Below is the OCR text representation for this newspapers page.

142 Sautljcra Christian Jpbonfe. M A CON, GEORGIA, SEPTEMBER 5,1876 FORMAL FRATERNITV. We published last week a telegram an nouncing the conclusions reached by the Joint Commission touching Fraternization between the Methodist Churches, North and South, and below we give in full the Address the Commissioners send forth to the minis try and membership of their respective Cburche9. We have no hesitation in declar ing that we rejoice most heartily in the ap preciable advance which the action of the Commissioners makes toward healing the breach, and composing the unseemly strife which has so long existed between these kindred Communions. It may not be ex pected that universal satisfaction has beew given, and that all, in either of the Churches, -will coidially approve what has been done. The alienation has been so complete and so long-continued, and the prejudices and an tagonisms growing out of the bitter stride have acquired such robustness and intensity, that we may not hope that the breach will heal by first intention, or that all the angry passions born of a Thirty-Years’ War, will subside at the first authoritative wave of the wand of peace. Still, we believe that—the two Churches having submitted their pro tracted quarrel for adjustment to chosen men whom they respectively hold in high es teem for intelligence and godliness, and these Commissioners, after patient, prayer ful, and unreserved conference having unan imously agreed upon terms of pacification and fraternity—an immense stride has been made toward sweeping wholly from the eye of Christendom the unsightly spectacle of two great Christian bodies arrayed against each other in bitter and uncompromising hostility. It was alike the duty and interest of the parties to this controversy to select for its attempted settlement their most judicious and deserving men, and we have no reason to suppose that this was not done. Now, that these elect brethren, representing every phaze of sentiment on the pending questions, have had their conference, reached their conclusions, and adopted their plan of settle ment, it is no unmanly surrender for all to acquiesce heartily in their decisions, believ iug that with their superior facilities for a thorough and dispassionate canvass of the subject in all its length and breadth, they have done the very best possible for the glory of God, and the good of the Churches. And while we are not of a morbidly sanguine dis position, we believe this will be the case— not immediately, perhaps, but in the near future. The waves may still roll high for a rime after the storm is over, hut with the cessation of the agitating winds they gradu ally sink to rest. We commend the spirit manifested by the Commissioners through out their conferences, and pray that it may permeate and leaven all ranks of both Com We do not propose a discussion of the paper which we present below ; but there are one or two comments, which it may be nei ther untimely nor improper to make. From the stand point of Southern Methodism, the most prominent, and hitherto insuperable obstacle to authorized and cordial fraternity has been the disputed status of the Metho dist Episcopal Church, South. In view of all that had been said and done since 1814, so long as there was no definite and authori tative acknowledgement of our legitimacy, and consequent co equality as a brarffch of American Episcopal Methodism, both self respect and security forbade formal traternal relations. 15y the action of the Commission ers this barrier has been burn ed away, and no longer obstructs tile flow of fraternal Deling or hinders the indulgence of fraternal intercourse. The recognition is hearty, un equivocal, and authoritative: As to the status of the Methodist Episco pal Church, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and their co ordinate rela tion as legitimate Branches of Episcopal Methodism, each of said Churches is a legitimate Branch of Episcopal Methodism in the United States, having a common ori gin in the Methodist Eniacopal Church or ganized in 1784; and since the organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, was consummated in 1845, by the voluntary exercise of the right of the Southern Annual Conferences, ministers and members, to ad here to that Communion, it has been an evangelical Church, reared on Scriptural foundations, and her ministry and members, <ith those of the Methodist Episcopal Church, have constituted one Methodist fam ily, though in distinct ecclesiastical Connec tions. In an unprofitab'e discussion as to the correspondence of this deliverance with an tecedent declarations, the two Churches would doubtless employ different adjectives to qualify the word “right.” But this is of no consequence, in presence of the paragraph as it stands, and which is houorableatid sat isfactory, alike to both sides. The principles set forth for the adjust ment of conflicting property claims, seem to us equitable and righteous. Their applica tion will doubtless work hardships in indi vidual cases, but not more so for one side than the other ; and there will result, let us hope, abundant compensation for these ex ceptional burdens, in the general abatement of contention and strife. There are other points at which there has been friction, and doubtless will be still, but these will more rapidly disappear under the “peace-policy” upon which the Churches are now to enter, than was at all probable a short time ago. AH formal impediments to actual fraternity have been cleared away by the Joint Com mission ; let us hope that the good work so auspiciously provided for will not be de feated by jaundiced editors, and other wri ters of irreconcilable temper. But we have kept our readers long enough from the ADDRESS. To the Bishops, the Ministers, and the Mem bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Dear Fathers axd Brethren’ : We, the Commissioners appointed by authority of the General Conferences, respectively, of the above named Churches, to remove all obstacles to formal fraternity and to adjust all existing difficulties between them, deem it proper, in advance of our report to the General Conferences of our respective Churches, to communicate to you, in gener al terms,, the results of the recent harmoni ous session of our Joint Commission. Pursuant to previous appointment, we convened at Cape May, X. J., on the 16th day of August, 1876, and were favored by the attendance of all the members of both Boards of Commissioners. After a written communication from the Commissioners ot the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, was received and answered by the Commissioners of the Methodist Epis copal Church, both Boards met iu joint ses sion, the labors of which were continued during seven days. We have had a full and free conference and interchange of views respecting the im portant matters that claimed our united con sideration. If any in the Churches entertained the fear, previous to our meeting, that we could not attain complete harmony of sentiment touch ing the momentous questions to be determin ed, they will be rejoiced to learn, that after having given due attentiou to all questions involved in the proper construction of a plat form ot