142 NINETEENTH REPORT. 



people its way, supply their needs, and reduce them to a feeling of 

 dependence. When tlie populace lias been drawn into this religious- 

 social atmos})here, the work of evangelizing society may be said to have 

 truly begun. 



Such is the task of the future country church. Its very existence 

 depends upon whether it accepts this responsibility. But there are signs 

 in the times whicli lead one to think the awakening has already come. 

 It is more in evidence perhaps among the progressive churches of our 

 cities, for the cities l\^ve always led the way in up-to-date reform. But 

 the spirit of criticism that is abroad today cannot long be deterred from 

 spreading to the country. And so one must feel inclined to jjrophesy 

 that the country church is about to be aroused to a renewed activity, 

 which will eventually lead to a reestablishment in its rightful place as 

 a leader in rural life. 



University of Michigan. 



