Vol. 40, No. 24 Sydney, Monday, June 15, 1936 Registered at the General Post Office, Sydney, for transmission by Post as a liewsPats. The Marriage Arrangements DURING the past year or two, there have come to us from different parte of the Australasian field earnest appeals from godly Adventists, asking that counsel be given to our young people which will be of a nature to help them in their plans and experiences leading up to, and in con nection with, their marriage festivities. When Jesus, the Son of God, came to the earth, He began His work as the Mes- siah at a marriage feast. Thus He sanc- tioned marriage as a divine institution. We do well, therefore, to study the rela- tionship of Jesus to marriage and. the mar- riage service. "Man was not made to dwell in solitude; he was to be a social being. Without com- panionship, the beautiful scenes and de- lightful employments of Eden would have failed to yield perfect happiness. Even communion with angels could not have satisfied his desire for sympathy and com- panionship. There was none of the same nature to love, and to be loved. God Him- self gave Adam a companion."—"Patri- archs and Prophets," p. 46. "God celebrated the first marriage. Thus the institution has for its originator the Creator of the universe."—Ibid. It is said of Jesus that He "reproved self-indulgence in all its forms. . . . Jesus honoured marriage as a divine institution." —"The Desire of Ages," pp. 150, 151. A careful reading of these statements will bring to the reader's mind certain facts that have a direct bearing upon mar- riage. These facts should be well pon- dered by our young people. As was Jesus in His social nature, so are His children. But in His social contacts He ever re- proved self-indulgence. Worldly levity had no place in His conduct when attending social functions, whether among the rich or the poor, the learned or the ignorant. His pleasure was always manifested in innocent happiness. � His nature led Him to ele- vate the spiritual and the eternal. A few considerations should always be kept in mind by those planning marriage. It is a divine institution, and hence "marriage is honourable." But to have honourable marriage, the processes that lead up to it should always be honourable. Let all be careful during this period. A question that often arises concerns the engagement ring. Should one be given to the intended wife and worn by her ? Some years ago one rarely saw engagement rings worn by our young women. Is not the wear- ing of such a ring a trend toward the practice of the world? Our young people should be bound to one another by a love that needs no outward symbol that they are eacn other's. The money sometimes thus spent could be invested to better ef- fect in some article that would be a help in the home-to-be. In instances we have known, an organ or a sewing machine was the engagement present, and what pleasure it gave the bride-to-be. One young Adventist sister whose lover wanted to purchase for her an engagement ring, begged of him to use the money in some other way, and on her suggestion, they mutually agreed to support a native teacher for one year in the mission field. What a noble thought was this on the part of this young woman! Nor do we relate this in- cident as an inducement to others to do likewise; not at all. But with the Weight of a message to warn the world of the soon coming of Jesus resting upon us, we cannot but admire her choice. We can fully appreciate the thought of a young man to give some tangible evidence of his love to the choice of his heart. Love loves to give; but let God guide in the way that love should give, and let there be mutual understanding in this matter. In preparing for the wedding day, care- ful thought needs to be given to every detail. � I am fully persuaded that our young people wish to honour God in all their arrangements. It is here, however, that some seem to fail. Simple dignity should characterise every feature. While the marriage service is a happy service, nevertheless it is a very solemn one. It is fraught with tremendous issue for weal or for woe to the contracting parties. We would say very kindly, but candidly to our young women, Let not your marriage day be a day for the display of dress simply, but rather a day on which you are ap- propriately dressed for the joyous solemni- ties of the occasion. It is here that every bride should ask herself the questions: What is my motive in planning my dress as I am doing? Will it honour God and glorify His name ? What will be the in- fluence of my apparel on others? Happy in- deed is the young woman who can rest in the full assurance that God's smile is upon her in her modest but appropriate bridal attire, Bridesmaids should be clad in apparel so made as to be of some use subsequent to the marriage service. Of late years some have overdressed, and thereby attention has been drawn to themselves rather than to the solemnities of the marriage service. Let the church decorations be simple and dignified. Flowers and greenery are more to be desired, if obtainable, than coloured paper for decorative purposes. If it is planned to have a wedding break- fast, still maintain simplicity. If it can be held in a private home, so much the better; but should the occasion call to- gether a party too large to be entertained in a home, then select a quiet hall, or a dignified refreshment room. In our capital cities some entertain their guests in our Sanitarium Cafe rooms. The food and drink placed upon the tables should be strictly in keeping with our denominational teaching on diet re- form. A choice vocal or instrumental item is always appropriate on such occasions. Do not follow the worldly practice of "drinking to the health" of the contract- ing parties. It is quite natural that a few kindly, sincere words be spoken by dif- ferent speakers. When the objective of such speeches is to give the guests the opportunity of uniting in showing their feelings toward the bride, bridegroom, or parents of the parties, the speech can most appropriately be concluded, and the feel- ings of the guests expressed by the speaker simply saying, "I know you will join me in these sentiments by a round of acclama- tion," and suiting action to his words, he and all the party join in the happy ex- pression of hand-clapping. "0 clap your hands" is Bible counsel, and it is much to be desired above clinking glaSses and sing- ing that common chorus, "For he's a jolly good fellow." Let our young people hold to the old-time simple ways that are so de- sirable, especially when we think of the days in which we live. At these gather- ings how much more appropriate it is to sing such songs as, "Blest be the tie that binds." Sometimes parents are not so wise as they might be in connection with the wed- ding service of their young people. We have met some who plan far more elabor- ately than is proper for Adventist folk. On the other hand, our young people do well to heed the counsel of parents when 2 � AUSTRALASIAN RECORD � 15/6/36 such are good, true, and sensible in their relationship to these matters. Keep down expense, young people. There is a better way for us to do than spend too heavily on our wedding service fes- tivities. We call to mind a young couple who spent seventy pounds in connection with marriage service, breakfast, and honey- moon, and two years later were in need of seventy shillings. When the festival is over, and the bridal party is about to leave the friends, just here let us all hold ourselves in restraint. Give them a happy send-off, but never, never descend to horse-play and the over- doing of confetti-throwing. We have seen tears shed on several occasions, and, what is perhaps worse, anger displayed, because of the extremes to which young people, and sometimes older people, have gone in con- fetti-throwing. No one objects to a few rose petals, if roses are in season, or even a substitute, but always let us act in mod- eration. Some other things, such as prac- tical joking, while so common in the world, should not be practised by Seventh-day Adventists. The planning for the home-to-be should be thought of before the wedding day. Happy indeed is that young couple who have saved up to buy the necessary fur- niture. The time payment system on which so many purchase furniture is not the best way to buy. Those who do, pay at least ten per cent more than those who pay cash. Then