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78 llaifex ani jgdpifci **• Proprietor, ROOMS —4 l 8 SOUTH BROADWAY. Editor: Bev. D. SHAVER, D.D. OOBRKSPONDINO EDITORS: Rev. J. J. D. RBNFROE, Talladega, Ala. Ray. S. HENDERSON, D.D., Jacksonville, Ala. THURSDAY, MAY 18, 1871. Baptisls a Peculiar People. It Is very clear, from the reading of both his tory and the New Testament, that when Chris tianity was introduced into our world, it was re garded as anew th'ng under the sun. Nothing like it had ever been seen before. Its peculiari ties were distinct, bold and prominent, and as serted to be essential to the very life and exist ence of the system. Without the peculiarities, the scheme could have no being; its existence was suspended upon its distinctive traits. It was declared to be the “new and living way,” the “ new cloth" in anew garment, “ the new wine in new bottles,” a "new commandment,” re quiring "anew heart,” and making man "a new creature;” and under its influence, men "spoke with new tongues,” in such power that the enemies of their novel religion inquired, " What new doctrine is this ?” “We never heard it on this fashion.” "May we know what this new doctrine whereof tbou speakest, is? for thou bringest certain strange things to our ears.” And therefore it is not to be wondered at that the early Christians were “ the sect everywhere spoken against,” for they propagated a religion which protested against every existing plan— which proposed to supplant Judaism on the one band, and destroy paganism on the other; and which “put to foolishness the wisdom of the wise,” and pronounced the teachings, and altars, and worship of their most learned schools of philosophy, “in all things too superstitious.” Hence, Christianity was revolutionary—it was declared to be a system which “ turned the world upside down.” In the Protestant Christianity of the current age, there is much of the form and spirit of prim itive Christianity—and we rejoice at this. There is, however, to be found among Protestants, some of the very errors—sacredly and earnestly held— which the religion of Christ and His apostles was intended to supplant and destroy; errors, too, which cannot exist in harmony with the unbro ken form, or the unmarred spirit of a real New Testament religion; errors which will destroy both the form and the spirit of that religion, when allowed to do their full work and to lead to their legitimate end. Now, the Baptists have some distinctive and peculiar doctrines—we mean, they hold to senti ments which distinguish them from every other people under heavfen. And we maintain that the distinctive principles of the Baptists are among the peculiarities of the first Christians—that is, at the very points wherein we differ from all oth ers, wo are in harmony with the early churches of Ctirist; and, therefore, our peculiarities are of such importance as to be essential to the preser vation of pure gospel churches—essential to the perpetuity of New Testament Christianity. And .his is the idea we intended to evolve in this aiticle— Baptists are a peculiar people. They are like no other people. And their power is lodged in their peculiar traits of character— their sublime moral force and aggressive strength reside in their singularity. The moral forces of the denomination are onward and irresistible when these peculiarities, without bigotry or pomp, and with meekness and love, are allowed their right ful prominence, and permitted to assume their proper importance. On the other hand, fearful weakness is discovered, and great danger is at the door when these heaven appointed family marks are obliterated, or ignored, or for any reason re tired into obscurity or hushed into silence. For without their distinctive features, their denomina tional existence is an absurdity, it cannot be apologized for; but with these features, no apol ogy is needed; nay, these distinctive traits move through the world with such point and angulari ty, and yet in such symmeteical beauty, and with such evidence of divinity, as that their right of existence is asserted as an absolute necessity. They occupy their own ground and stand upon their own merit. Here it may be asked, Wherein are Baptists so peculiar, and why may their peculiarity be thus magnified? We may here mention, as first among these peculiar views, our own view of the New Testa* ment as the sole arbiter in matters of faith and practice. Dr. Wayland says: “ The fundamental principle on which our difference from other evan~ gelioal denominations depends, is this: we profes3 to take for our guide, in all matters of religious belief and practice, the Neu> Testament , the whole New Testament, and nothing but the New Testa ment. Whatever we find there, we esteem bind ing on the conscience. What is not there com manded, is not binding.” To demand “ precept for, or example of,” is peculiar to the Baptists. The decisions of ancient councils, the doctrines of church dignitaries, or traditions from whatever quarter, without precept or example in the New Testament, are regarded by us as only the opin ions of a man who lived a thousand years ago, than we have for thote who livo to-day. The Council which made the larger and the shorter Catechism, or the thirty-nine articles, had no more authority to bind the consciences of Christ’s disciples, than had the Ecumenical farce which met in Rome something over a year ago. But then it will be asked, Do not all Protestants take the Holy Bible as the sole authority for their faith and customs ? We answer, They do not. It is impossible so to receive the Holy Scriptures when the “ Prayer Book," or the “ Confession of Faith," or the "Discipline” is enjoined—creeds which contain and enforce many things that are not to be found in the word of God. The learn ing and candor of the Christian world have as sumed that infant sprinkling, in precept or exam ple, is not to be found in the word of God. The basis for this corrupting institution must there fore be found somewhere else. In the language of the celebrated Dr. Woods, an advocate for Infant bapti>m, “It is plain, there Is no express precept respecting infant baptism in our sacred writings. The proof, then, that infant baptism tfl a divine Institution, must be made out in some-other way. He then adds, that authority for it “ may be af. Corded by an unwritten tradition." And upon 41 unwritten tradition" it, with other institutions rests. The traditions and the institutions we re ject. The Baptist view of the spirituality of the church