Trinidad by W. A. Sweany; Mrs. Fannie Sweany

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Aug 4, 1904

Trinidad

By W. A. Sweany; Mrs. Fannie Sweany

WE have just returned home from our good conference in Barbados, which was an important event in the history of the message in the West Indies. Public services were held in the opera-house (the largest hall on the island) each evening and Sunday afternoon during the conference, which lasted a fortnight. The house was packed to the doors at every service, and the deepest interest and attention was manifested, as the message was presented in the power of the Spirit, by the various conference laborers. The very best class of people attended in large numbers. Ten were baptized, and as many more made a start. Hundreds are interested and deeply stirred, many being under conviction and almost persuaded. The study, devotional, and business sessions were held in our own church, during the day.

Doubtless the proceedings will be fully reported by others, so I will only say that, despite the vast extent and difficult nature of our field, and our meager force of laborers, we were enabled to lay plans to hold the ground already occupied, and also open up the work among the Dutch, French, Spanish, and aboriginal peoples within our borders. Plans were also laid for strengthening and enlarging the educational and publishing work.

The work here in Arima is encouraging. About twelve began to obey the message during the tent-meetings, which we closed in order to attend the conference. These seem to be faithful, and are growing in grace. The interest is still good. We are continuing the work in a hall until such time as we shall be able to build a house of worship, which is an absolute necessity to the permanent establishment of the work in this field.

We have thus far been alone, save for the help of a native canvasser, who cared for the tent. When we think of tent companies in the States, with from six to twelve workers, we feel that the force is not evenly divided. We also have eight churches and companies to visit and care for. However, we are of good courage, and with God's help, will hold the advance line, and continue to push it forward till complete victory is achieved. But we do need help, both men and means.

Could all our people but see, and feel, and realize the world's need as do those in the regions beyond, they would arouse and give, send and go, and soon the work would be done. We need and solicit your prayers.

W. A. SWEANY, MRS. FANNIE SWEANY.