I wish that I could command language to
express clearly the importance of the proper management of our
schools. All should feel that our schools are the Lord's instrumentalities,
through which He would make Himself known to man. Everywhere
men and women are needed to act as channels of light. The truth
of God is to be carried to all lands, that men may be enlightened
by it.
As a people having advanced light, we should
devise means by which to develop an army of educated missionaries
to enter the various departments of the work of God. We need
well-disciplined, cultivated young men and women in our schools,
in our sanitariums, in the medical missionary work, in the offices
of publication, in the conferences of different states, and in
the field at large. We need young men and women, who, having
high intellectual culture, are fitted to do the best work for
the Lord. We have done something toward reaching this standard,
but still we are far behind that which the Lord has designed.
As a church, as individuals, if we would stand clear in the judgment
we must make more liberal efforts for the training of our young
people, that they may be better fitted for the various branches
of the great work committed to our hands. As a people who have
great light, we should lay wise plans in order that the ingenious
minds of those who have talent may be strengthened and disciplined
and polished, that the work of Christ may not be hindered by
lack of skillful laborers who will do their work with earnestness
and fidelity.
Some would be content with the thorough
education of a few of the most
promising of our youth; but they all need an education that they
may be fitted for usefulness in this life, qualified for places
of responsibility in both private and public life. There is great
necessity for making plans that there may be a large number of
competent workers, and many should fit themselves as teachers,
that others may be trained and disciplined for the great work
of the future. The church should take in the situation and by
their influence and means seek to bring about this much-desired
end.