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JOURNAL

GP THE

^m©(i^^Bisr©s

OP THE

Tlitli Anuwal Contention

OP THE IN THE

STATE OF NORTH-CAROLINA i

HELD IN TBE

SUPREME COURT ROOMy CITY OF RALEIGH:

On Saturday, April 28 ; Monday, April 30 ; Tuesday, May 1, and Wednesday, May 2, 182L

TOGETHER WITH

THE DISCOURSE

OP RIGHT REVEREND RICHARD C. MO0RE,D. D.

At the opening of the Convention, and sundry Important Papers^ ordered to be printed by the Convention.

rAYETTEVlLl^E :

Printed at the Observer Office, by Carney & Ward,

JOURNAL, &C.

RALEIGH, APRIL 28, 1821.

THIS being: the day appointed for the meetins: of the Con- vention, Divine Service was attended in the Presbyte- rian ('hiirch, which, to.^etlier with the Methodist Clmrch, iiad been kindly offered (or tlie use of the Convention. Morn- iiig* pt'ayer was celebrated by the Rev'd.JoHN Phillips, and an appropriate discourse delivered by the Rt. Rev'd. Ricn- AKD C. Moore, D. D. Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Churcii in the Dioceses of Virginia and North-Carolina.

After Service, the Members of the Convention proceeded to the Supreme Court Room, and the Convention was duly or-anized :— PRESENT,

JXt. Rev'd. RiCHABD C. Moore, D. D. in tlie chair, Rev'd. JoHX Phillips, Rector of Trinity Church, Tarboro^ Adam Empie, do. of St, James' Wilmington^ John Avery, do. of St. Paul's Edenton,

Rich'd S. Masox, do. of Christ's Newbern,

William Hooper, Professor of Langua.eres in tlie U-

niversityofJN". Carolina;, Thomas Wright, Missionary, Gregory T, Bedell, Rector of St. John's Church,

Fayetteville* The Certificates of the appointment of Lay Delegates be- ing called for, the following gentlemen appeared and took their seats :

From St. James' Churcli, Wilmington, ,/3. J. DeRossef, m. d.

Fred'k, L HiU, m.d. St. Mark's Church, Orange CVy Dun. Cain^roTi, Esq. St. Jude's do do. Robert Davis,

St. John's do Williamsboro' William M. Greeih St. John's do Fayetteville, John Jl. Cameron,

James Townes, Cliarl. T, Haigh, and William Cameron. A Certificate having been read to the Convention, of the Organization of a Congregation in Pitt County, to be known by the title of «* The Wardens and Vestry of Grace l^hapel, Pitt County," said Congregation was, on motion, admit- ted into union with this Convention ; and their Delegate, William Pughy Esq. took his seat in the Convention,

Diincnn Cameron^ Esq. rose and stated to the Convention^ that a ('o)ii^iP2^ati»)n had been regularly organized in War- renton, Warren County, and a Vestry appointed : and, that though through want of time and otiier causes, no Certificate of appointment had been made out, yet that Mr. John Ander- son came as a delegate of this Congregation.

These facts being known to the Convention, Mr. Ander- son was admitted to a sejit.

The Congregation of Christ's Church Rowan County, was also formally admitted into union with this Convention, and their Delegate, Almand Hall admitted to a seat.

The convention Then proceeded to the election of Secreta- ry, when the Rev'd. G. T. Bedell was unanimously re- elected.

On motion, Resolved^ tliat Candidates for order, be admit- ted to honorary scats in this Convention.

It being ascertained that tlie Rev'd. Robert Johnson Miller of Burke County, has come to this Convention in the ( apacity of a Delegate from the German and English Lutheran Synod of N. C. and for the purpose ol* effecting as far as practicable, intercourse, and union between the Epis- copalians, and some of the Lutheran Congregations : Resolv- edf That the Rev'd. Mr. Miller be cordially received, in the above capacity and admitted to a seat in this Convention. The Convention then proceeded to the appointment of a committee to repoi't oji the state of the Church, w hen Rev'd, Adam Empie, R. S. Jlason^ Duncan Cameron^ Esq, - —Br. De Rosset and

Mmand Hall, were appointed. A standing Committee of the following persons, was then appointed for the ensuing year.

Rev'd. Adam Empie, of Wilmington, ' G. T. Bedell, ~)

John A. Cameron, ! ^ ,?- xx -n Sobert strange, }-of Fajettcv.lle.

Charles T. Hai^h, J

The Rev'd. Mr. Empie then presented to the Convention the following Preamble and Resolutions, which were read, and ordered to lie on the table, to wit :

As t])e paramount business of every state convention, is to endeavour, by all practicable means, to promote, to the utmost, the interests of religion within its own Diocess, so it is, obviously, the paramount business of the General Con- vention, to endeavour in the same degree, to promote the

general interests of our American Zion. And whenever the gi'uml ro\mr\] of our Church adopts a measure, which is cal- culated t.. further those interests, the cordial and vigorous co-c.peration of all the Diocesses, for the purpose of carry- in.2: this measure into effect, is a consequent dutv. And while we entertain a respectful deference for the opinions and per- fect confidence in the integrity of those who appear to differ from us, we feel it our duty^' to ohserve that in our view, for any constituent member of tfie g;eneral body to refuse this co-operat!on,is a virtual renunciation of its authority, is act- in.^ upon a principle which leads directlv to the dissolution of the compact, and is a s])ecies of hi-h treason against the supreme authority of the Ciiurch.

Moreover, it is a duty of the first order, bindin.i- upon the conscience of every Christian, to further, as far as i)ractica- ble, ixn(\ by all the mejtns in his power, t!je interests of true reli.-mn, and of the visible Church of God. As these cannot be advanced more effectually than throug^h the medium of a learned, pious, and zealous ministry ; which is the medium o? God's own appointment— and as by tlic i^eneral consent of mankind, and the practice of the Church in all a.i^es, it is ren- dered evident, that, under Divine Grace, Theologicol Sem- inaries are necessary to the production of such a ministry • it becomes a duty of the highest moment for evei'y Christian to contribute as far as he is able, to the support of some well organized Theological Seminary. And in bestowing upon such a seminary his patronage, it is equally a duty for tbe Christian, to divest iiimself of all local feelings, all section- al partialities, all motives merely personal, aiidto megre all

*We feel ourselves in duty caZ^e^ 2//jo7;, thus to express and pro- claim our opinion, because that spirit of indifiference, and of dis- guised or open opposition to the Theological Seminary • which began to evince itself at the last general Convention, has ever since been seaming strength— has produced numerous pamphlets ad- verse to the interests of the general Seminary— is daily making new converts, in every part of the union~is checking the zeal and kssening Uie interest that are felt in behalf of the Theological Scho .] at New Haven, and is drawing over numbers, to the perni- eious policy, of patronizing imperfect Diocesan Seminaries, and of withdrawing their support from our federal institution

If the influence and progress of this spirit be not checked, it requires not the gift of prophecy to foretell, that the general Theo- logical Seminary will languish and die for want of support : and ourChu ch will, with little exception, be left to groan, underthe multiphed evils that are inseparable from a ministry, imperfectly, and diversely educated. ^ •''

minor con side rat ioi.s in iJiosc of the iiaiiir.iouiii iaterestt. ol' the Church, and ilie Redeemer's Kin.i^dom tijroiighout our C(»untry, and t!n-oii,4:^hout tlic world. Thougli \vc owe much to 'nn-own jKirticuhir parish and Dioccss, it sliould not b. foi-.^^otten t!iat we owe niucli to the Church at large.

As likewise the General Convention has organized, and cstahlislied a General Theolo,2;ical Seminary, subject to their siijn^Mne direction and control — as one sucli seminary, so far as the ministry are roncerned, is for the present, adequate to tho <^ritire demand of our whole American Church — as tlic system which advocates one such seminary, is far prciera- ble to that whicfi would estahlisii numerous local and Dio- cesan seminjj'ies, because this j)lan is indefilnitcly less ex- pensive, is better calculated to cnsui'e a general uniformity of faith and practice, and is more likely to secure all those advantages that would arise, from having every Professorial Ciriir filled with the ablest and the best Tl.eologians — and as upon this plan too, vast sums v/ould be saved to our reli- gious community at large, which are wanted for thcfurther- anre of various otiier charitable purposes, it appears striking- ly obvious, that every Episcopalian in the United States, sliouhi feel himself imperatively called upon and in duty bound to discounteijance Diocesan SeMninaries, rjid to throw the whole weigiit of his character, his influence and his sur- plus proj)erty into the scale of our General Theological ir«- stitution. For surelely e\ery one should feel it his duty to pi'efer o;z5 seminary perfectly provided for in all respects, to tiie plan of patronizing numerous impertect, half endowed, lingering, and inefficient institutions.

