The Daily Alaska Empire

ARE THE CHURCHES NOT RESPONSIBLE?

In another place in this paper is an editorial from the Christian Herald, written over the signature of the Rev. Charles M. Sheldon, D. D., author of "In His Steps" and other books and for many years editor-in-chief of the Herald for which he continues to contribute editorials and other matter. Dr. Sheldon presents the facts that are relied upon to sustain their conclusions by those who think the churches are losing influence and by those who see the silver lining of the clouds.

He admits that churches are poorly attended; that people are studying life as it is; that the "feeling among the masses is one of apathy in the presence of religious enthusiasm," and that "public speakers and reformers will all agree that there was never a time in America when there was so little response to ideals."

On the other hand he shows that there were never so many Bibles sold as now, that the press of the country was never so ready to present the truths of the Christian religion, and that never before was there so much time and thought given to the welfare of children and workers.

Dr. Sheldon leaves the picture with his readers to decide whether civilization is slipping or advancing.

It would seem that people are still interested in religion and in the welfare of the masses, that they are continuing to progress, but are losing interest in the churches.

Therefore, is it not the fault of the churches that people are turning their backs upon them?

Is not the lack of interest in the churches due to the fact that so many of them have gone afield?

In too many instances the church leaders have taken their organizations into politics. Too many preachers have become "howling bulls!"

They have abandoned the lowly paths pursued by the Master and, with loud voice and the flourish and trappings of the transient passion for jazz, they have fared forth to capture spotlight and political leadership. They have ceased to rely on the teachings of the Word to lead individuals toward better things and have placed their dependence upon securing statutes and armed men to force people to accept their standards of thought, morals and practice. They have given up teaching and preaching and have made themselves leaders of political machines.

If the churches would regain the confidence of the masses the first thing they should do is to withdraw from politics. They should cease to depend upon securing laws and armed policemen to force people to accept hand-me-down standards of living and thinking and place their reliance upon educating and persuading individuals to accept the teaching and example of the Man of Nazareth.