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December 15thZION'S WATCH TOWER and Herald of Christ's Presence
ROCK OF AGES
Other foundation can
no man lay
A RANSOM FOR ALL
"Watchman, What of the Night?" "The Morning Cometh, and a Night also!" Isaiah 21:11
VOL. XXXVII DECEMBER 1 No. 23 A. D. 1916--A.M. 6045 CONTENTS
Portrait of Pastor Russell 355 His Biography 356 His Teachings 356 His Work 357 Will and Testament of Charles Taze Russell 358 An Editorial Committee of Five 358 His Legacy of Love 359 The Funeral Services 359 The Floral Display 359 Address at Morning Service 360 Addresses at Afternoon Service 360 Pastor Russell's Last Days 360 View of Floral Designs on Temple Rostrum 369 Oration at Evening Service 373 Pastor Russell's Sermon 374 "Morning Cometh--A Night Also" 374 Closing Scenes in New York and Pittsburgh 378 Letters Expressing Sympathy and Loyalty 378 Confidence in Lord's Arrangement 380 "All the Way My Savior Leads Me" 384
“I will stand upon my watch, and set my foot upon the Tower, and will watch to see what He shall say unto me, and what answer I shall make to them that oppose me.” Hab. 2:1
Upon the earth distress of nations with perplexity: the sea and the waves (the restless, discontented) roaring: men's hearts failing them for fear and for looking forward to the things coming upon the earth (society): for the powers of the heavens (ecclestiasticism) shall be shaken. . . .When ye see these things come to pass, then know that the Kingdom of God is nigh at hand. Look up, lift up your heads, rejoice, for your redemption draweth nigh. -- Luke 21:25-28, 32.
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THIS JOURNAL AND ITS SACRED MISSION
THIS Journal is one of the prime factors or instruments in the system of Bible Instruction, or "Seminary Extension," now being presented in all parts of the civilized world by the WATCH TOWER BIBLE & TRACT SOCIETY, chartered A.D. 1881, "For the Promotion of Christian Knowledge." It not only serves as a class room where Bible Students may meet in the study of the divine Word, but also as a channel of communication through which they may be reached with announcements of the Society's Conventions and of the coming of its traveling representatives styled "Pilgrims," and refreshed with reports of its Conventions.Our "Berean Lessons" are topical rehearsals or reviews of our Society's published "Studies," most entertainingly arranged, and very helpful to all who would merit the only honorary degree which the Society accords, viz., Verbi Dei Minister (V.D.M.), which translated into English is, Minister of the Divine Word. Our treatment of the International S.S. Lessons is specially for the older Bible Students and Teachers. By some this feature is considered indispensable.
This Journal stands firmly for the defence of the only true foundation of the Christian's hope now being so generally repudiated,--Redemption through the precious blood of "the man Christ Jesus who gave himself a ransom [a corresponding price, a substitute] for all." (I Pet. 1:19; I Tim. 2:6.) Building up on this sure foundation the gold, silver and precious stones (I Cor. 3:11-15; 2 Pet. 1:5-11) of the Word of God, its further mission is to--"Make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery which...has been hid in God,...to the intent that now might be made known by the Church the manifold wisdom of God"--"which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men as it is now revealed."--Eph. 3:5-9,10.
It stands free from all parties, sects and creeds of men, while it seeks more and more to bring its every utterance into fullest subjection to the will of God in Christ, as expressed in the Holy Scriptures. It is thus free to declare boldly whatsoever the Lord hath spoken;--according to the divine wisdom granted unto us, to understand. Its attitude is not dogmatical, but confident; for we know whereof we affirm, treading with implicit faith upon the sure promises of God. It is held as a trust, to be used only in his service; hence our decisions relative to what may and what may not appear in its columns must be according to our judgment of his good pleasure, the teaching of his Word, for the upbuilding of his people in grace and knowledge. And we not only invite but urge our readers to prove all its utterances by the infallible Word to which reference is constantly made, to facilitate such testing.
TO US THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY TEACH
That the Church is "the Temple of the Living God"--peculiarly "His workmanship;" that its construction has been in progress throughout the Gospel age--ever since Christ became the world's Redeemer and the chief corner stone of this Temple, through which, when finished, God's blessings shall come "to all people," and they find access to him.--1 Cor. 3:16,17; Eph. 2:20-22; Gen. 28:14; Gal. 3:29. That meantime the chiseling, shaping and polishing, of consecrated believers in Christ's atonement for sin, progresses; and when the last of these "living stones," "elect and precious," shall have been made ready, the great Master Workman will bring all together in the First Resurrection; and the Temple shall be filled with his glory, and be the meeting place between God and men throughout the Millennium.--Rev. 15:5-8. That the Basis of Hope, for the Church and the World, lies in the fact that "Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for man," "a ransom for all," and will be "the true light which lighteth "in due time."--Heb. 2:9; John 1:9; 1 Tim. 2:5,6. That the Hope of the Church is that she may be like her Lord, "see him as he is," be "partaker of the divine nature," and share his glory as his joint-heir.--1 John 3:2; John 17:24; Rom. 8:17; 2 Pet. 1:4. That the present mission of the Church is the perfecting of the saints for the future work of service; to develop in herself every grace; to be God's witness to the world; and to prepare to be the kings and priests of the next age.--Eph. 4:12; Matt. 24:14; Rev. 1:6; 20:6. That the hope for the World lies in the blessings of knowledge and opportunity to be brought to by Christ's Millennial Kingdom--the restitution of all that was lost in Adam, to all the willing and obedient, at the hands of their Redeemer and his glorified Church.--Acts 3:19-21; Isa. 35.
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BIOGRAPHY
CHARLES TAZE RUSSELL, known the world over as Pastor Russell, author, lecturer and minister of the Gospel, was born at Pittsburgh, Pa., February 16, 1852; died October 31, 1916. He was the son of Joseph L. and Eliza Birney Russell, both of Scotch-Irish lineage. He was educated in the common schools and under private tutors. Author of "OBJECT AND MANNER OF OUR LORD'S RETURN," "FOOD FOR THINKING CHRISTIANS," "TABERNACLE SHADOWS," "THE DIVINE PLAN OF THE AGES," "THE TIME IS AT HAND," "THY KINGDOM COME," "THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON," "THE ATONEMENT," "THE NEW CREATION," "WHAT SAY THE SCRIPTURES ABOUT HELL," "SPIRITISM," "OLD THEOLOGY TRACTS," "THE PHOTO-DRAMA OF CREATION," et cetera, et cetera.He was married in 1879 to Maria Frances Ackley. No children blessed this union. Seventeen years later they disagreed about the management of his journal and a separation followed.
Reared under the influence of Christian parents, at an early age he became interested in theology, uniting himself with the Congregational Church, and became active in local mission work. The doctrine of eternal torment of all mankind except the few elect became so abhorrent to him that at the age of seventeen he was a skeptic. He said, "A God that would use His power to create human beings whom He foreknew and predestinated should be eternally tormented, could be neither wise, just nor loving; His standard would be lower than that of many men." He continued to believe, however, in the existence of God, but was not willing to accept the commonly understood teachings as God's revelation of Himself to man. He turned his attention to the investigation of heathen religions, only to find all of these unsatisfactory.
HIS TEACHINGS Naturally of a reverential mind, desiring to worship and serve the true God, he reasoned, "All the creeds of Christendom claim to be founded on the Bible, and these are conflicting. Is it possible that the Bible has been misrepresented? It may not teach the terrible doctrine of eternal torment." Turning again to the Bible he determined to make a careful, systematic study of it without reference to creeds of men. As a result the remainder of his life was wholly devoted to teaching the Bible, writing and publishing religious books and papers, lecturing and proclaiming the message of Messiah's Kingdom. He was the greatest religious teacher since St. Paul, and did more than any other man of modern times to establish the faith of the people in the Scriptures.
He was not the founder of a new religion, and never made such claim. He revived the great truths taught by Jesus and the Apostles, and turned the light of the twentieth century upon these. He made no claim of a special revelation from God, but held that it was God's due time for the Bible to be understood; and that, being fully consecrated to the Lord and to His service, he was permitted to understand it. Because he devoted himself to the development of the fruits and graces of the Holy Spirit, the promise of the Lord was fulfilled in him: "For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."--2 Peter 1:5-8.
He clearly taught and proved his teachings by the citation of Scriptural authority--that man does not possess an immortal soul, that he is a soul and is mortal; that the wages of sin is death--not eternal torment; that death came upon man as the just penalty for the violation of God's Law; that death means the destruction of man; that God, in His goodness, has provided the great Ransom-price whereby man may be delivered from the bondage of Sin and Death; that God's beloved Son, Jesus, became a man and grew to manhood's estate, was put to death as a man and raised again from the dead a spirit-being, possessing the Divine nature; that by His death and resurrection Christ Jesus provided and produced the Ransom-price for man's deliverance and restoration; that Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man; that every man in God's due time must, therefore, have a fair trial for life, and to this end there shall be a resurrection of all the dead; that Jesus Christ ascended into Heaven and must come the second time; that the period of time elapsing between the First and the Second Coming of the Lord is devoted to the election of the members of the Body of Christ, taken from amongst men; that the requirements for election to that exalted position are, full faith in the shed blood of Jesus as the Ransom-price, a full consecration to do the Father's will, and a faithful continuance in obedience to the Father's will even unto death; that all who thus are consecrated and begotten of the Holy Spirit and are overcomers shall have part in the Chief Resurrection, and be exalted to positions in the Heavenly Kingdom of God and participate with Christ Jesus in His Millennial Reign for the blessing of all the families of the earth; that during the thousand-year reign of Christ all of the dead shall be awakened, and given a fair and impartial trial for life or death; that under said Reign the wilfully disobedient shall be everlastingly destroyed, while those obedient to the righteous rule of Christ shall be fully restored to human perfection of body, mind and character; that during this Millennial Reign the earth shall be brought to a state of Edenic [R5998 : page 357] Paradise and made fit as a place habitable for perfect man; that man, fully restored to perfection, will inhabit the beautiful earth in all the ages to come.
HIS WORK Seeing that God has such a wonderful Plan for the blessing of mankind, Pastor Russell gave all of his power and energy to making known these great truths to the world. He never took a vacation; he worked until the day of his death.
Like other Christians he was looking for the Second Coming of Christ. Between 1872-6 he discovered that the Scriptures clearly teach that the Lord would not return in a body of flesh, but would return as a spirit being, invisible to human eyes, and that His second presence was due in the autumn of 1874. This led to the publishing of a booklet entitled, "The Object and Manner of Our Lord's Return," which had a phenomenal circulation.
Many students of the Bible throughout the United States and Canada responded to the information derived from that book, and his correspondence became voluminous. Realizing the necessity of keeping the Truth before the minds of those who had begun to investigate, in 1879 he began the publication of THE WATCH TOWER AND HERALD OF CHRIST'S PRESENCE, and was its sole Editor to the time of his death. This journal is issued semi-monthly; it never publishes advertisements, but is devoted exclusively to religious topics. Among the English speaking people in the United States, Canada and Great Britain, its semi-monthly circulation is 45,000 copies. It is also published in German, French, Swedish, Dano-Norwegian and Polish, reaching a large number of subscribers in America and Europe.
He was President of the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY from its organization in 1884 until his death. He was also President of the PEOPLES PULPIT ASSOCIATION, organized in 1909, and the INTERNATIONAL BIBLE STUDENTS ASSOCIATION, incorporated in London, in 1913, both of the latter corporations being adjuncts to the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY. Through these religious corporations, as well as by word of mouth, he promulgated the Gospel of Messiah's Kingdom. He was the author of the following publications, issued between the years 1881 and 1914, each having phenomenal circulation, as given below:
FOOD FOR THINKING CHRISTIANS 1,450,000 TABERNACLE SHADOWS 1,000,000 DIVINE PLAN OF THE AGES 4,817,000 THE TIME IS AT HAND 1,657,000 THY KINGDOM COME 1,578,000 BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON 464,000 THE ATONEMENT 445,000 THE NEW CREATION 423,000 WHAT SAY THE SCRIPTURES ABOUT HELL 3,000,000
He was also the author of WHAT SAY THE SCRIPTURES ABOUT SPIRITISM, OLD THEOLOGY TRACTS, et cetera, et cetera. He was the author of the PHOTO-DRAMA OF CREATION, which had been exhibited prior to his death to more than nine million persons. He wrote and published the SCENARIO of the PHOTO-DRAMA OF CREATION, which has had a very wide circulation. His publications were translated into thirty-five different languages. At the same time he was Pastor of more than 1,200 congregations of Bible Students, in different parts of the world. These he visited and taught as often as possible.
