p. 24 | War Disrupts Meetings in Soubjulak

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 11, 1916

War Disrupts Meetings in Soubjulak

How quickly the scenes shift in the midst of war conditions! Last week we printed a brief word from Elder F. F. Oster, of Persia, reporting everything quiet. Now the Mission Board receives a post card from him, dated a few days later, in which he says: “The other day when I wrote you, all was perfectly well. Within two hours after I had sent the letter, the news came that the Kurds by the thousand had poured unexpectedly into Soubjulak, compelling the small force of Russians to withdraw. Today practically all the Armenians have left this place, fleeing to Tabriz. We have fully decided to remain, for we can be of help to the few who cannot possibly flee. They are taking refuge with us. We hope God will protect us should anything happen. Few people slept last night. How much suffering and privation this incursion of the Kurds will entail! It is bitterly cold, and the ground is covered with snow. Just a year ago today we were halfway to Tabriz, fleeing. It is possible that reenforcements may come in time to help the retreating Russians. A captain and one hundred members of his command were left behind in Soubjulak, because they could not get away in time. Too bad our good meetings should be broken up thus, but God knows what is best. Pray for us.”