China by J. N. ANDERSON

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 24, 1908

China

By J. N. ANDERSON

CANTON.—Owing to some hindering circumstances, our quarterly meeting in Canton was one week late this fall. As heretofore, all the brethren and sisters from both Fat Shan and Kongmoon met with us. Only one church thus far has been organized in this province, and for that reason we all come together at these quarterly occasions. After Sabbath-school, and a good sermon by Dr. Law in the forenoon, we gathered at three o'clock in the afternoon for the celebration of the ordinances of the church. Thirty-four took part, and the service was spiritual, and very helpful to us all. As is the case in all our Sabbath meetings, only a few non-Christians were present. Our chapel is large enough to seat all our church-members and our inquirers, but that is all; so we do not allow people from the street in our Sabbath meetings. In this connection I may be allowed to add that a new chapel, built and owned by ourselves, is very much needed in Canton.

On the following day, Sunday, it was our privilege to celebrate the ordinance of baptism. A large house-boat, with a capacity sufficient to carry all who wished to go, was secured for about one dollar. These boats are furnished much as a house is, and afford about the same protection and comfort. Thus embarked, we sang hymns as the tide carried us down the river about two miles to the place of baptism. It was an inspiring service, and a helpful object-lesson to all those who witnessed the five young men and one young woman follow the example of the Lord. This rite, like all the other ordinances of our Saviour, solemnly and eloquently sets forth the great truth of the gospel, and leaves its lessons upon the hearts and minds of all who witness it, whether in China or in whatever part of the world, it was a blessed day for us, and we all felt that God witnessed to the service.

Three of these young men were from Fat Shan, the first-fruits from that city, the young woman was from the Bethel Girls' School, while the other two young men were from our Bible school. Several of these give promise of becoming workers in this cause, and so being the means of gathering still others. Counting the five that have been added from Chao Chow Fu, this makes eleven added to our numbers in this province thus far this year. We feel deeply grateful to the Lord for all his workings, and pray that these souls may be steadfast in the truth.

J. N. ANDERSON.