This was the expression used by Elder Daniells during the progress of a most interesting session of the Educational Conference, Sunday evening, July 14.
From the opening of the Conference on the 10th, the interest and attendance gradually increased. Every day, as the topics for discussion were considered, it seemed that a clearer view was obtained of those great underlying evils which have been sapping the vitality from the denomination in the past. The discussion of the subject, “Schools for Our Children and Youth,” made plain the fact that God’s blessing in its fullness can be experienced only when, as a denomination, we take up a long-neglected duty and educate our children for the kingdom.
It was found that the memory period of childhood, those years when the child has strong faith, is the divinely appointed time for the teaching of the word of God.
Elder A. T. Jones gave excellent studies on the value of the word of God in the development of faith, and Sabbath was a day long to be remembered. The morning sermon was by Elder Jones. He spoke upon the thought found in 1 Peter 2:9: “Ye are . . . a royal priesthood.” He dwelt upon the change of garments necessary in order to become priests (Ex. 29:29); the anointing, which was the next step, signifying the baptism of the Spirit, which follows the removal of our garments of unrighteousness (Zechariah 3; John 1:16; Psalm 133); and the service which priesthood enjoins. Every man who is a priest will, according to the Lord’s definition, have “his hands filled with the service of the Lord.” This is consecration.
The talk was a quiet one, and the Spirit of God brooded upon the congregation. The hearts of fathers in the congregation turned instantly to their sons, young men who had known the truth, but who are wandering in the ways of the world. One by one the young people asked special prayer for brothers and sisters who were wandering, and for other young people who ought to have the training this summer for school work in the fall. With tears and earnest supplication the mercy of God was sought. It was felt by all that the time had come for action. The work continued in the afternoon.
Sunday the financial side of the school work was discussed. The need of consecrating the last cent and of making definite plans for the permanent support of the schools was urged.
It had been suggested during the day that there were many church school teachers absent from the Conference because they lacked means to meet the expense. Should ministers have their expenses met by the Conferences, while the teachers pay their own way? Many had taught for the lowest wages, and in some cases had not received all their pay; should they be expected to pay their own transportation? These and kindred questions agitated the minds of the ministers.
Elders Spicer, Jones, and Daniells, and others, spoke in behalf of the teachers and the need of means to carry forward the work to-day. The foreign fields are dying for laborers, but the foreign fields cannot be supplied until the training in the home field is what it should be. Christ cannot come until the world is warned. The warning of the world depends upon the education of workers in our schools. How can we hesitate?
The meeting grew more intense. Elder Covert announced that he knew of a fund from which to meet the expenses of those Wisconsin teachers who should be at the Conference. On motion of Elder Spicer, a collection in cash and pledges was at once taken to help defray traveling expenses. One hundred dollars was raised in a few minutes. This was the beginning. A committee was appointed to formulate plans for the substantial support and permanent organization of the church schools. It was this meeting which Elder Daniells described as a “Midnight Glory,” for it bespoke the beginning of better times. Further reports of plans will appear later.
A large number of letters have been mailed to those who have been teaching church schools and who were unable to attend the summer school, telling them of the opening of the way before them. Some who have taught, or who have ability to teach after a brief training, may be overlooked in this correspondence. It is the wish of the Lake Union Conference and of the Educational Department of the General Conference that all should be reached at once. If this applies to you, do not delay to write for particulars.
M. BESSIE DEGRAW.
Berrien Springs, Mich.
NEW YORK.
The work in this conference is moving onward encouragingly. Six tents are in the field, all in new territory. The laborers are of good courage. It has already been reported that some have accepted the Sabbath.
