A Tehuantepec Welcome by George W. Caviness

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Oct 31, 1911

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 38, Nos. 43, 44.

A Tehuantepec Welcome

By George W. Caviness

I HAVE this year again visited the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Southern Mexico. On my arrival at one place, where a family had long been interested in the advent truths, I had the most touching reception I ever received.

Two of the brothers met me at the station; and as we reached the gate of their home, the whole family came to meet me. After shaking hands all round, one of the brothers began a sweet Spanish hymn of welcome. To the strains of this we marched into the house, and there remained standing until the song was finished, when a short prayer was offered. There was a sweetness and tenderness about it that brought tears to the eyes.

The people gathered in for public meetings and listened with deep interest. It was inspiring to present to them the truth, and to see the eagerness with which many received it. Frequently after a meeting they would say, "What preaching! how clear! how simple!" We now have four small companies of believers in this region.

These people are largely Zapotecan Indians, and are of a serious, religious disposition. It was from this State and race that President Juarez, the great reform president of Mexico, came. They are an intelligent and capable people. Their life and customs are very simple and patriarchal.

G. W. CAVINESS. Tacubaya, Mexico City.