Napoleon, O., Jan. 18, 1871
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Napoleon, O., Jan. 18, 1871
By I. D. Van Horn
On Friday evening, Dec. 30, I began meetings in the neighborhood of Bro. S. E. Edwards, four miles south-east of Napoleon. The Disciple church were so kind as to allow us to use their house of worship, and they have our thanks. I have now been here nearly three weeks, and have held twenty-six meetings. The first two weeks we had good sleighing, and our public meetings were well attended. The people seemed to be very anxious to hear the truth. They came from miles around, and sometimes filled the house, which would seat about three hundred, to overflowing. The last week there has been a great change. The weather became very warm, the snow almost all went off in a day, the roads became very muddy, and the nights dark and stormy, so the people could not get out. This coming when the interest was the greatest, and when the people were making decisions, stopped the work almost entirely. Quite a number became convinced of the truth; but they yet remain undecided about moving out. We came into this place more especially to benefit our brethren and sisters that lived here, and in this the work has been successful. Some of Bro. Edwards’ family made a start in the cause of the Lord. The brethren and sisters were much encouraged. I have good evidence that a good work has been done here. Seven have been buried with their Lord in baptism, and risen, we trust, to walk in newness of life. One of these was a young sister from Defiance, who decided to live the truth against the opposition of parents and friends, since I left there. I organized a church of fourteen members, Bro. George W. Edwards was chosen and ordained their elder. They heartily adopted the plan of Systematic Benevolence, and put down their figures to the amount of $160.40 per year. The Lord gave us his blessing in this work. We feel to give him all the praise. If this little company remain faithful in their duty, and cast a true and steady light, they may expect others to join them soon. I feel to take courage, and go forward in the work and cause of present truth. We will labor on till the jewels are gathered, praying the Lord to hasten on the work. I. D. VAN HORN. Napoleon, O., Jan. 18, 1871