ADVANTAGES OF MINISTRY

Rev. Endicott Peabody h.'04, headmaster of Groton School, gave an interesting lecture in the Union last evening, explaining clearly and forcefully the advantages to be derived by a man entering the ministry.

The three great qualities of the ministry as a profession are its breadth, its depth, and its height. To scholars its opportunities are great for writing, for leading national religious thought, and for teaching in theological schools. It is thought that a narrow line of thought is prescribed for ministers, but this is not the case. The search for new truth is encouraged and its results are gladly received on all sides. As a schoolmaster, the minister is given an opportunity to develop in young men the qualities of spiritual manhood. As a missionary, he can exert a powerful influence in molding the future civilization of the east. A parish minister can organize his parish house, clubs, and social settlements with the great advantage of working solely for the good of others.

The depth of the ministry demands study for the understanding of a man's own belief and the power to allay spiritual doubts in others. The minister is privileged to see the bottom of friendship and of sorrow. That men and women turn to him in distress, is one of the greatest joys of his life. Such incidents raise the height of the ministry to a level reached by few other professions. Constant contact with the highest ideals leads inevitably to a more satisfying life.

There are also three points to be considered in the choice of a profession: its need of the man, his personal qualifications, and his natural bent. Our country has accomplished practically nothing permanent in this line, while maintenance of high standards is necessary to progress. A man should have a good education and fair ability, but this latter attribute is sure to increase by the aid of faith. A man must decide for himself whether he is called to the ministry. It has the advantage of surely bringing peace and satisfaction to the end.