As the long winter evenings are approaching, when people spend more time in reading, a splendid opportunity is presented to both young and old for sending out papers and tracts to friends, and even to strangers whose addresses may be obtained in different ways, and writing to them warm-hearted missionary letters filled with the love of Christ. Many are now rejoicing in the truth whose first introduction to it came in this manner. Some valuable hints as to how to write such letters are given in a paper prepared by Miss Augusta Wade, of Loma Linda, Cal., and read at a convention, a portion of which follows.—
“From the beginning of the work of the third angel’s message, no more effective or fruitful method of work has been within the reach of all classes of believers than the sending of our message-laden literature with warm invitations to read. One can work at any distance, at any time, and in the most thorough manner. He may ponder each word; his stammering tongue does not annoy his one-soul audience. Then see the letter in the hand of the reader. In many ways it is better than a talk. It can be read at any time, and referred to again and again.
“At best, missionary correspondence is but a substitute for missionary conversation. It may, however, be used to better advantage than conversation by those who are naturally timid in approaching people regarding missionary subjects. A letter appeals to the eye and aids the memory of both the sender and the receiver. The apostle John, in one of his letters, thus states the true object of such a letter: ‘These things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.’ 1 John 1:4. ‘That ye also may have fellowship with us.’ Verse 3.
“To my mind, there can be no general rule for writing missionary letters; but you will be quite safe if your letter is filled with a love for souls, and if it throbs with the interest of a true friend. Perhaps the only practical rule about letter-writing is, ‘Do it now.’ Is it not because we put off so many things for a more convenient season that we find time for so few? There is another rule that we should never forget,—Be patient and persevering. ‘There is no difficulty,’ said a man of experience not long ago, ‘in finding members in every church who will talk about work, suggest work, and even start work; but there is a plentiful lack of people who just work and keep on working.’ Could there be a stronger incentive in this work than the love of Christ?
“We should write with a feeling of Christian love and interest instead of fear, and should do it in the most natural way possible. Instead of trying to frame something that sounds studied, let your effort be to make it simple, natural, and clear—just as you would tell it were you with the person. Many think the first letter is of little consequence, ‘merely a card or something of the kind to let the one receiving it know where the paper comes from,’ so it is written without thought or prayer, and a precious opportunity to send God’s blessing to a needy soul is lost. There are few who do not realize the power of first impressions, and these are just as vivid in written messages as in personal greetings. Then, however few the words or guarded the expressions in the first letter, let it bear with it the Spirit of God, fresh from the altar of a living faith and a consecrated life.
“There are other ways in which the first letter bears a very important relation to subsequent work and in which it really becomes a key to future correspondence. In taking up this line of work with a stranger, we must constantly draw out facts upon which to base our work, else we are continually groping in the dark, and are more than likely to overthrow the very confidence we wish to establish. This is especially true of the first letter. If the only object were to get an answer, there would be less trouble in gaining it; but the real object is to get such an answer as will show that cordial relations have been established, and will, at the same time, give us such information as will enable us to write the second letter intelligently and with a definite point in view.
“The first letter should be sent about the time when the first paper is mailed. This letter lets its receiver know at once why the paper is sent; it draws attention to the paper from the first, and removes any thought of a charge. Another thing that is necessary at the very beginning is to awaken a spirit of inquiry. Place yourself not above your correspondent as a teacher, but on an equality as a learner with him. Be frank, sincere, courteous. Be brief. Leave something to be written next time. Let us be sure that the work is undertaken in the spirit of true Christian humility, magnifying the Bible truths, and not self. Avoid sharp arguments: for love will gain the victory when arguments and authority are powerless. Ever remember that more people are ‘loved’ into the kingdom of heaven than are ever ‘argued,’ into it.
“It is well to become acquainted with the tracts on special topics to help in following up interests developed. Mention in the letter the publication sent, and refer to some article by name. Avoid technical expressions, as ‘the third angel’s message,’ ‘the truth,’ etc. Give definite address, and enclose a stamped envelope for reply. In a careful, tactful manner endeavor to find out religious belief, remembering at decisive points to throw all your talent into your words to save this interested soul.
