D-2-S-1
Memos by unknown writers
PR MINISTERS AND CHURCHES VISITED
- Calvary Lutheran, C. Ram – good response, people friendly, minister impressed with knowing JJ had recommended that they go there.
- African Methodist Church, Rev. Healey Hines – the minister was away at a conference. Very friendly women who ran the meeting, young adults took part in the service. They said we sent 3 members last Sun. Felt very welcome. The members gave them hymnals and invited them to come again.
- Trinity Methodist – The elders asked why they came and E. [Edith] Bogue said that Bishop Jones spoke highly of them. The minister was ill at ease because they were escorted in while he was reprimanding the choir for not participating enough. Edith doesn’t know the name of the minister but didn’t think he was the full time minister.
- Mt. Zion Baptist – Rev. Miller minister met JJ before, very glad members from PT came. Maria spoke publicly about 30
- St. Andrews Presbyterian Oswald Best, minister, not there. They spoke to him at the door, he was OK, tho busy
- African Methodist – Rev. Berry, very friendly talked about P.T. when we first came and weren’t accepted he spoke up fpr us in the council of Churches and said we were doing a good work. Said JJ a good man.
- Christ Church, Anglican (last week) Father Langhi ?? friendly, gave us all a ride home. East Indian
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D-2-S-2
To Conversation with Rev. Cockburn, PA. John on April 25, 1975:
Rev. Cockburn also made a comment about a Baptist minister who was visiting Guyana from Cuba. He said that he was just recently in Cuba and found that the Baptist Churches were very divided and none of the 3 strong Baptist churches were on very good terms with one another. He said that the imparticular Baptist sect that this Cuban minister was attached to was neither of the two Baptist churches in Guyana.
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D-2-S-3A
Conversation with Rev. F. Baron Cockburn of the Methodist Churches in Guyana and who is the new Chairman of the Guyana Council of Churches taking the place of Bishop Philip Elder (April 25, 1975):
- Johnny Brown and Paula Adams went into see Rev. Cockburn to congradulate him on his recent appointment as the new Chairman of the Guyana council of Churches.
- Catholic Church tried to use Brother Jones, but it didn’t work, so the Catholics are more cautious than ever, according to Cockburn.
- They are always trying to go off on their own and not go through the Council according to Cockburn (he is referring to the Catholics).
- Cockburn asked how many Catholics were in Port Kaituma and Matthews Ridge. He said that according to the Catholics themselves the P.K./M.R. complex is a real Catholic strong-hold.
- he asked if there had been any moves by the Catholics to start an agriculture project in our area.
- From our conversations with Cockburn, both Johnny and I got the impression very distinctly that he did not like the Catholic church at all.
- He said that the Anglican church was a satellite of the Catholic church.
- He wants to see our project to get ideas for one that the Methodist church has started elsewhere in the interior of Guyana.
- He said that the Catholics were in for more trouble with this sugar strike. The Catholic church has acted on its own and aided families of the striking workers (which is the strong-arm of the PPP). The government regards this as a very unpatriotic move.
- The executive committee of the Guyana Council of Churches had a meeting to discuss whether they would aid the starving children of the striking workers, which were reported to exist. Just after this meeting, Dr. [Ptolemy] Reid called Rev. Cockburn in and told him all about the meeting and everything that each person said at this meeting. Cockburn said Dr. Reid asked why they were supporting the PPP and Rev. Cockburn stated that children didn’t belong to any party and starving children couldn’t be regarded as party supporters and were just starving children. Cockburn said that Dr. Reid disagreed and said they were part of the PPP. Cockburn said that after investigation, that they found no starving children so the subject was closed. Rev. Cockburn is such a mealy mouthed person with no real convictions that he would stand behind; that I think he let the subject close so as to not rock the boat; and his new position as Chairman of the Council.
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D-2-S-3B
However, I couldn’t agree more with Dr. Reid’s analysis of the situation.
- He asked for literature about our group so that he could present this to the Executive committee of the Council when they discuss endorsing our church this coming Tuesday (April 29, 1975). He said that he understood that we were members of the Disciples of Christ, but some members were having questions because a few people were using this Korean fellow, Sun/Moon, to get at us. He said that it was an unfortunate circumstance that this Sun/Moon was being introduced for endorsement at the same time that we were; and he further said that a few people are trying to use this by saying that beings we are looking into them, we ought to look into the Peoples Temple group. (I_PA_ don’t think that it is by circumstance that we were being introduced at the same time as this Korean church, because of our encounters with Bishop Elder in January). Cockburn asked if we knew of anyone writing any letters asking questions about us. He indicated that someone had and that by us giving him literature about us (he specified the one with pictures of all of the different facilities) that it would clarify everything.
- As we were leaving this meeting with Rev. Cockburn, we met Pastor Tideman of the Lutheran Church as he was going in to see Rev. Cockburn. We apologized again for having run into his car. I asked what part of the United States he was from and we let it go at that. I was sorry after we left that I didn’t name-drop with him to let him know of our support. He is about 35years old, with sandy blonde hair which is slightly over his ears denoting the style of a would-be-liberal. He also had a Hitler-style moustache. He did not strike me as liberal, although his hair and moustache might indicate so. He did wear the collar of a minister, and spoke rather hesitantly and uncomfortably.
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D-2-S-4A
MINISTERS VISITED:
1. Reverand Samaroo: Methodist Minister; East Indian; 40ish; lives on 70 High Street, Kingston (across from Bishop Elder).
He was very conservative and non-committal. He referred us to his head – Rev. B. Cockburn who is the chairman of the Methodist Church.
2. Reverand B. Cockburn: Methodist minister (chairman of the Methodist Church); about 45 yrs; lives at 51 High St., Werk-en-rust; Black.
He received us warmly and even committed himself to write us a letter of support. He later changed his mind and did not write a letter. John felt he had to answer to Bishop Elder, who is the chairman of the Guyana Council of Churches and Bishop Elder was very cold to us. He still had a warm reception for us but no letter. He must be waiting to see what and how the Council of Churches is going to receive us.
3. Reverand Horace Jackson: Methodist minister; Black; about 40 yrs.; Robb and Camp Sts.
Was very positive to us. His brother is Mr. Daul who is a teacher at the Agricultural School in Arakaka (near Port Kaituma) who also is very positive to us. He also referred us to Reverend Cockburn.
4. Reverand Benjamin Berry; Black; 55-60 yrs; Regent St.; Presding Elder for the AME Church in Guyana. He is also on the executive committee of the Guyana Council of Churches. Berry use to be in the Disciples of Christ in South Bend, Indiana. He has been very helpful and positive to us. He especially likes John. He has written a letter of support and even spoken for us in the Council of Churches. Has time and time again suggested that we start a church.
5. Reverand Miller; Pilgram Holiness, 198 Charlotte St.; Black; 50ish; He likes to expound on the Bible. He was very friendly. He really likes Charlie T.
6. Bishop Phillip Elder: about 45 yrs; Black; 66 High St, Kingston; Bishop of the Anglican Church; President of the Guyana Council of Churches.
He is cold; has put us off about being recognized as a member of the Guyana Council of Churches; was very rude to our members after they were invited by Rev. Berry to attend one of the executive committee meetings.
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D-2-S-4B
7. Rev. Beale R. Nauth: Methodist FMethodist Manse, 235 South Rd.; He is hostile. He came with Father Morrison to our house and tried to start some trouble. Other persons who came with Father Morrison were Nurse Ramos (she is Catholic and works at the Davis Rose Center).
8. Mr. Fraser: acting minister at the time for Holiness Church, Light and Robb St.
He was very positive to us. His wife attended our meeting.
9. Salvation Army on 210 Charlotte St. At first Capt. ? Was going to write a letter of support for us but when we went back for the letter, he had changed his mind and only directed us to the Commander of the Salvation Army.
10. Oliver Hunter: about 30 yrs; Black; Head Reader for the Christian Science Monitor. He is also the senior information officer of the Ministry of Information. Very positive towards us and wrote a letter of support.
11. Samual Seeram: Pastor of Calvary Lutheran; E. Indian; about 45-50 yrs.; He is egocentric and quite condescending when discussing anything. He acts as if he has all of the answers and puts you through a test to see if you can guess the right answer. He was really nasty to John and Mike [Touchette] when they went to see him, but when Karen [Layton] and I went back to see him he mellowed out after we had talked to him for about half-an-hour. He was very cold at first but became civil to us and even smiled a couple of times.
