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AUBAMA BAf>™ HJSTORfCAl SOCIE1T
M/NUTES
SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
Birmingham Baptist Association
HELD WITH
RUHAMA BAPTIST CHURCH,
EAST LAKE, ALA.,
SEPT. 29, 30 AND OCT. I, 1896.
The next Se^ssicya of the Association will be held with the
Irondale^Baptist Church, commencing on Tuesday
before the Second Sunday in September,
1897, at 10 o'clock, a. m.
BIRMINGHAM, ALA.:
DISPATCH STATIONERY CO., PRINTERS AND BINDERS
1896.
Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2011 with funding from
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http://www.archive.org/details/minutesofsixtythOObirm
. ■-
REV ANDREW JACKSON WALDROP.
Born February 7, 1815; Died September 13, 1896.
MINUTES
SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
Birmingham Baptist Association
HELD WITH
RUHAMA BAPTIST CHURCH,
EAST LAKE, ALA.,
SEPT. 29, 30 AND OCT. I, 1896.
The next Session of the Association will be held with the
Irondale Baptist Church, commencing on Tuesday
before the Second Sunday in September,
1897, at 10 o'clock, a. m.
BIRMINGHAM, ALA.:
DISPATCH STATIONERY CO., PRINTERS AND BINDERS 1896.
OFFICERS.
Prof. R. J. WALDROP, Moderator East Lake, Ala.
M. M. WOOD, Clerk and Treasurer Pratt City, Ala.
S. P. FOWLKES, Corresponding Secretary Birmingham, Ala.
STANDING COMMITTEES.
STATE MISSIONS.
J. B. Gibson, D. N. Smith and R. S. McDaniel.
HOME MISSIONS.
W. A. Hobson, D. H. Vann and C. C. Jones.
FOREIGN MISSIONS.
J. M. McCord, H. A. Hagler and O. J. Waldrop.
RELIGIOUS LITERATURE AND COLPORTAGE WORK.
W. R. Ivey, T. P. Waller and J. H. Hagood.
DENOMINATIONAL EDUCATION.
H. H. Brown, R. M. Inzer and J. W. O'Hara.
MINISTERIAL EDUCATION.
J. P. Stiles, W. S. Eubank and J. M. Huey.
SABBATH SCHOOLS.
P. C. Ratliff, J. S. Wood and W. R. Hilliard.
YOUNG PEOPLE'S WORK.
E. P. Hogan, J. D. Heacock and H. E. Dalby.
TEMPERANCE.
R. M. Hunter, Pat. Felton, Jr., and R. H. Hendon.
ORPHAN'S HOME.
S. J. Ansley, S. P. Fowlkes and J. E. Massey.
CHURCH IMPROVEMENT.
W. Y. Browning, W. C. Bryant and Milo Kimball.
SPIRITUAL CONDITION OF THE CHURCHES.
J. H. Longcrier, J. K. Pemberton and T. Robertson.
ORDAINED MINISTERS.
Ansley, S. J East Lake
Asiicraft. William East Lake
Barksbale, E. J Blossburg
Blackweiber, W. M Woodlawn
Braniiam, M. T Mt. Pinson
Browning, W. Y East Lake
Carter, W. B East Lake
Churchwell, J. J Argo
Champion, J. L Dolomite
Cooper, B. F Irondale
Compton, H. C Springville
Craig, L. P Bessemer
Dorman, I. W Gurley's Creek
Faggarb, K. D Avondale
Folks, J. D Trussville
Franklin, D. B Sandusky
Giles, B. F East Lake
Gray, B. D Birmingham
Hagler, J. H Warrior
Hale, P. T Birmingham
Henberson, Sterling North Birmingham
Hobson, W. A East Lake
Hogan, James Birmingham
Huey, J. M East Lake
Ivey, W. B Bessemer
Jernigan, J. S Green's
Jorban, J. D Birmingham
Kent, J. M Birmingham
Lee, W. J Adville
Lee, G. T East Lake
Lloyb, J. B Birmingham
McCorb, J. M East Lake
McGaha, A. W East Lake
Montgomery, P. S Springville
Nalls, J. P Birmingham
Newman, W. B Compton
■O'Hara, J. W East Lake
Pool, J. H East Lake
Bobgers, W. T Green Pond
•Sanforb, T. S Birmingham
Stamps, M East Lake
Thames, A. J East Lake
Tibwell, J. B: East Lake
W albrop, O. J Bessemer
Walbrop. B. M Huffman
Walls, F. C Mt. Pinson
Wkatherly, J. H East Lake
Wells, J. B East Lake
Whittle, W. A East Lake
Williams, N. B Birmingham
Woob, M. M Pratt City
"Wyatt, G. S Ayers
ORDER OF BUSINESS.
1. Heading of Church Letters.
2. Enrollment of Delegates.
3. Election of Officers.
4. Keceiving Churches Applying for Admission.
5. Appoint Special Committees.
6. Eeceive Correspondence.
7. Return Correspondence.
8. Miscellaneous Business.
9. Eeport on Foreign Missions.
10. Eeport on Home Missions.
11. Report on State Missions.
12. Report on Religious Literature and Col portage Work,
13. Report on Education.
14. Miscellaneous Business.
15. Report on Sabbath Schools.
16. Report on Young People's Work.
17. Report on Temperance.
18. Report on Orphan's Home.
19. Report on Church Improvements.
20. Report on Nominations.
21. Report of Treasurer.
22. Report of Finance Committee.
23. Appoint Standing Committees.
24. Report of Committee on Spiritual Condition of Churches.
25. Report of Executive Commit.ee.
26. Miscellaneous Business.
27. Adjournment.
PROCEEDINGS.
East Lake, Ala., Sept. 29, 1896.
The Birmingham Baptist Association met this day in its sixty-third annual session, in the meeting-house of the Ru- hama Church, at 10 a. m., and in the absence of the former Moderator, Rev. A. J. Waldrop, who departed this life Sep- tember 13, 1896, was called to order by Brother A. B. John- ston, Chairman of the Executive Committee.
After devotional exercises, Brother S. P. Fowlkes was •elected Temporary Clerk, in the absence of the former Clerk, who was detained by a funeral.
The letters were then called for and read by brethren W. R. Ivey and P. T. Hale, and the names of delegates enrolled as follows, viz: »
Adger — Not represented.
Avondale— Rev. R. M. Hunter, Rev. R. D. Faggard, J. T. Beard.
Bellview— M. R. Russell, J. K. Pemberton, Jacob Kim- tall and Milo Kimball.
Bessemer— W. R. Ivey, J. W. O'Hara, H. P. Lipscomb, T. P. Waller, A. A. Harris.
Bethany — Not represented.
Birmingham, First— B. D. Gray, N. B. Williams, A. B. Johnston, C. F. Wheelock, T. A. Bell, T. P. Bradford, R. S. Warner, Jno. McKenzie, Everett Shepherd, P. C. Ratliff, L. P. Fleming.
Birmingham, Southside— Jas. Hogan, Rev. J. R. Lloyd, S. P. Fowlkes, Rev. P. T. Hale, W. M. Malone, B. J. Caffey, E. P. Hogan, M. C. Reynolds, J. P. Stiles, J. A. Walker.
THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
Brookside — T. S. Tenny, L. B. Evans.
Blossburg — Rev. E. J. Barksdale, Arthur Brown, Alfred Winters.
Birmingham, Second Church — Rev. J. B. Tidwell, Ster- ling Henderson, A. N. Hawkins, J. A. Hunter.
Canaan — W. T. Crotwell, J. A. Walls, Beney Ezell, L. E. Cooly.
Concord — A. W. Bond, James Lee, Frank Letcher.
Dolomite — S. G. Robinson, Cephas Vines, J. J. Walker.
Elyton— O. Wendt, M. R. Rockett, M. P. Lewis.
Green Springs — G. A. Robertson, F. Holden, M. M. Warren.
Irondale — A. J. Herring, W. J. Cardwell, C. M. Dixon..
Johns — Not represented.
Mary Lee — Not represented.
Mount Olive — B. T. Darden.
New Prospect— E. P. Wood, W. O. M. Franklin, J. F. McClinton, G. W. Chiles.
Oak Grove— C. M. Rogers, T. E. Stubbs, J. B. Mc- Combs.
Pratt City— Rev. M. M. Wood, J. H. Eubank, J. W. Minor, Pat. Felton, W. S. Eubank, Albert Webb, C. S. Lecren.
Pleasant Ridge — B. B. Waldrop, T. Robertson.
Rocky Ridge — J. D. Folks, J. H. Roper.
Ruhama — H. B. Kimbrough, Rev. B. F. Giles, H. H. Brown, A. D. Smith, R. J. Waldrop, Rev. W. A. Hobson, N. A. Barrett, Rev. Mac Stamps, Rev. Jno. D. Jordan, Rev. G. T. Lee.
Salem — Rev. M. T. Branham, J. H. Hagood, W. Frank- lin, J. E. Massey.
Springdale — Rev. J. S. Jernigan, L. A. Connell, W. H. Carlisle.
Springville — Rev. P. S. Montgomery, R. M. Pierce, S. A. McClendon.
Trussville— M. K. Vann, S. R. McDaniel, D. H. Vann.
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.
Union — T. L. Johnson, Theodore Ryne, R. T. Jones. Warrior— D. N. Smith, H. A. Hagler, Peter Twist. Williamsburg — Not represented.
Woodlawn— J. B. Helm, Rev. J. Sid Wood, J. B. Gib- son, D. H. Montgomery, Dr. D. D. Jones.
The election of officers was next declared in order. Prof. R. J. Waldrop was elected Moderator, M. M. Wood, Clerk and Treasurer, and S. P. Fowlkes, Corresponding Secretary.
McElwain and Pine Grove Churches, organized since last Association, presented letters for admission into the Associa- tion. A committee consisting of Brethren James Hogan, L. P. Fleming and M. P. Lewis was appointed to examine and report on these applications. The report being favorable they were received and messengers enrolled as follows:
McElwain — Thomas Graham, William Byers, W. E. Mitchell.
Pine Grove — Isaac Perry, Jas. P. Richey.
Representatives were then received as follows, viz :
Rev. W. C. Bledsoe, D. D., and Rev. A. E. Burns from the State Board of Missions.
Rev. A. R. Hardy from the church at Greensboro, Ala.
Rev. John D. Jordan, Corresponding Secretary of the Baptist Young People's Union of the South.
Rev. J. R. Lloyd, Agent of the Alabama Baptist.
Salem Association — Rev. J. P. Nails.
Tuscaloosa Association — Rev. John T. Bealle.
Rev. B. D. Gray, Vice-President of the Home Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.
Rev. W. R. Ivey for the Sunday School Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.
On motion, the hour of 7:30 p. m., was set for preaching the Introductory Sermon.
THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL, SESSION
The hours for meeting and adjournment were fixed as fol- lows, viz: Meet at 9 a. m., adjourn at 12:30 p. m.; meet at 2:30 p. m., adjourn at 5 p. m.; meet at 7:30 p. m. and adjourn at will.
Special Committees were announced as follows, viz: On Nominations — P. T. Hale, H. A. Hagler, J. B. Gibson. On Finance—]. P. Stiles, P. C. Ratliff, M. P. Lewis. On Devotional Exercises — Pastor and Deacons of Ruhama Church.
On motion, 9:30 a. m., Wednesday, was set apart for the report on State, Home and Foreign Missions.
The report on Religious Literature and Colportage Work was called for. The report not being ready the item was passed and the report on Education was called for. The report not being at hand the item of Miscellaneous Business was called.
The special committee appointed at the last session on "Constitution and By-Laws" reported ready, and the report was read by Brother A. B. Johnston, as follows, viz: See page 33-
The report was discussed by A. B. Johnston and unani- mously adopted, and ordered printed in the minutes.
The Committees on Education reported ready. The reports were called for and read as follows, viz :
REPORT ON DENOMINATIONAL EDUCATION.
Denominational Education is one of the constituent parts that form the foundation upon which all the interests fostered by the denomination are supported. If this foundation be laid broad and deep, State Missions, For- eign Missions, Home Missions and the Sunday School will have the mainten- ance which the lovers of these causes have so earnestly desired, and for which they have so fervently prayed. Again, it is in the denominational school alone that the hightst standard of morals can be erected, for in no other school can Christ be held up as an example and His word be taught as a guide.
Those who attend this school are not only prepared to attend to their
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.
own business affairs but they are also taught both by example and precept the Christ-like Spirit of being helpful to others.
Now for our sons we have our own beloved Howard, inferior to no other educational institution in the State. To prove this we have only to refer you to her sons that have gone forth into the world, hence it has not only the right to ask but good reason to expect the patronage and support of the Bap- tists of Alabama. For our daughters we have the Judson, an institution known all over this Southland for its faithful work and christian culture. The modesty, the refinement and the christian conduct of her daughters are sufficient inducements to draw the patronage of any Baptist who desires the best educational advantages for his daughter.
Now, these two Schools which have done such noble work in the past in preparing men and women to be influential and helpful in home, church and state, still stand as bulwarks for those who are committed to them, against the encroachments of the materialistic and secularizing tendencies of the times. Indeed, we may say the denominational schools have been in no small degree the conservators of morals and religion in our state institutions. The public sentiment that has been created in a large measure by the denominational school demands at least that the skeptic Professor shall keep to himself his peculiar views.
The tendency of denominational schools now is to be less sectarian and more christian.
The great purpose now is to keep the intellectual and moral development abreast with each other. In order to be able to teach the highest standard of morals the Judson and the Howard use the Bible as a text book.
Now, if these statements be true, it behooves every Baptist who loves the Master's cause and desires the spiead of his kingdom, to support, patronize and work for the Howard and the Judson.
Although the Judson has sustained a great loss in the death of Dr. Averett, yet we are glad that the Trustees have been able to secure Rev. R. G. Patric to take charge of the Judson.
B. F. Giles, T. J. Dill, A. D. Smith.
REPORT ON MINISTERIAL EDUCATION.
It is an admitted fact that Education is an important factor to the suc- cess of one in any of the vocations in life. Education means freedom — free- dom from ignorance. Christ said: "Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." This seems to be a universal law. We are free only to the extent of our knowledge of truth. Is not our knowledge of truth an exact measure of our freedom ? Never before has the imperative demand for universal education of the soundest and highest order been so manifest. The ruling spirit of the age seems to be freedom. Men of all classes are chafing
10 THE SIXTY- THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
under their present restraints, and endeavoring to cast them off. The ten- dency of the times is disorganizing. The conditions under which we live are fraught with great peril. There is an individualism in this age that tends to intensify the sense of responsibility. Serious and thoughtful minds are ask- ing the question, what can save us from anarchy — from social and political ruin? The answer, the only answer, is "knowledge and virtue."
The widest and most far reaching opportunities are thus offered our leaders, our christian educators, our ministers. The ministers are the formu- lators of character in a very large degree. They "set the gait" of a large proportion of their congregations — especially the young. " It matters not what may be our calling in life, he needs the equipment which will effectually multiply his sources of strength ; the fields from which to draw for mind and heart inspiration ; he needs the views and impulses, the spiritual uplift and enlargement which spring from fellowship with other thinkers, the familiarity with every phase of true, pure, lofty thought and emotion." The christian minister is no exception to this rule.
" The Master went about doing good." He gave sight to the blind, speech to the dumb, hearing to the deaf, and feet to the lame and halt. The chris- tian minister is performing like deeds in none the less real and none the less important sphere of heart and soul.
The Lord Jesus came to bless and save, and elevate humanity at every point; to bring deliverance as deep and as wide as human need. He came that men might have life — full, rich, abundant life. He came to lift up the moral, the physical, the intellectual man. He came to save, for time as well as for eternity. He came that men might have happier homes, broader minds, truer intuitions, clearer views, sounder judgments, purer souls, more lofty longings and fellowships and aspirations. He came to save completely and gloriously this wondrous, complex being — man.
Should not his ministers, who are to do his bidding, who are to stand as his representatives, be the most completely rounded of all men ? Let us con- tribute liberally to this part of our denominational work, a work that touches us more clearly than possibly any other.
Howard College had within her walls during the year '95 and '96 thirty- three ministerial students. Already, thus early in the session of '96 and '97, we have registered twenty -six matriculants.
The Seminary at Louisville is calling for more men from Alabama.
Your Committee reports that for the Associational year '94-' 95, that we the Baptists of the Birmingham Association, numbering in our membership 3,903 members, contributed, according to the financial report made at our last sitting, the sum of $392.42, or about ten cents per capita. It seems to us that we are just " playing" at Ministerial Education.
"By their fruits shall ye know them."
Respectfully submitted,
J. R. Lloyd, R. J. Waldrop,
" Committee.
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. II
The reports were discussed by brethren P. T. Hale, H. H. Brown, W. C. Bledsoe, Secretary State Board of Mis- sions, B. D. Gray and W. A. Hobson, and adopted.
The Committee on Devotional Exercises reported as fol- lows, viz :
"That Rev. M. M. Wood preach the Introductory Ser- mon at 7:30 to-night, after which memorial services be held in memory of our departed brother, A. J. Waldrop, and his son, Rev. E. B. Waldrop. That Dr. B.. D. Gray preside over the meeting. And that the Missionary Sermon be preached Wednesday at 11:30 a. m., by Rev. W. R. Ivey.""
The report was adopted.
The hour having arrived, the Association adjourned to 7:30 P. M.
FIRST DAY— Night Session.
The Introductory Sermon was preached at 7:30 p. m., by Rev. M. M. Wood, from Heb. 11:5. A* the close of the sermon the memorial exercises were held according to appointment, Brother B. D. Gray in the chair. After read- ing 1 Samuel 12:1-5, anc^ appropriate comments by Brother Gray, memorial addresses were made by brethren P. T. Hale, G. T. Lee, James Hogan, P. S. Montgomery and W. A. Hobson, and the Association adjourned to 9 o'clock, a. m., Wednesday.
SECOND DAY— Morning Session.
The Association was called to order by the Moderator^ and devotional exercises were conducted by Rev. A. E. Burns, of Huntsville, Ala.
A committee from the Mineral Springs Association was- received, and reported through Brother R. C. Greathouse,. that their Association desired help from the Birmingham
12 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
Association in the prosecution of their mission work. On motion the application was referred to the Executive Com- mittee.
On motion of Rev. W. A. Hobson, a Committee was appointed to prepare suitable memorial of Rev. A. J. Wal- drop, and his son, Rev. E. B. Waldrop. The Moderator appointed W. A. Hobson, B. D. Gray, G. T. Lee and M. M. Wood. See report on page 29.
The hour having arrived for the consideration of Missions, the reports were called for and read as follows, viz :
REPORT ON FOREIGN MISSIONS.
God has richly blessed the work of our churches through their Foreign Mission Board. During the past year 735 believing converts have been bap- tized on the foreign fields.
The amount contributed by the churches of our Southern Baptist Con- vention during the last conventional year was $101,165.00. Of this amount Alabama Baptists gave $6,261.00. On our foreign fields, $5,553.00 was con- tributed by our workers.
In our churches in foreign lands are now 4,295 members. Our Board is doing a vigorous work in Africa, China, Japan, Mexico, Brazil and Italy.
The Board is deeply in debt and to prevent the work suffering we ought to enlarge our offerings. Tf we are Missionary Baptists in reality as well as in name, let us heed the command of our absent Lord : " Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."
We earnestly recommend the " Foreign Mission Journal."
P. T. Hale, Chairman.
REPORT ON HOME MISSIONS.
The work of the Home Mission Board under the divine blessing has a;rown into proportions gratifying to our people, and promising the happiest results in the future.
During the last five years the number of missionaries in its employ has averaged about 400. The results of their labors have been most inspiring, In that time they have baptized more than 20,000 believers, constituted more than a thousand churches, organized twice that number of Sunday schools, and erected more than 500 houses of worship on their fields of labor. Of this work the distinguished historian who delivered the semi-centennial address in Washington in 1895 said, that it was "the joy and marvel of our recent history."
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 13
This year the work of the Board under the trying conditions of the country, is going forward with most gratiying success.
Our work iu Cuba, though suffering a temporary depression in conse- quence of the enforced absence of the pastors, is being carried on by godly women and the brethren who are suffered to remain in Havana. Transferred to this country these banished pastors are doing good work in their respective fields. Especially in Key West, brethren O'Halloran and Calejo are meeting with gratifying success.
So everywhere from all our fields and from every department of our work come the glad tidings of the divine blessing attending the words of our brethren and making them God's power unto salvation.
In its work the Board needs the constant sympathy and support of the churches. To these it owes its past success, and without them there would be no hope for the future.
There is danger that in these times when so many weighty questions are pressing themselves upon public attention, that there may be forgetfulness of our mission work. The cry of hard times which has filled the land may lead some to withhold their needed aid. Let our brethren remember that what- ever betides our country or ourselves the Lord's work must go forward.
Contributions have not been sufficient to enable the Board to pay the salaries of our missionaries, and they need the meager sums they have been promised to procure the necessities of life. In portions of the Indian Terri- tory and Oklahoma where crops have failed, brethren write that our mission- aries must suffer unless we can help them more this year than we have done in the past.
We take pleasure in calling the attention of the Association to the in- valuable work done by the Woman's Missionary Union.
The amount raised by the Union during the last conventional year, was $33,542.64 an increase of five-fold in eight years. Had our churches exhibited a similar increase, the Board would not be cramped for funds to supply less than half of our widespread destitution.
SUMMARY.
Summary of work for the past conventional year as follows:
Missionaries 411
Weeks of labor 12,329
Churches and stations 1,626
Sermons and addresses 58,041
Prayer meetings 9,622
Baptisms 5,617
Received by letter 6,672
Total additions 13,295
Sunday schools organized 372
Teachers and pupils 12.635
Religious visits 61 ,498
14 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
Churches constituted 207
Houses of worship built 92
Houses of worship improved 146
Amount expended on houses of worship $ 86,209
Bibles and testaments distributed 2,595
Tracts distributed, pages 726,675
The State Board of Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Indian Territory, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Western Arkansas, Indian Terri- tory, and Western North Carolina are in co-operation with us in a part or the whole of their work.
REPORT ON STATE MISSIONS.
Your Committee on State Missions submit the following for your consid- eration :
Since the meeting of your Association of last year, we have the report of the State Mission Board made to State Convention at Selma, in November, last year. In the report we find much that is encouraging, as well as some things which should cause us to reflect seriously, and give ourselves with renewed energy to this branch of our denominational work. It is a fact well known to all familiar with our Missionary efforts, that one great hindrance to the successful prosecution of the work, is the lack of funds. The field is here, needing the workers, the workers are here ready to give themselves to the work. But the money necessary to carry it on, as it should be, has been wholly inadequate. We find, however, by the last report of the State Mission Board, that there was last year an increase in the amount contributed for this branch of our work. Also, the work of our evangelists is spoken of and com- mended in a manner that cannot fail to please all true lovers of our Master's cause. These with other features of the report should encourage us, and is cause for thankfulness on our part. The painful statement, that a large majority of our denominatfon are anti-missionary in practice, is one that should cause us to reflect and ask, why ?
We have a great work in our State, the successful accomplishment of which depends upon our united efforts. Not of the few who have borne the burden thus far, but upon the efforts of the whole denomination.
When the day shall come (as it will), that our people shall become Mis- sionary in practice, as in profession, this part of our work will make vigorous strides forward, and we shall fulfill more nearly the measure of our respon- sibility.
Your Committee feel they cannot commend too earnestly to your prayer- ful consideration and substantial support the work undertaken by our State Board among the colored people.
The plan of work is one which must commend itself to any one at all familiar with the situation, and the necessity for the most vigorous efforts,
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 15
along the line indicated or some other line, which experience may suggest, are too apparent to need even mention in this report. We believe our social, political, material and spiritual interests have and are suffering because of our neglect of this work in the past. The Birmingham Association, being the first in the State, has grave responsibilities restit g upon it.
The words of our former State Secretary come to us with peculiar force, when in his last report, he gives it as his very decided opinion, that the Mis- sionary work should be carried on at and from the centers of population. We cannot with justice, fail to notice the help given our State work by .the stu- dents of Howard College, and feel that any assistance given them by our State Board is more than repaid by the work which they are doing in and near our Association.
C. F. Wheelock, Acting Chairman.
The reports were discussed by brethren Jas. Hogan, B. D. Gray and W. C. Bledsoe.
Brother A. R. Hardy addressed the Association and asked the churches for four hundred dollars for the house of worship at Greensboro. On motion the request was com- mended to the favorable consideration of the Executive Com- mittee.
The hour of 11:30 having arrived, Rev. W. R. Ivey preached the Missionary Sermon, at the close of which a col- lection was taken for State Missions, amounting in cash and pledges, to $159. 16.
On motion, the hour of 7:30 p. m. to-day was set apart for the consideration of the Young People's Work.
The hour for adjournment having arrived the Association adjourned.
SECOND DAY— Afternoon Session.
The Association was called to order promptly at the hour by the Moderator. The Minutes were read and corrected.
By general consent the Committee on Nominations, through its Chairman, Dr. P. T. Hale, made a partial report, as follows, viz ;
THE SIXTY-THIHD ANNUAL SESSION
To preach Introductory Sermon, Eev. John D. Jordan ; Alternate, Eev. W. A. Hobson.
To preach the Missionary Sermon, Eev. G. T. Lee ; Alternate, Kev. E. M. Hunter.
Delegate to Southern Baptist Convention, W. S. Eubank; Alternate, Pat. Felton, Jr.
Executive Committee : A. B. Johnston, Chairman ; W. A. Hobson, Jas. Hogan, W. E. Ivey, J. B. Gibson, H. H. Brown, J. W. Minor and E. M. Hunter.
On motion, Dr. P. T. Hale's name was added to the. Committee, and the report was adopted.
The reports on Missions being still before the Association, were further discussed by brethren P. T. Hale, A. B. John- ston and M. M. Wood, and adopted.
The report on Religious Literature and Colportage Work was called for and read by the Chairman, Rev. N. B. Wil- liams, as follows, viz ;
EEPOET ON EELIGIOUS LITEEATUEE AND COLPOETAGE WOEK.
The time is not yet when we can dispense with the work of the Colporteur. It is a source of gratification that something is being done in our State through this channel. Your Committee regrets that statistics are not at hand for a full exhibit of this work done by Alabama Baptists the past year.
The summary of work for the year ending November 1, 1895, is as fol- lows:
Colporteurs 42
(Of these 14 were Missionary Colporteurs.)
Days service 6,200
Miles traveled 41,340
Sermons delivered 3,088
Addresses made 1,715
Churches constituted 6
Number baptized 495
Baptized by others 547
Eeceived by letter 435
Eestored 57
Sunday schools organized 47
Ladies' Missionary Societies organized 11
Prayer meetings organized 141
Prayer meetings held 720
OP THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 17
Number of visits to preaching stations 383
Numberof churches visited 767
Number of visits made 8,685
Subscribers to the Alabama Baptist secured 310
Subscribers to the Foreign Mission Journal 134
Subscribers to the Home Field 2
Pages of Tracts distributed 30,166
Meeting houses commenced or finished 19
Money collected for meeting houses $ 494.95
Money collected for all missions 1,996.88
Money collected for Ministerial Education , 109.80
Money collected for Bible and Colportage 42.40
Money collected for Church Building 6.90
Number of books sold 928
Value of same $ 561.42
Bibles and Testaments sold 1,000
Value of same $ 785.97
It is in no perfunctory spirit your Committee would commend the Ala- bama Baptist to the favorable consideration and liberal patronage of this body. The terms under which the paper was given over to the hands of Bro- ther J. G. Harris, its proprietor, at the last session of the State Convention,, and the spirit of Co-operative Christian enterprise he has since shown in the purchase of a new printer's outfit, along with its manifest improvement as a readable journal, all together urge us to awakened attention to this source of Denominational Power. Yet to become a greater Power as it is rightly used.
The new venture, the "State Mission Journal," is expected to foster what its name imports and is before our people for support.
The Foreign Mission Journal is an absolute necessity to a wide awake missionary spirit in our Southern Baptist Zion. It is published at Richmond, Va. Price, 35c. for single copies and 25c. for ten copies and more.
The Birmingham Baptist, of which Pastor Hale is Editor, deals in mat- ters of local associational interest, of which brethren wish to be informed.
Your Committee commends the " Young People's Leader," the organ of the Young People's Union Auxiliary to the S. B. Convention, to be published at Birmingham, Ala.
Bespectfuyy submitted,
N. B. Williams, Chairman.
The report was discussed by W. A. Hobson and others, and adopted.
SECOND DAY— Night Session.
The Association reassembled at the hour appointed and
18 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNITAL SESSION
was called to order by the Moderator. After singing and prayer, the report on Young People's Work was called for and read by the Clerk, and is as follows, viz :
KEPOKT ON YOUNG PEOPLE'S WOEK.
Your Committee would report no addition to the number of Unions within our bounds since last report to your body. The Unions as reported at your last meeting — thirteen in number — are all in a flourishing condition, and some of them doing active and lasting work.
We note with pleasure the coming among us of our Brother, John D. Jordan, General Secretary of our Southern Young People's organization, and the establishment of the headquarters of the organization at Birmingham.
We are, if possible, more firmly convinced than ever of the grand possi- bility contained in our Young People's movement. While there has been no systematic effort made for its extension, we trust there soon will be, and we can be able to report a large increase in the number of Unions, and to the membership of those already organized.
C. F. Wheelock, Chairman.
The report was amended, and addresses on the subject were made by W. C. Bledsoe, H. H. Brown, W. A. Hobson, John D. Jordan, Corresponding Secretary, A. W. McGaha and B. D. Gray, and adopted.
On motion of W. A. Hobson, a committee was appointed consisting of W. A. Hobson, G. T. Lee and A. W. McGaha, to prepare resolutions commending the Young People's Work to the Churches, and report Thursday. (This report was overlooked. — Clerk.)
The Association adjourned with prayer by A. W. Mc- Gaha.
THIRD DAY— Morning Session.
The Association reassembled at 9 a. m., and was called to order by the Moderator, and Rev. P. S. Montgomery con- ducted devotional exercises.
By general consent the Moderator added the names of brethren James Hogan and R. M. Hunter to the Committee on Nominations.
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 19
The report on Sunday Schools not being present, the report on Temperance was called for and read by the Clerk, as follows, viz : ,
REPORT ON TEMPERANCE.
Whilst temperance means self-control in all things, and should be observed by every one, it has been given a specific meaning on account of the intemperate use of ardent spirits. So that when we speak of Temperance at present, we mean opposition to the sale and use of intoxicating liquors as a beverage. We maintain that the liquor business is the most widespread and destructive curse that now afflicts our country. It engenders poverty, breeds vice, instigates murder, and is responsible, directly or indirectly, according to reliable authority, for nine-tenths of the crimes of the land.
We therefore urge total abstinence on the part of all our people as the proper attitude towards this terrible evil of strong drink. Herein lies per- sonal safety, the safeguards of a worthy example to others, and the first step towards the complete overthrow of the rum traffic.
We urge in the next place that our churches maintain a wholesome dis- cipline over their members regarding the pernicious habit of dram-drinking.
Finally, we recommend that our people everywhere use all wise and legitimate means for the suppression of the liquor business. Respectfully submitted,
B. D. Gray, Chairman.
The report was discussed by brethren M. M. Wood, G. T. Lee, A. B. Johnston and P. S. Montgomery, and adopted.
On motion, speeches were limited to ten minutes.
The report on Orphan's Home was called for and read by Brother H. H. Brown, and is as follows, viz:
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON ORPHAN'S HOME.
In presenting this report the Committe think it cannot do better than to insert a circular recently issued by Bro. Jno. W. Stewart, Financial Secretary of the Institution.
It is as follows :
"the baptist orphanage
Was permanently located at Evergreen two years ago last November, and the property purchased at a cost of five thousand dollars. The debt has all been paid, and this valuable property is now free from encumbrance. It
20 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
consists of eighty acres of land lying on Main street, of which thirty acres are in farm, thirty in woods and twenty in pasture. All has been enclosed with substantial woven wire fence, and a commodious barn has been arranged.
In this Home has been received 27 boys and' 31 girls; and out of it have gone, by adoption 13 boys and 13 girls ; by apprenticeship 2 boys. We do- not apprentice girls, and only apprentice boys in exceptional cases.
The children attend the Agricultural School and most of them are doing well. They all attend Sunday School and Church, and are under firm, steady loving control in the Orphanage, 8 of them have been baptized.
We have more applications to take children than we can approve for want of room. We are in pressing need of a cook room, a laundry room, a. dining room, and since the terrible scourge of measels through which we have just passed, we find that we greatly need a sick room.
Now that the Associations are soon to meet, will not the friends of the- institution provide the means for the addition of these much needed appliances ?
While we are doing this, let us also provide four more dormitories so that we can care for at least sixty children.
Brethren, shall we undertake to make these much needed additions, re- lying on you to help us nobly in this as you did in paying for the property ? "
From the above it will be seen that our Home for indignent orphans has been, under all the circumstances surrounding it, phenominally successful. But it appears also that there is a pressing need for additional accomodations- in the Institution, and as we are making our offerings to the Lord this im- portant branch of our denominational work should not be overlooked.
The earnest and devoted work of Bro. John W. Stewart in connection with the orphanage is worthy of special note, and we sincerely trust that the Baptists of Alabama will promptly respond to his appeals for assistance as the needs of the Home may demand.
H. H. Brown, Chairman.
The report was discussed by Brother H. H. Brown, and adopted.
The following resolution, submitted by Brother H. H. Brown, and after discussion by brethren Brown, Lloyd, Johnston and others, was adopted, viz :
Resolved, That for the better promotion of the business and objects of this Association in its future meetings, the Executive Committee be insiructed to prepare a program of the regular business to be transacted, naming two brethren to lead in the discnsuon of each question to be considered. The said Executive Committee is further instructed to print said programs and furnish a copy to each of the brethren appointed to lead in discissions a reasonable time before the meeting.
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 21
The report on The Spiritual Condition of the Churches was called for and read by W. R. Ivey, as follows, viz :
SPIRITUAL CONDITION OF THE CHURCHES.
Your Committee beg leave to submit the following report : From the information furnished by the letters and so far as we can ascer- tain fiom the brethren, most of our Churches have had successful revivals during the past year, and many souls have been born into the kingdom. We are sorry, however, to learn that many of our Churches have no Prayer Meet- ing nor Sabbath School. We also deplore the fact that so many of our Churches have done so little for the cause of Christ, for which purpose th -churches were organized.
W. R. Ivey, Chairman A. N. Hawkins,
The report was adopted.
The report on Church Improvement not being ready, brethren A. B. Johnston and R. M. Hunter were added to the Committee, and the item was passed for the present.
Rev. W. A. Hobson offered the following resolution, •which was unanimously adopted, viz :
In view of the fact that our Association has a long and interesting histo- ry, which, if preserved, would be a valuable contribution to the Baptist his- tory of Alabama and a joy to the Churches of our Association —
Resolved, That this body appoint a Historian, whose duty it shall be to collect and preserve such historical matter as may be found worthy of preser- vation, with the view of publishing the same as early as practicable.
Rev. W. A. Hobson was unanimously elected Historian, and the co-operation of all interested in the history of the Association is solicited.
The Treasurer submitted his report as follows, viz :
TREASURER'S REPORT. Dr.
'To Cash from former Treasurer $ 2 2S
'To Cash from Finance Committee for Minutes 59 83
Total $62 11
22 the sixty-third annual session
Ck.
By Cash for Printing Minutes $46 25
By Cash for Postage 1 15
By Cash to Clerk 12 43
By Cash on hand 2 28
Total $62 11
Kespectfully submitted,
M. M. Wood, Treasurer.
The report was received.
The Finance Committee submitted its report as follows,, viz :
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
East Lake, Ala., Sept. 30, 1896. Your Committee on Finance beg to report that we have received :
For Orphan's Home $ 40
For State Missions 24 53
For Home Missions . 34 71
For Foreign Missions 30 56
For College Buildings 14 00
For Minutes 46 8S
Total $151 03
We have hereto attached an itemized statement of the different amounts contributed by each Church and for what purposes, which we make as an exhibit to this report. All of the above amounts have been turned over to the Treasurer and his receipt attached as a part of this report. Respectfully submitted,
J. P Stiles, Chairman of Committee.
Received of J. P. Stiles, Chairman of the Finance Committee, the sum of one hundred and fifty-one and three one-hundreths ($151.03) dollars, in full of all amounts received by him as such Chairman.
This October 1, 1896.
M. M. Wood, Treasurer.
The final report of the Committee on Nominations was read by H. A. Hagler, and after amendment was adopted as follows, viz :
REPORT ON NOMINATIONS.
Place of Meeting : Irondale.
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 23
Time : 10 o'clock A. M., Tuesday before the Second Sunday in Septem- ber, 1897.
Delegates to State Convention : Hon. H. IT. Brown, Capt. A. B. Johnston, J. B. Gibson, Hon. W. C. Ward, T. P. Waller, Rev. M. T. Branham and Rev. J. R. Lloyd. Alternates : Milo Kimball, J. T. Crotwell, R. C. Pressley, W. L. C. Vann and J. W. Minor.
The report on Sunday Schools was called for and read by J. W. Minor, and is as follows, viz :
REPORT ON SUNDAY SCHOOLS.
Your Committee beg leave to report as follows .
We have within our Association of thirty-one Churches and four thousand members, nineteen Bible Schools organized, with eighty-eight officers and teachers, and twenty-one hundred students. The contributions for all pur- poses $850.00, as reported at our last session.
The work for the past year is as follows : Number of schools twenty- four, an increase of five over the year previous, with a membership of seven- teen hundred and twenty-four in regular attendance. The scholarship dimin- ished about 18 per cent. The contributions for general purposes was $627.99, for Missions $173.84, for Orphanage $49.67, for Howard College $46.31, for Church Aid $33.00. An aggregate of $931.81. There were baptized into the churches, from the Schools during the year, ninety members.
The primary objeet of these organizations is, as we all understand, bible study; not only the letter of the word, but the spirit as well, as the Saviour promised, saying, "I will send the comforter, and when he is come he will guide you into all truth."
In this work is found some of the most zealous members of the churches, who make their religion an object of study, prayer and application, seeking means of growth and opportunities of development, and in obedience to the scriptural injunction, " Bring a child up in the way it should go and when it is old it will not depart from it."
The fruit of Bible School work is an evidence of the abiding presence of the Spirit. Year by year does the church gather the precious fruit of Bible School work, which constitutes a very large per cent, of the church member- ship, who as a rule are the most active and progressive, for the reason, that in the school they receive a scriptural training in the matter of liberally contrib- uting to benevolent, charitable and spiritual interests, before worldly greed and sinful selfishness seizes them and takes the place of christian liberality. There is kept before them continually the missions, their purpose, work and needs. The orphans, the poor and kindred interests, which appeal very strongly to the tender and sympathetic heart of the child and child-like spirit.
This field is open to every church and church member. The work is such that all may be engaged and profitably so, either as director, teacher of class,
24 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SEISION
or teacher by example, all of which bear fruit in blessing, and reward in the salvation of our own and other children.
In the light of progressive Bible School work, why not thirty-one Schools and four thousand scholars, instead of nineteen schools and two thousand scholars ? There are churches which cannot have the entire service of the pastor. But every church may have and enjoy a Bible School every sabbath, even though it be small.
Respectfully submitted,
J. W. Minor, Chairman.
The report was discussed by A. B. Johnston and W. R. Ivey. The hour for adjournment having arrived the further discussion of the report was postponed to 3:30 p. m., and the Association adjourned.
THIRD DAY — Afternoon Session.
The Association was called to order promptly at 2:30 p. m. After singing and prayer, the Committee on Church Improvements submitted its report as follows, viz :
REPORT ON CHURCH IMPROVEMENTS.
The following Churches report improvements as follows:
Avondale $ 137 15
Second Church 36 35
Blossburg 115 00
Bellview 400 00
Brookside 110 00
Bessemer 410 00
Coalburg 12 00
Dolomite 152 10
Irondale 400 00
McElwain 700 00
Oak Grove 5 00
Pratt City 338 85
Union 50 00
Woodlawn 200 00
Warrior 1,010 45
Third Church 725 00
$4,801 80 We beg to commend the Church Extension Society, organized under the
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.
2&
auspices of the Executive Committee, to the favorable consideration of the Churches and to their financial aid.
James Hogan, Chairman.
The report was adopted.
The report of the Executive Committee was read by the Chairman, Brother A. B. Johnston, as follows, viz :
KEPOET OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
Your Executive Committee beg to report that, as shown by the letters, ^we have this year contributed an amount for missions in excess of the apportionment. The total contributions for Missions being $2,577.73. For Ministerial Education $104.32. For Orphan's Home $242.98. This is a result for which we should be thankful, seeing that the effort to raise money for Howard College has interfered with collections for each of these objects.
The per capita contributions for missions runs from nothing in some churches to $1.61 in others. The banner churches being :
Pratt City $1 61 per capita.
Coalburg 1 32 per capita.
Third Church 1 17 per capita.
First Church 1 03 per capita.
By arrangement with the State Board, Brother James Hogan was ap- pointed on the 15th of January our Missionary to work in the bounds of this Association at a salary of $50 per month and his travelling expenses, we are glad to report that enough money has been raised to pay his salary and that we have no debt on this score.
He has labored faithfully and his report is herewith annexed.
The students at Howard College have done good work, which has been highly appreciated by your Committee. We hope and believe they will be increasingly useful, and ask that any churches wishing the services of these brethren will correspond with the Chairman of this Committee. The
students report that of their number here, preached
sermons at places, their expenses having been paid.
Under the auspices of this Committee a Sunday School Association was formed last January. It has held only two meetings, one at the South Side, the other at the First Church, the attendance and interest has not seemed to justify an attempt at another meeting.
In March a Church Extension Society was organized, of which A. B. Johnston was elected President ; Bro. H. H. Brown, Vice-President ; J. B. Gibson, Secretary and Treasurer. The object of this organization is to aid by gift or loan the building of such churches as may be approved by the Society. To this end the contributions of the liberally disposed are solicited.
It was thought for various reasons desirable to change the meeting of the Association from Dolomite to Ruhama Church, and the time from Tuesday
26 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
before the last Sunday in September, to Tuesday before the first Sunday in October.
Your Committee recommend the employment of a missionary to work in our bounds this year, and this recommendation meets the approval of our State Secretary.
Your Committee recommend that the Churches in remitting money for Missions, State, Home and Foreign, send all their money to Bro. Bledsoe, without giving instructions about its object and that he be allowed to divide all amounts sent from this Association for Missions, one-third to each board.
Your Committee deprecate the action of the Sunday School Board in raising through the Sunday Schools money for the Home and Foreign Boards, without giving our State Board credit and the commission agreed upon between the Home and Foreign Mission Boards and the State Board.
Your Committee has expended all the funds in its hands and would like to have its treasury replenished with $10 or $15 for necessary expenses.
We annex the apportionment for the ensuing year.
We commend the Greensboro Church to the favorable consideration of our churches and recommend a liberal contribution from those to which Bro. Hardy may appeal.
For the Committee,
A. B. Johnston, Chairman.
REPOKT OF JAMES HOGAN, MISSIONARY.
To the Executive Committee, Birmingham Baptist Association.
Dear Brethren: — I herewith hand you my report of work done from time of my appointment to the close of third quarter, time being eight and one-half months.
I found the need of mission work much greater than I had hitherto thought it to be.
While I have visited nearly all the churches in the Association, I have gone not to inaugurate new plans of work, but to bear fraternal greetings and encourage them in their already good begun work.
I have devoted my time mainly to the destitute territory embraced in our Association.
The territory east of Red Mountain, beginning at the Water works on the Cahaba river and thence along Shades Mountain to Oxmoor, thence to Bessemer would require the entire time of one man. Embraced in this is the Shades Valley, with the following towns: Rosedale, Oxmoor, Sumter, Ishkooda, Smith's Mines, Reader's and Sloss Mines.
Below Bessemer we have Jonesboro on the A. G. S. R. R. and Adger, Johns and Sumter on the B. M. R. R. Not many white people at Johns and Sumter.
At the Fair Grounds (Compton), we have a promising mission, where we hope to organize a church on the first Sunday in October, witli a member- ship of more than twenty.
OF THE BIRMINGHAM RAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 27
There should be preaching at least once a month at the following places, not included in the foregoing report. Brighton, two miles this side of Bessemer; Powderly and Cleveland, on the B. P. & B. Dummy Line; Henry- ellen, on the Southern R. R., where there is a good house free to all denomi- nations. Also, Mary Lee where we have a weak church, worshiping in a house free for all denominations.
There is yet other territory that needs our attention that I have not been able to reach.
I have held and assisted others in quite a number of meetings during the last three months, with between sixty and seventy conversions. Some of whom have not joined any church.
The collections taken at churches I left, thinking it to be the better plan, requesting them to take regular collections and forward to Dr. Bledsoe.
I wish to report a new house of worship, well on towards completion for the Third Church. This is a work that I have looked forward to with much interest.
Days Service 259
Miles Traveled 936
Sermons 1"°
Addresses ' "
Received by letter, (in connection with Pastor) 9
Restored (in connection with Pastor) 1
Baptisms (in connection with Pastor) 11
Churches visited -0
Preaching Stations 9
Sunday Schools organized 5
Subscribers Alabama Baptist
Assisted in ordaining deacons 4
Assisted in ordaining ministers 2
To railroad fare $13 65
By amount Pratt City Church $17 00
By amount received of stations and others 25 55
By amount received S. B. M. (Dr. B.) 75 00
The report was discussed by brethren A. B. Johnston, G. T. Lee and H. H. Brown, and adopted.
The following resolution was offered by H. A. Hagler, and unanimously adopted, viz:
Resolved, That the delegates and visitors to this Association return thanks to the good people of East Lake for their unbounded hospitality since we have been in their midst.
The discussion of the report on Sabbath Schools was
"28 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
resumed by W. R. Ivey, and after brief addresses by others, was adopted.
A motion was adopted that the Clerk be paid twenty dollars ($20.00) for his services.
The Executive Committee was instructed to collect more money for printing Minutes if there is not a sufficient amount sent up by the churches for that purpose.
Having finished its business, " How Firm a Foundation" was sung, the parting hand was extended, and after prayer by Brother B. F. Giles, the Association adjourned to meet with the church at Irondale, Tuesday before the second Sun- day in September, 1897.
M. M. Wood, Clerk.
3n ITTemortarrL
Rev. Andrew Jackson Waldrop.
"The memory of the just is blessed."
Rev. A. J. Waldrop was born in Christian County, Kentucky, February 7, 1815, and died at East Lake, Alabama, September 13, 1896. His father, Robert Waldrop, removed from Kentucky to Jefferson County, Alabama, in 1818, the son being then but three years of age. Here the child grew into manhood, and the man lived and labored until the burden of four score years lay upon his tired shoulders, and he gently fell asleep, and in the same beau- tiful valley, whose streams and flowers and people were dear to his heart, he was laid to rest, close by the old Ruhama Church, at East Lake, of which he was the beloved pastor for thirty years.
It is not the purpose of this sketch to give a biography of our departed brother, which would require a volume of many pages. We can hope only to be able, in so short an article, to give some of the most important facts and leading characteristics of his eventful, work-filled and godly life. His church relation began in 1833, when he was baptized by Rev. Hosea Holcombe into the fellowship of the Rock Creek Baptist Church. In 1842, nine years later, he was ordained to the ministry at the same church, the presbytery consisting of H. Holcombe and Joseph Byars. The young man was at once in demand as a preacher. Possessing as he did, a handsome and vigorous physique, a pleasing address, a good supply of energy and splendid natural endowments, with deep piety and broad sympathies, he was unusually well equipped to battle against the many disadvantages of pioneer life. In accounting for so useful a life under such adverse circumstances, we must not overlook the extraordinary gifts of the man. Rev. A. J. Waldrop was a born leader. For a period of almost a half century he was the most prominent figure among the Baptists of North Alabama. No man was more honored by the churches, none more loved by the people.
In 1844 he was elected Clerk of the Canaan (now Birmingham) Associa- tion. He served in this capacity until he was elected Moderator in 1857, which position he filled until the time of his death — a period of 41 years. In his ruling as a presiding officer, he was kind but positive, and while he did
30 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
not claim to be an expert parliamentarian, his fine common sense and a clever idea of parliamentary law gave him good command of a body.
As a preacher he was didactic, expository and doctrinal. He possessed rather the eloquence of facts than fancy, the rhetoric of righteousness than roses. He believed more in gospel than gush. His great theme was "salva- tion by grace," and he relied upon the Holy Spirit as the quickening power of the Word. He never resorted to sensational methods as a preacher of the cross.
Brother Waldrop was in advance of his day as a Missionary. He was the leading missionary spirit in his Association for almost forty years, travel- ing himself much of the time as Associational Missionary. No man has done more to beat back the waves of anti-mission influence which once swept over this country than he. It was due to him and the co-laborer of his early life, Rev. Hosea Holcombe, that the seeds of "Hardshell" heresy found little favorable soil in our Association. Almost every Minute of the Association, going back even into the thirties, bears testimony to the fact that Rev. A. J. Waldrop was a missionary in principle and in practice.
Among the many excellent qualities of our deceased brother was his practical judgment in adjusting matters of dispute among his brethren and churches. His work as a peace maker was not confined to his immediate section. Far out into Central and North Alabama, in his palmy days, his presence and counsel were sought as a pacificator.
It is worthy of note that Bro. Waldrop always wore the honors conferred by his brethren with becoming grace. A meek and quiet spirit characterized his public utterances and his private life. He never arrogated to himself the right to " lord it over God's heritage." In his bearing toward his fellow min- isters he was kind and encouraging, but entirely free from fulsome flattery and petty jealousies. He took special interest in the younger men of the ministry, and it was a real pleasure to him to assist them in every way possi- ble. It was a principle of his life to look on the bright side, hence he never lost touch with the young, and his own heart never grew old.
Few lives have been subject to more vicissitudes than was his, and yet to every new relation he adapted himself with the ease and naturalness of one born in that environment. The spirit of the croaker found no brooding place in his mind. Years and cares did not shut out the joy of life from his heart nor the light of hope from his face. It would be difficult to enumerate the strong points of Bro. Waldrop's life, he had so few weak ones. As a man he was honest, candid, self-reliant and prompt. He was known as a " minute man." He was a broad-minded and enterprising citizen, who believed in law and order, and always deprecated mob violence and the un-American spirit of anarchy. A favorite passage of Scripture with him was, "Render untoC;vsar the things which are Cresar's and unto God the things which are God's."
He served his County three years as Tax Collector and eight years as Clerk of the Circuit Court. Bro. Waldrop was married five times. His first wife, Miss Fannie Lee, was the mother of his eldest son, Rev. E. B. Waldrop,
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 31
deceased. His second wife, Miss Sarah Hood, was the mother of his only surviving children, Mrs. Catherine Montgomery and Robert Judson, Professor of Mathematics in Howard College, and successor to his father as Moderator of the Birmingham Baptist Association. His last wife, Mrs. Ermine McGaha, was a great comfort to him in his old age. She too has passed to her reward. While we mourn the death of so good and useful a brother, whose his- tory and life are a goodly heritage to the people he loved so well and served so faithfully, and while we shall miss the inspiration of his presence and the wisdom of his counsel, we bow in humble submission to Him who doeth all things well, rejoicing in the noble record our brother has left on earth and the blessed reward into which he has entered above.
Respectfully,
W. A. Hobson, Chairman.
3n IHemoriarrL
Rev. Elisha B. Waldrop
Second son of Rev. A. J. Waldrop, was born in Jefferson County, Ala- bama, September 15, 1838, and died November 14, 1895, at his home near Huffman, Jefferson County, Alabama.
Brother Waldrop was married twice. His first wife was Miss Malinda Barton, with whom he lived most happily for only a few months, when death took her from him.
His second wife was Miss Sue Bradford, of Wetumpka, Alabama, to whom he was married March 3, 1868. To this marriage was born two sons and two daughters ; two sons, Thomas and Lattimore, and one daughter, Fannie, still live with their godly mother to mourn the death of an ideal husband and father.
Brother Waldrop was converted and received into the fellowship of the Ruhama Church when about sixteen years of age, and to the day of his death lived above reproach.
In the fall of 1870, he was, at the request of the Ruhama Church, ordained to the ministry, the ordaining council consisting of Revs. A. J. Wal- drop, James Grimes and J. J. D. Renfroe, D. D. He was a "good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine," which made his services desirable and highly appreciated by the large num- ber of people to whom he ministered in holy things during the twenty-five years of his ministerial life.
Quiet, but not gloomy ; cheerful, but not light-minded ; strong in convic- tions, but not bitter in expression; industrious, but not over-zealous; kind and tender toward the erring, without fellowship with sin; whether in his family, the private homes of his friends, the pulpit, or elsewhere, his presence will be greatly missed, and we bear cheerful testimony to the invaluable worth of such a well rounded character, to both church and state.
Peace be to his ashes 'till the "trump of God shall sound," and abound- ing grace to his family and loved ones until, one by one, they joim him on the other shore.
M. M. Wood,
For the Committee.
OP THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 33
REPORT ON CONSTITUTION.
To the Birmingham Baptist Association :
Your Committee appointed at the last session " to look up the Constitu- tion and By-Laws of the Association, and if they could not be found to pre- pare a new Constitution and By-Laws" beg leave to report:
First — That after some trouble, it has found the old Minute Book, con- taining, with other matters, the Constitution, Abstract of Faith, and Rules of Decorum, of which the date of adoption is not stated. They were ordered to be engrossed at a meeting held at Zion Church, St Clair County, in Septem- ber, 1839.
Second — The Minute Book is herewith presented for your consideration.
Third — Although the above report fulfilled the specific duty with which your Committee was charged, various reasons impel it to recommend the adoption of the following, instead of the Constitution, Abstract of Faith, and Rules of Decorum recorded in the old Minute Book with their various amend- ments since :
CONSTITUTION.
I. This body shall be known as "The Birmingham Baptist Association."'
II. It shall be composed of messengers from Missionary Baptist Churches.
III. The messengers from any Missionary Baptist Church may be admitted into this Association by the unanimous consent of the members- present at any regular meeting.
IV. Any Church in good fellowship may at her discretion, withdraw from this body.
V. This Association may at any meeting declare a dissolution of union* with any Church deemed corrupt, either in doctrine or practice.
VI. Any Church in this Association with fifty members, or under, may send three messengers, with one additional for each succeeding fifty members, or major fraction thereof.
VII. At each session of the Association a Moderator, a Recording Secre- tary and Treasurer, and a Corresponding Secretary shall be chosen by ballot, and shall hold office until their successors are elected.
VIII. The meeting of the Association shall be held annually at such time as the body may select.
IX. The design of this Association is to promote the cause of true Re- ligion within the several Churches of which it is or may be composed ; and to sustain the various objects fostered by the Alabama State Convention and the Southern Baptist Convention.
X. This Association has no authority over local Churches nor any right to interfere with their internal concerns.
XI. For the mutual benefit of the Churches composing this Association, it shall be the duty of each Church to forward with their messengers a written
34 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSIO
communication to each annual meeting, specifying the names of the messen- gers, statistics of the Church for the foregoing year, giving an account of its spiritual condition, and stating the names of its Pastor and of any other Licentiates or Ordained Ministers connected with the Church.
XII. In the interregnum between its annual sessions the business of this Association shall be committed to an Executive Committee to be composed of nine members, of whom five shall constitute a quorum, to be nominated by Committee on Nominations and elected by the Association, and which Com- mittee shall make report to the next meeting of the Association.
XIII. The Special and Standing Committees shall be appointed by the Moderator.
XIV. The messengers from the Churches shall be considered as holding their appointment until others are appointed to succeed them, and in case of emergency may be called together by the Chairman of the Executive Com- mittee.
XV. This Constitution may be altered or amended by two-thirds of the messengers present at any annual meeting.
CONFESSION OF FAITH.
This Association adopts as voicing its views of Religious truth the New Hampshire Confession of Faith.
RULES OF DECORUM.
This Association adopts for its guidance Mell's Parliamentary Practice.
Respectfully Submitted,
Committee.
OF THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 35
Declaration of Faith.
I. Of the Scriptures. — We believe the Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired, and is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction ; that it has God for its Author, salva- tion for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter; that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us, and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true centre of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions, should be tried.
II. Of the true God. — That there is one, and only one, true and living God, whose name is JEHOVAH, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth ; inexpressibly glori- ous in holiness ; worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love ; revealed under the personal and relative distinctions of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost ; equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offi- ces in the great work of redemption.
III. Of the Fall of Man. — That man was created in a state of holiness, under the law of his Maker, but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state ; in conse- quence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by con- straint, but choice ; being by nature utterly void of that holi- ness required by the law of God, wholly given to the gratifi- cation of the world, of Satan, and of their own sinful passions, and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin, with- out defence or excuse.
IV. Of the Way of Salvation. — That the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace, through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God, who took upon him our nature, yet without sin ; honored the law by his personal obedience, and made atonement for our sins by his death ; being risen from the dead, he is now enthroned in heaven ; and uniting in his
36 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine per- fections, is every way qualified to be a suitable, a compas- sionate, and an all sufficient Saviour.
V. Of Justification. — That the great gospel blessing which Christ, of his fulness, bestows on such as believe in him, is justification ; that justification consists in the pardon of sin and the promise of eternal life, on principles of right- eousness ; that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through his own redemption and righteousness ; that it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity.
VI. Of the Freeness of Salvation. — That the bless- ings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel ; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial and obedient faith; and that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth, except his own voluntary refusal to submit to the Lord Jesus Christ ; which refusal will subject him to an aggravated condemnation.
VII. — Of Grace in Regeneration. — That, in order to be saved, we must be regenerated, or born again ; that regen- eration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind, and is effected in a manner above our comprehension or calcula- tion, by the power of the Holy Spirit, so as to secure our vol- untary obedience to the gospel ; and that its proper evidence is found in the holy fruit which we bring forth to the glory of God.
VIII. Of God's Purpose of Grace. — That election is the gracious purpose of God, according to which he regener- ates, sanctifies, and saves sinners ; that, being perfectly con- sistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end ; that it is a most glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, being infinitely wise, holy, and unchangeable ; that it utterly excludes boasting, and promotes humility, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active imitation of his free mercy ; that it encourages the use
OP THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 37
of means in the highest degree ; that it is ascertained by its effects in all who believe the gospel ; is the foundation of Christian assurance ; and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves, demands and deserves our utmost diligence.
IX. Of the Perseverance of Saints. — That such only are real believers as endure unto the end ; that their perse- vering attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distin- guishes them from superficial professors ; that a special Prov- idence watches over their welfare ; and they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.
X. Harmony of the Law and Gospel. — That the law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of his moral gov- ernment; that is holy, just and good ; and that the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen man to fulfill its pre- cepts, arises entirely from their love of sin ; to deliver them from which, and to restore them, through a Mediator, to unfeigned obedience to the holy law, is one great end of the gospel, and of the means of grace connected with the estab- lishment of the visible church.
XL Of a Gospel Church. — That a visible Church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ ; governed by his laws ; and exercis- ing the gifts, rights, and privileges, invested in them by his word ; that its only proper officers are bishops, or pastors, and deacons, whose qualifications, claims, and duties, are defined in the Epistles to Timothy and Titus.
XII. Of Baptism and the Lord's Supper. — That Chris- tian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water, in the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit; to show forth, in a sol- emn and beautiful emblem, our faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Saviour, with its purifying power ; that it is pre- requisite to the privileges of a church relation, and to the Lord's supper, in which the members of the church, by the use of bread and wine, are to commemorate together the
38 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
dying love of Christ — preceded always by solemn self-exam- ination.
XIII. Of the Christian Sabbath. — That the first day of the week is the Lord's day, or Christian Sabbath, and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes, by abstaining from all secular labor and recreations; by the devout observance of all the means of grace, both private and public ; and by preparation for that rest which remaineth for the people of God.
XIV. Of Civil Government. — That civil government is of divine appointment, for the interests of good order of human society ; and that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored, and obeyed, except in things op- posed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the only Lord of the conscience, and the Prince of the kings of the earth.
XV. Of the Righteous and the Wicked. — That there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked ; that such only as through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in his esteem ; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in his sight wicked, and under the curse; and this distinction holds among men both in and after death.
XVI. Of the World to come. — That the end of this world is approaching ; that, at the last day, Christ will descend from heaven, and raise the dead from the grave to final retri- bution[; that a solemn separation will then take place ; that the wicked will be adjudged to endless punishment, and the righteous to endless joy; and that this judgment will fix for- ever the final state of men, in heaven or hell, on principles of righteousness.
MINUTES
SIXTH ANNIVERSARY
WOMAN'S M/SS/ONARY UN/ON
BIRMINGHAM ASSOCIATION.
The Woman's Missionary Union convened in the Metho- dist Episcopal Church, South, at East Lake, Ala., at 9:30 a. m., September 30, 1896.
Mrs. L. F. Stratton, President of the Central Committee, presided. She read a portion of Scripture, and was followed by Mrs. Harriet Wood in an earnest prayer for the blessing and sanction of the Holy Spirit upon Woman's Work for the Master — especially upon this meeting and the women here assembled.
Mrs. Grant of the Methodist Church was requested to take charge of the music ; and the skill and sweetness of her performance, and her beautiful and appropriate selections from Gospel Hymns added much to the interest of the meeting.
Mrs. Wm. Franklin, Vice-President of the Northern Di- vision of the Association, made a report of her year's work. She had visited most of the Churches, had sought to arouse and encourage existing Societies, and to induce the formation of others. While the work had not been so successful as she had hoped, the prospect was encouraging.
In the absence, on account of sickness, of Mrs. Aird, Vice-President of the Southern Division, Mrs. Stratton
40 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
reported in her stead. That the work had been prosperous would be shown by reports of Societies.
KEPORT OF CONTRIBUTIONS.
Avondale, Ladies' Union $184 18
Avondale, B. Y. P. U 42 53
Bessemer, L. A. S 196 89
Bessemer, Mrs. Ivey's Class 19 99
South Side, Ladies' Circle 441 65
South Side, Pastor's Aid 217 10
Birmingham Third Church, L. A. S 93 40
Pratt City, L. A. S 240 37
East Lake, L. A. S 251 53
Trussville, L. A. S 63 00
Trussville, Miss Talley's infant class 2 50
Woodlawn, L. A. S.... 277 53
Woodlawn, F. M. Soc 13 90
Birmingham First Church, L. U 735 40
Mt. Pinson, L. A. S 17 50
New Prospect, L. A. S 4 70
Total $2,832 17
Many societies not reported.
Mrs. Abbott made an earnest address on Faithfulness.
Miss Mabel Massey read a bright and thoughtful essay on the B. Y. P. U. She dwelt on the good accomplished and the non-fulfillment of the evils predicted. There are eleven organized Unions in the Birmingham Association, all doing good work.
Mrs. Gray made an interesting and effective address on frontier missionaries.
Mrs. Johnson asked to whom are these boxes sent? And dare any of us give to our Lord cast-off clothing and things of no value ? The discussion was participated in by Mrs. Harriet Wood, Mrs. Stratton, Mrs. Brown and others. Nine boxes were pledged for the societies represented.
Mrs. Bauerman, missionary to colored women, was pres- ent by invitation, and made a very interesting statement of her work and its results. Mrs. Brown thanked her in the
OP THE BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 41
name of the W. M. U. for her address, and for the good she and her associate, Miss Knapp, were doing in our midst.
Mrs. Kelley gave a bright and much enjoyed account of what she saw and heard and did at the Woman's meeting in Chattanooga.
AFTERNOON SESSION.
Rev. A. R. Hardy of the Greensboro Church addressed the Union in behalf of that body. The ladies present pledged for their societies $5 1 for the Greensboro church.
Mrs. Stratton spoke of the Central Committee, its appoint- ment, duties, needs, etc.
Mrs. Brown talked of "Our Missionaries" — Miss Willie Kelley and Miss Anna B. Hartwell — supported in China by Alabama women. Pledges were made for Miss Hartwell, the Birmingham missionary, to the amount of one-half of her salary. A collection was taken up for the same purpose.
A resolution was passed thanking our Methodist brethren for the use of their beautiful new building, and for other •courtesies, and Mrs. Grant for her delightful and inspiring music.
Mrs. Stratton offered the closing prayer.
Mrs. L. F. Stratton, President. Mrs. I. C. Brown, Secretary.
42
THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL SESSION
REPORT ON APPORTIONMENT.
CHURCHES
Missions
Education
Orphan's Home
Adger
A vondale
Bessemer
Birmingham, 1st ,
Birmingham, 2d
Birmingham, 3d
Birmingham, South Side.
Canaan
Central ,
Concord
Dolomite
Elyton
Green Springs
Johns ,
Mt. Olive
New Prospect
Oak Grove
Pratt City
Pleasant Ridge
Ruhama
Salem
Springville
Trussville
Irondale
Union
Warrior
Williamsburg
Woodlawn
Brookside
Coal burg
Compton
Rocky Ridge
Blossburg
Bellview
Springdale
Piney Grove
McElwain
$5 00 25 00
200 00
700 00 60 00 20 00
700 00 20 00 20 00 15 00 60 00 60 00 10 00 5 00 10 00 50 00 20 00
300 00 ' 25 00
500 00 25 00 40 00
100 00 25 00* 20 00
100 00 10 00
300 00 10 00 30 00 10 00 20 00 10 00 10 00 10 00 15 00 15 00
$2 50 20 00
35 00 125 00
10 00
6 00
125 00
10 00
10 00
5 00
15 00
20 00
5 00
2 50 5 00
10 00 10 00 25 00 10 00 100 00 10 00 10 00 18 00 10 00
5 00 20 00
5 00
36 00
3 00
5 00
4 00
6 00
$1 50
15 00
20 00
125 00
5 00
4 00 125 00
5 00 5 00 2 50
10 00 10 00
50 00 00 00 00
50 00 5 00
50 00 5 00 5 00
12 00 5 00 2 50
15 00 2 00
25 00
00
50 00 00 50 50 50 00 50
FINANCIAL EXHIBIT OF BIRMINGHAM BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.
|
MISSIONS |
EDUCATIONAL |
HOME EXPENSES |
Total |
Women's Young People's and Children's Societies |
SUNDAY SCHOOLS |
||||||||||||||||
|
CHURCHES |
cp QQ |
a o W |
c .** 'S3 u o fa |
2 a ,43 rt «-i o |
C3 "« o CO co |
5 CO '3 |
IO a is '3 pq cp S)C Cp O |
01 a o w "c cci Oh 6 |
so 09 a % $2 00 10 00 5 00 1 00 |
u G8 CO 00 "V< 0 co sj Ph |
cp H fa w € -r .2 0 cS O C Oj |
co "o 0 CJ CO >-. ra •d C a CO |
CO R _o CO $18 58 |
0 a CJ H $3 00 |
CO CP CO a CP Ph M w CP a w 147 15 |
CP a 0 K CD 3 a, i~ O |
CO 0 _o "co CO |
c ad 3 |
CO CV CO s CV CL, H Q O A 0 CO |
CP a 0 w 'a 0* — |
si P Ph > - |
|
| |
$ 22 39 ■1 is 45 168 32 2 65 26 90 3 10 72 07 |
190 75 •jus 33 2 71 5 50 2 50 43 22 |
$ |
$ |
$ |
$148 00 1,261 00 186 35 20 00 |
$4 75 45. 50 62 22 3 45 |
$738 00 2.400 00 1,800 00 431 65 |
$282 85 1,996 25 2,537 50 158 89 750 00 400 00 566 60 123 15 120 04 |
$115 18 |
$1,327 17 6.304 47 5,030 77 663 20 S14 40 458 20 1,678 29 222 43 157 08 68 21 31 10 364 00 79 10 226 87 252 33 10 93 527 05 718 95 29 20 125 23 51 68 50 91 00 2.268 81 ' 47 85 1,753 24 4 94 48 43 131 10 538 76 211 62 1,595 40 1,266 43 |
$5 00 |
s4 75 «2 nnn f\(\ |
||||||||
|
Birmingham First... |
142 52 63 OS |
10 00 |
12,500 00 45,000 00 6,000 00 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
259 55 5 36 21 40 |
30 00 10 00 |
398 50 20 31 |
100 14 |
196 85 42 85 16 00 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
Birmingham Second Birmingham Third.. |
5 36 |
42 85 16 00 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
16 00 |
11 00 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
45 14 25 |
2 15 2 50 1 50 1 58 1 60 |
50 00 829 90 72 50 37 00 45 89 25 00 138 85 72 00 146 30 26 75 |
1 000 00 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
Bessemer |
71 00 |
50 00 2 90 42 |
16 54 |
32 00 5 38 |
15 00 |
32 00 5 38 |
|
6,600 00 |
|||||||||||||
|
17 00 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
•1 60 |
|
2 17 |
1 27 |
300 00 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
:; en 1 70 8 15 |
•1 C,(i 3 00 |
12 52 |
500 00 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
1 40 |
9 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
( loalburg |
'J;') 00 |
60 00 |
66 00 |
11 64 |
1 00 1 50 1 50 1 50 1 25 1 85 1 00 1 10 2 00 1 10 50 2 00 4 00 1 00 4 (0 1 50 1 55 1 25 1 40 2 00 1 50 3 00 |
53 36 2 50 7 22 211 25 |
0 00 |
||||||||||||||
|
3 10 15 00 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
Klvtmi |
72 5 00 3 00 2 10 |
16 13 14 85 |
15 00 26 13 3 88 |
16 13 14 85 |
2 ■■ |
||||||||||||||||
|
8 06 3 60 |
13 07 ;; 00 9 00 2 25 |
15 00 |
10 00 |
10 00 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
10 00 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1 60 |
12 50 13 20 |
100 00 |
400 00 700 00 4 60 14 61 10 77 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
2 50 1 00 1 00 47 |
1,« |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
Mt. Olive |
1 00 5 00 47 |
1 50 |
20 00 78 24 36 20 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
2 87 47 |
17 42 |
4 08 2 20 |
4 61 |
1,000 00 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
800 IK) |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
Pine < rrove |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
14 00 315 83 |
75 00 662 32 22 00 1,031 43 |
250 00 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
Pratt City |
61 28 |
515 00 |
60 92 |
599 63 14 70 452 69 |
49 83 5 15 |
142 10 |
40 00 |
16 00 |
59 44 |
49 83 44 1^2 |
3.500 00 |
||||||||||
|
Rocky Ridge |
5 00 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
117 75 |
26 78 |
73 97 |
6 62 |
500 00 |
144 53 |
12 00 |
95 00 |
6,0 |
|||||||||||||
|
Salem |
3 44 |
400 00 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
Spring Dale |
2 94 |
3 34 1 25 37 05 |
40 60 75 00 197 15 118 33 350 00 560 00 |
1 94 |
|
1,000 00 0 00 |
|||||||||||||||
|
Springville |
1 60 10 00 4 45 9 19 27 85 |
40 00 83 05 72 00 1,130 39 498 52 |
12 00 24 00 10 00 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
Trussville |
31 80 85 16 44 43 75 |
22 00 |
130 31 |
5 00 |
25 00 |
33 00 |
25 78 |
6 31 |
14 80 |
||||||||||||
|
Uuion |
4 00 |
"21 06" 10 68 |
600 ik) |
||||||||||||||||||
|
53 32 42 65 |
15 00 14 00 |
2,017 00 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
Woodlawn |
36 08 |
309 30 $1,022 87 |
47 14 $290 45 |
59 18 $447 87 |
10 68 $70 35 |
- |
|||||||||||||||
|
$596 52 |
$120 00 |
$16 00 |
$11 31 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
Total |
$400 99 |
$791 59 |
$655 66 |
$22 00 |
$449 86 |
$169 77 |
$2,894 11 |
$249 68 1 $66 23 |
$10,170 10 |
$11,240 57 |
$398 25 |
$27,098 74 |
$109,077 00 |
Collections at Association for State Missions, $57.16.
STATISTICS OF BIRMINGHAM ASSOCIATION, 1896.
|
PASTOR |
CLERK |
CLERK'S POST OFFICE |
T3 o> U o a. « to es CO U <v 3 0> 3 |
Increase by |
Decreased by |
s CD a co d CD co co (4 Ph |
SUNDAY SCHOOL |
Preaching Sabbaths |
be % O) ■h 4> t>~. es CO U O a- 0) |
||||||||||||
|
CHURCH |
COUNTY |
a Oh PQ |
u CO .-3 |
a i> a co es j. |
G es 2 s pq |
i—5 |
d .9, "7. fl u X w |
co s- P <§ |
CO P |
CO s- <o A O es Oi 03 so 33 0 O |
CO 'p. B Ph |
Superintendent's Name |
Post Office Address |
CO Ph" CO ~u 0 q |
|||||||
|
R M Hunter |
J. B. Alversen J. F. Graham J. A. Stratton A. E. Atwater |
143 503 636 78 30 51 244 32 13 62 93 33 31 77 82 34 66 |
4 27 12 7 3 16 2 2 3 2 4 2 1 10 4 2 21 5 |
27 43 49 12 2 5 21 11 6 2 1 3 4 5 3 |
"i |
2 |
9 38 48 14 2 1 10 5 1 |
6 2 |
2 6 7 1 |
164 527 642 84 30 56 217 37 20 43 65 24 37 72 82 34 82 22 37 110 88 26 86 234 37 362 64 67 101 122 60 101 29 276 32 4070 |
14 3 23 9 6 6 11 7 " *5 |
140 201 247 99 60 50 90 63 "46 |
W. T. Simmons S. P. Fowlkes..., |
Birmingham Birmingham Birmingham North B'ham |
Weekly.. Weekly.. Weekly.. Weekly.. Weekly.. 1st Weekly.. 3rd 4th |
Yes.... u a it a |
|||||
|
Birmingham, 1st |
B D Gray... |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
P. T. Hale J B Tidwell |
ic |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
Birmingham, 2d Birmingham, 3d |
C. Thomas |
t. |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
M |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
J M Huey |
J. W. Russell |
2 2 1 |
J. K. Pemberton O. W. Ward |
Kimbrel Bessemer Bkssburg Brookside.. Morgan |
a |
||||||||||||||||
|
W. R. Ivey |
T. P. Waller |
8 |
45 |
K |
|||||||||||||||||
|
J W. O'Hara |
W. D. Barksdale R. M,. Inzer |
Blossburg |
J. B. Moor T. S. Teny |
||||||||||||||||||
|
J. W. O'Hara L. P. Craig |
Brookside |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
2 \ |
20 20 |
1 2 |
W. S. Harrison |
4th |
a |
||||||||||||||||
|
9 12 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
J. H. Longcrier J. W. Lee |
W. C.Bryant |
6 |
50 |
W. C. Bryant |
1st & 3d |
>. |
|||||||||||||||
|
Concord |
J. A. Baker |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
Elyton |
F. H. Farrington ... W. J. Ray |
D. R. Weaver L. C. Meigs |
Elyton |
2 |
14 3 1 10 1 7 3 5 |
1 |
1 2 |
7 7 6 7 |
46 50 50 43 |
M. P. Lewis |
Birmingham Birmingham Irondale |
2d & 3d.. 3d 3d |
a |
« |
|||||||
|
Dolomite |
J. L. Thurman Fred Holden ... |
it |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
J. D. Martin |
G.W.Smith |
B'ham, L. & N. Car. |
it |
||||||||||||||||||
|
W. Y. Browning W. Y. Browning J. W. Law ley A. A. Hutto |
W. J. Cardwell |
8 17 |
ii |
2 1 2 1 |
3 |
W. J. Cardwell |
3d... |
u |
|||||||||||||
|
McElwain |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
Mt. Olive |
G. B. Moore |
Clay |
42 88 86 |
1 2 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
New Prospect |
E. P. Reed |
3 4 |
1 1 |
8 5 |
86 SO |
W. J. Franklin A. C. McCombs |
Stubbs Mt. Pinson... |
4th 4th .... |
ti |
||||||||||||
|
M. T. Branham J. M. Huey J. M. Huey |
J. B. McCombs |
Mt. Pinson... |
It |
||||||||||||||||||
|
S. H. Huey |
81 202 30 410 92 56 96 116 43 90 29 248 32 |
5 28 4 10 1 6 3 17 2 9 |
1 24 5 34 1 19 10 3 23 7 |
i i |
1 J 1 1 |
2 19 2 35 12 14 6 13 7 6 |
a |
||||||||||||||
|
M. M.Wood |
M. M. Roper .., |
Pratt City... |
2 |
1 |
16 6 17 8 5 6 12 5 8 |
185 51 145 55 54 50 |
J. W. Minor.... |
Thomas Trussville .... East Lake.., Mt. Pinson... Springville ... Trussville |
Weekly.. 4th Weeklv.. ?d |
It it a |
a |
||||||||||
|
J. M. Huey |
it |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
W. A. Hobson G. T. Lee |
H. F. Wood.... |
"l 1 |
50 15 |
7 2 |
R. J. Waldrop L. Cobb.... |
||||||||||||||||
|
Salem |
Mt Pinson |
it |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
Springdale |
M. T. Branham P. S. Montgomery... B. F. Giles |
J. S. Connell |
G. W. Hicks |
1st 1st & 3d 1st & 3d 1st 1st & 4th |
a u |
it |
|||||||||||||||
|
Springville |
J. B. Herring |
2 1 |
P. S. Montgomery... R. H. Hendon |
a |
|||||||||||||||||
|
Trussville |
D. H. Vann.... |
1 1 |
1 |
90 35 1A5 |
it |
||||||||||||||||
|
J. D. Martin ... |
R. T. Jones H. A. Hagler |
it |
it |
||||||||||||||||||
|
J .G. Lowrey |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
Williamsburg |
W. H. Connell W. M. Blackwelder. |
Wm. Hicks |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
F. M. Wood |
19 |
27 |
15 |
3 |
17 |
165 |
Woodlawn.... |
Weekly.. |
it |
u |
|||||||||||
|
Compton |
Blou |
nt |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
14 |
14 |
324 |
32 |
151 |
45 |
230 |
|||||||||||||||
|
Total |
3949 |
228 |
380 |
2390 |
|||||||||||||||||
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