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42 index and fSnpttat. J. J. TOON, .... Proprietor. PUBLICATION ROOMS —4 l S SOUTH BROADWAY. Editor: Bov. D. SHAVER, D.D. CORRESPONDING EDITORS : Rev. J. J. D. RENFROE, Talladega, Ala. Ret. 8. HENDERSON, D.D., Fayetteville, Ala. THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 1871. Retributive Providences. “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Yes: do not deceive yourself. Your punishment is as certain as your sin. “ The rod ” will have “ blos somed ” by the time “ pride hath budded.” As the “ blossom ” is in advance of the “ bud,” so the implements of punishment are in advance of the sin that provokes it. Retributive providences have been so uniform in all ages, that it has grown into a proverb, that 41 the penalty of a misdeed always treads upon the heels of the transgressor.” No matter how numerous and various the subterfuges of guilt, sooner or later it will be overtaken and adequate ly punished. Achan was but one of many thou sands, and he took the precaution to hide his stolen treasure beneath his tent, no doubt sup posing that, atnid so vast a multitude, his theft would not be discovered. But all his subterfuges failed, the “ wedge of gold ” was found, and he was brought to merited punishment. No scheme was ever concocted to hide iniquity with more sagacity, than David’s attempt to hide his crime with respect to Bathsheba. Yet in the provi dence of God, the whole was brought to light, and the finger of the prophet pointed with uner ring certainty to the guilty culprit, and thun dered in his ear, ‘‘Thou art the man!” It is the fatal heritage of guilt to leave its mark some where upon some object so unmistakably as that the hand of justice can exact the penalty with reasonable certainty. In vain may “ that man Coniah” seek to destroy the memorials of his crime. And if sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily—if perchance an occasional culprit escapes through this life—a more fearful retribution awaits him in the world to come. 11 is indemnity here but increases the awfulness of that penalty which he must suffer when “ the earth shall disclose her blood,” and when “ God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or evil.” Every attribute of Jehovah stands, of necessity, pledged to visit “ indignation and wrath upon every soul of man that doeth evil.” It is only in the pen ally of law that we ascertain in what estimation it is held by the Lawgiver. It is as necessary, therefore, to punish sin, as it is to reward right eousness. According to those eternal principles of “justice and judgment," which are “the habitation, or basis, of His throne,” God is (we speak it reverently) as much morally bound to provide a prison house, a hell, for his enemies, as a mansion house, a heaven, for His friends. “Be sure your sin,will find you out.” H. Glimpses of the Times. Separation under the Name of Union. —No person of common sense can fail to see, that the proposition for “the union of liberal Baptists,” (as loose communionists affect to style them selves,) is, practically, a proposition for separa tion from strict communionists. Os course, to those who urge it, strict communionists are, in some sort, odious; and their prospect of success depends largely on the degree to which they can inspire others with that feeling. Is not this the philosophy of the fact that Rev. J. Ilyatt Smith, in “ the Open Door,” ‘makes war upon his breth ren,’ (as the American Baptist expresses it,) ‘and holds up the denomination to ridicule and contempt! 1 ’ Is not this the explanation of such language as the following, which we quote from a correspondent of the Baptist Unions: “When the whole land was tilled with the stench of a public trial of a Baptist minister, for a gross of fence, nothing was published of the whole affair in any denominational paper as bad as has been concerning Mr. Smith, Mr. Sawtelle, and Mr. Malcom. And so I make for myself this applica tion : Get drunk, steal, commit adultery and be forgiven: Advocate open communion, and there is no forgiveness 1” We are sorry that these ag itators should hate us so bitterly on account of our Scriptural practice; but we thank them for making so full the proof that one impulse to their movement, and not the least, is rather this hatred of ourselves, than the “ love ” and “ charity ” which they profess toward others. The Theatre.— A secular paper, in Pittsburg, Penn., notes among “signs of progress,” the “encouraging" fact, that ‘the Presbyterians and Methodists of the city have wonderfully improved, within the last ten years, as frequenters of the theatre.’ This is a sorry compliment for church members to receive; but it comes from a very proper source. In the same issue, that paper represents the command for the hallowing of the Sabbath, as requiring ‘a cessation from physical labor only, applicable, in equal terms, exactly, to men and cattle—to cattle as much, no more and no less than to men,’ and declares, of Paul, that ‘his style is the worst thoughts the most disjointed that have come down to us from his times!’ It is precisely men holding such views as these that may consistently chant the praises of the modern drama, with (what John Foster styles) “ its many modes of heathenism.” Prayer in Concert. —“The hour of nine on Saturday evening has long been set apart by many Christians, as a season of special and concerted prayer for a blessing upon the preaching of the Sabbath following.” We unite with the Congre gationtilist in placing this fact before the godly public: and with the Standard in saying: “The wider this concert of secret prayer, the fuller and more abundant results may be expected to follow the administration of the word.” Will not many of our readers take part in it ? Dear brethren and sisters, let not the proclamation of divine truth fail of its effect around you and in you, for want of regular, united, importunate, bolieving suppli cation on your part. “ Shooting a Longbow.”