When Christ was asked whether it was lawful to pay tribute to Cæsar or not, he required his questioners to show him a piece of tribute money, and they did. Looking at it he said, Whose image and superscription is this that I see upon the money? They said it was Cæsar’s image. He said, Then give to Cæsar what belongs to him. So when we come to examine the Sunday Sabbath we readily see that it bears the image and superscription of Rome, the old mother of harlots. It was coined in her mint and unmistakably bears her mark.
About the first thing that the school boy learns is the time table, telling him how many days there are in a year, how many months, how many weeks, how many days in the week, how many hours in the day, &c.; and that the day begins at midnight, and that this mode of reckoning is Roman time, i. e., it originated with the Romans and we have adopted it. He is told that the other nations reckon their time in a different manner, that in the Bible the day is reckoned, not from midnight to midnight, but from evening to evening, or from sunset till sunset. See Gen. 1; Lev. 23: 32; Mark 1: 32, and numerous authorities. That was God’s way of reckoning time. Now how is Sunday reckoned, Bible time, or Roman time? It is reckoned by Roman time of course, as we all well know, viz., from midnight to midnight. We ask then, Where did this mode of reckoning come from? Every body must agree in the answer, It came from Rome: it is wholly a Roman day. Thus we readily see that the Sunday Sabbath was coined in the old Roman mint. It bears the image and superscription of Rome. It carries the mark of the old mother of harlots upon its face. If it had come from God and the Bible it would have commenced at sundown, and not at midnight.
Again, if in the Bible God did set apart the first day of the week as the holy Sabbath day, then Sunday-keepers are all guilty of breaking it, because the Bible time, God’s time, commences at sunset, and the first day of the week would commence when the sun goes down Saturday night. But Sunday-keepers work several hours after sunset Saturday night, and thus break the very day they pretend to keep. Then they keep a part of Sunday night which is a part of the second day of the week. Thus they keep a part of two days, but actually work on every day in the week, and so really keep no day.
D. M. CANRIGHT.
Rome, N. Y.
ILLINOIS, READ THIS!
By G. W. Colcord
1. We want a very full attendance of the S. D. Adventists of Illinois, at the forthcoming camp-meeting at Waldron.
2. Why should we not see one tent, or more, from each organized church in the Conference? We can rent several in Chicago at $4.00 per tent. Order without delay. Order of the writer. Or you can make a tent of the following dimensions: 14x20 ft.; 4 ft. wall; steep roof. Put a strip of oilcloth over the ridge pole. Make the tent of heaviest sheeting. Try it and come.
3. We want a financial report, a church report, and a delegate with credentials from every church in the Conference.
4. We desire each church to re-arrange its S. S. tables for the new year beginning Oct. 1, 1876, and let as much as possible of the old pledge be paid to the State treasurer, J. R. Whitham, Aledo, Mercer Co., Ill., ten days before the meeting.
5. We want the best camp-meeting ever held in Illinois.
6. To this end, let the foregoing be duly considered by all concerned. G. W. Colcord.
SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS.
By A. C. Spicer
When asked for an exposition of scriptural doctrine, I can never know to what extent I may hope to be successful in presenting the light of revealed truth to the inquirer, however simple and clearly expressed it may appear to me; for I can not know to what degree the mind of the inquirer will be opened to receive the truth, or to what extent there will be a persistence in being controlled by previous education and customs, by superstition, tradition, or prejudice.
I do know, however, by personal experience and observation of many years, that upon the mind which is yielded a perfect slave to any of those characteristic impediments to the truth, the plainest and most forcible presentation of the most vital truths may make no impression whatever. An item of mere heathen philosophy or mythology, as that of “inherent immortality,” or a mere church dogma, as that of “the Divine presence in the sacrament,” once received into the mind and incorporated into the religious convictions and doctrine, especially by a very positive and intensely earnest mind, may shut out the light of Heaven in respect thereto forever. This is a strange phenomenon, but it is nevertheless a fact of frequent observation and experience. The reader, then, who would see the light of truth and walk in it, should be sure that his mind is liberated from bondage to any error or false doctrine, and by earnest prayer seek to be free to apprehend and accept the truth.
