Who are the sponsors of the yellow sheets from the "E. W. Society of America,"-sent out by mail to our churches from McGregor, Texas, offering a booklet of "Latest Food Recipes and the Latest Guide to Health"? What is the meaning of "E. W.," and has this any connection with the Shepherd's Rod movement at Waco, Texas?
Many have asked the same questions, for this advertising has been sent to our people far and wide, including those living overseas, even nationals in mission lands. In many cases sheaf s of coupons have evidently been sent for distribution. Some who have endeavored to learn the identity of this "Society" by direct inquiry have been unsuccessful.
The booklet offered, which is rather strange and fantastic and certainly not scientific in some of its statements, is published by the "Entering Wedge Publishing Company," of which Victor Houteff is manager. Mr. Houteff is the leader of the Shepherd's Rod organization, a small off-shoot of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which originated in Southern California about fifteen years ago.
"The E. W. Society of America" has no office in McGregor, Texas, but Mr. Houteff himself makes the trip from "Mt. Carmel" to McGregor three times a week to get the "Society" mail. The purpose in having the McGregor address is obvious.
While the Shepherd's Rod may have a burden to instruct our people regarding health, it is quite clear that this promotion is primarily a part of the "name ingathering campaign" which is carried on by this organization, with the objective of getting its "message" before our people through the mails. With these facts before them, our loyal people will surely not wish to use or distribute these coupons.
*Whatever comes within the scope of ministerial responsibility in the field is of obvious concern to this journal, which is the workers' own intimate paper. To fail to point out danger or deception, when it is abroad, would Be to prove recreant to our duty. We therefore sought a competent statement that would give the facts regarding the "E.W.", campaign. Fuller information concerning this deceptive ruse and the Shepherd's Rod methods is being sent to ministers and conference officials. If you have not received a copy of this statement or if you wish more copies, apply to your conference office. We are charged with the responsibility of protecting the fiock.—EDITOR.
