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ALABAMA BAPTTST mSJORJCU. SOOFTV
niNUTES
OK THE
EIGHTIETH ANNUAL SESSION
or THE
BETHEL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION
/ HELD WITH
Catherine Church, Catherine, Wilcox County, Ala.,
SEPTEMBER 21, 22 AND 23, 1900.
OFFICERS:
Daniel J. Meador, Moderator Myrtlewood, Ala
John E. Hecker, Clerk Linden, Ala.
William K. Thomas, Treasurer Nanafalia, Ala.
The Next Session of this Association will be held with Thomaston Baptist Ohui-ch, at Thomaston, Marengo County, Ala., on
Friday Before the Fourth Sabbath in Sept. 1901.
Montgomery, Ala.
ALABAMA BAPTIST PRINT.
1900.
ORDER OF BUSINESS— SESSION 1901.
1. Temporary Organization.
2. Introductory Sermon— Eld. W. H. DeWitt; Eld. J. L. Tucker, alter-
nate.
3. Enrollment of Messengers.
4. Permanent Organization.
5. Appointment of committees to report during the session —
On Finance.
On Nominations. Documents and Requests.
On Religious Services during the session.
6. Report on Aged and Infirm Ministers, their Wives and Children — W.
A*. Vice, S. P. Jackson, G. W. Barkley.
7. Report on Religious Periodicals— G. W. Webb, J. W. Buck, H. C.
Rikard.
8. Report on Bible and Colportage work — J. M. Roo.en, J. B.Perkins,
J. A. Cammack.
9. Report on Ministerial and General Education — L. C. DeWitt. W. B.
Glass, W F. Westbrook
SATURDAY.
10. Report on Temperance — Joe Lambert, J. Q. Bailey, W F. Ray.
11- Report on Institute work — G L. Sutton, W V. Vice, Coats Fluker.
12. Report on Orphanage— W. B. Crosby, A. C Thomas, Robt Mayton.
13. Report on State Missions— W. H. DeWitt. H. Dunaway, W. F.
Setzler.
14. Report on Home Missions — J. W. Sandlin, G. L. Sutton, C. W.
Blunt.
15. Report on Foreign Missions — J. L. Tucker, H.C.Thomas, V. H.
Caine.
16. Report on Religious State of the Churches — W. K. Thomas, C. H.
Miller. W. L. Walston.
17. Report on Sabbath Schools— J. Q Bailey, P. B. Glass, J. S. Coats.
18. Report of Committee on Finance.
19. Report of Committee on Nominations, Documents and Requests.
20. Report of Treasurer.
21. Report of Executive Committee.
22. Appointment of Standing Committees.
23. Appointment of Executive Committee.
24. Reading Minutes.
25. Adjournment.
Meet at 9:30, adjourn at 12:30; meet at 2.30, adjourn at 5:00, Fifteen minutes at opening of each session for miscellaneous business.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
Eld. J. M. Roden, Chairman: Eld. J. W. Sandlin, Eld. W. H. DeWitt,
A. R. Oxford, J. E. Hecker, D. J. Meador.
CONSTITUTION OF BETHEL BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.
Article 1. The Association shall be composed of members chosen by the different churches of our union, who, upon producing their credentials, shall be entitled to seats; and the members so chosen and convened, shall continue to be known by the name of The Bethel Baptist Association.
Art. 2. The Association shall, annually, upon convening, proceed to choose from the members present, a Moderator, to preside and keep order; and a Clerk to make correct entries and minutes of their proceedings ; and in their deliberations, they shall be governed by the rules of decorum an- nexed to this Constitution ; which, however, the Association may alter and amend as they may think proper.
Art. 3. This Association shall have no p wer to interfere with, or in- fringe upon the internal rights and gospel privileges f the churches, but shall be considered merely as an advisory council and convening of the churches of the union ; first, to learn and make known the state of each other's affairs, and to dispense the word of God to the attending congrega- tion. Secondly, to consult upon and dispense such information, direction and advice, touching the affairs of the kingdom, as may tend to preserve the peace and promote the happiness of the churches, and extend the fur- therance of the glorious gospel of the Redeemer Thirdly, to hold corre- spondence with sister Associations ; and, in the whole, to strengthen and perpetuate the union and prosperity of the churches, to the edifying the body of Christ.
Art. 4. The churches shall transmit to each annual session of the Asso- ciation written communications, specifying the names of messengers, the number baptised, received by letter, dilmissed, excommunicated, restored, and deceased since the last Association ; together, also, with the whole number then in fellowship
Art. 5. Each of the churches in our union shall be entitled to send three members; and any church failing to represent herself, shall state the rea- son to the next session.
Art 6. New churches may be admitted into the union by messengers, bearing letters of application; if, upon examination, they be. found orderly and orthodox, the Moderator shall make known their admission by giving the messenger the right hand in token of Christian fellowship.
Art. 7. The Association shall have power to exclude from her union, after due labor had, any church that may violate the Constitution or depart from the orthodox principles of the gospel.
Art 8. The Association shall have a competent number of the Minutes ol each session, to be printed, and the churches to be furnished therewith.
Art. 9. Every question sent up by a particular church must be included in her letter, with a statement that she had endeavored to reconcile it, but has failed ; the Association maj then take the matter under consideration ; and the voice of the majority shall be an advisory answer, which shall be entered on the Minutes.
Art 10. Questions which concern the general union and prosperity of the churches, and spread of the gospel, may be sent up by a particular church, or introduced by proper motion, and shall be taken up and decided as soon as discretion may render practicable.
Art. 11. The Association shall have a fund, to be supplied by the volun- tary contributions of the churches, or otherwise, as may gratuitously be contributed, by their messengers, and paid over to the Clerk, who shall take in charge said fund, and dispose of the same agreeable to order; and at every session make a fair and circumstantial report thereof.
Art. 12. A suitable and well-bound Association book shall be provided, in which the former constitution, etc , together with the Minutes of the previous sessions, this Constitution, Abstract and Rules, and the Minutes of this and the succeeding sessions, shall be legibly transcribed, recorded properly, paged and indexed by or under the inspection of the Clerk, who shall be allowed and receive a fair compensation for his services; and it shall also be the duty of the Clerk of this Association, and of each of the churches, to procure, if practicable, and preserve a regular file of the printed Minutes of this Association.
Art. 13. The Association shall not adjourn at any session, until she shall have finished all the business on hand, except abstruse, difficult and extra- ordinary matter-, may be laid over.
rt. 14. The Minutes of the Association shall be read, corrected, if nec- essary, and signed by the Moderator and Clerk, before the session rises.
Art. 15. Amendments of this Constitution may be made at any session by a concurrence of two-thirds of the members present; but in all other cases the Association shall be governed by a majority of the members present.
RULES OF DECORUM.
1. At each meeting of this Association the Moderator shall take the chair, shall call the meeting to order, shall decide questions of order subject to an appeal, shall open and close the Association with prayer, shall appoint committees when not otherwise ordered, and shall pronounce the decision of the Association.
2. The names of members shall be called each day, and invitations to seats extended to ministering brethren.
3 The members shall observe respect to officers and to each other, shall arise when addressing the Moderator, shall confine themselves to the ques- tions, shall avoid personalities shall not speak without leave more than once until every member shall have opportunity to speak, and shall sustain that bearing to each other which becomes gentlemen and Christians.
4 When a motion is made and seconded, it shall be stated by the Mode- rator, and then shall be in possession of the Association, but may be with- drawn by the mover before amendment or decision.
5. When a question is under debate, no motion shall be received, except to adjourn, to lay on the table, to amend or postpone; which motion shall have precedence in the order enumerated.
6. All questions, except those relating to the Constitution, shall be de- cided by a majority. Any member voting with the majority may move for a reconsideration on the day of decision. Members may not leave the Association without permission.
7. When questions of order are not provided for in these rules, they shall be decided according to the rules and regulations governing legisla- tive bodies generally.
8 The Association shall have power to receive into its body and fellow- ship such churches as apply for admission; and shall also be empowered to withdraw its fellowship from any church or body of men walking disor- derly, and supposed to be unworthy the fellowship of this Association.
^TI^TTJTES.
FIRST DAY— Friday Morning.
The 80th annual session ot Bethel Baptist Association con- vened with Catherine church, Wilcox county, Alabama, on Fri- day, September 21st, 1900, and was called to order by the for- mer Moderator — Hon. D. J. Meador.
Prayer by Eld. J. W. Stewart.
On motion, J. E. Hecker was made temporary Clerk.
In the absence of the appointee, Eld. A. G. Moseley, of the Home Mission work, New Orleans, preached the Introductory Sermon from the texts — "By Grace are ye saved," Ephesians 2:8; "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling," Phillipians 2:12; "Now is our salyation nearer than when we first believed," Komans 13:11.
Recessed until 1:30 P. M.
Evening Session.
Reassembled with prayer by Eld. W. V. Vice.
Upon motion, Bros. P. C. Barkley and Joe Lambert were ap- pointed to read the church letters, and the following" were en- rolled as messengers:
Aimwelt. — D. P. Jowers, Robert May ton, J. H. Daniels. Bethel— J. W. Sandlin. C. A. Floyd, 0. H. Fluker. Bethlehem— G. W Barkley, C. H. Miller. Catherine— G. \V. Webb, L. 0. DeVVitt, Joe Lambert. County Line— W. H. England, H. C. Rikard, O. B. England. Flatwoods Chapel, — R. E Pharr, John Jackson, J. W. Brown. Lamison — H. Dun away, Wm. Dunaway, G. L Sutton. Linden— P. B. Glass, J. E Hecker, W. B. Glass. Myrtlewood — D. J. Meador, W. B. Crosby. Nanafalia — W. K. Thomas
Reiioboth— W. H. DeWitt, YV. F. Ray, P. C. Chambers. Safford — VV. F. Setzler. J. A. Cammack, J. M. Roden Shiloh — W. V. Vice, S P. Jackson, Ware Pippinhorst. Thomaston — J. W. Buck, John VVinegar, JO. Clancy.
On motion the temporary officers were made permanent.
Bro. J. F. Grimes, of Myrtlewood church, through the Mod- erator, presented the Association with a neat gavel, to whom the thanks of the Association were tendered.
The Moderator announced the following committees to report during the session:
On Finance— P. B. Glass, J. B. Perkins, H. C. Rikard.
On Religious Services — Eld. G. VV. Webb and Deacons of Catherine church
On Nominations, Documents and Requests— W. K. Thomas, J O. Clan- cy, W. F. Setzler.
On motion the following Order of Business was adopted:
PRTDAY.
1. Temporary organization.
2. Introductory sermon.
3. Reading letters.
4. Permanent organization.
5. Appointment of committees to report during the session —
On finance.
On nominations, documents and requests.
On religious services during the session.
6. Report on religious state of the churches.
7. Report on aged and infirm ministers.
8. Report on religious periodicals.
9. Report on The Orphanage.
SATURDAY.
10. Report on Bible a^d colportage work.
11. Report on State Missions.
12. Report on Home Missions.
13. Report on Foreign Missions.
14. Report on eDiperance.
15. Report on Institute work
SUNDAY'
16. Repor} on Ministerial and General Education.
17. Report on Sabbath Scho i]g.
18. Report of Committee on Finance.
19. Report of Executive Committee.
20. Report of Committee on Nominations, Documents and Requests.
21. Report of Treasurer.
22. Appointment of Standing Committees.
23. Appointment of Executive Committee.
24. Reading .Minutes.
25. Adjournment.
Eld. J. W. Stewart, representing- the Orphanage, Eld. A. G. Moseley, of the Home Mission work, New Orleans, and Bro. \V. B. Jackson, of South Bethel, were welcomed in their re- spective capacities.
The Moderator announced the following- committee to report on Religious State of the Churches, in the absence of the reg-- ular appointees :
W. H. DeWitt, G. L. Sutton, S. P. Jackson.
Report on the Orphanage was read and discussed by Kids. J. W. Stewart and J. W. Sandlin. A collection of $14.25 was taken, after which the report was adopted, as foHows :
REPORT ON ORPHAN'S HOME.
Our Orphan's Home was temporarily located at Evergreen, in Jan. 1893, and on March 10, following, the first children were received under its pro- tecting care. By Nov. of that year, we had received 22 children, and the little rented dilapidated house was more than full, and a negro cabin in the corner of the yard had to be fitted up to hold the overflow of children.
The Trustees, after having duly considered all possible places for a per- manent location, decided to let it remain permanently in Evergreen, and purchased an old homestead consisting of 80 acres of land, with a brick resi- dence with ten rooms and three tenant houses. This property was admira- bly located. The purchase price was $5,000.00 in three installments, with interest on the deferred payments. The amount actuallv paid was $5,400.33. This debt was duly paid, and trie property was improved, changed, and another building added, and all debts for improvements were paid. No encumbrance has ever been on the Home.
About 30 acres of this land is in farm, 30 in pasture, and 20 in woods. The boys are taught to do farm work, while the girls do various kinds of house-work, from scrubbing in the kitchen to the making of a dress.
The family life of the children is about like that of any well reg lated family. There are no written rules to govern the children, but they are taught to observe one rule that contains al others, viz: "Do right. ' While the physical and industrial life of the children are looked after carefully, their spiritual life is not neglected. Many of them have been baptized. All that are large enough attend Sunday School and church, and the regu- lar family worship is held every evening.
The 186 children that have been received since the Home was started came from 30 counties, as follows : Autauga 2, Barbour 8, Bibb 2, Bullock 1, Butler 3. Chambers 1, Conecuh 2, Covington 8, Dallas 4, Elmore 4, Escam- bia 11 . Hale 3, Henry 4. Jackson 1, Jefferson 15, Lamar 1, Lee 10, Lime- stone 1, Marengo 4, Mobile 2, Monroe 4, Montgomery 8, Morgan 8, Pike 2, Russell 4, Shelby L, Talladega 10, Tallapoosa 2, Tuscaloosa 9, and Walker 6. Of these, 2 boys and 4 girls have Hied; 2 boys have been apprenticed, 2 boys and 1 girl have been irregularly discharged ; 13 boys and 18 girls have lxjen returned to their people, and 15 boys and 14 girls have been adopted, making 34 boys and 37 girls that have gone out from us. leaving 29 boys and 36 t?irls in 'the Home— 136 received, 71 gone out, 65 here. Our great, constant need is money or food for the regular support of these chil- dren, and our special urgent need is another building so that we could take proper care of our children when they are sick. All our rooms are regu- larly occupied by the family, and when we have sick children it is imprac- ticable to take proper care of them, or to isolate them in case of contagious diseases. "I was sick and ye visited me."
It takes about $10.00 a day for the regular support of these children. \Y e have no income except the free-will offerings of the friends of the friends of our work.
Who will dare to say these defenseless children should not be cared tor ( Why are there still 500 Baptist preachers in Alabama who, so far as is known, have never shown the least interest in this work ? Why are there at least 1200 churches that have not yet been heard fom ?
Your committee respectfully urge that all pastors bring the need of this work before their people, both for the regular support of the work, and also to help in -any special work necessary.
Respectfully submitted,
Jno. E. Hecker, Chairman.
Upon motion W. K. Thomas was elected Treasurer of the Association.
The report on Religious State of the Churches was read by Eld. W. H. DeWitt, and after being- discussed by Eld. G. L. Sutton and Bros. J. B. Perkins and W. B. Jackson, was adopted, as follows :
REPORT ON EELIGIOUS STATE OF THE CHURCHES.
As to religion, we have plenty, but Christianity is at a low ebb. This is evident from the unhealthy disciplinary condition of our churches, I know- there are more than one Baptist in this Association who ought to have been excluded during the past year. Here and there, there are earnest workers who are carrying the burdens of our cause. What is to be the final out- come with these contending forces? Yodr committee prays that the time will soon come when religion will be dislodged by Christianity.
W. H. DeWitt, Chairman.
The committee on Religious Services announced preaching by Eld. J. W. Sandlin in this church to-night.
The committee on Aged and Infirm Ministers, their Wives and Children, through its chairman, Eld. W. V. Vice, made the fol- lowing report, which, on motion, was adopted :
REPORT ON AGED AND INFIRM MINISTERS, THEIR WIVES AND
CHILDREN.
Your committee begs leave to report if there is any such in this Associa- tion it is not aware of the fact. If there is any such we are in duty bound to care for l hem. We are 10 love them for their very work's sake. They are to bear fruit even in old age, and we ought to take care of them in their second childhood. W. V. Vice, Chairman.
At 8 P. M., Eld. J. W. Sandlin preached a strong sermon from the text: 'Final Opportunity Lest,'' Malt. 21:43; after which Eld. A. G. Moseley laid before the Association his work in New Orleans, and the following pledges, to be paid by No- vember 1st, were made to assist him in his work :
Bethel $10.00: Catherine .fl5.00; County Line $2.50 ; Hills $15 00; Lam- ison #5.00; Linden $10 00; Mynlewood $i0.00 ; Nanafalia $10.00; Safford $4000; Judson $2 50; Thonmston $5.00; T. H. Kimbrough $2 50; cash col- lection $2.05— Total $129 55.
The regular appointees being absent, the Moderator appointed the following committees to report, as follows:
Home Missions — H. 0. Thomas. J. O. Ciancey, G. L. Sutton. Institute Work — J. W Sandlin, L. C. DeWitt, G. L Sutton. Bible axd Colfoktagk Work — VV. B. Crosby, Coats Fluker, H. Duna- way Ministerial Education — J. W. Sandlin, P. B. Glass, W. J. Dunaway.
The Association then adjourned until 9:30 o'clock Saturday morning,
Saturday Morning.
Assembled with prayer by Eld. G, S. Anderson,
Minutes of yesterdav read and approved.
Upon motion a committee of three, with the Moderator as chairman, was raised to draft fitting resolutions to the memory of our lamented brother, Eld. John Thomas Caine, and to- morrow morning at 10 o'clock, was set apart as a special hour
for the consideration of their report. The Moderator appointed on said committee the following- brethren: Elds. J. M. Roden and G. L. Sutton.
The following- brethren were welcomed in their respective capacities: Kid. W. B. Crumptou, Secretary of the State Mis- sion Board; Eld. G. S. Anderson, of the Institute Board; Col. J. T. Murfee, of the Marion Military Institute, ;ind Eld. J. A. Howard, of the Alabama Baptist.
On motion the Treasurer was directed to pay out of any money coming into his hands, not otherwise appropriated, an amount sufficient to make the sum of $40.00 to cancel the Sweet Water church debt whenever said church shall raise the sum of $50.00.
The report on Bible and Colportage Work was, on motion, laid over until to-morrow morning.
On motion, Eld. J. M. Roden, Bro. W. B. Crosby and Eld. J W. Sam'lin, were appointed a committee to draft suitable reso- lutions concerning the departure of onr brother, Eld. J. J. Pipkin, who will shortly sever his connection with this body by moving to Texas.
The Reports on Foreign, State and Home Missions were read, and after being discussed by Elas. W. B. Crumpton, J. M. Ro- den, W. H. DeWitt and J. W. Sandlin, were adopted, as fol- lows :
REPORT ON FOREIGN MISSIONS.
Foreign missions is the all-absorbing theme of the day. Active Chris- tianity striving to advance, and passive church membership, either through ignorance of facts or downright opposition to the great commission to give the Gospel to the world, opposing. The devil has focalized his forces on mission work within the last twelve months. Such opposition has always been God's steel to whet the energies of His children The cry has been for years, we were doing nothing in mission fields; but the recent troubles in China has developed the fact that we were building better than we knew. The natives have stood the test in a way that has not been surpassed since the closing scenes of the Apostolic days.
Soldiers of the cross, Jesus beckons on ; be not wanting. Remember active Christianity holds on with a faith that is omnipotent, because it is the faith of the Son of God.
The board is at work in six fields, with about one hundred missionaries besides 133 native helpers: churches 113, out stations 155, baptisms 1341, membership 6,537. day schools 43, scholars 1.278, Sunday School scholars 2,408. Receipts Foreign Board, $140,102.00; contributed from native churches #7,094.00. W. H. DeWitt,
Chair an,
REPORT ON STATE MISSIONS.
The mission work in Alabama is being carried on largely under the direc- tion of the State Board of Missions, located at Montgomery, W. B. Crump-
ton, Corresponding Secretary. Some work is being done by] Associations in their own bounds, the amounts being supplemented by the State Board. The Board has in its employ this year about forty laborers. More than one hundred ought to be in the field, but the Board has not been entrusted with funds sufficient to meet this demand. It is the purpose of the Board to undertake more work in the way of Bible distribution and the printing of tracts. A. special fund is being asked for this purpose, with good pros- pect of success.
We recommend»that the amount suggested by the State Board to this Association for missions, be accepted and apportioned to the churches, and that we urge the use of the pledge card and envelope system suggested by the State Board for monthly collections. W. V. Vice,
Chairman.
REPORT ON HOME MISSIONS.
The Home Mission work should be the all-absorbing question of the day. for the following reasons: 1st. It touches the very borders of our own beautiful and beloved State, and therefore benefits our own children. 2d. Activity in the Home Mission work means activity in the Foreign Mis- sion work. The statistics of the year just closed show an increase over last year's work, which goes to show that the mighty host of Baptists — God's own and only peculiar and chosen people — are on the upward march, and that the spiritual condition of the churches is on the rise. This should en- courage the loyal Baptists of Bethel Association and give them renewed energy for the year 1901. And while wTe are thankful to God for the grand work done, this year, we humbly beg and pray the Baptists of Bethel Asso- ciation to lay hold of this grand work with such determination that what shall be don > in 1901 in the Hume field may outshine the work of all pre- ceding years in the history of this grand old Association.
Humbly submitted, G. L. Suttox,
Chairman
The report on Temperance was read and discussed by Elds. G. W. Webb, L. C. DeWitt and J. VV. Sandlin and Bro. Joe Lambert.
The hour of adjournment having arrived, the Association re- cessed until 2:30 P. M.
Afternoon Session.
Reassembled with prayer by Eld. G. L. Sutton.
Consideration of the Temperance report was resumed. Eld. J. M. Roden in the chair, Moderator Meador addressed the body on the report. Eld. G. W. Webb also again spoke to the sub- ject. On motion, speeches were limited to five minutes. After further discussion, on motion, the report was recommitted.
The report on Institute Work was read by Eld, G. L. Sutton and fully discussed by Eld. G. S. Anderson, and adopted, as fol- lows:
REPORT OX INSTITUTE WORK.
The Institute work is in its infancy, but the noble purpose for which it was created — that of educating the country minister now in the field, who
has not, neither can otherwise get topological training — commends itself to our Baptist people. There was an Institute held at Pine Hill in June last with ten or twelve ministers present, an I eternity alone will reveal the good that was done. All present went home feeling they had been greatly blessed. We suggest that one or more be held within or near the bounds of oar Association during the year 1901, and that all our ministers be urgently requested to attend
Respectfully submitted, J. W. Sandlin,
Chairman.
The committee to whom was recommitted the report on Tem- perance read its report, and after discussion the same was adopted, as follows:
REPORT ON TEMPERANCE.
We, your committee, to whom was recommitted the report on Temper- ance, beg leave to submit the following : It is the duty of Christians to be temperate in all things. Your committee believe that even the moderate use of vinous or spirituous liquors is subversive of true, vital Godliness in the soul, and recommend to the churches constituting this body that they use every honorable effort in their power for its final overthrow and de- struction. W. B. Jackson,
W. F. Setzler, G. W. Webb,
Committee.
Upon motion the vote by which the report on Bible and Col- portage work was laid over until tomorrow morning-, was re- considered, and a motion presented that said report be taken up and disposed of at a session to be held on to-nig*ht.
Report on Religions Periodicals was . read by Bro. W. K. Thomas, and consideration of said report was deferred until the night session.
Recessed until 7:30 P. M.
Night Session.
Reassembled with prayer by Eld. G W Webb.
Consideration of the report on Religious Periodicals was then taken up. Eld. L. C. DeWitt, the Colporteur of the Associa- tion, addressed the body, after which he grave an itemized state- ment of his year's work. The report of the Executive Com- mittee was read by Chairman Roden, as was also the report on Bible and Colportage work. The three reports were then col- lectively discussed by Elds. J. M. Roden, W. H. DeWitt, G. L. Sutton and W. B. Crump ton and Bro. W. B. Crosby, and adopted as follows:
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REPORT ON RELIGIOUS PERIODICALS. The circulation of our State paper— The Alabama Baptist ; our young peoples' organ— The Union, published in Birmingham ; The Sermonizer, published at Auburn, and the Foreign Mission Journal and Home Field, should be largely increased. Your committee deem this one ot the great agencies to increase the interest and welfare of our denominational work throughout our Association and State. If the reports from the churches are correct, we are sadly lacking in information as to enterprises fostered by our Raptist hosts. We suggest that pastors and octive laymen take hold of this work, and not only increase the circulation of these papers but distribute among our people generally the many good tracts that are ottered by our boards— the State, Foreign, Home and Sunday School— for gratui- tous distribution
Respectfully submitted. W. K. Thomas,
Chairman.
REPORT OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The committee was instructed to employ a colporteur for this Associa- tion. It met the last of October and elected Eld. E H. Perry. He worked during the month of November and most of the month of December; he then resigned. He did a good work in selling books. The committee then elected Eld. L. C. DeWitt, and he has done an excellent work. The following is the financial exhibit:
Received from churches and sale of books.. . $3ob o4
Value of books on hand • • ■ 6' 1()
Total $423 64
By amount paid colporteur and for books 3"0 4<
Balance on hand in books $ 63 17
Respectfully submitted, J. M. Roden,
Chairman Executive Committee.
REPORT ON BIBLE AND COLPORTAGE WORK.
We, your committee on Colportage, beg to submit the following report : We believe that there is no work in which the Bethel Association is en- gaged that is of more vital importance than the Bible and Colportage w.u-k. It is a work that can reach remote and destitute places as no other work can. Tin -ough this work we can go out into the by-ways and dark corners within our borders and reach those who are not in reach of a Sun- day School and church services. It is by this work that we can iay a sure foundation upon which we can build what may be in the future some ot our strongest and most active churches.
Verily the work of a colporteur is an important one. First, the blade, which is the colporteur's work, talking Christ in the homes, distributing Bibles and Testaments and religious literature of every kind. Then the ear— the Sunday Schools and prayer meetings, resulting from the founda- tional work. After that, the full corn in the ear— the well established and almost without exception, the most active, sacrificing churches we have.
And not only in destitute places do we believe there is work to do, but throughout the entire Association is his work needed. This is an age of enlightenment, of advancement. There is seemingly a growing demand, especially on the part of the boys and girls, the young men and women ot our country, for something to read. They are going to have it ; they ought to have it. Brethren, let us meet this demand with good, religious, Bap- tist literature to offset the obscene, trashy stufl, and especially the false doctrines scattered throughout this land.
11
It is with regret that we learn that Bro. L. C. DeWittwill resign his work in this capacity, for we believe he has made a fine showing consid-ring the short time he lias been in the work and the difficulties under which he had to labor; and we do earnestly hope and oray that. our Executive Commit- tee may think proper, and be able to find a worthy successor to carry the work on, and that the chinches may rally to him that the work may be the more effectual.
Respectfully submitted, W. B. Crosby,
Chairman.
On motion the Association resolved to continue the Colport- age work and to request the State Mission Board to give it $100.00. The following pledges were then made to continue the work:
Bethel $10.00, Catherine $10.00, County Line #5.00, Flatwoods Chapel $2.50, Lamison $5.00. Linden #5.00, Myrtlewood $5 00, Nanafalia $10 00, Re- hoboth $2.50 Safford $40.00. Shiloh $2.50. Thomaston $10X0, Friendship $2 50, Hills $20.00. Union Grove $2.50, D. J. Meador $20 00, J. M. Roden $10.00, W. F Perkins $10.00, W. F. Setzler $10.00, G. L. Sutton $5 00, J. W. Sandiin $5.00, H. C. Rikard $2.50— Total $200.00.
The following preamble and resolutions, offered by the com- mittee appointed to draft resolutions in reference to Eld. J. J. Pipkin, were unanimously adopted:
"Whereas, Elder J. J. Pipkin, who has been actively engaged in the pas- toral work in the Bethel Association for five or more years, during which time he has had charge of some of the most important churches in our Association, in which work he has proven himself a most zealous, conse- crated, untiring and successful worker in the Lord's vineyard;
'•And Whereas, he has decided to sever his connection with us, having determined to move to our sister State — Texas ;
''And Whereas, Bro. Pipkin has, by his Godly walk, by his Christian life, by his untiring energies, by his earnest, successful preaching, so en- deared himself to us! therefore —
"Be it Resolved, 1st. That we. the Bethel Baptist Association in session assembled, while we deeply regret that •.■ur relationship with him shall be seveivd, do most heartily recommend him to the Baptist brotherhood of our sister State, or wherever lie may go, as a 'aithl'ul, fearless minister of the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
'" Resolved, 2d. That our sympathies and our j rayers shall follow him to his nf>w field of labor.
"Resolved, 3d. That this preamble and resolutions be inscribed in the minutes of our Association."
The followiug pledges to make up the balance due on the In- stitute work were made:
Bethel $5 00, Catherine $1.00, Frier dship $1 00. Hills $5.00, Judson $L00, Myrtlewood $5.00, Nanafalia $3.00, Rehoboth $2 00, Safford $10.00, Shiloh $2.50, Thomaston $2.50, Union Grove $1.00— Total $39.00.
The Association then adjourned until 0:30 o'clock Sunday morning,
13
Sunday Morning.
Reassembled with prayer by Eld. W. H. DeWitt.
Minutes of 3'e^terday read and approved.
The Committee on resolutions to the memory of Eld. J. T. Caine reported as follows:
ELDER J. T. CAINE.
Our beloved brother, Elder J hn Thomas Cainer was born in Walker county, Ala., Sept. 15, 1831, and died at his home, near Safford Station, Dal- las county, March 12, 1900. In his youth he attended Salem Academy, at old Elyton, now a part of Birmingham, and for a while was a teacher in that noted school. He afterwards taught school at Harpersville, Provi- dence, and for a number of years near his home. He was licensed to preach by Canaan church in 1852, and ordained by Mt. Moriah church in 1854 ; thus he had been in the Baptist ministry for nearly forty-five years. Entering Howard College in 1857, he graduated in 1860 with the degree of A. B. For many years he was pator of churches in this section, and for the last five years was Moderator of Bethel Association. Shortly after graduating he married Miss D. A. Holmes, with whom he lived happily until his death. They first met while he was a student at the Howard and she at the Judson Institute. Eight children were born to them, seven of whom survive him. His devotion to his wife and children was only exceeded by his devotion to God; and no man had a more loving wife or more devoted children than he. Only his family, the members of Safford church, and the churches of Bethel Association, know what a loss God's cause, has sustained — for those who knew him best loved him most. Highly intellectual, thoroughly edu- cated, scholarly to an unusual degree; an authority on theological as well as secular matters, yet he was as humble as a little child. He gave largely to missions and education. Howard College and the Judson Institute were very near his heart, and in these schools he educated his children. To his pastor he was a tower of strength — a friend true and tried. It is sale to say that no one was so greatly beloved among the churches of Bethel Asso- ciation as he. " One of the noblest spirits of earth has gone home to God.
After feeling remarks by Elds. J. M. Roden, G. L. Sutton and W. B. Crumpton and Bro. J. B. Perkins, the memorial was adopted and a page of the minutes set apart to his memory.
The report on Ministerial and General Education was read and discussed by Elds. J. W. Sandlin, J. M. Roden and W. H. DeWitt, and adopted, as follows:
REPORT ON MINISTERIAL AND GENERAL EDUCATION
Your committee submit the following report:
Comparatively speaking, there is a great wave of enthusiasm on the sub- ject of general education sweeping over our country. No profession or trade but is represented in the various schools which necessity, the mother of invention, has erected. Farmers, mechanics everybody is getting an edu- cation. Shall the ministry be left behind? Is the education of the heralds of the cross of less importance than that of other professions? Is the price of souls of less value than successful farming? Shall we send our boys to Auburn that they may learn scientific agriculture, and neglect the education of our young ministry, who are to preach the Gospel to them? We must educate the ministry if we hope to reach the leading men of other professions, as well as the uneducated.
13
We recommend Howard College, at East Lake ; the Judson Institute at Marion, and the Central Female College at Tnskaloosa.
Your committee is glad to report that our beneficiary at Howard College is making a fine record.
We also recommend our Bro. L. C. DeWitt as a beneficiary.
Respectfully submitted, J. W'i Sandlin,
Chairman.
On motion the churches were directed to send the money pledged for Ministerial Education to the Executive Committee, who shall divide the same between the beneficiaries.
On motion the regular order of business was suspended and Eld. W. B. Crumpton preached the Missionary sermon from the text: "Ask of me and I will give thee the heathen for thine in- heritance, " Psalms 2:8; after which a collection of $14.10 was taken.
Report of committee on Sabbath Sehools was read and adopted without discussion, as follows:
"REPORT ON SABBATH SCHOOLS.
AH recognize the usefulness and beneficial influences of _ the Sabbath School work, and we urge upon the churches of this Association the great importance of engaging more actively in it. In 1899 seventeen churches reported to this body a membership of about 1,050. Only fourteen of these reported Sabbath Schools, with a total membership of about 800. Up to this time we have twelve churches reported, aggregating a membership of about 900; also twelve Sundav Schools, aggregating a total of about 300.
Your committee would respectfully urge upon our Sunday Schools the use of the Southern Baptist Convention literature, published at Nashville, Tenn. Respectfully submitted,
S. P. Jackson, Chairman.
The Finance Committee reported as follows :
REPORT OF FINANCE COMMITTEE. Finance Committee in account with Bethel Baptist Association :
DR.
State Missions, cash $ 28 27 Vouchers $ 93 74
Home Missions, cash 8 50 Vouchers 28 97
Foreign Missions, cash 11 91 \ ouchers 28 97
Church Buildings, cash Vouchers 85 00
Associational Purposes, cash 15 05 ■ • • D1 01
Bible and Colportage, cash 9 55 Vouchers 8121
Ministerial Education , cash 27 40 Vouchers 23 95
Institute Work, cash 11 26 Vouchers 10 00
Aged and Infirm Ministers, cash 1 00
Orphan's Home, cash 7 55 \ ouchers <5 29
Minutes, cash 21 70
Total cash $142 19 Total vouchers. . $427 06
CR.
By vouchers $427 06 By cash paid treasurer $142 19
Total #569 25
Respectfully submitted, P- B. Glass,
Chairman.
14
On motion the Treasurer was directed to pay to Bro. P. C. Barkle}7 any money in his hands for Ministerial Kducation.
The committee on Nominations, Documents and Requests made the following report, which was adopted:
REPORT ON NOMINATIONS, DOCUMENTS AND REQUESTS.
We recommend that the next session of this Association be held with Thomaston church', beginning at 10 A. M. on Friday before the fourth Sab- bath in September, 1901.
That Eld. W. H. DeWitt preach the Introductory Sermon, Eld. J. Lee Tucker, alternate ; that Eld. J. M. Roden preach the Doctrinal Sermon, Eld. J. R. G. White, alternate ; that Eld. J. M. Roden represent us in the Southern Baptist Convention, Eld. W. H. DeWitt, alternate ; and we recom- mend that volunteers be called for to represent us in the I aptist State Con- vention. Respectfully submitted,
W. K. Thomas, Chairman.
The following Bros, volunteered as messengers to the State Convention : J. W.Sandlin, G. L. Sutton, J. M. Roden, W H. DeWitt, D J. Meador, P. B. Glass, J. W. Buck. W. F. Setzler, J. E. Hecker, W. K. Thomas.
The Treasurer's report was read and approved, as follows: TREASURER'S REPORT. W. K. Thomas, Treasurer, in account with Bethel Association :
DR.
Sept. 1899. Received of Finance Committee $104 56
Collection on Sunday 25 11
Total $129 67
CR.
Paid W. B. Crumpton, Home and Foreign Missions $42 32
Paid W. II. D^AVitt, Stale Missions . . 14 10
Paid G. S. Anderson , Institute Board 27 11
Paid T. C. Barkley, Ministerial Education 10 10
Paid J. W Stewart. Orphanage 5 95
Paid Mrs. Daniels. Aged and Infirm Ministers 1 56
Paid L. Matkin, Minutes 2S 53— $129 67
Respectfully submitted, W. K. Thomas,
Treasurer.
The Moderator announced the following standing committees to report at the next session of the Bethel Association:
Aged and Infirm Ministerr, Their Wives and Children — W. V. Vice, s. P. Jackson, G W. i-'-arkley.
Religious Periodicals— G. W. Webb, J. W. Buck, H.C. Rikard.
Bible and Colportage Work — J. M Roden, J. B. Perkins, J. A. Cam- mack.
Ministerial and General Education — L. C. DeWitt, W. B. Glass, W. F. Westbrook.
Temperance — Joe Lambert, J. Q. Bailey, W. F. Ray.
Institute Work— G L. Sutton, W. V. Vice. Coats Fluker.
Orphanage — W. B. Crosbv, A. C. Thomas, Robert Mayton.
State Missions— W. H. DeWitt, H. Dunaway, W. F. Setzler.
Home Missions— J. W. Sandlin, G. L. Sutton, C. W. Blunt.
Foreign Missions— J. L. Tucker, H. C. Thomas, V. H. Came.
Religious State of the Churches— W. K. Thomas, C. H. Miller, W L. Walston.
15
Sabbath Schools — J. Q. Bailey, P. B. Glass, J. S. Coats.
The Moderator named the following Executive Committee:
J. M. Roden, J. W. Sandlin, W. H. DeWitt, A. R, Oxford and J. E. Hecker, and on motion the Moderator was added to the committee.
The committee on Apportionment reported as follows:
Churches.
Aimwell
Bethel
Bethlehem
Beaver Creek
Catherine
Canaan
County Line
Flntwoods Chapel.
Friendship
Hills
Judson
Lam i son
Linden
Myrtlewood
Mt. Pleasant
Nanafalia
Iiehoboch
Safford
Shiloh
Thomnston . ....
Union Grove
Vincent
15 00 30 00 20 CO 10 00 15 00
2 00 10 00 10 00
7 50 35 00 10 00 20 00 23 00 30 00 30 00 35 00 15 00 70 00 15 00 SO 00
6 00
5 00
5 00 10 00
10 00
10 00 2 50 5 00 2 00
2 50 10 00 10 00
3 00 20 00
2 50
10 00
2 00
2 CO
10 00 f
10 00
5 00
2 50
00
00
50
00
10 00
2 50 5 00
10 00 5 00
10 00
10 00 5 00
20 00 5 00
10 00
3 00 3 00
5 00
10 00
5 00
2 50
10 00
1 00 5 00
2 50
3 00 20 00
00 00 00 00 00 00 50
40 00 2 50
10 00 2 50
2 00
Total $ 443 50!$ 121 50 $ 144 50 $158 50
The following- resolution was adopted unanimously:
Resolved, That the thanks of this body are hereby tendered to Catherine Church and the citizens of this community for their kind and hospitable entertainment during its session.
The Moderator then declared the Association adjourned to meet with Thomaston church, at Thomaston, in Marengo county, at 10 A. M., on Friday before the fourth Sabbath in September. 1901. D, J. MEADOR, Moderator.
John E. Hecker, Clerk
FINANCIAL EXHIBIT OF BETHEL ASSOCIATION FOR 1900.
CHURCHES.
MISSIONS.
EDUCATION.
m
o
O fa
|
cc (D |
oj |
|
.2 o |
C O |
|
+3 o3 |
|
|
3ffl +3 |
O O |
|
•s J9 |
CD |
|
io £ |
<! i |
bfl
o
3
~ ft
C G
re) ^ C
D
O
0
Aimwell
Bethel
Bethlehem
Beaver Creek
Catherine
County Line. . . Flatwoods Chapel
*Friendship
Hills
Judson
Lamison
Linden
Myrtlewood
*Mt. Pleasant
Nanafalia
Rehoboth
Safford
Shiloh
Thomaston
*Union Grove
*Vincent
Oash|V'chr| Cash |Vc'hr| Cash |Vouch| V'chr Cash | Cash
$ 2 50 3 91 1 00
$27 98
3 25
4 42
5 91
$ 2 00
$ 5 05
1 00
2 75 2 29 1 55
$ 2 50 4 50
85
1 63 5 93
2 65
$ 1 00
50
Vouchrl Cash Vouchrl Cash! Vouch I Cash
00 90
5 00
7 70
2 15
70
5 00 2 00 2 00 1 63
2 00 1 95
$ 1 33
2 43
1 00
CashlVouchr
$2 50
1 05
2 00
1 65 14 73
2 50
2 00
50
1 00
2 00 50
$ 17 33
51 34
4 55
24 13 43 08 14 26
1 70
2 00 16 36
5 00 2 05 2 05
56
1 00
1 00
3 0.
3 07
$ 2 00
1 00 3 00
2 00
4 77
2 00
5 00
13 05
5 00
1 41
10 00
11 00 5 00
00 00 50 50 00
4 46 31 32 35 00 29 05
2 50
9 35
1 97
25 00
1 76
00! 00
2 50
1 00 1 50
2 50
10 00 1 76
2 50
1 36
10 00
1 76
9 00
4 05
10 00 2 00
3 00 1 50
1 00
2 00
$85 00
40 00 1 76
20 00
Total $28 27|$93 74 $ 8 50 $28 97 $11 9l|$ 28 90 $85 00 $15 05 $ 9 55 $ 81 21 $ 27 40 $ 23 95 $11 26 $ 10 00 $ 1 00 $7 55 $ 75 29 $21 70|1$569 25
% 10 00
20 00 1150
00 00! 00 70 50
61 35
18 88
213 50
7 74
4 00
Collections at Association For Missions
*No Letter.
10 For Orphanage $14 25,
CHURCHES.
COUNTY
Aimwell
Bethel
Bethlehem
•-Beaver Creek .
Catherine
County Line
Flatwoods Chapel
*Friendship
Hills
Judson
Lamison
Linden
Myrtlewood
*Mt. Pleasant. . .
Nanafalia
Eehoboth
Safford
Shiloh
Thomaston
*UnioD Grove. . . *Yincent
Totals.
*No letter.
Marengo. Marengo. Marengo.
Wilcox. ..
Wilcox..
Marengo,
Marengo. Wilcox . Marengo. Marengo.
Marengo. Wilcox . . Dallas . Marengo. Marengo.
STATISTICS OF BETHEL ASSOCIATION FOR 1900.
PASTOR.
E. H. Perry . J, W. Sandlin J. R. G. White
W. A. Parker. C.H. Morgan. W. V. Vice . .
G. L. Sutton. G. L. Sutton J. Pv. G. White J. J. Pipkin . .
J. J. Pipkin. . . W. H. DeWitt J. M. Roden . . W. H. DeW itt J. W. Sandlin
CLERKS AND TOSTOFFICES.
c3 ft"1"3
cC
Increase
CD U
Decrease.
H
ft
+3 O)
c ^^
Qj
SUNDAY SCHOOL.
o
Superintendent's Name and P. O. Address.
J. L. Mayton, Aimwell
C. H. Fluker, McKinley
G. W. Barkley, Octagon
K. W. Arrington, Catherine. . .
W. T. Reaves, Arlington
J. W. Brown, Thomaston
Warren Etheridge, Sweet Water.
E. L . Arnold, Lamison
Lamar Matkin, Linden,
W. B. Crosby, Myrtlewood
357
58 67
76
24
113
14
A. G. Westbrook, Nanafalia. W. F. Ray, Rehoboth . '.
J. M. Thomas, Safford
O. P. Tueker, Wayne
Ed. Euck, Thomaston
39 21 45 23
127 31 78
136 56
1051
22
63
61
6| 4
5
1
42411
17
171 62 64
"81
23
125
85 35 9K
5 15
6 35
W. H. Mayton; Aimwell J. B. Perkins, McKiniey
L. C. DeWitt, Catherine. H C. Rikard, Arlington. .
14
39 66 45 26
i27 30 67
137
60
1123
50 22
15
35
50 24 30
62 421
H. Dunaway. Lamison. . ,T. E. Hecker, Linden . W. B. Crosby, Myrtlewood
J. Q. Bailey, Nanafalia.
L. S.Stroud, Safford ... S. P. Jackson, Shiloh. . . J. W. Buck, Thomaston
— —
-
1
4 2
1
3 o
lctS
1 2&4
LIST OF ORDAINED MINISTERS WITH MEMBERSHIP IN BETHEL
ASSOCIATION.
|
NAME. |
POSTOFFICE. |
NO OP CHURCHES PASTOR OP. |
|
J. W. Sandl in G. W. Webb |
McKinley, Ala |
2 |
|
L. C. DeWitt |
||
|
J. E. White |
Sweet Water, Ala |
|
|
G. L. Sutton |
2 |
|
|
J. R. G. White .... |
2 |
|
|
J. J. Pipkin |
2 |
|
|
J. Lee Tucker |
Nanafalia, Ala |
|
|
W. H. DeWitt... |
Gastonburg, Ala |
2 |
|
W. V. Vice |
Shiloh, Ala |
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