Pitts Theology Library Emory University Atlanta, Georgia 30322 The Hartford Collection 1975 v M I N U T B S COMMISSI OK ON MISSIONS Chicago Beach Hotel, Chicago, 113.„ January 24-26. 1923» The meeting was called to order at 2:00 P. M. by the Chairman, Rev. Rockwell H. Potter, who also led in prayer. In the absence of the Secretary at the opening of the session Rev. J. H. Grant was asked to act as Secretary pro tem. IT WAS VOTED that the Chairman appoint a Business Committee. The following were appointed: Messrs. Carter, Thayer, Mason, Grant, Elledge, Whittlesey and Beeoher. On recommendation of the Business Committee, IT WAS VOTED that the proposed docket be approved as the official docket, sub- ject to further changes on recommendation of the Business Committee and with the consent of the house at the suggestion of the Chairman* It was also VOTED on recommendation of the Business Committee that the members of the Executive Committee of the National Council who are not members of the Commission be invited to sit as corresponding members, and that pursuant to the recommendation of the Executive Committee the national officers of the Woman's Boards and W. H. M. F., as well as •state officers of these organizations, be invited to sit as corresponding members at this Annual Meeting without expense to the Commission, and that Mrs. Osbornson be authorized to certify to the Secretary the names of such representatives of the Woman's Boards and Mrs. Pearsall be authorized to certify the names of the 'Woman's Federation; also that the following persons be elected corresponding members for this meeting: Rev. J. L. Klibon Mr. Roger Leavitt Rev. James Et McConnell Rev. Harry R. Miles Mr. F. E. Reeve Rev. James B« Sargent (See "Exhibit I" for lists of corresponding members repres- enting the W. H. M. P. and the Woman's Boards.) The following rules were adopted for the general guidance of the Commission at its annual meeting: Rev. W. S. Beard Rev. Francis L. Cooper Rev. James C. Gregory Rev. John 0. Haarvig Mr, E. A. Harvey Rev. Ansel E. Johnson Officers: ~ The officers of the Commission shall be a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, Recording Secretary Page 2. and Treasurer, In addition to the General Secretary ex officio and the promotional staff. The four officers shall assume their duties on election and continue in office until their successors are elected. Committees: XT A Business Committee of five shall be appointed by theTTHaTrman in advance of the Annual Meeting. This Committee shall recommend a docket to the Commission and make recommenda- tion regarding such items of business as may be specifically referred to them or at their option. New items of business introduced on the floor shall be referred to the Business Committee, and if in their judgment considered pertinent, be given a place on the docket. The Commission shall always be free to call for business which the Committee does not place upon the docket. 2. The Nominating Committee of three shall be appointed by the Cbairman^to present nominations for Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Recording Secretary and Treasurer, for all committees called for in these rules and not otherwise provided for, and for such special officers and committees as from time to time shall be ordered. 3. A Committee on Promotional Program consisting of five persons shall be elected to consider the proposals for the promotional program, the election of the promotional staff and the budget necessary to finance the entire work of the Commission. 4. Special Committees. Other committees shall be appointed as ordered by the Commission and the Chairman shall feel free to name any committees which in his judgment should give preliminary attention to specific objects for report to the Commission at its Annual Meeting. Executive Sessions: At each Annual~"leeting an executive session shall be held attended only by voting members of the Commission for the consideration.of business in- troduced at that time, but particularly of business . scheduled for executive session by the Business Committee or referred to the executive session by the Commission itself. FILLING VACANCIES: It was announced that the following had been nominated to fill vacancies: Northern California, Rev. Thomas T. Giffen, Route Cc, Fresno, California; T/isconsin, Rev. Charles H« Beale, 2103 Gr and Avenue, Milw auke e. Page 3, VOTED that the session of Thursday evening, January 25th, be an executive session and that action on Items 12, 13 (a) (d) and (g), 14 (b), (c) and (d) in the proposed docket be reserv- ed for this session, with the understanding that decisions reached shall be reported to the session of Friday morning, when recommendations would be possible. Furthermore, that on recommendation of the Eusiness Committee or by action of the Commission, other items of business may be referred to this session. On recommendation of the Business Committee the following votes were passed: THAT the Nominating Committee be requested to present the names of five persons, including one superintend- ent and one woman as a committee to collaborate with the General Secretary in preparing for recommendation to state conferences, associations'and churches a standard process of arriving at apportionments with suggestions as to variations, and to report to the Executive Committee or the next Annual Meeting of the Commission, and that the endeavor be to secure a committee which can meet without great expense and give thoroughgoing consideration to this import- ant question. THAT the executive staff and the Executive Committee be requested to issue a carefully prepared guide book for treasurers of benevolence, with comprehensive ex- pianations of the apportionment plan, the processes of division, the relation to the total budget of the different departments of the church, and with a direct- ory of officers to whom remittances may be made, in- eluding the listing of central offices to which money may be sent in bulk for division, accompanied by a blank form for careful instructions to the central treasury as to division of remittances. THAT the second Sunday in December be recommended to the state conferences and to the churches as the day for the Every Member Canvass, and that promotional plans of the Commission on Missions be timed to this date • THAT the Promotional Secretaries of the several Societies be requested to confer together regarding the desirability of a change in the rates of Con- ditional Gifts in any particulars which may seem de- sirable to them, but especially with a view to meet- ing the more favorable terms offered by some of the other denominations and by certain other organizations, such as educational institutions. THAT it is the sense of the Commission that it would be eminently wise for the missionary societies to arrange a joint platform meeting at the National Council sessions Page 4 in Springfield, each society holding its separate "business session as usual, and pernaps in some cases including publicity matters, but arranging for a comprehensive and compelling presentation of our entire range of miss- ionary activity on a single day. THAT we recommend to the societies the preparation of an exhibit to be displayed at Springfield during the meetings of the National Council ana that in the exhibit effort be made to give a sense of unity to the display, and to furnish direction to the attend- ants upon the meetings of the National Council in studying the exhibit. VOTED that the Chairman appoint at once a Nominating Committee of three persons and that the Nominating Committee be request- ed to present the names of five persons to constitute a Find- ings Committee whose duty shall be the formulation of the opinions , * of the Commission as expressed in its actions and discussions as they may affect the recommendations of the Commission to the National Council, and report to the Commission or its Executive Committee. VOTED that the reports in hand as contained in the portfolio should not be read except in parts, as such parts may bear on the business in hand or may be called for from the floor. At this point the Corresponding Secretary who had arrived took his place and Mr. Grant retired. An opportunity was given at this point for questions regard- ing actions taken thus far in the meeting upon the part of those who had not been present at the beginning. SERMON: The sermon was delivered by Dr. Burton on "The Moral Character of Ecclesiastical Corporations". (Phillipians 11:1-11.) ("With harmony of feeling, giving your minds to one and the same object".) The sermon was divided into three parts, and hymns "These Things Shall Be" and "Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life" were sung during the interim between the delivery of the three parts of the sermon. At the close of the sermon Dr. Potter led the Corranission in prayer. The roll was called as follows: (Members present indicated by star.) Page 5 -"-Rev, Cbauncey G. Adams -xRev. Ernest Bourner Allen Rev* G. Glenn Atkins *Rev. Reuben A. Beard -x-Mr o H. M. Beecher -xRev. C. H. Beale (Elected at this Mr. '/alter E. Bell *Rev. Fred Berghoefer -x-Dr. Enos H. Bigelow Rev* Edwin W. Bishop *Rev, Arthur H. Bradford Rev,, Raymond C. Brooks *Rev. Robt. E. Brown *Rev. Charles E. Burton *Rev. Charles V/. Burton *Rev. Charles P. Carter Rev, Howard J* Chidley Mr. William Knowles Cooper --Rev. Edw. V?. Cross Rev. William Horace Day -xRev. Harry P. Dewey -xRev. William M. Elledge *Rev. Chester B. Emerson •x-Mr. A. W. Fagerstrom ---Mrs. A. M. Gibbons Prof. A. h. Gillett Dean E. C. Goddard *Rev. John H. Grant Mr. Charles Welles Gross -xRev, Daniel I. Gross -xRev. Thomas H. Harper Mrs. H. Hastings Hart --Rev. John