9. That the following ministers and gentlemen of different denominations constitute the Committee of the Society, with power to add to their numbers, and appoint all other officers:
That cordial thanks be rendered to those by whom the duties of the office have heretofore been fulfilled—and that James B. Brown, Esq., LL. D., be requested to become Treasurer to this Institution.
10. That the Meeting avail themselves gladly of another opportunity to reiterate their grateful expressions to John Wilks, Esq., M.P., the Honorary Secretary of the Society from the formation, for the zeal and prudence he has displayed—and for the devotedness and ability with which he has often resisted intolerance and persecution, and struggled for that vital and glorious liberty, to which he has long proved himself to be entirely attached.
11. That the Society cheerfully offer their acknowledgments to those members of the Legislature who have presented their petitions and laboured on their behalf; and hailing with gratification the presence at this Meeting ofJoseph Brotherton, Esq., M. P.,William Ewart, Esq., M. P.,Daniel Whittle Harvey, Esq., M. P.,Charles Lushington, Esq., M. P.,Daniel O'Connell, Esq., M. P.,Richard Potter, Esq., M. P.,Joseph Scholefield, Esq., M. P.,T. Thornely, Esq., M.P., andMatthew Wood, Esq., M.P., they hope during future efforts to receive their unabated support.
12. That this Meeting are also rejoiced by the presence of the Rev. Dr. Codman, the Rev. Dr. Humphrey, the Rev. Dr. Spring, and the Rev. Mr. Baird from America—and congratulate them and the world on the proofs supplied by their interesting, enlightened, and prosperous country in favour of the voluntary principle in matters of religion, and which demonstrate that her grace and glories may be well and widely diffused without alliance to the State.
BROUGHAM, (Chairman.)
13. Thatthis Society, who have hailed as Chairmen at preceding Anniversaries some of the most distinguished Royal and Noble advocates for Civil and Religious Liberty, feel peculiar pleasure in expressing their gratitude and delight thatthe Rt. Hon. Lord Broughamhas presided at their Meeting this day. Assured of the cordiality and success with which for many years, he has dedicated his intellect, eloquence, and vast attainments, to the cause of Education—to the abolition of Slavery—to the accomplishment of legal, corporate, and public reforms—and to the general amelioration of his country and the world—the Meetingare cheered by the interest he has manifested in the claims and wrongs of the hundreds of thousands of their countrymen whom they represent—and anticipate from the powerful support he can supply that ere long victory will smile on their efforts, and that knowledge, truth, and liberty will for ever prevail.
THE LEICESTERSHIRE BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.
The Baptist churches in Leicestershire, formerly connected with the Northamptonshire Association, which embraced most of the churches in the counties of Derby, Rutland, Leicester, Nottingham, Lincoln, Buckingham, Bedford, and Northampton, impressed with a conviction that its efficiency was considerably impaired by its extent, thought it desirable to form a separate Association, which should be more limited in its range, and more definite end concentrated in its efforts.
In pursuance of this object, a meeting of ministers and deacons, with their friends, was convened in the school-room of the Harvey Lane chapel, Leicester, on Monday, November the 10th, 1834; when the following resolutions were unanimously passed:—
1. That the churches of the Calvinistic Baptist denomination, assembling at Arnsby, Appleby, Husband's-Bosworth, Loughborough, Harvey-Lane, Leicester, Monk's-Kirby, Oadby, Sheepshead, and Sutton-in-the-Elms, do now form themselves into a Union, to be called "The Leicestershire Baptist Association."
2. That the great design of this Union be the promotion of the kingdom of Jesus Christ; by holding meetings for mutual exhortation and united prayer;—by affording opportunities for the cultivation of brotherly love between the ministers and members of the several churches; by endeavouring to advance the cause of the Redeemer throughout the county.
3. That this Association hold its meetings twice a year—on the Tuesday in Easter week, and on the first Tuesday in November: and that they be holden at each place connected with the Union in its turn; each minister being expected to preach in his course. And that at the Spring meeting a report of the state of the churches be received, and the business of the Association transacted.
4. That with a view to the relief of cases of ministerial distress, to assist in carrying the gospel into neglected villages, and to defray the necessary expenses of the Association, a fund be established, sustained by collections at the half-yearly meetings, as well as by private subscriptions. And that a Committee of Management be formed, composed of the ministers and deacons of the churches.
5. That all churches in the county or its vicinity, wishing to unite with the Leicestershire Association, be requested to convey their sentiments, either by letter or otherwise, through some member of the Union, at one of its regular meetings; and that such applications be attended to without delay.
6. That Mr. New, of Arnsby, be requested to act as Secretary, and Mr. C. B. Robinson, of Leicester, as Treasurer, for the first year; and that the Secretary be desired to give a fortnight's notice of each meeting to the ministers or deacons of the churches.
The Association held its first meeting at Arnsby, on Easter Tuesday, April 21. The services commenced, in the morning, at half-past ten o'clock, when communications were received from different churches; in the afternoon Mr. Aveline, of Loughborough, preached from Acts xvi. 5, "On the present state of religion in the churches, and the best means of promoting its improvement:" in the evening Mr. Mursell, of Leicester, preached from 1 Cor. xv. 24. The services were numerously attended, and left a very gratifying impression; from which it is hoped, that the Union may be productive of considerable good.
