The American Missionary — Volume 48, No. 10, October, 1894 by Various
page 18 of 97 (18%)
page 18 of 97 (18%)
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and to the Christian public generally, came to look after the interests
of the Waldensean colony not long after their first settlement. In conference with Drs. Tron and Prochet, and after learning thoroughly the condition of their colony, an appropriation was voted by the Executive Committee to assist them in the beginning of their work, as they were in great need of such help. These Waldenses have begun their settlement in America in a wise and sensible way. Let us notice their business-like arrangement before speaking of the interesting educational and religious work which has developed among them with the assistance of the Association. They have purchased five thousand acres of land. In dividing this land, they first set aside a portion for a church and manse, together with a small farm for the use of the pastor. Then they set aside a good, commodious site for the school-house. After this a considerable portion of the land, three thousand five hundred acres in extent, is divided into farms of fifty acres each. In addition to this first company who came on the Kaiser Wilhelm, others have come at various times until there is a considerable colony there. These people are poor. They come from the splendid stock of Waldenses who have been so potent a factor in freeing thousands in France and Italy from the degrading superstitions of Romanism. As all our readers know, the Waldenses have stood for religious freedom from first to last The fibre of their character has been tested through many a conflict. Dr. Edward Everett Hale, who told the story of the Waldensean heroism and devotion in the beautiful legend "In His Name," brings out the noble features of their character in soft, yet bright colors. It is most fitting that our Congregational churches through the Association should |
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