Every honorable means must be used to get the light of truth before the world. We believe, as a people, that we have important truths which are to test the last generation of mankind. We claim that the Lord is soon coming to gather his people and destroy the wicked, and that the “commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” is the great platform of divine truth upon which the world is to be tested. We hold that when probation closes those who have not accepted these truths will drink of the plagues of God’s wrath. We have a great truth, or we are in a great error. Believing we have such a truth, the only consistent course we can take is constant, aggressive activity in bringing these truths before the people.
As a people, we have a certain amount of talent among us,—as great, perhaps, in proportion to our numbers, as others. But the amount is small indeed at best, compared with what is needed in a work of such vast importance as this. A hundred times more than all we have could be used to advantage; for the harvest is very great, the issues201are momentous, and the time to work very short. Millions and hundreds of millions are to be warned, and many tens of thousands yet to embrace it.
Our Ministers
They are to do what they can to enlighten the people. This is a most important work. Solemn responsibilities rest upon them, and the Judgment will show whether their work has been faithfully done. The reward or punishment will be great, according as they have been faithful or unfaithful. There are many young men who could become successful workers if they would consecrate themselves to God and the ministry.
Our Tract and Missionary Workers
They are doing a noble work. Their field is the world. There is no end to their opportunities for usefulness. Until our High Priest in Heaven shall say, “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still.” Most of them are doing but little to what they might do. Here and there we find earnest workers, who act as if they really believe the truth. Oh that the people would wake up, and be truly in earnest. What a vast amount of good they could accomplish!
Colporters Are Wanted.
Much might be done by colporters. We have made a small beginning in this direction. There are many persons who could never speak as public speakers who might be just as truly useful as colporters, if they would work from love to God and of precious souls. Such could go forth with our publications and visit from house to house, talk and pray with the people, get acquainted with them, and hunt up interested persons here and there. Here is a most useful field of labor. We have had several instances in which men who feared God and wanted to work for him have made this a success. So we know it might be a great success if we could find those who would give themselves to the work. There are hundreds among us who might do great good in this direction, if consecrated to God. The only reason I can see why they are not doing it is love of the world, and lack of real faith in, and devotion to the work. They could find access to the people where the minister could not go. They could reach the people in the “highways and hedges,” and prepare the way for the ministers. In many countries the truth will mainly go by their efforts. Persecution will hinder the preacher from reaching the people. Churches cannot be obtained in which to hold meetings, and the people will not come out because of prejudice. But the godly colporters could go from house to house, and reach them where they are, pray with them, gain their confidence, and bring the light of truth before them. I believe much of this kind of work will be done before the end.
But to do this work will require a degree of consecration and love for the work not second to that needed by the minister. Humble, devoted, self-sacrificing men or women alone will succeed in this. To talk and argue, and perhaps joke and have a jolly time with the people, while trying to get them to take our publications, will do more harm than good. It will leave a false impression concerning the truth and the nature of the work, which will stand in the way of really accepting it, and the spirit of it. Persons of good address, humble, unassuming, who have taste and refinement, who are imbued with the love of Christ for souls in darkness, who are serious in their deportment, cheerful and pleasant in their demeanor and conversation,—such can do great good in this important and unoccupied field. Where are the volunteers to enter it?
Canvassers for Our Most Important Publications Could Do Much Good.
Here is a most important field waiting to be occupied. Something has already been said in the REVIEW upon this subject. A beginning is now being made. We have one book prepared for this purpose. “Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation,” combined in one volume, is now being issued from the press especially to occupy this field. We expect others will follow in time. We are greatly encouraged at the good commencement already made, and at the success already seen, and shall be disappointed if many thousands of this volume are not disposed of in the near future. The time has come for us to move forward as a people, and to act as if we believed what we profess.
We do believe a great and good work can be done in canvassing for our own publications. We confess to some alarm and sadness at the efforts Satan is making to thwart and head us off in this field. Considerable has been said in the past about canvassing among us, until it has produced quite an effect. A goodly number of our people have gone into the business. Many of our most promising young men are considering this subject, and some have already commenced to learn the business. Most are doing it solely for the sake of making money in order that they may accomplish some other cherished object. In this lies the cause of our anxiety. Personally, we greatly fear for the results upon our young men or any one who becomes a canvasser in the ordinary sense of the term.
