Newspaper Page Text
158
S nt&crn Jbtacate.
M\(;OX, GEORGIA, OCT 1, 1869.’
The Collections for tho Conferences.
The sessions of our Conferences are
rapidly approaching, and it is time to re
mind our readers of the need of providing
ior those collections, which must be made
before they meet, and there paid over to
the various Hoards. At every Conference,
it is customary for these Boards to state
what the requirements of its work will
probably'be for the coming year, and toask
the church for the sum fixed. In none
of the Conferences are these assessments
so large, but that they can easily be met,
if only the members universally, will do
each his part. The largest per centage to
a member asked in either of them is $1.20
—or ten, cents a month, and he is poor in
deed, who cannot save out of a month’s
living enough to give that small amount
to the church for its general work. But,
judging from the experience of the past,
we fear that many will not take the
trouble, or exercise the self-denial to do
this little. But if every preacher will see
to it, that he briugs from his work, wheth
er paid by few or many, the proportion
per capita, that will bring his charge as a
whole up loth is assessment, then the work
will be done—and woli done. Oh ! that
the people, who have been so blessed this
year, would all exert themselves to sustain
the interests of the church. Let us have,
at least, one successful year in this de
partment, Who can excuse himself from
giving aid ?
In the South Carolina Conference, the
collections are ali consolidated, aud di
vided out upon a basis fixed at the time
the assessment is made. In the other
Conferences within our circulation, the
sums required are separately assessed, al
though some of tho preachers consolidate
tho collections, and divide them out, in
the proportion of the various claims. In
either case, the purposes for which the
collections are made are about the same
in all the Conferences, and are as follows:
For superannuated preachers and wid
ows and orphans of preachers. It can
hardly he necessary to enter a plea in be
half of this collection. It appeals to every
Christian sentiment in the membership.
They surely will not let the men who
have worn themselves down in the ser
vice of the church suffer in their invalid
old age. They will remember kindly tbe
widows and orphans of those, who have
laid down their lives in the work —after
devoting them in such way to the
church, as to make it impossible that they
should make provision for their families.
A few cents from every member of the
church will provide for them— and who
can close his heart or purse against their
clai ms ?
By the collections our Bishops are sup
ported ; and it is no credit to tiie church
in some Conferences, that they have
never yet met the small assessment on
them to pay these laborious men. For
they are such. We all know enough of
those of them who reside among us, to
know that they have had little rest from
toil and travel during the past year. And
thesame thing is true of the others. Their
minds ought to bo free from care for their
families, while they travel abroad to serve
tbe church. We trust that the Confer
ences in which this paper circulates may
never bo reproached, for coming short of
duty in this respect. It is not much that
is asked, and if each member will bear his
part of the debt, it can be easily paid.
The missionary collections are to be
finished up before the Conferences. Do
mestic missions now claim first attention.
The District-meetings in all the Confer
ences, perhaps, have suggested new and
destitute fields, hitherto unoccupied, and
have recommended that laborers be sent
into them. How can this be done, unless
church members furnish the means of
supporting them? They must help.
Preachers alouecanaotdo what the ehurch
requires, unless it is a co-worker with
them. And there is a vast responsibility
upon our church, with respect to the re
ligious teaching of the people, throughout
our vast country. It is safe to say, that if
Methodist itinerancy does not carry the
gospel into the destitute sections of the
land, they will not have it, for years to
come, if ever. And as citizens of the
sumo country—to say nothing of our du
ty to God—every Christian has an interest
that these sectious should have the gos
pel. The claims upon us for tlie support
of domestic missions cauuot be neglected,
and the church remain innocent. The
demand is not heavy, if all will do their
duty.
Then there is a Missionary Debt, that
lias been hanging over us for years. Let
the Conferences this year pay the assess
ment made on them, by the General Con
ference. It is small; but the debt is an
incubus, weighing us down—hindering
all our collections—let us be done with it.
The Foreign Mission work has its claims
on aii the Conferences ; but there is spec
ial reason for zeal in its behalf, on the
part of the Georgia Conferences. They
have one of their own number —a brother
beloved—with his family, in China. They
&re pledged to his support. Fidelity to
him, faithfulness to their own pledges, re
quire that ttiey should make an earnest
effort to bring to the sessions the small
sum assessed to sustain this Missionary.
Ten ceuts from each member will more
than meet that pledge. But how many
will fail to pay that sum, because,we have
not yet learned, as a church, to bring
every member up to this duty of support
ing the interests of the gospel. But let
every preacher bring this average from
his charge, and Allen will be supported.
In the South Carolina Conference, the
interests of Education are taken into the
aggregate collections—and Wofford Col
lege is thus laid upon the hearts of the
people. In the South Georgia and Flori
da Conferences collections are ordered to
help defray the expenses of a few young
men called to the ministry, whose litera
ry training is defective. Both Confer
ences are now giving aid to promising
young men, who in a little while will be
in the active work, with a larger capacity
for usefulness than if they had rushed,
with no mental training, into the itine
rancy. Other cases of the same character
are constantly presenting themselves, and
a pittance is asked from the church, at
large, to give them aid. No investment
it can make will briug a speedier and
larger return than that made in prepar
ing pious and intellectual young men, to
do all the work of evangelists. Who will
help?
These are the claims uow pressing upon
the church. To meet them, we have from
six to ten weeks for collections. There is
no time to spare. Money is not yet plenty,
but.itiscoming in. Members of thechurch
should take pains to provide for these col
lections. Every year has its duties, and
they cannot do this year’s work, next
year. Let them not think that it will be
enough to say, that hereafter they will do
something. Bet them, as they love the
Saviour, bestir themselves to pay the
preachers, who have served them this
year, and to send by them, the full assess
on their charges, [for the work of
they be not put to shame, by a
, deficiency.
will never be made, we
‘ preachers and members will
„ ~ '■ that if <■('' can be stimulated
yljlfeAl 1 aggregate will be great.
Ten cents a week from the members of
the church within the four Conferences of
which this paper is the organ would
bring an income to the church ot $560,000
—while the Conference assessments ag
gregate only about $75,000.
Does any body believe, that the Metho
dists in these four Conferences are not
able to pay tills sum aud never feel it?
Will it be done?
Who Wants the S. C. Advocato ?
For the money— s3.oo—in hand, the
Publishers propose to send the Advocate
from the time of receiving it till the Ist of
January 1871, Os course this does not
include subscriptions charged. If the
money cannot be sent by mail or express
before the sessions of tbe Conferences, it
can be sent then, and the credit will extend
from the time of receiving it, to Ist Janu
ary, 1871. Those whose subscriptions ex
pire between this time and January Ist,
1870, will have a credit extended to Ist
January 1871, if they will forward $3.00
promptly before their subscriptions ex
pire. oct lst-tf.
Missouri Conference. —Prof. Stark,
tbe Nashville Advocate says, left Cliilli
cothe, Sept. 18—The Missouri Conference
being in session, under the presidency of
Bishop Pierce, who, we are sorry to learn,
was quite sick, so as to have to leave the
chair on Saturday, and was unable to fill
his appointment to preach on Friday
night. The delegates to the General Con
ference are : Ministers—William M. Rush,
C. I. Vandeventer, W. M. Leftwich, B. H.
Spencer, A. Monroe; Reserves:—J. H
Pritchett, J. D. Vincil; Laymen—T. E.
Thompson, J. O. Swinney, D. K. Pittman,
Charles D. Epperson, James H. Birch;
Reserves :—Allen 11. Voories, James L.
Davis.
Delegates to the General Confer-,
ence from Tennessee Conference.—
Ministers—John B. McFerriu, A. L. P.
Green, John W. Hanner, Robert A.
