“Be patient. Keep sweet. Do not fret or worry. Do your best and leave results with God. Believe firmly in God, in the fulfillment of his purposes, and in the march of his providences. God’s laws are immutable. Work with undeviating regularity. Walk in fellowship with God, and every year you will be a stronger, better, happier, and sweeter man. Do not mar your peace or power by needless worry. Live by faith in the Son of God, who loves you and gave himself for you. On some bright tomorrow you will come to anchor under a heaven of sapphire, in a harbor of calm, with chimes ringing their welcome from the spires that sentinel the city of God, while from the battlements millions will shout, ‘Well done!’”
NOTICES AND APPOINTMENTS
A Good Response
The past few weeks have been busy ones in the periodical department of the Pacific Press. Additional clerks were required to help handle the 17,605 new subscriptions to the Signs of the Times received since the missionary campaign started. And still they come. Not in years has the Signs list been so large as now—nearly 40,000.
The response to the “Two copies per member” suggestion of the North American Division Conference came from every quarter. Figures are sometimes tiresome, but we risk submitting the following, which show the number of subscriptions from each union conference up to November 24:—
Lake Union Conference .......... 3,128
Pacific Union Conference ...... 2,727
Columbia Union Conference ...... 2,525
Central Union Conference ........ 1,872
North Pacific Union Conference . 1,869
Northern Union Conference ...... 1,497
Southwestern Union Conference... 1,101
Atlantic Union Conference ...... 1,054
Southeastern Union Conference... 876
Southern Union Conference ...... 417
Canadian Union Conference ...... 296
Western Canadian Union Conf..... 243
Total ......................... 17,605
Nor do these figures tell the whole story. Results infinitely more important are known of God. Through reading the Signs, hearts have been subdued, minds influenced, and scores have been won to the truth. For our encouragement, no doubt, the Master frequently permits us to learn of such cases.
One of our ministers says: “At present I am using ten copies of the Signs every week, but I could use a great many more in house-to-house work, which I follow up with Bible studies. Right now especially I believe it is very important that we get these papers into as many homes as possible.”
Obituaries
Elder Adam George Schlotthauer
At the Loma Linda Sanitarium, Oct. 30, 1914, Elder Schlotthauer fell asleep in Jesus, being 62 years, 3 months, and 24 days old at the time of his death. He was married to Maria Katherine Schmidt in 1870, and to them were born seven sons and three daughters, all of whom survive to mourn their loss. One brother, Peter Schlotthauer, of Homestead, Okla., is also numbered among the mourners. Elder Schlotthauer was a native of Russia. He came to America in 1875, settling in the State of Kansas. In 1889, with his family, he moved to the State of Washington. Later they moved to California, where he resided at the time of his death. He was converted in early youth. In 1886 he accepted the third angel's message under the labors of Elders H. Schultz and L. R. Conradi. In 1893 he was invited by the Upper Columbia Conference to assist Elder Haffner in German ministerial work; in 1897 he received ministerial license from that conference, and in 1900 was ordained to the ministry. His health had been failing for more than a year, when, on October 4, he underwent an operation for cancer of the stomach. The disease had advanced too far, and Oct. 30, 1914, he succumbed. The funeral service was held at Visalia, Cal., from the Seventh-day Adventist church. German believers from different parts of the conference were present, among whom were some who had accepted the truth through the labors of the deceased. The funeral service was conducted by the writer, Elder H. C. Basney assisting. Our fellow laborer fell asleep confident of being awakened to immortality when the Life-giver comes.
B. E. Beddoe.
ALEXANDER.—Lurinda S. Webster was born in Chester, Ohio, July 16, 1841, and died Nov. 5, 1914. She was married to R. Riley Alexander, Oct. 25, 1863. During all her married life she lived at Fullertown, Ohio, only a few miles from the place of her birth. About twenty years ago Sister Alexander united with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, of which she was a faithful member at the time of her death. She is survived by a son and his family, one brother, and two sisters, but they sorrow not as those who have no hope.
O. A. Wolcott.
FISHER.—Mrs. Ethel Fisher died at the home of her parents, near Acton, Ind., Nov. 4, 1914. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Jones, and was united in marriage with Jacob Fisher in 1909. The deceased was a faithful member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church at Rocklane, Ind., from early youth until her death. She bore her long sickness with patience, and often spoke of the assurance she felt that when the Life-giver comes she would have a home in the earth made new.
