rstrrIVTattabian Tibings " BEHOLD I BRING YOU GOOD TIDINGS" Vol. 5 � Calgary, Alberta, April 13, 1916. � No 8 BIENNIAL REPORT OF THE SASKATCHEWAN CONFERENCE It is a joy to present you with a brief report of the progress and prospect of the work of the Lord in Saskatchewan. The heart of the world is throbbing with grief today. Nations before us lie prostrate in mourning. Sorrow drapes a myriad homes, and • affliction palls the bereaved. War's malediction is read by every eye, while Love inscribes a sad memoriam of dear ones lost on the gory field of battle. While Peace pleads in anguish to save the lives of men, the gods of war in thunderous shouts, hurl defiance in her face. In the midst of such conditions we come to you to share the privilege of studying together the new prob- lems that have been so suddenly thrust upon us. Alone we are weak. United with you we shall be strong for our work. Encouraged by your counsel we will determine to carry our part of the great advance that is now started by this people in Western Canada. We are surrounded by unprecedented wealth of oppor- tunity, and are anxious to utilize every unit to the glory of God in the saving of souls. TERRITORY This report represents the Province of Saskatche- wan, which was organized into a conference in the year 1912. This province "is the central one of the prairie provinces, and occupies an area of land in the middle west of Canada some 760 miles long from north to south, and on an average, 320 miles wide from east to west." The area of Saskatchewan is about 265,000 square miles, which is equal to that of France, or twice that of the British Isles. EVANGALISTIC WORK. God has graciously blessed the labors of our workers during the past few years. At the time of our organi- zation, in 1912, we had seven churches with a total membership of 131. At the close of 1915 we had 18 churches having an aggregate membership of 590. Our ministerial force is not large. In 1914 we had four ordained ministers, including the president of the conference, three licentiates, and three holding missionary credentials, the latter being the secretary- treasurer, the Sabbath-school secretary and the field secretary of the conference. During the year 1915 the Saskatchewan conference had five ordained min- isters. including the president, one licensed minister, and three licensed missionaries as indicated for 1914. Two of the ministers were ordained the past year. CHURCHES AND SABBATH KEEPERS. We feel grateful to God for the favorable growth that has been made in churches and Sabbath-keepers during the past biennial period. The number of baptisms in 1914 were 64, and in 1915, 138, which is a total of 202 for the two years. The scattered Sabbath-keepers are those who have, lately accepted the truth, and have not had the oppor- tunity of being baptized, and those who have moved into this field but have not had their membership transferred. Home Missionary Institutes were held in all our churches last fall and early winter. This effort proved a great help to our people, and developed a good ad- vance in general missionary work. In some of our churches we will find lay members holding systematic Bible studies with their neighbors in private homes, and in school houses. Others are writing missionary letters and distributing literature. It is firmly believed that Home Missionary Institutes at regular periods in our local churches will prove to be among the might- iest factors in thoroughly arousing our people to enlist in the finishing of the work of God in this generation. The value of the tracts, papers and books used by our lay brethren last year amounts to $4,035.56. They also distributed 3,702 Harvest Ingathering Signs, and 1,508 foreign papers in the campaign for missions. From this effort we secured $529.70 before the begin- ning of the present year. This amount is $i41.62 above our share of $100,000. MISSIONARY VOLUNTEER SOCIETIES. We feel a heavy burden for our young people, and are striving to build up this department to the required relative strength. The Young People's Missionary Volunteer secretary has been able to organize several societies, and secure a comparatively good number of subscribers to the Missionary Volunteer Reading Course. Last year our young people raised $340.00 in cash and pledges for home and foreign missions. Our territory is so large, our constituency so scat- tered, the expense so great in travelling, that it is not easy to build a 'strong work in this department in as short. a time as may be done where favorable condi- tions prevail. SABBATH SCHOOLS. To us, as i other' conferences, the Sabbath-school department has become a valuable factor both as a supplement to regulate evangelical work, and as a help in raising funds for missions. On the basis of the membership used for the Twenty-cent-a-week Fund for 1915, the Sabbath- schools raised 21c. per capita last year. Per capita per week:- 1914 � _1915 Church membership � 15c � 111c* Sabbath-school membership. � �Gain � Offerings Rec'd. Schools Memb. Offerings $4,246.20 11 501 $2,872.54 8,301.33 6 69 4,056.18 TRACT SOCIETY. The direct sales by our Tract Society for the past two years as compared with the preceding biennial period, are as follows: Biennial � Sales � Gain 1912-1913 � $5,773.68 �$4,058.59 1914-1915 � 6;080.31 � 89.48 Biennial Summary of Colporteur and Office Sales :— Sales � Gain 1912-1913 Colporteur and Magazine $24,398.45 $11,759.05 1912-1913 Office � 5,773.68 4,058.59 Total � $30,172.13 $15,817.64 2 � WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS Biennial 1912-1913 1914-1915 EDUCATIONAL WORK. 'In 1914 we had five church and two home schools. Last year there were three church and four home Schools with an aggregate enrolment of 56. We are at present in the midst of establishing a conference school at South Battleford. We purpose to open this institution next fall as a ten-grade school, adding the eleventh and twelfth grades as the future may determine. That we are able to build a school of this kind in such a time of trouble is due wholly to a very special opportunity which we believe Provi- dence placed in our way. We are proceeding with the work on a solid cash basis, and are determined that this policy will be fol- lowed until the institution is fully completed. As we turn the minds of our young people to this place, it is not without a full appreciation of the excel- lent work that has been bestowed upon many of our youth by the Alberta Academy. And in the future we will be happy to direct those of our students to this school who desire educational work in advance of what we expect to give. BOOK AND PERIODICAL SALES. In spite of the war which has turned the minds of men into unusual channels of thought and business, our literature sales went beyond our most happy anti- cipations. A ready sale has been found for our books and magazines in all parts of the province. The spirit of inquiry has been very noticeable, and has been the means of encouraging all who have had a part . in extending the truth by use of the printed page. The band of colporteurs who have co-operated with us during the past two years, has been among the most potent forces in our general evangelical work. The consecrated colporteur who will concentrate his whole soul in this God-given work, is bound to suc- ceed, and will finally share with all other laborers, the rewards for soul-winning service. During the year 1914 we had 20 _olporteurs whose combined sales amounted to $10,981.00. The past year (191) we had 25 colporteurs, including one magazine worker. The aggregate book sales for this period were $12,584.07, and magazine sales $657.00, making the total sales by our colporteurs, $13,241.07. Biennial:— —Gain— Colp. �Sales � Colp. � Sales 1912-1913 � 36 � $23,238.46 � 20 � $10,599.05 1914-1915 � 44 � 24,222.07 � 8 �983.62 PERIODICALS. The work with our papers and magazines has been increasing gradually. It is our earnest endeavor to widen the circulation of our regular subscription papers, and to extend the sale of our magazines. Among the papers and magazines that have received the largest circulation during the past two years are the Temperance Instructor, Harvest Ingathering Papers, Signs (weekly and monthly), Life and Health, Watchman and War Extras. These with other papers reached a sale in 1914 of $2,219.10, and in 1915. $2,147.55, making a total for the two years of $4,366.65. 