Last evening for the first time, I witnessed a meeting of the Salvation Army, held in a theater in Boston. There were about twenty in the company of workers, while the house was well filled. At the hour appointed the twenty marched in the ante-room, with drums, tambourines, and other instruments. All knelt a moment on the floor. Then they began singing and playing on the instruments. Their songs are mostly set to popular music, bar-room tunes, and the like, all of the most lively and noisy kind. Not one solemn nor one devotional tune did they sing. While singing, every possible effort was made to get up noise and an excitement. The singers would clap their hands together, keep time with their feet, sway their bodies to and fro, walk about, etc. Two young girls, perhaps sixteen or eighteen years of age, led the meeting. One read and expounded a few verses of Scripture in a very ignorant way. The most of the company were rough, hard-looking young men, and their speaking was in harmony with their looks. The whole performance was conducted in a boastful, noisy, funny, singing manner. They were often laughing and making remarks to cause others to laugh. “Amen,” “Hallelujah,” “Praise the Lord,” etc., were thickly interspersed in the service; but these were spoken in a jocular, light, and trifling way which was sad to hear. Not a tear was shed, not a particle of emotion was shown by one of them, nor was there any solemnity in the audience. No instruction was given, no information was imparted; the whole theme was, “Come to Jesus, and be saved; hallelujah!”
If this is not a burlesque on religion, then I have no knowledge in divine things. And yet it is gaining rapidly and making converts by the thousands everywhere. The First-day Adventists attend these meetings, take part in them, and in their own meetings speak highly of them. They say that the Salvation Army is preparing the way for the Lord to come! Sr. White’s prediction that false reformations would increase and just before the end, is strikingly fulfilled in this movement. It does not seem possible that any of our people can be deceived by it. As I looked on those two bold, ill-mannered, and irreverent girls leading that performance, I thought of my own daughter, and said in my heart that I had a thousand times rather see her dead than have such a character.
The same day I also attended a holiness meeting or faith-cure meeting, as they called it, held at Cullis’s church. It was a yearly gathering of ministers and believers in the “higher life.” Some came from many States and Canada. There were probably five-hundred present, all bright, intelligent-looking people. Everything was conducted in an orderly manner, and many excellent addresses were made. And yet even here, where we had expected the deepest feeling and solemnity, seeking of God and heart-searching, there was a marked absence of all these. There was a deal of lightness, joking, and laughter all through the meeting. Indeed, nearly every speaker seemed to make an effort to say something funny or witty. Especially was this the case with the ministers. To speak safely, I should say that one in four of those who spoke in the social meeting created more or less laughter. Not a tear was shed by any, minister or people. “I am saved, and have perfect peace,” was the uniform testimony. Perhaps this is all right, but it does not seem to be the experience of the apostles and prophets in the Bible. Paul says, “I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.” Rom. 9:2. He labored with them both publicly and from house to house. Acts 20:19, 20. The same Spirit dwelt in Christ. Heb. 5:7. Ezekiel was shown the last days, and God’s servants commanded to “set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that are done” in the land. Eze. 9:4. And Jesus said, “Blessed are they that mourn.” Matt. 5:4. “Blessed are ye that weep now.” Luke 6:21. “Woe unto you that laugh now.” Verse 25. And so on all through the Bible, as every one knows. Lightness and merriment do not become the Lord’s ambassadors nor the Lord’s house. But this spirit is being seen more and more of late, and is especially prominent in these holiness and revival efforts. The old-fashioned agony of soul for sin and contrition of heart are seldom seen. Bunyan’s “slough of despond” has been filled up. No one falls into it any more. They are converted with a song, saved in a minute, have perfect peace in an hour, and are on the stand as preachers the next night!
I have attended the meetings of Mr. Moody, Mr. Hammond, Mrs. Van Cott, and other prominent revivalists. While Mr. Moody’s are much above any of the others, yet in them all there is a lack of that deep, solemn contrition for sin, that used to be. There is a feeling that it is an easy, short work to “come to Jesus, and be saved.” Much singing, few prayers, and short anecdotes with more or less witty hits and merriment, are largely the means used. No doubt some good is done, and some are soundly converted; but the more I see of it, the more I search the Scriptures, the deeper experience I have in my own heart, the more I am convinced that it is largely a surface work which will not stand the awful test of the Judgment. D. M. CANRIGHT.
