THESE significant words in a recent issue of the English World, "Many professed Non-conformists, when they rise in the world and social standing, leave our chapels for the established church, not always for more interesting sermons or better services, but for a higher class of society," show that human nature is the same both sides of the water. The desire to get into the fashionable church in city and village is apparent enough in this country. It is one explanation of the loss we have sustained in many quarters.
It is not an infrequent occurrence to see those who come into western communities determine the church question in the above spirit. They ask which church has the most wealth and social power, and where will it be most to their material advantage to worship, and make their choice accordingly. This sort of regard for the external selfish benefits of church attendance and connection has been the animating motive of not a few, moving from the East to the West. It is a species of trimming indicative of a purpose to make of religious worship a gain, when persons thus act.
The largest, richest, and most fashionable church may not prove as religiously helpful as one less pretentious, and it is certain that whoever turns his back on the church of his fathers, because humble and weak, will not be spiritually blest. If we would have the world despise the church, let it be seen that men make of it a handmaid to their social ambitions and worldly success.—The Advance.
Social Distinctions in Protestant Churches
By Ezra Tinker
IN our Protestant churches social distinctions are often very marked, and the impoverished and the uncultured are relegated to some distant corner, or treated to a seat in the mission chapel. They are indirectly but effectually informed that they are not wanted, that their presence is distasteful. How many a sexton has been severely reproved because he did not know broadcloth, and with unbecoming courage, seated linsey woolsey and the choicest beaver in the same pew. And how many a pew-owner, holding the most important official positions in the church, has instructed the ushers that his pew was not accessible to the average person, and if by chance such a one has found his way to some cozy sitting, with what looks of displeasure he is informed that his absence is preferable to his presence, that he ought to have known better.
Said a pastor of a small but wealthy church, who had universally preached to crowded congregations in other places: “It is utterly impossible to fill the little edifice, because the average person never comes but three times. The first time he comes he takes a seat in the center of the church, but nobody recognizes him; the second time he sits on the east side, but no one greets him; the third time he goes to the west side, and fares as before. He leaves the church, never to return. In fact,” said the humiliated pastor, “the members do not thank a minister for trying to fill the church with common people.” Is it at all surprising that some of the ablest preachers discoursed in that edifice to a hundred and fifty hearers, and that a genuine conversion in such surroundings is almost unknown?
It is this Pharisaic, lily-fingered, cold, heartless church pride and selfishness that keeps tens of thousands from entering the sanctuary on the Sabbath. They will not attend to be patronized or scorned. But if they could be greeted with genuine Christian warmth, and made to feel that they were heartily welcomed, our congregations would suddenly undergo a marvelous change.—Rev. Ezra Tinker.
Foreseeing Evil
"A PRUDENT man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished." Prov. 27:12.
Sabbath-School Convention.
By Editor
OUR first regular Sabbath-school Convention was deeply interesting, and therefore successful. It was held under the direction of C. H. Jones, president of our State Association, an efficient Sabbath-school worker.
The Convention met Tuesday, April 28, at 4 P. M. The workers from the various schools met to consult in regard to their work, and the hour was well occupied with instructions, questions, and suggestions.
In the evening an address was given by the editor of the SIGNS, on "The Church, the School, and the Home."
On Wednesday morning, prayer-meeting was held as usual at six o'clock. At 9 A. M. the secretary's report, and reports from delegates, were heard. These were followed by an address by Professor Ramsey, on "Preparing and Teaching the Lesson." We expected to hear an address by Professor Grainger also, but he was detained at Healdsburg. The "Question Drawer" was attended to by Elder W. C. White. This was an occasion of profit to officers and teachers, as also a similar exercise in the afternoon.
The afternoon meeting was opened by an address by Elder White on "Sabbath-school Contributions." He showed the propriety of such contributions, and the advisability of the plan adopted by the schools in this Association. This was followed by an excellent address or exercise—both in one—by Mrs. M. K. White, on "How to Teach the Children." It was practical and instructive. This again was followed by a practical illustration of primary-class teaching281by Miss Marian Kleabir. The little folks did credit to their teachers.
The closing address in the evening was by our assistant, "E. J. W.," on "The Teacher's Weapon, and How to Use It." It was full of instruction in every sentence; forcible in its illustrations and Scripture expositions.
