Minneapolis Meeting by George C. Tenney

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Jan 8, 1885

Minneapolis Meeting.

By George C. Tenney

A STATE meeting for Minnesota was held at Minneapolis, Dec. 11-17. The meeting was conducted by Elders G. I. Butler, D. M. Canright, and O. A. Olsen. The preaching was nearly all by the two former. An invitation was given to all the laborers in the Conference, the most of whom responded by their presence. Some brethren and sisters came from other churches, and these, with those living in the city, formed quite a large congregation. The objects of the meeting were the consideration of the wants of the cause, and to bring about a more perfect relation of the laborers to the work and to each other. There was an evident desire to make the best use of the time to secure these objects. It was a privilege which all appreciated, to have the labors of Brother Butler, who stands at the head of the work, and Brother Canright, who has labored prominently in the past in building up the cause in Minnesota.

The preaching was of an earnest and impressive nature, leading to close self-examination. Humility and contrition, those offerings acceptable to God, were manifested upon the part of many, and brought the blessing of God very near. Sabbath and first-day the time was occupied by devotional meetings. The solemn truths for our time were placed before us by the servants of God. The social meetings were marked by an earnest spirit of seeking God. Some clouds have for a time overhung the cause in this Conference and impeded its progress. It was a great joy to see light breaking in and difficulties all removed. A feeling of love and union was brought about, and courage was infused into the hearts of all present, and it is not too much to expect that this happy condition will abide, and extend to every quarter of the State.

On each evening of the last three days of the meeting there was preaching, and the rest of the time was devoted to instruction in the various branches of the work. Elder Butler spoke on the subject of tithing, and Elder Canright related his views and experience in regard to the Testimonies, as connected with the cause of present truth. Colporter and canvassing work received considerable attention. Several enlisted in this service and went out from the meeting to scatter the light of truth. Over 3,000 copies of "Sunshine at Home" have been sold in Minnesota during the past year, and it is expected that a larger work will be done.

There are important interests centering in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Brother F. L. Mead, from Battle Creek, is engaged in missionary work in these cities. A mission is to be opened there and a force of laborers is already engaged in canvassing for "Sunshine" and the SIGNS OF THE TIMES. A Tract and Missionary district was formed, composed of the above-named cities, of which Brother Mead was appointed director. Those who attended the meeting were benefited in more than one respect. They go forth to labor in better courage and with a better knowledge of the work than ever before. There is a spirit to rise and advance with the message. Grand opportunities are presented in that noble State, and it is confidently expected that this meeting will mark an era in the history of the cause. If this people are faithful to their trusts, there will be found many honest hearts, who, in the great conflict before us, will respond to the call of our great Leader to separate themselves from the evils of this generation, and take their places with the people who keep the "commandments of God and the faith of Jesus." G. C. TENNEY.