IE WORKERS'
CONFERENCE
How to Make It Go
HENRIETTA HERON
Hiss ~"B>V ) 5 2> n
Book .- ' - 5
Copyright N°
CCFflHGHT DEPOSIT.
THE WORKERS'
CONFERENCE
How to Make It Go
BY
Henrietta Heron
CINCINNATI
THE STANDARD PUBLISHING COMPANY
Copyright, 1921
The Standard Publishing Company
tf6
JUN -6 1921
©CU614750
I
To
the memory of
MY MOTHER
whose inspirational com-
panionship made
heavy tasks
light
"Use me, God, in thy great harvest-field,
Which stretcheth far and wide like a wide sea;
The gatherings are so few, I fear the precious
yield will suffer loss.
Oh, find a place for mel"
CONTENTS
PAGE
Preface 7
The Name 9
What It Is _ _ 11
Who Are Members 13
Conference Officers 15
Why Have It 16
The Time _ 18
The Place 20
Advertising the Conference 21
The Conference Supper 25
The Program _ 28
suggesttve program _ 3 1
A Program Committee 32
The Devotional Feature > 33
The Business Feature 36
Reports _ - - 38
5
CONTENTS
Securing Written Reports _ 40
Educational Feature 41
Subjects for Conference .... 46
Departmental Conferences > 50
A Community Monthly Workers' Con-
ference _ _ 52
How to Make It Go "Peptomizers" 55
Dangers to be Avoided 57
What Others Think _ - 59
How Plans Work When Tested _ 69
Getting Results - .. 75
A Convention Address _ 79
The Workers' Library 89
Appendix — 95
"The Heart of the Sunday School"... 99
Suggestive List of Books - ~ 137
PREFACE
THIS book has been prepared to meet
a pressing need expressed by those
who recognize the importance of the
Workers ' Conference. All who have the
interests of the church school at heart
know that a Workers' Conference is an
imperative necessity to successful work.
"How to Make It Go" is the problem.
The plans herein suggested have been
tested out in the laboratory of experience.
They are given in simple form and are
adaptable to any school. Their wise and
prayerful use will, we believe, not only
give direction to the work, but will de-
velop team-work spirit among the workers,
and quicken them to spend themselves
and be spent in His service.
7
PREFACE
The workers in the church school are
God's chosen ones. The influence of their
faithfulness, their devotion, their never-
tiring effort, their constant endeavor to
know the best and to do the best they know
is one of the great leavening forces of the
world. This little book of practical sug-
gestions is sent forth with a prayer that
it may give needed help to these conse-
crated workers and have some share in
making them more efficient in their task
of bringing the kingdom on earth.
H. H.
THE WORKERS'
CONFERENCE
HOW TO MAKE IT GO
The Name
The Workers' Conference is a new name
applied to an old idea with new adapta-
tions to the new conditions of the modern
Sunday school. It is bringing about new
and desired results. It is not many years
ago that a Teachers' Meeting was a re-
quirement for the standard Sunday school.
The new standard requires a Workers'
Conference. Just as the names Sunday
school and Bible school are giving way to
the term church school, with its more com-
prehensive meaning and deeper signifi-
cance and larger purpose, so the term
9
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"Teachers' Meeting" is being supplanted
with the name "The Workers' Confer-
ence." Just as the name church school
covers all that is expressed in Sunday-
school, or Bible school, and much more
LOWING IDE
The Wortenr' Conference Cor our Sundry
and Teacher* o -A Growing Idea." Growing
and Heapfainra* ConanuaDy. Thoat Who Once Attend
Not Be Induced » Stay Away.
Fail Amu) I
because of the new understanding of the
purpose and opportunity and responsibility
of the school, so the term Workers' Con-
ference covers all that was best in the
old-fashioned Teachers' Meeting, as well
as all the new meaning resulting from a
larger understanding of what such a meet-
ing can and should be.
10
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
The Workers' Conference is essential
to the success of any school. It is as
necessary, and as workable, in the rural
and small-town schools as in the large city
schools. It is to the church school what
the scientific kitchen is to the modern
home, the place where good things are
planned and skillfully prepared for building
up the health and strength of the members
of the household. It is simple in manage-
ment and effective and far-reaching in
results. It abundantly pays for the time
and effort required to promote it.
What It Is
The Workers' Conference is a meeting
of all the workers of the Sunday school
for conference, study, fellowship and in-
spiration.
The conference is fundamentally what
its name infers — a getting together of the
11
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
workers to confer one with another on
best plans of work for the school, and to
consider its highest interests. The use of
the Graded lessons has made antiquated or
inadequate the " Teachers' Meeting" of
former days. The larger plans of organi-
zation and higher ideals of religious educa-
tion have made imperatively necessary the
"Workers' Conference." Here problems
are presented and considered and a solu-
tion sought. New plans of work are talked
over. Failures are faced and the causes
discovered. Successes are studied and the
reasons found. Programs of action are
formulated. It is a democratic meeting
where each has a voice and a part.
While the main emphasis is on the
conference idea, yet the devotional, edu-
cational and fellowship features are vitally
important. Workers need constant train-
ing to keep abreast of the times. They
12
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
also need the incentive and inspiration to
best effort and the challenge to faithful
sustained effort, which contact with fellow-
workers gives. The Workers' Conference
brings the workers together under condi-
tions that stimulate to study, quicken
interest, cement friendships, enlarge visions,
deepen responsibility, strengthen loyalty
and give largest incentive to best work.
Who Are Members
Every official worker of the Sunday
school is by virtue of his office a member
of the Workers' Conference. Teachers and
department superintendents, and all other
officers, make up the personnel. The min-
ister of the church is, of course, a recog-
nized member of the Workers' Conference.
The organized classes in the Young
People's and Adult Divisions are wisely
granted representation, in addition to their
13
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
The Key
To the Sunday School Situation is Held
by the Leaders.
The Workers' Conference
Opens the Door of Success for Our School.
The Key Will Get Rusty and So Will
the Lock if You Stay Away.
Great Days Are Ahead
We Must Go Forward. To Have
at the Workers' Conference Means
in Our School.
Be Sure to Attend die Conference
A.B.C No. TJ-Coprrlght. 1919
Booster
Post-card
Used
to
Advertise
the
Workers'
Conference
teacher, the official "lay" representative
being elected or appointed by the class. A
Home Department class may also be given
additional representation. Each class is gen-
14
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
erally allowed one or two representatives, al-
though in some schools the number of repre-
sentatives is determined according to the size
of the class. These "lay workers" bring
new viewpoint, fresh enthusiasm and prac-
tical ideas to the conference, and in turn
receive an insight into the plans and pur-
poses and problems of the school that en-
courages them to work sympathetically
and intelligently and helpfully with the
others in promoting the school program.
Conference Officers
The conference is usually under the
direction of, and presided over by, the school
superintendent or the religious educational
director. As leader, he seeks to serve
rather than rule in autocratic manner.
The secretary of the school usually acts
as secretary of the conference, keeping
accurate record of the proceedings of the
2 15
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
meetings, and preserving them for future
reference.
Committees are appointed as needs pre-
sent themselves.
Why Have It
The Workers' Conference gives all the
official workers an opportunity to have a
voice and a vote in the working plans of
the school.
It provides for a conference on school
problems and plans of work.
It offers opportunity for friendly fel-
lowship among the workers, which inspires
to best effort.
It gives educational training.
It brings into the work a spirit of de-
votion and worship.
It groups the workers for departmental
conferences where specialized help is re-
ceived.
16
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
It cares for the major business details
of school management in a businesslike
way.
It makes the school management dem-
ocratic rather than autocratic.
It develops a sense of ownership and
responsibility on the part of each worker.
It stimulates thought and generates
new ideas through exchange of experiences.
It gets at the root of any causes for dis-
couragement, and thus does away with
this handicap among the workers.
It brings about a team-work spirit,
where each worker feels his task, though
small, is important to the success of the
whole.
It keeps the atmosphere " sunny/ '
doubts and misunderstandings being cleared
away in the light of frank discussion.
It gives intensified inspiration for self-
forgetful service.
17
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
The Time
The Workers' Conference in most
schools is held once a month, and this
seems most practical for the average school.
It is of utmost importance to have a "set
night" for the conference, so that workers
can plan attendance and can not well plead
a previous engagement for non-attendance.
Deciding upon the first Tuesday of the
month, the last Thursday of the month, or
such other time as proves most convenient
to all concerned, will greatly aid in stimu-
lating interest and in building up attend-
ance.
Many schools find it practical to meet
for a fellowship supper, preceding the
conference. This is especially true in large
cities where workers find it convenient to
come directly to the church from their
offices. This not only saves time and car-
fare and energy, but the supper proves an
18
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
attractive social feature which encourages
attendance.
Some schools find it practical to hold
the conference after the mid-week prayer-
meeting. This somewhat limits the time,
but, if it "works" well on that night,
there is no objection to holding it then.
In some cases the prayer-meeting takes
the place of the devotional period of the
conference.
A few rural schools report successful
conferences held on Sunday afternoon. A
few may question whether it is ever advisable
to hold a meeting, in which some business
has to be transacted, on Sunday. The rural
schools that are experimenting along this
line find that it is the only time they can
get their workers together, and thus feel
justified in using the day in this way.
One rural school holds its conference the
first Sunday afternoon of each month,
19
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
the workers bringing their dinners with
them. They attend school and church in
the morning, have dinner, followed by an
afternoon of conference, and remain for
the evening church service.
The time will have to be decided by
each school to meet its own local conditions,
but every school may have "a set time,"
which is of utmost importance in promoting
a successful conference.
The Place
The church parlor is the best place for
holding the conference for the average
school. There are distinct advantages in
getting the workers together for confer-
ence in the place where they carry on their
work.
Small schools find it more practical,
however, to meet at the homes of the work-
ers. If the workers take turns in enter-
20
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
taining the conference, the work does not
fall heavily on any one person.
A few city schools hold their confer-
ences " downtown. ' ' They secure a room
at the "Y," or in a restaurant or hotel,
and have the workers come directly from
their offices to the selected place, the con-
ference program being preceded by a
supper.
Advertising the Conference
A regular night, strictly adhered to, is
one of the best kinds of advertisement for
the conference. This can be frequently
referred to whenever opportunity presents
itself. Other means of advertising may
also be used with good results. The ad-
vertising value of the program itself
can not be overestimated. A post-card
reminder of the time and place, with a
" catchy* ' announcement of the special fea-
21
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
ture of the program for the evening, helps
to bring out a good attendance. If people
are made to feel that something worth
while is going to happen at a certain
place, at a certain time, they are likely
to make any effort to be there.
%
The Coaling Station
and Water Tank of
the Sunday School
That's whai Out Wvrkm' Conference u — and til Teachers
and Officers who do not Scop There, arr running a Fearful
Rult of arriving a> Sunday School with brde Fur and leat Steam.
Do not cnpple Yourself and the School
Our next Conference -jill tx Lf,A
Dov't let anything keep you stray
Some schools write a personal letter
to each worker each month, stating the
subjects to be discussed and other at-
tractive features.
The school paper or the church pro-
gram leaflet are good advertising mediums.
A regular "corner" may be reserved for
22
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
the Conference announcements and reports.
The daily newspaper will carry an an-
nouncement free of charge if prepared in
accord with the paper's regulations re-
garding free announcements.
A notice may be kept posted on the
church or school bulletin-board.
The young people's classes in one
school vied with one another in making a
series of attractive posters to advertise
the "Workers' Conference. These posters
were made with colored pictures cut from
magazines and papers, and were inexpen-
sive and effective.
The blackboard may be used for a
special "ad" on the Sunday previous to
the conference.
The telephone is always a practical
and effective means of letting others know
and reminding would-be forgetters of the
time and place.
23
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
A printed conference supper ticket,
put on sale a week previous to the confer-
ence, is an excellent way of advertising.
The ticket is a reminder of the date and
place, and once purchased is likely to en-
courage the purchaser to attend.
rc
Dinner Ticket
Cnurcn Sckool Workers* Conference
iference
AT THE
WALNUT HILLS CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Dinner served at 6 45 P M
■sacs =a< : ii ic 11= ii ii , acSL
''Tell others" is a good advertising
slogan for all workers. Each one is asked
to be responsible for reminding some one
else of the conference.
