Preaching the Gospel to the Poor

              From: Guerrant, The Galax Gatherers ( 1910)
PREACHING THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR
When Brother Bryan and I came in sight of our last summer’s camp, we found a pretty
white church standing near the spot where the big tent stood last July. We could hardly
believe it, but it was there, with the Sun, Moon and Stars painted over the door; a large,
nice frame church building, the first in this country, and the only one built entirely by the
inhabitants.
We hoped to rest on Saturday, but Dr. Saunders worked us from 9 A. M. to 4 P. M.,
except when he was working his troops in battalion drill. Acting on the suggestion to be
“ all things to all men,” and knowing the martial spirit of his people, he had organized a
company of fifty boys and girls, uniformed them in red caps, etc., and trained them in the
manual of arms ( and legs) and the Creed and Catechism.
I need not say it was well done. They marched and counter- marched up and down the
creek, and into the church ( his objective point), and sang “ When the Roll is Called Up
Yonder,” so as to stir the spirit of an old soldier.
I was glad he did not ask me to show them how to repeat the Creed and Catechism.
They knew it perfectly, without any assistance. It was a most interesting and instructive
exercise. It captures the wild boys and timid girls, and puts them in the Sabbath school,
and puts God’s truth in their hearts.
The girls are taught to cut and make garments, to sing and read; and the best singing
done in our meeting was done by this class. All honor to Mrs. Saunders and Mrs. Gordon,
the faithful teachers.
Sunday was the “ great day of the feast.” People came on foot and horse and mule- back,
and in wagons, for miles ( some twenty miles), and filled the church and porch and
outdoors.
Services began at 9 A. M.; at 11 we dedicated the new and beautiful church and
furnishings to the worship of God, who built the mountains and loves their simple-hearted
children. The church is handsomely papered and painted, with nice pews, carpet
and organ, good enough for anybody.
The handsome pulpit Bible was the gift of Mrs. Mc- Campbell, of Versailles, and the
elegant silver Communion service the gift of Mrs. Dr. J. N. Saunders, whose beloved
husband was so long an honor to his church and State.
Twelve persons united with the church on profession today, amid great rejoicing. At 5
P. M. we sent the reluctant people home.
This evening Brother Bryan received a telegram from Birmingham, Alabama,