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Southern Christian
MACON, GEORGIA^ DECEMBER 24. 1873.
South Carolina Conference.
The recent cession of this body, held in
Sumter, was in all respects among the most
pleasant we have over attended. The tra
ditional “ Confersnco weather,” was super
sede! by clear skies, and a most genial tern
perature; the hospitality of the community,
however .heavily taxed it may have been,
responded sumptuous y and without visible
strain to the demands of the occasion; and
the flow of fraternal fellowship, was unim
peded by th- slij-li fst strife.
Bishop McTyeire—a son of South Caro
lina-presided for the first time over the
Conference, and captured the hearts of its
members with his opening address. Dr.
Whitefoord Smith, responded in behalf of
his brethren, in an address of welcome,
characterized by that exquisite grace of
tone and expression which is Ins unique en
dowment. Tim presidency of the Bishop,
and liie services in the pulpit and ou the
platform, were such as to confirm the im
pressions of his introductory utterances,
and to secure for him a mo3t cor iial wel
come when he come3 again. Under his
able direction, the business of the Confer
ence was transacted with deliberation, yet
with dispatch, and in a manner to conserve
and advance the fortunes of the Church,
throughout the State. The plan pursued
by the Bishop, of requiring each preacher
to respond to the call of his name by read
ing the statistics of his charge, though a
little tedious, commended itself to every
one, as most effectual in putting the Con
ferencc in possession of definite information
as to the manner in which each one had
performed his work. The Reports of the
Board of Finance and the Treasurer of the
Board of Missions, compiled from the re
turns of the preachers, presented a most
gratifying exhibit. In common with others,
wo entertained grave apprehensions of a
serious falling off in the receipts for the im
portant interests represented by these
Boards. Bat we rejoiced to learn that not
withstanding the money stringency, the
collections were handsomely in advance of
those of the preceding year. The embar
rassment which threatened these interests,
sprung the preachers to unwonted diligence,
and the result shows that earnest effort is
the prime factor in achieving success, in
this, as in everything else. We are not pre
pared to affirm positively, 'out our impres
sion is, that the support of the ministry,
has not been permitted to decline, bat is
being attended to with increased fidelity
throughout lb a Confine ace. In spiritual
things, it has been a ytar of edification for
the Church. Th; earnest ministry oi God's
servants has been crowned with unusual
success, and a largo proportion of the pas
toral charges have enjoyed most profitable
seasons of refreshing.
The preaching throughout the session of
the Conference, was earnest aud faithful,
and though no special manifestations of re
vival influence marked the services, we feel
sure that the administration of the word
will be followed by gracious results to the
community. The sermon of Rev. S. B.
.Tones, President of Columbia Female Col
lege, before the undergraduates, was im
pressive and animating, and will, we trust,
strengthen their resolves to “endure hard
ness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ.” Paul’s
sublime words, “ None of these things move
me” etc, was the text on the occasion
Bishop McTyeire's sermon on The Call to
Ministry, found an echo in every preacher’s
heart, and abounded in clearly conceived
and lucidly expressed thoughts, which will
help many of his hearers to preach more
satisfactorily than over before on this im
portant subject. Tlio Bishop and Rev. J.
W. Kelly,—aided by a brief bat striking ad
dress from the venerablo Dr. Pinmtner,
President of the Presbyterian Theological
Heminary at Columbia, South Carolina,
made the Missionary Maetingcn Saturday
night, a most interesting and profitable oc
casion. Appropriate memorial services,
commemorative of the worth of Nicholas
Talley, Charles Wilson, and J. Lae Dixon—
the first two veterans, and the last a com
paratively young member of the Conference,
who had passed away during the year, were
held on Monday night.
The Conference enjoyed for the first time,
a visit from Rov. Dr. Eedford, Agent of the
Publishing Ilonso, who exhibited marvel
lous ingenuity in so manipulating the ma
terial, which in ether hands would be bat
dall and tedious facts, into a most entertain
ing and instructive address. ll' can go no
where, where ha will bo more cordiallv wel
corned than by the South Carolina Confer
ence.
An nnnsnaiiy line class of young men
were admitted on tri ll into the Conference,
four of them, sons of members of the Con
foronee, and one, a son of Bishop Wight
man—a species of succession, which we
cor 3ially endorse, and hope will be perpet
uated. We were compelled to leave before
the Report of the Committeo on Education
was presented, but we were greatly gratified
to learn from their respective Presidents,
that Wofl'ord, anu Colombia Female College
were both enjoying largely increased pros
perity. Tho Endowment scheme projected
at the last session of the Conference, hat
been successfully carried oat, and the bonds
for §53,000 for Wofford have all been taken
by responsible parties. The patronage of
both institutions is most encouraging.
Our return trip was most agreeably re
lieved of the ordinary tedium of travel bv
tho companionship of Dr Radford, whom we
found as clurming in the railroad coach, as
ho is entertaining on the Conference plat
form.
As Omission—South Cabolina Confeb
ence.—By oversight, the Conference faded
to order a collection to defray the traveling
expenses of the delegates to the General
Conference, Tho preachers, however, will
not neglect to apply to the people, nor will
the people fail to meet this claim on their
kindness and liberality. This collection
shonld be made a3 soon as nay be, and the
money be sent ’ey some safe means to one
of the delegates. As lam writing to the
Advocate for other purposes, I call attention
to this matter, at the suggestion of several
members of Conference. None, I feel sure,
will regard me as officious. I suppose each
delegate will require about §SO. About
two-thirds of the claim for Conference col
lection in each case would make np the
amount, but somo places may fall short. Let
each do what he can consistently.
H. A. C. Walkeb.
The Geobgia Conferences. —Tho pres
sure upon onr time, occasioned by a week’s
absence in attendance npon the South Caro
lina Conference, and the meeting of the
South Georgia Conference in Macon, pre
vents ns from preparing this week, an edi
torial, based upon the session of the latter.
Wo shall furnish one in onr next issue. Rev.
3. W. Heidt, we are pleased to state, has
promised to furnish ns an article on the ses
sion of the North Georgia Conference, which
wo were prevented from attending.
No Issue. —ln deference to the custom
which has long prevailed in this office there
will be no paper next week. The next issue
of the Advocate therefore, will bear date
January 7, 187-1.
Dr. Lovick Pierce.
It pains ns deeply to have to announce
the serions illness of this venerable and dis
tinguished servant of God. The zeal and
fidelity to ministerial engagements, which
have characterized his long life, led him to
meet the North Georgia Conference at New
nan, bnt his feebleness was so extreme that
he was only able to appeal in the Conference
room for a few minntes, during one day’s
session. From Newnan he came to Macon,
hoping to attend the sessions of his own
Conference, bnt has been confined to his
room daring the entire time. We are grat
fied to bo able te report that at this date,
(Monday evening, Dec. 22d,) his symptoms
are more favorable than at any timo since
his arrival in Macon, and hopes are enter
tained that he may rally from the present
attack. His brethren, as will be seen from
the proceedings of the Conference, testified
their undiminished reverence and affection
for their aged leader, by returning him at
the head of their delegation to the General
Conference.
A Startling Providence. —Col. L. D.
