Amot, Sweden by John Gottlieb Matteson

Seventh-day Adventist Missionary Society · Oakland, Cal. · Apr 6, 1882

Amot, Sweden.

By John Gottlieb Matteson

We have continued the meetings here with good interest. Although the people are plain, and most of the men come to meeting with their black leather aprons on, yet they possess hearts ready to receive the truth; and willing hearts, with less intelligence and learning, are quicker to comprehend the word of the kingdom of God, than those that have more learning and less interest in heavenly things.

Last Sabbath a church was organized of nine members. Bro. Anderson was unanimously chosen and ordained elder. We were solemnly impressed on this occasion by the presence of the Spirit of God, and all felt thankful for his blessing. Monday evening we celebrated the ordinances, while sweet harmony and love united our hearts. The brethren, though comparatively poor, are willing to lay aside a tenth for the Lord, to help forward the mission.

The roads were very muddy, but recently we have had severe cold weather and snow. We had two meetings Sunday, the house being crowded with people. Many hearts were moved, and in the afternoon several expressed their desire and determination to serve the Lord. This was done with many tears, and prayers were offered and testimonies given.

Wednesday morning Bro. Rosqvist left for Grythyttehed. He had to appear in court Thursday morning, being again charged for transgressing the order of the church council. This time the penalty will no doubt be more severe than before. A proposition to change this law was presented before the legislature, and Bro. R. had hoped that it would pass, but before he left this place, intelligence was received that it had been voted against by the majority.

I still hold meetings. To-night will be the last this time. Then I go to Grythyttehed, the Lord willing. To-day two brethren united with the church by baptism. It was cold weather, but the Lord cheered and warmed our hearts by his truth and the blessed hope. Two more keep the Sabbath and meet with the brethren, which makes thirteen Sabbath-keepers. Pray for the blessing of God on his own work in old Sweden.

March 2. J. G. MATTESON.