p. 15 | J. W. WESTPHAL by J. W. Westphal

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 29, 1911

J. W. WESTPHAL

By J. W. Westphal

Ecuador

J. W. WESTPHAL

I AM glad to report progress in the work in Ecuador. The necessary changes in laborers have very naturally retarded its progress, yet the truth has made impressions, and we are now beginning to reap the benefits. That which has effected the most lasting good is the literature distributed, the Señales giving us the quickest results. One brother in Guayaquil has been living the truth for more than four years; two have been baptized on the coast in different localities, and two others, we have reason to believe, have died in the hope of a part in the first resurrection—largely the fruit of our literature.

A man in another place is calling for help; but, owing probably to the work of enemies, it has been impossible to communicate with him. At Ambato a young man, a telegrapher, has accepted the truth and desires baptism. Another bright young man believes the message, and in part is obeying it. At Quito, the capital, a family who have known the distorted side of the message for a number of years in Peru, and who have consequently opposed it, recently began to keep the Sabbath. A day's journey north of Quito, by mule, a man writes that he is keeping the Sabbath; he is calling for help.

Both Elder W. W. Wheeler and Brother Osborne suffered from malaria on their visit to the coast; hence they will not risk another trip there until the dry season. They hope soon to respond to the call to the north of Quito.

Nearly since the opening of the Ecuador Mission, the laborers have lived at Ambato, considered one of the most healthful places of the world. During this time they have made many friends among all classes. For two months Brother and Sister Osborne have done considerable work in giving treatments to the sick, with excellent results. Cases which physicians had not benefited received immediate relief from the treatments given. This has increased the friendship of the people, and some are recommending their work very highly. Since one family had begun to keep the Sabbath at Quito, and in view of the fact that the situation seemed especially favorable to begin the work of treating the sick, it was decided that Brother Osborne and family move to this place, and labor as the way might open. Brother and Sister Wheeler will continue to reside in Ambato.

The most urgent need in Ecuador is the need of canvassers. There should be at least two who would devote all their time to the circulation of our literature. They must be men who will endure hardness as good soldiers; they must be able to make themselves one with the people, to leave behind all Americanism, and to be Christians only. If the work opens in Quito, as we have reason to hope, there will soon be need for more nurses.

The laborers are of good courage in the Lord. They are in love with their field and work. They have no inclination to return home. Their special desire is for more help.