re to ask
our attention. The greater problem before the American people is not
any new one. The Christianization of nearly three millions of colored
people yet in illiteracy and moral darkness is a call to Christian
love and service as loud as any call can possibly be. The messages of
the gospel of Peace, have the only promise of salvation to these
millions in darkness at our own doors. To give this to these needy
ones, who are not only near to our doors but who are ready to receive
the grace of Christ at our hands is the call of Christ for our
patience and fidelity. As we thank God that the smile of Heaven rests
upon our country once more in peace, we may well turn our thoughts
anew to our endeavor for the victories of Peace, and think as fairly
of our duty to lift these poor, ignorant millions above the perils of
increasing ignorance, as we have been thinking of the deliverance of
Cubans from their oppressions and wrongs. What these new possessions
now under our care may require of us, is another question which comes
with peace.
The millions of ignorant colored people in our own country not yet
reached need to be saved. They cannot save themselves. We owe them the
Christianity which we have. We owe them a chance for intelligent
faith. More than forty per cent. of nearly eight millions are yet in
density of ignorance and mentally and morally weak. They can be saved.
What has been done is the pledge of what may be done. Let us then
consecrate ourselves anew to the victories of peace and make our thank
offerings free and large for the glory which comes not of sieges and
battles, but the glory of Christian love and faith, of Christian
thinking and Christian working, for God's poor people who wait for
their day of redemption.
* * * * *
SHALL CUBA BE TAKEN FOR CHRIST?
The Alumni Association of Oberlin Theological Seminary recently passed
the following vote:
"Voted: That the Alumni of Oberlin Theological Seminary suggest
to the American Missionary Association the importance of
organizing at once for an extension of its educational and
evangelizing work into Cuba as soon as the deliverance of that
island from the dominion of Spain will permit."
At the recent Triennial National Council of Congregational Churches
held in Portland, Oregon, reference to the pressing of Christian
educational work into Cuba was greeted with enthusiastic applause.
And now there co
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