Camp Meetings by GEO. O. STATES.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 22, 1914

Camp Meetings

By GEO. O. STATES.

IN the year 1868, while I was living in Lapeer, Mich., Elder James White and other leading brethren introduced the idea of holding camp meetings. There was considerable prejudice against the plan in those days, but finally a meeting was held at Wright, Mich., September 1-7. A large representation of our membership was present, and when the brethren and sisters returned and reported concerning the feast of good things they had enjoyed, we decided that this was surely one of God's plans for giving the third angel's message to the world. From that time until my nervous breakdown ten years ago, I made it a point when possible to attend one or more camp meetings every year.

I was rejoiced to be able to attend the recent meeting at Montrose, Colo., during the first four days. It brought me in closer touch with the message than I could possibly come by simply reading reports in our papers. It was indeed a great privilege to meet some of our dear brethren connected with the general work, and listen to their words of counsel, and to meet all the laborers in my own conference. Some of these I had never seen before. It is comforting to know that while some of us who have carried heavy burdens in the past must drop out of active service in this work of God, younger men and women are raised up to hold aloft the banner of truth and press forward with the message.

But, brethren and sisters, as I attended this meeting one thing brought sadness to my heart. Upon making inquiry concerning some who loved this message some years ago, I learned that they were drifting away and letting go their hold on God. Surely it is no time to let go now, with the city of God almost in sight. Our people, whether they have been in this truth for many years or for only a short time, need the help that God gives through his servants at our annual camp meetings. While I could not preach a sermon, yet I felt the Lord's blessing in taking part in the social meetings and in our conference sessions. There are rich blessings in store for all who attend camp meeting. Let us ever be faithful.

GEO. O. STATES.