Quarterly Statistical Report by H. E. Rogers

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 29, 1914

Quarterly Statistical Report

By H. E. Rogers

North American Division

At the last session of the General Conference, consideration was given to the matter of statistical reports, and it was voted that in the future such reports be prepared quarterly. Certain changes in the report were authorized, and new blanks sent out in conformity therewith. The first returns secured under the new arrangement are those for the quarter ended Sept. 30, 1913. These reports are for the North American Division Conference, and the figures, appearing on the next page, present a splendid showing.

This being the first report secured on this basis, some items were not reported by the secretaries of local conferences, and others were incompletely given, as will be seen by reference to the table. In two cases (British Columbia and Newfoundland) no reports were received, making it necessary to estimate the figures. Many of the secretaries promise more complete returns when the plan of quarterly reporting is more fully in operation.

The last report issued prior to this was for Dec. 31, 1912, nine months ago. The gain indicated, therefore, is for nine months. A study of the table shows a splendid increase in many of the items. Note, for instance, that the increase in the number of churches is forty-nine, the present number being 1,978. The gain in church members is 2,569, the number of church members now being 66,434. A very gratifying feature is the fact that the total number of persons baptized during the three months ended September 30, was 1,807. The increase in the number of ordained ministers is 35, and in ministers, licentiates, and missionary licentiates, 134. The total number of workers of these three classes in the North American Division Conference now stands at 1,486, as against 1,352 nine months ago.

Splendid results are also shown in the matter of funds. Take one item as an illustration: The per capita contributions from the Sabbath schools in this division are one-third greater than they were for the preceding year. And for 1912 they were much higher than they ever were before. Thirty-five additional Sabbath schools have been organized, with 713 more in attendance. The total enrollment now stands at 68,314. The per capita of tithe is also higher than for 1912.

Progress is certainly the one watchword in this cause. Wherever the banner of truth is planted, there it remains, drawing others to its folds.

H. E. ROGERS, Statistical Secretary.