President, because of these things regarding the church, which all men
know to be true; because of these things regarding our city, which all
men know to be true; for the sake of Christ and His gospel, for the
sake of our country and our laws, for the love of our boys and girls,
I suggest that each society in this union appoint a committee of three
from their membership, each of these committees to add to itself one
good business man who believes in the teaching of Christ, but who is
not connected with any church; the joint committee to meet in council
for the purpose of formulating some plan to meet the needs of this
city along the lines of our subject this evening."
At this strange and unexpected ending of Cameron's address, the audience
sat astonished. Then, from all over the house, voices were heard
murmuring approval of the plan.
Rev. Jeremiah Wilks was the first to speak. "I'm heartily in favor of
the suggestion," he said. "I think it's a good thing. It will get some
of our moneyed men interested in the church and it will do them good.
I've often told our people that something like this ought to be done,
and I know the preachers of the city will be glad to take hold of the
matter and help to push it along. I'll bring it before our Ministerial
Association. You can count on me every time."
"But, Mr. President," said a strange gentleman, when Rev. Wilks had
resumed his seat, "Is it the idea of the gentleman who suggests this
plan, that the movement be under the control of or managed by the
ministers?"
A painful hush fell over the audience.
Pages:
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205