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ALABAMA EAFTIST HlStCiBCAL SOUEtY

M I N UTES

-OF THE- I

) I

tioii

-HELD WITH-

SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH,

SELMA, ALABAMA, Tuesday. Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. is. re and 17, isss,

OFFICERS:

H. S. D. Mallory, Moderator.

M. H. Traylor, Treasurer.

Louis Johnson, Clerk.

T. P. McCrary, Assistant Clerk.

MINUTES

OF THE SELMA BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.

Selma, Ala., August 15, 1899.

Association met at 10:30 a. m , with 2nd Baptist Church, Tuesday Aug. 15th, 1899.

Devotional exercises led by Bro. J, B. Powell from I2th chapter Romans, ist to 12th verse.

Bro. H. S. D. Mallory called the Association to order and appointed the following Committee on Credentials : Bro Miles Hardy, Bro. M. H.Taylor, Bro. D. B. Edwards.

Under suspension of rules, Bro. A. J. Dickinson moved that the Association consider admitting Immanuel Church at Browns, Ala., of Cahaba Association to this Association On vote being taken the church was admitted and filed letter.

Report on credentials read and adopted. Ash Creek— G. K. Bradly.

Benton — None.

Center Ridge — S, J. Yates, R. W. Watson

Selma, 2nd Church — J. A. Mauldin, R. Summerlin, D. S. Stevenson, E. C 'Edwards, M, C. Huff, T. J- Williams .

Selma ist— H. S. D. Mallory, H. A. Haralson, W P. Welch, T. P. McCrary, T^aw Lamar, Ernest Lamar, G. B Burns, T. M. Johnson, R. P. Bazemore, Paul Carson, I. R, Eskew, Edward Graham, S. C. Stutts, J. Will Moore.

Tovv'n Creek— I. B. Powell, Miles Hardy, T. E. Whatley. Byrd Whatley, R. D. Stewart, E, L. Stewart.

Sister Springs — J. S. Hooper, J. P. Melton, W. D. S. Morgan, J. Day.

Pleasant Hill— J. P, Maxwell, W. C. Day, J R. Crumpton, W. C. Bailey, Howard Crumpton.

Providence — Louis Johnson, W. E. Purifoy.

Mt. Gilead — N. H. Traylor, Asa iVIay, Geo, Cowling.

Immanuel — W. H. Kendrick, W. T. Weisinger.

Shiloh— H. H. Miley, W. M.Stewart, J.M. Lide, Jr., D. B. Edwards, J. D. Johnson.

Macedonia — O. P- Woodruff, C C Bruner.

Orrville— W. T. Cowan, R. B. Hare, B. F. Ellis.

Bethany — A. Edwards, Ulmer Dunklin, J. M. Fortune.

Ruhamu — None.

Hopewell — None.

New Bethel — None.

On Permanent Organization Bro. J. B. Powell moved that Bro. A. J. Dickinson cast the vote for re-election of present officers, which being done the following officers were declared elected,

Bro H. S. D. Mallory, Moderator.

Bro. M. H. Traylor, Treasurer.

Bro. Louis Johnson, Clerk.

Bro, T. P. McCrary, Assistant Clerk.

On report of Executive Committee, the programme as published and distributed throughout house was adopted-

RECEPTION OF VISITORS.

Bro. Savell introduced Bro. A. G. Mosely, of New Orleans,. La.

Bro. J. W. Stev/art ot Orphan's Home.

Bro. Dickinson introduced Bro. J. S. Anderson of the Institute Board and Bro. Howard of the Alabama Baptist, Bro. W. B. Crumpton, Secretary of State Board of Missons.

Bro. E, E. George of Cahaba Association was recog- nized.

Bro. A. J. Dickinson was granted a few minutes for remarks, in which he exhorted the brethren to be social and recommended the reading of the church letter, so that we may know each other better and know what each other were doing.

Bro. A. J, Dickinson moved that a change in the pro- gram be made so that Discussion of Institute Board could be this evening at 3 :30 instead of Woman's Work, and that Womrin's Work take the place of Institute Work at 4 p. m., on the l6th. So ordered.

Adjourned until 2 :3o p. m.

Afternoon Session.

2 :3o p. m Devotional exercises led by Rev. J M. Stewart, after which the Association was called to order by the Moderator.

The reading of the church letters being called they were read by Brethren .1. P. Maxwell and M. H. Traylor.

On special motion the report on Orph.in's Home was taken up. Report was read by Bro. Miles Hardy. Dis-

cussion opened by Bro. J. W. Stewart of the Orphan's Home, who made an earnest appeal for the home, not only from a financial standpoint but for the sysmpathy and prayers. Bro. Reeves Crumpton followed in the discus- sion, after which a collection wiis taken for the Home, amounting to $11.33. Report adopted- (Exhibit A.)

Report on Denominational Literature, paper by Bro- Law Lamar. Discussion opened by Bro. J. I. Kendrick, followed by Bros. Stewart, Dickinson, Crumpton and A. G. Mosely. Report adopted. (Exhibit B,)

Bro. E. P. George of Cahaba Association and Bro. W. A. Parker, Sr., of South Bethel Association, were intro- duced to the Association as visitors. After prayer by Bro. G. S, Anderson, adjourned until 7 145 p. m.

Afternoon Session.

Services commenced at 7:45, at which Bro. A. T- Dickinson preaciiad the inductory sermon from the Sth chapter of Corrinthians, part of 23 and 24 verses. "Wheth er any do inquire of Titus he is my partner and fellowhelp- er concerning you or our brethren be inquired of they are the messengers of the churches and the glory of Christ. Wherefore show ye them and before the churches the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

After which the As.'ocia'cion was called to order by Bro. J. F. Savell, Moderator pro tem. When the report of Institute Work was taken up, Bro. A. J. Dickinson read the report. Bro. G, S. Anderson of Auburn, of the Institute Board was called to Hie floor and ably addressed the Association in this cause. Report Adopted. (Exhibit C)

Bro. A. J. Dickinson moved as amendment to report on Institute Board, that the Apportionment Committee be re- quested to apportion one hundred dollars for this work next year. So ordered.

Bro. A. J. Dickinson vouched fifty dollars from the ist Baptist Church of Selma.

Bro. A. J. Dickinson moved that a collection be taken lor the Institute Board, and the amount of $6.25 was raised.

Adjourned with prayer by Bro. W. B. Crumpton.

Approved Aug. 16, 189Q.

August i6th, 1S99. Devotional exercises conducted by Bro. J. R. Crumpton

Association called to order by the Moderator. Com-

mittees to report at this session appointed as follows :

On Finance — Miles Hardy, D, B. Edwards, J. A. Mauldin, W. D. S. Morgan and Ed Graham.

On Nominations — J. I. Kendrick, S. J. Yates, R. Sumerlin and M. C. Day.

On Time and Place— M. T. Weisinger, J. P. Maxwell, M. H. Traylor, O. P. Woodruff, W. E. Purifoy and R. B. Hare.

On State of Religion in the Churches — J. B. Powell, Alfred Edwards, William Norris, Law Lamar and W . E. Day.

' On Apportionment— B. F. Ellis, W. P. Welch, G. K Bradley, Thos. ]. Williams, K. D. Stewart, J. P. Mellon, [. R. Crumpton, M. H. Traylor, W, H. Kendrick, W. M. Stewart, W. T. Cowlin.

Bro. C. C Russell of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Dr. J. \V. Shoaff of the ist Methodist Church, Bro. Van Campin of the R. R. Y. M. C A., G. A. Hor- naday of the Institute Board and Professor F. M Roof, President of Howard College, were recognized and invited to seats with us.

Reports on missions :

ist. Foreign Missions, report read by J, E. Barnes. (Exhibit D.)

2nd, Home Missions, report by H. A. Haralson. (Exhibit E.)

3rd, State Missions, report read by Bro. J. I. Kendrick. (Exhibit F.)

Discussion opened by Bro. W. B Crumpton, followed by Bro. A. J. Dickinson. Report adopted.