MICHIGAN
By F. D. Starr
Maple Grove.—Being hindered unexpectedly from going to the Pacific coast at the time intended, it has been my privilege to labor a little longer in Michigan. I have visited some of the churches and scattered brethren, and also assisted Bro. Leland in a series of meetings at West Haven. Much opposition was manifested there, and the school-house was closed against us before the work was finished; yet three embraced the truth, and these, in company124with a few already keeping the Sabbath there, will maintain Sabbath meetings. I am now helping Bro. Guilford in meetings he is holding near Chesaning. A good interest is being developed, and we hope for favorable results. I expect to go to Oregon before very long. F. D. STARR.
THE SOUTH LANCASTER SCHOOL.
By A. S. Hutchins
WE are thankful that this school, though comparatively in its infancy, is established on a basis so reliable, and is progressing so prosperously. The Conferences of the New England States certainly have reason for gratitude that we have a school of this kind in our midst. Since returning home from the general meeting recently held in South Lancaster, I have wished that all parents and guardians who send there their sons and daughters, or those under their control, could personally become acquainted with the principle on which the school is conducted, and the discipline which the Board and teachers aim to maintain.
Any school laboring to accomplish the object which this has in view, would quickly lose its influence and power for good without order and healthful discipline. To secure these there should be a mutual effort on the part of teachers and students. Here the young are being educated for positions of trust and usefulness in this world, and for happiness and endless bliss in the world to come. Says Solomon, “He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction; but he that refuseth reproof erreth.”
Most of the young who spend a term or more here as students, come to more fully prepare themselves to labor in some branch of the work of God. Hence the importance of studying his word, and of becoming acquainted with its principles and precepts, and of seeking the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit in all things. Says Jesus, “Without me ye can do nothing.” Oh! that we could all realize this solemn truth, and abide in him, and his words abide in us.
About twenty students from Vermont are attending the school this term, five of whom we have just heard were baptized since the general meeting. These things are encouraging, and the prospect which lies before these young men and women of future usefulness gives us hope that they may win some souls to Christ. Says Daniel, “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament: and they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars forever and ever.”
Manifestly, God’s providence has been over the erection of the Academy, boarding-house, and other buildings for the school, and the different trades connected therewith; and those who have upon their hearts and hands the responsible work of carrying forward this enterprise, should have the fervent prayers and hearty co-operation of all who love this work. A. S. HUTCHINS.
NORTHERN ITALY.
By D. T. Bourdeau
TORRE PELLICE AND ST. JOHN.—I have given twelve discourses in these places, besides traveling much on foot, and the interest is unabating. I speak ten times a week, and find Bro. Vuilleumier a valuable helper; and best of all, the Spirit of God is with us.
Yesterday (Sabbath) we had two precious meetings at Sr. Revel’s on a mountain side about two and a half miles distant. At the close several persons promised to obey the truth. Many tears of joy and gratitude were shed, especially by Sr. R., who had so long kept the Sabbath alone. Among those who arose in favor of the truth was a man who had lately been led to keep the Sabbath by one not keeping it, who is now among the obedient. May we not expect that he will accomplish far more now that his life is in accordance with his teachings? Several persons have been killed by the fall of housetops under the ponderous weight of heavy snows during the late snow-storm,—the greatest that has been witnessed here for half a century. D. T. BOURDEAU.
Jan. 25.
MINNESOTA
By E. A. Curtis; J. W. Moore
Goss Mills, Crow Wing Co., Feb. 12.—We have been laboring at this place three weeks. We are now presenting the testing points of the message. Some have already decided to obey God, and a deep interest is manifested throughout the entire community. We hope to see many obey the truth at this place. We earnestly desire the prayers of God's people. E. A. Curtis. J. W. Moore.