There is a spirit and method that go with canvassing, as ordinarily conducted, which not only hinders a person from becoming a successful laborer for God, but almost unfits him for it. We do not say this is so in all cases, or that it is necessarily so. But it is usually so, and almost certain to be so if one enters fully into the spirit of modern canvassing. Such canvassers are bound to sell their wares anyhow. They cultivate a brassy boldness. And no matter if they know a person has no need or use for that which they wish to sell, they are bound to keep at work at him until they make him think so, no matter how much they may regret it as soon as they come to themselves. Oftentimes persons buy things merely that they may get rid of their tormentors. Such canvassers extol their wares much higher than the truth will warrant, and many of them will not hesitate to misrepresent for the sake of selling. They fall into the habit of prevarication and exaggeration, till the moral sense is blunted and conscience is deadened. Such develop into sharpers, who live by their wits and prey upon the community. Quite a large class of these are to be found in all our towns, especially in large cities. Canvassers are generally dreaded by modest, retiring, sensitive people, because of their brazen importunity. The love of gain is the sole prompting motive which actuates them. We have not the remotest thought that God wants his people to develop into such canvassers. And when we see our young men turning their attention to canvassing because of what has been said on the subject in the paper or by our ministers, and realize the danger of their developing these unwholesome traits, we feel sad, and think it is time to raise the voice of warning. Satan is ready to take advantage of the interest manifested in this subject, and give it a turn entirely different from what God designed. This is ever his plan.
Canvassing is an honorable business, if the end in view is a noble one and the method an honorable one. But, like every good thing, it is capable of being perverted. The proper object of canvassing is to bring valuable things before those who need them and are able to buy them, that they may be benefited by obtaining them. If these ends are kept in view by the canvasser, his business is a laudable one. But when he takes something of little or no value, and tries to create an impression that it has far greater value than it really possesses, he is simply a cheat. He does this to make a little money, the same as any other cheat.
Many books are canvassed for which are of no real use to any one. If they have a passing popularity, they can be readily sold. Some circumstance may occur which brings the subject upon which they treat prominently before the public. By stepping in then, quite a harvest may be reaped. This is tempting to our young men who may be trying to obtain a little means that they may attend school, or accomplish some other worthy object; yet we regard it as short-sighted policy. By devoting themselves to some such project, and working for some insignificant or unworthy object, they are surely stunting and benumbing their nobler powers. Imperceptibly to themselves, the mind is turned away from higher and nobler aims. Worldly, sordid motives are more and more developed into prominence. Young men who intended to give themselves to God’s work, have time and again been turned aside in this way, till they lost all sight of God’s service in eagerness for worldly gain. They may be developing into good salesmen, sharp canvassers, shrewd money-getters, and possibly may pride themselves on their success. But their best friends are sad; angels weep; God’s cause has lost their service; Satan exults; and eternal ruin is before them if they do not halt.
To become a good or successful canvasser, one must become absorbed in that for which he canvasses. When this is a puerile or trashy production, the mind which is absorbed in it partakes of the nature of that which specially interests it. “By beholding we become changed into the same image.” By expatiating on the supposed excellence of these things in order to sell them, the mind is really injured. Its moral tone is depreciated or depraved, till, sooner or later, taste for the good and the noble and the heavenly is destroyed. Hence we consider it really dangerous to the spiritual well-being of those who canvass for trashy and unimportant productions, and especially so for those who expect ever to give themselves to God’s work. Such need, in every way, to develop the higher powers by thorough cultivation.
Canvassing for our own books is just the work that our young friends need. These books treat on themes of eternal moment. Heavenly and glorious ends are here presented. There is no danger of making these subjects too prominent in this degenerate age. The world is perishing in its own corruption. Worldly gain, worldly fashion, the fleeting pleasures of the passing hour, allure the mind away from the sacred objects which should engross it.
To study the principles of truth so as to make them attractive, to learn to expatiate upon them till the soul becomes enthusiastic, and the love of God comes into the heart, will do the canvasser good, and also the one whom he solicits to purchase. This work will lead to the truth, and not from it. Every young man who goes into it with the right motive, will have the sweet satisfaction, when he looks back over his labors, of knowing that every book sold had an intrinsic value, and would do its purchaser good if he would study it; and the greater the interest he had in it, the more good it would do him. The labors of every month spent in canvassing for our own publications, would make the canvasser more familiar with the truth. Here is labor which would naturally call for devotion of heart. He could pray daily for God to bless him and prosper him. How much more satisfaction the true Christian will derive from such labor than from that which naturally leads away from God.
