FINLAND by H. P. Holser

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Aug 6, 1896

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 22, No. 31.

FINLAND

By H. P. Holser

Among the many signs given in the Scriptures to mark the near approach of the end, is the following: “And this Gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” One after another, the various nations of earth are hearing the proclamation of this Gospel of the kingdom, even to the twilight regions of the far north. The Finns, called “swamp-dwellers” from the marshy character of their country, are now hearing the glad tidings of the soon-coming Saviour.

In the twelfth century this people readily exchanged their heathenism for Christianity, under the Swedes; and, being quite religiously inclined, there is good ground for hope that many will gladly accept the advancing light of the glorious Gospel.

Finland, for six centuries under the Swedes, was annexed to Russia early in the present century. Altho under a Russian governor, the nation has its own constitution, and law-making body, part of which is appointed by the czar, and part elected by the people. In consequence, Finland enjoys more liberty than Russia. The Lutheran still continues to be the state religion.

Besides ministerial labor the message has been spread in this field by fifteen colporters, who have circulated some 14,100 books, besides numerous pamphlets in the Swedish and Finnish languages. Already there are Advent believers enough in this field to encourage the holding of a general gathering. This meeting was held at Helsingfors, the capital, during the first week of June. Swedes and Finns were present, hence the meetings were conducted in the two languages. Besides other meetings, forty-five Bible studies were held; these shed much precious light from the living Word on our times and present duties. Plans were laid for extending the message among the Finns more rapidly. These people now number over two millions; they are intelligent, orderly people, presenting in this respect a pleasing contrast with the noisy, loquacious people of Southern Europe.

January last a Swedish journal, devoted to the interests of the message, was started at Helsingfors, and is meeting fair success. A journal of like nature is now called for in the Finnish. At the close of the gathering, seven were baptized in the Bay of Finland. Thus, another mission field has been added to the many now hearing the Advent proclamation.

H. P. HOLSER.

Helsingfors, Finland, June 7.