AlABAAU BAPTIST HISTORICAL SOCIETY
MINUTES.
FIBST DAY.
MORNING SESSION.
The Tallasahatchee and Ten Island Baptist Association
^orLPP.npd with Harmony church, Calhoun county, Ala,,
C^tober 4, rnlD
jTntroductory sermon by Elder J. A. Glenn, Subject,
"Moses' Choice." Text, Heb. 11th chapter, 23d, 24th, 25th
and 26th verses. A very forcible and impressive discourse.
Intermission of one hour. Reassembled.
Brother E. F. Rice, Clerk of the body, announced the
removal from onr bounds of the Moderator, when Elder J.
F, Potter was called to the chair.
Prayer by Elder J. A. Reeves, of the Cherokee Associa-
tion.
The letters were read and names of delegates recorded :
FIRST DISTRICT.
Ten Island — J. Putman, W. H. Anderson, W. R. Ack-
ridge,
Hebron— Elder J. A. Glenn, Elder T. K. Trotter, W. G.
Duke.
Pilgrim's Rest — John Weems.
Pine Grove — Elder C. Best.
Ohatchie— Z. Williams, J. P. Allsup, P. Bailey, J. M.
Rhodes.
Mt. Gillead — C. A. J. HoUingsworth.
Oak Grove — J. II. Yin son, E, S. Nabors.
Bebee Springs — Not represented.
SECOND DISTRICT.
Friendship — Elder E, T. Read, J, Johnson.
Nance's Creek— J. H. King, J. W. Clay.
Rabbit Town— Elder J. F. Potter, T. Andrews, W. De-
Freese.
Shiloh— W. A. Wood, W. W. Coleman.
Tl
2 MINUTES.
Harmony — Elders J. A. Scott, M. Garrett, J. V. Rhodes'
J, L. Harrison,
Zion Hill— S. S. Love, A. K Ward, W. Williams.
THIRD DISTRICT.
Liberty — Elder W. II. Burton, E. Roberts, J. R. Graham.
Pisgali — E. F. Rice, Potter Coley.
Mt. Zion— J. A. Ellis, S. B. Crouch.
Cross Plains — Elder H. A. Williams.
New Hopewell — T. Littlejohn.
Pili^rim's Rest— Elder S. E. Dykes, P. M. Wilson, J. W.
Balcei-;
Union — ISTot represented.
FOURTH DISTRICT.
Nazareth — Elders S. J. Hare, W. J. Durham.
Centre— W. H. Ballard.
Sandy Creek — W. P. Hughes, J. R. McAbee.
Pleasant Yalley— J. F. Wester.
Bethel — W. L. Sutherland, James Richardson, Jas. Aber-
nath3^
Pine Grove — Elder W. I. Gardner.
Chalcedonia — A. G. Holt.
Friendship— Elder E. A. Hall, W. S. Williams, W. F.
Gurley.
Providence — Not represented.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS.
Elder J. F. Potter, Moderator ; Elder W. H. Burton
Clerk.
Suspended regular order of business, when Elder M. Gar-
rett, in a very forcible and feeling manner, called the atten-
tion of the body to the requests of the churches for prayer.
On motion of Elder E. T. Read, Eld. M. Garrett offered
prayer.
Invited visiting brethren to seats.
Opened the door of the Association for the reception of
churches. Received Pilgrim's Rest. See Third District.
Called for correspondents.
Cave Spring — Brother S. P Sewell.
Boiling Spring — Elder A. F. Allen, Elder J. F. Watson ;
J. W. McClintock, J. C. Bean, L. Manning.
Coosa River— Elder E. T. Smyth, Elder S. G. Jenkins,
Dr. B. D. Williams, J. Kelly.
Cherokee — Elder J. A. Reeves, D. M. Reeves.
MINUTES. 6
Arbacoocliee — Kiiichen Morris,
Cahaba Valley — J^one.
On motion, called for correspondents from Alabama State
Convention.
Elder E. T, Smyth was received and recognized as a
member of the State Mission Board.
Appointed Correspondents to State Convention, to con-
vene at Greenville, Bntler county, on Wednesday before
the third Sabbath in July, 1880 : 'Elders E. T. Read, J. A.
Scott, J. A. Glenn, J. F. Potter, W. H. Burton.
Appointed Correspondents to sister Associations :
Cave Spring — To convene at Rome, Ga., embracing the
second Sabbath in October, 1870 : Elder W. H. Burton,
Elder W. J. Durham, E. Roberts.
Cedar Bluif — To convene with Cedar Bluff chi.rch
Cherokee county, Ala , embracing the fourth Sabbath in
September, 1880 : Elder E. A. Hall, Elder S. J. Hare, Elder
W. H. Burton, W. P. Hughes, W. H. Ballard, A. G. Holt.
Harmony — To convene with Concord church, Cleburne
county, Ala., on Saturday before the fourth Sabbath in
October, 1879 : Elders H. A. Williams and J. F. Potter.
Cherokee — To convene with Union church, Etowa coun-
ty, on Friday before the third Sabbath in September, 1880 :
Elder J. A. Glenn, W. M. Hughes, E. S. Nabors.
Boiling Springs — To convene at Mount Moriah, Clay
county, Ala., embracing the third Sabbath in September.
1880 : Elder M. Garrett, J. W. Riddle.
Coosa River — To convene at Fayette church, Talladega
county, embracing the third Sabbath in September, 1880 :
Elder J. F. Potter, J. R. Graham.
Cabaha Valley — To convene at Cedar Grove, St. Clair
county, embracing the fourth Sabbath in September, 1880:
Elder J. A. Glenn, E. F. Rice.
Arbacoochee — To convene at Lost Creek church, Cleburne
county, Ala., on Saturday before the third Sabbath in Oc-
tober, 1879 : Elders H. A. Williams, W. I. Gardner, W. H.
Burton.
Appointed Committees.
Preaching — W. DeFreese, J. R. Graham, W. P. Hughes,
and the deacons of Harmony church.
Business — Elders E. T. Read, J. A. Glenn, S. J. Hare.