In fine, as the General Tlieological Seminary, first loca- ted in New-York, has since, by the anthority that first estab- lished it, been removed to New-Haven, — as tiiis measure was not only a matter of expediency, but of boanden duty, be- cause the exj)ense of such an establishment, and of tiiosc, belonging to it will be annually, one third less than it would be j^t New- York, — as in all probability no sufficient reasons can ever exist hereafter for removing it again — as it enjoys a healthy situation, and most, if not «//the other advantages that it could ever desire from its location ; and as the city wImmv it is established has long been resorted to, by young mr^n from every section of our country far and neai-, its late I'cmoval is manifestly no cause for withdrawing from it our su|)i)ort, but is rather an additional reason tor extending to it our most liberal and undivided patronage. Wherefore, Res dved unanimously, that this Convention does most cor- dially ajiprijve of the General Theological Seminar}', and its establishment at New-Haven,

Rcsoircd iinanv.Roushji TJiat we do most earnestly recom- mend it to the wiirm and munificent patronage of e\ery E- piscopalian.

Resolved unanimously, That we entertain a hi a;]) sense of the services rendered to this seminary by the prompt, and zealous, and successful exertions of the Rev'd. G, T, Bedell^ and that he be requested as soon as he can make it convenient to prosecute his labors until he has completed the circuit of the state.

Agreeably to order, the foregoing preamble and resolutions were laid on the table.

On motion, convention adjourned to meet on Monday April 30, at 9 o'clock, A. M.

For the information of Jii|»«scopalians generally, it has been thought projier to take notice of tlie transactions which occured during the interval between the sessions of the Con- vention,

On Saturday Evening, Divine service was again celebj-a- ted in the Presbyterian Church, prayer by the Rev'd. Mr. Hooper, and a discourse by the Rev'd. Mr. Avery,

On Sunday morning. Divine service was celebrated in the Metliodist Church, Prayers by the Rev'd. Mr. Wright, and a Discourse by the Rev'd. G. T. Bedell — after service Mr. Robert Bnvis, and Mr. Wm, Green were admitted to the or- der of Deacons, after which the Communion was adminis- tered to above an hundred persons 5 the Presbyterian and Methodist Clergymen being among the number.

On Sunday afternoon. Divine service was again celebrated in the Methodist Church, Prayer by the Rev'd. Mr. Mason^ and a Discourse for the benefit of the Protestant Episcopal Missionary Society of N. C. delivered by the Rev'd. Mr. Empie, and a collection taken up amounting to %66 81.

MONDAY, APRIL.30, 1821. The Convention assembled in the Supreme Couit room, at 9 o'clock, A. M, pursuant to adjournment — the Bishop in the chair.

PRESENT.

Rev'd. John Phillips, Rev'd. Thomas Wnght,

Mam Eminef G. T, Bedell,

John Jlvery, Robert Davis,

V jR. -S^. Masoiu Wm, Green, Wm, Hooper, The two latter gentlemen having been yesterday ordained Deacons*

PRESENT OF THE XAITT,

Ih\ Be Rosset, Dr. HilL

Duncan Cameroiu John Ji. Cameron, James Townes,

Charles T. Haighf Wm, Cameron, Wm, Pns^h, John Anderson, Mmand HalL

Br, Richard Sneed, a (lele,2;ate from St. John's Church Williamsborough, appeared at this time and took his seat.

Aj^reeably to the resolution of yesterday, the Rev'd. Ro- bert 1. Miller of the Lutheran Church >vas present and in his place.

The Parochial Reports were then ordered to be read, and are as follows :

TRINITY CHURCH, TARBOROUGH,

Rev^d, John Phillips , Rector. Communicants, - - - - 7

Marriages, ----- 1

Burials, ----- 3

Warrenton, — Communicants, - - 13

Baptisms, - - ^ 20

Bear Creek Chapel, — Communicants, - - 4 TVashivgto7i, — Communicants, - - - 6 Baptisms, - - - 4

Funerals, - - - 1

Stated times and places of preaching since the last Con- vention : — At Tarborough on the first and thir?I Sunday of every month. — Bear Creek Chapel and Washington, on the second Sunday. — At Warrenton on the fourth Sunday. — Visited Raleigh thrice — sirk four months.

ST. JAMES' CHUkTh, WILMINGTON.

Reverend Mam Empie, Rector, Babtisms, - - - - 6

Marriages, - - - - g

Burials, - - - - 14

. Communicants, - - - . 156 of

•whom 17 are Africans. Eight new communicants have been added, in the course of the year, but this addition has been counterbalanced by deaths and removals.

Catechumens, about 100 'i Exclusive of Africans amount- Adults, about 200 j ing to about 100 Our Societies, Schools and Bible Class, as mentioned in the last annual report still exist, hut owing to the embar- rassment of the times and other causes, none of them are in a very flourishing condition, except the Sunday School. And

though upon a comparison with other Churches we have no reason to complain, yet we cannot say that during the past year, our relij^ious state and character have met vvith any material visible ivnprovement. One event however deserves to be recorded. The spirit of active and Christian Benevo- lence has given birth to a female Association, who spend one half day in each week i.» manufi\ctnring various articles, the nett proceeds of which are devoted to missionary and other cliaritable uses ; and who, for fear of otherwise misemploy- ing tlie time when they meet together, arc occupied in read- ing and in listening to such works as are best calculated to promote charit} and piety.

ST. PAUL'S CHURCH, EDENTON,

Rev'd, John Avertj, Rector. Baptisms, ----- 7

Marriages, ^

Burials, ----- 3

Communicants, - - - - 22

CHRIST'S CHURCH NEWBERN,

Rev'd, Richard S. Mason, Rector. Baptisms — In Ncwbern, 5

At Beaufort, 6

At Grace Chapel, 3--Total, 14

Marriages, ^

Burials, - - - - 10

Communicants^ ^ - _ - 64

Since last report, 10 Communicants have been added, one has died and one removed.

Through the Divine blessing, the increase of the Congre- gation has been sufficient to call for the erection of a New- Church. A contract has been entered into, and with th© permission of Providence the building will soon be com- menced.

The Rector of this Parish has occasionally visited and preached in places at some distance from Newbern.

ST. MARY'S CHURCH, ORANGE COUNTY, Rev. millam Hooper, Deacon.-'Qfficiating Baptisms — Adult - - i

Infants - 5— Total 6

Marriages - - ^

Funerals - - ^

2*

10

ST. JOHN'S CHURCH, FAYETTEVILLE,

Bevereml Gregory T, Bedell, riectGr. Baptisms - - - _ 19

Mari'ia.i^e.s - . . 4

Fmierais - - . . 7

Communicants - - - 60

In this parish, there is a very ^^rowinj^ attention to the con- cerns of reli,i^ion, and an increased attachment to the institu* tions of the church.

The Sunday Sriiool, Bible Class and Singing Society, arc in a flourishing condition.

Among the deat!is in this parish, is particularly to be re- corded, that of John fVinslow, Esq. a man, to wliose exer- tions, principally, tlie Church under God, owes its existence, and much of its present prosperity. He was moie than ordi- narily interested in its welfare, and seemed to think no sa- crifices, either of time or of money, too great to be made in the cause of religion, and of this church in parti< ular. His death is a public loss, and not only to be deeply deplored b^ this parish, but by the church at large.

TVilmingtoUf — Missionary and Prayer # ^ , ;- oe d,.^i. G^^;«f,. ('h'^o «5

MISSIONARY COLLECTIONS,

•ayer ") Book Society, J Collected in fuhurch, 43

Female Association, 30

Subscription, 2

■ 120 85

JV<2U'6ern, - - - - - - - 25

Edenton, -.--,.-88

SL Jude''s Chnrchf 6

Wadesborough, - - - - - - 10

fVarrenton, - - - -~ - - 20

»3i /i^a/ei^/i, (during Convcnton,) - - - 66 81

The Rev'd. Robert J. Miller of the Lutheran Chnrch, presented a Communication to the Convention, which was referred to the Committee on the state of the Church.

