Oakland Church—Quarterly Meeting.
THE late quarterly meeting in Oakland was one of unusual interest. Sister White, who had been visiting in Sonoma, Napa, Solano, Yolo, and Colusa Counties, arrived here on Friday, Jan. 6, and spoke Sabbath forenoon, on 1 Peter 2:9. As it was about a year and a half since she had spoken in Oakland, the church was much pleased with the privilege which her presence afforded. The sermon was "meat in due season;" it was truly a means of strength and encouragement to all. In the afternoon at the calling of the roll, eighty-six members were present; nineteen were absent by reason of sickness or other unavoidable causes; twelve letters were received; and forty-eight were absent with no cause given. This is the best showing which has ever been made at a quarterly meeting of this church; not, however, such as is desired. Some of the absentees are non-residents, from whom letters should have been received. Some absented themselves without a reason, or without cause. We have been making efforts, for some time, to remedy this state of things and have hope of complete success. The members of our churches have not realized the responsibilities of church membership. No church can prosper, spiritually, in neglect of the ordinances of the Lord's house. "This do," and "ye ought," are expressions which do not admit of willful neglect. A resolution was offered and adopted, at this meeting, to the effect that any member who absents himself without cause when the ordinances are celebrated, thereby subjects himself to discipline. We are pleased to find this church coming up to a position where disorderly walk will not be countenanced. There is, however, no disposition to unduly press these matters, but to impress a just sense of responsibility on all. Sunday evening Sister White spoke again, on Matt. 7:24-27—building on the rock. The house was filled with attentive listeners, and the speaker enjoyed excellent freedom. The District T. & M. quarterly meeting was appointed for the evening after the Sabbath. But as the day was so well occupied, this meeting was postponed until Tuesday evening. It will be reported hereafter.