T. F. Hubbard.22
FAIRBANKS.—Mrs. Martha Fairbanks, a native of Sweden, departed this life on Oct. 31, 1914, aged 60 years. The deceased made her home in San Diego, Cal., for some years. She was a consistent Christian. Her husband and an invalid son hope to meet her in the resurrection morning.
W. M. Healey.
GARVIN.—Mrs. Edith L. Hanson Garvin, aged 41 years, after years of illness and suffering, fell asleep in Jesus, Oct. 13, 1914, at her home in Paradise Valley, National City, Cal. Her husband, Dr. W. N. Garvin, and their three daughters wait for the reunion when the Life-giver comes for his own.
W. M. Healey.
COLE.—Francis E. Cole was born in New York State, May 9, 1851. In 1871 he was united in marriage with Miss Anna Corey, with whom he lived for forty-three years. He accepted the third angel's message fourteen years ago. He fell asleep on Nov. 9, 1914. His wife and seven children are left to mourn. Interment took place in the Bethel (Wis.) cemetery.
Louis Drews.
SPENCER.—Louisa J. Compton Spencer, wife of John A. Spencer, died in LaGrange, Ohio, Aug. 29, 1914, aged 72 years. She was a Christian all her life, and was led to accept present truth in 1884, under the ministry of Elder J. Sisley. With her husband she united with the Seventh-day Adventist Church at that time, and their constant efforts for the advancement of the cause of truth were richly blessed.
John A. Spencer.
EVEY.—Lunettie D. Anderson was born in North Shade Township, Gratiot Co., Mich., Sept. 5, 1858. She was a daughter of Cladney B. and Sarah A. Anderson. She was united in marriage to Amos W. Evey in 1873, and died at her home in Carson City, Mich., Oct. 23, 1914, after an illness of nine days. Her husband and one son are left to mourn. Sister Evey was a member of the Carson City church for many years, and died with a bright hope of a part in the first resurrection. Words of comfort were spoken by the writer from Matt. 19:8.
J. M. Hoyt.
PETERSON.—Johannah M. Jensen was born Dec. 3, 1818, in Jutland, Denmark, and died at the home of her son, in College View, Nebr., Oct. 17, 1914. Her husband was Nels C. Peterson. Of their six children three are left to mourn. The family came to America in 1863, and settled near Fremont, Nebr., in June of that year. The deceased accepted present truth about forty years ago as a result of the labors of Elder J. F. Hansen. From that time until her death she was an earnest Christian. She was a faithful and devoted mother, loved by all who knew her.
J. S. Hart.
FARMAN.—Lavina Stanhope Farman, wife of Elder H. J. Farman, died in Peacham, Vt., Nov. 5, 1914. Brother and Sister Farman were married in 1878, and accepted the Sabbath truth together in 1884. They spent some years in the Maritime Provinces and in Newfoundland, later going South, and finally to Jamaica. Our sister suffered intensely during her long illness, but she fell asleep trusting in her Saviour. The writer conducted the funeral service in the schoolhouse at Richford Center, Vt., speaking words of comfort to the many relatives and members of the family who were present.
F. W. Stray.
STROUP.—Homer Stroup was born Nov. 3, 1833, in Greene County, Pennsylvania, where he lived until 1856. At that time the family moved to Medina County, Ohio, where the deceased made his home until his death, which occurred Nov. 7, 1914. In 1866 Brother Stroup was married to Maria Marsh. Two sons were born to this union, and, with the wife and mother, two brothers, and a sister, are left to mourn. For many years our brother was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church at Spencer, Ohio. The writer officiated at the funeral service by request, speaking words of comfort from Isa. 64:6.
D. E. Lindsey.
LANE.—Josef Lane, aged 10 months, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Lane, was suddenly taken away to the “land of the enemy.” We are comforted by the hope of the resurrection.
