Wathena, Kansas by R. J. Lawrence; T. J. Butler

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

Wathena, Kansas.

By R. J. Lawrence; T. J. Butler

WE commenced meetings in this place July 12. Our congregations have ranged from fifty to four hundred. We have had no disturbance to speak of, outside or inside of the tent, but good attention has been paid throughout. But the people seemed to be suspicious that there was something hid, so they watched to see it develop. They could find no real fault with what they heard. It was according to the Bible.

Finally, an Eld. Finney, Disciple, a nephew of Prof. Finney, of Oberlin College, heard us on the change of the Sabbath, and challenged for a debate. The challenge was accepted, and the question discussed three days, having two sessions of two hours each day.

At the close of this debate, several took a stand on the Sabbath, and the interest increased to the close. On Thursday P. M. of last week, we had a meeting for the purpose of ascertaining how many would covenant to keep the Sabbath, and hold Sabbath meetings. Twenty-nine names were given in, and the list has since been increased to thirty-five.

Last Sunday, eight were baptized, and three more on Monday morning. This includes those that embraced the truth last spring at Palermo, and west of that place.

One week ago, we were invited to go to Burr Oak Bottom, twelve miles north, where we spoke five times, returning Tuesday. Four decided to keep the Sabbath, and a deep interest was left on the minds of the people.

We closed our meetings here last Sunday evening, took down the tent yesterday, and shipped it for Half Rock, Mercer Co., Mo., near where Bro. T. J. Butler lives. He has gone to make preparations, and pitch the tent in that place. I remain here one week before joining him there.

Bro. Chaffee has been with us in this meeting. He spoke once, and helped much in singing and taking care of the tent.

We gave thirty-five lectures, besides the debate, and five north. Sold twenty-three dollars' worth of books, and gave away quite a quantity. Got six subscribers for the Reformer four months, and five subscribers for the REVIEW. The interest was at the highest point when we closed. I intend to spend the week in visiting and helping to secure a place to hold meetings. Times are hard here. Wheat crop an entire failure, money scarce. Books sell slow. Many more would take the paper if they had money.

Brethren, pray for us, and for this large young Conference, and that the truth may prosper in our hands.

R. J. LAWRENCE, T. J. BUTLER.

Wathena, Aug. 20, 1872.