Young, S. P. Whitten, R. P. Ransom, F.
E. Pitts, Adam S. Riggs. Reserves:
Thomas Maddin, Joseph B. West, John
F. Hughes. Laymen:—Hon. John F.
House, Hou. Wm. B. Wood, Maj. T. M.
N. Jones, William F Holder, Gen. Joseph
B. Palmer, Gen. George G. Dibrell, Col
Watson M. Cook, Col. J. W. Harris. Re
serves:—Col. A. 8. Colyar, Dr. M. C. Bald
ridge. W. L. J. Wilkes, Dr. J. J. Dement,
and T. B. Miles.
Marion Street Church, Columbia,
S. C. —With the continuance of services
every evening, says the Christian Neigh
bor, the religious iuterest in this charge
lias deepened and widened. The meeting
has continued for two weeks, and the con
gregation is larger and apparently un
wearied every night. Several have beeu
converted aud a few have been added to
the church. The work is genuine and it
is hoped tiiat it may still deepen in the
church and spread, like leaveu, still wider
in tiie community. It has been several
years since anything like a revivals lias
been seen in Columbia, and there is on that
account the more need and the greater joy
for the present refreshing.
The Rev. A. V. Mann, died of con
sumption at Bartow, Soutli Florida, Feb
ruary 4th, 1869. He was a physician, a
member of the church from childhood, a
consistent aud zealous local preacher, and
he died iu the triumphs of faith. Had the
obituary notice we have received come to
hand within the limited time, we tvould
have published it in full. As it is sent at
a very late date, to give information to
relatives in Georgia, wo adopt this plan of
meeting the request, rather than break an
inviolable rule, for any reason.
A Good Example.—The Rev. T. K.
Leonard sends $lO 25 for China Mission
from Mt. Pleasant Sunday-school, Gads
den circuit, Fla. Conference. This contri
bution of the children was made by them
selves —each oue pickiift; cotton enough
to enable them to pay tiie 23 cents asked
for from each scholar. These children
begin well. They are workiug for the
Lord, ami He will reward them.
No Camp-meeting at Old Church.—
We are requested, by the Rev. N. B. Ous
ley, to say, tiiat tbe proposed Camp-meet
ing at Old Church, Burke co., will not be
held. Tiie preachers are too busy in revi
vals to do that part of tbe preparatory
work, which would devolve upon them;
aud Hie drought is so great tiiat there is
no certaiuty of a supply of water, just at
that point.
Ga.—Dr. Pierce and
Prof. Bass have just returned from a
meeting at tiiis place, which is still pro
gressing under most favorable auspices,
They left Bros. Hinton, Sweet aud Mac-
Donell at work. We are glad to hear that
the rumors about the failing health of
Bro. MacD. are false, and that be never
was in better health.
A New Hymn Book.—Read the contri
bution on our first page from Dr. Deems.
Wo have reasou to expect a very excel
lent compilation of Sacred Songs from
him and Miss Cary. Preachers aud teach
ers may see from his article upon what
terms they can obtain the hook for them
selves.
Rev. N. Talley, says the Christian
Neighbor of 23d September, an houored
superannuate and tho oldest member of
tbe S. C. Conference, has been married
fifty years this day, and leaves the city on
a visit to kindred and friends in Georgia.
Illinois Conference—Delegates to
General Conference.—(Clerical) —M.
R. Jones, R. Smithson. Reserves —J. W.
Wescott, D T. Sherman. (Lay)—Dr. W.
B. Ballard, John Alsopp. Reserves —J.
M. Charlton, I. M. A. Drake.
The Letter of Bishop Audrew, pub
lished last week, was credited by tbe Edi
tor to the New Orleans Christian Advo
cate, but the credit was overlooked by tbe
compositor.
The Siege of Babylon, a Tragedy.
By tbe Author of “Afranius,” “The
Idumean,” etc. Hurd & Houghton,
N. Y.
From the pen of Rev. Prof. Leavitt,
who by bis former writings has achieved
commendable celebrity as a tragic writer
and poet.
Dr. William Smith’s Dictionary of
the Bible. Nos. 13—19. N. Y. Hurd
& Houghton.
We have often commended this work, as
its consecutive numbers have reached us.
No. 19 brings us to the article “New Testa
ment.” It is beautifully gotten up, and is
the unabridged edition of that Smith’s
Dictionary, which is so popular in the
South. The work will be published in
about 30 numbers, with many additions
to the original at 75 cents per Dumber.
The Galaxy, for October. Sheldon &
Cos., 49Saud 500 Broadway, N. Y. Frice
$4.00 a year. Two Illustrations.
This Monthly is deservedly popular
The contents of this number, are: Susan
Fielding, by Mrs. Edwards (continued);
The Real Louis Napoleon, by Justin Mc-
Carthy; A Journey in Northern China,
by Raphael Pumpelly; Little Bopeep, by
Anne M. Crane; Put Yourself iu His
Place, by Charles Reade (continued); Re
naissance, by T. M. Coau ; Why Thieves
Prosper, by Edward Crapsey ; Ten Years
in a Public Library, by Frank H. Nor
ton; In a Box, by Samuel Blotter; Shake
spearian Mares’ Nests, by Richard Grant
White; and the usual Editorial Miscel
lany.
Life and Times of William McKen
dree, Bishop of the Methodist Episco- '
pal Church. By Robert Paine, D. D., I
Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, Kouth. In two volumes. Voi.
I. Nashville, Tenn.: Southern Metho
dist Publishing House.
Our readers have already been apprised
of the publication of this volume of a
work, which has been looked for with
greatinterest. Very properly, BishopPaiue
was requested by our General Conference,
to write tbe life of Bishop McKendree,
aud Bishop Soule turned over to the au
thor ali Bishop Mclleudree’s papers, which
hail been bequeathed to him to be used at
discretion. Hence, the materials for the
Biography were ample, and they have
been judiciously used. The relations of
Bishop McKendree to early Methodism
aud the progress of the Church make this
book more than a biography of himself.
It is really a history of the formative pe
riod of our ecclesiastical system aud is,
therefore, of great value to all who wish
to know how God has led our Church by
providential guidance up from small be
ginnings until the little flame has become
a great fire in the land. Such books as
this ought to be read—will be read, by all
who feel that they belong to a Church in
whose history they have any interest.
It is an auspicious day for us, that we are
going back to the records our fathers left.
Oh, that the son3 may emulate them.
History of Methodism in Tennessee,
By John McKerriu, D.D. Vol. I. From
the Year 1783 to Hie Year 1804 Nash
ville: Soutbera Methodist Publishing
House.
On tbe first page will be found an ex
tended notice of this new work from the
pen of Dr. Summers. And we have just
received a copy ; and we find it another
valuable contribution to tbe history o
Methodism. It gives a graphic account
of the labors and suiferings of the early
itinerants, in planting tbe gospel in
tbe wilderness. It bears noble testimo
ny, too, to tbe service rendered tbe cause
of God, by the saintly men and women,
who were gathered into the church by
their labors, and became partakers of their
toils, and exemplars of the sanctifying
power of religion. Tbe narrative is rapid
aud easy, aud every page interesting.
Better reading wo cannot put into the
hands of our children, if we would have
them honor the Church of our .fathers,
than these two books gotten up in good
style at our own Publishing House. We
wish they may have a extensive sale.
They may be bad of J. W. Burke & Cos.,
as soon as a supply can reach them.
The Sunday Magazine: A Monthly of
Recreation aud Instruction. Profusely
Illustrated. Edited by Rev. Thomas
Guthrie, D.D. Price $3 50 per annum.
Single number 50 cents.
