Vol. 35 July, 1948 No 7 trailtraillrei • trifli • AV • Frilla'rltrentreil • trivillnItravitrefliriKYVIVI * VellreclfriOnextv-

Mrs. Thirza Buckman

"The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving- kindness have I drawn thee." .Jeremiah 31:3.

Amazing! Oh, how can this be, "My home with you I long to share, That God should love and care for me? In that dear country's balmy air. It cannot be because I'm good, Oh, how I long that you may see Or always do that which I should. The place I have prepared for thee!

I have no merits, I confess; "Remember, 1 was crucified I am myself unrighteousness. For you, was slain, in travail died. Oh, it is this, just this, I know— My joy can never be complete It is because lie loved me so. Until My precious ones I greet.

Clear, from afar, I heard the call, "With joyful heart I then shall sing, "I've loved thee, notwithstanding all. And all the bells of heaven will ring; I know thy failings, weakness, too; With My redeemed, all glorified, Draw near,.I long to strengthen you. Then, then I shall be satisfied."

"My love is tender, deep, and strong. What can I, Father, render Thee What though the journey may seem long? For all that Thou hest borne for me? Your burdens you may cast on Me; I'll take the cup, and wilt Thou fill Come, let Me carry them for thee. According to Thy blessed will.

"I see thee, child, I count thy tears; I call upon Thy Holy name I know thy burdens, all thy fears." To cover all my guilt and shame. Oh, sweetly now I hear Him Say, Then, reproduce Thyself in me. "Yea, I will hold thy hand alway. Amen, Amen. So let it be.

THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

ANSWER: No, the General Conference has never provided such a leaflet and the reason is obvious. Tithe paying is a duty man owes EDITORIAL to God and not to the conference. The Lord has laid down certain principles in !both the Bible and the Spirit of prophecy with refer- Education of Our Youth nearly every class recitation, will surely befog ence to how we should pay our tithe, but the minds of youth and cast them upon the He has never given instruction so, implicit ROBABLY no question arouses more rocks of uncertainty and leave them without and inclusive that we have no opportunity s a foundation for faith—adrift in a world of general interest or more willing sacrifice to exercise our own conscience and judgment J3 doubt-and scepticism. Such conditions breed in the payment of tithe. "Every Christian among Seventh-day Adventists than the edu- juvenile delinquency and crime and are fertile cation of our children and youth. The de- is a steward of God, entrusted with His soil for the growth of revolutionary theories of nomination is spending millions of dollars goods. Remember the words,, 'Moreover it overnment that now threaten the peace of annually on Christian education. But why g is required of stewards, that a man be found the world. faithful.' 1 Corinthians 4: 2. Let us be sure all this effort and expense when there are In the light of these facts how can we ex- established public Schools everywhere which that we are not robbing God in any jots '1 pect the schools of the world, or teachers who without cost to us will educate our children or tittles; for much is involved in this ques- have no love for God or faith in His word, and prepare them for life? The reason is tion."—Testimonies, Vol. 9, p. 246. to prepare our Seventh-day Adventist youth obvious. We know that during the formative We believe that a businessman who has for the hour of temptation and the coming taken God into partnership, and who ap- years not only the future well-being but the of our Lord? If our young people are to be eternal destiny of our children are determined. proaches the problem of figuring, out his tithe saved with us in the eternal kingdom of God, under the direction of the Spirit of God and We therefore spend willingly our meager they must during the days of their youth be savings or go without luxuries or even neces- in harmony with the instruction in the Scrip- developing a firm and unwavering, confidence tures, will be led to a right solution of his sities to make possible the training of our in the word of God and in this last message youth for the kingdom of heaven. This is problem. There are so many different con- that we have been commissioned to carry to ditions in business enterprises that any at- the only excuse we have for conducting a the world„ system of schools apart from the world. The tempt by the General Conference to lay On July 24, the church will observe Educa- down rules for tithe paying would only lead subject 'of Christian education, therefore, tional Day: It will give every church elder touches every home financially and spiritually to confusion and misunderstanding. and pastor an opportunity to rally our people However, "God desires all His stewards to and is of vital interest to every parent. to a fuller support of our schools and colleges. There is no lack of educational opportuni- be exact in following divine arrangements. This is, a work that lies neatest to our door. They are not to offset the Lord's plans by ties in the world. The printing presses are Giving to missions and sending relief to turning out millions of textbooks, and govern- performing some deed of charity, or giving Europe are important and needful, but they some gift or some offering, when or how they, ments are erecting fine school buildings and can never be substitutes for providing a furnishing them with the' very latest equip- the human agents, shall see fit. It is very Christian education for our own children and poor policy for men to seek to improve on ment and facilities. Thousands of teachers youth. -are being efficiently trained in the arts and God's plan, and invent a makeshift, averaging The servant of the Lord has said: "As a (Please turn to page 4) sciences, and they .are being paid out of church, as individuals, . . . we must make public treasuries to carry the blessings of more liberal efforts for the- training of our education to the children and youth of the young people. . . The church is asleep, nations. But what has been the moral fruit- and does not realize the magnitude of this age of all this effort? Do we see large returns matter of educating the children, and youth." in the way of a more stable social develop- —Counsels to Teachers, p. 43. ment and a strengthening of the moral fiber Let July 24 be a rally day, but also a day SUBSCRIPTION RATES of the nations? No! In fact, as we look out of planning that every Seventh-day Adventist upon the world around us, we see just the United States and Canada child or young person who intends to be in Yearly subscription . . . . • $1.50 opposite. At no time in history has the moral school next year may be in a Christian school Clubs of two or more copies to one address, one year, each . • • , . • • • 1.35' decadence of the race been so manifest, and which will be to him a harbor of refuge in juvenile delinquency so alarming. Crime is Foreign Countries Where Extra these troubled times. Postage Is Required on the increase everywhere, and lawlessness, —EDITOR, Yearly subscription . . . . . 1.65 sex orgies, and drinking parties have become Clubs of two or more copies to one address, commonplace, especially among the teen-age one year, each . . . . . . . 1.50 groups, who are the direct product of modern Question Corner ED/TOR JAMES I. ROBISON Associate Editors educational methods. In this column each month will be an- The responsibility for these appalling social Theodore I. Oswald, Eldine W. Dunbar swered questions on the -work and duties of John E. Weaver conditions must be shared, and that in no church officers or questions concerning any Assistant Editors small degree, by the public schools and 'col- problem that may arise in connection with the Cora F. Thurber Marjorie W. Marsh leges of today. Anyone who has watched local church or any of its departments. We Arabella J. Moore Mary L. Scott the educational trends during the past half EDITORIAL COUNCIL welcome your questions and ask that they be M. E. Kern H. T. Elliott century must realize that the situation that sent to the Editor, CHURCH °PINCERS' GA- the world faces today, is largely the result of ZETTE, CI o General Conference, Takonia Park, PUBLISHED monthly by the SOUTHERN PUBLISH- 9 a wrong education—an education that has Washington 12, D. C. ASSOCIATION, 2119 Twenty-Fourth Avenue, denied the authority of God's word and set North, Nashville 8, Tennessee. Entered as second- aside the binding claims of His law. Secular class matter March 26, 1948, at the post office II in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.A., under Act of education has demonstrated its utter inability How to 'Pay Tithe Congress of March, 3, 1879. to change the hearts of wayward youth or to arouse their wills to build a better life and QUESTION: Does not the General Conference ARE YOU MOVING? guide them into paths of righteousness, Knowl- have a leaflet of instruction on how farmers, You should notify us in advance of any change edge in itself is no savior. An education apart storekeepers, manufacturers, and other types of address, as the post office will not forward your from God, in which science is deified and in of businessmen out their tithe? papers to you even if you leave a forwarding ad- , should figure dress. Your compliance in this matter will save which infidel sentiments are -interwoven into If so, please send a copy. delay' and expense. Vol.. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE

Captain of the Lord's Host would prefer to do. But experience demon- Sabbath schools, and Sunday schools. Litera- strates that many times the task that can ture evangelism is carried on through the THE CHURCH MISSIONARY LEADER best be done by the individual is not in- handing out of the casual-contact tract, the By HENnY R BROWN dicated, and -many times it is true that the systematic coverage of territory, the Bible work the individual member has the talent Correspondence School, tract rack mainten- E are verydefinitely instructed that Wmany of the ills of the church are to do is- least suspected by that member him- ance, magazine circulation, and church pub- due to the fact that our members are not self. All 4 this. information is of value to licity. The second general method of Ad- busy in God's work. This makes the task the missionary leader. Each member of the ventist evangelism is through the welfare of the missionary leader one of prime im- church is expected to witness for Christ in work. The ladies of the church maintain portance. We would almost make bold to some congenial. way under the general direc- cooking schools for the benefit of the non- say that it is the most important position in tion of the Missionary Volunteer. Junior Adventist community, or train certain women the church. It is his work to lead the church Missionary Volunteer, the Society of Mis- to be home nurses or to care for the needy. members into a program of Christian wit- sionary Men, and the women's activities, al- it should be the objective of the missionary =ming. The motives behind this program lowing each member to work in his own leader, through the course of years, to es- are twofold: First, one's own spiritual life particular way. God has not given the same tablish new churches within his territory. A demands that he pass on the truths to others. talents to all, and consequently there must be healthy colony of bees swarms once a year. His ability to receive depends upon the an adaptation of activities to fit the talents The hive becomes too crowded and one group amount he expends for the benefit of others. of the members. swarms off and establishes a new colony. Second, the Seventh-day Adventist church Adventist lay activity follows two general Healthy churches should do likewise. It is a militant organization. We have learned types. First, there is the evangelistic work, should-be a part of the strategy of the mis- that we cannot hold our position merely by orally carried on by personal witnessing, the sionary committee, under the officership of defensive warfare. Our message is for the giving of Bible readings, and lay preaching. the missionary leader and the missionary include temperance work. branch world, and we must give it energetically, This would secretary, to choose strategic center, and say, and aggressively until the world is warned. Lct us discuss the strategy the missionary leader should follow. First, he is to know the territory of his church. In order to do this, he should have a map defining explicitly that portion of the city (if there are two or more churches in the city) which definitely belongs to his church. This should be out- lined as to the very streets. If it is a country church, he should know just which portion of the county, or township, belongs to his church. This is necessary so that he may form his plan and look forward to a comple- tion of his task. Such planning is also neces- sary so that during Ingathering and other activities there not a duplication of effort to the embarrassment of the church. He should know where the foreigners live, and which languages are spoken within his church territory. He should know just where , the needy families live in his district, and have them listed so as to arrange definite help for them. Then, above all, he should know where there are interested people. An exact record should be kept of the interests that have been developed due to previous contact, by col- porteurs, Ingathering, or other visiting. He must know his own forces. The mis- sionary leader should secure from the church clerk a complete list of the church members, and have a card index file of the membership, with their children, their addresses, and the phone numbers. Divide these into groups according to the activities each would choose to engage in. In many churches on the first Sabbath of the year a little covenant card is passed out and each member is asked to indicate the type of missionary activity he THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948,,

"hi five years we must have a church in this church at least once, a year. Rather, than this plan, instead of daring to attempt an suburb, or in that little town." Then work have the business of resubscribing done in the improvement on it."—Testimonies, Vol. 9, toward that end. The church in Sao Paulo, church, would it not be a good thing to have p. 248. • Brazil, has ten branch Sabbath schools. Berlin these assistants to the missionary secretary A careful study of the Bible and the in- had more than twenty churches before the visit the members in their own homes and take struction in the Spirit of prophecy on the war; Rather than build a larger church when their subscription for the Review? If.-it is subject of tithing will give every business- the old one gets crowded, start new groups found that some cannot pay the full price, man the divine counsel that he needs in the which will then serve as centers 'of evangelism perhaps it can be arranged with the Book and payment of an honest tithe. for that neighborhood. Bible House to have a club come to the church In order to accomplish this end, it should and have them distributed weekly. Church Business Meetings be the purpose of the missionary leader to • In order to carry on his work the missionary QUastiox: Could you make some sitggei gaits leader must have regular meetings with his have a systematic coverage of every home as to how the church business meeting might missionary committee. They should plan in within his territory periodically. Let one cam- be- made more attractive and -thereby draw a a businesslike way to carry on the work of paign, be the placing of the Present Truth, in larger attendance? every home, or perhaps an invitation to en- Christ's church. He will work in very dose Awswin: It is most unfortunate that many co-operation with the Missionary Volunteers roll in the Bible Correspondence School, or church members take so little interest in the and the Junior Volunteers in order that they a coverage with the Prediction Series of tracts. business and financial aspects of our church may know his plans and work intelligently. As interest develops, Bible studies will be work. The business meeting is one of the The missionary leader will carry on a train- called for. Perhaps a cottage meeting or a most important gatherings of the church. Here ing program in order, to better fit his mem- lay-preaching effort can be carried on; perhaps are rendered the reports from the treasurer, bers to carry on his grand, aggressive attack the interest can be crystalized into a branch clerk, and departments of the church, and the Sabbath school, qr it may even begin in the against the forces of sin. Yearly he will have a class in "Training Light Bearers," prepar- business interests of the church attended to. form of a Sunday school before people have These are important and should interest every ing them to give Bible studies to their neigh- accepted the Sabbath. Little' by little the member, who through his gifts, tithes, and bors and to their acquaintances. Where a interest will grow until a new church is missionary activities has made these reports qualified individual is in the church, a home formed. possible. nursing course can be conducted; or where There are several activities that should be It would be well to make an ,urgent appeal there is a conference nurse, possibly it can be carried on constantly, such as the maintain- to the church on the Sabbath to attend the arranged for her to come and conduct this ing of tract racks in barbershops, bus stations, business meeting. A well-announced meet- beauty parlors, or any, place where men and training course. In many churches a sales- manship class can be directed by some resi- ing is half the battle. ,Point out the importance women congregate. The Adventist magazines of every member being acquainted with the dent colporteur, so that part-time colporteurs should lie placed in public libraries and their business of the church of which he is and Health, Our a subscriptions maintained from year to year. and salesladies can sell Life member, also his responsibility in these lines and Canadian Signs of Our better books should also be placed in Times, The Message, of church work. Then see to it that the in assigned territory. Then when a the publiclibraries, and it should be explained the Times reports at the meeting are well prepared, and,, to the librarians that you wish an Adventist lay-preachers' institute is held in the cohfer- ence, well-chosen men should be asked to at- if possible, duplicated copies placed in the shelf to 'be built up containing all of the hands of- all those who attend. This is es- finest of our literature. A definite member tend it and develop their gifts in lay preaching. Records must be kept. Consequently the pecially important for the treasurer's report. , of the church should be chosen to be respon- A blackboard graph on the growth of the sible for these various activities. A brother missionary leader will want to see the in- dividual reports of his workmen. These are finances of the church in relation to member- who perhaps cannot give Bible studies could ship would add interest; also comparative be assigned three or four tract racks. It should taken weekly on the yellow card in the ten- minute missionary period between Sabbath graphs showing the relation of the current be his responsibility to keep them clean and quarter with corresponding quarters for provided with literature. This project should school and the worship service. Monthly his missionary secretary will provide him with several preceding years. The departmental be carried on from year to year. reports from the Sabbath school, Missionary 'There are three or four special efforts a summary of the church activities, which should include reports from the Dorcas society, Volunteer society, the Dorcas society, the which will require considerable planning. Society of Missionary Men, and the. Church First is the Ingathering. Ascertain early in the Missionary Volunteer society, the activi- ties of lay preachers or part-time colporteurs Missionary leader should be well prepared the year what the goal of the church is to be and not only give statistics but interesting and then plan for each member to contact in the church. He will very jealously keep his Ingather- items of missionary work or soul-winning ex- those individuals he can best approach in the periences, business district, others to meet their personal ing records, with a list of donors, so that this activity can be intelligently entered into the A' brief, appropriate Bible study by the friends and acquaintances, and still others elder or pastor as an introduction would be to work in their neighborhood, each being following year. Such a program, directed by a live, con- in order, but this should not be more than responsible for the minute-man goal for that ten minutes long. Special music could be year. Let this be done with dispatch, with the secrated, intelligent missionary leader, will be a blessing to any community. The active prepared or other interesting items included, least amount of disturbance to the regular but the success of the business meeting will, worship of the congregation. missionary endeavors will cause, the name Seventh-day Adventist to be respected in that depend fast upon a successful announcement, Yearly we have the Signs of the Times and then upon live, interesting, informative evangelism to plan for. By means of a group community, and the church will be influential in extending the kingdom of God. reports from the church officers. All who of assistants to the missionary secretary let attend should have the privilege of asking every member of the church be approached ' questions about any of the reports, which in his own home and his club pledged, so Question Corner should be briefly but courteously answered that on the Sabbath there will be little need (Continued from page 2) by the elder or the secretary concerned. for the business phase to be entered into. Church work succeeds when it has good . The Liberty magazine should .be placed in up. their good impulses on this and that leadership, the enthusiastic suppOrt of the the hands of every opinion-molding citizen, occasion, and offsetting them against God's members, and when there is good teamwork be he a high-school teacher, local or state requirements, God calls upon all to give on the part of all who bear responsibilities -in official, or a profesgional businessman. their influence to His own arrangements. He the church. A business meeting reveals to a , Subscription to the Review and Herald has made His plan known; and all who large extent whether such leadership and should be urged upon every member of the would co-operate with Him must carry out teamwork are present in a congregation. Vol 35, No 7 THIS IS THE HARVEST HOUR

W. H. Baarcson

Christian, rouse! fight in this warfare, ' tease not till the victory 's won; Till your Captain loud proclaimeth, "Servant of the Lord, well done!" He, alone, who thus is faithful, Who abided' to the end, Hath the promise, in the kingdom An eternity to spend. —Selected.

"Say not ye, there are yet four' months, shall submit themselves and then'cometh harvest? Behold; I say unto unto Me." Psalm 18:43, you, Lift up your eyes, and look my the fields; 44, for they are white already to harvest." John "All over the world, men 4: 35. and women are looking A few years back we passed the century niark wistfully to heaven. of the great judgment-hour message. For more Prayers and tears and in- than one hundred years this people have been quiries go up from souls raising the cry, "Behold, the Bridegroom longing hi light, fox grace, cometh." Millions of books, tracts, and pen- for the Holy Spirit. Many ' odicals have been printed and scattered over are on the very verge of the kingdom, waiting many of our friends, as yet unbaptized, who the earth. Millions of sermons have been only to be gathered in."—Testimonies, Vol. had been attending our lectures and church preached by our evangelists. Medical and 6, p. 71. services did not dare any longer to take part in educational institutions have been established This is all in fulfillment of God's promise our activities. The evidences of an approach- upon every continent and in scores of island recorded in Acts 2: 17, "I will pour out My ing war were already in the air. Many of our fields, and these have been exerting a mighty Spirit upon all flesh." Not only upon the brethren and co-workers in the ministry had influence in favor of the truth. Hundreds of church will God's Spirit be poured, but also been drafted into military service. - churches have been established, and their upon those who are groping in darkness but In World War II many of our meeting members have joined in the effort to send who are seeking for the light. God's Spirit places were destroyed by air attacks. The forth-the call to the nations to prepare for the will prepare them to receive His gracious catastrophe to our German people was ter- advent of Christ and the end of this world. invitation as soon as it is brought to them. rific, not only in respect to material things Thus, seed has been sown everywhere, Now is the time of the harvest., Already but still more in spiritual. While some of the e8cept, perhaps, in the most remote places. we have delayed much too long in garnering older people found their way back to their And a whole century has passed. We have in the multitudes who must yet be brought former spiritual relationship, there were hun- been long at the task. Surely now we should to Christ. It is this generation that is to dreds of thousands of the middle-aged and expect to reap a mighty harvest. respond to God's call to the marriage supper, younger people who found no solid founda- The La tells us that this message is to of the Lamb, not another. tion to fall back on. In the face of spiritual go forth with a "loud, cry"—like an angel Seed must still be sown, but seed- sowing calamity one was reminded of the word of the flying through the heavens, calling to the alone will not suffice now. Every evangelist Lord in Jeremiah 2: 13, "My people have nations to repent and turn to God! It is to who goes into the field to conduct an effort committed two evils; they have forsaken Me stir men's hearts everywhere, and thousands must reap as well as' sow. No colporteur, the Fountain of ' living waters, and hewed are to be converted in a day. In fact, the doctor, nurse, teacher, is to be satisfied with them- out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can advent call is to develop into the greatest merely exerting-an influence for the truth; he hold no water." religious movement of all time. It is to con- must work to bring the lost into the church. Men were to find the way back to the real stitute God's final appeal to the nations. Every church member should be searching for source of life. This is our day. It is the hour And now is the time for the harvest. This souls as they who must give an account to God. when the advent message must be proclaimed has been long delayed. Comparatively 'few ' God and the angel have long waited for as the only reality of truth; as the answer to have accepted the message. Millions have our full co-operation in reaping earth's full the question of humanity. Hence, our services heard and have hesitated to step out and obey harvest. Let us arise, and put in the sickle. on the Sabbath, as well as our religious meet- God. They have not, as yet, dared to pay the The fields are white to the harvest. ings on Sunday and on other days, and our price. These must now be gathered in. Other young people's services, are enjoying a very millions wait in darkness because they have • Joys and Sorrows of the good attendance. Since many of our former - not yet heard the message. Marl of these Advent Message in Germany meeting places had been destroyed so that our will respond. They must be reached without Since the year 1933 there have been many believers have to gather in those that still re- delay. Of this class the Lord has said: "Thou obstacles in the way, of preaching the advent main, these facilities have proved to be alto- .-has delivered Me from the strivings of the message in Germany. Publication of religious gether too small. people;, and thou hast made Me the 'head of literature was more and more curtailed, so that In this report I would refer in particular the heathen: a people whom I have not fewer periodicals, books, pamphlets, and tracts to, the Home Missionary aspect of the advent known shalt serve Me. As soon as they hear could, be published and circulated by us. Re- work. During the increased interest .wh1ch is of Me, they shall obey Me: the strangers ligious propaganda was frowned upon, and (Please turn to page 32)

6 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

c. Taking M.V. reports in the society Too Many Vacant Chairs NOTES TO OFFICERS meeting. 12. Maintain an optimistic attitude toward Every organizer knows the encouragement The Hub of the M.V. Wheel the members and the work of the society by and lift he gets out of an executive committee believing in, commending, and encouraging meeting that is well attended. But he also at every opportunity. knows the dragging attempts to success which To 'have a true-running, efficiently operat- are so evident in a pohrly attended staff meet- ing Missionary Volunteer Society- ing. Too many times our Missionary Volun- 1. The Senior Missionary Volunteer Society Missionary Volunteer Leaflet teer executive committee meetings are not should have an advisor to act and be known well attended. This is especially true dur- as the Missionary Volunteer Sponsor. This Rack ing the summer months, when so many officers person should be an elder or other qualified A year ago the principal of one 'of our and leaders, as well as members, are away individual elected by the church. He should academies made a simple, attractive rack on vacation or sporadic trips, or when they serve as a member of the church board and to hold Missionary Volunteer leaflets. He have permanently moved. It is the respon- also as a member of the society executive filled it with the various subjects dealt with sibility of the M.V. Society leader to keep committee. He should be considered the in the more than forty leaflets offered to all such vacancies filled. When it is known special advisor of the young people of the Missionary Volunteers. At this writing over that key officers are to be absent for a period church, and should act as a guide and coun- two thousand leaflets have been chosen from of weeks or months, plans should be laid to sellor to the M.V. leader and the other officers the rack by his students. He reports that he fill their vacancies, either during their absence of the Missionary Volunteer Society. has yet to find one leaflet tom 'up or lying or permanently when necessary. 2. Endeavor to keep the fundamental ob- around. This late in the year, when the church jectives of -the Missionary Volunteer Depart- Young people like to read Missionary nominating committee is disbanded, the ment before the officers and members of the Volunteer leaflets. Make them available by vacancies created in the major offices of the society. The success of any group depends putting up a Missionary Volunteer rack in M.V. society are filled in the following way: upon its faithfulness to the true purpose your school or Missionary Volunteer Society When the office of M.V. leader, or any other of, the organization. room. They help mold character, major office, becomes vacant during the year, 3. Encourage and help the society executive May we suggest a few Missionary Volunteer the church board usually inaugurates the ap- committee to function intelligently and with leaflets which we believe could be placed in pointment of the new leader. Minor officers, earnest purpose in laying a well-balanced pro- a Missionary Volunteer leaflet rack? Here such as band leaders and assistants, usually are gram of activity for the society. (Study M.V. they are: appointed by the M.V. Society, and the re- leaflet four for direction in society executive placement for such offices when vacated should committee work.) The Lifework. 4. be promptly attended to, the executive com- Encourage and assist every new society To Love, Honor and Cherish. mittee making recommendation to the society officer to understand and faithfully discharge What About the Movies? the details of his work. for its approval. The Character Classics. For the welfare of this important branch I 5. Appoint and direct the various sub- Victory in Christ. leaders, known as devotional secretary, edu-- of the Lord's work, we must endeavor to How Shall I Choose My Calling? maintain a strong organization throughout the - cational secretary, etc., to promote their lines I Will Be a Christian Sometime. of endeavor regularly and systematically. summer months and on through to the dose 6. Use the weekly society meeting topics of the year. in the GAZETTE and keep in line with the the departmental cycle of subjects. "We Will Now Take 7. Adapt and foster the following service Offering" bands: Tract Racks Custom and tradition, as well as need, have a. Crusader Corps (with the Crusader ANOTHER SHARE-YOUR-FAITH SUGGESTION filmstrips and projector). decreed that an offering shall be taken at b. Prayer and Personal Worker's Band. each Missionary Volunteer meeting. But the One of the fine things about Share-Your- c. Christian Help Band. manner in which the offering is taken often Faith is that there is a project for every Mis- d. Literature and Correspondence Band. indicates the planning, or lack of it, on the sionary Volunteer. part of the officers. 8. Plan to organize every member of the The tract rack is a Share-Your-Faith ad- x No 1. Has anyone seen the baskets? society in some activity, encouraging a general venture in which every young person can Participation in the Share-Your-Faith move- x No 2. Here Johnny and Freddie, will participate. A tract rack in a bus depot did ment. Also endeavor to enlist every member you take the offering tonight? a "big business" in 1947. In a little over in some portion of the program periodically. ✓Yes 3. The ushers will come forward a year eight thousand pieces of free literature Avoid using the superior-talented young peo- now and receive the offering. were selected from the rack. In each piece of ple to excess. Never say, "The evening's offering will now literature was placed a Twentieth-Century 9. Provide time and opportunity for the be taken." Always explain what your society Bible leaflet advertising a b;ief course of Bible relating of missionary experiences of young is doing with the money. Tell what your studies. The interest in the locality of this , people who, have engaged h this type of work. current project is. Let the people know what particular tract rack has become so great that 10. Be sure that every society meeting con- happens to the money they give,' and how it it is almost impossible to keep up with the tributes to the general purpose of the organi- is spent. Double your offering by explaining requats from those who wish to hear more zation. your project. of the truth for this time. 11. Enthusiastically motivate the society Offerings should be counted immediately Daily attention should be given to the tract meeting by after the meeting and handed to the church rack to keep it neat, clean, and up-to-date. a. Putting novelty of approach and treasurer as soon as possible. The executive . Missionary Volunteers can share their faith variety into the activities which might committee, in harmony with instructions from in this quiet, effective way. , otherwise be commonplace and rou- the conference Missionary Volunteer secre- tine. tary, decides how the money is to be spent. b. Delegating certain responsibilities and May the giving of gifts to, God be intelli- the assignment of definite duties to gent, dignified, and indicative of good order A good idea is like a match. It is useless individual members. and careful planning. unless you strike it into flame.—Selected. Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 7. In Wartime To the Adventist Christian the blasts of war bring new tests and calls for increased devotion and sacrifices for our common heri; tage of liberty and freedom. It is here that Christian patriotism stands out in all its glory and splendor. Can the Christian stand by July 3 When there is a moral issue like the liquor idly when his country, with its free insti- traffic or wet and dry candidates before the tutions, is imperiled by a cruel and rapacious CHRISTIAN PATRIOTISM people, and you fold your hands and say enemy? Have we no stake, no responsibility By P. G. ASHEAUCH "What's the use?" instead of going to the when our sacred altars, our homes, and our polls, you are not obeying. God, you are not ORDER OF SERVICE loved ones are all threatened by a common honoring the king. ruin? Is our Constitution worth defending? SONG: "I Have Promised," No. 37 in nv. "And He saith unto them, Whose is this It is the most glorious document conceived Songs. image and superscription? They say unto by the mind of man. Would we see the stars PRAYER. Him, emsar's. Then saith He, unto them, and stripes lowered in ignominy and shame SECRETARY'S REPORT‘ Render therefore unto Cmsar the things and an alien banner put in its place? Any REPORTS OP MISSIONARY BANDS. red-blooded American would cry out, "A OFFERTORY. which are Cmsar's; and unto God the things ANNOUNCEMENTS. that are God's." Matthew 22: 20, 21. thousand times, no!" Here is where we need DUET: "My Daily Prayer," No. 22. This is a clear-cut pronouncement of the to keep close to God, to keep our balance, to LEADER'S INTRODUCTION: "Christian Patri- separation of church and state and the duty keep an even keel, to think calmly and otism." of Christian patriotism given long before the bravely. STUDY: "The Doctrine of Christian Patri- promulgation of the constitution of the United If the word of God applies to all men of otism." all nations, under all conditions, whether TALK: "Christian Patriotism in Wartime." States of America, where for the first time in the history of mankind this divinely inspired in peace or war (and-we believe it does), then TALK: "Christian Patriotism in Peacetime." there must be some way for the Christian to SONG: "Father, Lead Me Day by Day." No. principle was written into national law. serve his country and his Cod at the same 21. If this statement by our Lord, this glorious time. Our armed forces are divided into two BENEDICTION. principle and way of life, had been heeded sections called "services" and "arms." To have by the nations and the church, there would all arms without the services would be utterly have been no fires of Smithfield, no burning Christian Patriotism impossible and ruinous. The brave men of Huss and Jerome, no butcheries by the Christian patriotism is one of the great under arms would soon starve. There must be Duke of Alva, no St. Bartholomew Massacre, doctrines of the Bible. Christians are enjoined a Quartermaster Corps to feed and clothe the • no persecutions of the Vaudois, the Albigenses, to be mindful of their obligations to the state, men. There must be a Medical Corps to care or the Waldenses, no inquisition with its called in the Bible "the king," "eraser," for the sick and injured men. True, the arms rack and melted lead poured down throats. "the high powers," "the powers that be," section is more glamorous. The average Ameri, etc. It must follow, then that one who ne- Over 100,000,000 noble human beings can boy looks with disdain on the "pill rollers"; glects, ignores, or spurns the franchise (the would have been spared untold cruelties, suf- he says, "Me for the air force, the infantry, or right and duty to vote), or otherwise rejects ferings, and death. God's clear instruction regarding his duty to the tanks." But somebody must serve in the his country, is not wholly obedient; and con- But notice, please, the positive side. That Quartermaster and Medical corps and other sequently not the highest type of Christian. Caesar here means the civil government, no branches of noncombatant service. They are one questions; hence the clear teaching—give C To be a Christian is to be Christlike, to follow just as necessary in defending and preserving Christ in complete obedience, the essence of to the civil government what belongs to it. our liberties as any other branch of service, which is to love God with all the heart and If you do not receive this as a privilege, you glory or no glory. Here is where Christian patri- to love our neighbor as ourselves, must face it , as a command. God does not otism finds its opportunity. Here is where k intend that His people shall ignore their 'the problem of Sabbathkeeping can the most The Doctrine of Christian duties as citizen's in this world. In a democ- easily be solved. True, it takes more courage Patriotism racy every citizen has a responsibility which to turn down the' glamor and glory. It 'takes Let us look at the Bible doctrine of Chris- he ought not to shirk, neglect, or eVade. moral courage, especially when the tide is tian patriotism. One more important scripture will suffice running strongly the other way, but that is "Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. to make dear the Bible doctrine of ChriStian the difference between patriotism and Chris- Fear God. Honor the king." 1 Peter 2: 17. patriotism. (Read all seven verses of 'Romans tian patriotism. , We like most of this scripture. It is appropri- 13: 1-7.) Twelve thousand Adventist boys wrote a ate to honor all men for they are the purchase It is evident that God is not responsible for chapter in the last world war that can never price of the blood of Jesus Christ. To love every, tyrant that has appeared on the pages be forgotten. I am looking at the December, the brotherhood is a Well-known obligation of history—the Neros, the Hiders, the Tojos, 1945, issue of Snapshots from Life in the and conceded by all to be of paramount im- etc.—but God has ordained civil government Service. This number has some -real snap- portance. "Fear God, and give glory to Him." for--a purpose. It is an ordinance of God in shots in it. Here is a picture of, President Revelation 14: 7. "The fear of the Lord is its proper sphere and within its proper limits. Truman pinning the ,Congressional Medal • the beginning of wisdom." Psalm 111: 10. 'When government has tried to coerce men's of Honor on Desmond T. Doss, •the hero of There is no question about this; but what consciences and influence them to disobey a "Hacksaw Ridge." Next to him (in my Snap- about "honor the king?" Here the term "king" plain command of God, His servants have shots) is Vernon D. Reynolds—"We were seems to stand for country, or government. declared, "We ought to obey Cod rather than going over an exposed slope when scouts ▪ "Honor the king." Do your duty as a citizen. men" (Acts 5: 29), and God has' given His ahead were bit by machine-gun fire. - . . I Do not neglect this world while preparing approval of this course by performing miracles crept out to, administer aid." (Bronze Medal— for the next world. It may be a lot of bother. in support of opposition to civil government Dec. 1944, Germany.) "Pfc. Reynolds ▪ It may be a thankless task. You may con- when the civil goverrunent had wrongly advanced through fierce enemy fire to go to sider it hopeless and futile. But, remember, stepped into, the realm of religion. The case the aid of a wounded comrade." (Silver Star God is speaking. It is He who says, "Honor of Daniel in the lion's den and the three March 24, 1945.) Later he received the • the king." You do not honor the king, but missionary volunteers in the fiery furnace is Presidential Unit Citation and the Purple crooks, when you stay home on election day. proof of this. Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster. Then comes 8 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

Moises Gonzoles. "Exceptionally meritorious Notes LILA: (Tells story—"A Heroine in a Pagan conduct," add "keen presence of mind." (Leg- World." See Youthful Witnesses, by W. A. ion of Merit and Purple Heart.) He per- It would be well for the leader and all Spicer, pp. 29, 30.) : suaded twenty-five Nazi soldiers who had who take part in the program today to read Jortbr: Oh! Sometimes I wonder if I would carefully chapter 39, "The Time of Trouble," first captured him that their situation was stand if I had, to endure such in The Great Controversy. From their study suffering,be hopeless and marched them back, prisoners, of this chapter they may wish to enlarge RALPH: Well, we can't stand in our own -to the American lines. Next is Keith Ar- upon the dialogue. Help the youth to realize strength, but we can call upon the Lord to , graves the rugged paratrooper (Purple Heart; the importance of being ready today for help us. I think He must ,have given extra Presidential Citation) who suffered so much Christ's corning. strength for endurance to those who had in Italy; Byron H. Eller (Silver Star for to suffer so much. Gallantry in Action); Duane N. 'Unman Youthful Witnesses MURIEL: It seems to me that I read some- who saved a soldier's life near Metz, France, where that one of the martyrs who was being by cutting a slit in his throat; William J. PAST AND FUTURE burned at the stake was asked to raise his Shasky, India, China, Burma area with the hand if he could not feel the flames, and he SCENE: In the mountains, during the time held up his hand to the very end. Medical Air Evacuation Squadron (Bronze of trouble. If possible, an imitation campfire Medal scene should be arranged. Instead of chairS RALPH: That may be true, but I do not Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air think that we will be saved from all suffer- with Oak Leaf Cluster); Clinton Lyle, Hoot- for th,e participants to sit on, benches, covered with blankets, will lend to the general idea. ing, especially when our salvation cost so soh (Silver Star for rescue, work at Tarawa). much and caused, so much suffering to our These are but a few samples of , hundreds The group is seated around the campfire, gazing into the fire thoughtfully. Saviour. We ought to be glad and willing and hundreds who answered their country's Seven young people. to suffer for Him. CHARACTERS: I think it was not so much will call to service and reflected great credit upon RALPH: What are you thinking about so MARY: power or physical -courage that enabled men their country and upon their church. This is seriously, John? Christian patriotism in wartime, Christian Joribt: Oh, I was just thinking back over and women to stand through the trying hour. ' the things that have happened in the past They were so filled with a love for Christ patriotism in action to save life; Christian that they forgot their own suffering. patriotism at its best—a glorious chapter writ- few weeks. I remember bow we used to study form: Probably more good was done for - ten amid the freezing snows of Italy; the in our Bible classes about the time of trouble and how we would have to flee to the the cause by those who gave their lives than battle of 'the bulge in Belgium; the steaming, mountains, but somehow it never seemed real they could possibly have done if they had lived. For every Christian who gave his life, mosquito-infested, reeking, muddy jungles of —I just couldn't imagine what it would be the tropics—that will never be forgotten. many, many more were influenced to take like. their stand. Did you ever hear the story of MARY: That's right. Somehow I didn't realize that I would actually have a part in the forty wrestlers for Christ? In Peacetime some of those scenes. We used to study about, Munn: Let's hear it, John. the early Christians who had to flee to the Jonx: (Tells story of the "Forty Wrestlers • It goes without saying, that in peacetime for Christ.") (Then follows a moment of Christian patriotism will be demonstrated by mountains, but it just didn't seem that such a move would ever be necessary for us who thoughtful silence.) aloofness from and opposition to every sub- live today. I am sure I would have spent RALPH: Those men were really sure of versive element in our land, and to rackets more time. in studying the light given us on theirges faith, to be so willing to die. We and shady deals of every kind and descrip- the closing scenes if I had really believed haven't had to give up very much after all, tion; by obedience to our laws and active that it would come so soon. support of good government as well as active LILA: Over and over again we heard the LILA: No, we haven't. People have given ministers say that "the last movements will up just as much in war—their homes -have opposition to crooks, gamblers, the liquor been destroyed and all their earthly possess- traffic, and kindred evils. be rapid ones," and that certainly has been fulfilled. Why, it was just six weeks ago ions taken from them. It makes me think A Christian patriot will be a good neighbor, that we last met in the church for young of that song that says: kind, and thoughtful of others, ready to help people's meeting.' Were you there, Ned? "Am I a soldier of the cross, , in emergencies, alert to the first encroachment NED: Yes, and it was a wonderful meeting. A follower of the Lamb?" on civil and religious liberty, the first to We knew by that time that we would have I can't remember all of the' words, but the promote and encourage civic enterprise and to leave our homes and all that we had, and thought is that others have given up much when Elder James explained the ,seriousness more than we have. I wish you could hear community betterment. He will be as a rock the whole song. in a weary land—a man of honer, integrity, of the situation and what it would mean and Then asked for everyone to stand who, would Two (sing): "Am I a 'Soldier of the dependability, and trustworthiness—for the be willing to stand for the truth no matter Cross?" No. 356 in Church Hymnal. lack of which the world is perishing today. what happened why -I believe every single Nun: "I'll bear the toil, endure the pain, +++ person in the room stood. supported by Thy word."—How true that is. RALPH: I wonder where they all are to- If we did not have some of those wonderful July 10 night. promises in the Bible, and if we did not JOHN: We'll probably never-all be together know that our heavenly Father will keep YOUTHFUL WITNESSES again on this earth. His word and take care of us, then we would really be afraid. By B. W. MATTISON LILA: But won't we have a wonderful re- union in heaven, when we can meet all of MARY: I am so glad that we had to mem- ORDER OF SERVICE our friends again, and find out all the ex- orize some _of those verses in school. I used to hate to spend so much time learning SONG: "Dwelling in Beulah Land," No. 105 periences they have had. Songs. MARY: You know, I would like to meet memory verses, but now I see the purpose M.V. of it, PRAYER. some of those young 'people who lived back in the dark ages, who were tried for their RALPH: Just think what it must have been SECRETARY'S REPORT. like when people were not allowed to read the MISSIONARY REPORTS. faith and put to death—some of them. They really had courage. I'd like to talk with them Bible for themselves. OFFERTORY. NED: (Tells story of "William Hunter." SCRIPTURE: Daniel 3: 16-18; 6: 20-22; and hear their stories firsthand. Hebrews 11: 24-26, '32-40. RALPH: We can do that when we get to See Youthful Witnesses, by W. A. Spicer, pp. DuET: "The Journey's End;" No. 109. heaven. 87-91.) INTRODUCTION by Leader. LILA: I don't think we will have to go MURIEL: That is certainly a thrilling story CHORUS: "Traveling Home," No. 106. through the tortures that some of those early of courage, isn't it? And there are so many , DIALOGUE: "Youthful Witnesses—Past, and Christian youths endured. During the time stories just like that. Many had to give up Future." of pagan Rome the early believers really their lives for the sake of the gospel, but 'Duo: "Faith of Our Fathers," No. 50, or suffered for being Christians. Have you ever in many other cases' God, spared the lives of "When We All Get to Beak:en," No. 111. heard the story of Blandina? HiS children, and worked out deliverance for BENEDICTION. NED: No, tell us, Lila. them. I pray that we may betkept as faith- Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE,

ful as those faithful ones of other days. spot near a frozen lake • among the eternal William Brown Company, Dubuque, Iowa, MARY: Listen, I hear somebody coming! snows they were turned out into the wintry How to Know the Land Birds, How to Know RALPH: Who can it be? night to die of starvation, exposure, and cold. the Water Birds (In- preparation), How to (Silence, as all listen. Dick appears, with That night, as the chief of the guards Know the Spring Flowers, Plant Families— pack on back.) lay in his tent, he was roused by a chant How to Know Them, How' to 'Know the DICK: Hello, folks. I didn't scare you, did that was borne to his ears on the night winds. Insects. I? Listening, he heard, For eastern bird students: JOHN: We couldn't imagine who could be "Forty wrestlers, wrestling for Christ, Peterson, Roger Tory, Field Guide to the out here in this lonely place. Ask of Him the victory, and claim from Birds. (New York: Houghton Mifflin Com- DICK: I just came up from the valley, and Him the crown." pany, 1947.) things are really looking serious down there. Turning to his companion, the guard said, For western bird students: I left while it was still dark this morning "The devotion of these men to their leader is Hoffman, Ralph, Birds of the Pacific States. so no one would see me. The whole town amazing. I. tell you I know something about the (New York: Houghton Mifflin Company.) was in an uproar of excitement; in fact, it devotion of Roman soldiers to their emperor Booth, Ernest S., Birds of the West. (Ad- seems that the whole nation is on fire. They and empire. I have seen it on many a battle- dress the author, College Place, Washington: are really checking up to see that everyone field. But never in the breast of the bravest 1948.) is keeping the Sunday observance law. They Roman have I seen a devotion like this." are taking a census to find out just what Just then the flap of the tent opened and Nature Trails Lead to God church everyone belongs to, and making out a poor wretch, one of the wrestlers, stumbled In the heart of man there is a longing to some kind of certificate for all those who are in, fell on his knees before the guard, saying, worship something greater than himself. The obeying the law. The people have to carry "I give up Jesus; I recant; let me live." On heathen feel this need, -and not knowing their certificates with them at all times, and the night air came the chant again, but 'this God, they worship the works of God. Great must show them whenever they enter a time: mountains, rivers, giant trees, heavenly bodies, public building or buy a railroad ticket or "Thirty-nine wrestlers, wrestling for Christ, the sea—all have inspired pagan man with, a purchase anything at the stores. Our people Ask of Him the victory, and claim from sense of awe and fear, and in his blindness, he cannot possibly sign the statement that must Him the crown." has home his sacrifices to them. be sighed in order to secure the certificate. I The guard looked down with pity on the But how, much better it is when man knows hope all our church members have left the wretched deserter and Said, "Art thou the his Creator. (Read 'Psalm 121: 1, 2; 72: 3.) city by this time. - only one that, durst ask this of me?" Fortunate is the one whose trail leads into RALPH: Oh, I hope Bob and Clara got "The only one," answered the man. the mountains. There is little room on a away in time. They wanted to sell their Quickly tearing off his robe, the officer mountainside for anxiety and rush. house before they left. We tried to get them threw it over the shivering man, saying, "Then to come with us, but they did not seem to I will take, thy place." WHO KNOWS A, MOUNTAIN? see the need for haste. What is money in a He went out into the darkness of the night. time like this! In a few moments the chant again arose: "Who knows a mountain? Murnut: Sit down, Dick. We were just "Forty wrestlers, wrestling for Christ, -One who has gone going to have worship together. Ask of Him the victory, and claim from To salute its beauty JOHN: Ralph, you have a Bible, read us Him the crown." In the dawn; something. +++ One who has slept RALPH: What would you like to hear? On its breast at night; MARY: Why not read the forty-sixth Psalm? July 17 One who has measured RALPH: (Reads Psalm 46.) His strength to its height; NED: Thank God for the wonderful as- NATURE TRAILS LEAD surance of:protection! TO GOD One who has followed LILA: I was really frightened at Dick's BY FIIISST Boon: Its longest trail, ` And laughed in the face report; but 'I know that God will take care ORDER OF SERVICE of us. Of its fiercest gale; JOHN: You know, folks, it can't be long SONG: "This Is My Father's World," No. 646 One who has scaled its peaks, now. I wouldn't be surprised if some of us in Church Hymnal. And has trod would be called upon to face persecution and PRAYER. Its cloud-swept summits death as those young people we have talked REPORTS OF I.VhssIoNanv WORK. Alone with God." about tonight. (Others nod and say, "That's OFFERTORY. —ETHEL ROIVIIG, FULLER, in right.") I think we should pray about it, but SECRETARY'S REPORT. White Peaks and Green, first let me pledge myself before all of you, SONG: "Fairest Lord Jesus," No. 165. used by permission. that no matter what comes, no matter what READING: "Lessons from Nature." (See Coen- trial or persecution I may be called upon sets to Teachers, pp. 54, 55.) It was on a mountainside that Christ went to face, with the Lord's help, I will never READING: "Nature Trails Lead to Ged." (See to pray alone in the early dawn. To a moun- deny Him. Will you join me in this pledge? Notes.) tainside He gathered the multitudes and told ALL: Yes. I'm with you. We'll join you, NATURE Quiz. (See Notes.) , them to consider the lilies of the field. In a John. TALK: "On the Trail—Looking for Birds." hillside olive grove He went through His Jones: Let's all pray together. TALK: "Botany Trails." final struggle, and arose, strengthened by hea- (All kneel and -repeat Lord's prayer. As TALK: "Insects? Why Not?" venly messengers, to walk unflinchingly to prayer ends, trio sings.) PRESENTATION OF PLANS for future Nature Calvary's summit. So will the majesty of • Hikes, etc. , great mountains, their upright trees, the brave Sotsca "I Sing the Mighty Power," No. 93. alpine flowers, teach us of many things. Forty Wrestlers for Christ BENEDICTION. , And should your nature trail lead down to One day in the reign of Decius, a Roman the seashore,—there you will be reminded, emperor who hated the Christians, news came Notes to Leaders "The sea is His, and He made it." (Read to him that his gladiators, forty in all, had also Psalm 107: 23, 24.) accepted Christ and had openly professed READING: "Nature Trails Lead to God." But should your trail lead far from the their faith in Him and were leading many This would be effective if accompanied by ap- mountains, woods, and seas, you may still find. to follow them. The enraged emperor im- propriate koclachrome slides and a musical God in a garden, in a city park—wherever mediately gave orders: "Let these men be background. there is beauty, and a heart to see. transported to the loneliest spot on a frozen NATURE Qurz: The leader may read the lake of northern Armenia, and there, without true or false statement, get an oral response, "God is not far from any one of us. ' food, shelter, or clothing, let them die." then read the correct answer; or paper and The wild flower by the wayside speaks his When this cruel message was carried to pencils may be passed, the answers written. love; the gladiators, they said: "We will never and corrected at the end of the quiz. , Each singing bird bears tidings from above; deny Jesus, our Saviour." 'Guarded by a REFERENCES FOR further study: Sunshine and shower his tender mercies group of soldiers, they were transported to For beginners especially:, prove— northern Armenia, and there in the wildest Jacques, H. E., PicturedhKey Nature Serie s, And men know not his 'voice! July, 1948 10 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE

"God is not far from any one of us. On the Trail—Looking for Botany Traits He speaks to us in every glad sunrise; Birds Along any trail you may take this summer His glory floods us from the noonday skies; there will be so many kinds of wild plants The stars declare his love when daylight dies— Men have studied birds since time began, And men know not his voice! yet there is much about them that is a mystery. that you may become discouraged with the We can learn to recognize them by their thoughts of learning their names. Yet with a "God is not far from any one of us. colors, their flight, their songs and call notes; little effort and time it is not difficult to learn He watches o'er his children day and night; we may learn where they build their nests, to recognize every kind of wild flower in one's On every darkened soul he sheds his light; home locality. Try making a list of the plants Each burdened heart he cheers, and lends his how they rear their young, and where they spend the winter, but even then there is much you know, then write down a short description might of those you do not recognize. • to learn beyond this. One must experience the Ta all who know his voice." The next time you go out looking for —THOMAS CURTIS CLARK. thrill of discovering his first hermit thrush, Used by permission. his first Townsend's solitaire, his first creeper's flowers, take along one -or two good flower nest, in order to appreciate what it is that books. An inquiry addressed to the botany lures the bird student on in the study of birds. department of your state college or university Nature Quiz Migration is one of the fascinating mys- will give you the name of the best flora, as Answer true or false. teries of bird lore. Carefully trained ornitholo- such botany books are called, for your par- gists propose several possible explanations— ticular region. I. The Arctic Tern travels at least 25,000 So you may learn to recognize the various miles each year in its migration. yet no one knows why the birds leave their True. These birds are the world's great- breeding grounds in the late summer to fly plant families in your area. There are about est travelers. Their summer and winter south to spend the winter in Central or South 300 families of flowering plants in the world, homes are 11,000 miles apart, and they America. Most of the birds leave the north but only a few of these will be found near fly circuitously, following the sun in the while the weather is still very warm, and you. path of the greatest amount of daylight. while insects are abundant. Then they come But the study of plants is not merely the 2. All birds fly south when winter comes. back north before the weather is warm, and learning of names. You should find out a few False. Many birds (principally the seed- long before insects are abundant. So it does things about the lives of plants. Can you tell eating birds) are nonmigratory. not seem to be a sudden lack of food that what makes the sap of a tree stop flowing in 3. Birds have been clocked at speeds (nearing causes birds to migrate. It is certainly not the fall, and begin to flow again in spring? 180 miles an hour. cold weather, for they migrate during the hot Have you ever thought what makes sap flow True. The duck hawk claims the tide as part of the summer. Many birds remain in up the trunk of a tree, against the force of the world's fastest bird. Such high speeds gravity? Water will run only downhill— are not long maintained, however, but are the north in winter, but they are almost always reached when the bird is "power diving" seed-eating birds. Exceptions are the chicka- then why will water in a tree run up? Root at its prey. dees and nuthatches, insect-eating birds that hairs (the tiny hairlike branches on the 4. Male mallard and wood ducks always re- never mind the coldest weather in the north- smallest roots) absorb water from the soil. The tain their distinctive flashy plumage. ern states. water travels from cell to cell through tiny False. Many ducks, including mallards, Birds have an uncanny compass that steers pores in the cell walls until it reaches the wood ducks, gadwalls, shovellers, , and them in the right direction in order to reach center of the root, where a sort of water pipe, mergansers go through what is known as their destination. They are known, to return called a vessel, is found. This vessel is com- the "eclipse."Towards midsummer the to the same back yard to nest year after year, posed of a mass of-cells open at the ends so bright plumage of the drakes is shed and even though they have spent the winter in that water can flow freely up the stem. Water replaced for about two months by the Brazil. Our knowledge of migration has been enters the root hairs from the soil by a process more somber garb of the female. No one called osmosis. This means that if there is knows the reason for this phenomenon. gathered mainly from records of banded birds. less water inside the cell than there is in the 5. One never finds a song bird swimming in Small aluminum bands bearing serial numbers streams. are placed around the legs of birds by specially soil outside the cell, water will go through False. The water ouzel, or dipper, is cap- trained bird students. If a bird bearing such the cell wall into the cell., But that does not able both of excellent singing and of a band is found dead, the band or the num- say why the water goes up through the plant underwater locomotion. ber of the band is sent in to the Fish and Wild vessels. One group of botanists say that 6. Scientists have analyzed chlorophyl, the Life Service, Washington, D. C. There the leaves have a pulling power on, the water in green pigment in plants, and can now records will show where and when the bird the vessels, almost like a pump. You know artificially manufacture sugar from air, was banded. These data, with the information that you can pump water up out of a well water, and sunlight as can the green leaf. where it was found dead, often prove that because the pump causes suction in the pipes, False. Scientists have analyzed chlorophyl, birds travel thousands of miles in their migra-, and the suction is stronger than the pull of but they have not learned the green leaf's gravity. We may also say that the leaves pull secret process. tory journeys. ThouSands of years ago the Lord called at- water up the tree, for water is always evapor- 7. All conifers (cone-bearing trees) are ever- tention to the wandering of the birds. Read ating from the leaves through tiny pores, and green—that is, they retain their needles more water must be drawn into the leases through the winter. jOb 39: 26, and Jeremiah 8: 7. False. The tamarack, while a cone-bear- Keep a bird list every year, and see how from the stems of the plants, and that makes ing tree, sheds its needles every fall. each year's list exceeds the one before. It is still more water come up through the trunk 8. Bats are one of our most beneficial mam- possible, with a little traveling about the of the tree from the roots. mals. country, to average one different kind of bird This all sounds very well until someone True. As a mosquito control they rank for every day of the year. Binoculars will asks how the sap rises in early spring before high, eating great quantities on their help, and a good bird field guide is almost a the leaves come out on the tree. And bot- nightly flights. necessity. But most important are keen eyes anists do not have the answer to that question. 9. One can tell a poisonous mushroom be- and a genuine interest in birds. We can only say with Job, "Who knoweth cause it will always discolor a silver spoon. Sin has marred so much of what God not in all these that , the hand of the Lord , False. There is no such method for test- created—yet somehow the bird trail has a hath wrought this?" Job 12: 9. Some day ing poison qualities of mushrooms. The way of leading one back to the beginning of we may find out the answer, too. edible and the poisonous varieties should be thoroughly learned. things, when God was close by in the Edenic It is a good idea to make a plant collection. woods. And this is one hobby you may pur- You can learn the common flowers in your 10. There are at least three poisonous lizards in the United States. sue into the eternity of the new earth. In neighborhood, and also get your M.V. Honor False. There is only one poisonous lizard the study of birds, as in the study of any of at the same time. —the Gila (heel-la) Monster of the South- God's handiwork, we may "Look up through If your trails do not lead you into far west. Nature to Nature's God." fields, begin a collection of local plants. Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 11

grudging though it may be. And it is econo- blindly, and ever afterward have cause to Insects? Why Not? mically sound to learn which insects (there regret. Of course if one is to avoid having This is an age of insects—if numbers have are many) should be encouraged and pro- a home "where the shadows are never lifted," anything to do with it. These Sian creatures tected, and which (there are very many) he or she must marry one who is true to the number 1,500,000 kinds, All other animals should be destroyed by every means at hand. principles of the third angel's message. number only 200,000 kinds. Then, too, in- Wise Solomon was versed in natural lore— There are other altars to erect, but by sects are the most prolific of all animals, and you may be sure he found his wisdom making them a subject of prayer and study, often occurring by the billions in many parts along the nature taril. (Read 1 Kings 4: 33, and by basing them on the Bible and she of our country. 34.) Can we, thousands of years later, do principles of our faith, ood will open the You may have felt that insects were repul- better than to follow Ms example? Way and give a clear understanding to us of sive—perhaps even dangerous to man. Few ++1- what should be done. realize that the only dangerous insects are Let us not think of our present-day altars those which carry diseases—like house flies, July 24 as those made with hands. Cain and Abel mosquitoes, bedbugs, and biting flies. Many ALTARS IN THE LIFE erected identical altars, and each brought an insects are destructive to our crops, and we offering. Abel's offering was accepted, Cain's By 0. S. HERSHBERGER must spend millions of dollars every year to rejected. It was not the material altar that keep insect pests under control. But in spite ORDER OF SERVICE made the difference. It was the spirit of of all this, insects are a fascinating group to obedience that made Abel's offering accept- study. Most people call them bugs, but only Sobio: "My Jesus, I Love Thee," No. 43 in M.V. Songs. able. That spirit was his altar. The altars one small group of insects should be called PRAYERS: by three youth. erected in youth are the controlling influence bugs (this is the one to which the bedbug SECRETARY'S REPORT. in our destiny. and the bright-green plant bugs belong). REPORTS OE SERVICE BANDS . Other insects should be called by such names OFFERTORY. Biblical Altars as beetles, butterflies, moths, dragonflies, cad- ANNOUNCEMENTS. Notable altars in Biblical history include dis flies, bees, wasps, 'ants, earwigs, or what-, SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 29: 12-14 (first part). Joseph, who, when he was being taken into ever-it-is, but not bugs. SONG( "Living for Jesus," No. 32. Egypt by the band of slave traders, looked , The wasp-ant-bee family is the most in- TALK: "Kinds of Altars." into the distance and saw his father's tents telligen(of all insect families—if insects may TALK: "Biblical Altars." and purposed in his heart that the God of TALK: "Missionary Altars." his father would also be his God. be called intelligent. Some ants have been DUET: "Steady and True," No. 64. known to work out problems of simple kinds. TALK: "Present-Day Altars." "As the caravan journeyed southward to- For instance, Wheeler (the veteran ant stu- SONG: "I Have Promised," No. 37. ward the borders of Canaan, the boy could dent) observed an ant who wanted to get BENEDICTION. discern in the distance the hills among which across a crack in a porch of a house. The, lay his father's tents. Bitterly he wept at crack was too wide for the ant to step across, Kinds of Altars • thought of that loving 'father in his loneliness and it extended the full width of the porch. In speaking of altars one usually thinks and affliction.. Alone and friendless, After several trips along the full length of of raised structures or places where sacrifices what would be his lot in the strange land to the crack, the ant walked back over the porch are offered to a deity, but to the Christian which he was going? For a time, Joseph gave until it found a small stick. This it dragged there are invisible altars in each life which himself up to uncontrolled grief and terror.... to the crack, pushed it over the crack, then mean far more than a pile 'of bricks and "Then his thought turned to his father's walked calmly across to the other side. stones. Times of great decision for the right God. In his childhood he had been taught Ants are known to co-operate in work. A are mental and spiritual altars that rise far to love and fear him. Often in his father's group of leaf-cutting ants in the tropics will above anything material that could be built tent he had listened to the story of the vision climb a tree and chew off bits of leaves on this earth. These great monuments in the that Jacob saw as he fled from his home an which fall to the ground. Other ants on the life which reach to heaven itself leave the exile and a' fugitive. He had been told of ground carry these to underground passages modern towers of Babel far below in real the Lord's promises to Jacob, and how they where mold grows on the leaf fragments. The values. had been fulfilled,—how, in the hour of, need, the angels of God had come to instruct, com- ants feed, then, upon the mold. The worth-while altars include a decision fort, and protect him. And he had learned Wasps live interesting lives. Some are soli- for Christ, as at baptism, a step which forti- of the love of God in providing for men a tary, but many live in colonies. Ode type of fies the youth to build other altars for God Redeemer. Now all these precious lessons wasp catches spiders, stings them carefully, and which acts as an anchor in times of came vividly before him. Joseph believed not injecting too much poison, but just temptation. enough to paralyze the spider so it cannot that the God of his fathers would be his The decision to obtain a' Christian educa- get away. The wasp then lays an egg on the God. He then and there gave himself fully tion is a very important aliar to erect, and of back of the spider. When the wasp egg to the Lord, and he prayed that the Keeper course it should be backed with the right c hatches, the young wasp larva has fresh of Israel Would be with him in the land of course of action—determination to succeed in meat to eat, for the spider, although para- his exile."—Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 213, spite of obstacles, and the ability to endure lyzed, is still alive. The young wasp grows 214. until the goal is reached. ' better on fresh food than it would on a dead Then and there Joseph built the first altar spider. Making the right decision in one's life of strength, adding successive ones until God's If you have some friend who keeps honey calling is of great consequence, ,as choosing people. were rescued and preserved from star- bees, you will find him glad to help you the right avenue of work means the difference vation in the well-favored land of Goshen. learn about them. Their organization within between making one's lifework a joy or a the hive leaves nothing to be desired. Their drudgery. It also means a life of Christian Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, the ceaseless activity in their appointed duties is service, and persons won to eternal life. three Hebrew worthies, were young men of amazing. And the results of their labors are Choosing a life mate, or erecting the mar- sterlingccharacter who, were faced with a great, indeed helpful to the colony, and pleasing riage altar, is no small responsibility. It is high, golden altar of this world, but, they to their human friends. extremely important to make a wise choice of refused 'to worship the idol and were not The natural world is not as it came from a companion, as one or the other of the con- overcome by the fiery furnace in which they the hand of the Creator. The great con- tracting parties can either make or break the were placed. Their fidelity to their God troversy has its echoes even in the insect home. It is therefore necessary to study di- proved to be a greater altar than the imposing world. But the amazing adaptability of the ligently the counsel given in the Bible and structure which they faced. small creatures as they struggle to survive in the Spirit of prophecy in regard to marriage, "Forgotten was the great golden image, a hostile world fills one with admiration— so that a person will not choose a life partner set up with such pomp. In the presence of THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

the living God, men feared and trembled'. he was ever setting up Worthy altars for God, the young man and asked him to come home 'Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, as is apparent from these last words that .he for a visit, but warned him not to say any- and Abednego,' the humbled king was con- wrote on his last but one birthday: "My thing about his. new religion. He was only strained to acknowledge."—Prophets and birthday!' My Jesus, my king, my life, my all. too happy to 'accept this invitation, and en- Kings, p. 510. I again dedicate my whole self to Thee. joyed the visit very much. Nothing was said Christ walked with them in the fire, and Accept me and grant, 0 gracious Father, that about religion during the time of the first or as a result they were not burned; and He will ere this year is gone, I may finish my work. second visits. The new religion was never walk with us today through the "fiery fur- In Jesus' name I ask it." mentioned, but later on the family began to nace" of our greatest temptations if we will He was born of hardy Scotch stock. His ask questions. All questions were answered but call upon Him in our hour of trial. was a good heritage from Christian parents from the Bible, but nothing more said except and grandparents. He accepted this respon- to answer the questions. Esther, although she was the greatest queen sibility through life, and from time to time As time went on the mother became more ' in the world, did not forget to honor her gave definite evidence of Christian honesty and more interested, and finally accepted the God and her people, but risked her life in and integrity, all of which added to his own message for theser last days., The' young man going before the king, saying, "If I perish, Christian influence, and power. His early life is now a worker for the Lord., I perish." She and her maidens fasted and was marked with difficulties and trials, but, prayed, and the source of her strength is the better still, marked with overcoming. In a large church a few years ago the source of our help today if we will call upon When a young man, David Livingstone young people were given to attending thea- God. The altar she erected saved the Jewish decided to go to China as a missionary. How- ters. In many cases the parents took she people from the, wicked hands of those who ever, just at that time the Opium War children. One day after a sermon a girl, would have destroyed the nation. made it impossible for him to go. While wait- fourteen years of age who had not yet been "There is earnest work .to be done irt this ing for an opportunity to go to China, he baptized was convicted, 'of the fact that the age, and parents should educate their children heard Robert Moffat make the statement that theater is no place for Seventh-day Adventists. to share in it. The words of Mordecai to in Africa he could stand on the hill and see That Saturday evening when the family was Esther May apply to the men and youth of the smoke of a thousand villages untouched preparing to go to the theater, she told them today: 'Who knoweth whether thou art come by Christian influence. that she was not going. They wanted to to the kingdom for such a time as this?'"— This was a mighty challenge to David know why, and she gave her reasons. They, Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 321. Livingstone, and he immediately offered his just smiled and said, "You will soon get services for Africa, He built an altar and over this." Missionary Altars decided to' give his life to this great, needy As time went on, though, the girl refused field: No other man ever had so much ma- steadfastly to attend the theater. After a few Robert Moffat when a boy was the only terial and spiritual influence over the people weeks the father's conscience began, to bother convert of the year in a little church in Eng- of Africa .as David Livingstone. him, and he had another talk with his daugh- , land many years ago. The deacon of the ter. After this visit he, also, decided never church bitterly reproached the minister for Another missionary who erected most of to attend the theater again. The Spirit of having no more converts, and Robert Moffat, his altars through prayer, influencing a num- God kept working with the family, and finally though only a boy, was so filled with loving ber Of great leaders, accomplished a wonder- every member quit attending the theater. sympathy for the old pastor because of his ful work fog the Indians of America—David The influence of this girl kept working sorrow that he went 'to him, laid his hand on Brainerd. Impressively one person wrote of in the church until every young person quit his black gown, and said, "Do you think if, hinsas follows: going to the movies. This young lady had I were willing to work hard for an education, "Now that man did his greatest work by erected her altar, and the influence was felt I could ever become a preacher?" prayer. He was in ,the depths of those forests throughout the _whole church. "A preacher?" alone, unable to speak the language of the "Perhaps a missionary." Indians, so he spent whole days in praying that Another young lady erected her altar, There was a long pause. Tears filled the the power of the Holy Ghost might come upon and its influence changed the life of a certain eyes of the old minister. At length he said, him so unmistakably that these people would young man. She did not know about the "This heals the ache _in my heart, Robert. not be able to stand before him. struggle that was taking place in his heart. I see the divine hand now. May God bless "That man prayed in secret in the forest, This young man had inherited- a strong pas- you, my boy. Yes, I think you 'will become and a little while after, William Carey read sion for liquor. Here is his story: "One a preacher." his life, and he was so moved by it that he evening not long ago at a banquet where Some years later there returned to London went to India. Henry Martyn read his life, wine was served, I came very near breaking from Africa an aged missionary. The fol- and by its impulse he went to India. Payson my pledge. The smell of wine was so tempt- lowing was written of him: "When he went read it, as a young man of twenty years, and ing that I could hardly resist. But just as I into an assembly, the people rose; when he he said he had never been so impressed by was about to yield, I heard ,a young lady spoke in public, there was a deep silence. anything in his life as by that story. Murray say, 'No, thank you.' This gave me courage. ' Princes stood uncovered before him; nobles McCheyne read it, and was powerfully moved. I watched her all the evening, and said to invited him to their homes. He had added a "The hidden - life, a life whose days are myself, 'If she drinks, I will.' I was hoping, province to the church of Christ on earth, spent in communion with God in trying to yet fearing, that she would, but as often as had brought under the gospel influence the reach the Source of power, is the life that she was asked, she refused; and so, un- most savage of African chiefs, had given the - moves the world." known to her, she pulled me through." Chris- translated Bible to strange tribes, had honored tian, walk carefully. The, altar in your life the humble place. of his birth, the Scottish Present-Day Altars is having its influence. kirk, the United Kingdom, and the universal A young man of eighteen became in- missionary cause." Yes, the one convert who terested in the third angel's message and de- Altars in the life? Yes! we erect altars made his decision to dedicate his life to God cided to be baptized. When his parents for Christ by our decisions to, accept baptism, proved to be one of the greatest missionary learned of this, they ordered him to leave to obtain a Christian education, to choose a altars ever erected. home and never return. It was quite a trial lifework which will tell for Christ, to choose for the boy, but after much prayer and Bible a mate who is true to the principles of the The heroic spirit animated the belief of study he decided to follow the teachings of third angel's message, to live a daily life true David Livingstone, famous pioneer missionary the Bible, and he erected his 'altar accordingly. to the Lord. As we take a retrospective view to Africa. His life was inspired by a great He was baptized and joined the church, of our lives and look toward the future, let purpose—to honor God, to bless his fellow but was completely cut off from his family: us determine that we shall dedicate ourselves men. From his earliest years to his last act However, after a few years the mother wrote anew to erecting altars of lasting importance. Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 13

