p. 14 | First-Fruits in Kisumu, Southeast Africa

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Aug 8, 1911

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 38, No. 31.

First-Fruits in Kisumu, Southeast Africa

By Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Baker

Four and a half years ago work was started among the Kavirondo people. Today there are eight workers connected with the two stations here. The first work was started at Gendia, and a little over two years later the station at Wire Hill, about fourteen miles to the southeast, was opened.

Sunday, May 28, we had the privilege of reaping the first-fruits of our work here. We gathered on the banks of a small river about a half a mile from the Gendia station for baptism. Brother Carscallen officiated. Sixteen of the boys followed their Lord into the watery grave. Ten of these were from Gendia, and six from Wire Hill.

After the baptism, as we all took part in the ordinances of the Lord's house we felt that the Lord had been very near to us, and we felt more than repaid for all our efforts which had been put forth to save these people.

Most of those who went forward have been with us between two and three years, and appear to be thoroly grounded in Christ. The trials they have already withstood because of their desire to follow the Lord, and the change in their daily life, show that they were ready for baptism.

This too is only the first-fruits. Already we are planning for baptism at the end of the year, when we are expecting between twenty and thirty more to follow these. Surely this ingathering of souls has filled the workers here with thanksgiving. But still we need the help of the prayers of all God's people, that these dear souls may be kept, since they live in the midst of heathen darkness.

Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Baker.