Among the Churches in Kansas
By R. W. Parmele
ON account of severe illness with typhoid fever last summer, I was out of the work during the fall and winter. From January 20 to February 2 my wife (formerly Dr. Lydia E. Kynett) and I were with the church at Altoona. The doctor gave instruction in health principles, and I preached fifteen times to the church. Three were baptized, and we believe the church was encouraged. From February 2-26 we visited Topeka, Ozawkie, Pittsburg, and Ft. Scott. February 27 we arrived in Hutchinson to attend the missionary institute which had just begun. We remained in that city until April 7, holding evening services in our church with a good interest. During the first three weeks of the time Dr. Parmele gave instruction in the institute in the principles of healthful living, and I in Bible. In many respects this was the best institute that it has ever been my privilege to attend. About thirty men and women, ranging in age from eighteen to sixty, went from it to labor in the great harvest field. During the meeting twenty-one were added to the Hutchinson church, twelve of whom I baptized. We then visited Halstead, Newton, Elk City, and Humboldt. At all these places we enjoyed much of the Lord's blessing in laboring for souls. Three were baptized at Newton. April 28 we came to Ft. Scott, and began housekeeping in comfortable quarters, where the doctor could have an office in connection with our living rooms. Just two doors north of us we have a hall rented, located on the first floor, where we expect to hold our regular Sabbath meetings, and where my wife is at present conducting a school of health. The school is quite well attended by some of the best people in the city, and it is exerting an influence for good. June 5 we began a series of tent meetings on a vacant lot just south of our residence. The attendance has been good from the first, and the prospect is most encouraging. Last Sabbath I baptized two, who will unite with a church here as soon as an organization can be effected. Last night (Sunday, June 28) I spoke on "The Seal of God and the Mark of the Beast" to a congregation of about two hundred of the best people in the city. At the close of the discourse eight publicly promised for the first time that they would obey the truth that they had heard. During the winter four Bible workers have been engaged in the work here, and there is considerable fruit of their labor manifest. Our present force consists of four Bible workers, two canvassers, Brother V. W. Robb, who has charge of the singing, and also cares for the tent, Dr. Parmele, and myself. The permanency that our residing here gives has a good effect upon the people, and the medical work that the doctor is doing gives us influence not always enjoyed by our tent companies. But we realize that this is laying upon us added responsibility, and we are all seeking God for wisdom to be able to bear it. Brethren and sisters, will you not aid us by your prayers? R. W. PARMELE.