Of course this is but an outline of the real proceedings. We could but regret that it was not more largely attended by the representatives of the schools throughout the State. It will greatly raise the standard of Sabbath-school work if such conventions are regularly held and generally attended.
There are now, including two Sunday-schools held by workers in new fields, 44 schools, with a membership of 1,738. Last year there were 30 schools, with a membership of 1,338. Donations for the last quarter, $765, all given to the Australian mission. The average cannot be computed on the membership, as schools have quite recently been opened aggregating about 300 members; and several did not report anything for the mission.
Some doubted the propriety of donating funds raised in our Sabbath-schools to the Australian mission, considering it better to give them to the General Sabbath-school Association to aid in its work. Our people in California, both old and young, feel a deep interest in that mission. This is shown by the large contribution for the last quarter. Our State Association recently gave $200 to the General Association. This may look like too small a sum; but we think it will all come out right. Let those States which did not donate any school contributions to the mission, now give more liberally to the General Association than we are able to, under our present circumstances, and we will try to follow their example in this direction in the future.
We do not believe that it is right to bestow all our contributions upon one object. Let the spirit of benevolence widen out. There are hundreds of children in California who will now watch the work in Australia with an interest which they would not have if they did not feel that they are "a part of the concern." We feel confident that the rich blessing of Heaven will go with that money; and we pray that a like blessing may abide with our Sabbath-schools.
Reverence.
By J. H. Waggoner, J. N. Loughborough, W. M. Healey, J. O. Corliss, E. J. Waggoner, E. R. Jones, Wm. Ings, N. C. McClure, A. T. Jones, G. W. Colcord, W. C. White, M. C. Israel, S. N. Haskell, J. D. Rice, H. A. St. John
At the recent meeting in Oakland, Cal., the subject of reverence came up among the ministers in their consultations. Among other points considered was reverence in the house of God—in worship. Our denomination has grown up under unfavorable circumstances—such as were calculated to interfere with the proprieties of worshiping assemblies. Houses consecrated to the worship of God have been very scarce with us; our meetings have largely been held in school houses or private dwellings, where the influence of associations shut out much of the feeling of reverence which a place consecrated to the worship of God inspires. It may be said that all places are alike; that the blessing of Heaven rests upon true worshipers, no matter where assembled. But we cannot deny our natures; we cannot, if we would, ignore the influence of associations. It is impossible for children to feel the same reverence and solemnity in worship in an assembly at their own firesides, where they daily indulge in their plays, that they will feel in a house consecrated to worship, and which is used for nothing else. And that is true, to a certain extent, of all classes and ages.
At a gathering of all the ministers present at the above meeting, the following words were read from Testimony No. 20:—
"Things that are wrong often transpire in the sacred desk. One minister conversing with another in the desk before the congregation, laughing and appearing to have no burden of the work, or lacking a solemn sense of their sacred calling, dishonors the truth, and brings the sacred down upon the low level of common things. The example tends to remove the fear of God from the people, and to detract from the sacred dignity of the gospel which Christ died to magnify. According to the light that has been given me, it would be pleasing to God for ministers to bow down as soon as they step into the pulpit, and solemnly ask help from God. What impression would that make? There would be a solemnity and awe upon the people. Why, their minister is communing with God; he is committing himself to God before he dares to stand before the people. Solemnity rests down upon the people, and angels of God are brought very near. Ministers should look to God the first thing as they come into the desk, thus saying to all, God is the source of my strength."
These words have been more or less considered by brethren since they were first published, and an effort has been made by some to act fully up to their suggestions. But because there was not sufficient consultation—no general movement made—the course recommended was not adopted. Those who felt somewhat the force of the testimony contented themselves with bowing their heads upon their hands or upon the desk, as they took their places in the pulpit.
But in the consultation referred to herein, it was unanimously decided that this does not meet the requirements of the case, as it fails to properly impress the congregation. It is true that there is not that solemnity in the house of worship, before the services commence, which belongs to the place and to the occasion. Up to the very moment of the minister's rising to give out the opening hymn, we frequently see members of the congregation engaged in conversations in various parts of the house, which are only stilled by the minister's voice as he opens the services. Frequently these conversations are upon subjects which tend to distract the mind, and draw it away from the object of assembling. The first words of the minister fall upon ears altogether unprepared for the important message of the sacred word, and upon hearts unprepared for the solemn worship of the Most High.