— A Kentucky lay man, writing in the Richmond Religious Herald , says: “ Avery large proportion of the rank and file of the Baptists in this country—perhaps a majority—do not give their assent to close com munion.” This is so greatly wide of the truth, as scarcely to need contradiction among Baptists. But we wonder that our brethren of the Herald suffered it to pass without correction, to prevent the erroneous conclusions which Pedobaplists might draw from it, to the damage of the denomi nation. Religious Papers. —The Methodist , of New York, on the close of its eleventh volume in July next, will be enlarged beyond the size of any ex. isting journal within its denomination. It is an independent paper —one not published under the control of the General Conference, as an official organ ; and the editor, Rev. George Crooks, has secured for it, “ not merely a local, or de nominational, but a national, and, to some extent, a foreign circulation.” Rev. Abel Stevens, LL.D., is now associated with him, and will add to its popularity and ability. To appreciate the im portance and power of the religious press, is no mean token of wisdom. None of the denomina tions can afford to dispense with this efficient THE CHRISTIAN INDEX AND SODTH-WESTERN BAPTIST: ATLANTA, GA., THURSDAY, MARCH 16,1871, agency —and none of them feel that they can. And yet, none of them make the most of it. All are guilty of neglect in this regard ; and Baptists —Southern Baptists—especially so. May we hope for an improvement which will enable the Index and Baptist to vie with the Methodist in material prosperity and growth, in circulation and usefulness ? Why not ? Infant Baptism. —A Presbyterian exchange quotes from “Home” by W. K. Tweedie, D.D., on this subject: “ A little one thus dedicated to God is weakness placed under the guardianship of Omnipotence. Parents may then use means and firmly hope in God.” May they not “ use means” before and without this ? May they not “hope in God” as “firmly ?” To say that they may not, is to claim for the baptism of the infant an efficacy towaH salvation which transfuses itself through all subsequent means for that end; and this is but another form of the “ baptismal grace,”on which sacramentalists build their per version of the gospel. The Old School Presbyte rian, St. Louis, says: “It is unspeakable com fort to us to believe that our dear children are included in the covenant of grace. We dedicated them to God, and applied to them the token of that covenant, and we confidently look for the fulfillment of His promise to be their God as well as ours.” Now, if this “confidence” is ground ed, either in whole or in part, upon the baptism of the children, then, an act which, so far as regards the children, is a mere “ opus operatum ,” being mixed with no faith, or even knowledge, of theirs, has power nevertheless to open for them a more certain path to the kingdom of glory;—and this simply modifies, this by no means repudiates, that alledge connection of the ordinance with re generation and remission which constitutes the fundamental error of Sacrainentalism. “It used to be said ihat wherever there were two Germans there were at least three different opinions;” and, on the question as to the efficacy of “ infant sprinkling,” this seems eminently true of Pedo baptists. And yet, when we bolt the matter to bran, the three opinions (or the thirty) resolve themselves substantially into one—as the Chi cago Standard strongly says: “The truth is, that clinging to the pernicious practice of infant ‘baptism’ which Rome introduced, the Presbyte rian body, and every other which retains that practice, retains with it ‘ the sacrainentalism of Rome.’ How can they help it ? Baptism is, as they truly say, ‘a sign of regeneration.’ What does it mean, then, when applied to infants ? It means, of course, regeneration in connection with them, in some way. But how ? Rome has one way of answering; the Church of England and American Episcopacy another; the Presbyterians, Congregationalists and Methodists another. All alike, however, hold to the connection of ‘ the grace’ with this rite. What does it matter i whether ‘ tied to it ’or not ? What, we beg to ask, has baptism to do with that grace at all, except as a sign of such grace already received ? Where is the Scripture authority for receiving it as a sign of such grace to be given in future, whether to those now adults, of those now in fants? Unhappily, the dogmatic error is inbred in this rite; whosoever retains the one cannot truthfully say that he does not hold to the other.” The Educational Convention, Appointed at Marion, on the 12th of April next, it is hoped, will be largely attended. Will not our brethren, ministers and laymen, make a a little sacrifice, and let us have a good, old fashioned, rousing meeting? Let us meet and take counsel together. The crisis demands every man to do his whole duty. We cannot affnfd to fail in the present effort. Able men—men com petent to discuss the question in all its aspects and bearings, are expected to be present. If we fail at this juncture to meet our obligations in this respect, our youngest members will not live long enough to measure the disaster to all the interests of our Zion. Let us, therefore, meet, and devise liberal things, and execute them with a will. Can we associate our counsel and means in any enterprise involving more vitally the in terests and prosperity of the great cause, than in the endowment of our noble, time-honored insti tution of learning? Then let us rally to it with that noble enthusiasm that is the precursor of success. 11. Talladega (Creek) Baptist Church. This church has wisely resolved to change its location from the present site to Alpine, on the S., R. and D. Railroad, ten miles south-west of Talladega Court House, and build anew and commodious meeting house. A sufficient sum has already been secured to authorize the Com mittee to make a contract for the work. The change in the location, it is thought, will prove to be a judicious one. By the latter part of sum mer, we hope to be in our new house, and then our ministering brethren will find it quite easy to stop over in travelling to and fro on the railroad, and preach for us. The church and community have manifested a commendable spirit in the lib eral subscriptions made to this enterprise. Our lamented brother, Walker Reynold*, among the last acts of his life, gave one thousand dollars to the work. “The memory of the just is blest.” H. Rehoboth ludiau Mission. We have four preaching places for Indians and one for the blacks in the Seminole na tion, to-wit: at O-e-ki wo Tu 10-fah, (Spring City,) Mik-ko-suk-keTown,Cho ko-nik-la, and Pond Creek. There are four ordained native preachers, viz : John Jumper, the Chief, Jas. Factor, Ah-sun-E-mah-kla, and Win. Eufalo. The churches all have deacons, and assemble for worship every Sabbath day. The O-e ki wa church is the oldest. It was constituted in January 1860, of seven members, by J. S. Murrow and