THE STOCKTON-ON-TEES MISSION.
In response to a united invitation from the clergy and ministers of Stockton-on-Tees, Mr Moody condueted a three days' mission there last week. commeneing on Wednesday. During the previous week a meeting for prayer had been held daily in the library of Y. M.C.A., at which it was made evident that there was not only fervent desire for, but great expectation of, blsesing as the result of the mission. Wednesday being market day in Stockton, Mr Moody's first meeting, which was held in the afternoon, was attended by a large number of people from the country districts roundabout. The Exchange Hall accommodating over two thousand, was well-filled in every part. Mr Moody took for his subject, "Come unto Mevall ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Many afterwards asked prayer for themselves or others.
In the evening the hall was densely packed in every corner, and it was found needful, as on each of the succeeding evenings, to hold an overflow meeting in an adjoining hall where addresses were given by Mr Telford and Mr Mollison. Mr Burke sang solos at both meetings. Of Mr Moody's addresses it is not easy to say which were felt to be the most impressive; but, if any be specially mentioned, those on "Sowing and Reaping" and the " New Birth," and his address to parents on Friday afternoon, may be named. A special meeting for Christian workers was held on Friday morning, when Mr Moody spoke on the work of the Holy Spirit; and his preaching on that occasion was felt to be "in demonstration of the Spirit and of power." That message itself had he spoken no other, was enough to render his visit memorable and give occasion for thankfulness. Of the results of the mission, in cases of decision, it is impossible at this early date to speak with certainty: but after the first meeting for inquirers, which was held on the second evening; upwards of fifty names were handed in by the workers, and as many, if not more, on the Friday evening, and it is known that a large number of Christian people have had their spiritual life stirred and quickened.
The mission was brought to a close on Sunday evening by a meeting conducted by the clergy and ministers of the town. The suggestion was made, and well received, that the clergy. and ministers of the town should organise themselves into an Evangelistic Association, with a view to the conduct of united Mission as occasion offers. Thus ministers and workers of all denominations have been brought closer together, and it is felt that there is much occasion for profound thankfulness to the great Head of the Church for the visit of his servant to Stockton-on-Tees.
From, "The Christian." July 28th, 1892.
I do not know where the Exchange was. The marker is where I believe the YMCA stood.