The next meeting of the Association will be held at the Harvey Lane chapel, Leicester, on the first Tuesday in November.
It is to be regretted that, from some misunderstanding, no numerical report was received from many of the churches; consequently, the results of the past year cannot be accurately recorded.
J. New,Secretary.
WELLS, SOMERSETSHIRE.
The following important and interesting case of the Baptist Church in the city of Wells, is respectfully submitted to the consideration of the friends of Zion.
In the year 1814 a few persons, desirous of advancing the cause of Christ in this populous city, opened a room for the preaching of the gospel, which, being well attended, led to the purchase of some freehold property, that was converted into a chapel and burial-ground, the cost of which was £540. This case received the sanction of the ministers in the neighbourhood, among whom were the Rev. Messrs. Ryland, Roberts, Murch, Saunders, and Tidman.
Subsequent to the removal of the first minister, the Rev. J. P. Mursell fixed his residence among them, and it pleased the great Head of the Church to bless his labours to such a pre-eminent degree, that it became absolutely necessary to build the present commodious chapel, which was opened in October, 1827, by the Rev. Robert Hall.
The cause, from that period, has been growing, until the Rev. Mr. Groser, their late pastor, embraced thesentimentsof Mr. Irving, and renouncedbelievers' baptism. Having given up his pastoral office over this church, and opened another place of worship in the city, many of the church and congregation followed him, which has placed this once flourishing interest in peculiar difficulties with regard to the finances. The sum expended in building the present chapel, including the debt remaining on the first purchase, is as follows:—
The ministers in the neighbourhood have kindly afforded their aid, and view this interest as one of no ordinary importance, since it presents an extensive field for the exercise of genuine benevolence. The deacons and friends, having the fullest confidence in the liberality of the Christian public, respectfully solicitearly donations, that they may be freed from the payment of interest money, by the present debt being liquidated, and thereby be enabled to give all their support to a faithful minister of the everlasting gospel. This hope is greatly strengthened by the consideration, that, through the blessing of God, the congregation is increasing, and the prayer-meetings are well attended. The following ministers will cheerfully receive contributions for the above case:—Rev. S. Summers, T. S. Crisp, and T. Winter, Bristol; J. Jackson, Bath; T. Clarke, Paulton, near Bath; J. Mason, Norton St. Philip's, near Bath; J. P. Mursell, Leicester; T. Price, London; J. S. Bunce, Devizes; W. Jones, and J. Dyer, Frome; and Mr. C. Tyte, Watchmaker, Wells.
CHAPELS OPENED.
KEYNSHAM, NEAR BRISTOL.
In the autumn of the last year it was found necessary to take down the old meeting-house, its dilapidated state having rendered it unsafe to worship in. A new one is erected on the same site, the internal arrangements of which are much more commodious than those of the former. It was opened for Divine worship on Tuesday, the 21st of April; on which occasion, Mr. Summers, of Broadmead, Bristol, preached in the morning, from 1 Cor. xiii. 12; Mr. Winter, of Counterslip, Bristol, in the afternoon, from Matt. xiii. 16, 17; and Mr. Lucy, of Lady Huntingdon's, Bristol, in the evening, from 1 Pet. iii. 18. The devotional services were conducted by Messrs. John Jackson and James Jackson, of Bath, Probert, of Bristol, and Fuller, of Hallen; Mr. Ayres, the pastor of the church, closing the services of the day with prayer and thanksgiving. The collection amounted to £32. The whole cost will be £700; about £300 remaining yet to be liquidated. The church and congregation, by no means opulent, have exerted themselves to the utmost, and would feel particularly grateful for such assistance from their Christian brethren as should render it unnecessary for their pastor to leave them for the purpose of soliciting contributions. They trust this new period in their history will be the commencement of a brighter day than any which has yet dawned upon them.
THOVERTON, DEVON.
A new Baptist chapel was opened for Divine worship at Thoverton, October 2nd, 1834; when the Rev. S. Nicholson, of Plymouth, preached in the morning; and the Rev. J. Baynes, of Wellington, in the evening. Mr. Hoskins, minister of the place, was publicly ordained and recognized as pastor of the church in the afternoon, when the Rev. P. Anstie, of Exeter, described the nature of a Christian church; the Rev. S. S. Hatch, of Honiton, asked the usual questions; the Rev. C. Sharp offered the ordination prayer; the Rev. Dr. Payne (Indep.), of the Western Academy, gave the charge; the Rev. Messrs. W. Blaudy (Indep.), C. Bushby, and R. Pyne, took part in the devotional services, which were numerously and respectably attended. This neat and substantial chapel, measuring 49ft. by 32ft., including two school-rooms, a small burying-ground, and expenses of writings, &c., cost only £480. Nearly one-third of the amount has been already obtained; for the remainder Mr. Hoskin is now soliciting the Christian public. The previous destitute state of this neighbourhood, and its present promising appearance, give it peculiar claims on their attention.
SHREWTON, WILTS.
A new chapel was opened at Shrewton, Wilts, November 20, 1834. The Rev. P. Saffery, of Salisbury, was to have preached the morning sermon, but in consequence of illness, his place was kindly supplied by the Rev. C. Williams, Independent minister of Salisbury. The afternoon and evening sermons were preached by the Rev. Messrs. Day, of Wincanton, and Winter, of Bristol.
