A Sabbath in Walla Walla, W. T.
By Adelia P. Van Horn
FAMILIAR scenes come to our minds as we see by appointment that the Michigan Camp-meeting and other most important annual meetings of our people are now in session. And as we cannot as usual enjoy the greetings of the occasion, the thought occurred that perhaps many of our friends who are interested in the Northern Pacific mission might like to hear how Sabbath, Aug. 8, passed with us. For some time our Sabbath meetings have been our most interesting meetings. On the day named we met in the large tent at 9:30, A. M., with Sabbath-school and Bible-class, which was organized several weeks since, in which there seemed to be a good interest. And at 11 A. M. husband spoke from these words in Rev. 14:5: “And in their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault before the throne of God.” Following the discourse the ordinance of baptism was administered to six more who wished to unite their interests with the church. We went to the water side; a hymn was sung and a prayer offered, and then one in the full strength of manhood stepped forward to be buried beneath the wave, who, after due consideration, now cherishes a firm purpose to walk in obedience to all the commandments of God. Next came a man with gray hairs and slow and trembling step, desiring to thus publicly unite himself to Christ ere the days of his probation should be numbered. Then followed one who has seen years of weariness and bereavement—a mother. She has seen much of this world, but counts all as dross when compared with the unspeakable riches of Christ. As she was led from the water the smile of joy that was upon her countenance gave evidence that the love of Christ was there. And when her youthful son—the only child left to her—took her arm for her support as she walked from the stream we could but pray that the lad might soon follow her example. Next came forward a young man who was happy in making the choice that was made by Moses of old. The pleasures of the world were at his command, but he has chosen to take heed unto his way according to God’s word. The next one that came forward was a young man, a soldier from the garrison. For weeks he has been earnestly seeking the Lord, and a few days since received bright evidence of sins forgiven. After being buried with Christ he arose exclaiming with upraised hands, “Dead to the world, and alive to thee, O my God!” And lastly came a child of twelve years whom none could forbid. In days to come may the recollection of her baptismal vows keep her from the snares of the world. Thus we saw the man of gray hairs, the middle-aged and the youth unite in this solemn ordinance, and the church are much pleased to receive them among their number. At 3:30 P. M. the members of the church assembled at a private residence to celebrate the ordinances of the Lord’s house for the first time. The experience was new to nearly all yet the ready cheerfulness with which they participated showed a disposition on their part to do all things which the Lord hath commanded. In the evening a discourse was given to a public congregation in the tent. Thus the day passed. We feel glad to see the cause of present truth gaining strength. For some time past a few have taken their stand on the Lord’s side each week till the church now numbers fifty-eight. This is the largest town in Washington Territory, containing about 1200 inhabitants. It is a central point of travel, trade, etc., and news in regard to our work is spreading to different points. We humbly ask the prayers of those who are anxious for the spread of the truth.