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Southern Christian Rotate.
MACON, GEORGIA, SEPTEMBER^,IB77
IS IT SO i
Our esteemed and usually judicious con
temporary of the Southern Presbyterian lays
down a proposition in the last issue of that
valuable journal, the patent corollary of
which we feel sure he would be very far
from affirming. In an article commending
the claims and reciting some of the achieve
ments of the Theological Seminary at Co
lumbia, S. C., notably the numerical growth
of Presbyterianism in South Carolina, Geor
gia and Alabama, he Bays : “ We do not say
that this increase is altogether due to the in
creased number of ministers in these Synods.
Yet, God works by means. Men do not be
lieve without the word, and the word is not
heard unless it is preached, nor do men
preach unless they are sent; and while the
sending is Christ’b own special office, He has
not been wont to send in any age those who
were not trained by a fitting education, and
for the most part in schools not very unlike
in their important features the Seminary of
which we speak." The italics are ours, and
are employed to designate the assumption
to which we demur —assenting as we do most
fully to the rest of the paragraph. But is
this so? Emphatically as the affirmation is
made, and by one, too, who is not accus
tomed to writing at random, we feel no hesi
tation in affirming the contrary with equal
emphasis. From the time of His personal
ministry on earth till now, Christ has called
his ambassadors and sent them forth without
any reference to previous educational train
ing ; and it is not wild to assume that the
proportion of scholastically trained minds
in the apostolic college, represents fairly the
average numerical relation, in every age, of
those who were educated before entering
upon their sacred mission, and those who
responded to the divine vocation without
being trained by any such “fitting educa
tion’’ as theological schools impart—the
former being, now and all along, as then, in
a very lean minority. The call to preach
carries with it the solemn obligation to con
secrate all one’s powers to the exalted work,
and every one to whom “ a dispensation of
the Gospel is committed” is bound, as he
values his own soul, to “study to show him
self approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not to be ashamed.” But this is
subsequent to his divine commission, and
has nothing to do with his selection by the
Master for the work of the ministry. If it is
argued that the untrained fishermen and tax
gatherers of the Saviour’s day acquired
“fitting education” from the personal in
structions of Christ himself, it will hardly be
denied that, even with such a Teacher, they
had no distinct apprehension of the work to
which they were called, and little or no
fitness for it, until after the ascension of the
Master, and the descent upon them of the
“Spirit of truth," of whom it had been
promised. “He shall guide yon into all
truth.” Apart from the advantages which
these primitive advocates of Christianity
derived from miraculous gifts, and being
■eye-witnesses of the Resurrection, they were
dependent upon and were indebted to pre
cisely the same means for “fitting educa
tion” that are accessible to the men of to
day, who, feeling, “ Woe is me if I preach
not the gospel,” have no access to “ schools
not very unlike in their important features
the Seminary” at Columbia, viz: the Word
of God, and the interpreting Spirit vouch
safed in answer to fervent prayer.
We are far from under-estimating the
value, and indeed, the indispensable neces
sity for the very best education for every
minister that is within his reach ; and we do
not hesitate to express the conviction that a
man who carries the credentials of a Chris
tian minister without diligently improving
his opportunities to acquire “fitting educa
tion” for his momentous work, is not only
criminally derelict, but—demonstrates his
total unfitness —moral as well as education- 4
al—for the sacred office. But while this is
onr faith, we are just as far from believing
that such education as theological schools
impart is either indispensable to success, or
is in auy sense a condition precedent to being
sent of Christ as a commissioned laborer
into His spiritual vineyard. In the absence
of any supporting scripture, the history of
Christianity abundantly refutes any such
assumption, and teems with illustrations to
contradict it. Methodism as a distinct and
marvellously successful form of evangelism,
was born and cradled in a College, aud has
been from the beginning of its career the
advocate and patron of education. Yet,
while requiring its ministry to prosecute a
liberal course of study through a period of
years, and according to learning its dtie'
prominence as a factor in ministerial effi
ciency, the public opinion and the policy of
the Church have alike sanctioned the prac
tice of issuing its credentials to those who
furnish satisfactory evidence of having been
called to preach, without requiring previous
“ fitting education ” as a proof of the call.
If the success of those sent forth from the
venerable and truly noble institution at Co
lumbia may be cited to vindicate its claims
to Divine approval, surely we may be per
mitted to appeal to the marvellous, if not
matchless, success of Methodism as an evan
gelizing force, in proof of the Divine appro
bation of its theory and practice in the
matter of ministerial qualifications. But if
the assumption in the paragraph upon which
we animadvert is true, then it must be equally
true that a large majority of the so called
ministers who have been instrumental in
achieving the wonderful work of Methodism,
(not to mention those of some other denomi
nations, and not a few wise and useful men
in the Presbyterian ministry,) must have en
tered upon their work without being sent by
Christ. Well may we ask, Is it so?
Parker’s Cams Meeting.— From Rev. G.
G. N. MacDonell we learn that the services
at this annual gathering were interesting and
profitable. There were about ten accessions
to the Church, and a larger number pro
fessed to find peace in believing. We were
deeply pained to learn from the same source
that sister B. F. Breedlove, the accomplished
and devoted wife of the pastor of that
charge, is in rapidly declining health, and
that little or no hope is entertained of her
final recovery, while there is much reason to
apprehend an early fatal termination of her
disease. For her great suffering there is
compensation in the sweet submission with
which she is enabled to endure it, and the
buoyant confidence with which she awaits
the issue. The testimony of those who
know is, that in enrapturing communion
with her Saviour, she realizes that though
the “outward, man perish, the inward man
is renewed day by day.” Devout supplica
tion will go up from very many hearts that
sustaining grace may still be vouchsafed to
both the suffering wife and the sorrowing
husband.”
Another. — Mentioning last week the
names of several of the recent graduates of
Emory who had been called to eligible po
sitions as teachers, we failed to state, that
Robert W. MacDonell, the eldest son of our
esteemed, friend, Rev. G. G. N. MacDonell,
had been chosen as the assistant of Mr. J. H.
Roberts, in his flourishing academy at
Waynesboro, Ga. Our young friend, res
ponding to a divine call, has choßen the min
istry for his life work, and while spending a
year or so in the school room,will exercise his
gifts as a preacher, by occupying the pulpit
tn Waynesboro, every other Sabbath. We
congratulate Mr. Roberts, and also the
Church at Waynesboro, upon this admirable
arrangement.
PROPERTY DISPUTE SETTEEI).
