"... In 1922, with an income of only $5-$10 per week, I contracted to purchase ten acres of land between Lake Swan and Lake Rosa to start a conference ground for the Southeastern District (CMA). The first building was erected, and the first conference was held in 1927."
~ Dr. John Minder
"Reverend John Minder, a red-haired giant of a man from Switzerland, was dean of men. He was an inspiration to Graham. Minder saw Billy as a spindly farm boy with lots of nail-biting energy, a mediocre academic record, and a zeal to serve Christ that exceeded his knowledge and skill."
~ Dr. Billy Graham
"On a blustery, cold Saturday, they met Cecil Underwood, a lay preacher who was pastoring the nearby Peniel Baptist Church. Mr. Underwood invited Dr. Minder to preach the following evening at a small Baptist church in Bostwick. "No," he answered frankly, "Billy is going to preach." Billy was stunned at the response of his professor."