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MEMOIR
MEMOIR OF THE LIEE
RT. REV. RICHARD CHANINING MOORE, D. D.
BISHOP OF THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH
DIOCESE OF VIRGINIA.
BY J. P. K. HENSHAW, D. D. nj^cfj^,
RECTOR OF BT. PETEU's CHCIICH, BALTIMOIIE.
ACCOMPANIED BY A SELECTION FROM
THE SERMONS
• '. ; ; - , OF rriE
:.■'■ iATE UiSHOP.
PHILADELPHIA:
WILLIAM STAVE LY AND CO,
No. 12 Penr street.
1842. i^
Entered according to the Act of Coneress, in the year 1842, by
WILLIAM STAVELY AND CO.
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Kasiern District of
Pennsylvania.
PEEFACE.
The following Biography of the late Bishop Moore, un-
dertaken at the request of his family, has been written in the
hours which could be spared amidst the multiplied duties of a
large parochial cure. The labours of the biographer have been
lightened by the kindness of the Bishop's children, in copy-
ing from his letter-book the most interesting parts of his cor-
respondence ; and also in selecting and preparing for the press
such of his sermons as they desired to have published. What-
ever may be the faults and deficiencies of the Memoir, it
claims to furnish a faithful portraiture of the life and character
of a venerable Father in the Church, which her children may
contemplate with satisfaction and profit.
The writer has found it necessary to touch upon some deli-
cate points, affecting the policy and usagesof the Church, about
which there is an acknowledged diversity of sentiment. With-
out this, it would have been impracticable to present a faithful
account of Bishop Moore's life and opinions. He has aimed,
however, to perform this delicate part of his duty, less in the
spirit of a partisan, than in that of a sincere inquirer after truth.
He would not dogmatically enforce upon the reader an assent
to all the views entertained either by himself or the subject of
his memoir. For, however earnestly he may desire the exti no-
tion of party names and of party spirit, he is persuaded that
the readiest means of attaining it is to infuse the Catholic
spirit of the Church into all her ministers and members: — to
recognize the wide difference which really exists between doc-
tri7ies of faith, and mere matters of opinion: — and to require
nothing as essential to sound churchmanship, but a cordial
agreement in the former, whatever diversity may exist re-
specting the latter. The only proper test of orthodoxy is belief
of the truth, as taught in the Articles and creeds; and confor-
mity to the laws of the Church, embodied in her rubrics and
canons: and not an assent to the interpretation put upon them
by any particular class of Churchmen. Whenever the great
body of the ministry and laity shall be led, like the venerable
subject of the following iMcmoir, to act upon this principle,
which is the principle of the Church — we shall behold, through-
out the length and breadth of our communion, an answer to our
daily prayer that " all who profess and call themselves Chris-
tians, may hold the faith, in unity of spirit, and in the bond of
peace." The Lord hasten it in his time !
J. P. K. H.
Baltimore, August, 1842.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
1762 TO 1787. PAGE.
Introduction. The Bishop's Birth — Ancestry — Beneficial influence
of maternal instruction and example. Indications of piety in his
early childhood, and presentiments of future occupation in the
sacred ministry. His classical education. Visit to W-est Point
— anecdote of the Moore family during the Revolutionary War.
Brief trial of sea-life. Devotes himself to the study of medicine —
and enters into practice. His first marriage. His early religious
impressions in a great measure lost, and he conforms to the gaie-
ties of the world. His conversion. 9
CHAPTER II.
FnoM 1787 to 1809,
Immediate change of purpose as to his profession after conversion-
Reviews his classical studies. Enters upon preparation for Holy
Orders. Ordained Deacon, His Sermon on the Fiftieth Anni-
versary of his Ordination. His ministry at Rye, Intimacy with
John Jay. His removal to St. Andrew's Church, Staten Island,
Practises medicine and tenches a school to aid in the support of
his family. Letters to his children. Death of his wife, and
letters occasioned thereby. His second marriage. His first at-
tempt at extempore preaching, and subsequent success in it.
Anecdote illustrative of his fidelity in pastoral duty; — another,
showing his humanity. Remarkable revival of religion, Th«
character and success of his ministry on Staten Island, 30
CHAPTER III.
FnoM 1809 TO 1814.
The advantages and disadvantages of city and country charges
respectively. Dr. Moore's call to St. Stephen's Church, New
York. The state of the Church in that city. Ministry of Dr.
Hobart. The depressed condition of St. Stephen's when Dr.
Moore took charge of it. Its rapid increase. The active efibrts
VI CONTENTS,
PAGE
of George Warner, recorded by Bishop Moore in a letter to his
widow. Lecture-room services and prayer meetings. The
opinion of Bishop Moore respecting them. Their propriety dis-
cussed. Approval of Nelson, Bishops Claggett and Kemp, and
the present presiding Bishop. Letters on Prayer Meetings and
Associations. Revivals of Religion, and Clerical Associations.
Letters to Bishops Meade and Bowen on Anxious Seats and Re-
vivals. The course of Dr. Moore in reference to an unhappy
controversy in the Church of New York. A succinct review
of the effect of his ministry in St. Stephen's.-" 70
CHAPTER IV.
1814.
The early history of the Church in Virginia. Election of Dr.
Griffith as Bishop, in 1786. Bishop Madison, the first Bishop
of Virginia, consecrated in 1790. Deep depression of the Church,
and its causes. Apostolic character and labours of the Rev. De-
vereux Jarratt. Dr. Bracken's election in 1812. New era in the
Church under the auspices of a few young Clergymen. Erec-
tion of the Monumental Church in Richmond — and efforts made
to obtain Dr. Moore for its first Rector with a view to his elec-
tion as Bishop. Correspondence on the subject — including letters
from Judge Washington, Bishop Hobart, and others. Propriety
and delicacy of Dr. Moore's course in respect to it. His election
by the Convention, and circumstances connected with his con-
secration in 1814. His removal to Richmond. Previous condi-
tion of the Episcopal community there. His great popularity
and success. Fidelity in the pulpit and in pastoral visitation.
Presentation to him of a splendid copy of the New Testament by
his fellow citizens of all denominations. Summary view of his
character and labours as Rector of the Monumental Church. 107
CHAPTER V.
From 1814x0 1829.
The views and spirit with which Bishop Moore entered upon the
duties of his Episcopate. Notices of the early success of his la-
bours. An Episcoi)ate fund proposrj. Formation of Pr.iyer
Book and Tract Society. Rev. Benjamin Allen's labours. Mea-
sures taken to promote theological education in connexion with
William and Mary College. Founding of Theological School, and
the Education Society. Brief sketch of the history of both.
Fashionable amusements and lay discipline. View of Bible So-
cieties, and letters relating to them. His ardent love for the
Liturgy, and desire to have it strictly adhered to in bis Diocese.
CONTE>-TS. Vll
PACE.
Opposition to proposed changes in it. Letters on the Liturgy.
Baptismal Regeneration, &c. His views relating to the removals
of Clergymen from one parish to another. Episcopal services in
North Carolina. Death of Rev. Messrs. Norris and Wilmer.
Rumours of his wish to retire from the Diocese. His desire for
an Assistant Bishop. Dr. Meade elected, with an objectionable
restriction, which was afterwards removed. Consecrated in 1829. 159
CHAPTER VI.
From 1829 to 1841.
The expediency of having Assistant Bishops. Canonical restrictions
aa to their election, growing out of the case of Virginia. Bishop
Moore's letter expressing his gratification at the election of
Bishop Meade. A valuable relief to him. Performs Episcopal
duties ill Maryland. Conservative influences in the Church.
Assisted at the consecration of Bishop Stone and preached on the
occasion. His continued delight in Associations and Revivals.
Recommendation of weekly offerings. Inadequate support of the
clergy. Missionary efforts recommended. His zeal for the
Church, and readiness to defend it. Letters of condolence.
Prayer for an inquirer after truth. His ardent love for his chil-
dren. Specimens of his domestic correspondence. His opinion of
the " Tracts for the Times." Was ho a High or a Low Church-
man 1 He did all in a spirit of prayer. His love for the meet-
ings of the Virginiti Convention, and farewell addresses at their
close. His frequent excursions. Visit to Baltimore in the fall of
18.39, and again in 1840, to assist in the consecration of Bishop
Whiltingham. His visit to Westchester, Pa., in August, 1841.
Attendance at the General Convention. Strong testimony in re-
ference to Foreign .Missionary Bishops. Visitation to Lynchburg
— statement of his last illness and death. The monument erected
over bis remains. Sketch of his character. Conclusion. 227
S E R Ar O N I.
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to
lie down in green pastures ; he lendelh me beside the still waters;
he restorelh my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness,
for his name's sako. Yea, though I walk through the valley
and shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me,
thy rod and thy start", they comfort me." —23,/ Psalm, Ist,
2nd, 3d, and 4th verses. 331
VIU CONTEJJTS.
PAGE.
SERMON II.
"Jesus answering, saiJ, Were there not ten cleansed ? but where
are the nine 1 There are not found, that returned to give glory
to God, save this stranger." — St. Luke, xvii. 17, 18. 342
SERMON III.
" And Elijah came unto all the people, and said. How long halt ye
between two opinions 1 If the Lord be God, follow him; but if
Baal, then follow him."— 1 Kings, iviii. 21. 351
SERMON IV.
" Not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to re-
pentance." — 2 Peteu, iii. 9. 360
SERMON V.
" The hand of the Lord was upon me, and carried me out in the
Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley,
which was full of bones, and caused me to pass by them round
about: and, behold, there were very many in the open valley ;
and, lo, they were very dry. And he said unto me, Son of man
can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord God, thou
knowest."— EzEKiEL, xxxvii. 1, 2, 3 370
SERMON VI.
" As he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and a judgment to
come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time,
when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee."— Acts,
ixiv. 25. 380
SERMON VII.
" What wilt thou that I should do unto thee 1 The blind man
said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight. And Jesus
said unto him, Go thy way, thy faith hath made thee whole. And
immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way."
Maiik, X. 51, 52. 389
SERMON VIII.
' The angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of
the midst of a bush : and he looked, and, behold the bush burn-
ed with fire and the bush was not consumed ; and Moses said,
CONTENTS. IX
PAGE.
I will now turn aside and see this grea t sight, why the bush is
not burnt.' — Exodus, iii. 2, 3. 199
SERMON IX.
'He hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deUve-
rance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set
at liberty them that are bruised." — St. Luke, iv. 18. 408
SERMON X.
• God be merciful to me a sinner." — Lcke, xviii. 13. 420
SERMON XI.
When thou passest through the waters I will be with thee ; and
when through the rivers they shall not overflow thee." — Isaiah,
xliii. 2. 430
SERMON XII.
How beautiful upon the mountains, are the feet of him that bring-
eth good tidings, that publisheth peace ; that bringeth good tidings
of guod ; that publisheth salvation ; that sailh unto Zion, thy God
reigneth !" — Isaiah, lii. 7. 441
SERMON XIII.
I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you,
that the Lord Jesus, the same ni^ht in which he was betrayed,
took bread : And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said.
Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you ; this do in
remembrance of me. After the same manner, also, he took the
cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the New Testa-
ment in my blood ; this do ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance
of me. For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye
do shew the Lord's death till he come." — 1 Cor. xi. 23 to 26. •••• 451
SERMON XIV.
As the hart pantelh after the water-brooks, so panteth my soul
after thee. O God ! My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God;
when shall I come and appear before God I" — Psalm, xlii. 1, 2. 463
SERMON XV.
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof, from
such turn away." — 2 Tim. iii. 5. 471
X CONTENTS.
PAGE.
SERMON XVI.
" And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples and said,
Behold my mother and my brethren." — Matthew, xii. 49. 481
^SERMON XVII.
" And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way ;
and God repented of the evil that he had said be would do unto
them, and he did it not, " — Jonah, iii. 10. 492
Erratum. — On page twelve it is stated, on the authority of Mr. Nor-
wood's address, that John Moore was the first person interred in Trinity
Church-yard. It is probable that Mr. N. was misinformed as to this par-
ticular fact.
MEMOIR
CHAPTER I.
1762 TO 1787.
Introduction. The Bishop's Birth — Ancestry— Beneficial influence of
maternal instruction and example. Indications of piety in his early
childhood, and presentiments of future occupation in the sacred ministry.
His classical education. Visit to West Point — anecdote of the Moore
family during the Revolutionary War. Brief trial of sea-life. Devotes him-
self to the study of medicine — and enters into practice. His first marriage.
His early religious impressions in a great measure lost, and he conforms
to the gayeties of the world. His conversion.
To give a biographical sketch of an eminent servant of
God, vi'ho for more than half a century had occupied a dis-
tinguished station in the ranks of the Christian ministry,
and at least for a moiety of that period had been loved
and venerated as a Right Reverend Father in God, is a
task which one can hardly hope to execute so successfully
as not to disappoint the expectations of those to whom the
character and life of the subject of his memoir were fami-
liarly known. Those who have often felt the magic power
of action and the witchery of voice by which the living
teacher of the Gospel sways the understanding and leads
captive the affections of his hearers, and have been actual
observers of that life in which his doctrines were so sweetly
confirmed by the beautiful illustrations of a holy and vir-
tuous conversation, will find any written account tame and
unsatisfactory in comparison with the vivid impressions left
10 MEMOIR OF THE
on their minds by the knowledge of the original. To this
class of readers the memoir of a beloved and distinguished
individual would be like a pencil sketch of the Parthenon,
or any other beautiful temple to one who had spent his life
within view of its walls, — or an oral description of Niagara
to one who had for years listened to the roaring of the
cataract. Pictures of natural scenery and objects seldom
afford satisfaction to those who are familiar with the origi-
nals, and a man's own family most readily discover blem-
ishes in a likeness of himself. No power of art can im-
part to an image the beauty, or vividness, or interest of the
living subject : all that can be attempted is a true outline,
and a faithful representation ; which, while it may serve to
convey to strangers some true idea of one they had never
known, may, at the same time, serve to awaken pleasing
recollections in the minds of others.
The aged disciple, whose life is now to pass under our
review, was extensively known to the religious community
in the United Stales, and in the Church had long been es-
teemed a Patriarch of the family. In this biography we
shall attempt to give a faithful portraiture of the prominent
features in his character, and the most eventful incidents in
his history. If any who have known him long and inti-
mately, will complain that some points which they most
admired in him are not brought prominently into view, it
is to be hoped that there will be enough of fidelity in the
sketch to awaken in the minds of junior readers, and of pos-
terity (should any of them peruse these pages) an admira-
tion of the principles and practices of one they never had
the privilege of knowing ; so that the memory of a Chris-
tian Bishop, who largely possessed the love and confidence
of this generation, may be embalmed in the veneration of
the next.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 11
Richard Channing Moore was born in the city of New-
York, on the 21st of August, A. D. 1762. He was the
worthy scion of a good stock ; and so far as the history of
his family is known to us, extending back through a period
of more than two centuries, some respectable and honour-
able names are found enrolled in the list of his progenitors.
The first of these concerning whom we have any informa-
tion. Sir John Moore, had for his family seat Frawley, in
Berkshire, England. This gentleman was raised to the
order of knighthood by Charles I., king of England, on the
21st of May, 1627 : probably as a reward for some impor-
tant services rendered to the country and the crown. The
motto on his coat of arms was ; Nihil utile quod non
honestum. He was, doubtless, a monarchist in politics,
and a churchman in religion ; as he lost both his fortune
and life in those revolutionary excitements — produced more
by a blind and ignorant religious bigotry than by a love
of rational liberty — which deprived the unfortunate mo-
narch of his crown, and brought him to an ignominious end
upon the scaffold. It was a sacrifice professedly made to
establish the rights of subjects, and freedom of conscience
in religion. But the light which succeeding events have
thrown upon the character of the agents, and of the suf-
ferer, in that tragedy, has led many to contemplate it as a
case of martyrdom in the cause of God and his Church.
Of the descendants of Sir John Moore little is known
until we come to John Moore, the grandfather of the la-
mented Bishop, three of whose brothers, no less than him-
self, were distinguished for their stations and virtues. One
of them was the Rev. Dr. Thomas Moore, chaplain to Dr.
Atterbury, Bishop of Rochester, one of the most eminent
scholars and celebrated preachers of his age. The well-
known eloquent sermons of that admired prelate were
12 MEMOIR OF THE
edited and published under the direction of Dr. Moore.
He died rector of Little Britain in London, leaving a highly
respectable family, among whom was Thomas Moore.
D. D., rector of North Bray, in Kent. Another of the
brothers of John Moore, was Daniel Moore, a gen-
tleman of large estate, who was a member of Parlia-
ment for many years, and whose daughter married the
celebrated Lord Chancellor Erskine. Another of the bro-
thers was William Moore, of Moore Hall, Pennsylvania,
who left a highly respectable family. One of the daugh-
ters of this gentleman became the wife of the Rev. Dr.
William Smith, Provost of the College of Philadelphia ; a
preacher of great celebrity, and well known, in our eccle-
siastical annals, by his able and zealous co-operation with
Bishop White and others in organizing the government and
settling the doctrines, and discipline, and worship of the
Protestant Episcopal Church in this country. Dr. Smith
was chairman of the Committee for revising and altering
the Liturgy, in the first General Convention, in 1785, con-
tinued a most active and useful member of that body for
several successive sessions, and was the first President of
the House of Clerical and Lay Deputies, after the Bishops
constituted a separate house in 1789.
John Moore, a brother of William, and grandfather of
the Bishop, was a wealthy and respectable merchant of
New York. He was, at one time, an Alderman of the
city, for many years a member of the colonial Legislature,
and at the time of liis death colonel of one of the New
York regiments, and a member of the King's Council for
the Province. Dying in 1749 at the age of 03, he is said
to have been the first person buried in Trinity Church-yard,
where so many thousands have since found their last re-
pose. The family vault still remains, and the title to this
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 13
resting place of the ashes of his fathers was held by
Bishop Moore at the time of his decease. John Moore
married Frances Lannbert ; they became the happy parents
of eighteen children, among whom were three pairs of twins.
The descendants of Mr. Moore became connected by mar-
riage with the Bayards, Hoffmans, Livingstons, Onderdonks,
Baileys, Tredwells, and Rogers's, who then, as now, were
ranked among the most respectable families in New York.
Stephen, the seventeenth child, was the proprietor of
West Point, the site of our national Military Academy.
After selling this property to the United States, he removed
to North Carolina. At the time of the invasion of the
Southern States by the British troops in 1779, he com-
manded a regiment of militia, and was, afterwards, taken
prisoner at the battle of Camden. Being in due time ex-
changed, he returned to his beautiful residence, Mount
Tirzah, in North Carolina, where he died, leaving in that
state a highly respectable family.
The seventh of the thirteen sons of John Moore, and the
one with whom our narrative is more directly concerned,
was Thomas Moore, the father of the subject of the pre-
sent memoir. He was born in 1722, and being sent to
England for an education, received his scholastic training
amidst the high advantages afiforded by the discipline and
instructions of Westminster School. On the completion of
his course of studies, he returned to his native country, at
about the age of twenty-one years, and engaged in com-
mercial pursuits as a merchant in the city of New lork.
The troubles of the revolution coming on, brought with
them a series of disasters and misfortunes, which led him
to retreat to West Point, where he lived with his family in
quiet retirement, (it being on what was called the neutral
ground,) during the early part of the revolutionary war.
14 MEMOIR OF THE
But at length, as we shall have occasion to state, more par-
ticularly, in the sequel, the footsteps of a plundering army
invaded his peaceful habitation — he and his helpless family
were driven out from their own tireside — homeless and
pennyless — 'the world before them, and Providence their
guide !' In this destitute condition he returned to the city,
where, having obtained an appointment in the Custom
House, he lived in comfort until the conclusion of the war.
After the restoration of peace, and the full establishment
of our independence, a change of government having de-
prived him of the office from which his support was derived,
he retired to spend the remainder of his days with his be-
loved daughter, the wife of General Huntington, in New
London, Connecticut. There, under the influence of pul-
monary consumption, his strength and health gradually
wasted, till, supported by the consolations of Christian faith,
and in the communion of the Church, he departed this life
on the 19th June, 1784. In the spring of 1785 his remains
were removed to New York, and deposited in the family
vault, in Trinity Church-yard, by his son, the late Bishop of
Virginia, then a resident of that city.
Elizabeth Channing, the wife of Thomas Moore, and
mother of the late bishop, was of highly respectable paren-
tage. Being left an orphan at the early age of two years,
she was carefully brought up in the family of her uncle,
John Pintard, Esq. She was highly accomplished ; having
received the most finished education, and being accustomed
to mingle freely in the best society to be found in her na-
tive city. In her all the polish and dignity of a lady of
" the old school" appeared in combination with a most
amiable disposition, remarkable soundness of judgment,
firmness of purpose, and strong good sense — all adorned
and sanctified by the graces of a fervent and exemplary
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 15
piety. To the religious instructions and lovely Christian
example of his sainted mother, Bishop Moore often delighted
to revert with tears of gratitude in his eyes and a bosom
swelling with filial afTection and reverence. To her early
nurture and admonition of him in the ways of the Lord,
he ascribed, under God, all his happiness and usefulness in
this world, and his hopes of a blessed immortality in the
next. He had the pleasure of ministering to her support
and solace in her declining years, until she entered upon
her eternal rest, at his house, on Staten Island, the 7th of
December, 1805, in the 78th year of her age.
It has been truly said that so far as relates to intellec-
tual and moral character, " the boy is father of the man."
We regret that but few written memorials are to be found
which give any information respecting the childhood of the
subject of this memoir, and there are no surviving com-
panions of his early years whose memory of facts will
enable us to supply the deficiency. The few incidents we
have been able to gather from other brief sketches of his
life, from the Bishop's letters, and from the statements of
his only surviving sister, will, however, serve to show that
in the promise of childhood there was the earnest and seed
of the virtues and excellencies which were fully developed
in maturcr years.
While he was yet an infant in the nursery, his pious
mother, who, like Hannah, had devoted her son to the
Lord, faithful to the engagements entered into on his be-
half when he was received info the Church by Holy Bap-
tism, considered him as one of the lambs of Christ's flock ;
and laboured by every means to impregnate his budding
character with the principles of religion and lead hin^ to
an early acquaintance with Ilim who said, *' Suffer the
little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for
16 MEMOIR OF THE
of such is the kingdom of heaven." The humble efforts
of this Christian mother, Hke those of Lois and Eunice,
were not in vain. The good seed sown in her instructions
was matured by her prayers and tears; and of Bishop
Moore, as of Timothy, it might be said that from a child
he knew those Holy Scriptures which are able to make
men wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
Often did he, in advanced age, advert with sentiments of
devout gratitude to the benefits derived from the lessons of
maternal love ; and in the last summer of his life he was
heard to say, with deep and grateful emotion, " I was a
pious child." Under the hallowed influence of his mother's
teaching, example and prayers, we may believe that God
was not only laying the foundation of the superstructure
of personal holiness and virtue in his private character, but
was also, (perhaps unconsciously to the subject of it,) train-
ing his faculties and affections for that work of the Gospel
ministry to which the greater part of his future life was
so successfully devoted. While he was yet an infant prat-
tler, unable to speak intelligibly, he was in the habit of
gathering his little sisters and brothers around him, and
with his apron put on inversely as a substitute for a sur-
plice, " keeping church," as he called it, and imitating, as
well as he could, the different parts of the services of the
sanctuary. At a very early age he evinced not only a de-
cided taste for elocution, but also a more than ordinary
talent for public speaking. This talent and taste were often
exhibited for the amusement of his mother's visiters in his
happy recitations of hymns and other pieces previously
committed to memory for the purpose. Who can tell but
that the Holy Spirit might have imparted to his infant
mind early intimations of a future call to the sacred office?
Who shall say that this interesting boy when "keeping
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 17
church" with his infant congregation, or delivering pious
sentiments in the presence of his seniors, may not have had
impressed upon his infant mind an idea of his future occu-
pation, and possessed, in embryo, the same emotions which
filled his bosom when, in after life, he led the devotions of
the faithful, and listening thousands hung with rapture on
his lips? The writer is inclined neither to superstition nor
fanaticism, but yet speaks from experience in expressing
the opinion that sometimes in the days of childhood, and
that, perhaps, a giddy and thoughtless one, there are vivid
anticipations of future occupation in the sacred office, and
strong impressions leading to an involuntary training for it,
in the absence of all encouragements to it from without,
which can only be accounted for by ascribing them to a
mysterious influence of the Holy Spirit upon the mind in-
dicative of God's purposes in reference to the future life of
the individual.
In the case of young Moore, there was doubtless on the
part of his mother a wish to strengthen every serious im-
pression, and encourage every holy desire that might be
produced in his mind. Her Christian associations and
habits were also adapted to produce the happiest influence
upon the forming character of her son. She was one of a
number of pious ladies who were in the practice of meet-
ing weekly, at each other's houses in rotation, for the pur-
poses of social worship and religious edification. Those
meetings were often attended by some one of the clergy ;
most frequently by Rev. Dr. Ogilvie, one of the min-
isters of Trinity Church, who is represented to have been
a man of exemplary piety and zeal, fervently devoted
to the spiritual improvement of the people committed to
his charge. This pious band of Christian sisters, in imita-
tion of the example of the devout centurion whose "prayers
18 MEMOIR OF THE
and alms went up together as a memorial before God," were
accustomed, as a fitting close of their religious services, to
make a contribution for some charitable object. It is pro-
bable that Richard Channing was often permitted to be
present in this devout circle, especially when it was assem-
bled under his paternal roof: nor is it unreasonable to be-
lieve that what he then witnessed of the happy influence
of those social religious services, upon his mother and her
fellow-worthippers, produced in his youthful mind such a
strong conviction of their usefulness as led him to be their
decided friend and advocate during the whole course of his
protracted ministry. We know not precisely the nature
of the services performed at those social meetings ; but pre-
sume they very much resembled the Bible Class and Lec-
ture-room services of the present day. And where is the
clergyman to be found who is in the habit of meeting por-
tions of his people for such social exercises, who does not
prize them as among the most valuable means which he
can employ for advancing the interests of intelligent piety
and fervent devotion in the Church of God ?
The faithful Pastor will imitate the example of the
" Good Shepherd," who said "suller the little children to
come unto me, and forbid them not ;" and his official
fidelity may be proved by the same test to which Peter's
profession of love was subjected : " Simon, son of Jonas,
lovest thou me? Feed my lamhs? Dr. Ogilvie mani-
fested the true spirit of the Christian ministry in fervent
love for the youth and children pertaining to his charge,
and in his assiduous cflorts to promote their spiritual wel-
fare and lead them early into the path of life. The sub-
ject of this memoir was not only a constant attendant upon
the catechetical instructions of his Pastor, but, what was
remarkable in one so young, was a frequent visiter at his
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 19
study, and found satisfaction and delight in his society.
Would that we had some record of those interesting inter-
views between that faithful minister of Jesus and his infant
parishioner ! It would probably furnish us with some val-
uable lessons as to the best mode of training the tender
mind to wisdom and virtue. It might serve to show that
the experienced teacher discovered in his pupil clear indi-
cations of divine influence and teaching, while as yet the
child himself was ignorant thereof; as Eli perceived that
the Lord had called Samuel, though the infant prophet
knew it not himself. There are doubtless many instances
to prove that the work of the Holy Spirit upon the heart
and character of an individual becomes manifest to others
before it is perceptible to the subject of it: as the face of
Moses shone, so that the children of Israel were dazzled
by its lustre, while Moses was himself unconscious that any
change had passed upon his countenance. Bishop Moore
would sometimes, in advanced life, refer to his familiar and
affectionate intercourse with the spiritual guide of his child-
hood, with grateful acknowledgments of the benefit thence
derived, and the pleasing recollection that he was, even at
that early period, a recipient of the influence of Divine
grace : which was evidenced by those fruits of the Spirit —
a love of prayer and the other duties of religion.
His literary and classical education was acquired under
the careful instruction of Mr. Alexander Leslie, Professor
of Languages in King's (now Columbia) College, New
York. We have no means of ascertaining the extent or
variety of his studies in the arts and sciences : but presume
that his education was as liberal as was then common to
young gentlemen destined to professional life, and that his
acquisitions were rapid; he having finished his preparatory
course at the age of sixteen years.
XU MEMOIR OF THE
About the commencement of the revolutionary war, his
fat her, having abandoned commercial pursuits in the city
of New York, retired with his family to the old country-
seat at West Point. In that place of retirement from the
dangers and excitements incident to a state of war, the
subject of our memoir passed about a year and a half of
his boyish days in the happy society of his brothers and
sisters, often engaged in those rural occupations and sports
so grateful to the taste of childhood and youth, and sur-
rounded by the most sublime and lovely scenery which our
country contains. The following letters to two of his chil-
dren will show the vivid impression p( by-gone joys upon
his mind on visiting this sequestered spot after the lapse of
more than half a century.
LETTERS DESCRIBING A VISIT TO WEST POINT.
New York, August 10th, 1833.
My Dear Crissy ; — Although but a few days have elapsed
since I last wrote, still as I have since that period made an
excursion to the Highlands, and have visited the site of
my grandfather's country seat at West Point, at which I
passed eighteen months of my boyhood, I hasten to com-
municate the circumstance to you ; at the same time to in-
form you of a continuance of my health.
Last Thursday I embarked in the steamboat, with
Fanny and Mary Ann, in company with my nephew
Thomas Moore, and reached West Point before 1 o'clock ;
but being fatigued, 1 postponed my visit to the retreat of my
father in 1775, until yesterday morning : when, attended by
my daughters, Dr. Lyell and wife, Thomas Moore and
several strangers, I walked to Moore's folly, as it was once
called, and found the house totally gone 5 but perfectly re-
LIFE OF BISHOP aiOORE. 21
collected the spot on which it once stood, and to my pleas-
ing surprise, found one old English cherry tree remaining,
the relic of former times. One of the gentlemen ascended
the tree and took from it part of an old branch, which I
have in my pocket, and to which I intend to affix a label
and hang it up in my study. It was surprising to perceive
the pleasure discoverable in the countenances of several
gentlemen, who went with me ; and who had been informed,
that I had resided on that spot fifty-seven years gone by;
among whom was Professor Rodgers of William and Mary
College.
The walk was fatiguing, but I went and found the same
road, over which I had trodden many and many a time,
with a heart as gay as a lark, and a step as brisk as a deer.
The associations of early life burst upon me, with great
force, but when I recollected that my beloved parents, and
every soul but one of all the family, beside myself, were in
eternity, the pleasure I should otherwise have enjoyed was
sensibly checked. Betsey Livingston was born there — and
she and your father are the only remaining relics of that
day either in kitchen or parlour. The inclination I had
to tread on that ground, consecrated by filial- recollections,
the seat of so much juvenile happiness, and in which 1
partook so largely of a mother's care and love, forced me
to inspect its retired walks : and having complied with the
pleadings of my heart, I have bidden it adieu ; and shall
soon unite in a better retreat, with those, who once occu-
pied that family ground ; and whose spirits I trust are now
reposing in perfect quiet in the bosom of the God they
loved.
Perhaps, my child, you may not be able to enter fully into
your father's feelings on such a subject : unless you recur in
recollection to that spot, in which you first drew the breath
22 MEMOIR OF THE
of life ; and on which your dear departed mother bade an
adieu to you, to me, and to the world, and ascended on
angels' wings, to the arms of her divine Redeemer. May
God, who is rich in mercy, prepare us all to meet our rela-
tives in peace, beyond this vale of tears.
When at West Point, I was visited by young Harvie J.
Ellis and James Carter; the latter of whom I saw on guard
in the encampment, with a musket on his shoulder. They
were all well and in good spirits and delighted to see me.
Should you see their friends, they no doubt will be gratified
to hear of them.
Remember me in much love to all who inquire after me,
and when you write, let me know how matters stand in
Church and at home. With love to Sally, Eliza and house-
hold,
Believe me your affectionate father,
Richard Chaining Moore.
P. S. David has been with me two hours, and has re-
turned home this moment. Mr. and Mrs. Pendleton visited
me this morning — they are well, I have promised to visit
them at the Fort. Let Mr. Nelson know I have seen
them. All here send their love.
New York, August 21st, 1833.
My Dear Daughter, — My former letters have been direct-
ed to your sister Crissy, under the impression, that you as
well as she, would peruse them, and with the confidence
that it was a matter of no particular importance to whom
addressed ; but lest you should indulge the least suspicion
that you were overlooked, I now direct this to you ; and
must request my dear Crissy to consider it a piece of joint
property. My last letter embraced the history of my visit
to West Point, and involved in it an account of the tender
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 23
recollections to which that visit gave rise. I there passed,
I think, eighteen months, at a period of life when no heavy
cares press on the mind, and we feel as cheerful as the face
of nature appears, and as happy as the feathered songsters
of the woods. Since that era I have experienced much
trouble and anxiety : my parents have passed into eternity,
and other severe trials have befallen me : comparing the
ease I then enjoyed, and of which every object informed
me, with the checkered scenes of subsequent life, it raised
emotions in my bosom which I want language to express ;
and in the edition I gave Crissy of the adventure, and in
the perusal of which I shed many tears, my feelings were
such as I cannot well describe. Should you live to be as
old as your father, who this day commences his seventy-
second year, you will be better qualified to judge of such
things, than you can now possibly be ; and you will then
recollect that what you then feel, has been experienced by
those who lived before you. To-day I dine with Dr.
Milnor, to-morrow with INlr. Ridgway, our former Consul
in the Island of St. Croix, and on Friday with Dr. Lyell.
I expect to preach on Sunday morning at St. Stephen's;
and on Monday to lay the corner-stone of a new church in
the city, and to deliver an address on the occasion. Your
brothers David and Channing, the latter of whom has gone
to visit his friend Hallam at New-London, are to be with
me ; and we expect to go to Staten Island on Tuesday.
On Friday it is my present purpose to start for Philadel-
phia, where I shall remain a few days with my dear Ger-
trude, and then bend my course to Richmond. Should
anything occur to arrest me in my progress to the South,
I shall apprize you of it ; so that you may not be disap-
pointed on the subject of my return. Mr. Cook has re-
quested me to sit for my portrait : which I have done three
24 JIEMOIR OF THE
times; and expect to give him another sitting to-morrow,
when I presume he will finish his work. It is thought a
likeness, but I shall be better qualified to decide on the
subject myself after to-morrow. I sincerely sympathize
with my dear friend Martha Chamberlayne ; but, as I am
sensible her little girl is much better provided for, than she
could have been in this world, I hope she will bend with
resignation to the dispensation of Providence, and remember
that she will again see her, with her harp tuned to praise,
and with the ability to join in anthems of joy with the
triumphant host of heaven. I intend to address her on the
subject, if not prevented by company, as soon as I finish
this letter. Last Sunday I passed in Amboy, where I
preached twice, and in the evening went to the Miss
Parkers, where, with all the members of that family, at
least twenty in number, I spent a devotional evening, and
closed with a prayer for the blessing of heaven upon them
all. It was a devotional, melting evening. I sincerely hope
that you are both in good health, and with my prayers for
your health and happiness, and for the happiness of all my
friends, especially my child Betsey Heath and husband and
family.
Believe me, my dear daughter, your friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
In contrast with the peaceful and joyous recollections re-
corded in the foregoing letters, we will here relate an in-
cident previously adverted to, well adapted to illustrate the
barbarities inseparable from war even when under the con-
duct of civilized and Christian nations.
The father of the peaceful family at West Point had
left home to visit a friend at a distance; and during his ab-
sence, a British frigate ascended the Hudson river with a
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 25
view of capturing Fort Montgomery. General Clinton, of
the British arnny, with the forces under his command, had
previously visited the residence of the Moores, committing
such acts as are common with a foraging party when inva-
ding the domains of an enemy. The soldiers, however,
were content with committing depredations out of doors.
They robbed the garden, took possession of the poultry, and
killed a cow which was feeding in the orchard ; but offered
no personal violence to the members of the family, nor even
attempted to invade the sanctuary of the domicil. But
when the seamen landed from the frigate, they immediately
entered the house, and, with ruthless violence, tore up the
carpets, stripped the beds, stole the tea-spoons from the
table where the family were seated at their evening meal,
and without restraint carried on the work of indiscriminate
pillage. One of the band of depredators, more savage than
the rest, with fiendish cruelty and dastardly cowardice, pre-
sented a fixed bayonet at Mrs. Moore's breast, threatening
the life of an unprotected mother surrounded by an inter-
esting group of weeping and helpless children ! The con-
sternation of the family may easily be imagined. They
fled to Mr. Charles Moore's for protection, where they re-
mained till they could return with safety to their own
abode. Even if we admit it to be necessary in the prose-
cution of war sometimes to invade the domicil and plun-
der the property of private and peaceful individuals, yet
surely, the bright escutcheon of the soldier should never be
tarnished with acts of cruelty and oppression to helpless
women and children. In this case, the outrage was per-
petrated not upon an enemy, but a friend : (for the Moores
were favourable to the royal cause,) it was the brutal act
of an infuriated, unrestrained body of men, who deemed it
their business and privilege to commit all sorts of violence
b2
2d memoir of the
upon those whom they supposed hostile to the crown in
whose service they were enlisted. General Clinton made
an ample apology for the assault, severely reproved it, and
caused the valuable plunder to be promptly restored to the
injured family.
At the time of the above outrage upon his paternal
home, the subject of this memoir was in the city of New
York; and as yet, perhaps, undetermined as to his future
avocation in life. Under the temporary influence of a wild
and romantic desire to visit other countries and see the
world, (so common in youths at that age,) he made trial of
a sea-faring life ; which, however, he very soon relinquished,
and devoted himself to the study of medicine.
His medical education was prosecuted under the direc-
tion of Dr. Richard Bayley, one of the most distinguished
physicians of his day. The advantages he enjoyed under
the tuition of this gentleman were probably equal to any
which could be commanded at that early period, — so long
before medical schools or colleges were instituted, with their
associated professorships, for the education of young aspi-
rants in the Esculapian art. Dr. Bayley had the reputa-
tion of being the most eminent surgeon in New York, and
young Moore is said to have been quite a proficient in this
branch of his profession. After the completion of his stu-
dies, he commenced his career as a practitioner of medi-
cine in the city. But finding, probably, as most young be-
ginners do, that it was difficult to maintain a rivalry with
older physicians of established reputation, and more diffi-
cult to obtain a support amidst the wide competition for
practice in a large city, he soon removed to the eastern
part of Long Island, to seek his fortune there. But, after
a brief residence at his new location, without a result an-
swerable to his expectations, he returned to the city, and
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 27
resumed his practice there, favoured with brighter pros-
pects, and with encouraging success. At the age of twenty-
two he was married to Miss Christian Jones, of New York,*
who continued to be a faithful and affectionate wife to him
for twelve years. She was his chief domestic comfort-
soothing him amidst the toils, and rejoicing with him in the
pleasures and rewards of his earlier ministry on Staten
Island. She departed this life in April, 179G,
It is not unfrequently the case that the fair promise of
early piety is not realized and confirmed by the develop-
ment of character in maturer years. The buds and bios-
soms of grace put forth in childhood are often nipped and
withered before manhood comes. Many a pastor has been
forced to mourn over some who in the morning of life en-
tered upon the Christian race, and " ran well for a season,"
but were afterwards " hindered," and perhaps utterly turn-
ed out of their course by the adverse influence of a corrupt
and tempting world. Many a parental heart has been
stung to agony, and made to weep in bitterness, by the
worldliness if not open viciousness, of some wayward child,
upon whose opening virtues it had gazed with pleasure,
and over whose future prospects fancy had spread its fair-
♦ Dr. Moore first saw this lady in Trinity Church, and being smitten with
her beauty, followed her after the congregation was dismissed, determined
to form an acquaintance with her. Falling in with an old friend, he urged
him to introduce him to the lady. This, however, was declined, on the
ground that the gentleman himself had not the pleasure of her acquaint-
ance. Still bent upon the accomplishment of his purpose, when the lady
entered her father's residence, young Moore, turning to his friend, said
"Do you know who lives in that house ]" The reply was, " Mr. Jones,
an acquaintance of mine." " Then I insist upon it that you shall go in
and give me an introduction to the family, or I shall be under the disagree-
able necessity of introducing myself." He was accordingly introduced.
Personal acquaintance deepened his first impressions : and Miss J. soon
yielded her heart and hand tj so ardent and persevering a suitor.
28 MEMOIR OF THE
est visions. In some melancholy instances there is an utter
blighting of all the good seed of life so as to forbid the
hope that it will ever bring forth fruit unto salvation. In
other instances the seed is only " choked" for a season by
the " tares" of worldly wealth, honours, or pleasures ; but
when these are plucked up, it will spring forth vigorously,
and yield fruit in perfection, " first the blade, then the ear;
after that the full corn in the ear."
The case of young Moore resembled the latter rather
than the former of these instances. A large city, at any
time, presents numerous and powerful temptations to evil,
which are with difficulty resisted, even by the firmest vir-
tue, when found in association with the ardent imaginations
and strong passions of youth. But the state of society and
the scenes and associations connected with the residence of
a military force in a large city — which, in time of war, is
not only a focus of excitement, but of dissipation and un-
godliness also — are favourable to any thing rather than the
cultivation of piety in the youthful mind. It need not sur-
prise us, therefore, that in the midst of such counteracting
influences, he of whom we write, found his spiritual sensi-
bilities blunted, — lost, in a great degree, his devotional feel-
ings, and permitted himself to be drawn into the vortex of
gay and fashionable life.
While a student and practitioner of medicine, there is rea-
son to fear, he neglected his baptismal obligations by con-
forming to the pomps and vanities of the world ; though
we believe he was not chargeable with open viciousness of
life, and that the religious impressions he received in child-
hood were never entirely effaced. *
* Since the above was written a fact has been communicated by an aged
friend of the Bishop, who knew him well in early life, and confirmed by
a letter from Rev. David Moore, D. D., (the Bishop's eldest son,) who had
LIFE OP BISHOP MOOKE. 29
« He who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith
he loved us, when we were dead in sins," often preserves us
when we deserve to perish. When we become unmindful
of his covenant, grieve his Spirit, and alienate ourselves
from his ways, he might justly leave us to follow our own
courses, and to perish in our own devices. But such is not
the manner of God with men. He hath no pleasure in the
death of the sinner, but is constantly inviting him to turn
and live. Even when Israel had " caused him to serve with
their sins, and wearied him with their iniquities," he ex-
claimed, " I, even I am he that blotteth out thy transgres-
sions for mine own sake ; and will not remember thy sins."
He waits for the return of his prodigal child ; yearns over
heard his father speak of the event with humiliation and sorrow, that com-
pels me to qualify the statement in the text. However he might have been
preserved from other vices, the subject of this memoir had fallen into the
low and inexcusable habit of profane swearing, of which he was cured
by the remonstrances and prayers of his pious wife. Not long after his
marriage he returned home, about tea-time, in a state of excitement on ac-
count of some outrage he had received. The servant, who was about set-
ting the table, in bringing in the waiter, either from carelessness or by ac-
cident, let it fall, and the contents were dashed to pieces. He gave expres-
sion to his feelings in such language as shocked the pious sensibilities of
Mrs. Moore to such a degree that she immediately left the room and retired
to her chamber. When the tempest of his wrath had in some measure
subsided, he followed her, and was distressed to find her dissolved in tears.
On his inquiring why she was thus disquieted and wept 1 her reply was,
that the language which she had heard from his lips was such as to dis-
turb her peace, and excite her warmest, sympathies for his soul. As God had
declared, in the plainest terms, that He would not hold him guiltless who
taketh his name in vain — she trembled for the consequences, and at the
time he entered her chamber, was engaged in supplicating that grace which
would convince him of his error, and lead him, as a penitent sinner, to
choose that God and Saviour who was the solace of her heart, and her por.
tion forever. Dr. Moore was exceedingly affected by this earnest expostu-
lation from the lips of her whom he loved so sincerely ; he promised an
immediate abandonment of the odious habit : and there is reason to be-
lieve that this prepared the way for that gracious change of heart and life
which he soon afterwards experienced.
MEMOIR OF THE
him with all the tenderness of divine compassion ; and is
ever ready to magnify the riches of grace in bringing him
to repentance and salvation. About the year 1785 the
spiritual slumber into which Dr. Moore had fallen was dis-
turbed ; his mind was deeply exercised upon the subject of
religion ; and the pious feelings, desires, resolutions and af-
fections of his earlier life were reproduced in more than
their original strength and energy.
The following striking incident in relation to this period
of his religious history, is the most important fact which we
have been able to gather from the enfeebled recollections
of his only surviving sister. Being one day in a barber's
shop, for the purpose of having his hair dressed according
to the fashion of the time, he carelessly opened a Bible
which was lying upon a table, and the first passage upon "
which his eyes rested was the searching interrogatory which
the Lord Jesus addressed to that prince of persecutors who
became afterwards the prince of Apostles : " Saul, Saul,
WHY PERSECUTEST THOU ME?" The cifcumstance was appa-
rently a trifling and accidental one. But it startled him.
It appeared to him, doubtless, as a message from God,
though it had come at an unexpected time, and under un-
wonted circumstances. An impression was, we may well
believe, thus produced upon his mind which he could not
readily shake off. An arrow of conviction had pierced his
heart which could be extracted only by the hand of par-
doning mercy. Let him go where he would : and whether
engaged in the cares of professional business, or whirling in
the giddy circles of worldly pleasure, the awful appeal
of his neglected and injured Master would be still ringing
in his ears : " Why persecutest thou me .?" It would inter-
rupt his enjoyments by day and disturb his slumbers by
night; so that he could find neither rest nor peace, till,
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOKE. 31
bowing in the spirit of penitence and submission at the foot
of the cross, he inquired, like the subdued and converted
Apostle, " Lord, what wilt thou have me to do J?"
We have no further facts or materials which would
enable us to gratify the curiosity of the reader by a more
particular narrative of this work of grace in the heart of
Dr. Moore. He has left no written record of his experience
at this interesting epoch of his life, nor have we the means
of ascertaining the precise time when he first entered into
full communion with the body of Christ's faithful people
by a reception of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper.
But that a change did take place in his religious feelings
and character — a change in the views, desires and affections
of his mind — and in the purposes and habits of his life — a
change so great and radical as to be properly styled a con-
version, or new creation, the whole course of his future
history leaves no room for the shadow of a doubt. The
fruits of the Spirit, so clearly manifested in his temper and
conversation, afforded the best evidence of a renovated
heart. And the frequency and earnestness with which he
enforced the indispensable necessity of conversion, gave in-
dications, sure and convincing, that the doctrine of Scrip-
ture on this point had been confirmed to him by his own
personal experience.
From the period above named we must look upon the
subject of this sketch as standing before us in a new atti-
tude, bearing a new character, and sustaining a nearer
and more sacred relation to the Church of God. He has
entered upon a new life : — a life of faith in the Son of God.
He is animated by new principles ; even those of the " man
in Christ," the adopted child of God. He is devoted to
new objects : even the salvation of men, and the glory of
his Lord and Saviour. Henceforth, we are to behold him
;y4 MEMOIR OF THE LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE.
as one of the Lord's redeemed, — living, not unto himself,
but unto him who died for him and rose again. From this
period we contemplate him as one who feels that he is not
his own, but has been bought with a price ; and therefore
strives to glorify God in his body and spirit which are his.
And, if we are not mistaken in the estimate formed of his
character from an intimate acquaintance with it for many
years, seldom has it fallen to the lot of poor frail humanity
to afford a lovelier display of gentleness and meekness, of ten-
derness and affection, of devotion and charity, of simplicity
of purpose and energy of action, of fervent zeal and con-
scientious fidelity in the discharge of professional service
and the duties of the social relations, than was exhibited,
through the sanctifying influence of divine grace, in the
long life by which our departed father was permitted to
glorify God.
CHAPTER II.
From 1787 to 1809.
Immediate change of purpose as to his profession after conversion.- Re-
views his classical studies. Enters upon preparation for Holy Orders.
Ordained Deacon. His Sermon on the Fiftieth Anniversary of his Ordi-
nation. His ministry at Rye. Intimacy veith John Jay. His removal to
St. Andrew's Church, Staten Island. Practises medicine and teaches a
school to aid in the support of his family. Letters to his children. Death
of his wife, and letters occasioned thereby. His second marriage. His
first attempt at extempore preaching, and sutisoquent success in it. Anec-
dote illustrative of his fidelity in pastoral iluty; — another, showing his
humanity. Remarkable revival of religion. The character and success
of his ministry on Staten Island.
After the memorable change in his religious character
and views, referred to in the concluding part of the preced-
ing chapter, Dr. Moore not only withdrew from all the vain
pleasures and corrupting amusements of the world, but felt
less interest in its lawful occupations, and soon resolved to
relinquish the secular profession in which he was then suc-
cessfully engaged. To employ the resources of skill, science,
and a cultivated intellect, under the guidance of a tender
and sensitive heart, in soothing the pains and healing the
maladies to which the human body is liable, may properly
be esteemed a highly benevolent occupation, involving the
sacrifice of much personal comfort, and the exercise of much
self-denial for the benefit of others. There is nothing in it,
so far as we know, incompatible with that devotion to God
required by the spirit of the sacred office. The minister of
the Gospel, whether the field of his labour be in a Chris-
tian or Heathen land, may, (if it may be done without in-
c
34 MEMOIR OF THE
fringing upon the duties of his loftier vocation,) as the
subject of this memoir did for a season, employ his know-
ledge of medicine in the healing of the body, in subordina-
tion to his higher labours for the salvation of the soul. In
a Christian country, except under very peculiar circum-
stances, the combination of the two offices would be inex-
pedient and improper ; but the opinion entertained by many
that it would enhance the usefulness of missionaries in un-
enlightened heathen nations, is entitled to consideration.
St. Luke was probably none the less distinguished for love
to the Master, and fidelity in his service — and none the \es9
qualified for usefulness as an Evangelist because he bore
the appellation of " the beloved physician."
Far be it from us, however, to place the high office of
an ambassador of Christ upon a level with any secular pro-
fession, however useful and benevolent it may be, or to
countenance the opinion that a minister of God may engage
in the duties of any other calling as a means of support, or
to increase his reputation, or from any other motive than
that of rendering it subservient to his holy calling, by open-
ing a readier way of access for the Gospel and giving
increased efficiency to his labours for the salvation of souls.
We believe that a call to the ministry involves a separa-
tion of the individual so called from all secular pursuits and
occupations; the relinquishment of all strong regard to
pecuniary emolument and worldly distinction ; and the con-
secration of the whole man to the work of the Gospel and
the glory of God. Such, we are happy to say, was the
view entertained by the subject of this memoir. Soon
after his conversion, he resolved to devote himself fully to
the service of God and his Church. His heart, renewed by
divine grace, and animated by the love of Christ and of
souls, could no longer be content with the occupations of a
LIFK OF BISHOP 3I00RE. 35
secular employment, however honourable ; could no longer
be restrained within the limits of a worldly profession, how-
ever benevolent; but yearned with all the tenderness of a
new-born compassion over the wide-spread miseries of our
fallen race, and panted v/ith an unconquerable desire to
proclaim to his fellow men that precious Gospel which was
the source of his own hope and consolation.