of Christ is peculiar to themselves. There is no fundamental law lying at the door of a Baptist church requiring the admission of the nnregenerate to membership. There is no place In our churches for the unconverted, whether they be infants or adults. "lie that believeth and is baptized.” "Except a man be born again, he cannot see—lie cannot enter the kingdom of heaven.” “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou rnayest” be baptized. “Ya are as lively atones built up a spiritual house." " Baptism is the answer of a good conscience toward God," and therefore it is infinitely absurd to administer it to unconscious babes. Infant baptism has, in vast districts of ibe earth, destroyed the spirituality 0/ the existing Christianity, and this it will do THE CHRISTIAN- INDEX A«D SOUTH-WESTERN BAPTIST: ATLANTA, GA„ THURSDAY, MAY 18,1871. wherever it reaches the culmination of its ten dency. It is not supported by the word of (Sod ; it wrests the Holy Scriptures ; it engrafts Juda ism upou the Christian system ; it is the basis of sacramental and ritualistic yeligion; it every where attaches to the doctrine of baptismal salva tion, and subverts the doctrine of justification by faith; and finally, it despoils the church of those peculiar qualities which are essential to the church of Christ, and works on until it blots oat every vestage of true New Testament cburchship, and supplants the ministry appointed by Christ with a priesthood appointed by a corrupted “church.’ All these things, with their results and tendencies, are rejected by Baptists, and, by Baptists alone. If any one wishes to see the essential impor tance of Baptist peculiarities, let him witness how they will, from stern necessity, show themselves in almost any discussion between two Protestant denominations. In an instance which we have just read, a Methodist minister of distinguished abilities, in to meet the assumptions of Episcopalians, finds it neces sary to virtually establish and maintain that prim itive churches were independent. Another, in order to controvert babtismal salvation as held by the Episcopals, finds it necessary to plead for the spirituality of the church of Christ and for a con verted membership in a manner which sets infant baptism at nought. Another, in meeting the Popish doctrine that the Pope, and the Councils, and the church are to be received as the ultimate arbiter instead of the word of God, finds it necessary to contend that whatever is not written in the Bi ble is of no authority, and that the councils of no church can bind the consciences of men. Another, in order to show that this sect or that one started wrong, at the wrong time, under wrong circum stances, with improper motives and false doctrines, virtually sils in judgment upon the origin of every Protestant church, and comes near rejecting the whole. How often, in such discussions, are the leaders of these denominations found asserting the old Baptist doctrines of soul liberty and in dividual responsibility in matters of religion, al though these doctrines are destructive of the whole system of Pedobaptism. We wish we could convince the Baptists that they are a peculiar people; that they are like nobody else, and that they cannot be like others; that their principles require them to go forward as a novel —singular people; and that in so far as they abandon their peculiarities, they destroy their strength and mar the beauty of their Scriptural individuality as the church of God. Let it not be understood that we are pleading for personal odities in habits of thought and ac tion. Assumed idiocrasy in the manners of per sonal life is little better than downright idiocy. A man's own eccentricities are not the things for which we are pleading. We are contending for the divine distinctive trials of faith and practice given in the New Testament, and which are to be found in a well ordered Baptist church. In the New Testament and in a Baptist church these traits may be seen, and there alone ! Let us not be ashamed of our ecclesiastical pe culiarities. In many important respects, God has separated us into an elevated plane of solitary grandeur, and here is the scat of our power and the lease of our operations in efforts to subdue the world to the reign of the holy Jesus. Let us cheerfully admit—nay, let us contend that we are a peculiar people. "A glorious future awaits the Baptists,” and that future awaits them as Baptists, and because they are Baptists. Our denomina tional origin was peculiar. Our history has been peculiar. Our church construction, faith, ordi nances and ministry are peculiar. And a pecu liar future awaits us. Let us be zealous of good works. R. * Consistency. —A writer in the Southern Chris tian Advocate states that, on communion occa sions, Methodist presiding elders, after reading the invitation contained in the Discipline, are ac customed to add, that brethren “in good stand ing in other orthodox churches are also invited.” On the supposition that " this addendum ” is and» signed "to limit the invitation to baptized per sons, because only such are properly members of the church,” so that “ men of the world, even though they do repent, are not invited,” he says : “ We sometimes speak of our Baptist brethren as close communionists ; but in point of principle, are we not precisely as close as they, if we hold that only baptized persons may approach the table ? Since upon this supposition our rule of exclusion is just the same with theirs, our practi cal difference arising from our difference in opin ion as to who are properly baptized. Nor, if bap tism be an indispensable prerequisite, are we con sistent in commending the open communion of the English Baptists, while they still hold that immersion is the only scriptural mode of baptism ; for our doctrine, as above stated, would deny the principle upon which their doors are thrown open to other churches. That principle is that, while it would be more regular for baptism to come first, yet this is not indispensable, as it is no where enjoined by the word of God. But the doctrine in question contradicts that principle and proclaims it unsound.” This writer objects to the limitation, on the ground that two or three, met together to worship God, are (as Mr. Wesley held) a church, in the broad sense," "though neither baptized nor enrolled with any organized body of Christians and on the further ground that, as " persons are sometimes converted out of the church,” we should not ‘ withhold one insti tuted means of grace from God’s children because they lack another.’ He preserves his own con sistency, of course ; but It is only consistent loose ness and disorder which be can claim for himself; and it remains to be seen whether his brethren will follow him to such lengths, in order to secure a logical basis for their opposition to Baptist usage. We do not believe that they will. They will bold to the principle on which that usage rests, yet inconsistently cry out against it. "At Rest.”—A correspondent of the Richmond Religious Herald is "much obliged to” the edi tors of that paper “ for setting at rest the old story about Patrick Henry's speech.” The letter of Dr. Peck, avowing the authorship of the speech, did this work far mGre effectually, within less than a score of years; and yet even that has failed to prevent the intrusion of the speech afresh into polemic and historic works, of more than average respectability. In due season, we doubt not, it will appear again and again, without hint or dream of its apochryphal character. No ghost of myth, or legend, or tradition, was ever laid so easily as that writer seems to imagine. They are like the Dutchman’s hen, which he wished to "set” against her will, which, for that purpose, he placed under a box, and which, even there, to use the language of his chagrin, plaguily, " set a-standing 1” Encouraging Statement.—A to Georgia Baptists. Rear Brethren and Slaters: With gratitude to God, a heart encouraged and purposes strength* ened and enlarged, Ihasten to give you the fol lowing statement, received from our laborious Secretary, of the labors of our Domestic and In dian Mission Board, for past Conventional year. Receipts $81,828.17. Missionaries for the year, 181. Baptisms, 882. Receipts from Georgia, $8,799.50. Good for Georgia! Let every heart respond “ Good for Georgia!” thank God and take courage. But, brethren, left go upward from good to better. From a little over 87,000 last, to nearly $9,000 this year, is surely good. My proposition is that we adopt as our motto, “ for Domestic and Indian Missions $12,000 brethren, ministers, on# and all, bow easy we can raise the above amount, if we go to work, every one , ao even a little, and work with system. We have 24 missionaries in Georgia, and the Board paid for labor to Georgia missionaries the past .year, sß,l77.47—nearly as much as Georgia contributed, and if the amount expended had been given up to the date of the above statement of receipts, it might have been equal to it. Now brethren and churches, pass the word on, on’ down the line, $12,000 for Home and Indian Missions by next May I "You hear the motion; all in favor of the proposition” pray for the cause, and send money to me at Atlanta, care of J. J. Toon. W N Chaudoin. Southern Baptist Convention. St. Louis, Mo. r Mat 11th, 1871. At 10 o’clock a. at., the delegates to the sixteenth meeting of the Convention assembled in the Third Baptist church, (W, P. Yeaman, pastor,) and were called to order bsmP. H. Mell, President of the body during six preceding annual sessions. Prayer was offered by H. McDonald, of Ky, The names of the delegates were reported as follows: Maryland. —J W M Williams, J B Thomas, Sr., E C Williams, R H Graves, G W Samson, E D Jones, A F Crane, J Levering, G W Sanderlin, G F Manning. Virginia.— W F Broaddus, A M Poindexter, J L Burrows, A E Dickinson, T S Dunnaway, J VV Jones, C H Ryland, J L Johnson, J R Garlick, J F Deans, J A Barnes, C C Bitting, E D Starke W E Hatcher, W W Davis, W P Snead, M Moore’ J H Gwathmey, J M Bradley, N W Willson, E B Branch, T Herndon, J B Taylor, Jr., R Marshall, J H Kerfoot, G P Prescott, W S Pilcher, R N Pollard, B Taylor. N. Carolina.— J Mitchell. S. Carolina.— E T Winkler, J P Boyce, W Williams, W D Thomas, C H Judson, T P Lide W H Webb. Arkansas.— W R Rock, J K Murphy, W M Lea, W D Mayfield. Missouri— J E Welch, R S Duncan, T W Bar rett, W C Busby, D II Selph, H C Wallace, J W Waddell, J C Maples, A C Rafferty, X X Buck ner, N Flood, J M Robinson, W H Burnham, W R Rothwell, Y R Pitts, J D Murphy, L B Ely, J M C Breaker, T Rambaut, J H Lanneau, 0 P Moss, A G Mitchell, J T Smith, M M Modesett, R Hollman, E G Garnett, W M Bell, J Jones, J T Latimer, J C Hamner, G W Rogers, N J Smith, C W Pendleton, W P Yeaman, J H Luller, A Sherwood, S W Marston, A H Burlingham, T Montgomery, W B Lawler, L M Berry, J Tavner, J W Warder, A 0 Avery, J F Cook, J McPike, S Sheppard, S E DePacker, A Beauchamp, G W Hyde, M L Laws, G W Smith, M Williams, B Stark, G W Robey, L B Deaton, M F Williams, J B Womack, A C Kendrick, D T Morrill W Johnson, W W Mitchell, B F Hardesty. Tennessee.— C C Conner, M Ilillsman, J M Chambers, L Sainge, L H Milliken, J C Spinks, J M Senter, W T Bennett, A Hatchett, W S Taylor B May, M W Phillips. R G Craig, D C McDorgle’ J M Beathe, J R Graves, J H Borum, G W Young, J B Duncan, S H Ford, B Kimbrough, W A Nelson, J Shackelford, W G Inman, J D .Martin, T T Eaton, W F Jordan, F H Beard, T G Jones, W A Montgomery, J R Chestnutt, D M Mcßey nolds, S J Norton, T Posted, Kentucky.— C Lewis, J A Kirtlev, J S Cole man, W H Felix, T M Vaughan, D B Ray, J 0 Kirk, J W Brown, G W.Gwin, J D Biggs, H Mc- Donald, J C Freeman, H Johnson, C Keyes, A T Spalding, R M Dudley, S L Helm, G T Bagby, N Long, R H Caldwell, B W Caldwell, T S Gardner, A W Chambliss, W E Chambliss, W M Burr, C B Pruet, J M Weaver, C C Chaplin, J L Smith, H D D Stratton, R Ryland, H Talbird, E B Stratton, S C Long, W B Smith, W M Pratt, S F Thomson, J S Long, A S Woodruff, J J Collier, W J Dun can, G W Burton. Georgia.— P II Mcll, T E Skinner, J H DeVo tie, D Shaver, J II Kilpatrick, J G Ryals, II A Tupper, F M II ay good, R B Headden," A R Cal laway, J F Awlry, J J Toon, W II Strickland, W H Howard, W J Lawton, J E Amos, J W Fears, N J Bussey, Jr., G A Lofton. Alabama. —E B Teague, P T Warren, W C Cleaveland, S R Freeman, T M Bailey, B H Crumpton, W M Davis, E T Smyth, J Shackel ford, I T Tichenor, 0 W Buck, W Hudson, I Put man, W H Mclntosh, M T Sumner, T S Sumner, D VV Gwin, R Weaver, P T Warren, J W Steel. Mississippi.