Panama by I. G. Knight

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · May 17, 1906

Panama

By I. G. Knight

BOCAS DEL TORO.—I have just returned from quite an extended trip for these parts, a few items of which I thought would interest the readers of the REVIEW.

I traveled, in all, about one thousand miles, changing from one vessel to another several times. Schooners and sloops (sailing vessels) were my means of travel, and much of the time I was compelled to remain below in order to keep dry, on account of heavy seas which washed the decks.

I visited the following places: St. Andrews Island, where we have a church of about twenty-five members; from there I went to the Nicaragua coast, visiting Bluefield, Prinzapolka, and Waunta. At the last two places are located some believers who have waited seven years to meet with some Seventh-day Adventist minister, having a strong desire to be baptized. I think I never saw any more anxious for this ordinance than they, but some were away and could not be reached at this time, so only two could have this privilege. In company with a brother we walked from Prinzapolka to Waunta, about twelve miles, along the beach at low tide. At this place I had for the first time an Indian audience, and who had said they “wanted to hear a white man preach what these brethren had been teaching them.”

I must tell you a little of the meeting held with these Indians. It was about three o'clock when we reached their place. They planned a meeting that night. I thought they had better let their friends know of the appointment as early as possible, but to my surprise they said, “No; if we tell them now, they will come at once. It is better to wait until evening.” So at evening they sent out their boys to notify the Indians, and sure enough they came filing in till the house was full, and some were standing outside. They listened with good attention. I told them we would have baptism on the morrow at eight o'clock. I was reminded at once to show them where the sun would be about that time, as they know more about that kind of time.

It was gratifying to note that these isolated believers were up to date on all points of the message for this time. I attribute it largely to the fact that they had been readers of the REVIEW. They had saved up some tithe, and also paid my fare back to Bluefield. From there I went to Corn Island, where I met a brother who had been a believer for about four years. He greatly rejoiced to meet me, and also to have the privilege of being buried with Christ in baptism. He gave me a subscription for the REVIEW. From there I sailed for Bocas, arriving home after an absence of a little over three weeks.

Our work and interest are greatly scattered, with few helpers. We are planning for a general meeting for this field to be held in Bocas, September 7-16. We shall pitch our field tent for the meetings, and shall try to find sleeping

quarters for all who come. Through this medium we wish to extend an invitation to all who can come to do so; we want at least one from each nook or corner. I. G. KNIGHT.