complete fraternity between the two great Branches of Episcopal Methodism in the United States, we have arrived a* the settlement of every matter affecting, as we suppose, the principles of a lasting and cor dial adjustment. We have the satisfaction to declare that our aspirations for harmony of views on vital points have been realized. By Divine guid ance, as we trust, we have been able, after a frank interchange of views, and prayeiful endeavor, to harmonize all differences, and to arrive at the desired consummation of a unanimous agreement of complete fraternity. We bel'eve that no principle of honor, on either side, has been invaded. We struck the key-note of brotherly love till it sounded high and clear, and so have been enabled to reach the elements of perfect harmony. No divergence of sentiment mars the complete unanimity of the Joint Commission touching the essential principles of fraternization. At the beginning of our consultations one great question seemed to overshadow ail others. It concerns the relation of the two Churches to each other arid to Episcopal Me’bodism. To this important matter our most earnest thought and prayerful delibera tion were first directed, and the result at tained occasioned the interchange of rejoic ing congratulations between the members of the Joint Commission. We adopted, without a dissentient voice the following DECLARATION AND BASIS OF FRATERNITY : As to the status of the Methodist Episco pal Church, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and their co-ordinate rela tion as legitimate Branches of Episcopal Methodism, each of said Churcheß is a legi tirnate Branch of Episcopal Methodism in the United States, having a common origin in the Methodist Episcopal Church organized in 1784; and since the organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, was consummated in 1845. by the voluntary ex ercise of the right of the Southern Annual Conferences, ministers and members, to ad here to that Communion, it has been an evangelical Church, reared on scriptural foundations, and her ministers and members, with those of the Methodist Episcopal Church, have constituted one Methodist fam ily, though in distinct ecclesiastical Connec tions. It was next incumbent on us to consider the questions concerning conflict'ng claims to Church property, and some special cases that could not conveniently be referred to the operation of a general rule. There were two principal questions to be considered with regard to the Church prop erty in dispute between local societies of the two Churches : First.—As to the legal ownership of said property. Second —As to whether it will consist with strict equity or promote Christian harmony or the cause of religion, to dispossess those societies now using Church property which was originally intended for their use and oc cupancy, and of which they have acquired possession, though they may have lost legal title to it by their transfer from the one Church to the other. We have considered the papers in all cases that have been brought to our notice. These arose in the following States: Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, Louis iana, North Carolina and South Carolina. In respect of some of these cases we have given particular directions ; but for all other cases the Joint Commission unanimously adopted the following: RULES FOR THE ADJUSTMENT OF ADVERSE CLAIMS TO CHURCH PROPERTY. Rule i. In cases not adjudicated by the Joint Commission, any society of either Church, constituted according to its Discip line, now occupying the Church property, shall remain iu-poseessio* thereof; provided' that where there is now, in the same place, a society of more members attached to the other Church, and which has hitherto claim ed the use of the properly, the latter shall be entitled to possession. Rule ii. Forasmuch as we have no power to annul decisions respecting Church prop erty made by the State Courts, the Joint Commission ordain in respect thereof, (I.) In cases in which such a decision has been made, or in which there exists an agreement, the same shall be carried out in good faith. (2.) In communities where there are two Societies, one belonging to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the other to the Meth odist Episcopal Church, South, which have adversely claimed the Church property, it is recommended, that, without delay, they ami cably compose their differences irrespective of the strict legal title, and settle the same according to Christian principles, the equi ties of the particular case, and, so far as practicable, according to the principle of the aforegoing Rule. But if such settlement cannot be speedily made, then the question shall he referred for equitable decision to three Arbitrators, one to be chosen by each claimant from their re spective societies, and the two thus chosen shall select a third person not connected with either of said Churches ; and the decis ion of any two of them shall be final. (3.) In communities in which there is but one society, Rule Ist shall be faithfully ob served in the interests of peace and fra ternity. Rule hi. Whenever necessary to carry the aforegoing Rules into effect, the legal title to the Church property shall be accord ingly transferred. Rule iv. These Rules shall take effect immediately. In order to further promote the peaceful results contemplated by this Joint Commis sion, and to remove as far as may be all oc casion, and especially to forestall all further occasion, for hostility between the two Churches, we recommend to members of both as a wise rule of settlement where prop erty is in contest, and one or both are weak, that they compose their differences by unit ing in the same Communion ; and in all cas es, that the ministers and members recog nize each other, in all relations of fraternity, and as possessed of ecclesiastical rights and privileges of equal dignity and validity. They should each receive from the other, minis ters and members in good standing, with the same alacrity and credit, as if coming from their own Church, and, without interference with each other’s institutions or missions, they should nevertheless co-operate in all Christian enterprises. It is not to be supposed in respect of some matters of mere opinion, that all ministers and members in either Church will be in ac cord ; but we trust and believe that a spirit of fellowship and mutual regard will pervade the reconciled ranks of the entire ministry and membership of both Churches. We be lieve, also, that their supreme allegiance to the cause of the Great Master, will triumph over all variation of personal sentiments,and will so exalt the claims of brotherly affection, that from this auspicious hour, anew epoch in Methodism will begin its brighter history, so that we shall know no unfraternal Meth odism in the United States, or even in the wide world. To all we commend the wise counsels given in 1820, to missionaries and members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and of the Wesleyan Connection in the Can adas by Bishop McKendree and the Wes leyan Committee —namely: Feel that you are one with your brethren, embarked in the same great cause and eminently of the same religious family, and if any warm spirits rise up and trouble you, remember