ILLINOIS
By W. H. Owen; E. O. Hammond
PITTWOOD, IROQUOIS CO.—Commenced a series of meetings in a school-house five miles from this place Jan. 3. Continued three weeks, and then by invitation moved about two and a half miles east, to a large meeting-house owned by the Methodists, where we still continue our meetings with a good interest. The Pittwood brethren were much encouraged last Sabbath by the presence of eight new Sabbath-keepers, who took part with them in their social meeting. We hope by the blessing of God and patient labor to add still more to their numbers.
W. H. OWEN.
E. O. HAMMOND.
WORK FOR ALL.
Each year and each month and each day as it goes,
Brings duty for all ere it comes to a close;
And they who would nobly their work be pursuing
Not a moment must waste, but be up and be doing.
Whatever your work, then, if you would be wise,
The humblest, the meanest, you will not despise;
Since the Master has given a portion for all,
Then do it for him, be it mighty or small.
To some he sends toiling from morning till night,
But do not shrink from it; be sure it is right,
For the Lord giveth strength if we walk in his ways,
And even a room may be swept to his praise.
How many a soul both unknown and untaught,
In life's earnest battle so bravely has fought;
And beneath a coarse garment in lowly estate,
Beats the heart of a hero—true, noble, and great.
But the Lord taketh knowledge, he knoweth his own,
And soon when the troubles of earth shall have flown,
A bright crown in heaven is waiting each one
Who nobly and truly life's duty hath done.
—Sel.
KANSAS
SURVEY.—My meetings on the Big Medicine still continue, but are nearly broken up by the cold weather; but when the weather was favorable, there was a good turnout. Have partially canvassed the Sabbath question. Some seem interested. There has been no open opposition. Am following up with visiting from house to house. Pray for me, dear brethren, that some in this place may accept the message. N. J. BOWERS.
Feb. 10.
AMONG THE CHURCHES.—Met with the church at Portis Dec. 1, 1884. Found that the enemy had made deep inroads on the church. Remained with them ten days, holding two meetings each day. The preaching was calculated to inspire confidence in the message, and to show the necessity of continued Christian growth and stability of character. A deep heart searching work was commenced, the Spirit of the Lord drew near, and before the meetings closed a number of those who had grown cold and given up the truth, once more united themselves with this people. One began the observance of the Sabbath for the first time. Have since urged the subject of tithing, all present pledging themselves to take up this duty.
From that place I went to Kirwin. The weather was extremely cold, and the church badly scattered, so I held but one meeting. The church for the most part seem of good courage.
After returning home I again came to this field of labor, visiting the Lebanon church. This church has suffered greatly from dissensions and removals. The Lord helped to bear the straight testimony, and some seemed aroused to their condition. Hope to visit them again soon.
Am now on my way to Crescent. From thence I shall go to Bull City, where I expect to meet Eld. Cook Feb. 21, 22. Am of good courage. Brethren, pray for the work in this part of the field.
Feb. 7. CHAS. W. FLAIZ.
Feb. 11
Wisconsin.
AMONG THE CHURCHES.—Since our State meeting I have visited and held quarterly meetings with the churches in my division. Find some with but little interest, and others overcharged with cares. Have tried to awaken a greater interest in the truth. The Lord has blessed in the work, some having decided to walk in the light and to be faithful. Have sold forty-six copies of “Great Controversy,” Vol. IV., also other books, amounting in all to $54.10. Obtained six subscriptions for REVIEW and one for the Instructor. Have held Bible-readings, which were truly profitable.
At Lucas, I met Eld. Breed in the general meeting which was held Feb. 7, 8. This was a time of special interest. Brethren came from different parts of the division, and nearly all were present at the first meeting. The preaching was close and practical, and the Spirit of the Lord accompanied the word, causing an awakening. Many were moved to tears and confessions. On the Sabbath backsliders came forward. Several young persons also made a start in the Christian life. On first-day instruction was given to librarians and workers in the tract society. We trust all were benefited. The duty of paying tithes was also prominent at the meeting. Had a Bible-reading on this subject, and nearly all voted to perform this duty faithfully. The new house of worship was cleared of debt by pledges, a part of which was paid, and the house was dedicated to the Lord. An elder was ordained. Our meeting closed with a sermon on the signs of the times, all feeling to praise the Lord for one of the best general meetings enjoyed in the State. A. MEES.
