“Thousands visited the encampment, and expressed their delight and astonishment at the order of the grounds, and the nicety of arrangements in the clean, white tents. No stubborn opposition seemed to be awakened as men and women listened to the truth for the first time. The power of God was among us. Brighton was stirred from one end to the other. An interest was awakened in Melbourne also, and the surrounding suburbs, greater than anything we had witnessed since the movement of 1844. The truth was new and strange; yet it took hold upon the people; for we preached the word of God, and the Lord sent it home to the hearts of the hearers.” (LS 347.1) MC VC

“Many visitors came from long distances, and, as it was in the 1843 and 1844 movement, they would bring their lunch and remain through the day. A number of the citizens of the place declared that if they were not living close by, they would hire tents and camp with us on the ground. They valued the privilege of hearing the word of God so clearly explained. They said the Bible seemed to be full of new and precious things, and was like a new book to them. We heard from many such expressions as these: ‘This is more than we hoped for.’ ‘Our faith is confirmed; our hope brightened; our belief in the testimony of the Scriptures made strong.’” (LS 347.2) MC VC

“I have attended many camp meetings,” testified Elder O. A. Olsen concerning the Brighton meeting, “but I have never before witnessed such an outside interest. This is more like what in my imagination I have thought would be the loud voice of the third angel’s message, than anything I have seen heretofore. A most profound impression is made on the city of Melbourne. Wherever one goes, the leading topic of conversation is the camp meeting and what is seen and heard there. From all around come most earnest appeals for meetings....” (LS 347.3) MC VC