B. C. MATERNAL ASSOCIATION by Mrs. H. F. Sprague; Mrs. Susannah Sisley

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 10, 1879

B. C. MATERNAL ASSOCIATION.

By Mrs. H. F. Sprague; Mrs. Susannah Sisley

EIGHTH ANNUAL REPORT.

At this, the eighth annual gathering of the friends of the Maternal Association, for the purpose of stimulating and encouraging the workers, and to commemorate the formation of the Society, we feel exceedingly grateful that we are able to present a much more encouraging report than for some time previous.

For the first three quarters of the year, our Society moved on in its accustomed channel, holding regularly its weekly meetings for reading, prayer, and the social intercourse of thought. Very refreshing and precious were the seasons thus spent, when the Lord condescended to meet with us to lighten our burdens, and to verify his promises in our experience. Still our hearts were grieved that so few, considering the great number of mothers around us, should avail themselves of the privilege. The inquiry often arose among us, “What can be done to create a more general interest?”

It was thought by some that the principles and object of the Society were not fully understood, especially with regard to the students. Although it has been our uniform practice, ever since the students have been among us, to remember them earnestly in our prayers, to strive to influence their minds for good, and, as far as possible, take an interest in their spiritual and physical welfare, yet no mention was made of it in our constitution, for this reason, that when the Society was formed eight years ago, we had no college or students in our midst; so it was evident that we had outgrown the few simple rules that used to govern us, and it seemed necessary to revise and amend them. A meeting was accordingly appointed for that purpose on the seventh of January last. The necessary changes were made, and in the place of one officer several were appointed.

At this meeting was talked over the suggestion before made with regard to devoting some time to needlework for the special benefit of the students, some of whom are in needy circumstances, and far away from their relatives. As the result, we determined to meet the first Tuesday in every month, and oftener if necessary, and spend the time in repairing and making clothes. In order to raise funds for this desirable object, we have been writing to our absent members, over fifty in number, to induce them to pay their small annual subscription, and to increase it if willing and able. We have received several very encouraging letters, and a few have responded to the call. From others we have had no reply, but we wait in hope. We have already spent several afternoons in this agreeable occupation; and although some were weary with the burden and responsibility it necessarily

brings, we have been far more than repaid for all our toil by the hearty thanks and grateful appreciation of those we have aided. But we prize more highly the Spirit's gentle whisperings of the words of our blessed Master, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

We have found it necessary to form a Vigilant Committee of seven. Their duties are responsible and laborious. To them are referred, for their careful investigation before presenting them at our weekly meetings, all cases needing sympathy and assistance. They also purchase the materials and arrange the sewing, and act in harmony with the President in all matters pertaining to this part of the work.

To this committee, and to the friends they have influenced to assist us in various ways, we are greatly indebted. Our earnest prayers often arise to our Heavenly Father that grace and wisdom may be given them, rightly to perform their arduous duties.

Another cause for encouragement is found in the increase of our numbers. Although a very few in response to our inquiry have informed us that on account of the great distance that intervenes they cannot hope for the privilege of meeting with us again, and so think they had better sever their connection with us, in some instances asking advice with regard to forming similar societies in their own locality, twenty-three others have, during the year, added their own and children's names to our list, making in all one hundred and fifty mothers and five hundred and twenty-two children. This is quite a large number, still there are several who yet stand aloof, and others have recently come to reside in the place, whose presence and co-operation we greatly desire.

Surely no mother, with such tender solicitude and ardent longings as only mothers can feel for their unconverted children, would willingly stay away from meetings such as these. Although considerable time and attention must now be devoted to supplying their physical necessities, the salvation of their precious souls is the paramount object for which we pray and strive. Here, free from restraint, we can confer over our trials and perplexities, hopes and fears, frequently finding relief and aid, always sympathy and encouragement.

Never was there a people so laden with solemn duties and fearful responsibilities on account of the great light and blessed privileges so mercifully bestowed upon them as the people of Battle Creek. Never did mothers need the aid of such a society so much as now. Our children are rapidly growing, forming characters for time and eternity; and our opportunities of assisting them are fast drawing to a close. The few remaining events of prophecy are evidently on the eve of fulfillment, hurrying on the end of all things earthly.

With gladness of heart to render any service for the welfare of the youth around us, and to aid one another in our high and holy calling, let us gird ourselves anew, and enter another year of labor, confiding in God, who alone can give success. “Establish thou, O Lord, the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.”

MRS. H. F. SPRAGUE, Pres.

MRS. SUSANNAH SISLEY, Sec.

Battle Creek, Mich., April 1, 1879.