while the payments are in pro- gress, should any untoward condition de- velop and we be unable to meet our payments, we lose our furniture, our de- posit, and all we have paid in instalments. We never know what a day may bring forth. This time payment system is of re- cent years. Our parents got along without it, so can our young people today. Even if we cannot secure all we would like when setting up housekeeping, there is untold pleasure in planning and saving together and, when we have the money, buying, piece by piece, that which we still require. Our young women should not always ex- pect to begin their own home experience by having a house full of furniture like that of their parents' home, which, in all prob- ability, has taken years to accumulate. It is said of God's children, "Ye are the light of the world." Then we should let our "light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Young Seventh-day Adventist Christians have much light. They have a better way in all that has to do with marriage than has the world. But while we are not of the world, we are still in it, and we should not fail to recognise that we are all the special objects of Satan's inducements. This great enemy of right standards is doing every- thing in his power to turn us away from them, or to have us lower the standards and unite with the world, breathe its miasma, and thus fail of our great God- given privileges. Let us "elevate the spiritual and the eternal." "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but h•e that doeth the will of God abideth forever." A. H. PIPER. Glimpses of Mission Life on Malaita The following paragraphs are taken from letters written by Dr. Mills Parker from Malaita, Solomon Islands, to her parents in Wahroonga: "All the people about are coming to realise that the doctor is here, and every morning I have a line of sick people to attend. Most of the people have 'sore legs.' To them any sickness is sore leg. e(74 (a3g(V?)( aggE0)& Pray On (Written during the recent Week of Prayer and read in a meeting at its close to encourage perseverance on the part of those whose prayers had not been answered immediately.) Pray on, dear heart, though clouds maygather, And shadows wrap the dim and distant hills. Pray on; there is a God above who listens And moves the changing vision as He wills. Life's destinies are all too great, tap many, Too weighty for a hand so weak as thine. Pray on, and leave thy burden, with its great- ness, To rest upon the Hand that is divine. Pray on; The weakness that meets thy spirit Touches all things beneath the burning sun, Angelic hosts bear answers down from heaven, And noble victories may yet be won Pray on: Pray on, dear heart, in grief or gladness; For earth and heaven are joined by holy prayer. Distance is naught to Love that is eternal, And heaven still makes thy need its care. R. HARE. V3g- E5E5a?9E545ggg They say, 'Me catch 'em sore leg along head belong me,' when they mean they have a headache. Yesterday one came with a sore toe and said, 'Me catch 'em sore leg along finger along foot belong me.' "Out school here opened three weeks ago, and there are twelve boys at present, all fairly well advanced. "Returning from Kwilabisi, Arthur visited the big chief up in the mountains. This old chief claims to have killed 100 men, and he seems to boast about it. We were not able to leave a teacher with him at present. "Last Thursday Arthur made a trip in- land from Su'u, where a police boy has been calling for a mission for his village. They told him the track went along the river, so to prepare for the worst. He mended his strong bush shoes, and set forth. To make a long story short, they had to cross the river, waist-deep and running strongly, eighty-four times. The welts of the shoes were evidently perished, and the soles and the heels began to dis- integrate. One of the boys tore a strip off his calico and tied the uppers on to my husband's feet. It was a footsore, tired, sorry-looking sight that came home, calling for a hot bath. They reported the pros- pects of a good mission, and in a few weeks the teacher will be there. "We told you about the island where we were having strong opposition from a man who had all the authority, and wished to turn us off the island. We made it a matter of prayer. On each of our missions here the believers met together for prayer three times a day, and we wondered what the outcome would be. Well, the one who was opposing us has had to leave the dis- trict because of sickness. So the situa- tion is relieved at present, and we trust for good. "While I am writing, Arthur is talking to some boys from Small Malaita. One is a headman, and has decided for the Seventh-day Mission and wants all his people to follow, The work is opening up quickly down there, and we have not enough teachers to give them. It is all bubbling up like yeast in the bread, and all the devices of the adversary cannot keep it down. "This week we are off to the Marovo Lagoon again, to bring timber for the house. Our temporary house is right on the edge of the virgin jungle. It requires a long time to get it all cleared away when there is more important work to be done. Birds are whistling all day, and we have screeching cockatoos, hawks, eagles, horn- bills, and lots of pigeons. Recently the boys shot a large eagle, and next day three more came around calling for it. The following day a man from the bush saw a feather near our house, and asked who killed his eagle. He says that when his grandfather died, this eagle was hovering over the funeral procession, and the man's devil-devil (spirit) went into it ! The boys gave him an indefinite answer, so all was well. "Our work is much hindered by the lack of facilities, but still we are able to ac- complish much good, and I enjoy every moment of the time." Visit to Mussau, St. Matthias Group When Brother Gray returned to Bougain- ville from furlough, we were released to go to the Admiralty Group. One becomes attached to a field which one has pioneered and lived in for eleven years. Continuous mountaineering and "roughing" it in ma- larial places, however, tell on one's con- stitution. The work in Bougainville has been op- posed by another mission society, and every advance move has been strongly contested, Our little printing press which prints Sab- bath school lessons in three of the lan- guages, is unifying our work. The two organised churches of sixty-four members are shining lights in the darkness. As the British Solomon Island lads are being with- drawn from Bougainville, their places are being filled by local lads. We travelled on the "Malaita" to Rabaul, where Pastor and Mrs. Peacock met us, A few days later Brother Atkins arrived from Mussau in the "Mala-lagi" to take me to the Admiralty Islands to visit around that field, and also to look for a site to build a temporary leaf house. We were compelled to wait at Rabaul for calmer weather, as there were three 15/6/36 � AUSTRALASIAN RECORD � 3 stretches of open sea to travel, and each stretch was over 100 miles across. While in Rabaul we had the pleasure of meeting Brother and Sister Hiscox, who were on their way to the field we had just left, to take charge of the training school. When the weather calmed somewhat we sailed north in the "Mala-lagi," and Pas- tor Peacock and party sailed south-east in the "Veilo-mani" to Bougainville. Our journey took us to Mussau, where Brother Atkins is working. Three years ago I was stationed on Mussau for eight months, relieving Brother Atkins to en- able him to go on furlough. At that time the work on Mussau was only twelve months old, and before I arrived many were the queries in my mind as to the genuineness of the work. As I went around and organised the churches, I was amazed. Later an official visited the island and told all the natives to start chewing betel-nut again, and not one of the 1500 started. This test was quickly followed by another: a famine, caused by the caterpillars having eaten up their gardens, and the food that was left being devoured by wild pigs. The hungry natives killed the pigs, but never ate one. A year previous they would have made a feast of them. On returning to the field this time, it was encouraging to notice greater spiritual progress in the true Mussau way. Already more than twenty-five lads have gone out as missionaries. Truly a quick work. We stayed a few days to enable