Meeting in Orange, Mich.
By Uriah Smith
The new tent purchased by Bro. White for the purpose of holding a series of tent meetings at different points in this State, was pitched for the first time, June 18, 1869, on a pleasant grassy plat in the edge of a beautiful grove near Bro. Howe’s, in Orange. The tent is of extra heavy ducking, and was received in excellent order, and, on its pleasant location, makes a fine appearance. Bro. and Sr. White, Bro. Andrews, and Bro. Littlejohn, are here. The meeting has commenced with some tokens of good. The great themes of present truth ever afford matter for solemn admonition and instruction. The brethren and sisters present seem to be firmly established in the truth, but have to regret a backwardness and lack of energy in the work. But all feel that it is time we all awake from this state of stupor, and discharge the high responsibilities rolled upon us by the knowledge of the truth. There are not so many brethren present from churches within one or two days’ drive as could have been wished. All seem to be expecting the tent to come to them, and so make no exertion to go any great distance to other places. This is a mistake. The tent can only visit a few points (not half the points to which it has been invited), before the tent season shall close. This plan of holding two days’ tent meetings in different places from week to week, is an experiment; and unless the brethren turn out promptly, it will be abandoned. Wherever there is an appointment, there rally, all who can by any reasonable means reach the place. The object of these meetings is to arouse the people of God to a sense of the perilous times that are upon us, and the greater dangers and perils before us, and to bring out those to take a stand who are somewhat interested in these things. And if the same persons should attend several of these meetings during the season, it would do them no hurt. The meeting has now continued over Sabbath. The servants of the Lord have freedom in presenting the solemn truths of this time; and if those present seek a fresh baptism into the spirit of the work, the meeting will not prove a failure, but be a lasting blessing. There is a great work to be done for this people; and we have a great work to do for ourselves, and the sooner we take hold in the strength of the Lord to do this work, the better will be our prospects for everlasting life.