Illinois by P. G. Stanley; J. B. Locken

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Dec 5, 1907

Illinois

By P. G. Stanley; J. B. Locken

BLOOMINGTON.— A few years ago we had a strong church in this city, but death, apostasy, and removals have greatly reduced their numbers until only a very few are left to hold the fort. These were discouraged, and on the point of giving up their place of meeting because only four or five attended. We encouraged them to hold on, and promised to meet with them a few Sabbaths and help them. These meetings have been highly appreciated, and have been a source of strength and encouragement to the church. New life and interest have been awakened, backsliders have returned, and those who were cold and indifferent have taken on new life; some new ones are interested, and thus the attendance has been increased. A good strong effort put forth in this city would greatly encourage the church, and doubtless would bring out several new ones, giving us again a good strong church here. P. G. STANLEY.

ST. JOHN.— It was my privilege to spend a few days at Du Quoin, helping Dr. Dalbey with the interest at St. John, a small village adjoining Du Quoin. I spent ten days with him before camp-meeting, at which time nineteen signed the covenant; a few more have signed since, so in all there are twenty-three. Three of these attended our camp-meeting and were baptized, and during this last visit I baptized fifteen, five of whom were colored persons. There are yet others who are keeping the Sabbath, and who will be ready for baptism a little later. It was very encouraging to see how readily these dear souls responded to the requirements of God’s Word. Those who wore jewelry hastened to lay it aside, and gladly gave up all for Jesus.

Some of these new converts are enduring a great deal for the sake of the message. One sister who has been keeping the Sabbath for a short time, is passing through a severe trial. Her husband threatened to leave her if she accepted the truth, and he kept good his threat; she is left with two children to care for, but still she is faithful, and the last evening I spoke there, she was moved by the Spirit of God to decide to be baptized when opportunity offered. Heaven only knows what trials such souls go through for the love of the precious message they have found.

Dr. Dalbey is starting another series of meetings about three miles from Du Quoin, and we trust the Lord will enable him to raise up another little flock there. He has walked four hundred miles between his home and the place of meeting at St. John to give the message to that village. The promise is, ‘He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.’ J. B. LOCKEN.