The people of Iceland are mostly moral, there being but few criminals. Thefts and fights are very rare, and robbery and murder are never heard of. The prison in Reykjavik has very few inmates. The people are sober, and not addicted to strong drink. The prohibition movement has made great progress. The most prominent people take part in it.
SCENES IN ICELAND
But though the people are morally good, as much can not be said concerning the religious conditions. The Lutheran Church is the state church. There are a few Free Lutherans, who have a society. This was organized about eighteen years ago, and has its headquarters in the eastern part of the island. It comprises two churches, with upward of four thousand members. The difference between the Free Lutherans and the state church is mainly this: the former will not recognize any authority of the state, working according to its own convictions. I can not say, however, that this movement has any strong tendency toward awakening the people, being built on the same foundation as the other — baptism of infants, confirmation, etc. Personal piety is not urged as we would like to see it. It can not be questioned, however, that this movement has its effect, as far as the spiritual condition is concerned. The religious work inaugurated by it has found great sympathy, both among the educated and among the common people, and even many of the priests of the state church view it with sympathy.
A few years ago the Mormons began work in the country. They succeeded in raising up a small company, the majority of whom went to Utah. Recently their work has ceased.
The Catholics have sent some missionaries to Reykjavik and other places in the eastern part. In the capital they have a little church building, and in Faskrudsfjord they have erected a hospital. They have so far had but little success on this island, but undoubtedly have the intention of propagating their doctrine in the future.
For the last few years the Salvation Army has held meetings here. Their headquarters are in Reykjavik. They have also begun their “war” in two other cities, though they have made very little progress.
In December, 1898, the Seventh-day Adventists began work in Reykjavik. From the beginning, this work has made advancement, and many are showing an interest in it, and the outlook for the future is not dark. The people of Iceland are a thinking, reflecting people. Preaching, which has for its purpose education, seems to have the best promise of being accepted. The writer believes that better days will dawn in this field; for the truth must find its way to many hearts.
