New Antioch by Dudley Marvin Canright

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 10, 1879

New Antioch

By Dudley Marvin Canright

New Antioch.—Have just closed meetings here, which have been attended with good results. Three years ago, Eld. T. J. Butler was here with a tent, and raised one of the largest interests that we have ever had in Ohio. Thousands attended, and the whole country was mightily moved; but unfortunately the work was not followed up as it should have been, and only about thirty-five came out decidedly for the truth. These were left without being fully instructed, and for three years they had but very little help. Consequently the little company here was much discouraged, and not fully united with us. Yet they have continued to observe the Sabbath, and have kept up meetings.

June 19, Bro. Gates pitched his tent here, and we spent two weeks laboring wholly for the brethren. All attended promptly, and took a deep interest in the meetings. Having formerly been Campbellites, few of them were accustomed to praying in the family or speaking in meeting. As we spoke upon our duty in these things, all were moved to tears, several spoke for the first time, and a number of young people made a start. We then held a meeting for the youth, in which a dozen participated. It was a happy season. Then we had one for the older people, in which all spoke and prayed, with one exception. All seemed humble and willing to learn.

Last Sabbath we organized a church of twenty-four members, after which nine were baptized. It was as sweet and solemn a meeting as I have attended of late. Sunday we spoke on the tithing system, after which all signed the tithing pledge. We also raised $27.50 for the Sabbath-school, blank books, and Sr. White’s books.

Sunday evening we closed with the Lord’s supper. We left the friends here greatly encouraged. We hope to return next fall, and see many others gathered in. D. M. CANRIGHT.