Childs of Columbia, S. C., reached Macon,
on Friday afternoon, Dec. 10th, and cros
sing the street, had jast reached the entrance
to the Brown House, when Mrs. Ch Ids,
without premonition, fell forward—dead.
Heart disease—a malady hereditary in the
family,—was prononneed by the physician,
the cause of the stunning event. For the
stricken family, we feel a degree of sorrow,
too profound for wordß, and from onr in
most sonl, send np the prayer that this
blinding stroke may be sanctified to the sal
vation of the bereaved household. How
sharp the accent imparted by snch an event,
to the admonition, “Be ye also ready!”
The gleam of light whioh irradiates the
gloom of this dark dispensation, is that the
life of the deceased leaves abundant ground
for the bolief, that she passed without snf
fering to her inheritance on high.
Death of an Eminent Citizen.— We re
cord with unusual sadness the somewhat
sudden death of Col. George Dewson, of
Fernandina, Florida—a distinguished citi
zen, and most efficient and exemplary mem
ber of our Church—which occurred after a
very short illness, on the 15th of December
We were most favorably impressed witn the
sterling qualities, both intellectual and
moral, of Col. Dewson, during a visit to his
pleasant home twelve montlis ago. The de
ceased was a brother in-law of Rev G. G
N. MacDonell of the Sooth Georgia Con
ference, to whom, with the more immediate
mourners over this sad event, we tender the
expreision of our fnliest sympathy.
South Georgia Conference.
First Day. —Docom her 17th.
The annual meeting of the South Geor
gia Conference of the Methodist Episeopal
Ohnrch South, commenced in Mulberry
Street Church at nine o’clock, December
17 th. The Conference opened with almost
a full attendance of miniatarial and lay del
egates.
Bishops Paine and Pierce were present.
The first named is Preeident of the Confer
ence.
The opening religious exercises were con
ducted by Rev. Walter Knox. He read a
portion of the 10th chapter of John, after
which was sang the well known hymn, be
ginning:
“And are we yet alive.
And sec each other’s face?
He then uttered a feeling and eloquent
prayer.
Biahop Paine made a very tew remarks in
opening Conference, and closed with a ref
erenoe to the recent death of Bishop Early,
which occurred about sir weeks ago.
The roll of ministers was then called by
Rev. S. D. Clements, Secretary of last Con
ference, after whioh the lay delegates were
reported by their Presiding Elders, and en
rolled. .*
Rev. Stephen D. Clements was re-elected
Secretary, and Revs. R. J. Corley and Isaac
S. Hopkins, were elected assistant secreta
ries.
Rev. J. W. Hinton moved the appoint
ment of a committee on nominations. Car
ried, and the following ministers appointed:
Revs. H. H. Parks, F. A. Branch, D. R.
McWilliams A. M. Wynn, W. M. Hayes,
T. H. McGehoe and J. J. Morgan.
On motion of R3V. John W. Simmons,
the usual courtesies were extended to the
press, and tables and good locations were
kindly provided for reporters.
Rev. G. C. Clarke moved that a special
committee on the state of the chnroh be
appointed, to consist of one minister and
one lay delegate from each district. Carried.
A communication was read from A. H.
Rsdford, D.D , book agent at Nashville
Tenn., briefly setting forth the financial
condition of the concern. The communi
cation was referred to the Committee on
Books and Periodicals.
A communication from T. O. Summers.
D. D., respecting the Nashville Christian
Advocate, the organ of the General Confer
ence, was road. The communication was
very brief, and referred the Conference to
Dr. Haygood for farther information.
A communication from J. B. McFerrin.
D D , Secretary of the Missionary Board,
was read and referred to the proper com
mittee.
It was resolved, on motion of Rev. J. O.
Branch, that the sessions of Conference be
from 9 a si, to 1 p. m.
The examinations under Question 1—
“Who are admitted on trial?—was then
taken up, and the following named appli
cants were admitted into the Conference:
8 W. Key, H. W. Key, Isaac Carey, J. W.
Weston, Cornelius Boland, Richard W.
Rogers, James E. Borie aud Wm. J. Flan
ders.
A. H. Radford, D. D., then adressed the
Conference in the interest of the Publishing
House, detailing in full its financial condi
tion, and askiDg for relief through the instru
mentality of the members of this and other
Southern Conferences. He had already
visited ten Conferences and had met with
encouragement everywhere.
At the dose of this address Conference
proceeded to examinations under Question
2—“ Who remain on trial?”
The character of the following were
pissed and they remained on trial: Albert
McCay Williams, Wilbur F. Beardin, Peter
3. Twitty, John J. Boring, Barnard H. Les
ter and W. H. Rogus, James M. Osborne
was discontinued at his own request.
Rev. Dr. Kennedy, editor of the Southern
Christian Advocate, was introduced by the
Bishop, and briefly addressed the Confer
ence, expressing his grateful appreciation
of the uniform and hearty kindness he had
received from the members of the body
since his official connection with the paper,
and his gratification at being present with
them in their annual session.
Rev. Mr. Fitzpatrick, of the Baltimore
Conference, and Rev. Mr. Lewis, of the St.
Louis Conference, were introduced by the
Bishop.
After the usual announcements, Confer
ence adjourned with the benediction pro
nounced by the presiding Bishop.
Second Day’s Proceedings.
Conference met at 9 o’olock in the Mul
berry Street Church, Bishop Paine in the
chair.
The opening religious services were con
ducted by Dr. O. L. Smith, of Emory Col
lege.
The roll was called and the mimtfes read,
Roll call will be dispensed with daring
the remainder of Conference.
Examinations under Question 1—“ Who
remain on trial ?”—were resumed, and the
characters of W. H. Rogers and Boling H.
Sasnett were passed.
Dr. O. L. Smith read the annual report
of Emory College, which represents the
condition of that institution to be most
favorable for continued prosperity. Refer
red to the Board of Education.
Rev. A. M. Wynn read the report of the
visiting committee of Emory College. Re
ferred to the Board of Education.
A communication from It. Abbey, respect
ing a memorial to Congress asking indem
nity for the property of the Southern Meth
odist Pablmhing House, destroyed daring
the war, was read and referred. Subsequent
ly the Bishop was authorized to sign a me
morial in behalf of the Conference.
Rev. G. C. Clarke introduced resolutions
in regard to the death of Bishop Early and
Rev. W. J. Parks. The resolutions suggest,
that Bishop Paine deliver the memorial ad
dress on the formor, and Bishop Pierce on
the latter. Referred.
The report of the Publishing Committee
on the Southern Christian Advocate was read
and referred to the Committee on the Advo
cate.
Rev. J. O. A. Clark offered a resolution
recommending a more equitable division of
territory between the North and South
Georgia Conferences. Tabled for the pre
sent.
The report of the Board of Trustees of
Wesleyan Female College was read and re
ferred to the Committee on Education.
Rev. T. T. Christian read an appeal from
the deoision of a Quarterly Conference in
the Columbas District by which an expul
sion had been made from the ohnrch on the
charge of selling liquor at wholesale aud
retail. The matter was referred to the
Bishop for his decision.
A communication was read from the widow
of Dr. Thomas H. Capers, asking a transfer,
as a beneficiary, from the Florida to the
South Georgia Conference. Referred to
the Board of Finanoe.
Conference then proceeded to the exami
nations under Quest on 4 : “ Who are ad
mitted into fall connection ?” The follow
ing presented themselves and were received:
R. M. Lockwood, George 0. Thompson,
William J. Green, John W. Domingos, J F,
Mixon, J B. Onlpspper, G. W. Hardaway,
and Boling H. Sasnett.
On motion of R3V. John M. Marshall, 10
o’olook Friday was set apart for the election
of delegates to the General Conference.
Bishop Pierce took the chair.
Rev. Jas E. Evans, D. D , read a report
from a special committee with reference to
Emory College. The report has particular
reference to the endowment of 3500 000
whioh it is proposed to ruse for the college.
The report was accompanied by a circular
appeal to the people in behalf of the insti
tution. Dr. Erans followed the reading of
the report by a very earnest address in favor
of vigorous aotion on the part of the minis
try and people in behalf of the college.
Rev. J. O. A. Clark introduced resolutions
pledging the Conference to a hearty co
operation in the work.
Jadge James Jackson, in rising to second
the resolution, spoke very earnestly aud
eloquently in behalf of the institution.
Jadge Jackson was followed by Bishop
Pierce, who made some interesting state
ments respecting the College. Oae new
building has lately been completed and an
other is abont half-finished. It would have
been finished and ocoupied now had not the
monetary cramp and hi3 absenco from the
State prevented. He had visited all the
District Conferences in the State daring the
year, and had raised in cash subscriptions
and honorable pledges the sum of 330,000.
Twenty thousand more is needed, and it
would be his first work to raise that amonnt.
He had no doubt that it would be raised,
and he gave fair warning to all that the re
quired sum mast be forthcoming. The
Bishop said he had some secrets which he
did not intend to communicate; bnt he
would assure them that the College would
have an endowment of 3500,000, and that
too, sooner than any of them expected. He
would have a tale to tell, alter awhile, which
woald startle them -not in the sense of
fear—but to cause them to give thanks to
God.
Dr. Lovett made a very touching talk for
the College, one that had the deepest effect
npon the feelings of Conference.
On motion of Rsv. J. W. Hinton the re
solutions were referred to the Committee
on Education.
Dr. O. L. Smith reported a resolution
from the Missionary Board, recommending
the separation of Home and Foreign mis
sions. Tabled for the present.
The Seventh Question was taken up—
“ Who are the Deaoons of one year ?”—and
the characters of the following wese passed:
Robert L. Honiker, Robert D. Gentry,
(located,) Sammerfleld N. Tucker, Wm. A.
Green, (located,) John W. Glenn, J. B
W irdlaw.
Rev. R. M. L ickwood was elected to
elder’s orders.
After the usual announcements were made
Conference adjourned with the Doxology
and the benediction by B stiop Pierce.
THIRD DAY’S PROCEEDINGS
Conference met at 9 o’ciook. The relig
ions exercises were conducted by Rev. E
Heidt
The minntes of the previous day were read
and approved.
The Finance Committee reported adverse
ly upon the petition of the widow of Rc-v.
Dr Capers Report adopted.
The report of the Committee on the Bi
ble was read by Rev. W. Knox. Adopted.
Rev. W. A. Parks, agent of the Bible So
ciety, was present and made a short address
to the Oonferenoe. He gave a summary
statement of his labors for the past four
years.
The statement having been made that in
Clinch county, alone, there are 395 families
destitute of the Bible, Judge W. M. Ses
sions, a lay delegate, spoke briefly in defense
of Clinch. He did not think it could be pos
sible that the statement was correct. There
must be some mistake abont it.
Bishop Keener was introduced to the Con
ference, and made a short address. He said
he had nothing but good to report from hi3
work. In the course of his remarks he sug
gested the propriety of the establishment of
distriot schools, under the patronage of the
church, as a means of educating the chil
dren; and also of strengthening the church.
The order of the day—the election of dele
gates to the General Conference—was taken
up. It was announeed that the Conferenco
was entitled to five delegates.
The lay delegates were permitted to retire
to make their own selection of delegates, and
Conference proceeded with the ballot.
The first ballot resulted in the election of
four delegates, as follows: Revs. Loviek
Pierce, Joseph S. Key, James W. Hinton
and Samuel Anthony.
The second ballot resulted in the election
of no one, and a third ballot was had still
without eleotion. A fourth ballot was had
with similar result. The fifth ballot resulted
in the eleotion of Rev J O A Clark.
Conference then proceeded to the eleotion
of three reserves. The first ballot resulted
in the ohoioe of Revs T T Christian and
George G N McDonnell. The second ballot
resulted in the election of Rev O L Smith,
DD.
SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE.
The lay delegates then proceeded to hold
their election, and the first ballot reunited in
the choice of the following:
Delegates —Judge James Jackson, B M
Overby, W H Ellison, Jadge William M Ses
sions and Rev R W Lovett.
Alternates —J Allen, M E Rylander, W
D Grace. Rev J R Felder, and J J Jone*.
Revs E H Lester, Albert M Williams and
Peter S Twitty were elected to
ders.
Revs Edwin J Baroh, and R M Lockwood
were elected to Elder's orders.
Walker Lawis, Edwin J Smith, Pleasant
H Crumpler, and James H Henderson were
admitted on trial.
A motion to have an afternoon session was
adopted.
Conference then adjonrned with the bene
diction.
AFTERNOON SESSION.
Conference met at 3 o’clock, and was
opened with prayer by Rev H H Parks.
The entire afternoon was spent in exami
nation of ministers under Question 20: “Are
all the preachers blameless in their life and
official administration?” The entire exami
nation was gone through with and the char
acters of all the preachers passed.
Conference adjourned with the benedic
tion to meet at 9 o’clock this morning.
FOURTH DAY'S PROCEEDINGS
Conference met at 9 o’clock, and was
opened with religions services conducted by
Rev A M Thigpen, of the North Georgia
Conference. \
Tee minutes were read by the Secretary
und approved.
Prof A H FlewelleD, President of Audrew
Ft male College, Cnthbert, G* , read the an
nual report of that institution, giving a fa
vorable report of its progress. Referred to
the Committee on Education. •
The Professor made a brief address solic
iting the influence of Conference in behalf
of Hie institution.
This college is owned and controlled by
the South Georgia Conference, and under
the Presidency of Rev J B McGeehee, and
later under the Presidency of Prof. Flewel
len, it has steadily gained upon the esteem
of the people. More than one hnndred pu
pils were matriculated at the beginning of
the present fall term, and the prospect is
fair for a still larger attendance next term.
The daughters of ministers of the Confer
ence are gratuitously educated at this col
lege ; and they are also provided with board
at lower rates than are the daughters of
ordinary patrons of the school.
The following local preachers were effected
to deacon's orders: Seaborn H Thigpen,
Wa!kr Lewis, H R Felder. Thomas Line,
James B McCullers, Chas S Rockwell and
John T Lowe.
The following local preachers were elected
el lerv : Henry J. Harvey, Chas R H Hays,
Joseph Short, James D Russ, James J
Tooke, John W Watts and Wm Harden.