Bro. Savell moved to amend programme to read that the subject of Education be taken up at 2 :30 instead of the subject of Temperance, which v/ill be taken up at 10:15 a. m. on the 17th.

After pr lyer by Bro. R. G. Patrick, adjourned until 2 :30 p. m.

At 2 :3o p. m., after singing, the Association was called to order by the Moderator.

Comaiittee on Time and Place of next meeting, reported the 1st Tuesday in September, I900 as the lime, and the place Orrville, Ala. Report adopted.

The report on Temperance submitted by Bro. Alfred Edwards, was then read by the Clerk; and discussion of same was opened by Bro, J. F. Savell, followed by Bros. E. P. George and W. A, Parker, Sr. Report adopted. (Exhibit G )

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Report on Sunday School read by Bro. W. I^. VV^eldi. Discussion opened by Bro. J. R- Crumplon; after which a general discussion was had by members of different Sunday Schools. Report adopted. (Exhibit H.)

Report on Woman's Work read by Bro. J. F. SavelL After the discussion the report was adopted, carrying with it a resolution to print the proceedings of the woman's meeting in the minutes of the Association. (Exhibit I.)

Report ot Treasurer M, H. Traylor was read and adopted (Exhibit )'.)

Committee on Nominations reported as follows :

To preich Missionary Sermon, J. E. Barnes.

To preach Introductory Sermon, J. B. Powell.

Delegates to Southern Baptist Convention — J. F. Wat- son ; alternate, J F. Savell.

Delegates to Baptist State Convention — H. A. Haral- son. Miles Hardy, Lewis Johnson, J. B. Powell. J. R. Crumpton, W H Kendnck, B. F. Ellis, Paul Carson, j. M. Fortune, ). A. Mauldin.

Executive Committee — H. S. D. Mallory, J. B. Powell, J. A. Mau'din, J. P. Maxwell and T. P. McCrary.

There being no business to come before the Association tonight, the body adjourned until 10:15 a. m., Aug. 17th. After prayer by Prof. F. M. Roof of Howard College,

8 p. m. Services opened by singing; after which Bro. A. G. Mosely preached the Missionary Sermon from Acts 13-29: "Separate me, Paul and Barnabas unto the work whereunto I have called t.-.em."'

Approved Aug. 17, 1899

Aug. 17th, 1899.

10:15 '"i- iTi- Devotional services led by Bro. J. A. Mauldin, after which the Association was called to order by the Moderator. Minutes of the preceeding day read and approved. Committee on State of Religion in the churches made report which was adopted. (Exhibit K.)

Committee on Finance handed in their report, which on motion of Bro. A. J. Dickinson was refered to the Execu- tive Committee for completion and then ordered entered in the minutes. (Exhibit L )

Report of Apportionment Committee was read and adopted. (Exhibit M.)

Report on Education read as follows :

ist. Ministerial Education by Bro. J. B. Powell. (Exhibit N )

2nd. General Education by Bro. A. J. Dickinson. (Exhibit O.)

Discussion was opened by President F. M. Roof of Howard College, followed by Bro. J. F. iSavell, Bro, A. J. Dickinson and Bro. Howard of the Alabama Baptist. Re- port adopted. (Exhibit N and O.)

Bro. VV. N, Hucabee of Pine Barren Association, was recognized as a visitor of the Association.

Bro. A. J. Dickinson moved and was carried that the Executive Committee arrange the program for next session.

Bro. A. J. Dickinson moved that the Executive Com- mittee prepare a blank letter to be used by the churches in sending up reports to the Association, and that said com- mittee be also authorized to fiill vacancies to the Southern Baptist Convention and State Baptist Convention. Carried.

Standing committees to report at session of I900:

On State MisMons — B. F. Ellis, chairman, Thos. J. Williams, Edward Graham, W. M. Stewart, H. H Miley.

On Foreign Missions — J. B. Powell, chairman, J. P. Maxwell, W. C. Day, S. C. Stutts. J. D. John-^on.

On Home Missions — J. F Savell, chairman, J. R. Crumpton, J. P. Melton, Acey May.

On Sunday School — R. D. Stewart, chairman, W. P. Welch. C. E. Bruner, Miles Hardy, J. M. Lide, Jr.

On Temperance — J. T. Kendrick, chairman, D. B. Edwards, R Summerlin, VV. E. Puiifoy. VV. T. Cowling,

On General Education — J. E. Barnes, chairman, T. P. McCrary, E. M. Byrne, W. D. S. Morgan,

On Ministerial Education — A. J. Dickinson, chairman, Wm. Norris, J. A. Mauldin, G K. Bradley.

On Literature — J. F. W at son, chairman, S. J. Yates. H. A. Haralson, Geo. B. Burns.

On Womans Work — Paul Carson, chairman, Alfred Edwards, M. H. Traylor, Edward Day.

On Orphans Home — W. T. Weisinger, chairman, O. P. Woodruff, R. B. Hare, W. H. Kendrick.

Bro. Powell introduced a resolution to empower the Executive Committee to ascertain the cost of a trip to the Southern Baptist Convention. Siid resolution refered to Execuiive Committee, with power to act. (Exhibit P.)

Bro. Savell moved and it was ordered that the clerk as- certain tlie cost of printing minutes and if sufficient funds were not in hand, to call on the churches for their pro rata share.

Bro. Dickinson moved that the Treasurer be instructed to turn over all moneys coming into his hands to the proper channels with?ut further orders. Carried.

Bro. Powell introduced a resolution empowering the Executive Committee to investigate the condition of the

pastorless churclies of this Association, and request the pa-stors to do as much missionary work amonpf them as possible, also to confer with the State Board of Missions as to supplying the destitute regularly. So ordered.

Bro. D. B. Edwards introduced a resolution of thanks as follows :

Resolved, That the sincere thanks of this Association are tendered to the Second Baptist Church and members of the First Church for their friendly hospitality during our stay, also to Bro. J. F. Savell for his untiring efforts in behalf of our comfort.

On motion the Association adjourned sini die, after singing of song and prayer by Bro. Hucabee,

EXHIBIT A. ORPHAN S HOME.

Among the interests fostered by the Baptists of Ala- bama, the cnuse of little children left without father or mother, or both, appeals directly to the Christian heart more forcibly than all others.

The appeal has culminated in ? generous response. A iitlle more tii-^n six years ago a number of brethren moved by the spirit of Christ rented a small house in Evergreen, where the Orphanage began its existence. This Christly spirit has widened and deepened under the ;udicious leader- ship of that lovable man of God, Bro. Jno. W. Stewart, until we have a valuable property, entirely paid for, into which have been gathered 50 boys and 69 girls, 119 all told. There has been placed in Christian homes 28 boys and 27 girls, total 55 ; leaving in the Home 22 boys and 42 girls, or a total of 64 children.

Thess are under the care of our secretary and three sweet spirited Godly women, making the home life all that could be desired. Indeed, the entire training is that of a well regulated family, every child being required to per- form such al otted duties as !ire suited to his or htr ability and capacity, to go to school, observe family worship, attend Sunday School and church. Assuring us that the children are being brought up under the "nurture and admonition of God."

Our Secretary tells us it requires $10 per day to sup- port the now large family, and they have no income save the offerings of God's people

Brethren, bear in mind that the Home is dependent on the churches, from them it must draw life and su'^tenance. Neglecting this great interest we ignore a "priceless heri-

tage.'" "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Your committee earnestly recommends the adoption of the follow^ing resolution :

Resolved, That each church collect and forward to the Secretary at Evergreen, the amount apportioned to the Orphanage by Dec. 1st, 1899. And that each Sunday School in addition to this take regular collections for the current expenses of the institution.

Respectfully submitted,

Miles Hardy,

Chairman Committee.

EXHIBIT B. DENOMINATIONAL I^ITEI? ATURE .

" Every mind was made for growth, for know- ledge ; and its nature is sinned against when it is doomed to ignorance,"

Good literature, like good company, makes good men and women, and is the foundation for noble characters and useful and happy lives.