— J L Pettigrew, W S Webb, T J Walne, J W Bozeman, B G Manard, E Dupree, R II Whitehead, J W Stein, R G Hewlett, N T By ars, E W Henderson, J H Oaslins, J H Cason, A D Brown, L A Burruss, W II Carothers, T C Teasdale, W D Burge, R H Hoshad. Louisiana. —W E Paxton, B W Biakewoods, A E Clemmons, T J Aden, J N Howell, J H Tucker, T H Morgan, E G Taylor, J N Howell, J M Lewis. Texas— W W Mitchell, E Dodson, J B Link, 0 H P Garrett. The Convention proceeded to the election of officers. P H Meli was chosen President; E C Williams, of Md., Secretary, T S Sumner, of Ala., Assistant Secretary; J S Coleman, of Ky., A Sherwood, of Mo., J L Burrows, of Ya., and J W M Williams, of Md, Vice Presidents. W F Broaddus, of Va., led in prayer, during the delay of reports from the tellers. J W M Williams, of Md., offered a resolution, calling for the appointment of a committee of two from each State represented in the Conven tion, to nominate members of the Boards for the next year, which was adopted. The hours of meeting and adjournment were fixed, and Pastor Yeaman, in behalf of the Bap tists of the city, gave the Convention a hearty wel come to St. Louis —which he characterized as not a Baptist city, not a Protestant city, not a Chris tian city. There are eight American Baptist churches in a population of nearly a third of a million. He hoped that the session of the Con vention might be blessed, to give an impetus to our cause, in this great political and commercial centre, where only a small proportion of the citi zens attend the worship of God—less, indeed, than frequent the beer gardens, theatres, etc., on Lord's day. J L Burrows responded in behalf, especially, of the Atlantic States. He pictured St. Louis, as it was in his boyhood, and expressed the hope that the Convention would leave behind it a salutary influence for Jesus. J E Welch, of Mo., alluded to the fact that fifty-four years ago, it was a common thing, to kill wild game—squir rels, turkeys, deers, —in “the woods," on the spot where the Third Church now stands. Adjourned with prayer by W M Davis, of Ala. The Convention re assembled at 2 o’clock, p.ji., and prayer was offered by D T Morrall, of Mo. On motion of A Sherwood, it was decided to raise a Committee to examine the Constitution of the Convention, to ascertain what amendments may bo necessary or expedient. A communication was read from J B Taylor, of Ya., Cor. SBC. of the Foreign Mission Board, la menting his unavoidable detention at home by sickness. Prayer was made for his restoration; T G Jones, of Tenn., leading. Communications were read, also, from AY CCrane, of Texas, and from the Secretary of the St. Louis Mercantile Library Association; the latter, inviting members of the Convention to visit the rooms of the As sociation, was recognized with thanks. Visiting brethren were invited to seats: JD Fulton, of Mass., G W Anderson, of Pa., M J Knowlton, missionary Ningpo, China, G S Mer riam, agent of the American Bible Union, etc. The pastors and deacons of the Baptist churches in the city, were appointed a Committee on reli gious services. The reports of the Board of Foreign Missions and of the Treasurer, were read by J B Taylor, Jr., of Va. The receipts for the year (including a balance in the treasury at the beginning of the year ol $1,505.21,) have been $27,25451 ; ex penditures, $24,293.84; the balance, $2,958.67, is oalled for by appropriations for the year. The increase of receipts over those of last year was $5,244.98. Os the contributions to the Board during the year, only $2,527.68 came from Geor gia, and $1,720.79 from Alabama. The Report of the Board was referred to Committees on Agencies, Chinese Mission, African Mission, Eu ropean Mission, Enlargement of the Work, etc. The Report of the Treasurer was also referred to a Committee. M T Sumner, Cor. Sec., read the Report of tbO Board of Domestic Missions. B W Whilden has devoted one-fourth of‘his time, since Novem- ber last, to the Chinese laborers in the South. Including a balance in the Treasury at the begin ning of the year of $219.03, the receipts have been $31,442.2^—an advance on those of the previous year of $9,673.44: Expenditures, $31,078.87: Indebtedness for missionary labor up to April Ist, $8,963 The Board has had 181 mission aries in its employ, (against 64 the year before,) who report 862 baptisms (against 343 the year be fore.) Expenses in the-collection of. funds 16 per cent, (against 22 per cent, the year before.) The contribntiofft-from Georgia amounted to 8,799.50 ; for Alabama, $5,482.22. The Report of the Board was referred to Committees on the Religious Con dition of Colored People at the South, on Orphan Asylum injhe Creek Nation, on the Religious In terests of Ctonese in the South, and on the Duty of our Chqjshes in regard to Home Evangeliza i tion and the best means of its Performance. The Report of thp Treasurer was referred to the same Committee wjth the Report of the Treasurer of the Foreign Board. Adjourned with prayer by E G Taylor, of La. At night, jjjjre Introductory Sermon was preach ed by W Williams, of S. C. (We shad give it to our readers hereafter.) Friday, May 12 th, 1871. At 9 o’clock, am., the Convention opened its morning session, with prayer by J E Welch. De votional were conducted by J S Cole man, who offered prayer ; as did G W Samson, and W II Felix. A communication was read from North Street Baptist Tung Chau, China, commission ing its pastor, J B Hartwell, to represent it in this body, whd'was introduced to the Convention and received the hlhnd of fellowship from the members generally. HiTaddressed his brethren in thanks for their cordial welcome to his native land. Thir teen years ago, at the session of the Convention, he was ordained to the ministry and designated as a missionary. Providence directed him to the North of China, and privileged him to establish the first Christian mission in Tung Chau Foo. The church raised up by him has been taught to proclaim the gospel in the regions beyond, and prosecutes effective missionary labor. He urged the responsibility of the churches for the exten sion of Christianity. It was voted to print in the minutes of the Con. vention the historical sketch contained in the ser mon of W Williams last night. The resolution of the Georgia Baptist Conven tion deprecatory of agitation as to the abolition or removal of any of the Boards of this Convention was read and referred to the Committee on Nomi nation of New Boards. The President announced the following Com mittees : To Nominate Boards.—J W M Williams, A F Crane, C H RyJj»nd, M Moore, D D Johnson, J Mitchell, J B Boyce, C H Judson, W D Mayfield, W M Lea, J II Luther, A C Avery, M Hillsman, A Hatchett, S L Helm, N Long, H A Tupper, J F Awtry, E B Teaguo, I Putnam, E Dupree, W S Webb, B W Bfakewood, A E Clemmons, W W Mitchell, E Dodson, II B McCallum. On Credentials. —J S Coleman, G F Manning, J W Jones, D 4) Johnson, J Mitchell, W D Thomas, W R Rock, X X Buckner, W A Mont gomery, J H Kilpatrick,Sß Freeman, J W Stein, J M Lewis, A E Clemmons. Constitutional Changes. —A Sherwood, D Sha ver, W Williams, J K Murphy, T C Teasdale, J R Howell, J M Weaver. Treasurers' Reports. —W F Broaddus, A F Crane, W J Lawton, W C Cleaveland, M W Phil lips, II C Wallace, W M Pratt. Agencies. —S L Heltn, A E Dickinson, C C Con nor, S F Thompson, P T Warren, R.S Duncan, F M II ay good. China Mission.'