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CONDITION AND CHARACTERISTICS
OF CHRISTIANITY IN THE UNITED STATES
IN FOUR PARTS
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PART I.— RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890.
The purpose of this volume is to describe and classify
all denominations, with statistical exhibits, so as to give a
dear idea of the character and strength of the religious
forces of the United States, as represented by ecclesiastical
organizations.
I. The Sources of Inpormation akd the Plan.— The
body of this volume is occupied by the results of the United
States Census of Religious Denominations taken in 1890.
Some results of the government census of 1906 are also
furnished, and statistical siunmaries for 1900 and 1910,
gathered by the author from denominational sources,
official and unofficial, published and tmpublished, and so
arranged as to show the gains and the losses for each dec-
ade and changes in the list of denominations by union or
division, by dissolution or creation.
The government report for 1890 is very voluminous. It
makes the county the dvil unit and the classis, conference,
diocese, presbjrtery, synod, etc., the ecdesiastical unit.
That is, the statistics of each denomination are given by
counties and States and by dioceses, presbyteries, confer-
ences, etc., and denominations. In this volume it is deemed
suffident to give summaries by States and Territories and
by conferences, dioceses, etc., advising those who want
more minute details to consult the census volumes. The
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X CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES,
descriptive accounts are, in the main, those prepared for
the census of 1890. Their object is to show the general
characteristics of denominational families, or groups; to
give the date, place, and circumstances of the origin of each
denomination, together with its peculiarities in doctrine,
polity, and usage; to state the cause of every division, and
to indicate the diflferences which separate branches bearing
the same family name.
The order of the alphabet is followed in presenting the
denominations. The first chapter is given to the Advent-
ists, the second to the Baptists, and so on through the list.
A different rule is observed, however, in the arrangement
of the branches of denominational families or groups. The
stem, or oldest body, is given the first place, and the others
appear in chronological order, according to the date of their
origin, except in cases where there has been one or more
divisions in a branch. To illustrate, let us take the Ad-
ventist family. The Evangelical branch is generally con-
ceded to be the oldest. The Advent Christians are second
in the order of time, and the Seventh-Day body third.
The Life and Advent Union woidd be fourth, were it not
that the Church of God, which is more recent, is a division
of or secession from the Seventh-Day branch. The Church
of God therefore occupies the fourth place, next to its
parent body. The same rule applies to the arrangement
of Methodist and other branches. The historical order
has been observed because it is the more logical and con-
venient. The alphabetical order would inevitably lead to
confusion and frequent and unnecessary repetition in the
descriptive accounts; and arrangement according to numer-
ical strength would be open to the same objection. The
method chosen allows the reader to follow the historical
development of every denominational group and study the
causes of each successive division in the order in which it
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890. xi
occurred. The historical rule is not strictly followed in all
cases. For example, the Unitarian Churches, though histor-
ically an outgrowth of the Congregational denomination,
are separately presented, because they have long been a
distinct body, diflfering widely in doctrine from the parent
body and resembling it chiefly in ecclesiastical form.
2. The Scope and Method of the Census of 1900. —
The census of 1890 was the first successful effort of the
government in this direction. In 1850, i860, and 1870
religious statistics were gathered by United States marshals
or their agents. In the censuses of 1850 and i860 three
items only were given, viz., churches, church accommoda-
tions, and value of church property. In 1870 a distinction
was made between churches or church societies and church
edifices, thus making an additional item. In 1880 large
preparations were made for a census which should not only
be thorough, but exhaustive in the nimiber of its inquiries.
A vast mass of detailed information was obtained; but the
appropriations were exhausted before it was tabulated, and
the results were wholly lost. Having been appointed in
1889 by the Hon. Robert P. Porter, superintendent of the
eleventh census, to the charge of this division of the census
office, the author of this volume determined to make the
scope of the inquiry broad enough to embrace the necessary
items of information, and narrow enough to insure success
in collecting, tabulating, and publishing them, and to de-
vise a method of collecting the statistics which would serve
the ends of accuracy, completeness, and promptness. It
was in some sense to be a pioneer effort, and the plan and
methods adopted were designed to bring success within the
range of possibility. The scope of the inquiry of 1880 was
therefore greatly reduced. Many questions which, if fully
answered, would yield desirable information were omitted
from the census of 1890, which covers these points: (i)
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xii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
organizations or congregations; (2) church edifices; (3)
seating capacity; (4) other places of worship, with (5) their
seating capacity; (6) value of church property; (7) com-
municants or members. The number of ministers is also
given in the totals for denominations.
Great diversity, as every ecclesiastical student knows,
exists in the statistical schemes of the various denomina-
tions. Some embrace many, others few, items; some give
congregations or societies, but not edifices; others edifices
but not societies; some report value of church property,
while others do not; most give members or communi-
cants, while one, the chiefest of all,^ gives only population.
There are also as many varieties of the statistical year as
there are months. Moreover, quite a number of denomina-
tions have never made any retxuns whatever. These con-
siderations suggest the great difficulty of securing anything
like uniformity in the returns; but uniformity was kept
steadily in view, and it was attained. All denominations
thus appear in the census of 1890 on the same statistical
basis. For the first time the Roman Catholic Church was
represented by communicants, and not by popidation.
The method of gathering the statistics was to make the
presbytery, the classis, the association, the synod, the dio-
cese, the conference, etc., the unit in the division of the
work, and to ask the clerk or moderator or statistical sec-
retary of each to obtain the desired information from the
churches belonging to his presbytery, association, or dio-
cese, as the case might be. This officer received full in-
structions how to proceed, and sufficient supplies of cir-
culars, schedides, etc., to communicate with each church.
This method proved to be quite practicable, and very sat-
isfactory. Several thousand agents thus gave information
which they were best qualified to secure, and the results
1 Roman Catholic.
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890. ziii
were found, when tests were applied, to be full and accu-
rate. I may mention that, having a large force of clerks
with ample supplies, a vast correspondence was conducted.
For example, desiring to obtain a complete list of Lutheran
congregations unattached to synods, a letter of inquiry was
addressed to every Lutheran minister asking him to report
any such congregations in his neighborhood. In this way,
much information, otherwise unattainable, was received.
It should be understood that the census emmierators,
who take the popidation by domiciliary visitation, are not
allowed to ask individuals as to their religious connections.
In the first place, they have but a brief time in which to
complete their work; in the second place, their schedides
are already overburdened with inquiries; and in the third
place, the constitutional provision. of the First Amendment,
restraining Congress from making any ''Law respecting an
establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise
thereof," is interpreted as forbidding it Many persons
would, under this constitutional guarantee, refuse to an-
swer questions as to their religious faith, and it is doubtful
whether the courts would not uphold them in their refusal.
The census authorities believed that it would add greatly
to the diiSiculties of a successful enumeration if some ques-
tions were mandatory and some not. This is the reason
we cannot have in this country what the census reports of
Canada, Australia, and certain other coxmtries include —
statistics of religious populations.
3. Variety in Religion. — ^The first mipression one gets
in studying the results of the census is that there is an in-
finite variety of religions in the United States. There are
Churches small and Churches great. Churches white and
Churches black, Churches high and low, orthodox and heter-
odox. Christian and pagan, Catholic and Protestant, Liberal
and Conservative, Calvinistic and Arminian, native and
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xiv CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
foreign, Trinitarian and Unitarian. All phases of thought
are represented by them, all possible theologies, all varieties
of polity, ritual, usage, forms of worship. In our economical
policy as a nation we have emphasized the importance of
variety in industry. We like the idea of manufacturing or
producing just as many articles of merchandise as possible.
We have invented more curious and useful things tian any
other nation. In matters of religion we have not been less
liberal and enterprising. We seem to have about every
variety known to other countries, with not a few peculiar to
ourselves. Our native genius for invention has exerted it-
self in this direction also, and worked out some curious re-
sults. The American patent covers no less than two orig-
inal Bibles — the Mormon and Oahspe — and more brands
. , of religion, so to speak, than are to be found, I believe, in any
other country. This we speak of as " the land of the free. "
No man has a property in any other man, or a right to dic-
tate his religious principles or denominational attachment.
No Church has a claim on the State, and the State has no
claim on any Church. We scarcely appreciate our advan-
tages. Our citizens are free to choose a residence in any
one of fifty States and Territories, and to move from one
to another as often as they have a mind to. There is even
a wider range for choice and change in religion. One may
be a pagan, a Jew, or a Christian, or each in turn. If he
is a pagan, he may worship in one of the nimierous temples
devoted to Buddha; if a Jew, he may be of the Orthodox
or Reformed variety; if a Christian, he may select any one
of 125 or 130 different kinds, or join every one of them in
turn. He may be six kinds of an Adventist, seven kinds
of a Catholic, twelve kinds of a Mennonite or Presbyterian,
thirteen kinds of a Baptist, sixteen kinds of a Lutheran, or
seventeen kinds of a Methodist. He may be a member of
any one of 143 denominations, or of all in succession. If
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890. xv
none of these suit him, he still has a choice among 150
separate and independent congregations, which have no
denominational name, creed, or connection. Any resident
of the United States is perfectly free to make himself at
home with any of these religious companies, and to stay
with each as long or as short a time as he will. We some-
times speak as though there were not sufficient freedom of
thought. Here are many phases of thought, and any man
may pass, if he will, without hindrance through them all.
A closer scrutiny of the list, however, shows that many
of these 143 denominations differ only in name. Without
a single change in doctrine or polity, the eighteen Meth-
odist bodies coidd be reduced to three or four; the twelve
Presbyterian to three; the twelve Mennonite to two; and
so on. The differences in many cases are only sectional or
historical. The slavery question was the cause of not a
few divisions, and matters of discipline were responsible for
a large nimiber. Arranging the denominations in groups
or families, and coimting as one family each the twelve
Mennonite, the seventeen Methodist, the thirteen Baptist
bodies, and so on, we have, instead of 143, only 42 titles.
In other words, if there coidd be a consolidation of each
denominational group, the reproach of our division would
be largely taken away.
4. Classification of the Churches. — In order to get
a comprehensive idea of the numerous religious bodies it
is necessary to classify them. This is a much simpler
matter than might, at first sight, be supposed. They fall
naturally into three grand divisions, Christian, Jewish, and
miscellaneous. The Christian division we divide into
classes, as Catholic and Protestant, and Evangelical and
non-Evangelical. Quite independently of this classification
we have denominational groups, or families.
Under the head miscellaneous I would include Chinese
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xvi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
and Japanese, Buddhists, the Theosophlsts, and the
Ethical Cnlturists. This is a very small and insignificant
division. The Jewish division embraces simply the Ortho-
dox and Reformed Jews. The Christian division contains,
of course, the great majority of denominations and believers
— Catholics, Protestants, Latter-Day Saints — all bodies not
Jewish or pagan.
I consider as a denominational family all Methodist
bodies. They are branches with a common stem, a com-
mon name, a common type of doctrine, and certain com-
mon features and tisages. I consider as a denominational
family all Presbyterian bodies. They all go back to the
same source historically, they have the same name, the
same confession of faith, with two or three exceptions, and
the same system of government. I also class the various
Lutheran bodies as a denominational family, the niunerous
Baptist bodies, and so on. A denominational family, there-
fore, is a nimiber of branches closely afl51iated in history
and in common characteristics. Nowhere have denomina-
tional families developed as in the United States. In no
quarter of the globe have the Lutherans or the Methodists,
the Presbyterians or the Baptists, the Friends or the Men-
nonites, separated into so many branches as here in this
land of perfect dvil and religious liberty.
It was an American Presbyterian, in the great gathering
of Presbyterians of all lands, in Belfast, Ireland, some
years ago, who exclaimed, alluding to a reference to the
"U. P's." of Scotland, and other branches, "We are little
better than a lot of split P's. " His observation might be
given a much wider range. It is far more applicable to
Protestants than to Presbyterians — they are "a lot of split
P's." If there were in Milton's day "subdichotomies of
petty schisms," what phrase woidd that great master of
vivid expression coin to fit the numberless divisions and
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OP 1890. xvii
subdivisions into which Protestantism has fallen since? We
no longer classify these divisions as units, but as families
of units. The Ihresbyterians are not simply one of these di-
visions, but a whole family. The Methodists, who were a
sort of ecdesMa in ecdesia in Wesley's day in England,
are now an ecdesia ecclesiofum the world over. According
to the scientists, no atom is so small that it may not be
conceived of as consisting of halves. It may be divided
into halves, and these halves may in turn be divided, and
so on oJ infiniPum. No denomination has thus far proved
to be too small for division. Denominations appear in the
list given in this volume with as few as twenty-five mem-
bers. I was reluctantly compelled to exclude from the
census one with twenty-one members. The reason was,
that while they insisted that they were a separate body
and did not worship with other Churches, they had no or-
ganized church of their own. Twelve of them were in
Pennsylvania, divided between Philadelphia and Pittsburg,
six in Illinois, and three in Missouri. They were so widely
scattered they could not maintain public worship.
It is not easy to define dearly and to apply discriminat-
ingly the term "Evangelical." It comes, of course, from
the Greek word "evangel," for which our Anglo-Saxon
"gospel," or good news, is the dose equivalent. In a
general way, we mean, I suppose, when we say certain de-
nominations are Evangelical, that they hold earnestly to
the doctrines of the gospd of Christ as found in the New
Testament Evangelical and non-Evangelical are terms
used generally to designate classes of Churches in the Protes-
tant division. The Evangelical Churches are those which
hold to the inspiration, authority, and suffidency of the
Scripttires; the Trinity, the ddty of Christ, justification
by faith alone, and the work of the Holy Ghost in the con-
version and sanctification of the sinner. The non-Evan-
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xtTii characteristics IN THE UNITED STATES.
gelical Churches are those which take a rationalistic view
of the ddty of Christ and the doctrines of grace, of which
the Unitarians may be taken as an example. There are
some denominations which have the word "Evangelical"
in their title, and yet are thoroughly rationalistic and
therefore non-Evangelical. Practically, we may distin-
guish as Evangelical all those bodies which are members
of the general organization known as the Evangelical Alli-
ance, or in harmony with its articles of faith; and as non-
Evangelical all other Protestant bodies.
5. Denominational Titles. — ^The numerous divisions
make modem ecclesiastical history an interesting study.
It is interesting because it necessaxily deals with so many
distinct phases of religious thought, so many diverse de-
nominational movements, and so many divergencies, great
and small, in usage, discipline, and polity. But it is a
peculiarly difficult study, because of the multiplicity of
denominational divisions and the labyrinth of details which
must be mastered. No worse puzzle was ever invented
than that which the names of the various denominations
present.
We have, for example, the "Presbyterian Church in
the United States" and the "Presbyterian Church in the
United States of America"; the "Reformed Church in the
United States" and the "Reformed Church in America."
Which is which? There are doubtless many members of
these bodies who could not tell. The only apparent dis-
tinction in each of these cases is geographical. But what
is the difference between the "United States" and the
"United States of America"? How is anybody to dis-
tinguish between the "Presbyterian Church in the United
States" and the "Presbyterian Church in the United States
of America"?
There are, no doubt, theological distinctions between the
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890, xix
"Reformed Church in -the United States" and the "Re-
formed Church in America. " But what precisely are these
distinctions? They cannot be of fundamental importance,
because both Churches accept the same symbol, the Heidel-
berg Catechism. We might reasonably expect the theolo-
gians of the two Churches to know; but what about the
body of ministers? Many may have known once, but might
find it difficult to recall the exact shades of difference. As
to the laymen, few of them have probably ever heard the
difference described. The way we learn to distinguish be-
tween the two Chiurches is by identifying the Reformed
Church in America as the "Dutch" body, and the Reformed
Church in the United States as the "German" body; and
so when we want to use these titles intelligently we bracket
the words "Dutch" and "German" in connection with
them.
Among the Presbyterians there are foiu: bodies of the
Reformed variety. I have always had great difficulty in
distinguishing between them. One is called the Reformed
Presbyterian Church in the United States of America; an-
other, the Reformed Presbyterian Church in North Amer-
ica. One has a synod and the other a general synod. But
it is not always easy to remember which has the synod
and which the general synod. I used to j&nd in their
monthly organs a more sure method of distinction. One
of these organs had a blue cover and the other a pink
cover. The blue-cover organ represented the general
synod, and the general s)mod represents the Reformed
Presbyterian Church in North America; the pink-cover
organ represented the synod, and the synod represents the
Reformed Presbyterian Church in the United States of
America.
About a century ago a number of ministers and churches
seceded from * the Kirk in Scotland and organized tl^e
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n CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
Secession Church. Soon after, half of this Secession
Church seceded from the other half, and in process of time
the halves were quartered. Then, as a matter of course,
there was a dispute among them as to who were the first
seceders. Those who thought their claim best prefixed
the word "Original" to their title and became Original
Seceders. Then there was a imion of Seceders and Origi-
nal Seceders, and the result was the United Original Se-
cession Church, or, more properly, the Church of the United
Original Seceders. This is probably the only instance in
which the ideas of division and imion are both incorpor-
ated in one title. This title being neither ecclesiastical
nor doctrinal, and not even geographical, we may properly
term it mathematical, and think of the Church as the
Original and Only Addition-Division Church in the Pres-
byterian family.
There are twelve bodies of Presbyterians to be distin-
guished, and eighteen bodies of Methodists; and Metho-
dist titles are scarcely more helpful than Presbyterian.
We have the Methodist Episcopal, which we recognize as
the parent body, and which we sometimes distinguish as
the Northern Church, though it covers the South as well
as the North. We have the Methodist Episcopal, South,
which resulted from the division in 1844 and which has
churches in some of the Northern States. We have the
African Methodist Episcopal, the African Methodist Epis-
copal Zion, the Colored Methodist Episcopal, the Union
American Methodist Episcopal, the African Union Meth-
odist Protestant, the Zion Union Apostolic, and the
Evangelist Missionary — all colored bodies. We have also
three bodies of Congregational Methodists, none of which
are Congregational in fact, with Free, Independent, Protes-
tant, Primitive, and other varieties of Methodists, the why
of which must forever remain an inscrutable mystery to the
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OP 1890. xri
mass of mankind. The word 'Trotestant" in the title of
the Methodist Protestant Church does not, at least histori-
cally, mean Evangelical or anti-Catholic, but really anti-
Episcopal. The Methodist reformers of 1830 protested
against the episcopacy of the parent body as a barrier to
the reforms they advocated. " Methodist Protestant " does
not, therefore, indicate that there is a Methodist Catholic
Church from which this is distinguished, but that there is
a Methodist Episcopal Church from which this is distin-
guished as a Methodist anti-Episcopal Church. In the
title Free Methodist Church the word "Free" does not
mean free from State control or patronage, as it means in
Presbyterian parlance in Scotland, but free from the pew
system, free from worldliness, free from instrumental and
dioir music, and free from unsoimd preaching. This we
ascertain from the history of the body, not from its title.
The Primitive Methodist Church does not, of course, claim
to belong to the age of Primitive Christianity, nor to be
the original Methodist Church. It dates from 1810, and
sprang from a revival of the early Methodist practice of
field-preaching.
Of Baptist bodies we count thirteen, including the Regu-
lar, North, South, and Colored; the Freewill in two
varieties; the General, Separate, United, Six-Principle,
Seventh-Day, Primitive, white and colored, Old Two-
Seed-in-the-Spirit Predestinarian; also the Baptist Church
of Christ, which claims to have descended direct from
the apostles. Beginning with the three principal bodies,
called "Regular," we might, following the old classifi-
cation of verbs, describe the Baptists as "Regular,
Irregular, Redimdant, and Defective. " The most curious
of all Baptist bodies is the Old Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit
Predestinarian. Here we have a title that is definitive.
It describes and distinguishes. These Baptists are Pre-
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an CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
destinarian. They believe that every action, whether
good or bad, of every person and every event was pre-
destinated from the beginning; not only the initial sin of
Eve and the amiable compliance of Adam and the con-
sequent fall of man, but the apostasy of Satan. They are
thoroughly Predestinarian; and not only Predestinarian,
but they are Old Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit Predestinarians.
The two seeds are good and evil; and one or the other
of them will spring up into eternal life or eternal death,
according to the nature of the predestination decreed in
each particular case.
There are four bodies of Brethren who object to any
other designation. They are popularly known as (Plym-
outh) Brethren. By putting the word Plymouth in paren-
thesis we can distinguish them from other bodies of Breth-
ren; but how shall we distinguish each of these four bodies
of (Plymouth) Brethren from the other three? The device
I was led to adopt for the census was that of Roman nu-
merals, thus:
(Plymouth) Brethren I.,
(Plymouth) Brethren II.,
(Plymouth) Brethren III.,
(Plymouth) Brethren IV.,
the word "Plymouth" being in parenthesis in each case.
Much confusion often arises from the similarity of titles.
There are, it will be noticed, several bodies called the
Church of God, with only a slight variation in two in-
stances. There are the Church of God and Churches of
God in Christ Jesus, both Adventist; the Churches of God,
otherwise distinguished as the denomination founded by
Elder Winebrenner, and the Church of God in Christ. The
large body, which app)ears in the list given in this volume
as Disciples of Christ, since become two bodies, also often
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OP 1890. xxiii
calls itself simply "The Christians." There is another.
denominaUony with similar tenets and two branches, which
uses the same designation, and is otherwise known as the
Christian Connection. The authorities of the census in
1870 declared that in the results it was impossible to draw
a line of separation between these denominations. A few
years ago the Disdples were popularly distinguished as the
body to which President Garfield belonged, and they are
probably better known as Campbellites, a term which is
offensive to them, than by either of their accepted tities.
Since we have divisions, and so many of them, we need
good definitive tities. But •how shall we get them? Lord
Beaconsfield waged a war to acquire a "scientific frontier"
in India. Almost any means would be justifiable that
would secure for us a scientific nomenclature. But there
is this great difliculty: a definitive titie cannot be given
where there is no distinction to define. Baptist, Presby-
terian, Congregational, Episcopal, are definitive tities; but
between many of the Baptist and Presbyterian branches
there is no difference which a titie could be framed to
designate. The only remedy I can suggest in such cases
is reunion; and why such reimion has not taken place in
scores of instances I cannot explain, except by the preva-
lence of the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. It
must be that the saints of the sects think they ought to
persevere in sectarian division.
6. The Causes of Division. — ^What is it that has caused
so many divisions in our Christianity? The question is one
of profound interest, whether considered as a matter of his-
tory, as indicating the course of controversy, or as affecting
the influence, spirit, and power of organized religion. The
differences in some cases between branches bearing the same
generic name are important; in others they are not. How
shall we explain the fact that there are six kinds of Advent-
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xav CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES,
ists, fifteen kinds of Baptists, seventeen kinds of Method-
ists, etc? The natural presumption is that the six branches
of Ad ventists are six kinds of Ad ventists, the fifteen branches
of Baptists fifteen kinds of Baptists, and so on. As a mat-
ter of fact, this is not so. Different titles and separate
existence, while logically implying distinct varieties, are in
some cases simply the result of differences which have long
ceased to exist. It would be a mistake, therefore, to say
that every one of the 143 distinct titles of denominations
represents a difference, either in doctrine or polity or form
of worship.
One of the most numerous of the denominational fami-
lies is the Methodist. Methodism has had a marvelous
growth in the United States, and yet we find it broken
into eighteen divisions. There are no doctrinal differences
to accoimt for them. They are all Arminian in theology,
agreeing in their opposition to the Calvinistic decrees; em-
phasizing the points of doctrine which Wesley made dis-
tinctive; and manifesting substantial oneness in the minor
matters of usage. They are one in spirit, and each has the
family resemblance in many characteristics. They differ,
first, in church government. Some are episcopal; others
presbyterian, with presidents of conferences instead of bish-
ops; and one is independent. The oldest of the existing
divisions, the Methodist Protestant, became separated from
the parent body about 1830 in a controversy over the ad-
mission of laymen into the governing body of the Church.
Those who eq>oused this reform believed that bishops and
presiding elders were autocratic, and when they fonned a
system of their own they brought the laymen to the front
and sent bishops and presiding elders to the rear. This
was a division on principles of government. Eight of the
branches became such because of color or race difference.
Nearly all of these separated from a white body. Two
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OP 1890, xxv
Other divisions, the American Wesleyan and the Methodist
Episcopal, South, were due to the slavery question, which
has been one of the most prolific causes, in the history of the
last century, of ecclesiastical controversy and secessions.
Another body, the Free Methodists, was the result of too
little forbearance and too harsh exercise of discipline, on the
one side, and to extravagances of preaching and behavior
on the other. In other words, there was a misunderstand-
ing, a quarrel, and a separation. The two Congregational
Methodist branches (formerly three) are not reaUy congre-
gational in form of government. They were caiised by
disciplinary troubles. The Primitive branch comes to us,
not by division, but from England through Canada.
To summarize, ten of the seventeen divisions were due
to the race or the slavery question, and six to controversies
over practical questions. Of course differences were in-
creased, in some instances, by the natural process of devel-
opment. The itinerancy, for example, has been modified
in the Methodist Episcopal and in the Methodist Protes-
' tant Church, and the probationary system abolished in the
Church, South. Leaving out the Independent and the four
Congregational branches, which are very small, I doubt
whether there is any difference between the various epis-
copal bodies that would be harder to overcome in any effort
to unite them than that of race and section. There are
five non-episcopal bodies which are not widely separated
in practice or spirit.
Of the twelve Presb3rterian bodies all are consistently
Calvinistic but two, the Cumberland and the Cumberland
Colored, which hold to a modified Calvinism. All use the
Presbyterian system of government, with little variation.
What, then, is it that divides them? Slavery divided the
Northern and Southern, the race question the two Cumber-
land bodies; one branch is Welsh, and the rest are kept
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xxvi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
apart by minute variations. They have close points of
agreement, but they differ on questions that seem to others
utterly insignificant.
We may sum up the causes of division under four heads:
(i) controversies over doctrine; (2) controversies over
administration or discipline; (3) controversies over moral
questions; (4) controversies of a personal character.
We are a nation made up of diverse race-elements. All
varieties of speech, habits of thought, mental, moral, and
religious training are represented among us by the older
and the newer, the European and the Asiatic immigration.
Here there is the utmost freedom for all forms of religion,
with no exclusive favors to any. We must e3q>ect, from
such a commingling, currents, coimter-currents, and eddies
of religious thought. Different systems of doctrine, differ-
ent forms of worship, and different principles of discipline
are brought into contact, and each has its influence upon
the others. Calvinism affects Arminianism, and Arminian-
ism Calvinism. The Teutonic element modifies the English
and is modified by it in turn. Catholicism has been most
profoundly affected by Protestantism, and some elements
of Protestantism by Catholicism. Thus there are various
forces acting upon religion in the United States, and pro-
ducing phenomena in our religious life which the future
historian will study with great interest.
Without attempting to consider with any degree of
thoroughness the tendencies manifested in the history of
religion in the United States, I must refer to that toward
liberal views. Most denominations have become much
more liberal in spirit than they used to be. It was the
growth of this liberal spirit which caused many of the divi-
sions of the past eighty or ninety years. Let me give a
single illustration of the tendency. A band of Dtmkards
came across the sea from Germany to Pennsylvania in 17 19.
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890, xxvii
.They were a very simple people, interpreting the Bible
literally, fashioning their outward as well as their spiritual
lives by it, and believing they were called by God to be a
peculiar and exclusive people. More unworldly men and
women never inhabited cloister. They were in the world
but not a part of the world. They thought it a virtue to
resist its customs and ignore its fashions. In the character
and cut of their garments, in the manner of wearing their
hair, in the way they ordered their homes and their daily
life, they were separate and peculiar. They adopted strin-
gent rules of discipline to prevent the trimming of the
beard, the wearing of hats instead of bonnets, the laying
of carpets, the use of pianos, and similar acts, in. order to
keep themselves pure and unspotted from the world and
maintain their simplicity of life and faith. For many years
the influences of the world seemed to have no effect upon
them; but gradually innovations crept into their habits,
their discipline was insensibly relaxed, and the questions
sent up to their annual meeting grew more numerous and
perplexing, and diflferences of opinion became quite com-
mon. One year this question was presented, among others:
"How is it considered for Brethren to establish or patronize
a high-school?" After canvassing the Bible carefuUy for
light, the following answer was returned : " Considered that
Brethren should mind not high things, but condescend to
men of low estate." Nevertheless the high-school was
established and has since developed into a college. The
Dunkards between 1880 and 1890 split into three bodies.
Association with others inevitably changed the view and
habits of a number of them, and led to innovation. These
innovations were resisted by the more conservative, and
division, where full toleration was not possible, was the in-
evitable result. Consequently, the body that had persisted
for a century and a half as an unworldly, harmonious, and
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xxviii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
united communion was divided into three branches, a Pro-
gressive, a Conservative, and an Old Order branch.
Conservative and liberal tendencies appear in all organ-
izations with which men have to do. They are manifested
in all Churches. When circumstances accentuate them,
only broad toleration and strong interests in common can
prevent division.
7. Analysis op Religious Forces op the United
States. — ^The statistical results given in the census of 1890
more thoroughly and exhaustively than ever before show
that the religious forces of the United States are almost
entirely Christian. The number of organizations and mem-
bers belonging to other than Christian bodies is a very small
fraction of the whole, over one, but less than two, per cent.
Among the non-Christian denominations we coimt the
Orthodox and Reformed Jews, the Society for Ethical Cul-
ture, the Buddhists, and the Theosophists. (The pagan
Indians are not included in the census, and no accoimt is
made of them here.) Those bodies are all insignificant,
except the Jews, and are hardly sufficient in niunber to
constitute a class. Including the Jews, there were in 1890
626 organizations and 132,301 members who are non-
Christian. I assume that the Latter-Day Saints and the
Spiritualists, whatever may be thought of certain features
of their S3rstems of religion, are as bodies properly classed
as Christian. The Latter-Day Saints make much of the
name of Christ, at least, embradng it in the title of both of
their branches. The non-Christian bodies which, excepting
the Jewish, are not growing, but rather decreasing, need not
further engage our special consideration.
The aggregates by which the forces of religion were rep-
resented in 1890 were very large. There were, in the first
place, 111,036 ministers. This number represents chiefly
those in the active service as preachers, pastors, and mission-
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OP 1890. xxix
aries. The percentage of those who, though retaining their
ecclesiastical standing as ministers, have ceased to perform
its duties cannot be large. On the other hand, it should be
observed that the very numerous body of men known to
Methodism as local preachers, some of whom are ordained,
are not coimted; nor are any returns given for those who
exercise the functions of the ministry in bodies like the
Pl3anouth Brethren, the Christadelphians, the Shakers, and
similar societies. The ministry is not an order or an office
among the Plymouth Brethren; but any believer who feels
called to preach is given the opportiuiity to manifest his
gifts. They have, therefore, no roll of ministers to be re-
ported. The vast majority of the 111,036 ministers give
their whole time to their ministerial work, and are supported
by the churches they serve.
The number of organizations, or church societies, or con-
gr^ations was 165,297. This covers not only all self-
supporting churches, charges, or parishes, but also missions,
chapels, and stations where public worship is maintained
once a month, or oftener. Many of these places are sup-
ported by home mission societies or neighboring churches.
It appears that upward of 23,000 organizations own no
church edifices, but meet in halls, schoolhouses, or private
houses.
It would be interesting to know how many meetings are
held by all denominations in the comrse of a year. In some
Catholic parishes five or six services of the mass, in a few
cases even more, are provided every Sunday. In most
Protestant churches there are two services on Sunday, be-
sides the week-night prayer-meeting and special evangel-
istic gatherings. In sparsely settled sections of the South
9nd West bi-monthly or monthly services are the rule.
Besides the rented places, there are more than 142,000
Christian church edifices opened periodically to the gen-
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xxx CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
eral public. If monthly meetings only were held in these
churches, there would be a grand total of 1,711,200 every
year. But as a rule three services are held weekly, not
including the Sunday-school. Probably the actual number
of Sunday and week-night services, to say nothing about
Sunday-school sessions, is between 15,000,000 and 20,000,-
000 a year, with 10,000,000 sermons. Those who would
get some idea of the activity of the Churches in publishing
the good tidings and propagating the principles of religion
must consider the tremendous significance of this conserv-
ative estimate.
The accommodations afforded to Christian worshipers
by the 142,000 church edifices aggregate 43,000,000 and
upward. That is, more than 43,000,000 people could
find sittings at one time in the churches, to say nothing of
other places where divine service is held. The question
has been raised whether, if everybody wanted to go to
church once a week, the churches could contain them. It
is to be said, in the first place, that not all the inhabitants
of any community could attend service at any particular
houj: or on any particular day. Infants, the infirm, the sick,
and those who wait upon them must remain at home, and
it is doubtful, under the most favorable circumstances,
whether more than two-thirds of the population of any
community of a thousand or more could be free to attend
any one service. The churches alone, it appears, furnish
accommodations for over two-thirds of the population, while
the halls, schoolhouses, and other places where sermons are
preached have room for nearly two and a quarter millions
more. As most churches have at least two services every
Sunday, and as many persons attend only one, it seems a
very reasonable inference that if the entire population should
so desire, and sickness and other controlling conditions did
not intervene, they could attend divine worship once a
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OF 1890. xxxl
week. In particular commiinities where the population is
very sparse, the services may be too infrequent; in crowded
centres the church accommodations may not in all cases be
in adequate proportion to the nimibers; but on the whole,
taking all circumstances into consideration, it cannot be
said that the spiritual interests of the millions are neglected,
so far as privileges to worship are concerned.
It is an enormous aggregate of value (nearly $670,000,-
000) which has been freely invested for the public use and
the public good in church property. This aggregate rep-
resents not all that Christian men and women have conse-
crated to religious objects, but only what they have con-
tributed to buy the groimd and erect and furnish the
buildings devoted to worship. The cost has in some cases
run up into the hundred thousands; in many others it is
covered by hundreds; in the vast majority of instances it
is measured by thousands. Every conmiimity has one or
more churches, according to the number, character, and
needs of its population. In crowded cities, where real es-
tate is quoted at high rates, and where churches generally
occupy the best positions, the average value of the edifices
rises to astonishing figures. This is especially true of the
older cities, like New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Bos-
ton, and of the older denominations, such as the Episcopal,
the Reformed Dutch, and the Friends. The average value
of the churches, taking the whole country and all Christian
bodies into accoimt, is $4707. Of course in some denomi-
nations the average is much greater, in others much smaller.
For example, among the Original Freewill Baptists of the
Carolinas it is only $455; while in the Reformed (Dutch)
Church it reaches $19,227; in the Unitarian, $24,725;
and in the Reformed Jewish, $38,839, which is the highest
for any denomination. The high average among the Jews
is chicly due to the fact that most of thei^ communicants
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xxxii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
(nearly 88 per cent.) are to be found in the cities. Of
Unitarian and Episcopal communicants, 48 per cent, are in
cities of 25,000 population and upward. Denominations
which, like the Disciples of Christ, the Methodist Episcopal
Church, South, and the United Brethren, have a constitu-
ency made up chiefly of rural inhabitants, report a lower
average of value. The figures for the Disciples of Christ are
$2392, for the United Brethren, $1513, and for the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, South, $1480. It is to be noted
that the average is much smaller in the Southern than in the
Northern and New England States. As a matter of fact, at
least 20 per cent, of the entire value of church prop-
erty is returned by the State of New York alone; and New
York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Ohio, and Illinois to-
gether have more than 50 per cent, of it. No account is
made in the census report of church debts, and the statis-
tical plan of none of the denominations, with one or two
exceptions, is designed to collect information on this point.
The Methodist Episcopal Church, however, provides for it
in its systematic yearly inquiries. In that body it appears
that the debts on the churches constitute about 11 per
cent, of their value. Whether this proportion holds good
in other denominations it is impossible to say. In some,
doubtless, it is less; in others, more. In the Protestant
Episcopal Church no edifice can be canonically consecrated
until it is fully paid for.
Among the mightiest of the religious forces of this coun-
try are to be reckoned the members or communicants of
the Christian Churches. Allowing for those members who
are dark beacons and either help not at all or help to lead
astray, we have still an army of millions of men and women
who, by lives devoted to the service of God and their own
race, manifest the power of the gospel to reach and regen-
erate the hmnan heart and satisfy its highest aspirations.
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OP 1890. xxxiu
These are active forces, constant in piirpose, with an influ-
ence all-pervading and all-persuasive, touching the hearts
of the young and shaping their tender thoughts for eter-
nity, helping the older to make choice while opportunity
offers, and encouraging the weak and stumbling beUever
to persevere. There were in 1890 nearly twenty and
a half millions of Christian believers, of all creeds and
denominations. A considerable niunber are members
of bodies only nominally Christian, and we should
naturally exclude Spiritualists, Latter-Day Saints, and
certain other denominations. With these omissions we
would still have twenty millions of members, Protestant
and Catholic, which is nearly one third of the entire
population of the United States.^ When it is remembered
that several millions of oiu: population are children too
young to be conununicants, the showing for the Churches
cannot be regarded as unfavorable, by any means. Nearly
one person in every three of all ages is a Christian
communicant.
8. The Religious Population. — ^What is oui religious
population? While no enumeration has been made to as-
certain the religious preferences of the people of the United
States, it is quite possible to form an estimate upon the
basis of the commimicants reported, which will be suffi-
ciently accurate for all purposes. The usual way of com-
puting religious population is by multiplying the number
of communicants of any Protestant denomination by 3 J.
This is on the supposition that for every communicant there
are 2§ adherents, including, of course, yoxmg children. A
careful examination has satisfied me that this supposition
rests on good groxmds. I find support for it in a comparison
between the census returns of the religious populations of
various communions in Canada with those which the de-
nominations give themselves of communicants. It will be
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xxxiv CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
convenient to arrange the returns for pK)piilation and com-
municants in tabular form.
Po]
Methodists 847,469 241,376
Presbyterians 7SS,i99 169,152
Episcopalians 644,106 114,931
Baptists 303f749 78,059
This table indicates that there are 2.5 Methodist, 3.5 Presby-
terian, 4.6 Episcopalian, and 2.9 Baptist adherents to every
communicant. The average is 3.2. This is higher than
I feel warranted in applying to all denominations in the
United States. The proportion varies with the denomina-
tions, and is probably much lower when the smaller and
more obscure denominations are brought into consideration.
Certainly, the results justify us in assuming that there are
at least 2.5 adherents in the United States to each Protes-
tant commimicant, taking all the denominations together.
In round numbers we may take 14,180,000 as representing
the Protestant communicants. This leaves out not only the
Catholics, but the Jews, the Theosophists, the Ethical Cul-
turists, and the Spiritualists. It seems best to omit the
Latter-Day Saints also. Multiplying this nimiber by 3J,
we have 49,630,000, which represents the aggregate of Prot-
estant communicants and adherents, or Protestant popula-
tion. To this we must add the Catholic population, in
order to get the entire Christian population. There are
6,257,871 Catholic conmiunicants of all branches. Catholic
communicants, according to Catholic estimates, constitute
85 per cent, of the Catholic population. There must, there-
fore, be a Catholic population of 7,362,000; adding this
to the Protestant popiilation, we have 56,992,000. This
stands for the Christian population of the United States in
1890. As the population, according to the census, is 62,622,-
250, it would appear that there are 5,630,000 people who are
neither Christian communicants nor Christian adherents.
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS J)F 1890. xxxv
Making liberal allowance for the Jews and other religious
bodies not embraced in the Christian population, there are
5,000,000 belonging to the non-religious and anti-religious
classes, including free-thinkers, secularists, and infidels.
We have, of course, no warrant for believing that the ma-
jority of these 5,000,000 who are outside the religious popu-
lations are atheists, or avowed imbelievers. There are but
few real atheists; few who do not have some belief con-
cerning a supreme being and a future. But most of the
5,000,000 are probably opposed to the Churches for various
reasons. And we must not forget that in the fifty-seven
millions counted as the Christian population are many who
are indifferent to the claims of religion, and seldom or never
go to a house of worship. Adding these, and the large nwax-
ber of members on whose lives religion exercises practically
no power, to the 5,000,000, we have a problem of sufficient
magnitude to engage the mind, heart, and hand of the
Church for a generation. One out of every twelve persons
is either an active or passive opponent of religion; two out
of every three are not members of any Church.
9. The Growth of the Churches. — ^The normal con-
dition of the Christian Church is a growing condition. In
no other way can it manifest the spirit and power of the
gospel; on no other consideration can it retain that spirit
and power. It has received salvation that it might press
it upon those who have it not; the power of the Spirit, that
it might speak in His name; the world as its parish, that it
might convert it. It must be aggressive or cease to be pros-
perous; it must diligently propagate or begin to decline. In
the very nature of things this must be so. Death decimates
yearly the list of conmnmicants. The losses from this and
other causes must be made good by accessions before actual
growth is made apparent. There must be a measure of
increase to prevent decline. All increase beyond that which
repairs the losses we coimt as net increase. Our Churches,
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xxxvi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
almost without exception, manifest the conditions of pros-
perity and growth. Year by year they add to their num-
bers. In some cases the percentage of growth is large; in
others, small; but growth is the rule and decline the rare
exception. We ascertain this, of course, by comparison
of one year's returns with those of another, as furnished by
the denominations themselves, or most of them. It should
be said, however, that denominational statistics are not of
imiform completeness and excellence, and it is difficult in
many instances to obtain them at all for a series of years.
This makes it hard to secure anything like a fair comparison.
The returns of the census of 1890 may be regarded as ex-
haustive and accurate as possible; but there is nothing in
previous censuses with which to compare them. The pub-
lished results of the seventh, eighth, and ninth censuses do
not include communicants at all, and we cannot be sure
from the way they were conducted that they were suffi-
ciently accurate and complete for purposes of comparison.
Results obtained in this way must be taken simply as indi-
cations of increase, not as accurate representations of it.
No distinction was made in 1850 and i860 between church
organizations and church edifices. Two items only ap-
peared in those three censuses in such form as to admit of
fair comparison, viz., church accommodations or sittings,
and value of chiurch property. It appears that the gain in
sittings in the ten years ending in i860 was 34 per cent., and
in value of church property over 100; in the ten years end-
ing in 1870 it was only a little more than 13 per cent, in sit-
tings, but about 100 per cent, in value. Since 1870 the gain
in sittings has been about loi per cent, and in value of
church property, 92. These figures must not, however,
be taken without allowance for the more or less imper-
fect returns of 1870. A more satisfactory comparison
may be made for the larger denominations between the
census returns of 1890 and returns of 1880 gathered
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OF 1890. xxxvii
from denominational year-books. The figures represent
conununicants.
DncMDiATiOMS. x88a i8go. IncreaBe
Baptist, Regular (3 bodies) 2,296,327 3,429,080 1,132,753
Baptist, Freewill 78,012 87,898 9,886
Congregational 384,332 5i2,77i 128,439
Disciples of Christ 350,000 641,051 291,051
Dunkards 60,000 73>795 i3,795
Episcopal, Protestant 343,iS8 532,054 188,896
Episcopal, Reformed 5,000 8,455 3»455
Evangelical Association 99»794 X33,3i3 33,5i9
Friends 100,000 107,208 7,208
Lutheran (all bodies) 693,418 1,231,072 537,654
Methodist Episcopal 1,707,413 2,240,354 532,941
Methodist Episcopal (South) 830,000 1,209,976 379,976
Methodist (other) 987,278 1,138,954 151,676
Moravian 9,212 11,781 2,569
Presb)rterian (North) 573,599 788,224 214,625
Presbyterian (South) 121,915 179,721 57,806
Pre8b3rterian, Cumberland ii3,933 164,940 51,007
Presb3rterian (other) 122,078 145,447 23,369
Reformed (Dutch) 79,269 92,970 13,701
Reformed (German) 151,761 204,018 52,257
United Brethren 156,735 225,281 68,546
^
Total 9,263,234 13,158,363 3,895,129
The increase indicated is large, amoxinting to over 42 per
cent. In the same period, ten years, the population in-
creased at the rate of 24.86. These churches, which em-
brace all Protestant communicants except about a million,
grew faster than the population by 17.19 per cent. That
surely is encouraging. It is a large net gain, and means
that Protestant Christianity, notwithstanding the large
Catholic immigration of the decade, is advancing at a rapid
pace.
The growth of the Roman CathoKc Church for the same
period must have been large. It was fed by a tremendous
stream of immigrants from Catholic Europe and the Catho-
lic section of Canada; and the natural increase of a popula-
tion of six or seven millions must be considerable. How
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xxxviu CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
large it was, however, statistics cannot certainly show. The
Catholic year-books do not give exact returns of Catholic
population, only estimates, based upon diocesan reports of
births and deaths. It is true that the census of 1890 makes
returns for Catholic communicants; but what is there with
which to compare them? Sadlier's "Directory" of 1881
estimated the Catholic population of 1880 at 6,367,330; and
in 1891 at 8,277,039 for 1890 — an increase of 1,909,709, or
about 30 per cent. In view of all the circumstances this
rate of growth does not appear to be too high. If it may
be taken as applying to the increase of Catholic communi-
cants in the decade ending in 1890, it would appear that
the Catholic Church must suffer very heavy losses, for its
net increase is far below that of the Protestant Churches
represented in the above table. How otherwise can its
moderate rate of increase be reconciled with the enormous
accessions it must have received by an immigration which
helped the Lutherans and a few otier Protestant bodies to
a far more limited degree?
10. How THE Religious Forces Are Distributed. —
While the religious forces are established in every State
and Territory of the Union and bear more than a hundred
and forty different denominational titles, they are massed
in a few denominations and in a comparatively few States.
The five largest denominations comprise 60 per cent, of the
entire niunber of commiuiicants; and the ten largest, 75
per cent. The Roman Catholic Church is first, with
6,231,000; the Methodist Episcopal second, with 2,240,-
000; the Regular Baptists, Colored, third, with 1,349,000;
the Regular Baptists, South, fourth, with 1,280,000; and
the Methodist Episcopal, South, fifth, with 1,210,000. The
Catholic figures are truly of magnificent proportions. They
exceed by more than 150,000 the sum of those representing
the four next largest denominations. Every tenth person
in the United States is a Catholic communicant. It is only
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OP 1890. xxxix
fair, however, to remind those interested in this statement
that while a communicant is a communicant considered
statistically, whether he be a Catholic or a Protestant, there
is a difference between the Protestant and the Catholic
basis of membership which ought to be kept constantly in
view when comparison is undertaken. The Catholic au-
thorities coxmt as communicants all who have been con-
firmed and admitted to the communion, and these virtually
constitute the Catholic population, less aU baptized persons
below the age of nine or eleven. The Catholic discipline does
not contemplate excommunication for violations of the
moral code, only for lapses from the faith and refusal to
obey the ecclesiastical commandments. There are many
who go to make up the Protestant population who have
been expelled from membership for offenses which the
Catholic Church treats by a very different method. In other
words, while the Catholic Church reckons that 85 per cent.
of its population are communicants, among Protestants
the proportion is estimated to be xmder, rather than over,
30 per cent. The Protestant basis of membership is belief
and conduct; the Catholic, belief and obedience. In any
given thousand of Catholic population there are 850 com-
municants and 150 adherents; while a thousand of Protest-
ant population yields only about 300 commimicants, the
remaining 700 being adherents. Thus, while the 6,231,000
Catholic commimicants represent a Catholic population of
about 7,330,000, the 2,240,000 communicants of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, alone, indicate a Methodist popu-
lation of 7,840,000.
The Roman CathoUc Church is first also in value of
church property, of which it returns, in roxmd numbers,
$118,000,000. The Methodist Episcopal is second ($97,-
000,000); the Protestant Episcopal third ($81,000,000);
the Northern Presbyterian fourth ($74,000,000); and the
Northern Baptists fifth ($49,000,000). Two of these de-
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xl CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
nominations, the Episcopal and the Presb3rterian, are not
among the five which return the largest mmiber of com-
municants. They stand third and fourth respectively in
the table of church property, showing that they are much
more wealthy in proportion to communicants than any of
the five larger denominations.
In niunber of organizations, or congregations, the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church comes first, with 25,861, and the
Roman Catholic last, with 10,231. The Southern Baptists
are second, with 16,238; the Southern Methodists third,
with 15,017; and the Colored Baptists fourth, with 12,533.
The reason the Catholic congregations number only two-
fifths as many as the Methodist Episcopal is because their
parishes are so much larger and more populous. Some
Catholic parishes embrace from 12,000 to 16,000 commu-
nicants, all using the same edifice. It is a common thing in
the cities for Catholic churches to have five and six different
congregations every Sxmday.
To recapitulate: The Roman Catholic Church is first
in the number of communicants and value of church prop-
erty, and fifth in number of organizations and houses of
worship; the Methodist Episcopal is first in the nimiber
of organizations and houses of worship, and second in the
number of commimicants and value of church property.
Let us now see how the five leading denominational
families or groups stand. The Catholics, embracing seven
branches, come first as to communicants, with 6,258,000;
the Methodists, embracing seventeen branches, come second,
with 4,598,000; the Baptists, thirteen branches, are third,
with 3,718,000; the Presbyterians, twelve branches, are
fourth, with 1,278,000; and theLutherans, sixteen branches,
are fiftii, with 1,231,000. It will be observed that the com-
bined Methodist branches have about 1,600,000 fewer com-
municants than the combined Catholic branches.
As to the value of church property, the Methodist fam-
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OP 1890. xli
ily is first, the figures being $132,000,000. The Catholic
family is second, $118,000,000; the Presb3rterian third,
$95,000,000; Episcopalian fourth, $82,835,000; the Bap-
tist fifth, $82,390,000. Thus, among denominational
families the Catholics are first in the number of commu-
nicants, second in value of church property, and fourth in
the number of organizations and houses of worship. The
Methodists are first in the niunber of organizations and
houses of worship and value of church property.
Naturally we should expect to find the greatest number
of communicants in the States having the greatest popula-
tion. New York has nearly 6,000,000 population, and
returns 2,171,822 communicants. Pennsylvania, second
in population, is also second in communicants, reporting
1,726,640. Illinois is third in population, but fourth in
communicants; Ohio, fourth in population, but third in
communicants; Missouri, fifth in population, but sixth
in commimicants; Massachusetts, sixth in population^ but
fifth in communicants. This shows that the percentage of
communicants to population varies even in the older States.
In New York it is 36.21; in Pennsylvania, 32.84; in Ohio,
33.13; in Illinois, 31.43; and in Massachusetts, 42.11. The
highest in any State is 44.17, in South Carolina; the lowest,
12.84, in Nevada. The highest percentage is not foxmd in
any State, but in a Territory. New Mexico's population
are communicants to the extent of 68.85 P^^ cent.; and,
strange to say, Utah is second, its percentage being 61.62.
New Mexico is predominantly Catholic. This explains its
high percentage of communicants. Utah is the stronghold
of the Mormons, and, like the Catholics, they report a large
membership in proportion to their population. The Cath-
olics are niunerically the strongest in thirty-three States and
Territories, including the New England, the Pacific, the
newer Northwestern, and various Western and Southern
States; the Methodists in South Carolina, Tennessee, West
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xlii CHARACTERISTICS JN THE UNITED STATES.
Virginia, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Indian Territory,
Kansas, and Oklahoma; the Baptists in Alabama, Arkansas,
Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Texas, and
Virginia; and the Latter-Day Saints in Utah.
It is interesting to note that Pennsylvania is the strong-
hold of the Lutherans, the Presbyterians, the Moravians,
the Mennonites, and the Reformed (German); North Car-
olina of the Methodists; New York of the Catholics, the
Jews, the Episcopalians, the Universalists, and the Re-
formed (Dutch) ; Massachusetts of the Congregationalists,
Unitarians, Swedenborgians, Spiritualists; Georgia of the
Baptists; Missouri of the Disciples of Christ; Indiana of
the Friends; Ohio of the United Btethren.
While New York is first among the States in niunber of
communicants and also in value of church property, it does
not occupy this position as respects number of organizations
and of church edifices. Pennsylvania leads in both these
particulars, having more organizations and church edifices
than any other State. Ohio occupies the second place
and New York the third as to edifices and the fifth as to
organizations. The following table shows how the posi-
tions of the leading States vary in the diflFerent coliunns.
In each list the States are arranged in the order of niuner-
ical precedence.
Communiaiits. ^"^R^J^S?!^ Church Edifices. Orsaniations.
1. New York. i. New York. i. Pennsylvania. i. Pemuylvanxa.
2. Pennsylvania. 2. Penn^Ivania. 2. Ohio. 2. Ohio.
3. Ohio. 3. Massachusetts. 3. New York. 3. Texas.
4. Illinois. 4. Ohio. 4. Illinois. ^4. Illinois.
5. Massachusetts. 5. Illinois. 5. Georgia. 5. New York.
6. Missouri. 6. New Jersey. 6. North Carolina. 6. Missouri.
7. Indiana. 7. Missouri. 7. Missouri. 7. Georgia.
8. North Carolina. 8. Michigan. 8. Alabama. 8. North Carolina.
9. Georgia. 9. Indiana. 9. Indiana. 9. Indiana.
10. Texas. 10. Connecticut. xo. Tennessee. 10. Alabama.
Only six States appear in all these tables, viz., New York,
Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana. Texas,
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OP 1890, xliii
which is tenth in the list arranged according to number of
communicants, and does not appear at all in those for value
of church property and number of church edifices, stands
third in that for nimiber of organizations. This indicates
that the average number of communicants to each organiza-
tion is much smaller in Texas than in the other States men-
tioned. Texas has a smaller percentage of urban popula-
tion than the other States, excepting North Carolina,
Alabama, and Georgia; it has an immense area, and it is
therefore natural that its organizations should be small and
numerous.
II. The Evangelical and Non-Evangelical Ele-
ments.— ^These terms are commonly applied to Protestants.
The sense in which they are used has ahready been defined;
but it is easier to define the terms than to classify denom-
inations under them. In which class, for example, should
Universalists be put? They have not been admitted to the
Evangelical Alliance, chiefly because of their views respect-
ing the nature and duration of future punishment; but on
the main points of New Testament Christianity they are
generally evangelical. On the single question of the future
of the wicked dead some of the branches of the Adventist
family and other bodies would be excluded from the evan-
gelical list; but, on the whole, would it be quite fair to
class as non-evangelical those who believe in the divinity
of Christ, in the necessity and sufficiency of his atonement,
and in salvation by faith alone? By some the Christians
or Christian Connection have been classified with the Uni-
tarians; but they have become, in late years, quite ortho-
dox, and are undoubtedly evangelical. In most evangelical
denominations persons are to be f oimd who are non-evan-
gelical; and in some of the non-evangelical denominations
there are members who are thoroughly evangelical. Yet we
cannot draw the line through denominations; we must
draw it between them. The classification must therefore
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zliv
CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
be more or less arbitrary, and due allowance should be
made for this fact.
There are a few bodies which manifestly ought not to
be classified as either evangelical or Uberal. These may
properly be put in a separate list.
EVANGEUCAL DENOMINATIONS.
DDIOMINAIIONB. SSS ^^^^
Advcntists 1,757 60,491
Baptists 43,029 3,717,969
Brethren (River) iii 3,427
Brethren (Plymouth) 314 6,661
Catholic Apostolic 10 1,394
Christadelphians * 63 1,277
Christians 1,424 103,722
Christian Missionary Association 13 754
Christian Union 294 18,214
Church of God 479 22,511
Congregationalists 4,868 512,771
Disciples of Christ 7,246 641,051
Dunkards 989 73,795
Evangelical Association 2,310 133,313
Friends (3 bodies) 855 85,216
Friends of the Temple 4 340
German Evangelical Synod 870 187,432
Lutherans 8,595 1,231,072
Mennonites 550 41,541
Methodists 51,4^9 4,589,284
Moravians 94 11,781
Presb3rterians 13,476 1,278,332
Protestant Episcopal (2 bodies) 5,102 540,509
Reformed 2,181 309,458
Salvation Army 329 ^,742
Schwenkfeldians 4 306
Social Brethren 20 913
United Brethren 4,526 225,281
Independent Congregations 156 14,126
Total 151,158 13,821,683
Cathouc.
Catholic bodies 10,276 6,257,871
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OP 1890. xlv
Non-Okibodox.
Onni-
aiSoai.
Christian Scientists 221 8,724
Church of the New Jerusalem 154 7,095
Church Triumphant (Schweinfurth) 12 384
Communistic Societies 32 4,049
Friends (Hicksite) 201 21,992
German Evangelical Protestant 52 36,156
Latter-Day Saints 856 166,125
Spiritualists 334 4S»030
Unitarians 421 67,749
Universalists 956 49)i94
Total 3,239 406,498
Non-Christian.
Chinese Temples 47
Ethical Culturists 4 1,064
Jews 533 130,496
Theosophists 40 695
Total 624 132,255
Recapituiation.
Evangelical 151,158 13,821,683
Catholic 10,276 6,257,871
Non-Orthodox 3,239 406,498
Non-Christian 624 132,255
Total 165,297 20,618,307
From this it appears that the non-evangelical, non-
orthodox, and non-Christian bodies count a little more than
half a million, or about 2.6 per cent, of the aggregate. The
evangelical communicants are to the non-evangelical as
76 to I, and constitute more than 67 per cent, of all commu-
nicants, Christian and non-Christian.
It further appears that the evangelical organizations out-
number all other organizations nearly 11 to i, and form
more than 91 per cent, of the aggregate.
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xlvi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
12. Classification Accx)rding to Polity.— The ex-
tended tables given at the end of this book are not, perhaps,
very attractive. But they will repay careful study. There
are many significant facts to be obtained from an examina-
tion of the summaries of colored organizations, of denomi-
nations arranged according to polity, and of churches in the
cities. The last is a new feature in church statistics.
Of the classification according to polity a word of ex-
planation is necessary. It is difficult in some cases to know
how to classify. It is clear enough that Baptists, Congre-
gationalists, and Disciples of Christ are congr^ational;
but it is not so clear where the vast body of Lutherans be-
longs. They are not, I am persuaded, purely presbyterian,
nor purely congregational, and certainly not purely epis-
copal. My own inclination was to classify them as presby-
terian, and I wrote to representative men among them for
their opinion, and it will be interesting to quote from some
of the responses.
President Henry E. Jacobs, of the body known as the
General Council, says:
I am not Burprised at your perplexity concerning the classification of Lutherans
with respect to church polity. As the form of government is regarded as unessen-
tial, and to be determined according to circumstances, there is a lack of uniform-
ity. The Sjrnodical Conference gives to synods only advisory power, and requires
the ratification of all synodical resolutions, and even the election of professors of
theology, by the congregations. Nevertheless, they agree with the Presbyterians
in maintaining a distinction between the Uty and preaching elders, as one resting
upon Scriptural foundations. Muhlenberg's scheme of church government clearly
belongs to a generic presbyterianism; and this has been propagated in General
Council, General Synod, United Synod of South, and most of the independent
synods. The General Council rejects, however, lay elders, as not warranted in
Scripture; although in most of its older congregations the constitutions have not
been changed and a lay eldership is retained simply as a useful but not a Scriptural
or necessary church institution.
However you may classify us, you will, therefore, not escape criticism — ^and
that, too, with some basis of truth; but taking everything into consideration, I
believe that you are right in classifying us as presbyterian.
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890. xlvii
The Rev. J. Nicum, of the same branch, says the Lu-
theran Church is not strictly presbyterian, though usually
so classified, nor is it congregational.
Everywhere in the Lutheran Church there are conferences, synods, consistories,
etc., to whom questions of ordination, discipline, appeals from decisions of vestries
or congregations are taken.
If you now ask me for a positive opinion as to what the polity of the Lutheran
Church really is, I say it is episcopal, or at least more nearly so than anything
else. Our presidents of conferences and of aynods are really bishops. They are
everywhere charged with the supervision of the churches, their visitation, the ordi-
nation of paston» and the recommendation of suitable men to vacant parishes.
They also biy the cornerstones to new church buildings, dedicate them, install
ministen, or appoint suitable persons to attend to these matters for them. This
practice is universally followed in the Synodical Conference, in the General Coun-
cil, and in almost all the independent aynods. Jure dirino, every pastor is bishop
of his flock, but the institution of diocesan bishops is a matter of human expedi-
ency. This is the Lutheran view.
Professor M. Giinther, of the Synodical Conference,
writes:
You may be right in supposing "that it is, rather, presbyterian," if you have in
view Eastern bodies. But for them (General Council and General Synod) I would
not speak.
As to the Synodical Conference, its polity is not strictiy congregational, but
near to it — in reference to the main principle of Congregationalism, that every con-
gregation is independent and self-governing. We differ in regard to the mode in
which Congregational churches assbt each other, etc.
Our congregations have freely entered into a synodical union for mutual assist-
ance and oversight, for the purpose of more effectually securing imity and purity
of doctrine, and of more successfully advancing the general interests of the church
(institutions, missions, etc). They are represented by their pastors and lay dele-
gates, who act in their name^ in some cases being instructed by them. (Pastors
whose congregations have not as yet joined synod have no vote.) Synod with us
has only advfaory power, no legislative or judicial power.
Our qmodical orKUuntion differs quite from that of other bodies, even Lu-
theran. In our body congregations govern themselves — dedde matters in con-
gregational meetings. In others, congregations are governed by church coimdls.
Synods are regarded as legislative and judicial bodies, deposing pastors, etc.,
giving pastors whose congregations do not belong to synod a vote, etc.
The polity of the Synodical Conference is, therefore, neither strictly congregar
tional nor presbyterian. It is based on the so-called "Collegial System" (in con-
tradistinction to episcopalism and territorialism), formed according to the liberty
which the church enjoys in this free country.
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xlviii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
Professor George H. Schodde, of the Independent Synod
of Ohio, says:
In theory, and in practice too, among the most thorough-going representatives
of historic Lutherantsm, tlie congregational principle is maintained and lived up
to; in reality, and by common consent, so much power has been delegated the
synods that the polity almost seems prcsbyterian. There is no disagreement in
principle among us as to the congregational character of our polity; but ui prac-
tice synods are generally a good deal more than advisory bodies. When, however,
it comes to a dash, I have never heard of asynod of any prominence that has daimed
a right to control the a£fairs of any congregation. The latter is the highest court of
appeal. "Synod is merely an advisory body" Is in theory the fundamental basis
of our polity. The strug^e between the Ohio Synod and the General Coundl some
fifteen years ago was only on the practical application of this prindple, not on the
prindple itself. I think our leading men would with one voice say that our polity
is congregationa], and the church to be classified as such.
I give a single other opinion, from a letter by Professor
E. J. Wolf, of the General Synod. He says:
Theoretically, our polity is congregational. Practically, it has varied according
to environment, especially so because Lutherans have never daimed any polity to
be divine right. The Missourians carry out strictly the congregational idea. ' Thdr
churches are republics, thdr ministers are presidents, though when in ofiEice they
are almost absolute monarchs. In the other divisions we have synods correspond-
ing to the presbyteries of Calvinism, and general bodies made up of deputies from
the synods; but when it comes ''to the powers and functions of the synod," th^
can hardly be said to conflict seriously "with the idea of pure Congregationalism."
These powers are almost wholly "advisory." The exceptions to this rule are that
the Augsburg Confession is the admowledged or implied basis of every Lutheran
church, and the General Synod reserves the ezdusive right of publishing hymn-
books, liturgies, and catechisms. Should, however, any congregation decline to
use such manuah as the General Syno4 provides, it cannot be disdplined, although
cases may arise where the synod will forbid one of its members to offidate in a
recaldtrant congregation. The congregation itself cannot be dissolved, and if it
sees fit to withdraw from the synod, it does not lose its character as a Lutheran
sodety, though the synod would not allow one of its menbers to serve such a con-
gregation.
In other words, the synod has control over the ministers, which it can depose as
well as ordain, although again theoretically, in both cases, only at the instance of
a congregation. But the congregation does not stand or faU through any action
of synod. And just here is the pivotal pmnt where Congregationalism and pres-
bjrterianism both come into our polity. A minister once a member of a synod is
subject to its requirements— he must submit to the body he has joined. A congre-
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890. xlix
gation can defy a sQmod's action; but the only prqudice it suflfefs is to looe its
connection with the synod. It resumes an independent relation, or it may join a
^ynod connected with another general body.
Amid such conflicting opinions, I have deemed it proper
to make a sort of compromise, and classify the Synodical
Conference and the Ohio Synod, which all agree are less
presbyterian than other Lutheran bodies, as congregational,
and all the rest, except the independent congregations who
also go into the congregational list, as presbyterian.
13. The Churches in Cities. — The tables devoted to
the statistics of the Churches in the cities are quite exhaus-
tive, including all municipalities having a popidation of
25,000 and upward. The cities are divided, for the sake
of convenience, into three classes: first, those having 500,-
oco population and upward; second, those having a popu-
lation of 100,000 to 500,000; and third, those having a pop-
idation of 25,000 to 100,000.
The results are, in brief, that there are 5,302,018 com-
mimicants in these cities, or more than a fourth of the ag-
gregate for the whole country; 10,241 organizations, which
is less than a sixteenth of the whole number; 9722 church
edifices, which is a little larger proportion; and church
property valued at $313,537,247, or more than 46 per
cent, of the grand total. The large figures representing
church property do not need an explanation. The high
values of dty property account for them. The cities have
an aggregate population of 13,988,938. Of this popula-
tion it appears that one for every 2.64 persons is a com-
municant. This is a higher average tiian obtains in the
country generally, where it takes more than three persons
to yield one communicant. In the United States there are
337+ communicants in every thousand population; in the
dties, nearly 379 in every thousand. Much of this differ-
ence may be explained by the fact that the Roman Catholic
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1 CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
strength is chiefly in the cities, and it has a larger proportion
of communicants to its religious population than any other
denomination. The fact that the average of communicants
to popidation is so large in the cities must be an encourage-
ment to those who fear that the church is losing its grip on
the masses crowded into our cities.
In the matter of church edifices a little calculation wiU
make it appear that the dties of the second and third classes
have more in proportion to population than those of the
first class. The latter have one to 2147 of the popidation;
those of the second class, one to 1468; and those of the
third class, one to 1052.
Of the denominations, 37 are not represented in any of
the cities. Only three — the Roman Catholic, Methodist
Episcopal, and Protestant Episcopal — are represented in
all of them. Of the Jews (Orthodox), nearly 92 per cent,
are in the cities; of the Jews (Reformed), more than 84
per cent.; of the Unitarians and Episcopalians, upward of
48; of the Roman Catholics, more than 42; of the Pres-
byterians (North), nearly 29; of the Methodists (Episcopal),
nearly 15; and of the Southern Baptists and Southern
Methodists, only about 4.
14. The Negro m ELcs Relations to the Church. —
The negro is a religious being wherever you find him and
under whatever conditions. In his own continent, where
civilizing influences have hardly begim to lift him above the
state of savage degradation in which he has so long re-
mained, his religious instincts are dominant. They find
expression often in superstitious, idolatrous, and cruel rites
and observances; but he has, nevertheless, conceptions of
beings of exalted power who affect the destiny of men.
The negro of the United States has no religion but the
Christian religion. He is not a heathen, like our native
Indian. He worships but one God, who is a just and mer-
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OP 1890. U
dful God, desiring that all men should be free from sin,
and shoidd come to a knowledge of the way of life through
Jesus Christ. He is still more or less superstitious; he
still has some faith in the power of charms; there is still
some trace of heathenish practices in him; but our own
race has not altogether outgrown childish thoughts about
imlucky da)rs and the way to avoid the evil they bring,
and how mascots procure success. We cannot condenm
the negro for his superstition without taking blame upon
ourselves for the tenacity with which we cling to belief in
signs and times and things, lucky and unlucky.
The negro of the United States is a Christian, not an
atheist or a doubter. He gives no coimtenance to secularist
or free-thinking organizations; nor does he prefer abnormal
types of religion, such as Mormonism and spiritualism.
Moreover, he is not a rationalist, or a theosophist, or an
ethical culturist. He does not turn aside to adopt the
erratic ideas of little coteries of religionists. Neither does
he show a preference for the Roman form of Christianity.
The splendid ceremonies of Catholic worship might be sup-
posed to have a strong attraction for him, but it is not so.
The actual membership of separate negro Catholic churches
does not exceed fifteen thousand, and yet the Catholic
Church is not weak in Louisiana or Maryland or the District
of Columbia. Thirty-one represents the total of separate
Catholic negro churches, not including, of course, the
negro communicants in mixed churches.
The negro is not only a Christian, he is an evangelical
Christian. He is a devout Baptist and an enthusiastic
Methodist. He loves these denominations, and seems to
find in them an atmosphere more congenial to his warm,
sunny nature, and fuller scope for his religious activity,
than in other communions. Perhaps this is due to his long
association with them and his training. There is no reason
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lii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES,
to believe that he might not have been as intense a Presby-
terian as he is a Baptist, or as true a Congregationalist as he
is a Methodist, if these denominations had been able to come
as near to him in the days of his slavery as did the Baptist
and Methodist churches. It? was fortunate for him that,
while he was the slave of the white master, that master was
a Christian and instructed him in the Christian faith. The
school was practically closed to him; but the church was
open, and thus he came into personal freedom and into the
rights of citizenship an illiterate man, but a Christian, with
that measure of cidture in things spiritual and moral that the
Christian faith, voluntarily accepted, necessarily involves.
According to the census of 1890, there are 7,470,000
negroes in this country. This includes all who have any
computable fraction of negro blood in their veins. Oi
these all except 581,000 are in the old slave territory,
now embraced in sixteen States and the District of Colum-
bia. In other words, notwithstanding the migration of
negroes to the North and West, 91 per cent, of them are
still in the South, on the soil where the Emancipation
Proclamation of 1862 reached them, and made them for-
ever freej from involuntary bondage. The negro chiurches
of the South, therefore, form a large and important factor
in the Christianity of that section. In ten of those States
the number of negro communicants ranges between 106,000
and 341,000, and in four of them it exceeds the total of
white communicants. Thus in Alabama, Georgia, Missis-
sippi, and South Carolina there are more colored than white
communicants, although in Mississippi and South Carolina
only does the negro popidation exceed the white. This
shows that in point of church-membership the negro is
quite as devoted as his white brother. Indeed, the pro-
portion of colored people who are connected with the church
throughout the United States is larger than that which
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RESULTS OF THE CENSUS OF 1890, liii
obtains among the white people. About one in every three
whites is a church-member. On this basis there should
be 2,410,000 colored members. The actual niunber is
2,674,000, or an excess of 264,000 beyond the proportion
that obtains among the whites.
The aggregate of colored communicants in the United
States, so far as it could be ascertained by the careful
methods of the census, is, in roimd numbers, 2,674,000.
This includes all colored denominations, and all colored
congregations in mixed denominations, so far as they
could be ascertained; but it does not take accoimt of col-
ored commimicants in mixed congregations. The number
omitted, however, cannot be very large. The States in
which the negro commimicants are most numerous are as
follows:
Georgia 34i>433 Texas 186,038
South Carolina 317,020 Tennessee i3i>oi5
Alabama 297,161 Louisiana 108,872
North Carolina 290,755 Arkansas 106,445
Virginia. . . : 238,617 Kentucky 92,768
Mississippi 224,404 Florida 64,337
In these twelve States are foimd 2,398,865 communicants,
leaving about 275,000 to the rest of the States and Terri-
tories of the Union.
As to denominational connection, the negro is predomi-
nantly Baptist. More than half of all negro communicants
are of this faith, the exact niunber being 1,403,559. Most
of these are Regular Baptists, there being less than 20,000
in the Freewill, Primitive, and Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit
branches. It is significant that the negro prefers the pro-
gressive and missionary type of the Baptist faith, and does
not believe in the Hard-shell, Old School, or anti-mission-
ary wing. Not less Calvinistic than the most Calvinistic
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liv CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
of the Regular Baptists, he is also strict in his practice and
thoroughly denominational in his spirit, and takes no little
satisfaction in winning negro members of other bodies to
the Baptist faith.
The number of negro Methodists is 1,190,638, or about
213,000 less than the aggregate of colored Baptists. The
Methodists are divided into more branches than the Bap-
tists, those having the episcopal system embracing the great
majority of church-members. The Presbyterians have
about 30,000, the Disciples of Christ 18,578, and the Prot-
estant Episcopal and Reformed Episcopal bodies somewhat
less than 5,000. The Baptists are organized into associa-
tions, and have State conventions; the Methodists and
Presbyterians into annual conferences and presbyteries. A
large measure of superintendence is characteristic of the
Methodist bodies, the system of episcopal and sub-episcopal
supervision resulting apparently in more intelligent en-
deavor, greater concert of action, and better discipline.
The increase in the number of colored communicants
since emancipation has been marvelous. How many of
the slaves were church-members is not and cannot be known
certainly. Such statistics as we have must be regarded as
imperfect, particularly of the colored Baptists. There were
of colored Methodists at the outbreak of the war about
275,000, as nearly as I can ascertain. According to this,
there has been an increase in thirty years of over 900,000
negro Methodists. This is truly enormous. In the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church alone are more colored communi-
cants, mainly in the South, than the Methodist Episcopal
Church, South, reported in 1865, and the two leading African
branches have had a marvelous growth. The number of
colored Baptists in i860 did not, probably, exceed 250,000.
We do not know, of course, how many colored communi-
cants there were who were not organized into churches and
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RESULTS OP THE CENSUS OF 1890, Iv
reported in denominational statistics. But according to
the figures we have, there was an increase in thirty years of
more than 1,150,000 colored communicants. I know of no
parallel to this development in the history of the Christian
church, when all the circumstances are considered.
The negro, considering the little wealth he had when
slavery ceased, has achieved wonders in the accumulation
of church property. The value of the churches he owns is
$26,626,000, the number of edifices being 23,770. Making
due allowance for the generous help which the whites have
given, it still appears that the negro has not been imwiUing
to make large sacrifices for the sake of religion, and that his
industry, thrift, and business capacity have been made to
contribute to his successful endeavors to provide himself
with suitable accommodations and to encourage men of his
o¥m race to fit themselves to serve him as ministers in the
expectation of a reasonable support.
The forgoing pages apply entirely to conditions as
shown by the census of 1890.
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PART n.— THE GOVERNMENT CENSUS OF 1906.
It is to be regretted that the second complete census of
religious denominations was not taken for the decennial
year 1900. While the census law forbade the doing of any
work for the first two years of the period except that of
gathering and compiling the statistics of populations and
manufactures, it might have been possible, beginning in
1902, to have obtained the statistical facts for 1900. For
purpose of comparison the decennial period is quite as de-
sirable and necessary for religious growth as for growth of
population; indeed the one is associated with the other.
Nevertheless a government census of religious denomina-
tions is of particular value, whenever taken, for the re-
sources of the Census Office are not limited as to money,
clerical and expert help, and facilities of communication.
The mails are free for correspondence, and experts can be
sent to any part of the country for personal inquiry where
letters fail. The intelligence, perseverance, and skill
brought to bear in securing the results of 1906 are to be
highly conmiended, and the wide range of the inquiry
brought together numerous items of information which the
census of 1890 did not try to obtain. If in some particulars
the census of 1906 seems unsatisfactory or doubtful, at
most points it is complete and accurate. I do not adopt its
summaries among the tables given in this volume, except
of States, chiefly because they do not conform to the de-
cennial period, but I use its figures for those denominations,
mostly small and obscure, which make no returns and give
Ivi
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THE GOVERNMENT CENSUS OF 1906, Ivii
no estimates, and of which little can be ascertained except
by personal visitation and inqtiiry. I give herewith some
of the special statistics afforded by the census of 1906.
The table, given further on, compiled from the census of
1906, shows the division by sex of communicants, something
new in religious statistics, only a very few denominations
ever having given it; value of church property (not includ-
ing parsonages) not reported annually by a large number of
denominations; and niunber of Simday-school scholars, in
which particular not all denominational statistics have been
complete. It should be noted that the statistics include
returns of sex of members for 193,229 organizations, or
church societies, 19,001 not reporting; of value of church
property for 186,132 organizations, 26,098 not reporting,
and of Sunday-school scholars for 167,574 organizations,
44,656 organizations not reporting.
I. Sex in Membership. — ^The highest percentage of
female membership is reported for the Church of Christ,
Scientist, 72.4; the Congregationalists, 65.9; the Seventh-
Day Adventists, 65.2; the Protestant Episcopalians, 64.5;
the Northern Presbyterians, 63.5; and the Methodist
Episcopal Church, 62.6. The average for all denominations
is 56.9. The Roman Catholics report nearly an even divi-
sion, 50.7 per cent female and 49.3 male. Of the Latter-Day
Saints, 47.6 per cent, are males and 52.4 per cent, females.
Immigration is imdoubtedly an important factor in the per-
centages. There are naturally many more males among the
newly arrived foreigners than females. This it is that
makes the percentage of females in the Greek Orthodox
Church only 6.1, and in the Himgarian Reformed Church
31.3. Of the 1,285,349 immigrants admitted to the United
States in the year ending June 30, 1907, 929,976, or 72.4
per cent, were male, and 355,373, or 27.6 per cent, female.
Nearly aU those coming from Greece and Turkey, and other
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Iviii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
countries of Eastern Europe, from East Indian Korea, and
Japan, were males. The census report calls attention to
the fact that the percentage of males is generally higher in
the South than the North.
Table of Special Statistics.
iur.miwM« Vahie Sunday-
M-1^ pL-W Church adioSr
Male. Female. Property. Schofaus.
Adventists (6 bodies) — 32,088 55,221 $2,425,209 69,1x0
Baptists (16 bodies) 2,055,558 3,289,327 139,842,656 2,898,9x4
Brethren (Dunkards) (4
bodies) 39,928 53,676 2,802,532 78,575
Brethren (Plymouth) (4
bodies) 4>390 6,x6i > 18,200 8,9ix
Brethren (River) (3 bod-
ies) X,823 2,746 165,850 2,8X2
Buddhists (2 bodies) 2,387 778 88,000 913
Catholic Apostolic (2 bod-
ies) 1,9x4 3,0x3 x6i,50O 420
Catholics (Eastern Ortho-
dox) (5 bodies) 89,904 17,827 1,002,791 849
Catholics (Western) (3
bodies). 5,i94,279 5,332,544 293,193487 X482,824
Chnstadelphians 626 786 3,245 480
Christians 40,740 60,022 2,740,322 72,963
Christian Catholic
(Dowie) 2,330 3,535
Christian Scientists 22,736 59,596 8,8o644x i6,xx6
Christian Union 5,626 7,406 299,250 9,234
Church of God (Winne-
brennerian) 9,198 14,012 1,050,706 29,487
Churches of the Living
God (Colored) (3 bod-
ies) ... ... 1,686 2,590 58,575 1,760
Church of the New Jeru-
salem (2 bodies) 2,579 4,489 1,791,041 3,544
Communistic Societies (2
bodies) 966 1,306 31,190 X03
Con^regationalists 236,968 457,^X5 63,240,305 638,089
Disdples of Christ (2 bod-
^»es)... 432,682 65o,x39 29,995,3x6 634,504
Evangehcal (2 bodies). . . 67,448 100,972 8,999,979 2x4,998
Faith Associations (x4
bodi«).... 4,397 5,790 532,185 7,615
Free Chnstian Church. . . 740 1,095 5,975 340
> Only 9 coDgregations have chtircfa property.
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THE GOVERNMENT CENSUS OF 1906,
liz
Valne SuikUt-
PiwMU Cbiuch school
^™^ Property. SchoUn.
Friends (4 bodies) S»i7o8 60,224 $3^857,451 S3i76i
Friends of the Temple... 158 218 11,000 168
Gennan Evangelical Prot-
estant 12,830 17,724 2,556,550 ",362
Gennan Evangdical
Synod xxi,68i 138^34 9,376,402 xi6,io6
Jewish Congregations 23,198,925 49,514
Latter-Day Saints (a
bodies) 117,026 128,776 3,168,548 130,085
Lutherans (24 bodies) . . . 853,339 998,009 74,826,389 782,786
Swedish Evangelical (2
bodies) 11,977 14,821 1,638,675 32,504
Mennonites (15 bodies).. 25,053 29,745 1,237,134 44,922
Methodists (15 bodies) . . 2,042,713 3,268,664 229,450,996 4,472,930
Moravians (2 bodies) — 6,532 9,189 936,650 12,998
Non-Sectarian Bible Faith
Churches 3,368 3,028 25,910 x.976
Pentecostal Churdi 1,968 3,289 383,990 5,039
Presbyterians (12 bodies) 633,598 1,037,197 150,189,446 1,511,175
Protestant Episcopal (2
bodies) 255,165 462,851 126,5x0,285 474,2X5
Reformed (4 bodies) i8x,6i9 24X,542 30,648,247 261,548
Salvationists (2 bodies) . . x 1,977 xx,36o 3,184,854 17,521
Schwenkfdders 3x8 407 38,700 99X
Social Brethren 487 775 13,800 x8o
Sodety for Ethical Cul-
ture 1,303 737 466
^iritualists X5,i35 i9>552 958,048 2,699
ll&eosophical Societies. . . 953 x,583 52,300 78
Unitarians 2X,8x7 35>866 X4,263,277 24,005
United Brethren (2 bod-
ies) 107,369 x6o,623 9,073*791 301,320
Univeisalists 18,279 33,346 10,575,656 42,201
Independent Congrega-
tioM 26,895 38,0x2 3*934,267 57,680
Total X2,767466 16,849,505 $1,257,575,867 14,685,997
2. Value of Church Property.— The total valuation
of church pri^erty, not including parsonages, of all de-
nominationSy was $1,257,575,867, showing an increase in the
16 years since the census of 1890 of $578,149,378, or 85.1
per cent. The increase, in the same period, of communicants,
was 604 per cent, exclusive of Jewish congregations. The
increase in value is not accompanied by a corresponding in*
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Ix CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES,
crease in the number of church edifices and in their seat-
ing capacity. The gain in church edifices was 50,308 in
a total of 192,705, or a percentage of 35.3; and in seating
capacity of 14,976,767 in a total of 58,536,830, or 34.4 per
cent. The condusion, therefore, is that more costly edi-
fices have been erected, and that there has been a large
natural increase in values, with increase in cost of living.
The gains in value of chiurch property were very un-
equally distributed. The Roman Catholic Church, the
largest of all denominations, reported $292,638,787, a gain
of 147.7 per cent. The Methodist bodies standing next, with
$229,450,996, gained only 73.6. The Presbyterian bodies,
coming third, with $150,189,446, gained considerably less,
58.3; the Baptist bodies, with $139,842,656, gained nearly
70 per cent., and the Protestant Episcopal Church, with
$125,040,498, gained 54 per cent. The Lutheran bodies
more than doubled their church valuation, reporting in
1906 $74,826,389, an increase of $39,766,035, or 113.4 per
cent. The Disciples of Christ advanced from $12,206,038
to $29,995,316, or 145.7 per cent.
The average value of church edifices has a wide variance.
The Unitarians having their congregations mostly in cities
report the highest average value — $35,141; the Jewish
congregations, imder similar conditions, come second, with
$31,056; the Roman Catholics, whose vast strength is also
largely in populous centres, is third, with $28,431; the
Christian Scientists, fourth, with $21,961; the Protestant
Episcopal Church, fifth, with $20,644. On the other hand,
the Methodist and Baptist bodies being widely distributed,
and each having a vast niunber of edifices, report average
valuations of $3,884 and $2,834 respectively. As compared
with the Roman Catholics, the Methodist bodies have more
than five times as many edifices and the Baptist bodies more
than four times as many.
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THE GOVERNMENT CENSUS OF 1906. W
5. Average of Members to Church Edifices.— The
Roman Catholic Church has only 11,881 church edifices for
its 12,079,142 communicants, indicating an average of
1,017 communicants to each edifice. The Lutherans have
one church edifice to 188 communicants, the Presbyterians
one to 1 19, the Baptists one to 113, the Episcopalians one to
102, and the Methodists one to 96. As between Roman
Catiiolic and Protestant denominations, the difference in
average is very marked. It is due, of coiurse, to the fact that
Roman Catholic services Sunday mornings include from one
to eight or nine masses, attended generally by different con-
gregations, while in Protestant churches one service Sun-
day morning is the rule. Some Catholic parishes report a
population of 16,000 or more. The entire seating capacity
of Catholic churches is only 4,494,377, as against 17,053,392
of Methodist churches and 15,702,377 of Baptist churches.
In other words, the seating capacity of Catholic churches
is only sufficient to accommodate a little over one-third
of the Catholic communicants at any one hour, while
that of the Methodist churches would accommodate
nearly three times as many persons as they have commimi-
cants.
4. Tendency of Population to the Cities. — ^The
marked tendency of the population to the cities is abun-
dantly established by the last two or three decennial cen-
suses; in none has it been so great as in that of 1910. The
total of popidation in cities (50 in number) having over
100,000 was in 1890, 11470,364; in 1900 it was 15,199,375;
in 1910 it was 20,303,047, indicating an increase of 3,729,001
in the first of the two decades, and of 5,103,672 in the second;
or, in percentage, of 32.5 for the first and 33.6 for the second
decade. The percentages of increase in particular cities in
the last decade were phenomenal — ^in Birmingham, Ala.,
over 245; in Los Angeles, Cal., over 211 ; in Seattle, Wash.,
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hii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
194; in Spokane, Wash., over 183; in Portland, Ore., more
than 1 29 ; and in Oakland, Cal. , more than 1 24. Allowance
must be made, in some cases, for annexation of suburban
territory; most of the increase, however, is the result of the
sweep of population to the cities.
Taking cities having 25,000 to 100,000 population in 1910,
179 in niunber, we find they have an aggregate of 8,204,960
popidation, against 5,878,814 in 1900, indicating an in-
crease of 2,326,146, or 39.6 per cent., as compared with 34.3
per cent, in the previous decade.
The cities having 25,000 population and upward in 1910
niunber 229. The total of population they report is 28,-
543,816, an increase for the decade of 7,465,627, or over
35 per cent. In round numbers, the total population of the
United States, not including Alaska, Porto Rico, and Hawaii,
is 92,000,000, and the gain of the decade about 16,000,000.
It woidd appear, therefore, that while the population of the
cities is 31 per cent of the total population of the coimtry,
the absolute increase reported by them i&more than 46 per
cent, of the increase for the whole country. In other words,
the increase for the whole country, including the cities, is
2 1 , while the increase for the dties is over 35 per cent. Much
more striking is the fact that the increase of the popidation,
54,900,000 in round numbers in 1900, and 63,498,450 in
1910, outside the cities was only 8,528,450, or between 15
and 16 per cent, while the increase in the 229 cities was
7,465,627, or over 35 per cent.
5. Communicants in the Cities. — ^The drift of popula-
tion to the cities must, of course, affect the churches as
profoimdly as it affects the municipalities. The business
area must increase, involving changes in the residence sec-
tions. Hence the down-town problem, congested areas,
foreign-speaking sections, new residence areas, etc., re-
quiring quick and extensive adjustments by the churches.
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THE GOVERNMENT CENSUS OP 1906.