W. Herring -xRev. John Andrew Holmes -x-Mr, Henry K. Hyde -x-Pres. Henry C. King Mr, C. H. Kirschner -xRev. A. E. Krom Mr. Alfred H. Lundin -xRev. H. C. Mason *Rev. Irving Maurer Rev. Vf* && MoElveen *Mrs. E." A. Osbornson Rev. Albert W. Palmer Rev. Carl S. Patton -x-Mr. H. M. Pflager *Rev. G. E. Pihl *Rev. Rockwell H. Potter Rev. James A. Richards *Rev. Lucius H. Thayer •jRev. C. A. Vincent ■x-Prof. Luther A. Weigle -x-Mr. George N. Whittlesey -xRev. Andrew M. Wight -xRev. Lawrence A. Wilson Burlington, Vt. Oak Park, 111« Detroit, Mich. Fargo, Ho. Dakota Binghamton, N, Y. mt g} MiIw auke e, Wis. New York, N. Y. Chicago, 111. Framin ghc m, Mass. Lansing, Mich, Providence, R. I. Claremont, Cal. Waterbury, Conn. New York, N. Y. Chicago, 111. Hartford, Conn, Winchester, Mass, Washington, D. C. Grinnell, Iowa Bridgeport, Contt. Minneapolis, Minn Sabetha, Kansas Detroit, Mich. Worthington, Minn Cleveland, Ohio Hartford, Conn. Ann Arbor, Mich. Elyria, Ohio H ar tf ord, C onn. Woodfords, Maine Dallas, Texas White Plains, N. Terre Haute, Ind. Lincoln, Nebr. Ware, Mass. Oberlin, Ohio Kansas City, Mo. Providence, R. I. Seattle, Wash. Seattle, Wash. Columbus, Ohio Portland, Oregon Oak Park, 111. Honolulu, Hawaii Los Angeles, Cal. St. Louis, Mo. New Britain, Conn Hartford, Conn, Winnetka, 111. Portsmouth, N. H. Winter Park, Fla, New Haven, Conn, Brooklyn, N. Y. Syracuse, N. Y. Greeley, Colo. *Rev. Thomas T. Giffen (Elected at this meeting) Fresno, Cal. Page 6. REPORT OF SURVEY COMMITTEE; Rev. Irving Maurer presented the recommendstions of the Committee on Survey and Apportionment. Secretary Burton pointed out that the vital changes suggested were the addition of 2>% for the Foundation for Education and an increase for the C. B. M. R. Dr. Maurer replied to inquiries. Dr. Nash of the Foundation spoke in response to questions from the floor regarding the work of the Foundation, emphasizing the fact that there was a widespread desire on the part of State Conferences, churches, pastors and individuals that the Foundation "be placed once more on the Apportionment. Secretary Sheldon of the C. E. S. made a "brief statement re- garding the needs of the colleges as seen from the point of view of the Education Society. He read a letter from Dr. Charles R. Brown, President of the C. E. S., expressing his conviction that the Foundation ought not to be included in the Apportionment. Dr. Sheldon expressed his own opposition to placing the Foundation on the Apportionment, emphasizing two grounds; - (1) that such action would create another benevolent society, (2) that in his judgment such action would not bring the desired result in increased gifts to the colleges. Professor Weigle requested that a written memorial be present- ed by the Foundation, giving the reasons favorable to its in- elusion on the Apportionment* He also suggested that the matter might be left for action by the National Council. President King emphasized the need of keeping the churches and colleges from drifting further apart and expressed the opinion that this might be accomplished by giving the Foundation a place on the Apportionment. Dr. Maurer, in reply to inquiries, stated that the Survey Committee understood that if the Foundation were placed on the Apportionment it would be subject to the same limitations as the other organizations participating in the distribution of the Apportionment and appealing to the churches. Dr. Nash spoke at some length in presenting the claims of the Foundation for inclusion in the Apportionment. VOTED that the Commission express its judgment as favorable to the inclusion of 3% for the Foundation on the Apportionment. VOTED that the percentages recommended by the Survey Committee for the several states and groups be approved, with the under- standing that the statistician is to verify the figures, make minor changes which may appear necessary and present the com- piete schedule at a later session. The aggregate of these percentages yield the following comparative averages for the Nation: Page 7. Becommonded For 1984 24.2$ 13.2$ 26$ 7,9$ 2.6% 12.1% 5,6% 5% 4«3% i.i% im%— VOTED that a committee be appointed to carry greetings to the Boy Scout leaders1 meeting in the Chicago Beach Hotel* VOTED that the Apportionment for 1924 be fixed at $5,000,000, VOTED that the apportionment for Missouri .be fixed at $60,000 instead of $75,000; that of Maryland at $1,800 instead of $3,000, and that of Hawaii $54,200, with the understanding that this item shall include the apportionment for the Hawaii Board, which has not been included previously* The Committee on Promotional Program was appointed as follows: Messrs. Pflager, Holmes, Allen, Hyde, Cross and Mrs. Gibbons. VOTED that the Commission request the states to grant to some representative of the Commission or of the National Societies the privilege of sitting with the State Board when percent- ages for 1924 are determined. VOTED that the Commission refer for favorable consideration to the Congregational Conference of Illinois and the Chicago Congregational Missionary and Extension Society an arrange- ment according to which contributions in 1923 and 1924 be divided as follows: Up to the amount given under the 1922 Apportionment gifts of each church of the Chicago Association shall be divided on the basis of the Apportionment figures. Any additional amounts shall be divided into equal parts, one of which shall be given to the Chicago Society and the other of which shall be divided in proportion to the percentages of the other causes having place in the Apportionment. VOTED that the way does not seem to be open to include a mis- cellaneous or contingent item in the Apportionment for 1924 c 1923 Basis A. B. C. P. M. 25,2$ Woman's Boards 13.6$ Church Extension Boards: C. H. M. 3. 27.2% C, C. B. S. 8.2$ C. 3. S. E. S. 2.6$ A. M. A. 12.6$ C. E. S. 5.8$ Foundation for Education Ministerial Boards: ■ — - ' C. B. M. R. 2.9$ Annuity Fund 1.1$ Miscellaneous Items Page 8. VOTED that the 001111111381011 &3k the Annuity Fund tc give guid- ance to the Boards in working out a plan for retirement and benefit payments for unordained employees, the expense of such payments to be borne out of current funds of the Boards with- out an attempt to raise a capital fund for the purpose, VOTED that the inclusion of the Woman's Home Missionary Union in published percentages should be left for state decision. VOTED that the states be advised to fix the percentage of the Woman's Home Missionary Union on an equality with that of the Woman's Boards. VOTED that the application of the Woman's Home Missionary Federation for an expense allowance of instead of 2% for promotional expenses be approved. VOTED that the system of credits to foreign-speaking churches approved by the Executive Committee in 1922 be continued. Memorials from the Church Extension Boards were presented. (See Exhibit A.) VOTED to refer the first and second memorials to the Survey Committee and the others to the Business Committee. Messrs. STLX&dgia and Cross were appointed a committee to carry greetings to the $oy Scout meeting, VOTED that friendly greetings be extended to Mrs. Williston Walker of Hew Haven, Conn., who is ill, through Rev. Harry R. Miles of New Haven, Conn. The Secretary of the Superintendents' Conference presented documents which were referred to the Business Committee. VOTED to adjourn until 8:00 P. M. The Commission reconvened at 8:00 P. M., Dr. Potter in the. chair. Mr. Beard presented Mr. Merritt Lum of Winnetka, 111., who spoke regarding the financial campaigns in the Winnetka church. A brief discussion folio? ed. Greetings were brought by Mr. S. W, Barkley from the annual meeting of the South Shore District Committee Chicago Council Boy Scouts of America. Superintendent Sullens presented a statement from the Superin- tendents' Conference regarding promotional plans. Dr. Burton presented matters pertaining to the report of the Commission to the National Council. Page 9 Mr* Halliday spoke concerning the subjects that were presented by Dr. Burton* Dr. Patton spoke regarding his point of view concerning the subjects under discussion. At 10:30 P. M. a motion to adjourn was lost. Dr. Emerson spoke regarding the work done by the Executive Committee of the Commission on Missions* Dr. Thayer, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Commission, emphasized the fact that there had been little or no friction in the work of the Committee with the Secretaries of the Boards. Dr* Cady spoke in regard to the matters under discussion; also Drs. Mills and Potter. Dr. Burton replied, referring to the various aspects of the . questions liaised which had been under discussion, with special emphasis upon the work done by the Secretaries of the Boards. VOTED that the Executive Session of the Commission be held on Thursday afternoon, January 25th, at 2:00 P. M., instead of on Thursday evening, as previously voted. VOTED to adjourn until 9:30 A. M., Thursday, January 25th. The meeting was called to order on Thursday morning by the Chairman, who led in prayer. VOTED that the choice of a Vice-Chairman to succeed Dr. VanHorn be referred to the Nominating Committee. VOTED that a half hour be devoted to a debate on Dr. Burton's report, with a three-minute limit on the participants. NOMINATING COMMITTEE: VOTED that the Chairman appoint the following Nominating Committee: Rev. J. W. Herring, Indiana; Rev. A. E. Krom, Rhode Island; Rev. H. C. Mason, Washington. DISCUSSION OP DR. BURTON'S REPORT: Proceeding with the discussion on Dr. Burton's report, Mr, Cross of Iowa emphasized the need of clearness of definition of the functions of the Commission, Dr. Merrill of Illinois expressed the opinion that the churches strongly desire the