Chicago, Ill by John Matteson

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 10, 1871

Chicago, Ill.

By John Matteson

Two MONTHS have passed away in this place, since my last report, and still there is no prospect of leaving. The work goes on slowly, but steadily. In the beginning of March this year, there was no Sabbath-keeper here among the Norwegians. In April there were twelve, and eleven of them united into a church. Now twenty-five are keeping the Sabbath, twenty-two are members of the church. They are united and happy in the truth.

As a proof of their interest in the truth it may be worth mentioning that they are now busily engaged in building a meeting-house. They have bought a lot, well located, for $840. The house is 23x50 feet and will cost above $1000. Will probably be ready in the course of a month. I work every day on this house, except Sabbath, and hold meetings beside, Sunday and Friday evenings and Sabbath forenoon. We have an interesting Sabbath-school in the afternoon. We find it difficult to get English teachers. Would to God that some one had the burden of souls in this place and would labor among the Americans. We would be glad if some of our preachers could be with us when the house is to be dedicated.

This is truly a noble undertaking of a few men who sustain their families by day's labor. But they need a house. It costs immensely to rent a room in this place, and there are too many for a private house. So the work has been moved forward with great energy, and without one dissenting voice, or any drawbacks. All pull one way. The Lord adds his blessing. That makes the work move. And an experience in the truth and a preparation for the coming of the Lord is the happy result.

JOHN MATTESON.

21 Elston R., Chicago, Ill., Oct. 2, 1871.