12. Rev. Boller: Assemblies of God, 330 Church and East St.’ about 35 yrs. Gene and John visited him and he was very hostile to them, so Karen and Paula later went back to him and although he wasn’t blatantly hostile, he didn’t show himself to be very favorable. He organized a healing service for some evangelists from Trinidad, Barbados, and Trinidad. All of the evangelists were white, and he is Black.
13. Father Campbell-Johnston: He is the floating Catholic father. He is about 40 yrs, considered a liberal (the youth that work in his office call him C.J.), he works quite actively in various projects dealing with youth, the David Rose Center; he does a radio program with a Ralph Nadar flair. He is white.
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[Editor’s note: D-2-S-5A and D-2-S-5B are duplicates are of former documents, and were not transcribed.]
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D-2-T-1
Letter to Deborah Touchette from Christ Church Vicarage, Georgetown
[letterhead of The Venerable N.H. Lalljee. Vicar General]
Nov. 25, 1977
Peoples Temple
P.O. Box 893
Georgetown
Dear Deborah,
Please convry our thanks to Bishop Jones and the Peoples Temple for the check and beautiful tablecloth which we have already used.
May God bless you.
Sincerely, Neville Lalljee
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D-2-T-2A
Letter to Rev. Samroo from Larry Schacht
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
13 August 1977
Rev. Samroo
Methodist Church
70 High St.
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Rev. Samroo:
We’ve been wanting to contact you for some time, but we’ve been busy helping a number of our members who have recently arrived in Georgetown, en route to our agricultural project in the North West District. Each and every one of our group is delighted to be in Guyana, and are endlessly grateful that Rev. Jim Jones had the vision to lead us here. You may have seen some of us in your worship services lately, because we’ve brought those who have passed through on a weekend to visit some of our local churches. We have been hearing more and more of the good work you are doing to fulfill the teachings of the Scriptures. We feel a real kindred spirit with our Guyanese brothers and sisters who have been so kind and friendly every step of the way. We couldn’t begin to name all of the ministers, priests, and church members who have been warm and helpful to us, but we want you to know we deeply appreciate all you have done.
Our blessed move has been marred only by an attack launched against us by segments of the reactionary press in the U.S. The word has gotten around that many of our people have become so disillusioned with the lust for material things, so prevalent in U.S. society, that we have chosen to live out the years in a developing country where we can practice freely our Christian Socialist principles. Our move has naturally caused some a sense of embarrassment. And for others, who have never liked to see a large group of peoples of all races getting on well together, our move constitutes a definite loss of face. Some feel that we are preoccupied now, and will not have the time or money to sue against sensational lies.
The head of a law enforcement agency, who knows our commitment and our integrity, has himself said that this localized strike against us is all because of our support for Christian Socialism and our choosing to live in Guyana. The black press has been supportive all along, and the reactionary part of the white press, even in its most scurrilous attacks, has had to admit that Rev. Jones and the Peoples Temple have never done anything but for the good of the people. In fact, the attack does not really surprise us; it is just as Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, warned us, that good people would be persecuted and made to suffer, even as He himself suffered. It would be impossible for certain elements in the U.S. to admit that we are good people, because how could they accept that good people would prefer to live in another society?
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D-2-T-2B
I thought you might be interested in some of the statements I’ve enclosed, which constitute a strong affirmation of the character of Rev. Jones and the good work he has steadfastly done. The statements and letters of support were written by some of our many friends who called to see what they could do in this time of persecution. One of our people in the States suggested that letters stating their unshaken belief in Rev. Jones’ work might be helpful in showing our detractors that those who know us are not impressed by the all too familiar voice of reaction. Those who are trying to whip up the bigots who are always present in many segments of the U.S. will unfortunately find others willing to listen. But we believe that time will show we have been set upon precisely because of our convictions and our commitment to the fundamental principles of the New Testament.
Meanwhile, our agricultural project is progressing very nicely. Jim jones has spoken several times on the local radio stations during the past week, telling of our accomplishments and our projections for the settlement in the interior. We are happily assimilating with the Guyanese nationals in the area, and several of our members have “adopted” Guyanese children of all races. In every respect, we are finding life on Guyana soil to be rewarding and challenging and we rejoice in the opportunity to be here.
We wish you all the best, and look forward to meeting and working with you more frequently in the future.
Yours sincerely,
[signed] Laurence E. Schacht, M.D.
[signed] Joyce A. Parks, R.N.
Medical Practitioner
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D-2-T-3A
Memo of receipt
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
March 12th, 1977
Received from Peoples Temple Agricultural Project, on behalf of Bishop Jim Jones, the sum of $50.00 (fifty dollars and 00/100) as a donation to “Teenage World International” formed by young Christians who wish to help other young people in Guyana find jobs and/or learn a trade.
After reading a lovely letter by representative Lennox Marcurius, Bishop Jones was deeply moved with your endeavor to help other people, as it is our moral belief that “The highest Worship to God is Service to Your Fellow man”, and this belief has brought us to Guyana to aide in the F.C.H. Program. We give this donation with the understanding that these funds will not be used for advertisement contrary to the Government of Guyana.
[signed] Lennox Mercurius
Co-Ordinator
18/3/77
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D-2-T-3B
[Editor’s note: blank copy of letterhead of Teenage World International, Georgetown.]
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D-2-T-4
Letter from Jean Brown to Georgetown church ministers
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Rev. Edwin Vandeyar
District Chairman and Superintendent
Trinity Methodist Church
D’Urban and High Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Rev. Vandeyar:
On behalf of Bishop Jim Jones and the Peoples Temple Christian Church membership, may I extend to you our sincere congratulations on the honor of being chosen as Chairman of the Guyana Methodist Church. Bishop Jones and those of us in Peoples Temple, both stateside and in Guyana, have heard such favorable things about you that we are indeed pleased to know of this new position of trust and responsibility you will hold. Through our association with the Guyana Council of Churches and other churchmen throughout the country, we are aware of the humanitarian concern of your ministry. It is with esteem and much support that Bishop Jones sends you his congratulations.
Our congregation of many thousands of people of all races, ages, and socio-economic backgrounds is pleased to be a part of the humanitarian thrust of Guyana through our own agricultural mission in the Port Kaituma area. The mission has proven very successful, and we are grateful that our commitment in the face of overwhelming world hunger has flourished. In our own work we are greatly inspired and encouraged by the church in Guyana and its practical concern for the needs of the people. It is our earnest hope that His work will be furthered through whatever contributions we may make through Guyana’s enlightened PCH Program.
Bishop Jones sends you his heartfelt greetings and hope that this letter finds you healthy and prospering in the work of the practical Christian ministry.
Very sincerely yours,
[signed] (Mrs.) Jean F. Brown
Secretary
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D-2-T-5
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Right Reverend R.O. George
Dean of Georgetown and Bishop of Stabroek
c/o Austin House
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Bishop George:
Bishop Jim Jones of Peoples Temple Christian Church of the Disciples of Christ, and the entire Peoples Temple congregation, extend heartfelt congratulations as you assume your new post as Bishop of Stabroek. Bishop Jones was only sorry he could not be personally present at the occasion of your ordination, though Rev. and Mrs. Michael Touchette, who attended on his behalf, were highly honored to participate in the great occasion.
Mrs. Paula Adams, the Touchettes, and all the members of our agricultural team in Guyana also wish to be included among the names of those extending their congratulations and best wishes to you. Perhaps you are aware of our large agricultural mission in Guyana’s Port Kaituma area. We are privileged to be a part of the enlightened and humanitarian thrust that is taking place in your lovely country, and only hope that any contribution we can make through the FCH Program will further His work in meeting the practical needs of the people. We have made our own commitment in the face of overwhelming world hunger, and have been greatly encouraged and impressed by the example of concern and practical ministry of the church in Guyana.
Many friends and contacts in Guyana, both clergy and laity, have conveyed to us their feeling that you are an excellent choice for this esteemed position. Through our association with denominations in Guyana and the Guyana Council of Churches, we hope to enjoy many years of working with you towards fulfillment of the practical teachings of Jesus Christ.