that you are to act on the principles now sanctioned and SOUTHERN CHR BT IAN ADVOCATE. avowed by the two Connections, and not upon local prejudices. We cannot restrain the expression of oar united congratulations, to both of the great Churches, whose commissions we have exe cuted in uniting between them the broken cords of affectionate and brotherly fratern ization. Henceforth they may hail each other as from the auxiliary ranks of one great army. The only differences they will foster will be those friendly rivalries that spring from earnest endeavors to further to the utmost the triumphs of the Gospel of Peace. Whatever progress is made by the one Church, or by the other, will occasion general joy. They will rejoice in each oth er’s success as a common good; and, amid the thousand glorious memories of Method ism, they will go forward devoted to their one work of spreading scriptural holiness over these lands. Two by two the Apostles began the pro mulgation of Christianity in the world. They were companion evangelists, distinct in their several individuality, but they were, at the sane time, one in spirit, purpose and fellow ship. Their itinerant successors in the chief Churches of American Methodism, in res tored fraternity will vie with each other, to wave the banner of the cross in this Western World, and henceforth will proclaim that these Churches are one in spirit, one in purpose, one in fellowship. Astronomers tell us of dual-stars, revolv ing together in mutual relation and harmony, whose differing colors are so much the com plement of each other as to produce a pure while light of exceeding brilliancy. The dual Churches of American Meihodisrn will henceforth revolve in mutual fellow-hip and harmony, so much the complement of one another, as together to produce the pure and blended light, of Christian charity and fraternal love. These fraternized Church es have no further occasion for sectional dis putes or acrimonious differences. They may henceforth remember their common origin, pursue their fruit-bearing work, and rejoice in their own and each other’s suc cess, while engaged in the same great mis sion of converting the world to Christ. Distinctive features of profession and pol ity are bound up with the name of Episcopal Methodism. That form of Christian pro pagandism and ecclesiastical economy has peculiar elements of power and qualities of attraction, that commend its efficiency in proclaiming a pure Gospel to the world. Its cardinal doctrines of free salvation by faith, and of the witness of the Spirit, its scriptural articles of Christian belief, its primitive sys tem of Church government, its sententious demaud of those who would join its societies, its itinerant plan of preaching the Gospel, its Wesleyan simplicity and orthodoxy, its urgency of the practice of a holy life, its lib eral and systematic benevolence, its support of educational institutions, i's promotion of Sabbath school instruction, its vigilant care for the deserving poor, its provision for su perannuated ministers, their widows and children, its world-wide missionary enter prise, and its general activity in the dissem iuation of Gospel truth, are one and the same in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Far away in dark portions of the earth to which their missionaries have penetrated, a Divine light is breaking on the long night of paganism. For the elevation of humanity, it is more than the wand of an enchanter. There, as well as here, Methodist doctrines and usages wear their own peculiar and heaven-blessed distinctiveness, and seem to presage the dawn of that era of gladness when the claims of universal brotherhood will commingle with the full glory of the Millennium. Episcopal Methodism was never appeared to feel more the quickening im pulse of its glorious destiny than it does at the present day. It is eminently fit, therefore, that in its native home and wide-extended realm in these United States, whence its spirit and power go forth like swelling anthems of gladness, to bless mankind, it should bear along the blended sweetness of fraternal har mony. Then will its cadences roll down the ages enriched with the true spirit of the Gos pel ; for the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy: and the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. The flowing streams of Gospel truth, is suing from the depths of their sacred foun tains in the Holy Scriptures, as they are borne to thirsty thousands through the in strumentality of a called and qualified min istry, and mnde effectual to salvation, by the mighty working of Divine power, will in crease their assuaging freshness, when all the itinerant ranks of Episcopal Methodism shall move together in fraternal concord. Then, as chosen vessels of grace, may they bear the living water of salvation to all the world. Contemplating the prospect of com plete fraternity among them, we are led to look back to those inspiring scenes of prim itive times, when the company of the disci ples were of one heart and mind, steadfast in the Apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, hav ing all things common, continuing daily in the temple, praising God, and having favor with all the people. In completing the work to which we were assigned by the highest judicatories of the two great Branches ot Episcopal Methodism in the United States, we pour forth our united prayer for these kindred Churches in the language which inspiration has prepared for us, and say:—May the Lord of peace himself give you peace always, by all means. Now unto Him that is able to keep us from falling, and to present us faultless be fore the presence of his glory with exceeding joy ; to the only wise God, our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever, Amen. In the bonds of the Gospel of Peace, Your Brethren and Servants, M. D'C. Crawford. Edward H Myers. Enoch L. Fancher. Robt. K. Hargrove. Erasmus Q. Fuller. Thomas M. Finney. Clinton B. Fisk. David Ci.opion. John P. Newman. Robert B. Vance. Com. of the M. E. Com. of the M. E. Church. | Church, South. Cape May N. J., August 23 d, 1876. Randolph Macon College. —Dr. Duncan, writing to the Richmond Christian Advocate, says: “A letter from Dr. Blackwell, declin ing the Presidency of the College because the state of his health seems not to permit his acceptance of that office, renders it nec essary for me to address you a few words. The Board of Trustees have elected admira ble officers to fill the vacant chairs, and in due time will doubtless find one equally suitable for President. In the meanwhile I shall continue to discharge the duties of my office, at least till next Conference in No vember. The session will open, and all the classes, in my own, as well as in all other departments, will be organized and instruct ed as usual. Our new building will be com pleted very soon, and the accommodations of the College will be greatly improved. Let me urge upon all the old students of the last session, who have not finished their colle giate course, to return next session, and bring as many new Btudents with them as du ring vacation they can persuade to come. The high standard of scholarship, and the great ability of the corps of instruction, will be a sufficient pledge to all who desire