Messrs J. B. Lippincott & Cos., Phila
delphia, anuounce, that they will com
mence in October, the re-publication in
this country of this most popular Maga
zine. Its circulation iu England has
reached sometimes 140,000 copies a month.
The Publishers say : Theaim;of tbe Maga
zine is to combine recreation, in its truest
sense, with instruction ; as is thus happily
expressed by the Editor: “My purpose, in
one word, is to’adopt tbe best and most
varied means of calling off the minds
from secular subjects which necessity
forces upon it during the week; to awaken
from their torpor those feelings of grati
tude and adoration which tbe divine great
ness and goodness shojld excite ; aud to
make tlie regular return of Sunday as
healthful to society as tbe Bhowers which
soften, fertilize, aud beautify the earth,
bringing with them the influence of heav
en To make tile Magazine interest
ing to cultivated minds without being
unintelligible to men of ordinary educa
tion ; to be read by people of ail Christian
denominations; to be of no class, of no
sect, of no party, but to ali and
profitable to ail,—such is its aim.” The
character of its contents may be judged
of, when it is seen that the following seri
als are to form part of the reading mat
ter of the forthcoming volume; Sunday
on the Continent. By Thomas Guthrie,
D.D., Editor; Episodes iu an Obscure
Life—Being Experiences in the Tower
Hamlets. By a Curate ; St. Paul’s Com
panions. By John S. Howson, D.D.;
Our Lord’s Miracles. By George Macdon
ald, LL.I). ; Tbe Portrait of Charity, as
presented by St. Paul. By William Han
na, D.D.; Upward Glances. Recent Rev
elations of Astronomy. By Rev. Chas.
Pritchard ; How to Study the Old Te.-ta
metit. By Professor Lindsay-Alexander,
D.D. ; Tbe Struggle in Ferrara. A Story
of the Reformation iu Ita'y. By William
Gilbert. We expect that it will prove a
rich treat to tiie religious household.
The Amebic an Grocer.- A Semi-month
ly Journal. John Darby & Cos., 161 Wil
liam Street, N. Y. $2 00 per auuum.
Here ia a quarto of 16 pages, appears
tbe familiar name ot Prof. Darby. It is
published iu tbe interest of merohants,
The Prospectus says:
“Its publication is undertaken with an
assured confidence that a j >urnal meet
ing, so opportunely and ho fully as it is
calculated to do, the growing demaud for
an organ of communication between huy
ers aud sellers, between producers aud
consumers in tiie vast field to which it is
devoted, will win immediate way to popu
lar favor. Tbe journal is designed to
furnish the most important, tbe most re
cent and tiie most reliable commercial in
telligence from every part ot the world,
aud iu reference to every branch of the
Grocery Trade. Statistical information
bearing upon tbe trade will be compiled
from authentic sources. Correspondents
from the principal commercial centres
will Supply detailed reports of transac
tions re alive to the Grocery Business.
Accurate statements of the condition and
movements of tiie produce markets will
be furnished to tbe reader. The money
market, with its incessant fluctuations,
will be watched and chronicled by expert
reporters. Editorials will be given dis
cussing briefly and pithily all the current
topics which agitate the commercial mind
in ttieir bearings upon the Grocery Trade.
Articles will appear from scientific gen
tlemen presenting the results of recent
investigations and discoveries relative to
the most approved modes of growing and
preparing for market the leading produc
tions of the world. The houest dealer will
be protected, as far as possible, from the
fraudulent manipulations of dishonest and
unprincipled adulterators, by careful anal
ysis of articles for food aud home con
sumption. Tiie earnest and inquiring
young Grocer will be assisted by the de
partment of Notes aud Queries, to a full
understanding of his business. Impor
tant changes in the leading houses in
the trade, and such other information as
will be of interest and value will be duly
chrouicled.” We commend it tbe “pro
fession.”
Works of Charles Dickens. Globe
Edition: Illustrated by Designs by
Darlev & Gilbert. Hurd & Houghton.
New York.
This volume—two in one—contains Tbe
Uncommercial Traveler, Master Humph*
rey’s Clock, and New Christmas Stories.
We presume that this is tho last volume—
though it is tbe first we have received—of
a very beautiful edition of Dickens’s
Works, as it contains a General Index of
Characters and their Appearances, and
Familiar Sayings from the Author’s
Works —very useful to those who wish to
refer to the writings of that popular Au
thor.
Lippincott’s Magazine, for October
with three fine full-page engravings, has
come to hand. It contains “The Vicar of
Bullbampton,” by Anthony Trollope,
part IV. with two Illustrations; The
French Fever, by T. C. DeLeon ; Two
Names. A poem, by Frank Tburbur; Tbe
Lonely Ones: A Tale—lllustrated ; From
tbe German of Paul Heyse. What I saw
of tbe Suez Canal, by Edward B. Grubb ;
Beyond the Breakers : a Novel—Part X
SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE.
by Hon. Robert Dale Owen ; Dick Libby,
by Rev. George Jones; The Freedman
and His Future, by George Fitzhugh;
From a Garret: a Poem—by Edgar Faw
cett; Magdalena: a Novelette, by the
author of “Gold Elsie,” “Countess Gise
ia,” etc, (concluded;) The Democratic
Movement in France, by Karl Blind ; The
Pleasures of Poverty, by Miss M. p. Wells;
Our .Monthly Gossip, Literature of tbe
day. Yearly subscriptions, $4. Single
□ umber, 35 cts. Lippincott’s Magazine
and Sunday Magazine to one address, $6.50
per annum. Specimen number, with
Premium List, sent to any address on
ceipt of thirty five cents. Address k
J. B. Lippincott & Cos., Publishers, -
715 and 717 Market Rt., Philadelphia.
The October number of tbe ‘‘Riverside”
brings its readers back to the city. In
the September number we had Lamb
din’s picture of "Towu aud Country.”
Now we have Nast'samusing frontispiece,
illustrating -‘Street Music,”—a band of
German musicians, with various capaci
ties of wind and wind instruments. The
editor’s account of book-making is car
ried through the process of printing ; tbe
article is supplemented by one on “A Pa
per-mill.” Hans Andersen reappears with
a story, “What happened to the Thistle;”
the Hunting Sketches from South Africa
are coutiuued ; and there is, besides, an
account of “Grouse Shooting in Washing
ingtou Territory." The famous Little
Artists set up housekeeping, and their
experience is told by Anne Silveruaß-,
while they themselves give us pictures of
their housekeeping exploits. The num
ber, which lias eighteen separate articles,
ends witii enigmas, charades, and a page
of “Mother Goose” music. Published by.
Hurd and Houghton, New York.
a year.
Comspnititce.
Letter from the Country.
Our Excursion—lossy Creek—Grandfa
ther's Grave—Lumpkin Camp-meeting
and Dahlonega District-meeting—Gath
ering of the Clans—Our Christinas Evans
The Son oj Kish—The Children of the
Martyrs.
Mr. Editor .- Your co:respondent, wife
aud babies have just ret urned from a three
weeks’ excursion into the “hill country”
of Georgia—persuaded thereto by consid
erations hygienic, Methodistie and. above
all, religious. It was not connected with
the “Press Excursion”—of which may
there come much good and little harm
nor in tiie interest of “undeveloped min
eral resources," urgently needing editorial
inspection. We gratefully own ourselves
iudebted for the transportation to good
friends here at Shiloh. Those stout mules
—“Charley” and “Puss”—albeit they
“made baste” as Caesar enjoins—aud the
light, roomy rockaway were very gootr.