It was considered in our consultations that the message of the gospel would prove more effective to reach the hearts of the people, if there was a feeling of reverence and solemnity resting upon the congregation from the entering of the minister into the desk. This can best be produced by the minister bowing before God in silent prayer for a short time, when he takes his place for the service. The congregation will be led to respond by bowing their heads, and asking the blessing of Heaven upon the coming service. And God, whose ear is ever open to the pleadings of his children, will surely bless the service which follows such united petition to his throne. He requires by express word that all things in his worship shall be done decently and in order, and that our assemblies shall be holy convocations.
It was therefore agreed by the ministers present that not only the spirit but the letter of the words quoted from the Testimony be carried out by us. And for reasons herein given we believe that it is impossible to carry out their spirit without conforming to the letter. In every case where the effort has been made it has proved a failure. It was not, and is not, our intention to lay down rules for anybody to follow, nor to pass a resolution with the idea of governing the conduct of any; but it was mutually agreed by all present that we, laborers upon the Pacific Coast, will conform to these words, and strive with all our influence to increase a feeling of reverence in our congregations. And we the more readily agree to this because this practice has proved to be effective in other days and among other people. Those among us who can remember when it was practiced by all the Methodist ministers, can testify that its effect upon assemblies for worship was always good.
And we earnestly pray that God may bless us as a people, and increase all our graces, and prepare us for the coming of his Son for the redemption of the purchase of his precious blood.
J. H. WAGGONER, J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH,
W. M. HEALEY, J. O. CORLISS,
E. J. WAGGONER, E. R. JONES,
WM. INGS, N. C. MCCLURE,
A. T. JONES, G. W. COLCORD
W. C. WHITE, M. C. ISRAEL,
S. N. HASKELL, J. D. RICE.
H. A. ST. JOHN,
Oakland, Cal., May 1, 1885.
Meetings in Healdsburg.
By Editor
THE meetings commenced the evening of April 16, as appointed. The ministers present, who took part in the preaching exercises, were Elders Loughborough, Corliss, Healey, Mrs. E. G. White, Elder Haskell, who arrived Monday evening, and the editor of the SIGNS.
The school recitations were continued each day until the close. This was not exactly as we expected, but was considered best under the circumstances. Of course there was not all accomplished in the meetings which seemed desirable. The preaching, however, was well received, and seemed to have good effect.
The hours for recitations were varied somewhat to accommodate the meetings, and studies were to some extent waived to give place to a meeting in the interest of the school. This was an interesting occasion. The meeting was spirited; the reports were favorable, and all felt encouraged. The financial report was more favorable than was expected, and speaks exceedingly well for the management of the school.
The health of the students was an item of no small interest. It is not unusual to see the health of students fail at college, provided that proper attention is given to study. Many "fond parents" think it would be a terrible infliction to make their children do some work at school. But they must have manual exercise of some kind, and orderly exercise in pleasant labor is much better than the violent exercise of ball-playing or boat-rowing. The students at Healdsburg College have enjoyed their labor, and many of them testified that their health improved while at the school. Of all the scholars present only two said their health was not as good as when they first went there. We asked one the reason, and he said he went swimming, took a severe cold, and became sick! Young ladies said, before they went there they did not like to do housework, but now they did like it. This is no small point gained to any household, to have the girls learn to do housework right, and love to do it. We think one reason why all the scholars love the work is that it is all done on time and in exact order. However much people may be inclined to be negligent and disorderly, we firmly believe that most people really love order rather than confusion; and if well trained to it they love to preserve it rather than to be disorderly.
Our brethren lately from the East were enraptured with the situation. As one said, looking out from North College Hall, "No picture can equal it." The plan adopted in this "Students' Home" has proved very successful. Our experience ought to be worth something to the work, and each new institution planted by us should be better than those preceding. From the first movement toward starting a school in California the blessing of Heaven has seemed to attend every step. And nothing has been attended with better results than our boarding or house system at Healdsburg.
The classes in Bible study highly appreciate the instruction given the past year. The College is in every way proving a great blessing, not only to individuals and to families, but to the California Conference, and to the cause at large.
