Experiences in Australia

In Australia

We entered Sydney Harbor at seven o’clock on the morning of December 8. The sea rolled heavily during the night, and it was difficult to keep safely in our berths; but all our party were able to be on deck when we entered the harbor, which is one of the most beautiful in the world. Before we reached the landing, we could see our friends on shore, and could distinguish Brother and Sister Daniells, the only ones present whom we knew. (16) Soon a hearty and tender welcome was accorded us. After a wholesome and well prepared breakfast at Brother Daniells, our party, with the canvassers, Bible workers, and a few friends, united in a precious season of worship. EA 9.1

We remained in Sydney one week, and had an opportunity to see something of this large and beautiful city. I spoke to the people twice, at the commencement of the Sabbath and on Sabbath morning. The Lord gave me a special freedom, and the people rejoiced in the message of truth, which, as they testified, filled their hearts with joy and peace and the love of God. Brother Starr spoke on Sunday evening with good acceptance. EA 9.2

On reaching Melbourne, [Wed.] Dec. 16, we found our friends at the station waiting for us, some whom we knew, and some whom we did not know, and we were heartily welcomed by all. Horses and carriages were waiting, and conveyed us two or three miles to the Echo Office. In Federal Hall, in the office building, we found a large company assembled to welcome us to Australia, and to unite with us in thanksgiving to God for his preserving and tender care during the long passage across the water. Elder Starr, W.C. White and myself each addressed a few words to those whom we were meeting now for the first time in a new country; (17) and as we united in a season of prayer, the Lord blessed us together. After the benediction, we were introduced to many of the brethren and sisters. EA 9.3

On Sabbath, Dec. 19, I spoke in Federal Hall. I had freedom and my soul was blessed as I spoke the words of life to an attentive audience. There was a social meeting in the afternoon, when many precious testimonies were borne. My heart was made glad in the Lord, and I could not but exclaim, “What hath God wrought?” as I looked upon this large company who had accepted the Bible just as it reads, and heard them speak of their faith. Humility in obedience to God is a hard lesson for fallen humanity to learn. There is something in the human, unsanctified heart that rises up in opposition to inspired truth, when it requires separation from former associations and customs in taking a position on the Sabbath which the Lord has blessed and sanctified as his memorial of creation. May the light of those who have had the courage and sincerity and simplicity of faith, shine forth in good works, that more may be added to the faith, of such as shall be saved. EA 9.4

On [Fri, 25] Christmas day our hall was full. Many had come in from Sydney, Adelaide, and Ballarat, and the smaller churches. (18) The Lord gave me much of his Spirit as I spoke of the first advent of Christ, when angels heralded his birth to the watching shepherds and sang their glad songs above the hills of Bethlehem. EA 9.5

We could see in the people here the intelligence, heartiness, and simplicity that characterize the lovers of the truth in America. Many expressed gratitude to God that he had sent his servants to Australia. EA 9.6