“In this busy age it may be expected that many will read what is sent to them, and yet make no reply. As in other lines of endeavor, unwavering faith is required to keep up interest and enthusiasm in working with people through the mail. We may be positively assured, however, that missionary correspondence is a form of seed sowing, the results of which will never be fully revealed this side of the kingdom. The good seed sown may be for some time in a cold, worldly, selfish heart, without evidencing that it has taken root, but the Spirit of God operates on that heart and waters it with the dew of heaven, and by and by the long-hidden seed may spring up and bear fruit to the glory of God. So let us not be discouraged, but keep sowing, and leave the results with God.
“It is the overflowing life that is the enriching life, whether it flows out through the pen or the voice or the actions. To the faithful missionary correspondent God promises the pen of the learned that he may know how to write a word in season to him that is weary. I earnestly hope that the Lord will help us to awaken to our opportunities for a larger part in this work, that we may receive the blessings he has in it for us, and through it bring the truth to our relatives, friends, and many others.”
Working With “Ministry of Healing”
Some encouraging reports are being received from some of those who are engaged in the special effort for the sale of “Ministry of Healing.” W. R. Beatty, field missionary agent of the North Pacific Union Conference, speaks of the manner in which the work is being done there. He tells his own experience in a personal letter, as follows:—
“Our ‘Ministry’ campaign is on. Nearly all the workers in this union were present at our workers’ meeting, and our campaign was supposed to start October 19. Some of the workers are succeeding very well. Elder M. H. St. John, pastor of our East Portland church, sold nine copies the other day here in Portland, and he called at only eight houses.
“I had good success with the book two years ago here in Portland, but I felt that I could not fall back on that experience, so I went out to learn a selling talk. I selected Woodland,—just an ordinary town with no factories, mills, nor other financial interests,—and worked there one day. I secured orders from fourteen of the representative families of the place in the one day’s work. I got more real pleasure out of this one day’s work than any previous day for a long time. The people received me good-naturedly, and I think it was the easiest day’s canvassing I have ever done. I found nearly all interested in the missionary and benevolent objects of our sanitariums. Two families said they would speak a word for the Portland Sanitarium the next time they knew of any of their friends coming to the city for medical attention; and one woman told me that she had not been well for some time, and that she and her husband would go to the Portland Sanitarium in a short time for two weeks’ rest and recuperation. I know that if this work is properly carried on, it will be the means of sending many patients to our sanitariums.”
An outline of the selling talk that Brother Beatty developed in his practical experience is given herewith, and will no doubt offer suggestions and help to others.
The Central California Conference is engaged in a relief campaign in behalf of the educational work, using “Christ’s Object Lessons.” “Ministry of Healing” may be added later. Some good suggestions for the relief work in general21are given in communications sent out by the president of the conference, Elder J. H. Behrens. A letter of instructions is sent to all the laborers of the conference, together with a printed canvass, selling points, etc. Among some of the points covered in the instructions are the following:—
Spend time in thorough study of the book, canvass, methods, and principles of salesmanship.
Carefully study the territory.
Counsel with church leaders as early as possible, laying before them the whole plan, and telling them of the spirit of the work, thus gaining their cooperation.
Visit members in their homes to acquaint them with the work, and get book studies started.
Observe the Sabbath appointed for special services, making the service appropriate for the study of the work. Prayer and fasting.
Hold meetings for thorough preparation of members.
Carry on field work with members.
Have frequent rallies and experience meetings to keep up interest and help the discouraged.
Report to the office daily if possible. We hope to issue a daily bulletin throughout the campaign.
As early as consistent, secure orders from the members so that an order for books may be placed. “Ministry of Healing” should receive as much attention as “Christ’s Object Lessons.”
A general letter is sent to church officers, explaining the work and emphasizing the need of cooperation. There is also sent a copy of a number of selections from “Testimonies to the Church” bearing on the work in hand. Very full provision is made for a successful work.
Outline Canvass for “Ministry of Healing”
1. Greeting.
2. Calling in the interests of the sanitarium work.
3. Name which sanitarium you are working for. (Show picture.)
4. These sanitariums were established solely for missionary purposes, to benefit all classes of people, no matter what creed or nationality.
5. There are about forty of them located in various parts of the world.
6. Charity phase of their work.
7. Not endowed, nor owned by private individuals.
8. Need of help. (Present book here.)
9. Place book in the hands of prospective customer.
10. Turn to page 8 and read, “It is a dedicated book, . . . one on which publishers make no profit.”
11. Show letter.
12. Read page 8, par. 1, from “It reveals to us” to end of paragraph.
13. Turn through the book hurriedly in a general way, explaining that it is one of the finest books on health principles ever published. It tells us how to live happily and keep well while well. If there are any children in the home, say: There is a splendid section devoted to children. It begins right at the cradle, and tells the mother how to feed, clothe, and care for the infant until grown.
