p. 18 | ERNESTO SCHWANTES by Ernesto Schwantes

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Nov 8, 1906

ERNESTO SCHWANTES

By Ernesto Schwantes

Portugal

LISBON.—The first fruit of our labor among the Portuguese is an intelligent young married man, a Protestant. He came every evening for Bible studies at my home. I hope that he will become an efficient Bible worker. We expect in a few days to baptize him, and also the English sister, Mrs. Portugal. The baptismal service will be on the ocean beach.

We learn from Christ’s parable of the lost sheep how much it costs to win a soul; therefore, I am thankful to the Lord for these souls—as thankful, I think, as if twenty had accepted the truth in Brazil, my former field of labor. We hope soon to see other souls following in the truth.

Two nieces of our Sister Portugal are very much interested in studying the truth. One of them has been attending our Sabbath-school, and studying with the greatest earnestness. Last Sabbath the father of these young ladies visited us just after the Sabbath-school. We studied the Word with him for an hour, and the Lord touched his heart, and many times his eyes filled with tears. He is a well-educated Portuguese. He expressed his thankfulness for what he had learned, and said that he would not hold his daughters back, but would leave them perfectly free to decide for themselves.

Thus it was for us a Sabbath of great blessing, and joy filled our hearts for the abundant grace of the Lord with us. It is wonderful how he hears prayer, and how, for the salvation of those whom he has chosen, he will use even weak witnesses to accomplish his purpose. I have had many other visits with interested persons, who are giving attention to the matter of salvation.

I shall shortly leave Lisbon for Oporto, where we will seek to plant the standard of truth. Brother Rentfro will remain in Lisbon. Pray for us and the work here in Portugal.