Roanoke Church

(Esterly)

(1891-)

The Gospel Messenger July 28, 1891 page 461

Church to be organized. – The Brethren and sister met in council at the residence of the undersigned and, by unanimous vice, have concluded to form an organization here, Aug. 15. They have the promise of the assistance of Bro. James R. Gish, of Arkansas, at that time. At the same time we will hold communion services, and we extend a hearty welcome to all who may be with us, they will be met at Esterly, on the Southern Pacific railroad, by notifying me. We now number twenty-one members, with bright prospects for the future.  Pray for the little band in Louisiana!. – S. A. Sutter, Esterly, La., July 4.

The Gospel Messenger Sept. 1, 1891 page 540 Vol. 29 No. 33

From the Highways and Hedges.

As many desired to hear from us, I would say to all who are interested in our welfare and the work in which we are engaged, that we left our home in Arkansas July 30, on the Cotton Belt Road, for Louisiana. Our first stop and change was at Louisville, about twenty miles South-east of Texarkana, where we changed for Shroveport, La. After a lay-over of about twelve hours we arrived at Shroveport about noon, where we had The pleasure of another delay of about seventeen hours. During our enforced stay at this place we took a look around the city, and after a night’s rest, morning came, and with it the 5:05 train on the Texas Pacific Road.

  This brought us to Cheneyville, where we arrived  about 11: 30. Here we soon learned that we were doomed for another lay-over of about twenty-three hours, but having to submit to the inevitable, we tried to make the best of it. This stop brought us to Sunday, Aug, 2, 10: 30 A. M.  We had expected to be at the meeting, at Jennings, La,, at that time.

  We next took the train for Lafayette, where we had only to stop about two hours, and finally arrived at Jennings about 3 P. M.

  Here we were met by brethren and sisters, and conveyed to the home of Bro. Adam and sister Anna Esterly. It being late in the day, we had no meeting until Monday evening, Aug. 3. Then we had meetings each evening up to Saturday evening. The meetings were held in a schoolhouse, and the regular meeting of the band boys being on Saturday evening, we had to give way, and so our meetings were broken.

  On Sunday, Aug. 9, we again met at the schoolhouse for preaching. After meeting one was baptized, who had made application previous to that time. This closed the meetings at Jennings. The attendance at these meetings was rather small, but the attention was good, giving us some hope that the seed sown may yet bring fruit to the glory of God,

  Monday, Aug. 10, we commenced meetings in the village of Esterly, near where Bro. S. A. Honberger has his home. Here we continued meetings each evening up to Friday evening, Aug. 14. On Saturday, Aug. 15, at 10 A. M., we met at the house of Bro. Simon Sutter, about two and one half miles from Esterly, for the organization of the church and Communion services. We had preaching at 10 A. M. After dinner we met for organization. All the members present who were in possession of their letters handed them in. They were read and accepted. Then the official members were received in their respective cilices, —Bro. S. A. Honbarger as elder, and brethren Simon Sutter and Jacob Silwise as deacons. Other matters were also attended to, and all seemed to pass off pleasantly and to the apparent satisfaction of all present.

  We again met at G: 30 P. M., for examination services. After a short intermission we assembled for the Communion season. About twenty-four members were at the tables. A few were hindered by sickness, and others had not received their letters, which was regretted. All the members present seemed to enjoy the services, which closed about 9 P. M., with a fair attendance, good attention and good order.

  On Sunday, Aug. 10, we moved our meeting back to Esterly, where it is still being continued each evening with fair attendance, consuls ink the thinly-settled country. When our work done here, if the Lord will, we want to visit the churches in Texas. Remember us in your prayers! Jas. R. Gish.

Esterly, LA

The Gospel Messenger Jan. 8, 1910 page 28

Roanoke, church met Dec. 23, a 3:30 P. M. for public service. After services an election was held for a minister.  The lot fell on Bro. J. B. Firestone, who, with is wife, was duty installed. At night about fifty members surrounded the Lord’s table. It was a spiritual feast indeed.  This closed our series of meetings. While there were no accusations to the church, we feel sure that some are counting the cost, and are almost persuaded.  The members were spiritually strengthened.  Bro. S. A. Honberger left for Texas, where he expects to labor for awhile, and then return to Louisiana to spent the winter. – J. I. Miller, Roanoke, La., Dec. 25