Earlier text: HOW TO WORKSome writers on chronology have had not a little to say, first and last, on a supposed prophetic period which they introduce under the name of “the seven times,” and interpret to mean a period of 2,520 years. Marvelous is the arithmetical and historical jugglery then resorted to to find a starting point and an ending place for this important and far-reaching period. The latest in this line is a long article in one of our March monthly exchanges, in which the writer finds four points from which to begin, and the same number at which to end, them. The table of these times he introduces with this Latin flourish, containing a marvelous combination of singular and plural: “Termini a quo and ad quem of the Seven Times.” It is claimed that this period is found in Leviticus 26:18, 21, 24, 28. The only trouble with this is that there is no such period brought to view in that chapter, nor anywhere else in all the Bible. When the Lord through Moses declared to the children of Israel, “If ye will not for all this hearken unto me, . . . . I will chastise you seven times for your sins,” the language employed was not an adjective and a noun, indicating duration, but simply an adverb indicating degree. It is not in the Septuagint, ἑπτὰ καιροί, a noun and its adjective, seven times, as in Dan. 4:16, but ἑπτάκις, an adverb, seven times or sevenfold. Neither is it in the Hebrew a noun and its adjective, as in Dan. 4:16, שִׁבְעָה עִדָּנִין, but simply an adverb שֶׁבַע. Under this word Gesenius says: “The form שֶׁבַע is also: a a) Adv. seven times, Lev. 26:18, 21.” It strikes us that it would be far better for people to spend their strength in trying to ascertain the correct application of the prophetic periods that are given in the Bible, rather than figure so laboriously to find a place to begin and end those which are not given; and so avoid being like the man who in reading the parable of the talents, Luke 19:21, “For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man,” read it, “an oyster man,” and entered into an elaborate argument to show the fitness of such a comparison! A. A. THOMAS: See the question of the day of Christ’s crucifixion discussed in REVIEW No. 12 of last volume, and in other places too numerous to mention. W. G. BRALLIAR: It is true that Mosheim was a writer of the 18th century, and Neander of the 19th. Whatever statements they make concerning the early ages of the Christian era, they must draw, like all other modern writers, from evidences which have come down from those times. But they are not the writers upon whom Christians rely to prove the authenticity and genuineness of the New Testament Scriptures. Historical evidence can be traced back to the days of the apostles themselves. See chapters 17, 18, and 19 of the work, “The Bible from Heaven.” A correspondent asks us to inform him where Lot’s wife is at the present time. It has been a long time since any one has been able to trace her movements. The fact of her falling under the judgments of God for her disobedience, would preclude the possibility of her being in Heaven. There is equally good evidence that she is not in hell. The last we hear of her in the Scripture record is, that she was a pillar of salt between Sodom and Zoar. If our correspondent designs to ask what has become of that monument, or if any traces of it can be found at the present time, we answer that explorers who of late years have searched for it, report that they find no trace of anything which can be identified as the remains of that unfortunate woman. There is nothing, apparently, in her being turned into a pillar of salt which would necessitate permanency. The material would probably waste away and in process of time entirely disappear, though Josephus declares that it was in existence in his time, and Clement, following him, makes the same claim. Vice Has More Martyrs Than Virtue
—Vice has more martyrs than virtue.—Colton. THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES FOR 1880.
By Editor
Having made some improvements in the Signs, both in appearance and contents, we have concluded to give the tract societies their choice between the two editions. We have received many criticisms on the eight-page edition, because its size would not admit that variety of reading matter which was thought indispensable to a successful missionary paper, and some have suggested that the twelve-page edition would be more acceptable to the tract societies. We are not only willing, but anxious, to please those societies which have worked so diligently and effectively in the past. The Signs of the Times is no experiment. Experience has fully proved that it is necessary to have two papers,—one for a church paper, the organ of the denomination. Our brethren throughout the country—on the Pacific as well as on the Atlantic—have done well in accepting the ADVENT REVIEW as the church organ. We are pleased with our success in placing it in almost every family of Sabbath-keepers in California. ‘Besides this we must have a missionary paper; one which, while it advocates the great truths of the third angel’s message, is not so distinctly denominational as the REVIEW; one which shall contain a variety of that which will be of greatest interest to new readers, with none of the matters pertaining to the churches only, such as can be of no interest to those not identified with us as a people. To serve this purpose the Signs of the Times has been published. We do not intend to let the Signs fall below what it has been in the past, but, on the contrary, we shall aim to make it better than any volume which has been published. Our twelve-page edition, being stitched and trimmed, is more convenient to handle, and contains more matter than the eight pages of previous volumes. This affords opportunity for that variety of reading which must render it acceptable to the tract societies, and to the numerous readers throughout the world to whom it is sent. PUBLISHERS SIGNS OF THE TIMES. OUR HIGH CALLING.