We cannot commence too early to select the books and papers for our children. Of course, this responsibility is with parents, but thev are greatly helped or hindered by the secular school teacher.

We do most earnestly request that the men and women of this Association guard against immoral and sensational books and papers entering their homes, but on the contrary we encourage the reading and study of such literature as will be for our education and lasting profit and comfort. Above all we should daily search God's words.

As to our denominational literature, we find that this Association is loyal to our Sunday School board at Nash- ville. We are glad to notice the improvement in the Ala- bama Baptist, and regret so few subscribers in our midst, and suggest that our pastors and the owners of this paper shall be more diligent in personal efforts to send this paper into every home.

We call special attention to our Missionary Journals and believe our interests in the extension of Christ's King- dom will be greatly manifested as we read these papers.

In order to have churches undivided, well informed, liberal and useful they must be well supplied with Baptist literature, I<et us see that this is done speedily.

Law Lamar,

Chairman.

EXHIBIT C, INSTITUTE WORK.

Your committee on the work of the Institute Board would report :

1. That the Board has now been operating two years and by its fruits has won a place in the hearts of many of our brethren of the churches. We believe that an adequate acquaintance with its methods and ends will win not only the approval of every sincere follower of Christ but his co- operation and contribution. "By their fruits ye shall know them," from this point of view we ask our brethren to give attention to this important movement.

2. The function of the work of this Board is to reach and help the ministry on the field. The Board of Ministe- rial Education is to help the brethren who are preparing for the ministry, whereas, our work is with the pastors already in the field. There is no reason why our efforts to improve our ministry should cease when the brethren called of God undertake the work to which God has called them, but on the contrary all through life they have need to grow and develop to higher a.id wider usefulness. This work our Board has undertaken by giving opportunities for increas- ing ones knowledge of tlie truth of God, his training in eilicient methods of proclaiming it, and skill in operating the churches over which God has placed them.

3. A glance over the thousands of men of our denomi- nation in charge of our churches shows how great is the need of better equipping them for this sacred work, while their gifts give every promise of rich return to the churches for every effort spent thereunto. A ministry cultured unto the work of Christ in keeping with our times is one of the great present day needs of the Baptists. No other line of work gives promise of richer return.

4. In meeting this need your Bonrd has held eleven institutes during the hist eight months attended by one hundred and fifty-eight preachers, besides many other breth- ren in the churches. Last year the Board held ten insti- tutes attended by a hundred and thirty preachers. There are four institutes already provided for during the remain- ing months of the conventional year with others in prospect. The Board is a great agency in preparing and providing for a more highly developed and genuine and organized fellow- ship among our pastors who are to be leaders of the churches in all missionary, educational and benevolent enterprises. Surely none acquainted with our present condition will fail to see what an unspeakable blessing this v/ould be to the

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Alabama Baptists. The Board also edits and operates one page of the Alabama Baptist in the interest of its work. Besides these lines of work our Superintendent of Institutes Bro. G. S. Anderson, of Auburn, Ala., conducts regularly a course of correspondence study with any and all pastors and preachers who may desire to use this agency for their improvement

5. We bespeak for this work the cordial sympathy and earnest co-operation of the churches of the Selma As- sociation and ask for a contribution for its maintenance and enlargement.

A. J, Dickinson,

Chairman.

EXHIBIT D. FOREICxN MISSIONS.

Your committee to report on Foreign Missions beg leave to submit the following :

The promise, "and lo ! T am with you all the days," was made by Jesus, the great head of the church nearly I9 centuries ago to the little band of His followers as they had gathered about Him on that solitaire mountain. This promise has been literally fulfilled in every instance where His followers have been obedient to Him. It was so in the early centuries. It has been so through all the centuries. And today we can claim His presence, guidance and help if we are willing to follow His leadings, though it may lead us unto the uttermost parts of the world, and into rivers of hardships, even unto death. No one who has ever gone out in obedience to his Lord's command to give the gospel to the entire world, to every creature, has returned to s jy that the gospel of Christ was not adapted to the peo- ple of that nation, wherever that nation may have been, and that His divine presence was not with him.

In every instance they have returned to relate to their fellow workers the victories of the cross of Christ. The work has been, is, and will be a glorious success if we com- ply with the marching orders of our great Leader and Saviour, "Go ye into the world and preach the gospel to every nation."

As the great host ot Southern Baptists met in Louis- ville, Ky., last May, they felt that God had indeed been with them during the year. Dr. R. J. Willingham, Cor- responding Secretary of the Foreign Mission Board brought the glad news that the board was out of debt. This was due, we are sorry to say, not to the incre.ised contribution of

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our churches, but to the closest management and the cutting down of expenditures. During the year the entire amount given to this work being $109,000, When the encouraging news was read of the work that had been done in the six fields nor occupied by our convention, when the fields were shown to be white unto harvest, and reinforcements were being called for on each ot these fields, the spirit of the Master filled the hearts of the brethren, and they decided that it was now time for a great forward movement in our Mission Work, so they called for enlargement, which means that we are expected to increase our contributions during the pre- sent year twenty-five per cent.

Last year Alabama gave between five and six thousand dollars ; this year we are asked to gve $8,000. There are many things to encourage us in this work, the large number of baptisms on th^ field last year, 845 ; the native Christians in many instances are r5U[>porcing their own pastor in full or in part, the activity of the native Christians in giving their people the gospel, without money and without price.

We note with much joy the organization in our South China Mission a publication society, with Rev. R. E. Chambers as manager. The printed page will accomplish much for the cause in China. Another thing to encourage us is the excellent business management of our board. Last year, notwithstanding the comparatively small amount given, 85 cen\s of each dollar sent to Richmond, went direct to our missionaries. Let us take encourage and press forward.

The Foreign Mission Journal of August gives the fol- lowing tabulated statement in regard to this work :

China — Work began in 1S45, at present we have 40 missionaiies, 55 native assistants, 22 churches, baptism in 1S99, 437, membership 1,802.

Work in Africa began in iS^^o, missionaries 6, native assistants 10, churches 6, baptism in 1899, 37, member -

ship 341-

Work in Italy began in 1870, missionaries i, native assistants 2o, churches 32, baptism m 1S99, 38, member- ship 51S.

XVork in Mexico began in 1S80, missionaries lo, native assistants 19, churches 26, baptism in 1899, 45, member- bership 1,091.

Work in Brazil began in 18S2, missionaries 18, native assistants 17, churches 23, baptism in 1899, 2S5, member- ship 1,524.

Work in Japan began in 1S89, missionaries 7, native

assistants 7, churches i, baptism I3, membership 71.

Total, missionaries 82, native assistants 128, churches 100, baptisms in 1S99, 845, membership 5,347. Respectfully submitted,

J. E. Barnes,

Committee.

EXHIBIT E. HOME MISSIONS.

Your committee believes that the scope of such a report as is intended by this Association relates primarily to the work done during the past year by the churches of said body, and the purposes, objects and intentions of said churches in the direction of Home Missions for the coming year. What have tiie churches done since the Association last met, and what do they propose to do in the year to come? What the churches have done should be known in order to stimulate and inspire to higher and greater efforts for the future. To know well the business in hand is always an essential stimulus for the success of any urder- taking.

No regular, uniformed system of reports for the churches to make to the Association has yet been devised or adopted, but the letters are written, in many instances. m a careless or indifferent manner, leaving out essential statistics and information for the use of your body. This should be corrected, and to that end, therefore, your com- mittee suggests and advises the adoption of a resolution, urging the churches to use a letter of uniform character, setting forth in condense form the statistics of each church within the bounds of the Association, including the finan- cial status and benevolence of such churches, with the request that they shall use these letters in making reports to your body; and that they be forwarded to the clerk of the Association, at least one week before the annual meeting of same. And these letters, too, should give some expression of the purpose and intention of the churches towards mis- sionary work for the incoming year.

Your committee then reports that the amount given by the churches of the Association to the Home Board of the Southern Baptist Convention for the past year, as gathered from the letters to the Association, aggregate the sum of $160.75, ^'^d in the absence of information of what the churches will do for the next year it cannot report.

But we conceive that it is not enough on such an occa- sion as this for a report of this character to be confined to its prima"y objects. Something else should be done. To

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give inspiration, to educate, to widen tlie hopes and enlarge the desires of every servant w^earing the livery of our Mas- ter, and to stimulate the best resolves of every soul, in car- rying out the orders received from headquarters, to spread the gospel everywhere on this earth, comes within the pur- view of our duty. Hence, we deem it not only important to lay before you what you have done in your own special locality, but what our yoke-fellows have accomplished during the year. That we may then intelligently under- stand our system, look over the field and assist in educating and inspiring our hearts for higher and better work. We beg to present the following information on Home Missions and the Home Mission Board of our Convention, for which we bespeak your patient and earnest attention. Much of it is drawn from the able and elaborate report made by said Board to the Convention assembled at Louisville, Ky., in May last.

We think it then pertinent at this time to enquire what is comprised by the Home Mission Board of our denomina- tion ? What it is and what are its duties? Who compose it? What has it accomplished and where does it labor? Simple questions these to the informed, but necessary to be asked and emphasized, to be repeated and drilled into the hearts and minds of the young and of many an mdifferent and unthinking Christian in our midst before they become a part and parcel of their very life.

We answer then that it is one of the Boards of the Southern Baptist Convention, a purely missionary body, charged with the duty of administering the mission work of sa^'d Convention within its bounds ; to collect and disburse to the best advantage, the gifts o( the various churches, associations and other auxiliary bodies of the Convention ; and to enthuse, stimulate and educate the Baptist people of our land in the great privilege of hastening the coming of the kingdom of our Lord. It builds houses of worship and assists m repairing sam.e. It distributes bibles and tracts, and appoints missionaries to preach the gospel and to orga- nize or assist in organizing churches, Sunday Schools, con- firming and edifying the saints and baptizing the converted and believing everywhere in its bounds.

The Board consists of a President, fifteen Vice-Presi- dents, a Corresponding Secretary, Treasurer, Recording Secretary and auditor, supplemented with fifteen local managers, all among the wisest and best of our denomina- tion. It is located in Atlanta, Ga., and does its work promptly, efficiently, economiacally and fa'thfully. And

as there is strength and powftr in union, it solidifies and concentrates the efforts of all to the one great object in view.

How well this has been done, let a summary of the last year's work show. These were :

Missionaries employed 653

Weeks of labor done 17.424

Churches and stations helped 2,580

Sermons and addresses made. 64,718

Prayer meetings held 12,620

Religious visits made 108,336

Baptisms administered ^'552

Received by letter 12,983

Churches constituted 194

Houses of worship built 92

Houses of worship improved 252

Amount expended on houses of worship. . . $71,027

Sunday Schools organized . 5,12

Pupils and teachers employed 14,768

Bibles and testaments distributed 17.104

Pages of tracts 1,260,572

It raised and expended last year ^65.8iS.Si, against $54'25i'04 year before.

It collected and expended on houses of worship $50,050.33 against $56,385.46 year before.

It received in cash $89,561.40; making a total of $205,430.54

Commencing in 1845, with a few devoted and conse- crated men, it has increased the amount it handled yearly from the paltry sum of about $4,000— scarcely enough to discharge, at first the expenses of the office — to the magnifi- cent sum of over $205,000 per year, as shown, and re- ceived and paid out a grand total of over $1,500,000 in car- rying out its work. Fifty years ago when t!ie Board was organized, it was like d small stream of the mountain, ''furnishing at first scarcely suflicient water to float the toy ship of a school boy, but it has flowed on and on, gather- ing strength and power and beauty in its resistless sweep, until now, like a great river, it has grown broad and deep, and, as it approaches its ocean home, it spreads its bosom exultingly out, able to float the navies of the world." I'hen the Baptists ot the south did not exceed 450,000, about equally divided between the whites and blacks; now they number over 3,000,000; then they were regarded as igno- rant and bigoted; now they stand among the best, intellec- tually, socially and financially. Broad in culture, refine-

15

ment and religious toleration, the denomination now num- bers amongst its membership men of scholarship, ability and eloquence; then it had no schools and colleges of note or renown ; now it has institutions of learning of as high rank as any, both male and female, from Maryland to Texas. And in all of this progress and prosperity the Home Board has been no insignificant factor. Besides this it has aided too indirectly in the advance in foreign fields, where the Baptist have now 2,000 churches, 2,500 preach- ers, 12,000 baptisms last year and have expended the large sum of $500,000.

And in all this grand work we should not fail to recog- nize the splendid assistance received from the co-operative bodies of the Board — especially that of the Woman's Mis- sionary Union. This body contributed last year the mag- nificent sum of $36,696.73 in cash, and in boxes for mis- sionaries. A wonderful work, and such as we may always expect from the Godly, pious and devoted women of our great denomination.

All along the lines gains are noted, as instance the following :

Missionaries employed 653 as agamst 467 last year.

Baptisms 6,552 as against 4,739 last year.

Total additions to churches 12,983 as against 9,509 last year.

Sunday Schools organized 512 as against 297 last year.

Pupils and teachers 14,708 as against 7,710 last year.

Brethren : God is blessing our efforts, and stretching out our bounds. Let all lend a helping hand. "The Mas- ter is come and is calling for thee."

The line of the Boards territory stretches along the northern boundary of Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, Mis- souri, the Indian Territory and a part of Texas ; and sweep- ing away to the western frontier of the last named state it runs southward down the Rio Grande river for a thousand miles along that stream 'o the sea, and including all of those states and regions, together with all of the other Southern States and the western portion of Cuba. Truly a grand empire in which to work for Christ. It adds to its work, not only that which it is bestowing in this territory upon the Anglo-Saxon race, but upon the fast increasing and ignorant foreign population constantly pouring into it, upon the negroes, the Indians and the wild mountaineers of same, as well a? the Spanish speaking people in the island ot Cuba, from whom the shackles of Romish superstitution and tyranny have been happily and recently stricken.

i6

This is a vast and extensive field, full of energy, activity and thrift, full of energy, eager for the proclamation of the gospel of truth and freedom; increasing in population, power and prosperity, and demanding constant, wise and faithful supervision, by devoted, capable -md pendent administrators of such a great trust.

Such we have in the Home Mission Board, at Atlanta. Self reliant, trusting in God, believing in His promises, '•attempting great things for God and expecting great things from Him," they bend to the task imposed. They are keep- ing the light of the gospel shining in the dark places, and among his people, so that its rays may be seen irom afar, and hailed from all over the world. They keep the foun- tain flowing, pure, fast and strong Trom the throne of God, that the nations may see, and drink, and live, Christ here "shall see of the travail of his soul and be satisfied." Our children too, will, when this glorious consumation is fin- ished and rounded out, be like the vision of poets of old, whom Goethe so beautifully describes. Sufficiently provid- ed for within, they will have need of little from without." They will have "the gift of imparting lofty emotions and glorious images to men, in melodies and words that will charm the ear, and fix themselves inseparablv on what- ever they touch, and which of old enraptured the world and servid the gifted as a rich inheritance. At the Courts of Kings, at the tables ot the great, under the windows of the fair, the sound of them will be heard, while the ear and the soul will be shut for all beside; and men will feel as we do when delight comes over us, and we pause with rapture, if, among the dingles we are crossing the voice of the nightengale starts out, touching and strong. "God's arm is not shortened." "He is taithful and true."

Let us then be liberal, solid and steady and like the squares of England's soldiers at the battle of Waterloo v/hen the desperate charge of the Old Guard had failed, heed the order of our Great Captain, "up and at them," and pursue the fleeing foe. We will then, with God's help, carry our cause to victory over all the armies of the evil one, and throw down the conquored world at our Master's feet.

May God bless the Home Board.