We learn from the Southwestern Christian
Advocate, that in Accordance with the sug
gestions of the Cape May Commissioners,
the Church property in the city of New Or
leans, which has long been in dispute, and
which aggregates in value, it is said, some
thing over $20,000, has passed from the
field of controversy, the titles having been
formally confirmed to the M. E. Church.
We have no doubt that the equities of the
case have been met by this action, and if so,
there is real reason to rejoice in the settle
ment. The editor of the Southivestern closes
his account of the negotiations and settle
ment with this paragraph :
“We wish here to record our high appre
ciation of the frank and brotherly spirit mani
fested in this whole procedure by Dr. Linus
Parker and Dr. J. B. Walker, Presiding
Elder and pastor, whose advice aud approval
were necessary by the disciplinary enact
ment, and also to W. H. Foster, Esq., and
Mr. Walnwley and their associate Trustees.
The settlement of this property dispute is a
long step toward a full and generous fraterni
ty between the two Churches in this city and
State.”
BISHOP MARVIN SAFELY AT HOME.
The St. Louis Republican of a recent date,
has the following paragraphs, which will be
read with great interest:
“Bishop E. M. Marvin, of the M. E.
Church, South, who has been making the tour
of the world, arrived in this city, Wednesday,
August 22d, by the morning train from New
York, where he arrived by steamer on Satur
day afternoon. The bishop made the trip
from England in seven days which was said
to be the quickest trip ever made across the
ocean. He is looking remarkably well, and
reports that he fortunately had an entire
freedom from accidents of travel during the
whole trip around the world, and never miss
ed connection with vessel, car, or other con
veyance, on ocean or land.
He has been absent just one year, and it is
a notable circumstance that he left St. Louis
just one year ago yesterday, on August 21,
1870. He remained for some time on his
way out at San Francisco, holding confer
ences on the Pacific coast. He started from
San Francisco, November 1, going directly
via Japan to the China missions of the Church
at Shanghai, where he held a conference with
the missionaries and ordained native preach
ers.
Subsequently he made a tour of inspection
of missionary work for practical ends through
India and Syria, Turkey and Egypt, thence
passing through Italy, Switzerland, Germany,
Holland, France, and across the channel to
Great Britain, visiting England, Ireland and
Scotland.
At Bristol, in England, Bishop Marvin
atteuded the British Wesleyan Conference.
His presence there was in an official capacity
as the representative of the Met hodist Church,
South, to that conference, having been em
powered by the College of Bishops at their
meeting in Nashville, Tenn., in May last.
He was received cordially.
His visit to the conference, it is expected,
will result in the establishment of fraternal
intercourse between these two bodies of
Methodism. His address before the confer
ence was replied to by Dr. Puusbon on be
half of the conference, who, at the conclu
sion of the address, moved the appointment
of the committee to consider the question of
sending a representative of the British Con
ference to the General Conference of the M.
E. Church, South, at its approaching session
in May next, at Atlanta, Ga.”
Rev. Thos. Sumter Daniel. —Just before
going to press, we received through the
Christian Neighbor, the sad intelligence of
the sudden death of this esteemed member
of the South Carolina Conference, on Mon
day, the 27th of August. He had preached
the day before, and seemed in usual health
within a half hour of his death, which was
supposed to result from disease of the heart.
Bro. Daniel had been "connected with the
Conference for forty-one years—with the
exception of a period of ten years spent in
the local ranks—and had borne an unsullied
reputation for ministerial fidelity and purity
of personal religious character. During the
present year he has sustained to the Confer
ence the relation'-of a superannuate. ‘The
summons was sudden ; but ths blamelessness
of his useful life, and the uniform trustful
ness of his devout spirit, assure his brethren
that he passed, without a pang, into the
presence of his Redeemer, and now wears
the crown promised to him that overcometb.
Rev. J. D. Anthony. —We learn with
sincere regret from Dr. Clark, that Bro. An
thony has been desperately ill, and at last
accounts was still in a very critical condition.
We earnestly hope that skillful medical at
tention may be blessed of God to his recov
ery, and that his valuable life may be spared
yet many years to his family and the Church.
OUR SEPTEMBER MONTHLIES.
Harper’s Magazine, always among the
first to appear on our table comes freighted
with the following fine list of articles, many
of them profusely illustrated. The standing
editorial departments, as is uniformily the
case, are crowded with interesting matter:
The Lading of a Ship; The Domestic and
Artistic Life of Titian; General Stark and
the Battle of Bennington ; Snow Storm on
Mount Shasta; Ma’mselle—A Story; Tom
Moore in America ; Large Schools versus
Small; A Late Wild Rose ; Prince Edward
Island ; Ali —A Poem ; Shadows—A Story;
A Group of Classical Schools ; The Pastor’s
Reverie; Popular Exposition of some Sci
entific Experiments—Part VI. Concerning
Thermometers; Erema; or, My Father's
Sin ; American Workmen from a European
Point of View ; A Visit to a Country-House,
aud what came of it —A Story ; Waifs from
Motley’s Pen ; A Railroad Study.
Scribner’s Monthly maintains its pre
eminent rank among American monthlies,
and furnishes every guaranty, in the enter
prise of its publishers and the ability of its
writers, that it is determined to hold on to
the foiemost place it has achieved in the
periodical literature of the Western Conti
nent. Besides a great number of shorter
interesting papers, the current number con
tains eight leading articles, which are illus
trated by ninety-eight wood engravings.
St. Nicholas, which, in a shorter period,
has passed to the same relative rank in the
juvenile literature of the country, presents
the following table of contents for Septem
ber: Young Folks’ Fun in Central Park;
Gone Astray ; A Butter Cup ; Drummer
Fritz and his Exploits; The Fair-Minded
Men who Walked tc* Donahan ; Robbie
Talks; An American Circus in Brittany ;
The Stars for September; Thistle Puffs;
Panchey; How I Went a-Drumming; Jin
gles; Our Master; His Own Master, chaps,
xxxv-xxxvii; Peter’s Rabbit Hunt; School
Luncheons; For Very Little Folks; Jack
in the-Pulpit, etc., etc.
The National Repository.— Dr. Curry,
whose distinguished talents shone so long
and brilliantly in the editorial conduct of a
weekly religious newspaper, that he was
supposed to be exclusively titled for that
position, is demonstrating from month to
month the versatility which responds with
best work, to whatever demand is made upon
him. The Repository steadily grows in in
terest and beauty, the current number Bur
passing any of its predecessors; and Dr.