Brother Atkins to attend to his quarterly teachers' meetings. We were pleased to meet Pastor and Mrs. Steed, and Brethren Collet and Baines with their wives. Here was an Ad- ventist colony, all happy and contented, a real stronghold of Seventh-day Adventists out in the broad Pacific, 100 miles from the nearest port or island. After three weeks' sailing around the Admiralties, we returned to Mussau and spent the week-end, glad of the change from cramped boats. While Brother Atkins attended to mission matters at his home centre, I went across the hills behind Bo- lin to visit two of the largest mission sta- tions on the island, Talate and Tasitel. It was encouraging to see the villages so clean on this unexpected visit. Two flocks of goats were met. Years ago pigs were roaming the countryside and running through the villages. Many new groves of coconuts have been planted. These trees in the future will be a source of income for the natives, as well as a reserve food supply in case of another famine. I examined the Sabbath school roll books and cards at Talate. Last quarter there was a membership of 121, an average at- tendance of 116, and the daily study record was 103. Truly a good record. The church here has an enrolment of fifty baptised members, and ten others were awaiting baptism. As would be expected from such a live company, some have gone out as foreign missionaries to Central New Guinea and the Admiralty Islands. It was a great pleasure to meet old friends. The chief who had given con- siderable trouble in the early days, now sat in the front and reported missionary work done. An ex-police boy who was a notor- ious mischief-maker in the past, sat near him, now whole-hearted for the mission. Truly a living testimony to the power of God. Sabbath was spent at Tasitel. The na- tives were singing all day long. At every service three or four companies took turns to go to the front to sing. They appreci- ate the new hymn book in their own language. The Sabbath school was ably conducted by two girls as leaders, and there was no uncertainty about the mem- bers knowing their lessons. When a ques- tion was asked, the whole school would answer. One could not go to sleep if one wanted to. The cripples who cannot at- tend the services are visited by companies after the meetings, and a short service is held with them. � R. H. TUTTY. District Meetings on Choiseul, Solomon Islands The usual programme for district meet- ings is somewhat similar to that followed in our camp meetings in the homeland. The first service of each day is a prayer meeting for the teachers and chiefs, held at 5.30 a.m. At 6 a.m. worship is con- ducted. Another meeting follows shortly afterward. It was at this hour that Pastor Rangoso told of his experiences in Aus- tralia. At 10.30 a.m. a Bible study is given daily by one of the workers. At 2.30 p.m. another study is given, and at 6 p.m. yet another study for evening worship. At the close of the meetings in each place, a baptism is held, and occasion- ally a wedding. It was splendid to see the interest shown in the meetings. Many hours were spent each day listening to the speakers, yet the interest never seemed to wane. The first four days of meetings we spent at Vio, where the little church on the narrow promontory did its best to ac- commodate the audience. The people here have their representation of the "Harbour Bridge," so as to cross a narrow strip of sea which separates some of their houses from the church. On this occasion twelve persons were baptised. The next four days were spent at Ruru- vae. The people in this district turned out in force to receive the blessings that can be had only by assembling together with those of like faith to hear the preach- ing of the Word. In a little nook in the corner of the sea, ten persons were bap- tised. Katarasele was our next destination. Here, too, the people had gathered from far and near, bringing with them piles of food, so as not to deplete the supplies of the inhabitants of the village. A similar programme was followed at this place, and ten persons were baptised. It was an inspiration and a blessing to be able to render a little assistance in these meetings. May God bless these people and protect them till the coming of the Saviour. � A. W. MARTIN. "More than Pleased" I was more than pleased to hear of the decision that has been made to streng- then the work in Ramu. The Administrator of the Mandated Territory, during his re- cent trip into Central New Guinea, paid our mission a visit, inspecting our line of native teachers, their wives, and the boys. He seemed pleased with his visit here, and later the Assistant District Officer informed me that the Administrator was pleased with the mission work that is being carried on by the Adventists. We expect to open another station at Finintigu, about twenty miles west of here 'ery shortly, and at the latest we hope to have it ready by the time the new re- cruits arrive. It was at this place that a prospector was killed a little while ago. The Assistant District Officer suggested that we open work there, also in another area this side. I am glad to say that my family are now with me. They are feeling the cold a lit- tle, but it is just what they need, and their health has improved already. I flew from here to Wau via Salamaua on Thursday. I also visited the forty Ramu labourers whe were sent from here by 'plane to work on the gold field. Some of them recognised me, and they came run- ning to meet me with cries of "Papa, Papa." "A breath from Ramu," I sup- pose they thought. I was also able to visit Brother Trows- dale at his invitation, and spent a night with him at nearly 7,000 feet elevation with a log fire burning all night. I spent Sabbath at his camp, and then visited around the district on Sunday. While seated on the truck I was shown a place where another truck had toppled over the cliff and fallen hundreds of feet below, just two days before, when a native was killed. This was not reassuring at the beginning of the journey up, and I had never seen such a dangerous-looking road, though it is a remarkable piece of work. Brother Trowsdale's influence for the truth is good in this district. In closing I wish to say again that we rejoice to learn of the efforts being put forth to strengthen the work up here in Central New Guinea. A. J. CAMPBELL. The King's Most Urgent Message This report is being written in Lanchow, the headquarters of the North-West China Union Mission, right in the very heart of China, and about 2,000 miles from the coast. In the old days it would have taken weeks for a letter to reach Shanghai, but now it takes only two days. This message to you will make the first lap of its journey in an aeroplane. A few years ago it would have taken eighteen days to reach the headquarters of the Shensi Mission. Now we can make this journey, up hill and down dale, through rivers and across mountains—some of the latter more than 10,000 feet high—in not more than five days. On the morning of June 26, 1935, two missionary families left the compound here to work their way into the last unentered province of China. This province touches Russia on the north, Afghanistan on the west, and India on the south. It is the province of Sinkiang. These families did not leave in carts or on horseback, but in a modern Ford truck. It took them just a little over four days to reach their tem- porary headquarters, Suchow, whereas by the old means of travel eighteen days would have been required. But the speed with which the King's message is to be proclaimed does not de- pend entirely on fast means of travel. Men and means are also necessary. God has opened the field before us. He has given WS � A I) Al VOLINTEE 4 � AUSTRALASIAN RECORD � 15/6/36 us these rapid means of travel. He has placed before us the greatest opportunity of proclaiming His message that any gen- eration of men ever had. Are our sacri- fices and offerings keeping pace with the challenge and opportunities the great Leader is continually placing before us? This union mission is approximately 2,000 miles from east to west, and varies from 500 to about 1,000 miles from north to south. In, it live not only Chinese, but Mongolians, Tibetans, Mohammedans, and in the west a mixed population of Hindus, Turks, and other tribes. A few days ago a Turkish business man came to visit us. Before he came he had never seen a car, nor an aeroplane, nor a white woman. He was much interested in the X-ray we have here in the hospital. The third angel's message must go to all these peoples; but, oh, how much we need workers ! There are only a few, at scattered outposts, but they are doing their best. The nations of the world are pushing into these hinterlands of Asia, hoping to capture the world's last unentered mar- kets. We must also push in with the last message of mercy. Pray, dear friends, that the Lord of the harvest will send forth workers ir_13 His harvest. "Work, for the night is coming Under the sunset skies; While their bright tints are glowing, Work, for daylight flies. Work till the last beam fadeth, Fadeth to shine no more; Work while the night is dark'ning, When man's work is o'er." L. H. DAVIES, Sec.