British Virgin Islands by L. E. WELLMAN

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Sep 24, 1903

British Virgin Islands

By L. E. WELLMAN

L. E. WELLMAN

The work in this field is still moving, by God's blessing, in spite of the determined opposition of the ministers and leaders of the other churches already established here.

A source of much encouragement and help to the believers here, was the visit of my father, Elder D. E. Wellman, from Antigua, during the latter part of April and first of May. Six precious souls were baptized on Sunday, April 26, thus following their Lord's example and precept.

Preceding the baptismal service, we had the privilege of conducting a meeting in the open air, in the presence of between three and four hundred persons.

This being the first Scriptural baptism ever celebrated in these islands, it attracted much attention, and brought together a large number of people, many of whom came only to mock and make sport, while others came that they might know for themselves of a truth what we as a people believe, teach, and practice with regard to this ordinance, which is so universally scoffed at by the people in these islands.

A spirit of levity was manifested by many during the early part of the service, but as the truth of God's Word, the sacredness of his requirements, and the true meaning of the ordinance about to be performed, were brought home to their consciences, much of the lightness and foolishness died away.

A few still tried to raise a laugh as the first candidates were buried beneath the water, but finding themselves alone, quickly lapsed into silence; and as the last candidate was buried and raised again, the company broke up quietly and departed as though from a funeral occasion, which in truth it was, being a burial of the “old man of sin,” we trust, and a rising to walk in newness of life in Christ.

Others desired baptism at this time, but circumstances prevented. We trust, however, that they may have opportunity in the near future.

At the present time all are doing what they can to hold up the light of truth. Ground has been secured, and a church building started, father and I, with the assistance of the brethren, laying the foundation wall before he returned to his field of labor. We are hoping soon to raise the frame.

The few Sabbath-keepers are doing nobly, but it is here as in all these islands; our people are poor in this world's goods, and we need some outside assistance, and any help from our friends in the home land will be gratefully received.

We are now taking fifty copies of the Caribbean Watchman (our West India paper), and hope soon to increase our monthly subscription to at least two hundred copies.

We are glad we are here, and trust we may remain in this work until it is finished, and Jesus comes to receive to himself his redeemed ones.