Pacific S. D. A. Publishing Association.
By C. H. Jones
THE past year has been one of marked prosperity for this Association, notwithstanding the great depression in business throughout our country, and the general cry of "hard times."
According to the treasurer's report, the amount of business done during the past year was $139,321.80, an increase over the previous year of $28,462.97. The actual net profits of the Association from April 1, 1884, to April 1, 1885, as shown by the balance sheet, are $13,532.94, an increase of more than $8,500 over any previous year.
In accordance with the recommendation of the stockholders, and by vote of the directors at the meeting held one year ago, quite extensive improvements have been made during the past year, which have greatly added to our facilities. Two lots, each 50x100 feet, adjoining the property of the Association on the west, have been purchased, and a building erected, 24x34 feet, three stories high. On the first floor of this building there is a stable, carriage house, and paper warehouse; the second floor contains a carpenter shop and hay loft; the third floor is used by the California Conference as a tent loft. Above this are two large water tanks, one of 5,000 and the other 9,000 gallons capacity. The old stereotype foundry, which was formerly a one-story building, 14x26 feet, has been enlarged and raised, making a building 26x28 feet, two stories high, with282the stereotype foundry in the first story, and editorial and proof-reading rooms in the second story. By the side of this an artesian well over 400 feet deep has been sunk and supplied with a good deep well pump. A new four-roller, two revolution Campbell cylinder press has been purchased, besides other machinery for our bindery and stereotype foundry. We now have eight presses in constant operation, running night and day, much of the time.
The improvements above referred to, including the two lots, buildings, machinery, etc., have cost about $15,000, and have all been paid for in cash. Besides this the Association has taken up all of the bonds which had been issued, amounting to $10,500, thus leaving the entire property free from all incumbrances; and in doing this our interest-bearing debt has been increased but very little.
The institution has the confidence of the public, as well as of our brethren and sisters. Quite a number have heeded the resolution passed last year, and have come forward and placed their money here without interest, feeling that it is safer here than in a bank, and it will be doing some good.
Our denominational work has largely increased during the past year. As a comparison we would say that the subscription list of the SIGNS, alone, has increased more during the past year than it did during the first nine years of its existence, and almost double what it did the year before. We can say about the same in regard to our denominational books. And still the good work goes on, and we are looking for a still larger increase during the coming year. Plans have already been laid that will bring to this office a large amount of work.
We now have in process of publication, to be issued within a few weeks, the Testimonies from No. 1-30, inclusive. These are being gotten up in accordance with the vote taken at our last General Conference, and will be bound in four volumes of about six or seven hundred pages each. This will place them in permanent form, and they will be a valuable addition to every Seventh-day Adventist library. We do not expect to make much money on these publications, as the price will be placed very near the cost of publication; but we feel that the books are needed, and ought to be published.
In addition to this we are now getting up a third edition of "Great Controversy, Vol. 4." The first two editions, of about nine thousand copies, have nearly all been sold, and there is still such a demand for this book that we have decided to get it up in larger and finer style and have it well illustrated. We believe that it contains just what the people need at the present time, and our leading brethren from whom we have heard are enthusiastic over the plan. The illustrations are all being made for this special work.
Now, if we go on with these books, as contemplated, it will call for an investment of at least $10,000, and it will be some time before there will be any return. We would therefore call the attention of our brethren and sisters to the third and fourth resolutions adopted by the stockholders at the last annual meeting, as recorded in another part of this paper, and ask them to act upon them.
According to the vote taken at our last General Conference, and to meet a pressing demand, it is expected that a new monthly paper will soon be issued from this office to counteract the influence of the Christian Statesman, and defend the rights of American citizens. The plans for this are not yet fully matured, but will be announced in due time.
Other plans might be mentioned, but this is sufficient to show that we are making preparations for active work during the coming year. And now we want to secure the active co-operation of all our brethren and sisters, both East and West, in trying to spread abroad a knowledge of God's truth.
As we look over the work of the past year we feel that we have every reason to "thank God and take courage."
C. H. JONES.
College Notes.