14. The price of the book is only $1.50. and I feel, Mrs. —, you will greatly enjoy having the work, and at the same time you will be helping a worthy charity. Now, I do not make my delivery until about the first of the month. I suppose that time will be agreeable to you (rising inflection).
15. Show guaranty book.
A letter of introduction is used by Brother Beatty, as follows:—
“To whom it may concern.
“The bearer of this note, Mr. W. R. Beatty, is authorized to call on you with the work ‘Ministry of Healing.’ Mr. Beatty receives no remuneration for his services, the entire proceeds from the sale of this book going directly to the Portland Sanitarium. This institution is established solely for missionary and benevolent purposes, no profits going to any private individual.
“Respectfully,
“PORTLAND SANITARIUM,
“(Signed by manager).”
Medical Missionary Department
By L. A. Hansen
Conducted by the Medical Department of the General Conference
L. A. HANSEN — — — — Assistant Secretary
News and Miscellany
Notes and clippings from the daily and weekly press
—A grain of fine musk will scent a room for twenty years.
—The National Woman’s Christian Temperance Union will hold its 1913 convention in Washington, D. C.
—The waiters in several of the leading hotels and cafés of Washington, D. C., struck for higher wages and better working conditions, Wednesday night, October 23.
—The plant of the Energetic Explosive Company, at Harleybury, Ontario, was blown up by an explosion October 23. Five persons were killed and three seriously injured.
—Nineteen persons are reported to have been stricken blind at Anderson, Ind., on October 27, as the result of gazing at a light caused by a workman welding with an electrical process on a trolley-wire.
—The large wireless towers at Fort Myer, Va., have been completed, and on the evening of October 28 sent out calls for Colon and Key West. The radius of the new plant will be about three thousand miles. This range is said to be the probable acme of wireless operations.
—Katmai volcano, which caused great damage on the Alaskan peninsula and adjacent islands last June, is believed to be in violent eruption again. The mail-steamer “Dora” reported by wireless October 25, that she is anchored off Whale Island, unable to proceed farther westward on her voyage to Dutch Harbor because of darkness caused by falling volcanic ashes.
—Another of Uncle Sam’s monster battle-ships was launched in Brooklyn October 30. The “New York” has a displacement of twenty-seven thousand tons. She will be armed with ten fourteen-inch guns, larger than those carried by any other war-ship. The work of building this huge vessel was begun May 1, 1911. When in commission she will be manned by sixty-three officers and a crew of more than one thousand men.
—There are five million more Mohammedans in India to-day than ten years ago.
—The custom of women smoking tobacco in various forms, especially in cigarettes, has grown to such an extent that there is discussion of the need and propriety of providing smoking-rooms exclusively for women.
—The revolt of Gen. Felix Diaz, nephew of the former Mexican president, has been short-lived. The town of Vera Cruz, which for several days he occupied with two thousand adherents, was taken by federal forces on October 23. General Diaz, together with thirty-eight other rebel prisoners, was captured and condemned by court martial to be shot.
—The steamship “Asiatic Prince,” arriving at New York, October 28, from Brazilian ports, brought details of the rescue of thirteen men from the burning steamship “Fagundes Varella,” sighted off the Brazilian coast on the morning of October 7. The ship had caught fire from chemicals in her hold. There were forty hands all told aboard, eighteen of whom were drowned, and nine of whom were picked up by another vessel unidentified.
—Determined to be fully prepared for whatever may happen in Latin America, the Navy Department has ordered the cruiser “Baltimore,” commanded by Lieut. B. Y. Rhodes, to be prepared to steam on a few hours’ notice. A conference between State and Navy Department officials decided that another American ship or two in Mexican waters would be advisable, and consequently it is expected that some eastern port of Mexico will be the ultimate destination of the “Baltimore.”
—Independence day was celebrated for the first time in China on October 10. The day marked the anniversary of the outbreak of the revolution. President Yuan Shi Kai reviewed the troops at Peking, and also sent a greeting to the Chinese in America, thanking them for money contributions. The president stated that the government has set before itself the goal of universal education, and he urged the emigrants to acquire knowledge as well as wealth, so as to benefit their native land. In Canton ten thousand soldiers and schoolchildren saluted the year-old flag of the republic, and there was a naval review of nineteen ships. Women and girls were given a public reception under the auspices of the government bureau of education—a new treatment for women in China.