Our Flag We hail our flag of liberty! Its folds in hues resplendent spread; The blue for truth and loyalty, The crimson red for blood we shed, The spotless white for purity. '

banana peels, paper; and litter in the school Our flag has never known defeat. July 3 yard, in public parks or streets, or around Its staff e'er stands on holy ground; - A J.M.V. IS PATRIOTIC home. They prohibit the breaking of shrub- Its cause is just, its mission meet. bery or railings guarding public or private Its principles of right are sound, By IVIARJORIE WEST MARSH property; the' writing or carving of letters on Its every star with hope replete. ORDER OF SERVICE seats, walls, and public places. They cause us to think of others and to try to be more Thank God, this flag, in every clime, SONG: "True-Hearted, Whole-Hearted," No. helpful and kind to them, radiating cheer, Upholds the right, condemns the 51 in M.V. Songs. giving aid to those in real want, being friendly wrong, PRAYER. with foreign-speaking people who need friend- Sustains the just, denounces crime, ANNOUNCEMENTS. ship, and so- demonstrating in a practical way Defends the weak against the strong, REPORTS. that we are devoted' to the welfare of our Its purpose high, its aim sublime. OPPERTORY. country. SONG: "How Betsy Made the Flag," No. 175. Draw from the Juniors further suggestions. Long may it wave o'er our fair land, POEM: "Our. Flag.' , Odd jobs—what Junior boy would not like A diadem of stainless fame; DRILL: "Flag Etiquette." (See Notes.) to be able to repair mechanical appliances, Fit symbol of our freedom grand, STUDY: "The Loyal Citizen." to use a hammer and saw in altering and For aye aglow with glory s fame, Tax: "What is Patriotism?" making things about a house? Why not learn Securely held in Cod's own hand. POEM: "True Patriotism." to do so riow? —C. S. LONGACRE. TALK • "Heroes." What Junior girl would not like to be POEM: "Soldiers of the Everyday." able to cook a balanced meal? Though they What Is Patriotism? DISCUSSION: "How Can I Be Patriotic and may not learn the specific calories or vitamins Loyal?" (See Notes.) in each serving of food, girls can easily, learn Patriotism is a much bigger thing than Sorro: "America," No. 172, or "God Save the composition' of balanced meals and the cheering when the flag goes by, standing up the King," No. 173. preparation of tasty foods. when the national air is played, applauding BENEDICTION. During vacation time,. and also after school a speaker, boasting of the battles your country hours, girls can help care for the younger has won, or bragging about its greatness. members of the family and for the neigh- Notes to Superintendents It is, right for you to thrill over the great bors' children while the mothers are busy. ,We hope through the topic today to help What a thrill for. a Junior to wear a dress deeds of, your great men. It is right, too, the Juniors understand what is true great- she herself has created! And what a greater that you should take a proper pride in your ness, and inspire them to build into their lives thrill to make over' or alter clothes so that country's resources and greatness. those qualities which will make them truly they may do further duty and still be at- But real patriotism goes deeper than these great. tractive. things. It begins 'when in your heart you DRILL: "Flag Etiquette."—Public School Laundry work and housekeeping will ap- resolve to be a worthy citizen of your country. peal to girls also. The patriotic Junior girl Law No. 623, which codifies the rules and It begins, too, with a loyalty to home, rela- customs pertaining to the display and use of will delight in assisting mother in this ne- the flag of the United States, of America, an cessary work. tives; and friends; with a clean life, and a action of the Senate and House of Represen- Juniors can be helpful in saving steps for resolute purpose to be true, kind, and honest ' tatives of the Seventy-seventh Congress, may adults, in carrying messages and parcels. in your personal dealings with others. be secured free by addressing the Document A well-planned, well-cultivated garden can To love your country so intensely that Room, House of Representatives, Washington, accomplish several things: give Juniors joy in you crave for her the highest ideals, the learning about growing things—and earn a noblest purposes, the best good for all her Discussropt: "How Can I Be Patriotic and Vocational Honor, by the way—help supply people—that is real patriotism.—Selented. Loyal?"—Discuss with the Juniors patriotism food the nation is needing, and free adults and loyalty to country. What can Juniors to do things which Juniors cannot do. do to show their loyalty?, How can they be It is a patriotic duty for Juniors to learn True Patriotism of the greatest help to their country? to earn, to save,, to spend wisely. Who loves his country will not rest Among the ruins of Pompeii was found The' boys and girls will suggest other Content with vow and pledge alone, the body of a Roman sentry at the city gate, specific duties they can' perform. Urge them But flies her banner in-his breast where he had been stationed by his captain, to carry conscientiously their end of the load, his hands still grasping his weapon. There, as loyal citizens and Christians. And counts her destiny his own; while the heavens threatened, the earth shook, Not only when the bugle plays and the 'floods of cinders and ashes over- Stands forth to give his life for her, whelmed him, he had stood by his post; and The Loyal Citizen But on the field of common days there, after a thousand years, he was found. Is strong to live his life for her. 1. While our 'first duty is to God, our Juniors may not be called to show their He is not satisfied to claim second is toward our fellow men. (Matthew loyalty to their country in this manner, but As heritage her power and fame, daily they are called upon to show respect 22: 37-39.) But striving, earns the right to wear for that which represents the country—the 2. Christians are to give loyal, patriotic country's flag, the country's ruler, etc.—to obedience to civil government: (Matthew 22: The shining honor of her name. exercise their liberty so that it will not inter- 17-21; Romans 13: 1.) —Author Unknown, fere with the liberty of another, and to be 3. Paul appreciated his privileges as a citi- faithful in their personal duties and loyal to zen, as well as his duties. (Acts 22: 25; Heroes public rights. 21:39.) Teach the juniors not to be troubled if We sometimes think that heroes are found 4. The way to honor one's country best they do not have a chance to show their is to live each day a life that honors its only in the ranks of the armies. But in addi- loyalty in some spectacular way. God made ideals and its laws. (Romans 12.) tion to the brave soldiers who are loyally millions of spires of grass where He made one 5. Paul emphasized our obligation toward defending their country, and those who are tree. The earth is fringed and carpeted, not helping to care for the sick and the wounded with forests, but with grasses. Be sure there civil rulers. (Romans 13: 7.) are enough of the little virtues in the life. 6. We are asked to pray for the rulers of wherever they may be, there are quiet heroes Small duties of patriotism forbid leaving nations. (I Timothy 2: 1-3.) who do noble deeds from day to day and who 14 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948 show bravery and loyalty to their trust in definite to them. That is the Only way by will scoff at us, and even the laws of the times of danger at home. which they will be interested in actually pre- land may try to force us to do things we A great flood threatened to submerge a paring for the time of trouble that we believe shouldn't do. whole town. The telephone operator stayed to be startlingly 'near. We advise that sym- But we will be distressed because we never pathetic Senior Missionary Volunteers give knew befOre what it felt like not to have at her post bravely, telephoning to everyone these talks, or that the superintendent study to flee to the, hills to safety, while the waters with any of the older Juniors who may give God's presence. We will wonden if He really rose and her own chances of escaping death them. does love us after all: We will be troubled for grew smaller and smaller. She was a heroine, The points brought out in the program fear we have not asked Him to forgive us for though she wore no armor and fired no gun. should be written plainly on a blackboard all the wrong things we have done or for She was loyal to her townspeople. or shown on posters as they are mentioned the good things we have forgotten to do, A colored boy ran his car up and down by each speaker. since we know we cannot pass the final Close the meeting with an open discussion examination if we have hid any sins and not the elevator shaft in a burning building at of the points, asking the Juniors to suggest the risk of his own life, in order to save others, and answering their questions. told the Lord we are sorry for them. those who were trapped by the flames in Mit The difference between those who pass upper story. He was a hero, though he never and those who do not pass, is simply the dif- carried a flag nor received a medal. The School of Life ference between those who are good and those A J.M.V., also, is brave and loyal and Willingly or unwillingly, we are all students who are bad—those who love God and desire patriotic at all times. in the school of life. That we cannot help, to do right, and those who love to have their for we are here. The good and wise students own way better than God's way. will have their reward, and the lazy and care- This examination is the last chance to pass Soldiers of the Everyday that will ever be given us in the school of The soldiers of the everyday less ones will have theirs; but the rewards will be different. life. If we do not pass it, we will have failed Who stand for honor and fair play, forever. So today we shall talk about a few Who never whine and never shirk, Our world is nearing the 'time when all Who do riot grumble as they work, living people will be tested on what they things that go into the make-up of one 'who Who seldom talk of recompense, have learned and on how they have made use will be good. Many colleges and universities require Are patriots—in every sense. of it. The test is called the "time of trduble." (Read Daniel 12: 1.) If all of us are alive that students who wish to attend their classes Though times be hard, though hours first take what are called "entrance examina- be gray, when it comes, we shall have IO be tested; These soldiers of the everyday and it will be a harder examination than any tions." Those who pass successfully may enter Still dare to smile and dream and sing, we have had in grammar or in arithmetic. the college and study whatever they wish. Let Accepting what the hours may bring Because the test is going to be hard, and us think of the time of trouble as being not With gratitude instead of tears, only our final examinations here, but our With words of hope instead of fears. because no one knows how soon it will come, we should think about what we must do to entrance examinations to God's university of Their battlefields are homes and streets, be ready for it at any time—as we study arith- heaven. Their victories and their defeats metic every day to be ready for the examina- Are seldom recognized or known, tion we know our teacher has in store for us. And yet they do not fight alone, Course of Study Ask God to bless them when, you pray, We do know, though, that the time for These soldiers of the everyday. our last test is not fad away. When Jesus was I. Daily Christianity —Author Unknown. here on earth and talked with His disciples Do you remember the first thing you +++ about His return in the future, He told them learned to do when you started to school, July 10 that certain happenings in nature and in the the one thing without which you could actions of people would be signs that His scarcely learn to do much else in school? To PREPARING FOR THE second coming was to be soon. He said also read. FINAL TEST -that if we were not careful we would be so Unless you make being 4 Christian every By IDA LOUISE WILLSON interested in other things—unimportant ones day your first study, you'll never be able to ' —that we would not be ready to pass our test. ORDER OF SERVICE learn anything else. You must learn it as Every day we are having little tests over SONG: "Can He count on You?' No. 49 in you do your grammar, reading, and English. the ground we have covered so far in life. Having in your heart the desire to be a M.V. Songs. But our last, and by far the hardest, exami- PRAYER.. Christian every day, from the time you awake REPORTS 014 MISSIONARY WORK. nation in the school of life will come just till the time you sleep, is accomplishing the- SECRETARY'S RIIPORT. before Jesus returns to the earth again, for task of being a proficient reader. If you can OFFERTORY. When He comes this time, He is going to understand well what you read, you can I ANNOUNCEMENTS. take away with Him those who have passed. study other subjects that you like and can SONG: "Father, Lead Me Day by Day," What makes this time of trouble, or the read interesting books. Just so, if you make No. 21. examination, so hard for us is that what is SUPERINTENDENT'S Tax:xi "The School of it your habit to be a Christian in the best called "the presence of God" will not be in way you know, every day, you will soon be Life." our world. That presence is really God's TALK: "Daily Christianity: interested in studying other subjects in God's TALK: "Character Development" own Power that He sends to help us to be course that will qualify you to pass the ex- Tax: "Laboratory,Studies." kind when we are unkind, thoughtful when aminations of the time of trouble. TALK: "Loyalty." we are careless, cheery when we are dis- When you have learned a few words, you DISCUSSION. appointed, patient when we think we ought do not stop reading. You keep reading all SONG: "Like Jesus," No. 76. to have something different from what we the time you are learning other things. So BENEDICTION. really got, helpful when we feel lazy or tired. you must keep on being a Christian all the When the time of trouble comes, God's Power time you are branching out. Notes to Superintendents won't be here to help us be kind, thought- Be sure that those who 'talk to the Juniors ful, cheery, patient, helpful; for, He is going II. Character Development today study "The Time of Trouble," chapter to give Satan a chance to tempt us extremely thirty-nine of The Great Controversy, in order hard, in order to prove to Satan that we do 1. DETERMINATION AND FIRMNESS— to present this program in the light of what is given there. The talks should be reduced love God and that we are so in the habit of While you are learning to be a Christian to the terms of the Juniors in your society doing what God wants us to do that we won't every day, you will soon find that you will so that they will feel the subject is something do anything else, though many, many people bailie to study other subjects (that is, develop Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE -15

definite habits -of good character) in order to nor sing a tune correctly. But they all can done wrong and must be forgiven. When the make progress. One of the best things to study so that they know how things are time of trouble comes and God is allowing study early is mental arithmetic, a subject drawn, how music is made, and which paint- Satan to tempt you, the records of heaven will which keeps you awake and alert. ings and music are roost beautiful. They have been checked already and it will have What is Meant by this is that you must may even learn to draw simple things care- been decided whether you shall have eternal study how to be determined and firm—con- fully or perform 'on some instrument or sing life or shall die with the wicked. If you have scious of your own faults and alert to over- a little. confessed every wrong thing you have done, come them. It takes real determination and ' Not every one has the gift, of self-denial. it will have been blotted out of heaven's , ' wide-awakeness to be a Christian all the time, Many people dislike to deny themselves any- record, marked "forgiven," and no matter how to admit you're wrong sometimes, to keep thing they feel they need. (That was one Satan will tempt you, that record will stand. yourself from forgetting that you weren't going thing wrong with Satan in the beginning, But it will then be too late for any more sins to say mean things about anybody, to deter- you remember. He felt he had to be every- to be forgiven. The time for repenting will mine that you were going to be a good sport, thing that was important and beautiful in be past. God is now giving you time to say to be honest, be respectful to your mother heaven. He wasn't going to deny himself you are sorry, to ask Him to forgive you, and and father. You have to be wide awake and any whim that entered his head. He brooded then, by His help,/ to, do better. determined to remember. to ,pray and read on sinful thoughts until his sinfulness, showed OBEDIENCEIE0 COMMANDMENTS— itself to the other beings in heaven, as sin- your Bible; for Satan's best success isn't al- This is your arithmetic or algebra lesson. ways in making you think you hate to be fulness will , always eventually show itself, no matter how cleverly one tries, to hide it.) You know you can work no problems unless good, but in making you. forget to try. You you follow the rules for multiplication, divi- may need determination to keep from look- But you can learn to deny yoUrself. The best way to do it is to take yourself by the shoulder sion, addition, and subtraction. They are ing at somebody else's problem in arithmetic, iron rules. especially if it is a hard, interest problem, and say, "Look here! You mustn't be a spoiled child. You are going to learn to be The commandments are iron rules for or algebra. If you are determined to be a Christians in working their dailyliving prob- ' Christian, you'll scorn being the kind of per- happy and good and useful." Mrs. White wrote that those who are un- lems. In order for you to pass the test .. son who looks at others' grammar lessons of the time of trouble, your record will have willing to deny themselves and to pray long while he writes his own; you'll scorn copying to show that you have worked your problems and earnestly for God's blessing, will not somebody's lesson, or even a little part of it. by the rules given you. Otherwise they will obtain it. "Angels- record every prayer that is You'll scorn being a coward. You'll want to have been worked wrong. stand on your own ability. earnest and sincere. . . The deepest poverty, Juniors, when you come to the time of the greatest self-denial, with His [God's} ap- 3. WORKING FOR GOD— trouble, when all the world will hate the few proval, is better than riches, honors, ease, This laboratory experiment is one which who love Jesus Christ and obey Him, there and friendship without it."—The Great Con- you will have to perform before you can will be nobody to help you then. What you troversy, p. 622. pass the test of the time of trouble. Unless 'have already done for yourself will be all that you learn to help your friends and family, counts for you. If you have thoughtfully, III. Laboratory Studies you will not be eligible for heaven, for no earnestly, and determinedly learned to be the If you have studied cooking, sewing, book- one enters there who has not helped some one best kind of Christian possible, and to be keeping, agriculture, or woodworking, you find Christ. In the time of trouble Christians brave and to have faith, you will not have know that you must do laboratory work in will reproach themselves because they. have to worry abocit the time of trouble. these classes. In cooking you must actually not done more to help others, because they cook certain things in a prescribed way; in do not have more power against Satan's 2. CONFIDENCE AND FAITH— sewing you must cut and finish MI article of forces. .tlf they had worked more to help Here is another subject in our course of clothing; in bookkeeping you must actually their friends to be Christians, there would study that is going to prepare us to pass the have record books and learn where to enter not be so many in Satan's army to use their rests of the time of trouble. This is like the all sorts of business items; in agriculture you strength against God's people. study of hitory, which is really a study of the must learn about soil and seeds and actually past experiences of men and nations. We shall raise something; in woodworking you must need to have practice and exercise—past ex- handle and use tools to make things. Loyalty perience—in the study of faith. I. CONFESSING SINS— If some one accuses your chum of lying If you do not understand how to have faith, Christians have laboratory studies too. One or stealing or cheating, you quickly defend begin now,. Juniors, to learn. If you know of the most importmit of these is being sorry him or try to proite the accusation unjust. you are a Christian, know, too, that if you for, the wrong things you do and asking God Thus you show your loyalty to some, one you obey Cod and feel He is your friend, you to forgive you. This is like studying geo- like. Some one—Satan—has accused God of will rely on Him to take care of you, to teach graphy, the subject that teaches you where being cruel, domineering, and merciless. you more about faith, and to help you be you are in the world in relation to other Does it not arouse your loyalty to God to have thoughtful and pleasant to every one. If things. `Having God fOrgive you is assuring one tell untruths about Him? Satan always things happen to you that seem unpleasant you of what your standing is in the record says sneeringly—though he is so deceitful or unjust, remember that God allows troubles books of heaven, for no one will be allowed he never lets you coo him sneer—"All right; in order that you may learn to be patient-- in heaven who has a single unconfessed sin. prove it! Just prove that God is just or kind not complaining, to be trusting—not always Confessing sin is not a matter of God's or merciful!" Juniors; that is what you can getting discouraged and giving up trying. forcing you to do something unpleasant be- do every day of your life by being Christians. This is faith. cause He thinks you should. It is a sign Do not look to the time of trouble too, much that you recognize you have thoughtlessly as 'a time of misery. To be sure, we need to 3. SELF-DENIAL— or willfully done something you realize isn't look forward anxiously. But be intent on Self-denial is one , of the little extras we good and kind and Christlike; that, you are your studies in the school of life, for by learn- sometimes study that we do not always think sorry; that you want God and your friends ing them well you do two things: (1) You necessary—like drawing and music. But it is' to help you do better. show to every one that you are a partner of one of the things that go into the makeup of When Jacob wrestled that night with the Cod in helping to prove to the universe that the best Christians, as music is one of the things Angel and would not let Him go, it was be- He is everything true and good and powerful; well-educated people learn to appreciate. cause Jacob had been worrying for years about and (2) thereby you fit yourselves to pass Not every one has the gift of music or stealing the birthright from Esau. He wasn't your final examination—the entrance examina- drawing. Some people simply cannot draw, sure he, was forgiven, .and he knew he had tion to the university of heaven. 16 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

to make a study of the trees of the Bible. to perform. The tree lives because each part July 17 Ask several Juniors to prepare for this. A does its share. The tree illustrates the law of THE LANGUAGE OF THE concordance will help you to locate passages growth. It is always growing. When it in addition to the ones you can remember. ceases to grow it is because the tree is dead. TREES In addition to this you may suggest to the The tree serves. It is always useful to others. By hunts WALKER Juniors that there are many ways in which Even thousands of years after its death, it trees make this world more beautiful. Help yields its stored-up warmth in coal., If it is ORDER OF SERVICE them to discover for themselves that their deeply rooted and its branches are evenly beauty lies in their different, interesting, and balanced, it can stand before the winds of OPENING Sown: "0 Forest Fair!" No. 136 lovely shapes, in the shadows they throw in the adversity. It may bend, but it will not break. in M.V. Songs. sunlight, in the coolness of the shade they God has placed the trees upon this earth ANNOUNCEMENTS • make, in the noises of their, branches bending for our benefit and enjoyment. We can help REPORTS. in the wind, in the music of the birds whose our Juniors to recognize all these benefits. OPPERTORY. nests are in their branches. - They can do this only by becoming thoroughly SCRIPTURE: Psalm 1. (Discuss freely the The tree illuswates God's law of , co-opera- acquainted with the trees about them. meaning of verse 3.) tion. Each part of the tree has a special task —C. LESTER BOND. PRAYER. SONG: "Trees," by Joyce Kilmer. STORY: "What Tree Is That?" What the Trees Teach What Tree Is That? POEM: "Tree Pals." SONG; "Under the Trees," No. 145. (Exercise for 14 Juniors) It had been a rainy week, .but now Sabbath DIALOGUE: "Friends." had come and the sun was shining. In the EXERCISE: "What the Trees Teach." 1. I am taught by the Oak to be rugged and afternoon the whole family of the Browns strong , ILLUSTRATED TALK: "Bible Trees." went for a long walk-in the woods. They Ponce: "A Prayer." In defense of the right; in defiance of SONG: "Come, Walk with Me the Woodland wrong. found gay-colored toadstool's and marvelous spider webs, hung with drops of water like Trail," No. 157. Maple that beauty, BENEDICTION. 2.1 have learned from the jewels, arid some early spring flowers. When to win they sat down on ati old log to rest, John The love of all hearts, must have sweet- Notes to Superintendents ness within. said, "Daddy, you know so much about trees. How 'can you tell them apart?" The topic today is designed to help our 3. The Beech, with its branches wide spread- Juniors get acquainted with the trees—not "Well, son," said daddy, "there are a few ing and low, simple things that would help you if you only the trees of their locality but also the Awakes in my heart hospitality's glow. trees of other parts of the world, and the knew them: I will now tell you these, and trees of the Bible—and to learn lessons which 4. The Pine tells of constancy. In its sweet if you learn them I'll teach you more later." they tell us. i voice The boys were quiet at once, AN OUTING AMONG THE TREES It whispers of hope fill sad mortals rejoice. All boys and girls who live in or near the, "First," said daddy, "think of the oaks. country find one of their most cherished re- 5. The nut-bearing trees teach that 'neath All oaks haute acorns. You can usually find creations in exploring the forest. We hope manners gruff a few about in spite of the squirrels. Their you can arrange a time this summer to take May be found as "sweet kernels" as in leaves all have one big main rib down the your Juniors to various places where they their caskets rough. center. The outside of the leaf has different may become acquainted with their ' tree 6. The Birch, in its wrappings of silvery gray, shapes. If it has rounded lobes, it is a species friends. Most of the suggestions which follow Shows that beauty needs not to make gor- of white oak. If it has sliMp-pointed lobes, could be used for a hike on a weekday after- geous display. it is a noon or evening. species of black oak. They are usually ' rather large trees, with spreading branches. Meet at a central point for a hike to a 7. The Ash, having fibers tenacious and near-by grove. Take along the necessary strong, "The elms are more graceful than the materials fora picnic supper. Either before Teaches me firm resistance to battle with gales. Their branches curve beautifully. ' The or after supper, use some of the following wrong. leaf is oval shaped, a little rough, and always games: bigger on one side of the middle vein than A contest to see who can .identify the 8. The Aspen tells me, with its quivering on the other. greatest number of leaves and who can find leaves, the greatest, variety of trees. To be gentle to every sad creature that "The 'maples are almost as graceful as the A blindfold contest to see how many trees grieves. elms, They always have winged seed's. Their leaves always have five ribs—a long middle rib, can be named from the feel of the bark. 9. The Lombardy Poplars point upward in Put numbers on ten or more different trees praise; two almost as long on either side, and two within a given area. Give the hikers a list My voice to kind heaven they teach me short ones lower down. But remember that of the names of the trees. See how many can to raise. they all meet at one place where the stem place the proper number beside each tree begins. on the list. 10. The Elm teaches me to be pliantyet true; See who can list the most uses for tree Though bowed by rude winds it still rises "Fruit trees almost always have a plain products. This- could also be used. as a group anew. oval leaf, but you can learn to tell them apart even in winter by their branches. contest, dividing the party into several com- 11. I am taught generosity, boundless and-free. peting groups:, By the showers of fruit from the dear "The fine-textured bark of the beeches Trees used for beautifying purposes. ' Apple tree. varies from dark gray to almost white. Syca- Trees used for windbreaks. more trees have little balls, and light bark 12. The Cherry tree, blushing with fruit crim- that peels off, leaving patches. Trees used foi fuel. son zed, Trees used for furniture, tools, homes,l ' Tells of God's free abundance that all "And willows—" Ask the group to bring along cameras and may be fed. "Have narrow, long leaves and grow by make some photographs of trees. Have an the water," interrupted Ted. "But, daddy, exhibit of the pictures taken and vote on the 13. In the beautiful Linden, so fair to the please don't tell us any more now. Ask us first, second, and third best pictures. sight, This truth I discern: It is -inwardly white. questions to see if we remember what you've Have someone look up the stories of famous told us." trees. These could be told around the camp- 14. The firm-rooted Cedars, like sentries of old, fire. Show that virtue deep-rooted may also be "Fine," answered daddy. If you have not dope so in your society bold. • Here are his questions. See if you can meeting, or in addition to that, you will want —HELEN 0: HOYT, in Teacher's World. answer them as well as the boys did. Vol. 35. No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 17