Feb. 11
LOYAL.—Bro. H. R. Johnson arrived according to appointment and commenced meetings with the church on the evening of Jan. 21, appointing meetings each evening until Sunday, the 1st. While setting before the church the importance of having a living connection with Christ, the Vine, in order to be cleansed from all sin and bear acceptable fruit, the Spirit of the Lord was in good measure on both speaker and hearers, and many were melted to tears of contrition. We are visiting from house to house and becoming acquainted with the spiritual needs of the church. Bro. Johnson became convinced that a longer time was needed here than had been planned. Accordingly he decided to stay another week, speaking each evening and visiting through the day. There seemed to be a rising interest in the church and outside, until the close of the meetings.
Last Sabbath was a good day for the church, on account of the presence of the Lord. Hearts were melted, confessions made, and some whose voices had long been silent in the social meetings responded to the movings of the Spirit, acknowledged their wanderings, seeking anew the Lord, and rejoicing in victories never before attained. All hearts were drawn together, many expressed in earnest words the desire to be fully consecrated to the Lord; while nearly all testified to new beauty in the word of God. One person decided to walk out in the new light received. So we thank God and take courage, believing that the Lord will still nourish the seed sown here, and gather an abundant harvest to his glory. CHAS. A. SMITH.
Feb. 7.
IOWA
DELPHOS.—Since my last report I have had a series of meetings at Clearfield with but little interest. At Sharp, Taylor Co., I spent about two weeks. The labor at this place seemed timely, and I left this little company of good courage in the work. Six took their stand, and encouraged them to live the truth of the third angel’s message, making a company of eighteen who will now meet for Sabbath meetings and Sabbath-school. I am now at Delphos, Ringgold Co., where I shall commence a series of meetings as soon as the weather will permit. R. C. Porter. Feb. 10.
DENMARK, LEE CO.—We closed our tent meetings at this place Oct. 24. Opposition to our work was fierce and determined from the first; but the attendance was good to the last. Sold books to the amount of about $15, and with the help of Eld. Hare obtained nine names for the Signs of the Times, and ten for the Instructor. Ten have embraced the truth, and many others believe we are right and in favor of the doctrine taught, some of whom we expect will yet obey the Lord and be saved.
At the close of these meetings, word was sent to know if we would meet Eld. D. B. Ray, editor of the Baptist Flag, St. Louis, Mo., on the Bible and law questions, and the nature of man. This resulted in a debate, which commenced Nov. 21, and closed Nov. 28. Six sessions were held. The first two were two hours in length, the other four hours each, the speakers occupying a half hour alternately. The discussion was held in the church, and was well attended.
Eld. Ray is a man of more than ordinary ability, and a man of much experience in public life; but his arguments against the truth were not new to me. They were nearly the same as those usually brought against us on such occasions. He would not confine himself to the two questions that the people wanted to hear; viz., the Sabbath and the nature of man, but offered two propositions, as follows: “Resolved, That the Baptist church125with which D. B. Ray stands identified, are churches of Christ.” This question he of course would affirm, and wished me to deny, which I would not do. The next question was, “Resolved, That the Seventh-day Adventist churches, with which C. A. Washburn stands identified, are churches of Jesus Christ.” This question I affirmed and he denied. He gave me liberty to present before the people the points of our faith that to him seemed most objectionable, which opportunity he did not fail to improve.
By accepting the above proposition, I could obtain a division of time with him; otherwise he had announced to give a series of sermons against Adventism.
Those who had embraced the truth were confirmed in the investigation, and four or five signed the covenant after the close of the debate. The truth gained many friends, who now advocate the cause of present truth, take the Signs, and help us by donations. Eld. R. left the last argument on the final overthrow of sin and the destruction of the wicked, almost entirely unanswered; cheers from the audience at the last session and at other times showed that the people appreciated the argument in favor of Bible truth.
