p. 377 | The Missionary by A. G. Daniells

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Jun 23, 1887

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 13, No. 24.

The Missionary.

By A. G. Daniells

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND.

THE work in this city did not stop when the tent was taken down. The last month has furnished as much to do as any preceding it. We have been visiting those who have embraced the truth, looking after the new church building, and holding several meetings each week. The work presents a more encouraging appearance each month.

We have a prayer and social meeting every Sabbath morning at 9 o'clock. Although this is early, from thirty to forty attend, and the most take an active part. The Lord comes very near and the tears flow freely as they praise God for sending them the Third Angel's Message. This meeting is held in a committee room adjoining the lecture hall. At 10 o'clock we have preaching. From fifty to seventy attend this service. Nearly all bring their Bibles and turn to the scriptures as they are given, and read for themselves.

The Sabbath-school is held at 2:30 P. M. The membership of the school at present writing is ninety-four, and the per cent. of attendance is about 90. Our school is an astonishment to the people here. I do not think I have ever seen a deeper interest manifested in any Sabbath-school than there is in this one. The teachers hold a meeting every Thursday night. They are earnest, God-fearing teachers, and are doing their best to make the school just what it should be. The donations run from $2.00 to $3.00 every Sabbath, besides the sum donated to pay for the hall. Already the school is supplied with fine maps and blackboards. Two or three children of a well-to-do leading chemist have been attending the school and have begun to keep the Sabbath. Another case of the same kind occurred in which the parents have been led to accept the truth. They now close their places of business and come to the meetings with their children.

Our Sunday services are well attended, and a good interest is manifested to hear the truth. Three or four have taken their stand with us since the last report.

The frame of the new church edifice is up and is being inclosed. It is 32x55 feet with 16 foot posts and the ceiling is arched. From present indications we shall be enabled to pay every bill when the church is finished, and dedicate it free from debt. The brethren and sisters have manifested a great interest in this affair and are doing their best to make it a success. I believe this is the first church ever erected by Seventh-day Adventists south of the equator. We can see that this step has already given character and influence to our cause. Several men who do not keep the Sabbath have given us from $25 to $50 each to help us.

On the whole we feel that we have reason to thank God and take courage. The way seems to be opening for meetings and Bible work in the various suburbs of the city. Satan is at work here the same as in other places, and we have our difficulties to meet, but the Lord is gracious and grants help. The reports from the workers in different parts of the world are of deep interest to us. We try to remember them at the throne of grace, and desire to be thus remembered by those who pray. A. G. DANIELLS.

Auckland, May 23, 1887.