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THREE DOLLARS PER ANNUM. Vol. XXXI.—No 36. —~ —'■■ ■-y ' ■■' l ' ■-t ■ - 11 —• INFANCY. p RT JAMES C. DOWER. When first mine eyes beheld the light of clay, As in iny loving mother’s arms I lay, To my unpracticed infant sight a 1 ! seemed Unreal, as if I only dreamed. , ~ Bright dreams 1 had; bright visions parsed mine eyes; All t tings were new and pleasing with surprise, I reasoned not on what I saw ; bat there, '"Where thought and care were absent, all was fair. ’Ti» said that ignorance is bliss—’twas so With me, in that bright period, long ago; 'file pictura of my future life had been Withheld from me, and 1 had never seen Had sights of suffering, as I, since then, Havo seen, among the'wretched sons of men. Unconscious of the pangs that I should bear In after life, 1 sweetly slumber’d there. I dreamed and smiled, as I was warmly pressed Upon my faithful, loving mother’s breast! My wants were all supplied—tbosa wants were few— My sustenance I fiom ray mother drew. Hhe ivu« my life, my all, and 1 to her, a.uw y . ( That mother slumber, now beneath the sod; Her loving spirit winged it. way toGod. Though lost she is to us, her children, here, We yet may meet tier in a brighter sphere. Farewell, dear mother 1 On that peaceful shore, We hope to meet again, to part no more I Irwintun, On , Aug. IT, 1868 Contributions. Thoughts on the Unfruitfulness of Preaching.—No. 11. DY REV. O. H WELLS. Thera arc othor camea of failure no doubt, —many of them perhaps —and causes that may be removed. The minds of the people may be ao in tent upon other subjects, so absorbed in some political question, or some community interest of a worldly character, as to render preaching temporarily ineffectual. The remedy suggests itself. The cause of failure may be found in the minister’s mannors; his life; the moral at mosphere that surrounds him; the spirit that pervades his life. Mach specific in stanoe may have its peculiar cause. But all these are perhaps irrelevant to the matter in hand. The charge brought against the ministry is, that tho preached gospel is in effectual ; and this means, that it does not accomplish the good it once did—does not result in an amount of good proportioned to the labor expendod. This we will ad mit without bringing a host of charges against Church and ministry to account for it. We havo already mentioned ouo great, ciuseof failure existing in the hearers of the word; another may be, want of faith on the part of the ministry. Wo believe what wo preaoh. We feel its truth in our hearts; but at the same time, we torget that a successful gospel is made so by the power of God. Learned discourses, metaphysical reasonings to dem onstrate God’s existence, the truth of rev elation, and all the disputed points of the ology, may have their place in tho polemic world; but they rarely reaoh the heart of the learned infidel, much less the hearts of aim umsww. A simple rjksfisrs, of rsligjfous experience—gospel truth in gospel language —by plain men of God, has done more to convert mankind, than all the learning and rhetoric of tho ago. We lose sight of this, perhaps. Instead of looking for and trust ing solely in divine energy to render our work effective, we look to the strength of our arguments, the foroe of our reasoning, the pathos of our delivery—something ex traneous from divinity. We should labor as though all depended on our labors, and lay it all upon Christ—trust it to Him, ‘‘who of God is made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemp tion,” that “ no flesh should glory in His sight.” The minister’s faith in God for immediate results from his preaching should at least find this expression : “ I believe Thou, O God, art the effectual worker; without Thee I can do nothing. I believe Thou wilt convict every sinner in this con gregation as deeply as is consistent with Thy will. If they will believe on Thee, Thou wilt convert them. Thou wilt work in tho hearts of Thy people, as powerfully as Thou eanst., consistent with tho ways of infinite wisdom and goodness ’’ If this is the firm conviction of the minister’s heart, good will be accomplished to a greater or less extent. Oar failure to accomplish the good wc ought, may bo in many instances attributed properly to the spirit of unbelief in tho ministry. After all, Mr. Wesley may give us as much satisfaction upon this point as any other person. He says, “I was considering what could bo the reasons why the hand of the Lord, (who docs nothing without a cause,) is almost entirely stayed in Scotland, and in a great measure in New England. It does not become us to judge perempto rily, but perhaps some of them may be thesehe enumerates three possible causes —inordinate self-esteem among many of them causing them to refuse God the liber ty of sending by any but men of learning; next, bigotry in their own- opinions and mode of worship; and thirdly self-indul genoc. Vide Journal, July 23,1755. These may be causes of failure now in special instances; but I am slow to believe, that these sins are so general as to account for the general inefficiency of the Gospel. An extract from Mr. Wesley’s Journal of July 13th, 1756, affords a very satisfactory explanation of the difficulty beforo us—sat isfactory to the writer, at least—“ Ever ywhere the work of God rises higher and higher, till it comes to a point. Here it seems for a short time to be at a stay. And then it gradually sinks again. All this may be easily accounted for. At first curi osity brings many hearers; at the same time, God draws many by his preventing grace to hear his word, and comforts them in hearing One then tells another. By this means, on the one hand, curiosity spreads and increases, and on the other, drawings of God’s Spirit touch more hearts, and many of them more powerfully than before. Ho now offers grace to all that hear, most of whom are more or less affect ed, and more or less moved with approba tion of what they hear, desire to please God, and good will to his messenger ; these principles, variously coubioed and rnereas iog, raise the general work to its highest point. Bat it cannot stand here; for in the nature of things, cariosity must soon decline. Again, the drawings of God are not followed, and thereby the Spirit of God is grieved The consequence is, he strives with this and this man no more, and so his drawings end. Thus both the natural and supernatural power doclining, mo9t of tho hearers will be less and less affected.” Is it not a fact that these natural and su pernatural influences have lost their power over tho mass of hearers in our. country ? Preaching salvation by faith was a novelty once — n ow it is a common occurrence. Time was when God applied his preached truth to the hearts of men and women— some of them aged—for almost the first time; now, where is one who has not grieved and grieved, again and yet again, God’s Spirit ? The plain truth is, we are a “gospel-hardened people.” We have quench ed the Spirit, driven him from ns; and hun- #i**ffier« fliifiatt IMwaff* dreds who onee felt his Influence, feel hoth infnf his presence now. Hundreds are drawn by him but slightly, who once were powerfully moved. The natural result of rejecting Christ rests upon the masses. The young arc our hope. They have not' spurnedsalvation, and are still impressible. ,Wc repeat it, that it becomes us to speak modestly here. Perhaps each mind his its own views, of this subject—partly v right, partly wrong. Lot us each endeavor to dis cover the obstruction in his individual eas 4 e. pray for its removal, and rest not till Zion travail, and “her sons come from far.’’ P. S. Since writing these thoughts, the Article No. 2 of “Countryman’’ has reached me. So far as he goes, he is, to my mind, on the right road. He certainly has discov ered one cause of inefficient preaching. The Griffin District Meeting. Tbis deliberative body assembled on Tuesday the 11th inst., at Jonesboro, ac cording to appointment. Bro. H. J. Ad ams preached the introductory sermon on the night before. Bishop Pierce was not present, and some regret fMf, m-aifestp$ f tbat we should be deprived oZfthe services of this highly esteemed superintendent of the Churches. But all were more than re conciled by the presence of that venerable Father in Israel, Bishop Andrew. The Conference wasWganized oa {Tuesday morn ing—the Bishop presiding. Dr. C. F. Redding, of Zebulon, was appointed Sec retary. The attendance was full, and all the stations, circuits and missions were rep resented by the preachers in charge, with one or two exceptions—the absentees send ing up letters of excuse on the ground of successful revival meetings on their respec tive works. The Lay Representation was full and the Churches well represented in every respect. The committees were duly appointed and the Conference proceeded to its work. The Reports from tho various charges were given orally with leading questions from the Bishop and others. Tho substance of them was preserved by the Secretary, but we cannot give even a synopsis of them.— The Bishop gave due attention to all the interests of the Church and all the necessa ry facts were elicited for the coming Re ports of the committees. The Reports of the committees on the various interests of the Church exhibit study and reflection— arc full of interesting facts, and breathe a good spirit. We can only notice them briefly: ON STATE OP TIIE CHURCH. 11. J. Adams, I. Winship, Jno. Fox worth, J. H. May, R. M. Jackson.. This Report offers no Resolutions—A brief Re view of the work—Thanks for the good ac complished—Regrets there is so little done, so few revivals—Design of Methodism to save souls—the design of all preaohing— The Fathers’ preaching aimed at imme diate results, so should we, in every ser mou, every appointment, and in all our meetings of every character—The work of salvation not to be confined to one week or definite period in the year—such polioy would prove unproductive of fruity-An appeal to all to work, to pray and hope for good—immediate results. on s. SCHOOLS. J.W.Reynolds,D S. Redding, B.S.llarper, T. F. Turk, W. S. Stillwell. A cheering Re -Sehf. forth ejaime .of Savday school cause lmportance to our civil and social interests —To the Church—Asa benevolent enterprise—For the Poor—The thousands of Poor Children—of Destitute Families— of Parents financially rained—of others fallen on battle-fields—our own children, all demand the School—Will redeem our land—live to do good—live with us in Heaven. RESOLUTIONS. Ist. Wc are gratified to hear of tho in creased prosperity of this cause, and that our past success shall only stimulate to more faithful efforts—pledge ourselves as pastors and lay members to increased labors, and keep up our schools in the wintor wherever practicable 2d. Wc will seek to establish collateral schools in the bounds of our circuits, so as to bring tho whole country under the in fluence of Sunday schools. Will labor es pecially for tho poor and orphans. 3d. We request our P. E. to petition the Bishop of our next Annual Conference to appoint one or more agents whose duty it shall be to travel through our bounds and raise money to furnish libraries gratuitously to destitute sections. ON EDUCATION. James B. Hanson, W. A. Rogers, J. W. Turner, Sara Grayaud George Bryan. This report sets forth the importance of a Bible Literature for our schools—a Philosophy re oognizing God and Religion. Recommends certain books—“ Lieut. Maury’s Geography of the Sea—Greater uniformity as to Text Books—Our own Books, Literature and Teachers in preference—Warnings and los sons from Romanism—Vocal music in schools as the remedy for defects in Church music—Warnings against a corrupt and trashy Literature—a corrupt taste for read ing—This evil to be met and neutralised by circulation of a pure Literature—More zeal in the circulation of onr Books, Papers and Periodicals recommended. RESOLUTIONS. Ist. Duty of the Church to lead in edu cation—to create and control publio opin ion and to bring conscience to the great standard of morals and religion—the Bible. 2d. That ministers and members should use all laudable means and efforts to oppose the circulation of the corruptfjjterary trash of the day 3d. That we urge our people to give their patronage to our own schools and colleges, and favor Southern productions in prefer ence to Northern works, etc. 4th. That we prge upon our people the importance of employing such teachers as will open school exercises every day with the reading ot the Holy Scriptures and prayer. sth. That we favor the introduction of vocal music in our schools. Gth. That we cannot too earnestly depre cate the sending of onr children to Romish schools under any circumstances, and that we especially recommend to onr denomina tion Wesleyan and Emory Colleges as good Institutions of learning. ON CHURCH EXTENSION. W. P. Pledger, O. B. Rice, W. M. Blan ton, G. W. Davis, James Stafford, W. C. Redding, D. , ( W. B. Hendrick, J. E. Beall, M. M. Bentley, J. R. Smith, W. P. Arnold, D. Nolen, J. R. Smith, Jr. This Report offers no resolutions. Ist. De sign of Christianity —2d. Methodism adapt ed-to fulfill this design—like Christ, carries Gospel to the Poor —3d. Follows not in the wake of civilization; goes in advance—“sows beside all waters” —4th. Much remains to be done—Certain waste places in bounds of Dis trict—No Methodist Church nor Preachers there—P. E. and Missionary and Loeal Preachers must take care of this ground. sth. Necessity of District as to Houses of Worship—Many Churches in bad condition —unworthy of the name of churoh—barns. Improvement in this respect demanded— Would bring respect and render means of grace more effeotive. ION BOOKS, PERIODICALS AND CHURCH LITERATURE. W. P. Rivers, John M. White, J. N. Harris, Wm. Hamlin, E. M. Owens This Report sets forth : The importance of this interest-—Pulpit one great instrumentality for Evangelization—The Press another sub ordinate and collateral—Consecrated Press —Literature not appreciated—signs of