Curry’s reputation as a Magazine editor is
rapidly rivaling the fame he acquired through
long years of service on the tripod of the
Christian Advocate. The “ Editorial Mis
cellany ” of the Repository is always charac
terized by very marked ability; and while
we frequently find in it sentiments to which
wefcanuot subscribe, and sometimes, utteran
S O UTHEKN CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE.
ces which harshly antagonize our own views,
we never fail to admire the vigorous and in
dependent thought of the —as we believe —■
thoroughly honest editor. We wish the Re'
pository abundant prosperity.
Golden Hours is a handsome and most
judiciously conducted magazine for the young
folks —instructive, entertaining, clean. The
September number, which is embellished
with a cut of the “Ruins of Kenilworth”
for a frontispiece, and other illustrations,
ha 9 the following reading matter: Sykkie;
General Peg and her Staff; The Animals of
Paris; Short Talk on Glass, III; Among
the Fishes; The King’s Cousin; Outdoors’
Boy; Luther’s Daughter Magdalene; The
Guardian Angel; The Boy-Life of Mozart;
Bruin on a Lark; Owl-dom.
The Galaxy, which, though from its
monthly issue ranking as a Magazine, really,
by virtue of its contents, holds an interme
diate position between the Magazine and
the Review, is in our judgment one of the
best publications of the day. Its contribu
tors are of the very best, and its contents,
judiciously varied, are of the highest order
of merit. The following is the bill of fare
it spreads for September: Has the Day of
Great Navies Passed ?; Philosophy ; Inez
De Castro; The Temperance Question ;
Lucia Bertonelli; After the Fall; Venice ;
Les Chatimento; Three Excursions ; Miss
Misanthrope, chapters xxxi-xxxiii; Your
Pearls; Americanisms ; A Chapter of Oddi
ties ; The American Army ; The Municipal
Debt of the United States; Drift-Wood;
Scientific Miscellany ; Current Literature ;
Nebula?.
The reprint of Blackwood's Magazine
for August has been received from the Leon
ard Scott Publishing Company, 41 Barclay
street, New York.
Besides the serial stories, “Mine is Thine”
and “Pauline,” which are each continued
at considerable length, there is an article on
Victor Hugo, embodying a rapid review of
the “ Legendes des Siecles,” which is de
clared to be a magnificent poem, aud short
criticisms upon his novels, beginning with
“Notre Dame.” Admitting that he is a
great poet, the writer pronounces that he is
more likely to live in his novels than in his
poems.
The pleasant, gossipping “ Wanderer’s
Letters” are continued, and this number
gives a sketch of the career of Murat as
King of Naples.
“The Storm in the East—No. Ill,” con
denses the war news up to the 20th of July,
aud gives a better conception of the progress
of the campaign than can be gathered from
the hasty perusal of the fragmentary bul
letins in the daily papers, which not unfre
queutly contradict the assertions of the day
before.
The North American Review. —We have
not yet received the September-October
number of this splendid periodical, but are
informed that it will contain a timely article
on “The Recent Strikes,” by Thomas A.
Scott, President of the Pennsylvania Rail
road Company; also one entitled “ Fair
Wages,” by “A Striker.”
THE SESSION OF is:}?.
Chance threw in our way recently a copy
of the “Minutes of the Georgia Annual Con
terence, held in Athens, Ga., December
1837.” It is a small affair of 10 pages, with
nearly half a page of “errata” pasted in.
Seven pages and a half are taken up with the
Missionary report. There are two pages of
Statistics giving “numbers in Society” and
the amounts collected for Missions and the
“Conference fund.” There are no statistics
of salaries, value of Church property, or of
many things we report on now a-days. It is
possible that in 1837 they thought too little
of statistics; it is possible that in 1877 we
carry this business of statistics too far. Some
of our Conference blanks are nearly as elab
orate as the United States Census. They
had not much to report; possibly there is
danger that we take over much pride in our
reports. Soiree Conference statistics always,
remind us of David’s census of Israel. That
numbering was not a means of grace to
David.
This little pamphlet has some modern
features; maybe they are also ancient—nearly
two pages of resolutions. Some of them are
still passed by our Conferences, still publish
ed, still forgotten, overlooked, or somehow
unkept. For instance: they resolved that
the Missionary collection should be taken in
every congregation in the month of May.
Another resolution reads: “That the atten
tion of all our preachers be directed to that
part of the Discipline where it says, ‘Let the
Lord’s Prayer be used on all occasions of
public worship in concluding the first prayer,
and the Apostolic benediction in dismissing
the congregation.”
Like exhortations, directions, resolutions,
have been falling on Methodist ears from
the time of John Wesley till this day and the
majority perhaps wind up their "first pray
er” and dismiss their congregations as they
judge best. Somehow it is hard to make
Methodists uniform. Perhaps after all it
were better so than to be too rigid—too set
in our ways —too much alike. But some
improvised benedictions are excessively
awkward and ill-timed.
It will give opportunity for comparison of
“the good old days” and our “degenerate
times,” in one respect at least, to copy the
course of study, revised that year as a foot
note informs us. We give the examiners
also.
“Ist year.—The Bible with reference to
Clarke’s, Benson’s or Watson’s Commenta
ries, Watson’s Dictionary. English Gram
ma and Fletcher’s Appeal. Committee—
Wm. J. Parks, J. Norman.
2nd year.—The above with the Discipline,
Wesley’s Sermons and Watson’s Life of
Lesley. Committee—E. Sinclair and W.
D. Matthews.
3rd year.—The above with Watson's In
stitutes. Committee—G. F. Pierce and 8.
K. Hodges.
4th year.-—The same as the third, being a
summary review of the whole. Committee—
L. Pierce and I. A. Few."
Wehavecopied literally. Ofthese worthies
two only remain—L. Pierce and G. F. Pierce.
This copy of the “Minutes” begins ab
ruptly with the first question, “Who are ad
mitted on trial?” There is not an intima
tion as to whether there was a Bishop or a
Secretary. Nineteen were received on trial.
Ot these one abides in the itinerancy to this
day—a venerable and godly superannuated
preacher—the Rev. Clairborne Trussell, of
the North Georgia Conference. Among the
thirteen remaining on trial at this December
Conference in 1837, we find the names of A.
T. Mann, Josiah Lewis, J. P. Duncan,
Walter R. Branham, J. E. Godfrey. John
W. Glenn was “admitted into full connec
tion that year,” and appointed presiding el
der of the Cherokee District—having come
into the Conference as an elder. Os the one
hundred and one who received appointments
at this Conference all are dead, we believe,
but twenty-four. The itinerant ministry
tries men’s bodies as well as their souls.
