Fostoria, Ohio, Aug. 28, 1875 by H. A. St. John

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Sep 9, 1875

Fostoria, Ohio, Aug. 28, 1875

By H. A. St. John

Michigan.

Since my last report, I have had the privilege of attending our good camp-meeting near Battle Creek. This was indeed an excellent, as well as an important, meeting. I trust that its influence will not be soon lost upon myself. But abler pens have reported this meeting, so I will say no more. After returning from the camp-meeting, I spent the following Sabbath and first-day with the church in Jefferson. I found them of good courage in the Lord, and growing in the truth. Our meetings were interesting, and, I think, very profitable. At the Sabbath meeting, six of the youth came forward for prayers. The tender, melting Spirit of God was present. What is a more beautiful sight, and one that occasions greater rejoicing, than to see the youth turning to the Lord? We know, too, that it occasions joy among the angels in Heaven.

After forenoon service on first-day, we repaired to the beautiful Bird Lake, where six followed their Lord in baptism. This was the sixth time since June 6 that we had gathered on the same spot to administer the solemn rite of baptism. The very place seemed invested with sacredness. Here forty-two precious souls have found a grave in the baptismal waters, and we hope, and sincerely pray, that they all may walk in newness of life till Jesus comes to change this vile body, and fashion it like unto his glorious body.

The church in Jefferson now numbers forty-one members, and we feel quite sure that if these walk circumspectly and humbly before God, they will receive additions to their numbers of such as shall be saved. Work upon the meeting-house is begun, and we hope that it may be completed before cold weather. It is our judgment that another course of lectures immediately following the dedication would prove a great blessing to the cause of God in Jefferson. May the Lord direct.

To the dear brethren and sisters in Jefferson I would say, Have fervent charity among yourselves, and love one another with pure hearts fervently. I know you love one another very much, but I greatly desire that your love may abound more and more.

H. A. St. John.