*iMm BAPHsr ffiSTOWCAl SOaiiTJ
MINUTES
OF THE
Fourteenth annual Session
OF THE
MONTGOMER.Y BaPTIOT AsSOSIATION,
HELD WITH
HAYNEVILLE CHURCH, HAYNEVILLE, LOWNDES CO., fill.,
July 16. 17, 18, 1895.
OFFICERS.
T L. JONES, Moderator Montgomerj-, Ala,
J. C. POPE, Clerk Montgomery, Ala.
J. H. DICKSON, Treasurer Pine Level, Ala.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
J. H. Dickson, Pine Level. W. B. David.son, Montgomery.
Geo. W. Ei.i.is. Montgomery. J. C. Pope, Montgomery.
J. B. Gerald, Montgomery.
COMMITTEES TO REPORT AT NEXT SESSION.
On Home Missions-C. Johnson, J. B. Bell, F. V. Battle.
Foreign Missions— Geo. B Eager, J. G. Harris, C. A. Gunn.
Sunday Schooi-s— W. B. Davidson, J. R. McLendon, R. H. Hudson.
Temperance— Geo. W. Townsend, G. W. Johnson, J. R. Rogers.
Dknominatio.nai. Education— P. N. Cilley, C. V. Collier, J. T. Boyd.
State Board of Missions— E. F. Baber, Joseph Norwood, G. G. Long.
Ministerial Education— S. J. Catts, J. E. Jones. J. G. Mills.
Woman's Work— W. J. Elliott, F. S. Andress, C. C. Edwards,
Orphans' Home— B. A. Jackson, J. L. Thomp.son, J. B. Collier,
Indigent Mini.ster.s— A. F. Goldsmith, W. G. Worrell, W. P. Daw.-jon.
Baptist Young Peoples' Union— W. L. Chandler, W'. E. Lacy, (;. C.Jordan.
New and Weak Churc:hes— Wm. D. Gay, J. H. Dickson, Geo. \V. Ellis.
The next se.ssion will be held Ang. 18-21, 1896, (Tuesday after the third Sunday) with I
the Wetumpka Baptist Church.
Sunday School and B. Y. P. I', workers are invited to hold sessions on evening of I
the 17th (Monday), and one hour on morning of the 18th (Tuesday).
ALABAMA PRINTING CO., MONTGOMERY, ALA.
NAMES AND POSTOFFICES OF MINISTERS.
Geo. B Eager Montgomery, Ala.
Wm D. Gay
W. J. Elliott ^
*J. Falkner
J. L. Thompson
John Bass Shelton
G. W. Townsend
C. Johnson
E. F. Bnber
B. A. Jackson Ramer,
J. R. Caldwell Dearsville,
W. G. Sullivant Raif Branch,
N A. Moore .Oenter Point,
S. J. Catts Ft. Deposit,
R. M. Burt
F. M. TtoUins ". Prattville,
A. F. Goldsmith. ■. Ft. Deposit,
*Died April 22, 189.5.
ASSOCIATION DISTRICTS.
First District — Bethany, Coosada. Deatsville, Good Hope, Mt. Hebron,
Prattville, Shoal Creek, Wetumpka.
Second District— Bethel, Hayneville, Lowndesboro, Mt. Lebanon, Mt.
Zion, Pine Level.
Third District— Adams Street, Bethesda, First Montgomery, Friend-
ship, Philadelphia, Ramer, West Montgomery.
ORDER OF BUSINESS.
1. Association called to order b\' Moderator.
2. Appoint Committee on Credentials.
3. Fix time of meeting and adjourning.
4. Introductory sermon.
5. Elect Moderator, Clerk and Treasurer.
6. Receive correspondents and visitors.
7. Receive petitions from Churches desiring* membership.
8. Appoint committees to report during session —
On Religious Exercises.
On Finance and Auditing.
On Nominations.
On Apportionment.
9. Read rules of order.
10. Hear reports from committees and treasurer.
11. Return correspondence.
12. Appoint committees to report at next meeting —
On Home Missions.
On Foreign Missions.
On Sunday Schools.
On Temperance.
On Denominational Education.
On Sta»e Board of Missions.
On Ministerial Education.
On Indigent Ministers.
On Woman's Work.
On Orphans' Home.
On Baptist Young Peoples' Union.
On New and Weak Churches.
13. Hear miscellaneous business.
14. Call roll and erase absentees.
15. Arrange for printing minutes.
16. Correct minutes and a(flourn.
NAMES AND ADDRESSES
OF MINISTERS.
Geo. E. Brewer Montgomery, Ala
R. H. Hudson Millbrook,
C. A. Stakely Montgomery,
H. W . Provence
W. J. Elliott
G. W. Townsend
W. N. Gunter
A. F. Dix
B. A. Jackson Ramer,
J. R. Caldwell Prattville,
A. J. Preston "
W. G. Sullivant
O. F. Gregory Montgomery,
S. M. Provence "
H. R. Schramm Deatsville,
D. P. Lee Montgomery,
J. A. Jenkins "
ORDER
OF BUSINESS
I. Call to order by Moderator.
n. Enrollment of Messengers
III. Election of Officers.
IV. Call for Petitionary Letters.
V. Receive Correspondents and Visitors.
VI. Introductory Sermon.
VII. Appoint Commmittees to Report During Session.
1. On Religious Exercises.
2. On Finance and Auditing.
3. On Nominations.
4. On Appointment.
VIII. Report of Standing Committees.
1. Indigent Ministers.
2. New and Weak Churches.
3. Denominational Literature.
4. Denominational Education.
5. Ministerial Education.
6. Orphanage.
7. Sunday Schools.
8. Woman's Work.
9. Missions— State, Home and Foreign.
10. B. Y. U. P. •
11. Temperance.
IX. Treasurer's Report.
X. Report of Special Committees.
XI. Hear and Correct Minutes and Roll.
XII. Miscellaneous Business.
DVCHsTTTTIES.
TUESDAY, JULY i6, 1895.
MORNING SESSION.
The Montgomery Baptist Association assembled in its Four-
teenth Annual Session with Hayneville Baptist church, Hayneville,
Ala., at 10 o'clock a. m. Tuesday, July 16, 1895, Moderator T. L.
Jones in the chair; J. C. Pope, Clerk.
Prayer service conducted by Eld. J. L. Thompson, of Clayton
Street church, Montgomery, who read the 90th Psalm. Song,
after which Eld. C. Johnson, of South Montgomery church, led
in prayer.