Progress— Patronage too limited—Great difficulty not so much poverty as absence of moral appetite for the spiritual food sup plied by onr Literature—Our Church Lit erature indispensable to all our interests— civil, social, religions. RESOLUTIONS. Resolved , Ist. That we recommend on the part of our Book concern and Printing departments all possible liberality,accommo dation, etc. Resolved , 2d. On the part of alt the min isters and agents for the sale and circula tion, all possible energy and activity and gratuitous benevolence, &o. That they see no family be destitute of a copy of the Holy Scripture, and that every Methodist family be supplied with Bible, Discipline and Hymn Book. *> Resolved, 3 d. That not only the preach ers bu* all the patrons of our Advpoates and the Sunday School Papers, viz: Nashville and Southern Christian Advocates, and the Sunday School Visitor, ana Burke’s Week ly, consider themselves as sgents for, and each one in his sphere advance these into rests according to his ability. Resolved, 4th. We recommend the great est possible economy and retrenchment on the part of our membership that these vital interests be not sacrificed, &c. ON FINANCES. C. H. Smith, R. W. Morrow, P. J. How ard, A. J. Blalock, IL J. Bean. This Re port declares emphatically , “the laborer is worthy of his hire.’’ The efficiency of ministry is crippled by their meagre sup port. The Report recommends early and efficient organization on the part of the Stewards. The plan of assessment as the only efficient and correct plan is recommen ded on the basis of successful experiment by many churches. The Board of Stewards must meet early and fix the preacher’s sala ry—apportion the amount among the several churches—notify them—a committee in each church with a steward as President to apportion the amount required of each church, among the membership. Each member, regardless of age, sex or condition, should something however small, according ability. Payments to be made month ly or quarterly, according to circumstances. Proper care must be taken of parsonages— supplies promptly secured. A committee of ladies should be appointed whose duty it should be to take care of furniture, ko., and to solicit subscriptions, &c. .The Re port concludes by a resolution, pledg ing the ministry to the same liberality in support of the cause of Christ, which they expect from the Church in their own sup port, ON TEMPERANCE. Elijah Foster, Miles G. Turner, Stephen Carnes and G. Winship. This Report sets forth the Disciplinary Rule as to the use of spirituous liquors. Expresses fears that too many use it in violation of discipline—that sonic in our communion are distilling and preparing to distil; others furnishing fruit, and so putting tho bottle to their neighbors’ mouths—an unhallowed use of the abund ant fruits God has given us. Our poverty no excuse for yielding to the temptation. the Lord ami do good,” &». Tim drunkard’s wife and orphans plead against this evil thing—Drunkenness on the in crease. RESOLUTIONS. Ist. Our Church Rule in this matter shall be carefully observed by us. 2d. Remember our solemn vows “to do no harm’’—“to avoid evil of every kind.” By no consideration will wc be led to distil liquors to be used as a beverage, or furnish fruit or grain toothers, &c. ON RELATIONS OF COLORED PEOPLE. F. B. Davies, Chas. Purifoy, S. Bivins, J. 11. Stafford, Sam’l Gray. This report regrets so few of the colored people adhere to us. Wc have a community of interest with this people—Ought not to neglect them. Regrets that they do not appreciate the interest taken in them—in their religious culture and well being, and that false teachers have alienated them from us. RESOLUTIONS. Ist. Wo will continue to offer them the means of grace to the best of our ability, hoping the time will come when they will appreciate our efforts in tlieir behalf. 2d. We will continue to allow them the uso of our churches for religious purposes, but will not allow our places of worship desecrated by preaching politios or holding political meetings in them. The following delegates were elected to represent the District in the Annual Con ference. P. N. Maddox, L. E., W. C. Redding. Wm. M. Blanton, S. Carnes, Alternates F. E. Manson, L. E., H. C. Smith, Alex. M. Speer, B. L. Harper. Resolutions of thanks to the officers of Macon & W. R. R., were adopted, and in the same manner, gratitude expressed to tbe pastor and members of Baptist Church for their house of worship, and to the citi zens of Jonesboro and surrounding country for their kindness and hospitality. Cu;lo de n the place of meeting next year. In conclusion we would say the occasion was one of great interest and pleasure to all—was characterised by great harmony and good feeling. Business was the chief concern of all, and not much time was spent in speech-making. Bro. C. W. Smith, as agent for the Advocate, fully represented his claims and the brethren showed a due appreciation and zeal in its behalf and se cured some subscriptions. The Bishop also was faithful to the Advocate, endorsing the compliment that, “the S. C. Advocate is the most religious paper we have.’’ We re gretted much our friend Burke, “the Chil dren’s Friend,” could not be with us. The District meeting left a revival be hind it at Jonesboro—a meeting of much interest and promise—many mourners at the altar and some accessions. During the ses sion of the Conference,religious services were held three times a day. The preaching was simple, direct, evangelical, and some of the services were delightful spiritual seasons We were glad to see the Bishop, old as he is, aide to preside more or less at every session. His good humor was re markable. llis noble and benign face seemed to say, “What then remains but well our power to use And keep good humor still whate’er we lose.” The people were gratified much to see and hear him preach, which he was able to do several times, and much feeling and ten derness of heart were evinced under his simple eloquence and unvarnished story of the Cross. He himself is a living epistle to the Churches—a sermon incarnate. “The calm of that old reverend brow, the glow Os its thin silver locks was like a flash Os sunlight—in the pauses of a storm.” Long may he live to do good and see good in the land of the living ! “Let never-fading honor flourish round him, And consecrate his name ever to time’s end ; Let him know nothing but good on earth, And everlasting blessedness hereafter.” Again, thanks aud blessings on the Jones boro people, and may revival influence at tend the preachers now hard at work all over the District. C. F. Redding. W. P. Rivers. H. J. Adams. PUBLISHED BT J. W. BUBKE ft C©.