When the movement began with yourselves in Glasgow, we also had meetings for prayer that the Lord might visit us with an outpouring of His Holy Spirit.
The attendance at the time referred to was not much better than formerly, until about the beginning of February, when we were visited by two of the Irish converts, who had been labouring in Oban and Inverary previously. All at once the churches here and at Kilmalie and Ballachulish were crowded with earnest and attentive audiences. The Spirit of prayer was poured out abundantly,—God's people were revived,—the work of conviction and conversion began chiefly among the young men and women, and O! when I think that some of my own family are among the number what shall I render to the Lord for all His gracious benefits?
It is impossible to state positively the number of converts, as I believe there are not a few hidden ones, known only to the Chief Shepherd, but I think I am within the mark when I say that upwards of 150 at least have been brought to a knowledge of the truth in the parish, including Ballachulish.
There are no outward manifestations such as striking down. Convinced souls sometimes get peace and joy in a few hours, then, again, they are under a cloud and deep distress, from which they emerge to get fresh and more glorious views of the "Sun of Righteousness." Others, again, continue in an anxious state for weeks, hoping and praying on, but yet unable to say that they have found the Saviour. - The effect on the morals of the people is no less marked. I have not seen but one person the worse of liquor on our streets for the last two months, nor have I heard a profane oath in the village for the same period. I may also state that I know of four cases of Roman Catholics, of whom we entertain good hopes; at all events, they are attending our meetings in the face of every opposition, and I heard one of them engage in prayer.
Prayer meetings have been instituted and are attended by large numbers in parts of the parish where formerly there were none. We have daily meetings for prayer in this village, and there is a young men's meeting for which I request the prayers of God's people in the Wynd Church.
It is the most interesting meeting I ever attended in my life. The earnestness, the soundness of their views, and the effect is truly marvellous. Old people are moved to tears, and I confess I never felt so much humbled as when listening to their simple petitions.
"The Wynd Journal," April 7th, 1860.
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