—J E Welch, R Ryland, TE Skinner, R Weav(j|, B Kimbrough, R H Graves, J L Johnson. • African Mission^ —E T Winkler, C Lewis, D H Selph, II B HeaoJen, E T Smyth, G W Young, J L Pettigrew. European Mission. —G W Samsop, A T Spal ding, A H Burlingham, J B Taylor, Jr., T T Eaton, M T Sumner, N T Byars. Enlargement of Work. W H Mclntosh, J B Hartwell, S W Sanderlin, O C Betting, T Ram bant,*W II Felix, J W Bozeman. Colored People. —A M Poindexter, J AY Steel, C C Chaplin, J AY Bozeman, AY E Paxton, AY A Nelson, R Holman. Orphan Asylum in Creek Nation. —S H Ford, II Tulbird, J M C Breaker, B G Manard, J H Gwalthiney, C H Judson, J B Thomas. Religious Interests of Chinese in the South. — R II Graves, J A Kirtley, L H Milliken, T G Jones, M M Modisett, B Taylor, AY M Davis. Duty of Churches, Home Evangelization. —E G Taylor, T M Vaughan, S J Norton, G AY Rogers, T Herndon, I T Tichenor, G A Lofton. A resolution was offered by G AY Samson, pro posing to raise a Committee to consider whether any plan can be devised to secure greater co-ope ration between our Boards on the one part and State Boards and General Organizations devoted to foreign and domestic missions, ministerial edu cation and the publication of religious literature, on the other. He wished no change in organiza tion : but held that co-operation is necessary in the performance of the work of the churches be yond their own limits, and the great problem is— how to secure it. . S H Ford, of Tenn., desired co-operation, but believed that discussion checks it. It must be the spontaneous outgrowth of Christian love and zeal. On his motfon, the reso lution was laid on the table. The Report of the Sunday School Board was read by T C Teasdale, Cor. Sec. The receipts during the year, $19,198.71: expenditures, $lB,- 808.09: liabilities, $5, 972.59 : assets, $18,776.40. Os the receipts, $7,850.26 were by contributions from the several States : of which sum, $1,514.47 came from Georgia, and $694.53 from Alabama. The expenses of managing the affairs of the Board for the year were 25 per cent, on its gross receipts. The report was referred to three Committees : on its publications, on its missionary work, and on the claim of Mrs. Cooper. The treasurer’s report was referred to the committee charged with the reports of the treasurers of the other Boards. Adjourned with prayer by C R Blackall, of 111. At 2 o’clock, P. 11., after prayer by W II Strick land, of Ga., the report of the Treasurer of tbe Convention was read and ordered to be printed in the Minutes; and the Convention proceeded to the election of Treasurer and Auditor. G W Norton, of Ky , was elected Treasurer, and N Long, of Ky., Auditor. A communication was received from 0 R Black all, inviting the members of the Convention to attend the Northern Baptist Anniversaries, next week, in Chicago. The thanks of the body were returned for this courtesy. The President announced the following Com mittees : Publications of the Sunday School Board. — J R Graves, A R Callaway, N Flood, J L Burruss, W H Caruthers, D B Ray, T P Walne. Mission Work of the S. S. Board. —J H De- Yotie, A W Chambliss, E S Dulid, T S Dunna way, J R Chestnutt, C W Buck, J C Maple. Mrs. Cooper's Claim. —M Hillsman, J G Ryals, E Dodson, W H Barksdale, E D Starke, W B Lawler, T M Vaughan. The Gommittee on African Missions reported; recommending the Foreign Mission Board to train colored preachers for that field, in view of the increased enquiry in Central Africa, respecting Christianity. J L Burrows stated that tbe sub ject had attracted the attention of the Board, and was shaping its policy. G W Samson felt that the providence of God was leading the way to such efficient Baptist labor In Africa, as might parallel the work that made us the originators of the first modern Christian church in Rome. J D Fulton, of Boston, spoke by invitation. He had been for years engaged in the education of Freed, men, and is now President of the National Theo logical Institute; but be did not believe that tbe North alone could perform this work. The ques tion of the near future is, whether America shall be Romish or Baptist; If Southern and North ern Baptists will unite to educate all classes of our population, that question will receive a hap py solution. S H Ford held that the Baptists of the South felt for the Freedmon as no other peo ple on the earth did—or could. The speech of the Boston brother raised the enquiry, whether our Northern brethren were unlearning the be lief that our past relations to the colored race un fitted us for the woik of educating them. He thought that if the Baptists of the North in this work showed singleness of aim, an eye to reli gious ends alone, the union which this brother desired, would come in due season. A M Poin dexter spoke of his personal interest in the col ored race from boyhood, and of his solicitude for their spiritual interests throughout his student and ministerial life. He believed that the way was opening for more hopeful missionary labor in Africa than ever before; and we have growing up around us all the missionaries that South and North alike can support. The report was adopt ed. The Committee on the subject recommended that the question of agencies be referred to the Boards; which was done. G W Burkton, J W Fears, J M Bradley, L Wilson, B W Blakewood, J Levering, and A Hatchett were appointed a Committee to fix the place of the next session, and to nominate the preacher of the Introductory Sermon. Adjourned with prayer by E S Dulin. [Thursday, p.ii.— We have delayed publication a day beyond the usual time, hoping to be able to lay full proceedings of the Convention before onr readers. The mails have, however, failed to supply us in regular or der. We are, therefore, compelled to forego that pleas ure this week. In our next issue, complete proceed ings will appear.] —. 