, Bible reading, &c., as opportunities may offer. These brethren design to give themselves to the work, and we see no reason why they may not generally become efficient workmen in the cause. This is a good showing for the progress of this work in California. Some expressed gratitude for new light received on points not before clearly understood; while in the number in attendance, and in the general satisfaction expressed, the expectations of all were more than met. In the benefits already apparent, and the good results which bid fair to follow, the judgment of Bro. White in calling for this Institute in California at this time, is fully vindicated. U. S.