He organized and conducted a Lecture Bureau which constantly employed seventy Bible lecturers, who traveled and delivered lectures on the Scriptures. He organized and managed an auxiliary lecture bureau of seven hundred men who gave a portion of their time to lecturing on Bible teachings. Each year he wrote practically all of the copy for the BIBLE STUDENTS MONTHLY, the annual distribution of which amounted to approximately fifty million copies.
His weekly sermons were handled by a newspaper syndicate. More than 2,000 newspapers, with a combined circulation of fifteen million readers, at one time published his discourses. All told, more than 4,000 newspapers published these sermons.
The Continent, a publication whose editor often opposed Pastor Russell, once published the following significant statement concerning him:
"His writings are said to have greater newspaper circulation every week than those of any other living man; a greater, doubtless, than the combined circulation of the writings of all the priests and preachers in North America; greater even than the work of Arthur Brisbane, Norman Hapgood, George Horace Lorimer, Dr. Frank Crane, Frederick Haskins, and a dozen other of the best known editors and syndicate writers put together."
HARVEST WORK Pastor Russell adhered closely to the teachings of the Scriptures. He believed and taught that we are living in the time of the second presence of our Lord, and that His presence dates from 1874; that since that time we have been living in the "time of the end"--the "end of the Age," during which the Lord has been conducting His great Harvest work; that, in harmony with the Lord's own statement, this Harvest work is separating true Christians designated as "wheat," from merely professing Christians, designated as "tares," and gathering the true saints into the Kingdom of the Lord. It is here interesting to note that Jesus said, "Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his Lord hath made ruler over His Household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord, when He cometh, shall find so doing! Verily I say unto you that He shall make him ruler over all His goods." Thousands of the readers of Pastor Russell's writings believe that he filled the office of "that faithful and wise servant," and that his great work was giving to the Household of Faith meat in due season. His modesty and humility precluded him from openly claiming this title, but he admitted as much in private conversation. For a more detailed account of his work, reference is made to THE WATCH TOWER of June 1st, 1916.
In 1910 Pastor Russell visited Palestine and Russia. He there orally delivered lectures to thousands of orthodox Jews on the regathering of Jews to Palestine. In 1911 he was one of a committee of seven who made a journey around the world and especially examined into the conditions of missionary work in Japan, China, Korea and India. On the same occasion he again visited the Jews in Palestine and Galatia, explaining to them that the prophecies teach that the Jews at an early date will again be established in Palestine. On his return to America he was given a great ovation at the New York City Hippodrome by thousands of Jews, his discourse on this occasion being published by Hebrew papers both in America and in Europe.
During the 42 years of Pastor Russell's Christian work he never directly or indirectly solicited money. No collection was ever taken at any meeting addressed by him or by any of his associates. He had faith that the Lord would supply sufficient money to carry on His work; that the work was the Lord's, and not man's. The fact that voluntary contributions were liberally made by many persons throughout the world proved that his conclusions were correct.
He devoted his private fortune entirely to the cause to which he gave his life. He received the nominal sum of $11.00 per month for his personal expenses. He died, leaving no estate whatsoever.
Thus closed the career of a most remarkable man. He was loved most by those who knew him best.
WILL AND TESTAMENT OF CHARLES TAZE RUSSELL Having at various times during past years donated to the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY all of my personal possessions except a small personal bank account of approximately two hundred dollars, in the Exchange National Bank of Pittsburgh, which will properly be paid over to my wife if she survives me, I have merely love and Christian good wishes to leave to all of the dear members of the Bible House Family--and all other dear colaborers in the Harvest work--yea, for all of the household of faith in every place who call upon the name of the Lord Jesus as their Redeemer.
However, in view of the fact that in donating the journal, ZION'S WATCH TOWER, the OLD THEOLOGY QUARTERLY and the copyrights of the MILLENNIAL DAWN SCRIPTURE STUDIES Books and various other booklets, hymn-books, etc., to the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY, I did so with the explicit understanding that I should have full control of all the interests of these publications during my life time, and that after my decease they should be conducted according to my wishes. I now herewith set forth the said wishes--my will respecting the same--as follows:
AN EDITORIAL COMMITTEE OF FIVE I direct that the entire editorial charge of ZION'S WATCH TOWER shall be in the hands of a committee of five brethren, whom I exhort to great carefulness and fidelity to the Truth. All articles appearing in the columns of ZION'S WATCH TOWER shall have the unqualified approval of at least three of the committee of five, and I urge that if any matter approved by three be known or supposed to be contrary to the views of one or both of the other members of the committee, such articles shall be held over for thought, prayer and discussion for three months before being published--that so far as possible the unity of the faith and the bonds of peace may be maintained in the Editorial management of the journal.
The names of the Editorial Committee (with such changes as may from time to time occur) shall all be published in each number of the journal--but it shall not in any manner be indicated by whom the various articles appearing in the journal are written. It will be sufficient that the fact be recognized that the articles are approved by the majority of the committee.
As the Society is already pledged to me that it will publish no other periodicals, it shall also be required that the Editorial Committee shall write for or be connected with no other publications in any manner or degree. My object in these requirements is to safeguard the committee and the journal from any spirit of ambition or pride or headship, and that the Truth may be recognized and appreciated for its own worth, and that the Lord may more particularly be recognized as the Head of the Church and the Fountain of Truth.
Copies of my Sunday discourses published in the daily newspapers covering a period of several years have been preserved and may be used as editorial matter for The WATCH TOWER or not, as the committee may think best, but my name shall not be attached nor any indication whatever given respecting the authorship.
Those named below as members of the Editorial Committee (subject to their acceptance) are supposed by me to be thoroughly loyal to the doctrines of the Scriptures-- especially so to the doctrine of the Ransom--that there is no acceptance with God and no salvation to eternal life except through faith in Christ and obedience to His Word and its spirit. If any of the designated ones shall at any time find themselves out of harmony with this provision they will be violating their consciences and hence committing sin if they continue to remain members of this Editorial Committee-- knowing that so to do would be contrary to the spirit and intention of this provision.
The Editorial Committee is self-perpetuating, in that should one of these members die or resign, it will be the duty of the remainder to elect his successor, that the journal may never have an issue without a full Editorial Committee of five. I enjoin upon the committee named great caution in respect to the election of others to their number--that purity of life, clearness in the Truth, zeal for God, love for the brethren and faithfulness to the Redeemer shall be prominent characteristics of the one elected. In addition to the five named for the committee I have named five others from whom I prefer that selection should be made for any vacancies in the Editorial Committee, before going outside for a general selection--unless in the interim, between the making of this Will and the time of my death, something should occur which would seem to indicate these as less desirable or others more desirable for filling the vacancies mentioned. The names of the Editorial Committee are as follows:
WILLIAM E. PAGE, WILLIAM E. VAN AMBURGH, HENRY CLAY ROCKWELL, E. W. BRENNEISEN, F. H. ROBISON. The names of the five whom I suggest as possibly amongst the most suitable from which to fill vacancies in the Editorial Committee are as follows: A. E. Burgess, Robert Hirsh, Isaac Hoskins, Geo. H. Fisher (Scranton), J. F. Rutherford, Dr. John Edgar.
The following announcement shall appear in each issue of THE WATCH TOWER, followed by the names of the Editorial Committee:
ZION'S WATCH TOWER EDITORIAL COMMITTEE This journal is published under the supervision of an Editorial Committee, at least three of whom must have read and have approved as TRUTH each and every article appearing in these columns. The names of the Committee now serving are: (names to follow.)
As for compensation, I think it wise to maintain the Society's course of the past in respect to salaries--that none be paid; that merely reasonable expenses be allowed to those who serve the Society or its work in any manner. In harmony with the course of the Society, I suggest that the provision for the Editorial Committee, or the three that shall be actively engaged, shall consist of not more than a provision for their food and shelter and ten dollars per month, with such a moderate allowance for wife or children or others dependent upon them for support as the Society's Board of Directors shall consider proper, just, reasonable-- that no provision be made for the laying up of money.
I desire that the OLD THEOLOGY QUARTERLY continue to appear as at present, so far as the opportunities for distribution and the laws of the land will permit, and that its issues shall consist of reprints from the old issues of THE WATCH TOWER or extracts from my discourses, but that no name shall appear in connection with the matter unless the same is required by law.
It is my wish that the same rules apply to the German, the French, the Italian, the Danish and the Swedish or any other foreign publications controlled or supported by the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY.
I will that a copy of this paper be sent to each one whose name has appeared above as of the Editorial Committee or the list from whom others of that committee may be chosen to fill vacancies and also to each member of the Board of Directors of the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY. This shall be done immediately on my death being reported, so that within a week, if possible, the persons named as of the Editorial Committee may be heard from, their communications being addressed to the Vice-President of the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY--whoever may be holding that office at that time. The answers of those appointed shall be to the point, indicating their acceptance or rejection of the provisions and terms specified. A reasonable time shall be allowed for any one mentioned who may be absent from the city or from the country. Meantime the remainder of the committee of at least three shall proceed to act in their capacity as editors. It shall be the duty of the officers of the Society to provide the necessary arrangements for these members of the Editorial Committee and to assist them in their duties in every possible manner, in compliance with the engagements made with me bearing on this matter.
I have already donated to the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY all my voting shares therein, putting the same in the hands of five Trustees, as follows: Sr. E. Louise Hamilton, Sr. Almeta M. Nation Robison, Sr. J. G. Herr, Sr. C. Tomlins, Sr. Alice G. James. [R5999 : page 359]
These Trustees shall serve for life. In event of deaths or resignations successors shall be chosen by the WATCH TOWER SOCIETY Directors and Editorial Committee and the remaining Trustees after prayer for Divine guidance.
I now provide for the impeachment and dismissal from the Editorial Committee of any member thereof found to be unworthy the position by reason of either doctrinal or moral laches, as follows:
At least three of the Board must unite in bringing the impeachment charges, and the Board of Judgment in the matter shall consist of the WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY'S trustees and the five trustees controlling my voting shares and the Editorial Committee, excepting the accused. Of these sixteen members at least thirteen must favor the impeachment and dismissal in order to effect the same. [R6000 : page 359]
DIRECTIONS FOR FUNERAL I desire to be buried in the plot of ground owned by our Society, in the Rosemont United Cemetery, and all the details of arrangements respecting the funeral service I leave in the care of my sister, Mrs. M. M. Land, and her daughters, Alice and May, or such of them as may survive me, with the assistance and advice and cooperation of the brethren, as they may request the same. Instead of an ordinary funeral discourse, I request that they arrange to have a number of the brethren, accustomed to public speaking, make a few remarks each, that the service be very simple and inexpensive and that it be conducted in the Bible House Chapel or any other place that may be considered equally appropriate or more so.
MY LEGACY OF LOVE To the dear "Bethel" family collectively and individually I leave my best wishes, in hoping for them of the Lord His blessing, which maketh rich and addeth no sorrow. The same I extend in a still broader sweep to all the family of the Lord in every place--especially to those rejoicing in the Harvest Truth. I entreat you all that you continue to progress and to grow in grace, in knowledge, and above all in love, the great fruit of the Spirit in its various diversified forms. I exhort to meekness, not only with the world, but with one another; to patience with one another and with all men, to gentleness with all, to brotherly kindness, to godliness, to purity. I remind you that all these things are necessary for us, necessary that we may attain the promised Kingdom, and that the Apostle has assured us that if we do these things we shall never fail, but that "so an entrance shall be ministered unto us abundantly into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
It is my wish that this my last Will and Testament be published in the issue of THE WATCH TOWER following my death.
My hope for myself, as for all the dear Israel of God, is that soon we shall meet to part no more, in the First Resurrection, in the Master's presence, where there is fulness of joy forevermore. We shall be satisfied when we awake in His likeness--
"Changed from glory unto glory."
(Signed) CHARLES TAZE RUSSELL. PUBLISHED AND DECLARED IN THE PRESENCE OF THE WITNESSES
WHOSE NAMES ARE ATTACHED:
MAE F. LAND,
M. ALMETA NATION,
LAURA M. WHITEHOUSE.
DONE AT ALLEGHENY, PA., JUNE TWENTY-NINE, NINETEEN HUNDRED AND SEVEN.
THE FUNERAL SERVICES The remains of Pastor Russell--announcement of whose death was published in the last issue of THE WATCH TOWER--arrived in New York from the West on Friday morning, November 3, accompanied by his traveling secretary, Menta Sturgeon.
