L. F. STARR by L. F. Starr

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

L. F. STARR

By L. F. Starr

Iowa

NOTHING cheers the hearts of the Lord's people so much as to know that the work of God is moving forward, and that decided efforts are being put forth to hasten our Lord's return.

To the glory of God, I am glad to report that the Holy Spirit has been and is working in this conference. There has been a steady growth. Last conference year more tracts were circulated than during the four preceding years put together. Our tithe and offerings have not diminished, although the past two seasons have been unfavorable.

As formerly reported, during our late camp-meeting and conference the storms and floods kept many away. This may have looked to some as if the work was somewhat dwindling, and needed reviving, etc.; but if the weather had been favorable we would have had a larger meeting. At one time we had eleven tents in the field; we now have ten, and reports of conversions are coming in. Over one hundred persons have been immersed during the past three months.

Our first local camp-meeting was held at Cedar Rapids, August 18-23. The location was a most favorable one, and the weather was the most pleasant week we have had this season. At the first meeting there were more of our people on the ground than usually attend a camp-meeting in northeastern Iowa. Over two hundred were in attendance, and we were cheered with victories from the beginning to the close. Twenty-four persons were baptized; twenty-three of these were new converts. The citizens of Cedar Rapids came to hear the message, and many became interested, and desired the work to be continued.

Plans for the erection of the buildings for our industrial school are being carried forward as expeditiously as possible. October 6 is set as the date for opening. Some of our old-time canvassers have dedicated themselves anew to the work. Hence we expect to see a revival of the canvassing work. The conference workers are in harmony, and all feel a willingness to push the work.