1914-1915 1914-1915 FINANCE. We have been sincerely thankful for the substantial support of our brethren and sisters to the cause of God in both home and foreign field. Despite the financial crisis through which we have been and are passing, the amount of tithes and offerings received show a favorable gain. The 'amount of receipts and gains during the past two years, is shown in the following comparative statement : Biennial Summary of Tithes and Offerings Tithes and Off. Received �Gain 1912-1913 � $32,804.29 �$15,265.19 1914-1915 � 48,100.94 �15,296.06 Total per capita Tithes and Offerings for 1914- 1915 :— Total Believers Members Total p.c. T. and 0., 1914-1915 � � $21.49 4070 � $95.85 Aver. p.c. T. and 0., 1914-1916 � 47.93 The amount of tithes and offerings sent outside our own field during 1914 was $9,992.18, and during 1915, $11,453.53. Over 21% of our tithe and an average of 72% of our offerings are being sent out each year from our conference to aid in the work in other fields. It is our sincerest hope that the efforts and sacri- fices of our loyal brethren and sisters to push the work of God to a glorious triumph, will soon be rewarded with many souls for the kingdom, and that they them- selves will share in the joy of their labors in the un- ending days of eternity. It is a pleasure to report a growing interest in the hearts of our people to help finish the work of God. Our only ambition is to know the blessedness of so full consecration to duty that the manifestation, of Heaven's saving power may be seen in our endeavors to win souls for the kingdom. Most stirring times surround us. The tremendous events that are shaking the frame work of this world, call us to greater earnestness and activity for the saving of the lost. The awful holocaust of the present that reaps a thousand victims a day, is but a gentle prelude to the time of Jacob's trouble. Deep, angry growls of a more furious storm are heard from every quarter of the globe. Soon a humanity, goaded, driven and ridden by masters of greed, will open their arsen- als of pent-up wrath, and hurl their bolts of violence against the superficial structure of an intensified civili- zation. The clock of time will strike its last hour ; and Heaven's chancery sound the decisive words, "It is done." � A. C. GILBERT, COlporteur and Magazine $24,222.07 Loss 176.38 Office � 6,080.31 � 306.63 Total � $30,302.38 � $130.25 (Net) WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS � 3 RE-ESTABLISHING THE INTERNATIONAL BRANCH A few weeks ago the International Branch of the Pacific Press Publishing Association located at College View, Nebraska, burned to the ground. For those connected with the institution these weeks have been filled with their share of inconvenience and perplex- ities, but these have been cheerfully met, and our work is going forward. Not a single issue of our German, Danish-Norwegian, Swedish, or Russian weekly, semi- monthly, and monthly periodicals has been omitted. Although limited, the facilities of a small Lincoln printing office were secured. The linotype was avail- able at nights, so our men have taken turns on the night shift, and at the noon hour, and on Sundays. Having lost our Swedish linotype operator by death the week before the fire, our German and Danish operators have had to carry extra work in order that help could be given on the Swedish. This, with close work on the part of our editors and type men, has enabled us to get the papers through.' They have been folded by hand and mailed from our temporary head- quarters at College View. Practically no break has occurred in filling our orders for books and tracts. A good supply of most of the foreign books and tracts we carry is on hand at other offices, and we are promptly drawing upon them for the publications desired. Our ruins have been cleared up; and machinery and paper that could be used cared for. Following the Council at Battle Creek held March 8, at which it was unanimously voted to re-establish the International Branch in or near Chicago, a location was selected in Brookfield, Illinois, which is on the Burlington, five miles west of the •Chicago city limits ; 12 miles from the Union station. This is a nice sub- urban town of about two thousand. Twenty-six local trains, besides good street car service, connect it with Chicago. The erection of a two-storey brick building will go forward at once. This will be ready for our work by June 1, about which time the transfer will be made from College View. There is a general feel- ing that the establishment of this publishing house at the centre of our great foreign population will mark a new era in our work for the foreigners in America. Elder F. W. Paap, from the standpoint of the Home Missionary Department of the North American Divi- sion writes: "I am in full accord with this movement, believing that it will be the very best thing. We have Just reached the point in our work where a keener interest is being mani- fested in our foreign work than ever before. I believe that it is a duty on the part of the English-speaking people to communicate the light to their friends and neighbors, no matter of what nationality, and I believe that it is in the providence of God that we have the message so power- fully presented in our literature. You can count on us, and we are praying that God will overrule in all these things, and cause all to see light in His leadings, and greatly bless in the larger work that is contemplated in the present awakening." Brother Steen Rasmussen, who is acting secretary of the Foreign Department of the North American Division says: "I believe this step is in the providence of God. I am sure it. will give an impetus to our foreign literature work that we have never dreamed about" The Foreign Department headquarters will be located in our building in Brookfield. Brother Ras- mussen will act as supervising editor of our Russian, Italian, Roumanian, Servian and Bohemian periodicals. In a later letter he writes: "As time passes on, I feel more and more confident that the Lord is going to awaken our people throughout the land to the great needs of this home foreign field." Scores of other leading workers likewise believe that a new era has come for our foreign publishing work. Will not our people everywhere join in this belief, and relate themselves to our foreign work in the same strong way that we believe our publishing house is being related to it. Even as our publications are to "be issued in many languages," so are they to be car- ried by consecrated persons to the peoples who read these languages. The time has certainly come for a mighty forward movement, in behalf of our foreign America. � J. E. FEREEN. WHO WILL VOLUNTEER? "If there is one work more important than another it is that of getting our publications before the people." I wonder how many of us believe this and are plan- ning on putting into practice our belief. It may be of interest to many to know that our sixty colporteurs last year sold nearly $30,000 worth of books. Surely this is a splendid record. This means that many homes in Western Canada have the truth placed within their reach. Only in the day of final rewards will it be known how many have been influenced in the right way by these publications. We have come to the beginning of another canvass- ing season and in this Union a large army should rally to the standard of the Lord. Many are enlisting to fight for their country and their King; surely we should be as loyal to our Heavenly King. We are living in perilous times and therefore we should do all we can to help souls to make right decisions. The things taking place about us furnish a text for us to introduce our work. May the Lord help us to answer his call while it is called today. I believe the financial- -rosoects will be o-ood. We should go with an earnest desire to save souls, and if the Lord should bless us financially, thank Him for it, and if not, thank Him for the call to be a co-worker with Him. W. L. MANFULL. Manitoba Conference ()Mc. Address. 418 Lansdowne Avenue. Winnipeg, Manitoba. President, E. M. Chapman: Secretary-Treasurer. B. L. Grund- set: Sabbath-school Secretary. Mrs. V. W. Robb: .c.duca- Ilona] Secretary. Geo. R. Soper: Missionary Volunteer Secretary, Mrs. Barbara Cowan; Tract Society and Home Missionary Secretary. B. L. Grundset; Religious Liberty Secretary. E. M. Chapman. RUSSELL I recently spent a few days with this church, which is 228 miles from Winnipeg and seventeen miles into the country. These people are not afraid to drive a few miles even in bad weather to get the minister, as they Flo not see one very often. It was a great pleasure to he with these brethren again and find them in such Perfect harmony with all points of this great message. This German church believes in a living Christ and not only know Jesus is in the heavenly sanctuary but that he also lives in their hearts. Their prayers are directed to the Father through Jesus, who intercedes for them. I wish, by the way, that all our German, 4 � WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS Manitoba brethren believed the same. . Four, days were spent in visiting and holding services 'and _as we studied the Bible together the Lord came very near and it was good to be there. There is an army of young people and children at this place who with their energies rightly directed will become a power in giving the message for this time. The faithful old elder has served in that capacity for a number of years and God has blessed his work. An elder of a local church who is as true to the message as the needle is to the pole is a valuable asset of the conference. CANVASSING WORK Manitoba is a good field for the canvasser. We have noticed that the past two years has netted the canvasser as much per hour as before the war, and since we had a good crop last year we have every reason to believe that this will be a good time for the canvasser. •We have-,believers in the province who could make a success in this line and I believe some feel conscience-smitten as they realize we are nearing the end and they are standing all the day idle as far as God's work is concerned. We ought to have fifteen or twenty agents but sometimes we fear we will have less fhan one-half of this number. I was much inter- ested in Elder Shaw's article of the last issue and as I read it I wondered how many would respond- and enlist in this noble work of getting the printed page before the people. � E. M. CHAPMAN. � 0 � MISSIONARY VOLUNTEER MOVEMENT Dear Young People :— You will be interested in knowing whether we, in Manitoba, succeeded in reaching our 1915 goal or not. Out of the five points set before us, we reached the goal on two and almost on a third. It is gratifying to see that you, so many of whom are isolated, have done so well; but I have faith enough in you to know that you can do better this year. Our 1916 goal is :- 10 voting people converted. -'young people' to read the Bible through. 