Northern Illinois Conference by W. A. Westworth

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 15, 1916

Northern Illinois Conference

By W. A. Westworth

THE work in the Northern Illinois Conference is prospering, and there are indications that the blessing of God will follow in the efforts that are being made to advance his cause. In two portions of our conference recent developments indicate the special blessing of God. About a year ago Elder T. F. Hubbard opened up evangelical work in the city of Moline. This is the home of the Tri-City Sanitarium, but our work was almost entirely confined to this medical institution. Very little had ever been done to reach those that were not reached by the sanitarium. Elder Hubbard conducted a successful course of tent meetings last summer, at which time he was assisted by Brother J. D. Reavis. A good congregation came to hear the message, and as the result of the summer and early winter's work, more than a score of persons have been baptized and added to the church.

This spring a movement was launched to build a church. With the help of the sanitarium, the church members have been enabled to erect one of the prettiest small churches that we have been privileged to see. The furnishings are of the best, and the church-school room in the rear meets every requirement of the latest demands. The dedication of the Moline church took place May 14, the dedicatory sermon being preached by Elder L. H. Christian, president of the Lake Union Conference.

There is a strong and growing interest in Moline, and Elder Hubbard will conduct another tent effort there this summer. We believe that all who have seen the new building at Moline, and have noted the advancement of the work in this place, will unite in a testimony of praise to God for his goodness to his people.

In the city of Chicago, across the state from Moline, Elder W. D. Forde has been conducting a very successful effort for the colored people. June 5-7 an anniversary service was held. This marked five years' growth and development from the time their little church building was erected and dedicated. In the meantime the church membership has increased almost five hundred per cent, and is now more than the building can well accommodate. One of the noticeable features in the growth of the Dearborn Street church is the large amount of missionary work that is being done by its members under the efficient leadership of Brother Forde. Although the membership is only ninety-two, they are conducting every week forty-six regularly appointed cottage meetings or Bible readings. This means an average of one service a week for each two members in the church. God is blessing this home missionary work, and souls are constantly being brought to the light of his truth. From other parts of the conference the same cheering word comes to us, and on every hand we can see the leading of our heavenly Father in the fruitage that is being given to his servants. Pray for us that the work in this conference may prosper until the Lord sees fit to cut it short in righteousness.

W. A. WESTWORTH.