TENNESSEE RIVER CAMP-MEETING.
By Reuben M. Kilgore
The camp was within three blocks of the courthouse square in Franklin, Ky. From the beginning the outside attendance filled the large pavilion every night, while the most plain and pointed truth was presented. Many questions were passed in, which gave us an opportunity to explain quite fully several points of our faith. This is new ground; the people are willing and anxious to hear. A daily Bulletin was issued, giving a synopsis of the discourses. These Bulletins were distributed by the campers from house to house. This gave our people an opportunity to visit the citizens and invite them to the meetings. These missionary efforts proved a blessing to all who worked, as their living testimonies showed. Prior to the meeting, advertisements were solicited and obtained from the merchants. These advertisements paid for the Bulletins, many of which were distributed by the merchants. About one hundred persons occupied the family tents, and rooms near the camp. The instruction given was received and appreciated. The Spirit of God was present. Many went forward for prayers, and in response to the call for entire consecration, the whole congregation came forward. Twelve were baptized. Among them were Brother George Wales and his wife. How many cities there are in the South where our good brethren and sisters of experience, from Battle Creek and other large churches in the North, could go and do good work. I would be glad to aid those contemplating this plan of work by communicating to them any knowledge that I possess concerning the field. Prof. J. E. Tenney presented the true principles of Christian education, which must enter into the experience of all who are saved. Our young people must be awakened to make a speedy preparation for the work of God, and our people generally should bestir themselves to put into operation God-given principles in their home and church schools. Dr. O. M. Hayward’s discourses on Life, its origin, source, the object of the Giver, and the relation that we sustain to Him in preserving this gift of God, were profitable to all. The canvassing work, tithing, offerings, the home and foreign fields, and the publishing interests at Nashville were all held up before the people in a plain way, and we believe good results will follow. The writer, with Elder W. J. Stone and other local laborers, constituted the remaining working force. There were but few changes in the officers elected. A medical missionary department was created, with Brother L. A. Hansen as secretary. The Conference stands clear of debt, and sufficient funds on hand to settle all their current bills. Courage, good cheer, and confidence marked all the actions of the body.