15 Attainment certificates. 15 •Reading Course certificates. $145.00 to Missions. Shall we 'not all do our best to reach this goal? Not merely to have it said that it was reached, but for the educational and spiritual value derived from the work. If you could read the letters written by other young, people and know of the 'blessings they are receiving, you would be encouraged to persevere in the work. Would it not be a good idea for each and every one to faithfully report all work done during the quarter just ended? Your report will be a real help to some- one. And now my wish for you is that when Christ comes to gather His elect, He may send an angel for each young. person and child in Manitoba. It is not an ,impossible thing, but each individual must decide for himself and herself whether or not it shall be. NOW Is the' deciding time, while Jesus still pleads with us Ito come -confessing our sins and follow Him. Our •Aforning Watch texts show that there is forgiveness for us. How thankful-we should be to have the oppor- .tti-;ty "of accepting it! MRS. BARBARA COWAN. A LIVING SAVIOUR "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a work- man that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." II. Tim. 2: 15. These words imply there 'is danger of dividing the word wrongly or this admonition would not have been necessary. Study, comparing spiritual things with spiritual, here a little and there a little. The Word of God is a safe and sure guide in all spiritual matters and settles every question with the child of God. God has also given us the Spirit of Prophecy in these last days that we may be doubly sure of the truths taught to us as a people. There has been danger all along since sin gained a- foothold, and a special danger is pointed out to the remnant people in the following texts : Gal. 1: 6-8, Acts 20: 28-30, II. Tim. 3 : 15-17, and II. Peter 1:19- 21. What was revealed to the New Testament writers applies also to us. In the Testimonies, Vol. IV., pages 340-348, we are 'told that frequently the devil calls a' council of his angels to plan ways to deceive God's peo- ple. "We must be present at all their gatherings. I will have upon the ground, as my agents, men holding false doctrines mingled with just enough truth to deceive souls. We must cause distraction and division. In order to sustain erroneous doctrines or unchristian practices, they seize upon passages of Scripture separated from the .context, perhaps quoting half of a single verse as proving their point, when the remaining portion would show the meaning to be quite the opposite. Thus many do willfully pervert the Word of God. Others, who have an active imagination, seize upon the figures and symbols of Holy Writ, and interpret to suit their fancy." "It is a masterpiece of Satan's deceptions to keep the minds of men searching and conjecturing in regard to that which. God has not made known, and which he does not intend we should understand. Every conceivable form of error will be accepted by those who wilfully reject the truth. Another dangerous heresy is the doctrine that denies the divinity of Christ. Men who have no experimental knowledge of Jesus will yet assume an appearance of great wisdom, as though their judgment were beyond question, and boldly declare that the Son of God had no existence prior to his first advent to this world. This position directly contradicts the plainest statements of our Saviour concerning himself ; yet it is received with favor by a large class who claim to believe the Scrip- tures. With such persons it is folly to argue. Such errors, give evidence of their own ignorance of God and His Son. Still another subtle and mischievous error is the fast spreading belief that Satan has no existence as a personal being; that the name is used in Scripture merely to represent men's evil thoughts and desires." In Vol. I., page 17, we read that "Satan in Heaven before his rebellion, was a high and exalted angel, next in honor .to God's dear Son—Jesus, God's dear Son, was one with the F,ather before the angels were created. The Father then made known that it was 'ordained by himself that Christ, His Son. should be equal with Himself.. ;The word of the Son was to be obeyed as readily as the word of the Father, In the creation of the earth His -Son would carry out His will and His purpose, but would do nothing of Him- WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS � 5 self alone. Satan was envious and jealous 01: Jesus Christ." Jesus made all things. Col. 1 :37-17, Jno. 1 :3, and had all power. Matt. 28 :18. We are to teach what Jesus commanded. Gen. 1 :26. "And God said, let us make man in our own image, after our likeness." Thus Adam's body and form was like his creator (Jesus), whom Moses saw as recorded in Ex. 33:20-23, having a body, and who also wrote the Ten Command- ments with his finger. See. P. and P., page 366. Satan's anger has been manifest against Jesus all along the way. He led the angry mob who put the Saviour to death, and purposed to hold him in the grave. Having thus failed he originated the lie which many still believe that he was never raised. In Matt. 1: 18, we find divinity and humanity united in the birth of Jesus. This is a mystery that cannot be explained, any more than we can tell where God came from. It is a wicked error for anyone to claim that.His father was a man. If this were so we would have only a human Saviour, and at His death a human sacrifice, hence, the human family simply saving themselves. It required someone who had life in himself to pay the price, and bring salvation to us. Even the life of an angel would not answer. So Jesus, our creator, died on the gross and rose again. After accompanying the disciples forty days he was seen by them as He returned to heaven. Acts 1: 9-11.. He returned to make us homes. John 14: 1-3. A few years later, in Acts 7:55-59, Stephen saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God and conversed with him as he was dying. Paul, still later, as he was nearing Damascus, heard a voice which said, "Paul, Paul, why persecutest thou me?" "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest." Rev. 1: 1. You will notice this was A.D. 96, so 56 years after His resurrection He is giving His servant John some special revelations con- cerning his church. Verse 18, Jesus says, "I am He that liveth and was dead; and behold I am alive' for evermore." Vol. IV., p. 313. "The intercession of Christ in man's behalf in the sanctuary above is as essential to the plan of salvation as was His death upon the cross. By His death He began that work which after His resurrection He ascended to com- plete in heaven. The sanctuary in heaven is the very centre of Christ's work in behalf of men. It concerns every living soul." The most unscriptural and absurd and destructive thing that could be taught is that Jesus is now dead. Anyone 'believing that is robbed of an advocate, he has no forgiveness of sin, no salva- tion, no possible show to gain heaven at all. E. M. CHAPMAN. � 0 � MANITOBA NEWS NOTES Eider E. M. Chapman spent last Sabbath with the Russell Church. A number of young people at Russell expect to be bap- tized as soon. as it is convenient. It is reported that Bro. Geo. Soper is teaching a very successful school at Bro. Ben. Johnstone's home. Are you improving the time by scattering the truth in the printed page and every other way in giving the message? Sister James McCreery has gone to take treatment at the Ninette Sanitorium. We all join in praying for her recovery. Sister E. B. Goodrich, who for the past winter has been with us in the magazine work, has left the city for a visit With her children in Oregon. We have received word from Elder C. F. McVagh, our new Union Conference president, that he will speak in the Winnipeg Church the 15th of April. Camp meeting will this year be held from the 15th to the 25th of June at Minnedosa if arrangements can be made there for suitable grounds. 'Let all begin to lay plans to attend this meeting. Sister Bradley, who has successfully recovered. from an operation at the General Hospital, Winnipeg, underwent another operation the 5th. Remember Sister Bradley at the throne above, that she may speedily be restored to health. A pretty wedding took place at Russell, Mr. LoUis Lisky (uncle of Louis Lifilty, who attended school at Lacombe), to Miss Natalia Btlrgemeuster, two estimable young people of the Russell church. We join in wishing them a happy and useful life. Brother F. C. Finch, located at Rainy River, is circulating 100 "Signs" and 100 "Watchman" this month during his spare time. Brother Finch works for the C.N.R. Railway, but finds time to circulate a good supply of magazines every month. Several are interested• in the truth and some want to go with him this summer to attend our' camp meeting. Let others follow this good example. � 0 MANITOBA CONFERENCE Report of Funds Received for First Quarter, 1916 Church � Total Tithe Missions S.S. Don. Home Missions Austin $372.30 $163.00 $ 16.00 $27.30 $ 22.00 pradwardine �175.47 72.05 38.49 46.44 18.49 Beausejour � 26.20 14.20 .... 