This mill grinds fast and fine. Only a week
ago we heard of a beloved brother who thinks
of joining the itinerant ministery, although
he is past filly years. Don’t do it brother,
you know not what you ask. It would be
an unkindness to you to admit you.
There has been progress in numbers at
least since this Conference in 1837 met in
Athens. Then the Georgia Conference em
braced all of Georgia and accessible Florida.
There were, all told, of white members, 23,-
869; of colored, 7,123, and of local prtgich
ers, 310. In 1865 in the same territory there
were of white members of the M. E. Church,
South, 68,830 ; of colored members, 26,515;
of local preachers, 618. The North Geor
gia Conference alone now reports of white
members, 55,933. Add the numbers in the
South Georgia and Florida Conferences (we
have not their Minutes at hand and speak
from memory) and the sum total of white
members in the territory embraced by the
old Georgia Conference is fully 100,000. Our
Methodism in this territory has increased
much faster than the population—not count
ing the 26,515 colored members that, in
of the numerous divisions of colored Meth
odism, still represent our work and Gcd's
blessing upon it. Has New York Method
ism (we venture to doubt) increased in the
last forty years as rapidly as Georgia Meth
odism ? And yet long editorials are needful
in Northern Methodist Advocates to keep
the zeal of our beloved brethren there to-the
right pitch for evangelizing these benighted
regions. By the way our Northern brethren
had better try a mission in England. Meth
odism there is not increasing as fast as Meth
odism in the Southern States of the Union.
At least we humbly suggest that our breth
ren invent new reasons for “pushing-the
work” down South.
But this unpretending little pamphlet, "dis
colored and worn, has started remembrances
and meditations that may not be written out.
It was our fortune to be born two years after
this Conference of 1837 met and to have
known and honored in childhood and youth
nearly every one of the chief fathers thatjje
longed to that time. Our father’s house was
a preacher’s home. Many times we blacked
their shoes, brought their saddle-bags fnto
the house, watered their horses (and many
of them had famous good ones whose speed
we are afraid, we were sometimes tempted
to try) and other things we were glad to do
for them. And here let us write it with
reverent gratitude, many counsels, aud many
blessings we had from these holy men. Bless
ed be their memory. H.
Oxford.
Corrcspikna.
LETTER FROM CHINA.
Dear Bro. Kennedy: If you can find
room in the Advocate for the enclosed letter
from Rev. Alexander Williamson, L.L. D.,
member of the London Missionary Society,
and Agent for the Scotch Bible Society in
China, I shall be obliged. The letter speaks
for itself; and as I have his permission lo
use it in such way as to create a livelier in
terest in the enterprise to which it refejp, I
send it to you for publication. T do so for
three reasons : Ist. Because of the informa
tion contained in it. 2d. That my frienda.
may know something of the character and
importance of the work I have been doing
the past ten years, in trying to establish and
provide a periodical literature in China. 3d.
Because I would like to see more interest
manifested in this department of missionary
labor. What I particularly feel the need of
is proper illustrations. The Chinese are
nothing more than adult children in many
respects, and a few good illustrations won
derfully enhance their interest in the papers
as well as contribute no little to their value
and ready acceptance, besides rendering
many subjects easily intelligible, etc., etc.
Several friends, from time to time, have
promised me cuts and pictures, but not one
has yet been received, though they have
been solicited often, promised, and waited
for long and impatiently. I shall not, ask
pictures of your readers, but if they rcan
spare a few dollars wherewith to get them
made here, I shall be exceedingly gratified
and obliged. Anything you may be abAp to
do for me in this matter, I shall estemfi a
great favor. Brother J. W. Burke will fe
mit any contributions that may be received
on this account. I hope my Georgia^Ath
ren and friends will remember me.
With kindest regards, believe me yours
fai’hfully, Young J. Ai.lei;.
Shanghai, China, July 16, 1877.
My Dear Mr. Ai.i.en : I have thought a
great deal over the conversation we enjoyed
together while I was under your hospitable
roof, regarding the Periodical Press in China,
and I am more than ever convinced of the
importance of strengthening and extending
our Christian newspapers and serials, for
alas I we have only one newspaper which
contains both religious articles and the news
of current events, and that is your own.
The case appears to me thus: For long
years, in the mysterious providence of God,
China was “hermetically sealed,” to use
the old expression, against Christianity. In
1843, four ports were opened ; in 1861,
other six were agreed to, and, in addition,
liberty was granted to traverse the country
far and wide under passport. Last year,
four new ports and six calling-places were
further conceded, and the Province of Yunan
and the route to Burmah settled, thus giving
us eleven new inlets for Divine truth into
the most remote portions of the Empire.
The whole of China, therefore—North,
South, East, West, aud centre —is thus
thrown free to our efforts ; or, rather, three
hundred millions of our fellow-men are
placed before the Church of God for evan
gelization. Truly God has more than an
swered prayer 1 and it now rests with the
Church to rise up to the magnitude of the
work, and Christians to realize the weight of
the responsibility now placed by God upon
their shoulders. There is no shirking this
fact. We men of this generation have got
to deal with China, or answer for our neg
lect.
There is one circumstance, which, in the
providence of God, greatly facilitates our
work, and enables us, with a comparatively
slender instrumentality, to reach numbers
of the masses and do great good. Consider
ing that the Chinese are a heathen nation, a
most extraordinary proportion of the people
can read ; and, what is more to our purpose,
they all read the same characters. Thus a
book in simple “ wun li," will tell in every
province in China; and not only so, but also
in Manchuria, Mongolia, Thibet, Corea,
Japan, Cochin China, and in multitudes of
islands of the sea, for all officials in the
neighboring kingdoms, and every one who
professes to boa scholar, must be able to
understand the written language of the coun
try. What a mighty power the Press thus
becomes 1 No wonder some thought books
alone were needed to regenerate China I Well,
the scriptures, and books and tracts, have
heen tried, and have done no small amount
of good in many places, but are now palling
on the taste of the people. Another phase
of literature is therefore called for. Millions
among them are now awake; they are crav
ing after a knowledge of the outside world
and the news of the day. Steamers ply
regularly to all quarters, and they carry our
letters and papers carefully, and if put 911
board by us, without any expense. These
things Burely point to a periodical literature.
And so they do. We find that where a tract
is refused or sueered at, a newspaper or
magazine—especially if illustrated—is ac
cepted with the greatest pleasure, and most
carefully perused. And not only so, but the
articles and news contained in them form
a passport into families and high quarters
where our religious books would never be
received. Thus, just as medical skill enables
our medical missionaries to find access to
places from which others are excluded, so
with the religious serial. I therefore believe
this branch of our work has now come to the
front and demands our very best considera
tion. The Chinese need a new literature,
and they need a pure literature; and if we
lag behind, unbelievers will occupy the
whole field. They have already commenced.
Several daily newspapers are now conducted
in China; and I have before me a catalogue
ol a series of books of light literature being
issued by a native, some with foreign help.
The matter is most serious. We must bestir
ourselves. There are many reasons why we
should. There is no body of men in’China
so well qualified in every way to create such
a literature and carry on the Press as the
missionaries. The people believe in us, and
would prefer our publications—all things
considered—to others. They turn from their
own newspapers and books to ours to ascer
tain if what is published there is true.
No man can more thoroughly believe that
the first and chief duty of a missionary is
“to preach Christ and him crucified ” than
I do, and the longer I live the more am I
persuaded of the paramount importance and
blessedness of this duty. Tbjp; Press is, how
ever, an auxiliary, and a mighty auxiliary.
The Chinese know nothing of God, nothing
of sin. and nothing of the need of newness
of life. These ideas 1 have to be crea'ed in
the mind before the gospel can be received
intelligently. The Press will help that as
well as the living voice It therefore pre
pares the way. , Again, in the altered state
of circumstances, there are multitudes of
questions arising every now and then—po
litical it may he, or social—but nevertheless
powerfully affecting the reception or non re
ception of Christianity. These require to he
dealt with by us, and just as we manage to
help the Chinese toward a right view of the
case, will we further or retard our religion.
Moreover, our converts need a medium of
intercourse, which the “serial” alone can
supply; and through this they can greatly
strengthen one anothers’ hands. We have
religious newspapers at home, and a blessed
boon they are I What could we do without
them? and who does not look back with de
vout thankfulness to their pages ? Can it be
wrong to have in China what is so precious
in England or America? In all missionary
spheres we adapt our work to the exigencies
of the people. We provide the Africans
with seeds ; we teach the South Sea Island
ers the arts, and so on. The Chinese are a
book-loving and book reading people; they
are amenable to all literary .iqffort. Why
should there be any objection to the “peri
odical,” which has within these forty years
transformed the very face of society in our
native lands ? What is there to prevent its
working the same grand results in the Flow
ery Land as it has done elsewhere ? Os
course, the matter requires to be probed.
The Chiuese know nothing of periodical lit
erature, in our sense of the term. A taste
must be created. This requires money, and
learning, and considerable effort, and not a
little patience. But the consummation is
certain. Just as sure as Chinamen are men
with all that natural curiosity largely devel
oped, so snre will periodicals gain the day,
and the Press will rule China as it rules the
West. Witness Japan with I know not how
many newspapers of various kinds. I hope,
therefore, you will not get unduly discour
aged. I know you are losing money, but I
feel sure this will not continue ; for it is
most unfair not only that you should give
time and strength to this work, but actually
suffer pecuniary loss. The circumstances
need only to be made publicly known. You
also think that many of the missionaries are
apathetic. But it is not so. It is the want
of thought, not of interest. They are so
engrossed with their own special work that
they dare barely lift their eyes from the field
before them; but once get their ear, and
show them the case, and you have their sym
pathy at once. Your periodical has been in
reality a great success ; and the circulation
ip siiph influential quarters, both in China
aud Japan, as in all the Boards in Japan
and the palace in Peking, is certainly a
great achievement. Therefore go on in the
strength of the Lord, and He will crown you
with His blessing.
In the preceding remarks I have been
speaking more in reference to the “serials”
in existence. But you know Igo further. I
believe the time has come when we should
have a powerful “ Daily ” in China, worked
from a Christian stand-point. The Chinese
language in the far East holds an analagous
position to the English language in the
West. We therefore need a “ Chinese
Times,” —another “Thunderer,” which
shall place true and righteous views of pub
lic questions with skill and wisdom before
all the various courts, officials, and men of
learning and authority from Peking to Siam,
and from Luiehoo to Central Asia. This is
already practicable, and postal communica
tion is improving every year. Why should
not such an enterprise be started ? All
we need is money. Is there no man in
Christendom willing to devote a portion of
his fortune to such a noble purpose? I
know of nothing more imperatively called
for, nothing that would wield so wide and
( so blessed an influence as this; and no way
in which a wealthy man could more bene
ficially spend bis means than by the institu
ting and working of such a paper. If there
be any scheme of more importance or more
promise in the world, I should like to know
what it is I Three hundred and sixty mil
lions of people to work on, besides the adja
cent countries I
There can be no manner of doubt about
the success of such an enterprise. There
are missionaries at the various ports and in
land stations who would willingly send news,
and do what they could to promote the cir
culation of the paper, both at homo and in
their journeys. The paper would thus at
once be placed on a broader basis than any
other in China. This would draw advertise-,
ments; it would not pay for
some years, yet it ultimately would clear
expenses.
When I see men giving most liberally to
commence and carry on any periodical to
advocate certain special, and some sectarian
views, I often wish 1 had them here, to show
them how much more nobly they could ex
pend their means. Many of our devoted
Christiau friends at home don’t know and
never think about such a means of philan
thropy. Perhaps you may be able to bring
this subject before the whole Churches of the
world, for it well deserves attention. The
value of the Press in China, in every aspect,
cannot be over-estimated.
Yours cordially,
A. W. Williamson.
Chef oo, July 4th, 1877.
Senoia Circuit, North Georgia Confer
ence.—Rev. J. T. Curtiss writes, August
28ih: “I promised to report the result of
our meeting at Tranquil, which continued
nine days, resulting in a general revival of
the Church, a number of conversions, and
seven accessions. The work of revival is
thorough and genuine. On yesterday morn
ing (the 27th,) we closed a good meeting at
Cokesbury Chapel of ten days duration,
which resulted in a general revival of the
Church, a number of conversions, and twen-
accessions. Considering the cir
cumstances, these three meetings just closed
were considered the best enjoyed here for
many years past. 1 had the Rev. George
Edward Smith as my co-laborer in these
gracious meetings.”
COLUMBIA FEMALE COLLEGE.
Mr. Editor: A9 our session opens on
September 27th, and as there seems to be
much more interest manifested in reference
to the Columbia Female College, and as
many inquiries are received as to terms,
prospects, etc., I ask the favor to state,
through your columns, that the leading fea
tures, as to terms, are to be found iu the
circulars, advertisements, and catalogues.
Letters are regarded ns generally answered,
therefore, by sending one of these docu
ments; but should there be any particulars,
not well understood, it will be more fully
explained on application.
As to the prospects of the College, friends
are writing us encouragingly. A member of
the South Carolina Conference writeH, that '
“ We are going to fill your College with pu
pils before the expiration of six months.”
This is the way to talk, and it has the riug
of the true metal in it. There is but one
correction wanted in the quotation. It
should be "our" insteid of "your" Col
lege.
During the scholastic year, just closed, 99
pupils have been enrolled in the Collegiate
and Preparatory Depart ments, and 23 in the
Department of Physical Culture, (the last
named not being otherwise connected with
the College,) thus making a total of 122.
The prospects for next term seem to be
good, as inquiries, in reference to the Col
lege, are being received almost daily. The
curriculum has been amplified ; n -w features
have been, and wilt be, added, until the
College becomes, really, a Polytechnic In
stitute, which is much needed at the Seuth.
Friends, we trust the darkest davs for
South Carolina have passed. Kind Provi
dence htys blessed us with abundant crops
and fresh hopes, then fore let us take new
courage. We have earnestly endeavored to
do our whole duty to all concerned, which
seems to be recognized by an appreciative
public. Let the friends and owners of the
College no tiieir duty, not only to the Col
lege, but to God, the country, themselves,
and specially to each other, and all will be
well. J. L. Jones,
President C. F. C.
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN.
Mr. Editor: An under graduate of the
North Georgia Conference, was asked by the
examining committee “what is a mountain?”
“A piece of ground," he replied, “consider
ably up.” It is the answer with “consider
ably up” underscored. So I thought a few
days ago as, accompanied by Dr. Craven,
seeking rest and finding none, I pulled my
self up Lookout peak by shrub and rock and
fissure to the huge sandstone wall that, like
the old Spanish crown, bands its dizzy won
drous head lest it drop over into the chasm
of the Tennessee river 1800 feet below.
Scaling the perpendicular crown by way of
a fracture deepened into its grooved side, we
stood upon its purplish rim. The forest of
tree and rock, through which we had ascend
ed, whispered up to us as straggling sun
beams through the clouds yet above us shat
tered upon its brows. The winding river,
half a mile wide, Beeming to us less than a
hundred feet in width, gleamed, from its
banks of valleys of corn in the abyss, like a
silver girdle in mold for the mountain god
Away, away, hill, gorge, mountain, lay at
rest in the clouds, and under the clouds,
sun-clad, in shadow, hidden, seen as the
gathering rain-storm thickei and, thinned,
marshaling along the heights to leap in
to the valleys. Eastward, three or four
miles, Cha'ta ooga. dintrv with furnaces,
flanked by classic battle-ridges, painted, in
memory, with heroes’ blood, dreamed and
toiled and sinned—and repented too, for a
Methodist revival was moving its heart at
that hour. As we gazed, a raindrop splash
ed softly upon our cheeks as though it had
stooped but a little from its misty chariot to
warn us to shelter from its legions of com
rades coming just after it. So we got upon
the pedestial of a shelving rock near the
brink and were safe from the storm. As we
chatted, a rumbling, westward, voiced furbe
low us, and was echoed again and again con
tinuously, and we leaned over the sandstone
crag to see the train bound along the railway
at its base, hut far nor near was it seen. And
my little three years’ old girl, two hundred
miles away, laughingly leaped into my mind
saying, as she is wont to when it thunders,
“that’s God a talkin’ now; don’t you hear
him?” And so it was God a-talking. For
as we looked the doctor said, “It is not the
cars but thunder echoing in the gorges.
There ! it peals again below us like a mighty
battery masked in yonder defile. When our
army checked the Yankees here we had
heavy guns planted on this height. Down
that wooded ridgey bank of the river—the
other side, a yankee battery of small guns
worked its way and fired into the mountain
side in every direction. Its company soon
discovered that we could not depress our
guns enough to endanger them, and they
fired away anyway like fiends on a bender.
Father lived down there where the house is
now a thousand feet below us. They amused
themselves by making a target of the house.
Some of their balls battered against the rocks
near, some went screaming over it, some
ground through the yard scattering rubbish
everywhere, and some tore off fragments
from the house burying in the mountain
higher up. Father and mother were some
where about consulting whether to move or
stay. Grandmother Cunningham (mother
of Rev. Dr. C., of Tennessee Conference)
who always had an eye to business, bad car
ried the churn behind a rock dairy against
which several balls had struck without dam
age, and sat quietly churning as though the
yaukees were a thousand miles away. My
brother in-law, M., one of the kindest men
on earth, with myself, was sitting in a room
reading a paper—a sick soldier was in an
adjoining room. Every once in awhile as a
ball howled over the house, I said to M..
‘we had best move our position.’ He would
say, ‘I wont. Let’em shoot.’ He was mad;
I could see that, though I had never seen
him out of temper before. Presently a ball
smashed something close by. He looked up
from his paper, and said, ‘lf I just had a gun
that could do it, I’d fire into the whole tribe of
yankees and kill the last one of ’em at one
shot.’ I said, ‘Let's move from here.’
He said, ‘I wont, I tell you.’ Bat he did;
for just then a ball crashed through the next
room, and he leaped to his feet. We went
into the soldier’s room expecting to find him
torn in pieces, but there he stood near the
mantle looking as careless as though he wish
ed he were dead, while his cot, that he had
left hut a lew moments before the cannon
ball came, was knocked into fragments.”
“Where was Mrs. Cunningham while the
cannon-balls w ere going about crazy so?” I
asked :
“Grandmother!” he replied, “why, Bhe
was not bothering about them; she was still
sitting behind the dairy-wall churning butter.
She wanted us to have something good, and
fresh, and sweet, and pure, like her precious
self, dead or alive.”
. And I turned from the doctor’s face, pull
ed off my hat, stepped out into the storm,
peered down toward the white house that was
on the site of the old one the yankee guns
tore into shreds, and thought, “how sublime
a being is a grandmother, too good to be
afraid, so pure that her heart can never grow
old, but is fresh, and sweet, and true with
love, and care tor others’ happiness forever 1
This mountain is grand and lifts the soul
nearer God, but there clung to its side amid
the roar of battle on its crown and base an
aged woman sublimer than itself and ; ts bat
tles, only little less than an angel—God bless
ed forever.” And down into the depths I
peered toward the mountain bench where she
had talked with God and cheered weary
hearts, but I saw it not. The rain-storm had
lowered from the heights into the valleys,
and covered with its cloud everything from
crag to base, eastward. The eve could no l
penetrate it five feet below the crag's rim.