After the discussion we have attended the church quarterly meeting in Mt. Pleasant, and one week after the quarterly meeting of Dist. No. 4, held at the same place. During these meetings five united with this church, one of whom is subject to baptism. This church seems to be prospering. Members are being added, and spirituality is on the increase. A neat and commodious house of worship has been erected during the past season, with a seating capacity for nearly three hundred. J. S. Washburn has assisted in all the above meetings. C. A. WASHBURN.
DEC. 12 AND 13.—Since the State meeting I visited the churches in the above districts. Was at Algona Dec. 26-29. The brethren seem to be working in harmony. They have a comfortable house of worship. The sisters have canvassed the place for “Sunshine” and the Signs.
Was at Ruthven Jan. 3, 4. Meetings here are three miles in the country. The weather was stormy, so that we only held two. The ordinances were celebrated, and the business of the quarter attended to. This church takes the lead in these parts in tithing. They are all Scandinavians here, and none are wealthy, yet they paid into the church treasury over $350 during the past year.
Was at Sheldon Jan. 7-11. Removals have made this church small, though they still hold regular meetings. A few came to our meetings who were not of our faith. The brethren there are anxious to have the truth presented in the country by Sheldon, where there seems to be an interest.
From the 12th to the 19th I was at Trimello. The meetings were held in a country school-house each evening, with a good outside interest considering the cold and stormy weather. The church are in harmony, and are doing some missionary work. There are young men in this church who could be used as canvassers and workers in the cause, one of whom has decided to give himself to the work as soon as he can arrange home matters. The effort bestowed here in favorable weather would doubtless result in some good.
On Jan. 20, 21 I was at Spencer. But few remain in this church. Regular meetings are held at Rasmussen’s, ten miles from Spencer. Held meetings, celebrated the ordinances, and organized a tract society of seven members. After remarks on tithing, all pledged to give the Lord his own. The Lord came near by his Spirit, and the brethren seemed much encouraged.
On Jan. 22-26 I spent at Milford. Meetings here are held eight miles in the country. Found some good brethren here who love the truth. They have been laboring under trial for some time, which has brought discouragement upon some. Efforts were made to right existing wrongs, and it is hoped that confidence and union may soon be restored. One person was received into the church.
On Jan. 28 to Feb. 5 I was with the church at Forest City. Held nine meetings, celebrated the ordinances, and held a business meeting of the church. It was found necessary in a few cases to administer church discipline, in order to correct, if possible, existing evils. The various phases of the work as they were considered, met quite a hearty response from the brethren present. Some who had not previously fully understood the tithing system promised henceforth not to rob God; and others expect to give not only a tithe, but in the near future themselves also.
Came to Nora Springs Feb. 5. Have held five public meetings. On account of two other meetings in progress, and cold weather, and also a lack of interest, the attendance has been small. There are only five keeping the Sabbath here, but they have regular meetings and a Sabbath-school. Through the efforts of one sister, especially, the children of Baptists, German-Methodists, Christians, Spiritualists, non-professors, and even Catholics, have been induced to come to the Sabbath-school, until the present membership is forty, ranging from five to sixteen years of age. They are taught the lessons in the Instructor and question books, and seem really interested in studying the Bible. Contributions from the children pay for twenty copies of the Instructor.
Have sold on this trip over $40 worth of books. Nearly every English-speaking family in these churches has the REVIEW and Vol. IV. of “Great Controversy.” I hope to see the brethren in this part of the State taking hold in all parts of the work, and thus show their love for the truth. To-day my wife and I go to Algona, which is our permanent address. Our health is good, and we enjoy a measure of God’s blessing, for which we feel grateful. IRA J. HANKINS.
