Jamaica by W. G. Kneeland

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 17, 1908

Jamaica

By W. G. Kneeland

SPANISH TOWN.—On account of sickness in my family, I spent a short time with them in the United States. As soon as their recovery was assured, I left them at Charlotte, Mich., and returned to Jamaica, September 1. I was glad to see that the Kingston church was nearly completed. Elder D. E. Wellman and his associates have done excellent work in remodeling and perfecting the building that was hastily constructed after the earthquake. There is still a heavy debt on the church, which it will take many years of great self-denial on the part of our unfortunate people to pay. We hope some of our more fortunate brethren who are enjoying comfortable houses of worship, will remember this field with a thank-offering for preservation thus far from the disasters that have overtaken us in this island.

There are at present thirty-three churches and companies struggling to complete their humble places of worship. Some of these have been doing all they could for the last six years, and it will require several years more to finish, under present conditions.

I have just returned from a twenty-days’ trip in the country districts. The Lord has wonderfully blessed in presenting the truths needed to properly prepare our people for service in the Master’s vineyard. On several occasions almost the entire congregation came forward, confessing their sins, and asking for special prayers. Nineteen adults were baptized at one place as a result of the revival services. At another church, in spite of the almost constant rain and unfinished building, we conducted a successful meeting. Six came forward for prayers the last evening I was there. The country is stirred, and Elder A. N. Durrant will remain to follow up the interest. If all our church buildings were completed, so that we could hold these special services in all parts of the country, a grand work could soon be accomplished. We are truly grateful that the Lord is dealing graciously with us in this needy field. My own health is good, and reports from my family indicate that they are rapidly recovering. To the Lord be all the praise.

W. G. KNEELAND.