The Alabama Camp-Meeting by G. B. Thompson

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 4, 1913

The Alabama Camp-Meeting

By G. B. Thompson

UNDER spreading oaks, on a pleasant plot of ground in Montgomery, the Alabama conference and camp-meeting were held. The camp was very centrally located on a good car line, and in the midst of a good class of people. The evening services were quite well attended by the people of the city. The pastors of some of the churches were present at a number of the meetings, and were very cordial in every way. This was much appreciated. Many seemed deeply interested in the presentation of the word, and it is planned to leave a company of workers to develop the interest aroused by the meeting. It is hoped that the company of Sabbath-keepers here may be strengthened by the addition of others, and that a church may be organized and a building erected.

The attendance of our own people was very small, but an earnest spirit was manifested. So far as I know, all consecrated themselves anew to the work of God, some of whom were attending the meeting for the first time. What this conference needs above all else is strong, experienced workers who will go into the cities and towns and raise up churches. The best class of people in the South can be reached with the message. Never have I seen people listen to the preaching of the word with greater respect than in these meetings. They were very courteous, and seemed to have a deep reverence for the Bible. I see no reason why strong companies cannot be developed in the Southern States as well as elsewhere.

The reports rendered at the conference indicate progress. Over fifty have embraced the message during the year. There has been an increase in funds. About five hundred dollars was raised for missions, which will about bring up their quota of twenty cents a week. The business of the conference was harmonious in every way. Elder A. L. Miller was unanimously reelected president. The other officers elected are practically the same as last year.

Montgomery is a nice city, of about forty thousand inhabitants, located in the great “black belt” of the South. It was here, Feb. 18, 1861, that Jefferson Davis took the oath of office as president of the Confederated States of the South. A star on the steps of the Capitol marks the place where he stood. But that civil struggle is over, and all are working for peace and union. The people of the South are seeking to work out their problems. We believe these are the best days we shall ever see to push the message among the cultured, refined classes of this Southland.

We are hopeful for the work here, and pray that the Lord will greatly prosper his work the coming year.

G. B. THOMPSON.