Moderator appointed the following
Committee on Credentials — C. A. Gunn, Fort Deposit; J. H. Dickson,
Pine Level; J. R. McLendon, Naftel.
On motion of Eld. W. J. Elliott, Moderator appointed com-
mittee to supply vicancies on Programme, consisting of G. S.
Anderson, F. S. Andress and J. F. Varner.
The hour for preaching having arrived. Eld. G. S. Anderson
read a part of the 5th chapter of Matthew in connection with the
nth chapter of Acts, after which Eld. S. J. Catts preached the
Introductory Sermon from the latter clause of Acts 11:26.
Eld. G. S. Anderson welcomed the Association to Hayneville.
After a song, adjourned to meet at 2 o'clock p. m.
AFTERNOON SESSION.
The Association met at 2 o'clock. Song.
Several changes in programme were reported through Eld G.
S. Anderson, and, on motion of Eld. W. J. Elliott, the report was
adopted.
Devotional exercises were conducted by Eld. John W. Stewart.
Prayer by Eld. C. Johnson. Sang two stanzas of hymn 63.
The Committee on Credentials reported as follows:
CHUECHES AXD DELEGATES.
Adams Street— J. C. Pope, A. P. Wilson.
Bethany — Letter; no delegate.
Bethel— Eld. S. J. Catts, J. E. Bishop, C. A. Gunn, Willie Hawkins, M. B.
Goldsmith, Eld. A. S. Goldsmith, Graves Little, John Thigpen.
Betbesda — Not represented.
Clayton Street (formerly West Montgomery) — Eld. J. L. Thompson.
Coosada — Not represented.
Deatsville — Letter; no delegate.
First Montgomery— Eld. G. W. Towusend, J. G. Harris, T. L. Jones.
Friendship — Letter; no delegate.
Good Hope — Not represented — (Asked for letter to join Unity Associ-
ation.)
Hayneville — Eld. G. S. Anderson. F. S. Andress, J. F. Varner.
Lowndesboro — W. R. Meadows, R. Meadows, J. T. Dickson.
Mt. Hebron — J. E,. Roger.^i, R. B. James.
Mt. Lebanon — Not represented.
Mt. Zior— G. W. Johnson, J. G. Mills.
Philadelphia — Letter; no delegate.
Pine Level— J. H. Dickson, F. V. Battle, G A. Phelps.
Prattville — W Hie A^^derson, Joel Dennis, Walter Meek.
Ramer — Eld. B. A. Jackson, J. R. McLendon.
Shoal Creek — Not represented.
Wet impka— Eld. W. J. Elliott, C. C. Edwards, W. E. Lacy.
Received correspondents as follows:
Baptist State Board of Missions — Eld. W. B. Crumpton.
Baptist Orphanage — Eld. John W. Stewart.
Judson Female Institute — Dr. S. W. Averett.
Central Association — Elds. C J. Beutley, T. P. Moon.
Conecuh Association— Eld. A. T. Sims.'
Selma Associaion — Eld. J. E. Barnes.
Troy Association — Eld. A. E. Pinckard.
Petition for membership from the South Montgomery church
was presented by Eld. C. Johnson and J. E Brooks, as fol-
lows :
The South Montgomery Baptist Church,
To the Montgomery Association:
De.ar Brethren: We, a regular Baptist church, having covenanted to do
all things taught us in the New Testament, and being regularly organized,
after adopting the .Articles of Faith common to all Missionary Baptist
churches, do, through our delegates, seek membership in your honorable
body .
South Montgomery Baptist Church, Montgomery, Ala.
whereupon the Moderator, on motion, extended the represent-
atives of the new church the right hand of fellowship.
The present officers of the Association, T. L Jones, Moderator;
J. C. Pope, Clerk, and J. H. Dickson, Treasurer, were, upon mo-
tion of Eld. W. J. Elliott, re-elected, Eld. A S. Goldsmith casting
the ballot.
Eld. B. A. Jackson, chairman, read the
REPORT ON HOME MISSIONS.
Notwithstanding the hard times through which we have passed, and are
passing, the Board has done more the last conventional year than in any
year previous, except the Centennial. Tnis success is attributable in a
large measure to the earnest appeals of the Corresponding Secretary and
the faithful and efl&cient work done by the secretaries of tne Stae Boards.
The work that has been accomplished is gratifying to all who desire the sal-
vation rf souls. ■ The following is a summarj' of the work done: Cash
receipts S.sS,640 20, being $15,311) 29 larger tlian last year. The Board bpgan
the year with a debt of ,$6,7(33 54, has paid on a house of worship in New Or-
leans $9,476.50, and 'or church buildings at other places $2,380.62, a total of
$11,862 12.
There has been an increase of missionaries of nearly 12 per cent; of re-
ceipts, 20 per cent, and of baptisms, 32 per cent.
Present number of missionaiies 425
Weeks of labor 11,466
Churches and stations 3,484
Sermons and addresses 46,620
Praj'er-meetings 5,774
Baptisms 5,921
Received bv letter 6,519
Total additions 10,564
Sunday-schools 2.110
Teachers and pupils 23,702
Religious visits 52,089
Churches constituted 178
Houses of worship built 52
Bibles and Testaments distributed 7,392
Tracts distributed 584,988
We earnestly solicit larger contributions from all the churches in the
Montgomery Association.
We recommend monthly coUeclions on the envelope plan.
Respectfully submitted,
B. A. Jackson, Chairman.
which was discussed by brethren Crumpton, Stewart, Elliott,
Jones and Townsend, and adopted.
The Association voted to meet at 3 p. m. to-morrow instead of
at 2 o'clock.
J. G. Harris, chairman, offered the following
REPORT OX TEMPERANCE.
There is no question of more vital importance to the people of the union
than the liquor question. The ravages, the wreck, the ruin that it is carry-
ing in its wake are enough to arouse to action the most indifferent, ^nd to
draw forth from every father and mother an earnest condemnation and op-
position. In scaneing the entire catalogue of evils thit afflict our country,
none are more universal or dreadful. The financial, the tariif, the immi-
gration and like questions dwindle into absolute insignificance in the pres-
ence of the drink evil Everything vicious, everything criminal, breeds in
the saloon . Disease itself is mothered by this murderess, who digs every
twelve months no less than one hundred tbou.?and graves for the people of
this country. Say what you will, apologize as you may, the saloon is the
commissioned agent of perdition. It begets the drunkard, the drunkard
begets drunkenness, and drunkenness begets the whole shameless progeny
of crime and squallor under which society staggers to-day.