-Treas. N.W. China Union. THE BEST HEALTH JOURNAL IN AUSTRALIA "HEALTH" IMPROVED, ENLARGED SUC- CESSOR OF " LIFE AND HEALTH " A FULLY ILLUSTRATED 48-PAGE BI- MONTHLY WILL TAKE THE FIELD IN A WEEK OR TWO WITH THE JULY- AUGUST EDITION. With articles written for ycu by over a hundred of the best informed physicians, surgeons, dentists, nurses, and dietitians, it will keep you fully informed on all the latest findings of medical science regarding health principles. A SMALL YEARLY4INVESTMENT MAY KEEP ONE IN HEALTH, BUT A FORTUNE MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENT TO BUY IT BACK IF IT IS LOST. BEGIN, INVEST TODAY.I Price: Per year, 6/6, post paid. SPECIAL COMBINATION OFFER : Save sfs � "Signs of the Times "I One year "Health:" �J 8/6 Send your subscription in early through your Tract Society or Signs Publishing Co., Warburton, Vic. South New South Wales An M.V. convention! What does it mean to our Sydney young people nd leaders? Read on and see. It is the bright, crisp morning of May 3. The Union and local conference M. V. sec- retaries are hurrying to Pennant Hills. The convention begins there at 10 a.m., and those charts must be hung, and everything put in readiness. We glance over the assemblage and notice young people and parents from Ep- ping, Thornleigh, Kellyville, Hornsby, Ryde, Gladesville, and Arcadia churches. What expectant faces are before us! Surely they have come for a blessing. Pastor E. L. Minchin takes as his subject, "Our Time, Our Work, Our Youth," and pleads with all to realise that we are in the last time, and to work with all the zeal that such a time demands. "The Advent message to all the world in this generation" is certainly a God-given task and the aim of our youth. Pastor S. V. Stratford is talking and is pointing out very clearly that the "M.V. movement is a training ground" where the most humble and the most ambitious can link their talents together, and all become fit- ted for this grand work. Very appropriate is the martial music which is being rendered by the Hebron Orchestra, for we have heard the call to enlist in the world-wide Missionary Volun- teer army. And now comes another call for recruits. Master Comrades are needed, says Miss Phillips. The J.M.V's must have leaders. Big brothers and big sisters, parents, friends, how many will decide today to complete the requirements of the Master Comrade Course? It will mean study and time, but it will also mean the saving of many boys and girls. A young man is on his feet (for a discussion period follows these talks). He wants to know more about the course. A synopsis is passed to him and others. Yes, they will decide now, so they stand while their names are re- corded. We glance at our programme and read "M.V. Stewardship." We look up and Mrs. Tank is explaining that this steward- ship embraces faithfulness in tithing, in offerings, and in reporting. Questions come from the floor. We are all interested, and feel an urge within us to be more faith- ful in these important matters. "How readest thou?" This question comes from Mr. D. McPherson. How earn- estly he speaks on this subiect. As he sits down others rise to speak, for how im- portant it is that our youth be urged to read only the best. The Reading Course books are displayed, and orders taken. We are also invited to inspect a display of books arramgda in the front of the hall by our Tract Society secretary. Well, we have much to think about, and the time has now come for us to adjourn for lunch. A fortnight has slipped by, and you are now at the Ashfield convention, where folk from Stanmore, Drummoyne, Concord, and Lakemba are in attendance. The hour is 2.15 and our chairman, Pastor A. H. White, opens the afternoon session. A stirring appeal is made to our hearts as Mr. D. Wyborn speaks on the "No- bility of Service." As he cites examples of such service, we are inspired to give ourselves to the Master. Very impressively Mr. Riley brings be- fore us the fact that a crisis is coming, and the latter part of his talk is entitled "Our Attitude toward War." He reads the Union Conference policy on this subject. Young men are anxious to know more, and further information is given in answer to their questions. Strains of music are now wafted through the church as Miss D. Wedderspoon ren- ders a vocal solo. What is this Miss H. Dixon is saying? "Lifting the standard in the home, the church, and the world." Her counsel is in- deed practical, and causes us to determine to lend our strength to the raising of the standard, "Having a Good Time" is the next sub- ject for discussion, and surely Mr. W. Mor- ris looks as though he is having such a time as he contrasts the pleasures of the Christian with the entertainments of the world. Listen to his sound advice, catch his infectious spirit, and let your heart thrill with the joy and pride which belong to the child of God. The sun has almost disappeared, and the hush of twilight fills the church as we hear the voice of Pastor Minchin saying: "Choose ye this day." "In view of all you have heard, who will stand with me and say with Joshua, 'As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord'?" There can be but one response, and a very earn- est prayer is offered for strength and grace to be loyal and true. And so to those who were present, these M.V. conventions mean a better under- standing of life's problems, a new vision of the field of service, fresh courage and joy in the Lord, and an inspiration to go on to victory. DELPHIA P. PHILLIPS. Kellyville M.V.'s and Juniors Honour Mother on Her Day The 9th of May was of special interest to our M.V's and Juniors, for they had been preparing for that day when, above all others in the year, a little extra honour is given to mothers. The bright sunshine and gaily singing birds were in keeping with the festal day, Our little urban church was neatly decor- ated with palms, asparagus fern, and beautiful white flowers. The mottoes, "God Bless Our Mothers," and "Your Mother and Mine," also suitable pictures illustrat- ing mother-love had their part. In welcoming the mothers present, ref- erence was made to some dear mother- faces absent through circumstances or through changes that had taken place dur- ing the year, not forgetting many mothers who had fallen asleep, and some others who were far away. In honour of their memory, all stood silent a moment, and then invoked God's blessing upon the ser- vice. As a hymn of thanksgiving and 15/6/36 � AUSTRALASIAN RECORD prayer, all joined reverently in singing, "Thank God for Life." Our newly invested little "Friends" sang a special Mother's Day welcome song, "Blessings from Above." In a recitation, a member of the kindergarten class told us how she liked to be "in mum- mie's lap at night," Degrees are conferred on people in dif- ferent walks of life; so the M.V's took the opportunity of conferring motherhood degrees on the mothers. Brother George James conferred the degree of L.L.D.. "Life Lovingly Dedicated," and W. Cor- mack that of M.D., "Magnificent Deter- mination." � Another little kindergarten member in a poem, "Just Mother," told of how mother knew just what was wanted, from making a sore head well to being "just the very best friend." The D.D. degree was then conferred by Elsie Hamil- ton, "Doer of Deeds." Doreen James in a recitation, "Memory," stood by mem- ory's shrine viewing childhood scenes. This was followed by a song, "Dreaming of Home and Mother." The reading by Brother N. Schenck told of a happy home in which dwelt "Christ and love and mother;" and Brother Isaacs, in a cornet solo, sweetly played that dear old