This is a message that the preacher would wish every Free Presbyterian to listen to and share with friends who care for the wellbeing of God's cause in Ulster. God's people have pilgrimaged to this chapter in 1st Samuel throughout the ages in times of spiritual declension for it contains comfort, guidance and hope for just such a season. Israel was in dire spiritual straits at this time in her history, verse 2. The circumstances of the ark of the covenant illustrates for us the state of religion back then. It was out of its rightful place. It was not cared for by those ordained to the task by God. It was not used as God intended . It remained in this state a long time. (About 40-50 years until David brought it to Jerusalem, 1 Chron 13:6.) The scene pictures for us the state of affairs in Ulster today. Thirty-four years ago, we, in the FPC, were enjoying times that were spiritually much more encouraging. The beginning of the work here in Kilskeery was illustrative of the spirit of awakening that was evident in many places where such new witnesses were beginning. The cause of the gospel had been revived in Kilskeery some years earlier in 1968-70 when some 14-16 adults and young people had been converted within the Kilskeery area. A prayer meeting and children's meeting had commenced along with a monthly gospel service. On this date, in 1974, a new gospel hall was opened to accommodate the new witness.