By Ellet Joseph Waggoner
ON Monday, April 20, a most interesting meeting in the interest of the school was held in the College chapel. Since it was not the regular stockholders' meeting, the financial report was only approximate, but all were surprised at the good showing. Of this, however, we shall speak more particularly next week, when we shall have the report of the stockholders' meeting. That which contributed most to the interest of the meeting, and of which we wish to speak, is the experiences that were given by some of the students. Remarks being in order, after the teachers had spoken concerning the work of the last term, and the prospects for the future, one young man arose and said that he owed a debt of gratitude to the College, which he could never repay. He knew that the College did not advertise to be a sanitarium, yet it had been such to him, during his two years' attendance. He said that his health was so poor when he entered that he should have been obliged to leave in a short time, if it had not been for the regular hours, and the physical exercise in the industrial department.
One who has attended during the last school year, spoke very feelingly of the pleasant associations formed, and the precious religious privileges he had enjoyed while trying to gain knowledge.
Another said that he had gained both spiritually and intellectually. The North College Hall had been to him a home, and he felt that it would be a pleasure for him to work for the school.
One young man said that he was in very poor health when he left home last fall, and that his friends had tried to discourage him. Now his health is good, his mind stronger, and his hope bright.
Still another, who has spent two winters at the College, and who has already done some good work in the missionary field, said that if he has any success in life, the founders of the College will receive a large portion of the reward.
One young lady said that before she came to the College she had never done any work, did not know how, and did not want to. Now, besides what she had gained mentally, she had learned much about work, and what is more, had learned to like it.
Others spoke to the same effect. These utterances were spontaneous, and none who heard them could doubt their sincerity. If all the patrons of the College, and all who should be patrons, could have heard them, we are confident that the present accommodations would not be sufficient for half of those who would attend next term.
The industrial system of education is no longer an experiment so far as Healdsburg College is concerned. It is a decided success. There are many who think it would be a good thing if it could be carried out; but in this case the students take hold heartily to carry it out. It would do one good to see the pride which, with very rare exceptions, the students take in the College, and in preserving a neat and orderly condition about the premises. The visitors present at the meeting were pleased at the general appearance of things; but no one who has not been present, can have any idea of the amount of work that has been done by the students.
It was noticeable that nearly all of the students who spoke at the meeting, mentioned the fact that their health had improved. One of the brethren who has been a devoted friend of the school, and who was instrumental in securing the attendance of several students last fall, said that at first sight it was difficult for him to recognize some of them, because of their improved physical condition. This is an item upon which too much stress cannot be laid. There are many schools where students may rapidly gain knowledge from books, but there are few schools where they can at the same time steadily improve in health, and also learn how to preserve the health which they have gained. Healdsburg College is one of these, and the only one with which we are acquainted.
We would not forget to mention the good feeling that has uniformly prevailed among the students. We believe that it would be a rare thing to find so many young people of different tastes and habits, brought together in one family without more or less discord. The fact that there was perfect harmony was not because those present were naturally better than others, but because, with few exceptions, all were striving to live up to a high Christian principle. Much may also be credited to the admirable tact and good management of those having charge of the 'Students' Home.' No family of six was ever better regulated than this one of sixty.
No one can fail to see the hand of God in the prosperity that has attended the Healdsburg College, and we know that if with humble hearts we suitably acknowledge his blessings, it will be manifested in a more marked degree in the future.
E. J. W.
Peace and Papal Power
By Editor
A NEW newspaper, called Peace, has been established in Rome, the object of which is to prove that Europe will have no peace until Rome is restored to the pope, and a nucleus of temporal power formed; that this would promote the interests and insure the stability of the governments, and that the pontiff would be freer to attend to religious matters. It seems to occupy the same relation to Catholicism in the Old World that the Christian Statesman does to a so-called Protestantism in the New. Both are working for the same general result.
Alcohol Is King.
By Editor
It used to be said that "Cotton is king;" and its rule was somewhat despotic, as its right to reign was almost undisputed. In the Exposition at New Orleans it is prominently declared that "Corn is king." We have been somewhat perplexed to decide whether the crown belongs to alcohol or tobacco. Both are domineering and arrogant, but we think for the present alcohol has it. At the Exposition in New Orleans the Woman's Christian Temperance Union had a stand where one could obtain a drink of water, free. They did not ask to sell it. And any one who has ever threaded his way through a maze of tens of acres of exhibition will judge how thankful the wanderer was to come to a fountain of cold water—"pure and free." But now comes the news that King Alcohol arose in his might and declared that cold water was an interloper, a usurper, and must leave the dominion. He had paid for the privilege of being there, and he would brook no rival. So the mandate went forth; water was banished from the Exposition.