Very sincerely yours,
[signed] (Mrs.) Jean F. Brown
Board of Directors, Peoples Temple Christian Church
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D-2-T-6
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Rt. Rev. Phillip Elder
St. Peter’s AME Church
154 Almond at New Garden Street
Queenstown
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Rev. Elder:
First of all, on behalf of Pastor Jim Jones and the many members of Peoples Temple Christian Church of the Disciples of Christ, may I extend to you our most sincere congratulations on the occasion of your 72nd Anniversary of the founding of St. Peter’s.
Our Pastor was deeply moved to learn of your challenge to the congregation to be of greater service in Guyana. You are so right in upholding the conviction that Christianity is practical; and that if it is to bear relevance to our modern society, it must remain accessible and of service to everyone, regardless of denominational lines. The very ecumenicity represented in your anniversary service is a tribute to your vital leadership in the church of today.
Perhaps you know of our agricultural missionary project in Guyana’s North West District. With God’s blessing, the project is expanding and flourishing. We feel such a unity of purpose with you and other leaders of your lovely land. Our congregation, both Stateside and in Guyana, is made up of people from all races, ages, and religious backgrounds. We are united as one, as Pastor Jones has inspired and led us, in the conviction that the highest form of worship to God is in service to our fellow man.
Pastor Jones sends his most heartfelt greetings and highest regards. We thank God that there are among us men of faith such as you who are helping to make Christ’s teachings a reality in our day.
Sincerely yours,
[signed] Jean F. Brown, secretary
P.S. I have enclosed a few brochures about our outreach programs here in the States, which I hope will be of some interest to you.
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D-2-T-7
Pastor Tideman, founder of the Guyana Extension Seminary, gave us these copies after we donated 2,000 to the program. He did not seem overjoyed with the donation, but he didn’t know the amount at the time. None-the-less his thank you was casual. Later on Pastor Seeram of Calvery Lutheran called and said thank you with much more sincereness.
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D-2-T-8A – 11b
Report of the General Director of Guyana Extension Summary, not transcribed
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D-2-T-12
Temple correspondence with Guyanese religious figures
[handwritten notation] Examples
Bishop Jim V. Jones
Peoples Temple
P.O. Box 893
Georgetown, Guyana
December 31, 1974
Mr. Dereck Wolf
327 South Ruimueldt Gardens
Green Heart Street
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Mr. Dereck Wolf,
Thank you for your letter. The greatest results come from Faith in the Bishop as a humble instrument of the Holy Spirit. A multitude of miracles have been wrought by him through mayor and his unique belief in the Living Christ.
Your letter will be forwarded to Bishop Jones who is presently in our large United States Headquarters, [scratched out sentence: “Redwood Valley, California, United States. He will be returning regularly and I am sure you will receive a message regarding his return.”] Also if you want to write Stateside feel free to do so. Send your mail to Bishop Jones, P.O. Box 214, Redwood Valley, California, 95470 U.S.A.
Although many miracles are witnessed in each of the Bishop’s services, we have tens of thousands of testimonies from radio listeners and those who correspond by mail of healings they have received just by hearing the Word (and by anointed articles.} Many are healed just by faith in the ever present power of the God Love working through this ministry.
Peace and Love to you
In Christ’s name
[signed] Rev. John Brown
Georgetown Resident Minister
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D-2-T-13
letters in answer to people from G. [Georgetown] writing in
your letter has been sent on to the Bishop and even now he can begin to work because we tell him over the telephone of your request. The results depend on faith on the part of the believer. Multitudes of miracles have been wrought by him by prayer and belief in the Living God.
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D-2-T-14A
12-1-74
Dear Thelma Prass,
Blessings and greetings to you in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Bishop Jim Jones personally read your letter and asked me to convey his deepest love and concern to you. He request that you continue to seek medical care, as we work in complete cooperation with medical science. Bishop Jones is concerned about your condition and is praying to God for your needs. You are dear to him, Thelma, and he hopes you will continue to keep in touch with him.
Please let us know if we can be of any assistance
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D-2-T-14B
to you.
Sincerely,
Larry Layton
Secretary to the Pastor
P.S. Since I was flying to Guyana I brought you this letter here from the states to mail to you.
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D-2-T-15A
[letter from Debbie Touchette responding]
January 9, 1977
Rubina Small
63 Bent Street
Werken Rust,
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Sister Small,
Greetings for the new year. Your letter has been forwarded on to Bishop Jones who is in our large U.S. headquarters. Faith is the key to unlock all doors of healing and according to your faith, be it unto you. Many miracles have been wrought by Christ, working through Bishop Jones.
We would be happy to assist you in any way possible, but at this time we don’t have any clothing to be distributed, as a nonprofit church, all funds are directed to the agricultural mission in the North West. All the members working in Guyana, are here voluntarily and do not draw salaries. What we cannot do individually to help others we hope to accomplish collectively through the guidance of Bishop Jones, as we work to aide the
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D-2-T-15B
F.C.H. Programme in Guyana.
Your friends in Christ
Deborah Touchette
Secretary
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D-2-T-16
[Peoples Temple letterhead]
December 31, 1975
Father Michael Campbell-Johnston
G.I.S.R.A.
Brickdam, Stabroek
Georgetown, Guyana
South America
Dear Father Campbell-Johnston,
On behalf of Pastor Jim Jones and all of us in Peoples Temple, both here in the States and in Guyana, I want to thank you for all you did to make the Guyana Council of Churches Conference the major success it was. Paula Adams and the other members of our mission staff who attended that conference and who related their experiences to us sang your praises to the highest. They were especially im-pressed by how effectively you organized the secretariat and the kitchen assistance, and asked that you thank them on our behalf. As always, they noted, your observations, your own personal contributions were very significant. This is the quality of leadership the church needs today if it is to fulfill its role as moral guide in a society that is shifting ever more toward humanitarian, egalitarian values.
We will miss you more than words can say when you relocate to Rome to head the Jesuit Socio-Economic Development Secretariat there. But judging from your role as Director of G.I.S.R.A over the past eight years, you will provide that post with just the stimulus for social justice that it demands, and we are confident that you are more than qualified to handle this important new position.
You made the institution of the church synonymous with social work in Guyana, and we will always remember you for that, Father. Warmest best wishes for the New Year and all it brings in your new post.
In Christ’s Name,
James Randolph, secretary
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D-2-T-17
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
February 11, 1975
Father Campbell-Johnson
C/O DISRA Catholic Center
Brickdam Street
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Father Campbell-Johnson:
Pastor Jim Jones and the many members of Peoples Temple Christian Church send you warm greetings and hope that the new year finds you healthy and prospering in the work of Our Savior.
We continue to hear from our members in Guyana of the good works you are carrying on, including the legal aid program and the project for handicapped children. Your dedication is surely an inspiration to us.
All of us in the Peoples Temple family give thanks that God has blessed our agricultural mission at Port Kaituma. It is astounding how much has been accomplished, how much we have been blessed to achieve. Our workers have carried on diligently and have completed a five mile road, a bridge, cleared 300 acres and planted hundreds of crops. We are glad to have been able to be of assistance in the Port Kaituma area by providing jobs, food, and medical assistance.
We have been moved to make this commitment in face of the world food crisis, and have been greatly encouraged by your support and example of concern for the needs of others.
Please accept, in forthcoming mail, a box of candy as a small expression of our deep appreciation for your support and friendship.
Pastor Jones holds you in highest regard, and sends his most genuine concern.
Sincerely,
[signed] Jean Brown, Secretary
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D-2-T-18a – 18f
Listing of services by David Rose Centre, a self-help community project in Georgetown
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D-2-T-19
A.M.E. ZION CHURCH
Guyana Conference
150 Regent Street,
Georgetown, Guyana
February 25, 1977.
To the Friends of A.M.E. Zion
To People’s Temple Church
Greetings in Jesus’ name! Again the season has come when the Guyana Conference of African Methodist Episcopal Zion (A.M.E.) Churches must call upon our friends and well-wishers to join us in our Welcome Service for our Bishop, Wife and Overseas Delegates.
The venue is Martin Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church at Grove, East Bank, Demerara, March 17, 1977 at 7.30 p.m. Our speaker is none other than our beloved Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. P.A. Reid, V.S.
Please share your evening with us in this exercise, and we shall be much obliged.
Thanking you for your presence.
[signed] Dr. Benjamin O. Berry.
Bishop’s Deputy,
Guyana Conference of A.M.E.
Zion Churches.
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D-2-T-20
[Peoples Temple letterhead]
Rev. Benjamin O. Berry
Alleyne’s A.M.E. Zion Church
150 Regent Street, Lacytown
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Reverand Berry,
How have you and yours been doing? I hope by the time this letter reaches you, it will find everything alright.