kind of development of pew ers of the Commission as outlined by Dr. Burton, Page 10. Dr. Pat,ton suggested the possibility of creating a special Commission to draw up a statement for presentation to the National Council in relation to the possible changes suggested by Dr. Burton. Dr. Sheldon spoke suggesting that the question of definition be referred to the Executive Committee of the Commission. Dr. Cady spoke., urging that Dr. Pattern's suggestion be follow- ed. Dr. Sheldon repeated his suggestion. Remarks? by -Mr., Herring? of Indiana and by Mrs . H. C. Herring of New York. VOTED to extend indefinitely the period of debate.. Dr. Thayer emphasized the responsibility resting upon the Commission to take some definite action which could be clear- ly understood and serve as a basis for future action by the Executive Committee of the Commission. Dr. Ricker spoke from the standpoint of the State and Dis- trict Superintendents, urging the need of some action that would enable the denomination to go forwardT Dr. Kenngott of California favored the proposed actions as outlined by Dr. Burton. VOTED that the Commission approve of the proposal of the re- port as contained in (c) "Next Steps", and refer it, with approval, to the Commission meeting in executive session Thursday afternoon. Dr. Mills emphasized the two points, (1) that the actions proposed by Dr. Burton might lead to the setting up of a piece of machinery more powerful than would be wise and (2) that it might not accomplish the desired results. He hoped these two possibilities would be given careful consideration. Remarks by Mr. Elledge of Kansas and Dr. Rollins of New York. VOTED that a committee of five be appointed to draft a state- ment defining the spheres of responsibility of the Commission on Missions in the promotion of receipts, and especially the relation of this responsibility to that of the several official Boards, the naming of this committee to be referred to the Nominating Committee. The discussion was continued, being participated in by Dr. Mills, Professor iVeigle, Mr. Johnson of Iowa, Dr. Maurer, Mr, Giffen, Mr. Stearns, Dr. Allen, Mr. Bigelow, Dr. Bradford, Dr. Dewey, Mr. Wilson of Colorado and others. Page 11 VOTED that 3 and 4 under (c) "Next Steps" on page 12 of Dr. Burton1s report (page 22 of portfolio) be referred to the committee just authorized. This committee was elected as follows: Messrs. Thayer, Brown, Emerson, King and V/eigle. VOTED to elect Dr. G. Glenn Atkins of Detroit as Vice-Chairman of the Commission. Superintendent Sullens read the findings of the Superintend- ents1 Conference on the matter of accounting. (See Exhibit B.) President King took the chair, the members of the Commission rising as a mark of respect to him. The memorials from the Church Extension Boards, 3 to 6 in- elusive, were referred by the Business Committee to the Survey Committee. (See Exhibit A.) Dr. Maurer presented the following recommendations from the Survey Committee, which were adopted. Pursuant to the memorials of the Church Extension Boards, the Survey Committee submits the following recommendations: THAT in view of the fact that the work of the Hawaiian Board corresponds very closely to the work of the Constituent States, and that in consequence no contributions whatever are made to several Congregational Societies, the gifts of the Hawaiian churches to the Hawaiian Board for work in Hawaii be credited under "Other Apportionment Items" in the Year Book, with a foot-note reading substantially as follows: "Inasmuch as under the form of organiza- tion in Hawaii, the Hawaiian Board ad- ministers work comparable to that done in the States, through the C. H. M. S., C. C. B. S., C. S. S. E. S. and C. E. S., there is no differentiation, the total being credited in the column "Other Apportionment Items", and"that foot-notes marks in place of ciphers,, and referring to this explanation, be inserted in the C. H. M. S., C. C. B. S., C. S. S. E. S. and C. E. S. columns, this action, however, being subject to the approval of the Hawaiian Board. THAT there be entered in the Year Book the con- tributions of the Congregational foreign-speaking churches of the United States to missionary objects financed and controlled by these churches under Page 12. "Other Apportiorient Items", and that in place of ciphers in the several Society columns a foot-note mark "be printed referring to an ex- planation substantially as follows: "Several groups of Congregational foreign- speaking churches finance and control missionary enterprises for their own people similar to our regular missionary work. Such contributions are reported in totals under 'Other Apportionment Items'. The Survey Committee notes that the Commission on Evangelism is cared for, during 1924, by the Congregational Home Hiss- ionary Society, and recommends THAT the Commission on Evangelism be assured that its needs for the future will be taken care of by the Commission on Missions as the case arises. THAT the inclusion of the Foundation for Education in the Apportionment for 1924 be understood as subjecting them to the same limitations respect- ing approaches to individual churches which apply to other societies, THAT confei'ence expense items, when included in the Apportionment as a separate account, be recog- nized in the "Other -apportionment Items column of the Year Book, after deduction of such sums as may be used for payment of national Council, dues. THAT the Commission on Missions commend to the churches for benevolent consideration the American Bible Society and the Federal Council of Churches of Christ in America. THAT $3,000 be paid from the Miscellaneous Fund of 1922 to the Congregational Education Society on account of recruiting work, and that the balance now in hand, together with any additions which may accrue, be held in 1923 in the treasury as a contingent fund, subject to the order of the Executive Committee of the national Council. The Survey Committee by unanimous vote requested its Chairman to speak on the floor of the Commission, gratefully recording the Committee's sense of obligation to Mr. E. A. Harvey of Boston, who by his untiring and painstaking service as statistician has greatly furthered the Committee's work in arriving at percentages to be suggested to the states. VOTED to adjourn Page 13. EXECUTIVE SESSION: The Commission convened in Executive Session at 2:00 P. M., Dr. Potter in the chair. VOTED that Rev. U. A. Rowell of Illinois be invited to sit with the Commission with the privileges of the regular session. VOTED that Rev. Charles H. Beale, D. D., of Milwaukee, wis., and Rev. Thomas T. Giffen of Fresno, California, be elected to the Commission to fill vacancies'from 7/isconsin and North- ern California respectively. The report of the Committee on Literature was presented by Rev. C. C. Adams of Burlington, Vt. (See Exhibit H.) VOTED to adopt the first recommendation, that our educational program be unified, and refer it to Dr. Gates' department for special consideration; also to commend the progress made in recent years in the direction of unification of educational programs, and finally to urge increased cooperation on the part of the Societies to this end. A motion that three State Superintendents be added to the Executive Committee as corresponding members was lost. A motion that the number of members on the Executive Committee be increased from 11 to 15 was lost. • VOTED that the Executive Committee when constituted be empower- ed to fill vacancies in its own ranks. VOTED to adopt the recommendation that the State and District offices be the distributing points for denominational litera- ture. VOTED that the third recommendation of the Committee on Literature, re the production of literature, be laid on the table. VOTED to adopt the fourth recommendation in relation to miss- ionary magazines. VOTED that this report of the Committee on Literature be mimeographed and copies sent to the members of the Boards. Professor V/elgle presented the report of the Committee on Salaries (See Exhibit D.) VCTED to accept the report and adopt its recommendations. VOTED that the Executive Committee be instructed to complete the report of the Commission to the National Council and present the same. Page 14 A motion that one-half of the requisition of the Foundation for Education for expenses of the Commission on Missions campaign be remitted was lost, VOTED to adopt the following recommendations of the Business Committee: THAT the executive staff and the Executive Committee be requested to issue a carefully prepared guide book for treasurers of benevolence, with comprehensive ex- planations of the apportionment plan, the processes of division, the relation to the total budget cf the different departments of the church, and with a direct- ory of officers to whom remittances may be made, in- eluding the listing of central offices to which money may be sent in bulk for division, accompanied by a blank form for careful instructions to the central treasury as to division of remittances. THAT the second Sunday in December be recommended to the State Conferences and to the churches as the day for the Every Member Canvass, and that promotional plans of the Commission on Missions be timed to this date, THAT the Promotional Secretaries of the several Societies be requested to confer together regarding the desirability of a change in the rates of Condition- al Gifts in any particulars which may seem desirable to them, but especially with a view to meeting the more favorable terms offered by some of the other denomina- tions and by certain other organizations, such as ed- ucational institutions. THAT it is the sense of the Commission that it would be eminently wise for the