NEW YORK CONVENTION

Our friends will be pleased to see the following program of an all-day meeting held in the New York district. They chose a special theme, and considered its various aspects. We will be glad to hear of more of such meetings, seeking to spread the great truths God has entrusted to us.

CONFERENCES

The following conferences have been held during the past few months In various parts of the world in support of the truths we love. The New York and Brooklyn Ecclesias met in a two day Bible Conference Sunday, July 2, and Tuesday, July 4. Elders Arthur Benta, John Woodyear, Wesley Bailey. J. B. Reefe, Edwin C. Kling, A. T. Johnson, W. Turp, Sister M. Kerr, and Reverends George Wulfken and Leon A. Bynoe were among those who actively participated. A united gathering of all the ecclesias in England was held Sunday, May 7, in Sheffield, England. Speakers included Brother E. H. Clayton of Sheffield, H. R. Noble of Beeston, and E. G. Jones of Mansfield.

FROM THE FIELD

The saints in New York report encouraging progress in their work of ministering by mail to inquirers in Nigeria, Africa. Some years ago, we requested Bro. Benta to help us with this work, which was becoming increasingly heavy, and he kindly consented to do so. Many Bibles and portions of the Concordant Version have been distributed and letters of appreciation show that they are taking effect.

Sunday, April 29th, was the date of the Spring Bible Conference in New York City. As this is written, it is too early to have a report but we do have a copy of the program, which includes a praise service conducted by Bro. A. Benta, A Symposium on "The Grace of God" by Bros. W. Turp and W. Bailey, an address by Elder J. B. Reefe entitled "Will all be Saved--What say the Scriptures?" in addition to various musical numbers during the morning session, and during the afternoon session a prayer and testimony service conducted by Bro. J. Woodyear, reports on missionary activities in Jamaica, Panama, Nigeria, and West Africa, by Bro. E. C. Kling, who also acted as chairman of the conference. The closing address by Bro. L. A. Bynoe is on the subject of "Human Government," and we note that the group have also issued a leaflet on this subject. The conference was held at the Bible Truth Church of God. E. O. K.

ANNUAL BIBLE CONFERENCE

July 4th and 5th marked the dates of the conference held each year by the saints in New York City. Inasmuch as the program reached us just too late for the September issue, we will say simply that a blessed and joyful time it was, and that the friends there continue in their efforts to make the truth known through their publication, "Grace and Truth." If you have not seen a copy, it can be had by writing to GRACE AND TRUTH, P. O. Box 28, Morningside Station, New York 26 N.Y. U.S.A., or telephoning Monument 2-0714. The Editorial staff consists of Edwin C. Kling, William Mealand, John H. Essex, C. J. Peart and Leon A. Bynoe.

SPRING BIBLE CONFERENCE

Sunday, April 12th, marked the date of the Spring Conference in New York, which was held at the Bible Truth Church of God, 115 West 118th Street. The text for the day was 1 Tim.4:15, "On these things meditate. In these be, that your progress may be apparent to all." Presiding was Bro. Edwin C. Kling, one of the editors of "Grace and Truth." Speakers included Bros. L. A. Bynoe, Wesley Bailey, and A. Benta. A Symposium on the subject of "The Terrestrial Destiny of Israel and The Celestial Destiny of the Church" was conducted by Bros. Wm. Turp and J. Woodyear. Luncheon, Song Services, etc., completed the day, and the reports we have received indicate that it proved a blessing to all who attended. E. O. K.

REPORT OF THE NEW YORK CONFERENCE

On Sunday, July 3, 1955, the semi-annual Conference on Scriptural Themes was held by the New York City ecclesia in the YMCA building, 180 W. 135th Street, New York City. A very full program was scheduled, including addresses by Bros. E.C. Kling, A. Benta, J. Matthews, J. Woodyear, W. Bailey, and W. Turp. There were also three song services held. The conference continued the following day, July 4, in the home of Bro. and Sister J. B. Reefe, which was devoted to a more informal fellowship. The theme for the second day was "Deliverance."