When the body reached Chicago, a large number of friends had assembled at the station, and as it was necessary to transfer the casket from one depot to another, a long procession of automobiles bearing the sorrowing friends formed and followed through the city. The casket was opened during the delay here, and many took the last look at him whom they knew so well and loved so much. From Chicago the body was accompanied by a delegation, delegations from other cities joining en route to New York.
The remains reached the Bethel Home on Saturday, where they were viewed by the Family and by members of the Congregation. On Sunday morning they were removed to The Temple and lay in state until 10 o'clock in the evening. Thousands saw them here for the last time.
All day Saturday and Sunday representatives of congregations in many of the cities east of the Mississippi and in Canada arrived on almost every incoming train. The Temple was inadequate to accommodate them all. The lecture room below was opened for the overflow. Every inch of available space was occupied from the basement to and including the second balcony.
Two services had been announced for The Temple-- one to be held in the afternoon for the friends, the other for the public in the evening. But in view of the rapidly increasing numbers, the Committee of Arrangements provided an additional service, to be held on Sunday morning. The speaker was Brother Macmillan, whose remarks will be found elsewhere.
The afternoon service, which had been especially announced for the friends, was opened with a solo, "Be Thou Faithful Unto Death." These words were especially impressive, because one of the most beautiful floral designs surrounding the casket bore a broad white ribbon on which were the words of this beautiful hymn. The other hymns were 23, "Blest be the tie that binds," so frequently used by the classes and by conventions when welcoming Brother Russell in their midst; and No. 273, "Sun of my soul, my Father dear," one of Brother Russell's favorite hymns.
Each speaker, when he had completed his remarks at the side of the casket in the main Auditorium, proceeded to the lecture room below and repeated the same address to the friends crowding the smaller Auditorium. All of the addresses--seventeen in number--appear in this issue of THE WATCH TOWER.
THE FLORAL DISPLAY Elsewhere in THE WATCH TOWER will be found a full-page view of the floral display on the rostrum. It was the finest we have ever seen on such an occasion. The scene surpassed description. The rostrum of The Temple was so completely occupied by plants, ferns, flowers and a most wonderful collection of appropriate floral designs as to leave barely room enough for the speakers and the remains of our beloved Pastor. Moreover, the entire facing of every balcony and box was artistically decorated with a great variety of ferns and flowers.
At the foot of the casket was placed a broken pillar of flowers, fittingly representing that dear body which, like the Lord's body, had been broken in the service of the brethren; while at the head was a magnificent floral cross and crown, the cross symbolizing his share in the death of Christ, and the crown symbolizing the Crown of Glory, which we believe he now wears with our dear Lord in Heaven.
The rostrum was not large enough to contain all the floral designs, nor was there space available in the interior of The Temple to display all the floral contributions. But however beautiful and numerous all these were, they [R6000 : page 360] but very imperfectly represented the degree of love and esteem in which our departed Pastor was held by all who knew him well.
The Committee of Arrangements were of course desirous of following Brother Russell's suggestion in his Will, and to this end requested several brethren to speak at the services. Among these were A.H. MacMillan, Menta Sturgeon, W.E. Van Amburgh, P.S.L. Johnson, E.W.V. Kuehn, Toledo, O.; C.A. Wise, Indianapolis, Ind.; J.T.D. Pyles, Washington, D.C.; I.I. Margeson, Boston, Mass.; F.W. Manton, Toronto, Canada; C.B. Shull, Columbus, Ohio; G.C. Driscoll, Dayton, Ohio; Dr. L.W. Jones, Chicago, Ill.; D. Kihlgren, Springfield, Mass.; Dr. A.E. McCosh, Detroit, Mich.; C.J. Woodworth, Scranton, Pa.; George Draper, Wichita, Kansas; C.H. Anderson, Baltimore, Md.; W.L. Abbott, St. Paul, Minn.; and J.D. Ross, Truro, N.S. But to have carried out the program in its entirety would have consumed considerable more time, and as The Temple was so crowded that many were obliged to stand for hours, it was deemed wise to reduce the number of speakers. The addresses of those at the three services follow in regular order:
ADDRESS AT MORNING SERVICE BY A. H. MACMILLAN--NEW YORK
I am satisfied that I am expressing the sentiments of all present when I say that if the English language contains words capable of describing our feelings at the present time, we have not learned them yet. We are happy and sad, confused and perplexed; yet the way is clear--and we are glad! Death invariably causes a gloom wherever its clammy hand appears; yet, as the Apostle Paul expresses it, "We sorrow not as those that have no hope." Our glorious hope buoys us up in this trial hour, and we are happy because we know our Beloved Pastor is even now with the Lord. Numerous questions crowd themselves into our minds: We wonder if the work will continue in the future as it has in the past; whether the waters of Jordan will be "smitten"; who will write the Seventh Volume; to whom shall we go with our perplexing trials and difficulties as individuals and as ecclesias? It is my purpose to attempt to answer briefly some of these questions by relating to you the arrangements made by our dear Pastor before his death.
Following the Newport Convention in July, Brother Russell had a serious sick spell, during which illness he called me to the Study and spent three and a half hours outlining the work that he felt was yet to be done, and endeavoring to make plans to carry it on. He asked me then if I would [R6001 : page 360] like to come back to Brooklyn and help in the work of the Home and Tabernacle. I gave him my reply later, offering my services to do what I could to help him and the other friends there. He told me at that time that he realized his strength was rapidly ebbing away and that he would not be with us much longer.
From that time on it seemed to be Brother Russell's purpose to place much more responsibility on the heads of the various departments in the Tabernacle and Bethel work. Just before he departed upon his last trip he did something he was never known to do before; viz., to write letters to the different friends in charge of the various departments of the work, outlining their duties to them. Upon his departure he asked me to ride with him in the taxi to the depot. On this ride he affectionately placed his hand on my knee and said, "What do you think of those letters I have written?" I replied that I considered superhuman wisdom directed him in writing them and that to my understanding the organization for the work here was complete. He said, "I am glad, Brother; for no one can work without an organization. Now that you have my plans before you, proceed and do your best." Later on he wrote a letter home numbering the tables in the dining room, and designating who would serve at the head of each table. Thus you see that everything that he thought could be done to organize matters, to the end that they might run smoothly, was done.
Respecting the continuance of THE WATCH TOWER: An Editorial Staff of five brethren has been appointed, and sufficient matter prepared to last for an indefinite period, so that we can continue to read the Lord's message through our Pastor as published in THE WATCH TOWER, even though he is not present with us in the flesh. It appears clear now that the Lord left our Beloved Pastor with us to the end that he might, as did St. Paul in his day, "bear the Church in birth until Christ would be formed" in us; and now that we should be able to stand without an earthly leader, the Lord has removed the faithful one He placed over us.
The work before us is great, but the Lord will give us the necessary grace and strength to perform it. The Prophet Zechariah clearly indicated this course when he said that the Lord would smite the man that was His fellow, even as He smote the Shepherd. As Jesus quoted a portion of this text and applied it to His own experiences, we believe the remainder of the text is being fulfilled now. When Jesus, the Shepherd, was smitten, the sheep were scattered abroad and were rent, torn and greatly perplexed until they were gathered at Pentecost and endued with power to go on with the work. We notice in this connection, however, that following the smiting of the Lord's "fellow," there would be no scattering of the sheep, but the reverse--the "Hand" or power of the great Jehovah God would rest upon the little ones left over.--Zech. 13:7.
And now, dear friends, what are we to think about this matter? The Lord has taken away our earthly leader; and some faint-hearted workers may think the time has come to lay down our harvesting instruments and wait until the Lord calls us home. This is not the time for slackers to be heard. This is a time for action--more determined action than ever before! Let us, by God's grace, resolve that we will take up the work where our Beloved Pastor left it, and with determined purpose keep high aloft the banner of Truth, until the waters of Jordan have been smitten and divided asunder, and the last member of the Elijah class has been taken to Heavenly glory. May the Lord help us all as we endeavor to serve Him!
ADDRESSES AT AFTERNOON SERVICE
PASTOR RUSSELL'S LAST DAYS--BY MENTA STURGEON--NEW YORK On Monday afternoon, October 16th, at five o'clock, Brother Russell left the Bethel Home for the last time. At the noon hour he informed the dearest family (to him) on earth that he expected to be absent from them for a short time, and expressed for them the hope that during his absence they might be happy and prosperous under the blessings of the Lord. He also said that he expected that he and the one accompanying him would enjoy themselves in the Lord's service. Then, while he and the family stood at their places, he offered a solemn prayer, beginning with the words:
"O Lord, Thy promised grace impart,and quietly withdrew to his Study. There he dictated nine letters, giving instructions to various ones respecting their duties. At the appointed hour he went forth, never more to return, saying "goodby" to the friends in the hall as he passed out and started for the station.
And fill each consecrated heart!"
When the Lehigh Valley train pulled out of Jersey City at six o'clock p. m., it carried away our precious Brother on his last pilgrim journey, which was to end in Heaven. Having held public meetings at Providence and Fall River the day previous, he was tired to start with, and consequently did not dictate on the train that evening, as was his custom. In fact, he retired earlier than usual, saying "Good-night" as he did so. In the morning, in answer to the question as to how he rested, he gave his usual answer [R6001 : page 361] during his recent trips, "On both sides," meaning, of course, that he changed sides frequently during the night.
He often told us of late that he scarcely slept at all, was awake every hour of the night, and thought pretty much day and night. He had the care of all the churches upon his heart, and his physical ailments would not permit much rest. He always ate sparingly, and would carefully note the effect of everything he ate or drank. Frequently would he divide his portion with his companion, in order to economize. It was his invariable custom to return thanks before all meals, whether in hotels, on trains, or where not. He had a beautiful way of making the one who traveled with him feel at ease, and not consider himself merely as a servant, by handing him enough money at the beginning of the journey to cover all his incidental expenses during the trip. He would then arrange that we pay each other's expenses alternately; he paying all expenses for both one day, and his companion paying all expenses for both the next day, and so on during the entire trip.
On Tuesday morning we passed over the line into Canada; and he wittily inquired, "Did you not feel the bridge bulge in the center as we crossed over?" Respecting Canada he said, "They will not molest us so long as we are just passing through; and as to visiting Canada, I have no desire to do so if they do not want me." On two previous occasions he had had severe trials in Hamilton, Ontario; but on this occasion he did not even recognize Hamilton as we passed through. We changed trains, and also our watches, at London; and ere long made our first stop, Detroit, on Tuesday afternoon. It was at this point that Brother Russell's trials began; and they grew steadily deeper and severer until the end of the way. He was physically weak and weary, yet listened patiently to a brother's grievances as he recited them, and then did what he could to reconcile two brethren. The chauffeur took us to the wrong place and consumed valuable time. Our street car connections were poorly made. A matter of the greatest importance in connection with the Harvest work fell flat. He was much disappointed and perplexed.
DIFFICULTIES ON THE WAY Aboard the Pere Marquette en route for Lansing, Mich., he remarked, "We did not expect that we would be traveling together to Lansing when first we met"; and the listener was surprised to find that he well remembered our first meeting together years ago, in Allegheny. This was his way of showing his interest in and love for the one whom he had taken with him from Bethel to accompany him on this last journey. The public meeting at Lansing was well attended; but, for some reason, the interest waned and many left; so much so, that Brother Russell spoke of it afterwards, and seemed puzzled. At the railroad station he conversed with a dear brother on business matters until midnight, when he remarked that he would have to retire.
The next morning, Wednesday, at seven o'clock we expected to be in Chicago, but found ourselves instead side-tracked at Kalamazoo, without any reliable information as to what to expect. The wreckage of a freight train during the night had caused the delay, we were informed, and a detour of fifty miles would be necessary to enable us to reach our destination. There was no dining car on the train, and neither could we secure anything to eat on account of uncertainties. It was at this point that a box of peanut butter sandwiches, which had been given to us by a thoughtful friend in Brooklyn, came in just right. It made our breakfast, and afterwards our lunch. Reaching Chicago some six and a half hours late, we found that we had missed our connections for Springfield and would consequently be unable to make the appointment for that place, even though we figured every possible way. It was at Chicago that his physical endurance was taxed to the limit. Circumstances made it necessary for us to walk several miles, until the writer was growing weary and was sure that Brother Russell must be worn out also, although no remarks of the kind passed between us. All of this occurred after a few hours' rest during the previous night and with but little to eat.