hymn after impressively reading the words, "I heard my name in mother's prayer." Our leader, Sister Brunner, was presented with a small case by Brother James, the elder, on hehaif of the M.V's and assistant leader. Among other items was an acrostic by the juniors, which spelt the word "Mother." A basket of bouquets with a card attached to each, bearing the "Miz- pah" text, was carried around to the mothers by little Valma James. The writer read a very encouraging message in "Mothers' Responsibilities," telling how in every great crisis God has sent a little child into the world, to be the one later to clear away the clouds. "When the enemy shall come like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him." "The atmosphere in which our chil- dren shall be nurtured needs to be the at- mosphere resultant from constant associa- tion with the Lord, from importunate prayer, and from the study of His Word." The singing of the beautiful hymn, "A Melody of Love," brought a happy service to a close, with God's benediction. May our mothers be blessed and be honoured every day. � FLORENCE CORMACK. Mother's Day at Warburton "Mother's Day! Why they all belong To the one who murmured our cradle song, To the one who rocked us upon her breast, Who gave us cheer and who brought us rest." The sun, which at Warburton is fitful in its appearances during the winter months, joined us in paying homage to our mothers by giving us a sunny afternoon on May 9. Miss Hay, formerly the M.V. Secretary of the North N.S.W. Conference, in her opening remarks recalled the faithfulness of the mothers of Israel in training their children for leadership in God's work. Readings and recitations followed which left eyes strangely dim at times, and musi- cal items added their tribute. As the message was given, many of the listeners quietly resolved to give more sympathy and help to the maker of the home, thus making every day Mother's Day. �BERYL B. JOHANSON. Science and Religion Recently in morning chapel service at the college, the students of Avondale were privileged to hear several inspiring and helpful addresses on the fascinating sub- ject, "Science and Religion." The topic was introduced by Brother R. B. Watts, the science teacher, who showed primarily how the book of nature and the Book of revelation bear the impress of the same Master mind. From consideration of the methodical and orderly arrangement evidenced in the natural world, we were led to perceive something more of the workings of our heavenly Father in the creation of our world and all the material it contains out of some ninety-two elements, all the sub- stances we know being either elements or compounds of two or more of these foun- dation substances. Continuing, Brother Watts led us to the contemplation of the size of the minute components of matter termed "molecules." We gained but a vague impression of how small these particles are when we learned that if a tumblerful of water were emptied into the sea, and, in process of time, were to become evenly disseminated throughout the waters of the earth, then each glass that we might fill would contain approx- imately one thousand molecules of the water in the original tumbler. Brother Watts concluded an educational and inspiring address with the statement of that outstanding scientist, Sir Isaac Newton, "I seem to myself to have been like a child on the seashore, finding shells while the great ocean of truth lay undis- covered before me." We were privileged to listen further to an address by Brother W. D. Leech, di- rector of the Australasian Food Research Laboratories, who showed how the prophecy of Daniel 12:4 has surely been fulfilled by a remarkable increase of knowledge in the scientific world in the last forty years. Brother Leech took as his starting point the statement made in 1893 by an eminent British scientist who, in addressing the Determine to have a part in the Annual Home Missions Effort with the "Interpreter," tracts, and "Signs.", The date is June 20. Obtain supplies immediately. "The seed will fructify if it is sown. It will but moulder if you hold it up." British Association for the Advancement of Science, said that he was glad that he had lived when he had lived, and had done his work when he had done it, for then every- thing worth doing in science had been finished. The period between this pathetic state- ment and the dawn of the twentieth cen- tury — a period notable for the discovery of radio-activity and X-Rays — was ee- scribed as the "prologue" to the remark- able drama of twentieth century progress in scientific knowledge that was destined to follow. In the three "acts" of the drama were described the outstanding advances made in recent years in physical chemistry, knowledge of the structure of the atom, and the relation between matter and energy. The effect of this increase of knowledge was illustrated by the lecturer in but one field of research,—that of nutrition. Refer- ence was made to such successful work as the isolation and synthesizing of vitamin B, by Dr. Paul Karrer at Zurich, Switzer- land, in 1935, and more recently still, in February of this year, the isolation at the University of California of vitamin E. In conclusion Brother Leech stressed the need of diligent, trained workers in the Health Food branch of the work of God, workers able to use this increase of knowl- edge, God-given at this time, to the glori- fication of His name, the uplift of human- ity, and the finishing of His work on the earth. � WILL. R. VEITCH. In Memoriam (Words and music composed by A. J. Dyason to the memory of Pastor J. Scott Stewart, and sung as a quartette at his memorial service.) Sleep on, beloved, and sweet be thy rest; Jesus hath called thee, He knoweth the best, Angels shall guard thee in thy narrow bed, Waiting for Jesus to waken His dead: Till then, beloved, good night ! Sleep on, beloved, and calm be thy sleep. Angels shall comfort the loved ones who weep; Still not as others their silent tears fall, Jesus has promised their loved one to call: Till then, beloved, good night ! Sleep on, loved soldier and comrade, sleep on, Thy warfare is ended, thy victory's won, In yonder fair kingdom, the land of the blest, Thou'lt stand in the ranks with the bravest and best: Till then, beloved, good night Sleep on, beloved; the night nears its end; Soon shall the Saviour in triumph descend, Soon shall His faithful arise from the dust, Soon with thy loved thou shalt dwell with the blest: Till then, beloved, good night! good night ! � A. J. DYASON. One of the workers in the General Con- ference office wrote from headquarters on April 26: "A number of delegates to the General Conference are drifting through the office almost every day. Today I had the pleasure of meeting some of the South American people. It is a great pleasure to meet those with whom we have corres- ponded, and of whom we have heard, and we enjoy it. I usually grab a Year Book and see who these people are officially at the first opportunity, so I won't make too big a blunder when I meet them person- ally." The time was when all the leaders in every land were known personally at headquarters, but with the far-reaching ramifications and marvellous extension of this movement, it is impossible even for those in leading positions at the General Conference to remember "Who's Who" without the Year Book! "God must guide in the little things, if He rules at all in the affairs of life." Report for Quarter Ended March 31, 1936 Sabbath Schools Member- ship Av'ge � Perfect Thirteenth Att'nd. � Record Sabb. Offg. Total � Weekly Offerings � Av'ge. Victoria 59 3026* 2572 717* £205 11 9* £1009 3 9* 9.65* South N. Z. 16 865 728 361* 128 19 11 364 16 0* 8.91* North N. Z. 53* 1951* 1673 642* 231 8 10 687 13 11* 7.51* North N.S.W. 51* 2351* 1940* 738* 237 13 10* 660 7 8* 7.18 N. Queensland 9 410* 327* 82* 24 16 11* 84 13 3 6.08 West Aust. 37* 1445* 1253 253 89 1 11* 372 11 0* 5.97* Tasmania 17 686 494* 189 47 16 7 173 2 3* 5,81* South N.S.W. 65* 3205 2682 1001* 226 13 7* 770 8 5* 5.61 Queensland 21* 1316 1101 396* 78 2 8 285 17 4 4.57 South Aust. 32 1129* 1046* 288 71 4 9* 237 16 2* 4.52* Missions 318* 11581 9829 2566 107 2 8 327 19 3 1.83 678* 27965* 23645 7233 £1448 13 5* £4975 9 0* 5.74f * Denotes an increase over the previous quarter. t The total average does not include the mission field. 