JUSTINA NESTOR

One of the founders of the New York Ecclesia, a believer in and staunch advocate of Concordant truth since 1924, our Sister Nestor was laid to rest in December, 1959. Brother Arthur Benta, assisted by Wesley Bailey, conducted the services. Born in Barbadoes, W. I., Sister Nestor had resided in New York for fifty years. Even in infirmity, which had overtaken her of recent years, her spirit was an inspiration to all with whom she came in contact. We shall see our dear Sister again-perhaps very soon!

CONCORDANT CONFERENCE IN NEW YORK

Sunday, January first, was a day of fellowship at the Y.M.C.A. Music Room on 135th Street in New York City. The theme of the meeting was "Be Rejoicing in the Lord always" (Phil.4:4). Included in the morning session was a discussion of God's Eonian Purpose by Brother A. Benta, and a question session. In the afternoon, Brother E. C. Kling gave a talk on "Is Punishment (so-called) Eternal?", and Brother L. A. Bynoe spoke on the purpose of punishment. The evening session consisted of a symposium on the subject "Rejoice in the Lord Always," conducted by Brothers W. Turp and E. Duncan. E.O.K.

UNITED GATHERINGS

At the United Gathering at East Kirby, Notts., England, some 70 friends gathered in fellowship and meditation on Sunday, April 8th. The theme for the day was set by Brother E. H. Clayton in the prayer of the Philippian Epistle; Philippians 1:9-11. His thoughts in connection with the word "sensibility" as it relates to discrimination in the things of consequence set a standard that was carried on by Brother M. Strutliers in his message on "Straying and Staying," while Brother T. Harris reminded those present of the things "Given by God" in Ephesians one. On Sunday, June 13th, a good company gathered at Manchester (England), for fellowship and praise. It was a joy to have Brother L. A. Bynoe of "Grace and Truth" magazine (of New York City) speak to us for a brief period about their objects and labours and the "Epistles of Paul." In addition, Brother E. H. Clayton gripped our attention with his message on the "Prayer of the Colossian Epistle," while Brother D. Bradford warmed our hearts with his witness to his growing realization of the truths of God. In the evening Brother E. G. Jones spoke to us of "The Chosen of God"-- not because of what many were but because He would use them according to His purpose and glory. Those who attended these two gatherings will long remember them, looking forward to further United Gatherings during the remainder of the year. E.G.J.

LIFE'S WORK ENDED

On September 13, 1962, Sister Mabel Kerr of the Concordant Scripture Students of Harlem, New York City, was put to repose. During the eleven years of illness, she suffered six strokes, and was fully reconciled to the will of God, Whose sufficient grace was outstanding during her shut-in years. Her influence in her home and her community will long be felt, for she was a faithful witness to the truth. Her devout confidence in God, and her patience and graciousness manifested a true realization of the truth in Christ Jesus. Her fortitude and faith was well known to all with whom she came in contact. A memorial service was conducted at the Benta Funeral Chapel, New York City, by E. C. Kling; participating were Rev. L. A. Bynoe, Brother J. W. Bailey, Sisters Nelson and Hughes, vocalists, and Elder Benta, who gave testimony of the truth which Sister Kerr loved, to a large number of sorrowing hearts gathered to pay their last respects to this faithful servant of God. She is survived by her husband, one daughter, and two sons. She is loved--and lost awhile--but we shall meet again, perhaps sooner than we think, when we shall see Him Who loved her best. E.C.K.

LABOR DAY CONFERENCE

A very Interesting conference on scriptural themes was held on Labor Day, at the Bible Truth Church of God, New York City. The program of the day was filled with promise of good things, and anyone who attended, even for part of the day, can testify that blessing was in abundance. The morning and afternoon praise services were conducted by Brother E. Duncan. The address of welcome was given by Brother E. C. Kling. The morning address on the subject, "The More Excellent Way," was given by Brother A. Benta, an able exponent of the truth. The love of which he spoke is fervent enough to melt the most frigid heart. The afternoon address on the subject, "Be Pursuing Love," was given by Rev. B. A. Hughes, and in it was shown the need for feeding, showing and guarding love, lest our hearts grow cold. Rev. Bynoe, Sister Nelson and Brother Duncan gave glowing reports of the progress of the work in England and in the West Indies. Sister Nelson and Brother Duncan attended the annual conference held in Jamaica and gave a detailed account of the activities, the hopes and aspirations of the ecclesias there. The evening praise and "say-so" service was conducted by Rev. Hughes. Much eagerness was shown by the friends to offer thanksgiving for the blessing of the day and their testimonies were inspiring. Rev. L. A. Bynoe introduced his subject--"Universal Reconciliation"--one that is dear to the hearts of Concordant Scripture Students, and which other groups have been tardy to embrace. Yet, from recent church conferences come reports that the light is dawning upon them too. Throughout the day vocal music was rendered by Sisters Hughes and Matthews to the enjoyment and blessing of all. For the convenience of the conferees, the banquet table was set up at the Church in Fellowship Hall, where service was gladly rendered by the sisters. E.C.K.

