p. 1 | Our Conference by A. S. Hutchins

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 28, 1864

Our Conference.

By A. S. Hutchins

THE State Conference which has just closed in this place, was one of encouragement and comfort to all the dear saints assembled. Our meetings were characterized by harmony, Christian love, and an increasing union among preachers and people. The march of truth is onward.

As we looked upon the people of God gathered from Vermont and Canada East, for his worship, in the new Meeting-House for the first time, we could not but contrast the present pleasing prospect, with eight years ago this month, when we here first visited Bro. A. C. Bourdeau. We there found five keeping the Sabbath, with little light on the third message; but the seed sown just then springing up, has been bearing fruit, till under the faithful labors and good example of the brethren Bourdeau, we find a large and growing church, with a house of worship, 35x48. To the Lord belongeth all praise!

The necessity and practical bearing of organization, we can see more and more clearly. Bible order carries a blessing with it for all who receive it and walk agreeably thereunto. It is developing the different gifts and bringing the members of the body into their place. Men of years, good experience and sound judgment, are standing up as counselors, teachers, and preachers of the good word of life, whom God blesses more and more, with all his humble faithful people.

May the Lord help us all to seek for our place in the body, to find it and keep it; and ever feel to say, "Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth." And let us all ever bear in mind, that, "before honor is humility."

A. S. HUTCHINS.

West Enosburgh, Vt., June 7. 1864.