9 Front Alabama, Our " District Meeting” closed last Sab bath, and every one who attended must feel conscious of moral elevation. It was held with the “ Pleasant Hill church, 1 ’ in Dallas county. We had several of those convincing, life inspiring speeches from Dr. Freeman, of which acquaintances know him to be capable. He also gave us three sermons, the effects of which will be felt until the judgment. He is surely where he belongs—at the head of the Institution, of which Alabama Baptists ought to be proud. I wish it were expedient in this article, to say more of Dr. F. and Howard College; but I promised, ins*my last, a de scription of Elder F. M. Baily’s field and work. By the way, this indefatigable pastor, with Dr. W. C. Cleveland—both be-, longing to our “ District”—gave us two of the best addresses in our meeting, just closed, I ever heard. We all feel thankful for such earnest and able co-laborers. These breth ren were the getters-up of this style of meet ing in our country, which has done more in sixteen months for indoctrinating and devel oping practical Christianity than the preach ing of twelve years. Bro. T. M. Baily was once a Moravian mis sionary to the West Indies. There he be. came convinced of error with regiird to bap tism, married an excellent wife, and came to America and attached himself to the Baptists. Since that time, (above fifteen years,) he has loved them and labored for them. He is now the esleemed pastor of “ Old Town church.” in Dallas, and “ Ash Creek” and “ Mt. Gil ead” churches, in Lowndes county. Ileris a wonderful Sabbath school man, and in those churches of his charge where they have failed to have a Sabbath school, it would be useless for another to try. He is a near neighbor of mine, and his post office Pleasant Hill. I hope his modesty will not blush so minute, yet real description of the man. “ Old Town church” is situated between Benton and Pleasant Hill—eight miles from each—on gravelly soil, and “ much water” is near by. It is in the midst of a fine farming neighborhood, with every character and qual ity of soil. The aspect of the country is very inviting for several miles in either direction. The church numbers about sixty, and the greater part very efficient members. They have the most thoroughly organized and un precedentedly interesting Sabbath schbol in this land. Nearly all of the church belong to it, and they meet punctually every “Lord’s day.” The church is thoroughly baptistic. They have regular preaching once a month, but several of them are desiring it twice. They, however, have had considerable repair ing to be done, which afforded a legitimate excuse for preaching once this year. Too much could scarcely be said of this noble body of disciples. The next session of the Alabama Association will be held with this church. If any one believes I speak in extravagant terms of it, let him visit it during the session of that body, beginning on Friday before second Sab bath in October. ” The “ Ash Creek church” is located about twelve miles southeast of Benton, in Lowndes county, in the prairies, where the rich soil comes up to the very door. The country is beautiful in summer, but sickly, and scarce of water. This church is not so strong, numeri cally nor financially, as the first; and they have no regular Sabbath school, on account of bad roads in winter and the distance of some members from the church ; but they have preaching twice a month, and contribute liberally to missions. Mt. Gilead is situated between the last mentioned church and Benton, in Lowndes county, upon sandy soil, surrounded by prairie and Creek lands. This is a beautiful, level country, well watered, and only tolera bly healthy. There is a good deal of wealth in that section, but very little in the church. This church is very weak, having lost its two deacons last year; yet they pay their pastor three hundred dollars for one Sabbath service a month. Bro. P. H. Lundy served this people for a number of years. They need the sympathies and prayers of God’s children, and I trust they will have them. Bro. Pro prietor, visit these churches next fall, and I think it will be profitable to you and them. In my next, I will give an account of Dr. W, C. Cleveland’s field and work. Some of your Georgia churches are after this brother, but I trust Alabama will not be so soundly asleep as they were when they allowed Dr. Tatbird and several others of worth to leave them. B. H. Cbumpton. Pleasant Hill, Ala., April ZOth, 1871. Ebenezer Sabbath School Convention. The Second District Ebenezer Sabbath School Convention met pursuant to adjourn ment, April 29th, 1871, with the Blue Water Sunday school at Pine Hill Academy, Lau rens county, Ga. After preaching by Rev. W. L. Geiger, from Ps. xxxiv: 11— “ Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord ” —a subject so befitting, and so beau tifully, and so clearly demonstrated by our worthy brother—and prayer by Rev. J. J. Morgan, the Convention proceeded to a per* mnnent organization, which resulted in the re-election of Bro. J. Rivers, President, and M. L. Burch, Clerk. Proceeded to the appointment of various Committees. On motion of Dr. H. Fisher, Rev. W. S. Ramsay was requested to address the Con vention on the “ One Universal Lesson Sys tem” of teaching, which he did in a most in structive and impressive manner; and, upon a vote being taken, it wa9 found that this Con vention did most heartily concur with Bro. R. in setting this down as thb mode, and, on motion, again recommended it as such to all the Sabbath schools in the district. Applications were made from various Sab bath schools for the next annual session of this Convention, but it was finally agreed that it be held with the school at Bethlehem, Lau rens county, four miles east of Dublin, on Friday at 2 o’clock p.m., before the sth Sun day in April, 1872. Brethren are requested to bear this in mind, and to send on their dele gates, as we sincerely desire a representation of each Sabbath School in the district at our next annual meeting. 