* FOB, THE M. E. CHURCH, SOUTH. Macon, Oa., "Bite, September 4, 1868. Atlanta District-Meeting. This meeting convened at Ga, Aug. 6th, and was opened with an ia- j troductory sermon by Jtev. W.NF. Parks, at. 11 o’clock, A. M. Many of tbe pointed, well-timed and impressive remarks preacher will be remembered longanur- be , has passed to his teward. „ The meeting was nr“ inizgd Bishop Andrew presiding J. F/ and Rev. V. E. Manget were cboseif%iit€ taries and the usual committees appointed, $ Bishop Pierce appeared next morning relieved Bishop Andrew, whS; thoaglLjna feeble health,, continued in attend®*, through the entire session and favol%4Mwe , meetings now and then with mC■£ wise onnttsel and* encouragement. Pierce, in the chair as well asiutbe pUpKI was with us in the fullness of 4fce blewuijjUg of the Gospel of God. From first to INK* the interests of religion received special at tention, and, as we trust, were grariously , promoted by all the exercises, both in pulpit servioes aud during the business scs-,j sions. , =l. j The Rev. W. J l . Cook pnwfcnted povt from committee ou f unday Sohoo* The gratifying evidences of prosperity'! this department of the operations of the' Church, afforded by accounts from every part of the District, were duly noticed, and, attention was called to tbe importance of’ continuing to use diligently, and of intro-1 during generally, those appliances which, contribute to swell the “rising tide,” while, ,■ at the same time, we guard watchfully - ., against any evils to which our success may expose us. Personal supervision and active interest on the part of the pastor was insist ed upoD, as ot chief importance. The preacher who neglects the Sunday School, - is not the man our people now want as pas - tor for themselvos and their children. The introduction of music and tbe adaptation of songs to the capacity of children, it was„ thought, had done much toward rendering the Sunday School room attractive and its exercises plcasiDg. There is danger, however, of running into a hurtful extreme in light and frivolous Sunday School sing ing. Care should be taken to introduce and sing only such songs as arc Scriptural in their sentiments and which serve to inj struct as well as please. A music hodt adapted to our own Sunday Schools, from our own Publishing House would contribute muoh to that end. The Committoe pressed' their high appreciation of the Sun day School Visitor, and were agreed in opinion that such a paper issued weekly, wouid supply a desideratum widely if not universally felt. The formation ol Sunday School Mission' ary Societies and the holding of annual Sunday School Conventions were recom mended as serving to contribute to tbe in terest and prosperity of the cause. In con clusion earnest reference was made to ode great evil to which our very prosperity ii this matter exposes us. In proportion ini the Sunday School is prosperous and efl cient, Christian parents may bo tempted up transfer the duty of training their childref religiously to the Sunday School teaches» and thus, while the Sunday School flourisli es, family religion may decline. The ejH it was argued, did not result from wrong in tho Sunday School system,. from a disposition in human Xt fl lect duty and transfer ncßPonsibil|fc ever occasion offers, Tq ar-il iVf'jJUH it WjSs only necessary tbat the of parents be kept enlightened and alive & to their personal obligations in this tant matter. Pastors and Sunday SchjAf. Superintendents were charged with the ty of seeing to it tbat this was done, that tho earnest co operation of all Chris tian parents was scoured a3 far as possible, in sustaining tins interests of the Sunday School, so that', by the generous concur rence of home training and Sunday School instruction, the greatest good to the greatest number might be effected. The following resolutions were adopted, viz: Ist. Wc have reason to feel profoundly grateful to God for the measuro of prosperi ty with which He has favored us in our Sunday Sohool operations. 2d. We will not relax our efforts, but en couraged by past success, labor and look for yet greater results. . 3d. The formation ot Sunday School Mis sionary Societies, regular instruction in Sunday Sohool singing, annual Sunday School Conventions, and such like applian ces, are recommended as promotive of the - efficiency of Sunday Schools generally. 4th. That the Secretary of this meeting be requested to transmit to our Book Agent at Nashville, the following for his conside ration, viz : It is the sense of this meeting that the issuing of a Sunday School Music Book from our own Publishing House, and the publication of the S S. Visitor weekly, instead of monthly, would contribute large ly to the success and prosperity of the Sun day School cause, within our bounds. . The Committee on the State of tbe Church, through its Chairman, Rev. W. J. Parks, presented, in substance, the follow ing Report, which was cordially received : From all the information that we have been able to obtain, we are happy to an nounce tbat there is muoh in the state of the Church in this District that is cheering and encouraging. Among some of our members there is true and saving piety as evidenced by their profession and practice. The family altar is kept up, the means of grace are faithfully attended. While this is the case many others give evidence of a defective piety by the neglect of those du ties so essential to vital religion. They conform too much to the world, participate in its pleasures, and are “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God,’’ the consequence is that the party parlor is thronged and the prayer-meeting neglected. In view of these facts it was Resolved, Ist. That all our preachers be and they are hereby advised to preach ex pressly and frequently on Christian expe rience, setting forth clearly the nature, ne cessity and evidences of the new birth, striv ing to convince all the people who hear them that'religion is a thing to be felt, known and enjoyed by those who have it. Yes, that “the kingdom of God is righteous ness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.”— Let them also urge on all, the necessity of showing their faith by their works. Let them, if possible, impress upon their minds the great truth that obedience to the re quirements of the Bible is the good fruit of a good tree, the true test and satisfactory evidence of a gracious state, and wo beg and entreat those of our ministers especially who have charge of circuits and stations to press these matters home on the members of our Church in their pastoral visitations so as, if possible, to have all our people in ternally and externally religious according to the Bible standard. And farther? we urge them to a strict, mild, godly, but pru dent administration of tho discipline of our Church so that all ia our communion may be in fact as well as in name Methodists. Resolved, 2d. That we most urgently and affectionately entreat all those in our Church who are heads of families to keep up family religion at any sacrifice. Let your entire family be called together night and morn ing without intermission or abatement to hear the word of God read and to join you in your earnest prayers for God’s protection at night, and for His counsel, protection and guidance by day. Give evidence of the sincerity of your profession and your love to God and Christ’s spouse—the Churoh— «-ariendhig promptly on all the means of Space and the ordinances of His Churoh.