North Missouri Camp-Meeting by C. G. Bellah

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 28, 1911

North Missouri Camp-Meeting

By C. G. Bellah

The key-note of this most excellent meeting was sounded by Elder A. R. Ogden the first evening in a sermon from the words of Amos, “Prepare to meet thy God, O Israel.”

It hardly seemed possible that future meetings could be better than the first; but they were, and the attendance and interest grew daily. On the first Sabbath, after a stirring sermon by Prof. F. Griggs, every individual, but one, in the vast audience, came forward, and made thorough consecration to God for service.

Elder A. G. Daniells was with us one day only, but every one felt that if he had got nothing more, this one day would amply repay him for all it cost to attend the camp-meeting. Elder Daniells spoke six times during the day, and every heart was thrilled with the progress this great message is making.

Elder I. H. Evans's description of the work in the Orient rekindled the missionary spirit in the hearts of many, and his talks on the practical side of Christian experience strengthened every one present.

Elders A. T. Robinson, D. U. Hale, and L. W. Terry were also present a part of the time, and rendered valuable service, which was much appreciated by all.

Elder A. R. Ogden was unanimously reelected president. One novel feature worthy of note, was the experiment of furnishing tents and the hauling of baggage, free of charge to all, and asking only for voluntary contributions to defray the expenses of the meeting. The campers heartily responded by contributing about $135, which amply covered the expense. This was a new venture for the North Missouri Conference. Evidently, it was not only successful, but highly satisfactory as well.

When the call for foreign missions was made, over $1,300 was raised, some in cash and the remainder in pledges. The business meetings, while intensely interesting, were particularly free from any friction, and yet all the work and plans were freely discussed. Almost every measure was passed unanimously.

Many expressed the thought that this was the very best and most practical meeting they had ever attended, and that they had received more real help for daily living than ever before.

Missionary meetings were held each day, and were attended by the entire camp. Many who had been standing in the market-place, because no one had hired them, were given work in the Lord's vineyard.

From the very first, the outside attendance was good, but it increased toward the close of the meeting. A tent will be left on the ground, and a series of meetings will be held for the benefit of the people of the city.

All went home better prepared to enter life's stern conflicts, and with the determination not only to live nearer the Lord the coming year, but to do more for him, that other precious ones not now of this fold may rejoice with us in this blessed truth before another year has passed.

C. G. BELLAH.