ARKANSAS
By James W. Scoles
ROBINSON, BENTON CO., FEB. 10.—Began meetings Jan. 28, in a school-house five miles west of this place. This is a rough, mountainous country, and on this account it was thought best to hold meetings in the daytime instead of at night. Notwithstanding the fact that the weather has been very severe for this section of country, the interest has steadily increased until the present attendance averages from forty to seventy-five each day. At the close of the services last Sunday, nineteen persons evidenced by a rising vote their belief in the seventh-day Sabbath. Of these, thirteen have since signed the covenant, and others have promised to obey. My wife is with me, assisting in singing, visiting, etc. We are of good courage in the work, and ask to be remembered in your prayers. JAMES W. SCOLES.
VERMONT
By H. W. Pierce
SHELDON AND GEORGIA.—Since my last report I have been holding meetings in these towns. The interest was small in both places. Only one fully accepted the truth. Some others promised that they would investigate these things. Also went with Bro. Burrill to South Hero, and spoke to the little company there. After closing the meetings at Georgia, I attended the general meeting at South Lancaster; also the opening of the school. Was very much pleased with what I saw and learned of its workings. My wife and two children are now in attendance. On my return to Bordoville I found a good work in progress there under the labors of Elds. A. S. Hutchins, R. F. Barton, and M. E. Kellogg. The church has been much revived. Some that were wholly backslidden took their stand again. A number who never had made a profession took a good stand. Testimonies well wet down with tears showed that the Spirit of God was at work upon their hearts. At the present writing I am at East Richford, where a good work has begun in the church.
Feb. 10. H. W. PIERCE.
NEW ENGLAND.
NEW IPSWICH, N. H., AND DANVERS, MASS.—We have reason for encouragement in this Conference. We had an excellent meeting at New Ipswich. Eld. Goodrich has so much interest at Amherst that he cannot leave to help me. Bro. Israel has so much interest at Worcester that he cannot get away as we expected. Some new ones are taking hold in Boston. At Danvers I find the church in much better condition than I feared. House full Sabbath and Sunday. Have begun a short course of sermons on our faith. We hope for good. But I need more help. We are all anxious for Bro. Farnsworth to come. D. M. CANRIGHT.
WORCESTER.—Last Sabbath was a good day for the little company in this place. Eld. Robinson was with us, and preached from words found in 2 Peter 1: 12, which was a source of comfort, consolation, and edification to those present. Sunday afternoon he preached on the Sabbath question, taking as his text Isa. 62: 10. Although quite a stormy day, the mission rooms were well filled. The closest attention was paid to the word spoken. At the close of the discourse, several not of our faith confessed we had the Bible on our side in support of the Sabbath. There is still an interest to hear, and we hope that ultimately there will be others added such as will be an honor to the cause of Christ. The general attendance on the Sabbath ranges from thirty to thirty-five, fourteen of which have commenced to keep God’s commandments since our camp-meeting. The camp-meetings held here the past two years, and the labor performed heretofore by others, have left a most excellent impression upon the public mind. May God lead on the good work. M. WOOD.
Feb. 3.
Badus, Madison, and Millbank
By A. D. Olsen
Dakota.
Badus, Madison, and Millbank.
I spent Sabbath and Sunday, Jan. 24, 25, with the church at Badus, where we had some excellent meetings, and completed the organization of the church. An elder was ordained, two were added to the church, and the ordinances were celebrated for the first time. We believe that if this church continues to walk in the light, others will be added to their number such as shall be saved. We spent one day with the church at Madison. Three united with the church, and there seemed to be a desire to get near the Lord.
We had some very interesting meetings with the company at Millbank, and there seemed to be some outside interest to hear the truth. The brethren are determined to awake to the times and take hold in the cause. We can do more by a godly life to influence others to accept the truth than we can in any other way, if our daily life is not in harmony with our profession. I have just spent a few days at Vilas, laboring with Bro. Ells. There has seemed to be some interest to hear, and several have said that we have presented the truth. One or two have decided to obey, and we hope others may see their duty and receive strength to walk in the light. A. D. Olsen.