The following Communication .from the Secretary of the last General Convention, was then read :

At a meeting of tlie General Convention of the Protest- ant Episcopal Church ; held in St. Jame's Church Phila- delphia, in the Month of May, 1820.

Richard Hariison, Esq. offered the following resolution, and proposed alteration of the Constitnti«)n, which resolution Tras adopted, and sent to the house of Bisuops.

il

Resolved, Tit at it be made known to the several state Con- ^rent'OJis of tiiis <:lmr "h, tluii it is proposed to consider at the next Genera! Convention, and if deemed expedient, finally to ratify the folIoNving alteration of the first article of the Con- stitution :

By striUin.i^ out so much of the first article as relates to the time of holdin;v the General Convention, and by inserting after the words "United States of America," in the said ar- ticle, the words, *'at such time in every third year, and" — and farther, by itisertina; after tlifc word "Convention," the follo\vin,s; clause : •* and in case there shall be an Epidemit dis- ease, or anv other .^ood cause to render it necessary to alter the place fixed on for any such meetin,^ of the Convention, the presidin.^ Eisliop shall have it in his power to appoint another convenient jilace (as near as may be to the place so fixed on) for holdiuji; such Convention." Extract from the Journal

JOHN C. RUDD, Assistant Sec%

House ofC(^ L. B.

This alteration was ai2;rced to by the Convention. At the same time, the Rev. Mr. Hooper, Rev. Mr. Avery and John A. Cameron, Esq. were appointed a committee* to draft a memorial from this Convention, to be laid before the Gene- ral Convention at their next meetinj^, on the subject of a per- manent alteration in the time of said meetins^s.

The Convention then proceeded to the election of Delepjates to the next General Convention. The follow ins: persons were duly elected : — Rev, Adam Empie, Rev. John Ave- rifi Rev. Richard S. Mason, Rev. G. T. Bedell, Ihincan Cam» eroiii J A. Cameron, John Stanley, and Josiah Collins, Esqrs,

-The Convention then adjourned to attend Divine Service, wliic'i was held in the Presbyterian Church ; The Discourse by the Rev. Richard S. Mason. A Confirmation was then held by the Bishop, when 36 persons were confirmed. The Con- vention then returned to their room and resumed business.

The Standing Committee of the last year on the subject re- ferred to them, by the last Convention, viz. to take into con- sideration the propriety of organizing a Society for the pro- motion of Christian knowledge, by printing and publishing such works, as the Society, by its officers may think condu- iveto this effect, having had the subject under consideration, beg leave to report :

That considering the embarrassments of the times, and the rails now making upon the liberality of Episcopalians, they

12

deem it inexpedient to attempt at this time, the establishment of such a society, but believin^^ that such an institution would be a powerfii] auxiliary in disseminating correct sentiments, in counteractin.^ prevailin.s; errors, and in promoting true re- ligion, they recommend that this subject be submitted to tlie consideration of the next standing committee. — Report ac- cepted.

The Committee on the state of the Church were directed to revise the Canons of this Church, if necessary to prepare new ones, and to collect the whole in a body.

The various committees not being ready tr> report, after considerable discussion on the subject of the most proper place to hold the next Convention of the Church in this state, and not being able to come to a decision, a motion of ad- journment till to-morrow morning 9 o'clock was proposed and carried, and the Convention adjourned.

Monday Afternoon, service was again held in the Presby- terian Church, and a Discourse by the Rev'd. Mr. Hooper- In the evening, a Discourse by the Rcv'd. Mr. \Yright, Mis- sionary.

TUESDAY, MAY 1,1821.

The'Convention met at 9 o'clock, pursuant to adjournment. The Bishop being engaged. Rev. Adam Empie was called to the chair. Present, as yesterday, with the exception of Lay Delegates, Dr. Sneed and James Townes.

Besolved, That the thanks of this Convention be presented to the Rt. Rev'd. Richard C. Moore, for his truly excellent Sermon delivered at the opening of this Convention, and that he be requested to furnish a copy of the same for publi- cation with the Journal.

Resolved, That Rev'd. Mr. Mason, Duncan Cameron and Charles T Haigh. be a committee to wait on the Bishop with the foregoing resolution.

Duncan Cameron, Esq. then presented to the Convention, the following substitute for the Preamble and resolutions, offered on Saturday by the Rev'd. Mr. Empie, and at that time laid on the table.

Whereas the General Convention of the Protestant Epis- copal Church in the United States, did, at their last session, resolve that the General Theological Seminary, theretofore estbalished by its authority in the city of New- York, should be removed to, and be established in the city of New-Haven, and did further resolve that the authoi-ities of the ('hurch within their respective Dioceses, should be empowered and

13

requested to use their best endeavours to procure funds for the establisliment and eudowniPnt of said Seminary :

And whereas, this Conveniion, independently of its obli- 2;ations, at all times, to respect the authority of the General Convention, doth most cordially approve the establishment of the said Seminary at New-Haven, and is sincerely desirous of promoting theVelfare of the same by all the means in its power :

Be it therefore unaninmv.slij resolved, That this Convention will use its best endeavors to raise funds ^or the support of the Theolo«:ical Seminary established by the General Can- venti-^n at New-Haven.

Resolved further. That ii: he, and is hereby r<^commended to the fficnds of the Church in this state; to second the views of this Convention.

Resolved further, That the thanks of this Convention be, and are hereby tendered to the Rev'd. G. T. Be'^ell, who is af ent for collecting funds in aid of t^ie Theolo.i^ical Semina- ry at New-Haven, and that lie be requested to continue his ex- ertions to increase said funds.

Resolved Further, That tlie thanks of this Convention be offered to the Rev'd, M-. Mason, for the active and etficient aid ,a;iven by 'aim to the RevM. Mr. Bedell in procuring funds for the said Seminary.

This substitute was on motion accepted and adopted by the Convention :

Resolved, That the Rev'd. Mr. Hooper be a Committee to drav>rup an Address to be presented to the Episcopalians of this state on thesubjectof the General Theological Seminary, and that when prepared, it be printed by the Secretary and distributed.

Resolved, That the Rev'd. Mr. Bedell be requested to se- lect and publish in an Appendix to the Journdl,.sueh informa- tion as it regards the efforts makina; in behalf of the General TheologicarSeminary, as may be deemed important to com- municate to the Episcopalians of this state.

The hour of Divine service having arrived, on motion the Convention adjourned tillto-morrowmorning, 9 o'clock, inor- dertoallov/the various committees time to consider and re- port on the important matters committed to them jand also to leave the afternoon for tiic meeting of the Missionary Society.

After the adjournment of the Convention, Divine Service vv-as celebrated in the Methodist Church ; Discourse by the Rev'd. G. T. Bedell. Afterwards. Rev'd, Robert J. Miller, of the Lutheran Church was admitted to the order of Dea-

14

•cons, in ours : after wliich, thirteen persons were conrinned. In tlieevenina: the Bishop delivered his Valedictory Dis- course, heiiii;; ohli.^ed to set out for Virginia immediately af- ter tfie rising: of the Conventirm. After Sermon, Reverend Rohert J. Miller was admitted to the -Priesthood.

WEDNESDAY MORNING, 9 O'CLOCK.

Convention met pursuant to adjournment. The Bishop in the rhair. Present as yesterday.

The Rev'd. Robert J. Miller, and Mr. Almand Hall, ask- ed nd obtained leave of absence for the remainder of tlie session.

rhe Standinj^ Com'nifctee bei^ leave to report, that during tli{' n tst year, .very little business has come before them. Ofl^-ial inform;iti;)!i has been received from the Right Rev'd, J'lnies Kemp of Maryland, that he has displaced William. Giiisnn from his s;rade in the ministry.

The requisite testimonials havin,^ been laid before them, they have rerommended Robert Davis and Wm. M. Green to be a(lm,ilted to the order of Deacons, and Robert Johnson Miller, f heretofore a minister of the Lutheran Church) to the order of Deacons, and subsequently to that of the Priest- hood.