a thorough collegiate education, that they can secure it at Randolph Macon,” A MAMMOTH SUNDAY-SCHOOL. In a recent letter from Philadelphia, we I mentioned “ Wanamaker’s Sunday school,” and intimated the purpose to give some far ther information concerning it: and notwith standing a correspondent has since written interestingly on this subject, we may revert to it again without wearisomeness to our readers. The Bethany Sunday-school—with the reg ularly organized Presbyterian Church which has sprung from it—is very largely the crea tion of one man ; and its marvellous ity and success are mainly due to the enthu siam and zeal inspired by his personal super vision and labors. This devoted and singu larly successful “Sunday-school man,” is Mr. John Wanamaker, the most extensive Clothing merchant in America, if not in the world. Mr. Wanamaker is the publisher of the Sunday school Times; and though that journal devotes a reasonable portion of' its space to advertisements, and is one of the very best advertising mediums in the coun try, and though Mr. W. fully appreciates and" avails himself of the advantages of adverti sing, so scrupulous is h about seeming in any way to make his Sunday-school zeal tri butary to his pecuniary interests, that you will search the Times in vaiu for any men tion of his vast business. The Sunday school, which was originally a purely missionary work, is located in what was, at the time of its inauguration, a most dissolute and depraved neighborhood. But the healthful influence of the School, and o'.her reformatory agencies set. in motion by. Mr. Wanamaker and his coadjutors, have wrought a complete revolution throughoW the entire vicinity, and changed its whole social and moral aspect. The exterior of the Sunday-school building is by no means prepossessing, but its internal arrangements are by far the most complete, and best adap ted to Sunday school purposes of any we have ever seen. It is a spacious stone struc ture of irregular shape, capable of searing a vast crowd. The “class forms” are curvilin-' ear benches, the teacher occupying a chair in the open space of the semi- circle, fronting 1 the pupils. There is an ample platform, upon which is the organ, and a desk for the Superintendent, and from the bar of this the “forms” rise by regular gradations to the opposite end of the building. From the cen tre, a neat fountain sends up jets of water,' which purify and cool the atmosphere. By an elaborate arrangement of glazed parti tions, this entire portion of the building can* be made a single audience-chamber during the opening and closing exercises of the school, and then converted into a number of, sound proof apartments, during the time foi* recitation and instruction. The tiny chairs and low benches in the Infant Class apart” meat, indicate the considerate for the comfort of riie wee lambs of the fold. Extensive galleries provide large accommo dations for visitors, but they are not adequate for the multitudes that seek admission from Sabbath to Sabbath ; at least such was the case on the two Sabbaths that I visited the School. There are Reception Rooms, for the convenience of teacheis and pupils, for depositing hats, cloaks, umbrellas, etc., when entering the school; a Depository well sup-, plied with Bibles and Testaments, which ars( sold to members of the School at prime co3jjj Lecture Rooms, for religious services oi various kinds throughout the week nights; rooms for Sewing Circles, and Social gath erings ; and a large hall, used sometimes for gymnastic exerciseH, and when as a dining hall. All these rooms, except the last mentioned, are neatly carpeted, and furnished. In the basement of the building is a kitchen, provided with a range, ar and all other conveniences for a complete department. l Attached to “ dumb waiter” for elevating the dishes to the floor above. Upon enquiring of the courteous janitor who conducted us through the building, the design of all these ments, he explained that almost weekiy, and often several times a week, some of the classes have reunions, embracing a supper, or refreshments of some sort; and that with these facilities furnished them, they are en abled to have their entertainments at greatly reduced expense, and ut.der the conscious influence of the School. The beneficial re sults of thus providing for social enjoyments, which otherwise would be sought in ques tionable places, are incalculable; and at the same time it has been found to contribute considerably toward swelling the member ship of the school. We were informed— whether corr- ctly or not, we cannot say — that this building was erected at a cost of $50,000, and that the amount was furnished by Mr. Wanamaker himself. It was our misfortune, on both occasions that we visited this model School of about. 2,600 memberf, to be too late (or observing the methods pursued in conducting the ex ercises, so that we can give no account of them. On each occasion, it was near the close when we entered, and Mr. Wanamaker was making an address, based upon the les son for the day. He is comparatively a young man, of prepossessing appearance, talks sensibly, but with a drawling, sing song utterance and intonation, that to a stranger are anything but pleasant. It is plain to see, however, that his whole heart is in his great work, and that he is the main-spring of this vast establishment. After the session, of the School is closed, and the pupils are dismissed by classes at a tap of the Superin tendant’s bell during the singing of a hymn, “ twenty minutes by th i watch” are devoted to prayer, and speech- naking, in the inter est of this particular school, and the cause in general. We have g.ven a very meager idea of this devoted man, and the glorious work he is accomplishing, but we have written as much perhaps, as will be read with patience in this hot weather, and we close this imperfect sketch by saying to our readers, that any of them have occasion to spend a Sun day in Philadelphia, they cannot'employ the afternoon more pleasantly or with greater profit, than at the mammoth Sunday-school, on 22d Street, near the corner of South. Yellow Fever.— This dreadful scourge has made its appeal auce in Savannah, and the population, during t l e past v eek, has been leaving by thousands. The repoits are so conflicting that nothing is certain beyond the fact that the fever is prevalent, and that there have been, by the lowest statement, ten or twelve deaths. Most devoutly do we pray that our sister city may be spared such a vis itation as has scourged it in forn er years. We invoke on the part of our people earnest prayers for the safety of our ministees there, and their families; and that the Lord would graciously avert the threatened calamity from the entire community. Our Monthlies. —Such is the pressure upon our columns that we are compelled to omit our usual notice of the interesting mag azines that come to our table. We hope to, be able to publish lists of the contents of their next monthly issues. We also have several books on hand, which publishers have kindly sent us, but it has been impossi ble for us to read them, and hence the delay in noticing them. We hope to catch up be fore a great while, and then to do justice to all parties. Thomasville, Ga.