Santa Catharina-Parana Conference by J. W. WESTPHAL

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 16, 1908

Santa Catharina-Parana Conference

By J. W. WESTPHAL

J. W. WESTPHAL

ON April 14, in company with Elder F. W. Spies, the writer left Santa Maria, where the Rio Grande do Sul conference was held. We reached Bursque, the place of our next conference, May 1, just in time for its opening. The trip included a delay of ten days at Rio Grande, waiting for a steamer, and another two days at Florianopolis. This time was spent in writing and study.

The Santa Catharina-Parana conference was well attended, about one hundred and fifty being present. Several came from the state of Parana, and others had come a distance of from one to seven days, by mule or on foot. As many felt obliged to return soon, the meeting continued only four days. It was one of rich blessings. Harmony and love prevailed throughout. With the exception of Brother A. B. Stauffer, who was elected Sabbath-school secretary, the former officers were re-elected. Elder W. Ehlers has the confidence of the brethren, and his labors as president have been appreciated.

Since its organization two years ago, the Lord has greatly blessed this conference. Besides Elder Ehlers, there were but two young workers, yet more than one hundred persons have been baptized. The tithe has also increased, reaching the sum of $2,532 last year, and after settling with the laborers for 1907, there remained a surplus of $2,370 for the two years, which was all turned over to the South American Union Conference. Donations during the year had also been liberal. Fifty dollars was raised for a new press.

There are many calls for labor, especially among the Brazilians in the state of Parana, and some are now awaiting baptism. The brethren are anxiously looking forward to the arrival of Elder John Gaede, who will labor in Santa Catharina, probably locating in Florianopolis, the capital. Brother Frank Belz will unite with him in labor. Elder Ehlers will move to the state of Parana, spending most of his time there. Brother J. Lindermann will be united with him. Brethren Gustav Richter and Theodore Neumann were given colporteur's license. The latter has done a good work in starting and helping to develop the Union da Victoria church, and for some months will assist Brother Lindermann in developing interests near the above-mentioned place.

Buenos Aires, Argentina.