John Bemo, Presbytery, in a negro cabin, four of the seven members be ing negroes, it increased rapidly, both by letter and experience, in September of that year John Jumper, who had for several years been a Presbyterian, was baptized into its fellowship, and became an active and useful member. For more than three years—from ’62 to ’66—-it enjoyed an almost uninterrupt ed revival. The war was sorely felt; the whole nation were refugees for about three years; the men were all in the army and away from the refugee camps. There was no special effort made by the members, and yet the Spirit wa3 constantly operating upon the hearts ot the people. The Christian re ligion was the chief subject of conversation among all classes. Even the exciting war topics were considered secondary. When the war closed the writer, who had been min istering to this church from its constitution, very injudiciously removed to Texas. Before he left, however, in July 1865, John Jumper and Jas. Factor were ordained to the full vork of the ministry; H. F. Buckner and J. S. Murrow, Presbytery. These brethren returned with their people to their own country, and served the church as pastors. For a season many continued to be added by baptism. But although during its sojourn in the wilderness all of its members, except three, remained faithful to their profession, now, when peace and prosperity were re stored, some have “ fallen away,” being se duced, only for a season, we trust, by the devil. It now numbers about 150 members. The Mik ko suk-ke church is a colony of O-e ki wa, (the mother church.) It was con stituted by Elders John Jumper and James Factor in 1866, and has been ministered to by both these brethren. O-sun na, a deacon of its membership, and also, like Phillip, a preacher too, and a useful man, died trium phantly, praising God. Ah-sun-E mah-kia, another licentiate, was ordaiued by Jumper and Factor, and though in feeble health, is preaching all he can. This church numbers about sixty members. Old Bro. Pa-suk ky, the last of a once flourishing Presbyterian church among the Seminoies, baptized into our membership, belongs to this church, and is a host within himself. The members calling themselves the Cho ko-nik-la church have not been constituted into a church as yet. They, however, receive members by experience and baptism, and Bro. Wm. Eufalo preaches for them regu larly. Their number is 28. This little band is gathered partly from those Seminoies who went North daring the war ; and as that party were almost wholly under Presbyterian influence, it is evident that nothing but a firm conviction that Baptists have the truth in their peculiarities, causes them to become Baptists. J. S. Morrow. The Lauderdale Orphans. I write, reclining on one elbow, from a sick bed, for reasons it is of no moment to ex plain. The concert of the orphans of the Home, Lauderdale Springs, Miss., in this city, Monday night last, was entertaining and touching. The singing by these poor little children was quite equal to that of pupils of a similar age at the Commencements of our Female Colleges. The contrast, however, of these with more favored ones, in dress and physique, due to poverty and less auspicious parental training, made me hardly an impar tial judge. Judging from my own feelings, I think the moral impression was greatly good. When Rev. Jos. E. Carter was done with his brief address, at the close of the exercises, I was almost transported out of myself and unmanned. The children are attended by Rev. A. D. Trimble and Mr. Carter above named, Christian gentlemen, unusually even, entitled to the last degree of consideration and trust. God bless them and the orphans ! E. B. Teague. Selma, Feb. 9, 1871. Notes of Travel. My late article left me in the Gate City, (but I did not see the gate,) and I now pro pose to make further progress. Well, I start ted on a run, from the Kimball House, to overtake the train, which, from some unex plained cause, got the start of me, (I always carry fast time,) but as it turned out, I proved too swift for the iron horse, and while it halted at the freight depot, I boarded the cars and took my seat by one of Atlanta’s most estimable merchants, the fine-looking Col. M. Very soon the whistle sounded, the engine puffed, the wheels clattered, and we were off for Macon, the place where Mercer Univer sity is soon to find a home, and a right good one at that. On board this train 1 met the President of the Maoon and Western Rail road, Capt. A. J, W hite, who fully under stands how to make a compliment doubly acceptable by the affable manner in which it is presented. He cordially gave the Agent of Mercer University a complimentary ticket, for the year 1871, and in this respect takes a jplace alongside of Col. L. P. Grant, the gentlemanly Superintendent of the Atlanta and West Point Railroad, to whom the wri ter is under obligation fur a similar favor. We reached Macon about 11 o’clock at night, and found hospitable entertainment at that excellent hotel, the Brown House. Next day I paid my respects to brother E. W. Warren, who has, for more than eleven years, exercised the functions of Bishop of the First Baptist church, and upon which he has made impressions for good that will be lasting as the ever-circling ages. He received the Agent of M. U. in the most agreeable manner, and gave him a home at the Bishop’s residence, while remaining in the city. In the society of this Christian family, the trav eller soon forgot his toils, and might have become oblivious of his wanderings, but for the tender recollections which came crowd ing upon him from home. No sooner was the lamp extinguished, than there appeared the figure of a lady standing out of the dark ness, surrounded by a group of three little ones, (all beautiful, of course, the lady inclu ded,) and every one saying, as plainly as it could be done when nothing teas spoken, “llow long before thou wilt come home? Please don’t stay long, for we miss thee sad ly,—we do wish to see thee so much.” Well, that group did not make me drowsy, and so I lay awake and thought, and thought, and thought; and if any one should be curious to know what I thought, I am very much dis posed to gratify him. One thing the writer remembers, was about this; If I did not love the cause of my dear Saviour, could 1 leave the loved ones at home, and become a weary wanderer over this troubled world? And if our brethren could know all I feel, would they not love Mercer University, and pray more frequently for all