SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CAMP-MEETING AND CONFERENCE.
By W. T. Knox
A large number of the brethren in southern California met in camp-meeting at Los Angeles, August 8-18. There are between nine and ten hundred Sabbath-keepers in this portion of the State, at least seven hundred of whom were in attendance. The camp was situated about four miles from the center of town, but was easily reached by two systems of electric cars. The attendance from the city was good throughout, and much interest was manifested by many. In addition to the laborers in this field, there were present Mrs. E. G. White, Elders M. C. Wilcox and N. C. McClure, and the writer. Brother S. C. Osborn and Sister C. R. King, of the Pacific Union Conference, were also in attendance, in the interest of the publishing and the Sabbath-school work respectively. The truths presented received a hearty response from the people, and much of the blessing of God was realized. The last Sabbath morning upon the grounds, fully one hundred and fifty gave themselves to the service of God or sought a fuller consecration; a large number of this company were taking their first step toward the Lord, as evidenced in the baptismal service which took place the following day, forty-one being buried with Christ in the water. Other applicants were requested to await their return to the home churches. Consideration was given to the sanitarium work for this section. It is evident that there is no more promising field for this work than in southern California, as many thousands come here every year from all parts of the country, most of whom are in search of health. While something has been done in the past in the establishment of a small sanitarium and a vegetarian restaurant, yet it is only a beginning. It was decided that immediate steps should be taken to secure suitable buildings and facilities to meet the demands of this field. During the State meeting held at Oakland in June, action was taken looking to the organization of a Conference for the southern portion of the State. In the Los Angeles meeting, this organization was completed, and the following officers were elected: President, Clarence Santee; Secretary, C. A. Pedicord; Treasurer, Belle P. Baker. Executive Committee: Clarence Santee, R. M. Healey, R. S. Owen, M. C. Morgan, F. B. Moran, T. S. Whitelock, and Truman Sterling. The territory of this new Conference includes all that portion of California lying south of the Tehachapi and Santa Ynez mountains. As previously stated, its membership is about one thousand, found principally in thirteen churches and two unorganized companies. During the meeting the needs of the South were presented, and one hundred and sixty dollars was given to the work in that needy field. About ninety dollars was raised for camp-meeting expenses. It is hoped that under the new organization and with the blessing of God the work in southern California will rapidly grow, and that all enterprises connected with it may be abundantly prospered. The office and headquarters of the Conference will be 516 S. Hill St., Los Angeles. W. T. KNOX.