How can you tell— Rum: Leaves? Who cares anything about July 24 An oak tree? them? They all look about alike. I don't THE GOSPEL ACCORDING Black oaks from white? understand how you can be always bothering An elm tree? with leaves. Every time you go for a walk TO YOU Fruit trees apart in winter? you come home with a bunch of leaves, and ORDER OF SERVICE A maple tree? then -you bury your head in a tree book until SONG: "Living Bibles," No. 52 in M. V: Songs. Beeches, sycamores, and willows? you've looked them all up. What is the idea, SENTENCE PRAYERS. Nom.—It would be well, if the leader-- anyway? CHORUS RESPONSE: "My Prayer," No. 28. could have some leaves from these trees and ANN: Why, I hadn't thought there- was REPORTS OP MISSIONARY WORK. S REPORT. would' diligently drill the Juniors on these anything queer about that. It is fun. You SECRETARY' points, reviewing them several times later. OFFERTORY. haven't studied the trees enough to become ANNOUNCEMENTS. • interested in them—that'S all. The trees are SONG: "My 'Daily Prayer," No. 22. • Tree Pals just like friends to me. As I go for a walk I, INTRODUCTION BY SUPERINTENDENT. I found some pals on the trail today, say, "There are my old friends the elms, with CONVERSATION: "Seed Sowing." (See Notes.) Companions tried and trite, their spreading arms," or, "Thank you, Mr. READING: "My Darling." And maybe they can be the same Sassafras; I'll chew a bit of one of your tender EXPERIENCE OR DIALOGUE: "I Can't Afford Good friends to each of you. leaves." Sometimes I say, "Hello, Mrs. Locust. It." SONG: "Just Where I Am," No. 77. There's a gnarly pine on the mountainside, Any rooms to let in your apartment today?" STORY: "A Little Girl's Influence." Which has braved the storms of years, because she already has a flicker, spme spar- /STORY: "A Boy's Appeal." Whose twisted arms have known my hopes, rows, and a bluebird living in old wood- TALK: "Life Sermons." , My gladness and my tears. peckers' holes on her trunk. TALK: "The Gospel According to You." ' DISCUSSION. (See Notes.) There's a cedar on a jagged rock Rum: Well, I'd want friends that could talk and move about. SONG: "Can the, World See Jesus in You?" Who taught me long ago No. 34. That the roots of the tree that meet the storm ANN: Sometimes I wish the trees could BENEDICTION. Must be anchored deep below. talk; and sometimes they almost seem to. The There's a broken tree that told my heart pine trees, especially, point straight toward Notes to Superintendents That, with trees as it is with men, heaven as if they'd say, "Thinkof`God." The Everything we do affects ourselves and One must bear the sorrow of defeat oak tree tells me' to be brave and 'strong. others. That is influence.. Influence is power, Then rise and go on again. The fruit trees say, "Be unselfish." But I'm and no power is ever lost. glad they don't move. "As a pebble dropped into the water And so to my tree pals, thanks again, Sends its waves out more and more, RUTH: Why? They'd be more interesting Companions of the way, In an ever-widening circle, I'll be glad tomorrow for the thoughts friends. Till they reach the other shore You've led me to think today. ANN: No, the birds and animals are hard So a deed, a word, an action, —VERNON BERRY. to get acquainted with because they can get, Dropped upon the sea of life, away so fast. But because the trees stay right Sends a blessing, or a cursing, Bible Trees there, if you once learn them, they are always In this world of sin and strife." where you can find them. , This gives us a responsibility which we Either draw trees on a blackboard or have must face as early in our Christian life as pos- cutout trees ready to place on a table when a ' Muir: I hadn't thought about that. Will sible. Each person with whom we have con- different tree is mentioned. Enlarge the list you help me to become acquainted with a few tact in life, either does or does not find his as much as you can. Trees are mentioned all from time to time? way to Jesus through us. There is no dodging through the Bible, particularly in the Old this duty. Testament. ANN: Surely, I will. And I'll show you how to look the new ones up in the book. CONVERSATION: "Seed Sowing."—Have two A. Variety of trees named-36. chairs arranged on the platform wherein a" It's so much fun. L Old Testament-29. ever Junior and yourself may sit to carry on this 2. ,New Testament-7. Rurn: But !I haven't any book. conversation. Avoid anything stagey. One Number of times trees are mentioned in B. ANN: I have an ideal I have been wonder- of the purposes of the J.M.V. Society is to the Bible-138. , ing how I could remember your birthday next train Juniors for future appearances before 1. Old Testament-126. groups of people, whether they be Congre- 2. New Testament-12. month. I'll give you a book on trees! We can both keep notebooks and make collections. It gated in churches or in cottage meetings, and Let's see how big a forest we can make. whether the Junior when grown is presiding will be so much fun to study and hunt for We'll place a tree for every time we can think as a layman or as a minister. Over a period of a tree mentioned in the Bible. our trees together! of time, try to have as many of the Juniors as Examples— possible participate in programs. Encourage Tree of life. them to take time and pains in preparing their Tree of the knowledge of good and, evil. part, making yourself available for sugges- Oak tree Absalom hung on. A Prayer tions as to improvement in diction, pronuncia- Sycamore tree Zacchaeus climbed. Teach me, Father, how to be tion; etc. It is suggested that in this "conver- Tree in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Kind and patient as a tree. sation," the Junior's part be memorized. Trees in Jotham's parables. Joyfully the crickets croon Discussiort "Discussions" are a fine way Juniper tree under which Elijah slept. M vitalize the Junior Society. They break Tree from which Moses took a branch to Under shady oak at noon; down timidity, encourage, self-expression and sweeten Marah. Beetle, on his mission bent, Tarries in that cooling tent. individual thinking, and when aptly handled Oak tree under which Deborah was buried. by the superintendent, result in a more co- Fig tree Jesus cursed. Let me, also, cheer a spot, Hidden field or garden grot— operative, unified group to fulfill the objec- tives of the organization. On this subject of Place where passing souls can rest influence, inspire the Juniors to testify where- Friends On their way and be their best. in they can improve their influence about the ,Ruth is sitting in a chair, reading. Ann -EDWIN MARKHAM. home, at school, and over their pals. comes into the house wearing her jacket and Used by permission. carrying a handful of leaves. ANN: Well, bookworm, how are you? I've Seed Sowing just had the grandest walk. If you don't be: The world is not without a ruler. The pro- JUNIOR: It seems to me, Mr. ---, that a lieve it, look at all these souvenirs! [Holds out gram of coming events is in the hands of the fellow can't as much as take a step in this life leaves.] Lord.—Testimonies, Vol.' 5, p. 753. , without its having either a good or a bad in- . 18 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948 fluence on somebody. When you come to the same way all of us upon this great earth money those fellows were just plain vulgar. think about it, it makes a chap almost afraid ship have been caught, not in a storm, but in "This morning the boss called me into the to live these days. the Gulf Stream of God's providence. The office. He was sorry, but I would have to SUPERINTENDENT: I don't know that there warm tropic currents will sweep us over to the change the company that I traveled with, or I is anything gained by being afraid, unless it heavenly harbor if we have been faithful in could not continue in-his employ; he did not makes us more careful about our influence. our seed sowing. think I could afford to have the reputation I We are all sowers, whether we want to be or JUNIOR: I am going to remember what you would ,get by going with that crowd: not. The wise are careful about the seed they have just 'said, Mr. ---. It throvvs a new "I'm glad I found out in time, for it might sow. You remember the story about the old light upon things. I shall try to remember have been too late. I see now what you monk who was shipwrecked alone on a desert that nothing that makes life better and happier meant by not being able to afford the trip. island. He always carried with him a few will be forgotten or wasted, even if we do not The cost is too high."—Exchange. roots and seeds. These he planted before he see the results ourselves.—Adapted from Enid died, and sailors coming there twenty years S. Smith. A Little Girl's Influence later found the island waving with fruit trees. In a certain hospital a little girl was to have I presume you have heard the story of Johnny "My Darling" an operation. She,was placed upon the table, Appleseed, who passed through Pennsylvania and the surgeon was about to give her ether, These were the words a New York news- when he said: "Before we can make you well, in 1801. paper reporter saw in the unlikeliest place we must put you to sleep." JUNIOR: No, Mr. ---; I don't have the imaginable—on the dashboard of a huge Broad- She spoke up sweetly and said, "Oh, if you honor of knowing the chap. way truck. The truck was caught in a dense are going to put me to sleep, I must say my SUPERINTENDENT: He was a youth who blockade, but the driver sat patiently waiting, prayers first." sowed good seed, so to speak, and whose in- So she got on her knees with some diffi- while truckmen all about him were swearing culty, and said the child's prayer, "Now, I lay fluence will never be forgotten. He collected or abusing their horses., apple seeds, the best he could find anywhere, me down to sleep." Afterward the surgeon "Yes, mister," said the driver, in reply to said he prayed that night for the first time in with which to plant orchards in the then the reporter's question, "I painted those words many years. No one can tell what influence uncultivated States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, up there myself. I wanted to have them a little child has, even over those whb are and Michigan. When he came to an open, where I could see them all the time, to re- ' older in years.—Our Little Friend. sunny spot in the forest, he would plant' his mind me of my promise to my little girl when seeds and protect them with a brush hedge. she was dying. 'Father,' she said, 'I'm going Story: A Boy's Appeal Years afterward, new settlers found hundreds to die, and I want you to promise me one' . A young man told how he had been in- of these embryo orchards in the forests. Three thing, because it will make me so happy.' fluenced to become a missionary. When he times he floated his canoe, laden with seeds, 'Yes,' said I, with the tears running down my was a child he used to walk often through a down the Ohio River to the settlers in Ken- certain churchyard. One of the gravestones cheeks, 'I'll promise.' Then she looked me by which he passed bore this inscription to tucky. And to this brave youth, called by our in the eyes, so sweet, and said, `0' father, Congressional Record "Johnny Appleseed," the memory of a little boy eight years old: don't be angry, but promise me you'll never "Mother, when I grow to be a man, I should whole States owe their wealth and treasure swear any more, nor whip your horses.' That's like to be a missionary; but if I die while I of vineyards and orchards. all there is about it, mister, and I've just put am still a little boy, will you put it on my This man is a beautiful type of all those those words up here to remind me of my tomb, so that some one passing by may read it who, passing through life's wastes, sow the little girl when I'm tempted."—Sunday School and go instead of me?" Through reading land with God's eternal -truths, whose leaves Visitor. this inscription so, often, the thought had and fruits heal nations. Do not, my boy, be grown in this young man's mind: "I must go afraid to sow that which has been given you in place of that little boy." to sow, and with patience await the harvest, I Can't AffOrd It For if God remembers the roots in dark forests, "1 can't afford it," said Ray Long, quietly. Life Sermons He will not forget His truths in human hearts The other boy looked at him in surprise. The conversation among a group of busi- sown there by the influences of His people. "Can't afford it?" he repeated. "Why, it nessmen turned to the subject of religion. Some one suggested that each tell why he JuNron: Yes, of course, Mr. ---; but most isn't going to cost you anything," he pro- became a Christian. of our sowing is done in the dark, is it not, tested. "The trip is free. Mel Wood has In one instance, it was a washerwoMan where we never have the chance to see the offered to take the crowd over in his machine, who was always singing, " 'Tis so sweet to results? ' and Art Hasoles has agreed to stand the hotel trust in Jesus.' SUPERINTENDENT: Oh, yes, it is true we bill. I don't understand what you mean by Another declared that the compelling factor very often do not see the results of our sow- saying you can't afford to go. There won't be in his life was a neighbor who drove six miles ing, but we should be content, if the seed is a cent to pay." over rough roads every Sabbath to attend me more than I church services. good, to know that some day the flower and "Yet, I expect it will cost Nearly half of those present had been won fruit will explain the seed and radiate its in- want to pay, and I must decline," Ray repeated. because of a Christian mother's life. fluence. The sower should not fear or be Ross Bickford wanted to know just what fainthearted, but embark with courage and Ray meant, but he was peeved at the other's The Gospel According to YOU refusal to go and would not let him see his determination upon life's journey. - Rough "What is your favorite'version of the Bible?" times are certain to come, but we must press interest, and so turned his back on his friend. a group of boys were asked in a Sunday school forward, ever trusting. You might ask what Ray heard no more from them until Mon- class. Some said, "The King James," others a child on some great ocean steamer in a day noon. Then he saw Ross and was sur- "The Revised Version," and some liked Mof- winter's Storm can do to overcome the tempest. prised at the look on his face. fatt's or Weymouth's. But one lad said: "I Can it drive the fierce blasts back to their "Why, Ross, what's the matter?" he in- like my mother's version best; she lives it." northern haunts? Can its little hand hold quired. "You look sick." "You are writing a gospel, the wheel, and guide the great ship? Can its "I am sick," Ross replied, "but not in the way you think. I'm sick at the narrow escape A chapter each day, voice still the billows that can crush the By deeds that you do, steamer like an eggshell? Can its breath de- I had-from, making a fool of myself." By words that you say. stroy the icy coat of mail that covers all the "What happened?" asked Ray. decks? What the child can do is to trust the "Oh, it wasn't so much what happened Men read what you write, captain who has brought this same ship yesterday, although I was disgusted with some Whether faithful or true; through a hundred hard storms. He can be- things said and done by the crowd! I never Say, what is the gospel, have himself properly, and trust and hope. In realized that in spite of their position and According to you?" Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 19

Supporthig the Ole CorrespoiideHce School Suggestive must be in one of our schools. Action results. representative for the school: Every church Comes fall, they join other thousands • member should recognize the school as his, Program for Sabbath, July 3 " of advent youth as students in one of our and then work for its success. Pass out hun- OPENING SONG: "Lift Him Up," No. 520'in schools. dreds of enrollment cards on the bus) on the Church Hymnal. The above pattern is cood. It has been subway, on the train, over the back fence, as SCRIpTURE READING: Revelation 14: 6-14, or proved over the years, and results have ac- you make that medical missionary visit, and use "The Three Angels' Messages," re- crued that prove the plan as one to be con- as you Write those unbelieving relatives and sponsive reading, page 580 in Church tinued and further developed; but, good as friends. Is someone passing through an es- Hymnal. the plan is, it needs die backing and support pecially dark and difficult experience? Make a PRAYER. of the parents and the other friends of Chris- visit, write a note, tell of the comfort the mes- SPECIAL Music. READING: "The Unique Function of the Bible tian education. Enthusiasm is catching, and sage gives you, speak a word "in season." Take Correspondence School," by R. J. Christian. as the youth return from our schools, they a Sunday morning to go from house to house POEM: "Ambassadors for Christ," by Adlai A. add their weight to the discussions, and our and ask for enrollments, or after a hard day's Esteb. schools are made yet more effective in their work take a few minutes to make calls asking READING: "Correlation of All Departments in appointed work of training and saving our for the privilege of enrolling some of your the Bible Correspondence School Program," youth. neighbors in the course. God expects you to by A. H. Field. Now let us look at our Bible Correspon- do it. The school needs the names of new ANNOUNCEMENTS AND LAUNCHING LOCAL dence Schools. Their faculties are busy six students, and you need the blessing to be re- PLANS. CLOSING SONG: "Hark! The Voice of Jesus days a week. Hundreds of-letters are handled ceived from just such spiritual exercise. Above Calling," No. 447 in Church Hymnal. daily, and the correspondence is constantly all else; your friends and the ones you enroll BENEDICTION. on the move. There are no vacation months need Christ and His saving message. in which their faculties can be) assigned to Listen! God is speaking to you! "Go work Unique Function of the field work in behalf of enrolling new students. today in My vineyard." "Lo I am with you Bible, Correspondence School Their faculties are kept ever busy making the alway." "Follow Me, and I will make you contacts by mail and answering questions for fishers of men." "Ask, and it shall be given By R. J. CHRISTIAN the eager and inquiring students. Neverthe- you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it Unnoticed, unheralded, and unafraid, the less, contacts must be made both with the old shall be opened unto you. . . . For every one Bible Correspondence Schools of the church students and with prospective students. that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh find- are doing their appointed work. Day after Let us consider first the prospective student. eth; and to him that knocketh it shall be day, night after night, and week after week, There is a growing fear in the hearts of men. opened." "The harvest truly is plenteous, but they continue their appointed way, bringing International trouble passes on down to the the laborers are few; pray ye, therefore, the the last message of mercy to the assigned individual as he sits by his radio, as he relaxes Lord of the harvest, that He will send-forth homes where they are so gladly and eagerly from the busy day's activities, as he con- laborers into. His harvest." Yes, pray that He received. Truly they constitute a last-day templates his tomorrows. But, that is the will even send you. Our schools have a won- method for the giving of the message. They question. Will there be a tomorrow? If .so, derful record of souls won to the truth—not are definitely another avenue through which what will it be like? What will be its chal- by tens, not by hundreds, but truly thousands that other angel of Revelation 18:1 can and lenge? Indeed, what of the future? The mind, have already been baptized—as the result of will work. Today nearly every conference studying this thought, turns for an answer. this type of evangelism. in the North American Division is conduct- It is not to be found in the daily papers. It While it is true that our great Voice of ing a Bible Correspondence School, and the is not blazoned in bold letters in the current Prophecy School far overshadows all of our number enrolled is enormous. Individual magazines. Fear grows, terrible gnawing fear, other correspondence schools, yet it cannot do schools vary in size from a few hundred stu- fear of the present, and a far greater fear of all that needs to be done. Our facilities are dents to better than 50,000 students. The the future—if indeed there is a future. This not too many, and our workers are too few. questions arise: Do they do the work? Do • is the picture to be found in many a home We should, by virtue of the lateness of the they win souls? Do they teach the message? today: Into just such homes thousands of hour, greatly increase our enrollments in all Are they practical? Are they adaptable for lessons are going daily from our scores of - of our schools. 'As we so often sing, "There's all types of territory? Are they up-to-date? Bible Correspondence Schools. But, alas, there a place for every worker in the vineyard of' Do they appeal to the people? Do the students are thousands of people as yet unenrolled and the Lord." Today God "calls for your help. carry through? Do baptisms result from their uncontacted for our schools. Let our:response be "Lord, here am I, send work? Do they help pay their way? Are they Stop! Think! Have you invited your neigh- worth the effort necessary to keep them staffed bor to enroll? Did you take a few minutes to Help is also needed in caring for the more and operating. smoothly? To all of these ques- discuss the current political trends and their advanced students who need personal assist- tions the answer is, Yes. far-reaching effects? Did you make an effort ance. Men and women come to the place in Each year our academies and colleges put to interest that troubled heart in the Bible and their studies where they need personal contact on recruiting drives to enroll new students. its message for today? Your Bible Corre- with those who can help tender feet over what Homes are visited by members of the faculty, spondence School is ready to go to work for appear to them to be rough and hard places. and contacts are made with the youth of our you, but you should realize your responsi- Here is, a large field for lay endeavor. Your &flues, and their interest in Christian educa- bility as a field worker for the school. Look! conference Home Missionary secretary will tion is aroused until the youth feel they Perhaps you did not realize you are a field gladly welcome your help—help so badly- - 20 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

needed now with our thousands of advanced Ambassadors for Christ ' vancing with rapid strides. Where our Bible students. Yes, there should be students in Correspondence Schools are the most success- your neighborhood who need just the kindly, "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ" ful, we find them supported by every one. personal help our Consecrated youth and adult 2 Corinthians 5: 20. Every school will prosper as we give it our church members can give. "Ambassadors for Christ!" 0 Lord, how can loyal support. This includes all of us, from Indeed the Bible Correspondence Schools it be the Conference president down to the tiny are a part of the advent movement. Working That sinful, mortal men of clay dare go and tots of the Cradle Roll. behind the walls and doors of the, great apart- speak for Thee? --A. H. FIELD. ment houses of our cities, working through How can our human hearts that years of sin reading racks in the bus, train, and plane have stained , With poisons from the serpent's Sting be ever depots, working in literature band work, work- Notes to Leaders drained?. ing through personal distribution of litera- In connection with the First Sabbath Service How can our tongues, that shot the viper's on, the Bible Correspondence School, it would ture, working along the shady streets of our venom far, be well to consult your conference Home Mis- cities and along the rural routes of our great Be used to bless the world, and no more mar? country areas, reaching out to the great sionary secretary and arrange with him some "Ambassadors for Christ!" 0 Lord, and can it ranches, to the homes of the poor, and bring- plan that can be launched in your particular be ing comfort to those who pass close to the locality. In some places names secured locally That eyes so -full of sin can ever see but Thee? are referred to the conference Bible Corre- borders of the valley of the deep shadows, and How can minds, filled with photographs of sin spondence School. In other churches circum- bringing courage to those who study: its les- for years, sons by way of spiritual review, these schools Erase from mem'ry's halls those imprints with stances permit the setting up of a local school are doing a great work. mere tears? in which the church members take an active Time would not permit a detailed review of How can words, long the vehicle of sinful part in the grading of lessons and other detail the good already accomplished. Suffice it to thought, work. say our Bible Correspondence Schools are do- Now paint the sacred pictures that new sight Your conference Home Missionary secre- has caught? ing a unique work for God. Unnoticed, un- • tary will be glad to advise you and help you heralded, and unafraid, they reach out through "Ambassadors for Christ!" 0 Lord, if this plan, so that at the time of this service you your co-operation to the homes of the needy, can be, will be able to launch a definite plan in which to the homes of your neighbors and my neigh- Then do Thy wondrous work, that we may every church. member can participate. bors. Quietly' working so as not to arouse pre- speak for Thee. Take Thou our mortal minds and wash with judice, they are being used of God to turn the The'Bible Training Class blood, not tears, Every pastor and district leader would like hearts of thousands to this message of mercy 'Those sinful, sad impressions of those careless and salvation. They are our schools. They years. , to have a church or a district in which every deserve and need our support and co-opera- Take Thou our sinful hearts and make them, church was composed of members who were tion. If every church' member would secure Lord, like Thine; thoroughly trained ,in leadership and were just one new enrollment a week for the next For only as our hearts are pure can our words experienced soul winners and efficient In- four weeks, we could add a million new stu- be divine. gathering workers. It would not take long to dents within a month right here in the North —ADLAI A. ESTEE. finish the work if we had such churches, and American Division. if the members were filled with the Holy Perhaps there's a friend or neighbor that Some of our most energetic workers in any Spirit for this service! I believe every worker you alone can interest in the Bible Corre- missionary activity are the Missionary Volun- has longed to find such a church, and ptayed spondence School. Invite that person to enroll teers. They are full of life and zeal, and with that his church would become that very thing this next week. You're doing that individual proper instruction they can and are doing a for God. a favor, a favor that you may be thanked for great good in getting enrollments for the Bible Here is a message from the Lord Jesus to throughout eternity? Will you help? School. Every one is pleased to see young our pastors and district leaders concerning people engaged in church workr nearly all are- this very thing: "Every church should be a Correlation of All Departments willing to co-operate with them by receiving training school for Christian workers. Its in the Bible Correspondence the Bible lessons. members should be taught how to give Bible School Program Our schools, working with the Missionary readings, how to conduct and teach Sabbath Volunteer department, are training our youth school classes, how best to help the poor and ' The Bible Correspondence School is • no for efficient service. There, too, can the Cor- to care for the sick, how to work for the un- longer in the experimental stage. Thousands respondence course find real support. converted,"—Ministry of Healing, p. 149. "In have been enrolled and many more are being Nor would we forget the Sabbath school every church the members should •be so enrolled,every day. The results have been department. We were in a Sabbath school trained that they will devote tithe to the marvelous. Many are with us rejoicing in the Hass recently where the teacher realized that winning of souls to Christ."—Testimcmies, truth because they have been invited to join a„ visitor was in attendance. He asked her Vol. 6, p. 436. ,- this great band of Bible students. some simple questions on the lesson and made Here is the divine plan for us to follow. This work has been promoted through the her feel at ease. Although he was also a s, Workers, you are commanded to train the Home Missionary Department, but we should visitor in that class, he made an, opportunity members of your churches for, service in the not feel that only those who are working in after the recitation period to get .acquainted cause of the Lord. We spend thousands of or for that department should carry all the with this non-Adventist lady. He found her dollars annually to educate our young people responsibility, This, like other phases of our very receptive and eager to accept an invita- to become workers in the organized move- work, calls for co-ordinated evangelism. tion to attend regularly. All strangers should ment. These young folk we expect to become In many places the Publishing department thus be made welcome, and by inviting them ministers, Bible instructors, and workers in is helping the Bible School by securing new to join the Bible Correspondence School, other capacities in the field. But why should students. Some of our faithful door-to-door many will become' regular Sabbath school we neglect the potential possibilities of the salesmen do not feel they have done their members and will also join the church. There lay members at home? With proper training duty unless they have given the members of are various other ways in which the Sabbath they' would be a powerful influence for the each home they visit an opportunity to join school can co-operate with this work. finishing of the work. the Correspondence School. And many of There really are no departmental divisions "How is this to be done?" you ask. There these colporteurs are enjoying the greatest in our work, nor would the Lord have it so. is no finer method than for the district leader, thrill that can come to any individual—the As we all, from every department, work hand or the pastor of the church (and if there is joy of seeing a soul accept Christ. in hand, we will find the cause of God ad- Neither to be had, .then let the church elder Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 21,