The Exposition is a great, a grand affair. Probably the people of the United States do not regret the money which the Government gave to it, but many of them will protest against another like sum being paid for any such purpose, if they are to be deprived of the pleasure of drinking cold water on the premises.
We are beginning to wonder if the liquor-sellers will not soon claim that their licenses give them the sole right to dispense drinks in our towns and cities, and try to deprive us of the privilege of drinking water at all! It is no great stretch of the imagination to suppose it. For who would have thought that when certain parties purchased the right—beg pardon, the privilege—to sell beer on the Exposition grounds, they would claim with it the right to deny all persons the privilege of drinking cold water within the gates? And who would have thought that the managers would comply with their exactions and banish cold water from the Exposition? There are thousands who would hesitate to spend a hot day in those buildings knowing that the privilege to take a drink of water therein was denied them. We believe the management has acted unwisely and unjustly, and we hope a protest, long and loud, may go up against their action.
The Missionary.
State Quarterly Meeting.
ACCORDING to appointment the State quarterly meeting of the California Tract Society was held Sunday, April 26, 1885. The meeting was called to order by the president, Elder S. N. Haskell. Prayer by Elder Wm. Ings. The reading of the minutes of the last session was waived, and the report of labor for quarter ending March 31, read:—
REPORT FOR QUARTER ENDING MARCH 31, 1885.
In the reading as each item was compared with that of the preceding quarter, the increase in the amount of work done was made very perceptible. Of the 930 members in the State, 54 were added during the last quarter. The increase in the number of reports returned was 131. The visits made exceeded those of last quarter by 508; and the number of letters written, which was 3,000, by 1,475. The number of subscribers obtained for the various periodicals was 476, or 278 more than was last reported. The increase in the amount of reading matter distributed was 866,278 pages; and in the periodicals circulated, 66,150.
This report is far more complete than that of any previous quarter; in the amount of work done there has been a marked increase in every respect. Although the cash receipts last quarter were unusually large they are exceeded in this report by $110.02, the whole amount received being $1,781.02. Elder Haskell spoke of the encouraging nature of the report. By relating some incidents he showed how the present system of missionary work originated, and gave some statistics of its early history, which forcibly brought to mind the rapid growth of the work.
By a comparison of previous reports it will be seen that for the last five years there has been a growing interest in the tract and missionary work in California. There have been some quarters when the increase was not so marked as others, but from quarter to quarter the reports have shown that the missionary spirit is growing. The amount of work done this quarter is equal to that of whole years during the earlier period of its organization. Another encouraging feature is that there is an interest taken in every enterprise in connection with the missionary work.
Elder Ings, who has had the general oversight of the distributor work throughout the State, reported that 160 distributors are now in use. The city mission owns seventy-three, thirty-eight of which have been placed on vessels at the port of San Francisco. The remaining eighty-seven are owned and supported by local societies and individuals. The price of the distributor is $1.50, and the estimated cost of filling once a week for a year is about $12.00. In case the SIGNS SUPPLEMENT is used instead of the SIGNS the cost will be lessened about one-half. Many of the distributors are filled daily, others twice a week, while those in more remote districts are filled but once a week. The entire number on the coast is 275. Averaging these distributors to be filled twice a week, which would be a low estimate considering the number that are filled daily, the aggregate cost of the distributors in this Conference would be $3,840, and on the Pacific Coast $6,600. When we consider that this work is performed by individuals and local societies, while at the same time the general interest of the missionary work is increasing, there is no marvel that the blessing of God attends the efforts of the people on the Pacific Coast.
Many incidents of thrilling interest were given, showing how the Lord has opened the way for the distributors to be placed in railroad depots, on board the steamers, and in hotels and factories. Several who have had frequent opportunity to notice the distributors, reported some of the good that is being accomplished by them. Elder Loughborough, who has had occasion to note the work of the distributors on board a steamer, stated that the papers and tracts are read with the greatest interest by the officers of the ship as well as by the passengers. He also noticed the care with which the reading was handled; as the distributors contained loaning matter only, all felt under obligations to replace it.