These thoughts have been suggested by the following paragraph from a letter from Texas which has been the occasion of the article on the first page of the Review this week:—
“Show me just one passage of Scripture which would require the Gentile nation to keep any Sabbath, either on the first or on the seventh day, and I will try hard to keep it; for I am in earnest about doing the will of God. But Paul, who was the apostle to the Gentiles, of which family I am, is on that subject as silent as the tomb.”
If it be a marvel “that blindness in part is happened to Israel,” so that part have rejected the Saviour—the Messiah—for whom they so anxiously longed, is it any less a wonder, that, notwithstanding what has been written, and especially by Paul, to break down national prejudice, Christians of Gentile origin, to whom inured the advantages of a knowledge of the gospel in consequence of the blindness of the Jews, should in return have allowed prejudice against the Jews to have so blinded them as to permit them to reject the plainest and most positive teachings of God’s word, even the life, example and teachings of the Saviour and his apostles whom they profess so much to love! I would exhort you “that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk in the vanity [prejudice] of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life [teaching and example] of God,” and teaching for gospel the theories, and “for doctrines the commandments, of men.”
A. C. SPICER.
WHAT IS COMING?
By Roswell F. Cottrell
Mr. MOODY is not an “alarmist,” but if he “reads the Scriptures aright,” some great event is about to come—the coming of the Lord, or some great war, he is not certain what.
Now any man of intelligence, observation, and discernment would be aware that some great event is before us, without the use of the Bible. The prophecies of the Scriptures were given to tell us what it is. And these prophecies bid the people who know God and his word to “sound an alarm,” because “the day of the Lord cometh,” and because “it is nigh at hand.” Joel 2:1. R. F. COTTRELL.
SUNDAY
By A. S. Hutchins
Buck, in his Theological Dictionary in speaking of Sunday, says, “The ancient Saxons called it by this name, because upon it they worshiped the sun; and shall Christians keep up the memory of that which was highly displeasing to God, by calling the Sabbath by that name, rather than by either of those he hath appointed? [Meaning Lord’s day and Sabbath.] It is, indeed, called Sunday, only because it is customary; but this, say they, will not justify men in doing what is contrary to the example and command of God in his word.”
Now one might justly infer from this that there is some example or command in the Bible for calling Sunday, Lord’s day, or Sabbath. But all the proof given sustaining this position is: “The words Sabbath and Lord’s day, say some, are the only names mentioned in Scripture respecting this day.”
The fact in this case is, the only name mentioned in the Scripture respecting this day is “first-day” or “first day of the week.”
Mr. Buck closes the article by saying, “But although it was in the primitive times indifferently called the Lord’s day, or Sunday, yet it was never denominated the Sabbath; a name constantly appropriated to Saturday, or the seventh day, both by sacred and ecclesiastical writers.”
A. S. Hutchins.
BATTLE CREEK COLLEGE.
By S. B.
THE first session of our school opened, according to announcement, last Wednesday morning with great promise of a successful term’s work. One hundred and two presented themselves the first morning for admission. Quite a number have since arrived.
The first two days were occupied mainly in examining those who enter for the first time. The classification was completed by Friday morning, and the order of recitations for the term was announced in the chapel. The students enter upon their work with commendable zeal and courage.
We as teachers are gratified to see a growing appreciation of education on the part of students. This is especially manifest in their strong desire, and in many instances, in their fixed determination, to complete one of the courses of study presented in our new Catalogue. While the special work of the school has opened so propitiously, the Battle Creek church is awakening to its responsibility, and a great effort is being made by the church to lead the children and youth to earnestly seek the Lord while seeking an education. The Spirit of the Lord is working for our school. We are all of good courage. S. B.
TO CHURCHES IN MICHIGAN.
By S. Brownsberger
LET us bear in mind that our annual meeting is just at hand. Let every church see that it is properly represented at the meeting by duly appointed delegates. A little carefulness and promptness on your part will insure a full representation and avoid delays at the opening.
If it were practicable, I should like to compare the report of each church on s. B., up to the close of third quarter. An effort should be made to pay up in full to that date. The churches visited by Eld. Canright are debited with pledges made during his visit. I find that reports sent in since, from some of those churches, make s. B. pledges to the State Conference for 1875 and ’76 fall below those given by Eld. Canright. It is difficult to properly dispose of such discrepancies. Any satisfactory explanation on this point will be gladly received.