The Committe to whom was referred the business of draft- ini^ a memorial, on the expediency of altering the time of the Mieetin^^ of the General Convention, having taken tjje matter into consideration, beg leave to present the following memorial, to be forwarded to the next Gejieral Convention, as expressive of the views and wishes of this convention : — MEMORIAL.

Whereas, it is the oj)inion of the Convention of this Dioress, that the time of holding the session of the General ConventioJi ougiit to be altered for the following reasons :

1st. It is the opinion of Physicians, and is proved by ex- perience that the season of the year at which the Genej*al Convention now meets, renders a journey to the North dan- gerous to the health anfl lives of the Delegates from the South- ern States. It is found thaf travelling Northward and re- maining for some weeks in a Northern City, exposes the hu- man system to injurious effects from the Southern climate. The delegates now return home in the heat of summer, and thoso in the lower country at the sickly season of the year.

?.'\. The Southern Clergy having generally a respite al- low ^1 them by their congregations in the fall, for the pur- pose of recruiting their health and strength, by an intermis-

15

31011 oi* tiicir labours, and a retirement from the debi]itatin.J5 effects of the climate. It would therefore iriMterially jmo- mote the health and conveniejice of the Southern Cleri^y, I'f the General Convention should hold its sittings sometime in the fall of the year.

3d. This alteration of time would also secure a more.ejen- cral attendance of the Lay Delr^^atcs, inasmuch as it is c«>m- mon for families from the South, to visit the Northern States at this season.

4th. It is thou.^ht that the above reasons renderinp: the proposed alteration so important to the health and conve- nience of the Southern Dek\^-ates, are not counteracte<l and balanced, by any material inconveniences which the North- ern Delej^ates would thereby sustain.

Therefore, Resolved^ That the Deleajates from this Conven- tion to the next General Convention be instructed to use their exertions to have the first article of the Constitutio?* so amended that the future Sessions of the General Convention, be held at such time in the fall of the year, as upon consul- tation may best suit the e^eneral wislies of the Southern repiesentation. Report and Resolution adopted.

The Committee appointed by the Missionary Society to lay before the Convention an account of the state and tran- actions of said Society,

Report, That theRev'd. Mr. Wright, who was engaged as a Missionary by the Society at the last Convention, la- boi*fed zealously as such during the months of July, August, September and October last, during which time he visited eleven counties, preaching the word, and administering Baptism, wherever and whenever opportunity offered. In the course of his labors he visited and preached at Chapel Hill, Pittsborough, Milton, Halifax, and Wadesborough, once. Caswell, Raleigh, Oxford, Haw river Metting House, Salisbury, Lincolnton, and Lumberton, twice. At Warren- ton and St. Jude's Chapel, 4 times — and at Williamshoiough, 7 times. — He also baptized 3 children, one at Williams- borough, one at St. Jude's Church, and one at the Haw river Meeting House.

The Coiamittee further state, that the Rev'd. Mr. Hooper, who was engaged as a Missionary during the period of his exemption from Collegiate duties, acted as auch from the middle of June, to the middle of July, in which time he preached at Oxford, Louisburg, St. Marys' Chapel and Hillsborough, once. At Fayetteville, Warrenton and Ra- leigh, twice. At Pittsboro' and Williamsboro' three times.

16^

. The Coiiimitteo cannot refj-aiii from noticing the pleasure with which botli these gentlemen speak of their visits to War- renton. T.'ie small congregation collected in tiiat plarc by the Rev. Mr. Phillips, seem distinguislied for their attach* ment to the church, A tew ladles of the Congrcication have formed a school, in \Yiu(.h npwardsof twenty children arein- structod in tiie rudiments of learning, and the principles of our religion, free from experse.

The Committee with pleasure state, that upon a review of the Joiirnals of the Rev. Messrs. Wright.and Hooper, it ap- pears tiiat t!iey were generally welcomed with gladness, and lieard with attention; and tije Committee concur in opinion with them, that with the blessing of God, nothing but addi- tional missionary labor is wanting to revive our Zion in ma- ny places throughout the state wlicrc she has long lain deso- late.

Besides the RcvM. Mr. Wright, who vv ill continue his la- bors as during the last year, and the Rev. Mr. Hoopei' who v/iil officiate as often as practicable in his neighborhood^ the Society have engaged the services of the Rcv^d. Robert Da- vis, who will visit most of those western parts of the slate whicli are destitute of our ordinances, and wherever there may be any Episcopal attachments, or even a probability of cxcitiug any.

The Rev. Mr. Miller has also promised, occasionally to vi- sit such congiTgations as lie in his neighborhood, so far as is consistent witJi Ins other engagements. The Committee have much to hope from the Igbors of the Rev. Mr. Miller, as his zeal in the cause is already well known, and as his acquaint- ance is extensive and his influence very great in the western parts of this state where he will be paincipaJly employed.

The Rev. Wni. M. Green, has also engaged to devote one fourth of his labors to the Missionary cause in those Congre- gations which are convenient to the one with which he is more particularly engaged.

The funds of the Society, including the salaries and out- fits of the Missionaries for the present year, amounts to more than gl200.

On behalf of the Committee of the Missionary Society.

WILLIAM M. GREEN.

KEPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE STATE OF THE

CHURCH.

To present a clear and extended statement of the condition

of the Church in this state, and of the increasing prosperity

which, through the Divine blessing appears to await it, the

Committee have thouj^ht it expedient to take a retrospective view of its condition, since its beint^ first orsjanized in the year 1817, to the present time, exiiibiting its state as at this day, and shewini^ our reasons for bclievin^^ that, througli the j^race of God accompanying it as hitherto, its borders will be more enlarj^ed, and the number of its pious sons be very greatly increased.

It appears from the Minutes of our Conventions that the organization of the Chiirch in this state, took place in New- bern on April 24, 1817, when it was found that the follow- ing clergy had cures in tiiis state, and formed with their con- gregations the constituent parts of the Convention. Rev'd. Bethel Judd of St. John's Church, Fayetteville ; Rev. Jehu Curtis Clay of Christ's Churrh, Newbern; and Rev. Adam Empie of St. James' Church, Wilmington. There were also Lay Representatives from each of these congregations.

At this Convention, no report was made on the state of the several Congregations. A constitution was formed ; a stand- ing committee appointed, and a Missionary Society institut- ed.

The next Convention assembled in Fayetteville on the Sd of April, 1818 — the same Clergy were present, with the ex- ception of Rev. Mr. Clay, whose place was supplied by the Rev. Mr. Mason. During this Convention, the congrega- tion of St. Jude';* Church, Orange county was received into the union, and Robert Davis, the Delegate therefrom took his seat. During this session. Bishop Moore's acquiescence in the request made Iiimat the last Convention, to undertake the charge of this Diocess, was offi{ially received.

The third Convention metin Wilmington, April 22, 1819, Rt. Rev. Richard C. Moore being present. Of the Clergy ■were also present. Rev. A. Em])ie, Rev. John Avery, Rev. Gregory T. Bedell, Rev. R. S. Mason, and Rev. John Phil- lips, three of whom had moved into the state since the last [ Convention. Lay Delegates also attended from the five Con- ^ gregations. During this session, the following Congrega- tions were admitted into union with the Convention : St« — Mary's Church, Orange county ; Trinity Church, Tarboro* and St. John's Church, Williamsborough.

The fourth Annual Convention was held in Edenton, A- pril 25th, 1820. The Bishop, four Presbyters and one Dea- con attenned. Lay Delegates from four Congregations.—. Messrs. William Hooper and Tiiomas Wright were admit- ted Deacons and Rev. R. S. Mason to the Priesthood. A numbers of candidates for orders were also received.

3*

18

At the present Convention, the Bishop and seven Clerj^ji^" men attended and twelve Lay Delegates. Four new Con- .fi^regations have been admitted into union. Messrs. Robert JDavis and William Green have been ordained Deacons, and Rev. Robert J. Miller of the Lutheran Church, both Deacoft and Priest,

The number of Communicants this year is 322; Baptisms 76 ; Marria.^es 20 ; Funerals 40,

From the several statements collected it appears, that there has been an increase of sevejj Congregatiotis — that the Cler- gy of the Diocess now amount to ten ; and that the number of Communicants has increased from seventy -one to three hun- dred and thirty -txco.^ Six persons have been in this state or- dained Deacorjs, and two Priests.