By Stephen Nelson Haskell
When we consider the importance and sacredness of God’s work, and the imperfection of the human instrumentalities he has used, and is using, to carry it forward, the words of the poet seem peculiarly appropriate,— “Oh, to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be!”
The influence of this world, its wealth, customs, and popularity, are all arrayed in deadly conflict against the truth of God; still its victorious march is seen in the case of the humble, confiding child of God, whose life is devoted to the accomplishment of the work of God upon the earth. Those who so devotedly believe the truth that they can waive personal interests, and sacrifice their ease, comfort, and pleasure for its advancement, are partakers of the Divine nature, and are uniting their interests with a cause which will finally triumph and bear off an eternal victory. It is “not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of Hosts.” The tract and missionary societies have thus far been efficient in accomplishing the objects set before them; but their future success depends upon a close union with God on the part of the workers. Nothing short of a daily experience in divine things will avail for us in the perilous times upon which we have fallen. It will require constant thought and much meditation and prayer to enable us to partake of the Divine nature, and ripen for the kingdom of God. Putting forth efforts under difficulties gives an experience which can be attained in no other way. The special call for colporters opens a new field of labor, and will test the hold which many have on God, and the amount of real love for souls which they possess. If missionary workers do no more than to call on families, have a social chat with them, and give away a few tracts, but little will be accomplished. To bring men and women to a saving knowledge of the truth is the object of our labor, and this object should constantly be kept before the mind. The mechanic goes to his work at a stated hour, and returns to his home at an appointed time daily; but not so with the colporter or minister who is actively engaged in the service of his Master. Time and talents are consecrated to Him who has called him to this field of labor; and he remembers that a faithful record is kept in Heaven of every misspent hour. A thorough conversion of head, heart, person, and substance is needed. There should not only be a willingness, but a desire, to economize and sacrifice for the privilege of laboring for the Master. Christ, whose servants we are, had not where to lay his head. He came to earth to exemplify the missionary spirit; he suffered contumely and reproach that he might see souls saved in the kingdom of God. Are we better than he? A few short years of labor and toil, then an eternal weight of glory. Who would not strive for it? The apostle Paul presents, as an evidence of our joint-heirship with Christ, the fact of our having suffered with him, in the following words: “Heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ, if so, be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” A LIVE religious family paper, containing, in addition to the great variety of original articles, which make it a desirable prophetic journal, departments devoted to Temperance, The Home Circle, News, The Missionary Work, and The Sabbath-school. To new subscribers, with Way of Life as premium, 2.00 To tract societies when ordered for the poor, or in clubs for free distribution, 1.50 Condensed from the above. Per year, $1.25 In clubs of ten or more, each, 1.00 Address, Signs of the Times, Oakland, California. —Cometh the blessing down,
Cometh the joy from Heaven,
Cometh the victor’s crown,
The sense of sins forgiven,
To him who nothing offers to his gracious Lord,
But a heart of deep contrition and a trusting of his word. THE T. AND M. INSTITUTE AT SIGOURNEY, IOWA.
By Geo. L. Butler
Once more we call attention to this important meeting, earnestly requesting all who can, to attend, especially ministers and T. and M. officers. To give all a better chance to attend, we have concluded to omit the usual State quarterly meeting, for this quarter, which was to have been held in Sandyville the last of April. The regular reports from districts should be sent to Lizzie Hornby, Davenport, Iowa, as is usual after the district meetings have been held. We hope for full reports. The T. and M. Institute at Sigourney will be of greater importance than a State quarterly meeting; so let us have a large attendance. The practical instruction in book-keeping afforded at this Institute will be of more than sufficient value to justify the expense, even if we had no higher motive than to learn to do our own business correctly. A person who has learned to keep the T. and M. books correctly, can keep his own. We have the assistance of a practical book-keeper who asks us nothing, as individuals, for the instruction given. Let those who can, bring bedding, and be as little burden as possible upon our friends at Sigourney. We shall try to improve every moment of the time, and expect it will be an opportunity of spiritual improvement as well as of instruction in the different branches of our work. GEO. L. BUTLER, Pres. Iowa T. and M. Society. LABOR IN HOPE.
