Minnesota Church Organized Through Norwegian Settlement Meetings
By Charles Lee
I WENT with Bro. Matteson to this county, in the latter part of July, where I have remained since. During the month of August I could not accomplish much good on account of the busy season. It was in this county that I first started to proclaim the present truth, now nearly two years ago. A few came out at that time and embraced the Sabbath of the Lord; and they have continued ever since to observe the commandments of God. There are only a few, but they are upright and true-hearted. My prayer to God has been that a few more would come out and join the pilgrim band, that there could be a church organized. God has heard my prayer. About two weeks ago I began to hold meetings in a Norwegian settlement about three miles south-west of Litchfield. To start with, a few came out for curiosity. At every meeting the hearers have increased in number and in thoughtfulness. The curiosity of some has turned into a solemn seeking for God's mercy, that they may escape the impending danger. Nine or ten have resolved to keep God's holy Sabbath. The tender Spirit of God has been realized in all our meetings, and has melted the hearts of strong men and women down to tenderness before their Creator. The audience is still increasing in numbers. The deacons of the Lutheran church have tried to the uttermost to get their priest to attend our meetings. They say that he is very bold to oppose us so long as he keeps himself at a respectable distance from us; but he is not daring enough to face us. This seems, however, to be a common practice with priests and ministers in our day. The time I spent in company with Bro. Matteson was very precious to me. His tender sympathy, his humble walk with God, his much good advice, and his instructions encouraged me greatly, and enables me to present the truth of the living God in a more effective way to my fellow-beings. May God bless the dear brother. The favor received from the General Conference I will always remember with great gratitude of heart. Be the brethren blessed by God! The brethren of the Minnesota Conference have done me more good than they are aware of. I have unceasingly asked my Heavenly Father that he would enable me to help my dear old mother (who still lives in Sweden), who has been dependent upon my help; and I have encouraged her time and again that I would soon help her, though I have had no one to look to or depend upon but God. The means received from my dear brethren is by this time received by her with joy and thankfulness in the time of need. I have had to dispose of my watch and other articles to keep up my traveling expenses. With joy have I done so, knowing that God would consider what little I could do for his cause, and that he would care for me. When I now find that the brethren here and there begin to take some notice of me in my struggles, I feel that my heart is warmed up, and with cheerfulness will I renew my efforts to seek for the strayed sheep of the fold of Jesus, and try to bring them home. I cherish no hard feelings toward any one. Remember me before God. Your sincere brother in Christ,
CHARLES LEE.