Tbe Cburth nice& agtte 
Vor, REV �
JANUARY, 1927 �
No. 1 
The Church Officers' Gazette 
Issued monthly 
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REVIEW AND HERALD PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION 
at Takoma Park, Washington, D. C., U. S. A. 
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- M. E. KERN, J. A. STEVENS 
EDITORIAL COUNCIL 
0. MONTGOMERY �
C. K. MEYERS �
B. E. BEDDOE 
Entered as second-class matter, January 20, 1919, at the post office at 
Washington, D. C., under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. 
Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in 
Sec. 1403, Act of October 3, on, authorized on June 22, 1918. 
Cburcb Mare Qietterat 
ifiustruction Alepartment 
Special Appointments for the Month of January 
Christian Home Day �
 January 1 
Elementary School Offering �
 January 29 
Maintaining Our Confidence, Steadfast Unto the End 
WHILE it is commendable to study the truths of God's Word, 
and thereby gain fresh views of these everlasting gems sparkling 
with the luster of heaven's light, it is quite a different thing for 
one to allow his mind to become' unsettled, his 'confidence' to be 
shaken in the fundamental truths God has given us, brought 
together so beautifully hi the setting of the third angel's mes-
sage,, by some new and startling view, even though ostensibly 
it may be presented as "advanced light" on the message itself. 
The foundation principles of the third angel'd message are to 
stand firmly and solidly amid the Babylon 'of voice's down 
through the crises to the very end, as these false voices cry, 
"i Lo, here," and, " Lo, there." Jesus forewarned us of this 
very time: 
." If any man shall say unto you, Lo, here, is Christ, or there; 
believe it not. For there shall arise false Christs, and false 
prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch 
that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect." 
Matt. 24: 23, 24. " Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth 
sure [" steady," margin], having this seal, The Lord knoweth 
them that are His. And, Let every one that nameth the name 
of Christ depart from iniquity." 2 Tim. 2: 19. 
In the early church, Satan sought, through false teachers, 
to bring in new theories, specious philosophies purported to be 
an improvement of the gospel, suggesting new phases of belief, 
yet in very fact that was a studied scheme of Lucifer to unsettle 
the minds of those who had received the gospel of life from the 
lips of the apostles. God had forewarned His people of this 
very thing, naming it the "mystery of iniquity." Many de-, 
parted from the faith, being beguiled by what seemed to be new 
and startling, and advanced truths. Yet it was out of this very 
commingling of good and evil that the papacy developed. Still 
God preserved unto Himself a true church that remained stead-
fast. 
" They that gladly received his word were baptized: . . and 
they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellow-
ship." Acts 2: 41, 42. " We are made partakers of Christ, if 
we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end." 
Heb. 3: 14. 
And for us down here at the, end to remain steadfast means 
the resistance of Satan's wily plots to seduce us away from the 
fortress of truth Christ has provided for us in the truths of 
the third angel's message. 
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as 
a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour; 
whom resist [by being] steadfast in the faith." 1 Peter 5: 8, 9. 
We are in the "shaking time." But God has provided for 
us a sure foundation, a platform solid and firm, upon which we 
are to stand. Te the one whose heart has been enlightened by 
the precious truths of the threefold message, to step from this 
firm platform means confusion, bewilderment, and, unless the 
steps are quickly retraced, utter ruin. 
" I was shown three steps,— the first, second, and third angels' 
messages. Said my accompanying angel, Woe to him who shall 
move a block or stir a pin of these messages. The true under-
standing of these messages is of vital importance. The destiny 
of souls hangs upon the manner in which they are received.' 
 
I was again brought down through these messages, and saw how 
dearly the people of God had purchased their experience. It had 
been obtained through much suffering and severe conflict. God 
had led them along step by step, until He had placed them upon 
a solid, immovable platform. . . . Some stepped off the plat-
form to examine it, and declared it to be.laid wrong. But I saw 
that nearly all stood firm upon the platform, and exhorted those 
who had stepped off to cease their complaints; for God was the 
Master Builder, and they were fighting against Him."—"Early 
Writings," pp. g'58, 059. 
" Cast not away therefore your confidence, which bath great 
recompense of reward." Heb. 10: 35. 
Any movement, any new doctrine advocated, that discredits, 
ignores, belittles, or unsettles confidence in the truths making 
up this platform of truth devised and wrought out by God for 
His people in these last days, may at once be known for a 
surety to belong to Satan's specious beguilings, and' therefore 
must be resisted by those who would remain "steadfast in the 
faith." 
"There is no work int our world so great, so-sacred, and so 
glorious, no work that God honors so much as this gospel work" 
[the third angel's message]. The message presented at this 
time is the last message of mercy for a fallen world. Those who 
have the privilege of hearing this message, and who persist in 
refusing to heed the -warning, east away their last hope of 
salvation."—" Testimonies," Pol. VI, p. 19. 
" There is to be no change in the general features of our work. 
It is to stand as clear and distinct as prophecy has made it. . 
No line of truth that has made the Seventh-day Adventist people 
what they are, is to be weakened. We have the•old landmarks of 
truth, experience, and duty, and we are to stand firmly in defense 
of our principles, in full view of the world."— Id., p. 17, 
Certainties of the Advent Hope 
MEN have ofttimes gathered their money and assembled their 
forces to start some large manufacturing interest. They have 
'frequently built up colossal concerns:' They laid what appeared 
to be wise and,permanent plans. Many people have been in-
duced to invest their time, interest, and money in these various 
enterprises, and in a short period of tithe the -whole thing would 
become insolvent. �
' 
I dare say that many readers of the GAZETTE can recall large 
organizations springing up with hundreds and thousands, and 
mettquickly associating themselves together with all their secret 
signs and attractive regalia. For a tithe it would appear that' 
they would sweep everything in their pathway, but suddenly 
and Mysteriously the whole organization came to naught. God 
says, "It is not in man . . . to direct his steps." 
There is a wonderful degree of comfort, however, and lasting 
satisfaction in fully identifying oneself with a growing, win-
ning, triumphant movement. To ,be able to give one's life, time, 
and money to an enterprise as Certain and sure as the everlast-
ing hills,"brings to one a joy, hope, and confidence that is of 
inestimable value, and opens the way to the greatest responsi-
bility, and lays' upon one the highest trust of anything in this 
world: 
EDITOR 
ASSOCIATE EDITORS 
T, E. BOWEN 
2 �
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
In associating ourselves wholeheartedly with the advent move: 
 
ment and investing our time and money in its onward progress, 
we may know that we are dealing in certainties and eternal 
sureties, for Jesus the Lord is not only the author and finisher 
of this cause, but He is likewise the " surety " of our personal 
and, eternal salvation. 
We are not following cunningly devised fables or plans laid 
by man, in associating ourselves in this movement, but are 
giving heed to the "sure word of prophecy." 2 Peter 1: 16-21. 
This movement was not started by a group of men wanting to 
lead some enterprise or build up a personal concern. It was 
born of God and of the eternal certainties of prophecy. It 
came at the right time and in the right way. It is, doing the 
very work foretold by the holy prophets, and the mighty God 
is leading, not a few men, but an organized movement, on to 
certain triumph. 
It must be evident that any religious movement claiming God 
as its author should find in the Word of God itself prophetical 
utterances so clearly outlining their work, giving such a de-
scription of their beginning and course, that all those giving 
heed to the "sure word" need not be left to conjecture regard-
ing it, or their own personal relationship to the movement. All 
through past ages, God has never left His people in perilous 
uncertainty. He says, "The meek will He guide in judgment: 
and the meek will He teach His way." Ps. 25: 9. 
In the book of Revelation, particularly the thirteenth and 
fourteenth chapters, we find a gospel message outlined that is 
to go to every nation of earth. The burden of the message is, 
" The hour of God's judgment is come." It is a ringing call 
to all men "to worship God," to keep His commandments, and 
thus turn away from an apostate power. 
All history is silent regarding such a world-wide movement 
and message being given in past centuries. The remnant church 
who now keep the commandments of God and have the testimony 
of Jesus, claim to be giving just such a message. From their 
very beginning, the Seventh-day Adventists believed God raised 
them up to proclaim this Heaven-appointed message. 
The advent movement arose at the precise time the prophetic 
elm* struck the hour for its appearance. Nearly two thousand 
years ago the prophet John saw the movement and outlined the 
message the people were to give, indicating their disappointment 
and work. Rev. 10: 9-11. He gave thy very words they would 
bear to all the world. Rev. 14: 6, 7. This message was based 
on the prophecy of Daniel, particularly chapter 8. 
In proclaiming the hour of God's judgment, it became neces-
sary to urge upon all people everywhere the obedience to God's 
commandments, the standard of His moral government and 
unchangeable rule. 
The reasons advanced by Seventh-day Adventists for their 
belief that they are God's chosen people to proclaim this last 
warning and saving gospel message are sound and altogether 
Biblical, and in perfect accord with historical fact. It is the 
most solemn and sacred trust and highest honor to be connected 
with this closing message, for it is the last message mortal ear 
will ever hear. The servant of God, commenting on the third 
angel's message in Revelation 14, says: 
"This is the last message. There are no more to follow; 
no more invitations of mercy to be given after this message 
shall have done its work. What a trust! What a responsibility 
is resting upon all to carry the words of gracious invitation."—
"Testimonies," Vol. 17, pp. 206, 207. 
This is no ordinary message. It is God's last call to men to 
repent of their sins and keep the commandments of God. It is 
not based upon false visions of men, perverted ideas, or vain 
philosophy, but upon facts — on the facts of fulfilled and fulfill-
ing prophecy, that which we have heard with our ears, which 
our eyes have seen and our very hearts have felt. 
In the language of the true servant of God, all who have 
followed the sure word of prophecy and are established in 
"the present truth" may by living faith join in saying, 
" In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every 
step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! 
As.I see what God has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, 
and with confidence in Christ as leader. We have nothing to 
fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord 
has led us."—"Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers," 
page 81. 
There are many in the past who have endeavored to move a 
" block " or " pin " of our firm platform, and establish a new 
faith, but like the works of man, they soon come to naught. 
None need, seek to tear away the foundation of our faith. It 
has stood every test for threescore years. " Other foundation 
can no man lay than that is laid." 1 Cor. 3: 11. So with strong, 
growing faith we may hold the beginning of our confidence 
steadfast unto the end. 
" Words of power have been sent by God and by Christ to 
this people, bringing them out from the world, point by point, 
into the clear light of present truth. With lips touched by holy 
fire, God's servants have proclaimed the message. The divine 
utterance has set its seal to the genuineness of the truth pro-
claimed."—" Gospel Workers," p. 807. 
G. W. WELLS. 
What Will You Do When the Crisis Comes? 
SOME have as yet experienced no real trial because of want. 
They practise no self-denial in preparation for times of distress. 
Many of us, because God allows us to feel what want is, com-
plain, though we well know that we experience nothing of the 
long, weary hours of toil required in days gone by to obtain a 
livelihood. Many continually desire higher wages, lighter work, 
and shorter hours. Seventh-day Adventists are by no means 
free from this spirit. It creeps in everywhere. Sometimes 
workers in the cause are no exception to the general rule. The 
hardships and privations endured by those who sacrificed to 
proclaim the message in its early days, are unknown to most 
of our people today; and many have lost sight of the word 
which says, " We must through much tribulation enter into 
the kingdom of God." 
But the crisis will come some day, and, prepared or unpre-
pared, we shall be tested. Business interests will then be swal-
lowed up in ruin. Commerce will be no more at all, and mer-
chants and tradesmen will stand aghast at the ruin. Revelation 
18. The dollar will be as worthless as was the mark. There 
will be no salaries then, no income, no tithe. We may think 
we cannot get along with less than what we have now, but then 
we shall. Those who today have but the barest necessities, will 
then be in much better condition to meet this time of trouble 
than those who have had an abundance. We must all learn to 
do with less and less until we are purified, or perish from among 
the people of God. 
Perhaps we may think we would not do as unbelieving Israel 
did, but we shall End some day that those who look for hooks 
to hang their doubts upon, will find plenty of them. Faith and 
trust and unselfish devotion to the cause of God now, are the 
only means by which we can know that we shall not later be 
classed with the unbelieving and the abominable. Better times, 
higher salaries, shorter hours, and lighter work will not prepare 
us for what is coming. 
We are told that there is an " appalling indifference to the 
needs of a world perishing for lack of a knowledge of the truth 
for this time—many to whom has been committed the saving 
truths of the third angel's message fail of realizing that salva-
tion of souls is dependent upon the consecration and activity 
of God's church. Many are using their blessings in the service a 
of self." �
I. A. CRANE. 
"A MAN of strict fidelity is a valuable steward, though he 
may not possess as great accomplishments as do some others. 
One who seeks to advance the truth for the glory of God and 
the good of souls, without respect of persons and regardless of 
his own ease, interest, or honor,— such a man should be highly 
esteemed, though he may not possess learning or eloquence. He 
is God's nobleman. In the sight of Heaven, he presents the 
highest type of manhood."—Mrs. E G. White, in Review and 
Herald, Jan 1, 1884. 
" CHRIST never asks of us such busy labor 
As leaves no time for resting at His feet; 
The waiting attitude of expectation 
He ofttimes counts a service most complete." 
" Goy has a song to teach us, and when we have learned it 
amid the deep shadows of affliction, we can sing it ever 
afterward." 
THE CHURCH OFFICERS? GAZETTE �
3 
jporne Olissionarp /Department 
Suggestive Program for Christian Home Day 
OPENING Saxe: "Homeward Bound," No. 740 in "Christ in 
Song." 
Responsive Reading: Psalm 127. 
Prayer. 
Church Missionary Report. 
Offering. 
Children's Song: "jewels;' No. 852 in "Christ in Song," or 
Congregational Song, "Guard Thy Children," No. 735 in 
" Christ in Song." 
Reading: "The Home as a School." 
Bible and Testimony Study: " The Family Altar." 
Recitation: "A Heap o' Livin'," by a young person. 
Talk: "Health Training in the Home." 
Five-Minute Talk by the Elder: " Help for the Home." 
Closing Song: " One Sweetly Solemn Thought," No. 882 in 
" Christ in Song." 
Note to Leaders 
Christian Home Day presents us with an opportunity to em-
phasize the importance of the home in the work of God. Prayer-
ful and careful preparation should be made to make this service 
of the greatest benefit to all members of the home, old and 
young. It is not sufficient that we say to ourselves that the 
home and parental training are of great importance. We must 
seek to perceive the problems of the home, and to help patents 
and children make their own homes what God means them to be, 
"little heavens here to go to heaven in." 