“after their kind,” and were all that could
be desired. Such traveling, at the rate
of twenty-five miles a day through a
beautiful country—with lunch at noon on
tbe roadside, by cool springs and under
spreading trees, witii a sharpened appe
tite for the hot coifee, “fried chicken”—
(we beloug to tlie succession ) fruits
aud other things, furnished hygienic ad
vantages of a high order. It being our
first holiday— not idle-day—since tbe last
school vacation, away back iu that
Spring-time when
‘‘Life went a-Maying
With Nature, Hope anU Poesy”—
we enjoyed it and gave God thanks.
Os those good brethren .and sisters at
Lawrenceville, at Gainesville, at Datilone
ga, at the Camp-meetings and along tbe
way who were so kind to us, forwarding
our journey and ministering good cheer,
we will always think gratefully, but they
—being readers of the Advocate—wouid
not take it kindly to see their names and
modest hospitalities paraded in print.
We spent three memorable days at Moil.
sy Creek in the full enjoymentof all those
blessings which accompanied a geuuine
Methodist camp-meeting. Messy Creek
is a familiar and aim' st a sacred name iu,
the annals of North Georgia Methodism.
The first camp meeting-ovas t?*kl in 1823*
Thousands have been converted at this
historic place. Except during a few years
tow’ard the close of the war and the first
years of anarchy that succeeded it, these
anuual feasts have not been interrupted.
When this camp ground was laid out,
Josiah Askew, Jesse Richardson. Thomas
Bird, Wiley Warwick, the elder Quiilians
and others, “whose namesare in the book
of life," were in their prime and, in all
tbis section of Georgia, leaders of the
Lord’s hosts. Tiie camp-ground was al
most entirely destroyed by fire Lear the
close of tiie war. Last year, chiefly
through tiie exertions aud entreaties of
brother Jarrelt, a zealous local preacher,
it was revived. Thirty three new tents
have been built with in the las*, sixty days.
During this last meeting, a very large and
well-behaved congregation waited con
stantly on the preaching of the word. A
large number were happily converted and
the church was greatly revived. There
was no “over-powering preacning”—l do
not remember that the “orthoepy was of
lexical propriety ;” but the preaching was
very earnest aud Scriptural, and God
owned and blessed it. There was preach
ing for the children, with notably good
results, iu which bufibonery was not mis
taken for gospel simplicity
On Monduy—taking our little boy witif
us—we went to the grave of my grand
father who sleeps iu tbe shadow of oue of
these beautiful little mountains, not more
than half a mile from the eauio-ground.
He moved to Habersham from Burke co.,
North Carolina, in 1823, reaching his
“clearing and cab n” the day before the
first camp-meeting commenced. Deposit
ing tiie heavier articles of the “household
stuft” in the cabin, he moved the day af
ter to his tent a: Mossy Creek. In all
this country he was a “standard bearer”
till 1845, when be “fell on sleep and was
gathered unto h’s fa’hers.” He was a
traveling preacher in 1787. and gave the
best years of his li e to the work of »n
itinerant. A beautiful cedar grows by the
side of his grave, and droops over the
simple granite tomb that marks the place.
The inscription is fast becoming illegible
—not so tbe inscription in tiie Lamb’s
Book on high. It is very brief, but it telis
of a warfare loDg waged and victoriously
accomplished.
“Rev. Josiah Askew died in peace,
May 30th, 1845,
In the 81st year of his age,
And 58th of his Ministry.”
From Mossy Creek our wav' lay through
Dahlonega aud .4 uraria, nee Nucholsvilie,
not “ Knucklesville ,” from frequent fisti-i
cuffs, as has been generally supposed—to*
the Lumpkin camp-meeting, in Dawson
county. Here Mr. Editor, was a gather
ing of all the Clans. From every valley
and mountain side in the District the peo
ple gathered to this great “Feast of Tab
ernacles.” It was camp meeting and dis
trict-meeting all in one, and it was won
derful to our eyes. In all sorts of tents,
they crowded together. Plank tents, iog
tents, cloth tents, all were full. Wagon
sheets, bed quilts and blankets stretched
over a few poles did excellent service for
hundreds of hungry or happy souls, that
came here to worship, in some cases,
camp fires were kindled under wide*
spreading trees, 'i he great “shed”—or
"arbor” as they call it—could not nearly
accommodate the people. Ali around it, as
far as a good voice could be heard, tbe
peop'e crowded to hear. Ladies wouid sit
and gentlemen stand in the sun through
a long discourse. There must have been
at least four thousand people on tbe
ground. The Sunday congregation was
supposed to be between two and three
thousand—hundreds upon hundreds not
going to the stand in despair of a place to
hear. By the way, there is some mistake
about Wesley aod Whitetield preaching
to twenty or thirty thousand people at a
time. No man could preach intelligibly
to ten times as large a congregation as as-,
sembled here on Saturday.
There was a goodly number of “visiting
brethren” —among them three Presiding
Elders. Bro. J. E. Godfrey preached on
tbe “mutual obligation of pastors and
people.” Hisßermon will be remembered
and do good. Sunday morning at 8
o’clock, the Presiding Elder of the Mari
etta District preached an incisive, telling
sermon upon the "responsibilities of bu*
man probation.” At 11 o’clock the Pre
siding Elder of the Rome District had
given him from above a dispensation of
great grace, while be preached from the
words—“ Simon, Son of Jonas, lovest thou
me?” There was preaching at 3 o’clock
on “parental responsibilities in the reli
gious education of children.” At night,
brother James D. Anthony—the Christ
mas Evans of our Conference —preached
from the text—“But as the days of Noe
were, so shall also the coming of the Sen
of man be ”
Power fell on ail them that heard.
There were hundreds at the altar, crying
out for mercy. About 10 o’clock that
night, Anthony found a crowd of carpless
youngsters, aud, mounting a bench, lie
preached another sermon ou, “Prepate to
meet thy God.” There way praying and
shouting, crying and singing tili daylight.
We had all the old signs. Strong men
fell down upon tiieir knees while the man
of God was preaching—there were groans
and strong cryings—shoutings that, woke
ail the sleeping echoes again—there were
penitents lying speechless, there were all
prevailing prayers'with mighty “ameas;”
there was siDging, free and hearty,
by multitudinous tongues, rising, fill
ing, swelling, rolling along a perfect
deluge of revival songs, that would have
drowned tiie tremors of any competing
organ, aud absolutely thrown a “quartette
choir” into hopeless convulsions. If you
wouid have a little side picture to show
how high the tide rose, then think of
brother Richard Harwell, tall as tbe Son
of Kisb, standing outside the “stand.” at
11 o’clock at night, by an improvised
altar, rejoicing over anew convert clap
ping bis hands, and singing.
“Religion is a fortune, and heaven is a
home”—The notes so slacatto pr<B 13 mo,
that it would tire the nimblest tougue to
keep pace with his jubilant chorus.
The District-meeting was interesting
and profitable. Rov. Wru. A. Simmons,
P. E., guided its deliberations. Some
measures were set on foot which will, if
successful, make anew era in North Geor
gia.
It is due to the P. E. of the Dahlonega
District, now winding up his third year
of devoted service, to say that he lias de
served well of his country and of his
church. Steadily, patiently, devotedly—
I think veiy nobly—he lias stood by tbe
ship He and the noble men of his Dis
trict have saved the day—saved their sec
tion from auarehy aud ruin.
As we caine away-, we passed by the
lowly grave of L. Q. Alien, who had done
faithfully his part iu this glorious but
""hard fought field. This good man’s grave
reminded me of another itinerant whoa
few weeks ago laid down his armor to
die, John R. Gaines. They say the wid
ows aud children of these men are in
need. What will we do for them this
winter? Let us do worthily, generously
for these children of martyrs.
Pardon my long letter —I seem now to
heir the singing and shouting of the
Lord’s hosts, and my heart is full of it.
