Reports from Wisconsin Churches
By John Matteson
Bro. White: According to appointment I held a few meetings in Markesan, commencing April 18. The Universalist meeting-house was kindly opened to us. These meetings were poorly attended, partly on account of stormy weather. After this I attended the Quarterly Meeting at Mackford. We had a heavy snow-storm, and we were but a few together, yet the Lord was with us, and we felt encouraged to press forward with the remnant people. The Lord has some faithful soldiers here, but the church needs a shaking to arouse those dormant members who are neither cold nor hot, that they may either repent or be shaken off. Then God can more freely bless his waiting flock, and pour out the refreshing from his presence. Brethren, press together, and let your works show that you have living faith in God. April 24, we commenced a series of meetings at Marquette. The attendance was good, and the brethren manifested a deep interest in the salvation of sinners. I can truly say that the brethren stand more united now than they have in time past, and I feel very thankful to our heavenly Father for his kind smiles upon us. But still evil angels are hovering round, and seem determined not to let go their hold in Marquette. May the Lord help his people to search their hearts thoroughly, and to break down every barrier in the way, that the Lord may work for them in great power. In Poy Sippi the brethren were not in the best condition. The enemy had tried to scatter and divide. But the Lord heard us when we cried to him in our distress. At our Quarterly Meeting, we had a solemn, heart-searching time. The Lord was with us, and showed us a way in the dark. Light appeared and we were refreshed. Two members were disfellowshipped, but two others decided to go with the remnant of God's people, and were received. One I had the pleasure of baptizing. May 8, I commenced lectures in Fremont. This is a new place. A hall was opened for us, which was hired for the use of all religious denominations. The people turned out well in general. Some evenings the house was crowded. I stayed two weeks and held twenty meetings. The community was stirred up, and many were convinced that our principles were sound, moral, and scriptural. Four decided to keep the Sabbath of the Lord. I will stop at this place again on my return, and hope to see the work go on. May the Lord strengthen the weak, and move forward his own precious cause. Appleton, Wis., May 22, 1865.