H. A. Haralson,

Chairman,

17

EXHIBIT F. STATE MISSIONS.

The Board of Missions of our State Convention is charged with the work ot fostering in the state the work of missions in the three departments according to our orga- nized work — State, Home and Foreign.

This report has to do only with the first of these three mentioned. The Saviour said to His disciples : "Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost has come upon you and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem and in all judea and in Samaria and unto the uttermost parts of the earth." "All Judea," was to these early followers of our Lord what the state of Alabama is to us. So that we have here our Lord's commission to be witnesses for him in all parts of this our own state.

For almost a quarter or a century the Baptists of the state have been making some organized eflfort toward car- rying out this commission. So that we have not been altogether di'^obedient to the marching orders of our Cap- tain. Progress in vState Mission work means progress in the other two departments of our mission work— Home and Foreign Sufficient proof of the truth of this 's the fact that some of the churche>< that now contribute most liberally to Home and Foreign Missions received donations from the funds for State Missions Among this number are to be found what are now some of the strongest and most efficient churches in the state. Some were saved to the denomina- tion and to the Lord's cause because ot the help given by the Board of Missions in their time of need.

The Board has in its employ now in tie state two evangelists and eleven missionary pastors. But what has been done is small as compared to what can and ought to be done. The number of missionary pastors ought to be greatly increased and indeed muse be if we are to make progress The increase of population in the mining and factory towns furnishes a field for missionary activity that should stir the heart of every true disciple of the Lord amongst us ; quicken our zeal and greatly increase our contri- butions. As yet these new fields have been practically untouched. They are our unpossessed possessions. Let us go up and possess them, for we are well able to overcome. We have many things to encourage, two of which deserve special mention in the opinion of your committee. One of these is the payment of the debt on the Board, amounting to about .$2,700. The liquidation of this debt has taken away one of the greatest hindrances to our progress. The

iS

other thinfT tliat should greatly encourage us is the return of our I3ro. W. B. Crumpton to the state as Corresponding Secretary. Fie is a man of God and one greatly honored and loved by us. He knows the Baptists of the state as no other man does and has recognized ability as a leader. We believe that altho he has waded the deep waters of affliction in coming, his coming is of God. Shall we not rally- around him as our leader and follow him as he follows our great Captain in developing a missionary zeal and enthu- siasm such as has never been displayed in Alabama. Respectfully submitted,

J, L Kendrick,

For Committee.

EXHIBIT G. TEMPERANCE.

This Association of JBaptist Churches but keeps the commandments of Jesus when advocating temperance.

The evils which intempeiance has brought upon us are so tremendous and threaten such ruin to the morals and the liberties of our country that good men tremble everywhere.

The voice of the Christian is raised lO call for the help of every man and for the help oi the Lord

The manufacture, sale and US'? of ardent spirits is licensed by law, which gives to it the semblance of respec- tability and makes it thi; harder to disillusion its votaries.

In places within our bounds the drink habit iscommon ; but is drunkenness fraught with any the iess ruin to body and soul because we see it at the court house, in the road, along the street, at the place of election and in our homes.

Its victims f^ll our asylums of penury, madness ami crime; its wretched effects are in evidence in every com- munity, and every good man ought to consider the means remedy.

Our churches ought to severely discipline every one that lends encouragement to it in any form.

Will all help'' Ye who have lived long in preservation from its harm? Ye young men whom God especially ad- monishes to be sober-minded? Ye who makes and expound our laws? Ye who are sent to preach the gospel to the poor, proclaim liberty to the captive, ?nd an open prisott to them that are bound? Ye whom we love as mothers, as wives, and as sisters, and whose influence is mightier than all?

Urge temperance upon your children, press it upon your neighbors, pray for the aid of God and we shall prevail. Alfred Edwards.

19

EXHIBIT H. SUNDAY SCHOOI.S.

This branch of our religious training is one of the most important in our field of work, and we would endeavor to impress upon the members of the Association and congre- gations the great necessity of a closer study and better development of this department of our religious work.

From reports filed with the Secretary of the Count}' Sunday School Convention held a few weeks ago, we learn that there is great room for work in this line through out our associational district. Some localities are entirely destitute of a Sunday School, while others manifest very little interest.

The proper maintaining of Sunday Schools is of the most vital importance to the future of our churches, for it is from them that the church must draw largely her mem- bership and support.

We would recommend that each and every church have a Sunday School, and insist that the elder members and parents not only see that the children imder their care and protection attend the Sunday School, but that they attend with them.

The most of our Sunday Schools are made up of the children of young and tender age, with a small sprinkling of young men and ladies, and we would impress the elder members with the great responsibility that rests upon them in bringing up these children. God never put them into your hands that their lives miglit be wasted, but He intrust- ed vou with a precious soul to care for, and train for His coming kingdom, and yoti cannot do this and remain indifferent and negligent to the moral training, while in tender childhood.

We note the vast improvement in our denominational >unday School literature and periodicals, and would recom- mend that all our schools use the literature from our Sun- day School Board, also that proper records be kept of the attendance and contributions so as to invoke an interest in attendance and giving to the Lord, and be able to tell vv'.iat ^ our Sunday School is doing. We have an Orphan's Home wliich is filled with children from all sections of the state and we think it Mppropriate that the Sunday School b« interested to contribute regularly to the support of these children, and would suggest th.it the 'Sunday School set apart one Sunday in eacli quarter for a collection for the Orphan's Home, and that the contributi ms of that day be sent to the Orphans' Home as an offering from thechildren.

W, P. Wklch, Chiirmiii.

20 EXHIBIT I. Ay»b'MAN's WORK.

This report will be brief. At the last meeting of the As- sociafion twoladies from each church in the Association were requested to organize a regular Woman's Missionary Society in their respective churches 'ind arrange for a woman's meeting in connection with the Association at this assem- bly. Many letters were exchanged and some meetings held to prepare a programme. The success of this new feature may be seen by referring to the report of the woman's meet- ing. Your committee would recommend that the Secretary ot the Association sjet a full report of the woman's meeting and have the same printed in the minu^^es of the Association

J. F. Savell, Chairman of Committee.

EXHIBIT J. treasurer's REPORT.

M. H. Tray lor, Treasurer,

In account with Selma Baptist As^'ociation.

DR.

Aug. i6, 1S99.

Amount received from Finance Committee .$61.27

CR.

Aug. 16, 1899.

By voucher No. i, W. C. Bledsoo, missions. . . .$20.91 By voucher No. 2, J. VV. Stewart, Orphan's

Home y.So

By voucher No. 3, C. C. Jones, Min. Education 5.06 By voucher No. 4, Lewis Johnson, minutes. ... 27.50

$61.27 Respectfully submitted,

M. H. Trayi.ou,

^Veasurer. Audited and found correct,

D. B. Edwards, Chairman Finance Committee.

exhibit K. state of RELIGION.

We find on the roll 1 8 churches, 13 are represented, 5 are not, 6 churches report meetings held with 38 baptized.

6 report prayer meetings. While there has been an increase in the contributions, yet in no case has the apportionment been met. All of the churches report Sunday Schools. But there is a problem in connection. The churches report 1020 members. The Sunday Schools report enrolled 630 pupils. Average attendance 396. Out of this number enrolled at least 350 are children and out of 396 average attei^dance, at least 225 are children — non members We ask where are the 850 on the Lord's day? Men and women who ought to be at work for the Master.

Everything in connection with the letters breathe an air of indifference It is apparent that a feeling of lethagy and ease is permeating the lives of our people, and they are not enjoying as much religion as is their privilege. These things ought not to be.

J. B Powell,

For Committee.

EXHIBIT M. FINANCE REPORT.

REPORT OF APPORTIONMENT COMMITTEE.

CHURCHES.

Selma, 1st church. . .

Ash Creek

Benton

Bettiany

Center Ridge

Mt. Gilead

Hopewell

Orrville . . .

Pleasant Hill

Providence .... Selma, 2nd church...

Sister Springs

Shiloh

Town Creek

M<acedonia

New Bethel .