—Rev. J. 0. A. Cook says in a note, August 28: “We have just closed a good meeting. The Church greatly revived, and twenty-six added to the mem bership.” STRANGE BLUNDERING. We have been astounded and then amused at the misconception of the Cape May nego tiations, by many secular papers North and South. The way was prepared for this gross blundering by the intelligent Agent of the Associated Press, who sent flashing along the wires all over the land the unauthorized and unfounded statement that the Commis sioners have “agreed on a basis of union.” Considering the superficial investigarion usu ally accorded to ecclesiastical matters, it is *ftot strange that notwithstanding the plain text of the address, the glaring error should gain currency, and that the reckless news mongers should spread it with the startling head line, The Methodist Churches Re united. The question of union was not, and is never likely to be, a subject of negotiation between these two Churches. While they have a glorious history in common, and are -substantially agreed in their scheme of doc trines, and mainly in their polity, they en tertaiu views on some constitutional ques tions so radically different as absolutely to forbid their consolidation. In their separate it is possible for them to main tain their respective views and still live in peace and fraternity ; united under one eccle siastical government, perpetual str fe, end ing in another violent rupture, would be the inevitable result. Fraternity and union are I wholly distinct; these two Churches may i now fraternize, it is not probable they can ; ever unite. To Correspondents. —We have several on hand, which are delayed tor ■want of room, but which we hope to pub' Plish before long. i We beg our brethren and friends who have | sent us obituary notices, to believe that we j are publishing them as promptly as po-sibie, : and without the least parliali y as to the or j der in which they appear. There is a fear i ful accumulation of these notices in the j office, and the delay in publishing them is I absolutely unavoidable. We repeat, for the : satisfaction of all who grow restless in wait ling for the appearance of notices of this kind that they have forwarded, that each obituary notice is endorsed with the date upon which it is received, and that they pass into i the printer’s hands in the precise order of | their reception. Owing to the number and I length of the notices sent for some time back, we h ive fallen grievously behind, not withstanding an extra column of space has been accorded to this department. If breth j ren could conceive of our embarrassment and tribulation in conducting this depart- I ment of the paper, they would not “ fuss at I us,” we feel sure. But our difficuliies at this point transcend their ability tocouceive, j so we try to endure their complaints meekly ' and with patience. SOME NORTHERN METHODIST EDI TORS. It is hard for a Northern man to under stand us of the South, and, we sadly fear sometimes, harder still for him to feel true brotherliness for us in his soul. Much of Northern love for us looks very like “ love of enemies,” But it is harder still for an av erage Northern Editor to “reflect” South ( erners justly in his paper. But it seems [hardest of all for the Northern religious pa- Cpers to be fair and just. Here we wish to say, for nearly all of them : we believe they wish and intend to be both. But it is a hard task. In the first place, they are a long ways off and know very little about us. Again, they are perpetually victimized by “report ers” in the South, who have a great stake in making a case against us. For instance : we happen to know that a most estimable Editor of an old and leading Northern Meth odist paper received letter after letter de- Mjhrriftg that the, recent Hamburg inassaerfc, deplored and denounced by all good men everywhere, was but a poorly managed affair, designed as part of a plot to terrorize the negroes in South Carolina and to carry Gen. Hampton into the Governor’s chair by force I and fraud ? And how it was iterated and re iterated till our learned and, as we firmly be lieve, truly Christian friend, the Editor afore said, was much inclined to believe and ac cept this theory of the shameful affair ! The *men who wrote the bitter and wicked libel the whole white population of South Car olina, have a political interest to serve. If they can only get the Northern Republicans, the Northern Christian public, and the Gov ernment, to accept their theory, why it gives them a better chance. We will entertain our friend, the aforesaid Editor, to the best of our ability all next winter, if he will come down here and study the race question with his own eyes. Of three things we complain, and rightly. First, our Northern Methodist Editors are not as careful as they should be f in receiving the assertions of men so far away fas are some of their reporters of Southern outrages; secondly, the Northern people do not take sufficient pains to inform themselves about the reality, the “bottom facts,” in the South. There is this notable difference: the Northern people, as a class, read no South ern newspapers—Southern people do read the papers of the North. Our Northern friends may say they like their own better. Granted, but they should not set themselves up in judgment upon people whose affairs they do not understand. Thirdly, they pub lish ex parte statements and too often refuse to publish in our favor even so much as the condemnation of outrages that our papers do express. Some of them not only won’t copy, bat hurl anathemas at us for “sinful silence.” And when their attention is called to what they should have seen without help, they— that is some of them—if they go so far as to admit that some of our papers have denounc ed the Hamburg massacre, put in a “dead fly” by railing at what they call “tardy ut terances!” It is one goqd quality in most | Southern Editors, that they wait to know Lthe facts before they approve or denounce, fit is a little old fogyish, but it seems to be ‘ the better way. ■ In relation to this deplorable Hamburg \ affair, several of the leading papers of the ■ M. E. Church, have done our Church press [ the justice to let Northern Methodists see I that we do not approve any sort of outrage [ upon our colored fellow-citizens. But we [ cannot say as much for them all. We yet [ wait to see if some of them will not do us | “ tardy justice.” One of them commands our gratitude. The New York Methodist has taken special pains to vindicate our Church press from the cruelly unjust charge of sinful silence in the Hamburg matter. We trust that this recognition of Dr. Wheeler’s jus tice to the Southern press will not lead Dr. Fuller to suspect him of sympathizing with the rebellion. For our part we really wish to see true Christian fraternity established between the two great Methodist Churches in the United States. But, really, if we are as bad as some of them say we are, what can they want with us? How can they fraternize with us? .What can they do with us, unless they put us in the penitentiary ? And what can we want with them if they judge us without evi dence, condemn us without law, denounce us without distinction, refuse us opportunity to say we also denounce outrages aud crimes ? If what they say is