connected with it? Would they not make haste to raise a complete endowment, and then say, ‘brother 11., return to thy loved ones at home, and the Lord be with thee?” If they knew all my thoqghts, could they find it in their hearts to treat me coldly for fear that they would be called upon to give a few hundred dollars to the best of causes? Nothing of the kind would they do, but as soon as they hear that tin Agent has come to town, they would be on the lookout for him. and say, “ Come in, brother H., don’t pass me by, please don’t; for lam so glad to see that some one is looking after the interests of our loved University. Here, my brother, is a small contribution ; I am only sorry that 1 am not able to make it five thousand in stead of five hundred dollars; but take this now, and I will do more as the Lord pros pers me.” This I thought, and something more, as I lay gazing upon the shadowy group which stood so lovingly by my side, and then saying, “God protect and bless you, loved ones,” your correspondent soon passed into that semi-unconscious state which we call sleep, and bade the world, for awhile, farewell, and so 1 now say to you and my readers. H. C. H. Leaves from an Agent’s Memorandum Book. Arrived at Galveston, on the Josephine, one of Morgan’s steamers. The city has quite a commercial look. New buildings, and many of them fine ones. Residences nearly all framed buildings. Streets very wide. The city is built on a flat, sandy is land, about thirty miles long and seven wide. Very few trees. Here and there, orange or lemon. Population about 25,000,. having doubled itself in the last ten years. A great many Germans. The Catholics have a fine cathedral; so have the Episcopalians. The Baptist church is a rather small, framed build ing, with anew and commodious parsonage attached. Elder Win. Howard is pastor, and is supported by his church, with an in teresting Sunday school and a large and growing congregation. A working pastor and a working church. Delighted to meet again this faithful man of God, under whose preaching I had profited in my boyhood, in Sumter county, Ala. Everybody going on Sabbath, at eleven, to witness the dedication of the splendid, new St. John’s Methodist church, by Bishop Mar vin. (On the way to church: “ Brother Howard, how much did this building cost?” “About seventy thousand dollars.” “Is it all paid ?” “All but fifteen thousand dollars ?” “ Don’t you think they will try to raise that sum to-day?” “Oh, no; they wouldn’t treat us in that way. We and our congre gations have been specially invited to attend the.dedication at this hour, and it would be inopportune to stop to raise money.” “Well.”) We enter. A splendid building it is. No perceptible defect, except the glaring, yellow stained glass of the windows. A number of preachers on the pulpit platform—one a Bap tist, invited up there to read a portion of Scripture. He is not a landmarker. No other ceremonies had been announced or were anticipated by that preacher when the Bishop pointed out the Scripture for him td read. The choir sung a voluntary. The pastor in charge rose and announced that the ordin ance of baptism would now be administered. Like Wharton’s Indian, I looked for the baptistery. I saw a bowl of water on the table. “ How is he going to dip a believer into that basin?” The candidate rises in front of the altar. A nice lady, with a babe in her arms. The preacher said, “ Suffer little children to come unto me,” etc. “ What has that got to do with baptism?” I ask my self. Then he said, “I baptize thee,” etc., and put a little water on the baby’s head. He didn’t cry, but they took him out. He is a member of the church, but I suppose they gave him a furlough for ten years. Then he will be old enough to understand preach ing, and all that. But where is my Baptist preacher? He’s up there. He didn’t know it. He’s caught. The dedication services then begin, and that Baptist preacher reads the chapter. The Bishop then preached metaphysics an hour and a half, and the gos pel a quarter. 1 timed him. He began at the bottom of thought. 1 knew it would take a long time to get to the top. On the whole, a masterly, scholarly effort; sound logic, deep metaphysics, and edifying to those that understood him. They may keep up with him over here in Texas, but we Geor gians couldn’t. Then came the dedication. No, it didn’t come. Something else, Ttfe Bishop said, had to come first. That money. It came slow ly. The congregation got tired. Waited about three quarters of an hour. They had then raised about ten thousand. That Bap tist preacher up there got tired then. I thought he looked tired when he saw that baby affair. He came down, and we and nearly everybody else went home. They tried it over again at night. Preached, raised all the money, and then dedicated. That preacher and 1 did not go at night. He is more of a landmarker now. That was a Texas dedication. 1 love to see buildings dedicated to God, even when the worshippers walk not with me. We will all come to the unity of the faith after awhile, perhaps. That building was built to stand a long time. Then I see a gross defect in its construction. It has neither a baptistery, nor confessionals, nor chapels. It is suited neither for a Bap tist church, nor a Catholic cathedral. It will be one or the other, some of these days. It can’t stand betwixt and between. Jnq. L. Underwood. Galveston, Texas, Feb., 1871. Fellowship Church, Ala. I am a naemberof Fellowship church, near the line of Chambers and Randolph counties. Brother John Curnbie is our pastor. Out church is tolerably large for the country. We number about two hundred and over; were constituted some fifteen or twenty years ago, with the pastoral care of brother James Sperlin. Brother Cumbie has been the prin cipal pastor since the removal of brother Sperlin to Georgia. We think brother C. an excellant preacher, and a good man. His labors in past years have been abundantly blessed. But there now seems to be a cold indifference—no Sabbath school, no continued prayer meeting. The church appears to be in a dull stupor. We {>ay, O Lord, revive Thy work in the midst these years. We ask an interest in the jjpayers of the Index and its readers. 