W. M. Healey.
FORBES.—Christina Forbes was born in Perthshire, Scotland, Oct. 15, 1824, and died in San Francisco, Cal., Nov. 6, 1914. She came to this country in 1866, and spent most of the remainder of her life in San Francisco. For a number of years she was an inmate of the Old Ladies’ University Mound Home. Sister Forbes was a consistent Christian, and for twenty-six years a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her faith was firmly established, and she fell asleep in the bright hope of meeting Jesus at his second coming. Words of comfort were spoken by the writer.
Andrew Brodsen.
GAMBLE.—Harriet L. Gamble was born in Ohio in 1842, and died at her home, near Rhea, Dewey Co., Okla., Nov. 14, 1914. She was married to L. L. Gamble, in Illinois, in the year 1863. Five children were born to them, two of whom are living, a son and a daughter. The family moved to Iowa in 1881, and while living there accepted present truth through the efforts of Elders A. P. Heacock and Judson Washburn, at Clarinda. About twenty years ago Brother and Sister Gamble moved to Oklahoma, and united with the Seventh-day Adventist Church at Osceola; but when that church was disorganized a few years ago, they were left alone. The deceased was a faithful believer in this message, and did all she could for its advancement. The writer spoke words of comfort to the bereaved husband and children.
P. L. Hoen.
WARNE.—John William Warne was born June 26, 1835, and died May 29, 1914. He was married to Mary Ann Harrison on Oct. 31, 1871. Nine years later his wife accepted present truth, and soon afterward he followed her example. They were baptized and received into church fellowship by Elder J. H. Durland on April 20, 1884. From that time until the day of his death, Brother Warne was a faithful member of the Southampton Seventh-day Adventist Church. For a number of years he was engaged in the periodical work; and when failing health made it necessary for him to cease active work, his companion undertook to carry it on, and is still serving faithfully. Brother Warne was loved and respected by all who knew him. His hope in the soon coming of Jesus was bright, and to the last he prayed that he might be kept faithful. The funeral service was conducted by Elder W. J. Fitzgerald, and our brother rests in the cemetery near Shirley, Southampton, England.
F. A. Spearing.
YOUNG.—Talley Russell Young was born near Woolson, Jefferson Co., Iowa, July 8, 1876, and died at his home, in Richland, Iowa, Oct. 22, 1914. Talley grew to manhood in the vicinity of Richland. He attended school at Battle Creek, Mich., also at College View, Nebr. At the latter place he became acquainted with Miss Effie Reno, with whom he was united in marriage May 20, 1903. She, with three children, survives him. After his marriage, Talley settled on the old home farm, where his neighbors trusted him as a man of his word, honorable in deal; and the poor and afflicted knew that in Talley Young they had a friend. This, however, could have afforded us little comfort in this sad hour had it not been for the fact that while I was with my son in his last moments, he gave me the precious assurance that he accepted his Saviour. This has sweetened the bitter waters of Marah, and we rejoice in the hope that we, if faithful, shall soon meet him at the first resurrection. All his immediate family except his sister Rosetta were present at the funeral. About five hundred friends and neighbors had the privilege of hearing the words of truth and comfort based on Job 14:14 and 1 Thess. 4:13-18. The services were conducted by Elder V. B. Watts, assisted by Rev. James A. Wilson, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Mrs. S. A. V. Young.
RUGGLES.—Motley Snyder, second son of Guy Rodney Ruggles, was accidentally shot at his home, near Sunbury, Pa., Nov. 14, 1914, and died two days later, aged 19 years, 5 months, and 7 days. He sleeps in Jesus.
J. R. R.
MOORE.—Almon E. Moore was born in Chester, Eaton Co., Mich., Oct. 23, 1871, and was accidentally drowned near San Diego, Cal., Nov. 22, 1914. His body was not even recovered. Mr. Moore was reared in the present truth, and was baptized at College Place, Wash., in 1892, uniting with the church at Santa Ana, Cal. He spent several years in the canvassing field, but finally drifted away from God. In 1893 he was united in marriage with Miss Myrtle Yarnell. His death is mourned by his wife, two children, five brothers, and five sisters.
Wallace D. Moore.
CAVENDER.—Joseph William Cavender was born Oct. 19, 1862, and died Nov. 5, 1914. His birthplace was Auglaize County, Ohio, but in 1887 the family moved to Logan County, settling in Lakeview. On April 7, 1907, the deceased was united in marriage with Mrs. Viola Houchins. In the spring of 1914 the light of present truth came to them, and our brother fell asleep of good courage in the Lord. Of those left to mourn are his wife, three stepdaughters, two brothers, and four sisters. The funeral services were conducted by Elder E. J. Van Horn, assisted by the pastors of the United Brethren and Methodist Churches.