It was in the Union Station at Chicago, while making preparations for leaving on the Wednesday evening train [R6002 : page 361] for Kansas City via Springfield, that a lady from the South, who had been visiting with her daughter and her son in Chicago for some time, came up to Brother Russell, introduced herself as the daughter of a certain lady who had formerly lived in Allegheny, who was a believer in the Truth, and whose funeral Brother Russell had conducted. She explained that, while she was not "one of us" in the fullest sense, yet she believed, and was especially interested in the PHOTO-DRAMA OF CREATION--so much so that she was writing a book on it, calling it The Golden Age; and she desired to have a copy of the SCENARIO. This SCENARIO was both promised and sent. Brother Russell, as usual, inquired respecting the consecration of herself and daughter, and they expressed themselves as seriously considering the matter.
How many times have I heard him ask people on the trains, in the stations, hotels, everywhere, "Are you consecrated?" He nearly always brought this in. He had many opportunities; for people recognized him everywhere and desired to speak or have a few words with him. People on the train knew him--brakemen, porters, conductors and passengers. In the stations, hotels, on the streets, everywhere, he was recognized. Many a time people came to me on the train and inquired, "Is that not Pastor Russell? and would say, "I knew him by his picture in the paper," or "I heard him lecture at such and such a place." Sometimes they would inquire just after he had walked through the train, "Who is that distinguished gentleman with you?" In this way we were able to send out many First Volumes and other printed matter of the Society.
LOSS OF BROTHER RUSSELL'S VALISE It was toward midnight when we reached Springfield, where tickets would have to be procured. Brother Russell sat up late and intended to stay up until we reached Springfield; but, responding to gentle persuasion, he left the matters to be attended to in my hands, and retired. It was a rainy, cold night; but still there were faithful friends waiting at the station in order to give him his mail and have a few words with him. They were satisfied when we explained the conditions to them, gave the writer Brother Russell's mail and sent much Christian love to him, which he much appreciated. The brother who substituted for Brother Russell at Springfield said that the friends had encountered less objection in preparing for the public lecture than at any previous time; and he attributed this to the good and thorough work done on a previous visit, when Brother Russell spoke at the State Fair.
At Kansas City on Thursday morning we encountered so many difficulties in purchasing tickets for the West that it became necessary that I make a trip up into the city through the rain, and with such delay that Brother Russell did here what we had never before known him to do; viz., run to catch a train. We are saying these things to show how different this trip was from anything that had ever preceded it, and how his trials increased as he proceeded on his journey. We reached Wichita Thursday afternoon in time for an afternoon meeting; but it, with other work in Wichita, was more or less interfered with by the loss of Brother Russell's valise. The dear brother who took it in charge, in getting his auto ready, placed the valise on the foot-board, and in starting off, forgot to take it in with him, with the result that it fell off somewhere between the station and the place of meeting. This caused the writer to leave off taking notes of the discourse, and go back with the brother in an effort to locate the lost article. We did everything we could, to no avail, and finally inserted a notice in the newspaper offering a reward to anyone who would return the grip.
We remained over the next day in the hope of getting it, and in the meantime made some necessary purchases of articles that Brother Russell would need on the journey. The public meeting was held at night, after which he was quite tired. The next morning he was later than usual in coming from his room; but after breakfast we worked together until noon on some documents and letters that he had previously dictated. It was here that a traveling salesman of fine appearance introduced himself to Brother [R6002 : page 362] Russell as interested in his writings. He proved to be the son of a prominent minister in Allegheny who, at one time, bitterly opposed Brother Russell and the work he was doing. This gentleman's wife was also interested; and we afterwards met her at the public meeting in Dallas, Texas. Having done everything we could to locate the missing valise, we finally gave up the search, and were shortly on the train en route for the Dallas Convention.
EXPERIENCES AT DALLAS As we arrived at Fort Worth at an early hour, it was not convenient for the friends to meet us, and we took the Electric for Dallas. The State Fair at Dallas was in progress, and every hotel was crowded. On account of Brother Russell's physical condition we were obliged to leave the car before reaching Dallas; so that when we came in by foot, after walking some seven blocks through crowded streets, all connections with the brethren were broken. After some difficulty they found us. The hotels were all over-crowded; we were consequently taken to a private rooming house, where several of the brethren attending the Convention were located. There we remained Saturday and Sunday, until our departure for his next appointment.
Brother Russell closed the Dallas Convention with a Love Feast and was much impressed with the earnestness and evident sincerity of the friends there. That night he spoke to the public for two and a half hours, during the course of which talk there was no little confusion on the rear of the stage by the coming and going of a theatrical troupe that was to play in the theater that night. One of the members of this troop recognized Pastor Russell as the speaker and asked permission to join in the closing song. He had a strong, mellow voice, and joined heartily in singing, "All hail the power of Jesus' name!" After a little rest at the nearest hotel, several of us walked to the station, and there had to work our way slowly through the jam as best we could, it taking us fully a half-hour to reach our train after arriving at the station. Boarding the train at Dallas that night, October 22d, Brother Russell was tired, and his head was aching. Some medicine was taken, and he retired.
Upon arriving in Galveston the next morning, he was not well by any means; but the brethren having arranged for a morning meeting, he consented to speak to the friends at 11:30, following a discourse by Brother Sturgeon. It was at this meeting that he did something we never knew him to do before. He wrote on a piece of paper his text and one verse of a song, and told the friends that he had done so that he might make no mistake. This paper is now before us and reads:
"WHEN YE SEE THESE THINGS begin to come to pass, then lift up your heads and rejoice, knowing that your deliverance draweth nigh."
"Then let our songs abound,
And every tear be dry;
We're traveling through Immanuel's ground,
To fairer prospects nigh."
BROTHER RUSSELL'S LAST MEAL This discourse was taken down, and will be printed in due time. The last letters Brother Russell dictated were just before going to this meeting. After it was over the brethren gave him a drive down the Sea Wall Boulevard; and he seemed to enjoy the balmy sea breeze and the beautiful, rolling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. During the little outing on the Boulevard, a dear brother laid before Brother Russell his troubles and received advice. There were nine brethren who took dinner with us that day at the Hotel Galvez; and he answered their questions, and seemed to enjoy the fellowship and the meal. This proved to be the last meal that Brother Russell ate. Hereafter it was to be a little fruit juice, a swallow or two of a soft-boiled egg, or something like that.
We were presently off for the public meeting in Galveston, which was held in a capacious, beautiful auditorium; but, it being Monday afternoon, not more than 500 were present. However, he had to work just as hard, and even harder, and was very tired at the close. Going by auto to the Post Office and then to the train, the friends were there to talk and ask questions until time for leaving, he, in the meantime, eating nothing. At 7:45 we were at Houston, and there were eager, earnest friends waiting for him, who accompanied him to a well-filled auditorium containing some 1,200 people, to whom he spoke for about two and a half hours, making a total of six hours talking on Monday, Oct. 23d. Was he tired? Was he worn and weary?
Traveling all night then and reaching the home of Sister Frost Tuesday morning, it was not surprising to find him in much physical pain. His labors were telling on him more than ever. His overworked body began to break at its weakest point. Cystitis was becoming acute. We secured various things for him that morning--in fact, everything he wished, and he seemed to know exactly what to get and do. He worked faithfully on his case all morning; and although we had gone to see a doctor who was somewhat interested in the Truth and who would gladly have called to see him, yet it was not his wish. He appreciated the kind offer, but indicated that he would not need a physician's services. He had himself the best knowledge of the case to be had, was most skilful in its treatment, and had a servant at hand who would do readily and gladly anything he desired. This was all he wished. The choicest of fruit was placed just outside his door, but he did not touch it. [R6003 : page 362]
Conditions were getting serious. Brother Russell signed a few letters we had written, gave us to understand that we were doing a more important work than we realized and then had us substitute for him at the 11 o'clock meeting at the Hall. Sister Frost generously placed her auto at our disposal, so that we could easily and quickly go to and fro. He went to dinner with us, talked pleasantly to everyone, and was as humorous as usual; but he ate nothing, although the dinner was excellent. After the meal we went upstairs together arm in arm to his room; and after talking for awhile, he asked us to take the consecration service at the Hall at 3 o'clock. This we did and returned immediately to his room.
I then went to every telegraph office in town in search for a telegram which he felt sure would be here from Chicago, since we had not received it at Dallas. His valise had, however, been received at Dallas. A little girl, having found it in Wichita, had held it until she learned what to do with it, through the notice we had inserted in the newspaper. She received her reward, and was glad. Brother Russell was disappointed again and again at not receiving certain telegrams. Returning, we remained close to him the rest of the day, and in fact, was very close to him for the next week. One week thence he would be in glory.
HIS LAST PUBLIC DISCOURSE The night was drawing on. I was seated on the low window sill close by his side, my hands rested upon his knee and my face was turned up toward his. Love like electricity was flowing from face to face and heart to heart. We talked in whispered tones; and he said during the quiet, lovely conversation, "Dear brother, please remain close tonight and be ready to pick up the thread of thought where I drop it." All this seemed very unusual, and yet was spoken in such a way as not to be disquieting. His companion was being deeply impressed, and watched his face, eyes and words as with an under-sight. He was meditative. He was responsive without saying a word.
The evening lecture was given in the largest and best theater in San Antonio. It is indeed a beautiful structure. The dress circle below and the three balconies above were filled with earnest, intelligent faces. We have never seen a meeting more beautiful. The lecture on the subject of "The World on Fire" was begun under the most favorable conditions. You can picture it at your best, and you will not miss it far.
When all was in readiness at 8:10, Brother Russell stepped to the front of the platform and began his last public discourse. The scene was most beautiful and impressive. I was seated at his right, behind the screen, and could see every motion he made. All went well for about forty-five minutes, when I thought I could see that he was going to leave the platform. Without any sign of suffering, with perfect self-poise, quietly did he walk off the rostrum, while I endeavored [R6003 : page 363] to walk on just as orderly and quietly, and, without a word of explanation, "picked up the thread where he had dropped it." I continued for about five minutes, when he returned, at which time it became my privilege to retire as quietly as did he, and resume my seat behind the curtain. My eyes were riveted upon him for another half hour, when he left again and I came on, endeavoring to clinch what he had taught them by the use of Elijah as a type.
He returned the second time, after an absence of seven minutes, and proceeded with his discourse. He was telling the audience about the formation of the first creed at Nicaea, by the Bishops under the direction of the Roman Emperor Constantine, when he left again. The thread of history was easily gathered up and carried forward for about ten minutes, when the thought began to run through my mind, "I wonder if he wishes me to close the discourse?" Then in our dear teacher came, just in time to bring the whole discourse to a fitting close. It was a wonderful climax to all his public lectures. He seemed to me to stand in a halo of glory. Leading the great audience in singing, "All hail the power of Jesus' name," he prayed most impressively, and found me waiting for him as he came from the platform. He sat in the chair which I had been using; and while resting, a friend took several kodak pictures of him. They being the last, we hope they may be the best.
EN ROUTE TO CALIFORNIA We were escorted to the train by the one who had entertained us in her home and supplied our every need, of whom it may be truly said, "She hath done what she could." She said that she was glad to break the alabaster box, and handed me money enough to secure a Pullman drawing-room from San Antonio to our western destination. Brother Russell at first refused this, thinking it was too much, but was afterwards induced to accept the kind offer, and well he did; for that night he was up thirty-six times in seven hours!
It was just after leaving San Antonio that I had the privilege and pleasure of untying and removing his shoes for the first time. Hitherto he would not permit this, although I had several times made the offer; but now he acquiesced readily, and said, in his gracious manner, "Thank you!" The next morning he was a sick man, although he was not ready to admit it. He kept to his bed all day Wednesday. While he lay there in his berth, I took a seat on the couch, near him. I watched every move he made, stroked his head, and thought what a stupendous amount of work that brain had done! Taking his soft, gentle right hand and letting it rest in the palm of my left hand, I gently stroked it with my right; and thinking of his lecture at San Antonio the previous night and of the many times I had seen him use that hand so graciously when exposing the errors of the creeds of men as contrasted with the Word of God, I said to him, "That is the greatest creed-smashing hand I ever saw!" He replied that he did not think it would smash any more creeds.
This led me to inquire, "Who will smite the River Jordan?" To this he responded, "Some one else can do that." "But how about the payment of the penny?" I asked. He hesitated for a moment and said, "I don't know." Brother Russell was evidently perplexed. We then talked about his physical condition. What he said about his sufferings was this: "I always thought I should have some severe sufferings before I finished my course, but thought when I had the trouble in Pittsburgh, that was it. But if the Lord wants to add this also, it is all right."
During the course of this conversation he said, "What shall we do?" Prayerfully considering the matter, I said, "Well, Brother Russell, you seem to know your case better than anyone else could know, and you have thought of everything that can be done. Have I done everything that you can think of that I ought to do?" His answer will never be forgotten. His words were laden with comfort ocean-deep, when in a still, small voice he said, "Yes, you have; I do not know what I would do without you."
