Report from Bro. Strong.
By Philip Strong
SINCE my last report, I have been laboring in St. Joseph Co., Ind. I commenced meetings at Walkerton, in the Baptist meeting-house, Oct. 31. Bro. Harvey had engaged and paid for the use of the house for a course of lectures some time previous. Everything looked favorable. The people turned out to listen with candor. The pastor, Eld. Hummer, manifested quite an interest in circulating our appointment, stirring the people up to come out and listen, and in praying for the advancement of the truths he had listened to. His appeals were very earnest; but a change came. I gave eighteen lectures, and some of his flock decided to obey; but he decided to shut up his eyes, his heart, and his house, against the truth. I then engaged the school-house in which to continue the meetings, but had to wait for it to be repaired; and before the time came when I could commence again, the opposition had started an extra school-meeting, and shut the school-house (which is contrary to the laws of the State; but he that feareth not the law of God cannot be expected to obey the laws of men), so, for the present, we are shut out of that place. Many became very much interested, and a few decided to obey; but we cannot reach them at present for want of a house. Sabbaths and first-days, I have been holding meetings with the church at North Liberty; have also held some during the week since the close of our other meetings. There is quite an interest here to listen to the truth, but not sufficient to demand a series of meetings at present. The church here is in better working order than it has been for years. A new elder has been chosen and set apart. Bro. Wm. Carpenter was their choice. I hope he may have wisdom to lead the flock. They have founded a Missionary Society to act in concert with the body, and have pledged ninety-three dollars. I shall continue to hold meetings with them on the Sabbath. I think if Bro. and Sr. White could come and dedicate their house and hold a few meetings with them, it would give a new impetus to the cause and do much good. I pray that the Lord may direct them this way. I have commenced a series of meetings in the Kankakee district, four miles north of Liberty. There is some interest manifested. Pray that I may have wisdom and humility to labor to the glory of God. PHILIP STRONG.