JOHN MATTESON by John Matteson

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 8, 1870

JOHN MATTESON

By John Matteson

Report.

In Centerville I had to meet some very fanatical opposition by the United Brethren minister. On the second night of his protracted meeting he threw out every wicked and mean insinuation against us that he could think of. When his meeting closed I gave notice to review him. He objected, and ordered me arrested; but none would heed his orders. He said he had a good mind to lay his hands on me. Then he tried to hire the house for his own use, but the trustees refused. After much disturbance I got a hearing. Order was restored, and all stayed. A good and, I trust, lasting impression was made on the minds of the people. The majority of his own members lost confidence in him, and some of them decided to have no more fellowship with him. He confessed before all, after I got through, that I had witnessed a good experience in religion, but my doctrine was dark infidelity. He then withdrew his meeting, and I continued meetings undisturbed through the week. Several have taken a stand for the truth. I do not know yet how many.

I intend to visit again after a while. Organized a Bible Class with fourteen members, before I left.

Since then I have been four weeks near Ft. Lincoln. The brethren who live south of Mound City, live from two to five miles round Ft. Lincoln. I did not intend to stay here long, but was drawn into a discussion with the Methodist minister, on the immortality question. He was the leading man of that class in the county, and was looked up to by all. We continued six sessions. House crowded to overflowing. The notary public of the place officiated as chairman. Question decided in favor of the truth by committee at close of debate.

After this I tried to follow up the interest. Weather not very favorable. Prejudice strong on account of failings and difficulties among our brethren, of long standing. Small attendance. Some convinced of the truth. Prospect of a few being gained. Had some solemn and searching meetings with the brethren. Better feelings and union are being established among them. Have organized a Bible Class with sixteen members.

Commenced preaching last Sunday in this place—Mapleton—six miles west of Ft. Lincoln, by urgent request of one of the leading men in society. This is a small village on the prairie. A beautiful farming country around it. A large and convenient schoolhouse. Good attendance and interest to hear so far. Plenty of openings to preach in this country. School-houses free, for all denominations, every where.

JOHN MATTESON

Mapleton, Kan., Jan. 25, 1870.