Porto Rico

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 16, 1902

So much has been said in regard to the needs of this field, that we question what more can be said to touch the hearts of the brethren and sisters in the home field, and present our special need before them at this particular time. It is true that our field is not so large as some others, but the work before us is greater, owing to the difficulties with which we have to contend. With an area of 3,606 square miles, and a population of over 954,000, with the majority of the people crowded into the towns and villages, a grand work is opened to the faithful worker for Christ.

The enemy has tried hard to hinder the entering of the third angel's message into this needy field. When the work was first begun, because of failing health the worker was forced to leave the field, death claimed another, and at the present time there is only one worker for that whole field. Wherever we go, the people manifest an interest in our work, and listen to the truths presented. Homes are opened to us among the rich and educated, as well as among the poor and ignorant.

At the present time the work is being carried on with the greatest difficulty, owing to a lack of knowledge of the Spanish language. Great perseverance

are needed in reaching the people with the truths for this time. Our most pressing need is a Spanish worker to step in and fill these openings. The message must go to this people, and now is a favorable time for us to work in Porto Rico. Under our home government, to a certain extent, and with but few restrictions from a religious view, we can enter upon our work with almost perfect freedom.

A vast field is opened before the medical missionary. Only those who are here can realize the need of this branch of work. In fact, there is no department of our work but that appeals to us. It is impossible for one worker to fill the openings that are constantly presenting themselves. Almost every week some one comes to the house asking for some of our literature. Sometimes it looks as if the people were coming to us seeking for the truth, instead of our having to search for them. Surely, brethren and sisters, we cannot delay the work much longer. I am confident that there must be some upon whom God has rolled a burden for this needy field.

[Elder B. E. Connerly and his wife, of Buffalo, are to sail for Porto Rico next week to join Sister Fischer. We are sorry to hear of Sister Fischer's illness, in the midst of her labors, and pray that strength may be restored to her.—MISSION BOARD.]