12.00 Brandon � 126.15 103.16 . � • � • � • 23.00 Conference � 368.87 101.90 156.32 26.65 84.00 Carberry � 3.40 .35 .... 3.05 Dauphin � 29.80 7.50 1.50 20.80 Mord'en � 47.35 23.60 9.50 14.25 Russell � 39.15 5.00 21.65 12.50 Scandinavia � 1.20 ..... .... 1.20 Winnipeg, English � 225.44 168.65 12.90 43.89 Icelandic � 54.98 49.94 .... 5.04 " � German � 30.22 4.26 25.96 $1,500.53 $713.60 $400.36 $249.58 $136.99 B. L. GRUNDSET, Treasurer. Saskatchewan Conference Office Address. 103 Willoughby-Sumner Blk., Saskatoon, Sass President. A. C. Gilbert; Secretary-Treasurer, U Wissner, Field Secretary. L. A. Philpott; Tract Society Secretary. 1.T. Wissner: Educational Secretary, A. C. Gilbert: Sab- bath-school Secretary. Mrs. A. C. Gilbert; Religious Liberty Secretary. M. Mackintosh; Missionary Volunteer and Home Missionary Secretary. 0. Ziprirk. REGINA ' Since my last report, three families have moved to the United States: However, our congregation remains about the same 'because new ones are coming in as others move away. On March 29th we baptized six ; three of them will unite with the east side church and three with us. We were very much disappointed because we expected to baptize not less 'than twelve, but one was sick, another prevented by her husband, another lacked faith in God and went to work on the Sabbath and so on, through the list. We have many perplexing things to deal with in city work and we need the prayers of all God's people. Yesterday we were made to rejoice again because at the close of the morning service, one soul declared herself prepared for baptism at. the first opportunity, and in the afternoon another, for whom we have long prayed, made the surrender. All the members are doing what missionary work they can, consequently the church is bound to prosper. M. MACKINTOSH. 6 � WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS TO THE WORKERS' BAND Dear Children :- I have not forgotten you, even though I have not written for several weeks. I have been so pleased with what our band accomplished last year. I know 'you will be glad to know that the money for our teacher in India, Mrs. Joshi, has all been raised and sent on its way. How pleased you are for having had a part in raising this money. I had a letter from Brother Enoch a while ago, and I am sure you will be interested in part of it, so will tell you. This is what he says: "I notice that you have asked about Mrs. Joshi. I am glad that your children raised the money to pay her wages last year. She is still teaching at the Panvel Girl's School. Her case is a very interesting one. Her husband was a high caste Brahman young man who came to me soon after he became a Christian. He translated Steps to Christ into Mai'athi, andJalthough he was much preju- diced against Adventists when he began the work, yet the translation of that 'book brought him into this truth. He had a terrible struggle with the tobacco habit. As the missionaries of other churches them- selves use tobacco, it was hard for him to see why he should give it up. It had a very strong hold on him, but eventually he got the victory over that habit and gave up a good position as a professor in a high school in a native state and joined our mission staff of workers in the fall of 1913. Within three months of the time that he came to us, he was stricken with paralysis, and in three weeks was dead. Just three days before he died, his second little son was born whom he barely recognized. His wife was left a widow with two baby boys, but she has remained with the mission and is still teaching school at Panvel. I want you to pass on, "for Brother Enoch my thanks to them (the chil- dren) for the splendid way in which they worked to support Mrs. Joshi last year." Brother Enoch also said he would try to get a pic- ture of Mrs. Joshi and her two little boys to send us. I am hoping it will be here in time for camp-meeting so we can all see it. And now, children, I wonder how many of you have begun to plan for your work this year. You see we are in April now, which means that summer is not so far away. I was so glad to learn the other day that one of our W. B. boys had already set a "missionary hen." And I know one girl, too, who has some plans ready, I believe. Perhaps others have, too, and I have not heard about it yet. Let us not forget to ask Jesus to bless our efforts as we endeavor to raise money for His work. You know His blessing makes every difference. So let us live near to Him that we may ever do His will. I hope, you are all.learning your Sabbath-school les- sons real well each week, and you know, of course, this would include the memory verse. How nice it is that we can learn so many verses so that we can repeat them from memory. Let us 'be faithful and learn what we can of the Bible as the days pass by. And now. dear children, I think this will be all for this time. May the dear Lord bless and keep you all is my prayer. Lovingly, MRS. A. C. GILBERT. SASKATCHEWAN NEWS NOTES Elder Sulzle spent a few days with the church at Ros- thern, and is now back at Aberdeen again. Elders Shaw and Humann, Professor Dick and Brother Rommel met with the building committee at the school at Battleford this week. We are pleased to say that a number of our people have responded to our request for missionary reports, and we hope that we will hear from many more during the next few days. The following were visitors to the office this week: Brother Hanson from Edmonton, Brother Wesley Searle from Glenside, Brother Carlin, Spooner, and Brother Scog- gins, Lacombe. Brother Forshaw has left the city for McGee, where 'he will hold a series of meetings. We hope to have a good report of the work there for an early issue of this paper. Sister Forshaw is visiting with her parents at Hanley. Elder Shaw accompanied Elder Gilbert and Brothers Wiesner and Neufek3 on their return from Battleford, and after spending a few days in the city he left for Edmonton, to spend Sabbath with the church there. � 0 � SASKATCHEWAN CONFERENCE REPORT OF RECEIVED FOR FIRST QUARTER, 1916 FUNDS Other Churches Total Tithe Funds Conference � $2,644.35 $1,680.30 $ 964.55 Dundurn � 208.27 103.57 104.70 Fenwood . � 571.80 2713.80 295.00 Fox Valley � 26.75 26.75 Hillesden � 104.25 82.75 21.50 McLean � 221.82 10845 112.97 Macrorie � 736.30 412.85 322.95 Prussia � 112.20 '65.95 46.25 Queen Centre. � 194.10 100.60 93.50 Regina � 141.65 74.26 67.30 East Regina � 77.90 66.30 21.60 Rosthern � 147.80 98.05 54.75 Rouleau � 810.00 491.96 318.06 Sonningdale � 299.43 87.70 ,211.73 Surbiton � 170.98 96.00 74.98 Sunset � 381.05 185.00 196.05 Swift Current � 167.25 92.00 75.26 Waldheim � 771.58 832.03 439.55 $7,787.98 $4,339.55 $2,448.43 U. WiISJSNER, Secretary-Treasurer. British Columbia Conferene Office Address, 1708 Maple Street. Vancouver. WC President, J. G. Walker; Secretary-Treasurer Conference and Tract Society, J. B. Giddings; Department Secretaries-- Religious Liberty, T. G. 'Walker; Health and Temperance. E. R. Potter; Sabbath School and Home Missionary, Bertha Lofstad; Missionary Volunteer, 'Lydia Stickle. VISITING THE CHURCHES Since my return from the Union Conference on March 3, I have visited the two largest churches in Vancouver, the brethren in Nanaimo, the three families of our people at Comox and Cumberland, and the Vernon, Grandview and Silver Creek churches of the Okanagan district. The brethren and sisters in Vancouver are actively engaged in distributing literature, and doing more than heretofore in magazine work among the foreign population, die Chinese, the Japanese and the Hindus. They miss Brother Warren and Brother and Sister McMillan, but active missionary work for others is the best preventative for any reaction that might come after. The believers at Nanaimo are of ciP0(1 r:ouracre art are especially 'pleased at .the nrognect of having- the camp-meeting there this year. They have obtai-ed WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS � 7 permission to pitch tents in the city park and use the pavilion for our public meetings. When Brother staric made the request for the use of the park, the mayor of the city spoke very encouragingly of our people. Coinox I visited Brother R. J. Smith and family. My stay was only over one night, but the visit was a pleasant one and I found them of good courage. On Friday, March 17, Brother Smith took me over to Cumberland, Where Brother W. C. White and Brother Thomas Pearse and their families live. We had Sab- bath meeting and also a Sunday night meeting in the school house, as our little church there had broken in with the weight, of snow. The building is almost a total wreck. I felt thankful for the kind, cordial way in which the brethren and sisters received me. The visit was a most enjoyable one. It seemed that the Lord drew especially near. The following Friday, March 24, I was in Arm- strong, purposing to stay with the Grandview brethren for three or four days. Sunday the Canvassers' Insti- tute