The services were interesting and impressive. The pastor of the church at Shrewton, the Rev. J. Gunning, is about to appeal to the Christian public to aid his poor but zealous flock in liquidating the debt which remains on their new place of worship; and it is hoped that he will meet with kind and liberal encouragement.
HATHERLEIGH, DEVON.
On Thursday, the 12th of March last, the new Baptist chapel at Hatherleigh, Devon, was opened for Divine worship. In the morning, brother Veysey, of Torrington, read and prayed; and brother Nicholson, of Plymouth, preached from Matt. xiii. 33; and brother Pyne, of Bideford, closed in prayer. In the afternoon, brother Pyne read and prayed; and brother May, of Croyde, preached from Acts viii. 5. In the evening brother Pulsford, of Torrington, read and prayed; and brother Nicholson preached from John vi. 37, 38, and closed in prayer. Though the rain was tremendous all the forenoon, yet the place was crowded, and great numbers were prevented coming by the waters which overflowed the roads. This is a cause commenced by the Baptist friends of Torrington, and at present promises to be successful, far beyond the most sanguine expectations of its warmest friends.
A gallery appears to be much needed already. May the friends of the Redeemer be ready cheerfully to aid this poor but pious people in this good and very desirable work! The present erection is 45ft. by 28ft., and has cost about £300., of which not more than £50. has been raised. Here is a fine field for a home missionary. If a holy, active man could be placed there, there is good ground to expect a most abundant harvest.
ORDINATIONS.
CHATHAM, KENT.
On Thursday, February 26th, the Rev. F. Overbury was publicly recognized as the pastor of the Baptist church meeting in Providence Chapel, Chatham. The Rev. R. W. Overbury, of London, commenced the service with reading and prayer. The Rev. T. Price, of Devonshire Square, delivered the introductory discourse, asked the usual questions, and received Mr. Overbury's confession of faith. The Rev. W. G. Lewis, of Chatham, offered the ordination prayer. The Rev. W. H. Murch, president of Stepney College, gave the charge, from Col. i. 7; and the Rev. J. Smith, of London, preached to the people, from Phil. i. 27. The Rev. P. Thompson, A.M. (Indep.), concluded the interesting service with prayer.
ARTILLERY-STREET, LONDON.
On Wednesday, May 20, the Rev. C. Bathurst Woodman was publicly recognized as the pastor of the church assembling in Artillery-street, Bishopsgate without. The Rev. J. B. Shenston commenced the service by reading the Scriptures and prayer; Rev. N. M. Harry, of Broad-street, delivered the introductory discourse; the Rev. J. Belcher asked the usual questions; the Rev. A. Tidman, of Barbican, offered the designation prayer; and the Rev. J. E. Giles, of Salters' Hall, delivered the charge to the minister.
On the following evening, the Rev. T. Price, of Devonshire Square, preached to the people; the Rev. Messrs. Murch, president of Stepney College, Davies, of Aldermanbury, Peacock, of Spencer Place, &c., conducted the other parts of the service. The interest of the meeting on Wednesday was greatly increased by the presence of the venerable Isaiah Birt, who, though too ill to officiate, attended for the purpose of expressing his deep and affectionate interest in the welfare of his young friend, Mr. Woodman, and of the church assembling in Artillery-street chapel.
EVESHAM, WORCESTERSHIRE.
The Rev. J. Blakeman, late of Crayford, has accepted the unanimous invitation of the Second Baptist Church, Evesham, Worcestershire (late Rev. C. Room, removed to New Park Street, London), and entered on his stated pastoral labours the first Sabbath in April last.
DEPUTATION TO AMERICA.
The Secretaries of the Baptist Union have received a letter from Dr. Cox and Mr. Hoby, dated New York, April 15. We are happy to learn that our esteemed brethen reached the shores of America the preceding day in safety, and were then preparing to enter upon their arduous duty.
NOTICES.
The first Meeting of the East Kent Particular Baptist Association will be held (Providence permitting) at Dover, on Tuesday and Wednesday, June the 9th and 10th. The brethren, T. Cramp, of St. Peter's, and Steadman, of Ramsgate, to preach. On Wednesday evening a public meeting will be held, in order to form an Auxiliary Baptist MisssionarySociety for East Kent and its neighbourhood. The Rev. Eustace Carey is expected to be present.
The Annual Meeting of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Association of Baptist churches will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday in Whitsun week, in George-street chapel, Manchester. Brethren Godwin, Steadman, of Bradford, and Stephens, are to preach. In case of failure, brethren Acworth, of Leeds, Harbottle, of Accrington, and Larom.
Accommodation will be provided for such friends as may come from a distance.
The annual meeting of the Bristol Education Society will take place on Thursday, the 11th of June instant, at the vestry of Broadmead meeting, Bristol. The sermon will be preached by the Rev. James Acworth, of Leeds, at Broadmead meeting, at eleven o'clock in the forenoon.
The Annual Meeting of theBaptist Unionwill be held at New Park Street chapel, on Wednesday morning, June 17. Breakfast at six o'clock. The chair to be taken precisely at seven.
A preparatory meeting of the ministers and representatives will be held at Salters' Hall chapel, on Monday, June 15th, precisely at five o'clock in the afternoon; when it is earnestly hoped the brethren, especially those from the country, will attend.
The annual sermon for the Baptist Building Fund will be preached by the Rev. J. J. Davies, of Tottenham, on Sunday evening, June 14th, at Maze Pond chapel. Service to commence at half-past six.
The annual meeting will be held on Monday evening, June 22nd, at Eagle-street chapel, Red Lion Square; the chair to be taken by Joseph Fletcher, Esq., at half-past six.
RECENT DEATHS.
MRS. MARY MIDDLETON.
Died, on the 16th of April, in the eighty-fifth year of her age, Mary, relict of the Rev. J. D. Middleton, the first pastor of the Baptist church, Lewes, Sussex. For upwards of fifty years she honourably sustained the Christian character, and "came to her grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in in his season."
MR. NICHOLAS MEHL.
Died, on May 2nd, 1835, Mr. Nicholas Mehl, of Chiswick, a deacon of the Baptist church at Hammersmith, in his 82nd year. He was a native of Strasburg, in Germany, and left that country for England at the age of 19; was baptized by the Rev. J. Uppadine in the year 1806. He was one of the warmest friends to the Baptist cause at Hammersmith, and his unassuming simplicity of manners, purity of conduct, and marked benevolence of character, made him beloved by all who knew him. It may, with truth, be said, he devoted his time to the cause of God, paid much attention to the poor, and in promoting their comfort seemed to find his own happiness. May his aged widow, and the church with whom he has been so long connected, trace his footsteps, and follow him as far as he followed Christ. His remains were deposited in the vault beneath the school-room, attached to the Baptist meeting-house, on Thursday, the 7th of May, there to repose until the resurrection morn. The Rev. J. Uppadine improved his removal the following Sabbath morning, from Rev. vii. 14, to the end.
THE REV. SAMUEL SAUNDERS.
On Tuesday morning, May 19, at half-past one o'clock, died, suddenly, of a fit of apoplexy, in the 56th year of his age, the Rev. Samuel Saunders, for nine years pastor of the Baptist church assembling in Byrom-street, Liverpool. By this sudden and painful stroke the church is clad in mourning, and a deep and solemn impression is made in the town at large. A memoir of the deceased may soon be expected.
NEW PUBLICATIONS.
Just Published.
The Just Cause; or, the Claims of the Dissenters Expounded, and their Conduct Vindicated.
An Appeal to the Legislature and the Nation, upon the unconstitutional Character and irreligious Tendency of an Ecclesiastical Establishment, united with the Civil Government. By A. Z.
Strict Communion Vindicated. An Answer to the Question, "Why are you a Strict Baptist?" By John Bane, minister of the Gospel, Aylsham.
Errata.—In our last number, at page 185, for "tracts" of Elias Hicks, read "tenets." And in p. 186, after "bold," read "that of" the Apologist.
An esteemed correspondent, in forwarding recently a valuable contribution to the funds of the Baptist Irish Society, most justly remarks, "The Society has walked, perhaps more than any other, 'by faith, and not by sight.'" And, perhaps, whatever difficulties may have attended its walk, no society has received greater encouragement calmly to pursue "the even tenor of its way," or to "walk by the same rule," and to "mind the same thing." At the same time, it may not be improper to remind the considerate and generous benefactors of the institution, that "the administration of this service not only supplieth the wants of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God."
It is intended, Providence permitting, to hold the approaching Annual Meeting of the Society at the City of London Tavern, Bishopsgate Street, on Friday morning, the 19th instant. Breakfast at six o'clock, and the chair to be taken at seven precisely. It is expected that the Rev. William Thomas, of Limerick, one of the society's earliest agents, will be present, and communicate to the meeting much interesting intelligence.
On the previous Monday, the 15th instant, the claims of the society will be advocated, at the Rev. J. E. Giles's chapel, Salters' Hall, by the Rev. E. Steane, of Camberwell, who has kindly consented to preach the Annual Sermon. Service to commence at half-past six in the evening.
To theSecretary.
Limerick, April 18th, 1835.
My dear Sir,
Having only returned to this from various places where I have been visiting the schools and preaching as usual, and must go off in the morning to preach at Castle Connell and O'Briens bridge, and trying to grasp every thing, I have only time to write a few lines, and with them send the readers' journals, as they must go off by the next post, to be in time. I was much delighted with the Bristol and Keppel Street Schools, which I have just seen, though in different directions. I trust I was very useful at Ballycar, where a young lady, twenty years and two months old, was called in a few hours into eternity, the niece of Major Colpoys, and daughter of Alderman Abbott of Dublin; she died in the Lord, and left several unquestionable testimonies.
Purged in the flood which flowed from Jesu's side,She lived a Christian, and a Christian died.
Purged in the flood which flowed from Jesu's side,She lived a Christian, and a Christian died.
I attended her funeral, and gave several lectures at Ballycar, which I trust tended to instruct and comfort: several were much affected. I wrote since a letter, which I hope may be accompanied with a blessing to her amiable family in Dublin.
I have been since my return preaching at Castle Connell and at Cloughjordan, and have been this week to Maththeal, to try to get a place of our own in that town for preaching; it is much wanted, and it is the next town (though poor and yet populous) in consequence to Limerick in the county. Good Mr. Finch took me in his gig from Finchly, there and back; I lectured there, and he gave me £3. for the Society, and promised me another pound. He and his truly pious and worthy lady treated me with great kindness.