I should be glad to be furnished with treasurer’s report of s. B. for each church. The account with each church for ’74, ’75, and ’76, has been carefully corrected and copied in a new book, and we are desirous that harmony in the comparison of our accounts should hereafter prevail.
S. BROWNSBERGER, Sec.
Europe On the Brink Over the Servian Question
If Europe is not involved in war over the Servian question, it will be very singular. There is a fire in the bosoms of several great nations, and they are likely to be burned. Russia shows strong symptoms of action, and when the old Bear strikes the “Sick Man,” there will be a movement all along the line. —Baptist Union.
TO THE BRETHREN IN NORTHERN NEW YORK.
By B. L. Whitney
Application has been made to the Rome, Watertown, and Ogdensburg R. R. for reduced fare for those coming over this road to our camp-meeting, which favor will undoubtedly be granted, though we have not as yet received their reply. The arrangement will probably be the same as last year, and the brethren will have to procure camp-meeting tickets at the stations from which they start, which, on being indorsed by the Conference Secretary, will be good for return passage.
We shall neglect no effort to effect this arrangement, and think the brethren can depend upon this favor from this company as heretofore. We make this statement, as this is the last paper that will be received before camp-meeting. B. L. WHITNEY.
Michigan Camp-Meeting.
By S. Brownsberger, Conf. Sec.
For the benefit of those who shall attend the Michigan Camp-meeting, we would respectfully announce,—
1. That arrangements have been made with the Detroit and Milwaukee, Chicago and Lake Huron, Detroit, Lansing and Lake Michigan, and the Fort Wayne, Jackson and Saginaw railroads, to return all passengers over their lines free on the 26th and 27th of September, who present a certificate to the conductor, showing that they have attended the meeting and have paid full fare in going. Certificates will be furnished on the camp-ground, and signed by the secretary of the Conference. No reduction will be made unless such certificate be presented. The roads named above have very kindly granted this reduction. Others have been solicited, from whom we expect a favorable reply. The Michigan Central grants no favors this season.
2. All who do not go to Lansing via Chicago and Lake Huron R. R. will please bear in mind to check all their baggage to North Lansing, as this will bring them within three-fourths of a mile of the camp-ground. If baggage is checked simply to Lansing it will be left at the main depot, which is much farther from the grounds. The committee will make all necessary arrangements for the transportation of passengers and baggage from this point to the camp-ground, at very reasonable rates.
3. Those coming via Chicago and Lake Huron R. R. will leave the train at a station about three miles from the grounds. The committee have already completed arrangements with the hack line, to carry passengers from this point to the grounds for 25cts. each; with 10 cts. extra for each piece of baggage which cannot conveniently be carried in hand.
As the return certificates will be good only on the 26th and 27th, it will be important that all come fully prepared to remain through the entire meeting. If any other roads grant us favors, prompt notice will be given through the REVIEW AND HERALD.
S. Brownsberger, Conf. Sec.
Progress of the Cause.
He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
WARREN CO., PA.
I preached eleven times on Quaker Hill, in Elk. The heads of one family began to keep the Sabbath, and there is not much doubt that another family will. A few others are interested. Hope to visit them again ere long. R. F. Cottrell.
POTSDAM, N. Y.
The interest here is still good. Although the temperance excitement, which is still high, and the weather and prevailing sickness have affected our meetings somewhat, yet the attendance has been unusually large. We had an excellent meeting last Sabbath, several expressing their desire to obey the whole truth; and the meetings Saturday evening and Sunday were the most solemn and interesting of any yet held.
An ex-minister, by special appointment, has given a discourse against us, which we reviewed with good effect.
S. H. Whitney, Jacob Wilbur. Aug. 29, 1876.
INDIANA.
Another week of labor has developed the fact that more are interested than we were aware of. Our attendance has not been large the last week. Nearly the same ones come each night. Last Sabbath we held our first Sabbath meeting. Twenty or more were present. Six voted to keep the Sabbath. Several more are deeply interested. Quite a number of those present took part in the social meeting.