The program we outline, and for which material is furnished, 
is only suggestive. Where leaders see ways in which it can be 
made better for the needs of their churches, let them alter the 
program as seems best. But seek, in any case, to give all classes 
of home members — parents, youth, and children—some place 
on the program, so that they will feel that every one has a part 
to act in making the Christian home. 
We are sending to the pastor, or leader, for himself and con-
gregation, a leaflet descriptive of the work the Home Commission 
is doing for. parents. This work, however, requires an active 
participation of parents in study, and Should enlist the hearty 
co-operation of all officers of the church. This help is contained 
in the periodical, Parents' Lessons, issued monthly at the yearly 
subscription price of $1.50. It helps to prepare parents to be 
teachers, by training them in story-telling, nature study, health 
teaching, child training, home-making, and in the special prob-
lems of adolescence—"the teens " of their children. Mothers' 
Societies are formed for encouraging regular and systematic 
study of these lessons, and fathers participate in them with their 
wives at home. Or parents may study them at home, if they are 
isolated so there can be no society. 
Let the leader explain to parents this work, and urge upon 
them the value and necessity of studying to be better, parents. 
The spirit of prophecy says that parents must "receive a train-
ing." Here, is an opportunity for training. If the church has 
not as yet a Mothers' Society, let steps be taken to start one. If 
it has, let this day be made to foster its work and increase its 
membership. It will be well to have some member of the 
Mothers' Society speak briefly of the benefits the members are 
receiving from it. Use the testimonial here printed, " Parents' 
Work and the Message." Then at the close of the meeting 
distribute to each family the leaflet entitled, " The Home." 
The Home as a School 
A. W. SPALDING 
Do you want me to name you the greatest educational institu-
tion in the world'? It is not Harvard, nor Oxford, nor Heidel-
berg; it is not any of the famous schools in theology, or medi-
cine, or music, or mechanics; it is not your denominational 
school, nor academy, nor church school. The greatest educa-
tional institution in the world is the home. 
Maybe you didn't know that. Maybe you don't believe that. 
Maybe you are saying, "Oh, that's only a figure of speech. Of 
course we can call the home a school, but actually we know, 
if our children are to get an education, we have to have real 
schools, froM kindergarten to college, and teachers who do 
nothing else but teach." 
No, no! brother, sister. I am not dealing in figures of 
speech; I am not passing a handsome compliment to parents. 
I mean, in the actual sense of the word, and in its fullest sense, 
that the home is a school, and the most important school in 
the world. We get to ourselves twisted ideas of what a school 
is, when we limit it to a room with patented desks, and dis-
eiplined children, and a pleasant young woman surrounded by 
books, maps, and an air of authority. That is a school, too, 
but it is not the only school, nor the only kind of school, nor 
is it necessarily the best school. School is any place where 
something is taught; and the school of most importance is the 
school where the ideals of life are shaped, where the habits 
of life aro fixed, and where characters are determined. 
God made the, home to be the first school And it is still, 
in its form, its natural facilities, and its inherent methods, the 
best model of school anywhere to be found. Make a home of 
the kind that God intends, and you have a school after which 
every other school, from the most elementary to the most ad-
vanced, may do well to pattern. 
" The system of education instituted at the beginning of the 
world, was to be a model for man throughout all after-time." 
"Under changed conditions, true education is still conformed 
to the Creator's plan, the plan of the Eden school."—"Educa-
tion," pp. zo, 80. 
Consider for a moment some of the features of the home as 
a school which ought equally to be included in the plan of every 
school. First„ there are comparatively few pupils to the 
number of teachers, thus permitting each child to have individ-
ual attention. Second, the pupils differ in age, thus permitting 
and encouraging the older children to help in the teaching of 
the younger. Third, the pupils are all the day in contact with 
the teachers, so that teaching by example, and not only by pre-
cept, is sustained and continuous. Fourth, the teaching is in 
practise, not merely in theory and by book. Fifth, the cur-
riculum is comprehensive, covering the physical, the intellec-
tual, the social, and the spiritual needs. Sixth, the controlling 
spirit of the school is love, which is the fountainhead of all 
right government, discipline, and instruction. 
After all these principles and conditions a true education 
seeks: The most recent improvements in methods of teaching 
emphasize, for instance, individualistic training of the pupil, 
tutor teaching by the older pupils, social contact of the teacher 
with pupils outside the class period, the combination of physi-
cal and moral training with the intellectual training which once 
was exclusively the school program, and, last, understanding 
and co-operation in place of autocratic government. There is, 
of course, always a tendency to professionalism and technicality 
in educational circles, and against these the more humanizing 
principles have to fight. But we who hold as precious the 
principles of Christian education, ought to recognize that the 
best type of our church schools and academies and colleges 
which we can make, will be modeled in form and methoa, not 
after some immense institution, but after God's perfect example, 
the home. It would make some wonderful changes in our 
present plans and practices if we did that. 
But now in the home we have naturally these very favorable 
conditions for the making of the best school. It is the part of 
every one in the home to do all lie can to make this school suc-
cessful. The more any member of the home knows, and the 
more experience he has, the greater is his responsibility to 
make the home all it should be. Parents, of course, have the 
first and greatest responsibility, because they are the oldest, 
most experienced members, and it is they who began the home. 
But the children, too, have their responsibility. The baby, 
of course, can hardly be held under any great obligation, be-
cause he doesn't know anything to begin with; but somehow, 
nevertheless, the baby has a part to play in making home 
happy, and, by the grace that is given him in his chubby 
innocence, he plays the part well-nigh to perfection. Then the 
child, as he grows older, has an increasing responsibility to 
make home the best school in the world, by his own cheerf to-
nese, obedience, and happiness. 
Still more the youth, growing into young manhood and woman-
hood, but still beneath the parental roof, have a responsibility 
in making the perfect home, both for the sake of their parents 
and their younger brothers and sisters, and for the sake of the 
homes which in the near future, when they marry, they will 
establish for themselves. The home of every young man and 
young woman is for him and for her a place of practice for the 
perfecting of the art of home-making. So, all together, parents 
and children have a common cause and a great responsibility 
in making the present home what it is meant to he, the most 
perfect school of earth, " a little heaven here to go to heaven in." 
Another thing we will note: Every member of the home is 
4 �
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
both a learner and a teacher. Parents are, of course, the chief 
teachers, but as every one of experience knows, the teacher 
really is learning more than his pupils. The youth in the home 
have not only much to learn, but they have the blessed oppor-
tunity of teaching those younger than themselves. And let 
them remember that the great secret of successful teaching is 
unselfish love, out of which spring forbearance, patience, tact, 
cheerfulness, courage, and willing service. The very youngest 
child has something to teach; for even his parents, who teach 
him, also learn of him. Teaching is not mere telling; it is 
imparting life. We teach by what we say, but most Of all we 
teach by what we do. 
What is the home to teach? And what are all its members 
to Rani? — The lessons of reverence, prompt obedience, cour-
tesy, hard work and happy recreation, frugality and wise gener-
osity, habits of study and improvement for service, cheerfulness, 
courage, and self-control. The principles of Christian temper-
ance and right habits of living are to be learned and lived. The 
spirit of reverence and devotion is to be inculcated, with the 
family altar as the center of religious instruction. The Sabbath 
is to be made a day of profit and joy. Love abounding, never 
failing, ever manifest, is to fill all the home and overflow into 
the community, and therefore to all the world. So will be 
manifest in the home the religion of Jesus Christ, who "went 
about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the 
devil." 
It is the duty of parents and children to study to make the 
best kind of homes there can be. Children will learn by example, 
by *hat they get from the experience of their childhood. But 
beyond this,'parents and young people who are coming to, the 
age of marriage need to study definitely the science of home-
making and of child training. No school would think of employ- 
] ing a teacher who had had no training for his work. The 
home is the greatest school, and those who establish homes 
should be trained for their work. 
"Never will education accomplish all that it might and 
should accomplish until the importance of the parents' work 
is fully recognized, and they receive a training for its sacred 
responsibilities."—"Education," p. 276. 
16 is not merely to save our children that our homes have a 
responsibility; it is, further, that through those ransomed chil-
dren the work of God may, be forwarded and finished. Our 
children do not belong to the devil; they belong to God. And 
it is the privilege of parents, through the school of the home,. 
to devote them to God. Of the mother it is written: 
" She has not, like the artist, to pdint a form of beauty upon 
canvas, nor, like the sculptor, to chisel it from marble. She 
has not, like the author, to embody a noble thought in words 
of power, nor, like the musician, to express a beautiful senti-
ment in melody. It is hers, with the help of God, to develop 
in a.human soul the likeness of the divine."—" The Ministry of 
Healing," p. 878. 
It is true that the home is not the only influence bearing upon 
the life of the child. All around us are conditions and influ-
ences that tend to draw our children away from God. The 
times are evil: But it is the work of parents to counteract 
these evils. Let every agency of the church be used to save 
our children, but let it be remembered that the greatest agency 
of the church is the home. If we 'parents feel ourselves inca-
pable of meeting the crisis, we must seek God for help. And 
we ore to put ourselves to the stretch to study and prepare our-
selves to be better parents. Then God's promise to us is, 
will, contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will 
save thy children." Isa. 49: 25. 
Family Prayer 
1. WHAT is the first instance of family worship? 
Answer.— Genesis 8: 18-21. 
2. What influence did Abraham cast about his family in 
every new home? 
Ans.— Genesis 12: 6-8; 13: 18. 
3. How did Abraham order his house? 
Ans.— Genesis 1$:19. 
4. How may Christians of today profit by Abraham's example/ 
Ans." Like the patriarchs of old, those who profess to love 
God should erect an altar to the Lord wherever they pitch their 
tent. If ever there was a time when every house should be -a 
house of prayer, it is now. Fathers and mothers should often-
lift up their hearts to God in humble supplication for them-
selves and their children. Let the father, as priest of the 
household, lay upon the altar of God the morning and evening 
sacrifice, while the wife and the children unite in prayer and 
praise. In such a household, Jesus will love to tarry."—"Patri-
arohs and Prophets," p. 144. 
5. What is God's standard for our homes? 
Ans.—"From every Christian home a holy light should shine 
forth. Love should be revealed in action. It should flow out 
in all home intercourse, showing itself in thoughtful kindness, 
in gentle, unselfish courtesy. There are homes were this prin-
ciple is carried out,— homes where God is worshiped, and truest 
love reigns. From these homes, morning and evening prayer as-
cends to God as sweet incense, and His mercies and blessings 
descend upon the suppliants like the morning clew."— Ibid. 
6. What lesson of regularity in family worship do we have in 
the services of the earthly sanctuary? 
Ans.—" The hours appointed for the morning and the evening 
sacrifice were regarded as sacred, and they came to be observed 
as the set times for worship throughout the Jewish nation. And 
when in later times the Jews were scattered as captives in dis-
tant lands, they still at the appointed hour turned their faces 
toward Jerusalem, and offered up' their petitions to the God of. 
 
Israel. In this custom, Christians have an example for morning 
and evening prayer. While God condemns a mere round of 
ceremonies, without the spirit of worship, He looks with great 
pleasure upon those who love Him, bowing morning and evening 
to seek pardon for sins committed, and to present their requests 
for needed blessings."— Id., pp. 383, 854. 
7. What serious danger confronts families in this busy time? 
Ans.—"In too many households, prayer is neglected. Parents 
feel that they have no time for morning and evening, worship. 
They cannot spare a few moments to be spent in thanksgiving 
to God for His abundant mercies,— for the blessed sunshine 
and the showers of rain, which cause vegetation to flourish, 
and for the guardianship of holy angels. They have no time 
to offer prayer for divine help and guidance, and for the abid-
ing presence of Jesus in the household. They go forth to labor 
as the ox or the horse goes, without one thought of God or 
heaven. They have souls so precious that rather than permit 
them to be hopelessly lost, the Son of,God gave His life to ran-
som them; but they have little more appreciation of His great 
goodness than have the beasts that perish:'—Id., pp. 143, 144. 
8. How important is family warship? 
Ass.--" Fathers and mothers, however pressing your business, 
do not fail to gather your family around God's altar. Ask for 
the guardianship of holy angels in your home. Remember that 
your dear ones are exposed to temptations. Daily annoyances 
beset the path of young and old. Those who would live patient, 
loving, cheerful lives must pray. Only by receiving constant 
help from God can we gain the victory over self."—" The Min-
istry of Healing," p. 398. 
9. Upon whom rests responsibility for maintaining family 
prayers? 
AMS. —win a sense the father is the priest of the household, 
laying upon the family altar the morning and evening sacrifice. 
But the wife and children should unite in prayer, and join in 
the song of praise. In the morning before he leaves home for 
his daily labor, let the father gather his children about him, and, 
bowing before God, commit them to the care-of the Father in 
heaven. When the cares of the day are past, let the family unite 
in offering grateful prayer and raising the song of praise, in 
acknowledgment of divine care during the day."—Id., pp. 398, 
393. 
10. What blessed assurance is given of the results of follow-
ing God's counsel? 
Ans.—"Brought up under the wise and loving guidance of a 
true home, 'children will have no desire to wander away in search 
of pleasure and companionship. Evil will not attract them. 
The spirit that prevails in the home will mold their characters; 
they will form habits and principles that will be a strong de-
fense against temptation when they shall leave the home shelter ' 
and take their- place in the world."—Id., p. 394. 
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE �
5 
A Heap o' Livin' 
IT takes a heap o' livin' in a house, to make it home, 
A heap o' sun all' shadder; an' ye sometimes have ter roam 
Afore ye really 'predate the things ye let' behind, 
An' hunger fer 'em somehow, with 'em allus on yer mind. 
It don't make any difference how rich ye get to be, 
How much yer chairs an' tables cost, how great yer luxury: 
It ain't home to ye, though it be the palace of a king, 
Until somehow yer soul is aorta wrapped 'round everything. 
Home ain't a place that gold can buy, or get up in a minute. 
Afore it's home, there's got to be a heap o' livin' in it. 
Within the walls there's got to be some babies born, an' then 
Right there ye've got to bring 'em up, to women good, an' men; 
An' gradjerly, as time goes on, ye find ye wouldn' part 
With anything they ever used—they're grown into yer heart: 
The old high-chairs, the playthings too, the little shoes they wore, 
Ye hoard, an' if ye could ye'd keep the thumb marks on the door. 
Ye've got to weep t' make it home; ye've got to sit an' sigh, 
An' watch beside a loved one's bed, an' know that death is nigh, 
An' in the stillness o' the night, to see death's angel come, 
An' close the eyes o' her that smiled, and leave her sweet voice 
dumb. 