Ruhama

Immanuel

,$ 600 00 5 00 20 00 30 00 30 00 60 00 25 00 150 00

m 00

75 00 50 00 10 00 50 00

100 00

5 00

'-> 00

5 00

40 00

•- es

•5W

50 00

5 00

5 00

10 00

10 00

20 00

10 00

25 00

20 00

25 00

20 00

5 00

10 00

15 00

5 00

5 00

5 00

10 00

a

03

.$120 00

5 05

10 00

10 00

10 00

20 0(1

10 00

25 00

20 00

25 00

10 00

5 00

15 00

50 00

5 00

5 00

5 00

15 00

$1320 00 $255 00|$.365 00 $100 00 $2040 CO

o

$ 50 00

5 66

5 00 5 00

10 00 5 00 5 00 5 (>0

5 00

5 00

o H

820 00

15 00

40 00

55 00

55 00

ICO 00

45 00

210 00

105 00

130 00

85 00

20 00

75 00

170 00

15 00

15 00

15 00

70 00

W. P. Wklch,

For Committee.

22 EXHIBIT N. MINISTERIAL EDUCATION,

Power is what we want. Power to turn back the great tide of evil and sin and bring a wave of blessing over our land, in which Jesus Christ shall be the central feature. The great foundation stone. How to do this, and bring the masses into subjection and lay them at the feet of Jesus, has been and is the perplexing question of all ages. The tendency of things today. The signs of our times shows conclusively that the solution lies in an educated ministry. A country's ministry are truly her representative men, and no people ever rise above the level of their pastors. Jesus Christ himself gave to us the idea of an educated ministry, gathering the men about him who constituted the twelve. He gave thought upon thought, precept upon precept, parable upon parable until they were fully prepared for the work in every detail. Then sending out the seventy he gives all the instructions necessary for a hasty pioneering mission, telling them what to do in places where a want of time on His part would not suffice to supply. He knew they would meet with persecution and opposition and would prepare them. The world today is not in harmony with the gospel of God. Indeed — it is in opposition, obsta- cLs are to be met — great evils are to be resisted and over- come. And the churches must do it under the leadership of skillful and'efficient pastors.

The men who are to stand in the front, in the thickest of the fight for God, must be fully equipped, they must be armed and panopled so as they can "rightly divide the word of truth and give to each his portion in due season.'* The present state of society, the age, the world demand in no uncertain tone an educated ministry. The men are ready, they are anxious. The places are prepared, but alas the means are not forthcoming Howard college, now free from debt, offers increased facilities for the education of those who in a few years must hold the old gospel ship steady and anchor it safely. Let us thank God for the institution — stand by her and place our young men within her walls. Then we have the Seminary at Louisville, whose work needs no recommendation. All over our state we can see the fruitage in the efficient work of the men made ready by "her," in the power of a well rounded educ ition to bear to all men the glad tidings of eternal salvation.

Let us labor for these institutions. They are ours. I.et us, with the means God has placed in our hands, so richly, endow them, that tlie brethren in charge shaU

23

have no care, no thought, save the better preparation of the men to preach the unsearchable riches. There is no better place for such a crusade to be^jjin than in this body today. Let us begin to give, and give more, until a mighty stream shall run through the Association, into which every church as a tributary, shall pour her contributions until the work assumes its proper proportions and thereby the world blessed

We recommend a hearty co-operation with the Minis- terial Board at East Lake. Through them let the churches divide contributions between Howard College and the Seminary in proportion to the need.

Respectfully submitted,

J. B. Powell,

Chairman.

EXHIBIT O. GENERAL EDUCATION.

Your Committee on General Education would report :

1. That the relieving of the Howard College and Judson from debts together with renewed interest awakened in them by the recent successful campaigns put these insti- tutions in better shape than ever before. We have reason to believe that no colleges in Alabama do better work than these and they should be liberally patronized by the people.

2. The outlook for private and donominational schools without large endowment is not at this time propitious. The present policy of st^ate schools, receiving a subsidy from the public treasury, thereby enabling them to cut rates below cost will it persisted in push unendowed denomina- tional colleges to the wall. We therefore recomment that the Alabama State Baptist Convention be petitioned to look into the matter and take proper steps to remove this danger.

A. J. Dickinson,

For Committee.

exhibit p.

Resolved, That before the ist day of May, 1900. the Secretarv shall estimate the Cv>st of the trip to the Southern Baptist Convention, and call on the churches for amounts proportionate to their ability to realize a sufficient amount to defray tiie expenses of our representatives to said body.

24

Minutes of the W. M. U. of the Helina Association.

Tuesday August 15th, 1899.

The VV. M. U. of the Selma Baptist Association met in its first regular session at the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at 10:30 a. m., with a very good attendance. The devotional exercises being led by Mrs. Law Lamar of the First Church, Selma. Mrs. S. E. Cothran in a very pleas- ing manner delighted the audience with an impressive and beauiiful solo. "Nearer My God to Thee."

Then followed the order of organization, Mrs. J. E.. McMullen being elected to the President chair and Miss Frank Turner to the Secretary table.

Mrs. J. F, Savell of the Second church, Selma, wel- comed our visiting members and delegates in a most charm- ing manner, while Miss Sadee Rudulph of Pleasant Hill,, ever in the alert, responded. Then followed the order of business.

Mrs R. W. Barnes read a very interesting paper. •■'Some reasons why woman's meeting is held apart from the main Association. The enrollment of delegates and visitors then followed. Fifteen delegates and a number o> visitors being present. They were as follows : Selma, First Church —

Mrs. Law Lamar, L. A. S.

Mrs. Peter Burke, M. M, W.

Miss Laura Hayward, H. H. S.

Miss Bryd Suttle, Y. L. S. 2nd Church, Selma —

Mrs. C. P. McMullen, W. M, U.

Mrs. R. W. Barnes, W. M. U.

Mrs. S. E. Orey, W. M. U. Collerine —

Miss Alma McGaugh, W. M. U.

Mrs. J. B. Powell, VV. M. U., Soapstone.

Miss Zadee Ellis, VV. M. U. Orrville.

Miss Lucy Crumpton, W. M. U. Pleasant HilL

Miss Mary Edwards, W. M. U. Sbiloh.

Reports weie read as follows :

First Church, Selma.

W. M. (J. expended $117.05.

L. A. Society expended $201 45.

Y. L. Circle expended $32.66.

Children's Boara expended $3,6.00..

Second Church„ Selma.

25

W. M. U. expended.

Town Creek Church.

W. M, U. expended $38.00.

Orrville Church.

W. M. U. expended -1?i95.oo.

Shiloh Church.

W. M. U. expended $33.00.

Mrs L. F. Stratton, President of the Central Com- mittee, Birmingham, was introduced to the Union, she gave a good report from the Central Committee.

Open discussion followed, after which no further busi- ness, the Union adjourned, to meet Wednesday morniug at 9 :45 a. m.

Mrs. J. E. McMuLi.EN, FiiANK. T. Turner, President.

Secretary .

August 1 6th. 1899.

The second session of the W M. U- of the Selma Bap- tist Association met in regular session at 9 145 a. m., in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Devotional exercises being led by Mrs. L. F. vStratton, of Birmingham. Mrs. H. A. Haralson read the report of the W^ M. U., to the Southern Baptist Convention and to the W. M. U. Socities and it was adopted.

The audience now being refreshed by a solo by Mrs. W. L. Ward, Miss Zadee Ellis, of Orrville, read the report the "Advantages of Organized Work." it was adopted.

Mrs. C. P. McMullen made a motion lo draw up reso- lutions and extf^nd a vote of thanks to the Presbyterians for the use of their church and to Mrs. Ward and Cothran and Mr. Harry Marshall for affording such lovely music during the Association. The motion was adopted nnd the follow- ing resolutions were made :

Resolved, We tiie members of the VV. M. U. of the Selma Association, desire to express our sincere thanks to the members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for the use of their building during the meeting of the Asso- ciation.