But not only has the Cliurch obtained an outward degree of prosperity altogether unlooked for, but also, wc have rea- son to think, the principles and practices of true andgeiiuine piety, have acquired and are still acquiring additional influ- ence in our communion ; a desire for being christians indeed and in truth ; a hungering and thirsting after righteousness is more and more prevailing, and may God of his mercy fin- ish the work he has commenced.

A very interesting communication has this session been haid before the Committee, on the subject of a union between that truly respectable denomination, the Lutherans and our Church. To carry this measure into effect, the Committee propose the following resolution.

Resolved, That a committee, consisting of thi^e persons, two Clerical and one Lay member, be appointed to meet the Synod of the Lutheran Church, to consider of, and agree up- on such terms of union, as may tend to the mutual advantage and welfare of both churches, not inconsistent w ith the Con- stitution and Canons of this Church, or the Protestant Epis- copal Church in the Unites! States.

In considering the circumstances above alluded to, have we not the greatest cause togloiify God ? Who does not sec the hand of God in these things ? Had we not been left a ve- ry small remnant — we should have been as Sodom, and ex- tinct as Gomorrha.

But our borders are greatly enlarged, and our gratitude should be proportionably iuci eased. Our spiritual mother.

* This is the number reported. We have some Churches from whom we had no report, coKsequently 332 falls short of the actual number.

19

who so long lay in sadNcloth and aslies, wasliing with her tears, the foot of the di lap! elated altars of our God, raises her head with a smile of hope ; tiie still small voice of peace is heard amidst the storm which broke around. The thunders have ceased : the sun of her prosperity breaks forth ; Oh, may that sun no more j»;o<!own, neither may her moon with- draw itself ; but may the Lord be her everlasting liglit and her God her glory.

The Committee propose the following Canon for adop- tion :

Any Association often or more adults, consenting to adopt and be governed by the Constitution and Canons of this Churcij, assuming some name by whicii their Church or Pa- E'ish may be designated : ajjpointing a Vestry of four or more persons to manage tlie temporal concerns of their body, and also a delegation of any number of persons not exceed- ing four, mav be received into union with this Church, and their delegates shall be entitled to seats in this Convention, on pi'oducingav>Titten certificate, signed by the Vestry, stat- ing tliat th*^, above conditions had been complied w^ith.

All of which is respectful] v reported, in behalf of the (!Jom- mittee. ' R. S. MASON.

The Convention then proceeded to take into consideration the Resolution j)roposed by the Committee, when it was a- dopted, and The Rev. ddam Empie, Rev. G. T. BedelU and Duncan Cameron, Esq. were appointed a Committee to at- tend the Lutlieran Synod, and to carry the resolution into effect.

The Convention then took up the consideration of the Ca- non offered by the Committee, and it was adopted.

The question for accepting the whole report, resolution and Canon was then carried

Resolved, That it is expedient and beneficial to the inter- ests of the Protestant Episcopal Cbiirch in this state, that an adequate and permanent fund be created for the support of the Episcopate in this Diocess.

Resolved, That Rev. Mr. Avery, Joseph B, Skinner, and James Iredell, of Edenton ; Rev. Mr. Mason, John Stanley ^ and Moses Jarvis, of Newbern ; Rev. Mv.Empie, Dr. Fred. I. Hill and Dr, J. J, De Rossef, of Wilmington ; Rev. Mr. Be- dell, Robert Strange and John A, Cameron, of Fayetteviile ; Rev. Mr. Hooper and Duncan Cameron, of Orange county, and John Haywood of Raleigh ; Rev. Mr. Phillips, John Ander- son, of Warren ton and David C/ar/ee, of Halifax ; Rev. Mr. Green, Col, Roberts and Judge Henderson, of Granville ; Rev.

. .2P

Mr. Miller, Dr. Fenand and ^. Hendersoiu of Salisbury 5 Rev Mf. yVnght^ ami Rev. Mi-. Davis, be a Comnnttee vest- ed with full powers and authority to solicit and receive do- nations Htfd subscriptions for tliis purpose, and that tbey re- port to the next Convention, their proceedings under these resolutions.

HesUved, That the Clergy who reside in the lower parts oftlie state, be requested, with the assent of their several ves- tries and congrej2;ations, to endeavor to spend a short time in each year*, in visiting such Congregations in the interioi* of the state as they may think particularly in need of Ministe- rial laliours.

Ecsolved iinaniniously. That this Convention does most sin- cerely regret the loss wiiich the Church in tiiis state, and pariiciilarly St. John's Church, Fayetteville, has sustained in the death of John Wiiislow, Esq, and tliatthe Rt. Rev'd. B: hop Moore, be requested to draw up and send to the Wi- dow of the deceased, a letter of friendship and condolence.

Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention, be tendered to the Pastors, Trustees, and Congregations of the Presby- terian and Methodist Churclies in this city, for their kind of- fer of their respective Churches, for the use of this Conven- tion : and also, to the inhabitants of this place generally, for their Jiospitable reception, and entertainment of this Conven- tion, and that the Secretary of this Convention, be directed to transmit a copy of this Resolution as above di'c^ared.

Besolved, That tlie thanks of this Convention, be given to the Rt. Rev. Richard C. Moore, for favoring this Convention with his useful labours and animating presence, and for his kindness and fidelity in presiding over us during the session.

Beso'vedf Thatthe Constitution and Canons of the Church in this state, the Minutes oftlie first and second Conventions, and the Constitution of the Missionary Society, be reprinted with the Journals of this Convention.

Resolved, That the Secretary cause 500 copies of the Jour- nal to be printed ; thatunder the cover of the Journal he like- wise have printed 400 copies of the Constitution and Canons of the Protestant Episcopal Churchin the United States, and that the expense of the same, be defj-ayed by the Churches in union with this Ctmvention.

Resolved, That the next Annual Convention be held in the City of Raleigh.

The business of the Convention being declared completed, the following. Addx'ess was delivered by the Bishop.

Si

Brethren,

T!ie prospect of success which gradually un- folds itself to our view, in the advancement of the interests of the Church, is truly eucoura.^ing. NYe have hitherto met with no difficulties to retard our piogress : no untoward c- veiit to paralize our minds : no afflictln^^ circumstance to ex- cite a desponding fear. Our path ha<? been rendered clear by the pointings of Providence, and the most animating light has been reQecied upon it by that God, in whose service we are engaged.

\Yhen we consider the depressed circumstances under which the Episcopal Cliurch in North-Carolina laboured, at the period in w hich the attempt to revive its interests first commenced, we must be aware of those effects, of which the least check to our exertions would have been productive. — Altliough the union into which the friends of our communion entei-eci, was ardent and sincere, still as the object they had in view^ was ot great importance, and the miniber of those who sustained the ark was very small, difficulties which would have been disregarded by a larger body, would not only have shaken the hopes of the chosen few, but prostrat- ed their best efforts iu the dust; and produced a relinquish- ment of the concern, in which they had so nobly engaged.— The Almightv in tender mercy, has subjected us to the ef- fects of no such discouragements. In every step we have ta- ken, we have been sustained by his benevolent arm : a pillar of light has show n us the w ay in which to proceed : obstruc- tions have been removed : the mountains of difficulty have been made easy for the passage of his church and people ; friends have been raised up for our support : the different societies of Christians have received us with open arms, and have wished us success in the name of the Lord.

These considerations have made an impression upon my mind which no circumstances can ever efface ; and 1 rejoice that the Almighty God has made choice of me to assist you in the work and to aid you in the resuscitation of this por- tion of his vineyard.

To ensure success to your further efforts, I would urge vou to persevere in the same course of conduct, yo»i have hi- therto pursued. As long as the Clergy continue to pi'each Jesus Christ and him crucified, Jehovah will continue to bless their labois. As long as the laity follow Christ and obey his precepts. Jehovah will own them as his servants. — Marked with the features of the cross— making mention of the ria:hteousuess of Christ, and of his only, we shall be u-

22

Tiiversaliy acknowledged as the friends of that Being who died on Calvar}', and is risen from the dead.