The saloon is hell's organized defence agai'ist heaven. While it stands
open, labor organizations must prove, as they have already proved, a failure
to accjmplish good results; for this office of the devil is the ruin of the
workingman rather than the capitalist. It is the hole in the workingman's
pocket, through which he loses his daily earnings; it is the tbi»f that has
robbed the workingman of this country alone of five millions of dollars
every twelve months. Oaly as this evil is displaced can reform be made
permanent. Abolish the saloon end y u have solved nine-tenths of the
great social problems that confront us tt)-day. The saloon-keeper is the en-
emy of the home, of societ}', of the State; he is Satan's soldier warring
against man and God. Let the law, therefore, declare him a criminal whose
business it is to create crime and produce criminals.
The robber's demand is, "Your money or your life," but the saloon man's
is "Your money and your life" — and your character and everything else;
and in return for this goes back to the poor, cursed wretch what is infi-
nitely worse than nothing.
As law p'otects the saloon, it encourages ih". vice that is cf all others the
most fruitful source of crime, and as law makes the saloon more respecta-
ble, it makes it easier for the devil to get at the man, and easier for the man
to get to the devil. License laws, says a distinguished man, arm saloons
and disarms society. They make the saloon the nation's ward, and so make
drunkards a financial support to the State. Wipe out the saloon, and at the
same time you would dismiss seven-eighths of your police force, close three-
fourths of your courts, and make useless four-fifths of your asylums and
prisons. This would be a humane and sure road to revenue. The license
law, continues this writer, is as criminal as it is absurd. It makes robbing
legal, and the products of robbing a source of revenue to the State. It legal-
izes a business that, in order to pay to the government its share of the prof
its, must make drunkards, and th«^refore j^roduces all the evils connected
with drunkenness. Then the State proceeds to imprison the criminals who
support the saloon, to hang the murderers who would not be murderers but
for the saloon ; to support the paupers produced by the saloon ; and thus the
license law links the State to the saloon in the business of producing as well
as punishing crime.
What is wrong in principle cannot be made right in any way, and when
low sanctions evil, the law itself becomes an evil. It is agreed that a State
that accepts a revenue for protecting the liquor traffic becomes partlccps
crhiiinis in the business; that for every dollar this traffic gives the State in
revenue, it demands back seven more to repair the damage wrought The
more this tariff contributes lo the State, the more taxes it imposes upon the
State, which taxes must be collected from the people. Such are some of the
arguments.
But the question, "What are the people going to do about it?" is a practi-
cal question, and should not be ignored or dodged. Let the issue come in
some form or other and meet it with aunitedChrisKan etfort. The churches
could wipe out this evil from the face of the world if there was an honest,
faithful, united action. While the saloon exists, every religious organiza-
tion is handicapped, for it is the devil's bulwark against the work of the
Holy Ghost. It paralyzes the appeals of the gospel, and it is corrupting the
civilization nourished at the altars of our common religion.
God's church, which was the cradle of temperance reform, must be the
battle-field of its victory. It is the business of God's church to follow the
lead of no one, and it should take the lead for every one.
It is said, and who will deny it? that the inconsistencies of church members
are spiking the guns of the churches in this reform. By the tolerance of
Christians and their friends, this wretched business exists to-day. Minis-
ters, elders, stewards, deacons, members vote for drunkards for public office.
Have you not seen States disgraced by having drunken governors and other
officials? If you have not, you will see it, if certain aspirants for office are
put in high places.
Brethren, in the name of God, and in behalf of the young men of our
land, we appeal to you to strive for the overthrow of the liquor traffic. Ex-
amine into the character of every aspirant for office, from governor down,
and do not vote for any man that gets drunk or gambles. Our honor, integ-
rity and safety as a Slate depends upon it, and our Christian vows claim it
of us. Therefore, be it
Resolved, That each church in this Association is hereby requested to set
apart at least one Sunday during the associational year, at which time the
temperance question shall be the topic for discussion.
Resolved, further, That the Montgomery Baptist Association plants itself
squarely and unconditionally on the anti-liquor platform, and we pledge
ourselves to do what we can to destroy this evil.
Respectfully submitted,
J. G. Harris, Chairman.
Discussed by brethren Anderson, Crumpton, Harris, Bentley,
Goldsmith, Catts, Gunn, Thompson, Bishop, Elliott, Jones and
Townsend, and adopted unanimously by a rising vote.
On motion. Rev. P. C. Morton, pastor of the Presbyterian
church, was invited to a seat in the Association.
On motion, adjourned, the Moderator announcing that Eld. C.
J. Bentley would preach at 8:15 to-night.
NIGHT SESSION.
The Association, pursuant to adjournment, met at 80'cloc'.
After a song, Eld. C. J. Bentley, of the Central Association,
preached from i Tim. 1:15.
The Moderator announced committees on —
Finance — Graves Little, A. P. Wilson, J. E. Bishop.
Nominations — Sidney Catts, W. E Lacy. J. G. Mills.
Apportionment — R. Meadows, J. R. McLendon, G. W. Johnson.
Adjourned to meet at 9:30 o'clock Wednesday morning.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 17.
MORNING SESSION.
The Association met at 9:30 o'clock, and was led in prayer
service by Eld. B. A. Jackson.
Minutes of previous day's sessions were read and approved.
Report on Foreign Missions was read by Clerk in absence ot
Eld. Wm. D. Gay, chairman, and laid on table for discussion this
afternoon :
REPORT ON FOREIGN MISSIONS.
The contributions for Foreign Missions last year were over $130,000, by far
the largest amount ever given for the regular work. While the Board is
sfiil nearly $'20,000 in debt, it has no interest to pay on $9,200, which con-
stitutes the Chapel Fund. It is a significant fact that 92 cents on the dol-
lar goes to the missionaries, only 8 cents on the dollar being used for all ex-
penses. This is a fact that should be made known to all who speak of the ex-
pense of sending money to the missionaries.
A great work was done by those under the employ of the Board, showing
itself in the 518 baptisms, among which was the baptism of an intelligent
Romanist in Brazil, Horatio B. Ottoni, a recent canon and man of power.
It is hoped that he will prove to be another Diaz.
We have missionaries in Italy, Brazil, and Mexico among the Romanists;
and in Africa, Japan and China among the pagans.
We gave in this Association last year a little over 10 cents a member to
this great work. This is a very small showing for obedience to the great
commission to '"Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel." When
we consider the great need, that in China alone a ''million a month" is go-
ing away into everlasting punishment because of their sins, and that they
have no knowledge of our Savior, it should bestir us to greater liberality.
What we need is increased liberality first, and increased number of givers
second, and more systematic methods to get this increased liberality and
number of givers. Brethren, let me appeal to you for the coming year that
you get more small gifts from the children and young people for this great
cause.
Respectfully submitted,
W.M. D. G.\Y, Chairman.
6
Committee on Sunday Schools, through its chairman, P. N.
Cilley, made its report, which, on motion, was laid on the table to
be discussed with report on New and Weak Churches :
REPORT ON SUNDAY SCHOOLS.
Your Committee on Sunday Schools beg leave to make the following re-
port:
For several years there has been a steadily increasing interest in the Sun-
day Schools of our denomination, as shown in new schools organized where
none existed previously; in a larger enrollment; in a more punctual attend-
ance; in a more abundant supply and improved character of liteiature to
assist in expounding the Scripture lessons; and, perhaps, more than all, in
the fact that a laig^ p-rcentage of the increased enrollment and attendance
consists of adult members of the church.
During the last twelve months in all the rciis;ious fields witbin the pur-
view of the Southern Baptist Convention Sunday School work has moved
on with giant strides, br ladening and deepeniijg its ittiuence in the
Master's cause.
The financial stringency of that period had prepared us to expect at least
a shrinkage in the reventie from Sunday Schools; and yet, in tbe report of
the Sunday School Board, made lo tiie Southern Baptist Convention at
Washington, we are surprised and delighted to find that the cash receipts
of the Board for the year have been $53 034 52 as against $48,539 16 for the
previous year. An increase of $4 495 36— besides $4,975. 07 received from tbe
"Missionary Day'' collections in the Sui day Schools. Increase all told,
$9,470 43.
This Board further says, "There has also come to us from many quarters
testimony as to the good being done for the souls of the children, and for
their development in Cbristian work."
In the disbursement of these fnnd-i the Board has contTibuted for Sunday
School Work mainly through tbe Conventions of the States — in T< xas,
Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Lousiana, North Carolina,
Western North Carolina, North Geo'gia, and Tennessee — $3,375,00 in cash,
ranging in sums from $200 to $1000, in the different States It also con-
tributed $1 000 in cash to the Foreign Mission Board for Bible schools in
foreign fields.
Contribtitions of Sunday School literature of the very best character have
been made in all the Convention States, as well as in Oklahoma and Oregon,
and in foreign fields, to churches and Sunday Schools, b :)th whiie and
colored, to the value of $1,190.49.
In Mississippi 32 new schools have bf^en organized, with an enrollment of
3,000.
In Tennessee, about 70 new schools, some of thetn in neighborhoods
where Sunday Schools never existed before.
In Texas, 200 new schools, and thousands of families furnished with
Bibles and Testaments.
Bible distribution throughout the convention field has been a prominent
feature in the work of the Board. No call made for Bibles or Testaments
by a needy Sta'e Mission, Sunday School Board, Church, Sunday School, or
individual, has been denied And in this oranch of the work $351.34 has
been expended. Thus you see how the little contributions gathered in our
Sunday Schools, becoming aggregated, speedily find their way to the needy
people and schools, fostering God's favorite helper in the salvation of souls.
Can you conceive of the blessings tiat aie caught in the rebound, by these
children who are contributing to their Savior's cause '? If in nothing else,
how r'ch the return in being trained in free giving!
The Committee on Sunday Schools, in their report to our last State Con-
vention, says: "We have in Alabama about 1,600 Baptist churches, and
over 109,000 communicants. We ought to have 1,700 Sunday Schools, with
an enrollment of 125,000. But, as a matter of fact, we have only about 700
schools, with an enrollment of 30,000."
7
Nine hundred Baptist churches in Alabama with no Sunday Schools !
We ought to have in realitj' an enrollment in this State of 200,000 in our
Sunday Schools, for the reason that every communicant ought to be him-
self connected with tbe school, and punctual in his attendance.
Can churches expect prosperity without tedching the rising generation
God's word '' Do they say we can teach them this outside of the Sunday
Schools? Do you do it ? No, jou know you don't. You have not done it
as vou ousht, and you cannot do it as effectually as in the Sunday School.
Your committee fully endorse the declaration of the Convention Com-
mittee, when they say, "As Christians, and as Baptists, we cannot afford
this state of things to contintte."
How can it be CO rected ? Let our pastors and live laymen determine
that there shall be ©'giniz^d a Sunday School in the district occupied by
every Baptist church in Alab ima, and in some of them more than one.
Establish schools wherever practicable. Arouse interest on this subject
among the people, especially among those connected with our churches.
Let it ba understood that in no other way can so much be done to advance
the cause of our Master, and the prosperity of our churches.
Your committee are inclined to the opinion that more missionary funds
would, ultimately, be rfalized from Sundaj' School rallies than from any
other kind of rally; for the simple reason that this is an ever increasing
source of reveaue, multiplying and augmenting in fruitfulness year by
year.
Enrolled upon the books of the Montgomery Association are 21 churches,
located in the most desirable section of tbe State in ^hich to plant the seed
of the Word, and cultivate, expecting to reap a rich harvest from Sunday
School work. Yet your committee can report only 14 churches that have
Sunday Schools that are organized and at work. Eight churches in this
Afsociation with no Sunday Schools! We report the statistics of those
schools organizf^d and at worfe as far as possible, showing them to be in a
prosperous cmdition.
We hope for an improved showing at the end of the next associational
year.
In the Baptist year book for 1895, the author says: "The Sunday School
statistics of the South have never been collected." We can well believe
this from personal experience.
If the brethren would all make full reports and respond as promptly as
do some, the work of your committees would be comparatively light, and
much more satisfactory.
There are 14 superintendents, all members of the church; 121 teachers;
475 adults in the schools; 873 children in the schools; 507 members of the
churches; 1,4G0 in the entire enrollment of the churches. There was raised
in this associational year $8.33 21 for the churches.
P. X. CiLLEY, Chairman.
Committee on New and Weak Churches made its report
through Eld. VVm D. Gay, Clerk reading the same in the absence
of the chairman :
REPORT ON NEW AND WEAK CHURCHES.
Your committee went zealously to work. The chairman, with Bro. Jesse
H. Dickson and Rev. J. W. Stewart, took his tent to LaPine and conducted a
series of meetings, which resulted in great good, and it is hoped a perma-
nent church will he the outcome, which will report at this session of the
Association.
We also wrote a number of letters to weak churches, asking co-operation
and reports, and offered to help them if they desired us.
The chairman saw finally developed (amidst opposition by some) the
South Montgomery Mission into the South Montgomery Church, whose
magnificent report of thirty-two members and what they have accomplished
m
you have before you. It is a sister cbnrch of which we will all feel proud,
and God is graciously blessing her, and the future success is assured.
Respectfully submitted,
Wm. D. Gay, Chairman.
The two reports were spoken to by brethren Cilley, Dickson,
Anderson, Elliott, Pinckard and Catts. Further discussion this
afternoon.
Leave of absence was granted the delegates of the South Mont-
gomery church to return home.
At 11:30 Eld. J. L. Thompson, in the absence of Dr. Geo. B.
Eager, appointee, preached the Missionary Sermon, using as a
text Matthew 24:14. Collection for missions, amountingto $[1.40.
Dr S. W. Averett, president of the Judson Female Institute,
spoke of the many advantages of that excellent school.
Sang two stanzas of hymn 204, after which adjourned until 3
p. m., with benediction by Bro. Thompson.
AFTERNOON SESSION.
The Association re assembled at 3 p. m., devotional exercises
being conducted by Eld. W. J. Elliott, who read the 146th
Psalm.
On motion of Bro. Thompson, seconded by Bro. Dickson, the
Clerk was instructed to devote an appropriate page of the
minutes to the memory of the esteemed and beloved Eld. Jeffer-
son Falker, whose life was a sweet benediction to many in this
Association and to hundreds in Alabama.
Discussion of Sunday School and Weak and New Churches re-
ports resumed, with remarks by Bro. McLendon, who offered the
following resolutions :
Resolved, 1. That Associational Missions be made a special object for
regular contributions by the churches, and that the churches be requested to
make a liberal contribution to this cause during the year.
2. That the Executive Committee be instructed to employ a suitable
minister who shall act as colporteur, laboring with the weak churches and
on the destitute fields in the interest of the churches and Sunday Schools.
which, after remarks by brethren Goldsmith, Crumpton, Elliott,
Gunn, Catts, Anderson and Thompson, were laid on the table.
Reports adopted.
Report on State Missions was read by the chairman. Eld. W.
J. Elliott, as follov^^s :
REPORT ON STATE MISSIONS.
Twenty years ago this Board was inauj<urated in Huntsville, and a year
later made its first annual report to the Baptist State Convention.
Rev. T. M. Bailey, its first corresponding secretary, whose head and heart
guided the afiairs of the Board for a decade, was wide awake to the interests
of the denomination, and seized every opportunity for aggressive work.
Ten years ago Rev. W. B. Crumpton was employed as corresponding secre-
9
tary of the Board, and under his wise management and faithful labors we
have f^e^n the work prosper and grow from year to year.
During the past twenty years over $141,885 have been collected and ex-
pended in State Mission work by the Board, and during that time the Board
raised for all purposes over $282,919, about 200 Baptist churches have been
organized, over 10,000 converts have been baptized, 2,000 Sunday Schools
have been organized, 162 Women's Missionary Societies have been estab-
lished, and more young ministers have been educated than in the years
prior to its existence.
The Board not only gathers her own sp*"cial interests under her wicgs,
but those of Home and Foreign Missions, as well as Bible and colpor^age
work, indigent ministers, the evangelization of the colored people and the
education oC young ministers, together with much other woric The Board
has extended her wings until she has had under them, at times, nearly
every cause nurtured by the Baptists of the State.
The work of the secretari' and his apsistants for the past year has been
progressive. Tne results achieved have been gratifying. Xotwithstanding
the financial depression of the past year, the contributions to the B.iard for
State Missions have been about §S, 000, equal to i he collections of the past
four or five years. Our secretary has written hundreds of letters and dis-
tributed a large number of circulars, seeking the aid and co-operation of
churches and individuals. He held special meetings and rallies, for the
purpose of arousing enthusiasm and imparting information. Almost every-
where he has been a new impetus has been given to the work.
Many churches and individuals, wbo have been holding themselves aloof
from co-operation, have fallen into line, and are moving, in harmonious
step, with the great host of regulars Bible and Colportage Work has
been prosecuted under great difficulties, the chief of which was the lack of
capital to operate with. In order to accomplish all that is needed to be
done, we will have to increase our contributions to this department of work.
These results constitute an argument which proves that this Board is
worthy of our most liberal support and the most hearty co-operation of the
denomination all over the State. We recommend that the Committee on
Apportionment be instructed to apportion to the chtirches $2,000 for Mis-
sions, $300 for Bible and Colportage Fund and $300 for Ministerial Educa-
tion.
We also recommend that our pastors in their ministrations urge more
frequently upon their cong.'-egations systematic contribittions to the cause
of Missions.
Respectfully submitted,
W. J. Elliott, Chairman.
who spoke to both State and Foreign Missions reports, followed
by Bro. Crumpton. Reports adopted.
On motion, church letters were referred to the Finance Com-
mittee for tabulation.
Adjourned, with benediction by Bro. Crumpton, to meet at
8:30 p. m.
NIGHT SESSION.
The association met at 8:30 and was led in prayer by Eld. W.
B. Crumpton, after which a map lecture was presented the large
and interested congregation. Collection, $6.00.
Adjourned, with benediction by Bro. Crumpton, to meet at
8:30 o'clock Thursday morning.
i
10
THURSDAY, JULY i8.
MORNING SESSION.
The Association met at theappointed time. Devotional exer-
cis-^s conducted by Eld. S. J. Caits, who read the 4th Psalm and
led in prayer. After a song, short prayers by brethren Anderson,
Dickson, Thompson and Averett.
Treasurer of the Association made his annual report, which was
referred to the Finance Committee for auditing.
Committee on Denominational Education, through Eld. E F.
Baber, made its report, Clerk reading same in the absence of the
chairman:
REPORT ON DENOMINATIONAL EDUCATION.
This subject, always important to Baptists, is each i'ear becoming more
serious There are two questions before us: First, is it desirable to edu-
cate our childrpn at schools under Biptist control in preference to other
schools? Second, if so, how can we <lo ii ?
The Eomnn Catholics rpco^nize the school-room as one of the subtlest
and ruost potent, and at the same time least expensive, agency for the prop-
agation of their doctrines. We pay least expensive, because the money is
paid for literary education, and the religious impression is made free of
cos' — it is that much ''thrown in" by the tea' her and other influences sur-
rounding the pupil. So well do the Catholics know by long experience the
efficiency of the literary school as an instrumentality m the propagation of
their doctrines and praciices, that whenever there is the smallest hope of
success they contest inch by inch, sometimes even to the shedding of blood,
the control of the scbooLs. Failing in this, they establish schools of their
own, in which no teachers aie allowed but those of their own faith. What-
ever else we may say of their conduct, we must admit that it is marked by
worldly wisdom.