Thomas R Stewart applied for a restora
tion of tbe credentials which he surrendered
some years ago, Granted.
The Bishop hare aunonneed that a short
session of the Legal Conference would be
held, and Dr Joseph S Key, President,
took the chair, and the minutes of the last
Legal Conference, were read.
Rev Geo G N MacDonell read the Treas
urer's report of the Special Relief Fuud.
Adopted.
Rev T T Christian read his report as
Treasurer. Adopted.
It was announced that Wm Whitehead, of
Harris eohhly, deceased, had bequeathed
3000 to the church for missionary purposes,
aud the preacher in charge of the circuit
was appointed an agent to communicate be
tween the executor of the estate and the
M'ssionarv Board, or the proper legatee.
Rev J O A Cooke read the annual report
of tbe Preachers’ Aid Society.
Rev R W Dixon was elected a manager of
the Preachers’ Aid Society, vice Rev Wm
M Kennedy, deceased.
A special committee of two was appointed
to investigate all the facts connected with
the Myers fund, and report the same to the
next Conference. The committee consists
of Revs A Wright aud J O A Clarke.
Tbe old officers of the Legal Conference
wete re eleoted. These officers are Rev J S
Key, President, Rev S D Clements, Secre
tary, and Rev T T Christian, Treasurer.
The Legal Conference then adjonrned,
and the Annual Conference resumed its ses
sion, wi h Bishop Pierce in the chair.
Riv A M Wynn read the report of the
Commission for Orphans’ Home. This com
mission was raised at the last session of
Conference for the purpose of securing a
location for a home for orphans, to be under
the management and support of the South
Georgia Conference. The commission con
sisted of Geo C Clark, A M Wynn, J W
Burke, Jno W Jordan, and James Jackson.
The report announced that a location for
the Home had been secured very near Ma
con, and that the institution is now in oper
a'.ion, which eleven orphans in it, and all
happily provided for in the way of food and
raiment, and all being edneated. The loca
tion consists of ninety-four acres of land,
twenty sx acres of which is under fence.
Tli-re is on it a ten-room house, a good
orchard and a first-rate vineyard. The
property, as we understood the repo t, was
a donation to the Conference, the on y con
dition being that it be never diverted from
the purposes of a Home for the orphan chil
dren. The titles were properly made out,
and a charter secured from the Bibb Supe
rior Court, all of which were presented with
the report. The buildings have been re
paired and painted, the fences pnt in good
rup.iir, and a large garden enelosed.
R;v Samuel Anthony, Agent for the
Home, made a report of his operations dur
ing the yeßr. It showed the following re
suits :
Cash collected $ 4 510
Subscriptions now due .. 2,710
Subscriptions due In 5 and ten years 35,110
Total result for the year F4J,880
Besides these, he said he had the names
of many persons who had agreed to give so
much a year as long as they lived. These
amounts could not well be aggregated.
The institution he said did not owe a dol
lar.
The following were elected a Board of Trns
tees for the Orphans’ Home : S Anthony, A
M Wynn, Geo C Clarke, Jno W Burke, A L
Maxwell, J O Branch, Cosby W Smith, J W
Jordan, H L Jewett, J W Cheatham, W D
Williams and James Jackson.
Mr Anthony made a very earnest address
in favor of the Home, making some very in
teresting statements in regard to it. Be
sides the money contributions he had men
tioned in his report, ho had received a nnm
ber of contributions of clothing, bedding
and other necessaries, which were greatly
needed. One gentleman had given him a
bale of cotton for mattresses. The ootton
had been sold and good mattresses pur
chased.
At the close of Mr. Anthony’s remarks,
Wm A Wilson, of Amerions, announeed that
lie would give one acre of land to the Home,
which he would have cultivated, and would
give the entire proceeds eaoh year to the
Home.
Resolutions were adopted arranging for
funds to defray the expenses .of the ministe
rial and lay delegates to the General Con-,
ference.
Rev Geo C Clarke presented the report of!
the Special Committee on the State of tht-j
Church. This was decidedly the ablest doo
nment yet read before the Oonferenoe. It
was read by Judge Jackson. Pending its l
consideration, the hour of adjournment ar
rived, and the matter was postponed.
Bishop Paine announced that he would
leave on Monday morning, as he desired, if
possible, to reaph his home by Christmas.
He left the Conference in charge of Bishop
Pierce.
The following gentlemen were introduced
to the Conference : Rev A J Battle, D D,
President of Mercer University, Rev W H
Mclntosh, pastor of the First Baptist
Church, Rev. James Mcßryde, pastor of the
Second Baptist Church, aud Revs J W
Heidt, A M Tnigpen, W F Cook and D J
My rick, of ths North Georgia Conference.
After the usual announcements, Confer
ence adjourned with the benediction by
Bishop Paine.
Sunday Night, Dec. 21st.
The Conference met in memorial session
in Mulberry St., Church, at 7 o’clock, r. m.
Religious services by George C. Clarke,
reading 90th Psalm, and 71Gth Hymn.
R. W. Dixon read memoir of Rev. Wm. M.
Kennedy, and ou motion for its adoption,
which was afterward passed, F. A Branch,
H. H. Parks, R. L. "Wiggins, J. W. Sim
mons, R. H. Howren, and George C. Clarke,
paid handsome tributes to the eminent worth
of the deceased, in brief addresses.
O. L. Smith read the memoir of Rev. W.
J. Parkß, who though at the time of bis
death a member of the North Georgia Con
ference, had been identified with the undi
vided Georgia Conference from its organi
zation up to the division. Glowing tributes
were paid >o his distinguished worth by S.
Authony, A. Wright, H. P. Pitchford. O.
L. Smith, and Bis'aop Paine. The memoir
was tbeu unanimously adopted.
8. S. Sweet read extracts from a published
tribute to Bishop Early, after which, Bishop
Paine, spoke in eloquent and tender eulogy
of his deceased colleague. The speaker
closed his remarks with an earnest appeal to
the unconverted to seek religion without
delay, which was responded to by the pre
sentation of quite a numbtr of penitents at
the altar. After prayer by S. AnUiony, the
Conference was adjourned with the benedic
tion by Bishop Keener.
ference, had been identified with the nndi
vided Georgia Conference from its organi
zation up to the division. Glowing tributes
were paid *o his distinguished worth by S.
Anthony, A. Wright, H. P. Pitchford, O.
L. Smith, and Bis'aop Paine. The memoir
was tbeu unanimously adopted.
8. S. Sweet read extracts from a published
tribute to Bishop Early, after which, Bishop
Paine, spoke in eloquent aud tender eulogy
of his deceased colleague. The speaker
closed his remarks with an earnest appeal to
the unconverted to seek religion without
delay, which was responded to by the pre
sentation of quite a numbtr of penitents at
the altar. After prayer by S. AnUiony, the
Conference was adjourned with the benedic
tion by Bishop Keener.
FIFTH DAYS PROCEEDINGS
Conference met at 9 o'clock, Bishop Pierce
in the chair. The religious services were
conducted by L B Payne.
The minutes of Saturday, aud of the Me
morial Session of Sunday night, were read
and adopted.
