The Birmingham age-herald., 1921-09-16
M E N, w o M E N
 A ND T H IN. G s

Snavely of the Birmingham-S Southern college Is built on broad lines, for he had me, Baptist preacher, to make talk at the opening of the school on Wednesday morning.
 l am glad that the denominations are finding out that the twentieth century is no time for useless de- bates over we'll defined issues, but that the spirit of the time calls for cooperation on the great fundamen- tals common to all.
 l had only recently spoken at the opening of Howard college, and it gave me a genuine pleasure to know that l was wanted for a similar serv- ice at the Birmingham Southern. These two denominational institu- tiens, the one on the eastern and the other on the western edge of Greater Birmingham, both crownlng hillsides, are lights to the city.
 
 It makes no difference whether one belongs to the Methodists, Bap- lists, Presbyterians or any of the other churches, it ought to be a mat ter of common pride that two such worthy Christian colleges are within the bounds of the Magic City. They deserve the support of all who prize education which boldly takes it's stand upon the teachings of the great Teacher, and puts character above culture, yet realizing that the two can be had together.
 Dr. SnaYely in his address stressed the fact that the very right of the existence of Birmingham Southern college was broad. Based on the fact that it's main business was to put em- phasis on Christian education, and that while none of the regular work of an up-to-date college would be in the least minimized, yet he would count that the institution had failed unless those who went out from it's doors into the world were better fitted for Christian service than when they matriculated.
 l was greatly pleased with the finality of his remarks in regard to discipline. He let it be known in no uncertain terms that those stu dents who had registered might as we'll understand from the first that they were amenable to the rules of the institution, and that everyone of them would be compelled to live up to them or be sent home. He has the fashioned idea that the presi- dent, faculty and board of trustees have certain well defined duties in maintaining order, and that parents have the right to expect them to be firm with the matriculates.
 But while he rang a true note of authority, and was particularly ad- amantine in regard to hazing, which he said would not be tolerated at all, but meant instant dismissal, yet he was at pains to let the student body understand that he was in favor of encouraging college spirit, and outlined way to inaugurate sys- tenn which would call forth certain stunts which would give an outlet for any exuberance from those who wanted fun and excitement.
 
 Dr. L. c. Branscomb, editor of the Alabama Christian Advocate, who has made it the talk of southern Methodism, was the first speaker, and made profound impression with his straightforward and manly address. He was followed by Dr. Robert Echols, presiding elder of the Birmingham district, who dwelt upon the need of their getting in line with scme definite form of religious work while in college, stating that Dr. Dobbs, the pastor of the Owenton church, was a man who was deeply interested in young men and women, and could be relied on for encour- agement and sympathy.
 never visit the Birmingham Southern without being impressed with the marvellous beauty of it's To- cation, and I hope to live to see the day when the whole hill will be thick with handsome buildings to care for the growth of the college. I was greatly gratified at the heartiness of my reception by the president, fac ulty and trustees, and at the kindli- ness of the audience. Everyone seemed to try and make me forget for the hour that I was lone Baptist among throng of Methodists.