Elder McClure reported that as the result of distributor work in Arcata they have learned of one man in that vicinity who is keeping the Sabbath; and it was stated by Elder Ings that as the direct result of this work three families in Milwaukee, Oregon, have embraced the truth. At the Oakland pier, as a brother was filling the distributor, a young man requested the privilege of taking an assortment of the tracts and papers, as he said that he was soon to start for England, and such reading could not be found there. Upon another occasion a lady asked for a copy of the SIGNS; when given to her she replied that she had read that number; a second copy which was offered her, she had also read; the third was accepted. Many such incidents were cited, showing the thoroughness with which some are investigating.
Three Rivulet Societies have lately been organized in this State, at Oakland, San Francisco, and Healdsburg. Reports from different ones who have been connected with this work showed that an interest in the missionary work is being awakened among the children.
The following Committee on Resolutions was appointed by the chair: Elders J. N. Loughborough, W. C. White, and William Ings.
A second meeting was called at 2:30 P. M. After the reading of the minutes, the following resolutions were presented:—
1. WHEREAS, We have seen the hand of God in opening the way for the distributors to be placed in depots, hotels, restaurants, employment offices, &c., and knowing that much good has been accomplished by the means of placing our publications in the hands of the people, and as there are many places yet to be supplied; therefore
Resolved, That we recommend that this branch of the work be extended as fast as means can be obtained to carry this work forward in our large cities, and that we invite those having means to donate sufficient for the support of one or more of these distributors. All contributions can be forwarded to the State secretary, Anna L. Ingels, Pacific Press, Oakland, Cal.
2. WHEREAS, The Spirit of God has spoken in the matter of establishing missions in our large cities, and whereas we have seen good results from the work in San Francisco and Los Angeles; therefore
Resolved, That it is the sense of the body that the city work should be extended, and that we recommend that283Sacramento be entered as soon as means can be secured, and suitable persons found to carry forward the work there.
3. WHEREAS, Experience has demonstrated the utility of the distributors as a means of circulating publications on present truth, and whereas papers are more freely taken than tracts; therefore
Resolved, That we approve of the four-page semi-monthly SIGNS SUPPLEMENT, and recommend its use in connection with the SIGNS and tracts in our ship and city missions, and in distributors elsewhere.
4. WHEREAS, The public libraries of our State furnish us an excellent opening for reaching many readers; therefore
Resolved, That we will add to our volumes for such libraries such works as Vol. 4, "The Atonement," and the new edition of "Man's Nature and Destiny."
5. WHEREAS, There are many persons whose interest might be secured by canvassers for such books as "Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation," and Vol. 4 of "The Great Controversy," who would not be reached by any other means; therefore
Resolved, That we deem it to be our duty to make a special canvass for these works during the present season.
6. WHEREAS, There are many sisters who are meeting with good success in canvassing for SIGNS and Sunshine in the cities; therefore
Resolved, That we encourage our sisters to engage in this branch of the work in those cities where the tents are to be pitched.
7. Resolved, That we hold a missionary school for three or four weeks, as soon as possible after this meeting, where instruction will be given and a practical experience can be gained, in city canvassing, holding Bible readings, and in missionary correspondence.
8. Resolved, That we recommend that Bible readings be carried on in connection with the city missions.
9. Resolved, That we approve of the plan of organizing rivulet missionary societies, and we recommend the formation of such societies, whenever practicable, among the youth and children of our respective churches.
These resolutions were acted upon separately, and unanimously adopted.
As Elder M. C. Israel is soon to sail for Australia, his resignation as director of districts Nos. 3 and 4, was presented. At a subsequent meeting of the directors, Elder A. T. Jones was appointed to fill this vacancy.
A map of the world was presented, showing the relation that Australia and the surrounding islands sustain to other parts of the civilized world. The extent of the influence of our established missions was represented by this map, and it was seen that Australia and the adjoining islands are the only civilized portions of the earth where the influence of our missions is not felt. Therefore, when the truth shall have become established in Australia, and the influence be felt in New Zealand, the Island of Tasmania, and on the coast of India, where there are large settlements of English people, then the truth will have encircled the civilized world.
The meeting adjourned sine die.
S. N. HASKELL, Pres.
ANNA L. INGELS, Sec'y.