PETERSEN.—John H. Petersen was born in Longland, Denmark, in 1838, and died at his home near Green Bay, Wis., Oct. 22, 1914. He came to this country in 1858. After spending some years in sailing on the Great Lakes, he was married, and settled on a farm, where he lived until his death. A companion, five sons, and three daughters are left to mourn. In 1871 father accepted present truth under the labors of Elders J. G. Matteson and O. A. Olsen, and became a charter member of the Green Bay Seventh-day Adventist Church, of which he remained a faithful member until the end of his life. The family altar was established and maintained from his earliest experience in the third angel’s message. His children were reared in the fear of God, and are either actively engaged in gospel work or preparing for service. Father died in the hope of a part in the first resurrection. Words of comfort were spoken by Prof. C. A. Russell.
F. F. Petersen.
The Missions Campaign
By T. E. BOWEN
HERE is a letter from New Jersey, written by a sister past eighty years of age:—
“I thank the dear Lord that I have been able to gather $10.25. I have not been able to go out much, so I sent the papers and wrote letters. I had only ten papers. Two I did not get anything for, but the Lord blessed with the rest, and I praise his holy name.”
The secretary who received this letter, adds, “If some of us who are better able to get out had some of her spirit, I think perhaps there would be more money coming into the Lord’s treasury.”
The London (Ontario) church has reached a ten-dollar average for every member—$300, thirty members.
We have now turned our 700,000 corner in papers used, as on December 4 the record stood 709,433.
No conference was added to the honor roll during the past week.
Prayer, the week of prayer, devoted consecration to God, and work for missions with the Ingathering REVIEW form a combination that will not fail in bringing Heaven’s choicest blessings into every heart. T. E. BOWEN.
The “Review” Extras
By D. W. Reavis
THE two REVIEW Extras, the War Extra and the Eastern Question Extra, can be promptly secured at 50 cents a hundred, or $4 a thousand. One and a half million copies of the War Extra have been circulated, and over a million copies of the Eastern Question Extra were ordered between November 9 and December 4. Orders are still pouring in from all parts of the United States.
Both of these Extras contain vital messages for this special time, and will continue to be up-to-date material of the greatest importance. They cannot become back numbers and out of date until the end of time, because their messages apply to all nations, and cover all time from the present until the Lord comes.
These two special issues should be put out together, for the first Extra paves the way for the second, and the second completes the interpretation of the first, and combines in a most convincing way—and at this most opportune time—the advent and Sabbath messages.
It imparts a new inspiration and creates a stronger faith to see and actually to feel the quick and strong response of our people in the circulation of these timely, message-filled Extras, and to note the fact that they are thinking of these in large numbers, as the following statement taken from one of many similar letters sent to the REVIEW almost daily, will show:—
“The packages containing copies of the REVIEW AND HERALD Extra are at hand. These issues certainly deserve wide distribution, and I trust the good people may call on you for 5,000,000 copies.”
D. W. REAVIS.
Nurses’ Training School
There is still an opening for several students in the first year of the nurses’ course at the Wabash Valley Sanitarium. Applications should be made to C. E. Garnsey, Superintendent Training School, Wabash Valley Sanitarium, La Fayette, Ind.
Position Wanted Sabbath Keeper
WANTED.—A position where I can keep the Sabbath. Experienced in gas, gasoline, and steam engines, in firing boilers, and pipe fitting. Have managed for one man for eight years. For further information, write to Fred Solomon, Box 111, Clark, Ohio.
Requests for Prayer
A SISTER, writing from Indiana, desires prayer for her husband, who has given up the truth.
“Please pray earnestly for the conversion of my unbelieving wife,” writes a brother from California.
An aged sister in Minnesota, whose eyesight is fast failing, begs our earnest prayers for recovery.
“Please pray most earnestly for my son who is afflicted with insanity,” writes an anxious mother from California.
A Michigan sister requests us to pray that her hearing may be restored, and that her family may be led to accept this truth.
