p. 188 | LETTER FROM BRO. WAGGONER by Joseph Harvey Waggoner

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 3, 1860

LETTER FROM BRO. WAGGONER.

By Joseph Harvey Waggoner

BRO. SMITH: On our way to Defiance Co., we held one meeting in Ridgeland, Henry Co. The people came out and filled the house, but with the exception of a very few believers, there appeared to be no interest in the truth.

At Ayersville we held three meetings in the school-house, which was for the first time opened for our use. The attendance was good, and the interest appeared to be good also. We think that much prejudice was removed, for much had existed in the community. Many had judged and condemned the truth without a hearing, and voted against permitting their neighbors to hear, by closing the school house. But as better counsel prevailed some desired to hear, and we hope those interested may continue to investigate. Had circumstances permitted we would have been pleased to continue our labors in that place, as the church greatly desired. But as our time was limited, and we were both suffering from unusually severe colds, further public labor was impossible. We found the little flock at Ayersville firm in the truth, seeming to realize, as all should, that we are in the last days. We held two meetings with the church, by which we were all strengthened and encouraged.

Returning by way of Gilboa we spent Sabbath, April 7th, at Green Spring, where a number assembled from the country surrounding, to whom we spoke of the necessity of immediate preparation for those things spoken of in God’s word.

We feel encouraged by our visits thus far. Though our health has been such that our labors have not been what we desired they might be, yet we find in general a good interest which makes us hope for the future of the cause in this State. May the blessing of the Lord rest upon the work, that our hopes may be fully realized.

J. H. W.