Fer these are scenes that grip yer heart, are when yer tears are 
dried, 
Ye find yer home is dearer than it was, an' sanctified; 
An' tuggin' at ye always are the pleasant memories 
0' her that was, an' is no more—ye can't escape from, these. 
Ye've got t' sing an' dance fer years, ye've got t' romp an' play, 
An' learn V love the things ye have, by rain' them each day. 
Even the roses 'round the porch must blossom year by year, 
Afore they 'come a part o' ye, suggestin' some one dear 
Who used t' love 'em long ago, an' trained 'em just t' run 
Th' way they do, so's they would get the early mornin' sun. 
Ye've got to love each brick an' stone, from cellar up to dome: 
It takes a heap o' livin' in a house, t' make it home. 
—Edgar A. Guest. 
Health Training in the Home 
WIIEN we see a inan or woman of middle age briiken in health, 
perhaps confuted to a cot or wheel chair, 'or bent and:pre-
maturely old, such as we frequently see at our sanitariums, it 
causes us to wonder just when and how the loss of health began. 
In many cases, no doubt, the seeds of ill health were sown back 
in childhood or Srnuth, the habit-forming period of life, when 
little or no attention was paid to health, and no instruction was 
given to show the necessity of forming right health habits. 
An example: Here is a beautiful, sunny-haired, blue-eyed 
little girl, na sweet and attractive that parents and friends in-
dulge her with cakes, candies, or money with which to satisfy 
the " sweet tooth;" and when, at the age of twenty-four, she 
is laid away in -death (diabetes, a disease of the kidneys, the 
cause), we exclaim," Oh, if only the mother had known and 
taught that the way to keep personal beauty, charm, and health 
is by forming right habits of eating! " This is an actual case, 
and not overdrawn. 
Parents, listen to. this: " The directions given concerning the 
Hebrew, children teach us that nothing which affects the child's 
physical well-being is to be neglected. Nothing is unimportant. 
Every influence that affects the health of the body has its bear-
ing upon, mind and character."—" The Ministry of Healing," 
page 5.80. 
"Parents should live more for their children and less for 
society. Study health subjects, and put your knowledge to a 
practical use. Teach, your children to reason from cause to 
effect. Teach them that if they desire health and happiness, 
they must obey the laws of nature. - . . 
"tToaeh your children from the cradle to practise self-denial 
and self-control. Teach them to enjoy the beauties of nature, 
and, in useful employments to exercise systematically all the 
powers of body and mind. Bring them up to have sound con-
stitutions and good morals, to have sunny dispositions and 
sweet tempers."— Id., p. 886. �
, 
And it is this call to the training of our children to consider 
their bodies as net belonging to themselves, but to God, as 
sacred temples for the indwelling of His Spirit, that makes it 
so necessary for parents, with a tree concept of their own 
" temples " and their care, to teach their children by example 
and precept in that which pertains to health and vigor of body. 
First, we have the avenue of appetite by which the tempter 
has sought from the day of our first parents even until now, 
and most successfully, to cause men and women, youth and 
little children, to undermine their health by putting harmful 
things into their bodies. Or, if he does not succeed in getting 
them to take that which harms, he tempts to the taking of 
proper food at a wrong time, or he entices to undereating or 
overeating, or too-hurried eating, which prevents proper mastica-
tion. Perhaps the ignorance of, or indifference to, this one 
essential to health carries with it a longer train of ills and 
serious diseases than any other. Surely in this matter of proper 
eating very young childhood is the time to teach right principles 
—not just habits; but principles that will be grasped and 
made so strong that the child can resist every temptation of 
appetite— he can even let alone the most alluring big red 
apple. " Children are to be taught to reason from cause to 
effect," so call their attention to their own or others' illnesses 
caused by wrong eating. 
Happy, indeed, may be that mother whose training has been 
so effectual that she can feel confident that John and Mary, as 
they leave her close supervision to take up school duties, will 
refuse the proffered titbit, in whatever form, because they do 
not "eat between meals." 
Again, we see injury to the health as the result of improper 
dressing. 
Children can be taught not to admire the custom that leaves 
bare a portion of the limb about the knee to get chilled, and 
thus pave the way for severe colds, if not more serious trouble, 
to say nothing of its effects upon the morals. 
It has been said that many children seem to have no temper-
ature sense, often wearing a weight of clothing inappropriate 
to the conditions of the weather. If this is the case, it simply 
calls for closer supervisitm and more instruction until their 
observation at last helps them, to decide upon the right clothing 
for the day. Upon these few suggestions regarding healthful 
dressing, let the parents enlarge. 
Then we have the matter of cleanliness, which lies so close 
to godliness. There are far more vital reasons for cleanliness 
than simply that the child looks more attractive when clean. 
Here, again, comes in a knowledge of physiology, and wise, in-
deed, is the parent who, seeks by graphic descriptions and pencil 
illustrations to show the .structure of the skin, and, just why we 
should, for health's sake, bathe frequently and keep the skin's 
pores unclogged- 
Exercise, too, comes in for a goodly share of attention when 
considering health training. Temperance in all things means 
that the inactive, studious child must be invited to perform 
pleasant, helpful tasks that send the flush to the cheek and the 
blood bounding through the blood vessels, carrying off wastes 
and suppling the muscles with new fuel. The overactive child 
must acquire the habit of absolute rest and relaxation, •if prac-
tised even for only a few minutes several times a day. 
And so our vision of what health training consists, broadens 
until it seems to have no limits, and the only way to do the 
task justice is for parents to prepare by careful study from a 
good physiology, from the Testimonies, "The Ministry of Heal-
ing," and the excellent health topics that come in each of the 
Parents' Lessons. Add to this a wealth of good sense and ex-
perience, subtract any wrong habits in living that you yourself 
may possess that critical eyes are sure to see, and your efforts 
will be blessed with abundant success, 
As earnestly as you have taught your children to observe God's 
holy law, just so earnestly teach them to obey His great laws 
of nature, and the reward is to both parent and child: " Then 
shall . . , thine health spring forth speedily." 
Mits. G. K. Ammerr, M. D. 
"Do something, do it soon, with all thy might; 
An angel's wing would droop if long at rest; 
And God Himself, inactive, were no longer blest." 
" THE best rosebush after all is not that which has the fewest 
thorns, but that which bears the finest roses." 
" SILENCE is a great peacemaker." 
?lams ria 
hialfENI IMPEDER 
MAIL BAG 
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
Courage and Action Win the Day 
" WHY sit we here until we diet" 2 Kings 7: 3. The Chris-
tian life is one great adventure. We have a very old proverb 
which says, "Nothing ventured, nothing won." This is equally 
applicable to the Christian life and to every field of holy en-
deavor. Some would defend the spirit of progress by giving 
us another proverb, "A rolling stone gathers no moss." There 
are only two things wrong with that: we are not stones, and 
the acquisition of moss is not the true aim of life. 
In Genesis we are told, " The days of Terah were two hundred 
and five years: and Terah died in Haran." Gen. 11: 32. How 
different from the words in the beginning of the twelfth chap-
ter, "Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy 
country, and from thy kindred." So Abram departed, as the 
Lord had spoken unto him. To die where we were born (in 
thd religious life) is a spiritual and moral tragedy. 
We are not only called out—we are led out. Possibly early 
in the year we made a new start. The Christian life has much 
for us that may be realized here and now; there is something 
better for us every day. The path of the just is as a shining 
light which shineth more and more unto the perfect day.—Bev. 
Lewis Feast, in Christian Herald, Sept. 4, 19:6. 
A Good Report 
ONE of the most difficult tasks secretaries have is to get re-
ports of work done. In some instances it is probably due to 
the absence of work done, in others to simply a neglect in 
reporting. Sometimes we are met with this statement, "I do 
not care to have my left hand know what my right hand does." 
This reminds me of the use made of the statement of Paul to 
Tiniothy to take a little wine for his stomach's sake. How many 
people are having stomacl} trouble and hiding behind this 
verse! Just so with Matthew 6: 3; it serves some people as a 
license for doing just what they want to do,—no report. 
In a few cases, however, this statement made by Christ is a 
conscientious reason why some do not report. To these I would 
say,that we must take into consideration the occasion and pur-
pose of the Saviour's remark. The Jewish leaders were making 
a great show and noise over their occasional, and some some-
times only apparent, acts of benevolence, simply to be seen and 
heard of men. They desired the praise of men more than the 
approbation of God. Jesus wished to turn the minds of His 
hearers from earthly to heavenly rewards. 
Christ surely did not mean that no report should be made 
of the progress of the gospel message in the world. He gives 
this as one of the signs of His second coming, the fulfilment 
of which we should take special notice of, watch for; and re-
joice in. 
We find Jesus Himself sending a report of His work to John 
the Baptist for his encouragement. Matt. 11: 2-6. The Acts 
of the Apostles is merely a missionary report, and how much 
we would have lost had not this report been given! 
Acts 15: 12 says that Barnabas and Paul rendered to the 
council at Jerusalem a report of work done. If you read this 
verse over, you will find it is not the work of Barnabas and 
Paul that is reported, but the "miracles and wonders God had 
wrought among the Gentiles by them." And so it is with us; 
when we report, it is not the report of our work, but the work 
prompted and accomplished by the Holy Spirit working in us. 
The motive that actuated the Jewish leaders to do the acts they 
did is far different from what actuates God's people to work 
for the salvation of mankind. So also is the purpose of re-
porting. 
An encouraging report from the foreign fields never fails to 
thrill and encourage and make us happy and jubilant. Just 
so, a full report of the work done in the homeland cheers the 
hearts of those across the waters. They feel that while they 
are giving their lives in service for others in far-off lands, the 
work in the homeland is not being neglected. 
Shall we not at this time resolve that we will be more faithful 
in reporting, so as to lighten the burden of the secretaries, save 
needless time and expense in getting reports, and make a fair 
showing of what is actually being accomplished by our united 
body'? "A good report maketh the bones fat." Pray. 15: 30. 
— TV. E. Bement, in Eastern Tidings, July. 15, 19:6. 
A Report of Good Experiences 
IN company with Brother H. W. Barto, I was privileged to 
spend the time from July 6.21 among several of the churches 
and isolated members in northeastern Tennessee and western 
North Carolina. We visited the church at Greeneville, Tenn., 
first, and found an enthusiastic group of home missionary 
workers there. Dr. L. E. Coolidge, who is the elder of the 
church, and also the one in charge of the sanitarium, ordered 
a large tract rack, and ten dollars' worth of literature for it. 
This will be placed in the sanitarium. Brother S. I. Lamons 
also purchased forty books, to be sold to his neighbors. Brother 
Lemons has sold many of our smaller books among his friends 
and neighbors, and is an earnest worker for the Lord. 
Near Greeneville we found one person who recently started to 
keep the Sabbath. This brother learned the truth through read-
ing some of Carlyle B, Haynes' books, which one of our good 
sisters sold ;n Johnson City. As a result of this home mission-
ary work, these people are now rejoicing in the truth. "Let us 
not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if 
we faint not." 
We found, here and there, several of our people that were 
sick. While it is sad to see so much sickness, it was our priv-
ilege to call their attention to the Great Physician, and to have 
Bible studies and prayer with them. 
There is a great work to be done for the sick and suffering 
of the Southland. It is a clarion call for nurses and medical 
evangelists, who will go out and use their medical knowledge as 
the right arm of the message. It is a call also to our lay mem-
bers to take a practical course in home nursing and dietetics, 
and use this knowledge among their neighbors. 
We found several of our isloated members who rarely see a 
conference worker. We found some who are faithfully carrying 
the message to their neighbors. We sold tracts and papers to 
them for use in their personal efforts. God has His faithful 
followers stationed here and there, who will be faithful until 
the last.—J. C. %lose, in, Field Tidings, Avg. 18, 19f6. 
Parents' Work and the Message 
WHILE living in a rural district we had some neighbors who 
were not very fond of Adventists. For this reason we were 
held at a distance. My calls were not returned, and nothing 
brought any response, until one day I was passing that way, and 
the husband asked me in. His wife wanted to talk about treat-
ments. 'Then the subject of their child's training came up. I 
told of some lectures which had been given at camp-meetings. 
This seemed to create quite an interest. I told of the Parents' 
Lessons which we publish, and promised to supply her with some. 
At a later date this woman came to me with tears in her 
eyes. Calling me by name, she said, "I want to know more 
about your religion, and I do want to bring my girl up right." 
Some Bible studies were arranged for, to which her husband, 
father, mother, and brother came. Enough neighbors came in 
to swell our attendance to twenty or thirty. This woman and her 
family are now contemplating baptism. There are surely great 
possibilities in those lessons. �
A MOTHER. 
"EVERY man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let 
him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a 
cheerful giver." 
"A czsmaia amount of opposition is a great help to a man; 
kites rise against, and not with, the wind." 
/rot* 
SABBAT 
TO 
SABBAT 
WITHOU 
HELP 
IT'S A 
LONG 
HARD 
STEP/ 
ISSIONARY 
MEETING 
STEP 
WILL HELP 
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE �
7 
N 
Missionary-Prayer Meeting Suggestions 
January 5 
Tomo: "A Living Sacrifice." 
TEXT: Romans 12:1. 
SEED THouGHTS: Much of the value of an exhortation like 
this is derived from the character of the man who utters it. 
Paul's life of service. The dedication of ourselves on the 
ground of God's mercies. Christ had all there was of Paul; He 
must have all there is of us for service. "The giving that 
counts is the giving of oneself." Money alone will not finish 
the work, it takes human instruments, "Only those who will 
become coworkers with Christ, only those who will say, Lord, 
all I have and all I am is Thine, will be acknowledged as sons 
and daughters of God."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 513'. 
January 12 
Tome: "By My Spirit." 
Tarr: Zechariah 4: 6. 
Sue Tnovearrs: The Christian life cannot be lived apart 
from Christ, neither can the life of service be successful apart 
from Him. John 15: 5. "Not by might" (" army," margin). 
God is not dependent on numbers. " Nor by power" (that is, 
our power). Christ said, "All power is given unto Me." Matt. 
28: 18. The only service successful is that which is backed up 
and followed up by the Spirit. No sinner is ever won to 
Christ without the Holy Spirit. "Learning, talent, eloquence, 
every natural or acquired endowment, may be possessed; but, 
without the presence of the Spirit of God, no heart will, be 
touched, no sinner won to Christ."—" Testimonies," Vol. VIII, 
pp. 11, 22. (See "The Acts of the Apostles," p. 22.) 
January 19 
TOPIC: " Reveal Light." 