— Erray in secret, read your Bible, attend your [class meeting, be at the prayer meeting, land be there to help, if called on, by leading Sin prayer. Avoid the society of the vicious, keek not the companionship of the giddy, [frivolous and gay who so insidiously steal [our hearts away from God and His service, r In conclusion, the membership of the I Churoh are exhorted to remember that these rare days of poverty and afffiotion with our | country and to aid faithfully in supporting [the ministry ; to refrain from costly apparel and extravagant living, and to remember f that some kind of demons go not out but by ' fasting and prayer. f The Chairmain of the Committee on Jiooks and Periodicals, Dr. A. Means, re ported that, “Next to the lofty mission of the Christian Ministry, and even in power ful aid of its sacred functions are the clear, logioal, and luminous issues of the Religi «Press. From its raking batteries, sup (£*d by the published emanations from tho . U>Btified minds of the Butlers and Paleys, •nff. Watsons and Clarkes, the Fletchers and uWtsleys of the Churoh, infidelity has met -Jktti some of the most startling repulses Tpiich have arrested its destructive progress J modern years, while the majesty ofßeve ‘lgiion and the power of Truth have been handed down to future ages. . The Committee also expressed their con viction that it is our duty to bring into ythe field our amplest resources, “especially |to win the hearts and train the minds of our beloved offspring in the formation pe riod of their young history.’’ To secure these important results our excellent Book concern at Nashville is earnestly and con fidently recommended to fathers and moth ers, guardians and teachers, throughout our connection, and our people are requested to aid cordially in the dissemination of our publications in accordance with the plan of the Book Agent in order to liquidate the debt of the pnblishing house. Tbe Committee also urged a more general eironlation of our weekly Periodicals—The Nashville and Southern Christian Advo cates —both ably conducted and meritorious publications ; the latter within our own bor der and the accredited organ of four Confer ences, whose ample sheet,valuable epistolary contributions,and sound editorials should se oure for its indefatigable editor the thanks of the Methodist public and bring back to his heart the cheering intelligence that its increased circulation through the kindly efforts of your body and those of the sister District Conferences havo borne him and his enterprise through the surrounding breakers and given him an open sea (or the remainder of his editorial career. The S. 8. Visitor urges its claim! through the thousand infant voices from the flourishing Sabbath Schools under our supervision, and “Burke’s Weekly,’’ though a private enter prise, is a valuable adjunct in strewing the path of youth with tbe lovely flowers and luscious fruit of Christian knowledge suited to the tastes and capacities of the young, and thus winning them on to higher attain ments. The colored people were not neglected, (and Judge J. J. Floyd, Chairman of the (Committee appointed to report on our rela tions to them, presented, in substance, the following report: To the white people of the South, under of the temporal and Hiring lyiifi l mainly depends. Tne poucy 01 rsortnern emissaries can end only in evil to Both races. The plans adopted by the General and An nual Conferences are cordially recommended to our people, and the kindly relations ex isting between ourselves and those who have been as members of our households is cor dially commended. TJie following resolu tion was proposed and unanimously adopt ed : Resolved, That our ministers in charge of circuits or stations be requested to cultivate as far as possible, a spirit of reciprocal kind ness between the races, and that in pursu ance of the plan suggested by uur church authorities their laokof spiritual instruction be supplied either by preaching or Sunday School instruction, or both, and such other helps as to them in each particular ease may seem proper. Col. G. N. Lester, Chairman of the Com mittee on Temperance, after alluding to the increase of dram drinking among members of the church in some localities, and of the great evil of this sinful practice, proposed the following resolutions which were adopt ed without opposition by a rising vote : Resolved, Ist. That it is the decided and unanimous opinion of this meeting that the manufacture, sale and use of spirituous liq uors as a beverage, in any form, are moral wrongs that ought not to be winked at or tolerated by the Church. Resolved, 2d. That in our judgment it is an inexcusable wrong for a member of the Christian Church to make sale of his fruit or grain to another, when it is the known purpose of the purchaser to convert the same into ardent spirits to be used as a beverage. Resolved, 3 d. That we favor all well-reg ulated organizations that have for their ob ject the restraining of men from drunken ness and intemperance. Resolved, 4th. That we request the preachers of this District to call special at tention to this action of this meeting. A report, full of interest, was presented by the Committee on Church Extension through its Chairman, Rev. F. A. Kimbell. They urged no organization of new circuits in the bounds of the District, bnt the over hauling of the churches already organized, the judicious enforcement of discipline and the stimulating of the membership to the active performance of duty. To this, they added, “We need no modifications of our creed, we require no changes in our govern ernment to give efficiency to our Church in spreading Scriptural Holiness through these lauds. The observance of our rules as they are, the preaching of Christ and Him cruci fied, with the simplicity and zeal of our il lustrious fathers, will insure to us success in winning souls to Christ and in building up the Church unprecedented evert id their day. It is urged not to organize too many churches, but to have preaohing, class and prayer meetings at private houses remote from the church, and that all tho members of the Church gird on the whole armor of God and go forth to active service in the vineyard of the Lord. Col. G. N. Lester, in behalf of tho Com mittee on Finance urged the separation of the ministry from all secular pursuits, and to an entire consecration to the great work of establishing and building up the cause of Christ in the world. That this may be done; our people are invited To come up as a unit to the heaven-appointed work of granting a generous support to the Gospel in all its departments. It was resolved to adopt tho “assessment plan” in order to meet the demands of the Church. Prof. G. W. W. Stone reported in behalf of the Committee on Edueation. He re ferred to the great importance of religious education,and spoke of the mental culture of the fathers