A well-worked-out program schedule
in printed form, pocket size, is an excel-
lent means of keeping all informed of the
24
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
good things provided, and of making them
realize they will miss something if they do
not attend.
The work of advertising the conference
should be in charge of a Publicity or
Advertising Committee.
The Conference Supper
When the conference is preceded by a
supper, the supper should not be expensive
or elaborate, and should be prepared with
as little trouble to the workers as possible.
Various plans may be used. One school
uses the committee plan, a different com-
mittee preparing the supper each month.
This gives variety in the menu and the
work does not fall heavily on any group.
This is probably the most practical plan
for the average school. Another school
pays one of the church women three dol-
lars an evening for preparing the supper.
25
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
This is paid out of the school treasury.
Still another school has each person bring
his own supper, hot coffee being served.
Again, the different young people's classes
take turns in acting as caterers for the
occasion.
The expense may be met in several
ways. Care must be exercised that the
supper is not made a money-making affair.
The simplest plan is to have each one pay
for his own supper, the price being kept
down to actual cost. One school charges
only twenty cents a plate, but serves a
forty-cent supper, the difference being paid
from the school treasury. Where the
young people's classes act as caterers they
should be privileged to do so only when
the idea of service supersedes that of
money-making. They will readily see how
they can render a real service to the school
in such ministry, and that it will be well
26
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
worth while, even though they make no
money for their class treasury. In very
small schools, where the members take turns
in entertaining the conference in their
homes, the expense for light refreshments
is usually borne by the hostess. As the
turn does not come often, the expense is
not heavy on any one person. When the
conference is held at the "Y," or other
public eating-place, each one pays for his
own supper.
The time for starting the supper should
be set wisely, to meet the convenience of
the majority of the workers, and should
always be served promptly at the time
advertised.
A happy, social time at the table is
usually spontaneous, but if there is the
least tendency to dullness or coldness, a
bit of fun and merriment may be injected
by impromptu singing, occasional use of
27
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
humorous place-cards, "changing part-
ners" or such other simple ways as will
suggest themselves to those in charge.
Formality is to be avoided. Usually the
friendliness of the workers is all that is
necessary to make the hour a happy one.
The Program
The program for the Workers' Confer-
ence determines to a large degree the suc-
cess or failure of the meeting. "Every-
thing depends upon the program" is a
common expression used by the workers
themselves when discussing problems con-
nected with building up a successful con-
ference. A live program will attract a
large attendance. Since the program is a
decidedly determining factor in the success
of the conference, effort must be concen-
trated in building one that is both attrac-
tive and worth while.
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Some Striking Things Will
Be Brought Out
WORKERS' CONFERENCE
of the Sunday School
at
Date
Time.
Don't let anything keep YOU away.
Sincerely.
Card
Used
to
Remind
the
Workers
ol the
Date
of the
Workers'
Confer-
ence
The program will vary from month to
month, and will probably not be the same
in any two schools. But there will be gen-
29
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
eral unanimity of outline of program.
The important thing is to have a prepared
program and to adhere to it. Beginning
and closing on time is important, which
means that the program must "run like
clockwork/' This need not interfere with
spontaneity nor with freedom of discus-
sion; it simply means that the leader tact-
fully keeps things in hand and sees to it
that the program is carried out in a busi-
nesslike manner.
Variety is imperatively essential to suc-
cess. The program must be kept fresh in
details, even though the general outline is
wisely followed. The theme changes from
month to month, and in itself provides
variety, but other new and attractive de-
tails should also be added.
A play, a magazine article review, a
debate, a drill, a demonstration, various
tests, an address, a book review — in these
30
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
and other ways, needed variety can be in-
troduced.
A careful study of Workers' Confer-
ence programs as outlined in various relig-
ious educational periodicals will prove very
valuable and will give new and seasonable
material.
Suggestive Program
6:30-7:15 — Supper and visiting.
7 :15-7 :25— Devotional.
7:25-7:35 — Transaction of business.
7 :35-7 :55 — Reports and recommendations of
general school officers, depart-
mental superintendents, commit-
tees and organized class repre-
sentatives.
7:55-8:10 — Discussion of immediate school
problems.
8 : 10-8 :30— Presentation of the theme for
the evening, followed by open
discussion by members.
3 31
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
8:30-9:00 — Special educational feature.
Three-minute opinions by workers.
9 :00-9 :30 — Departmental conferences.
A Program Committee
The importance of the program makes
it advisable to utilize the best talent pos-
sible in its preparation. The superintend-
ent, or the religious educational director,
of the school usually has general charge
of the program. He secures best results
through appointing a committee with whom
to confer and plan. The judgment of
several is likely to be better than that of
one in selecting subjects for conference
and deciding other program features. A
logical order in presentation of themes,
in accord with the seasonable needs of the
school for each month, is to be decided
upon, and is usually best worked out
through several conferring together. Dif-
32
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
ferent members of the committee may be
made responsible for different features of
the program, the leader, of course, keeping
oversight, checking up on the work and
seeing that formulated plans are carried
out.
The Devotional Feature
The devotional feature of the Work-
ers' Conference program has a fourfold
purpose: to recognize God's presence and
guidance, to bring the spirit of worship
into the conference, to train the workers
in expression of spiritual aspirations, and
to prepare the hearts and minds to re-
ceive the largest possible help from the
conference. Care must be taken to keep
the devotional period "alive with the
Spirit." To let it degenerate into a
mechanically performed routine service is
demoralizing. This service can most easily
33
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
be kept at its best by placing the respon-
sibility for it upon different leaders, en-
couraging each one to give his best to it.
The service is usually most helpful to the
extent it becomes co-operative, each one
having a share. Ten minutes is generally
considered long enough for this feature of
the program. The leader should keep
within the alotted time.
A devotional theme is always helpful —
the song, the Scripture lesson, the prayers
and testimonies, all relating to the sug-
gested theme. The theme may be season-
able. The following list is merely sug-
gestive :
September. — A New Start.
October. — Providential Care.
November. — Thanksgiving and Thanks-
living.
December. — Christmas Joy.
January. — In the Beginning God.
34
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
February. — The Power of Prayer.
March. — The Greatest Thing in the
World.
April. — The Grace of Happy-hearted-
ness.
May. — Faith and Works.
June. — Tests of Discipleship.
July. — Self-forgetful Service.
August. — Jesus' Estimate of Faithful-
ness.
The devotional spirit may be developed
in various ways. A few are here suggested:
By singing a hymn together, with or
without instrument.
Bowing the head in silent prayer on a
suggested subject for a given time.
Calling the alphabet, members spon-
taneously responding with a Bible verse
beginning with each letter as called.
Asking members to come prepared to
respond to roll-call with a verse containing
35
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
a certain word, or to give their favorite
saying of Christ's.
Having members give a Bible promise,
or a Bible verse expressing a prayer.
Asking for sentence prayers until a
certain number have prayed.
The devotional feature of the confer-
ence, rightly conducted, creates an atmos-
phere that puts the workers in best spirit
for the discussion of problems.
The Business Feature
How much of the business of the school
shall be transacted at the Workers' Con-
ference? If it is not transacted here,
how and where shall it be cared for? It
seems to be the consensus of opinion of
the workers who have had largest experi-
ence in Workers' Conferences that there
is great danger of the conference degener-
ating into a long-drawn-out, tedious busi-
36
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
ness session, and that this danger must be
constantly and carefully guarded against.
Every live school has business trans-
actions, but these can be cared for expe-
ditely. Some schools solve the problem by
having an Advisory Council, or an Official
Board, that transacts the detailed business
of the school. Other schools appoint com-
mittees who are given discretionary powers
to dispose of routine items, reporting to
the conference only those of major im-
portance.
The conference suggests, advises, recom-
mends and votes, but the details are car-
ried out by the council, or board, or com-
mittees.
Reports of business dealings are essen-
tial at the Workers' Conference, but these
need not be long drawn out. Those making
reports should be cautioned to condense in-
formation and to present it concisely.
37
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"Business" is not to be confused with
"school problems." The term as here
used refers to actual business transactions,
ordering supplies, paying bills and similar
items. Such business as may be essential
to the conference should be transacted as
promptly as possible to allow full time for
the actual conference on school needs and
problems and for the educational and
social features of the program.
Reports
Reports are an essential feature of the
"Workers' Conference program. Through
them knowledge is brought before the
workers of what is being done, what still
needs to be done.
Reports should be called for from the
various officers and committees. The at-
tendance secretary reports the increase or
decrease in membership and attendance,
38
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
which department has had the largest
average attendance for the month, which
has made the largest gain, and such other
items as are of interest. The absentee
superintendent reports the number of calls
made, letters sent, phone messages and
other important features of his work.
Special committees tell of work accom-
plished. Departments or classes may re-
port "the best thing accomplished this
month," or such other achievements as are
unique and of general interest.
Reports may be the dullest of program
features or the most "peppy" and attrac-
tive. It depends upon what has been
done worthy of report and how it is told.
A little instruction to the workers will help
them to catch the spirit and inspire them
to make their reports a real contribution.
Those making reports should be instruc-
ted to make them brief and to the pointy
39
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
and as interesting as possible. Providing
cards with questions for answers, simplifies
the making out of reports and tends to
eliminate unnecessary and uninteresting
details, at the same time need not prevent
originality on the part of the workers.
Those making reports should be encour-
aged to make recommendations for im-
provements and progress.
Securing Written Reports
"Written reports are a valuable asset
to any school. It is desirable to have all
reports made to the Workers' Conference
in written form. This tends to accuracy
and conciseness. If written, reports can
be filed, and thus contribute in the simplest
and most effective way to the compiling
of school history. The problem is how to
get written reports. Five things aid in
securing written reports:
46
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
1. Notify the worker in plenty of time
that a written report is desired.
2. Provide a printed card for the filling
in of the desired report.
3. Give plenty of publicity to the re-
port.
4. Commend well-prepared reports.
5. Keep the written reports on file.
Educational Feature
The educational feature of the confer-
ence converts the conference for the time
being into a training-school. Every worker
needs to keep informed of progress being
made in religious education, and needs him-
self to be a student and a growing worker.
This feature not only becomes a means of
instruction, but also tends to inspire to
further individual study and training.
What shall the educational feature be?
It will depend partly upon local school
41
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
needs and upon available talent. This
feature may be determined by the theme
of the evening, or may be a continuous
course of study.
Many schools bring in a trained worker
to present some practical phase of the
work to the workers at each meeting.
This may be in the form of an inspira-
tional address, or may be an informal
talk on "How we did it in our school."
When an outside speaker is brought in,
the subject assigned him should be in
harmony with the conference theme. For
example, if the main subject of the con-
ference relates to building up membership,
the speaker's subject should be in accord
with this.
A definite course of study may be
adopted, books, or chapters of books, being
studied at home and reviewed at the con-
ference, or read and discussed together.
42
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
It is important in choosing sueh a course
to select that which will most practically
meet local school needs, as well as enlarge
the vision of the workers. If the workers
adopt a course to be finished with the year,
it will incite to home study. Considerable
ground can be covered through the as-
signment of books for study at home, to
be reviewed at the conference.
One of the most practical plans is the
use of current religious educational liter-
ature. Nearly all Sunday-school helps
contain valuable method and inspirational
articles. A worker can study and give a
review of a magazine article, who perhaps
could not give the time during the month
to reading an entire book. New and sea-
sonable material is given from month to
month in these periodicals, and most of it
is of a very practical character. Accounts
of what other schools are doing are usually
43
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
featured, and such accounts may be graph-
ically retold at the conference in a way to
afford real inspiration. The plan of hav-
ing reviews of articles in current method
helps is of special value to schools in
smaller communities, where prominent
speakers are not so readily available. The
use of such seasonable material pro-
vides a never-ending source of interesting
variety.
A demonstration of a lesson taught is
always interesting, and is suggestive to
workers in all departments. "How I
Would Teach a Lesson to Beginners"
could be given one evening, and on other
evenings how to teach Primaries, Juniors,
Young People and Adults.
