p. 61 | CALIFORNIA by John Norton Loughborough

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jan 22, 1901

CALIFORNIA

By John Norton Loughborough

Since coming to California, I have met with our people on Valencia Street, San Francisco, two Sabbaths, and one Sabbath with the church on Laguna Street. At both these places I was glad to meet those who have become interested in, or have accepted, the truth since I was there about two years ago. In 1875 Sister White said that “San Francisco will ever be a missionary field.” And so it proves to be.

From December 15-27, in company with Brother J. W. Bagby, the time was spent with the churches in Lemoore, Grangeville, and Hanford, Kings’ Co. On the 15th and 16th there was a joint meeting of all three of the companies, at Grangeville. Brother McClure was with us those two days. There was an earnest consecration to God, in preparation for the Week of Prayer. After thirty-five had come forward, there was another move of consecration, in which nearly all in the house surrendered themselves to the Lord’s service. This consecration was held, and added to, as the meetings continued. Each church met daily in their home churches. We met with them from place to place on different days. A discourse was given on such occasions, followed immediately by the reading for the day, and a social meeting. It was indeed a profitable

week for that group of churches. Several among the young made a start for the first time in the Lord’s service.

Sabbath and First-day, December 29, 30, we were with the large church of believers in Fresno, with whom I had not met for ten years. Several of the older ones had moved away or died. Many then young have grown up. Some of these are taking hold to bear responsibilities; but, alas! with too many there are outward signs of worldly conformity. May the Lord work there in power, that Satan shall not capture the young with his worldly baits.

J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH.