R. J. LAWRENCE*, President of the Conf
By R. J. Lawrence
To the Churches and Scattered Friends in the Mo. and Kan. Conference.
Dear Brethren: One quarter of the Conference year has passed away. How much have we done to build up the cause among us? and have we redeemed our pledges? Have we a conscience void of offense toward God in this respect? According to the established rules of our people, the ministers are to make their reports quarterly; also the clerk of the churches to the Secretary of the State Conference, T. J. Butler, Halfrock, Mercer Co., Mo. And the systematic Treasurers and scattered brethren make their reports and remittances to the State Conference Treasurer, J. H. Rogers, Alta Vista, Daviess Co., Mo. Come, brethren, let us be prompt and energetic. We have a great work before us. We have two tents in the field, quite well manned, and we hope much will be accomplished by them this season. It requires considerable means to defray the expense of running the tents, therefore we should put to our united effort. Some may think because the tent is not in their locality, they ought not to assist in the expense. Brethren, it cannot be in all places at once; and as it is here, it cannot be in your place. Then let us use our means, accompanied by our prayers, and wait an opening Providence for our locality. I have received more calls from different parts of the field, from brethren who have moved from other States, and wish to be organized, than it will be possible for me to fill. I would suggest that after the close of tent season Bro. Blanchard visit Rockville, Bates Co., Mo., and those places in Southern Kansas, and I will look after those in Northern Kansas and Missouri. Where are our licentiates? We hear nothing from them. My dear brethren, the field is a large one. Calls are numerous. The fields are white, the laborers are few. Oh! let us not be dilatory in so important a work, but put on courage, gird on the gospel armor, take the sword of the Spirit, and go out among the King's enemies. But be sure that you have the Spirit, with which to effectually wield the sword. Come, brethren, ministers, licentiates, churches, and scattered brethren, let us take hold of this work with undivided interest, putting our energies to the work, praying earnestly to the Lord for divine aid, for we have but little time to work. The end is near, and hasteth greatly. R. J. LAWRENCE*, President of the Conf