6 � AUSTRALASIAN RECORD � 15/6/36 Saving Souls through the Colporteur Work After completing the business course at the A. M. College in 1933, I was appointed to the colporteur work. In a country town I met a lady who was keeping the Sabbath, but who knew nothing of Adventists. After reading some copies of the "Signs" and the "Marked Bible," she quickly identified herself with this people. I had occasion to visit a Sun- day school teacher for payments on her order for "The Desire of Ages," and after several studies she sent her own children along to our Sabbath school, and today is a staunch Adventist, teaching her four children the message, and striving to win her husband, who is very favourably im- pressed. Another mother with her five children faithfully attended the Sabbath school we organised, and today is firmly grounded in the truth. Nineteen miles out of the town another family, a mother with five children, first came in contact with the truth when a colporteur called, left some literature, and passed on. She studied the "Signs," wrote to the local conference office, and began studying the Sabbath school lesson daily with her children. I studied with her some "The greatest work that can be done in our world is to glorify God by living the character of Christ."—"Testimonies," Vol. 6, p. 439. We feel sure that as another quarter's study of the life of Christ is completed, it finds in hundreds of hearts a deeper desire than ever to live the character of Christ. The prayerful, daily study of God's Word is giving light and power. In North New South Wales 197, and in South New South Wales 194, more members studied the les- son daily last quarter, but three other con- ferences showed a serious decrease, thus affecting the total in that column. Only four conferences reported an in- creased average attendance. No doubt this was due to the holiday season which comes during the first quarter of the year. Com- pared with the first quarter of last year, the average weekly attendance is now higher by 1,363. Eight more Sabbath schools were organ- ised last quarter, and the membership now stands at 27,965,—just 35 less than 28,000. The total offerings were £361 higher than a year ago. The Thirteenth Sabbath offer- ings, which amounted to £1448 13s. 5d., will of the doctrines of our faith, for she knew little of our teachings. A little later the Church of England minister came to study with her and obtained a promise that she would not write to the Adventists while he was visiting her. Months passed, and there was no word from her. Recently she wrote an encouraging letter, telling of her struggle, and saying that she had come through victoriously, and was rejoicing in the third angel's message. While working on the lay-by plan in a suburb of Sydney, I called on a Sunday school teacher. As a result of these door- step conversations I was invited into the home to study with the family. As the prophecies were unfolded to them, they marvelled and began inviting their friends along. Studies were commenced in an- other home, and the numbers increased and a repetition of the studies was called for. One young Sunday school teacher, the daughter of the one I had met first, took her stand for the truth, and is now attend- ing one of our churches. When called away to connect with the staff of the Treasury Department of the Union Conference office, I was glad to see a fellow student, a Bible worker in the local conference, continue the cottage meetings. The number con- tinued to increase, and at the present time be used to support native workers in Sa- moa and Fiji. The amount raised by the Investment Plan was £331 5s 8c1. Many are the interesting stories which reach us, telling how God is working for those who are investing in "business for the Lord." Ninety-one Sabbath schools held teachers' meetings, and 233 teachers are taking the Training Course. If you cannot hold a teachers' meeting regularly, you can at least be so enthusiastic about the Train- ing Course that your teachers will want to study and improve. "If the Saviour—God's living Word— is the heart. of the Sabbath .school work, then these other:S's, Study alvation ervice ilver ouls shall be added unto us; for He says, "I, if I be lifted up, . . . will draw all men unto Me." John 12:32. Then let us give ourselves wholly to the work, and go for- ward in Almighty power. HELENA H, LEWIN. representatives of seven families attend the studies, which are now being conducted by Pastor Behrens. A number of them are Sunday school teachers and workers, and represent most of the congregation of their former church. One of the number is a Conservatorium singer and pianoforte teacher. �R. W. RICHARDSON. Light for a Dark Hour Mussolini has been reported as saying, "It is plain that the world's darkest hour is beginning. Twentieth-century people are destined to live in a gloomy period of this history—an age clouded by tragedy." Dr. Albert Schwitzer stated, "In the war religion lost its purity and lost its author- ity. It joined forces with the spirit of the world. One victim of defeat was re- ligion. We wander in darkness now." Guglielmo Ferrero, the great Italian his- torian, said, "All the lights from the sky have gone out; all the authorities are fal- len to earth." And the Bible says, "Behold, the darkness shall cover the earth and gross darkness the people." Isa. 60:2. But in the same breath it states, "Arise, shine, for thy light is come. The glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. . . The Lord shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the bright- ness of thy rising." In what better way can we let our light shine than by taking an active part in the coming Home Missions Effort with our lit- erature? Most of us find it just a bit difficult to turn the conversation to Biblical themes. But the "Interpreter" will open the way for us, and make it easy to let the light shine. A set of ten tracts pro- vided will assist in leading our readers along the way. If we carefully read the literature before handing it out, we shall be greatly blessed in conversing upon the subjects presented. So let all take part, and much joy and satisfaction will be ex- perienced. Let none think that they can- not do the work, for God will bless you as you go forth in faith. Ever remember that Jesus is your helper. "A fog horn may serve a good purpose. but it requires a life-saving crew to take the people from a foundered vessel." Let us sound the warning, but let us engage in "individual work for individuals." A. U. C. HOME MISSIONS DEPT. "Given to Hospitality" Abraham, while sitting in the door of his tent in the heat of the day, presum- ably resting himself, saw three travellers —strangers to him—approaching. As soon as he saw them he ran to meet and greet them. Courteously he bowed himself be- fore them, and besought them to receive the hospitality of his abode. They accepted his cordial invitation, turned aside from their journey, and partook of the food which he speedily prepared. After being refreshed they arose and went their way, and Abraham accompanied them for a dis- tance. For his generosity and kindness Abraham was well repaid. He was prom- ised a son—the gift his heart most desired. Abraham was a most generous soul, being "given to hospitality." He was "not for- getful to entertain strangers." He was 15/6/36 � AUSTRALASIAN RECORD � 7 truly courteous. He is an example, not only as a man of faith, but as a gentleman. His consideration for others sets a standard for every member of the church of the God of love. Some time ago a new believer in our message of the soon-coming Saviour had occasion to make an extensive trip. His love for his new-found hope was warm and glowing. He visited our churches as he journeyed in the interest of his business enterprise, which is a large one. He was not given hospitality. The treatment he received became a trial to him, and he sent word back to his home to remove his children from our school and put them in a school teaching an entirely different faith. His interest in present truth is very slight now. His big business is taking it. "Be not forgetful to entertain stran- gers," is a divine command, and here is another: "Do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." . . . The opportunity of showing hospitality may become so common that it ceases to concern every member as it ought. . . . The spirit of Abraham should be the atmosphere of all the homes