Ixiii
The following table, compiled from the United States Cen-
sus of Religious Bodies for 1906, shows the relative strength
of the various religious bodies in the cities, 160 in/nimiber,
having, according to the census of 1900, 2S,oo&rtad more in
population outside the cities:
COMHUMICANTS IN THE CeTIES.
CiCieB
as.000
•ad over.
Bi4>t]8t bodies 686,784
^ Christian Sdentists 70,773
Congregationalists 317*507
^isdples of Christ 130,755
friends I3>i39
Jewish Congregations. . . 89,947
Lutheran bodies 521,494
-Mennonite bodies h^7^
Methodist bodies 812,099
Presbyterian bodies 503i775
Protestant Episcopal. . . 453,966
''Reformed bodies i37>937
Roman Catholic 6,307,529
'Unitarians 32,840
All other bodies 53^ A^^
Total 10,511,178
Oataide
Percent.
Percent.
tbe
in the
outside
dtiCB.
dties.
the cities.
4,975,450
I2.I
87.9
14,945
82.6
17.4
482,973
3I.I
68.9
1,011,604
II.4
88.6
100,643
"5
88.5
",510
88.7
II.3
1,591,000
24.7
75.3
53,622
2.1
97.9
4,937,739
14.1
85.9
1,326,780
27.5
72.5
432,976
51-2
48.8
311,577
30.7
69-3
5,776,613
52.2
47.8
37,702
46.6
53.4
1,365,133
38.9
61.I
22,425,267 31.9 68.1
The percentage of church-members in the cities, 31.9, is,
on the whole, a fair showing for the churches. Assuming
that the change in population percentages since 1906 have
not been very great, it would appear that the percentage of
church-members in the cities, 31.9 in 1906, is only a few
points behind that of the population, 33.6 in 1910.
6. Value of Church Property in the Cities.— The
following table, gathered from the United States Census of
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Uiv CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
1906, shows the value of church property in cities of the
various classes:
Average Value op Chtt&ch Property in the Cities in 1906.
«™^- No. ^^ Value. ^vjn^c
300,000 and over ii 5,770 $34o,430»592 $S9»ooo
100,000 to 300,000 27 3,903 110,357,931 28,275
50,000 to 100,000 40 3,075 82,271,671 26,755
25,000 to 50,000 82 3,769 79,773,121 21,166
Total * 160 16,517 $612,833,315 $37,103
Outside the cities 176,278 644,742,552 3,657
Grand Total i92,79S $i|257,S7Si867 $6,523
It will be observed that nearly half the total value of
church property in the United States is reported in the 160
cities; the 16,517 churches in the cities returning a total
valuation of $612,833,315, while 176,278 churches outside
the cities returned a valuation of $644,742,552. That is to
say, nearly eleven times as many churches outside the
cities returned a valuation only $32,000,000 greater than
the chiurches in the cities. This is not at all surprising, as
not only is property vastly more valuable in the crowded
centres, but there the churches command wealth, and
buildings are much larger and more sumptuous. The
average value of city edifices, including, of course, site
and furniture, is $37,103, while the average value of
churches outside the cities is $6,523.
7 . Growth by States in Communicants.— The changes
in sixteen years shown in the column of communicants by
States are quite remarkable. The increase in communi-
cants for the United States, not including its colonial posses-
sions and Alaska from 1890 to 1906, reached 12,332,990, or
nearly 60 per cent, for the sixteen years. The increases in
1 According to census of igoo ; the number in zqzo was aao.
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TEE GOVERNMENT CENSUS OF 1906. Ixv
the various States would naturally be a£fected by the tides
of migration — the flow from foreign immigration and the
flow or ebb of population from or to other States; also by
the prevalence of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Ortho-
dox Churches, which report a much higher percentage of
their "populations" as commimicants than do other bodies.
The States least affected by foreign immigration are natu-
rally those of the South and the far West; but those of the
far West have increased immensely by the migration of
population from States east of the Rocky Mountains.
The older South has contributed to the currents setting to
the Pacific Coast, but more heavily to those which have
filled up Texas, Oklahoma, and Arizona and crossed the
border to the Canadian Northwest.
8. The Rate of Growth in the South. — ^The increase
of commimicants in the body of the South has naturally
fallen below the percentage which obtains in the whole
country. Virginia, to begin south of the Potomac, the
Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida (de-
spite the migration from the North), Arkansas, Kentucky,
Tennessee, all fall below the general percentage of gro¥rth,
North Carolina showing a gain of only 20 per cent. Louisi-
ana constitutes a notable exception in the rate of increase,
having ahnost doubled its number of commimicants, which
is far beyond the increase of population. The explanation
is to be found in the growth of the Roman Catholic Church.
It had in 1890 a little less than 20 per cent, of the population ;
in 1906 it had 31 per cent. In the same period the popula-
tion increased nearly 38 per cent. Taking the States of the
South, except Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, which had an
unusual growth in the period under consideration, it will be
foimd that in every State, save North Carolina alone, the
net increase in communicants was large, considerably larger
than the net increase of population, showing that the
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Ixvi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
Churches in that section of the country, whatever may be
said of other sections, enjoyed a high measure of prosperity.
The following table of increases will make this dear:
Percentage of Peicentase of
Statks. incieaae in popu- increase in ooinmu-
latioii, z8qo-X9o6. nicants, 1890-1906.
Alabama 33 47
Arkansas 26 44
Florida 161 $6
Georgia 33 52
Kentucky 25 42
Louisiana 48 95
Maryland 22 25
Mississippi 32 53
Missouri 26 6$
North Carolina 27 20
South Carolina 26 79
Tennessee 23 26
Texas 54 81
Virginia 13 38
It is very remarkable that Virginia, gaining only 13 per
cent, in population, should have gained 38 per cent, in com-
mimicants; and simply amazing that Missouri and South
Carolina should show such immense advances in Church
growth beyond the growth in population. Oklahoma,
though properly a Southern State, is not included in the
above comparison, because its growth has been abnormal,
and has been gathered from many sources.
Putting the matter in another way, the Churches have
made, in most of the Southern States, a marked gain upon
what may be roughly called the imchurched population;
that is, those who are not commimicants. For example,
in Missouri, in 1890, 72.5 per cent, of the population were not
church-members; in 1906 the percentage was 64.3; in Vir-
ginia, whose increase in population was only 13 per cent., the
number of persons in every 100 not church-members was
reduced from 65.6 in 1890 to 59.8 in 1906; in Louisiana,
from 64.2 in 1890 to 49.4 in 1906.
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THE GOVERNMENT CENSUS OF 1906, Ixvii
9- The Largest Absolute Increases.— Turning now
to the other States of the Union we find that the largest
absolute increases in communicants were as follows:
New York 1,420,152 Wisconsin 444,420
Pennsylvania 1,250,382 Michigan 412,975
Illinois 874,609 Louisiana 378,909
Massachusetts 619,870 Georgia 349,986
Texas 549,745 New Jersey 349,i97
Ohio 526,407 Califomia 330,845
Missouri 463,400 Minnesota 301,852
In most of these States the chief factor in the gains is the
Roman Catholic Church. In New York and New Jersey
the Protestant percentage of the population was less in
1906 than in 1890, while the Catholic was greater. In
Pennsylvania, the Protestant gain was 2.8, the Catholic 7.1 ;
in Massachusetts, the Protestant gain was .6; the Catholic
8. In Texas the Protestants have 25.8 of the population,
a gain of one-tenth of i per cent, while the Catholics
advanced from 4.5 to 8.7. Ohio is still a strong Protes-
tant State; Missouri likewise, but in the latter the Catho-
lics are gaining faster than the Protestants. In Michigan
and Wisconsin the rate of Catholic growth is large, the
Catholic percentage of population in the latter having in
the period imder review passed the Protestant. Louisiana
is, of course, strongly Catholic. Georgia is a Baptist State,
and there the Catholic growth is inappreciable. Califomia
shows a gain in the Protestant percentage of population of
4.9 and of Catholic 8.6. The latter now have 21.5 in every
100 and the former 14.3. In Minnesota, which is a Luth-
eran State, the Protestant percentage has advanced from
19.7 to 22.2, while the CathoKc percentage has fallen from
20.7 to 18.7. This is one of ten States which show an in-
crease in the Protestant percentage and a decrease in the
Catholic, namely Maryland, Florida, Minnesota, North
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Ixviii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
Dakota, Tennessee, Wyoming, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah,
Oregon. The same is also true of the District of Columbia.
The growth by percentage brings into view a different list
of States, as follows:
Oklahoma 652 South Dakota 89
Washington 227 New Hampshire 8$
Idaho 210 Texas 81
Montana 202 Wisconsin 80
North Dakota 167 Rhode Idand 79
Nevada 154 Nebraska 78
Colorado 137 Illinois 73
California 118 Michigan 73
Wyoming 105 Pennsylvania 72
Louisiana 95 Oregon 70
10. Effect of Migration. — In this group of States the
large percentages are not specially significant, except as
showing how migration into the newer States is a£fecting
church growth. In seven of the States they are large be-
cause the numbers were so small in 1890; they were not re-
markably large in 1906. Colorado and Califomia have both
grown by the flow of migration into their borders, but the
gains of the Churches have been greater than those of popu-
lation. New Hampshire has lost in Protestant and gained
in Catholic percentage, due chiefly to immigration. The
large Texas percentage is due chiefly to the enormous in-
crease in popidation. Wisconsin, Rhode Island, Illinois,
and Michigan owe their notable percentages largely to
Catholic growth, to which immigrants have no doubt greatly
contributed. Nebraska was nearly stationary inpopulation;
but the Churches, both Protestant and Catholic, appear to
have been exceedingly active, and very successful in adding
to their membership. Pennsylvania shows a much larger
percentage of communicants of all faiths in 1906 than in
1890.
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PART m — THE RETURNS FOR 1900 AND 1910
AND WHAT THEY SHOW.
As already stated the Government census of religious
bodies was not repeated in 1900 and 1910; but was taken
in great elaboration of detail in 1906. As some of the
denominations do not attempt to gather and publish annual
statistics of their own numbers, it is necessary either to
take the census returns for them or to prevail upon their
leading ministers to furnish more or less approximate
estimates. As the census agents do particxilarly eflfective
work in reaching these denominations it is manifestly the
part of wisdom to adopt the census figures in such cases.
Therefore in the general tables of 1900, the census of 1890
has been followed in particular cases, and in those of 1910,
that of 1906.
I. Growth of the Churches in the Past Twenty
Years. — ^A study of the denominational simamaries for
1900 and 1910 will give much encouragement to those de-
sirous that the Churches shall prosper and prevail. The
growth in these periods, considering the increasing complex-
ity of the population, the multiplication of languages, the
immense tide of foreign immigration from Eastern, Southern,
and Northern Europe, and other coimtries; the crowding
of the cities with a heterogeneous population, and the crea-
tion of problems of congested foreign quarters, "down-town"
churches, etc.; the draining of rural districts and the ques-
tion of abandoned country churches; sudden migrations
from older to newer States — considering the immense
Izix
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Ixx CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
difficulties the Churches have had to encounter, the growth
of the last twenty years has been most remarkable. There
never was, it is safe to say, a more active double decade in
the history of the coxmtry. The problem of finance alone,
which has been carried to a successful solution, would have
brought a paralysis of discoiiragement upon a previous
generation. The building of new chxurches for new com-
munities and in newer sections of older commmiities; of
costly cathedrals and churches of modem character and
equipment in cities and towns; of large and expensive
structures to replace old and outgrown edifices; the in-
creased expense of elaborate church adornments and fur-
nishings ; the constantly growing budget of current expenses
for ministerial salaries, for music, maintenance, etc.; the
call for home and foreign missions, schools, colleges, hos-
pitals, and other necessary church institutions — ^these and
similar demands have tested the loyalty and resources of
church-members.
Chmrch-members must have realized that though they
may occasionally sing "Salvation's free," it costs enor-
mously to maintain it, and yet they have multiplied in a
remarkable degree. The net gain in the first ten years was
six and two-third millions and in the second seven and two-
third millions — ^more than sixteen and a half millions in the
two decades — 1890-1910. It must not be forgotten that
before any net increase can be reported the losses due to
death, removal, withdrawal, excommxmication, etc., must
be made good out of new accessions. The 16,626,989 of net
increase in the twenty years represent a growth of nearly
81 per cent. In other words, at this rate of increase the
aggregate of communicants in 1890 — 20,618,307 — ^would be
doubled in less than twenty-five years. With aD conceivable
allowances for a large immigration, etc., this rate of advance
is truly most remarkable.
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TEE RETURNS FOR 1900 AND 1910. Lai
2. The Largest Absolute Increases. — ^The denomina-
tions showing the largest absolute increase in communicants
during the twenty years are: the Roman Catholic, 6,183,-
680, or 99 per cent.; the Southern Baptist, 1,003,000, or 78
per cent.; the Methodist Episcopal, 946,508, or 42 per cent.;
the Disciples of Christ (the older branch), 667,065, or 104
per cent; the Methodist Episcopal Chiirch, South, 641,173,
or 53 per cent; the Presbyterian (Northern), 540,490, or
69 per cent; the Colored Baptist, 441,176, or 33 per cent.;
the Northern Baptist, 410,263, or 51 per cent ; the Lutheran
Synodical Conference, 409,1 28, or 1 15 per cent ; the Protes-
tant Episcopal, 396,726, or 75 per cent; and the Congrega-
tional, 222,629, o^ 43 P^^ cc^t.
By denominational families or groups the chief gains were:
Catholic, chiefly Roman 6,199,588
Methodist 2,025,768
Baptist 1,885,168
Lutheran 1,012,414
Disciples of Christ 823,723
Presbyterian 642,433
3. Growth of the Roman Catholic Church.— The
miracle of growth is, of course, the Roman Catholic. It
has been three times as great as that of the Methodist
group and six times as great as that of the Lutheran group.
Its natiural increase, supposing that it holds most of those
bom of Catholic parents, would be very large; but Eiirope
and French Canada have poured an immense stream into
its pale and given it predominance wherever the foreign
element is considerable. It is, indeed, a polyglott Church,
holding more nationalities in its commimion, doubtless,
than any other Church; all assimilated in an effective
domination by a hierarchy largely of the Irish race. Its
cardinals, ardibishops, bishops bear, at least the great
majority of them do, unmistakable Celtic names. It is one
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Ixxii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
of the most remarkable facts of history that Ireland, so
long deprived of home nde in the British Union, has made
so great an impress upon not only the political history of
the United States, but also upon its religious life, through
both the Catholic and Protestant Churches.
4. Religious Popuiation in 1910. — ^Dividing the de-
nominations into groups, we have:
Communi-
cants.
1. Evangelical Protestant 21,471,747
2. Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox 12,826,420
3. Unorthodox Protestant 795,414
4. Jewish 143)000
5. Miscellaneous, Buddhist, Theosophist, etc 8,715
Total 35»245i296
It is quite probable that the ratio ol 2}i adherents to each
communicant, applied to the Protestant group in 1890,
would be too large in 1910. The proportion of children
who are church-members is imquestionably larger than it
was twenty years ago. All Churches receive children into
that relation much earlier in life than formerly and there
are other factors tending to reduce the ratio of adherents
to communicants, particularly the relaxation of discipline
and the retention of some who formerly would have been
dropped, expelled, or exconununicated. At any rate we can-
not apply the ratio ij4. It would use up so much of the
population that, with the other groups added, we shoidd
have more religious than actual popidation. Reducing the
ratio to three for the Evangelical Protestant group; taking
the Roman Catholic population as reported and estimating
that of the Eastern Orthodox Churches on the same basis;
putting down from denominational sources the Jewish
population at 1,900,000; and giving liberal estimates for
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THE RETURNS FOR 1900 AND 1910, kxiu
the populations of the remaining groups, we have the fol-
lowing result:
1. Protestant population 64,415,241
2. Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox population. . 15,089,906
3. Jewish popidation 1,900,000
4. Unorthodox Protestant population 1,000,000
5. Miscellaneous population 12,000
Total religious population in United States 82,417,147
The population of the United States in 1910 was 91,972,-
266. The religious population in the same year was 82,-
417,147, leaving 9,555,119 persons presmned to|^be without
any religious preference. Among this niunber are included
the pagan Indians. Twenty years ago the total religious
population was estimated at 59,992,000, and those without
denominational preference at 5,630,000. It woidd appear
that in the twenty years there has been a gain of 22,425,147
in the religious population, or 37 per cent., and of 3,925,1 19
in the non-religious population, or nearly 70 per cent. These
figures, however, must be taken as approximate only.
They are estimates which have no very sure basis and are
given simply for what they are worth.
5. Changes of Twenty Years.— It will be seen that
the list of denominations in 1910 is not shorter, but rather
longer, than it was in 1890. The process of creating new
denominations by division of existing ones has gone on with
little or no interruption. The Salvation Army now exists
as two bodies, the American Salvation Army being the
newer branch; the Disciples of Christ has suffered a divi-
sion and there is an organization known as Churches of
Christ; the colored Primitive Baptists are now reported
separately from the white Primitive Baptists; there is a
second New Jerusalem Chiurch and a second Catholic
Apostolic Church; the Theosophists are divided, and the
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boiv CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
United EvangeEcal Church and the Polish National Church
represent separations, the former from the Evangelical
Association, the latter from the Roman Catholic Church.
The Scandinavian Evangelical bodies, three in nimiber, take
the place of one Swedish Evangelicalbody, which was in
existence in 1890, but was not includecr in the census. Im-
migration has brought to the United States several Eastern
Orthodox Churches not represented here in 1890 — the
Servian, the S3rrian, the Roumanian, and the Bulgarian;
also the Union of Bohemian and Moravian Brethren, the
Hungarian Reformed Church, and the Japanese Buddhists.
On the other hand, a nimiber of denominations, all quite
small, have disappeared, including six communistic socie-
ties, the Old Catholic Church, and other insignificant
bodies. Union has practically done nothing to reduce the
total of denominations. In 1906 a imion was in part con-
summated of the Cumberland Presbyterian with the North-
em Presbyterian Chiurch, but the Ciunberland organiza-
tion is still maintained and it claims a majority of mem-
bers reported in 1906. A imion for co-operation in general
denominational work, missionary, educational, etc., has
been arranged between the Northern and Free Baptists,
and it may lead to a consolidation of churches and associa-
tions. Denominations represented in 1890 as consisting of
two branches, the Jews and the Christians, are now classed
as one, with no better reason for doing so, however, than
obtained twenty years ago.
The total of denonfiinations may be set down at 170 in
1910, counting the Faith Associations separately, which is
perhaps questionable, and consolidating certain evangelistic
churches with independent congregations. This aggregate
indicates an increase of 27 in the twenty years, the number
returned in 1890 being 143. What is said of the religious
bodies of 1890 can be said just as truly of those of 1910;
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TEE RETURNS FOR 1900 AND 1910. Ixxv
many of them are small and imimportant. A full half of
the 170 bodies report less than 10,000 communicants each,
and 70 have less than 5,000 each. To put the matter in
another way, the great mass of communicants are found
in the first 37 denominations in Table III, embracing all
denominations having 100,000 and upward. These 37
bodies contain more than 95 per cent, of all communicants,
o^ 33>58o,ooo, leaving only 1,665,000 for all the remaining
133 bodies. From all which it appears that the division
of religious bodies is more a matter of name than of fact.
6. OsDER Accoia>iNG TO Denoicenational Familiks
OR Groups. — ^In the order of number of commimicants the
several denominational groups stand as follows in 1910:
I. Roman Catholic (3 bodies) 12,443,520
3. Methodist (16 bodies) 6,615,052
3. Baptist (ij bodies) 5*603,137
4. Lutheran (23 bodies) 2,243,486
5. Presb3rterian (12 bodies) 1,920,765
6. Disciples of Christ (2 bodies) 1,464,774
7. Episcopalian (2 bodies) 93^>39o
8. Reformed (4 bodies) 448,190
9. Latter-Day Saints (2 bodies) 400,650
10. Eastern Orthodox (7 bodies) 385,000
11. United Brethren (2 bodies) 303>3i9
12. Evangelical (2 bodies) 182,065
13. Friends (4 bodies) 123,718
14. Brethren (Dimkards) (4 bodies) 122,847
15. Adventist (6 bodies) 95*646
16. Scandinavian Evangelical (3 bodies) 62,000
17. Mennonite (11 bodies) 54,79*
18. Salvationist (2 bodies) 26,275
The Catholics, Methodists, and Baptists maintam the
order of 1890. The chief changes in the twenty years have
been as follows: the Lutherans take fourth place from the
Presbjrterians, and the latter fall back to fifth place; the
Disciples (one body in 1890) take sixth place and the
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Ixxvi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
Episcopalians fall back to seventh place ; the Eastern Ortho-
dox Churches come into view the first time and take tenth
place, the United Brethren going down from the eighth to
the eleventh place. The other changes are not significant.
7. Increase in Negro Communicants. — ^The negro
population of the United States increased from 7,488,676
in 1890 to 9,828,294 in 1910. This indicates a net gain in
the twenty years of 2,335,618, or 31 per cent. The table
given among the summaries for 1900 and 1910 shows that
the gain in the same period in negro communicants was
1,061,152. This is more than 40 per cent. It appears,
therefore, that the Negro is gaining in church member-
ship faster than he is gaining in population. He must
also be growing in financial ability, for the increase in
negro churches has been about 60 per cent.
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PART IV— DOMINANT RELIGIOUS ELEMENTS.
I. Characteristics of Christianity in the United
States. — The Christianity which prevails in the United
States is Orthodox and Evangelical, using Orthodox as de-
scriptive of the Churches, Roman Catholic and Oriental,
which adhere to the Ecumenical Creeds, and Evangelical
as applicable to such bodies as Baptists, Congregational-
ists, Methodists, Lutherans, Presbyterians, Reformed, and
Episcopalians. Together these Orthodox and Evangelical
bodies constitute the great bulk of the Christian forces which
possess the coxmtry and determine and dominate its relig-
ious life.
Foremost nimierically as a denomination is the Roman
Catholic Church. Though it was the first to set up the
Christian altar on this soil, and its missionaries were pio-
neers in exploration and settlement in the great West and
far South, it was not a strong Church at the close of the
colonial period. There were in 1 784 hardly 30,000 Catholics,
most of whom were in Maryland and Pennsylvania, the
rest being widely scattered. Immigration from Ireland
gave the Church its first considerable impulse of growth,
and immigration — Irish, German, French, Italian, Polish,
etc. — has made it the largest and most composite Church in
the United States. The wonder is that the Church could
receive and care for such masses of diverse nationalities. Its
energies have been severely taxed, but it has managed to
organize and equip its parishes as rapidly as necessity re-
quired, and in recent years to give more attention to its
kzvii
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Ixxviii CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
educational facilities, which had been neither excellent nor
adequate. A church composed so largely of European
elements, with an episcopate foreign in nativity or extrac-
tion, education, and ideas, imder the immediate control of
a foreign pope and his coimdlors, would hardly be ex-
pected to fall in at once with American ideas, particularly
with that idea which distinguishes oxu: system of popular
education from that of all other coimtries. The Catholic
hierarchy has been openly hostile to our public schools, de-
nouncing them as either sectarian or godless, protesting
against the injustice of being taxed for the support of insti-
tutions they could not patronize, and insisting that they be
relieved of school rates or that the school moneys be divided
and a fair share given to Catholic schools. The determined
popular resistance to this demand increased Catholic hos-
tility and made the struggle a somewhat bitter one. It is
not strange that many Protestants should regard a foreign
church, with foreign ideas and imder foreign domination, as
a menace to American institutions; but no candid observer
will hesitate to admit that, whatever may be said concern-
ing the attitude of the priesthood, the Catholics as a body
are as American as the Lutherans. No impartial and in-
telligent person now believes that they want to subvert our
liberties or destroy our government. We may justly accuse
them of meddling too much at times in party politics; we
may deprecate the favor they sometimes receive in mimid-
pal councils; but in all those fimdamentals which make our
government thoroughly and securely Republican, Catholics
are at one with Protestants. Their sentiment toward the
public schools is still antagonistic, and it would be too much
to say that they are becoming reconciled to it. Their op-
position, however, though perhaps not less firm, is less de-
monstrative. Apparently they are convinced that their
demands concerning the public schools and public-school
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DOMINANT REUGIOUS ELEMENTS. Iznz
moneys cannot be obtained, and they are developing their
sjrstem of parochial schools at heavy cost, thus seeking to
provide, at much sacrifice, schools for their own children,
particularly of primary and grammar grade, in which the
tenets of their faith are freely and fully taught. Their atti-
tude toward the public-school problem is represented by the
American Federation of Catholic Societies in the following
propositions:
'' I. Liet our schools remain as they are. 2. Let no com-
pensation be made for religious instruction. 3. Let our
children be examined by a State or municipal board," and,
if the work done is satisfactory, let payment for the sup-
port of Catholic schools be made from the public funds.
There were, in 1910, 4,972 parochial schools with an
attendance of 1,270,131.
The Catholic Chxurch in the United States, while thor-
oughly loyal to the central government at Rome and obedi-
ent to the decrees of the pope, is nevertheless an American
institution. When, some years ago, the centenary of the
first Catholic bishop in the United States was observed, the
preacher, an archbishop, declared with emphasis that the
Catholic Chxurch in the United States must be definitely
and thoroughly American. The ecclesiastical garment must
not be of a foreign cut or have a foreign Uning even. Per-
haps the distinguished prelate would not so express himself
to-day, for conservative rather than progressive churchmen
seem to get recognition when cardinals' hats are bestowed;
but nevertheless the American school of thought exists and
makes its influence felt.
It is a curious fact that while Catholicism is numerically
the leading den<»nination in considerably more than half
of the States, actually outnumbering in old New England
the Protestant communicants combined, it is in no State
in the ascendant in influence. New England is still Protest
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kxx CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
tant in its characteristics, and there are as yet no signs of a
revolution in its distinctive institutions. The reason is not
far to seek. The Roman Catholic force is in its masses;
the Protestant power lies in generations of occupancy and
training. Protestantism furnishes the ideas which have
made New England what it is and which maintain it essen-
tially imchanged. The Protestant leaven is more powerful
and persistent than the Catholic leaven.
2. Evangelical Chrisiianity Dominant. — Evangeli-
cal Christianity is the dominant religious force of the United
States. In its various denominational forms it shapes the
religious character of the American people. That it has
been influenced in no degree by the non-evangelical or
rationalistic churches, I would not venture to say. Doubt-
less its humanitarian impulses have been quickened and
strengthened by the example of Unitarianism; but I shotild
be at a loss to name the particidar influence which the Church
of Rome has exerted upon it. There has been an increase
of what some call churchliness, and confessionaUsm has
developed to a remarkable degree among the Lutherans;
but these are limited movements, and do not give character
to the Christianity of the day. The Catholic revival in the
Protestant Episcopal Church is spending itself within the
denomination, and High and Broad Church parties are now
in control.
The great and absorbing purpose of Evangelical Chris-
tianity seems to me to be the spread of the gospel. There
are those living who can remember when a far less exalted
idea possessed the Church, when it seemed to think its
sphere was not in the world, and its main duty not to the
world, but to those within its own pale. Now it knows that
it is in the world to save the world; that while God loves
the saint, he also loves the sinner; that while he has ''more
graces for the good," he has messages of love for the bad.
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DOMINANT REUGIOUS ELEMENTS. Ixxxi
It considers itself as commissioned to cany these messages
to every heathen land, to every destitute commimity, to
every godless home, and to every unconverted person.
Evangelical Churches are like bustling camps of spiritual
soldiers who are being told off to go to this country and
that, to this destitute section and that, with the gospel of
peace, to conquer the whole world for Christ. So thoroughly
has this missionary spirit possessed the body of evangelical
Christians, that the smallest and most obscure divisions feel
constrained not only to evangelize home communities, but
to have their representatives abroad.
3. Evangelical Christianity Systematically Or-
ganized.— ^This dominant purpose has made agencies and
organizations and financial methods necessary. The busi-
ness of saving the world requires organization complete and
extensive; it requires administrators, agents, means, ma-
chinery, enterprise. All these the Church has provided, and
a great system has been worked out, rivaling in its universal
operations and the volume of its transactions that of any
commercial project of which we have knowledge. Any
kingdom, coimtry, province, island, settlement, with hardly
an exception, can be reached directly and quickly through
the numerous channels of coromunication established by
gospel enterprise. If a devoted man or woman wants to
enter a field of work abroad, the widest range of choice is
presented. Any coimtry between Greenland and New
Zealand, in the western or eastern circuit of the globe,
may be selected, and there is a gospel society to coromis-
sion him and send and support him. If any one has a sum
of money to be applied to the proclamation of the gospel,
he may have it expended in any presidency in India, in
any division in Japan, in any kingdom in Africa, or in any
island of the sea. The machinery exists to place it wher-
ever he wants it to go.
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Izxdi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
We have the same appliances for work at home. Here
are Indians, Chinese, and negroes; ignorant and vicious
populations; groups of foreigners; the frontiers of civiliza-
tion and the centres of cities; the prairies and the slums;
the jails, asyliuns, and workhouses. Here is book and
Bible work, evangelistic work, reformatory work, educa-
tional work, missionary work, and many other forms of gos-
pel benevolence, with abundance of machinery for all the
exigencies of service. Places are ready for the men and
women, and societies exist to commission and direct them,
and to collect and administer the necessary funds.
Organization is, indeed, one of the characteristics of the
Church of to-day. The idea of organization was in the
first church ever formed. Where two or more believers
are, there is a call for fellowship, for association, and for
co-operation. The Church of the present is but working out
more fully the central idea of Christian fellowship. This
fellowship is now xmderstood to be for mutual helpfulness
and for service. We are saved to serve, and we can serve
best if we serve according to some system. Hence we
organize. Every church has come to have its committees
for regular and special work. The women are organized
for those parish duties which they can best perform; for
missionary work for which they have special aptitude.
They are given a much larger share of the Lord's business
than our forefathers dreamed of allotting to them. We
have organized our yoxmg people. This is one of the most
remarkable movements of the century in religious work.
This mighty development has come almost within a genera-
tion. The young people of both sexes have been banded
together into Endeavor Societies, Epworth Leagues, Unions,
and the Uke, and their members are numbered by the million.
By organization for prayer, praise, and Christian work, and
particularly training in public service, a great body of yoimg
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DOMINANT RELIGIOUS ELEMENTS. bucxiii
believers have been made a positive, aggressive force in all
our Churches. Who can measure the influence which
these yoxmg people thus organized will exert in the inmiedi-
ate future? Not many years ago the cry was raised: "We
are losing our hold on the young people. They are not
coming into the Church. They are growing up indifferent
to religion." To-day we have no more devoted and en-
thusiastic and helpful workers in the Church than the yoimg
people.
4. EVANGEIICAL CHRISTIANITY EVANGELISTIC. — ^The
evangelical Christianity of to-day is not polemic. It is
intensely practical. It emphasizes more than it used to the
importance of Christian character and of Christian work.
It is less theological in its preaching, making more, indeed,
of biblical exposition, but less of doctrinal forms and defi-
nitions. And yet it would be wrong to say that it makes
Kttle or no accoimt of belief. All that it says, all that it
doeSy is based upon profoimd and unshaken belief. It is
the gospel it declares and is trying to work out in a practical
way. The Church of to-day is a gospel Church. It has
the fullest confidence in the power of the gospel, and believes
it was given for all men, is adapted to all conditions, and is
to become supreme in the world. Christ, the centre of this
gospel, is the divine Lord and Master of the Church. Belief
in Him as a human manifestation of the divine love and a
divine manifestation of a perfect humanity was never more
dear and strong. It is upon Him, as the comer-stone. His
atonement, and His teachings that the evangelical Church
builds its system of religion; and while this is the age of the
higher biblical criticism, the most critical and careful study
of the Bible has confirmed no conclusions which shake belief
in its character as the Word of God, or in its authority, or
in its moral and spiritual teachings. It would be mislead-
ing, however, to contend that no change has taken place
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Ixxxiv CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
in the attitude of the evangelical Churches generally toward
the Bible and toward doctrinal preaching. The Bible is
still held in reverence; but the generation of to-day is
much freer in its criticism and interpretation of it than
the generation which is passing off the stage. The human
side of the Book is recognized, and this recognition natu-
rally means that the divine side is not held in such a way
as to preclude error. The revival method has also been
largely abandoned; that is, the method of Finney and
Moody and Hammond. More emphasis appears to be
placed in what has been called cultural or educational evan-
gelism, and upon the Simday-school as an efficient recruit-
ing agency for the Church. Thorough indoctrination of
the child in the principles of the faith is a cardinal doctrine
of the Roman Catholic Church. Evangelical Churches
seem to be appropriating it or adapting it to Protestant
children. It may be truthfully said that revival sermons,
such as were formerly preached in revival campaigns and
at camp-meetings, are becoming somewhat rare in this day.
The sharp lines that used to be drawn between the Church
and the world, between the saint and the sinner, between
the state of grace and the lost condition, between the jojrs
of heaven and the woes of hell, are blurred and indistinct
in most modem preaching, and the Church in general
seems to have less interest in the prodigals or less zeal in
reaching them, and to give more attention to the preven-
tion of prodigals.
5. Co-operation, Federation, and Union. — No de-
velopment of the past quarter of a century has been more
noteworthy than the tendency to co-operation and imion
among the evangelical Churches. This spirit of oneness
has had its most remarkable manifestation in the conduct
of foreign missions. All the societies in the United States
and Canada conducting missions in foreign lands have
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DOMINANT REUGIOUS ELEMENTS. hxzv
united in a conference, held annually in January, in which
questions of common interest are discussed, and imder the
authority of which an ad interim Conmiittee of Reference
and Counsel acts for the societies in appeals to governments
and in other matters affecting the affairs of all. Out of this
have grown co-operative agencies at home, such as the Mis-
sionary Education Movement, which aims specially at the
creation of missionary literature for mission study classes
and the Student Volimteer Movement, which seeks to en-
list an army of trained young men and women for service as
missionaries. In the mission field [itself, co-operation and
union have been going forward in a way simply astonishing.
The mission churches of various societies are uniting to
form large and comprehensive native Churches, as, for ex-
ample, the Methodist Mission Churches of Japan, which
have organized a Methodist Church of Japan; the Pres-
byterian Mission Churches of China, which have formed
with other Presbyterian and Reformed Churches a united
native Church. The same thing has taken place in India.
Moreover, imion in educational, publication, and hospital
work is the order of the day, and comity is ever3rwhere
recognized and intrusion into fields already occupied is
discouraged.
Not much in the way of organic union has been accom-
plished in the United States. Negotiations between bodies
of similar belief and practice are in progress; but no im-
mediate results are probable. The Free Baptists have re-
solved to use the missionary and other general agencies
of the Northern Baptists, and this measure of consolidation
may be followed in time by a merging of the two denomina-
tions. The most influential movement among the evan-
gelical Churches is doubtless that known as the Federal
Council of Churches of Christ. In this body thirty-two of
the leading evangelical Churches are federated for the pur-
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Ixxxvi CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES.
pose of fellowship and action. It is founded on the basis of
unity in Christ, and in purpose and aim it seeks to estab-
lish comity and co-operation and prevent rivalry and waste
in effort and means.
There are also such general bodies as the Alliance of Re-
formed Churches, the Ecumenical Methodist Conference,
the World Baptist Congress, which seek to draw into closer
relations bodies belonging to the same denominational
group or family. Religious controversy over questions of
doctrine and practice is a thing of the past. The denomi-
nations are not now divided into separate camps of a more
or less hostile character, but are coming into closer sympa-
thy and fellowship, making less and less of denominational
differences and more and more of the points of agreement.
6. How THE Church Affects Society. — It is to be
remembered that all the houses of worship have been built
by volxmtary contributions. They have been provided
by private gifts, but are offered to the public for free use.
The government has not given a dollar to provide them,
nor does it appropriate a dollar for their support. And yet
the church is tiie mightiest, most pervasive, most persistent,
and most beneficent force in oiu: civilization. It affects,
directly or indirectly, all human activities and interests.
It is a large property-holder, and influences the market
for real estate.
It is a corporation, and administers large trusts.
It is a public institution, and is therefore the subject of
protective legislation.
It is a capitalist, and gathers and distributes large wealth.
It is an employer, and furnishes means of support to
ministers, organists, singers, janitors, and others.
It is a relief organization, feeding the hungry, clothing
the naked, and assisting the destitute.
It is a imiversity, training children and instructing old
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DOMINANT REUGIOUS ELEMENTS. Izzzvii
and young, by public lectures on religion, morals, industry,
thrift, and the duties of citizenship.
It is a reformatory influence, recovering the vicious, im-
moral, and dangerous elements of society and making them
exemplary citizens.
It is a philanthropic association, sending missionaries to
the remotest coimtries to Christianize savage and degraded
races.
It is organized beneficence, foimding hospitals for the
sick, asylums for orphans, refuges for the homeless, and
schools, colleges, and universities for the ignorant.
It prepares the way for conmierce, and creates and
stimulates industries. Architects, carpenters, painters, and
other artisans are called to build its houses of worship;
mines, quarries, and forests are worked to provide the ma-
terials, and raihroads and ships are employed in transporting
them. It requires tapestries and furnishings, and the looms
that weave them are busy day and night. It buys millions
of Bibles, prayer-books, hymn-books, and papers, and the
presses which supply them never stop.
Who that considers these moral and material aspects of
the Church can deny that it is beneficent in its aims, un-
selfish in its plans, and impartial in the distribution of its
blessings? It is devoted to the temporal and eternal
interests of mankind.
Every comer-stone it lays, it lays for humanity; every
temple it opens, it opens to the world; every altar it estab-
lishes, it establishes for the salvation of souls. Its spires are
fingers pointing heavenward; its ministers are messengers
of good tidings, ambassadors of hope, and angels of mercy.
What is there among men to compare with the Church
in its power to educate, elevate, and civilize mankind?
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EXPLANATIONS OF THE TERMS USED.
!• By "organuations " is meant church societies, or congregations. The
returns nnder this head include chapels, missions, stations, etc, when they
are separate from churches and have separate services.
2. Under the title " church edifices " are given all buildings erected for
divine worship. Chapels under separate roofs are counted as distinct build-
ings. The fractions which appear in this oolunm indicate joint ownership.
A large number of church edifices are owned and occupied by two or more
denominations, and the proportion which each owns is expressed by the frac-
tions X> ^» %» ^^ The tables do not show how many churches are thus
owned. Many fractions have disappeared in the process of addition. If
there were, for example, twenty churches in a State or conference or diocese
or presbytery, in which a particular denomination had a fractional interest of
}i each in eighteen, }4 in another, and X in another, the eighteen halves
would be converted into nine integers in the footing, and the sum of y^ and
Xf^^'fit would be the only fraction that would appear.
3. '* Seating capacity " indicates the number of persons a church edifice is
arranged to seat. The accommodations of halls and schoolhouses are given
separately, and those of private houses are not counted at alL
4* " Value of church property " covers only the estimated value of church
edifices with their chapels, the ground on which they stand, and their furnish-
ings. It does not embrace parsonages, cemeteries, or colleges, or convents,
only the chapek belonging thereto. No deductions are made for church
debts.
5. " CommnnicanU " embraces all who have the privilege of partaking of
the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and of members in denominations like
the Friends, Unitarians, etc The Jewish returns are mostly for heads of
families who are pewholders. Those for Unitarians are larger, in proportion,
than those for the Universalists, because the terms of Unitarian membership
are less restrictive.
6. The statistics given in this volume are for the United States only. No
returns are included for missions or churches in other lands.
Ixxzviii
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RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE
UNITED STATES.
CHAPTER I.
THE ADVENTISTS.
The movement out of which the various Adventist
bodies have come began about the year 1831 with a series
of lectures on the personal coming of Christ, delivered by
William Miller. Mr. Miller, a native of Massachusetts, was
converted and joined the Baptist Church at Low Hamp-
ton, N. Y., in 18 16. He had been a Deist, according to
his own statement A diligent study of the Bible inclined
him to the belief in 181 8 that the millennium was to begin
not before but after the end of the world, and that the
second advent of Christ was near at hand. Further ex-
amination of the Scriptures fully convinced him of the
correctness of this view, and in August, 1831, he began to
lecture on the subject. His study of the Apocalypse and
the Grospels satisfied him that the " only millennium " to
be expected " is the thousand years which are to intervene
between the first resurrection and that of the rest of the
dead " ; that the second coming of Christ is to be a per-
sonal coming ; that the millennium '' must necessarily fol-
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'2'''''j:A£j^76ViS''F0/iC£S OF THE UNITED STATES.
low the personal coming of Christ and the regeneration of
the earth " ; that the prophecies show that " only four uni-
versal monarchies are to precede the setting up of God's
everlasting kingdom," of which three had passed away —
the Babylonian, the Medo-Persian, and the Grecian — and
the fourth, that of Rome, was in the last stage ; that the
periods spoken of in the Book of Daniel of '' 2300 days,"
of the " seven times of Gentile supremacy," and of " 1335
days," were prophetic periods, and, applied chronologic-
ally, led to a termination in 1843, when Christ would
personally descend to the earth and reig^ with the saints
in a new earth a thousand years. In 1833 he published a
pamphlet entitled " Evidences from Scripture and History
of the Second Coming of Christ, about the Year 1843, ^^^
of His Personal Reign of One Thousand Years."
He made many converts to his views, both among min-
isters and laymen of the Baptist, Christian, Methodist, and
other denominations, and the new doctrine was widely
proclaimed. In 1840 a general gathering of friends of the
cause was held in Boston, and an address issued which
stated that while those who participated in the conference
were not in accord in fixing the year of the second advent,
they were unanimously of the opinion that it was " spe-
cially nigh at hand." A number of papers, one of which
was a daily, appeared, bearing such titles as The Midnight
Cryy The Signs of the Times ^ The Trumpet of Alarm, etc.,
and helped gfreatly to spread Mr. Miller's views. When
the year in which the advent was fully expected had
passed, Mr. Miller wrote a letter confessing his " error "
and acknowledging his " disappointment," but expressing
his belief that " the day of the Lord is near, even at the
door." He also attended a conference of Adventists
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THE ADVENTISTS. 3
held in Boston late in May, 1844, and made a similar
statement, admitting that he had been in error in fixing a
definite time. Subsequently he became convinced that
the end would come on or about the 2 2d of October,
1844, and said if Christ did not then appear he should
" feel twice the disappointment " that he had already felt.
Some of those who had joined the movement left it after
the time for the end of the world had passed without a
fulfillment of their expectations ; but many still believed
that the great event was near at hand, and urged men to
live in a constant state of readiness for it.
Various views were developed among the Adventists,
after the second date had passed without result, respecting
the resurrection of the body, the immortality of the soul,
and the state of the dead, and these differences resulted in
course of time in different organizations.
At a general conference of Adventists held in Albany,
N. Y., April 29, 1845, a report was adopted holding to the
visible, personal coming of Christ at an early but indefinite
time, to the resurrection of the dead, both the just and the
unjust, and to the beginning of the millennium after the
resurrection of the saints, denying that there is any prom-
ise of the world's conversion, or that the saints enter upon
their inheritance, or receive their crowns, at death.
Small companies of Adventists at various times after the
failures of 1843 and 1844 set new dates for the second
advent,' and there were gatherings in expectation of the
great event ; but the " time brethren," as they are often
called, have at no time since 1844 formed a large propor-
tion of the Adventists.
Ministers are ordained to the office of elder by the lay-
ing on of hands, upon the recommendation of the churches
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4 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
of which they are members, and after approval by a com-
mittee of eiders. Baptism is administered by immersion.
The Adventists are Congregational in polity, excepting
the Seventh-Day branch, which has a government of a
presbyterial character. Camp-meetings form prominent
and popular annual gatherings among the Adventists. On
these occasions some of their societies hold business ses-
sions.
The following is a complete list of Adventist bodies,
excepting the Adonai Shomo, which is a small commu-
nistic body, and is given elsewhere in that group :
1. Evangelical Adventists, 4. Church of God,
2. Advent Christians, 5. Life and Advent Union,
3. Seventh-Day Adventists, 6. Churchesof God in Christ Jesus.
I. — ^THE EVANGELICAL ADVENTISTS.
Those who could not accept the views of the Advent
Christians as to the mortality of the soul began in 1855
to hold separate meetings, and to be known as Evangelical
Adventists. They believe that the soul is immortal ; that
all the dead will be raised, the saints first and the wicked
last ; that the former will enter upon the millennial reign
with Christ and after the judgment receive as their reward
an eternity of bliss ; that the wicked, who will rise at the
end of the millennial reign, will be sent away into ever-
lasting punishment. They also hold, contrary to the belief
of the Advent Christians, that the dead do not always
sleep, but are in a conscious state. In other respects their
doctrinal views do not differ from those of the second
branch.
They have two annual conferences, besides five congre-
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THE ADVENTISTS.
gations, unattached, and are found in Vermont, Massachu<»
setts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania. Besides the church
edifices reported, this denomination occupies as places of
worship 5 halls, etc., with a seating capacity of 775.
Summary by States.
«.A^o Organi- Church pT^
STATES. -«Jr.«. vj:a..^ ^-a-
Valiwof
Com.
Church
mum-
Property.
cantB.
$4,500
ISO
18,500
509
33,000
325
5,400
163
Sesdag
uuSbna. Edifices. p^S^.
Massachusetts 3 2 250
Pennsylvania 21 16 3,805
Rhode Island 2 2 1,100
Vermont 4 3 700
Total 30 23 5,855 61,400 1,147
Summary by Conferences.
CONTBltBNCBS.
Northern Vermont . 4 3 700 $5,400 163
Pennsylvania 21 16 3,805 18,500 509
Unorganized 5 4 i»35o 37i5oo 475
Total 30 23 5,855 61,400 1,147
2. — ^THE ADVENT CHRISTIANS.
A difference of opinion on the question of the immor-
taKty of the soul led to a division in 1855. Those who be-
lieve that man, both body and soul, is wholly mortal, and
that eternal life is to be had only through personal faith in
Christ as the gift of God, constitute the branch known as
the Advent Christian Church. They hold to the proxi-
mate personal coming of Christ, and that after he comes
the millennium will begin ; they deny the inherent immor-
tality of the soul, insisting that those only shall put on
immortality at Christ's coming who are his true disciples ;
they believe that all the dead are in an unconscious state ;
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6 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
that all shall rise therefrom — ^the just first, to receive the
gift of immortality and to reig^ with Christ ; the unjust
last, to receive sentence of banishment and to be punished
by annihilation.
The Advent Christians have twenty conferences, with
which three fifths of them are connected. The rest are in
congregations which are not associated. The congrega-
tions are somewhat loosely organized, there being no gen-
eral set of rules or particular form of government provided
for them. They occupy as places of worship 281 halls,
schoolhouses, and private houses, with an aggregate seat-
ing capacity of 34,705 for the two former. The seating
capacity of private houses is not given in any of the tables
in this volume.
Summary by States.
STATBS.
Alabama 15
Arkansas 22
California 14
Connecticut 26
Florida 4
Georgia 15
Illinois 21
Indiana 10
Iowa . . 32
Kansas 30
Louisiana 2
Maine 65
Massachusetts 39
Michigan 14
Minnesota 14
Mississippi i
Missouri 7
Nebraska 7
New Hampshire ... 43
New York 17
North Carolina 18
U Church
Edifices.
6
8
21
I
5
H
7
14
3
28X
21
7
9
26
10
IS
Seating
Ca-
pacity.
3,825
1,750
1,525
4,825
200
2,000
3f77S
2,490
3,305
725
250
7,520
5,605
2,025
2,375
400
6,500
2,500
4,750
Value of
Com.
Church
mum-
Property.
cants.
$3,055
688
2,900
671
13,700
555
54,300
i,35«
100
60
2,850
873
32,800
1,019
9,400
455
17,300
1,372
3,200
990
«5«>
51
38,100
2,317
70,500
0,800
28,150
2,611
591
710
30
300
230
1,978
36,500
25,500
8,075
i,04«
1.549
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THE ADVENTISTS.
Summary by States. — Continued,
STAns. .aSonI Edifices. ^ Church
Hoons. iMunccs. p^aty. Property.
Ohio 23 17 5,650 $20,500
Oregon 8 1% 450 1,000
Pennsylvania 16 Z}i 2,426 9,800
Rhode Island 12 10 2,650 27,450
South Carolina .... 10 6% 2,350 2,300
South Dakota 6 i 300 1,000
Tennessee 7 3 1,100 1,900
Texas 9 i 300 2,000
Utah I
Vermont 28 14-,^ 3,485 26,000
Virginia 2 2 350 2,200
Washington 7 i 200 700
West Virginia 15 6 2,100 2,200
Wisconsin 20 12 2,580 11,525
Total 580 294 80,286 $465,605
Summary by Conferences.
Alabama 15 13X 3,825 $3,055
Arkansas 22 6 I9750 2,900
California 14 8 1,525 i3>7oo
Connecticut 26 21 49825 540<^
Dakota 6 i 300 1,000
Georgia 15 5 2,000 2,850
Illinois 21 14 3,775 32,800
Indiana 10 7 2,490 9,400
Iowa 32 14 3,305 I7>3<»
Kansas 30 3 725 3,200
Maine 65 28X 7>520 38,100
Michigan 14 7 2,025 9,800
MinnesoU 14 9 2,375 28, 150
Missouri 7 % 400 300
Nebraska 7
New Hampshire ... 43 26 6,500 36,560
Ohio 23 17 5,650 20,500
Oregon and Wash-
ington 15 2>i 650 1,700
Tennessee 7 3 1,100 1,900
Texas 9 i 300 2,000
Unorganized 185 1071^ 29,246 186,150
Total 580 294 80,286 $465,605
Com-
953
132
469
1!?
163
185
321
8
1,079
165
129
681
613
25,816
688
671
1,358
163
873
1,019
455
1,272
990
2,317
591
710
230
1,978
953
261
185
321
10,125
25,816
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8 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
3. — THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS.
These form a branch of the general movement of
1840-44. They differ from other Adventists in observing
the seventh day of the week as the Sabbath, in interpreta-
tion of the prophetic periods, and in form of organization.
They believe that the prophetic period of 2300 days re-
ferred to in the Book of Daniel closed in 1844; but that
the coming of Christ was not to be looked for then, but is
to occur in the indefinite future. They hold that Christ,
in 1844, at the termination of the 2300 days, entered as
priest upon the work of cleansing the heavenly sanctuary,
or temple, from " the presence of our sins." This period,
which is to be brief, is to close with the second coming,
the time of which cannot be forecast. The observance of
the seventh day began with a congregation of Adventists
in New Hampshire in 1844. The doctrine respecting the
" cleansing of the sanctuary " has helped to establish and
confirm this observance. They believe that the second
advent is to precede, not follow, the millennium, that the
state of the dead is one of unconsciousness, and that im-
mersion is the proper form of baptism. They practice the
ceremony of feet-washing when the Lord's Supper is ad-
ministered.
Their congregations are organized into conferences, of
which there are twenty-six, besides five missions. There
is also a general conference, which meets annually, com-
posed of delegates from the various conferences. Ordained
ministers are not pastors, but traveling evangelists. The
local churches are served by local officers who need not be
ordained ministers. Members are expected to contribute
a tenth of their income to the church.
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THE ADVENTISTS. 9
There are 995 organizations with 418 edifices, valued at
$644,675, and 28,891 communicants. The average seat-
ing capacity of the edifices is 225, and their average value
$1542. The headquarters of the Seventh- Day Adventists
are at Battle Creek, Michigan, and about a sixth of their
communicants are in that State. Their congregations,
however, are found in nearly all the States and Territories.
They occupy as places of worship 555 halls, etc., with a
seating capacity of 27,865.
SUMBCARY BY STATES AND TlRRITORIES.
Church
STATBI.
Arizona i
Arkansas 15
California 34
Colorado 13
Connecticut 3
Delaware > 2
District of Columbia i
Florida 6
Georgia 4
Idaho 5
Illinois 24
Indiana C5
Iowa 85
Kansas 67
Kentucky 6
Louisiana 5
Maine 25
Maryland i
Massachusetts 15
Michigan 134
Minnesota 71
Missouri ... 24
Montana 2
Nebraska 38
Nevada 4
New Hampshire ... 4
New Jersey 5
New York 42
North Carolina .... 5
3
24
2
I
I
2
16
34A
48
21
2
63
31
7
I
9
2
I
3
13
3
Seadng
Value of
CaT^
Church
i»city.
Property.
8(0
$1,000
8,328
157,150
650
4,650
150
2,000
ISO
800
40
400
4,000
3,550
52,400
7,900
32,010
11,249
58,925
4,165
400
''•^°
650
300
1,550
7,400
600
5,900
15,875
104,075
5,315
27,550
1,500
6,350
200
1,250
1,025
13,500
300
2,025
200
500
425
1,000
3,000
23,300
400
500
Com-
12
363
2,226
414
26
96
81
148
871
1,193
2,197
116
459
23
490
4,715
2,313
815
829
56
112
1,176
83
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lO REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States and Territories.— CMf/msM/.
pAcity. iTopeiiy. caiiK
North Dakota 4 95
O^iio 55 31^ 5,575 $25,45© 1,189
Oregon 26 8 1,800 1 1,300 683
Pennsylvania 36 Jo}i 2,350 16,300 884
Rhode Island 6 4 500 1,025 '^
South Dakota 30 9 2,350 7)400 884
Tennessee 10 sH i,35o 2,425 211
Texas 15 i 800 800 452
Utah I 29
Vermont 26 4 1, 150 AfS<^ 520
Virginia 6 2 600 1,800 1 14
Washington 21 10 1,925 20,050 560
West Virginia 5 3 450 2,500 136
Wisconsin 58 43 7,045 28,850 1,892
Total 995 418 94,627 $644,675 28,991
Summary by Conferences and Missions.
Arkansas 15 3 850 $1,000 363
Atlantic 10 4 575 1,800 309
California 40 26 8,628 1 59^1 75 2,323
Colorado 13 2 650 4,650 414
Illinois 24 16 3,550 52,400 871
Indiana 55 34A 7,9«> 32,010 1,193
Iowa 85 48 1 1»249 58,925 2,197
Kansas 67 21 4,165 i5>95o iy990
Maine 25 4^ 1,550 7,400 459
Michigan 134 63 15,875 104,075 4,715
Minnesota 75 31 5,215 27,550 2,408
Missouri 24 7 1,500 6,350 815
Nebraska 38 9 1,025 12,500 829
New England 28 8 1,450 9,425 801
New York 31 10 2,400 22,800 883
North Pacific 35 12 2,425 20,300 879
Ohio 55 2i}i 5,575 25,450 1,189
Pennsylvania 46 13^^ 2,950 16,800 I9O98
South Dakota 30 9 2,350 7)400 884
Tennessee River ... 11 sH i,55o 2,425 220
Texas 15 i 800 800 452
Upper Columbia. .. 17 8 1,700 15,050 512
Vermont 26 4 1,150 4,500 526
Virginia 6 2 600 1,800 1 14
West Virginia 5 3 450 2,500 136
Wisconsin 58 43 7,045 28,850 1,892
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THE ADVENTISTS. II
Summary by Conferences and Missions.— r<Mf/kVitf^(/.
■TATis. ladoM. Edifices. . Church muiu-
M»««w. <MuiK«. pi«iy. Property. cants.
MISSIONS.
Cumberland 5 i 200 $800 71
Louisiana 5 3 650 200 1 16
Montana 2 i 200 i»25o 49
North Carolina 5 3 400 500 83
South Atlantic 10 40 200
Total 995 418 94,627 $644,675 28,991
4. — ^THE CHURCH OF GOD.
The Church of God is a branch of the Seventh-Day
Adventists. A division occurred among the latter in the
years 1864-66. This division resulted in the organization
of the Church of God. The chief cause of th6 division
was, it is stated, the claim of the Seventh- Day Adventists
that Mrs. Ellen G. White was inspired and that her visions
should be accepted as inspired. There are differences
between the two bodies on the subject of health-reform —
which is made prominent by the parent body — abstinence
from swine's flesh, tea, and coffee — ^which the latter recom-
mends— and with relation to prophecy.
The Church of God has three annual conferences, also a
general conference representing the whole denomination.
The number of members is 647. There are 23 halls, etc.,
with a seating capacity of 1445.
Summary by States.
rw<»«,: rk,.«r.h Seating Value of Com-
WATBS. 2SS^ S^SSL Ca- Chureh muni-
•atioiia. Edifices. ^^^ Property. cants.
Indiana 2 20
Kansas i 20
Michigan 15 $600 248
Missouri 11 i 200 800 359
Total 29 I 200 $1,400 647
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12 aEUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Conferences.
Oiniii. Chuich ^^^ yS~? ^^
psclty. nopeity. ouili.
Kansas & Nebraska i 20
Michigw 17 $600 268
Missouri II I 200 800 359
Total 29 I 200 $1,400 647
5. — ^THE LIFE AND ADVENT UNION.
This branch differs from the Evangelical and Advent
Christian bodies respecting the doctrine of the resurrec-
tion of the wicked dead. Both the latter believe that the
wicked dead will rise at the end of the millennial reign
and be sentenced to everlasting punishment which, accord-
ing to the Evangelical Adventists, will be everlasting suf-
fering, and according to the Advent Christians, everlasting
destruction. The Life and Advent Union holds that they
will not rise at all ; that when they die they die never to
wake, but are doomed to sleep eternal. This belief had
adherents as early as 1844. The branch, however, dates
from 1864. It was organized in Wilbraham, Mass.
It has 28 organizations, fourteen of which are in New
England. It has about 1000 members. There are 19
halls, etc., with a seating capacity of 1830.
Summary by States.
OrganU Chiach Satiog ]^ueof Coni-
— .JEJir eSsSSm! Car Church mum-
^*"**** pacity. Property.-
Connecticut 6 i 100 $3,040 243
Delaware i 75
Iowa I 20
Maine 7 3 1,200 1,250 188
Massachusetts 5 2 500 2,000 177
New Jersey i i 150 900 56
New York 2 i 300 9i5oo 140
Rhode Island i 100 75
Virginia 4 44
Total 28 8 2,250 $16,790 1,018
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THE ADVENTISTS.
n
6. — ^THE CHURCHES OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS.
The members of this branch are popularly known as
Age-to-Come Adventists. They believe that God is
pledged, through the mouth of the prophets, to the final
restitution of all thing^s, and expect to see the kingdom of
God established on earth, with Christ as King of Idngs, the
saints being associated with him in the government of the
world. They believe that Israel will be restored to rule in
Jerusalem; that the dead will have a literal resurrection,
the righteous to receive the blessings of immortality and
the wicked to be destroyed ; and that eternal life comes
only through Christ They hold that acceptance of the
gospel, repentance, immersion in the name of Christ for
the remission of sins, are conditions of forgiveness of sins,
and that a holy life is essential to salvation.
They have churches in twenty-three States. They are
associated in district conferences, and there is also a gen-
eral conference. There are 6i halls, etc., with a seating
capacity of 4825.
Summary by States.
Oi^pui-
Arkansas .
California .
Delaware .
Florida . . .
Illinois.. ..
3
3
I
I
10
Indiana 19
4
9
I
3
7
I
3
9
2
I
Iowa
Kansas
Louisiana . .
Maryland . .
Michigan ..
Mississippi .
Missouri . . .
Nebraska . .
New Jersey.
New York .
Chuxch
Edifices.
4
9
I
I
I
2
Car
pittty.
400
Value of
Church
Property.
$500
Com.
700
3,050
200
'2,700
9,900
2,000
200
400
"180
375
200
275
3,800
100
200
500
4DO
16
10
621
121
205
10
47
170
9
49
205
31
48
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14 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States. — Continued.
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania . .
South Dakota .
Washington . . .
West Virginia .
Wisconsin
Total.
Oi^pui-
Church
5
I
Seating
pacity.
1,175
300
Value oi
Church
Piopar^.
$21,500
I|O0O
3,000
Com-
89
90
29
99
36
95 30 7,530 $46,075 2,872
The following table represents the six branches of
Adventists :
Summary of All Adventists.
STATES. ^^'V^ Chureh S^« Vdueof Cj^
STATES. .ains. Edifices. ^" ^Church mum.
paaty. riopeiiy. cants.
Alabama 15 13 3,825 $3,055 688
Arizona i 12
Arkansas 40 12 3,000 4,400 1,093
California 51 32 9,853 170,850 2,822
Colorado 13 2 650 4,650 414
Connecticut 35 23 5,075 59,340 1,692
Delaware 4 i 150 800 1 17
District of Columbia i
Florida 11 i 200 100 iS
Georgia 19 5 2,000 2,890 954
Idaho 5 2 400 4,000 148
Illinois 55 34 8,025 87,900 2,431
Indiana 86 51 13,440 51,310 2,289
Iowa 122 03 14,754 78,425 3,610
Kansas 107 25 5,090 19,^50 3,205
Kentucky 6 i 400 800 80
Louisiana 8 4 900 700 177
Maine 97 36 10,270 46,750 2,964
Maryland 3 i 180 275 70
Massachusetts 62 27 6,955 82,900 3,428
Michigan 170 72 18,275 118,275 5,7^4
Minnesota 85 40 7,59o 55,7oo 3,023
Mississippi 2 }i 200 100 39
Missouri 45 8 2,100 7,450 1,453
Montana 2 i 200 1,250 49
Nebraska 54 10 1,225 i3iOOO 1,132
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THE ADVENTISTS.
15
SUMBCAKY OF All Adventists. — Cmtmued,
Oifiai-
Nevada 4
New Hampshire ... 47
New Jersey 8
New York 62
North Carolina. 23
North Dakota 4
Ohio 83
Oregon 40
Pennsylvania 74
Rhode Island 21
South Carolina 10
South Dakota 38
Tennessee 17
Texas 24
Utah 2
Vermont 58
Virginia 12
Washington 31
West Virginia 21
Wisconsin 79
Total 1,757
"^■(■wl
k Seating
Value of
Com-
MiApm
\ qT*
Chuicb
muni.
■• i-dty.
Property.
canta.
2
300
$2,025
56
27
6,700
37,000
2,090
4
24
S,8oo
1,900
58,700
172
2,412
18
51I50
«,575
1,632
2,461
44
12,400
67,450
II
2,800
13,300
47,800
904
36
8,881
1,952
16
4,250
61,575
1,458
7
2,350
2,300
811
10
2,650
8,400
1,076
8
2,450
4,325
2,800
396
2
1,100
m
V
22
5,335
35,900
1,768
4
950
4,000
323
II
2,125
20,750
9
2,550
4,700
847
55
9,625
40,375
2,541
774 190,748 $1,236,345 60^1
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CHAPTER II.
THE BAPTISTS.
There are numerous bodies of Christians who are called
Baptists. While they differ on other points they all agree
on these: that (i) the only proper subjects of Christian
baptism are those who have been converted and profess
(j^ersonal faith in Christ ; and that (2) the only Scriptural
baptism is immersion. They therefore reject infant bap-
tism as invalid, and sprinkling or pouring as unscriptural.
There are certain denominations which accept these princi-
ples in whole or in part — the Disciples of Christ, the Chris-
tians, the Mennonites, and others — ^but they are not Bap-
tists in name, and are not counted as such in any strict
classification. The Disciples of Christ accept the two
principles above stated, but also hold that it is only through
baptism that "divine assurance of remission of sins and
acceptance with God " is received. The Christians gener-
ally believe in immersion for believers, but do not refuse
to tolerate pouring or sprinkling; while the Mennonites
baptize usually by pouring.
The Baptists appear in history as early as the first quar-
ter of the sixteenth century. Beginning in Switzerland in
1523, they soon took root in Germany, Holland, and other
countries on the Continent, whence they found their way
to England, driven thence by the persecution which their
rejection of infant baptism occasioned. Persons who had
been baptized in infancy, on professing conversion and
16
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THE BAPTISTS. 1 7
applying for admission to Baptist churches were baptized
again. Hence the persecuted people were often called
Anabaptists. The first Baptist churches in England were
organized before the middle of the seventeenth century.
The American Baptists did not spring historically from the
English Baptists. They trace their origin to Roger Will-
iams, a minister of the Church of England, who came over
to Massachusetts, whence he was driven because he did
not conform to Congregationalism, which was the estab-
lished religion of that province. He became the founder
of the colony of Rhode Island, which, by the charter
secured by him in 1644, was declared free to all forms of
religion. Five years previously Mr. Williams had become
a convert to Baptist principles, and had been immersed by
one of the members of his Church, Ezekiel Holliman,
whom he in turn immersed, with ten others. Of these
he organized a Baptist church in Providence. Of course
there were Baptists among the immigrants who came across
the sea in the seventeenth century and later, and Baptist
churches became numerous in New England, New York,
Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, and other States before the
dose of the eighteenth century.
The Baptists are variously divided. The Regular Bap-
tists, who constitute the great majority in this country,
exist in three bodies. Northern, Southern, and Colored.
They are Calvinistic in doctrine. The Freewill Baptists,
existing in two bodies, together with the General Baptists
and others, are Arminian in doctrine. The Primitive or
Old-School Baptists, of which there are two or three
branches, are strongly Calvinistic. They also oppose Sun-
day-schools, missionary societies, and other '' human insti-
tutions.''
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1 8 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Baptist churches are defined as "bodies of baptized
believers, witii pastors and deacons, covenanted together
for religious worship and religious work." All Baptist
denominations are Congregational in polity, with, perhaps,
the exception of the Original Freewill Baptists. Each
church manages its own affairs. There are associations
and similar organizations, composed of ministers and repre-
sentatives of the churches, but they have no ecclesiastical
power. There are also State conventions, variously consti-
tuted of representatives of associations, of other organiza-
tions, and of churches. Associations and conventions are
chiefly concerned with the general interests of the churches,
such as missions, Sunday-schools, education, etc. Men
are ordained to the pastorate by councils consisting of min-
isters and representatives of neighboring churches. Coun-
cils also " recognize " new churches, and advise churches
whenever requested so to do in cases of difficulty. Dea-
cons are officers of the church, charged with the care of
the poor, the visitation of the sick, and similar duties.
The following is a complete list of the various Baptist
bodies :
1. Regular (North), 8. General,
2. Regular (South), 9. Separate,
3. Regular (Colored), 10. United,
4. Six Principle, ii. Baptist Church of Christ,
5. Seventh-Day, 12. Primitive,
6. Freewill, 13. Old Two-Seed-in-the- Spirit
7. Original Freewill, Predestinarian.
THE REGULAR BAPTISTS.
There are three bodies of Regular Baptists, the North-
em, Southern, and Colored. They are not separate by
virtue of doctrinal or ecclesiastical differences ; but each,
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THE BAPTISTS. 1 9
nevertheless, has its own associations, State conventions,
and general missionary and other organizations.
The question of slavery was the cause of the separation
between the Baptists of the Northern and the Baptists of
the Southern States. In 1844 the controversy, which had
been going on for some time, entered upon the decisive
stage. The Alabama State convention, representing the
Baptists of that State, adopted in that year a series of
resolutions demanding '' from the proper authorities in aU
these bodies to whose funds we have contributed . . .
the distinct, explicit avowal that slaveholders are eligible
and entitled equally with non-slaveholders to all the priv-
ileges and immunities of their several unions, and espe-
cially to receive any agency or mission or other appointment
which may run with the scope of their operations or duties."
The Board of Foreign Missions, which had its headquarters
in Boston, and received contributions from the whole
denomination, made answer to the demand of the Alabama
convention, saying : " If any one should offer himself as a
missionary, having slaves and insisting on retaining them
as his property, we could not appoint him. One thing is
certain, we can never be a party to any arrangement which
would imply approbation of slavery." The board of the
Home Mission Society made a similar declaration of policy,
and division took place in 1845.
The Regular Baptists accept the Bible as the only rule
of faith and practice. To its authority all appeals are
made. There are, however, two general confessions of
faith, which have weight among them as expressions of
their belief. The older one, known as the Philadelphia
Confession, first appeared in London in the seventeenth
century ; the other, called the New Hampshire Confession,
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20 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
was adopted by the New Hampshire State convention in
1833. The Philadelphia Confession follows closely the
Westminster (Presbyterian) Confession of Faith, with such
changes and additions as were required to set forth the
Baptist views as to the proper subjects and mode of bap-
tism and related questions, and as to church government.
The New Hampshire Confession was formulated to express
the views of the Calvinistic Baptists in their controversy
with the Freewill Baptists, who were of the Arminian
type of theology. It is regarded as fairly representing the
doctrinal opinions of Northern Baptists, while the Philadel-
phia Confession is more acceptable, perhaps, to Southern
Baptists. It is the common practice of Southern associa-
tions to print articles of faith in their annual minutes. In
a few instances the whole New Hampshire Confession
thus appears ; in other cases it is shortened by the omis-
sion of two or more articles. The following articles taken
from it express the views of all Regular Baptists :
" We believe that a visible church of Christ is a Congre-
gation of baptized believers associated by covenant in the
faith and fellowship of the gospel, observing the ordinances
of Christ, governed by his laws, and exercising the gifts,
rights, and privileges invested in them by his word ; that
its only scriptural officers are bishops or pastors and dea-
cons, whose qualifications, claims, and duties are defined in
the epistles to Timothy and Titus.
"We believe that Christian baptism is immersion in
water of a believer, into the name of the Father and Son
and Holy Ghost, to show forth, in a solemn and beautiful
emblem, our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Sav-
iour, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to
a new life; that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a
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THE BAPTISTS. 21
church relation and to the Lord's Supper, in which the
members of the church, by the sacred use of bread and
wine, are to commemorate together the dying love of
Christ, preceded always by solemn self-examination."
The Southern associations generally set forth brief arti-
cles of faith, varying somewhat in phraseology, but declar-
ing the same doctrines. One of these compendiums con-
sists of twelve articles. It appears more often than any
other form in the minutes of the various associations, some-
times with two or more articles omitted, sometimes with a
distinct one added. Articles i and 2 state the doctrine of
the Trinity, and accept the Scriptures of the Old and New
Testament as the word of God and only " rule of faith and
practice " ; Article 3 declares that " God chose his people
in Christ Jesus before the foundation of the world " and
" predestinated them unto the adoption of children " ; Arti-
cle 4, that man is a sinner and consequently in a lost con-
dition; Article 5, that he has no power of his own free will
and ability to recover himself from his fallen state ; Article
6, that sinners are " justified in the sight of God only by
the righteousness of Jesus Christ " ; Article 7, that the elect
are " called, regenerated, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit
through the Gospel " ; Article 8, that nothing can separate
true believers from the love of God, *' and that they shall
be kept by the power of God through faith unto salva-
tion " ; Article 9, that baptism and the Lord's Supper are
ordinances of Christ, and that believers are the only sub-
jects of them, and immersion is the only baptism ; Article
10, that the dead shall rise, and there shall be a final judg-
ment; Article 1 1, that the " punishment of the wicked will
be everlasting and the joys of the righteous eternal " ; Arti-
cle 12, that no minister has the right to administer the
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22 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
ordinances unless he is called of God, has " come under the
imposition of hands by a presbytery/' and is " in fellowship
with the church of which he is a member/' This summary
fairly represents the various forms of confession in use.
Some of the colored associations insert as an additional
article the doctrine that " pedobaptism by immersion is not
valid even when the administrator himself has been im-
mersed." One colored association in Louisiana has an
abstract of faith which declares that the " blessings of sal-
vation are free to all " ; that election by God is consistent
with man's free agency; and that only such as are real
believers persevere to the end. These are modified state-
ments of the doctrines of election, free agency, and final
perseverance as usually held by Baptist associations in the
South. A few associations enjoin the washing of the
saints' feet as a reUgious rite.
I. — ^THE REGULAR BAPTISTS (NORTH).
The Baptist churches in the Northern States, after the
division of 1845, continued to support, on an antislavery
basis, the Home Mission Society and the Baptist Union,
the latter taking the place of the Board of Foreign Mis-
sions. In 1879 the question of the organic union of North-
em and Southern Baptists came up, but nothing was
accomplished. The Southern Baptist convention of that
year, in appointing five delegates to the anniversaries of
the Northern Baptist societies, expressed its fraternal re-
gard; but insisted on ''the wisdom and policy of pre-
serving our separate organizations." On the part of the
Northern Baptists a leading denominational journal said
they were generally agreed that it would be " wholly unad-
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THE BAPTISTS. 23
visable to try to bring about organic union between the
Baptists of the North and South."
The Northern Baptists have churches in all the States
north of the Virginias, Kentucky, Missouri, and Texas, in-
cluding the District of Columbia. Some churches on the
border divide their contributions for the general benevo-
lences between the Northern and Southern Baptist bodies,
and one educational society represents both.
There are 414 associations of Northern Baptists, who are
strongest in the States of New York (129,711), Illinois
(95*237), and Pennsylvania (83, 122). In three other States
they have over 50,000 communicants each : Massachusetts,
S9i83o; Ohio, 57,685 ; and Indiana, 54,080. There are in
all 800,450 communicants, belonging to 7907 organiza-
tions, with 7070 edifices, valued at $49,530,504. The
average value of the edifices is $7006, and the average
seating capacity 308; 1165 halls, etc, with a seating
capacity of 109,350, are also occupied.
There is a considerable number of German Baptist
churches, most of which are in the Northern and Western
States. The earliest of them were organized in Pennsyl-
vania in 1840 and 1841. These German Baptists are not
to be confounded with the Dunkards, who are often called
German Baptists. Their churches are reported in con-
nection with the various associations within whose bounds
they are situated, but they also have conferences of their
own. There are five of these conferences, the Eastern,
Central, Southwestern, Northwestern, and Texas, and
they meet annually. There is also a general conference
in which they are all represented. This conference meets
once in three years. There are in all upward of 200
German churches with about 17,000 members. There
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24 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
are also some 200 Swedish churches with more than
12,000 members, a few Danish churches, and a number
of Welsh churches.
Summary by States.
P*»3r* Piopeity.
Arixona 6 4 875 $11,200 197
California 163 121 341O25 744.9360 1 11204.
Colorado 54 40 10,935 44.0,000 4,944
Connecticut 135 138 47^280 1,650,050 22,372
Delaware 13 16 4,782 165,300 1,823
District of Columbia 2 2 1,900 65,000 3,000
Idaho 20 10 2,180 26, 100 656
Illinois 996 911 282,463 3,495,010 95,257
Indiana 552 515 164,055 1,313,422 54>o8o
Iowa 417 340 89,231 1, 162,640 30,901
Kansas 545 339 87,01 5 893,233 32, 172
Maine 237 223 61,669 921,550 18,917
Massachusetts 318 346 142,589 6, 107,830 59,830
Michigan 395 353 101,535 1,858,419 34,145
Minnesota 194 161 40,575 1,107,839 14,608
Montana 14 11 2,950 89,000 683
Nebraska 230 164 36,590 514,710 11,917
Nevada i i 500 7,ooo 63
New Hampshire ... 85 97 28,310 585,050 8,768
New Jersey 224 252 94,575 2,957,628 38,757
New Mexico 15 4 1,250 22,000 355
New York 875 898 309,581 12,938,913 129,711
North Dakota 54 33 7,675 90,300 2,298
Ohio 616 585 168,835 2,543,888 57,685
Oregon 108 69 I7,740 3i7»325 5>3o6
Pennsylvania 634 642 219,589 5,984,322 83,122-
Rhode Island 68 73 28,693 1,151,960 12,055
South Dakota 83 54 11,311 227,175 3,856
Utah 4 3 700 65,000 327
Vennont 100 103 28,124 584,500 8,933
Washington 90 55 12,540 241,760 3,870
West Virginia 458 3^4 94><H5 381,200 34,154
Wisconsin 192 180 46,131 838,945 I4>i53
Wyoming 9 3 525 27,875 262
Total 7,907 7,070 2, 180,773 $49>530i5<H 800,450
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THE BAPTISTS. 2$
2. — ^THE REGULAR BAPTISTS (SOUTH).
This is the more numerous branch of white Baptists.
After the division of 1845 the Southern churches organized
the Southern Baptist convention, which meets annually, to
consider, promote, and direct the general interests of the
denomination, such as home and foreign missions and
Sunday-schools. It is composed of delegates from asso-
ciations and other organizations, and from churchea It
has no ecclesiastical authority whatever. It represents
churches in sixteen States, including Kansas, which has
a few churches belonging to an association in Missouri,
the District of Columbia, the Indian Territory, and Okla-
homa
The oldest Baptist churches and associations are in the
North. Of the seventy-seven churches reported for 1770
only seven were in the South ; these were in Delaware, the
Carolinas, and Virg^ia In the next decade churches rose
in Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky. There were none,
however, in Missouri, Mississippi, and Louisiana until after
the present century opened, and none in Arkansas until a
considerably later date. The first association in the South
was that of South Carolina, organized in 1 75 1 ; those of
Sandy Creek and Kehukee, in North Carolina, were organ-
ized in 1758 and 1765 respectively; the Ketocton, in Vir-
ginia, in 1766; and the Holston, in Tennessee, in 1786.
Virginia was in 1784 the Baptist stronghold, having more
than forty-two per cent, of all the members. It maintained
the lead for nearly half a century, then lost it, and regained
it from New York in 1850, and held it until Georgia took
it some fifteen or twenty years later.
Kentucky, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Missouri, and
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26 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
Tennessee are the g^eat Baptist States of the South. They
contain nearly two thirds of the total of members. Ken-
tucky has 153,668; North Carolina, 153,648; Georgia, 137,-
860; Texas, 129,734; Missouri, 121,985; and Tennessee,
106,632 — making a total of 803,527 in these six States.
Alabama reports 98,185; Virginia, 92,693; Mississippi,
82,315 ; and South Carolina, 76,216. In all, the Southern
Baptists number 1,280,066. These members are divided
among 16,238 organizations, which report 13,502 edifices,
with a seating capacity of 4,349,407, and an aggregate
value of $18,196,637. Besides the edifices, 2641 halls,
etc., with a seating capacity of 326,000, are used as places
of worship.
Southern Baptists seem to be very thoroughly distrib-
uted over the States they occupy. They have organi-
zations in all the counties in the State of Alabama (66).
In the State of Arkansas they have organizations in 74
counties out of 75 ; in South Carolina, in 34 out of 35 ;
in Florida, in 44 out of 45; in Georgia, in 135 out of
137; in Kentucky, in in out of 119; in Louisiana, in 38
out of 59 ; in Mississippi, in 74 out of 75 ; in Missouri, in
114 out of 115; in North Carolina, in 95 out of 96; in
Tennessee, in 92 out of 96; in Texas, in 185 out of 244;
in Virginia, in 96 out of 100.
There are 658 associations, the largest of which is the
Dover, of Virginia, having 11,711 members. The associ-
ations are given alphabetically under each State, but are
not footed by States, because many of them cross State
lines.
The average seating capacity of edifices is 322, and the
average value $1348.
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THE BAPTISTS. 27
SUBIM ARY BY STATES.
«.*T«L OV»i- Chuich Sc^ Vdueof Coou
STATis. raSftw P.<<i<Mwt ^^•" tinurcli mum-
saao AouM^. padty. Property. casts.
Alabama 1,495 i>373 407,ii9 $1,170,219 98,185
Arkansas 1,107 732 220,390 408,885 58,364
Dist. of Columbia 16 16 6,000 466,000 3,621
Florida 403 334 73>435 208,933 18,747
Georgia 1,647 1,602 519,050 11848,675 137,860
Indian Territory 181 no 18,485 35,765 9, 147
Kansas 6 4 700 2,100 273
Kentucky 1,441 1,277 426,720 2,364,238 153,668
Louisiana 482 438 108,730 333,977 27,736
Maryland 47 48 21,420 651,050 8,017
Mississippi 1,125 1,071 319,370 689,451 82,315
Missouri 1,630 1,265 390,775 2,386,898 121,985
North Carolina . 1,480 1,472 603,938 1,662,405 153,648
Oklahoma 8 216
South Carolina . 759 748 234,080 894,724 76,216
Tennessee 1,287 1,159 39^1715 1,802,015 106,632
Texas 2,318 1,081 333^348 1,384,035 "9,734
Virginia 787 762 266,982 1,859,292 92,693
West Virginia . . 13 10 3,150 27,975 1,009
Total 16,238 13,502 4,349,407 $18,196,637 1,280,066
3. — ^THE REGULAR BAPTISTS (COLORED).
The Colored Baptists of the South constitute the most
numerous body of Regular Baptists. Not all Colored Bap-
tists are embraced in this division ; only those who have
separate churches, associations, and State conventions.
There are many Colored Baptists in Northern States, who
are mostly counted as members of churches belonging to
white associations. None of them are included in the fol-
lowing tables.
The first State convention of Colored Baptists was organ-
ized in North Carolina in 1866; the second in Alabama
and the third in Virginia in 1867 ; the fourth in Arkansas
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28 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
in 1868; and the fifth in Kentucky in 1869. There are
colored conventions in fifteen States.
In addition to these organizations the Colored Baptists
of the United States have others more general in character :
the American National Convention, the purpose of which
is '' to consider the moral, intellectual, and religious growth
of the denomination," to deliberate upon questions of gen-
eral concern, and to devise methods to bring the churches
and members of the race closer together ; the Consolidated
American Missionary Convention ; the General Association
of the Western States and Territories ; the Foreign Mission
Convention of the United States, and the New England
Missionary Convention. All except the first are missionary
in their purpose.
The American National Convention, in its annual session
in 1890, adopted a resolution recommending that the prac-
tice of receiving into membership persons immersed in
Pedobaptist churches be discontinued, on the ground that
Pedobaptist organizations are not churches, and therefore
have no power to administer baptism. The exchange of
pulpits with Pedobaptists was also condemned as " incon-
sistent and erroneous."
It was extremely difficult to obtain returns of a third or
more of the Colored Baptist associations in the South. No
response was made, in many instances, to repeated requests
to clerks or moderators for statistics. Some of their State
missionaries, professors, and others were induced to under-
take the work of gathering the returns of such associations
for the eleventh census, and after more than a year and a
half of earnest endeavor, all possible resources being ex-
hausted in the effort, full reports were secured from alL
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THE BAPTISTS. 29
Several correspondents reported to the Census Office that
radical changes in colored associations are frequent A
few discontented churches often withdraw and form a new
association, which continues for a year or two, and then is
absorbed by another association. The boundaries of these
bodies change frequently, and sometimes they are also
quite irregular, embracing not contiguous territory, but
counties or portions of counties widely separated.
The Colored Baptists are represented in fifteen States,
all in the South, or on the border, and in the District of
Columbia. In Virginia and Georgia they are very nu-
merous, having in the latter 200,516, and in the former
199,871 communicants. In Alabama they have 142,437;
in North Carolina, 134,445; in Mississippi, 136,647; in
South Carolina, 125,572; and in Texas, 111,138 members.
The aggregate is 1,348,989 members, who are embraced in
12,533 organizations, with 1 1,987 church edifices, valued at
$9,038,549. There are 416 associations, of which 66 are
in Alabama, 63 in Georgia, 49 in Mississippi, 40 in North
Carolina, and 23 in Virginia. As associations generally
conform to county lines, the excess of associations in
Georgia and Alabama over Virginia is probably chiefly due
to the greater number of counties.
The average seating capacity of the church edifices is
287, and their average value $754. There are 663 halls,
etc, with a seating capacity of 45,520.
While some of the Colored Baptist churches are very
large, particularly in the cities, there are many weak con-
gregations in the rural districts which, as is the case among
the smaller white churches, do not have regular Sunday
services oftener than once or twice a month.
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30 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
/v«i«L rh.M.ii Seating Value of Com-
•T^TM- nS^ 3S^ Ca. Church muni.
zwkhu. caukcs. padty. Property. cants.
Alabama 1,374 1,341 376,839 $795*384 142,437
Arkansas 923 870 243,395 585>947 63,786
Dist of Columbia 43 33 18,600 383,150 12,717
Florida 329 295 61,588 137,578 20,828
Georgia 1,818 1,800 544,546 1,045,310 200,516
Kentucky 378 359 109,030 406,949 50,245
Louisiana 865 861 191,041 609,890 68,008
Maryland ...... 38 34 12,389 150,475 7,75o
Mississippi 1,385 1,333 37i,ii5 682,541 136,647
Missouri 234 212 60,015 400,518 18,613
North Carolina . 1,173 1,164 362,946 705,512 134,445
South Carolina . 860 836 275,529 699,961 125,572
Tennessee 569 534 159,140 5^9,923 52,183
Texas 1,464 1,288 282,590 664,286 111,138
Virginia 1,001 977 358,032 1,192,035 199,871
West Virginia . . 79 50 14,175 59*090 4,233
Total 12,533 11,987 3,440,970 $9,038,549 1*348,989
4. — GENERAL SIX-PRINCIPLE BAPTISTS.
This small body of less than 1000 members is repre-
sented only in three States. Its first church was organized
in 1670 in Rhode Island. The creed is formed from the
first and second verses of Chapter VI. of the Epistle to the
Hebrews, and consists of six principles: i. Repentance
from dead works ; 2. Faith toward God ; 3. The doctrine
of baptism; 4. The laying on of hands; 5. Resurrection
of the dead; 6. Eternal judgment. Hence they derive
their name.
They have two yearly meetings : one in Pennsylvania,
and one in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. There are
18 organizations, 12 of which are in Rhode Island. They
occupy 4 halls, with a seating capacity of 400.
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THE BAPTISTS.
3
Summary by States.
STATES.
Omni- Church
nSo^ Edifices.
siting
p«aty.
Value or
Church
Property.
Com.
mum-
cants.
Massachusetts . .
Pennsylvania . . .
Rhode Island...
I
5 3
12 II
i8 14
i,3a>
2,300
$3»8oo
15,700
$19,500
715
Total
3,600
937
31
5. — ^THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS.
Baptists who observed the seventh day of the week as
the Sabbath appeared in England as early as the latter part
of the sixteenth century, and were known as Sabbatarian
Baptists, until the general conference of the body in the
United States changed the name in 18 18. The first Sev-
enth-Day Baptist church in this country wsis organized in
Newport, R. I., in 1671, by Stephen Mumford, an English
Sabbatarian Baptist From this Rhode Island church the
denomination has gradually developed in the United States.
As early as 1 700 Philadelphia became a second center of Sev-
enth-Day Baptists, and soon after Piscata way , N. J., a third.
In doctrine the Seventh-Day Baptists differ from other
Baptist bodies only concerning the observance of the sev-
enth day. They believe that the seventh day is the Sab-
bath of the Lord, that it was instituted in Eden, promul-
gated at Sinai, made binding upon all men at all times, and
is in the nature of its relation to God and to man irrepeal-
able. They hold that any attempt to connect the Sabbath
law and obligation with any other day of the week is illog-
ical and tends to destroy the institution.
The Seventh-Day Baptists have two collegiate institu-
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32 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
ttons, one at Milton, Vf^s.^ the other at Albert Center, N. Y.
Both sexes are admitted on equal terms to these colleges.
Albert Center is also the headquarters of its publishing
interests.
