Bridgewater, Me by J. B. Goodrich

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 26, 1872

Bridgewater, Me.

By J. B. Goodrich

Our meetings in this place have been very good and interesting. Oct. 6, two were buried with Christ by baptism into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so they also should walk in newness of life. Others ought to follow the same example, and receive the blessing that attends the act of obedience.

Some in this place have overcome the use of tobacco, and others are making an effort. They must remember the words of Peter, “For of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.” “Be not overcome of evil,” says Paul. There is a great deal of pork, tea, and tobacco used in this country. Those who are acquainted with the lumbering business, very well know that those engaged in it think these three articles cannot be dispensed with in the woods. But the third angel’s message calls for reform, not only on the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, but in all our wrong habits of life. It points us to the day of God’s wrath, when none but the pure in heart can abide it.

Oct. 8, we commenced meetings at Smyrna Mills, and remained over Sabbath and first-day. Here we organized S. B. to the amount of $50.90 for one year. The interest was such that we decided that it was best for me to remain another week, and Bro. Blaisdell return to Bridgewater. On his arrival at that place, he received a letter informing him that his wife and little boy were very sick with the fever, hence he returned immediately home. I have since received a line from him stating that they were better.

Some new ones here have commenced to keep the Sabbath, and walk in the ways of the Lord. It has been very rainy, and the roads are very bad,—therefore the attendance has been small.

Oct. 22, I returned to Bridgewater and remained over the Sabbath. We organized S. B. to the amount of about $100 for one year. It was encouraging to see the interest manifested by those present, and the readiness to take hold and help forward the cause of present truth. A club of fifteen subscribers for the Youth’s Instructor was obtained at the S. B. meeting.

Sunday, Oct. 27, held two meetings in Monticello; but the roads were so muddy that there were but few out. I hope the time will soon come when a course of lectures can be given in this place. With some, there is an ear to hear.

Oct. 29, returned to Smyrna Mills, holding meetings over Sabbath and first-day. A few more came out and commenced to “keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus,” and others are convinced of their truthfulness. May the Lord help them to obey the truth. The prejudice in this place is giving way, and some are yielding to the claims of God’s law who, a few months ago, were very bitter against it. It is plain to be seen that the hand of God is in this message, and that it will triumph over all opposition in the end. I thank the Lord for the light I have received. May I have grace to walk in it. J. B. GOODRICH. Nov. 4, 1872.