In company with the State agent, I have been holding meetings in different parts of the State, in the interest of the canvassing work, and we are glad to see new recruits stepping into the ranks. Where we do not see all accomplished that we would desire, we are thankful for the omens of a return of the old-time spirit in this important branch of the Lord’s work. We have been seeking to impress our brethren and sisters with the need of circulating books, tracts, pamphlets, and papers on the plan, somewhat, of selling “Christ’s Object Lessons;” that is, for all men, women, and children who believe that Jesus is coming, to go to work among their neighbors and friends. Many are doing this, and the Lord is blessing them.
There is a liberal spirit throughout the Conference in reference to the foreign work. All took hold willingly to lift on the debt of the Christiania publishing house, and a good donation will be secured.
Our camp-meeting will be held this year at Oswego, August 29 to September 8, and we hope to see a good attendance of our people. The city has granted us the use of a park centrally located, one block from the street-car line, and only five from the depots. It is a beautiful place, well lighted with electricity. We believe that the Lord has directed us to this place with this important meeting. The best help possible will be secured. Let us plan now to come to the feast which the Lord will spread. G. B. THOMPSON.
JAMESTOWN.—The quarterly meeting at Jamestown was blessed of the Lord. Some were present from Sinclairville, Brocton, Randolph, and Blockville. Unity and love prevail in the church, and they are seeking to be faithful and win the prize. G. B. THOMPSON.
BLOCKVILLE.—Death, and that which is far worse—apostasy—have reduced the numbers here, yet I found a few who have weathered the gale, and, guided by the compass of truth, are steering for the haven of rest. While here, I had an opportunity to view the practical working which results from a rejection of the Spirit of Prophecy. The picture is a dismal one. It is spiritual darkness, gloom, division491ruin. My prayer is that the Lord will save us from the inevitable disaster which comes from rejecting the light the Lord gives us through this means. I preached one evening in the church here, and the following day held a business meeting. Brother Sweet was elected leader, and Sister Mattison secretary and treasurer. We planned also for the election of trustees to hold the church property, and expect to make arrangements by which the church building will be kept in repair. G. B. T.
SARANAC LAKE AND TUPPER LAKE.—While canvassing at Tupper Lake, Tuesday, where there are several large mills and a few small ones, the men struck at one of the small mills. From there they went to the next, compelling the men to stop work there, and so on from one to another, dragging out those who refused to quit, choking and kicking them, etc. As the result, every mill was closed before noon, and a hooting, howling mob of four or five hundred men, led on by Satan at his will, entered the streets. Truly, what we have failed to do in times of peace will have to be done under the most distressing circumstances. But my courage is better than ever in the Lord. G. B. STEVENS.
GORHAM.—At the quarterly meeting in Gorham, last Sabbath, one more precious soul was admitted to church fellowship—a sister whose home is in Middlesex, where our tent was pitched a part of last summer. She believes others will soon join the Gorham church. LULU WIGHTMAN.
STEAMBURG.—Our quarterly meeting occurred last Sabbath. There were about fifty of our people present, some from Bowen and Randolph. The Lord was with us in all the services. Opportunity was given for baptism, and seven commandment-keepers were buried with the Lord and raised for a new life in Christ Jesus. Two united with this church, and the rest will join the Randolph church. F. H. HICKS.
WALLACE.—June 29 I met with the Wallace church in quarterly meeting services. I spoke in the morning, in the afternoon, and also in the evening to the public. The Lord came near in these services. Four persons were received as members of the church. One of these was an especially talented young man, who will doubtless enter the work in some capacity before long. There is no disaffection here. All are in perfect unity and at peace with one another. Not a particle of strife or trouble has entered into this company since its organization. While there, I had the opportunity of reviewing a Sabbath-question discourse by the M. E. minister, who had poured forth a tirade of epithets and abuse against our people, with the mistaken idea that this was warrantable proof for the sacredness of the Sunday sabbath. Souls lingering in the valley of decision listened attentively. LULU WIGHTMAN.
