they are compelled to do in order to reach their children. In this way,
and by making generous contributions of their members to the English
churches, they are doing their full share in the general work of church
extension in the English language.

They send their sons into the ministry to an extent that has not been
approached by our English churches. (See Appendix under Sons of the
Church.) Nearly all of these are bi-lingual in their ministerial work
and many of them serve exclusively English churches. There is a proverb
about killing the goose that lays the golden egg, which we would do well
to bear in mind.

Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, founded by Dr. Walther and the Germans
of Missouri, numbers 344 students. Candidates for graduation must be
able to minister in at least two languages. In a polyglot church such as
ours this would seem to be a policy worthy of imitation.

The fifteen languages in which we minister to our people confer upon us
an honorable distinction. Each one represents an individuality which
cannot be ignored, some spiritual gift which is worth exercising and
preserving. By keeping in touch with this many-sided life we enrich our
own lives, obtain broader conceptions of the church's mission, and fit
ourselves for more effective service in this most cosmopolitan city of
the world. Instead of trying to exterminate these languages, let us
cultivate a closer acquaintance with them and let us pray for that
pentecostal spirit which will enable us to say "we do hear them speak in
our tongues the wonderful works of God."


The Problem of Membership