1 can scarcely close this communication without saying something of the flourishihg Sabbath school at Pine Hill, with which this Convection had the pleasure of Convening. It was organized about one year ago, under the superintendency of Bro. H. M. Burch. Bro. 8., though a hearty supporter of the pro ject, was loth to accept the position as super intendent ; but, making it an object of special prayer, finally resolved that he would not "bury his Lord’s money/’and, with his corps of faithful teachers, aided by the prayers of the good people around there, went to work ; and surely a most delightful season have they in reflecting upon the good works they have been instrumental in doing. The Holy Spirit ssems to smile upon their efforts; for, already many of their number have been received into the church of the living God, and others, as we learn, are now laboring under deep con viction. The school now numbers—including teachers—nearly one hundred regular attend ants, and is yet under the superintendtnoy of Bro. 8., with the faithful and efficient services of Bro. L. ,1. Rivers, as Assistant Superin tendent. Sunday School Scholar'. Publin, Oa., Hay bth, 1871. Friendship Association. The District General Meeting of the Friend ship Association convened with the Baptist Church at Eilaville, Friday, the 28th of April 1871, at 11 o’clock, a. m. Elder Isaac Hart preached the introductory sermon, Ist John, iii: 1, and Elder G. W. Weekly closed ‘the services with prayer. The meeting was organized by electing Elder Isaac Hart, Moderator, and S E Eason, Clerk. The Moderator appointed the following committee on preaching : Brethren Sears, Battle and Epps. The meeting adjourned until 2 o’clock, p. m. The afternoon session was opened by sing ing and prayer by Elder Keath. On motion of Bro. G. F. Cooper, the reading of the Essays was postponed until to morrow. The questions for debate were also deferred until Saturday. Bro. Cooper moved that the meeting now spend some half hour in devotional exerci ses. Bro. G. T. Wilburn moved to amend by adding, that the meeting debate any vol untary question which may be submitted, and that after the discussion this body spend half an hour in devotional exercises. The resolution as amended was passed, and Bro. Wilburn submitted the question, "Should members of the church permit their children to attend dancing schools—and what action should the cliuich take in reference to such members '! Brethren Wilburn, Keath and Hart spoke warmly upon this question; after which Bro. Cooper offered the following resolution which was adopted; " Resoloed, That it is unwise in Christian parents to patronize dancing schools, as it is inconsistent with Christian character, and should receive the condemnation of ail the churches of Christ. The body now proceeded to spend some time in devotional exercises. Singing and prayer by brethren Battle and Epps. After which the Moderator appointed the following Business Committee; G. T. Wil burn, G. F. Cooper and G. W. Weekley. On motion, adjourned until 9 o’clock on to morrow. Bro. Keath preached at night. Saturday Morning, April 29, 8 a. m. Singing and prayer by Elder Keath. The minutes of the previous day were read and confirmed. Elder B. Hinton then read an essay on the subject which had been assigned him by the General Meeting when convened at Buena Vista: “ Was the commission given by the Saviour to the Apostles, limited to them'?” If so, by what authority do minis ters now preach the gospel ?” The essay was commented on by brethren G. F. Cooper, J. Cay wood, G. T. Wilburn and Keath. On motion, by brother Cooper, the essay was adopted, and Bro. Hinton requested to fur nish a copy for the press. The body ad journed until 11 2 o’clock. Elder B. Hinton preached at 11 o’clock : Eccle. xii: 13. AFTERNOON SESSION. Opened with singing and prayer by Elder G. F. Cooper. Attended to the reading of the essay assigned to Elder G. T. Wilburn, at the last general meeting, on the following questions : Ist. Are the terms Elder and Bishop used interchangeably in the New Testament, as applicable to the same officer in the churches of Jesus Christ ? 2nd. If they are so used, are all Rishops Elders, and are all Elders Rishops? 3d. Do all Elders in the churches of Jesus Christ labor in word and doctrine? 4th. If all do not, what i3 the work of those who do not, and if these have a script ural title other than that of Elder, what is it? Bro. Hinton moved that the thanks of this body be tendered to Bro. Wilburn for the very ajde essay which he hasjust read. The motion passed unanimously. Bro. Mott moved that Bro. Wilburn be requested to furnish a copy of the essay for publication. Bro Wilburn objected on the ground that he did not have time to prepare the essay for the press. Bro. Cooper moved “That Bro. Wilburn be requested to furnish at least the argument from the New Testa ment.” Passed. After the reading of the essays, the meet ing proceeded to consider the questions pro posed at the last general meeting. Ist. Has a church the scriptural right to require the attendance of her members on her conference or business days ? This question was discussed in an interest ing manner by Elders G. T. Wilburn, G. F. Cooper and R. Keath. The decision of the body was that a church has the scriptural right to require the mem bers to attend on Conference days. 2nd. Is there any secular business to which we can attend on the Sabbath, without viola ting the law which requires us to keep it holy ? Discussed ably by Elders G. T. Wilburn, R. Keath and G. F. Cooper. Bro. offered the following substitute, and moved that it lie over until the next general meet ing. Passed. What secular work does the New Testa ment forbid to be performed on the Sabbath ? The 3rd question proposed at the last meeting was postponed until the next meet ing. (The Committee on Business submitted the following questions for essays and dis cussion at the next general meeting:) Ist Essay. Does scripture require that feet washing should be perpetually observed by the members of Christ’s church ? If scripture does so require, when and where should it be observed 1 Elder J. 11. Cay wood to write. 2nd Essay. What is the import of the word baptism, as found In the New Testa ment 1 ? Elders G. F. Cooper and J. 11. Corley to write. Ist Question for Discussion. What means can be adopted to induce God s people to study more carefully the Scriptures, and to place a higher estimate upon their teachings 1 2nd. What are the scriptural prerequisites /for admission to the Lord’s Supper 1 Bd. Are there any circumstances under which one called of God to preach the Gos pel may decline the work and give himself to secular employment 1 4th. What secular work docs the New Testament forbid to be done on the Sabbath ? On motion, Elder Wm. Duncan was ap pointed to preach the Introductory Sermon at the next general meeting. Elder J. H. Cay wood, alternate. The thanks of the body was extended to the citizens for their kindness and hospitality. The body then adjourned. Sunday Morning, April 30. The members of the body attended the Sabbath School, but by some misunderstand ing, very few children were present. The Sabbath School exercises were, opened by Elder G. T. Wilburn. The teachers then proceeded to hear their several classes. Elder