An anxious mother sends the request from Alberta, Canada, that prayer be offered for her son who is wandering away from God and this truth.
A burdened wife and mother sends this request from Oregon: “I ask your prayers for myself, that I may make things right which are hindering my husband and children from accepting this truth. O, pray earnestly for me that I may give God complete control of my life in every detail!”
A Wisconsin sister writes: “I send an earnest appeal for your prayers in behalf of my husband, who is just at this time passing through the deep waters of adversity and trial, and is out of the ark of safety. Please pray also for his aged parents. His mother is just beginning to keep the Sabbath with me, but needs a deeper work of grace in her heart.”
Publications Wanted
THE following-named persons desire late, clean copies of our periodicals, sent postpaid, for missionary purposes:—
Mrs. B. W. Orr, Coleman, Colo.
Mrs. William Harcourt, Clifford, Wis.
Mrs. A. F. Hamblin, Lake Arthur, La.
C. A. Johnson, 1344 J St., Lincoln, Mich.
Mrs. Chloe A. Houser, Fairmount, Tenn.
Mrs. Almon Alderman, R. F. D. 3, Box 154, Youngstown, Ohio.
J. H. Downes, care of Y. M. C. A., Cornhill, London, E. C. Continuous supply.
Mrs. W. E. Monds, R. F. D. 4, Kansas City, Kans. Life and Health, Instructor, and Signs.
Miss Ellen Clunas, 917 Lincoln Ave., Detroit, Minn. Signs (weekly and monthly), Protestant, Watchman, Liberty, Life and Health, and Instructor.
N. D. Ingram, Lillesville, N. C. Signs (weekly and monthly), Watchman, Life and Health, Protestant Magazine, reading matter on the war, and especially tracts on the Sabbath.
“The World’s Crisis in the Light of Prophecy”
By Editor
As announced last week, the Review and Herald is bringing out a new book in which present-day events are handled in such a way as to make more vivid and impressive the truth for this time which the Lord has committed to us. “The World’s Crisis in the Light of Prophecy” is not published for the purpose of giving up-to-date information regarding the war. Newspapers and magazines are full of that. The object of this work is to show from God’s Word what these things mean to the people of this world at this time, that men and women may be ready for the coming of the Lord, which these things show to be near at hand.
One lady, not a regular colporteur, so appreciates the possibilities in this book that she has asked for a thousand copies to sell in her neighborhood. It will sell almost at sight.
The book is well illustrated, and has cover in two colors. The various chapters have been written by men who have made a study of the prophecies for years, and are prepared to speak upon these subjects. Notice the following outline of topics:—
Foreword: “What Do These Things Mean?”
Chapter 1: “The Portent of the Times; the Great European Conflict and Its Meaning.”
Chapter 2: “The Eastern Question in Prophecy; What Comes When Turkey Falls?”
Chapter 3: “Approaching Armageddon.”
Chapter 4: “Waymarks to the Kingdom; Prophetic Outlines of the World’s History.”
Chapter 5: “The Primitive Faith the Standard for This Generation.”
Chapter 6: “Christ’s Second Coming; the World Waiting for Its Redeemer.”
Chapter 7: “Signs of the Approaching End.”
Chapter 8: “The Gospel Message for This Generation; the Judgment Hour — What It Involves.”
Chapter 9: “The Home of the Saved.”
It is expected this book will be ready for circulation within a week. Prices: Single copy, only 25 cents; postpaid, 100 copies, $12.50; 200 copies, freight paid, $25.
ORDER THROUGH YOUR TRACT SOCIETY
Review and Herald Publishing Association - - Washington, D. C.
YOUR HOLIDAY GIFTS
A World Atlas
A SPLENDID atlas of the world, and especially of the European field, has recently been published by the Geographical Publishing Company. This atlas contains a map of the world; a map of Europe, printed in several colors, showing the boundary lines very clearly and distinctly; a map of Central and Western Europe, the present war zone, showing all the defended cities of the various nations. It also contains photographs of the Belgian fortress at Dinant; the great fortress at Namur; the Valley of the Meuse, the theater of the war; the city of Liege; and of the border of Alsace, where the first battles were fought. It contains a picture of the French armored aeroplane, the Zeppelin used by the Germans, the war dirigibles used by England, the motor-drawn cannon; and photographs of submarines, torpedo-boat destroyers, and large battleships; also photographs of the royal families of Europe; and an index of cities, with pronunciation and population of each.
