The Cumberland Camp-Meeting by C. B. Stephenson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 10, 1912

The Cumberland Camp-Meeting

By C. B. Stephenson

The annual session of the Cumberland Conference was held according to appointment in Sweetwater, Tenn., August 22 to September 1. Sweetwater is a small town about sixty miles west of Knoxville on the Southern Railway. The camp was situated quite centrally in the conference, and the meetings were well attended from both our churches and the outside. The audiences reached eight hundred at times. A strong corps of laborers will remain to develop the interest.

The business meetings of the conference were harmonious and pleasant. Some changes were made. Elder W. H. Branson, of South Carolina, was invited to accept the presidency. Elder P. G. Stanley, who has faithfully performed the duties of this office for nearly three years, has been blessed in advancing the work in many departments, and retires with the good will of those for whom he has labored. But few other changes were made. One church was received into the conference.

The brethren and sisters showed their interest in the great unsaved world by donating twelve hundred dollars to missions, besides the Sabbath-school donations, which amounted to over forty dollars. Some decided to sell their farms and give the proceeds to the cause of missions. Others will soon do so.

The Spirit of the Lord came very near during the Sabbath meetings, and made hearts tender and responsive to his leadings. The last Sabbath was a day long to be remembered by all. The Spirit brooded over the congregation while Elder Branson spoke on the importance of victory over all sin, and the willingness of our great Captain to fight the battles for us. Truly his power was manifested. Some who had almost decided to give up Christian service were delivered, and turned back to God. In the afternoon thirty were buried with their Lord in baptism.

Plans were laid to carry on a more extended campaign for the unworked territory of the conference, and also for the prosecution of the Harvest Ingathering and “Ministry of Healing” campaigns.

At the close of the services Sabbath morning Brother John L. Shuler was ordained to the gospel ministry. Elder C. B. Haynes offered the prayer, and the charge was given by the writer. The tender heart and tearful eye evinced the presence of the Holy Spirit and God's acceptance of this dear young man as his ambassador.

Those who attended the meeting from the outside were Elders J. N. Anderson, C. B. Haynes, W. W. Eastman, and V. O. Cole; Profs. C. L. Stone and H. M. Hiatt; Brother W. H. Williams; Drs. M. M. and Estella C. Martinson; and the writer.

We can truly say that the Lord has visited his people. In all, five thousand two hundred dollars was pledged to missions, besides the offerings for the home work. The prospect is encouraging for a prosperous year.

C. B. STEPHENSON.