OUR VISIT TO CANADA by A. S. Hutchins

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 13, 1860

OUR VISIT TO CANADA.

By A. S. Hutchins

Agreeably to appointment, Bro. Pierce and myself attended the Conference in Melbourne, C. E., on the 6th and 7th inst. We were disappointed in not meeting more of the brethren and sisters in Canada at this Conference. But the rainy weather and muddy going no doubt prevented some from being present, while others were kept away by sickness.

But we feel confident that those who were favored with the privilege of attending the meetings were refreshed, strengthened and encouraged still to pursue the narrow way to eternal life.

Here we met five from Eli, who have embraced the Sabbath the past summer under the labors of Bro. Evans. They all bore a good testimony in favor of the truth. Our meetings were held in the Advent meeting-house.

Elder Miles Grant of Boston, was holding meetings twelve miles from here, before and at the time of the Conference. Being invited by Bro. Evans to attend our meetings, he expressed a willingness to do so, provided he could have the privilege of stating the reasons publicly in the course of the Conference, why he differs with us on the Sabbath question. This was not granted. He then challenged Bro. E. to a discussion of the following question—"Is the seventh-day Sabbath binding upon the Christian church?"

The discussion was held on the 8th, and lasted about five hours; two in the forenoon and three in the afternoon, each speaking twenty minutes at a time, Eld. G. having the negative. After this discussion we remained in Melbourne and vicinity over a week, and so far as brethren there could learn the result of it, it was favorable for the cause of truth rather than against it. Though from a report of it in the Crisis by Eld. G., which fell into my hands to-day, I should think that he claimed a most successful triumph. But more on this point soon.

After carefully considering the demands of the cause of God in Canada, and the will of the Lord in this matter, it seemed clear to all of our minds that Bro. D. T. Evans should be set apart to the work of the ministry, by the laying on of hands, to preach the word and administer the ordinances of the Lord's house as the hand of the Lord might open the way before him; after which four were buried by him with Christ in baptism. The good Spirit of the Lord rested richly upon us.

From Melbourne we went twelve miles into a new place, where we held meetings which were to be continued by Bro. E. After this we spent one Sabbath with the few brethren in Eaton.

One of Bro. Hill's daughters of Melbourne that was present at the discussion, has since come out decidedly in favor of the Bible Sabbath. Her voice is now heard in prayer with the people of God, and she delights in the law of the Lord. May the blessing of heaven continue to rest upon Brn. Hills and Wales and their families for the deep interest they feel for the advancement of the cause of God. And may the blessing and peace of the Lord ever rest upon all the dear saints in Canada.

A. S. HUTCHINS.

Barton Landing, Oct. 29, 1860.