Again, this kind of canvassing would be constantly preparing one for greater usefulness. He is as truly engaged in spreading the truth as is the minister, the tract worker, or the colporter; yet he can be supporting himself in the field, and saving means for educating himself for still greater usefulness. Here is a department which we greatly desire to see filled, and it will be filled. A great avenue of usefulness is here opened. Devoted men and women will be found to fill it. Volunteers are wanted. The final reward for faithfulness is eternal life. Could we ask more? May God help us in this important work. GEO. I. BUTLER.
GENERAL MEETING IN NEW ENGLAND.
By S. N. Haskell
There will be a general meeting at South Lancaster, Mass., April 8, 9. This meeting will be one of unusual importance, as at this time matters concerning the school will be considered, and definite arrangements made pertaining to its commencement. It is now expected that it will open about the 16th of April. Matters concerning the missionary work in the Conference and tent labor for the coming season will also be considered. We expect a general attendance. S. N. Haskell.
Leipsic, Ohio.
By H. A. St. John
The director of Dist. No. 5 informs me that Eld. O. F. Guilford cannot attend the district quarterly meeting to be held at Leipsic, April 8, 9. The Lord willing, Bro. A. A. Bigelow will render help at this meeting. Preaching will begin on Tuesday evening, April 4, and continue till Sunday evening. H. A. St. John.
To the Friends of the Cause in Dist. Mo. 1, Mich.
By D. H. Lamson
Do not fail to attend the district quarterly meeting at Camden Center, April 8, 9. Bring the children with you. We hope for abundant help in the meeting. Do not let the weather prevent your coming. D. H. Lamson.
AMOT, SWEDEN.
By J. G. Matteson
We have continued the meetings here with good interest. Although the people are plain, and most of the men come to meeting with their black leather aprons on, yet they possess hearts ready to receive the truth; and willing hearts, with less intelligence and learning, are quicker to comprehend the word of the kingdom of God, than those that have more learning and less interest in heavenly things.
Last Sabbath a church was organized of nine members. Bro. Anderson was unanimously chosen and ordained elder. We were solemnly impressed on this occasion by the presence of the Spirit of God, and all felt thankful for his blessing. Monday evening we celebrated the ordinances, while sweet harmony and love united our hearts. The brethren, though comparatively poor, are willing to lay aside a tenth for the Lord, to help forward the mission.
The roads were very muddy, but recently we have had severe cold weather and snow. We had two meetings Sunday, the house being crowded with people. Many hearts were moved, and in the afternoon several expressed their desire and determination to serve the Lord. This was done with many tears, and prayers were offered and testimonies given.
Wednesday morning Bro. Rosqvist left for Grythyttehed. He had to appear in court Thursday morning, being again charged for transgressing the order of the church council. This time the penalty will no doubt be more severe than before. A proposition to change this law was presented before the legislature, and Bro. R. had hoped that it would pass, but before he left this place, intelligence was received that it had been voted against by the majority.
I still hold meetings. To-night will be the last this time. Then I go to Grythyttehed, the Lord willing. To-day two brethren united with the church by baptism. It was cold weather, but the Lord cheered and warmed our hearts by his truth and the blessed hope. Two more keep the Sabbath and meet with the brethren, which makes thirteen Sabbath-keepers. Pray for the blessing of God on his own work in old Sweden. March 2. J. G. MATTESON.
MICHIGAN
Fair Grove, Cedar Dale, and Vassar.—I remained with the Fair Grove church a few days after my last report. Several others started in the service of God. Two of those that had made a profession during the first of our labors there were baptized. Others will follow in the ordinance soon.
I stayed over only one Sabbath with the church at Cedar Dale, Sanilac county. On account of the very bad roads, held only one meeting, yet one accepted the truth and was baptized. It seems to me that labor bestowed here at some favorable time would not be lost. Tried to encourage the friends by visiting from house to house. Sold several dollars' worth of books.
On my way back to Tuscola county, I called at Brown City. There are two keeping the Sabbath here. The prospect is not favorable for labor.
Am now holding a few meetings at Vassar. The Lord is good, granting us his blessing continually. May we ever trust him implicitly. March 15. ALBERT WEEKS.