—On October 29, it was reported from Europe that the long-awaited battle that may decide the fate of Turkey was being fought. The army under Nazim Pasha, minister of war and commander-in-chief, was engaged, and according to Constantinople official despatches the operations were favorable to the Ottomans. The despatches, however, did not indicate where the chief action was taking place or how the opposing forces compare. It is Turkey’s last chance to retrieve an almost hopeless campaign. Nazim Pasha is fighting with his back to the wall; his communications have been cut, and it is impossible for him to get fresh supplies or reinforcements. It is said that Turkey has approached Servia with a view to peace negotiations, as that country has taken possession of the most important territory.22
—The woods of New South Wales are so varied as to meet the world’s requirements.
—Sweden’s canals are frozen up on an average of one hundred fifty-five days in each year.
—The world’s record for the greatest number of divorce cases is held by the Hungarian city of Arad.
—J. Pierpont Morgan recently presented Trinity College with two hundred thousand dollars to cover the expenses of erecting a library and administration building, to be known as Williams Hall.
—The trade of the United States with Russia in 1911 showed a marked increase over that of the previous year, the imports from the United States, according to customs figures, rising from $29,827,255 in 1909 and $38,055,410 in 1910 to $51,918,695 in 1911.
—The phonograph has now been adapted for use on aeroplanes, especially for purposes of military reconnaissance. The observer, who may have no chance to make notes in writing, simply speaks into the machine, describing whatever he sees that is important. When a record is completed, it is thrown down to the ground and run through a reproducer.
—The Folsom Penitentiary in California is undertaking to educate, train, and develop the manhood of the convicts. The administration of the prison has been changed recently, and now the convicts are to be given a chance to attend school. Free text-books will be provided and every opportunity furnished those who wish to avail themselves of this privilege. An educational and reform policy on a large scale is being wrought out, and the convicts will be given every chance for self-improvement. It is hoped to send many of them out in a condition to police themselves. Sociological experts in criminology are much interested in this effort, and are giving it special attention.
—The suicide of General Nogi came as a shock to those who believed that Japan had absorbed a large portion of the modern spirit along with her adoption of Western civilization. The suicides of forty more within a week, and the placing of a military guard at the general’s grave to prevent his soldiers from following his example, accentuated that shock, and yet there was the feeling on the part of many that the thing was only the last gasp of an old custom. According to a recent report, the physician who attended the late emperor in his last sickness is being ostracized by his fellow countrymen because he has not followed the example of General Nogi. It is urged that he should commit suicide, not simply as an act of devotion, but because he failed to save his master’s life. The physician is apparently one of those who have actually imbibed Western ideas along with his Western learning, though whether he is a Christian or not is not stated. At any rate, he finds the Western teaching that there is no need for him to end his life wholly to his notion, and is bold enough to say that the etiquette of the court and the wilfulness of his royal patient so hampered him in the treatment of the case that he is not to be blamed for the fatal termination of the illness.
Business Notices
WANTED.—For boy eight years old, a home in which there is a desire to do real missionary work, and Christ’s methods of training will be closely followed. Address M. D. S., R. F. D. 6, Box 11, Adrian, Mich.
WANTED.—Position in bakery making a full line of goods, by single young man, experienced in general food work. Now employed, but desires to make change. Can give best of references. Address Dan Brown, Madison, Tenn., care Nashville Sanitarium Food Factory.
Move South before winter. Buy my pleasant Memphis home. Seven rooms. Gas, electric lights, all modern conveniences. Fruit-trees, shade-trees, vines, and roses. Finely fitted for poultry. Illustrated booklet, prices, terms, etc., sent free. J. S. Washburn, 665 Decatur St., Memphis, Tenn.
On account of engaging in the self-supporting work, I wish to dispose of my land in Kansas. All fine, rich, level. Wheat went thirty bushels to the acre this year. Must go at a bargain. Will exchange for Southern property suitable for missionary purposes. John R. Black, Madison, Tenn.
FOR SALE FOR MISSIONARY PURPOSES.—A brother and sister offer for sale at prevailing market prices irrigable lands at Moffat, Colo., and Mercedes, Tex., also a town lot in each of these places, a part of the proceeds of which is to go to foreign missions. Mercedes is in the rich Rio Grande Valley of southwest Texas, where vegetation grows the year round. Lands in both places on irrigating canal, with water rights. For further particulars and prices, address North Texas Conference, Keene, Tex.
