Northern Minnesota Camp-Meeting.
By G. C. Tenney
A LOCAL camp-meeting was appointed for northern Minnesota, at Verndale, on the North Pacific Railroad, May 14-19; rather an early date for tenting, but it was necessary to hold it before the time for the more general meetings came on. As it proved, the time was well chosen, and the weather was almost unexceptionable. The meeting was small, only fifteen tents comprising the camp, which was pitched in the border of the pleasant village. The meeting tent was generally well filled by our own people and the interested citizens, who turned out well. At the very first a good interest was manifested, and as the word was preached and the blessing of God came near, the interest deepened until the tent became too small for our evening congregations. There was no excitement produced, and the strong contrast existing between the spirit of these meetings and that of a false revival held but a short time before, was remarked by many who had attended both. The burden of the meeting rested mostly upon Elder O. A. Olsen, though the other laborers who were present did a share of the preaching. Seeking God and a better knowledge of his work, and our duties, were the principal themes dwelt upon. On Sabbath and Monday, special efforts were made for sinners and backsliders. Several for the first time gave their hearts to God. Three of these were men whose earthly race is nearly run. Others of the citizens were deeply moved upon by the Spirit of God. We can hardly specify any part of the meeting as the best, as it was all characterized by God's blessing. Near its close we united in a praise-meeting, to recount the goodness of the Lord. It was a sweet season. Truly God is glorified by the language of fervent praise, and it is our privilege to even "glory in tribulation." Four were baptized and the cases of as many others deferred by their own request for a short time. Such an interest was manifested to hear the truth that it was thought best to continue meetings in the tent, which will be done by Brethren Collins and Schram. The meeting was evidently a success, both in the effect which it produced upon the community, and the blessings which it brought to our own people. The little church located there had for some time manifested the missionary spirit, and many earnest prayers were offered for the meeting and for the good it might do to the neighbors and friends. Our hearts were cheered by the evidences we saw of God's willingness to bless those who seek him. Thus it ever is. We need more faith and confidence in the Lord, and a better appreciation of his mercies.
G. C. TENNEY.