LIBERIAN MISSIONS
Sinou
The following extract is from a letter written by Rev. R. E.
Murray, missionary at Sinou. It refers to the encouraging success
which has attended his labors. Under the date Sept. 1 4th, 1S53, he
says:
This day ten years ago, I landed at Monrovia, a poor,
distressed, shipwrecked man, with a family wholly dependent on
me for subsistence. My feelings cannot be described; but I trusted
in God, who has never forsaken me. When I look back at the
various events that have transpired since them, I cannot but love
and adore the mercy and goodness of my heavenly Father, who has
provided abundantly for me and mine. 1 have had many things to
perplex me and disturb my mind. Often have I been called to
patrol the streets in the darkest hour of the night, when the few
men in our settlement were worn out with the fatigue of watching
night after night, expecting to be assailed by the natives. I have
passed through all the difficulties of a new settlement, excepting
that of actual war. I have seen the population of this country
increase from 230 to above 1200; the Baptists from 3 to 160. And
this day, what duties have I been called to perform? I begun the
day by receiving three members by letters, and one convert by
experience. Next, to act as physician. My next duty was to
perform funeral services over the oldest member in the church, she
about 82 years of age; then my regular duties of the day. After
morning service we proceeded to the river and baptized one
believer. There were two other candidates, but sickness compelled
them to stay away. The Lord’s supper was administered in the
afternoon, — it was rendered deeply interesting by the presence of
several members from the United States. When reflecting on my
situation in this country, I feel assured, that the ways of men are
directed by God.
Sept. 5th. I have nearly completed a small native chapel at
Kroo Town, for the accommodation of the scholars, and those of
the adults who attend divine service there. Such a house is
essentially necessary, and I believe much good will arise from it.
At present, it is quite difficult to fix the attention of the children, or
even grown persons; they are disturbed by any trifle that may
occur. Several of the members have offered their services, to
conduct the Sabbath school at Kroo Town, from which we expect
