The T. & M. Work in District No. 1, Vt.
By Charles P. Whitford
The eighth quarterly meeting for Dist. No. 1, was held at Berkshire, Vt., Oct. 30 and 31, 1875. There was a good representation of our brethren and sisters from Bordoville and East Richford on the Sabbath, and while Bro. Hutchins reviewed the evidences of our position the Spirit of the Lord witnessed to the truth, and rested in a good degree upon his servant and the people. A Baptist preacher present, who had an idea that our religion was nothing but a cold, shelly theory, arose in our meeting and with deep emotion said, “I am happily disappointed. The Spirit of the Lord is here.” We trust he may yet be led by the same Spirit to keep all the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. Before our meeting closed on the Sabbath, the friends were all reminded that this was a Tract and Missionary meeting, and that the business pertaining to this branch of the work would be attended to on the following day. All were earnestly exhorted to remain until the close of the meeting, but strange to say, some who should have remained and assisted in the business to be done, excused themselves and returned to their homes, leaving a few to do the work which should be shared by all. But we are happy to say that, notwithstanding these discouragements, our meeting was one of interest, and as successful as any previously held. A unanimous vote was given in favor of our district’s taking 1000 of the Health Almanacs. We have some here who will not see an enterprise like this fail. We believe that when our General Conference (which we accept as our highest earthly authority) decide upon a course of action, the object of which is to advance the light of truth in the world, it is the voice of God speaking to his people. Hence we believe the almanac enterprise is in the order of the Lord, and our people have acted their faith by taking from our hands these almanacs and paying their money for them. One little boy eleven years of age sold 52 in three and one-half days. He will dispose of 48 more. Others have the same spirit. Bro. Bean and myself have been out on the road the last week introducing our publications and the almanac. We can sell them at nearly every house. We are not discouraged in our work, but shall continue to labor in this direction. Personal effort is what is needed. The Lord is coming. Are we doing all we can to get the light of truth before the people? Will our skirts be clear from the blood of souls in the great reckoning day? Brethren and sisters of Dist. No. 1, let us gird on the armor anew, and labor on in this great and glorious work.