missionary societies to arrange a joint platform meeting at the national Council sessions in Springfield, each Society holding its separate business session as usual, and perhaps in some cases in- eluding publicity matters, but arranging for a comprehensive and compelling presentation of our entire range of miss- ionary activity on a single day. Further MOVED THAT we recommend to the Societies the preparation of an exhibit to be displayed at Springfield during the meet- ings of the National Council and that in the exhibit effort be made to give a sense of unity to the display, and to furnish direction to the attendants upon the meetings of the National Council in studying the exhibit. Dr. Thayer presented the report of the special committee appointed to report on certain portions of Secretary Burton's report. Sections 2 and 4 of this report were adopted, which were as follows: (2) "In the field of promotional activity the Commission on Missions shall be charged with Page 15. the initiation and direction of the common effort in behalf of the whole enterprise of Congregational missionary work through- out the year; and with the duty of correla- tion of individual promotion on the part of the several societies. (4) "That the report and the recommendation of the Commission on Missions to the National Council of 1923 be so cast as to call for the concurr- ; ence of the Societies in biennial meeting on the budget of the Commission on Missions". Section 3 under (c) "Next Steps" on page 12 of Dr. Burton's report was laid on the table, pending consideration of the report as a whole. President King took the chair and Dr. Potter spoke. VOTED to adopt the following resolution: "Recognizing the importance of the proposals made in Secretary Burton's report and approv- ing the direction of those prop® als as stated on page 20 of the portfolio (page 10 of the report) under the heading, "Legalize the Commission on Missions", and also on page 22 (page 12 of the report) under "Next Steps", No. 3, where the election of the Commission on Missions as a committee in good standing of each of the Societies for the purpose of promoting income is proposed, we refer these proposals and the issues involved to the Executive Committee for consideration, report and recommendation at the next meeting of the Commission". VOTED that Dr. Thayer's committee be requested to communicate this action to the Church Extension Boards in response to the memorials presented by them. VOTED to adjourn until 7:30 P. M. Thursday, 7:30 P. M, The Commission convened in open session, Dr. Potter in the chair. The minutes of the Executive session were read and opportunity was given for reconsideration of any action involved. VOTED to approve these minutes as read. Mr. Beard presented the digest of the E. M. C. plan for 1924. Page 16 The items in the budget were presented. A question period followed. A statement was made by Dr. Potter concerning the employment of advertising counsel, as indicated in the budget. Mr. Adams, for the Committee on Literature, made a statement offering the third recommendation of his Committee (re the production of literature). Mr. Pflager presented the report of the Committee on Promotion. (See Exhibit C.) VOTED to adopt recommendations 1, 2 and 3 of the Committee. VOTED to reconsider the third recommendation. VOTED to refer the third recommendation to the Executive Committee with power. VOTED to adopt the fourth recommendation-/ Mr. Kilbon made a statement in regard to the Accounting Depart- ment. VOTED that this department be continued for another year. VOTED that the budget as a whole be adopted, withi the in- elusion of an item of $1,500 for the expenses of the meeting of the Commission just before the National Council meeting in Springfield, Mass., with the understanding that the Executive Committee have its usual power to transfer credits within the budget. VOTED that Recommendation 5 of the Committee on Promotion be adopted. VOTED that the Executive Committee be authorized by the Commission on Missions to make copies of the vote of the Commission putting the matter of Secretary Burton1s report in the hands of the Executive Committee and to send the same with digests of the report to the various Boards. Dr. Thayer presented a report of the Committee on Accounting Methods. (See Exhibit F.) VOTED to adjourn until 9:30 A. M. Friday. Friday, January 26th, 9:30 A, M. Dr. Beale was elected temporary Chairman in the absence of Dr. Pother. Dr. Beale offered prayer. Page 17# Dr. Krom presented the report of the Nominating Committee, which was as follows: Officers of the Commission: Dr. R. H. Potter, Chairman Rev. G. Glenn Atkins, Vic©-Chairman Rev. John II. Grant, Secretary Mr. XIalter E. Bell, Treasurer Executive Committee: C . C . Adams E. B. Allen IV. E. Bell (ex officio) E. H. Bigelow C. E. Burton (ex officio) C. B. Emerson Mrs. H. H. Hart Mrs. E. A. Osbornson H. M. Pflager R. H. Potter (ex officio) James Austin Richards L. H. Thayer Vermont Illinois New York Massachusetts New York Michigan New York Illinois Missouri Connecticut Illinois New Hampshire VOTED to adopt the report and to elect the officers and the Executive Committee as named. Mr. E. A. Harvey presented in behalf of the Survey Committee recommendations for 1924 as regards the percentages recommended to the states and the apportionment percentagej for distribu- tion to the societies. VOTED that the recommendations of percentages presented by the Survey Committee be referred to the Executive Committee, with approval in general but suggesting that the percentages for Massachusetts be made more nearly what they have been, that other minor changes be made as may be deemed advisable and that Mr. Harvey then report to the Executive Committee for final approval. VOTED that a hearty vote of thanks be extended to Mr. Harvey for his very valuable service. VOTED that the next meeting of the Commission be held at 2:00 P. M., Monday, October 15, 1923, in Springfield, Mass. A report of the Committee on Large Gifts was presented by Dr. Krom (see Exhibit G.) in Mr. Cooper^ absence. VOTED that the report be referred to the Promotion Department in consultation with the Executive Committee, with cordial approval of Mr. Cooper1a statement as contained in the report. A report of the Committee on Designated Gifts and Equalization was presented by Dr. Burton. (See Exhibit E.) Page 18. VOTED that th© report be received, printed, and copies be sent out to the State Conferences, the Boards and other interested parties as a basis for further discussion and future action. VOTED that the office and field force be elected annually. VOTED that the present office force be elected for one year, i. e. Rev. ;v. S. Beard, Secretary of Promotion, salary S5,000; James E. McConnell, D. D., Associate Secretary, salary fs4,500; and Rev. J, L. Kilbon, Financial Secretary, salary $4,500. VOTED that the selection of District and State Promotional Secretaries be referred to the Promotion Department, with the understanding that this department will secure the advice of the Executive Committee when possible. Mrs. Pearsall spoke regarding the relation of the women to the total budget. VOTED that the Council of 'woman1 s Boards and the W. II. M. F. be requested to formulate a policy on the relation of the women to the total budget and report to the Commission not later than its next meeting. VOTED that checks drawn against the account of the Commission on Missions in the Manufacturers Trust Company be payable when signed by C. E. Burton, James E. McConnell or William S. Beard as Secretary and by Walter E. Bell, Treasurer or John Luther Kilbon, Financial Secretary. The following recommendation presented by Mr. Whittlesey was adopted: "WHEREAS the work of ministerial relief is now carried forward through the Congregational Board of Minister- ial Relief and fourteen independent State Boards, and WHEREAS, in spite of the kindly spirit of fellowship among said Boards, there are certain incidental in- felicities and possible inequities, The Commission on Missions recommends to the several State Boards a fresh study of the facts involved, in conference with the National Board in the interest of unity, equity and efficiency11. VOTED that the authority given to the Commission on Missions on Page 367 of the minutes of the National Council for 1921 be delegated to the Executive Committee of the Commission on Missions. VOTED that the Commission believes that on every state benevO- lence committee there should be women representing state organ- izations promoting both home and foreign missions. VOTED to continue the Committee on Overhead Expenses. Page 19 VOTED that the appointment of a Survey Committee be referred to the Executive Committee. VOTED to authorize the Recording Secretary to complete the minutes and submit them to the Executive Committee for approv- al. VOTED to adjourn after prayerr Prayer VJas offered by Dr. W, E, Barton, Moderator of the National Council, after which the Commission adjourned. Arthur H. Bradford "Hecording Secretary. "EXHIBIT A.« MEMORIALS TO THE COMMISSION ON MISSIONS FROM THE CHURCH EXTENSION BOARDS MIDWINTER MEETING, Chicago, January 1933 1. The Board of Directors believes that contributions by City Societies for church building, since such contributions are not ad- ministered either by The Home Missionary or Church Building Societies should not be credited in the Year Book under their columns. 3. The Board of Directors, believing that the home missionary column in the Year Book should be reserved exclusively for contribu- tions to the Home Missionary Society, does not approve of having the contributions of the Hawaiian Churches or of foreign-speaking churches which are not administered by the Home Missionary Society, entered under home missions. 