Monthly Meeting at Curtis' Corners, R. I.
By J. S. Miller
The occurrence of the Monthly Meeting reminds us that another month has rolled away, and as I record the results of another of our monthly gatherings, my mind reaches forward with pleasing anticipations to the time when we shall, from one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, go up to worship the Lord in the metropolis of the new earth. Our first meeting on Sabbath eve was small, but had, however, a good variety of gifts, Bro. Rodman and two other brethren from Ashaway, Bro. H. G. Buxton from Abington, Conn., and Bro. D. M. Canright, being present. One pleasing result of establishing a regular Monthly Meeting is, that our brethren from abroad are beginning to visit us. This is as it should be, only it should be more extensive. Let us become acquainted, brethren, and so be better prepared to engage in the work of proclaiming this last merciful message. The time was all well occupied on Sabbath eve, nearly all present taking part. The Spirit of the Lord was with us. A number of others would, undoubtedly, have been present but for the stormy appearance of the weather. On Sabbath morning, Bro. H. C. Winslow, of Topsham, Me., arrived, and united with us in the social exercises during the session. Our social meeting on Sabbath morning was attended by about fifty Sabbath-keepers. We had a sweet season of prayer, and afterward a number of testimonies were given, but not with that promptness that seems necessary in order to do the most good and secure the greatest blessing. At eleven, Bro. Canright spoke from John xv, 19. His remarks were very pointed, and in the spirit of love and kindness; yet with great plainness, we were shown what results must necessarily follow if we had been really chosen out of the world. It was clearly shown, that as we progress in the message, the distinction between God's people and the world will become more and more marked. Bro. Rodman followed365with a brief exhortation, pressing home the truths we had heard. In the afternoon, Bro. Rodman spoke from Romans vii, 21,—a subject which seemed to naturally follow as a sequel to the morning discourse. In the evening, Bro. Canright spoke from Romans iii, and it is believed that some new light on the law was brought to the minds of many present. First-day morning, we had a business meeting, at which two members were united to the church, and other business transacted. At two, we had a social meeting, followed by preaching. At three, Bro. Canright spoke with much freedom from Amos iii, 7. There was a large congregation present at this meeting, about half of them friends outside the message. How they could listen to such a sermon as we had on this occasion, and not be convinced, is a mystery. To what extent conviction rested on their hearts, the day of the Lord alone can reveal. On Sunday evening we had a good gathering. Bro. Rodman spoke from the 7th of Daniel. This part of the message, though well-established in the minds of most of the Sabbath-keepers, is, nevertheless, one of those subjects that is ever interesting to those whose hearts are in the work. So closed another of our monthly feasts on the word of life. But let us remember, brethren and sisters, that after the feast comes the labor. If any man will not work, neither shall he eat. 2 Thess. iii, 10. And now may the brief period that intervenes between this and the Exeter meeting be occupied with earnest prayer and preparation of heart. Tower Hill, R. I., May 18. P. S. Correspondents will please address me until further notice, at Tower Hill, R. I. J. S. M.