Ohio by H. Hodgson

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 4, 1871

Ohio.

By H. Hodgson

Soon after the camp-meeting in this State, I was requested to hold a few meetings in the city of Fremont on the east side of the river. A number became interested in the truth. Three commenced keeping the Sabbath. A number more are convinced of the truth, but do not see how they can live it out on account of their situation in business. May they be wise, and decide to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.

Dec. 25, 1870, commenced meetings in Wood Co., in a school-house known as the Kiser school-house. This place is eighteen miles west of Fremont, and twelve miles east of Portage. The people seemed very desirous of hearing the truth, and nearly filled the house each evening. I continued meetings two weeks, spoke each evening, and visited during the daytime. Some commenced keeping the Sabbath. I established Sabbath meetings in this place, promising, when I left, to return soon. I was prevented on account of sickness, and did not return until March 10. Then I found the brethren and sisters had kept up their Sabbath meetings, and the interest remained good. I spoke four times during Sabbath and first-day, making fourteen public discourses in all.

There was a large attendance the last evening, although it was very dark and the roads were very muddy. I stayed four days, and visited in the neighborhood. Found the people much interested, and reading and investigating the subjects of present truth. There are seven that have manifested a desire to live out the whole truth. Two of these that are keeping the Sabbath are heads of families. Both of these have subscribed for the REVIEW. Much more good might have been done if I could have had books, but I had none of any account. Sister Gardiner sent one dollar for tracts the first week I was there, and now they send $3.00 for books and tracts for themselves and neighbors. May the Lord bless them for the interest they manifest in trying to present the truth before the people.

The enemy tried to raise some dust by sending a man who professed to be an Advent teacher, but said he agreed with none of the Adventists. His ideas were so confused the people were disgusted with his talk. If this man, together with some others who profess to be Adventists, would pray more and teach less, it might be better for themselves and quite as instructive to those they attempt to teach.

I had freedom in endeavoring to present the truth before the people, and I trust the Lord blessed my feeble efforts so that much good has been done in this place. May they live out the truth faithfully until the end, and finally be gathered with the redeemed of the Lord, is my prayer. H. HODGSON.