7 Wm, McCarter. Rock Mills, Ala., Feb. 27, . Mission to thp Freedfnen, The special Executive Committee of the Bethel Baptist Association, charged with the mission of sending the gospel to the destitute among the colored population, met this eve ning for the purpose of organizing. Present, Judge D. A. Vason, Chairman, R. J. Bacon, and Elder N. A. Bailey. Elder Bailey was requested to act as Secretary of the meeting. Elders W. N. Chaudoin and J. 11. Ingraham, and Deacon R. I). Mallary being present, were invited to aid us with their counsel. Elder Chaudoin opened the meeting by prayer. Elder J. IT. Ingraham and R. D. Mallary were elected permanent members of :he Committee. Elder C. M. Irwin was ap pointed General Agent to canvass the field and report destitution, aid colored pastors where it was desired, report suitable mis sionaries to supply the destitution, and solicit contributions for carrying on the work. The following resolutions were adopted : 1. That Elder C. M. Irwin is most cordially commended to the confidence and fellowship of the brethren, both white and colored, and to the people generally, as well-as the mis sion he represents. 2. That Elder W. N. Chaudoin is requested to render all the as sistance in his power to this mission, while travelling among the churches as Agent of the Domestic Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. 3. That local Boards, auxiliary to this, will be appointed in different sections of the Association, when desired. 4. That these proceedings be published in the Albany Neios and Christian Index. N. A. Bailey, Sec. Albany, Ga., Feb. 27, 1871. Our Cause at Jefferson, Ga. Our brethren, at the settlement of this country, failed to occupy this town—a blun der so often committed in those days, and one from whose evil effects many of our vil lage churches will not recover for a long time. The natural result was, the Methodists and Presbyterians came in and occupied the place. The Baptist church here was constituted June 20th, 1866, with 19 members. They were without a house to worship in, and, be ing mostly very poor, had but a gloomy pros pect to secure one. The Presbyterians had built a very good house, but had not paid for it. Soon after the constitution of our church, they proposed to sell to the Baptists one-half interest in their church property at one thou sand dollars. This proposition the Baptists accepted, and paid half the sum, most of which was collected abroad. After this they borrowed money on individual credit, and paid the remainder and secured titles to the property. These individuals now owe, in- cluding interest, about five hundred dollars, and would be glad to receive contributions to meet the liability. Who will turn their backs upon us?—l mean “greenbacks.” From the time of its constitution our church has grad ually gained strength, and now numbers 31 members. Nearly half this number, during the last four years, have been dismissed by letter. We are now expecting some valuable accessions, and our prospect is flattering. I am making an effort to send monthly contri butions to Foreign Missions. Hope, ere long, to see a large proportion of our people inter ested in this great work. This town, according to the late census, con tains about 500 inhabitants. The Presbyterians have lost their pastor on account of, I under stand,non support; consequently,they have no good prospect of filling his place. The Meth odist is the prevailing denomination. We have here a flourishing Institute, (undenomi national in character,) with an endowment of fifteen thousand dollars of Ga. R. R. stock, the dividends of which are applied to the re duction of the tuition of all that attend. This Institution, with this and other advantages, gives vigor and permanence to our educa tional interests. There are no less than nine Baptist churches in this (Jackson) county, some of them numbering nearly two hundred members ; and, altogether, perhaps outnum- ber all other denominations combined.. But it is believed that there is more inefficiency in these churches, according to their ability, than in any county in the State South of this. These churches possess a fair share of the wealth of the county, and yet not one of them maintains preaching more than once a month. And perhaps there is not a pastor in the State, North of Athens, who receives from all his churches a sum sufficient, in a year, to meet half his expenses for the same time. Our pastors spend much of their time in their fields, workshops, store-houses, etc. What is the cause of all this derangement and inef ficiency among our churches and our preach ers? 1 pause for a reply. Our churches do not generally need more members, but they need a mind to work for the cause of Christ. With few exceptions, the churches in this section known to me, make annual pastoral calls; consequently, there is but little sta bility in the pastoral relation. The more I see of the practical working of the annual call system, the more 1 am impressed with its evil tendencies. But a good brother says, to make an indefinite call, is to surrender pre cious and important rights. There is, just now, quite a sensation among some of our churches on the subject of “ salaried pastors.” Some of our pastors have refused to serve churches unless they would state what they would give them. Other preachers seem to think they can do more good by saying no thing about their salaries, leaving that matter wholly unsettled at the time of their accept ance of the call. I believe a discussion of this subject now would do good. I hope, ere long, that you, or some of your old correspondents, will give us the scriptural plan of sustaining him who labors in word and doctrine. Let us soon hear from you. There are some encouraging things to be said of this section. We are confidently ex pecting the projected North East Rail Road to pass through our town. Subscriptions are now being taken for this purpose, and we are told the work will be begun this spring. Some of our churches have begun to improve upon their former course. This we hope, after a while, will become general. A. J. Kelly. Ministers’, Deacons’ and Sabbath School Meeting of the Bethel Association. This body assembled with Pine Blufi'church, Dougherty county, Ga., Jan. 28th, 1871. Elder W. 11. Cooper was called to the Chair, and TANARUS, H. Stout requested to act as Secreta ry. The attendance was small. Many brethren, who had been appointed to prepare essays for the meeting, did not make their appearance. We all regretted the apparent want of inteiest manifested by the non-ap pearance of the dear brethren. The meeting was opened by singing and prayer. Pro ceeded with business in the following order: Elder W. H. Cooper read an essay on, “ The Importance of the Spirit's Presence in the Churches." After