A debate on some educational theme
will provide variety.
Various kinds of drills may be used
effectively.
44
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Convention reports may make up an
interesting and helpful educational fea-
ture, delegates being instructed before
going to the convention that such reports
will be called for.
An experience meeting will prove prac-
tical on some such subject as "My Great-
est Problem as a Church-school Worker,
and How I Solved It."
In planning the program, it must ever
be borne in mind that the main emphasis
must be on the conference. No matter
how attractive and interesting a program
may be, if it fails to provide time for a
conference on immediate and general school
problems, it fails in its chief purpose. It
is the conference period of the program
that develops interest, brings about a
spirit of co-operation and makes each
worker feel that he or she has a real share
in the real work of the school.
45
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Subjects for Conference
The subjects for conference will be as
varied as are school needs. There are
some problems, however, that are com-
mon to all schools and present themselves
in new form each recurring season. In
the autumn there is the problem of rally-
ing the forces scattered during the vaca-
tion season. Then comes the considera-
tion of ways and means of celebrating
Thanksgiving Day and Christmas, followed
by formulation of plans for the New Year.
The problem of equipment presents itself
to all schools, as does that of grading.
Building up membership and keeping up
attendance are two ever-present problems.
The conference gives all an opportunity
to consider these and other questions of
vital importance to the school welfare, to
freely express their ideas, as well as to
vote on such matters as call for vote and
46
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
to delegate to committees for action such
as require action.
Subjects are not to be presented in
haphazard fashion, but should be worked
into a well-built-up program.
A question-box, relating to various
phases of the school work, can be made
instructive and interesting, teachers bring-
ing such questions for the box as they
might not care to present personally.
Printed leaflets are obtainable contain-
ing lists of questions.* The plan is to
place these leaflets in the hands of the
workers, freedom to be exercised by the
workers in calling by number for such
questions as they desire to have discussed.
Among subjects that are likely to need
consideration in the Workers' Conference
of the average school are:
Bringing members to decision for Christ.
*Leaflets can be secured from The Standard Publish-
ing Company.
4 47
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Courses of lesson study.
Celebrating special days.
Providing more adequate equipment.
Recognition of lesson work accom-
plished, and promotion plans.
Securing more classrooms.
Building up a workers' library.
Grading by age or school grade.
Definite goals to be attained.
How to build up our membership.
Keeping the attendance close to the en-
rollment.
Redepartmentizing our school.
Improving our school music.
Developing the missionary spirit.
Shall older classes be privileged to
elect their own teacher?
Securing punctuality.
What substitute teacher plan can we
adopt?
Teaching ideals.
48
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Community needs which our school
can meet.
Introducing variety into the opening
service.
Financing school and training to give.
Developing a Community Training-
school for teachers.
While the above and other subjects
may be worked into a well-defined program,
time should always be given for considera-
tion of ''pressing problems" which any
worker may present. The conference idea
must be given first importance; the work-
ers must be made to feel free to express
their views. Upon the superintendent or
leader rests the responsibility of carefully
guiding the conference, so that too much
time is not given to needless discussion or
to subjects of secondary importance and of
directing the conference to wisely planned
action.
49
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Departmental Conferences
Schools that are departmentized usually
arrange for brief departmental confer-
ences. These may be held either at the
close of the general conference, or imme-
Thraving Light on the Subject
Thaf • what out Sunday School Worker*' Conference » doing Only
* who are willing Co work away in the dark, will purpotely neglect it.
The beat way to be a light to others ia Co keep id Che bgfai younelf
Be eurc to attend the Conference __^___
diately following the devotional period,
the groups reassembling for the general
conference program.
These Departmental Conferences are in
charge of a leader, sometimes the depart-
ment superintendent, or it may be one of
the department teachers. The program
50
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
varies. A few minutes are usually devoted
to the consideration of such departmental
problems as are not suitable to be brought
up at the general conference. Sometimes
recommendations are made to be submit-
ted to the general conference. Where the
graded lessons are in use, not much can
be done in the way of helping the teach-
ers with specific lessons, although in a gen-
eral way help in teaching can be given.
One teacher may give a demonstration of
how she taught last Sunday's lesson, or
expects to teach the one on the following
Sunday. Questions as to how best to pre-
sent difficult lesson truths may be brought
up by the teachers for consideration.
A study of a book of special help to
the department workers is most practical.
Books on methods may alternate with
books on psychology. A chapter may be
read and discussed at the conference, or
51
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
chapters, read and studied at home accord-
ing to assignment, may be reviewed.
The Departmental Conference should
be brief, with a well-defined program, and
should close promptly at a given time.
A Community Monthly Workers'
Conference
A Community Monthly Workers' Con-
ference is being tried out with marked
success in some communities, worked on
plans similar to the local school conference.
The plan has special advantages for schools
in small towns. The fewness of workers in
each school often makes it difficult to work
up an enthusiastic meeting. It is also hard
to provide needed variety and inspiration
in the program where helpers are few.
These two difficulties are overcome by
having a community conference, by which
the workers of all the schools in the com-
52
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
munity are brought together once a month
for conference and training and inspira-
tion. This plan also tends to a unity of
program of work for all the schools of the
community as well as to concerted action
regarding community needs.
The program is similar to that carried
out in the local school conference, and the
plans suggested in this book for the indi-
vidual school conference can be adapted
and applied to the community conference.
A supper is usually provided, both as
a means of developing the social spirit and
of getting the workers together on time.
There are generally three groupings of
the workers. First, the workers from each
school get together to consider their own
immediate school reports, problems and
plans. Then the workers group according
to the work in which they are engaged,
the children's workers meeting in one
53
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
group, the young people's workers in
another, the adults in another and the ex-
ecutives in another. In each of these
groups definite training is given, with the
conference idea always prominent. The
review of a book, a demonstration of a les-
son taught, a brief talk by some worker,
open discussion of general problems, a
course of study along some practical line,
are also given consideration. The work-
ers all come together at the close of the
departmental conferences for a general
inspirational address on the theme of the
evening.
In the community conference, as in the
local school conference, success depends
largely upon the kind of program offered.
It must be outstandingly practical, must
meet the needs as they exist, must give
freedom for expression on the part of the
workers and must provide features that
54
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
are progressively educational. A well-
worked-out program, one feature of which
provides a consecutive course of training
from month to month, with opportunity
to discuss immediate problems and con-
sider best ways of solving them, is the
strongest attraction that can be offered.
Only as the workers feel they are getting
something well worth while will they at-
tend.
How to Make It Go "Peptomizers"
Have a "set night" known as Work-
ers' Conference night.
Remind the workers frequently of the
time and place and the feature of special
interest.
Arrange a fellowship supper in con-
nection with the conference.
Begin on time, close on time.
Have a live, worth-while program.
55
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Advertise the meeting in such way that
the workers will know they will miss some-
thing helpful if they don't attend.
Develop the "conference" idea, so that
all will feel free to take part.
Have special features that are of gen-
eral interest and relate closely to school
needs, and are progressively educational.
Try to discover the needs of the work-
ers, and to meet these in the conference.
Encourage the workers to bring their
problems to the conference.
Keep discussions close to the subject
and insist upon speakers being brief.
Crystallize discussions into definite plans
of action.
Introduce variety into every session.
Consider only business items of major
importance, delegating lesser ones to com-
mittees with discretionary powers to act.
56
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Make the conference a subject of reg-
ular prayer.
Dangers to Be Avoided
Long-drawn-out business sessions.
Too lengthy discussions of problems.
A "scattered" rather than a "con-
centrated ' ' discussion.
Having no well-defined program.
Too much time devoted to unimportant
questions.
Lack of promptness in beginning and
closing.
Autocratic leadership,
romoting a program rather than con-
ducting a conference.
Haphazard time of meeting.
Indefiniteness in advertising time and
place and program.
Failure to recognize "the power of the
Spirit" as more important than organiza-
tion.
57
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
WHAT OTHERS THINK
A list of eight questions regarding the
Workers7 Conference was submitted to a
group of successful Sunday-school workers.
Their answers have been condensed and
summarized. Where but one answer is
given to a question, it indicates a unani-
mous opinion.
Question One
How often should the Workers7 Confer-
ence he held?
"At least monthly. "
Question Two
Is it advisable for the lay members of
the organized classes of the Young People's
and Adult Divisions to be given represen-
tation?
59
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"Yes, by all means, in view of school
backing and future leadership. ' '
Question Three
Bo you approve of a supper in con-
nection with the conference?
"Yes."
"We find it the most practical way to
get a good attendance."
"By all means."
Question Four
What do yon consider the strongest
arguments for a Workers' Conference?
"School must have it to inspire and
educate workers as to the school needs and
how the various needs must be met."
"Gives regular systematic time for con-
sidering the interests of the school."
"Creates good feeling among all the
workers. ' '
"Gives an opportunity for each depart-
ment to know what the others are doing."
60
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"Biggest thing is that it keeps the school
going on — without it many schools would
not have the vitality to survive — it is the
one source of regular inspiration the teacher
has in addition to her Sunday morning
class and the 'few kind words' of the
superintendent. ' '
"The intellectual stimulus that comes
from comparing and considering ideas and
plans. ' '
"The inspiration that comes from the
sense of mutual partnership in the school's
affairs — the invaluable consciousness that
this is 'our school/ or even 'my school.' "
"The need that each officer and teacher
sees the school whole, sees beyond the hori-
zon of his own class or department. ' '
"The value of social association with
other workers."
"Furnishes opportunity to talk over
and solve problems."
61
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
" Creates spirit of fellowship in school's
leadership. ' '
"It's good, efficient business sense."
1 ' Stimulates endeavor. ' '
"Promotes unity of procedure; begets
co-operation. ' '
"Brings about mutual understanding
among workers."
"If properly operated, rivets the atten-
tion of the teachers on their work, instructs
them in the detail of class management,
and develops in them a spirit of interest,
loyalty and constancy."
Question Five
What dangers are to be avoided in the
Workers' Conference?
"Avoid long-drawn-out business ses-
sions. Matters of business should be re-
ferred to a Board of Education of the local
school for consideration and action, and
eliminated from Workers' Conference."
62
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"Long, dry speeches. Hobby riders.
People with chips on their shoulders. In-
dividual boasting — about class work, what
he has done in other fields, his or her pop-
ularity as indicated by demands for outside
service, etc."
"Koutine program. It gets conference
into rut."
"Too much routine business/ '
"Too much theorizing. Not enough
definite action. If it's all 'talk,' workers
get tired of it."
"That it gets too intellectual, 'over the
heads' of the workers. It should have bear-
ing on existing school problems."
"That it degenerate to a mere social
gathering. ' '
"That it attempt to handle all the
business details of the school."
"That it be given the impression that
it can discuss all it may choose to, but can
5 63
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
decide nothing. It should feel that its
voice has weight."
"Lack of plan, so that program drags
out interminably."
"That the plans made are not carried
through to completion."
"That it degenerates into a monoto-
nous business meeting."
"That it becomes simply an audience
for speakers — good though the speakers
may be."
"Having the conference run by one or
two instead of making it a co-operative
affair, all having a voice and vote."
"That it wastes too much time haggling
over and regretting lack of finance. Du-
plex-envelope system eliminates this dan-
ger."
"That it become a forum for selecting
people to run the special days."
' ' Unprepared programs. ' '
64
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
1 ' Long-drawn-out sessions. ' '
"Too much 'speechifying,' not enough
conference. ' '
"Depriving workers of the privilege
to vote on questions brought up."
Question Six
What is the strongest "pull" of the
Workers' Conference'? That is, what makes
the strongest appeal to you to attend?
"A spicy, quick-action program."
"The interest in the solution of the
problems of the school, particularly the
immediate and pressing problems."
"I want to get the viewpoint of the
other workers."
"Social part, if there were one appeal
stronger than the other; that, however, is
because of my daily job, and is, I think,
peculiar to me."
"The strongest pull, I think, is for each
worker to feel that he can contribute some-
65
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
thing to the conference, something more
than a mere report of what he has done."