TEED: John 1: 4, 6-9. 
SEED TliouGHTS: Christ is the true Light. John 1: 9. What 
makes light? Verse 4. Answer—" Life." There can be no 
light where there is no life. Before we live a new life for God, 
we must have a new life from God. John' received that life. 
Verse 6. "A man sent from God." He was not that Light, 
but bore witness of the Light. We are not the Light, but we 
bear witness of the life. Not a cold witness of His historical 
life, death, and resurrection, but we bear witness of the fact 
that a great Light has lighted our lives, and we " reveal " that 
Light. " The followers of Christ are to be the light of the 
world; but God does not bid them make an effort to shine.... 
He desires that their souls shall be imbued with the principles 
of heaven; then, as they come in contact with the world, they 
will reveal the light that is in them. Their steadfast fidelity 
in every act of life will be a means of illumination."—" The 
Ministry of Healing," p. 36. This experience is open to 'every 
soul. Verse 9. 
January 20 
TOPIC: "Called of God." 
TExT: Jonah 1: 1-3; 3: 1-10. 
SEED THOUGHTS: Jonah was called of God for a special work. 
Jonah's reaction to the call. He followed his own counsel. 
Results when we follow our own ways. Jonah's second call. 
How he related himself to this call: The result. Even as Jonah 
was called for a specific work in his day, every child of God 
is called to do a special work in•this day. John 17: 18; Mark 
13:34...(See "The Desire of Ages,'! p.',195.) "Every soul 
whom Christ has rescued is called to work in His nano fix the 
saving of the lost. This work had been neglected in Israel. 
Is it not neglected today by those who profess to be Christ's 
followers?"—"Chirist's Object Lessons," p. 191. 
The Power of Personal Testimony 
"I HAVE appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee 
a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast 
seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee." 
Acts 26: 16. Paul never tired of telling the story of his 'con-
version. He had to tell it to be obedient, but obedience was 
a rich joy. "Tell them how great things the Lord hath done 
for thee," was Christ's command to the restored Gadarene. 
Fishing for men meant personal witnessing. Converts told 
what Christ was to them, what He had done for them. 'This 
kind of evangelism always has had power. It is essential today. 
In a book, " The Christ of the India Road," the author says 
that early in his ministry he got the lesson that he was to be, 
not God's lawyer, but His witness. He illustrates the vital 
value of witnessing, by many a forcible story. In a conference 
of Hindu and Mohammedan students, one of them suddenly 
said, " Sir, would you mind telling us what has made your life 
what it is?" 
"It was so spontaneous and real," says' the writer, "that I 
could but stop and quietly and prayerfully tell them how Christ 
had taken an unworthy, broken life and had made it whole 
again, and had sent my happy soul singing on its way through 
twenty years." 
Christ appears to men today for the same reason He did to 
Paul. 'What would give more attractive life to our prayer meet-
ings, what would give more power to our faithful efforts to 
win others to our Saviour, than the story of what He has done 
for us? "Let the redeemed of the Lord say so! " The irre-
sistible evangelism is personal testimony, in the power of the 
Holy Spirit.— Rev. C. de W. Brower, in the Christian Herald. 
The Reading Course Study Corner 
Suggestions Pertaining to the Auxiliary Minis-
terial Reading Course Conducted by the 
Ministerial Association 
Fon two years the Ministerial Association of the General 
Conference of Seventh-day Adventists has made a selection of 
choice' books designed to render the same service to shwa 
elders and leaders that the regular Ministerial Reading Course 
(in operation for twelve years) affords ministers and confer-
ence workers. The results have been most gratifying, and we 
present this third annual selection on the basis of firm convic-
tion that the plan is a good one, and will result in spiritual 
strength and increased efficiency in the Lord's work. 
The books selected for 1927, and which should now be in 
every church library or private library of the church elder, 
are as follows: �
' 
" Deeper Experiences of Famous Christians," Lawson. 
"Thoughts From. the Mount of Blessing," Mrs. E. G. White. 
" Glories of the Cross," A. C. Dixon. 
"To the Work," D. L. Moody. 
The retail. price Of $4 has been out to provide for a special 
combination price of $2.15, postpaid, where "Mount of Bless-
ings" has already been secured, or $3 for the entire set. This 
small investment in "tools of the mind" will yield manifold 
results,— pleasure in study, inspiration in thought, power in 
Christian living, and resourcefulness in the leadership of Chris-
tian forces. 
Church elders have found it a good plan to take up a chapter-
by-chapter study of Reading Course, books in connection with 
the weekly prayer and missionary Tooling. Brief suggestions 
for weekly study will be presented through this space so kindly 
allotted by the Home Missionary Department of the General 
Conference. See the February issue for beginning the study 
plan. In the meantime, secure the books through your Book 
and Bible House, and send in your name to the Ministerial 
Association, General Conference, Takoma Park, D. C. 
8 �
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
*entor fliltotionarp Volunteer 
'Mingo 
Missionary Volunteers for 1927 
(For Week Ending January 1) 
Suggestive Program 
Opening Exercises: Songs, Scripture Reading (Joshua 1: 1-9), Prayer. 
" Otir Plans," by the Leader. 
Talk: " The Love of Christ Constraineth Us." 
Recitation: " Missionary Volunteers." (See p. IL) 
Memorizing and Signing the Missionary Volunteer Pledge. 
Organizing the Two Bands: "Plans for Our Band Work." 
Leader: How to Begin Today 
Leader, yours is the high privilege of helping the young 
' people of your church to become real Missionary Volunteers for 
Christ, leading them into service for Him and in winning other 
Missionary Volunteers to become His followers. Plan care-
fully and work prayerfully. Lay every plan ht the feet of 
Jess, to be carried out or given up, as He sees best. Work 
as if everything depended upon you, and pray as if everything 
depended upon God. 
The book, " Missionary Volunteers and Their Work," will be 
your handbook. Consult it often. Study now chapter 5, " How 
to Begin." Take your officers with you into chapter 7, " The 
Officers of the Society;" also chapter 6, "The Executive. Com-
mittee." Do not feel overwhelmed with all the things to be 
done. These will come in gradually from week to week. Then, 
of course, you will recognize that some things will have to be 
adjusted to your own society's needs and facilities. 
It is the plan this year to give half of the Missionary Vol- 
untder,hour to the general program, and the other half to the 
meeting of two bands which will be especially fostered this 
,eat?, the Standard of Attainment band and the Literature and 
Correspondence band, (See "-Plans for Our Band Work.") 
The executive committee 'should have leaders for the two bands 
in mind to recommend to the society. 
It is also the plan to have a missions committee, appointed 
each inonth, to report at the missions nesting, This committee 
will glean items of news from the Mission fields from the Review 
andi Herald and other denominational papers, and at times 
from the daily papers. Appoint your first committee now, -to 
'report two weeks from today. 
Do not be- Altai& to launch out,,and -keel) -up your:cderage if 
•everything does not seem to prosper from the start. Win new 
members,'" and " scethtem:16 work. :We 'Usually- get: out of a 
thing as inticli as We put in'td it. ": 
Our Plans, by the Leader 
• 
You will find help for your remarks in chapter 5 of "Mis-
sionary Volunteers and Their Work." Note especially the para-
graph, "Principles Not to Be Porgotten,"'p. 103. Dwell upon 
each, clause of the Pledge; unless you plan.to have, a-Separate 
talk. of it in connection:with the memorizing and signing. 
Giye your Missionary Volunteers just a glimpse of the good 
things to come. There will be progi.ams on nature, music, 
recreation, anrone on how to spend money wisely; there will 
be doctrinal subjects from-time to time, some of :which will be 
inspirational topics, and others will be on missions. There will 
be opportunity .for consecration services. Missions especially 
will be approached from a different angle this year. There will 
be' tine meeting each month, but not based on any special 
country. We shall consider how Missionary Volunteers can . 
help ,missions; what led others to become missionaries; reasons 
for preparing for mission, work; and so on. Usually, material 
for one talk will be furnished, and the missionary; news notes 
by the missions committee will be an :important feature of 
every missions program. 
It will be well to mention briefly the bands, giving enough 
of the plan so that Missionary Volunteers can bq deciding which 
to joiin;" but, of course, the actual organization will come later 
in the hour. 'Urge all to join one of the two bands; they Are a 
part-of the regular Missionary Volunteer hour. 
" The Love of Christ Constraineth Us " 
THE Love of Christ Constraineth Us." As I was thinking 
about, this, I said to myself, Christ was forced out of heaven. 
What was it that forced Min out? It was love. God is love. 
Christ and the Father are one, and love actually forced Christ 
out of heaven. None of us will ever comprehend such great 
love., But I have sometimes, thought that it was not a hard 
task after all for Christ to do that Work. Of course it was a 
sacrifice incomprehensible. He could have withdrawn His up-
holding power from this wicked world, and spoken a new world 
into existence. Yes, but there would not be love in that, and 
that is exactly what Satan was contending. Rebellion in heaven 
took place on the very question of Christ's love, and if Christ 
had adopted any other method than He did, Satan would have 
had his contention. Christ could not adopt any other method, 
because He so loved the world that He had to give Himself. 
The love of God, the Father, constrained Him, and He came 
to earth, and every Missionary Volunteer who fully accepts 
Christ is constrained by that same love, forced by that same 
love into His work. " The love of Christ Constraineth Us." 
A building was on fire in New York City. A woman rushed 
up and said, "My baby is in that house," and she started to 
go in. The fireman grabbed her and said, "You can't go in 
there." But she said, "My baby is in there," and she had 
strength to break his hold, and into the flames she rushed. She 
came out with the baby, and fell exhausted on the walk. It 
did not take any effort on the part of the mother to do that. It 
would' have taken effort to keep from doing it. Why couldn't 
the fireman stop her? The answer you know, she was con-
strained with mother love. 
That mother love is not confined alone to human beings, it 
is in animal life. The story is told that some years ago, after 
a prairie fire had swept the country, some Men went out on 
horseback to find those in need. They came to a farmhouse, a 
little sod hut. Everything had been burned around the place. 
One of the men, walking around, saw a hen sitting, evideMly 
burned to death, blackened. As he came along, he tipped her 
over with his oot, and out from under her ran three little 
chickens. The fire had' come, the mother love in that hen 
called those chickens to her and brooded them and saved their 
lives, while she lost (her own. What was the matter that the 
poor creature would do that thing? Oh, you know; it was the 
love which she had for her own. 
What poor illustrations I am bringing to you of this wonder. 
ful love of Christ. A mother going in for her very own, for 
one who loves her; the hen dying for her own, for her little 
chickens that, have always run to her at her warning call. I 
say those are poor illustrations of the love of Christ, True, 
Christ came to His own and He died for His own; but when 
lie came, to His own, His own received Him not, His own took 
Him and slew Him. We are inclined to think, that the rulers, 
or Jews, those who cried, "His blood be on us, and on our 
children," crucified Him; but the apostle says we ourselves 
crucified Him. And we crucify Rim afresh, we do it again 
and again by our selfish lives, by our 'wilful ways. Christ 
died for me. His heart broke for me. He did not die an 
ordinary death. The soldiers came, you know, to break His 
'hones, as was the custom, and found the Man dead. They 
found our blessed Lord had ceased to live. And you remember, 
as He hung there on the cross, He cried out in dying agony, 
"My God, My God, why bast Thou forsaken Mel" He died 
of a broken heart. That was the love of Christ that con-
strained Him.' - 
 
The apostle Paul was a great worker because he connected 
his work with his life. The love of Christ constrained him. A 
man never succeeds when his heart is not in his work. Do 
you think it was a hard thing for him to endure shipwreck a 
day and a night in the deep? Was it a hard thing for him to 
bear those terrible scourgings? The thing that held him steady 
to his work through those years was the very same thing that 
caused the Lord to do what He did. It was the spirit of the 
love of Christ constraining him. I long for that love to con-
strain me, The trouble with us is that we have not absolutely 
surrendered ourselves to God that His love can fully fill us. 
We hold to the world with one hand and to God with the other, 
but we cannot serve God and mammon. 
" The love of Christ constraineth us." That is the spirit 
which holds our missionaries in the field. �
well remember 
being in the home of one pf our missionaries in Hongkong, 
China. The wife had been sick for months. They came up 
to the Shanghai meeting, where it, was decided to send them 
home, but they said, " What can we do? how can we go?" 
They had so fallen in love with their work that it was no 
pleasure to return to the homeland. When the love of God 
gets hold of people like that, then the work of God is a delight. 
There ima joy, there is a peace, there is a satisfaction, that 
passes understanding, in the service of God when "the love of 
Christ eonstraineth us." �
FREDERIC"( GRIGGS. 
CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE �
9 
Memorizing and Signing the Missionary Volunteer 
Pledge 
En sure to have the Missionary Volunteer Alin, Motto, and 
Pledge occupy a conspicuous place. If possible, have them 
printed. in large letters on placards. If you cannot do this, 
place them before your Missionary Volunteers on the black-
board. Make the Aim, the Motto, and the Pledge the under-
current of all your society meetings and activities this year. 
Aek every one who wishes to join your Missionary Volunteer 
Society to sign the Membership Pledge. Spend a little time 
memorizing it and talking about it. If it has not been possible 
to obtain these pledges for this meeting, order at once, and 
give opportunity for signing at the next meeting. 
Plans for Our Band Work 
AT the recent General Conference session, the Missionary 
Volunteer leaders voted to strengthen the band work in all our 
societies, to make possible more definite soul-winning endeavor. 
It has always been the aim of the Missionary Volunteer De-
partment to have effective band work in every society, the 
smaller organizations operating as one band, and those with 
a larger membership organizing band units to carry on their 
definite work. The success of this plan has led to its adoption 
by an increasing number of societies, and We believe the time 
has come when all our Missionary Volunteers will welcome the 
general promotion of this band work as a part of the society 
meetings. 
The new plan provides for a meeting of the bands as a part 
of every society meeting. Our Missionary Volunteers are or-
ganized for study, prayer, and work. The call comes to the 
youth who love Jesus to band together for this definite purpose. 
We will promote especially two strong band organizations this 
year, the Standard of Attainment band and the Literature and 
Correspondence band. Helps for these will be given in the 
GAZETTE. Many societies, of course, should not confine their 
activities to these two bands, for which we are, supplying special 
helps. The leaders of other bands will find helps outlined in 
"Missionary Volunteers and Their Work," and occasionally in 
this paper. Smaller societies will accomplish their work through 
these two bands, any other special work being done by the 
society as a whole. Some smaller societies, may desire to 
operate as one band. In that ease they would choose one of 
the two suggested. It will be necessary to organize the bands 
at this meeting in order to carry out the program for next 
week. 