By M. L. Huntley
“In due season we shall reap if we faint not.” MANY efficient workers are inclined to become discouraged and inactive in the missionary work, because they do not see immediate results of their labors. But frequently just as they reach this point, circumstances develop the fact that the seed they have sown has been taking root, and is now ready to spring up and bear an abundant harvest. The following letter from a brother who has been sending out reading matter, illustrates the experience of many:— “Dear Bro. ——: I herewith inclose a letter from ——, in which he expresses a desire for help. You can see what an interest he has in the truth. . . . I have been of the opinion that I could not do anything in the cause of God, but I have changed my mind. We can all work in the vineyard of the Lord. We must sow the seed, and wait patiently for God to give the increase. This is my first effort in the T. and M. work which has borne any fruit, and it gives me courage to make greater efforts than ever before. The letter is as follows: ‘I have distributed all the tracts you so kindly sent me, and would like to have another package. I saw ——, and we decided to take the Signs together. The next time I see him, I will get a dollar from him, and send you two dollars for the twelve-page edition. I would like very much to read the life of Wm. Miller. If you have it, send it to me. Have you heard anything about the truth? I hope they will send a strong man here to proclaim the truth.’” Previous to the reception of this letter, an earnest request had been made for tent labor at that place by the gentleman to whom it was addressed. Thus it is evident that two persons are about taking a stand for the truth as the result of the efforts of this brother who had thought that he could do nothing in the cause of God. And not only this, but the way is being opened for the truth to be publicly proclaimed to many others. Let all missionary workers take courage. T. AND M. INSTITUTE AT OAKLAND, WIS.
By G. C. Tenney
This meeting, just closed, was even more successful than, on account of the short notice given, was anticipated. The class numbered about sixty, and the different parts of the State were represented. Nearly all the ministers of the Conference were present. Instructions were given in T. and M. work, Sabbath-school and Conference departments, and singing. A good degree of the blessing of God was sensibly felt throughout. The importance of this work was made very plain to us; and while we realized our lack of zeal in the past, we felt to resolve to be more earnest in the future. God blessed our meetings on the Sabbath. The word spoken was timely and well received. The general T. and M. fund received some attention, $120 being pledged and paid to it. It was recommended by the meeting to raise a State reserve fund of $1000, in shares of $20 each. Thirteen of these shares were taken at the time. All feel much encouraged; and though proficiency in the system of work could hardly be attained in so short a time, there is a willingness to engage in the work, and we confidently expect a better state of the cause. All were especially glad to see at this meeting our aged Brother Atkinson, who though feeble in health, encouraged us much by his testimony, and faith in God. At the close of the meeting the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:— Resolved, That as members of the Oakland T. and M. Institute, we would express our gratitude to God for the privileges enjoyed in these meetings, and for the measure of his blessing which has attended us. Resolved, That we accept the light which God has given us by his Spirit concerning the importance of the work of circulating our publications, and pledge ourselves to engage in this work with increased zeal and earnestness. Resolved, That we express our appreciation of the kind and efficient labor of Bro. Whitney, and pray God's blessing to attend him in his important and arduous work. Resolved, That we feel under great obligations to the church at Oakland for their hospitable and kind entertainment, during this meeting. OHIO T. AND M. RESERVE FUND.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
WHILE nearly all the other Conferences have raised more or less for a reserve tract fund, we, for various reasons, have made no effort in this direction. But we can put it off no longer. Having decided to deal in Teachers' Bibles, Family Bibles, Concordances, Dictionaries, and other religious books in addition to our own, and to have all our ministers sell for the society, a capital of about $1,200 is required to keep a stock on hand without running in debt. Besides, we can buy much cheaper for cash than on credit. Therefore, the friends of the cause in Ohio are invited to raise $1,200 for this good object. The money is needed now; still, pledges can be made to it, and the money paid as soon as consistent. Each minister and librarian will please lay the matter before the brethren, and take their pledges. The money can be paid through the librarians, or, if more convenient, it can be sent directly to our State Secretary, Miss Ida Sharpe, Clyde, Ohio, or to myself at the same place. Our more able brethren, who can give $100 or more, are specially invited to give to this State fund. THE MINNESOTA INSTITUTE.
