South Dakota Camp Meeting
By I. G. Ortner
THE camp meeting at Huron, S. Dak., held June 12-21 on the State fairgrounds, was a successful one, notwithstanding that the meeting opened amid stormy weather and heavy winds. Besides the conference laborers, there were present Elders Chas. Thompson, C. L. Emmerson, J. H. Schilling, M. L. Andreasen, Valentine Leer, S. Mortenson, A. R. Ogden, and E. T. Russell; Profs. Frederick Griggs, E. C. Witzke, H. A. Morrison, and W. W. Ruble; Brethren F. E. Painter and W. H. Edwards. The attendance from the city was good, and the preaching was of an inspiring nature, touching the heart, the burden being, One soul brought to Christ by each one in the conference in 1914. The conference president, who had served faithfully for four years, wished to be relieved of official duties, that he might give himself more fully to the work of the ministry; so this important work, after careful consideration, was laid upon Elder E. T. Russell, formerly of the Central Union Conference. The other conference officers remained the same as for the past year. During the meeting two baptismal services were conducted, and about thirty-five candidates were buried with their Master in the watery grave. Reports of the various departments showed progress in every line of work. Fifteen cents a week per member for the first six months of 1913 and twenty cents a week for the last six months of the year were fully met by the conference. Tithe receipts showed an increase of about $2,000 over the previous year. The per cent of tithe to missions was sent to the General Conference as recommended; thus it can be said of the South Dakota Conference that it met all expectations of the General Conference for the year. A successful cafeteria was conducted, which allowed the sisters more time to attend the meeting. In view of the prospects of a good crop in this State, a movement was begun which is hoped will reduce the financial obligations of the conference very materially this year. The conference starts upon its year with hope and courage to continue the proclamation of the last message of mercy to a dying world.
I. G. ORTNER.