FRENCH MISSION by Michael Belina Czechowski

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 5, 1859

FRENCH MISSION.

By Michael Belina Czechowski

DEAR BRO. SMITH: My silence has probably surprised

you, as you requested me to keep you informed of my labors—of where I have been and what I have done. I stopped nine days at Bangor. I was very sorry to leave Bro. Bourdeau and return so soon, but it seemed necessary, as the snow was melting very fast; and if I had remained longer I could not have taken back my team.

Our labors in Constable were very agreeable and satisfactory. The Lord gave us one French and one English family. Others were convinced, but made no declaration.

Before the door opens for me elsewhere, I shall labor among the French in this vicinity, and I find plenty to do. I preach in the morning at Champlain on Sundays, then walk to Coopersville, four miles from there, and preach at 2 o'clock, P. M., then back to Champlain and preach in the evening, and afterwards have a Bible class. I held it till midnight the last two Sundays. Monday morning I walk home, a distance of seven or eight miles. My horse is at present unfit for use.

There are many Catholics at Champlain and Coopersville. The priest has become much enraged against me. Two weeks ago he threatened to excommunicate his members, if they went to hear me preach. Some of them said they would go to hear me if they were deprived of communion in consequence. The priest then influenced the trustees of the school-house in which we met at Coopersville, to close the house against me, but an American, not one of our brethren, opened his house, and told me I might hold meetings in it as long as I chose. Bro. Bourdeau left for his home in Vt. two weeks ago. This worthy brother was unable to preach more without resting awhile. His throat troubles him very much. I was very sorry he could not assist me longer.

I received last week $10,00 through the hands of Bro. White. It came in the right time, as I was in great need of money then to pay taxes, make fences, etc. I feel very grateful to the dear brethren for their kindness, and trust the Lord will reward them.

My love to all the dear brethren who compose the 144,000. M. B. CZECHOWSKI. Mooer's, N. Y., Apr. 28th, 1859.