The denomination is represented in twenty-four States,
having io6 organizations, 78 church edifices, valued at
$265,260, and 9143 communicants. The average seating
capacity of the edifices is 285 ; average value, $3401.
Eighteen halls, etc, with a seating capacity of 1 125, are
also occupied.
Summary by States.
OiBBOi> Chuicii
T "WfJi^^
Seatinc Value of
Car Chiudi
Property.
Com-
Alabama i
Arkansas 2
Connecticut 2
Florida i
Idaho I
Illinois 9
Iowa 3
Kansas 3
Kentucky i
Louisiana i
Minnesota 5
Mississippi i
Missouri i
Nebraska 4
New Jersey 4
New York 28
North Carolina .... i
Ohio I
Pennsylvania 5
Rhode Island 7
South Dakota 2
Texas 4
West Virginia 9
Wisconsin 10
Total 106
II
1 240 $900 60
2 600 4>5oo 103
I 200 i»5oo 14
1 200 400 28
6 1,650 8,825 350
2 500 4,300 169
1 3«> 3>5«> 229
6
36
2 500 2,500 246
33
1 200 500 13
2 400 3,900 267
5 1,400 55,285 745
24 7,015 71,025 3,274
10
I 350 3>ooo 131
4 1,300 5,800 224
7 2,162 55,700 1,271
I 225 1,000 28
50
8 1,800 15,900 767
9 2,425 26,725 1,078
78 21,467 $265,260 9,143
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THE BAPTISTS. 33
6. — ^THE FREEWILL BAPTISTS.
The first church of this denomination was organized by
Benjamin Randall in New Durham, N. H., in 1780. He
was at first a Congregationalist Changing his views on
the subject of baptism, he became a Baptist ; but he did
not adhere to the Calvinistic doctrines of predestination,
election, limited atonement, and final perseverance of the
saints, as generally held at that time in that denomination.
He was therefore adjudged unsound, and fellowship was
withdrawn from him by the Baptists. This was in 1779.
In 1780 he was ordained by two Baptist ministers who
sympathized with his doctrinal views, and in the same year
the first Freewill Baptist church was organized, as already
stated. This church and others of like faith which sprung
up in New England were simply called Baptist churches.
At the close of the century the distinctive word " Freewill "
was adopted, members having been popularly designated
" Freewillers," in allusion to the doctrine held concerning
the freedom of the will. The churches multiplied. At
the end of the first year there were 5, at the close of the
first decade 18, and at the close of the first half- century
450, with 21,000 members. The denomination was grad-
ually extended beyond the bounds of New England into
the West Its strong antislavery sentiment prevented its
advance into the South. In 1835 the general conference,
speaking for the whole body, took a pronounced position
against slavery. In 1841 the Free- Communion Baptists
of New York united with the Freewill Baptists, adding 55
churches and 2500 members. The body lost several thou-
sand members, however, by the Adventist movement and
by local divisions. It had 60,000 in 1845, but in 1857 this
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34 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
number had been reduced to less than 49,000. Its num-
bers also declined during the war, many of its ministers
and members going into the army. By 1870 it had recov-
ered from all its losses, reporting 60,000 members as re-
turned in 1845. A fact deserving mention is that women
began to labor as preachers among the churches as early as
1 79 1. They are not debarred from ordination.
The principles of doctrine and practice held by the Free-
will Baptists are embodied in a " Treatise" ordered by the
general conference in 1832 and published in 1834 and since
revised. The doctrinal chapters, twenty-one in number,
declare (to give their more distinctive statements) that
though man cannot in his fallen state become the child of
God by natural goodness and works of his own, redemp-
tion and regeneration are freely provided for him. The
" call of the gospel is coextensive with the atonement to
all men," so that salvation is "equally possible to all."
The " truly regenerate " are " through infirmity and mani-
fold temptations" in "danger of falling," and "ought
therefore to watch and pray, lest they make shipwreck of
faith." Christian baptism is immersion, and participation
in the Lord's Supper is the " privilege and duty of all who
have spiritual union with Christ," and " no man has a right
to forbid these tokens to the least of his disciples." The
denomination has always advocated open communion, as
expressed in the foregoing sentence, in opposition to dose
communion, which is the rule among the Regular Baptists.
In the brief articles of faith provided for churches the
" human will " is declared to be " free and self-determined,
having power to yield to gracious influences and live, or
resist them and perish," and the doctrine of election is de-
scribed, not as an " unconditional decree " fixing the future
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THE BAPTISTS. 35
State of man, but simply as God's determination " from the
beginning to save all who should comply with the condi-
tions of salvation."
The Freewill Baptists have quarterly and yearly confer-
enceSy and a general conference meeting once in two years.
The quarterly conference consists of delegates representing
a number of churches. It inquires into the condition of
the churches, and is empowered to advise, admonish, or
withdraw fellowship from them. It may not, however,
" deprive a church of its inpependent form of government
nor its right to discipline its members, nor labor with in-
dividual members of churches as such " ; it may only deal
with the churches as churches. The yearly meeting is
composed of delegates elected by quarterly meeting's. It
occupies the same relation to quarterly meetings as quar-
terly meetings do to the churches. The general confer-
ence, which is charged with the care of the general inter-
ests of the denomination, is composed of delegates from
the yearly meetings. It may discipline yearly meetings,
but not quarterly meetings or churches. It is expressly
forbidden to reverse or change the decisions of any of the
subordinate bodies. Those desiring to become ministers
are licensed for a year by the quarterly meeting and or-
dained by a council of the meeting. Each church, besides
its pastor, clerk, and treasurer, has a board of deacons, who
assist at baptism and the Lord's Supper, which is observed
monthly, have the care of the poor, and conduct religious
meetings in the absence of the pastor.
The denomination has 51 yearly meetings (some are
called associations), with 1586 organizations, 1225 edifices,
valued at $3,115,642, and 87,898 communicants. It also
occupies 349 halls, etc., having a seating capacity of 37,260.
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36 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
It is represented in thirty-three States, chiefly Northern
and Western. It is strongest in New England, where it
originated. In Maine there are 16,294 members. This is
the banner State of the denomination.
The average seating capacity of the churches is 285, and
the averse value $2543.
Summary by States.
Oi|puii- Church
¥9tiffni Edifion.
Alabama 15 13
Arkansas i i
California 2 2
Connecticut 2 2
Florida 3
Illinois 115 83
Indiana 31 28
Iowa 45 36
Kansas 30 11
Kentucky 21 17
Louisiana 40 25
Maine 280 232
Maryland 3 3
Massachusetts . . 20 17
Michigan 128 113
Minnesota 30 24
Mississippi 25 20
Missoun 108 56
Nebraska 43 19
New Hampshire. 94 89
New York 134 128
North Carolina . i ....
Ohio 128 103
Oklahoma i
Pennsylvania ... 56 40
Rhode Island ... 26 26
South Dakota... 5 4
Tennessee 53 35
Texas 8 6
Vermont 43 34
Virginia 9 6
West Virginia . . 32 10
Wisconsin 48 42
Total 1,586 1,225
Sodmg
Value of
Com.
C
Chtirch
muni.
v^.
Property.
^n^y
3.i<»
$1,245
847
500
250
40
900
19,500
179
400
2,200
125
22
19,320
8,075
71,500
6,096
^
1,926
9,740
2,029
4,900
12,425
1,361
4,450
7,980
1,641
4,830
24,245
1,000
67,930
584,750
16,294
525
1,800
98
6,265
188,200
3,122
39.HS
277,275
5,435
llffi
94,550
1,497
7,540
1,339
15,720
59,825
4,752
4,990
29,600
1,185
33,325
379»ooo
8,004
3^5,727
529,050
8,636
200
100
II
30,645
149,350
6,982
100
9,695
76,300
2,478
7,845
226,757
3,252
700
11,500
22,825
168
10,895
2,864
887
3,300
261
9,110
94,375
2,325
1,725
7,000
478
3,350
34,000
1,668
10,150
94,400
1,683
349,309 $3,115,642 87,898
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THE BAPTISTS. 37
7. — ^THE ORIGINAL FREEWILL BAPTISTS.
In the first half of the eighteenth century a number of
General Baptist churches were organized in North Carolina.
These, with some which had been formed in Virginia a
little earlier, constituted an association in 1729. Thirty
years later many of these General had become Calvinistic
or Regular Baptist churches. Those who did not unite
with the Calvinistic associations were popularly called
" Freewillers/* because they held to the doctrine of the
freedom of the will. Accepting that term, they became
known eventually as Original Freewill Baptists, the word
" original " probably referring to their early history.
Their doctrines are set forth in a confession of faith con-
sisting of eighteen articles. It declares that Christ " freely
gave himself a ransom for all, tasting death for every
man " ; that God wants all to come to repentance ; that
" all men, at one time or another, are found in such capac-
ity as that through the grace of God they may be eternally
saved"; that those "ordained to condemnation" are the
ungodly who refuse to repent and believe the gospel;
that children dying in infancy are not subject to the
second death; that God has not "decreed any person
to everlasting death or everlasting life out of respect or
mere choice," except in appointing the " godly unto life
and the ungodly who die in sin unto death " ; that only
believers should be baptized, and the only baptism is im-
mersion. They believe in washing the saints' feet and in
anointing the sick with oil.
The churches hold for business purposes quarterly con-
ferences, in which all members may participate ; they have
a clerk, a treasurer, deacons who prepare for the commun-
ion service and care for the poor, and ruling elders to settle
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38 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
controversies between brethren. Communion and feet-
washing are as a rule held quarterly. Members of churches
are forbidden to frequent the " race-track, the card-table,
shooting- matches, or any other place of disorder." In
church trials it is provided that " no person of color within
the pale of the church shall g^ive testimony against any
person " except one " of color." Only male members shall
occupy the offices of the church. Annual conferences,
composed of all the elders (pastors), ministers (ordained),
and preachers (licentiates) in good standing, and of dele-
gates from the churches, have power to " silence " preach-
ers, try and disown or discontinue elders, receive new
churches, and settle difficulties in churches.
There are three conferences, with churches in the two
Carolinas. The number of organizations is 167, with 125
church edifices, valued at $57»oo5, and 11,864 communi-
cants. The average seating capacity of the edifices is 331,
and their average value $455. Forty-three halls, etc., af-
ford seating capacity for 4650 persons.
Value of Com-
Church
Summary by
States.
Omni- Chnidi
sa&ns. Edifices.
133 99
34 26
35.7SO
5,650
Propefty.
North Carolina 133 99 35>75o $52i355 10,224
South Carolina .... 34 26 5,650 4,650 1,640
Total 167 125 41,400 $57,005 11,864
8. — ^THE GENERAL BAPTISTS.
The General Baptists are thus distinguished because
originally they differed from the Particular or Regular
Baptists in holding that the atonement of Christ was gen-
eral, not particular; that is, for the whole race, and not
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THE BAPTISTS. 39
simply for those effectually called. There were General
Baptists in England early in the seventeenth century.
Indeed, some of their historians claim that they appeared
both in England and America before the Particular or
Regrular Baptists.
General Baptists in New England associated themselves
in a yearly meeting at the beginning of the eighteenth
century. Churches of the same faith and order were also
organized in the first half of that century in Maryland,
Virginia, and the Carolinas. Most of these early churches,
it appears, subsequently became Regular or Calvinistic
churches.
The first association of General Baptists in the West,
where the denomination now has its entire strength, was
the Liberty, of Kentucky, organized in 1824. In 1830 it
adopted the practice of open communion, and about 1845
changed one of its articles of belief, which had been form-
ulated at its organization, so as to embrace " infants and
idiots" in the covenants of God's grace, and another so
as to say that " he that shall endure to the end, the same
shall be saved," instead of declaring that " the saints will
finally persevere through grace to glory." These changes
indicated the desire to eliminate such elements of Calvin-
ism as had been introduced when the articles were adopted
a few years before.
In 1870 the General Baptists formed a general associa-
tion, in which all General Baptist associations are repre-
sented. The purpose of the general association was to
bring " into more intimate and fraternal relation and effect-
ive cooperation various bodies of liberal Baptists." The
denomination has received accessions of Freewill churches,
but some of its churches have in turn joined Freewill and
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40 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Other Baptist bodies. It has increased in membership
quite rapidly. In 1870 it had 8000 members; in 1880,
12,367; and in 1890, 2 £,362. It is represented in the
States of Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri,
Arkansas, and Nebraska.
The confession of faith adopted by the general associa-
tion declares that the Bible is the only rule of faith and
practice ; that there is one God, the Father^ the Son, and
the Holy Ghost; that man is "fallen and depraved" and
has no ability in himself to salvation ; that he that endures
to the end shall be saved ; that rewards and punishment
are eternal ; that the only proper mode of baptism is im-
mersion; that the only proper subjects of baptism are
believers; that none save infants and idiots can partake
of the benefits of the atonement, which was made for all,
except by repentance and faith. They are in substantial
agreement with the Freewill Baptists.
The General Baptists have 22 associations, 399 organi-
zations, 209 edifices, valued at $201,140, and 21,362 com-
municants. The average seating capacity of the edifices
is 344, and their average value $964. There are 180 halls,
etc., with a seating capacity of 28,201.
Summary by States.
Muww. —Ill pBcitjr. Property. caati.
Arkansas 33 4 2,000 $11565 1,317
Illinois 41 30 8,400 12,125 2,605
Indiana 64 59 32,800 i35>425 SfSS^
Kentucky 68 27 10, 125 20,950 4,455
Missouri 166 70 21,025 22,075 6,654
Nebraska 5 72
Tennessee 23 19 7,500 8,400 1,008
Total 399 209 71,850 $201,140 21,363
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THE BAPTISTS. 4 1
9. — ^THE SEPARATE BAPTISTS.
The Separate Baptists of the last century were those
who favored the great Whitefield revival movement.
They separated from those Baptists who, for various rea-
sons, opposed the revival. They had considerable acces-
sions from the Congregational churches, and became nu-
merous in New England, Virginia, and elsewhere. Most of
these Separate Baptists formed a union with the Regular
Baptists a century or more ago, but a few still maintain
separate organizations. Two associations which retain the
word "Separate" in their title are counted as Regular
Baptists.
Separate Baptists are generally in doctrinal agreement
with the Freewill Baptists, holding to a general atonement
and rejecting the doctrine of election and reprobation.
There is one association, with 24 organizations, 19 church
edifices, valued at $9200, and 1599 communicants. The
average seating capacity of the edifices is 297, and thtir
average value $484. There are 5 halls, etc., with a sea t-
ing capacity of 525.
Summary.
fir^M..; nk»«.v Scalinf Value of Con-
pMaQr* Properly. c>nti»
Indiana 24 19 5,650 $9,200 1,599
10. — ^THE UNITED BAPTISTS.
There being in Congregational and Baptist churches in
New England some opposition to the great revival move*
ment of the eighteenth century led by George Whitefield,
a separation occurred in many instances, and there were
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42 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
" Separates " both among the Congregationalists and Bap-
tists. The latter were called Separate Baptists, and those
from whom they separated were called, by way of distinc-
tion, Regular Baptists, a name which they still retain. The
Separate Baptists became quite numerous in New England
(where many of those who separated from the Congfrega-
tional churches united with them) and elsewhere. But in
the last quarter of the eighteenth century and the begrin-
ning of the present. Separate and Regular Baptists came
together in Virginia, Kentucky, and elsewhere, and called
themselves United Baptists. The great body of these are
now known as Regular or Missionary Baptists.
There are still a few United Baptists who retain the old
title and an independent existence. These are tabulated
herewith separately. A few associations in full fellowship
with the Regular Baptists still use the word " United."
The doctrinal basis on which the union of Separate and
Regular Baptists was accomplished in Kentucky in 1801
was not distinctly Calvinistic. While it did declare the
final perseverance of the saints, it did not set forth election
or reprobation, and it stipulated that the holding of the
doctrine that " Christ tasted death for every man " (gen-
eral atonement) should be " no bar to communion." The
United Baptists, according to the articles of faith set forth
by most of their associations, are now moderately Calvin-
istic. These articles declare that Christ " suffered and died
to make atonement for sin," not indicating whether this
atonement was general or particular ; that though the gos-
pel is to be preached to all nations, and sinners are to be
called upon to repent, such is their opposition to the gospel
that they freely choose a state of sin; that God in his
" mere good pleasure " elected or chose in Christ a great
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THE BAPTISTS. 43
multitude among all nations ; that through the influences
of the Holy Spirit he " effectually calls them," and they
" freely choose Christ for their Saviour " ; that those who
are united to God by a living faith are forgiven and justi-
fied "solely on account of the merits of Christ"; that
those who are justified and regenerated will persevere
to the end; that baptism should be administered only
to believers and by immersion; that the Lord's Supper
should be " observed by those who have been regenerated,
regularly baptized, and become members of a gospel
church " ; that feet- washing ought to be practiced by all
baptized believers.
There are 12 associations of United Baptists, with 204
organizations, 1 79 church edifices, valued at $80, 1 50, and
13,209 communicants. The average seating capacity of
the churches is 336, and their average value $448. Halls,
eta, 23, with a seating capacity of 3650.
Summary by States.
STATES. 2Ei
Alabama 15
Arkansas 3
Kentucky 81
Missouri 45
Tennessee 60
iiM<k
ScttlDC
Vahieof
Com.
!A<i^
Ca-
Chinch
muni.
I-dty.
Pkupeiijr.
cants.
IS
4,900
$5i900
702
^
1,000
925
146
29,850
39,750
6,443
2,738
32
11,920
15,975
SI
12,550
17,600
3,180
Total 204 179 60,220 $80,150 13,209
II. — THE BAPTIST CHURCH OF CHRIST.
This body holds a separate position among Baptists. Its
oldest associations, the Elk River and Duck River, were
organized in 1808 in Tennessee, where more than half of
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44 RELIGJOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
the communicants reported are to be found. Its articles
of faith set forth a mild form of Calvinism, with a general
atonement. They declare that Christ "tasted death for
every man " and made it possible for God to have mercy
upon all who come unto him on gospel terms ; that sinners
are justified by faith ; that the saints will persevere ; that
true believers are the only proper subjects of baptism;
that immersion is the only proper baptism ; and that bap-
tism, the Lord's Supper, and feet- washing are ordinances
of the gospel to be continued until Christ's second coming.
This body claims to be the oldest body of Baptists, and
that there were no others in Tennessee until 1825, when
the Two-Seed churches came into existence as the result
of what is known as the Antinomian Controversy.
There are 152 organizations, 135 church edifices, val-
ued at $56,755, and 8254 communicants. Of the latter,
5065 are in Tennessee ; the rest are divided between Ala-
bama, Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, and
Texas. The average seating capacity of the edifices is
304, and their average value $422. Seventeen halb, etc.,
are occupied as places of worship. They have a seating
capacity of 1275.
Summary by States.
Orsani. Chinch ^"^ Vt^^ ^^
pacity. iTopcny. cfwra
Alabama i8 i8 4,800 $5,200 782
Arkansas 27 18 4,700 7,800 887
Mississippi 8 8 2,400 49950 368
Missouri 4 2 435 900 185
North Carolina 16 16 4,600 5>4oo 659
Tennessee 69 69 22,950 31,355 5,065
Texas 10 3 1,000 1,150 308
Total 152 135 40,885 $56,755 8,254
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THE BAPTISTS. 45
12. — ^THE PRIMITIVE BAPTISTS.
Those who are variously known as " Primitive," " Old
School," " Regular," and "Anti-Mission " Baptists are so
called because of their opposition, begun more than fifty
years ago, to the establishment of Sunday-schools, mission,
Bible, and other societies, which they regard as modem
and human institutions unwarranted by the Scriptures and
unnecessary.
Opposition among Baptists to the missionary and other
church societies was manifested some years before the
division began. In 1835 the Chemung Association, hav-
ing churches in New York and Pennsylvania, adopted a
resolution declaring that as a number of associations with
which it had been in correspondence had " departed from
the simplicity of the doctrine and practice of the gospel of
Christ," " uniting themselves with the world and what are
falsely called benevolent societies founded upon a monied
basis," and preaching a gospel " differing from the gospel
of Christ," it would not continue in fellowship with them.
It urged all Baptists who could not approve the new ideas
to come out and be separate from those holding them.
The Baltimore (Md.) Association made a similar declara-
tion in 1836, and a gradual separation was the result. The
Warwick Association of New York issued a circular letter
in 1840, which shows that a warm controversy was then in
progress. This letter, which was written in behalf of the
" new ideas,'.' charged the Primitive brethren with holding
hyper- Calvinistic doctrines, and insisted that their predes-
tinarianism was such as practically to deny any responsi-
bility in man for his conduct or condition. It attributed
to them statements to the effect that God carries on his
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46 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
work "without the least instrumentality whatever," and
that " all the preaching from John the Baptist until now,
if made to bear on one unregenerated sinner," could not
" quicken his poor dead souL" The Primitive Baptists do
not oppose the preaching of the gospel, but believe that
God will convert the world in his own way and own good
time without the aid of missionary societies.
Primitive Baptist associations generally print in their an-
nual minutes articles of faith, a form of constitution, and rules
of order. The articles of faith, while practically the same
in doctrinal view, vary in length and phraseology. Some
of them have eleven articles, some less, some more. They
declare that by Adam's fall or transgression "all his
posterity became sinners in the sight of God " ; that the
*' corruption of human nature " is such that man cannot by
his own free will and ability " reinstate himself in the favor
of God " ; that " God elected, or chose, his people in Christ
before the foundation of the world " ; that sinners are jus-
tified "only by the righteousness of Christ, imputed to
them " ; that the saints will finally persevere and " not one
of them will ever be finally lost"; that "baptism, the
Lord's Supper, and washing the saints' feet are ordinances
of the gospel and should be continued until Christ's second
coming"; that "the institutions of the day [church soci-
eties] are the works of man " ; that it is therefore " wrong
to join them," and that no fellowship should be had with
them. An article of the constitution declines " fellowship
with any church or churches " which support any " mis-
sionary, Bible, tract, or Sunday-school union society or
advocates State conventions or theological schoob," or
" any other society " formed " under the pretense of cir-
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THE BAPTISTS. 47
culating the gospel of Christ." The Primitive Baptists
have no State conventions or theological seminaries. They
acknowledge no other mode of baptism than immersion,
and insist that only believers are proper subjects of it, that
it is a prerequisite to the Lord's Supper, and that no min-
ister has a right to administer the ordinances unless he
has been " called of God," " come under the imposition of
hands by a presbytery," and is " in fellowship with the
church of which he is a member."
The denomination is represented in twenty- eight States
and the District of Columbia. Its strongholds are : Geor-
gia, 18,535; Alabama, 14,903; Tennessee, 13,972; North
Carolina, 11,740; and Kentucky, 10,665. It has little
strength in any Northern State except Indiana and Illinois.
The total of members is 121,347. There are 3222 organi-
zations which have 2849 edifices, with a seating capacity
of 899,273 and a value of $1,649,85 1. The average seat-
ing capacity is 312 and the average value $580.
According to the Baptist Almanac of 1844, there were
in that year 184 Primitive Baptist associations, with 1622
churches, 900 ordained ministers, and 61,162 members.
If these returns were correct they have gained since that
date 1600 churches and about 60,000 members. While
their associations usually print annual minutes, which give
statistics of membership and number of churches, no gen-
eral returns for the denomination are published. For many
years its membership has been estimated at 45,000 by
statisticians of other churches. The census tables show
that this estimate was wide of the mark. There are 279
associations, of which 1 5 are colored. Colored members
are not numerous.
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48 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
n,..,T riM,.^k ScaliBff Tahieof Com-
pccity. Property. optii
Alabama 360 335 105,076 $135,364 14*903
Arkansas 131 93 31,708 39,033 2,994
Delaware 6 7 1,550 19,000 183
District of Columbia 3 34
Florida 67 65 15*830 37,535 1,997
Georgia 483 475 168,935 310,455 18,535
Illmois 160 133 40,100 939I00 5,301
Indiana 144 138 50,034 123,550 7,078
Iowa 34 15 5,300 9,950 853
Kansas 19 7 3,300 10,100 468
Kentucky 335 308 60,580 15 1»435 10,665
Louisiana 43 43 14,775 18,955 I9603
Maine 3 3 635 3,300 137
Maryland 16 15 3,335 37,950 373
Massachusetts i i 150 5i5oo 10
Mississippi 109 X04 36,630 38,600 3,359
Missouri 139 93 38,350 83,975 3,763
Nebraska 3 i 300 800 40
New Jersey 4 4 1,400 8,000 358
New York 31 36 8,700 84,700 1,019
North Carolina 311 394 89,800 129,695 11,740
Ohio 139 138 40,385 133,190 4,363
Pennsylvania 15 10 3,430 14, 100 314
South Carolina 33 33 5*750 7*050 531
Tennessee 316 390 97, 165 i47>455 I3>972
Texas 156 91 37,330 341675 4,301
Virginia 334 191 63, 195 93*205 9,950
West Virginia 65 64 16,700 34,700 3,777
Wisconsin 4 4 1,300 4*500 138
Total 3,333 3,849 899,373 $1,649,851 131,347
13. — THE OLD TWO-SEED-IN-THE-SPIRIT PREDESTI-
NARIAN BAPTISTS.
m
These are very conservative Baptists, who are not
fellowship with the Regular or Missionary, nor with the
Primitive or any other body of Baptists. They are strongly
Calvinistic, holding firmly to the doctrine of predestination,
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THE BAPTISTS. 49
as their name indicates. The phrase " Two Seed " b un-
derstood to indicate their belief that there are two seeds
^K>ne of evil and one of good. This doctrine is generally
accredited to Elder Daniel Parker, a native of Virginia,
who was ordained in Tennessee in 1806, and labored in
that State till 181 7, in Illinois till 1836, and then in Texas,
where he died. He published in 1826 a pamphlet which
set forth the two-seed doctrine, and in 1829 another, en-
titled " Second Dose of the Doctrine of Two Seeds." The
following explanation of the doctrine has been given by a
writer who had access to the pamphlets and other writings
relating to it :
" The essence of good is God ; the essence of evil is the
devil. Good angels are emanations from or particles of
God ; evil angels are particles of the devil. When God
created Adam and Eve they were endowed with an ema-
nation from himself, or particles of God were included in
their constitution. They were wholly good. Satan, how-
ever, infused into them particles of his essence, by which
they were corrupted. In the beginning God had appointed
that Eve should bring forth only a certain number of off-
spring ; the same provision applied to each of her daughters.
But when the particles of evil essence had been infused
by Satan, the conception of Eve and of her daughters was
increased. They were now required to bear the original
number, who were styled the seed of God, and an addi-
tional number, who were called the seed of the serpent.
"The seed of God constituted a part of the body of
Christ. For them the atonement was absolute; they
would all be saved. The seed of the serpent did not par-
take of the benefits of the atonement, and would all be lost.
All the manifestations of good or evil in men are but dis-
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50 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
plays of the essence that has been infused into them. The
Christian warfare is a conflict between these essences."
Not all the associations accept the peculiar title given
above. Some call themselves simply " Regular," others,
" Regular Predestinarian," and still others, " Regular Two-
Seed Predestinarian Primitive Baptists." Their articles of
faith also vary in phraseology. One set is quite brief,
having only ten articles; another is more extended and
embraces twelve articles. The latter declares that God
is the Creator of all things and governs all things in
righteousness ; that man was created holy, but by sin fell
into a depraved state, from which he is utterly unable to
extricate himself; that God's elect were chosen in Christ
before the world began, and "appointed to faith and
obedience in love " by the Spirit of God because of the
" righteousness, life, death, resurrection, and ascension " of
Christ; that God's elect will in due time be effectually
called and regenerated, the righteousness of God being
imputed to them ; that they will never finally faU away ;
that good works are the fruits of faith and grace in the
heart and follow after regeneration ; that ministers should
receive " legal authority " through the imposition of the
hands of a presbytery acting for a gospel church, and
should be subject to the discipline of the church ; that the
" eternal work of the Holy Spirit " is manifested externally
as well as internally, in experimental religion and the call
to the ministry, and the true church should distinguish
itself from aU " false sects," and have no fellowship with
them ; that the church is a spiritual kingdom which men
in a state of nature cannot see, and it should therefore re-
ceive as members only those who have hope in Christ and
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THE BAPTISTS. 5 1
an experimental knowledge of salvation; that the ceremony
of feet- washing ought to be observed, and that the joys of
the righteous and the punishment of the wicked will be
endless.
Two-Seed Predestinarian Baptists differ from Primitive
Baptists concerning the doctrine of Predestination. The
former hold, according to the statements of one of their
prominent elders, that God predestined all his children to
eternal life, and the devil and all his spiritual children to
the eternal kingdom of darkness ; that he foreordained all
events whatever, from the creation to the consummation
of all things, not suffering, in his infinite wisdom and per-
fect knowledge, anything to occur to change his plans.
The Primitive Baptists hold, as explained by the same
authority, that while God predestined some to eternal life,
his predestination did not extend absolutely to all things,
for this doctrine would, they insist, blasphemously impute
to the Almighty the existence of evil, and do away with
sin and human accountability. Some of the Old Two-
Seed Baptists claim Peter Waldo, John Calvin, Wyclif,
Knox, and Bunyan as " elders " who held the true faith as
to the two seeds, and say that Arminius was the great cor-
rupter of sound doctrine on this subject
Many of the Two-Seed Baptists are strongly opposed
to a paid ministry. They hold that the calling of the min-
istry is ''to comfort Zion, feed the flock, and contend
earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints." They
are antinomians, and do not believe that the help of a min-
ister is needed by the Saviour to reach and save sinners.
He is a full and complete Saviour and carries on the work
of salvation without the help of men. "Modem insti-
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52 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
tutions/' such as Sunday-schools, theological seminaries,
Bible and missionary societies, are regarded with maiiced
disfavor, as among the Primitive Baptists.
There are 50 associations, with 473 organizations, 397
church edifices, valued at $172,230, and 12,851 commu-
nicants. Though the communicants are scattered over
twenty-four States, they are most numerous in Texas,
Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Arkansas. The
average seating capacity of the edifices is 339, and the
average value $434. There are 75 halls, etc., with a seat-
ing capacity of 5285.
Summary by States.
--..TM- Ormni- Church
•TATE8. xaSooM, VA\fwm
Alabama 24 24
Arkansas 62 58
Florida 4 4
Georgia 18 18
Idaho 2 2
Illinois 3 I
Indiana 14 14
Iowa I
Kansas S 2
Kentucky 58 58
Louisiana 10 10
Maine 3 3
Mississippi 20 26
Missouri 32 23
New York 3 3
North Carolina 9 3
Ohio I I
Oregon 15 2
Pennsylvania 5 5
Tennessee 37 36
Texas loi 82
Virginia 7 2
Washington 5 I
West Virginia 25 19
Total 473 397
ScatiBC
Value of
Com-
€».•
Chuidi
muni.
Pwity.
PMpCftJ.
cants.
4,9a>
24,880
$7,050
30,800
538
1,230
800
400
39
4,900
4,9So
'f.
SSo
700
200
800
5"
5,000
6,700
346
10
500
6^
162
21,700
29,450
2,401
2,050
1,900
170
1,000
1,400
"5
6,800
10,250
840
7i9a>
9,050
668
1,300
850
1,900
96
680
183
300
^
33
1,400
1,800
194
4,900
f'S^
264
13,900
16,800
1,270
23,075
31,650
2,831
675
1,050
142
150
400
J\
7,000
9,500
806
134,730 $172,230 12,851
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THE BAPTISTS.
53
The following table gives a summary of all Baptist bodies.
The returns in one or two cases are somewhat fuller than
those of the census.
Summary by States op All Baptist Bodies.
Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Co-
lumbia
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Indian Territory
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts ..
Midiigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina .
North Dakota . . 54
Ohio 885
Oklahoma i
Oioiii.
ChuKh
ntE»t.
Edlfieo.
3»3<»
3,109
6
4
2,279
1,780
16s
123
54
40
139
142
19
23
63
51
807
6g9
1,966
3,895
23
13
■•e
1,163
763
181
no
Soo
617
IS
2,273
2,024
1,441
1,376
523
461
104
100
340
364
523
466
229
187
2,679
2,562
3,355
',755
14
11
384
186
9
I
179
186
232
261
15
4
1,071
1,079
3,04«
3,124
8ii
Seatinc
Value <tf
Com.
On.
Chinch
mum-
pwaty.
Property.
canes.
906,734 $3,110,363
258,405
875
11,300
197
518,813
1,066,104
128,724
34,925
763,860
11,383
10,935
440,000
4,944
48,380
1,656,750
22,600
6,332
184,300
2,006
26,500
151.843
914,150
19,372
375,936
41,647
1,237,431
3,109,390
357,241
2,930
37,300
745
352,133
3,681,360
109,640
2551604
1,627,397
70,380
18,485
35,765
9,147
104,771
1,342,690
33,962
95,715
921,958
34,665
663,455
3,020,742
229,524
98,552
321,426
988,967
131,224
37,659
1,511,000
^ 831,275
il5S
149,004
6,301,530
62,966
130,680
2,135,694
1,204,889
39,580
46,460
16,441
734.185
536,240
1,433,332
224,801
2,980,316
159,371
3,950
89,000
683
42,380
549,010
13.481
500
7,000
63
61,635
964,050
16,772
97,375
3,020,913
39,760
1,350
22,000
355
i,098!o84
13,625,588
142,736
2,556,147
310,920
7,665
90,300
2,298
240,415
2,819,828
"^'^i
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54 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States of All Baptist Bodibs. — CmtmuitL
Ovui. Chuidi S?^ ^S^ ^^
•^^"•' nam. Edifices. . ^Qiurdi mtim-
pMiQr> iTopsrtj. cants.
Oregon 123 71 i9ii4o $3i9fi25 5,500
Pennsylvania... 720 704 240,204 6,0889322 86,620
Rhode Island... 113 117 4i>ooo 1,450,117 17,293
South Carolina.. 1,676 1,633 521,009 1,606,385 203,959
South Dakota .. 90 59 12,236 239,675 4,052
Tennessee 2,413 2,193 720,815 2,566,373 186,174
Texas 4,061 2,551 667,120 2,119,096 248,523
Utoh 4 3 700 65,000 327
Vermont 143 137 37,234 678,875 11,258
Virginia 2,038 1,938 689,609 3,152,582 303»i34
Washington 95 56 12,690 242,160 3,941
West Virginia . . 681 485 140,220 552,365 45,414
Wisconsin 254 235 59,90^ 904,570 I7i04i
Wyoming 9 3 525 27,875 262
Total 43,029 37,789 1 i,S99iS34 $82,392,423 3,717,9^9
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CHAPTER III.
THE RIVER BRETHREN.
Those who first constituted the body popularly known
as River Brethren came to this country from Switzerland
in 1 750 and settled near the Susquehanna River in eastern
Pennsylvania. They have no history to which the inquirer
can refer, and they are able to give few particulars of the
early life of the denomination. They were, it is supposed,
Mennonites. As the result of a revival movement, begin-
ning in 1770, many of these people who had been formal
in their worship became zealous believers, and organized
separate congregations. The first members were baptized,
it is believed, in the Susquehanna River, and the denomi-
nation thus came to be known as River Brethren. Jacob
Engle was their first minister.
In their belief they hold to trine immersion, the washing
of feet, nonresistance, and nonconformity to the world.
In many points in belief and practice they are like the
Mennonites.
I. — ^THE BRETHREN IN CHRIST.
This is by far the largest and best organized branch of
the River Brethren. Its churches, of which there are 78,
are associated in district conferences, and there is also a
general conference, representing the whole body. There
are twenty of the district conferences. The total of com-
5S
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S6 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
municants is 2688. The average seating capacity of the
churches is 422, and their average value $1623. There
are 27 halls, etc., with a seating capacity of 1080.
Summary by States.
ptaty.
Illinois > 12 6 3»300
Indiana 7 2 700
Iowa 2
Kansas 9 5 2,150
Maryland i i 600
Michigan 7 2 250
New York i i 400
Ohio 13 9 3,900
Pennsylvania 26 19 8,705
Totol 78 45 19,005
Summary by Districts.
Ashland, Ohio 3 2 500
Center, Pa. 3
Clarence Center, N. Y. . . i i 400
Cumberland, Pa. 2 2 800
Dayton, Ohio and Ind. . . 6 4 i>900
Donegal, Pa. 2 2 1,200
Indiana, Ind 6 i^ 700
Iowa, Iowa 2
Lykins Valley, Pa 5 4 1,105
Morrison's Cove, Pa 4 4 i>90o
New Guilford, Pa. & Md. 2 2 1,000
North Dickinson, Kan. . . 5 5 2,150
North Franklin, Pa. 6 3 1,700
Pine Creek, 111 2 i 500
Port Huron, Mich 7 2 250
Rapho, Pa 3 3 1,600
Shannon, 111 6 4 i>5oo
South Dickinson, Kan. . . 4
Wayne, Ohio 5 i}i 1,500
Whiteside, 111 4 i 300
Total 78 45 19,005
Value <tf
Com-
Chnreh
Property.
GMtB.
$i3»7oo
181
1,800
130
is
9,500
588
3,000
36
550
52
1,800
32
14,100
410
28,600
1,219
$73*050 2|688
$1,500
56
23
1,800
32
3iOoo
8,400
130
235
4,500
1,800
222
120
40
4,000
216
3,600
137
4,200
72
9,500
289
4,600
234
1,200
43
550
52
7,700
221
11,300
91
299
4,200
129
1,200
47
$73i05o 2,688
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THE RIVER BRETHREN. 57
2. — THE OLD ORDER OF YORKER BRETHREN.
This branch is generally called " Yorker " Brethren, be-
cause when the River Brethren were divided in 1862 the
churches in York County were not affected by the division.
It is an extremely small body, holding to the original doc-
trines and practices of the River Brethren.
Summary by States.
Omni- Chuidi S***"** Value of Cooi-
awiOBSi niniiM«T-B. p^cily. PropCKtJ. CMItS.
Indiana i .. .. 12
Iowa I . . . . ic
Ohio 2 38
Pennsylvania 4 149
Total 8 214
3. — THE UNITED ZION'S CHILDREN.
This branch is the result of a division which occurred in
Dauphin County, Pa, in 1853. It has the same confession
of faith as the River Brethren, and differs from them only
in unimportant particulars. In observing the ceremony of
feet- washing one person both washes and dries; among
the River Brethren one person does the washing and an-
other the drying. Services are held in the churches alter-
nately every six weeks. Communion is celebrated once
or twice a year.
The 25 organizations are all in Pennsylvania They
own that number of houses of worship, valued at $8300.
The number of members is 525.
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58 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SUBCMARY.
Oiyui. Oimtli Segof ^toecf 0».
pttdty. Propert]r. cmts.
Pennsylvania 25 25 3,100 $8,300 525
Summary by States of All River Brethren.
Illinois 12 6 2^300 $i3y70o 181
Indiana 8 2 700 1,800 142
Iowa 3 55
Kansas 9 5 2,150 9,500 588
Maryland i i 600 3^000 36
Michigan 7 2 250 (50 52
New York i i 400 1,800 32
Ohio 15 9 3^900 i4>ioo 448
Pennsylvania 55 44 11,805 36^900 1,893
Total Ill 70 22,105 $81,350 3,427
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CHAPTER IV.
THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN.
This body of Christians originated in several separate
and spontaneous movements in 1827-30. The first public
meeting held by them was in Dublin, Ireland. A large
company of them was gathered in Plymouth, England,
whence they are popularly called " Plymouth " Brethren,
a title they do not accept They speak of themselves as
believers, Christians, saints, or Brethren. Division soon
came among them, and they now exist in England in sev-
eral branches. From England they came to Canada and
the United States.
The Brethren accept the Scriptures as their only guide,
acknowledging no creeds, rituals, or anything " which sa-
vors of reason or mere expediency." They do not allow
that ordination is necessary to the ministry. They hold
that gift is sufficient authorization for the exercise of the
privilege of the priesthood of all believers, the Holy Spirit
being the guide. Hence they have no presiding officers
in their public meetings. Woman's sphere is considered
as private.
They accept the evangelical doctrines of the Trinity, of
the sinless humanity and absolute divinity of Christ, and
of Christ's atonement by his sacrificial death, and hold that
the Holy Spirit is present in the believer and in the church,
and that believers are eternally secure. They look for the
59
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6o REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
personal premillennial coming of Christ, and believe that
the punishment of the wicked will be eternal
Their view of the church is that it is one and indivisible.
Christ is the head of it, the Holy Spirit the bond of union,
and every believer a member. It was begun at Pentecost
and will be completed at the second advent
They regard the various denominations as based upon
creeds, an ordained ministry, and separate organizations,
and do not therefore fellowship them. They meet every
Sunday to " break bread," which is the term they use to
designate the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. Other
meetings are held for Bible study and prayer, and, when-
ever occasion offers, for the unconverted. They own no
church edifices, but meet in halls and private houses.
The divisions in England are partly reproduced in the
United States. The last division in this country, by which
the third and fourth branches were created out of the third,
was due to a question of belief. The following are the
branches, the Roman numerals being introduced for the
sake of distinction :
Plymouth Brethren I.
Plymouth Brethren II.
Plymouth Brethren III.
Plymouth Brethren IV.
I. — ^THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN I.
This is the main body of Brethren. They are regarded
as more conservative than the second branch, but less so
than the third and fourth branches. They have 109
assemblies or organizations, with 2279 members, who are
divided among twenty-seven States and the District of
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THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN.
6l
Columbia. As the Plymouth Brethren have no houses
of worship, and consequently no church property, those
columns are omitted, and the table is arranged to show
the number of halls occupied and their seating capacity.
Summary by States.
STATES, BTC
California
Colorado
Delaware
District of Columbia.
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Texas
Vermont
Washington
Wisconsin
Totol
rgani-
Halls,
Seatins
Ca.
Com.
muni-
padty.
cants.
4
4
IDS
49
X
I
90
14
3
3
320
^
I
I
25
8
I
I
150
75
2
2
60
17
s
5
550
158
I
I
100
14
9
9
490
163
I
I
16
6
X
I
25
5
I
I
20
5
I
I
30
24
7
7
|i6
637
119
9
9
192
II
II
850
243
2
2
350
151
I
I
55
9
I
I
80
15
9
.1
770
213
19
1,600
494
I
I
2S
3
2
2
37
5
II
II
572
164
I
I
20
6
I
I
20
4
2
2
40
19
I
I
120
70
109
108
7,423
2,289
2. — ^THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN II.
Those constituting this branch are often called the
'Open Brethren," because they are regarded as less strict
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62 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
in discipline than either of the other three branches. They
also hold a somewhat different view of the ministry, a view
approaching that common among the denominations which
have regular pastors. The column headed " church prop'
erty " represents furniture.
They have 88 organizations and 2419 members, and are
represented in twenty-three States, their chief strength
being in Illinois.
Summary by States.
Arkansas i i
California 4 4
Colorado i i
Illinois 13 13
Indiana 5 5
Iowa 2 2
Kansas 6 6
Louisiana i i
Massachusetts 6 6
Michigan 6 6
Minnesota 4 4
Missouri 2 2
Nebraska 4 4
New Jersey 4 4
New York 8 8
North Dakota i i
Ohio 3 3
Oregon i i
Pennsylvania 5 5
Rhode Island 3 3
Texas 4 4
Virginia 3 3
Washington i i
Total 88 88
Seating
Value of
Com.
Ci^
Church
muai.
pwatf.
Plupaly.
cants.
, , , .
• • . •
3
515
$90
"5
100
....
13
i>35o
250
410
450
250
150
2
800
....
"5
100
20
750
650
274
700
....
170
400
25
95
200
60
....
. • • .
47
700
....
«5
975
100
^'l
175
. . . •
72
....
....
10
600
....
214
200
....
55
300
• . . .
105
260
....
50
100
....
20
8,925
$1,265
2,419
3. — ^THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN III.
These are the strictest division of the Brethren. Their
separation from the Brethren of the first and largest divi-
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THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN.
63
sion some years ago was the result of a controversy on a
point of doctrine and a matter of discipline. They claim
that such divine power is vested in the church, that all the
Brethren are under moral obligation to submit to a decision
rendered by the church, evep though the decision were
regarded as unjust.
They have 86 organizations and 1235 members. Most
of them are to be found in the State of Illinois.
Summary by States.
Oryani. Halli,
California 4 4
Colorado i i
Connecticut 3 3
Florida 4 4
Georgia 4 4
Illinois 9 9
Iowa 6 o
Kansas 6 6
Loubiana i i
Maryland i i
Massachusetts 4 4
Michigan 4 4
MinnesoU i i
Missouri 2 2
Nebraska 6 6
New Hampshire ... i i
New Jersey 5 5
New York 4 4
North DakoU 3 3
Ohio 3 3
Oregon • i i
Pennsylvania 4 4
Rhode Island i i
Tennessee i x
Vermont i i
Virgrinia 2 2
Washington 3 3
Wisconsin i x
Total 86 86
IMcity.
100
200
ICO
100
IS
150
100
80
270
75
100
180
85
2,720
Value of
Chiireli
Com-
$200
40
16
33
32
234
166
79
2
12
59
47
12
18
50
4
76
l^
89
12
57
II
8
2
13
12
4
$200 1,235
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64 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
4, — ^THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN IV.
This branch is due to a difference arising quite recently
among those formerly constituting the third division.
Some held that a second impartation of divine power must
be received before a believer could be said to be in full
possession of eternal life. This view gave rise to various
complications respecting the person of Christ and the con-
dition of the Old Testament saints. Those who refused to
accept this teaching formed new assemblies or congrega-
tions, and constitute the fourth division.
They have 31 organizations, with 718 members. They
are found in fifteen States, principally in California, Ohio,
and Massachusetts.
Summary by States.
OlBMn*
California
Colorado
Geor^
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Maryland
Massachusetts .
Michigan
Minnesota
Nebraska
New Jersey. . . .
Ohio
Pennsylvania . .
South Carolina
Total
6
I
I
a
I
I
3
I
2
a
3
5
3
I
I
31
Hallt.
etc.
6
I
I
2
I
I
2
I
2
2
2
5
3
I
I
31
Ca-
padty.
850
150
300
200
200
75
120
100
100
2,095
137
8
6
28
35
12
67
100
57
37
58
no
718
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THE PLYMOUTH BRETHREN.
65
Summary by States or All Plymoxtth Brethren.
•TATIS, BTC
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nebraska
New Hampshire . . .
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
South DakoU
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina ....
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Total
OtfpjA.
HaOi,
s^
Value of
Chmch
Com-
mimi-
SatKNU.
etc
I»city.
Property.
cents.
I
I
$90
3
i8
18
1,570
341
4
4
390
70
3
3
16
3
3
320
44
I
I
2S
8
5
5
?i^
108
7
7
55
29
29
2,280
aso
830
7
7
700
ISO
128
17
17
1,540
377
14
14
966
212
I
I
35
5
2
2
100
22
I
I
20
5
4
4
330
103
i8
18
1,366
650
552
21
21
1,617
aoo
466
i8
18
1,325
»S
387
6
6
550
229
13
13
25
....
136
2
2
80
....
19
33
23
1,860
100
439
31
30
2,650
....
923
I
I
25
....
3
4
4
....
35
II
II
412
. • • •
276
2
2
• • • .
22
21
21
1,452
....
460
4
4
200
• . . •
66
I
I
• • • .
8
I
I
• • . .
8
5
5
320
....
III
2
2
20
• • • •
6
5
5
260
• • • •
63
6
6
140
....
51
2
2
205
74
314
108
21,163
$1,465
6,661
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CHAPTER V.
THE CATHOLICS.
As this tenn is commonly used, it applies to the Church
of Rome, to the Eastern or Orthodox Churches, and to
the Old and Reformed Catholic bodies, which have lately
arisen. As the result of a controversy beginning in the
ninth century the Christian Church was divided into the
Roman and Greek Churches. The Church of Rome,
which is the more numerous division, is officially called the
"Holy, Catholic, Apostolic, and Roman Church," and
claims to be the only church founded by Christ It has
a hierarchy, including a pope, who is supreme pontiff, a
college of cardinals, and numerous archbishops and bishops.
Its doctrine is expressed in the oecumenical creeds — ^the
Apostles', the Nicene (with the Filioque), and the Athana-
sian — ^and in the decrees of twenty oecumenical councils,
the latest of which was that of the Vatican, in 1870. The
Greek Church, whose full title is " Holy, Orthodox, Cath-
olic, Apostolic, Oriental Church," includes the Church of
Russia, the Church of Greece, the Armenians, and various
other divisions. The Orthodox or Eastern Church holds
to the decrees and canons of the first seven oecumenical
councils, accepting the Nicene Creed without the Latin
Filioque. This creed is its chief doctrinal expression. Its
highest officials are patriarchs. It has besides, metropoli-
tans or archbishops, and bishops. The Uniates are Greek
Christians who have acknowledged the supremacy of the
66
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THE CATHOLICS. 67
pope. The Old and Reformed Catholics are bodies origi-
nating in this country in withdrawals from the Roman
Church.
I. — ^THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH.
The first Christian congregations organized in the terri-
tory now constituting the United States were those of the
Roman Catholic faith. The oldest was established in St.
Augustine, Fla., shortly after that settlement was founded
in 1565. But Catholic services were held on Florida soil
long before that date. Missionaries accompanied the Span-
ish expeditions of discovery and settlement in the first half-
century after Columbus made his first voyage to America,
and these raised the cross and conducted divine worship.
John Juarez, who had been appointed by the pope Bishop
of Florida, landed with the expedition of Narvaez in 1528,
but is supposed to have been slain or to hare perished from
hunger the same year. After St Augustine was estab-
lished many companies of missionaries went out into Flor-
ida, Alabama, Georgia, and Carolina to labor among the
Indians. The second oldest town, Santa F^, was founded
by Spaniards in 1582, Missionaries in connection with
Coronado's exploring expedition preached among the Indi-
ans of New Mexico forty years earlier, but they soon per-
ished. After the founding of Santa Fe missionary work
was more successful, and many tribes of Indians accepted
the Catholic faith. Franciscans established missions in
California in 1601, and French priests held worship on
Neutral Island, on the coast of Maine, in 1609, and three
years later on Mount Desert Island. Jesuit missions, be-
gun on the upper Kennebec in 1646, were more successful
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68 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
and permanent, many Indian converts being among their
fruits. In 1665 Catholics sought to convert the Onondagas
and other tribes in New York. Similar attempts among
the Great Lakes were made as early as 1641.
The history of the Catholic Church among the English
colonists began with the immigration of English and Irish
Catholics to Maryland in 1634. They founded the town
of St. Mary's the first year. Ten years later, as the result
of a conflict with Protestant colonists, their privileges of
worship were curtailed, but restored in 1646. A toleration
act was passed by the legislature of Maryland in 1649, hut
it was repealed in 1654. The Catholics received their
rights again in 1660, to be restricted once more in 1704,
and these restrictions were not entirely removed until the
period of the War of Independence. In Virginia, the Caro-
linas, Georgia, and New England severe laws were enforced
against Catholics for many years. In New York, which is
now the stronghold of Catholicism, there were, it is said,
no more than seven Catholic families in 1696, and the few
Catholics found on Manhattan Island eighty years later
had to go to Philadelphia to receive the sacraments.
In 1 784, at the close of the Revolutionary War, the pope
appointed the Rev. John Carroll prefect apostolic. Be-
fore this date the Catholics in this country had been under
the jurisdiction of the vicar apostolic of London, England.
Six years later Dr. Carroll was consecrated bishop in
London, and Baltimore became the first Catholic diocese.
The new bishop estimated the number of Catholics in the
United States at that time at about 30,000, of whom 16,000
were in Maryland, and 7000 in Pennsylvania. The rest
were scattered over a broad territory stretching into the
west as far as Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois. The church
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THE CATHOLICS. 69
was gradually extended to Kentucky (1787), South Caro-
lina (1789), Ohio, and other parts of the country. It grew
rapidly when immigration set in from Ireland and Europe.
This has been the chief cause of the rapid increase of the
church in the last half-century. In 1807 there were about
80 churches, and a Catholic population of 150,000. In
1820 this population had doubled; in 1830 it had doubled
again. In the next decade it increased from 500,000 to
1,500,000; in 1850 it had become 3,500,000; in i860,
4,500,000; and in 1876, 6,500,000. These figures were
given by the late Prof. A. J. Schem, who was regarded as
good authority in church statistics.
An immense territory was covered until 1808 by the
single diocese of Baltimore. In that year Baltimore became
a metropolitan see, with four suffragan bishoprics — New
York, Philadelphia, Boston, and Bardstown. The purchase
of Louisiana in 1803 had added the diocese of New Orleans,
which had been erected in 1803. In 1846 Oregon City
became a metropolitan see; in 1847 ^^ same dignity was
conferred on St. Louis, and in 1850 Cincinnati, New York,
and New Orleans were erected into provinces. There are
now 13 provinces, the metropolitan sees being those of
Baltimore, Oregon, St. Louis, New Orleans, Cincinnati,
New York, San Francisco, Santa F^, Philadelphia, Mil-
waukee, Boston, Chicago, and St Paul. Connected with
these provinces are 66 dioceses, 5 vicariates apostolic, and
I prefecture apostolic.
The doctrinal system of the Roman Catholic Church is
embodied in the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian creeds,
and the dogmatic decisions of the oecumenical councils
from 325 to 1870. The doctrine of the church is that it
consists of all who hold the true faith, receive the true sacra-
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70 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
mentSy and acknowledge the rule of the pope of Rome as
head of the church. While the Bible, including the books
commonly called apocryphal, is accepted as the Word of
God, the authority of ecclesiastical tradition is honored.
The church is held to be infallible ; the Virgin Mary, the
saints, their pictures and relics are venerated; seven sac-
raments— ^baptism, the eucharist, confirmation, penance,
extreme unction, ordination, and matrimony — ^are admin-
istered; justification is held to be by faith and works
conjoined; transubstantiation and the adoration of the
elements, baptismal salvation, priestly absolution, the sacri-
fice of the mass, prayers for the dead, the immaculate
conception of the Virgin Mary, a temporary place between
heaven and hell for departed spirits, are also features of
Catholic belief. The worship of the church is conducted
in the Latin language according to an established ritual, the
mass occupying the central place in the services.
The government of the church is hierarchical. At its
head is the pope with a college of cardinals. Next in order
are archbishops, who are set over provinces ; bishops, who
preside over dioceses ; and various other ecclesiastical dig-
nitaries, besides the heads of orders, monasteries, etc. In
the ministering priesthood there are two orders — those of
priest and deacon. The governing authority of each dio-
cese is its bishop, who receives his ecclesiastical power from
the pope. The government of the church in the United
States is conducted through the Propaganda at Rome, the
United States being regarded for this purpose as mission-
ary territory.
In the specially difficult task of gathering the statistics
of the churches, chapels, missions, and stations of the vari-
ous dioceses and vicariates, the archbishops, bishops, and
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THE CATHOLICS. 7 1
Other ecclesiastical officers gave cordial cooperation. At
the earnest request of the special agent of the Census Office
they nominated to him suitable persons to do the work at
his appointment and under his instruction, urged those in
charge of congregations to give the information required,
and most of them inspected and approved the final returns
before they were certified and reported to the Census Office
for acceptance.
As the Roman Catholic Church always gives in its pub-
lished annual statistics the number of baptized members or
population instead of communicants, the census appointee
in each diocese was requested to comply with the require-
ments of the census schedules and furnish the number of
communicants, in order that the statistics of all the denom-
inations might be uniform. This was done in every case.
According to information received from bishops, it is the
custom of the church for baptized persons to make their
first communion between the ages of nine and eleven years.
Baptized persons below the age of nine years are not
included, therefore, in the census returns. Some ecclesi-
astical authorities estimate that members of this class con-
stitute about fifteen per cent, of the population of the
church, which, of course, embraces both baptized members
and communicants.
In order that proper significance may be given to the
figures representing the seating capacity of churches, chap-
els, etc., it will be necessary to take into consideration the
fact that in populous places from three to four and some-
times as many as six or seven services, or even more, are
held in the same church on Sunday In most Protestant
churches there are two services only, and in some but one
service. Separate services of the mass in Catholic churches
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J 2 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
are usually attended by different audiences. It may help
to a better understanding of the matter to quote a few
sentences from letters written by heads of dioceses.
Archbishop Elder, of Cincinnati, says :
" The most of our churches have at least two, often three,
and as many as six masses every Sunday, and each is
attended by a different body of worshipers."
Archbishop Janssens, of New Orleans, speaks of from
" two, three, to six masses," and refers to the fact that
many persons stand during service. In the archdiocese of
Baltimore, according to the secretary of Cardinal Gibbons,
there are usually four different congregations on Sunday
in a single edifice. In the archdiocese of Boston there are
five services in the cathedral, which has a conmiunicant
membership of 12,000, and reports 2600 seating capacity.
Archbishop Corrigan, of New York, says the ** same space
is used over and over again by different worshipers at dif-
ferent hours." An examination of the returns for that
see shows that of 77 churches in the city of New York,
I has one service of the mass, 6 have two services, 4 have
three, 12 have four, 17 have five, 22 have six, 10 have
seven, 3 have eight, i has nine, and i has ten every Sun-
day. Of an equal number of churches in the rural part of
the archdiocese, 26 have one mass, 24 have two masses,
I I have three, 4 have six, and i has five every Sunday ;
4 have mass twice a month, and 5 have it once a month.
Bishop McGovem, of Harrisburg, says :
" It is true there are many services in our churches, but
each service is not always attended by persons who were
not at another service. Some persons attend all the ser-
vices. Then, again, in some of the churches many stand
up for want of seats,"
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THE CATHOUCS. 73
Bishop Phelan, of Pittsburg, writes :
" We have in this diocese about 140 churches. In some
there is one, in many two, in some three, and in a couple
even four morning services (masses) every Sunday. The
afternoon or evening services should not count, as these
worshipers are, or ought to be, the same who were present
in the forenoon."
The use made of the accommodations for worshipers is
also indicated by the number of communicants belonging
to a parish. In many cases from 8cK)0 to 15,000 commu-
nicants are reported for a single parish. In one diocese
there is a parish, consisting entirely of Poles, which has
17,490 communicants, who are accommodated in a single
church with a seating capacity of 1900. Here the propor-
tion of communicants to seating capacity is almost as nine
to one. But this is an extreme case. In Baltimore, Bos-
ton, and Chicago it is less than three to one; in New
York, more than three to one; in New Orleans, nearly
four to one ; in Oregon, Philadelphia, St Paul, and San
Francisco, upward of two to one ; in Cincinnati and Mil-
waukee, less than two; while in Santa Fe it is less than
one. The average in the thirteen metropolitan sees is
about two and a quarter to one.
The total number of communicants is 6,231,417, who are
attached to 10,231 oi^anizations (churches, chapels, and
stations), making an average of 609 communicants to each
congregation. Of the 10,231 organizations, 1469, or about
14.4 per cent, worship in halls, schoolhouses, or private
houses, which, exclusive of private houses, represent a
seating capacity of 69,159, while the 8776 edifices owned
by the church have a seating capacity of 3,365,754,
making a total of 3,43 5 >9 13 for the whole church, which
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74 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
is somewhat more than half the number of communicants.
Some of the parishes which have no church edifices, but
use temporarily such acconunodations as private houses can
afford, are very large. One of these parishes reports no
fewer than 14,000 communicants. In eleven of the eighty-
five sees, including the archdioceses of New Orleans, Phil-
adelphia, and San Francisco, every organization has its
own church edifice.
The total value of church property, including edifices,
the ground on which they stand, furniture, bells, etc., is
$1 18,069,746. The average value of each edifice is there-
fore about $13,454. The metropolitan see of New York,
with its 472,806 communicants, has church property valued
at nearly $9,000,000 ; that of Chicago comes second, with
property worth $6,457,064; and that of Boston third, with
a total of $6,379,078. The diocese of Brooklyn comes
fourth, with a valuation of $5,751,907, and Newark fifth,
with $4,297,482. These five sees have more than one
fourth of the entire valuation of the church.
In the distribution of communicants, the archdiocese of
New York comes first, with 472,806 ; Boston second, with
419,660 ; Chicago third, with 326,640 ; Philadelphia fourth,
with 251,162; Brooklyn (diocese) fifth, with 228,785;
St. Paul sixth, with 203,484 ; and Baltimore seventh, with
176,578. There are twenty- two sees which contain up-
ward of 100,000 communicants each.
In the tabulation by States the following facts appear :
there are 959 organizations, with 1,153,130 communicants,
in the State of New York (seven dioceses), and the value
of church property is $25,769,478 ; in the State of Massa-
chusetts (two dioceses) there are 614,627 communicants,
belonging to 381 organizations, with church property val-
ued at $9,816,003; in the State of Pennsylvania (five
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THE CATHOLICS. 75
dioceses), 55i»577 communicants, 654 organizations, and
$10,068,770 of church property; in the State of Illinois
(four dioceses), 473,324 communicants, 688 organizations,
and church property valued at $9,946,819; in the State
of Ohio (three dioceses), 336,114 communicants, 586
organizations, and $7,395,640 of church property. In
these five States there are 3,128,772 communicants, or a
little more than one half of the total for the whole church,
and there is church property of the value of $62,996,710,
which is considerably more than half of the total valua-
tion.
The church is represented in every State and Territory
in the country, including Alaska and the District of Co-
luipbia. It has organizations in every county but one in
the six New England States ; also in every county in New
York, New Jersey, Wisconsin, and other States, and Terri-
tories. In the six New England States there are 1,005,-
120 Catholic communicants. This exceeds the total of
Protestant communicants by more than 240,000. Catholic
communicants exceed Protestant communicants in Massa-
chusetts and Rhode Island, Boston and Providence being
great Catholic centers ; but in the other four States Prot-
estant communicants predominate.
Embracing immigrants from nearly all the countries of
Europe, the Roman Catholic is a polyglot church. Con-
fessions are heard, among other languages, in German,
Polish, Lithuanian, Hungarian, Bohemian, French, Span-
ish, and Italian. In the diocese of Scranton there are
seven Polish, seven German, four Hungarian, one Lithua-
nian, one Polish and Lithuanian, and Italian, besides Eng-
lish congregations.
The average seating capacity of the church edifices is
384, and the average value $13,453.
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76 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
OrfuU Church °^'
Seating
padty.
Alabama 70 43 10,520
Alaska 6 5 500
Arizona 52 22 6,490
Arkansas 47 47 8,580
California 249 243 83,740
Colorado no 94 23,378
Connecticut 148 133 79)444
Delaware 19 16 8,780
District of Colum-
bia 17 17 12,800
Florida 44 33 8, 140
Georgia 64 44 10,746
Idaho |2 22 4)265
Illinois 688 666 235,784
Indiana 311 303 106,202
Indian Territory . 17 8 1,680
Iowa 445 455 138,452
Kansas 367 271 55,730
Kentucky 222 180 62,806
Louisiana 206 184 57,885
Maine 88 70 29,941
Maryland 180 169 60,860
Massachusetts ... 381 324 242,267
Michigan 406 360 131,641
Minnesota 465 404 149,085
Mississippi 6j 60 13,448
Missouri 442 402 138,943
Montana 94 40 8,668
Nebraska 213 179 38,396
Nevada 20 12 3)5oo
New Hampshire . 68 52 23,825
New Jersey 219 191 99,290
New Mexico 317 306 93,770
New York 959 877 480,974 2S,7igA7i i,i53>i3o
North Carolina . . 60 24 4*935 90,262 2,640
North Dakota 115 60 13,615 171,550 26,427
Ohio 586 515 197,813 7,395>64o 336,114
Oklahoma 13 6 1,300 4,300 1,270
Oregon 95 48 1 1,462 290,090 30,231
Pennsylvania.... 654 610 305,014 10,068,770 551,577
Rhode Island 51 52 40,625 2,295,700 96,755
South Carolina . . 66 23 7,425 384,500 5,360
ValiMof
Com.
Church
muni.
Property.
cants.
$602,750
13,230
9,700
559
124,500
19,000
219,100
3,845
2,627,950
156,846
843,637
47,"i
3,093,750
153,945
201,500
11,776
1,015,800
37,593
16,867
225,100
485,123
11,228
70,050
4,809
9,946,819
473,324
3»534,69i
119,100
5,850
1,240
3,872,400
164,522
625,561
67,562
1,800,550
92,504
1,568,200
211,763
597,550
57,548
2,108,670
141,410
9,816,003
614,627
3,671,350
222,261
3,514,325
271,319
321,525
11,348
4,070,370
162,864
184,100
25,149
1,179,160
51,503
88,500
3,955
205,600
39,920
6,050,682
2^2,274
296,755
100,576
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THE CATHOUCS. J J
SuMMA&Y BY States. — CmUnued.
n-„-i rT»,.«.i. Seating Value of Com-
"A'~- 2S^' ^w. Ca. Chufch muni.
is^incCT. pucity. Property. cants.
South Dakota .. . 177 100 19,218 $246,030 25,729
Tennessee 60 36 11,105 434>200 17,950
Texas 263 189 55,925 1,018,800 99,691
Utah 28 12 2,210 68,000 5,958
Vennont 79 77 31,101 866,400 42,810
Virginia 69 44 14,81 1 458,800 12,356
Washington 86 58 11,345 156,050 20,848
West Virginia ... (fj 62 16,229 340,155 15,653
Wisconsin 646 620 189,831 4,859,950 249,164
Wyoming 67 9 1,260 i73>450 7*185
Total 10,231 8,776 3,3^5,754 $118,069,746 6,231,417
Summary by Dioceses.
DIOCSSU, BTC.
Baltimore 174
Boston 204
Chicago 278
Cincinnati 172
Milwaukee 264
New Orleans .... 148
New York 275
Oregon 95
Philadelphia 1 53
Saint Louis 297
Saint Paul 231
San Francisco . . . 124
SanUF6 290
Albany 153
Alton 141
Belleville 95
Brooklyn 109
BufEsilo 156
Burlington 79
Charleston 66
Cheyenne 67
Cleveland 297
rhntvJi
Seating
Value of
Com.
^JMkfmm.
CaT^
Oiuich
muni-
• P««ity.
Piopeny.
canu.
'??
69,99s
$3,078,020
6,379,078
176,578
166
142,209
419,660
271
iij,o65
6,457,064
326,640
164
68,200
3,269,970
132,220
262
93»o"
3,074,230
119,271
148
5o»4i5
i,535i900
181,964
472,806
234
kv:.8,303
«>99-525
48
11,462
290,090
3,388,000
30,231
157
107,667
251,162
267
102,025
2,778,545
123,230
203,484
201
91,180
2,474,435
123
49,805
2,021,260
112,180
289
8c,370
272,055
89,261
124
64,647
3,164,700
130,660
138
40,168
1,216,480
57,285
93
35,994
916,400
228,785
134,518
42,810
"3
73,133
5,751,907
150
72,639
3,403,900
n
31,101
866,400
23
7,425
384,500
5,360
9
1,260
173,450
7,185
250
92,062
2,805,200
155,351
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78 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Diocbsbs. — Comtinwd,
ABCHDiocssBs, Or«BL PkiiH-it Seating Value of Com-
padcy. Property. cants.
DIOCBSBS.
Columbus 117 loi 37>55i $1,320,470 48,543
Concordia 80 46 9,700 108,01 1 1 1,500
Covington 98 62 18,606 380,200 25,793
Davenport 138 136 38,536 1,008,165 47,9io
Denver no 94 23,378 843,637 47, i "
Detroit 185 182 68,139 2,260,000 102,551
Dubuque 303 319 99,916 2,864,235 116,612
Duluth 63 41 9,086 119,375 I3>589
Erie 120 103 36,988 873,300 5i>oi7
Fort Wayne 148 135 42,3" ii376,ooo 45*229
Galveston 106 81 21,325 601,000 36,013
Grand Rapids .. . 161 115 39,652 890,250 72,830
Green Bay 187 181 54,329 991,010 70,665
Harrisburg 61 55 23,673 877,860 26,262
Hartford 148 133 79,444 3.093»75o 152,945
Helena 94 40 8,668 184,100 25,149
Jamestown 113 60 13,615 i7ii55o 26,227
Kansas City 79 77 21,809 828,025 23,626
La Crosse 195 177 42,491 794,7io 59>228
Leavenworth 208 176 38,945 392,800 48,906
Lincoln 96 76 18,774 264,200 22,131
Little Rock 47 46;^ 8,580 219,100 3,845
Louisville 125 119 44,260 1,420,850 66,801
Manchester 68 52 23,825 205,600 39,920
Manjuette 60 63 23,850 521,100 46,880
Mobile 82 48 11,820 ^7,550 16,109
Monterey and Los
Angeles 73 68 19,470 233,690 32,881
Nashville 59 35 11,045 433f7oo 17,860
Natchez 68 61 13,598 322,525 11,427
Natchitoches,... 57 35 7,320 31,300 29,720
Nesqually 86 58 ii,345 156,050 20,848
Newark 1 16 108 >i 63,462 4,297,482 162,802
Ogdensburg 86 83 34*694 836,246 60,579
Omaha 117 103 19,622 914,960 29,372
Peoria 174 164 54,557 1,356,875 63,499
Pittsburg 198 185 78,986 3,307,025 134,976
Portland 88 70 29,941 597,55o 57»548
Providence 86 87 61,265 3,374,500 156,850
Richmond 58 46 15,475 477,500 13,261
Rochester 91 91 45,775 1,907,300 65,670
Sacramento 56 56 15,865 421,000 13,805
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THE CATHOLICS.
79
Summary by Hvxxsi&^-^Contmued.
AKHDIOCBBSS, /v«„s rK.t«.v S««tmg Value of
DIOCESES, ETC ^:^ ^^ ^ OlUtA muoi-
pacity. Proper^. cants.
DIOCESES.
Saint Augustine.. 32 27 6,840 $180,300 13,988
Saint Cloud 73 70 19,408 402,765 199998
Saint Joseph 66 58 I5>i09 463,800 16,008
San Antonio 116 68 26,700 326,500 30,870
Savannah 64 44 10,746 48S9I23 11,228
Scranton 122 no 57y7oo 1,622,585 88,160
Sioux Falls 179 100 19,218 246,030 25,920
Springfield 142 123 1%\\^ 2,358,125 134*872
Syracuse 89 82 41^783 1,712,900 60,112
Trenton 103 83 35,828 i,753-200 59,472
Vancouver Island 65 40 9>7^^ 559
Vincennes 163 168 80 2,158,691 73,871
Wheeling 77 59 175 309>455 14,698
Wichita 79 49 124,750 7,156
Wilmington 41 33 125 259,950 14,251
Winona 98 92 692 517,750 34,248
VICAXIATBS ArOtTOUC.
Arizona 85 44 980 164,300 36,90;
Brownsville 35 35 76,200 26,2x8
Idaho 52 22 980 70,050 4,809
North Carolina . . 60 24 225 90,262 2,640
Utah 44 20 1,355 108,500 7,893
ntEFBCTUSB.
Indian Territory . 30 14 200 10,150 2,510
Total 10,231 8,776 3,365,754 $118,069,746 6,231,417
2.— THE GREEK CATHOLIC CHURCH (UNIATES).
The Greek Catholic Church, commonly called Uniates,
represents a body quite numerous in Austria, Hungary,
and other eastern countries in Europe. This body is in
communion with the Church of Rome, holding, contrary to
the other Greek churches of the East, to the procession of
the Holy Spirit from the Son as well as from the Father,
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8o REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
in accordance with the belief of the Latin Church, but
maintaining otherwise its ancient discipline, allowing the
lower cleigy to many, administering the communion in
both kinds (bread and wine) to the laity, and using the
Greek language in its ritual. The congregations, whose
statistics are given herewith, are not in full ecclesiastical
connection with the dioceses of the Roman Catholic
Church, and are therefore given separately.
Summary by States.
n*..»t rk...,.K Seating Value of Com-
"^ paaty. Property. cantk
Illinois I . . 2,000
Minnesota i i 600 $3,000 450
Newjersey 3 2 740 11,400 1,000
Pennsylvania 10 10 3,888 48,900 7,400
Total 14 13 5,228 $63,300 10,850
3. — ^THE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH.
The fuU title of this body is the " Holy, Orthodox, Cath-
olic, Apostolic, Oriental Church." It arose in the middle
ages from the Filioque controversy, there being a difference
of doctrine between the eastern and western Christians of
Europe concerning the procession of the Holy Spirit The
Western Church maintains that the Holy Spirit proceeds
from the Father and the Son ; the Eastern that the pro-
cession is from the Father alone. The chief governing
body of the Russian branch of the Greek Church is the
holy synod at St. Petersburg. The churches of this faith
in California and Alaska are under the ecclesiastical over-
sight of Bishop Vladimir, of San Francisco, and many of
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THE CATHOLICS. 8 1
them are supported financially by the imperial government
of Russia.
Summary.
^^^"'^^ ■ i»«««lf» 1 1 II 11 ■! I ■!
AMD TBHItlTOKY.
muni-
padty. Froperty. cants.
Alaska. ii 22 2,900 $180,000 13,004.
California i i 250 40,000 500
Total 12 23 3,150 $220,000 13,504
4. — ^THE GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH (GREECE).
This is the national church of the kingdom of Greece.
It is the same in faith as the Orthodox Church of Russia.
It has one chapel in this country, in connection with the
consulate of Greece in New Orleans. This chapel is under
the care of Archimandrite MisaeL
Summary.
Onani. Chuich ^**"« TS"*?^ ^".•
mmm^ -L..MXXT paaty. Property. cants.
Louisiaiia i i 75 $5|000 100
5. — ^THE ARMENIAN CHURCH.
The Armenian Church of Turkey is separate from both
the Latin and Greek Catholic churches. As many Arme-
nians have come to this country, congregations of them
have been gathered during the past ten years in New York,
Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. They have no churches
of their own, but meet for worship in chapels owned by
the Protestant Episcopal Church. Their services are held
in the Armenian language.
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82 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
Con-
cants.
Massachusetts 3 195
New York i 70
Rhode Island 2 70
Total 6 335
6. — ^THE OLD CATHOLIC CHURCH.
The Old Catholic churches in this country are due to
the Old Catholic movement in Europe, with which they
are in sympathy in doctrine and polity. They have a
bishop or archbishop— Vilatte— consecrated May i, 1892,
by a prelate of the Jacobite Church in India. Archbishop
Vilatte received orders in Switzerland as deacon and priest
in 1885 at the hands of the Old Catholic bishop of Berne,
in that city. The Old Catholics hold that the pope is a
bishop simply, but is entitled to the primacy of honor.
They agree with the Greek Church in rejecting filioque
in the Creed, acknowledge seven sacraments, revere the
monastic life, and venerate saints, angels, and sacred icons.
Summary.
ru^..;. r<i...«^k S«ttiiig Vahwof Com-
WATm. SES" ^M^ cT^ Church mmir
nuouB. aomoes. p«city. Property. cants.
Wisconsin 4 3 7«> $i3>3ao 665
7. — ^THE REFORMED CATHOLIC CHURCH.
This body is Catholic only in name and origin. It is the
result of a movement begun in New York City ten or
twelve years ago. Priests of the Roman Catholic Church
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THE CATHOLICS. 83
who had renounced that communion adopted Protestant
doctrines, and entered upon an evangelical wprk, chiefly
among Roman Catholics. There are congregations in con-
nection with the movement in New York, Massachusetts,
Pennsylvania, and Illinois. It has no church edifices.
Summary by States.
etc
pwatjr.
Illinois I I 400 150
Massachusetts 2 2 1,100 250
New York 4 4 1,500 450
Pennsylvania i i 600 150
Total 8 8 3,600 1,000
As the Roman is the chief Catholic body, the other six
branches having in all only 45 organizations, it seems un-
necessary to gfive a table of all Catholic bodies by States.
The totals are as follows : organizations, 10,276 ; church edi-
fices, 8816; seating capacity, 3,374,907; value of church
property, $118,371,366; communicants, 6,257,871.
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CHAPTER VI.
THE CATHOLIC APOSTOLIC CHURCH.
In 1830 and 1831 several Presbyterians in Scotland
and London prayed for a restoration of the " gifts of the
Spirit" Members of the Episcopal Church were at the
same time looking for such manifestations. In response,
gifts of " tongues and prophesyings " came, it is said, upon
a number of people, some of whom were connected with a
Presbyterian church in London, of which the Rev. Edward
Irving was pastor. Mr. Irving was identified with the
movement, and has often been spoken of as the founder of
the Catholic Apostolic Church. But its representatives,
while cordially recognizing his services, do not so regard
him. The spiritual manifestations were "accompanied by
many works of divine power, such as the healing of the
sick " ; and in 1832, after the " reality of the prophetic gift
had been fully established by the experience of almost
three years," the office of apostle was revived, a layman of
the Church of England being the first person designated
by the Holy Ghost to fill it Others were designated from
time to time until the number was completed and there
were twelve. Several congregations were organized, and
in time the movement extended to other countries.
The first church in the United States was constituted in
Potsdam, N. Y., and the second in New York City in 185 1.
The Catholic Apostolic Church accepts the three oecu-
menical creeds — the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian —
84
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THE CATHOUC APOSTOLIC CHURCH. 85
holds to the plenary inspiration of the Scriptures, and also
to the traditions of the church as sources whence the doc-
trine of Christ is to be derived. It regards baptism as an
ordinance for the conveyance of the new or resurrection
life, and the Lord's Supper as a sacrament for the nourish-
ing and strengthening of that life. It believes that the
gift of the Spirit is conveyed by the laying on of apostles'
hands. The doctrine of predestination is accepted, although
it is denied that God's mercies are limited to the elect
In its system of worship the Eucharist has the central
place. It is celebrated every Sunday. There is also a
daily service, morning and evening. A full ritual is used
in public worship.
Apostles, prophets, evangelists, and angels or chief pas-
tors are recognized as constituting a fourfold ministry.
Angels are pastors of local churches, in which there are
also elders, deacons, and deaconesses. Each church is re-
garded as complete in itself.
The Catholic Apostolic Church has 10 organizations and
1394 members. The average seating capacity of its
church edifices is 250, and their average value $22,017.
There are 7 halls, with a seating capacity of 350.
Summary by States.
■TATEfc atiSi Edifices. ^
pMity.
California i
Connecticut 3 i 300
Illinois I . .
Massachusetts i
New York 3 2 450
Pennsylvania i
Total 10 3 750 $66,050 1,394
Vftlueof
Com.
nuai.
Property.
cants.
$800
88
3,250
186
6,500
155
500
70
55,000
822
73
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CHAPTER VII.
CHINESE TEMPLES.
Every Chinese temple is a house of prayer or worship,
but no sermon is preached, no priest installed, no religious
instruction given, and no seating accommodations provided.
There is always at least one shrine, the more frequented
temples having several, so that a number of persons can
perform the usual ceremony, each for himself, without
being obliged to take turns. The worshipers do not meet
in a body, nor is any particular time set for devotions.
When about to enter upon a new enterprise or to take a
journey, or when in doubt concerning any particular course
of action, the Chinese are careful to consult their gods and
patron saints. Every worshiper provides himself with in-
cense sticks, candles, and sacrificial papers, which are
generally to be had of attendants at small cost Offerings
of wine and meat are added on special occasions. The
candles and incense sticks are lighted and placed in their
proper receptacles. If wine is used, it is put in minute
cups scarcely larger than thimbles, and these are ranged in
a row before the shrine. The meat offerings may be roast
chicken, roast pig, or any other table luxury. When
everything is properly placed the genuflexions begin and
the request is presented. If the answer required is a sim-
ple affirmative or negative, the worshiper drops a pair of
lenticular pieces of wood on the floor a number of times and
calculates the answer from the frequency with which each
86
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CHINESE TEMPLES. 87
face turns up. Another method of obtaining responses,
particularly when fuller responses are desired, is by shak-
ing a box filled with numbered slips of bamboo, one of
which will fall out, and then consulting a book containing
numbered answers in Chinese verse.
The interior of Chinese temples is often highly decorated.
The walls and ceilings are hung with tablets having inscrip-
tions in the Chinese character, and there are often rows of
lanterns and embroidered silk umbrellas. Fine wood carv-
ing is also to be seen. The decorations are the gifts of
worshipers.
Most Chinese temples are free to all. No register is
kept of members. Of the four temples in New York City
one, Chung- wa-kung-saw, claims 7000 worshipers ; Chap-
sing- tong, 700; Hok-san-kung-saw, 1000; Lung-kong-
kung-saw, looo. Chung- wa-kung-saw is an organization
in which every Chinaman in New York is supposed to be
interested Chap-sing-tong admits laundrymen only, and
the other temples are supported by those who come from
Hok-san and Lung-kong respectively. A laundryman
from the district of Hok-san may therefore be a member
of three of the temples. For this reason no statistics of
members can be given.
Chinese temples are usually well supported. The rev-
enues are derived largely from the privilege, sold at auc-
tion to the highest bidder, of selling the articles of worship,
which every worshiper must have. Thus the privilege of
selling for the Lung-kong-kung-saw of San Francisco
brought in 1890 $12,365.50, and that for the How-wang-
mew in the same city $3961.60.
According to the returns of population there are 107,475
Chinese in the United States, of whom 72,472 are in Cali-
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88 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
fomia, 9540 in Oregon, 3260 in Washington^ and 2935,
the next largest number, in New York. In view of the
fact that one of the four temples in New York City claims
7000 worshipers, while the whole State has a Chinese pop-
ulation of less than 3000, there would seem to be a large
discrepancy. If that one temple has 7000 worshipers, the
qumber of visitors must be greater than the resident
Chinese population. Doubtless 7000 is the number that
worship in the temple in the course of a year. In other
words, the same individual is counted many times. A
considerable number of the Chinese are members of Chris-
tian churches.
Summary by States.
tTATBS.
California
Idaho
New York
Ornai-
2
A.
Tern,
pies.
41
2
3
I
47
Sbrinei.
178
4
182
VahMof
Chufch
Propoty.
$37,000
25,000
Com.
mUBIr
ctnta.
■ • • •
Oregon
I
47
Total
$62,000
• • • •
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'CHAPTER VIII.
THE CHRISTADELPHIANS.
John Thomas, M.D., an Englishman, came to this
country in 1844, and identified himself with the Disciples
of Christ. Soon after, his views changed and he became
convinced by a study of the Bible that the cardinal doc-
trine of the existing churches correspond with those of
the apostate church predicted in Scripture. He began to
publish his views, and organized a number of societies in
this country, Canada, and Great Britain. No name was
adopted for these societies until the Civil War broke out.
The members applied to the government to be relieved
from military duty in consequence of conscientious scru-
ples, and finding it necessary to have a distinctive name,
that of Christadelphians, or Brothers of Christ, was adopted.
The Christadelphians do not accept the doctrine of the
Trinity. They hold that Christ was Son of God and Son
of man, manifesting divine power, wisdom, and goodness
in working out man's salvation and attaining unto power
and glory by his resurrection. He is the only medium of
salvation. The Holy Spirit is an effluence of divine power.
They believe in the natural mortality of the soul, and that
eternal life is only given by God to the righteous ; that
the devil is the evil principle of human nature ; that Christ
will shortly come personally to the earth and set up the
kingdom of God in place of human governments ; that this
89
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90 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
kingdom will be established in Canaan, where the twelve
tribes of Israel will be gathered ; and that at the end of a
thousand years judgment will be pronounced upon all, the
just receiving eternal life, the unjust eternal death.
The Christadelphians practice immersion. They have
no ordained ministers. Those who speak and conduct
services are called "lecturing" or "serving" brethren.
Their meetings are all held, with four exceptions, in public
halls or private houses. They have in all 63 organizations,
with 1277 members, who are scattered over twenty States.
There are 59 halls, with a seating capacity of 6085.
Summary by states.
•TATBS.
Arkansas
California . . . . .
Colorado ,
Illinois
Iowa ,
Kansas.
Kentucky ....
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Missouri
New Jersey.. .,
New York
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania .
Texas
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Total ....
Oifani-
xaQons.
5
2
2
8
5
4
2
I
9
I
2
I
7
I
I
3
3
4
I
I
63
i- Church
Seating Value of
Ca^ Church
padty. Property.
ICO $500
400 500
200 700
250 l|O0O
Com-
muoi-
cants.
74
16
117
67
%
40
245
4
20
90
92
10
25
60
100
137
7
15
950 $2,700 1,277
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CHAPTER IX.
I. — ^THE CHRISTIANS.
This body, which is commonly known as the Chris-
tian Connection, but owns only the simple designation
" The Christians," had its beginning in the eariy part of
the present century in the union of three distinct move-
ments : one in which Rev. James O'Kelley, of Virginia, a
Methodist, was prominent ; another in which Abner Jones,
M.D., of Vermont, a Baptist, was first; and a third in
which Barton W. Stone, and other Presbyterian ministers
in Kentucky and Ohio, cooperated. These three move-
ments, each independent and unknown to the leaders of
the others until 1806, were alike in taking the Bible as the
only rule of faith, and in rejecting Calvinism. Mr. Stone
and many ministers and congregations subsequently united
with the Disciples of Christ, with which this denomination
is often confounded. They are much alike in many re-
spects ; they have no creeds, taking the Bible simply as
their rule of faith and practice ; they emphasize the impor-
tance of the union of all believers in Christ ; they believe
that immersion is the only true form of baptism (a few
ministers among the Christians also believe that sprinkling
is baptism), and that believers only are its proper subjects,
rejecting infant baptism.
The Christians make difference of theological views no
bar to membership. Holding to the inspiration and divine
91
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92 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
authority of the Bible, they allow every one to interpret it
for himself. They believe in the divinity of Christ and in
his preexistence, and that he made atonement for the sins
of all men. They admit to the communion table believers
of other denominations, and also receive into membership
persons who do not believe in immersion.
In church government the Connection is Congregational.
It has, however, annual conferences, composed of ministers
and lay delegates from the churches. These conferences
receive and ordain pastors, but they can pass no regulations
binding on the churches. There is a general convention
which meets once every four years, called the American
Christian Convention, which cares for the missionary,
educational, and other general interests of the Church.
At the General Convention held in Cincinnati in 1854, in
consequence of the adoption of resolutions declaring against
slavery, representatives of the Southern churches withdrew,
the result of which was the organization of the Christian
Church, South. The two bodies have agreed upon a form
of union, by which each retains its general conference.
There are 75 annual conferences, covering, in whole or
in part, twenty-four States. The strongholds of the de-
nomination are Ohio, where it has nearly 26,000 members,
and Indiana, where it has somewhat less than 20,000. In
all there are 90,718 members, divided among 1281 organi-
zations or congregations. These organizations have 963
church edifices, which are worth $1,637,202. The average
value is $1700, and the average seating capacity 313.
Halls to the number of 218, with a seating capacity of
24,725, are occupied as places of worship.
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TH£ CHRISTIANS.
93
Summary by States.
Oraani- Church
xatioiu. Edifices.