The Methodists hf.ve learned by both observation and experience the value
of the literary schocil as an iiisuumentality for denominational advance-
ment; they therefore place a Methodist school teacher wherever they can.
Not only this, but they are planting district schools in every presidirjg el-
der's district in the State. They know what they are doing. We also
ought to see.
It is not meant that either the Romanists or Method'sts insist that school
teachers of their faith shall inculcate their religious tenets in the pupils di-
rectly. They are too wise for that. They put the teacher and pupil in con-
tact, and the pupil's attachment to and respect for the teacher often does
whatever else is desired. Besides this, there is denominational prestige in
the mere fact cf having the teacher at the head of the school.
So potent do these facts appear to us, that we feel warranted in saying
that when sufficient time has elapsed for causes to definitely show their
effects, it will be seen tha»- the denomination which controls the majority
of school houses also controls the majority of churches and church mem-
bers.
We do not feel that it is needful for us to add to the facts presented aa ex-
hortation to our Baptist bretbrfn. It ought to be sufficient when their at-
tention has been called to this matter.
It may be expected that we shall say something of denominational edu-
cation as against State education. We can say little that has not been often
said heretofore. We would not repeat some things that have been said.
Education by the State is an established fact. We must recognize that
fact, and do the best we can with it. State s-^hools of higlier grade come
into competition with our denominational schoo's of higher gradn. Many
Baptist young men attend them as do others also who would otherwise at-
11
tsnd our Bapti-st schools. What, cii.j wj .io? We may appeal to denomina-
tional pride. We may offer .superior inducements, if we can. We may
work and pray for our own school". We may s-how the moral and religious
b?nelit of attending a denominational school. We do not know what else
to suggest.
We are fully persuaded that Baptists ought to pa'^ron'ze their own schools
in preference to any other, if they furnish the education de=ired. And if
they do not, let us give them our help un'il thoy are able to meet all de-
mands.
We feel assured that for the needs of the great majority of our sons and
daughters, Howard College and Judson Instil u'e are not excelled by our
State schools or any others.
Eespectfully submitted.
E. F. B.\BEK, Chairman.
which jvas spoken to by Dr. S. W. Averett and Eld. W. B.
Crumpton and adopted.
Report on Ministerial Education, through Gio. W. Ellis, was
read by Eld. J. L. Thompson, in the absence of the chairman, as
follows:
REPORT OX MIXISTERIAL EDUCATION.
P/ior to 1894 there was no organized effort for the advancement of t'ne
cause of ministerial educafion, except with a few of the associations in the
S-.ate, who would adopt as their beneficiary some worthy young minister,
and aid him in his noble calling.
The State Convention, at Tuscaloosa, on July 21, 1884, created the Board
of Ministerial Education, whicb for two years was located at Birming''am.
The Convention that was held at Birminghaai in July, 1SS6 removed the
board to Montgomery, where the work was prosecuted until November,
1893, when the Convention, held at Greenville in thai month, abo'ished the
Board of Minisferial Education and committed that bran';h of the work to
the State Baard of Missions. As to the success of th^s wo'k, we have only
to look back over the statistical and financial repjr s for the past eleven
years, to be convinced that God has been in the move from the befjinning.
There has been raised from $2,000 to $3,000 annually, and from twenty to
fortj'^ worthy students for the ministry nave been helped each year, and as a
further evidence th-it the work is in the hearts of God's people, in this, one
of the hardest of financial years, the State Board of Missions has raised
through contributions from His people, in the last twelve months, for min-
isterial education alone, about $2,000, aiding quite a number of young min-
isters who otherwise would have had to remain away from college and the
Seminary for lact of means.
The demand foran educated ministry was never greater than now. Weare
taught in God's word that "thegospel is the power of God unto salvation to
every one that believeth;" that men are brought to a knowledge of their
true condition through the instrumentality of thegospel preached to them,
attended by the Holy Ghost; and we are further taught that "those who
preach the gospel shall live of the gospel." Therefore, be it
Resolved, 1. That this Association is in hearty sympathy with the cause
of ministerial education as fostered by our State Convention.
2. That we urge the churches to contribute liberally to the support of the
work; one-half to be paid by November 1st, and the remainder bj' February
1st n<^xt.
All of which is respectfully submitted,
Geo. W. Ellis, Chairman.
Discussed by brethren Thompson, Anderson and Crumpton,
and adopted.
Motion to limit speeches to five minutes prevailed.
12
In the absence of the chairman, Dr. Geo. B. Eager, Eld. W. J.
Elliott read the
REPORT ON WOMAN'S WORK.
The Alabama Central Committee of Women is the creature of our State
Convention by action taken at its session in Selma, November, 1889. The
object was the organizition of our women for hisrher and more efficient ser-
vice in the interest of missions. The Women's Missionary Union of Ala-
bama was the outgrowth of this action, and aims at nothing short of the
enlistment of every I'aptist woman in the State in the good work. Gath-
ered into missionary and aid societies, they would all be more actively
engaged searching the Scriptures concerning these things, aiding our great
missionary enterprises, dispensing information, awakening and fostering
the missionary spirit, and gathering the children into Sunbeam Societies
and training them, under God, for future usefulness.
During the six years of its existence the work of this organization and its
auxiliary societies throughout the State has shown remarkable growth and
progress, and the women of our Association have had some creditable share
in these achievements They have an intelligence, energy, zeal and organ-
izing power which might have been expected from women so equipped by
nature and education with hearts aglow with the love of Christ. Surely
were our Savior here to speak audibly he would again say, "She hath done
what she could." '
"Who goeth a warfare at his own charges?" asks Paul. But our good
women have done this noble work "without fee or reward." Amid the
busy cares of wifehood and motherhood they have snatched from sleep and
from pleasure's calls time and money to help tis do the Master's work. Can
we not hear Paul exhorting us, as he did others of old, "Help those
women?" Shall we not encourage them in their labor of love'' We need
not devise ways and means for them. Love's ways are ever many — -and
wondrous and wise. Who loveth like woman? Whose brain is so fertile as
hers? Whose hands are so deft and ready for the service of humanity? Let
us not be sceptical and half-hearted. Let us encourage her in her God-given
work until there is a Missionary Society in every church, and a Sunbeam
Band in every Sunday School of our denomination in the State. And let
us thank God for this help, so meet for us, so suitable to them, which He
has so graciously vouchsafed to us.
