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::R0670 : page 2::

LEGAL INCORPORATION

ZION’S WATCH TOWER TRACT SOCIETY,

though it has already done a great work, and in the hand of God has been a power in publishing the truth, the influence which is being felt already on both sides of the Atlantic, has never yet had legal incorporation. Nor was such incorporation considered necessary by its friends, it having already all the powers necessary for the present work and similar to that of nine-tenths of other small societies.

But a new phase of the question has arisen. It seems tolerably certain that some of the saints will be in the flesh during a great part at least of the “time of trouble,” and if so, there will be need of printed matter, tracts, etc., as much then, perhaps, as now, and possibly will be more heeded, for when the judgments of the Lord are “in the earth the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.” (Isa. 26:9.) Should those at present prominently identified with the work not be the last to be “changed,” some interruption of the work might result; but this may be obviated by having a legal standing, granted by a State Charter.

Another matter also has been considered: Two or more who had already contributed to the funds of the society, suggested that as age was coming on and opportunities for earning a living decreasing they could not now give more largely without endangering penury and leaving themselves a burden on their friends, which they could not see to be the Lord’s will; yet they are desirous that in some way they might be able to put the Lord’s money (consecrated to Him) into His work. This naturally suggested the idea that there might be many others similarly situated and with similar ideas. Such moneys or other property donated by “Will” to the society it might be unable to receive or dispose of, unless it had a charter.

From all these considerations it was deemed best to apply for a charter; and this has been done. We expect that it will be granted without delay, and in that event you will learn more concerning the matter in our next issue.

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— October, 1884 —