closed that Brother Manfull had been holding for a week with several prospective canvassers. I was pleased to, spend Sunday with them. The church school there is doing nicely, only at this season the attendance is decreasing. Brother and Sister Noble have agreed to stay through the next school year. At Vernon we had two meetings, one for business and the other a public service. At the business meet- ing the officers of the church were appointed and also the communion service held. Brother F. Nosely was elected to the leadership. The believers of the little church at Vernon are of splendid courage and doing a good work. At Glenema I visited every family, spent an hour or two at the church school taught by Sister Lydia Stickle, held two services on the Sabbath and one nublic meeting Sunday night at the school house near Brother Hoover's. Amid the trials the brethren at Silver Creek have T,0,4 has been pre-sent and nearly all sound the HI note of courage. They will enter will- ingly into the missionary campaign Of the future and thus help to swell the "Loud Cry" in fulfillment of the word of God. � J. G. WALKER. � 0 CALLED TO VANCOUVER Since calling attention to the present opportunities in connection with the temperance movement in the province, our Conference Committee have given con- sideration to the matter and consider it important that I give my time to that work, and have advised me to locate in Vancouver for the purpose of working to bet- ter advantage. At this writing I am .en route to Vancouver, where with Elder Walker, Brother Giddings and others, we shall seek to assist and to secure the co-operation of the leading temperance organizations in the province. After visiting friends at Vernon and other points in the Okanagan, Mrs. Potter will join me on the coast. We feel thankful that Brother and Sister Bell- chamber have been able to locate near Kelowna, where they can look after the increasing interest there. Let us remember them and the work there in our prayers. E. R. PorrEn. EDGEWOOD I recently spent a few days with the little company of Sabbath-keepers at this place, and found all of good courage. A spirit of opposition and prejudice against the message has been caused by the introduc- tion of Canright's book, but notwithstanding, there is a genuine spirit of inquiry and seeking after the truth. One encouraging feature of the work here is the devel, opment of prospective workers among those who have recently accepted the message. One young man who has taken his stand amid the fiercest opposition in his home, has had experience in preaching the gospel in England. Another, a native of Holland, has talent and characteristics that will make him a light bearer among his people and already the Spirit of the Lord is inclining his mind in that direction. Another young man who was planning to study for the Baptist ministry, is now purposing to enter our Lacombe Academy. Brother Passmore, who has been leading out in the services of the little com- pany, is enjoying much of the blessing of the Lord, and gaining an experience that will fit him for a greater work. I will never forget one experience that came to me during this visit. I visited, during part of my stay, at the hospitable home of Brother Passmore, who lives across the lake from Edgewood. The lake, northward from the town, froze solid and was impassable to the boat which, during the greater part of the winter, came only as far as Edgewood. At the time of my visit the ice was just at the 'breaking point. However, I walked across the lake the morning after I arrived.. Brother Passmore decided the•next day that it would be unsafe to risk it any longer, as I broke through the ice once on ,my trip over, so we transported his boat two miles down the lake to the margin. of the ice and open lake, and here was where the experience came. The water was comparatively calm when we left the shore, but before we reached the middle of the lake, a terrific wind developed. We -were crossing just a few rods from the margin of the ice, which, for perhaps •a hundred feet. was broken into large ragged chunks of one foot or more in thickness. The waves were soon running four feet high, and notwith- standing our combined efforts, we found it impossible to turn our boat to the gale, but were rapidly being carried sideways into that roaring, churning mass of ice. I imagine our feelings were very similar to those experienced by individuals who have found themselves being carried helplessly to the brink of the Niagara cataract. We lifted our hearts in silent prayer to our Helper, and I truly believe He helped us, for even after we entered the ice, we were enabled to turn our boat heading the gale and succeeded in pulling out 'of the ice and reaching the shore more or less drenched, with our boat partly filled with water. We are beginning a series of meetings in Nelson April 2, and are planning to .continue these every night except Saturday. We ask that God's people in this Union field remember this effort in their prayers. � C. E. WOOD. � 0 � SOME CHANGES . . Just recently a call came from Honolulu for Sister Bertha Lofsiad to connect with the work there. She has been connected with the work in British Columbia for a number of years, and we feel loath to pail with 8 � WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS her, but the work • on the Hawaiian Islands will be benefitted by her experience. Her presence among us has been appreciated and will long be remembered. Mrs. Sadie M. Jemsen, of Nanaimo, takes the work of the Sabbath School and the Home Missionary Departments and all mail pertaining to those lines should now be directed to her. The address is Box 559, Nanaimo, B.C. Brother Potter and family will move to Vancouver, first to help in the vigorous Temperance Campaign to be carried on till election time, and then to take up work in that city. Elder Burrill will have work on Vancouver Island, which has had no laborer since Elder Conway left us. Brother Bellchamber continues the work in Kelowna and will be joined by others till camp-meeting, which will be held at that place August 14-20 of this year. We expect this season will be a profitable one in soul-saving and our lay members are joining us in the effort. � J. G. WALKER. � 0 � FAREWELL Soon I shall be leaving British Columbia for my new field of labor, the Hawaiian Islands. While I am thankful for the privilege of having a part in the foreign work, still it is hard to leave British Columbia and the work here that I love so much. But I shall never be so far away that I shall lose my interest in British Columbia and shall look for the reports each quarter and watch the progress of the work. Each Sabbath-school will be remembered and each mission- ary society, and I trust you will not forget to pray for me and the work in the Hawaiian Islands. Your letters will always be greatly appreciated. My address there will be 767 Kinau St., Honolulu, T.H. As I leave, to my mind came the words of the text so often quoted : "The Lord watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another."-Gen. 31 : 49. � BERTHA LOFSTAD. � O � LIVE SABBATH SCHOOLS A short time ago while visiting the South Van- couver Church, I was very much impressed with the plan followed, at their Sabbath-school, so thought others would be interested in it. Sabbath-school was conducted as usual, a good interest was shown in each part of the work and the lessons were well learned. The children, however, did not recite their memory verses as is the custom in many of our Sabbath-schools ; that was to follow later. After Sabbath-school the church service was held and at the beginning the elder called on each one of the children for the memory verse. There were a number of children and each one arose in his turn and not one missed in giving the verse correctly, their only help being the large Picture Roll, which I was glad to see hanging where all could plainly see it. Then followed a discourse on the Sabbath-school lesson of that day. Of course the children were inter- ested and so were we all ; for much study had been bestowed upon the lesson text and thoughts so new and beautiful were brought out that it did not seem like going over the Sabbath-school lesson again, and yet all that was said was plain even to the children, because they understood the text so well. Thus we see .how much may be learned from going over and over the wonderful lessons of the Bible. A most interesting Thirteenth Sabbath program was carried out at Nanaimo, Sabbath, March 25th. The time of the regular church service was given for this. The program was taken largely from the Thirteenth Sabbath leaflet, and when this especially interesting leaflet was presented by the children in talks, readings, recitations, and dialogues, it left in the memory of each one present a missionary lesson not soon to be forgotten and taught us much regarding the important but needy work there. In response to this earnest plea for help an offering of $11.00 was given. Other good reports are coming in regarding the Thirteenth Sabbath and its special offering. We know the Lord will add His blessing to the offerings so cheerfully given to carry forward the work in this land of darkness-the needy Philippine Islands. BERTHA LOFSTAD. � 0 � BRITISH COLUMBIA NOTES Miss Edyth Loveridge recently went from her home at Vernon, B.C., to