Natal-Transvaal by Herbert J. Edmed

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Mar 2, 1905

Natal-Transvaal

By Herbert J. Edmed

The work in this field goes steadily onward. At Durban Elder Altman has closed his tent-meetings, and has held meetings in a hall, with a slightly increasing interest. But the interest there has been disappointing throughout the series. We were very sorry we could not give Elder Altman a stronger force of workers; but having neither the men nor the means, we were obliged to let him labor with only one helper, Brother Spearing. A few have taken their stand, and we rejoice in this manifestation of the Lord's blessing.

The work at Durban has recently been strengthened by Brethren H. Schmidt, F. Spearing, and C. Robinson, who formed a canvassing company and worked the city and the surrounding country, with a fair measure of success. The canvassing work goes rather hard just now, on account of the great depression of trade throughout our conference.

In Johannesburg Elder Kuehl and his wife, with Misses Webster and Keet, have just closed a series of tent-meetings. This was the third series, and they report that a few have also taken their stand for the truth. The church there is planning to erect a church building on the site so kindly donated by Brother John Wessels, and the Lord is blessing their effort.

In Vryheid Brother and Sister Ernst have had a very hard time. They found the times so depressing there that they decided to discontinue canvassing, and to devote their time to Bible work. There are five new Sabbath-keepers there, and their decision to obey the Lord has enraged the ministers, who have spared no means to warn their flocks against Brother Ernst's work. Yet he is of good courage, and we watch his work with deep interest.

In Maritzburg we are having a fair attendance at our public meetings, and the work of building a church proceeds encouragingly. We sold the old church at a fair price, and are building in a more central position. An architect prepared the plans for us free of cost, and will superintend the erection of the building for a nominal price. We rejoice in the addition of a few more members, who, we expect, will be ready for baptism when the new church is ready for the service.

In many respects this year has been one of great trial and great conflict. But while “all this is come upon us; yet have we not forgotten Thee. . . . Our heart is not turned back, neither have our steps declined from thy way.” We will earnestly press the battle to the gates. May the prayers of God's people follow our work day by day.

HERBERT J. EDMED.