THE Meeting at Norfolk, N. Y., held Aug. 28th and 29th, shared largely of the rich blessing of the Lord. The word preached had free course, and the saints enjoyed freedom of spirit. Many of those present, who have embraced the Sabbath, had but little or no experience in the past Advent movement, yet they are learning the whole truth relative to the past, and our present position. Some are moving very cautiously. This is certainly right; but such, in this age of gross darkness and unbelief, are in great danger of moving too slow.
We presented our views relative to the seventh-day Sabbath, Babylon, the open and shut door, &c., and the Spirit of God fastened the truth upon the minds of those who heard.—We were much cheered by the decided testimonies of some who have formerly been wavering.
We say in relation to the brethren in the vicinity of Norfolk, we hope they will press forward in the present truth, and be decided, settled, rooted and grounded, in all the truth, and live out by their works the "most holy faith" which they profess.
Monday evening, Aug. 30th, we had a free meeting with a few souls in Bangor.
Tuesday P. M., we attended the appointed meeting at Chateaugay. It was well attended, and we had a free time in preaching the word.
The brethren in northern N. Y. are generally poor. And those who have this world's good, have yet to learn what it is to die to this world, and sacrifice to God and for his cause as others have done. Their experience in the present truth has been short. May God keep them, lead them out from the world, and teach them what it is to show their faith by their works, that their faith may not be dead, but living faith.
Friday, Sept. 3d, we were glad to find ourselves among the mountains of Vermont. Though worn by hard labor and the journey, yet the cheerful countenances of old friends were reviving. How blessed to meet warm-hearted friends, whose hearts are in the work to spread the truth, and labor for God.
The brethren at Wolcott had prepared a tent which, in the most convenient manner, joined on to the house of Bro. S. H. Peck, and had prepared seats for about 400 persons. Friday evening quite a large company were collected from the region round about, and some from Canada East. We did not expect to meet near as many. There were many present who have very recently embraced the Sabbath, or are just becoming interested.
We were much blest in presenting the reasons of our faith and hope, and union, love and freedom reigned. We are sure that the word reached hearts that have formerly felt but little. Here we met Brn. Barr and Hutchins for the first time, and heard them speak of their present faith, hopes and joys. May the Lord give them success in winning souls to Christ, and the present truth.
Our expectations were more than realized at this meeting. The cause in Vermont is moving onward. The meetings were harmonious, refreshing, and some of them very powerful.—There were, at least, one hundred and fifty Sabbath-keepers present, besides others deeply interested.