The meetings at Marion last Sabbath were excellent. Some fifteen or more testified of their love for the truth, and seemed to rejoice in it. We hope through the blessing of the Lord more will take a stand at this place.
S. H. Lane, A. W. Bartlett. Peru, Ind., Aug. 29, 1876.
VIRGINIA TENT.
On Sunday, Eld. S. Henkel, of New Market, preached on the Sabbath question. Eld. Corliss reviewed him. Mrs. Lane, by urgent request, spoke in a United Brethren church, at Grove Hill; the house was crowded, and only about half were able to get in.
Monday and Tuesday we moved, and pitched the tent at Leaksville, Page Co. We held meeting Tuesday night, and have continued meetings since with an attendance ranging from one to three hundred, and good interest. The past week we have given seventeen discourses, visited twenty or more families, and held two Sabbath meetings at different places with good attendance.
Our hearts have been made sad; for we have been called to part with one of the little ones of our number, Lou Ellen, child of Eld. Corliss, aged nearly twenty months. She was buried last Friday, at New Market. She died of whooping cough. Away from home and among strangers, it is hard to leave the little ones strewn along the way. But the Lifegiver will soon come and we will meet them again, so we sorrow not without hope.
We can report progress and advancement for the cause here, also good courage on the part of the brethren and laborers.
J. O. Corliss, E. B. Lane. New Market, Va., Aug. 29.
WISCONSIN TENT, NO. 2.
We closed our meetings at Viroqua last evening. We have had a good hearing, and many are convinced of the truth; but only six have openly accepted it by rendering obedience. We think that others will yet obey. One thing worked against our success; we could induce the people to read but very little. The principal reason seemed to be that the people are much given to novel-reading.
Yesterday five were baptized. We expect to return in a few weeks, and try to glean some in the vineyard here. Last Sabbath about seventy-five Sabbath-keepers were present at our meeting; fifty-two spoke in the social meeting. They came from five to twenty-five miles. All seemed to be full of courage in the Lord.
We shall, the Lord willing, pitch the tent in Farmer’s Valley, Monroe Co., four miles east of Leon, and commence meetings next Thursday evening. We still ask the prayers of the faithful, that the Lord may bless our efforts to win people to his truth.
Our address, until further notice, will be Leon, Monroe Co., Wis. I. Sanborn.
NASHVILLE, MICH.
I have now been at this place five weeks; have given thirty-seven discourses. Two discourses have been given in opposition which have resulted favorably for the truth. We have had three Sabbath meetings. Eight, all heads of families, have decided to obey the truth. There are many here who acknowledge that the seventh day is the Sabbath, some of whom we have reason to hope will commence its observance.
Bro. Miller is now with me.
H. M. Kenyon. Aug. 28, 1876.
WESTERN KANSAS TENT.
Since our second answer to the M. E. minister of whom we have spoken, our opponents have kept very quiet on the Sabbath and Sunday question, evidently feeling that the word of God outweighs the traditions of men. The interest to hear present truth is extending into the country in almost every direction.
We closed our meeting in this place last Sabbath. Our Sabbath meetings are to be held in the city school-house in the first ward.
We have begun a meeting in the country, eight miles west of Council Grove. The interest appears good; one family has already decided to keep the Sabbath.
J. Lamont, N. W. Vincent. Council Grove, Aug. 29, 1876.
ONARGA, ILLINOIS.
Bro. R. F. Andrews and myself have been here with the new sixty-foot tent six days, and have held eight meetings. The weather is fine. Our congregations number about two hundred and fifty; the interest is increasing, and we labor in hope.
G. W. Colcord.
NEW YORK AND PENN. TENT, NO. 3.
The opposition at Ellington continued to the close of our meetings. Second day, Aug. 21, we took down the tent. The same evening I spoke at Clear Creek in a private house; about forty persons were present, all of whom are deeply interested in the truth. The next evening I held meeting three miles from Ellington, at the request of a family of three who had attended first-days at the tent. I held another meeting there Thursday night, with a good attendance and deep interest. An urgent request was made for a course of lectures. The family referred to embraced the Sabbath.
I held another meeting at Clear Creek Wednesday night, resulting in a most solemn and impressive baptismal season on Thursday morning. Sabbath, Bro. Brown remained with the friends at Clear Creek, to enable me to attend the Randolph quarterly meeting. He reports a most excellent meeting, all bearing testimony of earnest love for the truth.
