The Work in Savannah by C. B. Stephenson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 23, 1914

The Work in Savannah

By C. B. Stephenson

I HAD the privilege of attending the colporteurs' institute for the colored people held in Savannah, Ga., March 13-23. I spent several days in this institute, and was very much pleased to note the interest taken in the book department by the members of the church. At the close of the institute, thirteen signed the contract for territory. Of these a goodly number will devote their whole time to this work. It seems to me that this is a good beginning. It was demonstrated beyond all doubt that the colored people can make a success of canvassing.

There are thirteen working bands in the church. The city has been divided into districts, and every district has a captain. If I remember correctly, in the aggregate there were three hundred Bible readings given, besides books sold and visits made. Fifty attended church who had been invited by these bands. The whole city is being covered by these workers. It is their intention to visit every home and conduct Bible readings. They seem to have a burden for the people. This plan of work is being introduced in all our churches, and I am sure will result in the addition of members.

The work for the colored people of the South was never on a better basis. It is thoroughly organized, and the territory is being worked systematically.

While the mission school work is not so prominent as it was in certain sections of the field a few years ago, the work as a whole is conducted in a more permanent way. We have not so many mission schools, but we have more churches in our large cities, and church schools in connection with them as a rule.

In the Southeastern Union mission, the colored membership more than doubled during the last biennial period. The tithe during the same time increased $4,083.11 over the previous biennial period. Progress was also made in other unions.

The Oakwood Manual Training School is having its most encouraging year. Workers are being trained to enter the field. Several will be graduated from the academic course. Taking everything into consideration, we feel encouraged because of what has been accomplished.

C. B. STEPHENSON.