Every move he made and every word he uttered only made me think the deeper, and yet I could hardly think of Brother Russell's life coming to a close. My thought was his thought, and the thought of all the friends, that he would probably be here until the last, and would be translated after the work is over. Having this in mind, I answered his question by saying, "Since we have done everything we know, and you are getting weaker all the time--your vitality is being drained while you are eating nothing to replenish it--I think that if we return to Brooklyn, you will find something there that will put you on your feet again." His reply to this suggestion was, "The Lord permitted us to make out this route." From this I inferred that he meant: The route that we had laid out, and according to which our whole schedule had been arranged, represented the will of the Lord for us; and we must therefore do our utmost in carrying it out. The writer's original thought about this route was, that after Brother Russell had had such a heavy, strenuous summer season on account of the many Conventions attended, it would be better to take the Mallory Line Steamer at New York and go all the way to Galveston by water; but his objection was that it was too round-about and would take too much time.
DETAINED AT DEL RIO We were moving rapidly through southern Texas on the Southern Pacific and were approaching Del Rio when we learned that a bridge ahead of us had been burned during the night and that we would likely be held up for some time. Our train halted at Del Rio; and we found ourselves in the midst of an encampment of border soldiers. The soldiers were marching through the streets, the bands were playing, and much noise was made in every direction. In addition to this, three train loads of troopers were pulled in on the siding near us; and these men, not being permitted to leave the trains, were continually yelling and engaging in all kinds of frivolities and jokes. This continued all through that day and night. Besides, the weather was hot down there. But never one word of complaint did Brother Russell make. He did not even make mention of the soldiers and the noise.
Del Rio being a town of some 10,000 inhabitants, we were able to get a few needful things there. At one time we suggested to Brother Russell that he let us go up into the town--get the leading doctor, and ascertain his idea of what would be the best thing to do in a case similar to his without letting him know for whom we were seeking the information; but this did not appeal to him to be the proper thing. The steward on the dining car knew Brother Russell, came in to see him, showed us many kindnesses, and offered to do anything he could. The diner was three Pullmans ahead [R6004 : page 363] of us. Consequently we had to walk that distance for every little thing needed. After one full day's delay we pulled out of Del Rio on Thursday morning, and were the first ones to pass over the rebuilt bridge.
When our train began to go over the bridge, we hastened in to tell Brother Russell. We reached the drawing-room just as our car had come to the middle of the bridge. Upon our mentioning it to him, he sat up in bed and looked out the window. By that time we were over, whereupon we remarked, "Brother Russell, we have often heard you speak about the time when we shall pass over the river; and now, at last, we are over." A sweet smile came over his face, but he said not a word. We began to think that he might pass over, but surely not very soon. It was October, and it occurred to us that as we were delayed one day before passing over the river in southern Texas, so he might tarry with us one prophetic day and pass over by October, 1917. With these thoughts running through our mind, we were doing our best to serve our dear, patient, uncomplaining, appreciative Brother Russell in every way we could. It was difficult to give him a drink of water without spilling it except we first raised him. There was plenty to do night and day, and we esteemed it a great privilege. We often thought to be all the more faithful because of the dear friends at home.
On Friday night, when we reached a junction point in California where we had to change trains, Brother Russell arose and dressed as usual, although, of course, he was [R6004 : page 364] very weak. This is just what we thought he would do when it came time for his next meeting; for he had often done so before. All day Saturday, under severe pain, in great weakness, with obstructions piling up before him every moment, he struggled with business propositions like a giant. We have never seen or heard of anything to equal his heroism. Friends had disappointed him, and he wondered if the Lord were not against him in some things. His trials thickened and deepened. Not a murmur or complaint did he utter. He had promised the Lord that he would not, and he kept his promise. He was so great that I nearly always hesitated about drawing near to him.
ON TO LOS ANGELES Our train was an hour or more late in arriving in Los Angeles on Sunday morning, October 29th, and we had had nothing to eat. The brethren were rejoiced to see us, but their countenances changed when they saw our dear Brother Russell. They saw that he was weak, but they knew not how sick he was. Besides, he would not yet admit that he was really sick. By ten o'clock we had reached the hotel, and I asked him if I could not get him something to eat. He said he was not hungry and asked me to suggest something. This I did. He consented to my getting something, but only tasted a little of it. Upon bringing it to him, he asked if I had had my breakfast; and when I answered, no, he wanted to know why. I told him that it was because I wanted him to have his first. He said he would not eat his until I had first had my breakfast.
This was just like Brother Russell. He was always so considerate of others. Whenever he would ask me to do anything for him, he would say "Please"; and when it was done he would invariably say, "Thank you." He was a wonder! Brother Homer Lee did what he could for Brother Russell while we were there and, upon our departure, gave me his best remedies, and hoped they would do him good. The brethren in Los Angeles were kind in every way.
BROTHER RUSSELL'S LAST ADDRESS TO THE CHURCH When the time came for the meeting with the friends in the afternoon, Brother Russell arose and made ready to go, the brethren having come for him in their auto. It was 4:30 Sunday afternoon when we left the hotel for the meeting, which was held in the same auditorium in which the Los Angeles Convention was held during the first part of September. It is a quiet and suitable hall. We do not know of any better or more appropriate place in which Brother Russell could have given his last message to the Church. He cautioned the brethren against exposing his physical condition by saying, "Don't give me away, Brethren."
You know that our dear Brother was so considerate of the feelings of others that he never drew much on the sympathy of the friends--so considerate was he, that but few knew that he had been a physical sufferer for thirty years. On one occasion recently he sent word to the Bethel Family that he would not be down to breakfast; and afterwards he told me that it was on account of the family that he did not come--that they had such deep sympathy for him that he did not like to draw on their vitality. He had learned to lean on the Strong Arm alone! He did not need us particularly, but we needed him.
We were on the alert to comply with his every wish; and therefore no one called attention to his condition, and in that sense did not "give him away." However, he gave himself away. To a keen observer his very presence spoke volumes. But more than that, when he stepped to the front of the platform to begin to speak, out of consideration for the splendid audience before him (for every seat was occupied) he said, "I regret that I am not able to speak with force or power," and then beckoned to the Chairman to remove the stand and bring a chair. As he sat down, he said, "Pardon me for sitting down, please." In deep humility, in great suffering and in the most solemn manner, he spoke for about forty-five minutes, and then answered questions for a short period.
Finally he said, "I must say goodby to you all, and give you a text for your remembrance--Numbers 6:24-26: 'The Lord bless thee and keep thee; the Lord make His face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee; the Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.' May the Lord's blessing be with you richly; He has blessed the Los Angeles Class a great deal. Each one should desire to do his own share. No matter what others may do, each one do his share. Now sing Number One:
"'Abide, sweet Spirit, Heavenly Dove,
With light and comfort from Above;
Be Thou our guardian, Thou our Guide,
O'er every thought and step preside.'"
PRESERVE THIS SPIRIT IN YOUR MIDST Continuing, he said, "Isn't this a beautiful thought? Preserve this spirit in your midst. Have perfect confidence in the Lord, and you will be led aright. We were not brought into the Truth by any human catch-word, but by the Word of the Lord. We know that the Lord will bring out everything all right. I bid you all good by." Thus, at 6:05 p. m. Sunday, October 29th, when he left that platform, he had delivered his last address to the Church on this side of the veil, forever. Our hearts are bowed low! We humbly worship God, our Heavenly Father, at the feet of Jesus. We would prefer to keep silent; but for the Church's sake we will proceed:
Several tried to speak to Brother Russell in the auto as we rode away, but they were too late. We were presently at the station; and when we stepped out, we left one behind. It was the privilege of Brother Sherman to be with us at the station and to do us many kindnesses. When Brother Russell signed his name to the railroad ticket at Kansas City, it was his last. It was now our privilege to sign his name for him. We went to the train while Brother Sherman went to the nearest drug store to make a purchase for him. He returned at 6:30 and we said goodby. Santa Fe train No. 10 pulled out; we entered the drawing-room of car Roseisle; and in shutting to and locking the door, we shut him in and shut others out forever. Thenceforth Gethsemane! Victory! Glory!
THE RETURN JOURNEY BEGUN He had me place various articles that he would need during the night in convenient places--under the covers, under his pillows, on the window-sills, so that he could reach them without disturbing me. We did everything just as he directed, were glad to do so, and told him so. He said, "Thank you; I have you do some things because you are so willing." It was my pleasure to be the nurse while he was both physician and patient; and when the patient--how true the name!--no longer needed the services of either the physician or the nurse, the nurse became the undertaker and did those last sad and solemn rites which he had seen others do before. I was careful to inquire, "Is everything all right, Brother Russell?" He assured me that it was, thanked me, asked me to take my rest, indicated how he would call in case he needed me, bade me good night, and turned on his left side with his face toward the window.
We do not know how long it was afterwards when we were aroused from slumber by his knocking and calling us by name--it was probably a couple of hours. But we went to him quickly, did what was required, heard him say again "Thank you," and again lay down. This time, however, we did so with the thought that we would not sleep so soundly. In another hour he knocked and called again; and we were at his side, and soon discovered that another chill was coming on. He had had his first one two nights before. We put five Pullman blankets upon him and tucked them in close on every side; but still he shook. We gave him what was required, and was glad when the rigors ceased. We remained by his side, lying down at times on the couch beside him.
PREPARATIONS FOR DEATH Toward morning he had me make a robe for convenience sake by pinning a sheet inside of a blanket, wrapping him in it like a robe and fastening it under his chin. He stood up on the floor for this purpose, and then lay down on the couch instead of returning to his berth. I therefore sat on his bed while he lay before me. After several hours his robe proved to be rather inconvenient, because the sheet [R6005 : page 365] and blanket could not be kept together. It was then that he stood again and said, "Please make me a Roman toga."
I did not understand what he meant, but did not like to have him repeat, because he was so weak. His voice had become so weak that he had to repeat nearly everything he said. I had said to him at several times, "Dear Brother Russell, I do not like to ask you to repeat anything (It had always been my custom to listen to him so closely in all his dictation as not to require any repetition); but your voice is so weak that one can scarcely hear you." He would always repeat until at last the repetition would do no good, after which he made signs. Finally the signs failed.
I said, "Brother Russell, I do not understand what you mean." He said, "I will show you." He had me take a clean sheet and turn it down twelve inches from the top; and then a second one the same. Placing his left hand on his right shoulder, he said, "Fasten them together here." Having in my pocket a paper of safety-pins which I had recently purchased, it was easy for me to hold the sheets together on his right shoulder and at the same time reach into my pocket and get a safety-pin. The sheets being fastened with the pin, as he had directed, he said, "Now fasten them together on the other shoulder." This I did. There he stood, one sheet extending from his neck to his feet in front and the other in the back, fastened together on his two shoulders, and folded together at the edges. He stood erect before me for a moment without saying a word, then lay down on the couch on his back, closed his eyes, and lay there before me as in a shroud, a perfect picture of death.
I sat on the side of the bed watching him, beholding him, and the thought of death went through my mind. It was difficult for me to get the thought into my head that Brother Russell was going to die. I could not exactly believe it, even now. It all seemed so foreign to what we had expected. However, I know now that the Lord was gradually teaching us both from the time we had left San Antonio until now that Brother Russell's end was drawing on apace. How much Brother Russell may have understood or meant by these movements we may not surely know. They were at least the wisest things that could be done in his case; but to us they mean far more, and we believe that the Lord so arranged. The toga was worn by Roman officials and sometimes by priests, and sometimes symbolized victory and peace, and at other times that the one wearing it had fulfilled his vows. To the writer's mind all these things are meant. He had fulfilled his vows! he had gained the victory! he was at peace! Thenceforth there was laid up for him a Crown of Righteousness, which the Lord would shortly place upon his noble brow.
CONCERNING THE SEVENTH VOLUME With those scenes before me and with thoughts of the end running through my mind, it was only natural for me to say to myself, Had you not better ask Brother Russell concerning some things? It was in this mood and in this connection that we inquired respecting the Seventh Volume, and received his answer, "Some one else can write that." We were satisfied. He had spoken concerning the smiting of the Jordan, the payment of the Penny and the writing of the Seventh Volume; and this was enough. There was nothing left to doubt or fear. We believe that he said everything that he desired to say, and that the Lord gave through him all that He wished the Church to have respecting these great, vital and important matters. Brother Russell seemed to have no desire, neither did there seem to be any need, to say and do a lot of little things at the close of his life that had been left undone. He had finished his course. His labors were o'er. He was ready to be offered.
