Kenyon, Goodhue Co., Minn.
By H. F. Phelps
THIS is a small prairie settlement of farmers, of perhaps a dozen families, somewhat scattered. At the time of our last report, Bro. Ellis had been here twenty-five days, and had given twenty-three discourses, on the theory of the truth. Nearly all seemed convinced; but one appeared willing to move. When these meetings commenced, the roads were very much drifted, and it was very cold, so that but few (fifteen to twenty) could come out. But these were quite steady listeners. And when we joined Bro. Ellis, and resumed the meetings, they were all willing to come. Our meetings commenced the evening of the 12th of March, and for about two weeks, we held them nearly every evening. Our subjects were nearly all of a practical nature, and as the meetings progressed, the Lord helping us much, it was evident that the Spirit of God was at work upon the hearts of the people. We never enjoyed more of the Spirit of God than in some of these meetings. The power of God's truth was melting its way to the heart of the sinner. The second evening that we called for those to rise who wished an interest in our prayers, nearly all arose. Soon, ten commenced to keep the Sabbath. Six of these never made a profession before. The 26th, we were agreeably surprised to see Bro. Grant. He stayed with us one night, and cheered us all by his testimony.175The next day I started with him for Pine Island. Bro. E. remained to carry on the meetings here. At P. I. we enjoyed a good meeting. On account of bad roads and a severe storm on sixth-day, we could not circulate the appointment much; but we enjoyed the meeting, as also the counsel of Bro. Grant in regard to our Bible-class and Sabbath-school, which I believe, if carried out, will add to the interest of each. On Monday, we separated, Bro. G. to go on his way visiting the brethren, and I to return to K. I am thankful for the advice and counsel of Bro. G., and will try to be a workman that needeth not to be ashamed. Remained in K. about ten days more, holding meetings, visiting from house to house, encouraging and helping to erect the family altar, doing all we could (hope we did no harm) to establish these dear souls in the truth. Two families of our brethren have lived here for some nine years, praying on, sometimes in darkness, now in the light. Now, instead of four, there are fourteen, besides children. A few others are convicted. May the Lord help them to move before it is too late. We believe these people mean work. They all are beginning to take part in the prayer-meetings. They seem determined to overcome. We organized a Bible-class and Sabbath-school. Obtained subscribers for the REVIEW, 2; Instructor, 4; Reformer, 2. Sold about $10 dollars' worth of books, and gave away a few. The way seems to be opening before us. The people of Kenyon village, six miles north-west, seem anxious to hear. They are inquiring when we can come. Expect to commence there between the 10th and 15th of May. Brethren, pray that the Lord may give us success, and that souls may be saved.
H. F. PHELPS,