JOHN WOODYEAR

Brother John Woodyear of the Bronx, New York, was put to repose on April 30, 1963, in his eighty-first year. His health had been gradually failing during the past few years; nevertheless his death came as a great shock, after only a few days' Illness. He was born in Trinidad, West Indies, June 9, 1882. In the days of his youth, he became associated with the I.B.S.A., from which he obtained his basic training in the Bible, becoming an ardent student of the Scriptures. In 1925, In the providence of God, he became interested in Concordant teaching, from which he learned about God's eonian purpose in Christ. This teaching became the passion of his life. Having met a group of brethren in New York City, known as the Concordant Scripture Students, he associated himself with them, became an able teacher and preacher of the Word of God, and was much appreciated in the ecclesia. He had an unusual grasp of the truth for today and of the eventual outcome in the purpose of God for all mankind, in which knowledge he reveled, and which, with great delight, he shared with others. Brother Woodyear was a meek and mild person; he was very out-going to others; easy to approach. His was a ready smile, his greeting cordial, when meeting those whom he knew. Sincere sympathy and love in the Lord are extended to his wife, Flora, two brothers, one sister and a number of cousins, nieces and nephews. A host of friends and fellow-associates in the evangel mourn his absence from the body. The funeral service was held at the Benta Funeral Home, New York City, May 3, 1963. It was conducted by Brother Arthur Benta, overseer of Bible Truth Church of God, assisted by Rev. B. A. Hughes and Rev. E. C. Kling, who gave the address. Also assisting was Brother J. W. Bailey, of the Concordant Tabernacle, Brooklyn, which he represented. Sisters Thelma Harris and Lilian Hughes from Bible Truth Church were the soloists. Interment was made May 4, 1963 in the Ferncliff Cemetery, Hartsdale, New York, officiated by Brother Arthur Benta and Rev. B. A. Hughes. On Sunday, May 5, 1963, a memorial service, honoring the memory of the deceased brother, was held at the Bible Truth Church of God. Reposing, he will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him in the Lord. However, there is the happy expectation of being re-united in that glad day of Christ's appearing. Until then, we say, "Good night, beloved brother!" E.C.KLING

ENGLAND

Passing through Austria, we returned to Germany and back to Sweden via Holland. We visited other relatives in the Stockholm area, thence back to Gothenburg to turn in our car for shipment back to the United States. From there we went to London by plane, and by train to Nottingham in time for the United Gathering in Stapleford on Sunday, September 20. There we enjoyed hearing talks by Brother Fielding and Brother Harris. This was the last sermon Brother Harris ever preached, and his obituary appears in the November issue of Unsearchable Riches. On Wednesday he was stricken with a stroke, and never recovered. Through the kindness of Brother and Sister John Essex, we were able to visit him in the hospital at Tamworth, and have prayer with him, before leaving the area. Though unable to speak, he greeted us warmly and was obviously glad of our presence. His kindly ministry will be sadly missed by the friends in England. In Beeston we were entertained at the home of Brother and Sister Frank Orton. On Sunday night Alberta was stricken with a heart attack, which was quite serious. She was forced to remain in bed there for about a week. Yet even in this, the Lord provided, for our agent for Britain, Brother Edgar Jones, is by profession a medical herbalist, and he very kindly came a considerable distance each day to care for her, and provided the needed medicines, so that, by the time scheduled for departure from England, Alberta was able to ride to the airport. Joyce Orton was kind enough to drive us all the way to London in her car. We shall never forget the many kindnesses extended to us by the Ortons. They are surely "pursuing hospitality." In addition to ourselves, they also entertained Brother Maurice Ritchie from northern Ireland, and it was a joy to get to know this brother personally, for he is our agent for that area. A conference with Brother Clayton was arranged, for he is our chief helper and advisor in Greek and Hebrew now that my father is no longer able to serve. Brother and Sister Clayton entertained me in their home, as did Brother and Sister Edgar Jones. Alberta had to forego this pleasure because of her illness. Brother B. Davies very kindly served as "nurse" when needed. He is Joyce Orton's father. When we reached Sweden, we had a few days of rest, then boarded the MS Gripsholm for New York. The sea voyage was relaxing and quite enjoyable. We were met at the dock in New York by the Bynoes and the Klings of Grace and Truth, and taken to the home of Brother Kerr in New York. Here we spent a couple of days awaiting the arrival and unloading of our car. It was a joy to renew acquaintance with the saints there, and compare notes. When our car was ready at Port Newark, Sister Una Nelson took us over there, and another car load of friends (already mentioned) also went to see us off. We drove to Allentown, Pennsylvania, that night, where we were privileged to fellowship with the Walter Pollitts. While being entertained there, we also visited the home of Brother and Sister Wilbur C. Roth. As time was running out, we made no further stops but drove straight through to Saugus, stopping only for the night. Our car performed admirably, and we had no trouble with it for the entire 7000 miles, for which we are very thankful. We hope to have a fuller account of our trip in our holiday season letter. We were indeed blessed by the contacts made on this trip, and thankful that the Lord made it possible. Yours in His blessed service, Alberta and Ernest Knoch.