We were solemnly busy throughout the day (Monday), so much so that we had no time for either dinner or supper. When night drew on, he was in his berth; and I lay down on the couch, with clothes on, to rest awhile. I was just about to sink into sleep when I thought I heard the words, "Brother Sturgeon." As I came to, the experiences of Samuel came into my mind. I leaned over him and said, "Brother Russell, did you call me?" He answered "Yes," and gave me some little thing to do, after which I lay down the second time. Ere long I thought I heard my name called again. I inquired as before, bent over close to him and heard him whisper, "I am trying to find something for you to do." From this I inferred, "Brother Russell wants me to stay awake tonight"; and it proved to be even so.
DEATH DRAWING NEAR I kept doing many little, necessary things in harmony with his words or signs until another chill (the third one) came on. I folded blanket after blanket over him, tucked them in close to him; but still he shook. I therefore lay on him and pressed my face to his until I felt the warmth returning to his body. The fact that this was the third chill in four nights deepened the impression in my mind that the end was drawing near.
About midnight a great change came over him. He no longer cared for any of his medicine, and did not even seem to thirst for water as heretofore. Some things almost ceased. His pain settled deeper in. He could no longer lie straight in bed as formerly. He must sit up; and when he would lie down, he would double together, and his head would rest straight toward the window and free from the pillows. In this posture he would be quiet for awhile until his mouth would fill from his stomach, and he would signal to be raised. Being relieved of this, he would request to be lowered for comfort, until, to prevent strangulation, he would be raised again. This prevented it, and proper attention given, he would lie down again to get relief from pain.
This continued for seven hours with increased frequency and weakness. When he could no longer make his wishes known by words, he would do so by signs. When lying across the bed and desiring to be raised, he would lift his right hand and arm in such a way that my head would fit in the curvature of his arm and he could cling to my neck, while my left arm could fit around his neck, and thus elevate him to a sitting posture. This continued until the thought arose in my mind as to who would become exhausted first. I thought of the friends at home, of the many interested friends everywhere. I looked to the Lord, and steeled myself, saying, "I will stay with him to the finish."
In the early morning he surrendered. He was exhausted; and I could now lay him straight in bed with his head on the pillow in its accustomed place, and he could at last rest. The calm after the storm had come. He was now to die gradually, regularly, peacefully; and I was to stand by watching him, loving him, and expressing my affection for him by gently stroking his hair and his beard and rubbing his head, his face, his hands, and his feet. I did not seem to be able to do enough for him, now that he had passed beyond a certain line.
THE LAST HOURS Several times on Monday I raised him up in bed, sat behind him so as to brace him; and his head would lean against mine. Once he whispered, "Have you anything to suggest?" I had; for I wished him to return direct to Galveston and take the steamer for New York, or else go through by train without stopping at Topeka, Tulsa or Lincoln. He answered, "Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof," by which I understood him to mean that Topeka and other places would take care of themselves when we got to them, and that we need not consider them as yet. It was then that I asked him respecting the Seventh Volume, and afterwards sat meditating what to suggest. After a period of perfect silence I thought I would say something to him about dying and certain matters connected therewith, but I hesitated and hardly knew how to begin. He was sitting up in bed and I put my arm around his neck and said, "Brother Russell, you are a very sick man." His lip quivered; we lowered him, and turned away to weep. I had gone far enough in that direction. I knew not to attempt that again. It was evident that neither he nor I could stand it, and that nothing more could be done.
The most wonderful thing about this most wonderful man was that, during all his sufferings, trials, inconveniences and perplexities, he spoke not a word of complaint; [R6005 : page 366] he heaved not a sigh; he uttered not a moan; he shed not a tear. He had resolved that he would not murmur nor complain, and he kept his resolution to the end. He literally died in doing the Father's will, and thus fulfilled his vow. "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth."
BROTHER RUSSELL'S DEATH We watched by his side all Tuesday morning with but little to do except to watch and pray. Noticing that this was the last day of October, we concluded that he would d before midnight, and consequently wrote out the following telegram to the friends in Brooklyn: "Before October closes our dearly Beloved Brother Russell will be with the Lord in glory. We are alone in Car Roseisle on Santa Fe train No. 10, due in Kansas City 7:35 Wednesday morning, and he is dying like a hero. After embalming will come home with his remains, or else go direct to Pittsburgh." We called in the Pullman conductor and also the porter and said, "We want you to see how a great man of God can die." The sight deeply impressed them, especially the porter. [R6006 : page 366] I called in the regular conductor, and telegraphed for a physician to board the train at Panhandle; and he did. He saw the condition, recognized the correctness of the diagnosis and conclusion, gave me his name, and was off before the train got under headway.
At one o'clock all were dismissed from the room, the door was locked, and we quietly watched over him until he breathed his last. We had observed the approaching signs of death before calling in the trainmen. These continued until the finger nails became discolored, the cold perspiration settled upon that noble forehead, his hands and feet grew cold, his face indicated a break, he drew his feet up in the bed like Jacob of old, his quiet breathing became less frequent, his drooping eyelids opened like the petals of a flower and disclosed those eyes--those wonderful eyes! in all their magnificence --that we will never forget. Presently he breathed no more; we pressed our lips upon his noble brow, and knew that he had gone to be forever with and like the Lord, whom he loved so well.
"Dear Lord, oh, use me as the Angel in Gethsemane! Oh, fill me with Thy Holy Spirit of Divinest love! Oh, make me sympathetic, wise, that every anguished heart May come, nor seek in vain for consolation from Thy Word, And strengthened, comforted, go forth to prison or to death, To suffer patiently the cruel mockings of the tongue; To bear the cross unto the bitter end, and then to calmly say, 'Tis finished,' and with faith unwavering pass beneath 'the veil!'"
ONE OF GOD'S NOBLEMEN BY W. E. VAN AMBURGH--NEW YORK
The pages of history record many of mankind who have left conspicuous footprints upon the sands of time. Some have been great within the boundaries of their local communities. Some have reached out to the national borders. Others have leaped all national bounds and exerted a world-wide influence. Some have gained greatness because of positions of influence; others by their ability to command conquering armies or otherwise sway the destinies of nations; some by noble deeds; others by their ability to inspire their fellowmen to nobler lives and ambitions. Some have been born to great positions; and some have seemingly been forced into greatness by the exigencies of time or conditions; others, inspired by love and zeal for God, have laid down their lives willing sacrifices upon the altar of devotion.
The world is quick to applaud the conquering hero and the prince of finance, but slow to recognize the true worth of the daily smouldering sacrifices of those who heed the Master's admonition, "Be thou faithful unto death." It is left to other generations to enshrine the real heroes; as in the case of our Lord and His disciples; and we believe the same will be true of Pastor Russell. Contemporaries too often misunderstand, misjudge, severely criticize and persecute. How true this has been of all of God's noblemen of the past! But God promises that all such as worship Him in the beauty of holiness in the midst of persecutions shall shine as the sun in the Kingdom of their Father--when their true greatness shall be revealed. How glad we are that God is taking cognizance of all sacrifices of love in His behalf!
Today we are paying our last loving tribute to the memory of one of God's noblest men. His life will speak for itself, when fully understood by succeeding generations.
I desire to add a brief personal testimony. For over twenty years, I was personally acquainted with our beloved Pastor, and for over fifteen years closely associated with him in business and otherwise; so I speak from personal knowledge and close observation. I first learned of him through his writings, and was drawn closer to the Lord by his logical exegesis of the Scriptures. It may seem strange, but 'tis true I scarcely noticed the writer. He was hidden behind the message. Later I became acquainted with him personally, and was closely drawn to him when I perceived the spirit that actuated him--the loving, loyal, consecrated heart, seeking to follow his God, seeking daily to do good unto his fellowmen, to the best of his ability, and seeking to assist them to a clearer perception of the true character of our God.
That he was misunderstood by many of his fellowmen mattered little to him, so long as he kept his heart right with God and had His approval. I never met a man who in my estimation endeavored more earnestly to live close to God, or fought harder to keep his body under. His influence upon others has been written in the hearts and lives of thousands all over the world whom he has assisted to a closer walk with God and a fuller consecration to the Lord and His Word. His SCRIPTURE STUDIES and his other expositions led me to see more of the Wisdom, the Justice, the Love and the Power of God than I had ever recognized before, and helped me to serve Him more intelligently than I had been able to do previously, although since childhood I had earnestly sought to do God's will to the best of my ability. As I saw with increasing clearness the Prize of the High Calling of God in Christ Jesus, I was led to consecrate to my Savior every ability I possessed and to seek further understanding. This consecration was made intelligently to my Lord, and I have ever endeavored to carry it out faithfully.
I would like now, as a further expression of my appreciation, to renew that consecration publicly. There may be others here also who have been assisted to a far better understanding of God's great Plan and His love for mankind through the ministries of our dear Pastor. (Thousands have so indicated.) Would you also like to make this an occasion for renewal of your consecration? My consecration was to no one but the Lord. I recognized our beloved Brother as a servant of God--and a highly honored one. But my consecration was to God. This great world-wide work is not the work of one person. It is far too great for that. It is God's work and it changes not. God has used many servants in the past and He will doubtless use many in the future. Our consecration is not to a man, or to a man's work, but to do the will of God, as He shall reveal it unto us through His Word and providential leadings. God is still at the helm, and His work will continue in harmony with His Plan. Arrangements have been made for the carrying on of this work more earnestly than ever. It will be conducted along the same lines of full loyalty to the Word of God and love for the brethren, and it is for us to determine whether we shall be among its supporters and beneficiaries.
The speaker then asked, "How many would like here to renew their consecration to God, and to indicate it by rising?" Almost the entire audience, which packed the building, rose to their feet. A most impressive moment followed. The speaker's face was raised to Heaven; and silently the audience followed the words:
"Our Father, which art in Heaven, who canst look into the inner recesses of our hearts, Thou who dost not need the expression of our lips, to Thee, at this time, [R6006 : page 367] we desire to renew our Covenant made with Thee by Sacrifice.
"We consecrate afresh to Thee and to Thy service our every ability--our talents, and our opportunities--to be used as Thou in Thy wisdom mayst grant us understanding through Thy Holy Word and Thy daily leadings.
"May we realize more and more the great privilege of being considered by Thee an acceptable sacrifice, through the atoning merit of Thy well-beloved Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
"And may the inspiration of the love of God, which constraineth us, and the Prize of the High Calling of God, in Christ Jesus, spur us to greater devotion to Thy cause and assist us to endure more faithfully than ever before, and to reflect in our every thought, word and deed Thy glorious character!"
PASTOR RUSSELL'S RELATION TO THE PILGRIMS
BY PAUL S. L. JOHNSON--COLUMBUSI am now standing at the bier of one whom, since the days of the Apostle Paul, God has more widely used in His service than He has any other person. I am standing at the bier of one who has been to me a brother and a friend, having done me more good than all other people that have ever come into touch with me. I am standing at the bier of one whom I have loved more than I ever loved any other human being. I am standing at the bier of one of whom I have the assurance of faith that he is now in glory with our adorable Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. One can realize, therefore, how hard it is to control one's feelings under circumstances like these.
I have been asked to speak of the relation of Pastor Russell to the Pilgrims. He had two relations to them-- an official and a personal relation. His official relation to the Pilgrims can be understood when we recognize the office to which the Lord was pleased to call him, i.e., to be the special channel for giving the "meat in due season," as well as for arranging and directing the work of the [R6007 : page 367] Household of Faith. The Pilgrims, therefore, were related to him as fellow-servants of the same God. Therefore as God's representatives, and also in a sense as Brother Russell's representatives, they traveled throughout the world preaching the "Glad Tidings." Just as Moses was given as his colaborers the Seventy to whom God gave the Spirit that he had put upon Moses, because the work was too much for Moses to perform alone, so our Heavenly Father was pleased to give to this devoted servant of His colaborers to assist him in the labor of dispensing meat to the whole Church; for this work was too great for him alone to perform. Therefore the Pilgrims were to bear part of the burden and toil that were his. They, therefore, in a certain sense represent him. In writing to them he at times reminded them that he loved to think and speak of them as being in a certain sense his representatives, though recognizing them primarily as the Lord's representatives.
It was this office, therefore, that gave him a close and directing relation to the Pilgrims. He was eminently fitted by nature, by grace, and by experience to fill the demands of this place. He had a giant intellect with marvelous perceptive faculties, remarkable memory and clear, deep and true reasoning powers, combined with an exceptional knowledge of human nature and with tactful aggressiveness. These gave him great executive ability, which, of course, eminently fitted him to direct the work of the Pilgrims. Our Heavenly Father endowed him with a natural disposition, especially in his religious capacities, that very few of the fallen human race have had. Under careful cultivation of the Holy Spirit these natural capacities were developed in a most remarkable degree into a character that had and combined all the qualities necessary to discharge the duties, responsibilities and privileges of his official relation to the Pilgrims.
