The Northern Union evangelistic council was held in Minneapolis during the opening days of the new year. The loyal group of workers gathered from all parts of that northern field were greatly blessed in being thus permitted to study and pray together. It is not the first time that the city of Minneapolis has played an important part in the history of the advent movement. Theological discussion, however, was not a prominent feature on this occasion, but rather the study of methods to carry quickly to every city and country the message of the righteousness of Christ and the imminence of His return.
Elder M. V. Campbell, in counsel with the local presidents, had planned a full agenda, which proved to be both challenging and inspirational. Some excellent presentations were given by workers of evangelistic experience in this union, and we are happy to make these available to the world field. Several appear in this issue, and others will follow in next month's Ministry.
Elder W. G. Turner, Miss Louise Kleuser, and the writer were in attendance from the General Conference, and Elder J. L. Shuler from the Theological Seminary. Elder F. C. Carrier, secretary of the American Temperance Society, and Elder A. W. Peterson, secretary of the M. V. Department, also contributed good help during their limited stay. Elder Shuler carried a strong series of studies on the technique of bringing people to decisions ; Miss Kleuser rendered a great service to the group of Bible instructors ; others stressed the importance of personal development in the great cause of evangelism. All who spoke emphasized the need of a baptism of the Holy Spirit as God's provision for the finishing of His work in this generation.
Brother Ferren, representing the Bureau of Publicity, did excellent work. His articles and pictures, appearing daily in the papers, gave an excellent survey of our work and also helped to emphasize to the evangelists the value of the columns of the newspaper as a medium for conveying the message in these days.
We are confident that such a council can mean much in building up the strength of the evangelistic forces in a union conference, and that in coming days whatever expense was incurred will be more than justified by the increased efficiency of the workers. It was a privilege to mingle with this earnest body of men and women and study with them their problems at close range. We are confident that as they returned to their field of service, knowing that God had met with them, the inspiration of this excellent counsel will carry over into a more fruitful service.
