It was a dark scene but a busy one. The natural light of day had long since given way to the artificial light of night, but activity seemed to be everywhere. Religious services had just ended throughout the city, and ushers were returning the rubberwheeled collection baskets to their appointed resting place at the end of a long aisle. Still more ushers were busy at another task - pulling paper tapes, counting coins, and sliding drawers. Not our typical picture of a religious service, but very religious nonetheless. The service had been extremely well attended. The people themselves obviously believed in what they were doing, and their behavior between services very much reflected the strength of their belief.

The sermon had a tone of preparation and expectancy. Something was coming. Sears…