South Africa by J. M. Freeman

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Nov 17, 1904

South Africa

By J. M. Freeman

BLOEMFONTEIN.—At the beginning of this year the Union and Cape Conference Committees invited me to leave Basutoland, and to take up work in the Orange River Colony. After considerable hard work trying to arrive at a decision, I finally left the Kolo Mission in the hands of Brother and Sister Chaney, and came to Bloemfontein.

Since coming here, Sister Wöcke has renewed the work she relinquished owing to ill health. She takes a company of children and youth for Bible instruction every Sunday among the indigent Dutch people. In the afternoon she meets with a company of Dutch-speaking colored people at Kafirfontein, one of the large locations on the outskirts. I have accompanied her to both of these places, and have been favorably impressed, especially by the respectful interest manifested by the colored people, among whom we hope a growing interest will be maintained.

As I have had to wait for the arrival of the cart which I ordered for use in the work, I have tried to build up the few professing Sabbath-keepers who are here. As a result of visiting a sick woman of one of the Bloemfontein families who since died,—yet I am thankful to say not without hope,—a good impression was formed by the family and relatives. I was asked by the German minister to take part in the funeral service, and since then I have been holding Bible studies with the family every week. Some evenings as many as twelve have been in attendance.

Three intelligent natives have been studying with me twice a week. I am inclined to believe that one of these will soon take a stand for the truth. I am planning to visit the scattered Sabbath-keepers in this region, hoping to induce those who can to actively interest themselves in spreading the message. Please pray for the work in this mixed field. J. M. FREEMAN.