South Africa by D. F. Starr

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · May 5, 1904

South Africa

By D. F. Starr

BROTHER MOKO and I have for some time past been making special efforts to bring the truth before the natives and colored people in and about East London. As a result, nine precious souls have decided to obey, and are now rejoicing in the hope of Christ’s soon coming. Some of these are the leading colored people in the place, and were the most prominent members of the church to which they belonged.

The acceptance of the truth has been no small matter to these dear people. Some have lost their situations, and thus been brought into straitened circumstances. Others are meeting with bitter opposition in their homes. One sister has been violently treated by her husband, who has also threatened to drive her away if she persists in keeping the Sabbath and attending our meetings. Yet they all seem determined to do right, and leave the consequences with God.

At the open-air services it is inspiring to see the crowds that gather round us,—usually between three and four hundred being present,—and it is very encouraging to note the rapt attention paid and to the word spoken.

At our last Sunday evening meeting, when opportunity was given to those who desired to give their hearts to the Lord to make it manifest, about fifty responded. We realize that these people are precious in the sight of the Lord, so we are very anxious to do all we can to bring them to the Saviour. Since taking up the native work, we are looked upon with more favor by some prominent gospel workers in this place who at first thought that our object in being here was to antagonize their work.

Brethren Shone and William Haupt are now connected with us in the work, and are having excellent success in taking subscriptions for the Sentinel and Journal of Health. Elder Hankins, the president of the conference, is expected in a few days, when we hope to begin a public effort in East London. We earnestly desire the prayers of God’s people that the work here may be established upon a firm basis.

D. F. STARR.