CANANDAIGUA.—In Canandaigua our meetings are being attended by people who are much interested. Since the lectures began, on the 11th ult., two persons have heard the truth, been converted, and accepted the message. This makes seven in all who have accepted the truth in Canandaigua. I am confidently expecting others. A traveling man who is working this county, comes in for miles, paying car fare and hotel bills, that he may be able to hear the last message of mercy. His interest is great. He is bright and capable. Remember him in your prayers. L. W.
ROUSE POINT.—This is a town of about eighteen hundred inhabitants, and located in the very north-east corner of the State. We secured a site for our tent quite centrally located, and held our first service Sunday evening, the 23d ult., with a good-sized audience. Then came on the school exercises for the close of the term, for several evenings, and a social entertainment in the interest of the band, all of which largely detracted from our attendance till Friday evening, when the attendance was larger. We are not discouraged, and are bound to do what we can. Pray for us. J. W. RAYMOND, F. H. DEVINNEY.
WARSAW.—Our meetings here have been in progress nearly three weeks. The attendance has not been large, except for two or three services. From the first, it seemed to be the studied effort of the pastors to have something going on to draw the attention of the people. This, with the closing exercises of the schools, and the band concerts two or three times a week, did not give much chance for attendance upon our meetings, where unpopular truth is preached. But when the people found that our appointments were like the laws of the Medes and Persians, and that the subjects advertised would be presented whether they came or not, they began to come. Occasionally they would watch, near by, until we began to sing for opening services, only a few being present; and yet the meeting would close with an attendance of thirty. The last three services have been devoted to the investigation of the Sabbath question. A few are deeply interested, and we hope for results. To this end we ask our brethren and sisters to continue their prayers. WM. J. BOYNTON, J. B. STOW.
THANKSGIVING AND PRAISE.
By Melissa Sollars
MRS. MELISSA SOLLARS.
(Spokane, Wash.)
BLESS me also, O my Father, even me,
And some glimpses of thy glory let me see,—
Not thy glory dazzling bright,
Lest it blind my earthly sight,—
Yet still nearer, O my Saviour! let me be.
Now acquaint me with thy ways, wondrous ways;
Teach me better how to praise, sing and praise;—
How to tell the story old,
And the mighty power unfold,
Of thy greatness and thy glory, all my days.
Now direct me to thy way, narrow way,
Choose in all for me this day—all the day.
In myself there is no might;
Take my hand; thou'lt lead me right;
From thy word, my Saviour, let me never stray.
NEW JERSEY.
By E. E. Franke
TRENTON.—I pitched my large tent, 60 x 80 ft., in this city, and held my first meeting, Sunday evening, July 7. The audience was not large at first, owing to the heavy rain-storms, but has steadily increased until it is so large that we cannot seat all of the people. There seems to be a genuine interest on the part of those who attend. After each lecture an opportunity is given for questions from the audience, and these questions show their interest in the subjects presented.
This city is the capital of New Jersey, and we hope a large church will be raised up here to the glory of God. We could use hundreds of tracts and late numbers of our papers for free distribution.
Pray for this work. E. E. FRANKE.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH
By John Norton Loughborough
California.
Since last reporting, it was my privilege to attend the late General Conference in Battle Creek, Mich. Although many important changes were effected in the reorganization of the work, not a dissenting voice was heard throughout the entire session. To the Lord be the praise.
Since returning to California, I have attended the harmonious State Conference, and the annual meetings of the legal corporations of the State. The same spirit of union experienced at the General Conference prevailed during these important gatherings.
Since the Conference I have visited the Napa church, where the work was started in 1873. Few of the first members are there now, but others have united with them, so there is still a force to “hold the fort.” While on that trip, I spoke once in the tent-meeting at Vallejo, where Brethren C. N. Martin and Henry Scott and other workers are engaged. In 1874 I held a tent-meeting in Vallejo. Most of those who then accepted the Sabbath truth have died, or moved from the place. There is a fair prospect of there being additional members to the company there through the present effort.