3. The Board of Directors accepts the suggestion of the Commis- sion on Missions with respect to including in its budget for 1934 the sum of $15,000 for the support of the Commission on Evangelism, it being understood that this action shall not commit it beyond that year Similarly the Board approves the inclusion of $300 for the incidental fund of each Congregational Chaplain in United States ser- vice. 4. Desiring to cooperate heartily in the promotion of our common benevolent program, the Board of Directors is anxious to have such representation in the councils of the Commission on Missions as will make its cooperation most effective. To this end it respectfully sub- mits the following suggestions: a. That the General Secretary of the Church Extension Boards should be included in the voting membership of the Executive Commit- tee of the Commission on Missions. b. That proposals intended for the consideration of the Exepu- tive Committee of the Commission on Missions should be transmitted to the members of the Executive Committees of the various societies at least ten days before the date of a proposed meeting. 5. It is the sense of the Board of Directors that the period of common promotion for the Every Member Canvass should be limited to the three months immediately preceding the canvass. 6. Regarding *-he functions of the Commission on Missions and its place in the general present plan of Congregational organisation we would respectfully affirm that we conceive it as entirely a co- ordinating and cooperative, rather than a supervising or directing agency, and as such, we are prepared to welcome its suggestions and to consult and work with it in harmony and hopefulness. "EXHIBIT B« MINUTES OF THE SUPERINTENDENTS' CONFERENCE OF THE MIDWINTER MEETING HELD AT THE CHICAGO BEACH HOTEL, CHI- CAGO, ILLINOIS, JANUARY 23-34, 1933. President William J. Minchin presided. On motion the following committees were appointed: (3.) committee to present nominations for officers of the Superintendents1 Conference for the coming year; (3) committee to consider and report on the plan ^lnanc^a"^ Promotion proposed by Secretary of Promotion of the Com- mission on Missions, Rev. W0 S? Beard; (3) committee to consider and xeport concerning the present accounting department of the Commission on Missions, The Nominating Committee reported the names of Rev* J. H. Heald for President and Rev, A. J. Sullens for Secretary, Voted to adopt the report. The Committee on Promotional Secretary W. S. 3eard's plan reported as follows: "FINDINGS of Committee appointed to consider the program pro— posed'by Promotional Secretary of Commission on Missions, Rev. W. S. Beardr 1. That we approve in general the plan presented for the se- curing of a thorough and efficient organization for the fi~ nancing of our benevolence program. 3. That we especially approve the allocation of executive responsibility to laymen which underlies this plan, and we believe that this principle should be applied in a way that does not supplant the existing Conference and Association organizations, but helps them to work with greater efficien- c-y. 3. We commend the proposal of the Promotional Secretary to meet with the Board of Directors of each State Conference at the earliest opportunity, to advise with them in adapting this plan to their needs. 4. We recommend that an appropriation should be made by the Commission on Missions to carry out this plan; and also that at a meeting of the State Board of Directors with the Secre- tary of Promotion a detailed budget for the economical £ inane- ing of the plan in that state be worked out. 5, In view of the fact that every last dollar is needed for work on the field, wa recommend thai*, in all our work for pro- motion and collection, the expense* should be held to the min- imum necessary to insure efficiency, 6, We believe that it will facilitate the successful work- ing of this plan if the State Apportionment Committee will send the apportionment assigned to each local church for its adoption before the Fall Conference or Association Meeting where such is held. We also recommend that the utmost pos- sible consultation with the local church be had in regard to its apportionment, to the end that each church shall feel - 3 - that it has decided upon it# own apportionment. 7. In view of the tremendous need for the education of the people of our churches in regard to the great challenge of our missionary enterprises, we recommend that in preparation for the Every Member Canvass personal assistance be provided the State Conference and Local Associations for educational and inspirational purposes, and that in every State and Asso- ciation Training Conference sufficient time be allowed for the educational and inspirational side as well as for the presentation of the detailed plans for raising benevolence funds ♦" E. S„ Rothrock ) Charles Karbutt) C. C. Merrill ) COMMITTEE 0. H. Harrison J A. J, Sullens ) VOTED: That the report be amended by the addition of the following section: "In view of the general criticism made by our pastors and churches of the quantity and expense of our denom- inational literature, we recommend to our National Mis- sionary Societies reduction in the expense and quantity of such publicity matter and also that they correlate the literature published together with methods of pro- motion with this plan." The report as amended was adopted on motion. VOTED: That a copy of this Committee's report be sent to every State Superintendent and State Eoard of Directors. VOTED: That the Secretary transmit to the Associate Secre- tary of the Commission on Missions a copy of the minutes of this Superintendents' Conference with the request that they be sent with the minutes of the Commission on Missions to all in our Congrega- tional constituency to whom those minutes are sent. The Committee on the Accounting Department of the Commission on Missions reported as follows: "The task set before your committee has not been an easy one. The matter of the Accounting Department of the Commission on Missions has grown upon us as we have endeavored to understand its nature, object and method by which it functions. We have had several meetings, each time inviting to sit with us for purposes of information different persons connected with state, district and national organisations, who have been or are in a more or less intimate relation with this depart- ment and whose knowledge we esteemed of value in helping us to an estimate of the importance of the Accounting Department. This department functions first in the matter of accounting, which is a matter of bookkeeping and involves every Congrega- tional church in the United States, - 3 - Secondly, and perhaps this is tfee strongest point in favor of this department, it functions as a central statistical agency for the denomination, gathering information regard- ing the benevolences of the churches both past and present. These statistics are especially valuable in the compilation *>£ data for the Year Book, In the work of the Promotional Office the information gathered through this department is also of especial value. There are other various ways in which the Accounting Department- functions but the matters of accounting and of getting statist- ics appear to be its chief functions. We find in our study of this problem that the Accounting De- partment has greater or less value depending upon the character and efficiency of the organizations in the various states, dis- tricts or boards with which it has worked. Some states do not use this department at all. Indeed, many if not most of the constituent states, receive the denomina- tional benevolences from the churches within their bounds through the Conference treasurers and distribute these funds as designated in accordance with the apportionment plan., di- xectly to the treasurers of the National Missionary Societies, which plan we heartily commend to all states and conferences; and in addition all of the National Missionary Societies have their own treasurers and accounting departments, and do not use the accounting department of the Commission on Missions except the Church Extension Boards and Woman1 s Federation, On the other hand some of the states and conferences, the Woman*s Federation and Home Extension Boards desire the continuance of the Accounting Department of the Commission. To serve these particular organizations the department is car- ried on at an expense of $13,585 out of a total bucket of the Commission on Missions of $143,359. Should these organisation* directly benefited fey this depart- meat do the work themselves which is now done fey the Account- ing Department It would entail a ooet of approximately $9,000, with a certain loss of that efficiency which comes with the more central organisation, As a result of the laeh of uniformity in the method of pro- oeduze in the receiving and distributing of the denominational benevolences fey the various Conferences and National Missionary Bocietiea we axe net oleer as to the oentlmiano* of the Aeeount-» ing Deportment of the Ceoalaefen. In view pf $hese facts and in consid|§§|iim also of the fact that this iftS 80 short a time and^ has scarcely had to demonstrate its value, it is efwhia committee that /it should fed SOntimidd until the time of meeting of the National - 4 - Council in October, when in a more representative gathering Of t he denomination the mat tor can be finally disposed of." Everett Lesher, Chairman John Je Walker P. A, Johnson J. W. Sutherland G. F, Kenngott By vote the report was adopted. VOTED: That we request the National Boards to report each month to each of the state offices all contributions including "specials" received from churches and individuals in that state, VOTED: That Rev. J. J, Walker, together with President Heald and Secretary Sullens> be the Executive Committee of this body, VOTED: That in the preparation of the program for next year's meeting, the Committee be requested to confer with Secretaries Boyoe and Dana so that considerat ion of the city and also the rural problems may have place on the program. The meeting adjourned. January 34, 1933. Arthur J. 