Union City, Indiana (1918)
June 15, 1918, Union City, Indiana. District Superintendent, Rev. Harry Cochran's group worshipped in a small former grocery store. A partition not reaching the ceiling separated the auditorium and our small living quarters. Our furniture consisted of three pieces given to us by Father and Mother Bolender. We had what was known then as a sanitary davenport consisting of a steel frame with one side down and the other side raised. The frame enclosed a set of link springs. Over this was a pad mattress which served as a davenport in the day and a bed at night. There was also a dresser and a desk. In the basement we had an antique gas cook stove and a wooden packing box for a table.
Before we got organized in the rear of the store room, we were entertained in the home of a Pennsylvania Dutch family by the name of Perry. They were a very godly family. Mr. Perry had a kind but personal way of dealing with his children on spiritual matters. I definitely recall overhearing him ask one of the older girls, “Have you prayed tonight?” Another time he asked one of his other girls, “How long has it been since you prayed?” Our stay in their home was short, but to this day, 65 years later, that family stands out as an example of Godliness and mutual love and respect between parents and children.
The small church group was not able to support us, but they gave us offerings. We had our breakfasts at home, but the noon meal was provided in different homes of the church group. That was the only time we were supported in such a way. We really had an opportunity to get acquainted with our people. We were happy and felt honored that God had called us to the ministry.
Before we got organized in the rear of the store room, we were entertained in the home of a Pennsylvania Dutch family by the name of Perry. They were a very godly family. Mr. Perry had a kind but personal way of dealing with his children on spiritual matters. I definitely recall overhearing him ask one of the older girls, “Have you prayed tonight?” Another time he asked one of his other girls, “How long has it been since you prayed?” Our stay in their home was short, but to this day, 65 years later, that family stands out as an example of Godliness and mutual love and respect between parents and children.
The small church group was not able to support us, but they gave us offerings. We had our breakfasts at home, but the noon meal was provided in different homes of the church group. That was the only time we were supported in such a way. We really had an opportunity to get acquainted with our people. We were happy and felt honored that God had called us to the ministry.
