BISHOP LAURENCE CYRUS SIMON, DISTINGUISHED PASTOR AND ORATOR.

        Of the hundreds of Louisiana Baptist pulpiteers there are none stronger than Elder Simon, who was born March 8, 1858, at Youngville, La. His parents were Mr. Thomas and Mrs. Delia Simon. From youth he had a bright intellect. His school age and Emancipation coming about the same time surrounded him with meager opportunities for going to school. However, his parents did what they could for him, and notwithstanding hardships he continued struggling upward until the good fortune of entering Leland University, New Orleans, La., came his way. He hailed this privilege with delight, and very soon was enrolled among Leland's students. Here he became a hard student, usually leading his classes.

        He was not alone interested in his own welfare at the University, but was much concerned about the other boys. The writer will not forget the kindness and help that came to him at Leland from the hands of this good man. Elder Simon continued his studies and stayed in Leland's molds of preparation until he had about finished the Normal Course.

        He is noted for his humor, wit and sound judgment, and has but few equals when it comes to doing things, believing thoroughly in the doctrine of doing things BY DOING THEM. More than once has he captured with his wonderful oratory the great National Baptist Convention, and swayed that great audience to and fro like a forest in a tempest.

        He was converted in 1873, baptized by Bishop R. R. Dyeis, preached his first sermon July, 1875, and was ordained March 26, 1881. He has preached the Word with power and demonstration to the Baptist churches at Lafayette, La., Morgan City, La., and Opelousas, La., where he has held forth the Word of Truth for the past 22 years.

        For twelve years he was Moderator of the Seventh District Baptist Association. This position he held with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his brethren. At the expiration of these twelve years this Christian body with much reluctance gave up this great thinker and worker, who had been their Moses through all these years of sunshine and storm. During his administration the Association founded and paid for a District High School with a valuation of $20,000. Brother Simon stands well in his community, and his worth as a man and as a preacher is not only acknowledged in his District and state but throughout the United States.

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