DEDICATION AT ROCHESTER, MICH.
By Uriah Smith
This meeting was held according to appointment, Nov. 18 and 19. The brethren of the Rochester church have, at considerable labor and expense, which they have assumed with a commendable spirit of self-sacrifice and devotion, moved their church building from where it was first erected, some years ago, and rebuilt it in the pleasant and enterprising village of Rochester. They have secured a fine location, and the church, as now fitted up, affords an exceedingly pleasant and comfortable place of worship, nearly equal to any in the place. Commencing Friday evening, seven meetings were held, closing Sunday evening, besides social meetings and several sessions of the Tract and Missionary Society. The dedication services were held Sunday, at 10:30 A. M. Unfavorable weather, and other special services in the place, reduced the attendance from without below what was expected, but there was a good representation of the citizens of the place, and all things considered, the occasion was a very satisfactory one. Elds. Haskell, Lawrence, and Lamson were present to assist in the services. In dedicating the place of worship which they had prepared, to the service of the Lord, the church also dedicated themselves anew to him, this being after all the matter of real importance, and entered into a covenant with the Lord and each other, which, if they will carry out, their own spiritual prosperity will be assured, and a gathering influence will be exerted through all that community in behalf of the truth. Quite a number of brethren and sisters were in from adjoining churches, who seemed to enter heartily into the spirit of the occasion. The cause in Oakland County has, in past years, labored under some adverse influences, which have hindered its advancement. But these are passing away, and with these, prejudice is fast disappearing. The brethren there think it a good time now for a course of lectures to be given in their new house of worship, and are anxious for this to be done. We think such lectures might be given with good prospects for the most cheering results. We trust a light has now been established in R. which will shine with ever-increasing luster till the end.