Sabbath and First-day, July 13 and 14, I was with the company in Petaluma. This is the place where our first series of meetings was held on the Pacific Coast, from Aug. 13 to Oct. 18, 1868. Not one of those who first accepted the truth in Petaluma remains there. Some of the children of the pioneers, however, and others who have accepted the truth, constitute a firm company. We had a pleasant and interesting time with them in meetings in their new meeting-house, which they own free from debt. I expect to go soon to San José, and then in a few days attend the camp-meetings in Utah, Montana, Washington, and Idaho.
In the night of June 29, after prayer concerning the health reform work, the Lord gave me an impressive dream. In my dream I was walking toward the Sanitarium in Battle Creek, Mich. I was on Manchester Street, near the northwest corner of the college campus. As I looked up, I saw a glorious silvery light over the Hospital, Sanitarium, and the College. At the base of this silvery light was intermingled all the beautiful colors of the rainbow, more vividly bright, however, than displayed in a rainbow. While entranced with the sight, and thrilled with awe at the heavenly scene, a solemn voice spoke from heaven, which said: “That is my institution, and is destined with its branches to accomplish a vast amount of good in the world. What is needful to insure its success in the work is a constant, living connection of the workers with heaven. If they have this, they will not fail of success.”
At that point there was a break in the dream, and a change in the scene, and I was in a gathering of our people where I was relating the dream. Dr. Kellogg was present, and as I closed with the testimony respecting a “connection with heaven,” he arose, the tears coursing down his cheeks, as he said, in a touching manner, “Brother Loughborough, that is what we workers at the Sanitarium are doing. For three or four days we have been seeking such a consecration of ourselves to the Lord as was never made before in our lives.” Our hearts were thrilled with the presence of the Lord as this testimony was borne, and with that thrill of joy I awoke, and with the sentiment uppermost in mind: “With all our needs for the success of the work, the greatest need of all is a living connection with heaven.”
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH
CHICAGO
By L. D. Santee
The work in Chicago is steadily moving forward, not by any spasmodic effort, but by persevering personal work. Sixty-five have accepted the truth within the past year. The great lack, which we all deplore, is the lack of laborers. Judicious effort is sure to bring good returns. But where are the laborers?
In our Conference, medical, and religious liberty work, there is a cordial harmony and co-operation. Three tents are now running in the city, and the attendance is good. Here in the storm center, where are false Christs, false Elijahs, and spurious John the Baptists, the Lord still has a people that desire to know His will.
The services in our several churches are well attended, but in reaching for the outside, Bible readings seem to be the most successful. Other interests claim the attention of the masses, prominent among which are the drought and the strikes. Still there is a continuous gain, and we are of good courage. Eight are to be baptized at our South Side church, next Sabbath. God has said, “My word . . . shall not return to me void,” and He is fulfilling His promise. Our missions are active, and some are coming to the Lord through their agency.
The branch sanitarium is a busy place. It is to be regretted that Dr. Paulson has to be away so much, attending camp-meetings. This work was never more promising than it is at present, and there is a harvest that could be reaped if he could only put in all his time in considering its interests. I do not say this to disparage the rest. The faculty are able and faithful, but the absence of the chief is felt in the institution.
I am glad that harmony exists in our different departments. Each of us feels under obligations to the rest, for favors received. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” John 17:23. L. D. SANTEE.
Canvassing Work in Crows Landing Region
CROWS LANDING.—Most of my work was in the country on the west side of the San Joaquin River. It necessitated much traveling to meet with few people, but the blessing of God accompanied every step of the way. About fifty copies of “Christ’s Object Lessons” were disposed of. I carried a supply of tracts and health journals, which I left with those who did not order the book. Many opportunities were presented to talk with the people in regard to the truth. I met with two ladies whose cases are especially interesting. After spending some time in talking with one of them, and leaving a good supply of tracts to answer her various questions, she remarked that she would like to spend a few days talking on those subjects, and that she had received information which she had long desired. The other lady became interested through the work of Brother Lindermood while he was canvassing last fall, and when I called to deliver the book she had ordered. I had a very interesting time studying the Bible with her. When I left, she had decided to attend the State camp-meeting. The one who goes from house to house with the printed page has a grand opportunity to sound the warning of the third angel.