The method of conducting the band meetings must be deter- 
mined by the leader, to meet local conditions. It is desirable 
for them to co-operate very closely with the plans of your 
local conference. In the case of the Literature and Correspond-
' ence band, if your conference is promoting some other litera-
ture than that stressed in our outlines, you' can easily substi- 
tute. 
We shall supply points for band dismission from week to 
week. The leaders will use these or discuss the local problems 
of the band. We trust there will be an atmosphere of free 
diScussion at every band meeting. The year 1927 should be 
marked by the most definite soul-winning endeavor in the 
history of our Missionary Volunteer movement. Opening provi-
, denees in home and foreign fields challenge our Missionary 
Volunteers to give of their best to the Master.' Our Great 
Leader has sounded the call for advance all along the line. 
Let us move forward, and accomplish our task in the strength 
He has promised us. �
J. F. Satex. 
Notes for Standard of Attaimnent Banctimader 
The Standard of Attainment Band is organized for, 
1. Prayer in behalf of unsaved young people and others for 
whom band members are working. 
2.' Discussion, of Standard of Attaimnent lesson studied during 
the week. 
3. Study of methods of Soul-winning. 
4. Giving Bible readings and holding cottage meetings. 
We have chosen to emphasize the Standard of Attainment 
work this year because the study of the Bible and a knowledge 
of the history of the advent movement must be the basis of our 
soul-winning work. It is planned that this band will also 'do 
the work 'of a Bible Reading and Cottage Meeting band. Some 
Standard of Attainment classes are already giving Bible read-
ings, with the result that people are accepting the message, 
We are taking up denomination history first this year. 
Study question's for this phase of the Standard of Attainment 
are prepared in leaflet form, based on the book "Story of the 
Advent Message," by Matilda Erickson Andress. Since this was 
a 1926 Senior Reading Course book, doubtless you already have 
it. Order the study questions at once through your Bible House. , 
Notes for Literature and Correspondence Band Leader 
It is not our thought that the actual work of mailing litera-
ture and writing letters will be done in the band proper. This 
band meeting will be for the purpose of studying the papers 
which are to be mailed out, assigning individual work, and 
apportioning supplies. Then when the work has been done at 
home (or in ease you have an hour when you gather for work), 
the papers and letters should be brought to the band (all 
ready to mail), where special prayer will be had before send-
ing out these silent messengers. The early workers spent much 
time in prayer over the work of their hands, and we believe 
that more will he accomplished by this method. 
You do not have a paper for advance study this week, but the 
time will be fully occupied with general organization and out-
lining of policy. At first wo shall specialize in the paper 
Present Truth. From 1926 to 1928 a series of studies are 
being given through this paper, which, if followed systemat-
ically, would be equivalent to a minister's giving seventy-two 
lectures on the third angel's message. Do you not think this 
is a good paper to set before the public? 
Of course, it will be necessary to order your papers from your 
tract society in advance. Order now for the month of January, 
Present Truth, Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4. The prices run as follows: 
Single copy �
$ .02 
25 copies �
 .25 
50 copies �
 .45 
100 copies �
 -85 
Postage 24 cents extra per hundred to foreign countries; 12 
cents extra per 100 to Canada. 
In some societies, members of the band will be able to fur-
nish names for the mailing list. Other sources from which 
you can procure these names will be your' local conference Mis-
sionary Volunteer secretary, and colporteurs in your vicinity. 
Another source is the telephone directory. 
BIBLE YEAR ,AND MORNING WATCH 
Beginning on time means much in keeping up to 
date all year.. Have Morning Watch Calendars on, 
 
hand to give to those not yet supplied. 
LIT �
1111111i �
111 �
11111111 
Does It Pay to Serve God? 
(For Week Ending January 8) 
Suggestive Program, 
Opening Exercises: Songs. Reports, and Prayer. 
Bible Study: " What Shall It Profit?" 
Talk: " Does It Pay?" 
Dialogue: " The Righest Price.", 
Band Meetings. 
Note to the Leader 
The best is never too good in Christian service, but do not let 
perfection stand in the way of your doing things in the Mis-
sionary Volunteer Society. Best methods are important, but 
they do not count nearly so much as doing things. A publish-
ing firm asked a greater publishing firm how they arrived at the 
right principles of circulation getting. " The principles are 
easy," was the answer; "but it's another thing to get them 
done." Their success had been due to the fact that they had 
the get-the-thing-done habit. Some one has well said, "Many 
Christians would have surprisingly, new results in their prayer 
life if they stopped trying for a perfect prayer plan, and plung-
ing ahead with a blundering plan, prayed. The beat way to 
arrive at the best method for doing anything may be by actually 
getting it done by the poorer method -just at hand. If all 
your facilities are not at hand, go ahead, and do the best you 
can with what you have. 
And begin your Missionary Volunteers right, by getting them 
into the reporting habit. Sister White tells us that " a report 
is borne to heaven of every successful effort on our part to 
dispel the darkness and to spread abroad the knowledge of 
Christ. As the deed is recounted before the Father, joy thrills 
through all the heavenly host."----" The Acts of the Apostles," 
p, 154. Surely we cannot get too many " joy thrills " here on 
earth. Let every Missionary Volunteer report what God has 
helped him to do, for the encouragement of the rest in the 
society. �
( 
" What Shall It Profit? " 
1. WHAT question do the prosperous wicked often ask? Job 
21: 15. This is a question that often comes to our minds as 
we face the problems of life. The Bible, the records of human 
like, and individual experience unite in teaching us that it is 
'very profitable to serve God. 
10 �
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
2. What hasty conclusion did the psalmist reach in a time 
of discouragement? Ps. 73: 2, 3, 13. 
3. What knowledge led him to change his mind/ Ps. 73: 16-19. 
4. How did he get a proper conception of this question? 
Ps. 73: 17, When we go to the sanctuary, when we study the 
Word, we can see things in their proper proportions. We can 
view the things of time in the light of eternity. 
5. What is the most reasonable thing for us to do? 
Rom. 12: 1. 
6. What are the wages of sin? Rom. 6: 23. 
7. Is punishment in the future the only reward of a sinful 
life? Prov. 13: 15; Isa. 48: 22. 
It is a false vision -which Satan gives of happiness in sin. 
Sin is self-destructive. " We cannot escape the penalty of a 
Single low thought. Sinful thinking inevitably brings its bitter 
fruit. Every thought that has flashed across the horizon of the 
mind has left its imago. Nature works with absolute impartial-
ity. The hands of God always deal out perfect justice. As 
sure as there is ebb and flow of the tides, heat and cold, light 
and darkness, this certain is it that as man thinketh so shall he 
be. The man who thinks low, groveling thoughts will some day 
reap the bitter fruit of this low thinking. As the seed, so al-
ways is the harvest. Although he escapes the hands of the 
law, or hie friends never find him out, nevertheless the wages 
Of sin is death—death to all the higher and greater and nobler 
Purposes of life." 
8. What is the reward to those who accept Christ? John 3: 16. 
9. Is the reward for right-doing only in the world to come? 
Mark 10: 29, 30; Isa. 48: 18. 
It would pay to serve God if there were no promise of a 
life to come. "The finest form of adventure upon which any 
man or woman can enter is the quest for goodness and for God 
in the depths of his own soul �
 He made goodness natu- 
ral, spontaneous, and inevitable. He said, Make the heart 
right first, and then the conduct will be right." 
Read "Steps to Christ," page 21, paragraphs 3 and 4, pocket 
edition. 
�
�
M. E. KERN. 
Does It Pay? 
(Read "The Desire of Ages," pp, 518-523.) 
" THIS do," Jesus said to the lawyer who was asking how 
he could. inherit eternal life, " and thou shalt live." You may 
not get rich at it. You may not escape all trouble and unhappi-
ness, and have a merry time all the way through,— the chances 
are all the other way; but if you follow Him, you will live-
You will find your chief reward in an enlarged capacity for 
life, which is life indeed. . . . 
'In every great city there are young men and maidens living 
meagerly. They show the same disregard for the whole process 
of making money which the monks and nuns showed with their 
vows of poverty and celibacy. These young people are making 
their renunciation for the sake of music or painting, for the 
sake of literature or social service. And they have their reward, 
net in cash, but in an enlarged capacity to live and to produce 
that upon which their hearts are set. They are making them-
selves at home in a realm of values which the man of dollars 
knows not of. They would tell you that this sort of devotion 
to an ideal does pay tremendously. 
Now in that readiness to give up everything else for the sake 
of, doing the one thing which they count supreme, do we not 
come fairly close to the spirit of religion? Is not religion giv-
ing the best one has to the highest he sees? The fireman dashes 
into a burning building to save a woman or child regardless of 
his own safety! The policeman faces some ugly situation in 
the dark, and stands there to be shot at if need be, because it 
all comes in the day's work! The engineer goes to his death 
with one hand on the throttle and the other on the air brake, 
in ',one last brave attempt to save his train and his passengers! 
Th'e captain stands on the bridge, giving orders about getting 
people into the lifeboats, and then goes down with his ship I In 
every ease there is something central, vital, fundamental, in 
the mat's own soul which takes command and leads him to count 
fidelity to duty the highest thing on earth. Greater love hath 
no man than this, that a man lay down his life in the perform-
ance of his duty! And if you could ask any ono of those men in 
such an hour as to whether it was or was not worth while, he 
would say, "This is life, and nothing less than this can ever 
be." . . . 
The soul that would be true, true to itself, true to the best 
it sees in other souls and true to God, must stand ready to say 
at any moment, "Rich or poor, sick or well, successful or de-
feated, I will do what I believe to be the will of God, I will 
follow the gleam until I am privileged to walk in that light 
where there is no darkness at all."—Charles Reynolds Brown, 
In "What Is Yowr Name?" 
The Highest Price 
(Have a Senior take the part-of Life. A little girl stands 
beside him. Let other Seniors represent Pleasure, Fame, 
Wealth, and Toil. Three young girls, standing hand in hand, 
may recite in concert the part of Faith, Hope, and Love.) 
I AM LIFER 
Here stands a young, aspiring soul, 
Uncertain as to life's best goal, 
All eager to attain the best 
And truest gifts we here may know. 
Who offers now, with eager zest? 
She fain would choose and forward go. 
I AM PLEASURE: 
My paths are fair and strewn with flowers; 
Come spend with me the sunny hours. 
LIFE: This fair young soul thou cant not buy; 
The cruel thorns all thickly lie 
Beneath thy flowers, their poison hid, 
And all too low is this thy bid. 
I AM RUM 
I offer thee my laurel crown, 
If thou, 0 maid, wilt come with me. 
If thou my steps wilt follow on, 
Proud honors shall thy guerdon be. 
LIFE: 
Thou biddest high, 0 Fame, but know 
Thine earthborn honors pass away; 
Thy laurels soon will cease to glow, 
Their glory's only for a day. 
I AM WEALTH: 
I offer thee My bags of gold, 
And treasures great to have and hold. 
LIFE: 
Take back thy gold, too small thy price, 
This soul I will not sacrifice. 
Much gold alone will prove a snare, 
Destroy its owner unaware. 
I AM Tom: 
Per this pure soul my best I bid, 
The toil that helps the world along; 
That lifts it daily nearer God, 
And makes the heart grow brave and strong. 
WE ARE FAITH, HOPE, AND LOVE: 
And to the precious gifts so blest 
Of Toil we add our own, our best: 
The sure, sweet hope of heaven above; 
True faith in Christ's abiding love; 
A home of light and peace and joy 
That time can nevermore destroy; 
Yes, love and life eternal there, 
In heavenly, mansions bright and fair. 
LIFE: 
A wondrous price ye all have paid— 
The soul of this dear little maid 
Is worth it all, and blest is she 
If she will follow loyally 
The feet of Toil, Faith, Hope, and Love; 
She cannot miss the heaven above. 
--Ida L. Reed (Adapted). 
Standard of Attainment Band Helps 
1. A season of earliest prayer for unconverted, Text: 
1 John 5: 16. There can be no activity without life. There-
fore we should ask Gad, in harmony with this text, to impart 
life to those for whom we are praying. 
2. Discussion of plans for personal work. Make a list of 
young people who ought to be invited to attend the society 
meetings, and appoint members of the band to call on them. 
Make another list of those who ought to be invited to join this 
band. Increase your membership until every member of the 
society is a member of one of the bands. Agree on definite 
assignments of work for each member to do during the week. 
3. The study. The Standard of Attainment course of study 
is designed to make us efficient as soubwinners. Tt consists of 
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WE CANNOT SPELL 
SUCCESS 
WITHOUT 
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officesig 
ewe!' 
111 
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE �
11 
a course in Bible Doctrines and one in Denominational History. 
During the first five months of this year we shall study the 
Denominational History. Every member of the band ought to 
have a copy of " Story of the Advent Message," by. Matilda 
Erickson Andross, and one of the study leaflets, which you 
were to order last week. Members of the band should study 
the lessons outlined in this leaflet, at home during the week 
coming to the band for discussions and helpful interchange of 
thoughts. If you have not been able to study in advance for 
this week, spend the time on the first lesson, and then take 
a backward look at it next week. 
Literature and Correspondence Band Helps 
Last week you organized and ordered supplies. I hope every-
thing came in time, so that you are now ready for earnest study 
and definite work. Have you made up your mailing list? Or 
is each one keeping a personal list? Have you studied your 
immediate neighborhood, so that you know what can be done 
in distributing Present Truth from house to house? Assign 
territory to those who prefer to work in that way. 
Now, of course, no Missionary Volunteer wants to mail or 
hand out a paper with which he himself is not familiar. Spend 
the time today studying the contents of Present Truth, No. 1. 
Discuss the marvelous wonders of our day in contrast with those 
of one hundred years ago. What do these things mean to you? 
During the week, No. 1 will be given out in territory assigned, 
or wrapped and addressed for mailing. Have the papers brought 
to the band meeting, where special prayer is offered before they 
are sent on their mission of silent witnessing. Give out No. 2 
for home study. 
Attempt Great Things for God 
(For Week Ending January 15) 
Suggestive Program 
Songs of Courage and Action, and Prayer. 
Question: "Am I a Part of God's Plan?" 
Leader's Talk: "Attempt Great Things for God." (See the Junior pro-
gram on page 15, the two talks on " Why Goals? " and " Attempt 
Great Things for God." You should have also a letter from your 
conference Missionary Volunteer secretary to be read to the society, 
setting forth the goals which the conference recommends for your 
adoption.) 
