But there are some very commendable things about these brethren.  I noticed careful attention being given to the public reading of the Scriptures, and the congregation joins heartily in the singing.  I am informed that every member takes part in the contribution without exception.  They do not take contributions from visitors and children who are not disciples.  The talent in the congregation is well developed.  In this they are far ahead of us.  While there are not many giving their whole time to evangelistic work, there are many who are acceptable speakers.  One brother said they probably have a preacher for each twenty-five members.  Men heavily involved in business take time to attend the meetings.  For instance, one brother, who is at the head of a factory employing about a thousand people, and is interested in mining and in the manufacture of brick besides, is an active member of the congregation with which he worships.  The brethren in general are faithful in the matter of being present at the breaking of bread.  When visiting brethren come in, they are given a public welcome, and are sometimes pointed out to the congregation.  Also, when brethren return from a vacation or other prolonged absence, they are given a welcome.

They pray much.  The week-night meeting for prayer and study of the Bible is largely taken up with prayer.  I like the way they point out definite objects of prayer.  For instance, two sisters are leaving for Canada; some one is out of employment, and some have lost friends by death.  These matters are mentioned, and some one is called on to lead the prayer, and these points are included in his petition to the Lord.  Sometimes but one brother is asked to lead in prayer; sometimes more than one are designated, and at other times they leave it open for some one to volunteer.  The following hymn was sung in one of these meetings which I attended: 

  LET US PRAY.

  Come, let us pray; ’tis sweet to feel
    That God himself is near;
  That, while we at his footstool kneel,
    His mercy deigns to hear;
  Though sorrows crowd life’s dreary way,
  This is our solace—­let us pray.

  Come, let us pray; the burning brow,
    The heart oppressed with care,
  And all the woes that throng us now,
    May be relieved by prayer;
  Jesus can smile our griefs away;
  Oh, glorious thought! come, let us pray.

  Come, let us pray; the mercy-seat
    Invites the fervent prayer,
  And Jesus ready stands to greet
    The contrite spirit there;
  Oh, loiter not, nor longer stay
  From him who loves us; let us pray.