Your's, &c.W. Thomas.
To theSecretary.
Coolany, April 20th, 1835.
Dear Brother,
Notwithstanding all the opposition that is made to some of our schools in this district, still there is every reasonto believe that this opposition is useless, and, instead of the enemy accomplishing what he desires, it will by the blessing of God have a direct tendency to further the object it wishes to suppress, and strengthen the cause it aims to destroy. It appears to me that ignorance is already so far removed from the bulk of the peasantry, that every attempt to keep them from seeking instruction will prove a failure. It is evident to every one that makes a little observation, education is removing ignorance; and every attempt to stop its advancing progress will prove abortive, and from whatever persons it may proceed, will expose them to infamy and shame. However numerous may be our opposers, so long as we are pursuing the welfare of man in accordance with the principles of divine truth, whatever difficulties we may have to contend with, we need not be held in suspense with regard to the issue. May it be our concern to pursue our course in the spirit of Christians, then our feeble exertions will have the approbation and blessing of God! "And who is he that will harm you if ye be followers of that which is good?"
With this you will also receive the journals of the inspectors and sabbath readers. I hope that the Lord is blessing their labours in leading sinners to the knowledge of the truth, in promoting the doctrines of the gospel, and the advancement of his own glory. Many of the people are beginning to feel anxious to read the Scriptures for themselves, and to feel the importance of taking them as their only guide; and, whilst there are some that implicitly lean to the authority of the priest, there are others who reject the traditions of men, and claim the indisputable right of judging for themselves in matters that relate to the salvation of the soul, and the glory of God.
During the present month, besides supplying at Ballina on the Sabbath during Mr. Allen's absence, I have visited several places in the country, and hope to visit them as often as I possibly can. The preaching of the gospel, accompanied by the blessing of God, like the waters of a mighty river, bears down all before it; and Jehovah has promised that it shall rise and expand, like the waters of the deluge, until it cover the whole earth, and universally prevail. A few Roman Catholics have attended preaching since I came to reside in this village. May the Lord give me wisdom and understanding that I may be wise to win souls to Christ, and more grace that I may be more devoted to his service!
Your's &c.J. Bates.
To theRev.J. Bates.
Easky, Mar. 30, 1835.
Since my last letter I travelled through parts of the counties of Latrun and Sligo, earnestly endeavouring as usual, by reading, conversation, and expounding the Scriptures, to promote the design of our Institution among my friends and acquaintances.
Within one mile of Dromahare, I entered the house of an old woman of ninety-eight years, with whom I had often-times before conversed, on the doctrine of justification by faith; when she understood I had arrived, she sent for me, stretched out her hand, and said she was happy to see me before death would call her away. I told her I was sorry to see her so low, but as it was the will of the Lord, we ought to be resigned to his will. I asked her what her dependance was? Her reply was, In Jesus Christ alone, and that she had derived great comfort from reading some tracts I had left her, the last time I was with her; I said to her, "Have you never done any thing to please God?" "O no, Sir, I was too long of that opinion, and through hearing you, and reading the parts of the Scriptures you pointed out to me, I am persuaded that all the power and the glory is the Lord's." I was rejoiced to find so great a change in this poor woman, and endeavoured to point out to her the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world. I read several chapters of the word of God, and prayed with her. I conversed and read with many Protestants and Roman Catholics during my journey, as well as in the neighbourhood in which I live; many of them will pay great attention, while others think they are not safe to hear me read the Scriptures.
F. Irwin.
To theRev.W. Thomas.
Ballycar, April 13, 1835.
I forward you an account of my labours, during the past month. March 17th. In Crussagh, I read Matt. xxv. to four persons, pointing out to them, from the parable of the ten virgins, the absolute necessity of watchfulness, and of being prepared to meet our Lord when he doth come. March 22nd. In Newmarket, I read 2 Cor. v. to two persons, pointing out to them the full assurance which the apostle Paul had of the immediate happiness, in eternal felicity, after death, when he could say, "We knowthat, if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." One of these persons said he could not be convinced that any poor sinner could be good enough to enter heaven, or appear in the presence of God, without being cleansed from his sins in purgatory. As to goodness, our Lord declares, "after all we have done, we are unprofitable servants." And he says of the unprofitable servant, "Take and bind him, hand and foot, and cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness, where there shall be weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth." Again, we read in Eph. ii. 8. "By grace are ye saved, through faith, and that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast." Again in Titus iii. 5, "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost." After reading different passages of Scripture to these persons, proving that "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God eternal life through Jesus Christ," I endeavoured to convince them, from different passages of Scripture, that Christ, after having purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. March 28th. In Drumline, I read John v. endeavouring to impress on the minds of three persons the necessity of reading the Scriptures, and of obeying that direct command of our Lord's, who says, "Search the Scriptures." One of these persons replied, that the Scriptures ought to be read by every person, and he was convinced any person preventing others from reading them, had a great deal to answer for. April 2nd. I read to two persons Matt. vi. pointing out to them the crime of persons who repeat the Lord's prayer, who have the smallest enmity to others, showing them they were not calling upon God to forgive them, but they were calling upon him to condemn them, as long as such a spirit of hatred existed in their minds. These persons never seemed to have considered this before, and seemed much alarmed at the idea of it. April 5. In Quin, I read Luke xi. to five persons, pointing out to them the great inducement which our Lord gives to prayer, when he says, "If a son ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him!" April 10. In Granahan, I read Acts v. to four persons, pointing out to them the dreadful visitation of God's judgment on Ananias and Sapphira, in consequence of a lie, showing them from different portions of Scripture, that liars are set down with murderers.