By B. L. Whitney
ALL are agreeably surprised in the attendance at this Institute, which commenced at Medford, Minn., Wednesday evening, March 24. The class, which already numbers over sixty, includes all the Wisconsin ministers except one, and a good representation of brethren and sisters from different parts of the State. Considering the roads, which are very bad, this attendance seems surprising. An excellent interest is taken in the meetings thus far, and there is every prospect of a successful Institute. Medford, Minn., March 26. Ministers Urged to Be Clean Vessels
—The old exhortation, “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord,” was never more in need of being written in every minister’s heart than it is to-day.—Examiner and Chronicle. Canby, Lincoln Co., March 21.—The Lord has given me freedom in presenting the message before the people here. Many have listened with attention to the word spoken. The Lutheran priest is doing all he can to keep the people away from our meetings, and warn his members against me. Have preached eight times. I intend to stay another week, at least, and after faithfully doing my duty, leave the result with the Lord. Will the dear people of God remember me in their prayers? C. NELSON. Kasota, March 22.—I have been laboring in this vicinity about four weeks. Some have covenanted to keep the commandments of God, and others are deeply interested. Indeed, the interest, which was good from the first, deepened and widened until the close of the meetings. Last Sabbath a Sabbath-school was held in the school-house. Twenty were present, and the interest was good. Sold some copies of the Song Anchor, and obtained eight subscribers for the REVIEW. We earnestly desire that this people may be sanctified through the truth. W. B. HILL. Clyde, Allegan Co.—I met with the brethren here March 21, 22. Our meetings were of an encouraging nature. The Methodist preacher spoken of in my last report, took a decided stand for the truth at these meetings. Two discourses have recently been given here against the Sabbath, by Eld. Hall (Baptist), to both of which I replied. His positions were so contradictory that the truth only appeared in a clearer light. A company of twenty-five was organized; others will join them soon. Steps were taken toward organizing a Sabbath-school. Fifteen copies of the weekly Instructor were ordered. At the close of the meeting Sunday evening, I received a challenge from Eld. Scott, of Decatur (Free-will Baptist), for a discussion on the Sabbath, and the state of the dead. Circumstances seem to require that I accept. March 23, I visited a family by the name of McCollum. They had never heard a discourse on the various points of our faith. The wife commenced the observance of the Sabbath last August; the husband kept last Sabbath for the first. They were led to accept the truth by reading the pamphlet written by Eld. Littlejohn, “The Constitutional Amendment.” The Lord has blessed the truth to the good of the people here. To his name be all the praise. Freeland.—In consequence of an injury by a horse, I was unable to labor for several weeks; but as soon as I dared to venture, I held meetings in several places. At last, by urgent request of the church at Freeland, Saginaw Co., and the advice of Eld. E. R. Jones, I entered upon a course of meetings here, under very unfavorable circumstances. Serious difficulties which threatened the disruption of the church, imposed a heavy burden; for, while discoursing to crowded houses evenings, it was necessary to plead earnestly with the church every Sabbath on the subjects of union, confession, and charity. The word of God, by his Spirit, has taken some effect, and light begins to come in. The friends at Williamstown are in frequent attendance. Seeing their duty plainer, confessions have been made, and harmony is being restored among them. A wide breach had been made here by an estate being thrown into law for settlement; but it is now being settled by mutual agreement. The outside interest has steadily increased, and some are already deciding to obey the truth. Two Catholic young men have frankly acknowledged their conviction that we have the truth, and that Catholicism is wrong. There is hope of some fruit here, and we feel to acknowledge God’s mercy and blessing, and continue to labor as duty may demand. Davis City, Afton, and Osceola.—Since my last report, I have held seven meetings at Davis City. Three were received into the church, one of whom had quite recently taken his stand for the Sabbath. The brethren are of good courage. I then went to Afton. Found the brethren somewhat divided in sentiment upon some points. Two declared their intention to keep the Sabbath. Have some hopes of a better state of feeling in this place. I next came to Osceola, where we have enjoyed some good meetings. The brethren here are all full of courage and hope. J. H. MORRISON. Albany, March 22.