" Sociability, special educational ad-
dresses by men and women who know things,
and strong conference discussion spirit.' '
"The privilege of talking over with
other workers our problems and working
out plans for solving them and for gen-
erally improving the school.' '
Question Seven
Which feature ought to he most stressed
in the Workers' Conference? The supper,
the special feature, entertainment, devo-
tional, business, the conference idea, social,
or just what?
"The conference idea, and particularly
the consideration of problems requiring
immediate attention. Above all things, it
should be made clear that the conference
is practical, that it is doing something defi-
nite and something that needs to be done."
66
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"The conference idea, special talks fol-
lowed by open discussion/'
"All are important. However, I should
stress the conference idea."
"A balanced combination of the social
and plans for future. Where a supper is
served this is sufficient emphasis on the
social. The leadesr will naturally empha-
size the real purpose of the conference,
but those less interested will be attracted
by means of the supper.'7
"There should be balance to the pro-
gram. ' '
"Sharing our problems with others
and having the benefit of their experience
and judgment in solving them."
Question Eight
What ways have you used to secure a
large attendance f
"We find that a live program always
brings out a fine attendance."
67
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"We use Booster post-cards to remind
our workers of the date and place/ '
"Nothing does the work like a well-
advertised, attractive program."
"We sell supper tickets a week in ad-
vance, which, we believe, helps greatly."
"The conference supper helps to bring
our workers together, saving them from
going home after work."
"We keep the date and special feature
of the program posted on the school bul-
letin-board. ' '
"We let workers know the main subjects
which will be up for vote, and, appreciat-
ing the value of voting, they make special
effort to be there."
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
HOW PLANS WORK WHEN TESTED
Developing Team-work
The superintendent, Dr. John E. Gurley,
of the West Side Christian Church school of
San Francisco, Calif., writes the following
interesting description of how the Workers'
Conference "works" in their school:
1. Our Workers' Conference is held
regularly on the first Tuesday evening of
each month — absolutely nothing is allowed
to interfere with it.
2. Attendance is 100 per cent, nearly
every time — never more than two or three
out of twenty-eight absent, and rarely that,
and there are always enough interested
visitors present to make up that loss.
69
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
3. The teacher-training class is all but
required to attend, thus this part of their
work becomes automatic — they come to
realize that accepting a call as teacher in-
cludes attendance at monthly conference.
4. Membership is built up and interest
maintained by keeping all hands so busy
doing something that they do not have
time nor desire to quit, as well as by the
following definite plans:
(a) Departmental conferences — each
teacher is definitely shown his or her re-
sponsibility, and the superintendent strives
for co-operative effort.
(b) All teachers and officers are taken
into full confidence in all matters that can
be handled thus publicly — hence the school
belongs to us all. No one works merely to
please some one person. The superintend-
ent does not say "go and do that," but
rather, "come on, let's do this."
70
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
(c) Round Robin Letters — clippings
pertaining to the work are sent out nearly
every week, pasted to a complete list of
names and addresses of teachers and offi-
cers, with a request for the receiver to
read the clippings and forward them to the
next name below.
(d) Each Sunday the superintendent
having already read the story-paper for
that day, calls attention to certain articles,
requesting that they be read by all. These
are also sometimes discussed at the confer-
ence.
(e) The place of the teacher is con-
stantly exalted.
(f) As the superintendent works, so
will, and does, every one else.
5. Dinner is served at 6:30, thus pro-
viding a delightful social hour preceding
the conference.
6. The program is divided as follows:
71
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
(1) Looking backward:
a. Teachers' reports. (A card is pro-
vided for written report. This induces
each teacher to make a good report on each
item, hence constant improvement is
noted. )
b. Departmental superintendent's re-
port.
c. General superintendent's report.
d. Pastor's report.
e. Discussion of reports.
(2) The present:
a. Unfinished business.
b. New business.
c. Discussion of work.
(3) The future:
a. Future plans.
b. Discussion of same.
c. Inspirational talk.
(4) Adjournment to departmental con-
ferences:
72
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
a. Children's Division.
(a) Cradle Roll.
(&) Beginners.
(c) Primary.
(d) Juniors.
b. Young People's Division.
(a) Intermediates.
(b) Seniors.
(c) Young People.
c. Adult Division.
(a) Adult Department.
(b) Home Department.
(c) General church work, or occa-
sionally the Official Board meets, having
sat at dinner and through our meeting.
Of course, in the very beginning we
have had read the minutes of the last
meeting, followed by roll-call, at which
time all reports are made.
Sometimes we merely call for the re-
port cards, omitting the reading, and de-
73
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
vote that time to discussion of some timely
article. At one meeting the following ar-
ticles, read by as many different persons,
were reviewed and discussed.
1. Trained Leadership in the Bible
School.
2. Why Continue to Teach.
3. Reality in Teaching.
4. The Teacher's Reading.
This was followed by the superintend-
ent's presentation of a plan of organization,
in which he laid special emphasis on the
value of organization, and showed the
very definite place of every one. Organ-
ization is important, but by no means the
most important — consecration and devotion
must ever hold first place; a good organ-
ization merely helps to "put it over," it
makes the work easier.
This was discussed, after which the
pastor spoke briefly on another article,
74
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"Extending the Lines," or the Extension
Department.
Special emphasis is given to the work
of the Home, Cradle Eoll and Absentee
Departments. This keeps many people
busy, and busy people are bound to be-
come interested and get results.
Getting Results
The Indiana Avenue Christian Church
School of South Bend, Ind., a school with
an enrollment of about 350, holds its
"Workers' Conference regularly each month
on the third Monday evening. C. H. Kry-
der, the superintendent, gives the follow-
ing description of how the school makes the
conference "go":
While our program varies somewhat,
it usually runs along about as follows:
7:00 Supper and fellowship period.
7:45 Departmental conferences.
75
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
8
00 Devotional period.
8:15 Business period.
8:45 Educational period.
We have found that by beginning our
meeting with a supper we are able
to have a much larger attendance, and it
enables us to do more in an evening and
adjourn at an early hour. The superin-
tendent appoints three ladies, who are not
teachers or officers of the school, as a com-
mittee to arrange the supper. This com-
mittee assigns each worker certain articles
to bring prepared for the supper. Very few
of our workers are ever absent, and those
that are absent have reasons which are
usually beyond their control; in fact, they
all look forward with keen interest to the
conference, and we have no difficulty in
maintaining interest. We always have a
program that is worth while. We find this
is the greatest incentive to attendance.
76
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Immediately after the supper we begin
our departmental conferences. The teach-
ers are divided by departments and meet
in separate rooms with their department
superintendent to discuss their own par-
ticular work. This works fine, as it com-
pels the department superintendents to
plan the work ahead in order to have some-
thing to present to the teachers, and it also
proves an inducement for the department
superintendents to see that their teachers
are present at the conference. A few days
previous to the Workers' Conference the
general superintendent meets with the de-
partment superintendents, pastor and gen-
eral secretary to plan the work.
We would not care to hold a conference
without a devotional period, as it is a great
help to the program which follows.
Our business period is usually short.
We have the secretary's and treasurer's
77
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
^ — — <
reports, committee reports, department re-
ports and other general business matters.
All business matters are usually threshed
out at the meeting of the superintendents,
and "boiled down" before presented before
the Workers' Conference, therefore mak-
ing it unnecessary for long discussions at
the conference.
During the educational period we fre-
quently take up some special subject out-
lined in a religious educational periodical.
At our last conference one of our teach-
ers gave a talk on "Planks in the Teach-
er's Platform," taken from a magazine
article by Margaret Slattery. Following
the talks, the subject is freely discussed.
The writer does not understand how
any school can do satisfactory work with-
out the Workers' Conference. The results
obtained abundantly pay for all the time
and effort put forth to promote it.
78
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
A CONVENTION ADDRESS
[Address given by Prof. J. A. Garber, at the Ohio
State Sunday School Convention. This outline state-
ment represents the speaker's analytical study of the
subject and does not include his apt illustrations.]
The assigned subject, "The Monthly
Workers' Conference," seems to have been
thoughtfully worded. The words employed
suggest certain points worthy of observa-
tion and emphasis.
Time. — In some schools council meetings
are held annually; others, semi-annually;
others, quarterly; but in the well-organized
school the workers meet monthly for
consultation and deliberation. To meet
less frequently is to deprive the council of
sufficient time. To meet more frequently
is to incur the displeasure of the members
6 79
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
who feel the burden of numerous meetings.
Monthly meetings are most advisable and
most feasible.
Personnel.— Let us remind ourselves
that the conference is not the business
committee of the Sunday school, nor is it
the Official Board of the Sunday school,
nor is it the chief officers of the Sunday
school It is the workers' conference, and
oil the ivorkers are included; viz., the min-
ister educational director, superintendents,
principals, teachers, secretaries, treas-
urers leaders of music, librarians, ushers.
Class presidents or some representative of
the older organized classes may attend on
invitation. In the case of the large school
with many officers the list may appear to
be too inclusive. If one fears an unwieldly
mass among so many, the apparent disad-
vantage will be offset with the opportunity
to foster unified thinking among the
80
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
larger group. With a wise general in
charge the difficulty vanishes.
Conference. — The conference, therefore,
consists of selected workers who meet
monthly to take counsel one with the other,
which will issue in deliberate purpose and
represent the collective judgment of the
assembly. Jointly these regularly assem-
bled councilors consider the ''Stop, Look
and Listen" signals which have come
within the scope of their vision during the
month. Unitedly they assume the role of
specialists, diagnosing conditions prevail-
ing in their charge and prescribing both
corrective, preventive and promotive
formulas.
If those who constitute the official family
of the Sunday school do not do some defi-
nite, careful and thorough thinking and
planning, there will be none done in the
Sunday school. And if the school is going
81
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
along haphazardly, indifferently, wanting
in efficiency, in thoroughness, it is largely
because those who are charged with official
responsibility are not meeting their respon-
sibilities. With these monthly meetings
the members of the conference have the
opportunity of doing the kind of necessary
thinking and planning. Charged with of-
ficial responsibility, they begin to diagnose
conditions, month by month, and take into
account all conditions prevailing in the
school, whether favorable or unfavorable.
If unfavorable, steps are taken to correct
the conditions. If favorable, plans are
laid to accomplish still better work.
Program. — A carefully prepared pro-
gram will give relish and reach, pull and
push, direction and decision. Without
some guiding agenda, to be closely followed
as the order of the day, the meeting may
degenerate into inane talking and fruit-
82
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
less discussion, the participants departing
while floundering in the mire of discourage-
ment or sinking in the slough of despond.
Business should be reduced to a minimiur
through assignment to the several com-
mittees to whom will be given discretionary-
power to dispose of routine items, report-
ing to the council only matters of major
importance. The conference is not for the
purpose of transacting a lot of tedious
detail business, and to dissipate time and
energy in this way is most harmful. Cer-
tain points of school administration may
be committed to the departmental confer-
ences which follow the general session. In
addition to business, provision should be
made for a devotional period which will
deepen religious purposes and the study
of some timely topic which will strengthen
educational ideals. Certain outstanding
characteristics of the program are:
83
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
1. Vital, yet visioned.
2. Comprehensive and continuous.
3. Proportionate and progressive.
4. Variable, yet seasonable.
Illustrative of these points, observe the
following suggestive program used by one
school for one year. Note the monthly
theme and sub-topics in each instance.
September. — Recovering and Rebuilding.
1. Rallying our Forces.
2. Working Policies and Standards.
October. — Religious Education of Child-
hood and Youth.
1. Their Religious Educational Needs.
2. The Ministry of the Home.
3. The Function and Aims of the Church
School.
November. — Cultivatmg Worshipful At-
titudes.
1. Worship, Its Meaning and Cultiva-
tion.
84
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
2. Thanksgiving and Thanksliving.
December. — Developing Stewardship
Ideals.
1. Giving of Self, Substance and Ser-
vice.
2. How Christ May Be Born Anew in
Each of Us.
January. — Measuring Ourselves and Our
Work.
1. Good Tests for Officers and Teachers.
2. Our Work Measured by Approved
Standards.
February. — Creating Missionary Enthu-
siasm.
1. The Church School and Missions.
2. How Create the Missionary Spirit.
March. — Preparing for Evangelistic In-
gathering.