G. F. Cooper preached at II o’clock, after which a small collection was made for brother Buckner. Elder G. T. Wilburn preached at 3 o’clock, and Elder G. W. Weekly at night. The entire exercises were interesting and impressive. The next general meeting is at Sharon church, near Brown s Sta ion, the sth Sab bath in July. Isaac Hart, Moderator. S. E. Eason 1 , Clerk. EllavilU, Scldy Cos., Ou., April 28, 1871. A Suggestion. In future let the Georgia Baptist Conven tion elect its President at the close of each session. This arrangement will give the President elect a year in which to acquaint himself with the rules which will enable him to preside with ease, and dispatch business. Let us remember that it is understood that the Presidency of the Convention confers power, and that it may bo “ wielded” and “ laid down.” Let us remember that the power which some think has been “ wielded for harmony and union,” may be wielded for unsauctified purposes, and the attainment of the ends of personal ambition. Let us remember that Baptists are no more than men—are subject to like passions as others, and therefore love power, and rare ly reach the point where they—when invest ed with it—would decline to use it. Let. us be careful, then, how we clothe even Bap tists with power. Let all Baptists read the 15th chapter of Gibbon’s Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, and learn from a disinterested wit' ness that the churches of the 21 and 3d cen turies opened the path w hich Baptists for the last half century have been treading—that error and power—which in religion go hand in hand and refuse to be divorced—distracted aud rent the churches of those times, and culminated in seating the Pope upou his throne-—the head of Babylon»the great—the mother of harlots; who has made all “na tions drunk with the wine of the wrath of her fornication, with whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication,” and of whose “golden cup”—in which are hid her “abominations and imparities”—even Bap tists have tasted. Wickuffe. Meeting of Third District Central Associa tion. Quite a respectable delegation from several churches in the district, met at Ramoth church, on Friday before the filth Sabbath tilt. The Introductory Sermon was preached by Bro. G. W. Smith, in the absence of Bro. E. Jew el'i. The Committee on Business reported two very interesting queries, which were dis cussed with great earnestness. The first had reference to an increased knowledge of the Scriptures among church members, and the method that pastors should adopt to enlist a more careful reading and study of the Scrip tures. After the discussion, led off" and sus tained with spirit to the end, the following resolution wafc adopted: We recommend to pastors to assign certain portions of Scrip ture for careful reading, each month, and pastors .to make it a part of their duty, at their regular or occasional visits, to make such Scripture the subject of conversation. The other question had reference to the want of knowledge among our members re specting missions, and consequent want of sympathy with this important church work; and what method should pastors adopt to create more efficiency in mission work, among their members'? After a pleasant discussion, this resolution was adopted : Resolved, That we recommend to pastors to appoint agents from among their female members, to collect funds for our various be nevolent projects, and report to them monthly, and further recommend that these agents in form themselves respecting their individual agencies, and converse frequently on said subjects, and thus endeavor to infuse in others a greater interest in missions. Just after the passage of this resolution, a collection was taken up for the deficit in our State Mission, and $25 was seut to Bro. Chaudoin. Our pastors’ private meeting, on Saturday afternoon, for mutual sympathy, advice and encouragement, was very pleasant and profitable. We had faithful and earnest preaching during the session. Our next meet ing is to be held with Carmel church, in the Ist district, on Friday before the fifth Sab bath in July. Did brethren know how pleasant and prof itable these meetings have become, they would allow no ordinary business to prevent their attendance. v S. VVaynmanvillc Church, da. hou may be surprised to receive a com munication from me at this place; but I am teaching a school near Waynmanville, and have charge of the Baptist church at that place, reorganized by Rev. W. 11. Richard son and myself, in honor of the late lamented Rev. Jacob King, under the name of “ King’s Chapel.” lam also preaching two Sundays a month in Thomaston. This church is im proving, under the efficient labors of Bro. A. J. King, in the Sunday school. He Is bring ing it up to a high standard of usefulness. The aged and the young are all enlisted. The Adult Bible Class is a popular feature, whilst every child is made to feel that he or she can do something besides studying the lesson. We have been recently presented with a fine or gan, by the New ork Merchants, through the instrumentality of Col. Mart. We are just introducing the envelope sys tem, and with the future cooperation of our female members and the united prayers of every member, accompanied by the Holy Spirit, we hope for glorious things. W. J. Morcock. Thomaston, Ga. Letter from East Tennessee. It i9 sometimes an exceedingly difficult matter to get something to fill up a news let ter. This is particularly true with your cor respondent at this time. Many things which are quite interesting to us, would not be so to your readers, and when I cull over the counts that have transpired since my last letter, 1 find that there is really so little to present that I am half-inclined to abandon the task of writing, for the present. Our churches arc enjoying the usual quiet between the “revivals,” and we need not expect much news from them until the sea son of protracted meetings returns. It will, doubtless, be difficult for some of your read ers to understand this, and it may be neces sary for me to remark, that there is a sort of periodicity in these matters, in East Tennes see. During the Fall and Winter, it is cus tomary to hold meetings and put forth extra ordinary efforts, w hich are generally attended with results corresponding to the means em ployed. When these meetings are over, in the large majority of cases, no effort is made beyond that of keeping up monthly preaching, until the next “revival”—a sort of Bethesda arrangement. We are now quietly awaiting