As you know, when I came back to California, I took over the operation of our large Los Angelos church. I must say it is a huge task, but under the leadership of Bishop Jones, and the grace of God, I really feel that I am doing positive things to help people.
Bishop Jones has established educational programs for college age youth; a pre-school program for small children; free medical exams for our Senior citizens; an extensive animal shelter and so much more.. I could go on and on.
So, as you may have already guessed, I am kept pretty busy. But I love it, I would choose no other path for my life, than to serve others as I have witnessed Bishop Jones do. I do miss my friends back home in Guyana and look forwards to seeing you all again. I know that when I do return, I will have more skills developed that are needed to run a church, because of my experience in such a large operation as our Los Angelos church.
So much for me, how are things going with you? What is happening with the Council of Churches? How has the weather been? SO much I’d like to know.
Take care of yourself. Write back as soon as you are able. Hope to hear from you in the near future.
Yours truly,
[signed] Johnny Brown
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D-2-T-21
Observations:
Dear “Bishop” Jones,
Greetings! Having read and heard comments in our Press and discussions from responsible and irresponsible people of Guyana, I was happy, yea, delighted to have some of your members dropped in our humble parsonage recently to speak with me on the subject of your church and an article which appeared in the Daily Graphic. After a very cordial discussion with those who visited me, I was left an “Article” – “Peoples Temple Speaks Out” on which to give my candid comments, and maybe suggestions relative to your mission to Guyana.
Perhaps it is good for you to know that while my wife and I are Guyanese born, we are naturalized citizens of the U.S.A. – a circumstance which could very well have something to do with my conclusions. In the first place, I know somewhat about the religious views of “Disciples of Christ”, my having associated with that church group in South Bend, Indiana while pastoring there for six years, and with whose Pastors and members I had very good fellowship.
As I read and hear about your work in Guyana from those who visited me, my observation is that much emphasis is put upon the “Healing Ministry.” Yes, this aspect of the Christian Religion is good, and I believe in it somewhat. But, perhaps unlike some other countries, and perhaps because of historical factors, Guyanese people would have more sympathy and respect for your work and mission, were the aspect of “healing” be played down. My friend and brother, so many denominations came into Guyana with “healing ministry” and had to leave prematurely, because after a time when our people did not get the result they craved, such denominations were relegated to “fringe movements.” Knowing the caliber of some of your ministries in the U.S.A., I would not like the prestige of “Disciples of Christ” be tarnished.
Yes, our government is going all out for agricultural development of Guyana and welcome any denomination that would fit into their development plan. Your investments in that direction are apropos at such a time like this. I shall, however, adminish you in all sincerity and honesty not to de-emphaise the “Preaching Ministry.” Guyana has a history of “Church Organizational Structure,” and it is still true that Guyanese love the “preached word.” Your economics and sociology could be in their right perspective, were they used as adjuncts to the “Preaching Ministry.”
I venture to advise that your Board of Missions should set up some kind of “Church Organizational Structure” in Guyana, lest your effort could and would be viewed only in political frame-work by the poorer peoples of Guyana. Setting up a headquarter in Georgetown, where the labor force is could very well give you the right people for the NorthWest District, for many of the people now resident in George-town are those who have drifted from the country (farming) areas. If these people are converted and join forces to develop The NorthWest, I think your money would be well spent. But nay contingent oof people without Christianity, spirituality on the farms, I think, would be inimical philosophy of your U.S. connections. Suffice what I have written to be just a small part of my observation, experience and admonition in respect of the grand purpose of you and your people back home in the U.S.A. Yes, dialogue with me on contingent matters may be a good thing, my brother, for I am interested in seeing the work of the Lord established in genuine and formidable fashion.
Yours in the Master’s service… Ren O. Berry
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D-2-T-63
[Peoples Temple letterhead]
December 10, 1975
Rev. F. B. Cockburn, Chairman
and Executive Board of
Guyana Council of Churches
71 Murray Street
Cummingsburg
Georgetown, Guyana
South America
Dear Rev. Cockburn and Board,
Pastor Jones and all of us here at Peoples Temple in the States send you sincerest thanks for inviting our missionaries in Guyana to attend the Guyana Council of Churches Conference in official observer status. All who attended reported to us that they found the conference most interesting, and they were very hopeful that positive contributions can be made to Guyanese society in terms of Christian ethics as identified by this conference. If the feeling of fellowship generated is any index, of its success, the conference must have been very successful, indeed.
The new emphasis among churchmen on the humanitarian values put forth in Matthew 25 indicated an awareness of the need for churches to be responsive to the time and to conditions of society. Your personal dedication to practical Christianity and sympathy with the kinds of things Peoples Temple is trying to do in Guyana has been, and is, deeply appreciated.
We looked forward to a new and rewarding association with you and the dedicated Christians of the Guyana Council of Churches.
In His Service,
/s/ James R. Randolph
Secretary
—-
D-2-T-64
[Peoples Temple letterhead]
March 1, 1976
Rev. F.B. Cockburn
c/o Guyana Council of Churches
71 Murray Street
C/Burg
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Reverend Cockburn:
Greetings to you from Pastor Jim Jones and the many members of Peoples Temple Christian Church, both Stateside and in Guyana. Please extend, on our behalf, greetings also to the membership of the Guyana Council of Churches. Pastor Jones was so deeply moved to read of your decision to end Guyana’s Week of Prayer with something of tangible benefit, in particular your intensive program to assist the Home for Spastic Children. We wholeheartedly commend you for your commitment to the social ministry. It has been Pastor Jones’ deep conviction, and our Peoples Temple founding faith, that the highest form of worship to God is service to our fellow man. We are gratified to see the high level of commitment to human service in your work and the work of the Council of Churches, as is so very evident throughout Guyana.
Our project at Jonestown in taking hold and succeeding dramatically, as we are assisted and inspired by both the government and churches of your lovely land. For your own encouragement and concern, Rev. Cockburn, we are deeply grateful.
Pastor Jones has always taken note of and expressed appreciation for those who are making positive contributions in the communities and nations in which they live. May I express, then, on his nehalf, and the Temple membership as well, our high regard for all you are doing to bring the love of our God and Savior to those in need in a tangible, practical way.
We remain sincerely yours,
Jean F. Brown
Secretary for Peoples Temple
P.S. I have enclosed a few brochures about our recent outreach programs here in the States, which I hope will be of some interest to you.
—-
D-2-T-65
[notation at top of page] Mr. Aaron passed away Sept 1976 received invitation to funeral, but we were out of town – sent card to Rev. Aaron’s wife of condolence]
28 April 1975
Mr. Reginald Aaron
c/o Guyana Council of Churches
71 Murray Street
Georgetown, GUYANA
Dear Mr. Aaron:
I wish to take this opportunity to offer you my congratulations on your recent appointment to the post of Treasurer of the Guyana Council of Churches. Pastor Jim Jones and our entire congregation are very pleased with the great strides that are being made in Guyana, and, as you may know, we have begun an agricultural mission program in the Northwest District, where we hope to be of service to the people there.
Our Pastor has always emphasized the high priority of serving others, and we are very gratified to be associated with your nation where this spirit of service is so manifest. I have had the privilege of visiting Guyana, and I found the people very warm and hospitable.
May I offer you, on behalf of Pastor Jones and our church, my sincere best wishes for a productive and satisfying tenure in your new responsibility.
Faithfully yours,
/s/ Prof. Richard D. Tropp
Prof. Richard D. Tropp
Assistant-to-the-Pastor
P.S. I have enclosed a few items on our church for your interest.
—-
D-2-T-66
[Peoples Temple letterhead]
April 25, 1975
Reverend F. B. Cockburn
51 High and Leopold Streets
Werk-en-Rust
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Reverend Cockburn:
On behalf of Pastor Jim Jones and our Peoples Temple of the Disciples of Christ congregations throughout California, I would like to congratulate you on your recent honor of being awarded the Chairmanship of the Guyana Council of Churches. Pastor Jones and those of us in Peoples Temple have heard such favorable comment about you that we are indeed please to learn of your new position of added trust and responsibility. Through our numerous contacts with churchmen through-out Guyana, we already know of your humanitarian character and compassion for others. It is the feeling that you are the best choice for the job.