remarks, the essay was unanimously adopted. Brethren who had been appointed to w r rite on specific subjects, but had failed to come, were, on motion, re quested to prepare essays on their several subjects for the next meeting of this body. An essay —“ Growth *in Grace," —was read by Elder N. A. Bailey. On motion, it was adopted. Took a recess of one hour, when, after prayer, ElderT. H. Stout read an essay. Subject: “Duties of Churches to their Pas tors." The meeting adopted it. On motion, the Clerk was appointed a Committee of one, to assign subjects to brethren upon which to write. The Mission of the Bethel Association, among the Choctaw' Indians, and the practica bility of Rev. R. J. Hogue remaining among them as the missionary of the Association, as he has done for several years, was presented for the consideration of the body. Remarks were made by several brethren, during which the following facts were stated: 1. That brother Hogue earnestly desires to remain among the Indians, to labor for their salva tion. 2. That he can be of more service (as he thinks) there than anywhere else. 3. He believes he can accomplish more in the Mas ter’s vineyard there, than any new man will be able to do, at least for some time. 4. The missionaries among the Indians, and who have been his co-laborers, desire him to remain. The subject was postponed till the next day, for further consideration. The meeting then adjourned till Sabbath at 10 o’clock a.m. On Sabbath morning, met pursuant to ad journment. Prayer by brother W. 11. Coop er. Heard reports from churches and Sab bath schools represented in this meeting. The churches were reported as being in a cold condition ; fearfully neglecting prayer meetings, Sabbath schootsand discipline. Ad journed to meet again at 1:30 p.m. The af ternoon session was opened with singing. Adopted the following resolutions in refer ence to brother R. J. Hogue and his mission: “ Whereas, Brother R. J. Hogue has re turned to the Indian Territory, and feels that he could do more good in that field than in any other, and as the Providence of God seems to indicate that he should remain there; therefore, Resolved, That we earnestly invite the churches to give an expression of their willingness to sustain him in his labors while he remains among the Indians, as we have hitherto done; and that they be requested to notify brother Thos. Muse, Chairman of the Domestic Mission Committee, Cuthbert, Ga.. immediately, of their action. Resolved, That we request a meeting of the Domestic Mis sion Committee, with this body, on Friday before the fifth Sabbath in April next, at Elim church, Calhoun county, to consider the subject of resuming this mission.” On motion, adjourned. T. 11. Stout. Greeuesboro, (ia., Baptist Church. I have been connected with this church, a3 pastor, since the first of January of the present year. Employing a settled pastor and securing his services for every Sabbath, is an experiment. It is to be hoped, however, the effort will be successful. There is no want of pecuniary ability to support a pas tor, and a willingness seems abundantly man ifested. Our denomination is by far the strongest in the place, and is evidently taking the lead in all religious enterprises. Our Sabbath congregations are large and atten tive. Our Sabbath school has increased nearly a hundred per cent, during the present year. Stiil there is much room for improvement. Our prayer meetings are largely attended, and much interest manifested. We have re ceived an unusually large number of acces sions to the church by letter, recently, and we anticipate a corresponding increase by ex perience and baptism soon. The pastor’s family have been the recipients of many and valuable presents from the members, espe cially the sisters. Contrary to the course of some ministers, I will not mention by name or even by initials, the kind sisters who have contributed to our comforts. I know it would be distasteful to their modesty. No pastor can boast of a nobler set of sisters—a more efficient corps of workers. This church has been in existence, I sup pose, over forty years. I believe Dr. A. Sherwood was the first pastor, followed by Rev. B. M. Sanders, Drs. Mell and Craw ford, and Judge P. B. Robinson in the order of their names. Revs. Carlos W. Stevens and T. J. Bond occupied the pulpit for a short sea son. With such men as the above as her in structors and guides, it is not strange that this church should be sound in gospel doc trines and practices, and deeply imbued with the spirit of missions. The membership of this church, from the beginning, have been distinguished for piety, intelligence and lib erality. Among the older membership that survive, our venerable Bro. Thomas Stocks still fills his place in the sanctuary, and is more frequently at his conference meeting than many that are younger in years. Ho now feels the infirmities of age. 1 believe he is in his eighty-sixth year, rich in honors, rich in grace and in the affections and confidence of his brethren and the whole circle of his acquaintance. He is patiently waiting the Master’s summons, “ Come up higher.” Rev. P. B. Robinson and Rev. J. A. Pres ton are worthy ministers and members of this church, prompt and ready to cooperate with the pas or in all his labors. Bro. R., my immediate predecessor, was a useful pas tor, but resigned the pastorate in consequence of his pressing duties as Judge of the Supe rior Court, yet he performs much missionary labor in the towns and villages within the bounds ot the Ocmulgee Circuit, where Bap tist preaching is much needed, and exerts a fine influence on the bench, us it is his praise worthy custom to open his sessions each day with prayer. I learn this practice is highly approved by the bar and by the attendants upon his courts generally. There is also a very flourishing colored Baptist church here, taking the lead of all others. I suppose they are pretty sound in doctrine and correct in discipline, as we hear nothing to the contrary. We are looking for the establishment of a lodge of Good Templars in our midst soon. Though this is not a Baptist institution, yet we think that many Baptists, as well as oth ers, would not be injured by embracing and practicing the principles inculcated by the order. W. D. Atkinson. Greenesborough, March 9th, 1871. Dublin Church. I met with our church at Dublin on the first Saturday and Sabbath in February. The object of my visit at that time w r as to assist in dedicating the new and commodious house of