South Africa by A. W. Kuehl

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Aug 25, 1904

South Africa

By A. W. Kuehl

JOHANNESBURG.—We have spent a little over a year in this field. The mines are the chief dependence of the people, hence the population is shifting. The chief aim of the majority of the people is to gain wealth. They are not here to make homes and build up the country. Just at present we are holding a tent effort in one of the suburbs. The tent is pitched in a valley between the rocky, barren hills. We are having our cool, dry season, and are heating the tent with a coal stove. Our company of workers is small, consisting of Elder Edmed, president of the Natal-Transvaal Conference; Sister Webster, a Battle Creek trained nurse; two young workers, Brother Robinson and Sister Keet; the writer and his wife. We are holding four evening meetings each week. We have a fair attendance during the week, and a good attendance on Sunday evening. A few have decided for the truth, and a goodly number are interested. Some are having quite a struggle, but we earnestly pray that they may have grace to stand for principle.

We have no trained Bible reader, so each member of the company does what he can. Sister Webster's medical work is much appreciated. She has fifteen patients at present. Her work is self-supporting.

In addition to her treatments, she holds five Bible readings each week, and gives much valuable help in visiting. Sister Keet is taking hold of the Bible work nicely. She has been in the truth only about seven months. We are glad to see the young people here engaging in the work. It is much easier for Colonial people to work here than for foreigners. Brother Robinson is assisting at the tent, and canvassing for “Great Controversy.” Mrs. Kuehl holds children's meeting each Sunday afternoon at 3 P. M. We have an average attendance of sixty children. She also assists in giving Bible readings and visiting. Elder Edmed was called home this week by serious illness in his family.

We have one German meeting each week. There are a few Germans here who understand very little or no English. We feel encouraged in our work, although we never before met so many discouragements as we have had here. We felt sure if we held on, the Lord would give us the victory, and he is now turning the captivity of his people. We know that our brethren in the home land will remember us at the throne of grace. A. W. KUEHL.