W. F. HILLIS
By W. F. Hillis
SALIDA.—Have disposed of one hundred and fifty copies of “Christ’s Object Lessons” in this district. Have also held two Sabbath-school conventions, and success has attended our feeble efforts.
W. F. HILLIS
J. A. L. Derby Joins Healdsburg College Faculty
J. A. L. Derby, formerly connected with Walla Walla (Wash.) College, will connect with Healdsburg College the coming year, taking charge of the department of history.
News from New York Field Workers and Canvassers
Bath and treatment rooms have been opened by Brother C. M. Crumb, at Conewango Valley.
Elders Whitney and Ball are engaged in a tent effort at Fayetteville.
Brother Hicks has been instrumental in starting a mission among the Indians on the reservation near Salamanca.
At the recent New England camp-meeting it was voted to contribute two hundred and fifty dollars for the work in New York City. It was also voted to send a Bible worker to that city, and to pay the expense. The brethren also voted to send a minister to the Maritime Provinces, and to pay his expenses for an unlimited time.
The following persons are engaged in canvassing for “The Coming King,” in this State: Harold B. Fisher, at Minetto; Walter A. Erb, at Canandaigua; George H. Scott and Judson Scott at Minetto; and R. L. McKenzie, at Keene.
Brother A. E. Holst is canvassing in Jamestown, for “Daniel and the Revelation.” G. B. Stevens is canvassing for the same work, at Saranac Lake.
G. F. Evans is canvassing for “The Desire of Ages,” at Wellsville; and Mr. and Mrs. B. B. Nofziger are canvassing Albany for “Bible Readings.”
THE ONTARIO CONFERENCE AND CAMP-MEETING.
By Helen McKinnon
The second annual Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists of Ontario was held in connection with the annual camp-meeting, at Toronto, June 20-30, 1901. The laborers present were Elders Daniells and Spicer, and D. W. Reavis of the Review and Herald Publishing Company, besides all the Conference laborers. The meetings were characterized with a spirit of unity and good will. Many of the business sessions took the turn of good social meetings, and were really seasons of spiritual blessing. There was a good representation from the churches in the province, and all enjoyed their short sojourn in the camp, which was conveniently situated in a beautiful grove. There was a good attendance from the outside, especially during the Sundays that the meetings were held.
The reports from various branches of the work showed that progress is being made in the different departments. Three churches have been organized since the last Conference, and the tithe has increased by one third.
The Committee on Plans submitted several recommendations, and plenty of time was given to their consideration. It was resolved that we have in this Conference a legal corporation for the purpose of holding property, receiving legacies and such bequests as shall be made for the benefit of the Ontario Conference. The Sabbath-school Association and the tract society were discontinued as such, and placed under the management and control of the Ontario Conference. The ten-cent-a-week plan was indorsed, and a more urgent request made that all be faithful in the payment of tithes. The work of church and industrial schools was indorsed, and it was recommended that a strong effort be put forth to start an industrial school at as early a date as consistent; the medical missionary work was also indorsed, and it was recommended that the Medical Missionary Board be asked to consider the needs of this important field, and establish at an early date treatment rooms in our large cities. The necessity for a Conference paper for communication with the churches in the province has become apparent, and it was recommended that such a paper be started, with the understanding that this paper shall not in any way compete with, or take the place of, the leading denominational paper. During the year the canvassing work made some progress; and it was recommended to encourage this work by placing it on a higher plane by increasing the staff of workers, and that careful judgment be used in the selection of such persons.
