The Missionary by N. J. Bowers

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Sep 17, 1885

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 11, No. 36.

The Missionary.

By N. J. Bowers

Kansas Camp-Meeting.

This meeting was held according to appointment August 20-30, at Beloit, Mitchell County. The weather was mostly favorable, although a severe storm the first Sunday afternoon did some damage to a few tents, no one was hurt, and no service was interfered with. The camp was located on the open prairie just east of town, where a gale could spend its whole fury upon the unprotected encampment. Yet it seemed the Lord had a care for us, and the heaviest of the rain and wind passed around.

There were two large tents used for public meetings, one for the Scandinavian and the other for English services. Elders O. A. Johnson and J. P. Rosqvist from abroad were present, and conducted the work for the Scandinavians. Quite a representation of this nationality were present. There were nineteen family tents on the ground, besides a large tabernacle in which several families were quartered.

Quite a number of the Kansas ministers were present, and the preaching for our own people was in the line of personal consecration to God and his work for this time. We have special and saving truths, and we should so relate ourselves to them that we can become channels of light to others. Tithing, health, and dress reform each received a share of attention. The scriptural grounds of the testimonies of the Spirit were presented, and by a rising vote nearly every one pledged himself to regard the light God has by this means given the church. Daily children's meetings were held, which resulted in good. The attendance of the brethren was quite good, more than two hundred, including members of the Sabbath-school, were encamped.

The manner of labor on the ground was quite effective. The encampment was districted off, and a leader appointed over each division. Every morning a conference of these leaders was held, where special cases were considered, and plans for personal labor entered on. By this means every one was personally labored with, and thus good results were gained. Twenty-three were baptized as the fruits of this work. These were mostly children and youth, members of the different Sabbath-schools.

The canvassing work was considered, and steps taken to revive the efforts in behalf of "Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation," which will likely be successful.

The outside attendance was good at every service, some of the best citizens being always present. Some have already taken their stand to keep the Sabbath, and the interest is such that it is thought advisable to follow it up with a tent effort. Altogether, the meeting was a success, and we thank God and take courage. N. J. BOWERS.