The report of the Committee on the State
of the Church was read and adopted, and
the i evolutions pr< rented therewith were
amended and also adopted. The principal
point in these resolutions is tho enforce
ment of the Discipline against church mem
bers for such offences as visiting places of
amusement, dancing, and other irreligious
practices.
A series of resolutions from the Florida
Conference, suggesting a union of the Flo
rida and South Georgia Conferences, were
read as information, and then withdrawn
by the Commissioners.
The resolutions in regard to the boundary
lino between the North and South Georgia
Conferences, were called up and adopted.
The re solutions declare that the boundary
line was determined, and referred the matter
to the mutual delegations to the General
Conference.
Rev John M Marshall read the report cn
the Southern Christian Advocate., The report
recommends tho cash system, and approves
the editorial management of the paper un
der Dr F M Kennedy, Report adopted.
Ifsv S G Childs was put on tlio superan
nuated list.
Rev II H Parks offered a resolution recom
mending to the General Conference a change
in the law respecting admission into (he Con
ference on trial. Lost.
Rev A Wright read ilia report of theß tard
of Education. Report shows tint Confer
ence is aiding in the education of three
young men, and recommends that collec
tions be made for a completion of the work.
Rev J W Burke, Treasurer of the Board,
read his report, showing that there was
3520 75 in the treasury now.
Rav A Wright read the report of tho Com
mittee on Education, which was adopted.
The report was accompanied.by resolutions
committing the Conference to strenuous ef
forts in behalf of the institutions of the
Conference; appointing the third Sunday in
June as a day of special prayer for the same,
and recommending the reappointment of the
present Presidents and Professors of both
Emory and Weileyan Female College, all of
which was adopted.
;On motion of Rjv A Wright, the Com
mittee on Education aud the Board of Edu
cation were consolidated under the name of
the Board of Education.
R-v A M Wynn, President of the Confer
ence Sunday-school Society, offered a reso
lution disbanding the society.
A resolution was passed commending a
series of articles or the Orphans' Home,
-written by Dr Jesse Boring, and recommend
ing their publication in an enduring form.
Toe resolution was read by Rev J B Mo-
Gehee.
The report of the Committee on Books
and Periodicals wes road by Rev Geo S John
son.
Bishop Paine's decision upon the appeal
case from the Columbus district was read.
This is a case in which a member had been
expelled from the chureh for selling liquor.
Toe Bishop referred the matter back to the
Quarterly Conference for anew trial.
Dr O L Smith called up the resolution re
commending the separation of home and
foreign missions. This resolution proposes
'o give tho homo work exclusively into the
hands of the Conferences. Adopted. This
resolution is simply a recommendation to
the General Conference, which has author
ity in the matter.
Dr W H Hollinshead, President of the
Board of Finance, read the annual report.
It announced the following assessment for
1874:
Con. col. Bishops.
Savannah District #I,BOO #BSO
Macon District 1,700 340
Columbus District 1,800 860
Americua District 1,400 280
Bainbridge District 1,000 200
Thomasville District 1,100 220
Aitamaha District 200 40
#9.000 #I,BOO
Rav Geo G N MacDonell read the report
of the Missionary Board, which was adopted.
The report shows that §6,074 GG was col
lected during the year for missions.
Dr O L Smith presented a resolution re.
questing ministers to make their missionary
collections during tho months of March
and April.
The next Conference will be held in Sa
vannah. Dawson was the only other appli
cant.
Conference then adjourned to meet at 7
o’clook p. si. Benediction by Bishop Pierce.
EVENING SESSION.
Conference reassembled at 7 o’clook, Bish
op Pieroe in the chair.
The minutes of the morning session were
read and approved.
Rev I S Hopkins read the statistical re
port, which was adopted.
The first Friday in April was named as a
day of fasting and prayer.
Reeolations of thanks to the citizens of
Maoon, for their hospitality, to the railroads
for passing tho ministers at reduced fare,
and to tho Baptist and Presbyterian congre-'
gations for the nse of their churches on
Sunday, were adopted.
Fifteen hundred oopies of the minntes
were ordered to bo printed.
At this juncture, R3v Geo C Clarke pre
sented to Bishop Pierce a gavel, the head
of which was made from a piece of the cele
brated Wesley oak—(a tree under which
John Wesley preached whsn he came as a
missionary to this country)—and the handle
of which was made of a piece of one of the
benches of Great Bethel Church, iu Virgin
ia, where the first battle of the late war was
fought. Mr Clarke make a brief presenta
tion speech, and the Bishop received it in
his usual felicitous manner.
The Bishop then announced that the Con
ference would be adjonrned in the usual
manner. A hymn was sung and Rev Samuel
Anthony offered a most fervent prayer. The
Bishop then addressed the Conference for a
few minutes, impressing upon them what
he conceived to be their high obligations as
ministers of the gospel, after which he pro
caeded to read the following
Savannah Disthict-J O A Clark, P K.
Savannah, Trinity, H H Parks.
“ Wesley Churchand mis, A M Wyan.
Springfield, N D Morehouse.
Sylyania, J D Mamden.
Milieu mis’ R W Rogers.
Bethel, E J Burch.
Alexander, J A Rosser.
I Waynesboro, G 8 JoliDston.
I Herndon mis, W E Shackelford.
Bethany, T B Lanier.
Louisville, J W Glenn.
Sandersville, J F Mixon.
Washington and Davisboro, J J Boring and J W
Domingos.
Gibson, J E Rorie.
Macon Djstbict—J W Hinton, PE.
Macon, Mulberry Stand Viuevllle, J O Branoh.
“ East Macoa and City mis. Walker Lewis
and J W Burke.
“ Fir-t St, Geo G N MacDonell.
Macon ct, C J Toole.
Irwintoe, A M Williams.
Jeffersonville and Gordon, B fi Sasnett, and one
to be supplied.
Fort Valley and Marehallville, F A Branch.
Crawford, W W Tidwell.
Perry, W F Robison
Hayneville, W M D Bond.
Hawkiueviile and Longstreet, K J Corley.
Pulaski, W H Rogers.
Wilcox mis, to be supplied by R M Booth.
O L Smith, President of Emory College.
IS Hopkins, Professor of Emory College.
E H Myers Pre-ident Wesleyan Female College.
C W Smith and W C Biss, Professors In Wesleyan
Female College.
Columbus Distkict—J B MoGehee, PE.
t Columbus, 8t Luke’s, J 8 Key.
i “ Girard and Trinity, J W 81mmons.
I “ St Paul’s. A Wright.
1 “ Broad Bt, R W Dixon.
Cataula, 8 D Clemeuta.
Hamilton, D R McWillllams.
Taibotton, W Knox.
Talbot ct. L ri Pavne, B W Key.
Geneva. W G Booth.
Butler, E J Keutz.
Gloa Alta and mis, C C Uiues.
Cm-seta, R F Evans.
Conference Missionary, L Pierce.
Amebicus District—N B Ousley, PE.
Americue, T T Christ!",;.
Sumier, J T Ainsworth, Geo C Thompson.
Ellaville W Lane, R F Williamson, sup.
Smithville, B H Lester.
Oglethorpe, J B Wardlaw.
