The Syrian-Egyptian Mission by W. C. Ising

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 27, 1911

The Syrian-Egyptian Mission

By W. C. Ising

W. C. ISING

We are grateful for the success of the third angel’s message seen in this field during the past year. Ten precious souls were received into the church, nine by baptism and one by vote. In nearly every station occupied by our workers some fruit has been yielded; namely, Beirut, Jerusalem, Joppa, Luxor (ancient Thebes), and Alexandria. This indicates the result of the leaven of truth deposited in these places. We hope for still better returns in the future.

Last year marked the beginning of our canvassing work in Syria as well as in Egypt. While Brother Zachary began to canvass in Beirut early in January, Brother Dikran, who had been selling peanuts in Alexandria, exchanged this work for the privilege of becoming a colporter in the cause. Then, again, in Cairo, Brother Beserdjian, having once made a start in selling our literature, has found this to be such a blessing that he is determined to put in extra time in this work, at the same time working at his trade, that of a sculptor. He has sold several hundred copies of the newly published “Steps to Christ,” which he translated into Armenian. One Sunday he sold twenty-four copies, valued at ten dollars. Our prayer is that God will raise up other faithful brethren to sell the printed page. Especially ought Cairo to have many good canvassers. It is interesting to know that the three brethren whom God has chosen to be the pioneers in this branch of the work are Armenians. In the spring of last year some of our young brethren from Asia Minor went to Egypt. They have been the means of starting our work anew in Cairo, and of bringing the message to two others with whom they lived.

Having now started the canvassing, practically the backbone of our work, we are anxious to prepare such literature in the Arabic language as will be most helpful for the beginning. We have some tracts under preparation, and hope soon to be able to present these to the people. Since Arabic is the leading language in this field, it is necessary that we should make a good start in the native tongue, rather than give our special attention to the minority. There are several indications that we shall soon be able to carry on this work for the natives more vigorously.

We are glad to say that our Jerusalem health institution has made good progress in its work the past year. For the first time, I believe, it was self-supporting, and had a little surplus with which to begin the new year. Although, viewed from a numerical standpoint, the progress in our field has been small, we know that God will use these little beginnings for greater things. That such may be the case is our continual prayer, and for this we ask the support of all our people.

Beirut, Syria.