The present, visible results of tent labor are, that sixteen are keeping the Sabbath, and eight have been baptized. If these are faithful, very many of those now deeply interested and almost persuaded will be added to their number. Immediately after the meetings in Madison Co., I have promised, Providence permitting, to return to Clear Creek, and endeavor to complete the work there. May the Lord continue to bless and overrule to his own honor and glory.
Chas. B. Reynolds.
SOUTHERN KANSAS.
During the past week we have held three meetings in Parsons, and visited from house to house. We have baptized two; and two more have embraced the truth, making seven in town. But six of these do not expect to stay in this place over from two to four weeks, so the prospect for forming a church here is not flattering.
During this time, we have held five meetings five miles north, at Bro. Blake’s. Three have embraced the truth there, and prospects are good for others to follow.
J. H. Cook. Parsons, Aug. 28, 1876.
DAKOTA TENT.
We closed our meetings in Elk Point, Aug. 20. As a result of our labor twenty-four are now keeping the Sabbath. We sold fifty dollars and fifty cents’ worth of books, and obtained twelve subscribers for our periodicals. Through the kindness of the people, more than enough was donated to pay all our expenses.
Our tent is now pitched in Vermillion. We commence meetings to-night. God has helped us in the past, and we ask the prayers of his children that he may sustain us in the future.
F. A. Barlow, E. W. Farnsworth. Vermillion, Clay Co., Dakota, Aug. 25.
MICHIGAN.
On the way to join Bro. Kenyon, I stopped at Carson City to help settle some matters which threatened the prosperity of this church. The people here are erecting a house of worship, and if Bro. and Sr. White could be present at its dedication, all would be greatly pleased.
Sabbath and Sunday, Aug. 26 and 27, I filled Bro. K.’s appointment at Gaines. The meetings were of a very encouraging nature. About twenty came forward for prayers. Three received baptism; and a class of twenty-two was formed. Many of these started for the first time to serve the Lord.
I have now been at Nashville three days. The interest is deepening and we look for a church to be raised up here.
A. O. Burrill.
KENTUCKY TENT.
We have now been at this place three weeks. The interest is still good, the congregations averaging from one hundred and fifty to two hundred and fifty. The whole country for miles around is being stirred. We have canvassed the Sabbath question fully; and several have commenced its observance. Books sell quite freely.
Invitations are coming in from different directions requesting lectures. One is a petition with twenty-seven names signed, said to be those of the best citizens of the place.
Bro. R. P. Pickens, of Greenup county, is now with me as tent-master, and renders efficient aid in the sale of books, &c., &c. Our health and courage are good. Pray for the cause here. S. Osborn. Bear Wallow, Horse Cave P. O., Aug. 27.
NORTH-EASTERN MISSOURI TENT.
We have removed the tent from Memphis, and for ten days have been laboring in the country six miles from town. This has been a hard field to make an impression on, but at last the waters are being stirred, and the people of the town and surrounding country are greatly agitated.
The preachers of Memphis held a council when we first went there and resolved to let us alone, which they certainly did, that is, while we were there. Since we have left, however, they have become quite brave, and are writing for the papers; while the president of Monticello College has begun the pulpit opposition. Others of the people are corresponding with Dr. Lucas, of Canton, the leading Disciple orator in this country, to come and oppose us. We had a pleasant time with Eld. Browning, a Disciple minister, last week. He preached twice at the tent on the Sunday side, and was reviewed.
The general sentiment here seems to be that we preach the truth. Ten have taken their stand since we came to Memphis, and others have said they shall. We shall go back to Memphis to congratulate the ministers of the town upon their bravery, and to carry on the work there, if any place to preach in can be had.
On the 7th of September we intend to begin meetings in the tent, three miles west of Greenburg, Knox Co., and on Sabbath and Sunday, Sept. 16 and 17. We desire to have a general rally of all Sabbath-keepers within reach. Come in your wagons, bring provisions and bedding, and be at the tent Friday afternoon, the 15th.
We were compelled to give up Bro. Rogers last Thursday, he having received a dispatch that his son Robert was dying. We are glad to hear, however, that there is some hope of his recovery. May the Lord bless him and us and the Conference, officers, preachers and people.