of all our people. When we entertain those of our faith as well as strangers, we do en- tertain angels, for the angels of the faith- ful of God do accompany them. These words are inspired. Heb. 13:12. FREDERICK GRIGGS. Experiences on Board Ship Having just returned from a trip to my people in England, and having had some rather interesting experiences, I thought you might like to hear of them. It has always been my prayer that I should be led by the Spirit into contact with anyone looking for truth, and I feel that my prayers were answered in a re- markable manner, both going home and re- turning. I found several people going home to whom I had many long talks, among them being a major of the Salvation Army, and a defrocked clergyman. Both of them were much interested and read all the books and papers I had with me. Coming home, strangely enough, the same major was on the boat again, and we con- tinued our talks. She admitted that we were right, and said that when the time came for people to be tested on the Sab- bath question she would take her stand. I told her that now was the time to make her decision. I do really think she was convinced of the truth, and I would ask your prayers that the Holy Spirit will lead her to take her stand. After I had talked to several others among the passengers, they said that I ought to take a meeting one Sunday night and give the other people a chance of hear- ing some of our views. Without my doing anything in the matter, they arranged with the purser to grant me permission to give an address on Seventh-day Adventism. I regarded it as a great privilege to do so, and on Sunday night, just after leaving Fremantle, I took a meeting and for one and a quarter hours talked to a company of between twenty-five and thirty people on the truths of the Bible. It was a most interested audience. There was not one murmur of dissent at any time. During the week which followed, many of the hearers thanked me, and said they knew nothing about Seventh-day Adven- tism before. Quite a number of them asked me to lend them books which I had with me. I spoke of the Bible and prophecy, the second advent, the Sabbath, the state of the dead, the millennium, and the earth made new; so the talk was fairly com- prehensive. I cannot say how thankful I was for the opportunity of presenting so many truths to such an appreciative audience, and I do pray and ask your prayers, too, that the seed sown will bring forth fruit abundantly. I wonder if anyone has ever had the privilege of presenting our doctrines be- fore in this way. I should like to know. FLORENCE G. KNIGHT. (Here is an invitation to others to write, either for publication or to us that we may share the experiences with Sister Knight, who is a member of the Manly company. Sydney.—Ed.) Opportunity! Service! Results! Some bemoan their lack of opportunity and think they cannot do anything for Jesus. Others say, "My services are available; what can I do?" Still others make their own opportunities and press in for service as the Spirit of the Lord di- rects, anywhere and everywhere. They win souls because they are always ready to speak a word for the Master. A while ago a travelling salesman called at a home; quite an ordinary and usual circumstance; that class of man is around every day, and more often than not such a caller is regarded as a nuisance and a disturber of the even tenor of a house- holder's way because of the wish not to be interrupted. But in this instance the contact was vitally important, and was fraught with consequences both for time and for eternity. Who says that our brethren and our sisters cannot win souls without the direct aid of a minister or of a conference worker ? Who says that God will not use a consecrated pen, dipped in red-blooded love, and accompanied by the prayers of the sender as it speeds on its missionary journey? � The following speaks for itself, and shows opportunity, service, results. Are there not others who can do similar work when callers come around to the home? Sister W. Thompson of the Erina church, near Gosford, is the lay-worker who furnishes the following il- luminating report of her labours: "It arose through a conversation on present truth with a stranger who called at my home one afternoon. "After learning from this man that his mother (a nurse) lived in Woy Woy, I secured her address from him, and lost no time in writing her a missionary letter and posting a set of the "Inter- preter." A very favourable reply, followed by an invitation to call on her, was gladly responded to, and Bible studies were com- menced in her home. At that time Woy Woy was entirely without a representa- tive of the message. This good woman and her friend who attended the studies, both took their stand for the message and were baptised. "A small Sabbath school was organised in her home, and one day a brother from Empire Bay brought along to the school a Mr. Walter Adams, formerly of Norfolk Island. This man has been a regular at- tendant of the school ever since, and he has accepted the truth. Brother and Sister A. H. Ferris of Cooranbong knew this man on Norfolk before he went to the war in 1917, and when they learned that he was attending the Woy Woy Sabbath school they were very happy to come down and see him. "A short time ago I commenced studies in a home where three generations lived under one roof, a great-grandmother, eighty-two years of age, and her daughter and granddaughter. The great-grandmother had no interest whatever in religion previ- ous to this time, but she soon became in- terested and gave her heart to the Lord. She lived but a short time afterward. While she was on her deathbed, I paid her weekly visits, also wrote her letters of comfort, pointing her to the Saviour who loved her. Her nurses informed me of the great com- fort these letters were to her, and on the day she died she requested her nurse to read them over to her, and asked that these letters be preserved to be read to others after she was laid to rest. "Shortly after this dear soul died, the nurse at whose home I first commenced Bible studies in Woy Woy was likewise laid to rest, and I feel confident that they will both come forth on the morning of the first resurrection at the call of the Life-giver. "After the death of the great-grand- mother I continued studies in the home, with the result that the daughter, a son and his wife, the granddaughter, and a neighbour accepted the truth. Two of this number have since removed their home to the South N.S.W. Conference. "Had I not embraced the opportunity of talking present truth with a stranger who called one day, Woy Woy might yet be with- out any representative of the message. At the present time, besides carrying church offices at Erina and doing my share of home duties, I travel 522 miles, all told, to do missionary work every week. I am happy in my work, and do not intend to become familiar with the signal to retreat." J. L. SMITH. WEDDING BELLS WILLIAMS-WRIGHT.—A very quiet wedding was celebrated at the home of Brother John Keith, Warburton, on the afternoon of May 3, there being only a few immediate relatives and friends of the bride present. The bridegroom, Mr. Arthur Williams, comes from Dunolly, Victoria, and has been in the truth for a number of years. The bride, Miss Alice Wright, has been employed by the denomination for a number of years, being for a time matron of the Hobart Cafe. We trust that their united lives will be a blessing in the com- munity in which they will make their home. J. J. POTTER. PHARMACEUTICAL CHEMIST.— Ap- plications for the position of pharma- ceutical chemist are invited. Full particu- lars to the Secretary, Sydney Sanitarium, Wahroonga, N.S.W. FOR, SALE.— Dairy farm, 375 acres; approx. 200 acres felled and grassed. Well- built bails, sheds, etc. Milking 35 cows. Cut price for quick sale. Special offer for cash. Must sell. For full particulars apply in first instance to "Dairy," c/o "Mizpah," Wahroonga, N.S.W. FOR SALE.— Estey organ, 11 stops, beautiful tone, in excellent order and con- dition. Stool included. £10 10s. cash. Ap- ply "Organ," Care Editor, "Mizpah," Wahroonga, N.S.W. 8 � AUSTRALASIAN RECORD � 15/6/36 gk.urtratasiatt � .ecurb THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE AUSTRALASIAN UNION CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS , � , Editor: Viola M. Rogers Single Subscription, per year, post paid . 