Central America by H. C. Goodrich

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 29, 1902

Central America

By H. C. Goodrich

JONESVILLE, RUATAN.—I have now been here nine days. The interest seems to be very good, and four have begun observing the Sabbath. All of these are new conversions. Three of them are just now struggling with the tobacco habit,—one, an old lady of seventy years. Others seem interested. Many of the people of Jonesville have a good knowledge of the truth. Many years ago a Brother Gibbs, a canvasser, visited these islands, sold many books, and a few are keeping the Sabbath as a result. Later, a Sister Gerthrung, of California, visited her sister at French Harbor, and she and one or two others began keeping the Sabbath. Then Elder Hutchins came. There are a number who know the truth, but have never kept it. It is these who are now receiving the Word in their hearts. Coffee, tobacco, and rum have held this people in chains for years. Now some are going free.

The Bonacca school, with a strict discipline, has decreased in the number of pupils from sixty to forty. These are all good students, and a better spiritual influence prevails in the school.

I have accepted an invitation to preach in a neighborhood two miles west. Have had one meeting. The interest seems fairly good.

God's power to save has been very manifest here, and his presence is precious. I trust him for still greater results.

H. C. GOODRICH.