The Democratic press. [volume] (Ravenna, O. [Ohio]) 1868-1901, 1884-04-10
Pra.se services at oakwooa.


There was very full attendance at
the praise service held at Oakwood
Chapel, last Sabbath evening, it being
filled to ITS capacity, not only for seat
ing, but standing room. 1t being the
last of these meetings held under the
leadership of superintendent Butts
it was gratifying manifestation of the
esteem in which he is held, not only
by the School, but the community
which, if not so closely Identifying
itself with the School, has always
shown its appreciation of its Dement'S,
manifesting lively interest in its sue
cess and prosperity. For considera-
BILE period these meetings have been
held monthly or oftener, and have
proven to be of great benefit to all /; es-
pecially have they been profitable to
the younger members of the school.
They owe their origin and success to
the efforts of the Superintendent, who
has displayed most commendable
Christian zeal in laboring to promote
the prosperity of the school, not con-
filming his labors simply to the school
room, but carrying on the work of the
Master In the homes of the community.
The exercises were well conducted,
and the happy faces of the little boys
and girls was a most beautiful and
pleasing sight, making glad the hearts
of the older ones, who realized that
they wele leading the children in the
best possible path-leading them to
love the Sunday School, the nursery of
pure knowledge and morals.
AT the close Of program of recita-
tions and songs, w. G. Lacey, on be-
half of the School, presented Mr.. Butts
with an elegant album, stating that
during the four years of his superin-
tendency he had endeared himself to
every member of the school; that the
memory of his unselfish devotion
would be perpetuated in the minds of
all that it was the desire of the school
that he should be continued his own
successor for years to come, but a High
er Power had decreed otherwise that
it was unnecessary to recapitulate the
many acts be had reformed for Oak
wood the result was apparent in an
increased membership and better
system of instruction in the school
that he would still be held as mem
ber of Oakwood, which realized that
he would have its prosperity at heart
whether absent or present. Words
would poorly express the esteem in
which he was held by all assuring him
that the prayers of the school would
follow him wherever he might go, and
asking him to accept the gift as token
of the love, esteem and respect in
which he is held by all.
Mr.. Butts manifested much feeling
in his response, on the reception OF
this farewell token. He thanked the
School for its expression of Christian
love, for the hearty cooperation OF
teachers and officers, and exhorted all
to lift the Banner higher, and contin-
ne faithful to their high calling. He
stated that he had hoped to make Ra
VIENNA his home. and would have been
pleased to pass his days here; but ac
cepting what was in store for him, he
trusted that although separated here,
all would be united in the world of
peace and love. In conclusion, he
presented the School with q large and
elegant map of the Holy Land, for
which the thanks of its members was
rendered him.
The exercises were closed by singing
the Doxology, and each one departed
pleased with the services, but saddened
by parting with the Superintendent.
whose presence and counsel will be
greatly missed by the School.