The officers for the ensuing year are as follows: President, Elder J. W. Collie; Secretary and Treasurer, Helen McKinnon. Executive Committee: J. W. Collie, E. J. Dryer, T. H. Robinson, J. H. Watson, Robt. McCormick.
HELEN MCKINNON, Sec.
SOUTHWESTERN UNION CONFERENCE.
By C. McReynolds
AFTER the close of the General Conference and the committee meetings that followed, I returned to Oklahoma, and spent some time in closing up the work that I had in hand there. We had a good meeting at Okeene, where we dedicated a large church building. It was paid for, and the Lord accepted the offering that His people presented to Him. That is one of the strongest German churches in Oklahoma. The Lord has blessed them much in temporal affairs as well as spiritually.
From there I went to a joint meeting of representatives of the Southwestern and the Northwestern Union Conferences, held at College View, in connection with the board meeting of the college. This was a very interesting meeting. Matters that concern the two Conferences conjointly were satisfactorily arranged. The same liberal spirit that was in the General Conference meetings prevailed throughout these meetings. Sister White and W. C. White were there a few days, and the presence of the Spirit of the Lord was manifested in a marked manner. This was especially so when the interests of the work in the South were presented.
From this place I went to Keene, Tex., to hold a few meetings and counsel the students as to their work after the close of the academy year. A large class of intelligent students was to be graduated, and I was forcibly impressed that it was our duty to look after these. The annual meeting of the academy board was to be held at the close of the school. The Lord blessed much in the meetings held. The first Sabbath of the meeting was a time that will remain in the memories of hundreds of God's children. A general move began among the children, and little ones from seven to ten years of age went throughout the audience, inviting their playmates, and others much older, to come to the altar of prayer. This work began without any suggestion on the part of any one, and it resulted in over sixty coming forward to seek the Lord. The work was continued during a part of the following week in public meetings, in which Elder Rupert took part, and daily in private work by some of the faithful teachers, who had a burden for the souls of the young people and children. Very careful work was done, giving instruction as to how to come to the Lord. The meetings were resumed the following Sabbath evening and during the Sabbath day, Elder Matthew Larson assisting in the preaching, and in the revival work also. Sabbath and Sunday there were three baptismal services, when twenty-two were immersed. Thus closed the best year that Keene Academy has ever enjoyed. Twenty-eight graduates went out from the school to engage in various pursuits, most of them to be connected in some way with the work of the Third Angel's Message,—some in the canvassing work, and some in the ministry. Three of the class are placed on the academy faculty for the coming year. May the Lord continue to bless the work of Keene Academy in raising up many to go forth to the ends of the earth with the message of His truth. The baccalaureate sermon, which was delivered by Prof. H. E. Giddings, was one of unusual interest and effect.
C. McREYNOLDS.
CANVASSING IN ALASKA.
By Walter Harper
I am now canvassing at Skaguay, Alaska. God gives success. My wife and I left Seattle, June 23, for Juneau, Alaska, where we arrived the 26th, about 10 P. M. It was daylight still; in fact, the last rays of the sun still clung to the snowy mountain peaks. It was after eleven o’clock when we retired at the hotel, but still the light of day hung on. We began work next day; could do but little. There seemed a barrier between us and the people. Carelessness, indifference, objections, varied excuses,493etc., prevailed. We knew our only hope was in God. We sought Him in earnest prayer, with fasting. The Lord regarded our pleas, and wrought for us. The tide was turned. One day was favored with sixteen orders; another day with twenty-eight orders for books, etc., or sixty-three dollars’ worth; another day eighteen orders, or over forty dollars’ worth. Here the orders have ranged from one to twelve each day. The first orders mentioned were taken at Juneau and Douglas city, on Douglas Island, Alaska, about two miles across from Juneau.