Finance — Elder T. K. Trotter, W. H. Ballard, Terrell
Andrews.
MINUTES.
Deceased Ministers — Elder J. A. Glenn, Elder E. A. Hall,
E. Koberts.
Adjourned till Monday, 9 o'clock a. m.
Prayer by Elder J. J, Andrews.
SATURDAY NIGHT.
Elder J. F. Watson, of the Boiling Spring Association,
delivered an able discourse to a large and appreciative audi-
ence.
SABBATH EXERCISES.
Preaching at 9 o'clock a. m., by Elder J. J, Andrews, of
Gun Town, Miss. Subject : "The Commission" ; text :
Mark xvi. ch. 15th and 16th verses.
Missionary sermon at 11 o'clock by Eld. E. T. Smyth, of
the Coosa River Association. Subject : "God Reconciling
the World" ; text : 11 Cor., v ch., i9th verse.
At the same hour Elder H. A. Williams preached at the
Academy. Subject : "Jesus" ; text : Acts, viii ch., 35th
verse. Collected $7.00 to aid in finishing the house of
worship at Cross Plains.
After brother Smyth's sermon $21.50 was collected for
Slate Missions.
At 2 o'clock p. M. Eld. S. G. Jenkins preached on the
subject of "Communion" ; text : 1 Cor., xi ch., 25 verse.
At night Eld. T. K. Trotter. Subject : "The Righteous
and Wicked" ; text : Isa. iii chap., lOth and 11th verses.
Also, Elder Andrews preached at Shiloh, and from the re-
port of the brethren, their "cups" were full and running
over. Many sinners came forward for prayer.
We had a precious time at Harmony. Christians were
comforted — sinners alarmed.
All the above-named brethren discussed their subjects,
with a knowledge and zeal that characterized the faithful
representatives of Heaven. Their efforts were attended
with the power of the Holy Spirit, and we expect a harvest
to be gathered from the seeds sown by them.
THIRD DAY.
Monday Morning, October 6th.
Met pursuant to adjournment. Read 133 and 134: divis-
ions of the Psalms. Prayer by Eld. S. E. Dykes.
MINUTES. 5
Eeceived the Report of the Committee on Business.
Adopted. (See Appendix, "A.")
Called Roll of Churches. Read Constitution, Abstract of
Principles and Decorum.
Renewed call for correspondence :
Cedar Bluff— J. T. Hollin^sworth.
On motion, Eld. J. J. Andrews, of Mississippi, was re-
ceived and recognized as a visiting brother.
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEJES.
Circular Letter. (See Appendix, "B.") >
Family Religion. ( " " "C')
Prayer Meeting. ( " " "D.")
Bible Reading. None. Chairman excused.
Temperance. None. Chairman not present.
Missions. (See Appendix, "E.")
The above reports were all adopted, with the following
preamble and resolutions, which accompanied the Report on
Missions :
Whereas, The Aliabama Baptist Convention has a State Mission and
Sunday-school Board, to which is committed the worlv of assisting the
Associations tliroughout the State in devising the best means of sup-
plying the destitute within their bounds, therefore
Resolved, 1st. That we approve of the work in which the Conven-
tion is engaged, and give to it our hearty endorsement.
2d. That brethren J. K. Graham, E. Roberts and W. H. Graham be
appointed as an Executive Committee by tliis Association, whose duty
it shall be to co-operate with the State Board, and make the mry best
arrangement they can to have mission work done in our bounds to the
extent of all the money now in our hands (raised for mission purposes) ;
also, to the extent of all the money that can be raised for that pur-
pose.
3d. That all money now in the hands of our Treasurer, or that may
come into his hands for mission purposes, or that is in the hands of any
other person, be turned over to the Executive Committee, to be used
by them as above directed.
Able and telling speeches were made on the subject of
missions by Elders J. A. Scott, E. T. Smyth and others.
Adjourned one hour. Prayer by Elder J. A. Glenn.
evening session.
1 o'clock.
The body re-assembled in the house.
Prayer by Elder J. Y. Rhodes.
Able, earnest and instructive addresses were made on the
subject of missions by Elder J. J. Andrews, M. Garrett and
J. A. Glenn.
6 MINUTES.
On motion, called for pledges from the clnirches and in-
dividuals for mission work :
Harmony $ 10 00
Hebron 5 00
Shiloli 5 00
Zion Hill 10 00
]{abbitTown 5 00
]S ance's Creek 5 00
New Hopewell SCO
Pisgah 5 00
Sandy Creek 5 00
Friendship (4tli District) 5 00
Bethel 5 00
Pilgrim's Rest (Cherokee) 3 00
Liberty 10 00
W. H.* Ballard 5 00
Elder E. T. Read 5 00
C. A. J. Hollingsworth 2 50
E. S. Nabors 1 00
Z. Williams 2 50
Elder M. Garrett 5 00
Elder J. F. Potter 5 00
Elder W. I. Gardner 1 00
A.G.Holt. 2 50
John Wester 2 00
James Dobbs 1 00
$109 50
It is hoped that the above-named parties will pay over to
the Executive Committee the"above amounts as soon as pos-
sible ; that they will enlist tlieirchurches in the ojood work,
and increase or add to the amounts pledged by them.
Called for report on documents. Adopted. (See Apen-
dix "F.")
Eeport on Finance. Adopted. (See Appendix "G.")
Deceased Ministers. Adopted. (See Appendix ''H,")
BEREAVEMENT.
On the announcement of the demise, since our body has
been in session, of our esteemed brother, Elder Wiley
Woodall, the regular order of business was suspended and
the body, led by Elder M. Garrett, engaged in solemn
prayer in behalf of the family of our deceased brother.
Kegular order resumed.
Called for report of Committee appointed to visit Friend-
ship and Mt. Gilead churches.
Read, and, on motion, laid on the table until the next
session of the body.
The Committee to co-operate with Cedar Bluff Associa-
MINUTES.
tion reported that, from various circumstances, they had
been unable to do anything.
Report received, and Committee discharged.
THE NEXT SESSION.
