Your ShelfYour Projects

New Mission Opened in South India

17%

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 17, 1915

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 92, No. 30.

Read the full edition

New Mission Opened in South India

By V. E. Peugh

V. E. PEUGH
IN August of 1914 we opened up work in Pondicherry, a seaport belonging to the Republic of France. In a most wonderful way God has been stirring the hearts of the people in this place to study the present truth. Already seven persons have been baptized, and as many others are preparing for baptism. Many of these have gained decisive victories over the use of betel nut, tobacco, and liquor, and several of the women have taken off their jewels. Some have had to give up remunerative positions that they might keep the Sabbath; but these struggles have given them a live missionary spirit, and they are distributing tracts and papers, and holding Bible readings with their neighbors.
Pondicherry is a stronghold of Roman Catholicism. The French government prohibits any regular gathering of more than twenty adults without a permit from the government. Consequently our work has had to be done in a very quiet way. At present we have before that government a petition asking for the privilege of conducting public meetings, and we are praying that this liberty may be given us.
As our company of believers increases, we are confronted with new problems. We now feel very keenly the need of a school for our children. All the schools in this district hold regular sessions on Sabbath, making it very difficult for the children of our people. Moreover, we believe that these bright boys and girls should have an education that will fit them to carry the gospel to their own people.
It strengthens our faith in the saving power of God when we see the change in the lives of these dear people, and especially when those who have grown hoary amid the superstitions of heathenism, destroy their idols and manifest a strong faith in God. Only a few days ago a woman bent with age, replied, when I asked her how old she was, “I am seventy-seven years old, but I expect to live to see the Lord come.” We believe that such faith will be rewarded, and that many others from this place will be looking forward to the glorious appearing of our Lord.