Montezuma, to be supplied by II R Felder.
Vienna and D >o'y mis, G T Embry, E I Smith.
Cuthbert, B F Breedlove,
Weston, R L Wiggins, and one to be supplied.
8 ewart, J M Pott*r.
Buena Vista, W. W. Stewart.
Lumpkin, A J Dean.
Agent doutb Ga Orphans’ Home, Sam’l Anthony.
Dawson District— R B Lester, PE.
Dawson, Geo C Clarke.
Terrell aud M >rgan, J R Littlejohn, W F Bearden.
Fort Gaines and Blakely, W M Hayes.
Arlington, P O Harris.
Spring Creek mis, to be supplied by J B McCul
lough
Baiobridge, R L Honiker.
Trinity, J W Weston.
Decatur, T K Leonard.
Cair •, J J Giles.
Camilla and Newton, P 8 Twitty.
Albany aud mis, II P Myers.
Leesburg, to be suoplled by W M Russell.
Worth mis, S N Tucker.
Georgetown, L G K Wiggins.
Springvale, 8 R Weaver.
Thomasvili.b District—J M Austin, PE.
Thomasville, E A H McGehee.
I Boston, W M Watte.
1 Spring Hill, P H Crumpler.
Quitman, 8 8 Sweet.
I Morvert, J E Sentell
| Moultrie, C. E. Boland,
i Valdosta, J P Wardlaw.
) Lowndes and Echols mission, A. P. Wright.
Nashville, L. A Darsev.
i Stockton mission, W H Thomas.
) Waresboro, J. B. Culpepper.
Jessup, J.L Williams.
Blackshear and Wayeross, H W Key.
I Centre Village, to be supplied by 8. 8. Moore,
i St Mary’s. W A Green.
Camden, T 8 Armstead.
Brunswick and mission, .1 O A Cook.
Darien, R M Lockwood,
j Hinesville and mission, J M Marshall.
I Bryan mission, W M C Conley.
Altamaha District—J V M Morris, PE.
Scarboro, .1 J Morgan.
Dublin, J 8 Jordan.
Wrightsvilie, D O’Driscoll.
Eastman mission, D C Pope.
I Swalnsboro, to be supplied by J R Waie.
I Connchee mission, W. J. Flanders.
Jacksonville, W F Conley.
Oconee, H C Fentress.
Reideville. J Spence.
Holmesvllle, I F Carey.
Ocmulgee. W F Roberta.
South Coffee mission, to be supplied.
G J Pierce, G W Hardaway, G R Kramer, W.
T. MeMlcbael, Jamt-s Jones, and Miller H. White,
transferred to the North Georgia Conference.
J F Henderson, transferred to the Arkansas Con
ference.
Conference then adjonrned with the Dox
ology aud the Benediotion by Bishop
Pierce.
South Carolina Conference.
Tuesday Morning, Deo. 16th, 1873.
Conference convened pnrsnant to adjonrn
ment—9Lj a, m. Bishop McTyeire in the
chair. Prayer by Kev. M. Brown.
Minntes of yesterday read and approved.
By his own request, Olin L. Durant was
discontinned from the traveling ministry.
In view of the secularization of G. W. M
Creighton, it was resolved that he be located.
It was so ordered. T. W. Smith was located
at his own request.
The Committee on the Southern. Christian
Advocate made their report through A. A
Gilbert. A. majority and minority report
were read. After some discussion it was re
solved that all matter relating to the Advo
cate be referred to onr delegates to the next
General Conference.
The Statistical Secretary read his report
whioh shows a small decrease in the differ
ent collections in view of the failare of somi
of the charges to report.
The different reports were presented by
their respective chairmen, and were adopted
The Statistical Report was submitted, a
condensed statement from whioh is as fol
lows :
Beport of Numbers.
~ , Whits*. Colored.
Members....... ......36.432 5
Local preachers jjg 3
Infants baptized 1 534 jg
Adults baptized. 1,394 20
Number of Suaday-sohoeis 44s
Number of officers and teachers 2.785
Number of pupils- 17,181 91
Number ot volumes ia library...- .28,072
Chureh Property.
' Number of churches 526
Number of parsonages gs
Value of churoh property .#642,303
Moneys Collected for Various Chureh Purposes.
For Pastors and assistants „.# 68,382 18
I or presiding elders 8.887 81
For Conference collection 4,632 21
For missions —_ 4,313 g 2
For education „ 2.277 09
For bishops..— 843 %
For educating candidates for ministry 219 25
For Sunday-iohools ....... 4,883 58
For building and repairing churches, par
sonages, sohool-houses. etc 31,506 02
For other benevolent enterprises 10.277 13
#130.722 65
Add in cash and bonds for Wofford College
about 53,000 00
Total #183,722 65
Dr. E. J. Meynardie was elected to preach
the next Oonferenoe sermon.
Rev. W. Martin was, at his own request,
placed on the superannuated list
The hour of adjournment having arrived,
it was moved to have an afternoon session.
So ordered.
Conference adjourned with the benedio
tion by the Bishop.
Aftkknoon, Deo. 16th, 1873.
Conference met at 3)<f p. it. Rev. J. T
Wightman in the chair. Prayer by Rev. P.
F. Kistler.
Minutes of morning session were read and
approved.
After the reading of reports on Orphan’s
Home and the Bible, with some ohanges,
they were adopted.
At this juncture the chair was given to
H. M. Mood, President of the Tithe Society,
of the South Carolina Oonferenoe. The Pres
ident made a brief report in behalf of the
Society, after whioh an election for offioers
was had. H. M. Mood was again elected
President for the ensning year, with the
usual officers, connected with the Society.
Bishop McTyeire in the chair—the report
on Wofford College and other Conference
institutions was submitted, and adopted.
It was moved that W. Bowman be ap
pointed Book Agent, with the understand
ing that he oonttne himself to the sale of our
own publications.
Conference met at 7 o’clock r. m. Bishop
Mo Tyeire in the chair. Prayer by fl. M.
Mood. The following are the
appointments:
Charleston District.—VV. P. Mouzou, P. E.
Charleston, Trinity and Cumberland, G. H. Wells.
“ Bethel, J. T. Wightmuo.
“ Bpring St, R. D. Smart.
Summerville ct,, A. W. Walker.
I Berkley ct, E L. Kirg.
( Cooper River mis., to be supp'ied.
j Cypress ck, Wm. Carsou.
( Bc. Paul’s mis., to be supplied.
St. George’s et, W. A. Clarke.
Bamberg et., P. F. Kistler.
Waltsrboro’ ct., B. G. Jones. H. B. Green.
Colleton ct., T. Rrysor, W. 8. F. Wightmuo.
Allendale ct., T. E. Wauuamaker.
1 Yemassee ct., G 11. Pooser.
I Hardeeville mis., Joho K. Coburn.
Black Swamp et., M. L Banks.
Orangeburg District.—H. A. C. Walker, P. E.
Orangeburg st., J. B. Campbell.
Eastern Orange ct., A. Nettles.
BranchviUe ct., D. J. Biuimons.
Providence. J. U. Zimmerman.
St. Mathews, T. J. Clyde.