worship, which is nearly completed. It was with feelings of the greatest pleasure I greeted them on that occasion, as it was a field of former labor. Many were the strug gles 1 made for Christ there. At present, the church is abundantly supplied with excellent preaching talent. Bro. W. L. Geiger, a reg ular veteran in the ranks of Christ, is the effi eient pastor, and Bro. W. S. Ramsay, (son Timothy,) a young minister of great promise to the church,supplies the pulpit once a month. We trust the church will realize her superior advantages and improve them. The educa tional facilities are also most excellent. The Academy in Dublin, conducted by Bro. R., is a good institution, and, without his per mission, I will state that he is prepared to advance the student to any class in College. Bro. Geiger is conducting a school five miles below, and has proved himself “ worthy and well qualified.” E. B. Barrett. Brunswick, Ga., March 2nd, Is7l. To the Baptist Pastors of Georgia. Dear Brethren : The Board of Trustees of Mercer University have decided that it is best to have a General Agent of that institu tion in the field, and have made choice of me to fill the position. 1 have entered upon my duties, rel) ing upon the promise of Jesus and the cooperation of my brethren for success in this important work ; and I now ask each of you to keep the matter before your churches. God has placed you in responsi ble positions, and it is a solemn truth, that the account you will have to render, at the last day, will be in precise ratio to the means you possess for doing good. Years ago, the wisest and best of our Bap tist fathers decided that the interests of our denomination demanded an Institution of learning at which the rising generation could be prepared for more extensive usefulness by a liberal and practical education. With much toil, prayer and money, they succeeded in setting on foot the University which bears the cherished name of Mercer; and some of them lived long enough to see and enjoy the precious fruits of their toils and sacrifices, and were then gathered to their fathers, leav ing to us the work of finishing what their own hands had so worthily begun. Shall we be equal to their expectations? or shall we prove, by our failure, that we are not worthy sons of those holy men of God, who have gone to their reward in heaven ? Have the mantles of the Mercers, the Armstrongs, the Brautlys, the Maliarys, the Dawsons, the W ests, and others whose records are equally bright aud glorious, fallen upon the men of this generation ? These were men ol vigorous minds, of strong faith and hardy piety ; but shall all enterprise, all benevolence die with them? True, the people are poorer now than they were years ago, but it is not poverty which ruins enterprise, it is the foolish and selfish greed of gain that is the bane of good works. 1 have been a pastor for twenty years, and know, by experience, that the minister must be an example to the flock as well as a teacher to them, if he would accomplish most for Jesus. By a firm support of everything good, you will secure the favorable opinions of ail well-meaning men, and will increase your influence just as you employ it for the welfare of your race and for the glory of God. In times like these, we want no timi3, self ish, time-serviug men to lead the hosts of Xion, but those who love the cause of Jesus so much that it amounts to a burning, con suming passion, Mercer University has strong claims upon you and your people, and I beseech you meet them like men, and God will bless you in all your relations. H. C. Hornady, Ag't M. U. March 9th, 1871. Farmvillc ami Beulah Churches. Many are the complaints of pastors against their churches for being neglected by them, with regard to pay and otherwise, and justly so; but when a church does her duty, she should have credit for it. I wa3 called to the care of the above churches, situated in Lee county, Ala., for last year, which I accepted, and served to the best of my ability. 1 found them (and especially the former) a lively, working brotherhood, at which we re cei\ ed, during the year, 44 members, by bap tism and otherwise, and at the other about 23 members. These churches paid me every cent they promised, and the former one, sev eral dollars more, besides some good things sent to wife and little ones at home, and especially that good sized basket filled to the lull, “pressed down and shaken together,” and almost “ running over,” handed me by deacon TANARUS, for the family, and upon removing the nice cover discovered quite a quantity of rich backbone, spare-ribs, sausages, etc., too good to talk about; but made one feel as the old woman did when she joined the church, over in Georgia, like they had a hog killing time in their soul. 1 am still serving said churches, and the prospects are as good in every particular, as they were at commence ment of last year. May God bless our uni ted efforts there, for the cause of Christ upon earth. W. H. Stanton. Ordinations, February 25th and 26th, Elder J. M. Still well and T. H. Burruss met as a Presbyte ry, with the church at Sandy Creek, Morgan county, Ga., for the purpose of setting apart A. W. Brooks to the office of Bishop, and Charles Brooks to the office of Deacon. On Saturday, the candidates were presented by the church. Brother A. W. Brooks related his Christian'experience and call to the min istry, which was satisfactory. Then brother C. Brooks gave a brief account of his con version to Christ. Then followed the exami nation of the candidates, as to their sound ness in the faith, which was entirely satisfac tory. On Sabbath morning, sermon by the writer, imposition of hands and prayers, led by J. M. Stillwell; charge and presentation of the Bible by T. H. Burruss; presentation of hands to the candidates by the Pfresbyte ry, followed by the church; doxology and benediction by the candidate for the ministry. „ „ , J- M. Stillwell. Monroe, March 9th, 1881. Baptist Church, Columbus, Ga. The meetings which have continued for thirty-five days in this city, have resulted, thus far, in the conversion of over seventy persons, mostly females. Twelve have been received in our church for baptism, but we have not been able to use the baptistery, which is out of repair. This has been some hindrance to the meeting, as far as the Bap tist church is concerned. A general praver meeting is held every morning at the different churches, alternately. The reli gious interest is spreading in the community, and all of