p. 126 | Rice Co., Kansas by J. P. Henderson

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 21, 1875

Rice Co., Kansas.

By J. P. Henderson

Having occasion to visit this county on business, I was agreeably surprised to find quite a number of Sabbath-keepers here. Some of these have moved to Kansas from other States, and others have been induced by their example and good works to keep the Sabbath also. These brethren are poor, but their hearts are warm, and they are hopeful in the cause of the Lord.

The devastations of last year reduced some of them to actual want, and the discouragements under which they labored broke up their Sabbath meetings, so that for more than a year they have been without organization of any kind. Yesterday a Sabbath meeting was held, at which about thirty, including children, were present. I encouraged them as best I could, and the remarks were responded to by several warm testimonies. A covenant was drawn up, and twelve or more pledged themselves to keep “the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Many others, we think, will do so before long.

One brother and his wife are especially active in their labors for the truth, and God is rewarding them with his blessing. A warmer influence than theirs, both among those professing the faith and outsiders in general, I have never seen exerted. This, considering the fact that no minister was ever heard in this county, shows how God is working on the hearts of the people. They very much desire some Adventist minister to come to this place, and give a few practical discourses and help them organize and get into working order. We think a strong church might soon be raised up. I hope the attention of this Conference will be called to it, and some one sent.

One worthy brother came here about three years ago, with a large family and small purse. He took up a claim, and built a sod house, in which he is still living. He was reduced to want by the devastation last year, and although dependent on charity, himself and family concluded they could not do without the REVIEW. They saved a part of the allowance sent them to buy food, and sent it to the Office, but it was never heard from. Their paper was stopped. They wept over the loss, but have not been able since to replace it. Grateful hearts will thank the one who will have the paper sent to them.

All seem encouraged by this year’s crops; and they will probably be able before long to pay up their past obligations, as well as to meet future ones. There is the beginning of a good organization here. Surely, “The Lord knoweth them that are his,” and he will gather them from the remotest corners of the earth. “And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” Dear brethren and sisters, let us not forget to pray for our scattered brethren in these western fields.

J. P. Henderson.

Peace, Rice Co., Kan., Oct. 3, 1875.