The members of the Baptist World Alliance, meeting in Stockholm, recognize with thankfulness that there are many signs of hope on the far horizon, in spite of the fact that the war spirit is still at work among the nations. The sense of the horror and wickedness of war has burnt itself deeply into the heart and conscience of all the members of our churches.
The Baptist World Alliance expresses its gratification that the Russian delegates have been able to attend the Congress, and it welcomes them heartily. It feels that the situation is now more favourable for the carrying out of the original purpose of the College Fund, and it refers the whole matter, including Dr. Cree’s proposals, for the careful consideration of the Executive Committee. The Executive shall be authorized to take any further counsel which may be advisable with the Boards concerned.
That this Congress accords its whole-hearted approval of the important work being done in and through the Baptist churches of the world to secure, by the adoption of the principle and practice of Total Abstinence, and by governmental action, the removal of the evils wrought by the use of intoxicating drinks, and the total elimination of the drink traffic.
That there now be formed the World Baptist Young People’s Union, the aim of which shall be the uniting of the young Baptists in all countries; the contribution, membership and organization shall be discussed and determined by the World Baptist Young People’s Committee.
A resolution of thanks from the many groups of suffering Baptists on the continent, to those who had succoured them, was presented by the Rev. F. W. Simoleit, of Germany, and was accepted.
Special congratulation was also given on the wonderful progress made by Swedish Baptists in their 75 years history, and on the singular devotion shown in that for every 600 members, they maintain one missionary abroad, thus standing at the head of all lands in this respect.
A resolution of thanks to the Baptists of Sweden for their hospitality to the Congress was moved by Rev. L. N. Scarborough, D.D., LL.D., and carried by a standing vote.
Dr. Prestridge : It falls to me and is my great pleasure to read these resolutions of thanks. I think that is fitting because for two or three months I have been in daily correspondence,—and sometimes three and four times a day,—with the various chairmen of the committees here, and I know of their labors, of their afflictions and of their patience:
Whereas, We hail with joy the fact that the Baptist World Alliance is giving such a large place to the social aspect of the gospel and the duty of Christian people to human society; and
Whereas, There is a growing conviction that Christianity is to dominate human life in all its relations, that it is Christ’s purpose to bring the blessings of the kingdom into the life of all men and that it is man’s duty to apply Christian principles to existing conditions in human society, and
“That this Baptist World Alliance, representing eight millions (8,000,000) and more of Baptists all over the earth, expresses its thankfulness to God for the brightening prospects of the extinction of war and the arrival of universal peace and good will.