Ottawa Church

(1892-)

The Gospel Messenger Oct. 4, 1892 page 621 Vol. 30 No. 39

From the Ottawa Church, Franklin Co., Kans

  August 27, the brethren and sisters living in the near the city of Ottawa assembled in council, with adjoining elders, and engaged earnestly in a work which was thought necessary to properly carry on the the Master’s work in this part of this vineyard.  These members were duly organized into a body known as the “Ottawa Church,” which church comprises thirty members, one minister, Joseph N. Morrow, and one deacon, Jacob Brunk.  Bro. Isaac Shoemaker was appointed Treasurer, sister Mary Read, Clerk, and Fanny Morrow, Corresponding Secretary.  Bro. I Crist was chosen elder in charge.  We desire the prayers of all God’s faithful ones, and would gladly welcome any brethren and sisters who will come and settle in our territory; especially are official members needed.

  Through the lovingkindness of our Heavenly Father, the Ottawa church held a love-feast on Friday, Sept. 6, in Forest Park, - a most convenient and beautiful place for such a meeting.  Charming scenery and lovely weather greeted the eyes and gladdened the hearts of all who came.  We often hear the expression concerning earthly parents and children, “There is a family resemblance.”  Sweet melody of sacred song soon called all into the house appointed for worship, and the first song service taught us that being “On the Way,” we might look for “Showers of Blessing.”  Truly they did come, - sweet refreshing showers of spiritual life and love.  At two o’clock we had preaching, - after which we repaired to the riverside where two sisters were buried with Christ in baptism.  Angels rejoiced and so may we, that two more souls were saved and our number increased to thirty-two.

  In the evening after examination service, eighty-nine of our Father’s children surrounded the tables, and the usual ordinances were observed with solemnity.  Nine ministers were present Eld. Jesse Studebaker officiated.  God grant that all may prove faithful and finally in –

                                    “The promised land,

                                    Where thousands dwell,

            Who’ve washed their robes in Jesus’ blood,

            With then we’ll wave the branch of palm

            When we have crossed the narrow flood.”

  We had two good sermons on Saturday, also on Sunday in the same place.  Thus ended the first love-feast held by the Ottawa church.  O, what a power is represented by the one word love-feast!

Fanny Morrow.