'Sullens SECRETARY. "EXHIBIT 0." C0HKITTE3 ON PROMOTION H. M« Pflager, Chairman RECOMMENDATION: 1. That commencing February 1st the relationship of the Chicago Office of the Commission on Missions be extended to include Mont a- na; the Rocky Mountain District, Colorado, Utah and Wyoming; the South Central District, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas; Ohio arid Michigan, provided this realignment is acceptable to the Conference of the States in question. 2. That the designation of men employed as field workers in the several states under the salary of the Commission on Missions be Promotional Secretaries. 3. That the Commissions policy of assessing the states to com- pensate for ordinary expenses incurred in promotional service on behalf of those states be now discontinued, and further that the Commission will not expect to be called upon to honor bills incurred by state conference workers in connection with the usual procedure of joint promotional service in that area. It is understood that the above action affects such charges as travel and hotel bills of state superintendents and the general state workers in attendance upon meetings where the denominational program is involved, the financial secretary, if such there be, ex- cept where other arrangements are made, the shipping of denomina- tional literature from the state office for state and local boards, etc. It should be further noted that in connection with such extra efforts as the Every Member Canvass campaign for 1924 special appro- priations for state expenses are being provided by the Commission. This action does not apply to the States of Connecticut and Massa- chusetts, where the state conferences are not organized for admin- istrative purposes and where, in consequence, the respective home missionary societies may be reasonably expected to bear their fair share of joint promotional expense. 4. We recommend the approval by the Commission on Missions of the Every Member Canvass for 1S24 as set forth in the outline which has been distributed under the caption, "Digest of the Every Member Canvass for 1924." 5. We recommend that the Executive Committee of the Commission on Missions be authorized to provide the Promotional Secretary of the Commission with such assistance as in their judgment shall be necessary to prepare the literature and other accessories that are essential to the* successful promotion of the Every Member Canvass campaign. H. M. Pflager E. M. Cross E. B. Allon H. K. Eyde Mrs, A. M. Gibbons EXHIBIT "D" REPORT OJe*' C OMMITTBB ON 3APARIES . This committee was charged, primarily, to consider the salaries paid to the staff of the Commission on Missions, in comparison to the salaries paid to men charged with like re- sponsibilities by other denominations and by our own Boards. Upon its recommendation, the Executive Committee voted on November 22nd that Rev. W. S. Beard's salary be $5,000.00, Dr. J. E. McConnell's $4,500.00, and Rev. J. L. Kilbon's $4,500.00. In view of the discussion at that meeting, the Committee was continued and charged to consider the salary schedules of the entire secretarial force of our national fellowship. The several Boards have responded readily to the inquiry, and we have secured data concerning the corresponding forces of several other denominations. We find the following facts: (1) That the work of our benevolent societies, in general, is economically administered. The salaries paid the various secretaries of our Boards are not higher, and, on the whole, lower than those paid to men in like positions in other denominations. (2) There are noticeable differences in this respect between the several Boards of our own fellowship. The American Board and the Education Society have lower salary scales than other Boards. The Foundation for Education and the Ministerial Boards pay each one salary in excess of any paid by other Boards. The A. M. A. has three men at a salary $1,000.00 higher than any paid by the American Board or the Education Society. The Secretary of the National Council has not been adequately paid, in view of the responsibilities which devolve upon him. (3) A motive which occasionally determines salary adjust- ments is the desire to sustain the dignity or maintain the relative precedence of secretaries. For example, when a secretary receiving $4,000,00 finds it imposs- ible, in view of rising costs in metropolitan areas, to live and provide for his family within this income, and the Board employing him., after investigation, raises his salary to $4,500.00, there is a disposition forth- with to raise the salary of the general secretary of that Board from ^55,000.00 to $5,500.00 or from *$6,000.00 to $6,500.00, in order that the same financial distance may be maintained and the precedence of the higher- salaried officer be conserved. (4) Boards have sometimes acted upon salary matters without knowledge of what salaries other Boards are paying; and in some cases an actual misapprehension of certain salaries paid by other Boards has been a factor in the discussion. EXHIBIT "D" (CONT'D) We understand that action has just been taken by the Executive Committee of the national Council which places Secretary Burton's salary at a more appropriate figure * With respect to these facts, your Committee's judgment is as follows: 1, l/e believe that the secretaries of our Boards should bo paid salaries adequate to living conditions in the cities in which they must reside, and large enough to make possible both benevolence and reasonable provision for the future. We doubt, however, the value of reference to the salaries paid by other denominations as a factor to be cons id erect in determining the salaries to be paid to analogous officers in our fellowship, 2. It seems to your Committee impossible to set a fixed, uniform salary scale, to be recommended to a3.1 Boards. The responsibilities involved in the secretaryships of the sev- eral Societies, however analogous, are not identical or uniform; due account must be taken of differences in living conditions; and the previous experience and salary of the individual must be considered, 3« We are not clear concerning the value of the principle of relative dignity or precedence in determining salaries. Human nature being what it is, it seems inevitable that this principle will be invoked, and it is perhaps in some degree essential to the maintenance of morale. But it may work hardship in unduly limiting the salaries of deserving men upon staffs where general officers are not offered or do not accept raises in salary; and it may involve waste in the unnecessary raising of the salary of a general officer when it has been found necessary to raise that of a member of the staff. We urge upon the Boards that this principle is only one of the factors to be considered in determining salaries, and that it is of limited value. 4. The last of the conditions stated can easily be avoided in future. With a view to removing any probability of action in ignorance or under misapprehension, we recommend: THAT the several Societies be asked to file with the Secretary of the Commission on Missions a statement of salaries paid to the members of their respective staffs, and to keep these statements ravis- ed to date; and that these statements be made access- ible to the responsible officials of each Society, L. A. Weigle C. B. Emerson E, C. Goddard "EXHIBIT E," REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE APPOINTED TO RBSTUEY SUEJBCT OF DESIGNATED GIFTS AND EQUALIZATION The special committee appointed to restudy Designated Gifts and Equalization first communicated with the seven societies and the Woman's Boards and Federation, and attach their replies to this report. We make the following report with recommendations of . handling this subject both by the Churches and the State Conferences. LOCAL CHURCH 1« Within the percentages: We recommend that for ed- ucational purposes churches should take up specific objects provided for within the percentages. 2. Changing the percentages: a. For educational value we approve increasing the percentage of any one society to cover a specific object provided enough more money is raised so that the other societies receive as much as they would have received without this effort. b. We recommend that as soon as the church has succeed- ed in that project it take a special object of one of the other societies, etc., etc. c. As a matter of equity we recommend that neighbor- ing churches should take each an object of a differ- ent society as a special in order to keep a bal- ance between the societies as far as possible. d. A church may adopt a policy of equalizing special gifts by considering that such gifts take care of a part or all of the percentage of that society; but if the designated gifts should exceed the per- centage the whole amount should go to that society. When a donor wishes his gift to be given in addi- tion to the share of the society in the apportion- ment, then that gift should be sent by the aonofc directly to that society and not disturb the common budget being raised by the church. e. We approve of a church's setting aside by ^ote a definite amount in the budget to be used for equal- ization. 