Covert, March 20.—Closed my meetings at Decatur Feb. 20. Met with the brethren at Hartford Feb. 25, and enjoyed a precious season with them. From there came to Covert, and commenced a series of meetings March 10. Have given twenty-two discourses, to congregations ranging from fifty to one hundred and fifty attentive listeners. The interest here is excellent. Twenty have already signed the covenant, and we hope for more. We have held two Sabbath meetings, which were well attended, and many heartfelt testimonies were borne in favor of the truth. Have also organized a Sabbath-school, and sent for ten copies of the Instructor, with lesson books and hymn books. Gave the last discourse last evening to a well-filled house. At the close of the service I took an expression of the house to see if they wished me to return. Nearly all voted in favor of it, and many expressed regret that the meetings must close now. Therefore I shall feel it my duty to return here immediately after the close of the Ministerial Association. R. C. HORTON.
INDIANA
By Victor Thompson
Crothersville and Northfield.—Held meeting at Crothersville March 2, when the friends voted to assist in the support of the cause by their means, beginning with the next quarter. Two were keeping the Sabbath in this county when we came here, and now the number is increased to eight. May they endure to the end; the promise is to such.
March 10, I visited Northfield. Remained over Sabbath and Sunday. Held five meetings. The Lord was near to bless, especially at our Sabbath meeting. We hope to see the work revived here, and union and harmony maintained. The Lord is ready to bless when we open the door of our hearts. I received $7.50 at this place.
VICTOR THOMPSON.
KANSAS
Lebanon, Smith Co., March 12.— Our work in this place is just finished, after remaining nearly eight weeks. Since our last report, nine more have decided in favor of the truth, making in all fifteen, all heads of families, that have embraced the Sabbath and kindred truths since our coming here. Six of the above were addicted to the use of tobacco, but have discontinued the habit, according to 2 Cor. 7:1. Six have united with the Lebanon church by baptism. With but few exceptions, this church is of good courage. Our stay in this place has been a profitable and pleasant one. The Lord has worked far beyond our expectations. When we are humble and consecrated, God works through us.
We expect to begin another series of meetings the 15th, in an entirely new field.
M. AND H. ENOCH.
Among the Churches.— From Jan. 7 to March 3, I visited the churches of Ft. Scott, Amity, Cherokee, Hallowell, Moline, and Grenola. At each of these places we think real progress was made, but were sorry to find that some had not maintained the ground they occupied when we left them about a year ago. Probably they learned that it was easier to draw nigh to the Lord when there was a strong revival influence, than to hold their ground when left alone to grapple with the difficulties of life and the temptations of Satan. We were glad to find some who appeared to have grown brighter in consequence of the friction caused by conflicts with self and the world and the buffetings of Satan.
At Grenola, sister Jones, who had been confined to her bed six weeks, was instantly healed in answer to prayer. Her physician, an infidel, was sitting by her bed, watching the effect of his medicine. On being healed, she arose and walked the room, praising God for his goodness to her.
J. H. COOK.
IOWA
By C. A. Washburn
Among the Churches.—Since my last report, I have held meetings with the churches of Knoxville, Woodburn, Osceola, Afton, and Mt. Ayr.
At Knoxville we had the unexpected privilege of meeting Eld. R. M. Kilgore and wife, who stopped here to visit relatives on their way back from the General Conference to their mission field in Texas. Though somewhat worn, they seemed to be in good health and of good courage in the work. Bro. Kilgore assisted in preaching, and his labor was appreciated by all. This church is one of the largest in Iowa. We held evening meetings through the week, and visited from house to house through the day. They have quite a large and well-finished house of worship. Seven renewed their subscription for the REVIEW, and three subscribed for Good Health. Clubs of the Signs and the Instructor are taken. They have an interesting Sabbath-school. The ordinances were celebrated, and Bro. C. F. Stevens was re-elected elder of the church.
At Woodburn we were encouraged to find the church so ready to take hold with us in the work of seeking God. We had meetings in the day and evening. The brethren came with their two-horse-teams, and brought their whole families with them. This is as it should be. We want our children with us when we reach our eternal home on the new earth; then let us take them with us to the house of worship. Bro. Jacob Shively was re-elected elder, and a deacon was chosen.
At Osceola, the brethren manifested a good interest in the meetings. They have a neat and convenient house of worship in the city. One young person made a good start to serve the Lord. Bro. A. W. H. Millard was re-elected to the office of elder, and a deacon was elected and ordained.