Arkansas 6
Connecticut 3
Illinois 104
Indiana 214
Iowa 54
Kansas 49
Kentucky 41
Maine 60
Massachusetts ... 28
Michigan 40
Missouri 35
Nebraska 4
New Hampshire . . 23
New Jersey 15
New York 120
North Carolina . . 65
Ohio 273
Pennsylvania ....
Rhode Island
Texas 6
Vermont 5
Virginia 23
West Virginia. .. 11
Wisconsin 25
Total 1,281
4
186
^1
IS
28
29
29
12
2
22
15
109
57
247
Seating
Ca.
IMuaty.
650
540
20,239
64,660
9,460
1,665
5,650
7,690
8,325
7,975
4,000
.*75
6,178
4,400
28,710
17,710
83,105
17,060
2,525
3
900
16
4,550
8
1,775
16
3,450
Value of
Church
Property.
$1,600
2,800
63*135
230,925
32,775
8,250
76,380
160,300
62,200
12,791
1,000
62,950
66,700
257,850
23,055
392,500
98,500
48,800
Q,8oo
8,875
4,456
5,955
Com-
muni-
cants.
181
105
5,745
19,832
1,676
2,146
3,451
2,722
1,834
1,627
148
1,522
1,489
7,520
4,896
25,952
3,219
972
118
335
1,390
704
579
963 301,692 $1,637,202 90,718
2. — ^THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH, SOUTH.
In consequence of the adoption by the General Conven-
tion of Christians, held at Cincinnati in 1854, of resolutions
opposed to slavery, and denouncing it as an evil, the
churches of the South withdrew and formed a separate
organization. The Christian Church, South, is in general
agreement in doctrine and practice with the Northern
churches, and it is claimed by some that the two bodies
are now practically one.
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94 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The Southern Church is strongest in North Carolina and
Virginia It has five annual conferences, with 143 organi-
zations, 135 church edifices, valued at $138,000 and
13,004 communicants. The average seating capacity of
the edifices is 341, and the average value $1022. Eight
halls, with a seating capacity of 750, are occupied.
Summary by States.
Mtuvus. CAUM%.«». pucty, Propcity. CSIltS.
Alabama 10 9 4, 100 $59625 687
Georgia 2 i 400 500 97
North Carolina 93 89 30,555 74^650 7,840
Virginia 38 36 10,950 57*225 4,380
Total 143 135 46,005 $138,000 13,004
The two bodies have a total of 1424 organizations, 1098
church edifices, with a seating capacity of 347,697 and
a value of $1,775,202, and 103,722 communicants. Both
are represented in only two States, viz.. North Carolina
and Virginia.
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CHAPTER X.
THE CHRISTIAN MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION.
This association represents, in Christian work in Ken-
tucky, a number of churches, without name, without creed,
and without any ecclesiastical system. Each church is
entirely independent The churches claim to be unsecta-
rian. The first was organized in Berea by Mr. John G.
Fee. The doctrines preached are those common to evan-
gelical Christianity. Immersion is held to be the proper
form of baptism, but is not insisted upon. One hall, with
a seating capacity of lOO, is occupied.
SUMBfARY.
«.A«. OtV^nU Chuich Soring VW«eof Ojm-
■TATl. wrifttiK Edifices. ^^' UJUTCh mtUU*
sanoiw. iMinco. p^dty. Property. cants.
Kentucky 13 11 3,300 $3,900 754
95
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CHAPTER XL
THE CHRISTIAN SCIENTISTS.
Christian Scientists are those who believe that all
ills of body and all evils of whatever nature are subject to
the healing power of mind or spirit
Mrs. Mary Baker G. Eddy, of Boston, Mass., claims to
have discovered in 1866 and introduced in 1867 the " first
purely metaphysical system of healing since the apostolic
days." She beg^ in that year to impart information as
to the principles of the system. Out of this beginning was
developed the Massachusetts Metaphysical College, which
was chartered in 1881. Mrs. Eddy, with six of her stu-
dents, constituted the first Christian Scientist association in
1876. Three years later a Christian Scientist Church was
organized in Boston with 26 members. Mrs. Eddy was
called to be its pastor the same year, and accepted the
position. In 1881 she was ordained. Other churches and
associations sprang up in different parts of the country, and
in 1886 a National Christian Scientist Association was
formed, the first meeting being held in New York City.
There are regular churches, with pastors, in thirty-three
States, and Sunday services are held in numerous places
where churches have not been organized. There are
also thirty or more Christian Science dispensaries. The
organ of the denomination, The Christian Science Journal
(monthly), publishes many columns of cards of practition-
ers of the science of mind healing.
96
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THE CHRISTIAN SCIENTISTS. 97
The principles of Christian Science have been set forth
authoritatively by Mrs. Eddy. According to her state-
mentSy all consciousness is mind, and mind is God. There
is but one mind, and that is the divine mind. This is in-
finite goody which supplies all mind by reflection instead
of subdivision. God is reflected, not divided. Soul is
spirit, and spirit is God. There is but one soul, and that
is God. The flesh is evil, not the soul. Soul is " sub-
stance in truth"; matter is "substance in error." Soul,
spirit, or mind is not evil, nor is it mortal. Life is eternal.
It implies God. Whatever errs is mortal, and is a depart-
ure from God. Evil is simply the absence of good. Evil
is unreal ; good only is real. The divine mind is one and
indivisible, and therefore never out of harmony. Man is
immortal, being coetemal with God. The divine power is
able to bring all into harmony with itself. Hence Christian
Science says to all manner of disease : " Know that God
is all-power and all-presence, and there is nothing beside
him, and the sick are healed." " Sickness is a belief, a
latent fear, made manifest in the body in different forms
of fear or disease. This fear is formed unconsciously in
the silent thought." It is to be dissipated by actual con-
sciousness of the " truth of science " that man's harmony
is no more to be invaded than the rhythm of the universe.
Suffering exists only in the ** mortal mind " ; " matter has
no sensation, and cannot suffer." " If you rule out every
sense of disease and suffiering from mortal mind, it cannot
be found in the body." All drugs are to be avoided.
The only means of cure proposed by Christian Science is
spiritual. Sin, like sickness and death, is unreal. In order
to cure it the sinner's belief in its reality must be over-*
thrown.
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98 REUGIOU^ FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The denomination has only ^ church edifices. Meet-
ings are held in 213 halls, which have a seating capacity
of 19,690.
Summary by States.
STATSS.
California 8
Colorado 4
Connecticut 4
Delaware i
District of Columbia i
Florida 2
Georgia 2
Illinois 13
ChuKOi Seating
Ediiioak
Value of
Ca- Church
pacity. Plupaly.
Com.
muni-
Indiana .
Iowa
Kansas
Maine
Massachusetts . .
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Dakota...
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania . . .
Rhode Island . . .
South Dakota. . .
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Washington .
5
22
2
10
6
10
9
20
3
2
28
I
14
I
3
5
I
2
I
5
I
2
2
Wisconsin 16
300
300
100
650
150
$2,126
900
5,200
300
15,000
150
200
300
365
100
14,000
2,025
814
147
75
3
15
33
40
1,271
640
424
60
499
264
374
650
54
35
1,268
62
155
75
33
3
112
100
40
90
474
Total.
221 7 1,500 $40,666 8|724
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CHAPTER XII.
THE CHRISTIAN UNION CHRUCHES.
This body, which is now called the Independent
Churches of Christ in Christian Union, was organized in
Ohio during the first years of the Civil War. Elder J. V.
B. Flack was one of the most prominent leaders of the
movement, which was outspoken in opposition to the war.
They believed that it had been " produced by an unwar-
rantable meddling both North and South, and great injus-
tice and insane haste on the part of extreme leaders in both
sections." They were opposed to the introduction of poli-
tics into the pulpit, and withdrew from existing denomina-
tions because they could not tolerate what they regarded
as political preaching. Elder Flack declared that he was
persecuted by the ministers and members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, in which he was a pastor. Writing of
the matter some years later, he said :
" We refused to vote in the conference for resolutions
of war. We refused to pray for the success of war. We
refused to bring politics into our pulpit We refused to
join in the ranks that marched on the streets at war meet-
ings. We refused to make certain war speeches. We
refused to prefer charges against members of the church
whom the fanatics accuse of being disloyal We refused
to preside at forced trials of good men who were tried for
political opinions."
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lOO RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
He claimed that on account of taking this attitude he
was severely persecuted, and led to withdraw from the
Methodist Episcopal Church in 1863. He preached to
various companies of men and women after his withdrawal
from the Methodist Episcopal Church ; but the first church
of the new denomination was organized by the Rev. Ira
Norris, at Lacon, 111., late in 1863 or early in 1864. At a
convention held in Columbus, O., in February, 1864, per-
sons representing five different denominations being pres-
ent, the foundation of the new denomination was laid.
The principles of the Christian Union are in brief as fol-
lows:
1. The oneness of the Church of Christ
2. Christ the only head.
3. The Bible the rule of faith and practice.
4. Good fruits the only condition of membership.
5. Christian union without controversy.
6. Each local church self-governing.
7. Partisan preaching discountenanced.
The church claims to be non-partisan, non-sectarian,
and non-denominational. It aims to furnish a basis for the
union of all true believers by making its organization as
simple as possible and by eliminating from its system con-
troversial questions in doctrine and polity. It has 294
congregations, 183 church edifices valued at $234,500, and
18,214 communicants; 105 halls, with a seating capacity
of 14,705, are occupied as meeting-places. For many
years prior to the census of 1890 its membership was esti-
mated at over 100,000 by Elder Flack and others.
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THE CHRISTIAN UNION CHVRCBi^
toi
Summary by States.
Arkansas
Colorado
Florida
Illinois
Indiana
Indian Territory
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Maryland
Michigan
Missouri
New Hampshire
Ohio
Rhode Island ...
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Total
xatioiift.
Chuxch
Edifices.
Seating
Ca.
padty.
Value ol
Plopcrty.
Com.
muni,
cants.
4
...
lOI
12
571
I
. . .
50
6
26
4
21
1,450
7,600
$3,850
25,700
206
1,599
3
130
31
20
6,850
21,500
1,258
i6
4
1,250
4,600
495
5
I
300
1,000
443
I
I
350
1,000
15
8
3
1,650
12,000
436
56
31
13,500
39,050
3,926
2
I
400
4,000
102
I03
94
33,250
114,350
8,002
I
8
I
2
^
3,500
1,400
5?
376
6
190
5
I
300
2,500
264
394
184
68,000
$234,450
18,214
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CHAPTER XIII.
THE CHURCH OF GOD.
John Winebrenner, the founder of this denomina-
tion, which in doctrine, polity, and usage resembles both
the Baptist and Methodist Churches, became a member of
the first Reformed German Church, Philadelphia, in 1817,
and three years later pastor of a church of the same
denomination in Harrisburg. There were four congrega-
tions under his care. Under his plain and pungent preach-
ing a revival of religion began^ the progress of which was
opposed. The opposition continued five years or more,
resulting in a separation from the church. The revival
extended into various parts of Pennsylvania and even
into Maryland, and hundreds of persons were converted.
These persons were organized into separate churches.
Meanwhile, Elder Winebrenner, after a careful study of
the Bible, had changed his views respecting points of doc-
trine and polity. In 1830 he, with Andrew Miller, John
Eliot, John Walbom, David Maxwell, and James Richards,
who were recognized as teaching elders, met in conference
and agreed upon a basis of church organization. The fol-
lowing are the leading principles :
I. That the believers in any given locality according to
the divine order are to constitute one body. The division
of believers into sects and parties under human names and
creeds is contrary to the spirit and letter of the New
102
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THE CHURCH OF GOD. 1 03
Testament, and constitutes the most powerful barrier to
the success of Christianity.
2. That the believers of any community organized into
one body constitute God's household or family, and should
be known by the name of the Church of God.
3. That the Scriptures without note or comment consti-
tute a sufficient rule of faith and practice. Creeds and
confessions tend to divisions and sects.
4. That there are three ordinances binding upon all be-
lievers; namely, immersion in water in the name of the
Trinity, the washing of the saints' feet, and the partaking
of bread and wine in commemoration of the sufferings and
death of Christ
Upon the basis of these principles the denomination was
organized, the first conference being held in 1831.
The conferences of the Church of God, of which there
are several, are held annually, and are called elderships.
There is a general conference or general eldership which
meets triennially. This is the chief legislative and judicial
body. The presiding officer of an annual eldership, or of
the general eldership, is called the Speaker. There are
itinerant and local ministers and exhorters, as in Method-
ism, and the weaker congregations are org^ized into cir-
cuits. The itinerant ministers are appointed to pastorates
by stationing committees of the annual elderships.
The Church of God is represented in fourteen States
and the Indian Territory. Its chief strength, however,
lies in the State of Pennsylvania, where it originated.
Fully one half of its total communicants are to be found in
Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. It has sixteen annual
elderships. There are 479 organizations in all, with 338
church edifices, having an average seating capacity of 342
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I04 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
and an average value of $1902. There are 129 halls, with
a seating capacity of 13,840.
Summary by States.
OifMii* ^uich ^Jjl*
Arkansas 19
Illinois 36
Indiana 44
Indian Territory 16
Iowa 18
Kansas 26
Maine 3
Maryland 21
Massachusetts i
Michigan 16
Missouri 7
Nebraska 9
Ohio 75
Pennsylvania 162
West Virginia 26
Total 479
200
10,725
10,915
1,285
3>275
1,750
Vahieof
^nrch
Finpcity.
$500
41,850
53,500
1,200
13,400
7,300
Com-
577
if495
956
I
33
32
II
10
6
20
10
4
2
66
'^1
338 "5,530 $643,185 22,511
5,800
25,700
8iS
30
3,425
8,300
373
1,300
4,100
231
400
1,900
33a
^575
99,550
375, «5
3,35a
48,580
5'3i*
3,300
10,700
881
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CHAPTER XIV.
THE CHURCH TRIUMPHANT (SCHWEINFURTH).
The founder and head of this body is George Jacob
Schweinfurth, who was bom in Marion County, O., in
1853. He entered the ministry of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church in Michigan, but soon left it and became a
disciple of Mrs. Beekman, who, before her death, which
occurred in 1883, declared herself the " spiritual mother of
Christ in the second coming," and pronounced Schwein-
furth the " Messiah of the New Dispensation." He ac-
cordingly became the acknowledged head of her follow-
ers, and removed the headquarters of the sect from Byron,
nine miles from Rockford, 111., to the Weldon farm, six
miles from Rockford, changing the name of the body to
the Church Triumphant. A large frame house, called
" Mount Zion " or " Heaven," is occupied by Schweinfurth
and a number of his disciples. There are also other com-
panies, each of which is presided over by an "apostle,"
who reads weekly the sermons previously delivered by
Schweinfurth at Mount Zion. There are no rites, cere-
monies, or forms of worship. The single condition of
membership is recognition of Schweinfurth as the " Christ
of the Second Coming " and discipleship.
The Church Triumphant accepts the Bible as the Word
of God, but denies the essential divinity of Christ. He
was a mere man, but passed through an experience in
105
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I06 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
which he was freed from the power and curse of sin, after
which he received the Spirit of God and became divine.
Schweinfurth does not claim to be Jesus of Nazareth, but
to have received the same Spirit and to be equal to him.
He claims to be sinless, to perform miracles, and to be able
to bestow the Spirit on whomsoever he chooses. He also
declares his power over sin, not only to save from its curse
but to save from its commission.
There are in all 12 organizations and 384 members. All
the services are held in private houses with one exception.
Mount Zion being returned as a hall.
Summary by States.
pftoty. Property. cantt.
Colorado i i ... 12
Illinois 5 5 ... $15,000 190
Kentucky i i ... 25
Michigan 2 2 ... 37
Minnesota 2 2 100 100
Missouri i i ... 20
Total 12 12 100 $15,000 384
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CHAPTER XV.
CHURCH OF THE NEW JERUSALEM.
The theological writings of Emanuel Swedenborg, bom
in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1688, died in London, England, in
1 772, led to the organization of the New Jerusalem Church.
Its members are often spoken of as Swedenborgians. He
was called, according to his own words, " to a holy office
by the Lord himself, who most mercifully appeared before
me, his servant, in the year 1743, when he opened my
sight into the spiritual world, and enabled me to converse
with spirits and angels." From that time he began to
" publish the various arcana " or sacred truths, seen by or
revealed to him, " concerning heaven and hell, the state of
man after death, the true worship of God, the spiritual
sense of the Word, and many other important matters con-
ducive to salvation and wisdom." His voluminous religious
works contain the body of doctrine to which his followers
adhere. The greater portion of them consist of the expo-
sition of the spiritual meaning of the Scriptures.
The first meeting for organization was held in London
in 1 783, eleven years after his death. The next year his
teachings were set forth in Boston and Philadelphia, and a
congregation was established in Baltimore in 1792. This
was the beginning of the church in this country. It was
gradually established in other cities and towns, and is
represented now in twenty-nine States, besides the Dis-
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I08 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
trict of Columbia. It has 154 organizations, and 7095
members or communicants, more than a fourth of whom
are to be found in Massachusetts.
The doctrines of the New Jerusalem Church declare that
God is one in essence, person, and nature, manifesting
himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — ^the Father being
the infinite divine essence, the Son the human organization
with which the Father clothed himself to accomplish the
redemption of mankind when immersed in sin, and the
Spirit being the divine power flowing forth into act ; that
the Lord accomplished this redemption by fighting against
and overcoming the infernal hosts which had long enslaved
mankind, and restoring man to spiritual freedom ; that life
is not created, only the forms which receive it, man's mind
and body being organic forms for the reception of life,
which is maintained by the constant conjunction of man
and God ; that man has a spiritual body which is fitted to
receive and manifest the divine forces, and the mind or
spirit constitutes this spiritual body ; that the material
body is only the husk, so to speak, and its death is caused
by man's resurrection from it ; that the spiritual world is a
substantial world, the realm of causes, and exists in three
divisions — ^heaven, the world of spirits, and hell ; that the
world of spirits, which all enter immediately after death,
is the place of preparation for heaven or for hell, according
to the character brought into it ; that the life in this inter-
mediate state is similar to the one in this world, except
that it is not a life of probation, but a life devoted to bring-
ing discordant elements in man's nature into harmony, and
to receiving instruction ; that gradually the scene changes
and men rise to heaven or sink to hell, drawn by the irre-
sistible affinities of their true character ; that hell is not a
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CHURCH OF THE NEW JERUSALEM. 109
place or state of constant punishment, but its inhabitants
have all the enjoyments of which their perverted nature is
capable, living under restraint of penalties which follow
every violation of law; that heaven is a place of useful
activity, in which each finds his appropriate sphere of
action and happiness, and becomes subject to the process
of perfectibility which goes on forever ; that in the Script-
ures there is a spiritual principle or fact corresponding to
every natural act and object they record, a spiritual mean-
ing distinct from, yet harmonizing with and based upon,
the natural meaning of every word and sentence; that
while the books of the Bible were written through various
authors, each in his own natural style, it is nevertheless,
by virtue of the infinite store of truth within it, a divine
book, the Lord himself being its author. This view of the
Bible is one of the chief distinctions of Swedenborgian
belief.
The organization of the New Jerusalem Church is a
modified Episcopacy, each society being, however, free to
manage its own affairs. There are associations of societies,
generally conforming to State lines, and a general conven-
tion composed of representatives of the associations, and
also of a number of societies which have no associational
connection. The service is generally liturgical. A variety
of liturgies are in use in the different congregations or
societies ; the gpreater number, however, use the " Book of
Worship," published by the General Convention. Three
orders are recognized in the ministry. In connection with
each association there is a general pastor, who bears the
same relation to the association that a pastor does to a
society. There are also pastors of societies, and preachers
not yet in full orders.
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no REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The average seating capacity of the church edifices is
236, and their average value $15,755; 70 halls, with a
seating capacity of 7165, are used as meeting-places.
Arkansas
California
Colorado ^ . . . .
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia.
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Wisconsin
Summary by States.
Ormni- Church ^?*»
sa&ns. Edifices. ^^
I
I
400
12
3
750
2
I
40
• • • ■ •
I
200
I
180
14
10
1,895
4
4
950
6
3
495
3
I
75
I
4
3
1,125
9
A
1,215
22
5,025
5
4
975
2
2
250
5
4
800
I
, ,
6
4
800
II
1
1,350
13
1,625
2
I
100
13
4
1,600
3
3
610
3
I
75
I
I
200
I
I
75
2
, ,
Value of Com-
Church tnuxii-
Propertjr. cantt
$55 3
41,500 347
2,500 41
28
12,000 50
93
30
9,000 48
163,700 641
16,500 104
6,200 138
5,000 62
61
33,000 289
44,600 244
368,500 1,684
34,600 163
29,000 80
24,600 309
42
24,500 323
192,900 560
103,500 657
300 45
230,500 774
39,000 130
500 64
4,000 40
500 2
43
Total 154 88 20,810 $1,336,455 7,095
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CHAPTER XVI.
COMMUNISTIC SOCIETIES.
All societies observing the communal life, whether
founded on a religious or secular basis, are embraced in
these returns. Two of the societies are not religious, the
Icarian and the Altruist, but it was deemed best not to
omit them, on the technical ground that they are not or-
ganized to practice a faith, but to apply a social principle.
There are nine societies which properly come under this
head. One of these, the Bruederhoef Mennonite, is omitted
in this chapter because it is given in that on the Mennonites.
The other societies are these :
1. Shakers, 5. New Icaria,
2. Amana, 6. Altruists,
3. Harmony, 7. Adonai Shomo,
4* Separatists, 8. Church Triumphant
(Koreshan Ecclesia).
I. — ^THE SOCIETY OF SHAKERS.
The oldest of all existing communities in the United
States is that of the Shakers, or, more accurately, "The
Millennial Church, or United Society of Believers." Their
first community was organized at Mount Lebanon, N. Y.,
in 1792.
They count themselves as followers of Ann Lee, an
English woman, who was bom in 1736 in Manchester and
III
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112 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
died in 1 784 in this country. They revere " Mother Ann,"
as she was called, as 'the second appearance of Christ on
earth. She was a member of the Society of Quakers, and
in a persecution which arose against them was cast into
prison. While in prison she saw Christ and had a special
divine revelation, which showed her that the only way
mankind could be restored to the proper relation to God
was by leading a celibate life. She came to this country
in 1774 and settled at Watervliet, N. Y., in 1775, and died
there. The popular designation " Shakers " was first used
in England. Those Quakers who joined " Mother Ann "
were noted for '^ unusual and violent manifestations of
religious fervor," and were therefore spoken of as " Shak-
ing Quakers." Hence the term " Shakers."
The Shakers are strict celibates, have a uniform style
of dress, and use the words " yea " and " nay," but not
"thee" or "thou." They are spiritualists, holding that
there is a " most intricate connection and the most con-
stant communion between themselves and the inhabitants
of the world of spirits." They believe, as already stated,
that the second coming of Christ is past, and that they
constitute the true Church, and that " revelation, spiritual-
ism, celibacy, oral confession, community, non-resistance,
peace, the gift of healing, miracles, physical health, and
separation from the world are the foundations of the new
heavens." They reject the trinitarian conception of God,
holding that he is a dual person, male and female, and that
the distinction of sex inheres in the soul and is eternal.
Christ, they believe, first appeared in Jesus as a male and
then in Ann Lee as a female. They worship only God.
Both sexes are represented in the ministry. Religious
services, held on Sunday, consist of exhortation, singing.
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COMMUNISTIC SOCIETIES. II3
and marching and dancing to music. There is little audi-
ble prayer.
There are 1 5 communities of Shakers — 3 each in Ohio
and Massachusetts, 2 each in Kentucky, Maine, New
Hampshire, and New York, and i in Connecticut They
have 16 church edifices, with a seating capacity of 5650,
or an average of 353, and a valuation of $36,800, or an
average of $2300. The number of members is 1728. In
1875, according to NordhofFs "Communistic Societies,"
they had 18 communities and 2415 members. This indi-
cates that they are decreasing.
Summary by Statbs.
rk*«i.: r^M^k Seating Value of Com^
•TATBS. V2^ ^^L <^ ^«^ "*^
HnoDs. aomcei. pgj^. Property. cants.
Connecticut i i 400 $5>ooo 100
Kentucky 2 2 700 1,900 371
Maine 2 2 1,000 S»ooo 100
Massachusetts 3 4 1,000 59800 129
New Hampshire ... 2 2 700 i»5oo 250
New York 2 2 1,100 12,000 575
Ohio 3 3 750 5,600 203
Total 15 16 5,650 $36,800 1,728
2. — ^THE AMANA SOCIETY.
This society calls its organizations, of which there are
seven, "True Inspiration Congregations." The commu-
nity is confined to Iowa County, la., where its members
exist in seven towns. They came from Germany in 1842
and settled near Buffalo, N. Y., whence they removed thir-
teen years later to their present location in Iowa. They
are a religious rather than an industrial community, and
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114 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
are devoted Bible readers, believing that all parts of the
Book are inspired. They hold to the Trinity, to justifi-
cation by faith, to the resurrection of the dead, but not to
eternal punishment. The wicked are to be purified in fire.
They do not observe the sacrament of baptism, but make
much of that of the Lord's Supper, which, however, is cele-
brated not of tener than once in two years. They believe
that an era of inspiration began at the opening of the eight-
eenth century, the Holy Ghost revealing the secrets of the
heart and conscience to messengers or new prophets. The
elders or ministers are guided by the spirit of inspiration,
and the community has at its head some one (at one time
it was a woman) who is under the direct inspiration of God.
There are three orders of members : the highest, the mid-
dle, and the lowest or children's order. They hold relig-
ious services every evening, and also on Sunday, Wednes-
day, and Saturday morning^. The general meeting is held
Saturday morning; the other meetings are mostly for
prayer.
Summary.
a«uwa». jMiuKca. pacity. Property. cants.
Iowa 7 22 2,8oo $15,000 1,600
3. — ^THE HARMONY SOCIETY.
The founder of this society was George Rapp, who was
bom in Germany in 1757 and died in Economy, Pa., in
1847. His followers are celibates, having adopted this
rule early in the present century, and follow the example
of patriarchal rule set in the Old Testament and hold to a
community of property. They are literalists in interpret-
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COMMUNISTIC SOCIETIES. II5
ing the Scriptures, and they believe that the millennium
is near at hand and that all mankind will ultimately be
saved, those who marry being classified with the number
who will have to undergo a probation of purification. They
do not believe in spiritualism. They observe as holy days
Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, and Pentecost They
celebrate the Lord's Supper annually in October. The
town of Economy is described by Nordhoff as a " trim,
well-kept village." The society has one organization, one
church edifice, valued at $10,000, and 250 members.
Summary.
2£S: ^L "^ gSSir £S^
Pennsylvania i i 500 $10,000 250
4. — ^THE SOCIETY OF SEPARATISTS.
The Separatists originated in Germany. They settled
at Zoar, O., in 181 7 and adopted communal life in 18 19.
They were called Separatists in Germany because they
separated from the State church, in the belief that they
could thus enjoy a more spiritual faith. They reject relig-
ious ceremonies. Marriages are allowed but not favored.
They are entered upon by a civil compact, there being no
religious celebration. Their Sunday services do not include
public prayer.
Summary.
aSons. Edificeft. . Uiurch mtuu-
*^™*** pacttjr. Property. canti.
Ohio I I 500 $3,000 200
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Il6 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
5. — ^THE NEW ICARIA SOCIETY.
The New Icaria Society was organized in 1879. It has
no creed but " rationalism founded on observation/' and
opposes all " anti-scientific revelations." Marriage is ap-
proved. The system of rule is democratic. The society
has disbanded since the census.
Summary.
22i SSi "^ ^ 2=£
-«H>w» pactty. Pzopertx. • cants.
Iowa I 21
6. — ^THE SOCIETY OF ALTRUISTS.
The Altruists, like the New Icarians, are non-sectarian.
The principles of the community are thus expressed :
'* It holds the property of all its members in common,
and all work according to their ability and are supplied
according to their wants, and live together in a common
home for their mutual assistance and support and to secure
their greatest wealth, comfort, and enjoyment. It allows
equal rights and privileges to all its members, both men
and women, in all its business affairs, which are conducted
in accordance with their majority vote by its officers who
are thereby elected ; and it makes no interference with the
marriage or family affairs of its members, nor with their
religious, political, or other opinions."
Summary.
f\m^,^ rk»«.i. Searing Vahieof Com-
"•ATE. SESr SSS^ Ci^ Chmch mom-
asiana. Edilices. ^^^ Property. cants.
Missouri i 25
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COMMUNISTIC SOCIETIES. \\^
7. — ^THE ADONAI SHOMO.
This community was organized and legally established
as a corporation in 1876 in Petersham, Mass. At its organ-
ization it had 1 1 members. It came out of the Adventist
movement Its leading principles are faith in Christ as
the Son of God, and a community of goods. All members,
male and female, have an equal voice in matters of govern-
ment and property. There is a common treasury, whence
individual needs are supplied. All labor for the common
maintenance, agriculture being the chief industry.
Summary.
Ghuieh Seiliag VWueof Com-
£^^^ C»- Churdi mum-
pMCity. Piupoily*
Massachusetts i $6,000 20
8. — ^THE CHURCH TRIUMPHANT (KORESHAN ECCLESIA).
The founder of this body is Cyrus Teed. Cyrus in
Hebrew is Koresh; hence the terms Koreshan Ecclesia,
or the Koreshan Church, and Koreshanity, the system of
Koresh. The foundation principle of the movement is the
" reestablishment of church and state upon a basis of divine
fellowship,** the law of which is love to neighbor. It has
three departments: the ecclesia, or church; the college
of life, or educational department ; and the society Arch-
triumphant. As the aims of Koreshanity cannot be secured
where the spirit of competition operates, the life of the
disciples is communal. Celibacy is a fundamental doctrine.
It is held as desirable in order to conserve the forces of
life, and necessary to the attainment of that purity of life
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Il8 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
which issues in immortality. The disciples hope to pass
out of the world as did Enoch, Elijah, and Christ They
have no churches, but occupy 6 private houses. The
property in Chicago, though returned as private, is held
for denominational purposes.
Summary by States.
f\«Lium.«A r^KMaMkU Smtipg Vuue of Cob-
•^^•"^ »^ ^W C«- Chureh mini.
uons. Aoinca. padty. Property. outf.
California i . . 15
Illinois 2 .. $36,000 160
Massachusetts i . • 15
Oregon i .. 15
Total 5 .... $36,000 ao5
Summary by States of All Communistic Societies.
California i 15
Connecticut i i 400 $5,000 loo
Illinois 2 36,000 160
Iowa 8 22 2,800 15,000 1,621
Kentucky 2 2 700 1,900 371
Maine 2 2 1,000 5>ooo 100
Massachusetts 5 4 1,000 1 1,800 164
Missouri I . . 25
New Hampshire ... 2 2 700 1,500 250
New York 2 2 1,100 12,000 575
Ohio 4 4 1,250 8,600 403
Oregon i 15
Pennsylvania i i 500 10,000 250
South Dakota 5 5 600 4,500 352
Total 37 45 10,050 $111,300 4,401
South Dakota is added to give the Bruederhoef Men-
nonite conununity^.
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CHAPTER XVII.
THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES.
The first church of the Congregational faith and order
in the United States came over the sea to Plymouth,
Mass., in the " Mayflower," in 1620. Before the close of
the first half of that century there were in New England
5 1 Congregational churches, besides two or three on Long
Island and one in Virginia
Congregationalism developed great strength in New
England, spreading but slowly over other sections of the
country. In 1801 a plan of union was entered into with
the Presbyterian Church concerning the formation of
churches in new settlements, and under it Congregation-
alists going west from New England generally entered
Presbyterian churches. This plan continued in force until
1852, when it was formally abrogated by a convention of
Congregationalists at Albany, on the ground that it prac-
tically excluded Congregationalism from the country west
of New England. It is noticeable that in the older States
where there are many Cong^gationalists there are compar-
atively few Presbyterians, and vice versd. Since the abro-
gation of the plan of union the growth of Congregational
churches in the West, particularly in Illinois and the yet
newer States of the Northwest, has been quite rapid. Their
antislavery record entirely shut them out of the States of
the South until after the Civil War. Their numbers in that
section are still limited and include a good proportion of
119
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I20 RBUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
colored members, to whose education they have been much
devoted.
The Pilgrims and Puritans, who constituted the eariy
Congregational churches, were not averse to Presbyterian-
ism on doctrinal grounds. Congregationalists and Presby-
terians were in substantial agreement, the Westminster
Confession serving acceptably as the doctrinal symbol of
both for many years. It was adopted by the Congre-
gationalists at a general synod at Cambridge, Mass., in
1646-48. The Savoy Confession of Faith, which is sim-
ilar to that of Westminster, was adopted by local synods
in 1680 and in 1708, and a national council held in 1865,
in Boston, Mass., expressed its adherence to the faith
"substantially embodied" in these two confessions, and
adopted a declaration, known as the " Burial Hill Declara-
tion," affirming the general unity of the church of Christ
in all the world, and setting forth the /' fundamental truths
in which all Christians should agree," as a basis of gen-
eral cooperation and fellowship. In 187 1 a National Trien-
nial Council. was held in Oberlin, O. The following was
adopted as a part of the constitution of the council :
"They [the Congregational churches] agree in belief
that the Holy Scriptures are the sufficient and only infalli-
ble rule of faith and practice ; their interpretation thereof
being in substantial accordance with the great doctrines of
the Christian faith, commonly called Evangelical, held in
our churches from the early times, and sufficiently set forth
by former general councils."
Dr. William Ives Budington, the moderator of the coun-
cil, afterward gave the following interpretation of this para-
graph :
"Any churches recognizing the independency of the
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THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES. 121
local church, and professing the historic faith of Christ's
church, are actually and intentionally embraced within
the fellowship of the national council. The distinctions of
Old School and New School were ignored, and just as much
Arminianism and Calvinism."
According to this, Congregationalism welcomes Armini-
ans as well as Calvinists to its churches. In 1883 a com-
mission appointed by the national council formulated a
confession, consisting of twelve articles. It is of a general
evangelical character.
The polity of the Congregational churches is based on
the principle of the complete autonomy of each local church.
Connected with this principle is that of the fellowship of
the churches. The Cambridge platform, adopted in the
middle of the seventeenth century, declares that " although
churches be distinct and therefore may not be confounded
with one another, and equal and therefore have not domin-
ion one over another, yet all churches ought to preserve
church communion one with another, because they are all
united unto Christ, not only as a mystical, but as a polit-
ical, head, whence is derived a communion suitable there-
unto." The fountain of ecclesiastical power is in the local
church, and not in any association or council of churches.
Each church manages its own affairs. When differences
arise between churches, or between members of the same
church, or between a church and its pastor, they may be
referred to a council spedally summoned, composed of
pastors and representatives of neighboring churches of the
same faith and order. The decisions of councils are, how-
ever, not mandatory, but simply advisory. Councils have
to do chiefly with questions of denominational fellowship.
They examine, ordain, and install pastors, and recognize
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122 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
churches. There are local associations purely ministerial,
meeting for fellowship, and which in some sections assume
the duty of examining candidates for license to preach, the
license being in the nature of a certification to the churches
of the fitness of the licentiate. There are also local and
State associations or conferences of churches and ministers
which hold regular meetings for consultation concerning
the benevolent and missionary work of the churches within
their bounds. The Triennial National Council embraces
representatives of all the local associations and conferences ;
but equally with the local bodies it has no other province
than that of giving counsel to the churches and benevolent
societies.
The Congregational idea of the minister is that he is a
teacher who \s primus inter pares. He is a member of the
church which he serves, and is subject to its discipline like
any other member. The officers of a church consist of one
or more pastors, also called bishops or elders ; and of dea-
cons, who are laymen charged with the administration of
the sacraments and of the charitable interests. Connected
with most churches is a religious society embracing all
members and supporters of the church. The church calls
a pastor, and the society approves the call and fixes the
salary.
In New England for many years Congregationalism
was the established religion. In the colonies of New
Haven and Massachusetts membership in a Congrega-
tional church was a condition of the exercise of the polit-
ical franchise, and the churches in most of New England
were supported by monies raised in the tax levies. In
course of time this system was modified so as to allow
persons to wntribute to whatever church they preferred.
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THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES, 123
It was formally abolished in Connecticut in 1816, and in
Massachusetts in 1833.
There are Congregational churches in all the States
except Delaware, and in all the Territories except Alaska.
The total of members in this country, not including several
thousand converts in connection with missions of the Amer-
ican Board in foreign lands, is more than half a million.
Massachusetts, where Congregationalists were the first
colonists, has a larger proportion of the total than any
other State, 101,890; Connecticut comes second, with
59,154; New York third, with 45,686; Illinois fourth,
with 35,830; and Ohio fifth, with 32,281. Of the total
valuation of church property, $43,335,437, Massachusetts
has more than a fourth, or $11,030,890; Connecticut,
$5,366,201 ; New York, $5,175,262 ; and Illinois, $2,975,-
812. There are only 15 places in Massachusetts used by
Congregationalists as places of worship which they do not
own. There are 62 such places in South Dakota, 50 in
Iowa, and 47 in Michigan. In all, 456 halls, with a seat-
ing capacity of 42,646, are used by congregations. The
4868 organizations own 4736 edifices, with an aggregate
seating capacity of 1,553,080, indicating an average of 328
to each house. The average value of each edifice is $91 50.
Summary by States.
rv»...: r^.,.^1. Seating Value of Com-
•'*™- 2SS: S^ Cy- Chuid. muni.
Maws. JMooccs. poatjr. Property. cants.
Alabama 28 22 5,505 $9i,755 1,683
Arizona 3 3 550 9,500 162
Arkansas 7 5 1,600 20,000 669
California 182 i4o>i 37f773 i»oi4»975 ",907
Colorado 49 38^^ 11,010 377>090 3>2i7
Connecticut 306 383 147,688 5,366,201 59,154
District of Columbia 6 6 3,37© 339»ooo 1,399
Florida 39 29 7,600 73i775 i> 184
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124 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UMTED STATES.
SuMMA&Y BY States. — Continue.
M*AT*fi Oinni- Church
Georgia 73 58
Idaho 5 3
Illinois 302 296
Indiana 55 ^2}i
Indian Territory ... o
Iowa 285 243 j<
Kansas 183 152
Kentucky 8 6
Louisiana 20 11
Maine 240 272^^
Maryland 3 3
Massachusetts 559 &JiH
Michigan 331 299^^
Minnesota 175 152
Mississippi 7 5
Missoun 80 69
Montana 7 5
Nebraska 172 144
Nevada i i
New Hampshire ... 188 226
New Jersey 33 36
New Mexico 4 4
New York 301 324^
North Carolina 20 16
North Dakota 65 38
Ohio 247 252^
Oklahoma 10
Oregon 35 27
Pennsylvania 108 looX
Rhode Island 34 39
South Carolina 3 3
South DakoU 138 80
Tennessee 26 20
Texas 15 12
Utah 14 2
Vermont 198 217
Virginia 2 2
Washington 104 62
West Virginia 2 2
Wisconsin 182 196
Wyoming 7 6
Total 4,868 4,736
Seating
PMty.
15,500
420
I03>036
12,200
Vfthieof
Church
Propntjr.
$75,350
6,400
2,975,812
221,650
Com.
68,081
34,975
1,750
3,825
85,591
1,150
298,910
82,458
37,403
1,150
29,550
1,130
32,019
200
73,346
14,050
625
128,179
3,705
5,955
83,029
1,231,886
485»975
20,200
23,800
1,512,030
71,500
11,030,890
1,533,055
1,114,800
6,975
650,344
38,800
640,204
1,000
1,405,050
655,500
17,800
5,175,262
14,200
81,800
2,044,525
7,500
34,605
19,080
1,100
14,967
4,570
3,250
600
65,112
13,698
750
52,615
1,350
160,200
672,588
905,800
31,350
200,665
106,000
55,300
76,000
1,318,100
7,500
316,230
18,500
1,089,750
44,550
3,880
105
35,830
3,081
127
23,733
",945
449
1,057
21,523
336
101,890
24,582
13,624
210
7,617
345
10,045
50
19,712
4,912
175
45,686
1,002
1,616
32,281
170
2,037
9,818
7,192
376
5,164
1,429
846
460
20,465
156
3,154
136
15,841
339
1,553,080 $43,335,437 5 12,771
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CHAPTER XVIII.
THE DISCIPLES OF CHRIST.
This body, often called also Christians, was one of the
results of the great revival movement which began in Ten-
nessee and Kentucky in the early part of the present cent-
ury. Rev. Barton W. Stone, a Presbyterian minister who
was prominent in the revival movement, withdrew from
the Presbyterian Church, and in 1804 organized a church
with no other creed than the Bible and with no name but
that of Christian. One of his objects was to find a basis
for the union of all Christian believers. A little later
Thomas and Alexander Campbell, father and son, who
came from Ireland, where the former had been a Presby-
terian minister, organized union societies in Pennsylvania.
Changing their views as to baptism, they joined the Red-
stone Association of Baptists. Shortly after, when Alex-
ander Campbell was charged with not being in harmony
with the creed, he followed the Burch Run Church, of
which he was pastor, into the Mahoning Baptist Associa-
tion, which, leavened with his teachings, soon ceased to be
known as a Baptist association. In 1827, after some cor-
respondence with Rev. B. W. Stone and his followers of
the Christian Connection, there was a union with a large
number of congregations in Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennes-
see, and the organization variously known as '* Disciples of
Christ " and " Christians " is the result.
"5
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126 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The leading principles of the Disciples of Christ are, to
quote from one of their tracts: (i) "To restore the lost
unity of believers and so of the Church of Christ by a
return in doctrine, ordinance, and life to the religion
definitely outlined" in the New Testament ; (2) no human
creed, but the Bible only as the rule of faith and practice ;
(3) baptism by immersion of believers only, in which
" comes a divine assurance of remission of sins and accept-
ance with God " ; (4) the celebration of the Lord's Supper
as a " feast of love " every Sunday. The central doctrine
of their teaching is that "Jesus is the Christ, the Son
of God." They hold that "personal trust in a personal
Redeemer " is the faith that is necessary to salvation.
In polity they are congregational. Their ministers are
ordained, but are not, in denominational usage, addressed
with the title " Rev." They have as church officers elders,
also called bishops, pastors, or presbyters, deacons, and
evangelists. The latter are itinerant missionaries. The
churches are united in State and district associations for
missionary work, and there is also a national convention
for home and another organization for foreign missions,
and a Woman's Board of Missions for both home and
foreign missions.
The Disciples of Christ are represented in all the States
but New Hampshire and Nevada, and in all the Territories
except Alaska. In number of members Missouri leads
the States, with 97,773; Indiana is second, with 78,942;
Kentucky third, with 77,647; Illinois fourth, with 60,867 ;
and Ohio fifth, with 54,425. They have an aggregate of
7246 organizations, 5324 church edifices, valued at $12,-
206,038, and 641,051 members or communicants. The
average seating capacity of the churches is 302, and the
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THE DISCIPLES OF CHRIST. 127
average value $2292 ; 1 141 halls, with a seating capacity
of 139,325, are occupied.
In many States no little difficulty was encountered in
the attempt to gather full statistics for the census. The
most competent person in each State was appointed to do
the work, but it was not possible to get returns for all con-
gregations known or believed to be in existence. This
was particularly true of Tennessee, where estimates only,
founded on various sources of information, were possible
for several counties. A small percentage of members in
a number of the States is not, therefore, embraced in the
following tables, which are believed, however, to be the
most complete of any ever before published :
Summary by States.
STAIVI.
Ornni- Ghurdi
Alabama 201 128
Arizona 3 i
Arkansas 265 123
California 89 62
Colorado 31 18
Connecticut 2 i
Delaware 4 3
District of Columbia 2 2
Florida 49 22
Georgia 64 60
Idaho 6 I
Illinois 641 550
Indiana 733 651
Indian Territory ... 82 9
Iowa 403 308
Kansas 352 197
Kentucky 632 530
Louisiana 4 4
Maine 9 3
Maryland 14 14
Massachusetts 4 3
Michigan 73 49
SeiUiBC
Valoeof
Com-
Ca-
Chuicli
inuni-
pMity.
Property.
CIDtl.
30,818
$78,185
9,201
34,785
3,000
7«
106,360
14,385
17,675
291,250
7,433
4,945
151,625
3,400
500
16,000
337
450
4,800
95
1,200
80,000
700
5,150
14,850
i2^
20,805
197,925
300
155,505
2,000
1,145,275
60,11?
219,320
2,805
1,329,370
78,942
3,350
708,100
1,977
83,450
30,988
55,045
468,975
25,200
169,635
1,321,510
77,647
1,000
22,300
202
700
6,100
293
5,200
66,200
1,774
1,700
67,200
777
14,870
160,650
5,788
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128 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Statbs.— Cmi^ifwAfl
Orpm-
Minnesota
37
Ill
Missouri ~.« 1,120
13
.... 100
Montana .
Nebraska
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon .
4
41
186
I
475
9
74
Pennsylvania 125
Rhode Island i
South Carolina 50
South DakoU 15
Tennessee 322
Texas 536
Utah 2
Vermont 2
Virginia 161
Washington 86
West Virginia 85
Wisconsin 24
Wyoming 2
Cbuich
Sg^
Valneof
Chinch
COIB.
i«city.
Property.
cants.
29
5,070
$73,000
i,9»7
' ^
12,675
55,422
5.729
830
263,280
1,632,531
"■m
9
1,789
58,800
83
22,660
269,375
7,715
36
11,810
363,650
4,316
136
38,520
71,157
12,437
20
446
138,778
1,462,250
54,425
a
300
500
265
40
10,950
33,785
76,700
4.067
lOI
533, U7
12,007
1
37
8,^
3,000
10,200
.,^
6
1,350
10,800
490
245
80,510
410,660
41,125
267
78,370
467,900
41,859
....
270
2
45,228
5,000
263
148
240,929
14.100
29
7,150
93,400
5,816
51
16,709
92,292
5,807
18
5,825
30,300
1,317
.. . .
48
Total 7,246 5,324 1,609,452 $12,206,038 641,051
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CHAPTER XIX.
THE DUNKARDS.
The Dunkards, or German Baptists, or Brethren, are of
German origin, and trace their beginning back to Alexan-
der Mack, of Schwartzenau, Germany. Early in the eight-
eenth century Mack and several others formed a habit of
meeting together for the study of the New Testament.
They were convinced that its doctrines and principles of
church order were not being faithfully followed, either by
the Lutheran or the Reformed Church. They therefore
resolved to form a society of their own. Alexander Mack
was chosen as their pastor. Persecution soon arose, and
they were scattered. In 1719 most of them got together
and came to the United States, settling in Pennsylvania,
where their first church was organized about 1723. Like
the Mennonites, they chose Germantown, where Christian
Saur, one of their number, edited and printed the first
German Bible in America, the unbound sheets of which
were used by the British soldiers to litter their horses after
the battle of Germantown, in the Revolutionary War.
Later a number of these sheets were gathered up and
several volumes were made of them, some of which are
still in existence.
The Dunkards were an earnest and devout people, en-
deavoring to shape their lives according to the teachings
of the New Testament, and they increased quite rapidly,
129
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I30 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
drawing their converts, of course, from the German ele-
ment One of their most important principles is noncon-
formity to the world They have sought, while living in
the midst of the world, to preserve a simple, unostenta-
tious life, ignoring the fashions and the customs of society
in dress, in household furnishing, and in general mode of
life. Through a long course of years this subject occupied
more or less attention at every Annual Meeting. Bishops
and heads of families were exhorted to be careful that they
and their households set a good example in rejecting the
"high fashions" of the times. As early as 1822 it was
decided that with those who should continue to disregard
the rule of nonconformity after the third admonition the
Brethren should not break bread. In 1840 complaint was
heard at the Annual Meeting of the increase of the " evil "
of conformity to the world. Some Brethren, it was said,
conform too much to the world in " building, house-furni-
ture, apparel, etc., and even in sleighing have bells upon
their horses." Five years later a solemn warning was
given against "fashionable dressing, building and orna-
menting houses in the style of those high in the world,"
as an " alarming and dangerous evil." In 1846 the over-
seers of churches were instructed to see that members did
not have paintings, carpets, fine furniture, or fine houses.
Much attention was given at the various Annual Meetings
to the fashions of women. In 1862 they were forbidden
to wear " hoops " and bonnets, and enjoined never to be
without the cap, or prayer-covering, in church worship.
Among the queries sent up in later years was one asking
whether it was lawful for Brethren to establish or patronize
high-schools. The reply was that Brethren should not
mind high things but condescend to men of low estate.
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THE DUNKARDS. 131
The Brethren, however, continued to maintain a high-
school, and have even established colleges. Despite their
utmost care, innovations crept in gradually among them ;
carpets, musical instruments, gold watches, and other for-
bidden articles found their way g^radually into use, and the
cut and character of their garments were changed. Their
discipline became insensibly relaxed, and the differences
between them and their neighbors of other denominations
were less striking. The result was that the more conserv-
ative, rallying against these innovations and insisting upon
adherence to the old rules of discipline, found themselves
strongly opposed by the more progressive element, and a
division occurred about ten years ago. As the outcome
of this division there are three branches, known as the
Conservative, the Progressive, and the Old Order Brethren.
There is, besides, a fourth called the Seventh-Day Baptist,
German. This was due to a secession from the Dunkards,
led by Conrad Beissel, in 1 728. Beissel and his disciples
observed the seventh day of the week as the Sabbath, and
adopted a communal life.
On the general doctrines of the evangelical faith the
Brethren are in harmony with other Protestant churches.
They interpret the Scriptures literally, and hold that un-
questioning obedience should be given to both letter and
spirit. They agree with the Baptists in holding that im-
mersion is the only proper form of baptism, and that believ-
ers are the only proper subjects of the ordinance. They
do not practice infant baptism. The ordinance is adminis-
tered to candidates in a kneeling position. They are dipped
thrice, once at the mention of each name of the Trinity in
the baptismal formula. They are dipped forward instead
of backward, contrary to the usual custom of immersion.
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132 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
One reason given for dipping forward is that when Christ
died upon the cross his head fell forward on his breast
Immediately after the third immersion the administrator
lays his hands upon the candidate's head and offers prayer.
Endeavoring to follow all the customs as well as the
commandments of the New Testament, the Dunkards hold
communion in the evening. It is preceded by the feast
of love, or the agapcB of the Greeks. After partaking of
a full meal, which is served at tables, the bread and wine
of the sacrament are administered. In connection with
this they extend the right hand of fellowship to one another
and exchange the kiss of charity. This part of the service
is observed separately by the sexes. Before the supper is
eaten the ceremony of washing one another's feet is per-
formed, the brethren observing it among themselves and
the sisters doing likewise.
The ministry consists of bishops or elders, ministers, and
deacons, all of whom are elected by the congregations.
Deacons are advanced to be ministers, nfiinisters are ad-
vanced to the second degree, and bishops or elders are
elected from the list of ministers of the second degree.
Ministers are chosen from the body of the brethren. In
most cases they receive nothing for their services.
The polity of the Dunkards is partly Congregational and
partly Presbyterian. Their chief ecclesiastical body is the
Annual Meeting or Conference, whose decisions are con-
sidered binding upon district conferences and churches.
Questions in doctrine and usage are sent from the district
conferences to the Annual Meeting, which returns replies,
generally with a Scriptural quotation to indicate the au-
thority on which the replies are based. Each district con-
ference sends to the Annual Meeting one bishop and one
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THE DUNKARDS. 133
delegate. The bishops compose the Standing Committee
of the conference. This Standing Committee provides for
the organization of the meeting by choosing officers and
bringing the business before the meeting in the proper
shape for action; and also appoints committees in cases
of difficulty in local churches. After the division changes
were made in the manner of holding the Annual Meeting
in each branch except the Old Order.
The Brethren hold not only to the principle of noncon-
formity but also to that of nonresistance, and earnestly
protest against secret societies. Their ministers are not
trained men, but pursue their ordinary business avocations
during the week, preaching on Sundays and other occa-
sions, as require^. There are four branches, as follows :
1. Conservative.
2. Progressive.
3. Old Order.
4. Seventh-Day, German.
I. — THE CONSERVATIVE BRETHREN.
The Conservatives constitute the largest branch of the
Dunkards. The division occurred, as already stated, as
the result of a disagreement concerning the enforcement
of discipline in matters of conformity. The Conservatives
found themselves between two fires. On the one hand,
there were quite a number of Brethren who demanded
more liberty in the matter of the wearing of dress, and in
other customs which had hitherto been frowned upon. On
the other hand, there was a body of Brethren who insisted
upon a rigorous enforcement of the prohibitions against
the adoption of modem dress and modem customs. It
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134 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
was the policy of the Conservatives to deal leniently with
those who wanted more liberty, and to conciliate, if pos-
sible, those who wanted a more rigorous enforcement ol
the discipline. The Old Order Brethren, however, felt
that the Progressive Brethren had already departed from
the ancient order of the church. The principle of dress as
held by the Conservatives was that plainness, modesty, and
economy in dress is a gospel principle, and that to retain
the form of plainness was to insure the retention of the
principle of plainness. The Progressive Brethren believed
in the principle of plainness, but declared that there was
no merit in adhering to a particular form of plainness.
The Progressives, therefore, became a distinct branch.
One of the points of disagreement between the Conserv-
atives and the Old Order Brethren was that of the in-
troduction of Sunday-schools. The Old Order Brethren
stoutly opposed this as an innovation, while the Conserva-
tives held that it was simply an application of the principle
of the fathers that the children should be religiously edu-
cated. The Old Order Brethren were likewise opposed
to educational institutions. The Conservatives say on
this point that the fathers themselves, if they were now
living, would be favorable to Sunday-schools and high-
schools, and also to missionary work. This, then, is the posi-
tion of the Conservative body. They are in favor of retain-
ing the principle of nonconformity to the world, but of not
enforcing it so rigorously as was done twenty-five or fifty
years ago. They believe in Sabbath-schools and mission-
ary work, and also in educating their own people. They
are represented in twenty-eight States and two Territories^
being strongest in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Ohio, where
more than one half of their communicants are found. There
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THE DUNKARDS.
135
are 1 80 halls, with a seating capacity of 15,048. The
average value of the houses of worship is $1313, and the
average seating capacity 414.
SuMiiARY BY States.
•TATBS. 9"!^
Arkansas 4
California 3
Colorado i
Florida i
Idaho I
Illinois 55
Indiana 107
Indian Territory ... 1
Iowa 53
Kansas 62
Kentucky i
Louisiana i
Maryland 39
Michigan 12
Minnesota 2
Missouri 32
Nebraska 28
New Jersey 3
North Carolina 9
Ohio 95
Oklahoma 2
Oregon 6
Pennsylvania 10 1
South DakoU 4
Tennessee 19
Texas 6
Virginia 42
Washington 3
West Virginia 33
Wisconsin 5
Total 720
^^ "^^ ^i;^ S5:
padty. Property. cants.
1 400 $300 78
2 375 2,200 211
I 300 1,200 no
I 200 600 41
1 200 1,000 40
59 22,850 96,860 3,701
129 58,565 179*870 10,224
• - , 27
37J^ 14,125 49,505 2,760
34 13,150 53,425 3,228
10
17
39?i 15,825 60,200 2,446
II 3,728 11,425 560
2 600 1^500 104
26 9,670 23,025 1,845
10 3^650 14,500 998
3 950 5,000 191
5 1,625 2,000 510
127^ 50,620 153,365 8,490
46
4 1,600 4,400 250
224A 94,738 354,008 14,194
102
16 7,450 11,700 1,249
I 150 300 95
87 40,635 73,523 6,659
26
32 12,180 21,635 2,710
170
854 353,586 $1,121,541 61,101
2. — THE PROGRESSIVE BRETHREN.
The reasons for the division which resulted in the for-
mation of this branch of the Dunkards have already been
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136 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
given. They constitute the most advanced section of
the body of Dunkards. Their rules respecting noncon-
formity to the world are far less ^rict than those of the
Conservatives. They call themselves simply Brethren, or
The Brethren, and do not wish to be known as Dunkards.
The number of their communicants is but a little more
than one eighth of that of the Conservatives. They
occupy 37 halls, which have a seating capacity of 4455.
The average value of their edifices is $1521, and the aver-
age seating capacity 342.
Summary by States.
Plintwh
Sm6at
Vahwef
Con.
IfilifiraM
cZr
Chmdi
mimL
PKkr.
PiapaMy.
caati.
X
ISO
$350
72
17
3%
1,300
7,500
33,630
193
HU
S.875
i>479
4
i>425
6,850
601
3
7«S
5,400
507
5
1,400
3,600
200
S
1,570
5,850
240
I
....
90
4?i
1.950
8,900
396
nyi
7,000
30,700
1,542
I
200
200
20
28
«,33S
50,400
2,008
3 ^
1,300
2,450
397
aH
1,350
2,050
327
■TATBS.
California 2
Colorado i
Illinois 4
Indiana 22
Iowa 7
Kansas 16
Maryland i
Michigan 6
Missouri 3
Nebraska 5
Ohio 27
Oregon i
Pennsylvania 23
Virginia 4
West Virginia 6
Total 128 96 32,740 $145,770 8,089
3. — ^THE OLD ORDER BRETHREN.
This is the smallest of the three branches into which the
Dunkards were divided about ten years ago. The Old
Order Brethren aim to prohibit conformity to the fashions
of the world as rigorously as did the fathers fifty years
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THE DUNKARDS, 1 37
ago. They are opposed to Sunday-schools, missionary
endeavor, and high-schools or colleges. The census au-
thorities had much difficulty in getting returns from them.
They were opposed to the numbering of their people for
Scriptural reasons, and refused in many cases to give in-
formation, which was otherwise obtained. There are 62
halls, with a seating capacity of 2330, occupied as places
of worship. The average value of the church edifices is
$1279, average seating capacity 408.
Summary by States.
"^"•' t3^ v^i^ C«- Chureh nuni.
Arkansas i 4
California i 7
Illinois 12 3 735 $970 225
Indiana 21 wyi 5,050 16,400 647
Iowa 9 \yi 800 2,600 100
Kansas 13 3 1,200 2,800 332
Kentucky i 3
Maryland 6 2 1,200 3iOOO 328
Michigan 3 i 150 200 44
Missouri 9 2 200 1,600 155
Nebraska 4 i 350 600 47
North Carolina 1 15
Ohio 31 28 10,825 449OOO 1,760
Oregon i 10
Pennsylvania 4 5 2>90O 5fOOo 311
Virginia 4 3 1,400 2,500 188
West Virginia 12 2 950 1,100 179
Wisconsin i 29
Wyoming i 21
Total 135 (^i 25,750 $80,770 4i4ii
4. — ^THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS, GERMAN.
This is the oldest secession from the body of Dunkards.
As already stated, Conrad Beissel founded it in 1728.
Only a very few members are now reported. These ob-
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138 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
serve the seventh day as the Sabbath, and some features
of the cx>mmunal life. They are found in Bedford, Frank-
lin, Lancaster, and Somerset counties, Pa.
Summary.
STATB.
Pennsylvania
6 3 1,960
Value of
Chiudi
Property*
Com-
$14,550 194
Summary by States of All Dunkards.
Arkansas
California ,
Colorado'. ,
Florida
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Indian Territory ,
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nebraska
New Jersey
North Carolina . .
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania . . . .
South Dakota . . ,
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia . . ,
Wisconsin
Wyoming .......
I
3
I
I
71
150
I
68
91
I
2
I
I
I
156
43
40
400
525
300
200
200
24,775
69,490
16,350
15,135
$300
2,450
1,200
600
1,000
101
21
58,955
61,625
I
36
47
18,425
65,800
21
17
17,475
2
2
600
1,500
44
29
10,070
24,625
37
16
5,950
24,000
3
3
950
5,000
10
5
1,625
2,000
153
2
8
^n
68,445
228,065
5
1,800
4,600
134
261
107,933
423,958
4
^?
16
7,450
11,700
6
I
150
300
50
93
43,335
78,473
3
I
'38
14,480
* 24,785
82
290
127
41
40
4,119
12,350
27
3,470
4,067
13
17
2,974
844
104
2,090
1,441
191
525
11,798
46
280
16,707
102
1,249
95
''^
3,216
199
21
Total 989 1,016 414,036 $1,362,631 73,795
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CHAPTER XX.
THE EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION.
Jacob Albright, originally a Lutheran, bom in 1759,
was the founder of the Evangelical Association. Near the
close of the last century he became an earnest revival
preacher. He labored among the German-speaking popu-
lation, and in 1800 formed a society of converts in Penn-
sylvania for "social prayer and devotional exercises" every
Sunday and every Wednesday night. This was the rise
of the movement which resulted in the Evangelical Asso-
ciation. The first conference was held in 1807. This
conference elected Jacob Albright a bishop. Two years
later a church discipline very similar to that of the Metho-
dist Episcopal Church was published. Some years after
the death of Bishop Albright (1808) the name Evangelical
Association of North America was adopted. Previously
to this his followers had been known as " The Albright
People," or "The Albrights."
In doctrine and polity the Evangelical Association is
Methodist. It has annual conferences, a quadrennial gen-
eral conference, which is the supreme legislative and judi-
cial body, quarterly conferences, presiding elders, and an
itinerant and a local ministry, exhorters, class leaders, etc.
It also has bishops, who, however, are not elected for life,
but for a term of four years. Its Articles of Faith, twenty-
one in number, are the same in substance and almost the
same in language as the twenty-five articles of the Metho-
139
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I40 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
dist churches, with a few omissions. Formerly the con-
stituency of the church was almost entirely German ; now
it is largely English.
The Evangelical Association has twenty-six annual con-
ferences. Four of the conferences are in other lands : one
in Canada, one in Germany, one in Switzerland, and one
in Japan.
The church is in a divided state. In October, 1891,
two bodies, each claiming to be the legal general confer-
ence, were held, one in Indianapolis, the other in Phila-
delphia, and each elected a different set of bishops and
general church officers. The differences are of long stand-
ing. They were augmented in the application in 1890 and
1 89 1 of disciplinary processes to the three bishops of the
Association, all of whom were tried and suspended. The
Philadelphia General Conference took order restoring
Bishop Dubs to his functions. That of Indianapolis, rep-
resenting the majority, declared the proceedings against
Bishops Esher and Bowman void. The secular courts have
been appealed to in various cases, and have decided gen-
erally in favor of the Indianapolis Conference. The church
was divided into two bodies in 1894.
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THE EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION.
141
Summary by States.
Or|puu- Church
California 13 10
Colorado 3 i
Florida 2 4
Illinois 134 132
Indiana 124 104^
Iowa 188 147
Kansas 96 50
Kentucky 3 3
Maryland 14 14
Michigan 134 97
Minnesota 134 89
Missouri 26 20
Nebraska 81 47
New Jersey 10 10
New York 86 8o>i
North Dakota 31 10
Ohio 216 2i$}i,
Oregon 25 24
Pennsylvania 662 627 >^
South Dakota 74 15
Texas 8 7
Washington 7 6
West Virginia 15 13
Wisconsin 224 172
Total 2^310 i>899
Seating Value of
Ca- Church
pactty. Property.
2,350
150
3S>a»
30,445
30,910
10,060
850
5.800
22,775
17,165
6,750
8,935
2,675
18,870
60,835
3,300
178,750
2,280
1,400
1,200
2,825
33,525
$72,100
1,600
2,000
438,500
214,390
299,235
85,600
16,000
123,900
188,450
170,550
39.700
86,100
S9i25o
401,850
21,100
491,975
63,900
1,590,605
20,450
22,950
14,900
5,475
355,100
Com-
muiii>
canti.
472
87
69
10,934
6,738
9,761
4,459
213
1,743
6,677
6,181
1,102
3,458
6,222
784
14,673
1,199
42,379
1,628
296
565
12,553
479,335*4,785,680 133,313
Summary by Conferences.
Atlantic 30 30
California 13 10
Ceni Pennsylvania. 259 253 >^
Dakota 1 1 1 25
Des Moines 77 61
East Pennsylvania. . 218 2i8>i
Erie 49 47
Illinois 100 105
Indiana 132 1 13^
Iowa 108 83
Kansas 115 71
Michigan 145 108
9,625
$317,250
2,903
2,350
72,100
472
76,900
487,315
15,616
4,315
14,620
41,550
2,512
117,500
4,592
59,790
778,265
17,899
12,775
211,400
3,996
30,200
397,250
9,570
33,470
228,265
7,140
15,740
178,135
5,069
16,860
124,900
5'533
25,275
205,700
7,386
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142 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Confbrxncxs.— CVwfA'ff».<K/.
Minnesota 128
Nebraska 61
New York 71
Ohio 138
Oregon 32
Pittsburg 208
Platte River 30
South Indiana 44
Texas 8
Wisconsin 227
Total 2,310
Chun* S«^
Edifices. .
paaty.
«9
17,165
M
5»45o
66
15,370
140
38>835
30
4,500
178
48,735
13
44
i:S
7
1,400
173
33.575
Value of
Com.
Church
moiu-
Property.
cantt.
$170,550
6,081
64,950
2,126
262,250
5,295
293,600
»>999
78,800
1,650
263,300
9,738
23,150
1,447
89,300
2,341
22,950
296
357,200
12,652
1,899 479,335 $4,785,680 133,313
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CHAPTER XXL
THE FRIENDS.
The Friends, or Quakers, as they are often called, own
as their founder George Fox, an Englishman, bom in Dray-
ton, Leicestershire, in 1624. He began to preach experi-
mental holiness of heart and life in 1647. He had large
congregations, and in 1656 was assisted by sixty ministers.
The first general meeting of Friends was held in London
in 1668, the second in 1672. The Yearly Meeting was
established in 1678. Encountering much opposition and
severe persecution in England, many Friends emigrated to
this country. A few arrived at Boston in 1656, whence
they were subsequently scattered by persecution; many
came to New Jersey and Pennsylvania after 1674.
The first Yearly Meeting in America is believed to have
been held in Rhode Island in 1661. George Fox met
with it in 1672, and in 1683 it was set off from the Lon-
don Yearly Meeting. It was held regularly at Newport
until 1878. Since that date it has alternated between
Newport and Portland, Me. Yearly Meetings were organ-
ized in Maryland in 1672, in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
in 168 1, in North Carolina in 1708, and in Ohio in 181 2.
The Friends have no creed, no liturgy, and no sacra-
ments. They believe in a spiritual baptism and a spiritual
communion, and hold that the outward rites are unnec-
essary. They accept the Old and New Testaments as a
143
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144 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
divine revelation, and in general the doctrine of the atone-
ment by Christ and sanctification by the Holy Spirit
Belief in the " immediate influence of the Holy Spirit " is
pronounced by President Chase, of Haverford College, the
most distinctive feature of their faith. They believe in the
guidance of the Holy Spirit in worship and all religious
acts. Periods of silence occur in their meetings, when no
one feels called upon to speak, and when each worshiper
is engaged in communion with God and inward acts of
devotion. The Friends believe that a direct call to the
ministry comes to persons old or young or of either sex.
Those who, after a sufficient probation, give evidence of
a divine call are acknowledged as ministers, and allowed
seats at the head of the meeting. Besides ministers, there
are in the local meetings or congregations, elders of both
sexes, who are appointed by Monthly Meetings, and who
advise the ministers, and, if necessary, admonish them.
Their societies or congregations are usually called meet-
ings, and their houses of worship meeting-houses. There
are Monthly Meetings, embracing a number of local meet-
ings. They deal with cases of discipline, accept or dissolve
local meetings, and are subordinate to Quarterly Meetings,
to which they send representatives. Quarterly Meetings
hear appeals from Monthly Meetings, record certificates of
ministers, and institute or dissolve Monthly Meetings. The
highest body is the Yearly Meeting. No Quarterly Meet-
ing can be set up without its consent It receives and
determines appeals from Quarterly Meetings, and issues
advice or extends care to subordinate meetings.
The Friends are divided into four bodies, popularly dis-
tinguished as (i) Orthodox, (2) Hicksite, (3) Wilburite,
and (4) Primitive.
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THE FRIENDS. I45
I.-— THE FRIENDS (ORTHODOX).
These constitute by far the most numerous branch. In
1887, at a General Conference held in Richmond, Ind.,
they adopted a " Declaration of Christian Doctrine/' as an
expression of '' those fundamental doctrines of Christian
truth that have always been professed by our branch of
the Church of Christ'' This declaration sets forth the
evangelical view of the Trinity, the Scriptures, the fall of
man, justification and regeneration, the resurrection and
the final judgment, the issues of which are eternal In
the article on the Holy Spirit these sentences appear :
" We own no principle of spiritual light, life, or holiness,
inherent by nature in the mind or heart of man. We
believe in no principle of spiritual light, life, or holiness,
but the influence of the Holy Spirit of God, bestowed on
mankind, in various measures and degrees, through Jesus
Christ our Lord."
The article on public worship recognizes " the value of
silence, not as an end, but as a means toward the attain-
ment of the end — a silence not of listlessness or of vacant
musing, but of holy expectation before the Lord."
The discipline of the Western Yearly Meeting makes as
" disownable offenses," for which members are disowned
or excommunicated, denial of the divinity of Christ, the
revelation of the Holy Spirit, the divine authenticity of
the Scriptures ; engaging in the liquor traffic, drunkenness,
profanity, joining the army or encouraging war, betting,
participating in lotteries, dishonesty, taking or administer-
ing oaths, etc.
Each Yearly Meeting has its own discipline, but fellow-
ship is maintained between them by epistolary correspond-
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146 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
ence. There is also a general agreement between them
on the fundamentals of doctrine and discipline. The Phila-
delphia Yearly Meeting, which is one of the oldest, has
a discipline incorporating various decisions and advices
adopted since its organization in 168 1.
There are 10 Yearly Meetings, with 794 organizations,
725 church edifices, valued at $2,795,784, and 80,655
members. The avenge seating capacity of their edifices
is 297, and their avere^e value $3718. Halls to the num-
ber of 90, with a seating capacity of 7085, are occupied.
Summary by States.
Otniii- Church ^^f"*
adonl Edifices. ^^Hj^
Arkansas 5
California 11
Colorado i
Delaware i
Dist. of Columbia . . i
Florida 2
Illinois 21
Indiana 188
Indian Territory ... 10
Iowa 74
Kansas 65
Louisiana i
Maine 23
Maryland 0
Massachusetts 28
Michigan 17
Minnesota 6
Missouri 5
Nebraska 13
New Hampshire ... 10
New Jersey 20
New York 50
North Carolina 47
Ohio 95
Oklahoma 3
Oregon 7
3
7
I
21
6
28
16
3
II
21
47
43
94
2
6
5?"
1,785
120
260
5,653
2,025
6,370
4,550
675
950
1,354
2,860
6,655
10,270
17,475
31,930
180
2,125
Vahieof
Churdk
Piopcfty.
$1,950
14,100
300
11,000
Com.
2
375
1,200
23
6,155
36,760
172
54,775
325,577
3
250
1,300
73
19,795
102,632
51
14,304
74,415
35,975
77,800
117,700
26,500
35.100
10,800
4,800
8,800
84,200
203,900
36,850
202,250
1,225
10,550
338
122
19
70
2,015
8,146
'''%
1,430
1,560
1,433
30s
615
782
413
982
3,644
4,904
10,884
108
766
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THE FRIENDS, 1 47
Summary by STKTts.'-CaHHnued,
sxaoiu. jiAuocB. pn^ty. Propcny. cants.
Pcnn«ylvania 39 43 13,445 1,279,700 3,490
Rhode Island 11 11 3,720 58,800 617
South Dakota 4 2 475 1,000 266
Tennessee 15 8 2,975 9,400 1,001
Texas i 120
Vermont 4 4 575 4^800 2Ci
Virginia 7 7 2,300 I4>9<» 387
West Virginia i i 150 400 50
Wisconsin 3 2 400 1,100 154
Total 794 7^S ai5»43i $2,79Si784 80,655
Summary by Yearly Mestings.
VKASLY MBBTING8.
Baltimore 17 16 5yi5o $101,500 1,012
Indiana 177 160 5 1,725 350,437 22, 105
Iowa 117 100 26,429 168,532 11,391
Kansas 89 64 16,084 88,940 9,347
New England 72 71 18,603 221,275 4,020
New York 54 51 10,845 208,700 3,895
North Carolina 62 51 20,450 46,250 5,905
Ohio 47 48 IS>475 9o,95o 4,733
Philadelphia 57 62 19,535 1,366,100 4,513
Western 102 102 3i»i35 i53iioo 13,734
Total 794 7^5 215,431 $2,795,784 80,655
2. — ^THE FRIENDS (HICKSITE).
This body of Friends is so named from Elias Hicks, a
minister who was foremost in preaching doctrines which
became a cause of separation. They object to being called
Hicksites. Elias Hicks was born in 1748, and died in
1830. He emphasized the principle of "obedience to the
light within," and so stated the doctrines of the preexist-
ence, deity, incarnation, and vicarious atonement of Christ,
of the personality of Satan, and of eternal punishment.
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148 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
that he was charged with being more or less in sympathy
with Unitarianism.
Those identified with this body of Friends insist that
Mr. Hicks's views were "exactly those of Robert Barclay,"
an English Friend of the seventeenth century, whose
"Apology for the True Christian Divinity " is still regarded
as a fair exposition of the doctrinal views of Friends. They
decline to make orthodox theology a test of membership.
The separation took place in the Philadelphia Yearly
Meeting in 1827, and in New York, Baltimore, Ohio, and
Indiana in 1 828. There was no separation in New England
or North Carolina. The Genesee, in western New York, and
the Illinois Yearly Meetings were formed many years later.
They have 7 Yearly Meetings, with 201 organizations,
213 church edifices, valued at $1,661,850, and 21,992
members. The average seating capacity of their church
edifices is 341, and their average value $7802. They oc-
cupy 4 halls, with a seating capacity of 325.
Summary by States.
STATSS.
Church
Edifices.
Delaware 6 6
District of Columbia i i
Illinois 5 4
Indiana o 8
Iowa 4 4
Maryland 17 18
Michigan i i
Nebraska 3 i
New Jersey 23 26
New York 45 45
Ohio 16 18
Pennsylvania 65 74
Virginia 7 7
Total 201 213 72,568 $1,661,850 21,992
Seating
Value of
Cora.
Ca-
Church
muiu-
pacity.
Plx>perty;
cants.
1,440
$54,500
622
870
50,000
40
4,900
440
2,550
47,100
1,376
1,300
3,800
440
5i4IO
133,050
1,547
100
400
^l
200
1,400
198
9,980
183,500
2,279
13,575
561,850
3,331
1,187
4,485
29,158
61,350
546,700
10,001
3,200
13,300
506
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THE FRIENDS.
149
StJHHAIlY BY YBARLY MEETINGS.
*WMMM. MHHMH. paoty. Property.
Baltimore 29 30 10,490 $31 1,300
Genesee 13 13 3,900 i4>5<x>
Illinois 14 II 2,920 11,100
Indiana 12 14 3,885 97>ioo
New York 36 37 10,950 5^9250
Ohio o 9 2,500 8,850
Philadelphia 88 99 379923 75I9750
Total aoi 213 72,568 $1,661,850
Com-
2,797
751
1,743
12,029
21,992
3. — THE FRIENDS (WILBURITE).
The Wilburite Friends are thus called because John
Wilbur, of New England, was their principal leader in
opposing Joseph J. Gumey and his teaching. They sep-
arated from the Orthodox body in the New England
Yearly Meeting in 1845, in the Ohio in 1854, and in the
western Iowa and Kansas in 1877. They are very con-
servative, and were unwilling to adopt the new methods
devised as the church became aggressive in evangelistic
and missionary work. They make much of the doctrine
of the light within, holding that every man, by reason of
the atonement, has an inward seed, or light, given him,
which, as it is heeded, will lead him to salvation. They
deny instantaneous conversion and the resurrection of the
body. The controlling portion of the Philadelphia Yearly
Meeting hold to the views of Wilbur, though they have
not separated from the body of the church further than to
decline epistolary correspondence with it They are counted
with the Orthodox branch.
The Wilburite Friends have 5 Yearly Meetings, with
52 organizations, 52 church edifices, valued at $67,000, and
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I50 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
4329 members. They are represented in the States of
Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania,
and Rhode Island. The average seating capacity of their
church edifices is 253, and the average value $1288.
There are no halls. A single private house is occupied.
Summary by States.
^.-r^ Oi«ni. Church ^^ ^j£^ ^
•'^"** waSaoL Edifices. ^ ^Church mum.
Muuiu. jMuuco. pacitjr. Property. cants.
Indiana 9 9 1,810 $8,200 489
Iowa 12 13 2,925 12,350 1,539
Kansas 5 5 2,030 10,400 495
Massachusetts 2 2 480 3>5oo 28
Ohio 20 20 5)534 24,900 1,676
Pennsylvania i x 140 650 30
Rhode Island 3 2 250 79OOO 72
Total 52 52 I3>i69 $67,000 4,329
Summary by Yearly Meetings.
YBAXLY MBBTIMG8.
Iowa 7 7 1,500 $7>ooo 714
Kansas 5 5 2,030 10,400 495
New England 5 4 730 10,500 100
Ohio 24 25 6,735 3O1200 2,451
Western 11 11 2,174 8,900 569
Total 52 52 I3>i69 $67,000 4,329
4. — ^THE FRIENDS (PRIMITIVE).
The Primitive Friends are in faith and practice Wilburite.
They separated from the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting be-
cause that body refused to correspond with the New Eng-
land and Ohio (Wilbur) Yearly Meetings, and they do not
affiliate with the latter because they recogfnize the Phila-
delphia meeting by ministerial visitations and by exchang-
ing certificates of membership.
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THE FRIENDS.
151
They have 9 organizations, 5 church edifices, valued at
$16,700, and 232 members. They are found only in
Massachusetts^ New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island.
The average seating capacity of their church edifices is
210, and the average value $3340. One hall, with a seat-
ing capacity of 50, and 3 private houses are occupied.
Summary by States.
^ . g,^ . Swtiiic ValiMof
pactty. PiO|ieily<
Massachusetts 3 i 200 $1,000
New York 2 2 400 i»7oo
Pennsylvania 3 2 450 14,000
Rhode Island 2 ...
Total 9 5 1,050 $16,700
Summary by States or All Friends.
Arkansas 5 3 500 $19950
California 11 7 1,785 14,100
Colorado i i lao 300
Delaware 7 7 1,700 65,500
District of Columbia. 2 i 300 50,000
Florida 2 2 375 1,200
Illinois 26 27 7,025 41,660
Indiana 205 189 59,135 380,877
Indian Territory 10 3 250 1,300
Iowa 90 90 24,020 1 18,782
Kansas 70 56 16,334 84,815
Louisiana i
Maine 23 21 5,653 35,975
Maryland 23 24 7,435 210,850
Massachusetts 32 31 7*050 122,200
Michigan 18 17 4,650 26,900
Minnesota 6 3 675 35, too
Missouri 5 5 950 10,800
Nebraska 10 9 1,(54 6,200
New Hampshire ... . 10 11 2,000 8,800
New Jersey 43 47 16,635 271,700
New York 97 94 24,245 7^»45o
North Carolina 47 43 17,475 36,850
Cob.
14
IS
9
232
338
744
59
70
2,455
27,780
468
10,125
1,430
2,072
1,602
1,458
305
980
3,261
7,078
4,904
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152 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States of All Friends.— CimA'ffiiA/.
rw».«ii rkim>J« Searing Value of Com-
pacity. Property. caatL
Ohio 131 13a 41,949 $288,500 13,747
Oklahoma a 3 180 1,225 108
Oregon 7 6 2,125 10,550 766
Pennsylvania 108 120 43>i93 1,841,050 13,627
Rhode Island 16 13 3>97o 65,800 698
South Dakota 4 2 475 1,000 206
Tennessee 15 8 2,975 9,400 1,001
Texas i 120
Vennont 4 4 575 4,800 251
Virginia 14 14 5,500 28,200 893
West Virginia i i 150 400 50
Wisconsin 3 2 400 1,100 154
Total 1,056 995 302,218 $4,541,334 107,208
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CHAPTER XXIL
FRIENDS OF THE TEMPLE.
This is a small body which had its origin in Wurtem-
burg, Germany, upward of fifty years ago. It is variously
called Temple Society, Friends of the Temple, " Hoffmann-
ites." The Rev. Christopher Hoffmann, president of the
Temple colonies in Palestine, and author of most of its
standard literature, appears to be its chief leader.
The Friends of the Temple have for their great object
the gathering of the people of God in Palestine. To this
end they constitute Temples, i.e., spiritual communities, in
various countries, and these assist in the construction of
the Temple in the Holy Land, which is to become a center
for regenerated humanity. They believe in the power
of God which raised Christ from the dead, to build up a
" spiritual house, a holy priesthood," and without formu-
lating their doctrines declare their full acceptance of the
Scriptures, of the law of Moses as well as the Gospel of
Christ. They believe that all the prophecies will be fulfilled,
and that as Christ came to work out the fulfillment, that
should also be the mission of his followers. The chief task
of the Temple Society is to secure the spiritual develop-
ment of its members, who are under the oversight of presi-
dents and other officers, and meet for worship on Sundays
and on special occasions. No regulations have been adopted
concerning baptism and the Lord's Supper, individual con-
victions being allowed full play.
153
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154 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
In 1874 the Temple Society established four colonies in
Palestine — at Joppa, Sharon, Haifa, and Jerusalem. The
cost of these colonies has been met in large part by volun-
tary contributions.
Stjmmary by States.
Chnidi
Valve of Com-
pocity. JnrapoRjT'
Kansas i i 200 $800 $5
New York 3 4 950 H.Soo 285
Total 4 5 1,150 $15,300 340
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CHAPTER XXIIL
THE GERMAN EVANGELICAL PROTESTANT CHURCH.
This is a body of scattered congregations, with a center
in Cincinnati. Some of its churches are a century old, and
some are quite new. The German language is almost
exclusively spoken. In theology it is very liberal, ration-
alistic views generally prevailing. It has no synodical
organization, but there are non-ecclesiastical associations,
or vereine^ of ministers.
Summary by States.
•'^™- atE»r Edifices. ^^ ^S^
Illinois 2 3 800 $16,000
Indiana 8 7 3,270 549I50
Kentucky 3 2 2,100 5i»ooo
Louisiana i i 1,000 40,000
Missouri 2 2 2,600 70,000
Nebraska i i 200 S'^'^^
Ohio 22 23 151850 438,800
Pennsylvania 9 10 6,655 439^000
Texas 2 2 1,000 10,500
West Virginia 2 2 1,700 63,000
Total 52 52 35,175 $1,187,450 36,156
1,250
3,500
1,700
40
11,793
12,287
1,050
1.915
>5S
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CHAPTER XXIV.
THE GERMAN EVANGELICAL SYNOD.
The German Evangelical Synod of North America rep-
resents in this country the State church of Prussia, which
is a union of Lutheran and Reformed elements. The
first ecclesiastical organization was formed October 15,
1840, at a meeting held at Gravois Settlement, in Missouri,
by six evangelical ministers. Out of the principles then
agreed upon the constitution of the Synod has been grad-
ually developed. In 1850 the Society formed in Missouri
and the German Evangelical Society of Ohio, formed in
1850, united. To this union there was a further addition
in i860, when the United Evangelical Society of the East
was consolidated with it In 1872 two other bodies — ^the
Evangelical Synod of the Northwest and the United
Evangelical Synod of the East— entered and completed
the union. All were kindred bodies, holding the same
doctrines and governed by the same ecclesiastical prin-
ciples.
The Synod accepts the Bible as the only rule of faith
and practice, holding to the Augsburg Confession, Luther's
Catechism, and the Heidelberg Catechism, in so far as
they agree with one another, as correct interpretations of
it. Concerning those points on which these symbols do
not agree the Synod stands upon the Scripture passages
relating to them, and allows liberty of conscience.
156
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THE GERMAN EVANGEUCAL SYNOD.
157
The church is divided into districts, of which there are
fifteen. They correspond as nearly as possible to synods
in the Lutheran Church. A General Conference repre-
senting the whole church meets once every three years.
It is composed of the presidents of the districts, and of
delegates, clerical and lay, in the proportion of one for
every nine ministers and one for every nine churches.
Since 1872, when the union of the various Evangelical
Societies was completed, the church has grown rapidly.
It had then 219 organizations and 8032 communicants.
Now it has 870 organizations and 187,432 communicants
— the organizations having been multiplied by 4 in this
period of eighteen years, and the communicants by 23.
It is represented in twenty-two States, being strongest in
Illinois, 37,138; Ohio, 31,617; Missouri, 25,676; and
New York, 17,409.
The average seating capacity of its church edifices is
313, and the average value $5878. It also holds meet-
ings in 83 halls, which have a seating capacity of 5970.
Summary by States.
■WHUH. jbouica. pi^^iy^ Propeny.
California 4 4 618 $8,460
Colorado 2 i 250 18,000
Illinois 164 155 47,081 813,450
Indiana 75 75 22,635 337>6^
Iowa 59 43 11,413 110,300
Kansas 28 193^ 3,794 37,75o
Kentucky 11 10 5,525 1379400
Louisiana 3 3 i»55o 26,450
Maryland 12 11 6,300 223,500
Michigan 50 43 14,710 242,450
Minnesota 53 40 9,072 97>900
Missouri 124 115X 3i»922 575*650
Nebraska 23 19 3,290 43>5oo
Con-
muni-
315
37,138
I5»274
6,902
2,053
4,912
1,250
4,405
10,926
25,676
2,142
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158 kEUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by ^iKTt&.^Continued.
V^ckf. Propcftj. caoa.
New Jersey 3 3 1,190 39>ooo 1,890
New York 50 49 21,160 681,570 17,409
North Dakota 5 3 600 3,300 440
Ohio 107 106 41,019 836,200 31,617
Pennsylvania 12 12 5,670 132,150 5,293
Texas 19 14 2,380 3^i3<x> 1,804
Virginia i i 700 30,000 700
West Virginia 2 i 216 800 114
Wisconsin 63 58 14,686 182,700 1 1,410
Total 870 785 245,781 $4,614,490 187,432
Summary by Districts.
DISTUCn.
Atlantic 26 23 11,490 $380,650 9,825
Indiana 80 79 31,890 724,600 25,444
Iowa 65 49 12,973 127,625 7,885
Kansas 32 22)^ 4,254 57,250 2,248
Michigan 73 66 21,180 332,410 15,937
Minnesota 59 44 9,842 101,700 6,127
Missouri 93 87X25,030 424,650 21,566
Nebraska 21 17 3,080 42,000 2,082
New York 48 48 20,680 639,070 17,284
North Illinois 83 79 26,340 511,675 22,814
Ohio 95 93 33,645 582,000 23,875
South Illinois 81 76 21,671 318,900 15,216
Texas 19 14 2,380 36,300 1,864
West Missouri 33 30 6,810 153,460 3,975
Wisconsin 62 57 14,516 182,200 11,290
Total 870 785 245,781 $4,614,490 187,432
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CHAPTER XXV.