Addresses Wanted
FROM several churches have come requests for the aid of the REVIEW AND HERALD in locating absent members. Any one knowing the whereabouts of any of the persons named in the following list is requested to write Mrs. O. R. Cooper, clerk of the Berrien Springs (Mich.) church, at once: Sego Chigo, S. M. Davis, J. J. Larch, Mrs. E. I. Larch, Elias Zaarah, Rosslyn Gallian, Agnes Ball, Louise Krohn, Margaret Loftus, Ella Schoolcraft, Cora Shaw, Charles Robinson, G. S. Calvert, May Erskin, Mrs. Emma Newman, Lyla Newman, and Letta Cooley.
THE addresses of Mrs. Anna Haglain, Arthur Millage, and J. E. Pierce are desired by the Englewood (Chicago) church. Write Hannah Johnson, 6805 Langley Ave., Chicago, Ill.
THE Boulder, Colo., church desires to know the whereabouts of Alice Bolton, H. R. McGee, Icle Sutter, Luella and Hazel Stout, Jacob Young, May Young, Elva Young, Dott Clements, Dr. and Mrs. G. C. Emery, William Caviness, and Maud Harris. These addresses should be sent to Mrs. F. W. Alcorn, 805 Maxwell Ave., Boulder, Colo.
The "Watchman," the Present Truth Evangelizer
By Editor
The December issue of the Watchman will indeed bring tidings of good cheer to those who are looking and longing for the coming of our Lord. The cover page represents his coming, accompanied by all the grandeur of the innumerable host. In striking contrast, Satan will be depicted as contemplating his horrible work of destruction during the long period when the earth is laid waste. The editor will write on “The Two Rival Kingdoms,” endeavoring to show the conclusion of the great controversy that has been going on for the past six thousand years.
THE MORNING COMETH
“The First Advent of Christ Compared With the Second” will be an article of great interest in view of the present-day failure to recognize the signs of the times, which plainly indicate the second coming of Christ.
In view of the present serious disturbances in Europe, the article “What Is Armageddon?” will be very timely. The nations of earth were never more emphatic in their protestations of peaceful intentions nor more diligent in preparation for the great struggle that seems imminent on the political horizon of Europe. We believe this article should be given wide publicity, and we shall be glad for the hearty cooperation of all our people, as this is a subject in which the whole world is interested, yet few know the real outcome involved.
“The Ten Commandments and the Twentieth Century,” by Prof. B. G. Wilkinson. This writer will show the destructive trend of modern times in invalidating the force of the ten commandments.
“God’s Eternal Purpose” (continued), by H. C. Hartwell. Those who read the first instalment in last month’s issue will be glad to read what the writer has to say further on this subject.
J. S. Washburn will continue his series on “The Unpardonable Sin.”
The daily newspapers are full of war and23rumors of war. Turkey continues to be the irritating element in the political game of Europe. That power is inextricably involved in the Eastern question, and we believe that only the humble student of prophecy can know the logical outcome of the disturbances that arise from this question from time to time. In view of this situation, Prof. P. T. Magan’s December article on the “Congress of Berlin” will be of vital interest.
Altogether, the December Watchman presents a strong array of articles of deep interest to all.
Rates in quantities: Five to forty copies, 5 cents each; fifty or more copies, 4 cents each. Rates to Canada and foreign countries: Five or more copies, 5 cents a copy. Yearly subscription price, $1.
Order through your local tract society.
NOTICES AND APPOINTMENTS
Northern Illinois Conference
We regret the necessity of postponing our conference. In connection with the annual conference we desire to begin a series of evangelistic meetings to be conducted by Elder K. C. Russell, but it seems inadvisable to begin these until after the holidays. On account of the presidential election, local option, corn-shucking season, and the holidays, it seems necessary for us to place our conference session Jan. 10-20, 1913. We did not do this without considerable counsel, however. After considering the matter in our committee with several of our leading ministers present, it was voted that Northern Illinois postpone its conference session to be held in Chicago, November 1-10, until Jan. 10-20, 1913.
We trust all the brethren will make note of this, and will inform any who may overlook this notice. Further, we trust that double the number will come, since we have placed it at a later date, according to the request of our brethren.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS CONF. COMMITTEE.