THERE are but few things, if any, more interesting and inspiring than the study of missionary biographies. The following are among the best:—
“Life of David Livingstone”
Mr. Livingstone was one of the pioneer missionaries to Africa, and the description given of the country, and of his journeys, missionary experiences, and adventures is most interesting and thrilling. 510 pages; 60 cents.
“Life of Martin Luther”
A brief history of his childhood, youth, his training for the priesthood, his experiences as a monk and a priest, his visit to Rome, his ninety-five theses, the papal bull, the Diet of Worms, etc. 160 pages; 50 cents.
“Pastor Hsi”
The story of one of China’s missionaries. 393 pages; $1.25.
“Life of Robert Moffat”
the pioneer missionary to South Africa. The person who reads this book will not forget the experience related. The habits and manners of the people of these early days, and the change brought about through the influence of the gospel of Christ, are related in a most graphic and impressive manner. 160 pages; 60 cents.
“Story of John G. Paton”
the apostle to the South Sea islanders. Mr. Paton was perhaps the first missionary to enter the work among the cannibals of the South Sea islands, and remained with it long enough to see the influence of Christianity upon the natives. A most interesting book. 450 pages; 60 cents.
“Florence Nightingale”
the sweet singer whose life of loving and kindly deeds alleviated the sufferings of the poor of England. Her name is a household word, and the story of her life will help any one to noble, kindly deeds. 166 pages; 60 cents.
“Life of Robert Morrison”
the pioneer of China missions. This book gives a brief history of his childhood and training, his preparation for mission work, and his experience in opening a door of hope to the Chinese. 160 pages; 60 cents.
“A Man of Valor”
A wonderful story of the life of Jonathan, around which is clustered a wealth of practical lessons and historical information. 247 pages; cloth, 75 cents.
“Spring Blossoms”
Doings of little people and anecdotes of birds and animals. 64 double-sized pages; 30 cents.
“The Advance Guard of Missions”
A brief history of the lives of twenty-five missionaries. 350 pages; $1.25.
News from Persia and Nigeria
Good news comes to the Mission Board from Elder F. F. Oster, dated Maragha, Persia, October 6, the letter having taken two months to reach Washington. “For five or six weeks,” Brother Oster writes, “all communication from the outside world was cut off. Mail is beginning to come again. We are especially glad to see the good old REVIEW. Soon after the war broke out I made a trip to Urumiah, going by horse through Kurdistan. All along the way I preached the message.” Elder Oster reports many interested. At some mission stations he was invited to present studies on the Eastern Question. The country was greatly stirred with the prospects of difficulty between Turkey and Russia. “We are of good courage in the Lord,” he says; “our lives are in his hands, and we need fear no evil. All these troubles speak in no uncertain tone that Jesus is soon coming, and we rejoice in the thought.”
From Elder D. C. Babcock, in newly opened Nigeria, we learn that already several Sabbath keepers are reported. Speaking of the breaking of communications for a time by the war, Elder Babcock says: “We wondered just what to do, as no word had been received from the brethren in Europe. While I could expect nothing else but that our brethren in America would stand by us, yet when I read the circular letter from the Mission Board, telling what the brethren were doing, it sent a thrill through my soul and gave renewed courage.” Our brethren of the British Union had filled in the gap in supplying immediate funds to these outlying fields, and now that Elder Dail, the secretary of the European Division, has his headquarters in Holland, he is able to keep in touch with all the fields so far as communications are possible.
Final Appeal for the Annual Offering
By W. T. Knox
THE year 1914 is about closed, a year that has, in its events, far overshadowed all others in the fearful happenings and terrible sufferings that have come upon a large portion of the human family. Four continents, with their teeming millions, are deeply affected by the greatest war in the history of the race. Far eclipsing the possible immediate effects upon the nations involved, is the question of what these things may mean to the inhabitants of the world in the light of prophecy. To the people of God, these days should call for the greatest consecration and activity in his service. Eternity is fast rushing upon us, and both for ourselves and for our fellow men there remains so much to be done before the coming of our Lord.
