In Virginia’s Mountains by R. F. FARLEY

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 18, 1916

In Virginia’s Mountains

By R. F. FARLEY

Much has been said about the needs of the mountaineers of the South. The writer had the privilege of attending the closing exercises of our church school in Rileyville, Va., and seeing the transformation that the gospel has wrought there.

The exercises were held on the night of April 5. The entertainment at Thanksgiving time had made such a favorable impression that the people for miles in every direction said they were coming to the final exercises. They were as good as their word. In spite of threatening skies and muddy roads, the hall was crowded long before the time came to begin the program. In opening, prayer was offered by Elder W. H. Armstrong; and the succeeding parts of the program were of a uniformly religious character, quite a noticeable contrast to that given at the public school just a few days previously.

The accompanying picture represents the drill with which the exercises closed. The children, each with a box, marched in an orderly manner, then took their places on the platform. They came forward in turn, each reciting something embodying the word on the box, as he put the box into its proper place. When all had finished, the words “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature,” were before the audience.

An offering amounting to more than five dollars was taken. Besides this, more than $25 had been raised at the Thanksgiving season, and $27 at another time. Thus, thanks to the many friends who sent quilt patches, to the self-sacrificing efforts of the women of the church, and the energy and devotion of the teacher, Miss Alice Gray, nearly $60 was raised toward the liquidation of the school debt. Very soon this little school also will be singing the jubilee song. All are thankful for the good work done. R. F. FARLEY.