His experience as a Pilgrim fitted him all the better to exercise properly and profitably the functions of this part of his office. Therefore his relation to the Pilgrims officially was that of directing their work. It was God's will that he should be the human agent whom God would use to select the Pilgrims. In the selection of these servants no arbitrariness nor partiality was used. His will was fully submitted to the Father's will as to how their selection should be conducted. He subjected the Pilgrims to the three tests demanded by God's Word as proper to be placed upon public servants of God. First of all he required of them that, in addition to a full consecration, they have a large degree of loving zeal, deep humility, exemplary meekness and an accurate knowledge of God's Word. He further required that they have in a large degree the talents necessary for teaching and preaching the Word of God clearly, acceptably and winsomely to responsive hearts. Lastly he required their providential situation to be such as would enable them in harmony with the Word to assume the duties, responsibilities and privileges of the Pilgrim service. When these three things met in an individual, Brother Russell was very glad to arrange for his having a part in the Pilgrim service. His methods in selecting such were quite unique; e.g., unobserved, he listened to a Brother, whom he did not know, explain the chart to several of the friends. The explanation was so clear that he inquired who that Brother was. Finding out his name he entered into correspondence with him, inviting him to enter the Pilgrim service. Those who were to be given the privilege of this office were subjected by him to certain tests that would demonstrate the possession or lack of meekness, humility, zeal, clearness in presenting the Truth, and a large measure of love and self-control.
His instructions to the Pilgrims were very simple. He believed that few instructions were better than many. A Pilgrim, on starting out asked him, "Brother, have you some word of instruction, encouragement or caution to give to me that will prove helpful to me in the service?" He answered, "No; Brother." Then thinking a while he said, "Yes; Brother, I have. Be full of loving zeal and deep humility, and everything will be well." He was wont to say, 'If you are in any difficulty or if you have a problem which you cannot solve, remember you always have an open ear and a willing hand here."
He allowed as much liberty to the Pilgrims as the good of the Cause and themselves warranted. He allowed them to choose their subjects and to use their way of presenting the message, not wishing to interfere with their individuality, believing the Lord was directing with respect to each one. Only such restrictions were made as were necessary for the profit of the Cause and its participants. Whenever correction was necessary it was given in a remarkably sweet form. One of the Pilgrims asked for too frequent vacations, alleging that he needed more time for study. Brother Russell, feeling that the Brother should have had more zeal, suggested that the Brother take a year's time off from the Pilgrim service for study. The Brother, catching the Pastor's meaning, immediately declared, "Brother, that would be a loss of too much time. I will go right on."
He was always on the alert to encourage others; and no Pilgrim left his presence without being encouraged, if he was in an encourageable condition of heart and mind. When correction was needed, it was given with the greatest tact and leniency, allowances being made for good intentions. Whenever he had any changes to make, promotions or demotions in the service, they were made not from personal reasons, but because of the principles in the Heavenly Father's Word. His course was that of completely sinking his will into the Lord's will and of searching to find out what that will was in relation to each Pilgrim, that he might be able the better to help him in the good work. Whenever a dismissal from the work had been arranged for, it was done in the most tactful and quiet way, that others would not need to realize the reason, nor the Pilgrim experience unnecessary pain. The person was in a [R6007 : page 368] very gentle and loving way invited to enter some other field of activity, to the glory of God and his own profit.
His attitude toward the Pilgrim work was one full of encouragement to the Pilgrims. One of his greatest services to them was his example of faithful service. This influenced them in many ways, even in tone and gesture. Undoubtedly the Pilgrims will remember with joy the thought that as his first Harvest work was that of a Pilgrim, so his last Harvest labor was Pilgrim work.
But we are not to think that his official relation to the Pilgrims was all there was in his relation to them. He was not an official simply, nor one that no one could approach. He was a most lovable and considerate person, always inviting confidence. In addition to his official relation he sustained a many-sided personal relation to the Pilgrims. First of all, he was like a faithful father to them. Not having natural children, he was blessed by the Lord in begetting many spiritual children with the Truth; even as the Apostle Paul said he did in the case of many. Brother Russell introduced many people into the Lord's family, and not a few of the Pilgrims were among these. A Pilgrim recently remarked, "I never consciously had a father, until I entered the Pilgrim service and came in direct contact with Brother Russell."
He was not only a father, but also an elder Brother to the Pilgrims, always ready to stand side by side with them. Therefore he was not regarded solely with the feeling that people should have for a father. As elder Brother, he inspired the Pilgrims with confidence in, together with respect for, himself. He was, furthermore, a true friend. He did not whimfully take one up today and drop him tomorrow. He was faithful to his friends with a loyalty based upon the good Word of God. Every Pilgrim recognized that he could depend upon the friendship of this beloved servant. He was an affectionate companion.
Our dear Brother Sturgeon told us a little while ago how he showed his comradeship to the last. He was also a most sympathetic comforter. Any one in distress, especially spiritual distress, seeking comfort, would find in him an attentive ear, a sympathizing heart, a cheering word and an encouraging thought. By nature he was very richly endowed with sympathy and by grace this was more highly developed than the majority of his other qualities. This enabled him to enter into the feelings of so many when they came to him with the things that pressed them sorely. This made him a sympathizing comforter.
Furthermore, this good servant of God was an optimistic well-wisher. He always put the best construction on everything. He gave each one credit for good intentions. His desires and expectations were that these beloved colaborers of his might have a glorious entrance into the blessed Kingdom into which we feel sure that he has entered, who was called by the Lord not only "wise," but also "faithful." He was a cheerful helper. Nothing pleased him more than to serve others. He was continually thinking and planning how he could help by counsel, by example, and by deeds. Every rightly disposed person who came in contact with him was refreshed and encouraged. He was always thinking, not of himself, but of others. That is why his death was so glorious. He had thought that he would probably pass away as a martyr. In many respects his death has been more glorious than a martyr's; for to him was given the privilege not to allow a large measure of his life to be taken from him by violence, but to use up every ounce of his strength in service, for he died in the harness. Such a death was best for him. God will decide what kind of a death is best for each.
[Addressing the remains, the speaker said: O servant of the Lord, in prophetic type God called thee Eldad, beloved [R6008 : page 368] of God. Beloved of God wast thou while in the flesh, art now in the spirit, and to all eternity shalt be. Thou hast been also beloved of God's people, art now and shall forever be. Therefore we name thee Ameldad, Beloved of God's people.]
We can no longer pray for our Brother, as we have, day by day, "God bless our beloved Pastor." But, Beloved, we can pray with respect to him that God bless his memory. He is beyond the need of our prayers; but oh, Beloved, let us not leave a vacancy in our prayers where we were wont to pray, "God bless our beloved Pastor." Let us, in that place, pray "God bless the memory of our beloved Brother Russell." Who among us will join with the speaker in the resolution daily to pray with respect to him, God bless the memory of our beloved Brother? Oh, let the Israel of God everywhere daily pray GOD BLESS HIS MEMORY!
"GOD FIRST--SELF LAST" BY G.C. DRISCOLL--DAYTON No greater honor could come to me than to stand here as the delegate of the Dayton, Ohio, Ecclesia, who have elected our dear Brother annually for many years as their beloved Pastor, whom we recognized as a special servant of God. He was doing a special work at this time, and we certainly learned to love him. For years I have been intimately associated with our dear Pastor as his publicity representative and for the Society. It has been my special privilege to arrange with newspapers in various countries for the publication of his sermons, and also to interview editors throughout the world in respect to his personal work; and, dear friends, as one who knew him intimately, I am glad to be here to say that he was nothing if not a thorough-going, conscientious, sincere Christian, whose greatest endeavor was to serve the Lord, the Truth and the brethren.
I know that he has been assailed many times unjustly; and it was my special privilege often for at least seven years to defend his character. When his sermons were first syndicated, Brother Russell refused to permit his portrait to be used in connection with them. He was very modest in that respect. He felt that he was entitled to the privacy of his own picture; that it should not be paraded before the public. But the newspaper editors, who were glad to get his sermons, could not be ignored; and the demand was uniform that they should have it, that they should be privileged to publish it in connection with his sermon. Brother Russell finally gave his consent; for he came to the conclusion that by the publication of his picture, he would get a wider reading for his Message, the Message of God, the Message regarding the Kingdom. For this reason, and this alone, he gave his consent.
As for the picture, there has been no man in this age to equal our dear Brother. He was an outstanding figure in a crowd. No matter whether he was seated in a train or in a street car or was walking on the street, people would stop and turn around to get a second look. Many a time I have heard people say that he looked like the Lord, if ever a man did. His very appearance widened his influence for the glory of God. As his influence grew, the opposition also grew, and they learned to hate that picture because he stood for something different from what they did. I remember one preacher stating that he could not pick up a paper to read the news without having Pastor Russell stare him in the face.
POSSIBLY MORE THAN IN THE PAST Now, my friends, this was all distasteful to our dear Brother. But the Message of the Kingdom was thus brought before the people, and he had evidences day by day, many times over, that the people were receiving a blessing. In that way he received a blessing also; and the use of his portrait gave the Message of the Love of God wider use in various ways.
Now that this noble face is soon to be covered to be seen no more, we can confidently say, "This mortal has put on immortality." This wonderful character was sown in weakness, but we are sure that it was raised in power. He has served us in many ways. His picture has also served us in many ways in the past; and I am sure if we give the cooperation which we now shall have the opportunity to give, by the Lord's grace, we can still use his personality and his picture possibly more than in the past.
"BLESSED ARE YE WHEN MEN SHALL REVILE YOU"
BY FRANK W. MANTON--TORONTOUnexpectedly I have the honor of representing the Toronto, Ont., Ecclesia here this afternoon in paying the last tribute of esteem to the memory of our Beloved Pastor. Three hundred or more of the Toronto Ecclesia, together with many sympathizers, are rejoicing today in the fact that our Beloved has triumphantly finished his course.
But we have no apologies to make for sadness. We remind you of our Lord, when at Bethany at the tomb of Lazarus; we read that even "Jesus wept."
Under the circumstances you will pardon a personal reference. About nine years ago I was brought into contact with the Truth, and accepted it in a measure, as most of us do at first, reservedly. I was prepared to meet our Beloved Pastor on his first visit to Toronto after my contact with the Truth with some degree of prejudice. We had heard so much about "Brother Russell" that we had considered it in a large measure a form of hero worship; and not being a hero-worshiper, I received him with these thoughts in view.
Being invited to dine with him at the hotel with other friends, I was on the alert to find, if possible, some flaw; but, to my great surprise, I never met a character in every way so beyond reproach.
Immediately after dinner, having to take the car for the public meeting, I endeavored to carry his hand-bag, but he was too quick for me. Before that day was over my prejudice had melted as the hoar frost before the morning sun.
Another incident which impressed me happened some years ago. Sitting at my desk one day, I received a telegram: "Will you serve as Chairman at my Ottawa meeting?" I thought, Now I have found him in a mistake! He had never heard me speak in public, because I had never attempted to do so. I did not reply to the telegram for several days, meantime counseling with my wife.
I overcame my hesitation and wired back, "Yes." After the telegram had gone and the end of the week had come, and it was time for me to go, my wife pointed out that there was something in Brother Russell's telegram that I had overlooked. I tried to ignore that fact, but after the discourse in Ottawa, when our Beloved Pastor was bowing himself off the platform, he lifted his hands and said, "Mr. F.W. Manton, of Toronto, will lecture in the Family Theater here next Sunday afternoon."
Dear friends, I was not an Elder, I had never spoken in public, and I thought, I have him now; he has again made a mistake! I struggled with my feelings during the following week--almost struggled myself out of the Truth. Dear friends, he did not make a mistake in the Lord's sight, I am sure; I am striving to do my best in His service, and if it had not been for our dear Pastor's keen insight, I might never have had this privilege.
The third and most vivid impression was made upon me by our Pastor recently. You were all moved to indignation, no doubt, when you learned that the gates of Canada were unjustly closed to our dear Pastor. I had the honor of standing with him in the Toronto Union Depot when word was received that he would not be allowed to address further public meetings in Canada.
The righteous indignation of those present there was stirred; we wanted to demand what right the authorities had to shut out a Christian gentleman who had in no way dishonored himself or his cause, and who had every right to speak. He merely said, "I will not go where I am not wanted. If they want me, I will come." There was not the least note of resentment in his words. We were rebuked, by his example, for our resentment. We had been tempted to reclaim the life-rights which we had laid down in sacrifice; we were not citizens of that country, but of the Heavenly one!
