# LCMS Convention Proceedings_St. Louis Missouri_1944_S190
# Machine transcription, uncorrected — CHI Digital Archive (demonstration)

190 oe Missions

more are making regular payments, and several others are now
seriously considering the advantage of acquiring their church home.
Possession or ownership naturally calls for greater- responsibility,
and the two together create more stability in. the mission. This
development is a distinct forward movement. Closely connected
with this movement is that of assuming greater responsibility in
the matter of salaries. Ten congregations have assumed the entire
‘responsibility for their pastors’ salaries, The great majority of
those Who are still drawing a subsidy on pastor’s salary have
boosted their contributions to provide a necessary salary increase
for their pastor, Congregations are ‘subsidized by the Missionary
Board for the teachers’ salaries,

Debt Reduction.— We are thankful to report that complete
liquidation of a burdensome debt is in sight. While in fact a debt
of $23,850 as of March 31, 1944, remains, owing to long-term notes,
we are assured that the necessary funds will be on hand as these
notes mature, - .

In Africa

With profound gratitude to God we are able to report that His
blessings have been renewed from year to year.

The statistical report for 1943 indicates 10,106: baptized members
(an increase of 3,845 over the report of 1941); 3,125 communicants
(an increase of 938); pupils in the various schools 2,679;
churches 59 (increase of 15). The Central School at Obot Idim
has an enrollment of 320 pupils; and the Girls’ School 126 pupils.

Two Seminary, students are working among the Ibos, laying
the foundation for future work among the Ibo language people.

The former Seminary building (native construction) is no
more. Suitable Seminary buildings will be erected when war re-
strictions are lifted.

The Girls’ School has increased its enrollment by 94 during
the past three years. Miss C. Rapier, principal, returned to the
States in February, 1943, on account of illness. Meanwhile native
teachers have carried on the work. (These teachers receive their
salary from the School.)

Missionaries. — God has blessed our Mission with capable and
consecrated men, who have discharged their duties admirably.

Rev. V. W. Koeper returned to the States in July, 1943, having
spent four continuous years in Nigeria. Rev. J. P. Kretzmann re-
turned to the States in February, 1944, after serving four and one
half years. War conditions are responsible for the extended time
of service. Since January, 1944, the Mission had to forego the
presence of a white worker on the field. However, arrangements
were perfected by the white workers whereby the Mission could
be carried on until other white workers would arrive. Two native -