The Colorado statesman., 1912-04-06

Ex-Governor Northern of Georgia, in
his appeal to the southern people for
religious help in behalf of the ne
gro, uttered some very sane remarks
In reference to the activity of religious
bodies, favoring the salvation of AT
rlca; but, apparently, unmindful of the
dense heathenism residing in our
midst. There is something peculiar
In our efforts to cultivate the field of
others in a distant cline, when our
own territory, under direct supervi-
Sion, Is suffering from neglect. 1t
would be better by far If our ener-
gies, in support of domestic missions,
were doubled. The fruits derived
therefrom would present themselves
In realities, such as could be sen and
appreciated by those with whom they
come in contact. The most thorough
preparation is required to perform sue
cessful duties in the department of
heathendom; and this preparation
should be perfected before an under
taking is attempted. 1t is true, per-
haps, that Africa, the greater part,
stands In need of redemption; but 1t is
true, likewise, that America, as a
whole, cannot boast the intelligence of
angels; and if the inhabitants of the
Dark Continent are more deeply
stupid in ignorance and superstition
than many of these surrounding us,
their condition is pitiable indeed. The
gospel is effective only to those who
are sufficiently enlightened to under
O sol h. .lrNf -
conduct between man and man, and
a willing obedience to the commands
of God. Whatever might be the zeal
which prompts activity in missionary
pursuits, little of Importance, in re-
ligious elevation can be accomplish
ed in the absence of intellectual cul-
tivation.
Religion may be begotten of belief;
but 1t must be nurtured by practicing
the things which SAVIOR of righteous
ness, ere we are properly entitled to
lay claim to its possession. This is
a point of vital consideration which
very many of our Southern neighbors
appear to overlook. We believe that
Ex-Governor Northern is sincere in
his advocacy of the spiritual uplift
of the negro. We believe he has given
his services in earnest endeavor to i'm
prove the situation of the race; but
there are errors to be corrected and
powerful agencies to be combated ere
the period of his desired consumma-
tion is attained. An educational cam
paign is necessary as the forerunner
of wished-for results; and If those gen.
tlemen who are benignly interested in
the welfare of the negro would bestir
themselves on this particular subject,
much of the opposition which he now
encounters would lose its force There
is something of mystery in our de.
sire for the bestowal of spiritual bless
ings without the materials necessary
to their usage. Benighted souls can
better realize the benefits of light aft
er darkness shall have been dispelled.
All methods utilized in the regenera-
ton of any people, except those which
pass through the channel of enlighten-
ed understanding, will avail very lit
tie towards uplifting the racial stand
ard
These are our opinions concerning
ih5 hioie Vi lue zeal Win WHICH we
are affected, regarding Those we term
our brethren in despair. Should the
enthusiasts modify their tactics re-
specting the negro in Africa and the
negro in America, radical changes for
good could be wrought within decade.
and wonders now undreamed of would
be the reward of labor
We welcome, however, the sympa-
thy and aid of such as the ex-govern-
ors type; for influences such as theirs
can do much to tighten the weight of
our burdens