For one, I pray that cauip-meetings may
be revived all over tiie laud.
Yours truly,
John Tryon.
Shiloh, Sept. ~th, 1569.
. Letter from Arkansas.
Mr. Editor —Procrastination Is indeed
the thief of time. Several months have
elapse I since my last communication to
the Advocate, but the delay has been
caused mainly by the literal filling up of
my time with other duties. The greater
part of the time “we labored night and
day” for tiie salvation of souls—“ God
working with us,” until there werea hun
dred or more souls converted and added to
the churches—ours receiving more than
all otiiers combined.
Truly, it was “the Lord’s doing,” and
was “marvelous in our eyes ” Old men
and little children, young men aud maid
ens, were among the happy number
brought into the fold of Christ. Someof
the most wicked men in the place were
converted, and now rejoice in tiie Jove of
God. Our class meetings are well attend
ed, and are times of refreshing, and there
is no lack of praying members at our regu
lar prayer meetings. The revival influ
ence has extended to the country, and
from the regions round about, we bear of
tbe conversion of souls.
Our District-meeting passed off pleas
antly, and not without profit. We had
reports showing an improved condition of
the church financially and spiritually.
We passed some resolutions, aud expect
to carry them out; we thanked God and
took courage for the future. Methodism
is advancing in tiie West; her cohorts are
drilling daily, and preparing for an un
compromising campaign against all man
ner of sin.
We need more local preachers, efficient
men who can preach and defend the doc
trines of our Church. One of the best
circuits in our Conference has no local
preacher, and all over tiie land there are
fields tiiat might bo cultivated with suc
cess by those who are unable to give ali
their time ro the work of tbe ministry.
Can’t you spare us a few, Mr. Editor, and
stir them up to come where they will find
good land, kind friends, and a people wil
ling to hear them preach ?
We need more itinerants too ; death has
been thinning our ranks and others are
disabled. Come, brethren, you who want
to enter a field white unto tne harvest,
come to Arkansas. We have a growing
Conference, an expanding church, and a
country of almost boundless resources.
Bishop Pierce will tell you a better tale of
Arkansas, if you will strike him when
he is at home and well rested.
We were disappointed of our anticipated
pleasure at haviug the Bishop with us
during the summer; but we are to be
compensated iu some sort by a visit from
him, while en route to our Conference iu
November. We hope tiie roads and stage
coaches will improve before he gets here,
and vve will offer him the additional pal
liative of a promised ride on the cars
through our portion of the State ere long,
if radical rule does not ruin us utterly.
Crops are fine in this State. Cotton has
been somewhat injured by asbort drought;
but the rain has come in time to do great
good. Corn is almost unsurpassed, l'he
average crop of this county will be from
twenty-five to thßty bushels per acre.
I noticed that my last communication
contained a statement concerning Bisiiop
Lay’s salary that elicited some remark
from a P. E. paper of Ga. It was not a
“lapsus penned" with myself. I copied
the figures from a secular paper of this
State and supposed that they emanated
from au Episcopal clergyman of my ac
quaintance.
Fall setsin beautifully and we are enter
ing upon the most delightful season of the
year in Arkausas. Yours truly,
Cadesman Pope.
Arkadelphia, Ark., Sept. 6, 1869.
That Eccentric Church.
Mr. Editor:— “John Tryon,” in one of
his letters to the Advocate, Jast spring,
gave an account of a church whose mem
bers were ‘o singular as to pay to pastor
and presiding elder, at their first quarter
ly meeting, their whole assessment for
the year.
As some of your readers may wish to
hear something more of this Church—
Shiloh—let me write a brief appeudix to
Bro. Tryon’s communication.
First, singularly enough, these peculiar
people have not starved, nor are likely to
do so, having made corn enough to supply
them for the next year, and, considering
the seasons, au excellent crop of cotton.
In all probability they will be able, next
spring, to folio .v their own good example.
Secondly, these brethreu closed, last
Wednesday, a protracted meeting, at
which twenty-two persons, we trust, were
savingly converted, fifteen joined the
church, and the original members were
brought by the Holy Spirit to a higher
style of Christian life.
Tbe congregation of which we speak
numbers about one hundred.
The meeting was carried on by tbe
church, mainly in the absence of the pas
tor, who was busy elsewhere in tbe great
wiiite harvest field. May the Lord, who
has done such great things for these, His
servauts, keep them humble, steadfast,
diligent and fruitful !
Yours fraternally,
Oxford, Ga. J. Lewis, Jr.
A Back-woods t?. S. Celebration.
Mr. Editor; —While the Sabbath school
cause is prospering throughout the coun
try, and celebrations have become com
mon and popular everywhere, we up here
iu the back-woods of Gwiuuett, away
from the lines of railroads, out of the
reach of Bishops aud Sunday-scbooi
agents, have not failed to catch the spirit
of the times. Our schools are more nu
merous, more permanent, anil more bene
ficially conducted than ever before. Now
and then we have a celebration for recre
ation and reinvigoration. Let us here
give a brief accountof the Sunday-school
celebration at Mt. Carmel, a Methodist
Church, about 15 miles west of Lawrence
ville, on the Chattahoochee, on last Thur
sday. The school thereof 120 pupils, under
the superintendence of Bro. George H.
Jones, with the school from Little River,
Cherokee co., under the Rev. Mr. Pucket.
met at the Church and marched iu proces
sion to an arbor near by, where all were
comfortably seated. After a beautiful song
from tbe children, which was soul cheer
ing to the audience, which was vast in
number, Rev. B. J. Johnson opened with
religious service. After baviDg another
song, Bro. Pucket of Cherokee, delivered
an address, He was animated with his
theme, and held his large audience still as
the in a calm, while he poured forth
sound logic, good advice, wit, sarcasm and
amusing and instructive anecdotes, in a
style which could not fail to get attention.
After oilier songs, and an address from a
pupil, all marched to tables already groan
ing iiuder a weight of rich refreshments.
After all had partaken bountifully of the
rich repast, tbe audience re-assembied and
were addressed by Rev. Mr. Pucket, in an
eloquent sermon from “Remember Lot’s
wife.” Tiius tbe celebration closed. It
was a complete success. Too much praise
cannot be bestowed ou Bro. Cl. H. Jones,
for that energy, skill, aud liberality with
which lie has developed one of the finest
Sabbath schools in the Conference, in a
locality where there was never one be*
fore. OB3ERVER.
Sept. oth, 1569.
The Rev. Hugh A. C. Walker.
Mr. Editor :—We have seen with inex
pressible delight tbe notice in your issue
of tbe 17th Sept., of the transfer of the
Rev. H. A. C. Walker to the South Caro
lina Conference. It is impossible, in the
very nature of things, that a man like
Brother Walker should be appreciated
among strangers, however kindly disposed
they might be towards him and however
pleased with his ministry, as he would be
by us at home. He has beeu ours from
his Irish boyhood—has grown up aud
matured arnoug us, and his modest, retir
ing manner which would make it years
for him to be appreciated by straugers, has
with his well balanced judgment, his zeal,
j his untiring devotion to the Church, his
i admirable social qualities, endeared him
to the Soutli Carolina Conference, aud
placed him iu tbe front rauk as one of its
leaders, and made his departure very grie
vous to us.
Yet none of us could say “nay,” when
he proposed to go to the Iveuiucky Con
ference; for in his removal lie proposed a
relief for us as he did for himself. We
could only pray God’s blessing tftjott him
and let him go. Ist. Preachers and peo
ple were in the utmost destitution, scarce
ly able to get bread. 2,J. Our immense
negro population, with political power
thrown suddenly into their hands, while
so many of our whites were disfranchised,
promised any tiling else but good. 3d.
