St. Clair and Lapeer Cos., Mich.
By D. H. Lamson
I left home to attend meetings as per appointments in REVIEW, Sept. 19. Held in all, up to Oct. 28, thirty-seven; some of them in connection with Bro. Kenyon in a new place in the vicinity of Almont, Lapeer Co. Nearly all that took a stand for the truth at the first in this place, are still holding on, though we have not as yet been able to perfect an organization. Hope to be able to establish the work here soon. The Lord is, we trust, raising up those who can lead the flock. May those who profess to love the truth here, never bring a reproach upon it. Oct. 5 and 6 were spent in quarterly meeting at Memphis. This was an important meeting, especially to the new churches within reach, and the scattered ones who could attend. The meetings were largely attended, the churches of Oakland, Lapeer, Almont, Greenwood, and Smith’s Creek, being represented. The last three are new churches. Two of them, Smith’s Creek and Greenwood, were admitted to the Conference at its last session. The Spirit of the Lord seemed to pervade all hearts. On first-day, there were baptized, one of them the leader of the class at Almont. Bro. Kenyon was with us, having arrived the day before, on his way from home to a new field of labor. Bro. Gurney was not present, having an appointment at Alaiedon, under the advice and counsel of the Conference Committee. The meeting at Memphis had been long contemplated, for the more especial benefit of those who had more recently embraced the truth. This place was the most central for all, and the house here was large enough to contain all that would be gathered. As it was, the large house of worship was well filled. The social meetings were spirited, at two of which as many as sixty testimonies were given in the hour taken for each of the meetings. All were encouraged. Oct. 12 and 13 were appointed for meetings with the Greenwood church. Had not visited them before since April. All were alive to the work, and an increasing interest outside. A few meetings held with this church soon, would doubtless add to their number. Twenty-two, I believe, are now keeping the Sabbath. May all here follow the example of their elder in the putting away of idols. Sunday eve, Oct. 10, and Monday eve, Oct. 14, was at Abbotsford, where a course of lectures was given last spring. A few here are friendly. Six, I believe, are trying to live out the truth. Shall try to help them some during the coming winter. Oct. 19 and 20, at Almont. Assisted Bro. Kenyon in several meetings in a new field. Some interest is apparent. Oct. 26 and 27, at Smith’s Creek. Though the weather was exceedingly unfavorable, the attendance was good, and the occasion profitable. Spoke Sunday morning on Systematic Benevolence. The system was commended, and heartily entered into by all. Several who are not with us fully, spoke highly in its favor, and helped some in the work. The best of feeling exists, and more labor can be bestowed there with prospects of success. Twenty are here now keeping the Sabbath, all heads of families but one. In the absence of Bro. Weeks, their elder, Bro. Daniel Sumner takes charge of the meetings and Sabbath-school. Many of the youth and children are interested in this branch of the work. Hope that none will forget how important it is, and all bear a part in it. Ill-health and matters of business compelled my return home Oct. 28. Expect now to spend a good share of the winter and spring in St. Clair Co. May the Lord open the way, and guide in judgment.