Scripture Lesson: "Let Us Go Up at Once." (See Note,) 
Bands Meet. 
Question: Am I a Part of God's Plan? 
Ls all its members were just like me, 
What kind of society would our society be? 
Or, stated in other words, What does the Author of this mighty 
Young People's Missionary Volunteer Movement expect of me 
as an individual member, in this time of the finishing of our 
work? 
Does the question simply involve my attitude in attendance 
at services called by the one in charge, my willingness in a 
formal way to do work allotted to me by virtue of my member-
ship in the organization? I answer, " No, most decidedly not," 
and as proof I quote our Motto, " The Love of Christ Con-
straineth Us." The love of whom,— an earthly friend in whose 
eyes we are anxious to appear as active Christians? Indeed 
not; but the love of One who "died for all, that they which 
live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him 
which died for them, and rose again;" the love of One who 
giveth every good and perfect gift that mortals possess, the 
One who is willing to watch over and care for those gifts, and 
make them greater and greater as we use them in His service. 
He asks for a daily and hourly consecration of our time, our 
strength, our intellect, or our capacity for unselfish, loving 
service. Yes, He asks for us, all of us, just as we are, that 
He may use us as reflectors of His tender, pitying love toward 
a dying world. 
In this connection I recall a picture of my childhood and 
my devoted Christian mother at the twilight hour of a Friday 
in early winter. My older sisters had already gone to attend 
the vesper service at a near-by academy. Father had been 
away a number of weeks, and mother and I were alone. We 
had been singing together; and I was watching, with my childish 
eagerness, to discern the stars, as the deeper shadows overspread 
the sky, making them visible. Mother had often called them 
God's night lamps, and had taught me the location and names of 
different groups as they appeared. "But, mother," I ques-
tioned, "I should think God would make bigger lamps? When 
the moon shines, the stars can hardly be seen. If I were a 
little star, I'd shut my eyes and go to sleep when the old moon 
peeps out from behind the clouds." Mother only hugged` Me 
closer to her, and gently said, "You are very small yet, but 
you are mother's treasure," and then she taught me the old 
rhyme 
"`I cannot do much,' said the little star, to make this dark 
world bright, 
My silvery beams cannot pierce far into the gloom of night; 
But yet I'm a part of God's great plan, �
. 
So I'll do the very best that I can.'" 
And as childhood gave place to more mature years, I began 
to realize the value of those few lines in the scheme of the 
universe. Christ wants the best. Our talents may be very 
meager, nothing to compare with others in the society, and it 
may seem to us at times that we are rendering better service 
by letting some one of more brilliant intellect do the work. 
But as a plant kept in the dark becomes so delicate that it 
cannot live if exposed to either the sunshine or the tempest, 
so the plant which God has planted in earth's garden cannot 
endure the glory of the eternal world unless it has drunk deeply 
at the fountain of Divine Life. He does not ask without 
supplying the power. "All His biddings are enablings." 
We are told that many, win; would shudder to commit open 
sins, fail as signally by, a failure to do the small requirements 
of everyday service; the sin of omission is just as grave a 
failure as the sin of commission. My greater admiration is to 
the individual who may; fail in attempting to do, than to the 
one who is so fearful of failure that he signally fails because 
he fails to try. We need not despair because we cannot accom-
plish great things. It is, nedessary only to do our part. The 
humble but sincere prayer, the priceless yalue of a sunny smile, 
the pressure of a handclasp, the cup of cold water,—these are 
the greatest assets to a healthy, growing society.—.4 .convention 
paper, Oakland, Calif. 
Scripture Lesson: " Let Us Go Up at Once " 
Read Numbers 13: 17-30. Make use of these thoughts gleaned 
from " Bible Miniatures," by Amon R. Wells: Caleb was the 
man who said, " We elm." When he said, " We can," he was in 
a minority of two; but that made no difference. The tit thing 
that Caleb could was the conquest of Canaan. No, no! -not the 
first. He was forty years- old then Baek of that courageous 
minority report of the two spies must have been many, more 
minority reports full of courage. Such plants do not spring up 
overnight. Doubtless, when Moses proposed the exodus from 
Egypt, Caleb was one of the few that at once said, " We tan." 
And because he had attained the "We can" habit, he was 
able to say, " We can," at Kiidesh-barnea. 
Standard of Attainment Band Helps 
1. Report of work done as assigned last week.-, 
2. A season of prayer for the unsaved. " Ask, and it shall 
be given you." 
3. Discussion of methods and assignment of work to each 
member for the coming week. The method of seeking ,the lost, 
one by one, is God's method. The gospel does not gain its great-
est victories in wholesale conversions, Definite appointments 
should again be made. Tact must, of course, be exercised in 
approaching those who may seem to have no interest in religion. 
You may in nearly every ease assume that there is an earnest 
desire deep in the heart to do right. Most young people remain 
away from Christ and the church because no one seems to care 
for them. Our interest must be sincere. We show our sincerity 
when we follow up our interest carefully. 
4. The study for today is based on lesson 2 of your study out-
line. Lesson 3 is next week's assignment. 
Literature and Correspondence Band Helps 
You have your marching orders. Move straight ahead! Have 
you enlisted any new members in your band? Take your mail-
ng list, and the papers (No. 1), which are ready to be sent 
out, with you to the place of prayer. Proceed with your study 
f Present Truth, No. 2. Now distribute papers to each, accord 
ng to the amount of work they expect to do. Do all have th 
necessary equipment — papers, mailing list, assignment of terri 
ory if working from house to house, and wrappers/ 
Each band member will need a copy of Present Truth, No. 3, 
to study for next week's band meeting. 
Order Present Truth, Nos. 0, 7, 8, and 9, for 
use during February. 
1c2 �
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
Joy in Mission Service 
(For Week Ending January 22) 
Suggestive Program �
- 
Opening Exercises: Mission Songs, Scripture Reading, Sentence Prayers. 
A. Chalk Talk: "Missionary Bells." (See p. 16.) 
Reading: " Why I Became a Foreign Missionary." 
Reports of the Missions Committee. 
Appoint Missions Committee for Next Month. 
Poems: (See p. 18). 
The Bands Meet. 
Why I Became a Foreign Missionary 
ABOUT a year after opening the mission for the Chunchos in 
the Amazon region, an Indian came one night and asked me to 
go at once to his home, where his wife lay sick. I immediately 
dressed for the trip, took my medical case, and started out with 
My guide, who led the way rapidly through the forest. As we 
neared his hut, we could hear the woman groaning in her agony. 
'I soon saw that her case was grave. And she exclaimed again 
and again, "0 pastor, I do not want to diet Before I knew 
the Word of God, I did not care to live, but now I want to live." 
I am glad to say that God did restore her to health, and she is 
today'a faithful member of the Perene Mission church. 
As I think of thiS woman's desire 'to live, I recall how, when 
thih message got hold of me, life'took' on a new aspect. I began 
to' understand and appreciate fhb wonderful love and mercy of 
God 'inanifested to me through His Son, Jesus Christ. I took 
'aideep interest in others.' I felt that twanted to help them to 
know this' blessed message.' I did everything I knew to become 
'efficient in winning souls for-God; Through' reading the Review 
and Herald t learned the needs of the field. But it 'Was at a 
eamp-meeting that 'I received the inspiration to devote my life 
to foreign service. ' At that camp-meeting I inet'Brother and 
Sister H.' H. Votaw, who had been missionaries in India, and 
othea who had been out in the great needy fields; and as I 
listened to their stirring experiences' and earnest appeals, I 
felt antirresistible desire to haven pait in this mission work," 
' :From then on I prayed molt fervently that-God would accept 
.`trib 10' �
service.' New and strange trials 'began to arise to 
tliivart me; but I kept on prayirig that God would open the 
way. And the Lord did open the way in 'a most 'remarkable 
minuet:, This strengthened my faith greatly. And- now, after 
years of service, I can truthfully Sy that- I have never -regretted 
aYcheich.- As I look back to numbers of cases like the one 
Slatedut the beginning of this article, I do thank Gator the 
privilege a serVing.. My only deeire is' to go' on and on to the 
finishing of �
great work. -'I want to be still more thorough 
and faithful:" And I want to sar,, in closing, dear young people, 
that the' Lad _whit 'said, "Go," ;nave
; �
fall in His promise 
to;loe. with you. �
F., A.'ISrmas. 
'Standard of Attainment Band Bolos �
, 
1. Report of members. As each member reports personal 
effort in belitileof ether "young'poople, if may be well to make 
note of opportunities before the band. - We are to watch for 
Sails as those that must give an -account. Some members of 
the band may, have taken the course in Bible Doctrines. These 
will find open doors to give Bible readings. Do you know of any 
homes where you might create an interest?" Members of the 
Literature and Correspondence- band May be -able to give some 
information. Perhaps a friend you 'knot, might appreciate en 
inritation to your home. Your could turn the conversation to 
some point of 'truth, and lead to a little Bible study. In con-
nection with your reports you will find it interesting to din-
muis the Work the band ought to attempt to do. Take time to 
make definite assignments, enlistihg the co-operation of each 
band 'Member. 
2, A season of prayer. In offering prayer for some one we 
are burdened for, it is not always necessary to mention the 
name. Unless it is essential to inform the members of the 
hand, the name may well be left unmentioned. But let it be 
understood that prayer,, in order to be effective, should be 
definite. "Prayer and faith will do what no power on earth 
can accomplish.' —" The Ministry of Healing," p. 509. 
3, Your study for next week will be based on lesson 4, Urge 
OLEO do, thorough home work, as there is little time for actual 
study in the band proper. Only the high points may be dwelt 
upon there. 
Literature and Correspondence Band Helps 
As you mail out Present Truth, No. 2, today pray that it may 
be the means of persuading many to take the Bible as their 
,guide of life Be sure you yourself know your papers so you 
.will be able to answer questions that conic, in. 
Proceed with your study of-No. ,." Why is sin permitted? 
:is a question oft repeated. 
Now see that each band member has No. 4 to study before 
next week's meeting. This is a victorious number: God has a 
remedy for sin; we can find peace, and finally victory over sin. 
You have sent out two numbers of Present Truth. Do you 
not think it time to follow these with a personal letter to each 
person the paper was sent to! See that your workers are 
_supplied with writing material for letters to accompany No. 3 
as it goes out next week. There are a few rules which should 
invariably be observed in this letter writing: 
1. Use plain, neat stationery, and write with pen and ink. 
2, Make every letter attractive by neatness. 
3. Write in your most legible hand, or on the typewriter. 
4. Give each letter a personal touch by genuine interest and 
much prayer. 
It is preferable always to write individually, but here is a 
brief form if desired: 
Mu DEAR MR. ----. 
Because of my desire to pass on to others some Bible truths 
which greatly interest me, I have sent you copies of the little 
paper Present Truth. Would you like to receive more of these! 
If so, kindly reply on the inclosed card. 
Sincerely yours, 
He Lifted Me 
(For Week Ending January 29) 
Consecration Service Suggested 
SongraraoyfersConsecration, Scripture Reading (Ps. 90:1-8), Sentence 
Secretary's Report of the Work for the Month. 
Leader, for thoughts, read the chapter "Consecration " in "Steps to 
Christ." 
Ask one or mere Missidnary Volunteers to tell why they want to serve 
Jesus. Lead on to testimonies from 
During the meeting, sing the Oongs, " Ile Lifted Me," No. 94 .1n. " The 
Gospel in Song," and, "He Brought Me Out," No. 192 in "Christ 
in song.. 
Close by repeating the M. V. Pledge in unison. 
Band Meetings. 
Standard of Attainment Band Helps 
1. For meditation. " Those who desire to do a great, deal of 
good in our world must be -willing to do it in God's way, by 
doing little things. He who, wishes to reach the loftiest heights 
..of achievement by doing something great and wonderful, will 
'fail of doing anything." 
2. Report of members: Some' members may have very little 
to report. It takes many little streams to make a big river, 
If you have had opportunity to' speak a word of courage to 
some one, tell it. ft will cheer, others nn to follow your good 
example. Band members must' be very free in the discussion 
of their problems. We cannot always be only learners. God 
calls -upon the youth to put into practice the knowledge they 
have gained., While„weenjoy the blessings of the gospel; many 
around us are burdened with sin whose shackles are drawn 
tighter as the months go by, making it' less, easy for them to 
surrender their lives to Christ. "Now is the accepted time." 
Let us put forth earnest effort, and see what we can do to 
bring the joy and peace of the gospel to others, especially our 
youthful comrades. 
3. Special season of prayer. 
4, Discuss today lesson 4, and assign definite points in lesson 
5 for individuals to lead out on at the next band meeting. 
Literature and Correspondence Band Helps 
You have both papers (No. 3) and letters to wing with prayer 
today, How are your home-to-home workers succeeding! Ask 
some of the Standard of Attainment band members to connect 
with these, a's interests arise and opportunties offer for Bible 
studies. Do not fear to tell the people, about your papers. One 
of our colporteurs in Europe was succeeding in getting an 
order for six of our books from a Baptist minister. Just as 
the order was all ready to be signed, the minister asked, 
" What denomination publishes these books?" The colportein's 
heart sank; he thought if he told, he would lose the order. He 
did not answer. Again the question was repeated, but 'not 
until it' Came the third time, did he look up and honestly witness 
Sr the truth, "Well," said the minister, "I knew from the 
first 'they were Seventh-day Adventist books, and I want them, 
but if you had not told the truth I would not have taken them," 
It pays to be true witnesses. People do want this truth; let 
us give it to them! Ask those who have had good experiences, 
to relate them today. Get the habit of praising the Lord for 
little victories and blessings. 
You have had Present 'Truth, No. 4, all week, so you are 
acquainted with it. Review the most important points. Now 
pass out No. 5 for next, week's study. Ask individuals, to 
represent one or more of the countries given here, being able 
to state the prophecies and fulfilment at band meeting next 
week. 
Be sure to pass on to your society secretary a report of all 
work done by the band this month. State the number of mem-
bers who participated, so that your secretary will be able to 
report the number of reporting members in the society, 
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
Jlunior -fillilitionarp Volunteer 
atetino 
Our Junior Pledge 
(For Week Ending January 1) 
Suggestive Program 
Song Service. 
Repeat Pledge. 
Song (" Sunshine Songs," No. 51) and Prayer. 
Leader's Talk: " By the Grace of God." 
Recitation: "Missionary Volunteers." 
Talk: "I Will." 
Story: "A Boy Who Kept the Pledge." 
Superintendent's Talk: ' Keeping All of It." 
Roll Call: " Signing the Pledge." 
Close by repeating the Pledge. 