true; if what they say is false, what can we do for or with each other ? We cannot believe that these Editors tell conscious falsehoods. We do believe that those whose editorials have led to this article are good and honest Christians. And, there fore, we hope to do them good when we say, plainly but affectionately: Brethren, you are ! too suspicious; too quick on trigger—you go off half cocked ; you are too willing to be lieve hard things of us; you do not publish news fairly; you are too susceptible to re ports of conspiracies and treason; you do not give us a fair chance to be heard in de fence ; you are too apt to slap us in the mouth if we speak up and deny that we are all bad men ; you do not love us enough. You may retort, “Nor do you Southerners love us enough.” True, censors, brethren, but we are trying hard to love you all: we are making some progress ; we are “growing” in this “ grace ;” we wish to “go on” to the “ perfection” of genuine Christian—and, if you please—Methodist fraternity. But, pray, don’t give us such fearful kicks ; don’t call us such frightlul names. It is easy to abuse us ; but abuse is not strong writing. Nor is it useful. H. Oxford. Corrcsponkitte. SUNDAYS FROM HOME. On the second Sunday in August, and the week previous, I attended the Jonesboro District Conference, Rev. George Stewart presiding. It was held at Johnson City, seven miles from Jonesboro, on the railroad. The Conference was very well attended by the delegates and preachers. There was a greater number of local preachers present than usually attend such gatherings in our country. The office is rather a nondescript in onr Church government. They come neither under the head of preachers nor of laymey. In some senses they are the one. and in other cases they are the other. It is a source of perplexity to many. When the General Conference in 1870 was called upon to define their status, they declined so to do because they didn't know how. At every returning District Conference the question comes up, and in every case no satisfactory conclusions are reached. There is one point that might be smoothed at least. The pro vision in the discipline for the election of delegates to the Annual Conference, un doubtedly discriminates against local preach ers. It says four are to be elected, one of whom may be a local preacher—no neces sity of electing one, however. Yet, by the verbiage, it absolutely prohibits the election of more than one. But this is a discussion of a question foreign to my purpose. The District Conference is the same every where us to its work. The object of the General Conference was to leave it unhar nessed, and to be governed at the will of the presiding officer as to its mode of business. Brothe'- Stewart showed himself equal to the emergency. The procedure to elicit in formation was the common method adopted among us at home, but he shut himself off, by committing the various subjects to com mittees. This method has its objections, and serious ones, in my estimation. The most important objection was exemplified at this Conference. It was the reading of the reports of the committees just at the close of the session, when everybody was anxious to adjourn. There was an admirable report on Finances and Church property. It was listened to by the members with seeming in difference, and was adopted without a mo ment’s consideration —eliciting no discussion —and then consigned to the hands of the secretary, never to see the light again. N>t a man, perhaps, in the Conference had given the subject a moment’s thought, save the chairman of the committee. That was the end of it. And so it is with half the reports of committees of deliberative bodies. It is so to a great extent in our Annual Confer ences. The better plan is to have the dis cussion over at once, when the subject is brought up, especially in these District Con ferences; as nothing fchey do is fcindirg— their entire action being recommendatory. This Conference, however, was a success, as all the interests of the Church were look ed into, to the extent that allotted time would allow. The same deficiences that are so apparent and so alarming at home, I found existing here. Personal piety is not so distinct as in other days. Family reli gion is waning woefully— not one-third of our heads of families keeping up the family altar. In consequence of this, inconsisten cies mar the Christian profession—home in fluence lost, and children bringing many grey heads in sorrow to the grave. This I found true here, as well as in Georgia. Ear nest exhortations were given, and many for mal resolves made. Another characteristic of a Methedist preacher was observable. Some men —good men too, and men that preach well, seem never to know anything about their work. You ask them a simple question about the interest upon their circuit or station, and they preface the answer with a miserable “ perhaps,” or “ about.” They know noth ing definitely. This is simply inexcusable. A man that has sense enough to preach, surely has sense enough to become acquaint ed with the business connected with his work. But it seems that some men will never learn. Among the visitors introduced to the Conference were two Northern Methodist preachers. They were received kindly, and invited to seats within the bar, which they accepted, and remained interested specta tors during the entire session. Practical fraternity already exists between the two bodies in this country. Strange that it should, after such fierce con'roversies have taken place between them. But so it is. They opeu their doors to entertain our Conferences, and the fearful wrangles that have separated them seem to be among the things that were. A few of the older ones retain their prejudices, and refuse to com mune with the members of the other Churches. At this Conference I met with Dr. E. E. Wiley, President of Emory and Henry Col lege. This institution belongs to the Holston Conference, and is one of the most flourish ing colleges in our connection. Its patron age extends from Maryland to Texas, and the past year has been one of success. I know of no other school —if our people of Georgia will persist in sending their sons out of the State to educate them —than Emory and Henry, where so complete an education can be obtained for so small an outlay. It is located in the mountains of Virginia, on the railroad, just eight miles from Abing don. The location is high and healthy—the coarse of instruction thorough, and discipline firm. I had also the pleasure here of meeting your excellent friend, Dr. Warren DuPre, President of Martha Washington Female College, located at Abingdon, Va. Although anew President, he convinced the brethren of the Conference that he was uo stranger to the duties devolving upon him. He made a very effective speech to the Conference on education ; and on Sabbath afternoon a most excellent and instructive one to the Sunday school children. He won the hearts of both preachers and people during his stay among them. The institution over which he is called to preside has a very flattering prospect for its opening in September. It is a good school, and worthy of extensive pat ronage. Your confrere of the Holstou Methodist, Rev. R. N. Price, was also on hand, and de monstrated the fact that he not