H. Wren, L. R. Long.
TENNESSEE.
From July 25 to Aug. 3, I made some visits which were interesting and, I trust, profitable, and obtained one subscriber for the Review. I was refused the use of a Presbyterian house of worship, but obtained a Baptist house, and commenced meetings Aug. 4; but I was again attacked with the ague and forced to leave the field.
Orlando Soule.
AMONG THE SWEDES.
Within a few days we have had encouraging reports from different directions. One writes from Ishpeming, Mich., “I met a little company of believers at Bangor, Maine; and the Spirit witnessed that they were children of God. I have not met with such people before since I left the Baptist church in Gottland, Sweden, three years ago. This little company were Adventists in name, and all Americans. Since I came to this place I learn that there are Swedish Adventists at Battle Creek who publish a paper called Advent Herald, and I wish to subscribe for it for half a year.”
An American brother in Humboldt Co., California, sends $2.00 for the Herald to be sent to him, as there are Swedes around him who are interested in the truth. Another in Kansas writes to us to send the Herald to a certain Swede; “for he is a very intelligent man and interested.” Another comes from Newton Co., Missouri, of a like import. We also hear that one in Marion, Ind., has begun to keep the Sabbath of late. Another from Boston says, “Send me a copy of the Swedish paper.”
Our dear Bro. Whisby, of Mount Eden, Cal., sends a letter which he just received from Sweden. We extract from it, and also from Bro. Whisby’s:—
“Dear Brother: Inclosed is a letter from Bro. Bruce, in Sweden, which I have read with great joy. I have shed tears of gladness to think that I have, through the grace of God, been the means of bringing some of my fellow-men to the great light of truth. I have received letters from different places in Sweden, where I have sent the Herald and tracts, and where my wife has also sent papers, and we find that the tracts and papers were gladly received. It is my daily prayer that faithful servants may be raised up to go and preach the truth to my countrymen. What great love God has shown me in letting the light shine into my heart! My faith grows stronger every day. I am glad that the coming of Christ is near, and I do wish to be ready when he comes. Come life or death, I will try to gain a complete victory.
May my countrymen be stirred up to seek the Lord! Would that God’s Spirit might be poured out on Old Sweden, so that sinners there might be saved before probation closes.”
The following is an extract from Bro. Bruce’s letter:—
“Ostersling in Stange, Gottland, Sweden, July 18, 1876. “Dear Brother in Christ: Your letter of the 24th was gladly received, and also the tracts, prophetic chart, and journals, for which I return you my heartfelt thanks. You wish to know what good the Herald has done here. I will answer, My housekeeper, eighty years of age, and myself, esteem it of very great value, and87we peruse it with joy and satisfaction. This is the reason she incloses five crowns to you to pay postage and help reward you for the favor you showed us in sending these publications. Madame Lindblad has been my friend for thirty-seven years. She cannot now see to read; therefore, I read for her. This to her is a great consolation. We are both convinced that the papers sent to us teach the Bible truth; and we faithfully study their teachings, and, so far as we are able, keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. There are three of us who keep the Sabbath. The name of the other is Madame Westberg.
“I have for thirty years submitted to the Lord’s reproving Spirit, and endured many severe trials in the spiritual warfare. I am now sixty-eight years of age. I am slender and weak, and wait with joy for my time of deliverance. I know in whom I trust. To live is Christ, and to die is gain.
“May the Lord bless all who have this good work at heart, and give them success in their undertakings. We have sent the papers to many of our acquaintances. We loan papers and tracts to many around us. Some say the resurrection day is the Sabbath. Some are too much taken up with worldly matters to attend to such things. If some one should come here and preach it might be that some would believe.
“Your brother in Christ, A. E. Bruce.”
We have lately received another interesting letter from Bro. Ekdall in Sweden. He is continuing to translate from the Review and Signs, for the Herald.
James Sawyer.
TO EVERY MAN HIS WORK.
Our Master has taken his journey
To a country far away,
And has left us a task to finish
Against his reckoning day.
There's a work for me, and a work for you,
Something for each of his servants to do.