At Afton, they have a small but convenient house of worship in the city, which was quite well filled with Sabbath-keepers on the Sabbath. A203degree of interest was manifested in the meetings and Sabbath-school. The director of the district was present, and obtained six names for the REVIEW, five for the Signs, and thirteen for the Instructor. A deacon was ordained.
The church near Mt. Ayr are of good courage. A good person has embraced the truth there recently, and there is some prospect that others will do so. A few Sabbath-keepers came from Taylor county, a distance of about twenty miles, and met with us, and manifested their interest in the work, by contributing of their means for the advancement of the cause. I obtained one subscriber for the REVIEW and one for the Signs. There are good openings for labor in this part of the field, which should be improved.
WHENCE come they? Whence come they? this wonderful crowd
That cannot be counted? They seem like a cloud;
Their garments are gleaming with light from the skies,
And peace, that is perfect, looks out from their eyes.
They come from the ranks of the greatest and least;
Among them are martyrs, and prophet, and priest;
And still, and forever, the song that they sing
Is love of the kingdom and love of the King.
Among them are faces that once were so dear;
Long, long have we missed them; but lo! they are here!
Through faith did they conquer; they bear from afar
His name on their foreheads, as bright as a star.
They witness for Jesus, this wonderful crowd,
As round the bright throne they float like a cloud;
And still, and forever, the song that they sing
Is love of the kingdom and love of the King.
—Ellen M. H. Gates.
NEBRASKA
By Chas. F. Boyd
Hubbell.—Meetings were held in harmony with previous appointment. A church was organized, and the hearts of the friends much encouraged.
CHAS. F. BOYD.
Meetings and Conversions at Star City
By A. W. Bartlett
Star City, March 20.—About two months since, I came here, and requested the use of the Christian church, which was granted. But the Christian minister objected, and persuaded the trustees and others to revoke their decision. Therefore I was ignominiously treated, and refused the privilege of preaching even one sermon, in which I desired to vindicate my course. Great indignation was felt by many at the action of said church, and several citizens of the place waited on me and earnestly requested me to return with a tent and hold meetings.
Three weeks ago I began meetings at the school-house here, which contains a large room 38x25. The room has been crowded every night, and God has stirred the people mightily by his Spirit. Twenty-five have thus far embraced the truth and begun the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath. Among this number are those whose reputation for Christian love and character is untarnished. One of the wealthiest men here has determined to assist largely in the building of a commodious brick meeting-house, and several hundred dollars have already been offered toward the same.
Eld. Walker, of Kokomo, came here and desired a debate, but I refused to meet him until I had preached at least three weeks, at which time I was willing to meet him. He vehemently urged an immediate debate, but I replied that the people knew nothing of the truth that I was advocating, and prejudice was so strong that I desired time to remove it by preaching the truth. But he charged me with fear, etc., and preached here nearly one week, employing his time in stigmatizing the Sabbath of the Lord, and claiming that the ten commandments were done away. He also charged me with preaching an unscriptural doctrine concerning the soul, and finally claimed that the function of thought could exist without brains, i. e., a person can think much better without than with brains. I presume he referred to a spiritual brain. His preaching against the truth aided me considerably; for I could easily make the weakness of his arguments apparent to the people, and so hold up the present truth in glorious comparison. Over one hundred were in attendance at our last Sabbath meeting, and last night the crowd was larger than ever, the house being literally packed. Eld. W. has not been heard from. This is God's work. Pray for the work here. A. W. BARTLETT.
OHIO
By H. A. St. John; A. A. Bigelow
Among the Churches.— Was with the society in London from March 7 to 12. Here, again, we were unable to gather hearers from the country on account of rain and mud. But our brethren from the country showed commendable zeal in attending all the meetings. We had a very fair hearing from the village, and we believe the church was edified and a favorable impression made upon others. This society have a neat and comfortable house of worship, which does honor to the village and cause. We hope the time is not far distant when they will have accessions to their number. We were helped on our way by these brethren after a godly sort. Indeed, we may say that in every place thus far, contributions have more than met our traveling expenses.