THE JEWS.
The first company of Jews in this country came from
Brazil in 1654. The first synagogue was established in
Mill Street, New York City, now known as Broad Street
It was called the Shearith Israel (Remnant of Israel), and
the society is still in active existence, occupying a building
on West Nineteenth Street As according to custom ten
males above the age of thirteen can form a Jewish congre-
gation, it is quite probable that there was Jewish worship
before the first synagogue was opened, although it was
doubtless conducted with some secrecy, as a petition to the
authorities of New Amsterdam in 1685 for the privilege
of exercising the rites of the Jewish religion was denied.
" No public worship/' so ran the reply, " is tolerated by
act of assembly but to those that profess faith in Christ"
Later some of the Jews in New York removed to New-
port, R. I., and there held regular services, securing in
1763 a synagogue, to which the chief contributors were
sons of the minister of the congregation, the Rev. Isaac
Touro. One of these sons, Abraham Touro, gave $10,000
for the completion of the Bunker Hill monument Jewish
congregations were organized in Savannah, Ga., in 1733 ;
in Lancaster, Pa., in 1776; in Philadelphia in 1780 and
1782; and in Charleston, S. C, in 179 1. Of these con-
gregations those in the South and one of those in Phila-
159
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l6o REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
delphia used the ritual of the Portuguese Jews, the others
that of the German Jews.
The Jews of America have no religious head. Each
congregation is autonomous, and responsible to its mem-
bers only. It is said that an effort in New York to bring
the Orthodox congregations under the care of a chief
rabbi is not wholly satisfactory.
The statistics of Jewish congregations are not frequently
or periodically gathered, as is the custom of most religious
denominations ; but twice at least in the last forty years
efforts have been made to ascertain the number of Jewish
congregations in the United States, once in 1854 and again
in 1880. According to the earlier report there were in
1854 97 regularly organized congregations, of which 30
were in the State of New York. The latter count was
made under the auspices of the Board of Delegates of
American Israelites and the Union of Hebrew Congrega-
tions, and it required several years to complete the com-
pilation. The results, which have been regarded as quite
accurate, indicated the existence of 270 congregations,
with 12,546 members, or about 50,000 communicants.
The value of the real estate held by the congregations
was returned at $4,706,700, with other property ag^e-
gating $1,497,878, or a total of $6,204,578, exclusive of
burying-grounds.
The tables presented herewith show that there are 533
congregations of Orthodox and Reformed Jews, with 1 30,-
496 communicants. It should be noted that in Jewish
congregations the head of a family only is counted. The
members of the family are represented by one person.
The number g^iven as communicants, therefore, does not
indicate the number of members of a synagogue. Mem-
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THE JEWS. l6l
bers of families may, on attaining their majority, rent a
pew and be counted as a member of a synagogue or tem-
ple, but they seldom do so until they have a household of
their own.
I. — ^THE ORTHODOX JEWS.
There are two branches or schools of thought in the
Jewish religion, commonly designated the Orthodox and
the Reformed. The attempt is here made to tabulate the
statistics in accordance with this classification. It is difE-
cult, however, in some cases to know how to draw the
lines. Under the above heading those congregations are
embraced which adhere to the ancient rites and ceremo-
nies, observing the Bible as expounded and expanded by
the prophets and rabbis. The Orthodox Jews accept the
Schulchan Aruch as authoritative in all its requirements.
It is a codification, made by Rabbi Joseph Karo in the
middle of the sixteenth century, of the laws and ceremo-
nies expounded by the rabbis of the Talmud and handed
down from generation to generation by tradition. It pro-
vides for the minutest details of Jewish life, and those who
accept it consider it as binding as the law of Moses itself.
Halls to the number of 193, with a seating capacity of
24,847, are occupied as places of worship. The average
seating capacity of the churches is 384, and the average
value $22,967.
Summary by States.
/v«.„' rkM«.fc Seating Value of Com-
STATES. SSE^rS^S^ Ca-* Chuich muni-
Edifices.
padty. Property. cants.
Alabama i 325
California 7 5 2,225 $93»ooo 2,344
Colorado 4 3 800 25,500 662
Connecticut 6 i 500 12,000 926
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1 63 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States. — Cmimued,
Ornni- Church f?'
satioDS. Edifices. ^JL
Value of
Church
Piupeily.
District of Columbia
Geor^
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
I
3
12
8
I
4
2
8
3
7
6
I
4
19
152
I
I
17
2
17
3
4
I
I
4
I
4
I
I
4
3
I
I
2
3
4
5
I
2
I
10
44
I
6
I
13
I
3
75
$2,000
200
8,000
2,175
121,500
650
6,500
260
12,000
175
1,500
575
1,200
43>ooo
1,775
110,500
2,150
36,000
400
25,000
58,000
1,100
100
2,575
21,245
180
2,790
2,862
200
1,450
675
150
5,500
44,300
1,919,500
6,500
67,000
16,000
116,250
20,000
8,500
17,000
7,000
Cmd.
40
240
4,405
1,299
50
403
200
629
775
1,201
2,150
750
1,432
140
550
2,5"
29,064
73
30
2,313
475
2,447
685
65
44
493
150
291
Total 316 122 46,837 $2,802,050 57,597
2. — ^THE REFORMED JEWS.
Under this classification are included all Jewish congre-
gations which do not recognize as absolute the authority
of the Schulchan Aruch. In some cases the departure
from orthodoxy is slight, as in worshiping with the hat off,
the mingling of the sexes in the synagogue or temple, and
the introduction of the organ and female choir. There
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THE JEWS. 163
are 38 halls, with a seating capacity of 6360, occupied as
places of worship. The average seating capacity of the
edifices is 516, and their average value $38,839, which
is unequaled.
Summary by States.
STATSS. _„ _.
pMitj. Property. cants.
Alabama 7 5 3>o5o $103,500 2,843
Arkansas \ 5 1,450 44tOOo 744
California 8 7 3,150 303,000 3,835
Colorado i i 600 50,000 400
Connecticut 3 2 850 75^000 695
District of Columbia i i 900 40,000 936
Florida a 2 318 i3>5oo 147
Georgia 6 6 2,900 151,000 1,846
Illinois 12 II 6,645 465,000 5^766
Indiana. 15 13 4^050 160,000 2,318
Iowa 5 4 1,160 58,000 487
Kansas a 83
Kentucky 5 4 850 16,000 755
Louisiana 5 4 2,875 255,000 2,745
Maryland 9 6 3i900 223,500 2,800
Massachusetts 2 a 2,440 i3S»ooo 1,300
Michigan 4 4 1,900 118,000 1,543
Minnesota 2 2 724 45fOoo 674
Mississippi 6 5 I9750 64,000 i>37o
Missouri 9 6 3,033 183,800 3,018
Nebraska 2 i 500 159OOO 512
New Jersey 5 4 J,430 124,000 1,755
New Mexico i 50
New York 27 25 18,927 3,395>7a> 16,743
North Carolina ... . 3 i 400 30,000 313
Ohio 17 13 7,020 636,225 6,576
Oregon i i 850 80,000 690
Pennsylvania 18 15 7,980 552,500 5,582
Rhode Island 2 i 420 25,000 225
South Carolina 3 3 850 78,000 800
Tennessee 5 4 ^>95^ 106,000 1,335
Texas 10 8 2,380 182,000 1,929
Utah I I 750 40,000 100
Virginia 7 6 1,875 70,500 694
West Virginia 3 2 6co 9^000 350
Wisconsin 4 4 1,880 105,000 940
Total 217 179 92,397 $6,952,225 72,899
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1 64 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States of All Jews.
Organi- Church ^??*«
Alabama 8
Arkansas 5
California 15
Colorado 5
Connecticut 8
District of Columbia 2
Florida 2
Georgia 9
Illinois 24
Indiana 23
Iowa 6
Kansas 6
Kentucky 7
Louisiana 13
Maryland 12
Massachusetts 9
Michigan 10
Minnesota 5
Mississippi 6
Missouri 17
Montana i
Nebraska 6
New Jersey 24
New Mexico i
New York 179
North Carolina 4
North Dakota i
Ohio 34
Oregon 3
Pennsylvania 35
5
3
9
II
I
I
II
I
3
8
Rhode Island .
South Carolina
Tennessee ....
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington . . .
West Virginia -
Wbconsin
S
5
12
4
3
2
2
7
11
4
I
I
I
9
3
2
69
2
19
2
28
2
3
7
8
I
2
6
3»05o
1,450
5,375
1,400
i>35o
975
31B
3,ia>
8,820
4,700
1,160
260
1,025
3,450
5,100
4,215
4,050
1,124
1,750
4,133
4,995
40,172
580
9,810
1,200
10,842
620
850
4,400
2,380
750
2,550
650
2,030
Value of
Church
Pfopertjr.
$103,500
44,000
396,000
75.500
87,000
42,000
13,500
159,000
586,500
166,500
58,000
12,000
17,500
275,000
266,500
245,500
154,000
70,000
64,000
241,800
20,500
168,300
4,315,200
36,500
703,225
96,000
668,750
45.000
78,000
114,500
182,000
40,000
87,500
9,000
112,000
Com-
muni-
3,168
744
6,179
1,062
1,621
976
147
2,086
10,171
3,617
537
486
955
3»374
3,575
2,501
3,693
1,424
1,370
4,450
140
1,062
4,276
45,807
386
30
8,889
1,165
8,029
910
800
1,760
1.994
100
44
1,187
150
350
1,231
Total 533 301 139,234 $9,754,275 130,496
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CHAPTER XXVL
THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is of
American origin. It was founded in 1830 by Joseph
Smith, its first Prophet He was bom in Sharon, Vt, in
1805, removing to Palmyra, N. Y., ten years later. Be-
tween the ages of fourteen and fifteen he began earnestly
to inquire how he could with certainty save his soul, and
how he might ascertain which one of the many denomina-
tions was the true Church of Christ. While thus seeking
he had a vision of a great light, and two " glorious person-
ages *' appeared and informed him that his sins were for-
given, and instructed him in the doctrine of the one true
religion, which was not, he was told, represented by any
of the existing churches. Another vision was granted him
in 1823, when an " angel of the Lord '' appeared and told
him that the preparatory work for the second coming of
Christ was soon to begin, and that he was to be chosen to
bring about some of the purposes of the coming dispensa-
tion. The vision was frequently renewed. By the direc-
tions received in one of them he was enabled to obtain the
sacred records, which have since been known as the " Book
of Mormon." These records were received, it is stated,
in 1827. They were "engraved on plates which had
the appearance of gold," and these plates were " filled on
both sides " with words in reformed Egyptian characters.
165
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1 66 REUGJOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Having become the subject of persecution on account of
the visions, he fled to Pennsylvania, and translated, ** by
the gift and power of God/' the records which had been
miraculously delivered to him. The Book of Mormon
claims to give a history of ancient America, from a settle-
ment by a colony who came from the Tower of Babel, at
the confusion of tongues.
An angel appeared in 1829, it is stated, to Joseph Smith
and Oliver Cowdery and ordained them as priests of the
order of Aaron and directed them to baptize each other.
In 1830 a church was organized at Fayette, Seneca County,
N. Y. The new gospel was preached, miracles were an-
nounced as an attestation of the new faith, and mission-
aries were sent out, among whom Brigham Young, Sidney
Rigdon, and the Pratt brothers — Parley P. and Orson — ^were
prominent. Churches were established in several States.
In 1 83 1 the headquarters of the denomination were re-
moved west to Kirtland, O., and a colony was formed in
Jackson County, Mo. After having been driven out of
Missouri, a settlement was made at Nauvoo, 111., where a
large temple was erected and where the headquarters of
the church were iixed. In 1843 Joseph Smith announced
a revelation in favor of the celestial order of marriage
including polygamy. In disturbances which subsequently
arose he was shot and killed by a mob, June 27, 1844, at
Carthage, ID., and Brigham Young became his successor
as Prophet. In 1846 and 1847 there was a general migra-
tion from Illinois to Salt Lake, the present headquarters of
the church.
There are two divisions — ^the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-Day Saints, and the Reorganized Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter- Day Saints.
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THE LA TTER'DA Y SAINTS. 1 67
I. — ^THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY
SAINTS.
Those who migrated to Salt Lake devised a system for
active propagation of the doctrines of the Book of Mormon
and subsequent revelations, and their numbers increased
steadily. The "celestial law of marriage" was openly
practiced after 1852, when it was promulgated. After the
death of Brigham Young, August, 1877, John Taylor suc-
ceeded as president of the church. In 1 890 Wilf ord Wood-
ruff, the successor of John Taylor as " seer, revelator, and
first president," announced a revelation prohibiting the
contracting of further polygamous marriages.
The chief points of the doctrinal belief of the Latter- Day
Saints, as stated by President Wilford Woodruff, are in
substance: God exists as a Trinity of Father, Son, and
Holy Ghost ; men are to be punished for actual sins, and
not for the transgression of Adam ; salvation is for all men,
through the atonement of Christ, by obedience to the laws
and ordinances of the gospel ; these ordinances are faith,
repentance, baptism by immersion for the remission of sin%
and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost ;
men are called of God to the ministry by prophecy and
the laying on of hands by those in authority ; there is the
gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, and
interpretation of tongues ; the Bible is the Word of God, so
far as it is translated correctly, also the Book of Mormon ;
God has revealed much and has much yet to reveal ; there
is to be a literal gathering of Israel and the restoration of the
ten tribes ; Zion is to be built on this continent ; Christ will
reign personally upon the earth, which is to be renewed.
The organization of the church includes features of both
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1 68 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
the Jewish and Christian systems. There are two orders
of the priesthood, the Melchizedek or higher, and the
Aaronic or lesser. The first embraces apostles, patriarchs,
high-priests, seventies, and elders, and has charge over all
the spiritual ihterests of the church, preaching, baptizing,
laying on of hands for confirmation and ordination, healing,
blessing, administering the Lord's Supper, and officiating
in all the ordinances. The Aaronic priesthood, including
bishops, priests, teachers, and deacons, administers, under
the direction of the Melchizedek priesthood, the outward
ordinances and temporal affairs. In organization for church
government the place of the ordinary parish is taken by
the ward. Each ward has its meeting-house and bishop,
and two counselors. A number of wards constitute a stake
of Zion. At the head of each stake or district is a presi-
dent and two counselors, who are high-priests, and a coun-
cil of twelve high-priests who sit as a court in church
matters. There is a general conference which meets in
April and October of each year for the management of
the general affairs of the church. The missionaries and
preachers are organized into seventies. Each seventy has
seven presidents, and is under the direction of the Twelve
Apostles. The highest officers are those of the First Pres-
idency, which has supreme authority, and are elected by
the whole church.
The chief strength of the church is in Utah, but it abo
has organizations in twenty-two States and Territories.
There are in all 425 organizations, 266 church edifices,
valued at $825,506, and 144,352 communicants. The
average seating capacity of the edifices is 346, and their
average value $3 103 ; 1 78 halls, etc., with a seating capac-
ity of 28,310, are occupied.
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THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS.
169
Summary by States.
Alabama . .
Arizona . . .
Colorado. .
Georgia. . .
Idaho
Indiana . . .
Kansas ...
Kentucky .
Maryland .
Nevada .
New Mexico....
New York
North Carolina ,
Pennsylvania . . .
South Carolina
Tennessee
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia .
Wisconsin
Wyoming
4,815
1,380
48 1I9682
Oraani- Church rv. "
lations. FffjifirTf ^^
paaty.
2
27 16
3 3
I
62
I
I
I
I
I
5
5
2
I
4
I
2
293
1
2
I
8 6 1,550
300
191 72,375
Total 425 266 92,102
Vahieof Com.
Church muBi-
Property. cants.
166
$26,400 6,500
7,200 1,640
...... 175
45,560 14,816
14
34
:::;:: H
123
417
i»430 453
56
108
44
...<^.. 203
134
733>2i6 117,640
:::::: X
32
11,700 1,322
$825,506 X44i352
Summary by Stakes.
Bannock
Bear Lake
Beaver
Box Elder 14
Cache
Cassia
Davis
Emery
Juab
knab
Malad
Maricopa
Millard
Morgan
Oneida
20
14
'I
18
\
21
4
1.395
1,750
7,920
622
10
1
9
I
5
4,700
1,800
8
9
i
9
15
I
9
300
2,050
3
3
10
1,325
950
2,940
$9,720
17,350
25,100
20,750
87,000
740
36,500
19,661
1,400
7,850
4,800
11,000
3,200
21,600
4,343
4,986
1,342
6,962
1,377
4,686
1,968
3,190
2,161
2,317
1,785
2,815
1,479
4,445
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I70 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SuMifARY BY Stakes. — Contintied,
rw*..; rt...j^i. Seating Value of Com-
paoty. Property. caati.
Panguitch 8 8 1,750 $119750 1,786
Parowan 5 c 1,950 17,700 2,251
Saint George 24 8 1,650 4ti5o 39^
Saint John's 7 4 625 1,980 1,413
Saint Joseph 9 7 2,540 9^050 2,067
Salt Lake 43 38 13,015 222,694 23,428
San Juan 7 5 1,080 6,000 829
San Luis 2 2 1,100 5>7oo 1,454
Sanpete 16 14^ 79760 56,980 12,713
Sevier 19 8^ 2,850 199665 5,226
Snowflake.. 8 6 1,800 11,000 1,478
Summit 15 10 5,200 28,350 2,611
Tooele 7 6 1,575 13,266 1,974
UinU 6 I 500 800 1,588
Utah 27 18 79050 69,450 19,240
Wasatch 6 5 - 2,900 7,700 3,379
Weber 21 10 4,000 61,125 10,351
Northern States. .. . xo 352
Southern Sutes 12 1,277
Total 425 266 92,102 $825,506 144,352
2. — ^THE REORGANIZED CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS.
Like the Mormons of Utah, the members of this organ-
ization, sometimes called Nonpolygamous Mormons, trace
their origrin back to the movement begun by Joseph Smith
in 1830. They claim to represent this movement and to
be true to the principles and doctrines proclaimed by him,
and insist that those who followed Brigham Young were
led away from the truth into error. They deny that the
revelation concerning polygfamy which was communicated
to the church in Salt Lake City in 1852 by Brigham
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THE LA TTER-DA Y SAINTS, 1 7 1
Young was genuine, and declare that the true successor
to Joseph Smith in the presidency of the church was not
Brigham Young, but Joseph Smith's eldest son, Joseph.
It is said that none of the members of the family of the
first Prophet have united with the Utah branch, but all
have become members of the Reorganized Church.
The first conference was held in 1852, and it was then
that the leadership of Brigham Young, James J. Strang,
Sidney Rigdon, and others was disowned and the society
organized. Its headquarters are at Lamoni, la, where it
has a large publishing-house.
The Reorganized Church accepts three books as of
divine origin : first, the Bible ; second, the Book of Mor-
mon ; third, the Book of Covenants. The latter consists
of the revelations g^ven to the church in the present cent-
ury as a guide in church government. The Book of
Mormon is accepted as a history of the ancient inhabitants
of America and the revelation given them by God, begin-
ning at a period two thousand years before Christ and con-
tinuing until four hundred years after Christ. In doctrine
they adhere to the Trinity, to the atonement by Jesus
Christ, to the resurrection of the dead, to the second com-
ing of Christ, and to the eternal judgment, believing that
each individual will receive reward or punishment in strict
measure according to the good or evil deeds done in life.
They hold that men are to be saved by faith in God and
Christ, by forsaking sin, by immersion for the remission
of sin, and by the laying on of hands. They believe that
revelations of God are still gfiven by the Holy Spirit for
the guidance of the church, and that the gifts, blessings,
and powers of the Holy Spirit in Bible times are continual.
Their order of church government is such as they find
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172 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
authority for in the New Testament and such as they
understand that the Apostolic Church observed It in-
cludes the presidency, consisting, when full, of three per-
sons, which has jurisdiction over the whole church as its
chief presiding authority; twelve apostles, whose special
duty is to take charge of all missionary work abroad ; one
or more quorums of seventy, who are set apart from the
body of elders and assist the apostles ; high-priests, who
have charge over States and districts ; priests or pastors,
teachers and deacons, and bishops, of whom three are set
at the head of the business affairs of the church. Other
bishops and agents assist in collecting the tithes. As to
marriage, they believe that it is ordained of God, and that
there should be but one companion for man or woman in
wedlock until the contract is broken by death or transgres-
sion. They characterize the doctrine of polygamy or plural
wives as an abomination.
The Reorganized Church is represented in thirty-six
States and three Territories, including that of Utah. It
returns 21,773 members, of whom 5303 are in Iowa The
next largest number, 3189, is in Missouri; Illinois has
1909, Michigan 1540, and California 1396. Meetings are
held in 254 halls, etc, with a seating capacity of 15,370.
The value of the church property is $226,285, which in-
dicates an average valuation of $1847. The average seat-
ing capacity is 251. The church is not fully organized
into districts.
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THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS.
173
Summary by States.
--.--- Owpni- Church
•'*"* Mtiona. Edifices.
Alabama 12 2
Arkansas i
California 28 7
Colorado 5 i
Connecticut
Florida 9
Idaho 7
Illinois 52 15
Indiana 13 2
Indian Territory ... 2
Iowa 59 27
Kansas 25 4
Kentucky i i
Maine 14 2
Maryland
Massachusetts 8 5
Michigan 33 6
Minnesota 4
Mississippi 2 i
Missouri 42 18
Montana 2 2
Nebraska 20 7
Nevada 4
New Jersey i
New Mexico
New York 2
Ohio 18 6
Oregon 3
Pennsylvania 10 i
Rhode Island 3 i
South DakoU 4
Tennessee 3 3
Texas 12 o
Utah 14 I
Virginia i
Washington i
West Virginia 10 i
Wisconsin 6 3
Wyoming
Total 431 122
Seating
Value of
Com.
Ca-
Church
muQi-
padty.
Propertj.
cants.
300
$350
"t
1,700
14,400
1,396
200
2,000
122
8
257
156
3,500
19,200
i;909
900
1,800
366
46
6,785
44,985
5i303
800
3,300
1,072
200
1,500
50
475
1,800
442
17
2,050
11,500
457
1,750
4,325
1,540
224
100
150
74
5,000
58,650
3,189
400
1,500
122
1,000
7,500
i,o58^
108
21
3
102
3,050
43,000
678
95
300
1,000
373
150
800
'11
6*
275
325
1,025
1,900
437
150
3,700
561
34
34
300
1,400
325
320
1,200
309
H
30,790 $226,285 21,773
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174 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The two branches of Latter*Day Saints aggregate 856
organizations, 388 church edifices, with a seating capacity
of 122,892, and a value of $1,051,791, and 166,125 com-
municants. Of the latter 118,201 are in Utah, and th«-
next largest number, 14,972, in Idaho.
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CHAPTER XXVII.
THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS.
The earliest Lutherans in America came from Holland
to Manhattan Island in 1623 with the first Dutch colony.
For some years they had great difficulty in establishing
worship of their own, the Dutch authorities, ecclesiastical
and civil, having received instructions " to encourage no
other doctrine in the New Netherlands than the true
Reformed " and " to allure the Lutherans to the Dutch
churches and matriculate them in the Public Reformed
religion." A Lutheran pastor, the Rev. John Ernest Goet-
water, was sent to this country in 1657 by the Lutheran
Consistory of Amsterdam to minister to two Lutheran
congregations, one at New York, the other at Albany.
He was not allowed, however, to enter upon his ministra-
tions, but was sent back to Holland by representatives of
the Reformed faith. When the English took possession
of New York the Lutherans were allowed full liberty of
worship.
The Lutheran faith was also established on the banks of
the Delaware by a Swedish colony, who erected the first
Lutheran church in America near Lewes in 1638. Swed-
ish immigration was soon checked, and the large Lutheran
influx from Germany did not begin until early in the eight-
eenth century, the first German congregation of Lutherans
having been organized at about that time in Montgomery
17s
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176 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
County, Pa., with the Rev. Justus Falckner, who was
ordained in this country by the Swedes, as its first pastor.
In 1 710 a large number of exiled Palatines settled in New
York and Pennsylvania, and in 1 734 a colony of Salzburg-
ers planted the Lutheran faith in Georgia.
While immigration brought many Lutherans to this
country, they were in a scattered and unorganized con-
dition until the arrival of the Rev. Henry M. Muhlenburg,
who drew them closer together, formed them into congre-
gations, and inspired them with new life. In 1748 he,
with six other ministers and lay delegates from congrega-
tions, organized the first Lutheran synod in this country,
the Synod or Ministerium of Pennsylvania. In 1 786 the
second synod, the Ministerium of New York, was formed.
The recent extraordinary growth of the Lutheran com-
munion in this country is due in part to immigration from
Lutheran countries. A large proportion of Lutherans are
either German immigrants or the offspring of German im-
mig^rants. There are also large bodies of Swedish, Norwe-
gian, and Danish Lutherans, with a number from Finland
and other European countries.
The system of faith held by all Lutherans is set forth in
the Augsburg Confession and in a number of other sym-
bols, known as Luther's Catechisms, the Apology of the
Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles, and the
Formula of Concord. The cardinal doctrine of the system
is that of justification by faith alone. The ordinances of
baptism and the Lord's Supper are held byXutherans to
be not mere sig^ or memorials, but channels of grace.
Their view of the Lord's Supper is peculiar. They be-
lieve that " in the Holy Supper there are present with the
elements and are received sacramentally and supematu-
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS. \ ^j
rally the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ/' but re-
ject both transubstantiation as held by the Roman Catho-
lic Churchy and consubstantiation as attributed by some
writers to the Lutheran Church. They observe the vari-
ous festivals of the Christian year, and have a liturgical
form of worship.
In polity, while the sovereignty of the individual con-
gregation, which includes the office of preaching the gos-
pel and administering the sacraments, is recognized, in the
synodical system as it prevails a measure of judicial and
executive authority is conferred upon the individual synods
by the individual congregations. .General bodies, such as
the General Synod, General Council, etc., are formed by
the union of a number of synods and have chiefly advisory
powers. Synods may withdraw from the General Synod,
General Council, and other general bodies, and may after-
ward rejoin the body they withdrew from or join another
body, or take an independent position.
Arranging the various synods as nearly as possible ac-
cording to speech, we find that seven languages are repre-
sented, if the Norwegian be considered as different from
the Danish. The United Synod of the South is wholly,
and the General Synod mostly, English. The General
Council, the Synodical Conference, and the independent
synods have but a small percentage of English oi^aniza-
tions. The following is a summary, omitting the independ-
ent congregations, which cannot well be classified :
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178 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Languages.
Number of
romwwnirm
I,8i6
198,997
2,691
460,706
1,178
232,51a
88,700
688
1,786
190.154
181
13.674
»3
1,991
II
i,3«S
Enfi^
German
German-English
Swedish
Norwegian
Danish
Icelandic
Finnish
Total 8,364 1,188,119
I. — ^THE •general synod.
This is the oldest general body of Lutherans. It was
organized in 1820 by representatives of the Ministerium
of Pennsylvania, the oldest synod ; the Ministerium of New
York, the next oldest ; the Synod of North Carolina, the
third oldest; and the Synod of Maryland and Virginia. The
General Synod was the only general body until the Civil
War cut off its Southern synods and led to the organization
of the General Synod, South, now known as the United
Synod in the South. It never had, however, the adher-
ence of all the synods. One withdrew and afterward
joined again ; some held aloof from it for many years, so
that from the first there has scarcely been a period in
which there have not been synods in an independent
attitude.
The chief cause of the changes which synods have made
in their attachments to the general bodies, and also of the
organization of the General Council and Synodical Confer-
ence, has been differences concerning the acceptance and
interpretation of the doctrinal symbols. There have been
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THE BVANGEUCAL LUTHERANS. 1 79
no secessions or divisions among Lutherans on account of
questions arising in church government, except several
instances among the Germans, when charges of hierarch-
ical tendencies were broached. The reception in 1864 of
the Franckean Synod by the General Synod led to a
division on confessional grounds. It was objected by many
that the Franckean Synod had not announced its accept-
ance of the Augsburg Confession and it was thought to be
doctrinally unsound. It was contended in behalf of those
who adhered to the General Synod that the Franckean
Synod had accepted the Augsburg Confession in accepting
the constitution of the General Synod, in which is set forth
the confessional basis. The minority, including the repre-
sentatives of the Ministerium of Pennsylvania, presented a
protest against the admission of the Franckean Synod, and
the representatives of the Ministerium withdrew. Two
years later, however, at the next meeting of the General
Synod, delegates from the Ministerium were in attendance,
but, not being allowed to participate in the election of
officers, on the ground that the Ministerium must be con-
sidered as "in a state of practical withdrawal from the
governing functions of the General Synod," they retired,
and their example was subsequently followed by the Pitts-
burg, Ei^lish Ohio, Minnesota, and Texas synods, and the
Ministerium soon after led in a movement for the formation
of another general body.
The following is the confessional basis of the General
Synod :
" We receive and hold with the Evangelical Lutheran
Church of our fathers the Word of God, as contained in
the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments,
as the only infallible rule of faith and practi(:e, and the
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l8o REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Augsburg Confession as a correct exhibition of the funda-
mental doctrines of the divine Word and of the faith of our
church founded upon that Word."
The General Synod Lutherans affiliate more readily with
other evangelical denominations than the Lutherans at-
tached to the General Council, the Synodical Conference,
or the Ohio Synod. They do not refuse to exchange pul-
pits with ministers of evangelical churches, as do their
stricter brethren, who condemn these relations under the
general term " unionism."
The General Synod has connected with it 23 synods, the
oldest of which, that of Maryland, was organized in 1820,
and the newest, that of Middle Tennessee, in 1878. It is
represented in twenty-five States and in the District of
Columbia and Territory of New Mexico. Nearly one half
of its communicants, or 78,938, are to be found in the
State of Pennsylvania. Of its 1424 organizations, Penn-
sylvania has 596. There are 1322 edifices, valued at
$8,919,170. This indicates an average value for each
edifice of $6745, which is extraordinary. The average
seating capacity of the edifices is 357. Only 72 of the
1424 organizations meet in other than church buildings.
The 72 halls have a seating capacity of 10,730.
The boundaries of Lutheran synods are very irregular.
Those of the synods belonging to the General Synod are
more regular than those of any of the other Lutheran gen-
eral bodies, but only 5 of the 23 do not cross one or more
State lines.
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS.
I8l
Summary by States.
OmnL rhti««4i Seating Value of Com-
•'^~ 2£^ ^fi^ ^ Chmch muBi.
Miuuw. MUlwc*. puctty. Property. cants.
Alabama i i 300 $2,000 175
California 6 3 1,700 87,000 743
Colorado 7 5 1,025 ^>5a> 220
Connecticut 2 i 400 7,000 190
District of Columbia 6 6 39O00 301,000 1,038
IUi?o» 93 «3^ 24,803 344,050 7,438
Indiana 86 88 23,600 243,300 6,090
Iowa 30 28 8,585 127,200 2,043
Kansas 53 43 10,245 171,000 2,835
Kentucky 11 11 3,700 43,700 1,627
Maryland 96 97 43,43© 843,050 17,288
Massachusetts 2 2 275 2,700 103
Michigan 9 9 2,450 37,500 679
Minnesota i i 300 1,200 26
Missouri 14 13 4,125 132,850 1,576
Nebraska 73 55 12, 185 330,420 3,731
New Jersey 16 16 5,175 126,100 2,415
New Mexico 2 64
New York 95 looX 36,925 1,224,700 15,61 1
Ohio 189 182 59,310 1,039,950 18,437
Pennsylvania 596 545J< 219,516 3,672,650 78,938
South Dakota 3 3 370 7,700 64
Tennessee 11 11 4,600 8,900 749
Virginia 3 3 1,050 7,000 45a
West Virginia 5 5 1,800 69,000 i, 108
Wisconsin 11 8^ 2,600 17,600 861
Wyoming 3 2 350 6,100 141
Tot9l 1,424 1,322 471,819 $8,919,170 164,640
Summary by Synods.
tVNOOS.
Allegheny 138 131 42,4$^ $539,925 12,80^
Central Illinois 25 24^ 7,415 147,100 2,187
Central Pennsylva-
nia 83 77^ 29,280 372,100 8,680
East Ohio 75 72 24,425 412,800 6,360
East Pennsylvania.. 109 102^ 47,560 1,141,650 17,994
Franckean 29 28 8,225 100,200 2, 147
Hartwick 34 35 13,404 286,400 4,578
Iowa 25 24 7,160 153*700 1,727
Kansas 47 38 10,275 242,650 2,924
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Seadng
Value 01
Com-
C
Church
mum-
p^Hty.
Property.
cants.
48,905 $
1,198,050
19,864
13,310
395,000
4.604
4,600
16,175
8,900
415,870
S.JS
20,096
955,900
11,234
13,900
108,050
3,147
"9,475
184,100
4,650
9,f75
135,100
3,577
24,850
330,125
7,740
4,450
20,250
1,234
26,540
483,850
"0,643
7,313
50,855
o?2'^~
3,320
868,000
'm
22,475
338,650
182 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Synods. — Continued,
Maryland 108 109
Miami 45 42
Middle Tennessee . . 11 11
Nebraska 102 77
New York and New
Jersey 50 54
North Illinois 46 41
North Indiana 67 71
Olive Branch 37 35
Pittsburg 81 75
South Illinois 19 i|^
Susquehanna 59 58
Wartburg 29 24
West Pennsylvania . 131 106
Wittenberg 74 71
Total 1,424 1,322 471,819 $8,919,170 164,640
2. — ^THE UNITED SYNOD IN THE SOUTH.
Soon after the beginning of the Civil War the four synods
of North and South Carolina and of Virginia and south-
west Virginia withdrew from the General Synod because
of the adoption by that body, at its convention in 1862, of
resolutions concerning the war which gave offense to the
South. These synods and the Synod of Texas were not
represented in the convention of 1862 on account of the
outbreak of hostilities and the condition of the country.
The next year (1863) the four synods above mentioned
and the Synod of Georgia constituted the General Synod,
South. A few other Southern synods afterward became
connected with it. In 1886 a new organization, known as
the United Synod in the South, took its place, consisting
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS. 183
of six synods which had belonged to the General Synod,
South, and the independent Tennessee and Holston synods.
The type of Lutheranism represented by the United
Synod in the South is similar to that of the General Synod,
though perhaps a little stricter. Its confessional basis is
as follows :
" The Holy Scriptures, the inspired writings of the Old
and New Testaments, the only standard of doctrine and
church discipline.
" As a true and faithful exhibition of the doctrines of
the Holy Scriptures in regard to matters of faith and prac-
tice, the three ancient symbols, the Apostolic, the Nicene,
and the Athanasian Creeds, and the Unaltered Augsburg
Confession of Faith; also, the other symbolical books of
the Evangelical Lutheran Church, viz., the Apology, the
Smalcald Articles, the Smaller and Larger Catechisms of
Luther, and the Formula of Concord, consisting of the
Epitome and full Declaration as they are set forth, defined,
and published in the Christian Book of Concord, or the
Symbolical Books of the Lutheran Church, published in
the year 1580, as true and Scriptural developments of the
doctrines taught in the Augsburg Confession and in perfect
harmony of \sic] one and the same pure Scriptural faith."
The United Synod in the South is represented in nine
of the Southern States, including Tennessee and West Vir-
ginia. It has 414 organizations and 379 church edifices,
of an average value of $2938, and an average seating capac-
ity of 365 ; 29 halls, with a seating capacity of 4225, are
occupied.
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l84 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
Alabama 3 i 250 $1,200
Florida 2 2 460 5>4So
Georgia 16 15 4,825 99>i5o
Mississippi 11 10 2^750 4*650
North Carolina .... 119 107 4^1463 263,690
South Carolina .... 74 78 27,525 339*250
Tennessee 23 20 7*410 52,750
Virginia 145 124 45>090 3i4i20o
West Virginia 21 22 5,680 33*725
Total 414 379 I3M53 $1,114,065
Summary by Synods.
SVMODt.
Alpha Synod of
Frcedmen 5 3 550 $1*750
Georgia 17 16 4,885 92,600
Holston 27 22 7,835 53*650
Mississippi 11 10 2,750 4,650
North Carolina 56 53 21,050 188,800
South Carolina 61 66 21,975 337*150
Southwest Virginia. 65 48 17,502 114,050
Tennessee 107 97 41,976 143*790
Virginia 65 64 19*930 177,625
Total 414 379 I38i453 $1*114,065
Com-
muni-
75
143
1,477
533
"i759
8,757
1.99?
11,196
1,518
37,457
94
1,535
2,129
6,163
7,013
10,086
5,525
37,457
3. — ^THE GENERAL COUNCIL.
This was the third general body to be organized in the
order of time. When the General Synod consented in
1864 to the admission of the Franckean Synod, which was
regarded by the minority of the General Synod as un-
Lutheran and as not having definitely accepted the Augs-
burg Confession, the delegates of the Ministerium of Penn-
sylvania protested (a number of others joining in the
protest) and withdrew. At the next session of the Gen-
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS. 185
era! Synod, being excluded from participation in its organ-
ization, they retired from the body. The Pittsburg, the
New York, the English Ohio, the Minnesota, and the
Texas synods also dissolved their connection with the
General Synod. The withdrawal of the delegates of the
Ministerium of Pennsylvania was approved by that body
at its next session, and a committee was appointed to issue
a " fraternal address to all Evangelical Lutheran synods,
ministers, and congregations in the United States and
Canada which confess the Unaltered Augsburg Confession,
inviting them to unite in a convention for the purpose
of forming a union of Lutheran synods." The proposed
convention was held in December, 1866, representatives
of the synods of Pennsylvania, New York, English Ohio,
Pittsburg, Wisconsin, English district of Ohio, Michigan,
Minnesota, Canada, Illinois, and the Joint Synod of Ohio
participating. "Principles of Faith and Church Polity"
were adopted, and the next year the first convention of
the new body was held. Thus was the General Council
organized.
In the first year of its history the Joint Synod of Ohio
withdrew and the German Synod of Iowa assumed a semi«
independent position, sending delegates and participating
in the debate but taking no part in the voting. This body
still sustains this relation. The withdrawal of the Joint
Synod of Ohio, and, a few years later, of the synods of
Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota, and the semi-independ-
ent position taken by the German Synod of Iowa, were on
account of the refusal of the General Council to give a sat-
isfactory declaration on what are called the "Four Points."
It was the desire of these bodies that some expression
should be given concerning chiliasm, and that the admis-
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J 86 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
sion of non-Lutherans to communion, the exchange of
" pulpits with sectarians," and membership in secret soci-
eties should be unequivocally condemned. The council
would not commit itself fully at that time on these points,
though it has since practically done so, especially on the
questions of pulpit and altar fellowship.
The confessional basis of the General Council is as fol-
lows:
"We accept and acknowledge the doctrine of the
Unaltered Augsburg Confession in its original sense as
throughout in conformity with the pure truth, of which
God's Word is the only rule. We accept its statements
of truth as in perfect accordance with the canonical Script-
ures. We reject the errors it condemns, and believe that
all which it commits to the liberty of the church of right
belongs to that liberty.
" In thus formally accepting and acknowledging the
Unaltered Augsburg Confession we declare our conviction
that the other confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church, inasmuch as they set forth none other than its
system of doctrine and articles of faith, are of necessity
pure and Scriptural Preeminent among such accordant,
pure, and Scriptural statements of doctrine, by their in-
trinsic excellence, by the great and necessary ends for
which they were prepared, by their historical position, and
by the general judgment of the church, are these: The
Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Arti-
cles, the Catechisms of Luther, and the Formula of Con-
cord, all of which are, with the Unaltered Augsburg Con-
fession, in perfect harmony of one and the same Scriptural
faith."
One of the most perplexing questions Lutherans have
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THE EVANGE'LICAL LUTHERANS. 187
had to deal with in this country has been that of language.
It is agreed that the communion sustained very heavy
losses down almost to the middle of this century by insist-
ing that synodical proceedings and church services gener-
ally should be in the German tongue. The children, hav-
ing learned English, desired to have the services conducted
in that language ; failing in this, they joined other denom-
inations. The General Council proposed from the begin-
ning that the different languages and nationalities *' should
be firmly knit together in this New World in the unity of
one and the same pure faith," and declared that " no dis-
tinction of language " must be allowed " to interfere with
the great work" before the church in this country. It
includes American, German, and Scandinavian elements,
but English is the official language of the General Council,
though the German and Scandinavian tongues are also
used. It has many large English churches in the eastern
cities, but a majority of the congregations are German
and Scandinavian and employ those languages. But few
of the ministers are incapable of speaking and writing
in English. All the correspondence of the Census Office
with Lutherans of whatever synodical connection was in
English, and scarcely a score out of the thousands of let-
ters received were in any other tongue.
There are nine synods connected with the General
Council, including one in Canada, which, of course, is not
g^ven in these tables. While the General Council, the
General Synod, and, indeed, most other denominations of
this country, have churches and communicants in other
countries, these churches and communicants are omitted in
the census reports. Only those congregations are included
which are within the territorial limits of the United States.
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1 88 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The General Council has 2044 organizations, with 1554
edifices and 324,846 communicants. Of the latter, 107,-
025 are attached to the Ministerium of Pennsylvania, the
oldest Lutheran synod in the United States. Some 367
organizations hold worship in halls, etc., having a seating
capacity of 30,904. The total value of church property is
$11,119,286, or an average for each edifice of $7155,
which is even higher than the extraordinary average of
houses of worship owned by the General Synod. The
average seating capacity of the edifices is 378.
While there are only eight synods, there are congrega-
tions in thirty-two States and one Territory, Pennsylvania,
of course, maintaining the lead, with 616, or nearly one
third of the whole number, and 124,163 communicants.
The next largest number of communicants, 39,430, is found
in New York, Minnesota coming third, with 27,906, and
Illinois fourth, with 26,860. The Synod of Texas is the
only synod that does not cross State lines. The Swedish
Augustana Synod, though second in numbers to the Minis-
terium of Pennsylvania, embraces in its territory no fewer
than thirty States, being, in fact, almost as widespread
as the entire General Council. Delaware and Kentucky
are the only two States covered by the General Council
which are not also covered by the Augustana Synod.
This body of wide boundaries was organized in i860
with only about 5000 communicants, and is composed of
Swedish Lutherans. The synod is subdivided into seven
conferences, or sub-synods, which meet semi-annually.
The synod itself is assembled yearly. The German Iowa
Synod has five districts, and covers several States.
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS. 1 89
Summary by States.
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Dist. of Columbia . .
Florida
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Massachusetts
Michig^
Minnesota
Missouri
Nebraska
New Hampshire . . .
New Jersey
New York
North Dakota
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Dakota
Texas
Vermont
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Total 2,044 1,554 588,825 $11,119,286 324,846
Summary by Synods.
SYirODS.
English Synod of
Ohio 64 58 20,375 $273,600 8,273
Indiana 31 27 9,010 169,000 3,058
Ministerium of New
York 115 117 47,319 ii942,4io 42,029
Oxgani-
zattons.
Chiisch
Seating
Ca-
padty.
Value of
Chuich
Property.
Com-
muxu-
cants.
7
5
1,175
$62,300
65,800
603
7
6
1,436
519
24
15
5,820
122,400
3,767
2
I
335
10,000
296
I
2
1,400
40,000
600
I
. . .
17
3
2
180
2,450
.11^
■§
122
42,335
809,150
148,100
26,860
34
10,335
3,887
174
132
34,771
420,680
20,009
62
43
11,294
136,830
6,269
4
3
570
6,800
299
I
I
300
2,600
179
12
6
2,110
55,900
1,743
70
58
14,305
153,350
8,710
223
175
52,4*5
624,120
27,906
1,857
18
16
3,584
101,800
88
55
12,181
206,001
7,204
2
2
o75o
13,500
395
30
20
8,785
339,500
7,940
■s
109
43,764
1,915,510
39,430
7
1,210
15,400
1,582
118
108
35,510
483,100
15,915
4
3
675
13,650
305
616
486
268,885
4,993,355
124,163
3
I
300
5,250
420
100
31
5,070
40,125
4,770
42
39
9,810
128,740
7,140
2
174
7
5
1,400
33,950
446
I
I
800
10,000
650
85
66
17,290
158,925
10,072
5
...
580
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'•^-« Ssr^si cT* ch««A
190 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States. — Coniinued.
Seating Value of Com-
Ca. Chnrch muni-
paoitj. Property. canta.
Min Lsterium of Penn-
sylvania 456 347 227,555 $4,3i9»355 107,025
Pittsburg 167 149 47,825 961,800 20,755
Scandinavian Au-
gustana 688 515 156,664 2,600,550 88,700
Texas 39 35 8,4^5 "2,740 6,643
German Synod of
Iowa 484 306 71,592 739,831 47,363
Total 2,044 1,554 588,825 $1 1,1 19,286 324,846
4. — ^THE SYNODICAL CONFERENCE.
The latest and largest of the Lutheran general bodies
is the Sy nodical Conference, organized in 1872 by repre-
sentatives of the Missouri, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota,
Illinois, and Norwegian synods. Four of these synods, the
Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois, had taken part
in the organization of the General Council, but had with-
drawn. The conference was intended to represent a type
of Lutheran confessionalism stricter than that of the Gen-
eral Council, as that of the General Council was stricter
than the General Synod. The following is its confessional
basis:
" The Synodical Conference acknowledges the canonical
Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as God's Word,
and the Confession of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of
1580, called the Concordia, as its own."
The central body of the Synodical Conference, and the
influence which constitutes the peculiar type of Lutheran-
ism which it stands for, is the synod of Missouri, Ohio, and
other States, which was organized in 1847. The nucleus
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS. 1 91
of this synod was a Saxon colony of Lutherans who settled
in Missouri in 1839. When the synod was constituted it
embraced 12 congregations and 22 ministers, but, proclaim-
ing a Lutheranism of the most positive character, it at-
tracted to itself hosts of German immigrants who were dis-
satisfied with the result of the union of the Lutheran and
Reformed religions in the Fatherland, and were pleased
with the absolute and unreserved acceptance of the Augs-
burg Confession required by the synod and with its stem
antagonism to every form of syncretism (union services,
union communions, union congregations), and its insistence
on pure Lutheran literature, pure Lutheran services, and
a pure and positive Lutheranism. Some questions which
most other Lutheran bodies might consider open questions
are not so held by the " Missourians," as they are called.
For example, they maintain that Antichrist is the Roman
pontiff; that their doctrine as to the ministry and the
church is the true and settled Scriptural doctrine, and that
all forms of chiliasm or millenarianism are to be condemned.
They allow no differences on these and some other extra-
confessional points; therefore their type of doctrine and
practice has become known, both in this country and Ger-
many, where it has obtained some favor, as " Missourian."
In 1 88 1 the Joint Synod of Ohio withdrew from the
Synodical Conference as the result of a controversy which
arose on the doctrine of predestination, and was followed
in 1882 by the Norwegian Synod. The synod of Missouri
maintained that predestination to salvation is not due to
God's foresight of faith in man, but faith and perseverance
in faith are included in the decree. The adherents of the
Ohio party opposed this as Calvinistic, and a division was
the result
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192 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The Missouri is by far the largest Lutheran synod in the
United States, and embraces in its territory thirty-one
States and the District of Columbia. It is divided into 13
districts, or sub-synods, and reports 1589 organizations,
with 1261 church edifices, valued at $6,759,535, and 293,-
2 1 1 communicants.
The Synodical Conference has 1934 organizations, 153 1
church edifices, and 357,153 communicants. The average
seating capacity of its edifices is 289, and their average
value $5098. Only 67 halls, with a seating capacity of
4362, are occupied. The constituency of the Synodical
Conference is almost wholly German. Services in Eng-
lish are, however, being extensively introduced, and ex-
clusively English congregations have been founded.
Summary by States.
n*....: Ok^^.k Scaring Value of Com-
"*"»• 2SSr ^6^ Cy- Ch»n± mum-
•«uwH» M^^-^-^—t pflctty. Property. canu.
Alabama 5 5 1,300 $12,200 534
Arkansas 17 13 2, 165 39>345 1*3 1 1
California 12 7 2^075 101,800 1,702
Colorado 6 2 475 22,500 394
Connecticut 8 4 I|900 33»50o 1,405
District of Columbia i i 400 30,000 375
Florida 3 2 270 4>400 209
Idaho I 27
Illinois 250 223 80,144 1,456,630 69,033
Indiana 102 96 32,299 632,260 24,666
Iowa 139 82 18,452 I94i7i5 I3>252
Kansas 71 47 8,974 95.030 5>9o6
Kentucky 3 3 900 9,800 468
Louisiana 11 xi 3,375 59>4oo 2,452
Maryland 14 12 4,862 129,975 3,208
Massachusetts 10 6 1,575 54,000 1,717
Michigan 137 109 33»73i 488,880 27,472
Minnesoto 217 159 36,346 443.70© 3o>398
Missouri 118 112 32,820 613,940 22,121
Montana 2 i 225 10,000 130
Nebraska 135 93 16,788 168,570 12,339
New Jersey 5 5 1,320 32,000 699
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS. 195
Summary by States. — Cmtmued.
"AT«$. 22^ ^ft^ cS-"' ChJ^ muni-
pactty. Property. cants.
New York 67 65 24,406 $i;055,455 22,642
North Dakota 18 5 650 6,050 1,136
Ohio 54 55 18,330 409i975 iSi44o
Oregon 5 3 340 6,300 274
Pennsylvania 26 25 9*697 284,915 6,559
South Dakota 71 24 4,368 20,770 3,097
Tennessee 2 2 550 30,110 227
Texas 28 21 4,680 30*675 3,498
Virginia 4 5 1,275 20,815 399
West Virginia 4 2 300 300 121
Wisconsin 388 331 98,193 i»3o6,303 83,942
Total 1,934 1,531 443,185 $7,804,313 357,153
Summary by Synods.
Minnesota 90 58 14,523 $218,990 12,655
Missouri, Ohio, and
other States 1,589 1,261^366,507 6,759,535 293,211
Wisconsin 237 1983K 58,855 794,988 50,095
En^ish Conference
of Missouri 18 12^ 3,300 30,800 1,192
Total 1,934 1,531 443,185 $7,804,313 357,153
INDEPENDENT LUTHERAN SYNODS.
There are twelve Lutheran synods which are not con-
nected with any of the four general bodies, and are there-
fore called independent bodies. They occupy this attitude
for various reasons. In at least two cases, those of the
Suomai Synod, a body of Finns, and the Icelandic Synod,
the reason doubtless is peculiarity of language ; in other
cases it is differences of view on various doctrinal and
practical questions and in national peculiarities. Some of
these bodies are small, three of them having less than 5000
communicants each, but some of them are large enough to
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194 R^UGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
constitute separate denominations. In 1892 the Michigan
Synod united with the Wisconsin and Minnesota synods
of the Synodical Conference, and a new general body was
thus formed. In 1893 the Joint Synod of Ohio and the
German Synod of Iowa agreed upon terms of pulpit and
altar fellowship, without becoming organically united.
5. — ^THE JOINT SYNOD OF OHIO AND OTHER STATES.
This body was organized in 18 18. It occupied an in-
dependent attitude until 1867, when it assisted in consti-
tuting the General Council, but only to withdraw in the
following year, because it was not fully satisfied with the
position of the council concerning the question of pulpit
and altar fellowship with other denominations. It has ever
been conservative and strictly confessional in character,
and it was for nine years connected with the Synodical
Conference, from which it withdrew in 1881 because it
could not accept the views of the majority concerning the
doctrine of predestination. Since then it has occupied an
independent position. Its constituency is for the most
part German, but in about a third of its congregations both
German and English are used. Like other large Lutheran
synods, it is divided into a number of districts.
While its chief strength is in the State of Ohio, it has
many communicants in Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania,
and Indiana. It embraces twenty-three States and the
District of Columbia, New York constituting the most
easterly and northerly portion of its territory, Texas the
most southerly, and Oregon the most westerly. It has
421 organizations, 443 edifices, valued at $1,639,087, and
69,505 communicants. Only ten of its organizations hold
services in other than church edifices. The average value
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS, 195
of Its edifices is $3700, and their average seating capacity
337. Only 10 halls, with a seating capacity of 785, are
occupied.
Summary by States.
STATES. 9^^
Church
^,
Edificet.
{Maty.
I
250
I
300
16
6,950
11,825
33!
8
1,850
5
1,500
I
700
12
3,620
20
7,672
23
8,700
I
200
7
1,800
2
330
II
2,550
I
300
197^
67,537
I
200
33
10,439
3
1,000
7
2,850
4
750
6
1,250
\o%
2,025
41
14,750
District of Columbia i
Idaho I
Illinois.. 16
Indiana 34
Iowa 5
Kansas 5
Louisiana i
Maryland 12
Michigan 21
Minnesota 21
Missouri i
Nebraska 7
New York 2
North Carolina 12
North DakoU i
Ohio 191
Oregon • i
Pennsylvania 32"
South DakoU 3
Texas 4
Virginia 5
Washington 4
West Virginia 16
Wisconsin 25
Total 421 443 I49>338 $1,639,087 69,505
6. — ^THE BUFFALO SYNOD.
This synod was organized in 1845 by the Rev. J. A.
A. Grabau, who came from Germany, where he had suf-
fered for his opposition to the union of the Reformed and
Lutheran religions. The synod has announced views con-
cerning the ministerial office which other Lutherans have
considered as hierarchical. It insists that ordination, unless
by ordained ministers, is not valid ; that ministers created
Value of
Com.
Church
muoi-
Property.
cants.
$13,000
150
1,000
80
60,000
2,695
160,950
5,095
10,500
650
2,750
472
5,000
500
38,900
1,545
125,700
6,217
37,350
3,180
600
30
4,600
440
2,700
198
6,315
567
750
70
839,272
31,261
600
50
206,100
5,552
2,700
327
20,000
1,730
2,900
175
11,400
386
5,500
779
80.600
7,356
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196 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
by congregations have no divine authority to pronounce
absolution or to consecrate the elements of bread and
wine ; that congregations may not pronounce excommu-
nication ; that obedience is due to ministers ; and that the
synod is the supreme tribunal in the church.
The synod has congregations in six States, with 25
church edifices, valued at $84,410, and 4242 communi-
cants. The average value of its edifices is $3376, and
their average seating capacity 232. Two halls, with a
seating capacity of 275, are occupied.
Summary by States.
Ov^n:. r*k..«..i. Seating Value of Com-
"^"^ m£^ Smm, ^ ffuidi muni-
pecity* Propeity* rents.
California i i 150 $500 26
Illinois I I qoo 2,500 136
Michigan 4 4 848 10,100 342
Minnesota 2 2 300 3>7^^ 3'^
New York 12 10 2,715 48,010 2,268
Wisconsin 7 7 1480 19,600 1,158
Total 27 25 5,793 $84,410 4,242
7. — HAUGE'S SYNOD.
This is a body of Norwegian Lutherans organized in the
period 1846-50 by immigrants from Norway. It took its
name from Hauge, a leader of a strong spiritual movement
in that country. Its followers lay much stress upon con-
version and are noted for their earnestness. The laymen
participate in prayer and exhortation in public assemblies,
contrary to the practice of some other bodies of a more
churchly character. This synod has always occupied an
independent attitude.
It has 175 organizations, divided among eleven States,
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS, 197
but with two thirds of its strength in Minnesota, South
Dakota, and Wisconsin, and 100 church edifices having an
average seating capacity of 306 and an average value of
$2149; 75 halls, with a seating capacity of 4436, are oc-
cupied.
Summary by States.
/v-,-* «. ^. Seating Value of Com-
" ™»- satins. Edifice.. ^^ .^^^^
Illinois 10 8 2,875 $40,400 863
Indiana i i 350 800 29
Iowa 17 14 3,450 27,200 1,593
Kansas i 20
Michigan i i 200 4*000 62
Minnesota 55 41 13,285 99,345 6,534
Nebraska 8 4 725 49950 438
North Dakota 16 5 1,700 4,850 576
South Dakota 36 11 2,955 11,700 2,239
Washington 2 i 350 1,000 205
Wisconsin 28 14 49710 20,150 2,165
Total 175 100 30>5a> $214,395 H>730
8. — ^THE NORWEGIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA.
This body was organized by Norwegian immigrants a
few years later than Hauge's Synod. Like the latter, it
has always maintained an independent position, except for
the short period when it was connected with the Synod-
ical Conference. A few years ago a controversy over the
doctrine of predestination caused a division in its ministry
and congregations, resulting in the formation of what was
known as the Anti- Missouri Brotherhood. The synod
accepted the views of the Missouri Synod, which its type
of Lutheranism resembles, while the brotherhood rejected
these views as Calvinistic.
The synod is divided into three districts. Its territory
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198 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
embraces twenty- two States, stretching from ocean to ocean
and from the Lakes to the Gulf. Two thirds of its commu-
nicants, however, are in the States of Minnesota and Wis-
consin. The average value of its church edifices is $2929,
and their average seating capacity is 287. It occupies 182
halls, which have a seating capacity of 12,115.
Summary by States.
MuvH*. -^ijiir -m paaty. Property. cants.
California 3 i 300 $14,000 189
Colorado i i 300 2,000 75
Idaho I I 150 1,000 45
Illinois 14 6 3»iSo 95>5oo 1,688
Indiana 2 i 300 6,000 182
Iowa 49 26 9i275 97,800 7»o59
Kansas i i 100 200 30
Massachusetts 2 ... 375
Michigan 14 7 1,125 9»9oo 758
Minnesota 164 ii2>i 329843 267,950 21,832
Missouri 2 i 200 400 50
Montana 3 i 250 1,200 165
Nebraska 21 7 1,520 12,200 544
New Jersey i i 225 49OOO 180
New York 5 3 1,050 33,000 784
North DakoU 53 8 2,200 22,975 2,784
Ohio 4 I 150 3,000 184
Oregon 3 i 200 2,500 95
South Dakota 46 13 3,240 25,700 3,030
Texas 4 5 95o 6,700 350
Washington i ... 16
Wisconsin 95 77^ 21,460 200,800 15,037
Total 489 275 78,988 $806,825 S5>452
9. — THE MICHIGAN SYNOD.
This is a German body organized in i860. It helped
to organize the General Council, and was connected with
it until 1888, when it withdrew because the position of
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS, 199
the council on the question of pulpit and altar fellowship
with other denominations was not sufficiently decided.
The synod is represented in the States of Michigan and
Indiana, having in all 11,482 communicants. Its church
edifices have an average value of $3109 and an average
seating capacity of 276. There are 12 halls, with a seat-
ing capacity of 550.
Summary by States.
n*«>.s n«.»^k Seating Value of Com-
• pacity. Property. cants.
Indiana 3 3 1,150 $7»5a> 441
Michigan 62 50 139463 I57»270 11,041
Total 65 53 14,613 $164,770 11,482
10. — ^THE DANISH CHURCH IN AMERICA.
This is the oldest body of Danish Lutherans in this
country, having been organized in 1872. It is connected
with the Church of Denmark, which sent missionaries to
this country, who helped to organize Danish congregations
and a little later to form them into a synod.
It has congregations in fourteen States and in the Ter-
ritory of Utah. Its territory stretches from Maine to
California, forming a belt across the northern portion of
the country. It has 131 organizations, with 75 edifices,
having an average seating capacity of 198 and an average
value of $1741. The total number of communicants is
10,181, more than half of whom are to be found in the
States of Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. The
synod is divided into 9 districts. There are 42 halls, with
a seating capacity of 2175, used as places of worship.
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200 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
STATES. 2SKJ!" SiSi <^ ' c£^ mum-
atuais. Edifices. ^^^ ftoperty. cuita.
California 4 i 300 $1,200 125
Connecticut 2 2 300 2,000 200
Illinois 9 5 1,330 15,100 1,314
Iowa 23 14 3*390 24,800 2,211
Kansas i i 125 800 120
Maine 2 2 400 200
Massachusetts 3 1 19
Michigan 9 8 1,900 i3>7oo 588
Minnesota 17 8 1,230 1I9300 1,032
Nebraska 19 11 1,510 20,100 888
New Jersey 8 5 1,000 6,000 565
New York 5 4 475 11,000 410
South Dakota 11 i 200 1,500 285
Utah 2 48
Wisconsin 16 13 2,600 22,200 2^076
Total 131 75 14,760 $129,700 10,181
II. — THE GERMAN AUGSBURG SYNOD.
This body was formed in 1875. It has 23 organizations,
distributed among nine States. These organizations own
23 church edifices, with an average seating capacity of 329
and an average value of $4829.
Summary by States.
rk*i>.«: r^.»«.K Seating Value of Com-
STATXS. Organi- Chmch q^ • Church muu-
Moow. JMunvo. paaty. Property. canta.
Arkansas i 75
Illinois 4 4 700 $9»45o 631
Indiana 3 2 600 5yOOO 370
Iowa I I 100 1,000 70
Michigan i i 300 SyOOO 174
Missouri 2 3 i»36o 40,000 I9I99
New York i i 700 3>5oo 800
Ohio I 1 1,000 26,800 1,700
Wisconsin 10 10 2,800 20,310 I9991
Total 23 23 7,560 $111,060 7,010
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THE EVANGEUCAL LUTHERANS. 20I
12. — ^THE DANISH ASSOCIATION IN AMERICA.
This association was formed in 1884, chiefly by Danish
ministers, who withdrew from what was then called the
Norwegian-Danish Conference, not because of doctrinal
or ecclesiastical differences, but because of reasons growing
out of differences of nationality.
It embraces 50 organizations, with 33 church edifices,
having an average seating capacity of 173 and an average
value of $1357. There are 15 halls, with a seating capac-
ity of 480.
Summary by States.
OmnU Churoh ^^«
p«3ty.
California 4 2 375
Illinois I
Iowa 6 2 350
Minnesota 14 9 1,675
Nebraska 16 14 2,200
Oregon i
South Dakota 2 2 250
Washington 2
Wisconsin 4 4 850
Value of
Com.
Church
muni'
Property.
cants.
$3,000
144
4,000
50
3,800
413
10,150
1,524
14,625
754
20
2,200
153
40
7,000
395
Total 50 33 5,700 $44,775 3,493
13. — THE ICELANDIC SYNOD.
The Synod of Icelanders was organized in 1885. By
far the larger part of this synod is in Manitoba.
It has in this country 13 organizations, 4 church edifices,
with an average seating capacity of 325 and an average
value of $1800, and 1991 communicants. It is represented
in two States only, Minnesota and North Dakota There
are 9 halls, with a seating capacity of 750.
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202 REUGIOUS FORCES OP THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
Value of Com.
«..«^ Or«ni. Church S«^ring V^ueof
STATES. ^ Edifices. ^: iSi^
Muvu*. MUMURw pacity. Property. cants.
Minnesota c 221
North Dakota 8 4 i>300 $7,200 1,770
Total 13 4 i>300 $7»200 1,991
14. — THE IMMANUEL SYNOD.
This is a small German body whose organization dates
from 1886. It is represented in seven States and the
District of Columbia, having 21 organizations, 19 church
edifices, with an average seating capacity of 279 and an
average value of $4958, and 5580 communicants.
Summary by States.
STATBS.
Organi- Church Siting Y »?«« J^ Com-
_1 *y * * ^:«1_. Ca- Church miuii.
Edifices.
padty. Property. cants.
District of Columbia i i 300 $15,000 500
Illinois I I 300 10,000 300
Indiana i i 150 1,200 180
Michigan i i 600 i5»ooo 500
New Jersey 2 2 550 7fO0o 700
New York 5 3 600 6,000 600
Ohio 6 6 1,600 25,500 1,350
Pennsylvania 4 4 1,200 H^Soo 1,450
TotaL . . . .- 21 19 5,300 $94»200 5,580
15. — ^THE SUOMAI SYNOD.
This is a body of Finnish Lutherans constituted in 1889.
It has 1 1 organizations, 8 church edifices, with an average
seating capacity of 230 and an average value of $1548,
and 1385 communicants, of whom 1265 are in Michigan
and 120 in South Dakota.
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS.
203
Summary by States.
-r*«. Orami- Church ^^«
"^"«- za&ns. Edifices. ^^^f'
pacity.
Michigan 10 7 1,715
South Dakota i i 200
Total II 8 1,915
Value of
Church
Property.
Com-
muni-
cants.
$10,973
1.925
1,265
120
$12,898 1,385
16. — ^THE UNITED NORWEGIAN CHURCH.
This body was constituted in 1890 by the union of three
synods, viz., the Norwegian Augustana Synod, organized
in i860, the Conference of the Norwegian-Danish Church,
organized in 1870, and the Norwegian Anti-Missouri Broth-
erhood, organized in 1887. The Brotherhood separated
from the Norwegian Synod because they could not accept
the latter's views respecting the doctrine of absolute pre-
destination. The union of these three bodies was due to a
movement to bring together, as far as possible, all Norwe-
gian Lutherans in one body. Hauge's Synod and the Nor-
wegian Synod, however, still maintain a separate attitude.
The United Synod embraces eighteen States in its terri-
tory. It has 1 122 organizations, 670 church edifices, and
119,972 communicants, of whom 49,541 are in the single
State of Minnesota. The average seating capacity of the
churches is 277, and the average value $2312. There are
393 halls, with a seating capacity of 29,185.
Summary by States.
e-...i^. Organi- Church
STATES. mttons. Edifices.
Idaho I I
Illinois 27 24
Iowa 1 13 85
Kansas 7 3
pacity.
Value or
Church
Property.
Com.
muni-
cants.
300
6,445
25.335
650
$2,500
68,400
220,100
5.300
1 10
3,298
14,891
314
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204 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SUMMAKY BY STATBS.— CtmiSlVufA/.
Omni. Church Soidng
padty.
Maine
Maryland ,
Michigan ,
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New York
North Dakota...
Oregon
South Dakota . . .
Washington
Wisconsin
2
I
37
405
I
2
13
I
I
162
.J
.5?
283
I
I
44
2
41
10
151
Vakaeof
Cnuicn
Piopeity.
200 $2,000
5»973
76,791
100
250
10,380
650
8,150
2,575
47,443
450
,200
250
2,500
77,550
9,500
54,655
29,600
394,450
Com.
225
42
3,011
49>54i
14
87
285
84
10,283
204
7,922
819
28,717
Total 1,122 670 185,242 $1,544,455 "9,972
INDEPENDENT CONGREGATIONS.
Besides the independent synods there are a number of
independent Lutheran congregations — ^that is, congrega-
tions which do not belong to any synod. In most cases
the reason is not doctrinal, but simply a love of independ-
ence. Not infrequently the pastor of an independent
congregation is himself a member of some synod. They
are found in most of the States and Territories. They
aggregate 231 org^izations, 188 church edifices, with a
seating capacity of 62,334, and valued at $1,249,745, and
41,953 communicants.
Summary by States of All Lutherans.
Omai. Chureh Porting Valaeof Omi-
sMiMw. ouuwo. pactjr. Property. cants.
Alabama 10 7 1,850 $15,400 791
Arkansas 18 13 2,165 39,345 ',3^6
California 39 21 6,575 364,800 4,267
Colorado 21 14 3,236 i54i8oo 1,208
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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERANS.
205
SuMMA&Y BY States of All Lutherans— Gw/Stitftf//.
_, Oiwua- Chinch Siting Value of Com-
"^"^ a£^ E^oa. ^ ^urch mum.
poaty. Property. cmnts.
Connecticut 37 33 8,830 $173,900 5,763
Delaware s i 335 10,000 396
Dist of Columbia 11 13 6,100 414,000 3,997
Florida 6 4 730 9,850 369
Georgia 18 \^ 5,835 134,150 1,933
Idaho 7 5 930 6,950 401
Illinois 590 511 1751O37 3,031,850 116,807
Indiana 379 366 83,609 19330,410 41,833
Iowa 567 400 107,708 1,150,795 63,735
Kansas 305 147 33,688 418,410 16,363
Kentucky 18 17 5,170 60,300 2,394
Louisiana 12 I3 4,075 64,400 2,953
Maine 6 5 1,300 8,600 904
Maryland 131 139 55,6o3 1,081,935 34,648
Massachusetts... 30 15 4,360 114,400 4,137
Michigan 380 307 86,133 1,109,058 63,897
Minnesota 1,141 837 337,935 3,143,805 145,907
Mississippi 11 10 3,750 4,650 533
Missoun 160 148 43,689 890,090 37,099
Montana 8 3 475 11,300 394
Nebraska 387 353 49'949 774,8i6 37,397
New Hampshire.. \ 3 1,000 16,000 520
New Jersey 68 53 18,080 536,750 13,878
New Mexico. . ... 3 64
New York 317 306 117,115 4,693>375 89*046
North Carolina . . 131 118 47>oi3 370,005 13,326
North Dakota .. . 398 75 18,040 136,375 18,369
Ohio 588 573 193,537 3*007,097 89,569
Oregon 31 I3 3,515 59,050 1,080
Pennsylvania 1,3931,105 515,837 9,358,030 319,735
Rhode Island 4 3 600 7,750 590
South Carolina . . 74 7^ 27,525 339.250 8,757
South Dakota ... 432 138 27,783 183,575 23,314
Tennessee 36 53 13,560 91*760 3,975
Texas 88 80 30,840 210,915 14,55^
Utah 4 «4
Vermont 2 174
Virginia 157 136 48,165 344,9^5 12,220
Washington 35 22 5,575 75,95© 1,912
West Virginia ... 47 4i 10,605 1 18,535 4, 176
Wisconsin 894 757 333,570 3,338,138 160,919
Wyoming 8 3 350 6,100 731
Total 8,595 6,701 2,205,635 $35,060,354 1,231,072
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CHAPTER XXVIII.
THE MENNONITES.
The Mennonites take their name from Menno Simons,
bom in Witmarsum, Holland, in 1492. He entered the
priesthood of the Roman Catholic Church, and in 1524
was appointed chaplain in Pingium. Two years later he
began to read the Scriptures, which he had hitherto ignored.
Becoming a close student of them, his views on various
doctrines soon changed, and he was known as an evangel-
ical preacher. Upon hearing of the decapitation of a de-
vout Christian because he had renewed his baptism, Menno
Simons began to examine into the Scriptural teaching on
that subject, and was convinced that there was no Script-
ural warrant for infant baptism. He remained in connec-
tion with the Church of Rome for several years, during
which he wrote a book against the Miinsterites. He
renounced Catholicism early in 1536, and was baptized at
Leeuwarden. In the course of the following year he was
ordained a minister in what was then known as the Old
Evangelical or Waldensian Church. From this time on to
his death, in 1559, he was active in the cause of evangelical
truth, traveling through northern Germany, and preach-
ing everywhere. The churches which he organized as a
result of his labors rejected infant baptism and held to the
principle of non-resistance. A severe persecution began
206
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THE MENNONITES. 207
to make itself felt against his followers, the Mennonites ;
and, having heard accounts of the colony established in
the New World by William Penn, they began to emigrate
to Pennsylvania near the close of the seventeenth century,
that they might have opportunity to worship in peace.
The first Mennonite church in this country was estab-
lished in Germantown. Upon the site occupied by that
church a plain stone meeting- house, erected in 1770, now
stands. The colony of Germantown, which had secured a
tract of about six thousand acres of land, was increased
from time to time by immigration from Europe. In 1688
the Mennonite meeting at Germantown adopted a protest
against traffic in slaves, said to have been the first ever
made on this continent In this protest they say that
many negroes are brought hither against their will, and
though they are black " we cannot conceive there is more
liberty to have them slaves than it is to have other white
ones." The protest, which was sent to the Friends, as-
serted that " those who steal or rob men and those who
buy or purchase them" are all alike. The protest was
finally sent up to the Yearly Meeting of Friends, where,
after some consideration, it was voted not to be proper for
the meeting to give a positive judgment in the case. The
minute of the Yearly Meeting refers to the Mennonites ns
" German Friends."
Successive immigrations from Holland, Switzerland
Germany, and, in the last twenty-five years, from southern
Russia, have resulted in placing the great majority of
Mennonites in the world on American soil, in the United
States and Canada. According to the census reports for
1890, the number of members in this country, exclusive of
Canada, is less than 42,000. This is the first complete
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208 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Statistical statement that has been made of the Mennonites,
and the number of members returned is much smaller than
was expected. In i860 there was a general meeting of
Mennonites in Iowa, and the minutes of that conference
estimated the number of Mennonites in the United States
at 128,000. That estimate must have been a great deal
too high, or the denomination has suffered extraordinary
losses since.
The doctrines held by the Mennonites are set forth in
eighteen articles of faith, which were adopted at a confer-
ence held in Dordrecht, Holland, in 1632. The first article
treats of the Trinity and of God's work in creation ; the
second of the fall of man through the disobedience of
Adam and Eve, who were " separated and estranged from
God, that neither they themselves, nor any of their poster-
ity, nor angel, nor man, nor any other creature in heaven
or on earth, could help them, redeem them, or reconcile
them to God." They would have been eternally lost had
not God interposed in their behalf with love and mercy.
The third article shows how the first man and his pos-
terity are restored through the sacrifice of the Son of God
The next ten articles set forth the doctrines of salvation,
the ordinances, and treat of marriage and the magistracy.
The fourteenth article declares one of the prominent princi-
ples of the Mennonites, namely, non-resistance. It enjoins
believers not to provoke or do violence to any man, but
to promote the welfare and happiness of all ; to fiee when
necessary for the Lord's sake from one country to another,
" take patientiy the spoiling of our goods," and " when we
are smitten on one cheek to turn the other, rather than
take revenge or resent evil." Enemies are to be prayed
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THE MENNONITES. 209
for, and, when hungry and thirsty, to be fed and refreshed.
The fifteenth article interprets Christ as forbidding the use
of all oaths, judicial and otherwise. The sixteenth treats
of the ban, which is for amendment and not for destruction.
Those who have been received into the company of saints,
if they sin voluntarily or presumptuously against God, or
unto death, must as offending members be reproved and
excommunicated. The seventeenth article enjoins the
duty of avoiding those who are separated from God and
the church, not only in eating and drinking, but in all
similar temporal matters ; although if an offending member
is hungry or thirsty or in distress of any kind, it is lawful
to relieve him. The eighteenth article pertains to the
resurrection of the dead and the last judgment The
righteous are to reign with Christ forever, and the wicked
are to be thrust down into the everlasting pains of hell.
The Mennonites believe in baptism on profession of
faith, but they do not baptize by immersion except in one
or two branches, but by pouring. Candidates after having
been under suitable instruction are catechized as to their
faith in God and their desire to be received into the Church,
and then receive baptism kneeling, the minister taking
water with both hands from a vessel and putting it upon
their heads and saying, " Upon the confession of thy faith
which thou hast made before God and these witnesses, I
baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and
of the Holy Ghost." Each candidate is then given the right
hand of fellowship and the kiss of peace, the wife of the
minister or deacon or some other sister giving the kiss to
the female converts. Persons received from other denom-
inations are not re-baptized unless they earnestly desire it.
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210 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
In some cases candidates are baptized in the water, kneel-
ing therein, the minister taking up water in both hands and
pouring it upon their heads.
The Lord's Supper b observed twice a year, usually in
the spring and fall. Church examinations are held before
communion in order to inquire into the standing and
condition of each member. Each member is examined
privately, and asked whether he is at peace with God, with
the church, and with all men, and desirous to partake of
the Lord's Supper. If there are any difficulties between
members an effort is made to have them all settied before
the communion takes place. As the bread and wine are
passed, those who receive them rise to their feet one after
another. Sometimes the communicant goes forward to
receive the bread and wine ; in other cases the minister
goes from seat to seat and from person to person. After
the Lord's Supper the ceremony of feet- washing is per-
formed. The deacons bring in vessels of water, and the
members proceed to wash and wipe one another's feet and
to give the kiss of peace, the sexes separating for this
purpose. The polity is of the Presbyterian type.
Ministers are chosen from the congregations to be served.
A request is made to the conference, and a day is appointed
for the purpose of making the choice. The bishop preaches
an appropriate sermon, and then retires to the council-room
with two fellow-ministers. All the members who desire
to do so visit the council- room, one by one, and indicate
the person of their choice. If only one brother has been
chosen in this way, ordination is immediately proceeded
with. When more than one is nominated, a day is ap-
pointed in which to make choice by lot between those
nominated. When choice by lot is made, the deacons take
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THE MENNONITES. 211
as many hymn-books as there are candidates, and, retiring
to the council-room, place in one of these books a slip of
paper on which is written the words : " The lot is cast into
the lap, but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord;"
or, " Herewith God has called thee to the ministry of the
Gospel." The books are then taken into the audience-
room and placed on the desk or table. After prayer has
been made each of the brethren nominated takes a book,
and the bishop proceeds to look for the lot. The one in
whose book it is found is considered chosen, and the bishop
then proceeds to ordain him with laying on of hands. The
ceremony is concluded with the kiss of peace, which is
g^iven by the bishop and the other ministers.
Deacons are chosen from the congregation in the same
manner as ministers. Their office is to care for the poor
and sick, to assist in administering the ordinances, and to
take charge of public meetings in the absence of the min-
ister or bishop. Bishops or elders are ministers having
pastoral charge of a district, in which there may be one or
several places of worship. All the ministers in the district
are under the direction of the bishop or elder. A bishop
is selected in the same manner as a minister or deacon, and
is consecrated in the same way. When difficulties arise
between brethren they are settled by arbitration. Those
who refuse to submit to arbitration are excommunicated,
and the names of the excommunicated are publicly an-
nounced. The Mennonites do not accept public offices
except in connection with the management of schools.
They are a sober, industrious, and thrifty people, simple
in their habits, and conscientious, devout, and faithful
Christians. More than a third of them are found in Penn-
sylvania, the great German State. They are also strong
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212 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
in Ohio, Kansas, Illinois, and Indiana. The Russian Men-
nonites have formed several settlements in the Northwest
and across the northern border in Manitoba.
There are twelve branches of Mennonites, as follows :
1. Mennonite,
2. Bniederhoef,
3. Amish,
4. Old Amish,
5. ApostoliCy
6. Reformed,
7. General Conference,
8. Church of God in Christ,
^ Old (Wisler),
10. Bnieder-Gemeinde,
11. Defenseless,
12. Brethren in Christ
I. — ^THE MENNONITE CHURCH.
This may be regarded as the parent body. It has nearly
18,000 communicants, considerably more than one third of
the total of Mennonites in this country. Many of its con-
gregations are very small, the average number of com-
municants to each congregation in Kansas being only
about 25. There are 12 conferences, besides 23 congre-
gations which sustain no conference relations. There are
29 halls, with a seating capacity of 1030.
Summary by States.
f^,.„: iT„.^v Seating Value of Com-
•»A"8. 2ESr ^g^ Ca- ChunA muni.
noooB. jMiDco. parity. Property. canti.
Illinois 8 6 1,195 $6,250 273
Indiana 14 10 3yi75 ii>94o 700
Iowa 3 38
Kansas 20 5 1,033 3,030 513
Maryland 5 5 1,700 6,600 336
Michigan 5 3 875 2,200 155
Minnesota 6 4 1,400 3*700 725
Missouri 6 3^ 900 2»90o 199
Nebraska 8 5 1,190 7,250 751
North DakoU i 41
Ohio 27 22^ 8,360 35»45o »>736
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THE MENNONITES. 213
SUMMAKY BY STKi^.^Cantinued,
"^"^ laSonl Edifices. ^ Church mum-
paaty. Property.
Oregon 3 2 400 $1,100
Pennsylvania 114 no 4i>952 221,100
South Dakota 7 6 i^ooo 29500
Tennessee i 1 150 200
Virginia 16 13 6,675 10,925
West Virginia 2 2 600 900
Total 246 198 70,605 $3179045 171078
2. — THE BRUEDERHOEF.
Jacob Huter, of Innspruck, in the Tyrol, is considered
the founder of this branch. Huter was burned at the stake
in 1536. He instituted the communistic idea, which is
still maintained, the members " having all things in com-
mon." His followers were driven from Moravia into Hun-
gary, thence to Roumania, and in 1769 to Russia. The
entire community came to the United States from Russia
in 1874. They are a German- speaking community, and
their books, which are in manuscript, are written in that
language. They are all settled in three counties in South
Dakota.
Summary.
n^MtU. r^,»4. Salting Value of Com-
pttctty. Property. c>nt>.
South Dakota 5 5 600 $4,500 352
3. — ^THE AMISH.
The Amish constitute the second largest Mennonite
branch. They take their name from Jacob Ammen, who
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214 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
separated from the main body of Mennonites about two
centuries ago, on account of differences respecting the en-
forcement of church discipline. He and his followers
insisted that the ban should be more rigorously observed.
In Pennsylvania they are very numerous. They used to
be called " Hookers," because they wore hooks instead
of buttons on their coats. They are represented in four-
teen States, being most numerous in Illinois, Pennsylvania,
and Ohio. There are 33 halls, with a seating capacity
of 960.
Summary by States.
Muvua. JMuovc*. p^Qty, Property. cants.
Arkansas i i 75 $300 65
Colorado 11 80 500 75
Illinois 18 13 3^640 19,600 2,305
Indiana 10 9 2,000 9f8oo 929
Iowa 7 5 1,210 6,700 903
Kansas 12 3 375 1,700 291
Maryland 2 2 350 1,400 125
Missouri...; 3 2 830 4>JOO 316
Nebraska 5 2 470 1,200 504
New York 3 2 400 3,ooo 299
Ohio 12 II 3,725 i7»85o 1,965
Oregon 2 i 300 500 60
Pennsylvania 20 9 1,975 9,800 2,234
Tennessee i 3®
Total 97 61 15,430 $76,450 10, loi
4. — ^THE OLD AMISH.
This branch was the result of a division among the
Amish about twenty-five years ago on the question of
enforcing church discipline. The Old Amish are very
strict in adhering to the ancient forms and practices, op-
posing the innovations in forms of worship and manner of
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THE MENNONJTES.
215
ccmducting church work introduced during the present
century. There are only about 2000 of them, and they
have but one church edifice. Their meetings are all held
in private houses, except in one case.
Summary by States.
™™- Sssi:
Illinois I
Indiana 8
Kansas 3
Missouri i
Ohio 5
Oregon 3
Pennsylvania i
Total 23
Church
Edifices.
Seating
padty.
200
200
Value of Com-
Church muni-
Property, cants.
$1,500 105
853
145
24
694
73
144
$1,500 2,038
5. — ^THE APOSTOLIC.
This is properly a branch of the Amish Mennonites,
differing from them chiefly in being less strict in the ob-
servance of the rules of discipline and forms of worship.
There are only 209 of them, belonging to two congregations
in Ohio.
Summary.
Or^am-
Church
Edifices.
Seating
Value of
Com-
Ca-
Church
muni-
V»^'
Property.
csnts.
Ohio
225
$1,200
209
6. — ^THE REFORMED.
In 1812 a movement was begun among the Mennonites
lor " the restoration of purity in teaching and the main-
tenance of discipline " under the leadership of John Herr.
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2l6 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The " Henites," as they are sometimes called, are very
strict in their observances, severe in the use of the ban,
and decline fellowship with other denominations. They
are represented in seven States, more than half of their
communicants, however, being found in Pennsylvania.
Services are held in 4 private houses and in i hall, with a
seating capacity of 50.
Summary by States.
nM»»; m...^k Sealing Vahieof Cooi-
•TATM. 2ESI.' ^^ Ca. Chuich mum-
niuMH. MunocB. puciQr. Property. caatt.
Illinois I I 400 $2,500 60
Indiana • 2 i 100 700 38
Maryland 2 2 400 1,800 64
Michigan 3 52
New York 3 3 500 2,200 125
Ohio 7 6 1,350 6>35o 426
Pennsylvania 16 16 4,655 39>ioo 890
Total 34 29 7,465 $52,650 1,655
7. — ^THE GENERAL CONFERENCE.
The beginning of this body is traced to a difficulty
which arose in Pennsylvania in 1848, in a matter of dis-
cipline. John Oberholzer was charged with attempting to
introduce new practices and new doctrines. As the result
of the controversy which arose over the matter an organiza-
tion was formed, called the New Mennonites. This body
is less strict than most other branches of Mennonites, and
is in favor of an educated and paid ministry. The Gen-
eral Conference was organized in i860 at West Point, la.
At its third meeting, in 1863, a plan for an educational in-
stitute was adopted, and a theological school was begun
at Wadsworth, O. It flourished for a number of years and
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THE MENNONITES. 21 7
was then discontinued. The General Conference has mis-
sions among the Arapahoe and Cheyenne Indians, in Indian
Territory. It also conducts a number of home missions.
There are three district conferences, the Central, the
Eastern, and the Western. The General Conference meets
once every three years. There are 5670 communicants,
scattered over ten States. The average seating capacity
of the edifices is 323, and the average value $2776. One
hall, with a seating capacity of 50, is reported
Summary by States.
^AT.^ O'f^ Chuich ^^ ^^^ Com.
Illinob I I 450 $1,000 169
Indiana i i 800 SiOoo 405
Iowa 5 5 1,075 5,950 509
Kansas 14 15 5,630 33>«» 2,547
Minnesota i i 400 i>5oo 70
Missouri 2 i 200 1,000 133
New York 2 46
Ohio 3 2 350 2,000 139
Pennsylvania 15 15 4,325 69,500 1,426
South Dakota 2 2 750 2,400 226
Total 45 43 i3f88o $119,350 5»67o
8. — ^THE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST.
This branch was organized by John Holdeman in 1859.
Holdeman claimed by the spirit of prophecy " to under-
stand the foreknowledge of God, to know mysteries, to
settle difficulties, to keep peace, and to interpret visions
and dreams." This branch has only 18 congregations,
with 471 members. It is represented in eight States,
There are 2 halls, with a seating capacity of 1 50,
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2l8 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
STAims. mSSS." Edifices. ^
pacity.
Illinois I .. ....
Indiana i
Kansas 6 2 250
Michigan 3 i 150
Missouri 2
Nebraska i
Ohio 2 . .
West Virginia 2
Total 18 3 400
Value of Com.
Church mum.
JPfopctty. oirtii
3
$1,400 274
200 60
::::: S
22
$1,600 471
9. — ^THE OLD (WISLER).
This branch, which has only 610 communicants, consiste
of those who are opposed to Sunday-schools and evening
meetings and other practices, which they regard as inno-
vations. They are represented by 15 congregfations, in
Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio.
Summary by States.
STATES.
Indiana 3
Michigan 2
Ohio 10
Total 15 12 4,120 $8,015 610
lurch
Sfices.
Seadng
Ca-
pscitF.
Value of
Property.
Com-
muni>
cants.
3
I
8
900
150
3.070
$1,550
700
5,765
146
40
424
10. — DER BRUEDER-GBMEINDE.
This body originated in Russia half a century ago, and
emigrated to this country in 1873-76. They baptize by
immersion and emphasize the importance of evidence of
conversion. They are very active and zealous in the per-
formance of their religious duties. They are represented
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Value of
Com-
Chinch
mum-
Property.
cants.
