Meetings in Vermont by A. C. Bourdeau

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Michigan · Aug 25, 1863

Meetings in Vermont.

By A. C. Bourdeau

Bro. White: We commenced our labors with the tent in Vermont under many discouragements. The last week in June we went to East St. Johnsbury, by the instruction of the committee, and made arrangements for a piece of ground on which to pitch the tent; but after we had posted up several hand-bills in different places, the owner of the ground refused to let us pitch the tent on his land, saying that the people did not want us there. They had learned that we were Seventh-day Adventists, and they were so sealed over with popular orthodoxy that they did not want to have such unpopular doctrines preached in the place.

As we found no opening for meetings there, we went to Danville Green, but could find no ground on which to pitch the tent. We then went to North Danville, found an opening, and commenced meetings July 5. We continued there twenty-three days, and gave twenty-one lectures. The truth was presented with freedom, and in power. But the tent-ground was so wet on account of heavy rains which continued for three weeks, that for most of the time we could hold no evening meetings, and the work was much hindered. On first-days our congregations were large and attentive.

After the Sabbath question was fully discussed, Bro. Hutchins requested those who believed that the first day of the week was the Sabbath, to stand upon their feet. Only one arose. Then several arose in favor of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment.

Three weeks ago I was drafted according to Act of Congress "for enrolling and calling out the national forces," approved March 3, 1863, and we concluded to suspend our tent labors till I was liberated from the draft; for many were hindered from attending the meetings on account of the hurrying time of haying, and the excitement about the draft.

I believe that I am the only one among the brethren in this State that was drafted. God has heard the earnest prayers of his people, and now I am prepared to resume my labors with the tent.

Sabbath, Aug. 1, my brother and myself met with the brethren at Fairfield, Vt. We had liberty in preaching the word to them. We were glad to see those who came out under our labors last spring, firm in the truth. May God bless them, and add to their number such as shall be saved.

Sabbath, Aug. 9, the brethren and sisters came together for a quarterly meeting at West Enosburgh. A goodly number had traveled more than twenty miles to attend this meeting. The brethren and sisters were greatly encouraged by the word spoken. Since last spring twelve have united with the church, and others will unite with us soon. I am glad that the good work is going on in this church. We were made happy in attending to the ordinances of the Lord's supper, and washing feet. "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." John xiii, 17.

A. C. Bourdeau.

West Enosburg, Vt., Aug. 17, 1863.