His decision was speedily formed; and there is no ground
for questioning the purity of the motives which led to it.
On the one hand the avenue to wealth and fame was opened
before him. He was respectably established in an honour-
able profession ; his already large practice was constantly
increasing; his patrons w^ere numerous and liberal ; and
there was every prospect that perseverance in his secular
pursuit would be crowned with affluence and professional
reputation — prizes which have strong attractions for the
youthful heart.
On the other hand, the clerical office had no induce-
ments to offer but such as would be repulsive and distaste-
ful to a worldly or ambitious mind. The Church, as the
established religion of an oppressive government, shared in
the odium attached to the yoke which had just been thrown
off. She was made answerable, in some degree, for the
political heresies which were repudiated at the revolution.
The fact that Washington, and Jay, and Hamilton, and
other leaders in the contest for independence, were mem-
bers of her communion, could not disabuse the minds of the
public, and free them from the false impression that her
influence was favourable to monarchy, and adverse to free-
dom. They looked not to her spiritual character, as a
" kingdom not of this world," but to her accidental cha-
racter, as a creature of the state, having a lordly hierarchy
allied to sovereignty, and incompatible with the simplicity
36 MEMOIR OF THE
and equality of a free republic. They viewed not the
Church of Christ, as it really is, a divinely-instituted and
divinely-governed society, which, though planted in all na-
tions, is subject to none; which gives authority and sanc-
tion to law, and at the same time affords security and pro-
tection to individuals in life, and liberty, and fortune ; which
imparts vigour to the arm of righteous government, and at
the same time maintains and vindicates the rights of the
governed ; which bears equal testimony against the usur-
pations of tyranny, and the disorders of licentiousness ;
which, while it interferes not with the civil regulations of
earthly powers, aims to spread over all the hallowed re-
straints of the divine law, and bring them under subjec-
tion to righteousness and virtue.
Even to this day, notwithstanding the striking analogy
which exists between our ecclesiastical organization and
that of the political government of our country, and the
full demonstration that has been afforded, in the more than
half century which has now elapsed, that the Church
operates harmoniously with the state, though perfectly in-
dependent of it; and also exerts a conservative influence
upon our republican institutions; yet even now, men are
to be found whose interest or policy it is to denounce the
Church as hostile to freedom, and monarchical in its tenden-
cies. But soon after the revolution this false view was
much more common than at the present time. The ma-
jority of the Episcopal clergy had deserted their flocks from
attachment to the cause of the crown ; and the few scat-
tered parishes, greatly enfeebled and impoverished by the
vicissitudes of war, were reduced to a state of deep depres-
sion, bordering upon extinction. Before the revolution,
the support of the clergy had been chiefly derived from the
mother country ; but now their only dependence was the
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 3
voluntary contributions of their flocks, few in number, ex-
hausted in finances, dispirited by opposition. Even tiie
incumbents of the city churches could expect nothing more
than food and raiment ; while those who undertook to re-
suscitate the country parishes, had no prospect before them
but self-denial and poverty.
It was under these discouraging circumstances that Dr.
Moore resolved to devote himself to the ministry. Had he
consulted his own love of ease and honour, he might have
shrunk back appalled from the prospect before him. Had
he taken the advice of his worldly friends, they might have
protested against his giving himself to the service of deserted
and impoverished altars. But he " conferred not with flesh
and blood" in deciding a point of duty between himself
and his Maker. He '< trusted that he was inwardly moved
by the Holy Ghost to take upon him the office and work
of the ministry." Under the solemn conviction of this truth
he would exclaim, " Wo is unto me if I preach not the
Gospel !" Constrained by the love of Christ — feeling that
he was not his own, but bought with a price, and must
therefore glorify God in his body and spirit, which were
his — poverty, persecution, shame would have no terrors
for his mind: but he would say, "None of these things
move me : neither count I my life dear unto myself, that I
may finish my course with joy, and the ministry I have re-
ceived of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace
of God."
No sooner had he, under the influence of such pure and
elevated sentiments, determined upon his course, than he
entered heartily upon the work of preparation for the
sacred ministry. He acted not under the influence of that
fanatical impulse which leads many to believe that " igno-
rance is the mother of devotion;" that God is most glorified
c*
38 MEMOIR OF THE
bj sanctifiying dulness to bis service, that they can most
successfully preach the Gospel who are most unskilled
in the wisdom which man teacheth, and have the least
amount of human literature ; and who are not willing even
to admit that God may consecrate human learning to sub-
serv^e the interests of religion — as he did the gold and silver
brought from heathen 'countries to be ornaments of the
Temple at Jerusalem. No. Dr. Moore did not " rush in
where angels dare not tread," without that preparatory
training and study which, by the Divine blessing, would
make him " a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,
rightly dividing the word of truth." His first step was
carefully to revise his classical studies under his former tutor
Mr. Alexander Leslie. We know not under whose direc-
tion he pursued his theological studies, but presume that he
availed himself of the best facilities which the clergy of
New York could afford at that day.
Having completed his preparatory course as a candidate
for orders, he was ordained Deacon in July, 1787, by the
Right Rev. Samuel Provoost, D. D., who had been conse-
crated Bishop for the diocese of New York, in company
with Bishop White, for Pennsylvania, on 4th of February
preceding, by the Archbishop of Canterbury. This was
the first ordination which ever took place in the diocese of
New York. Its little band of six clergymen had just wel-
comed their first Bishop, whose consecration, in company
with Dr. White, and that of Dr. Seabury, obtained a few
years before from the non-juring Bishops of Scotland, gave
to the American Church the canonical number of Bishops
required for an Episcopal College, and, by securing to her
the Apostolical succession, combining two independent
lines of descent, furnished her with the means of perpetuity
and extension, while at the same time it rendered her in-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 39
dependent of all foreign Churches for ordination, as she
had previously become free from their jurisdiction and con-
trol. At this period the organization of our ecclesiastical
communion became perfect and complete. Now, and not
before, the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United
States became an integral member of the mystical body
of Christ — an independent branch of the Holy Catholic
Church.
Dr. Moore's ordination as Deacon took place in St.
George's Chapel, (now Church,) in the city of New York.
In that sacred edifice he had been devoted to God in holy
baptism, there he had renewed his baptismal vow in the
holy rite of confirmation, there he had knelt to receive for
the first time the consecrated symbols of the body and blood
of Jesus, and now, he was permitted before the same altar to
ofTer the higher vows of ministerial dedication. These
sacred and interesting associations made a deep impression
upon his mind, which seemed to become more vivid and
powerful as he advanced in age. Towards the close of
life he was in the habit of making an annual visit to the
scenes of his youthful residence ; and seldom did he do so
without officiating in St. George's. He loved the spot. He
delighted within its hallowed walls — dear to him by so
many precious recollections! — to unite his devotions with
those of the worshipping assembly, and to proclaim to dying
men the message of eternal life. In the year 1837 he
preached in that Church on the occasion of completing the
fiftieth year of his ministerial life. It was an occasion that
called forth all the tenderness and pathos for which he was
so distinguished, and gave full play to the warm aflTections
of his devoted and grateful heart. In his annual visits he
often touched upon the tender reminiscences of earlierdays
with such power as to stir up the souls of his auditors, and
melt them into sympathy and tears.
40 MEMOIR OF THE
The last occasion on which he officiated in St. George's
was Sunday, October 3rd, 1841. By the kindness of my
beloved friend and brother, the rector of that Church, I
am enabled to present a touching account of a most interest-
ing incident of the day as related in a sermon preached by
him in St. Andrew's Church, Staten Island, occasioned by
the decease of his venerated friend.
" In closing this notice of our lamented friend, may I be
allowed to notice a slight, but affecting, incident of recent
occurrence.
" From our long intimacy and friendship it has always
been my desire on his visits to New York to obtain for my
people the privilege of hearing his pleasing and pathetic
annunciations of heavenly truth.
"During the session of the late General Convention I sought
and obtained this favour at his hands. It was the solemn
occasion of our monthly communion, and his discourse (from
the text, ' It is a faithful saying, and worthy of all accepta-
tion that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners,')
delivered almost with the same command of voice, and
earnest and affecting interest of manner, that characterized
his earlier years, was not only delightfully in consonance
with the views that have been presented of the general
character of his pulpit communications, but peculiarly
affecting and impressive by its adaptedness to the duties of
the day.
"While the sacred elements were in the course of distribu
tion, he asked of me a few moments' suspension ; and taking
his place in the desk, he stated to the congregation in a
few emphatic sentences the peculiar feelings of his mind at
that interesting moment. ' Here,' said the venerable
speaker, * in this very Church I was baptized; here I re-
newed my baptismal vows in the rite of confirmation.
Here I first knelt to receive the emblems of the dying love
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 41
of my Redeemer; here I was ordained a deacon, and here
I was advanced to the order of the priesthood. Meeting
with you on this solemn occasion, and standing in this con-
secrated place, these reminiscences of some of the most in-
teresting incidents of my life, at my present advanced age,
and with little expectation of ever again being with yoa,
are to me so deeply affecting that I thought you would
excuse a few moments' interruption of the service, that I
might be allowed, with heartfelt gratitude to my heavenly
Father, thus briefly to advert to them.'
" Little more was added ; but you may easily imagine the
effect of such a communication, brief as it was, delivered at
such a time, and in such a manner, and by such a man.
There were few dry eyes in the congregation ; and it was
well calculated to deepen the impression of his excellent
discourse, and the sacred service by which it was followed.
" To me it is a grateful reflection that the house of God,
which has been the place of my humble ministrations for
the last quarter of a century, had been the scene of my
aged friend's first dedication to God, then of the confirma-
tion of his vows, and his first communion, and afterwards of
his investiture, in two of its grades, with his ministerial com-
mission.
" But our venerable father and friend is gone. Never
again in this world shall we hear that melodious voice,
which, even on the verge of death, lost not its sweetness ;
never again behold that countenance of calm serenity,
which beamed with affection on all around him; that ' hoary
head,' which to him was a crown of glory, being found in
the way of righteousness; that venerable form clothed in
its plain and modest attire, so well befitting his age and
station. He is gone ! Death, the mighty destroyer, has
done his work. But his shaft, though sudden, found him
42 MEMOIR OF THE
not unprepared ; and that goodness and mercy, which had
followed him all his days, permitted him an easy passage
into his eternal rest. If the depressing character of his
disease prevented his saying much, he was privileged to
say enough to satisfy all around him that he was resigned
to the will of God, and ready for the summons.
" It is not so much on the bed of death, where the pros-
tration of the body bears down all the mind's activities,
that we would in general seek our strongest evidences of a
spiritual state. It is to the tenor of the life we resort, as
the surest and the safest test ; and to that we may confi-
dently appeal for a well-grounded assurance that our dear
departed father is now resting in the bosom of his Father
and his God."
Dr. Moore was subjected to but a brief trial in the dia-
conate ; and we arc not informed of the special field of his
labours while he held the lowest order of the ministry. But
having been admitted to priest's orders in September, 17S7,
he was immediately appointed to the pastoral charge of
Grace Church, in Rye, Westchester county, in the diocese
of New York. For his services in this small and feeble
parish he received a salary of three hundred dollars per
annum and his fuel. Out of this stinted stipend he was
obliged to pay thirty dollars for house rent. But notwith-
standing his limited income, which would afford him the
means of procuring but few of the comforts and none of
the luxuries of life, he has been heard to say, that he en-
joyed much peace and happiness in this his earliest paro-
chial connexion. His fidelity and zeal in the discharge of
ministerial duty won the respect, confidence and affection
of his flock. He there secured the attachment of some
warm and valuable friends ; and especially that of the
Hon. Johx Jay, who to the highest qualities of a jurist,
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 43
civilian and statesman, added the graces of a devout and
exemplary follower of Christ : who amidst all the tempta-
tions of diplomacy and politics, maintained a conscience
void of offence, because actuated by religious principles :
who in the whole of his brilliant public career never per-
formed an act which could sully his reputation, or bring dis-
grace upon his holy profession ; and who in the reception of
all the high honours with which his services were rewarded
by a grateful country, was ready to lay them all at the
foot of the cross, and counted them as nothing and less than
nothing in comparison with God's favour which is life, and
his loving-kindness which is better than life. This great
and good man, who was a vestryman of the parish while Dr.
Moore was rector at Rye, cherished ever afterwards a
sincere friendship for him, which was interrupted only by
death. And any minister of the Gospel might consider him-
self honoured in having enjoyed for many years the confi-
dence and affection of such a man as John Jay.
The ministry of the youthful rector in his first parish
was, as we have reason to believe, not only acceptable but
useful.
" The edifice in which the congregation at Rye now
worship, is a monument of his zeal, and a part of the first
fruits of his labours in promoting the temporal as well as
spiritual welfare of the Church, which he so long and so
truly loved : it was by his exertions that the money was
raised with which this church was built."* If we had
access to the register of that parish, or if we could inquire
of any of the surviving attendants upon his services there,
we might probably be able to state facts which would
show that his labours were not without their appropriate
♦ Dr. Hawks.
44 MEMOIR OF THE
results in the edification of that spiritual temple, formed of
lively stones, which God animates by his Spirit: but in the
absence of such information, the success of his subsequent
labours affords ample ground for the conviction that some
veill be gems in his crown of rejoicing who were seals of his
earliest ministry.
At the close of a ministry of about two years at Rye, Dr.
Moore was called to decide upon a change of residence by
an invitation to take charge of St. Andrew's parish, Staten
Island. To prevent those heart-burnings and misunder-
standings which are so apt to arise from an unexpected
sundering of parochial ties, Dr. Moore adopted a prudential
course worthy of imitation by all clergymen under similar
circumstances. He summoned his vestry together, communi-
cated to them the call he had received, and solicited their
friendly advice as to the decision which it would be proper
for him to make in the premises. The confidence thus re-
posed in the vestry was well adapted to disarm prejudice,
and to shield him from reproach. His friend Jay was the
organ of communicating the result of their deliberations ;
which was, that, although the vestry and the parishioners
would deeply regret the loss of his valuable services ; yet,
as his friends, they could not with propriety object to a re-
moval by which, in all probability, the comfort of his family
and his ministerial usefulness would be greatly enhanced.
He was not a stranger to the inhabitants of Staten Island.
On the contrary, he was well known to many of them,
having, while a student of theology, practised medicine
there for a short time. During that period he officiated on
one occasion, as a lay reader in the Church at Richmond,
and a very favourable impression was produced by the
fervent and animated manner in which he performed the
services of the Church. The first sermon he preached on
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 45
the Island was occasioned by the decease of a daughter of
the Rev. Mr. Rowland, rector of the parish. This discourse
was greatly admired, and a vacancy occurring in the rector-
ship soon after, he was immediately selected as the suc-
cessor. By the prudent step above narrated he was
enabled, without alienating in any degree the confidence
and affection of his former flock, to accept this call ; and
he accordingly entered upon his new charge in October,
1789.
The beautiful and romantic island, which was the scene
of his ministerial labours for so many years, situated at the
mouth of the harbour of New York, is about fifteen miles
in length and about ten miles in breadth, and is one of the
most lovely and attractive places of residence that can be
found in the vicinity of that emporium of our country. At
the time of Dr. Moore's removal to it the whole island was
comprised in the parish entrusted to his charge. He was
then in the prime and vigour of life, and the field was ad-
mirably adapted to give full scope to the ardent zeal and
untiring energy which in him were consecrated to the work
of the Gospel. Most assiduously did he cultivate that field
for more than twenty years ; and by the divine blessing upon
his faithful labours much fruit was produced in the salva-
tion of souls, the extension of the church, and the advance-
ment of the glory of God.
At the present time the parish of St. Andrew's, Staten
Island, is one of the wealthiest, and affords one of the
largest ecclesiastical livings to be found in the Union. But
fifty-three years ago its faithful and indefatigable rector, by
reason of the smallness of the salary, felt, in common with
the majority of his clerical brethren then and since, the
" res angusise domi,''' to such an extent as to be compelled
to resort to different expedients for making such an addi-
46 MEMOIR OF THE
tion to his slender stipend as would enable him to meet the
wants of his growing family. At one time he practised
medicine in connexion with his ministerial duties : but the
frequent demands for his medical services so materially in-
terfered with his clerical labours, that he was soon com-
pelled to relinquish the practice. For about seven years,
in compliance with an invitation from the vestry of the
church in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, he officiated once a
fortnight in that parish. At the close of that period, in
1800, the chapel was built on the north side of Staten
Island, and to the advancement of religion at that point,
he subsequently devoted a portion of his time and labours.
In the year 1793 he commenced a school which he con-
tinued to instruct until 1802. The secular employments
he engaged in, innocent as they were in themselves, and
benevolent in their influence, were of course unsuited to
the taste of one who desired to " wait on the Lord without
distraction," and to be wholly given up to the work of
saving souls in the ministry of the Gospel : and we may be
sure that nothing would have reconciled him even to a tem-
porary engagement in them, but the necessity of thus pro-
viding for the comfort of those beloved ones whom Provi-
dence had made dependent on him for their support.
In few men have the feelings of paternal interest and
affection been so strong and vivid as they were in the heart
of Dr. jNJoore. His love for his children began with their
birth, and suflfered no diminution after they had reached
the years of maturity. The same deep interest in their
welfare, \Ahich marked his character as the parent of a few
infant children, — still glowed in the bosom of the hoary
headed patriarch, who could look around upon his numer-
oiis family settled in life as heads of their respective house-
holds : and the current of aflection which came in warm
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 47
and gushing streams from the heart, descended in its free
flowings to his children's children. We have seen some of
his letters to his children, written about the time of which
we now speak, which afford beautiful illustrations of this
lovely trait in his character, and show the tender workings
of a heart ever yearning for the temporal and spiritual
welfare of his offspring.
The following specimens of his domestic correspondence,
addressed to two of his daughters, who were spending some
time with their aunt, Mrs. Davis, at Stratford, Connecticut,
will be gratifying to the reader.
Glebe, Staten IslanJ, June 29, 1802.
Your acceptable favour, my dear Crissy, came duly to
hand, and afforded me that pleasure which your filial at-
tentions have ever produced in my mind. A variety of
duties have prevented me from attending to your commu-
nications as immediately as I could have wished, but my
silence, I trust, has not been misconstrued by my daughter
into a forgetfulness of parental obligation. My children
share largely in my regard, and, I hope, by their virtuous
behaviour, will prov^e a source of great happiness to their
fond father. There is not an hour in which you are not
the subject of my thoughts! Oh, let me beseech you
both, to listen to the counsel and advice of your dear aunt,
and to profit from her maternal admonitions. She is close-
ly connected to you, and, I am sensible, will perform, with
cheerfulness, every duty attached to that connexion ; re-
member how much my peace and comfort is dependent
upon your conduct. My children have the happiness of
their father at command, and it rests with them to make
my life a scene of comfort, or to involve me in inexpressi-
48 MEMOIR OF THE
ble distresf. Behave well, and no exertions shall be want-
ing, within the reach of my abilities, to render you happy.
I have been labouring hard for years to procure you some
little support, in case it should please God to wrest me from
your embrace; and you shall never want that aid whether
I am spared or taken away, which it is in my power to
confer upon you. I mention this circumstance in order to
establish in your minds that claim which I have to your
regard, and to show you that you are bound in justice, as
well as duty, to contribute to my happiness. Keep the
example of your amiable mother in view, and endeavour
to imitate her virtues. Tread in her steps, and you will
secure to yourselves the approbation of your fellow mor-
tals, and the unspeakable pleasures of a quiet mind ! Neg-
lect not the performance of those duties which you owe to
your Creator and Redeemer. Let your prayers be regu-
larly offered up to the throne of divine grace, and show forth
the praises of your God " not only with your lips, but in
your lives." Be attentive to your aged grandfather, do
every thing that will contribute to his comfort, and nothing
that will give him the least pain ; live in love and unity with
your dear cousins, and be obedient to your aunt. I hope
soon to hear from you both, and to find your letters cor-
rect, and well written. Perhaps I shall see you next month.
Present my best regards to your grandpapa, your aunt,
and cousins, and believe me, my dear girls, with the since-
rest regard.
Your friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
P. S. Your mamma and brother send their love and re-
spects to you, and to sister Davis' family. Give my bro-
therly regards to Mr. Baldwin, to whom I beg you to be
LIFE OF BISHOr MOORE. 49
respectful. I hope that you devote a part of every day to
the improvement of your minds. Any assistance that you
may require with respect to dress or pocket money, your
aunt will be pleased to supply you with, and I will repay
her at our first interview.
My Dear Children, — Before I parted with you at Strat-
ford, we had entered into an arrangement of an epistolary
nature : and you both promised that 1 should hear from
you once in a fortnight: but notwithstanding your firm as-
surances, upwards of two months have elapsed, and only
two letters have reached the island. If you were ignorant
of those numerous duties in which I am involved, I should
think that my daughters stood upon ceremony with their
father ; but as you are both sensible how little leisure time
I possess, I cannot allow the thought a place in my bosom.
The/aci must be, that each of you have written at least
half a dozen letters, but through the neglect of the post-
master, they have failed in obtaining their destination ;
this being the case, my children have performed their duty,
and it would be cruel in me to attach the least blame to
either of them. I would advise you, however, to speak to
the post-master, in order that he may take proper mea-
sures to prevent a similar disappointment. Your dear
brother passed the holidays with us. He enjoys good health,
and appears to be pleased with his studies. His behaviour
secures to him the good opinion of all my friends, and num-
bers have expressed the warmest interest in his advance-
ment. Unless death should deprive me of his society, I feel
a high assurance that he will prove a source of very con-
siderable comfort to me. Virtue and discretion form
our road to happiness; the youth who is attentive to their
impressive dictates, will always preserve his own mind in
50 MEMOIR OF THE
serenity, and obtain also the approbation of God, and of
his fellow- mortals. Young people sometimes imagine that
the precepts of their parents are too strict, to merit their
attention and observation ; but were they acquainted with
the world, and could they see the difficulties which lay
before them, they would acknowledge the propriety of ad-
monition, and listen to the dictates of experience. Pa-
rents and friends, in aflfording instruction to those commit-
ted to their charge, can have but 07ie motive, and that is
the benevolent wish to see their children excel in the prac-
tice of every laudable virtue. The vivacity of youth re-
quires a check to keep it within the bounds of prudence.
Children should, therefore, submit to direction, and instead
of being displeased with admonition, they should be grate-
ful to those who mercifully bestow it upon them. You
are at present under the maternal care of an aunt who
loves you ; the aflfection which she entertained for your
dearest mother, she has fixed upon you. She views you
both as the representatives of a beloved sister, and her
heart beats with tenderness for you. Study, therefore, my
dear daughters, study, / beseech you, to make her happy ;
attend to her requests, and let her see that you value her
instructions, by paying an implicit obedience to what she
says. My happiness is suspended upon the thread of my
children ; if they behave well it is all that I desire. Provi-
dence has blessed me with a decent competency ; my only
object, therefore, in this world is to see them amiable, and
I shall be as comfortable as human nature will admit of.
It is by our behaviour in this life, that our happiness in the
next will be proportioned. If we live agreeably to God's
word, eternal joys await us beyond the grave ; if we are
sinful and disobedient, ruin unceasing stares us in the face.
Endeavour, then, to conduct yourselves in such a manner as
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 51
to secure the smiles of your heavenly Father. Remember
with gratitude the mercy and compassion of your Re-
deemer; and show forth his praise, not only with your
lips, but in your lives. How pleasing is the thought of
meeting our departed friends in heaven ; of seeing those
with whom we have lived in love ; and of being established
in the possession of endless and eternal bliss ! Yes, my dear
daughters, if we are not wanting to ourselves, we shall
meet in glory, and enjoy with our God a state of uninter-
rupted happiness. Sorrow and sighing in heaven find no
admission — our harps of praise and gratitude will be ever
strung, and pure unsullied comfort fill and pervade our
bosoms ! Your mother, praised be God, is already there ;
her evidences were as clear as the sun, and her faith in the
promises of God, immoveable ! Prepare to follow her. As
a m,inister of the Gospel, I beseech you to keep your lamps
lit, and as a. father I pray you to tread in the path of duty
and of holiness.
Your friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
His first wife, whose peaceful and triumphant death is
alluded to in the preceding letter, was the mother of the
eldest son, David Moore, and of two daughters, Chris-
tian and Eliza. On the 23rd of March, in the year 1797,
he was married to Miss Sarah Messareau, of Staten Is-
land, who, at her decease, which occurred in August, 1824,
after their removal to Virginia, left six children as the
pledges of their mutual affection : four of whom were
daughters; Gertrude, Sarah, Frances, and Mary Ann: and
two sons ; Van Rensalaer, and Richard Channing. Both
the wives of the late Bishop were not only ladies of dis-
tinguished piety and virtue, but remarkable for great per-
52 MEMOIR OF THE
sonal beauty ; and his nine children still survive him. The
following letters exhibit the state of the Bishop's feelings
on the demise of his second wife.
LETTER 0\ THE DEATH OF MRS. MOORE, TO REV. MR. NORRIS.
Richmond, August 17, 1824.
My Beloved Son, — Your letter of sympathy and condo-
lence reached me in due time, and from the expressions of
tenderness which mark its pages, you have furnished me
vi'ith another, and an acceptable evidence of your regard.
I had formed the idea when a young man, that such a be-
reavement in advanced life, would be attended with less
distres sthan I have found it to be. I had concluded that
as we advanced in years our feelings became less acute,
consequently the pungency of grief less severe ; but expe-
rience has taught me a different lesson, and convinced me
that as long as we live we have much to learn. In early
life our spirits are so buoyant, that we are enabled to view
the brightest part of every scene ; and from the hope of
better days to come, our aiflictions are divested of that
edge, which prostrates in the dust the expectations and
promises of age. In advanced life we become more at-
tached to home, and although from principle, as well as
inclination, we occasionally mingle with the world, still
home is always uppermost in our minds, and furnishes us
with the most delight.
To have our domestic retreat stripped of its enjoyments;
to look, and look in vain, for those with whom we have
been associated for many years, constitute considerations of
a character so formidable and impressive, that nothing
less than experience can present to our view the dreari-
ness of the picture. Afflicting, however, as these events
are, the Almighty, I believe most firmly, intends them for
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 33
our good. Every tie that he is pleased to sever, serves to
break our hold upon this transitory world ; every connex-
ion which he takes from our embrace, provided those con-
nexions are prepared for death, he takes to himself, and by
assuring us that our friends are living in the enjoyment of
happiness in his presence, heaven is brought more fully to
our view. The transition which we must soon experience,
appears to the believer as the transition from one apart-
ment of his father's mansion to another — from an abode in
which sickness and sorrow dwell, to that abode in heaven
where sorrow and sighing find no admission, and where our
departed friends will bid us the most sincere and joyful
welcome. To murmur at the dispensation of Providence
I feel no temptation. The Lord has been so good to me,
my dear son, that 1 should be worse than ungrateful, were
I to dispute his love. I kiss the hand which has dealt this
last blow, and am resigned to His will.
Dr. Wilmer has no doubt related to you the calmness
and composure with which my dear departed wife was
blessed. She was sensible to the last moment. Her mind
was serene and unclouded. Her hopes were bright and
encouraging. Her last words to me were spoken in reply
to a quotation I made to her from the 23d Psalm : " Though
I walk through the valley and shadow of death, I will fear
no evil." She turned to me, and with a smile which pro-
claimed the presence of the God she loved, she said,
" There is no evil there." May we die the death of the
righteous, and may our last end be as tranquil as was her's !
With love to all my friends in Alexandria,
Believe me your affectionate father in Christ,
Richard Chanmng Moore.
54 MEMOIR OF THE
TO HIS SON UPON THE SAME SUBJECT.
August 11th, 1824,
My Dear Son, — The long indisposition of your dear mo-
ther has been brought to a termination ; and she has bid
an adieu to all her ailments, and entered into the joy of
her Lord. The tranquillity and composure with which she
met her dissolution, forms another evidence to the many I
have heard of the power of a saving faith, and of that be-
lief in the promises of God which inspires the soul with
confidence and the mind with perfect assurance in his
word. To the inquiries I repeatedly made of her relative
to the state of her mind, she uniformly assured me that
she had not a doubt of her acceptance with God, and that
her prospects were perfectly clear. When I called her
attention to the declaration of the Psalmist — " Though I
walk through the valley and shadow of death, I will fear
no evil," she looked at me with an eye beaming with life,
and a countenance clothed with a heavenly smile, and then
said, " There is no evil there." Her understanding to the
last moment was undisturbed ; and I do not believe that
her reason left her until the breath left her body. She
placed, a few minutes before her death, her hands upon
her breast ; and from the motion of her lips, it was evident
that she was engaged in prayer; after which she raised
her eyes to heaven, and exclaimed, " Come, Lord Jesus,
come quickly !" She died without the movement of a
finger. In a conversation she held with me the morning
preceding her dissolution, her children formed the objects
of her solicitude ; and she requested me to press religion
upon their consciences. Her funeral was attended with
every mark of respect; and Dr. Wilmer, who had come
upon a visit to me, preached upon the occasion the day
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 55
following, which was Sunday, the 8th inst., from these
words — " Watchman, what of the night ?" Her remains
are interred in my church-yard — the first burial which
has taken place within that solemn enclosure. Thus, my
dear son, am I left alone in my old age. God has blessed
me with a promising family of affectionate children, to
whom I look up with confidence for every return of duti-
ful attention. They have been the subjects of my prayers.
They have cost me many a pang when I have seen them
in distress. They have enjoyed my love without inter-
mission ; and I cannot doubt for a moment their disposition
to make me those returns to which my conduct to them
gives me the most legitimate claim.
Your affectionate father,
Richard Channing Moore.
Soon after Dr. Moore's settlement on Staten Island a
circumstance took place which exerted an important in-
fluence upon his whole future ministry, adding greatly to
its acceptableness and efficiency : I mean one by which he
was driven, without any such purpose of his own, to adopt
the habit of extemporaneous speaking. It was what he
had never attempted while at Rye ; and had never thought
of doing so, because it was not customary with the clergy
of the Church at that day. But he seems to have been
drawn into it against his will. We here recite the facts,
learned from his own lips, as an addition to the many in-
stances on record in which God has employed strange and
apparently trifling incidents as means of accomplishing most
important results. Being at the house of one of his parish-
ioners, where he had been invited to spend the evening,
after tea several of the neighbours came in ; and soon, very
much to his surprise, the master of the house placed a stand
56 MEMOIR OF THE
with a Bible on it before him, at the same time requestin-g
that he would give them a word of exhortation. He found
himself placed in a most embarrassing position. It seemed
very much like the scene exhibited at the house of Corne-
lius, when the devout Centurion, having called together his
near kinsmen and friends, said to Peter, " Now, therefore, we
are all here present before God, to hear all things that are
commanded thee of God." What could be done 1 He was
indeed the ambassador of God, charged with a message of
peace and reconciliation to man ; but he had never pre-
sumed to deliver the heavenly message except in the form
of a written communication. But would it do for him to
dishonour his commission in the view of the people, by
pleading inability to discharge it? Could he answer it to
God, if he were to refuse the word of pious instruction thiis
solicited of him by a waiting assembly ? No ! Necessity
was laid upon him. And he felt that he could not, without
disgrace or guilt, evade the duty thus strangely and unex-
pectedly demanded of him. He might be filled with trem-
bling and fear at the prospect of failure, but there was no
other alternative but to nerve himself for the undertaking.
He gave out a hymn, and while it was being sung, selected
a chapter for exposition, at the same time, doubtless, lifting
his heart in fervent prayer to God for grace to do his duty.
His mouth was opened, and the Lord enabled him, as he
did St.Peter, to preach peace by Jesus Christ, and to say
to his hearers, with tenderness, fidelity and airection, " To
you is the word of this salvation sent."
His success in this first etfort so far exceeded his expecta-
tions, that " he purchased to himself great boldness in the
faith which is in Christ Jesus:" and ever afterwards was
ready to improve every opportunity of usefulness that was
afforded, and whether "in season" or "out of season", to
LIFE OP BISHOP MOOSE. 87
preach the word without fear, relying upon the sure
promises " My grace is sufficient for thee" and " as thy day
so shall thy strength be."
Would it not be well if others of our clergy should, by^,
the like means, be forced into the discovery and exercise of
ministerial gifts which the Lord has conferred upon them,
not to lie idle and unimproved, but to be freely used for the
conversion of sinners and the edifying of the Church.
Bishop Moore was at no period of his ministry a purely
extemporaneous preacher. His sermons were the result of
studious and careful preparation, and his general habit was
to take his manuscripts into the pulpit with him, although
his attention was not much confined to them during the
process of delivery ; and his manner had much of the ease
and animation which characterize that of the extempora-
neous speaker. When he was so far advanced in life as to
render glasses necessary in the use of his written discourses,
some of the most intelligent and pious of his hearers were
accustomed to say, " We are always glad to see him push
his spectacles up ; for we are certain that we shall then
hear something peculiarly impressive." Who that has
ever listened to his lecture-room addresses, or to those fervid
and eloquent appeals after sermons by other preachers,
which he was in the habit of describing as "codicils," and
which he so much delighted in, would hesitate to reckon
them among his happiest efforts ? Their pathos melted the
hearts — their persuasiveness moved the wills and swayed
the decisions of his auditory : and while all gazed with
admiration at those brilliant scintillations which sprung out
hke sparks from the glowing furnace of his soul — the
trembling sinner was incited to flee from the wrath to come,
and the mourning penitent was inspired with consolation
and hope. Under such affecting exhibitions of the gospel
58 MEMOIE OF THE
none could doubt its truth, or fail to realize its power.
Vain would be the attempt to catch the spirit of those
glowing addresses in the lecture-room and the chancel,
which received their charms from the inspiration of the
moment. We might as well attempt to imprint the colours
of the rainbow upon canvass by pressing it against the
cloud, as to transfer such warm and living messages of
truth to paper. To attempt to embody their excellences
in a written address would be to strip them of their highest
beauties. To use a comparison of Montgomery, it would
be like gathering the dew drops in your hand in the hope
that they would retain their brilliancy. While hanging
upon the morning grass and reflecting the rays of the sun,
they sparkle like diamonds of the brightest lustre, but when
gathered and mingled together, there is nothing in their
aspect to distinguish them from common water !
During his residence on Staten Island, Dr. Moore ac-
quired habits of fidelity and zeal which were confirmed
and strengthened, and gave great efficiency to his labours
in subsequent years and other scenes of his devoted minis-
try. He never shrunk from self-denial and hardship, nor
did he ever allow pleasure to interfere with duty. Not
only was he ready to comply with all parochial services by
day ; but, if, as sometimes happened, he were requested in
the night to visit a distant part of the Island to baptize a
sick child, or administer the consolations of religion to a
dying parishioner, he did not hesitate to expose himself to
the inconvenience and danger of a dark and even stormy
ride. This promptness in the discharge of the most try-
ing duties which devolve on a parochial clergyman, was
probably confirmed, if not induced, by an affecting incident
which occurred at an early period of his ministry. '• On
one occasion he was invited to meet a company of highly
tIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 59
esteemed friends at dinner. Just as he was getting into
his gig a messenger arrived from a distant part of the
Island, requesting him to visit a very poor communicant,
who was dangerously ill. Obedient to the call of duty he
relinquished his proposed pleasure, but still with some re-
luctance, wishing that the call of duty had not been made,
and almost incUned to delay it until to-morrow. When
arrived at the humble cottage, he was unusually success-
ful in imparting the consolations of religion, and in quiet-
ing the fears and animating the hopes of his humble friend.
As he knelt on the dirt floor, the grace of God warmed
his affections, and with unwonted fervour he poured forth
his supplications for the dying Christian before the throne
of their common Father and God. As he returned home
late in the evening, with his own faith strengthened and
his Christian graces enlivened, he wept at the thoughts of
the reluctance with which he had gone to so delightful a
duty, and was humbled under a sense of his ingratitude to
that merciful God, who had thus by his very kindness re-
buked him. That night his sick friend died, full of peace and
hope. The Bishop continued to his death to look back to
that evening, spent in the dying Christian's chamber, as per-
haps, the happiest of his life ; and he learned from the oc-
currence a lesson which he did not forget ; never under any
circumstances to postpone duty to pleasure."*
Soon after the death of Bishop Moore, there appeared
in the secular newspapers a thrilling narrative illustrative
of his philanthropy and piety. The act which it records
is worthy of a more permanent memorial than it has re-
ceived from the periodical press ; and the reader will be
gratified by having the original account of the incident
transferred to these pages. It is as follows :
* Rev. Mr. Norwood's address at the funeral of Bishop Moore.
60 UEUOIS OF THB
From the N. Y. Observer.
A REMINISCENCE OF BISHOP MOORE.
Messrs. Editors, — I have read, with interest, your notices
of the death and burial of the late Rt. Rev. Bishop Moore,
of Virginia. No eulogy from so humble an individual as
myself can add any thing to the estimation in which he
was held by the public, — yet I have long owed him a debt
of gratitude which I would repay by any means in my
power. I must therefore solicit the privilege of recording
in your valuable paper a scene of danger and distress in
which the Rev. Richard Moore was made the instrument,
in the hands of God, of saving myself and nine other per-
sons from a watery grave.
Many years ago, before the bridges were built over the
Hackensack and Passaic rivers, it was customary when a
drove of cattle arrived from the eastward for the Phila-
delphia market, to transport them from Whitehall to Eliza-
bethtown point ; and on such occasions, all the ferry boats,
six or seven in number, were collected, in order that the
drove might be transported at one and the same time. It
was on such an occasion, on the 0th day of April, 1793,
that I took a passage in one of the Elizabethtown ferry
boats, in which ten or eleven oxen completely filled up the
hold. There were on board the boat eight male and two
female passengers, and the boatman, named Hiram Hat-
field. The wind was blowing so violently at S. W., and a
strong tide of ebb, that all the boats which preceded us,
thought it dangerous to keep the ship channel, and there-
fore steered immediately across the North river, in order
to gain the shoal water to the west of Gibbet Island. But
our captain, more ambitious and adventurous, determined
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOHE. 61
to avail himself of the strength of the tide in the ship
channel, and in that way outrun his competitors. We had
proceeded down the bay to a point between Robin's reef
and Yellow-hook, on the Long Island shore, when the
turbulence of the waves was so great, and the boat rolled
so heavily to leeward, that much water was taken in over
the gunwale, and the oxen occupied the hold of the boat
so entirely, that no access could be had to the well, where
a scoop was ordinarily used to free the boat from water :
the consequence was, that the boat soon became water-
logged, and not answering her helm, fell off into the trough
of the sea. In order to bring her head to wind, the fore-
sail was lowered, but without effect; and an abortive at-
tempt was made to put her before the wind and run back
to the city; so that we then lay at the mercy of the wind
and the waves, drifting rapidly towards the Narrows. An
attempt was then made to free the boat of the oxen, and
those to windward were cut loose, which only hastened
the sad catastrophe — for the oxen, unable to keep their
feet, sunk down to leeward, and the water then made a
complete cascade over the gunwale. It now became evi-
dent that the boat would fill; bat we had no apprehension
that any part of her would sink — not knowing that there
was a quantity of ballast under the floor of the cockpit
but as soon as the water had reached that part of the boat
it began to settle rapidly, and most of the passengers rushed
forward to the forecastle; I myself ran to the mainmast
and was in the act of ascending by the hoops of the main-
sail, which was still hoisted, when one of the female pas-
sengers, a stout, athletic person of about my own weight,
caught me round the neck, and held me with such a death-
like grasp that she broke my hold of the hoops, and we
both plunged into the billows. My situation at that moment
e2
62 MEMOIR OF THE
appeared without a ray of hope; to unclasp her hands was
impossible ; but through the kind providence o^ God I was
enabled to thrust them over my head, and I immediately
rose to the surface, and found a barrel of oil about twenty
feet to leeward of the boat, (as to the tide,) by which I
sustained myself; but in a moment, the woman whom 1
had left eight or ten feet under water, and whose face I
never expected to see again, rose by my side, (by reason
of the quantity of air in her clothes,) and again attempted
to grapple me ; but dreading such a dangerous contact, I
resigned the barrel to her and swam to the head of the
mainmast, and straddled the gaff of the mainsail, which
was still hoisted, holding on by the halyards. I had not
a moment's time to look round for my fellow passengers, for
I felt a youth of about twelve or fourteen years of age
cUnging to my feet, whom I drew up and placed before me
on the gaff. It was the son of a Mrs. McLean, who had
lived at Whitehall slip. As soon as he could speak, he in-
quired eagerly for his mother — but in looking round I found
she was missing ; and I afterwards learned that she had
tied herself to the leeboard tackle to prevent being washed
overboard, and attempted to tie her son also, but he made
a successful resistance. In looking round for my other
companions in affliction, I found that our brave boatman
had secured six of them on the bow of the boat, not more
than four feet of which was above water. Placing him-
self on the outside of the shivering group, with the boat
rope in his hand, as often as one or another of them was
washed off by the violence of the waves, he would leap
off and restore them to their narrow and precarious rest-
ing place. The woman whom I left at the barrel of oil,
had been driven by the wind within reach of the main-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 63
mast, and seizing hold of the block, she clung- to it until
^e was finally rescued.
We had drifted down below the watering place (now
the Quarantine ground,) and not a rag of sail could be dis-
covered on the whole expanse of the bay, that could afford
us relief, except the Staten Island ferry boat, which was
three or four miles to leeward, and we knew not that our
situation was discovered by those on board. For forty-five
minutes we had been alternately drenched by the water,
or pierced by a cold wind, until our bones were benumbed,
and our hearts given up to despondence — for the danger
was every moment increasing, and the evening closing in.
At that fearful moment, that all-seeing and merciful Being,
without whom a sparrow falleth not to the ground, sent
Bishop Moore as an angel of mercy to save us from a
watery grave.
He and his lady had taken passage in Vanduzer's Staten
Island ferry boat, navigated by one young man, having in
tow a skiff with two men returning from market. Yielding
to the heart-touching appeals of the Bishop, these men con-
sented to encounter the wind and the waves, and row
directly towards us, while the Rev. gentleman (being
familiar with the management of the boat, from his pastoral
location on the Island,) undertook to assist in plying the
boat to windward under a press of sail, in which he exer-
cised the skill of a sailor united to the benevolence of a
Christian, — not without hazard of their own lives. The
sail-boat arrived first within hailing distance, and pressing
under our lee, our deliverer stood on the forecastle, with a
handkerchief bound round his head, and waiving his hand,
he exclaimed, " Hang on, my dear souls, a few moments
longer, and we will be there for your deliverance !^
While the sail-boat was making another tack to gain the
64 MEMOIR OF THE
windward side, the skiff had reached the leeward, and
directed their attention to the woman at the head of the
mainmast, who was in the greatest danger — but from her
helplessness, the skiff filled in attempting to get her in, and
their own safety depended on keeping hold of the mast. At
that critical moment the sail-boat gained a position which
enabled them to rescue every soul, except Mrs. McLean,
who at that time was 15 or 20 feet below the surface.
When we arrived on board the boat of our deliverers,
we found the cabin shoe-deep in water, from which, on ac-
count of the motion of the boat, it was impossible for Mrs.
Moore to secure herself, and it is probable she then laid the
foundation of the disease of which she died not long after-
ward.
We were then conducted back to Mr. Vanduzer's ferry,
where, through the active benevolence of Bishop Moore,
and the hospitality of Mr. Vanduzer's family, we were
made as comfortable in body as our circumstances rendered
possible ; and then Bishop Moore endeavoured to improve
our calamity and deliverance to the salvation of our souls.
He animadverted on the extreme danger in which we had
been involved — the hopelessness of our situation for near an
hour, and the feeble, and unlooked for means which God
had employed for our deliverance. " For his own part,"
he said, " the kind providence of God, in our deliverance,
appeared as manifest as if a hand had been stretched out
from heaven, and taken us by the hairs of our heads."
And then with a most impressive appeal to our hearts and
consciences, he said, ' Does not this demand a sacrifice of
heartfelt praise and gratitude to your Maker and Pre-
server ? And will you not unite witli me while I endeavour
to address the throne of Grace in your behalf?*' — To this
we feelingly assented, and were all, by his example, instant-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 65
ly on our knees : when the man of God poured out his
heart in a prayer so tender, devout and appropriate, that
our hearts must have been harder than the nether mill-
stone had they not melted with sorrow for our sins, and
gratitude for our deliverance.
A short recital appeared in one of the city papers at
that time, of the casualty, with a tribute of praise and
gratitude to Bishop Moore — which has probably been for-
gotten by all those who then read, or heard it; but al-
though nearly a half century has elapsed, the impressions
then made on my heart, have never been effaced, and the
name of Bishop Moore has never failed to call to my re-
membrance my deliverance from a watery grave, and my
able, and estimable deliverer !
William Steele.
December, 1841.
The fearless exposure of his own life to save his fellow
creatures from a watery grave, insured for this servant of
God the affectionate confidence of those who had been pre-
served by his instrumentality, and inclined them to listen
with docile meekness to the spiritual counsel and exhorta-
tion he addressed to them, and fervently to join in the sup-
plications and thanksgivings which he offered in their be-
half at the throne of the heavenly grace. The good seed
sown amid the melting and hallowing influence of that
eventful hour, will doubtless yield fruit unto eternal life.
Never does piety appear more attractive than when
clothed in the garment of charity, and acts of kindness and
beneficence on the part of its ministers prepare the way
for the effective exhibition of the Gospel. A cheerful ex-
ercise of all the tender charities of life, leading to a steady
course of well-doing, gave to Dr. Moore a strong hold upon
66 MEMOIR OP THE
the affections of his parishioners at large, and prepared
them to receive with meekness those doctrines of salvation
which were so beautifully illustrated and enforced by his
benevolent example. Never, probably, was a pastor more
thoroughly grounded in the respect and love of his flock
than the subject of this memoir. They knew the voice of
the shepherd and followed his gentle guidance as he led
them into green pastures and beside the still waters. In
the duties of that rural parish he found great delight, and
while cheered by the steady advancement and prosperity
of the churches entrusted to his care, he was also occasion-
ally favoured with those plentiful harvests which, in the
spiritual no less than in the natural world, give joy to the
heart of the husbandman. Amidst the trials and discour-
agements of his later years, he often adverted with plea-
sure to the ministry of his early manhood, and seemed, for
the moment, to live again in renovated youth, amidst the
interesting and beautiful scenery of that lovely Island.
More than once have we seen his old eyes sparkle with
pleasure, and his countenance brighten with joy, while rela-
ting a memorable incident that took place there. He
had been preaching at one of his usual stations in the
afternoon, and, the ordinary closing devotions being ended,
pronounced the benediction. But not a person moved to
retire. All seated themselves in the attitude of fixed and
solemn attention. A member of the church arose and said
' Dr. Moore, the people are not disposed to go home ; please
give us another sermon.' At the close of that, the like
scene was repeated. And the services were continued un-
til, at the close of a thi?'d sermon, the preacher was obliged
to say — * My beloved people, you ?nust now disperse — for,
although I delight to proclaim the glad tidings of salvation,
my strength is exhausted and I can say no more.' On the
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 67
next day, in his visits among his people, the mystery of this
strange occurrence was revealed. He found that while he
had been addressing the ears of the assembly, God's spirit
had been working powerfully upon their hearts. Under
those sermons many were awakened to righteousness ; it was
the commencement of a glorious revival of religion, as the
fruits of which more than sixty new-born souls were added
to the communion of the faithful.
While Dr. Moore was rector of St. Andrew's, Staten
Island, he was elected one of the clerical deputies to repre-
sent the diocese of New York in the General Convention of
the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States,
holden in Baltimore, in the month of May, 180S. During
the session of the Convention he preached several times in
the churches of the latter city with his usual success, and
afterwards, on the death of Dr. Whitehead, received an
invitation from St. Paul's parish to become their rector.
This was the second call he received to that important
church ; both of which, however, he felt it his duty to de-
cline. At that General Convention, the only one ever held
south of Philadelphia, the hymns of the Church were in-
creased from twenty-seven to fifty-seven. Dr. Moore was
chairman of the committee by which the additional hymns
were selected. When the report was read by the chair-
man, one hymn after another was adopted without discus-
sion ; till at length an opponent of the measure paid the
following compliment to the sweet voice and impressive
manner of the reader. " I object to the hymns being read
by that gentleman, for we are so fascinated by his style of
reading that we shall without hesitation adopt them all."
During the whole of his more than twenty years' ministry
in St. Andrew's, he was incessantly engaged in the arduous
08 MEMOIR OF THE
but delightful duties of a faithful parish priest. He was in
labours most abundant ; " in season and out of season ;" in
the churches on the Lord's day, and in school-houses and
farm-houses in different parts of the Island on week-days, he
ceased not to proclaim to the people of his charge " the
unsearchable riches of Christ." His ministry there was,
in its character and effects, very much like that of the
sainted Legh Richmond, in the Isle of Wight. Such
scenes of pastoral fidelity on the one hand, and docile piety
on the other; of cordial co-operation and mutual affection
between ministers and people, give joy to Heaven, but,
alas ! are too seldom witnessed upon earth.
The following extract from the funeral address delivered
in the Monumental Church, by the Rev. Wm. Norwood,
Bishop Moore's assistant in said church, will form an ap-
propriate conclusion to this review of his ministry on
Staten Island.
" His faithfulness in all the departments of ministerial
duty; his zeal in the advancement of true religion; his
love of his Divine Master, and of his work ; his unaffected
love of all men ; his serenity of manners and entire freedom
from spiritual pride, and all moroseness in his theological
views, gave him not only an unbounded popularity among
the people, but won for him their warm admiration and
sincere attachment. The fruits of such labours, and of
such a Christian character, were soon abundantly mani-
fested. His congregation soon overflowed, and it became
necessary to enlarge the church edifice. The number of
his communicants rapidly increased, and the standard of
their piety was much elevated. Even after a large addi-
tion to the sittings of his church, it soon became necessary
to make still further provision for the numbers who flocked
LIFE OP BISHOP MOORE. 69
to his ministry, and a Chapel of Ease was provided, six
miles distant from the parish church. During his attend-
ance upon the late General Convention, in October last, the
writer of this sketch visited this scene of the early labours
of his venerated and beloved friend. It was grateful to
every good feeling of the heart to witness the ardent love
and unaffected veneration for their old pastor, which were
still cherished, and remained enshrined in the hearts of his
former parishioners and their children. It was delightful
to address, in the two beautiful churches of the Parish,
large congregations of zealous worshippers of Almighty God,
and to see the son of this venerable man, who had, in his
earliest manhood, and immediately after his admission to
Holy Orders, succeeded his father in this interesting charge,
now himself more than fifty years of age, and honoured
with the title of Doctor of Divinity, after a useful and suc-
cessful ministry of thirty-two years, still occupying the post
of his father's duties, and walking in the steps of that good
old man as a faithful and beloved shepherd of Christ's
flock."
CHAPTER III.
Fbom 1809 TO 1814.
The advantages and disadvantages of city and country charges re-
spectively. Dr. Moore's call to St. Stephen's Church, New York. The
state of the Church in that city. Ministry of Dr. Hobarl. The depressed
condition of St. Stephen's when Dr. Moore took charge of it. Its rapid
increase. The active efforts of George Warner, recorded by Bishop
Moore in a letter to his widow. Lecture- room services and prayer meet-
ings. The opinion of Bishop Moore respecting them. Their propriety
discussed. Approval of Nelson, Bishops Claggett and Kemp, and the
present presiding Bishop. Letters on Prayer Meetings and Associations.
Kevivals of Religion and Clerical Associations. Letters to Bishops I\Ieade
and Bowcn on Anxious Seats and Revivals. The course of Dr. Moore in
reference to an unhappy controversy in the Church of New York. A
succinct review of the effect of his ministry in St. Stephen's.
While Dr. Moore was prosecuting that long career of
success and duty which has been imperfectly sketched in
the preceding chapter, the nature and effects of his minis-
try upon the Island were closely watched by multitudes
in the neighbouring city. He enjoyed a high and enviable
reputation for the meekness, benevolence and devotion of
his character; for his bold and uncompromising exhibition
of the great principles of evangelical truth : for faithful-
ness and assiduity in the performance of parochial duties ;
and for a powerful and persuasive eloquence, which rivet-
ed the attention, and moved the hearts of the auditories
he addressed. If there were some who contemplated his
course with an envious and malignant eye, there were
others who gazed on it with admiration, and resolved to
embrace the first opportunity which offered to procure his
MEMOIR OF THE LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 71
removal to the city, which was then rapidly rising into im-
portance, and has since become the commercial emporium
of our country.
If a country parish, with its homogeneous society, fixed
character, simple unsophisticated habits, and peaceful
seclusion from the dissipations and vices of fashionable life,
holds out the greater promise of personal comfort and hap-
piness, it must be admitted that the large and crowded city
opens a wider field of usefulness to the able and faithful
minister of Jesus Christ. Large cities are the chosen thea-
tres for the strife of covetousness, the emulation of vanity,
and the struggles of ambition. There are concentrated
pomp, and pride, and luxury. There is to be found every
incentive to passion — every allurement to excess. There
the polluted temples of pleasure throw open their gilded por-
tals, through which multitudes of thoughtless votaries are
lured to eternal ruin. There the din of incessant occupa-
tion, tbp. exciting bustle of traffic, the ever-changing variety
of scenes, combine with the pageantry and vanity of wealth
to distract the attention and wean the thoughts of men from
the great themes of morals and religion. There intempe-
rance, debauchery, and impurity are exhibited in all their
degrees, from decency to loathsomeness. There we behold
an exhibition of all those varieties of profligacy and vice,
which it is the design of the Gospel to eradicate, and which
that divine system alone has the power to restrain and re-
form. There the enemies of our faith are combined in
most formidable numbers; its advocates are required to
grapple with the whole legion of adversaries, and are com-
pelled to be incessantly engaged in close conflict with " the
world, the flesh, and the devil." Is the Gospel to be preach-
ed to sinners? In large cities they are found in the greatest
numbers. Are ministers "fishers of men?" Then, like
72 MEMOIR OF THE
other fishermen, they may more successfully use their nets
where there are shoals of fishes, rather than where only
occasional stragglers are to be found.
But while we thus speak of the wider field of usefulness
which the population of a large city opens to the ministers
of Christ, we are far from believing that every clergyman
should be desirous of a city charge. As in a great house
there are not only different apartments, but different uten-
sils — some of silver and gold, and others of wood, and brass,
and stone — so is it in the Church ; and God, in the wise
economy of his providence and grace, has assigned to his
servants not only various gifts, and tastes, and dispositions,
but also different theatres of usefulness, where they may
serve and glorify him, according to his will, in the exercise
of their various qualifications. Many a servant of God
may rise to high eminence and usefulness in the patient
discharge of his duty as a village or country pastor, who
would sink beneath the weight of discouragement and ne-
glect, if he were exposed to the excitement and cares,
the collisions and rivalries, the trials and disappointments
incident to the charge of our city Churches. Even so, on
the other hand, there are, doubtless, many who are success-
ful pastors and popular preachers in city congregations,
whose powers would be unknown, and their peculiar talents
and capabilities for usefulness would never be brought to
light, if they were required to labour amidst the quiet and
unexciting scenes of a country parish.
The circumstances by which men are surrounded, in the
providence of God, commonly bring into use the various
gifts and qualifications by which He designs that they
should glorify him in the spheres respectively allotted to
them in his Church. Nevertheless, we now and then meet
with a rare instance of one who seems to have risen above
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOHE. 73
the control of circumstances, and by the peculiarity of his
talents, and the adaptation of his character, to be equally
at home before a fashionable or a rustic congregation, and
to be alike fitted for usefulness in any sphere.
Dr. Moore was one of this description. Having accepted
a call to the Rectorship of St. Stephen's Church, in the
dty of New York, in the spring of 1809, he readily adapted
himself to the duties of his new position; and the popularity
which he had acquired upon Staten Island was fully sus-
tained, and even increased, after his removal to the city
of his nativity.
The condition of the Church in New York, at that day,
was very different from what it is at the present time.
The majority of the clergy were, perhaps, more orderly than
zealous — more orthodox than evangelical — more distin-
guished for attachment to the ritual of the Church than
for a fervent and edifying mode of performing it — more in-
tent upon guarding their folds against the inroads of enthu-
siasm than upon (he conversion of sinners and the making
of aggressive movements upon tlie world. This is said with-
out any design to disparage the characters or labours of the
very respectable and worthy men who, as Rectors or As-
sistants, exercised pastoral supervision over the city con-
gregations in that day. The design is merely to remind
the reader of the existence of a calm, temperate, unruffled
state of things among our Churches which would be likely to
undergo some change, and, perhaps, be temporarily dis-
turbed, by the introduction of a minister distinguished for
evangelical boldness, and burning with zeal to promote the
glory of Christ in the conversion of souls. The spirit of Dr.
Moore's ministry, the measures he prosecuted for the spiri-
tual edification of his people, and his style of preaching,
(whether right or wrong, about which there will be various
f2
74 MEMOIR OF THE
opinions.) were undoubtedly different from those most pre-
valent among his clerical brethren in that city. It is true
that Dr. Pilmore, who visited this country as one of the
pioneers of Methodism, (having in early youth been en
trusted by its founder with the oversight of all his societies
in Ireland, and being afterwards selected, on account of his
popular eloquence, to act as missionary in the American
colonies,) had, after taking Episcopal orders, maintained in
Christ Church a course of ministerial duty marked by its
zealous and evangelical character, in which he was fol-
lowed by his worthy successor, also a distinguished convert
from the same sect. It is true that Dr. (afterwards Bishop.)
Hobart, (who for eight preceding years occupied the sta-
tion of an assistant minister in Trinity Church,) had, by his
commanding talents, his habit of memoriter preaching,
(giving to his sermons all the tenderness, pathos and unction
of extemporaneous preaching,) and by his voice of various
intonations and vast compass and power, employed, not in
the delivery of cold, didactic, ethical essays, but of warm
and impassioned appeals to the conscience and the heart,
thrown high attractions about the art of preaching, and
impressed a new character upon the pulpit exercises of
that city. His was a genius which marked out a course
for itself, breaking through the narrow restraints, and soar-
ing above the grovelling axioms of the schools. He felt
that his high duty was to preach, not the morals of Seneca,
but the doctrines of redemption; that his ministry had to do
with the affections no less than with the understandings of
men. And while, unappalled, he was ready to break a
lance with the giant of Presbyterianism, — in his " Apology
for Apostolic Order" — through the press, he could no less
easily maintain his claim to an equality with him as a
preacher of Christ crucified, in the pulpit.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 75
The ministry of Hobart may be said to have prepared
the way for that of Moore in the city of New York. For
notwithstanding their acknowledged differences of opinion
on certain points, they were alike animated by sincerity
and fervor; the ministry of both was of a stirring and ex-
citing character. They laboured successfully in their dif-
ferent spheres. The one in his refined and wealthy con-
gregation in the heart of the city ; the other with his humbler
flock in its suburbs. Both aimed at the same great results
— the salvation of souls, and the extension of the Church of
God. Whatever might have been the difference in their
views and usages, keeping them sundered for a season ; —
yet in after life, when the mists were dispersed which in-
tercepted and marred their vision of each other's character,
there was a perfect harmony of feeling — an exercise of
mutual confidence and love. Each regarded the other as
a faithful son of the Church at whose common altar they
served. Let their misconceptions of each other be forgotten,
as the fruits of our fallen nature. Let their unity be kept
in perpetual remembrance, as a fruit of that Holy Spirit
by which we are all baptized into one body.
St. Stephen's, at the time Dr. Moore accepted the rector-
ship, offered but few attractions. It presented a forbid-
ding and unpromising field to all except a man of God,
exercising full reliance upon the promises of him who
is able from stones to raise up children unto Abraham, — and
has declared that the word which proceedeth out of his
mouth shall not return unto him void, but shall accomplish
that which he doth please, and shall prosper in the thing
whereto he hath sent it. There were not more than thirty
families connected with the congregation, and out of these
there were but about twenty who knelt as communicants
at the Lord's Table. So discouraging were the circum-
76 MEMOIR OF THE
stances under which Dr. Moore entered upon his new
charge. But he " despised not the day of small things ;"
and the Lord, who had placed him there, gave him such
favour in the eyes of the people, that his congregation
rapidly increased, and his whole ministerial career in New
York was one of uninterrupted prosperity and success.
Soon after his settlement in St. Stephen's, a body of
seventy communicants from one of the sister Churches
transferred themselves to his pastoral care. These were
pious and devoted followers of Jesus Christ, who were in-
tluenced to the adoption of this plan of colonization, not
more by a desire for their own spiritual improvement and
comfort than by an earnest wish to be employed as co-
labourers with him in the edification and enlargement of
the Church of God. At the head of this band of communi-
cants was the late George Warner, Esq. He was a man
of liberal fortune and easy circumstances. Highly esteemed
for his good sense and integrity, he often held a place in
the common council of New York, and more than once was
a representative of the city in the general assembly of the
state. He had a wide circle of acquaintances in which his
inOuence was great, and he was disposed to exert that in-
fluence to the utmost in favour of truth and godliness. A
Qiristian above the ordinary grade, he was not content
with adorning his profession by a decent life of exemplary
virtue, but freely devoted his wealth, and influence, and
personal labours to the cause of piety and the Church.
His religious zeal, bordering upon enthusiasm, perhaps, in
some instances, leapt over its appropriate limits, and was
not duly tempered with discretion. He was not only fond
of extemporaneous prayer in social meetings, but occasional-
ly, in singing a hymn, would supply the defects of memory
by composing a verse or line under the impulse of the
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 77
moment. This good man was never more in his element
than when conducting a prayer meeting ; and in addition
to his activity in visiting the sick and afflicted, there was
scarcely a day in the week when he did not lead the devo-
tions of a praying circle in some section of the city. All
these "society meetings" as they were called, proved so
many fountains of spiritual activity and feeling which
poured their rills into the reservoir of St. Stephen's. Such
a layman, watchful, self-denying, benevolent, burning with
zeal and unwearied in labours, is " a host in himself" — and
it is probable that the efforts of Mr. Warner proved more
efficient, as auxiliary to the work of the rector, than the
services of any curate or assistant minister would have
been. He attached himself to Dr. Moore with all the
intensity of implicit confidence and warm affection. He
was ever ready to sustain him under his burdens, to sympa-
thize with him in his trials, to swell the number of atten-
dants on his ministry, and to employ every means in his
power to secure for that ministry the greatest amount of
efficacy and success.
His affection for his pastor was warmly reciprocated.
Often did Dr. Moore speak with admiration and gratitude
of the unvarying sympathy, and faithful co-operation of his
beloved parishioner, to whose labours and prayers he ac-
knowledged a deep indebtedness for the uncommon success
of his ministry in St. Stephen's. The delightful intercourse
of their kindred minds was often renewed during the
Bishop's annual visits to New York, and ceased not, till his
old friend " rested from his labours by dying in the Lord."
On hearing of this event. Bishop Moore addressed the fol-
lowing letter to Mrs. Warner, in which he declares his high
estimate of the character and services of her departed hus-
band.
78 MEMOIR OF THE
TO MRS. GEORGE WARWER.
January 21st, 1825.
I have seen in the public prints that it hath pleased the
Almighty to remove from the Church militant, to the
Church triumphant in heaven, my much beloved friend,
Mr. Warner. To you, my afflicted friend, and to the re-
ligious community to which he belonged, the loss of his
society and conversation must be inexpressibly great. Much
however as he was beloved by us, we must not suffer his
removal to excite in our minds an unkind thought of Deity;
the good qualities we discovered in him, his devotedness to
the God we love, his unwearied efforts to promote the good
of souls, should convince us of his fitness for the change
through which he has passed : and influence us to prepare
for the same solemn and momentous event. There are
few individuals in society who knew Mr. Warner more
perfectly than myself. For five years he was my affection-
ate companion and kind parishioner. We took sweet
counsel together, and went into the house of God as friends.
I can say with truth that our intimacy never for one
moment experienced interruption. And while I live I shall
remember him with affection, and thank God for the encour-
agement he gave me in the work of the ministry. I have
always thought that much of the success which attended
my labours at St. Stephen's, was owing to the efforts of my
departed friend. His prayers and his influence were united
with my exertions ; our hearts were fixed upon the same
object, the good of Zion, and the Lord prospered the work
of our hands upon us. He has reaped, I trust and believe,
that rich reward promised to the faithful, and may God in
infinite mercy in his own time invest us also with the crown
IIPE OF BISHOP MOOHE. 79
of eternal life. In the course of five years the number of
communicants increased from about twenty, to four hundred.
Pleased and delighted as was my soul at the prosperity of
Zion, still I am fully of opinion that his pleasure and delight
was equal to my own. We would walk from one end of
the city to the other, visiting the sick, praying with the
aflflicted, and exhorting those in health to seek the Lord,
and never did I hear him say he was fatigued. When
indisposed myself, and under these circumstances incapable
of visiting the children of sorrow, I would send the appli-
cant to George Warner, and satisfied myself that the ob-
ject would be as fully answered, as if I had attended in
person. He heard me deliver my last sermon in Christ
Church, and escorted me to my brother's house — we then
shook hands with all the warmth of friendship, and parted
in this world, alas ! forever. Were I near you, my afilicted
sister, I would endeavour to console you w^ith a relation of
a thousand of his virtues. Should we never meet in this
vale of tears, I trust we shall meet in a better world, and
again see those pious friends, from whom God in his provi-
dence hath separated us. May God be your refuge, and un-
derneath you may he place the everlasting arms of his love.
With every sentiment of Christian affection,
Believe me in truth, your sincere friend,
Richard Channino Moore.
Thoroughly grounded in the affections of his parishioners,
favoured with the confidence of the Christian community
in New York, and as a preacher, attractive to many of the
strangers who resorted to the city, Dr. Moore, " through
evil as well as through good report," pursued the even tenor
of his way, as a faithful ambassador of the cross, and was
diligently engaged, " in season and out of season," in labour-
MEMOIR OF THE
ing for the conversion of sinners and the edification of be-
lievers. Some made him the object of their reproach ;
others of ridicule and scorn ; but whether it were his lot to
encounter the bold opposition of the world, — or the more
secret, but not less bitter censures of false brethren, " none
of these things moved him," while assured that he was
doing his Master's work, and enjoying his Master's bless-
ing. Never was there a stronger example given of a la-
borious and successful ministry. In addition to three full
services in the church on the Lord's day, he was in the
habit of holding two or more lectures in the week at school
houses. He imitated those Apostles who " daily in the tem-
ple, and in every house, ceased not to teach and preach
Jesus Christ."
It was about the year 1811, in the days of his boyhood,
that the writer of this memoir was so favoured as to be in-
troduced to the friendly regards of Dr. Moore. Gratefully
do I remember the deep interest he manifested in my spi-
ritual growth and welfare as a youthful disciple of Christ,
and the paternal tenderness with which he cherished and
encouraged my trembling desire to devote myself to the
ministry of the Gospel. During my occasional visits to
New York, previous to my ordination, it was my delight to
be found among the worshippers who, on the Lord's day,
crowded to St. Stephen's, to offer their devotions and hear
the gospel preached in purity and power. On one occa-
sion I accompanied my venerated friend to one of his week
night services in a school-house ; and what was my sur-
prise to observe a large audience, under the power of truth,
melted into tears ! At the close of the service, many of
them gathered around their beloved pastor to lay open the
sorrows of their sin-stricken hearts, and inquire what they
must do to be saved ! Never shall I forget a remark he
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 81
made to me at that time in answer to an inquiry respect-
ing the propriety and usefulness of such meetings, about
which there was and is a diversity of opinion in our church.
I shall never forget it, because it has had its influence upon
the whole course of my ministry, and its wisdom and truth
have been fully confirmed by my own experience. The
remark was substantially as follows: — " I encounter much
reproach and opposition from some of my brethren on ac-
count of these meetings. But they are neither inconsistent
with the principles, nor prohibited by the canons, of the
Church. And, although some condemn them as irregular
and methodistical, I cannot, as a minister of Christ, desi-
rous of the salvation of souls, give them up. For I know
that God's blessing is upon them. They are the nurseries
of my communiorJ''
How great the change which has taken place since that
time ! Now, in our cities and towns, a lecture room is
thought to be almost a necessary appendage to a Church.
The holding of weekly lectures may now be considered as
the rule, the omission of them as the exception.
At the period of which we write there were very few
of the Episcopal clergy in the United States who ever held
any other services than the public worship of the Church
on the Lord's day and some of the greater festivals. The
few who held lectures and prayer-meetings in unconse-
crated places, were viewed with an eye of suspicion, and
were subject to evil report as being regardless of rubrics
and canons, if not utterly disaflfected towards the worship
and principles of the Church at whose altars they served.
So decided and strong was the opposition to the rector of St.
Stephen's on this score, that " he was compelled to throw
himself under the protection of Bishop Benjamin Moore,
82 MEMOIR OF THE
then the acting Bishop of New York, and said to him, ' if you
will take the responsibihty of saying I shall have no prayer-
meetings, I will give them up.' The Bishop replied, ' Sir,
I will do no such thing.' 'Then Sir,' said Dr. Moore,
' neither will I.' And from that time he continued his meet-
ings with much less difficulty."* This interview was very
similar, in its nature and result, to one which took place
between the writer, soon after his appointment to the rec-
torship of St. Ann's Church, Brooklyn, and the late Bishop
Hobart. The Bishop was well known to be unfavourable
to what are called prayer-meetings, and fearing that there
would he an attempt to force them into the congregation
at Brooklyn, sought an interview with the Rector, in which
he expressed his apprehensions on the subject. He was
assured that no design was entertained to impose such ex-
tra services upon the people contrary to their wishes — and
this question was proposed to him : " If any portion of the
congregation shall desire voluntarily to meet during the
week for prayer and other religious services, do you think
it would be my duty, as a minister of Jesus Christ, to pro-
hibit or discourage it ?" To which the Bishop, in his em-
phatic manner replied, *'God forbid!" Notwithstanding
the diversity of opinion between them as to the utility of
the extra services referred to, he always treated that young
rector with the utmost courtesy and kindness, never found
fault with his parochial arrangements, and, in the ser-
mon preached when he admitted him to the priesthood,
spoke in too flattering terms of his past ministry in the
Church, not excepting his social lectures or prayer meet-
ings.
That the opinions of Dr. Moore, in relation to the meet-
♦ Rev. Dr. Tjng, in Christian Keepsake for 1810.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 83
ings in question, underwent no innportant change after his
elevation to the episcopate and removal to another sphere
of duty, will be manifest from the following letter, address-
ed to one of his clergy in the year 1823.
TO THE REV. MR. , 0^ SOCIAL MEETINGS FOR PRAYER.
Richmond, Jan. 13th, 1823.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — The canons require that before all
sermons and lectures the form of prayer should be used,
but I do not recollect any statute against what you call
prayer-meetings. Should ten, twenty, or fifty of your peo-
ple choose to meet at a private house, and be disposed to
sing a psalm, or hymn, and unite in extempore prayer,
there is certainly no canon to forbid it. Is it not better
that they should thus pass their time than to waste it in
common conversation ? Nay, if a clergyman knows that
such is their disposition and desire, would it not be improper
in him to oppose it ? The church has ordained services to
be used in public, but certainly the Church does not mean
to prevent her members from praying without form in pri-
vate. I have seen good effects to arise from such pious
assemblies of neighbours, and, so far from opposing it, I
would encourage it, especially if the people wish it. The
only fear to be apprehended is enthusiasm, but, under the
direction and control of a judicious minister, that evil may
be avoided, U 1 was so situated as to be convinced of its
utility in a country parish, / would keep the reins in my
own hands, and give it my countenance. Prayer, if sin-
cere, ought to be encouraged, and I think I can say with
truth, that I have seen the greatest benefit flow from the
practice. When I say that I would keep the reins in my
84 MEMOIR OF THE
own hands, I mean that it should be done, if done at all,
under my patronage. I would form the plan, and give it
ray support. The people thus seeing their minister dis-
posed to afford them his countenance, instead of conceiving
a dislike to our inimitable forms would become attached to
them, and by an indulgence in private, would advocate
them in public. When i lived at the North, my people
were ardently attached to the service of the Church ; an
attachment which in many instances grew out of the in-
dulgence I gave them in private. If the clergy are con-
sistent in their public duties, and adhere to the Rubric
strictly ; if they preserve their distinctive character, and
yield no points in the discharge of their stated services, I
think that there can be little fear of injuring the Church,
by permitting their people to meet at each other's houses,
and pray to God without a form. I have found it neces-
sary to caution some upon this subject, because I have
discovered that they have yielded every thing; even by
leaving their congregations and services, and improperly ex-
changing with dissenters ; nay, one person acknowledged
that he had united in the sacrament and thought it right
so to do. When I am writing to you, I consider myself as
addressing a sound Churchman ; I have, therefore, no fear
that you will yield too much. I have the most perfect con-
fidence in your judgment, and would wish you to do what
you think is proper, guarding, how-ever, your public duties,
and thus evincing your attachment to the Liturgy.
Believe me, dear Sir,
Yours, &.C. &c.
Richard Channing Moore.
To the last year of his life Bishop Moore continued to par-
ticipate in such services with a degree of zeal and enjoy-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 85
ment uncommon for one of his advanced age, and equal to
that which he had experienced at any earher period of his
ministry. Even his mitred and hoary head afforded him
no protection against reproach upon this account. It will be
seen, however, from the following extract of a letter to a
clerical friend, that he not only bore it meekly and unmoved,
but was even stimulated by it to greater energy and fer-
vour in the service of the Lord.
March, 22n(], 1832.
" So far am I, my beloved sir, from regretting any of our
proceedings at our Association last summer, that I am re-
joiced we proceeded as we did. Much good at the time
was done; it \vould therefore be sinful to regret the means
we honestly made use of, and which appeared to be pre-
eminently blessed. I am the last man who would inten-
tionally offend any person; but if, in the faithful discharge
of my duty, people will be offended, although 1 would
lament the circumstance, and grieve at their mistake, still
I would patiently and steadily persevere. I have reached
a period of life in which T have a right to an opinion; and
as a clergyman of near half a century, I do think that
opinion is entitled to some consideration ; and in cases in
which laymen differ from me, as it regards measures, they
ought to remember that there is more reason for them to
think I may be right, than that they are right, and that
I am positively wrong. I do not presume to blame them,
and only ask in return that they will not blame me. I
sincerely hope that the precious Redeemer may be with us
at our approaching meeting. I do pray that he will mani-
fest his saving power in the conversion of sinners, and in
building up believers in the faith of the Gospel. I do pray
that my health may be preserved ; that my heart may be
G 2
86 MEMOIR OF THE
warmed by his grace ; and that I may preach in demon-
stration of the spirit, and of the truth as it is in Christ
Jesus. I do pray that Satan's kingdom may receive a
shock from which it may never recover, and the will of
God may be done on earth as it is in heaven ; and 1 do
pray also, that all the clergy who may be present, may be
blessed with a double portion of the Holy Spirit, and that
our united labours may eventuate in the promotion of that
cause committed to our charge. To these supplications,
my brethren in Alexandria must not rest satisfied with
saying amen ! but to that amen I entreat them to add their
most fervent and sincere supplications to Almighty God, and
call upon the pious members of both congregations to unite in
prayer for the same purpose. God has promised that if we
ask we shall have ; and as his promises are yea and amen in
Christ Jesus, we have a right to believe our joint supplications
will be heard, and such blessings poured down upon us as
will rejoice our hearts and strengthen our hands. When
you see the clergy, I will thank you to remember me to
them in much ailection: and with love to your companions,
believe me, Rev. and dear sir,
Your sincere friend and father in Christ Jesus,
R. C. MOORK."
Surely none can read this extract, glowing with zeal for
Christ and the salvation of souls, and not exclaim, " This
is the very spirit of the Gospel ! If all our Bishops and
clergy were thoroughly imbued with such a spirit, the
Church would soon shake herself from the dust and shine
forth in all the beauty of holiness."
The question relating to Lecture-room Services, by which
our communion was at one time seriously agitated, at this
time excites comparatively little feeling, and less contcn-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 87
tion. The advance of evangelical truth and godliness, con-
nected with the extension of our borders, has afforded con-
stantly increasing evidence of the utility of such services;
and in their extensive adoption by the Bishops and clergy,
the Church may be said to have given its suffrage in their
favour.
With regard to the mode of conducting such services,
there is, and there may properly be, a difference of opinion
among their advocates. Some believe themselves obligated
to use the whole morning or evening prayer precisely as
they would in the church. Others believe themselves to be
at liberty to select a service for such social assemblies, just
as they do for Sunday Schools and Bible Classes — that ser-
vice consisting of the Litany, (which is a perfect act of
social devotion in itself,) or of the prayers in the daily ser-
vice — there being a compliance with the requisition of the
canon, that before Sermons and Lectures no prayers shall
be used except those set forth in the Book of Common
Prayer. A chapter from the Bible is read, and a Lec-
ture founded upon it, or an exhortation, delivered by the
officiating minister, who closes the services with a short
extempore prayer and the benediction. There are some
few clergymen who occasionally request some pious and
discreet layman to lead in prayer at the close of the meet-
ing. In some of our congregations, the Sunday-school
Teachers, and others piously disposed, meet by themselves
alone, or under the direction of their minister, for social
prayer and conference.
It is of the Lecture-room Services, conducted by the
minister alone, that the writer deems it necessary to speak ;
because these alone are the services which so extensively
prevail " through evil and good report" in the Episcopal
Church. They are substantially such services as are com-
88 MEMOIE OF THE
mended by the pious Nelsox, in the preface to his work on
the Festivals and Fasts, with this difference, that the re-
ligious societies of which he speaks were composed of lay-
men, who prayed with and exhorted each other without
the presence of a clergyman. Of these Nelson says : " 1
cannot apprehend but that they must be very serviceable
to the interests of religion, and may contribute very much
to revive that true spirit of Christianity which was so much
the glory of primitive times. . . And for those objections
which are urged against these societies from some canons
of the Church, they seem to be founded upon a misunder-
standing of the sense of those canons."
Lecture-room services, if properly conducted, " the minis-
ter," as Bishop Moore expressed it, " keeping the reins
in his own hands" — giving precedence and pre-eminence to
the services of the Church — will tend to increase rather
than lessen the attachment of the people to the Prayer
Book. Social religious meetings, (holding an intermediate
rank between the public worship of the Church and
family worship,) but far more liable to abuse than those now
advocated, have received the approbation and sanction of
some of our Bishops who prided themselves upon their
rigid attachment to the forms and usages of the Church.
The following will suffice as an evidence of it. The con-
vention of the Church in Maryland many years ago adopted
the following resolution : "Resolved, that it be recommended,
and it is hereby recommended, to the ministers of this
Church on the Western and Eastern shores, to meet in
voluntaYy associations on their respective shores three times
in every year; that they labour at these meetings, by fre-
quent and earnest preaching and prayer, to awaken people
to a more lively sense of the important concerns of religion ;
encourage themselves to a more ardent zeal in the work of
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE.
their holy calling ; and form such rules for their government
at those associations, as to them may appear expedient :
provided nothing be ordained contrary to the discipline of
the Church." To effect these objects the following rules
were agreed to : " The members shall recommend to their
several congregations to establish among themselves a
society or societies for catechizing and preparing the can-
didates for confirmation, for religious discourse, prayer,
and singing, to meet once a week, or a fortnight, as may
best suit their avocations and engagements. That each
member shall select out of his congregation a small
number of persons who shall be communicants remarka-
ble for experience, prudence, humility, and zeal, to act
as a stated council for promoting religion in the said
societies ; one of whom, at least, shall attend, to prevent
enthusiastic heats, or light, trifling, or worldly conversation
in them."
June 14,1816.
" We approve of this plan and will be happy to find it
carried into operation.
Thomas John Claggett,
James Kemp."
But notwithstanding long experience of the Church, both
in England and this country, has proved the usefulness to
the cause of religion of such social services as we now speak
of, yet there are some among us who think it safer for the
Church to dispense with them, and do not in their con-
sciences approve of them. We hope the time may come
when there shall be perfect unanimity of sentiment among
us on this, as well as all other points which affect the in-
terests of the Church and the great work which her Lord
90 MEMOIR OF THE
has given her to do in the world. In the meantime, " let
brotherly love continue." Let us cultivate " things which
make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify
another."
To indulge in crimination and recrimination has no tend-
ency to advance the cause of truth or charity. And while
the advocates of lecture-room services and prayer meetings
should abstain from all severe condemnation of those who
see fit not to adopt them ; those who disapprove of them
should be careful how they question the integrity and
orthodoxy of those who indulge a liberty which they con-
scientiously believe the Church has allowed : they should
inquire " what manner of spirit they are of," before they
flippantly talk of a violation of ordination vows and a want
of Church principles, as involved in a practice sanctioned by
the usage of a large body of the most active and devoted of
our clergy, and by that of perhaps a majority of our present
house of Bishops.
Our remarks upon this point have been extended beyond
our design, not only because we deem it of vital importance
to the welfare of the Church that the liberty hitherto
allowed in this particular should be preserved unimpaired,
in conformity with the liberal spirit of her institutions, but
also with a view of protecting the memory of a departed
father in the Church from the reproaches of some of her
thoughtless sons.
The following wise counsels of our venerable presiding
Bishop, inculcating mutual forbearance and brotherly
love, if duly heeded, could not Aiil to exert a salutary
influence upon the Church. Like every thing which falls
from his patriarchal pen (as the result of deep reflection,
extensive observation, and long-tried principles,) they
deserve to be treasured up in our memories and our hearts,
LIFE OF BISHOP 3I00RE. 91
to be frequently pondered as the advice'of rare judgment,
unquestioned prudence, and fervent piety.
" The most candid of those who are opposed to prayer-
meetings, admit that this subject is ' a question of expe-
diency.' That God's word forbids such meetings, no one
probably will venture to affirm. That the Church forbids
them, no one has been able to show. And should she dis-
approve, nothing hinders that she should forbid them. And
if it be, as certainly it is, a question of expediency, what
judges can be more fit or competent to decide the question
than our parochial clergy, each in his own parish 1 Any
clergyman who is incapable of judging in this case, cannot
be qualified for the pastoral charge. Supposing that they
are so qualified, and their being continued in that office is
a proof that they are so esteemed, and to their decision we
may safely leave the question. They best know, each one
in his own parish, what the people need, and what means
and eflforts it pleases God to bless among them.
" There is reason to fear that some write and speak
against these meetings more from prejudice than knowledge.
They who have not attended them can be no better qualified
to judge of their use, than they who have not attended our
public worship, to judge of our Liturgy. By the latter we
are told, and they endeavour to prove, that our printed
prayers produce of course a lifeless formality ; by the for-
mer, that prayer meetings are productive of spiritual pride
and many evils. They both can urge very plausible rea-
sons : but we, who judge from long and decided experience,
are convinced that both are mistaken. In either case
hese evils may be, and in too many instances, no doubt,
have been produced ; but they are no less the necessary
consequence in the one case than in the other. If they
who frequent our solemn assemblies, and devoutly use our
92 MEMOIE OF THE
service, find it lifeless and unsatisfying to a pious mind, they
may with better reason condemn its use. And they, who
attend the prayer meetings, and find in them no religious
improvement, may well forsake them. And if it be a
known fact and generally true that they who frequent
those meetings, are less pious, and less humble than other
Christians; if they are more worldly, and vain, and wicked;
if they are not so constant nor so devout at Church ; if they
are less given to prayer, and often absent from the Lord's
table; if they are less regardful of the godly admonitions
of their spiritual rulers ; if they are not so constant in fami-
ly prayer, and generally not so good Christians, this
certainly is some good proof that the meetings are of evil
tendency'; and till this be proved, with what truth or
justice is it affirmed that experience has shown them to
be of evil tendency ? If meetings of the like nature in
other parts have produced bad effects, we are not an-
swerable. After long experience, we have not, to the
Lord's praise be it said, discovered any of those bad effects
which some of our brethren apprehend. A regard for the
Prayer-book has not, in any degree, been diminished but
the contrary: it is the full belief of the present writer, that
in no one of the United States are the Rubrics and canons
of the Church better observed than in Rhode Island. If
others make an ill use of the ordinance of preaching, or of
the celebration of Christmas, or of conference meetings, let
those who are disposed and accustomed to make a good use
of the same things, enjoy their privileges quietly and with-
out reproach. A large part of our communicants in this
state do not attend the meetings ; and for this I have never
heard them blamed. If they spend their evenings better,
we rejoice and bless God. Happy would it be did all
observe the most excellent rule of charity given in the
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOKE. 93
14th diapter of the Romans. Then he that regardeth the
day, would regard it unto the Lord ; and he that regardeth
not the day, to the Lord he would not regard it : — he
would neither presume nor desire to judge another man's
servant^ but to his own master let him stand or fall.
The evil most to be feared, and most prevalent among us,
is lukewarmness. With shame must we acknowledge that
we incline to be cold rather than hot. Enthusiasm is as
rare in our Churches as a scorching sun in a northern win-
ter : the mercury of our zeal is constantly below the
degree of temperate.''''*
There seems to be a natural and established connexion
between clerical associations, social devotional meetings,
and revivals of religion ; and whenever opposition to either
or all of them exists on the part of pious clergymen and
laymen, we believe it arises from the want of adequate ex-
perience and observation in the premises. Good men con-
tract prejudices against measures and means of doing good,
of which they know nothing but from hearsay : whereas, if
they could be persuaded to acquire that accurate knowl-
edge of their character and effects, which can be obtained
only by personal observation and participation, not only
would their prejudices against the measures in question be
removed, but they would themselves become their most
decided friends and active promoters. Many of our clergy,
not trained up under the influences of the Church, having
known social lectures and prayer meetings to be abused to
the purposes of fanaticism in the denominations from which
they came, and not duly estimating the conservative power
of Church institutions and principles, suppose that services;
amongst us bearing the like name, would necessarily be
* Bishop Griswold on Prayer meetings.
94 MEMOIR OF THE
followed with the like results. Even so there are jriany^
who, having witnessed or heard of, those disorganizing,
tumultuous excitements, which, gotten up and sustained by
human machinery of questionable propriety — spread like
wildfire through a community, destroying good fruits, rather
than producing them — but dignified with the name of re-
vivals, — look with sentiments of distrust or aversion upon
any state of things in the Church to which the same name
is applied, though it be essentially different in its nature
and results.
But as when we speak of a lecture-room service or a
prayer meeting in the Episcopal Church, we mean an
orderly assembly in which the service of the Church is
treated with due respect, and the exercises are wholly con-
ducted or controlled by the clergy ; even so when we speak
of a " revival" in the Episcopal Church, we mean a season
of more than usual interest in the subject of religion, pro-
duced by the special influence of the Holy Spirit giving
efficacy to the ordinary means of grace — such as faithful
preaching of the word and fervent prayer. The result is
that the graces and virtues of the devout are revived and
strengthened ; an unwonted depth of solemnity and feeling
exists in the congregation at large, and within a short time,
many sinners are converted from the error of their ways,
who *' profess the faith of Christ crucified" in Baptism or
Confirmation, and, by participating in the Lord's Supper,
become united to the communion of the faithful.
These " times of refreshing from the presence of the
Lord," — these vernal seasons o( g^race, may be expected to
occur in those congregations, where the faithful preaching
of the clergy is accompanied with the frequent and fervent
prayers of the people. With such seasons Dr. Moore was
favoured during his ministry on Staten Island : such seasons
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 95
he rejoiced to witness, more than once, during his ministry
in St. Stephen's. He preached the Gospel there amidst
the effusions of the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.
The blessing came in fulfilment of the promise, " ask and
ye shall receive." Often was the heart of the preacher
cheered, before commencing the service, by the entrance of
his friend Warner, who had come from the prayer meeting
to the vestry-room — and, with a countenance beaming with
joy, exclaimed, " my dear pastor, I am persuaded that your
labours will be attended with a blessing to-day, for we
have had great freedom in praying for you this morning !"
Never, perhaps, did he administer the Lord's Supper in
that Church without having some new communicants ; but
there were times when many were at once " added unto
the Lord." The great blessing of God which so often ac-
companied the labours of Dr. Moore, rendering them in-
strumental in the conversion of multitudes, necessarily
made him the friend and advocate of " revivals of religion,"
in the sober and rational meaning of that phrase. He was,
however, no friend to any religious excitement inconsistent
with the decent order and staid character of the Church,
He looked with suspicion and displeasure upon those " new
measures" which certain travelling evangelists of other
denominations have represented to be indispensably neces-
sary to the " getting up of a revival." He viewed the
''anxious benches," — the calling upon those who were
willing to go to heaven to rise — the putting it to vote
whether a congregation were desirous to be saved — and all
parts of the modern machinery of Pelagianism, so exten-
sively employed in some places to subserve the ends of
fanaticism, as not only dishonourable to religion, and de-
lusive in their tendency, but also chargeable with impiety,
in preferring human inventions to the divinely instituted
MEMOIR OF THE
means of grace. It will be gratifying to the reader to
peruse the Bishop's sentinnents on these interesting topics,
as expressed in the following extracts from his corres-
pondence.
As a suitable introduction to the extracts, we give the
following brief paragraph from Dr. Hawks' history of the
Church in Virginia.
"It is not wonderful that in the retrospect of the facts
we have here related,* the Bishop should entertain an
opinion, best expressed in his own words, that, ' although
w-e have the promise of heaven to be always present with
the Church, still there are particular seasons in which the
Almighty displays his power in a manner so overwhelming
as to command the attention of his rational creatures; to
dispel that coldness which makes them indifferent to the
calls of duty ; to excite their gratitude to God for his mer-
cies ; to melt obdurate offenders into contrition, and to
oblige them to sue for forgiveness at the throne of grace.'
Nor is it matter of surprise that the good Bishop should be
led by this incident in his own religious experience, often
to impress, as he does, especially upon the younger clergy,
the duty, at seasons in which the Almighty manifests his
presence in a more than ordinary way, gladly to avail
themselves of such propitious times to put forth redoubled
efforts in their Master's cause."
The following letter to Dr. (afterwards Bishop) Meade,
was probably occasioned by a fear that some of the clergy
of Virginia, misled by the reports of the success attendant
upon the use of the " new measures" among other denomi-
nations, might be induced to resort to them. But between
* The remarkable scene attending the three consecutive sermons on
Staten Island.
LIFE OF BISHOP 3I00RE. 97
the writer of the letter and him to whom it was addressed
there was a perfect agreement of opinion on the points of
which it treats.
TO DR. MEADE, (AFTERWARDS BISHOP.)
Nov. 20th, 1828.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — I am confident that your mind
would revolt at every thing like management in the con-
'cerns of religion. I have been acquainted for many years,
with what I have seen in some other societies, and what
1 have been obliged to call by that name; and I confess my
heart has been pained at the picture which at times has
been presented to my view. If Christianity is a system
founded on truth, the work of grace must be God's work ;
and I cannot believe that the Almighty stands in need of
the cunning craftiness of man to promote his designs. I
once told a presiding elder, that I observed in their exer-
cises what 1 considered unlawful. He replied that the
effect was visible ; to which I rejoined, that the end could
not justify improper means. Upon which he left me in a pet.
I cannot think that the Spirit of God can be brought into
operation by human management. In striving for the
mastery, we must strive lawfully ; we must use the means
God has appointed ; prayer, reading the Scriptures, and
the faithful preaching of the Gospel, constitute the ordi-
nances of heaven for the conversion of sinners; and where
this is done in sincerity of heart, that effect will be pro-
duced, which in the wisdom of God he may think proper.
If we wish to see the work of grace prosper in our hands,
and a lasting and permanent effect produced, we must ob-
serve order and decency in our worship. A momentary
influence may be effected, by measures pursued by some
h2
98 MEMOIR OF THE
other societies; but how often do we see those whose pas-
sions have been excited, and who have attempted to build
without counting the cost, relapse into former indiscretions,
and show that the work was that of man and not of God.
We have to do with people whose minds have been informed
by reading, and who would fly from us with disgust, were
we to permit feeling to take place of reason, or to use any
means other than those prescribed by Scripture. A morbid
appetite is by no means an uncommon thing in religious
concerns. As judicious physicians, we cannot consistently
with duty apply such things as would increase it, but, on
the contrary, should administer the wholesome and rational
remedies presented by the Lord Jesus Christ. Indeed, I
have thought that there is great impropriety in attempting
to iirvite the Spirit of God to descend upon the people in
any other way than Scripture has authorized. That we
are too cold is a solemn truth. To remedy this evil is in
our power, provided we will seek the aid of God's Holy
Spirit, in sincere and fervent prayer; and I am persuaded
that if we hoxestly call upon God to assist us with his grace,
and honestly preach his own word, he will make that
word quick and powerful to the conversion of those who
hear it. Can wo suppose that the Almighty stands in need
of the arts of man to further his designs ? " lie will work,
and who shall let it." Let us, then, be faithful and indus-
^ trious, and we will see the work of the Lord prosper in
our hands. Call into exercise your own experience, and
that experience will tell you that when in private prayer,
you would not think of invoking God's blessing in any other
way than in sincere and fervent supplication, i^ou would
make use of no art; on the contrary, you would fly from it
with abhorrence, lest your devotions should excite the dis-
pleasure of that Being whom you addressed. Why, then,
should we attempt in public what we should shrink from
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 99
doing in private? Direct your attention to the state of
things in this diocese when you first entered the ministry.
Could you, at that dreary hour, have promised yourself the
success with which a merciful God has blessed us? Did
you expect to see, in fifteen or sixteen years, upwards
of fifty churches built and repaired? Did you expect
to see, instead of three or four men to help you, fifty
clergymen disposed to do their duty ? Would you not,
at the moment of your ordination, have been willing to have
compromised for such an enlargement of our Zion as you
now witness? Had the Almighty promised you that we
should have a Seminary for the instruction of our youth,
of so flattering a description as that with which we are
now favoured, would you not have called on all the powers
of your soul to bless his Holy Name ? God has hitherto
blessed us: let us redouble our diligence, and not be led to
choose some other way, lest he should withdraw from us
in displeasure, and leave us in our own hands. I love the
spirit of zeal which you manifest ; old as I am, I feel some
of it myself, and will cordially unite with you in prayer to
God to warm our hearts, to strengthen our hands, and to
direct us by his counsel. I remember when you first in-
vited me to remove to Virginia, and when Wilmer and
Norris wished me to visit the diocese, that good old George
Warner, of New York, entreated me not to stir a single
step ; if the Lord wishes you to settle there, (he observed,)
he will make the way clear before you ; if you attempt to
take the measure in your own hands, he will be displeased.
I have written a long letter, because the subject called for
it; should you consider me wrong in my views, 1 am open
to conviction, and will thank you for a full expression of
your heart. Love to Mrs. .
Your sincere friend,
R. C. M.
100 MEMOIR OF THE
TO THE SAME, ON " ANXIOUS SEATS.
"There is one disadvantage, in my opinion, inevitably
resulting from all attempts to produce undue excitement
by extraordinary measures, and that is this : people are
led to suppose that there is no real religion without it, and
therefore disrelish all services which are sober and rational,
and brand those who do not think as they do, with indif-
ference to religion. This I call a morbid appetite ; an
appetite which is not reasonable, and which leads men to
place more reliance on their own measures, than those
measures deserve, and less on that Spirit which quickeneth
and giveth life to the sinner. As far as I am acquainted
with religion, one of its first operations on the mind is that
of great humility; we feel that we are sinners — that im-
pression makes us very humble. Now, an humble Chris-
tian is, in general, so doubtful of himself, that instead of
rushing into the first seat, he naturally prefers a less con-
spicuous place. Why the prayers of the minister could
not be heard unless the anxious occupied a particular seat
I cannot understand ; the Publican, I recollect, stood afar
off, and yet his modest and sincere petition was heard;
while the Pharisee went empty away. I have always
been charged with a leaning towards too much religious
feeling. I love feeling in religion; nay, I will say that
there can be no true religion without it; but then I like
to see THAT feeling produced by a faithful disclosure of
evangelical truth ; by preaching Christ as the power and
wisdom of God ; by leading men to the Saviour for life, free
from every thing that looks like management or human
contrivance. In your last letter you lament that our
Clerical Associations are not more attended to. Of this I
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 101
am as sorry as any man can be, knowing, from experience,
that the people will attend more generally on such occa-
sions than on the stated services of an individual. I wish
that' the brethren would take that measure into considera-
tion ; and I am sure, if they would, that the services of the
Church, and the preaching of our own estimable clergymen
thus assembled, would be productive of the greatest and
best effects."
TO BISHOP BOWEN. REVIVALS — ANXIOUS SEATS.
June 13th, 1832.
" I am sorry that causes should exist in your department
of the Church calculated to produce disquietude of mind,
or to excite the least uneasiness in your bosom. Individuals
placed in the situations we occupy cannot (amidst the va-
riety of opinions which prevail on the subject of what are
called revivals,) expect to escape, without meeting with
some things opposed to our immediate views, and which,
under all circumstances, we cannot perfectly approve. In
such instances, my attention has been invariably directed
to what my judgment convinced me would be the ultimate
results ; and in all cases my dependence has been placed
on the influence of persuasive expedients, keeping the su-
preme management in my own hands, and uniting with the
clergy and people in the use of such lawful means as I
thought calculated to secure the unity and welfare of the
Church, and to satisfy them that I have at heart the inte-
rests of vital religion, and am as much disposed to promote
the advancement of true piety as themselves.
" To further the above important objects, I have recom-
mended Clerical Associations, on which occasions the clergy
most contiguous to each other meet together, and hold re-
102 MEMOIR OF THE
gular services in the parish in which they convene. They
in general commence on Thursday, and finish their united
duties on the succeeding Sunday, when, after the celebra-
tion of the Lord's Supper, they separate. The services are
confined exclusively to the clergy of the Church, and the
duties are performed by themselves. If the association is
held within a reasonable distance I sometimes attend, and
always bear as great a portion of the labour as my age and
strength will admit of. Such an association will commence
to-morrow in , the residence of the Rev. ,
who is fully of opinion that such meetings are useful, and
expedient, and calculated to produce the best possible ef-
fects to religion and the Church, indeed such is the opinion
of all the clergy of the diocese. I never hesitate to ex-
press my aversion to every thing like human management
on such occasions. I think it profane to suppose that the
aid of the Holy Spirit can be secured in any other way
than in the use of the appointed means of grace, and be-
lieve that the faithful preaching of the Gospel, preceded by
our own services, constitute those means. I am opposed,
totally opposed, to ' anxious or enquiring benches' as they
are called, and think that humble penitents would prefer a
private intercourse with their Maker and their own pastor,
to an exposure of themselves to public view.
*' With respect to revivals, as they are termed, I would,
as an old man, observe : that every Christian clergyman
must be sensible, that there are seasons in which his reli-
gious affections are more animated than at other times, and
that if this superior animation should influence the minds
of his parishioners as well as his own, it is his duty to im-
prove the opportunity by an increased faithfulness and zeal
in the service of God. It is by such a course that he be-
comes (in my opinion) a co-worker with his Maker and Re-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 103
deemer, and discovers his wish to further and promote that
good work, which he has reason to believe has been begun
by that gracious being in whose service he is engaged. In-
dividuals, feeling impressed with the necessity of loving God
with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength, do not like,
and will not consent to have their desires, (desires which
they conceive owe their origin to divine influence,) restrain-
ed, controlled, and spoken into silence by their fellow mor-
tals. They would tell us that the three thousand at the
feast of Pentecost were in earnest when they inquired,
' Men and brethren what shall we do V That the Philip-
pian jailor felt the weight of his responsibility, when, in
distress of mind, he solicited for spiritual direction; that
Mary was engaged, with all the energies of her mind, in seek-
ing the salvation of her soul, when she sat, bathed in tears
of penitence at the feet of her Redeemer ; they would tell
us, that divine grace is, in its operations at this moment,
(what it has ever been,) convincing us of sin, producing a
repentance to salvation not to be repented of, influencing
those to ask for mercy in sincere prayer, who never truly
valued the privilege of prayer before, and rendering those
who were cold and heartless in the cause of religion, alive
to its concerns, and giving rise to a newness of life and con-
versation. Individuals who have been virtuously brought
up from their infancy, and who have been preserved from
those departures from moral and religious duty which cha-
racterize the greater part of mankind ; who have been
accustomed daily from their childhood to ask the protection
of heaven ; who have loved the Saviour from the first dawn-
ings of intellect, can form no proper idea of the convictions
of those who have wandered far from God, who have pro-
faned his name, his Sabbath, and his laws, without being
alive to their awful condition ; they can form no idea of
104 aiEMOIK OF THE
that distress which sometimes takes place in the mind of
the offender, when first awakened to a sense of his alarm-
ing situation ; they call the necessity of his earnestness in
question, because they have never been so deficient in duty
as he knows himself to have been ; and consider that en-
thusiasm which is really the product of divine grace. On
the other hand, an individual thus awakened, very often
thinks that others who do not feel as he does, have never
experienced the influences of the Holy Spirit; and because
they are not equally alarmed with himself, he takes it for
granted that their prayers are cold and heartless, and their
devotion more a thing of habit than of a spiritual nature.
To show to those labouring under such prejudices, the im-
propriety of their views, I have told them that Christian
experience, however much it may vary in degree, will
always, if genuine, produce the same results; that it will
be attended with a supreme love to God, that an obedience
to his laws will mark their lives, and that the fruits of the
spirit will be manifest in their general deportment ; that if
the tree is really of the planting of the Lord, it will pro-
duce good fruit. Such being, as far as my knowledge ex-
tends, the general operations of the mind in the two de-
scriptions of persons I have mentioned ; it follows of course
that the minister of a parish should attend closely to his
duties, harmonizing, as far as in his power lies, the two dis-
cordant opinions ; uniting those in love and charity, who
are in fact children of the same family, pursuing the same
object, and whose affections are fixed on things above.
Richard Channkvg Moore."
In the years 1810 — 11 a controversy of a most unplea-
sant and exciting character took place between the Rev.
Cave Jones and Dr. Hobart, both assistant ministers of
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 105
Trinity Church, which gave rise to several inflammatory
pamphlets, and produced serious divisions among the clergy
and laity of the Church in the diocese of New York. The
controversy was not allayed by the election and consecra-
tion of Dr. Hobart to the episcopate in the year 1811.
But as the diocese then had three Bishops, questions about
the right of jurisdiction, arising out of attempts to exercise
discipline upon the principal of one party, occasioned much
diversity of opinion among distinguished members of the
legal as well as clerical profession. It is unnecessary to
enter upon the merits of that controversy, which involved
the power of a diocesan to divest himself of his office and
its prerogatives by resignation, and other important points
deeply affecting our ecclesiastical organization. Dr. Moore,
in common with other distinguished gentlemen, clerical and
lay, was of opinion that the senior bishop. Dr. Provoost,
was, notwithstanding his resignation, (for which the Church
had then made no provision,) still to be regarded as the
rightful diocesan. He also sympathized with the minority
as to the other points involved in that painful controversy.
But it is a cause of gratitude that the differences between
him and Bishop Hobart, arising out of it, were entirely
healed by subsequent mutual explanations; and they ever
afterwards shared each other's confidence and affection.
His ministry in New York was one of commanding in-
fluence and most important results. The popularity which
he won in the early part of his rectorship in St. Stephen's
continued to be enjoyed, without any interruption, till its
close. His Church on the Lord's day, and the school-
houses where he lectured during the week, were always
crowded with solemn and attentive auditories. The pious
of every name, delighted, occasionally, to attend upon his
soul-stirring ministrations. To serious minded strangers
106 MEMOIR OP THE LIFE OF BISHOP MOORB.
visiting the city, St. Stephen's was one of the leading points
of attraction, and many who were savingly benefited by
casually listening to the Gospel which he preached, bore
back with them a blessing, and became radiating points of
spiritual illumination in the places of their respective abode.
In his different excursions to New London, Saratoga, and
other country towns, his preaching excited much interest and
produced happy results. Wherever he went, he scattered
" the good seed," and the extent of its fruitfulness, the great
day alone can reveal. "Within five years, his little band of
twenty communicants had swelled to more than four
hundred ; and his thirty families to a congregation large as
his Church could contain. Possessed of the respect and
love of all his parishioners, he enjoyed as high a share of
happiness as any parochial connexion can afibrd. He
would have desired no greater measure of comfort, satisfac-
tion, and pleasure, than to have spent the remainder of his
days with that humble but devoted flock. The Lord,
however, had a higher and more extensive field of useful-
ness for this favoured servant at his altar. As he had been
employed in resuscitating a dead, and in repairing a decay-
ed parish, he was now to be used as the honoured instru-
ment of raising a decayed and prostrate Diocese from a
state of desolation and ruin. His election and consecration
to the Episcopate of Virginia, and his entrance upon the
duties of that higher station, will demand our attention in
the following chapter.
CHAPTER IV.
1814.
The early history of the Church in Virginia. Election of Dr. Griffith
as Bishop, in 1786. Bishop Madison, the first Bishop of Virginia, con-
secrated in 1790. Deep depression of the Church, and its causes. Apos-
tolic character and labours of the Rev. Devereux Jarratt. Dr. Bracken's
election in 1812. New era in the Church under the auspices of a few
young Clergymen. Erection of the Monumental Church in Richmond —
and efforts made to obtain Dr. Moore for its first Rector with a view to
his election as Bishop. Correspondence on the subject — including letters
from Judge Washington, Bishop Hobart, and others. Propriety and deli-
cacy of Dr. Moore's course in respect to it. His election by the Conven-
tion and circumstances connected with his consecration in 1814. His
removal to Richmond. Previous condition of the Episcopal community
there. His great popularity and success. Fidelity in the pulpit and in
pastoral visitation. Presentation to him of a splendid copy of the New
Testament by his fellow citizens of all denominations. Summary view
of his character and labours as Rector of the Monumental Church.
It will not be an inappropriate introduction to our ac-
count of the elevation of the subject of this memoir to the
Episcopate of Virginia, to take a brief glance at the pre-
ceding history of the Church in that Diocese. The estab-
lishment of the Church and the propagation of the Gospel
among the native tribes of the new world seem to have oc-
cupied a prominent place in the views of government and
the designs of those who were instrumental in the founding
of the first English colony in America. " As far back as
1588, when Sir Walter Raleigh made an assignment of his
patent to Thomas Smith and others, he accompanied it
with a donation of one hundred pounds * for the propaga-
tion of the Christian religion in Virginia. ' It was also en-
108 MEMOIR OF THE
joined by the King's instruction ' that the presidents, coun-
cils and the ministers, should provide that the true word and
service of God be preached, planted, and used, not only in
the said Colonies, but also as much as might be among the
savages bordering upon them, according to the rites and
doctrines of the Church of England.' And the first charter
assigns as one of the reasons for the grant, that the con-
templated undertaking was a work which may, by the
providence of Almighty God, hereafter tend to the glory
of his divine majesty in propagating the Christian religion
to such people as yet live in darkness and miserable igno-
rance of the true knowledge and worship of God."*
In conformity with these pious designs, the Church was
planted with the Colony, at Jamestown, in 1606, and the
remains of the old Church tower is almost the only relic
which indicates to the traveller the site of the original
settlement. In a few years the Rev. Robert Hurst, pastor
of Jamestown, was joined by the Rev. Alexander Whitaker,
who established the Church at Henrico. By this gentle-
man, Pocahontas, the Indian princess, was baptized; and
in consequence of his faithful evangelical labours he re-
ceived the honourable title of " Apostle of Virginia." In
the year 1619, by the first legislative assembly ever con-
vened in the province, the Church of England was made
the established religion of Virginia, and fixed provision was
made by law for the decent support of the clergy. By
the appropriating of glebes, the imposition of taxes, and the
providing of funds for the establishment of schools and a
university — liberal provision was made not only for sustain-
ing the services of religion among the Colonists, but also for
the extension of its benefits to the benighted Indian tribes
• Burk's History of "Virginia, Charter, Hazard's State papers, cited by
Dr. Hawks.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. ]09
by which they were surrounded. From this time the num-
ber of ministers and parishes increased as rapidly as could
be expected in the infant G)lony ; and notwithstanding the
neglect of the provincial government, the fierce assaults of
sectaries, and the prevalence of irreligion and vice, incident
to newly settled communities of adventurers, the Church
continued to exist, though attended with various fortune
until the war of the Revolution. That momentous struggle,
deprived it of many of its clergy, and some of its warmest
friends among the laity, who left the country from attach-
ment to the royal cause, — and the measures which re-
sulted in the political independence of the Colonies, left the
Church in a state of great feebleness and prostration. In
Maryland and Virginia, where the Church, as the estab-
lished religion, was sustained by a system of taxation, its
hold upon the affections of the people was weaker, and it
was more thoroughly crippled by the revolution, than it
was in the other provinces, where its existence imposed no
involuntary burdens upon the people. As the established
religion of an oppressive government, it shared deeply in
the odium attached to the royal power by which it had
been imposed. Moreover, the character of the clergy
who were brought into frequent collision with the provin-
cial officers, and with their flocks, in the enforcement of
their legal claims to support, became more secularized, and
was less virtuous and exemplary than that of the clergy in
the other provinces ; who, as missionaries, were responsible
for their good behaviour to the societies in whose service
they laboured, — and who depended for their support upon
the Christian bounty of the mother country.
There was presented in the American Colonies the
anomaly of an Episcopal Church, comprising hundreds of
ministers and congregations, without a resident Bishop on
i2
110 JIEMOIR OF THE
the continent, and for the space of more than one hundred
and fifty years subject to no Episcopal supervision or con-
trol that could be at all effective. It is true that the
Bishop of London had nominal jurisdiction over the
Churches in the provinces, and occasionally imposed some
restraints and exerted some salutary influence through the
medium of his commissaries. But in the absence of all pro-
per discipline, many of the clergy not only became negli-
gent in the performance of the spiritual duties of their of-
fice, but brought discredit upon their profession by indulg-
ing in the vices and dissipations of the world.
Notwithstanding the very depressed state of the
Church in V^irginia, arising chiefly from the causes
which have been adverted to, it was organized into an
ecclesiastical body by the calling of a convention, soon after
the close of the revolutionary war; and an early attempt
was made to complete its organization and secure episcopal
services, by the election, in 1786, of the Rev. David Grif-
fith, of Fairfax parish, to the office of Bishop. But we
have melancholy proof of the slender attachment of the
people to the Church and its divine institutions, in the fact,
that the convention did not furnish the means necessary to
defray the expenses of the Bishop-elect in proceeding to
England to procure consecration ; and as his own resources
were too limited to enable him to bear the expense himself,
Dr. Griftith was not consecrated ; and in 1789 he resigned
the honourable appointment to which the suffrages of the
Convention had called him. It was not until one hundred
and eighty-four years after it was first planted at James-
town, that the Church in Virginia received its first Bishop,
in the person of the Right Rev. James Madison, D. D., who
was elected by the convention in 1790, and consecrated at
Lambeth, in September of the same year.
LIFE OP BISHOP MOORE. Ill
Bishop Madison seems to have entered upon the duties
of his office with a sincere desire to elevate the character
of the Church, and to employ a commendable zeal in the
prosecution of such measures as would be likely to promote
its prosperity. In his addresses to the convention he ex-
horted the clergy to fidelity, activity, and energy in the
performance of the various duties of their sacred func-
tion, enforced upon the laity the duty of contributing to
the support of the ministry and other institutions of reli-
gion, recommended the catechising of children, the distri-
bution of religious tracts, and other efforts which seemed
well adapted to advance the interests of truth and piety in
the diocese. But however wise and judicious were his
schemes, and however serious his purpose to have them
carried into execution, it is certain that the result was in
no wise answerable to his anticipations and desires. The
deep-rooted prejudices against the Church grew and
strengthened. The minds of men, animated by the spirit
of revolution — and too often mistaking licentiousness for
liberty — burned with hatred towards every thing connect-
ed with the government whose yoke they had cast off, and
seemed disposed to break loose from all restraints, those of
religion and virtue not excepted. The mad demon of blas-
pheming infidelity, which had rode upon the whirlwind of
the French Revolution, was welcomed as an angel of light
and freedom by the leading civilians of Virginia. And it
was no difficult matter to persuade the vulgar to treat with
abuse and violence the sacred things which their superiors
and leaders contemptuously despised. The sectaries had
long viewed the Church with jealousy, suspicion and hatred,
and were willing to combine with the enemies of all religion
to strip her of her inheritance and lay her dignity in the dust.
This alliance of sectarianism and infidelity in the prosecu-
112 MEMOIR OF THE
tion of a common object, having succeeded in procuring a
repeal of the law incorporating the Episcopal Church in
Virginia, paused not in the prosecution of its end till it had
obtained a sacrilegious enactment confiscating the glebes
and other property of the Church to the uses of the state.
In the midst of these adverse and counteracting influ-
ences the course of the Church in Virginia was constantly
retrograde. Like a strong man, she staggered under the
heavy blows inflicted by her enemies, in rapid succession
one after another, till at length, exhausted and spiritless,
she fell prostrate in the dust. Bishop Madison himself seems
to have yielded to the spirit of the times. Despondency led
to an entire remission of effort; — for several successive
years not even a convention was called, or a single com-
bined attempt made to preserve the Church from irretrieva-
ble ruin. During fifteen years of his episcopate, the state
of ecclesiastical affairs had becom.e more and more disas-
trous ; and then he seemed to be like a pilot with his ship
among the breakers, who, in despair of escape, resigns the
helm, in expectation that his noble barque will soon lie
stranded as a shattered wreck upon the shore.
Need we dwell longer upon the melancholy scene of
spiritual barrenness and desolation which that period of our
ecclesiastical history presents to view? Need we more
minutely recapitulate the painful tale which the faithful
pen of history has recorded in part, and the disgraceful re-
mainder of which the busy, restless tongue of tradition has
not suffered to be forgotten ? Need we say more of the
poor inheritance of unwatchful shepherds and slumbering
flocks — the only relic of a proud establishment that had
survived the revolution ? Need we speak of careless gene-
rations who suffered churches to sink in ruins, ecclesiasti-
cal property to be scattered to the winds — and, in some
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 113
instances, profanely used the sacred vessels of the sanc-
tuary in their bacchanalian orgies ?* No : we need advert
no farther to a former state of things which renders it
almost a miracle that the Church was not utterly extermi-
nated in Virginia. Nought but pure gold could have
abided the test of such a fiery ordeal. No tree except that
which the hand of the Lord hath planted could have sur-
vived the withering effects of such a storm.
But low and prostrate as was the condition of the Church
at the time of which we now write, there were some few
" faithful among the faithless found." Some humble
pastors of the flock who, in the retirement of their parishes,
resisted the influence of the times, and conscientiously per-
formed their duty, without the praise of men, content only
with the approbation of their Lord. Among them there
was one upon whose memory the shades of oblivion should
never settle, for in the darkest period of the Church's
history, he was " a burning and shining light ;" and so long
as truth and holiness continue to be prized in the Church of
Virginia, the thoughts of her devout sons will dwell with
grateful veneration upon the name of Devereux Jarratt.
This extraordinary man, who was self-educated under
the most discouraging circumstances, after his conversion,
devoted himself to the work of preparation for the ministry
with such success that the Bishop of London, who ordained
him, complimented him by saying, that according to the
testimony of Dr. Jortin, and others who examined him, he
passed his trials better than some graduates of Oxford and
Cambridge who received ordination at the same time.
* In one instance a marble baptismal font was converted into a watering
trough for horses ; and in more than one the communion cups were pro-
faned to the same purposes to which Belshazzar degraded the vessels of
the temple at Jerusalem.
114 aiEMOIB OF THE
Having received priest's orders in one week after he was
ordained deacon, at Christmas, 1762, he returned to Virginia,
and in the following August was unanimously received as
minister of the parish of Bath, Dinwiddle county.
Mr. Jarratt was a fearless and zealous advocate of the
great doctrines of the cross, and an uncompromising opposer
of all those worldly vices and pleasures which are incon-
sistent with the Christian profession. He brought strange
things to the ears of his people ; and his style of preaching,
80 entirely different from any thing to which they had been
accustomed, awakened the enmity of their carnal hearts,
and brought forth decided manifestations of hostility. But
in his case, as in all others, the preaching of the pure and
unadulterated Gospel, while it encountered the enmity of
men, was followed by the blessing of God. He preached
the Gospel amidst the effusions of the Holy Ghost. Many
were convinced of sin, and led to inquire " what must we
do to be saved ?" Souls were converted to God ; and at
every communion season " the Lord added to the Church
of such as should be saved." When Mr. Jarratt looked
around him and contemplated the desolations of Zion, his
heart yearned within him, as did that of his Master, when
gazing upon the multitudes, he had compassion on them,
because they were scattered as sheep having no shepherd.
His large soul, glowing with zeal for the salvation of men,
and the glory of Christ, could not rest satisfied while his la-
bours were confined to the limits of a single parish. He
therefore went on enlarging the sphere of his operations,
till it embraced a circuit of hundreds of miles; and he be-
came daily employed in preaching to anxious and solemn
congregations, in different and distant places, the words of
eternal life. He found great delight in thus " doing the
work of an Evangelist." His vigorous mind, lively imagi-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 115
nation, powerful voice, and commanding eloquence, pre-
eminently qualified him for this species of clerical occupa-
tion ; and his itinerating labours awakened a deep interest
in the inhabitants of the district favoured with them, second
only to that produced by those of Whitefield on a more
extended scale. His converts were exceedingly numerous.
Il was not uncommon for him, on sacramental occa-
sions, to administer the Lord's Supper to as many as nine
hundred or a thousand communicants, who, in the judgment
of charity, were meet recipients of that holy mystery.
There are a few aged disciples still living in Virginia, who
acknowledge Jarratt as their spiritual father. Their
countenances kindle with pleasure, and their eyes sparkle
with joy at the mention of his name; and the comparison
which they make between his services and those of modern
ministers, is any thing but complimentary to the clergy of
this generation. These reminiscences, however, ought
doubtless to be received with some qualifications; like all
others which connect themselves with the vivid impres-
sions of youth and childhood.
The spirit of this apostolic man was too uncompromising
and zealous to receive much sympathy from his contem-
poraries. There could be no strong affinity between him
and a class of ecclesiastics who deemed it a hardship to
forego the customary pleasures of the world, and a work of
supererogation even to attempt any thing more than the
perfunctory discharge of the duties of their office.
Mr. Jarratt was treated with too much indifference, not
to say contempt, by many of his clerical brethren, to take
a very active part in the public business or legislation of
the diocese. He never attended more than two or three
conventions. At one of these, held in Richmond, 1792,
he preached the opening sermon. And never, perhaps,
116 MEMOIR OF THE
was there a more faithful exhibition of the spirit of the
Christian minister, of the doctrines he should preach, of
his awful responsibility, and of the eternal consequences of
his labours either in weal or woe to himself and his hearers,
than in the discourse pronounced upon that occasion. At
that Convention he was appointed on a committee to devise
means for carrying into cifect certain canons relating to
discipline ; and immediately after it was desired to assist in
the examination of some candidates for orders. But find-
ing that there was no disposition to render the discipline of
the Church efficacious, and that his refusal, " for good rea-
sons," to recommend two of the candidates, did not prevent
their ordination, he retired, in sorrow and disgust, and
thought himself excused for absenting himself from Con-
ventions ever afterwards.
Still his labours for the benefit of the Church within his
appropriate sphere, were diligent and unwearied as be-
fore, till arrested by disease, he sunk to rest 29th January,
1801, sustained in death by the hopes and consolations of
that Gospel which it had been the joy of his life to pro-
claim to others.
His life, written by himself, in a series of letters to his
friend, the Rev. Mr. Coleman, of Maryland, while it calls
us to grieve over the corruption of human nature in the
records it contains of the opposition he encountered from
brethren of his own household, and of the ingratitude and
treachery of some Methodist preachers, whose labours he
countenanced and favoured, till he discovered that they
had made a schism in the Church ; calls us also to magnify
the grace of God displayed in the instructive experience
and successful ministry of one of the most favoured of his
servants. This autobiography, and three volumes of ser-
mons, published after his death, by some editor who was
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 117
illy qualified to prepare them for the press, are all that re-
main of the productions of that eminent and holy man.
If John Wickliff be appropriately styled the " morning
star of the Reformation" in England, Devereux Jarratt
may be no less truly called the morning star of the revival
of the Church in Virginia. We hope this hasty sketch
will not be deemed a censurable digression. We could
not, perhaps, say more, consistently with the object of the
present w^ork ; we could not have said less, with justice to
our theme, li the "witness" of the departed be "in
heaven, and his record on high," it is but right that a me-
morial of him should be sacredly preserved upon earth.
The names of Jarratt and Moore may be associated here
as their spirits will be there.
In the year 1812, after having occupied the Episcopal
office for more than twenty-one years, Bishop Madison de-
parted this life. Soon after his decease, the Convention,
which had not met since 1805, was assembled, chiefly, it is
presumed, for the purpose of electing a successor. The
Rev. John Bracken, D. D., was duly elected, but was in-
duced by circumstances, afterwards to decline the appoint-
ment. In the journal of the Convention for this year, the
name of the Rev. William Meade appears, for the first
time, as Rector of Christ Church, Alexandria.
This young man, connected with some of the more
wealthy and influential families in Virginia, having been
educated at Nassau Hall, in New Jersey, and brought, at
an early period of life, to know the truth, and experience
the converting power of the Gospel, sympathized with the
pious few scattered throughout the diocese, who, mourning
over the desolations of Zion, " thought upon her stones, and
favoured the dust thereof." Soon after his ordination to
the ministry, he appeared in the Convention of 1812, to
118 MEMOIR OF THE
bear part in its deliberations, and fully purposed to devote
his talents, fortune, and influence to the good work of re-
viving the Church of his fathers. The Rev. John Dunn,
the Rev. William H. Wilnier, and the Rev. Oliver Norris,
(the two latter of whom had come from Maryland in com-
pliance with the solicitations of Mr. M.,) zealously co-
operated with him in his holy enterprise; and several lay-
men of distinction were persuaded also to take an active
part in ecclesiastical affairs. So rapid and effective was
the success of this movement, that in the Convention of
1813, there seems to have been a retirement of those who
had previously governed its operations. The Rev. John
Dunn, William H. Wilmer, Oliver Norris, the Hon. Bush-
rod Washington, Nicholas Fitzhugh, and Edmund I.
Lee, Esqrs., were elected the Standing Committee of the
diocese. The following resolutions exhibit the first fruits
of that new and better influence which had now been
brought to bear upon the interests of truth and piety in the
Church of Virginia. They afforded the earnest of a deter-
mination to active energy in the cause of God, which has
ever since been vigorously maintained. In them we be-
hold the dawning of a light which has continued to shine
with increasing brightness from that day to the present.
" Whereas, from the destitute state of the churches in
this state, many piously disposed persons who are attached
to the doctrine, worship, and discipline of the Protestant
Episcopal Church, are deprived of the means of worship-
ping God according to her venerable forms, to the great un-
happiness of themselves, as well as to the great detriment
of the Church at large;
Resolved, therefore. That it is expedient to raise a fund
for the purpose of aiding in the support of such clergymen
of piety and talents as may be obtained to perform divine
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 119
service in such districts in the state as may be assigned to
them by the Convention.
Resolved, That the clergy and vestry, or any influen-
tial members in the several parishes in the State, be, and
are hereby requested, to use their best endeavours, either
by subscriptions or otherwise, to promote this object.
Resolved, That the members of this Church, generally,
are hereby most earnestly entreated to consider the ne-
cessity o{ adopting zealous measures for the restoration
of religion among us; that they endeavour to manifest
their gratitude to Almighty God, and their sense of the
awful importance of his bl%*sed revelation; that they con-
sider the unspeakable rewards they will receive from that
gracious Master to whom they belong, whose goodness
demands the warmest returns of love, duty, and obedience;
and that they will contribute to the utmost in their power
to render this most acceptable service to his cause.
Resolved, That the Standing Committee do frame an
address on the state of the Church ; and that they cause to
be printed thereof two hundred copies, and to address
them in the form of a circular letter, and accompanied by
the journal, to the Minister and Vestry of each parish, and
to such other persons as may be likely, in their judgment,
to promote the interests of the Church."
It was evident, however, to those who had thus ener-
getically entered upon the good work of restoring a pros-
trate Church, that the noble object of their desire would
never be accomplished but under the supervision, and
through the divinely instituted agency of an Episcopal
head. But the active clergy of the diocese were all too
young for the office. Their attention, of course, was direct-
ed to some other quarter ; and although Dr. Moore was
personally a stranger in Virginia, yet those upon whom
120 JIEMOIR OF THE
Providence had devolved the principal managennent of
diocesan concerns were perfectly united in him as the man
of their choice. There was no fund for the support of a
Bishop ; and but a single congregation in the state that
would be able to elect him as its rector with the oflfer of a
suitable maintenance. That was the congregation of the
Monumental Church, Richmond, who were then erecting
a costly edifice upon the site of the theatre destroyed Dec.
2Gth, 1811, by a fearful conflagration, in which more than
one hundred persons had been consumed; being sum-
moned as in the twinkling of an eye from a gay spectacle
of worldly amusement into tl^ presence of their Judge !
It was an event which carried sorrow into many a domes-
tic circle. The citizens were prompted by it to the speedy
erection of an edifice which would at once commemorate
that fearful visitation of God's judgment, and at the same
time furnish them with more suitable accommodations in
humbling themselves before him in acts of penitence, sup-
plication, and praise.
The leading friends of the Church at once set themselves
at work to obtain Dr. Moore's consent to be elected as
rector of the principal Church in the Metropolis, and
Bishop of the Diocese. They commenced their efl^orts be-
fore Dr. Bracken officially made known his declinature to
the Convention of 1813. The first letter addressed to him
upon the subject was dated in January of that year.
But the history of the whole negotiation, the earnestness
with which the appeal was prosecuted on their part, and
the delicacy and discretion manifested on his, will be most
readily and satisfactorily learned from a perusal of the
correspondence itself.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 121
LETTERS ON REMOVING TO THE EPISCOPATE OF VIRGINIA.
January 27th, 1813.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — We have good reason for believing
that the Rev. Dr. Bracken, elected Bishop of Virginia will
decline consecration. In that event we shall have to turn
our attention to some other person suitable to fill that holy
and important office. But really. Sir, Virginia presents not,
in our estimation, one, in whom the qualities essential for
such an office unite. In the consideration of this melancho-
ly fact, the Rev. Mr. Meade and I take the liberty of
opening a confidential communication with you upon this
subject; should you think proper to encourage our wishes,
we shall take care to proceed in a manner likely to obviate
(in case of disappointment) the delicate embarrassments to
which your feelings might be subjected. Richmond is now
vacant, and would offer a favourable situation for the
residence of a Bishop. Could you pay it a visit, it would,
1 doubt not, facilitate the object we have in view. The
inhabitants of that place have, I hope, derived some advan-
tage from their calamities, and are desirous of obtaining a
man of zeal and piety. It would be a great pity that these
poor lacerated lambs should fall into the hands of an un-
faithful Shepherd. Besides this, Richmond, in its relation
to the other parts of Virginia, is an infinitely important
situation ; it is the heart, and if it be unsound, the body
and extremities must of course be unhealthful. It is right
to remark, however, that the probable salary at that place
may not be equal to that of New York. But there is no
doubt that a faithful discharge of the itinerary duties of a
Diocesan would command an increase of salary adequate
to your wishes. The state of the Church in Virginia is
indeed most deplorable.
53
122 MEMOIR OF THE
The desolations of many generations are to be repaired ;
yet the prepossessions throughout the state are remarkably
in favour of Episcopal principles and worship, and amidst
the widely extended ruin, furnish a foundation for the hope
that, under pure and faithful men, her walls might be built
up, and herself advanced to a grade equal, at least, to that
of her sister Churches. The task, though arduous, is noble
and glorious, and as such has claim to the favourable con-
sideration of those whom God hath endowed with talents
for so great a work. I wish you could make a visit to
Richmond this winter. I cannot express the idea of import-
ance, which belongs to the right management of the
Church there. It is the place of meeting for the legislature:
tbe resort of persons from all parts of the state, and conse-
quently the state of the Church there, would affect most
materially, if not form, its character and influence through-
out Virginia. I have a threefold motive to urge me in the
request that you would pay it a visit soon: one of which,
though the least, is, the pleasure it would afford to
Yoxir affectionate brother in the Gospel,
W. H. WiLMER.
REPLY.
No Date.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — The important nature of the com-
munication with which you have favoured me, must apolo«
gize to you for any apparent neglect with which my long
silence may have impressed your mind. The subject is of
a description so serious, and involves in it such weighty con-
siderations, that I have not, until within a few days, been
prepared to give you an answer. There are no privations
of a personal nature, to which I would not cheerfully sub-
mit, were T persuaded that my labours among you would
LIFE OP BISHOP MOORE. 123
be productive of those good effects which you so fondly an-
ticipate. From the duties attached to the office in question,
however arduous and extensive, I should not for a moment
shrink, were I assured that Divine Providence had fixed
upon me as the individual to extend the interests of his
Church, and to repair the desolations of which you so feel-
ingly complain : but as the way appears to me so obscured
by doubts, I dare not venture to comply, lest after having
embarked in that cause, I should be denied that assistance
without which the labours of a Paul would prove barren
and unprofitable. With respect to the maintenance I
should receive, I entertain no fears, as I firmly believe that
a faithful man would be furnished with every necessary
support. To live in luxury and pomp, a Christian Bishop
has no claim ! but while he serves his Master with fidelity,
things convenient will be afforded him. Elijah's God will be
his God, the barrel of meal, and the cruse of oil will be for-
bidden to fail. Be pleased to accept my sincere thanks for
the good opinion which you entertain of me. May that
God whom we serve in the Gospel direct your attention to
some person better qualified for the office in contemplation!
May the solemn trust be confided to no man to whose heart
the Saviour is not precious, the chief among ten thousand,
and altogether lovely ! Present my sincere respects to my
Rev. brother, Mr. Meade, and accept for yourself the
assurance of that affection with which
I remain
Your Brother in the Gospel
of the Lord Jesus,
R. C. MoORE.
124 MEMOIR OF THE
Alexandria, March 4th, 1813.
Rev. Sir, — Let the importance of the subject excuse a
stranger in addressing you. I was associated with Mr.
Wilmer in writing you a letter concerning our unhappy
Church, and the city of Richmond, the one wanting a head,
and the other a pastor. A few days since an unwelcome
answer was received, and yet I cannot despair, because I
think that God yet means well to us. I do not wonder at
your doubts, fears, and backwardness ; but these, I think,
will all give way when you shall come and visit us, and see
how things stand. The object of this letter is to persuade
you to make us a visit as soon as you conveniently can. I
hope and believe, Sir, that you have given yourself up to
God, and that you wish to serve him, and desire to know
and do his will. This is all we want of you, to come and
see if it be not God's will that you abide among us. I doubt
not you will be informed truly of God. Now, Sir, is the
trying and critical moment. Now is to be decided whether
God means to keep a remnant of our Church alive
among us, or to destroy it entirely. The town of Rich-
mond contains by far the largest body of Episcopalians in the
Southern country. If some one of suitable talents and real
piety does not go there, it will either fall into the hands of
some miserable creature, (many of whom have already been
fawning for it) or, if a clever Presbyterian should offer, they
will throw away Episcopacy, and fall under his banners.
And if Episcopacy dies there, at the heart, of course it dies
elsewhere. This is the central place: here each winter the
assembly of the state sits. The supreme court, and the
Convention of the clergy meet here also. You would
have a large and respectable congregation; hitherto they
have not heard the truth, but now I believe they are well-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 125
disposed to receive it, and would despise the man who
should not declare it. I received a letter from one of its
members a few days since; I will repeat his own words:
*' From your character of Dr. Moore, I have no question of
his being invited to take charge of our flock, provided he
would visit us and preach to us. Before the ensuing au-
tumn some proper person must be fixed on, or there is an
end of episcopacy in the metropolis of Virginia." Your
election to the high office of Bishop, I have no doubt, would
follow your acceptance of the Church in Richmond, and
here also in time you might be of great service. If ever
our Church is doomed to rise, it must begin by a Bishop of
zeal and talents fixed in Richmond. No evil can ensue
from your visiting us, much good may. I think. Sir, you
ought to take the subject into serious consideration, and
consider not only the good that may be done by coming,
but the evil that might follow from not coming. Certain ,
I am, that unless we have a Bishop of real piety, zeal,
and talents in Richmond, episcopacy is gone forever. If
such a person was there, I think it highly probable, from
present circumstances, that in many places she would rise
from the dust.
Believe me,
Your friend and brother,
VVm. Meade.
REPLY TO. MR. MEADE.
No date.
" Rev. and dear Sir : — In reflecting upon the plan pro-
posed to me by Mr. Wilmer and yourself, I have in vain
looked for those evidences, which were necessary to con-
126 ME3I0IR OF THE
vince me that it was my duty to acquiesce. Had I con-
sented to the proposition, I must have done so without that
full persuasion which was necessary to my own quiet. My
advances, therefore, would have been so tremulous that
your expectations would have been disappointed, and the
cause injured which you are both so anxious to promote.
Could I have felt the pressure of duty upon my conscience,
it would have required more than a human arm to have
arrested me in the prosecution of the measure ; but want-
ing that evidence, I have taken it for granted that your
partialities have misled you, and that I am not the indi-
vidual calculated for the work. To be instrumental in
raising Zion from her ruins, and in repairing her waste
and desolate places ; to be instrumental in advancing the
Redeemer's kingdom, and in bringing sinners to the fold of
Jesus, is a work in which my soul delights, and wherever I
have seen a solitary individual grounding his weapons of
rebellion, and lifting up the voice of supplication to the
throne of Grace, my heart has vibrated with pleasure, and
I have sung and given praise with the best m.embcr that I
have. How much more should I exult in seeing your Church
shaking herself from the dust, divested of the spirit of hea-
viness, and putting on those beautiful garments, in which
Zion will appear when in a state of prosperity and joy.
I hope you will pardon my long silence, for, rely upon it,
that if your subject had been of less importance it should
have been immediately attended to, but involving in it such
deep considerations, I have not been able to answer you one
moment sooner.
Believe me, in great truth.
Your brother in Christ,
Richard Channing Moore.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 127
Alexandria, Nov. 19th, 1813.
Rev. Sir, — The founders of the new Episcopal Church
in the city of Richmond in Virginia, being anxious that it
should be filled by a clergyman of talents, respectability
and piety, have done us the honour of requesting us to in-
vite, in their names, such a character to visit them, with a
view of engaging him to accept of the charge. From the
inquiries we have made of those whose opinions are enti-
tled to great respect, as to the proper character to fill so
important a station, we consider you as the person best
suited to the place, and object of our friends. Under this
impression, we, on behalf and in the name of the Episcopal
congregation in Richmond, ask the favour of you to visit
the people of that congregation. It is the wish and desire,
not only of the members of the Richmond Church, but of
others belonging to the Episcopal Churches in the state of
Virginia, that whoever is fixed as the established minister
of that Church, should be appointed Bishop of the State.
If it should be consistent with your views to accept this in-
vitation, we have reason to expect you will find induce-
ments to make Richmond your place of residence, and that
an ample field of usefulness will then be opened unto you.
Your early reply will much oblige us.
We are, Rev. Sir,
Your most obt. servants,
BusHROD Washington,
Edmund I. Lee.
TO BUSHROD WASHINGTON, ESQ.
New York, Dec. 16th, 1813.
Dear Sir, — The situation in which Providence hath
placed me, and the blessings with which my labours in this
128 MEMOIR OF THE
city have been attended, would render me extremely cul-
pable, were 1 to listen to any invitation, or consent to any
change, except such an one as bore the evident traces of
his own divine appointment. The destinies of my life I
have long since submitted to the God I serve ; it is there-
fore my duty, and I can assert with truth that it is my in-
clination, to be disposed of agreeably to his will. Could I
be convinced that the sphere of my usefulness would be en-
larged, or the cause of the Redeemer be promoted, by my
removal to Virginia, I should think it criminal to hesitate
a moment, or to indulge the least fear or apprehension.
Your address to me upon the subject has excited my deep-
est attention, and has led me to seek most ardently for the
direction of heaven upon the occasion, and although lean-
not consent to visit Richmond as you propose, still I should
not feel myself justifiable, were I to decline altogether the
propositions you have made me. With respect to pecu-
niary matters, my present establishment is so comfortable,
that I stand in need of no change ; under this impression it
would be imprudent in me to risk the alienation of my peo-
ple's regard, by looking for a settlement which perhaps
may not be within the control of my friends at the south-
ward: for a man. Sir, who has seen fifty years, to rush into
such an experiment, would betray, in my opinion, a want
of those solid principles necessary to preserve the confidence
of my old friends, and to secure the good opinion of those
with whose acquaintance I may hereafter be honoured ; in
addition to which evil it would discover also a wish to lead,
instead of being led by Providence. Should the congrega-
tion of the Episcopal Church at Richmond, from the repre-
sentations of character which they may have received of
me, think proper to call me as their rector, with a suitable
support, and should the Convention of the state unite in my
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 129
election to the episcopate, I should think it my duty
to make them as early a visit as possible in order to
converse with the leading members of the Church upon
the subject, and to come to an immediate conclusion re-
specting the expediency of my removal. The Church in
Virginia, I have been informed, is from a variety of cir-
cumstances in a depressed situation. Should it fall to my
lot to be appointed to watch over her interests, my utmost
energies shall be exerted in repairing her waste and deso-
late places : it is the society, Sir, into whose bosom I was
received at my baptism, and in whose religious peculiari-
ties I have been educated from my infancy. To see her
lay by her weeds and put on her beautiful garments, in
which Zion in her prosperity shall be arrayed, would con-
vey to my mind sensations of the purest joy. To promote
this object, fidelity in her clergy is an indispensable requi-
site. To produce this effect they must be labourers indeed
in the Vineyard of the Redeemer.
Believe me, dear Sir, &c.
Richard Channing Moore.
Alexandria, Dec. 28th, 1813,
Rev. and dear Sir, — The same mail which conveys this
contains one also from the Standing Committee. We ar-
dently desire the supply of Richmond with a faithful and
evangelical minister, and the Church with an apostolic
Bishop. Such have been the representations of character
in your behalf, as to authorise the expectation of seeing in
you these qualities exemplified. The Church in Virginia
is in a peculiar situation. Its having been once the esta-
blished Church, the prevalence and virulence of other de-
nominations, the sequestration of its glebes, the irregularity
130 MEMOIR OF THE
of the lives of its ministers, and various political causes
have combined to svv'ell high the tide of public opinion and
indeed of odium against her public form of service, her
surplices, and all the paraphernalia of clerical costume.
Although this sentiment does not prevail in all its force in
this place, or in Richmond, yet they present powerful ob-
stacles to the Episcopal ministry. Under these circum-
stances, and to hearts thus constructed, it appears to me
that no man can carry our forms, in all their rubrical rigour,
with any prospect of success. He must give it to them
gradually as they can bear it, he must deal with them as
with babes, with discretion and zeal correct their taste,
and strengthen their appetite until they can digest stronger
food. If there be not a discretionary power in the clergy,
verily I know not who will be innocent in these matters.
This discretion, I am well aware, should be exercised with
great caution, and with a solemn view to the responsibility
of evading a rule sanctioned by the Church, and our ordi-
nation vows. We want a Bishop who will watch over his
clergy with tears and tenderness; who will be an example
as well as teacher to his flock ; who will know nothing
among us *•' save Jesus Christ and him crucified ;" and who
while he inculcates a due reverence for our venerable
forms of doctrine, discipUne, and worship, as being of apos-
tolic authority, will at the same time direct his best ener-
gies towards the end of all religious institutions, namely,
the deliverance of immortal souls from hell. Such a bishop
will have our co-operation, our love, and our prayers. It
was, therefore, with heart-felt pleasure, we received the
first intimation of hope that the Church could procure you.
Sir, in whom we believe these qualities to unite, as our
diocesan. In these sentiments, I think I speak those of the
clergy and laity of my acquaintance in this state, and had
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 131
we been so unfortunate as to obtain a Bishop of other views,
the genius and temper of Virginia would have rendered his
offices as disagreeable to him, as they would have been in-
efficacious to the prosperity of the Church over which he
presided.
Permit me to add my own opinion and wishes to those of
the Standing Committee in relation to your making them
a speedy visit at Richmond.
I am, dear sir, Slc,
W. H, WiLMER.
New York, Jan. 8lh, 1814.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — The prejudices which are enter-
tained by many of the Virginians, against the services of
the Church, and the appropriate costume of the clergy
afibrd matter of considerable surprise to a person bred in
this part of the union. Every denomination of Christians
possesses some distinguished feature by which they are
known, and it appears to me that the people would have
reason to be displeased, w'ere their clergymen so far to aber-
rate from these peculiarities of their religious profession, as
to lose sight of those marks by which they have always
been characterized. Educated in the bosom of the Epis-
copal Church, I have always been taught to entertain the
most profound respect for all her services: her liturgy, in
particular, forming the very expression of that devotion
in which rny forefathers w^orshipped God, is peculiarly dear
to me ! In addition to which, the consideration of my ordi-
nation vows binds me to the public observance of it, by a
tie which it would be criminal to rend asunder. Let the
ministers of the Church tread in the steps of their Divine
Master 1 Let them visit the sick, and bind up the broken-
132 MEMOIR OF THE
hearted ! Let the poor of Christ's flock be the objects of
their care ! Let such be their conduct, and I will venture
to predict that the mountains of opposition will in a little
time become a plain, the Prayer-book will be venerated,
our ceremonies approved, the cause of the Church be pro-
moted, and penitent sinners will seek for an asylum in
our bosoms, and attach themselves to the standard of our
profession. Should I ever settle among you, I trust that
the Lord Jesus will go with me to bless me. The moment
the people of Richmond choose me as their Rector, I will
make arrangements to visit them. It rests very much with
themselves to afford me the pleasure of seeing and convers-
ing with you.
Believe me, yours, &c.,
Richard Channing Moore.
Ret. W. H. Wilmer.
EXTRACT OF A LETTER.
Alexandria, Dec. 18th, 1813.
" 1 hope God will enable you to make up your mind very
soon, and that you will lose no time, but come on as soon
as possible. I think it important for you to visit the Church
at Richmond, from all I know and have heard upon the
subject ; you are the very person who will be their choice;
and, further, our Church here is without a diocesan, and
you may rest assured, my dear sir, that you are the cler-
gyman who will meet the wishes of a great majority.
" Yours, &,c.,
0. NORRIS."
Alexandria, March 9th, 1814.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — Your favour of the 5th came duly
to hand. I can well conceive, sir, and I assure you I enter
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 133
with lively interest into the delicate considerations suggest-
ed in your letter. If any serious opposition to our views were
apprehended, I should feel it due to you to make known
those difficulties. But as far as I am acquainted, there is no
serious difficulty to be anticipated. Mr. Meade, Mr. Norris,
Mr. Dunn, Mr, McGuire, a candidate for orders, now officiat-
ing at Fredericksburg, with his delegation, are all favour-
able to our wishes. Much reliance is placed on these gentle-
men, and those with whom I have the pleasure of being asso-
ciated in the Standing Committee, for the great influence
they possess throughout the State. The other gentlemen
of the clergy, I am not well acquainted with, except Mr.
Boggs, and Mr. Woodville. I have not had an opportunity
of sounding them upon the subject, but presume, from the
general tenor of their sentiments and conduct, that they
would be with us. But it is our general opinion that these
facilities will be much increased by your attendance at
our State Convention.
Yours, &,c. &c.,
W. H. WiLMER.
New York, December 18th, 1813.
Dear Sir, — The Rev. Dr. Moore, of this city, has con-
sulted me on the subject of the overtures which he has
received from Virginia. The situation of our Church
in that state has long excited the lively sympathy of all
her friends. It must be evident that she can be raised, as
a Church, from her present depressed condition, only by the
blessing of God on the labours of a pious and zealous clergy,
who, faithfully fulfilling their ordination vows, inculcate her
evangelical doctrines, and steadfastly adhere to her apos-
tolic order and primitive worship. These are the views,
I am happy to find, which Dr. Moore entertains, and the
L 2
134 MEMOIR OF THE
principles by which, should he remove to Virginia, it is his
determination to regulate his conduct. It gives me plea-
sure, therefore, to assure you, that should his settlement
in Virginia be effected, his brethren here cherish the san-
guine hope that his ministrations will be greatly instrumen-
tal in the promotion of real religion, agreeably to the pure
and primitive institutions of our Church, and thus, in raising
that Church from her present depressed situation. An ad-
ditional pledge of this happy event is afforded by the con-
fidence which the communications to him authorize, that
the holy and interesting cause of reviving the Church in
Virginia, has already engaged the active zeal, not only of
many of her clergy, but of distinguished laymen, whose
counsel and co-operation cannot fail of producing the hap-
piest effects. I have written this letter, of which you can
make what use you think proper, with the knowledge of
Dr. Moore, and also the enclosed, which I must beg you to
transmit to Richmond.
With my respects to the clergy of our Church in your
city,
I remain, dear sir,
Your friend and obedient servant,
J. H. HOBART.
Edmund I. Lee, Esq.
December 31st, 1813.
Dear Sir, — Vour communications concerning Dr. Moore I
have received, and am well pleased with; I think his conduct
very correct. His proposals raise him in my estimation.
I think we may venture to assure him of the office of
Bishop. I hope the people of Richmond will accept his
terms; if they are wise, or if God yet smiles on Episcopacy,
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 135
they will gladly take him. I believe I shall write to Dr.
Brockenborough on the subject. Dr. Moore should be in
Richmond before April. I am truly sorry that you will be
absent when I come down. God willing, nothing prevent-
ing, 1 shall be there toward the last of next week. I shall
certainly be often at your house.
With prayers for the welfare of your soul, and the hap-
piness of your present life,
I remain your sincere friend,
William Meade.
Mr. Edmund I. Lee,
Alexandria, D. C.
TO THE REV. W. H. WILMER.
March, 2.3d, 1814.
The attempt which I made to visit you last month has
excited a great sensation in the minds of my congregation
in this city, several of whom have discovered a temper
very unsuitable, and totally unmerited by me; for Heaven
is my witness, how ardently and unceasingly I have endea-
voured to ascertain the will of God, respecting the concern
to which our attention has been called. Not a resolution
have I adopted, nor a step have 1 taken, without looking
for that direction, both from Heaven and my brethren, so
necessary in a matter of such infinite importance. From
the experience which I have derived from a variety of
sources, I have concluded that it would be extremely
hazardous for me to see Virginia prior to the meeting of
your next Convention ; for should you be disappointed in
your expectations, the reception which I should meet on
my return, I plainly perceive, would infinitely distress me:
not that I believe the generality of my flock would act
136 3IE5IOIR OF THE
unkindly towards me, or be indisposed duly to appreciate
my motives, but as all men are not equally benevolent,
some would be found to act in a manner inimical to my
peace and comfort. The business, my beloved sir, must,
therefore, rest upon the basis of that answer, which I re-
turned to the letter I received from Judge Washington,
viz : " should the congregation at Richmond choose me as
their Rector, with a suitable support, and should the
Church of Virginia elect me to the Episcopate, my utmost
energies shall be exerted to promote the happiness and
prosperity of both."
Philadelphia, April 7th, 1814.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — When I left Alexandria, we were
anxiously expecting your arrival at that place, on your way
to Richmond. Until this morning, I had supposed that you
had passed on, and was regretting to Dr. Blackwell and
Mr. Kemper, that 1 had lost the pleasure of seeing you,
when they informed me that you had declined making your
visit to Virginia, previous to the meeting of the Convention.
With the most respectful deference to your judgment, I
think that a visit to Richmond, prior to the meeting of the
Convention, would be in itself a proper measure. 1 know
it would be highly gratifying to the Episcopalians of that
city ; and I cannot believe that it would in any respect
violate that delicacy which I know to be attached to your
character, and which I understand has principally in-
fluenced your decision on this occasion. I should consider
it not unreasonable, that those who are desirous of filling
the highest station in the Church with a person most fit to
discharge the functions of it, should be indulged in the wish
they would naturally feel to hear him preach, and to form
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 137
a personal acquaintance with him. I should hope that any
objection wojild appear to you insufficient to prevent your
going on as early in this nnonth as your convenience will
permit. I ought to observe that the expectation of our
friends in Richmond, on this subject, is founded upon our
letters to them, stating that it was your intention to visit
them — which we confidently calculated would take place
during the last or the present month.
lam, dear sir, &-c.,
BusHROD Washington.
New York, April 25th, 1814.
My Dear Sir, — I have furnished the Rev. Dr. Moore
with the testimonial required by the canons in the case of a
removal from one diocese to another. I deem it, however,
an act of justice to him, further to state to you, that Dr.
Moore's ministrations have been uniformly respectable,
popular, and useful. He evinces sincere attachment to the
doctrines, the order, and the worship of the venerable
Church in which he has been educated, and in which he
has been for many years a zealous labourer. And such
is the confidence placed in his fidelity to his principles,
and in his prudent and zealous efforts to advance her in-
terests, should the order of Providence remove him to
Virginia, that I believe he will go there w^ith the good wishes
and the prayers of his brethren generally in this quarter.
I very sincerely declare that Dr. Moore's intercourse with
me is so frank, respectful, and friendly, and he appears so
heartily disposed to co-operate with me in advancing the
common interest of our Zion,that I shall regret his removal
from this diocese, at the same time that I trust and be-
lieve that his ministrations and labours, by the blessing of
138 MEMOIR OF THE
God, will be advantageous to the cause of religion and the
Church in Virginia.
I remain, dear sir,
Very sincerely and respectfully,
Your obedient friend and brother,
J. H. HOBART.
Edmund I. Lee, Esa.
In this correspondence Dr. Moore displays the very spirit
which became his character and station. He dared not
declare that under no circumstances would he consent to
be elevated to the high office which he was solicited to ac-
cept ; lest haply he should contravene the divine will in
this particular. Yet, situated as he was, in a position of
great usefulness, where he enjoyed every thing that was
necessary to his temporal comfort and happiness, he could
not, conscientiously, do any thing which would seem like
anticipating the designs of Providence, or of contributing
to his own promotion. He therefore respectfully but firm-
ly declined the repeated and earnest solicitations of his
friends to visit Virginia before his mind was convinced that
he had been duly called there " according to the will of
our Lord Jesus Christ and the order of the Church."
It was made known to the Convention, which assembled
in Richmond on the 4th of May, 1814, that Dr. Moore had
been appointed Rector of the Monumental Church ; where-
upon, the Convention proceeded to the election of a Bishop,
in which every vote, save one, was for him.
At the time of Dr. Moore's election, there were but four
acting bishops in the United States. The event, therefore,
afTorded high satisfaction ; not only as contributing to the
promotion of truth and piety in the Church, but because
it relieved the fears, which many began to entertain, that
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 139
death might reduce the number of our bishops below that
which is necessary to constitute an Episcopal College.
This was the first instance in the United States of the
election of a clergyman as Bishop in any other Diocese
than that in which he was resident ; and the first, save one,
of the election to the Episcopate of one holding those views
of theological doctrines, and ecclesiastical usages, which
characterize what is called the "evangelical" school. But
the example has been since extensively followed, in both
particulars, with signal advantage to the Church.
On the 18th of May, 1814, Dr. Moore was consecrated to
the ofiice of Bishop, in St. James' Church, Philadelphia, by
the Rt. Rev. William White, presiding Bishop, assisted by
Bishops Hobart, Griswold, and Dehon. In the sermon
preached upon the occasion, by Bishop Hobart, the follow-
ing animating passages are found.
" The night of adversity has passed, and the morning, I
would fain hope, of a long and splendid day is dawning on
the Church in V^irginia. I think I see the pledge of this
in the attachment to our Church, and in the anxious desire
to serve her, manifested by laymen of the highest influence
and talents, and by a few zealous clergy. They have com-
bined, and they have resolved, under God, that the Church
in Virginia shall not perish. From my soul I revere and
love them for the holy resolve. My God! in this remem-
ber them for good. The first fruits of their labours we
witness this day.
"To counsel, to lead, to strengthen them in their exertions;
to revive, among a numerous and widely extended popula-
tion, the spirit of piety ; to make known, valued and loved,
the evangelical and primitive institutions of our Church;
to make these institutions and services, under God, the in-
struments of bringing again the outcast, and reclaiming the
140 MEMOIR OF THE
lost, of conviction and conversion to the sinner, of holiness
and comfort to the saint, is the work of imminent difficulty
and hazard ; but I trust, by God's blessing, of success and
honour, to which you, my Reverend brother, will be called."
" I owe it to you to declare, that in relation to the Episco-
pate of Virginia, you were pressed with an urgency which
would not admit of a refusal ; and that your whole conduct
in respect to it has been marked by a frankness, and con-
ciliation, and a zeal for the interests of religion and the
Church, which have removed every difficulty that might
have impeded your elevation to the Episcopal office. We
shall now follow you to your arduous station with our best
wishes and our prayers. It must be apparent that you
make no inconsiderable sacrifice of personal ease. At a
period of life when you must have begun to look forward
to a degree of rest from the conflicts of active duty, you
are called on to exchange the comforts of your native city,
and the attentions of a congregation warmly attached to
you, for a land of strangers, and for the difficulties of a
depressed and extensive Diocese. Still, in the labours of
the field on which you enter, you will meet, we trust, with
zealous coadjutors in the clergy and laity, who, in a man-
ner very honourable to yourself, have chosen you for their
Diocesan ; and who have, by this act, pledged themselves
to support you in the fulfilment of your consecration vows,
to extend and to maintain the doctrine, discipline, and wor-
ship of our Church. Among the laity whose talents and
influence will be called to your aid, I perceive some of my
most early and valued friends. From the people generally
among whom you will labour, you will, I am satisfied,
receive every kind attention that can tend to lessen the
burden of your cares. The state of society and manners
among those with whom your future life is to be passed,
LIFK OF BISHOP MODRE. 141
(I speak from some degree of personal knowledge) needs
only the purifying and elevating influence of religion to
become in a high degree interesting, and a source of per-
sonal gratification. But you must look beyond all earthly
aids and consolations, to those which your Lord and Master
only can confer. Should the spirit of unfeigned and bum-
ble piety, regulated and cherished by the sound doctrines,
the primitive order, and the truly evangelical services and
institutions of our Church, be revived in the scene of your
future labours, with what delight shall we all look back
to the service of this day ! And how fervent will be our
thanks to God, who hath made you the instrument of this
great good !"
When the testimonials of Dr. Moore were presented for
signature in the House of Clerical and Lay Deputies, one of
the members rose in his place and declared that on account
of the well known " irregularities," as he was pleased to
style them, of the Dr. in holding lecture room services,
prayer-meetings, &c. he had entertained conscientious
scruples about signing his credentials; but intimated that
he had received such explanations and assurances from the
candidate as had relieved his mind from difficulty and
induced him to give his assent to the consecration. This
circumstance, together with an equivocal passage in Bishop
Hobart's sermon, led some to apprehend that undue
concessions had been made, and that the Bishop would
repudiate the principles and usages by which the ministry
of the Presbyter had been guided. The writer, then a
youthful deacon, formed one of a small circle assembled at
the house of Dr. Pilmore, on the afternoon of the day of
the consecration. That circle was composed of the warm
personal friends of Dr. Moore and his well-known princi-
ples. The rumours and surmises respecting the alleged
142 MEMOIR OF THE
change in his views were incidentally mentioned, but with
regret and incredulity, among other topics of conversation.
At about the same instant the Bishop entered the room;
when Dr. Pilmore, rising from his seat, advanced to meet
him, profoundly bowing in the most formal and ceremo-
nious manner, while he said, substantially, " I feel proud
and happy to welcome the Bishop of Virginia under my
humble roof; we hardly knew, after what we had heard,
whether you would mingle with your old friends any more.'"
The answer was, " Poh ! poh ! my old friend, no more of
that ; you will find me to be the same Richard Moore still."
No explanations were asked, and none were given ; but
if there had been any misgivings on the part of any there,
the whole character of the interview was well adapted to
remove them. At its close, we bowed our knees before
the throne of grace, and united in a fervent prayer offered
up by the newly consecrated Bishop.
'Soon after the adjournment of the General Convention,
he repaired to Richmond ; visiting and preaching at Alex-
andria and Fredericksburg, on his way thither. The chief
object of this visit was to become acquainted with his new
flock, and prepare for the permanent location of his family.
His first impressions respecting the field of his future la-
bours, of the character of the people with whom he was
thenceforth to be connected in the pastoral relation, and of
the field of usefulness opened to him in the diocese, are briefly
noticed in the following letters to Edmund I. Lee, Esq.
Richmond, June 28th. 1814.
My Beloved Sir, — Strange that I should be obliged to
offer to your generous mind, the attentions of those friends
to whom you have introduced me, as a cause for the silence
which I have observed towards you ; but however strange
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 143
it may appear, it is not the less true. The engagements
in which I have been involved since my arrival in this
place, have swallowed up all my time, and prevented me
from expressing to you those grateful sensations with which
your friendship has inspired my mind. To my divine Master
I refer you for remuneration ; may his blessing be the por-
tion of you and yours- I have lamented exceedingly that
my indisposition, while in Alexandria, closed the door of
almost ail communication between your amiable com-
panion and myself; when the head is sick, the heart is
literally faint. When I return, however, to fetch my fa-
mily, I hope I shall enjoy all my usual health, and then
Mrs. Lee and myself will have an opportunity of saying
every thing, which the subject of divine things may sug-
gest. I have written to Mr. Wilmer, requesting him to
return my thanks to those gentlemen who kindly attended
me to Fredericksburg, and to declare to all my acquaint-
ances in Alexandria, the esteem which I entertain for them.
As he is very systematic in his operations, I take it for
granted that he has complied with my wishes. I am at
present at the house of my valued friend, Dr. B. St. Paul,
in his excursions, was never better received, nor more
affectionately treated. I am highly pleased with those
features of vital piety which I discover among the ladies of
this city. So far from being ashamed of religion, or its
illustrious founder, they are proud of giving it that place
to which it is so justly entitled. Remember me to all my
friends in your district. Assure Judge Washington of my
most respectful attentions, and accept for yourself the re-
gard and best wishes of,
Dear sir.
Your obedient friend and servant,
Richard Channing Moore.
144 MEJIOIR OF THE
Richmond, January 24, 1815.
Dear Sir, — The religious prospect which presents itself
to mv view in this city, is, perhaps, as encouraging as I
could reasonably have expected. It has been my object,
since nrty settlement with this congregation, to cultivate a
friendship with the leading families, in order that I might
be able to form an opinion of those features of character
and disposition, by which they are distinguished. This
measure I conceived to be indispensably necessary, as with-
out it, I should never be capable of correctly ascertaining
the best mode of conveying useful instruction to their minds.
The labours of a clergyman, however well meant those la-
bours may be, unless seasoned with prudence, will often
prove, not only abortive, but subversive of the very effect
which he might have intended to produce. A knowledge
of character ought, therefore, to be obtained, if possible, in
order that the surest avenue to the heart and understand-
ing may be discovered and improved. The polite atten-
tion with which myself and family are treated, I consider
as an evidence of the respect they bear to me, and of that
interest which they feel in my personal comfort; and from
the uniform attendance of our first citizens upon my public
labours, I take it for granted that they are disposed to
encourage me in the prosecution of that great work in
which I am engaged. My mode of preaching, you know,
from the small specimen which you have had of it, is evan-
gelical; exposing to view the awful degeneracy of man, and
leading him from every other dependence, to the Lord
Jtsus Christ for succour and salvation. I have hitherto
confined myself to those discourses which I had composed
in i\e\v York, and which God did bless in that city, to the
conversion of many who heard them. Upon the truth of
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 145
those views which they embrace, I am willing to risk my
everlasting all ; and as I have discovered no indisposition
in the people of my present charge to listen to them, I pro-
claim them without reserve. At our last sacrament we
were joined by several new members, and I entertain a
hope that the number will continue to increase. Within
the last month, I have visited the congregation at Peters-
burg, and held a confirmation in that place; and it is with
great pleasure I inform you, that Mr. G. K. T. presented
himself to receive that holy rite, and assured me before I
left his house, that as I had introduced family prayer in his
dwelling, it should be his duty to perpetuate the observance
of it ; indeed, my friend, from all the conversation between
himself and lady, and myself, J am obliged to conclude that
their hearts are deeply affected with divine things. Mr.
W. M,, of this city, has also commenced the practice of
family devotion, and is always in his pew twice upon every
Sabbath. I have lately passed a Sabbath at the Rock
Church, in Hanover, and have been assured by Dr. B.,
who is an eminent Christian, that our labours in that parish
have been sanctified to the souls of several of the inhabi-
tants. As a proof of that sensation which was produced,
he waited upon me a few days since, in company with Mr.
P., of that neighbourhood, in order to inform me that a
subscription had been opened for the support of the Gospel,
and that they were now ready to receive such evangelical
help, as I might be enabled to furnish them with. I have
also been visited, within a few days, by Chancellor T.,and
a Mr. VV., of Cumberland County, who informed me that
a clergyman of piety could be supported in the parishes in
their neighbourhood; and that if the people approve of
the labours of the individual whom I might send, there
was little doubt but a glebe would be purchased for his
M 2
146 MEMOIR OF THE
residence. " The harvest," my beloved sir, " is great, but
the labourers are few; pray ye, therefore, the Lord of the
harvest to send forth labourers into his vineyard." The
affliction with which your city has been visited, in the late
epidemic, and the loss which your Church has sustained, in
the death of several of its members, has excited my sincerest
sympathy ; that God, however, by whose permission it has
been allowed to exercise its desolating effects, can restrain
it the moment he sees fit; and when it shall have accom-
plished the designs of his providence, it will be removed.
The duty, therefore, of his dependent creatures, consists in
submitting to his will, " knowing that all things shall work
together for good to those who love God." The pestilence,
you informed me, entered your dwelling; but Jehovah,
who takes care of you, so restrained it in its operation,
that your dear children have escaped with their lives.
May God, who is rich in mercy, sanctify it to the good of
your souls, and make it instrumental in bringing you nearer
to his throne. Our afllictions, my beloved friend, cannot
advance the happiness of our Creator, they must, there-
fore, be intended to excite in our minds a spirit of vigilance :
to wean us from the world, and to elevate our hearts to
more sublime and never-fading joys.
This world, I have long thought, possesses few charms
worthy the attention of beings destined for immortality;
when therefore I see my fellow-creatures so far degrading
their exalted nature, as to remain satisfied with terrestial
pleasures, my heart sickens at the view ; and I would wil-
lingly take them by the hand, and lead them to reflect upon
happiness more durable and unceasing. Can any of us,
who have tasted of the cup of hunmn folly, say that the
draught which we have taken has proved satisfying? On
the contrary, has not experience proved to u?, that after
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 147
the fullest indulgence, there has a void rennained, which
no earthly hliss could fill? And yet so foolish is the natural
man, that disappointments, though repeated ever so often,
cannot drive him from his purpose, nor stop him in his
course. We, therefore, who have tasted of God's grace,
and have our affections elevated to heavenly pursuits, upon
our knees should thank him for his love, and adore him for
his goodness. Let us press on, then, in the pursuit of glory,
and though the proud philosophers of our day should laugh
at our credulity, and charge us with enthusiasm, we will
tell them, "/^e know that if our earthly house of this ta-
bernacle were dissol.ad, we have a building of God, a
house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." Re-
member me most affectionately to Mr. Wilmer and Norris.
In these men your city has a blessing; may God long con-
tinue them among you. Give my sincerest regards to Mrs.
Lee, and all my friends ; particularly to Col. De'N., and
several others whose names I cannot recollect, but whose
amiable manners have attached me strongly to them; and
accept for yourself, and for Judge Washington and family,
the assurance of the most perfect esteem.
Yours,
Richard Channing Moore.
In the month of October, having gone through the pain-
ful scenes connected with the sundering of the ties which
had bound him to St. Stephen's, and the taking leave of
his numerous friends in New York, he removed with his
family to Richmond, and entered upon the occupancy of
the new and wider field which Providence had assigned
him. As the remaining chapters of this biography will be
mainly occupied with a view of the Bishop's operations in
the discharge of the higher functions of his Episcopal of-
148 MEMOIR OF THE
fice, it will be proper to devote the remainder of the pre-
sent one to a brief sketch of him as a parochial minister.
The congregation of the Monumental Church compre-
hended probably a larger amount of intelligence and re-
finement, and a greater proportion of men distinguished for
talent and influence, than any congregation in the Union.
But ditTering as it did, in this respect, from the humbler
flocks to which the Bishop had previously ministered, yet
the polished ease and dignity of his deportment, the amia-
ble and Christian courtesy of his spirit, his fascinating con-
versational powers, his nice sense of the proprieties of life,
the bland benevolence of his manners, and above all, his
rigid adherence to the rules which should govern the civil
intercourse of those belonging to the sacred profession, —
made him perfectly at home in his new sphere; and very
soon, won for him the respect, the confidence, the affection
of the entire community.
Previous to his removal there, the principal families of
Richmond composed a kind of joint spiritual charge, watch-
ed over in common by the Rev. Dr. Buchanan, of the Epis-
copal, and by the Rev. Dr. Blair, of the Presbyterian
Church. These venerable men were not remarkable for
strictness of doctrine or rigour of discipline. They held
their services alternately, at the Capitol, ministering to
nearly the same congregation. Neither of them was ani-
mated by a zeal for proselyting which would be likely to
disturb the peace or interfere with the interests of the
other. And in the promiscuous commingling which exist-
ed, the individual hearers were, no doubt, often at a loss
to decide to which flock they belonged, or which pastor
they were bound to follow. Such a state of things could
not fail to prove perplexing to a clergyman who, though
desirous to maintain a friendlv and afiectionate intercourse
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 149
with Christian people of every name, felt himself restrained
by his ordination vows from indulging liberality at the ex-
pense of prmciple. The opening of the Monumental
Church, however, enabled the new pastor to segregate his
people, and, within its sacred walls, to train Ihem to habits
of attachment to the doctrines, discipline, and worship of
the Church.
The laxity of religious principle and practice which had
so long prevailed among the people, and their unacquain-
tance with those plain exhibitions of truth which are given in
a faithful and uncompromising ministry, might have been a
temptation to some clergymen to hold back the more offen-
sive doctrines of the gospel, and to soften down the asperity
of its precepts, in accommodation to the ignorance and preju-
dices, not to say the corruptions, of their hearers. Such, how-
ever, was not the case with the subject of this memoir. He
knew the tenor of the commission he had received as an am-
bassador of Christ. His embassy was to rebellious men, whom
he was to entreat, in Christ's behalf, to be reconciled to God
The message which he was to deliver was the same which
had been entrusted to him from on high. He saw, in the
congregation before him, a company of sinners alienated
from God, condemned by his law, and exposed to the seve-
rity of his curse. If he failed to say to the wicked, " O
wicked man, thou shalt surely die," and so warn him of his
danger, that he should turn from his wickedness and live ;
that wicked man should die in his iniquity, but his blood
would be required at the pastor's hands. While, there-
fore, he denounced God's wrath against the impenitent, and
assured them that they must repent or perish ; he delight-
ed to announce " the faithful saying and worthy of all ac-
ceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save
fiinners." He knew that the Gospel makes no distinction of
150 MEMOIR OF THE
persons. It proclaims a common salvation to those who are
involved in a common ruin. It teaches the same lesson to
the philosopher and to the simpleton. It demands the same
humiliation of the rich and the poor. It offers salvation upon
the same terms to the moral and the vicious, to the decent
and the vile. And while it declares that " every mouth
must be stopped, and the whole world become guilty before
God ;" it declares no less plainly that Christ " is able to
save unto the uttermost," and that " whosoever cometh unto
him he will in no wise cast out." The Gospel, therefore,
can undergo no change; and admits of no accommodation
of its essential principles to suit the variety of taste and
character in the different congregations to which it is to be
proclaimed. Bishop Moore preached the same gospel to
his intellectual and refined congregation in Richmond, which
he had been accustomed to address to his plainer and more
unsophisticated hearers on Staten Island and in New York.
" By the manifestation of the truth he commended himself
to every man's conscience in the sight of God.'* The gos-
pel of Christ crucified, preached by his lips, proved the
power of God unto salvation. And although the success of
his parochial ministry in the capital of Virginia, was not
equal to that which crowned his earlier labours in other
places, yet his heart was often encouraged by the addition
of new converts to his communion, and the congregation of
the Monumental Church became one of the largest and
most devout in the diocese.
He often, during life, lamented the comparative un-
fruitfulness of his labours there. But since his decease, it
has pleased God to visit that congregation with a season of
" refreshing," as the result of which large numbers have
been added to the company of the faithful. In some of
these, doubtless, we behold the springing up of that seed
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 151
sown during his ministry of many years. While partaking
of the labour and the joy connected with that revival, the
writer could not but indulge the belief that, as the young
man was revived by touching the bones of the Prophet, —
so the signs of spiritual life manifested in the new converts
might, under God, be ascribed to the instrumentality of the
departed Father, who "being dead, yet speaketh" through
Ihem to the living generation. It was delightful to reflect
that the spirit of that loved one was hovering over the scene,
as an interested spectator of its hopes and joys; and was con-
stantly receiving new accessions to its happiness and bliss,
as one after another, his spiritual children gave their
hearts to the Saviour, and consecrated their all to his ser-
vice.
During the whole of his twenty-seven years ministry in
Richmond, he preached the word with fidelity and zeal,
"in season and out of season ;" and might truly have
declared to his people at its close, " ye know, from the first
day that I came, after what manner I have been with
you at all seasons ; serving the Lord with all humility of
mind, and with many tears and temptations ; and how I
kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have
showed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house
to house, — testifying repentance towards God, and faith
towards our Lord Jesus Christ .... Wherefore, I take
you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of
all men; for I have not shunned to declare unto you all the
counsel of God." His zeal and faithfulness in the pulpit,
were equalled only by the tender and aflTectionate assiduity
with which all his parochial duties were discharged. When
the infirmities of advanced years rendered confinement to
study and the preparation of sermons irksome to him, he
acquired the habitof regular, daily visitations to the people
1 53 MEMOIR OF THE
of his charge. He was prompt in repairing to the chambers
of the sick, and to the bed-side of the dying. And being,
from the benevolence of his heart and the tenderness of his
nature, ever ready to weep with those who wept, and to
rejoice with those who rejoiced, he appeared Hke an angel
of mercy, in his proper element amidst scenes of affliction
and was always a welcome visiter to the sorrow-stricken
and bereaved. Never, probably, did a Christian minister,
by his fidelity and love in the discharge of pastoral duties,
establish a stronger claim to the affection and attach-
ment of his people, or enjoy them more fully, than the late
beloved Rector of the Monumental Church.
But it was not his own people alone that loved him. So
free was he from all the asperities of sectarianism and
bigotry ; — so pleasing, condescending, and affable in his
manners; so overflowing with the milk of human kindness
was his heart, and so lustrous with purity and benevolence
was his life — that Christians of every name gloried in him,
as a lovely example of the religion they professed, and
cheerfully yielded to him the \^nrm tribute of veneration
and regard.
A beautiful illustration of this was afforded when on the
first of January 1835, he received as a New Fear's gift, a
splendid copy of the New Testament printed in golden
letters, on porcelain paper, accompaincd with the following
inscription.
"Presented to the Right Rev. R. C. Moore, by the
citizens of Richmond, members of the different religious
denominations, as a tribute of their affectionate regard and
esteem, for one who has so long and so carefully devoted
his life to the great cause of Christianity."
The following is the Bishop's acknowledgment of the
gift:
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOBE. 153
January 5th, 1835,
TO MESSRS. JOHN D. LAY, AND VVM. MITCHELL.
Dear Brethren, — The truly elegant and acceptable copy
of the New Testament presented to me as a new year's
present, by one hundred of my fellow citizens of different
denominations of Christians in this city, has been received:
and I can assure you with great truth, that Ihey could not
have conferred on me any favour which would have so richly
entitled them to my sincere gratitude and thanks. It is,
gentlemen, the charter deed of our salvation ; a deed sealed
with the blood of the precious lamb of God : and it is my
sincere prayer that all the promises of happiness it con-
tains may be realized by those who, in my old age, have
afforded me so great an evidence of their filial affection and
regard. That the present year may prove a happy year,
and abound with heavenly blessings, and temporal comforts
to you, and all the families of the kind donors of the Sacred
Volume, is the fervent prayer, dear brethren, of
Your old friend and fellow citizen,
R. C. Moore.
The cost of the Testament was fifty dollars ; and that
the number of donors might be many, no individual was
allowed to contribute more than fifty cents. In this grate-
ful act of public regard, even some Jews and Romanists
gladly united. It was an act which solaced the Bishop's
mind amid the trials of a sick bed, to which he was then
confined, and afforded him the highest gratification in the
review. The nature of the gift and the feelings by which
it was prompted, imparted to it an inestimable value. Ft
is difficult to say to which the circumstance was most
H
1 54 MEMOIB OF THE
honourable — the recipient of the favour, or the community
by which it was bestowed.
Bishop Moore was so long a resident of Richmond, that
his person was well known to almost all its inhabitants.
He was considered as a kind of Patriarch in the city ; of
whom all were proud, as one of its greatest ornaments.
As he moved to and fro through the streets, on his frequent
visits to the Church, and other errands of devotion and
benevolence, — with his silvery locks floating upon the
breeze, and his devout countenance lifted to the heavens,
his venerable aspect commanded the attention of behold-
ers, and called forth the tokens of homage which uncor-
rupted youth and virtuous manhood ever pay to the hoary
head when found in the way of righteousness. Even child-
hood paused in its sports and suspended its recreations as
he passed, to gaze on him with gladness, as one to be
venerated and loved. The thoughtless and giddy votaries
of mammon or pleasure might sneer at his piety, and scoff
at what they deemed his credulity and superstition ; — yet
as he passed through the busy throng, occupied with re-
flections and pursuits widely different from theirs; — even
they, doubtless, thought, at times, that their condition was
bettered by the kindly warmth of his charity, and that
they were, perhaps, indebted for their preservation to the
influence of his prayers. Even the criminal and vicious, to
whom his principles and life had been a constant reproof,
would deem his removal a common loss; producing a blank
which could not easily be filled. For, the wicked, who
affect to despise the righteous man living, often mourn his
death as a public calamity. Accordingly, when the
Bishop's death was announced, there were few indeed in
that community who did not feel as if they had lost a father
and a friend. Almost the entire population of the city
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 155
joined the funeral procession which followed his remains to
their last resting place, and mingled their tears over his
sepulchre.
The following eloquent extract from the funeral address,
by one who for several years shared with him in the cares
and responsibilities of the pastoral office, will form an ap-
propriate conclusion to this imperfect sketch of Bishop
Moore's parochial ministry in Richmond.
"But it is in his parochial character as rector of the
Monumental Church congregation that he is best known
and most beloved in Richmond. His pastoral labours here
for 27 years have exceedingly endeared him to this congre-
gation. Gentle, am.iable, kind and courteous, with a heart
full to overflowing with benevolence, with a charity which
included in the wide circle of his affection all the lost world
for whom the Redeemer died — always under the influence
of the most kindly feeling for all men and the tenderest
sympathy for the afliicted, he associated with the people
as their spiritual father and guide. He delighted in the
Gospel ; Christ crucified was his constant theme, and he
loved especially to dwell in his preaching on the bright and
cheering topics of Christianity. The mercy of God, the
tender and kind invitations of the Saviour, the soothing
consolations of religion, and its glorious hopes, constituted
the burthen of his preaching, and when set forth with great
animation, the most moving pathos, in an eloquent style of
composition, aided by a delightful voice and fine manner,
gave to his preaching a peculiar charm which all appre-
ciated. He dearly loved the Liturgy of the Church, and
as in its eloquent and holy strains he presented to God the
prayers and praises of his people, he often wept. Love to
God and love to man dwelt in his bosom and pervaded his
conversation and sermons. He could seldom speak of the
156 MEMOIR OF THE
dying love of Christ without tears ; and, like the beloved
Apostle, whom Jesus most loved, and whom he greatly re-
sembled in character, the prevailing sentiment of this aged
Minister of Christ, during his latter years, was " httle chil-
dren, love one another." O ! that his bereaved people may
remember and obey this godly admonition. They all love
him, and well they may; for there are few of the younger
part of them whom he did not receive in those arms now
cold and stiffin death, and at the baptismal font dedicate
them to God's service and admit them into the Church of
Christ, and make them heirs of all the precious promises
of the Christian Covenant. O ! that they may never forget
the obligations then assumed for them, and that they may
not, by failure to comply with the conditions of salvation,
forfeit that rich inheritance, the title to which was then
bestowed upon them. Most of those of his flock who now
mourn his loss, also had their earthly happiness cemented
by him in holy matrimony. The large body of communi-
cants now worshipping in the Monumental Church, were
all, with very few exoe|)tions, admitted to that sacred means
of grace by the imposition of his hands in the Apostolic and
beautiful rite of confirmation. Often have they assembled
around that chancel before which his venerated remains so
lately lay cold in the embrace of death, and seen that much
loved form instinct with life, within their kneeling circle,
and heard that gentle and dear voice, now silent forever,
invite them, in the most affectionate tones, to the spiritual
feast of the Lord, and receive from his hands the emblems
of the crucified body and shed blood of their dying Redeem-
er. Brethren, let the memory of these consecrated scenes
of the communion of saints never fade from your minds,
and never forget the faithful teaching of this godly old man.
Few among you, who so lately followed this beloved pastor
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOKE. 157
to his last resting place on earth, have not been led by him
to that city of the dead where his dust will lie until sum-
moned, on the resurrection morn, by the Archangel's trump,
to a new and eternal life, and have there seen him commit
your loved ones to the grave in the solemn service of your
church, and with the trembling accents of the deepest
sympathy and tenderest love. Remember, also, these
solemn scenes, and O, prepare to follow them to the tomb,
and him to the bliss of Heaven ! He loved social and
friendly intercourse with his people, and all have enjoyed
his sprightly and cheerful conversations, and heard his
fatherly advice and spiritual encouragement around their
firesides.
" Never did the writer, whose opportunities of observation ,
have been constant, during the last five years, know a
minister who equalled Bishop Moore, in the kindness, fre-
quency, and efficacy of his attentions to the sick and afflic-
ted. The gentleness and kindness of his manner, the depth
of his sympathy, the soothing character of his conversation,
his happy and tender mode of presenting the consolations of
the Gospel, all accompanied by prayers of the most appro-
priate character, and of remarkable fervour, rendered this
department of his parochial duties eminently pleasing and
useful. Truly did he love his dear people, as he was wont
to call them : He was the friend of them all. How often
has the writer heard him mourn over those of them who
are impenitent, seen him weep for them ; and heard his
ejaculatory prayers ascend to God on their behalf! How
often has he seen him bear the communicants of his flock
in his heart, and on his lips to the throne of grace, and pray
God to strengthen their faith, and confirm them in all
Christian graces, and in all good works !
" Who can withhold the tribute of admiration for such
n2
158 MEMOIR OF THE LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE.
a character; who would desire a more enviahle lot than his?
Enjoying for fifty-four years the high privilege of declaring
the glad tidings of the Gospel to ransomed sinners — beloved
by all, eminently successful both in his ministry and in his
Episcopate, without enemies, his death has been like his
life, gentle, calm, full of love, and hope, and peace. Let
it be repeated, he had no enemies, for he was just and up-
right in all his dealings, he had a tender regard for the re-
putation and feelings of all, and never spoke evil of any :
and who could cherish aught but love and reverence for
one so full of love to all? The citizens of Richmond loved
to see his venerable form and benevolent face as he walked
the streets. His best eulogium is the love and veneration
of the whole population of Richmond — the tears of the
immense assembly that thronged the Church at his funeral;
yes, of all, old men and matrons, young men and maidens
and children. Who can forget the sobs which were heard
throughout that vast crowd? Who was not impressed by
the unparalleled multitudes which swelled his far-lengthened
funeral procession ?"
CHAPTER V.
From 1814 to 1829.
The views and spirit with which Bishop Moore entered upon the duties
of his Episcopate. Notices of the early success of his labours. An Epis-
copate fund proposed. Formation of Prayer Book and Tract Society.
Rev. Benjamin Allen's labours. Measures taken to promote theological
education in connexion with William and Mary College. Founding
of Theological School, and the Education Society. Brief sketch of the
history of both. Fashionable amusements and lay discipline. View of
Bible Societies, and letters relating to them. His ardent love for the
Liturgy, and desire to have it strictly adhered to in his Diocese. Opposi-
tion to proposed changes in it. Letters on the Liturgy. Baptismal Re-
generation, &c. His views relating to the removals of Clergymen from
one parish to another. Episcopal services in North Carolina. Death of
Rev. Messrs. Norris and Wilmer. Rumours of his wish to retire from
the Diocese. His desire for an Assistant Bishop. Dr. Meade elected,
with an objectionable restriction, which was afterwards removed. Con-
secrated in 1829.
The lovely example of zeal, faithfulness, and success in
pastoral duties, exhibited in the life of Bishop Moore, so
imperfectly sketched in the preceding chapter, was but
a counterpart of the exhibition of the like qualities in
the performance of the higher functions of his Episcopal
oflGice. In addressing ourselves to this part of our work,
which will require, not only a notice of prominent events
in the history of his diocese, but also a view of the prin-
ciples by which he was guided, the policy he adopted, and
the motives which prompted him in the discharge of his
important duties as a Bishop in the Church of God, a wide
field is opened before us; and it will be difficult to confine
160 MEMOIR OF THE
ourselves within the limits allotted to the present memoir ;
but we shall study brevity, so far as it may be consistent
with the faithful performance of the duty of a biographer.
The first Episcopal act performed by Dr. Moore, as
Bishop of Virginia, was the consecration of his newly erected
parish church to the service of Almighty God. This was
soon after his removal to Richmond ; and before the close
of his ministry, the number of Episcopalians had so increased
in that city of his habitation, that he had the pleasure of
setting apart to the same sacred use, two other edifices —
Christ, and St. James' Churches. Though a large portion
of the tirst year of the Bishop's residence in Virginia was
necessarily occupied by the duties of his parochial charge,
yet was he enabled, by the grace of God, to accomplish
much for the welfare of other parishes, and to enter upon
that course of Episcopal visitations which he maintained
ever afterwards with exemplary energy and zeal, till he
was compelled to intermit them, in some measure, by the
visitations of infirmity and disease.
In his address to the Convention of 1815, he reports that
he had visited several of the parishes, confirmed 180 per-
sons, received four candidates for orders, admitted two to
the diaconate, and one to the priesthood, and consecrated
one church besides the Monumental. " The visitations I
have made," says the Bishop, " though very circumscribed,
have enabled me to form some view of the state of our eccle-
siastical concerns, and from that view, I think myself justi-
fied in drawing the most pleasing conclusions. In every
parish which I have visited, I have discovered the most
animated wish in the people to repair the waste places of
our Zion, and to restore the Church of their fathers to its
primitive purity and excellence."
" The apostolic rite of confirmation, which I have ad-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 161
ministered in several parishes, wag received by people of
all ages with the greatest joy, and a general principle of
union and exertion was, upon those occasions, universally
expressed. Parishes which have been destitute of minis-
terial aid for many years, which had slumbered until the
warmest friends of the Church conceived it to have been
the sleep of death, have, in two instances, been awakened
from that state of torpor in which they were involved, and
have arisen in all the vigour of perfect health. The younger
clergy of this diocese, who, from their youth and spiritual
attainments, are well qualified for the glorious work, have
exerted themselves in a manner deserving the most honour-
able mention. They have carried the standard of the
Lord Jesus Christ through a considerable portion of this
Church ; they have gone out into the highways and hedges,
preaching the truths of their divine Master ; and by their
holy conversation with the people, have adorned the Gospel
of Christ. A number of their elder brethren, though pre-
vented by age from using the same exertion, have laboured
with fidelity, and contributed their best efforts to promote
that work which has been entrusted to their hands. The
laity have been equally assiduous in the discharge of that
duty peculiar to their station — the duty of providing for
the ministers of religion. May Heaven reward them for
their labours of love ; and may every cup of cold water
which they have given to a disciple, in the name of a dis-
ciple, receive a disciple's reward."
The address concluded with the following solemn and
earnest appeal: "My brethren of the clergy, — The wel-
fare and advancement of our Zion depend upon our joint
and vigorous exertions. Great is the duty imposed upon
us, and great is the responsibility of that character we fill,
as ministers of the Gospel of peace, if there ever was a
162 MEMOIR OF THE
period in which exertion was necessary ; and if there ever
was a period which bid fair to crown that exertion with
success, this is the time. Though few in number, yet de-
pending for support upon the promises of God, we may look
for an abundant blessing upon our labours. Jehovah has
promised to be with his Church to the end of the world :
and he will fulfil his declaration. The parishes are invo-
king our aid. 0, listen, I beseech you, to their numerous
entreaties ! ' Be steadfast, then : be unmoveable, always
abounding in the work of the Lord, and your labour shall
not be in vain in the Lord.' "
A diocese entering upon its new career under such aus-
pices, having at its head a successor to the apostolic office
animated by the apostolic spirit, seconded by a small band
of clergymen distinguished for zeal and devotion in their
Master's work, countenanced and cheered by the hearty
co-operation of a few intelligent and pious laymen scattered
throughout the parishes ; and above all, relying for success
in the great work of reviving the Church, upon the pro-
mised blessing and presence of its Divine Head, could not
fail to be prospered.
Accordingly, we find the Bishop, in his address to the
Convention of 1816, employing this strong language of con-
gratulation and hope: " It is with the most sincere happi-
ness I inform you, that the Protestant Episcopal Church in
the diocese of Virginia, presents to the view of her friends
a prospect truly encouraging. The clouds of adversity,
which for years have overspread her horizon, appear to be
dispersing, and our Zion, animated by the beams of the Sun
of Righteousness, is recovering from her desolations, exhibit-
ing the most heart-cheering evidences of returning health
and vigour."
During this year, Episcopal visitations were made to the
riFE OF BISHOP MOOHE. 163
northern parts of the diocese, and to the Churches west of
the Blue Ridge, and the apostolic rite of confirmation was
administered to about 750; several vacant parishes were
supplied with devoted ministers, and five were admitted to
holy orders. Twenty parishes, which, at the time of Dr.
Moore's consecration, were destitute, were now reported as
being favoured with the stated services of the sanctuary,
performed either by ordained ministers, or by pious can-
didates for orders, licensed as lay readers.
At the Convention of 1816, an important measure was
proposed, by a most respectable committee of three clergy-
men and three laymen, in relation to the providing of a
permanent support for the Episcopate. '• Our venerable
Bishop," says the Report of the Committee, " has diffused,
through various and remote parts, a portion of that zeal
which animates his labours. But the duties of his paro-
chial charge necessarily limit the sphere of his usefulness.
It appears to us, therefore, necessary, as well in order to
give full effect to his Episcopal ministrations, as to derive
the benefits contemplated by the Convention, that some
mode be devised by which he may be rendered independent
of any parochial charge. By this means every part of the
Church may occasionally enjoy the benefits of the public
ordinances, and of the Episcopal functions; and thus, being
enabled to pervade every part of the diocese, he will have
it in his power to encourage the desponding, to rouse the
thoughtless, to give direction to the zeal and energy of the
pious, and to impress upon the whole system a salutary im-
pulse."
This important proposal, though often renewed and dis-
cussed in subsequent Conventions, was never carried into
full effect. The late Bishop was always earnest in its ad-
vocacy, not with a view to his own ease or emolument,
164 MEHOIR OF THE
(for it was very improbable that he would live long enough
to receive any benefit from the fund,) but to secure the in-
dependence of the office, and the comfort of those who
might be his successors in it. For want of such provision,
he afterwards generously relinquished one thousand or fif-
teen hundred dollars of his salary as Rector, for the sup-
port of an assistant in the Monumental Church, that he
might devote more of his attention to the duties of his
Episcopal charge. The majority of the Convention, per-
suaded that the endowment of the Theological Seminary and
of the High School, was an object of more pressing neces-
sity, believed that the raising of the Episcopal Fund might
safely be deferred till that was accomplished. It is hoped,
however, that the day is not distant, when ample provision
will be made in that wealthy and extensive diocese, for re-
lieving the Bishop from the necessity of assuming a paro-
chial charge, or of depending upon the precarious support
to be derived from the voluntary annual contributions of
the parishes.
At the same Convention a society was instituted for the
distribution of Prayer-Books and Tracts in the Diocese of
Virginia, which still continues in successful operation, and
has proved a valuable auxiliary in the revival and exten-
sion of the Church. The publications of this society have
found their way to many a destitute neighbourhood or so-
litary residence, never reached by the living missionary,
and have there borne silent but effective testimony for
Christ and his Church. The proposer of this institution,
BENJAMm Allepj, Jun., then a lay delegate from St. An-
drew's parish, JetTerson county, deserves a passing notice in
this memoir. A young man of genius, enterprise, and
energy, he had left his native state of New York, and visit-
ed Virginia, it is believed, in pursuit of occupation as a
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 165
teacher of youth. His previous ecclesiastical connex-
ion had been with the Presbyterians, but being con-
vinced of the superior claims of Episcopacy, he became
a candidate for orders in the Church ; and having been
licensed as lay reader, he journeyed on foot, with his bun-
dle upon his back, and commenced his labours in the rich
and beautiful valley lying between the Potomac and the
Shenandoah, west of the Blue Ridge. Charlestown and
Shephardstown were the two principal scenes of his minis-
try; but, with true missionary zeal, he extended his labours
to several destitute places in the vicinity. He remained
there for several years after his ordination, and was the in-
strument, in God's hands, of causing several churches to be
erected and of gathering within their walls large congre-
gations of devout worshippers. Having accomplished this
important work in the diocese of Virginia, he, on the de-
cease of Dr. Pilmore, accepted a call to the rectorship of
St. Paul's Church, Philadelphia. Of his ministry there we
propose not to speak, farther than to say, that he was the
chief agent in the introduction of the late Dr. Bedell to the
scene of his successful ministry, and in the erection of St.
Andrew's Church. All the good which has resulted from the
erection of that church and the successful labours of its
first distinguished rector, should, under God, be ascribed to
the disinterested benevolence and holy zeal of the Rev.
Benjamin Allen. His life affords a memorable example of
the good which may be effected by moderate abilities, sanc-
tified by grace, and under the direction of a heart anima-
ted by the love of God and of souls. Mr. Allen died on
his return voyage from England, whither he had gone for
the benefit of his health, in the year 1828.*
• The writer has been informed, by what he deems good authority, ihat
a coarse of lectures delivered by Mr. A. in Kendall, England, k d to the
166 MEMOIR OF THE
It was clearly perceived, by those who were engaged in
the good work of resuscitating and extending the Church
in Virginia, that a large supply of faithful, devoted, and
well-qualified ministers of the cross was indispensable to
the success of their noble undertaking. And at this early
period, before any Theological Seminary connected with
our Church had been established at the North, incipient
measures were taken in Virginia to provide the means for
the education of candidates for orders in an institution of
its own. The most liberal views were entertained in re-
ference to this important subject, and, so far as we are in-
formed, the diocese of Virginia is entitled to the credit of
taking tlie lead in the cause of theological education in t!ie
Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States. That
some of its members were disposed to enter upon a mea-
sure of such vital interest with pious zeal and comprehen-
sive views, is manifest from the following extract from an
address of the Standing Committee entered upon the Jour-
nalof 1816.
" The Convention of 1815 received a communication from
the President of William and Mary College upon the ex-
pediency of establishing a theological professorship in that
institution. Whether this important object will ever be
accomplished will depend entirely, under the blessing of
God, upon the liberality and zeal of the friends of the
Church in providing for it a suitable fund. For the pre-
sent we submit the subject for consideration, and ask your
aid and advice at our next Convention in organizing a plan
which may embrace a charity so extensive and useful.
establishment of Bible classes by members of the Society of Friends, and
gave the first impulse to the numerous conversions which have taken place
from that Society to the Church within the last few years.
LIFE OF BISUOP MOORE. 167
" When the number and wealth of Episcopalians in Vir-
ginia are considered, we cannot but believe that these seve-
ral objects" (the support of the episcopate and the esta-
blishment for theological education) " will be cherished, and
that our Church, which is behind none in the purity of her
doctrines and the excellence of her forms, will be behind
none in successful efforts towards carrying into effect the
several parts of her religious and literary institutions. And
surely, in the long list of distinguished supporters, a pecu-
liar honour will rest on those who, placed highest in rank
and station, have associated their greatness, and consecra-
ted some portion of their wealth, to such objects ; and who
will perceive that, in rallying round the standard of reli-
gion, they are upholding that which is not only the best
security and guard of social order, but is also the promise
and pledge of a felicity above the warmest conceptions of
the human imagination."
In the foregoing extract we behold the ge7'm of the Theo-
logical Seminary of Virginia. From that period the sub-
ject of theological education was not lost sight of. And this
may be the most appropriate place for presenting a con-
nected view of the progressive steps which resulted in the
establishment of a " school of the pr ophe ts," which proved a
most valuable auxiliary to the depa^^kBishop in securing
the permanent establishment and continued prosperity of
the Church in Virginia.
The Rev. Reuel Keith, a graduate of Middlebury Col-
lege in Vermont, who towards the close of his education
had been baptized and received into the Church by the
present writer, having been ordained deacon by Bishop
Moore, in 1817, commenced his ministerial labours in
Georgetown, D. C. After a successful ministry there of
three years, he was appointed Professor in William and
168 3IEM0IR OF THE
Mary College, and Rector of Bruton Parish, Williamsburg.
In conformity with the proposal made by the authorities of
the college in 1815, the benefits of theological educa-
tion were now ofTered to candidates for orders gratuitously.
The Convention of 1821, impressed with the importance of
making more ample provision for the instruction of candi-
dates for orders, and of retaining for this purpose, within
the State, all such as might be disposed to devote them-
selves to the sacred ministry, resolved to establish a theo-
logical school at Williamsburg : appointed a Board of Trus-
tees for its government, selected an Agent to solicit sub-
scriptions throughout the diocese for its support, and also
directed the Board of Trustees to enter into a correspond-
ence with the Standing Committees of Maryland and North
Carolina, in order to ascertain whether the members of our
Church in those states would co-operate with Virginia in
the support of the institution. The agent met with en-
couraging success in the collection of funds, having received
subscriptions amounting to more than 10,000 dollars. No
answer was received from North Carolina, and that from
Maryland was unfavourable to the location of the school at
W'illiamsburg.
There was, in thi^^vement, no feeling of hostility to the
General Seminarv^^Bch had been previously established
at New Haven, but simply the carrying into effect of a
design entertained several years before. All unfriendliness
and rivalry was disavowed by a resolution of the Conven-
tion. And the founding of the seminary was but the ex-
ercise of a right, which, by general consent, pertained to
every diocese in the Union, which had been previously
exercised by that of New York, and has since been by
those of Ohio and Kentucky.
Acting upon this generally conceded principle, the Mary-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 169
land Convention, in 1822, resolved to establish a theologi-
cal seminary for that diocese, and elected a Board of Trus-
tees. The measure seemed to be received with much fa-
vour by the Cliurch, and as the result of a partial applica-
tion to the parishes, a subscription of several thousand dol-
lars was obtained towards the endowment of the institution.
But a high party excitement was gotten up in opposition
to the measure, as a consequence of which, the Convention
of 1823 resolved to repeal the act of the preceding Con-
vention, and to release the subscribers from their obliga-
tions.
This reverse was a sad trial to the friends of the pro-
posed institution in Maryland. But in this instance, as in
many others, it was manifest that while " man appoints,
God disappoints;" and the Great Head of the Church over-
ruled the disappointment for the welfare of his cause and
the glory of his name. The friends of theological educa-
tion in Maryland and Virginia, who sympathized in their
riews of Christian doctrine and ecclesiastical policy, and
favoured the training up of ministers in the midst of the
people for whose benefit they were to labour, and with
whose character, habits and institutions it was, therefore,
important that they should be acquainted, — thus strangely
prevented from accomplishing their flfly)y separate action,
were enabled to combine their effbrt^TO the promotion of
a common cause, through the medium of " the Education
Society," which was a voluntary association, general in its
character, and governed by a Board of Managers, in which
the members of the Church in the two neighbouring dio-
ceses were equally represented.
That society instituted in 1818, was originally styled the
Education Society of the District of Columbia, afterwards
the Education Society of Maryland and Virginia, and was
o2
170 MEMOIR OF THE
finally so enlarged in the sphere of its operations as proper-
ly to assume the title of " the Society for the Education of
Pious and Indigent Young Men for the Ministry of the Pro-
testant Episcopal Church." This is not the place to speak
at large of its plans and operations. But we may be per-
mitted to state that young men from all parts of the Union
have been numbered among its beneficiaries, and nearly
one-tenth part of the ministers of the Protestant Episcopal
Church in the United States have derived aid from its funds
in the acquirement of their theological training.
While located at Williamsburg, the theological school
was vk^eak and languishing : and the Trustees, in October,
1823, transferred it to Alexandria, D. C, where Professor
Keith soon gathered around him thirteen candidates for or-
ders, and received efficient aid in his important work by
the voluntary services of the Rev. Dr. Wilmer, in the de-
partment of Systematic Divinity, and of the Rev. Oliver
Norris, in that of Pastoral Theology. The churchmen of
Maryland, highly approving of the new location of the
Seminary, resolved to give it their cordial support and co-
operation through the medium of the Education Society.
A large proportion of the subscribers to the Maryland
Seminary cheerfully transferred their subscriptions to the
Society. By this n|Akis the managers were enabled to en-
large the number of their beneficiaries ; and when it was
resolved to purchase a farm and transfer the Seminary to
its present beautiful site, they loaned money to aid in the
erection of buildings, and pledged themselves for the sup-
port of an additional professorship. Thus, without any con-
flict or jealousy between the two dillerent Boards, the great
work of theological education in which they jointly and
harmoniously co-operate, has been more successfully prose-
cuted than it could have been if (he plans originally
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 171
adopted had been carried into effect without opposition and
without disappointment, by the respective parties.
Ever since the removal of the Seminary to its present
location, about three miles from Alexandria, in lS27,it has
gone on increasing in popularity and usefulness; enjoying
the favour of the Church and the blessing of God. Upon
its farm of seventy acres there is erected a central build-
ing, containing library, refectory, and recitation rooms,
with two wings for the accommodation of the students : a
chapel, and three houses for the professors and their families.
The beneficial influence of this school of the prophets has
by no means been confined to the diocese in which it is
located. Its Alumni are found scattered through different
and distant states ; and so successfully has the spirit of mis-
sions been cultivated there through the medium of its
"Society of Inquiry," &.c. that of the eleven foreign missiona-
ries of our Church, seven, — and of those in heathen lands,
all, — were prepared for their work at the Virginia Semi-
nary.
Bishop Moore felt a warm interest in this favourite insti-
tution of his Diocese. At its annual examinations he uni-
formly attended, and was deeply solicitous that all who
received its honours should be scribes well-instructed in the
kingdom of God, " workmen that peed not be ashamed,
rightly dividing the word of truth." And, as the classes
of its Alumni, one after another, received, through the im-
position of his hands, authority to minister in holy things,
his heart glowed with gratitude to Almighty God that his
diocese was favoured with such a nursery of faithful minis-
ters of Christ. He was not taken to his rest till this valuable
institution was placed upon a stable foundation. He saw
it, from small beginnings, under the care of able and skil-
ful professors, rapidly advancing to eminence and useful-
172
MEMOIR OF THE
ness; and every friend of the Church should pray that its
progress may continue to be onward, now that the hoary
head of the first President of its Board of Trustees is laid
low in the dust.
While the Bishop and his associates were prompt and
energetic in the adoption and prosecution of measures which
would increase the number of the clergy, and meet the
growing demand for the enlargement and extension of the
Church, they displayed no less wisdom and energy in pro-
viding for \i?, purity, and were mainly anxious that the ex-
ercise of apostolic discipline i\\o\x\d. preserve the conquests
which might, from time to time, be achieved by the autho-
rized preachers of apostolic doctrine. Not only were
canons adopted to guard the ministry against the intru-
sion of unqualified men, and to purge it from the disgrace
which might be brought upon it by the misconduct of the
unworthy holders of a divine commission, but measures
were also taken to keep the laity faithful to their Chris-
tian profession, and induce all who " named the name of
Christ to depart from iniquity."
A looseness of discipline had so long prevailed in the
Church of Virginia, that it was a work of great difliculty
for those who preached the doctrines of salvation to illy
instructed congregations, to induce them to adopt the rigid
discipline of a godly life. Many of the communicants had
been accustomed freely to mingle with others in the ordi-
nary gayeties and pleasure of fashionable life. The truly
pious, among both clergy and laity, grieved over this state
of things as highly injurious to the interests of the Church,
and were exceedingly desirous that none should be admitted
to the holy communion who would not renounce all those
indulgences and pleasures which are inconsistent with the
Christian profession, and which are virtually abjured in
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 173
the baptismal vow, to " renounce the pomps and vanities of
this wicked world." In this right feeling the Bishop warm-
ly participated ; and notwithstanding his strong reluctance
to adopt any measures which might be deemed censurably
rigorous or compulsory, he was desirous to adopt every
lawful means, not deemed by him inconsistent with charity
and prudence, for clearing the Church of the reproach
brought upon her by the inconsistent lives and worldly con-
formity of some who approached her altars. His views, in
reference to this delicate and difficult point, are expressed
in the following letter to a friend :
Richmond, Oct. 23, 1817.
Dear Sir, — The information you have received, relative
to a correspondence between Mr. Jefferson and myself, is
without foundation, would to God ! that his mind was
favourably impressed towards Christianity, and that by
some magnanimous effort, he would restore to the religion
of our fathers, the many who have been led into skepti-
cism, through the influence of his opinions. A lady assured
me a few days since that he is a Socinian; and from some
things which have met my eye, I take it for granted her
report is true. I cordially concur with you in your views
of Church discipline, and am fully of opinion, that we may
with equal propriety attempt to serve God and mammon,
as to reconcile an indulgence in fashionable amusements,
with the divine life; but the remedy, the remedy — how is it
to be applied 1 In this city, much as I wish to check the
evil, I confess myself at a loss how to proceed. A tender
father will use every persuasion with a disobedient child,
and will bear long with his perverseness, before he will
turn him out of doors. His affection for his children,
makes him tremble at the effects which austerity might
174 MEMOIR OF THE
produce. He is afraid that an expulsion from his society
would give rise to a reaction dreadful in its tendency, and
expose his offspring to evils incalculably great ! A minis-
ter of the Gospel is enjoined to instruct with meekness,
those who oppose themselves : and it is his duty, " knowin g
the terrors of the Lord, to persuade men." Although he is
bound to be thus prudent, he is equally obliged to guard
the altar; to inspect the conduct of his members; and to see
that none of them bring a reproach upon the cross of
Christ. In New York, the relinquishment of balls, the
theatre and card table, formed the "sine qua non" of
admission to the communion in my Church : but whether
the temper of my present flock would submit to the same
rule of conduct, God only knows. I am apprehensive it
would produce a commotion overwhelming in its effects,
and desolating to our interests. Were there a few lay-
men of distinction in this place who would sanction the at-
tempt, and enforce it with their influence, perhaps it might
succeed : but in all my conversations upon the subject, with
some truly excellent men belonging to my Church, they
express the greatest apprehension, and I do not know at
present of any who would uphold me in the conflict. I
hope you will continue to reflect upon the subject; it is,
indeed, of great moment, and merits the most pious and
serious consideration. I have just returned from a long tour
through the western part of the diocese, and shall leave
Richmond in a few days to explore the counties between
York and Rappahannock rivers. I would wish some plan
devised for the support of two or more missionaries; the
money might be raised either by subscription, or by sermons
in our Churches. Present me very respectfully and affec-
tionately to Mrs. and
Believe me, your sincere friend and pastor,
Richard Channing Moore.
LIFE OP BISHOP MOORE. 175
P. S. Do attend our next Convention, and let us en-
deavour to ascertain how far discipline may be exercised
with prudence. I could wish you to bring the question be-
fore the Standing Committee, in order to know their opinion.
In conformity with the suggestions of the foregoing letter,
the subject was presented to the consideration of the Con-
vention in 1818. A warm and animated discussion ensued,
and after various attempts to evade a decision of the ques-
tion, and others to procure the expression of an opinion
that would have led to no good practical result, the follow-
ing resolution was adopted by a unanimous vote of the
clergy, and by a very large majority of the laity.
" Whereas, differences of opinion prevail as to certain
fashionable amusements, and it appears desirable to many
that the sense of the Convention should be expressed con-
cerning them; the Convention does hereby declare its opin-
ion, that gaming, attending on theatres, public balls, and
horse-racing, should be relinquished by all communicants of
this Church, as having the bad effects of staining the purity
of the Christian character, of giving offence to their pious
brethren, and of endangering their own salvation, by their
rushing voluntarily into those temptations against which
they implore the protection of their Heavenly Father; and
this Convention cherishes the hope, that this expression of
its opinion will be sufficient to produce conformity of con-
duct, and unanimity of opinion among all the members of
our communion."
This mild but firm resolve met with the very general ap-^
probation of those whom it concerned. It is believed that,
since its adoption, the clergy have found little difficulty in
maintaining salutary discipline in their respective congre-
gations ; and the Church in Virginia now presents a body
176 MEMOIR OF THE
of communicants as exemplary for non-conformity to the
world, and for zealous devotion to the cause of God, as can
be found in any other diocese.
The formation of the American Bible Society, in the
year 1816, called forth a Pastoral Letter from Bishop Ho-
bart, of New York, reiterating the sentiments advanced
by Bishop Marsh, and others, in England, and advising
Episcopalians not to give it their patronage and support ;
chiefly on the ground that a union with other denominations
of Christians, even for so simple and praiseworthy an object
as that of distributing the word of God without note or
comment, was a virtual recognition of their defective eccle-
siastical organizations, and dangerous to our distinctive
principles as Churchmen. The Pastoral Letter opened a
discussion, which was conducted with ability on both sides,
and excited a very general interest throughout the Church.
Of the merits of the controversy it is not our design to speak.
While we would give to both parties the credit of sincerity,
we would recommend to the members of each, the exercise
of mutual forbearance and charity. It is one of those nice
questions of casuistry about which good men may con-
scientiously diiTer, but which should never be allowed to
produce alienation of feehng among members of the same
household, who acknowledge " one Lord, one faith, one
baptism."
"^ With a full knowledge of the arguments and objections
urged against Bible Societies, Bishop Moore readily accept-
ed the office of President in the Virginia Bible Society, in-
stituted in August, 1S16, as the venerable Bishop White
had previously done in that of Philadelphia. Both con-
tinued to hold their offices, and give to the Bible Society
cause their cordial support, till death closed their earthly
labours.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 177
The following letters, which themselves sufficiently ex-
plain the occasion of their being written, will be of interest
to the reader in this connexion.
LETTER UPON THE SUBJECT OF BIBLE SOCIETIES.
March 16th, 1825. Jf;
Rt. Rev. and Dear Sir, — I have suffered, during the last
twelvennonth, exceedingly, with an affection of my head.
It has not, indeed, been painful, notwithstanding which, it
has deprived me of all comfort, been injurious to my me-
mory, depressed my spirits, and at times rendered it diffi-
cult for me to walk through my parish. It is, thank God,
less afflicting than it has been. I entertain a hope that I
shall be so far relieved as to be enabled to discharge my
duties with that satisfaction 1 formerly enjoyed. I have
noticed some of the difficulties with which you have had to
contend, and judging of your feelings by my own, I have taken
it for granted that the controversy must have interfered
with your comfort and peace of mind. In all those matters
in which the principles of the Church are concerned, our
sentiments generally harmonize, but in the case of Bible
Societies, we certainly differ. Of this fact you must be
sensible, as I have long been a member of that institution
in Virginia. You cannot, therefore, be offended with me
in expressing the sorrow I felt at the discovery of those
sentiments advanced by you in your late discourse at
Raleigh. The opposition to the Church is so great, and
the prejudice against Bishops so strong, I am afraid your
discourse will not be read with that indulgence it merits,
and that the public will charge us with a wish to keep the
people in ignorance, and as representing the Sacred Volume
p
178 • MEMOIR OF THE
as a book so completely sealed, as to deprive it of its cha-
racter as a revelation from heaven. I think I have heard
you remark, that the order of clergy is so plainly expressed
in the Gospels, and in the Epistles of Paul, as to preclude
the necessity of any other information on the subject; and
that whoever will read without prejudice, must be satisfied
that our views of Episcopacy are correct. Such is my
opinion of the strength of those proofs to be adduced from
those sources, that I entertain no particular alarm from a
general diffusion of the Scriptures, and consider it my duty
to promote as general a circulation of the Bible as possible.
Could a Prayer Book accompany every volume of the
Sacred Writings, I should be rejoiced; but as that was
not the case when the Scriptures were first given to the
world, I cannot see the propriety, at the present day, of
making it the condition of their dissemination. In the
Family Visiter, to which paper you are, I believe, a sub-
scriber, a proposition was made, a few weeks since, of fur-
nishing the public with a history of the Church. Sensible
of the character which that history would sustain, I ad-
dressed a piece to the Editor, under the signature of Senex,
disapproving of the plan, and expressing my fears as to the
result. Though they declared their resolutions to proceed,
still I perceived in the paper of last Saturday, that they
have thought it prudent to omit several sections contained
in the former plan, assigning as a reason, the stress laid by
some Christians on their views of Church government. I
think that I perceive a general disposition in all other so-
cieties to unite against us. The principle of Episcopacy
is so painful to their minds, that they cannot cordially love
us, and would, no doubt, do us hurt : provided it was in
their power. In this State, where the Church, compared
with them, is comparatively weak, I know of no weapon
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 179
SO effectual as prudence; especially as there is some diffe-
rence of opinion on the subject among ourselves.
With love to Mrs. R.,
Believe me your sincere friend and brother,
R. C. MoORE.
Bishop Ravenscroft.
THE rev. W. F. lee.
April 2nd, 1S33.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — Being a sincere friend to the dis-
semination of the Sacred Scriptures, and sensible that age
has deprived me of that efficiency in the discharge of duty
which I once possessed, I have thought proper to return the
clergy, and members of the Bible Society of Virginia, my
sincere thanks for the honour they have for many years
conferred on me, in electing me as their President, and to
express my disposition to give place to the appointment of
a younger man to fill that responsible ofiice. I must also
request you, Rev. Sir, to assure the Society, that I shall
always derive the greatest enjoyment in the prosperity of
the Bible cause: and that no effort in my power shall be
wanting in the promotion of the glorious work in which
they are engaged. For the space of nineteen years, my
name has been enrolled on the list of its members; during
which time, (it gives me pleasure to say,) we have been of
one mind, and one heart. No discordant views have ever
interrupted our harmony. We have prosecuted our mea-
sures with a unanimity of Christian sentiment and feeling,
supplicating the Almighty for his blessing on our exertions'
the God of love and peace, whose favour we implored, has
crowned our labours with success.
Accept, dear sir, the assurances of regard,
And believe me, &c.
R. C. Moore.
180 MEMOIR OF THE
ANSWER TO AN INVITATION TO ATTEND THE MEETING OF THE
BIBLE SOCIETY IN NEW YORK.
February 9th, 1825.
Dear Sir, — I have received your communication invi-
ting me to attend the meeting of the Bible Society in New
York; but as the Convention of the Episcopal Church will
assemble in this place in the month of May, it will not be
in my power to visit your city at the time specified in your
letter. To forward and promote the circulation of the
Holy Scriptures is my sincere wish ; and to carry that wish
into efifect, I have repeatedly exerted the best energies of
my mind. The Bible is the word of God — a revelation
intended for the benefit of every memher of the human
family; of course, every means that can be adopted to
render its circulation general, must be in accordance with
the Divine will. Such, I presume, is the opinion of all
Protestants; and though men may ditler conscientiously
as to the mode in which it should be done, still, I charitably
believe, that there is not a Christian belonging to our
ranks, who does not wish well to the widest spread of
divine truth.
Accept my best wishes for the prosperity of the Bible
cause, and with my compliments to your worthy Presi-
dent, and other ofticers of the institution,
Believe me your friend and obedient servant,
Richard Channing Moore.
The attachment of Bishop Moore to the peculiar doc-
trines and institutions of his own Church, ardent and sin-
cere though it was, as it did not restrain him from co-
operating with Christians of other communions in works of
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 181
benevolence and pietv, which involved no sacrifice of prin-
ciple, SO neither did it prevent him from cherishing towards
them every feeling of kindliness, and interchanging the
tender offices of love. In the following extract from one
of his conventional addresses, we recognize the overflow-
ing of a truly Catholic heart, wishing "grace, mercy^ and
peace, to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity :"
" To promote the cause of genuine religion is our only ob-
ject; and as that object is legitimate, it must succeed. We
know of no enemies but the enemies of our own exalted
Redeemer ; we stretch forth the right hand of fellowship
to all who, in sincerity, call upon the Lord Jesus Christ;
we expect to meet in heaven with Christians of all deno-
minations; and while we labour in our department, we
wish prosperity to all the Saviour's friends. Yes, brethren,
in heaven, distinctions will be done away ; we shall
then be embodied under one name — ' the spirits of the
just made perfect;' and in joyful union, we will unite
with them and angels in singing unto Him who loved
us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood ; unto
Jesus, the exalted, precious Jesus, be all honour and glory
ascribed, forever and ever. Amen."*
There are some minds so strangely constituted as to be
incapacitated for " holdiiig the truth in love.''^ They
seem to suppose that an attachment to the distinctive prin-
ciples of the Church must prove itself genuine by the in-
dulging of an acerbity of temper towards all who do not
embrace them, by uttering the most bitter reproaches
against the advocates of different principles, and by keep-
ing ourselves entirely aloof from all intercourse with those
who are not of our communion. How wide the contrast
* Journal of Convention, ISIS.
p2
182 3IEM0IU OF THE
between their course and that of the venerated subject of
this memoir ! Which of them bears the closest resemblance
to the example of that meek and loving Master who dealt
tenderly with the unbelieving and persecuting Pharisees;
and who, when some of his own disciples would imprecate
fire from heaven upon a village of heretical Samaritans,
said — " ye know not what spirit ye are of?"
To infer from the fact of Bishop Moore's attachment to
Bible Societies, and his charitable feelings towards Chris-
tians of every name, that his attachment to the doctrines
of the Church was feeble, and that he had no strong aver-
sion to schism : or to infer from his love of associations,
lecture-room services, and prayer meetings, that he did not
properly appreciate the venerable Liturgy, and fixed wor-
ship, and decent ceremonies of the Church, would be an
act of the grossest injustice to his character. Baptized and
confirmed at her altars, trained up from earliest infancy to
walk in her hallowed ways> he had derived all his spiritual
nutriment from her bosom: and finding in her services, doc-
trines, and sacraments, all that he needed for the support,
growth, and comfort of his inner man, he was ever distin-
guished by his firm and undeviating adherence to the
Church, as " the house of the living God, the pillar and
ground of the truth."
So ardent was his attachment to the Liturgy in its in-
egrity — so opposed was he to any measure which might
disturb the fair beauty and harmony of its proportions,
that when in the General Convention of 182G, a proposal,
not for a change in the Prayer Book, but for the allowance
of discretion in the use of certain parts of the service, intro-
duced by Bishop Hobart, was concurred in by the majority
of both houses as expedient and desirable ; he was decidedly
opposed to the measure as one of dangerous tendency, and
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 183
expressed his views in the following strong language at the
next meeting of his Diocesan Convention.
"The Secretary, brethren, will produce to the Conven-
tion a letter from the Secretary of the General Convention,
on the subject of certain proposed alterations in the Liturgy
of the Church. It is my duty to mention, not only to the
members of this Convention, but also to the members of the
Church throughout the Diocese of Virginia, the fears with
which my mind is impressed on this important subject. The
Church has hitherto prospered in the use of the Liturgy as
it has been handed down to us by our fathers. That uni-
formity of worship which has distinguished us as a society,
should the proposed alterations be carried into effect, would
be destroyed. Instead of uniting in the same devotional
exercises as we hitherto have done, every clergyman will
have it in his power to select his own lessons, and to read
such portions of the Psalms of David as he pleases, by which
means the public worship of God in these particulars, will
be as various as the constitutions of our minds. The old
members of the Church, who have been taught to view the
Liturgy through a medium the most sacred, will be grieved.
The guards to uniformity being once removed, one inno-
vation will succeed another, until the people will lose that
reverence for our incomparable services by which they
have been actuated, and the Church receive the most vital
injury.
"When we reflect upon the general esteem in which the
Liturgy is viewed by the reflecting and considerate of other
denominations, our opinion of its excellence should be
strengthened and increased. The celebrated Dr. Clarke,
of the Methodist Society, has declared that the Liturgy of
the Church is second to no volume except the sacred wri-
tings ; and the Rev. Robert Hall, of the Baptist Society
^ ^f /^'
184 " MEMOIR OF THE
has expressed himself in similar language. To touch a
matter of so much consequence without the deepest reflec-
tion — to alter a service of such acknowledged worth with-
out years of prayerful consideration, should not be ventured
on. When we enter the threshold of this inquiry, we
should take the shoes from off our feet, as the ground
whereon we tread is holy ground. The Church io Virginia
will never be induced, I trust and pray, to depart from her
prescribed forms; but will defend the Liturgy in all its in-
tegrity, and prove to the Christian world that we revei'ence
the opinions of our fathers, and are satisfied with that system
of doctrine which they venerated, and which they so high-
ly valued." The same jealousy which the Bishop manifest-
ed in reference to any attempts to efTect alterations in the
service by means of legislation, prompted him to reprove
any unauthorized departure from a rubrical use of it re-
sulting from individual caprice or thoughtlessness. Was
there at one period a desire on the part of some few of the
clergy of Virginia to deviate from the prescriptions of the
rubrics by mutilating or abridging the public worship of the
Church ! The censurable practice was at once rebuked
with all the calmness and gentleness so becoming in a
father of the Church. We find the following in his address
to the Convention of 1825.
" To remedy some difficulties, brethren, which have pre-
sented themselves to view, I conceive it a duty incumbent
on me at this time, to ofier a few observations on the sub-
ject of an obedience to the rubrics of the Church ; and
as the clergy cannot charge me with unkindness in my in-
tercourse with them, I trust my remarks will be received
in the same spirit of conciliation with which they \\\\\ be
ofTered, and not charged to a spirit of improper domina-
tion. The Church of which we are members has always
LIFE OF BISHOP BIOORE. 185
felicitated herself upon the possession of a liturgy, combi-
ning with the soundest sense the purest and most sublimated
devotion, a liturgy which has commanded the respect and
admiration of some of the greatest and most enlightened
men who have lived since the Reformation. To enable
the clergy to conduct the devotions of the people in per-
fect uniformity, rubrics have been attached to all the of-
fices of religion, a compliance with which is required of
every minister prior to his ordination.
" Although the services of the Church have been thus
guarded, still it has sometimes happened that a departure
from the liturgy has taken place, and the beauty of our
incomparable form of worship been, in some measure, de-
stroyed.
"When an individual, instructed in the peculiarities of our
services, is engaged in the duties of the sanctuary, he can
follow, with indescribable pleasure, the officiating clergy-
man in the regular exercise of his office ; he is always pre-
pared to unite in the prayers, and to worship the Lord in
the beauty of holiness, without the least distraction of mind.
But when it so happens that the clergyman is inattentive
to the rubrics, the devotional exercises of the worshipper
are obstructed : his mind, instead of being preserved calm
and serene, becomes perplexed, and his religious feelings
changed into those of disappointment, if not of displeasure.
I indulge the hope, brethren, that in those instances in
which the aberrations alluded to have been practised,
they have arisen more from inconsideration than design ;
and that it is only necessary to mention the evil to have it
remedied."
It is gratifying to state that these sound views were well
received, and cordially responded to by the Convention, in
the adoption of the following resolution: — Resolved, That
186 MEMOIR OF THE
the Convention heartily concurs with the Bishop in recom-
mending to the ministers a punctual observance of the
same," [viz. the rubrics] " warning them of the danger of
yielding to the prejudices supposed to exist against the
Liturgy, either in the breasts of the irreligious, or of those
who may be present at our Churches, who are accustomed
to other services: and particularly would they urge it upon
the ministers and parents to train up the younger mem-
bers of the Church in the use of the Prayer Book, as the
best means of ensuring a regular and edifying use of the
Liturgy, and would also recommend it to the ministers oc-
casionally to expatiate on the excellencies and advantages
of our incomparable service. At the same time, the Con-
vention feels bound, in duty to the Church of Virginia, to
state, that but few instances of departure have occurred,
and, also, that there is a growing attachment to the ser-
vices of the Church throughout the diocese."
The following letters bear testimony that the same prin-
ciples which the Bishop advocated in his public official acts,
also governed him in his private intercourse with the clergy
and other members of the Church.
A LETTER TO ONE OF HIS CLERGY ON THE LITURGY.
November 4lh, 1822.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — There can be no difficulty in
managing the affairs of the Church, provided every member
will confine himself within the bounds prescribed by the
Canons ; and yield due obedience to those rules which
have been established by the proper authority. Your let-
ter of the 22nd of October, breathed such a disposition
throughout; and convinces me that I may always lean
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 187
upon your arm for support, in the discharge of every legiti-
mate act of Episcopal duty. The directions which I gave
Mr. , relative to the Church in , were grounded
upon the letter of the canon ; and, as I thought that por-
tion of the diocese most worthy of attention, 1 took it for
granted he would have governed himself accordingly. The
promises which he had made at his ordination, justified the
expectation I had formed of his obedience, and satisfied
my mind that he would have yielded to my wishes. The
want of conformity to my directions, you assure me in your
communication, proceeded from misconception, and not from
intention, I should therefore be more than unkind, were I
to withhold from him any good offices in my power to be-
stow.
It cannot, in the nature of things, be long before I shall
be obliged to resign my office to some more active and
efficient man. Who that man will be, Heaven only knows;
but as order and conformity to principle are necessary, not
only to secure the happiness of my successor, but to pro-
mote the interests of the Church, it becomes the duty of all
who wish well to our Zion, to guard well her bulwarks,
and to see that no man overleaps his proper boundaries.
My successor may not possess that accommodating dis-
position, by which I have always been influenced. An op-
position to lawful authority may be viewed by him, not
as mistake, but design. And in such circumstances, he
would think himself justified in acting upon the principle
of canon law; and in enforcing that law, would produce
disorder and confusion. To prevent such a state of things
is every good man's duty ; and as attention to order will
certainly eflfect it, no man who loves the peace of the
Church, can object against conformity to principle. Our
laws have been enacted by ourselves ; and when we pro-
188 MEMOIR OF THE
mise to obey them, we should honestly strive to carry our
promises into effect. Tyranny, in either Church or state,
I abhor from my heart; but as confusion, and a want of
order would be equally prejudicial, we should guard against
too much laxity, with as much jealousy, as against too
much power. T cannot see how the Church can be secured
from tumult, unless a strict compliance with principle is
preserved ; and unless we are attentive to little things, we
shall at last act as if there were no rules to be observed.
There may be some particular points relative to order,
discipline, and worship, which all do not approve; but as
long as those points exist, no individual possesses the right
to violate them. If the contrary principle should be advo-
cated, then every man would follow the dictates of his pri-
vate judgment, and all order, both in doctrine, discipline,
and worship, be at an end. To return to the concerns of
J\lr. , you observe that ' it will be very desirable to
him to know the course T would wish him to pursue.' In an-
swer I have only to state, that I would wish him to pursue
that path, which you may think most desirable ; and, pro-
vided he adheres to the principles of tiie Church, during
his continuance in deacon's orders, I shall think it my duty
to admit him to the Priesthood, when authorised to do so
by the Standing Committee. I would advise him to read
all the canons with attention, as I shall, in all probability,
examine him upon that subject.
Believe me.
Your sincere friend,
Richard Chanm.vg Moore.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 189
ON THE USE OF THE LITURGY.
November 18th, 1822.
Dear Sir, — I have written this day to Mr. , upon
the subject of his settlement in , offering him my
counsel, and enjoining it upon him to conform, in the dis-
charge of his duties, to the doctrine, worship, and discipline
of the Church. Our excellent services cannot be too stea-
dily adhered to, and should he depart from our long esta-
blished usages, the cause of the Church begun in your
neighbourhood, under your auspices, would be much injured.
The Dissenters are unwilling to concede anything to us, and
should we ask them to use our Prayer-book in their assem-
blies, they would soon evince their consistency by a refusal,
why therefore should we, in order to please them, lay by
our peculiarities, and conform to their views. I have re-
quested Mr. to make you his friend and counsellor,
fearing, from his youth and inexperience, that, should at-
tempts be made to lead him astray, he might be disposed
to yield. The Church in your part of the country will de-
rive its character from the proceedings of your minister,
and congregation ; it is, therefore, doubly necessary that its
distinctive features should be so exhibited that the people
may become acquainted with all its usages. It will rest
much with you, my dear sir, to assist in the preservation of
order, and you will very much oblige me, by affording Mr.
that counsel and assistance, which, as a young man,
he must require.
Believe me, Sir,
Yours, &c., &.C.
Richard Channing Moore.
190 MEMOIE OF THE
June 2n(l, 1823.
Rev. and dear Sir, — The frankness of character which
ntiarks your very acceptable favour of the 29th ult.>
obliges me to conclude, that any advice I may propose rela-
tive to the discharge of your duties in , grounded upon
the Canons and rubrics of the Church, will receive every
proper attention, and will be listened to with the same
affection with which it will be offered. My habits of
mind are such as will convince you, upon an acquaint-
ance with me, that an improper interference will never be
attempted, and that the object I have in view is the pros-
perity of the interests of religion and the Church, and the
happiness of all the clergy belonging to the diocese. A
departure from our usages may be pleasing to those unac-
quainted with our peculiarities, and the solemn obligations
nto which we enter at our ordination ; but that departure,
I am well convinced, will tend to injure the cause we have
engaged to promote, and will ultimately destroy our peace,
and usefulness. In a parish of such prominent importance
as that over which you are placed, it would be my wish
that the services peculiar to our communion should be re-
gularly and canonically performed: and that the Church
should be exhibited to the view of the people in all her na-
tive beauty, without the least aberration whatever from
the rubric. Prior to our ordination we promise that we
will conform to the doctrines and worship of the Church ;
I cannot, therefore, believe that any of our parishioners
who know the importance of a written assurance, would
wish us, after being informed of the nature of our engage-
pients, to violate a declaration freely made at such a solemn
I,IFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 191
period of our lives. What assurance, I would ask, can our
vestries have in our integrity, other than that they derive
from our promises of fidelity ? If they see us violate our
ordination vows, will that violation exalt us in their estima-
tion ? Will it not raise in their minds a suspicion that
other promises, into which we may enter with them, will
prove equally devoid of certainty ? The Church boasts
of her uniformity. We derive a pleasure from re-
flecting, that, upon the same days, and at the same pe-
riod, all the members of our communion, throughout the
continent, are using the same prayers, and listening to the
same portions of the Scriptures. If, in one place, either by
the wish of the people or the fancy of the minister, such
and such prayers are omitted, such and such lessons are
changed for others, and the decalogue overlooked, where
will be our pretensions to uniformity '? Instead of things
being in order, the harmony of our worship will be destroy-
ed, and our whole incomparable system be changed into a
chaos. I do not say that circumstances may not some-
times prove so imperious as to justify a little departure from
our excellent forms. In country places, where the people
have travelled through the cold, and are destitute of such
accommodations as those with which you and myself are
furnished, a clergyman might plead necessity for his con-
duct : a plea which would be entitled to great consideration.
(A clergyman may also be indisposed, and unable to comply,
and, of course, would be justifiable in the omission of some
things.) But in a city, where our churches are at our doors,
and where those churches are warm and comfortable, I am
obliged to conclude, without a breach of charity, that the
hearts of the people must be very cold, prayer a great bur-
den, and the Scriptures of God too lightly esteemed, if they
should consider our incomparable Liturgy too long, or our
192 ME3I0IR OF THE
excellent services fatiguing. Whatever parish I enter, I
feel it my duty to perform the whole service and to com-
ply with all our usages. If the people are unaccustomed
to the Liturgy, and to those priestly garments, consecrated
by long use, they consider me an innovator ; a charge by
no means agreeable to my mind. The clergyman, to jus-
tify himself for his wanderings, is under the painful neces-
sity of censuring his Bishop for doing his duty, or is
obliged to make apologies to his people for omissions, which,
to say the least of them, were improper. I wish things to
be so conducted throughout the diocese, that, when a mem-
ber of one parish visits another, he may feel perfectly at
home ; and not have his mind disturbed either with omis-
sions or additions. I know, if I were engaged as a piivate
worshipper in the services of the Church, the devotional
feelings of my heart would be distressed to perceive the
officiating minister violating order ; and thus depriving me of
a service to which I have a legitimate claim, and which he is
bound to perform. My devotion would suffer injury, and
that injury would be chargeable to the man, who, by his
eccentric movement, should occasion my distress. I, there-
fore, must entreat you, and ask it at your hands, and at the
hands of your vestry, as a particular favour, that you will
attend tothe rubrics, without the least deviation, and appear,
in the discharge of your public duties, clothed in those sacred
vestments, the use of which has been sanctioned by ages,
and by men (in whose footsteps we may be proud to
tread) first in the ranks of piety and learning. From the
knowledge I have of your people, I am certain that an at-
tention to these things will be pleasing to them. Many of
them have told me so ; and I do not know that there is an
individual among them who would refuse his sanction to the
measure.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 193
This letter has been written in reply to your respectful
and affectionate communication. The sentiments it breathes
are in unison with the rubrics and usages of the Church ;
and they are such as will promote the interests of your
parish ; and a compliance with which, I should presume,
would contribute to your mental quiet, and add a lustre to
your character as a priest of the Protestant Episcopal
Church.
Your sincere friend and father in Christ Jesus,
R. C. MooRE.
P. S. As there is no canon enjoining the wearing of the
surplice, you will, of course, use your best discretion in the
case. But as white is an emblem of purity — as it cannot
be charged with being a tawdry vestment ; and as the con-
gregation were, until lately, accustomed to it, I hope there
will be no objections made to its use.
June 4th, 1823.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — Difficulties and discouraging cir-
cumstances in the discharge of our public duties are by no
means peculiar to yourself. We all meet with them at
times, and find them burdensome and oppressive. I am
frequently placed in situations in which my judgment and
experience appear insufficient to direct me. Untoward
circumstances present themselves when I least expect their
approach, leaving me no alternative but to listen to the
plain suggestions of duty, and to commit events and con-
sequences to my Heavenly Father.
I believe, that, in all cases, duty should form the first con-
sideration. Policy, as it is called, will, in general, lead us
q2
194 MEMOIR OF THE
astray, and discover to us the impropriety of substituting
any thing in the place of positive principle. As long as we
attend to those obligations into which we have entered, we
n»ust be safe. Our adherence to principle, although it may
be less pleasing to a portion of our fellow-mortals, will cer-
tainly meet with the approbation of Heaven, the assent of
the discerning, and secure to us the peaceful witness of our
own consciences. These remarks have been elicited by the
observations contained in your last communication. You
have omitted, you say, parts of the Liturgy, in order to
meet the views of the people of your charge, and to render
them better satisfied with the service of the Church. In-
stead, however, of producing the effect you contemplated,
the reverse has been the result : for at the moment in
which your accommodating temper has satisfied some, the
sacrifices you have made, have displeased others, and have
ofTended those who have the greatest claim to your atten-
tion ; I mean the decided friends of the Church. My ad-
vice would be this : Request Mr. , and those other per-
sons in your neighbourhood who are acquainted with the
Liturgy, to unite in the responses; and whether the con-
gregation will join or not, give them the service as it is
ordered by the rubrics. This, in all possible cases, we have
pledged ourselves to do ; of course there can be no man,
whose good opinion we would value, who will blame us for
conforming to our engagements. The Scriptures, in par-
ticular, should always be read, and if any should ofifer an
objection to the measure, the very objection they ofter is
proof positive that they stand in need of the instruction
which the Scriptures contain. I have officiated several
times at , and have invariably used the whole service,
and never have been better pleased with the responses
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 195
than at that place ; they were confined very generally, it
is true, to the ladies; but as long as they were duly made,
I was satisfied, whether coming from the Hps of male or
female auditors. How are the people to become acquainted
with the Liturgy, unless the Liturgy is used ? Can our ser-
vices be called the services of the Episcopal Church, unless
the order of the rubrics is complied with 1 We are not sent
to officiate to any denomination but our own; of course, we
are not justifiable in violating our principles to meet the
views of any other description of people. If I were situated
in your parish, I would comply with the rules of the Church.
By so doing, I should be sure of pleasing my own flock, and
I do not think that I should displease the considerate of any
other denomination. I am well assured, that, in conversa-
tion, you always defend the usages and services of the
Church: by attending closely to them, the people will think
you sincere in what you say ; but should you be tempted
to sacrifice them to the prejudices of those unconnected
with us, the sincerity of your declarations will be questioned.
The path of duty is the path of safety. Take that ground
which you have pledged yourself to maintain, and you will
find that you will be respected and beloved.
Believe me, in great truth,
Your affectionate friend and father in Christ,
R. C. MooRE.
January 7th, 1825.
" Rev. and Dear Sir, — I am delighted to hear that you
have been well received by the members of the Church in
, and that your labours in the ministry are so generally
acceptable. May God, who is rich in mercy, continue to
196 MEMOIR OF THE
bless you, and render you useful in your day and gene-
ration.
" As I know, from experience, the temptations to aberrate
from the Liturgy with which you will be assailed ; you must
pardon me, in requesting you to resist them all. We have
solemnly promised to conform to the discipline and worship
of the Church upon all public occasions; and however
agreeable a departure from our obligations may be to some,
still men of principle will venerate and respect us for our
fidelity, and be pleased to see in us a scrupulous regard to
our ordination vows. The above observations have not
arisen from anything that 1 have ever heard unfavorable
to your regularity, but entirely from a knowledge of those
dangers to which a young clergyman of the Episcopal
Church is exposed in a new settlement. Steadiness and
inflexibility will, however, in time, overcome all difficulties
connected with the commencement of the work ; and when
other societies discover that we act from principle, they will
cease to find fault with our Prayer Book, and when pre-
sent, will consider themselves bound to unite with us in
the celebration of our excellent services."
April 29th, 1825.
" It is proper for me to mention to you, that, as a lay-
reader in the Church, Mr. must confine himself to
the use of the Liturgy, and read such printed sermons as
are approved of by the Church ; for should he be ever so
well qualified to exercise the duties of a religious instructor,
it would be improper for him to do so, until he has been
examined by the proper authority, and his competency
fully established. I have felt it my duty to state this fact,
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 197
as the canons of the Church declare, that should a candi-
date for orders deliver his own conipusitlon, it would be
considered a disqualification for holy orders. In the case
of a lay-reader, the obligcttions to use the Liturgy, and to
read approved sermons, are equally proper; as, without the
most rigid attention to those rules, men might inculcate
principles foreign to the views of the Church, and thus be
productive of more injury than benefit."
December 9th, 1828.
'• Rev. and Dear Sir, — I am pleased to perceive the in-
dustry which has marked your efforts in . It proves
an attachment to duty, without which, duty would prove a
burden: and furnishes me with reason to believe that as
your labours are delightful to your own mind, so those
labours will be edifying to the people, and will secure you
the blessing of God. I have always thought that if in early
life a clergyman discovers an indifference to the pursuits
of his calling, and a coldness in the discharge of the work
in which he has engaged, that middle life will find him in a
state of moral decrepitude, and advanced age in a com-
plete and confirmed religious palsy. As long as our zeal
is according to knowledge, we have great reason to bless
and thank God for its influence on our hearts, and should
daily supplicate him for an increased portion of his grace.
You have a fine field of labour before you, and should the
cause of religion and the Church prosper in your hands,
you will have the pleasure to reflect that that prosperity
has been produced by the blessing of God on your exer-
tions. I have always thought that there ought to be a
198 MEBIOIR OF THE
Church ererfpfi at , that being the most central part,
and should such an event take place, I hope it will be
built, not as a general place of worship, but as an Episco-
pal Church. By such a disposition of things, the rector of
the parish will always be sure he is no intruder ; and will
never be brought into a painful competition with other
societies of Christians.
" On the general plan, other ministers would have the
same right with yourself; by which means opposite doc-
trines would be inculcated from the same pulpit; the minds
of the young would be confused, instead of being edified ;
our Liturgy, perhaps, would be abused ; and discord, instead
of good order, become the reigning principle. To produce
peace with others, we must be strictly attached to our own
principles, persevering in the inculcation of them, and never
sacrificing them to please those who (experience teaches
us) will make no sacrifices to please us. Ministers of other
denominations, and the people too, will declare us very
liberal, provided we will use extempore prayers on public
occasions of worship : but should you ask them to use our
Prayer-book to please us, they would soon shew you their
superior consistency of conduct by a positive refusal. The
truth is, the Prayer-book contains the concentrated wisdom
of ages, and any man who would be willing to say he can
pray more to the purpose, must be a stranger to his own
powers, and to say the least of it, not remarkable for his
modesty. I have a perfect confidence in your judgment,
and from the knowledge I have of your excellent people, I
look forward with confidence to the prosperity of our par-
ticular communion."
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 199
TO A YOUNG CLERGYMAPf.
September 16th, 1826.
" Rev. and Dear Sir, — I have received your letter in
which you request my advice on the subjectof your present
situation. I do not hesitate to say that all the difficulties of
which you complain may be effectually removed, provided
you will observe that course of conduct which I shall pre-
scribe. No clergyman can be very successful, who does
not form an intimate fire-side acquaintance with his parish-
ioners. It is from frequent visits to the houses of his mem-
bers that he secures a place in their affections. By com-
municating to him their troubles, and receiving his advice,
a confidence in his friendship is produced, which a Sabbath
interview cannot effect. My counsel to you would be the
following: Take your horse and go to every family in
your parish ; breakfast with one, and pass an hour in suita-
ble religious conversation with the family ; dine with a
second, and pursue the same course; take a cup of tea or
coffee with a third; read, converse, and pray with them
all. By attending to this plan, you can visit, at the least,
eighteen families in a week, and by persisting in it you
will soon complete the tour through your entire district.
When you have finished, devote a few weeks to your
studies, then begin again, and never think the work finished,
as long as you possess health, strength, and life. By sa
doing you will render your people your personal friends.
If you should ask me, when am I to read ? I would answer.
Take a few select books in your pocket, and devote an
hour or two to that pursuit, before you retire at night. Men
who are your friends, and who see you frequently at their
houses, will endeavour to make good their promised sup-
/
200 MEMOIR OF THE
port ; your wants will therefore all be supplied, and your
mind be at rest.
Should you remove into another parish, you would never
be happy without pursuing the plan above prescribed : I
would advise you therefore to try the experiment in -^ ,
where the people think affectionately of you; and should
you find my plan to fail, then write to me, and I will afford
you every facility in my power to change your residence.
TO A CLERGYMAN, (REVERENCE FOR SACRED PLACES.)
January, 25th, 1825.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — The representation you have given
me of that sacred cause in which you have engaged, in
, is truly encouraging, highly honourable to yourself,
and beneficial to the religious community of which your
society constitutes a member. All that is requisite to
render your labours productive of that benefit we could
wish, is firmness in the discharge of your duties. The
Liturgy is certainly to be used every Sunday : and when
such a man as , who, although a Presbyterian, haa
expressed himself in terms favourable to the Prayer-book,
we should not permit the objections of others to weigh so
far with us as to produce the least departure from the
rubrics.
By consistency of conduct on our part we shall please
our friends, and all who join us, will join us as Churchmen,
and of course give the preference to our incomparable
Liturgy. In a letter received from Mr. , I perceive
that the district under his care is equally flourishing, and
I am pleased to find, that if he is to have a Church, that
Church, he has resolved to consider exclusively his own.
I would advise you to proceed upon the same plan. Should
LIFE or BISHOP MOOEE. 201
you unite with the Masons in the erection of a building, by
what name would you distinguish it? At one time it would
be devoted to the service of God, and at another time to a
Masonic meeting, if not to a Masonic Ball. Were I in
your place, I would rather devote the money subscribed to
a Church built of logs, and ceiled within, than to a build-
ing of a superior order, devoted to other purposes. Let it
not be said that from these observations I am opposed to
Masonry. All that I plead for is consistency; and as I
could not consecrate a building of the character alluded to,
I should feel reluctant to administer the Lord's Supper
within its walls.
How could you commence the service with that sublime
sentence in the Prayer-book, " The Lord is in his holy-
temple," when the house had been devoted to worldly
purposes, and perhaps the evening before, the fiddler had
filled its courts? I hope that you, and your friends, may
view the subject through the same medium with myself,
and that you will unite in the erection of an Episcopal
Church.
Your friend and Father in Jesus,
R. C. Moore.
January 31st, 1825. ]
Rev. and Dear Sir, — Your letter produced in my mind a
pleasure which I cannot readily find words to express.
With such a view of things as you have embraced, and
with such an attachment to the Church, and her incompara-
ble services, I assure myself that your success will be great,
and that all who unite under your ministry, will be pious
and well instructed Episcopalians. I am pleased to dis-
cover that your Brethren and are also engaged
R
203 MEMOIR OF THE
with all their powers in the same noble work ; may the
Lord prosper the work of your hands and hearts.
I consider you correct in the stand you have taken
relative to a place of worship. A free Church ever has
been, and ever will prove, a bone of contention. By in-
culcating from the same pulpit the propriety of Infant
Baptism one Sunday, and their want of title to that Sacra-
ment, the next Sabbath : by inculcating particular elec-
tion one Sunday, and general redemption another: by in-
culcating the use of a Liturgy to-day, and insisting upon no
Liturgy to-morrow ; the minds of the people will become
confused : and it will appear a matter of indifference what
sentiments they cherish, and to what denomination they
belong, or what system of worship they adopt.
I hope that you and your brethren in the neighbourhood
will strengthen each other's hands by an occasional ex-
change of pulpits: live in love, tread in the path of holi-
ness, be devoted to your duty, and the Almighty will crown
your labours with success.
Your friend and Father,
R. C. Moore.
He who was thus zealous in his attachment to the
Liturgy of the Church, and faithful in recommending the
performance of its offices in strict conformity with the di-
rections of the rubrics, was ever ready to vindicate the
doctrines of the Church, and upon all suitable occasions to
express his own views in reference to those about which
the equivocal language of our standards leaves room for
discussion and difference of opinion. A clergyman of a
neighbouring Diocese having expressed to Bishop Moore
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOHE. 203
his difficulties and embarrassments in reference to the use
of the offices of Baptism, gave occasion to the following
letters on the much controverted point of Baptismal Re-
generation.
LETTER TO REV. MR. H , ON BAPTISM.
March 20th, 1823.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — I cannot express to you the satisfac-
tion I should reap from an attendance upon your Conven-
tion, but, situated as I am, the thing appears impossible. I
have no support but what I derive from my parish, of
course I dare not venture to trespass too far upon the indul-
gence of my congregation. You will recollect that the
G)nvention of Virginia is to take place in May, and after
that;the General Convention. In attending that of Carolina
and those two other assemblies, I should necessarily be absent
two months. While Dr. Buchanan was alive to fill my
pulpit, the congregation cheerfully submitted : but was I to
shut my Church for such a length of time, I am confident
there would be a great uneasiness excited, if not something
worse. I must therefore submit to circumstances, and
trammeled as I am, make the best of things. Should the
Convention of N. Carolina find it impossible at this time to fix
upon a suitable person to fill the Episcopal chair, let it be
remembered that I have no desire to withhold my services,
or to dissolve the connextion subsisting between us, but
will, as far as practicable, discharge those duties for you,
peculiar to my office. I shall soon, I hope, have an assist-
ant ; 1 offer myself to give towards his support 8500 per
annum out of my salary, and, could ways and means be
found to aid me effectually from other quarters, I should
l>e at perfect liberty to absent rnyself from Richmond, for
204 MEMOIR OF THE
any necessary length of time. I wish you to make this
known to the Convention, (provided you think it expedient)
and to assure them of my most affectionate and grateful
regard. Should I obtain an assistant, and should you not
elect a Bishop, let good Mr. JVliller know that it is highly
probable I shall visit his district in the course of the sum-
mer : of which he shall receive timely notice.
" As I did not quote Bishop Hopkins upon the subject of
Baptismal Regeneration, you had a right to conclude that
I did not rely much upon his support. Calvinism is the
point upon which he stumbles ; notwithstanding which, he
says, in vol. 2nd, page 423, Edition, ' that Baptismal
Regeneration must be acknowledged by all, that will not
wilfully shut their eyes against the clear evidence of Scrip-
ture.' His expression is stronger than I should use upon
the occasion, as it would deny every principle of charity to
those who differ from me on the question. You remark
' that, according to my view of the 3rd chapter of John ,
baptism by water is as necessary to salvation, as the bap-
tism of the Spirit. If I understand you rightly, the latter
cannot take place without the former.' 1 feel confident
that Hooker, in the quotation I have already given you,
had his eye upon that passage of Scripture, in order to do
away the very objection you make. He qualifies his asser-
tion by saying — * as we are not naturally men without
birth, so neither are we Christian men in the eye of the
Church of God, but by new birth, nor, according to the
manifest and ordinary course of divine dispensation, new
born, but by that baptism which both declareth and
maketh us Christians.' The Almighty appoints his own
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 205
ordinances, and it is our duty to comply with thenn, but
I am not obliged to believe that he is tied down, and con-
fined exclusively to those rules which are given for our
observance. Paul was converted in a miraculous manner;
but you cannot, I think, show me, where he is represented
as regenerated and his sins washed away, prior to his bap-
tism. If we rob the ordinance of its spiritual influence, we
render it a mere ceremony. Now I would ask you as a
good Christian, which in my heart I believe you to be,
Would the Saviour and his Apostles have laid such an
unbounded stress upon a mere ceremony? Would Saul,
after his conversion, have been referred by Christ himself to
Ananias, for the performance of a mere ceremony ? Would
Ananias have said, ' arise and be baptized and wash away
thy sins,' if baptism had been a mere ceremony ? Would
he have enjoined the Sacrament of baptism upon Saul, if
his sins had been washed away at any preceding period ?
The subject is indeed too copious to be fully discussed in a
letter of usual length, and I have dropped the few hints
contained in this communication, merely to show you that
my sentiments are in unison with those of the judicious
Hooker, upon the subject. It has been said, by wise
men, that metaphysical science is unfriendly to religion.
It certainly is so, when we lay down systems, and make
Scripture bend to those we establish. Hooker and Beve-
ridge were men of sound sense ; but I perceive that, in all
their writings, systems are made to yield to Scripture.
Such is my plan. I know that my understanding, in mat-
ters of religion, is confined to what has been revealed; I
therefore take my Heavenly Father at his word; and with-
out presuming to question principles which are beyond my
comprehension, and which my blind reason cannot fathom,
I believe what is commanded must be right, from a con-
r2
206 MEMOIR OF THE
viction that the God of love can do nothing that is wrong.
From my soul I wish that your mind was as fully satisfied
upon the subject of baptism as mine is. Newton, in one of
his hymns, says, *' do not reason, but believe." If I was to
believe nothing but what I can perfectly understand, I
should stop at the very threshold ; for I confess that 1 am
as incapable of embracing in my understanding the princi-
ple of the first great uncreated cause of all things, as an
infant; and yet my mind embraces the principle as fully
as if I was perfectly acquainted with the whole subject.
That we may both have our minds illumined, as it is ne-
cessary they should be, is the prayer of your
Sincere friend and father in Jesus,
R. C. MoORE."
TO REV. MR. H ON BAPTISM.
Richmond, Dec. 7th, 1823.
Rev. and Dear Sir, — A great variety of circumstances
have prevented me from attending to your last favour at
an earlier period than the present moment. Inclination,
and a regard for your peace of mind upon the subject of
Baptism, would have produced an immediate reply ; but as
my time is not my own, I will, without further preface,
proceed to make such remarks as grow out of the subject
in question. Metaphysical reasoning very frequently in-
volves the inquirer after truth in difiiculties, to which an
honest and untutored mind is not subject. We often estab-
lish premises which are at variance with Scripture pre-
cept, and, of course, our deductions cannot be in harmony
with the text. This I conceive to be the case with bap-
tismal regeneration. The Calvinist says, that all who re-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 207
ceive grace shall infallibly persevere ; of course, those who
fail into sin after baptism, and die impenitent, never had
grace. As I do not subscribe to the doctrine of persever-
ance to the extent maintained by the followers of Calvin,
as I believe that man may resist grace, and finally perish ;
the dilemma in which the strict Calvinist is involved, does
not bear upon my opinions, and leaves me at liberty to
believe that the sacraments of the Lord Jesus are no nul-
lities, but gracious and holy means, worthy of their Divine
Author, and consistent with the dispensation of mercy re-
vealed in the Gospel. You ask for Scripture proof in
favour of divine grace as an attendant upon Baptism duly
administered. When the Lord Jesus was baptized by the
Baptist, I perceive from the sacred oracles, that the Holy
Ghost descended upon him ; and that a voice from heaven
proclaimed him as the beloved Son of the Most High God.
In the third chapter of St. John's Gospel, I see the doctrine
of baptismal regeneration fully established. Our Saviour
told Nicodemus that he must he born again ; and when
he expressed his surprise at the declaration, our Saviour
explained his meaning, by saying: " Except a man be born
of water, and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom
of God." After which assertion, he proves the reference
he had to his first declaration, by again observing : " Marvel
not that I said unto thee, ye must be born again." When
Peter preached to the Jews, he connected grace with bap-
tism in these words: "Repent, and be baptized, every one
of you, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the
gift of the Holy Ghost; for the promise is to you and your
children." When Paul speaks upon the subject to Titus,
he also connects the two together : " The washing of re-
generation, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost." The
Church, in her services, most undoubtedly combines the
208 MEMOIE OF THE
Holy Spirit with the external use of water, and teaches us
to thank God for having regenerated the child with his
Holy Spirit. When I reflect upon the piety and good
sense of those who drew up the Liturgy, 1 am obliged to
think that they had such reasons to justify the expressions,
as were satisfactory to their own minds, and in perfect
unison with the Scripture passages I have just quoted.
Bishop Taylor declares, " Baptism is a neio birth, by which
we enter into the neiv world, the new creature, the bless-
ings and spiritualities of the kingdom. From this time
forward, we have a new principle put into us, the spirit of
grace." Bishop Wilson observes: " Regeneration, or new
birth, is that spiritual change which is wrought by the
Holy Spirit, upon any person in the use of baptism."
Bishop Beveridge remarks : " That we may be born of the
Spirit, we must be born also of water, which our Saviour
puts in the first place. It is the ordinance appointed by
Christ, wherein he regenerates us by his Holy Spirit. He
that would be born of the Spirit must be born of water
also." Hooker declares : " As we are not naturally men
without birth, so neither are we Christian men in the eyes
of the Church of God, but by new birth; nor, according to
the manifest ordinary course of divine dispensation, new
born; but by that baptism which declareth and maketh us
Christians. In which respects, (now mark his words,) we
justly hold it to be the door of our actual entrance into
God's house, the first apparent beginning of life, a seal,
perhaps, to the grace of election before received ; but to our
sanctification here, a step that hath not any before it."
The learned Mede illumines his representation of the
blessing attendant upon baptism, by a bold, vigorous, and
sublime idea. He carries his reader back to the baptism
of the Lord Jesus. He shows him the Holy Ghost as an ac-
LIFE or BISHOP MOORE. 209
companiment of that ordinance, visibly descending upon
the Redeemer, in the shape of a dove, and then remarks:
" In that baptism of his, the mystery of all our baptisms
was visibly acted ; and that God says to every one truly
baptized, as he said to him in a proportionable sense,
* Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.' " I
have Hooker's fifth book of Ecclesiastical Polity now before
me, from which I intended to make some further quotations ;
but as his observations are so lengthy, and so excellent, t must
refer you to that work upon the subject ; confident that,
by a careful perusal of it, your difficulties will all vanish,
and give way to the force of his conclusive reasoning. I
can feel for your embarrassment, because I once was simi-
larly situated. My perplexity arose, not from Scripture,
but from my having laid down false premises in my own
mind, and then drawing from those premises false conclu-
sions. I would advise you to read the third of John, Peter's
address to the Jews, and Paul's definition of baptism, in his
Epistle to Titus ; and divesting your mind of all precon-
ceived opinions, ask yourself the question. What construc-
tion would a rational man, who had never heard of baptism,
nor read upon the subject, put upon those passages? What
construction would a man, who was an entire stranger to
the divinity of the schools, put upon our Saviour's remarks
to Nicodemus, Peter's address to the Jews, and Paul's
expression to Titus? If lam not mistaken, your honest
mind will conclude, that he would think, and believe, that
baptism forms the regeneration of which we are treating ;
and that he would consider the Holy Spirit as an attendant
upon the ordinance. Should a child, after baptism, fall
into sin, I could not, in my conscience, consider his fall as
a proof that he never had grace, any more than I should
consider an adult who falls into sin, after being duly awa-
210 HEMOIB OF THE
kened and converted to God, never to have had grace.
Peter fell subsequent to his glorious testimony concern-
ing the Saviour; a testimony which the Saviour said,^e*A
and blood had not revealed to him.
If once we take the ground that all who have grace
must and shall infallibly persevere, then we immediately
must believe, that all who do not persevere never had
grace; and, consequently, maintain the soul-appalhng and
unscriptural doctrine of preterition or reprobation. " God
is love," and, therefore, delights not in the death of a sin-
ner. He says that " he will have all men to be saved, and
to come to the knowledge of the truth ;" and, when he re-
vealed himself to Moses, he furnished that prophet, and us,
with the most animating, soul-inspiring view of his good-
ness and mercy ; representing himself in colours the most
benevolent, amiable, and encouraging ; in the character of
a compassionate Father, whose love is universal, embracing
all his children — affectionate, tender-hearted, and merciful.
" The Lord God, merciful and gracious." Those who be-
lieve in reprobation are welcome to all the gloomy horrors
inseparable from the doctrine. For my own part I do not
believe one word of it, neither do I think I ever can while
I retain my senses. When God tells me that he delights
not in the death of the wicked, why should I not believe
my Maker ? When he tells me that the Saviour is the pro-
pitiation for the sins of the whole world, why should I dis-
credit the assertion ? When he says, that we will not come
unto him, that we may have life, why should 1 endeavour
to exonerate the offender, by saying that he cannot go, and
charge the fault to my heavenly Father ? With my latest
voice I hope to proclaim the riches of redeeming grace,
and to assert in my last moments that " God is love." I
wish you Uved nearer to me, that we might converse freely
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 211
and fully upon that subject, which I believe to be the near-
est to your heart, namely, the salvation of the human race.
By an interchange of sentiments we should enliven each
other, and derive fresh strength from conversation. As
long as I have reason to believe that the mercy of God has
been extended to me, I cannot doubt of the kindness of the
Almighty toward my fellow creatures. If he had not been
the very being which he represents himself to be, a mer-
ciful God ! I should have been a stranger to the covenant
of his mercy, for I sinned against him with my eyes open.
He has redeemed me by his blood, works in me by his
Holy Spirit, and, provided I do not expel that spirit from
my heart, he will receive me into heaven : which may God
grant to be the case with you, my beloved friend : and all
that you and I love and hold dear upon earth. Give my
love to Mrs, H., and believe me,
Your sincere friend,
and father in Christ Jesus,
Richard Chaining Moore.
In common with most others who have long been in the
ministry. Bishop Moore was grieved at the migratory habits
of too many of the clergy. He deemed a fixed residence
important, if not essential, to their extensive and perma-
nent usefulness. He attached much sacredness to the rela-
tion between pastor and people, and deemed the frequent
sundering of it as attended with serious evils, and likely to
produce a deleterious effect upon the character of the
ministry and the welfare of the parishes. It would be well
for those who are given to change, and for those who are
beset with temptations to seek for an increase of usefulness
or comfort, by removing from the post of duty in the
Church which Providence has assigned them, to ponder
212 MEMOIR OF THE
the wise counsels contained in the following extracts from
letters to two young clergymen of the Church.
LETTER TO A CLERGYMAN.
Jan. 25, 1832.
Rev. and dear Sir,— I am grieved to find, from your late
communication, that you cannot make yourself happy in
your present cure. If you have not forgotten, you assured
me that you considered it a situation in which you thought
you would be peculiarly useful ; that the salubrity of its
clime would agree with your constitution and contribute to
your health. After such a representation, made of your
own accord, you cannot, with propriety, wonder, that I
should be afflicted at your desire to leave that people as
sheep without a shepherd, and to look for a new situation.
You remark, in your letter, that the people of dis-
covered a disposition to obtain your services. To a settle-
ment with them, I have no objection. Should they con-
tinue to encourage you, and should they invite you to a
settlement with them, provided it meet with your appro-
bation, accept their offer, and enter with spirit upon the
discharge of your duties. There are a number of vacant
parishes calling for clerical help. is now destitute, in
which parish there are two good Churches and a good con-
gregation ; among whom, I am sensible, I would be happy and
contented. , is also vacant, in which a single man,
devoted to his duty, would tind ample support. They have
an excellent church, and also a respectable congregation.
Several churches, in the Northern Neck of Virginia, are
anxious to settle ministers, in one of which Mr. , whom
I ordained last summer, would have settled, had he not been
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 213
prevented going there by a violent affection of one of his
limbs. If you are disposed to visit the place I have men-
tioned, let me know, and I will give you the necessary let-
ters. Before you conclude to settle in any place, reflect
deeply on the subject, and, when your mind is made up on
the occasion, enter on the discharge of your duties with
spirit ; never expect to fix yourself in any parish, in which
everything will be agreeable, but endeavour to meet your
difficulties with fortitude, enduring hardness as a good sol-
dier of Jesus Christ. A frequent change of residence will
operate to the disadvantage of any man. Endeavour to be
stationary in your habits, and in so doing Providence will
take care of you, and promote you in due time ; but, should
you be found frequently on the wing, depend upon it, such
a disposition will prove a disadvantage to you through life.
I have dropped the above remark from motives of a sin-
cere and fatherly regard, they are such as I should present
to the view of my son, and endeavour to impress on his
mind in indelible characters.
I remain, very affectionately,
Your friend and father in the ministry,
Richard Channing Moore.
Rev. and dear Sir, — Since the receipt of your last let-
ter I have been deeply engaged in reflecting upon its con-
tents ; and weighing, in the balance of a sober judgment,
the course most proper for me, as your sincere friend, to
adopt. At one time I had concluded that it would be best
to preserve silence, knowing that my views of those mea-
sures proper for you to pursue, are at variance with your
own; and, fearful that you might suppose me to be actua-
ted, more by a love for the Church, than a regard to your
214 MEMOIR OF THE
interests. The affection, however, which I entertain for
you has overconne my scruples ; and, although my opinions
may not be thought worthy of attention, still, as 1 should
feel myself condemned, were I to withhold them, I have
concluded to present them to your view. My family have
heard me express the apprehensions under which my mind
laboured, upon being made acquainted with your visit to
. My recollections told me, that you had preached
there repeatedly, consequently that the people were ac-
quainted with your talents as a public speaker ; and my ex-
perience told me, that the surest way to, obtain the place,
was to conceal, in a dignified way, your anxiety; and, by
that means, to have produced in the minds of the vestry,
at least an uncertainty as to your acceptance. A female
of virtue, conscious of her worth, will be wooed, and, in
proportion to her apparent indifference, will be pursued by
her admirers; while another, who appears anxious to com-
pass her objects, will frequently come short of her mark.
I have brought forward the above strong figure in order
that the truth of my position may force itself upon your
mind, and serve you as a Vade mecum, upon all future oc-
casions. To prove it correct, attend to the following re-
marks. To the rectorship of St. Stephen's and also to this
place, I was called, without ever having officiated in either
Church. It is a maxim in philosophy that water will find
its level. It is a law of nature, and cannot be controlled
without great obstructions are raised against it. A man of
good talents and established reputation will rise. It is the
law of nature, and cannot be controlled, unless the indi-
vidual obstructs his own course. If I was of your age, and
wished to be promoted, I would attend to my duties in that
place in which it hath pleased God to fix me, thereby re-
ceiving the approbation of my parishioners: influencing
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOKE. 215
them, by my fidelity, to speak well of me, and wait with
patience, until Heaven pointed out, with the finger of Pro-
vidence, the path for me to pursue. Let the Almighty
lead you, and all will be well; but the moment you
attempt to lead the Almighty, disappointment will al-
most invariably follow. Jonah did not like his embassy to
Nineveh, and soon found himself in the whale's belly.
When he complied with the letter of his commission, the
Almighty owned him, elevated him in the opinion of socie-
ty, and blessed his labours. I mention this as a proof that
it is better to follow than to lead Providence. Your good
sense will prevent you from being offended at my honesty,
as it is my duty to guard and to advise you. My motive
is pure. It proceeds from affection to you and to all con-
nected with you. Mr. left this diocese to go to a city,
I have expressed to him my fears, and time will prove the
truth or absurdity of my prediction. Mr. has been
called as assistant to Bishop , who is seated in the
bosom of his friends. I will write to , and endea-
vour to ascertain what can be done in the parish. Write
freely to me on all subjects. Remember me to your family,
and believe me,
With great regard.
Your sincere friend,
Richard Chan^ning Moore.
Feb. 26, 1822.
The principles by which Bishop Moore was guided in
the exercise of his office, and in the performance of the re-
sponsible and multifarious duties which devolved upon him
as a Bishop in the Church of God, have been sufficiently
indicated in the preceding parts of this Memoir, and espe-
216 MEMOIR OF THE
cially in those letters which have been offered for the
reader's perusal in the present chapter. It is unnecessary
to give a more nninute statement of his principles. Suffice
it to say, they were such as he had learned in the school of
Christ. Being deduced from the inspired volume, and fully
recognized in the Articles, Liturgy, and Homilies of the
Church, he became more and more confirmed in them by
his experience of their practical influence in the different
spheres and stages of his protracted ministry.
To the enforcement and propagation of those principles,
his life was devoted with unwavering zeal and persevering
energy. Having passed the meridian of life before entering
upon his Episcopate, it is a matter of astonishment to us
that, in addition to the duties of a large parish, he should
have been enabled to accomplish such an amount of labour
as was required of him in the visitations of his diocese.
The record of every year shows that he was always con-
scious of the vast responsibility imposed upon him in the
care of all the Churches, and ever anxious to discharge it
to the full extent of his ability. He took many journies
of great extent, and was daily employed in the public per-
formance of his high duties as an ambassador of God. Not
content with the perfunctory discharge of his official work
in the Churches, we often find him indulging in his favourite
habit of lecturing in private houses, not only in his own
parish, but on his visitations of others. Wherever he went,
multitudes hung upon his lips ; his services awakened the
deepest interest; and labouring in season, and out of season,
not only in the temple, but from house to house, he had the
happiness of knowing that his work was not in vain in the
Lord ; sinners were turned from the error of their ways,
and believers edified in faith and love.
In addition to the heavy duties of his own diocese, he, in
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE, 217
compliance with the request of the Church in that state,
assumed the provisional charge of the diocese of North
Carolina, and continued to perform the necessary Episcopal
duties there from the year 1819 until 1823, when the Rev.
John S. Ravenscroft, one of the clergy of Virginia, having
been elected and consecrated Bishop, relieved him of this
part of his labour. The services of Bishop Moore in that
diocese, were highly acceptable and useful, and contri-
buted, by God's blessing, to lay, broad and deep, the foun-
dation of its future prosperity.
The Bishop's encouragement under the multiplied and
oppressive cares of his official station, was derived from
firm reliance upon the Divine promises ; from his rich ex-
perience of the Divine blessing in the harvest he was per-
mitted to reap, even while engaged in sowing the seed;
and from the affectionate confidence he reposed in the cor-
dial co-operation of a united, zealous, evangelical clergy.
Often did he give expression to his feelings in language fer-
vent and glowing, like that of the following extract from
one of his conventional addresses.
" When travelling through this extensive diocese, fatigued
with labours peculiar to the station which I occupy, my
spirits are always revived by recurring to that noble prin-
ciple which forms the soul of this Convention, and which
animates the bosom of each individual member. It is to
raise our Zion from the dust, to build up her prostrated
altars, and to furnish the people of our communion with
the bread of life, that we are labouring. Jehovah, from
his throne of mercy, looks down with approbation, and
whispers to our hearts, * Well done, good and faithful ser-
vants.' When the ruins of our desolated temples meet my
eye, and the religious privations of the people are present-
ed to my view, my soul is overwhelmed with those reflec-
s 2
218 MEMOIR OF THE
tions peculiar to the case. Considering the enemy of man-
kind as the origin of the desolation and distress which I be-
hold, a new impetus is communicated to my mind. The
cross of the Lord Jesus Christ is presented to my view% and,
' Lo ! I am with you always,' revives my heart, and impels
me to renewed exertion. To labour in the vineyard of
the crucified Saviour, has formed my chief delight for the
last thirty-two years of my life ; and though the power of
doing good is in a degree abridged by an increase of years,
still my inclination is as great as it has ever been ; and if
I can add one stone to the sacred edifice, and see the
Church of my fathers placed upon that sacred height to
which the apostolic purity of her doctrines entitles her, I
shall commit my head to the pillow of death with satisfac-
tion, and leave my best blessings to those who shall sur-
vive me.
"When I look around me, and, with anxious solicitude,
view those labourers engaged with me in the work ; when
1 witness their zeal, and Hsten to the sacred truths they
deliver; when I hear the name of Jesus, and the triumphs
of redeeming grace proclaimed by youthful lips ; when I
see the standard of the cross erected in every pulpit;
when I hear the Redeemer proclaimed as the Lord our
righteousness, the only hope of the believer; when I see
the ministers of the Church leading their flocks to the
Saviour, as ' the way, the truth, and the life ;' when I
behold those who have been set apart to the sacred minis-
try by the imposition of my hands, treading in the steps of
Hall, Davenant, and Hooker; conducting their fellow-
mortals, not to Socrates and Seneca for relief, but to that
fountain which was opened on Calvary for the salvation
of a ruined world ; the wilderness and the solitary places
of the Church appear stripped of their weeds, and are pre-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 219
sented to my enraptured view in all the verdure of primi-
tive times.
Brethren, we have much cause of gratitude to God for
the mercies conferred upon us ; and though all has not been
done that we could have wished, still enough has been
effected to convince us that the Lord is with us, and that
Jehovah smiles upon our efforts."
While the venerable father entertained a strong regard
for all his sons in the ministry possessed of the valuable
traits of professional character enumerated in the foregoing
extract, he cherished an especial warmth of attachment
for those who were in the diocese when he came to it,
and had faithfully shared his solicitude and labours in the
work of its resuscitation. Of these, Norris and Wilmer,
both natives of Maryland, who had removed to the diocese
of Virginia at an early period after their ordination, and, in
the important stations they respectively occupied, had
cheerfully borne "the heat and burden of the day," with
whom he had often " taken sweet counsel together," and
by whose affectionate attentions he had hoped to be soothed
amidst the infirmities of advanced years and the weakness
of decaying nature, were both unexpectedly taken away
in the midst of their years and usefulness, while their vene-
rable Bishop and friend remained, with his eye undimmed,
and his natural force almost unabated.
The Rev. Oliver Norris, for many years Rector of
Christ Church, Alexandria, was one of the most amiable
and lovely of men. In him great sweetness of natural dis-
position was sanctified by the graces and adorned with all
the virtues of religion. As a preacher, while he shunned
not to proclaim the terrors of the law to the wicked, it
was his peculiar delight to offer peace and pardon through
Christ crucified to the contrite, and announce the full
220 MEMOIR OF THE
mercies of redemption to the true believer. As a pastor,
he was tender, assiduous, and watchful. He closed a min-
istry marked with fidelity and success, and a life of faith,
beautifully confirmed and illustrated by the duties of holi-
ness, in a death full of tranquility and hope, in August
1825.
The decease of Mr. Norris is thus noticed in the report
of the Trustees of the Theological School for 1826 : " In
performing this annual duty, the trustees have first to re-
cord a dispensation of Providence which has created a
vacancy in the Board by the death of a beloved brother
who departed this life in August last. In the decease of
the Rev. Mr. Norris, the Diocese of Virginia has lost one of
the earliest and best of those ministers whom Providence
raised up to bear the heat and burden of reviving our fast
expiring Church, and our Seminary is called to part with
an old and constant friend.
" Just as he was preparing to perform some further duty
assigned him by the Board at its last meeting, it pleased
the great Head of the Church to call him to a higher service
and greater honour in the Church above."
The Rev. William H. Wilmer, D. D., first rector of St.
Paul's Church, Alexandria, while no less distinguished by
the graces of personal religion and ministerial fidelity than
his brother and fellow labourer in the work of the Gospel
in the same city — was possessed of wider influence and
greater activity in the concerns of the Diocese and the
Church at large. His sound Church principles, strong
judgment, and varied learning, not only secured for him a
high rank among the chief ministers and safe counsellors of
the Church in Virginia, but gave him such weight of
character in the Church of this Union, that he was, for
several successive sessions, chosen President of the House of
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 221
Clerical and Lay Deputies in General Convention, and
the duties of that high station were performed by him with
a degree of ability, dignity, and impartiality, that insured
the affectionate confidence and respect of the whole re-
presentative body of the Church. His occasional sermons
and controversial writings were highly respectable produc-
tions, and his " Episcopal Manual" is a work of permanent
merit — presenting as faithful a compendium of the doc-
trines of the Church, and as able a vindication of her min-
istry, government and Liturgy, as can be found in any
volume of the same size. In connexion with the rectorship
of St. Paul's he continued to perform the duties of a Pro-
fessorship in the Seminary, until he was called to the Pre-
sidency of William and Mary College, and the rectorship
of Bruton parish, Williamsburg, where, after a short resi-
dence, he died in 1827.
At the Convention next succeeding the death of Mr.
Norris, no Episcopal address was delivered ; but in that of
1828, the loss of Dr. Wilmer is thus noticed :
" In touching on the subject of the bereavement we have
experienced in the death of our beloved Wilmer, it is im-
possible for me to find language sufficiently strong to ex-
press that sense' of his loss which fills my mind. He was
one of those who first called my attention to this Diocese ;
and of the three clergymen who corresponded with me on
that subject, one only now remains. He, I trust, will be
spared to assist you with his counsel when my head will be
slumbering in the tomb.
" To the usefulness of Dr. Wilmer, we must all subscribe.
He was a man of business and of piety. He loved his God,
and the interests of the Church were near his heart. As a
preacher, he was faithful, energetic, eloquent. He was
the friend of evangelical religion, and considered that the
222 MEMOIR OF THE
strictest regard to the public order of the Church was per-
fectly compatible with the most animated social worship in
the houses of his parishioners and friends. His private
meetings — formed, in his opinion, the nursery of the Church,
and were blessed to the edification and comfort of his con-
gregation. He was always ready to discharge his duty.
Like the apostle Paul, he not only taught his people pub-
licly, but went from house to house, exhorting them to
prepare to meet their God. His fidelity in the discharge
of his duty met my warmest approbation ; and if it is your
wish, my brethren of the clergy, to give an account of your
stewardship with joy, oh, let me entreat you all to ' go and
do likewise.' "
The loss of such valuable fellow laborers would, at any
time, have proved a heavy affliction to one who loved so
sincerely and tenderly as Bishop Moore did, but it was felt
the more deeply because, about that period, he suffered
severely from repeated visitations of a painful disease,
which had led him to apprehend that he would soon be
subject to the permanent and incurable infirmities of age,
or that his earthly career would be brought to a sudden
termination.
Unlike most men, he was not desirous to be thought
younger than he really was; but on the contrary, even at
the age of sixty-three or before, he was accustomed to
speak almost as freely of his trembling limbs, gray hairs,
and failing energies, as he did when he had become a
patriarch of nearly fourscore years.
About this time his avowed design of retiring from his
Diocese when he should become incapacitated for his
duties began to be generally spoken of as about to be
carried into execution. In the year 1825 he wrote the
following letter to a friend in reference to that rumor :
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOHE. 223
Richmond, January 14lh, 1826.
Dear Sir, — The rumor which has reached you relative
to my removal, has arisen from my endeavours to procure
an assistant: and also from my determination to retire,
should my health be so imperfect as to prevent me from
the discharge of public duties. All that I have said has
been founded upon the basis of my bodily indisposition, and
the reluctance I feel in holding an office, the duties of
w^hich, that bodily indisposition would prevent me from
fulfilling. Although all your judicious efforts for the sup-
port of the Episcopate have failed, and although I believe \
your greatest exertions will continue to fail, until the opin-
ion of one or two gentlemen can be changed upon the sub-
ject, still I will alford you every countenance in my power,
by recommending the measure to the members of the next
Convention. As I never expect to reap any advantage
from the Episcopal fund, I may perhaps be so fortunate as
to escape unkind remarks from the disclosure of my views;
and I believe it will not be very long before the opposers
of the measure will see their error. I shall content myself
with an assurance of their approbation at some future day.
Had we all been Episcopalians in the strict sense of the
word, the Church of Virginia would not have been in her
present languid condition. We had most of the principal
people with us, and if they had been united in sentiment,
acting in accordance with the spiritual government to
which we belong, we should have commanded their respect
and obtained their support. Parity of order and the doc-
trine of Episcopacy are two distinct things, and to incorpo-
rate them is as much impossible as to unite water with oil.
The Committee and myself must take special care that we
do not lose sight of the above principle. Your letters
224 MEMOIR OF THE
always afford me so much pleasure, that T must request
you to repeat them, as frequently as your avocations will
permit. With compliments to Mrs. , and family,
Believe me
Your sincere friend and Pastor,
Richard Channing Moore.
Having, by an arrangement with the Convention and
with the vestry of the Monumental Church, enjoyed the
aid of an assistant in his parish, it soon became evident to
himself and his friends that he required assistance also in
the duties of his large and increasing Diocese. According-
ly in his conventional address of 1828, the making the
necessary provision for this object was thus strongly re-
commended.
*' Before I conclude, there is one more point to which I
think it my duty to call the attention of this Convention :
and as a year must necessarily elapse before a final de-
termination of the question can take place, we shall have
full time allowed us for reflection and consideration.
" Although my labours the past year have been equal to
those of any preceding twelve months, still from my ad-
vanced age, it is impossible for me to calculate upon a long
continuance of such effort and exertion. It is my wish,
provided the Convention should think proper, so to alter
the constitution of the Church as to admit of the consecra-
tion of either a suffragan, or an assistant Bishop in this
Diocese. It was proposed several years ago, in consequence
of the great extent of this Diocese, to divide it into two
parts, in order that the parishes might receive Episcopal
visitations more frequently than is prescribed by the canons.
As this purpose can be secured by the appointment of a
LIFE OF BISHOP M00r3. 225
suffragan, or an assistant Bishop, I ^' ould recommend it to
the Convention so to alter the cons'^tution as to secure the
contemplated measure. It is my' sincere desire that a
Bishop should be appointed durin^- .ly life ; and as such an
appointment can now be made v, 1 perfect unanimity, it
is expedient that it should be one. It will give me
pleasure to unite in labour with tliV man of your choice.
It will render me happy in the hour of my departure, to
know the individual to whom I am to resign the arduous
duties of the Episcopate ; to whose care this peaceful, quiet
Diocese shall be committed. May the Almighty direct us
in all our doings with his most gracious favour, and further
us with his continual help."
In compliance with the earnest desire thus expressed, the
Convention adopted the necessary preliminary measures,
and at the earliest practicable period effected the proposed
change in the constitution, and immediately proceeded to
act under it by electing the Rev. "Wm. Meade, D. D.,
assistant Bishop of the Diocese. The lovely character,
well known talents, and unaffected piety of this gentle-
man rendered him an almost universal favourite in his
native state — while his long and faithful labours for the
good of the Church had secured for him an amount of
influence possessed by no other clergyman in the Diocese,
and proved him well adapted to the work of Episcopal
supervision. But in the very act of complying with the
wish of their venerable father by choosing an assistant in
the labours of the Episcopate, the Convention, for some
reason unknown and unexplained, saw fit to refuse him the
gratification he had desired in knowing the individual to
whom he would resign the charge of the Church on his
demise, by withholding from the assistant the right of suc-
cession, and reserving to itself the power of electing a suc-
T
\
\
226 MEMOI OF THE LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE.
cesser to the Diocesa • Bishop after his decease. This re-
striction was so unacct, otable to the General Convention of
1829, that, although n) objection was made to the charac-
ter and qualifications 9 the Bishop elect, the House of
Clerical and Lay Depu .s were far from being unanimous
in signing the requiri : testimonials, and the House of
Bishops, before proce, -ding to the consecration, entered
their protest against the principle involved in the restric-
tion as of dangerous tendency, and expressed the confident
hope and belief that the Virginia Convention, even if the
legality of their act in this particular should be conceded,
would rescind it, from regard for the purity of the Epis-
copate and the harmony of the Church. This hope was
not disappointed. The Virginia Convention of 1830, by
a large majority removed the objectionable restriction,
and cordially approved of the canon adopted in General
Convention of the preceding year, prescribing the circum-
stances under which assistant Bishops may be elected, de-
fining their duties, and securing to them, in all cases, the
right of succession to their diocesans, should they survive
them.
This result was highly gratifying to Bishop Moore. He
now not only had the pleasure of sharing his arduous duties
with a faithful assistant, but enjoyed the additional happi-
ness of knowing that, whenever it should please Providence
to take him to his rest, the charge of his *' peaceful and
quiet Diocese" would devolve upon one who was worthy
of confidence and love.
CHAPTER VI.
From 1829 to 1841.
The expediency of having Assistant Bishops. Canonical restrictions as
to their election, growing out of the case of Virginia. Bishop Moore's
letter expressing his gratification at the election of Bishop Meade. A
valuable relief to him. Performs Episcopal duties in Maryland. Con-
servative influences in the Church. Assisted at the consecration of Bishop
Stone and preached on the occasion. His continued delight in Associa-
tions and Revivals. Recommendation of weekly fT erings. Inadequate
support of the clergy. Missionary efforts recommended. His zeal for
the Church, and readiness to defend it. Letters of condolence. Prayer
for an inquirer after truth. His ardent love for his children. Specimens
of his domestic correspondence. His opinion of the " Tracts for the Times."
Was he a High or Low Churchman 1 He did all in a spirit of prayer.
His love for the meetings of the Virginia Convention, and farewell addresses
at their close. His frequent excursions. Visit to Baltimore in the fall of
1839, and again in 1840, to assist in the consecration of Bishop Whitting-
ham. His visit to Westchester, Pa., in August, 1841. Attendance at the
General Convention. Strong testimony in reference to Foreign Mission-
ary Bishops. Visitation to Lynchburg — statement of his last illness and
death. The monument erected over his remains. Sketch of his character.
Conclusion.
The question of the expediency of having such officers in
the Church as Assistant, or Suffragan Bishops, is one at-
tended with great difficulties. The General Convention
was actuated by a wise and prudential regard for the quiet
and prosperity of our dioceses, in prohibiting the appoint-
ment of Suffragan Bishops, and in restricting the privilege
of electing an Assistant Bishop to those cases of great ne-
cessity, when the " old age, or other permanent cause of
228 MEMOIR OF THE
infirmity," renders the Bishop of the diocese " unable to
discharge his Episcopal duties;" in requiring the assist-
ant to confine himself to the " performance of such Episco-
pal duties and to the exercise of such Episcopal authority
as the Bishop shall assign him — except the inability of the
Bishop to make such assignment shall be declared by the
Convention;" and in declaring that there "shall never be
more than one Assistant Bishop in a Diocese at the same
time."
In the absence of such rigid legislation on the subject,
we might conceive of a variety of evils and disorders that
would arise from the allowance of this description of offi-
cers in the Church. To say nothing of those which might
result from the vaulting ambition of assistants, (and we
must remember that human nature, in its best estate, is ex-
ceedingly corrupt, and that no elevation, even in ecclesias-
tical office and dignity, affords exemption from its common
infirmities and passions ;) we might naturally expect that
the Senior Bishop would look with a feeling of jealousy
and distrust upon the rising honours and influence of his
junior associate, fearing that his own would decrease ex-
actly in proportion as those of the other increased : that
the more active " overseer" would receive all the credit
of the prosperity and good that might be achieved by their
joint superintendence and labours ; that his lustre would
be extinguished before the brightness of the culminating
star which had more recently arisen ; till at length, shorn
of every thing which constitutes the true glory of his office,
he would be pitied as an imbecile who had outlived his use-
fulness, rather than venerated and beloved, as one entitled
to peculiar honours, because his energies had been worn
out in a life of self-denial and toil for the Church of God.
We are happy to say, however, that there was no ground
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 229
afforded for the exercise of jealousy or unkind feeling be-
tween the two Bishops of Virginia. Bishop Moore was
ever ready to acknowledge that his relations with his as-
sistant were such as enabled him to say, as Paul did of
Timothy, " like a son he hath served with me in the Gos-
pel." Bishop Meade also declared, in his address to the
Convention next succeeding the death of the Senior Bishop,
that not the slightest difference had ever arisen between
them ; but their joint official duties had been prosecuted
with the utmost harmony, confidence, and affection.
The feelings of Bishop Moore, in relation to his assistant,
may be inferred from the following extract from one of his
letters, in answer to a correspondent who had, probably,
desired an expression of his opinion on the subject of the
election which had then recently been made, and also sug-
gested that he should publish a narrative of the success
which had attended his labours in the Episcopate.
TO REV. DR. , 0\ THE ELECTION OF BISHOP MEADE.
July 6, 1829.
" Rev. and dear Sir, — Your favour of the 24th ult. was
duly received, but, in consequence of my absence from
home, T have not had it in my power to reply to its con-
tents at an earlier period. The election of Dr. Meade to
the Episcopate produced in my mind all that satisfaction
connected with so favourite a measure ; and I trust that
his labours will be abundantly blessed to this diocese in par-
ticular, and to the Church in general. Providence has, I
conceive, marked him out for the office; and the unani-
mous vote of the Convention must have been truly grate-
t2
230 MEMOIE OF THE
ful to his mind. I have no fears either in relation to his cou-
secration,or his succession as diocesan Bishop. For me to pub-
hsh at this moment a view of the state of the Church, such
as the circumstances of her prosperity would justify, would,
in my opinion, savour too much of egotism, and subject me
to unkind remarks. Such a work, if ever executed, should
be drawn up by some other person ; it would obtain more
credence, and save me from the charge of religious pride.
I can truly say that it has been my wish to walk humbly
with those connected with me, and, if in any instance T
have departed from that principle, aberration has arisen
from a defect in judgment, and from no wish to be assuming.
I have arrived, my dear Sir, at such an advanced time of
life, that I have few worldly wishes to gratify, and it is my
desire to fall into the grave with the love and benediction
of the diocese I have served. The belief that one affec-
tionate tear, from the eye of any of my clergy, would fall
on my tomb, would be more grateful to my heart, than ten
thousand constrained expressions of regard. * * # *"
The consecration of Dr. Meade, which took place in
August, 1829, was an event which relieved the Diocesan
Bishop from the most painful and laborious part of his
itinerating duties, and afforded him a degree of repose from
the pressure of responsibility and toil, grateful and ne-
cessary to one of his advanced years, and one so often
afflicted with severe bodily sufferings. There was, how-
ever, no desire on his part to relinquish the exercise of his
Episcopal functions, or to shrink from the discharge of any
duty which it was in his power to perform. From the
period of his consecration, the chief burden of visitation
fell upon the Assistant; but the Diocesan, with unabated
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 231
zeal and energy, continued to visit those parishes which
were easy of access, and to perform many acts which con-
tributed to the salvation of souls, and the welfare of the
Church.
During the vacancy in the Episcopate of Maryland,
from the year 1827 to 1830, he kindly consented, in com-
pliance with the request of the Standing Committee, to
perform such Episcopal acts in that sister diocese, as the
the clergy and vestries of the respective parishes might
desire of him. The greater part of those acts desired by
the parishes on the Western Shore, were performed by his
Assistant Bishop ; as those desired in the parishes on the
Eastern Shore of the Bishop of Pennsylvania, were by the
Assistant Bishop of that diocese. The Diocesan of Vir-
ginia, however, officiated personally on one occasion — the
consecration of Trinity Church, Washington ; as did the
Diocesan of Pennsylvania, in presiding at the trial of Dr.
Clowes ; and both those venerable men favoured us with
their presence on the joyful occasion of the termination of
the protracted strife in the Church of Maryland, at the
consecration of Dr. Stone, in Baltimore, October 21, 1830.
Bishop White acted as chief consecrator, and Bishop Moore
preached an appropriate sermon. It was an occasion of
warm congratulation to the diocese and to the Church at
large; and never did the preacher appear more in his ele-
ment, than in pouring forth the full feelings of his grateful
heart for God's goodness, in inclining the two parties in the
diocese, of nearly equal strength and numbers, to sacrifice
their long cherished partialities on the altar of charity, and
unite in selecting as their Bishop, one who, though unknown
to fame, had, in his retired position, adorned the Gospel by
a life of faith and holiness, and by the exemplary discharge
of his duties as Rector of a country parish, proved himself
232 MEMOIR OF THE
to be a simple-hearted, faithful minister of the cross. Those
who were present at that joyful season, will not soon forget
the sweet strains of melting tenderness — like those of the
disciple whom Jesus loved — in which the aged preacher
exhorted those who are members of the same household to
maintain the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace,
and in righteousness of life.
The perfect unanimity which characterized that Epis-
copal election, after the peace of the diocese had been dis-
turbed by a three years' contest, is one of the many
instances recorded in our ecclesiastical annals, of the con-
servative power of Church principles; and which afford
ground for the belief that our communion can never be
forced to present, for any great length of time, the aspect
of "a house divided against itself" Any conflict arising
out of difference of opinion, vthich may exist for a season,
will be brought to an end, by a general disposition to rally
around certain great fundamental principles which we hold
in common, as of far more elevated importance than any
matters of private opinion. And those differences which
may arise out of partialities for particular men, will be
reconciled by a willingness to sacrifice the regards of per-
sonal friendship for the sake of promoting general harmony.
There are men to be found, who, if they be destitute of
those peculiar qualities which excite the enthusiastic sup-
port of partizans, are possessed of those moral qualifications
for office, which, in combination with sound sense, and ju-
dicious moderation, command the respect and confidence
of all.
The increasing age and infirmities of the subject of this
Memoir had no influence, apparently, in abating the ardour
of his zeal, or in lessening his spiritual enjoyment in the
service of God. At times, even after he had passed the
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOUE. 233
limit of three score years and ten, he preached with as
much pathos and power, manifested the same deep interest
and engagedness amidst the hallowed scenes connected
with a revival of religion, and was as prompt in the sug-
gestion and execution of measures for the advancement of
truth and godliness, as ever. We had the pleasure of
spending a few days of active public duty in his company
and that of other beloved friends in the ministry, in the
summer of 1831, at Alexandria, D. C, and we may safely
say, that his services were, on that occasion, as interesting
and effective as we had ever known them to be, even in
the vigour of his health, and the meridian of his manhood.
Of that delightful " season of refreshing from the presence
of the Lord," he thus spoke in his address to the Virginia
Convention in 1832. "I then embarked for Alexandria,
at which place we held an association. On that occasion
we were joined by a number of the clergy of this Diocese
and of Maryland, and were assisted in our labours by the
Rev. Dr. Henshaw, and the Rev. Mr. Johns, of Baltimore,
and Rev. Dr. Bedell, of Philadelphia. To say that our
meeting at that time was instructive and agreeable, would
be expressing myself in language too faint for the occasion.
A spirit of great zeal and fervour and devotion appeared
to animate every bosom, the congregations were deeply
solemn and attentive, and overflowing; many were awak-
ened to the consideration of eternal things, and openly
avowed their love and gratitude to the Almighty. It would
rejoice my heart, brethren, to witness a similar evidence of
divine influence in every parish in the Diocese. As a proof
of the devotional feeling which prevailed, more especially
among the young, I with pleasure announce to the Con-
vention, that I confirmed, during my visit, upwards of
ninety persons."
234 MEMOIE OF THE
While the Bishop richly enjoyed such seasons himself,
he was sincerely desirous that others might be sharers in
the benefit. That the spiritual exercises connected with
them, was what gave to the Virginia Conventions their
chief attraction in his eyes, and that he desired the presence
and assistance of his brethren on those occasions that
(partly at least.) while * watering others they might be
watered also themselves,' is manifest from the following
letter to Bishop Ravenscroft.
March 19th, 1828.
Rt. Rev. and Dear Sir, — The last meeting of our Con-
vention in Fredericksburg was one of the most interesting
that I have ever witnessed. It was thought that there
were at least 1200 visiters in that place on that occasion,
and those visiters, people of the first distinction in our
country. [ look forward to our contemplated meeting in
Petersburg with hope, and should it please God to bless us
with such a sense of his presence as was enjoyed in Fred-
ericksburg, it will meet the most sincere expression of grati-
tude. It would afford me the greatest satisfaction, could
you make it convenient to visit Petersburg at that time ;
and I have no doubt all your old friends would be pleased
to see you also. V'ou once delighted to be with us, and it
is my belief, you would be delighted again; for if I know
you, and I think I do, you are not adverse to the most ar-
dent expression of devotion. I am now an old man, and
cannot be far distant from that country to which we are
all hastening, and as I believe we shall experience no cold-
ness in heaven, I do not see why the Church below should
not taste a little of that joy of which we hope to partake
in another, and a belter world. You must perceive that I
am now addressing you as I formerly did, when you resided
LIFE or BISHOP HOOKE. 236
in Virginia ; and, should the friendly expression 1 use touch
that chord of affection which used to beat in perfect uni-
son with my own feelings, you will not be offended with me.
I love order, I love the Liturgy of the Church with all the
powers of my heart, but am of opinion that our services,
instead of producing formality, are calculated to make us
feel, and rejoice, and give thanks.
Your affectionate
Friend and brother,
Richard Channing Moore.
Bishop RAVEifscROFT.
At every succeeding Convention he had the pleasure of
learning, from the parochial reports, that the progress of
the Church was still onward, and that, by God's blessing
upon the Seminary, the number of faithful and devoted
ministers was constantly increasing. Of the fifty-six cler-
gymen belonging to the diocese in 1833, no less than forty-
four had received the sacred commission through the im-
position of his hands ; and, it is probable, that of nearly
double the number, who were subject to his Episcopal juris-
diction at the time of his death, an equally large propor-
tion had been ordained by him.
In his stated addresses to the Convention, from year to
year, we find him generally employing the language of con-
gratulation and encouragement. With a united clergy and
a prosperous diocese, he seldom had occasion to speak in
terms of censure or reproof; but he sometimes found it
necessary to " stir up the pure minds" of his brethren by
way of remembrance — to invite them to greater zeal in
the service of the Lord — to higher liberality in sustaining
the institutions of the Gospel, and to greater energy in all
the departments of well-doing. For example, in his Con-
236 MEMOIR OF THE
ventional address of 183(3, he distinctly recognized the im-
portant ; but much neglected duty of systematic charity,
places it upon the ground of apostolic precept and example,
and earnestly exhorts every Churchman in Virginia to lay
aside, on the first day of the week, a portion of his earn-
ings or receipts, " as the Lord hath prospered him," to be
sacredly devoted to the great cause of Christian benevo-
lence.
We rejoice that several of our younger Bishops have
taken the same ground, and boldly advocate the " weekly
offerings unto the Lord," as a substitute for the irregular
and spasmodic contributions made under the excitement of
particular occasions heretofore relied on for sustaining the
benevolent operationsjof the Church. We are satisfied that
in this, as well as every other matter of Christian obliga-
tion, the apostolic model is the only one worthy of imita-
tion. The plan of regular, systematic, weekly contribu-
tions in the Church, where our prayers and our alms may
go up together as a memorial before God, contains in itself
the proper exhibition of the true principle of Christian
charity. If this plan should be universally adopted, as we
trust in God it may be, the sacred gifts of faith and love
would be abundantly compensated in the increased bestow-
ment of spiritual blessings from on high. God, in confor-
mity to his sure promise, would open the windows of hea-
ven, and pour out upon us a blessing till there should not be
room enough to contain it : Christians would realize, in
their increase of religious joy, that " it is more blessed to
give than to receive ;" the Church would cease to be pre-
sented in the degrading attitude of a beggar ; and her trea-
sury, steadily replenished by the beneficent gifts of her chil-
dren, would overflow, and pour a constant stream of bless-
ings upon the world. With the revival of primitive charity,
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 237
we should behold a revival of primitive godliness, and of
primitive expansion.
In connexion with the above topic, and as affording a
powerful argument for the enforcement of the duty, the
Bishop referred in strong terms to the inadequate provi-
sion made for the support of the clergy. If Virginia
has ever been, in reference to this matter, sarcastically-
spoken of as " the land of promise," it is to be hoped that
whatever is reproachful in the epithet her sons will endea-
vour to wipe off, by making it also the land of performance.
Well would it be if the parishes and vestries of other dio-
ceses would give heed to those wise and timely counsels of
the departed father which were the result of long expe-
rience and wide extended observation.
" The Convention must be sensible that in the plea which
I now offer in behalf of the clergy, I am not pleading for
a support unreasonable and extravagant. I ask only for a
sufficiency to enable them to live in comfort. I ask not for
any of the luxuries of life. I am only soliciting for a provision
which will enable their children to appear in the society
in which they move, decently habited, and properly in-
structed. Should the minds of any of the people of our
charge be impressed with the idea that this is already the
situation of the clergy embraced in the proposal, a journey
through some of our parishes would convince them of their
mistake. On a late tour through an extensive district of
this diocese, I met with an instance of extreme penury in
the case of a truly pious, well educated, and excellent
clergyman belonging to our communion. Patient under
his sufferings, humble as a little child, he poured no com-
plaint whatever in my ears: but, being told by a wealthy
and humane neighbour of his wants, I was surprised at the
fortitude he manifested, and the silence he had observed,
238 MEMOIR OF THE
and when, returning to my home, I mentioned his situation
to some ladies of my congregation, they, moved by those
feeHngs of compassion peculiar to their sex, promptly sent
him some temporary assistance.
" As a proof of the benefits which may be reasonably ex-
pected from the adoption and prosecution of the measure
submitted to your consideration, I think it my duty to pre-
sent to your view the former low condition and the present
prosperous state of the Church in my native diocese.
"At my admission to deacons' orders, forty-eight years
ago, I constituted the sixth or seventh clergyman in that
diocese — a diocese which now numbers two hundred la-
bourers in the vineyard of the Lord. The means to which
that astonishing increase may be chiefly attributed, is that
unremitting attention they have paid to the sustenance of
the clergy in their new parishes, hy relief from their 'mis-
sionary fund.
" By pursuing, my brethren, the same course, we may
expect similar results; and, should my valued Assistant in
the Episcopate live to my present age, he may look for a
similar increase in the clergy of this diocese, and behold,
in congregations now in a state of infancy, assemblies both
strong and numerous; and in others, which I trust will be
planted by his hand, he will, with joy of heart, behold them
growing into manhood, worshipping the God of their Fa-
thers with the same form of sound words with which they
worshipped him, and training up their children in the use
of that Liturgy which distinguishes our Zion — a Liturgy
which will defend her from heresy and schism, and secure
obedience to the faith once delivered to the saints."
Among the means which may be most successfully em-
ployed in the extension of the Church, that whicli holds a
rank next in importance to the services of living missiona-
ries, is the circulation of her forms of worship and stand-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 239
ards of doctrine, and of such publications as are explana-
tory and vindicative of both. Accordingly the Bishop
renewedly called the attention of the diocese to the im-
portant claims of the Prayer Book and Tract Society,
recommended the formation of auxiliaries to it in all the
parishes, and earnestly exhorted the members of the Church
to greater zeal and energy in the support of that interest-
ing institution.
Another important topic, referred to by him at the same
Convention, was the conduct of the Soiither7i Churchman,
a Hebdomadal paper, edited by one of the clergy, and in-
tended to sustain the interests of religion in the Church.
The charitable tone of the paper is spoken of in terms of
warm commendation, and the advice is strenuously given
that there may be no change in this respect ; but, that it
may continue to speak the truth in love : and that, while
its editor would " feel himself bound to inculcate and faith-
fully to guard the distinctive principles of the Protestant
Episcopal Church," he should do so without wantonly assail-
ing the principles or the prejudices of other Christian com-
munities, and "avoid controversy when controversy can
possibly be avoided."
If this " godly counsel" were followed by the editors of
all similar publications, it would no longer be a question
whether the religious periodical press be a blessing or a
curse. Then, instead of being the arena where ecclesias- \
tical gladiators display their skill and their malice, in fierce
attempts to hack each other in pieces, for the amusement
of a wicked world — it might prove, what it ought to be, a
valuable auxiliary to the Gospel : not only a radiating point
of light, but an instrument of extending the dominion of
holiness and peace among all Christian people.
But though Bishop Moore's tender and loving heart
240 BIE5I0IR OF THE
shrunk back, with instinctive dread, fronn the asperities of
controversy and " the strife of tongues" or pens — and he
was determined to connply with the Apostolic precept, " if
it be possible, as nrauch as lieth in you, live peaceably with
all men," — still he would not tamely look on, and see the
cause of truth suffer for want of vindication, nor allow the
Church of his affections to be rudely assailed and misre-
presented, without offering to speak a word in her defence.
A pleasing proof of this was afforded, when a proposal was
made, in " the Family Visiter," a Richmond paper, to pub-
lish a series of articles, which would be likely to conflict
with some cherished principles of Episcopalians. The pro-
posal drew forth the following communication to the editor
of that paper, and had the effect of frustrating the design.
Letter written upon seeing a paragraph in the Family
Visiter, signed " Historicus," proposing to give a history of
the Christian Church, from its commencement to the present
century :
To call in question the intention of " Ilistoricus" is not
my wish, as I believe himpcrfectly sincere in the views he
entertains of the integrity of his own Church: but as indi-
viduals of other denominations may be equally sincere with
himself, and as firmly established in the truth of their prin-
ciples, he cannot for a moment suppose that they will be
satisfied should you permit him to occupy exclusively the
pages of your paper. If I am not mistaken, it was the
opinion of a person, a few years since, with whom " Histori-
cus" is perhaps acquainted, that it is best for Christians, on
points not involving their salvation, to agree to disagree:
and I am also mistaken if the same person did not pro-
nounce, " Wo to the man who should commence the work
of discord." If the respectable individual alluded to was
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 241
correct in his disapprobation of controversy at the time in
which he wrote, I do not see the necessity of departing
from the principle he laid down at the present moment. If
" Historicus," however, is determined to engage in the work,
I hope it will be remembered that it was commenced by
himself; and should the controversy, instead of producing
beneficial effects, prove prejudicial to the peace of society,
that he will acknowledge himself the author of all the
confusion which may ensue, and not charge the consequences
to those who act upon the defensive. As " Historicus" pro-
mises to fill two columns in your paper every week for
twelve months, it follows of course that he is a man of un-
common leisure ; but is it not possible todevote his time to
some more useful and benevolent purpose 1 Will not the
subject in question call up the angry passions of our nature,
and will it not separate those who are now living in har-
mony ? Will it not create divisions among Christians who
are walking in fellowship and love ?
As it respects myself, Messrs. Editors, 1 am no contro-
versialist. I have avoided it on many occasions, in which
others might, perhaps, have thought it their duty to have
insisted upon their peculiar views; but, sensible of those
differences of opinion which exist, my religious feelings
have enjoined silence upon me, and influenced me to pur-
sue that course which makes for peace. Senex.
Editors of the Family Visiter.
Happy would it be for the Christian world if those whose
opinions are entitled to weight from their station and years,
were always thus ready to interpose, and exert their influ-
ence to prevent the beginning of strife.
The good Bishop was eminently qualified, by his affec-
tionate and sympathizing heart, bv his deep Christian ex-
U.2
242 MEMOIR OF THE
perience, and by his intimate acquaintance with human
nature, under all the vicissitudes to which it is Hable in this
state of earthly being, to speak a word of encouragement
to the weary, of direction to the inquirer, and of consola-
tion to the afflicted. The following letters of advice and
condolence are spread upon these pages, in the belief, that
such effusions of wisdom and piety cannot fail to afford
pleasure and edification to the reader.
HIS ZEAL FOR THE CHURCH A LETTER TO MISS .
April 22, 1824.
Dear Miss, — The situation of the Church in H
County has very much engaged my attention ; and when
the abiUty of the people to support a minister of our deno-
mination has presented itself to my mind, I have been
obliged to consider their destitute state their fault, rather
than their misfortune. We are sometimes induced to sup-
pose that money contributed to the support of the gospel, as
it produces no pecuniary returns, is money thrown away;
whereas, could the subject be viewed through a proper
medium, it would appear evident that property thus be-
stowed, is property laid out to the greatest possible advan-
tage. Were we to inquire from what source have we
derived our wealth, and who it is that blesses us with health,
and capacity to enjoy it? Our hearts would reply — we
derive our blessings from God ; and it is to him that we
are indebted for all the comfort with which we are sur-
rounded. This being the case, should we not consider it a
privilege to make some little return to that kind benefactor
who crowns us with so many blessings ? The consideration
owever, deserving our attention, is the concern of eternity.
LIFE OF BISHOP BIOORE.
243
We are stewards, and must give an account of that
stewardship. We and our children possess immortal
spirits; and as those spirits are to be trained up for eternal
joys, it is our duty to provide ourselves, and them, with
such instructions as will qualify them for the enjoyment of
the God of our salvation. Few things have so beneficia
an effect upon society, as the regular observance of the
Lord's day. The duties peculiar to the Sabbath are cal-
culated to call home our wandering thoughts, and to lead
the mind to reflect upon death — the grave — eternity.
However lightly we may think of religion, still there is no
parent whose bosom would not beat with joy at the tri-
umphant departure of a child; and no child of reflection
whose bosom would not glow with rapture at discovering
a beloved parent dying in the sure expectation of eternal
felicity. To experience such happiness, we must enlist
under the banner of Christ Jesus, and practise the duties
he has prescribed for our observance: " not every one that
saith Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven,
but he that doeth the loilloi my father which is in heaven."
A vain faith in the Lord Jesus will profit us nothing; we
must be actively engaged in duty ; for faith, without works,
is dead, being alone. It is impossible that a parent can
devote a portion of his income to better purpose than in
advancing the cause of the Gospel. The morals of his
children will receive a favourable bias from the wholesome
instructions of the sanctuary. The remen;brance of God
will be kept alive by the service of the Church, and so-
ciety will feel and bend to its effects. Your communica-
tion, so far from being considered obtrusive, has produced
in my mind the greatest satisfaction. I am rejoiced to
perceive that God has not left himself without a witness in
H , and that the cause of our merciful Redeemer pos-
244 MEMOIR OF THE
sesses so warm, so able, and so faithful an advocate. Go
on, Miss C , go on ! and nnay the Lord Jesus Christ
bless your endeavours, and render you an instrunnent of
advancing the cause of his Church. You will find, I have
no doubt, willing coadjutors in some of your companions.
Unite your efforts; put forth all your strength; infuse into
the minds of your young acquaintances the same desires
which warm your heart. Pray earnestly — pray for divine
assistance; and rely upon it, God will sanctify your exer-
tions ; and of this grain of mustard-seed, form a tree, under
the umbrage of which your friends may sit with delight,
and find the fruit sweet to their taste."
OF CO.VDOLENCE.
Richmond, July 25lh, 1S32.
Very Dear Sir, — I was informed yesterday of the sud-
den and unexpected death of your late amiable and ex-
cellent wife; and most sincerely do I sympathize with you
and your children on the melancholy occasion. When in
N , during the niglit of the 16th inst., upon my inquir-
ing in relation to the health of yourself and household, I
was assured that you were all well ; and left under the im-
pression, that upon the next visit I should meet you all in
health, and again form one of your happy family circle.
But events have given us another evidence that man in-
deed " Cometh up, and is cut down like a flower ; he fleeth
as it were a shadow, and never continueth in one stay."
In that bitter cup of adversity with which it has pleased
the Almighty to visit you, there is a mixture of consolation;
and though you cannot but grieve, still you sorrow not as
those without hope. The mind of your departed friend
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 245
was deeply impressed with gratitude to God for his mercies
both temporal and spiritual. The Saviour formed the rock
of her dependence ; and to do good, and to distribute to her
fellow-mortals, out of the abundance she possessed, consti-
tuted one of her chief enjoyments. The sincerity of her
religious professions, no one who knew her could for a mo-
ment doubt; her unusual frankness of disposition; the urba-
nity of her manners ; her hospitality ; and the affection
which f always received at her hands, had given her a
place in my bosom, which I cannot find language to ex-
press; and should I be permitted to visit N , I shall
find a chasm in the circle of my friends, which very few,
if any, can perfectly fill. Her house was my home; and the
pillow on which I rested my head was always softened by
her tenderness and filial regard. Tell your dear children
that I deeply feel their bereavement, and sincerely pray
that their afi[liction, under which they mourn, may be so
sanctified by God's grace, that it may wean them from
an undue attachment to the world, and may work for them
a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Tell
them that their mother's happy spirit bids them to lookup-
ward, and calls them to set their afiectionson things above.
That the Almighty may take you, my beloved, and your
children, in his holy keeping, is the devout supplication of
Your sincere friend and Pastor,
R. C. MooRE.
TO WILLIAM M .
Oct. 29th, 1823.
My Dear Sir, — It was during the alarming illness of my
beloved F , that I heard of the death of your dear
246 MEMOIR OF THE
daughter, or you would have immediately received the
assurance of my sympathy and condolence. Adversity is
the lot of human nature, and had it pleased the Almighty
to spare your child, she must have inherited, in common
with us all, a share in the distresses incident to our state.
Is it not, therefore, a happiness to know tiiat she is placed
beyond the reach of trouble ; and that sorrow and she have
shaken hands for ever 1 Could we draw aside the curtain,
and witness the felicity of those who have entered into
bliss; instead of giving place to grief, our bosoms would be
dilated with joy ; and upon the knee of gratitude, we should
thank the Almighty for releasing our children from distress,
and giving them a seat at his right hand. The Lord Jesus,
when speaking of children, has said, " Of such is the king-
dom of heaven." Oh! be satisfied, my dear M , with
the dealings of your heavenly Father, and let the assu-
rance of your child's happiness dry up your tears, and heal
your broken heart. Her spirit will be among the first to
meet you on the shores of Zion ; and when she sees her
parents ascending in the chariot of immortality, her heart
will vibrate with pleasure ; she will bid you welcome
to the i-ealms of bliss. Her departure contains a call, to
all her friends, from their God and Saviour: "Be ye also
ready," is the admonition it conveys. Give my love to
Mrs. M , and believe me, what I have ever been since
I first knew you,
Your sincere friend and grateful Pastor,
R. C. MoORE.
P. S. Your son intimated to me it was your wish I
should perform the last solemnities for your child. Should
such be the case, you have only to express it, and f will
hasten to discharge the duty, and to visit your parish.
R. C. Moore.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 247
TO THE SAME.
January 31st, 1824.
My Dear Sir, — Your communication by your son came
duly to hand ; for which, as well as for the present he con-
veyed to me, I must entreat you to accept my most sincere
thanks. Your former liberality was considered by me as an
ample remuneration for my services ; so that the last dona-
tion was entirely unexpected and unlocked for. I am fully
of opinion, my beloved Mr. M , that a regard for your
health, and the preservation of your life for the benefit of
your family, renders it necessary that you should leave
your retirement, and make a visit to your friends in Rich-
mond. The mind is as liable to indisposition as the body ;
and as you would conceive it your duty to apply remedies
for the removal of bodily disease, so you must acknowledge
it equally a duty to succour and relieve the mind, by the
adoption of such remedies as are applicable to its condition.
I know what mental suffering is, and I can assure you from
experience, that there is nothingso well calculated to abate
the pangs of distress as the conversation of those who can
both feel and sympathize with us. The mind sometimes
becomes so oppressed that it loses its elasticity, and repre-
sents objects to our view through a jaundiced medium ;
under such a state of things we are apt to consider our-
selves the subject of sorrows so peculiar as to shut out from
our view every thing like hope; when in fact no distress
hath assailed us, but such as is common to man. We live
to make our children happy, and when we think their hap-
piness is secured, we feel contented. Now, my friend,
however pleasing the prospects of your surviving children
may be, and however great the happiness is which they
248 MEMOIR OF THE
enjoy, yet you must acknowledge that their felicity bears
no comparison whatever with the happiness of your de-
parted daughter. The enjoyments of which they partake
are subject to diminution and change; whereas the enjoy-
ment of your angel child is as firmly fixed as the everlast-
ing hills. She rests from all the labours of life on the bosom
of the Saviour, and enjoys the light of his reconciled coun-
tenance. If turning a straw would bring my children from
above, that straw never should be turned by me, and
whatever may be your reflections now, I am sensible that,
in a little time, you will think so too. They have gone be-
fore us and anxiously await our entrance into bliss. Let
us, my beloved M , trim our lamps. The moment is
necessarily drawing near which will separate us, I trust,
from sorrow, and introduce us into bliss. God grant that
we and our dear wives and children may be prepared for
the event, and at last received into heaven, with the wel-
come salutation of " come ye blessed of my father." Give
our love to Mrs. M., and to all who think of me, and
Believe me in great truth.
Your sincere friend and Pastor,
R. C. MooRE.
TO MRS. DR. WILMER.
September 5th, 1827.
My Dear Madam, — The bereavement you have sustain-
ed constitutes a distress in which 1 sensibly participate:
and by which the Church, of which your dear husband was
so conspicuous a member, has been most severely alllicted.
Being absent from home during the time of his illness, I was
unconscious of his situation. I had heard, it is true, that he
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 249
had been seized with a chill three or four days after I left
him; but supposing that it was an attack of simple ague
and fever, I pleased myself with the idea that he had re-
tired from Williamsburg, and had taken passage with
his family to Alexandria. Under this impression I rested
satisfied, and knew nothing to the contrary until 1 was
aroused from my security by an obituary notice of his
death. Affliction, my dear friend, is the lot of mortals, and
as the departure of our connexions forms an event una-
voidable in its nature, it is our duty to submit with resigna-
tion, and to say with Eli, "It is the Lord, let him do what
seemeth him good." In the cup which the Almighty hath
given you to drink there is much consolation, and the more
highly you esteemed your departed companion for his
virtues, you must remember that those virtues rendered
him better prepared for the change through which he has
passed, and fitted him for the enjoyment of eterral felicity.
Could you witness the happiness to which he is now
exalted, much as you loved him, you would not wish him
back ; but on the contrary, would rejoice at his escape
from all trouble, and strive with renewed efforts to prepare
to meet him in a better world. These sentiments flow from
a heart alive to his value; you know the place he occupied
in my affections; the confidence I reposed in his integrity.
He was truly the man of my counsel; not a step did I take
in the concerns of the Church without asking the benefit of
his advice. We walked together as friends, and from my
knowledge of his virtues, it was my wish to have had him
connected with me in my parochial charge and to have
laboured with me in the same pulpit. His labours are now
concluded, and he is reaping a full harvest of happiness, in
the Church triumphant in heaven. It is God, who has
promised to be the husband of the widow, and the fathe
250 MEaroiR of the
of the fatherless: and as he possesses the ability as well as
the inclination to fulfil his word, to him I commend you and
your infant charge. Take your children in the arms of
prayer, and carry them to your Saviour : a mother's petition
he will hear and renderyour little family a blessing to you
and to those connected with them. That the Almighty
may place beneath you the everlasting arms of his love,
and carry your lambs in his bosom,
Is the sincere prayer of
Your affectionate friend,
R. C. Moore.
TO A YOUNG LADY.
March 5th, 1834.
My dear Child, — Your affectionate mother has received
your last communication containing a representation of the
state of your mind, flowing, as you observe, from a conscious-
ness of your ingratitude to God, and that want of conformi-
ty to his precepts, which the Almighty has a right to re-
quire of all his intelligent creatures. The state of convic-
tion, as you term it, constitutes a truth with which we must
be acquainted, before we can be disposed to correct our
errors, or change our habits.
While in the enjoyment of health, we are insensible to
the true value and importance of medical assistance; and
it is a bed of sickness alone which renders us alive to the
value of a good Physician ; such is precisely the case in
spiritual matters ; for until the Almighty, through the in-
fluence of his Holy Spirit, convinces us of our sins, and
opens to our view our departure from his commands, we
feel no disposition to ask his forgiveness; considering ourselves
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 251
whole, we require no aid superior to the powers of our own
understanding, to enable us to regulate our lives. But
when the holy law of God is presented to our view by the
light of divine grace, and we compare our past conduct
with the requisitions of that law, we become sensible that
instead of having loved him with all our heart, we have
neglected and forgotten him ; that instead of keeping his
Sabbath holy, we have devoted it to worldly purposes: that
so far from having honoured our parents, we have rebelled
against their authority: that although we have not openly
violated the other precepts, still we have not complied with
their spiritual import. When God by his Holy Spirit thus
shows us that we are sinners, our hearts become so much
alive to the danger of our condition, that we are induced to
fly to the Saviour, as our refuge from the storm of God's
displeasure, and by sincere and ardent prayer to entreat
his forgiveness, and to solicit his grace that we may love
him more and serve him more faithfully in future. It is
under such circumstances that we understand the meaning
of St. Peter who has said, " Unto you which believe he is
precious." It is then we comprehend the declaration of the
Saviour, when he said, "The whole need not a Physician,
but they who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but
sinners to repentance : The Son of Man came to seek and
to save that which was lost." There is no greater evi-
dence, my child, of the love of God, than to be convinced
of sin in general, and of our own sin in particular: and the
disposition you now evince of loving and serving your God
and Saviour, is a greater gift, than if the Almighty had left
you in a thoughtless state of mind, though he had made you
the possessor of the whole world. Look up then, I beseech
you, with perfect confidence in his mercy ; you are already
a possessor of the surest token of his favour that you could
252 MEMOIR OF THE
desire. You feel spiritually sick : and you have a Physician
both able and willing to cure your disease. He is always
at hand, never absent, and more ready to hear than you
are to pray, and at this moment extends to you the positive
assurance, and certain promise, " Him that cometh unto
me, 1 will in no wise cast out." Yes, my child, I repeat it,
look up to thai Saviour, with perfect confidence, who shed
his blood for your salvation, " who tasted death for every
man," whose blood cleanseth from all sin, and you will soon
find that " they who sow in tears, shall reap in joy." Let
me hear from you again. Lay open to my view all your
feelings, and desires, and it shall be my delight to commu-
nicate comfort to your mind; and remember that much as
your parents love you, the Lord Jesus Christ loves you
still more, aud has proved the boundless nature of his affec-
tion by shedding liis blood for your salvation.
TO A YOUiVG MAN.
February 16ih, 1835.
My young Friend, — I have received a letter from your
venerable father dated the 10th inst. in which he in-
formed me of those serious impressions which have lately
been made on your mind, and has requested me to address
you on the occasion. Could I have conversed with you
upon the subject, and been better acquainted with the ex-
ercises of mind through which you have passed, I, of course?
would have it more in my power to judge of your religious
change. The unity however which I have ever found in
the experience of all Christians will enable me to drop you
a few hints by which you will be enabled to draw some
reasonable conclusions, in relation to the variety of your
own exercises. As all men are sinners, and of course
obnoxious in their natural stale to the divine displeasure, the
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 253
first effect produced by divine grace on the mind is a con-
viction of sin. — This conviction of sin leads us to the
Almighty for forgiveness, from whom only it can beobtained.
The awakened sinner pleads for mercy through the merits
of the Saviour : the language of his heart is that of the
publican, " God be merciful to me a sinner" — and, in deep
penitence and sorrow of mind for his past offences, he flies
to the bosom of his heavenly father, and in the penetrating
accents of the Prodigal, confesses his transgressions, and
entreats for a restoration to the divine favour. Prayer,
which was once a burden, now constitutes his enjoyment :
he turns with abhorrence from all sinful practices, and his
inquiry is, *' teach me to do thy will, for thou art my God,"
or with St. Paul, "Lord what wilt thou have me to do?"
His mind being thus changed, he looks for new companions,
and instead of associating with the thoughtless, as he once
did, " he makes much of those who love the Lord." The
Bible, which contains the promises of mercy to poor offen-
ders, constitutes in his view a book preferable to all others:
" his delight is in the law of the Lord, and therein he medi-
tates day and night." He loves the house of God, and es-
teems the Sabbath his delight, and keeps it holy. A person
whose experience comprehends the above features of
character is, literally speaking, a new creature, " old things
are done away, and all things are become new." Or in other
words, he now abhors what he once loved, and now loves
what he once disliked : such as prayer, the holy Sabbath,
the sacred Scriptures, religious friends. You must permit
me to express the hope that you will not suffer your affec-
tions to be weaned from the Church of your fathers, but
that you will recollect the attachment of your ancestors,
and your parents, and numerous family, to the Episcopal
Church, and that you will throw the weight of your influence
w2
254 MEMOIR OF THE
in her scale. 1 remember when administering the Lord's
Supper to your grandmother a few years since there were
kneeling around her in her sick room upwards of thirty of
her children, and grandchildren ; and as they all belonged
to the same communion, I trust that you will find it your
duty and pleasure, at a proper time, to follow their ex-
ample, and to tread in their steps. I hope to hear from
you soon, and promise to attend with promptitude to your
letters.
Believe me, my young friend.
Yours very alTectionately,
R. C. MoORE.
To these letters the following prayer is a suitable accom-
paniment.
Prayer for an inquirer after truth ; composed for the
use of the afflicted husband of my late beloved parishioner
M. T. L.
"Almighty God, whose ways are in the deep, whose
paths are in the great waters, and whose footsteps are not
known, look down, I beseech thee, in parental tenderness,
upon thy afflicted servant ; and hasten to my relief. Hum-
bled in the dust, I lift my eyes to thee, my great Creator,
and solicit an interest in thy favour, and loving kindness.
I confess, most gracious God, that I have sinned against
heaven and in thy sight, I presume not to plead guiltless
before thee : but acknowledge that I have done things
I ought not to have done, and that I have left undone
things I ought to have done. As my maker, protector, and
provider, thou art entitled to my respect and gratitude —
still, notwithstanding the unbounded mercies I have expe-
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 255
rienced, I have neglected my duty to thee; and have been
unthankful for thy favours. Forgive me, oh, my God, all
that is past, and enable me to love thee with all my heart,
and to serve thee faithfully, in future. Oh, my God, the
heavy hand of affliction is upon me ; and my heart, and my
flesh fail me for very trouble. In thy holy word it is writ-
ten, that thou wilt make the affliction of those who love thee
work for them an exceeding great and eternal weight
of glory. Oh, fulfil thy divine promise; and sanctify the
distress under which I labour, to my present and future
comfort. Thou hast taken from me, blessed God ! the wife
of my bosom ; oh lead me by the influences of thy Spirit to
that Saviour, in whom she trusted and believed ; that I may
find rest for my poor soul. It was in the Lord Jesus that
she placed her dependence for all things necessary, both in
time and eternity : and I am a witness, heavenly Father,
that the Saviour, in whom she believed, did never leave
nor forsake her. He was her protector and her guide in
sickness and in death : Oh ! that the God and Saviour of
her for whom I mourn, may be my God and Saviour. Oh!
that the Redeemer, in whose blood she trusted for salvation,
may be my Redeemer, Come, Lord Jesus, and make me
sensible of the divinity of thy character. May the holy
precepts which thou didst teach convince me that thou
art the Son of God. May the life of sorrow thou didst lead
on earth convince me of thy sincerity. May the affection
thou didst manifest to man attach me to thy cross, and
may the blood thou didst shed on Calvary wash me from
all my sins. " Lord 1 believe, help thou my unbelief"
Come, Lord Jesus : oh, come quickly, and bring life and im-
mortality to light in my heart. I ask these mercies, oh,
God ! for Jesus Christ's sake. — Amen.
256 MEMOIR OF THE
The increasing age and infirnnities of the Bishop, while
they imposed upon him the necessity of gradually reHn-
quishing the oversight of distant portions of his diocese, to
which no access could be had except by the ordinary
modes of travelling in Virginia — in carriages or on horse-
back — the fatigues of which he could not endure ; and while
they consequently restricted his ability to engage exten-
sively in public duties, were, nevertheless, attended with a
solace which was peculiarly grateful to his mind. His was
a nature thoroughly adapted to the enjoyment of domestic
happiness; and the infirmities which cut him oft' from his
accustomed intercourse with the scattered members of his
ecclesiastical household secured to him the loved privilege
of more prolonged and endeared intercourse with the mem-
bers of the family circle which gathered around his fire-
side at home.
We have before noticed the strength and tenderness of
his affection for his children — an affection which began at
their birth, increased with their growth through the periods
of infancy and childhood, and not only prompted to the most
diligent efforts for the advancement of their temporal wel-
fare and spiritual improvement in the days of their youth,
but followed them, with all the yearnings of parental solici-
tude, through all the future stages of their being. Never
was there a brighter example of a father's watchful care
and persevering endeavours for the temporal and spiri-
tual good of his children. Never, perhaps, was there
an instance in which such care and endeavours were
followed with greater success. Of the children who sur-
vive him, two are faithful and acceptable ministers of the
Gospel in the Church; and all the rest, it is believed, are
communicants at her altars. It would be gratifying to
know precisely the course of advice, instruction, and dis-
LIFE OP BISHOP MOORE. 257
cipline, by which, through God's blessing, such a happy
result had been secured. And although there is much in
the freedom and familiarity of domestic correspondence
which should not needlessly be exposed to the public gaze,
yet we hope that good may be done to Christian families
by the publication of the following letters, addressed to his
children at diiferent times, and on various occasions.
There may be found in them some development of those
plans and principles of parental guidance which led a
numerous family to choose the paths of wisdom and piety.
TO HIS ELDEST SON, SOON AFTER LEAVING HOME TO ENGAGE IN
MERCANTILE PURSUITS, IN NEW YORK, THEN IN HIS THIR-
TEENTH YEAR.
Staten Island, January 12th, 1801.
My Dear Son, — I duly received your favour of the 8th,
and was pleased with the connexion of your statements,
and the neatness of your letter ; it convinced me that you
had been attentive to the composition, and were desirous
to gratify the wishes of a father who sincerely loves you.
Go on, my child, in the diligent pursuit of your duties; be
faithful to the interests of Mr. B— , and endeavour to fit
yourself for the discharge of all your engagements. It is
impossible for me to express to you how much you have it
in your power to contribute to my happiness.
Remember the affectionate care with which I have
always watched over you. You must therefore be sensible
that you share largely in my regard ; and could you read
my heart, you would see your name in characters which
can never be eflEiiced. You must be convinced that my
happiness depends very much upon your conduct; all, then,
that I desire of you in return for my tenderness, is this:
258 MEMOIR OF THE
Fear God; be grateful to your Redeemer; and let your
walk through life be marked with the most invincible in-
tegrity. Shun sin as you would pestilence ; and let nothing
escape your lips that, upon reflection, can give you pain.
Such behaviour will render you respected by all who know
you. Your conscience will always speak the language of
approbation. God will love you; and your father will be
blessed ! If you have not a Bible at command, request
Mr. B— — to procure a decent one for you. Read every
day a portion in the Old and New Testament, and endea-
vour to imprint its contents and precepts upon your mind.
Look up to God, my beloved child ; his ears are open to all ;
and the offering of a youthful heart is peculiarly agreeable
and acceptable in his sight.
I send you , of which I beg your acceptance. Let
me know your wants, and believe me
Your affectionate father,
R. C. Moore.
LETTER TO A GRANDDAUGHTER.
October 13th, 1837.
My dear H — , In reflecting on the occurrences which took
place during my late visit at the north, few, if any, have
given me more solid satisfaction than the change which I
confidently hope has been produced in your mind on the
subject of the great concern of your precious andin^mortal
soul. As it is from the Father of Lights that every good
and perfect gift proceedeth; and hearing, as I have heard
and listened to, the sincere and ardent supplications of your
dear father, in behalf of his beloved children ; and con-
scious, also, of the assurance which Heaven has given, of
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 259
an answer to sincere supplication, I take it for granted
that the change you have experienced in your views, has
arisen from the influences of that Holy Spirit which has
been so long and so fervently supplicated for his blessing on
your head.
Let, then, your grandfather cherish the hope that you
will carry into effect the good resolutions into which you
have entered, and make full proof of the sincerity of your
religious profession. Reflect, my dear child, how influen-
tial will be the example you may present to the view of
the numerous family with which you are daily surrounded ;
what infinite advantage you, and my dear C , may
prove to the little unfledged flock, in the midst of which you
are placed, and the incalculable comfort you will produce
in the bosom of your parents. Heaven, my child, has blessed
you with a mind capable of great results. Oh ! let me
entreat you to bring that mind to bear on the views and
habits of your brothers and sisters, friends and acquaint-
ances ; and may that Being who has loved you, and given
himself for you, continue to shower on you the richest
blessings of his grace, and render you an ornament to the
Church, and a source of comfort to all your connexions.
Christianity does not forbid you to combine, with the dis-
charge of your duty to God, a cheerfulness of disposition ;
indeed, in my opinion, our gratitude to the Almighty is
better evinced by a cheerful, than a gloomy habit : and I
am sure, possesses attractions better calculated to convince
the thoughtless, that " the ways of religion are pleasantness,
and her paths are paths of peace," than a course of
conduct enveloped in gloom, and expressive of continual
mortification.
Improper levity, you will remember, my dear H ,
is different from that cheerfulness of which I speak ; but
260 MEMOIR OF THE
as you possess a discriminating nnind, it would be needless
in me to dwell upon the subject, especially as it would ap-
pear to betray a suspicion of your consistency of conduct.
With so good a teacher at your side as your beloved father,
it cannot be necessary for me to point out those duties need-
ful for your daily observance ; but loving you as I do, and
anxious as I am for your present and future happiness, I
could not permit the event which has drawn from me this
letter, to pass without assuring you of the happiness it has
afforded me.
Give my love to your parents, and all the family ; and
believe me, my dear child.
Your affectionate friend and grandfather,
Richard Channing Moore.
EXTRACT FROM A LETTER WRITTEN TO HIS ELDEST SON.
February 9th, 1820.
" I am rejoiced to discover, from your late communica-
tion, that your flock are so attentive to eternal conside-
rations. I shall never forget the joyful seasons I have
experienced with the people of your charge; when from
one extreme of the parish to another, the universal cry
could be heard, " Lord, what wilt thou have us to do ?"
May the flame which has arisen continue to extend its
sacred influences, until every heart shall feel its animating
effects. As far as the prayers of a fond father, for a be-
loved son, can prove avaihng, those prayers are offered up
in your behalf. I frequently have you in my mind's eye,
and am fervently engaged in supplication to God in your
favour, entreating him to strengthen you in the discharge
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 261
of your duty, and to render your ardent efforts beneficial
to your hearers.
I shall never forget the time in which religious excite-
ment so much prevailed on the Island, that I was called
upon to preach three times the same evening, to the same
congregation. I think you were with me, and take it for
granted that you have not forgotten the circumstance. Go
on, my beloved Son, and be not weary in well-doing. A
clergyman will never lament, in a dying hour, that he has
been faithful, or that his duties have been laborious ; but
on the contrary, after he has done all that he possibly
could have done, he will feel himself to have been an un-
profitable servant. If such will be the experience of the
most faithful minister, what will be the sensations of a sloth-
ful and negligent Shepherd ?
Your affectionate father,
Richard Channing Moore.
LETTER TO A MEMBER OF HIS FAMILY.
Norfolk, June 19th, 1836.
My dear S., — I received your affectionate favour this
morning, and hasten to reply to its contents. I perceived,
of course, when I left home, that my children were not all
up to receive my parting benediction ; but being unwilling
lo draw any conclusion of an unkind description, I at-
tributed it to its proper cause, the early hour at which I
entered on my journey.
It is in the bosom of my family that I reap the most solid
comfort; and it is delightful to my heart to be enabled to
say that my children seem disposed to contribute to my
comfort by their filial attentions; and to divest my solitude
X
262 MEMOIR OF THE
of that gloom which otherwise would oppress and bear me
to the earth. Were I to complain of their inattention, I
should do them injustice : they are dutiful and affectionate,
and, when I shall be taken from them, they will reap
comfort, flowing from a conscious knowledge of the filial
kindness which distinguishes their conduct towards me.
Few families have reason to be more thankful to God for
the harmony which marks their domestic circle. I have
always loved my children with an affection of no common
order ; and it has been my study to render them happy by
gratifying all their reasonable requests; and also by making
such provision for them, as will, with prudence, render them
comfortable after my death.
This letter my children will consider as addressed to
them all ; and, if the declaration of my love will aflford
them that pleasure which I derive from the assurance of
their regard for me, they may rest satisfied that they pos-
sess a place in my affection which nothing but death can
ever etFace.
When I return from the Eastern Shore, I shall expect
another letter from some of you ; direct to J. S., Esq., Nor-
folk, and send it by the steamboat which leaves Richmond
every Wednesday and Sunday morning.
Give my sincere love to Chrissy, Eliza, and all my chil-
dren, and believe me, in great truth.
Your friend and father,
Richard Chaxnimg Moore.
P. S. Mrs. S. has desired me to say, that she was disap-
pointed in not seeing some of you. She sends her love to
you all. I hope to return to Norfolk the middle of next
week — but as the people wish me to hold a confirmation
next Sunday week, you must not expect me.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 263
LETTER TO A SOX UPOX GOING TO COLLEGE.
July 23d, 1825.
My dear Son, — I cannot think of your departure from
my parental roof without offering you that advice which
your inexperience of the world renders indispensably neces-
sary. You have arrived at a period of life replete with
dangers peculiar to itself — and, as you will be separated
from my observation, and placed beyond my immediate
care, it will be necessary for you to peruse this letter fre-
quently, that you may be enabled to act with propriety
upon all occasions ; and to shun those evils w^th which you
may be assailed. Begin and end every day with prayer
to the Almighty, to " direct you in all your doings with his
most gracious favour, and further you with his continual
help." To the observance of this duty you have always
been accustomed; being instructed while in the nursery to
supplicate the Almighty, and having continued the practice
at my own family altar. To your prayers to heaven for
direction, you must add your sincere thanks to the Almighty,
for the mercies you have enjoyed, and for those blessings
you daily obtain from his bounty. In the enumeration of
those blessings you will call to view the pious instruction
you have always received — the opportunities afforded you
in the completion of your education — the health you have
enjoyed, and the attention of your affectionate parents.
Remember that the object I have in view in placing you
at college is to fit you for the due and honorable discharge
of the duties of life. To carry into effect my design, you
must apply yourself with diligence to your studies — never
feeling satisfied with yourself until a perfect knowledge of
your stated lessons is attained. Pay the most uniform re-
264 3IEM0IE OF THE
spect to your teachers — and let them see, by your conduct,
that you have been politely bred, and that you consider
them not only as your instructors, but as your friends.
Should you ever be tempted to do wrong by any of your
young companions, resist the temptation immediately and
decidedly, and let them discover, by your private as well
as public conduct, the high sense you entertain of moral
principle. Should any of them possess a vicious turn of
mind, avoid their company — for, should you be found asso-
ciating with lads of bad principles, your reputation would
suffer, and you would certainly be considered as possessed
of the same habits and the same propensities with them-
selves. Let your particular associates be young men of
correct habits and principles, and in their society you will
be safe — thinking no evil, no evil will be practised — de-
lighting to do good, the purity of your character will be
established, and you will be respected by all who know
you, and the Almighty will surround you with his continual
presence. In all cases, whether of business or pleasure, in
which you require counsel, consult the President or one of
the professors, and, when the advice you ask is given, be
sure to follow it. Such a course will inspire them with
confidence in you, and will render your collegiate life a life
of comfort and happiness. There is no reasonable com-
fort in my power to confer that I will deny you. Re-
member, however, that comfort and extravagance are
two different things. Whatever the President considers
necessary and proper, and my circumstances will admit of,
I will most cheerfully comply wMh. Be steady in your at-
tendance on the public worship of Almighty God, and
unite with devotion in the service of the Church, always
bearing in mind that you are in the presence of the Judge
of heaven and earth. My happiness is so dependant on the
LIFE OF BISHOP 3IOORE. 265
course you may pursue, that by your misconduct my heart
would be broken, and my gray hairs brought with sorrow-
to the grave; while, on the other hand, by pursuing a vir-
tuous course of life, you will add to my enjoyment, and ren-
der my old age happy and delightful. While I live, I shall
never cease to pray for you ; and, should I never see you
again in this world, I trust, my dear child, we shall meet in
heaven. May God, in tender mercy preserve you, conduct
you in safety through life, and then receive you into glory.
Your affectionate friend
and Father,
Richard Channing Moore.
TO A SON GOING TO SEA.
Richmond, May 20th, 1816.
My dear Son, — Separated as you will be for a considera-
ble time, from the protection and guardianship of your
parents ; I have thought it my duty to afford you such
advice, as you will find, upon a compliance with its letter
and spirit, to be productive of present quiet to your mind ;
and of advantage to you in your intercourse with your
fellow creatures : and as it may be the last opportunity
which Heaven may present to my view, I entreat you to
consider it as my dying admonition, and to attend to it with
filial reverence.
Bear, I beseech you, in continual recollection that there
is a God, and that he is the rewarder of those who diligent-
ly serve him. Remember that you are always present to
his view, and that no sin can escape his observation.
Reverence therefore his holy name, and never suffer your
lips to be polluted with blasphemy or profaneness. By re-
x2
266 MEMOIR OF THE
straining from the crime, the awful crime of swearing, your
employers will respect you; and those with whom you
associate will value and esteem you. Avoid evil compan-
ions, especially such as would wish to lead you in the
paths of transgression. Suffer not your feet to be led
into the ways of uncleanness, which conduct its votaries
to ruin and destruction. Should you be tempted to depart
from the precepts of virtue, shun as you would a pestilence
the temptation; for sorrow of heart and distress of soul will
follow the commission of sin. Remember, my son, that few
of your companions have had the benefit of an education
so pious as that with which you have been blessed : God
will therefore expect more at your hands, as your oppor-
tunities in life have been great.
Never permit your companions to overcome your habits
of sobriety: for if they should at any time succeed in making
you intemperate, they will then obtain the mastery over
your virtuous resolutions, and you will fall a prey to their
seductions.
Be obedient to those in authority over you ; perform the
duties assigned you with cheerfulness and promptitude; and
be faithful to your employers.
Be kind and gentle to those who are beneath you, and
treat them always with tenderness and regard — such con-
duct will secure their obedience and their love.
Preserve a strict regard to truth ; always perform your
promises : and should you through mistake or ignorance do
wrong, honestly confess your error, and endeavour to do
right in future.
Read a portion of God's holy Word every day, and should
the thoughtless laugh at you, tell them that you have been
taught to reverence the Scriptures, and to make them your
rule of life.
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 267
Should any of your young companions possess a quarrel-
some temper, avoid associating with them, unless when duty
compels you : treat them with due respect: avoid joking
with them ; and never speak of their faults to others.
Should any of them be vicious, you must be careful how
you reprove them ; for should they be unwilling to listen to
your advice, they would consider it an insult, and treat you
with unkindness, if not with something worse.
In order to carry into effect the precepts which I have
offered for your consideration, you will stand in need of
divine assistance. Ask it then of God, my cliild, in earnest
and secret prayer. Make no public parade of religion, but
worship the God of your fathers in private, and evince in
a holy life the purity of your heart.
Whenever you may be in port, ask liberty of your
superiors to attend upon the worship of God ; and what-
ever denominations of Christians you may meet with,
behave with seriousness and with decency.
That God may guard and protect you, shall be the
prayer of your father during your absence. Farewell, my
son, and should we never meet again in this world, may we
meet in a world of bliss and glory.
I remain with great affection.
Your friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
TO A DAUGHTER.
Richmond, Va., Aug. nth, 1824.
I have set apart this morning, to address letters to several
of my connexions, upon the subject of your dear mother^s
decease.
268 MEMOIR OF THE
Although there is much to comfort me in the discharge
of this duty, still it is a painful office, as it necessarily
awakens in my recollection the most affecting associations.
In her last conversation with me, she expressed the most
ardent wish that I would press upon the consciences of
her dear children the solemn considerations of religion.
It was her last, her dying request, that they would close in
with the offers of mercy, take up the cross, and follow
Christ. Let me beseech of you, who are her first born
child, to consider the appeal of your dying mother, as the
appeal of God himself, speaking to you through her. Con-
sider of what moment it must have appeared to her, stand-
ing as she did upon the threshold of eternity, when she could
overlook for an instant her own concerns, to think of the
concerns of her children. Your life, my daughter, as far as
I have seen it, has been morally correct, oh, add to that
morality the love of God. That love I mean which will
produce in you an obedience to all the precepts of religion,
and enable you to set your affections on things above. You
have hitherto never been present at the Lord's table : re-
member that your Saviour in his last hours required of his
followers that duty. Send for your cousin T let him
read this letter, and he will find that it is my desire you
should converse with him on the occasion, and receive the
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper at his hands, the first op-
portunity. The last answer in that Catechism in which
you have been instructed contains the requisitions. If you
are sorry for past sins, believe in the Lord Jesus, intend to
live devoted to him in future, and are in charity with all
men, you may approach without a fear, and rely upon the
God you serve for the communications of his grace. Think
deeply, my child, and act firmly.
Your mother's death-bed furnished all around it with a
IIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 269
lesson of great instruction ; her mind was perfectly collected,
and perfectly calm; she had no doubt of her future happi-
ness ; she declared that death itself had no terrors; and
a few moments before she expired, she raised her eyes to
heaven, and exclaimed, " Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly."
May the Almighty grant that all my children may live
righteous lives; and that their last end may be as tranquil
as her's. I can ask for no greater blessing whatever.
Give my love to Mr. , and entreat him to consider my
advice to you equally applicable to himself Give my love
also to T , and family, and to Mrs. E , and daughter,
and to Mrs. S , and her husband ; and believe me, my
child, with love greater than 1 can express,
Your friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
TO THE SAME.
Richmond, Va., Aug. 23(1, 1824.
The sensations which pervaded your mind, on the last
sacrament attended by your dear mother, were such, my
child, as I should have expected you would have under-
gone. Your absence from the altar attracted her atten-
tion, as well as mine, and gave rise to some parental
observations between us — observations growing out of that
love we have always cherished for you. It has been a
maxim invariably observed by me, in my intercourse with
my children, never to force that duty upon them, but to
leave them at their own discretion. This cautious mode
of procedure has arisen from the apprehension that my
advice might be viewed, in some measure, as imperative,
and they might be influenced to do that for me which they
270 MEMOIE OF THE
did not consider they owed to God. The death of your
mamma has, however, induced me to overlook my former
purpose; especially as it was her dying wish that I would
press the subject of religion on the minds of her children.
It would have been singularly gratifying to me to have
received you at the altar myself; but as the distance is so
great, and life is so very uncertain, I would rather you
should not postpone it unnecessarily. As your cousin
T resides in Philadelphia, I should prefer your union
with him : next to your brother D , he is my nearest
and dearest clerical connexion.
Sacramental communion is the discharge of a rational
duty, and is to be viewed through that medium. We have
been redeemed from ruin, by the death and passion of the
Redeemer; and it is his command that we always bear our
obligations in mind, by confessing him in the world, and by
an obedience to his precepts. The qualifications of a com-
municant are drawn up in the last question of our Cate-
chism, hoih fully and truly. How am T to know that I
repent truly of my former sins and negligences 1 The safest
criterion by which to judge in this matter, is our life. If
we are sorry for past sins and negligences, that sorrow will
deter us from a continuance in them, and lead us to that
course of practice enjoined upon all Christians. Conscious
of our weakness, we will pray for the influences of God's
Holy Spirit to excite in us a detestation of sin, and the love
and practice of holiness. How are we to know that we
have a lively faith in God's mercy, through Christ, with a
thankful remembrance of his death ? The way to ascertain
this truth, is by asking our hearts such questions as these.
Do I believe that I have been redeemed from misery by
the Lord Jesus Christ? And did God, in pity to man, find
out that way for the escape of his intelligent creatures?
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 271
If such is my belief, I will, upon all occasions, show my
gratitude to God, by loving him with all my powers, and
evince to heaven, the world, and myself, that I have a
thankful remembrance of the death of Christ, by the com-
memoration of his sufferings, as exhibited in the Last Sup-
per, and by openly declaring myself a Christian. What
are the benefits whereof we are partakers thereby ? The
strengthening and the refreshing of our souls by the body
and blood of Christ, as our bodies are by bread and wine.
In a way that we cannot perfectly explain, God is pleased
to make the ordinances of religion the channels Q)i\\\% love
to man. We perform our duty, in obeying that precept
which leads us to the altar. God strengthens us by his
inward grace imparted to us ; thereby enabling us to love
him more, and serve him better. Read the twenty-fourth
chapter of St. Luke, and you will perceive, that although
the Saviour had conversed at large with Cleophas, and his
associates, still they did not know him until he break
bread, and gave to them. Christ Jesus is the same now
that he was then; of course, as ready to communicate a
display of his power to all who love him as he has ever been.
In this display of power, my beloved child, you are not to
expect any thing miraculous. It will show itself, by in-
creasing your desire to love God, and warming your heart
with devotional feelings. I would recommend it to you
to cultivate an intercourse with a few sensible Christians,
to separate yourself from all those who think or speak
lightly of religion, and to engage in no pursuit calculated
to chill your religious ardour, or to render you forgetful
of what you now feel to be your duty. Write at large to
me, and state any difficulties you may think you perceive
in the duty before us; and I will, with great pleasure,
afford you every information in my power. Let us strive,
272 MEMOIR OF THE
my dear child, to prepare for that hour which is near at
hand; then we shall meet your mother in that world in
which no separations will ever take place, but an eternity
of joy be our happy portion. Tell Mr. H , that he
must consider my letters to you as addressed equally to
him. The truths which concern you, are as obligatory
upon him as upon yourself. That God may direct you,
bless you, and preserve you to the end, is the prayer of,
my dear G ,
Your friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
Love to all.
Richmond, Va., Nov. 23J, 1824.
My Beloved Child, — I have determined, time after time,
since the receipt of your last favour, to sit down and reply
to it; but the repeated calls of duty have hitherto pre-
vented me. I have, however, this moment returned from
my morning walk, and will now comply with my own wishes,
and your expectations.
J should be happy, were we so situated, that you could
make use of my library ; but at the distance at which we
are placed, such a measure is impracticable. The books
from which you would find the most advantage, at present,
are neither many nor expensive.
There is a little volume called the Rise and Progress of
Religion in the Soul, by Doddridge, to which I would direct
your attention. It is both rational and devout; written in
a style both pleasing and instructive; and calculated to
warm the heart of the young Christian. Another book,
worthy your attention, is the Village Sermons. They are
short, scriptural, and devout. Your dear mother was
fond of them, and frequently used them. A Week's Pre-
LIFE or BISHOP MOORE. 273
paration for the Lord's Supper, is also a valuable work.
It is not of recent origin, but was drawn up many years
since, by a member of the Church of England. Obtain the
above volumes, if they can be had, and consult T
with respect to any others with which he may be conver-
sant. While I thus direct the attention of my child to
human authors for instruction, I should be wanting in duty,
were 1 to omit mentioning the Sacred Writings as the
source of the greatest advantage. In the Psalms of David,
there is something adapted to every situation in which we
may be placed, and to every state of mind in which we
may be involved.
The 51st is descriptive of the experience of a convinced
sinner. The 23d is expressive of the pastoral care which
the Saviour takes of all who love him. The 103d shows
us the mutability of all earthly things, and the merciful
disposition of Heaven towards those who seek his forgive-
ness. The Sermon on the Mount, which begins at the 5th
of St. Matthew's Gospel, was delivered by a preacher
who could not err; points out to us our duty, and shows us
the way in which to please and glorify God. St. Luke's
Gospel is full of parables, illustrative of the mercy of God
to the human family, and points out to the penitent inquirer
the nature of the Almighty, and the way of access to his
presence. The parable of the Lost Sheep expresses the
manner in which the Saviour seeks those who wander from
the fold ; and the parable of the Prodigal convinces us
that past sins cannot shut us out of heaven, provided we
will fly to the bosom of our offended parent and ask for-
giveness.
In the Bible we cannot look without improvement, as
all Scripture is given by inspiration. It contains the his-
tory of our fall, as recorded in Genesis, and the way in
V
274 MEMOIR OF THE
which we have been redeemed by the blood of Christ, is
contained in the New Testament. Make it, my dear
daughter, your chief counsellor. It was the book your
mother loved ; and all other books were used by her only
as subsidiary to it. That heaven may preserve alive in
your mind, the desires you now feel, is my ardent prayer;
and that the mind that was in Christ Jesus may be in you,
and your dear husband ; indeed, in all the family with
whom you reside, is the prayer, the constant prayer of one
who tenderly loves you,
Your friend and father,
Richard Channing Moorf,.
P. S. Love to Mr. H , and all the family, to T
also, and his family, and to good Mrs. S , and her
husband.
Richmond, Va., Sept. 29th, 1825.
My Dear G , — Last evening, while sitting surrounded
by a large circle of friends, your welcome letter was handed
to me by Mr. H , in which I was informed of the
health of yourself and dear sisters. It would have given
me great pleasure to have extended my trip to New York,
and to have seen my youngest son comfortably fixed in
Hartford ; but as I have always made my own gratitica-
tion bend to the imperious dictates of duty, I was obliged
to sacrifice inclination at the shrine of my pastoral office.
I shall not feel settled, until I have my beloved children
around me. I can scarcely tell you how distressing it is
to my mind, to be separated from them. The fear of their
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 275
indisposition, and the conviction that it would not have
been in my power (o hover over them, or even to have
reached them under 8uch an event, very often presented
itself to my mind, during my journey, and rendered me
unhappy. I have always been fond of my children, par-
ticipating largely of their distresses, and entering deeply
into all their concerns.
The connexion in which they formerly stood to me seems
in some measure changed. I always knew that my life
was of great consequence to them ; but at present, that
consideration is, in a degree, swallowed up by the reflec-
tion that their continuance is indispensably necessary to
my comfort. At my time of life, and in my bereaved
state, how wretched should I be, were I not placed in the
midst of a family, and that family my own dear children.
Strangers would not care for an old man, nor shed a
tear over him in his distress; but children, thank God
are not strangers, especially if those children are Chris-
tians.
I will thank you to give my love to those who are
with you in New York, and to request them to be in
readiness to return with Captain K . I should have
no objections to their visiting Philadelphia, and returning
home by land, did not the additional expense deter me;
but as my pocket, under all circumstances, will not justify
the measure, they must yield up their wishes, and save
me the money such an expenditure would cost. What
with C at college, and Mr. C 's salary, I must
study economy, or my family will be pinched after my
decease.
Remember me affectionately to my brother and his
family, to your dear grandmother, and all her family
276 MEMOIR OF THE
and connexions; say to my children all a fond father
could say were he present, and believe me, my dear
G ,
Your friend and father,
Richard Channixg Moore.
Love to Mr. H .
Richmond, Va., Sept. 1, 1826.
My dear G. — Should I be spared a few weeks longer, I
indulge a hope, that I shall visit the North ; and once more
be blessed with an interview with my beloved absent chil-
dren. When you see Mrs. S , present my best re-
spects to her and her husband ; express to them my thank-
fulness for their kind invitation ; and let them know that
I shall embrace the ofTer of an asylum under their roof at
least part of the time.
It would give me the greatest pleasure to take my dear
C with me to the North ; not only, as it would afford
her an excursion agreeable to her wishes, but also as some
return for her unceasing attentions to me, since it has
pleased God to leave me alone. After passing forty years
n a married state, it is difficult to reconcile the mind to
such a bereavement as I have experienced. It is not all
the unintermitted attentions of children that can supply
the vacancy occasioned by the loss of an affectionate com-
panion. There are a thousand things continually pressing
on the mind, which cannot be disclosed to them : and which
nothing but the sympathies of a wife can alleviate or re-
move.
To reveal to them all that passes in the mind, is impossi-
ble : it would burthen them with cares and disquietude
LIFE OF BISHOP MOORE. 277
which a father would shrink from subjecting them to:
whereas the disclosure of them to an individual plighted
by the most solemn vows to bear part of the weight, would
not only lessen the difficulty but very often remove it alto-
gether.
It is but justice in me to observe, that, as far as children
can supply my loss, that loss has been supplied. There
are no attentions they have withheld from me. I have
never been left one hour alone : and, when the younger
part of my family have been visiting their friends, C
has hovered around me ; and exhibited in her conduct, the
most perfect pattern of filial duty and respect. Scarcely
a day passes in which E does not see me, and scarcely
a week goes over our heads, in which she, her husband,
and her dear children do not pass the evening at my house
three or four times. When God shall see fit to take me
away, my children will have nothing with which to re-
proach themselves — they have been dutiful and kind, and
heaven will reward them for it.
I do wish, my beloved G , that you lived in our neigh-
bourhood, to make one of our family party ; and did I
possess the power and wealth to have it so, it would have
been so long before this time ; but, as my resources are not
sufficiently ample to accomplish such an object, I must be
contented.
Give my sincere love to Mr. H.,and assure him of a deep
interest in my regard, and believe me, my beloved child,
Your sincerely affectionate
Friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
278 MEMOIR OF THE
EXTRACT.
Richmond, Jan. 2, 1832,
My dear Son, — I have intended, day after day, to an-
swer your last letter, but the mortality which has visited
,this city during the present month has so engrossed my at-
tention, that I have had very little time to think of any
thing but pastoral duty. This day I have a little leisure,
and therefore have taken up my pen to address you a
few lines.
In the midst of all your studies I sincerely hope that
you cultivate a heartfelt communion with your God and
Saviour ; supplicating him that the mind which was in
Christ Jesus may be in you. Pastoral duty, without the
spirit of religion to animate you in the discharge of it,
would prove a burden to your mind ; and render all your
ministerial labours fruitless and unavailing. A good and
sound education may constitute you a man of letters, fur-
nishing the head with every useful information ; but, rely
upon it, that nothing less than divine grace can render a
man qualified to bring his resources into spiritual action,
and thus enable him to find a passage to the human heart.
I could wish you to cultivate the talent of extempore
speaking ; studying the subject well, possessing yourself of
all its leading truths ; but reserving to yourself the oppor-
tunity, when necessary, of delivering your sentiments with-
out the labour of entire composition. You might form,
among the students, a society, in which to improve your-
selves in thus delivering your sentiments. It is so import-
ant a part of a clerical education, that every student
hould endeavour to possess himself of it. Instances so often
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 279
occur which call for extemporaneous effort that I sincerely
hope you will strive to excel in it.
Always remember me to the professors and their fami-
lies, and believe me,
My dear C ,
Your sincere friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
extract. to the same.
Richmond, Va., Feb. 23, 1832-
The fault in young men consists in being too violent r
straining the voice, and, very often, by that means, doing
an injury to the matter contained in their discourses. When
a man has strong lungs he may weather the storm he thus
raises ; but, should his chest be weak, something must give
way, and that something is often found in the rupture of a
blood vessel, and a retirement from the ministry, if not in
premature death.
It is a mistake to suppose that a m.an is better heard
when speaking very loud ; a deliberate delivery, even when
the voice is weak, will fill a large space to better purpose
than great vociferation, with that rapidity which is always
its accompaniment : for, you will observe, that in propor-
tion to the elevation of voice, will be the rapidity of a
man's speaking.
In common conversation, when men are cool, they, in
general, speak slow ; but the moment they become warm,
their enunciation becomes very indistinct, in consequence
of the agitation and hurry which mark their temper and
spirit. With love to the professors, believe me.
Your sincere friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
280 ME5I0IE OF THE
EXTRACT.
Richmond, Va., Sept. 18, 1833.
My dear Son, — I should consider myself subject to the
charge of ingratitude, were 1 to withhold from Mr. B
and his family my sincere thanks for their marked kind-
ness to me while a resident under their roof.
Tell them that their hospitality is duly appreciated by
me ; and that it would afford me great pleasure to make
them a similar return of friendship. It may be so ordered
that at some time or other, some of his household may visit
Richmond. Should such ever be the case, my house and
bosom would be open to their reception. Tell Mrs. B.
that I enjoyed my seat at her right hand at table very
much ; and that upon all future occasions I should lay claim
to the same privilege.
Mention to E , the pleasure I enjoyed in her socie-
ty, and how happy I should be, were you situated nearer to
me — I hope the dear children are both well, and that
R 's dog can still 'bark as well as he did, when I was
with him. How is my little E , I often think I see
her running around the centre table tumbling about like a
dumpling, and again picking herself up with perfect good
humour. She is certainly an engaging little puss, and has
made a deep impression of attachment on my mind. Tell
the woman who opened the street door so often for me,
that I remember her, and hope that she may be so good,
that the door of heaven may be opened when she shall
knock for admission. Accept for yourself, my son, the
LIFE OF BISHOP 3I00EE. 281
strongest assurances of my regard, and nny thanks for the
many filial attentions I received at your hands, and
Believe me
Your sincere friend and father,
Richard Channing Moore.
Richmond, Va., Dec. 11th, 1840.
My dear Son, — In letters received yesterday from your
brothers D and C . I have been informed of the
death of your youngest son. The bereavement, although it
must deeply afflict you and E , is mixed with great
consolation. The dear child has committed no wilful sin
against his Maker ; consequently has fallen asleep in the
bosom of that Saviour who died to save him ; and his infant
spirit is now placed out of the reach of all danger, and put
in possession of happiness unspeakable and full of glory. I
am well aware of the sufferings parents undergo, in the
loss of their children ; but 1 also know, that the certainty
of the happiness those children are invested with, imme
diately on their departure from the present life, most sensi-
bly abates the anguish of the parental heart; and will ena-
ble them to say with perfect truth, ' not as we will, but as
thou, our Father wilt." 1 remember the pangs which rent
my bosom, at the departure of my son C , who died
when four years of age ; but I also remember, that while
bending over his remains I was so satisfied of his happy
state, that I would not have turned a straw to bring him
back. This world is a world of trouble ; but that trouble
with which we are visited, is necessary to our future hap-
piness ; for if we met with nothing here but uninterrupted
felicity, we should never think of our future state. This
we must know would be the case, for we do find from ex-
282 MEMOIR OF THE
perience, that notwithstanding all the distresses of human
life, we still cling to the world ; and that there is nothing
but the afflicting hand of heaven, that can separate our
hold ; and enable us, poor sinners as we are, to lay up our
treasure in heaven.
God, my son, is a God of mercy ; and he has removed
your child from your embrace in mercy — he has taken him
to himself, and now calls upon you to set your affections on
things above, and prepare to meet that child in heaven.
Let your earnest inquiry, then, be made of the Almighty
Lord, what wilt thou have me to do. And should you find
that the affliction you now feel is productive of a desire
to seek and serve the living God — you will be enabled to
say in truth, it is good for me that I have been afflicted.
Read the above parental remarks to E , close in, with-
out a moment's delay, with the offers of the Gospel ; and
press forward toward the mark, for the prixe of your high
calling of God in Christ Jesus. Listen, I entreat you, to the
good counsel of your dear brothers, and be determined to
set your affections on things above, and not on things on the
earth."
That God, in mercy, may sanctify your troubles to your
present and everlasting happiness, is the prayer of
Your sincere friend and father,
Richard Chanmng Moore.
The following extract affords a touching illustration of his
kindness as a master.
EXTRACT FROM A LETTER TO BISHOP RAVENSCROFT.
****** " The good and excellent girl presented
to my daughter by Mrs. R , paid the debt of nature
LIFE OF BISHOP MOOEE. 283
on the 4th inst. She had a severe attack of bilious fever last
fall, and had not been weW since. In order to contribute
to her comfort, she slept in the same chamber with my
daughter all winter; and had she been one of my own
children, she could n 