Note to Leaders 
This first program of the year does not have quite the signifi-
cance for school societies as for those in the churches where the 
membership is renewed at this time. And yet it is well to have 
a check-up on society ideals, as contained in the Pledge; and 
if the membership cards have not been signed by all at the 
beginning of the school year, give opportunity for doing so 
now. Have the Junior membership cards on hand. These can 
be obtained through your Book and Bible House. 
The signing, of the Pledge or Membership Card should be 
voluntary. Those who sign should have a clear understanding 
of what it Means, and should be willing "by the grace of 
God "'to keep it. In schools all are counted as members of the 
society whether or not they sign the Pledge. But' surely no 
Junior is ready to hold office who has not subscribed to the prim 
ciples of the pledge. 
The Pledge and Law should be printed in some conspicuous 
place. A large piece of smooth wrapping paper and a black 
crayon, with neat lettering, will meet the needs. Print the 
sentence, "A real Missionary Volunteer keeps the Pledge and 
Law." In advertising the meeting, have some Junior print the 
words, "A real Missionary Volunteer," then under the words 
put a big question mark which will be the most conspicuous 
thing on the poster. The words, " Come and see," and time of 
meeting should be at the bottom of the notice. 
In the song service, ask several Juniors to choose a song of 
purpose. This should be done before the song service begins. 
Ask each Junior who chooses a song to be ready to tell why he 
thinks his particular choice appropriate. 
Ask all to stand as they repeat the Pledge. Be sure that there 
is perfect order and reverence, The opening song is one which 
many 'boys and girls have already come to love. It is the 
Missionary Volunteer Rally song written by pne of our sec- 
retaries' 
 C. L. Bond, entitled, "Missionary Volunteers." If 
enough books are not available, write one stanza on the board, 
and sing it several times until all are familiar with it. 
Leader's Talk: "By the Grace of God "‘ 
Do we realize that when we say, "By the grace of God," we 
are depending upon the greatest power in the universe? If we 
gathered together all the money in the world and piled it high, 
it would not buy one chance to live up to our Pledge. But the 
grace of God gives each one power to do all that He expects of 
us, and it is given unstintingly. 
When we look up at the heavens, we can see about three 
thousand stars. When the telescopes are' turned onto the 
heavens, these stars multiply into many thousands. Some of 
these have been measured. Antares, for instance, is a star so 
big that our great earth could be lost inside of it. And yet 
that great star never swerves from its course; it isn't one 
minute late. God's great power holds it there just the same as 
thousands and thousands of other stars are held. And in all 
that great throng of suns and their worlds, this one small earth 
is the only one that turned away from God. He might have 
left us to our misery and fate alone, but God's love is so great 
that He wanted to win even this one small wayward world back 
to Himself. It is that grace that we are taking -hold of when 
we say, "By the grace of God (I will be pure and kind and 
true." We are not promising to do it in our own strength, but 
we are linking up with the greatest force ever known Tell of 
some great power plants you have seen, and show how that is 
just a tiny part of the power God gives us to help us to keep 
the Pledge. Close your talk by having read some of the prom- 
ises of grace: 1 Cor. 1: 4; Gal. 1:,3, 4; Eph. 1: 7. Show how 
Paul thought that this "grace of od
" �
was so important that 
he mentioned it in each of his letters. 
Recitation: Missionary Volunteers 
Wang You're far *era home and the dear home friends, 
On whatever errand the Master sends, 
And you-need a smile and a word of cheer, 
Look around for another Volunteer. 
You will find a friend with a ready hand 
And a heart that can somehow understand, 
And your heart will warm as you're understood 
In the joy of a common brotherhood. 
For there's something broader than miles or years 
In the comradeship of our Volunteers. 
We've the same great aims, and the same high goals, 
And the same strong passion for winning souls. 
So whatever way the path may lead, 
Every Volunteer is "a friend in need." 
He will seek you out when you go apart 
Because you are lonely and " out of heart." 
If your heart is aching because you know 
That friends are faithless,—or count you so; 
When you long for a constant human friend, 
'Tis a Volunteer that the Lord can send. 
If your load is heavy, he'll be right there, 
And his shoulder will half the burden bear; 
For he gives no thought to his earthly pay, 
But he looks for the duties along his way. 
His prayer will tenderly help you when 
You're all discouraged, to try again. 
And when you are tempted, 'twill make you strong 
To stand by conscience and shun the wrong. 
, 
For his feet are treading the narrow way, 
And ho has no heart for the world's display, , 
And he can point you to the things above, 
For God has his life and work and love. 
Now isn't the wonderful Porter Divine 
Most wisely guiding your path. and mine 
And planting friends for us here and there,
i 
-For our Volunteers are just everywhere? - 
In arctic blizzards and tropic heat 
Our Volunteers are allowed to meet. 
If over the whole wide world you go, 
You'll always find some one you love and know. 
GUSSIE FrntaGohntmar. 
Talk: "I Will" 
Tin: Power to will is one of the most sacred things aver 
given to men. God will not save any one against his' will. 
We must choose to give ourselves to Him, and we must also, 
choose to let Him form characters in us day by day that Will 
fit us for heaven. The most important part of our Pledge is, 
"By the grace of God, I will." That means that we chooge to , 
be pure and kind and true, to keep the Junior Law, arid be -a, 
servant of God and a friend to man; and that 'after we hive 
chosen, we must rely, on Jesus for strength to do it, 
- Our lives are made up of choices. In the morning, boys and, 
girls choose what they will play With. Tim picks out hist scooter, 
while Fred likes the coaster, and Bob would rather MUM his, 
towers and engines, from some mechanical toy. No matter 
where we are, we are-making those choices, and they in turn are' 
making our characters. The taking of the Pledge is -a deliber-
ate choice which in turn will help to make character. 
Ted was on his way back from school. It was a hot, sultrY, 
afternoon„and he and his friends loitered along the --way. 
"Let's go in swimming," said one. The suggestion was, a 
popular one, and all had agreed to go to the old swimming bold 
before going home,—that is, all except Ted. He had been 
rather still until one of the boys,spoke up, "You're coming too, 
aren't you, Ted?", "No," said Ted, "I promised mother -that 
I would come-straight home." " Aw, she won't care; she knoWs 
it's hot," said one. "Whew, you don't mean to say that you 
Would let that atop you/ " asked another. "Well, before Pdbe 
tied to a woman's apron strings like that!" remarked a third: 
And so it went, one right after another, until Ted felt that every 
single one of them was just making fun of him,. But Ted was 
no coward. He threw back his shoulders, and his only answer, 
to the taunts was, "I promised." That was not an easy thing 
to do, but if Ted only knew it he was not only being true to 
his mother, but he was putting into his life something strong 
and true, that would help him when he needed it. 
When we say, "I- will," in our Pledge, we are making 
promise too. It will put fiber and backbone into every Junior 
who by God's help will keep it. 
Story: A Boy Who Kept the Pledge 
"MULL," the boys called him instead of Melvin, and a general 
favorte he was; for his jolly freckled face and genial disposi-
tion made him a friend to every one. This particular after-
noon the Junior tent was like a hive of bees as the young folks 
14 �
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
swarmed in from all sides. Moll joined the crowd, and yet he 
didn't either, for once in that tent he could always be counted 
upon to come forward and take his place quietly and reverently. 
This was not always as easy as it seemed, for many there were 
\rho were ready to forget that the Junior tent was just as 
sacred as the church. Melvin, however, stood more than one 
test, for when his neighbor began to be restless or nudge him, 
Melvin kept on looking right straight ahead, and more than 
once I saw him turn his head away when some one tried to 
Whisper to him. 
But this particular afternoon it was something else that called 
ray attention to him. Of course, actions always tell the char-
actor, and so I already knew that he was keeping that part of 
the Junior Law which=says, "I will walk softly in the sanctu-
ary." It was only a little thing that told me the story. The 
Juniors had risen to sing, when along by the tent came a man 
whose walk was uncertain, and he carried a cane. It was plain 
to see that he was blind. At the sound of voices he hesitated. 
Perhaps fifty boys saw him just as soon as Melvin did, but he 
Was the only one to act, and he did it quickly. Going to the 
side of the blind man, he asked courteously where he wished 
to go. On learning, he guided hint to his destination, and 
then a very businesslike way he lifted his cap and returned 
to his place in the Junior tent. 
After that, it was natural to look to Melvin for anything 
that was needed. And he never failed in service just as he 
never failed in play. Melvin was just a foursquare, all-round 
Junior, but he carried his colors with him in the little things 
that he did, It was easy to see that he was keeping the Pledge, 
for Melvin was a regular Missionary Volunteer. 
HARRIET HOLT. 
Superintendent's Talk: Keeping All of It 
The suggestions so far have been for the first part of the 
Pledge. The purpose of your talk is to give a brief sketch of 
all of it, and to inspire with a desire to be 100-per-cent Juniors, 
—jto keep it all the way through. There is enough material for 
several lessons, but be brief. What does it mean to " be pure " ? 
Show how selfishness is really the root of impurity. Thinking 
too much of self and the desires Satan puts into the natural 
heart, leads to acts of impurity. A little study on 1 John 
2:16 and what it says on page 42 of the Junior Manual re-
garding the "level eye" may be the basis of such a talk. 
Being "kind and true" has unlimited possibilities for talks 
for Juniors. Such questions as, "Is a bully kind?" "Can 
any one be untrue and still never speak a lie?" may lead to 
earnest thought. Encourage discussion. Hold the ideals high. 
Of, course it would be impossible to deal adequately with the 
Junior Law in so short a talk, but all should repeat it thought-
fully. Do not omit showing that the real "Servant of God" 
is a "Friend to man." And then before you close your talk, 
bring out the thought that the real 'Junior Missionary Volunteer 
is faithful all the way through. He isn't satisfied with just 
part, but takes every opportunity to fulfil every part of his 
promise. And he keeps at it. "At it, all at it, and always 
at fit." There is no turning back, even if there should be a 
failure at times. 
The following little incident will illustrate the last point: 
When Henry Ward Beecher was a lad, he once undertook to 
swim across the Charles River. This was quite a feat, for the 
river was swift and wide. He got halfway, and then a sudden 
fear possessed him that he might cramp. He swam back, 
forgetting that it was just as far back as on over; and so he 
nev,er accomplished his dream of swimming all the way across. 
Some Juniors keep such high ideals as the Pledge only until 
a test comes; and then when things are hard, they give up. 
But' the Juniors who " go through" are those who will be ready 
for the hard tests of life. 
Roll Call: Signing the Pledge 
This is an opportunity to " sign up." Read the Pledge over 
carefully, so that each may know what he is signing. If 
the cards were signed at the opening of the school year, this 
roll call may become a simple exercise on the Pledge. At 
the beginning of the meeting ask each boy and girl to be 
ready to tell of some incident in which they saw the Pledge 
kept. It might be an incident on the playground, when some 
boy who thought lie was right in a game gave up his point to 
others to keep peace. I knew of a boy who while he was writ-
ing an examination happened to see the answer to a question 
that he was puzzled about, on the paper of the boy across the 
aisle. It had not been intentional, but this boy was so true 
that he would not use the information he had gotten in this way, 
and? left that question a blank rather than be untrue to him-
self, With these incidents in mind, the boys and girls can tell 
of Other examples of being pure and kind or true, or being a 
serVant of God and a friend to man. After this study of the 
Pledge it should have a new meaning. Repeat it reverently. 
Keep the Morning Watch 
(For Week Ending January 8) 
Suggestive Program 
Opening Exercises. 
Repeat Junior Pledge and Law. 
Leader's Talk: "A Word to God and a Word From God." 
Story: "The Boy Who Heard God's Word." (Ask one of the Juniors to 
tell the story of Samuel's call. Any boy or girl who is seeking the 
Lord each day and getting acquainted with Him, will hear His 
voice speaking to him lust as truly as did Samuel.) 
Bible Study. 
Song: "In the Garden" (" The Gospel in Song," No 15). 
Story: " Freshening the Mark." 
Poem: "The Morning Watch." 
Talk: "Finding Our Guide." 
Superintendent's Talk: "Keeping the Morning Watch.", (Let this be 
a personal testimony from you as to what a close personal connec- 
tion with the Saviour has meant to you. If the spirit of the meet- 
ing seems to indicate it, a consecration service would make the 
meeting bear fruit in the life as nothing else can.) 
Response. 
Close by repeating Psalms 19: 14. 
Note to Leaders 
The aim of this program is to show the real meaning of the 
first part of our Law, and to encourage our boys and girls to 
truly subscribe to it. 
Appropriate advertising: a picture of some one repairing a 
telephone line, and under it the words, " Are your connections 
all right? " Such a picture can often be found in some mag-
azine. 
Leader's Talk: " A Word to God and a Word From God " 
Without any announcement the leader should explain that 
what the society has just repeated are statements of the ideals 
of a real Junior Missionary Volunteer. Many boys and girls 
that "keep the Morning Watch" simply glance into the Bible 
and read a verse, or perhaps hear the verse read in family 
worship, or possibly they wait until they get to school and read 
the verse there when others are around and there is no chance for 
thinking quietly about it. Study this subject in the Junior 
Manual, page 40. Read it to the Juniors. When we come to 
God's Word with a prayer in our hearts and think about it, 
we can always find a message there that we need in our own 
lives. Somehow when God talks to our hearts that way we 
cannot help talking back to Him in real prayer. And that is 
what we are promising to do when we say that we will "keep; 
the Morning Watch." 
Bible Study 
GOD will be found by those who truly seek Him. Deut. 4: 29; 
1 Citron. 28: 9; Jer. 29: 13. 
Moses kept the 'Morning Watch (Ex. 34: 2, 3), and it guided 
him in leading it great people. 
David kept the Morning Watch (Ps. 5: 3), and it made him 
a man after God's own heart. 
Jesus kept it (Mark 1: 35); and if He needed to pray for 
strength from God day by day, surely we do. 
Story: Freshening the Mark 
A LITTLE Bengali girl twelve years old, who loved Jesus, was 
compelled to marry a man of fifty. 
After the wedding, morning by morning, he would take her 
to the Hindu temple, and have the red mark of the god painted 
afresh on her forehead. 
If it is necessary to have the red mark of a god freshened up 
every day, how much more necessary is it to freshen in our 
hearts our devotion to our Saviour! As the heathen worshiper 
seeks paint for the brow, let us seek the mark of God on the 
soul. It will show us the way; it will make us more loving 
and happy. It will make us better brothers and sisters and 
playmates. Everywhere around us we see selfishness and world-
liness. How much each boy and girl needs to see the mark of 
God each morning. 
