The Neglected Northwest
The northwest part of the United States is a much-neglected field of labor that offers much opportunity for the Lord's cause. Many who have labored in this area have done so at great personal sacrifice. No doubt their willingness to sacrifice is pleasing to the Lord, yet we should be ready to help them to the extent of our ability in order that their burden may not be unnecessarily heavy.
Among those laboring in this field is Brother C. B. Shropshire, of Aloha, Oregon. There is no question that Brother Shropshire has sacrificed much for the work in Oregon. He is not of the nature to continually solicit from the brethren, thus for a number of years he has engaged in secular work to support his family in order to remain in this field. Brother Shropshire has not engaged in secular work, as some have, because of limited ability as a preacher of the gospel, but rather because of his love for the cause. There can be no question that his presence in this area has contributed much to its growth and strength. But without doubt Brother Shropshire could be of greater usefulness to the church in Oregon if he were free to work full time.
Brother Shropshire lives at Aloha, which is a suburb of Portland, and preaches for the young congregation at Hillsboro, which is a few miles west of Aloha. This work has been nurtured from the beginning by Brother Shropshire. It has grown substantially and is now undertaking a building program. This makes it impossible for them to support Brother Shropshire sufficiently for him to give full time to the work, They need our help. They are certainly worthy of it. In time, and the time is not too far away, they will be sufficiently strong to support themselves. But until that time we should do what we can for them. Paul said, "In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring ye ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." (Acts 20:35)
If you are interested in having further information than this article provides, or in having fellowship in this work, write Brother C. B. Shropshire, Rt. 1, Box 180, Aloha, Oregon.