There it rolled and swam at our feet, a white
sea, covering with its impenetrable mists
every object from the eye. And thickening
and whirling here and there within itself
wherever currents of wind beat about in its
mystic depths, it strove to turn the point of
the mountain to fill the western valley, but
1 the wind met it and pushed it back again and
again, till it turned northward its mighty
waves ot white vapor and noiselessly floated
out—on? over abyss and cliffs, and crags, we
know riot whither. But somehow it could
not conceal grandmother Cunningham. She
would appear to me down there in the cloud
a live memory of grace that could never
perish in the death sea where she sleeps
waiting—waiting till the Lord shall awake
her in His likeness.
Sheltering again with the doctor under the
shelving rock, for the rain now thickened on
the peak, we held a prayer-meeting just with
out the line where the wind was saying to the
cloud, “hitherto shalt thou come, but no
further,” and God was with us.
R W. Bigham.
REVIVAL AT CENTENARY.
Mr. Editor: It has recently been my hap
py lot to attend what might with propriety
be termed a religions feast. Centenary is
located in the good old county of Marion,
about nine miles south of Marion village, in
a most flourishing and pleasant section,
where the inhabitants enjoy the privileges
and advantages of cultivated society, good
schools, and productive farming lands.
Our meeting commenced July 24, and
ended August 6, and during this time “onr
cup of joy” was full to overflowing. We felt
that the lines had certainly “fallen to us in
pleasant places," and that ours was “a good
ly heritage.” The meetings both public and
otherwise, were well attended; the people of
all ages, and sexes seemed inspired with a
holy zeal, toward reviving the Church, and
pushing forward the conquests of King
Emanuel. Quite a goodly number signified
their earnest desire to cast in their lot with
God’s people, and among them, many young
persons who have taken this opportunity to
devote the period of their vigor and prime to
the glorious service of the Master. At the
concluding evening’s service sixteen mem
bers were received into the Church and par
took of the holy sacrament at the hands of
our beloved brother, and pastor, J. W. Me
Roy.
The ministers who participated with us in
the good work were: J. W. Mcßoy, pastor,
W. B. Baker, E. L. Sweet, and F. W. Leg
gett-all of whom seemed to feel the respon
sib’lity of saving souls.
I would not close this imperfect letter
wit hout adding a heartful expression of grati
tude to the good brethren and sisters of Cen
tenary and vicinity for their exceeding kind
and hospitable reception, and entertainment
of us during our sojourn in their midst. Our
stay was passing pleasant, we were bounti
fully supplied with the comforts and good
things of this life, and parted with the fervent
prayer that our Heavenly father would ever
bless this people “in basket and in store,”
and guide them safely to the better land.
That the Holy Spirit may still conlinue to
pour out his blessings in copious showers,
and crown with abundant success the late
efforts for the advancement of his Kingdom
is the prayer of G.
Lynch'x Creek, Marion county, S. C.
FEE DEE CIRCUIT—SOUTH CARO
. 1. nr a conference.
Mr. Editor : The Lord has been with us
on this Circuit from the beginning of the year.
I have ten appointments, and no assistant
ipreacher. I commenced in the early-part of
the year with the Sunday-School, and suc
ceeded in having quite a revival in that de
partment. We have ten Sunday-Schools, and
over five hundred officers and scholars con
nected with them. I have been trying to
have these Schools properly guarded, and
have destroyed the old catechisms of all de
nominations which I found in some of the
Schools, and furnished them with our own
text-books and literature. The result has
been satisfactory. More money has been
contributed for Sunday Schools this year
than for many years past.
I found a debt on the Parsonage of about
$200.00, but in a few weeks I think it will
all be paid. The ladies say they will have
it nicely furnished. We are trying to build
two new churches, and have three others
repaired and finished. With all this to do,
we are hard pressed ; but there is a determi
nation on the part of the Churches to meet
all claims this year.
Success has attended the preaching of the
Word, and at some of ray regular appoint
ments souls have been converted to God.
Our beloved Presiding Elder, Rev. H. A. C.
Walker, is always at hand when the roll is
called, presiding to the satisfaction of all,
looking carefully to all the interests of the
Church, giving good counsel, and preaching
with great earnestness and zeal.
Our third Quarterly Conference met with
R ehoboth Church. The attendance was
large, aud the business transacted to the
profit of the Church and all present. I con
tinued the meeting seven days, with grand
results —forty six united with the Church,
and fully as many were converted. The old
say there has never been such a meeting in
this neighborhood. The membership was
greatly revived, and I have never preached
to more orderly congregations. Up to this
time, eighty-two have joined the Church.
Some of the young converts have come for
ward with liberal help to meet pressing
claims on the Circuit.
Isaac J. Newberry.
GRAHAM 1 uit i IT, SOUTH CAROLINA
CONFERENCE.
Dear Brother Kennedy: We have enjoy
ed during the pest few weeks, the most pre
cious seasons of grace, in ths bounds of the
Graham circuit. In the midst of our afflic
tion in the death of our dear Robbie, God
has sustained and comforted us, and visited
our beloved charge with unusual manifesta
tions of revival influence and saving power.
We have bad a delightful meeting at Graham
which lasted eight days; several conversions,
and valuable additions to the Church, and
the membership greatly revived, and young
men’s prayer-meeting organized. Brothers
McKibben and Campbell rendered us valu
able assistance a part of the time. Our meet
ing at Union was a precious occasion. We
had several conversions, among them e gen
tleman 57 years of age—a perfect triumph.
But few joined; nearly every one in some
Church. Brother Sifley rendered us excel
lent service. We have just closed a great
meeting at Blackville, of nine day’s contin
uance. We had twelve additions to the.
Church, and at least as many conversions;
among them two old men near 60 years of
age. The membership was vitalized and
elevated to a plane of spirituality not enjoyed
for years. God has given us at Blackville a
corps of workers, male and female, whose
beginnings promise the lichest fruits for the
Church and cause of Christ. Brother Camp
bell labored with ns a few days with great
acceptability to us all. The Lord be praised
for his abundant goodness.
A. J. Cauthen.
Graham, S, C., August 21, 1877.
VOLUME XL., NO. 36.
SILVER CREEK CIRCUIT, NORTH
GEORGIA CONFERENCE.