The proposition which has been made to this Convention, by a portion of the Lutheran Church in this state, is calcu- lated to excite our warmest gratitude to God : it proclaims in language wliich cannot be misunderstood, the confidence thiey place in our integrity, and the preference tliey give to our religious institutions. The dour which has been opened for the reception of the messenger into our bosom, which con- veyed to us their proposals, forms an event of the most im- posingcharacter. In a point, from which we apprehended some difficulty, there has no difficulty arisen ; and we have sent him back to the people of his charge, clothed with that min- isterial authority lequired by our communion, our fellow- laborer in the Gospel — our friend — our brother.

If the Lutheran ministers and congregations, by whom he has been deputed to attend upon our proceedings, breathe the same sentiments which warm my heart ; if they possess the same desire to effect as perfect and entire an union, as hath been exemplified in their representative, it cannot be long before that union will be completed. We shall then form one fold under our shepherd —meet around the same altar — constitute one household, Jesus Christ himself the Bishop of GUI souls.

On my way to the Convention, I preached in Warrenton to a large congregation, and confirmed ten persons. Since the present session of the Convention in Raleigh commenced, I have ordained three Deacons, and admitted one of the num- ber to the Priesthood, I have confirmed forty-nine persons — baptized twenty-five children, and administered the Lord's Supper to many of the followers of the saviour, belonging to the various congregations in this place. Brethren of the Clergy and laity — accept the assurances of my great res- pect and regard — I wish you a happy interview with your families, and may the Lord be with you.

After prayer by the Bishop and the benediction, the Con- vention adjourned.

RICHARD C. MOORE, D. D. Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Diocesses of Virginia and North-Carolina'

Attest,

GREGORY T. BEDELL,

Secretary,

NOTICE

Is hereby given^ that the next Annual Convention will be holden in the city of Raleigh^ on Thursday the \Sth day of Aprils A. D. 1822, bmig the second Thurs- day after Easter.

By order J

G. T. BEDELL, Sec.

I-- ■ ^-

Aij^to]ji!\ate to the Opening ot tUer CONVENTION

OP THE

IN NORTH-CAROLINA :

DELIVERED IN THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, RALEIGH S

ON SATURDAY, APRIL 28, IS21,

BY

THE RT. REV. RICH. CHANNING MOORE, D. D.

BISHOP OP THE DIOCESSES OP VIRGINIA AND NORTH-CAROUNA*

PUBLISHED BY REQUEST OF THE CONVENTION,

SEilJVrON.

3X1) EPISTLE OF PAUi TO TIMOTHY, 4TH CHAPER, IST ANG 2XD VERSES.

'•• I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesiis Christy loho shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing ^ and his kingdom ^ preach the word, he instant in season, out of season, reprove^ rebuke^ exhort with all long sujfering, and doctrines^

Tiie miudof tlie iipostlc, at the period in wliich be deli- Ycred this solemn charge to Timothy, v;as impressed with consideration.] of an eternpJ nature. A piMsorter at Ronie^ and in cxpertation of death, for his attachment to the cross of Christ, ali sisbhinary tilings had ,^iven place, to the aw- ful realities of a future state. As the moment was at hand, ill which he was to be called from his eartiily labours, to claim his mansion in the skies ; he was anxious to leave (hat mantle witij iiis beloved pupil, witii whirh iie had been cloth- ed, when favoured with liis bcatiHc vision ; and to exhort him with liis dying' accejits, to be faithful unto death.

Paul had, no doubt, ¥/eig:hcd in the balance of reason, the principles he had inculciited. He had ascertained those ef- fects, and realized those cofnforts they were calculated to pro- duce ; and found, from experience, that they were sucJi as would support him in deati), and bear him ti'iuniphant to a better v/orld. iVIthough i)is fidelity to the Lord Jesus, had subjected him to the reproaches and pei'secutions of sinful 5i7an, y(it such was liis reliance upon iieaven, that he exhort- ed Timothy toconti:iue steadfast and immovable in the dis- charge of his pastoral olHce, as he valued the salvation of his soul, and the favor of the eternal God,

To shrink from his duties, to be driven from his post, by the frowns of the world, would sink Inm in ruin, while a per- severance in religious avocations, though that {lerseverance might subject him to present difficulty, would land him on that shore, " where the wicked cease from troubling, and where th.c heavy laden arc at rest." He pourtrayed to the view of Timothy, the awful responsibility of the ministerial Cilice ; he represented to him the nature of that account, he would be obliged to render to that being who is appointed judge of quick and dead: Jesus Christ the king of saints ; the great shepherd of the sheep. He led his disci})les to the threshhold of tiic eternal world : Yes, he shewed them th^>

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dead arisinj^ : the Judeje entlironed : the books opened : ihe tiniverse in a flame. He exhibited to liim, the Saviour com- in^e; in the gloi y of the fatlier, with his holy an,8:els. He call- ed his attention to that solemn hour, in which the heavens will be rolled up like a scroll, and the elements melt with fer- Tent heat : in which the monumental stone which slundd he placed over his own sepulchre, would be shivered itito atoms by the voice of the Archangel, and tli« trump of God, and an account be required of him, as a steward of the mysteries of religion. Yes, beloved ! the holy Apostle burning with se- raphic ardor, summoned the attention of Timothy to the con- sideration of that hour, in which, surrounded by those who had been committed to his charge, he would be obliged to witness their eternal destiny, and to see them, either admit- ted itito glory, or banished from the presence of God, and of his Christ.

Armed with such considerhtions, Paul strove to excite the attention of Timothy, and to stimulate him to that faithful cischai-ge of his duty, '* take heed unto thyself, ar.dunto tiiv doctrine, for in doing this, thou shalt both save thyself, and those who h( ar thee. 1 charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and dead at Iiis ap- pearing, and his kingdom : Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season ; improve rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and doctrine.*'

At a period brethren, like thepresent; a period clothed with peculiar solemnity, and involving in it. consiuerations of leadingimportancetothe Church, over Vvhich the Holy Ghost hath made us overseers, I have jud::2:ed it my duty to address you, in the words of the Aj>ostle to Timothy.

Impressed wnth the awful responsibility of that station, which I fill ; alive to all that train of events, connected witii the duties before us: I advance, relying upon the Almighty for support. Tliough a laboui*er in the vineyard almost thir- ty-four years, still my mind is overwhelmed with the ardu- ous charge in which [ have engaged. Trusting, however, to the protection and assistance of that God, wlio is the shield of his people, and Ih.'ir exceeding great reward, and relyir.g TLipon you, for an interest in your prayers, and for tlie bene- fit of your counsel and support, I shall endeavor, God being ywy helper, to fulfil the duties confided to my care. An un- shaken fidelity, is all that I can promise ; success is not to he ( ommand< d )y feeble man ; but should it please the Al- mighty to render my labors of service to this portion of the Church, the weakness of the instrument will be a convincing proof, that the inciease must be of God ; »' for \vc have thie

treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of ns."

That portion of the Lord*s vineyard entrusted to our care, roqiiireg tlie cultivating- hand of the spiritual Imshandman. — The harvest is great ai.d tlie laborers are lew. Supported, however, by the promise of tljc Lord.Jesus, and believing" that he will be witli his Churcji to the end of the world, I indulge the pleasing hope, tiiat ihc distresses of our Zion have reach- ed that point, bevond whicii they will not be permitted to ex- tend tJjei" influence : that Jeimvaii has looked in compassion upon our afHlcted state, and that the set time for the Lord to have mercy u[)(}n Jcrusa'em is come.

The sources from which 1 derive such heart cheering con- solations arc numerous. I observe in some of the Laity, con- spictious for their ciiaracter and stntion in life, a disposition to assist the ministers of religion, and to protect them in the discharge of their religious duties. I observe in them an at- taciiment to evaiigelical piety and doctrine. I hear them la- menting in strains of unaffected sorrow, the depressed state of our communion ; expiessinp; a determination tisrough God's grace, to raise the Church ci' their Fathers from the ruins in which, from a variety of uncontrolable events, it has been plunged. I see a number of young men, influenced by divine grace, putting on the gospel armor — ri^liying around the standard of the cross, the advocates of experimental chris-^ti- anity — preaciiing the truth as it is in Jesus, and determined to know notliing but Jesus Ciirist and iiivn crucified. I see the old Parishes, v*I>ich but three or four years since, were all vacant, now filled with faithful Pastors, and those courts which were marked witii the silence of death, now resoun<l- ing with the praises of the everlasting God.