From March 14 to 21 we were with the Dunkirk church. Our meetings were held in Woodruff's hall, the regular place of meeting for the society. Eld. Wm. Cottrell had just closed a series of meetings here, leaving a good feeling and impression. Our evening and Sunday meetings were quite well attended by interested hearers. The hall was full to overflowing on Sunday night. The subject of health and temperance received a due share of attention. The church is much encouraged, and we have many warm friends here that we hope will be our brethren and sisters in the Lord sometime. Over nine dollars was contributed toward our expenses. Yesterday (Monday), we had three meetings with this people, and this morning we are to start in a few minutes for Belle Center, in Logan county, where we have an appointment for to-night. The Lord blesses, and we are encouraged.
H. A. ST. JOHN.
A. A. BIGELOW.
DAKOTA
By S. B. Whitney
Madison, March 20.—Commenced meetings here Feb. 22. Held four in the hall, but this was engaged so much of the time that we decided to look for another place. The Presbyterian house was secured, where we held three meetings, but met the same difficulty. Then the Baptist house, which was vacant, was opened to us; but after holding two meetings, a severe storm broke us up entirely for the time being. Resumed in a few days, and continued till the 15th inst. The brethren have shown a commendable zeal, attending the meetings regularly, bearing all the expenses, and observing a day of fasting and prayer; but the storm so affected the roads, and various entertainments, almost every night and sometimes two the same night, so diverted the minds of the people in town, that we could get up no real interest and it was thought best to close. We were treated very kindly, however, in other respects. The editors gave us kindly notices, and the last evening (Sunday) the Presbyterian pastor, who had announced a temperance sermon, invited me to preach. Notice was given in the various congregations in the morning, and the house was full. A good impression, apparently, was made upon the people.
The last week has been devoted to special labor for the church. Distracting influences have hindered the work of organization, but these have been so far overcome that the church was fully organized with thirteen members, with the prospect that nearly as many more will unite soon. A feeling of jealousy, resulting in a spirit of rebellion, was developed in a very few, but they were entirely without sympathizers. The good Spirit came into our meetings, hearty confessions were made, and some who have been discouraged and backward sought the Lord with earnestness and deep emotion, making noble resolves for the future. To the Lord be all the praise.
S. B. WHITNEY.
P. S. Since writing the above, I have met one of the editors of the Madison Sentinel, a member of the Presbyterian church, with whom, at the close of my discourse on temperance, I had a brief conversation upon tobacco. He voluntarily informed me that he had used no tobacco for a week, and assured me that although he was having a severe struggle he meant to stick to it. S. B. W.
NORTH CAROLINA.
By S. H. Kime
Kelley Crucis, Feb. 9.—I have made a hasty trip to the central part of this State. Have labored in several different counties. Some will keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and only preach to them; the power to compel conviction is the province of the Holy Spirit. There are thousands in this State who never so much as knew that there was such a people as the S. D. Adventists. I feel confident from my experience that much and lasting good could be accomplished in this State if the work could be carried forward. There is an interest awakened in different localities.
Found but little opposition, though a Methodist minister on one occasion disputed my word during a lecture. Many returned thanks for the labor given, among whom were several ministers.
I also visited some Sabbath-keepers in Wilkes county. Found them firm on the law and Sabbath, but they still belong to the First-day Adventists. We have no minister in this State who devotes all of his time to the ministry. The ministers are compelled to labor for their support. The same is true for us. S. H. KIME.
NEW YORK.
By M. H. Brown
West Monroe.—After the meeting at Mannsville, I visited and held meetings with the West Monroe, Parish, and Pulaski churches. The church at West Monroe has been declining for years, and unless they can be helped, or can help themselves, a feeble organization cannot long be maintained. Worldliness, neglect of the health reform, and robbing the Lord in tithes and offerings, have been among the causes that have brought upon them spiritual dearth and leanness of soul. Some are trying to struggle through the darkness into the light. If faithful, they will yet see better days.
At Parish, more light seemed to accompany the endeavors. Some are making good advancement, and seem anxious to do their whole duty. Several copies of the Signs were taken for missionary work, and a good free spirit prevailed in all our meetings.
On Sunday evening, March 12, spoke at Happy Valley. There was a good attendance and excellent attention. I think a course of lectures here should be productive of good results. We find more of an interest in the vicinity of this church, than any other church we have visited.