Walla Walla, Washington. Brother Robert Hardy and family have recently from Nanaimo to Grandview, in the Okanagan. We were glad to see Brother Thomas Pearee of Cumber- land, who visited the office on his way home from Michel, B.C. Mr. Cecil Haines, of Pitt Meadows, is at Viola, Idaho, for the summer. Before going he underwent a serious opera- tion on his ear. Sister Carlson of Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, made a pleas- ant call at the office on her way home atter spending the winter in Southern California. Miss Lofstad just returned to the office after spending some time in Nanaimo, assisting Sister Jemson as she takes up the Sabbath-school and Home Missionary work. Elder A. 0. Burrill is planning to take a company of our brethren to the School .1Parm at Pitt Meadows, to help put in the crop and to clear the land. This donation of labor will be greatly appreciated. Brother Geo. Crane and family have recently moved to Vancouver from New Westminster. Our Vancouver brethren, and especially the members of the West Vancouver Church, extend to them a hearty welcome. A Canvasser's Institute has just closed at Grandview in the Okanagan. We hope as a result to see some good colporteur work this summer. Brother W. L. Manfull con- ducted the Institute. Elder Walker was present to help during the last part. � 0 BRITISH COLUMBIA Report � of � Tithes � and � Offerings Ending Church Armstrong � Conference � March 31, Received Three 1916 Funds 20o Week .... $ 92.95 Months Funds Home $ � 2.70 3.35 Tithe $ 37.05 62.70 Firvale � 74.45 10.50 .70 Grandview � 350.00 140.14 10 nn I umen � 3.95 2.25 .25 Manson (Pitt Meadows) � 22.63 11.95 .... Nanaimo � 54.88 23.71 7.16 Nelson � 70.83 23.76 .... Penticton � 76.29 29.20 2.53 Silver Creek. � 45.25 60.56 .... Vancouver, 42nd Avenue � 48.90 2.82 " � Union � Street. 153.88 28.99 " � South � 50.00 21.06 " � West � 53.21 28.20 .... Vernon � 81.06 18.20 3.39 Victoria � 54.80 13.89 .... Isolated and Miscellaneous 320.67 40.37 182.45 61,561e45' $548.55 $212.53 J. B. GIDDINGS, Treasurer. moved WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS � 9 Alberta Conference Urfice Address, 602 Seventeenth Ave. West, Calgary, Alberta. eresicient, H. Humann; Secretary-Treasurer. F. L. Hummel; Educational ana Missionary Volunteer Secretary, Hattie A. Beardsley; Field and Missionary Secretary, R. P. Mooney; Sabbath-school Secretary, Mrs. H. Gertrude Rick; Tract Society Secretary, F. L. Hommel; Religious Liberty Secretary. J. L. Wilson. OUR FRIDAY EVENINGS AT THE ACADEMY "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, 0 Jerusalem."—Ps. 122: 1, 2. To the child of God the privilege of worshipping with his brethren is most precious. There are many of God's people scattered throughout the world who are deprived of these precious privileges. The stud- ents of our schools are specially favored in this respect. The sweetest hour of school life is unquestionably the Sabbath evening social meeting.r It is held during the first moments of the precious day when the cares of the week have just been laid aside. ..It is an inspiring sight to look into the bright intelligent faces of the students as they gather to worship God. After the presentation of some practical subject by one of the teachers, each student is permitted to relate his personal experience and offer his tribute of praise to the Saviour. It would certainly be a source of encouragement to parents and patrons could they wit- ness the prompt response in these meetings. It is not unusual to, see as many as forty rise to their feet at once to relate their various experienceS which are sometimes bright, sometimes dark, but always helpful. It seems to be the time for taking a spiritual inventory, for recounting resources and liabilities, losses and gains. Our Friday evening services not only indicate spiritual growth on the part of the majority of our students, they also are a great source of strength and encouragement. Whoever voluntarily absents himself from Sabbath- school, prayer and Sabbath meetings, not only neglects his plain duty to others, but at the' Same time suffers irreparable loss to his own soul. Everyone needs both to bear his individual testimony and to receive all the spiritual influences available in Christan social services. The message of Heb. 10: 25 especially applies to the people of God today. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is ; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." �P. P. ADAMS. � 0 � CLARESH OLM, WINNIFRED AND CLIVE Since last reporting to the Tidings I have had the privilege of visiting the churches at the above-named places. At the former place Brother Charles Rick took me to his home, about 10 miles from the station. Three meetings were held while I was with this com- pany. and it gave me much pleasure to see the courage and determination of these brethren, some of whom I had never met before. The Lord came very near with His spirit and one brother, together with his wife, gave their hearts to God arid are keeping all His com- mandments. At Winnifred I found the brethren of good courage, but their meetings have been somewhat broken up on account of sickness. Brother Works, who is elder of the church, has had a great load to carry, as almost the whole, family have been sick and several in the hospital at one time, but through all this, their faith is strong in God and they see His guiding hand through it all. There is some interest shown here among their neighbors and they are very anxious to have a worker spend a little time with their church, in order to bring the truth more fully to the attention of these people. The church at Clive is doing well. There is a good spirit manifest among the believers. The spirit of God was present at our meetings and all testified to His goodness and are determined to press on to the end. This church is very active in missionary work and they also desire help to establish those who have l'e^ome interested. I am now located at Calgary, where I am endeavor- ing to follow up the interest created by Eld. C. A. Hansen and wife, who have been laboring here during the past winter. Brethren, remember the work in this city at the throne of Grace, that God will bless the work and that thousands may hear the message. J. K. FISH. OUR FOREIGN NEIGHBORS The needs of these, our own fellow-creatures, have been set before us many times, but the work among them has been sadly neglected. Now the call has sounded for us to take more interest in this so long- neglected cause. The publishers say respecting the burning of cur Foreign Publishing House at College View, Neb.: "We have faith to believe that this very calamity will awaken the interest of our brethren and sisters to re- newed missionary activity." They want us all to send in.lists of subscriptions to the foreign missionary papers and scatter books, Pamphlets and tracts more liberally than ever before among them. The Lord has given us the. truth in our own lan- guage. He has brought these foreigners here, given us religious freedom, established our publishing-houses and tract societies. What is lacking? He wants us to go out and use our talents and these gifts. The College View Press is publishing some splen- did magazines in German, Danish-Norwegian, Russian and Italian languages. Others will follow in Bohe- mian, Roumanian, Servian. etc. These treat on the great events of the day in the light of Bible prophecies and are striking and attractivb. Write to your Tract Society and order these magazines and obtain sub- ccriptions. There are also 25c. tract packages to be had in all these tongues, which can be sold or given away. and there are many hooks and pamphlets to be had. This foreign work is going to grow greatly. Watch for new publications and magazines and have a part in this great work. I was showing an Italian in Cal- gary recently a World's Cricis, in English. He asked nip, "How much is it?" When I replied, "Twenty- five cents." he said. "I will give you fifty cents for mane in Italian." I supplied him with a cony of His Glorious "bearing. in Italian, which he gladly bought, as also did four others. I have been asked to help in the foreign work in Alberta and having spent a few weeks in Calgary, I 10 � WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS am now going out to labor among some Bohemians west of Red Deer, after which I will work in the big Russian settlement east of Edmonton. I cannot speak the languages of these people, but will leave the litera- ture to do the talking. The Lord is not willing that any should perish. May He give us the same mind. Let us bear a part with Him. I need your prayers as I go out among these people. � RALPH E. ROBINSON. � 0 � THE IRVINE CHURCH SCHOOL No doubt if the readers of the Tidings knew all about the experience of the members of the Irvine Church, they would feel the more thankful to God for bringing them out of the darkness into light. As a result of the revival among them last summer, and the encour- agement given by our Educational Secretary, they became anxious about the education of their children and accordingly they planned to get a church school and were promised a teacher. In answer to our Secretary's request, we opened a small school among them on December 27th, with an enrollment of 13. It was our first experience in teach- ing, but we did