1. A Study of Spiritual Awakening and
Conversion.
2. Bringing our Class Members to Christ.
85
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
April. — Improving School Music.
1. Music as a Medium of Worship.
2. The Kind of Songs We Ought to
Teach.
May. — Evaluating Special Days and
Programs.
1. Their Purpose and Educational
Worth.
2. Children's Day, Fourth of July,
Temperance Sunday.
June. — Making Ready for Vacation
Months.
1. Opportunities for Self and Profes-
sional Development.
2. Providing Substitute Workers.
July. — Summer-time Planning.
1. The Summer Contest
2. Hot Weather Attendance plans.
August. — Vacation Days.
1. The Annual School Picnic.
2. Keeping in Touch with Vacationites.
86
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Advantages. — Few of us can imagine
all the advantages accruing from such a
carefully prepared and faithfully observed
program. Negatively, it will keep the
school out of unseemly ruts, prevent work-
ing at cross-purposes and minimize indi-
vidualism. Positively, it will add fresh-
ness, make the cherished ideal of leaders
common property of the group and foster
team-work. It will promote unity and
continuity, harmony and efficiency. It will
free the school of a legion of pedagogical
blunders and enable it to enter the prom-
ised land of achievement,
87
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
THE WORKERS' LIBRARY
A Workers' Library is a valuable asset
to any school, and through the Workers'
Conference may be made of practical
value to the workers.
There was never a time in the history
of the Sunday school when so many excel-
lent books were available for every worker
in the school. The best of methods, tried
out in the laboratory of experience, are
now in book form, and no worker is doing
full justice to his work until he has made
himself familiar with the best in religious
educational literature. The Workers'
Library brings the books needed for best
work within reach of the worker.
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
A Workers' Library can be built up
gradually. It is not necessary to wait
until a large number of books can be ob-
Worker's Library
WALNUT HILLS CHRISTIAN
CHUBCH.SCHOOL
ONONNAn
«~i br
o_ uu
■frr.Vr'rt— :*
4»MA. 11-11
tained. The library can be started with
half a dozen books, or even less. The im-
portant thing is to get one started and to
90
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Worker's Library
WALNUT HILLS CHRISTIAN
CHURCH-SCHOOL
CINCINNATI
Read by
Date finished
1
2
3
4
3
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
keep in circulation such books as comprises
it, though they be but few.
91
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Various plans may be used to interest
the workers in reading such books as are
necessary to a larger understanding of
their work.
One school has prepared a label provid-
ing for the signatures of twelve names. A
label is pasted on the inside cover of every
book in the Workers' Library. Each reader
is asked to sign his name on the label and
the date when the reading was begun and
also finished. Another school encourages
the readers of the books to prepare brief
reviews, offering a reward in the form of
a book to any one handing in five reviews.
Still another has a prepared set of ques-
tions, which each reader is asked to an-
swer in connection with the book read.
The plan of studying and reviewing new
method books at the Workers' Conference
is an excellent means of stimulating study
and developing interest.
92
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Another plan is to call for reports at
the Workers' Conference of the number
of books read by the workers during the
month, and honor recognition accorded.
The right kind of librarian will prove
a valuable aid in building up the Work-
ers' Library and in encouraging workers
to make good use of it.
"Thy will to do, Thy work to make
More forceful on this fallen earth;
Thy love in some lone heart to leave;
Thy word to give where spirits grieve;
To teach a downcast soul its worth;
Into some fettered soul to take
Thy freeing power; for some one's sake
To give of self as Thou didst give —
For such a mission let me live ! ' '
03
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Two Workers
"I am working for God," ho said;
And proudly he lifted his head.
< ' There is much to do
In this world of sin;
The workers are few;
It is late to begin;
But we who are willing must fill each hour
With our deeds of valor and words of power
As we work for God."
ill would work with God," he said,
And humbly he bowed his head.
1 ' I must quiet be
Before His throne
Till His will for me
Is fully known.
For the plan is His, and His the power;
I need but to follow Him hour by hour
As I work with God."
— May Field McKean.
94
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
APPENDIX
A WORKERS' CONFERENCE DEMON-
STRATION
One of the most effective methods of creating
interest and enthusiasm in any phase of Sunday-
school work is by means of a demonstration, show-
ing "just how to do it.'' The following demon-
stration of a ** working' ' Workers' Conference, en-
titled "The Heart of the Sunday School," was
prepared by Paul B. Bains, and has been used
effectively to show how helpful a rightly conducted
Workers' Conference can be. The demonstration is
suitable for presentation at any gathering of Sun-
day-school workers.
"The Heart of the Sunday School" was written
in response to a long-felt need for a plan to visual
ize the better methods of the modern church school.
In reproducing an average Workers' Conference in
Act I., there has been no intention to burlesque
the situation; neither has there been any effort
to provide light entertainment in any succeeding
scene. The entire demonstration, however, has proven
intensely interesting and helpful to hundreds of
Bible-school workers who have either witnessed it
or taken part in it.
7 95
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
When presenting the demonstration, it would be
well to have printed programs, presenting the cast,
the acts and scenes, indicating what co-operation is
expected of the audience. It will lend interest to the
program if an orchestra can be secured to provide
overtures, and to accompany the songs forming a
part of Acts II. and III.
The entire program should not take longer than
one hour and a quarter. The demonstration has-
been prepared to help train the players in the tasks
of the various Bible-school workers, as well as to
instruct and entertain those who may constitute an
audience. Parts should be assigned well in advance,
and the demonstration rehearsed before presenting
to the public. Each one taking part should put as
much life and enthusiasm into the part as possible.
The demonstration can be shortened, if desired, by
carefully omitting or cutting down certain parts?
which will not materially affect the general plan.
Certain local touches may be introduced, if desired,
to give reality to the demonstration.
An efficiently conducted Workers' Conference will
mean more to the success of the church school than
any other one thing. It has been variously desig-
nated as the " water-tank, ' ' " coaling station,"
11 dynamo' ' and "heart" of the school. It cer-
tainly can be made to be the organ by which church-
Bchool workers might come,
96
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Fvrst, into a vital personal relationship with God.
Secondly, into co-operative fellowship with one
another in Christian service.
Thirdly, into fuller knowledge of the most ap-
proved educational methods.
Copies of "The Heart of the Sunday School,' »
in leaflet form, can be secured from the Northern
District Bible School Office, 2605 Harney St., Oma-
ha, Neb., at 25 cents per copy, $2.25 per dozen,
$15 per hundred,
97
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
"THE HEART OF THE SUNDAY
SCHOOL"
(The Workers' Conference Is the Heart of the
Sunday School.)
CHARACTERS
1. Bro. Modern Enterprise New Pastor
2. Mr. Isur Doolittle General Supt.
3. Mr. Steady Progress New Supt. of Instruction
4. Mr. Abel Leader Chorister
5. Mrs. John Longnecker,
Hostess (Intermediate Teacher)
6. Mr. John Longnecker,
Host (Women's Class Teacher)
7. Miss Laura June Primary Teacher
8. Mrs. I. M. Pessimus. Junior Teacher
9. Mr. District Goforth Bible -school Specialist
10. Mrs. Putnam Down General Sec'y
11. Mr. Careful Eecords New Eecording Sec'y
12. Mr. A. Bundant Zollars New Financial Sec'y
13. Miss. S. S. Grades,
Absentee Supt. (Classification Sec'y)
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
14. Mr. Hugh Vision,
Perspective (or Extension) Supt.
15 Mrs. Christian Messenger Missionary Supt.
16. Mr. Tend Toit Attendance Secretary
ACTS
ACT I.— HEART TROUBLE.
Workers' Conference in the Longnecker home —
THE WRONG WAY.
ACT II.— BUILDING UP THE SYSTEM.
Scene 1 — (Prescription) Visit of Sunday-school
Specialist, following Rally Day.
Scene 2 — (Taking the Medicine) A worth-while
Workers' Conference six months later— THE RIGHT
WAY.
ACT III.— RECUPERATED AND ON THE AC-
TIVE LIST.
Opening services of one of the departments of
the church school one year later — MODEL PRO-
GRAM.
ACT I.— HEART TROUBLE
Scene 1
Workers' Conference in Longnecker home — THE
WRONG WAY.
Furnishings
Represent parlor of a home with a few dining-
room chairs in addition to customary furniture.
100
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Time
A Tuesday evening, ten days after the regular
time. This scene should not take more than about
twenty minutes.
(Host seated at library table, reading paper. En-
ter Hostess, with an inquiring attitude.)
Mrs. Longnecker — I declare, John, I wish I knew
how many were coming to-night. I just bought one
quart of ice-cream; that may not be enough, but I
didn't want to buy more than we needed.
Mr. Longnecker — If there is any left over, we
can eat it, I suppose. You needn't worry about not
having enough. There won't be more than a hand-
ful out. I sometimes wonder if these meetings do
any good; few ever come, and, as far as I can
see, there isn't much to show for it in the Sunday
school.
Mrs. L. — But we can 't talk about that now. They
are supposed to meet here to-night. Anyhow, we
could do more if Bro. Enterprise would spend more
time on his sermons, than running around trying
to scare up new-fangled schemes which won't work.
But he is young yet; maybe he will live long enough
to learn how to build up a church like old Bro.
Eoberts, Martin, Porter, and men like those, who
knew how to preach. They didn't have to have
parties and socials and this and that — and, too,
think of it! my girls have gotten the same notion
in their heads. Sunday they were talking about a
101
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
class "hike"! Well, we will just wait and see
what this all will come to.
(Door bell rings.)
Mrs. L. — There goes the bell; they are here al-
ready, and I still have my apron on. (She hur-
ries into the adjoining room, while Mr. Longnecker
opens the door.)
(Enter Mrs. I. M. Pessimus.)
Mrs. Pessimus — Good evening, Mr. Longnecker.
Mr. L. — Good evening, Mrs. Pessimus.
(Enter Mrs. Longnecker.)
Mrs. L. — Howdy do, Mrs. Pessimus f Come right
in here and take off your wraps. (Walk into room,
talking as they go. Mr. L. returns to his newspaper.
After a moment the ladies return to the parlor, and
talk as they take their seats.)
Mrs. P. — Don't expect there will be many out
to-night, do you?
Mrs. L. — No, I guess not; the last time the meet-
ing was held here, only a few came.
Mrs. P. — Seems too bad we can't get folks out.
People nowadays are interested in everything else
but church work. Now, when I was a girl, nearly
everybody went to church. If people would only do
their duty!
Mrs. L. — There is so much going on that I felt
it would hardly be worth while having a meeting;
but Bro. Enterprise thought we should not postpone
it any longer.
102
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
(Door bell rings. Mrs. L. answers, while the other
two chat.)
(Enter Miss June.)
Miss June — Hello, are we all here?
Mrs. P. — Everybody but the preacher, Mrs. Put-
ram Down, Mr. Doolittle, Bro. Morris and a few
others.
Miss June — It is not quite time to begin. We
can give them nearly five minutes yet. Some of
them, at least, will surely be here.
(Conversation on current events. After a mo-
ment the door bell rings; Mrs. Longneeker answers.)
(Enter Mrs. Down.)
Mrs. Down — Hello, everybody (glancing at clock) !
Well, I just did get here in time. Where are the
rest of the folks?
Mrs. P. — Likely they forgot about it.
Mrs. L. — Did you forget your book?
Mrs. D. — No; but since I didn't receive any min-
utes of the last meeting, I didn't; think it would be
necessary to bring it. (Leaves room to remove
wraps, chatting the while with Mrs. Longneeker,
then re-enters parlor.)
Mrs. D. — Who took the minutes of the last meet-
ing?
Mrs. P. — Miss Merrill took them down, and I
guess she won't be here to-night. School-teachers
are busy people, you know. It's too bad you weren 't
here yourself.
103
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Mrs. D. — Let me see — what was it? Oh, yes,
Mr. Down came home that evening, and, since he
is out on the road so much, I felt that my duty
was at home. I am sorry I did not know who had
the minutes.
Miss June — We are glad that you could come to-
night, anyway.