With such collective considerations, my heart revives and my bosom is inspired v»ith fresli vigor. *• Oh, let us pray then for the 'peace of Jerusalem, for they shall prosper that love thee. May peace be within thy v, alls and pienteousness \vithin thy palaces : f )r my brethren and companions' sake, 1 will wish thee prosperity ; yea, becauseof the house of the Lord our God, 1 will seek to do thee good,"

In preaching the word so as to render it effectual to the salvation of tije soul, it is necessary, that the fundamental principles of religion should be so explained and exhibited to the view, that men may be enabled to form a correct opinion of themselves : an opinion arising from the reality of gospel >truth, and noV from the imaginary conceits of the human mind

The dignity of human nature^ the powers of human rea-

30

son, and the ail sufficiency of the human vvill, form a piir.ci- pie prej^nant with the js^reatest evils ; a principle in diitct opposition to the word of God ; a principle vvhich renders man independent of his maker, and represents him as stand- in,^ in no need of the assistance of divine ,^race. To check this alarminj^ evil, and to discover to man his dependent state ; to shew him the rnin in which his reason hatli been plunged by the fall : to point out to him the sinful bias of Iiis mind: to lead him to the cross, and to shew him, that in Christ Je- sus, and in Christ Jesus alone, salvation can be found, the doctrines of the scripture, and the exposition of the Chin-ch, as connected with those points, are to be faithfully proclaim- ed. The fall of man, then, Vvith those mt^Iancholy conse- quences attendant upon lils de|)arture from primeval inno- cence, should constitute the platform of our relii^ious in- struction. By a frequent and full discussion of this leading priiiciple, the moral diseases of the human mind will be un- folded : man will be convinced of his depraved and polluted nature, and the Savi ur will be exalted in his vfew, as «*thc chief amon?^ ten thousand and alto,^ether lovely."

That human nature carries in itself the traces of a depar- ture from primeval puritj, is an evident and incontrovertible fact. Man, wx arc i?iformed in scj'ipture, was made in the ima2:e of God. That he has lost his title to that high and di^^nified cliaracter, may be proven from the sacred writings, and our own experience. It V' as declared by Jehovah to our first parents, tirat a disobedience to Ins coinmand, should be punished with death : a death involving in it, a loss of mo- ral rectitude. That the penaliy denounced ai^ainst sin v, as carried into effect, is evident from that tempei* which soon manifested itself in Cain, who raised the hand of violence a- ,s;ainst his brother, and put him to death. It is proven also, by tliat train of evils which mark the chai'acter of the natu- ral man at the present day. « Men are lovers of pleasure, more than lovers of God," — there is none that doeth t^ood, no not one." Tlic Scripture, tliereforc, faithful to its purpose, represents man, as wo find him to be, a depraved creature : " with every imagination of the tliouj^ht of his heai't, only evil." Impressed from sad experience with the truth of the >assertion, the Psalmist, in an aj^ony of sorrow, exclaims — <« Behold I v/as shapcn in iniquity, and in sin hath my mo- ther conceived me."* The Apostle Paul, breathing the same sentiment, declares, <*In Adam all died." " By one man's disobedience, many were made sinners." He also asserts, that "the carnal mind is enmity apjainst God." " The na- tural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God, they

31

are foolishness unto liim, ncitlier can lio know them, for they are sj)iritual!y discerned." To these im})ortant truths, the Church unequivocally subscrihes her assent, by asserting in her ninth article, " Original sin stnndeth not'in the follow- ing or imitation of Adam, as the Poja.i^iafjs do vainly talk ; but it is the fault and corruption of evciy man, who natural- ly is engendered of the oflsprijig of Adam, whereby man is very fai- gone from original righteousness, and is, oi' his own nature, inclined to evil, so that the flesh lusteth always, con- trary to the spirit."

Our Divine Redeemer, alive to these considerations declar- ed to Nicodemus, *• Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God," or as he afterwards expressed it, ^« except a man be born of water and of the spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God-" By our first birth we are corrupt, we must therefore undergo a second birtl) — oui' souls must be fashioned and enlivened by the holy spirit : we must be made the partakers of a new viature : we must bear the image of the heavenly. The Jewish teacher, surprized at the declaration of the Saviour, asked in astonishment, how can these things be ? To expose the evil fully to his view ; to trace the necessity of the contemplated purification and change to its source, his attention was directed by him v.ho could not err to the melancholy cause— <* that which is born of the flesh is flesh." It has nothing in it naturally, which is gracious and divine, because it is derived from tha't, which is destitute of every good thing ,• the copy cannot he. better than the original ; the stream cannot rise higher than the fountain ; ^nnarvel not that I said unto thee, ye"^must be bom again."

The Church, adhering to the letter of Scripture, discard- ing the maxims of human philosophy and vain deceit, aiid di- recting theattention of her members to Jehovah, as the foun- tain of ail good; the source from which we derive all spirit- ual assistance, in her tenth article, thus expresses her views of the insufliciency of wan, ^* The condition of man ?A'tei'the fall of Adam is such, that he cannot turn and pi epare birr self by his own natural strength and good works to faith and call- ing upon God : w herefore we have ]io poM cr to do good pleas- ing and acceptable to God, without the grace'of God by Christ {)reventing us, that we may have a good will, and working witli us when we have that good will."

Human nature b.-ingthus fallen and depraved, that with- out Chiist and the benefits arising from that atonement, we '•an do nothing spiritually good, the Scrij>tures reveal to our "'lew, the most effectual rcliei; in the person andofiices of the

Hoiy Spirit. It is with his (li vine iiilluences that we are bles- sed in the ordinance of Baptism, for the washing of regener- ation is to the worthy rcce])ient. attended witli tlie renewing of the Holy Ghost. It is also through his influences that tlie adult trnnsgressor beromes convinced of sin, and that he is directed to t!ie cross of Christ for the salvation of his soul. Yes, it is to the Lord Jesus that the spirit leads the drooping penitent for pardon and forgiveniiess. Sensible of his lost and perishing condition, he invokes tiiefavor and help of his Redeemer, ** Jesus, thou son of Da\id havemeicy upon me.*' <* Purge me \\ith hyssop and I shall be clean ; wash me and I sliall be whiter than snow." ** Make me to hear of joy urn] gladness, that the bones which thou hast broker may re- joice." In a voice of parental affection, the Saviour sjieaks to the convicted ti*ansgressor, ** Seek ye my face," and with a heart melted into contrition, he responds, " thy face Lord will I seek," He thenre^Jizes the meaning of those promi- ses made to the Church of God, promises which, however clear bad to him been involved in obscurity — <I will bring the blind by a way they knew not; I will lead th*^m in paths they have jiot known.' *A new heart also will I give you, and anew spirit will I put within you, azid I will take away the stoney lieart out of your flesh, and I will give a heart of flesli ; and I will put my spirit w ithin you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and to keep my judgments and to do them.'

In the daily service of the Church, in language humble and affecting, we approach the throne of heaven confessing our sins. So far from presuuiingupon thenatui*al powers of the human mind, we acknowledge, that there is no healtii in us; and therefore supplicate that being for assistance, " from wliom all holy desires, all good counsels and all just works do proceed." <» Almighty God, \\ho seest that we have no flower of ourselves, to help ourselves, keep us both outward- ly in our bodies, and inwardly in our souls." " Almighty and merciCul God, of v.hose only gift it cometh, that thy faithful people do untotlice true and laudable service, grant we beseerh tljee, that we may so faithtully serve thee in this life, that we fail not finally to attain thy heavenly promises, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord."

The doctrine of Scripture, and the views of the Church embracing the depi'avity of man, and his dependence upon tlie Holy Spirit for divine illumination, having been consi- dered, it becomes our duty to enquire, into the nature of that principle, by which we are justified in the siglit of God.