$4,700
685
2,000
173
3,900
381
750
150
THE MENNONITES. 219
in Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, and South Dakota by 12
congregations, with 1388 communicants. One hall, with a
seating capacity of 40, is reported.
Summary by States.
■TAna. Omni. Church ^^?*
"^™- s2^ Edifice.. pSjy.
Kansas 5 5 1,650
Minnesota 3 3 700
Nebraska 3 2 i, 120
South Dakota 3 3 350
Total 12 II 3,720 $11,350 1,388
II. — THE DEFENSELESS.
The Defenseless Mennonites, sometimes called Egl}rites,
are really a branch of the Amish. They lay particular
stress upon the importance of conversion and regeneration.
Henry Egli was the leader of this movement. It is repre-
sented in Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, and Ohio, by
9 congregations, with 856 communicants.
Summary by States.
Oixani- Church ^*^« ^^"t ^°"
STATB8. iMtoiL Ed^^ ^" Church mum-
zaocnu. jmiuccs. paoty. Property. cants.
Illinois 2 I 175 $1,000 99
Indiana 3 3 1,025 4,875 467
Kansas i i 270 1,300 140
Missouri I i 150 565 18
Ohio 2 2 450 2,800 132
Total 9 8 2,070 $10,540 856
12. — ^THE MENNONITE BRETHREN IN CHRIST.
This body, which originated about 1878, is Methodistic
in its form of organization, in its usages, and its discipline.
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220 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Applicants for baptism are baptized in any form they may
prefer. It has two annual conferences in the United States,
and there are also a number of churches in Canada. There
are 45 churches, with 11 13 communicants. Eight halls,
with a seating capacity of 660, are occupied as places of
worship.
Summary by States.
8TATBS. 2SIS" 21SS. C». Church muni-
Arkansas i 35
Indiana 9 6 SyO^o $3»S<^ 191
Iowa I I 300 500 14
Kansas i 25
Michigan 2 2 400 2,400 49
Nebraska i 15
Ohio 8 8 3,300 6,100 225
Pennsylvania 22 \T)i 4,575 27,100 559
Total 45 34^ 10,625 $39,600 1,113
Summary by States of All Mennonftes.
Arkansas 2 i 75 $300 100
Colorado i i 80 500 75
Illinois 32 23 5,960 3i»85o 3,014
Indiana 51 33 10,050 35,3^5 3»732
Iowa 16 II 2,585 13, 150 1,454
Kansas 62 31 9,208 45, 130 4,620
Maryland 9 9 2,450 9,800 525
Michigan 15 7 1,575 5,500 356
Minnesota 9 7 2,500 7,200 967
Missouri 15 7 2,080 8,565 748
Nebraska 18 9 2,780 12,350 1,664
New York . . 8 5 960 5,200 470
North Dakota i 41
Ohio Tj 60 20,830 77,515 5,988
Oregon 8 3 700 1,600 248
Pennsylvania 188 168 57,482 366,600 15,330
South Dakota 16 15 2,600 11,150 1,383
Tennessee 2 i 150 200 58
Virginia 16 13 6,675 10,9^5 ^
West Virginia 4 2 600 900 102
Total 550 406 129,340 $643,800 4i»S4i
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CHAPTER XXIX.
THE METHODISTS.
Methodism, which counts many branches in Great
Britain, America, and elsewhere, is the result of a move-
ment begun at Oxford University, ]Cngland, as early as
1729, by John and Charles Wesley. Their own account
of its origin is given in these words :
" In 1729 two young men in England, reading the Bible,
saw they could not be saved without h )liness, followed after
it, and incited others so to do. In 1737 they saw likewise
that men are justified before they aie sanctified, but still
holiness was their object. God then thrust them out to
raise a holy people."
The Wesley s, with two others, began to meet together
at Oxford for religious exercises in 1 7 29. In derision they
were called the "Holy Club," "Bibh: Bigots," "Method-
ists," etc. The last term was intended to describe their
methodical habits, and it seems to have been accepted by
them almost immediately, as the movement they led was
soon widely known as the Methodist movement
John and Charles Wesley and Ge«)rge Whitefield were
ordained ministers of the Church of England, and it was
as Church of England clergymen that they began and
carried forward their stirring evanjfelistic work. Being
excluded, as preachers of "new doctrines," from many
of the pulpits of the Established Chi«rch, they held meet-
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222 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
ings in private houses, halls, bams, and fields, receiving
many converts, who were organized into societies for
worship. As their work expanded they introduced an
order of lay preachers and established class-meetings for
the religious care and training of members. In 1 744 the
first conference was held, and thereafter Wesley and his
helpers met together annually. Thus was organized the
annual conference, one of the distinctive institutions of
Methodism. Wesley grouped together several appoint-
ments and put them in charge of one of his helpers. This
was the beginning of the circuit system. He then con-
ceived the idea of increasing the efficiency of his preachers
by frequent changes in their appointments. This is how
the itinerancy came into existence. The itinerancy is
maintained in nearly all the branches of Methodism
throughout the world, though it has been greatly modi-
fied in many cases.
Though the Wesleyan movement was a movement within
the Church of England, and the Wesleys lived and died
in full ministerial relations with it, serious differences arose
between the Church and the Methodists. In 1 745 John
Wesley wrote that he was willing to make any concession
which conscience would permit, in order to live in harmony
with the clergy of the Established Church, but he could not,
he said, give up the doctrines he was preaching, dissolve
the societies, suppress lay preaching, or cease to preach in
the open air. For many years he refused to sanction the
administration of the sacraments by any except those who
had been ordained by a bishop in the apostolic succession,
and he himself hesitated to assume authority to ordain ;
but the Bishop of London having refused to ordain min-
isters for the Methodist societies in America, which were
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THE METHODISTS. 223
left by the Revolutionary War without the sacraments,
Wesley, in 1784, by the imposition of hands, appointed
or ordained men and gave them authority to ordain others.
He ordained Thomas Coke, LL.D., who was already a
presbyter of the Church of England, to be superintendent
of the Methodist societies in America, and set apart for
a similar purpose in Great Britain Alexander Mather, who
had not been episcopally ordained. In England, Method-
ism continued to be a non-ecclesiastical religious move*
ment within the Church of England till after John Wesley's
death, March 2, 1791. In America the separation took
place several years previous to that event
The peculiarities of Methodism are: (i) The probation-
ary system, by which converts are received for six months
or more on trial ; if the test results favorably, they are then
taken into " full connection," and have all the rights and
privileges of ftdl members. (2) The class-meeting. The
members and probationers of each church are divided into
companies called classes, and meet under the care of a
leader for prayer, testimony, and spiritual examination
and advice. (3) Exhorters. Members licensed to hold
meetings for prayer and exhortation. (4) Local preachers.
Laymen adjudged to have " gifts, graces, and usefulness "
sufficient to justify the issuance of a license, subject to
annual renewal, to preach as occasion offers, without giv-
ing up their secular business ; they may also be ordained
as deacons and elders. (5) The itinerancy. There are
rules requiring the bishop or a conference committee to
station the regular ministers every year, and limiting the
pastoral term to a fixed period. In the English Wesleyan
Church it is three years; in the Methodist Episcopal
Church in the United States it is five years, having been
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224 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
successively advanced from two to three and from three
to five. No paste tr can serve the same church or circuit
in the Methodist Episcopal Church more than five years
successively, nor i:an he be returned to it until after the
expiration of anollier period of five years. (6) Presiding
elders. In most American Methodist branches, each an-
nual conference is divided into districts, two or more, and
a presiding elder placed over each. His duty is to travel
over his district, preside at quarterly conferences in each
charge, report tci the annual conference, and assist the
presiding bishop in making out the list of appointments
each year. His term of office is limited in the Methodist
Episcopal Church to six years. (7) Bishops. The Epis-
copal branches \ ave bishops, elected by the general con-
ference for life. They ordain ministers, preside over the
annual conferences and at the general conference, and sta-
tion the ministers, with the advice of the presiding elders ;
they are itinerant and general, not diocesan, officers.
Methodism also has a system of conferences: (i) The
quarterly conference is held four times a year in each
church. It is composed of the pastor, local preachers,
trustees, stewards, class leaders, and other church officers.
(2) The annual conference consists of all the itinerant
preachers (and in some branches of representatives of the
churches) within its bounds. It examines the characters
of the ministejs, elects candidates to deacon's and elder's
orders, and transacts various other business. (3) The gen-
eral conferencj, composed of representatives, clerical and
lay, from the various annual conferences, meets once in
four years. It is the chief legislative and judicial court
It elects bishops and other general officers, creates new
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THE METHODISTS. 22$
conferences, changes conference boundaries, and controls
the administration of the general and benevolent interests
of the church. In some branches a district conference is
also provided for. It is composed of the pastors and rep-
resentatives of the churches of a district, the presiding elder
being the chairman.
In theology, Methodism, excepting the Welsh branch, is
Arminian. Most of the American branches have adopted
as their doctrinal symbol "Articles of Religion," twenty-
five in number, prepared by John Wesley from the Thirty-
nine Articles of the Church of England. In common with
other Arminian bodies, Methodists emphasize the doctrine
of the freedom of the will and universal atonement, and
deny the Calvinistic ideas of predestination and reproba-
tion. Their more distinctive doctrines are those which Wes-
ley revived, restated, and specially emphasized, namely:
(i) present personal salvation by faith; (2) the witness
of the Spirit; (3) sanctification. Upon the latter point
Wesley taught that sanctification is obtainable instantane-
ously, between justification and death, and that it is not
"sinless perfection," but perfection in love, so that those
who possess it " feel no sin, nothing but love."
There are seventeen branches of Methodism, as follows :
1. Methodist Episcopal, 9. Methodist Episcopal, South,
2. Union American Meth. Epis. 9 10. Congregational,
3. African Meth. Epis., 11. Congregational, Colored,
4. African Union Meth. Prot, 12. New Congregational,
5. African Meth. Epis. Zion, 13. Colored Meth. Epis.,
6. Zion Union Apostolic, 14. Primitive,
7. Methodist Protestant, 15. Free,
8. Wesleyan Methodist, 16. Independent,
17. Evangelist Missionary.
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226 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
I. — ^THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
Though John and Charles Wesley crossed the ocean in
1735 and labored in Georgia^ the latter about one year,
the former two years, the beginnings of Methodism in this
country are dated from 1 766, in New York and Maryland
In that year a Wesleyan local preacher from Ireland, Philip
Embury, gathered a few Methodists in the lower part of
New York City for regular worship. Robert Strawbridge,
likewise a Wesleyan local preacher and Irish immigrant,
preached to a small number of people in Frederick County,
Md., at about the same time. The first meetings in New
York were held in Mr. Embury's house ; then they were
transferred to a sail-loft, and in 1 768 an edifice was erected
at a cost of $3000. This was the first Methodist church
in the United States. Its site in John Street is still occu-
pied by a Methodist edifice. Captain Thomas Webb of the
British Army was an efficient colaborer with Mr. Embury.
Mr. John Wesley sent over two missionaries in 1 769, Rich-
ard Boardman and Joseph Pilmoor, to assist in the work of
establishing Methodism in this country. Seven others sub-
sequently arrived. Two became Presbyterians, and only
one, Francis Asbury, remained through the Revolutionary
War.
The first annual conference was held in Philadelphia in
1773, Thomas Rankin, one of Wesley's missionaries, pre-
siding. At the close of 1 784 a general conference met in
Baltimore, December 24th, and the Methodist Episcopal
Church was formally organized. This was in accordance
with the plan of John Wesley himself. The societies had
increased, and the number of members had swelled from
1 160 in 1773 to 14,988, notwithstanding the adverse influ-
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THE METHODISTS. 227
ences of the Revolutionary War; and these societies were
without an ordained ministry and consequently without the
sacraments during the period of the war, the clergy of the
Church of England, from whom baptism and the Lord's
Supper had previously been received, having in many cases
left their parishes. Representations being made to Mr.
Wesley concerning the condition of the Methodist societies,
he set apart Dr. Thomas Coke, a presbyter of the Church
of England, to be superintendent of the societies, and sent
with him to America Francis Asbury and two others,
directing him to organize the societies into a separate
ecclesiastical body, and to have Asbury associated with
him in the office of superintendent.
When the conference was assembled in Baltimore a
letter from Mr. Wesley was read, stating that he had
" appointed Dr. Coke and Mr. Francis Asbury to be joint-
superintendents over our brethren in North America, as
also Richard Whatcoat and Thomas Vasey to act as elders
among them by baptizing and ministering the Lord's Sup-
per " ; that he had prepared a liturgy to be used by the
traveling preachers ; and that as " our American brethren
are now totally disentangled both from the State and from
the English hierarchy," he dared not " entangle them again,
either with the one or with the other. They are now," he
added, " at full liberty simply to follow the Scriptures and
the Primitive Church."
The conference then proceeded to " form a Methodist
Episcopal Church," electing both Coke and Asbury as
superintendents or bishops. Asbury was successively
ordained deacon, elder, and bishop. The order of wor-
ship and Articles of Religion prepared by Mr. Wesley
were adopted, his rules and discipline were revised and
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228 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
accepted, a number of preachers were ordained, and the
work of the conference was completed. The constitution
of the church is generally held to consist of the general
rules of conduct prepared by Mr. Wesley, the Articles of
Religion, and six Restrictive Rules, limiting the powers
of the general conference, which is the supreme legislative
body and the final court The general conference elects
bishops, who hold office for life or during good behavior,
and who preside over its sessions, but have no vote or veto
in its proceedings. They are not diocesan, but general
and itinerant, visiting and presiding over the annual con-
ferences successively, and appointing, with the aid and
advice of the presiding elders, the preachers to the pas-
torates.
The progress of Methodism in the new and growing
nation was extremely rapid. Bishop Asbury (Dr. Coke
returned after a few years to England), who had large
organizing and administrative power, was intensely active
in extending the work as an evangelistic movement. He
changed his preachers frequently, appointed them to large
circuits including several appointments, and raised up a
body of class leaders, exhorters, local and itinerant preach-
ers, by whom the gospel was propagated with g^eat suc-
cess. In 1800 Richard Whatcoat was elected to the bish-
opric, and in 1808 William McKendree also, the latter
being the first native American to occupy that office. In
the conference of 1808 a plan was adopted providing for a
general conference to be composed of delegates elected by
the annual conferences, and to meet once every four years.
In 181 2, when the first delegated general conference was
held, there were upward of 195,000 communicants. In
1872 lay delegates appeared for the first time in the gen-
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THE METHODISTS.
229
eral conference. Though the Methodist Episcopal Church
has suffered heavy losses at various times by secessions
and divisions, it has grown very rapidly, and is by far the
most numerous Methodist body in the world. It has in
this country 102 annual conferences, besides 12 in mission
fields in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Mexico, with missions
in South America, Korea, and other countries.
It is represented in all the States and Territories, except-
ing Alaska. In the following States it has congregations in
every county :
No. of
oouniiet.
Connecticut 8
Delaware 3
Illinois 102
Indiana 92
Iowa 99
Kansas 106
Maine 16
Maryland 24
Massachusetts 14
Na ol
Montana 16
New Hampshire 10
New Jersey 21
New York 60
Ohio 88
Pennsylvania 67
Rhode Island 5
Vermont 14
Of the 2790 counties in the various States and Terri-
tories, it has organizations in all save 585. This number
is made up chiefly of counties in the South where confer-
ences of the Methodist Episcopal Church were not formed
after 1844, when the division occurred which resulted in
the organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South,
until the close of the late war. In the States of Alabama,
Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missis-
sippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas,
and Virginia, the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, is in
fuller occupancy than the Methodist Episcopal Church.
The total of communicants, including both members and
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230 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
probationers (but not itinerant ministers), is 2,240,354.
The total of organizations is 25,861, and there are 22,844
chufch edifices, with an aggregate seating capacity of
6,302,708, and a total valuation of $96,723,408. In ad-
dition to the church edifices, there are 2873 halls, etc,
with a seating capacity of 275,444, used as places of wor-
ship. The average seating capacity of the churches is 276,
and the average value $4234.
An examination of the table by States shows that the
largest number of communicants in any one State is to be
found in New York, 242,492 ; Ohio comes second, with
240,650; Pennsylvania third, with 222,886; Illinois fourth,
with 165,191; and Indiana fifth, with 162,989. There
Are six States in which there are more than 100,000 mem-
bers, and six other States in which the number is more
than 50,000. In the number of organizations and church
edifices Ohio leads and New York stands second. Of
the 102 annual conferences, not including 11 missions, the
largest numerically is the Philadelphia conference, which
is also the oldest. The Philadelphia conference reports
61,645 communicants. The East Ohio comes second, with
59,666; the Ohio third, with 58,089; the New York East
fourth, with 55,724; and the New York fifth, with 53,644.
There are 7 conferences which have 50,000 and upward
each, and 30 which have between 25,000 and 50,000.
The lines of these conferences do not correspond with
those of the States. The New York East conference, for
example, includes parts of New York, Connecticut, and
New Jersey ; the Troy conference includes appointments
in New York, Massachusetts, and Vermont; the Wilming-
ton conference, in Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia ; the
Baltimore conference, in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia,
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THE METHODISTS, 23 1
West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. The con-
ferences are not arranged on a plan similar to that of dio-
ceses in the Protestant Episcopal and the Roman Catholic
churches. Each diocese occupies its own territory exclu-
sively ; but the same territory in the Methodist Episcopal
Church is often covered by different conferences. For
example, there are white conferences, in which the Eng-
lish language is spoken, and there are German, Swedish,
and other conferences having foreign constituencies, which
cover parts of the same territory. The Northwest Swed-
ish conference covers portions of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa,
Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New
York, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The Norwegian and
Danish conference covers portions of the same territory.
So, also, do the St. Louis German, the West German, the
Northwest German, the Chicago German, and the follow-
ing English-speaking conferences : Rock River, St. Louis,
Upper Iowa, West Nebraska, West Wisconsin, Wisconsin,
Northwest Indiana, Northwest Iowa, Northwest Kansas,
Central Illinois, Central Missouri, Des Moines, Detroit,
Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, and Nebraska. White
English-speaking conferences are also overlapped in many
States by conferences composed of colored members.
In the German conferences and missions there are 928
organizations, with 57,105 communicants; in the Scan-
dinavian, 308 organizations and 17,820 communicants.
There are also 25 Spanish organizations, with 1475 mem-
bers, and congregations of Bohemians, Finns, Portuguese,
French, Italians, Welsh, Chinese, and Japanese.
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232 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
Summary by States.
Alabama 318 289
Arizona 12 11
Arkansas 226 167
California 337 306^
Colorado 90 77
Connecticut 219 217
Delaware 187 188
Dist. of Columbia 30 29
Florida 117 105
Georgia 320 302
Idaho 31 26
Illinois 1,903 1,779
Indiana 1,618 1,585
Indian Territory . 32 15
Iowa 1,342 1,215
Kansas i|249 734
Kentucky 435 341^
Louisiana 218 191
Maine 355 290
Maryland 925 887
Massachusetts . . . 394 383
Michigan I1085 894
Minnesota 534 424
Mississippi 398 388
Missouri 905 742
Montana 48 39
Nebraska 649 461
Nevada 12 12
New Hampshire . 134 129
New Jersey 579 554>i
New Mexico 32 21
New York 2,123 2,038
North Carolina . . 287 238
North Dakota ... 131 61
Ohio 2,340 2,296
Oklahoma 36 13
Oregon 203 150
Pennsylvania 2,042 1,931
Rhode Island 39 37
South Carolina . . 335 337
South Dakota . . . 254 140
Tennessee 609 549
Texas 407 346
Seating
p«3ty.
72,580
3»55o
38,243
93i"o
23»3i4
67,527
49i4S5
20,450
22,620
73i4i5
523,698
453,035
3,925
317,406
179,230
77,400
39,500
87,301
234,856
153,722
250,747
92,400
81,038
199,044
8,535
112,603
2,700
40,505
185,485
4,625
614,501
64,487
11,100
685,319
3,100
34,430
595,734
16,835
81,810
31,674
146,470
73,790
Value of
Cbuich
Property.
$248,300
46,100
162,360
2,053,371
931,900
2,123,380
956,300
772,500
219,000
255,940
69,200
7,046,785
4,243,180
9,750
3,344,245
1,912,015
762,090
303,302
1,152,875
3,771,717
5,180,825
3,739,850
1,725,843
245,624
1,835,840
159,850
1,242,200
78,800
614,350
5,009,075
71,200
16,944,350
195,645
^ 139,985
8,749,970
21,400
614,625
12,642,104
495,000
292,235
375,260
665,460
592,835
Com-
18,517
320
10,076
25,527
8,560
29,411
20,412
9,630
5,739
25,400
165,191
111,426
83,288
29,172
15,073
22,996
82,009
58,477
86,958
30,837
31,142
58,285
1,901
41,086
418
12,354
82,955
1,750
242,492
16,433
4,804
240,650
1,224
222,886
6,064
43,200
11,371
42,873
27,453
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THE METHODISTS. 233
Summary by States.— 6V;ifiiMMA/.
pftcity. Property. cuiti.
Utah 31 29 6,205 $223,650 1,048
Vermont 228 195 55185 1 758,800 17,268
Virginia 316 271 421925 329, 144 16,764
Washington 200 146 37*230 652,425 1 1 , 592
West Virginia .. . 827 629^^ 146,900 902,153 48,925
Wisconsin 706 623 I34»9i3 i>79ii900 41*360
Wyoming 13 1 1 2, 190 48,700 773
Total 25,861 22,844 6,302,708 $96,723*408 2,240,354
Summary by Conferences.
Alabama 171 \^\% 32*845 $128,800 7,455
Arkansas 134 95 26,200 114,220 6,295
Austin 33 25 6,605 219,900 1,485
Baltimore 411 403 137*966 3,221,060 41, 195
Blue Ridge 172 130 42,930 77*850 7,492
California 195 183 55*45o 1*263,321 14*429
CalifomiaGerman
Mission 16 16 3*6io 121,400 829
Central Alabama. 153 143 41*135 130,360 1I9317
Central German.. 177 I76>i 38,370 771,000 14,391
Central Illinois. .. 412 384!^ 103,147 1,148,700 29,754
Central Missouri . 158 136 35,305 177,580 8,559
Central New York 313 308 95,375 1,662,650 35*59i
Central Ohio 408 Z^% 118,235 1,260,250 38,893
Central Pennsyl-
vania 581 530 152,200 2,319,495 50*773
Central Tennessee 136 120 28,725 97*435 5*584
Chicago German. 122 115 21,890 369,400 7,873
Cincinnati 371 369 113,660 2,057,200 46,188
Colorado 85 73 22,614 903,900 8,325
Columbia River.. 132 84 19*845 254,250 5,792
Dakota 201 1 19 27,794 325,200 9,774
Delaware 236 228 50,534 315*970 16,877
Des Moines 392 355 96,010 965,900 36,927
Detroit 495 402 >i 118,750 1,920,600 40,189
East German 61 62 17,085 589,900 5*239
East Maine 190 141K 42,105 471,150 10,444
East Ohio 539 535 160,5 10 2,385,700 59,666
East Tennessee . . ^^ 70 12,300 105,900 4*235
Erie 414 4io>i 114,014 i,487,3U 36,796
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234 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Conferences. — Continued.
Oxi^aai-
Florida 67
Genesee 372
Georgia 88
Holston 308
Idaho 31
Illinois 597
Indiana 424
Indian Mission ... 68
Iowa 335
Kansas 242
Kentucky 333
Lexington 151
Little Rock 92
Louisiana 216
Maine 171
Michigan 540
Minnesota 378
Mississippi 19c
Missouri 328
Montana 51
Nebraska 195
Newark 299
New England . . . 246
New England,
Southern 207
New Hampshire . 139
New Jersey 303
New York 466
New York East . . 325
North Carolina . . 115
North Dakota ... 117
Northern German 1 1 1
Northern New
York 312
North Indiana . . . 463
North Nebraska . . 117
North Ohio 323
Northwest Ger-
man 94
Northwest Indiana 343
Northwest Iowa . . 180
Northwest Kansas 329
Chiirch
^«
Value of
Ghorch
Com.
v^-
Property.
cants.
«9
14,790
$86,365
4,425
T
98.095
2,080,150
34,946
15,000
53,350
368,925
3,547
274
83,27s
24,419
26
5yOOO
66,000
1,173
21
156,813
1,657,775
52,934
122,425
858,650
41,424
28
J'^^
31,150
2,062
3"
85,665
725,400
25,059
201
54,810
654,150
21,534
249>i
56,015
476,715
20,653
137
33,785
286,125
10,437
72
12,043
48,140
3,781
189
39,060
296,102
14,9"
153 ^
46,326
697,225
12,689
43,898
44S>i
122,327
1,701,000
300
70,570
1,340,643
23,768
1^
48,023
124,319
14,869
74,860
453,875
19,799
42
9,260
165,350
1,991
196
59,493
89,045
567,250
19,220
276%
3,067,575
42,198
238
102,891
3,989,175
40,884
203
136
300
424^
327
108
302
452
112
318
56>i
166
112
67,288
44,765
101,870
131,608
"7,343
21,557
10,650
12,800
85,2oi
131,315
25,205
98,979
9,160
89,720
41,440
25,495
1,653,200
748,850
2,181,900
4,731,900
5,609,380
"7,795
136,185
257,950
1,309,650
1,291,500
395,650
1,177,880
130,850
977,030
469,800
228,790
24,371
44)488
53,644
55,724
8,941
4,509
4,643
27,540
47,144
9,481
30,435
4,371
33,167
16,292
13,902
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THE METHODISTS,
235
Summary by Conferences. — Continued,
Northwest Swed-
ish
Norwegian and
Danish
Ohio
Oregon
PhiUdelphia
Pittsburg
Puget Sound
Rock River
Saint John River.
Saint Louis
Saint Louis Ger-
man
Savannah
South Carolina . .
Southeast Indiana
Southern Califor-
nia
Southern Illinois.
Southern German
South Kansas . . .
Southwest Kansas
Tennessee
Texas
Troy
Upper Iowa
Upper Mississippi
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West German . . .
West Nebraska . .
West Texas
West Virginia . . .
West Wisconsin .
Wilmington
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Or^ani.
Church
EdifioiL
Sttdng
Car
Value ol
JiJiuidi
Com.
muni.
zatioaa.
l»city.
Property.
cants.
144
116
27,675
$397,100
9,236
M
63
14,320
173,600
4,782
570
167,985
1,453,340
58,089
131
96
24,915
488,625
7,051
371
374
156,921
5,014,220
6l,6i5
45,485
353
345
101,639
2,619,150
368,125
97
78
19,875
6,615
337
ZMH
"5,529
2,946,400
38,674
43
30
6,330
121,125
1,034
359
260
77,225
945,185
24,543
161
154
31,760
491,490
11,100
232
215
8i,'8io
202,590
21,853
33$
337
292,235
43,200
304
303^
91,575
884,450
35,038
114
,r
31,700
633,650
9,836
405
112,110
637,310
30,322
42
36>i
6,800
72,700
2,470
^
7o6)i
51,210
429,375
22,800
289
160
37,050
490,700
21,899
"1
112
26,620
129,850
10,065
238
197
40,340
202,005
14,531
3SS
^H
104,006
2,417,525
43,578
317
77,320
970,455
27,493
202
195
32,955
120,505
16,265
177
148
42,510
496,600
12,621
202
158^
24,725
116,100
8,718
324
3"
66,930
870,522
32,976
126
96^
16,669
265,650
5,554
274
104X
19,425
175,100
9,743
8,932
95
^ ,
20,245
97,730
740
ir
130,500
702,375
42,795
336
55,879
655,550
1,510,837
886,200
16,345
376
372
89,731
58,014
35,592
234
234
17,702
413
360
93,820
1,657,150
38,731
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236 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Missions.
^ . ^^. . Sefttiiiff Vilue of Com-
swivua. »iuw«. piaty. Property. cants.
Arizona 12 11 3*550 $461100 320
Black Hills 23 17 3»55o 479060 831
Nevada 25 26 5»30o 1 16,800 878
New Mexico Eng-
lish 10 8 i>900 42,000 540
New Mexico Span-
ish 25 15 3,225 38,700 1,475
North Pacific Ger-
man 18 17 2,850 52,750 635
Northwest Norwe-
gian and Danish 17 13 2,675 S7>5oo 548
Utah 34 32 6,730 228,150 1,066
Wyoming 13 11 2,190 48,700 773
Total 25,861 22,844 6,302,708 $96,723,4082,240,354
2. — ^THE UNION AMERICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL
CHURCH.
This is a body of colored Afethodists having the same
general doctrines and usages as other branches of Method-
ism. It was organized in 181 3 in Wilmington, Del., by a
number of colored members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, led by Rev. Peter Spencer, a colored preacher.
The church has 42 organizations, with 35 church edifices,
valued at $187,600, and 2279 communicants; 2 halls, with
a seating capacity of 250, are occupied as places of wor-
ship. There arc three annual conferences, with two general
superintendents or bishops, who are elected for life.
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THE METHODISTS. 337
SUMBCARY BY STATES.
Church
Seating VahM ol Coin.
""AIM. ZSS^ v>is«,^ C«^ Church
pndty. Propoty.
Connecticut i i 350 $2,000 80
Delaware 8 7 2,650 579500 507
Maryland 4 4 1,000 6,400 124
Mississippi i i 200 2,000 80
New Jersey 6 6 1,725 149700 385
New York 5 3 975 37,400 288
Pennsylvania 16 12 4,300 65,800 765
Rhode Island i i 300 1,800 50
Total 42 35 11,500 $187,600 2,279
Summary by Conferences.
Eastern District 13 11 3,350 $55,900 803
Mississippi i i 200 2,000 80
Southern District . . 28 23 7,950 129,700 1,396
Total 42 35 1 1,500 $187,600 2,279
3. — ^THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
This branch of American Methodism was organized in
Philadelphia in 1 816 by a number of colored members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. They withdrew from the
parent body in order that they might have larger privi-
leges and more freedom of action among themselves than
they believed they could secure in continued association
with their white brethren. The Rev. Richard Allen was
elected the first bishop of the new church by the same
convention that oi^anized it. In the year 1787 Mr. Allen
had been made the leader of a class of forty persons of his
own color. A few years later he purchased a lot at the
comer of Sixth and Lombard Streets, Philadelphia, where
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238 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
the first church erected in this country for colored Method-
ists was occupied in 1 794. This site is now covered by
an edifice, dedicated in 1890, valued at $50,000.
In doctrine, government, and usage the church docs
not essentially differ from the body from which it sprang.
It has an itinerant and a local or non-itinerant ministry ;
its territory is divided into annual conferences; it has a
general conference, meeting once every four years; has
bishops or itinerant general superintendents, elected for
life, who visit the annual conferences in the episcopal dis-
tricts to which they are assigned ; has presiding elders who
exercise sub- episcopal oversight in the districts into which
the annual conferences are divided ; and has the probation-
ary system for new members, with exhorters, class leaders,
stewards, stewardesses, etc.
The church in its first half-century grew slowly, chiefly
in the Northern States, until the close of the war. At the
end of the first decade of its existence it had two confer-
ences and about 8000 members. In 1856 it had seven
conferences and about 20,000 members; in 1866, ten con-
ferences and 75,000 members. Bishop B. W. Amett, the
ardent and industrious statistician of the church, in noting
a decrease of 343 members in the decade ending in 1836,
in the Baltimore conference explains that it was due to
the numerous sales of members as slaves. According to
elaborate figures furnished by him, the increase in the value
of church property owned by the denomination was not
less than $400,000 in the decade closing in 1866, or nearly
50 per cent. In the succeeding ten years the increase was
from $825,000 to $3,064,000, not including parsonages,
which seem to have been embraced in the total for 1866.
According to the returns for 1890, given herewith, the
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THE METHODISTS.
239
valuation is $6,468,280, indicating an increase-of $3,404,-
280 in the last fourteen years, or 1 1 i.i i per cent.
The church is widely distributed, having congregations
in forty-one States and Territories. The States in which
it is not represented are the two Dakotas, Idaho, Maine,
Nevada, New Hampshire, and Vermont Its members are
most numerous in South Carolina, where there are 88,172.
Georgia comes second, with 73,248; Alabama third, with
30,781; Arkansas fourth, with 27,956; Mississippi fifth,
with 25,439. Tennessee has 23,718, Texas 23,392, and
Florida 22,463. In no other State does the number reach
17,000. The eight Southern States above given report
315,169 members, or considerably more than two thirds
of the entire membership of the church.
It will be observed that of the 2481 organizations only
31, with a seating capacity of 2200, worship in halls, school-
houses, etc. All the rest, 2450, own the edifices in which
their meetings are held. These edifices number 4124 — a
remarkable excess — and have a total seating capacity of
1,160,838, an average of 281 to each edifice. The average
value of each edifice is $1568.
Summary by States.
MMww. "^ ■i-'' paaty. Property.
Alabama 145 274 77,6oo $242,765 30,781
Arkansas 173 333 77,585 233,425 27,956
California 13 15 2,929 24,300 772
Colorado 8 o 2,300 63,500 788
Connecticut 4 4 1,275 16,000 158
Delaware 16 33 7*025 39*500 2,603
Dist. of Columbia 6 7 5,500 117*500 1,479
Florida 152 269 63,445 168,473 22,463
Georgia 334 654 184,592 601,287 73,248
Illinois 74 105 23,799 310*985 6,383
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240 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.— G^if/inMA/.
^.,-. OfiMi. Church ^«^« YS^?^ ^•
IMiaty. Property. camti.
Indiana 36 51 16,450 $138,280 4,435
Indian Territory . 14 22 1,680 2,618 489
Iowa 20 29 7, 1 15 87,365 1,820
Kansas 48 58 14,309 i53iS30 4i678
Kentucky 90 106 39) 100 181,201 13,972
Louisiana 81 115 36,150 I93iii5 139631
Maryland 58 93 29,881 266,370 12,359
Massachusetts... 12 11 5»95o 119,200 1,342
Michigan 21 26 7,155 72,185 1,836
Minnesota 6 6 2,350 30,000 489
Mississippi 122 255 599833 226,242 25,439
Missouri 87 126 27,870 281,289 9,589
Montana 3 2 350 14,000 32
Nebraska 4 4 1,350 62,000 399
New Jersey 54 68 19,510 159,850 5,851
New Mexico 3 3 550 3,300 62
New York 34 29 12,900 231,500 3,124
North Carolina . . oi 147 42,350 112,998 16,156
Ohio Ill 113 40,965 318,250 10,025
Oregon i 16
Pennsylvania 87 112 39,900 605,000 11,613
Rhode Island 4 3 2,050 95, 000 595
South Carolina. .. 229 491 125,945 356,362 88,172
Tennessee 144 236 61,800 461,305 23,718
Texas 138 208 82,850 233,340 23,392
Utah I 7
Virginia 67 102 34,375 187,245 12,314
Washington 2 i 400 4,000 66
West Virginia .. . 3 3 1,050 11,000 216
Wisconsin 3 3 400 40,000 118
Wyoming 3 i 200 4,000 139
Total 2,481 4,124 1,160,838 $6,468,280 452,725
Summary by Conferences.
Alabama 81 175 50,500 $124,345 18,398
Arkansas 62 100 25,590 77>490 9,i74
175
50,500
100
25,590
35,381
100
16
3,329
Baltimore 64 100 35,381 383,870 13,838
California 16 16 3,329 28,300 854
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THE METHODISTS,
241
Summary by Conferbnces.— CVw^ima/.
OrM*;- rkit^k Seating Value of Cora-
—WW... paaty. Property. cants.
Central Texas .. . 20 29 ii»7oo $50,300 39526
Columbia 133 371 65,065 1979415 42,840
East Florida 104 187 459320 122,070 12,797
Florida 48 82 18, 125 46,403 9,666
Georgia 124 260 67,882 127,412 26,963
Illinois 45 77 17,209 107,250 3,796
Indiana 36 51 16,550 138,280 4,435
Indian Territory . 14 22 1,680 2,618 489
Iowa 67 66 i6,455 361,100 5,014
Kansas 52 62 15,659 215,530 5,077
Kentucky 47 58 19,850 81,551 7,434
Louisiana 42 63 18,850 166,385 7,587
Macon 107 226 68,060 287,662 25,568
Michigan 21 26 7,155 72,185 1,836
Mississippi 42 80 23,275 57,3oo 10,270
Missoun 44 56 13,700 216,575 4,917
New England 20 18 9,275 230,200 2,095
New Jersey 54 68 19,510 159,850 5,851
New York 34 29 12,900 231,500 3,124
North Alabama.. 64 99 27,100 118,420 12,383
North Carolina . . 61 147 42,350 112,998 16,156
Northeast Texas . 42 56 19,000 56,575 6,076
North Georgia. .. 103 168 48,650 186,213 20,717
North Louisiana . 39 52 17,300 26,730 6,044
North Mississippi. 80 175 36,558 168,942 15,169
North Missouri .. 43 70 14,170 64,714 4,672
North Ohio 66 63 22,940 229,825 4,446
Ohio 45 50 i8»o25 8M25 5i579
Philadelphia 61 96 30,975 390,550 10,247
Pittsburg 45 52 17,000 264,950 49 1^5
Rocky Mountain . 18 12 3,400 84,800 1,028
South Arkansas . ; 64 137 27,725 75,6i6 9,686
South Carolina . . 96 220 60,880 158,947 45,332
Tennessee 83 130 36,275 338,219 13*423
Texas 32 48 21,400 67,465 6,461
Virginia 67 102 34,375 187,245 12,314
West Arkansas . . 47 96 24,270 80,319 9,096
West Kentucky.. 43 48 19,250 99,650 6,538
West Tennessee.. 61 106 25,525 123,086 10,295
West Texas 44 75 30j75o 59>a» 7>329
Total 2,481 4,124 1,160,838 $6,468,280 452,725
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242 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
4. — ^THE AFRICAN UNION METHODIST PROTESTANT
CHURCH.
This body, which has a few congregations divided among
eight States, came into existence at about the same time
the African Methodist Episcopal Church was organized
(18 16), differing from the latter chiefly in objection to the
itinerancy, to a paid ministry, and to the episcopacy. It
has 2 annual conferences, with 40 organizations, 27 church
edifices, valued at $54,440, and 3415 communicants; 13
halls, with a seating capacity of 1883, ^^ occupied.
Summary by States.
Oxsani- Church
—^^-- Edifices.
SeadDg Value of
Cap Church
padty. Property. cants.
Delaware 6 4 1,250 $9,600 368
Maine i 45
Maryland 8 7 2,355 S>^<^ 1^546
New Jersey 8 6 836 5^940 281
New York 3 60
Pennsylvania 8 8 2, 140 32, 100 852
Rhode Island i 49
Virginia 5 2 680 1,200 214
Total 40 27 7,161 $54,440 3,415
Summary by Conferences.
Baltimore 14 9 2,935 $6,800 1,805
Northern 26 18 4,226 479640 1,610
Total 40 27 7,161 $54,440 3,415
5. — ^THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION
CHURCH.
A congregation of colored people, organized in New
York City in 1 796, was the nucleus of the African Method-
ist Episcopal Zion Church. This congregation originated
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THE METHODISTS. 243
m a desire of colored members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church to hold separate meetings, in which they " might
have an opportunity to exercise their spiritual gifts among
themselves, and thereby be more useful to one another."
They built a church, which was dedicated in 1800, the
full name of the denomination subsequently organized
being given to it The church entered into an agreement
in 1 80 1 by which it was to receive certain pastoral super-
vision from the Methodist Episcopal Church. It had
preachers of its own, who supplied its pulpit in part. In
1820 this arrangement was terminated, and in the same
year a union of colored churches in New York, New
Haven, Long Island, and Philadelphia was formed and
rules of government adopted. Thus was the African
Methodist Episcopal Zion Church formally organized.
The first annual conference was held in 182 1. It was
attended by 19 preachers, representing 6 churches and
1426 members. Next year James Varick was chosen
superintendent of the denomination, which was extended
over the States of the North chiefly until the dose of the
Civil War, when it entered the South to organize many
churches.
In its polity lay representation has long been a promi-
nent feature. Laymen are in its annual conferences as
well as in its general conference, and there is no bar to
the ordination of women. Until 1880 its superintendents,
or bishops, were elected for a term of four years. In that
year the term of the office was made for life or during
good behavior. Its system is almost identical with that of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, except the presence of
laymen in the annual conference, the election of presiding
elders on the nomination of the presiding bishop, instead
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244 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
of their appointment by the bishop alone, and similar small
divergences. Its general conference meets quadrennially.
Its territory is divided into seven episcopal districts, to
each of which a bishop is assigned by the general confer-
ence. There are in all twenty-eight annual conferences,
one of which is partly in this country and partly in Canada
There is also a missionary district in Africa.
The church is represented in twenty-nine States. It is
strongest in North Carolina, where it has 111,949 commu-
nicants; Alabama comes next, with 79,231 communicants;
South Carolina third, with 45,880; and Florida fourth,
with 14,791. There are in all 1704 organizations, 1587
church edifices, which have accommodations for 565,577
worshipers and are valued at $2,714,128, and 349,788
communicants. The average seating capacity of the
church edifices is 356 and their average value $1710; also
114 halls, with a seating capacity of 15,520, are occupied
as meeting-places.
Summary by States.
sta™. Or^ni.Chu«:h ^^ ^^^
••«•••» ^ji^m Edifices. '.^ ^""* .
Muwiw. sMuiwa. pucty. Property.
Alabama 336 3151^ 118,800 $305,350 79*231
Arkansas 29 23 8,800 i7>25o 3,601
California 13 6 2,600 37^200 2,627
Connecticut 12 10 2,900 79>35o 1,012
Delaware 2 i 115 500 158
District of Columbia 6 6 3>4oo 298,800 2,495
Florida 61 61 23,589 90,745 14,791
Georgia 70 62 19,775 52,360 12,705
Illinois 5 5 2,000 13,400 434
J?<iiana 5 5 2,400 54,700 i,339
Kentucky 55 52 13,075 86,830 7,217
Louisiana 21 19 5,200 12,920 2,747
Maryland 13 10 2,375 i7»35o 1,211
Massachusetts 7 6 2,050 58,800 724
Michigan 6 4 650 3,200 702
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THE METHODISTS. 245
Summary by States. — Continued,
OrPBBi. Chim^ ootting vamaoi
8TATSS. aoonfc B^SS^ Car Church muni-
Sesdng Vahia of Com-
Car Church muni-
pacity. Property* cants.
,pi 64 50 22,350 $22,975 8,519
Missoun 6 6 3»900 6,000 2,037
New Jersey 25 24 7,400 107,700 2,954
New York 47 47 i7>ooo 37»>4oo 6,668
North Carolina 541 526^ I7i;430 4SS>7ii iii,949
Ohio 8 5 1,160 i3>ooo 194
Oregon 2 2 300 20,000 275
Pennsylvania 62 55 17,625 256, 150 8,689
Rhode Island 3 i 400 2,000 401
South Carolina 130 128 66,770 126,^25 45,880
Tennessee 55 52 21,093 78,813 ",434
Texas 47 38 11,500 26,450 6,927
Virginia 72 66 16,770 68,449 » ii765
Wisconsin i i 150 400 102
Total 1,704 1,587 565»577 $2,714,128 349.788
6. — THE ZION UNION APOSTOLIC CHURCH.
This body was organized at a meeting held at Boydton,
Va, in 1869. It is said that most of those concerned in
instituting it had not previously belonged to any regular
body. Its discipline is very similar to that of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church, except that it is much briefer. Its
system includes bishops, annual conferences and a general
conference, itinerant ministers, local preacliers, class-meet-
ings, etc. ; I hall, with a seating capacity of 100, is occupied.
Summary by States.
dmrch
:difioes.
3
24
Seating
Ca-
pacity.
900
9,200
ValoeoT
Church
Propevtf.
$1,900
13,100
27
10,100
$15,000
Com-
North Carolina .... 3 3 900 $1,900 135
Virginia 29 24 9,200 13,100 2,211
Total 32 27 10,100 $15,000 2,346
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246 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
7. — ^THE METHODIST PROTESTANT CHURCH.
This branch of Methodism was organized in 1830 by
ministers and members who had been expelled, or had
seceded from the Methodist Episcopal Church. It was
the outcome of a movement for a change in certain features
of the government of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In
1824 a Union Society was formed in Baltimore having this
object in view, and a periodical called The Mutual Rights
was established to advocate it The chief reform insisted
upon was the admission of the laity to a share in the gov-
ernment of the church. The annual and general confer-
ences were composed entirely of ministers, and the laymen
had no place or voice in either. A convention held in 1827
resolved to present a petition to the general conference
of 1828 £Lsking for lay representation. The conference
returned an unfavorable reply to the petitioners. This
only served to intensify the feeling. The Union Society
entered into a campaign for " equal rights," and so gjreat
an agitation resulted that the leaders of the movement
came to be regarded as disturbers of the peace. Some of
them were brought to trial and expelled from the church.
All efforts to have them restored having failed, many
sympathizers withdrew from the church, and in 1828 a
convention of the disaffected was held in Baltimore, and a
provisional organization formed. Two years later (Novem-
ber 2, 1830) another convention was held and the Meth-
odist Protestant Church was constituted. It began its
separate existence with 83 ministers, and about 5000 mem-
bers. In the first four years it increased its membership
enormously. While equal rights were insisted upon in the
new constitution, as between ministers and laymen, the
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THE METHODISTS. 247
right of suffrage and eligibility to office was restricted to
the whites. When the antislavery agitation began in the
new branch some years later, the northern and western
conferences raised an objection to the retention of the
word "white" in the constitution. They also protested
against any toleration of slavery by the church. Failing
to secure such changes as they desired, they held a con-
vention in Springfield, 111., in 1858, and resolved to suspend
all relations with the Methodist Protestant Church. Later
they united with a number of Wesleyan Methodists and
formed the Methodist Church. After the close of the war
negotiations for a reunion were begun, and in 1877 the
two branches — the Methodist and the Methodist Protestant
■ — were made one under the old title.
The Methodist Protestant Church is strongest numeric-
ally in the States of Ohio, North Carolina, Maryland, and
West Virginia. It is represented in most of the border
and Southern States, but is not widely diffused among the
Northern and Western States. At the reunion in 1877
there were in the Methodist branch 58,072 communicants;
in the Methodist Protestant branch 58,470, making a total
of 116,542. The increase since then has amounted to
25,447, the membership in 1890 aggregating 141,989.
They have not, however, been incorporated in the disci-
pline. The average seating capacity of its edifices is 297,
and their average value $1914. There are 575 halls, with
a seating capacity of 80,025, used as places of worship.
In doctrine, the Methodist Protestant does not differ
from the Methodist Episcopal Church, except that it has
twenty-nine instead of twenty-six articles of religion. The
general conference of 1888 appointed a committee to revise
the doctrinal symbol. The committee made the revision
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248 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
in 1890, adding five new articles, with the following titles:
" Free Grace/' " Freedom of the Will," " Regeneration,"
" Sanctification," and "Witness of the Spirit" The re-
vised articles were submitted to the annual conferences for
amendment and approval, but have not been adopted.
Summary by States.
Of^^ani-
Alabama 77
Arkansas 118
Connecticut 3
Delaware 22
District of Columbia 9
Florida 11
Geor^ 80
Illinois 135
Indiana 132
Indian Territory ... 16
Iowa 61
Kansas 32
Kentucky 40
Louisiana 26
Maryland 174
Michigan 120
Minnesota 5
Mississippi 75
Missouri 90
Nebraska 34
New Jersey 39
New York 90
North Carolina 199
Ohio 234
Oregon i
Pennsylvania 172
South Carolina 42
Tennessee 40
Texas 158
Virginia 57
Washington 6
West Virginia 230
Wisconsin i
Total 2,529
Church
Edifices.
51
3
22
8
5
73
I
S5
94
5
9
ft
189
226^
I
129
42
36^
31
'I
H2H
Seating
Ca-
pMity.
I9»595
14,650
530
5.0I5
3,225
i.3<»
21,050
25,840
33,885
200
"»325
4,550
6,050
7,550
44,993
231035
1,000
17,095
11,025
1,150
12,625
27,690
70,205
68,945
200
44,567
11,495
11,350
9,800
15,650
42,676
150
Value of
Church
Properly.
$79,850
15.360
5,000
51,600
168,825
2,400
33»475
115,765
142,875
300
84,900
33>77o
8,500
6,850
654,625
161,702
3,000
16,175
29,900
8,450
181,950
293,000
126,800
441,000
1,200
641,575
21,095
25,950
16,700
94,000
62,800
153,545
400
Com-
4,432
3>946
154
1,551
831
350
4,390
5i502
7,033
278
5.645
1,890
1,822
1,231
13.283
4,5"
137
3,147
''m
3,459
4,759
14,351
18,931
IS
10,081
2,665
2,880
5,536
4,154
10,652
12
1,924 571,266 $3,683,337 141,989
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THE METHODISTS.
249
Summary by Conferences.
Oiipoi- Church S^mg
]Mat7.
Alabama 73 69 18,895
Alabama Colored
Mission 4 4 1,000
Arkansas 81 50 I4i300
Baltimore Colored
Mission 7 5 1,300
Central Texas 62 6 3> 100
Colorado-Texas... 71 5 1,650
Florida Mission ... 11 5 i ,300
Fort Smith Mission 51 7 2,200
Genesee 18 16X 3j935
Georgia 50 45 15,650
Georgia Colored . . 29 '27 5,200
Indiana 130 107^ 33>i35
Indiana Mission. . . 16 i 200
Iowa 61 55 ii>325
Kansas 32 19 4,550
Kentucky 36 12 4^800
Louisiana 20 17 5)700
Maryland 254 250^ 68, 183
Michigan 92 68^ 16,635
Minnesota 5 c 1,000
Mississippi 50 48 9»495
Missouri 53 22 5,825
Muskingum 109 io5>^ 34,255
Nebraska 34 9 1,150
New Jersey 35 35 10,775
New York 27 27 9,535
North Carolina ... 193 183 68,205
North Illinois 58 45 11 ,465
North Mississippi . 27 26 8,150
North Missouri ... 29 16 5,200
Ohio 115 112 32,290
Onondaga 54 43^ 16,850
Oregon 7 7 2,750
Pennsylvania 59 27 8,450
Pittsburg 96 85 3"i257
South Carolina ... 37 37 io>55o
South Carolina
Colored 14 14 4»045
South Illinois 78 A9H H>S^S
Valoeof
Church
Property.
Com.
$78,850 3,932
1,000
14,825
16,125
6,000
1,900
2,400
2,335
43,900
22,100
">325
140,225
300
84,900
33»77o
6,300
5,050
1,031,025
121,777
3»ooo
8,125
17,200
216,800
8,450
125,450
172,475
124, 100
76,450
8,400
12,700
195,100
ii9»4oo
64,000
41,000
575,650
18,950
6,995
39>7i5
500
2,868
230
2,163
1,424
350
1,522
936
3»o67
•a\
278
1,890
1,585
917
i9»473
3,352
137
1,910
2,155
9,!
3,028
2,179
13,876
2,470
1,335
1,074
8,134
2,304
330
1,346
7,817
2,132
1,160
3,044
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250 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Conferences. — Continued,
9gf!^ as^ ^' oSSa ^^
psdty. Propoty.
Tennessee 33 33 9,750 $18,000 1,850
Texas 25 19^ 5,050 8,800 1,949
Virginia 34 3 ' 7,5oo 18,450 2,943
West Michigan .. . 32 29^ 7,40O 43,175 i»30i
West Virginia 227 143^ 42,736 136,845 10,427
Total 2,529 1,924 571,266 $3,683,337 141,989
8. — ^THE WESLEYAN METHODIST CONNECTION OF
AMERICA.
In this title " Connection " is used in a sense common
to Methodism, especially British Methodism. It indicates
congregations bound together by the same doctrinal and
ecclesiastical ties. This body was organized in 1843 by
ministers and members of the Methodist Episcopal Church
in consequence of dissatisfaction with the attitude of that
body toward slavery and with some of the features of its
governmental system. It began with about 6000 members,
most of whom were in the State of New York. In doc-
trine it does not differ from other branches of Methodism.
It refuses to receive as members those who belong to secret
societies, and as long as the institution existed, it main-
tained the same bar against those connected with slavery.
It has twenty-two annual conferences, with ministerial and
lay members, and a general conference, the chief legislative
body of the church, which meets quadrennially. There is
no itinerancy, as in most other Methodist bodies, but pas-
torates are arranged by mutual agreement of ministers and
congregations, and are not limited to a term of years. It
has 565 organisations, in twenty-two States, with 16,492
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THE METHODISTS,
2SI
members, of whom nearly one fourth, or 3913, are in New
York ; Michigan second, with 2942 ; and Indiana third, with
2199 members. The average value of the 342 houses of
worship is $1151, and the average seating capacity is 252.
There are 213 halls, with a seating capacity of 18,483.
Summary by States.
IS
22
I
143
5
2
6
California
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Massachusetts . . .
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nebraska
New Jersey 3
New York 114
North Carolina .... 8
Ohio 45
Oregon 4
Pennsylvania 41
South Dakota 23
Tennessee 14
Vermont 6
Washington 3
West Virginia i
Wisconsin 19
Church
Edifices.
I
44
8
63^
4
2
75
7
40
I
30
5
9
5
I
I
12
Seating
Ca-
pacity.
250
3.«25
I3»030
4.015
2.325
14.120
625
5°2
19.038
1,980
".391
250
7.205
900
2,650
1.225
200
500
2.225
Vdneof
^Church
Property.
$750
24,900
37,900
16,500
14,350
58,475
1,300
2,650
135,950
1,675
46,500
1,200
25,300
5,200
2,050
6,850
600
1,500
9,600
Com-
41
643
2,199
840
566
8
2,942
207
50
78
65
3,913
1,657
61
1,195
458
462
259
35
245
427
Total 565 342 86.254 $393,250 16,492
Summary by Conferences.
CONFBUMCBS.
Allegheny 34
Central Ohio 19
Champlain 39
Dakota 23
Illinois 19
Indiana 58
Iowa 26
30
7,530
$37,100
18
5,141
13,800
27
6,750
43,950
5
900
5,200
17
3,825
24,900
44 ^
13,030
37,900
16^
4,015
16,500
1,207
784
1,444
458
643
2,199
840
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252 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Conferences. — Continued,
nrsanL riiiiwrh Seating VsIuC of CoOl-
pscity. Propaty. cuti.
Kansas i8 6 1,525 $10,150 464
Lockport 30 21 5,350 27,750 896
Miami 17 15 4,325 15,400 714
Michigan 78 46 10,520 49*250 1,979
Minnesota 5 4 625 1,300 207
Nebraska 6 78
New York 12 4 77^ 5,250 239
North Carolina 8 7 1,980 1,675 141
North Michigan ... 65 17^ 3,600 9,225 963
Pacific 9 3 700 2,550 137
Rochester 36 23 6,087 49i i«> ' .099
South Kansas 6 2 800 4,3oo 152
Syracuse 24 15X 3,900 26,400 959
Tennessee 14 9 2,650 2,050 462
Wisconsin 19 i\}i 2,225 9»^ 427
Total 565 342 86,254 $393>25o 16,492
9. — ^THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH.
This body was organized at a convention held in Louis-
ville, Ky., in 1845, by annual conferences in the South,
which had accepted a plan of separation adopted by the
general conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church at
its meeting in New York in 1844. The cause of separa-
tion was the slavery questioa
This question, which gave rise to much discussion and
several divisions among Methodists, engaged their atten-
tion as early as 1 780, four years before American Method-
ism was given organized form. A conference held in
Baltimore in 1 780 took action requiring traveling preachers
who held slaves to set them free, and advising lay slave-
holders to do likewise. In 1 789 the following appeared
in the discipline among the rules prohibiting certain things:
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THE METHODISTS. 253
" The buying or selling the bodies and souls of men,
women, or children, with an intention to enslave them."
The conference of 1 784, which organized the Methodist
Episcopal Church, deemed it a " bounden duty " to take
effective measures to "extirpate this abomination from
among us." It accordingly insisted that all those holding
slaves should adopt a system of manumission, failing in
which they should be excluded from the church, and that
in future no slaveholder should be admitted to the church
until he had ceased to hold slaves. In 1800 the disci-
pline provided that any minister becoming a slaveholder
must, if legally possible under the laws of the State in
which he lived, emancipate his slaves or " forfeit his min-
isterial character." In 18 16 the general conference de-
clared slaveholders ineligible to any official station in the
church, except in States where the laws did not " admit of
emancipation and permit the liberated slave to enjoy free-
dom." These provisions could not be observed in some
of the States in the South, and were not insisted on in the
Carolinas, Georgia, and Tennessee. In 1808 the general
conference directed that a number of disciplines, "with
the section and rule on slavery left out," be printed for use
in South Carolina
About twenty-five years later the antislavery agitation
in the North began to affect Methodism. The general
conference of 1836 exhorted the members of the church
" to abstain from all abolition movements and associations,"
and censured two of its members for taking part in an
antislavery meeting. In the South the rule concerning the
connection of ministers with slavery had not been enforced,
except in six of the border conferences. The episcopacy,
however, had been kept free from any conflict with slave-
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254 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
holding. While the Northern conferences would not have
received a slaveholding bishop, the Southern conferences
could not agree that slaveholders ought to be excluded
from the episcopacy. A serious conflict arose, therefore,
when Bishop Andrew, a Southern man who was elected
bishop in 1832, became by marriage, in January, 1844, a
slaveholder. At the general conference held in May of
that year in New York City, after a long discussion, it was
declared by a vote of 1 1 1 to 69 to be the sense of the
conference that Bishop Andrew " desist from the exercise
of his office so long as he is connected with slavery." The
Southern delegates protested against this action, and in-
sisted that under the circumstances the "continuance of
the jurisdiction of this general conference" over the con-
ferences in the slaveholding States was " inconsistent with
the success of the ministry " in those States. The outcome
was the adoption of a report of a committee of nine em-
bodying a plan of separation to become operative, if the
thirteen annual conferences in the slaveholding States
should " find it necessary to unite in a distinct ecclesias-
tic£Ll connection, and if the various annual conferences by a
three-fourths vote should so change the constitution as to
allow of a division of the property of the Book Concern."
The action of the general conference was followed, in the
South, by a convention in Louisville, Ky., in May, 1845,
representing the thirteen annual conferences which had
expressed their approval of the plan of separation. This
convention declared the conferences represented a distinct
body under the title, " The Methodist Episcopal Church,
South." Two bishops, Andrew and Soule, cast their lot
with the Southern church, the former in 1845, the latter
at the first general conference in 1846. The Northern
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THE METHODISTS. 255
annual conferences disapproved the plan of separation, and
the general conference of 1848 declared it null and void.
A suit for a division of the property according to the
plan of separation was prosecuted, and the Supreme Court
of the United States, in 1854, decided it in favor of the
Southern church. A fraternal messenger sent by the lat-
ter to the Northern general conference of 1848 was not
received officially by that body. It was not until after the
Civil War (1876) that fraternity was established between
the two churches.
The Southern church lost more heavily during the years
of the war than the Northern. The latter had in 1864
about 68,000 fewer members than in i860, the decrease
occurring chiefly in the border conferences. The former
lost between the years i860 and 1866 113,000 white
members, while its colored membership, aggregating 207,-
766, dwindled to 78,742. Most of the colored members
went, at the close of the war, into the Methodist Episcopal
Church (which extended its operations into the South), and
into the African Methodist Episcopal and African Method-
ist Episcopal Zion churches. In 1870 nearly all the re-
maining colored members were organized into the Colored
Methodist Episcopal Church. There are now only about
500 colored members in the Methodist Episcopal Church,
South, and these are scattered among 27 annual confer-
ences. In the Indian Mission Conference about 3500 of
the 10,498 members are Indians. The Southern church
reorganized its shattered forces at the close of the war, and
in a few years was again in the full tide of prosperity. Its
growth in the last decade has been rapid.
The Methodist Episcopal Church, South, has the same
articles of religion, the same system of conferences, annual
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256 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
and general, and substantially the same discipline as the
Methodist Episcopal Church. It differs from the latter in
admitting lay delegates (four from each district) to the
annual conferences; in making lay equal to ministerial
representation in the general conference; in giving the
bishops a modified veto over legislation which they may
deem unconstitutional ; and in abolishing the probationary
term of six months for candidates for membership. The
changes respecting lay ddeg^ation and the probationary
system were adopted in 1866. The pastoral term was in
the same year extended from two to four years.
There are 45 annual conferences, covering the entire
country south of the 40th parallel of latitude, which nearly
corresponds with Mason and Dixon's line, and also parta
of Oregon, Montana, Idaho, and Washington; but the
number of congregations in these States is not large. Nor
are there many congregations in the southern portions ol
Indiana and Illinois. The church is strongest in Texas,
where it has 139,347 members; in Georgia, where it has
134,600; and in Tennessee, where the number reaches
121,398. There are in all 1,209,976 members, with 15,017
organizations, and 12,688 edifices, which are valued at
$18,775,362. Of the congregations, 1634 meet in halls,
etc., which have a seating capacity of 190,777. The aver-
age seating capacity of the church edifices is 265, and the
average value $1480.
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THE METHODISTS. 35/
Summary by States.
Oinm. Church ^^% Ytf"* ?f ^^
*-«•»«»«. pacity. Propaty. canti.
Alabama 1,101 1,050 243,735 $1,123,523 87,912
Arizona 11 6 i>i5o 12,000 336
Arkansas 1,033 809 203,069 708,895 71,565
California 175 97^ 23,210 446,010 7,497
Colorado 26 16 3,41 1 100,300 1,299
Dist of Columbia 4 3 1,67c 61,400 953
Florida 389 347 61,538 333^824 25,362
Georgia 1,286 1,2721^322,856 1,661,410 134,600
Idaho. II 4 700 5,000 221
Illinois 154 108 26,450 123, 183 7,109
Indiana 10 8 1,850 13, 100 945
Indian Territory.. 275 134 24,455 59,6oo 9,693
Iowa 8 7 1,800 9,200 730
Kansas 83 4o>i 10,300 83,450 3,346
Kentucky 989 827 239,410 i,539>567 82,430
Louisiana 316 296^ 49i7S5 483j47o 24,874
Maryland 142 135^ 30,470 361,990 10,604
Mississippi 903 854 207,760 9031563 74,785
Missouri 1,230 921 264,788 2,046,389 86,460
Montana 23 13 2,920 74,ooo 492
Nebraska 8 6 1,275 10,800 206
New Mexico 25 18 2,850 32,600 548
North Carolina.. . 1,288 1,2031^380,500 1,471,135 114,385
Oklahoma 15 7 1,550 16,150 805
Oregon 70 40 7,960 50,850 1,936
Pennsylvania 14 12 2,475 11,400 635
South Carolina... 686 678 196,808 796,840 68,092
Tennessee 1,367 1,258 376,483 1,994*382 121,398
Texas 1,701 1,076 296,578 1,647,866 139,347
Virginia 1,172 1,107 285,735 2,183,565 105,892
Washington 20 11 2,385 27,650 449
West Virginia .. . 482 321 83,765 382,250 25,064
Total 15^17 12,688 3>359>466 $18,775,3^ 1,209,976
Summary by Conferences.
Alabama 509 502 109,920 $567,360 39,574
Arkansas 333 203 55,985 I99>596 23,134
Baltimore 561 482 120,550 977,965 41,070
Columbia 44 29 5,260 32,650 1,280
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258 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary bt Confb&bncss. — Continued,
0.,am. Chmch Spring Vjlueof Co..
niiOM. Edifices. . Umidi mum-
Denver 28 17 3,561 $101,100 1,395
East Columbia.. . 56 2^yi 5,585 48,850 1,301
East Texas 219 210 47,925 2141825 22,050
Florida 322 280 53>34o 309>024 20,420
German Mission . 22 2i}i 4>6oo 42^350 1,325
Holston 624 542 165,370 904,800 43,014
Illinois 163 115 28,050 I33>783 7»854
Indian Mission .. . 290 141 26,005 75^750 10,498
Kentucky 332 278 >i 80,565 692,900 27, 1 14
Little Rock 456 391 92,845 326,217 28,016
Los Angeles 46 31 6,900 i57j735 2,072
Louisiana 250 242 >< 37>i55 USMl 20,379
Louisville 488 4i9>i 1 191 100 691,967 40,427
Memphis 491 484 135,728 704,620 49,436
Mexican Border
Mission 22 14 2,125 24,075 1,041
Mississippi 463 418 100,207 4i3»690 38,173
Missouri 468 401 107,520 740,264 36,965
Montana 24 14 3,120 76,000 517
New Mexico 27 19 2,950 38,200 535
North Alabama . . 657 613 141,255 580,513 53,210
North Carolina . . 602 557 160,715 712,975 52,643
North Georgia .. . 737 734 198,176 1,041,680 82,921
North Mississippi . 508 492 120,703 527,948 41,177
North Texas 458 285 83,800 417,928 42,013
Northwest Texas. 610 275 86,730 439,386 45,208
Pacific 139 72 17,310 298,275 5,722
Saint Louis 339 225 72,965 615,975 20,684
South Carolina . . 686 678 196,808 796,840 68,992
South Georgia .. . 546 535>i ^22,980 617,230 51,395
Southwest Mis-
souri 43 1 301 >i 86, 103 699,350 29,547
Tennessee 608 558 166,460 881,832 59,999
Texas 190 157 43>86o 335>777 I5>237
Virginia 710 702 177,055 1,474,580 69,826
Western 91 46^ 1 1,575 94,250 3»552
Western North
Carolina 646 607 199,635 689,960 57,594
Western Virginia . 400 241 68,285 279,000 20,722
West Texas 177 113 27,438 169,125 12,429
White River 244 216 54,239 183,082 20,415
Total 15,017 12,688 3,359*466 $18,775,362 1,209,976
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THE METHODISTS. 259
10. — ^THE CONGREGATIONAL METHODISTS.
Dissatisfaction with certain features of the system of
polity led a number of ministers and members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, South, to withdraw and
organize a body in which laymen should have an equal
voice in church government and local preachers should
become pastors. The new church was organized in
Georgia in 1852, and called the Congregational Method-
ist Church. The first district conference was formed the
same year. A number of churches in harmony with the
principles of the movement were organized in Georgia,
Mississippi, and other States of the South, to which it ha3
been confined. In 1888 many of the churches and minis-
ters went over into the Congregational denomination, which
appeared in the South after the war.
The system of the Congregational Methodists is not
purely congregational. The local church has large pow-
ers, but appeals from its decisions may be taken to the
district conference, and thence to the State conference,
and also to the general conference. These bodies have
likewise the power of censure or approval. The district
conference may " condemn opinions and practices contrary
to the word of truth and holiness," and may cite offending
parties for trial, and admonish, rebuke, suspend, or expel
from the conference. Ministers and lay members have
equal rights and privileges in the local church and all the
conferences. The district conference is composed of rep-
resentatives from the churches, the State conference of
representatives of the district conferences, and the general
conference of delegates chosen by the State conferences.
District conferences meet semi-annually, State conferences
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260 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
annually, and the general conference quadrennially. The
ministers are elders ordained after examination and ap-
proved by the district conference. The elder, as pastor
of a church, presides at its monthly conference. The other
officers of a church are class leader, deacon or steward,
and clerk.' The itinerancy is not in force. In doctrine
this branch does not differ from other Methodist bodies.
This body has in all 214 organizations, 150 edifices,
valued at $41,680, and 8765 communicants. Its chief
strengrth lies in Alabama, where it has 2596 communicants.
The average seating capacity of its church edifices is 310,
and the average value $278. There are 60 halls, with a
seating capacity of 7825.
Summary by States.
"^"•' aSonI Edifices. H»- £r!~ ""^
J-MM1.WW. pacity. Property. cants.
Alabama 65 59 18,575 $14,050 2,596
Arkansas 10 4 1,675 2»525 223
Florida 7 i 550 250 179
Georgia 29 28 8,000 8,050 1,655
Illinois 4 96
Mississippi 28 22 5»6oo 5>4oo 1,341
Missouri 38 13 4,400 3,000 1,450
Tennessee 7 4 1,150 780 196
Texas 26 19 6,450 7,625 1,029
Total 214 150 46,400 $41,680 8,765
Summary by Conferences.
OONPBXBMCBS.
Arkansas 10 4 1,675 $2,525 223
Georgia 26 25 7,200 7,300 1,517
Illinois 4 96
Mississippi 28 22 5,600 5,400 1,341
Missouri 38 13 4,400 3,000 1,4^0
North Alabama 59 53 17^550 I3>300 2,281
Tennessee 7 4 1,150 780 196
Texas 26 19 6,450 7,625 1,029
West Florida 16 10 2,375 1,750 632
Total 214 150 46,400 $41,680 8,765
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THE METHODISTS. 26 1
II. — ^THE CONGREGATIONAL METHODISTS, COLORED.
This body consists of congregations of colored members,
organized into conferences by presidents of the Congrega-
tional Methodist Church, to which it corresponds in ail
particulars of doctrine, polity, and usage. The only differ-
ence between the churches of the two bodies is that they
are composed of white and colored persons respectively.
Four halls, with a seating capacity of 450, are occupied.
Summary by States.
Onuii. chiuch s?5*« Tiffs' ^^
»TATm«. ^2CSr iSSS C»- Church mom.
pMttj. Property.
Alabama 7 5 585 $525 215
Texas 2 104.
Total 9 5 585 $525 319
12. — ^THE NEW CONGREGATIONAL METHODISTS.
This branch originated in Ware County, Ga., in 1881.
It was organized by members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, South, who were aggrieved by a certain action
of a quarterly conference of that body, which action they
regarded as arbitrary. It has the same doctrines and sub-
stantially the same practical system as the Congregational
Methodist Church. A number of its churches united with
the Congregational denomination in 1888.
There are in all 24 organizations, 1 7 edifices, valued at
$37SO» and 1059 members, found chiefly in Georgia. The
average seating capacity of the church edifices is 294 and
the average value $214. There are 6 halls, with a seating
capacity of 450.
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262 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
•''^"•' ItpSSIl iMMf^». C»- Church
paat]r< Property.
Florida 3 i 300 $150
Georgia 21 16 49050 3^600
Vahieof Con.
946
Total 24 17 5,150 $3,750 1,059
13. — ^THE COLORED METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
The Colored Methodist Episcopal Church was organized
in 1870 of colored members and ministers of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, South. Before the Civil War the
Methodist Episcopal Church, South, did a large evangel-
istic work among the negroes. Bishop H. N. McTyeire, of
that body, in his " History of Methodism," says : "As a
general rule negro slaves received the gospel by Method-
ism from the same preachers and in the same churches
with their masters, the galleries or a portion of the body
of the house being assigned to them. If a separate build-
ing was provided, the negro congregation was an append-
age to the white, the pastor usually preaching once on
Sunday for them, holding separate official meetings with
their leaders, exhorters, and preachers, and administering
discipline and making return of members for the annual
minutes." For the negroes on plantations, who were not
privileged to attend organized churches, special missions
were begun as early as 1829. In 1845, the year which
marks the beginning of the separate existence of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, South, there were in the Southern
conferences of Methodism, according to Bishop McTyeire,
124,000 members of the slave population, and in i860
about 207,000.
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THE METHODISTS. 263
In 1866, after the opening of the South to Northern
churches had given the negro members opportunity to
join the African Methodist Episcopal, the African Meth-
odist Episcopal Zion, and other Methodist bodies, it was
found that of the 207,742 colored members which the
church, South, had in i860, only 78,742 remained. The
general conference of 1 866 authorized these colored mem-
bers, with their preachers, to be organized into separate
congregations and annual conferences, and the general
conference of 1870 appointed two bishops to organize the
colored conferences into a separate and independent church.
This was done in December, 1870, the new body taking
the name " Colored Methodist Episcopal Church." Its
rules limited the privilege of membership to negroes.
The Colored Methodist Episcopal Church has the same
articles of religion, the same form of government, and the
same discipline as its parent body. Its bishops are elected
for life. One of them, Bishop L. H. Holsey, says that for
some years the body encountered strong opposition from
colored people because of its relation to the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South, but that this prejudice has now
almost entirely disappeared. He says a separate organi-
zation was made necessary by the change in the relation
between master and slave. " The former, though divested
of his slaves, carried with him all the notions, feelings, and
elements in his religious and social life that characterized
his former years. On the other hand, the emancipated
slave had but little in common with the former master ;
in fact, he had nothing but his religion, poverty, and igno-
rance. With social elements so distinct and dissimilar the
best results of a common church relation could not be ex-
pected/' Bishop Holsey declares that the great aim of
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264 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
the church is (i) to evangelize the negroes, and (2) to
educate and elevate them.
There are 23 annual conferences, with 129,383 members.
It will be noticed that the church is almost entirely con-
fined to the South. It is strongest in Georgia, where it
has 22,840 members ; Mississippi comes next, with 20, 107 ;
Tennessee third, with 18,968; and Alabama fourth, with
18,940. There are 1759 organizations, with 1653 church
edifices, valued at $1,713,366. The average seating
capacity of each edifice is 328, and the average value
$1036. There are 64 halls, with a seating capacity of
6526.
Summary by States.
•TATB8. Onani- Chnreh
Alabama 222 220
Arkansas 116 104.
Delaware 6 3
District of Columbia 5 4
Florida 30 26
Geor^ 266 256
Illinois 2 2
Indian Territory ... 13 9
Kansas 17 15
Kentucky 91 63
Louisiana 138 131
Maryland 2 2
Mississippi 293 292
Missouri 35 31
New Jersey 5 3
North Carolina 20 20
Pennsylvania 6 2
South Carolina 34 33
Tennessee 206 205
Texas 222 216
Virginia 18 16
Total 1,759 1,653
Ciu
piwtj.
69,200
31,050
430
3»5«>
7,000
100,495
800
2,850
16,600
43,220
205
72,150
Si554
625
7,725
310
15.045
67,900
88,330
4,850
Value of
Chuicn
Flupciljp.
$264,625
60,277
1,125
123,800
14,709
167,145
1,250
2,975
14,400
140,330
134,135
475
230,290
22,140
7,500
23,120
1,400
65,325
258,120
147,075
33,150
Q».
1:1^
187
939
1,461
22,840
56
291
8,075
44
20,107
2,786
247
3,468
18,068
14,895
1,351
541,464 $1,713,366 129,383
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THE METHODISTS.
265
Summary by Conferences.
«unc». pucity. Property. caati.
Alabama 180 178 53>8oo $230,125 16,347
Arkansas 44 44 10,575 23,650 2,152
Central Alabama . . 31 31 11 1900 27,900 2,061
East Texas 147 147 68,200 84,100 10,795
Florida 36 26 7|000 I4i709 1,401
Georgia 104 96 43,050 7i,3a> ^^047
Indian Mission 11 7 2,600 2,675 239
Kentucky 91 63 16,600 140,330 6,908
Little Rock 75 62 20,725 36,927 3,860
Louisiana 138 131 43,220 I34»i35 8,075
Mississippi 108 no 23,100 94,000 7,446
Missouri and Kansas 43 37 6,029 31,040 1,309
New Jersey 18 9 1,445 10,325 716
North Carolina 26 20 7,725 23,120 2,786
North Mississippi . . 185 182 49,050 136,290 12,661
South Carolina 34 33 15*045 65,325 3,468
Southeast Missouri
and Illinois 12 12 4,350 7, 100 430
South Georgia 162 160 57i445 95»^5 I4,793
Tennessee 98 96 30,550 87,270 8,621
Texas 34 34 1 1,200 14,850 1,700
Virginia 24 21 8,475 157,125 2,318
West Tennessee .. . 118 119 40,450 177,100 10,862
West Texas 40 35 8,930 48, 125 2,328
Total 1,759 ^MZ 541,464 $1,713,3^6 129,383
14. — THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH.
The Primitive Methodist Church is not a branch of
American Methodism, but it came from England, being
introduced first into Canada in 1843 and then into the
United States. In England the Primitive Methodist
Church came into existence in 1812. It was organized by
ministers and members of the Wesleyan Methodist Church
who believed in camp-meetings and persisted in holding
them. The Wesleyan conference declared camp-meetings
" highly improper and likely to be productive of consider-
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266 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
able mischief." Primitive Methodism differs from Wes-
leyan Methodism chiefly in the larger use it makes of the
lay element.
For many years there were in the United States two
annual conferences, the Eastern and the Western. These
were separate until 1889, when they united in organizing
a general conference. There are now three annual con-
ferences, the Eastern, the Pennsylvania, and the Western.
Each conference is subdivided into districts, as is the cus-
tom in other branches of Methodism. They also have
itinerant and local ministers, class leaders, etc.
The Primitive Methodists are represented only in eight
States, nearly one half of the total of communicants, 4764,
being found in Pennsylvania. They have 84 organizations,
with 78 edifices, valued at $291,993. The avera^ value
of each edifice is $3743, and the average seating capacity
is 268. There are 11 halls, with a seating capacity of
1670.
Summary by States.
paaty. Pioperty. cants.
Illinois 8 , 7 I9710 $14,800 369
Iowa 2 ' 3 500 3>i5o 29
Massachusetts 7 6 i»75o 40,000 575
New York 5 4 1,750 47*650 496
Ohio 3 3 660 3,400 69
Pennsylvania 42 40 1 1*435 146,025 2,267
Rhode Island 4 3 750 12,568 194
Wisconsin 13 12 2,375 25*400 765
Total 84 78 20,930 $291,993 4,764
Summary by Conferences.
CONrBSXNCBS.
Eastern 16 13 4,250 $100,218 1,265
Pennsylvania 45 43 12,095 148,425 2,336
Western 23 22 4,585 43,350 1,163
Total 84 78 20930 $291,993 4,764
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THE METHODISTS. 267
15. — THE FREE METHODISTS.
This body was organized in i860 at Pekin, N. Y., at a
convention of ministers and members who had been ex-
pelled or had withdrawn from the Methodist Episcopal
Church. The movement arose within the bounds of the
Genesee conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church
over differences concerning membership in secret societies,
other questions of discipline, and the emphasis to be placed
in preaching on certain doctrines, particularly sanctification.
In the course of the controversy several ministers were
tried and expelled from the church on charges of contu-
macy. A number of laymen were also excluded.
The new organization adopted the discipline of the
mother church with important changes. There are no
bishops, but general superintendents are elected every four
years. District chairmen take the place of presiding elders.
Persons are not received on probation simply on the ex-
pression of " a desire to flee the wrath to come," but are
required to give evidence of conversion. Members are
required to " lay aside gold, pearls, and costly array " and
dress plainly, and are forbidden to join secret societies or
to indulge in the use of intoxicants and tobacco. At-
tendance at class- meeting is a condition of membership.
Church choirs and the pew system are not approved. Two
new numbers were added to the Articles of Religion, one
setting forth the doctrine of entire sanctification, which is
described as salvation "from all inward sin, from evil
thoughts and evil tempers," and as taking place instanta-
neously subsequently to justification. The second pertains
to future rewards and punishments. There are quarterly,
district, annual, and general conferences. Laymen are
admitted to all on equal terms with ministers. The aver-
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268 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
age seating capacity of the edifices is 266, and their aver-
age value $1298. There are 439 halls, with a seating
capacity of 48,285.
Summary by States.
n-.».ni r*i...^k Seating Value of Com-
Arkansas 4 2 550 $750 61
California 19 11 1,775 14,000 410
Colorado 22 18 3, 175 10,000 203
District of Columbia i 7
Illinois 152 112 32,675 156,050 3,395
Indiana 42 29 8,950 26,200 673
Indian Territory ... i 12
Iowa Ill 62 13,829 57*500 2,117
Kansas 78 19 5,500 18,750 1,300
Louisiana 10 4 I1I50 1,200 62
Maryland i i 200 700 31
Massachusetts i 12
Michigan 197 115 33>35o 107,815 4,592
Minnesota 41 9 1,425 4*350 529
Mississippi i 29
Missoun 19 II 1*720 7,870 325
Nebraska 37 10 2,925 13,025 480
New Jersey. 8 4 1,125 1 1,275 '^^
New York 142 114 29,495 243,950 3,751
North Dakota 9 85
Ohio 54 29 10,300 28,900 897
Oregon 13 o 1,800 5,400 108
Pennsylvania 46 28 6,950 50,050 1,158
South Dakota 29 3 600 3,600 287
Texas 15 6 1,030 5,500 207
Virginia i i 150 1,000 28
Washington 8 6 1,850 15,700 240
Wisconsin 40 20 4,480 21,500 864
Total 1,102 620 165,004 $805,085 22,110
Summary by Conferences.
California 19 11 1,775 $14,000 410
Central Illinois .. . 73 5j 13,900 41,300 1,800
Colorado 22 18 3, 175 10,000 203
Dakota 31 5 900 5,600 308
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THE METHODISTS.
269
SuMiCA&Y BY Conferences. — Continued,
East Michigan So
Genesee 69
Illinois 58
Iowa 46
Kansas 37
Louisiana 15
Michigan 54
Minnesota and
North Iowa 41
Missouri 18
Nebraska 11
New York 50
North Indiana 30
North Michigan . . 63
North Minnesota. . 27
Ohio 54
Oregon and Wash-
ington 21
Pittsburg 22
Susquehanna 59
Texas 16
Wabash 43
West Iowa 52
West Kansas 61
Wisconsin 40
Total 1,102
hii«w<h
Seating
ViJueof
Com.
i;r___
Ca.
Church
muni-
uncea.
padty.
Property.
cants.
38
11,825
$41,050
1,792
61^
16,990
126,450
.Tsi
46
14,275
103,200
30
8,200
26,500
1,003
10
3,100
12,250
«47
6
1,700
1,950
33,850
'!2
39
9,325
1,168
10
2,164
12,350
609
II
1,720
7,870
300
2
275
1,200
171
27
6,425
73,875
963
12
3,350
11,250
317
3«
12,200
32,915
1,633
6
800
750
25 »
29
10,300
28,900
«97
12
3,650
21,100
438
13
3,650
24,350
713
46^
10,855
82,300
i,S30
6
1,030
5,500
319
30
10,100
26,500
763
29
5,240
28,450
868
II
3,600
10,125
673
20
4,480
21,500
864
620 165,004 $805,085 22,110
16.— THE INDEPENDENT METHODISTS.
These consist of congregations in Maryland, Tennessee,
and the District of Columbia, which are not connected
with any annual conference. They are members of an
association which, however, has no ecclesiastical authority
whatever. Each congregation is entirely independent
There is i hall, with a seating capacity of icx>.
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270 RELIGIOUS FOI^CES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
"•AT«s. 22?;°f' ^^ ^*C^' ChSSch muni.
sHuona. euuicBs. p^city. Property. canti.
District of Columbia i i 175 $175 35
Maryland 13 12 7,000 262,300 2,347
Tennessee i i 550 4,500 187
Total 15 14 7,725 $266,975 2,569
17. — THE EVANGELIST MISSIONARY CHURCH.
This organization of Colored Methodists was formed in
1886 by ministers and members in Ohio who withdrew
from the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church for
various reasons. It has no creed but the Bible; but,
according to its bishop, it inclines in belief to the doctrine
that there is but one divine person, Jesus Christ, " in whom
dwells all the Godhead bodily." It has 1 1 organizations^
in the States of Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin,
Nine halls, with a seating capacity of 2650, are occupied.
Summary by States.
■^^'**- ndons. Edifices. V»- Church mum.
*-«uivc* paaty. Property. cant»
Illinois I . . ... 180
Michigan 6 2 850 $1,200 409
Ohio 3 I 200 800 314
Wisconsin i . . ... 48
Total II 3 1,050 $2,000 951
Summary by States of All Methodists.
Alabama 2,271 2,284 620,970 $2,278,988 242,624
Alaska
Arizona 23 17 4,700 58, 100 656
Arkansas 1,709 1,493 375»622 1,200,842 123,316
California 559 438 123,874 2,575,631 36,874
Colorado 146 117 32,200 1,105,700 10,850
Connecticut 239 235 72,582 2,225,730 30*815
Delaware 247 258 65,940 i, 1 16, 125 25,786
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THE METHODISTS.
271
Summary by States op All MsTHODiSTS.^CiVf/imtM'i/.
n*»«tti n»»...h Seating Value of Com-
«^^™- 2SS: &^ <> Chun* muni.
«Hwu». ««»•»». paoty. Property. cants.
Dist of Columbia 63 58 37^925 $1,543,000 16,369
Florida 776 816 180,142 029,551 70,458
Georgia 2,406 2,663 735»o33 2,783,267 275,784
Idaho 42 30 5^925 74i2oo 1,162
Illinois 2,457 2,229 640,797 7,807,118 189,358
Indiana 1,901 1,832 529,600 4,656,235 179,613
Indian Territory . 351 181 33,110 75^243 11,601
Iowa 1,579 1,387 355*990 3>6o2,86o 122,607
Kansas 1,529 894 219,839 2,230,265 95,781
Kentucky 1,700 1,408 39I1635 2,718,518 141,521
Louisiana 810 780 182,525 1,134,992 65,693
Maine 356 290 87,301 1,152,875 23,041
Maryland 1,340 1,324 353*235 5i347>527 123,618
Massachusetts... 422 406 163,472 5,398,825 61,138
Michigan 1,578 1,198 329,907 4*144,427 101,951
Minnesota 591 448 97,800 1,764*493 32,199
Mississippi 1,085 1,93^ 466,026 1,652,269 164,589
Missouri 2412 1,888 518,301 4,232,428 162,514
Montana 74 54 11,805 247,850 2,425
Nebraska 738 490 1 19,303 1,336,475 42,941
Nevada 12 12 2,700 78,800 418
New Hampshire . 134 129 40,505 614,350 12,354
New Jersey 727 707 229,831 5,500,640 96,377
New Mexico 60 42 8,025 107, 100 2,360
New York 2,563 2,388 723,349 18,305,200 265,551
North Carolina . . 2,413 2,335 739*577 2,418,984 276,336
North Dakota 140 61 11,100 139,985 4*889
Ohio 2,798 2,713 818,940 9,600,820 272,737
Oklahoma 51 20 4,650 37*55o 2,029
Oregon 294 199 44,940 693,275 11,927
Pennsylvania 2,536 2,359 732,641 14*476,904 260,388
Rhode Island 52 45 20,335 606,368 7,353
South Carolina . . 1,456 1,709 497,873 1,658,182 251,477
South Dakota .. . 306 148 33,174 384,060 12,116
Tennessee 2,443 2,351 689,446 3>49i,3^ 223,116
Texas 2,716 1,940 570,328 2,677,391 218,890
Utah 32 29 6,205 223,650 1,055
Vermont 234 200 57,076 765,650 17,527
Virginia 1,737 1,646 410,335 2,910,853 154.693
Washington 239 171 44,615 763,175 12,697
West Virginia .. . 1,543 1,097 274,891 1,450,448 85,102
Wisconsin 784 672 144,693 1,889,200 43,696
Wyoming 16 12 2,390 52,700 912
Total 51.48946,138 12,863,178 $132,140,179 4,589,284
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CHAPTER XXX.