of our Churoh. It was urged that those young men among us who feel called to the ministry, be aided in the ac quirement of such an edueation as will fit them for greater future usefulness. Emory College and the Wesleyan Femalo College were cordially recommended to the Knage of our people, and the plans of ip Pierce for the endowment of these two institutions heartily endorsed. By resolution, the meeting pledged the District to educate a candidate for the min istry at Emory College and appointed the P. E. agent to collect the funds. The following were elected delegates to the Annual Conference : Rev. J. E. God frey, G. N Lester, Jos. Baxter, J. J. Floyd. Alternates —Rev. V. E. Mangot, J. F. Lindley, J. T. Glower and V. N. Tommey. Next District Meeting to be held atLaw renocville. Athens District-meeting,Union Point. This meeting was held at Union Point, beginning on the afternoon of July 30, and closing on Monday morning, Aug. 3. Bishop Andrew was present, blessing with his counsels, and he presided until the second day, when Bishop Pierce arrived, and took the Chair for the remaining days of the session. The P. E., nearly all the traveling, and many local preaohers were present, together with a large lay delega tion—say about sixty in number. Among the visiting brethren were Rev. Dr. Means, Rev. J. 0. A. Clark, and Rev. Thos. F. Pierce. They participated in the proceed ings of the meeting, and added interest to the occasion. The old plan of appointing committees, and assigning to eaoh a distinct subject upon which to report, was adopted, and the following were made the subjects, viz : 1. State of the Churoh. 2. Sunday schools. 3. Finance. 4. Education. 5 Missions. 6. Periodicals and Books. 7. Organization of Circuits. 8. Parsonages. The statements made by the pastors on the religious condition of their respective charges, were, for the most part, encourag ing. But there are evils in the Church which we earnestly deplore, and one of these is the neglect of family religion. On this point the Committee, through the Chair man, Rev. H. 11. Parks, say: “Your Committee arc pained with the fact that there are so many of the hoads of families who negleot the duty of family prayer. We are of opinion that this is a vital defect in Christian character, and must, if persisted in, operate prejudicially to the piety of their ohildren, and militate with the true interests of our beloved Meth odism, aud, what is more to bo deprecated, with tho prosperity of the cause of our holy Christianity throughout the land. “Wc think it would be diffioult to over estimate the importance of this duty ; and would recommend that the pastors in each charge inquire of the brethren everywhere, Do you pray in your families '! and in case they do not, that they urge upon them strenuously the inauguration thereof at once; and that they preaoh upon this subject spe cifically at all their appointments, and never oeasc their efforts until the evil has been arrested.” Hero is another evil. The manufacture, drinking and sale of spirituous liquors have crept into the Church of Jesus Christ. On this topic the same committee resolved : “We would speak In no equivocal terms of the habit of dram drinking, manufactur ing or vending of ardent spirits, and would urge upon our brethren that they preach against these iniquitous practices, and that our lay brethren give us tlieir hearty sup port and co-operation in ridding the Church of these abominations'” Again: “We would recommend the same course in regard to.dancing, theatres, etc., reinind |*T . . 'W-ltd’etft "f fl l TM Tl’ll'" 1 ’ t ll “.y voluntarily made when they joinca the Church.” This, report, after recommending “the mild, but ultimately effectual enforcement of the Discipline of the Church,’’ and that “we serve the colored people wherever they aro willing that we should,’’ as best for them, concludes thus “Somehow, wo feel that a brighter and more glorious day is soon to dawn upon the Church in this stricken land. We arc pass ing through the fires now, but if wo will pray and work, and work and pray, we hope soon to realise such an outpouring of the Spirit of God as has not been witnessed in this country for many a long year.” Dr. Wm. King, of Athens, road a very interesting report from the 8. S. committee, which expressed great gratification at the decided revival in the S. S. cause through out the District. To provide teachers, the committee recommends “the selection from the older scholars such as may be educated as teachers.” “Place them under the charge of the preacher, or the best man intellectu ally and spiritually in the charge. Until this can be accomplished, select only such for teachers as arc Christians.’’ “Let the superintendent and teachers determine to devote at least one-fourth of an hour on each Sabbath morning to fervent secret prayer that God would bicss their labors of that day.” The report closes by recommending the regular instruction of the children in siDging. The committee of lay brethren on Finance reported through Rufus W. Smith, Chair man : “It is the sense of this Committee, that the obligation upon the Church to sup port the minister is a debt. It is a debt that should take precedence over all other debts, inasmuch as spiritual things arc more important than temporal.’’ The committee submitted the following FINANCIAL PLAN. 1. Let the stewards at the 4th quarterly meeting appoint a day to meet, which day should be as soon as possible after the re turn of the preacher of the year past, from the Animal Conference. Let the preacher bring such information from the new min ister as will enable the stewards to make their assessments and the preliminary ar rangements for his reception. In ease the preacher of the year past does not return, let the new appointee give such information by letter. 2. At the first round of the preacher, let each steward read out the assessment made, and the amount apportioned to his church, and ask tho church for such help as he may need in dividing out to the individual mem bers. Let this assessment be made care fully, and submitted at the next meeting, by reading out each name and the amount attached, and by getting the assent or ob jection to the amount assessed. In ease of objection, let such abatement as may be made of the amount of tho objection be vol untarily assumed, or divided among other members by their consent. 