Especially would I bring to the notice of the Elders of the various Ecclesias at this time the beautiful picture of [R6009 : page 370] "The Sheep in the Storm"--how they are huddled together, head to head, for safety and protection. Let us keep this in mind. It was the first thought that came to me when I fully realized that our Beloved Brother had passed beyond the Veil. The next thought was of joy, born of the assurance that he is now part of the glorified Body of The Christ, and beyond the reach of his enemies!
"Blessed are ye when men shall revile you and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in Heaven."
SORROW AND JOY COMMINGLED BY J.T.D. PYLES--WASHINGTON, D.C. In the city of Washington, whence I came, there are many sad hearts today, on account of the loss sustained in the death of our Beloved Pastor. Not only several hundred Bible Students, who diligently search the Scriptures, aided by his writings, but many thousands of others, recognizing the grandeur of his character, mingle their tears together. Sorrow and joy are mixed; for we are mindful that he has finished his course, that he was faithful, and therefore must now have the promised reward.
I have known Brother Russell intimately for twenty years. He has many times been a guest at my home, and I have also been a guest at his home. I was privileged to be associated with him for four months in a tour around the world; I lived with him, day and night, under varied circumstances; he was a gentleman, aye, more, a Christian, a highly developed Christian; in fact the most highly developed Christian I ever knew, a noble representative of our Lord. I loved him in life, I honor him now in death, and pay tribute to his memory.
His STUDIES IN THE SCRIPTURES will continue to make luminous the Bible. The Associated Bible Students throughout the earth will continue to look to Brooklyn as heretofore, thankful to our Lord for the wise provision our Beloved Pastor has made for the perpetuation of the work. Confidence and loyalty will be manifested by all true children of God; for the Truth is just as precious to us today as ever it was. It came from our Heavenly Father through our Lord Jesus, and was made plain by his servant, our dear Brother Russell, whom we all highly esteemed in love for his works' sake.
"HE BEING DEAD--YET SPEAKETH" BY C.A. WISE--INDIANAPOLIS We bring to you on this momentous occasion, the love and sympathy of the Church at Indianapolis, many of whom have known and loved our Beloved Pastor, and for years have been loyal to him--their teacher and friend. Now that he has been taken away, we have resolved to stand shoulder to shoulder and to hold high the banner of our King, whom our Pastor so dearly loved.
Twenty-five years ago it was my privilege to meet for the first time the few Bible Students who met yearly in Allegheny at the Memorial season. There at the home of our Brother we were privileged to meet him who has now sacrificed his life for the Truth he so dearly loved.
As years passed, we became more closely associated with him, and as we were enabled to see in him that wonderful, Christ-like character which has been a source of great blessing to many, our love and respect for him increased. We have never been disappointed in him.
As our studies in the Word of God progressed, perplexing questions continually arose. These we were privileged to take to him; and like the disciples of old our own hearts burned within us as we listened to his clear and beautiful unfolding of the Word of God. We thus learned that we were sitting at the feet of a man of God, and also the greatest Bible scholar since the days of the Apostles.
His kind, loving words and noble deeds will live on; and "he, being dead, yet speaketh."
MUST LOYALLY COOPERATE BY DR. L.W. JONES--CHICAGO No greater honor could be accorded me at the present time than to be here to speak a few words of tribute to the memory of our dear Brother. My relationship to him has been different in some respects, perhaps, from that of any other individual; for I have been closely associated with him for a great while. Many a time I have stood on the platform and introduced him to various audiences in this country and abroad. I am glad to be here at this time to say a few words.
For ten years my work in connection with the Convention Reports has brought me in close contact with Brother Russell and the work of the Society in general. Our understanding has been thorough on this matter. Then, too, I have traveled extensively with him as his secretary on various trips, particularly in connection with the world tour in 1912, when for nearly four months we were closely associated. Many times Brother Russell discussed with me his personal and private affairs, as well as the work in hand; and I desire to say that his one aim was to seek to do the will of God, and in it all he recognized that the work he was doing was not his, but Jehovah's.
When the friends in Chicago learned through the newspaper reports that Brother Russell's death had taken place, they could not believe their ears and eyes, and repeatedly called me up to verify the reports. As soon as we told them, "Yes, it is true that our dear Pastor has gone beyond," immediately they would say, "Brother, now we must keep close together. We must put our shoulders to the wheel. We must loyally cooperate." It did me much good to see the faith of the brethren and know that they would stand loyal to the Truth. Therefore at this time I voice the sentiments not only of the Chicago Church as a whole, but of the various Classes in the vicinity of Chicago, numbering about twelve or fifteen. Their determination is to stand loyal and faithful to the new organization and to cooperate with it in every possible way. They realize that our dear Pastor has opened before us the Scriptures, and has made them so plain that everything necessary for the making of our calling and election sure, has been laid before the faithful and loyal, that we may press on to a glorious consummation, even unto death, as he did. It is our determination to be more loyal, more faithful, that we may promulgate this glorious Gospel--"glad tidings of joy"--in this Harvest work which he so grandly started, which he so faithfully carried on until the great God whom he served said, "Enough, come up higher!"
LEFT THE STORE-HOUSE FULL BY INGRAM MARGESON--BOSTON The Boston Class of Bible Students were greatly shocked when the news came over the wire telling of our beloved Pastor's death, or home-going. We felt such a sadness and loneliness; yet our hearts rejoiced to know that our dearly beloved Brother had been changed from the human to the Divine nature; that his has been the blessed privilege of entering into the presence of the King of Kings, even into Heaven itself. Yes; how blessed! He has gone to be forever with the Lord. We keenly feel our loss. He whom God had been pleased to use as our light-bringer and comforter can no longer give personal words of comfort and advice. Yet, by Divine Providence, so much has come to us from his pen we feel the store-house has been left filled with food; and our desire is to partake of this provision, doing our part in telling out the Gospel message, which is good tidings of great joy, and which [R6010 : page 371] shall, thank God, in due time be known by all people.
A special meeting of the Boston Church was called almost immediately, and from four to five hundred quickly came together. Resolutions were unanimously passed, expressing our sincere Christian love and sympathy for all the bereaved ones throughout the world, and in a special way to the dear Bethel Family and Tabernacle workers. All were commended to God for His special care and blessing. The words of the Apostle comfort us: "My God shall supply all of your need, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
As a personal testimony, I wish to state that it has been my privilege to travel with our dear Brother Russell for days, weeks and months at a time, both in America and during his journey around the world. My greatest impressions were, how implicitly he trusted the Lord in everything! Whether on train, steamboat or at hotel, before taking up the day's work, he would kneel and ask God's blessing and help. We shall never forget his ceaseless and untiring love for all the Church, ever trying to enlighten and comfort them, even laying down his life for the brethren when his body was worn and racked with pain. He would never murmur nor complain, but would say, "We have it so much easier than did the Apostles and our dear Lord." WHAT AN EXAMPLE HE HAS LEFT US! Truly he has earned the victor's Crown!
MOULDED THOUGHT OF MILLIONS BY A.I. RITCHIE--NEW YORK Our Pastor was very dear to the Bethel Family. He was a loving, yet just head over the Home, and all the members of the Family had ready access to him with their perplexities and troubles. It was interesting to notice how almost all went away from these interviews smiling, as if all difficulties had been cleared up. He seemed almost intuitively to understand; and was always sympathetic and tender, even when he himself was suffering great pain.
When I read his DIVINE PLAN OF THE AGES in 1888, it answered all my questions; and as I continued to read my love and admiration for him increased, though I never met him until 1905. My later years of close association with him were a constant inspiration to me. The better I knew him, the better I loved him. He was the best man I ever saw, and I never expect to see his equal. There is none like him.
He entered so fully into our lives that there might be a danger of thinking of him as belonging peculiarly to the Bethel Family, or to the New York Ecclesia, or at least to the Bible Students of America. But he was broader than all these; he was loved and respected by Bible Students and Truth seekers the world over. He was also respected and loved by devout Jews in almost every part of the world, and helped much to revive their faith in their Bible promises.
Besides all this I am convinced that he did more to mould public thought--especially in the religious world--than all other contemporary religious leaders. Very few now believe the doctrine of eternal torment; thanks to his efforts! He brought many other religious truths to light.
OPENED OUR EYES OF UNDERSTANDING BROTHER C.J. WOODWORTH--SCRANTON Our dear Redeemer taught us that "man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." The words that our Redeemer Himself spoke were especially precious to our Brother, so that the Lord's slightest word or act spoke volumes to him. One little point he explained in reference to the man whose eyes the Lord opened. The Lord spat upon the ground; and out of the clay and the spittle He made an ointment, with which He anointed the eyes of the blind man. Then the man washed in the pool of Siloam, and returned seeing.
Brother Russell calls our attention to the fact that this illustrates how the Spirit of the Lord, coming out of His mouth, comes down and mixes with the clay of earth; and thus that clay, if plastic enough, can be applied for the opening of the spiritual eyes of those that were born blind. [R6010 : page 372] And so today, all over the world, throughout the countless ages of eternity, men and women can rejoice that Jesus our Savior and Redeemer used this clay lying before us here to bring us out of the kingdom of darkness and into the Kingdom of God's dear Son. Praise His name for the blessings brought to us through our dear Pastor!
"REPRESENTED ALL THAT WAS NOBLEST, HOLIEST, BEST" BY D. KIHLGREN--MASS. The Ecclesia at Springfield, Easthampton and Holyoke, Mass., wish me to express to you their heartfelt sympathy and Christian love.
Our beloved Pastor's death has aroused in our hearts all that is noblest, holiest, best. We rejoice unselfishly that his labors are over, and that he has entered into his rest and reward. We sorrow as we feel keenly the loss of his faithful ministry. We sympathize with one another in our bereavement, and especially with those closest to him in his labors. We feel an increased concern for the continuance of the work he was God's instrument in carrying forward. We are resolved that by God's grace we shall be inspired by our Beloved Brother's life and teachings to greater faithfulness.
It was my privilege to know our Pastor upwards of twenty years, and his personal example was perhaps even more inspiring than his teachings. He never worried, was never impatient. His peace of mind was wonderful.
Our Beloved Pastor took a genuine, personal interest in all of the Lord's people. He rejoiced in their progress, and treasured their interesting experiences in his wonderful memory. To illustrate: When on the way home from a one-day convention he asked one of our number: "Is old Brother K----- living yet?" "Yes." "Kindly give him my Christian greetings and tell him that I remember the testimony he gave in Allegheny some twenty years ago."
Brethren, our beloved brother has left us a noble example. Shall we not follow him, as he followed Christ? Shall we not lay down our lives for the brethren, as he did? By God's grace we will! May our end be as his!
RENEWAL OF CONSECRATION DAILY BY DR. E.A. McCOSH--DETROIT I esteem it an honor to be here on this occasion. I wish to convey to you from the Detroit Church their greeting and their desire to let you know that they will be loyal to the memory of our dear Pastor.
It was my privilege to know our dear Brother personally; and I wish to state one thing with regard to him that possibly not all know. For years he suffered with a peculiar ailment, which rendered him very, very weak at times; and he could hardly go on with his discourses for pain. We can better appreciate the wonderful character of our beloved Pastor when we know that he was usually under stress and pain. I prescribed for him at one time; but when two years after, I asked him if he had taken the medicine, he remarked, "Dear Brother, I have not had time."
If our beloved Pastor, now glorified, has shown us such a wonderful example of cheerfulness and long suffering it behooves us to follow faithfully in his steps. The action of the Detroit Class, taken at the testimony meeting Wednesday, [R6011 : page 372] was in the nature of a renewal of their consecration, and they determined to renew it daily to the cause for which our loving Pastor so loyally laid down his life.
We wish to assure those whom the Pastor has left in charge of the Society's affairs of our loyalty and of our resolution to be good soldiers of Jesus Christ at all times. When a vacancy comes to the ranks, let us press together the harder, shoulder to shoulder, and close it up as best we can. Let us crystallize our character, so that we may be able to endure all things, for God will cause the wrath of man to praise Him and will prepare us for His presence by means of reproaches and persecutions, which probably await us.
BURY OUR SORROW IN SERVICE BY C.B. SHULL--COLUMBUS As a representative of the Columbus, Ohio, Ecclesia, I bring you their fervent Christian love and an expression of mutual joy and sorrow. We rejoice in thinking of the transcendent happiness our Beloved Pastor is now realizing in its fullness, because of his faithfulness even unto death; and we resolve by God's grace to bury our sorrow in the service of those who are yet hungering and thirsting for His true Message.
