Among the Dutch in South Africa
By G. W. Shone
If there is one field in South Africa where there is need of good, strong, consecrated workers, it is the Dutch field. If there is one field in South Africa where there is a dearth of laborers, again it is the Dutch field. Our brethren who have come to us from America to assist in carrying forward the message for this time, have failed to acquire the language spoken by more than half the European population of South Africa. The Dutch predominate among the white population, and nearly all are members of the Dutch Reformed Church, which they look upon as a national church. Their ministers rule over them with about the same power that the Roman Catholic priests exercise over their flocks. They live in affluence, receiving large salaries, and the Dutch Reformed parsonage, which is also a gift to the minister from his congregation, is usually one of the finest dwelling-houses in the town where he resides. What “Myneer” says is law, and there is no questioning his authority. This makes the work very difficult; for if the minister forbids the people to purchase our literature or attend our meetings, they would not dare disobey. There are, however, to be found some noble exceptions, and while laboring among these people, I find some who are willing to face opposition, and step out upon the platform of eternal truth. The Dutch live mostly in the country, and compose the bulk of the farming community. My labors for the most part of this year have been among this class, and thus far some fine people have accepted the message, in the face of strong opposition from their ministers. I am looking for more fruit soon, as some are still under deep conviction who have not yet had the courage to face the storm. The outlook is promising, but the laborers are few. May the Lord soon send into this portion of his vineyard those who can give the warning to the people in their mother tongue.