Progress of the Work Among the Colored by C. P. Stephenson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 4, 1915

Progress of the Work Among the Colored

By C. P. Stephenson

In many respects 1914 was the banner year in the work for the colored race. Truly the Lord went before, by his Holy Spirit and the ministry of angels, preparing the hearts of the people for the reception of the truth. The number of persons baptized and of churches developed was limited because we could not place more workers in the field.

Every worker, as far as I know, had very satisfactory returns from his service. Tent efforts usually result in the establishment of churches. This is true, even in our large cities, where much opposition has been met. There is quite a number of churches that have a membership of from one hundred to two hundred, with frequent additions, which indicates a growing interest.

With the increase of membership, there was a corresponding increase in tithes and offerings. I quote from a letter received from one of the workers in the South: “In our evangelistic endeavors for 1914, we won 186 accessions, of which 160 have been added to our church membership throughout the union mission. The union mission has contributed $1,000, made up of Sabbath school, Midsummer, Harvest Ingathering, and Annual offerings. Our tithe from the five local missions for 1914 has reached the $7,000 mark.” This is in old territory that has been worked more or less, and is an illustration of what is being done in other conferences.

The workers are striving to advance the interests of the third angel’s message, and to preserve unity and harmony of action. While progress has been made in the past, I am sure none are satisfied with it, and that each will put forth more earnest efforts to make the present year more prosperous.

C. P. STEPHENSON.