New York City by E. E. Franke

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 24, 1903

New York City

By E. E. Franke

THE work in this city (Manhattan District) is progressing as never before. Perfect unity exists in the churches, and all have a desire to do what they can for the advancement of the work.

A union meeting was held in the First Church, Jan. 24, 1903. The different churches in the city were well represented, and the church was crowded to its utmost capacity. A good spirit prevailed. Part of the time was devoted to the consideration of the Sabbath-school work. Brother S. N. Curtiss, our conference Sabbath-school secretary, presided at this part of the meeting. Interesting papers were read on various topics by the members of the different churches, after which an opportunity was given for questions and interchange of thought.

The meeting was so successful that I have appointed another general meeting for Feb. 21, 1903, when papers will be read on the following subjects: General City Missionary Work, Foreign Missionary Work, The Spirit of Prophecy, The Tithe, Special Offerings, Church Schools, The Gospel of Health, and many other subjects. This is to be an all-day meeting, and those who come from down-town will bring their lunches with them. The meeting opens at 9:30 A. M., and after several sessions closes at sunset.

The work in Carnegie Lyceum is progressing as never before. The straight, pointed truths are doing their work. We have already presented the message in all its bearings, including the spirit of prophecy and kindred subjects. God has greatly blessed our work, and we expect to see many souls accept the truth as a result. Even now we see fruits of our labors.

A number have recently begun to attend our Sabbath meetings in the different churches. About eight weeks ago the colored people who had accepted the truth through the mission conducted by Elder S. N. Haskell, were organized into a church by Elder H. W. Cottrell and the writer. Six members joined. The next Sabbath five others joined the church; two of these, however, were Sabbath-keepers from other churches; nine had accepted the message through the labor of Brother Uchtman and the mission workers. We found the work among the colored people to be almost at a standstill, and in great danger of disorganization; hence we thought that it was advisable to ask Brother C. H. Carroll, who accepted the truth in this city four years ago at our tent effort, and who came to us from the Roman Catholic Church, to connect himself with this work.

Brother Carroll's labor has proved successful beyond our most ardent expectations. In the few weeks that he has been working for the conference a large interest has been aroused, and his time is all occupied in visiting, holding Bible readings, and preaching. He has gained admission to the Methodist and Baptist colored churches, and as a result of his labors thus far, seven souls have accepted the truth and united with the church, among them an ordained Baptist minister. Many others are interested, and the prospects for the work among the colored people in this city are much brighter.

A night-school has been started for the colored people, and some of the brethren and sisters of the Second Church are giving instructions in reading, writing, Bible, history, grammar, and other studies. A young people's society has been started also, and is making good progress. It is our intention to open a church school as soon as possible. No part of the work is to be neglected. I feel thankful for the support that I am receiving from the members of the different churches. The work in New York City is rising to the praise and glory of God.

E. E. FRANKE. Superintendent of Manhattan Dist., Greater New York Conf.