3. Let the stewards, as far as possible, collect, monthly, all dues up to date, and report by reading out names of those who pay, with amount paid. 4. Let the stewards furnish the preacher, before he goes to Conference, with the amount assessed, and the amount paid by each and all the churches in his charge, and let it be placed in the Annual Confer ence Statistical Report, for future use at the Distriot meetings, if need bo. 5. Let the above plan, or a better, be perfected and adopted, and published by the Annual Conference, and recommended to all the churches of the Conferenoe, with the request that they confirm it through their delegates to the District-meeting. If ratified by the majority, let the Annual Conference request all the churches to ob serve it and regard it as binding, being the voice of the majority. Rev.W. R. Foote, Chairman of the Com mittee on Education, highly commended our institutions, especially Emory and Wes leyan Female Colleges. The report ap proves the endowment sohemes of both In stitutions, and invites subscribers. One resolution provides, “That we pro ceed to organize a society auxiliary to the N. Ga. Conference Educational Sooiety, in aocordanoe with the plan thereol.” Under this resolution, some thirty-two brethren organized the Auxiliary Sooiety, by electing L. D Carlton, President, and R. G. Carlton, Secretary and Treasurer. These officers, with Rev. J. M. Diokey, Thos. Murralt and J. M. Park, were ap pointed an executive committee, with full powers to carry out the purposes of tho So ciety. Dr. Means and Rev. J. O A. Clark ad dressed the meeting on tho claims and fa cilities of Emojyr College, and made a fine impression for the institution. This report concludes: “We deeply re gret the lack of interest in and devotion to Emory College, manifested by some of onr denomination, who, without any mitigating circumstances to justify such a course, ig nore their own worthy Institution, by pla cing their sons and wards in other colleges, whioh have no superiority over ours in any respeot, and, in many particular; , vastly in ferior, and that we will endeavor to persuade our people everywhere to bestow their pa tronage upon Emory.” Rev. D. J. My rick, Chairman of the Committee on Missions, closes his report with a resolution, “That wo, the members of this District Conference, will do all in our power, both by preoept and example, to further tho interests of our domestio and foreign missions, and also, to pay, as speed ily as possible, our part, as a Distriot, of tho missionary debt. Rev. 11. J. Harwell, Chairman of the Committee on Books and Periodicals, re commends tho increased oiroulation of tho Southern Christian Advooatc, and our other religious papers, and that our Conferences “devise ways and means” to sell our own books, and do all we possibly can towards relieving our publishing house. Rev. J. L. Pierce, Chairman of the Com mittee on Organization of Cirouits, recom mends “That tho Bishop, at the ensuing Annual Conferenoe, upon application from the proper quarter, oontraot tho largo cir cuits into four appointments,wherever prac ticable, and upon satisfactory assurance that they will be self-sustaining.’’ Thos. Murrah, Chairman of the Parson age Committee, recommends the appoint ment of a committee to solicit subscriptions for the purchaso of a district parsonage. Thos. Murrah, M. Stanley, R. W. Woot ten, were appointed the committee. Social Circle was chosen as tho place for holding the next District-meeting—Wash ington was chosen as the alternate. ltev. G. L. MoCleskey, W. B. Haygood, R. L. Foreman, J. B. Park, wero elected delegates to the Annual Confcrenoo. Rev. T. A. Harris, A. M. Colton, Dr. L. G. An derson, Y. L. G. Harris, were elected alter nates. Isaac Hall, of Greensboro, was elected Recording Secretory of the meeting. Tho preaching throughout the meeting was strong and impressivo, and we’ trust God will yet own and bless it in the con version of souls. J no, W. Heidt, See. Washington, Aug. 11, 1868. Mt. Hilliard Sunday-school Associa tion.—Celebrations The Mt. Hilliard (Cirouit) Sunday rr 2 .^-* —-u-i. iii Jon, -Caafssz: eneft, has under its control four Sunday schools ; and under its direction two cele brations have come off. Tho first was at Mt. Hilliard, Bullock county, Ala., July 17th. Othor schools in the country contig uous, besides those of the Association, had been invited; and at 10 o’clook the sohools met at the Academy and formed in proces sion, and inarched to the stand in a grove, arranged for tho ocoasion. There were about two hundred and fifty scholars in tho procession, and they looked like a little army, with their beautiful banners floating over them. After prayer by the Rev. J. C. Avent, the cxeroisos consisted in speeches and diav logues by the scholars of tho Mt. Hilliard Sunday-school, principally by the little girls, under the direotion of tho superin tendent, A. W. Hightower, enlivened at intervals by singing. After these closed, Col. R. H. Powell, of Union Springs, de livered an address abounding with noble, Christian sentiments, in commendation of the great Sabbath-school cause. Col. Pow ell is a man whose soul is filled with the kindliest feolings, and he takes the liveliest interest and pleasure in such occasions. He has enshrined himself in the hearts of pa rents and ohildren, by his eloquent and wholesome utterances. At tho close of his speech, dinner was served; and although there were as many as eight hundred per sons present, all were “fed,” and “twelve baskets” or more taken up of the fragments. Dinner over, the audience reassembled, and were addressed by Rev. Dr. C. A. King, of Greenville, Ala., showing the im portance of parents’ sustaining the Sunday school by their presence and labors. Dr. King uses bold, strong, stirring words, and makes many of the warmest and truest friends among the ohildren; and no ono will wonder at it, who heard his beautiful tribute to childhood on this ocoasion. After he closed, the Rev. J. W. Shores was called for and made a few remarks, when the exercises closed with the benediotion by Rev. J. W. Hightower. The second celebration was at Murphy’s Chapel, Pike oounty, Ala., August 14th. There were not so many Sunday-school scholars, or so large an audience in attend ance, as at the first celebration, but it wi s cerfSinly an interesting time. The exeroises were opened with prayer by Rev. L. E. Culver, of Troy, Ala. Then came speeches, dialogues and singing by the scholars of Murphy’s Chapel Sunday school, participated in by scholars and teachers, boys, girls, young men and maid ens, and all acquitted themselves handsome ly. The spoeckes of E. C. MoCaskill and L. Morgan, toaohers, although selected, showed that these young men fully appre ciate their positions and relations. Mr. VVm. J. May delivered an address which was admirable for its literary exoellenoe and moral tone. It was eloquently'uttered, and was full of the richest Christian sentiments. At the conclusion of his address, the audi ence was summoned to dinner, and it was truly inviting and bountiful. There was enough for each aud for all. After dinner the people came together again, and listened to an address from Wm. H. Parks, Esq., of Troy, Ala. The import ance and usefulness of Sabbath-schools wero advocated in a lurid and eonvineing speech. At the close of this speeoh, a call was made for Mr. Frank Penington, who is just home from Wake Forest College, N. C., and he came forward and made a short speeoh, rich with the beauties and graces of oratory, iu behalf of the ocoasion that had called the people together. Rev. J. W. Shores was also called for, and addressed the