Solusi Mission by M. C. Sturdevant

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 22, 1910

Solusi Mission

By M. C. Sturdevant

NEVER in the history of the old Matabeleland Mission Station has the work been so prosperous as during the past year. Eighteen months ago our boarding students numbered between forty-five and fifty at the most; to-day we can report one hundred three boarding students, and the usual number outside. Our buildings are all crowded, from the church building to the last corner for sleeping. We are forced to enlarge. Therefore we began this month to make brick for more buildings. We want to make one hundred thousand brick if possible, before the rains and the planting season come on.

Besides the home-school work, we have eight out-schools. These do good work, and feed the home school. Excellent work is being done, and I do not see how the interest could be better. The spiritual interest in the home school is also high. Many are asking for baptism. We shall start a class soon for that purpose. More girls are attending our schools than ever before. We are glad for this, although it means more work for us. The girls are much harder to control than the boys. Having always been slaves at home, when they do break loose from that restraint, they become proud and stubborn. It takes patience to hold them. But the girls must have a share in the gospel. When consecrated, they become good workers.

The health of our mission workers was never better than the past year. The white workers have all kept exceptionally well, notwithstanding the continual strain, and there has not been the usual fever among the natives.

Mrs. Sturdevant and I had a very narrow escape, July 4. While on our way to Bulawayo, thirty-three miles distant, our horse stumbled and fell, throwing us both from the cart. I landed upon my feet, and so was not hurt, but my wife did not fare so well; her fall fractured three ribs, jarred the lungs and brain, and bruised her body quite badly. We were ten miles from town, and had to ride that distance before help could be obtained. It was a very painful ride, yet she bore it bravely, and I got her into the hospital as soon as I could, where all possible help and kindness were shown her. As soon as she was able, I brought her home, and now she is able to enter again upon her duties, though not without pain. This was a severe trial, as she is the only white woman on the place.

The Lord has also provided for the temporal needs of our mission. Our

crops were fair, though not the best. Our corn crop was good; other produce, such as potatoes, beans, and peanuts, was not nearly so good as in the past. We shall have plenty of food for the mission, but not so much to sell this year as formerly.

We earnestly entreat the prayers of our people that we may have grace, courage, and strength to continue till the work is finished, and Jesus comes to redeem his people. We earnestly desire a part with them then. Our interests are also with our brethren in all parts of the world, and our daily prayers ascend to God for them.

M. C. STURDEVANT.