Quarterly Meeting in Cuba
By H. F. KETRING
On Sabbath, December 31, more than forty believers, all Cubans in and around Havana, assembled at the home of Elder E. W. Snyder. After the Sabbath-school, instruction was given by Brother Snyder and the writer on the privileges and duties of church-members. After this three intelligent young women presented themselves for baptism. They had been keeping the Sabbath from eight months to two years, as in these countries we feel that we must hold back the candidates for this ordinance until they are thoroughly established, in order to avoid as much as possible the painful sifting process afterward. These were carefully examined by Brother Snyder, when nearly all went to the place of baptism to witness the public confession of their faith in their risen Saviour. At 2 P. M. all met together again, and the church roll was called, each having18an opportunity to respond with a testimony. These were refreshing indeed. Some told of severe struggles with the adversary, but without exception there followed the triumphant testimony of victory. When we remember that these souls have but recently been rescued from the darkness and superstition of Roman Catholicism, an idea can be formed of the fierce combats they have with the enemy in this mission field. After each of the members had testified, all the rest improved the opportunity of telling of God’s mercy to them. It was indeed touching to hear them tell how they had been led out of darkness into this blessed light; and that they hoped before another quarterly meeting time came, they, too, could be baptized and unite with the true church of God. After all had participated in the ordinance of humility, the day closed with the celebration of the Lord’s supper, which was partaken of with a solemnity becoming the occasion. During the day each one brought an envelope containing his tithes and offerings for the quarter, and put it in the place assigned. These believers are taught that, as the tithes and offerings of others brought the light to them, they in turn are expected to return unto the Lord of what he has bestowed on them, in order that the light may be carried to others. The tithe amounted to $65.65, and the offerings to $11.05, American gold. Five years ago, Brother and Sister Snyder began work in this dark field. The work has gone hard, as many who are not under the baneful influence of the Roman clergy are wholly given up to infidelity. But even here the Lord has his jewels, and they have been able to find a few of them. There are now over eighty Cuban Sabbath-keepers in the island. There are twenty-four natives in the Havana church, who paid tithe last year to the amount of $213.32, American gold. When one considers their poverty, this shows a faithfulness to be commended. This was the first quarterly meeting service I have had the privilege of attending among the Spanish people for nearly six years, and to me it was a precious occasion indeed. I praise the Lord for what he is doing among this priest-ridden people.