INDIANA
By J. S. Shrock
LIGONIER AND WOLF LAKE.—Jan. 15-20 I labored with the church at Ligonier. The attendance was not large on account of the extreme cold, but we had very good meetings. One united with us, an estimable lady, the faithful companion of an aged Disciple minister. How thankful ought we to be for a truth that appeals to all that are honest in heart! On the Sabbath we celebrated the ordinances. The Lord remembered us in a special manner.
Jan. 24, 25, I visited the church at Wolf Lake. I found this church in a good condition. They seem to have gained much courage and strength from the debate that was recently held in that place. The real good that resulted from the discussion was not only in points gained, but in observing what the enemy will resort to in order to126fight the truth. Are not Isaiah’s words applicable here? (Isa. 51: 7, 8, and context.)
Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, I labored again with the church at Ligonier. This closed my labor in Indiana for the present. It was a hard matter to speak the parting words. This has been my only home since I united with the Adventist people; and as the Lord has greatly blessed me as well as the church during my stay among the people of this State, I am very sorry to leave them. But thus it is; here we meet and become acquainted, separate and in a measure forget; but soon the morning will dawn where we shall meet to part no more. Lord, hasten the glad day!
I am now at Battle Creek where I brought my wife to be treated at the Sanitarium. A few years have wrought a wonderful change in this institution. About eight years ago I had the privilege of being treated here, and then thought it was quite a place; but what a contrast! Then it was in its infancy; now it towers like a mighty colossus above all other institutions of its kind, and enjoys the well-deserved honor of being the largest health retreat in the world. Surely the Lord has wrought wonders for the Sanitarium.
It may not be out of place to add a few words in regard to the school, as I had the privilege of sharing its advantages in former years. When we contemplate the dangers and evil influences to which the rising generation is exposed, and realize that many of the schools in our land are mere places of resort for the ungodly, it is indeed like finding an oasis in the desert to find a place with such holy influences upon the young. In many respects this school has no rival. For economy and real moral worth, it is truly a model. It is easy to see that the managers spare no pains to make this an ideal place of imparting knowledge. Among the many attractive features connected with the College, might be mentioned the new boarding-house. Perhaps the most striking feature of this building is the novel arrangement for heating and ventilating. A warm current of air passes all through the building, not through pipes, but through the halls, visiting every room, driving out the foul air, and bringing new life and vigor to the inmates. Were it not for the sighs and groans of blustery Winter without, one might well fancy himself enjoying the balmy air of a spring morning, and wonder to himself why the warbling of the birds was not heard. The first floor of this building is used exclusively as a boarding hall. Here the students are favored with exceptionally good board, not the inferior eatables that so often characterize club board, but on the contrary, the best the market affords; and everything is well prepared for the table. The second and third floors are designed for lady students.
Here those of tender years are under the vigilant care of God-fearing mothers. Would that more of our youth and children enjoyed these golden privileges! Surely the Lord is blessing our institutions located at this place in many ways. Let us praise his exalted name.
I am now on my way to my new field of labor in Eastern Pennsylvania. Will the friends of the cause remember the work among the Germans.
J. S. SHROCK.
Among the Churches in Tennessee
By S. Fulton
Tennessee.
Among the Churches.—I have been devoting my time for the past few weeks to visiting the churches and isolated Sabbath-keepers in the Conference. The spirit of willingness that has been manifested to correct past errors, and attain to greater devotion in the cause of God, has been commendable. And while we believe this is well-pleasing in the sight of God, yet he will not look upon us with favor simply because we desire to be right, but according to the motive that prompts us to action. The talents given to each should be improved by rendering actual service in the cause of God. It is very apparent that those of our brethren in Tennessee who have become negligent in their duty in the past, have gradually lost their love for the truth; and unless there is a decided change in their course of action they will certainly be lost. We fear the same cause which has resulted in the overthrow of some will prove the ruin of others. Those who have ceased to walk in the narrow path, and have given up the truth, commenced first by slighting the testimonies; they next neglected secret and family devotion; then they robbed the Lord of his tithes; and lastly they broke the Sabbath. Brethren, let us gather up the precious rays of light God has given us, and honor him by putting them into practice.
