Report from Salem by Joseph Harvey Waggoner

Publishing Committee · Rochester, N. Y. · Dec 13, 1853

Report from Salem

By Joseph Harvey Waggoner

From Bro. Waggoner.

DEAR BRO. WHITE:—In company with Bro. Case I left Jackson, Mich., on the first day of the present month, and arrived at Salem, Ind., on the 3d. We found the brethren at Salem in trying circumstances; but we had liberty in presenting the word, we trust to the lasting benefit of some. We remained there, till the 20th inst. During our stay, ten were baptized—all firm and united in the present truth. Others, I think, will be ready to go forward in this ordinance as soon as opportunity offers. At Bristol, Elkhart Co., I parted with Bro. Case—he going north to Van Buren Co., Mich. Bro. Case is fully determined to continue in the good work, and find an entrance into the kingdom of God. I stopped at Kingsbury, Ind., and had a short, but very pleasant visit with Bro. Catlin. Bro. C. is firm in the truth, and wishes to be remembered by the brethren in his lonely situation. I also called on Bro. G. R. Clarke in Chicago, and I trust our visit was profitable, as it was mutually agreeable. In regard to the cause where I have been, I wish to say, that in outward appearances it is not prospering as in months past—conversions to the faith are not so frequent; yet in all the churches there is an increasing desire for holiness, and a determination to cast off the weights and remove the stumbling blocks. This is truly a cause for rejoicing, for when his children are living humble, and separating themselves from impurity, then God will work with and for them. I pray that the spirit of self-examination may increase and abound, till we shall all be purified unto Christ, a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

By letter received from Brn. Hall and Stephenson, I learn that God has been blessing their labors since I parted with them. My prayer is that we may all walk by faith and not by sight, and never be discouraged by what we may see, but always encouraged by what is promised.

Yours in love, J. H. WAGGONER. Alden, Ill., Nov. 27th, 1853.