A DAY OF FASTING AND PRAYER by James White; M. E. Cornell

Publishing Committee · Rochester, N. Y. · May 15, 1855

A DAY OF FASTING AND PRAYER.

By James White; M. E. Cornell

The first Sabbath in June.

We have consulted with brethren with whom we have recently associated, in regard to a day of fasting and prayer, in view of the want of faithful laborers in the wide harvest field; and, also, the feeble state of health of several who are now engaged in the work; and the suggestion meets the approbation of all.

“But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” Matt. ix, 36-38.

By advice of brethren we appoint the first Sabbath in June as a day of fasting and prayer. The object is referred to above. The field is opening for laborers, and seems fast ripening for a gathering of precious souls to the truth, but laborers are indeed few. And several who have toiled in the work for years are failing in health. This seems a sufficient cause for humiliation, fasting and prayer, that the Lord of the harvest would favor his servants, and give them health and strength to still toil on in the glorious work, until the servants of God shall be sealed.

We recommend that all the churches be united in fasting and prayer on the day named, for the above object, and that the subject be introduced in all the assemblies of the saints, and that not only public prayer be offered, but that a portion of the day be spent in secret prayer by all who love and obey “the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.”

Let us all unite in offering to God the prayer of FAITH, that he would raise to health his worn and feeble servants, and, also, raise up, qualify and send forth faithful men into the harvest.

JAMES WHITE. M. E. CORNELL.