Publications Wanted
The following-named persons desire late, clean copies of our publications sent post-paid:—
M. V. Boyd, San Antonio, Tex., desires a supply of tracts and periodicals for free distribution.
A continuous supply of our truth-filled magazines, papers, and tracts is desired by Miss Myrtle Harrell, 208 Francis St., Hot Springs, Ark., for use in missionary work.
Obituaries
WEST.— Walter Ray West, infant son of Brother and Sister H. W. West, was born at Williamstown, W. Va., Sept. 17, 1912, and died Oct. 18, 1912, aged 1 month. The parents look forward to the first resurrection with hope.
F. H. ROBBINS.
CLARK.— Mary Ann Clark died in the hospital at Westfield, Mass., Aug. 18, 1912, aged 76 years. She had been a believer in the third angel’s message for about fifty-seven years. Her husband, two sons, one daughter, two stepdaughters, and one sister are left to mourn. The blessed hope sustained her to the last.
MRS. C. C. DROWN.
CARR.— Died Sept. 13, 1912, at the home of her son, near Lynn, Mass., Sister Ruth Carr, aged 91 years. She embraced present truth under the labors of Elder J. B. Goodrich, in Patten, Maine, about thirty-two years ago. For some time the family resided in Richmond, Maine, but after the death of her husband the deceased made her home with her son. She was laid to rest in the cemetery at Bowdoin, Maine, the town where she was born. The funeral services were conducted by the writer, words of comfort being spoken from 2 Sam. 14:14. Two sons and two daughters, together with many other relatives and friends, are left to mourn.
S. J. HERSUM.
(Atlantic Union Gleaner please copy)
GEORGE.— Died in Portland, Oregon, Sept. 4, 1912, Elder Fred George. He was born Dec. 3, 1838, in Russia. He was married to Christiana Bauer Feb. 5, 1857. Eleven children were born to them. In 1875 Brother George and his family settled in Ohio, where they resided two and one-half years. They then moved to Nebraska, where they lived ten years before coming to Oregon. The deceased accepted present truth in the year 1883, and from that time until his death labored as a missionary among the German people. A wife, five sons, and three daughters are left to mourn. There was a very large attendance at the funeral service, where words of comfort were spoken by Elder H. W. Cottrell and the writer from John 14:1-5 and Rev. 14:13.
H. BLOCK.
VARCO.— Mrs. Emeline Eddy Varco died at the home of her son Oct. 5, 1912, aged 86 years. She was born at Haldimand, Ontario, Canada, Jan. 10, 1826, and was married to Thomas Varco June 11, 1844. They settled in Wisconsin in 1850, and later came to Austin, Minn., near which place they took up a homestead. Grandmother accepted present truth in 1901, and united with the Austin Seventh-day Adventist Church. Although not physically able to attend church services regularly for some time, she often spoke of her desire to do so, and her beloved Bible was her constant companion. Five of her eight children are left to mourn. We are confident that our dear one sleeps in Jesus, and look forward with joy to the life beyond the grave where broken ties will be united. The funeral services, which were held at the old homestead, were largely attended, Rev. C. D. Belden (Baptist), an old friend of the deceased, officiating.
MRS. PEARL VARCO ROSENTHAL.
ELDER.— Died in Atwood, Kans., June 22, 1912, Maggie E. Elder, daughter of Ephraim and Elizabeth Hill. She accepted present truth in 1887, and until her death stood firm for the message through isolation, opposition, and affliction. She leaves to mourn their loss a husband, an aged father, one brother, one sister, and an adopted son. We laid her to rest to await the call of the Life-giver.
SCHRAM.— Died at Pomeroy, Wash., Oct. 9, 1912, Mrs. Catherine Schram, aged 70 years, 10 months, and 5 days. She was born in Ireland Dec. 4, 1841, and moved to Canada with her parents in early youth. She was married to Horace Schram in 1862, and they settled in Minnesota, where they made their home until about four years ago. Six children and three stepchildren are left to mourn. Sister Schram accepted present truth in 1878, and was faithful until death. For the last two years of her life she made her home with her daughter. The writer conducted the funeral service, and accompanied the body to Good Thunder, Minn., where our sister was laid to rest beside her husband, waiting the Master’s call to life immortal.