or leader take over) to organize a class in lay ing work. Get your people together, and talk center in Christ, so make Christ first. "Christ evangelism. This class ought to consist of it over with them. Let them set the time, in you, [is] the hope of glory." Paul tells us. members of the church whom the leader shall and then call the roll, and check absentees. Colossians I: 27. Make sure Christ is in you, ask to join, arid other members who will vol- Be. kind, and loving, and helpful. You are first of all, and then you will be able to show unteer. Inlist as many 'members to take up doing them a great service. Don't push them, others what He should mean to them. They this training as it is possible to secure. Plan Lead them! in turn will be able to reveal Christ to lost your class training so as to make it interesting Use such helps as the course offered by the sinners. as well as helpful. Be sure that you actually Home Study Institute, of the new Home Mis- Such classes should operate the year around. teach your members how and why. Then put sionary Department book, Training Light Satan never takes a vacation. Catch the vision them to work: Bearers. You could even use the Twentieth- of Christ giving Himself for you, then give In the early days of my ministry I was en- Century Correspondence lessons. Make all that same Christ to your members, and they gaged in Home Missionary work as a depart- - of your lessons center in Christ. Put the spir- in turn will want to see that same Christ in mental man. Everywhere I could see latent itual mold on all of your work. Never be tech- others. possibilities! It takes a great deal of patience nical nor doctrinal. Every doctrine has its .--JOHN MITCHELL.: and everlasting stick-to-itiveness to make this class teaching a success, but it pays big divi- dends. Try it, and see for yourself. This is the method that Jesus used in training His disciples, and it, worked. Why !should we not use His method today? From my own experience I can ,say I know it works. I have known of ladies in these classes being chosen by the conferences and No Summer Slump not have a vision surely the light and the employed as Bible instructors. Why? Because message will finally go out. these sisters had had training, actual experi- The counsel from God's word to' every All activities of the church, all of its, or- ence in soul winning, and they were able to Christian is found in 2 Timothy 4: 2: "Preach ganizations, have the •sanie objective, that of do acceptable work. I have seen young men the word; be instant in season, out of season; saving souls. As we plan our objectives for and older men develop into strong church reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering the year, let us remember that our supreme workers and efficient church leaders. I have and doctrine." The- thought I-, wish to em- objective is that of winning souls for God's seen members of various classes prove them- phasize is, "be instant in season, out of sea-- eternal kingdom. selves capable soul winners and .strong son." ( As we consider our topic, "No Summer ers in our church campaigns. Our people long, Many times we take an active part in Slump," we must consider the program for to, do better work than they are able to do church work if others are working. But we the entire year. One conference has as its now. They want to become all that God de- should plan our work so as to be active at all objective for 1948, (1) Every church member sires them to be, and it is a great challenge times. There should be no vacation in' this "on fire" for Christ, (2) Every church "organ- to the leadership of our churches to train them matter of giving the last warning, message. ized" for service, (3) Every church member to become all of that. The apostle Paul, looking down to our gen- "trained" for service. If this can be followed "The people hale had too much sennoniz- eration wrote, "Knowing the time, that now in every church we will be able to carry a well-balanced program and will not have a ing; but have they been taught how to labor it is high time to awake out of sleep." Ro- "summer slump" in witnessing for Christ. for those for whom Christ died? Has a line mans 13: 11. It, is evident that while the Perhaps a few suggestions will help us as of labor been devised and placed before them world is ignorant of the time of its visitation • church officers and home missionary workers in such a way that each has seen the necessity there will be those who know the' times and to carry on an aggressive program throughout of taking part in the work?"—Testimonies, their significance. The following quotations are of value in helping us to know the times, the year. In January and February conduct Vol. 6, p. 431. "The crisis is fast approaching. The rapidly in your church the course, "Training Light Too much sermonizing! Not enough teach- swelling figures show that the time for God's Bearers,", and during the month of March ing how to work for others. This is truly a visitation has about come. . . . Those who have an aggressive mailing and perkaml dis- positive indictment, and there is no excuse. walk in the light will see signs of the ap- tribution of literature in connection with this In one church where we had separate classes proaching peril."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 209. course. Then, of course, in April and May for the men and for the women, we saw the "The angel of mercy is foldino her wings, comes our Ingathering, and during that pro- laity raise up a second church in the same ready to depart. Already the Lord'sp restrain- gram those who are alert will be able to make city. In fact, the pastor baptized about seven- ing power is being withdrawn from the earth. many contacts for Bible study and proper teen persons the first year the laity started . . . Already the inhabitants of the earth are follow-up. During the month' of June organi- to do what they had been taught to do. marshalling under the leading of the prince zation can be fostered for an aggressive sum- "I had rather see a sermon than hear one, of darkness, and this is but the beginning of mer, literature program. Usually during July any day," said Edgar Guest. And this is true the end. . . . The Lord is soon to cut short there is the camp meeting season. August and of human nature anywhere. Our dear people His work, and put an end to sin,"—Ibid., September can be used for literature distri- should be taught-to live their sermons, and the Vol. 8, p. 49. bution in a systematic manner. Perhaps this public will be apt students. Here we are at In view of these quotations given to us by period can be used in preparation for an effort the very threshold of eternity, with a gigantic the servant of the Lord, we, as church lead- that will be held by the pastor or evangelist task yeno accomplish for the Master. We talk ers, should definitely plan a program for the in yoUr particular city. In October, November, about, and pray for, the latter rain, and the whole church, for the entire year. If we have and December all will be able to assist at the loud cry, and the infilling of the Spirit. But any vision, e will plan , the church program fall effort by attendance of the meetings, are these not one and the same work of grace? for several years. "Wherever 'a church is es- - bringing friends, distributing literature and And this to be done only for ! those who are tablished, all the members should engage ac- handbills, and in other activities. actually doing the work of God? Do we not tively in missionary work. They should visit As the church considers the yearly program, read in Acts I: 8 that this pbwer is given for every family in the neighborhood." Volume 6, it should not overlook the activity Of enroll- witnessing? Is your church witnessing for page 296. ing friends and' neighbors in the Bible corre- Christ? Have you taught your members to We are told in Proverbs 29: 18 that "where spondence course. This work can be carried witness? Do you know how to witness there is no, vision, the people perish?' How on at all times. properly? true this !statement is in connection with our Another suggestion has been made that Make up your mind to try this class train- missionary activities in the church. If we do can be carried out in connection with summer 22 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

vacations. As we travel along the highways, Work activities are a vital link in the Sab- Sabbath Afternoon Activity take literature along-Bible course cards and bath afternoon program. The church can Outline advertising-to pass out to filling station attend- purchase a wire recorder and much of the ants, at auto camps, and elsewhere along the morning service can be recorded. In the after- I. Adults way, as circumstances permit. noon this recording should be taken to as A. Training Classes: We should never feel self-satisfied. We many shut-ins as possible. This connecting 1. Master Comrade Class. must not feel that we are doing all that we link with the church gives them great 2. Teachers' Training. 3. Officers' Training Class. should. If we constantly feel that we are ac- joy. The advantage of the wire recorder is 4. Layman's Evangelism. that the same wire may be used over and complishing all that we possibly can for God, 5. How to Give Bible Studies. we will never be stirred to redouble 'our activi- over again for a new program each Sabbath. 6. Sabbath School Teachers' Meeting. ties for Christ. We are living in the sunset Sabbath school absentee cards are used to 7. How to Visit the sick. • hour of earth's history. Let us "be instant in advantage in the afternoon program. Every 8. Testimony Study. season, out of season," carrying on an aggres- church member is enrolled in the Sabbath 9. How to Be an Instructor for Cor- sive year-around program for the finishing of school, and a special group sends absent mem- respondence Bible Course. bers weekly letters inviting them to Sabbath B. Work Activities: God's message. -CARL P. ANDERSON. school, informing them they were "missed." 1. Visiting Bands. This group also attends to the church mailing (1) Recorder for Shut-ins. (2) Absent Sabbath School list, sending letters to nonmembers who Members. Missionary Promotion on the visited the church the preceding Sabbath. (3) Visitor Correspondence. Sabbath The local church should have its own cor- 2. Addressing Weekly Church Letter. respondence school. The group taking care 3. Correcting Correspondence Course The destruction of Sabbath sacredness is of this school receives the greatest blessing Lessons. the aim of Satan. World tensions and count- 4. Distributing Literature. less attractive influences designed to lull men C. Services: to sleep are special temptations to the Chris- 1. News Events and Bible Prophecy. tian to draw the mind away from God. 2. Missionary Speakers. Pleasure riding, the radio, newspapers, and 3. Vespers. secular visiting all tend to destroy the sacred- 4. Prayer Bands. ness of Sabbathkeeping. II. Youth A. Training Classes: If the Sabbath is kept according to the 1. Progressive Classes. design of God, then everything else in re- 2. How to Visit Jails. ligion will cease to be a problem; for Sabbath- 3. How to Visit the Sick and Shut-ins. keeping exerts an influence on the heart that 4. How to Organize Evangelistic 'sanctifies the whole life. Youth Services. The Sabbath must be a complete day dedi- 5. Officers' Training. cated to God. The modern trend is to have B. Work Activities: • services only in the morning, the afternoon 1. Folding and Mailing Signs. , becoming a time of ill-directed personal ac- 2. Distributing Papers to Both Mem- bers and Neighbors. tivities. The Sabbath is the high day for the 3. Visiting Band. church-the day to study to show ourselves 4. Singing Band. approved of God, the day to attend many C. Services: types of services, the day to devote to mission- 1. Study Forum. ary work and training. The lessons learned 2. Vespers. in the Sabbath school are not only learned through prayer for the students, correcting grayer Bands. to receive, but to give. papers, and making personal visits to those in- Juniors The outline given here is designed for a terested. A. Training Classes: Sabbath afternoon program, and in its com- Sabbath afternoon is ideal for a "Special ' 1. Progressive Classes. 2. Church Doctrines. pleteness, for a large church. However, small Service." The four o'clock hour seems to be B. Work Activities: churches will be able to select the activities a good time. At this time a church forum may be conducted. During the first half of 1. Wrapping Church Papers. that will be suitable for the individual church. 2. Distributing Papers. the forum, important news events bearing on Training classes are of prime importance. C. Services: Each class is conducted for a period of six Bible piophecy may be discussed, and during 1. Junior Church (Complete). weeks only; thus a program for a year is the last half, a detailed study of the book 2. Prayer Bands. easily arranged. For instance, the Master The Great Controversy may be carried on. -A. N. JOHNS. Comrade class is a training class for definite The members are encouraged to bring in work in the church. Each Master Comrade clippings, for the news review. During the Inspiring Our Churches to should understand that his training is for a four o'clock hour, a separate, Junior Church Service purpose-not to gain some church honor, but service may be conducted. This service should "Let those who have charge of the flock to prepare to lead junior and youth groups- be complete, with officers, announcements, awake to their duty, and set many souls to and this can be successfully accomplished. and special music. In fact, it is patterned work."-Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 436. These The need for unified thinking on the part after the regular hour of worship. Juniors of the teachers of the church is necessary to have complete charge of the service, with the words should challenge every worker in the successfully carry, on a church program, and exception of the sermon, which is given by Cause, of God to arise and face our God-given to prevent every conceivable doctrine and an older youth or by the minister. This responsibility of inspiring the membership of theory being presented. To unify all the is a wonderful training class for the Juniors. our churches to the finishing of God's work teachers in doctrine, •and to instill in their The suggestions which follow have a goal here in the earth. We are told in Volume 9, students the one object for which the church of providing something for everyone to page 82, "The best help that ministers can exists-to save souls, and not to argue theories do during the precious hours of the Sabbath. give the members of our churches is not ser- -will do more for church advancement than The result will be a missionary-minded monizing, but planning work for them. Give any other one thing. Thus is seen the need church, winning souls for Christ. ,each 'one something to do for others." Also, for officers' training classes, instructions on in Volume 7, page 21, it says: "Hundreds visiting the sick, study of the Spirit of pro- "Manners easily and rapidly mature into of men and women now idle could do accept- phecy, and training for giving Bible studies. morals."-Horace Mann. able service. By carrying the truth into the Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE

homes of their friends and neighbors, they nice line of missionary activity. As early as interest in finishing the work of God will ac- could do a great work for the Master." The possible in the year, cards should be passed out complish great things for God in that church. greatest human resource, waiting to be tapped to every church member on which are ptinted It is the-responsibility of our live-wire pas- and put to use in this crisis of the world's the' different missionary projects that the tors to inspire the missionary committee of the history lies right at home in the energies of our church wishes to sponsor that year, such as church to action. The missionary leader car- laymen. "Let ministers teach church members 'singing bands, literature bands, personal Bible ries his enthusiasm from the committee to the that in order to grow in spirituality, they must studies with projectors, branch Sabbath schools, church as a whole, stimulating it to action. carry the burden that the Lord has laid upon Sunday schools, lay preaching. With the church on fire for Christ, and them, the burden of leading souls to the 'After these cards have been filled out by divided into its different working bands, the truth." all who desire to do so and have been collected band leaders should continue to inspire the and filed by the missionary leader, have the The greatest prerequisite in- the successful members of those bands with the enthusiasm individuals separate into these different sands organization of churches for intensive mission- that began with the pastor of that church. for'specific instruction and organization. There ary work lies in the leadership of that church. With truly consecrated and enthusiastic are always those who need guidance in making leadership all through our churches,. with a Sheep without a shepherd have a definite ten- their decision of what they want to do. Such definite program and materials with which to dency to mill around and go nowhere. Just might be invited to join a specific class to help work, with the spirit of God permeating the, so in the church, missionary program, we need train them in definite missionary projects. Let simple missionary organization that has been more men and. women with the zeal of Paul, us never forget that throughout the entire mis- set up in every church, God's work will be men and women who are full of enthusiasm sionary organization of the church, from the finished quickly. May God bless each of us and fire for the message to the extent that pastor down to the band leader, the leadership to this end. they will leave no stone unturned until every that has inspiration, enthusiasm, and a zealous —R. E. ADAMS. soul-winning, avenue has been exhausted and every layman put to work in that church. "Time is short, and our forces must be organ- ized to do a larger work." N In view of this solemn challenge and dis- cernment of our responsibility there needs to be placed before our churches a definite and positive program; a program that is not fos- tered by one individual alone, but by the mis- sionary committee of the church as a whole. Whatever program is sponsored • in a local Your Work Cannot Fail They used the money for materials; but they church along missionary lines should be such Our people are the most willing people on did the work themselves. They even painted that it meets the approval of the district pastor earth. Every time a need is presented, they the entire church on the inside. Finally every- and that it works in harmony with whatever respond wholeheartedly. Yet, why have many thing was ready for the opening night. conference-wide program is already in motion. of our people been so slow to respond to the Naturally everybody was expecting a packed desperate need for workers to carry our mes- house. A young interne, who is now a suc- With church pastors, elders, and missionary cessful conference evangelist, was chosen leaders all on fire in this laymen's crusade, sage of hope to a fearful world? One excuse seems to be outstanding; that is that after as the speaker. All of the young people with a definite program to place before the turned out that night to see the crowd. But church, and with material to back it up, more working hard, they fail to see any results from their labor. For instance, they devote only a few besides themselves came out. They, than half of our battles are already won in were disappointed, but not discouraged. They getting our churches organized and to work. their hard-earned dollars and precious hours of time in passing out literature, expecting to began to suggest reasons for such a small Again let me emphasize the fact that in order number in attendance for the first night; for a church to progress in any missionary or- see at le'ast one person take his stand for the truth; when this does not happen, they think and began to whip up new zeal to overcome ganization, the leadership of the church will that they just do not have the ability that these obstacles. But the next night it was have to have its heart, soul, and energies en- Others have, and they become discouraged even worse, and each night saw fewer and tirely behind the enterprise, otherwise the and quit. fewer until they had nobody but themselves membership will become discouraged and the Perhaps we have all been discouraged at attending. Even their own number had program will be a failure. times with the results of our work. Yet we dwindled down like Gideon's army, because About the first of the year, the missionary have no reason to be, because God has pro- of the lack of excitement of a large crowd. committee of the church should meet and a mised that He will keep our work from be- After' three weeks, they decided to . dose, survey be taken of the missionary work done coming a failure. This promise we must admitting their efforts to be a failure. The the previous year. By so doing we can profit accept by faith in every task, whether great last Friday night of the series, the courageous by our mistakes and thus plan a program or small. pastor preached a sermon, telling these young that, romises abundant results in souls. Once In a large city, one of our most prominent people that no work of God is ever a failure; a definite missionary project has been launched, evangelists with his large crew of workers that they would see souls in the kingdom of the duties of the missionary committee are not had just completed a very successful evangel- heaven as the result of this evangelistic camp- over. A meeting of the church missionary com- istic campaign. Among those baptized were aign. mittee should be held monthly so that the mis- a number of young people. These young After the young interne, together with all sionary work of the church may continue to people were turned over to one of the young, the other workers except the pastor, had moved receive definite attention and promotion. It ministers to organize for missionary work. on to other fields, the pastor learned that one should be the aim of this committee to lay Being young people and new in the truth, of the married couples who had been promi- before the church a program in which every their energies were at a high pitch. Nothing nent in helping in the series of meetings, was member will find a place to work. It should, less than a public evangelistic campaign would still giving 'Bible studies to a family whom also plan for inspiring missionary services and satisfy them. They scoured the town in they found while 'giving out literature. This make sure that the talent used will give in- search of a meeting place. They finally lo- family had never come out to the meetings— spiration to the church. cated an old church that had not been used not even once. This young Married couple The missionary leader of the church is the for a long time. It was badly in need of re- came to the pastor several times with the in- spokesman of the missionary committee, and pairs. But this did not stop the determination tention of giving up the studies, but he en- as such he should bend every effort to enlist of these young people. They first donated couraged them to go on. The night they the help of all church members in some defi- all they had, and then they solicited the rest. planned to give their last study. the young July, 1948 24 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE

son, of the family came in for the first time. went to the C.C.C. Camp right after baptism ployed young women participate, was formed Later he was examined on church. doctrines is now one of our successful ministers. to meet on Tuesday evenings. For a while and baptized by the pastor. None of this would have ever happened they did their class work and gave out the This young man soon after joined a C.C.C. had it not been for the evangelistic campaign literature all in oneevening, but now con- Camp. Here he held Sabbath school and that was given up as a failure. And this is siderable more time is spent by some of the church by himself, His comrades made fun not all. New chapters are being added every members doing follow-up work. of him, but he continued. Finally he got year to this soul-winning story, and they will Remarkable results are being seen from the some of his friends to join him, and for the continue, becoming greater and greater 'until efforts of these members. 'Two sisters found a sermon each Sabbath he preached our doc- Jesus comes. lady in the first square block they worked trines to them. Two of these boys were This is. not an unusual experience. It is who was so interested she immediately began baptized by the same pastor who had baptized just God's fulfillment of His promises. But taking Bible studies. 'Another sister, though him. One of these boys in turn, went home "when we give ourselves' wholly to God, and in very poor health,, has visited her whole and talked to his family about his new-found in our work follow His directions, He mikes neighborhood within the past few months faith, and left them some literature. Himself responsible for, its accomplishment. with literature. She has interested six families After two years the same pastor was trans- He would not have us conjecture as to the suc- in taking Bible studies, and a number of the ferred to the city where this boy's parents cess of our honest endeavors. Not once should members of these families have either been lived. He baptized the mother. While he was we even think of failure: We are to co-operate baptized, or are now ready for baptism. examining the mother on the church doctrines, with One who knows no failure,"—Christ's preparatory to baptism, a daughter, who was ObjeOt Lessons, p. 363. Again in Ministry of just getting ready to take the nurse's course Healing, page 159, "The humblest workers, Co-ordinating All Depart- at a hospital that was operated by her church, in co-operation with Christ, may touch chords ments for Soul Winning defiantly said that she would never change whose vibrations shall ring to the ends of the her religion. However two years later the earth, and. make melody throughout eternal (This is the first part of an article by Roy • girl wrote to this same pastor, asking him ages." L. Benton, dealing with a subject vital to May God have all our energies to work when she could be baptized. After finishing every Home Missionary worker. The last part we always believe that Cod her nurse's course, she continued her training for Him; and may of it will follow next month.) in one of our schools. During the summer will make every act that we perform for Ilim Two ,phases of organization were employed months, she worked in a private hospital. succeed. in the establishment of our work throughout Here she met a Catholic girl who had planned the world—geographical and departmental. We to be a nun. The nurse led her into the Oregon Soul Winners have divided the world into sections known. as truth, and now the former Catholic girl is divisions, with responsible division officers and attending one of our schools. The mother In Eugene, Oregdn, both men and women committees; in order that every portion of the entered the colporteur work, and continued are active in personal work. While there are a world may come directly under the influence number of veteran workers in the church, until she laid down her life in service. of our organized work. These divisions, in The son who brought the truth home to his many of the workers are new members. A turn, are comprised of Union Conferences group of sixteen does class and field work on family was later drafted into the army. He made up of Local Conferences, which include became friendly with another soldier, and Sabbath afternoons. districts having churches, companies, and iso- by the time they arrived in England, his A group of Women, mothers, and house- lated members. This type of organization en- friend was ready to be baptized and join keepers, meet every Thursday morning for ables us to operate our work very effectively. the church. After they got out of the army, prayer and the practice of giving Bible studies As the work grew, it became obvious that they both entered one of our colleges in the to each other. They are now giving Bible it must be considered from another angle— United States. It was not long before the studies to ten individuals whoni they found C.C.C. Camp convert had influenced his in the distribution of the "Prediction Series." that. of the various kinds of work within the only brother to join them. The boy who Another class, in which a number of em- denomination. As the objective of the de- nomination's work is soul winning, it, there- fore, is the objective of each line of work to win souls. Through the gift of the Spirit of Women's Mission: prophecy, we have been led, step by step, in ary Group of Eu- promoting various lines of work—educational, r gene, Oregon. health, religious liberty, publishing, Sabbath Members are giving school, home missionary, young peoples', tem- studies to ten indi- perance, and press relations. vidunls, With the rapid growth of the work, each department has been more fully organized, until now we have many departments making up the whole; and there is a possibility that the leadership of each line may be tempted to push their department to the point where other departments may be disadvantaged. These is definite need to see that all departments under- stand and maintain an over-all objective. Organization is the pooling of our indi- vidual and departmental effdrts toward the reaching of collective goals.' That goal, with us, is soul winning. Any plan, or any en- deavor, which does not definitely contribute Misses Thelma Peterson to soul winning is not to be considered. We and Leah Neighbors with are not set up to glorify men, but to glorify Mrs. Lois Lotspeich with God. If the reaching of certain goals is only whom they are studying. to call attention to an individual rather than to win souls to the gospel, we should abandon that endeavor. Church members and workers Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 25 . - should, be constantly reminded that our real departmenis, but in their forging ahead to- For instance, here is a letter from a lady who success lies not in human' efforts in rivalry ward this objective, they must remember they belongs !to a --- church! "They are very and competition, but, rather, in our individual 'are a part of a whole and not the whole. Each stubborn about their belief of the Sabbath day, relation to God and our co-operative relation- department is a wheel within the wheel, and How can I convince-a whole church that I am ship to our brethren. each cog in each wheel has a definite work and right and they are wrong about Sundaykeep-, There is a place and a way for the educa- responsibility, and the success of the work to ingl" tional work to win souls for God. There is be done by the master wheel depends upon ' Then again we find tremendous changes in also a place for the Missionary Volunteer de- the loyalty and co-operation- of the wheels the-eating habits and living habits of people. partment to do this, likewise the Sabbath' Within the wheel. Here i; a testimony: "I would like to be en- School, Home Missionary, and all the other (To be concluded) rolled in the Twentieth Century Bible Course again. I bought this book that I have been reading and studying from your representative. My husband has changed in some ways 'in keeping the Sabbath as I prayed and hoped he would. My health is the best it has been in eight years since I started keeping the Sabbath 'and eating what God told us to eat and not eating what He told us not to eat. My hus- July 3 mg, traveling on the bus or train, shopping. band is very much pleased over my being visiting, vacationing, or wherever one may be. healthier than I have been in so long. I made Securing Enrollments in the Still another very successful method of secur- a 'vow to God that if He would show me -the, Bible Correspondence School ing enrollments is on Saturday night to place way, I would keep it, and I intend to do so.b God it greatly blessing the Bible Corre- the cards in the hands of people on the street , We are to urge all of our people to faith- spondence School plan as a very definite source and in the parked automobiles. fully distribute enrollment cards and really of 'soul winning. "Everyone who has received In mapping out the territory for various invite people to study in this way as it famil- the, gospel has been given sacred truth to bands and church members to work, great iarizes individuals thoroughly with the doc- impart to- the world. God's faithful people" care should be taken to perfect the organiza- trines of the message and establishes their in have alway• been aggressive missionaries, con- tion so that the territory is covered thoroughly the truth, In fact, it truly brings them face to secrating their resources to the honor of His and systematically. Small charts such as 'the face with the necessity for a clear decision. name, and wisely using their talents imHis one below, showing the territory each group Listen to this testimony, "Truly I am in the is responsible for, are helpful in this con- valley of /decision. Please pray that God will service."—Acts of the Apostles, p. 109. The nection. Following such a plan materially help me to make the right decision." Bible Correspondence School produces ,stable cuts down the chance for misunderstanding Truly the agency of the Holy Spirit directs commandment keepers. which is likely to occur when people rely on the activities of God's people in securing in- HOW CAN ENROLLMENTS BE SE., verbal instructions. terest through this avenue. CURED FOB THE SCHOOL? Name J. 0. MARSH. One of the most effective ways to enroll stu- Address Church dents is to organize church members into bands Band No District July 17 and allocate each band a certain district, pre- _J I i • L_ Follow-Up Contacts in Corre- paratory to the distribution of enrollment cards. t , (blocks These cards (most of them are the size of (streets to St. spondence Schools post cards, whether single, double; or triple When Paul advised Timothy to "study to folded) can be secured from the local confer- . show thyself approved unto God . . . rightly ence Bible School. As a sperheach to precede dividing the Word of truth," he touched- on the enrollment cards, several pieces of litera- an important means of convincing individuals ture may be systematically given, one piece of the truth of Girl's Word. (2 Timothy 2:15.) The Bible Correspondence School has each week. This creates a definite interest on tn the part of the prospect to learn more of the O 15) opened to us a different, a new, and better ap- word of God. As the last piece of literature is proach to many, sincere hearts. However, as passed out, an enrollment card should be pre- important as the personal study is to the indi- sented and the person invited to enroll. vidual interested, it is seldom sufficient in, Street Another good way to use the enrollment itself to win him to Christ. We must follow cards is to punch a hole in the upper left-hand , up every interest with a personal contact. L. D PRATT. corner of the card and attach a string, in color With the hundreds enrolled in our Bible if desired, which enables the one distributing Correspondence Schools it becomes impossible the cards to hang one of them on the door , July 1 Q for the Bible School instructor or even the knob of each home. This presents the card in Experiences district pastor to' contact all of these students. Bible School for a very attractive manner. It is also possible to The Twentieth Century Bible School has Here, then, .is !a vast missionary field our have the cards prepared in this way by the •Proved to be a very effective and inexpensive trained layman. As soon as he is ready to printer without too much expense. This type soul-winning endeavor. People- who live within enter this field of missionary endeavor, he will of program should also be systematically organ- a short distance of a church learn of the truth be supplied with names from the Bible Corre- ized so that every home within the given dis- and are amazed to know that there is such a spondence School or by the district pastor. He trict may be contacted. thing as a Seventh-day Adventist in existence. should make these contacts as a representative Should the outlying territory be worked, it This was the case with a young lady who of the Bible School, inquiring as to the in- would be best to first secure from the post wrote to us as follows: "I cannot describe the terest, and making himself available for help office the number of rural boxes, and address peace and understanding I have received since in the study of the lessons. If he cannot make the enrollment cards to box holders. (For I began worshiping on' His, day. I feel' like personal -visits, he can write letters. details consult the postmaster.) Never forget a person just beginning to live. For years I One church took a list of twenty names and that everyone should carry a few enrollment have yehmed for the truth and a better under- , made follow-up contacts with personal letters cards for the Bible Correspondence ,School standing of God's word." and by sending; a year's subscription to the with him wherever he goes. There are always We also find people strongly entrenched in Present Truth, Later the pastor held a series opportunities of enrolling 'students while work- other congregations who face mighty decisions. of Meetings in this locality and some have' 26 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948

