MEETINGS IN N. H. AND SOUTHERN VT.
By A. S. Hutchins
Agreeably to appointment, Bro. Stone and myself have attended our meetings in N. H. and Vt. On this tour our hearts have been comforted and much encouraged. The cause of truth is onward. At Washington, N. H., brethren and sisters met together from several surrounding towns. The word was spoken with good freedom, and it seemed to be received with all readiness of mind. The evening following the Sabbath we109enjoyed one of the most precious prayer and conference meetings that we ever attended. The meeting for organization was somewhat lengthy, but most pleasant and harmonious. Fourteen united with the church, while a few stood out. Bro. H. P. Wakefield was chosen elder, and Bro. C. K. Farnsworth, deacon, of the church, without a dissenting voice. We hear very encouraging reports from there. At New Ipswich, N. H., the meetings were characterized by the same sweet, harmonious spirit. The church organized, and chose Bro. A. H. Huntley for their elder, and Bro. L. W. Hastings for deacon. Here also the brethren and sisters were strengthened, and felt to pursue their heavenly journey anew. At Vernon, Vt., we found a few brethren and sisters striving to enter into eternal life by keeping the commandments of God. We preached five discourses in the meeting house, but the storm and severe blow kept many from being present who doubtless otherwise would have come. We hope the time is not far distant when a full course of lectures may be given here, and when honest souls shall decide fully to keep all God's commandments. It was not thought best to organize here at present. We found the few Sabbath-keepers in Jamaica, Vt., laboring under some trials and discouragements; yet a portion of them seemed resolved to suffer with Jesus that they may also reign with him. Brotherly love should be cultivated more here. Some hearty confessions were made, and wrongs righted. Christian fellowship was found to exist among most of the number. These all expressed a desire to unite with the few Sabbath-keepers in Andover in church fellowship. Good victories, which we hope may be lasting, were obtained in the meetings in Andover. The Lord help the little flock to press together here, to love as dear children. The brethren organized, and appointed Bro. Horace Barr to lead the meetings at present. They will be glad to be united with the brethren in Jamaica, after which church officers will probably be appointed. Calls for meetings in other places did not come till our arrangements were all made, and we did not feel free to alter them. May the importance and solemnity of the time in which we live be duly realized by us all, and lead every member of the body to act in unison with the great work of preparation for translation into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.