p. 19 | Merida, Yucatan by E. R. P.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 24, 1910

Merida, Yucatan

By E. R. P.

LETTERS from Brethren J. A. P. Green and J. L. Brown, of Mexico, bring the good news that these brethren have reached their new field in Merida, Yucatan, and have already begun work with excellent success. Brother Green writes:—

“We are now in Merida, Yucatan, ‘the Egypt of the Western hemisphere,’ said to be the cleanest city in the tropics. I am glad Brother Brown and I can work together. We are working out more new ways of getting along. As we learn more of the language, we can make our wants known, and the work goes much easier.”

“Upon arriving in Merida, we looked around for missionaries, and found a Presbyterian Church minister, who is a Spaniard. We told him about our work, and our need of a place to live. He kindly searched around, and secured a beautiful, unfurnished room for us in a

private home, at five dollars a month for us both. In Merida nearly all the people sleep in hammocks; so we purchased two hammocks, quilts, and pillows, and completed the furnishing of the room with a table and three chairs. The first night we suffered with the cold. The second night we slept with our clothes on. The third night we tried sleeping together in one hammock, so we could get the full benefit of all our bedding, but that was not a very comfortable arrangement. To-night we will try sleeping in our overcoats. We miss the soft mattresses at home. However, we shall soon get used to it, and all will be well.”

“During the first nine hours of our work we secured orders to the value of one hundred fifty-seven dollars gold, and have headed our list with the names of some of the most influential people of Merida. I am hoping to grow stronger and more competent, as we gain in experience, so that God can use me to do great things for him.”

Brother Brown also writes: “One thing especially worth noting is how the gospel is-taking hold of these dear people. This morning we visited the only Protestant church in town. It was full of men, women, and children. We long for the day when, as we visit these towns, we shall meet with those of like faith.”

The many interesting letters we are now receiving from Mexico give us a wonderfully vivid picture of the struggles and hardships, and the blessings and victories, which constitute the struggle and reward of our foreign missionaries.

E. R. P.