About thirty missionaries among our
blacks, with their fields of labor destroy
ed, were thrown upon the Conference for
other work, and seemed to crowd us be
yond measure. Ail seemed to speak im
peratively, that someof us must fiud work
elsewhere.
Now, how changed ! The energy of our
people, under the blessing of God, lias
driven want away, and they have enough.
Our preachers are about as well supported
as they ate in other Conferences. Our
condition politically, is improving every
day, aud we are looking hopefully to the
future. Deatti and removals have taken
many of our brightest ministerial lights
from tiie Conference, and witii saddened
hearts we exclaim, “Tiie harvest truly is
great, but tbe laborers are few. An increase
of thirty preachers will not supply tiie
demand. Every witere the cry is iteard
for tbe divisions of circuits, aud the sup
ply of new stations—really the only way
in which we can fully develop Methodism
in <>ur land.
We hope brother Walker will he at our
next Conference, held in Cheraw, aud wt
would be glad to see with him a half doz
en young Kentucky preachers. We Will
give him tiie warm greetings of our hands
and hearts, and give to them a South Caro
lina welcome. Yours, etc., H.
Waynesboro ct., So. Ga. Conference.
We have just closed a meeting at Mt.
Zion, one of tiie churches on my clia,ge,
which resulted iu ( lie addition of eighteen
to the church. I have never seen a more
general interest in a meeting than there
was in this. The congregations were large
and attentive, all vied with each other,
seemingly, to dosomething to forward the
general interest of the meeting. During
the last days, it took tiie type of a camp
meeting, as we preached at 11 o’clock and
then had dinner, which was spread upon
a long table, where all were invited to
partake—then preaching again at 3
o'clock ; and then supper was served up
as was tiie dinner, all partaking; and then
night service. I can testify to tbe work
ing of this plan, and can recommend it,
as being superior to any other 1 have ever
seen adopted. I must add however, that
a better church to inaugurate such a plan
aud execute it, so as to recommend it, is
not found in Georgia, as all brethren will
testify who know the material of this
church. t
This closes up the ninth week of the
present summer’s campaign. I have spent
in Waynesboro six days out of tbe sixty
three. Iu tiie meetings which I have at
tended, there have been over oue hundred
and ninety members added to the church,
and I can say of my worthy co-laborer.
Rev. 8. S. Sweet, he looks as fresh as when
he began tiie campaign, and has won for
himself many very warm friends, and in
creased fame as an able aud efficient min
ister of the gospel. He rendered faithful
service at Mt. Zion, preaching daily with
great acceptability aud power. Rev.
Richard Scruggs, although at his home
church, rendered effective service, preach
ing with great earnestness, aud good re
sults following. Bro. McNorii of the Bap
tist Church, was with us two days, aud
did good service. We stood, side by side,
in the altar—the doors of each church be
ing opened. A good feeling existed be
tween the churches. May no discord ever
enter to mar it. Four weeks, hard labor
yet, and we close up the year. Circum
stances prevent our having a camp meet
ing at Old Church. N. B. Ousley.
Waynesboro, Sept. 20, 1869.
Flint River Mission, South Ga. Con
ference.
Mr. Editor: I began a meeting at tbe
Shelter , on tbe 12th inst., and closed or.
tbe 17th. Average attendance, say fifty,
made upof sinners, backsliders and Chris
tians. Service at II aud 3 o’clock ; be
tween these hours, the people sat down
upon tiie grass and ate their lunch.
Had a gracious time, tiie first day ; and
tiie glorious influence deepened and wi
dened till the coldest were warmed, aud
tbe hardest softened. Three leading young
men (bard cases) were smitten to the
earth, and are now rejoicing in hope of
the glory of God. Others have learned
to believe and rejoice, aud on the fifth day
of the meeting, the revival power had in
creased to a flood. Forty-one years, (says
au old brother) have I been a Methodist,
aud never saw the like before. An old
lady, (said to be about one hundred years
old) came tottering towards me, support
ed by her daughter. Surely, I will not
soon forget tiie look of despair, in the aged
countenance, as she gave me her band,
and said she had lived so long, and so
wickedly; aud now wanted to join tbe
church, and try to get ready to die. She
will be baptized and received into tbe
church 2d Sabbath in October, at tbe
“Shelter,” eighteen miles from Albany,
ou the Troupvilie (Quitman) road.
Yours in Christ,
H. Puckett, P. C.
September 20 lh, 1869.
Newton ct., S. «J. Conference.
Mr. Editor:— The Lord is still with us
in his converting power. In the iatter
part of August, with the aid of Bros.
Sherrill, L. E , and Heavinor exhorter, I
hclda four days meeting atPisgalt Church,
in which time 21 were converted and 14
joined <lie church. Our camp meeting at
Balls Creek, embraced the rtrA Sunday iu
this month. Bros. G. W. Ivy, P. L. Har
mon, C. E. Land and Dr. Sherrill, were
with us, and preached iu power and dem
onstration of the spirit. I have never
seen such a display of divine power ou
any occasion.
The good work begaD on tbe first night
of tiie meeting, anil increased in power
to its close; and 150 were converted and
73 joined the church. Mauy who had
been iu tbe church for years without reli
gion were converted aud a largo number
of backsliders reclaimed.
Some mtinbersof other churchei were
converted und rejoiced with us in prospect
of getting to heaven. Our chuich has
beeu instrumental iu a large measure in
building up other churches, for which we
should be loved and treated with Chris
tian kindness, instead of being persecuted
as is the case in this section of country iu
no small degree. Our church has improv
ed at least 100 percent on this circuit tile
present year. We ask an iuterest in the
prayers of the whole church.
Sept. 11, 1869. D. May.
Jackson Ct., N. Ga., Cons., —The Rev.
D. iNolan writes Sept. 14th: The Lord has
wonderfully revived his work at New
Hope We commenced our 3d quarterly
meeting on the Ist Saturday in Sept, con
tinued nine days and received forty-four
members into the church. We commence
again to-morrow night. The member
ship was generally revived and the cause
of God greatly strengthened in the com
munity. Brother Branham preached for
us four days in succession and then
Brother Harris came and helped us three
days. Brother Smith, (my colleague) waß
with me nearly all the time.
Hayneville ct., S. Ga Conference.
Mr. Editor: God lias honored the faith
and answered the prayers of his people
on tiiis circuit iu showers of gospel bles
sings. We began at Sandy Run, July
17th. We saw the grace of God in the
conversion of souls, aud tbe joy of heart
renewing love, which prepares for "joys
which are forevermore.” The happy
participants are realizing the designs of
divine grace by ‘ cleaving unto the Lord
with purpose of heart.” Will not the
“good news” from Sandy Run, prove
grateful tidings? That dedicatory sermon
heard withsuch thrilling emotion in May.
still speaks for Jesus and tiie church aud
contributed much to unseal tiie fountain. \
which has gushed forth into the light and |
made “every nlant look gay and green.”
At Hayneville, heaven vouchsafed such
manifestations of divine blessings and
power, as placed tiiat revival season among
the most distinguished periods and sweet
est memories of our lives. One beautiful
feature in this meeting was that our Bap
tist brethren worked with us, hand in
hand, shoulder to shouid<-r. Bros. B. \V. i
Browne, J. R. Rutherford and others of,
tho Baptist, Church in Hayneville, noble,
large-hearted Christians, rendered us val- j
uable assistance, and bound us to them
selves with cords of love. Bro. Robison ;
of Hawkiu-ville gave us valuable assis- i
tance. The prayers of mauy grateful
hearts follow that devoted, useful, and
excellent young minister, in bis “works :
of faith, aud labors of love.” Bto. Jewett j
F. E., iu passing through, preached two !
sermons of resistless logic, overwhelming j
in appeal, sweeping in application. Notii- i
ing but the roil of future ages will devel
ops results.