Mrs. P. — It is ten minutes past eight, and neither
our preacher nor superintendent is here. That was
quite a speech Bro. Enterprise made last Sunday
about the meeting, wasn't it? He talked as if this
was the most important meeting of the church.
What was that he said about the heart?
Miss J. — He said that the Workers' Conference
was the heart of the Bible school. I wonder just
what he meant.
(Group conversation on every subject but the
work of the church; 8:15 door bell rings, and Mr.
Longnecker answers.)
(Enter Mr. Isur Doolittle.)
Mr. Doolittle (with nod to Mr. L. ; he shakes his
hand, and says to all) — Good evening, folks. 1
must be a little late. How is everybody? (He
looks around, smiling graciously at all.) How is
our hostess to-night?
Mrs. L. — Very well, thank you. How is Mrs.
Doolittle?
Mr. Doo. — I guess she's all right, although she
has been complaining a little. It seems she has
104
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
never fully recovered from the effects of the influ-
enza which she had last winter. (Addressing him-
self to all) : It is strange that Bro. Enterprise
hasn't come; he seemed especially anxious that we
should not postpone our meeting any longer. We
are ten days overtime now. (They all talk at once,
while Mr. Doolittle seats himself.)
(After brief conversation, Mr. Doolittle arises.)
Mr. Doo. — It is nearly 8:30. If the meeting will
come to order, I guess we might as well begin, and
maybe Bro. Enterprise will come later.
Miss June — I am sure that he is coming; he must
have been unexpectedly delayed.
Mr. Doo. — Mrs. Down, will you read the minutes
of the last meeting?
Mrs. Down — I was not here at the last meeting.
I understand Miss Merrill took the minutes; but
she is not here, and they have not been given to me.
They should be put in the book.
Mr. Doo. — They can be read at the next meeting.
"What is the first piece of business to be attended to?
(A brief silence.)
Mrs. D. (rising) — I have been thinking that we
ought to have a new secretary's book. The one I
now have has been used for several years, and when
I received it it was about full and the minutes
were all mixed up.
Mr. L. (remaining seated) — What would such a
book cost?
105
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Mrs. D. — I don't know. I should imagine about
75 cents or $1.
Mrs. P. — Mr. Doolittle, how much have we in the
treasury ?
Mr. Doo. — I don 't remember just how much there
is now. Mr. Morris is not here; but it seems to
me there is a balance of nearly $20, or thereabouts.
Does anybody know?
Miss J. — I believe the balance is now $18.66,
since paying for our last supply of lesson helps.
Mr. L. — I move that the secretary be allowed to
buy a new book, and that it be paid for by the
Sunday school.
Somebody — I second the motion.
Mr. Doo — It has been moved and seconded that —
how did you state that motion, Mr. Longnecker?
Mr. L. — That the secretary be allowed to buy a
new book at the expense of the Sunday school.
Mr. Doo. — You have all heard the motion. All
those in favor of this, make it known by rising.
(All rise.)
Mr. Doo. — It is so ordered. (All become seated.)
Is there any other business?
(Another brief silence.)
Miss June — Yes. Not long ago I read in a
paper that leaflets and special helps on Sun-
day-school work could be obtained, for a few cents,
by writing to (mention your State or district)
Bible-school office. I sent for leaflets on Primary
106
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
work, which I found simply splendid. These leaflets
offered several suggestions, which would greatly
help mo in my work, if the school would make it
possible for me to carry them out. One of these
suggested two things which I have wanted for a
long time — a separate room of our own, which wo
can make attractive for the children, and small
chairs, so that their feet can touch the floor. Of
course, it would cost something ; but don 't you think
we could at least fix up such a room in the base-
ment, with wooden floors and plenty of light to
make it comfortable and cheerful? For my part,
I am willing to do whatever I can to help make
this possible. I would like to know what the rest
of you think about it.
Mrs. P. — It seems to me that it would be mighty
expensive to attempt to fix up such a place, and,
anyway, such a plan would take them out of the
auditorium. I believe the children ought to be
made to attend the preaching service of the church.
You can't get them to do that if you let them get
in the habit of meeting some place else. As for the
chairs, it is my opinion that we have more chairs
now than we are using, and I don't know but that
the chairs we have are better for the children than
smaller ones. If they had smaller ones, they would
make more noise shuffling their feet on the floor
and moving the chairs around. There is still plenty
of room where they are now.
107
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
(Door bell rings; Mr. L. answers.)
(Enter Bro. Enterprise.)
Bro. Enterprise — Good evening, Bro. Longnecker.
Good evening, everybody.
Mr. Doo. — Glad you got here, Bro. Enterprise;
you are just in time.
Bro. Ent. — You must all pardon my unavoidable
delay. I regret very much that I am late; but just
as I was leaving the dinner table, I received a phone
message that Sam Kennett had been injured at the
f>hops, and they wanted me to take him to his home.
It was not necessary for him to be sent to the hos-
pital, since it was only a fracture. I see, however,
that you are getting along very nicely without me,
so just go on with the meeting.
(He seats himself in a proffered chair.)
Mr. Doo. — We were just discussing a suggestion
of Miss June's, about having a separate room and
small chairs for the infant class. Miss June seems
to think that the class ought not to meet in the
main auditorium. What do you think about it?
Bro. Ent. — Of course, I don't know just what the
discussion has been, but I think that is a mighty
fine suggestion. The Primary children should have
their own room, where they can learn to sing songs
better adapted to their age, and where a worship
program may be planned for them in which they
may have a part. That is certainly the way used
by all up-to-date schools.
108
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Mrs. D. — But where will we find the room? All
we have besides the main room are the two small
rooms back of the auditorium, and the Junior boys
are meeting in one of them now.
Mrs. P. — There is only the one class, is there not,
Laura?
Miss J. — Yes, we now have only one; but the
class should be divided into about three. It is
almost impossible to hold their attention when they
are all there. I can not get close to them, because
they are seated on those long benches. Then, too
(looking at Mr. Longnecker with a smile), Mr.
Longnecker, while teaching the ladies' class, talks
so loudly and makes so many gestures that they
watch him most of the time.
Mrs. P. — Why not let the Junior boys have the
choir's place on the platform, and give their room
to these children?
Miss J. — Impossible! That would be no better
than we now have, and much worse for the Junior
boys. Those rooms are entirely too small. Even
though we Should divide the Primary class into
only two classes, each one would be larger than the
class of boys, and too large for either one of those
rooms.
Bro. Ent. — I fear Miss June is right in what she
says. We need more classrooms. In fact, the ideal
way would be to have a separate classroom for each
class in the school; but, of course, that is not pos-
109
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
sible now. I suggest, however, that we consider
the advisability of building an annex to the rear,
which will provide ample room for all classes from
four years of age to eleven or twelve, including the
Beginners, Primary and Junior classes we now have,
and those we hope to add in the near future. Pro-
vision might be made for the Intermediate girls,
also. This addition could be so arranged that it
might be entered from the church room through
doors leading off from the smaller adjoining rooms.
Such an arrangement would take care of our needs
for awhile at least. I am hoping that some day
we may have a new church building, providing mod-
ern equipment for the church school. But if we
find we can not have an annex, possibly the base-
ment might be made to serve the purpose by put-
ting in a wooden floor and fixing up the walls. My
own judgment, however, is that the first suggestion
is by far the better.
Mrs. L. — Perhaps we should have more room;
but either suggestion would be expensive, and might
encourage the children to stay away from the church
services. I don't believe that an annex or anything
else would keep my girls from giggling!
Mrs. P. — It will not be long before school is out,
and vacation begins. You know what that means.
During the summer months, we usually have only
about half of our regular attendance, and it seems
to me that we can wait for these classrooms. It
110
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
is very likely that during the summer these classes
will not be so large. In winter it is too cold, and
in summer it is quite too hot. When the parents
offer such excuses, what can you expect of the
children?
Mr. Doo. — I can hardly see, myself, how we can
do anything now, and I suggest that we keep this
in mind, and probably by the next meeting we can
decide what is the best thing to do. (Looking at
the clock.) I see that it is getting pretty late;
I wonder if there is anything else?
Bro. Ent. — I hope it will be possible to provide
rooms for these little folks in the near future. We
want to get them here, and keep them. If we pro-
vide attractive rooms, there will be no doubt but
that the classes will grow larger. (Pause.) How
many folks would be interested in an indoor picnic,
to bring our dinners here, and talk over the prob-
lems of our church school? We could make the
occasion a sort of a reunion and Bible-school rally.
(Some folks look interested and pleased.)
Mrs. L. — Just what do you mean, Bro. Enterprise?
Bro. Ent. — I mean that some day, it might be
Sunday, or it might not, each family will bring a
basket for the noon meal. After the dinner, we
could have a speaker and a discussion of our work.
We might be able to secure our district Bible-school
secretary to be with us. I am sure that would cost
nothing more than his railroad fare and entertain-
8 111
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
merit while here. Without giving way to frivolity,
we could make much of the social feature. Each
ought to know every member of the church, and
every member- should be interested in the Bible
school. What do you all think of it? What do
you think, Mrs. Down?
Mrs. D. — I think that would be all right.
Bro. Ent. — Mrs. Pessimus?
Mrs. P. — We are pretty apt to get a crowd that
way. Folks will go most omywhere to get some-
thing to eat. It might be all right.
Bro. Ent. — Miss June?
Miss J. — I think that's a good idea! We need
more meetings of a social nature, that we may
become better acquainted. I am sure the young
folks will like the idea.
Bro. Ent. — Mrs. Longnecker?
Mrs. L. — Whatever the rest say.
Bro. Ent. — Mr. Longnecker?
Mr. L. — We might try it.
Bro. Ent. — Well, then, suppose we try it, and, if
you say so, I will write to Bro. Goforth, and see if
he can come. What do you think, Bro. Doolittle?
(Minister sits down. Brief pause ensues.)
Mr. Doo. — Well, we've never had anything like
that before; but if it will create more interest, I
am for it. Would you ladies be willing to provide
the eats?
(A lively discussion follows.)
112
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Mr. Doo. — Just a minute. Maybe we ought to
take a vote on it.
Mrs. B. — I move we have an indoor picnic, as
suggested, and that Bro. Enterprise write to Bro.
Goforth and see if he can be with us.
Somebody — I second it.
Mr. Boo. — Mrs. Bown has moved — well, you have
all heard the motion — all in favor of it make it
known by standing.
(A lively, but unbusinesslike, discussion of plans
follows.)
(The hostess then secures quiet, and announces
that she has invited a friend (or friends) to sing
a solo (or duet).)
Song — Any song may be used, preferably one in
keeping with the pessmistic spirit Of the meeting.
Mrs. L. — If you will come into the dining-room,
we will serve light refreshments. (All start talking
about eating again, as they leave the platform.)
Curtain
113
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
ACT II.— BUILDING UP THE SYSTEM
Scene 1 — Prescription
(This scene should not take more than ten to
twelve minutes.)
Time
The day after the picnic, the Sunday-school spe-
cialist having been urged to stay over two or three
days to discuss the local work.
Furnishings
Several benches or rows of chairs placed side-
ways toward the audience. A piano, table (upon
which books and leaflets will . be placed) , and a
blackboard.
Setting
The Sunday-school specialist conducting a con-
ference in the church. He gives a short talk on
the "Workers' Conference," which he calls "The
Heart of the Church School." The heart is an
organ of our physical body which pumps blood
114
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
through the veins and arteries to build up worn-out
tissue. The Workers' Conference is an organ of
the church school to send a knowledge of Christ
and His Spirit by means of plans and methods
throughout the body of Christ (the church), the
community, and the whole world. The following
model program should be outlined on the black-
board, and briefly explained by the speaker as
a part of his address:
SUGGESTIVE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
PROGRAM
(To be written on blackboard.)
1. Devotional Period
(Ten to fifteen minutes.)
Devotional Theme — " Pressing Forward' ' (Phil.
2: 7-14).
1. Moment of silent prayer;
2. An evening prayer.
3. Devotional hymn.
4. Appropriate Scripture reading, or quotations
of Scripture on the theme by members.
5. Special music.
2. Business Period
(Not more than fifteen minutes.)