Resolved. We would express our gratitude to Mrs. Ward and Mrs. Cothran and Mr. Marshall for tlieir delight- ful music, which added much 10 the enjoyment of the meeting.

26

In expressing thanks the committee beg leave to include The Morning Times and Daily Journal for notices pub- lished. Respectfully subm.itted,

Mrs. Law Lamar, Mrs. R. W. Barnes, Miss Zadee Ellis,

Committee.

Mrs. R. W, Barnes made a motion, it being adopted, to leave the matter of selecting committee on programme to the President.

The following committee was appointed : Mrs. J. F. Watson, Mrs. R. S. Sutten, Mrs. H. L. Dudley, Mrs. Wm. Day, Mrs R. P. Oldham, Mrs. Peter Burke.

Miss Ellis read the report from the Ladies Missionary Society, OrrviHe, it being adopted.

The report on "Various interest fostered by tlie W. M. U.," was read, being discussed by Mrs. J. A. Mauldin with a paper on Foreign Missions, Mrs. R. P. Oldham, a paper on State Missions and Mrs. J. C. Kendrick a paper on Home Missions. Under these forms of interest, discus- sion was opened by Mrs. L. F. Stratton, followed by Mrs. R. P. Oldham, Mrs. Haralson and Mrs Lamar.

Another paper on Fronteer Boxes, read by Mrs. J. E. McMullen, the report was adopted. A motion made by Mrs Burke, it being carried, to record in the minutes.

The pledges made for the orphanage and for Frontier Boxes to be taken by the diflferent societies. Also to extend '\ a vote of thpnks to Mrs. Stratton for being with us during J our first session.

jSIo further business, the hymn "Blest Be The Tie T'hat Binds," was sung and the first session of th^ VV, M. U. of the Selma Association was clorsed, the prayer of dismission being led by Mrs. Stratton.

Mrs. McMullen,, Frank Turner, President.

Secretary.

THE STATE BOARI>.

The State Board of Missions heretofore so heavily encumbered, is ai labt free from debt, tor which we should be grateful. When the 77th session of the State Conven- tion met at Opelika great things had been accomplished towards freeing the Board from debt during the ten months

27

previous, but still there remained an indebtedness.

The Corresponding Secretary in his report said, "while we have not succeeded in entirely freeing the Board from debt, that which remains is within the sphere of easy liqui- dation." "If we had been given a full year instead of ten months, I have no doubt it would all have been paid." "This better condition of our finances," he continues, "has not been attained bv easy ways. Many sacrifices have been made. Many noble brethren and sisters all over the state have given devoted services to the Board work. We are due them a large share of gratitude. Rev. A. J. Preston was instructed to devote most of his time to desti*^ute places in his field. He most cheerfully complied with the request of the Board. His reports are most gratifying to us in every way While he has not been able to collect but a little over half of his salary, it was not expected as his labors were confined almost exclusively to desolate places, where people were unable to give, or had not been trained to giving. Reports submitted by our missionary pastors are most encouraging. The salaries of these brethrfen are supplemented by greater or less amounts, enabling them to live until their churches are self sustaining. Later reports from the committee show the Baptist denomination of Ala- bama to be entirely free from debt. Congratulations should bs extended to the entire brotherhood of the state, for their heroic efforts in this great undertaking.

We recognize that the burden has been grent, but the generous and royal support has cheered us to the end. Now that we no longer feel the heavy weight of debt hanging over us, what shall we do? Shall we content ourselves to be idle or shall we not rush forward with greater zeal and courage to fight for the Master's cause. We often say, "ring out the old, ring in the new,'" when the year's close is ai hand. Ho'v shall we step over the line of the new C'='ntury? With songs, prayers and gilts or empty handed? Let us resemble the wise men of old, and with worship in our hearts and gifts in our hands, let us go and worship our Lord.

When John Wesley laid the corner stone of the City Road Chapel of London, he preached from the text "What hatli God wrought." If he were here today no doubt he would preach with greater meaning and deeper emphasis from the same text.

Then what hath God wrought for us — for the Baptist denomination of Alabama. We have shared God's bless-

28

ings abundantly, for which we are grateful. Is there obstructions in the way? And does our faith hesitate? So it was with the trembling woman who went to the sepulchre, but when they came, behold the stone was already rolled away. Let no word of doubt be uttered, for doubt is infec- tious, but let each do his best aiid help the Board to accom- plish greater things in the future than in the past.

Lets attempt great things tcr God and expect great things of Him.

Mrs. p. R. Oldham, 2nd Baptist Church. Green Street, Selma, Ala.

HOME MISSIONS.

The work of Missions is all embracing. It extends not only to the greatest preachers and most efficient laborers, but even the humblest servant in the Master's kingdom has his share in thi'; great work. Our Savior's great commis- sion, "Go ye into all the world," was given to every one of us, and each of us will be held responsible for the carrying out of this, our Savior's last command. If, then, we are commanded to "Go," to whom must we go and carry this great m.essage of glad tidings? We need not look far to find this out ; for this same commission tells us "Into all the world." In still another place our Savior, in speaking to His followers says, "Ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth." What further gospel do we need to warrant us in pressing forward m the great work which we have undertaken ! No one can sneak out or hide from the responsibility, nor can he say that this place or that is not included in our Savior's command.

For convenience our work has been divided into three parts or classes — Foreign Missions, Home Missions and State Missions. Of the first we have already heard and of the last we are soon to hear. Let us now for a few minutes turn our thoughts to the considerition of Home Missions.

First of all what do we mean by Home Missions. Speaking generally, it is missions in our own home-land. "But why should we need missionaries in this enlighcened land," some one may say, ''I tho't missionaries were sent to ihe heathens." Ah, yes, my sister! they are; and did you know that there are heathens at our very doors? We need not even go to the frontiers or the mountain region to find these, but we see plenty of need for mission work

29

among the negroes all around us and also among the great number of foreigners in our large cities. In just these places and among just these people our Home Mission Board is endeavoring to send laborers.

The regions that are now thickly populated were once the frontier regions, and what if our iorefathers had not seen to it that gospel truth was implanted in the hearts of the settlers and their descendants? We should even now be in the midst of heathenism and v/ithout the great bless- ings which religious freedom brings to us. The frontiers of today will one day be teeming with life, for civilization is pressing westward, and upon us rests the responsibility of seeing that these regions are taken for the Lord. Not only today but future generations will tell how thorough and earnest has been our work in this line. Our frontiers are now Western Texas, Western Arkansas, Indian Terri- tory and Oklahoma. And in these fields almost one half of all the missionaries of our Home Board are at work. No greater hardships ot missionary life are to be found than in the lives of these frontier missionaries. Their poverty and meagre salaries often result in the barest supply of even the necessaries of life. In addition^to this, they are frequently located so far away from the cities, that it is impossible to secure these at any cost. The boxes sent out by our ladies' societies in some measure relieve this, as they generally contain many little articles scarce thought of by the mis- sionary and his wife and yet which seems absolute necessi- ties to us at home, God grant that this work may go on and that we may see to it that no m.issionary fails to receive a box this year. And just now is the time to begin to work at this so that the box may reach the missionary before the rigors of winter are upon him.

There are a number of states in the south where our denomination is too few in members and too weak in finances to make scarcely more than a beginning in the mission work that is actually demanded of them. These states are helped by the Home Mission Board. Among them are Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana and Texas. Ot course the states are urged to raise all they can for their own destitution and the Bonrd simply supplements these amounts.

Another division of the v^'ork of our Home Mission Board is generally known as that of the mountain region. This work is done in the mountains of Kentucky, Tennes- see, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolma and West

50

Virginia. The inhabitants of these districts have been for so long cut oflf from the rest of the world that it was found impossible to do any permanent work without first educa- ting them to a certain extent. For this purpose high schools have been organized among them and through this msans great good is being done.

