THE work in this field has not progressed as rapidly as it might, because of the existence of several obstacles peculiar to fields of this kind where things religious do not appeal to the people as does the gain of gold.
The natives are quite indifferent, and pay little or no attention to their own religion, aside from placing lighted candles, crucifixes, etc., around their dead after the breath leaves the body. Foreigners are interested principally in their “jobs,” and any appeal which would seem to endanger these is sneered at if not ridiculed.
The Missionary Volunteer Society of the Mount Hope church has been doing commendable work. The society is divided into bands, and these hold meetings in various parts of the neighborhood, some going in boats across the sound to small villages peopled with Spanish-, French-, and a few English-speaking people. A lively interest is being aroused among the Spanish people. They are eager to hear our message. It was my privilege to attend a Spanish Bible reading conducted by two of our native brethren. It was a pleasure to note the interest manifested by those present, in finding and reading the Scriptures and in listening to the exposition. At the conclusion, a Spanish lady asked her friend what she thought of the things she heard. She said she liked our teachings and desired to know more. The brethren will follow up the interest, and we hope that by the Lord’s help the pathway of many of these unfortunate people will be lightened with the third angel’s message.
There are many French who are also bound down by the errors of the Roman Catholic Church. We expect to place a worker among them soon, hoping also to be able to help them. We are thankful to find among our native brethren those who have a splendid command of the Spanish language, and who can hold Bible readings.
Medical missionary work is meeting with gratifying success, financially and otherwise. Through its influence we are able to reach many of the influential men of the republic. Recently I had the privilege of an introduction to, and a short interview with, the governor of the province in which I live. He manifested great friendliness, and promised to render any aid he could when called upon to do so. I have also had a call from a prominent attorney. He has decided to take a course of treatments in our treatment rooms.
Our conference convenes in Bocas del Toro in May. We are planning for a profitable season, and hope to make this the best in the history of our conference.
MOUNT HOPE BAND OF MISSIONARY VOLUNTEERS, CANAL ZONE
We are glad to welcome Brother Kneeland to this field to connect with the work here, and we feel that because of his past experiences in the West Indies his services will be very valuable. Plans have already been laid for him to conduct a series of lectures in Culebra, one of the sections which will soon be abandoned.
The future of the work here looks encouraging, for which we are glad and take courage. We ask you to remember us in your prayers, that when harvest comes, we, too, may come with rejoicing, bringing with us precious sheaves from this field.