only knows how to get up a good paper, but can do many other things as well. He preached us two instructive and effective sermons, and gave a Sunday-school talk, aud got quite a num ber of subscribers to his jpaper. He is an industrious worker, and is held in high es teem by his brethren. Dr. Wiley preached a fine sermon on Sun day morning in our Church it is said. I was as unfortunate as another man I know of, and was sent to the Presbyteri in Church that morning, and I didn’t wear a high silk hat either. The preaching that I heard was good, but lacked the fervor and pathos that used to characterize the preaching in this country years ago. It was certainly more intellect ual, but not more effective in moving hearts. The Sunday exercises were full ot interest, and a very profitable day to me. It will not soon be forgotten. Last Sunday, August 20, was a quiet day in the village, with the usual Sunday ser vices, conducted by the writer. In my last article you make the types call my good brother D. W. Carter, D. W. Cos ter —a mistake more in the fault of the writer doubtless than the printer. S. S. Sweet. QUARTERLY CONFERENCES. Dear Brother Kennedy: The third ses sion of the Quarterly Conference for Dub lin Circuit, and Laurens Mission, was held at Darsey’s Church, on Saturday, August 6. The Presiding Elder, brother Sentell, preached on Saturday and Sunday, and brother Williams on Saturday night. Both preached with power and demonstration of the Spirit, and I hope did much good. The meeting was very interesting ; but as the ob ject of this communication is not to give an account of the meeting at Darsey's, I will say nothing more in Regard thereto. While on my return from this meeting and reflecting on the services I enjoyed so much —and so many of the official members seem to underrate the Quarterly Meetings— l conceived the idea of writing this article. I esteem it a great privilege to be permitted to attend these meetings and could not do without them. The Quarterly Conference proper, the preaching, the love feast, the prayer-meeting—all have a hallowing influ ence, and tend to build up and strengthen the inner man. My faith is increased, my mind enlightened on the doctrines and usages of the Church aud as to my duties, and I am encouraged to go forward in the discharge of all my Christian obligations by the influence of the Quarterly Meetings. The duties of the members of the Quarterly Conference are very peculiar and trying to their faith, and hence they should seek all the information and encouragement within their reach. Brother steward, is it a great trial for you to ask your neighbors for quar terage for your pastor ? and are you at a loss to know how to discharge this important duty ? If so, attend every session of the Quarterly Conference, and the trial will be greatly lessened and your mind enlighten ed. Brother superintendent, are you per plexed and tempted to give up the Sunday school because the brethren are careless and indifferent and will not give you their assist ance ? Then be faithful and do not neglect any of your duties. I have been a member of the Quarterly Conference for several years, serving the Church in different posi tions, and if I have displayed any efficiency as an official member, I owe it mostly to the influences of the Quarterly Conference. It is almost impossible to do only a part of your duty well. If you wish to succeed in one office, try to excel in all. Resolve to be faithful in all things, and never hesitate when you see your duty. W. Dublin, Ga. EDGEFIELD CIRCUIT, SOUTH CARO LINA CONFERENCE. Mr. Editor: This circuit is situated on and north of the C. C, &A. Railroad. It is courporfed of ftmr- churches, has a pleasaitt and well furnished parsonage, a membership of three hundred and sixty, and offers a fine field for work to the earnest, live preachers of our conference. The people generally live well, and see to it that their preachers have a comfortable living. The country is under considerable excitement just now, and great hopes are entertained that the dark night of disaster and gloom overhanging us so long is to give way to a bright and happy day, when white men shall again rule our fortunes, and its norma! condition be restor ed to our once happy land. How refreshing to know that in these times of excitement and peril, the power of the Gospel is felt and acknowledged, andßinners are convicted of sin and converted to God. Two weekß ago I wrote you concerning the delightful meeting at Harmony church. Since then we have had two others, both successful —if we may indicate success by large congre gations for five or six days, many mourners at the altar earnestly pleading for salvation, some who were backslidden reclaimed, and some of the brightest conversions I ever wit nessed. The first of these meetings was held at McKendree church, where we had the help of brother J. C. Counts, and where we gathered into the fold of Christ seven pre cious souls. The same number connected themselves with Spann’s church, where bro. J. A. Clifton gave us help for one day. Both these brethren have endeared themselves to my people by their labors during these meet ings and at previous seasons of grace, and will always find a warm welcome in Old Edgi field. One conversion at Spann’s church affected me as deeply as any I ever saw. It was a poor woman, far gone with consumption, too weak almost to attend the sanctuary, but tremblingly approaching the altar for prayer, and whispering to her pastor, amid sobs and tears, “ I haven’t long to live—the doctors say I can’t live twelve months; I am not ready to die: pray (or me.” OI that pallid face, and that pleading cry, and that hacking cough, in that circle of mourners. Can I ever forget it ? Never! Nor will I soon forget the joy that shone on her happy face wften I closed the meeting on Wednes day to go to the District Conference at Bates burg, and she bade me good-bye with these words, “ I am happy now —God bless you for your prayers.” Oh, precious Gospel of Jesus! the antidote for all our sorrows, the solace for all our woes, it is rest to the weary, medicine to the sick, and life to the dying. It suits all classes and conditions of human life, offers an experience of abiding joy to all, and a promise of a coming inheritance, incorruptible, undefiied, and that fadeth not away. Geo. F. Round. Edgefield, S. C., August 17, 1876. Blairsvii.i.e Mission, North Georgia Con ference. — The Rev. T. J. Edwards writes August sth: “At the Dohlonega District Conference, the committee recommend ed that two new missions be formed within the bounds of the district, one of which to be known as the Hiwassee Mission. During this year I have been giving all the time I had to spare from my work to this neglected portion of the mountain country, known as Towns county. We have had no preacher here since the war. We have now three or ganized churches in the county,and territory yet unoccupied. On the fifth Sunday in July and Saturday before, I commenced a two days’ meeting at a place called Many forks, and the Lord graciously revived bis Church and people, and the shouts of new born souls were heard in the wilderness. The membership of the Church increased. The meeting continued seven days and nights. Bro. J. H. Sensabaugh, of the