East Brazil Mission by F. W. Spies

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 20, 1913

East Brazil Mission

By F. W. Spies

F. W. SPIES

It is encouraging to be able to report that the number of native workers is gradually increasing in our union. September 1 we began a course of instruction at Bahia for the workers of the East Brazil Mission, and for those who desired to enter the work. Three of the four states that compose the East Brazil Mission were represented, as follows: five brethren from Bahia, five from Pernambuco, and one from Alagoas. There was also one brother from Para, of the North Brazil Mission.

The first part of the course was designed especially for the canvassers. But as much of the instruction was of such a nature as to benefit all classes of workers, and as Bible workers and licentiates often find the circulation of literature the best means of gaining an entrance to the homes of the people and creating an interest, these also attended the studies from the beginning.

Two native brethren who have proved themselves good canvassers, were appointed field agents. One takes charge of the work in Bahia, the other in Pernambuco. These new field agents are still canvassers, yet they counsel, help, and further develop the canvassers under their care, and for this receive a compensation from the mission.

GROUP OF WORKERS ATTENDING THE BAHIA (BRAZIL) TRAINING COURSE

We have long waited for some bookmen from abroad, but as none were sent, we thought it best to lay the responsibility upon the most experienced workers we have at hand. This plan has some advantages: the native brethren have the language; they are accustomed to the climate; they are acquainted with the conditions and the customs of the people, understanding their peculiar prejudices; and thus, other things being equal, can do more than a foreigner could, at least in the beginning.

After the field agents and the canvassers had gone into the field, the instruction for Bible workers was continued. Not only do they receive instruction in the theory of the truth and the best methods of work, but Elder J. Lipke (the principal instructor) writes me that, besides the lessons given, he accompanies the six different students, one at a time, in their Bible work from house to house thus assisting them in a practical way.

We find the native brethren desirous of taking the truth which they have found so precious to their souls, to their countrymen; and as they take these short courses of instruction, we see that they grow in efficiency, and that the Lord blesses them in their humble efforts to help others; and souls are gained and prepared for the coming of Jesus. Still, we need men to act as leaders in our union, and we hope a few such may soon be sent to our field.

Estacao Sao Bernardo.