On motion, appointed the next session of this body to be
held with the church at Liberty, on the S. R. & D. Rail-
road, eighteen miles above, or east of, Jacksonville, Ala.,
commencing on Friday before the first Sabbath in October,
1880.
INTRODUCTORY AND MISSIONARY SERMONS.
Elected Elder J. F. Potter to preach the Introductory
sermon ; Elder T. K. Trotter, alternate.
Elder John A. Scott was elected, by acclamation, to
preach the Missionary sermon.
RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED.
FIRST.
Resolved, That the churches composing this body consider the fol-
lowing views strictly defining Baptist usage; that is:
A member of a church deeming himself unjustly deprived of his
rights and privileges as a citizen of Christ's Kingdom, has the right to
protest and demand an impartial trial, and if he cannot get it from
the excluding church, he may apply for membership to any other,
with the request that the church inform herself of all the facts in con-
nection with his exclusion. If any church should see fit to entertain
his case, and after informing herself of said facts, should be convinced
that the brother has been unjustly deprived of his membership, she
should request that church to reconsider the case, with the assistance
and advice of brethren of sister churches, which, if she refuses to do,
that church can receive that brother into her own membersliip, for she
is a sovereign body, under Christ, to receive and exclude whom she
sees fit. E. T. Read.
SECOND.
Resolved, That the Constitution, Abstract of Principles and Rules
of Decorum be printed in the Minutes of this session; that the Consti-
tution be so amended as to read "Tallasahatchee and Ten Island Asso-
ciation " E. T. Read.
THIRD.
Resolved, That our Clerk is instructed to record Elder instead of
Reverend in this Minute, when a minister's name is recorded.
E. T. Read.
FOURTH.
Resolved, That this body appoint a brother in each district to receive
from the Clerk and distribute to the churches the Minutes of this Asso-
ciation. E. F. Rice.
S MINUTES.
FIFTH.
Resolved, That the Clerk be requested to omit from the Minutes the
names of all absent delegates. J. A. Scott.
SIXTH.
Resolved, That the Clerk receive fifteen dollars for his services, and
that he have as many Minutes as possible printed with the remainder
of the Minute fund, and that he have them distributed to the several
churches, according to the money sent up by them.
E. F. Rice.
SEVENTH
Resolved, That we return our humble gratitude to our Heavenly
Father for his providence over and his love towards us during our
meeting, and to the brethren of Harmony and vicinity for the hospit-
able and kind manner in which they entertained the delegates during
the session of this body.
STANDING COMMITTEES.
Family Religion Elder T. K. Trotter
Reading Bible Elder J. A. Scott
Temperance Elder S. E. Dykes
Prayer Meeting E. F. Rice
Missions Elder J. A. Glenn
Sabbath-Schools Elder W. H. Burton
inSCELLANEOUS BUSINESS.
On motion, the following brethren were appointed to
receive from the Cle''k and distribute the Minutes to the
churches in their respective districts :
First District— Elder J. A. Gleim, Peek's Hill, Ala.
Second District — A. IST. Ward, White Plains, Ala.
Third District — J. K. Graham, Ladiga, Ala.
Fourth District — Dr. A. P. Richardson, Forney, Ala.
treasurer's report.
Called for and adopted. (See Appendix "I.")
On motion, agreed to pay Elder H. A. Williams $35.00,
as part of the remainder claimed by him for missionary
services rendered in 1877 and 1878, and to pledge ourselves
to try to induce the other four Associations to pay their
2>ro jata share.
Took up a collection for Elder Williams, which amounted
to $19.40, Ordered the Treasurer to pay him the balance,
$15.60.
DISTRICT MEETINGS.
First District — At Hebron on Friday before the first
Sabbath in August, 1880.
Second District — Zion Hill, Friday before the fifth Sab-
bath in August, 1880.
MINUTES. 9
Third District— Mt. Zion, Friday before the fifth Sabbath
in August, 1880.
Fourth District — Pine Grove, Friday before the fourth
Sabbath in August, 1880.
On motion, ordered the Clerk to write Corresponding
Letter. (See Appendix "J.")
On motion, read a letter from Elder J. W. Pullen, offer-
ing tuition, etc., to Elder W. J. Durham. Laid on the table.
The business of the session being thus concluded, the
familiar hymn, " Children of the Heavenly King," was
sung while the parting hand was given. After kind words by
the Moderator, Elder J. A. Scott offered prayer, and the
Association adjourned to the time and place appointed.
Thus closed one of the most pleasant and harmonious ses-
sions it has ever been our privilege to attend.
J. F. Potter, Moderator.
W. H. BuKTON, Clerk.
Appendix.
A.
Report of Business Committee.
Organic.
I. Introductory Sermon.
II. Recess.
III. Call to Order. Siasjing and Prayer.
IV, Call for Letters of Churches by Districts.
V. Read Letters and record Delegates names.
VI. Elect Moderator and Clerk.
Regular Order — New Organization.
I. Invite visiting Brethren and welcome them.
II. Open do )r of Association for the reception of members.
III. Call for Correspondents and appoint the same.
IV. Name Committee on Preaching.
V. Name homes for friends.
VI. Adjourn for Christian Sabbath.
Third Day.
I. Call to Order. Prayer.
II. Call Roll of Churches and correct errors.
III. Read Constitution, Abstract of Principles and Decorum.
IV. Renew call for Correspondence.
10 MINUTES.
V. Call for Reports of Standing Committees in the order of
appointment. (Old Minutes.)
"VT. Appoint Time and Place of next Session.
VII. Elect Ministers to preach the Introductory and Mission-
ary Sermons.
VIII. Hear Resolutions.
IX. Appoint Standing Committees.
X. Miscellaneous Business.
XI. Attend to Corresponding Letter.
Xli. Read and correct the Minutes, and adjourn to time
and place appointed.
E. T. Read, Chairman.
Circular Letter.
Dear Brethren— In sending our epistle we would desire to
call your attention to some things which appear to us to he of
vital importance in preserving unity among yourselves, and pro-
moting the best interests of Zion.
