p. 14 | The Arkansas Camp-Meeting (Colored) by J. W. Dancer

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 7, 1911

The Arkansas Camp-Meeting (Colored)

By J. W. Dancer

THE camp-meeting for the colored believers of this State was held in Pine Bluff, August 10-20. Although the date was changed, the meeting being held two weeks earlier than was at first planned, there was quite a full attendance of the believers.

Elder C. S. Lightner, of Crescent, Okla., was the only colored minister from outside the State in attendance. We appreciated having him with us. He preached several times, and his instruction was well received by all present.

Elder J. W. Norwood and Brother

J. A. Tucker were with us a portion of each day during nearly the whole of the camp-meeting. They used, alternately, the 10 A. M. and 3 P. M. preaching periods, studying principles with us, making free use of the Bible and the Testimonies. Elder Norwood dealt with tithing, the spirit of prophecy, unity, church discipline, etc. Brother Tucker, being the State missionary secretary, considered different phases of the canvassing work. He drew some good lessons from the early Reformers, especially Martin Luther and the Waldenses.

The entire camp was divided into prayer bands, with a leader for each, and some time during the day each band assembled for prayer and Bible study. There was no definite hour fixed, but each band was left free to meet according to its convenience. Good effects were manifest from the work of these bands, and perfect harmony existed throughout the camp.

It rained considerably during the meeting, causing some discomfort in the tents; nevertheless we did not miss a single service because of it. The night services were well attended by those not of our faith when it was not raining hard at the time for service. The preaching at night was practical, and dealt with points of our faith calculated to arouse the people from their carnal security. Brethren R. L. Bradford and D. R. Richardson will remain in Pine Bluff for a while to follow up the interest.

Though all of us are in moderate circumstances, yet we were willing to assist the cause to the extent of our ability. About seventy dollars was pledged. The last day of the meeting (Sunday) the writer baptized seven persons, all but two of whom had made their decision to take this step during the meeting. At the close of the service Sunday night, as we sang the good old hymn, “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” and shook hands in farewell, we could not but think of the time soon to come when parting will be no more.

J. W. DANCER.