the best we knew how and one thing we are thankful for is that our efforts were appreciated by both parents and pupils. There has been no fault finding except in one case, and that was for not using the rod to teach a poor little nervous boy, who needed sympathy more than correction. We enjoyed our stay among these brethren very much, even though we could not talk much with the parents nor understand very much of their Sabbath meetings. It is wonderful the change that has taken place in most of these young people. At our last opening exer- cise and testimony meeting, all took part except one, and his tears showed that he was silent, rather because he could not, than because he would not, speak. The tone of their testimonies was, in part: "I am glad for the school, I am glad that God has not left us in dark- ness, but has given us an opportunity to be saved if we will only come to Him." "I am glad that Jesus is preparing a place for us and that soon He is coming to take us home." "I am glad for the school. I learned more this winter than in the three years I went to public school." "I want to profit by the good things I learned this winter." When the younger ones were asked if they didn't want to be better boys and girls to papa and mamma, and to brothers and sisters, the answer in every case was "Yes." We are confident that these children will long re- member that meeting and will have gained strength by the stand they took. May these children grow to be a blessing to poor, sinful humanity and an honor to God and their dear parents. CAM ILLE ARMENEAU. � 0 � FOREMOST Following up the interest which had been created by brethren Zweigle and Leiske at Foremost, I visited this neighborhood and found that Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Zweigle had taken a definite stand for the closing Mes- sage. We held a few meetings in English. About fifteen all told attended these meetings. La Grippe was in the neighborhood and some were quarantined for measles and others were detained some other way. but at least one family, to whom Brother James Wagner sold a D. & R. to last summer, was deeply interested. He told me we could depend on him, that he was thinking our way. The lady told me that she wanted to investigate the matter more fully. In our German meetings we had about the same number present. One dear man, head of a nice family of about seven, consecrated his life to the Lord by openly confessing before all that he was determined to live the truth, according to his knowledge, and he has had opportunity to study it some years. His dear wife couldn't quite decide that way yet, but they kept their first Sabbath last week. Of the third family, the mother is determined to serve the Lord. We may expect a nice Sabbath School of about fif- teen here. They will need more help and I hope it may be given to them. � 0 � STANDARD At the invitation of Brother and Sister Jensen, liv- ing at this place, I spent three days with them, speak- ing to the people on the present truth. The people here are mostly Lutherans, but many of them attended my lectures and expressed themselves well repaid for attending. The audience grew larger each evening and at the last service we had fully one hundred present to hear our lecture on Armageddon. This is one of the places where Sister Sulzle can- vassed last year, and it was indeed refreshing to see the good influence that has accompanied her work. \Are are hoping that these meetings just held may be the means of arousing the people to read the books placed in their hands by our faithful colporteurs. This place promises to be a good field for a tent effort a little later on. Brother and Sister Jensen have a good influence among their neighbors and are doing all they can to spread the truth. C. A. HANSEN. � 0 � AN EXPERIENCE Last week while driving from Ponoka to Lacombe, I was informed that a Swedish family had moved into the country whom I had not visited, so I made up my mind that I would try and visit them before dinner. The roads were so bad that I did not reach there before one o'clock. When I drove into the yard I met a man with a hay fork in his hand, and upon learning that he was the owner of the place, I asked if I might put my horses in his barn and feed them. He said, "Yes, there is an empty stall, put them in ; I am going to help my neighbor haul hay." After feeding my team, I went to the house and found the lady and her daughter papering. Taking out a Watchman, I said, "I suppose you read English. I would like to take your order for this good paper." She answered that they were Swedes, but they read mostly English, and asked if it was not an Adventist paper. I replied that it was, and asked her if she was acquainted with their litera- ture. "In a way," she said. "I thought they were right until I talked with those girls who were preach- ing in Morningside. They call themselves Tramp preachers. I thought much of them at first, but when they said no one would be saved unless they followed their belief, I did not think so much of them. They even condemn their own parents and say that all churches will be lost." C. C. NEUFELD. � -0 � REPORT OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS RECEIVED Alberta � Conference -First Quarter, 1916 -a-Week Funds � Total Tithe Home 20c Funds Conference � $ � 900.65 $ 47.90 $ � 231.95 $1,180.50 Acme � 89.40 23.25 24.50 137.15 Bismark � 96.60 44.20 140.80 Calgary � 386.67 2.00 78.39 467.06 Clemens � 310:00 28.75 338.76 Clive � 28.20 49.35 77.65 Coronation � 45.95 23.00 58.95 Didsbury � 109.20 2.00 76.90 188.10 Edmonton � 302.43 2.44 58.02 3.62.89 Gadsby � 506.90 1.35 41.18 549.43 Granum � 244.70 206.40 371.50 822.60 Hanna � 37.00 84.00 88.20 209.20 Harmattan � 50.00 4.00 15.90 70.40 Hawksdale � 8.35 15.20 23.55 Irvine � 682.00 5.3.118 736.18 Lacombe � 564.89 33.11 225.15 823.15 Leduc � 96.45 7.70 103.15 Leduc (German) � 70.25 38.80 109.05 Lewisville � 181.94 8.25 21.49 211.68 Loyalist � 43.26 73.50 116.76 Midnapore � 52.00 69.17 111.17 Retlaw Company � 51.75 10.30 62.05 Rosebud � 318.00 50.00 273.40 641.40 Sedgewick � 38.90 38.90 Vermilion Lakes � 312.60 6.15 26.15 343.90 Winnifred � 245.90 157.90 403.80 Miscellaneous � 51.62 41.62 $5,773.48 $469.85 $2,136.40 $8,378.73 F. L. HOMMEL, Treasurer. Totals WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS � 11 She then brought her Bible and asked me to explain some texts for her. She mentioned buying a book of a Mr. Tall, but since talking with the girls, had not read much in it. I asked her if she had ever attended any of our meetings and she replied that she had not, but would have attended the camp-meeting last year if she had known of it in time. I then invited her to attend the camp-meeting this coming summer. She is anxious for her daughter, so - I suggested a visit to our school at Lacombe for a day or two, that she might become acquainted with some of our young people. I told her I was going to Lacombe and would ask some of the girls to write to her daughter and whenever she could make them a visit ; they could meet her at the station. As I was leaving they invited me to stop with them at any time, as I was passing, as they had enjoyed my talk so much. � H. E. SHELSTAD. � O � ACADEMY NEWS NOTES Mr. H. Braun, from Didsbury, spent a few days at the Academy, March 23, visiting students and friends. Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Smith and family, from the Valley, will leave Monday, April 10, for their home near Clive. The warm weather has made it possible for the farmers to start their spring work in the vicinity of Lacombe? The coming of Miss Edna Hansen, from Didsbury, swells the enrollment of our school to two hundred and twenty. Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Draper were made happy by the arrival of a little daughter at their home Monday, March 27. We are sorry to lose two more of our students. Mr. T. Wick, of Saskatchewan, and Mrs. L. Dahl, of Loyalist, Alberta. Brother E. L. Stanley and family, recently of Rosedale, have moved to Bismark this week, where they will make their home for the summer. Among the recent visitors at the Academy were Elder C. A. Hansen. of Calgary; Harvey Brown, of Wescott, and Mrs. Frank Hippach, of Clive. Miss Alameada Willett, one of our students, was agree- ably surprised Sunday, April 2, by the visit of her father, Mr. R. L. Willett, from Montana. Mrs. R. P. Mooney and daughter Merle, from the Valley. left Aprll 5th for McLean, Sask., where they will spend some time visiting relatives and friends. A pleasant party was given Sunday, March 19, by the Ladies' Sewing Circle at the home of Mrs. J. L. Beane for some ladies of the Valley who were leaving shortly. Professor E. D. Dick left last Sunday, April 2, for Battle- ford, where he will spend a few days attending a school meeting in the interests of the new Saskatchewan school. A public auction sale was held at the home of Brother E. L. Scoggins across the lake on Friday. March 31. Brother Scoggins expects to make his future home in Oklahoma. Last Thursday morning, 'March 16, Professor Dick gave the first of a series of chapel talks on plant life. His lecture dwelt on the plant life as a whole, introducing later talks. . The picture of the Academy students and teachers was taken on Monday. March 19. This picture shows the largest number of students of any picture yet taken