Last, but by no means least, among the fields of our Home Mission labor comes Cuba. At a glance it may seem strange that this should be under the supervision of the Home Board, rather than the Foreign Board. This is due to the fart that this work was first begun in Key West, one of the Florida keys, by our Home Board. From here it gradually extended into the island of Cuba and thus the work in this island came under the fostering care of the Home Board. Since Cuba's freedom has been obtained our opportunities and responsibilities there have increased at an enormous rate. We, as Baptists, have greater opportunities there than any other denomination. Disgusted as they are with Catholicism which brought upon them all their woes, the priest-ridden people naturally seek the other extreme in religion ; and what can offer this so truly as the faith we as Baptists hold and proclaim. Are we seizing this oppor- tunity and filling up the time with such labor as is needed and the island with such workers as are needed there.

We have thus barely mentioned the different lines of work included under the term Home Missions and fostered by our Home Mission Board; the frontier, mountain region, work in weak states, among the negroes, in Cuba, and among the foreign population which is constantly being poured in upon our shores by the great number of immi- grants who come here each year. And here lies a great danger and a large field for labor. These immigrants bring with them some form of religion, the Catholic perhaps, and unless they are met in the proper way and the proper means used to convert them, we cannot long hope to hold our land for Christ, and be able to enjoy religious freedom.

Upon the success of Ho.ne Missions in a large measure depends the success of Foreign Missions. In point of time. Foreign Missions precede Home Missions, but our father saw that without the evangelization of our own country we could never hope for any lasting results in foreign lands. The strength of the denomination at home must be increased if more missionaries and larger supplies were to be sent to the foreign countries. Accordingly the work of Home Missions was begun and to the great success of this work is

31

largely due the success on foreign fields. The work of Home Missions is, therefore, not one which is narrow in its aim or contracted in its results. On the other hand, it affects the evangelization of humanity. If America be won for Christ it will greatly aid in solving the complicated pro- blem of the world's evangelization. Roman Catholicism is doing its utmost to seize and control America. Let us so rally to the support of our Home Board as to render all her efforts impossible of success. Let us see to it that each of us do our duty in this line during the coming year and we cannot but look for great results,

Mrs. J. I. Kendrick,

Furman, Ala.

FOREIGN MISSIONS.

•"Go ye therefore and teach all nations." Teachino- them to observe all things whatsoever 1 commanded you; and lo! I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Here Christ is talking to the woman and His dis- ciples, and he tells them, "I am with you always, even to the end of the world." What more can He promise them ; this should give us courage to go on with His work. I feel that Christ is speaking to each one of us. He calls us by name. We all have our duty put aside. How are we to know? Why ask Him in faith to show us plainly, then just as soon as we feel prompted to do a thing or say a word for Him then is the time. Nothing is more certain than the fact that we can so deaden ourselves to the voice of conscience that we fail even to hear its pleading in moments of deepest sin. On the other hand, by attending to its warning we are made aware of the very slightest whisper of our inward monitor.

Our societies are the means of sending the gospel to the heathen, and I do think that every christian woman should belong to them. I teel sure every church represented here has one, and am sorry to say a great many women in the church are not members in this good work. What does our Lord say ? ''Ask of me and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession." Now my sisters, don't you all feel that Christ wants you in this work ! Just think of the many, many souls dying without a Savior— no hope, it is sad to think of.

32

We say we can not go teach them, yet we are willing to help thein. But what can I dor we ask. God has given each of us a talent. He expects us to use it. Ask Him to help and guide you. Come and unite with this band of women in your society, help them, pray for the poor lost souls, contribute to the c?use, do it all for the Saviour. Miss Kelley and others are doing a great work, but they need our prayers and help. VV^e are to be judged some day for our work here on earth. How happy we will be when we meet our Saviour face to face and He tells us of some soul saved through our prayers. We can deny ourselves more for them and send the message to them. How thankful we all should be that America was not chosen tor the heathen land. God could have made it such, but see how merciful and good He was to us. I have talked to a great ninny, tried to show them where it was their duty to be a member of the missionary society ; somf* excuse was they could not get off to attend the meetings. It should be a pleosure for us to meet once a month and offer prayer for the poor lost heathen and for the ones that are out there trying to lead them to the Saviour.

We have our comfortable homes, everything we need, then think of the men and women that have gone to the different fields, the hardships they have to bear, yet they say "it is all right as long as I can bring a soul to Christ." They ask us for our help and prayers. O don't let us get cold and indifferent. Pray for these poor souls, deny our- selves more, do it all cheerfully and for the Saviour, who is doing for us all the time, not as though we had it to do, let it all be through love. We need more of Christ's spirit. What does He say to us? "Ye are the salt of the earth." But salt is good for nothing while it is barreled up in store houses or in church pews ; it is to be scattered and put upon the places of need that putrefaction might not take place. A little boy said in his composition that salt was stuff that made your dinner taste bad when you don't put it on We smile at that, but our church life is a sentiment that makes the community taste bad when we don't put it on. O, if we only worked for our Master as hard as Satan's flock works for him — the good we all may do. Now let each one of us resolve to do more for our Saviour. Pray more for the poor heathen, deny ourselves more to send them the gospel Did you ever think of it? God is using women to a large extent for the work of bringing the heathen into His kingdom. There are 40 missionaries in China, 25 of them

33

are women. Now my sisters, let us try to make this ye-ar the best of all for the advancement of the Master's kingdom. To do this let us earnestly pray to God in faith and all of us do the very best we can. May God hasten the coming of the day when all the nations of the earth shall love and serve Him.

Mrs. J. A. Mauldin,

MISSIONARY BOXES.

The so called missionary boxes are a part ot the work of the ladies in our churches, which is intended to aid in the work of missions on the frontier of our own country and may be called an important feature of that work.

Since the first settling ot the pilgrim fathers, our coun- try has had a frontier, and the history of the frontier life has been and is today an entrancing story to eacli successive generation. To those concerned about higher things the most thrilling part of this frontier history is that played by the frontier missionary and preacher. We hold in great honor today those devout men of the past who gave us what we have. And we must honor and help those earnest Godly men who have left the comforts of home and of civilization to brave the many dangers of the wild frontier to labor for the Master, and to make the future history of our country. On them must depend in large measure the moral and religious conditions of the country.

The missionary boxes, containing as they do, only such things as are useful to the family must be a considerable item to the hard worked, and too frequently, badly paid preacher and family. And we must not forget that these boxes are contributed in a large measure by those who could ill afford to give the value of the articles contributed in cash. That they are appreciated we can not doubt if we will take the trouble to read the many letters of thanks received and published in the different journals of our denomination.

In the sending of the boxes the Womans Missionary Union, are accomplishing a good work, and the results are far rjaching in many ways. A sister writing from the Indian Territory tells of an interesting event at a frontier Association. Being asked to tell the Convention how the work of the W. M. Union, was carried on, she explained that "we are auxiliary to the convention, carrying out the

34

recommendations of the boards, etc." And at the close she asked that those who had been enabled to come to the Convention, only through the help they had received from our sisters in the east to stand up About twenty men and every one that had their wives testified that they could not have come without the help. All were dressed in clothinjjj sent in boxes from the east Surely our Heavenly Father will bless such efforts, and make them an honor and glory to the dear women and His cause. If in our Frontier Asso- tion there were twenty families who were enabled to attend the Convention, how can we place a proper estimate on the amount of good accomplished all over the frontier of civili- zation in this broad land of ours.

As the country is settled and civilizatiun advances the field is made broader and more important, and the amount of good must depend upon the manner in which we improve our opportunities.

What more earnest appeal netd be made to the true disciple ot Christ for an increase in the number of boxes sent than to point them to the evidences of grateful hearts given in the letters of thanks received.

To feel that one has given substantial aid to one of God's chosen laborers and helped him on his way to the winning of souls for the Master is an incentive to the Chris- tian not to be neglected, and is a sweet reward to the donor.

Believing tliat the blessing of a Heavenly Father is with us in our efforts to aid in His cause, we should try to do more in the future than in the past, and not forget the sending of our missionary box in its season.

Mus. J. E. McMuLi.EN.

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