It is a self-evident fact that there is not that devotion to the
cause of truth, and that efficiency in our churches, which are to
be desired and which might be attained, were the principles of the
Gospel faithfully practiced by them.
But an unjustifiable conformity to the spirit of fashions of the
world is too apparent amongst us all.
Partaking too much of the spirit of the age, which is of an in-
ventive, infldel and speculative character, we are liurried on too
much to the adoption of new things and practicing new ways,
greatly to the dishonor of true piety. Arts and sciences are in
their onward march. Knowledge is extending far and wide over
the world. The press groans with burdens and multiplies publi-
cations of every conceivable character, both sacred and profane.
Facilities for traveling, transportation, together with ti'ansmis-
sion of intelligence, are multiplying. Improvements in agricul-
ture, commerce and science are continually making; and the swift
winged messengers of news are flying through the earth with
Ightning speed and extending knowledge and science, religion and
irreligion folly and fashion, sin and death, over all the world.
The snoblsh American visits Europe, admires everything, and
on liis return fills the air and tlie press with lamentations over the
defects of our social life, as compared with that of Europe. But
while the narrow-minded people are few, and their influence com-
paratively harmless, the fashionables are legion, and their influ-
ence pernicious in the extreme. Everything is coming, through
the influence of fashionable taste, to be done on the European plan.
Houses are built on the European j)lan ; our clothes are made on
the European plan ; our meals are cooked on the European plan ;
our speech, manners, morals— even our religion, is modeled on the
European plan. Hence the intro luetion into tbe churches South
of the Harmonium singing from Boston; and shall I say prayer-
mills from Cbina, and the Automaton sermon reading. The dis-
position to copy what is good in the life and customs of foreign
nations is one thing, the disposition to adopt everything indis-
criminately, merely because it is foreign, whether it accords with,
or antagonizes our •' institutions," is quite another thing. While
one is commendable the other is detestable.
MINUTES J 11
In the midst of these mighty changes it becomes us calmly to
pause and consider, whether these things are not leading us away
from the simplicity of God's worship to the adoption of new forms,
which present a glittering exterior, to thegreatinjury of true devo-
tion ; and whether they are not leading us away from the good
old doctrines of grace to the imbibing of notions of men which are
more congenial to human taste. Believing, as we do, that muc^
evil abounds amongst us, in consequence of these things, we would
earnestly call your attention to a few things, which, in our opinion,
if properly considered, tend in a great measure to remove the
evils which abound, and promote the health of the churches.
1st. Great care should be taken in the selection of pastors. It is
a truth which cannot be denied, that, although there are many
who exercise the pastoral office, but few are really competent to be
Fathers in the Gospel. " For though ye have ten thousand in-
structors in Christ, ye have not many Fathers " : 1 Cor., iv. 15,
was spoken by Paul, and deserves to be inscribed upon the tablets
of our hearts. Not every one that expounds the Scriptures, or
charms the ears of men by his eloquence, will do for the pastor
of a Christian church ; but he to whom God has imparted suitable
gifts. Too many, indeed, make gain their end, or labor for
applause, who seek not the edification of the churches nor salva-
tion of souls. But, having the advantage of education, and having
learned from books the theory of religion, they go forth with scien-
tific knowledge, and ar ■ capable of fascinating the minds of men
and charming them with their eloquent reading ; but, at the same
time, lacking that knowledge which is derived from above — which
Is imparted by God's Holy Word and Spirit ; are totally incapable
of properly unfolding the necessities of religion, teaching trans-
gressors the ways of God, and gently guiding the flock in the p tths
of righteousness. Learning and talents are useful, and, when
employed as handmaids to piety, are hosts in God's service, and
should be cultivated to this end by every minister of the Gos-
pel. But when these gifts are exercised without a deep-toned
piety and a self-sacrificing zeal for God, they are but the means of
darkening Divine counsel, and leading men away from God's
holy truth into the mazes of error, which drown men in destruc-
tion. Piety— ardent, devoted, and enduring — is the first and
greatest qualification to be looked for in the pastor of a church.
Nothing can supply its place, and he who does not possess it in
an eminent degree, though he possesses learning and talents of a
high order, is totally unfit to be the pastor of a Christian church.
It is a lamentable truth, also, that in this age of refinement, too
many of our aged fathers in the Gospel, whose heads have grown
gray in the service, and wliose labors, in by-gone days, have been
abundantly blessed, are laid aside because their learning is limited,
and thei) manners not conformed to the fashions of the day, and
their places supplied by younger men of better advantages in hu-
man acquirements, but who are inferior in spiritual understanding.
Churches are too often 1 loking for men of flaming talents and cul-
tivated minds to minister to them, and too often overlooking the
most i Important qualifications in a pastor of a church. The evil
consequences of these things have been seen and felt in our coun-
try, and thereby the cause of truth has been hindered, in a meas-
ure, in its progressive march.
Again, as the prosperity of churches depends upon the devotion
of the ministry to their calling, every care should be taken to en-
12 MINUTES
able them to cultivate their minds with holy truth, and devote
their whole time to the ministry of the Word, that they may be truly
an efficient ministry. The pastoral office sliould not rest upon the
ground with yearly hirelings, nor the pastor be deprived of the
milk of the flock where his care and labors have been bestowed;
but being settled among his people his earnest care should be to
promote their welfare; and while he labors for their spiritual
interests they should likewise labor together for him. We are
persuaded that, so long as the present system continues in the
country, so long will tl're ministry be unsettled, insufficient and
worldly-minded, and the churches be continually changing from
one to another, and ministers, for the sake of gain or support of
their families, will be moving from one place to another and devot-
ing their time and talents to worldly avocations.
Secondly. Great care should be taken in the reception of mem-
bers into the church. Tliere are many persons in the present day
who find admission into our churches of whom it may be well
said they are enemies to the Savior. And it is a subject worthy
of serious consideration whether the great influx of members into
our churches in times of revivals, is not in too many cases injuri-
rious'to the churches, and prejudicial to the cause of piety, and
whether the manner in which these revivals are conducted is not
in too many cases opposite to the Gospel ; for, how often do we see
the most appalling results follow them ; churches are rent ; fami-
lies at enmity with families; brethren backbiting each other; ex-
clusions, etc., etc. And the churches, instead of being advanced
in piety and holy zeal, seem rather to have retrograded in their
course.
