On the first of October 1895 I entered McCormick Seminary. Immediately
feeling the need of identifying myself with the church I accordingly
became a member of the Church of the Covenant, Dr. W. S. Plummer Bryan,
pastor. It is impossible to set down in words the comfort,
encouragement and assistance that has come to me through this relation.
Dr. Bryan has been to me a steadfast and faithful friend. His sermons
have been to me a continual source of instruction in things spiritual
and divine. Many of them have left a lasting impression upon my mind.
One I remember with great distinctness. It was upon the last seven
words of Christ, so real and vivid did the scene appear that the whole
of that mournful tragedy was enacted before my eyes. Concerning the
Church of the Covenant I can say with David, "If I forget thee, Oh
Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember
thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth, if I prefer not
Jerusalem above my chief joy." Even though I were on the other side of
the globe, I will not forget the kindness of the church and its pastor.
Naturally my life at the seminary at first was lonesome; but as soon as
I became acquainted with professors and students the seminary became a
home to me much prized and enjoyed. From my studies I derived much
pleasure. Systematic Theology was to me a continual banquet of
delicacies. In Pastoral Theology and Homiletics I was inspired with the
high and sacred duties of the Christian ministry.
By the study of Greek Exegesis I was taught the invaluable benefit that
comes from close attention to the original texts and manuscripts which
are the source of interpretation in the study of New Testament Greek.
In Old and New Testament literature belief in inspiration was
reinforced and fortified. The whole scheme of the Christian religion
was to me rendered plain and reasonable.
MY CLASS.
The class of 1897 is unique and original among all the classes
graduated from McCormick Seminary. It was said by one in position to
know, that it was perhaps the strongest class ever sent out from the
Seminary. This was evidenced by the character of the orations delivered
at the Graduating Exercises. Among this class are many who will be
adorned by degrees and honorary titles. All, I hope, will meet with
much success in winning souls to Christ.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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