The Morning Watch 
A SEASON of prayer when the day begins, 
To ask the Lord to forgive our sins, 
To ask Him to help us through the day 
To walk in the strait and narrow way. 
Unless we have help, of what worth are wet 
For Jesus said, "Ye can do naught without Me." 
And if we neglect this sacred hour, 
Our faith will be weak, and feeble our power. 
Let us keep a watch in the morning bright, 
And work for the Lord from dawn till night; 
And strive, so our lights will not grow dim, 
But draw our friends still closer to Him. 
ETIIEL WILLMORE. 
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
Talk: Finding Our Guide 
SATAN is doing all in his power to deceive the world. If 
possible, he would deceive even the very elect. Mark 13: 22. 
The terrible thing about deception is the fact that folks who are 
deceived Mak they are all right. It doesn't make you right 
to think that you are right; you must know God's way. Not a 
single one of us will be able to go through the confusing decep-
tions of the last days unless we are guided by God's Word. 
Illustrate the point with the following story: 
"The United States Navy has been testing a new method 
of piloting a vessel toward New York harbor in a fog. An 
electric cable was laid for more than twelve miles on the 
bottom of the sea. Around the cable was created an electro-
magnetic field into which the vessel sailed. The officer on duty 
was able, by means of special instruments, to 'listen in,' and 
steer the vessel according to the volume of sound from the 
cable. As be got away from the cable, the sound diminished, 
as he drew ne4 it, the sound increased. The experiMent is said 
to have been at sueeess, and indicates that it may be possible to 
bring boats into harbor in defiance of the greatest enemy of 
mariners, fog. 
When we 4e listening for God's voice as it comes to us 
through His Word, and when we are seeking Him each day 
in prayer, we become very sensitive to the influence of His 
Spirit. We, like the vessel, will go into the harbor in spite of 
all the fog that Satan can throw around our path. 
Attempt Great Things for God 
(For Week Ending January 15) 
Suggestive Program 
Opening Exercises. 
Leader's Talk: "The Missionary Volunteer Aim?' 
Song: "S-m-id-e " (d Sunshine Songs," No. 10). 
Talk: " Why Goals?" 
Talk: "Attempt Great Things for God." 
Reading; Letter from the Conference Missionary Volunteer Secretary. 
Superintendent's Talk: " What Thy Hands Find to Do?' 
Some Experiences. 
Talk: " Our Own Goals." (This talk should be given by the secretary 
of the society. Compare last year's goals with the goals given YOU 
for this year; tell some of the ways in which the goals were met 
the year before; and then encourage each member to adopt a goal 
for himself.) 
Response: "My Part." (Pass paper and pencil, asking each boy and 
girl to suggest some line of work which they can do the coming 
week and which will make a beginning on the goals. The super. 
intendent should read a few of the best.) 
Close with Prayer. 
Note to Leaders 
The purpose of this program is to see the task that is before 
us and to square our shoulders to the performing of it. 
For the poster, have some Junior draw a range of mountains 
with one great peak. Add the words, "Heights Ahead," along 
with the date and time of meeting. Even though the meeting 
is held in a school and advertising is not necessary, it is good 
practice to have posters made and to encourage the officers to 
think of original ways of attracting attention to what the 
society is doing. 
For the song service, choose songs of action, such as, " To 
the Work" and "Saved to Serve." 
Talk: The Missionary Volunteer Aim 
Tan greatest task ever given to man is before the young 
people of today. The gospel of the kingdom must be preached 
in all the world, "for a witness unto all nations." It will be 
done in this generation; for signs show clearly that the end is 
near. Some one is going to do it, and have the joy of service 
with its reward. Is that some one going to be you? 
But the task is great. For instance: in the Far East there 
are more than 300,000 people- for every worker. Just think of 
a city as large as Denver, Colo., for every worker. There are 
thousands of people right in your own home town who have 
never heard of the message for today, What if you were the 
only one who knew it and could tell it? What you would do 
then can well be guessed by what you are doing now. 
At the General Conference we listened to the calls for mis-
sionaries from all the dark lands of the world. Elder Stahl 
told of his trip among the savages on the Amazon River, and 
how earnestly they pleaded with him to come and teach them. 
One old chief said, "O give us a school and a mission like 
you have on the Perenel All my people must learn the Word 
of God, but it is too far to take our families of children and 
aged ones. 0, do not refuse usl " 
Such stories as these show us how desperate the need is. 
God expects every Junior to do his best in giving and praying 
and going. We join with the older young people in our Mis-
sionary Volunteer aim to give the message to all the world. 
Each must do his best, and that will make our society a true 
Missionary Volunteer Society. 
Talk: Why Goals? 
RAVE you ever climbed a high mountain, one that was hard to 
climb and one that tested your persistence/ A group were 
climbing such a peak and the way was hard. There was so 
much loose dirt and gravel above the timber line that some-
times it seemedcws if, each step won only a few inches. Up 
they would scramble, only to slip back. The sun beat down 
mercilessly, muscles aehed, and the top looked almost impossible. 
And then it was noticed that the trail crossed a cool white 
snow bank. "If I can only make that," thought one of the 
crowd. And so once more new energy seemed to come to the 
rescue, and the tired climber pressed on. At last the bank was 
reached, and it was not so much of a task to cross it, though 
the way was steep. On and on they went. Although it was 
hard, there was a goal just beyond. At last the "home Stretch " 
was reached, and it was the hardest of all. The way led straight 
up over a near-perpendicular snow bank. Slippery it was, and 
the climbers had to pull themselves up hand over hand with a 
rope for 1,500 feet. And then one member suggested the win-
ning plan. Tired as they were, they would not rest until they 
had gone twenty-five steps upward at a time. Just that little 
goal ahead, and the way did not seem half so hard. And 
when they reached the summit! 'What a thrill of victory it was, 
and how glad each was that he had stuck through. The summit 
was the goal of all their endeavors, but the little goals along the 
way were a wonderful help. 
Even Paul had a goal. He said, "I press toward the mark." 
Phil. 3: 14. Notice that he pressed toward the mark for the high 
calling of God. It was a big goal upon which Paul had fixed 
his eyes. He was determined to accomplish what God wanted 
him to. God has the same heights for each of us to climb. I 
like to think of our goals as being the waymarks along the 
path to the glorious summit when God's work will all be ac-
complished. Each year that we reach them we are just so much 
nearer home. 
Talk: Attempt Great Thirigs for God 
GOD expects us to attempt great things for Him. It is our 
place to undertake for God, and it is His place to accomplish 
through us. It is just a linking up with the Lord in His work. 
A family were moving, and so of course there were many 
heavy things to carry into the new home,—pieces of furniture, 
and carpets, and books; and Laddie Boy wanted to help. His 
wee hands could hardly grasp the big dictionary that he decided 
to carry in, but that did not discourage him. He tugged and 
pulled, and finally succeeded in getting it to the front door. 
Just then daddy came along, and with his big, strong arms he 
picked up dictionary, Laddie Boy, and all, and strode into the 
house. 
When the big book was in its place, Laddie Boy looked up 
with a sigh of satisfaction. He had tried the impossible, but 
had accomplished it. 
Do the goals for this new year look big, before you have 
started upon them? You just attempt, and let God do the 
rest. 
Superintendent's Talk: ,What Thy Hands rind to Do 
Tars should be a practical talk full of suggestions as to 
what can be done by the members of your society in their 
home communities. Study chapter 6 of the Junior Manual, and 
make out a list of the things that can be done in helping others 
in the community in which the society is located. Make out 
another list of the ways in which. money may be earned for 
missions. Give some study to your own locality before present. 
ing these plans. Emphasize the point that while God expects 
great things, He often gives us our training in the little oppor-
tunities that come to hand. 
Some Experiences 
THESE experiences may be read by two members; or different 
members might tell their own experiences in doing missionary 
work or raising money for missions: 
The Layton Junior Missionary Volunteer Society had not• 
Topics for February 
Senior 
Our Attitude Toward Sacred Things. 
What Do I Stand For? 
Missions; Doing Good With the Master. 
Material for Character Building (Reading). 
Junior 
Can You Answer These (Bible Doctrines)? 
Persons With Whom I Am Acquainted (Denom. History). 
Self-Denial. 
Good Reading for Juniors. 
An Ideal Missionary Volunteer 
1. LOVES the Lord. 
2. Has the habit of Bible study and prayer. 
3. Reads good books. 
4. M friendly to everybody. 
5. Is a willing helper in the society meetings. 
6. Has a prayer list. 
7. Does personal work for others. 
S. Takes an active part in organized missionary 
endeavor. 
9. Gives regularly to missions. 
10. Is reverent in the house of Gad. 
M. E. KERN. 
16 �
THE CHURCH OFFICERS' GAZETTE 
been doing much in the way of Christian help work. Oh, of 
course they rolled up a pretty good report with the work they 
did around home. But Miss Anderson knew that they were not 
'doing their best. Not that it wasn't right to wash the dishes 
for mother and carry in the wood, but she believed that every 
single one of them should do those things, and should be a real 
Christian helper to the neighbors besides. 
And there were the Baxter sisters who lived next door to 
the schoolhouse. They were maiden ladies, and some of the 
Juniors had even been so rude as to call them "old maids." 
More than that, they had actually annoyed them. Yes, some 
bf the Juniors had marked up the fence; they had teased the 
cat, and made themselves such nuisances that the old ladies 
actually dreaded to have school begin each year. 
But some way Miss Anderson just made you see things, and 
ft wasn't very long until the Juniors of the Layton Junior Mis-
d,ionary Volunteer Society began to feel that they wanted to 
lie real missionaries. 
" Can't we do something to make the Baxter ladies feel differ-
ently? " said one of the older boys one day. " Wait and watch 
your chance," advised Miss Anderson. 
The chance came almost before they expected it. Winter 
Was coming on, and the boys noticed that a great pile of cord- 
wood had been dumped in the back yard of the maiden ladies. 
Of course it must be cut into stove lengths, but try as they did, 
the Baxter ladies could get no 'one to do this work. And then 
the big idea came to some of the Junior boys of the Layton 
society. Miss Anderson had not even suggested it. 
One day Jim, the leader of the boys, came to her with the 
question, "Don't you suppose that we could out that wood, 
Miss Anderson?" The proud, happy look that she returned tc 
tllem as she said, "Of course, you can do it," paid them in 
advance. The boys wanted Miss Anderson to go and make 
arrangements, but she insisted that that business belonged to 
the boys; and, so with a few misgivings in their hearts, they 
called on their neighbors. It didn't take long, and the boys 
were back with smiles that would not rub off. "Why, they 
almost cried, they were so surprised and happy," explained one. 
But above all, they had learned that the spinsters they had an-
noyed so, had kind hearts. 
And the boys went to work with a will. Early and late they 
were on the job. The news spread throughout the neighbor-
hood, and most of the time they had an audience that encour-
aged them. "That's right, Frank," one would say; "you'll 
 
make it all right." And so it would go. That little piece of 
Christian help work became the talk of the neighborhood. And 
it made over the Layton society in their ideas of Christian help 
work. 
It was the same society that found a new Way of meeting the 
goal of " Soids Won to Christ." Of course they had been bring-
ing friends to Sabbath school, but they decided to get some one 
interested in this message who had never before heard Of it. 
This is the way they did it: Every week, on a certain afternoon 
after school, they would take Present Truth or Signs of the 
Times, and leave it with some certain family. 
It didn't take long until the boys and girls who were doing 
this kind of work were known and welcomed. Often two would 
go together, and then perhaps they would step inside and have 
a visit. Sometimes the questions would begin, and then they 
would do their best to answer. Sometimes they would repeat 
before the whole-society the conversation which took place at 
these visits. It truly was about the most enthusiastic society 
in the conference. And goals? They weren't hard to meet with 
such 'a corps of workers as that. Folks got so interested in 
what the Juniors were bringing and telling them that some 
regular Bible workers had to take up the work. 
Stories From the Mission Field 
(For Week Ending January 22) 
Suggestive Program 
Mission Songs and Sentence Prayers. 
Memorize the Gospel Commission: Matt. 28: 19, 20. 
Superintendent's Remarks on Mission Service. 
A Chalk Talk: "Missionary Bells." 
Stories From the Mission Field. (Assign four Juniors to look up one 
recent mission story each which they can tell today. See Re- 
view and Herald, Our Little Friend, and other denominational 
papers. Ask the Senior M. V. missions committee for ideas.) 
Recitation: "Holding the Ropes." 
Consecration and the Offering. 
Close by repeating in unison the Missionary Volunteer Aim. 
A Chalk Talk: Missionary Bells 
Ring an ordinary hand bell at the beginning of this talk. 
Ask Missionary Volunteers what bells are used. for. They will 
respond with school bells, dinner bells, rising bells, church bells, 
etc. Now tell them that your bell represents a missionary bell. 
God has put something in our hearts that responds to this bell; 
ask what it is. By questioning, you will get the answer that it 
is love, love to God and love to our fellow men. We must have 
this awakening in our hearts. Now sketch quickly on the black-
board a heart, and inside of it a bell. Inside of the bell write 
the word, "Love." Then lead up to the thought that if love 
rings in our own hearts, it will awaken other hearts. As a 
result of this love, there will be a missionary awakening in our 
church. Draw a church with a bell in the steeple. Write, " Sal-
vation to all," within this outline. Now draw a large circle, in-
' closing the heart and church. This represents the church every-
where in the world. Fill the circle, with bells. Lead to the 
idea that these represent the gospel message ringing out every-
where. Write in each bell the name of a country where the 
gospel should be taken, getting Missionary Volunteers to name 
the countries, of course. Let several choose which bell they 
would like to help ring. They can begin right now by giving 
service and money.— Adapted from "Chalk," by Ella N. Wood. 
(Sing the song, "The Grand Old Story of Salvation," No. 34 in 
" Christ in Song.") 
Holding the Ropes 
(Let four Juniors, holding tightly to a large rope with both 
hands' give these two stanzas. Two can repeat the first and the 
other two the second.) 
Though far from friends and kindred dear, 
We're holding the, ropes for you. 
The work ie God's. 'Cast all your care 
On Him who doth your burdens bear, 
Leave all to Him; do not despair, 
Walk in His way, thy Saviour fear; 
We're holding the ropes for you. 
Take courage, brother, fear thou not, 
We're holding the ropes at home; 
Though dark at times thy path appears; • 
Though freely' flows the fount of tears 
For darkened souls, thy Saviour hears; 
A rich reward will be thy lot; �• 
We're holding the ropes at home. 
—Selected, • 
Consecration Service 
(For Week Ending January 29) 
See Senior Program, p. 12