A few paragraphs were read by the Chair from the new Year-Book on medical missionary work, defining in a few words what the meaning of Christian Help work signified. Following the remarks of the Chair, Elder Starr spoke in regard to the needs of the Southern field, reading from testimonies recently received, which stated that the work in the South would have to be handled differently from that of any other field. He stated that he had learned by experience that preaching and teaching were of little value, and it seemed to him that the best way to enter this field was by means of Christian Help work.GCB January 1, 1897, page 64.11

The Chair also spoke of the work in this field, and stated that there were already five Christian Help bands operating in the South, and all stated that they had more than they could attend to.GCB January 1, 1897, page 64.12

N. W. Allee stated that as he had been assigned labor in the South, he had been looking up the matter of work there for several days, and from what he had learned, he thought the Christian Help work would be a better means of entering this field than any other kind of work. He also read from a recent testimony which stated that in such places as the Southern field there should be established a sanitarium.GCB January 1, 1897, page 64.13

W. W. Prescott stated that he understood we were studying the gospel, and how we may preach the gospel more fully than we have been doing. He said that he did not think that another complete organization was needed other than the church; the work of the church is to preach the gospel, and as the Christian Help work is the same line of work as that which Christ did while upon earth, it hardly appeared necessary to have another organization.GCB January 1, 1897, page 64.14

Mrs. Henry made a few remarks which were well received, one of the principal points of her talk being that one was usually much more successful in assisting and helping the parents by giving some attention to the children. By laying our hand upon the baby’s head we touch the mother’s heart. Others spoke to the same question.GCB January 1, 1897, page 65.1

E. J. Waggoner spoke of what the church is, giving the correct definition. W. C: White stated that some consideration ought to be given the subject as to organization; referring to the establishment in years past of the tract and missionary work, Sabbath-school work, etc., and that while these lines were all of the church, they were operated separately and reported separately, from that of the regular church, work, and yet all considered them a part of the Lord’s work. S. H. Lane spoke to the same question.GCB January 1, 1897, page 65.2

R. A. Underwood suggested that the missionary work and the Christian Help work be combined.GCB January 1, 1897, page 65.3

I. H. Evans thought it quite important that all secretaries of Christian Help bands be in active touch with the work here in Battle Creek by correspondence with the central office.GCB January 1, 1897, page 65.4

J. E. Jayne related some of his experiences in Christian Help work, which were much appreciated.GCB January 1, 1897, page 65.5

Meeting adjourned on motion to meet Monday, March 18, at 10 A. M., in the Sanitarium chapel. J. H. KELLOGG, Chairman. L. Mc Coy, Secretary.GCB January 1, 1897, page 65.6

FOURTH MEETING

NINETEENTH MEETING OF THE CONFERENCE