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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 19, 1914

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 91, No. 8.

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Germany

By J. T. Boettcher

J. T. BOETTCHER
THE annual meeting of the Upper Rhenish Conference was held in Cologne. A fine large hall in the middle of the town had been secured for this purpose. As is well known, the territory of the Upper Rhenish Conference is almost entirely Catholic, but the third angel's message is no observer of lands or peoples. In a few years flourishing churches have risen up in the great Catholic centers, so that at present 437 can be counted as members, which bring an annual income of 31,161.91 marks in tithe and other gifts, or 70 marks per member. This is really a very good showing, if all the conditions are considered. In the churches there are many women, whose earnings are always less than those of men; hence this shows what the love for the truth accomplishes.
When we spoke of our missions in Africa and Asia, God's Spirit moved on the hearts of those present, and over 16,000 marks was collected in cash and pledges. Some pledged to sustain a native worker for one year. Here I also met Brother Ernst Kotz's mother. She had just lost her husband, and her son had sent her a comforting letter and directed her to the time when there will be no more disappointments. Brother Kotz had the joy of knowing that his father had accepted the truth in the last few months. We read a letter from Brother Ernst Kotz to the congregation, and showed a paper which is now being printed in the native language in German East Africa. We must truly exclaim, The Lord hath done great things! A few years ago, before our missionaries were sent, the natives could neither read nor write, and today they have a paper which proclaims to them salvation through Christ. This has all been accomplished by the faithfulness of our dear brethren and sisters who voluntarily gave their sons and means for this work. In eternity the reward will be a great one.
The evening meetings of the conference were well attended, and we hope that in Cologne many more souls may be led to the truth.
Sabbath and Sunday were specially blessed times. Brother Josef Braun was ordained to the gospel ministry. We are always happy when new ministers join the company of workers. Unfortunately, Brother Erzberger was hindered on account of sickness. Brother Janert was unanimously reelected president. May God's Spirit be with the workers this year also.