p. 78 | JAMES ERTZENBERGER by James Ertzenberger

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 20, 1872

JAMES ERTZENBERGER

By James Ertzenberger

Switzerland.

Since my note of December 25, I have continued lecturing at this place, as well as at the other one named near by. During the second week of January I was obliged to suspend on account of prayer meetings, which were held every evening from the 7th to the 14th of this month.

Recommenced lecturing January 15. And although there existed some discouraging circumstances on that evening, the congregation was even larger than it had ever been before, and has increased every time since, so that the number is now double. Instead of eighty persons, I have now at this place one hundred and sixty, and at the other, instead of one hundred listeners, two hundred; and all are very attentive to the word spoken.

It is indeed encouraging to see these, although I have not yet tested them on the Sabbath question. That question will be treated next week. However, I believe there will be a considerable number still to hear the word.

I can but see the hand of God, and do firmly believe the Lord is in the work. Worldlings, who were very indifferent to the word, are becoming interested in the truth. The neglected Bible is taken up to be studied and searched. Slumbering ones are becoming aroused, and even pastors of the National church try to speak the word more earnestly.

The devil, too, is trying his might and influence. I shall continue lecturing at both places as long as the interest may demand, or permission may be granted to occupy the Colleges. May the Lord help in all things. May dying souls be turned to him. And may great good be accomplished. I hope and pray you to remember me and the work in Switzerland, in your prayers.

Yours with much love,

JAMES ERTZENBERGER

Chaux de fonds, (Neuchatel), Jan. 23, 1872.