All of us in this congregation of many thousands of interracial people are pleased to be sponsoring a large agricultural station in the Port Kaituma area. We give thanks that God has blessed our mission to progress so successfully. We have made this commitment in face of world food crisis, and have been greatly encouraged and impressed by the Church in Guyana and its example of concern for the needs of others. We are very enthusiastic about our project, and it is our earnest hope that His work will be furthered through whatever contribution we may make to Guyana through the enlightened F.C.H. program.
Pastor Jones sends you his warmest greetings and hopes that this note of congratulations finds you healthy and prospering in the work of Our Saviour.
Most sincerely yours,
/s/ Mrs. Jean F. Brown
Secretary
—-
D-2-T-67
[Peoples Temple letterhead]
April 28, 1975
Reverend Oswald Dest
C/O Guyana Council of Churches
71 Murray Street
Georgetown, Guyana
Dear Reverend Dest:
Congratulations are most heartily and warmly extended to you for your appointment to the post of Secretary of the Guyana Council of Churches. Pastor Jim Jones and the many thousands of members of Peoples Temple Christian Church of the Disciples of Christ denomination, in both California and Guyana, send our greetings and best wishes for your continued successful service in His name.
Through our many contacts with churchmen throughout Guyana, we have heard the finest commendations of you, and are convinced you bring an excellent background and dedication to the job. Our very sincere support goes out to you in your new endeavors.
As you may know, we are in the process of establishing an agricultural mission in Guyana’s Northwest Region. We are pleased to work in complete co-operation with the government F.C.H. program, for it is our belief that the highest worship to God is manifested in service to our fellow man. God has indeed blessed our project to be greatly successful, and for this we are deeply grateful.
In friendship and His Truth we remain sincerely yours,
Jean F. Brown
Secretary
—-
Temple correspondence with Rev. Hassan Abraham
D-2-T-27
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Rev. Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana, SOUTH AMERICA
Dear Rev. Abraham,
It is so good to hear from our Guyanese friends! Bishop Jim Jones always has deep love in his heart for you all, and likes to hear news of you and your families. He will meditate for you, and desires prosperity and lasting peace for the people of your land.
We are greatly excited about our Agricultural Mission, “Jonestown”, which is producing food in great abundance. It is wonderful to work for the ideals of brotherhood and cooperative life, and our agricultural workers feel spurred on by the Guyanese endeavors to feed, clothe and house the nation. They feel at home in a land which is doing so much for its people, and they want to contribute in any way they can.
Our programs here continue around the clock, with efforts especially to give those in need a just and better life. Bishop Jones is helping us to teach even the smallest child that when equality is a way of life, there are better and happier conditions for all. We all grow in our awareness because of his tender concern for those whom life has neglected or cast aside.
It is Jim Jones’ and our pleasure to receive mail from you. He sends his love and looks forward to further strides ahead in Guyana each day.
With Sincere Best Wishes,
Annie L. Ray, Secretary
—-
D-2-T-30
[letter to Jim Jones from Rev. Hassan Abraham]
Rev. Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast, Guyana, South America
11th May, 1976
Dear Pastor Jones,
Greetings in the lovely name of our blessed Lord. I am most happy to learn that you have made a special call to anyonefinding out about me, my heart have been encourage to learn that you have been thinking about us. I thank God for a man like you, for your love & concern for the poor & destitute. I am confident that God has been revealing to you the needs of my self & family or you would have never call through. It was only yesterday that people come to my home requesting clothes for the poor & needy. And I promise that as soon as they arrive I’ll inform them, I was speaking by faith, knowing that our Lovely Pastor Jones is concern & will help.
It will be more convenient if the clothes can be posted directly from home office to Essequibo Coast. Our Prayers of thanks is going up for Pastor Jones & his wonderful & humble people. Looking forward to hearing from you & may our blessed Lord continue to bless & prosper you, and the more you give, the more he will give to you. God Bless.
Yours in Christ
Rev. Hassan Abraham
—-
D-2-T-31
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Rev. Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana, SOUTH AMERICA
Dear Rev. Abraham,
It is a great pleasure for Bishop Jim Jones to hear from you! Although he is many thousands of miles away, his heart is with you who are interested in the Peoples Temple work. He loves your land and its people, and sends his especially loving meditations to you.
We will put in another immediate request about your clothing situation, if there is any more available at this time, or if any has already been sent. Bishop Jones sends his loving greetings to all the people of your area.
Our Peoples Temple Agricultural Mission in the Northwest District has become a land of plenty for both our own agricultural workers and people of the surrounding areas. We are thrilled to be able to contribute our share to the outstanding efforts of the Guyanese government for all the people of the Cooperative Republic, and look forward to many years of prosperity and peace.
Our programs here continue to flourish in the many city environments in the United States that are so desperately in need of help. Thousands know Bishop Jones as a most concerned and loving friend, through whom Christ is working in the utmost! He never fails his faithful, and is ever at work to lessen the suffering of the impoverished, neglected and infirm. Many have undertaken the very special mission of adopting and caring for needy children because of the compassionate example he has set for us all.
You are remembered each day by Bishop Jones, and he sends his warmest greetings to you. Do feel free to write often.
With His Love,
Annie L. Ray, Secretary
—-
D-2-T-33
Deuteronomy 15:7. 36 If there among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of they gates in thy land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thy heart, nor shut thy hand from thy Poor Brother.
Psalm 41:1, Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver them in times of trouble. Psalm 19:17 [Editor’s note: The scripture is from Proverbs.] He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord, and that which he hath given will he pay him again.
Jesus said if thou will be perfect go and sell that thou heart, and give to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven, and come and follow me.
I know Pastor Jim Jones is a man at his word, and will not fail to help when it is in power to do so.
I am sure God has reveal to Pastor Jones by now our needs and condition in which we live and serve Christ. I thank God for Pastor Jones and his Loving people and followers. I am praying for all of you. May the peace and blessings of God Rest and abide with you all and may the power of Christ continue to burn in the Heart of Pastor Jones and his Followers. I close with Love in my heart for all of you. I am anxiously awaiting for a early reply with more incoming and sincere letter. God bless you all.
Love in Christ
Pastor Hassan Abraham
—-
D-2-T-34
[letter to Jim Jones from Rev. Abraham]
Rev. Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana, SOUTH AMERICA
24th of June 1976
Dear Rev. Jones,
Greetings in his Holy Name. Your kind letter was safely received, and contents carefully read, but was disappointed that nothing was mention about the request made in my last letter. A request was made for some more clothing for those people who were not members of our church and is deeply in need, they come running to my door asking if I have any clothing to give them. I promise them that I’ll write our beloved Pastor Jones who have a heart of Love and concern for them. I also mentioned the boxes to be posted directly to Lima, knowing that our friends are busy in The Agricultural Mission. Out of all the things that came the Last Time clothing fit our family and nothing fitted me. But oh! What a joy it was to make others happy. And I knew our Beloved Pastor Jones will be joiced to learn that poor hearts can be comforted and the poor have those needs met. I John 3: 17-18. Says But who hath this worlds goods and sees his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him now dwelleth the Love of God in him. My Little children let us not have love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth. James 2: 15-16 says if a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto the, depart in peace be ye warmed and filled; not withstanding ye have the, not those things which are headful to the body, what doth it profit?
—-
D-2-T-35
[letter to Debbie Touchette from Rev. Abraham]
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana 11th May 1976
Dear Mrs. Touchette,
Greetings in our Loving Saviour’s name.
Your letter dated 28th of April 1976 was safely received & joyfully read.
I am glad to be informed that Pastor Jones made a special called inquiry about me & thinking about me. We thank God for Pastor Jones & his Loving People, so humble, so kind. It was only yesterday that some one came asking me if I have any more clothes for some poor & destitute children, I promise them that as soon as I received I’ll inform them, that was speaking by Faith, knowing that Pastor Jones & his loving people are concerned & will be willing to help. May the Lord bless you real good we are praying for you. Looking forward to hearing from you soon.