Upper St, Mathews, J. J. Workman.
Upper Orange ct., A. R Danuer.
( Edisto ct, J. L. Siffey, K. B Tarrant, sup’v.
( Upper Edisto mis , to be sup. by E. A. Price.
Graham, J. W. Mcßoy.
Willis ton, J. B. Mnssebeuu.
Ellenton, H. W. Whitaker.
Aiken mis., U. 8. Bird. G. J. Griffiths, Sup’y.
Graniteviile aud Langley mis., L. C. Loyai.
Columbia District.—W. H. Fleming, P. L.
Columbia, Washington Street, O. A. Darby, A.
C. Smith, J. H. C. McKinney, sup.
“ Marion Btreet, W. D. Kirkland.
Columbia ct., J. T. Kiigo.
Richland Fork, J. O. Russell.
Winusboro and Ridgeway, A. J. Stafford.
Blackstoek ct., C. D. Maun.
Fairfield ct., J. M. Boyd.
East Chester, E. J. Meynarule.
Chester, J. W. Hnrnb- rt
Rock Hill, J. E. Watson, M. A. Connolly, Sup'y.
Yorkvillest., D. D. Dantzler.
York ct., L. A. Johnsou
Lexiugton. ct., G. W. Gatlin.
Leesville, J. A. Clifton.
Edgefield, Wm. Thomas.
Columbia Female College, 8. B. Jones, President.
Columbia Kemale College. 8. H. Browne, Agent.
Marion District —W. C. Power, P. F..
Marlou st., A. J. Stokes.
Marion ct., W. L. Pegues.
Buck Swamp ct., W. W. Jones, and one to be
supplied
Little Rock, J. C. Stoll.
Bennettaville, J. A. Mood, Dove Tiller.
North Marlboro', E. T. Hodges, R. K. Pegues,
eup.
Florence and Liberty chapel mis., G. T. Harmon.
Lynches Creek ct., It. L. Duffle.
Kingstree and John-ouville ct., Wm. Hutto and
one to be sup.
Gourdin and Sampit, H. 11. Morgan.
Georgetown st., L. Wood.
Couwayboro and Bucksvillc ct., M. V. Wood and
one to bo snp.
Coqwayboro, cL, C. D. Rowell.
Waccamaw ct., and mis , W. 11. Kirton.
Spartanburg District.—T. G. Herbert, P. E.
Spaitaubnrg st, J. A. Porter.
Spartanburg ct., J. C. Davis.
Cherokee ct., to be snp. by J. F. Smith.
Rich Hill ct., M. H Pooser.
Paeolet, I. J. Newberry.
Fair Forest, J. B. Wilson.
Unionville st., A. H. Lester.
Goßhon Hill, N K. Melton.
Belmont, M. A. McKibben.
Cane Creek, H. F Chrletzberg.
Clinton, W. J. Whitman.
Laurens, J. B Traywlck.
Wofford College, A. M Shipp, President.
Wnltefoord Smith, Professor.
F. M. Kennedy, Editor Southern Christian Advo
cate.
R. C. Oliver, Supt. Carolina Orphan’s Home.
Bumtbr District —A. M. Chrletzberg, P. E.
Sumter st., J. M. Carlisle.
Sumter et., L. M. Little, W. W. Rogers.
Bißhopville ct., S. J Hill, L. F. Beaty.
Camden st., J. W. Kelly,
j Santee ct, Tlios. Mitchell,
j Fnlton mis., to be sup. by Chas. Felder.
Manning ct., J. B. Platt.
Lynchburg, F. Auld, J. 8. Beasley.
Timmoiisville, C. C. Fii-liburne.
Darlington st., J. O. Wilson.
Darlington ct.. L. M. Hamer,
j Cheraw st, J. E. Carlisle.
| Cheraw mis., J. R. Little.
Chesterfield ct., A. Ervin.
1 Zoar ct., and mis., D. W. Seale.
( Hanging Rock et., T. W. Munnerlyn.
t Lancaster at., K. L. Harper.
I Bell Air ct., J. F. England.
Cokesbury District —H. M. Mood, P. E.
Cokesbury Bt., R. N. Wells.
Cokesbury ct., 8. P. 11. Elwell, C. n. Pritchard,
Jr.
Abbeville st., W. T. Capers.
Abbeville ct., R. R. Dagnall, J. C. Blssel.
South Abbeville ct., G. M. Boyd.
Lowndeaville st., A. J. Caulhtn.
Tumbling Shoals, J. Finger.
Greenwood ct., J. W. Murray, G. W. Walker, W.
H. Lawton, sup’y.
Newberry st., M. Brown.
Newberry ct., J. L. Bhnford, J. C. Counts, supply.
Littly Saluda, J. C. Miller
Cokesbury School, G. F. Round.
Greenville District.—R. P. Franks, P. E.
Greenville st., C. U. Pritchard.
Greenville ct., J. Attaway.
Reldville ct., J. K. McCain.
Buena Vista and Batesville st.. to he supplied by
8. M. Green.
WlUl&mston st., S. A. Weber.
Brushy Creek and Belton ct, E. L. Archer, J. A.
Wood, sup’y.
Anderson st., W. W. Mood.
Anderson ct., and mis., J. Q. Stockman, C. V.
Barnes, sup’y, W. A. Hodges, sup’y.
Pendleton ct., D. J. McMillan.
Plckensville ct, R. W Barber.
Walhalla ct., J. W. Dixon, F. M. Morgan, sup
ply.
Cherokee mis., to be supplied by E. Merritt.
Beneca ct., ami mis., to be supplied by H. Tyler.
Williamston Female College, 8. Lander, Presi
dent.
Wm. Bowman, Tract Agent.
Forestvllle Circuit, North Georgia Confer*
enee.
Brother Kennedy: Another Conference
year has closed, the time of the Annual
Convention of Ministers is near at hand,
and the period presents subjects of very se
rious reflection, both for preachers and peo
pie.
To the minister, whether he has been
faithfal and diligent among his flock; wheth
er he has at any time shunned to declare the
whole counsel of God; whether he has at any
time been biased by fear, or affection for
saint or Binner; and whether he has done all
he oould to promote the oause of God in his
oharge.
To the people, whether as Church mem
bars, they have snstained the overseer ol
the flook; have they remembered that their
preacher, with his wife and children, were
flesh and blood, and needed, as themselves
food and raiment, and that God has said,
“No man goeth a warfare at his own
oharges,” “ muzzle not the ox that treadetb
out the corn ” and “ ordained that he who
preaoheth the gospel shall live of the gos
pel,” and that if they have received spiritual
blessings from their minister’s lips, it is
meet that they should minister to his tern
poral necessities. Have they been kind and
affectionate to him ? Sympathized with him
in his toils, labors, sacrifices, afflictions and
bereavements? eneonraged, succored and
defended him in his sacred vocation ? all
these and many others form subjects of se
rions reflection.
Our minister, Rev. W. P. Rivers, who has
labored with increased zeal and popularity
npon this work for the last two years, has
made an impression for good upon the
minds and hearts of the Church and people,
that will not soon, if ever, be effaced. The
present year, he has been sorely tried. Be
sides his own bodily afiliotions, whioh have
been often acute, in the early part of th<
year, he was oalled to bnry his aged father,
and recently to consign his only son to the
tomb. May God sustain and bless him, and
enable him ever to realize that "God is too
wise to err, too good to be unkind.”