We had interesting meetings at Springville, Leach, Cross Plains, and Nashville. At Cross Plains the interest increased until the close of our meetings. Bro. Rogers, who has since been canvassing and holding Bible-readings in that vicinity, reports that one family have decided to keep the Sabbath, while others are interested. At our missionary meeting three joined the society. At Nashville there was some interest among those not of our faith. Bro. Sisley was with us Sabbath and Sunday. We held our meeting at a private house. We hope the time is not far distant when something can be done for the people in this large city. Bro. Wales was with me at Leach. The weather being unfavorable, our meeting was not largely attended. At our business meetings the different branches of the work were considered.
We were much pleased to see the interest manifested in the Sabbath-school work. There are now four canvassers in the field, and the prospects are that a good work will be accomplished. Already calls are being made for laborers to follow up the interest created by reading the Signs.
The brethren at Springville are busily engaged in making tents. They will make seven or eight small ones for camp-meeting purposes, and one 30x40 to be used in the tent work. We expect to run two tents the coming season. We feel that we have reason to thank God and take courage. S. Fulton.
Humility and Submission Lead to Wisdom and Peace
—The more humble a man is in himself, and the more subject unto God, the more wise and peaceful shall he be in all things.
PENNSYLVANIA CONFERENCE.
By F. Peabody
AMONG THE CHURCHES.—Jan. 1 our church at West Valley met at the house of Bro. J. Hollands, and organized a vigilant missionary society. The children and brethren donated $12 for the European mission.
Jan. 3, 4, I was with the Otto church in their quarterly meeting. The Spirit of the Lord was present to bless and encourage. The brethren felt determined to be more diligent in the year to come than ever before.
Jan. 10, 11, met with the church at Corydon, Warren Co., Pa. The weather was unfavorable, yet nearly all the brethren were present. Held three meetings in the new public hall. There appeared to be some outside interest. We hope none will allow the enemy to overcome them and thereby ruin themselves, bring reproach upon the cause of God, and grieve the hearts of the faithful ones of the church. The Lord was with us in this meeting.
Jan. 17, 18, was with the church at North Warren. This was at the time of a severe storm, and some could not get to our meetings. But I called on nearly all. Found them of good courage. We believe good was done. How sweet it is to be able to deny self and submit to the will of the Lord! Some of the church are faithful in paying tithes and making offerings. The blessing of the Lord rests upon such. Should not others do likewise?
Jan. 24, 25 was with the church at Youngsville. Was glad to find the brethren here of such good courage. We hope all will from this time see more clearly the wants of the cause. May they see that some must sacrifice for this cause; and why not all?
Jan. 31, Feb. 1, was with the company at Blockville, Chaut. Co., N. Y. The brethren here are holding on to the truth. They are faithful in keeping up Sabbath-school and weekly prayer meeting. May the Lord help all to see that he requires nothing unjust in asking one-tenth of what he gives us as well as one-seventh of the time. Can we expect God’s blessing upon us and ours if we fail to do what he requires? We believe the dear brethren at Blockville will see their duty more clearly and will yet see souls added to their numbers.
Feb. 7, 8, was with the church at Bear Lake. Although the church felt the loss of Bro. Chadwick who was, with his family, called to Wellsville to take charge of the work in the depository, yet they are not discouraged. Through their efforts one family have lately come into the truth. May the Lord bless and encourage the hearts of the dear brethren here.
Feb. 9 I came to Waterford, Erie Co., to meet and labor with Bro. Hayward for a time in this new field. There are now somewhere between forty and fifty Sabbath-keepers in this county, nearly all having been brought into the truth in the past year. The next day after coming here I went to Mill Village, where a company had been brought out last summer. We had a meeting Wednesday evening and organized a tract and missionary society of seven members. More will join soon. I feel to thank God for his care and blessing that have been with me since I left home. Have sold some books and taken a few orders for periodicals. While with the North Warren church, I spoke twice in the M. E. church at Russellbourg. The minister and his wife were present at the first meeting and she at the second. The next morning he bought “Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation.” We hope the labor has not been in vain.