—We closed our meetings in this place last evening, with a crowded house, some being unable to gain admittance. As the result of our effort here, sixteen have signed the covenant, and three or four others have commenced to keep the Sabbath. One favorable feature is, that there is not a broken family in this company; every husband has his wife with him in the truth. Three were keeping the Sabbath when we came here, and now there is a company of over twenty, all but two of whom are heads of families. We organized a Sabbath-school last Sabbath. There will be about twenty children of Sabbath-keeping parents, and some others we think will join the school, making over forty scholars. A Freewill Baptist and his wife are among the number who have accepted the truth. He has preached for thirty years, and will make a good leader. He has been addicted to the use of tobacco, but says that, by the grace of God, it shall go, with other errors. Bro. E. W. Farnsworth was here, and preached three discourses, which gave an impetus to the work; and Bro. A. Daniels has been with us a good share of the time, rendering efficient aid. I stopped at Maynard a short time. The secretary of the Sabbath-school there gives an encouraging report. There are on the roll twenty-six names of scholars and teachers. The brethren need help, and Bro. Daniels will hold Sabbath meetings here for awhile. The Lord has helped us this winter, and our courage is good. J. D. PEGG. West Union, Waukon, Village Creek, and Clarence.—Feb. 28, 29, I spent with the church at West Union. The churches in the northern part of the State have for two years been almost entirely without preaching, and I fear they have suffered some on this account. There seemed to be nothing particularly discouraging in this church. I was with the church at Waukon, March 6, 7. This is one of the oldest churches in the State, and was one of the largest; but it has been greatly reduced by removals. As the more prominent members have moved away, leaving the burdens to drop upon other shoulders, we fear that some who remain have not realized these obligations as they should, and as a result they have grown but little spiritually, and a general feeling of discouragement rested upon the church. I tried to set before them those mutual obligations which rest upon every member of the church. A leader was appointed, and the ordinances were celebrated, and the church seemed somewhat revived, though I could not repress the thought that if those who had been so remiss in duty in the past did not see the sinfulness of such a course, and reform, the church would soon become extinct. Sold several volumes of “Spirit of Prophecy.” I went to Village Creek, March 13. This little church, mostly composed of Swedes, is still battling for the right. Some outside interest was manifested, and we think a good impression was left. March 20, 21, I spent with the Clarence church. The members of this little church are scattered, and it is with considerable difficulty that they meet. Most of the brethren from Olin were at the meeting, and quite a good representation from Lisbon, so we had a good congregation, and our meetings were profitable. The brethren have a neat house of worship, and here, as elsewhere, it has a tendency to give permanency to the work. A commendable zeal was manifested in obtaining useful reading matter. My experience while laboring with the churches during the last three months convinces me that our people are suffering more from a neglect to read the Testimonies and other works of that nature than from any other one cause. I am amazed at the almost universal neglect of these works, and cease to wonder that many of our people are backslidden and discouraged. March 23. E. W. FARNSWORTH. Allentown, Turner Co., March 22.—Closed our meetings here last night, after having given twenty-nine discourses. Twelve are keeping the Sabbath, two of whom were keeping it before we came. Several more are deeply interested, but want to investigate a little further before deciding. I sold about $5.00 worth of publications, obtained six subscribers for the REVIEW, two for the Swedish paper, and four for the weekly Instructor, also distributed 1,555 pages of tracts. I hope those who have taken a stand will feel the importance of being thoroughly converted. The expense of these meetings has been about $2.00. I feel to praise God for what he has done for this people, and for me. D. T. BIGGS. Madison, March 22.—Since my last writing, I have been laboring to set things in order, and gather in those who are interested. Twenty have signed the covenant; and we have organized a tract society with nineteen members, raised a club of eighteen for the weekly Instructor, and nineteen for the Signs, and obtained nine subscribers for the REVIEW, four for Good Health, and one for the Tidende. The tithing system was generally adopted. Eight or ten have commenced the observance of the Sabbath, and nearly all have taken part in the meetings. The Lord has wrought powerfully for us, and some who had wandered far from God and the truth have been brought back, and are now rejoicing in the light. Among those who have signed the covenant are a Baptist family, who have embraced the Sabbath since my last report. As the friends from the East had not received their letters, we could not fully organize the church, but expect to do so at our next visit, when we expect that a number more will be baptized and unite with them. LATER, MARCH 24.—Three more have signed the covenant. A vigilant missionary society has been partially organized, with twelve members. I have sold two sets of “Spirit of Prophecy,” and obtained four full members to the H. and T. Association on the teetotal pledge. Circumstances have seemed to make it necessary to remain here longer than I had designed, but the results seem to indicate that it is providential. S. B. WHITNEY. Aroostook Co., March 17.