5/. Order through your conference office, or send direct to the Avondale Press, Cooranbong, N.S.W. Advertising rate, 2s. 6d. per insertion All copy for the paper should be sent to Miss V. M. Rogers, "Mizpah," Wahroonga, N.S.W. Printed weekly for the Conference by the AVONDALE PRESS (A.C.A. LTD.). COORANBONG, N.S.W. At the last Union Conference Council, in response to a request from the field for counsel regarding denominational standards in connection with wedding ceremonies, the brethren voted to ask Pastor A. H. Piper to "prepare an article for the 'Record' on the subject of urging our young people to greater simplicity in the matter of wed- ding services." Owing to his heavy sec- retarial duties, including several months' absence from headquarters attending camp meetings, Pastor Piper was delayed in writing this article, but it was completed on his way to the General Conference and posted to us from New Zealand. It is given in this issue of the "Record." Miss H. K. Lewin returned to Wahroonga from Western Australia the day before the Week of Prayer. On June 4 Sister Lewin left for Queensland, for several weeks' itinerary in the interests of Sabbath school and young people's work. The journey to Brisbane was broken at Lismore, Northern N.S.W., for an M.V. convention. From the Society Islands Pastor G. L. Sterling wrote on May 5 regarding Pastor A. H. Piper's brief call at Tahiti on his way to the General Conference: "We very much enjoyed Pastor Piper's visit. His steamer was delayed by bad weather, and instead of arriving on Monday, it came on Thursday morning. We had Brother Piper with us from early morning until the second whistle blew just before 5 p.m. A meeting was held in the church at 12.30, when Pastor Piper spoke through an in- terpreter. The meeting was well attended, many who work in the town being present, and all enjoyed the service." Cabled News from the General Conference A few days after the opening of the General Conference, a cablegram was sent to us by our delegates, giving the first instalment of news regarding appointments made at that meeting. This gives the names of newly elected officers of the General Conference, the president, general vice- presidents, secretaries, treasurers, field sec- retaries, and auditor. 3. L. McElhany, formerly a General Vice- President for the world field, has been elected President of the General Confer- ence, We recall that Pastor McElhany came to Australia in 1903 as a young man, and laboured for about two years in this field. To fill the positions of General Vice- Presidents, the following three have been called: W. H. Branson, formerly Vice- President for the North American Division; L. H. Christian, President of the Northern European Division; and W. G, Turner, President of the Australasian Division. E. D. Dick, Secretary of the Northern European Division, has been called to take up the work of General Conference Secre- tary. H. T. Elliott and A. W. Cormack continue as Associate Secretaries. The newly appointed Treasurer is A. E. Nelson, Treasurer of the Southern African Division. The other leaders in this De- partment remain the same, W. H. Williams, H. H. Cobban, and T. J. Ireland. As Pastor C. H. Watson was resigning from the office of president for health reas- ons, he has been appointed a General Field Secretary, as have also M. E. Kern (the former Secretary), J. L. Shaw (the former Treasurer), I. H. Evans (formerly a Gen- eral Vice-President), and Meade MacGuire (Associate Secretary of the Ministerial As- sociation); while the following continue without change as General Field Secre- taries: W. A. Spicer, F. C. Gilbert, G. W. Wells, and R. Ruhling. The General Conference Auditor is still Brother Claude Conard. From this cable it will be seen that Pastor W. G. Turner is being called from Australasia to carry wider responsibilities as one of the General Vice-Presidents for the world field. World Division presidents were nomin- ated as follows: North America, M. N. Campbell; Inter-America, G. A. Roberts; South America, N. P. Neilsen; Southern Africa, J. F. Wright; China, F. Griggs; India, N. C. Wilson; Northern European, W. E. Read; Central European, A. V. Ol- son; Southern European, G. W. Schubert; Australasia, Open. The following General Conference de- partmental leaders were appointed: Sabbath School Department: J. A. Stev- ens, S. A. Wellman, J. C. Thompson. Home Missions Department: E. F. Hack- man, S. Rasmussen, — Butler. Missionary Volunteer Department: A. W. Peterson, C. L. Bond, D. A. Ochs. Publishing Department: C. E. Weaks, J. J. Strahle, E. E. Franklyn. Pastor Turner's cablegram states, "WONDERFUL MEETINGS, INSPIRA- TIONAL, HARMONIOUS." In the Holy Land Seated in a room overlooking the city of Jerusalem, and not far from Mount Zion, I am taking part of this evening to write to you from the city through which our Master wended His way so often in the long ago. It is beautifully situated. From its mosques and minarets the land of Palestine can be scanned for many miles. This morning Brother Kent and I rose at 4.30, with the first rays of dawn, and at 4.45 we were on our way to the Mount of Ascension, the summit of Olivet, so that we could view the city at sunrise. 0 that I could paint the scene as we viewed it from the top of the minaret built on the place from which Jesus ascended to heaven. Below us lay the Garden of Gethsemane, where stand several olive trees, whose gnarled and twisted trunks have with- stood the storms of centuries, and still they shoot forth afresh to greet the spring of this marvellous land. A little lower down, the brook Kedron flows silently on. Above the valley on the opposite side are the city walls and the gate through which our Lord came on His way to Gethsemane. Above this again the Mosque of Omer, a magnificent structure, crowns the spot where the temple stood in the Saviour's day. To the east, far over the hills and valleys, lie the Dead Sea and the Jordan, while farther on, as far as the eye can reach, are the mountains of Moab, To the south-east, Bethany can be seen. Through the country like a ribbon runs the road to Jericho, the setting of the story of the Good Samaritan. When we descended from the Mount of Ascension, we went into the Garden of Gethsemane, and there we touched the very trees under which the disciples slept while Jesus prayed. To stand in such a place is to sense its sacredness. Through the garden and over the Kedron, up to Mount Zion we traced our steps, while memory presented the scenes enacted by priests, prophets, and kings on this beauti- ful mount. We felt the presence of those ancient men and women in their daily walk of life. Every place visited was like a page of the Bible opening before us. Twice Brother Kent and I visited Bethle- hem, and the Church of the Nativity which is said to mark the place where Mary brought forth her firstborn Son and wrap- ped Him in swaddling clothes. The tra- ditional spot is marked by a shining star set in a marble slab, surrounded by can- dles and protected from the elements by a magnificent temple. The manger is near by, within a few feet of the star. On our first visit many others were present, but the second time we were alone. In the stillness of night, surrounded by dark- ness broken only by the flickering candles we carried and the lights of the incense, we knelt and prayed, thanking God for His wonderful gift. We have traversed almost the whole of Palestine, and have gone into Syria and Egypt, and as I close this letter we are on the "Oronsay." The Jew and the Arab are causing much alarm, and there is rioting in many places. On arrival at Nazareth we were told that there was trouble on the roads and we probably could not get through to Jerusalem. We appealed to the office of the leading ad- viser, and were told we could proceed only at our own risk. We passed groups ready to attack, and at one place lads ran down the hillside with stones in hand to throw at us, but the driver stalled them off and we got through safely. We were the only English to get through in the 'buses that day. The next day the feelings were tense, and the following day also, but we carried out practically the whole of our programme. In Egypt we saw the pyramids, Sphinx, Tutankhamen's treasures, and sculpture work beyond description. The trip has been educational beyond all one could think of without experiencing it. J. D. ANDERSON.