been baptized and others are definitely inter- sented, when at the same time he reserved Let us sense what the student expects us to ested. It is indeed a privilege to help others the right of personal conviction. So, the one do, and disarm him by not applying pressure to learn of Jesus. making the first call at the home of the stu- or undue force. The Spirit of God must "The spirit of unselfish labor for others dent should not assume that the student has bring conviction. A warm, friendly, Christian gives depth, stability, and Christlike loveliness gone all the way because he has filled in the interest will relieve tension, and will open to the character, and brings peace and happi= lessons. To assume a little at the wrong time the door of the home for continual visits, con- ness to its possessor."—Steps to Christ, p. 84. can be to assume too much. We can assume ducive to spiritual growth as well as doc- The time has come' when every church they believe what they write in the lessons, trinal enlightenment for the salvation of souls. member should be working for his friend and but we must remember that not all of the —D. W. O'rvitt. neighbor. Let us take advantage of these Bible decisions made on paper are fully realized, School interests and work fox them, making and for lack of the personal contact these calls July 31 personal contact for Bible studies and mission- for decision are not completely. understood. Bible Correspondence School ary visits. We are told through the Spirit of When we make our first visit, whether prophecy that "Satan is now seeking to hold after lesson eight or eighteen, the student for Triumphs God's people in a state of inactivity, to keep the first time begins to see in his lessons more The Bible Correspondence School offers a them from acting their part in spreading the than just so much doctrine on paper. He sees very fine avenue of missionary work. To make truth, that they may at last be weighed in the the people of the message. The first visit to this school successful, a great deal of personal balance and found wanting."—Testimonies, the home, whether early or late, may deter- work should be done by chosen, outstanding, Vol. I, p. 260. Let us arouse ourselves and mine his decision. This first call generally and well-trained men and women in the contact these Bible School interests. produces one of / two reactions—either out- churches and in the community. Very few —W. A. SCRIVEN. ward pleasure regarding your call, or seeming pastors and district leaders have sufficient time businesslike indifference. The visitor must to do the follow-up work that is necessary. be careful at no time to let the enthusiasm of Generally the follow-up work that is being July 24 the moment cause him to assume too much, done is not sufficient to make the Bible School Decision Time for Bible Corre- and to express himself as to the student's fu- as successful as it should be. If we would take ture conduct. This can change the atmos- from the Bible School the personal work, it spondence School Students phere and put the student on the defense, would be nothing short of doing missionary Today we are blessed with a response to regardless of seeming enthusiasm. This en- work by proxy, which, while better than our message unlike anything in the history of thusiasm can stem from the fact that the stu- nothing, is not good enough. Any corre- our work. Our ministers and Bible instructors dent does not fully comprehend what he has spondence work for souls will be successful are unable to make the number of calls re- been studying, and too quick an offensive on in direct proportion to the, amount of pei- quested from interested people desiring Bible the worker's part at this time can quickly sonal work given to the interest. studies. These calls come as a result of evan- quench the fire. gelistic efforts, radio broadcasts, Bible Schools, Individual members who are not qualified free-litetature distributions and the colporteur The student who seems reserved is in most to do follow-up work may proceed from house cases the student ministry. The fast-growing local conference who realizes what is com- to house and secure enrollments for the school. Bible Schools and Voice of Prophecy interests prehended in the course—an ultimate decision Others may mail out folders on rural routes to join the remnant church. His reticence may are piling up on the desks of the church pas- to cover the countryside. Still other leading tors and the district leaders. be the result of his realization of the serious- laymen may put on spearhead meetings for This prompts a special call for laymen at ness of the decision. This class is won by do- three evenings and thus secure enrollments to this time to unite their efforts ,with the min- ing just the opposite of what they expect us the Bible School, following that interest up isters to help meet the numerous calls for to do. We must show them that we do not three nionths later and in many cases estab- want any semblance of pressure to be ap- Bible studies and personal visits necessary lishing a new church as a result. to harvest into the remnant church the Bible plied. We come to their homes purely to check Last, but not least, is the house-to-house , school enrollees. "The work of God in this upon their progress in the lessons, and to pray work with the Bible School lessons, taking the earth can never be finished until the men and with them, calling their attention to the fact first two lessons to the home with all the in- women comprising our church membership that we feel the need of being personally ac- structions, everything that is in the envelope, rally to the work, and unite their efforts with quainted with our students. and urging people to enroll. Write down the those of ministers and church officers."—Gos- Visiting the students periodically and be- name and street number of the enrollee ,and pel Workers, p. 352. coming acquainted with them will add to their promise to deliver those lessons every week Decision time with the Bible Correspond- lessons a consciousness of a personal message. personally. These lessons can be synchronized ence student is different from that developed When they are invited by the school to' make with a school, the individual picking up ten by way of public efforts or literature ministry. decisions on the doctrines and baptism, these lessons every Sunday, sending them in one Approaching the student for the first time become tangible decisions. For them, the package to the Bible School; the school will finds us on vantage ground, doctrinally, for in representative is a tangible evidence that we return them to the individual, and then each most cases the student becomes definitely ac- are Christians and that others have done what student will receive his envelope with all the quainted with the message through the prog- the student is being invited to do. instructions, offering envelope, fresh from the ress of the course. When we have become definitely ac- school, at the hand of an individual repre- It should be remembered in connection with quainted with the students we visit and have sentative. These contacts are most profitable, decision time for the Bible Correspondence helped them or re-explained some of the points and it has been found that practically 30 per School student that here is a soul who has they do not completely understand and have cent will become members of the church as a been introduced to this message by mail. The seen them progress and complete the course, result of this personal week-by-week contact. personal contact is missing. We must assume then it is well to include them in our plans as In the Southern Union in 1947, 271 indi- the student believes what he fills out in the a people, and in our discussions as to the viduals were baptized who first learned of the lessons, 'but we must be careful in assuming finishing of the work. Let us then tactfully truth through the Bible School. That makes that the student plans to follow the teaching assume that they are going to be with us. about 16 per cent baptized out of all who fin- of the course. To make this second assump- But in general we cannot safely do this until ished the course. The number finishing the tion at the time a personal call is made will, there is the strong bond of personal contact. course is 1677 and during the year students ' in most cases, put the student on the defen- Of course, there are exceptions. contributed offerings to the schools in the sive, and a feeling may develop that there has Let us always remember that as messengers union amounting to $11,992.95. been a Subtile motive in the lessons. He may for God our conduct may determine the de- When we think of the many who are study- resent the fact that he has been persuaded cision of the individual. Bear in mind that ing by correspondence, we can talk of Bible to commit himself through the evidence pre- we have plenty of time to do the job right. , School triumphs today. , Vol. 35, No. 7 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 27 Departmeo.":9 tiring Home and Parent Education in the Home a,.tySchool thob Assoc* lion an 4e.ChriStian Home council .

EDUCATIONAL DAY

T ARE WE TRUE TO OUR TRUST?

Dear Pastors and Elders: "Nothing is of greater importance than the education of our children and young people. The church should arouse, and manifest a'eep interest in this work; for now as never before, Satan and his host are determined to enlist the youth under the black banner that leads to ruin and death."—Counsels to Teachers, p. 165. "Character-building is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings; and never before was its diligent study so important as now. Never was any previous generation called .to meet issues so momentous; never before were young men and young women confronted by perils so great as ,confront them today."—Education, p. 225. Parents have a divinely imposed duty to educate their children in die fear and love of God, which necessarily implies the imparting of religious instruction. Convinced of the reality of the eternal world, the church would be true to neither God nor man if . it did not place emphasis upon Christian education, thus preparing youth to enter into the realities of that eternal world. When Christ insisted that "it would profit a man nothing if he gain the whole world and lose his soul," when .he instructed the young man to "go sell all that he had and to come and follow Him," when He taught very clearly that "we have not here a lasting city:" and that He has "gone to prepare a place for us," He made paramount the impor- tance of man's destiny. The Christian school keeps these higher interests before our youth. Parents and the church are privileged to co-operate in providing the advantages of such a Christian education for their children. Once each year this vital subject is presented to our parents, to our young people and to the church. An opportunity is given to sacrifice for the support of Christian education in the elementary schools. The challenge of the Spirit of prophecy quotation which introduces the symposium is answered in the statements of our student veterans. God grant that each heart will be impressed anew with the importance of this work and the necessity of sustaining it wholeheartedly, both financially and morally. Yours in behalf of the education of our children, ARABELLA J. MOORE.