Holston Conference was my yoke fellow in the meeting. We are in the heat of the bat tle and the work goes on.” VOLUME XXXIX., NO. 36. is it so : A cry for the revival of the spiritual pow er of Methodis'm is heard in every quarter. It is acknowledged to be the greatest need of our Church. How shall it be answered ? What hindrances oppose the diffusion of the Spirit’s power? Will someone give a plain, but well con sidered reply to this question : Have not financial or temporal interests been allowed to encroach upon ihe spiritual work of Meth odism ? No meeting is now without its col lections for colleges, missions, or like pur poses. Of course such interests must be attended to, but would it not be better to devote some other time than that appointed for revivals ? Offerings must be made, but might not persuasions to this duty and priv ilege draw heart and mind from the plea for reconcileatiin to Christ? W. August 22, 1876. NORTH GEORGIA CONFERENCE. The last session of this body resolved to meet this year in Sparta. This greatly de lighted the Church here. They have long wanted the Conference to convene at this place. It will afford them real pleasure to entertain the brethren. It will require, how ever, our best endeavors to do so. Our town is small, and the number who can accommo date members is quite limited. We will have no spare room for mere visitors. Our hearts are willing to take them, but our dwellings too few and small <o do juslice to all at the same time. Several families are already embarrassed, because kin-folks and dear friends have annoancf-d their coming at that time. If our Visiting friends cannot be prevailed on to postpone their purpose to see us then, some other place will have to take care of the Conference. Wait, friends, till the Conference is provided for, and then we will let you know if we can take you too. Sparta, Aug. 16. G. H. Pattillo. CROSS PRAIRIE MISSION, FLORIDA CONFERENCE. Part of the territory of this mission was cut off from Orange circuit at our la a t Con ference and brother .John 11. Sansbery, a local preacher, was appointed to serve it. Toe Bishop requested me to visit the work arid assist brother Sansbery in organizing and carrying it on —a request with which I have complied as far as possible. Ou Sa’urday before the fifth Sunday in July, we commenced a protracted meeting at Shingle Creek—a place at which a revival of religion had never been known. There had been preaching there for several years, and quite a number bad joined the Church, but only a few were converted. For two months previous to the meeting, we prayed that the Lord would visit his people, and make bare his arm in the conviction and conversion of sinners. We were not disap pointed. The meeting progressed for two days and two nights with but little apparent interest; but, on the third day, the Chris tians were powerfully revived, and many them shouted praises to God in the highest. Though anew thing to some, it seemed to have a magical effect upon all. Several came forward for prayers. The first person con verted was a man near seventy years old. His youngest daughter was also converted, and they joined the Church together. Avery large and prominent family, several of them members of the Church, had had a family difficulty, and they were not enjoying the meeting. The Christians, through the grace of God, were enabled to bring about a re conciliation, and at the close of one morn ing’s services the father and children met in the altar, shook hands, and embraced each other. It was a most affecting scene, and seemed to give anew impetus to the meet ing, which continued for nine days. Many hard hearted ones who had never bowed be- fore, came forward for prayers, and prom ised never to cease seeking until they found the Saviour. Several were happily convert ed ; many who had never been fully satisfied with regard to their acceptance with God, found assurance ; and five joined the Church. Thus closed one of the most powerful meet ings ever known in this county. This mission embraces part of Orange and Brevard counties, a stretch of country of about seventy-five miles in length and thirty or forty in breadth. In places it is very thickly populated, and, as a general thing, by a people who are not able to pay much towards the support of the Gospel. Brother Sansbery is the only Methodist preacher. He has no horse and has to walk to all his ap pointments, except as he can borrow one. The Conference is only able to pay him forty odd dollars missionary money, and the mis sion will, perhaps, pay fifty. The people are anxious for preaching, and willing to do all they can to support a preacher. They are almost destitute of preaching, as can be seen from the above statement, and have been so during the past. Will not something be done for this part of our beloved Florida? O. W. Ransom. Orlando, Orange co., Ha. OGLETHORPE CIRCUIT, SOUTH GEOR GIA CONFERENCE. Mr. Editor: To the friends of our com. mon Zion, and especially to those who feel a personal interest in the religious welfare of Oglethorpe, it will no doubt be interesting to hear that the Lord is doing a great work for this people. Our meeting, protracted now sixteen days, has most powerfully re vived the Church in all its membership. Few times in my ministry have I ever seen a Church so stirred up to a proper apprecia tion of obligation and duty to work for God in the salvation of souls ; and promptly and with one heart and mind coming up to the “help of the Lord,” the Lord has done a great work for them and the community. Up to this time 23 have joined. It was an interesting sight yesterday; Sabbath) evening to see the people in wagons, buggies, and car riages, pouring in to witness the beautiful ceremony of induction into the Church of this large class of new members. And in that class might be seen some of the most prominent citizens of Macon county. Broth er Potter, a most indefatigable worker, called off to conduct other revivals at other points in the circuit was with us only a few days, in the beginning of our meeting Rev. H. R. Felder and Rev. J. L. Gibson, M.D., two most glorious workers, have contributed largely to the results of the meeting. The meeting is still protracted. To God be all the glory. Amen! S H. J. Sistkunk. Oglethorpe, Ga., August 21, 1876. Greenville, S. C. —The Rev. I. J. New berry writes August 10th: “I have just closed a very interesting meeting at Asbury Chapel, which commenced on Friday, August the 4th, and continued five days. God was with us in prayer. Souls were converted, and the Church greatly revived. Some of the brethren tell me that the Church has never enjoyed such a gracious outpouring of the Spirit. I think the future is bright for Asbury Chapel. We had six accessions to the Church. Eatonton, North Georgia Conference. Rev. R. W. Bighatn adds to a private note of August 15 : “An intense, pervading revi val of religion, now in this place. To date, twenty-one have joined the Church. The young men hard at work iu it; the Church alive to God; brother Andrews aglow with the power of grace.” Atlanta, Ga.— Rev. W. C. Dunlap writes August 21st: “ We are having a glorious re vival at Evans chapel. Have entered our second week. We are workiug and believing for hundreds of conversions. Pray for us.”