the pulpits are aided by visitin'* brethren except mine. I have made several efforts to procure aid, but have been unsuc cessful. A stranger in your State, I would beg that you interest yourself in my behalf, and seud me some assistance. Since Ist day February I have attended neatly eighty meetings, and been occupied with the inquirers in the intervening time. 1 may be able to continue for a week longer, but my strength is severely taxed. Send help, and, if necessary, call for it through the Index. Trios. E. Skinner. Golumbue, Ga., March 7th, 1871. From Alabama. The Editor of the Index and Baptist has frequently solicited information from the various portions of our States, and l have as cften determined to write, but various and numerous circumstances prevented. I pro pose sending short, but comprehensive sketch es, from time to time, of the aspect of our country, the character of our people and the state of our morals. My object in so doing, is to keep those posted—as suggested bv your last week’s female correspondent from the North—=-who may be necessitated, or may desire to change their place of abode. I will attempt a brief description, in this, only]of Pleasant Hill and Col lei rville commu nities, between which T. M. Bailey—a work ing preacher—and myself reside. The for mer place is a beautiful, healthy, sandy, w ell watered village, with three churches—one of which 1 serve—situate twenty miles south of Selma, near the Selma and Gulf Railroad. This place has never It •en seen but to bo ad mired. lhe latter place is very small, on an immense hill, and will compare in every respect with the former, except water. There is a good Baptist church near. This place is twenty three miles from Selma and six miles from Pleasant Hill. From one of these places to the other is an unbroken range of high, sand, fertile hills, at the foot of which, on either side, is an extensive, rich, prairie valley, a portion of which can be bought on fair terms. This country is generally well supplied with peaceable negroes. We have as refined, cultivated and honest citizens as the world affords. They were once wealthy, and are good livers still. They will welcome gentlemen and ladies from any quarter. The morals of our people have attracted the at tention and elicited the praise of visitors. Our churches are in a healthy condition. These are facts, and we invite all, who have a good spirit, to come. B. H. Crumpton. Pleasant Ifill, Ala., March 2,1871. Lights and Shadows. Some people have a sort of horror of re ceiving dispatches by telegraph. Well, I dislike very much to receive one I sent myself, for I had the trial of it recently, and there was not much light in it. 1 sent a mcs sage to a brother at V. to make au appoints ment for me, and after my arrival , 1 had the pleasure (?) of being a witness to that broth-, er’s reception of my message, paid for, and sent more than twenty-four hours before. It is not pleasant to be imposed on in that way. “ Iv’e no idee he knowed a word he was going to say when he got up thar.” So said a Primitive Baptist sister (so called,) in speaking of the sermon her pastor had preach, ed. The intelligent gentleman she was dis cussing the sermon with, said he was inter ested, though the preacher “ used such big words, he could not put them in straight, so he crossed and piled them.” The way he was interested may easily be guessed. No - tice, too, the evidence to that woman of a call to the ministry,” was that a man could preach without •* study.” I saw a man, a few days ago, with a good, intelligent, pious wife, and several bright, sweet children, and he a Baptist, going home’ from his store, so much intoxicated, he stag. gered two or three times against one yard fence. I thought of his treatment to a pro cious family, but worse of his treatment to Christ and His cause. Then, still further, l thought it probable his church, by its lax discipline, was to blame very much. Men if Christians, will have some respect for their church and its discipline, it there is anv Shadows! At TANARUS, I made the acquaintance of a young lady who was active in Sunday school, at tended promptly, listened with attention, and apparently, without interest, made her mis sionary contribution, and thanked me for my visit, for personal reasons. My, heart was glad. Her acquaintance made, and her zeal, was a ray of light. But alas! a shade, a cloud has obscured it. I passed that way a few days after, and preached. There was a ball the same night in TANARUS., and my young friend was—not at church was dancing at the ball. Heard the announcement for wor ship, but, between the places of pleasure and prayer, chose the place of pleasure. Daik was the shadow that almost eclipsed that ray of light; but very soon it was relieved by other rays. From South Carolina comes light—yes, green light and spiritual light. A dear sister sends her second bi monthly contribution, and, “ if not disappointed in my plans, 1 will be able to send one dollar monthly, instead of one every two months That is good, but listen at this : “ I have been, until this year, a solitary Baptist in the neighborhood where 1 am living, but the firm for stand ing alone.” Thank God ! there are some wit nesses for Jesus of the primitive type —-ome in Sardis yet, whose “ garments are not de filed.” Here is light from Jefferson, Ga., with a New Year’s gift for missions—a family offer ing. Sister H. A. D. loves the blessed cause of Jesus. From Eld. P. E. Hawkins, more help and words of cheer: “ My dear brother: Tne wealth of earth cannot purchase the got and feelings I have for my brethren all over the land.” So writes a brother who is poor, old and afflicted, but able to work for Jesus, and does work. How sweet is brotherly love! “ llow sweet, how heavenly is the s'ight” of loving Christians ! Well, it is cheering to meet with ministers whose hearts make their faces bright, like Bro. B’s, covered with sunshine. The heart filled with love to Jesus makes a face lovely. How my heart was warmed, as my dear bro ther told mo of his sweet communion with Jesus, and his enjoyment of his work ! —even enjoys giving, these hard times. May ho and his co laborers, —Cooper, near by, and Ingia ham, in Albany,—all be blessed more and more. W. N. Chaudoin, Agent. Infant Baptism.— We once heard a Pres byterian minister say, when asked if he be lieved that children dying in infancy were saved: “That baptized children dying in infancy are saved, I know” was his reply; 1 hope all others are!”— Standard.