Samuel Cross.
ToRev. J. Allen.
Ballina, April 18, 1835.
Dear Sir,
It is now about twelve months since I entered on the active duties of my station at Easky. On beholding opposition directed against the cause of Christ from various quarters, and conscious of my own weakness, I commenced my labours with a trembling heart. In humble dependence on Him who can do infinitely more than short-sighted mortals can comprehend, I entered the field, and, the Lord's name be praised, experienced that "the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong;" and though "there are many devices in man's heart, nevertheless, the counsel of the Lord shall stand." In the commencement, Roman Catholics and nominal Protestants were unwilling to come under the preaching of the gospel; but at present Roman Catholics, as well as Protestants, are regular in their attendance at preaching; and the spirit of inquiry, that prevails among both parties, exceeds any thing that I have hitherto witnessed. May not the friends of Christ hail with rapture the approach of that period, when their exertions on behalf of Ireland will be rewarded, and their hopes realized? Yes: there is at present much cause of thankfulness, that their labours have been already abundantly owned, and the word of the Lord is gone forth, and is daily prospering in the things whereunto it was sent.
During the spring, as the people can come a longer distance, the congregations, on the Sabbath-days, are larger than in winter, but on the week-days not so well attended in the villages, as the people are employed in the fields. However, I endeavour to meet them at their work, for the purpose of speaking to them about the salvation of their souls; and on these occasions I find the Irish language very useful, as the most inveterate opposers of religion, when addressed in their own tongue, are ready to hearken with attention. The conversations that occur from time to time are often very interesting.
M. Mullarky.
CONTRIBUTIONS.
Received by the Treasurer:—
Received by the Rev. J. Dyer:—
By the Secretary:—
Collected by the Rev. S. Davis,—
Subscriptions received by S. Marshall, Esq., 181, High Holborn; Mr. P. Millard, Bishopsgate Street; Messrs. Burls, 56, Lothbury; Rev. G. Pritchard, 4, York Place, Pentonville, gratuitous Secretary; by Messrs. Ladbrokes and Co., Bankers, Bank Buildings; by Mr. H. D. Dickie, 13, Bank Street, and Rev. Mr. Innes, Frederick Street, Edinburgh; and P. Brown, Esq., Cardigan.
LONDON: J. HADDON, PRINTER, CASTLE STREET, FINSBURY.
BAPTIST MISSION.
The Friends to this Mission are respectfully informed, that the following arrangements have been made for theAnnual Meetings of the Society:—
The Friends to this Mission are respectfully informed, that the following arrangements have been made for theAnnual Meetings of the Society:—
TUESDAY, JUNE 16.
Morning, xi.—The Committee of the Society will assemble at the Mission House, Fen Court, when the company of all ministers of the Denomination, who may be in town, is requested.
Morning, xi.—The Committee of the Society will assemble at the Mission House, Fen Court, when the company of all ministers of the Denomination, who may be in town, is requested.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17.
Morning, xi.—Sermon at the Poultry Chapel (Rev. J. Clayton's), by the Rev.Samuel Summers, of Bristol.Evening, vi.—Sermon at Surrey Chapel, Blackfriars Road, by the Rev.Benjamin Godwin, of Bradford, Yorkshire.
Morning, xi.—Sermon at the Poultry Chapel (Rev. J. Clayton's), by the Rev.Samuel Summers, of Bristol.
Evening, vi.—Sermon at Surrey Chapel, Blackfriars Road, by the Rev.Benjamin Godwin, of Bradford, Yorkshire.
THURSDAY, JUNE 18.
Morning, ix.—Meeting for prayer, at Eagle Street Meeting House. Some Minister from the country is expected to deliver an Address.xi.—Annual Meeting of the Society, at Finsbury Chapel,T. F. Buxton, Esq., M.P., in the Chair.
Morning, ix.—Meeting for prayer, at Eagle Street Meeting House. Some Minister from the country is expected to deliver an Address.
xi.—Annual Meeting of the Society, at Finsbury Chapel,T. F. Buxton, Esq., M.P., in the Chair.
FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE.
COLOMBO.
We have much pleasure in communicating the following intelligence from this important station. The baptism of twenty-four native converts in less than a year, and the formation of another church composed of those who were lately heathens, are circumstances of great interest, and must be very encouraging to our worthy brother, who has been labouring so diligently among them.
