The Quebec Conference by G. B. Thompson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 9, 1914

The Quebec Conference

By G. B. Thompson

The thirty-fifth annual session of the Quebec Conference was held at South Stukely, June 16-22, 1914. A large tent was pitched in which to hold the daily services. Unfavorable weather, however, made it necessary to hold some of the services in the church, which was near the tent. Those who attended the meeting from a distance were lodged in the homes of those living near.

The attendance was not large, but was marked with a most earnest spirit, and the utmost unity was seen in all the deliberations of the conference.

Brother A. V. Olson was elected president of the conference. He enters upon his work with courage, and with the support of all the believers in the conference. Miss Eva Rickard was elected secretary and treasurer.

The Lord greatly blessed on the Sabbath, and all who were present took a forward step in consecration. A spirit of liberality was manifested in making offerings for the advancement of the work. There were a number present at this meeting who have been long in the message, and who have made many sacrifices in its interests. Their courage and faith cheered our hearts.

Special difficulties have to be overcome in carrying forward the work in this field. One is a foreign language, which is spoken by the larger part of the people. But beyond this is that of the blighting influence of Catholicism. Where the Roman religion has sway, illiteracy, superstition, prejudice, and a spirit of force and persecution especially, predominate. But God has true hearts among this people,—hearts longing for light and hope and comfort, and a salvation that is not purchased by money or works, but obtained without price by all who will take by faith the gift of eternal life offered freely through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The labors put forth during the past year, though carried forward under special difficulties in some instances, have been blessed in bringing souls to the truth. Three new churches were admitted to the conference at this meeting,—two French churches, with a membership of fourteen and nine respectively, and an English church of sixteen members. This was a source of encouragement to all. We believe that the evangelistic efforts to be put forth during the coming year will result in gathering in a number of faithful souls who will rejoice in the blessed hope of the Saviour’s soon coming. The seed sown in both the French and the English language will surely bear fruit. If help can be furnished to this struggling field for a while longer, it will serve to greatly strengthen the work. Brethren, do not forget to pray for the work in Quebec.

G. B. Thompson.