Mt. Carmel and Houston Factory re
joiced in like precious seasons of reviv il
power ; and. best of all, tiie work lias not
ceased. Godjis iu the midst of them ; in
Sunday-school, and prayer-meetings, sin- j
ners are convicted aud converted and his j
people blessed. Friday night August 27th, j
the first service of our 3d quarterlv Con i
ference. we met at Henderson, and had a !
delighlfui and profitable meeting which
continued eight days. We were favored
with able ministers, who preached a* if
clothed with power from on high. Rev.
C. R. Jewett, P. E., Rev. Waller Knox,
and Rev. E. H McGebee. After the
sermon by Presiding Elder, on Sunday,
more titan one, driven to the wall, con
fessed they were defenceless, and excuso
less, and that it was time for them to
yield—and they did, aud gave their hearts
to God. Bro. Knox whom to know is to
love, whom to hear is to think, and ad
mire, preached several sermons of such
clearness, force, and withal such melting
pathos, as to subdue and sway every
heart. The impressions made will not he
erased, even when tiie memory of the oc
casion has been obliterated, E. il. Mo-
Geltee had his heart stirred within him
Henderson is the home of his youth, and
early friends, and several of those joined
us on our way to heaven Someone
thanked him for a certain sermon. He
replied, “I did my best.” We and > not
doubt it. All were satisfied-delighted. His
venerable father, long and sorely afflict
ed, was permitted to be with us four days
Who does not love good Dr. McGebee?
He has preached twenty-seven years
within the bounds of the Hayneville cir
cuit, and were he able to fill the pulpit,
could command a larger Congregation b-re
than any man in Georgia. When tho
night of affliction is spent, he will have
stars in the crown of his rejoicing in the
dav of eternity.
We closed these series of meetings at
Hickory Grove, where we saw several
clear conversions, aud the hearts of many
rejoiced that God had revived them again.
Rev. ,T. Rufus Felder aided us iu nearly
all these meetings, with his usual effi ;•
iency and power. Very fortunate is (lie
itinerant minister, who has Bro. Felder
for his coadjutor. His gifted and noble
son, Bro. H. R. Felder was licensed to
preaclt at our last quarterly Conference
together with Bro. Titos. Lane, “a good
man, full of faith and the Holy Ghost.”
We sum up 66 accessions—more Ilian
tiiat number of conversions—mauy family
altars reared and re-reared—additional
prayer meetings, and young men’s prayer
meetings established. “The best of ai!
God is with us.” Yours, in the Gospel.
W. W. Stewart.
Greenvilla, S. 0., District Mooting
Mr. Editor; I have been requested 'o
lay before your readers, a brief sketch of
tiie iafesession of the Greenville District
meeting, held at Anderson, S. C.
Its exercises begun with au introducto
ry sermon by Rev. J. M. Carlisle, Wednes
day night, Sept. 15th, aud tho business
session closed the ensuing Saturday arter
noon.
Rev. A. B. Stephens presided one day,
until tho arrival of Bishop Wightman,
whose administration in the chair gave
satisfaction to all. Your correspondent
was made secretary. Committees were
appointed on the Slate of tiie Church, Ed
ucation, Church Literature. Fiuance and
Church Property, and Sunday-schools,
who made excellent reports, but they are
too voluminous to lay before your read
ers at this time. We give a'few f,cts
gleaned from these reports.
There has been a precious revival inter
est throughout the District the current
year. Tiie membership lets been increase !
ten per cent, and some of the preachers in
charge could not leave their work on ac
count of gracious awaken!tigs iu their
midst. One preacher had to be excused
from his committee, sick—cause, over
work in revival. There have been many
happily converted to God and many
strengthened and edified. But th«re is
much to deplore. A great lack of spiritu
ality in many churches—prayer meetings
neglected, finances drooping, class meet
ings, a fossil of the past. The Southern,
Christian Advocate and other religious'
papers taken by few, and but little pat
ronage to our publishing house at Nash
ville.
The meeting pledged itself to renewed
zeal and activity in these matters. Im
provement has begun, is going on, and
the impression is riveted on every mind,
that Methodism is not only alive in this
hill-country, but developing in purity ami
strength.
Many of tiie brethren came to the Dis
trict-meeting with the fire aglow in their
hearts, fresh from the triumphs of vie*
tory in their individual neighborhoods,
and, under the evangelical preaching by
the Bishop and his fellow-laborers aided
by tiie faithful supplication of the church,
a gracious revival of religion begun, anti
is still progressing, in the church at An
derson. May the work go on, and be a
lasting blessing to that generous and hos
pitable people.
The Committee on Education report,
recommending Wofford College and the
Spartanburg Female College, as eminent
ly worthy of patrorige, and the Meeting
pledged itself to try to support oneyoutig
mail studying for tbe ministry at Wof*
fold College.
Our Sunday-school Agent Rev. Samuel
Leard, was present and urged tbe claims
of that worthy cause. Rev. Wm. Martin
from Washington street Columbia, made
au appeal in behalf of “tiie burntchurcb”
in the capital of the State, and received a
liberal contribution.
Rev. A. H. Lester, Rev. Samuel B.
Jones, and our venerable father Derrick
were visiting brethren whose words of
cheer and counsels in the various discus
sions and services of the occasion, will not
soon be forgotten.
The love-feast on Sunday afterooon was
a precious time. Father Derrick led the
services, spoke of tiie religion of this up
country, a half a century ago—reviewed
his life of long service in God’s cause and,
with thrilling words, bade his younger
brethren God speed in the glorious worn
of salvation.
Tbe delegates elect to the ensuing An
nual Conference are Rev. L. B. Mauliiiu,
R. F. Simpson, S. Browne and R. S. Hill;
Reserves—Reid, Gambrell, Wm. Lester,
James Zachary and Larkin Newton.
The next Greenville District-meeting is
to beheld at Willianaston, S. C.
Geo. F. Round, Sec.
Uuionvilie and Fair Forest So. Ca.
Conference.
Mr. Editor:— Ou last Friday we closed
a gracious meetiug at Sardis, a church con
nected with Unionville Station, S. C. Con
ference. Twenty were added to the church,
a large number converted, and the whole
church quickened into new life. The ma
jority of those who joined were heads of
prominent families iu that community.
To my mind it is a significant fact that
tbe children manifested so little interest
iu the meeting. Iu this community, tbe
opposition to infant baptism lias been so
strong that tbe opposers have gone to the
extreme iu tenching that children have
no part or lot in the church until their
reason and judgment are sufficiently ma
tured to enable them to make a discrim
inating choice for themselves. The chil
dren are acting upon that teaching.
During tbe latter part of this meeting
we were assisted by Revs. W. D. Lee and
J. W. Mcßoy. While with us, they made
full proof of their ministry, aud in leav
ing, left a blessing behind them. Bro.
"Vol. xxxii. !N
Mcßoy is in feeble health, but is
up to the measure of bis strength. Bro.
Lee is nominally “local,” but is supply
ing Belmoutciicuit. Would tiiat all such
men could see their way clear to devote
themselves to the regular work of the
ministry. The church needs them ; her
necessity appeals to them to come to her
Del p
At our last Conference our effective
force was sadly deficient, and I have rea
son to believe that it will be more deficient
still at our next.
At our last Conference two fields of la*
bor were assigned to me —Uuionvilie sta
tion, and Fair Forest circuit. Up to date
twenty-four members have been added to
one. and nine to the other. We thank
God, and take courage.
