Northeastern Jamaica by Hubert Fletcher

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Nov 19, 1903

Northeastern Jamaica

By Hubert Fletcher

We are glad to report progress in the work in this field. We have about one hundred and forty baptized Sabbath-keepers. These are distributed among three organized churches and two companies. We had four church buildings; but three were destroyed in the recent cyclone which swept over this part of the island, causing much loss to life and property. Since, one has been rebuilt (the Johns Hall), and we are gathering materials for the others. Last week in my visit to Sherwood Forest plans were laid for the brethren to get out the rest of their materials. August 9 the Johns Hall church was organized, with a membership of fourteen, and the necessary officers were also elected.

I am kept very busy in the building and rebuilding of churches, general evangelical work, and holding meetings in new places. We have two new Sabbath-keepers at Fairfield, where I held meetings last year. These will unite with the Moore Park company. Two weeks ago a young man came to me after our meeting in the church at Swift River, and expressed his desire to unite with us. Our brethren at this place are doing a good work among the people of this and other districts with tracts and periodicals. One young brother is selling forty-eight copies of the Caribbean Watchman (our West Indian paper), and as a result reports of interests are coming from many places.

I am holding open-air meetings at Shrewsbury, five miles from Swift River. On Sunday our meeting was appointed to begin at 2 P. M. Our stand was near the Baptist meeting-house. On arriving, we found the minister opening a meeting for “enquirers,” so we attended,

after which the people brought the benches to our stand. Some sitting on the benches, others on the grass, in the open field under the canopy of heaven, to which they listened with rapt attention while we broke to them the bread of life. I could see on the faces of many a deep interest as the signs of Matthew 24 were presented. Several are earnestly inquiring after the truth, and I believe there are sheaves to be gathered there. We sow the seed, the Lord gives the increase. I rejoice for a part in this work. I can see the power of the message working on the hearts of the people. The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few. HUBERT FLETCHER.