Bodcaw Church

(1916-1927?)

The Gospel Messenger Aug. 12 1916 page 520 Vol. 65 No, 33

Three were baptized at a new point near Taylor, Ark., where Bro. Ira P. Eby, of Cabool, Mo., has been doing some preaching in the face of considerable opposition. July 29 a new congregation, to be known as Bodcaw, was started. There are good prospects for further accessions.

The Gospel Messenger Aug. 19, 1916 page 542 Vol. 65 No. 34

July 16 I closed the meetings near Canfield, Ark., and the same evening I began preaching in an arbor within two and one-half miles of Taylor, Ark., and eight miles from the former place of meeting. Those opposing us had left no stone unturned in their efforts to defeat us, and so we had it announced at a Baptist church that morning that we would explain our attitude toward the colored people and what our Sunday-school literature said about them. Our opponents were all there and ready for a disturbance if they could possibly raise one. We failed to supply ourselves with a quarterly, but they promptly furnished us with one, giving the page, all in an air of supposed victory, but when we were through with our explanation, the large crowd showed signs of entire satisfaction. Our opposes were silenced and lost no time in leaving the ground as soon as we dismissed. They failed to return.

   Increasing interest was manifested during the entire meeting. Many of the leading business men from Taylor were out and all with one accord said, " We have heard strange things." Two were baptized and others were almost persuaded but desired time for investigation.

  July 29 we met at Bro. Blackquell's, where we organized the members into a working body to be known as the Bodcaw church. Bro. Jesse Rich was elected to the ministry. The same evening the members surrounded the Lord's table, where we all derived great spiritual strength. One more was baptized on Sunday, our new minister performing the rite. We earnestly solicit the prayers of the faithful in behalf of the work at this new point, and if any of our ministers are passing that way and can stop, they will be welcomed. This is a good place to get good land very cheap. We desire, in behalf of the Bodcaw church, sincerely to thank all those who contributed to -this work and made it possible. Ira P. Eby. Cabool, Mo., Aug. 3.