Fi Scripture Reading an inheritance in that better country, even in Saving Our Children an heavenly."—Ibid., p. 328. "How shall we order the child, and how G. M. MATHEWS "Ift parents could be aroused to a sense of shall we do unto him?" Judges 13:12. the fearful responsibility which rests upon Ever since Adam and Eve, our first parents, "Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: them in the work of educating their children, were driven out of Eden, this world has been and the fruit of the womb is. His reward." more of their time would be devoted to prayer, an unfortunate place in which to rear children. Psalm 127: 3. and less to needless display. They would re- Now it is a thousand-fold more so. Something "Train up a child in the way he should go: flect, and study, and pray earnestly to God for awful is happening to our youth. Seven and when he is old, he will not depart from wisdom and divine aid, to so train their chil- out of eight of them quit attending the Sunday it." Proverbs 22: 6. dren that they may develop characters that schools by the time they are fifteen years of "All thy children shall be taught of the cod will approve."—Ibid., p. 30. age. Fully one half of our population never Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy chil- attend churchLsorne say the average is nearer dren." Isaiah 54: 13. 70 per cent and increasing! Since the homes "The lambs of the flock must be fed, and Suggestive Program have fallen down on the religious instruction the Lord of heaven is looking on to see who of the children, and the public schools main- is doing the work He desires to have done for July 24 tain a strictly secular and sometimes even an the children and youth. The church is asleep, SCRIPTURE READING. antireligious program, the result is a genera- and does not realize the magnitude of this :SONG: "We Are Living, We Are Dwelling," don of religious illiterates—youth who know matter."—Testimonies, Vol. VI, p. 197. No. 359 in Church Hymnal. little about religion and care less. One has "Parents should understand their responsi- BRAYER: For our children and for wisdom in but to observe the language, dress, ambitions, meeting our educational problems. bility, and help their children to appreciate BRIEF INTRODUCTION OP DAY'S TOPIC based reading, and amusements of modern young the great privileges and blessings that God on the boxed insert. (By pastor or elder.) people to become apprehensive as to the possi- has provided for them in educational advan- READING: "Saving Our Children." bility of developing in our youth characters tages. . . . Parents should feel that they have SPECIAL MUSIC or No. 350 in Church "formed according to the divine Likeness" a solemn work to do, and should take hold of Hymnal, "We Have Not Known Thee." amidst such associates. (Christ's Object Las-, it earnestly.,They are to train and mold the SYMPOSIUM: "What a Christian Education sons, p. 332.) characters o their children."—Fundamentals Means After National Service," by veterans. From the Spirit of prophecy we quote: of Christian Education, p. 368. ' READING: "Testing Our Faith in Christian "We are living in an unfortunate age for chil- Education." "True education is that which will train OFFERING: For elementary schools. ' dren. A heavy current is setting downward children and youth for the life that now is, Some: "Heir of the Kingdom," No. 185 in to perdition, and more than childhood's experi- and in reference to that which is to come; for Church Hymnal. ence and strength is needed to press against 28 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948 this current, and not be borne down by it." God's love. The day is turned over to Him! testified to me of the influence of church- —Testimonies, Vol. I, p. 397. During the Bible classes, which occupy about school training on his son. The young What would you think of a parent who one fourth of each day—the first part when man was offered a position on the railroad selected a site for his home in a notoriously minds are fresh and alert—the pupils are fed if he would give up his Sabbath. He faced unhealthy swamp where swarmed mosquitos the bread and water of life and tatight to the superintendent squarely and said, "I bearing the dreaded yellow fever germs, where know, believe, and conform to its teachings. Could never do that, sir." He told his father camouflaged quicksand bogs were prevalent, Throughout the day, in every class, the beauty, that it was the training he had received and where many a man and animal had gone the power, the necessity of religion in the life in our schools that was the basis of his strong down to a horrible death; or near a river is held before the pupils. Submission to God, convictions. He got the job anyway. Another' whose treacherous currents had caused the dependence upon Him for success, communion young span, offered an advancement if he destruction of many who ,attempted to swim with Him in regard to All the experiences of would "report for work on Saturdays" said, in its inviting waters? You would say, "The life—these and all the other elements of sound "That day is not mine to barter with, sir." risks are too great. It would require a miracle spiritual growth run' like golden threads Indeed, it is the day-by-day deepening and to save his family in such a place." True. throughout, the day. The grace at meals, the setting of these convictions and principles that What must the angels think of parents who J. M. V. Society program, which is held every makes the promise of Proverbs 22: 6 come to allow their children to grow up in environ- Wednesday morning and conducted entirely pass. Only the church-school program pro- ments just as unhealthy for spiritual develop- by the children, the prayer bands, the mis- vides the "here a little and there a little" ment as these sites would be for physical sionary work sponsored by the teacher—all which makes these convictions part of the life. health. I venture now the first requirement for are mighty conditioners in the lives of the I was visiting one of our church schools saving our children: We must separate them pupils. We live ourselves into right living, recently when the teacher pointed out the from spiritually unhealthy environments. we do not teach it. Religion must be caught, fact that their playground area was inade- Note carefully the words in this most ear- not taught. In such an environment, with quate. She continued, "Since there was in- nest appeal from God through His servant: , such subject matter, in contemplation of God sufficient room to play I suggested that we "Before the overflowing scourge shall come and the "Great Goodness," the pupil develops might get physical and spiritual exercise at upon the dwellers of the earth, the Lord calls' attitudes, appreciations, interests, and life the same time if we took a part of the noon upon all who are Israelites indeed to prepare habits which bring about the fulfillment of hour to distribute the Prediction Series tracts for that event. To parents He sends the warn- that glorious, heartening premise of Proverbs to the nearby areas." The idea was received ing cry, Gather your children into your own 22: 6: "Train up a child in the way he enthusiastically by the children and now they houses; gather them away from those who are should go: and when he is old, he will not spend several noon hours each week doing disregarding the commandments of God, who depart from it." this type of missionary work. She stated that are teaching and practicing evil. Get out of But some may say, "That sounds good, but the children were anxious to tell of their ex- the large cities as fast as possible. Establish does it really work that way?"- Yes, it does. periences when school resumed after dinner. church schools. Give your children the word There may be seeming exceptions in a par- This is only one example of the way our • of God as the foundation of all their educe- ticular school if checked for a short period, scho'ols train 'the children to love missionary tion."—Ibid., Vol. VI, p. 195. but the statistics which have been carefully work by' actually doing it under the super- The other day a national authority, dis- gathered over a period of years for the de- vision of the teachers. What a powerful in- cussing the problem of juvenile delinquency, nomination as a whole testify most eloquently fluence this has in developing workers with a said, "It is not enough to keep our children to the truthfulness of these assertions. A few vision of the great need of the world for the out of jail!" All Seventh-day Adventists will specific examples will bring courage to all. gospel, and, in ,experiencing the supreme joy promptly and heartily agree with this. Neither One of our most successful' conference presi- of sharing their religion with Others! It is is a negative program sufficient to save our dents tells the story that, as a lad in church not surprising, therefore, to discover that our children. Then, in addition to separating school, he and some of his comrades once de- workers, practically without exception, come them from the corrupting influences of the cided to refuse to take pOrt in a program the from our own schools. world, we must provide an environment with church-school teacher was preparing. Though The natural result of this kind of a pro- positive religious values. from a Christian 'home, he had never con- gram is baptism and active church member- The positive elements necessary for physical fessed Jesus as his personal Saviour. Try as ship—the highest and most profitable type of growth are sunshine, fresh air, food, moisture, she might, the little boys were adamant in evangelism. Children who begin early in the and exercise. In' like manner, certain posi- refusing. The teacher lived in this lad's home church school and come from, homes which tive elements are essential for spiritual growth 'and as the boy went up to his room to retire co-operate with and supplement the program in our children. There must be the warming, that night he had to pass by the teacher's room. of the church school usually find their way melting, subduing rays 'of God's love, the The door was slightly open, and as he passed, into the church by the time they have reached communion with God represented by the he heard the teacher talking aloud. Wonder- the age of thirteen, and most of them not breathing of the plant or animal, the bread ing who could be in there visiting with the only do not apostatize later, but go on to higher and water of life as found in the Word, and teacher, he stopped a moment to listen. The schools and become full-time workers in the the participation of the children in building teacher was talking most earnestly to her dear- advent cause. Conrcersely, the statistics show Christian character and in sharing their faith est Friend; and, as the boy listened, he heard that those who attend the secular schools drop with others, which is spiritual exercise—both his own name mentioned in prayer—a request out of the Sabbath schools about this age, profitable and essential. It will be readily that God would make him a worker in His and gradually slip away from the church and seen that more than Biblical knowledge is cause. The boy hastened to his room, and in its teachings. In each case it is largely a required; that public school education with tears and with a burdened heart he gave his matter of the things that were stressed. Bible added is far short of the plan. To de- life to Jesus. It was the beginning of a de- And so the salvation of our precious chil- velop good plants, one must utilize all of the voted' life for Christ and His church. Heaven dren is largely, in our own hands. It depends essential elements. And so in the develop- alone contains the full ,record of the wonderful largely upon what we do fot them 'during the ment of Christian characters, there must be a things church-school teachers' prayers have early years. Mostly, it depends upon the pro- well-balanced but 'adequate program. wrought in this denomination. I can speak gram of life they live while in the elementary Notice how these required positive ele- accurately of the scores of times when prayer and secondary school period. God's program ments blend into a beautiful whole in the changed things in my schools—when God's requires that we protect them from every evil church-school program. The opening devo- sweet Spirit wrought miracles in the lives of influence possible during these important early tional exercises really open the minds and my students. years, and place them in an environment hearts of the teachers and pupils alike to the At a camp meeting of, the Columbia Union which will prOvide the positive spiritdal pro- warming, melting rays of the sunshine of Conference this past summer a father proudly gram for the building of Christian character. Vol. 35, No. 7 ' THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE What a Christian Education to service, immediate and future. it, too, is a turn to these needy people, and endeavor to call that demands the best there is in me, not aid them in obtaining an education so they • Means After National Service only now but- always, It is' a. call to prepara- can better bring the light of this truth to SYMPOSIUM tion for larger service. their fellow men.—R.L,W., W.W.C. Herein, lies the prime reason for my 'liking Forty'-two months of service in America's "Dear youth, what is the aim and purpose of your life? Are you ambitious for educa- Canadian Union College. I am enthusiastic armed forces tended to crystallize and con- tion? . . The fear' of the Lord lies at the about this college because day by day it opens firm in my heart a covenant which, as a boy, foundation of all true greatness. '. . . Take before 'me ever-widening horizons—new fields I had' made with my Father in heaven. Army your religion into your school-life, into your of service, not only in the distant future but duty in ten States, in the Philippines, and in boarding-house, into all your pursuits. . . . in the immediate present. The principles of, Japan presented varying fortunes. Sometimes You want now to build as you will be able to integrity, purity, and spirituality which are these experiences were a source of discourage- furnish, to so relate yourself to society and to maintained here are' calls to better living that ment, but they always strengthened a hitherto life that you may answer the purpose of God in your creation.'—Fundamentals of Christian demand determined effort. The lives of Chris- ill-defined urge to service in the Master's vine- Education; p. 82. tian teachers and companions, lives worthy of yard. Isaiah's "Here am I, send me" became "Your intellectual and morab faculties are emulation, are a real inspiration. The scholas- a clarion call. ,God's gifts, talents intrusted to you for wise tic, social, and spiritual activities make each Coming to a Seventh-day Adventist college improvement, and you are not at liberty to, day a perfectly complete experience. after these years of Army life Means the op- let them lie dormant for want of proper culti- I like Canadian Union College because I portunity of training myself more efficiently vation. . . . It is for you to determine want to be here. Stepping upon the campus to take this "gospel of the kingdom" to men whether or not the weighty responsibilities like that sergeant in my basic training group that rest upon you shall, be faithfully met, seemed almost like a miracle to me. It was whether or not your efforts shall be well di- the answer to long years of waiting, working, who so contemptuously expressed' the hope rected and your best."—Ibid., p. 86. hoping, and praying.—W.M., C.U.C. that some day I might be called upon to face My time in national service took me two That "eternity" of a little less than three, enemy gunfire with my Bible as my only pro- thirds of the distance around the world, pro- years that I spent in national service was an tection. To me it means the inestimable privi- viding extensive travel in both oceans, and an ever-mounting reminder of 'my lack of formal lege of enlightening those whiterobed Shinto opportunity to set foot on the soil at twenty- schooling. My rehabilitation to school life priests whom I saw prostrate themselves be- four different countries. was a happy, though .a moderately difficult fore the gates of the imperial palace in Tokyo. In these visits I was impressed by the gross one. National service has sharpened my sense Finally, Christian education means that I may darkness of the inhabitants as respects a real of values, and my study is with more purpose some day be better fitted to implant the name knOwledge of true Christianity. than it might ever,have been without it. That of Christ in the hearts of many with whom These, war experiences instilled in my heart I am in a Christian college under veteran I marched, who used that name only in pro- 'a desire for mission service—a desire to present benefits, leads me to believe that at times my fanity.—R.R.S„ U.C. to these' people pure' Christianity as Jesus Uncle Sam and my heavenly Father are re- What does it mean to me to come back to taught it. In preparation for such work fol- lated. Through them I may be able 'to give a Seventh-ddy Adventist-college? It means lowing my discharge, I looked for a, college Biblical, technical, living proof' of the hope coming from the midst of worldly companions that offered three things that I thought neces- that is within me.—G.B.E„ S.M.C, and practices into a holier atmosphere, where sary in training for foreign missionary service: The value of a Christian education is not the Spirit of Jesus Christ is visibly manifested F1RST-A place with a natural environment appreCiated to its fullest extent until one in the countenances, speech, and habits of my for true Christian living, a 'place that starts meets the challenge of the world. Close asso= associates. It means being, able to work to- the student on the right road of living for ciation such as living in army barracks with ward a worth-while goal. In, short, it means Christ. I sought a campus where my student men not of Adventist faith, as well as seeing the salvation of my soul as well as the souls of life could be in harmony with the principle the physical and spiritual needs of those in those I hope to win to Christ when I enter the of Christian living. distant lands, presented many phases of this ministry; for if I had not returned to college, SECOND—I sought a college where the fun- challenge. It was then that I realized most I doubt if I would be a Christian today. damentals of Christianity are taught directly that my two yeMs of 'work in a non-Adventist I , praise God for His wonderful guidance, from the Guidebook—the Bible. • college did not fill the needs of a believer in for leading me back to a Christian institution IC THIRD-I sought a college that emphasizes the imminent return of Jesus. where I can "study to show,[myself] approved, 'service for others, a service that might mean Many times when called upon to defend our a workman that needeth not to be ashamed." presenting truth in the face of overwhelming faith before superiors, or to present Bible truths A.U.C. odds. to inquirers, it was necessary for me to spend During my active military service, circum- With these points in mind, I could only time in study to be sure of facts that should stances often made it necessary for me to per- turn to a Seventh-day 'Adventist college. To be the ready knowledge of every Adventist. form some unpleasant tasks and to experience me, this returning to a Christian school means I am thankful that God has permitted me to some inconveniences. Doubtless this military a preparation for a life for Christ in 'this return home, and has made it possible for me service was appreciated by our national gov- world and for a still better life with Christ to attend Pacific Union College to become ernment and its individual citizens, which has in the world to come.—M.R., W.M.C. more firmly grounded in the Bible truths, that brnn demonstrated in the passage of the G. I. To the casual observer there is a distinct might be better prepared for the medical Bill, whose provisions give veteran's the right to difference between a bugle and a school bell, missionary work.—F.K., P.U.C. attend educational institutions of their choice. a difference which sets them worlds apart. During my service in the Army Nurse The opportunity of attending a Christian edurntional institution is the most precious Yet to me there is an undefinable something Corps it' was never my' privilege to be sta- which the two have in common. True, they tioned with`any Seventh-day Adventist nurses legacy bequeathed to me by the government.. are both instruments of routine, but there is or doctors. Here, where the divine plan is precisely fol- something more to the similarity than that. It is indeed a thrill to return to a Christian lowed, I have received qualities of intrinsic A bit of reflection brings back the stimula- school where we are all working towards one value to well-rounded personal development. tion of the bugle call that set every nerve end, where we cm feel that we are more Having attended a state educational insti- atingle and sent the blood surging through my definitely a part of God's great plan. My ex- tution prior to military service, I am.acquainted veins. It was always a call to service, a chal- perience in the Far East made me feel that I with the comparative values of the two dis- lenge to new and untried things. must prepare myself to work for my Master. tinct theories of education. The Christian And here I detect the common entity which Where better could I obtain the needed prepa- training is greatly superior. Now I am truly the school bell and ,the bugle share. The ration !than in a Christian college? , being prepared for the joy of service in this school bell is not a mere reminder; it is a call This spring my husband and I plan to re- world and in the world to come.—M.T., O.C. 30 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July, 1948 Testing Our Faith in Christian enough to cause us to sacrifice and struggle to vance the cause of Christ. Coming to meet maintain and strengthen them as our founding them are our conferences and churches, seek- Education fathers struggled and sacrificed to establish ing ministers and Bible instructor* mission BY L. R. RASMUSSEN them? Let us test our educational faith by fields seeking sturdy leaders to carry the light No one date deny or ignore the tragic impli- our works. of the Christian message to dark places; schools cations and challenges that the present world Is it surprising that the servant of the Lord seeking teachers who love children and youth; situation holds for the church. We have come has written so much to the remnant church our publishing houses seeking skilled men of to a great testing moment of human history in upon the topic of Christian education, and in character; offices seeking refined Christian which everything is being tried as if by fire. so definite a mariner? Ah, no! There are tre- secretaries; hospitals seeking doctors and The sinister forces arrayed against Christ and mendous issues at stake. The importance of nurses competent to minister to the souls as His church compel us to test our faith and re- absolute fidelity in carrying out the divine well as to the bodies. examine our great commission, define more plan in Christian education is dearly stated: This is our faith in our schools! Let us clearly our doctrinal position, and justify the "With us, as with Israel of old, success in proclaim our loyalty to the Christian education existence of the institutions established and education depends upon fidelity in carrying of this denomination. The final measure of conducted by the church. out the Creator's plan."—Education, p. 50. success of any educational system is the char- If ever there was a cause worthy of the faith "The well-being, the happiness, the religious acter of its product. Can we not each and and confidence of the remnant church, it is life of the families with which the youth are every one emphatically say that the product of the cause of Christian education. The church's connected, the prosperity and piety of the our educational program justifies our con- stability, growth, and vitality can be measured church of which they are members, are largely tinued confidence in Christian education? by the faith and interest it takes in the sal- dependent upon the religious education, that Does it not justify the millions of dollars which vation and Christian training of its own chil- they receive in our schools."—Counsels to have been spent in establishing and maintain- dren and youth. We have a definite eternal Teachers, p. 497. Such stirring words should ing these schools the past seventy-five years? faith. To us this faith is our most precious surely lead each one of us to test his own Where would our denominational work be possession—our very life. This faith of ours faith in the divine plan of Christian education. today if it were not for our schools? Our is not something that is to end with us. In these solemn days—solemn both because educational system is one of the major factors It must go forth to others, to create within of the near approach of the consummation of which has contributed largely to the external them this same definite saving faith. our hopes in the second advent, and because growth as well as to the internal strength and We are the trustees of the faith for our of the great and stirring events now so near at doctrinal unity of this movement. Wherever children and youth. In us, then, the church hand, which are to precede that consumma- we have a strong school, we have a strong of yesterday and the church of tomorrow meet. tion—we cannot afford to come short in the church. Wherever we have a strong confer- We are, in this our day, living in a world of salvation of our own children and youth. We ence, there you will find a strong educational disillusionment, in a disintegrating world in the homeland have little conception of the work. Wherever you find a strong mission, wherein the inner chaos of the mind is more struggles and tribulations facing our brethren there you will find a 'strong school program. tragic than any outer material chaos. We in other lands in conducting our denomina- There is no such thing in this cause as a live in a world that has lost faith not only tional schools. But even under trying circum- strong church, a strong conference, a strong in God but also in man. In such an age the stances, they carry on, realizing that our division or mission, where there is a weak church is compelled to test its faith, not only schools are the greater part of our mission pro- educational program. The church that cannot its faith in 'its historical doctrinal positions, gram. Let us, test our own faith on this one save and train its own young people can never butalso its faith in its institutions. statement: "Nothing is of greater importance hope to bring a saving message to the world. In this crisis hour let us re-examine and test than the education of our children and young There should ever be a close relationship be- our faith in that great institution of the people."—Counsels to Teachers, p. 165. tween the church and the school. church, the Christian school. Let us test our To the believers in the Advent faith, to the Let us, individually, test our own faith. loyalty to our proclamation that we believe believers in Christian education, let us pro- What are we doing about this question 'of and have faith in Christian education. The claim our loyalty to Christian education by Christian education? willingness of men and women to give time our works. Let us challenge our faith and 1. Are we willing to give of our means for and thought, money and energy to the estab- works by investigation. We can look with a its support? lishment and maintenance of a church school degree of pride upon that record. 2. Are we willing to give our boys and is one test of what they think about the insti- Our schools stand at the center of the- girls to be trained? tution of Christian education. But the great- church's life and activity. Wherever our work 3. Are we, as church members, making est test of faith in the educational program of has been established, our schools have been provision for all of our youth? the church is the test of whether we have established. On every side, from the Chris- 4. Are we helping to make our denomina- faith strong enough to send all of our sons tian homes and local churches comes an ever- tional schools truly Christian schools? The and daughters to, our own schools. increasing stream of fine young people to these church schools, academies, colleges, are our What do we say when we state our belief schools. They come with eager minds to first responsibility. in Christian education? Do we say that we search after knowledge and truth and a Chris- Christian schools can die. Many Christian have faith strong enough to follow the divine tian philosophy of life. They come by the schools have died. Christian schools may still instruction and make provisions for all of our thousands, by the tens of thousands. They die. They die because the churches responsible youth? No people have had greater faith in come with burning hearts, seeking a cause big for their life fail to meet that responsibility. Christian education than the pioneers of this enough and holy enough to demand their all, The Christian schools cannot survive without movement. These far-sighted men and women and to have pointed out to them the many a Christian constituency. In turn, the Chris- established colleges, academies, and church fields ripe unto harvest. They hear in these tian schools are responsible to the churches. schools. They recognized that the youth of Christian schools the divine voice asking, Churches can die. Many churches have the church constitute its greatest heritage and "Who will go for Me?" Thank God for the died. Churches may continue to die. Some asset, and that the very center of the work of youth who have heard this voice in the have died for lack of Christian leadership, It the church is the training and saving of these Christian school. is the responsibility of the Christian schools youth. They saw that the great gospel com- Then we look with pride as the order to educate Christian leadership for the mission to go into all the world could not be changes. Out in every direction from the churches: leadership in the pulpit, leadership accomplished without an army of workers gates of these Christian institutions go young in the pew, leadership in the mission fields. trained in the church's own schools. men and women, poised, keen, strong in faith, Ours is a precious heritage. Let us build, Where are we today? Do we have as strong noble and courageous. They are eager now to anew around the two institutions—the church a faith in our schools? Is our faith strong take their place and to do their share to ad- and the school. Vol. 35, No. 7 THE' CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 31

no contact with her for the past seven or eight years. This woman was without food or sufficient clothing, her husband having been taken away by the soldiers." So impressed was Brother Ismond with this woman's -story that he wrote a letter to the president of the Queensland Conference, giving him the name of the mother, and the Voice of Prophecy Progress the stand they have taken for the Sabbath city where she was supposed to. have lived truth. Work has been arranged with the bank The Bible Correspondence School in Africa years ago—the city of Brisbane. so that they can fully obey the Lord, and they The chances seemed small that the mother is moving on into very large fields of endeavor. are looking forward to being baptized soon. - While we now have over 125,000 students, could be located after so many years and with We have rejoiced to see how firmly native such meager information. Days and weeks we believe it is possible to increase this num- men take their stand for the truth. A man ber to 200,000 students by the end of 1948. passed without any word 'from Australia. who has worked for twenty years in the Occasionally the woman would come again We are putting forth our greatest advertising Forestry Department in the Cape Province campaign, which will be launched during for help: There were days when she and her wrote us as follows: "I could no longer dis- Child had nothing warm to eat, and their the month of March. We have discovered obey God by breaking the Sabbath, so I re- that the more we advertise and acquaint the lot was a hard one. signed from my position at the end of Decem- Then one day a telegram came, and later public with what we are doing, the greater ber, and last Sabbath I kept my first Sabbath. is the desire on their part to study our lessons. a letter, with the happy news that the mother I do not know what I will do, but this I had been located, and is a faithful Adventist We have now established our own printing will do—I will serve God and keep the Sab- department with electric press equipment, sister in Brisbane. She had remarried since bath as long as I live, if God will help me." her daughter had last heard from her, and is and we hope we have overcome our greatest One of our greatest inspirations is to see handicaprthat of getting our lessons out to known to our people in Brisbane by her the number of young people, among all races, present name, but when she was approached -the public. who, after studying our lessons, take their So many letters flow in to us every day from to help locate a Mrs. Trebuhina, it was stand for this truth. Our schools through- learned that she herself bore that name before our readers telling us of their desire to keep out South Africa will have many of these the Sabbath that we are convinced God has her last marriage. She is making it possible young people in training this year. Helder- for her daughter and family to join her in multitudes of honest souls in this country berg, Good Hope, and Bethel Training Col- who are seeking the light of truth. One of Australia. What a happy reunion it will be lege will have many students of the Voice of for them! our students, a minister of one of the large Prophecy. They are studying to become denominations in this country, has recently workers for the Lord, and we can say that A Fever Rebuked accepted the truth, and when speaking at a number more would have entered school For some years the members of our Hope one of our camp meetings, he made this this year if arrangements could have been Bay, East Jamaica, church had been giving statement: "I am sure there are many minis- made in time. ters in the various ,denominations who are literature to a prominent member of one of convinced that God has more light for them, the other churches in the community. His and they will accept the light of this truth response was indifferent. However, a few when it comes to them." Then he added God Moves in a Mysterious months ago this man went to the United significantly, "But, brethren, remember, it Way States for several months. While there he means much for a minister to confess that he An unusual and very interesting incident began to take the Voice of Prophecy Bible has been wrong, and change his whole life has recently come to light as a by-product of Course and soon became convinced of the practices. You should pray for them most the distribution of the relief clothing which truth., He wrote home to the leader of the earnestly." has brought joy and comfort to hundreds of Hope Bay church, expressing his conviction Among the many recent, outstanding ex- needy workers, believers, and others in our and requesting baptism for himself and his periences, let us refer to a few: field. wife upon his return to Jamaica. A lady who works in a large department The story comes to us from Brother W. ' Recently this than returned to Hope Bay store in one of our cities learned of this tntth Ismond, of the Northeast China Union. This and began to plan for baptism. The date through the Voice of Prophecy. When en- field received an abundant supply of relief was set—an early Sunday morning in Decem- couraged to go to her employer to seek to clothing, and distribution was made to our ber. The Sabbath preceding this date he get the Sabbath off, she made this contact, people wherever they could ,be reached. Be- and his wife attended all of the services of and then wrote: "I want to tell you of the cause of the liberal amount it was decided to the day. But in the middle of the following wonderful experience I have had, and how allocate some of this clothing to needy Rus- night he was stricken with a raging fever. God has blessed the interview I have had sians stranded in Mukden, and as soon as When day dawned he was no better. The with my manager. I have been given the this became known many came for help. wife sought the leader of the church, who Sabbath off, and I no longer, have the 'mark Brother Ismond writes: "They came,—men, came to see the sick man. Prayer for his of the beast' in my hand. For a long time I women, and children—with shoes torn and relief followed, but the fever dung tenaciously. had been praying that God would send me clothing in rags; and the tales of woe that However, so determined to follow his Lord light from His word, for I had been dissatis- reached our ears stagger the imagination. We in baptism was the sick man that he decided fied with my experience. I praise the Lord heard of fathers and sons being snatched to have the brethren help him to the river and for the peace that has come to me since / from their families . . . leaving the Women be baptized regardless of the burning fever. began to keep the Sabbath."' This lady has and children at the mercy of the soldiers, in Even by the riverside the fever continued now been baptized. poverty and want, a prey to disease, cold, to possess him. Then he and his wife went Two sisters, living in one of our large and hunger. They told of cases where mothers down into the water for immersion. When cities and who- have been connected with a lacked clothing to cover the bodies of their Brother Jackson came up from the water, bank for some years, learned of the Voice of children for burial. his fever was entirely gone. God had honored Prophecy lessons through the newspapers. "One of these unfortunate women came to his faith. He was completely healed. Later They write that they had tried every form us with her little boy of five years, and, after in the day he was back at his work. Today of religion in the country but could find no receiving her portion of relief clothing, told Brother and Sister Jackson rejoice in the satisfaction or peace of soul. A letter at hand us that her mother is now in Australia but blessed third angel's message. today expresses their joy and happiness in that she had lost her address. She had had —S. C MYERS. 32 THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE July,'1948 A Look at the Philippines Advent Message in Germany in 1948 SPECIAL DAYS AND (Continued from page 5) OFFERINGS Yesterday two of our colporteurs dropped JULY 3 given the proclamation of the gospel, many of into the Publishing House to pick up a few our brethren have been emboldened to engage Home Missionary Day books. One of the brethren who came in again in renewed 'missionary activity. We has been canvassing in Manila. and he has Topic: The Unique Function of the Bible Correspondence School know that much remains to be done, and it had several requests for the book Education. can be clone. However we are very grateful It seems that there is quite a demand for JULY 17 to ; the Lord for the growth that we have this book. He told me that in the Sto. Tomas Midsummer Offering experienced in the year 1947. From approxi- University, which' is probably the largest Cath- JULY 24' mately one third of our brethren we have olic university in the Philippines, they are Educational Day been able to receive reports of their devoted using Mrs. White's book, Education in their and Offering for and faithful service in our Home Missionary classes: I thought this was most, unusual Elementary Schools work. During the past year they have 'made and very interesting. Probably because they 120,825 visits, 200,827 Bible readings, were are using it there, many people have become given, 52,503 missionary letters have been interested in this book. The other brother written, and 24,355 souls have been brought who came in also had an interesting experi- Fred's father was a teacher for this parti- into our general meetings. The fruit of this ence to tell about canvassing the Dean of cular body and had been trained in their personal endeavor on the part of our be- Baler Institute. He was selling the book The schools, acquiring a knowledge of English, lievers amounted to 2,361 souls that have been Great Controversy in the English language, mathematics; and Bible. When he died, Fred baptized as a result. This is about 42 per cent and the gentleman he was canvassing be- began to study the books he left behind; and, of the total, number baptized in 1947. Thus came unusually interested in it. It turned as he read the Bible, the Spirit of God re- we have every reason to rejoice and to be out that this man was the head of the history vealed to him the Sabbath truth as well as grateful for the gracious leadership and the department. He insisted that he have the copy health reform, and its relation to unclean help of the Lord during the past year; and we that our colporteur was using as' a sample, foods. Then he began to inquire concerning look forward to the future with great courage and, of course, our brother allowed him to others who believed what he had had im- inasmuch as we are convinced that we may have that particular book. He asked Brother pressed upon his mind. After many inquiries ask great things and expect great things from Mora, the colporteur, to 'speak before his he foundthat on an island across a very treach- Him. "Fear not, 0 land; be glad and rejoice: class. Our brother took his prospectus and erous stretch of water lived an old man by the for the Lord will do great things." Joel 2: 21. gave a short lecture and_canvass to the class name of Mark. This man, so he was told, kept the seventh day of the week as his Sabbath, As to the circulation of our religious litera- and was able to sell fifteen copies of the book, ture, we were unfortunately not in a. position The Great Controversy. Brother Mora told and did not eat pork or shellfish. With this knowledge Fred set out in his dugout for to carry this through on a larger scale be- me that they are using our book as a textbook cause the printing and the publication of litera- in their history studies, and he also stated the island of Lopeio. On arrival he found Mark a genial old fellow and eager to tell ture was restricted on the one hand with re- that in that same institution they are using gards to paper, and on the other also by the Modern Medical Counselor in connection with him all he knew of the advent message he had learned to love.. But Mark was old when prohibition of the authorities. The fact that their home economics department. the General Conference was able to supply us These experiences were very heart warm- the truth came to him, and he could not tell Fred all he wanted to know. How he with paper enabled us to materialize some of ing to me and I thought you would enjoy our plans which we had in -mind, and we reading them. Probably during the year 1948 longed that someone else were there to give this seeker for truth the light he so much greatly hope to make furthei progress along we will have many more of this nature to this line in the new year. The first small send to you. The new year promises 'to be desired! Between them they decided that they would make a request of the God of heaven books that- have been printed—such as, a most thrilling one here in the Philippines, Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, Steps and as we begin to produce books in the dia- that on the morrow Mark's teacher would pay him a visit, so that they could study to- to Christ, and the pamphlet entitled, The' lects, and build up our colporteur force even Adventists,—have not only been purchased by further, with the blessing of God, there should gether. The neto morning both were eager OUT own brethren of the faith, but many of be almost no limit to what may be accom- and expectant, waiting for the Lord to an- swer their prayer. And He did not fail them, these books have been loaned out to friends plished in the distribution of literature. Ac- and acquaintances, who by this means have cording to the morning paper today, the busi- for during the middle of the morning a canoe was sighted making its way toward their is- become interested in the truth and also have ness outlook here in the Philippines is even been won to the faith. The series of Licht- brighter for the year 1948 than it was dur- land. Both men went down to the beach to welcome the visitors; and there, with others blicke ("Light Flashes") with twelve subjects ing the past year. So with these opportunities on the message, which are similar to the before us, I ask that you in, the Department on the canoe, was Sam Dick, the man they were waiting for. You can imagine what a "Good News" series is now being printed. in Washington remember in prayer the pub- Though we could dispose of an edition ten lishing work in this field. thrill this was for Fred. After the preliminary handshake all around, the trio retired to the times the volume that we are now planning, house of Mark, and there studied long into we will be, nevertheless, very happy and, the night, grounding Fred in the ways of grateful if we can actually produde the edition God Said "Go" and It Went the Sabbath mission. that has been 'provided. Though the possi- Fred is a native of the island of Epi in the Fred returned to his island home thrilled bilities may fluctuate in these changing times New Helandes, and it was through this young with all he had learned and heard. Naturally, —and they affect the Home Missionary work— man that God chose to work in fulfillment of he could not keep quiet, but began proclaim- there remains this certainty: The methods the command given' by Jesus so long ago. ing his new-found faith far and wide. By may change, but the work of the Lord must For many years we had sought ways and the time this came to our ears, there was a go forward. means to establish our work on the island of Sabbath school of fifty meeting each Sabbath -MAX BUSCH. Epi, but the way seemed hedged about on morning after having been taught the lesson every side. More.than that, another mission daily by Fred, who had been instructed on "We must be as courteous to a man as we body claimed that it was their island, and no what to do and how to do it by his newly are to a picture, to which we are willing to other mission was to operate thereon. So fat, found friends. give the advantage of a good' Fght."—Ralph they had seen that they had their way. —A. D. PlETZ. Waldo Emerson. •