The First Camp-Meeting in France
By B. G. Wilkinson
THE hearts of the brethren in France were filled with joy and thanksgiving to have a camp-meeting in their own country. Yet so widely scattered are our brethren in France that it was difficult to choose a spot central enough to accommodate all. It was decided to hold the meeting in the southern part of the country. To reach this location from Paris one must travel a day and a night in the train. And as there were four of the nine churches and companies still farther north, a large attendance at the camp was not expected. We thought that about thirty would be present, but we were happily surprised to see fifty-three17of our brethren and sisters present at one time. From the first, a good interest was manifested upon the part of those not of our faith. The first night of the meeting, the tent, and the chestnut grove where our tent was pitched, were thronged with people listening to the preaching, but unable to see the preacher, as our lighting apparatus had not then arrived. And during the entire time of the meeting, the attendance ranged from one hundred to two hundred and fifty persons from the outside. A very kind reception was given from the local authorities to this new style of preaching which had made its appearance in France. The mayor of the city announced that any one who should disturb the meeting would be fined ten francs (two dollars), and that he would station secret detectives among the people to see that his decree was carried out. This had a restraining effect on a large number who were disposed to create disturbance. The Catholic priest also gave notice in his church that he did not wish any of his flock to disturb those assemblies, as these people preach the truth. And a large part of the time, we were favored with the presence of three Protestant preachers who happened to be in the place during their summer vacation. The brethren were organized into missionary bands, going out daily to visit the people in the city, and inviting them to the meetings, and, when possible, selling our tracts and papers. The brethren became enthusiastic in the work; and the sales, though small in comparison with American sales, were very encouraging. In business sessions, resolutions were passed expressing gratitude to God for his blessings on the work in France the past year, pledging greater faithfulness in the payment of tithe, adopting the weekly donation principle, and calling for greater developments in our canvassing and educational work. There was an excellent spirit among the people. They resolved to pay the expense of the meeting, including the purchase of the new tents and of lumber. Most of this amount has already been raised. It was also voted to buy more tents and material, looking forward to a larger camp next year. The last Sabbath was a day of spiritual refreshing to the saints. Many who had come to the camp knowing that they had not walked faithfully in the past, found pardon and peace for their souls. Besides the workers of France, among whom was the undersigned, there were present no other laborers, except Elder Tieche, of the French-Swiss Conference.