F. A. DETAMORE.
SERNS.— Brother Sern Serns was born Feb. 5, 1830, in Norway, and died in College View, Nebr., Sept. 30, 1912, aged 82 years, 7 months, and 25 days. In 1850 he came to America with his parents, and about four years later was united in marriage with Sarah Ann Thompson. To them were born eight children, five of whom are still living. Mrs. Serns died in 1878. Some years later Brother Serns was married to Mary Johnson. Three children were born to this union, two of whom, Elders Mahlon and Arthur Serns, are still living. In the early fifties the deceased accepted present truth, and became a charter member of the Oakland church, one of the oldest churches in the Wisconsin Conference. He died in the faith, and we are assured that he sleeps in Jesus. His companion, four sons, and three daughters are left to mourn. Words of comfort were spoken by the writer.
H. W. REED.
(Scandinavian papers please copy)
PIPER.— June 1, 1912, after seventeen months’ illness, Sister Hester (Hettie) Elizabeth Piper, wife of Elder A. H. Piper, fell asleep in Jesus. Sister Piper was born in London, England, Nov. 19, 1874. She accepted the message in Adelaide, Australia, in 1896, and attended Avondale School the first year of its existence. Later she was trained as a Bible worker under Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell, at Stanmore, New South Wales. Sister Piper was secretary for the Sabbath-school department for New South Wales at one time, and, at another time, held a similar position in South Australia. In 1899 she was united in marriage to A. H. Piper, and, after taking up Bible work for a time, left, with her husband, in 1900 for the Rarotongan Mission, South Seas, they being the first Seventh-day Adventist young people from Australia to go to a foreign field. Falling health brought them away from the field they loved so well in 1907, and soon after Sister Piper accompanied her husband to his appointment as president of the West Australian Conference. During 1910 she made a visit with Brother Piper to the Society and Cook Islands. Soon after her return to New South Wales, she was stricken with consumption, which, after so many months, claimed its victim. But Sister Piper died triumphant. It was a pleasure to be at her bedside during her illness. Many testify to having learned lessons of faith and trust there. She worked for her Master while on her sick-bed until her hands became too weak to ply the needle longer. A number of pounds were thus earned for missions. She was not afraid of death. Worn out by the cruel disease, she longed to rest. Her last words were, “I am so happy.” To her the sting of death had been taken away, and she rested in her Saviour’s love. On a beautiful afternoon, June 3, we laid her body to rest in the Gore Hill Cemetery, there to await till the voice of the Life-giver wakes his sleeping saints.
J. E. FULTON.
POLMANTUR.— Arnie Polmantur was born at Keeler, Mich., thirty-one years ago, and died at Boulder, Colo., Oct. 14, 1912. He was married to Miss Kittie Johnson, and to them a child was born last February. The deceased accepted his Saviour and united with the Seventh-day Adventist Church last summer. He fell asleep with the bright hope of being awakened in the resurrection morning. He leaves a mother, wife, and child, and a large circle of friends to mourn their loss.
W. C. HEBNER.
CRICHLOW.— Sister Agatha Crichlow was born in Antigua, British West Indies, Dec. 3, 1872. Being the daughter of a Moravian minister, she was brought up strictly in that faith, and was a loyal and faithful adherent. In the fall of 1890 she, with the rest of the family, accepted present truth through the efforts of Elder D. A. Ball, one of the pioneer missionaries to the West Indies, and was as faithful to the third angel’s message as she had been to the Moravian principles. Seven years ago she came to the United States, and was then married to Elder J. F. Crichlow of Barbados, with whom she united her efforts in spreading the message among the people of the Southland. They labored as self-supporting missionaries in Alabama for several years, whence they were asked by the brethren to connect with the work in South Carolina. Sister Crichlow was among the first to conduct mission schools in South Carolina for the colored people, and it was while engaged in this work that her health became impaired, necessitating her discontinuing school work. She applied to local physicians, but failing to get relief, she came to the Rock City Sanitarium three months ago. After careful examination, however, it was found that disease had made such deep inroads in her system that no hope for permanent relief could be held out to her or her loved ones. The elders of the church were called in, and the instruction given in James 5 was observed; but it soon became evident that it was the Lord’s will that our sister rest from her labors. She calmly fell asleep at 12:30 Sunday night, October 6. She leaves a husband, a little daughter eight months old, one brother, two sisters, and a number of friends to mourn their loss; but they “sorrow not, even as others which have no hope,” being assured that their loved one sleeps in Jesus, and will be among those who will come up from their dusty beds to greet the Lord at the first resurrection. Appropriate words of comfort were spoken by Elder E. L. Maxwell.
D. E. BLAKE, M. D.
(West Indian papers please copy)