A. J. Stciies.
Reody River Ct., S. C. Conference.
Mr. Editor:— This circuit, which was
formerly apartef old Laurens circuit, was
formed about two years ago. It embraces
a narrow wedge-shaped tract of country,
lying between tbe Reedy and Saluda
rivers, about 25 miles long, and from one
to ten miles wide. It is a high, healthy
section of country, witii pure air, good
water, aud a thrifty and improving popu*
iatiou. Iu litis territory we have five
churches four of them well built and
neatly finished. Our societies are not
large—averaging about 50 members—but
we have in them some who are bright and
shining lights, in whose lives the genu*
iue fruits of piety are daily manitested.
In August we held a largely attended
mid inieiesiing camp-meeting at Mt.
Bethel, which was in every respect a deci
ded success. Our people entered into it
with a zeal aud relish which showed not
only a willingness to incur the expeuse aud
run* the risk, (if leaving home to tent at
camo meeting tie a risk,) hut an earnest
desire to revive these time-honored “Feasts
of Tabernacles,” and enjoying rural wor
ship as in days of yore. The life and ani
mation seen around the camp-ground for
a length of time before tho meeting, as
tent after tent rose along the lino of the__
encampment presenting its new board
roof through the green foliage, was evi
dence enough that "the people had a mind
to work.” Every tent, hut one, was oc
cupied and in order, before tiie trumpet
sounded fm' tiie first service.
I ite meeting progressed pleasantly, aud
with increasing interest to its close. Ou
c-at unlay and Sunday tlie congregations
were very large. Though tiie crowd was
immense, yet perfect order prevailed, and
after careful inquire I have heeu unable
to hear of the least disturbance about the
grounds, from the opening service on
Wtdnesday night to the close on Monday
at noon.
We continued the meeting fora week
after thee mp-meeting closed. Tiie results
are an addition to the church of 30 whites;
and a life current ot vitality and spiritu
al power pulsating through tho entire
church.
One other point.—l have made careful
inquiry through the circuit, and I have
found tiiat the tent-holders, without an
exception, on returning to tiieir homes,
found everything safe aud iu order there.
I have mentioned the above facts, for lit is
reason. The results of our camp meeting
last year— held while the country was in
a ferment of political excitement—and the
happy consequences flowing from it this..
y.-ar . demonstrate clearly, I think, that
camp-meetings may tie hold now witii as
great safety aud as much profit, as ever
before in tiie history of tiie church.
May the day never come, when the
camp-meeting with its rustic simplicity,
and inspiring associations shall be num
beted, in the history of Methodism, with
the things that were. F. A.
Troy Ct. Montgomery Cons.—W. D.
D. writes Sept. 14 : Our pastor, Rev. J. F.
Dickinson began a meeting at Wesley
t bapel some three or four weeks ago
which lasted some leu or twelve days,
and resulted in reveral conversions and
the church revived. From Wesley Chap
el, he came to Bethel church where he
“pitched his tent, for a few days," where
aided by Bros. W. H. Biggs, aud It, C.
Gibson, local brethren, lie iiegan on 13th
Aug. and fnrseventem days’they preached
successfully. If -all the local brethren
were a- abundant in labors as these men
of God they wouid be a great power iu the
land. Before tills meeting began, the
church was spiritually dull—almost life
less. A few of the members, influenced
by tiie untiring efforts of our zealous pas
tor, had covenanted together to keep up
weekly prayer meetings aud pray lbr a
revival; but the great body of the ctiurch
were seldom seen —except occasionally at
Sunday preaching. We met aud prayed
and God heard our prayers, He has beeu
even better than our fears, and has given
us a gracious meeting. True, some said
them was no use iu trying—we had tried
and had failed. A deep religious feeling
pervaded tho entire community. The
meeting was a success—47 accessions to tbe
church.
Tunnel Hill Ct., No. Ga. Confer
ence.—The Rev. T. M. Pledger writes:—
Tiie Lord of Hosts is witii us ou tiiis
work. At Mt. Zion and Mineral Springs,
the Holy Spirit lias been poured out upon
the people iu rovival power. God’s peo
ple tiave been greatly refreshed, comfort
ed aud strengthened, and perhaps as
mauy as sixty souls happily converted.
We are praying aud looking for still
greater manifestations of His saving pow
er in our midst. A large number of us
have eutered into special covenant to pray
for a deeper work of grace in our own
hearts, and some of us feel that tbe an
swer to prayer is already being realized.
Let all be encouiaged to pray ! We are
greatly indebted to brethren, Rev. J. J.
Harris, John M. Richardson, H. MeHan,
W.O Richardson and Tlios. Lane, for
valuable aud timely services on the occa
sions above referred to. May tbe Lord
reward them! Tiie Lord give us ail tiie
Spirit of prayer and of faith.
Campbellton Ct., N. Ga., Cons.—The
Rev. J. M. Bowden writes, Sept. 15th:
During Hie last five weeks we have had a
precious limeiu tiiis circuit. Three church
es, Liberty Hill, New Hope, aud Antioch,
have beeu greatly blessed aud revived.
There are 40 applications for membership,
54 conversions, and tmny reclamations.
Many glad parental hearts at seeiug re
turning prodigals. These revivals indi
cate permanent good to the church and
communities. In some places the young
men have organized a prayer meeting ;
also neighborhood prayer meetings are
kept up. Many fathers, hitherto negli
gent, have erected their family altars, be
ing glad for their children to hear them
pray and rejoice.
Buenavista, S. Ga. Conf.-Tlio Rev.
G. T. Euibry writes: At the close of the
Columbus District-meeting I procured
the labo sos Bros. Ware, Booth,Timmons,
and H. P. Myers, fora meeting at this
place, during which mauy backsliders
liave been reclaimed, the members gra
ciously revived, aud sixteen added to tbe
church at tiiis place. Such a glorious re
vival spirit has not beeu witnessed in this
town for several years. Many of these
conversions were as clear as the noon
day’s suu. ,
Pine Grove Church/ Blackshear
CT. —The Rev. W. T. McMichael writes of
a “basket meeting” heldv at this church,
where there was a wonderful display of
divine power, and many bright conver
sions. The efficacy of fervent prayer was
shown, in such blessings on tiie church
that at times, there was no need for preach**
ing. Tiie joy iu tbe memb-rßSoappealed to
sinners as when iu Paul’s day, all prophe
sied, aud the unbelievers fell on their
faces, and acknowledged God’s presence.
Barne-ville, N. G. Cons.—The Rev.
Wesley F. Smith writes: The (netting at
this place is going on, eoutinued from Bro.
Branham’s quarterly meetiug, up to this
time—Sept. 17. There have beeu 20 added
to the church, and all of them converted
but one or two. We have had protracted
meetings at all tiie churches iti the work
but one, and many souls have been con
verted. I have baptized 13 of oue family,
McDonough Ct.,N. Ga. Cons.—The
Rev. J. 11. Harris writes a capital letter,
indicating good fruits from his revival.
He says: We are having fine meetings at
every appoiutmeut. I think that I will
be able to swell your list of subscribers
this fall to a good extent. We could not
do without the paper. May God bless
you In your efforts to advauce the inter
ests of tbe cliurob.
Fayetteville or., N. Ga. Cons.—The
Rev. J. W. Turner writes : Two churches
of this ct. have been richly blessed, and
more than forty souls have been added to
them. These are Bethany and Prospect.
Other churches have had slight additions.
Chesterfield cr., So. Ga. Cons.
The Rev. J. C. Hartaell writes : We are
having good meetings on this circuit.
Several have beeu converted, and joiued
tbe ohurcb, and the good work still goes
on.