I remain yours
Truly in Christian Love
Pastor Hassan Abraham
—-
D-2-T-37
[backside of previous envelope to Debbie Touchette]
Next time send Toy cards to all people in this stack
Doesn’t need ans[wer] but should be sent Toy card within the next month
—-
D-2-T-38
Hassan & Constance Abraham
140 Lima Baptist Mission
Essequibo Coast
Guyana
24.11.75
My dear sister in Christ
I would like to thank you so much on behalf of our Women in Lima, for the clothing you brought for us. We know the hardship in traveling to meet us here in Lima but I know that God is going to continue to bless you all Ministry. I want to tell you that we are grateful to Pastor Jim Jones who had made it possible for us to have the clothing distribution in Lima. Our women are happy. We know that pastor Jim Jones is a man of Love and he has put his Love into action. I trust that in the near future when ever clothing arrived that you are going to consider Lima because we are having lots and lots of poor people who are really in need and are thankful for your help. Our Sunday school children are happy over the many pairs of shoes that came for them none of the shoes or clothing fit my children the clothing was too big for them, shoes was too small for them. Any how I told them God sees there are persons who are in more need than they (the less fortunate) So I was telling my husband the other day if all the various Christian churches had a programme, like Pastor Jim Jones Today the Muslim and the Hindu religion would have been burned long ago and the Christian
—-
D-2-T-39
would have in the victory but the churches today are spiritually dead we all need an awakening and have a vision like Pastor Jim Jones. My sister in Christ that day when you visit us we felt sorry to know you all had to stay at a hotel we would have like you all to stay with us any have the next time should you call comer here on the coast you are free and welcome to stay with us, I wanted to call you aside that afternoon and talk with you but I was a bit shy. We had a problem that day we didn’t had a thing in the home to eat, my children was starving the fowls lay and two hours before you all arrive we had to [illegible word] and credit a few times from the shop so that my children could have eaten biscuits and eggs and right now my children gone to bed with nothing to eat but we are happy in the Lord. Perhaps God is blessing us weather he gave us breakfast or not we love him more I am asking you to remember us in your prayer day and night because we love the Lord and we could never be happy doing nothing else but just to be in God’s service. The devil is fighting hard for us to give up but we are not going to give him the victory. Continue to pray for us give our regard to Pastor Jim Jones and let him know how much we appreciate the clothing. Our hearts are fill with joy in being a part of his Ministry. May God continue to bless him and his entire congregation in his Service for Christ. Nothing more to say until I hear from you.
Yours in Christ
Constance Abraham
On behalf of the Women in Lima
—-
D-2-T-41
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana, SOUTH AMERICA
Dear Brother Abraham,
Pastor Jim Jones sends his loving and heartfelt greetings to you across the seas! He and his entire congregation of many thousands here have come to feel very close to the people of Guyana through our work of the Agricultural Mission there. and the many wonderful reports we receive. We are proud that our young people and children who are in your nation are able to grow and develop their skills in the harmonious atmosphere of your cooperative republic. We are glad to hear of Paula Adams’ visit, and we hope to be able to visit again.
Pastor Jones sends special blessings and meditations to those who write from Guyana, and he wants you to know his most tender concern for you and those you love. We are eager to have you share the knowledge of this great ministry, which has delivered the sick, troubled and outcast even thousands of miles away! Indeed, distance is of no account with such a powerful outreach of unfeigned Love.
Our Agricultural Mission has progressed so rapidly that we are now able to produce not only plenty for our co-workers there to eat, but also a surplus to help in the worthwhile work of nation building. Our Pastor is deeply sensitive to the needs of the hungry and down-trodden all across the globe, and one of our greatest fulfillments is to know that we can reach beyond ourselves to help a troubled world.
Our warm encouragement goes out to you to write Pastor Jones often, and you can always be assured of his interest and deep desire for your greatest good. He is thinking of you with deep and abiding love, and looks forward to hearing from you
With His Love,
Annie L. Ray, Secretary
—-
D-2-T-42A
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist
Church Essequibo
Coast Guyana
17th Nov 1975
Dear Pastor Jones,
Greetings in the wonderful name of our blessed Lord. This is to let you know how grateful we are to you, my self, wife, children, and the Brethren and deeply [illegible] by such a Loving experience that they have never experience before they had several preachers coming and preaching boldly to them without paying any attention to their physical needs but Pastor Jones they have never seen him, and only heard of him and he came for their needs.
Miss Annie Ray, I received your loving letter safely on the 12th of this month, and to the worship of God, the same day Mrs Paula Adams and another sister came into our church and brought some clothing, they are sweet and kind and humble people. We had coffee together, myself and wife enjoyed their company. We only wish they could have stay longer. My self and wife were happy to help others our hearts went out for the people. My wife and I said we love helping others and we pray that we can continue with such a ministry. How grateful were the people, most of the things were not new but never the less the people were grateful and how they cherished them especially the children’s clothing and the shoes
—-
D-2-T-42B
we did not had enough for every one and some of the people children cried but we promised them to wait until Pastor Jones send again and they will get. I realized that its very difficult and discomforting for Mrs Paula Adams to travel to Essequibo that we are asking if its possible to send the clothing to Lima, please tell Pastor Jones when ever he comes to Guyana please come and visit us, we will love to meet him. I personally will be delighted to meet him, I love him before I see him. May God gave us more men like Pastor Jones, a man who cares for the needs of his people. I want to be in a ministry that cares for the needs of others. Action speaks louder than voice. Many thanks for the donations I also received, I read all of them and after reading I am deeply convinced that Pastor Jones is a man of God, also thanks for the Beautiful picture of your Lovely Church, I would really like to visit that church and meet with its lovely people. I would really like to continue doing this wonderful work is seeing the needs of people we met, And I kindly asking that this be continue, if only I had a camera I would have sent him some pictures of the [illegible] that he have brought to many poor children. May the Lord continue to Bless and Prosper Pastor Jones and his Loving people as he continues this Christ counted work. My heart goes out to the people especially at Christmas time. May the Lord Bless all of you give our love to Pastor Jones. We would like to meet him. So long and write soon!
Please forward us in your prayers myself and wife and family as trusting the Lord for our needs. May God bless you.
Pastor Abraham
—-
D-2-T-45
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
April 28, 1976
Dear Pastor Abraham,
Pastor Jim Jones and all members of the Peoples Temple Christian Church greet you in the name of Christ and Brotherhood!
Pastor Jones who is residing in our home office state-side, made a special call requesting that you be contacted and thanked for your warm letters and kind thoughts. Pastor Jones is looking forward to hearing from you again. He wishes you to know he is thinking of you, and God’s blessings be with you.
In Christian Love,
Mrs. Deborah Touchette
—-
D-2-T-46
Rec’d Nov 22, 1975
Ans’d Nov 26, 1975
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana, 17th Nov 1975
Dear Mrs. Adams,
Greetings in the name of our blessed Lord. I would like you to know how grateful we are to you and Pastor Jones for your kind gift to the people, oh, how people were delighted for the things especially the children’s clothing and the lovely shoes. My self and wife hearts have been deeply touch. For the deep interest that Pastor Jones and his people have for the needs of others. And we pray that such a ministry will continue, and my self and wife would like to have a part in this great Ministry of helping others, how happy we felt to see others happy. May the Lord Bless Pastor Jones and his people.
I wasn’t to say how happy we felt to have you and your friend visiting, we enjoy your company. We find both of you loving, kind, concern, and humble. And we love you both, we wish if you could have stayed longer. My tongue and pen cannot express the feelings of our heart for your sacrifice in coming up here. We thank God for both of you. Do feel free to come again and when you come please come and stay with us. We would love to have you stay with us. We love you and we thank you very much for your love in action. Do remember us in your prayers. And may God give you grace and strength to continue this lovely work in helping others, the children send their love to you and friend especially [illegible name]. I close with Love and may Gob bless you. Write soon
Pastor Abraham
—-
D-2-T-48
[letter to Paula Adams from Rev. Abraham]
Rec’d Oct. 28 1975
Visited Nov 12, 1975
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana 22nd Oct 1975
Dear Mrs Adams,
Greetings in the wonderful name of our Saviour. This is to let you know that I’ve received you loving letter dated 2nd of October 75. I did received the loving gift of $150.00 from you, and I also reply to you acknowledging with a greatful heart for your loving gift. I also write asking where could I locate you in George Town, so we could meet I am hoping to meet with some of you. If I know where you are located when ever I am in George Town I will be glad to come and meet you. All I have is your P.O. Box No 893. I am glad to hear you have some clothing for us. I od not know when I will be in George Town, for me to travel to George Town is very expensive and I do not stay very long maybe a day or two. But if I know where you are located when ever I am in George Town I will be glad to meet with you. May the Lord continue to bless you why not plan to come and spend a few days with us here at Lima even if its for a week end. My wife will be delighted to meet with you for fellowship, also the Brethren. So Long. God Bless. Write soon.