of the school body. Mr. Chester Rick, the Academy farm manager, accom- panied by his wife, left Wednesday, March 22, for their homestead at Hawksdale, where they are spending a few days. We are very sorry to lose three more members of our school family this week. Herman Hansen, John Furman and Joe Wilson found it necessary to drop their school work for this year. We are hoping that they may be able to be with us next year and stay the entire year. Those of our students who are leaving school this week are John Badrug, Luther Long, Ralph 'Carpenter, Robert Gates, and Henry Kielbauch. We are very sorry to have these students leave us and 'hope that it will be possible for them to return early in the next school year to remain throughout the entire school term. Elder P. P. Adams, our Bible teacher, has begun a series of chapel talks on "Various Phases of the Message." The object of these studies is first, that all might have an opportunity of understanding the message; second, that the students might learn how to present the truth to others. These talks will be given every Wednesday morning. Tuesday, March 31, closes the first period of the second semester of our school. The conducting of the school on what is known as the ,perlod basis rather than the month or semester is a new departure for our school. Previous to this we have been• running on the semester basis; that is, the conducting of examinations at the end of the semester only, but in order that the teachers may get in closer con- tact with the pupils, likewise the parents with the school, it, has been considered advisable that the grades should be issued every six weeks. So in accordance with this plan, examinations have been conducted at the close of the period and the grades will be ready. for the students on Monday morning following the close of the period. We think that this will bring about a closer touch between the students and teachers and will prove more satisfactory to parents also. Though it is new to us as students, we believe that we are all going to like it very much. The newly elected Sabbath School officers for the coming ituarter are as follows:- Superintendent � -Mr. R. H. Watchorn. First Assistant (German Dept:)...Adolph Bernhard. Second Assistant (Children's Dept.)... Robert Kitto. Third Assistant � Mrs. L. Hayward. Secretary and. Treasurer �Pearl Pangman. First Assistant (German Dept.) � Anna Neufeld. Second Assistant (Children's Dept.)... Evelyn Knoll. Third Assistant � Lindlay Beane. Organist. � Ethel Wallace. Chorister. � Elwin Rick. The new officers for the Young People's Missionary Volunteer Society are:- Leader � T Unruh. First Assistant Leader � Pearl Rick. Second Assistant Leader �Della Mabley. Secretary � Harry Casey. Assistant Secretary � Myrtle Fitchett. Organist � Lily Humann. Chorister � Robert Kitto. 1 '2 � WESTERN CANADIAN TIDINGS 1111 rotrrn Tatuthiatt Oibingn issued bi-weekly by the Western Canadian Union Confer- ence of Seventh-Day Adventists, at Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Prier Fifty Cents a Year Entered as second-class matter at the Poet Office of Regina. Saskatchewan, September 17. 1912: at Calgary, Alberta, April 3. 1914. All matters intended for publication should be addressed to Western Canadian Tidings, 502 Seventeenth Avenue West. Calgary, Alberta. F. L, HOMMEL � Editor Western Canadian Union Conference Directory Office Address, 502 Seventeenth Ave. West, Calgary. Alberta. President, H. S. Shaw; Secretary-Treasurer, F. L. Hommel: Field Agent, W. L. Manfull; Auditor and Missionary Sec- retary, F. L. Hommel; Educational and Missionary Volun- teer Secretary, E. D. Dick; Medical Missionary Secretary, F. L. Hommel; Religious Liberty Secretary, H. S. Shaw. Executive Committee: H. S. Shaw, F. L. Hommel. H. Humann, J. G. Walker, E. M. Chapman. A. C. (41 W. L. Manfull, and E. D. Dick. THE BATTLEFORD SCHOOL. The writer recently had the privilege of visiting the site selected by the Saskatchewan conference for for their proposed academy and he was favorably im- pressed with the location, the plan of the buildings and manner in which the enterprise is being fostered. The officers of the conference have determined to follow a cash policy and it is wonderful to see how marvelously God has blessed the builders as they have gone ahead in faith with their plans. As money is needed the breth- ren are, coming forward with their pledges, thus mak- ing it possible for the work to move on steadily. All are anxious to see the institution open free from debt. These hopes will be realized but the believers will need constantly to strengthen the hands of the workers by their means and their prayers. The buildings now being reconstructed were used for a number of years by the Dominion government for legislative work. It was here that the laws for the Northwest Territories were made. About twenty years ago the government turned the buildings over to the Indian department, and were used until about a year ago for the education of the Indians. Besides the main building, which will 'be used for the boys' and girls' dormitory, there is a large residence, formerly occu- pied by the governor of the province, two roomy cot- tages, an excellent root cellar, icehouse, warehouse, laundry, carpenter shop, blacksmith shop, 'barn contain- ing 16 double stalls, machine shed and other buildings. The farm, consisting of 565 acres, is enclosed with wire fencing, is cross-fenced for pastures, and is largely covered with timber. The Battle and North Saskatche- wan rivers run just north of the farm, making a nat- ural boundary line. That portion lying along the river will be excellent for grazing, while the remainder can be used for general farm purposes. God has gone before and prepared these buildings, these lands, the willing hearts to furnish the means with which to build. but there is still something left for us to do. The dormitory must be filled with the great- est asset of our homes, our sons and daughters. These comfortable buildings, these productive lands will mean nothing unless our youth can study within these walls, and hear the voice of God in his great "Out-of-d•por" calling them to service for Him. India, China, Japan, Korea and the home land are calling, calling, calling' for our boys and girls. "Half the world is without the social rights of thanhood, womanhood or clnldhood. Roughly, about half the world today is without educa- tion, and cannot read or write in any language." It is ours to uplift these needy souls, to organize them into working bands, that they in turn may herald the mes- sage for today. Think of the opportunity of the col- porteur, the evangelist and the medical missionary ! Think of the opening before the Christian teacher who can lead these bright and inquiring minds to the truth, under the powerful influence that every teacher of character possesses. If the choice of our life-work is still before us we should face this need; realize the overwhelming opportunity, and ask ourselves if the call is not for us. Here is the greatest summons for men and women in all the world today. Confronted by such conditions, a deepening sense of duty is the guidance of God. May this joyful experience come to many be- fore the end. It is not too early to plan for the next school year. Unless the foundation is laid during the summer we are liable to miss the goal in the fall. The opening day of school should see every room occupied. F. L. H. � 0 � GET READY FOR "ARMAGEDnON" A new book like Crisis for size, binding and price, but entirely fresh matter, and with about eighty new illustrations, has just been issued. Do your neighbors know if Europe's war is Arma- geddon? When it will be? Where it will be fought? The public generally has but a hazy, indefinite knowl- edge of this very important question. Let us take hold heartily and circulate tens of thousands in our union con ference. Single copies sell for 25c. A commission of 40% is given those who buy in large quantities for selling or for free distribution. Send your tract society secretary a good sized order. STUDY AT HOME—The Fireside Correspondence School will show you how. Agents wanted. Send far our "Nut- shell" Calendar. Address C. C. Lewis, Principa:, Tacoma Park, D.C. FOR SALE SANITARIUM COOKING Od1L—The shortening used by Vegetarians. Cheaper and more healthful than butter or compound. NO ANIMAL FAT. 40 lbs., $6.60; 80 lbs., $13.00; bbl., 375 lbs., at 14c. cash with order. By freight from Winnipeg, Man. Address: Cotton Seed Oil Co., P.O. J3ox 1832, Winnipeg, Man. FOR SALE—Eighty acres, six miles from Armstrong, B.C. Half under cultivation; remainder lightly timbered. Ten acres in young orchard. Church school on place. S.D.A. Church near. C.N.R. Company have purchased few acres for prospective railway; their survey is across place. Apply, John Stickle, Armstrong, B.C. FOR SALE-51/4 acres land, small Louse and stable for eight horpes, joining C,N. Railway station grounds at MacDowell, Sask. Price $450.01. Write F. B. Shearer, Carlton, Sask. FARM FOR SALE 160 acres suitable for mixed farming; 12 acres broken; 40 ready to break; balance good grazing and scrub. Plenty wood and water. Log house, 20x30. One mile to church and church-school; 8 to P.O.; 16 S. of Maymont; 28 N.W. Perdue. Must sell to settle estate. $1,400; $500 cash, balance 4 years. A. Y. Farnsworth, Sonningdale, Sask.