In times of religious excitement, the most enthusiastic labors
are performed — the doors of the churches are thrown wide open,
scarcely any discrimination is used, and many, good and bad, are
received ; but scarcely have the excitements ceased before iramor-
rality makes its appearance among them ; and, after involving the
churches in difficulties, they are thrown back upon the world, where
their lives are a manifest evidence that they are utter strangers to
God. Others continue for years, having a name to live, and are
dead ; and but few, in comparison, become useful members. We
are by no means opposed to revivals, when they are properly con-
ducted; but, when untempered zeal is exercised, and no discrim-
ination used, and when once a year excitements are gotten up in
this way, we cannot believe that they are productive of good, but
much evil. The practice which has prevailed for several years
past, of looking only at periodical times for God's blessings, and
seeking them at no other time, is evidently wrong, for the Lord's
ear is always open to his children's cries, and his arm is always
ready to deliver ; changes of times and seasons make no change in
God Almighty's grace. More care should be taken in nurturing
the new converts with the milk of tlie Word, that they may become
wise and efficient in the service of God; for it is a lamentable
truth that many, very many, who join us, are left to grope their
way along as well as they can ; and, for the want of properly in-
doctrinating in the truths of the Gospel, never fully put on the
Gospel harness, and never become as devoted and as efficient as
they would were tliey to be properly taught, but, too often, are
mere blanks in the church.
Thirdly. A more strict discipline and brotherly faithfulness
should be exercised. Surrounded as we are by heterodox notions
MINUTES. 13
and conflicting opinions, we are liable, at all times, to be harrassed
or misled by them, unless we adhere very closely to the simplicity
of God's word. A strict discipline, with all immoral and heretical
members, will tend greatly to fortify us against the injury which
false doctrines are calculated to produce. It is a truth which can-
not be denied, that too much laxity in discipline abounds in our
churches. Men are tolerated and borne with in things requiring
promptness, not unfrequently to the serious injury of the charac-
ter of the churches; and members are excluded where no suffi-
cient reasons exist. Between these two extremes the Scriptures
guide uSf and only by following them can we expect to prosper.
Brotherly faithfulness with the cultivation of all the Christian
graces, will effectually guard against schisms and disorders, and
will promote peace and unanimity among us, lead them to desire
our company, and to wish an interest in our hopes and joys. But,
alas ! how little is brotherly faithfulness practiced ; every day the
rules ar violated, and a brother's heart aches at the want of
brotherly love. And too often the Christian profession is brought
to blush by men's adherence to each other in worldly objects,
when the object is of less importance and the obligation less bind-
ing than among Christians.
We earnestly entreat you. Christians, to ponder these things well.
And may God grant you the spirit of wisdom and obedience that
you may avoid every error and every evil, and abound in every
good word and work of the Lord. Amen. E. T. Read.
c.
Fainily Religion.
As the Bible speaks of " pure and undeflled religion," your Com-
mittee is under the impression that this religion taught and ex-
emplified in the family, is that which we are expected to report
upon.
A family is a collective body of persons, who live in one house
and under one head or manager — a household Including parents,
children and servants.
Religion ; what is it? What do we mean when we speak of it
in Bible language? It may be that quite a number of our breth-
ren, at this advanced period of the Gospel dispensation, have a
very vague idea in reference to this question. I understand that
it is the recognition of God as an object of worship, love and obe-
dience ; engaging the affections of the pure in heart, the spirit of
the renewed mind and powers of the soul, wherein are implanted
holy principles. In his service is it necessary for these things to
exist and be observed in the family in order that it be what it was
intended to be in its Divine constitution ? We say that it is.
Does the Bible justify this position? Let us see. Deut., vi. 6, be-
ginning at the 6th verse (the preceding chapter contains the Ten
Commandments), is an exhortation to obedience: "And these
words which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart ;
and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt
talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou walk-
est by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest
14 MINUTES.
up. And tliou shalt bind them for a sign upon thy hand, and they
shall be as frontlets between thine eyes."
These duties were made obligatory upon the heads of families
to their offspring.
In the xi. ch. of Deut., at the 18th, 19th and 20th verses the same
duty is taught. In Eph., vi. ch, 4th verse, the duty of fathers to
their children is proclaimed in tliese words : " Fathers, provoke
not your cliildren to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and
admonition of the Lord." In Gen,, xviii. ch. 19th verse, the Lord
speaking of Abraham declares "that He will command His chil-
dren and His household after Him, and they shall keep the way
of the Lord, to do justice and judgment, that the Lord may bring
upon Abraham that which He hath t poken of him." These Scrip-
tures impress our mind with the importance of family religion,
and we believe that the letter and spirit of the same was exempli-
fied in the illustrious liveS' of David, Daniel and Cornelius. Ps.
Iv., 17th v.; Dan. vi. ch. 10th v.; Actsx. ch. But with us in prac-
tice, in what does it consist? Reading and explaining the Word
of God, praise and prayer and an exemplary life. My brethren
are not many of our church members wofully remiss in this
duty? As to its extent the great Searcher of all hearts can only
tell. In the language of Dr. Pendleton: "Where there is no
family worship there is no family recognition of obligation to God,
or dependence on Him. There is not a suitable appreciation of,
nor a proper gratitude for, domestic blessings. There is not that
acknowledgment of the necessity of salvation and the importance
of seeking it.'' J. F. Potter.
D.
Prayer Meetings.
This a subject of paramount importance, and it is to be lamented
that so many of our churches neglect this important part of the
worship of God, and have no stated time for liolding these profit-
able and delightful meetings. They often lay the ground work for
great and glorious revivals of religion.
We are commanded in the Word of God, to assemble ourselves
often together, to pray with and for each other, and to bear each
others burthens — thus fulfilling the law ot Christ.
