MICHIGAN

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 13, 1879

Wayland and Saranac.—At the former of these places I commenced a series of meetings Feb. 26, which continued until March 3. The weather was very unfavorable, and having taken a very severe cold I was interrupted in my labors a portion of the time. Notwithstanding these discouraging circumstances, the meetings, I believe, were of great value to the church. Heretofore they have met in a school-house, which, being removed from the railroad, was difficult of access; but while I was with them they decided to hire a hall in the village of Wayland, where they are to hold regular Sabbath services hereafter. This was a movement in the right direction. If we reach the people, we must go where they are.

Another good step was taken in the complete organization of a Sabbath-school. And still another in the raising of a club of ten each for the Instructor and Signs of the Times. Bro. Alex Carpenter, the director of the district, was present at these meetings and rendered valuable aid.

From the 3d to the 7th of March I was at Saranac, where, in conjunction with S. H. King and F. Howe, we adjusted some perplexing matters of business in such a way as we trust will prove to be for the glory of God and the good of the church. The brethren and sisters in this place are few in number, but if harmony shall prevail, I see no reason why their numbers may not be increased. W. H. LITTLEJOHN.

St. Charles.—I commenced labor here Feb. 8, and still continue the effort. Found this church in a very indifferent condition, but by the blessing of God and a persevering effort, there has been a general awakening. About twenty have made a start in the service of the Lord; among these is a brother who had fully given up the truth. His starting again to obey the truth gave great joy to all the church.

At a business meeting the tithing plan was cheerfully adopted by nearly all, and a club of fifty Signs was taken.

This church has one of the best Sabbath-schools I have seen in Michigan; they have adopted the S. S. contribution box, and it proves a success in their school. E. R. JONES.

Koylton, Tuscola Co.—I commenced meetings here Jan. 19. From the first the opposition has been very bitter. Tar, feathers, and a rail were publicly threatened. This was a step too far, and the better class became indignant over the matter. As the result, the Free-will Baptist church, the leading church in the vicinity, have lost their deacon and some of their best members, while many others are deciding on the truth.

The little church at Elmwood united with us in our cry to God for help. May they not lose their reward. WM. OSTRANDER.

Dist. No. 13.—Bro. Wm. H. Mills, director of Dist. No. 13, reports meetings held at Dryden and Imlay City during the latter part of December. At Imlay City all adopted the tithing system and the added one-third, and at Dryden nearly all adopted the tithing system, and some the one-third. At Dryden one commenced to keep the Sabbath. The business meeting here was of special interest, on account of the zeal and the spirit of self-sacrifice manifested by the members of this church. They were greatly interested in one of Sister White’s books, “Experience and Views,” which Bro. M. had with him, and read it with the deepest interest.

At Dryden a tract society was organized, and all entered heartily into the work. One copy of “Bible from Heaven” was sold, and one subscription was obtained for the REVIEW. Subsequent visits to this church show that they are trying to benefit others with the light they have received.