South Russian Conference by D. Isaak

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 12, 1911

South Russian Conference

By D. Isaak

D. ISAAK

We thank our Heavenly Father for protecting his children during the terrible cholera epidemic and other dangers. This field includes the governments of Bessarabia, Kherson, Ekaterinoslaf, Taurida, and the southwestern corner of the Don district. The population is about eleven million, made up of Russians, Germans, Jews, and others. Educational advantages are increasing, yet the greater portion of the people can neither read nor write.

The soil is very fertile, and the climate good. Crops seldom fail. Grains, vegetables, and fruits of all kinds are cultivated in abundance. Wheat, potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes, apples, grapes, and melons are among the main products. From its great mines, the earth also gives different kinds of coal, iron, and useful stone or rock. Great factories and mills have been erected here within the last few years, which are carrying on a large business, and are helping thousands of poor people to gain a livelihood. These are controlled largely by foreigners.

Crimea

The Crimea is the most famous health resort in Russia. Thousands come every summer to the cities of Eupatoria, Sevastopol, and Jalta for rest and various cures. Were a doctor to come here with two or three nurses and a cook, set up a health restaurant, bath-room, etc., work would be plentiful and success sure.

The Mission Work

With the help of the Lord, we have received 207 persons into the church in the last two years, and have organized four churches and two companies. The tithe has steadily increased.

With the Lord’s blessing, the work in Odessa, despite difficulties, has made a good beginning. At Ekaterinoslaf, Taganrog, and Berdiansk, where there are now young churches and a good interest, we plan to continue the work; but as we are very short of workers and means, we are obliged to let other cities, towns, and hundreds of villages remain waiting.

The interest in cities and villages is especially good. Doors and hearts are open. The Lord is our guide and helper. Our trust is in him. He must finish his work, and cut it short in righteousness.