Portugal by ERNESTO SCHWANTES

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 9, 1907

Portugal

By ERNESTO SCHWANTES

I FIND in sowing the seed in Portugal that it requires some time for the fruit to appear. In Brazil we found everywhere open doors among rich and poor. Men may not accept the truth, but they are willing to hear it. But in Portugal it is not so. It is difficult to get into the homes of the people. They are either fanatically Catholic in religion, or scoffers and unbelievers. It is generally only in the streets and open places that one has opportunity to speak with people and to give out literature.

Recently Brother Rentfro sent for me to come to Lisbon. One young baptized brother had been confused by the opposition of the preachers. The Lord helped us in re-establishing the young man in the truth, and he is working with Brother Rentfro as colporteur. The young man's father and family had been receiving Bible readings from Brother Rentfro, and during our meetings together both father and mother took their stand for the truth. So in December we baptized these two souls in the ocean, at Carcavellos.

Others are deeply interested and are studying the truth, one a Protestant professor, who is studying with Brother Rentfro; and another, a Protestant preacher, who is reading our French publications with the greatest interest. These are some of the interests in Lisbon.

Here in Oporto we hear encouraging words also. A man, wife, and only daughter, who have been Protestants for six years, have accepted the truth. The mother and the daughter have been a special help in our meetings, as both are musicians. We hope soon to see these precious souls buried with their Saviour by baptism. Others deeply interested are attending our meetings and Bible studies. The Lord is at work, and to him we give all the glory.

ERNESTO SCHWANTES.