DAKOTA by S. B. Whitney

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 28, 1882

DAKOTA

By S. B. Whitney

Madison, March 20.—Commenced meetings here Feb. 22. Held four in the hall, but this was engaged so much of the time that we decided to look for another place. The Presbyterian house was secured, where we held three meetings, but met the same difficulty. Then the Baptist house, which was vacant, was opened to us; but after holding two meetings, a severe storm broke us up entirely for the time being. Resumed in a few days, and continued till the 15th inst. The brethren have shown a commendable zeal, attending the meetings regularly, bearing all the expenses, and observing a day of fasting and prayer; but the storm so affected the roads, and various entertainments, almost every night and sometimes two the same night, so diverted the minds of the people in town, that we could get up no real interest and it was thought best to close. We were treated very kindly, however, in other respects. The editors gave us kindly notices, and the last evening (Sunday) the Presbyterian pastor, who had announced a temperance sermon, invited me to preach. Notice was given in the various congregations in the morning, and the house was full. A good impression, apparently, was made upon the people.

The last week has been devoted to special labor for the church. Distracting influences have hindered the work of organization, but these have been so far overcome that the church was fully organized with thirteen members, with the prospect that nearly as many more will unite soon. A feeling of jealousy, resulting in a spirit of rebellion, was developed in a very few, but they were entirely without sympathizers. The good Spirit came into our meetings, hearty confessions were made, and some who have been discouraged and backward sought the Lord with earnestness and deep emotion, making noble resolves for the future. To the Lord be all the praise.

S. B. WHITNEY.

P. S. Since writing the above, I have met one of the editors of the Madison Sentinel, a member of the Presbyterian church, with whom, at the close of my discourse on temperance, I had a brief conversation upon tobacco. He voluntarily informed me that he had used no tobacco for a week, and assured me that although he was having a severe struggle he meant to stick to it. S. B. W.