Sanitarium · Relief Campaign by L. A. Hansen

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

Sanitarium · Relief Campaign

By L. A. Hansen

In Southern Illinois

By arrangement with the president of the Southern Illinois Conference, Elder E. A. Bristol, seven churches in that conference were recently visited in the interests of the “Ministry of Healing” campaign. Because of limited time no more could be visited.

On account of very bad weather, the attendance was small at Peoria. Those present seemed to feel it their duty to share in this work, and pledged accordingly. Elder B. F. Stureman, who has charge of the work at this place, will take up the campaign with the church. He also helped in presenting it to the companies at Bloomington and Champaign, at which places there were some who were willing to do their part.

Champaign is favorably situated for placing our health literature before the people. The local sanitarium work has been carried on about four years, and has made an excellent impression with the public. The two sisters conducting it are held in high esteem, and have made many friends for their work. A high standard has been upheld by the workers, and there is a well-developed interest on the part of many in our health principles.

Decatur is another place where the health work has made marked progress. For a number of years Brother and Sister R. B. Craig have conducted treatment-rooms, and unusual success has attended their work. Besides carrying on a work that has appealed strongly to the public, they have been a strength to our own church and conference work. Under their leadership the members have engaged in all lines of work, and of course the relief campaign will receive attention. A beginning was made at this meeting, and the work will be carried forward.

At Centralia there is a small company of comparatively new members, but the appreciation shown in being visited, and the love expressed for the truth, were such as to more than repay the visitor. They insisted on hearing all that could be told in the evening’s sitting, even though it did take two hours.

At Duquoin is a good-sized company, including students and teachers from the school. Dr. W. C. Dalbey is leader, and being much interested in the advancement of the health work, will give valuable assistance, both here and in other churches, in presenting the campaign. A good response was made by a number of those present.

There was a good attendance at the Sunday-night meeting at Springfield, and the members of the church showed deep interest in the subject presented. Elder Bristol and Brother Craig were also present. Some had already pledged their part; others at this time gave their names for books.

This conference is not a large one in membership, and it has some unfavorable conditions to meet; but there are good workers, willing people, and good territory; and a continuance of the spirit shown by many will bring only good results from this or any other strong missionary effort.

L. A. HANSEN.