ANOTHER YEAR by A. S. Hutchins

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Sep 14, 1876

ANOTHER YEAR.

By A. S. Hutchins

One more year of T. & M. work in our Conference lies in the past. It might be well for each member of the Society to reflect at this point upon his or her efforts to spread the light, and settle the question right here, whether more cannot be done the ensuing year, if life be spared. I am confident we do not at present fully appreciate this work. This branch of labor is in its feeble and undeveloped state compared with what it must and will be as mercy’s closing message is borne on to the nations of the world.

Our publications have been prepared with great pains. They contain truths of the most important character, drawn from the great fountain of light and truth, the word of God. Both the matter and style of the works command the respect of the intelligent and candid wherever they are read. And thousands of the best of minds will receive present truth from reading them. Upon our Tract and Missionary Societies lie the duty and privilege of sending them forth everywhere, shedding light like the rays of the morning sun.

We may not see much accomplished in our State to inspire courage and the spirit of sacrifice in us yet; there certainly has been something accomplished. There are persons to-day worthy members of our church, who have been brought to the observance of the Bible Sabbath by reading during the past year. They will help to sow the seed of truth.

We are about to enter upon another series of district quarterly meetings. For the encouragement of the Society, I can say, we are not in debt. But we do greatly desire to keep good the fund we have on hand, and this may easily be done if every member will quarterly make a donation. In voting to act upon the principles of the Constitution, we are pledged to contribute, from time to time, for the support and prosperity of our worthy mission; and it seems to me the most proper way is, quarterly to make such contributions with the report of work done as our circumstances and the demands of the cause would indicate.

In the reports of some Societies, I notice just as many reports as there are members, and an even number of donations with members. This looks well. Please watch our next reports, and see how our records stand.

As we enter upon the responsible duties of our appointment for another year, we have no other than words of courage and good hope to utter to you, dear brethren and sisters. The fields are all white for harvest; “and he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal.” A. S. HUTCHINS.

Irasburgh, Vt., Sept. 7, 1876.