Your task may be great and glorious,
And mine but a simple one:
It differs little. The question is,
Will his coming find it done?
Or, perhaps in his deeper knowledge
He has thought it wise and best,
That, while others toil in service,
Our part be to wait and rest.
It matters not, in this little while,
Whether we work, or watch, or wait;
So we fill the place he assigns us,
Be the service small or great.
There is one thing only concerns us,
To find the task that is ours,
And then, having found it, to do it
With all our God-given powers.
Our Master is coming most surely,
To reckon with every one;
Shall we then count the toil or sorrow,
If his sentence be “well done?”
—Faith and Works.
VERMONT CONFERENCE.
By A. S. Hutchins; C. W. Stone
The fourteenth annual session of the Vermont Conference was held at Milton, Vt., in connection with the camp-meeting. The session was opened with prayer by Eld. U. Smith. Delegates from thirteen churches were present. A letter from a company in Bolton and Stukely, asking to be united with the Vermont and Canada Conference, was read by Eld. A. C. Bourdeau, under whose labors this company were brought into the truth. They were received into the Conference and their delegate accepted.
By vote of Conference, the Chair appointed the following committees: On Nominations, A. C. Bourdeau, Thomas Purdon, Henry Pierce; Auditing Committee, M. Gould, J. Barrows, S. H. Peck, P. F. Bicknell, D. Wilcox, E. P. Cram; On Resolutions, Eld. U. Smith, H. Peebles, C. W. Stone; On Credentials and Licenses, N. Orcutt, C. P. Whitford, H. E. Pierce.
Voted, To appoint a committee to audit the accounts of the Camp-meeting Committee. L. J. Hall, M. N. Cross, and S. H. Peck, were appointed said committee.
SECOND SESSION.
The second session was opened, Sunday, Aug. 20, with prayer by Eld. Bean. The report of the Committee on Resolutions was read and accepted. The following resolutions were finally adopted:—
Resolved, That we hereby express our gratitude to the General Conference for the help furnished us at this camp-meeting.
Resolved, That, although we can hardly realize the extent of the labors of Bro. and Sr. White, yet we appreciate the sacrifice of ease and comfort which they are obliged to make in thus coming to labor with us; and we tender our hearty sympathy to them personally, and assure them of our confidence in their work.
Resolved, That we express to the General Conference an earnest request for permanent ministerial help for this Conference, if it can be spared from other fields.
Resolved, That we deem it the duty of some of the young men of our Conference to move out as laborers in the cause of God; and we earnestly request them to enter upon the work.
Resolved, That we still feel in sympathy with the missionary operations connected with the cause of present truth, and we rejoice in the success attending this branch of the work.
Resolved, That we still have confidence in the great health reform movement, and we urgently recommend to all our people to still cherish it, both in theory and practice.
Resolved, That we approve the system of reporting our camp-meetings for the secular papers, introduced by Bro. White, and we appreciate the efficient help he has furnished for this purpose.
Bro. White then introduced the following, with appropriate remarks:— Whereas, The General Conference has the supervision of the cause in the entire field, in all its branches, and whereas the State Conference Committees have the oversight of the work in the several States, therefore,
Resolved, That in important matters, such as locating the camp-meeting, the Camp-meeting Committee shall consult the Executive Committee of the Conference; and that it is the privilege and duty of the President of the Conference to also consult the President of the General Conference in all such important matters.
The report of the Committee on Nominations was accepted, and the following officers elected:— President, A. S. Hutchins; Executive Committee, A. S. Hutchins, L. Bean, S. H. Peck; Secretary, C. W. Stone; Treasurer, H. W. Pierce; Camp-meeting Committee, M. E. Kellogg, E. R. Bancroft, E. P. Farnsworth.
The report of the Committee on Credentials and Licenses was read and accepted. Credentials were renewed to Elds. A. S. Hutchins, A. Stone, A. C. Bourdeau, Lewis Bean, N. Orcutt, and D. T. Bourdeau. Licenses were given to C. W. Stone and R. S. Owen.
Adjourned to call of Chair.
At the third session it was voted to donate $200 to the General Conference. It was also voted to have the proceedings of the Conference published in the REVIEW.
Adjourned. A. S. HUTCHINS, Pres. C. W. STONE, Sec.