Your Humble Servant
Pastor Hassan Abraham
P.S. My reply was sent to Rev. John Brown. George Town Resident Minister.
—-
D-2-T-50
2nd October, 1975
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Mission
Essequibo Coast
Guyana
Dear Pastor Abraham;
Greetings to you in the name of our most Holy Savior. We have not heard from you in such a long time, we are hoping that all is going well. We wish to know if the check reached you safely as we have not gotten an acknowledgement that you received it. We sent it last February at Pastor Jim Jones request. We were not able to get to you to deliver the clothing, therefore, a donation was sent.
If you are ever in the Georgetown area, please let us know and we can make arrangements to meet with you. We still have some clothing here for you, but I am afraid it is impossible to get it to your location any time soon, as our volunteer agriculture missionaries are all heavily loaded with work in the interior.
The project is doing well and through the blessings of Christ, we have been able to produce kitchen vegetables for the entire Port Kaituma area, and acres of corn, cassava, banana, plantain, and other crops to assist in Guyana’s development.
With the continued protection form our most Divine Guiding Light we will progress in this work of our Loving Savior. Pastor Jones has spoken of you often with a great deal of respect.
Peace and Love to you
In Christ’s Name,
Paula Adams
Secretary
—-
D-2-T-51
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Church
Essequibo Coast
Guyana, SOUTH AMERICA
Dear Pastor Abraham,
Greetings to you, our Guyanese friend! Pastor Jones received and read your letter with deep interest in you and the needs and concerns of your life. He and our entire congregation look to the Guyanese Cooperative Republic with a glow of enthusiasm, and we are so glad we can participate in the far-reaching programs of feeding, clothing and housing the nation.
Do feel free to write Mrs Adams, and ask where it might be most convenient to meet with her in Georgetown. We are sure she would like to meet you and exchange thoughts. Pastor Jones wants you to feel the special measure of his concern, and to know that whatever the distance in miles, his heart and mind are close to all who write to him here. All his life, he has worked for complete equality between women and men of every race, nation and creed, and to see this made a reality is his great-est aspiration. As God is no respecter of persons, Christ’s love works tirelessly through him to meet others’ needs, and to guarantee just and loving conditions of life for all.
Our Agricultural Mission, “Jonestown” is flourishing more abundantly than we here could even imagine, as we have seen from photographs. Our people there are inspired by the selfless motivation of our Pastor, as well as the incomparable beauty of the Guyanese land. We are blessed by a more bountiful harvest each day.
We hope you will feel free to write always. If you desire closer contact, Mrs. Paula Adams can be written at P.O. Box 893, Georgetown. Pastor Jones has your best interests at heart, and sends you the most loving, heart-felt meditations in Christ.
With Blessings and Love,
Annie L. Ray, Secretary
—-
D-2-T-52
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist
Church Essequibo
Coast Guyana
22nd Oct. 1975
Dear Pastor Jones,
Greetings in the name of our Blessed Lord, this is to inform you that I’ve received your letter safely on the 30th of September 75. Many thanks for the kind and loving words from your nice secretary. I understand that you posted the clothes, and when you understand that we did not received it, you send an offering, Well I am sorry to say we did not received any such offering, clothes, nothing. But we are not giving up hope we know some thing went wrong some way. We still love you weather you give or not, we know you are true to your words.
I made several attempts to locate Mrs. Paula Adams, all I got is her P.O. Box no 893. When I travel to Georgetown I do not know where to look for her.
May the Lord Bless you real good and make you a Blessing. I am glad you are concern about my needs. Please reply soon, thank you, God Bless you.
Your Servant for
Christ Sake
Hassan Abraham
P.S. I did received a cheque but that was several months about 9 months ago. It was $50 Guyana Dollars from George Town and I reply to that saying how greatful and thankful I am from that blessed gift.
—-
D-2-T-54A
[Handwritten letter to Jim Jones from Rev. Hassan Abraham]
LIMA BAPTIST MISSION
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist
Mission Essequibo
Coast Guyana
27th Jan 1975
Dear Pastor Jones,
Greetings in the Loving Saviour’s name, This is to let you know that I’ve received your lovely and kind letter, with enclose gift. My heart was deeply touch by your love and concern for the needs of others and for my need, indeed you are a man of God and with the heart like Christ himself. As soon as I received your letter with gift enclose, I call my family around me and kneel in prayer and thank the God of Heaven for his care and ask God to bless you.
Please permit me to share this testimony. My last boy [illegible name] 4 yrs old, could not have turn out to school because of his needs and God used you, because he will [illegible sentence] My motorcycle did not have a license for 1975 and after 4 days [illegible word] and I could not have used it but God showed you my need. My wife is sick and could just see a doctor again. God used you, and finally I have 12 chickens that had a little food left God used you and I was able to buy a sack this morning. Praise God for you. May the blessings of God be upon you and your kind and loving people. I am really touched by your love and concern for my self and family, God showed you my needs. I can even see that your people are also very kind and loving by the letters I received, such kind and encouraging, and even their testimonies have bless my heart. I must also thank
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you for your kind invitation to come and visit with you and to make my self at home. I’ll be most delighted to come and share some things about Guyana to your wonderful congregation and to share my testimony and to worship with you.
I am anxious to meet with you after hearing so many nice things about you. I feel personally related to you.
I am waiting a reply concerning your decision to keep meetings here in Essequibo at Lima.
I am glad and very greatful for your prayers to God for me and my personal needs. I would love to meet with you. I close with deepest love and gratitude to you and your people. May the blessings of God rest and abide with you, you remind me of Jesus. God bless you, enclose is a photo of our building and my testimony, and my family.
I remain yours
Servant for Christ
Hassan Abraham
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D-2-T-55A – 55B
[pamphlet article from Hassan Abraham and his church]
Dear Editor,
Greetings in our Savior’s precious Name: I’ve received two packages of YOUTH safely. Thanks a lot for them. The children love them. I have found them very helpful and inspiring for the Sunday school. I have already given one each to every teacher and told them to study it and pre-sent the lesson to their classes, before giving it out to the children.
I have recently been out of the country at-tending a convention in Bogota, Colombia. I just returned and decided to wrote you my testi-mony.
My father is from Palestine, Jordan; my mother is Guyanese. When my father came to this country he brought with him not only his customs, but also his religion. He was and still is a devoted Muslim. I was raised a strict Muslim but that religion never satisfied me, even in my childhood I was seeking God.
Since my religion was not enough for me I tried the world drinking, stealing, running after prostitutes, interrupting gospel meetings on the stress and indoors, etc. At the age of 18 I found a gospel tract explaining God’s salvation plan. I fell on my knees and received Christ into my life. I found a new joy and at last I bad some-thing to live for.
Then God called me to preach the gospel and I attended the Baptist Theological Institute here in Guyana. Because of my stand for Christ, I was despised in my father’s home. One day my father told me he would rather see me drunk thank serving Christ.
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[pictures of Hassan Abraham and family]
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D-2-T-56
P.O. Box 214<
Redwood Valley, California 95482
21/1/75
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Mission
Essequibo Coast,
Dearest Pastor Abraham:
Kindest greetings to you in the name of Jesus Christ. We couldn’t tell you how much we appreciated your letter of support. Pastor Jones was deeply touched by your letter, and asked me to write and let you know of his thankfulness to you. Since I was flying over from the states, I decided to bring this letter along to mail from Georgetown, hoping it would get to you sooner than if it was mailed from the U.S. The letter you sent to Box 893 was forwarded on to Pastor Jones in the states so that he could read it personally, since it was such a touching letter.
Many religious people have also written or contacted us in numerous ways to let us know of their wholehearted support, and we are tremendously grateful for all of you. Our opposition has been vocal but small.
Thank you again for your offering of help, and we hope that we can be of assistance to you. We do not as yet know what our future plans will be in regards to holding meetings in Guyana, but we will certainly let you know whatever we decide. In the meantime, Pastor Jones asked me to tell you that he would certainly be praying to God for your needs, and the needs of your wonderful congregation. You people are certainly worthy of the highest good, and we know that God smiles upon you because of the wonderful Christian lives you are living. Thank you again, too, for your offer of your facilities and we will let you know if we will be able to accept. Pastor Jones said he would love to meet you and all of your dedicated people. He sends his deepest love and most heartfelt gratitude to all of you.