Respectfully submitted,
Geo. B. Eager, Chairman.
which, after remarks by Elds. W. J. Elliott, J. E. Barnes and W.
B. Crurapton, was adopted.
Eld. S. J. Catts read the
REPORT ON ORPHAN'S HOME.
The State Convenvion, which located the Orphans and Widows' Home at
Evergreen, Ala , filled a long felt want in the'ranks of the Baptist brother-
hood of Alabama.
That we should desire a refuge for the orphans and widows of our rank, is
but the fulfillment of a want that is dominant in each breast.
There was, therefore, no surprise on the part of many when at once this
enterprise gained great favor among everj^ rank of our denomination.
It is a remarkable fact that many who will not give one cent to missions
will cheerfully and willingly contribute to the Orphans' Home. I think
this a good way to make of our O-missionary Baptists Baptists who are mis-
sionary indeed, for when a person becomes interested in one department of
church work, soon he becomes so in other departments. So we may reason-
ably conclude that instead of being a drawback to missionary endeavor,
contributing to this work is an incentive to the mission cause. Your com-
mittee desires to call your attention to the most salient features of the work
in the Home germain to this report.
13
The training of the children confided to the Home is as near that of a
well-regulated Christian faraily as practicable The children are required
to go to school, observe faojily worship, and attend Sunday-school and
church regularly.
xV board of visitors has been appointed at the request of the Board of
Managers, composed of ladies of the Everareen church, whose duty it is to
visit the Orphanage once a week, to inspect its interi al arrangement, to pro-
cure needed supoly of clothing, etc.
The Orphanage is in need of additional rooms, and especially a commodious
dining-room and kitchen.
The charter recognizes two ways of disposing of the children under its
care, viz: apprenticeship and adoption.
Tbej' have suitable blanks for this purpose, so guarded as that proper care
is taken tliat no child shall be confided io improper persons.
The immediate government of the Home is in the hands of Rev. J. W.
Stewart and Mrs. C'ara Ansley, who are constant in their supervision of ihe
car^s, wants and culture of the children. There are at present thirty chil-
dren and widows in the home. The current expenses for the month aver-
ages about $200. There is a balance due on last year's payment of $273. GO
We recommend —
1. That each pastor and church of this Association take up collections
regularly for this cause, having a stated Sunday in each year for this pur-
pose.
2. That each church able to do so in the bounds of this Association sup-
port and maintain one child in the Home, paying for its clothes, books and
tuition.
3. That some time during this session a pecial collection be taken up for
the purpose of paying the current expenses of the Hoaie for this month.
Respectfully submitted,
S. J. Catts, Chairman.
and s])oke to the same, followed by brethren Anderson, Crump-
ton and others, closing with the following cash subscriptions and
pledge:
W. B. Crumpton (cash) $.5 00 S. J. Catts $5 GO
B. A. Jackson (cash) .3 00 S. W Av^rett (cash)... 5 00
J. G. Mills (cash) 1 00 H. M. Caffey (cash)... . 1 00
W. R. Meadows (cash) 50
which, with a hat collection, amounted to $20.40.
Eld. G. S. Anderson, in the absence of the chairman, read the
REPORT ON INDIGENT MINISTERS .
To the Montgomery Association:
Your committee, to report on Indigent Ministers within the bounds of
the Association, beg leave to make their report, and to say that within their
knowledge there are no indigent ministers within the bounds of our Asso-
ciation. The chairman, upon diligent inquiry, can hear of none.
Respectfully submitted,
Geo. W. Townsend, Chairman.
which was adopted.
Through its chairman, J. R. McLendon, the committee reported
as follows on
14
APPORTIONMENT.
We suumit the same apporiioument as last year, with the following
changes: Good Hope goes out of the Association (to the Fnify); the name
of Wesf Montgomery is changed to Clayton Street; South Montgomery comes
in as a new churcti, and is added to our list:
CHURCHES.
c
o
a
erial
duca
o
-^w
o
"
c
Ph
^
s
o
a
Adams Street ..
Bethany
Bethel (Fort Deposit)
Bethesda
Clayton Str. et
Coosada
Deatsville
First Montgomery
Friendship
Hayneville
Lowndesboro
Mt. Hebron
Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Zion
Philadelphia
Pine Level
Pra'tville
Ramer
Shoal Creek
South Montgomery...
Weturapka
$ 500 00
50 00
100 00
40 00
100 00
25 00
40 00
1000 00
20 00
25 00
60 00
25 00
20 00
75 00
10 00
60 00
100 00
40 00
10 00
10 00
200 00
50 00
6 00
10 00
5 00
25 00
2 50
2 50
100 00
2 50
2
5
10 00
10 00
2 50
2 50
5 00
50 00
$ 600 00
5 00
60 00
10 00
120 00
5 00
50 00
25 00
150 00
2 50
30 00
2 50
50 00
100 00
1200 00
2 50
25 00
2 50
30 00
5 00
70 00
2 50
30 00
2 50
25 00
5 00
85 00
2 50
15 00
5 00
70 00
10 00
120 00
10 00
60 00
2 50
15 00
2 50
15 00
5 00
210 00
$3030 00
J. R McLendon,
G. W. Johnson,
R. MEA.D0WS,
Committee.
Adopted,
Committee on Finance, through its chairman, Graves Little,
made its report; (see Financial Exhibit;) also, that report of Treas-
urer had been audited and found correct:
REPORT OF TREASURER.
Montgomery Baptist Association,
In account with J. H. Dickson, Treasurer:
Dr.
July, 1894. To Cash collections for Orphanage $ 6 81
Cash collections for Mi-sions 13 25
Cash from Finance Com. — Home Missions 5 00
Cash from Finance Com. — State Missions 22 01
Cash from Finance Com — Ministerial Ed 27 85
Cash from Finance Committee — Minutes 26 75
Cash from Finance Committee for Orphanage 6 40— $108 07
15
Ck.
July, 1894. By W. B. Crumpton $74 51
J. W. Stewart fi 81
.I.e. Pope 26 75-$108 07
Respectfully submitted,
Jesse H. Dickson, Treasurer.
Eld. Sidney Catts reported as follows for the committee on
NOMINATIONS.
We, your committee, beg leave to submit the following report:
It is a noticeable fact that the nominations made this early in the year
are often seriously affected by the removal of tho«e appointed beyond the
bounds of our Association, thu^ crippling our work by 1 ck of appointees.
Therefore, we recommend that the brethren to preach the Introductory and
Mi'siorary sermons be appointed by the Executive Conjmittee
We recommend that we meet at Wetumpka, Ala , on the day of
, 1896.
Respectfully submitted,
Sidney Catts,
W. E. Lacy,
J. G. Mills,
Committee.
and, on motion of Eld. J. L. Thompson, the Association voted to
meet next year on Tuesday after the third Sunday in August,
which will be the i8th.
The Moderator announced the following
Executive Committee — J. H. Dickson, W. B. Davidson, Geo. W. Ellis, J.
C. Pope, J. B. Gerald.
On motion of Eld. W. J. Elliott,
Letter of Dismission Granted — Good Hope church to join Unity Associ-
ation.
On motion, money for associational purposes, amounting to
$11.83, ^3S voted to the Executive Committee for disposition.
On motion of Bro. Elliott, the Association invites all Baptist
Young People Union and Sunday School workers in our bounds
to hold a special service on Monday night preceding, and one
hour on Tuesday morning of Association.
Eld. B. A. Jackson presented the following resolution:
Resolved, That we organize a Baptist Sunday School Convention in the
bounds of the Montgomery Association, and that we hold at least one
meeting during the associational year.
which was referred to the Executive Committee with power to
act.
Bro. Dickson offered the following:
Resolved, That the thanks of this Association are hereby tendered to this
church and community for the kind and Christian courtesy and hospitality
that have been extended to us during the past few days. In return for
which we pray the Lord to bless them temporally and spiritually.
J. H. Dickson.
which was adopted by a rising vote.
^
i
4
16
Moderator was voted time in which to prepare list of commit-
tees for publication in the minutes.
On motion of Bro. Elliott the Clerk was voted ;^io.oo for his
services, the remainder of the minute fund to be used in printing
and distributing 500 copies of the minutes. Adopted.
Elder Sidney Catts reported for the Committee on Nomina-
tions—
Delegate to Soutliprn Baptist Convention — W. J. Elliott. Alternates, G.
S. Anderson, B. A. Jackson.
Delegates to State Convention — Jesse H. Dickson, J. C. Pope, J. L. Thomp-
fon. G. S. Ander<!oo. C. A. Gunn, "W. E. Lacy, John Varaer, W. J. Elliott,
Amns Jones, P. N Cilley.
which was adopted.
Prayer for the Hayneville church, led by Eld. B. A Jackson.
Eld. G. S. Anderson thanked the Association for the love and
sympathy exhibited on this occasion for the Hayneville church.
Sang "Blest be the tie that binds," the parting hand was given,
and the Association adjourned with prayer by Bro. Elliott, to
meet with Wetumpka church, Tuesday, August 18, 1896.
T. L. JONES, Moderator,
J. C. POPE, Clerk, Montgomery, Ala.
Montgomery, Ala.
■>
IN MEMORY
OF
Eld, JEFFERSON FALKNEF{,
BORN
In Jasper County, Ga., April 22, 1810.
DIED
In Montgomery, Ala., April 22, 1895
"Mark the perfect man, and behold the upiight: for the end
of that man is peace."
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Montgomery Baptist Association,
Article I. This union of churches shall be known and distinguished by
the style and title of the Momgoniery Baptist Association.
II. This Assncia'ion shaU be composed of representatives from the
churches in union
Each church shall be entitled to three delegates, and for every additional
twenty-five metubers above the Hrst hundred, shall be entitled to an addi-
tional delegate; but in the business of the Association, whenever the dele-
gates from any church of the body shall rec^uest it, the vote shall be
taken by churches, and in that event each church shall be entitled to three
votes.
III The delegates when convened shall organize themselves into a delib-
erative body, by the appointment of a Moderator and Clerk; these oiiicers
shall be chosen by ballot, at each annual meeting, and continue in office
until new ones are chosen.
Should any event tran pire so as to prevent an annual meeting of this
Association, the Moderator shall have power to call a meeting at any time
or place; which m'^eting, when convened, shall have all the rights of a reg-
ular annual meeting.
IV This Association shall not interfere with the rights of the churches
of which she is composed. She shall regard them as independent bodies in
all measures of internal government, and shall only act as an advisory
council ; assuming no authority but what is expressly delfgated to her by the
churches, or evidently implied by the very nature of the compact She'
nevertheless claims authority over her own members, the delegites of the
churches, and in justice and propriety must have power to withdraw from
and disown all churches that depart from the principles of this compact, by
becoming heterodox in faith or disorderly in practice. She should there-
fore regard all the churches, united under the constitution, with a vigilant
eye for good. Her principal business shall be to promote the declarative
glory of God, by extending his kingdom of grace on earth, through the
medium of preaching the gospel, and other means, in accordance with that
gospel, to cultivate union and fellowship with all the churches of Christ,
and especially with those united in this Association.
V. Newly constituted churches, or churches dismissed from other Asso-
ciations, of the same faith and order, may be admitted into this union on
their sending uj) delegates to an annual meeting, with a petition, and by
those delegates agreeing to the abstract of principles adopted by this Asso-
ciation
YI. The churches in this union shall transmit to every annual se.ssion of
the Association written communications specifying the names of the dele-
gates, number in fellowship, baptized, received by letter, dismissed, exclu-
ded, restored, deceased since last session, and all other information which
the churches may deem of importance, which shall be read and minuted
accordingly.
VII. This Association shall have a fund, supplied by the voluntary con-
tributions of the churches, and all monies thus contribated shall be trans-
milted from the churches and paid over, through the Committee on Fi-
nance, to the Treasurer, who shall be elected by ballot, and hold his office
during the pleasure of the Association. He shall receive and manage the
funds according to the order of the Association, and present annually, for
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21
insertion in the minutes, a clear and full statement of all receipts and ex-
penditures.
VIII. This Association shall furnish the churches with the Minutes of
every session.
IX This A.8sociation shall take cognizance of no query sent up from the
ch arches unless they have endeavored to solve the same and have failed;
nor of any difficulties between churches, unless they have pursued the di-
rections contained in the xviii chapter of Matthew, and have not been able
to settle them; then the Association shall take such matters into considera-
tion, and act upon them at her discretion.
X It shall be the duty of the Clerk of this Association to keep a regular
file of printed Minutes of every session of this body, and deliver over the
same to his successor in office.
XI. This Association, when convened, shall be governed by proper rules
of decorum, which she is authorized to form and amend according to her
own views.
XII. This constitution may be altered or amended at a regular meeting
of the Association, by a concurring voice of two-thirds of the members
present; provided, such alteration or amendment be approved by a major-
ity of the churches.
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