THE COLORADO CONFERENCE.
By R. M. Kilgore
THIS meeting was held at Canon City, beginning at the appointed time, January 24, with sixty delegates in their seats. From the first it was evident that everyone had come bringing the Spirit with him, as was manifest in the prayers and testimonies borne at the introduction, when the Lord signified his presence also. In his opening remarks the Chair referred to the recent sad losses the cause had sustained in the death of the laborers in both home and foreign fields, and that God had spared the workers in this Conference, and had blessed their efforts in adding souls to the church, in eighteen months seven churches having been added to the Conference. The tithe was also more than formerly. It was then voted, unanimously, that two thousand dollars be sent to the Foreign Mission Board to be used in the most needy fields. The ring that accompanied the voices in the vote said, “Willingly, and our prayers go with it.” The brethren all realized that “it is more blessed to give than to receive,” and remembered the words of Jesus, “Freely ye have received, freely give.” Although the Conference is placing more workers in the field, I am glad that it was in their hearts to make so liberal a contribution to more needy fields in “regions beyond.” This liberal spirit at the very beginning of the Conference brought with it the blessing of God, which remained with us during the entire meeting. Union prevailed in all the business meetings. Even while business matters were being considered, the blessing and power of God rested upon us, and all realized that it was good to be there. But few changes were made in the officials, those standing at the head being re-elected without a dissenting voice. The office of business agent was created, and filled by placing the duties upon the State canvassing agent. The reports of the secretaries showed that the finances of the various departments are in a prosperous condition, and that a good work has been accomplished. The tithe received for the year ending June 30, 1899, was $14,526, while that for the six months ending Dec. 31, 1899, was $9,278. The tract society reported a gain of over $800. Resolutions were adopted expressing a deeper interest in the principles of health reform, and recommending a more full co-operation with, and support for, those engaged in this work. The missionary and the city mission work received due attention, as also the canvassing interests. The success of the meeting caused the delegates to ratify the action taken at the camp-meeting, and it was decided to hold the next camp-meeting at Denver, separated from all business transactions, giving the entire time and attention to the spiritual interests of the people. May the Lord let his blessing rest as richly upon this convocation as he did upon his servants during the sittings of the Conference just closed. R. M. KILGORE.