p. 86 | Bridgewater, Me by J. B. Goodrich; W. H. Blaisdell

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Aug 27, 1872

Bridgewater, Me.

By J. B. Goodrich; W. H. Blaisdell

WE closed our meetings in this place yesterday, Aug. 11, after having remained here six weeks. The interest seemed to increase steadily until our meetings were brought to a close. Our last meetings were very solemn and impressive. The Spirit of the Lord in a special manner seemed to rest down upon us. In our very last meeting, some decided to obey the truth and become commandment-keepers. We feel that the Lord has especially blessed our feeble and unworthy efforts, and to him be all the glory. Many who at first were prejudiced against us are now rejoicing in the truth.

While it became more and more evident from week to week that God was at work in this place, it could be plainly seen that Satan was at work also. Threats and attempts were made to cut down our tent by night, and we think that God especially guided and protected us, or it would have been done. It seemed that the Lord had raised up for us strong and faithful friends who were ready to stand by us in these hours of trial, for which we feel truly thankful. It appeared that this mob-like spirit, thus manifested toward us, was fostered, cherished, and helped along, by some persons who make high professions of godliness, and who should have been the first to have cast their influence in favor of law and order.

But, notwithstanding all the efforts of Satan against us, our meetings were generally characterized by good order and solemnity; and much credit is due the magistrate in this place for his timely advice and earnest efforts to maintain good order, and for granting us the privilege of worshiping God according to the dictates of our own conscience; and we are happy to say that he and his wife are now rejoicing in the truths of the third angel’s message.

About forty have decided to keep the Sabbath since we pitched the tent in this place. Others are convinced that we have the truth, and we hope that they will soon take up the cross and be numbered among the commandment-keepers.

Yesterday, three willing candidates went forward in the ordinance of baptism, and we hope to see others follow soon. We have established a Sabbath-school and meeting in this place, and the necessary officers have been chosen. It seems that the work is not yet done here, and we should not feel like leaving now, were it not for the fact that our coming State Conference and camp-meeting are so near at hand.

May the Lord bless these dear brethren and sisters who have so nobly taken their stand on the side of truth, and may they succeed in the work of overcoming, and finally receive the crown of glory that fadeth not away.

J. B. GOODRICH, W. H. BLAISDELL.

Bridgewater, Me., Aug. 12, 1872.