STATE OF THE CAUSE by Editor

Seventh-day Adventist Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Aug 4, 1881

STATE OF THE CAUSE.

By Editor

HAVING had an opportunity to view the field quite largely on this side of the Rocky Mountains, we are prepared to give a favorable report. When Bro. Concord went to the Upper Columbia there had been little or no labor bestowed there for some time, and it could not be expected that the cause would be in a flourishing condition. But he has taken hold with a will; he has trained a goodly number into the missionary work; vigilant missionary societies have been and are being formed; the temperance work is carried on by the formation of clubs; the Sabbath-school interest is not neglected. And the brethren seem disposed to sustain their President in his efforts. They are doing well according to the means which they possess. We only wish that they had facilities to occupy the field according to the increase of population. May God help them to do with their might, and with all diligence, what they find to do.

We have written somewhat fully of the North Pacific Conference. In their present condition they have an experimental work on their hands. We fully join with them in the wish that the arrangement made by the General Conference Committee under the advice of wisdom given from above had been carried out. We have great confidence in the integrity and love of the truth of those who are bearing the burdens in this Conference. And we shall ever remember with loving interest the band of young people with whom we became acquainted at Cornelius. If they retain their anxiety to work for God, and wait upon him in humility, the way will open before them.

Bro. Healey reports that they are not only likely to organize a church in Los Angeles, but to build a meeting-house. This, we hope, may be the beginning of a healthy and permanent work in Southern California. Bro. H. has had good workers to assist him, and there is reason to feel hopeful for that field. The last report from Bro. Briggs in the north is also favorable.

The church in Oakland was re-districted immediately after the Alameda camp-meeting, since which time it has been steadily progressing. It is in better condition now than we ever saw it before. And the same may be said of the church in San Francisco. Two difficulties weighed down this church: a want of zeal on the part of most of those who might have been efficient workers, and a general indifference, or even opposition, to discipline. But seeming at length to realize their condition, they have taken hold to right up wrongs and to discipline wrong-doers, and the church has been revived and confidence restored as a consequence. We feel much encouraged for San Francisco.

A feeling of some discouragement rested upon some of the churches who looked for labor with them, when they learned that Bro. Corliss was obliged to leave this State on account of the condition of his health. But Bro. Van Horn will spend some time here for the benefit of his wife's health, and he and Bro. Israel expect to visit most of the churches before the camp-meeting. We are looking for a good camp-meeting, and as we know of no difficulty now existing in the churches to hinder the work, we think we shall not be disappointed in the meeting.