Dear Brother Kennedy: I began a meet
ing at Chuho Church on this circuit, Satur
day before the first Sunday in August, and
it was protracted with marked interest for
ten days. Ten persons were received into
the Church. The majority of those who
joined were heads of families. The Church
wag very graciously revived, and the revival
influence appeared to pervade the com.
munity as well as the Church. Several per*
sons covenanted tp pray for their dear ones,
who were not converted, and they were all,
with few exceptions, converted during the
meeting. The altar was filled with anxious
penitents when the meeting was closed per
maturely, because of the disagreeable weath
er. All seemed anxious for it to continue.
Some professed to have made higher ad*
vancements in the divine life. One good
mother in Israel deserves special mention,
who is truly “the salt of the earth.” Her
influence for good was wonderful. The Lord
blessed her in her good labors most abun
dantly. She appeared to be entirely carried
away in spirit; and like Moses, she appeared
to stand on Pisgah’s summit viewing the
promised land.” In that, condition, she
was a volume of sermons to that congrega
tion —especially to sinners.
Seven infants were presented to the Lord
in holy baptism. For all these blessings, we
now thank God, and take courage.
I acknowledge the valuable assistance of
Revs. G. W. Thomas, of the itinerancy, and
W. B. McElroy, of the local ranks.
Yours in Christ, A. J. Watters, P. C.
Floyd county, Ga., August 22, 1877.
A CARD. __
I feel very gratified to the many kind
friends who have aided me in preparing my
History, and for the very kind reception that
has been given to it.
1 here are a number of minor typographical
errors in the edition just published. They
do not, in any case affect the sense, and can
be easily corrected.
Id the next edition which will be isgned
immediately they will not. appear. The pub
lishers have spared no effort or expense in
making the book correct and attractive, and
are not to blame for these misprints. It has
been impossible to do lull justice to ev*ry
one who has borne his part in our Church
History, but I have aimed to do all I could
consistent with the design I had of making
a book, in the reach of all.
The History is not a “History of Metho
dism, but of Methodism in Georgia and
h lorida. It is not written for scholars or for
critics, but for the people, who want to know
the facts and have them simply narrated.
LaGrange, Ga. Geo. G. Smith, Jr.
MARION CIRCUIT-SOUTH CAROLINA
CONFERENCE.
In a card of August 19th, Rev. J. W.
Mcßoy says ; “ For about four weeks I have
heard little besides sermons, prayers, songs,
and shouts of praise; and we have a heavy
campaign ahead. I mean I and my staff of
local preachers. Our six days’ meeting at
Tabernacle is over. It was a time of power.
The Holy Ghost fell upon the people.
Eleven applied for membership—five bap
tized—many happily converted—the mem
bership rejoiced. We begin another meeting
to-day.”
And in another of August 25‘h, he says :
“ Our Mount Nebo meeting resulted in nine
additions, eight baptisms, and about twenty
conversions. The most pleasing incident
connected with this meeting, was the recep
tion into the Church and recognition of Jo
seph Brown, Esq., an old and respected
citizen, at his own house, he being unable to
go to the Church. Rev. S. S. Gasque, my
self, and a few frienda of the family, who
chanced to be present, were all who were
privileged to mingle our tears Os gratitude
and songs of praise with this worthy family,
whose joy was indeed unspeakable. We feel
encouraged to go forward.”
Madison Florida con
ference.
Dear Bro. Kennedy: We have a good
meeting at Shiloh, on this circuit, the Church
is much revived, and we have had several
conversions, and twenty have been added to
the Church. We are praying and working for
a general revival on the circuit. This is a
great field for ministerial work. We have
here a densely settled county, about seven
hundred members in the Methodist Church;
and yet there are very many people belong
ing to no Church. A few good local preach
ers who want a home in a good country
where they can exercise their gifts and
graces for usefulness, might do well in this
country. Christians who want to work can
find here plenty to do in fields that promise
a rich reward. But we have neither room
nor use for idlers—we are crowded with
them. Our county is improving— town and
country. Old Madison is raising her head,
new life is manifest in every department.
Yourß truly, J. M. Hendry.
MISSIONS, NORTH GEORGIA CONFER
ENCE.—received FROM JUNE 22, TO AUGUST2.I
DOMESTIC. FOREIGN.
Greensboro $ 35 00
Winterville 2 50 16 30
Crawfordville 1 00 4 10
Atlanta Trinity 87 00
Decatur 25 00
Augusta, St James 60 00
Putnam 15 55 19 45
Augusta, Asbury 10 55 14 00
Sparta 20 00
Nacoochee 6 00
Gordon 16 50
Homer 20 50
Gainesville 11 00
Thomaston 8 00
Jonesboro 20 00
Cartersville 15 00
Cave Spring 4 00
Cave Spring 7 00
P. A. Heard, Treas.
Waukeenaii Ct, Florida Conference.—
Rev. It. H. Howren writes, August^ 22: \Y<?"
are having a glorious work at Sardian
circuit, which began with the opening of our
third Quarterly meeting, on the 18th of this
month. Up to this evening—Wednesday—
sixteen have joined the Church, eight or ten
of them happily converted. Our presiding
elder, brother Fulwood, is with us, making
full proof of his ministry. He is surely a
host in a revival. We regret that he must
leave ub in the morning, but the meeting will
go on. Pray for us brethren of the Church,
that this tidal wave of divine grace may roll
on until this entire circuit is baptized with
the Holy Ghost.
Little River Circuit, North Georgia
Conference. —Rev. W. L. Yarbrough writes.
August list,: “We are having a series of
good meetings around this Circuit. Brolher
Pledger is rendering excellent service,
preaching with great power, and his earnest
appeals are attended manifestly with the
presence of the Divine Spirit. The local
brethren are also doing good work. Much
interest is being manifested both by mem
bers whose love had grown cold, and by the
unconverted. Pray for us—that the fire
may continue to burn.”
Flowery Branch Ct, North Georgia
Conference, —Rev. R. H. Rogers writes,
August 27: We have recently closed a five
days’ meeting at Harmony Grove—twelve or
fourteen conversions, and eight accessions to
the Church. About silty members of the
Church professed to have been blessed dur
ing the meeting. We have also had a very
interesting meeting at Flowery Branch—one
conversion and accession.
Watkinsville Ct, North Georgia Con
ference. —Rev. W. W. Oslin, writes August
21: “We are having some excellent meet
ings. Have received about twenty acces
sions, and the Cburcbeß have been greatly
blessed. Pray for us.”