Report from Bro. Lawrence.
By R. J. Lawrence
Bro. White: My last report was from Ithaca, June 19. From this, I went to North Star, where I gave four discourses in the school-house near Bro. Mellinger's. There is some interest. From this I went to Matherton. Here I spoke five times, and baptized two. The most of those that lately professed the truth here, have given it up. Some two or three are holding on. The 29th I went to Orange. The 30th, with Bro. Howe, I visited Bro. Davis at Ionia. He is in the last stages of consumption. He is resigned, and expects soon to sleep in hope of being brought up again with Christ. We prayed with him, and parted in hope of meeting again in the kingdom. I spent Sabbath and first-day July 1 and 2, with the church in Orange. Spoke five times, baptized four, and partook of the ordinances. This little church are struggling for the victory. From this I came to Greenbush, and spent with them the 4th and 5th of July. Two loads of brethren and sisters were from Ithaca. We had a very agreeable 4th, while we contrasted the objects and prospects of the masses with ours. The few here are holding on, and expressed themselves much edified and strengthened by the testimony borne. I gave four discourses here, and attended to the ordinances. The 8th and 9th, I spent in St. Charles. Spoke six times, and attended to the ordinances. This church appears firm, but there is not that lively interest manifested that the times seem to demand. Monday, the 10th, I spent with the church in Chessaning. This church has been passing through deep trial and affliction. The crooked and unchristian conduct of their former elder, who has now left the truth, has brought a great reproach upon the cause here, and some others also have given up the truth, while some of their much-loved members have been stricken down in death. We had a business meeting which resulted very happily. The Spirit of the Lord was with us to cement our hearts, and to encourage them anew to take hold of the work of the Lord. I spoke twice, seemingly much to their encouragement. From this, I came to Owasso. Here we had three meetings. The church are firm in the truth. The brethren so far are taking hold of the health reform. May the Lord speed the work of reform, until holiness54shall be perfected, and God's people be prepared for translation.