San Jose Camp-Meeting

Seventh-day Adventist Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Sep 20, 1883

San Jose Camp-Meeting.

THIS is the largest meeting of the kind that has ever been held in this State. There are more than 150 tents on the ground, and over 650 campers. There is nothing like excitement on the ground, but there is a general good feeling, with evidences of increased confidence in the work. The camp has been districted for social meetings, and special meetings are held for children and youth.

Meetings of the Conference, the Missionary Society, and the Sabbath-school Association have been held, the committees appointed, and everything progressing toward the completion of the business. Our educational interests have also been considered to some extent. The 10:30 A. M. meetings have all been devoted to Bible readings, which have been profitable and of great interest.

It would not be possible to give any extended report at this time, but one point we notice with much pleasure. It seemed to be necessary to make an explanation of the necessity of publishing the "Review and Herald Supplement;" there being a quantity on hand for circulation. A very brief history of our work was given, and of the various efforts which have been made to hedge up its way, such as those made by the "Messenger party" and other fanatical factions. This had an excellent effect on the meeting. The supplement was eagerly taken; some who had read it spoke highly of its contents; and most of those who received it were liberal in giving something to pay expenses of its publication. We are more than ever convinced that they who thought to put a check on our work have opened the way for a most effective effort in its behalf. Aside from any direct reference to the statements of the "Marion part," there is much valuable information in it for our people.

The work of canvassing with the SIGNS before tent meetings was strongly indorsed by the Conference; also Bible readings. Those who have had experience in Bible readings are enthusiastic in their praise as a means of interesting the people and of convincing of the truth. There is a power in the word of God, and they who have respect for its authority must be impressed when they read for themselves the direct statements of the Bible. If these readings be conducted judiciously, they cannot fail to be both interesting and profitable.

With one feature of this meeting all friends of the cause must be pleased. An increasing interest is manifested in the missionary work in all its branches. In the school, as a means of educating laborers; in canvassing for our publications, including the SIGNS; in the seaman's mission, and in extending our work, as soon as possible, to "the islands of the sea." We shall be much disappointed if this meeting does not tell for the general interests of the cause of present truth in this State.

Nevada is represented here by Brn. Harmon and Allen. By a unanimous vote Nevada was united to this Conference. Authority for this action was given by the last general Conference. It makes the bounds of this Conference very large, but we hope to see so great an increase of laborers that something may be done in all parts of the field. Bro. Colcord, of Washington Territory, is also with us. We are pleased with such visits from the officers of other Conferences, believing that they will be profitable to the cause.

At the present time there seems to be a rising in the spiritual interest of the camp. We hope it may continue to the close of the meeting.

Sept. 13, 2 p. m.