1. Reading of minutes of previous meeting.
2. Statement of order of day.
115
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
3. Recording Secretary's attendance report.
4. Financial Secretary's report.
5. Classification (Absentee Supt.) Secretary's re?
port.
6. Corresponding Secretary's report.
7. Missionary Superintendent's report.
8. Extension superintendent's report.
9. Reports of committees (a), (b), (c), etc.
10. Report of Superintendent of instruction.
All reports should be brief, and in writing.
3. Conference Period
(Twenty to thirty minutes.)
Conference Theme — "The Formulation of Defi-
nite Aims and a Program for Carrying Them Out."
1. Children's Division Workers meet in one room.
2. Young People's Division Workers meet in an-
other room.
3. Adult Division Workers meet in separate room.
These divisional conferences are to be presided
over by their respective superintendents. The pur-
pose is to discuss department porblems, and plan
a program of work for the ensuing month. A brief
report should be prepared by each department, to
be presented at the general Workers' Conference,
stating work done and work planned.
4. Reassembly for reports from Divisional Super-
intendents.
5. Discussion of immediate school problems.
116
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
6. Open conference on theme of the evening, with
presentation of plans.
4. Educational Period
(Twenty minutes.)
Suggestions.
1. Book review, or
2. Current events bearing on task of the church.
3. Model lesson.
4. Eeport of one who has visited some other school.
5. Speaker from some other school.
6. Stereopticon slides on special phases of the
work.
7. Convention reports.
8. Tests or drills.
(The speaker might be interrupted occasionally
by a question, indicating interest in the subject,
and to give the effect of a conference. Upon com-
pletion of the talk, every one acts very enthusiastic,
and some one should exclaim : ' ' That is just what
our school needs l'f)
Curtain
117
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Scene 2 — Taking the Medicine
Setting
A Workers' Conference in same room as Scene 1.
THE EIGHT WAY. Secretary seated at the table.
Superintendent holds copy of carefully prepared
program.
Furnishings
Same as Scene 1.
Time
Beginning promptly at time called (7:30). A
regular Workers' Conference night, about three
months after the time of Scene 1. This scene should
take about twenty minutes.
(Curtain rises with fifteen or twenty workers
talking in groups about church work.)
(The Workers ' Conference is usually preceded by
a conference supper. The presiding officer may
make some reference to ' ' the supper which we have
so greatly enjoyed, all thanks to the Loyal Philathea
class, who acted as caterers," or in some other
way indicate that the group had just partaken of
118
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
a social meal together. If the platform is large
enough, the workers may be seated around the table,
and the conference conducted thus.)
Mr. Progress, new superintendent (rapping on
table) — The meeting will please come to order.
(Quiet immediately follows.)
Mr. Prog. — Bro. , will you lead us in prayer
and thanksgiving to God?
(If a player is chosen to lead this prayer, address
by real name. The audience should participate in
the devotional period, since there should be no other
program for the evening.)
(Some one, previously chosen, comes forward, un-
announced, and prepares to conduct a brief devo-
tional period.)
Devotional Leader — The theme for our conference
this evening is ' ' Pressing On. ' ' Let us now sing, as
a hymn of praise, one verse of No. .
(All sing reverently.)
Devotional Leader — Beads distinctly and with
feeling, Phil. 3 : 7-14.
Special Music — Any inspirational song may be
used. If a quartette can furnish a number, it will
add to the attractiveness of the program.
Mr. Prog. — Mr. Keeords, will you please read the
minutes of the May meeting?
Mr. Becords (comes to the front, and stands at
his place by the table. He reads, speaking dis-
tinctly, the following report) :
119
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Recording Secretary's Report
The Educational Department of the
church school, held its regular monthly Work-
ers' Conference in the prayer-meeting room of
the church, the last Thursday evening in May.
The Superintendent of Instruction, as chairman,
presided over the meeting. After a devotional
program, conducted by Mrs. Down, the minutes of
the previous meeting were read and approved.
The following reports were presented in writing,
were approved, and are on file with your secretary:
1. The Recording Secretary — (Reported gain of
twenty in average attendance over preceding month.)
2. The Financial Secretary — (Debt paid; balance
of $37.23 in church treasury to credit of Sunday-
school fund).
3. Special Committee on Equipment — (Announced
purchase of three dozen chairs and one sand-table).
4. Committee on Literature reported conservation
of material and adoption of Intermediate Graded
Lessons.
5. Superintendent of Instruction expressed his ap-
preciation of the cordial co-operation of the workers.
Oral reports were received from:
1. The Classification Secretary.
2. The Corresponding Secretary.
3. The Missionary Superintendent, who reported
thirty-three new subscriptions to our missionary
paper.
120
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
4. The Extension Superintendent, who recom-
mended that we study ' i A Survey of Religious Edu-
cation in the Local Church,' ' by W. C. Bower.
It was moved and seconded that all other matters
of detail business should hereafter be referred to
the Cabinet; that their actions should be reported
by the superintendent, subject to the approval of
the Workers' Conference. The motion carried
unanimously by acclamation.
After a fifteen-minute period, during which the
divisional conferences were held in separate rooms,
the Workers' Conference reassembled, and each di-
visional superintendent made an oral report of the
progress, present status and future needs of their
respective divisions. Each group reported its ap-
proval of our new Conference program.
Mr. Dudley, from the Olive Street Church, gave
a twenty-minute talk on ' ' Modem Methods of Our
Teaching Task. ' ' He pointed out that the teaching
of God's word is a common task in which all
churches can unite, especially in regard to the best
and approved educational methods of to-day. He
recommended the conversational method of teach-
ing for young people.
After a vote of thanks had been extended Mr.
Dudley for his address, a motion to adjourn was
carried, and a benediction was pronounced by Bro.
Enterprise. Respectfully submitted,
Mr. Careful Records, Rec. Sec
121
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Mr. Prog. — If there are no corrections, the min-
utes will stand approved as read. We will now
hear the report of our Attendance Secretary.
Attendance Secretary (reads distinctly the fol-
lowing report, and then gives copy to the Recording
Secretary) :
Attendance Secretary's Report
Your Attendance Secretary begs leave to submit
the following attendance report for the month of
May:
1. The total attendance was 581
A gain of 59 over previous month.
2. Average weekly attendance _ 147
A gain of 15 over previous month.
3. Average attendance same month last year 78
A gain of 69, or 88 per cent.
A statement of departments is as follows:
May Gain over Gain over
Average Last Same Mo.
Department. Enrollment. Attendance. Month. Last Yr.
Cradle Roll 12
Beginners _ 12 7 1 7
Primary 55 38 1 (loss) 13
Junior 24 19 6 9
Intermediate 20 16 3 9
Senior 18 11 3 2
122
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Young People's 25 16 1 16
Adult 63 37 1 5
Home 8 3 18
Total 237 147 15 69
(The above departmental attendance statement
should not be read with report at meeting. It is
given here merely for reference and as a sugges-
tive special help for departmental superintend-
ents.)
4. A Home Department member is counted pres-
ent when the lesson has been studied, an offering
made, and both reported before service begins.
5. The Primary Department had the largest av-
erage attendance this month.
6. The Junior Department had the greatest gain
in membership over last month.
7. The creation of the Young People's Depart-
ment, since their average attendance is sixteen, gives
them the honor of having the largest gain over
same month last year.
Respectfully submitted,
Mr. Tend Toit, Attendance Sec.
Mr. Prog. — If there are no corrections, the report
will stand approved as read. We will now hear the
report of our Financial Secretary, Mr. Zollars.
Mr. Z. — (Reads distinctly the following written
report, and then gives the copy to the secretary.)
123
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Financial Secretary's Report
Keceipts.
Carried forward $37.23
Beginners Dept. _ $0.73
Primary Dept ~ 3.80
Junior Dept - 3.92
Intermediate Dept 4.61
Senior Dept „ ~ 3.38
Young People's Dept 2.67
Adult Dept — 8.46
(These details need not be read in
the meeting unless requested. These are
given here as a suggestive help.)
Total Sunday Offerings $29.67
Gain, $5.91 over last month.
Special Offering _ _ 5.00
From Contingent Fund of Church. 25.00
Grand Total _- $96.90
The average weekly offering is $7.42, or 5c. per
member, a gain of ^c. over last month.
The average weekly offering last year was $2.73,
or 3%c. per member, showing a gain of $4.69, or
l%c. per member.
The Adult Department gave the largest amount,
but the Home Department gave the most per mem-
ber.
124
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
Disbursements.
Blackboard _ '. $11.00
Postage and Printing 9.25
Balance on Literature Debt 73.38
Total Disbursements $93.63
Balance in School Fund of Church Treas-
ury 3.27
We have made no effort to give a detailed state-
ment, but such may be had at any time desired.
While our balance is not large, it is a balance on
hand after our two-year debt has been paid in full.
We have used the Duplex Envelope system in the
Children's Division nearly six weeks. It is just be-
ginning to show favorable results. It teaches the
children to give systematically. They are learning
to give as much for others as for themselves. It
seems to me that our great need now is some plan
to get the adults to give in proportion to their abil-
ity. I recommend that we start a program of edu-
cation on tithing, to be conducted by Bro. Enter-
prise. Eespectfully submitted,
Mr. Zollars, Financial See.
Mr. Prog. — This is a good report. Mr. Zollars
not only keeps an accurate record of all moneys,
but since taking this position he has constantly
shown us, as he has in this report to-night, what we
may learn from figures. The Duplex Envelope sys-
125
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
tern in the Children's Division is proving to be quite
a success. I am glad that our attention is now
called to the need for more education along the line
of liberal giving among the adults in the Bible
school.
Mr. Vision — I move that this report be accepted
as read, and that the recommendations be placed
upon the minutes.
(Motion will be seconded and carried by a vote.)
Mr. Prog. — May we now hear the report of our
Classification Secretary, or, as we have decided to
call this officer, our Absentee Superintendent?
Miss Grades — (reads distinctly the following re-
port, which contains a statement of some progress
in checking up on absentees, and some plans for
future work) :
Absentee Superintendent's Report
Your Absentee Superintendent begs leave to sub-
mit the following report for the month of May:
One new Primary class — teacher, Miss Ella Jones.
One new Senior class — teacher, Mr. Cordial.
One new Young People '& class — teacher, Mr. Loyal.
Enrollment at first of month 224
New members 18
Removals _._ 5
Net Increase _ __ 13
Present Enrollment _ 237
126
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
' * Follow-up Work. ' '
Personal calls 12
Phone calls 27
Letters or cards 9
Eeported calls 21
Eeported phone calls 11
Eeported letters or cards 32
Total Messages 112
Eespectfully submitted,
Miss S. S. Grades, Absentee Supt.
Mr. Prog. — This is an interesting ioport. When
Miss Grades accepted this position, our school was
■very poorly organized. When we tried to grade it
properly, we were confronted with the problem of
teachers. However, with the help of Bro. Enter-
prise and Mr. Vision, we have found some who have
agreed to teach. I am also happy to announce that
a class of seven will begin studying the New Stand-
ard Teacher-training Course at the Bible-school hour
next Sunday. So, then, we now have two training
classes, one for those who are now teaching, which
meets each Thursday night, and one for those who
are willing to prepare for future service in our
school, meeting on Sunday morning. These are all
steps in the right direction. If our plans are faith-
fully executed, we will soon have a well-graded,
well-equipped Bible school, which will lead many to
an acceptance of Jesus Christ as a Saviour, and will
9 127
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
help others in their Christian life. What is your
pleasure in regard to this report?
Mrs. Down (rising) — Mr. Chairman, I move that
the report be accepted, and filed with the Recording
Secretary.
(This motion will be seconded and properly acted
upon.)
Mr. Prog. — It seems to have been unanimous
Mrs. Down, would you tell us at this time what cor-
respondence you have had during the past month?
Mrs. D. — I have a letter from the Foreign Mis-
sionary Society, stating some definite needs. I have
read this letter to our Missionary Superintendent,
Mrs. Messenger. Likewise, a letter from our Dis-
trict Bible-school Secretary, calling our attention
to the fact that our school has not made an offering
for national missionary and Bible-school work. The
regular day is Thanksgiving Sunday, which came
before our work was reorganized; but now that
things are going along better than they used to, I
am sure we will want to give something to this work
before the missionary year closes.
