British Central Africa by Thomas H. Branch

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 16, 1906

British Central Africa

By Thomas H. Branch

PLAINFIELD MISSION, CHOLO.—As we read how the message of mercy is finding a hold in the far-away places of the earth, and how small companies of Sabbath-keepers are being raised up here and there, in places we knew not of, we know this is the Lord’s doing, and with the reports of troubles, of earthquakes, of accidents on railroads, and of the many lives that are being destroyed thereby, also of the destruction of life by famine and war, it plainly shows us that the Lord is at the door.

I am anxious about all the work in Africa; for a strong force is needed to carry the truth into regions beyond. This great field has scarcely been touched with this warning message. How I long for power to do more! But I am sure that God’s word is true, and not one of his promises fail. He has promised to put his Spirit upon young men of every kindred, tribe, and tongue, and fit them to go forward with this message. To this end we are laboring and praying, that erelong in this dark spot there will be a strong force of young men to work for the Master.

I think our crops this year are the very best we ever had. The yield of corn was good, also of the beans, peanuts, and sweet potatoes. There is plenty to feed our schoolboys, and we have quite a little for the market. We have a boarding-school for the boys. While it takes a little more of some things, such as beans, salt, and other things for relish, I find it much cheaper, and a great deal more satisfactory. Everything is moving on well. Of course now and then a boy goes away. But we have some excellent boys, who have been with us several years. They are advancing slowly, step by step. These people do not learn fast; but, considering that they are just beginning to see the light of day, and of better things, we think their progress remarkable. I am now instructing them in church organization daily, and when they understand the principles well, we wish to organize a church. Many of the boys are now paying tithes; and they respond well to the offerings which we take once a month in the Sabbath-school. All do not as yet see their duty in this matter, but I think they will soon.

The attendance and interest in the school work are very good. The work in general at the mission is encouraging. But more laborers are needed, and we are praying for the God of the harvest to send them, and send them quickly; for the field is white to the harvest, and much will be lost if we delay too long.

We have received some financial aid from some dear brethren, for the support of native workers. We certainly appreciate this effort, for it helps so much. We have received a letter from Elder Hyatt, telling us that the native boy, Peter Nyambo, who has been in London studying for the past three years, is to start for home soon, and is to help us here at the mission. For this we are very glad, for we are much in need of help.

Sometimes I think I shall be glad when this battle is over, and God’s people are gathered home, to sing of the redeeming love of Christ. But when I look around, and see so many wanderers in the darkness, I know that they will have no part with the saved, so I pray for God to give me grace to labor on until his will is done. We ask your prayers, that we may have wisdom from God to labor on.

THOMAS H. BRANCH.