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R. F. PHIPPENY

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The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Aug 4, 1868

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 32, No. 7.

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R. F. PHIPPENY

By R. F. Phippeny

From Sr. Phippeny.

BRO. SMITH: I would again show my love and respect for my brethren and sisters in Christ, by penning a few lines for the REVIEW. I think I can say that my love for present truth has not abated. But I regret that I have not lived nearer my God. I realize how very necessary it is to be always on our guard against the wiles of the Devil. It has been more forcibly brought to my mind too, by a late occurrence here. Our large and commodious house of worship was burned to the ground on the night of the 20th inst. All agree that it was the work of an incendiary. The fire bursting out of the roof, and no ladder being in the place, and water being very scarce, it was impossible to save the building. The citizens of Ithaca did all they could, by taking off some of the doors, and removing the stoves, and some of the pipe out of danger's reach. They also offered us their school-house to hold meetings in for the present.
How sad my heart is to have to write these things. It seems as if Satan tried with all his relentless hate and power, to destroy the church at Ithaca. Members are dropping off, in different ways, some have been expelled, others withdrawn, &c. But thank God, I believe there are a few here yet that the Lord has an especial care for, and that are trying to overcome.
I think the trials we are having will be for our good, at least these things speak loudly to us to be on our guard against all evil. I feel that I must have eternal life, and that it will be cheap enough at any price. I only ask for sustaining and overcoming grace from on high, that I may go through to the kingdom. We had an encouraging meeting last Sabbath. The testimonies that were borne were earnest and solemn, each one seeming to realize the necessity of living nearer to God. Oh! that we may all live near to him, and finally be saved in his everlasting kingdom.

R. F. PHIPPENY

Ithaca, July 22, 1868: