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MINUTES
HIUTY- EIGHTH ANNUAL MEETING
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SOUTH ALABAMA;
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HELD WITH THE
CONCORD BAPTIST CHURCH,
DALLAS COUNTY, ALABAMA.
OCTOBER, 1858.
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PRINTED BY J. Y. THOMPSON-^NO. 33 W.VTEK STREET, A
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THE THIRTY-EIGHTH ANNUAL MEETING
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SOUTH ALABAMA.
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The thirty-eighth anniversary of this body convened with the Concord Church, Dallas county, commencing October 2, 1858.
The introductory sermon was delivered by Elder E. C. J. B. Thomas, from the 1st verse of the 133d Psalm :
" Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity."
After a recess for refreshment, the delegates were called to order by the Moderator of the last Association, who led in suitable exercises.
The Association now being organised, Bros. T. J. Barnes, L. B. Law, and H. Adams read the letters from the Churches, which represented the following to be the delegates, state of the Churches, etc. (See Statistical Table.)
SEF* Concord Church sends $2:50 to the Creek Indians, and Friendship Church sends $7:50 for the Choctaws.
EP^The Clerks of the Churches in writing their letters to the next Associa- tion, will mention the date that their respective Churches were constituted, by whom, and the number, &c.
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The names of the Delegates having been ascertained, the body went into an election of officers, which resulted in the reelection of L. Parks Moderator, and R. D. Marshall, Clerk.
The Moderator then gave the usual invitation to Visiting Brethren to take seats with us ; and Elders L. L. Fox, W. C. Buck, and A. Andrews, of the Cahawba Association, came for- ward and presented a package of Minutes.
The following Committees, to report at this meeting, were then appointed :
TO ARRANGE THE PREACHING.
E. S. Thornton, J. W. Tucker, L. B. Law, L. D. Godbold, and the Deacons of this Church.
ON FINANCE.
B. C. Foster, J. A. Gamble, and Lewis Simmons.
ON DOCUMENTS AND REQUESTS. J. Reeves, J. C. Foster, and P. E. Kervin.
ON NOMINATIONS. T. J. Barnes, James Kelly, and James Daughdrill.
ON CORRESPONDENCE. John Talbert, N. Goodwyn, and A. Sale.
The committee roll being arranged, adjourned to meet on Mon- day morning at 9 o'clock.
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Lord's Day, October 3, 1858.
Pursuant to previous appointment, at 11 o'clock, Elder W. Jacob Parker delivered the Missionary Sermon from the 44th verse of the 2d chapter of Daniel, to a large and attentive congregation ; after which a collection was taken up amounting to $47 40.
After recess, Elder W. C. Buck addressed the congregation, and Elder N. Goodwyn closed the evening services.
Monday Morning, October 4, 1858. The Moderator called the Association together, and Elder R. M. Thomas lead in prayer ; after which the invitation to visiting brethren was renewed.
A letter and a package of Minutes were received from the Lib- erty Association.
From the Cahawba Association, Elder L. L. Fox, and R. Holl- man, and a package of Minutes.
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From the Bethlehem Association, Elder J. D. Kendrick, a let- ter and a package of Minutes.
The minutes of the district meetings were called for.
The Treasurer's annual report was then read and placed in the hands of the Finance Committee. (See appendix A.)
The Committee on the state of Religion offered their report. Read and adopted. (See appendix B.)
The report of the Committte on the Missions of the Southern Baptist Convention, was read and adopted. (See appendix C.)
The report of the Committee of Missionary operations among the whites arid blacks, was read and adopted. (See appendix D.)
The report of the Committee on Bible and Publication Causes was read and adopted. (See appendix E.)
The report of the Committee on Ministerial Education was de- ferred until to-morrow, and Elder James S. Abbott was added to that Committee.
The report of the Committee on Sabbath-Schools was read and adopted. (See appendix F.)
The Committee on Temperance stated they had none to offer. Elder John Helbert was requested to report on Temperance on to-morrow.
The report of the Executive Board was read and adopted. (See appendix Gr.)
Resolved. That the Treasurer of the Association pay Elder L. L. Dewitt $24 00, for sixteen days, and Elder R. M. Thomas $21 00, for fourteen days, for Missionary work.
Adjourned until 2 o'clock.
Monday Evening — 2 o'clock.
The association met pursuant to adjournment.
The committee appointed last year to write a short biography of Elder T Tucker, offered their report, which was read and adopted. (See appendix H.)
The Committee on Nominations reported, and adopted. (See appendix I.)
The report of the finance committee was read and adopted. (See appendix J.)
Resolved, That this association suspend business on Tuesday morning, in or- der that the Bethel Bible and Colporteur Society hold their annual meeting.
Resolved, That the funds collected on Lord's day be equally devided be- tween the B. B. and C. Society, and the executive board to be disposed of as they think best.
On motion, adjourned, to meet after the meetings of the B. B. and C Society.
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Tuesday Morning, October 5th, 1858.
The Association was called to order, and the Moderator led in suitable exercises.
The committee on ministerial education then offered their report, which was read and adopted. (See appendix K.)
They also offered the following resolution :
Resolved, That this associaton is ready and willing to sustain one young min- ister in Howard College as soon as a suitable and needy one can be found.
The report of the committee on temperance was read and adopt- ed. (See appendix L.)
Resolved, That Elder R. Hollnian address the Association on the importance of Indian missions.
The report of the committee on Documents and Requests was read and adopted. (See appendix M.)
Resolved, That we suppress the reading of a request from the first and se- cond districts for want of time. Adjourned until 2 o'clock.
Met pursuant to adjournment — called for letters of correspon- dence.
The Committee on correspondence offered letters to the follow- ing bodies :
Letter to the State Convention. I Letter to the Bethlehem Association. " to Alabama Association. " to Cahaba "
" to Pine Barren " " to Liberty "
" to Bigbee River "
All of which were read and adopted.
Resolved. That the funds be appropriated as designated in the Treasurer's Report.
Elder W. Jacob Parker offered the following resolution, which was lost :
Resolved, That this association heartily approve the call for a meeting of the Sunday-School Union, at Memphis Tennessee, in order to fully organise said union, and adopt means to furnish the South-West with a suitable Bap- tist Sunday School Union.
Resolved, That the association do now suspend the regular order of busi- ness for the purpose of securing a voluntary agent from each Church of this body, to solicit funds in the bounds of his own Church and congregation, for the gratuitous distribution ofBibles and other religious books.
Resolved, secondly, That the sums raised be forwarded to brother W. J. Parker, at Jefferson, Alabama, who will return as many books as maybe re- quisite, so far as the funds sent from each church will pay.
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The following are agents :
Ebenezer L. B. Brooks.
Ulconush Jesse Scruggs
Horeb J. C. Foster.
Salem E.S.Cobb.
Rockville R. SI. Thomas.
Amity Lewis Pope.
Slagnoliia Jackson Daffin.
Slount Gilead Andrew Daflin.
Hopewell Franklin Chapman.
Nanafalia Thomas J. Barnes.
Union R. D.SIarshall.
Elim John Trawick.
New Hope Green Davis.
Friendship C. K. Finny, P. E. Kervin.
Shiloh Thomas H. Dunning.
Pisgah H. Adams.
Enon J. C. Slorgan.
Forest Spring J. D. Cowan
Liberty C.J. Miles.
Canaan J. Dunaway.
Linden D. B. Jackson.
Slount Pleasant W. J. Parker.
Spring Hill James Daughdrill.
Dayton L. D. Honeycut.
Providence S. Sladison.
Fellowship L. Simmons, L. J. Stewart
Bethel James A. Gamble.
Hebron J. Reeves.
Concord James S Abbot.
Boiling Spring Levi Parks
Resolved, That we unanimously tender our thanks to the members of Con- cord church and the citizens of the vicinity, for the kind and hospitable man- ner in which the association has been entertained during the session.
Resolved, That the clerk superintend the printing and distribution of 1000 copies of Slinutes, and receive $35 for his services.
Resolved, That the amount in the treasurer's hands, known as the associa- tion fund of $6:75, be paid to the clerk to aid in making up a deficiency. Con- cord church also donated $5 voluntarily.
Resolved, That the Slinutes of the B. B. and C. Society, be printed with ours, and they paying their proportionate share.
Resolved, That we abandon the present mode of holding district meetings and adopt the old one, holding only four during the year.
Resolved, That the district meeting to be held with the Pisgah church in January next, meet with said church on Friday, before the fifth Lord's day in January, 1859.
Resolved, That the Slinisters of this body be, and are, requested to hold a Ministers meeting, to meet in April, 1859, with the district meeting wherever it may convene.
The following committees were appointed to report at the next meeting of this body :
On the state of Religion. — J. C. Foster, H Creighton, and L. L.Dewitt.
On Missions of the Southern Baptist Convention. — J. S. Abbot, E. C. J. B. Thomas, andF. C.Lowry.
On Missionary operations amongst whites and blacks. — E. G. Talbert, W. F" Perkins, W. Fluker, A. Talbert, J. Reeves, John Talbert, A. Sale.
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BiMe awrf Publication Causes.— W. J. Parker, L. B. Law, L. J. Stewart.
On Ministerial Education.— H. Adams, N. Goodwyn, T. J.Barnes.
On Sabbath Schools— P. E. Rerun, L. D. Godbold, J. Scruggs.
Oh* Temperance.— J. W. Tucker, James Kelly, K. M. Thomas E. Hickson.
The next anniversary of this hody will meet with the Amity Church, Clark county, on Saturday before the first Lord's day in October, 1859.
There being no more business before the Association, it adjourn- ed. A hymn was sung, the parting hand extended ; prayer by brother W. J. Parker, and the delegates repaired to their homes.
LEVI PARKS, Moderator.
R. D. Marshall, Clerk.
ADDRESS OF THE MINISTERS OF THE ASSOCIATION.
LEVI PARKS Rehoboth Alabama-
J. ABBOT Rehoboth Alabama.
E. BAPTIST Dayton Alabama.
A. A. CONNELLA Spring Hill Alabama.
W. J. PARKER Jefferson Alabama'
F. C. LOWRY McKinly Alabama.
J. REEVES Liberty Hill Alabama.
W. REEVES Liberty Hill Alabama.
N. THOMAS Pine Hill Alabama.
H. CREIGHTON Grove Hill Alabama.
W. HILL Grove Hill Alabama.
N. GOODWYN . . x - .Choctaw Corner . . Alabama.
W. RUSSELL Coffeeville Alabama.
J. G. WILLIAMS Nanafalia Alabama.
B. W. HERRIN Pineville Alabama.
J. C. FOSTER Grove Hill Alabama.
L L. DEWITT Choctaw Corner. .Alabama.
R. HICKSON Clifton Alabama,
A. SALE Bethel Alabama.
H. ADAMS Pine Hill Alabama:
J. GREEN Shiloh Alabama.
R. M. THOMAS Bethel Ahbama.
J. TALBERT McKinly Alabama,
E. C. J. B. THOMAS McKinly Alabama.
A. J. STRINGER Jackson Alabama.
LICENTIATES.
T. H. BALL Jackson Alabama.
J. WESTBROOK Jefferson Alabama.
J. L. PALMER Coffeeville Alabama.
J. KELLY Shiloh Alabama.
J*. M. STUBBS Jackson Alabama.
C. J. MILES Sweet Water. . . .Alabama.
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The following are agents :
Ebenezer L. B. Brooks.
Ulconush Jesse Scruggs
Horeb J. C. Foster.
Salem E.S.Cobb.
Rockville R. M. Thomas.
Amity Lewis Pope.
Magnoliia Jackson Damn.
Mount Gilead Andrew Damn.
Hopewell Franklin Chapman.
Nanafalia Thomas J. Barnes.
Union R. D.Marshall.
Elim John Trawick.
New Hope Green Davis.
Friendship C. K. Finny, P. E. Kervin.
Shiloh Thomas H. Dunning.
Pisgah H. Adams.
Enon J. C. Morgan.
Forest Spring J. D. Cowan
Liberty C. J. Miles.
Caiman J. Dunaway.
Linden D. B. Jackson.
Mount Pleasant - W. J. Parker.
Spring Hill James Daughdrill.
Dayton L. D. Honeycut.
Providence S. Madison.
Fellowship L. Simmons, L. J. Stewart
Bethel James A. Gamble.
Hebron J. Reeves.
Concord James S Abbot.
Boiling Spring Levi Parks
Resolved, That we unanimously tender our thanks to the members of Con- cord church and the citizens of the vicinity, for the kind and hospitable man- ner in which the association has been entertained during the session.
Resolved, That the clerk superintend the printing and distribution of 1000 copies of Minutes, and receive $35 for his services.
Resolved, That the amount in the treasurer's hands, known as the associa- tion fund of $6:75, be paid to the clerk to aid in making up a deficiency. Con- cord church also donated $5 voluntarily.
Resolved, That the Minutes of the B. B. and C. Society, be printed with ours, and they paying their proportionate share.
Resolved, That we abandon the present mode of holding district meetings and adopt the old one, holding only four during the year.
Resolved, That the district meeting to be held with the Pisgah church in January next, meet with said church on Friday, before the fifth Lord's day in January, 1859.
Resolved, That the Ministers of this body be, and are, requested to hold a Ministers meeting, to meet in April, 1859, with the district meeting wherever it may convene.
The following committees were appointed to report at the next meeting of this body :
On the state of Religion. — J. C. Foster, H Creighton, and L. L.Dewitt. On Missions of the Southern Baptist Convention. — J. S. Abbot, E. C. J. B. Thomas, andF. C.Lowry.
On Missionary operations amongst whites and blacks. — E. G. Talbert, W. F* Perkins, W. Fluker, A. Talbert, J. Reeves, John Talbert, A. Sale.
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Bible and Publication Causes. — W. J. Parker, L. B. Law, L. J. Stewart.
On Ministerial Education. — H. Adams, N. Goodwyn, T. J. Barnes.
On Sabbath Schools. — P. E. Kervin, L. D. Godbold, J. Scruggs.
On*Temperance. — J. W. Tucker, James Kelly, K. M. Thomas E, Hickson.
The next anniversary of this body will meet with the Amity Church, Clark county, on Saturday before the first Lord's day in October, 1859.
There being no more business before the Association, it adjourn- ed. A hymn was sung, the parting hand extended ; prayer by brother W. J. Parker, and the delegates repaired to their homes.
LEVI PARKS, Moderator.
R. D. Marshall, Clerk.
ADDRESS OF THE MINISTERS OF THE ASSOCIATION.
LEVI PARKS Rehoboth Alabama-
J. ABBOT Rehoboth Alabama.
E. BAPTIST Dayton Alabama.
A. A. CONNELLA Spring Hill Alabama.
W. J. PARKER Jefferson .
F. C. LOWRY McKinly
J. REEVES Liberty Hill .
W. REEVES Liberty Hill .
N. THOMAS Pine Hill. . . .
Q H. CREIGHTON.
.Alabama'
.Alabama. Alabama.
.Alabama.
.Alabama.
. Grove Hill Alabama.
W. HILL Grove Hill Alabama.
N. GOODWYN . . , r. Choctaw Corner . . Alabama.
W. RUSSELL Coffeeville Alabama.
J. G. WILLIAMS Nanafalia Alabama.
B. W. HERRIN Pineville Alabama.
J. C. FOSTER Grove Hill Alabama.
L L. DEWITT Choctaw Corner. .Alabama.
R. HICKSON Clifton Alabama,
A. SALE Bethel Alabama.
H. ADAMS Pine Hill Alabama:
J. GREEN Shiloh Alabama.
R. M. THOMAS Bethel AUbama.
J. TALBERT McKinly Alabama,
E. C. J. B. THOMAS McKinly Alabama.
A. J. STRINGER Jackson Alabama.
LICENTIATES.
T. H. BALL Jackson Alabama.
J. WESTBROOK Jefferson Alabama.
J. L. PALMER Coffeeville Alabama.
J. KELLY Shiloh Alabama.
J. M. STUBBS Jackson Alabama.
C. J. MILES SweetWater. ...Alabama.
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STANDING ORDER OF BUSINESS.
1. Hear the Letters from the Churches, and make out the Roll.
2. Elect a Moderator and Clerk.
3. Extend the usual invitation to brethren.
4. Call for petitions from Churches wishing to unite.
5. Appoint the following Committees to report during the session.
1. To arrange the Preaching.
2. On Finance and Auditing.
3. On Documents and Requests.
4. On Nominations.
5. On Correspondence, and on any other subject that may require the la- bors of a committee during the session.
6. Call for Correspondence.
7. Have the Rules of Decorum read.
8. Call and correct the Roll.
9. Hear the Annual Report of the Executive Board, and refer it to such committee or committees as may be suitable.
10. Call for the Minutes of the district meetings, and refer them to the com- mittee on Documents and Requests.
11. Hear the Treasure's Annual Report, and refer it to the committee on Fiance and Auditing.
12. Call for reports of Committees in the order of their appointment.
13. Give the necessary instructions about appropriating the funds.
14. Appoint committees to report at the next session on the following sub- A\ jects :
/T\ 1 . On the state of Religion. /5\
^ 2. On the missions of the Southern Baptist Convention, (f
3. On our Missionary operations among the whites and blacks.
4. On the Bible and publication causes.
5. On Ministerial Education.
6. On Sabbath Schools.
7. On Temperance.
15. Hear Miscellaneous Resolutions.
16. Make arrangements for printing and distributing the Minutes.
17. Correct the Minutes and adjourn.
APPENDIX A
B. C. FOSTER in account with the Bethel Baptist Association.
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1857. Domestic Mission Funds — Received.
Oct. 5. Balance on hand at the last Association $343 54
Received from Financial Commmittee of last Association 157 12
Received from Collection on the Sabbath 54 05
Dec. 20. " from District meeting at Enon, by brother VV. Danzy 2 55
1858.
Jan. 30. Received from District meeting at Union, by brother D Bird 10 20
June 2. " from District meeting at Ulconusb, by brother J. A. Coate 21 70
Aug. 11. " from District meeting at Nanafalia, by brother J. Williams 27 35
Donated by Sandy Evens' est. by brother J. Talbert, 1 00
Sept. 18. Received from District meeting at Friendship, by brother G. Davis 5 00
Sept. 18. " from District meeting at Salem, by brother W. W. Slade 29 65
Total amount of this Fund Received §652 16
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1857. Domestic Mission Funds — Disbursed.
Oct. 5. Amount paid brother C. J. Miles, liy order of the Ex-Mission Board $54 00
1858.
Jan. 17. Amount paid brother J. P Vaughn, by order of the same. 16 50
Amount paid brother F Simmons Treasurer of B. B. and C. Society by or- der of the last Association 27 Oo
1858. Amount sent to State Convention by brother J. Talbert, by order of the
same 27 00
May 16. Amount paid brother L. L. Dewitt. by order of the Mission Board 52 50
July 16. Amount paid brother J. Talbert, liy order of tlie same 64 50
July 16. Amount paid brother L L. Dewitt, by order of the same 25 50
Sept. 4. Amount paid brother R. M Thomas, by order of the same 52 50
Sept. 13 Amount paid brother I.. L. Dewitt, by order of the same 36 00
Oct. 5. Amount paid brother R. M. Thomas, by order of the same 37 50
Oct. 5. Amount paid brother J. Talbert, by order of the same 27 00
1S57.
Oct. 5.
1857.
Oct. 5.
1857.
Oct. 5.
1858. Sept. 18.
1S57.
1857.
Oct. 5.
1857.
Oct. 5.
1857.
Oct. 5.
1857.
Oct. 5.
1857.
Oct. 5.
1858.
Jan. 30.
1858.
African Mission Funds — Received.
A balance of this fund on hand at last Association
Total amount of this Fund on hand
No African Mission funds disbursed — leaves on hand.
Total amount of this Fund Disbursed $420 00
Leaving a balance of this Fund on hand $232 16
Contingent Funds — Received,
Received from Financial Committee of last Association $76 80
Total amount of this Fund Received $76 80
Contingent Funds — Disbursed. Amount paid brother R. I). Marshall, by order of the Association $76 80
Bible Cause Funds — Received.
A balance on hand at tin last Association $19 00
Received from Financial Committee of la at Association 53 05
Received from District meeting at Frit ndship, by brother tj. Davis 7 40
Total amount of this Fund Received $79 45
Bible Cause Funds — Disbursed.
Amount paidbrotbi r L. Simmons, Treasurer of B. B. and ('. Society, by or- der of the Assoi union $72 10
Leaving a balance of this Fund on hand of - $7 40
Indian Mission Funds — Received.
Received from Financial Committee of last Association $12 50
Total amount of this Fund Received $12 50
Indian Mission Funds — Disbursed.
Amount sent to Convention by brother J. Talbert, by order of the Associa- tion $12 50
Total amount of this Fund disbursed $12 50
Foreign Mission Funds — Received.
Received from Financial Committee of last Association $3 00
Total amount of this Fund Received $3 00
Foreign Mission Funds — Disbursed.
Amount sent to Convention by brother Talbert, by order of Association. . . $3 00 Total amount of this Fund disbursed $3 00
Assoc ia t ion Fun ds — Rece i ved.
A balance on hand at the last Association $6 75
No disbursment of this Fund — leaves on hand $6 75
Colored Mission Funds — Received.
Received from District meeting at Union, by brother D. Bird 10
Total amount of this Fund received 10
No Colored Mission Funds disbursed — leaves on hand 10
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To the Moderator and Brethren of the Bethel Baptist Association: —
I herewith submit this my Annual Report as Treasurer of your body, from which you will perceive there is now in my hands to the credit of Domestic Mission the sum of $232: 16 ; and $6:75 Association funds ; 10 cents Colored mission funds ; 25 cents African mission funds, all of which is subject to your order. All of which is respectfullv submitted,
B. C. FOSTER, Treasurer of the Bethel Baptist Asssociation. The Finance Committee of last association received from Boiling Spring Church' Waine Co., by the hand of brother J. Talbert, for domestic mission, $25:65 ; for B. B andC. Society $21:25 ; from Horeb Church, by the hand of brother W. Hill, for domestic mission, $27:15 ; for the B. B. and C. Society $1:75, all of which was applied as per ordered.
B. C. FOSTER, one of the Committee. The Finance Committee have examined the Treasurer's Report and find it correct. J. A. GAMBLE, Chairman.
APPENDIX B REPORT ON THE STATE OF RELIGION.
Your committee appointed at your last session, to report on the state of reli- gion, report as follows :
This year has been signalized by an unusual awakening. We hear from all parts of our country of a deeper interest manifested than heretofore, and large additions to our chu,rches throughout the different states, although some por- tions of our own bounds have had but few additions ; yet there seems to be a deeper interest taken in the churches on the subject of religion.
There is a general awakening up amongst the Baptist with regard to their pe- culiarities on points of doctrine, ordinances and church government. Pray- er meetings are more commmon than usual and better attended. Sabbath Schools are claiming more attention, aud many are in successful operation, where they were heretofore neglected. The Lord is making rich displays of his grace and power. There is one feature in the work of the revivals of the present year which demonstates the truth of the Scripture, that the Lord's hand is not shortened that he cannot save, or his ear heavy that he cannot hear.
Iu taking hold of a class of people of whom but few have been brought into our Churches for the last few years, the middle aged aud those turned in life, and many quite aged have been the subjects of God's mercy ; so far it has been a year of remarkable occurrence. Our country is crowned with plenty. The fruits of the season are abundant; our whole country, unusually healthy, and most of all, the wonderful out-pouring of God's spirit.
JOHN TALBERT, Chairman.
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APPENDIX C.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE MISSIONS OF
THE SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION.
Your Committee are of opinion, that the duty of the churches of Christ, to engage in missionary effort for the spread of the Gospel, is so clearly set forth in the great commission, and so fully enforced by the teaching of the Apostles, to whom that commission was directly given, as well as by the united example of the Apostolic churches, that no church or christians can claim exemption from engaging in the work of missions without incurring the displeasure of the King in Zion.
Nor can he, whose long cherished and closely cultivated habits of Parsimo- ny, have dried up the natural benevolence of his heart, excuse himself on the
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plea that his conscience does not condemn him for withholding his influence and his means from the missionary enterprise, and therefore he is under no obliga- tion to aid in this work. For it is a well established fact that conscience in no case determines what is right or wrong, but its office is simply to require us to do what our judgment has decided to be right, and to abstain from what our understanding has pronounced icrong.
Hence, it follows, that conscience to guide us right, must be under the di- rection of a correctly informed understanding. And as the Bible is the only safe teacher in matters of christian faith and practice, and was given by inspiration " That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." We must, with minds unbiased by preconceived opinions of duty. come io this word of truth which eminated from the fountain of wisdom, and receive and practice its teachings with au eye single to the glory of God, and the advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom, though in so doing, we may of- ten find it necessary to repel the suggestions of the natural heart, that "dis- cerneth not the things of the Spirit."
And by consulting the New Testament, we may learn that the Apostles in- structed "the churches planted by them, that it was their duty to send out the Ministers to preach the Gospel to the destitute in regions beyond them. Hence Paul said to the Corinthians, 2nd cor. 10th chap., 14, 15 and 16 verses. " We are corneas far as you also in preaching the Gospel of Christ, not boasting of thiugs without our measure, that is of other men's labors, but having hope when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, to preach the Gospel in regions beyond you, and the Apostle pre- dicated the obligations of the Corinthians to assist him, pecuniarily, while preaching in regions beyond them, on the grounds, that his temporal wants (while preachiug to them, and laboring to establish their . Church,) were all supplied by the christian liberality of other Churches, — saying, " I robbed oth- er Churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. And when I was pre- sent with you and wanted, I was chargable to no man, for that which was lacking to me, the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied " — 2nd cor. 11 chap. 8 and 9 verse. And writing to the Phillippians at the 4th chap. IS and 16 verse. Paul acknowledged their liberality to him as follows : " Now ye Phillippians, know also, that in the beginning of the Gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no Church communicated with me as concerning, giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica, ye sent once and again unto my necessities." And in order to show that this system of missionary labor eminated from God, we read at the 2nd, 3rd and 4th verses of the 13thchap., of Acts— concerning the Church at Antioch, "As they minis- tered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, separate me Barnabas and Saul, for the work whereinto I have called them, and when they had fast- ed and prayed, and laid their hands on them they (the church) sent them away. So they being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed into Salucia, and from thence they sailed to Cypres." And after they had made an extensive mis- sionary tour, (an account of which is given at length in the 13th and 14th chapters of Acts,) from Attalia, " they sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God, for the work which they fulfilled, and when they were come (to Antioch) and had gathered in the church toge- ther, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles."
In order that the Christian Union contemplated in the great scheme of sal- vation might be strengthened in our churches, and by developing the resources of our Baptist brethren, and concentrating them in a systematic plan of bene- volence, to more efficiently carry on the work of Evangelization, as required in the Gospel commission, and enforced by the example of the Apostles and primitive Churches.
THE SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION WAS ORGANISED,
And while the friends of missions, regret that so little has been done in this
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great work, they rejoice in the success uniformly attending the efforts that have been made for the extension of the Kingdom of Christ.
The domestic board, at Marion, Alabama, published a report of their opera- lions for the year ending April 1st, 1858, in the Home and Foreign Journal, from which we learn, that during the year they had 13d ministers and agents in the field ; 36 of whom were laboring among the Indians in the far west, and from the reports received from the Indian misssion field we learn, that the success of our missionaries in that department has been of the most encourag- ing character, and the stereotyped declaration that the red men of the forest could not be christianized and civilized, has been demonstrated to be false. There are 14 Churches among the Creeks; 13 native preachers, 2000 members and 113 baptisms reported for the year, and one native preacher ordained. The Choc- taws have 8 churches, 550 members, and added by baptism 82. And so far as our labors have progressed among the Cherokees, the prospect is encouraging. And those nations above mentioned are not only improving in morality and true Religion, but they are also rapidly advancing in the mechanic arts, agriculture. education and civil government. May God more abundantly prosper the ef- forts put forth for the physical and moral improvement of our red brethren, and enlarge our benevolence in that direction, until it comes up to the mea- sure of ourobligation to them, is our sincere prayer.
The Domestic Board sustained missions wholely or in part in all the South- ern States and California. And, although the board, at the date of their re- port, had not received full returns from all our missionaries, they were enabled to communicate the heart cheering intelligence, that 1958 had been baptised during the year by our missionaries, or in connection with their labors. The missionaries supplied 300 Churches and stations, constituted 20 Churches, or- dained 11 ministers and 37 Deacons, commenced 27 meeting houses, and fin- ished^ : attended 1479 prayer-meetings, made 6800 pastoral visits, and distri- buted 30,000 pages of tracts. They also reported 4 sabbath schools, 379 teachers and 4060 pupils ; and 68 Bible classes, and 846 pupils ; and 12 teach- ers, and 68 pupils professed conversion; and that 35 young men connected with the mission Church are preparing to enter on the work of the ministry. Our foreign missionaries have had many discouragments to contend with in their fields of labor ; and while tbey have neither anticipated nor realized the suc- cess attending the labors of the home department, they have worked with patience, zeal, and self-denial, worthy of their high calling ; and the Lord of the harvest has sanctified their labors to the salvation of a goodly number of the benighted heathen, 200 added by baptism. And as an incentive to missionary effort, and to show7 that our labor " is not in vain in the Lord," we will state, that from the report of the board of mission of the New Jersey Baptist State Convention, for the year 1853, we gather the following significant facts: From the constitution of the first Baptist Church in the State to the time their convention engaged in active operations, embracing 142 years, there were but 55 Churches, and 3973 members ; and in 24 years of systematic effort, those 55 Churches were increased to 106, with 13511 members, and the whole num- ber of baptisms reported in 142 years, were 9,130, and in 24 years, 17302 bap- tisms.
Your committee think, that two facts are clearly established : first, that the duty of all Churches and christians to labor for the spread of the Gospel is clearly taught in the New Testament ; and secondly — that God has set the seal of his approbation on the efforts that bave been made, in the abundant success he has granted his missionaries in winning souls to Christ. Yet little, very little has been done by Baptists for the cause of missions compared with what they might have done had their liberality been equal to their resources.
Take for example our own Alabama, the most liberal of all the Southern States, in missionary contributions. The whole denomination in the state with over 50,000 members, during the last financial year, paid for domestic and In-
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dian missions aliittle over $5000, or 10 cents per annum for each member. Yet small as this estimate is, it is much above the estimate for the whole South. According to the most reliable information we have on the subject, there are more than half a million Baptists in the Southern States, all of whom paid something over $36,000 for Domestic and Indian missions, to which add $36,000 for foreign missions, and the aggregate amount paid by all the Baptists in the Southern States per annum, for all our missionary enterprise, is about $72,000. This estimate is confined to the mission of the Southern Baptist Convention.
In conclusion, dear brethren of the Bethel Association, permit us to urge upon you, and through you, upon your respective chinches, the importance of sustaining your Southern Convention in its missionary efforts, and in view of the little now being done, to give the word of life and send the living minis- ter to the destitute in our own and heathen lands. Let us redouble our ef- forts, and greatly enlarge our contributions : and of the abundance with which the God of missions has blessed us, liberally supply the necessities of the dear brethren, who have sacrificed all the endearments of home and kindred, " not counting their lives dear unto themselves." That (by preaching the Gospel to the far of heathens, the red man of the forest, or the poor and des- titute in the domestic field,) they may win souls to Christ. And will you not pray to the Lord of the harvest to send more laborers into the vineyard. To wnich end may God inspire our pastors with that zeal in Ins cause, and ardent desire for the salvation of sinners, that will free them from the fear of man, and prompt them to declare the whole counsel of Heaven on the imperative duty of christians to conseciate themselves and their means to the cause oft heir divine Saviour. Then, and not till then, will our missionary enterprise be se- conded by a liberality equal to their important bearing on the interest of the souls of men. Then will the Church come up from the wilderness, leaning on the arm of her beloved, arrayed in her beautiful garments, " Fair as the Moon, clear as the Sun, and as terrible as an army with banners." Respectfully submitted,
October, 1858. W. J. PARKER, Chairman.
APPENDIX D.
The Committee on Missionary operations among the whites and black, beg leave to report that we believe all the information we could give will be re- ceived through the Executive Board, which will report on that subject. Respectfully submitted,
J. G. WILLIAMS. N. MALONE. JESSE SCRUGGS.
APPENDIX E. REPORTON BIBLE AND PUBLICATION CAUSES.
When we compare the various objects of benevolence under your patronage with each other, we think the Bible cause is the greatest of all, and that upon which we may rely with the greatest certainty of doing good. This being the case, all should feel themselves called upon to do something in this great and good cause. This can be effectually done by contributing according to our ability to our B. B. and C. Society. Thus by purchase and circulation of the Holy Scriptures, we shall materially assist those who are engaged in printing them. We have no statistics, and therefore, cannot give any.
In noticing our publication interest, we are pleased to learn from the last annual report of the S. B. P. Society, that their prospects are brightening, which the following extract will show :
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The publication of the society during the last year, comprise twelve new and original works, together with the re-publication of nine of their former Books. Making in all thirty-six editions, amounting to 27761 volumes, con- taining 4546620 pages. The amount of volumes issued by the society from the first, is '222175, containing 82775666 pages. Other important works are now in press or on hand awaiting publication. The above works are highly recommended as suited to the wants of our people. Who can tell the moral and religious influence of such books on our children if early placed in their hands and they encouraged to read them ? It has been said a man may be known by the company he keeps, and it may be said, with equal truth, he may be known by the quality of the books he reads. This society is indus- triously performing its appropriate work. Let us be diligent in doing ours.
We recommend the Commission, and the Home and Foreign Journal, as in- dispensable to proper knowledge of our missionary operations. We, also, re- commend the books and tracts, published by the South-Western Publishing House, in Nashville, Tennessee, as a wholesome religious literature. Respectfully submitted,
J. KEEVES, Chairman.
APPENDIX F.
The Committee appointed at your last Association, to report on Sabbath Schools, report the following :
Your Committee are of the opinion that one great reason why there is so little done in the bounds of our Association, in the way of organizing and con- ducting well regulated Sabbath Schools, and thus bringing up the rising gene- ration in the nurture and admonition of the Lord — is because the brethren in the Pulpit are, as they have long been, so near asleep, to this, one of their most important duties. We think, however, that we have discovered more feeling in almost all the Churches on the Sabbath School question the past year than any previous year; yet we are scarcely doing a tithe of what we ought to do in this direction ; we all acknowledge the utility of sabbath schools — when we see even men with gray hairs on their heads, as some of your committee have done this year, come forward asking for Church membership — saying, my first impressions were in your sabbath schools. Who will deny their importance as a means of grace? WTe, as a committee, would then speak through you to our ministering brethren — and say, " spare not" pains or trouble, to interest every congregation with whom you meet, and to whom you minister, on this important subject. Thus we urge you brethren, from the fact that we consi- der this an important matter, and your position a fearful and responsible one. Fear, brethren, lest the blood of the rising generation — the hope of our great country, be required at your hands. H. ADAMS, Chairman.
APPENDIX O. REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE
BOARD.
Your Executive Board, appointed at the last meeting of the Association, ask leave to make the following report :
The first meeting of the board was on the 16th of January, at which time we passed a resolution, that we would not be bound to pay for any missionary la- bor, unless the laborer was directly appointed by the board ; and also, that we would only make appointments Quarterly, requesting our Missionaries to make reports at the end of each quarter ; at this meeting we apppointed the brethren, L. L. Dewitt and R. M. Thomas, for one quarter, ending on the 17th of April, requesting them to labor in the most destitute places. We also, appointed brother John Talbert, to supply a destitution in the Post Oak country, below McKinly. The board had its second meeting on the 17th of April, at which time we re-appointed the same three brethren above named,
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to continue their labors for another quarter, ending on the 17th of July brother Talbert was requested to extend his labors to more destitute fields.
The board had its third meeting on the 17th of July, and being so well pleased with the seeming efficiency and industry of our missionaries, as set forth in their several reports, the board unhesitatingly re-appointed all three of them to continue their labors until the meeting of the Association.
The board had its fourth meeting on the 2nd day of October inst., which clos- es thelabors of the board. It will be seen, then, that the board have kept three missionaries constantly in the field since our first meeting, and which embraces about eight months and a half, during this time, brother L. L. Dewitt, reports, that he has spent seventy-six days in the service of the board, and has baptised thirty-two persons.
Brother R. M. Thomas, reports that he has spent fifty-nine days in the ser- vice of the board, and has baptised ;5f> persons, and that one meeting house has been erected in his field of labor.
Brother John Talbert, reports that he has spent sixty-one days in the service oftheboord. Our missionaries have all received payment, according to con- tract, for the service thus rendered, by drafts on the treasurer for the same. All of which is respectfullv submitted,
E. G. TALBERT, for the Board.
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APPENDIX H.
The Committee appointed at your last meeting, to report a short biography for Elder Trueheart Tucker, reports the following :
ELDER TRUEHEART TICKER.
That man of God, whose name stands at the head of this biography, and whose praise is in all the Churches, was emphatically a good man — one that •' feared God and eschewed evil." All of piety that any biographer can claim for his subject, may be claimed for him. Truly an "example of believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity" — " blameless, vigi- lant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality." Useful in his day as a min- ister of the Gospel of the glorious Son of God — •' not given to wine. No striker, not greedy of filthy lucre, but patient, not a brawler, not covetous."
All these christian characteristics centerd in this man — and were promiuent through his whole christian pilgrimage.
Brother Tucker, was born in Virginia, in or near the City of Richmond, May the IHth 1788. Removed to Georgia in early life, where he and his wife were baptised by that servant of Christ and prince of Apostles, Jesse Mercer, both on the same day into the fellowship of the Church, now known as the Baptist Church of Christ, at Bethesda, Green County, June, 1811. Soon after, he, with his faimily, removed to this state, and settled in Clarke County, near Suggsville. It was here he commenced exercising as a christian man, in pub- lic, at a school house in a sabbath morning prayer meeting, there being very few ministsrs in the country, and little or no preaching. From thence he re- moved to Wilcox County, near Clifton — here he lived when he and his wife, with a few others, were constituted, the Friendship Baptist Church, now a member of this body, December 21st, 1822, Elders Solomon Perkins, Aaron Compton, and Jonathan Anderson, Presbeytery.
By this Church brother Tucker was licensed to preach the Gospel, Satur- day "before the 2nd sabbath in August, 1823. About this time he removed to Marengo County, near Shiloh. Here we find dates at fault with each other — the Church book says he was ordained the 2nd Lord's day in November, lg-23 — his Credentials, signed by Elders S. Perkins and William Fluker, November, 2nd Lord's day, 1824.
Brother Tucker was elected the Pastor of his Church, March 1826, and continued to serve them as pastor for ten years without interruption. He
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served them again in 1837 — again in connexion with brother L. L. Dewitb who was then coming into the ministry, 1845 — again alone in 1852. We find this man of God assisting in the constitution of the Church at Shiloh, November 2dth, 1828. Again, ordaining their Deacons June 20th, 1829. This Church, he also served as pastor 7 years of his ministerial life, closing his con- nexion with them, but the year before he died. Other Churches he served as pastor, but for the want of the use of the several Church books in which all these tacts stand recorded, your Committee is not now prepared to say how long— and when.
This aged servant of God fell asleep in Christ, whom he had long loved and long served, at his residence, near Shiloh, Marengo County, October the 9th, L856, leaving a large circle of friends and relations to mourn his departure. "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord." H. ADAMS, Chairman.
APPENDIX J. The Financial Committee beg leave to report as follows :
For Printing Minutes $75 40
" Domestic Mission 48 25
" Bethel Bible and Colporteur Society 19 35
" Indian Mission 10 00
" Foreign Misssion 3 50
" African Mission 4 60
" Education Fund 1 00
" Colored Mission 14 50
" Collected on Sabbath 47 40—224 10
All of which is respectfully submitted,
LEWIS SIMMMONS. B. C. FOSTER. JAMES A. GAMBLE.
We, the Auditing Committee, have examined the Treasurers Report of the Bethel Baptist Association, and find it correct.
F LEWIS SIMMONS-
JAMES A. GAMBLE.
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APPENDIX I. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS.
Brother James S. Abbot, to preach the introductory sermon, brother J. C. Foster, his Alternate. Brother E. C. J. B. Thomas, to preach the missionary sermon, brother L. L. Dewitt, his Alternate.
To Compose the Executive Board.— J. S. Dickinson, E. B. Gwinn, William Gates, A. J. Benson, and E. Cobb.
Treasurer of the Association — B. C. Foster.
Delegates to the State Convention.— Brethren E. G. Talbert, John Talbert, W.J. Parker, L. B. Lan*>, Levi Parks, A. Holmes, N. Goodwyn, J. G. Wil- liains, R. D. Marshall, W. F. Perkins, E. J. Parmer.
Delegates to the Alabama Association.— Brethren J. Reeves, and L. Parks,
Cahaba Association.— Brethren F. C. Lowery, John Talbert, J. A. Gamble, W. J. Parker, and J. L. Stewart.
Pine Barren Association— -N. Goodwyn, H. Adams, and P. E. Kervin.
Bi<rbee Association. — W. J- Parker, S. Madison, J. Q. Lipscomb, and James Daughdrill.
Liberty Association.— J. G. Williams, N. Malone, J. C. Foster, E. Parmer, E. S. Thorninton, and James Kelly.
Bethlehem Association— Wm. Hill, J. C. Foster, and B. C. Foster. All of which is respectfully submitted,
THOMAS J. BARNES, Chairman
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APPENDIX K. REPORT ON MINISTERIAL EDUCATION.
We have much reason to be thankful to God, for the success that lias at- tended the efforts of Howard College, in preparing young men for the work of the ministry. That institution is annually sending forth young men, who are nearly all efficient and working men ; and nearly all, thank God, do not read but preach the Gospel. The plan on which that institution is founded is cer- tainly a most excellent one. During nine months in the year, from October till the first of July, they are kept at close study. This gives them a good dis- cipline of mind and a fund of valuable knowledge. From the first of July till the last of September, comprising the three months in which most of the County Churches hold their protracted meetings, these young ministers scatter all over the State, and travel and preach wherever an opportunity offers. This is attended with many and great advantages. It builds up their health, keeps alive in their own bosoms the spirit of the Gospel, gives them practical know- ledge, acquaintance with the country, &c. — and last, but not least, accus- tom them to preaching without a copy-book in the Bible before them. Hence these young men must leave college with well disciplined minds, practical knowledge, and a ready talent for extemporaneous preaching. And even now while their principal business is to prepare for future usefulness, and before they are qualified to take the charge of Churches, they are exerting a great and good infl«ence. Their influence among the other students in our beloved Howard College is very great. During the past two sessions there was a daily prayer meeting among the students of that institution, and many were converted to God. And the numbers who have been, and are, annually being converted to God, through the instrumentality of their vacation labors, eternity alone can reveal. J. S. ABBOT, Chairman.
APPENDIX L. REPORT ON TEMPERANCE. Dear Brethren : — Being hastily appointed to present something to this body on the subject of temperance, in the way of an apology, I would say, that other duties have so occupied my time that I have had but a few minutes to give to the subject. It is expected that I will either report favorably or unfavorably with regard to the progress of temperance since our last annual meeting; as I have been traveling extensively, I feel satisfied from my own knowledge and from the best information that I can get, that there has been an improvement in favor of temperance principles. There has been but little doing for some time in the way of organizing societies, or in legislation to contend against the monster evil. Yet our Churches have felt, to some extent at least, the weighty responsibility resting upon them as lights to the world, and have be- stired themselves more diligently in improving the moral and religious condi- tion of our Churches and country. There are at this time a great number of our young people members of our Churches, who are the promise of our coun- try, and as the future prosperity of our Churches depend, with the help of God, on the moral training and scriptural teaching of our young members, I would, through this body respectfully urge upon the ministry, to embrace every opporiunity of rebuking in their sermons, or in the discipline of the Churches, and on all suitable occasions, the unscriptural use of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, and that this body earnestly request the Churches, especially the old members of the Churches, as there are so many young professors amongst us, to use their influence by example, by a Godly walk and conversation, by brother- ly admonitions, by scriptural teaching, and by abstaining from every thing which would lead our young members in the way of temptation.
Respectfully submitted, JOHN TALBERT.
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APPENDIX M. KEPOET ON DOCUMENTS AND REQUESTS. Your Committee would recommend tbe Association to grant the requests of Amity Church for the next meeting of the Association.
A document from the First District, and a document and request from the Second District have come up to this Association, the proper consideration of which might be of benefit to the Association if time would permit, other- wise we would recommend the Association to omit them. Respectfully submitted,
J. REEVES, Chairman.
MINUTES
OF THE
SIXTH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE
BETHEL BIBLE AND COLrORTElR SOCIETY.
The sixth annual meeting of the Bethel Bible and Colporteur Society, held its session with the Concord Baptist Church, in Dallas county, Alabama, on Tuesday the 5th day of October, 1858.
Brother JohnTalbert in the chair, and W. Jacob Parker acting as Secreta- ry. The meeting was opened by singing and prayer.
The following representatives were present — from Providence, S. Madison ; Pisgah. II. Adams; Amity, L. Pope ; Concond, W. D. King, and A. Talbert.
The Society proceeded to elect John Talbert, President, and W. Jacob Parker, .Secretary.
The President appointed S. Madison, L. J. Stewart, and J. Reeves, to nomi- nate tbe balance of the officers of the Society. An opportunity being given, the following persons became annual members, by the payment id' one dollar each, viz : J. Reeves, A. Shuffield, L. J. Stewart, W. Driving, L. S. Parks, R D. Marshall, A. Talbert, R. M. Thomas, S. Madison, J. S. Abbot, Sa rail A. Tal- bert, Miss Narcissa Holmes, Mrs. Mary Holmes, Mrs. Rachel Talbert, Mrs. Martha Richardson, Mrs. J. A. Perkins, Mary E. Talbert, John Talbert, J. Dunaway, Mrs. Martha Tucker.
The following brethren became life members by the payment often dollars each : Lewis Simmons, W. F. Perkins, and John Kelly. The following per- sons paid the sums annexed to their names — L. B. Laue, $5 ; D. B. Jackson. $.">: Levi Parks, $5 ; W. Jacob Parker, $5 ; N. Goodwyn, $5 ; Jackson Daffin, $5 ; John C. Foster, $5; Jesse Holmes, $5; B. R. Thomas, $5; A. Talbert, $5; Lewis Pope, $5 ; L. B. Brooks $5 ; (Mrs. Josphine Foster, $2:50 ;) Mrs. Holms, $2:50; E. G. Talbert, &50 ; brother Sample, $1; L. L. Parks. $j ; brother W. F. Perkins, $22 40, collected at Rehoboth, and brother P. E. Kervin, pledged $5.
Report of the Board of Managers, approved, Appendix A.
A proposition being made to raise one hundred dollars to purchase books for gratuitous distribution. The following amounts were pledged : Levi Parks, $10; Lewis Simmons, $10 ; E. G. Talbert, $10; L. Godbokl, $10; Lewis Pope, $20 ; N. B. Lasceere, $15; "W. B. Modawell $5 ; S. Chapman, $2:50 ; E. W. Abrams, $2:50 ; F. C. Lowery, $25.
The following resolution was adopted :
Resolved, That our Colporteur be authorized to solicit persons to become members of this Society and collect funds and report to the board of managers.
The Committee on nominations recommended the acting board of managers. J.I. Westbrook, W. L. Kelly, W. Simmons, John Daaghdrill, and W. Jacob Parker — for Treasurer, Lewis Simmons; for vice President, First District,
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R. M. Thomas; Second District, John G. Williams; Third District, A. A. Con- nella; Fourth District, Levi Parks — all of which were approved.
Treasurer's Report, read and approved, Appendix B.
Brethren J. Talbert.E. G. Talbert, L. Parks, L. B. Lane, J. S Abbot, and W. J. Parker, were appointed to represent our .Society in the Alabama Bible Society, and .$ HI appropriated to said Society.
The Secretary was instructed to have our Minutes published with those of the Bethel Association and pay our proportion of the expense.
All unfinished business was refer ed to the board of managers, and the Socie- ty adjourned to meet with the next Association. W. JACOB, Secretary.
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APPENDIX A.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF B. B. AND C. SOCIETY.
Your Board of Managers have by their depository agent, W. J. Parker, pur- chased since your last annual meeting at catalogue prices, from the Southern Baptist Publication Society, to the value of $614:85, tin; actual cost of which was 416:29; of which amount $60:29 was paid before your last annual meeting, and the balance of $356,00 has been paid since. We have also purchased of Craves, Marks & Co., at catalogue prices, books to the value of $625:16, the actual cost being $436:35, of which amount we have paid 373:60, leaving a balance due them of $62:75. We have also bought of the Alabama Bible Society, books amounting to $10:73, to which add $20:77 previously due that Society, making our indebtedness to them $31:50. The aggregate amount of books purchased during the year at catalogue prices is $1244:14, at an actual cost t<> the Society of $848:90. The amount of discount allowed us on the whole amount, $395:24.
Tiie following amounts of books have been sold during the Associational year ;
Brother S. Madison, our Colporteur, has sold books to the value of. .$64") 73 W. Jacob Parker, our Dep. Agent, has sold books to the value of. 164 90 Brother E. M. Thomas, " " " " " ... 90 00
Showing an aggregate of sales amounting to $900 63
Our Agent reports-books in the Depository to the value of. 194 70
In the hands of S. Madison unsold " " 135 67
In the hands of R. M. Thomas unsold " " 62 55
Whole amount of books on hand $392 95
Amount due the Depository $ 8 30
Cash in the hands of Depository Agent 40 15
In the hands of Treasurer 3 30
The whole assets of the Society amounts to $444 67
While its liabilities are as follows :
Due brother Madison on salary for services rendered $34 32
Due Depsoitory Agent on Commission 26 89
Due Graves, Ma rks & Co., on books purchased 62 75
Due Ala. Bible Society on Bibles sold 20 77
Due " " Society on books purchased July 31, 1858.. 10 73 — $3150
155 46
Leaving a balance in favor of Society in books and cash $289 21
Brother Madison reported two and a half months services between the As- sociation and the 1st of January, and four months since that time, for which service we allowed him, including his traveling expenses, $7:27 ; due him last Association, $233:02, and have paid him $198 70, leaving a balance
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due him as stated above. "We have also paid brother R. M. Thomas $18, be- ing 20 per cent on books sold by him — and the whole amount due on deposits by agents for commissions on books since your last annual meeting, is $124:41, of which $96:45 has been paid, leaving a balance due him as above stated.
In Conclusion, your committee would urge upon the Churches of the Asso- ciation, the importance of ourenterprize, and also the necessity of aiding by their contributions, so as to enable your Board of Managers to continue their Colporteur in the field. For you see, dear brethren, from the above state- ment of your finances, our Colporteur can notlonger be employed without your liberal aid. " Will you come forward to our sssistannce or shall we dispense with the valuable services of Brother Madison as Colporteur." Respectfully submitted.
W. JACOB PARKER, Secretary of the Board.
APPENDIX. B. Lewis Simmons, in account with the Bethel Bible and Colporteur Society :
1857. DR.
Oct, 3. Amount on hand $ 236 90
Oct. 5. Amount paid by the Treasurer Association at Jefferson.... 72 00
Amount of public collection on Sabbath 27 00
From Annual Members 36 00
Dec. 28. Received of Depository Agent 189 15
1858.
April 15. Received from Depository Agent 41 90
June 12. Received from Depository Agent 215 32
Sept. 27. Received of Depository Agent 364 70
Amount Received 1182 97
Amount Disbursed 1179 67
Balance on hand $ 3 30
1858. CR.
Oct. 13. This amount paid Depository Agent $ 100 00
Nov. 1. Paid Dep. Agent for Ala, Bible Soci'ty due on Bibles 60 00
Nov. 1. Amount donated to Alabama Bible Society 25 00
Nov. 10. Paid Depository Agent by order of the Board 1 82 00
Nov. 21. " " " " " 12(1 00
April 15. " " " " " ...100 00
June 12. Amount due G. P. Kelly for freight and charges on books
from Oct. 3, '58 to date 55 47
June 12. Paid Depository Agent on Commission 53 45
June 12. Paid R. D. Marshall for Minutes 9 60
June 12. Paid Depository Agent by order of the Board 108 85
July 10. Paid Depository Agent for Graves & Co 50 00
July 4. " " " " 20 00
Sept. 17. " " " " 50 00
Sept. 17 " " " Smith and W 3 00
Sept. 27. Paid Depository Agent for S.Madison 198 70
Paid Depository Agent on Commission 43 00
Total amount $1179 67
Respectfully submitted,
LEWIS SIMMONS, Treasurer.
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