p. 17 | Spain by Frank S. Bond

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 18, 1909

Spain

By Frank S. Bond

WITH my wife and little boy I came last Monday to Rubielos de Mora, which is situated in the mountains of ancient Aragon. About seventy miles of our journey was by train, and from the railway to the town requires nearly three hours by stage.

We are at the home of one of our brethren who began to obey the truth about three or four months ago in Barcelona. His wife began to walk in the light several months before. I am glad to report that they are faithful to the message, including health reform. They were anxious that we should come and hold meetings in their home. The brother’s parents are convinced of the Sabbath truth, and are trying to obey it. They are not, however, walking in all the light. We have now held three meetings, and an excellent interest has been manifested. Without permission from the city or town officials, we are, according to Spanish law, subject to fine, if more than nineteen persons are in attendance at our meetings.

Day before yesterday I presented to the town mayor a formal written application for permission to hold meetings here. He has not yet given me an answer. Rev. 12:17 is being literally fulfilled in this town. The priests are determined to drive us away, and for two days our brother’s house has been bombarded by a stone brigade made up of boys and girls ranging from about five to fifteen years of age. Yesterday evening two large holes were made in one panel of the entrance door. During the siege a constant war-cry is kept up. The priest taught the children this song:—

“Away, away, Protestants, Away from the nation; For we wish to be lovers Of the sacred heart. Let the virgin live!”

Some of the stones which came thundering against our doors were several inches in diameter, one of them being almost as large as a man’s head.

At one time I ventured onto the veranda, to see how many were taking part in the demonstration. I counted about ninety. As we sat and listened to the storm of stones against our house, we felt no fear. That precious promise, “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them,” is dear to our hearts. We are thankful that our Saviour has promised, “Lo, I am with you all the days, even unto the end of the world.” We are grateful for a part in this blessed work. We long to see more laborers sent into this, one of the darkest of nations, and we hope and pray that plans may soon be formed whereby this may be realized.

This is a mountainous country, and as much snow has fallen near this place during the past few days, we are having quite cold weather. By hovering over the old-fashioned fireplace, we keep comfortably warm. Our courage is good, and we are glad to be used in the Master’s work.

FRANK S. BOND.