South Atlantic Mission.—Virginia.
By John O. Corliss
VIRGINIA.—I came to this State, February 8. A portion of the time since, I have been visiting, and trying to encourage those of our faith who are isolated, and deprived of church privileges. On my way to the “Northern Neck,” a narrow strip of land in northeastern Virginia, situated between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, I called on the little company of Sabbath-keepers near Baltimore, Md. By removals; it has been reduced to two families, but we found them of good courage, and still keeping up regular meetings each Sabbath. There seem to be many good openings for the presentation of the truth in that State, which we wish might soon be filled. On the “Northern Neck” there are also two families who faithfully and regularly meet for Sabbath worship. I stayed with them two days, presenting the dangers and duties of our time. They seemed much encouraged by the visit. They feel very lonely, however, and would welcome good Sabbath-keeping families who may feel disposed to purchase property, which may be secured at reasonable rates, and settle near them. I spent a day and a night at the hospitable home of Sister Hitchcock, in the city of Washington. There are a few others there who also love the truth, and try to live in accordance with it. They are anxiously looking and longing for the time when the message shall be fully preached in the metropolis of our nation. Much has already been done in that city by way of circulating our publications, and some seem interested to hear, but we can only await the proper season for the desired effort there in behalf of the truth. At the good home of Brother Wright, in Fairfax Co., Va., I was glad to form an acquaintance with Brother and Sister Groff, formerly of New York. After a brief stay with them, I came to Shenandoah County one week before my appointment for the general meeting. I improved this time in holding meetings, and visiting among the friends in order to learn the wants of the cause. I found evident signs of a lack of experience, but an earnest desire on the part of all to improve. The weather at the time of our general meeting was fine, and the attendance good. The good Spirit of the Lord seemed very near, and the people were deeply moved by the straight testimony borne. I was much pleased at the progress some have made in the Christian life, yet I am persuaded that still greater progress can and will be made. After looking over the field and viewing the situation, it was decided to organize a Conference, to be known as the Virginia State Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The Constitution recommended by the General Conference, with such changes as will adapt it to this locality, was unanimously adopted. Brother A. C. Neff, of Quicksburg, was elected president, and ordained to the ministry. John P. Zirkle, of New Market, was chosen treasurer; L. D. Woods, of Quicksburg, secretary; and Walton Craig, of Mt. Jackson, and W. W. Stebbins, of Alma, members of the Conference committee. The Virginia Conference, though small, starts out with a fair prospect of success. Considering their past opportunities, the friends of the cause here have done well. The actual membership in the State is only about sixty, but we find more than as many others who have not yet united with the church, but keep the Sabbath, and are faithful in Christian duties. An effort will soon be made to help these isolated ones, that they may become fully identified with us. There is scarcely a Sabbath-keeping family in the State that does not enjoy the weekly visit of the Review, and love its teachings. The people connected with our work are nearly all poor, yet the tithes of the State average about seven dollars per year to each member of the church, quite a good many of whom are young people. Considering all things, I think this is a good showing, and we largely attribute it to the fact that all read the Review. In making the last statement, I would by no means ignore the efforts of those who have been laboring in this field. I believe their efforts have in a measure been blessed of God, and I also think their influence has had much to do in encouraging the people to subscribe for our periodicals. Two ordained ministers and two licentiates make up the corps of accredited laborers in this State. There is, however, room for many more to labor, and I ardently desire to see others enter the field, who will be willing to sacrifice for the truth's sake. A State T. and M. Society was organized, with a full corps of officers, according to the Constitution usually adopted in other States. I was glad to see the enthusiasm manifested on this occasion. A fund was subscribed to the amount of $61.00, for the purchase of material to work with, which, if I am not greatly disappointed, will give a new impetus to that branch of the work in this State. In my labor for the few weeks to come, I expect to see this fund materially enlarged. The Sabbath-school work was not overlooked in our meetings. A State organization was effected; a report of which will undoubtedly appear in due time in the Review. The brethren all left for home apparently much encouraged. I trust the meetings will in the Judgment prove to have been beneficial to the cause in the State of Virginia. There can be no doubt about it, if all concerned seek God earnestly for light and counsel, and discharge their duties in his fear. With desire and expectation I await developments.
J. O. CORLISS.