My brethren, have not your hearts often been made to burn
with the love of God in prayer meetings? There Christians are
often made to rejoice together. Prayer meetings should be made
social meetings.
We should come boldly, praying tluit the Spirit of God would
dwell richly with us. We should pray like the Canaanite woman:
" Lord, have mercy upon me. Lord, help.''
To have and conduct an iuteresting and profitable prayer meet-
ing, we must ho.'promi^t in our attendance. Your presence, breth-
ren, is needed to encourage one another. Your prayers are needed
at these meetings. Wliere is the Christian iu all the land, who
does not desire to have the joys of salvation restored to him ? To
their brethren and sisters, and that their friends may be saved?
That the cause of our blessed Savior may be revived and built up?
My brethren, go home and appoint a stated prayer meeting, if
there is not one already in your church or neighborhood.
Get two or three, or as many as you can to convene in prayer
MINUTES. 15
meeting. Search out some Scriptural prayer, and adopt it as your
lirayer. David prayed for everything you need to make you
happy. From time to time, select some of hispraj^ers suitable to
your case, and on your way to the house of God, breathe that
prayer, earnestly desiring that your petitions may be answered.
Prayer is the desire of the heart. Continue in prayer.
Brethren, you can, in prayer meetings, do a great' and glorious
work, that will in after years tell out for God.
A prayer meeting, conducted in the spirit of our Master, will
give strength in the Lord, It will unite Christians together in the
bonds of love, and enable them to " sit together in heavenly
places in Christ Jesus." It will develop talent amongst our breth-
ren that might otherwise never be brought out. There must be
laborers raised up to work in the vineyard of the Lord, Otir min-
isters are passing away, one after another, to their reward. Even
since we have met here, the sad news has reached us that one of
our most devoted and faithful preachers has passed over the
stream. Others will follow. And we, my brethren, will soon
pass over the Jordan of death. Are we discharging our whole
duty ? are we faithful? are we doing the work assigned us as fol-
lowers of the blessed Savior ? are we prepared to hear the wel-
come applaudit : " Well done thou good and faithful servant?"
Or have we hidden our talents in the rubbish of the world ? We
have the Truth well grounded in our faith. We have a large field
ripe unto harvest, inviting us to work in the yineyard. Breth-
ren, wake up to every good word and work ; for it will not be long
until we shall fall asleep, never to wake on earth again, and if we
fail to sow aright we shall not reap a rich harvest up yonder — we
will not bear tlie sheaves of the harvest. We may be saved, " as
by fire,'' but without stars in our crowns of rejoicing.
Your Committee would respectfully urge that every church in
this Association organize and carry on a regular prayer meeting,
and make a full report of the result at the next session of this
body. J. R. Gbaham.
E.
Missions.
It is painful to us when we examine our history and find that
we have but one report on the important work of Missions for the
last twelve years. This is a sad thought, and reminds us of a de-
parture from the custom of the model church at Jerusalem, to
which all churches should conform, not only in faith, but in lib-
erality. While this has been the condition of our churches, the
work has gone steadily on from conquest to victory. The reason
of this, I trust, is that in the name of God we crossed the "Rubi-
con" and cut the bridge in our rear to prevent our retreating,
I hope, if we are asleep on this important subject, that we are
only asleep on our post, and only need a bugle blast of the gospel
to wake us up and put us in the front ranks.
FOREIGN WORK,
Reports show the baptism of eighteen thousand converts from
heathenism during the past year. Statements show that Baptists
have not all been idle in the Master's vineyard. Let us remember
16 MINUTES.
what we could do and what it is our duty to do. We have a mem--
bership of over two millions ! What could we not do if we were
inspired with the spirit of missions ? May we remember what we
have. God has committed it to our care as stewards, and each of
us must give an account of our stewardship. May God baptize
what we have with the spirit of liberality.
THE HOME MISSION
Has been a success. Even among the Qerce war nations super-
stition has receded at the approach of the "glorious gospel of the
blessed God." The messengers of heaven there need our prayers
and money.
Our State ^fission work, too, has been a success. The Board has
eflBcient men engaged in " discipling " the inhabitants of Alabama,
wbo number about one million souls. About eight hundred thou-
sand are strangers to the way of life and salvation, one hundred
thousand of whom are Baptists, about the same number belonging
to other denominations.
How are we as husbandmen cultivating the vineyard in our own
State ? The oft-repeated prayer is, " Send more laborers into the
vineyard." If God were to send more laborers, He would not
commission ravens to feed them. I suppose God knows we have
more laborers than we are sustaining. It is not laborers alone we
need. We need more of the spirit of Christ, who " became poor,
that we through his poverty might be rich."
The laborers in the State of Alabama could occupy and in the
name of Jesus evangelize or teach the people of the State the way
of life, if they had the co-operation of the one hundred thousand
Baptists in Alabama.
In my opinion, our virtually withdrawing from direct co-ope-
ration with the Board, or reducing our territory and proposing to
occupy our Association, and do Mission work in our own bounds^
has been detrimental to the success of Mission work in our Asso-
ciation. John A. Scott.
F.
Documents.
We recommend the Alabama Baptist, published at Selma, Ala.,
as our own State paper. The Christian Index, published at At-
lanta, Ga. The Home and Foreign Journal, published at Rich-
mond, Va. Kind Words, Macon, Ga. And last but not least,
the Baptist, published at Memphis Tenn. And, that the brethren
take and read them, ,
J. A. Scott, Chairmrn.
G.
Finance.
Received for Minutes |46 40
Received for Home Missions, Harmony Church 10 00
Received for Foreign Missions, Harmony Church 5 00
Collection on Sabbath 21 50
Received for Elder H. A. Williams for services rendered in
the year 1878 7 95
Total |90 85
T. K. Tkotteb, Chairman.
MINUTES. 17
H.
Deceased Ministers.
We had hoped to be able to report the preservation, through the
kind providence of God, of all the ministers of our Association,
but during the present session of this body we have received the
sad intelligence of the death of one of the servants of God, in the
person of Elder Wiley Woodall, who departed this life on Satur-
day, the 4th inst.