March 18, 19, held meetings with the Pulaski church at Pineville. We endeavored to bear a plain testimony in love, which was heartily responded to by those present. The elder and deacon elected in January were ordained, the ordinances were celebrated, and we enjoyed a very precious season together. Members of the church not present lost a great blessing. We were cheered and encouraged by the presence and good testimonies of some of the brethren and sisters from Mannsville. M. H. BROWN.
March 20.
MAINE
By S. J. Herrick
Fryeburg, Freeport, and Brunswick.— Since my last report, I have visited the church at Fryeburg and the few Sabbath-keepers in Brownfield. There are some in Denmark that ought to unite with the church, and thus unite their strength with the body. We had some good meetings with the brethren there.
We have also spent one Sabbath and first-day in Freeport. The little company here are still faithful. We had some of the best meetings we have ever attended. The promptness with which the brethren and sisters move forward in their meetings is one thing that made them so interesting, and these friends are also ready with their means to help forward the cause.
We have held a few meetings here in Brunswick. The enemy of all righteousness has been at work here causing division. Our people should be very careful that Satan does not get the “little wedge” in between them. Many of our brethren and sisters should study carefully the third chapter of James. The tongue is indeed an unruly member. And they should not only study the third chapter of James, but should read and practice what Paul says in Phil. 4 : 8. We are to love one another as Christ has loved us. John 15 : 12. We are to love our neighbor as ourselves, and do unto others as we would that they should do to us. Matt. 22 : 39; 7 : 12. Now, brethren and sisters, when you are speaking against your brother or sister, is that doing by them as you would wish them to do by you? You may say that they have wronged you. Then go to them, and talk with them about it. Do not talk it to every one else besides them. Our Saviour tells us just what course we should take (Matt. 18 : 15-17), and it is decidedly wrong to pursue a different one.
Brunswick, March 12. S. J. HERRICK.
MINNESOTA
By D. P. CURTIS; D. C. BURCH
Hutchinson and Dassel.—We reached Hutchinson Feb. 24, and commenced meetings that evening. This is the largest church in the Conference, and the brethren are widely scattered, so that it is impossible to get them together at any one place. Those who were within reach of the church, made commendable efforts to attend our meetings. The Lord gave freedom in presenting the word, and helped to bear the strait testimony which we thought the time demanded. As in other places where we have labored, we set before the people the necessity of having the evidence of thorough conversion, of having a full reconciliation to God, and an entire consecration of heart and life to his service, in order to find acceptance with him, and also to qualify us for doing acceptable work for him in any branch of the cause. We believe that the Spirit gave efficiency to the word spoken.
A goodly number of the brethren and sisters bore testimony to the truth of the word preached, and pledged themselves to renewed efforts to place themselves in such a relation to God that they may become “as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life.” We believe that all who attended the meetings received help in proportion as they opened their hearts to receive the truth spoken, and entered into the work of self-examination, and purging out the “old leaven,” that they may be a new lump. We were here brought to see the utility of those warnings given by Bro. Butler in the REVIEW of Feb. 7, and in other items in recent papers. Shortly after we came here, a person from another Conference appeared among us, who claimed to be an S. D. A. minister, though admitting to us that he was not recognized by our people, professing to have the gift of healing to a very wonderful degree. After tarrying, as a burden upon the brethren, about a week, and meeting no encouragement, he departed to his home.
There are other neighborhoods of those who are members of this church, which we designed to visit, but circumstances prevented doing so at this time. We shall, if the Lord permit, visit them when the way opens so that we can do so to profit.
We came to Dassel on the 13th. This is a small church, tolerably well situated for meeting together under ordinary circumstances. We find them somewhat discouraged on account of their small numbers and the little help they have received; but they appear willing to be helped, and desirous to advance in the Christian course. We shall tarry with them over Sabbath, and hope to be able to help them. The longer we follow this work of visiting churches, the more do we see its necessity and importance; and we can but wonder that the need of it has not been more clearly seen and felt before. D. P. CURTIS.
March 17. D. C. BURCH.
KANSAS SABBATH-SCHOOLS.
By T. H. Gibbs
The State secretary has sent blanks for reporting to all the schools throughout the State of which we have any knowledge. Now, as the reports for this quarter will be the last we shall receive before the meeting of the State Association at our camp-meeting, we are very anxious for a full report from our schools. Please state the extent of interest, progress, and other matters of importance. Should any fail of receiving blanks, they should notify us of this. Let all family Sabbath-schools report also. Ministers organizing new schools would confer a favor by notifying us.