Arkansas. Colored Camp Meeting by Methuselah Jones

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 23, 1915

Arkansas. Colored Camp Meeting

By Methuselah Jones

The Arkansas colored camp meeting was held in the city of Pine Bluff, from July 22 to August 1. We had an excellent representation of our own people during the day, while at night the attendance at the services was all that any one could wish. Our large pavilion was crowded to overflowing, and many had to seat themselves on the green grass and on the floor of the rostrum.

The president of our conference, Elder W. E. Baxter, and Brethren C. J. Dart and H. Wilcox, came each by turn to our assistance, while Elder M. G. Nunes, formerly of the West Indies, but who now labors in the North Texas Conference, joined with the writer and gave invaluable help during the entire time. There was a marked readiness on the part of the people to yield to the Spirit's pleadings, for which we cannot cease to praise God. Confessions and reconsecrations were made to the Lord, and all manifested a greater desire to attain a higher standard of righteousness. At the close of these services the ordinance of baptism was administered to eight candidates, the majority of whom joined the church at Pine Bluff. One was added without baptism, and nine others signified their intention of soon joining the ranks of those who keep the commandments of God.

In making offerings, however, there is much room for improvement. Many fail to realize that it is a duty as well as a blessing to give to the cause of God. While the rich and wealthy can more easily give of their substance, the poor are by no means excused, as can easily be seen from the lesson of the poor widow, who gave the two mites, as recorded in Mark 12:42. It is true the present financial condition of affairs among the poorer classes is quite a problem, yet even this should not be made an excuse for failure to demonstrate to the dear Saviour a keen appreciation of his love. Only a small collection was taken in cash and pledges, but we hope there will be a reform in this particular, if the instructions received on this point are pondered and lived out.

While this camp meeting has been in advance of all others held in Arkansas among the colored people, the goal is not yet reached; but we hope that the day has already dawned when God's people will attempt great things for him, and expect great things from him.

METHUSELAH JONES.