—I came to this county Jan. 8, and joined Bro. S. J. Hersum in labor. Our meetings have been good, and I trust profitable to those who have attended them. Some who were discouraged and backslidden have been reclaimed, and some have taken a decided stand for the truth. Our brethren generally have manifested a willingness to adopt the tithing system, and to do what they can to help forward the cause, but it is impossible to get money at present; they can pay debts at the store with produce, but get no money for it. This makes it very difficult to get means to buy books or take our periodicals.221 At East Washburn we organized a church of twelve members, and four have since united, making sixteen in all. After the tent was taken down one year ago last August, a strong effort was made to destroy all that had been done during the tent-meetings. Ministers of different denominations have been here and preached against the Sabbath and law, and some have taken pains to go from house to house and advise our brethren and sisters not to go into church organization, or accept the visions of Mrs. E. G. White. The result is, as has been stated, a church has been formed, and the brethren and sisters are very anxious for Bro. and Sister White to visit them another summer, if they can consistently with other duties. We have organized a health and temperance club here, and 138 in this county have signed the teetotal pledge; total to the three pledges, 175. This is encouraging. Some noble victories have been won over tobacco and tea. Only twenty-nine have as yet paid the initiation fee; others will as soon as they can. Every Sabbath-keeper in Maine should sign the teetotal pledge, and get as many others to sign as they can. Some who were not Sabbath-keepers that signed the pledge last fall, are now rejoicing in the truth. Get people interested in the temperance reform, and the way is prepared for them to accept the whole truth. We re-organized the Sabbath-school at East Washburn. The non-revival of the wicked dead had been agitated in the place, and was causing some unpleasant feelings; so Bro. Hersum spoke upon the subject Feb. 8, showing that the Scriptures teach the resurrection of the wicked dead. Dr. Lonfest spoke in the afternoon on the opposite side, and Bro. Hersum reviewed him in the evening. Some have confessed their error, and renounced the non-resurrection doctrine. God has helped in this place. To him be all the praise. I thank God for the light of present truth. My address, for the present, is Hartland, Me. March 17. J. B. GOODRICH. Almost ripe was the harvest,
With its wealth of waving grain;
And I looked for the reapers busy,
Scattered up and down the plain.
Oh, I watched till the fields were whitened,
But no one came to glean;
And I saw how the reapers, listless,
Just leaned on their sickles keen, And I called: “O reapers, hasten,
There's a chill breath over the plain;
Ye must gather the harvest quickly,
And bind up the ripened grain!”
But the reapers replied: “We're ready
To join in the harvest home;
And we wait with our sickles sharpened,
Till the Master-reaper come.” Oh, where was the Master-reaper,
That he tarried when fields grew ripe?
And why were the reapers all listless
When their sickles were glancing so bright?
From places made fragrant with blossoms,
All over the fruit-strewn lands,
They were bringing the choicest of treasures
For the Master-reaper's hands. And now, when the Lord of the harvest
Is calling all over his lands,
When the laborers, eager and joyous,
Are hastening with well-filled hands;
I know as they pass before him,
How he looks on his own, and grieves
For the wasted fields—for the many
Who are bringing no garnered sheaves. OHIO
By Dudley Marvin Canright
New Antioch.—Have just closed a ten-days’ meeting at this place. Quite a number were present from Leesburg. We had freedom in preaching, and labored largely for the benefit of the believers, taking up the subjects of health reform, spiritual gifts, missionary work, etc. All turned out well, and gave good attention to the subjects presented. The church has improved very much since we were here last spring, and the Sabbath-school is now about as good as any in the State. Three young women made a good profession, and were baptized. Two united with this church; the other will join at Leesburg. The brethren greatly feel the need of a meeting-house, as they now occupy a school-house. Trustees were elected, a building committee was appointed, and several hundred dollars was subscribed toward a house. We hope it will be finished before next winter. We feel greatly encouraged about the little society here, and expect a good future for them. Bro. Gates assisted me here. The Leesburg church are also planning for a meeting-house. We see no reason why the southern part of Ohio is not as good a field of labor as any part of the State. Litchfield, March 21.—I commenced meetings at Hanging Rock, Feb. 27, and continued three weeks. Sixteen have signed the covenant; others are convinced, for some of whom I have hope. I have sold books to the value of $9.70. Some are very bitter in their opposition to the truth, misrepresenting us and wresting our words. I have been urgently requested by several to lecture at Litchfield. They have offered me the use of a house of worship, and the hotel-keeper offers to keep me and my horse free of charge while I stay. The people have paid all my expenses since I have been with them. I return home for a few days. Brethren, pray for me and the cause of truth here. E. G. GARRETT. REPORT OF THE BATTLE CREEK MATERNAL AND DORCAS ASSOCIATION.