Mrs. Mess. — An offering has been sent in since
the letter from the Missionary Society has been re-
ceived. It was the best offering we have ever made.
Of course, we must give something to Home Mis-
sions this year, because we want to have some part
in the whole task of the church. We are getting
well now. Our school used to have heart trouble;
128
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
it would pound on some things pretty hard, but it
did not grow as it should, because of lack of con-
sistent work along definite lines. We have never
given to home missionary work, but I am sure that
from now on we will support the whole task. Each
school that makes an offering to Foreign Missions,
Home Missions and Benevolence, is known as a
unanimous school. Since our heart action is be-
coming adjusted now, and we are at least normal,
there is no reason why we should not reach this aim.
Mr. V. — Of course we will, and, what is more, we
can become a standard school this year. We want
to be one of the standard schools, not only because
we will all enjoy being classed with those schools
which will receive special mention and recognition,
but also because a definite standard of this kind
helps us to grow symmetrically. Let us never for-
get that our chief object is to lead boys and girls,
and men and women, to an acceptance of Jesus
Christ, and to train them in Christian service. This
standard and all our methods are only a means to
the end. As Bro. Goforth said, they are the chan-
nels by which we may send the spirit of Christ
through the community and through the world.
Mr. Prog. — You are quite right in all that you
say; but I must ask that we keep close to the sub-
ject at hand. Mrs. Down was reporting correspon-
dence which referred to missionary offerings. We
have learned that as yet no home missionary offer-
129
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
ing has been mada What are your wishes in thia
regard?
Bro. Ent. — I move, Mr. Chairman, that we express
ourselves as unanimously in favor of lending sup-
port to all our organized missionary work. And,
further, that Mrs. Messenger, as our Missionary
Superintendent, be appointed as chairman of a
committee, consisting of Mr. Progress and Mr.
Vision, to offer recommendations for a systematic
method of missionary instruction and giving, so
that this school may have a part in every phase of
the missionary task of the church.
(This shall be voted upon in the proper manner.)
Mr. Prog. — May we now have a report from our
Missionary Superintendent?
Mrs. Messenger (brief oral report, mentioning
success in missionary instruction) — And I am glad
that we have taken definite and unanimous action,
expressing the desire to do our utmost in order to
fulfill the Great Commission.
Mr. Prog. — Mr. Vision, we would now like to
hear from you as our Extension Superintendent.
Extension Superintendent's Report
Your Extension Superintendent begs leave to
report that he recently met with a committee from
the Church Board, and together they are working
out a plan to encourage the attendance of the older
organized class members at the evening church ser-
130
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
vices. Wei hope to be able to report in detail at the
next conference.
I beg leave to recommend that we organize our
Intermediates and Seniors into separate depart-
ments, allowing each to be self-governing. These
two departments have been meeting together, be-
cause of lack of room; but we have secured the
use of a room in the annex, and separate depart-
ments are now practical.
I also recommend that we send four of our young
people to the Lake Geneva Training School, offering
the opportunity to the four who make the highest
record between now and the opening of the training
school.
(Report is acted upon.)
Mr. Prog. — Friends, we are learning to do things
right. It is a joy to work with people who have
a big vision and a program that is a challenge to
the best that the church can give. I wish now to
call your attention to a brief summary of our
month's work, and to offer a few recommendations.
(He reads a brief report he himself prepares.)
Mr. Long. — Mr. Chairman, I move that our super-
intendent's report be accepted and filed with the
secretary, and that we take steps to form definite
aims and a tentative program for the coming year's
work, as he suggests. It is understood that the
workers of each division are to work out the details
of their part of the program.
131
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
(This motion should be voted upon.)
Mr. Prog. — I believe that any other business there
may be can be referred to the Cabinet; unless there
is something else which shall come to our attention
here, we shall proceed with our program.
We will now have our divisional conferences.
The theme for discussion this month is, "The
Formulation of Definite Aims, and a Program to
Carry Them Out." We will reassemble promptly
within fifteen minutes.
(The conference divides into three groups; the
Adult Division workers remain on platform.)
Curtain Drawn for an Instant Only
(The workers reassemble, and hear brief reports
from the superintendents of the Children's, Young
People's and Adult Divisions. The Superintendent
of Instruction meanwhile is taking notes. Upon
completion of reports, he suggests definite aims for
the school for the coming year, including material
from reports given by divisional groups. After a
brief, but lively, discussion, the conference adopts
these aims.)
Mr. Prog. — We will now have the pleasure of
hearing an illustrated lecture on ' ' Boy Life. ' ■ Mr.
Eoy Wever, from Eapid Falls, is with us, and will
show us John L. Alexander's excellent stereopticon
slides. Let us retire to the main auditorium.
Curtain
132
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
ACT III.— RECUPERATED AND ON THE
ACTIVE LIST
In the model school, the departments, or divisions,
have their separate opening services. This fifteen-
minute MODEL WORSHIP PROGRAM is suitable
for the Young People's or Adult department.
Setting
No players on platform except the Superintendent
of Instruction, Mr. Steady Progress, the Chorister,
Mr. Abel Leader, and the Pianist. The audience
witnessing the play becomes the general assembly
of the department, and it should participate in the
singing and worship, as suggested in the opening
period of Act II., Scene 2. This information should
be inserted in any printed program prepared for
the occasion.
Furnishings
Platform and equipment, including piano; pos-
sibly blackboard with last Sunday's attendance re-
port by classes. No loose song-books or papers
133
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
should be on platform, pulpit or table; neatness
should prevail.
Time
Beginning promptly on time New Year's Sunday,
about one year from time of Act I.
Suggestive Program
Hymn — Some familiar selection within range of
average voices. Such songs as follow are always
appropriate for the school:
"More about Jesus I Would Know."
1 ' I Love to Tell the Story. ' >
1 ' True-hearted, Whole-hearted. ' '
1 ' Oh, Scatter Seeds of Loving Deeds. ' '
* ' Saviour, Like a Shepherd Lead Us. ' '
1 ' Jesus Calls Us O 'er the Tumult. ' '
Invocation — Bro. Modern Enterprise.
Responsive Reading — Led by the Superintendent,
Mr. Steady Progress.
Hymn — Led by Mr. Abel Leader.
Announcements by Mr. Progress — Friends, we are
entering into the new year as a school, better
equipped and larger in numbers than at any pre-
vious time in the history of the church. As we
turn our faces toward a new year of opportunity
for Christian service, I am sure that I voice the
feeling of all when I say that our chief concern is
that we may make our school truly efficient in its
teaching task, and we want our department to do
134
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
faithfully and well its part. By the splendid co-
operation and consecrated service of our faithful
•workers, we have made remarkable progress this
past year. However, we have merely recovered from
a spiritual apathy and an organic inefficiency which
has made progress impossible. Now that we have
recuperated, as it were, we have secured full posses-
sion of our forces, and are just now ready for real
work.
Reports and Announcements — (Reports should be
very brief — one comparing attendance for the day
with that of a year ago. The Interclass Committee
may announce a get-together social. The Recrea-
tional Committee may call for volunteers to form a
basket-ball team. The Personal Work Committee
may announce a prayer -meeting at some invalid's
home. )
Missionary Story — Mrs. Messenger (not more than
five minutes).
Missionary prayer by some one previously chosen.
(For workers in field mentioned in the story.)
Special music — By a soloist, quartet.
Class Assembly — Bell should ring immediately
when hymn is finished, and piano should continue
playing. Instead of this being the signal for classes
to assemble, as is usually the case, it will be taken,
on this occasion, to mean the completion of the play
and adjournment of the audience.
Curtain
135
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
A SUGGESTIVE LIST OF BOOKS FOR
THE WORKERS' LIBRARY
For Children's Division Workers:
The Unfolding Life. — Lamoreaux.
A Study of Child Nature. — Harrison.
The Pupil and the Teacher. — Weigle.
How to Tell Stories to Children. — Bryant.
Handwork in the Sunday School. — Littlefield.
What ShaU We Do Now ?— Canfield.
How to Conduct a Cradle Roll Department —
Curtiss.
How to Conduct a Beginners Department. — Lewis.
How to Conduct a Primary Department. — Water-
man.
How to Conduct a Junior Department. — Van
Voorhis.
Stories and Story Telling. — St. John.
The Beginners Department. — Oglevee.
The Beginners Worker and Work. — Beard.
The Primary Worker and Work. — Thomas.
The Junior Worker and Work. — Baldwin.
The Cradle Roll Department. — Sudlow.
The Juniors. — Baldwin.
The Dramatization of Bible Stories. — Miller.
137
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
For Young People's Division Workers:
The Youth and the Church. — Maus.
The Girl and Her Religion. — Slattery.
The Boy Problem. — Forbush.
Training the Boy. — McKeever.
The Secondary Division. — Alexander.
Organized for Service. — Alexander.
The Intermediate Department. — Foster.
The Teens and the Rural Sunday School. — Alex-
ander.
Training the Christian Reserves. — Ream.
Leaders of Girls. — Espey.
The Girl in Her Teens. — Slattery.
A Boy's Religion. — Hughes.
Just Over the Hill.— Slattery.
The Senior Boy. — Foster.
The Boy and the Church. — Foster.
Leadership Activities for Girls. — Moxey.
The Boy in the Sunday School. — Alexander.
Guiding Boys Over Fool Hill. — McKinney.
The Minister and the Boy. — Hoben.
Problems of the Intermediate and Senior Teach-
ers.— Foster.
Religious Education of Adolescents. — Richardson.
For Adult Division Workers:
The Teaching of Bible Classes. — See.
The Adult Worker and His Work. — Barclay.
138
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
101 Things to Do. — Moninger.
The Adult Class. — Pearee.
The Manhood of the Master. — Fosdick.
Adult Class Study.— Wood.
Adults in the Sunday School. — Bocard.
Methods of Reaching Men. — Kirby.
Recruiting the Bible Class. — Harrison.
Training for Personal Evangelism. — Harrison.
The Why and How of the Organized Class. —
Bomberger.
Social Activities for Men and Boys. — Chesley.
The Ideal Adult Class in the Sunday School. —
Wells.
For Borne Department Workers:
The Sunday School and the Home. — Brown.
The Home Department of To-day. — Stebbins.
The Home Department of the Sunday School. —
Forbes.
The Home Department. — Karnell.
Becreation :
Ice Breakers. — Geister.
Games for the Playground, Home, School and
Gymnasium. — Bancroft.
Camping and Outing Activities. — Cheley-Baker.
Games and Plays for Children. — Smith.
Camping for Boys. — Gibson.
Recreation and the Church. — Gates.
139
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
General :
The Church-school. — Athearn.
The Sunday School Organized for Service. —
Lawrance.
How to Eun a Little Sunday School. — Little-
field.
The School in the Modern Church. — Cope.
A National System of Education. — Athearn.
Religious Education in the Family. — Cope.
How to Conduct a Sunday School. — Lawrance.
The Present Day Sunday School. — Burroughs.
A Working Plan for the Church School. — Henry.
Principles and Ideals for the Sunday School. —
Burton and Matthews.
A Manual for Sunday School "Workers ' Confer-
ences.— Staebler.
Special Days in the Sunday School. — Lawrance.
Making the Old Sunday School New. — Miller.
How to Run a Little Sunday School. — Furgesson.
Sunday School Officers' Manual. — Brown.
Plans for Sunday School Evangelism. — Brown.
The Superintendent and His Work. — Brown.
The Training of Sunday School Teachers and
Officers.— McElfresh.
The Training Class. — Kearney.
Guide for Teachers of Training Classes. — Slattery.
Graded Social Service in the Sunday School. —
Hutchins.
140
THE WORKERS' CONFERENCE
The Graded Sunday School in Principle and Prac-
tice.— Meyer.
After the Primary, What? — McKinney.
How to Teach Eeligion. — Betts.
How to Become an Efficient Sunday School Teach-
er.— McKeever.
The Making of a Teacher. — Brumbaugh.
Talks to the Sunday School Teacher. — Weigle.
Learning to Teach from the Master Teacher. —
Marquis.
141
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