" Servant of God, well done ;
Rest from thy loved employ :
The battle fought, the victory won,
Enter thy Master's joy.
May God cheer the bereaved heart, and sanctify this dispensa-
tion of Providence to the good of His cause.
J. A. GiiENN, Chairman.
I.
Treasurer' s Report.
For Home Missions, last Associtaion $24 55
" Home Missions, Harmony Church . 10 00
" Foreign Missions, Harmony Church. 5 00
" Elder H. A. Williams, Contributions 19 40
" Missions, contributed on Sabbath 21 50
From Finance Committee, for Minutes 46 40
Total $126 85
E. Roberts, Treasurer.
J.
Oorrespo7hding Letter.
Dear Brethren — We were glad to welcome your correspond-
ing messengers to seats with us. We hope the Christian inter-
course between us will be continued, and as a testimonial of our
desire we have re-appointed messengers lo your bodies, whose
names appear on our minutes.
We have indeed had a pleasant and harmonious session, and
we trust it will result in great good to the cause of our blessed
Redeemer.
The next session of our body will convene with Liberty church,
eighteen miles above, or east of Jacksonville, Ala., on the Selma,
Rome and Dalton Railroad. May God bless your sessions with,
peace and success.
W. H. Burton, J. F. Potper,
Clerk.. Moderator..
t2
CONSTITUTION OF THE TALLASAHATCHEE
AND TEN ISLAND ASSOCIATION.
Article 1. The Association must be composed of members chosen
from the different churches in our Union, aad duly sent to repre-
sent them in the Association, who shall be members whom they
ji:di;e best qualified for the purpose; who, on producing letters
from their respective churches certifying their appointment, shall
be entitled to seats.
2. In the letters from the churches in our Union shall be ex-
pressed their numbers in fellowship, those baptized, received by
letter, dismissed by letter, excommunicated, restored and dead,
since the last Association.
3. The members thus chosen and convened shall be known by
the name of the Tallasahatchee and Ten Island Baptist Associa-
tion, and shall have no power to lord it over God's heritage, nor
shall they have any clerical power over the churches, nor shall
they infringe upon any of the internal rights of any church or
churches of the Union.
4. The Association, when convened, shall be governed by a
proper rule of decorum.
5. The Association shall have a Moderator and a Clerk, who
shdll be chosen by the suffrages of the members present.
6. New churches may be admitted into this Union, who shall
petition by letter and delegates, and upon examination, if found
orthodox and orderly, shall be received by this Association, and
manifested by the Moderator giving the right hand of fellowship
to the delegates.
7. Every church in this Union shall be entitled to three repre-
sentatives in the Association.
8. No query shall come into the Association without first being de-
bated in the churches from whence it came, when, if it still remains a
diflJculty with the church, it shall be received by the Association, such
queries excepted which concern our Union.
9. Every motion made and seconded shall come under the consid-
eration of the Association, except it be withdrawn by the member who
gave it.
-0. The Association shall endeavor to furnish the churches with the
Minutes of her proceedings, being furnished with money by the
churches for that purpose.
11. The Minutes of the Association shall be read (and corrected If
need be) and signed by the Moderator and Clerk before the Associa-
tion rises.
12. Amendments to this form of government may be made at any
time by a majority of the Union when they deem it necessary.
13. The Association shall have power, —first, to provide for the gen-
eral union of the churches.
Second. — To preserve inviolate a chain of communication among the
churches.
Third. — To give the churches advice in different cases.
Fourth. — To inquire why any church fails to represent herself at any
time in the Association.
MINUTES. 19
Fifth. — To appoint any member or members, by and with his or her
■consent, to transact any business they may deem necessary,
Sixth. — To withdraw from any church in this Union which shall
violate the rules of this Association or deviate from the orthodox prin-
ciples of government.
Seventh. — To adjourn themselves to such further time and place as
they may think most convenient to the churches.
ABSTRACT OF PRUSTCIPLES.
I. We believe in one only true and living God, the Father, the Son
and Holy Spirit, and these three are one.
3. We believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are
the word of God, and are, therefore, the only rule of faith and prac-
tice.
3. We believe in the doctrine of Election, and that God chose his
people in Christ before the foundation of the world, through sancti-
fication of the Spirit and belief of the truth.
4. We believe the doctrine of original sin.
5. We believe in man's impotency to recover himself from the fallen
state he is in by nature, by his own ability.
6. We believe that sinners are justified in the sight of God, only by
the merits of Christ by imputation.
7. We believe the saints will persevere in grace and never finally
fall away-
8. We believe that baptism and the Lord's supper are ordinances of
Jesus Christ, and that true believers are the subjects ; and that the
true mode of baptism is by immersion.
9. We believe in the resurrection of the dead and the general judg-
ment.
10. We believe the punishment of the wicked will be everlasting,
and the joys of the righteous eternal.
II. We believe that no person has a right to the administration of
the ordinances but those who are regularly baptized, called, and come
under the imposition of hands by a Presbytery.
12. We believe that none but regularly baptized members have a
ight to commune at the Lord's table.
RULES OF DECORUM.
1. The Association shall be opened and closed by prayer.
2. A Moderator and Clerk chosen by the suffrages of the members
present.
3. The Moderator shall be deemed a judge of order, and shall have
the right to call to order at any time.
4. Any member not satisfied with his decision on any point of order
may appeal to the Association on the same day, but at no other time.
5. But one person shall speak at a time, and he shall rise to his feet,
and, on obtaining leave, proceed to speak, not exceeding fifteen min-
utes at any one time, without leave of the Association.
6. The Moderator, when addressed for leave to speak, shall signify
the same by naming him, or otherwise.
7. No member shalt be interrupted while speaking, unless he depart
from the subject in hand, or use words of personal reflection; and
every motion made and seconded shall come under the consideration of
the Association, except it be withdrawn by him who made it.
8. Every case taken up by the Association shall be first decided on
or withdrawn before others are offered.
9. When anything is taken up by the Association, after allowing
20
MINUTES.
time for debate, the Moderator shall take the question by yeas and
nays.