At nearly the conclusion of another year, I am reminded of my obligations to write to you. On surveying the events which have occurred in it, we have reason to sing both of mercy and judgment to our heavenly Father. While much affliction has reigned around us, I have to bless God for the continuation of my own life and health to labour for Him. Each of the members of my own family have had to endure a large degree of sickness and debility; yet it has not come near to myself, except as the enervating nature of a tropical clime has produced a considerable degree of lassitude, connected with the labours of a Missionary life. Nor do I recollect that, during the year I have been obliged to suspend any public exercise through personal indisposition. This continuance of health has been rendered more valuable in consequence of the repeated illness of my colleague, brother Siers, who has been many times laid aside from his work, so that I have been obliged in many instances, as far as I could consistently with my stated engagements, to take what devolves on him. As he is chiefly occupied in labouring among the Portuguese, I have been under the necessity of cultivating an acquaintance with their language, and have now acquired a sufficiency of it to preach in it the glorious Gospel of the blessed God.In the commencement of the year, things wore a distressing appearance, and we went forward with our work under many discouragements. But in the progress of the year I do not know of any part of the time since I have been here, in which a greater degree of the Divine blessing appears to have rested on my labours, as far as the native population is concerned. Twenty-three Singalese, and one Tamil man, after subjecting them to a considerable trial, and private as well as public instruction, have been baptized and added to the church, and they appear to continue to walk according to the vows they have made. Sixteen of these live contiguous to the village called Byamvillee, which I either supply myself or some of our friends, every Sabbath-day; so that we have now a little church in that village of twenty-eight members, to whom the word of God is regularly preached, and the ordinances of His house duly administered. By the aid, too, of some of the members of our Singalese church, we have been enabled, on a Sabbath-day, to carry on a village itinerancy to a greater extent than before. So that, in addition to the Singalese, Portuguese, and English services, which are conducted in our regular places of worship in the Grand Pass, Pettah, in the Fort, and Hanwella, we have seven places around Colombo, or in the environs of it, where there is Singalese preaching, either every Sabbath or every other Sabbath-day. These are independent of many places to which, on week days, we go to make known the name of the Saviour.In consequence of the recent removals of the 61st and 97th regiments from Colombo to other parts of the island, our English church has been almost entirely scattered; but a small number are now again collected, who have been regularly organized into a Christian society. Our schools, which at the commencement of the year were much diminished by the alarming prevalence of the small-pox, have again recovered to in general their former size; especially the female school in our own yard, conducted by my own family, which now numbers more than fifty scholars, who have made very rapid progress in reading and in needlework. I fear unless we can obtain further assistance in this school, it must for a time be renounced, as my eldest daughter appears, by a continued pain in her side, to labour under a liver complaint, which renders a relaxation of her labours indispensably necessary, even if a removal to a colder clime be not requisite to save her life. Our schools, with the exception of one, which, on account of local circumstances, has for a time been lately discontinued, are the same in number as at the conclusion of the last year—and the number of attendants nearly the same.The inhabitants of this part of the island have been much afflicted lately by a dreadful flood, which no one living ever recollects to have been equalled. It came on suddenly and unexpectedly, at mid-night, like the judgment day. By it multitudes were roused from their slumbers, and obliged to fly for their lives. Many were killed by it; the houses of others destroyed—and being near the approach of harvest, the injury done to the rice and other crops is incalculable. Many of our members have suffered severely from it, in the loss of their little property, in the destruction of their houses, and in the bodily privations they have endured. I went on Wednesday last to preach at a village where one of our members lives, and the account he gave me of the perilous condition in which he and his family were, was most heart-rending. The water rose as high as the shoulders of a tall man in his house. His dwelling was washed away. He and his son were obliged to ascend to the outside of the roof of a bungalow, where they remained two days withoutfood; if they called no one could hear them, they could get near no one, nor any one near to them. There, amidst the pelting of the rain—the howling of the wind—the creaking of the trees—and the fear of the place on which they were sitting falling, they were obliged to continue. The government, with the most commendable diligence, sent boats laden with rice and dried fish, as far as they were able; and a subscription has been opened to afford relief to the sufferers, which has been liberally supported. I engaged persons, whom I supplied with money, to go among the most needy in and near to Colombo, and give them food to prevent their dying with hunger. Our meeting-house at Hanwella has been entirely destroyed by the inundation; and, in the present state of things there, I do not think it expedient to build it again. A small bungalow will be erected for the accommodation of those who wish to hear the word of God; and I hope to obtain a sufficient quantity of timber from the wreck to erect a little place of worship at Byamvillee, if I can obtain sufficient subscriptions for it.I have now my hands completely full in preparing an answer to a Catholic priest's reply to a tract I published on saint and image worship. I believe I mentioned the original tract, entitled, "St. Antonio," in my last, which has excited no small stir among the papists in this place. An abusive and crafty reply has been circulated by them, to which the Tract Society here has deemed a rejoinder requisite. As I was the person who began the assault, the burden of preparing it has fallen on me. The drift of the answer will be to disprove the authority of tradition—to destroy the claims of the Roman Catholic church—and show the vanity of the arguments by which they endeavour to support their soul-destroying idolatry. It will occupy, as far as I can judge, about 250 pages, and is now nearly ready for press. Indeed the first sheet is gone to it; but as the Wesleyan press works very slowly, and they have two or three other works in hand, it may be some time before it makes its appearance. O that it may be the means of leading some of the multitudes of the deluded people by whom we are surrounded, to consult the Bible for themselves!
At nearly the conclusion of another year, I am reminded of my obligations to write to you. On surveying the events which have occurred in it, we have reason to sing both of mercy and judgment to our heavenly Father. While much affliction has reigned around us, I have to bless God for the continuation of my own life and health to labour for Him. Each of the members of my own family have had to endure a large degree of sickness and debility; yet it has not come near to myself, except as the enervating nature of a tropical clime has produced a considerable degree of lassitude, connected with the labours of a Missionary life. Nor do I recollect that, during the year I have been obliged to suspend any public exercise through personal indisposition. This continuance of health has been rendered more valuable in consequence of the repeated illness of my colleague, brother Siers, who has been many times laid aside from his work, so that I have been obliged in many instances, as far as I could consistently with my stated engagements, to take what devolves on him. As he is chiefly occupied in labouring among the Portuguese, I have been under the necessity of cultivating an acquaintance with their language, and have now acquired a sufficiency of it to preach in it the glorious Gospel of the blessed God.