GRACE AND TRUTH

Described as "A Bimonthly Magazine of Current Events, in the Light of God's Word, with Messages of Comfort to All", Grace and Truth is a helpful periodical containing articles by its Editor, Edwin C. Kling, Leon A. Bynoe, John H. Essex, Arthur Benta, Charles J. Peart, C. S. Anderson, W. C. Roth, and others. It also contains a question box, and Aunt Berta's Children's Corner, written by Alberta Knoch, wife of the editor of Unsearchable Riches. Subscription is $1.50 a year, and should be sent to Grace and Truth, Post Office Box 62, New York, N. Y. 10027, U.S.A.

ALBERTA A. BENTA

Sister Benta, wife of Elder Arthur Benta of New York, died on January 6, 1967, after a long illness during which she was cared for by her loving husband. She was well known and well liked at the Bible Truth Church of God, where Bro. Benta is Assistant Overseer. Services were held at the Benta Funeral Home in New York, with burial in Evergreen Cemetary in Brooklyn on January 9. Officiating were Bros. Kling and Bynoe. Obituary was read by Bro. Bailey, with a solo by Rev. Speede. Good night, dear sister, until we meet in the morning. E.O.K.

GRACE AND TRUTH MAGAZINE

We know that many of our readers have also been subscribers to Grace and Truth Magazine which has been issued from New York City for over twenty years. Now we learn with regret that the founder and Managing Editor of this fine periodical, Brother Leon A. Bynoe, has been forced to relinquish his work entirely, due to poor health. However, we also learn that the work will be carried on in England under the direction of its present Editor, Brother John H. Essex, of England. The November 1972 issue has already been issued under this new arrangement. If you were a subscriber and have not yet received the November issue or would like to become a subscriber write direct to John H. Essex, 50 Park Road, Chilwell, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 4DD, England. Plans are to publish the magazine in a reduced format four times a year. The subscription price is $1.00 per year (50 pence in England). Because of the tremendous task involved in getting this work reestablished in a new location we would suggest that correspondents not expect personal replies to their letters during this time of adjustment. Let us all join in prayer that this witness for God's Word may be continued for God's glory.

ELDER ARTHUR BENTA

In his eighty-third year Elder Arthur Benta finished his course, May 11, 1973. He was born in Antigua, W.I., and in the days of his youth he came to the United States, here he lived the rest of his life. He was early associated with the I.B.S.A. until he became acquainted with the Concordant teaching of the Sacred Scriptures. This newfound truth he embraced and enthusiastically witnessed to its excellence. He shared these truths with believing friends, and soon a study group was formed, known as the Concordant Scripture Students, which met weekly for many years in Harlem, New York. Later he was associated with the Bible Truth Church of God, New York City, and many have profited from his enlightening written ministry in GRACE AND TRUTH magazine. His talent for teaching made room for him as dean of the Bible School of the Bible Truth Church of God, and it was a graduate of that school, Rev. Arnold Speede, who spoke at the funeral, held May 16 at the Benta Funeral Parlor. Although physically unwell and unable to conduct the service, Rev. Leon Bynoe was present and expressed his appreciation for the long years of fellowship with Bro. Benta in the service of the Lord. He now rests awaiting the call of Him Whom he loved and served, from Whom he will receive a wreath of righteousness in that day. E.C.K.