The excuses, the rambling, shifting nature of the people here, made it trying at first to do much. But leaning on the Arm of infinite power brings victory. All the honor and praise is the Lord’s. In more ways than one, the enemy would have blocked our way here. One was a prohibitory license against all canvassers, agents, etc., of one hundred and twenty-five dollars. But God gave us favor, and overruled it for us. The first day at Juneau, my wife had no success save in the selling of one copy of “Steps to Christ.” Next day, in two and one half or three hours, she sold two “Desire of Ages,” $3.50 each, and one French “Great Controversy.” The “Desire of Ages” was a new book to her, having never handled it before. One day last week she was granted success by our dear Heavenly Father in taking three orders for “Desire of Ages” in two hours. She is not strong, and can canvass but a few hours in addition to housekeeping.
WALTER HARPER.
KENTUCKY
By Wm. Lenker
APRIL 15, 1901, I left Graysville, Tenn., for what are called in this State the mountain counties of Kentucky, in which I spent about eight months last year. During this time, the blessing of the Lord accompanied my work, and I secured twenty-five hundred dollars' worth of orders for Bibles, “Bible Readings,” and “Gospel Primers,” and delivered a large per cent of them. This year I have canvassed forty-five days, and have a list of eight hundred dollars' worth of orders, most of which I have delivered.
I was greatly surprised to find that so many homes were without a Bible. I have met with no prejudice. Very few of these people know anything about Seventh-day Adventists, and most of them have never heard of the name. And this is within a few hundred miles of the very center of our work. Surely, this field has been neglected. As one climbs these mountains, going from hut to cabin, he views the frightful chasms and winding valleys, with their wooded mountain-sides or perpendicular lime-walls, some of which are hundreds of feet high and curiously wrought.
These mountains are inhabited by a people unique in their civilization and character. After the Indian wars and the Revolutionary struggle, the ancestors of the present inhabitants crossed the Blue Ridge and the Alleghanies to battle with the natives, who still inhabited this territory. A number of places have been pointed out to me where notable pioneer events took place. There is, perhaps, no other people who at present represent so well American civilization of a century ago, as do these people, shut in by mountains, which have to a large extent closed them to the outer world. They are quite antique in their modes of farming and domestic life. If it were not for the use of tobacco, which is almost universal among both sexes, and the use of intoxicants, for here is the home of the moonshiner, a better class of people would be hard to find. They are impulsive, yet very hospitable, kind, and willing to learn. They need instructors imbued with the love of the truth and wisdom from on high.
It gives joy at the close of a weary day to be in these family circles, with parents and children eagerly listening and asking questions, as a few precious truths are presented. Our Saviour is soon coming; and in that grand and awful day, some of these dear souls will be among the one hundred and forty-four thousand; for the harvest is sure. I often leave from one to four books in a home, and one family took ten books of me. This is good territory.
So far as I know, Brother A. K. Baker and myself are the only workers in all this vast mountain region of Kentucky. Do not these very mountains hold up their hands, as it were, and cry for help? Can we turn a deaf ear? Come, brother, come, sister, and live the life of Christ among these people.
WM. LENKER.
MICHIGAN
By L. G. Moore
LANSING.—The Lord’s work in Lansing is prospering gloriously, and to our Heavenly Father be all the praise. During the last year, twenty-three have been added to the church by baptism, and thirteen by letter. We have now a membership of one hundred and ten. Our meetings are well attended, and the interest is increasing. The Bible workers, Sister Minnie Lay and Sister Mina Pierce, have all they can well attend to. Another worker could be profitably employed. The church school, under the direction of Sister May Sandborn, has just closed a profitable term. It is expected that the school will open again in September. Quite a large per cent of our brethren and sisters are faithful in the payment of tithe, and we hope soon to reach the point of faithfulness in all God’s appointments. How any one can neglect this happy privilege of being a co-worker with God, is a mystery to me. He has said, in unmistakable terms, that He will open the windows of heaven in blessing upon the faithful ones. We need Heaven’s blessing; let us be true and faithful in all things.