3. Over and above the percentage: The committee would encourage the church that has met its apportionment to take care of some specific need without equalize- tion, and recommenda that it be given credit in the "EXHIBIT E" (CONT'D) year book. Endeavor should be made to get equitable hearings for the different societies. STATE CONFERENCE 1. Equalization by State Boards or Treasurers without authorization we should consider unjustifiable. 2. We are not clear as to the right of a State Confer- ence by vote at its annual meeting to authorize equalizing gifts on account of the difficulty of getting the real wishes of the individual churches and donors in that way. 3. We approve the principle of individual churches designating certain funds as available for equaliza- tion in the state. Franklin H. 'arner William Horace Day Mrs. B. Foster Updike EXHIBIT REPORT OF C Ol-riTT^F ON ACC QUITTING METHODS The Committee on Accounting Methods addressed to the conference offices a questionnaire regarding their methods of accounting and of auditing. Replies were received from all except Missouri, Nebraska, New York and Ohio, and were summarized and presented to the Committee by the Financial Secretary of the Commis si on. The members of the Committee have reviewed the data and find no evidence of irregularity or carelessness. A high standard of business method and efficiency appears to prevail, and no suspicion arises which would lead to any recommendation for further investigation. Lucius E. Thayer A. V/. Pagerstrom Henry K. Hyde II. M. Pflager EXHIBIT "G" REPORT OF C Ol.uVITTEE ON LARGE GIFTS To develop a plan for the securing of large gifts for the missionary and benevolent enterprises of cur denomination was the task assigned to the above named committee, Unfortunately, the committee has not been able to meet together as a committee. Some correspondence has taken place between the Chairman and the two ether members of the committee, Dr. Krom and tlr. Tins bhner, and one per- sonal interview between the Chairman and Dr. Burton, It was hoped that the Committee could meet in Chicago preceding the January meetings. Unfortunately, this has been found impracticable. The current needs of our benevolent and missionary enterprises are met in large part from the proceeds of the apportionment plan. There can be no reasonable criticism of the apportionment pj.an, but it is a fact generally well known to those who are experienced in raising money that undeiJ such a plan or in cooperation with it, it is not easy to secure large individual gifts. The current needs are further met from voluntary gifts to the individual societies from those who have during the past years been successfully interested in the several s ocieties. If the field could be divided and individuals segregated according to their interests, it might be possible to pursue this plan and secure increasingly large individual gifts, but it would have in it always the element of competition and could lead nowhere except to serious differences and con- troversies if carried out to its logical conclusion. To meet deficits in the treasuries of the several organ- izations, there have been issued from time to time emergency appeals with the natural result that there have been some large individual gifts obtained, but this method of course will not establish a permanent constituency of large givers. For the purpose of securing endowment and for the devel- opment of building and other expansion plans, there has been no denomination-wide plan. Each society has carried on its program as opportunities have permitted. It is a well known fact that large gifts are obtained most easily for endowment, permanent equipment and other expansion* It would seem logical, therefore, to attempt in some way to establish a denominational program looking toward -2 - EXHIBIT "G"(am'fc) this desirable end. It should be observed that persons familiar with denominational giving are of the opinion that the members of our denomination are very generous in their gifts to general philanthropic and educational movements. They are usually leaders in civic enterprises,. There are observers who say that, they are the most generous in the average community and it is probably true also that the'adherents to Congregationalism are possessed of a larger per capita means than any other Protestant denomination, if these facts be indeed facts, then we have not availed ourselves of the re- sources of the denomination for its tested benevolent and missionary enterprises. Out of years of experience it is clear that large gifts are always difficult,, if not impossible, to obtain for debts, deficits and generally for current ©Derations* barge gifts are available for the purposes set forth above; that is, land, buildings, equipment and enterprises of a permanent character. Out of the experience of similar organizations it has been discovered that there are certain methods by which large gifts can be obtained,, a* An intensive educational campaign including issuing carefully prepared printed matter and the preparation of budgets for building, ex- pans ion and endowment purposes and the dis- tribution of the same to a very carefully selected and somewhat limited list of pros- pects. b. The personal presentation to individuals or small groups, families, foundations, etc* c. The organization of small groups of key men and women for the purpose of opening up channels through which appeals can be made. Can such a program be worked out through our existing denominational organization and machinery* Is it not true that our organizations are governed by Boards of Trustees who regard themselves primarily as trustees and not as promoters or solicitors of trie enter- prise in hand - custodians rather than collectors ? It would be hardly likely therefore that boards made up in that way could be organized to go out into the field to secure large gifts. The Board secretaries are administrators with here and there a man who has become conspicuously successful as a solicitor of money. Bach Board secretary, however, has his EXHIBIT nGT lCONT*El -3- local and particular interest* it is difficult to enlist him in a task which has for its fundamental principle- the wish of the doner must govern the destination of the gift* To cultivate the "broader field of the denomination by the larger use of Board secretaries has in it elements of difficulty. The Commission on Missions is in a class by itself and was doubtless created through a desire to coordinate the appeal to our constituency, and it is therefore logical that any development of an appeal to the whole denomination must be made under its general supervision and possibly nven under its very definite authority. If the Commission on Missions has the authority at this timev or can obtain it, then we would suggest some methods that may be put into operation. Here follow the methods: a. The Commission should appoint a represent- ative committee composed of both laymen and clergymen, with the understanding that service would be continued through a period of from three to five years. b. In conference with the boards of the mission- any and b e ue r o le nt or g an i z at i ons , a bud get of permanent needs should be prepared annually, including equipment and endowments. c» This budget should be offered to selected groups * d. It will be found impossible to succeed in any comprehensive plan without an employed leadership. e. The cooperation and wholehearted support of the National Council, the state conferences and the local churches will be necessary. f. To secure this cooperation, a program of information will have to be undertaken and there will probably be slow progress in this direction. g. The accumulation of a list of donors both within the membership of the church and from friends of the church. This list would in- net more than five thousand persons, to be selected from among the eight hundred thousand adherents to the denomination. EXHIBIT "G"(CONT'D) -4.« This list would for in the basis of a thorough-going program of education and personal contact,to be carried out through the committee from the Commission as hereinbefore mentioned, and to make this effective the most skillful and highly experienced organiaer of financial enterprises will have to be employed. William Knowies Cooper A. E. Krom C. H. Kirschner EXHIBIT "H" REPORT OP COMMITTEE ON LITERATURE Y/e have interviewed both pastors and laymen in an endeavor to ascertain their opinion of the literature which was boing sent out# YJe have also consulted personally with the Secretaries of the Boards as well as the Secretaries of the Commission on Missions. The report falls under three main divisions; (A) Pacts (B) The Problem Involved (C) Recommendations (A) PACTS 1. Cost. YJe find that the cost of educational and promotion- al literature is approximately $192^578, or a little more than 6% of our income. On the basis of our askings, 05,000,000, it would be nearly which is not excessive when it is kept in mind that this amount covers our entire educational program. Confusion. The material is going to the churches from so many sources that the result is confusion to ministers and laymen alike, and little of it is Used. The assumption aeemg to be that the churches prefer to have things divided up for them and to receive a flood of material from which they can select what they like. Y/e find this to be a wrong assumption. 3. Over-Production. As a result of this policy we have over- production, we believe that less material, better edited, would simplify our whole educational and promotional program and make that program more effective. 