In the commencement of the year, things wore a distressing appearance, and we went forward with our work under many discouragements. But in the progress of the year I do not know of any part of the time since I have been here, in which a greater degree of the Divine blessing appears to have rested on my labours, as far as the native population is concerned. Twenty-three Singalese, and one Tamil man, after subjecting them to a considerable trial, and private as well as public instruction, have been baptized and added to the church, and they appear to continue to walk according to the vows they have made. Sixteen of these live contiguous to the village called Byamvillee, which I either supply myself or some of our friends, every Sabbath-day; so that we have now a little church in that village of twenty-eight members, to whom the word of God is regularly preached, and the ordinances of His house duly administered. By the aid, too, of some of the members of our Singalese church, we have been enabled, on a Sabbath-day, to carry on a village itinerancy to a greater extent than before. So that, in addition to the Singalese, Portuguese, and English services, which are conducted in our regular places of worship in the Grand Pass, Pettah, in the Fort, and Hanwella, we have seven places around Colombo, or in the environs of it, where there is Singalese preaching, either every Sabbath or every other Sabbath-day. These are independent of many places to which, on week days, we go to make known the name of the Saviour.
In consequence of the recent removals of the 61st and 97th regiments from Colombo to other parts of the island, our English church has been almost entirely scattered; but a small number are now again collected, who have been regularly organized into a Christian society. Our schools, which at the commencement of the year were much diminished by the alarming prevalence of the small-pox, have again recovered to in general their former size; especially the female school in our own yard, conducted by my own family, which now numbers more than fifty scholars, who have made very rapid progress in reading and in needlework. I fear unless we can obtain further assistance in this school, it must for a time be renounced, as my eldest daughter appears, by a continued pain in her side, to labour under a liver complaint, which renders a relaxation of her labours indispensably necessary, even if a removal to a colder clime be not requisite to save her life. Our schools, with the exception of one, which, on account of local circumstances, has for a time been lately discontinued, are the same in number as at the conclusion of the last year—and the number of attendants nearly the same.
The inhabitants of this part of the island have been much afflicted lately by a dreadful flood, which no one living ever recollects to have been equalled. It came on suddenly and unexpectedly, at mid-night, like the judgment day. By it multitudes were roused from their slumbers, and obliged to fly for their lives. Many were killed by it; the houses of others destroyed—and being near the approach of harvest, the injury done to the rice and other crops is incalculable. Many of our members have suffered severely from it, in the loss of their little property, in the destruction of their houses, and in the bodily privations they have endured. I went on Wednesday last to preach at a village where one of our members lives, and the account he gave me of the perilous condition in which he and his family were, was most heart-rending. The water rose as high as the shoulders of a tall man in his house. His dwelling was washed away. He and his son were obliged to ascend to the outside of the roof of a bungalow, where they remained two days withoutfood; if they called no one could hear them, they could get near no one, nor any one near to them. There, amidst the pelting of the rain—the howling of the wind—the creaking of the trees—and the fear of the place on which they were sitting falling, they were obliged to continue. The government, with the most commendable diligence, sent boats laden with rice and dried fish, as far as they were able; and a subscription has been opened to afford relief to the sufferers, which has been liberally supported. I engaged persons, whom I supplied with money, to go among the most needy in and near to Colombo, and give them food to prevent their dying with hunger. Our meeting-house at Hanwella has been entirely destroyed by the inundation; and, in the present state of things there, I do not think it expedient to build it again. A small bungalow will be erected for the accommodation of those who wish to hear the word of God; and I hope to obtain a sufficient quantity of timber from the wreck to erect a little place of worship at Byamvillee, if I can obtain sufficient subscriptions for it.
I have now my hands completely full in preparing an answer to a Catholic priest's reply to a tract I published on saint and image worship. I believe I mentioned the original tract, entitled, "St. Antonio," in my last, which has excited no small stir among the papists in this place. An abusive and crafty reply has been circulated by them, to which the Tract Society here has deemed a rejoinder requisite. As I was the person who began the assault, the burden of preparing it has fallen on me. The drift of the answer will be to disprove the authority of tradition—to destroy the claims of the Roman Catholic church—and show the vanity of the arguments by which they endeavour to support their soul-destroying idolatry. It will occupy, as far as I can judge, about 250 pages, and is now nearly ready for press. Indeed the first sheet is gone to it; but as the Wesleyan press works very slowly, and they have two or three other works in hand, it may be some time before it makes its appearance. O that it may be the means of leading some of the multitudes of the deluded people by whom we are surrounded, to consult the Bible for themselves!
SEEBPORE.
We are thankful to report that our friends Mr. and Mrs. Penney, and their companions, arrived in safety at Calcutta, about the end of September. Two months afterwards, as our readers will perceive by the following letter, Mr. and Mrs. George Pearce rejoined their missionary associates, with health mercifully recruited by their voyage.