Tent-Meeting in Japan by H. Kuniya

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 2, 1909

Tent-Meeting in Japan

By H. Kuniya

H. KUNIYA

Our work in the district around Wakamatsu was crippled for many years owing to the fact that one of our young men had refused the military service. It was in this city, eight years ago, I had my first experience in raising up a church. Driven out of the Congregational Church because I preached the second coming of our dear Saviour, I had begun my missionary work here.

August 27 of this year we began to preach publicly in the tent at Wakamatsu. The weather was delightful, and hundreds, guided by an unseen hand, came to listen to this gospel of the kingdom. We were obliged to ask the children to go out, for we could not accommodate all who came. Then we placed benches outside, and still many had to stand. Once, after talking a little while, I requested those in the audience to stand who desired to be saved. More than two thirds thus manifested such a desire. We shall continue these meetings as long as possible.

During the day we are holding children's meetings. About one hundred attend regularly, and through them we hope to find some pearls. Many of them are asking us to visit their homes. This shows that the little ones are interested in the message.

The whole city seems aroused. Wherever we go, young and old salute us, and often some are teaching to others what they have heard in the tent. But our enemy is working, by various means, especially through one of the daily papers

of the city, which criticizes and ridicules our work. However, the audience increases rather than decreases.

Last week I went to a hill village, leaving the tent work to Elder W. J. Burden and Brother T. H. Okohira. Two young men accompanied me. It was at the time of a great festival of the gods. Thousands of people were moving on the street, following the ornamental car. As soon as we went in with our magic lantern, many people came to listen. Some tried to disturb the meeting. But I did not stop, or pay any attention to them, and finally they left the place. At the close of the meeting we sold our literature, and in a few minutes all the books and tracts were disposed of. This shows that God has gone before us to work on the hearts of the people, so they will listen to the truth for these last days.

At another time I went in another direction, with Elder Burden, and we had the same experience. The Spirit of the Lord is going to and fro, to finish up this great work of salvation in Japan. Our people are awakening, and are of good courage. We thank the Lord that he is holding back the power which opposes our message. We all wish to be found faithful servants when our Redeemer comes in glory with his reward.

Tokyo.