In Christ’s Holy Name,
Mrs. Karen L. Layton
Secretary to the Pastor
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D-2-T-57
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Mission
Essequibo Coast, Guyana
Dear Pastor Abraham,
Greetings to you in the name of our most Holy Saviour. Pastor Jim Jones is deeply touched by your interest and concern in ministering to those in need and has asked that we contact you and assist you in your clothing distribution program.
Pastor Jones hopes that the enclosed check will help some to find relief. We had hoped to be able to come in person but due to the pressing work of our agricultural mission, we will not be able to visit you at this time. If you are ever in Georgetown or Port Kaituma, we hope that you will stop and visit with us. We have been told many beautiful things about your willingness to be a servant of Christ by following his example of love and sharing. Pastor Jones has spared no words of his appreciation for this Christian spirit.
Our agricultural mission is steadily progressing and we can certainly count our blessings as Christ protects us daily. The love for and desire to be of service to other human beings has been the consistent example that Pastor Jones has taught and been for us, through the ever-present example of Jesus Christ.
We hope to hear from you again and to visit with you when you can get a chance to come to either Georgetown or Port Kaituma, or even in the United States.
Peace and Love to you
In Christ’s Name,
Rev. John Brown
Georgetown Resident Minister
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D-2-T-58A
[Peoples Temple Letterhead]
Pastor Hassan Abraham
Baptist Church
139 Lima
Essequibo, Coast
GUYANA
Dear Pastor Abraham,
May Christ’s rich blessings be upon you and your flock! Thank you for your most kindly letter to Pastor Jim Jones. He deeply appreciates your generous offer of your church building for services, and your ecumenical spirit that prompted such a response. We hope that, should you come to the United States, you will visit with us, and make yourself at home; and share with our congregation news of your lovely land, Guyana.
Some of our parishioners are presently ministering in Georgetown, and they will be in personal contact with you soon (if not already by the time this reaches you). We have shipped clothing to you, for Pastor Jones has personal concern for all families who have need. We believe in sharing of our abundance, and even many of our Senior members have taken to making home-sewn cloth-ing and quilting to be of further help to the missionary program. Pastor Jones especially loves little children. Many of our families have legally adopted homeless child-ren after the example of Pastor Jones and his dedicated wife, Marceline, who have themselves adopted right child-ren of different ethnic and racial backgrounds.
I am myself one of many hundreds of young people who were lost, confused and lonely when we first came to the Peoples Temple Christian Church. The Holy Spirit working through Pastor Jones saw my need, and enabled him to tell me my name, address, and many things about my life, although he had never met me before and I had spoken to no-one in the congregation. I was immediately given a home. I learned to share in productive church work including tutoring children, helping in our correspondence ministry, and giving free mus-ic lessons. I have found the love of God in this ministry as I had never even imagined, and the people are more kind and compassionate than any I had ever known. Our Pastor’s
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selfless devotion to Christian Service to help humanity in need is what has guided my footsteps, and taught me the higher path of Christian Love. Our meetings ring with this kind of testimony and praise. Over one hundred young people are now being supported through college who could not have otherwise attended. An even larger number have been saved from the destructive and terrifying world of drug abuse. My own life has also been spared several times from fatal accidents, and I feel humbly grateful to the prophetic and loving power of God working through our Pastor.
We have great anticipations for our Agricultural Mission in Guyana, to participate with the Guyanese people in building a more abundant nation. We are greatly thrilled at the response we have been receiving from people who attended the meeting in Georgetown, or who heard from others of the many miracles that were wrought by God. We have witnessed many many amazing miracles each service we meet here in California and feel joy now in sharing this rich, greatly satisfying spiritual food, and making this material commitment to Christ, alongside the people of Guyana.
In Christ’s Love, Pastor Jones sends his greetings to you and your congregation. Please accept the enclosed check for $50.00 in appreciation for your support. Pastor Jones is confident you will carry on good works in the name of Christ. Please feel free to write often, for your needs and concerns are important to him.
Most Sincerely,
Laurie Efrein,
Secretary to Pastor Jim V. Jones
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[copy of $50.00 check sent to Rev. Abraham from Peoples Temple]
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D-2-T-60
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist
Church Essequibo
Coast, Guyana
2nd Jan 1975
Dear Pastor,
Greetings in Jesus wonderful name, my name is Hassan Abraham and Pastor for the Lima Baptist Church, I have recently read in one of our leading news paper the Guyana Daily Chronicle of the Ministry of Pastor Jim Jones I am delighted in his visions, his plans, and motives. I am already amazed of the wonderful things he has already done and his doing in Guyana, he also encourages us to write to this address (which I am now replying to) for any assistance that may be needed.
We at Lima Baptist Church will like you to know that we will make our church building available for any service that he wants to keep also our mission home, where I lived is also available. I will be glad if you can please help me in mining some chicks to assist me in the Gospel Ministry. Also I be delighted if you can please send some clothing to assist some of our needy members & their children. Also any medical aid will be deeply appreciated. May the blessings of God Rest and abide with you, praise the Lord for a ministry like Bishop Jim Jones, He have my whole hearted support. May God Bless him.
Yours in his service
Hassan Abraham
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D-2-T-62A
Pastor Hassan Abraham
139 Lima Baptist Mission
Essequibo Coast,
12th of Jan 1975
My Beloved Pastor Jim,
Greetings in our Loving Savior’s Name, My name is Hassan Abraham Age 32 Nationality Arab Guyanese My father is from Palestine Gordan, came to Guyana and married my mother a Guyanese, he is still alive and living in Georgetown. I was a devoted Muslim, but was converted to Jesus Christ about 11 yrs ago, then I received my call to preach part time, then full time. I am now Pastor for a little country church in Essequibo with about 30 members. I am married with four children ages 10, 9, 7, and 4. Two boys and two girls. My reason for writing you is to encourage you, my self and wife was following those articles publish in the Daily Graphic. As a matter of fact I even wrote a letter to U.S.A. I had wanted to contact you long before now, but I did not know how or where so I was glad when you publish your local box 893. From the very first time you answered your service I was tempted to attend but due to the distance and finance I was unable to attend. I will like to let you know that on behalf of the members of Lima Baptist Mission, the people on the Essequibo Coast, and my self and family that we love you and will like you to remain in Guyana. We want to thank you for what you have done for my fellow Guyanese, it was from a heart of love and we are glad
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that Christ can demonstrate in his Love through you, this is Love in action, thanks for clothing them, housing those in North West District and employing some and for purchasing land to feed us. I am sure the government welcomes you and is delighted to have you supporting their programme in housing, feeding and clothing the nation. Do not pay attention to the hearts of Satan. Satan is not please with what is going on, and when ever there is opposition there is the signs of blessings. I will be glad to personally meet with you for us to make plans for you to come to Essequibo Coast, we will be glad to have you come to preach for us, and to see what further help you can do for us in Essequibo, but most urgent need is clothes for our people and for medical. We will be most delighted and honored to have you staying with us. And to show you around. Other churches have already praised you for what you are going because they were here for you and have not half as much, and they will not like you for this, because you have escaped those hypocrisies and they will speak evil of you. But I know your messages will have weight because you practice what you preach. I personally are in need of pulpit clothes, I am in God’s service full time because he calls me and I answer his call. I lease my job from Lima to be here in Essequibo as Pastor. I have a lovely chicken pen large enough to mine about one hundred chicks, I have twelve, I will like to have some more chicks to mine but my finance can’t afford to purchase them with the feed. But I am trusting God to supply my need to help me
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get started so I can do some thing to feed my self and family and also to remain in the Gospel Ministry. I can also speak for some of our Baptist Pastors that if we have had such opportunity. Many would not have to find them selves secure employment as some have to do and rob their time in the Lord’s service. So Pastor Jones, if you are interested and I know you are because you told us to write you, you can reply to this letter so we can arrange to have you here, our Home and Chapel is available to you at any time. May the Lord continue to bless you and your group God may he continue to make your ministry a successful one in Guyana. Remember what God told Paul in Acts 18:9, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city. So my beloved, speak and hold not thy peace, and do not let Satan have the victory for God have much people in Guyana. We love you, and we thank God for you, and I know you have God’s people backing you in prayers. So long and write soon. This is a man sent from God whose name is Jim Jones. God bless you,
Your most honorable
Servant Hassan Abraham
Pastor for Lima Baptist Church.
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