The ninth annual meeting of the Maternal Association of Battle Creek was held in the Tabernacle at this place Sunday evening, March 21, 1880, at which time the following report was read:— On the afternoon of the 8th of March, 1871, twelve mothers, feeling deeply their need of Divine wisdom to aid in the right discharge of their responsible duties, and of the operation of the Holy Spirit upon the hearts of their children, met at the house of our dear departed Bro. and Sr. Gardner, and subscribed their names to the few simple rules that formed the basis of our society. Our number has steadily increased until we have now enrolled upon our book the names of one hundred and sixty-nine mothers, and their five-hundred and fifty-eight children. For the first eight years our weekly meetings, which continued with but little intermission, were entirely devoted to prayer and mental and religious culture, with gratifying results. Circumstances well known to most present necessitated a change in the order of our exercises. A little more than a year ago we felt constrained, as far as it was in our power, to act a mother's part to the many young persons constantly coming among us; not only to pray for their spiritual welfare, but to relieve the temporal necessities of such as were needy. So we proposed to devote one afternoon each month, or more if necessary, to sewing, making and repairing their clothes, the remainder of the meetings to be conducted as heretofore. We little realized the task we had undertaken. Work accumulated upon our hands until we can now find time for only one religious meeting on the first Tuesday of each month. Our usual attendance is from eighteen to twenty. It is interesting to see with what cheerfulness and alacrity these dear sisters work, feeling amply rewarded for all their toil by the grateful thanks of the recipients, and the sweet satisfaction that arises from a sense of doing right, and, although imperfectly, at an infinite distance, following in the footsteps of our Divine Master, who went about doing good. On the sixth of January last, in order to obtain more assistance and to remove some objections, so that young persons and those who were not mothers might feel free to attend our meetings (a fact we think not generally understood), we added the name of Dorcas to our society, so that now it will be known as the Battle Creek Maternal and Dorcas Association. For the past few months our labors have not been confined to our own poor; but, through the kindness of some of our absent members who increased their subscription, one lady giving a liberal donation, others smaller ones, and with the gifts of clothing from the New Year's tree, we have been enabled to render timely and essential aid to several poor, suffering families, even outside of our own community. Their grateful expressions of surprise, and thankfulness are too lengthy for insertion, but might add greatly to the interest of this report. In reviewing the labors of the past year, we feel that humility becomes us on account of the defects in our service. Gratitude should swell our hearts for our Heavenly Father's kindness. Strength and grace have been graciously vouchsafed to us. Death has not been permitted to enter our ranks, or protracted sickness to hinder any of us. We feel grateful, too, for the favor conferred upon us in devoting one evening of this precious, important time to the interests of our Association, and trust it may prove a source of encouragement, “provoking us to love and good works.” We hope it may create a more general interest, and bring efficient workers to our assistance; for truly in this, as in other enterprises, the work is great, and the laborers few. For the future, let us be encouraged to toil on, animated by the thought of the great recompense every faithful worker may hope ere long to receive, when the Great Arbiter, our blessed Saviour, shall appear. Battle Creek, March 16, 1880. |
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| Cash on hand at beginning of the year, |
$5.58 |
| Amount received during the year, |
41.07 |
| Amount expended, |
39.52 |
| Cash on hand, March 9, 1880, |
7.13 |
The Vigilant Committee report 122 garments made and 99 repaired, besides relief extended to the needy in other ways.