ITEMS FROM THE INDIANA C. M.
By J. P. Henderson
The Spirit of the Lord was present, and those who came and sought the Lord early obtained the richest portion of the feast. We are sorry that some of our brethren allow circumstances to control them, and permit the less weighty matters of farm business, etc., to prevent their attending in full these annual gatherings. Many who come in at the eleventh hour can scarcely wait until the Sabbath is past before they must take their departure; and by so doing they not only lose the spirit of the meeting themselves, but cast a wrong influence. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. On the Sabbath our meeting began in earnest, and many souls sought the Lord, some for the first time. Elders Cartwright and Lane did effectual preaching. On Sunday the crowd came. Our book stand was one center of attraction. Sales amounting to $72.00 testify that some seed was scattered, at least. Canvassers were appointed, who did nobly in obtaining seventy-four subscribers for our periodicals. Our provision stand was well conducted, and netted a profit of over thirty dollars,—nearly enough to pay camp-meeting expenses. The most beautiful as well as the most impressive scene connected with the meeting was the baptism. The place selected was a bend in the White River, just above the railroad bridge. The left bank, sloping back from the water’s edge, and the bridge, were lined with people, estimated at from three to four thousand, who silently witnessed the burial of thirty-four precious souls with Christ in baptism. Elders Covert and Rees officiated. The presence of two hundred and fifty Sabbath-keepers, with their twenty-four tents, was, considering all things, much beyond our expectations. The timely arrival of W. C. White with an additional supply of books, and his efficient assistance in the T. and M. and Sabbath-school work, added much to the interest of the meeting. Perfect order was kept on the campground, and a good impression made on all who attended. We anxiously look forward to our second meeting, where we hope to meet again many of our dear brethren and sisters. Shall we not begin in time to make our arrangements to attend? Come the first day and remain until the close, if you would reap the full benefit of the meeting.