Notwithstanding these things, which hin
dered him from doing what he, otherwise,
oould and would have done, God was not
unmindful of us. During the former part
of the year a great coldness and spiritual
drought seemed to pervade the entire
Churoh round abont. In the summer three
brethren, W. H. Mathis, Walter Stewart and
Marion Mathis, living near eaoh other, and
deeply feeling and deploring this condition
of the Churoh, covenanted with eaoh other
to meet at a throne of grace, at a certain
time every evening wherever they might be,
and importune the Great Hearer of prayer
for blessings npon themselves, their wives
and children. It was not long before their
prayers were answered in blessings upon
their sonls, This led to the institution of
VOLUME XXXVI., NO. 51.
a prayer- meeting in a little old log house
on W. H. Mathis’ place. The goad work
began to catch from heart to heart ; then ft
Sabbath school; then class meetings every
Sabbath evening. The good work still spread,
until just about the close of one of their
evening cervices, some five or six little boys
went off a short distance from the house
where service was held, and prostrated them
selves on the ground aronnd an old stump,
and there, their agonized prayers attracted
the older people. Clod met them in great
mercy, and the great work was fairly inaug
urated. Souls were blessed abundantly;
times of refreshing from the Lord were glo
riously experienced. Some were converted,
and many more became serious and inquired
the way to Zion. The flame extended as the
wave of the pebble thrown into the cceaD.
Just at this juncture Rev. John W. Gil
lam, am) another local preacher of the neigh
borhood, agreed to commence a protracted
meeiicg at Rnnniug Water Church. It did
commence, bnt on occount of a certain pres
sure which the enemy made use of, the
meeting was discontinued after two or three
days’ efforts. But Bro. Gillam and “that
other ” minister resolvod to resume the ex
ercises after a few days, regardless of any
opposing elements. They went at the work
as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. The
church was rallied after a while and the goed
work began to develop itself in the shouts
of the children of God ; penitents began to
crowd the altar, and souls were happily con
vorted. Evening grovo meeting** were adopt*
ed, and they will never he forgotten. The
power manifested itself upon the sons and
daughters of God in these meetings, and
when returning to the church where the
“great congregation” were assembled, fre
quently such power of the Holy Ghost would
be manifested in the house of God as to
thrill with wonder ar.d astonishment the
people who had come to hear and see and
feel these things. Aud thus it went on for
weeks The fire continued to spread far
and wide. Ttie exercises were now trans
ferred to Forestville. Here great good was
accomplished. The revival jjower reached
over into Rome, and tho region round about,
which brings us up to the time of our camp
meeting at Morrison’s Camp Ground. The
church needed not, as is too often the case,
to bo preached to several days to be recon
verted, but were already prepared for the
conflict.
At the first service the presence of the
Lord was felt, and manifested in-songs of
rejoicings and shouts of praise, which was
continued at every public service daring the
progress of the meeting, and frequently at
the tents and in the grove.
Such a seatou of wetks and months of
religious power is has not been the good for
tune of this writir to witness in many long
years, and its full development will be known
and realized only iu that great day, when
“ God will justify his ways with man.”
All these tilings originated in the cove
nanted prayers of the three brethren already
mentioned. Who doubts the power and
efficacy of prayer, united prayer, though
the heavens be us brass ? To God be all
the glory, both now and forever, and let all
tho people say, ame-n.
James A. Clements
Dir ember S, IS 73.
[ Fee publication of this letter has been
unavoidably delayed.—Editor j
<KIEI~—IM IfllMW 'IWI 111 I llllHlHim——————
Bov (I) (Lrio rp Conf. .tjommcnfs.
Repoi't on Sunday-schools.
Rev. J. B. Hunnicutt submitted the fol
lowing report from the Committee on Sun
day-schools.
This great and growing interest of the
Church is not yet fully developed. The
capacity of the Sunday-school for good is
not fully realized by our church member
ship, nor by all of onr pastors. This
lamentable fact is proven by the non-atten
dance of many of the former, and the vaguo
and unreliable reports of many of the latter.
We do not attribute this to a want of in
terest iu tho spiritual welfare of the yonng,
or to a lack of faith in the Sunday-school,
as the means of accomplishing this desider
atum. All thinking minds mast admit that
right religious training and education are
essential to fnll christisn growth and devel
opment. They are equally ready to admit,
that the Sunday-school is the primary de
partment of the great College of Christ’s
Church on the earth, whose graduates re
lieve their deplomas at the portals of eter
nal glory, aud their honors in the Father's
Mansion.
We apprehend, that the main difficulty
grows out of tho defective system, or rather,
vant of a well digested system, Jof Sunday
school operations. There is a want of that
strength which em mates from united efforts.
We need a system which will make every
Methodist and especially every pastor a Sun
day-school worker ; which in some capacity,
will employ the entire mental and moral
force of tho church.
To devise, inaugurate and perfeot, such a
plan will require patient, prayerful and pro
tracted effort, and if it should employ the
best talent of the Conference, it will not
have been misapplied. The children of the
Church will soon be the pillars of the Lord’s
House in the earth. Rear them aright and
they will transmit, to generations yet un
horn, the glorious temple, beautiful and
undefiled.
We urge, therefore, that more prominence
he given to this branch of pastoral work ;
shat every pastor seek to interest his entire
membership in the Sunday-sohool work ;
chat we abate not our efforts until every
child in the reach of Methodist influence,
is brought into this nursery of the churob.
Oar statistics show 473 Schools, with
26,590 Officers teachers aud pupils, and 762
converts from this number. This shows
wo members in the chnrcb to one in the
Sunday-school, whereas with a well devel
>ped system we ought to have two in Suu
iay-school to every member of the Ohurob.
In order to effect this reversal, let ns awake
and gather up recruits from the many
thousands of children now growing up in
habitnal disregard of the sanctity of the
sabbath-day.
We rejoice to know, that our, excellent
Sunday-school literature is recieved with
such encouraging circulation.
Especially would we commend the effort
of our worthy Secretary to supply our young
people with a higher and purer grade of
reading matter. The quasi novelette litera
cure with which our Sunday-schools have
oeen so long supplied is of doubtful ntility
md often injurions tendency. The “Fred
Brenniug,” “ John Ivitto,” and other series
recently issued, should be extensively cir
culated and read. To this end we hope onr
Publishing House may soon find itself able
to publish these and similar books so cheap
hat they may be accessible to all.
We hail with delight the Amaranth,
Emerald, and Gem, and feel that they are
indispensable auxiliaries in this great work.
Let “ little children lisp his praise,” while
“yonthful voices sing his grace," and men
and engels join to raise loud “hosannahs to
his name.” Lot the sacred songs of Zion
be taught to our children that they may
keep out tho music of the Devil which, wel
ling forth from circus and theatre, ballroom
and drinking saloon, floats on well-nigh
every breeze, and poisons the very breath
our children breathe.
We submit the following resolutions.
Whereas, the General Conference of the Meth-