South Africa by J. F. Olmstead

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 24, 1907

South Africa

By J. F. Olmstead

PORT ELIZABETH.—At present the work here is encouraging, and our hearts are made glad to see a few taking their stand for Christ, even in this field, where it is quite difficult to get the gospel of the kingdom before those who still sit in darkness. Very many do not realize their need of original research, digging for the treasures of God. They seem satisfied with the established churches, and see no need of making a change, but there are some who are willing to sacrifice for Christ, giving up position and all for him whose we are.

Brother W. C. Walston and I came here in July from Oudtshoorn. He began meetings in Uitenhage, twenty-one miles distant, and I began here in Port Elizabeth. Brother Walston worked faithfully in Uitenhage, laboring in love to draw the honest to God. After spending about two months there, he was called up-country to assist Elder Armitage in the Somabula Mission, twenty-two miles from Gwelo, Rhodesia. Since then I have endeavored to carry on the work in both places to the best of my ability, and in the fear of God. The members in both churches are quite active in missionary effort, and the success enjoyed is largely due to their efforts. Since July, 1906, nine sisters and one brother have been baptized and taken into the two churches. Many others are interested, while a few are seriously counting the cost of yielding all to the Lord and walking with him.

We invite those of the household of faith to remember us in their daily petitions to God, that we may have spiritual success in our work for the Master, and

that we may be fruit-bearing branches. We do pray that our coming to Africa may not be in vain, but that we may see some turning from sin and unrighteousness to walk in harmony with all the precepts of God. J. F. OLMSTEAD.