REPORT FROM JAMAICA

The 23rd annual Convocation of the Bible Truth Churches of God was scheduled this year for August 3-7, in Kingston, Jamaica, but "Hurricane Allen" which passed near that island on the 5th, interrupted the meetings for two days. They regrouped on the 7th and carried on until the 10th of August, reporting a wonderful time of fellowship with the saints, sharing the evangel of the grace of God and the word of the conciliation. Bro. Thomas Sutton of New York was the guest speaker. Our representative in Jamaica, Bro. James Hemmings, was appointed General Overseer for the groups there, succceeding Bro. N. H. Hawthorne who retired at 91 years of age. Bro. Samuel Rickard was appointed the "national teacher" for Jamaica. The hurricane caused considerable damage in the island, but no loss of life among the brethren. One of their temporary church buildings was lost as well as roofs from several other buildings, and there was great damage to their crops. We have sent some emergency relief to them, and Bro. Hemmings reports that it was received with much appreciation. Aid also was received from the brethren in England. Bro. Hemmings has provided us with a brief history of the Bible Truth Church of God. The Jamaican work began in 1925 with the evangelistic efforts of Rev. Leon A. Bynoe of New York City. Brother Bynoe returned for many more visits in later years, and in 1948 he sent Bro. E. C. King to Jamaica, who introduced many of the teachings which have appeared in the UNSEARCHABLE RICHES magazine. There are twelve branches of the Bible Truth Church of God in Jamaica with about 400 members, most of whom are small farmers or are unemployed because of the present economic problems in the country. There is considerable interest in our literature which we try to make available to them from time to time.

LEON A. BYNOE

We feel a deep sadness on receiving word of the death on April 15 of Brother Bynoe, the founding editor and publisher of GRACE AND TRUTH magazine. He was 88. His energetic and tireless service in giving out God's Word and the evangel of the grace of Christ, especially among the people of the West Indies and in New York City, will bring the Lord's reward in that day. He suffered a great deal during recent years from physical ailments, but His faith in the saving work of God was always strong and expectant. The funeral was held off until April 24 to give time for friends from Jamaica and England to attend. Our sympathy and love goes out to his widow, who tended to his needs so faithfully during his time of weakness, and to all his family and friends, especially to his associates in the Bible Truth Church of God. He was an honored brother to us all in the ecclesia which is the body of Christ, and we rejoice in the certain and joyful expectation of knowing him again when we will all be ever together with our Lord.

GRACE AND TRUTH MAGAZINE

Is bitterness a special danger for the believer? In the May 1985 issue of GRACE AND TRUTH magazine we read the following comment by Brother Donald Hayter: "Bitterness results from the loneliness and misunderstanding that are part of the pathway of truth. But bitterness is a spoiler of joy. Let it be taken away, writes Paul in Ephesians 4:31. It defiles and annoys, says God in the Hebrew epistle (12:15). Those who advance in the ways of truth are most prone to it. But we need not be defiled by its presence, for the grace of the Lord can take it away, and replace bitterness by sweetness of thought, disposition and action." Such brief but striking thoughts are typical of this little magazine now in its 36th year of publication. Prepared for many years in New York City under the editorship of the late Leon Bynoe, it is now edited by John Essex near Nottingham, England. There are four issues a year, and the subscription price is £1.00 in the British Isles and $2.00 for Canadian, Australian and USA readers. The latter can order the magazine through Grace and Truth Chapel, Box 84, Baldwin MI 49304. The Canadian agent is Ewald Degen and the Australian agents are Frank Schildmeyer and D. W. Osgood, whose addresses are given on our inside front cover. Brother Essex's address is 50 Park Road, Chilwell, Beeston, Notts. NG9-4DD ENGLAND.