In all the time I have labored here, I never found so many who are willing to talk about “the present truth” as I find at the present. The people are friendly, and gladly take our papers as I go among them in house visitation. The influence of the workers in the office of the Michigan Tract Society and the “Advent Store,” as it is called, has been and still is a powerful factor for good in this city. Frequently people tell about buying some food preparation at the “Advent Store,” and say, “Well, there is one thing that I like about your people: they believe in keeping clean and in eating pure food.” The influence of that institution will be sadly missed should it be closed. From it many of the better class are becoming acquainted with the principles we advocate through these “health foods.”
We are especially gratified to know that the camp-meeting is to be held here, and are praying that God will make a season of spiritual profit to the church and to the people of this city and vicinity. As I visit the people, I am convinced that God has many who are anxious and willing to know the truth as it is in Jesus. Dear brethren and sisters of Michigan, shall we not pray that God will make this convocation one of great power in the baptism of His people with the Spirit of God? Union and brotherly love prevail in all our borders, and we have nothing but courage in our hearts; for He that is for us is more than he that is against us. We ask an interest in the prayers of God’s people.
L. G. MOORE.
FROM NEBRASKA TO ALBERTA, NORTH-WEST TERRITORY.
By J. W. Boynton
In response to the recommendation of the late General Conference, I left Nebraska, June 19, in company with Elder Andrew Nelson and family, for Alberta, my new field of labor. By previous arrangements, I attended the camp-meetings at Morden and Carberry, Manitoba. The attendance at these meetings was small, only about one hundred being at each place, but the interest was good. At Morden some gave themselves to the Lord while watching the baptism, and were baptized.
At Carberry, for a few days it seemed hard to realize the need of God’s presence; but later on, light came in, and precious souls gained the victory. Several began to keep the Sabbath for the first time, and others are under deep conviction. On Sunday nine were buried in baptism, and we trust they will walk in newness of life henceforth. On Saturday night a severe wind and rain storm visited Manitoba, wrecking houses, barns, windmills, and damaging the crops in the vicinity of Carberry; but aside from blowing over a few tents and wetting everybody, no damage was done in camp. Brethren Nelson and Buhalts and several helpers remain with a tent, to develop the interest there.
I reached Calgary, Alberta, last Wednesday, and have thus far found one man and three women who keep the Sabbath. I shall go north this week to visit the isolated ones I have heard of, and seek for a location for my family, who will follow me in a few weeks. This is a large field with a scattered population, and will require much hard work to bring forth any fruit, but we know the Source of strength is just as near in the “north quarters” as in more favored lands; so we are of good courage to go forward and possess the land. Brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified in us and in the people here. J. W. BOYNTON.
Bureau of Information
Two families have settled at Rolyat, Tex., and we have already twelve or thirteen children for a church school. It would be a good place for any one wanting to get to a church school. Good land can be bought on time, one-fourth to one-third down, at from three dollars to five dollars an acre. Lumber can be bought at from $6.50 to $12.50 per thousand. C. P. BODWELL.
In harmony with the recommendations of the late General Conference that I should change my field of labor from Georgia to Michigan, and in harmony with the advice of the president of the Michigan Conference, I have located in the upper peninsula, in Menominee, at 606 Baker Ave., only a few steps west of the Northwestern passenger depot. Any of our brethren passing through who can stop off, will have a cordial welcome, as Adventists are scarce in this part of the State. M. W. LEWIS.
For the benefit of missionaries and others settling in a new country, I wish to give the result of some years of experience. Where the dwelling is near land first plowed or a swamp or marsh, a vapor of malaria arises, supposed to be carbonic oxide, a slow poison, which vitiates the blood and produces fevers. If sunflower seeds are planted in a belt around the dwelling, or a tree called Eucalyptus, both plants being gross feeders on carbonic oxide, the air will be left more pure for use; and in this way the dwellers, both old and young, will be protected. J. E. RANKIN.