Conference in Bristol, Vt.
By E. L. Barr
BRO. SMITH: Our conference at Bristol has been one of interest, and we have reasons to believe will prove a lasting blessing to the church in this vicinity, and also to the saints that attended from a distance. We found the Spirit and peace of God abiding in the place where we assembled. The Lord wrought for the release of some that were bound by the oppressive power of disease, and brought them out to meeting, and graciously sustained them in the faithful discharge of their duty. The church in this place is moving forward. Some are in a good place to work for God, and others are striving to get there. All seem to realize in a good degree the solemn time in which we live, and feel the importance of being right, and that immediately. Much freedom was granted of the Lord to present the truth which was listened to candidly by the kind friends and neighbors that met with us on Sabbath and First-day. The truth is getting a strong hold of some honest minds in this place, while its enemies are striving to hedge up their way. May God save them from error's dark, destructive way, and lead them understandingly into all truth. We continued our meeting over Second-day, on the morning of which the solemn ordinance of baptism was attended to, graced with the sweet, heavenly Spirit of our compassionate Redeemer, after which we again assembled for worship, when the testimony of the faithful and true Witness began to take effect, attended by the searching Spirit of God. The fervent prayers, the groans and tears, the hearty, faithful confession of faults, made the place solemn and awful. The importance of a thorough consecration of all to God, and a perfect preparation to meet the fearful scenes before us, seemed to be the moving principle in this meeting, which continued till late in the afternoon. The evening meeting was one of interest, and well attended. Our morning devotions on Third-day, previous to the departure of the saints for their homes, were truly blessed, comforting and heavenly. Thank God and take courage, dear brethren; and in view of his infinite love and care for his poor, afflicted people, be faithful, be humble, and live holy lives. And in view of our fearful position, be careful, be diligent, and be wise. E. L. BARR. Bristol, Vt., Dec. 30th, 1857.