10. The Moderator shall pronounce the decision of the body imme-
diately after it is decided.
11. No person shall depart the services of the Association without
leave.
12. The appellation of brother shall be used in our addresses to one-
another.
13. The names of the members shall be called as often as the Asso-
ciation may direct.
14. No member shall be allowed to indulge in any practice that has
a tendency to interrupt in time of a public speech.
15. The Moderator shall be entitled to the same privileges of speech
as any other member, provided he appoint some other to his seat while
he is speaking; but shall not vote unless the Association be equally
divided.
16. Any member breaking this Decorum shall be reproved at the
discretion of the Association, but only on the day on which the breach
is made.
17 All cases coming before the Association shall be decided by a
majority of the members present, except the reception of churches
into our union, which shall be unanimous.
NAMES AND POST-OFFICES OF MINISTERS.
OKDAINED.
J. F. PoTTEK, Moderator
W. H Burton, Clerk
J. A. Scott Davisville, Ala
M. Garrett DeArmonville, Ala
J. A. Glenn Peek's Hill, Ala
Wm. Taylor Centre, Ala
E. T. Read Jacksonville, Ala
L. Best Gadsden, Ala
W. H. Moon Centre, Ala
O. D. McNealy..Howeirs X Roads
White Plains, Ala
Pleasant Gap, Ala
W. M. E. Wilson Centre, Ala
H. A. Williams..Cross Plains, Ala
E. Wilson Centre, Ala
T K. Trotter Peek's Hill, Ala
E. A. Hall Kirk's Grove, Ala
H. S. Jones Howell's X Roads
S. E. Dykes Forney, Ala
lilCENTIATES.
J. V. Rhodes Chocolocco, Ala
W. H Stephens. ..Cave Spring, Ga
W. J. Durham. ...Cave Spring, Ga
T. S. Nabors Cross Plains, Ala
S. C. McCain Cross Plains, Ala
L. A. Best Gadsden, Ala
C. Best Gadsden, Ala
W. I. Gardner Centre, Ala
S. J. Hare Cave Spring, Ga
Z. T. Deberry.... Howell's X Roads
Jas. M. Deberry, Howell's X R'ds
Joseph K. Neyman Key, Ala
J. A. Logan Mt. Polk, Ala
J. L Harrison Chocolocco, Ala
J. A. Graham Centre, Ala
H. A. Strain Cave Spring, Ga
Received of W. H. Burton $31.40 for printing eight hundred copies
of this Minute. Jas. P. Harrison & Co,
TABULAR STATEMENT OF CHURCHES.
CHURCHES.
POST-OFFICE.
PASTORS.
CLERKS
tui
a
la
n
•23
I-"
■a"S
(3
■2
0
H
W
1
1
"i
•0
u
0
1
...
2
SI
0
1
0.2
3 a
t
Ten Island.
Peek's HiU, Ala
Peek's Hill, "
Jacksonville, "
Mount Polk, "
Gadsden, ■'
Gadsden, ''
JaeksonvlUe, " .
"iV. Woodall
W. R. Akridge
i
1
1
8
2
8
9
8
5
27
3
10
18
1
8
6
7
8
1
$1 50
3 00
2 00
1 15
fi?
^i
T. K. Trotter
W. G. Duke
1?(l
Mt. Gilead
W. Woodall
U. A. J. HoUingsworth
A. W. Kirby
183S
1856
1857
80
^
W. Woodall .„
81
6'
Pilgrim's Rest
J. R. Trotter
84
L. Best
F. M. Palmer
21
H
Ohatohle
E. T. Read
P. Bailey _
1878
4
B
1
....
1 25
?5
r^
Chocolocco. "
Davlsville, "
White Plains, "
Rabbit Town; "
Jacksonville, "
Jacksonville, "
Cross Plains, ''
Jacksonville, "
Cross Plains, ''
Spring Garden, "
Pleasant Gap, '■
Forney, "
J. A. Scott
G. H. Wagnon
1838
1876
2
8
4
4
1
3
a 4
2
1
3
1
1
18
"■■3
2
1
8
11
4
2
5
5
2
5
19
12
"2
2
1
8
1
3
"i
"2
2
2
3
2
3 00
2 00
2 50
2 00
107
Shlloh
J. F. Potter
W. A. Wood „
A. N. Ward
42
S^
Zlon HUl
J. A. Seott
96
Rabbit Town
W. E. Mountain
1836
1865
1871
1870
1871
1841
1853
1839
1878
1838
1858
.860
1866
1837
1849
1860
1845
1876
90
n
Nance's Creek
29
E, T. Read
"i
"2
1 00
1 50
2 00
2 40
1 50
8 00
1 25
44
H. A. Williams
M.T Ledbetter,
■■■■5
2
5
1
16
""e
4
12
6
2
1
10
6
12
"i
1
2
48
J. F. Potter
D. D. Nabors
60
ffl
Pisgah
J. F. Potter
E. T. Read
E. F. Rice
66
o.
Mt. Zion
J A. Ellis
66
^
Liberty
J. A. Scott
142
Pilgrim's Rest
V. A. Brewster
J W.Baker
19
55
Centre, "
Howell's X Roads, " . ...
Forney, "
Howell's X Roads, "
Forne.v, "
Cave Spring, Ga
Centre, Ala
Centre, "
W. M. Wilson „
W. M. Wilson
2
4
4
3
2
1
4
1
10
— j
1
3
1
7
8
1
12
"i
5
4
3
"2
i
1
"4
....
'2
i 06
1 00
2 00
2 60
1 76
2 00
1 70
76
70
,53
H
Sandy Creek
Thos. Hollis
W. M. WUson
70
M
Friendship
11
a
12
10
16
12
3
98
Bethel
M. J. Abemathy
63
H
Nazareth
E A. Hall
J W. Canfleld
74
t;;
Centre
48
Pleasant Valley
W M. Wilson
J F. Wester
39
PrOTldence
. ..
124
156
18
16
t3
135'2T
$43 76
1832
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