THE MORAVIANS.
This is the name by which the members of the Unitas
Fratrum are generally known. The Unitas Fratrum, or
Unity of Brethren, originated in Germany, and has no
connection with the United Brethren in Christ, a denomi-
nation which sprang up in this country near the beginning
of the present century.
The Moravians trace their rise back to the time of Huss.
The fruit of the Huss reformation appeared in the National
Church of Bohemia. The Bohemian Brethren were an
organization formed within the Bohemian Church, pledged
to take the Bible as their only rule of faith and practice and
maintain a Scriptural discipline. The Bohemian Brethren
were persecuted and their organization was overthrown in
Bohemia and Moravia, but it was resuscitated in 1722-35,
among a colony of refugees from Bohemia and Moravia,
settled on the estate of Count Zinzendorf in Berthelsdorf,
Saxony. There the colony built the town of Hermhut,
which became the center of the Renewed Brethren.
The first Moravians who came to the United States set-
tled in Georgia in 1735, the year when the first bishop of
the Renewed Church was consecrated. The colony left
272
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THE MORAVIANS. 273
Georgia five years later and founded Bethlehem^ in Penn-
sylvania. At Bethlehem, and also at Nazareth and Lititz,
in the same State, Moravian Church settlements were
formed. "The lands were the property of the church,
and the farms and the various departments of mechanical
industry were stocked by it and worked for its benefit.
In return the church provided the inhabitants with all the
necessaries of life. Whoever had private means retained
them." There was, however, no common treasury, and
the settlements did not adopt a communal life. The
economical system was abolished in 1762, having lasted
twenty years. The Brethren, however, continued to main-
tain the church system of communal government until
1844-56, when it disappeared. This system, in a modi-
fied form, is still maintained in Germany.
The Unity of Brethren consists of three provinces, the
German, British, and American. All are under a central
government, the seat of which is in Hermhut, Germany.
There is a general synod, which meets once in ten years.
It consists of delegates from each of the provinces and also
from the various foreign mission fields, and is empowered
" to consult and legislate upon those matters which are of
general import." It decides as to all questions of doc-
trine, all essential points of the liturgy, all fundamental
rules of discipline, conditions of membership, nomination
and appointment of bishops, etc. In the interim between
its meetings it is represented by the Unity's Elders' Con-
ference, which is a sort of executive committee. Each
province has a synod of its own, which legislates for and
controls provincial affairs.
Bishops, presbyters, and deacons are recognized in the
ministry of the Brethren. Bishops are general, not dio-
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274 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES. '
cesan, in character. They are appointed by the general
synod or under its authority. The American Province has
the right to nominate those for this country. Bishops are
members of the general synod and also of provincial synods.
They are chosen almost invariably to sit on provincial
boards and in the Unity's Elders' Conference. They have
the exclusive right to ordain to the ministry. Deacons
are those who assist in preaching the gospel, administer-
ing the sacraments, and other church services. When
deacons are appointed to preside over cong^regations they
are ordained as presbyters.
The lot is not now used in the selection of bishops and
appointments to office. Formerly it was used in the ap-
pointment of ministers and in connection with marriage.
Marriage by lot was abolished by the general synod in
1818, and it is long since it was used in the United States
in the appointment of ministers.
In public worship a liturgy is used. In addition to pre-
scribed forms for baptism, the Lord's Supper, confirmation,
ordination, etc., there is a litany to be used every Sunday
morning; also special liturgical services for ecclesiastical
festivals. Love-feasts are held preparatory to the Lord's
Supper.
The Moravians accept the Scriptures as the only rule of
faith and practice. They hold that it is not for them to
" define what Scripture has left undefined, or to contend
about mysteries," such as the Holy Trinity and the sacra-
ments, "which are impenetrable to human understanding."
They emphasize the doctrine of the "total depravity of
human nature " ; the love of God in the gift of his Son as
the Redeemer of the world ; the real Godhead and man-
hood of Christ ; the atonement and satisfaction made by
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THE MORAVIANS.
275
Christ as the ground for forgiveness of sins ; the work of
the Holy Ghost in convicting of sin, inspiring faith in
Christ, and bearing witness of adoption as children of God ;
the fruits of faith as shown in willing obedience to God's
commandments. Christ is the center of Moravian theol-
ogy, and his death is proclaimed as " made of God unto us
wisdom and righteousness and justification and redemp-
tion."
The Moravians have 94 organizations, scattered among
seventeen States and the Indian and Alaska Territories.
The total of members is 11,781. Of these, 4308 are in
Pennsylvania, 1734 in North Carolina, and 1477 in Wis-
consin. In no other State are there as many as 900. Half
of the total valuation of church property, $681,250, is
reported for the 24 edifices in Pennsylvania. The average
seating capacity of the 1 14 edifices returned for the de-
nomination is 277, the average value $5975 ; 4 halls, with
a seating capacity of 715, are occupied.
Summary by States.
Oi|!ani- Church
Alaska 2
California i
Illinois I
Indiana 2
Indian Territory ... i
Iowa 3
Kansas i
Maryland 3
Michigan 2
Minnesota 9
Missouri 3
New Jersey 4
New York 7
North Carolina 13
North Dakota 2
2
I
2
3
I
3
2
3
2
9
3
4
10
20
2
Seating
Ca.
p«aty.
100
100
600
1,150
650
325
620
375
1,480
800
2,500
6,750
440
Value of
Church
Property.
$5,000
700
4,000
17,600
400
4,500
2,500
3>95o
4,500
20,600
5,500
13,500
127,200
58,900
6,500
Com^
muni-
cants.
36
346
40
101
19
150
168
696
59
374
852
1,734
199
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276 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SuuMA&Y BY States. — Cmtmued,
rw^.;. n....^!. Seating Value of Com-
HtMwa. F^t-Trrt paoty. PlOpeRj.
Ohio 6 6 2,2oo $37>400 822
Pennsylvania 14 24 9,770 34o>4«> 4,308
Virginia i x 200 200 45
Wisconsin 19 16 2,905 27,900 1,477
Total 94 114 31,615 $681,250 11,781
Summary by Districts.
Dirnucn.
Northern ^ 79 92 24,515 $621,750 9,962
Southern 15 22 7,ioo 59>5oo 1,819
Total 94 114 31,615 $681,250 11,781
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CHAPTER XXXI.
THE PRESBYTERIANS.
The Presbyterians are those who hold to a system of
ecclesiastical government by presbjrters. They believe
that bishops and presbyters, or elders, as spoken of in the
New Testament, are of the same order, being different
designations for the same office. Bishops were presbyters
in charge of congregations. Presbyters both taught and
governed. They were both in and over the congregations.
The Presbyterians are Calvinistic in doctrine. The Cum-
berland Presbyterian Church, with its colored branch, holds
to a modified Calvinism, rejecting a limited atonement and
the Westminster statement respecting the decrees ; but it
is considered sufficiently in accord with what is called the
Reformed system to be admitted to membership in the
council of the Reformed churches, which includes the Con-
tinental Reformed churches and their branches, as well as
the British, American, and other Presbjrterian bodies.
The Presbyterian polity provides for the following courts :
the session, the presbytery, the synod, and (usually) the
general assembly, and recognizes as officers, bishops or
pastors, ruling elders and deacons. Candidates are or-
dained to the ministry and installed as pastors by the pres-
bytery. There is but one order in the ministry, that of
presbyter. Ruling elders are laymen chosen by congre-
377
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278 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
gations to exercise government and discipline therein, to-
gether with the pastor. Deacons are also layntien chosen
by congregations to care for the poor, raise and distrib-
ute alms, and manage the temporal affairs of the church.
Elders and deacons are ordained by ministers. The ses-
sion is the court of the congregation. It is composed of
the pastor or pastors, and the ruling elders. The pastor is
ex officio moderator. The session is charged with the care
of the spiritual interests of the church. It receives mem-
bers, inquires into their conduct, has power to admonish
or suspend them for offenses, and elects representatives to
the presbytery. The presbytery consists of all the min-
isters and one ruling elder from each church within its
bounds. It has power to entertain and decide appeals
from church sessions ; examine and license candidates for
the ministry ; ordain, install, remove, and judge ministers ;
decide questions of discipline and doctrine ; unite or divide
congregations, or receive new congregations ; condemn er-
roneous opinions ; and in general to care for the welfare of
the churches within its limits. The synod is constituted of
delegates, ministerial and lay, elected by the presbyteries
belonging to it. It hears and decides appeals from the
presbyteries, constitutes new presbyteries, and in general
exercises supervision over presbyteries and sessions. The
general assembly is the supreme legislative and judicial
court in the Presbyterian system. It is composed of com-
missioners, ministerial and lay (bishops and elders), elected
by the presbyteries. It receives and decides appeals from
presbyteries or synods, and decides all questions of doc-
trine and discipline. It meets yearly.
There are twelve Presbyterian bodies in the United
States, as follows:
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 279
1. Presbyterian Church in U. S. of America (Northern),
2. Cumberland Presbyterian, 3. Cumberland Colored,
4. Welsh Calvinistic Methodist, 5. United Presbyterian,
6. Presbyterian Church in the United States (Southern),
7. Associate Church of North America,
8. Associate Reformed Synod of the South,
9. Reformed Presbyterian Church in the United States (Synod),
10. Reformed Presbyterian Church in N. America (General Synod),
11. Reformed Presbyterian (Covenanted),
12. Reformed Presbyterian Church in U. S. and Canada.
I. — ^THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA.
The earliest Presbyterian churches in this country go
back to the first half of the seventeenth century. The
elements composing them were chiefly English Puritans
and Scotch and Irish immigrants. On Long Island a
church was organized as early as 1640 by a Puritan min-
ister named John Young. Another church was founded
at Hempstead two years later. Presbyterian services were
held on Manhattan Island in 1643 by Francis Doughty,
and a Presbyterian church was established at New-
ark, N. J., in 1667. The claim has recently been ad-
vanced that the oldest Presbyterian church is the First
Church of Norfolk, Va., which was established as a con-
gregation on Elizabeth River in the first quarter of the
seventeenth century. Rev. Francis Makemie, generally
regarded as the father of American Presbyterianism, came
to this country in 1683 from Ireland, where he had been
a member of the Presbytery of Laggan. He organized a
Presbyterian church at Snow Hill, Md., at the close of the
century, and in 1 706, with John Hampton, an Irishman, and
George McNish, a Scotchman, and four other ministers —
Jedediah Andrews (Philadelphia), Nathaniel Taylor (Mary-
land), and Samuel Davis and John Wilson (Delaware) —
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28o REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
organized the first presbytery in America, the Presbytery
of Philadelphia. The last four were Puritan ministers who
had come from New England ; Makemie was Scotch- Irish ;
Hampton, Irish; and McNish, Scotch. The same year
this presbytery ordained John Boyd at Freehold, N. J.
In 1 716, the number of ministers having increased to
seventeen and covering an extensive territory, a synod, the
Synod of Philadelphia, was formed, and the presbytery
was divided into three "subordinate meetings, or pres-
byteries." In 1 741 there was a division in the synod in
consequence of differences respecting subscription to the
confession of faith and doctrines and practices, which an
extensive revival movement brought into prominence.
Those contending for a strict subscription and opposing
what they regarded as errors of doctrine in the revival
movement were known as Old Side, and the other party
as New .Side, Presbyterians. The latter organized the
Synod of New York. In 1758 the two bodies were re-
united as the Synod of New York and Philadelphia, At
the opening of the Revolutionary War, in 1775, there were
in connection with the synod 1 7 presbyteries and 1 70 min-
isters. The church suffered severely in the war for inde-
pendence, but it became prosperous after peace was de-
clared, and in 1 788 the synod decided to organize a gen-
eral assembly with four synods. It revised and adopted
the Westminster Confession and Larger Catechism, form
of government, book of discipline, and directory of worship.
The first meeting of the general assembly was held in
Philadelphia in 1789.
Early in the nineteenth century there was an extensive
revival movement in the Cumberland Valley, Tennessee.
Differences in doctrine and practice were developed by this
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 28 1
movement, and the Cumberland Presbyterian Church was
organized.
In 1837, a little more than a century after the division
in the Synod of Philadelphia into Old Side and New Side
Presbyterians, the church was again divided into Old
School and New School Assemblies, chiefly as the result
of doctrinal differences concerning the atonement, whether
it was general or for the elect only, and of differences con-
cerning creed' subscription and polity and discipline. In
1840 the Old School body had about 126,583 communi-
cants, and the New School 102,060. In 1869 the two
assemblies agreed to a reunion, which was consummated
in the same year.
At the outbreak of the Civil War, in 1861, the churches
in the South separated from the churches in the North,
adhering to the Old School Assembly. The Southern
churches adhering to the New School Assembly had also
separated from the Northern churches belonging to the
New School Assembly in 1858 on the question of slavery.
The two bodies created in the South by this division united
in 1865 and formed what is popularly known as the South-
em Presbyterian Church.
The church in the North has grown rapidly since the
reunion in 1869, and has extended into the South, where
it has organized a number of presbyteries, chiefly of colored
people. It is represented in all the States except Missis-
sippi, and in all the Territories, including the District of
Columbia. The largest number of communicants reported
for a single State is 161,386 in Pennsylvania; New York
comes second, with 154,083; and Ohio is third, with
82,444. Though there are more communicants in Penn-
sylvania by 7303 than in New York, the value of the
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282 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
church property in the latter State is much greater than
the value of the church property in the former. While the
1086 edifices in Pennsylvania have an aggregate valuation
of $15,491,680, the 932 edifices in New York have an
aggregate of $21,293,992. Only 26 buildings other than
churches are occupied in these two States. The total
valuation for the whole church is $74,45 5,2CX), indicating
an average value for each edifice of $1 1, 1 73. The average
seating capacity is 334. There are 556 halls, with a seat-
ing capacity of 57,805.
The general assembly of 1890 appointed a committee
to revise the Westminster Confession, so as to soften, with-
out impairing the integrity of the Calvinistic system, some
of its expressions, particularly those setting forth the doc-
trine of preterition. The committee reported a revised
confession to the general assembly of 1891, and the draft
was sent down to the presbyteries for suggestions. The
revision ultimately failed.
There are in all 214 presbyteries, of which 18 are in
foreign lands. Of the 196 in this country, given in these
tables, that of New York reports the largest number of
communicants, 23,873, with 54 organizations and 68 edi-
fices, valued at $8,628,000. The second presbytery in
numerical order, the Central Philadelphia, has 38 organiza-
tions and 46 edifices, valued at $2,470,500, and 17,600
communicants. The Presbytery of Brooklyn has 17,170
communicants, with 39 edifices, worth $1,536,927.
There are thirty synods, of which two are foreign, one
being in India and one in China. Synods are composed
of commissioners chosen by the presbyteries. Within a
few years they have been rearranged, so that their bound-
aries correspond with those of the various States as far as
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THE PRESBYTERIANS.
283
possible. There are, however, notable exceptions to this
rule. The Synod of the Atlantic includes South Carolina,
Georgia, and Florida; that of Catawba, Virginia and North
Carolina.
Summary by States.
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Dist. of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Indian Territory .
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts . . .
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire .
New Jersey
New Mexico ....
New York
North Carolina . .
North Dakota . . .
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Oifuup
Chureh
Scgng
atioiu.
Edi6oes.
I«city.
5
4
1,050
5
4
1,100
7
3
850
15
12
2,660
213
172
50,271
74
7
9
14,595
3,800
32
43
14,970
15
't
10,600
3f
28
6,050
16
9
3,000
19
15
2,275
472
475
158,181
308
320^
104,143
70
S4
8,018
369
347
95,148
370
267^
69,929
82
73
25,045
I
2
I
3
^
n
90
33,020
18
18
IO,X25
236
230
76,050
167
«S4
40,261
207
'?i
54,815
24.
4,150
228
8
154^
4
^'i?l
8
9
3,150
300
420
169,357
^
17
932
2,815
378,4x1
109
■3
26,650
6?i
9,500
636
223,553
17
9
1,850
73
6x
14,397
939 1
i,o86>i
427,059
Value of
Chuich
Property.
$17,300
7,750
13,900
26,450
1,696,725
556,250
433,500
709,800
900,000
322,000
13,850
40,950
4,045,350
2,338,900
39,763
1,503,400
1,078,860
748,375
8,000
8,000
1,488,124
365,500
2,214,636
1,292,670
1,328,700
88,000
576,210
11,400
34,800
6,699,100
45,675
21,293.992
89,180
126,425
5,754,350
14,000
416,500
15,491,680
Com^
152
481
188
16,236
5,902
1,680
4,622
4,882
1,042
1,370
815
54,744
35,464
1,803
29,994
24,050
6,917
70
205
10,593
3,570
25,088
13,732
17,272
1,232
12,159
275
956
58,759
1,275
154,083
6,516
3,036
82,444
450
161,386
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284 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States. — CmtinuedU
Rhode Island 4 4
South Carolina . . 77 67
South Dakota ... 124 83
Tennessee 77 ^\}i
Texas 61 44
Utah 20 31
Vermont 2 i
Virginia 19 19
Washington 85 62
West Virginia. . . 44 40
Wisconsin 131 137X
Wyoming 6 5
Total 6,717 6,664 2,225,044 $74,455>»» 788*224
Summary by Presbyteries.
Seadns
Vahieof
Com.
Cm.
Chinch
nuBs-
pactty.
Property.
cants.
1,385
$6x,ooo
608
25,0X5
173,900
6,829
13,966
156,940
4,413
18,435
216,520
164,850
4,399
9,525
^'5'2
5,180
2X2,975
688
300
4,000
230
4,440
43,925
945
14,785
343,175
3»770
13,135
308,200
877,400
4,275
34,204
11,019
960
52,250
364
Aberdeen 36 17 3,085 $34,575 883
Alaska 5 4 1,100 7,75o 481
Albany 51 63 28,135 1,133,670 10,016
Allegheny 42 46 17,420 672,600 7,444
Alton 41 43 11,480 182,500 3,776
Arizona 7 3 850 X3>9oo 188
Athens 32 31 7^010 105,250 2,460
Atlantic 20 18 7*650 72,000 2,6x9
Austin 27 18 4,700 1131850 1,360
Baltimore 54 64 25,045 1,243,324 8,407
Bellefontaine 25 23 6,925 104,900 3, 197
Benicia 40 27^ 7,6io 136,850 1,970
Binghamton 28 35 13,359 364,050 4,745
Birmingham 5 4 I9O50 I7»30o 152
Bismarck 10 6 i}500 27,200 189
Black Hills 15 10 1,545 20,825 250
Blairsville 36 36 13,925 283,800 6,169
Bloomington 55 56 16,010 233,900 5,704
Boston 34 35 15,760 473,300 5,569
Boulder 16 10 2,575 85,550 1,177
Brooklyn 33 39 24,555 1,536,927 i7,i7o
Buffalo 42 50 23,425 1,383,950 8,018
Butler 36 34 1 1,675 135,800 4,487
Cairo 52 48 12,235 ii7,350 3,775
Cape Fear 30 26 6,605 27,450 1,585
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THE PRESBYTERIANS.
285
SUMMA&Y BY Prbsbyteribs. — CotUinuid.
Carlisle 52
Catawba 35
Cayuga 23
Cedar Rapids 30
Central Dakota . . 33
Champlain 20
Chemung 22
Cherokee Nation. 28
Chester 46
Chicago 73
Chickasaw 22
Chillicothe 32
Chippewa 18
Choctaw 32
Cincinnati 61
Clarion 48
Cleveland 26
Columbia 19
Columbus 29
Council Bluffs ... 52
Crawfordsville ... 57
Dakota 20
Dayton 39
Denver 21
Des Moines 54
Detroit 43
Dubuque 36
Duluth 22
East Florida 15
East Oregon 17
Ebenezer 26
Elizabeth 32
Emporia 83
Erie 67
Fairfield 40
Fargo 38
Flint 42
Fort Dodge 73
Fort Wayne 27
Freeport 32
Genesee 22
Geneva ; . . . 23
Grand Rapids ... 17
'L,,M*k
Seatmg
Value of
Ci^
Chiuch
amccH
poaty.
Property.
68
21,779
$775,700
35
8,350
25,250
26
10,130
386,000
37
11.175
216,250
20
3,375
41,950
25
7,102
236,000
?i
'^X
225,300
14,800
58
I9>5i5
544,700
1,839*250
72
37,935
12
2,650
20,000
31
10,225
127,300
20
4,025
102,975
.30
3,286
11,700
67
24,418
1,186,500
46
14,985
206,250
34
17,635
871,250
24
7,060
34
11,750
282,700
^5
11,903
183,400
58
17,045
322,000
19
2,475
20,690
43
16,465
600,300
14
4,255
240,250
52
14,830
225,325
47
22,320
1,056,100
32
8,500
138,100
16
3,195
49,700
14
3,550
296,500
13
3,000
33,000
25
8,725
232,900
47
21,734
793,000
58
14,790
207,650
75
25,925
584,950
36
14,000
86,750
18
3,415
41,800
34
8,870
116,075
61
14,685
235,850
308,300
26
9,910
32
10,644
261,000
22;i
7,485
200,150
29
12,430
416,800
16
5,575
1x5,800
Com-
7,751
2,242
4,453
3,422
1,242
2,159
2,331
727
7,207
15,306
558
3,836
i>346
641
4,588
6,721
2,112
3,623
4,066
5,757
1,083
7,596
2,502
4,265
8,488
2,979
1,048
589
543
2,624
7,782
6,353
9,415
3,359
1,071
2,286
4,824
3,750
4,057
3,184
4,896
1,936
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286 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SuMMA&Y BY Peesbyteries. — Continued,
Organi- Church
iwtion*. Edifices.
Gunnison 1 1 12
Hastings 52 19
Highland 25 21
Holston 30 26
Hudson 43 48
Huntingdon 72 92
Huron 20 22
Indianapolis 35 38
Iowa 41 41
Iowa City 41 41
Jersey City 31 40
Kalamazoo 21 20
Kansas City 41 39
Kearney 36 23
Kingston 21 16
Kittanning 50 52
Knox 16
Lackawanna 93
Lacrosse 10 11
Lake Superior ... 20 21
Lansing 21 20
Lamed 58 37
Lehigh 46 58
Lima ZZ 3^
Logansport 42 38
Long Island 26 37
Los Angeles 69 57
Louisville 29 26^
Lyons 18 21
McClelland 17 13
Madison 40 43
Mahoning 31 33
Mankato 35 30
Marion 28 28
Mattoon 44 43^
Maumee 38 35
Milwaukee 28 27;^
Monmouth 47 61
Monroe 19 22
Montana 23 18
Morris and Orange 41 59
Muncie 24 23
Muskogee 9 9
Nassau 24 35
Seating
Ca-
padty.
2,545
4,170
6,530
5,425
16,860
30*325
7,625
14,205
13,700
11,388
17,880
7,030
10,175
5,440
4,885
18,170
3,000
33, "2
2,250
4,515
9,660
20,365
9,455
11,850
10,527
14,766
9,665
7,430
3,365
9,775
6,624
7,995
12,130
13,985
9,349
20,530
8,325
4,150
22,615
6,640
1,625
10,215
Value of
Chuidi
Propeity.
$70,700
39,710
111,225
41,650
479»5oo
676,550
214,100
482,100
224,225
157,050
978,700
163,000
280,200
69,400
88,720
278,080
13,850
1,111,800
63,000
128,750
175*500
181,600
657,550
238,700
273,100
199,950
448,900
399*725
161,345
15,150
190,800
422,900
85,570
99,000
143,300
334,300
390,200
391,750
88,000
1,103,600
140,500
8,188
255,700
Com-
628
1,972
2,261
973
5,910
9,907
^598
6,198
4,212
3,617
6,179
2,465
4,092
1,720
1,105
7,159
1,370
10,936
776
1,441
2,552
2,494
6,266
3,729
4,100
3,431
5,203
2,808
3,113
851
3*113
5,484
2,013
2,678
3,966
3,228
5,877
2,371
1,220
8,826
2,609
420
3,085
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THE PRESBYTERIANS,
287
SuMMA&Y BY P&SSBYTKUKS. — CmtmuetL
Nebraska City ... 55
Neosho 64
New Albany 54
Newark 29
NewBrunswicki.. 35
Newcastle 50
Newton 38
New York 54
Niagara 20
Niobrara 38
North River 28
North Texas 17
Northumberland . 46
Olympia 32
Omaha 47
Oregon 45
Osborne 43
Otsego 26
Ottawa 23
Ozark 35
Palmyra 33
Pembina 40
Peoria 38
Petoskey 19
Philadelphia 33
Philadelphia Cen-
tral 38
Philadelphia
North 44
Pittsburg 61
Platte 53
Portsmouth 34
Pueblo 30
Puget Sound 34
Red River 22
Redstone 34
Rio Grande 15
Rochester 45
Rock River 36
Sacramento 33
Saginaw 31
SsuntClairsville.. 44
Saint Lawrence . . 30
Saint Louis 49
^Itiwok
Seatmff
Value of
'Altinmm
qT^
Oniich
I««it3r.
Property.
47
11,961
$205,600
53
14,2x5
149,750
63
18,355
253,900
44
53
21,900
21,800
63
21,470
936,100
n
20,258
48,350
8,628,000
21
7,825
224,700
25K
4,350
37,900
35
13,040
535,500
27,800
13
2,070
52
17,278
588,500
21
8,980
154,400
40
223,600
40
9»297
358,800
23^
3,844
45,600
29
9>420
231,600
21
6,415
97,600
29
7,915
116,750
30
7,745
85,700
20
4,105
53.725
41
14,295
351,800
15
3,415
44,700
42
36,925
2,628,000
46
35,280
2,470,500
5^
23,135
1,059,800
63
29,355
1,603,900
51
13,455
141,500
31
12,050
182,900
205,800
23
5,970
23
5,225
122,325
^l
2,950
32,200
48
16,475
293,850
5
840
19,100
57
22,525
932,400
^6
11,220
221,000
24;i
6,260
145,625
32
9,385
204,300
45
15,185
229,600
35
12,910
323,500
48
16,525
724,550
Com-
3,993
4,724
^'^
9,662
8,024
6,550
5,874
23,873
2,984
1,188
5,528
731
5,927
1,407
3,286
2,960
981
2,992
2,042
2,1x3
2,094
1,608
4,518
746
13,344
17,600
8,450
14,092
3,132
3,437
1,886
1,510
816
4,447
392
10,565
3.481
1,367
2,611
6,219
3,978
6,011
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288 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SUMMAKY BY Pkesbyteues. — CoHimued,
Onaiii- Churdi
XBtaoiu. Edifices.
Saint Paul 64 69
San Francisco ... 35 31
San Jose 24 21
Santa F6 24 12
Schuyler 42 44
Shenango 26 29
Solomon 48 32
Southern Dakota. 28 23
Southern Oregon .13 10
Southern Vkginia 12 11
South Florida ... 19 14
Spokane 15 11
Springfield 36 38/^
Steuben 26 26^
Steubenville 61 64
Stockton 20 15
Syracuse 42 43
Topeka 49 43
Transylvania 27 21
Trinity 18 14
Troy 44 53
Union 32 35
Utah 21 32
Utica 47 51
Vincennes 32 34
WaUa Walla .... 12 13
Washington 38 39
Washington City. 27 33
Waterloo 35 33
WeUsboro 16 18
Westchester 36 49
West Jersey 47 67
Westminster .... 29 42
West Virginia ... 29 25
White River 7 4
White Water 37 40^
Winnebago 37 38
Winona 25 23
Wood River 9 7
Wooster 39 37
Yadkin 38 37
Zanesville 46 48
Total 6,717 6,664
pwity.
23,419
13,170
5i430
1,975
12,172
10,915
7,155
4,151
2,525
2,690
2,500
2,110
13,645
8,710
22,875
16,985
13,735
6,655
3,055
19,375
9,125
5,330
20,158
10,913
2,550
17,355
13,775
8,842
4.970
16,750
22,640
14,805
6,305
1,100
15,225
9,405
4,273
1,050
",730
10,745
16,275
Value of
Church
Property.
$1,047,600
786,500
110,250
26,575
227,000
179,750
90,025
43,800
28,700
15,075
25,500
50,650
370,650
247,400
351,250
80,000
766,400
293,010
115,750
31,200
8X2,XOO
90,500
218,975
715,450
300,900
24,850
428,400
948,500
122,200
89,200
1,173,100
622,900
401,000
111,200
5,525
257,200
140,425
82,100
27,900
151,400
30,980
252,000
Com-
8,391
5,178
1,902
883
3,922
5,270
2,551
1,1
Si
522
639
4,463
3,242
7,557
1,485
791
7,980
2,464
753
7,410
3,483
773
7,406
5,558
2,583
1,059
6,852
6,535
1,696
231
4,711
2,722
1,490
150
4,541
2,551
5,408
2,225,044 $74,455,200 788,224
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 289
2. — ^THE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
The body owes its existence to a revival which began
among the Presbyterian churches within the bounds of the
Presbytery of Transylvania, Ky., in i8cx). The awakening
was first manifested in the congregation of the Rev. James
McGready, at Gasper River, Logan County, and soon ex-
tended throughout the Cumberland Valley, in Kentucky
and Tennessee. Existing congregations were enlarged
and new congregations organized, and there being a lack
of regular ministers to supply all the pulpits, men were
received from the laity and licensed by the presbytery,
without the full literary qualifications required. Some of
the ministers looked upon the revival with disfavor, and
opposed the licensing and ordaining of laymen to preach,
and members of the revival party were cited to appear
before the synod to answer to a complaint that the Cum-
berland Presbytery, which had been formed out of the
Transylvania Presbytery, and to which they then naostly
belonged, had committed irregularities. The synod ulti-
mately decided to dissolve the Cumberland Presbytery,
suspend some of its ministers, and attach its ministers and
members to the Transylvania Presbytery. The outcome
of the matter was the organization of an independent pres-
bytery in 1 8 10, which was called the Cumberland Presby-
tery. The new body grew rapidly, and was divided into
three presbyteries in 181 3. The same year the Cumber-
land Synod was constituted. The synod authorized an
expression of dissent from the teaching of the Westminster
Confession as to reprobation, a limited atonement, infant
salvation, and the calling of the elect only. The new
church was rapidly extended. In 1822 it had 46 ordained
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290 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
ministers; in 1827, 114. Two years later a general as-
sembly was constituted.
In polity, the Cumberland Church is distinctively Pres-
byterian, differing little from other Presbyterian branches.
Its doctrines are embodied in a confession of faith, consist-
ing of twenty-eight articles. It follows the Westminster
Confession except as to the doctrines of the decrees. It
is claimed that it represents the medium between Calvinis-
tic and Arminian theology. It acknowledges the sover-
eignty of God, and declares the free agency of man. The
atonement of Christ was made for all mankind, but only
those who yield to the influences of the Spirit, which are
coextensive with the atonement, will be saved. The sal-
vation of those who thus yield is certain, because both
divine and human agency cooperate to that end The
elect are those who believe on the Son, and the date of
election is the beginning of regeneration and adoption —
that is, when men are regenerated they are elected to
eternal life, and will finally persevere, not by virtue of
God's election alone, but by the concurrent choice of both
God and the believer. No truly regenerated man will ever
finally fall away. Grace is not " irresistible." It may be
accepted or rejected. If accepted, it is the cause of elec-
tion ; if rejected, of reprobation. Election is therefore not
unconditional, either to honor or dishonor. The divine
decrees are regarded as immutable, but not as universal.
The Cumberland Church is not represented in many of
the Northern States. Its chief strength lies in the States
of the border. In Tennessee it has 39,477 members; in
Missouri, 23,990; in Texas, 22,297; ^"^^^1 in Kentucky,
15,458. In these four States three fifths of the member-
ship of the church is found. The whole number of organ-
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 29 1
izations is 2791; church edifices, 2024; seating capacity,
669,507 ; value of church property, $3,5 15,5 1 1 ; members,
164,940. The average seating capacity of church edifices
is 330 and the average value $1751. There are 536 halls^
with a seating capacity of 84,588.
Summary by States.
^ . fy. , Seatinff Vftlue of Com-
8TATBS. 2E!!f"SS!r Ca- Chureh muni.
zatioos. Edinoes. p^city. Propoty. cants.
Alabama 158 137 ^\,^^\ $187,705 7>390
Arkansas 300 178 57,735 158,250 12,282
California 37 291^ 7> 100 69,450 1,496
Colorado 5 5 980 19,300 231
Florida 0 i 200 200 88
Geor^a 15 12 3,300 8,550 598
Illinois 198 183 58,960 313,985 14,177
Indiana 42 53 18,075 160,700 4,826
Indian Territory .. . 53 30 8,550 11*645 1,229
Iowa 24 23 5,650 34,550 1,167
Kansas 68 25 6,350 55,300 2,386
Kentucky 213 185 65,350 254,600 15,458
Louisiana 23 16 5,300 12,050 868
Mississippi 135 116 36,409 108,650 6,353
Missouri 393 271 98,096 571,363 23,990
Nebraska 7 4 790 10,000 416
Ohio 22 22 6,600 60,500 2,602
Oregon 23 10 3»3^5 22,200 897
Pennsylvania 52 48^ 18,050 257,500 6,210
Tennessee 529 464 I49,47i 745,6os 39,477
Texas 476 205^ 75,395 436,io8 22,297
Washington 11 4^ i,55o 15,300 470
West Virginia i i 300 2,000 32
Total 2,791 2,024 669,507 $3,515,5" 164,940
Summary by Presbyteries.
raBSBrrsKnu.
Alabama 27 24 6,925 $18,380 1,081
Albion 16 17 5,075 19,785 1,299
Allegheny 19 17 4,900 52,400 1,576
Anderson 28 27 10,950 33,700 1,867
Arkansas 39 21 7,200 30,500 2,139
Atchison 7 2% 750 3,200 249
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292 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Prksbytbries. — ConHmued,
Athens ii
Bacon 23
Bartholomew .... 28
BeU 25
Bonham 27
Bufialo Gap 15
Burrow 31
California 15
Charlotte 34
Chattanooga 39
Cherokee 15
Chillicothe 28
Choctaw 24
Colesburg 6
Colorado 19
Corsicana 33
Cumberland 31
Dallas 23
Davis 15
Decatur 23
East Louisiana. . . 10
East Tennessee . . 27
Eden 10
Elk 53
Ewing, Ark 30
Swing, 111 27
Florida 6
Foster 24
Georgia 21
Greenville 23
Gregory 30
Guadalupe 27
Guthrie 58
Hopewell 44
Illinois 23
Indiana 19
Iowa II
Kansas 23
Kentucky 10
King 43
Kirksville 31
Knoxville 33
Lebanon 42
^.—aj.
Seatng
Value of
XAf^m
Q^
GbniGh
omcCTi
l»city.
Ploperly.
13
3,600
$22,400
II
6,400
32,800
30
6,500
6,750
'7 .
4,625
14,100
11^
3,675
24,150
3
1,000
5,750
31
7,350
21,950
H^
r^
30,400
38
23,265
23^
7,000
56,300
4
1,300
5,550
17^
5,175
18,613
34
6,850
4,945
6
1,200
14,600
6^
1,650
10,900
16
33
7,800
7,675
31,500
15,800
iS^i
5,450
46,400
14^
3,925
28,050
30
6,100
36,400
8
2,300
7,850
3,250
31
37,250
4
800
10,500
50^
17,685
80,250
28
12,000
22,700
27^
7,050
26,900
%
200
200
1
7,675
45,200
4,850
12,450
9
I
^r
11,800
8,608
9
850
16,550
19
6,100
31,950
39
12,000
48,850
16
6,700
10,550
26X
9, "5
118,500
12
2,600
13,150
12
2,300
24,300
12
3,600
20,900
18,450
12
2,650
3«
6,740
31,850
7,200
45,050
42
13,650
144.800
1,022
966
1,158
1,485
788
1,032
485
1,354
466
1,443
446
'^
1,642
2,158
1,777
1,261
1,770
319
2,033
331
5,713
1,814
2,684
88
2,01
746
998
952
2,250
3,450
1,141
2,767
544
1,262
1,574
1,784
2,162
4-592
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 393
Summary by Pucsbytbriis.— Cm#mm/.
Lexington 65
Little River 26
Logan 41
Louisiana * 10
McGee 30
McGready • 18
McLin 16
McMinnville 31
Mackinaw 13
Madison 40
Marshall 23
Mayfield 30
Memphis 28
Miami 7
Mississippi 27
Morgan 14
Mound Prairie. . . 28
Muskingum 4
Nebraslui 7
Neosho 26
New Hope 48
New Lebanon ... 32
Nolin 27
Obion 43
Oregon - 9
Ouachita 15
Owensboro 15
Oxford 26
Ozark 31
Parsons 20
Pennsylvania 23
Platte 50
Princeton 16
Red Oak 33
Red River 23
Republican Valley 7
Richland 59
Robert Donnell . . 43
Rocky Mountain . 5
Rushville 11
Sacramento 8
Saint Louis 2
Salem 15
IllMvK
Saamg
Value of
Com.
Aincn
Ca-
Chaich
muBi-
puity.
Property.
cants.
51
17,381
3,850
$130,900
4,220
8>i
11,050
1,002
41
11,100
56,700
'■51
7
2,600
7,300
23
7,550
31,100
2,196
16^
5,656
13,700
1,078
13
5,500
14,250
794
31
9,500
48,100
3,055
13
3,950
35,800
1.243
36
7,250
26,700
2,453
978
15
4,825
43,600
29
11,400
22,700
3,100
25
8,460
105,500
28,000
1,744
7
2,000
1,271
25
5,350
6,150
929
17
6,450
20,500
1,242
17
4,450
13,700
1,178
3
1,000
10,100
309
4
790
10,000
416
I4K
7,150
16,950
1,188
43
17,956
45,000
2,540
30
15,600
89,100
8,500
2,735
17
6,300
1,477
3S
16,800
41,600
3,317
1%
1,500
6,400
265
10
2,385
2,425
469
14
4,500
36,700
»,37o
22
21
6,900
6,950
1,800
S'^
1,154
1,923
4
5,900
733
31^
8,850
119,100
2,755
33
11,400
43,350
2,283
1,568
15
7,550
25,750
14
5,500
61,400
2,048
12
3,475
21,300
1,610
4,158
58
13,5"
53,175
38
11,500
49,575
2,148
5
980
19*300
231
9
3,400
14,700
540
7
2,200
19*300
415
2
1,400
80,000
305
1%
2,750
7,200
655
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294 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Presbyteries. — Continued.
saomu. Aoiaca. pg^ity. Property. CUtS.
Salt River 33 23 8,250 $55>55o ^M/^
Sangamon 20 26 6,710 50,400 1,575
San Jacinto 8 3 800 i5>55o 215
San Saba 18 6 i>85o i3»45o 594
Searcy 30 16 5,000 21,900 1,207
Sparte 44 34 16,765 27,665 3,583
Springfield 19 13 2,575 29,200 1,095
Springville . .• 30 30 9,550 83,900 1,419
Talladega 29 i^ 4>35o 16,350 i, 169
Tehuacana 16 y}i 2,920 9>400 818
Texas 16 16 6,900 i5>55o 726
Trinity 15 11 4>95o 11,850 809
Tulare 14 8 1,750 i9>75o 596
Union 11 11 4>6oo 88,000 1,911
Vandalia 19 19 6,800 60,000 I9I17
Wabash 9 10 2,500 21,700 817
Waco 15 10 2,800 9»6oo 791
Walla Walla 17 7 2,415 21,300 742
Washington 23 6 i>3oo 7>6oo 905
West Jowa 7 5 1,850 6,800 238
West Plains 12 o 2,600 6,000 362
West Prairie 21 9 3,075 8,800 684
White River 35 27^ 8,800 11,925 1,178
Wichita 19 4^ 2,000 41,300 728
Willamette 8 4 1,000 9,800 360
Yazoo 20 19 5,534 12,650 1,067
Total 2,791 2,024 669,507 $3,Si5>S" 164,940
3. — THE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH,
COLORED.
This body was organized in May, 1869, at Murfreesboro,
Tenn., under the direction of the general assembly of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. It was constituted of
colored ministers and members who had been connected
with that church. Its first presbytery, the Huntsville, was
formed in 1870, its first synod, the Tennessee, in 187 1, and
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 295
its general assembly in 1874. It has the same doctrinal
symbol as the parent body, and the same system of gov-^
emment and discipline, differing only in race.
It has 23 presbyteries, and is represented in nine States
and one Territory. Of its 224 organizations, 34 only wor-
ship in buildings which they do not own. There are
12,956 communicants, and the total value of the church
property is $195,826, making an average of $1070 to each
edifice. The average seating capacity is 283. There are
34 halls, with a seating capacity of 3570.
Summary by States.
"^^■■* xa£nik Edifices. ^ j:hurch mum-
Alabama 44 38 9,574 $26,200 3,104
Arkansas 2 255
Illinois 7 4 1,300 5,375 195
Kansas 6 3 650 i5>ooo 190
Kentucky 36 31 7,730 31,645 1,421
Mississippi 4 4 950 1,825 278
Missouri 10 9 3,425 17,900 471
Oklahoma 4 100
Tennessee 81 72 24,125 88,660 5,202
Texas 30 22 6,160 9,221 1,740
Total 224 183 52,139 $195,826 12,956
Summary by Presbyteries.
Alabama 7 5 1,850 $4,150 925
Angelina 7 5 1,750 2,350 435
Arkansas 2 255
Bowling Green .... 5 4 950 6,600 365
Brazos River 9 7 2,170 2,896 712
Cumberland 13 10 2,350 7,oio 630
East Texas 14 10 2,240 3,975 593
Elk River 11 11 3,700 10,100 625
Farmington 11 7 2,625 8,960 670
Florence 14 14 3,099 10,350 714
Green River 8 7 1,680 810 157
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296 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Presbyteries.— CVm/kV»«^.
rvmnf rn..in.t. Seating Value of Coin^
*-w..«.«^ pacity. Property. cants.
Hartsville 5 4 450 $1,500 133
Hiwassee 12 11 2i7oo 10,125 400
Hopewell 10 9 3,350 i4>5oo 530
Huntsville 18 15 2,925 8,500 1,160
Mississippi 4 4 950 1,825 278
New Hope 12 13 4,700 19,500 610
New Middleton 16 11 2,775 ^^oo 1,047
Oklahoma 4 100
Pleasant Hill 5 4 1,700 3,200 305
Springfield 5 5 1,200 16,400 338
Topeka 6 3 650 15,000 190
Walter 26 24 8,325 39,775 1,784
Total 224 183 52,139 $195,826 12,956
4. — THE WELSH CALVINISTIC METHODIST CHURCH.
Historically this body is a part of the general Methodist
movement of which the two Wesleys and Whitefield were
the leaders in Great Britain. Doctrinally it is Calvinistic,
its confession of faith being similar to that of Westminster.
Until 1811 the Calvinistic Methodists in Wales were con-
nected with the Church of England, as the followers of
Wesley in England had been. Since that date they have
been a distinct denomination.
The first Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Church in this
country was organized in 1826 in Remsen, N. Y. Four
years later a presbytery was constituted 'A general as-
sembly, which meets once in three years, was organized in
1869. The church system is very similar to that of the
Presbyterian churches, with which it affiliates. There are
six synods, as follows : Synod of New York and Vermont,
Synod of Ohio, Synod of Pennsylvania, Synod of Wiscon-
sin, Synod of Minnesota, and the Western Synod,
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THE PRESBYTERIANS.
297
There are 19 presbyteries. The number of organizations
is 187, with 12,722 communicants. The average seating
capacity of the churches is 235, and their average value
$3303. There are 14 halls, with a seating capacity of
1266.
The Welsh are, of course, the constituency of the church,
and the Welsh language is used in its services and in the
proceedings of its ecclesiastical judicatories.
Summary by States.
rw«M«£. r*k«i«ifk Scatmj VwiiiB m
pttcity. Piopcrty.
Colorado i i 200 $8,000
Illinois I I 700 20,000
Iowa 8 7 1,220 79650
Kansas 5 4 850 39650
Minnesota 13 13 3,705 34»5oo
Missouri 6 4 555 ^>5^^
Nebraska 7 4 780 6,800
New York 28 28 6,370 I43i300
Ohio 31 34 8,050 111,575
Pennsylvania 34 33 10,000 153,700
South Dakota 6 4 730 4,200
Vermont 6 5 1,175 i5>5oo
Wisconsin 41 52 10, 1 10 1 14,500
Total 187 190 44,445 $625,875
Summary by Presbyteries.
ntBSBVTSKIBS.
Columbus 12 12 3,460 $69,875
Dodgeville 5 7 1,525 \lfioQ
Eastern New York
and Vermont 8 8 1,825 26,500
First Kansas 5 4 850 3,650
First Minnesota 10 10 2,555 22,500
Jackson 11 14 2,770 18,600
Lacrosse 3 3 550 5,200
Lime Spring 5 4 1,210 12,800
Long Creek 6 6 1,160 6,850
Missouri 6 4 555 2,500
Coflft.
348
"5
1,166
267
1,789
2,463
2,461
306
2.641
12,722
1,242
271
701
"5
766
855
166
465
283
154
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298 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Presbyteries. — Continued,
Nebraska 8 5 980 $14,800 423
New York City .... i i 550 70,000 350
North Pennsylvania. 23 21 7,111 98,900 1,707
Oneida 25 24 5,170 62,300 1,169
Pittsburg 12 13 3,270 61,700 721
South Dakota 6 4 730 4»200 306
Southern Pennsyl-
vania 7 7 1,439 16,200 399
Waukesha 13 15 3»495 66,900 1,309
Welsh Prairie 21 28 5,240 44,600 1,320
Total 187 190 44,445 $^5»875 ",722
5. — ^THE UNITED PRESBYTERIANS.
This body is not historically connected with the United
Presbyterian Church of. Scotland, though it was formed in
a similar way and of similar elements. The Scottish body
was organized in 1847 of Secession or Associate Burgher,
and Relief Presbyterians. The American branch was con-
stituted in 1858 of Associate and Associate Reformed
Presbyterians. The Associate Presbyterians included both
Burghers and Secession Presbyterians, and the Associate
Reformed, Associate and Reformed Presbyterians. All
these divisions were brought to the United States by
Scotch immigrants. In 1858 most of the Associate and
Associate Reformed Presbyterians agreed to unite, and
the United Presbyterian Church in North America was
the result. A number of each of the bodies, however, re-
fused to enter the union, and hold still a separate existence.
The United Presbyterian Church accepts the Westmin-
ster Confession of Faith and catechisms as its doctrinal
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 299
Standards, modifying somewhat the chapters on the power
of civil magistrates. Accompanying these standards as
a part of the basis of union was a "Judicial Testimony,"
declaring the sense in which these symbols were received.
It consisted of eighteen declarations, including one against
human slavery, another against all secret oath-bound soci-
eties as " inconsistent with the genius and spirit of Chris-
tianity" and forbidden to church members, another opposed
to extending the " communion in sealing ordinances " to
those refusing adherence to the church's profession, sub-
jection to its government and discipline, or abandonment
of fellowship with those not in sympathy with the church's
position ; also another that it is the " will of God " that
the songs contained in the Book of Psalms be sung, and
these only, " to the exclusion of the devotional composi-
tions of uninspired men," in public and private worship.
In government and discipline the church is similar to other
Presbyterian churches. It has presbyteries, synods, and
a general assembly.
There are 56 presbyteries, not including three in foreign
lands— one each in Canada, India, and Egypt The num-
ber of organizations is 866, with 832 church edifices, val-
ued at $5,408,084, and 94,402 communicants. In 1859,
the year after the church was organized, it had 55,547
communicants. It has gained, therefore, in thirty-one
years, 38,855 communicants, or about seventy per cent
The average seating capacity of its church edifices is 318,
and their average value $6500. There are 50 halls, with
a seating capacity of 5930.
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3<X> RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
"*™^ a&os. Edifices. ^ ^Church main-
pwaty. iToperty. cuts-
California 13 10 2,400 $129,500 1,202
Colorado 5 5 1,450 55,500 557
Connecticut i i 500 10,000 184
Illinois 62 61 18,363 231,300 6,529
Indiana 29 29 7,885 92,850 2,542
Iowa 101 98 25,960 274,200 7,769
Kansas 58 48 1 1,605 127,350 3,669
Maryland i i 500 25,000 171
Massachusetts 7 7 2,600 65,000 1,135
Michigan 14 11 2,850 21,600 646
Minnesota i 12
Missouri 14 14 3*900 104,200 1,068
Nebraska 35 25 5, 160 9 j>429 2, 172
New Jersey o 6 2,175 98*500 685
New York 65 62 25,516 707,400 9,719
North Dakota i i 100 1,600 8
Ohio 136 136 43*132 697,550 14,710
Oregon 5 5 1,330 24,800 412
Pennsylvania 281 283 102,404 2,552,450 39,204
Rhode Island i 1 400 15,000 220
South Dakota 4 2 200 1,700 59
Tennessee 7 6 1,300 6,000 465
Vermont 3 3 900 8,000 219
Washington 3 3 525 7,400 103
West Virginia 6 6 1,730 45»3«> 53o
Wisconsin 7 8 1,413 10,455 432
Total 866 832 264,298 $5,408,084 94,402
Summary by Presbyteries.
PRXSSVTBUSS.
Albany 8 8 3,050 $77>ooo 915
Allegheny 31 30 13*205 443>2oo 5,856
Argyle 12 12 6,250 108,000 2,268
Arkansas Valley ... 22 16 3,510 30,600 977
Beaver Valley 23 23 8, 1 10 100,800 3,214
Big Spring 10 12 3,365 57>8oo 1,201
Boston 8 8 3,000 80,000 1,355
Brookville 18 15 4,275 31,800 1,174
Butler 32 32 10,330 161,400 3,748
Caledonia 14 13 4>525 139»300 2,273
Cedar Rapids 11 10 2,685 45,000 834
Chartiers 17 17 6,580 133,200 2,745
Chicago 9 9 2,600 58,000 972
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THE PRESBYTERIANS.
301
Summary by PRESBYT£RiEs.-~CVm/irifMA£
Chillicothe 7
Cleveland 11
College Springs 24
Colorado 5
Concordia 12
Conemaugh 18
Delaware 20
Des Moines 35
Detroit 13
First Ohio 11
Frankfort 17
Garnett 17
Illinois Central 11
Illinois Southern ... 21
Indiana 11
Indiana Northern . . 11
Iowa Northwestern . 6
Kansas City 11
Keokuk 17
Lake 26
Le Claire 10
Los Angeles 7
Mansfield 15
Mercer 13
Monmouth 15
Monongahela 33
Muskingum 27
New York 18
Omaha 24
Oregon 8
Pawnee 17
Philadelphia 15
Princeton 9
Rock Island 11
San Francisco 6
Sidney 17
Steubenville 22
Tennessee 7
Vermont 3
Westmoreland 31
Wheeling 19
Wisconsin 7
Xenia 13
Total 866
>MtW>h
S«Uing
MiliM>fl
Ca.
paaty.
6
2,250
9
3,130
23
6,515
5
1,450
9
1,690
19
6,370
19
6,121
33
7,460
10
2,600
13
4,900
^l
5,631
16
4,240
10
2,500
21
7,105
II
2,850
10
2,185
5
1,165
II
3,240
18
5,800
27
7,713
10
2,410
5
750
15
4,255
14
4,875
4,958
15
31
14,045
29
9,315
8,245
^l
18
3,170
8
1,855
II
2,530
16
8,180
10
3,100
II
3,"o
5
1,650
16
tss
22
6
1,300
3
900
33
10,125
1
6,255
1,413
13
4.400
Value of
Church
Property.
$10,000
65,300
56,900
55,500
15,800
92,600
55,100
89,500
19,300
130,000
87,100
50,100
26,500
82,100
27,500
16,500
14,325
73,300
53,300
95,750
17,225
25,000
78,050
80,300
82,200
646,250
65,600
436,500
64,079
32,200
37,000
475,500
40,450
38,250
104,500
65,400
109,300
6,000
8,000
160,550
128,700
10,455
114,000
Com-
muni-
cants.
694
1,235
2,208
537
5"
2,230
2,341
2,003
H\
1,386
2,117
1,510
646
2,284
845
735
239
1,061
1,910
2,827
710
296
1,424
1,998
2,039
5,543
3,349
2,791
1,034
515
1,259
3,577
1,010
876
906
1,429
2,461
465
219
3,028
1,930
432
1,669
832 264,298 $5,408,084 94,402
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302 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
6. — TBX, PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IX THE UNITED
STATES (SOUTHERN).
In 1858 the Southern chinches of the New Sdiool gen-
eral assembly separated from the Northern chorcfacs be-
cause of differences on the slaveiy questkn. There weie
4 synods with 15 presbyteries in the South, and these
organized the United Sjmod, South. In 1861 thoewas
a similar division in the Old School Presbyterian Church,
resulting in the organization of the Presbyterian Churdi
in the Confederate States of America, with 1 1 synods and
47 presb)rteries. In 1 864 this body and the United Synod,
South, were united, and soon after the name Presbjrterian
Church in the United States was adopted. On account
of similarity of titles this church is commonly called the
Southern and the parent body the Northern Church.
When the union of 1864 took place the Southern Church
had 87,000 communicants. A number of presb)rteries
which had been connected with the Northern Church joined
it after the close of the Civil War, and it has increased
rapidly. It now has 13 synods, 72 presbyteries, and 179,-
570 communicants. In 1882 fraternity was formally es-
tablished between the Northern and Southern bodies, and
in 1888 the general assemblies, respectively, held a joint
meeting in Philadelphia in celebration of the centenary of
the adoption of the constitution of the church.
The Southern Church has 2391 organizations, with 2288
church edifices, valued at $8,812,152. The average seat-
ing capacity is 302, and the average value $3851. There
are 143 halls, with a seating capacity of 19,895.
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THE PRESBYTERIANS.
303
Summary by States.
n^—.; rh...^i. Seating Value of Com-
"AT«s. ^™[ ^"^ Ca-* Church muni-
pacity. Property. cants.
Alabama 172 \^\% 42,920 $S73>4oo 10,560
Arkansas 92 75 21,830 165,685 4,478
District of Columbia i i 1,000 50,000 246
Florida (iTj 66 16,015 162^450 3,444
Georgia 162 164 52,764 737,725 12,096
Indiana . 2 2 650 1,750 79
Indian Territory ... 13 22 5,250 7,75o 629
Kentucky 171 168^ 48,745 99^,750 16,915
Louisiana 64 55 18,435 433,9^5 4,926
Maryland 14 17 4,785 224,300 1,654
Mississippi 208 174 47,5^5 4i5,3i5 ",o55
Missouri 143 1 16 38,705 753,490 10,363
North Carolina .... 282 275 96,485 678,565 27,477
South Carolina 226 243^ 68,185 652,335 16,561
Tennessee 155 150 53,030 927,320 i5,954
Texas 242 171 45,977 627,806 10,774
Virginia 290 345;^ 100,977 1,180,576 26,515
West Virginia 87 loi 27,505 222,950 5,995
Total 2,391 2,288 690,843 $8,812,152 179,721
Summary by Presbyteries.
Abingdon 38
Albemarle 26
Arkansas 32
Athens 34
Atlanta 39
Augusta 19
Bethel 46
Brazos 22
Central Alabama. . . 10
Central Mississippi. 60
Central Texas 49
Charleston 28
Cherokee 28
Chesapeake 17
Chickasaw 25
Columbia 26
Concord 43
Dallas 59
3$
11,107
$117,350
2,634
a7
7,850
80,400
1,608
19
5,530
68,800
1,130
35
11,700
43,125
1,775
40
11,875
203,750
4,100
Toyi
7,950
189,600
1,413
53 .
17,185
106,800
4,796
■1"
5,625
134,400
1,404
1,850
6,300
357
52
ttif
104,150
3,024
37
112,600
2,450
li
9,025
9,767
268,020
63,400
2,243
2,127
20
7,925
110,900
1,452
25
8,250
17.500
1,266
27
9.255
78,700
1,965
47
17,415
101,750
4,5"
42
12,980
175,064
2,848
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304 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SUMMAKY BY P&SSBYTBRIBS. — ConHnued,
Oinni* Churdi
Eastern Texas 56
Eastern Hanover. . 53
Ebenezer 29
Enoree 44
Fayetteville 64
Florida 20
Greenbrier 45
Harmony 32
Holston 16
Indian 13
Knoxville 24
Lafayette 36
Lexington 59
Louisiana 21
Louisville 43
Macon 21
Maryland 13
Mecklenburg 71
Memphis 34
Mississippi 24
Missouri 28
Montgomery 48
Muhlenberg 16
Nashville 37
New Orleans 29
North Alabama ... 55
North Mississippi . 35
Orange 39
Ouachita 22
Paducah 16
Palmyra 23
Paris 21
Peedee 24
Pine Bluff 18
Potosi 17
Red River 30
Roanoke 40
Saint John 25
Saint Louis 21
Savannah 21
South Alabama .. . 55
South Carolina ... 52
Suwanee 22
29
45
53
21
45
35 ,
15X
22
73
19
45
18
16
70
30
22
24
61
16
43
24
35
24
38
19
17
15
34
17
26
44
25
17
22
48
53
20
s^
Value of
Church
ComP
muni.
v^y^
Property.
9,965
$50,442
1,479
21,195
402,700
5,720
7,545
170,100
^'2^2
14,605
94,500
3,898
7,388
23,140
70,690
5,425
47,100
1,064
12,455
98,550
3,023
8,890
55,465
1,932
6,775
43»2oo
2,705
5,250
7,750
629
6,225
133,100
2,012
7,540
72,700
2,194
19,320
158,950
7'i5i
5,100
44,900
808
14,200
339,450
4,433
5,775
144.850
1,261
4,385
209,300
1,607
21,125
194,700
7,299
?'i?^
203,350
2,807
6,865
115,000
1,957
7,250
79,750
2,330
16,990
330,011
4,202
3,475
52,950
959
16,325
433,920
5,013
10,565
362,700
3,635
11,145
226,800
3,427
6,680
76,590
1,721
14,920
140,500
3,949
5,400
41,100
1,198
5,400
107,600
1,750
5,950
49350
1,598
4,170
33,000
920
6,975
47,200
1,489
5,300
23,950
1,1:11
«
37,800
65,085
961
1,202
11,330
95,200
2,805
5,650
40,700
1,103
5.515
283,940
1,472
5,697
93,000
1,420
16,100
210,925
3,783
11,505
80,350
3>203
4,940
74.650
1,277
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 30$
Summary by Presbyteries.— CtvfA>i«^</.
Oinm. Chureh ^?5^« YS"*^ ^^
»»»• 2SS. eS&m^ ^ Church maoi-
wuuw. jMiHwc*. pacity. Propoty. cants.
Tombeckbee 48 38 9,275 $63,375 2,368
Transylvania 29 26 8,750 151,000 2,949
Tuscaloosa 52 50 13,825 129,375 2,993
Upper Missouri .. . 18 16 8,050 229,950 1,808
Washburn. 27 18 5*050 30,585 922
Western District . . 23 20 ji 6,500 41,800 1,664
Western Texas .. . 35 24 6,355 122,300 1,673
West Hanover 36 ' ^\]i 11,410 76,165 2,100
West Lexington . . 40 37>^ 10,025 i77>4oo 4,173
Wilmington 39 40 12,035 90,525 2,722
Winchester 41 59j;^ i/^SSo 173,200 3.301
TotaL 2,391 2,288 690,843 $8,812,152 179,721
7. — ^I'HE ASSOCIATE CHURCH OF NORTH AMERICA.
The Associate Presbyterians began with a secession in
1733 of Ebenezer Erskine and three other ministers from
the Church of Scotland. Twenty years later the first
associate presbytery in this country, that of Pennsylvania,
was organized. In 1 782 most of these Presbyterians, who
held what are known as the Marrow doctrines, united with
Reformed Presbyterians, whence came, in course of time,
various bodies of Associate Reformed Presbyterians. There
were Associate Presbyterians, however, who did not join
this union, and these organized in 1801 a synod, embracing
several presbyteries. In 1858 there was a union of Asso-
ciate and Associate Reformed Presbyterians, resulting in
the United Presbyterian Church. Some Associate Presby-
terians, however, remained separate still. These are known
as the Associate Church of North America.
The Associate Presbyterians were very pronounced
against slavery. As early as 1800 the Associate Presby-
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306 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
tery denounced slavery as immoral and unjustifiable. In
1811 it repeated this declaration, and in 1831 it resolved
to exclude slaveholders from its communion, losing thereby
its Southern congregations.
There are now 4 presbyteries, with 31 organizations and
1053 communicants, scattered among eight States, the
majority of them being in Pennsylvania and Iowa. They
have 23 edifices, with an average seating capacity of 211,
and an average value of $1270; 8 halls, with a seating
capacity of 345, are occupied.
Summary by States.
Illinois I I 175 $1,000 17
Indiana 3 3 600 2,600 112
Iowa 5 5 974 5,300 233
Kansas 4. 3 650 3f3oo 160
New Jersey i i 200 2,400 20
New York i ... 14
Ohio 4 3 625 6,800 77
Pennsylvania 12 7 1,625 7>8oo 420
Total 31 23 4>849 $29,200 1,053
Summary by Presbyteries.
16
10
2,200
$12,000
SOI
5
4
6
5
3
5
974
650
1,025
5.300
159
Clarion
Iowa
Kansas
Northern Indiana . .
Total 31 23 4,849 $29,200 1,053
8. — ^THE ASSOCIATE REFORMED SYNOD OF THE SOUTH.
The union of Associate and Reformed Presbyterians in
1 782 resulted in a body called Associate Reformed Pres-
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 307
b)rterians. There have been various divisions bearing this
name, but all have ceased to exist, having joined with
Associate Presbyterians to form the United Presbyterian
Church, or been absorbed by other Presbyterian bodies,
except the Associate Reformed Synod of the South. In
consequence of differences in the general synod of the
Associate Reformed Church, which had been formed in
1804, on the psalmody and communion questions, the
Associate Reformed Synod of the Carolinas withdrew in
1 82 1 and became the next year an independent body,
under the title of The Associate Reformed Synod of the
South.
The synod accepts the Westminster Confession of Faith,
with those sections treating of the power of civil magfis-
trates in ecclesiastical matters changed so as to eliminate
their " Erastian doctrine." In 187 1 the synod also adopted
a " summary of doctrines," consisting of thirty-five articles,
together with a brief declaration of church order and terms
of communion. Its distinctive principles are contained in
the sections concerning psalmody and the communion.
Psalms only and not uninspired hymns may be used in
worship, and persons " holding to error or corrupt worship,
or notoriously belonging to societies which so hold," may
not be admitted to the Lord's Table.
Connected with the synod are 8 presbyteries, with 116
organizations, the same number of edifices, and 8501 com-
municants. The average seating capacity of the edifices
is 319; their average value, $1826. The main body of
communicants is to be found in the two Carolinas and
Tennessee. Five halls, with a seating capacity of 540, are
occupied
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308 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
/!•<■ r^ « Seating Value of Coai>
^'^'^^^ n2o^ Edifieei. ^^ i2!^ ""^
paatjr. Jfropcny* canti
Alabama 5 5 1,700 $i3>i5o 220
Arkansas 10 9 i»90o JjZOo 513
Georgia 8 8 2,500 159900 474
Kentucky 5 6 I9I50 14,500 169
Mississippi 5 5 1,425 4>5oo 564
Missouri I I 350 1,500 92
North Carolina 20 21 7*650 5i|000 2,109
South Carolina 36 37 12,800 70,400 2,728
Tennessee 14 14 3,975 18,100 1,058
Texas 7 4 1,650 3,500 188
Virginia 4 5 1,550 10,000 286
West Virginia i i 400 2,000 100
Total 116 1 16 37,050 $21 1 ,850 8,501
Summary by Presbyteries.
PKSSBVTBRIXS.
Arkansas 10 9 1,900 $7,300 513
First 38 39 I4>ia5 84,900 3,686
Kentucky 6 7 1,500 16,000 261
Memphis 13 13 3,250 11,100 1,200
Second 26 27 8,825 52,400 1,625
Tennessee and Ala-
bama II II 3,850 24,650 642
Texas 7 4 1,650 3,500 188
Virginia 5 6 1,950 12,000 386
Total 1 16 1 16 37,050 $21 1,850 8,501
THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIANS.
The Reformed Presbyterians of the United States, of
whom there are several branches, are ecclesiastically de-
scended from the Cameronians, or Reformed Presbyte-
rians of Scotland, otherwise called Covenanters. The first
presbytery in Scotland was organized in 1743. Eight
years later the first Covenanter minister arrived in this
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 309
country, and in 1774 the first presbytery of this church in
America was constituted. A few years later the members
of this presbytery, joining with a number of seceders, as
they were called, also a Scottish Presbyterian division,
organized the Associate Reformed Church. A division in
this body resulted in the formation of the Reformed Dis-
senting Presbytery, and the original Presbytery being re-
suscitated, there were before the close of the century three
branches of Reformed Presbyterians.
The question of the relation of the Christian Church to
civil government has ever been a prominent one among
Reformed Presbyterians. All accept the Westminster
Confession of Faith and form of church government, and
all occupy an attitude of protest against civil governments
which do not recognize the headship of Christ and the
authority of God and his law. They differ, however,
among themselves as to the extent to which this protest
should be carried. Some refuse, because the Constitution
of the United States does not acknowledge the existence
of Almighty God, the supremacy of Christ, and the au-
thority of the Scripture, to " incorporate with the political
body," and hence do not participate in elections and in
certain other political rights and duties. Others continue
to protest against " a godless government," but do not re-
frain from voting. The Reformed Presbyterians deem the
influence of secret societies pernicious, and forbid commu-
nicants all connection with them. They do not use modem
hymns, but sing psalms only. They were always opposed
to slavery. In 1800, when attention was called to the fact
that some of the members owned slaves, the presbytery
enacted, without a dissenting voice, that " no slaveholder
should be allowed the communion of the church."
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3IO REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
9. — ^THE SYNOD OF THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH.
In 1809 a synod was organized. A motion brought
before this body in 1825 to open fraternal correspondence
with the general assembly of the Presb3rterian Church
being defeated, a number of ministers subsequentiy with-
drew and joined the latter body. In 1833 a division
occurred, resulting in two organizations, both of which
retained the same subordinate standards unchanged, but
differed in the application of them. The one, allowing its
members to vote and hold office under the government, is
known as the Reformed Presbyterian Church (New Light)
or General Synod; the other, still adhering to the old
practice, as the Reformed Presbyterian Church (Old Light)
or Synod.
The synod's " terms of ecclesiastical communion " em-
brace an acknowledgment of the Scriptures as the word of
God and only rule of faith and manners; of the whole
doctrine of the Westminster Confession and catechisms as
founded upon the Scriptures ; of the divine right of one
unalterable form of church government as set forth by the
Westminster Assembly ; of the obligation upon the church
of the covenimt entered into in 1 871, in which are em-
bodied the engagement of the national covenant and of
the solemn league and covenant, so far as applicable in this
land. The covenant of 187 1 declares that those accepting
it are pledged to labor for " a constitutional recognition of
God as the source of all power, of Jesus Christ as the ruler
of nations, of the Holy Scriptures as the supreme rule, and
of the true Christian religion," and to refuse to " incorpo-
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THE PRESBYTERIANS.
311
rate by any act with the political body until this blessed
reformation is secured." The members of this branch,
therefore, do not take part in state or national elections.
They neither vote nor hold office.
The synod embraces 1 1 presbyteries, with 115 organiza-
tions and edifices, 10,574 communicants, and church prop-
erty valued at $1,071,400. The average value of its
edifices is $9317, and the average seating capacity 323.
Though it is represented in nineteen States, more than half
of its communicants are in Pennsylvania and New York.
Three halls, with a seating capacity of 600, are occupied.
Summary by States.
»>«*«• Organi- Church ^^J"'
"^"** sa&nu. Edifices. ^^
Alabama i i 300
Colorado 3 2 050
Illinois 5 5 1,575
Indiana 3 3 550
Iowa 9 9 2,760
Kansas 9 7 ii75o
Maine i i 300
Maryland i i 250
Massachusetts 2 2 i>35o
Michigan 2 2 550
Minnesota 4 3 1,000
Missouri 2 i 350
Nebraska i i 350
New York 18 19 8,030
Ohio 14 16 49I60
Pennsylvania 33 35 11,180
Vermont 5 5 1,240
West Virginia i i ' 200
Wisconsin i i 250
Total 115 115 37,095
Value oT
Com.
Chuxch
muni.
Property.
CMtl.
$i,5a>
76
4,500
142
16,000
536
11,000
246
21,900
94
15,000
75«
4.000
19
15,000
6S
100,000
400
6,000
197
2,800
US
10,000
100
3,500
SI
459,500
2,328
55,600
951
324,500
3.272
17,900
222
700
20
2,000
62
$1,071,400 10,574
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312 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Presbyteries.
Edifion. ^
9^P^ i52^ Q^ ' Chutch
ycity. Property.
Illinois 9 9 2,775 $35i«» 77^
Iowa 13 II 39310 19*700 916
Kansas 16 12 3AS^ 30,000 1,291
Lakes 9 9 2,730 3S>ooo 768
Maine i i 300 4«ooo 19
New York 15 16 7i90o 517,500 2,351
Ohio 8 10 2,180 25,800 472
Philadelphia 5 5 1,880 88,000 789
Pittsburg 30 32 9,850 256,500 2,593
Rochester 5 5 1,480 42,000 377
Vermont 5 5 1,240 17,900 222
Total 115 115 37,095 $1,071,400 10,574
10. — ^THE GENERAL SYNOD OF THE REFORMED
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
This is the other body resulting from the division of the
Reformed Presbyterian Church in 1833. They used to be
popularly distinguished as "New Lights." The general
synod holds equally with the synod to the Westminster
standards, to the headship of Christ over nations, to the
doctrine of *' public social covenanting," to the exclusive
use of the psalms in singing, to restricted communion in
the use of the sacraments, and to the principle of " dissent
from all immoral civil institutions," but allows its members
to decide for themselves whether the government of this
country should be regarded as an immoral institution, and
thus determine what duties of citizenship devolve upon
them. They may therefore exercise the franchise and hold
office, provided they do not in these civil acts violate the
principle that forbids connection with immoral institutions.
Many of them do participate in elections. Negotiations
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THE PRESBYTERIANS. 313
for the union of the general synod and the synod failed in
1890, because the latter would not agree to a basis which
interpreted the phrase "incorporate with the political
body " as meaning " such incorporation as involves sinful
compliance with the religious defects of the written consti-
tution as it now stands, either in holding such offices as
require an oath to support the constitution or in voting for
men to administer such offices."
The general synod embraces S presbyteries, with 33
organizations, the same number of edifices, valued at
$469,000, and 4602 communicants. The average seating
capacity of its edifices is 375, and their average value
$14,212, which is an extremely high figure. One hall,
with a seating capacity of 100, is occupied.
Summary by States.
"^"^ ^T^a^ "> -^"^ «"^
Seftdng Value of Com-
(7ft- Church tfi^^w^
padtjr. F)ropert)r. cants.
Illinois 6 6 2,150 $16,400 590
Indiana 2 2 450 2,400 82
Iowa 2 I 180 1,000 33
Kansas i i 150 800 65
New York 6 6 2,650 123,000 624
Ohio 2 2 1, 100 36,500 340
Pennsylvania 11 12 49900 283,500 2,685
Tennessee i i 200 400 18
Vermont 2 2 600 5>ooo 165
Total 33 33 12,380 $469,000 4,602
Summary by Presbyteries.
Northern 8 8 3,250 $128,000 789
Ohio 3 3 1,300 38,000 400
Philadelphia 6 6 3>25o 185,500 2,103
Pittsburg 5 6 1,650 98,000 582
Western 11 10 2,930 19,500 728
Total 33 33 12,380 $469,000 4,602
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314 reugious forces of the united states.
ii. — ^the reformed presbyterian church
(covenanted).
This body was organized in 1840 by two ministers and
three elders who withdrew from the synod, or the branch
known as the " Old Lights," on the ground that the latter
maintained sinful ecclesiastical relations and patronized or
indorsed moral reform societies with which persons of any
religion or no religion were connected. Its terms of com-
munion are somewhat stricter than those of the synod. It
is a small body, having only 4 organizations, with 37
members, divided among three States.
Summary by States.
Orauii. Chiireh Seating ^*>^ ^^■
"^"•- a&ms. Edifices. ^^ ^"^ """^
■MUMis. r^T-T-TT- ^mcLtf. rto^uttf. cants.
New York i 7
Ohio I I 300 20
Pennsylvania 2 10
Total 4 I 200 37
12. — ^THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE
UNITED STATES AND CANADA.
This body was organized in 1883, i^ consequence of
dissatisfaction with the treatment of a question of discipline
by the general synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church
(New Lights). In the matter of participation in elections
it holds with the general synod, and contrary to the
synod, that Christians may vote and be voted for, regard-
ing th^ republic as essentially a Christian republic. It has
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THE PRESBYTERIANS,
315
but 600 members in the United States, who belong to one
congregation in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.
Summary.
Oisaoi- Church
Pittsburg
SefUinff
Cik
padtjr.
800
VftloeoT
Chuxcfa
Com.
$75,000 600
Summary by States of All Presbyterians.
STATBS.
Alabama 385 327 97^75 $Si9>255
Alaska 5 4 1,100 lyl\o
Arizona 7 3 850 i3»9oo
Arkansas 419 274 84,125 3579685
California 263 211 59,771 i>895,675
Colorado 88 69 17,875 643,550
Connecticut 8 10 4»3oo 443>5oo
Delaware 32 43 14,970 709,800
Dist. of Columbia 16 20 11,600 950,000
Florida 107 95 22,265 484,650
Georgia 201 193 61,564 776,025
Idaho 19 15 2,275 4o>950
Illinois 752 736 241,404 4,649,410
Indiana 389 412 132,653 2,610,200
Indian Territory . 136 106 21,818 59,158
Iowa 518 490 131,892 1,848,000
Kansas 521 359 91,934 1,299,260
Kentucky 507 464 148,020 2,045,870
Louisiana 88 72 24,035 454,035
Maine 3 4 i, 100 12,000
Maryland 93 109 38,555 1,752,424
Massachusetts ... 27 27 14,075 530,500
Michigan 2J2 243 79,450 2,242,236
Minnesota 185 170 44,966 1,329,910
Mississippi 352 299 86,369 530,290
Missouri 776 609 198,421 2,789,652
Montana 24 18 4, 150 88,000
Nebraska 278 189 41,981 691,939
Nevada 8 4 865 11,400
New Hampshire . 8 9 3,150 34,8oo
New Jersey 307 427 171,732 6,800,000
New Mexico 39 17 2,815 45,675
New York 903 1,047 420,977 22,727,192
21,502
481
188
18,022
18,934
6,968
1,864
4,622
5,128
4,574
14,538
815
77,213
43,351
3,661
40,528
31,393
40,880
5,864
224
12,483
5,105
25,931
15,055
18,250
53,510
1,232
15,065
275
956
59*464
1.275
168,564
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3l6 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States of All Presbyterians. — Continued,
Onani. Church ^^Z ^^^ ^^
padty. Property. cants.
North Carolina . . 411 399 130^785 $818,745 36,102
North Dakota . . . 100 49 9,600 128,025 39O44
Ohio 828 849 287,420 6,722,875 103,607
Oklahoma 21 9 1,850 14,000 550
Oregon loi 76 19,092 463,500 5,244
Pennsylvania 1,365 1,506 576,018 19,140,130 216,248
Rhode Island 5 5 1,785 76,000 828
South Carolina . . 339 347 106,000 896,635 26,118
South Dakota 134 89 14,896 162,840 4,778
Tennessee 864 779 250,536 2,002,605 66,573
Texas 816 446 138,707 1,241,485 37,811
Utah 20 31 5,180 212,975 688
Vermont 18 16 4,215 50,400 1,267
Virginia 313 369 106,967 1,234,501 27,746
Washington 99 70 16,860 365,875 4,343
West Virginia .. . 140 150 43,270 581,150 10,952
Wisconsin 180 199 45,977 1,004,355 14,154
Wyoming 6 5 960 52,250 364
Total 13,476 12,469 41038,650 $94*869,097 1,278,332
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CHAPTER XXXII.
PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL BODIES.
I. — ^THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
The beginnings of the Church of England in this coun-
try reach back into the sixteenth century, although the
Protestant Episcopal Church was not formally organized
as an independent branch until 1785. Clergymen of the
Church of England accompanied the early colonists of
North Carolina across the sea, one of whom baptized an
Indian chief in 1587 in a colony unsuccessfully begun by
Sir Walter Raleigh, and also, about the same time, the
first white Christian bom in that colony. It is probable
that the Rev. Francis Fletcher, who accompanied, as chap-
lain, the expedition of Sir Francis Drake to the Pacific
Coast, held services on California soil as early as 1579.
. He officiated for six weeks in the neighborhood of Drake's
Bay. In 1607 worship according to the Anglican ritual
was established in the new colonies at Jamestown, Va.,
and Kennebec, Me. It was soon discontinued in Maine,
but in Virgfinia it was not interrupted An Episcopal
congregation was gathered in New Hampshire in 1631,
and parishes were formed in other parts of New England
and the Middle States in the early colonial days, Trinity
parish. New York City, being constituted in 1693, and
Christ Church parish, in Philadelphia, in 1695. The
church became the established church in New York, New
317
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3l8 REUCIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, South Carolina, and Georgia.
In Virginia, for a considerable period, no other form of
worship was tolerated. In Massachusetts, on the other
hand, the Anglican service was not allowed until liberty
for it was secured by royal proclamation in 1662. The
Episcopal Church received considerable assistance from
England, particularly from the Society for the Propaga-
tion of the Gospel, organized in 1701, which sent over
many missionaries. It is said that at the beginning of
the Revolutionary War the society was maintaining about
eighty missionaries in the colonies.
At the close of the struggle resulting in American inde-
pendence many of the parishes were without ministerial
oversight. Some of the clergymen had left the country
during the war, returning to England or going north to
the*British provinces. In Virginia, where at the outbreak
of the war there had been 164 churches and chapels and
91 clergymen, it was found in 1784 that 95 parishes were
either extinct or forsaken, and only 28 clergymen remained.
At a conference of clergymen and laymen from New York,
New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, held in New Brunswick,
N. J., in May, 1784, steps were taken to form "a conti-
nental representation of the Episcopal Church." In the
following October a convention, representing Delaware and
Maryland, in addition to the three States above named,
assembled in New York City, and resolved to " recommend
to the clergy and congregations of their communion " that
" there be a general convention of the Episcopal Church " ;
that the first meeting of the convention be held in Phila-
delphia in September, 1 785 ; and that clerical and lay
deputies be appointed by the Episcopal churches in the
several States, " duly instructed and authorized " to take
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PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL BODIES. 319
part in its deliberations. At the convention of 1785 a
committee was appointed to draft a constitution, to pre-
pare such alterations in the liturgy as were necessary, and
to report a plan for securing the consecration of bishops.
All of these matters were considered by the committee,
and the convention acted upon the several reports it made.
The first Episcopal consecration was that of Bishop Sea-
bury, of Connecticut, which took place in Aberdeen, Scot-
land, in 1784, the Scottish bishops officiating. In 1787
Drs. William White and Samuel Provoost were consecrated
bishops in London, by the Archbishop of Canterbury. The
consecration of Bishop Seabury was recognized by the
general convention of 1 789, and the church was thus fully
organized and fully equipped, with bishops of the Scottish
and English succession, a constitution, a general convention,
and a prayer-book. When the general convention of 1792
was held, it was estimated that there were in this country
about 200 clergymen. The church developed quite slowly
until after the first quarter of the present century. The
clerical list reported at the convention of 1832 contained
nearly 600 names ; three years later it had swelled to 763,
and in 1838 it reached 951. In the next thirty years this
number was considerably more than doubled. It now has
$2 dioceses and 13 missionary jurisdictions, besides 5 mis-
sionary jurisdictions in foreign lands. The number of its
bishops is 75.
The doctrinal symbols of the Protestant Episcopal
Church are the Apostles' and the Nicene creeds, together
with the Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of England
slightly altered.
The legislative authority of the church is vested in a
general convention, which meets triennially. The conven-
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320 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
tion consists of two houses, the house of bishops and the
house of clerical and lay deputies. The deputies are
elected by diocesan conventions. Every diocese, regard-
less of the number of clergymen and communicants within
its bounds, is entitled to eight deputies, four clerical and
four lay. The concurrence of both orders in the house of
deputies and the consent of both houses are necessary to
the enactment of legislation. The general convention has
the power to adopt, alter, or repeal canons pertaining to
the regulation of the general affairs of the church, to ratify
measures for the erection of new dioceses, and to make
alterations in the constitution and Book of Common Prayer
under certain restrictions. It is the supreme legislative,
executive, and judicial power. The legislation of the gen-
eral convention is in the form of canons, which are arranged
under four titles :
" I. Of the orders in the ministry and of the doctrine
and worship of the church.
"II. Of discipline.
" III. Of the organized bodies and officers of the church.
" IV. Miscellaneous provisions."
There is in each diocese a convention consisting of the
clergy and representatives of the laity. The bishop of the
diocese is the presiding officer. The diocesan convention
has power to provide by legislation for such diocesan mat-
ters as are not regelated by the general canons of the
church. The unit of the diocese is the parish, with its
rector, churchwardens, vestrymen, and congregation. The
vestrymen are the trustees and hold the property for the
corporation. The wardens, of whom there are usually two,
represent the body of the parish, and have chaise of the
records, collect the alms, and look after the repairs of the
church. Vestry meetings, to be valid, require the presence
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PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL BODIES. 32 1
of at least one warden. The rector, who must be a priest,
presides, and has exclusive direction of the spiritual affairs
of the church.
Three orders are recognized in the ministry: bishops,
priests, deacons. A bishop is elected by the diocesan con-
vention and consecrated by bishops after consent has been
given by the standing committees of the various dioceses
and by the bishops.' He licenses lay readers, ordains dea-
cons and priests, administers the right of confirmation to
members, institutes rectors, and is required to visit every
parish in his diocese at least once in three years.
The number of organizations is 5019 ; of church edifices,
5019, which have an aggregate value of $81,220,317.
Worship is also held in 312 halls, etc., with an aggregate
seating capacity of 28,007. There are in all 532,054 com-
municants. Of these New York reports the largest number
(127,218) among the States. Pennsylvania comes second,
with 54,720; New Jersey third, with 30,103; Massachu-
setts fourth, with 26,855; and Connecticut fifth, with
26,652. Maryland has more than Vii^nia, and the Dis-
trict of Columbia a larger number than Alabama, Arkan-
sas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, or
any of the other Southern States, excepting only North
Carolina and Virginia. The church is represented in all
the States and Territories. The largest diocese is that of
New York, with 5 3,593 communicants. Pennsylvania comes
second, with 33,459; Maryland third, with 28,273; and
Massachusetts fourth, with 26,855. There are 51 dio-
ceses, besides a number of missions and missionary juris-
dictions. The multiplication of dioceses has been quite
rapid in the last quarter of a century.
The average seating capacity of the church edifices is
266, and the average value $16,182.
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322 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SUMICARY BY STATIS.
Omni.
Alabama 58
Alaska i
Arizona 9
Arkansas 30
California 103
Colorado 53
Connecticut 161
Delaware 38
Dist. of Columbia . 18
Florida 100
Georgia 46
Idaho 13
Illinois 186
Indiana 65
Iowa 105
Kansas 96
Kentucky 47
Louisiana 85
Maine 38
Maryland 166
Massachusetts 166
Michigan 189
Minnesota 171
Mississippi 68
Missoun Ill
Montana 30
Nebraska no
Nevada 9
New Hampshire . . 44
New Jersey 184
New Mexico 16
New York 731
North Carolina ... 178
North Dakota 39
Ohio 166
Oklahoma 4
Oregon 31
Pennsylvania 369
Rhode Island 50
South Carolina ... 94
South Dakota 83
Tennessee 69
Cniudi
»>-»t^
S^
Value or
Cauncb
Cob.
• Vchy.
Pnpertj.
caalB.
59
16,755
$655,752
^''^I
I
200
1,200
4
800
24,216
179
38
7.575
196,122
2,381
9S
«
1,019,695
9,231
44
700,065
3,814
i«7
64,27s
3,403,170
36,653
44
n,2i5
371,500
2.719
38
io,8as
790,500
7,476
«4
I3»S§9
390,561
4,a»S
50
13,282
492,300
5,5>5
364
19.099
5. "5
179
47,523
2,117,275
61
15,660
887I400
77
17,385
6,481
4«
9,090
316,225
3,593
57
34,935
758,800
7,161
6S
15,099
387,950
5,162
37
10,342
406,590
3,291
344
62,553
2,381,406
it
172
57,613
4,676,193
12
46,639
1,645,551
18,034
27,070
931,100
11,142
61
13,589
322,960
i:l^
«4
231O35
952,600
32
2,375
11,665
165,450
1,104
68
580,145
4,036
9
1,825
19,500
535
46
10,550
3,8i5l85o
2,911
334
62,125
30,103
6
1,140
41,165
373
827
252,343
30,862,213
161
34,721
545,010
8,186
892
184
49*419
2,i)6^,787
»7,454
2
325
4,000
i°5
4S
4,014
361,930
10,854,131
1,189,700
1,849
134^967
54,720
61
20,949
9.4S«
88
21,041
571,833
5,742
69
9i295
234,53^
2,649
63
16,275
575>900
5,671
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PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL BODIES.
323
SuMiiA&Y BY STATK&,-^<mimued.
Onui> QmiicIi
Q^
Value or
Church
Com.
Texas 139 no 33,120 $624,900 7,097
Utah 10 10 1,525 7I9350 751
Vennont 63 56 13,087 472,050 4,335
Virginia 245 33© 79>34o 1,697,375 20,371
Washington 23 18 3,731 242,800 1,698
West Virginia 61 63 13,898 276,687 2,906
Wisconsin 133 117 21,830 1,035,978 10,457
Wyoming 16 467
Total 5,019 5,019 i,336»952 $81,220,317 532>o54
Summary by Dioceses and Missions.