There is a disposition in man, which leads him to the ^'orka of the Law for salvation, ond which pi'ompts him to

33

seek an admission into glory, by virtue of his imperfect obe« dience to its injunctions. Notwithstanding the thunderings and lightnings which shake Mount Sinai to its centre, and envelope it in flames, unguaiiled man, fearless of the conse- quences, ascends its awfui summit. He vainly conceives, that a partial conformity to tlic precepts of Jehovah, will a- •^vert the storm of the divine displeasure, and secure him an acceptance with Goa. Aided at length by divine grace, and instructed by the precepts of scripture — precepts which une- quivocally declare, <« By the deeds of the law shall no flesh living be justified," his presumptuous expectations are ar- rested ! He perceives that it would be the height of folly to plead those statutes, for the violation of which he stands con- demned. He perceives that the requisitions of the law are binding upon him, from his earliest, to his latest breath, and instead of meeting w ith a blessing, he beholds the destiny of every dependent upon its favor, expressed in these words — " Cursed is every one, that continueth not in all things that are written, in the book of the law, to do them." Con- science sounds the alarm by proclaiming him a delinquent, and his hopes of happiness from that source, are in a moment prostrated in the dust. Convinced of sin, and labouring under an apprehension of eternal ruin, the gospel of peace calms his distresses and directs his attention to the Saviour, to that ransom provided for all sinners — to that fountain o- pened for all uncleanness — to ** the Lamh of God, who hath taken away the sin of the world." It calls to the trembling penitent, in a voice sweeter than ever vibrated upon the hu- man ear, ^* Look unto Jesus and be thou saved." '^ Christ was made sin for you, that you might be made the righteous- ness of God in him." ** He was wounded for your trans- gressions, and bruised for your iniquities — the chastisement of your peace was laid upon him, that by his stripes you might be healed." Mount Sioti is then revealed to the poor offender, and while he beholds Mount Sinai in a blaze, he sees inscribed upan the cross of Christ, mei-cy and pardon for the chief of sinners — not willing that any should perish — it 5v grace are ye saved through faith, and tliat not of youp- selves, it is the gift of God." ** The blood of Christ cleans- eth from all sin," « turn ye, for why will ye die." Encour- aged by these assurances of mercy, he pleads an interest m the great atonement — he believes in the redemption that is in Christ Jesus and is saved— he takes the benefit of that pro- clamation of forgivenness, which has been sealed with the blood of Christ, and finds comfort, «< being justified by faith, he has peace with God^ through Jesus Christ our Lord.-*

5*

That this representation of the justification and pardon of the pejiitent sinner, is agreeable to the doctrine of tlie Church, is exi)ressed at lari^c in her eleventh article. Yes, upon this point, our venerable and apostolic Church takes the most de- cided ja^round. She places herself at the feet of Calvary, and with the eye of expectation raised to the cross of the atoning Jesus, she declares, " we are accounted righteous before God, only for the merit of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ by faith, and not for our own works or deservings : wlierefore that we are justified by faith only, is a most wholesome doc* trine, and very full of comfort."

These truths, my Clerical Brethren, compose those glad tidings of great joy, proclaimed to the shepherds by an envoy from the courts of blis?3. Those truths, form the foundation of the protestant religion, and wherever they are faithfully pr«^ached, we are authorized to expect that the blessing of Jehovah will attend our labours. Yes beloved, in any situa- tion in which a minister of the Lord Jesus may be placed, provided he proclaims the Redeemer as ** the w ay, and the truth and the life :" as " tike door by which, if any man en- ter in he shall be saved," his ministry must ultimately be blessed, and his labors made effectual to the salvation of his fellow men.

These were the truths, which formed the hope of the pe- yiitent thief, when expiring on the cross. The prospect of e- terna! life, he could have derived from no other source. His life had been defiled by transgression, and his misdeeds had brought him to an ignominious death. In his last moments however, he turned his eye toward his Saviour. He repented of those sins which had stained his character, and solicited an interest in redeeming love. The remedy was instantly applied : the blood of Jesus washed away his transgression, and heaven dawned upon his soul.

The same remedy which proved so effectual in the case of the penitent malefactor, was also applied to the wounded spi- rit of the Psalmist, and was equally successful. In an ago- ny of grief, he confessed to Nathan the enormity of his trans- gression— " I have sinned against the Lord." Nathan im- mediately discovered to him the fountain opened for unclean- ness. and in a voice of mercy, proclaimed his forgivenness, «« ihe Lord hath put away thy sin." Yes, in these truths, there is comfort for the chief of sinners, provided they are penitent. The Ambassadors of Heaven may cry out in the language of the Prophet, " Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the w^aters," and Jehovah will approve the invi- tation, and bless the needy supplicant, with his grace. The

minister of the Gospel may exclaim to aii the iiuman famiij, ♦* Repent ye, and believe tlio Gospel,*' ••Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and ye shall be saved." •'Come unto mc, all ye who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rcst,'^ and the moment, the penitent sinner shall listen to tiie mes- sage of divine love, and ask for mercy — <* though his sins ;ire like scarlet, they sliall be as white as snow, though red like crimson, they shall be as wool." When Jehovah par <]ons, he tiai'dons as a God, w itlioijt upbraiding, ^'Daughter, tiiy sins wliich are many, are forgiven thee, go in peace.*' *«Bi'ing forth the best robe, and put it on hinii for this my son was dead, and is alive again, he was lost, and is found.**

To disseminate these trutlis, you ray Clerical Brethren, have been called, and set apart. *• I tlierefore charge you be- fore God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and dead at his appearing, and his kingdom, preach the word, be isistant in season, out of season." Our Zion,in some parts of this Diocess is clothed in sackcloth j her harp is hung upon the willows — her temples are laid waste — the sanctua- ry of Jehovah and of ourfiithers, is in ruin — and laborers arc required, to repair her waste places — to collect our scattered flocks, and to raise the Church from the dust. To this ho- nor, you have been called. Think not for a moment, that a life of inactivity is compatible with your stations — we expect from you all, the most indefatigable exertion — you are to give yourselves wholly to your ministerial calling, that your profiting may appear to all.

To ensure success to your labors, you are to live, as well as preach the gospel. The servant of the altar is to seperate himself from all the frivolities of human life, and holiness to the Lord, must be inscribed upon his breastplate. Living devoted to the Almighty, a Clergyman will rise in the estimation of all reflecting men. Tiie pious follow^ers of the Lord Jesus, will assist him with their prayers, and his enemies will have nothing w^ith which, justly to accuse him. Yes, living devoted to the Almighty, the minister of religion will always be prepared to administer comfort to the distres- sed members of his flock. His virtuous conduct will give weight to his public as well as private instruction, and force conviction upon the minds of the most obdurate. Pray then, and pray without ceasing, for the influences of the spirit, to warm and animate your whole soul. If cold and lifeless your- selves, it^vill be impossible for you to communicate life to others, or to inspire your people with that piety, to the influ- ence of which your own hearts are strangers.

Tlie Churchy committed to your charge, may be justly

3S

compared to a vessel ticeply ladeji, with iuiiuorUl spi- rits, and yourselves the ])i}ots. To conduct tlieni in safety to the harbor of eternal life, you have nndeitakcn : reflect Lhen, I beseech you, upon the trust cojifuled to your care, lest the tempest of sin, t'lrough a want of vigilance on your part, shouidconsie^n both them and yourselves to ruin,

Youv best labours, I grant you, may not always meet with that return of aiTection, wliich your industrious eft orts entitle you to expect. ]n such cases, your conduct is to resemble that of a tender mother, towards lier children. When they i'cject her best endeavors, and reward her attentions with un • kindness, she folds them in her arms ; slie presses them to her bosom : she w^eeps over their inconsideration. You also are to be Um^ suftering towards those who op])'>se theniseives, you are to supplicate the Almighty to teach them by his grace ; yon are not to be overcome of evil, but to overcome evil with good. Thus discharging the duties of your station, you will be prepared for every event. In th.e hour of sick- ness, you will be blest with tlie approving smiles of heaven. The people ofyour charge will hover aroimd you, the witnes- ses of your fidelity ; and when the last trump shall summon the universe to judgment, surrounded by those who have been committed to your charge, yon will appear at the tribunal ot your heavenly father, and in tiie language ct triumpli will exclami, behold me my God^ and the children with whom thou hast blessed me.

JOURNAL

■I

OP THE OP THE

SIXTH ANNUAL CONVENTION

OP THE

PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH,

IN THE

STATE OF NORTH-CAROLINA-

HELD IN THE

SUPREME COURT ROOM, CITY OF RALEIGH,

Oa Thursday, April 18th ; Friday, April 19th ; Saturday, April 20th, and IMonday, April 22d^ 1822.

TOGETHER WITH

THE CANONS IN^FORCE IN THIS STATE.

KEWBERN^ PRINTED BY PASTEUR & WATSOV,

1822,

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