West Michigan Camp-Meeting by K. C. RUSSELL

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 13, 1910

West Michigan Camp-Meeting

By K. C. RUSSELL

THIS meeting was held in Battle Creek, Mich., August 21-28, in a field about four squares northwest of the Battle Creek Sanitarium. The old Michigan pavilion, with a seating capacity of about three thousand, was filled each evening, and on Sabbaths and Sundays. The congregations were composed of the resident members of the Battle Creek church, and a general attendance of our people throughout the West Michigan Conference, besides other citizens of Battle Creek. Excellent order prevailed at all the services, notwithstanding the large attendance, and respectful attention

was given to the addresses and sermons.

The speaking was done principally by Elder A. G. Daniells, Prof. J. G. Lamson, and the writer. Our purpose was to present the truths of the third angel's message in clear, distinct lines, and in the light of the simple and increasing evidences which unmistakably emphasize the certainty of the fulfilment of prophecy. The addresses given by Elder Daniells regarding the advancement of the gospel in other lands evidently made a deep impression, especially upon those who have not been so closely in touch of late with the marvelous growth of this work in recent years. It was very easy to see that Jesus, the great Head of the church, is causing seemingly adverse influences to aid in speeding on to ultimate victory this glorious work; for we have entered nearly twice as many countries outside of the United States, in our missionary enterprises, as has any other mission board. This is a most convincing answer to the objection raised against Seventh-day Adventists,—that our work is simply proselyting, or obtaining members from other religious denominations. The fact that a denomination having no larger constituency than has Seventh-day Adventists, can prosecute such vast missionary enterprises, is evidence that the work is wrought by the power of God. It was also shown that the facilities at our disposal in the way of literature, training-schools, colleges, sanitariums, and publishing houses, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, will be effective agencies in cutting short this great work in righteousness. Let no one think that because a few have become disaffected, and are separating from this work, its progress will in any way be retarded. When the great nations of the earth desire to obtain a signal victory over other nations, they increase their armies; but not so with the Lord, for when he desires to obtain a signal victory, he oftentimes thins out his forces.

The call of God to enter the cities was shown to be an indication that the work is speedily to close.

The first Sunday afternoon of the meeting was devoted to the holding of a lively and interesting temperance rally, at which the president of the Michigan Woman’s Christian Temperance Union and a leading attorney spoke, besides Elder Daniells and Professor Lamson.

Sabbath forenoon, August 27, there was present the largest congregation that assembled at any time during the meeting. A revival service was held, and the Lord greatly blessed those present. Hundreds responded to a definite call to put away sin, and make a full surrender to the Lord, and consecrate their lives to his service.

The business of the conference was conducted with despatch, and a spirit of harmony and Christian courtesy was seen in all its work. Elder S. E. Wight was re-elected president.

We believe this meeting will prove a spiritual uplift to all our people who were in attendance, and that brighter days are in store for the work in the West Michigan Conference. Before this time, Elder E. W. Farnsworth has doubtless assumed his duties as pastor of the Battle Creek church. We trust that the Lord will greatly bless him in this important charge. K. C. RUSSELL.