The terrible events of the day, in connection with the week of prayer, which marks the closing of the year, should cause every follower of Christ to ask himself if all has been done by him that should have been accomplished in the closing work of God. Doubtless no one is fully satisfied with his attainments in growth in grace, and as ever in the past, we must trust to the mercy of God, and cry to him to look not upon us, but upon the face of his Anointed. Our shortcomings will always condemn us, but our hope is in the abundant grace and merit of our Saviour. While this is true, it still remains a fact that the cause of God is calling to us in loud tones to be up and doing in these closing days of earth's history. Have we done all that we could to advance the cause of God? Have we given of our substance to his work in the past as we might? There is far greater need now for self-denying giving than ever before, and there remain but a few more days to us to make any improvement in our record for this year.
The last report from the Treasury Department of the General Conference revealed a shortage in the offerings for the year of $173,900.48. All will admit that the present conditions in Europe and all our mission fields necessitate that this amount shall be fully made up. We look to the Annual Offering on the closing Sabbath of the week of prayer to largely accomplish this, and with the urgent needs of the cause pressing upon us, we earnestly appeal to all for a most liberal offering upon this occasion.
W. T. KNOX.
Ministerial Reading Course
By J. L. SHAW
The Reading Course for 1915 consists of four books and the magazine Christian Education. The books in the Reading Course are as follows: “Medical Science of Today,” by Wilmott Evans, M. D.; “Gospel Workers” (new edition), by Mrs. E. G. White; “The Minister as Shepherd,” by Chas. Edward Jefferson; and “History of the Ancient World,” by George Stephen Goodspeed.
The magazine Christian Education will serve as the organ of the Ministerial Reading Course, and will contain a department known as The Ministry, which will carry the schedule of reading, suggestive notes on the subject matter of books in the course, and such hints and helps to the ministry as shall seem useful.
To those who are members of the Ministerial Reading Course the price of the four books and the magazine is $5; the regular price is $6.40.
Those members of the course who read the four books for 1915, and file a statement to that effect with the Educational Department, will receive an annual credit card. The Ministerial Reading Course during the next four years will carry on a suitable sequence of reading along the following lines: Homiletics, devotion, history, science, and education. The readers from year to year will therefore be reading to a definite plan, specially arranged for the improvement of gospel workers along the lines indicated. At the end of five years, including 1914, a certificate will be issued to those who each year obtain an annual credit card, showing that they have read the books assigned.
Further information concerning the Reading Course, the books for this year, and terms, will be found in the Educational department of this issue. All letters and orders for books should be sent to the General Conference Department of Education.
J. L. SHAW.
Adventist Missionary Held in Russia
FROM a Russian town, Elder Z. G. Baharian, superintendent of our Armenian Mission in eastern Turkey, reports himself being held in Russia. “October 28,” he says, “I left Constantinople for Samsun, on the Black Sea, but from Sinub our boat, a Russian one, suddenly changed its course to Russia. On account of the war I am held as a captive here. Probably they will send me to Odessa. The hand of Providence took me this way. Though I cannot understand, I believe this is for the best. Pray for me.”
Elder Haak’s Work in Argentina
In view of the cable message announcing the death of Elder B. C. Haak, of Argentina, South America, the following words from Elder J. W. Westphal, from a letter dated October 25, will be read with interest. Speaking of the conference just held at Rosario, one of the large cities of Argentina, he says: “The workers’ meeting was also a great blessing. Elder Haak’s experience in city work and the instruction that he gave will be, I have no question, a great help to the work in Argentina. I believe all our laborers and brethren feel that the General Conference has provided us with a good worker in this brother.”
California One-Day Rest Bill Defeated
A TELEGRAM received from Elder J. O. Corliss states that full returns have been received from the balloting in California on the One-day-of-rest-in-seven Bill. There were 290,679 votes received for the bill and 457,890 against it, giving a majority of 167,211 votes in opposition to the measure. This measure polled the fourth largest opposition vote of the entire forty-eight amendments. Good! Let the campaign of education go on.
First Missionary Outpost on Amazon River
From Elder F. W. Spies, of Brazil, we have received word of the establishing of our first missionary outpost on the Amazon River. Brother Max Rhode, who was formerly connected with the Brazilian publishing house, is pioneering this field.
