p. 54 | Michigan by H. S. GURNEY

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 30, 1872

Michigan.

By H. S. GURNEY

June 29, met with the church at Holly. Brethren and sisters here are quite scattered in different directions, but the most of them came together, and we had a good meeting at Bro. Lockwood’s house. Bro. Potter met with us here and organized a Tract Society. A church whose members are scattered are better situated for doing good with tracts than living together, if each member will be active.

This organized plan looks very encouraging to me. It is a powerful arm, which may be used for very great good. Eternity alone will tell the full amount of good accomplished through this systematic circulation of tracts. But a little monthly might tell some of it here to the very great encouragement of the many workers.

Eld. Nobles, a Christian minister of Holly, met with us at this meeting and stayed while we celebrated the ordinances, and during a social meeting. He spoke very favorably and affectionately, and bade us God speed. I think there is a gathering influence in this church, but they very much need strength sufficient to build a meeting-house. I see no reason why a tent effort there would not add to the strength sufficiently to do this with the blessing of God.

July 6, at Byron. Held meetings in Bro. H. A. Teril’s barn. This meeting was for the Gaines church. There was quite a general turnout, and some from Leighton. Found some here striving to live in the best light they have; others are discouraged somewhat, and need help. I tried to point them to the only true source of light and help, and encourage them to look up and lift up the head. I here formed a partial acquaintance with Bro. Hardy and his family. I found him very low in spiritual interest, and in need of help. I labored until I think I understand his case. God blessed in the effort, and I have strong hopes that he will yet take his place in the church. If he follows his convictions of duty, God will bless him and lead him into light and liberty.

July 13 and 14, at Wright. Spoke three times and attended two social meetings. The word of the Lord seemed to have free course, and the church were much encouraged.

In this place and in other places, I hear some talk that the erring should be dealt with very promptly. Well, I think this is right. But I suggest that the church do not pass an iron resolution, but one that will entwine round the hearts of the erring and lead them back to the fold. We were sinners when Christ died for us. He says, “Go in peace and sin no more.” His Spirit in our hearts will lead us to weep over the erring. H. S. GURNEY.