orowd, showing the neoessity of giving the most earnest attention to the intellectual and religious training of the rising genera tion. These celebrations have inspired a deep interest in the Sabbath-sohool cause in the bounds of the Mt. Hilliard Cirouit, and it is hoped that it will widen and extend. It is just to state that Messrs. J. P. Ogletree, J. H. Douglas, A. W. Hightower and J. E.H.MTERS, D.D.,EDITOR Whole Number 1717 W. W. Jackson, superintendents in the As sociation, have been indefatigable and zeal ous in pushing forward the Sunday-school interest. Respectfully submitted, by order of tho Association. J. August 21. Time Does It. Time has a wonderful power in taking the conceit out of persons. When a young man first emerges from the schools and en ters upon the career of life, it is painfully amusing to witness his self-sufficiency—ho would have all tho world to understand that he has “learned out’’—that he is master of all knowledge, and can unravel all myste ries. But as ho grows older, he grows wiser; he learns that he knows a great deal less than He supposed he did, and by the time ho reaches to threes'oore years, he is prepared to adopt as his own the senti ment of John Wesley: “When I was young I was sure of everything; in a sow years, having been mistaken a thousand times, I was not half as sure of most things as I was before. At present I am hardly sure of anything but what God has revealed to man.” What are You Doing? —“Go work to day in my vineyard," is God’s command, addressed to every son or daughter of His in the world. It i3 what he says to you, dear reader, this day. You may not think of this. You may look upon it as addressed to others, not to you. But it is addressed to you, and you must decide whether you will do it or not. What havo you beou do ing these many years past in tho Lord’s vineyard ? What aro you now doing ? What do you intend doing? Aro you working or loitering? If working, is it in God’s vineyard or your own? Aro you cultivating the tender grapes of righteous ness, or the sour grapes of sin ? Arc you ohasing, and capturing and destroying tho little foxes that spoil tho vines—building up the wall and gathering out the stones ? “Son, go work to-day in my vineyard.” It is not merely, go into my vineyard to sit, or stand, or lie down in tho shadow of the vines, nor to cat the choice grapes. This is all many are willing to do. But it is toor/eers that aro needed—-men and womon who are not afraid of soiling thoir hands, spoiling their comploxion, or straining Ihcir muscles. It is to day they are wanted. There is pressing and immediate need. The vines are suffering, the grapes aro go ing to loss. It is to-day you are wanted. There is nothing said about to morrow. This night you may be oalled to your re ward. This may bo your last day of work. You may die, and there is no work in thd grave. Then go now and work in God’s vineyard. Future Punishment. —Let tho fairest star be selocted, like a beauteous island ia the vast and shoreless ocean of the azure heavens, as the future home of the crimi nals from the earth, and let them possoss whatever they most love, and all that it is possible for God to bestow; lot thorn bo en dowed with undying bodies, and with minds which shall forever retain their intellectual powers; let no Saviour ever press His claims upon them, no God reveal Ilimself to them, no Sabbath ever dawn upon them, no saint ever live among them, no prayer ever be heard within their borders; but lot sooiety rosy of hatred to God, nnd with uttAr dstf ishness as its all-provailing and ettShnl pur- ’ pose; then, as sure as the law of righteous ness exists, on which rests the throne of God, and the government of the universe, a society so constituted must work out for itself a hell of solitary and bitter suffering, to which there is no limit except the capac ity of a finite nature! Alas! tho spirit that is without lovo to its God or to its neighbor, is already possessed by a power which must at last create for its own self government a worm that will never dio, and a fire that can nevermore ho quenched ! Dr. Norman McLeod. Always Lively. —A thorough “oircuit rider,’’ i. e., an itinerant, who docs his whole duty, remarked to us, that he did not give away nigh so muoh tobaooo on his rounds now as formerly—times were so hard—but gave away old Advooates and Sunday-school Visitors. “Only one side,” said he, “of an Advocate dies; the rest of it never dies.’’ Some time ago he handod a brother a paper of 1860, whioh he read with muoh interest until he saw the date. “Why, this is 1860!’’ “Yes, that’s so; bat now road it, and you’ll find its just as lively as ever—all but one page. I never/’ he continued, “tore up an Advocate. Common newspapers got stale, but the greater part of the reading of a re ligious paper will keep fresh for years<- I often wish for bundles of thorn to givo to the young people one meets along the road.’’ [Very few men under forty years of age have that much sense.] This brother be longs to the working parol of itinerants—a man that stirs around, and can make a fire as quiok as St. Paul at Molita.— St. Louis Advocate. Faith Working by Love— All true and lively faith begets love; and thus that heavenly light is the vehiole of heat. Aud as, by this means, true faith has a tendency to the practice of obedaanoe depends upon faith, and flows from it. All knowledge of mysteries is vain and of no value, unless it have influence upon tho affections, and thereby upon the whole conduct of life.— The luminaries of heaven arc placed on high ; but they are so placed that thoy may shine, and perform their periods, for the benefit of this earth.— Leighton. Who Knocks? —Oh! careless sinner, this is the Saviour whom wo have always been preaohing to you; this is tho Divine Redeemer whom you have always trodden under foot. You would think it a great thing if the king left his throne, and knocked at your door, and besought you to accept a little gold, but oh! how much greater a thing ia here. The King of kings has left his throne and died, the just for the unjust, and now knocks at your door. Careloss sinner, can you still resist ?—J/r --(Jheyne. The genuine purity, integrity and truth which our words and works ought to reveal, if we are the servants of Christ, will always secure the esteem and confidence of intelli gent people of tho world, although they may not themselves yet be converted. — Ap. Past, in Lange. Some may fancy the fire of prosperity to be designed rather for comfort than for trial—rather to refresh than to soarch us— but searoely anything more dearly demon strates the falseness or soundness of religion it is to graoe what fire is to gold. Endeavor always to remember that ouy are in the immediate presence of God, and strive to aot as you would if you saw tho Saviour standing by your side. Recollect that He is really there. The Christian who has put aside relig ion beoause ho is in worluly oompany, is like a man who to put off his shoes be cause he is walk*% among thorns.