4* Educational and Promotional. We find that the material under discussion is of two kinds, - educational and promotion- al, - no definite line can be drawn between them. There is, however, a difference which has not been sufficiently taken into account in the production and distribution of the present output. 5. Missionary Magazines. YJe find among the churches a very general desire for one missionary magazine. We note with approval the "Missionary Herald" covering the interests of the American Board and Woman's Boards. In its first issue it states that it is "Bigger, Better, Broader". We believe that the churches would feel that it was bigger, better and broader still if it included "The American Missionary". (B) THE PROBLEM INVOLVED On the basis of these facts the committee feels that there are two main elements in the problem. 1. The kind of literature which is most effective in accom- EXHIBIT "K" (CONT'D) -2- plishing the result sought. These results are, first, educational; second, promotional. 2, Unifying our output so as to avoid confusion and expend- iture of money for material which overlaps and burns over the same ground. (C) RECOMMENDATIONS We recommend the following kinds of missionary material which we believe to be most effective: EDUCATIONAL: 1. Mission Study Books? nothing is more productive in the way of attracting attention of the church to our missionary program than the School of Missions. Here text-books are in- dispensable. We recommend those put out by the Missionary Educational Movement. There might be to very good advantage a supplement dealing with what the Congregational churches are doing in the fields covered by the various Boards. 2. Programs. Missionary Programs for mid-week services similar toThose prepared by the American Board. These should include the interests of the whole denomination, - home and foreign. In this connection the programs as arranged by the Woman's Boards should be mentioned. 3* Children. Stories, as "Here and There Stories"; programs for chiI3r'en*7 as "World Friendship" and the "Christian Con- quest Program"; the "Mission Cradle Roll", which should be worked with the Church School Cradle Roll; the missionary magazine "Everyland" and simple plays. We find that the material for the foreign field is much more ample than that for the home field. The latter should be strengthened. 4. News Items. Material which carries the human quality of news, as "The Finvelope Series" of the American Board; news items prepared by the Commission on Missions for church cal- endars. Church calendars reach the largest constituency of readers and may be used profitably to a much greater extent for the dissemination of missionary information. 5. Definite Objects. That which is published with very definite objects to accomplish, as, for example, literature which accompanies the "Sunday School Benevolent Chart". 6. Material which appeals through the eye, as charts, pictures, stereopticon, pageantry, 7. For the Minister. The minister must not be forgotten as he holds the key to the situation. When we get our ministers thinking in terms of $5,000,000 a year we shall reach the goal. The minister needs to be educated in a missionary -3- EXHIBIT "H" (CONT'D) program. For him "The Envelope Series" and "Ammunition" sent out "by the American Board are invaluable. Material similar to these publications, covering our home missionary task, puts the iuices of life into his sermons. Our missionary magazines should have more and stronger re- views of our best books, not only missionary but books which bear indirectly upon the problems of christianizing the world. It might be added that material appearing in tract form eventually would be more widely read by laymen and ministers if it were published in our missionary magazines. PROMOTIONAL: Th6 Committee also has studied carefully the kind of literature which is most effective promotionally. Here we enter the field of advertising. Advertising*Ts~an appeal through the printed word to fundamental motives for a specific object. (1) Fundamental Principles. The printing should be attract- ivelydone, with free use of pictures and in different colors. Much of the material sent us fails in this respect. Advertising is an appeal to fundamental motives, the chief of which is investment. Advertising is an appeal for a very definite object, which should stand out clearly. Confusion arising from repeated appeals from different sources is disastrous. (2) Organization. Those who have had wide experience in money-raising place great stress upon organization. Campaigns for securing money in the local churches often fail for ad- equate "setting-up". In not a few cases they simply do not know how to go about it. be recommend as a guide in this matter "How to Raise Money For a Church", by Merritt Lum, and published by the Commission on Missions, or "Brass Tacks in Benevolence". (3) Foundations. Fully appreciating what experts say, we still are of the opinion that in our specific program of raising $5,000,000 a year for our missionary enterprises, there is something which lies back of advertising and organ- ization. These alone cannot carry us through. Your Committee is impressed with the energy and money which are necessary to induce Christians to do their duty. Some- EXHIEIT "H" (CONT'D) -4- thing is wrong with our religious life as a church. This means that our evangelism is amiss, Paul commends the church in Macedonia for their liberality and gives the secret, - "They first gave themselves to the Lord1', We therefore feel that the work of the Commission on Evangelism and its liters- ture has a most fundamental bearing on our missionary program. Stewardship should be given a prominent place in most of our churches. This, as well as evangelism, is working at the problem of benevolence near the foundation. We note in the samples of promotional literature sent us a scarcity of mater- ial dealing distinctly with stewardship. We believe that more might be issued to advantage. We offer the following Recommendations: (1) coordination in respect to our educational program. We have an overlapping of the various agencies interested in missionary education. For example, in Illinois the Education Society, through its missionary department, puts out a pro- gram. Dr. Gammon of the Western office is interested in promoting this program through the Sunday Schools and various Young People's organizations. The W. B. M. I. has its pro- gram which it promotes through three secretaries. The Illinois W. H. M. U. ha^ objects in its plan of work for young people and children and expects its secretary to push these. Then each of the various homeland Societies through which the Union works sends its appeals, asking that its work be stressed in certain ways. We submit that this is too much machinery and our educational program should be unified. (2) It is recommended that the State or District offices be the distributing points, all literature in these respective states or districts to go through the one office. Of course there must be distribution from the offices of the Sooieties whenever the local church or an individual desires specific literature bearing upon a specific object. (3) It is recommended in respect to the production of literature that an editor be employed by the Commission on Missions whose business it shall be to prepare the publica- tions of the Commission and to have an advisory relationship to the several Societies. The plan involved in these recommendations will eliminate much of the confusion which now exists with pastors and churches. The money which will be saved thereby will more than pay the salary of an editor and the expenses of his office. (4) Missionary Magazines. To recommend one missionary magazine for the denomination might appear as a counsel of EXHIBIT "H" (CONT'D) • 5- perfection, owing to the arrangement just made between the American Board and the Woman's Boards whereby the consolida- tion of their magazines has been effected. However, we wish to express our desire that in the not distant future this consummation may be realized. In reviewing the literature and considering the problems Involved as a result of reading Secretary Burton's report, we appreciate in a new way that the missionary work of our denom ination is crossed by instrumentalities and consequently in-, peded, If there is the will to simplify by unifioation"we shall find the way, C. C, Adams, Chairman A. L, Gillett (Not present for final approval of report) C. C. Merrill L. A, Wilson Margaret Taylor EXHIBIT "Xn CERTIFIES RSPR3SEH?A?IVES OF WQIIAH'S ORftAITIiSAglOHS PRESBKT A.J THE KEEI'IHS OF THE C0I.1I.II53I0H OH KISSIOEiS, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS,JANUARY £4-£&, 1923. WQIM'S HOME MISSIONARY RgOSRATIOtT California - *Mrs. H.S.Ranneyt5an Francisco ;LIiss Edith Sanderson, Oakland. Georgia - Mrs. L. H. Keller, Atlanta. Ic'wa - Mrs. 0. B. Somers, Grinnell; Mrs, J ,.B .Hams ay , Oilman. Indiana - Mrs. Timothy Earrison,Indianapolis ; Mrs.G.M.Bartiett, Indianapolis. Illinois - Mr s.J.J, Kolmos,Mayv.rood; Mrs.Della SmeltztChicago;Miss Margaret Taylor ,Chicago ; Mrs Ji'.K.Smith,Chicago ;Mrs«J.A. Falconer,Oak Park; Mrs.R.A.Matthews ,La Grange ;Mrs.-,F«G. Ward (visitor) Chicago;Mrs.Carl Stackman.Chicago ;Mrs. G.A.Rogers.Chicago;Mrs.F.L.Holch,Glen Bllyn.Mrs«J.W. Fischer,Wheaton ;Mrs.G.B.Drake,Chicago ;Mrs.Hattie Jimison (colored) Chicago;Mrs«.3.W.Loveland.Chicago;Mrs.Sadie Adams (colored) Chicago:Mrs.F.A.Holland,Chicago;*Mrs. Wm.E.Barton,Oak park;llrs .R.W*patrI ck,Chicago ;Mrs«C.C. Merrill,Oak Park. Massachusetts & Rhode Island - Mrs.C.E.Blake, providence, H.I. ' ~~ Miss Leora ir. Taft,Boston, Mass. Missouri - Mrs.H..M.Pflager,St.Louis ;Mrs.C.B.Curtis, St,Louis. Michigan - Mrs. H. L. Wilton, Gross© lie. Minnesota - Mrs