But suppose our industries bring in no returns, but are constant sources of expense; still the fact remains that great value comes through them to the boys and girls. There is a discipline gained in being obliged to do work thoroughly, and a self respect developed in them in the effort to earn something with which to pay expenses, instead of being carried like babies, that is simply invaluable.
MISSIONARY WORK AT NEW ORLEANS.
By Miss Lena Saunders.
The month just past has been replete with special Divine mercies, though marked by much sickness in the families of those interested in the school and church. One of our scholars went Home early in the month and another lies “waiting for the boatman” close by the river. She seems fully trusting in Jesus though suffering intensely and praying to die. She asks that all her schoolmates at the hall pray for her. She has walked six miles a day on her way to and from school, and now in her feeble talks dwells entirely upon the school and Heaven. My Sunday-school class has increased in numbers to 53. The little ones have been specially interested in the black-board exercises, and read the pictures in a peculiarly quaint way. The account of the “brass snake” lifted up in the wilderness particularly fascinated them. Reviewing the story of Balaam a few Sundays since, I asked the class what kind of man Balaam was, expecting them to remember the answer from the golden text. One little fellow replied “a double-jinted man.” The pastor opened the door in time to join in the smiling. I had to learn that “double-jointed” is a term applied to persons who say one thing and do another. The sewing-school is well attended. The mother’s meeting is making its influence felt by the regular members going out and bringing in those who attend no other service.
STORRS CHURCH, ATLANTA, GA
By Rev. Evarts Kent.
The Church is raising $30 per month on pastor’s salary, beginning from 1st of October last. I am sure you will be glad to know that we close the year with all indebtedness of every sort paid, and a trifling sum in the treasury. There was something of a deficiency, but we rallied last Wednesday evening and made it good. Besides, by vote of the Church at the same time, that was practically unanimous, we enrolled ourselves among the number of giving churches, pledging an annual contribution to the three missionary societies of our order, and another for church building. Our contributions may not be large; they will certainly be something. Congregation continues good. Bad weather has reduced somewhat the attendance at prayer meeting and Sunday-school; but both have been well attended and full of interest. Acting upon my suggestion at the Sunday-school concert, Christmas evening, the school brought birthday gifts to the Saviour in the form of remembrances for the poor; more than 100 packages were brought to the table; clothing, groceries, etc. It was most touching to witness the gifts brought to the Lord Jesus in this way from some of the very poorest of our children. The next morning, in a pouring rain, the pastor and deacons distributed these offerings. I hope our people gained some insight into the real meaning of the day.