OCTOBER 14TH, 1939

OCTOBER 14TH, 1939

Mr. A. B. Parker.

Beloved Brother, — Your letter of August 1st is still unanswered, and so I send a line now. We are en route to New Zealand, with over 100 brothers and sisters aboard, returning from the special meetings at Sydney. All are greatly cheered, the Lord having made the occasion truly a ‘holy convocation’, in which I may say the saints were ‘wholly joyful’.

It was indeed a time to be remembered — far beyond anything of the kind hitherto south of the equator. A remarkable representation of brethren attended the meetings and the fellowship generally very sweet. It is said 1,000 brothers — or nearly so — attended the readings and 2,200 to 2,500 the addresses. The only drawback was somewhat poor hearing, especially at the addresses — the hall is very large. But the Notes, as published, will make up the loss somewhat. An outline is made, and copies will reach New York, I am sure.

Supplication was made to God that no distressing public — war — events should occur during the period of the meetings and the brethren were kept very restful, which was a mercy. After the special meetings a large number of brethren visited Newcastle for two days and the Lord gave a sweet time.

Now we are on our way to New Zealand, as I said, where ^[p. 157] we purpose visiting most of the large cities for a month, and then sailing by the Mariposa, God willing, to Los Angeles on November 13th.

Occurrences in New York and New Jersey have caused us distress, but we are assured of God’s merciful hand being over all and that needed exercises will come about and ultimate blessing — through discipline — will accrue. Our prayers go up for you all.

My wife unites in love in Christ to you both and the children and to all the brethren as you have opportunity.

Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.