gregation be much. But when measured by their ability, this collection would put to shame the most of our congregations in Christian lands. Taking everything into consideration, I have not seen people in any other country who are more liberal in their contributions to the Church than the members of our village Church. Now the preacher announces the Scripture lesson to be read, giving chapter and verse. He pauses while the people take their New Testaments and turn to the place to be read. He must wait till they all find it if he wishes to be heard, for nearly every one who can read has a New Testament (the translation of the Old Testament has not yet been completed), and will not be satisfied until the place is found, so the reading may be followed with eye as well as with ear. Then the preacher preaches, and keeps at it just as long as he wishes, for the law of our village congregation does not demand that he stop as soon as the clock has succeeded in ticking off thirty minutes. If he preaches an hour, it is all right, and in many instances I have seen the service go right on for three or four hours. However, these long services are not the rule, but I mention the fact here to show that our people are willing to spend a long time in a service when occasion demands it. At the close of the sermon the preacher is embarrassed because he has so many people who would be glad to lead in prayer that it is hard for him to decide upon whom to call. Not only the men, but the women as well, are ready to lead in prayer any time they are called upon to do so. As a rule, any baptized member will lead in prayer, if asked to do so.
