Reverend George E. Smith sends an account of the refreshing, and in every way helpful labors of Reverend Henry E. Brown, during a few weeks’ visit to the churches of Raleigh. It will be remembered that Rev. Mr. Brown was connected with our work at Talladega, where, by his devoted and earnest labors, not only as Pastor and Professor of Theology, but as a missionary to the regions about, he established a number of churches and did much to ensure their success. He is now in the employ of the colored Y. M. C. Association of Raleigh, and is visiting the churches of the South under its auspices.
He reached Raleigh at noon on the 9th of February, and with characteristic zeal had visited every colored pastor of the city before night, and arranged for a meeting held that evening in the Congregational Church, which was crowded to overflowing. Three delegates of the Y. M. C. A., white, were present, and after hearing Bro. Brown’s plan of operations, cordially endorsed them, and proffered their assistance in carrying them out. Meetings for workers were held in the afternoon of each day; from this those who co-operated in the work went out to prayer-meetings in different parts of the city, and in the evening general meetings were held in the various churches.
Bro. Smith adds: There is now a revival going on in every colored church in the city, and we really feel that it is a revival of religion, not mere excitement.
Since Brother Brown came in our midst, over one hundred souls have been born into the kingdom of Christ. Many of the Sunday-school scholars have been led to reflect, and to accept the Saviour as their great head and teacher. Brother Brown’s labors among us have been a blessing to all. One minister said the other day, “My people have more religion than they used to have.” When asked why he thought so, he replied, “Because they are living better.”
It may be gratifying to the many friends of our little church to know that we have shared in this great blessing. At our next communion season, which is the first Sabbath in April, we expect a glorious time, as ten persons have already made application to unite with us at that time. There may be more, as there are many anxious ones who meet with us every night inquiring the way of salvation. Since Brother Brown left, we have still carried on the meetings.