THE T. AND M. INSTITUTE AT SIGOURNEY, IOWA.
By George I. Butler
This Institute was held in perhaps the worst time possible to secure a large attendance; but it accomplished more than we expected it would. Fifty-eight names were enrolled; and nearly all the ministers and licentiates of the Conference were present. This Institute was too short to accomplish all that was desired of such a meeting; but it did accomplish what we hoped, it created a desire for further meetings of this kind. I can safely say that those who attended were all made to appreciate, as never before, the importance of such Institutes, and were much in favor of holding another one this fall in camp, when we trust there will be a general rally of ministers, T. and M. officers, and people. The special work of instruction was of deep interest. Eld. Whitney, though a stranger to nearly all present at the beginning of the Institute, carried the hearts of the people away with him, and all are very anxious for him to return this fall and help us in our larger Institute. The best feature of all was the spiritual blessings we received. Our daily prayer and social meetings were seasons of special interest. On the last Sabbath, especially, Eld. Whitney gave a very interesting discourse on the danger and sin of backsliding, which, by the power of the Holy Spirit, deeply affected the hearts of those present. In the afternoon, after the discourse, a move was made in the congregation, to express a determination for greater consecration. Nearly all the congregation arose. Many excellent testimonies were given in the social meeting. The sweet and tender Spirit of God was there, and some of our young people made a decided advance. Some said it was as profitable for them as any camp-meeting they ever attended. Thirty-seven pledged to take life memberships in the General T. and M. Society. This was a good percentage. Resolutions were passed, thanking the Sigourney church for their hospitality; expressing appreciation of, and gratification for, the instructions of Bro. Whitney, and a desire for his return; and requesting the Conference to advise the holding of a large Institute in the fall, in camp, at which there shall be a general attendance. Our Institute was a decided success.