Alabama 58 59 16,755 $655,752 6,085
Albany 143 155 41,796 2,323,600 18,556
Arkansas 30 28 7,575 196,122 2,381
California 76 70 I5>375 9a>,3S3 8,107
Central New York. 152 158;^ 40,362 1,873,500 16,159
Cenfl Pennsylvania 117 141 37,870 2,211,115 10,658
Chicago 90 88 26,688 1,721,050 13,597
Colorado 52 44 8,663 700,065 3,814
Connecticut 161 187 64,275 3,403,170 26,652
Delaware 38 44 11,215 37i>5<x> 2,719
East Carolina 51 49 13, 1 25 243,9 10 3,35 1
Easton 37 68 12,636 338,762 3,141
Florida 100 84 13,569 390,561 4,225
Fond du Lac 57 42 9,105 190,150 3,751
Georgia. 46 50 13,282 492,300 5>5 ^5
Indiana 65 61 15,660 J37,6oo 5,185
Iowa 105 77 17,385 887,400 6,481
Kansas. 96 48 9,090 316,225 3,593
Kentucky 47 57 34,935 75^1800 7,161
Long Island 110 147 43,642 4,868,500 23,690
Louisiana 85 65 15,099 387,950 5, 162
Maine 38 37 10,342 406,590 3,291
Maryland 147 204 60,742 2,833, 144 28,273
Massachusetts 166 172 57,613 4,6769 193 26,855
Michigan 126 123 33>77i 1,301,580 I3,559
Milwaukee 76 75 12,725 845,828 6,706
Minnesota 171 148 27,070 931,100 11,142
Mississippi 68 61 13,589 322,960 3,560
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334 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Dioceses and Missions. — Continued.
OifpuOi- Chundi
witiftm Edifices*
Missouri iii 84
Nebraska 56 50
Newark 78 98
New Hampshire. . . 44, 46
New Jersey 106 136
New York 210 251
North Carolina ... 127 112
Ohio 99 109
Oregon 31 25
Pennsylvania 139 165
Pittsburg 113 112
Quincy 40 39
Rhode Island 50 61
South Carolina. ... 94 88
Southern Ohio 67 75
Springfield 56 52
Tennessee 69 63
Texas 51 47
Vermont 63 56
Virginia 245 330
Western Michigan. 63 52
Western New York 116 117
West Virginia 61 63
Sealiiig
Value of
Com.
a-
Chinch
mnm.
padcy.
Pioperty.
cants.
23*035
9,285
$952,600
8,828
492,725
2,916
15,805
29*343
2,370,300
10,550
32,782
541,400
2,911
i»445,55o
14,298
91,240
19,662,450
53,593
4,835
21,596
301,100
30,515
1,101,100
9,946
4,014
361,930
70,202
6,868,971
33,459
26,895
1,774,045
10,603
10,960
172,500
2,201
20,949
1,189,700
9,458
21,041
571,853
5,742
18,904
9,875
968,687
7,508
223,725
3,301
16,275
575,900
5,671
II, no
13,087
305,200
3,229
472,050
4,335
^^
1,697,375
20,371
343,971
4,475
?5:IS
2,134,163
276,687
15,220
2,906
Alaska i ,1 200 1,200 6
Montana 30 22 2,375 165,450 1,104
Nevada and Utah.. 19 19 3,350 90,750 1,286
New Mexico and
Arizona 25 io>^ 1,940 65,381 552
North Dakota 39 892
NorthemCalifomia 27 25 4,325 119,342 1,114
Northern Texas. .. 39 31 6,060 187,350 2,037
Oklahoma and In-
dian Territory . . 4 2 325 4,000 105
South Dakota 86 72 9,625 244,632 2,037
The Platte 51 15 2,050 77,320 832
Washington 23 18 3,731 242,800 1,698
Western Texas ... 49 32 5,930 132,350 1,831
Wyom'g and Idaho 29 831
TotaL 5,019 5,019 1,336,952 $81,220,317 532,054
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PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL BODIES. 325
2. — ^THE REFORMED EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
This body was organized in 1873. Bishop Cummins,
of Kentucky, withdrew from the ministry of the Protestant
Episcopal Church that year, in consequence of certain crit-
icisms which had been uttered respecting his participation
in a union communion service in connection with the Sixth
Conference of the Evangelical Alliance. Bishop Cummins
met, in December, 1873, with seven clergymen and twenty
laymen in the city of New York, and it was resolved to
inaugurate a separate movement. Bishop Cummins was
chosen presiding officer of the new church, and the Rev.
C. £. Cheney, D.D., of Chicago, was elected bishop, and
subsequently consecrated by Bishop Cummins. A decla-
ration of principles was adopted setting forth the views
of the new body respecting doctrine, polity, worship, and
discipline. These principles were as follows :
" I. The Reformed Episcopal Church, holding ' the faith
once delivered unto the saints,' declares its belief in the
Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the
Word of God and the sole rule of faith and practice ; in
the creed ' commonly called the Apostles' Creed ' ; in the
divine institution of the sacraments of baptism and the
Lord's Supper ; and in the doctrines of grace substantially
as they are set forth in the Thirty-nine Articles of Religion.
" II. This church recognizes and adheres to Episcopacy,
not as of divine right, but as a very ancient and desirable
form of church polity.
'' III. This church, retaining a liturgy which shall not
be imperative or repressive of freedom in prayer, accepts
the Book of Common Prayer, as it was revised, proposed,
and recommended for use by the general convention of
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326 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
the Protestant Episcopal Church, A.D. 1785, reserving full
liberty to alter, abridge, enlarge, and amend the same,
as may seem most conducive to the edification of the
people, ' provided that the substance of the faith be kept
entire.'
" IV. This Church condemns and rejects the following
erroneous and strange doctrines as contrary to God's Word :
" First, that the Church of Christ exists only in one order
or form of ecclesiastical polity ;
" Second, that Christian ministers are ' priests ' in another
sense than that in which all believers are ' a royal priest-
hood';
" Third, that the Lord's Table is an altar on which the
oblation of the body and blood of Christ is offered anew to
the Father;
" Fourth, that the presence of Christ in the Lord's Sup-
per is a presence in the elements of bread and wine ;
" Fifth, that regeneration is inseparably connected with
baptism."
At a general council of the Reformed Episcopal Church,
held at Chicago, 111., in May, 1874, articles of religion were
adopted, thirty-five in number. They follow closely the
Anglican articles of religion, with such changes as are in-
dicated by the principles adopted in 1873. At the same
meeting of the general council a revised Book of Common
Prayer was also adopted. The church recognizes but two
orders in the ministry, that of presbyter and that of deacon.
It holds that the episcopate is not an order but an office,
the bishop being simply first presbyter. The bishops do
not constitute a separate house in the general council as in
the general convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church.
They preside over synods or jurisdictions, which correspond
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PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL BODIES. 327
more or less closely to dioceses and jurisdictions of the
Protestant Episcopal Church.
The Reformed Episcopal Church has 83 organizations,
84 church edifices, valued at $1,615,101, and 8455 com-
municants. It is represented in twelve States, including
Virginia and South Carolina, and it has two synods and
three missionary jurisdictions. The average seating capac-
ity of the edifices b 285, and their average value $19,227.
There are 2 halls, with a seating capacity of 300.
SuiciCARY BY States.
ri.^x--i_ m.....!. Scadng Value of Com-
piaty« Piopcftjf. owt>
Delaware 2 2 650 $16,500 139
lUinois 10 10 49250 225,8cx> 1,755
Maryland 4 5 1,375 46,000 285
Illmois 10 10 4*250 225,800 1,755
Maryland 4 5 1,375 46,000 285
Massachusetts 2 2 850 44*000 311
Michigan 2 2 350 8,100 102
Missouri 2 2 050 25,000 135
New Jersey 2 3 725 44*500 326
New York 4 4 1,775 280,400 743
Ohio 3 2 1,100 33*700 257
Pennsylvania 13 15 5,800 870,000 2,640
Virginia 2 2 425 2,700 49
South Carolina (col-
ored) 37 36 5,975 18,401 1,723
TotaL %i 84 23,925 $1,615, loi 8,455
Summary by Synods.
Chicago 13 12 4,850 $220,800 1,684
New York and Phila-
delphia 23 25 9,800 1,255,400 4,159
Missionary Jurisdic-
tion of the South . 6 7 1,800 48,700 334
Missionary Jurisdic-
tion of the West
and Northwest .. . 4 4 1,500 71*800 555
Special Missionary
Jurisdiction of the
South (colored) .37 36 5,975 18,401 1,723
Total 83 84 23,925 $1,615,101 8,455
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328 REUGJOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
The totals of the two bodies are: OrganizationSy 5102;
church edifices, 5103; seating capacity, 1,360,877; value
of church property, $82,835,418; communicants, 540,509.
The Reformed Episcopal Church adds no considerable
number to the communicants of the Protestant Episcopal
Church, except in Pennsylvania (2640), Illinois (1755), and
South Carolina (1723). It contributes to the total valua^
tion of church property upward of $1,600,000.
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CHAPTER XXXIII.
THE REFORMED BODIES.
There are three Reformed churches in the United
States, the chief of which are the Reformed Church in
America and the Reformed Church in the United States.
The Reformed churches belong to the Presbyterian fam-
ily in polity and doctrine, though their standards are not
those of Westminster and their ecclesiastical terms differ
somewhat from those generally used by the Presbyte-
rian churches. They have consistories instead of sessions,
classes instead of presbyteries, and general synods instead
of general assemblies. The origin of the Reformed Church
in America is traced to the Reformed Church of Holland ;
that of the Reformed Church in the United States to the
Reformed Church in Germany. For the sake of distinction
the former is popularly called the Reformed Dutch and the
latter the Reformed German Church. These two bodies,
both of which looked for aid and direction to the classis of
Amsterdam until late in the eighteenth century, agreed in
1 89 1, through their general synods, upon a plan of federal
union, by which, if it should be ratified by the classes,
while each retained its autonomy, a community of interest
would be established respecting missionary and educational
matters, and a federal synod, representing both churches
and having advisory powers, would be held annually. The
plan, however, failed, the classes of the Reformed Dutch
329
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330 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Church declining to ratify it, and the general synod of
that body regretfully declaring the fact, in 1893.
I. — ^THE REFORMED CHURCH IN AMERICA.
The Rev. Jonas Michaelius organized in New Amster-
dam, in 16289 the first church of this 6rder in this country.
It embraced fifty communicants, "Walloons and Dutch."
As the Dutch immigrants settled along the Hudson, on
Long Island, and in New Jersey, congregations of their
faith were gathered. A number of these churches are still
in existence upward of two centuries old. The first organ-
ization, termed the "coetus," was formed in 1747 by per-
mission of the classis of Amsterdam. It had no ecclesias-
tical power, but was merely advisory, the classis reserving
all power to itself. In 1755 a minority of the "coetus,"
dissatisfied with the assumption by that body of larger
powers, formed a " conferentie." This was the beginnii^
of a sharp controversy, which was ended in 1770 in the
union of the two bodies in a self-governing organization.
This system was further developed in 1793, and finally
perfected in the present ecclesiastical government of the
church.
The stream of Dutch immigration ceased to flow in the
latter half of the seventeenth century. This fact, with cer-
tain peculiar difficulties encountered by the church, accounts
for its failure to attain to g^reater numerical strength. The
Dutch language having ceased to be the language of its
worship many years ago, the word " Dutch " was eliminated
from its title in 1867. In consequence of a considerable
immigration from Holland in late years, which has settled
in Michigan and other Western States, there are many
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THE REFORMED BODIES. 331
congregations in that section in which the Dutch tongue is
now used.
The Reformed Church accepts the Apostles', the Nicene,
and the Athanasian creeds, the Belgic Confession, the can-
ons of the Synod of Dort, and the Heidelberg Catechism
as its doctrinal symbols. It is a distinctively Calvinistic
body. The church has a liturgy for use in public worship,
including an order of Scripture lessons, an order of worship,
and forms of prayer. These, however, are not obligatory,
and are not generally used. Forms for the administration
of baptism and the Lord's Supper, for the ordination of
ministers, etc., are imperative.
The church has thirty-three classes in this country.
There are also four particular synods, which consist of
representatives from classes. Above the particular synods
is a general synod, which meets annually. The particular
synod of New York embraces 8 classes ; that of Albany, 9 ;
that of Chicago, 7 ; and that of New Brunswick, 9.
The largest classis is that of New York, which has 8881
communicants, with church property valued at $3,308,000.
The total number of communicants is 92,970. These be-
long to 572 organizations, and own 670 edifices, only 8
halls, with a seating capacity of 751, being rented for
public worship. These church edifices have a total value
of $10,340,159, which indicates an average for each church
of $15,439. The average seating capacity is 385.
The denomination is represented only in fourteen States.
New York has 52,228 communicants, and New Jersey
24,057. In these two States, therefore, are more than
four fifths of the entire number of communicants, with
church property valued at $9,536,309, or within $803,850
of the entire valuation for the denomination.
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332 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
Omai-
Illinois 25
Indiana. 3
Iowa 26
Kansas 2
Michigan 45
Minnesota 3
Nebraska 4
New Jersey 124
New York 302
North Dakota 2
Ohio 2
Pennsylvania 8
South Dakota 15
Wisconsin 11
TotaL 572
Chuxdi
Ediikes
s^
Value of
Chmch
Com.
numU
• padty.
Propertj.
caiMs.
27
9,895
$169,800
2,820
A
700
9,000
172
8,104
90,900
2,605
2
400
262,800
46
50
17,229
6,609
3
750
10,000
145
3
960
7,500
344
155
65,445
2,091,029
24,057
35«
142,380
7,445,280
52,228
2
205
750
89
2
600
8,100
156
10
4,930
2,899
178,500
1,756
14
23,900
594
13
3,425
40,100
1,349
670 257,922 $10,340, 159 92,970
Summary by Classes.
Albany 17
Bergen 19
Bergen (South Clas-
sis) 12
Dakota 18
Grand River 21
Greene 7
Holland 19
Hudson 14
Illinois 17
Iowa 23
Kingston 19
Long Island (North
Classis) 22
Long Island (South
Ckssis) 20
Michigan 9
Monmouth 10
Montgomery 31
Newark 17
New Brunswick 12
New York 30
18
8,250
$360,000
3,340
22
9,200
316,000
2,764
14
6,100
327,500
30,850
3,094
17
3,604
8,455
749
1
i3«,4oo
3,327
1,603
3,150
73,500
22
6,024
72,000
2,530
I3>i
5,235
4,985
121,150
2,087
19
65,000
984
25
6,944
85,700
2,395
I7}i
7,150
146,800
2,766
35
15,090
547,500
4,062
28
13,345
896,500
4,443
10
4,050
76,000
1,013
12
4,200
94,079
1,417
33
11,025
338,500
3,513
21
16
8,805
538,500
189,600
iv^
33
19,179
3,308,000
8,881
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THE REFORMED BODIES. 333
Summary by Classes. — ConHnued.
Or^iani- Churqh
xatKms. Edifirit.
Seating
Value of
Con.
Ca!^
Chuich
mu&i-
padty.
Property.
cants.
10,790
$235,150
358,800
3,649
11,355
3,966
5.975
8,035
153,250
2,272
216,300
2,880
6,475
234,000
2,262
9,080
161,000
3,423
5,330
5,380
124,380
2,090
89,200
2,415
4,775
144,800
1,973
6,585
186,500
2,506
5,286
60,150
1,138
6,740
187,250
2,593
7,125
306,400
2,021
11,105
164,400
3,931
357,922 $]
10,340,159
92,970
Orange 26 28
Paramus 24 34
Passaic 12 14
Philadelphia 13 17
Poughkeepsie 14 17
Raritan 14 19
Rensselaer 14 18
Rochester 13 17
Saratoga 13 13
Schenectady 11 18
Schoharie 17 17
Ulster 18 20
Westchester 15 20
Wisconsin 31 31
TotaL 572 670
2. — ^THE REFORMED CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES.
The original source of this body was the Reformed
Church established in the Palatinate, one of the provinces
of Germany. On account of severe persecutions the Pala-
tine reformers were scattered, many finding refuge in this
country in the early part of the eighteenth century. There
were Germans among the American colonists, however,
before this period. From 1700 to 1746 many thousand
settled in Pennsylvania and elsewhere, and a number of
Reformed congregations having been gathered, a " ccetus "
(an ecclesiastical organization having advisory powers) was
formed in 1747, the same year that the Reformed Dutch
organized their " coetus " in New York.
In response to most earnest appeals from the Rev.
Michael Schlatter, who wa4 a sort of general missionary
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334 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
and organizer, gathering scattered members together and
ministering to pastoriess organizations, the Reformed
Church of Holland raised nearly $60,000, the interest of
which was devoted to the erection of churches and school-
houses and the support of ministers. Help was also re-
ceived for the education of youth from a society in London.
In 1 793 the " ccetus " became a synod and the Reformed
German Church an entirely independent body. There are
now 8 synods, 6 of which are English and 2 German. The
Eastern Synod embraces 1 1 classes ; that of Ohio, 6 ; that
of the Northwest, 10; that of Pittsburg, 5; that of the
Potomac, 9 ; the German Synod of the East, 5 ; the Cen-
tral Synod, 4; and the Synod of the Interior, 5.
Below the synods are classes, corresponding to presby-
teries in the Presbyterian churches, and above the s3aiods
is a general synod, which is the supreme legislative and
judicial body of the church. It meets once every three
years, and was organized in 1863.
Like the Reformed (Dutch) Church, the Reformed
(German) Church is Calvinistic in doctrine. Its symbol
is the Heidelberg Catechism, which is also accepted by
the former body. In substance the Heidelberg Catechism
is Augustinian, says Prof. T. G. Apple, respecting the doc-
trines of natural depravity and salvation by free grace
alone ; but it does not, like some other Calvinistic symbols,
teach a decree of reprobation as well as a decree of election.
The Reformed Church has a liturgical system of worship,
but its use is optional with congregations.
The Reformed (German) Church (it dropped the word
" German " from its title in 1869) has fifty-five classes. It
is represented in twenty-eight States and in the District of
Columbia, and has many cong^regations in foreign mission
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THE REFORMED BODIES.
335
fields. Half its organizations and considerably more than
half its communicants are in the Sta^e of Pennsylvania. It
is also particularly strong in the State of Ohio, Maryland
ranking third. The total value of its church property is
$7,975,583. Its 1 5 10 organizations own 1304 edifices,
with an average seating capacity of 410 and an average
value of $61 15. There are 61 halls, with accommodations
for 6504.
Summary by States.
California 3 2
Colorado i i
Connecticut i i
Delaware i i
Dist of Columbia. 2 2
Illinois 30 25^
Indiana 60 56
Iowa 34 31
Kansas 25 14
Kentucky 10 6
Maryland 67 63
Massachusetts i i
Michigan 17 12
Minnesota 10 8
Missouri 11 7
Nebraska 14 10
Newjeney 5 5
New York 13 13
North Carolina ... 39 36
North Dakota .... 3 i
Ohio 394 283
Oregon 10 6
Pennsylvania 754 618
South DakoU 16 13
Tennessee 3 3
Virginia 20 22
Washington 5 4
West Virginia 6 5
Wisconsin 55 54^
Total 1,510 1,304
Seating
Value or
Com.
olr
Chmcli
muni.
- l»city.
Pkopertjr.
cants.
300
$11,000
68
250
20,000
35
450
18,000
150
200
2,000
69
375
31,000
301
7,500
73,200
1,783
16,080
231,775
6,269
7,635
66,350
2,513
3,357
49,900
9«4
1,630
37,500
484,225
1,350
27,320
10,741
450
56,000
62
3,675
47,900
17,820
1,013
1,511
?s
1,475
18,800
1,500
14,100
830
1,309
5,850
23,800
204,200
3,432
14,150
49,000
2,903
200
600
161
89,879
1,128,275
35,846
1,000
29,300
298
322,173
5,121,328
122,944
2,700
11,750
1,000
7,260
2,500
44,800
236
1,819
|5^
11,410
167
1,850
25,300
794
13,275
143,750
5,9«>
534,254 $7,975,583 204,018
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336 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Classes.
OiKsnt' duiidi
Seating
Ca.
AUegbeny 13
Carlisle 31
Chicago 7
Cincinnati 18
Clarion 29
Eastern Ohio 28
East Pennsylvania. 49
East Susquehanna. 45
Erie 27
German Maryland. 8
German Philadelp'a 18
Gettysburg 24
Goshenhoppen. ... 31
Heidelberg 27
Illinois 21
Indiana 31
Iowa 18
Juniata 50
Lancaster (Ohio) . . 29
Lancaster (Penn.) 40
Lebanon 54
Lehigh 35
Lincoln 4
Maryland 57
Mercersburg 25
Miami 55
Milwaukee 20
Minnesota 21
Missouri 9
Nebraska 14
New York 8
North Carolina. ... 39
Philadelphia 30
Portland (Oregon). 18
Saint John's 24
Saint Joseph's 42
Saint Paul's 20
Schuylkill 45
Sheboygan 28
Somerset 36
South Dakota. 16
Tiffin 34
13
4,502
n)i
6,780
7
2,050
18
7,030
2t}i
8,740
23>i
8,950
31
27,690
3i}i
18,600
27
7,369
7
3,625
18
9,539
24
11,500
23
18,020
33
8,735
16
4,850
27
6,550
u
4,050
15,110
9
2,250
25
8,300
32
16,575
33
30,650
37
20,750
2
400
55 ^
23,220
23>i
9,945
54
17,539
20
5,320
19
3,536
6
1,075
II
1,750
8
3,320
^t.
14,150
28>i
12,225
12
1,850
22>i
7,475
33 ^
10,825
19^
5,750
32
21,490
28
6,805
33
8,926
14
2,900
31
9,186
Vflhieor
Chorcb
Proper^.
$124,100
82,900
35,500
216, 100
74,600
46,600
393,450
187,000
136,500
94,525
376,800
145,600
285,500
114,000
31,700
138,450
25,500
168,036
31,700
77,500
257,100
180,300
408,100
11,200
412,500
134,667
176,300
57,650
37,420
6,800
34,100
215,200
49,000
509,600
51,710
111,550
100,600
84,000
517,900
74,600
100,650
12,350
104,750
1,767
2,212
3,635
2,999
3,389
10,021
4,751
4,521
2,463
6,116
4,987
7,306
4,642
776
5,400
678
2,656
5,508
11,456
9,208
169
8,112
3,029
5,678
2,611
1,450
541
973
1,871
2,903
5,454
533
4,440
2,332
2,585
11,282
3,007
3,i6q
1,098
2,396
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THE REFORMED BODIES.
337
Summary by Classbs. — CrnHnued.
0»«uii. Church Sgdng Wjwof C^
ntoons. Edifices. • i-nurcn mum-
•MMMiM ^•"■^ ^ paaty. Ploperty. cants.
Tohickon 39 24>i 21,235 $257,350 7,636
Tuscarawas 45 42 139650 i44>5oo 4,665
Ursinus 12 10 2,360 24,050 1,300
Virginia 24 26 8,560 64, 100 2,283
Westmoreland 31 28 10,550 200,400 3,962
West New York. . . 9 9 4,350 86,000 2,583
West Pennsylvania 6 6 1,925 23,300 905
West Susquehanna 50 39^ 14,840 182,000 4,236
Wichita 12 6 i>407 30,200 351
Wyoming 37 34 12,070 179.250 5,257
Zion's(In(L) 28 28 7,205 90,600 3,435
Zion's (Penn.) 34 22 16,200 259,725 4,254
Total 1,510 1,304 534,254 $7,9751583 204,018
3. — ^THE CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH.
This body is a branch of an organization of the same
name in Holland. In 1835 there was a secession from the
Reformed Church of Holland of ministers and others who
were dissatisfied with the prevailing tone of the doctrinal
teaching of the State church and with some features of its
government. This was the origin of the Christian Re-
formed Church of Holland. It has been represented in
this country many years. In 1882 its numbers were in-
creased by a secession of ministers and members of the
particular synod of Chicago, Reformed (Dutch) Church,
because of the refusal of the general synod of the latter
body to denounce freemasonry and to make connection
with that order a subject of church discipline. Finding
the position of the Christian Reformed Church more to
their mind, they united with it. In 1889 the church was
still further increased by the accession of a number of con-
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338 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
gregations belonging to the True Reformed Church, oigan-
ized in 1822 by a number of ministers who had seceded
from the Reformed Dutch Church.
The Christian Reformed Church has seven classes and
one synod. Connected with the classes are 99 organiza-
tions, with 106 edifices, valued at $428,500, and 12,470
communicants. More than half of the latter are to be found
in the State of Michigan. The average value of the church
edifices is $4042, and the average seating capacity 318.
There are 4 halls, with accommodations for 200 persons.
Summary by States.
Ornm- Chun* S??^ ^"*?^ ^"
pscitjr. I'roperty. cmtB.
Illinois 7 8 2,250 $29,000 782
Indiana i 2 300 3»ooo 320
Iowa. 6 6 i»95o 19,000 623
Kansas 2 2 225 39O00 109
Michigan 44 52 191380 i74yioo 7,782
Minnesota 4 i 100 800 93
Nebraska 2 i 100 1,200 96
New Jersey 13 14 4,725 115,500 1*323
New York 8 8 1,995 48,800 313
North Dakota i i 125 500 37
Ohio 3 3 750 19,500 253
South Dakota. 4 4 830 6,000 289
Wisconsin 4 4 1,025 8,100 450
TotaL 99 106 33,755 $428,500 12,470
Summary by Classes.
CLASSBS.
Grand Rapids 16 18 8,630 $85,900 2,900
Hackensack 13 14 4,245 i37»5oo 531
Holland 17 19 6,340 47,500 3,088
Hudson 8 8 2,475 36,800 1,105
Illinois 12 13 3,725 49, 100 1,637
Iowa. 20 17 3,530 35.500 1,292
Muskegon 13 17 4,810 48,200 1,917
TotaL 99 106 33,755 $428,500 12,470
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THE REFORMED BODIES.
339
Summary by States of all Reformed Bodies.
sTATn. Ormmi- Church
California 3 2
Colorado i i
Connecticut i i
Delaware i i
Dist of Columbia . 2 2
Illinois 62 61
Indiana 64 61
Iowa 66 65
Kansas. 29 18
Kentucky 10 6
Maryland 67 63
Massachusetts i i
Michigan 106 1 14
Minnesota. 17 12
Missouri II 7
Nebraska 20 14
New Jersey 142 174
New York 323 379
North Carolina ... 39 36
North Dakota 6 4
Ohio 299 288
Oregon 10 6
Pennsylvania 762 628
South DakoU 35 31
Tennessee 3 3
Virginia 20 23
Washington 5 4
West Virginia 6 5
Wisconsin 70 71
TotaL 2,181 2,080
Seating
-— •
Value of
Church
" J-dty.
Property.
300
$11,000
250
20,000
450
18,000
a,ooo
375
31,000
19,645
272,000
17,080
243,775
176,250
17,689
3,882
55,400
1,630
37,500
27,320
484,225
450
40,284
56,000
484,800
2,361
28,620
1,475
18,800
2,560
22,800
71,749
2,230,329
150,225
7,698,280
14,150
49,000
530
1,850
91,229
1,155,875
1,000
29,300
5,299,828
327,103
6,429
41,650
450
2,500
7,260
44,800
S5^
1,850
11,410
25,300
17,725
191,950
Com.
68
35
69
301
6,761
5,741
1,139
1,350
10,741
62
15,404
968
586
1,408
26,210
55,973
2,903
287
36,255
298
124,700
1,883
236
1,819
167
794
7,765
825,931 $18,744,242 309,458
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CHAPTER XXXIV.
THE SALVATION ARMY.
This body was organized in London, England, in
1876, by William Booth. He had been engaged for sev-
eral years previously in evangelistic work in the east of
London, chiefly among those who were beyond the reach
of ordinary religious influences. He was formerly a min-
ister of the Methodist New Connection, withdrawing from
the regular ministry in 186 1 for independent evangelistic
work. The new organization was speedily introduced into
various countries of Europe, into the United States, Aus-
tralia, and elsewhere.
In doctrine the Salvation Army is thoroughly evangeli-
cal. Its teachings are given in a book which has been pre-
pared by the " general " of the Army, Mr. Booth. This
book of doctrine and discipline sets forth the ordinary doc-
trines respecting God and Christ ; the sinfulness of man ;
the work of redemption ; the atonement, which is described
as general ; election, of which the Arminian view is taken ;
the Holy Ghost ; repentance and faith as conditions of sal-
vation ; the forgiveness of sins ; conversion ; the two na-
tures of man ; assurance, setting forth the Methodist view ;
sanctification, which is emphasized as one of the more im-
portant doctrines. Entire sanctification is described as a
" complete deliverance." " Sin is destroyed out of the
soul, and all the powers, faculties, possessions, and influ-
ences of the soul are given up to the service and glory of
340
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THE SALVATION ARMY. 341
God.*' No fewer than seven sections of the Book of Dis-
cipline are given to the doctrine of sanctification ; back-
sliding also forms a section, and so also do final persever-
ance, " death and after/' hell, the Bible, and baptism. The
Army recognizes women's right to preach, and full direc-
tions are given how to proceed " in getting men saved."
The government is military in form, and military titles
are used in designating the various officers, and military
terms in describing the various departments of the work.
The officers are: (i) the commander-in-chief, who has the
general direction of the entire army ; (2) the chief of staff,
who has the oversight of all the business at the war office,
known as headquarters ; (3) a lieutenant-general, who trav-
els under the direction of the commander-in-chief and in-
spects various divisions ; (4) a general, who has command
of a division ; (5) a captain, who conmiands a single corps ;
(6) a lieutenant, who is under the direction of the captain ;
(7) a color sergeant, who has charge of the colors and car-
ries them in procession ; (8) a paymaster-sergeant, or treas-
urer, who cares for all the moneys of a corps ; (9) a pay-
master-secretary. There are also sergeants who lead bands,
and there are various other officers. The sergeants are
appointed by the captains. The treasurers and secretaries
are recommended for appointment to the generals of divis-
ions, and the commissions are issued by the general- in-chief.
The term of office is indefinite.
AH members of the Salvation Army on active duty wear
a uniform. The places where meetings are regularly held
are usually called " barracks."
The Salvation Army in the United States is represented
in thirty States, also in the territory of Utah and the Dis-
trict of Columbia. It has 329 organizations, with 2^ church
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342 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
edifices, or barracks, which are valued at $38,150. Of
halls, etc., 300, with a seating capacity of 87,101, are
occupied. There are in all 8742 communicants or mem-
bers. It is not the chief aim of the army to make converts
for membership in its own organization. Many of those
who are converted through its labors join various other
denominations.
Summary by States.
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia.
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South DakoU
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
29
10
6
I
I
28
A
12
9
7
14
28
13
12
3
I
I
4
32
2
30
3
30
2
2
4
I
3
5
2
14
Church
Edifices.
4
I
5
3
Seadng
pwaty.
1,500
700
600
250
2,025
hZoo
1,720
I, no
1,000
150
1,250
450
Value of
Churdi
Proper^.
$9,188
2,000
2,235
Com-
5>i3o
1,000
2,200
875
5,997
1,150
340
214
^ 203
153
23
922
104
397
307
265
213
656
1,099
460
340
30
625
655
44
772
3«
41
35
4
54
156
7
322
Total 329 27 12,055 $38,150 8,742
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Seatinff
ValiMof
Com-
Ca-
Chtnch
Boni.
pacity.
Proporty.
cants.
700
$2,000
214
538
1,250
5>997
SI
....
....
....
....
759
THE SALVATION ARMY. 343
Summary by Divisions.
DIV1SI0M8. aaSoM. Edifices.
Colorado and Wyo-
ming 10 I
Centrsu 22
East Pennsylvania.. 16 3
Iowa and Dakota. . . 18
Illinois and Indiana. 22
Kansas, Missouri,
and Nebraska ... 25 666
Massachusetts, Con-
necticut, and
Rhode Island 22 3 1,900 3,235 890
Maine and New
Hampshire 10
Michigan 28 5
New York Sute 16
Northwestern 37 4
Ohio 32 I
Pittsburg and West
Pennsylvania .... 12
Pacific Coast 41 3
Southern 14 7
Texas 4
Total 329 27 12,055 $38, 150 8,742
....
291
1,720
7,575
>.099
....
284
1,3^
800
1,049
150
875
663
326
1,500
9,188
574
3.475
8,480
502
35
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CHAPTER XXXV.
THE SCHWENKFELDERS.
Kaspar von Schwenkfeld, a nobleman of Germany,
born in the fifteenth century, differed from other Reformers
of the period on a number of points concerning the Lord's
Supper, the efficacy of the external Word, and Christ's hu-
man nature. He did not form a separate sect, but his fol-
lowers did so after his death, taking his name. Early in
the eighteenth century they were scattered by persecution.
Some fled to Denmark, whence they came to this country
near the close of the first half of that century. They set-
tled in Pennsylvania, where a remnant of them still exist
They celebrate the arrival from Denmark annually, making
it a kind of festival.
They hold in general to the doctrines of the German
Reformation, with a few peculiarities. The words of
Christ, " This is my body," they interpret as meaning,
" My body is this," i.e., such as this bread, which is broken
and consumed, and affords true and real food for the souL
The external Word, as they believe, has no power to renew ;
only the internal Word, which is Christ himself. The hu-
man nature of Christ was not a created substance. Being
associated with the divine essence, it had a majestic dignity
of its own.
Among the customs peculiar to the Schwenkfelders is
a service of prayer and exhortation over newly bom infants,
344
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THE SCHWENKFELDERS 345
repeated in church when the mother and child appear. The
churches are Congregational in government, each electing
its minister and officers annually. The former is chosen by
lot
Summary.
Ornni. Chinch ^"^ TS^?' ^^
xMKNia. aoinoem. p«dty. Proporty. cants.
Pennsylvania 4 6 1,925 $i2,aoo 306
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CHAPTER XXXVI.
THE SOCIAL BRETHREN CHURCH.
This is a small body of about twenty congregations in
Arkansas and Illinois, which had its beginning in 1867. In
that year a number of members of various bodies, whose
views concerning certain passages of Scripture and certain
points of discipline were not in harmony with the churches
to which they belonged, came together and organized a
church and subsequently an association of churches. In
1887 a discipline, containing a statement of doctrine and
rules for the government of the churches and the ordination
of ministers, was adopted. The Confession of Faith, which
consists of ten articles, sets forth the commonly received
doctrine of the Trinity, the Holy Scriptures, the evangeli-
cal doctrine of redemption, regeneration, and sanctification,
declaring that he that endures unto the end the same shall
be saved; holding that baptism and the Lord's Supper
are ordinances made binding by Christ, and none but true
believers are the proper subjects. Three modes of admin-
istering baptism are recognized, and candidates are allowed
to choose between them. The eighth, ninth, and tenth
articles declare the right of lay members to free suffrage
and free speech, that candidates shall be received into full
membership by the voice of the church, and that ministers
are called to preach the gospel, and not to preach politics
or anything else. The associations correspond in general
346
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THE SOCIAL BRETHfiEN CHURCH. 347
usage to Baptist associations. There are two classes in the
ministry, ordained and licensed, also exhorters and stewards,
as in the Methodist churches, and ordained deacons, as in
the Baptist. It is quite evident that the denomination was
originally formed of Baptists and Methodists, the ideas of
both these denominations and some of their usages being
incorporated in the new body.
There are 20 oi^ganizations, with 11 edifices, valued at
$8700, and 913 members; 6 halls, with accommodations
for 600, are occupied.
Summary by States.
rv.,.«: ri«,m.k Scaring Vdneof Com-
pscity. Pipopaty.
800 $1,000
Illinois 16 10 7i9oo 7>7oo 830
Arkansas. 4 i 800 $1,000 83
Total 20 II 8,700 $8,700 913
Summary by Associations.
ASSOCIATIONS.
Northw'n Arkansas. 4 i 800 $1,000 83
Southern Illinois ... 10 8 7, 100 6,900 675
Wabash 6 2 800 800 155
Total so II 8,700 $8,700 913
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CHAPTER XXXVII.
THE SOCIETY FOR ETHICAL CULTURE.
This society was founded in New York in 1876 by Prof.
Felix Adler. It was announced as " the new religion of
morality, whose God is The Good, whose church is the
universe, whose heaven is here on earth, and not in the
clouds." Its aims have been thus defined by Professor
Adler:
" I. To teach the supremacy of the moral ends above
all other human ends and interests.
''II. To teach that the moral law has an immediate
authority not contingent on the truth of religious beliefs
or of philosophical theories.
" III. To advance the science and art of right living."
Meetings are held on Sunday, at which addresses or
lectures are delivered. Societies having been organized
in Chicago, Philadelphia, and St Louis, as well as in New
York, a convention was held in 1886, and "The Union of
the Societies for Ethical Culture " formed, with a consti-
tution calling for annual meetings. The four societies
report an aggregate of 1064 members. The New York
society has a cash fund in hand of $60,000. The 5 halls
occupied have a seating capacity of 6260.
In connection with the New York Society considerable
educational and philanthropic work is carried on, both by
34S
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THE SOCIETY FOR ETHICAL CULTURE.
349
men and women, who seek the necessitous and endeavor
both to relieve and elevate them, and also to prepare them
to get their own living.
Summary by States.
Illinois I . .
Missouri i
New York i ....
Pennsylvania i . .
Total 4
Value oT
Church
Property.
Com-
175
6oo
139
1,064
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CHAPTER XXXVIII.
THE SPIRITUALISTS.
What is known as modem spiritualism began with
" demonstrations " in the Fox family in HydesviUe, N. Y.,
in March, 1848. The same phenomena had been common
in Shaker communities before that date^ and, indeed, in
almost all ages and among many different peoples ; but it
was then that these demonstrations, generally in the form
of rappings, began to be interpreted as communications
from the disembodied spirits of men and women who had,
in the ordinary course of nature, passed away, but whose
spirits were still in a living and active state. From this
time individuals began to investigate these spirit manifesta-
tions, circles began to be formed, mediums were discovered,
lecturers recognized, and a literature established.
Spiritualists claim that the miracles of Christ are ex-
plained by the central doctrine of their belief, and they
regard the demonstrations of spiritualism as establishing
by evidence the fact of a future life. They do not hold
that God is a personal being, but that he exists in all things.
Eternal progression is the law of the spirit world, and every
individual will attain supreme wisdom and unalloyed hap-
piness.
A few spiritualist societies employ permanent speakers,
but usually they appoint lecturers for limited terms, varying
from a week to several months. A large proportion of the
350
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THE SPIRITUALISTS. 35 1
lecturers are mediums, who are believed to speak under
the influence or direction of the spirit who guides or con-
trols them. They follow the Scriptural injunction : " Take
no thought how or what ye shall speak, for it shall be
given you in that same hour what ye shall speak." When
a lecturer appears before an audience, therefore, he asks
that a subject be given him, and when he receives it begins
to speak upon it without hesitation. Summer gatherings
or camp meetings, which continue from one to ten weeks,
have become prominent among the spiritualists. In 1891
twenty-two such meetings were held.
The spiritualists report 334 organizations, with 30 regu-
lar church edifices, not including halls, pavilions, and other
places owned or occupied by them. There are 45,030
members, and the value of the property reported, which
includes camp grounds as well as church edifices, pavilions,
etc., is $573,650. Not many of the halls are owned by
them. There are members in thirty-six States, besides the
District of Columbia and the Territories of Oklahoma and
Utah. Among the States Massachusetts has the greatest
number, 7345 ; New York stands second, with 6351 ; and
Pennsylvania third, with 4569. There are 307 halls, with
accommodations for 72,522.
Summary by States.
rwMttS rknMoii Sealing Value of Com-
••uwuM «:Mtuw«. pacity. Property. cants.
Arkansas i i 300 $1,000 25
California 20 i 250 191325 19869
Colorado 2 600 275
Connecticut 19 4 1,650 20,810 2,354
District of Columbia 3 475
Florida 2 .... 750 65
Georgia 2 .... 169
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352 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by Statbs. — Camtmued.
Qiuich ^Q^
Illinois 7
Indiana 5
Iowa 13
Kansas 9
Kentucky i
Louisiana 3
Maine 21
Maryland 6
Massachusetts 61
Michigan 27
Minnesota 3
Missouri 5
Montana i
Nebraska 4
New Hampshire ... 6
New Jersey 2
New York 34
Ohio 25
Oklahoma i
Oregon 6
Pennsylvania 12
Rhode Island.
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington . . .
West Virginia .
Wisconsin
Wyoming
4
I
6
I
I
10
I
4
I
3
I
250
500
SCO
500
lOOO
650
000
500
Value of
Chuich
350 $10,500
4,850
23»o75
400
15,650
269,710
11,500
13,100
33i25o
3»35o
58,600
36,000
23,250
27,000
Com-
1,314
2,613
627
300
120
2,562
665
7,345
2,565
i~
853
20
290
672
100
6,351
2,174
26
4,569
150
20
1,075
80
1,966
12
65
354
50
Total 334 30 20,450 $573,650 45,030
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CHAPTER XXXIX.
THE THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY.
The first branch of this society in the United States
was founded in New York in November, 1875. Its de-
clared objects are :
" First, to form a nucleus of a Universal Brotherhood of
Humanity, without distinction of race, creed, or color.
"Second, to promote the study of Aryan and other
Eastern literatures, religions, and sciences, and demonstrate
the importance of that study.
" Third, to investigate unexplained laws of nature and
the psychical powers latent in man."
A circular, issued for the information of inquirers by the
general secretary of the American section, states that the
society is unsectarian and interferes with no person's re-
ligious belief. Another circular, entitled "An Epitome of
Theosophy," issued by the secretary of the executive com-
mittee of the Pacific Coast, states that some of the funda-
mental propositions of Theosophy, or " Wisdom Religion,"
are : That the spirit in man is the only real and permanent
portion of his being ; that between the spirit and the in-
tellect is a " plane of consciousness in which experiences
are noted," and that this spiritual nature is " as susceptible
of culture as the body or intellect " ; that spiritual culture
is only attainable as the grosser interests and passions of
the flesh are subordinate ; that men, systematically trained,
353
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354 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
may, by their interior faculties, " attain to clear insight into
the immaterial, spiritual world " ; that, as a result of this
spiritual training, men become able to perform works usu-
ally called " miraculous."
The Theosophical Society has branches in seventeen
States and the District of Columbia. Forty organizations
are reported, with 695 members. Of the 40 organizations
14 are in California. There are 38 halls, with accoomio-
dations for 181 5.
Summary by States.
Omm- Church fS"*
tttiont. Edifices. ^^
P«city.
California 14
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Louisiana
Maryland ,
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri 2
Nebraska 4
New York 2
Ohio 2
Pennsylvania i
Washington i
Wisconsin i
200
VahKof
ChuFclk
Property.
$500
75
Cooi.
Total.
40
200
35
$600
216
4
10
5
57
8
10
13
41
97
5a
25
9
_9
6^
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CHAPTER XL.
THE UNITED BRETHREN.
The United Brethren in Christ are sometimes con-
founded with the Unitas Fratrum or Moravian Brethren.
Though some of the historians of the former body claim
that it was connected in some way with the Ancient and
Renewed Brethren of Bohemia and Moravia, the United
Brethren in Christ and the Moravians are wholly separate
and distinct, and have no actual historical relations. The
Moravians were represented in this country long before the
United Brethren in Christ arose, which was about the year
1800.
Philip William Otterbein, a native of Prussia and a min-
ister of the German Reformed Church, and Martin Boehm,
a Mennonite pastor in Pennsylvania, of Swiss descent, were
the chief founders of the church of the United Brethren
in Christ These men, preaching with great earnestness
and fervency, had revivals of religion in Pennsylvania and
Maryland, resulting in many accessions to membership of
the churches they served. Others of like mind assisted
them in the ministry, and they met occasionally in con-
ference concerning their work. The first of these informal
conferences was held in Baltimore, Md., in 1789. The
movement, though meeting with some opposition, gradu-
ally developed into a separate denomination. At a con-
ference held in Frederick County, Md., in 1800, attended
355
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356 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
by Otterbein, Boehm, Geeting, Newcomer, and nine others,
an organization was formed under the title " United Breth-
ren in Christ," and Otterbein and Boehm were elected
superintendents or bishops. The preachers increased and
new churches arose, and it soon became necessary to have
two annual conferences, the second one being formed in
the State of Ohio. In 1815 the denomination completed
its organization by the adoption at a general conference of
a discipline, rules of order, and a confession of faith. For
some years the work of the church was mainly among the
German element. It still has German conferences, but the
gfreat bulk of its members are English-speaking people.
In doctrine, practice, and usage the United Brethren are
Methodistic. They have classes and class leaders, stew-
ards, exhorters, local and itinerant preachers, presiding
elders, circuits, quarterly and annual conferences, and other
Methodist features. Their founders were in fraternal in-
tercourse with the fathers of American Methodism, and
in spirit and purpose the two bodies were not dissimilar.
The United Brethren, though not historically a Methodist
branch, affiliate with the Methodist churches, sending rep-
resentatives to the oecumenical Methodist conferences.
Their annual conferences are composed of itinerant and
local preachers, and lay delegates representing the churches.
The bishops preside in turn over these conferences, and
in conjunction with a committee of presiding elders and
preachers fix the appointments of the preachers for the
ensuing year. The pastoral term is three years, but in
particular cases it may be extended with the consent of
the conference. There is but one order among the or-
dained preachers, that of elder. Since 1889 it has been
lawful to license and ordain women. Bishops are elected
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THE UNITED BRETHREN. 357
by the general conference, not to life service, but for a
quadrennium. They are, however, eligible to reelection.
The general conference, which is composed of ministerial
and lay delegates, elected by the annual conferences, meets
once in every four years, and has full authority, under cer-
tain constitutional restrictions, to legislate for the whole
church, to hear and decide appeals, etc.
Their doctrines, which are Arminian, are expressed in
a confession of faith, consisting of thirteen brief articles,
which set forth the generally accepted view of the Father,
Son, and Holy Ghost, the Scriptures, justification and re-
generation, the Christian Sabbath, and the future state.
Concerning the sacraments, it holds that baptism and the
Lord's Supper should be observed by all Christians, but
the mode of baptism and the manner of celebrating the
Lord's Supper should be left to the judgment of individ-
uals. The baptism of children is also left to the choice of
parents. Sanctification is described as the " work of God's
gfrace through the word and the Spirit, by which those who
have been bom again are separated in their acts, words, and
thoughts from sin and are enabled to live unto God."
I. — ^THE UNITED BRETHREN IN CHRIST.
The confession, first adopted in 181 5, was revised in
1889 and slightly enlarged. The constitution was also
changed in the same year, resulting in a division, those
who held that the changes were not effected in a consti-
tutional way withdrawing from the general conference of
1889 ^nd holding a separate session. The latter hold to
the unchanged confession and constitution, and insist that
they are the legal body known as the United Brethren in
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358 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Christ Many cases to settle the validity of the action of
the general conference of 1889 have been before the courts,
and considerable church property is involved in the final
decision, which may not be reached for some years to
come. As both bodies claim the same title, it has been
deemed necessary to put after it, in parentheses, in one
case, for the sake of distinction, the words " old constitu-
tion." This designates the smaller body, which refuses to
recognize the constitutionality of the revision.
The general conference of 1885 created a commission to
revise the confession of faith and the constitution, express-
ing at the same time its opinion that two clauses in the
existing constitution, one forbidding the changing of or
doing away with the confession, and the other likewise for-
bidding any change in the constitution except upon " re-
quest of two thirds of the whole society," were " in their
language and apparent meaning so far-reaching as to ren-
der them extraordinary and impracticable as articles of
constitutional law." The commission submitted a revised
confession and constitution to the churches, as directed, for
their approval. A number of members of the general
conference of 1885 protested against the act creating the
commission as unconstitutional and revolutionary. When
the work of the commission was submitted for approval
they and those who agreed with them refused to vote on
it, insisting that the matter was not legally before the
church. Of those who voted, more than two thirds ap-
proved the revised documents, and they were accordingly
formally proclaimed by the general conference of 1889 as
the " fundamental belief and organic law of the church."
The vote of the conference was ill to 21. When the
chairman announced that the conference would proceed
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THE UNITED BRETHREN. 359
under the amended constitution, Bishop Milton Wright and
eleven delegates withdrew to meet elsewhere for legislation
under the old constitution. The majority claim that the
constitution of 1841 was never submitted to the members
of conferences or of the church, but was adopted by the
general conference only.
Two important changes were made in the constitution,
one admitting laymen to the general conference, and one
modifying the section prohibiting membership in secret
societies. The old constitution had this section : " There
shall be no connection with secret combinations." The
new constitution modifies this by providing that all secret
combinations which infringe upon the rights of others
and whose principles are injurious to the Christian char-
acter of their members are contrary to the Word of God,
and Christians should have no connection with them. The
new section also empowers the general conference to enact
" rules of discipline concerning such combinations."
There are in this country 45 annual conferences ; also,
one in Canada, and mission districts in Africa and Ger-
many. The denomination is not represented in any of the
New England States, nor in any of the States south of
Virginia, Tennessee, and Missouri. It is strongest in mem-
bers in the three States of Ohio (47,678), Indiana (35,824),
and Pennsylvania (33,951). Its total membership is 202,-
474, divided among 3731 organizations, with 2836 church
edifices, valued at $4,292,643. The average seating capac-
ity of the edifices is 288, and the average value $1513.
There are 780 halls, with accommodations for 93,035.
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36o REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
Oryaai. Church
s^
California 34
Colorado 18
Idaho 3
Illinois 320
Indiana 569
Iowa 213
Kansas 333
Kentucky 13
Maryland 57
Michigan 138
Minnesota 35
Missouri 105
Nebraska 147
New York 35
Ohio 745
Oregon 13
Pennsylvania 536
South Dakota 37
Tennessee 37
Virginia 71
Washington 18
West Virginia 359
Wisconsin 47
Total 3,731
•I
3,825
1,800
245 67,495
476 154,762
148 39,810
I28>i 33,200
II
55
93
23
45;i
75
693
8
467
7
18
66
13
175
45
3,400
14,300
27,405
4,975
14,150
16,775
5.975
205,755
3,100
147,036
1,175
5,600
11,500
3,400
54,170
8,850
Vdueof
Church
$38,400
32,800
260,075
551,636
211,323.
183,770
4,700
"3,789
133,250
23,375
47,825
84,950
34,650
1,198,870
11,100
1,086,135
4,150
13,985
65,940
22,000
140,645
39,275
588
585
100
15,429
35,824
10,401
13,768
567
4,736
5,201
8q3
4,361
5,673
47,678
493
33,951
493
1,141
5,306
494
12,242
1,687
2,837 816,458 $4,292,643 303,474
Summary by Conferences.
Allegheny 153 135 4i,375 $323,475 9,709
Arkansas Valley .. . 74 28 7,090 48,500 4,100
Auglaize 125 116^39,150 145,150 6,187
California 24 15 3,825 28,400 588
Central Illinois ... . 62 $2yi 15,590 67,900 3,052
Central Ohio 68 66 20,845 91,850 4,076
Colorado 18 8 1,800 32,800 585
Des Moines 09 6i)i 15,000 82,070 4,521
East German 83 jjyi 25,925 208,700 5,715
East Nebraska 67 49>i[ 11,075 66,200 3,807
East Ohio 127 124 32,900 204,570 8,531
East Pennsylvania.. 76 73 23,661 227,700 7,030
Elkhom and Dakota 39 12 1,800 3,700 743
Erie 117 83 21,025 100,435 3,552
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THE UNITED BRETHREN. 36 1
Summary by Conpbrxncbs.— CWiiiMiMdl
^ Orpud. Chun^ S^« ^g«f ^
«»WM» ptcitjr. Property. cuts.
Illinois 69 61 20,500 $72,950 2,784
Indiana 174 116 52,000 92,885 9,180
Iowa 114 Z^ 14,810 129,253 5,880
Kansas 97 36;^ 9,835 47,700 3,05 1
Kentucky 12 10 2,250 3>5oo 507
Lower Wabash 164 1 13 26,630 74*225 9,547
Maryland 39 38 99 150 62,889 3,236
Miami loi 94 30,700 303,950 10,957
Michigan 39 30 9,155 4S>90o 1,213
Minnesota 42 25 5}35o 25,425 910
Missouri 67 33>i 10,400 34.775 2,927*
Neosho 96 39j< 10,675 45.7oo 3,763
North Michigan ... 56 24 8,000 25,950 2,499
North Ohio 109 96>i[ 28,385 142,550 4,206
Northwest Kansas.. 54 ^1% 5)300 40,270 2,794
Ohio German 46 43^ 8,400 100,450 2,317
Oregon 14 7 1,800 7>9oo 284
Parkersburg 206 144 48, 1 1 5 1 16,095 10,377
Pennsylvania 148 137 45.625 3n,375 10,234
Rock River 29 2^% 3> 100 40,450 i, 104
Saint Joseph 144 130 41,947 206,315 10,112
Sandusky 122 115 37»775 252,560 7,424
Scioto 148 i3o;i 35*550 93,990 8,5 10
South Missouri 38 12 3750 i3>o5o 1,434
Tennessee 27 18 5,600 13.9S5 1,141
Upper Wabash ... . 83 75 21,875 83,175 6,65^
Virginia 127 99 i8.355 9M9o 7,340
Walla Walla 19 14 3,700 25,200 803
West Nebraska 60 vjyi 4,550 16,150 1,476
White River 108 96 23,265 102,81 1 5,921
Wisconsin 47 45 8,850 39f275 1,687
Total 3,731 2,837 816,458 $4,292,643 202,474
2. — ^THE UNITED BRETHREN IN CHRIST (OLD CON-
STITUTION).
This body consists of those who hold that the act of the
general conference of 1885, creating a commission to revise
the confession of faith and constitution, was unconstitu-
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362 RELIGIOUS FOUCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
tional, and that all proceedings under it were null and void.
Bishop Milton Wright and eleven delegates withdrew from
the general conference of 1889 because of the announce-
ment that its proceedings would conform to the revised
constitution. They immediately convened in conference
and proceeded to legislate and elect bishops and general
church officers under the old constitution. The division,
begun in this way, was soon widely extended, involving
many of the conferences and placing the ownership and
occupancy of much church property in dispute. The
" Liberals," as the majority are called, continued in pos-
session of the general church property and offices, and also
of most of the churches and parsonages. The "Radi-
cals," those who adhere to the old confession and consti-
tution, have churches, ministers, and members in many of
the conferences, the titles of which they have preserved.
There are therefore two sets of conferences bearing the
same names and covering the same territory. Many suits
have been entered in the courts to test the control of the
property involved. A final decision has not yet been
reached. Those who adhere to the unamended constitu-
tion insist that the general conference of 1885 had no con-
stitutional power to provide for the revision of the consti-
tution and confession; that the general conference of 1889
had no right to act under the revised constitution, and that
the existing constitution was and still is the organic law of
the church. They maintain an exclusive attitude toward
all secret societies, according to the provision of the old
constitution forbidding connection with any of them.
When the statistics for the eleventh census were ob-
tained, the line of division had not in all cases become dis-
tinct, and it was difficult to get returns from some of the
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THE UNITED BRETHREN. 363
districts. A number of presiding elders reported that
much of the church property in their respective districts
was in dispute, being claimed by both parties. In tabu-
lating from the schedules returned by the presiding elders
of each branch, care was taken not to count the same edi-
fices and property twice. It is possible, however, that in
some cases duplication has not been prevented.
The total number of members is 22,807, ^uid there are
795 organizations. The average seating capacity of the
church edifices is 302, and their average value $1116.
There are 209 halls, with accommodations for 23,285.
Summary by States.
pscily. Property.
California 9 6 1,595 $8,600 118
Illinois 39 33 7,895 33,400 1,193
Indiana 160 143 51,420 169,550 6,873
Iowa 23 20 6,900 19,200 272
Kansas 33 11 3y45o 10,200 588
Michigan 164 90 25,325 1 199550 5,602
Nebraska 29 8 3,730 10,600 358
Ohio 250 235 60,460 237,940 5,822
Oregon 49 20 5,505 24,700 1,203
South Dakota 6 4 800 2,300 109
Washin^on 29 8 1,600 8,900 606
Wisconsin 4 63
Total 795 578 174,680 $644,940 22,807
Summary by Conferences.
CONPBKBNCBS.
Arkansas Valley
Auglaize
California
Central Illinois .
East Des Moines
East Nebraska . .
12
7
1,850
$6,400
126
121
40,450
135,990
9
lyi
1,595
8,600
19
16
3,905
17,700
19
16
5,950
15,700
7
2,800
232
2,800
118
369
142
205
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364 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
SuMMA&Y BY Conferences.— CVw/fifK^
Oiniiio Chndi
Elkhom and Dakota 15 6
Indiana 10 2
Iowa 4 4
Kansas 15 \}i
Michigan 58 35
Minnesota 2 i
North Michigan ... 82 34
North Ohio 84 8o>^
Oregon 38 \^}^
Rock River 20 17
Sandusky ^ \(>%
Scioto 81 Z^%
Walla Walla 40 10
West Kansas 6
West Nebraska 11 1%
White River 99 91^
Wisconsin 4
Sotiiis
Vahieof
Com-
qT^
Chuidi
I-city.
Ptopeity.
cants.
930
$3»4oo
156
800
2,000
180
950
1,600
3,500
3,800
130
303
9,900
56,200
2,19a
200
400
^l
11,350
40,250
2.3««
16,465
84,850
3.356
5,105
21,600
1,029
3,990
15,700
824
3,760
15,200
1^5
23,775
73iioo
i,6«5
2,000
12,000
780
3,400
6,300
8
36,705
119,450
'■%
Total 795 578 174,680 $644,940 22,807
The totals for the two bodies are as follows : organiza-
tions, 4526; edifices, 3415; seating capacity, 991,138;
value of church property, $4,937,583; communicants^
235,281.
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CHAPTER XLI.
THE UNITARIANS.
Unitarianism, as its name indicates, is distinguished
from other systems of Christian belief chiefly by its rejec-
tion of the doctrine of the Trinity and the deity of Jesus
Christ. It denies that three persons — ^the Father, the Son,
and the Holy Spirit — are united in one God, and holds
that God is one, that he is ««/-, not /fV-personal. This
view is not modem. Arius, a presbyter of Alexandria in
the fourth century, held that Christ, though the greatest of
created beings, was not equal in nature and dignity to God.
Unitarian organizations were formed in Poland and Hun-
gary as early as the middle of the sixteenth century, and in
the United States and England in the first quarter of the
present century. Kingfs Chapel, Boston, a Protestant Epis-
copal congregation, adopted in 1785 a liturgy so revised
as to exclude all recognition of the Trinity, and ordained
in 1787, as its pastor, on the refusal of the bishop of the
diocese to do so, James Freeman, who was Unitarian in
his views. Arian ideas began to influence ministers and
laymen in the Congregational churches in New England
at the beginning of the present century. In 1805 a Uni-
tarian, Dr. Henry Ware, was elected to the divinity chair
in Harvard University, and in 18 19 a separate divinity
school was organized in connection with the university
with a Unitarian faculty.
365
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366 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Those holding Arian views became generally known as
Unitarians in 1815, which is usually given as the beginning
of the Unitarian denomination in America. In 18 19 a
Unitarian congregation was formed in Baltimore. William
EUery Channing preached the installation sermon, in which
he clearly defined the differences between Orthodox and
Unitarian doctrines. Many Congregational churches in
eastern Massachusetts, including the oldest, that of Plym-
outh, the church founded by the Pilgrims in 1620, became
Unitarian without changing their covenants or names. In
the course of the controversy, 120 Congregational churches
in New England, founded before the War of the Revolu-
tion, went over to the Unitarians. In 1830 there were, in
all, 193 churches of the Unitarian faith; in 1865, 340.
The present number is 421.
The Unitarians acknowledge no binding creed. They
contend for the fullest liberty in belief, and exclude no
one from their fellowship for difference in doctrinal views.
Unitarianism is declared to be "not a fixed dogmatic
statement, but a movement of ever-enlarging faith," wel-
coming " inquiry, progress, and diversity of individual
thought in the unity of spiritual thought." In the de-
nomination are included those who stand upon a simple
basis of Theism, and are represented in the Western Uni-
tarian Conference, for example, and those who accept the
Messiahship of Jesus Christ. In general terms they believe
in God as the All-in- All, " in eternal life as the great hope,
in the inspiration of all truth, in man's great possibilities,
and in the divineness of sanctified humanity."
The Unitarian churches are Congregational in polity, each
congregation being independent in the management of its
own affairs. There are societies for the conduct of mis-
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THE UNITARIANS. 367
sionary work, such as the American Unitarian Association,
oi^anized in 1825, the Western Unitarian Conference,
which attends to the general interests of the societies rep-
resented in it, and the Western Unitarian Association, whose
object is to " diifuse the knowledge and promote the inter-
ests of pure Christianity." There are also conferences, na-
tional and state and local The national conference, which
is biennial, declares in its constitution its " allegiance to the
gospel of Jesus Christ " and its " desire to secure the largest
unity of spirit and the widest practical cooperation " in the
cause of Christian faith and work. It confines itself to
recommending to existing Unitarian organizations ''such
undertaking and methods as it judges to be in the heart of
the Unitarian denomination." It is composed of delegates
from the churches and representatives of certain Unitarian
organizations. The conference provides for a committee
of fellowship, for the consideration of applications of per-
sons not graduates of Unitarian schools to enter the Uni-
tarian ministry.
The 421 organizations report 424 edifices, valued at
$10,335,100, and with an aggregate seating capacity of
165,090. Of the 67,749 communicants, or, more properly,
members, as the Unitarian custom is to admit any one to
the communion, a little more than half are in Massachusetts.
New York has the second largest number, 4470 ; California
is third, with 3819 ; and New Hampshire fourth, with 3252.
The denomination has organizations in thirty-two States
and the District of Columbia. In the Southern States it
has scarcely half a dozen churches.
The average value of its church edifices is very high,
reaching $24,725; their average seating capacity, 389.
There are 55 halls, with accommodations for 10,370.
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368 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Summary by States.
California i6
Colorado 4
Connecticut 2
Delaware i
District of Columbia i
Georgia i
Illinois 16
Indiana 3
Iowa 10
Kansas 5
Kentucky i
Louisiana i
Maine 22
Maryland 2
Massachusetts 189
Michigan 12
Minnesota 12
Missouri 6
Nebraska 3
New Hampshire ... 26
New Jersey 5
New York 18
North Dakota i
Ohio 5
Oregon 5
Pennsylvania 7
Rhode Island 6
South Carolina i
South Dakou 2
Tennessee i
Vermont 9
Washington 12
Wisconsin 16
Total 431
rwM«w*ii
SeadBff
Value of
Com.
mSS.
Ca.
Chinch
mnoi-
unacM.
padty.
Propctty.
cants
8
5,100
$366,040
3,819
2
lyZOO
157,500
644
2
975
38,000
179
250
14,000
60
850
80,000
600
300
10,000
75
15
5,650
406,000
1,932
1,100
8,500
320
2,500
83,100
1,238
525
20,500
278
650
70,000
100
400
40,000
no
2$
7,800
216,700
2,421
1,450
107,000
603
217
86,346
5,278,370
34,610
13
4,850
168,500
1,904
2,750
126,600
1,349
2,850
230,800
1,135
800
44,000
190
25
9,386
357,200
3,252
700
23,500
363
22
9»423
1,117,500
4,470
....
« 90
55
1,350
80,000
Si
2,050
139,500
2,585
276,200
1,171
3,650
393.500
1.595
400
30,000
150
400
10,000
105
400
16,000
60
2,480
112,500
IS.
1,570
75,000
14
4,250
238,500
'.394
424 165,090 $10,335, 100 67,749
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CHAPTER XLII.
THE UNIVERSALISTS.
The first regular preacher in America of the distinctive
doctrines of Universalism was Rev. John Murray, a dis-
ciple of James Relly, who had gathered a congregation of
Universalists in London. The names of a number of min-
isters of different denominations are included in the list
of those who held or published Universalist views before
Murray arrived from England in 1770. Among these was
Dr. George de Benneville, of Pennsylvania, Mr. Murray
preached at various places, settling at Gloucester, Mass.,
in 1774, and at Boston in 1793. By him and a few others
a number of Universalist churches were established. At
the close of the eighteenth century there were about a
score of Universalist ministers.
The Rev. Hosea Ballou, whose name is honored as the
father of Universalism in its present form, became promi-
nent in the movement at the beginning of the present cent-
ury. His views differed radically from those of Mr. Murray.
In a " Treatise on Atonement," published in 1 795, he denied
the doctrine of the vicarious sacrifice, and insisted that
punishment for the sins of mortality is confined to this life.
If there were any punishment in the future life it would
be, he contended, for sins committed in that life. Some
years later he expressed the belief that there is no sin
beyond the grave and consequently no punishment. Mr.
369
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370 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
Murray had held that Christ himself bore the punishment
due the sins of mankind, and therefore there would be no
further punishment. Of the early Universalists, Murray
had been a Methodist, Winchester and Ballou Baptists.
There being quite a number of Universalists who held,
contrary to the views of Mr. Ballou, to a limited future
punishment, a division occurred in 1830, and an association
was organized in the interests of the doctrine of restoration.
This association existed for about eleven years and then
became extinct; some of its preachers returning to the
Universalist denomination, others becoming Unitarians.
The Restorationists held that there would be a future
retribution, but that God would, in his own time, " restore •
the whole family of mankind to holiness and happiness."
The symbol of the Universalist faith is the Winchester
*' Profession of Belief," which was adopted in 1803 by the
New England Convention, held in Winchester, N. H. It
is as follows :
"Article i. We believe that the Hdy Scriptures of
the Old and New Testaments contain a revelation of the
character of God, and of the duty, interest, and final desti-
nation of mankind.
"Article 2. We believe that there is one God, whose
nature is love, revealed in one Lord Jesus Christ, by one
Holy Spirit of Grace, who will finally restore the whole
family of mankind to holiness and happiness.
"Article 3. We believe that holiness and true happi-
ness are inseparably connected, and that believers ought
to be careful to maintain order and practice good works ;
for these things are good and profitable unto men."
This profession of belief has remained unaltered since
it was formulated. It is regarded as a suiBdent general
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THE UNIVERSAUSTS. 371
declaration of the fundamental doctrine of Universalists for
the purpose of fellowship. A more particular knowledge
of their general belief may be gathered from the utterances
of leading Universalist writers.
Universalists believe that God is not only almighty, all-
wise, and omniscient, but that he is perfectly holy. As a
holy God he is hostile to sin. He forbade it at the first,
has never consented to it, and can never be reconciled
to it. His power, wisdom, goodness, and holiness are all
pledges that there " shall be an end of it in the moral uni-
verse," and that " universal righteousness " shall be estab-
lished. Sin is to be ended through the conversion and
salvation of all sinners, who are to come ultimately into
holiness and perfection. This is to be done by Jesus Christ,
whose function it is to bring man into harmony with God.
In Christ God has set forth in a single human life his great
scheme of reconciliation. There was perfect harmony be-
tween this life and God ; and Christ, the derived from the
underived, most intimately shared the nature of God and
represents him to man in complete fullness. There is
no shadow of variance between Christ and God. Christ's
work in the world is to bring men to light and strengthen
the will in resolution against sin. He helps to overcome
and destroy sin in the individual soul. Salvation is not
from the demands of justice, nor from punishment, endless
or otherwise. The demands of justice must be met, the
consequences of sin cannot be avoided. It is the bondage
of present sin from which salvation is necessary. Salvation
is not exemption from the consequences of sin, but redemp-
tion from the disposition to sin; also from imperfection.
Begrinning with repentance and receiving God's forgiveness
for past sins, the soul must put off the old man with all
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372 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
his sins and put on the new man created in Grod's likeness.
Punishment is a necessary penalty for violated law. Divine
punishment is " not the .manifestation of hatred but the
sign and instrument of love.*' The punishment of sin is its
inevitable consequences— " the wounds, the damage, the
shame which sin impresses " upon the individual conscious-
ness. It is wholly within the soul. The purpose of pun-
ishment is to deter from sin and to recover from sin. It
is therefore beneficent, whence it follows that it cannot
be endless, for endless punishment would be vindictive and
not beneficent. The soul is immortal. It survives death
and enters upon the disembodied state in the same con-
dition in which it quits the embodied. If it has been
" dwarfed " in the present life " by neglect,*' or *' weak-
ened" by abuse, or "corrupted" by sin, then dwarfed,
weakened, corrupt, it must enter the next life. Discipli-
nary processes will be continued in that life, and the soul
that goes into it unrepentant must suffer the " thraldom or
retribution " until the " will consents to the divine order."
Even the penitent will be subject to " such discipline and
chastening experiences as contribute to moral progress."
These are not to be taken as authoritative expressions
of denominational belief. The Winchester Profession is
the only acknowledged symbol. They simply represent
the current teaching of the Universalist ministry. Prob-
ably some Universalists would differ from them in some
respects.
The Universalist system of government is a modified
Presbyterianism. The parish manages its own financial
and general interests, and calls or dismisses a pastor ; but
it ** acknowledges allegiance both to the State and general
conventions, and is bound to observe the laws they enact."
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THE UNIVERSAUSTS. 373
No State conventions can be formed " without a constitu-
ency of at least four parishes." Such conventions exercise
authority in their own territory under rules and limitations
prescribed by the general convention. They are composed
of all Universalist ministers in fellowship, and of lay dele-
gates from the parishes. They meet every year.
The general convention, which is held in October bien-
nially, consists of clerical and lay delegates from each State
convention, in the proportion of one of the former to two
of the latter. Every convention is entitled to send at least
one clerical and two lay delegates. If it has fifty parishes
and clergymen it can send twice as many delegates, with
an additional three for every additional twenty- five parishes
and clergymen. The general convention " exercises eccle-
siastical authority throughout the United States and Can-
ada. It is the court of final appeal in cases of dispute
between State conventions, and in all cases of discipline
not provided for and settled by subordinate bodies," and
has original jurisdiction in States and Territories where
subordinate conventions have not been organized. The
general convention is an incorporated body and controls
various denominational funds. Ministers are ordained by
councils, consisting of ten ordained ministers and lay dele-
gates from ten parishes, called by the parish desiring the
ordination, with the consent of the convention (State) com-
mittee on fellowship, ordination, and discipline. There are
also licentiates, both of the clerical and lay order.
Among the usages of the church is the observance of
the second Sunday in June as " Children's Sunday." The
churches are decorated with flowers and children are bap-
tized. Christmas and Easter are generally observed, and
a Sunday in October is set apart for services in memory of
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374 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
members who have died during the year. The sacraments
observed are baptism and the Lord's Supper. The mode
of baptism is left to the choice of the applicant.
There are forty State conventions, besides those of
Canada and Scotland, the oldest of which, that of New
York, was organized in 1825. New York leads in the
number of members, reporting 8526; Massachusetts comes
second, with 7142; Ohio third, with 4961; and Maine
fourth, with 3750. The total of members is 49,194, and
the aggregate value of church property $8,054,333. The
average value of the church edifices is $97SO, and the
average seating capacity 294.
SUMBfARY BY STATES.
STATU. Orauu- Church n?'
paotj.
Alabama 10 6 625
Arkansas i
California 9 5 i>95o
Colorado i
Connecticut 18 18 6,325
District of Columtna i i 500
Florida 3 i 150
Georgia 15 12 2,250
Idaho I I 200
Illinois 54 49>i 13,400
Indiana 50 37 8,850
Iowa 22 23 6,550
Kansas 14 8 1,875
Kentucky 23 12 3,200
Maine 86 83 26,405
Maryland i i 700
Massachusetts 121 119K 40,550
Michigan 27 26 6,600
Minnesota 13 10 3,500
Mississippi 3 2 200
Missouri 16 4 1,600
Nebraska 5 5 775
New Hampshire ... 33 34 9,600
Value of
Con.
Chuidi
muni.
Propatf.
cants.
$3»5oo
1,382
96,000
500
15
367,000
2,129
47,000
128
2,000
45
3,140
533
3,000
25
523,850
138,900
3,424
1,950
829
118,300
20,200
571
16,525
434
542,900
'%
30,000
2,110,193
7,142
221,800
1,549
192,900
1,093
120
4,800
711
38,800
161
203,025
1,204
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THE UNIVERSAUSTS.
375
Summary by States. — CanHnued.
Ot^^ Churoh ^c?«
New Jersey 6 6
New York i68 147
North Carolina .... 3 3
Ohio 91 91
Oregon 5 3
Pennsylvania 42 30
Rhode Island 10 10
South Carolina 2 i
Tennessee i i
Texas 18 2
Vermont 65 57
Virginia i i
West Virginia 2 i
Wisconsin 15 15
Total 956 832
1,720
44,600
500
24,950
9,850
4,035
100
100
450
18,010
300
100
3,545
Value of
Church
$112,300
1,798,250
1,200
344,800
9,500
417,500
301,500
1,200
750
5,800
285,000
5,000
1,200
85,200
Com.
541
8,526
4,961
84
2,209
998
lOI
20
514
*'^
56
544
344*615 $8,o$4,333 49.194
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CHAPTER XLIII.
INDEPENDENT CONGREGATIONS.
These are congregations having no connection with any
of the denominations. Some are akin to Presbyterian,
others to Methodist and other bodies. Some are organ-
ized on a union basis and receive part of their support
from members of several denominations. There are 54
hallsy with accommodations for 10,445.
Summary by States.
-_>»»« Oiniu* Clmrcli
"^^■■' mvmt. Edifioet.
Alabama i
Alaska i
California 11 2
Connecticut 4 3
District of Columbia 5 3
Georgia i i
Illinois 8 7
Indiana 16 11
Iowa I I
Kansas 9 5
Maine 3 3
Maryland 2 2
Massachusetts 18 12
Michigan 2 2
Minnesota i i
Missouri 3 I
New Hampshire ... 3 i
New Jersey 8 6
New York 26 23
Ohio 5 6
Pennsylvania 17 15
Rhode Island 6 4
South Carolina i i
Vermont 4 2
Total 156 112
376
Cap
packy.
550
425
1,100
150
3»97o
3,200
200
1,090
850
2,200
3iio5
375
100
200
200
2,150
10,255
2,025
4,650
1,750
200
600
Value of
Ghoicli
COOr
$70,575
3,600
17,100
140,000
8,450
1,000
7,550
17,500
40,000
121,350
6,000
700
1,500
1,500
52,300
722,400
22,800
140,900
89,200
8,000
13,575
150
766
717
386
25
1,640
918
75
271
170
500
684
170
156
150
552
4,232
298
948
768
'166
39,345 $1,486,000 14,126
Digitized by
Google
GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
1. Summary by States of all denominations.
2. Summary by denominations.
3. Summary by denominational families.
4. Summary of denominations according to number of
communicants.
5. Summary of denominational families according to
number of communicants.
6. Summary of denominations classified according to
polity.
7. Summary of colored organizations.
8. Summary of churches in cities.
377
Digitized by LjOOQIC
378 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I.— (a) SUMMARY BY States
aTATBi. Organiwtions. Edifices.
Alabama 6,383 6,013
Alaska 26 34
Arizona 131 70
Arkansas 4,874 3,791
California 1,996 1,505
Colorado 647 463
Connecticut i, 149 1,175
Delaware 382 401
District of Columbia 217 205
Florida 1,971 1,793
Georgia 6,899 /i^^^
Idaho 247 143
Illinois 8,296 7,352
Indiana 6,480 5,944
Indian Territory 806 429
Jo'^a 5>539 4,539
Kansas 4i927 2,859
Kentucky 5,555 4,768
Louisiana 2>7oi • 2,520
Maine 1,610 1,346
Maryland 2,328 2>3^
Massachusetts 2,547 2,458
Michigan 4»798 39761
Minnesota 3,4^ 2,619
Mississippi 59I94 5t009
Missouri 8,064 6,121
Montana 273 164
Nebraska 2,797 1,822
Nevada 04 41
New Hampshire 783 774
New Jersey 2,085 2,204
New Mexico 463 381
New York 8,237 7,942
North Carolina 6,824 6,512
North DakoU 868 335
Ohio 9,384 8,896
Oklahoma 123 41
Oregon 969 592
Pennsylvania 10,175 9,624
Rhode Island 402 # 386
South Carolina 3,815 3,967
South Dakota 1,589 774
Tennessee 6,351 5,794
(ft) Forsununary by States (or 1906 we p^ (^) This QoUmn tbowt the perccatage
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
379
OF ALL Denominations.
Seating
VdoeofChmcli
Communi-
Par cent of
Capacity.
Property.
cants.
Population (3).
1,702,527
$6,768,477
559,171
36.96
4,800
203,650
14,852
19,230
270,816
26,972
45 24
1,041,040
3,266,663
296,208
280,619
26.26
422,609
11,961,914
23 23
120,862
4,743,317
86,837
21.07
443,979
111,172
16,985,036
2,708,825
48^679
41 45
28.89
114,420
6,313,625
94,203
40.89
391,132
2,424,423
141,734
36.21
2,108,566
8,228,060
679,051
36.96
29,527
281,310
24,036
28.48
2,260,619
39,715,245
18,671,131
31-43
1,890,300
31.65
79,583
182,266
29,275
1,203,185
16,056,786
556,817
29.12
708,134
7,452,269
336,729
23.58
1,504,736
12,112,320
606,397
32.63
617,245
5,032,194
399,991
35 76
408,767
6,198,400
160,271
24.24
718,459
15,445,946
379,418
36.40
1,102,772
46,835,014
942,751
42.11
1,097,069
18,682,971
569,504
27.20
691,631
12,940,152
532,590
40.91
1,332,442
4,392,473
430,746
33 40
1,859,589
19,663,737
735,839
27 47
33,942
885,950
32,478
24.57
409,462
6,443,689
194,466
18.36
9,890
208,225
5,877
12.84
250,035
4,457,225
102,941
27 34
803,017
29,490,414
508,351
il:Sl
i22'9^5
531,925
105,749
2,868,490
140,123,008
2,171,822
36.21
2,192,835
7,077,440
685,194
42 35
69,590
780,775
59,496
32.56
2,827,113
42,159,762
1,216,469
33 13
7 58
8,605
61,575
4,901
142,843
2,829,150
70,524
22.48
3,592,019
85,917,370
1,726,640
32.84
166,384
7,583, "o
148,008
42.84
1,199,908
5,636,236
508,485
44.17
149,728
1,761,277
85,490
26.00
1,812,942
9,890,443
552,658
31.26
of population represented by the number of communicants in each Sute.
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38o RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I.--SUMMA&Y BY States
fTAns. OrsanintioDa. Edifices.
Texas 8,766 5,638
Utah 427 280
Vermont 904 803
Virginia 4,998 4,894
Washington 892 $32
West Virginia 3,045 2,216
Wisconsin 3>726 3^290
Wyoming 141 43
Total 165,297 142,639
TABLE IL^SUMMARY
DBNOMXNATIONS.
Adventists :
1. Evangelical 34 30
2. Advent Christians 883 580
3. Seventh-Day 284 995
4. Church of God 19 29
5. Life and Advent Union 50 28
6. Churchte of God in Jesus Christ . 94 95
Total Adventists 1,364 1,757
Baptists:
1. Regular (North) 6,685 7>907
2. Regular (South) 8,957 16,238
3. Regular (Colored) 5,468 12,533
4. Six-Principle 14 18
5. Seventh-Day •• 115 106
6. Freewill 1,493 hS^
7. Original Freewill 118 167
8. General 332 399
9. Separate 19 24
10. United 25 204
11. Baptist Church of Christ 80 152
12. Primitive 2,040 3,222
13. OldTwo-Seed-in-the-SpuitPredes-
tinarian 300 473
Total Baptists 25,646 43^029
{a) This column shows the peicenuge ofpopulstioo
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
381
OF ALL Denominations. — Cmtintud.
Satbc
Value of Chufdi
CoimnuBi"
Per cent of
Ci«ci^.
Prapcny.
cants.
Popuotion (a).
1,567.745
$8,682,337
677,151
30.30
89.695
i.493.79>
128,115
61.62
337,000
4,643,800
106,315
31 -qs
M90,675
126,109
601,238
10,473.943
2,408,625
569,235
58,798
S:g
3.723.383
192,477
25.23
32.98
846,408
14.525,841
556,483
8,38s
368,62s
11,705
19.28
43,596,378 $679,694,439 20,618,307
32.92
BY Denominations.
Churdi
Seating
Value of Choic!i
Communi-
Edifico.
Capacity.
Property.
cants.
23
294
&
$61,400
465,605
25,816
28,991
418
94,627
645,075
I
200
1,400
647
8
2,250
16,790
1,018
30
7,530
46,075
2,872
774
190,748
$1,236,345
60,491
7,070
2,180,773
$49,530,504
800,450
13,502
4,349,407
18,196,637
1,280,066
11,987
3,440,970
91038,549
1,348,989
14
3,600
19,500
937
78
21,467
265,260
'*^
1,225
349,309
3,115,642
125
41,400
57,005
11,864
209
71,850
201,140
21,362
19
5,650
9,200
1,599
179
60,220
80,150
13,209
135
40,885
56,755
8,254
2,849
899,273
1,649,851
121,347
397
134,730
",599,534
172,230
12,851
37,789
$82,392,423
3,717,969
represented by the number of 5:f>mnninicaptT is
I each State.
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liZ MEUCJOUS FORCES OF TB£ CJflTED STATES.
TABLE n.-
BKKTBMMM (BJTCR):
l« Brethren in Cbfiit iJt 7C
X Old Order or Yorker 7 S
3. United Zkm'f Chfldren ao 25
Total River Breduen 155 in
BRETHREir (Pltmoitth):
Brethren (L) 109
Brethren (IL) »
Brethren (III.) 9S
Brethren (IV.) 31
ToUl Ptjrmonth Bre&uen 314
Catholics:
I. Roman Cath<^ 9»>57 10,231
3. Greek Catholic (Uniates) 9 14
3. Russian Orthodox 13 12
4. Greek Orthodox i i
5. Armenian 7 6
6. Old Catholic i 4
7. Reformed Catholic 8 8
Total 9»i96 10,276
Catholic Apostolic 95 10
Chinese Temples 47
Christadelphians 63
Christians:
1. Christian
2. Christian Church South .' 85 143
Total Christians i,435 i^AH
I. Christians JChristian Connection) i^SSo i^^Si
Christian Missionary Association 10 13
Christian Scientists 26 221
Christian Union 183 294
Church of God (Winebrennerian) 522 479
Church Triumphant (Schweinfurth) ... 12
Church of the New Jerusalem 119 154
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
383
D2NOMINATIONS.— CVw/l'lflMVf.
dnodi
Edificei.
Seatinc
Captdty.
45
19,00$
as
3,100
70
29,105
VdqcofChiBdi
Plopoily.
$73»o5o
8,300
$«i,35o
3,688
314
3>427
$1,365
300
$1,465
3,389
3,419
1,335
718
6,661
8,776
13
33
I
3
8,816
3,365,754
5,338
3,150
75
700
3*374,907
$118,069,746
63,3a>
330,000
5,000
13,320
6,331,417
10,850
13,504
100
1,000
$"8,371,366 6,357,871
3
47
4
750
••f ••
950
$66,050
63,000
3,700
i>394
1,377
963
135
1,098
301,693
46,005,
347^697
$1,637,303
138,000
$1,775,303
90,718
13*004
103,733
II
7
184
338
88
3,300
1,500
68,000
"5,530
30,810
$3»900
40,666
234,450
643,185
15,000
1,386,455
0^5*
8,724
i8,3i4
22,511
384
7,095
Digitized by
Google
Total Friends.
Friends of the Temple ,
German Evangelical Protestant
German Evangelical Synod. ...
Jews:
1. Jewish Congregations (Orthodox).
2. Jewish Congregations (Reformed)
15
384 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE II.-- Summary bt
DBHOMmATIONS. MiaistelB. ^^
Communistic Societies (a) :
1. Shakers
2. Amana
3. Harmony
4. Separatists
5. New Icaria
0. Altruists
7. Adonai Shomo
8. Church Triumphant (Koreshan Ecdesia) . .
Total Communistic Societies 1. .. 32
Congregationalists 5,058 4,868
Disciples of Christ 3,773 7,246
DUNKARDS :
1. Dunkards or German Baptists (Conserv.) . . 1,622 720
2. Dunkards or German Baptists (Old Order) . 237 135
3. Dunkards or German Baptists (Progressive). 224 128
4. Seventh-Day Baptists (German) 5 6
Total Dunkards 2,088 989
Evangelical Association 1,235 2,310
Friends:
1. Friends (Orthodox) 1,113
2. Friends (Hicksite)
3. Friends fWilburite)
4. Friends (Primitive)
"3
'11
II
794
201
5»
9
<rn
1,056
4
6^
4
870
"S
75
316
317
Total Jews 200 533
<a) The Bnwdcriiocf McnDOoitw abo obtenre a communal life. Hiey
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
385
DSNOMINATIONS.— CMf/MMMdl
dmidi
Edifico.
SoitinE
ValMofOmdi
Flapertjr.
Conmuai
cantt.
16
32
5,650
2,800
$36,800
15,000
1,728
1,600
500
500
• • • •
10,000
3,000
250
200
21
••
• • • «
0,000
25
20
••
—
36,000
205
40
9,450
$io6,Soo
4,049
4,736
5,334
1,553,080
1,609,452
$43,335,437
12,206,038
512,771
641,051
3
353,586
25,750
32.740
1,960
$1,121,541
80,770
145,770
14,550
61,101
194
1,016
414,036
$1,362,631
73,795
1,899
479,335 .
$4,785,680
133,313
725
213
52
5
72I568
13,169
1,050
$3,795,784
1,661,850
67,000
16,700
80,655
21,993
4,329
332
995
302,318
$4,541,334
107,208
5
1,150
35.175
245,781
$15,300
1,187,450
4,614,490
340
36,156
187,432
122
179
46,837
92,397
$2,802,050
6,952,225
57,597
72,899
301
139,234
$9,754,275
130,496
ported in coBiiection with the other Menaonite bnnchet.
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386 REUGIOUS FORCES Oi> THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IL— Summary by
Oiftni-
I:
Latter-Day Saints:
1. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 543 425
2. Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Lat-
ter-Day Saints 1,500 431
Total Latter-Day Saints 2,043 856
Lutherans:
General Bodies,
1. General Synod 966 1,424
2. United Synod in the South 201 414
3. General Council 1,153 2,044
4. Synodical Conference 1,282 1,934
Independent Synods,
Joint Synod of Ohio, etc. 297 421
Buffalo 20 27
7. Hauge's 58 175
8. Norwegian in North America 194 489
9. Michigan 37 65
10. Danish in America zo8 131
1 1. German Augsburg 49 23
12. Danish Church Association 40 50
13. Icelandic Synod i 13
14. Immanuel 21 21
15. Suomai Synod 8 11
16. United Norwegian of America 109 1,122
Independent Congregations 47 231
Total Lutherans 4,591 8,595
Mennonites:
1. Mennonite 336 246
2. Bruederhoef (a) o 5
3. Amish 228 97
4. Old Amish 71 22
5. Apostolic 2 2
6. Reformed 43 34
7. General Conference 95 45
8. Church of God in Christ 18 18
9. Old (Wisler) 17 15
<«) The Biuedeilioef MennonitM dbsenre a commimi
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
387
Denominations. — ConHnued.
Cfamch
Scadng
Value of Choich
Comaumi.
F^ii;^—
Ciq-dty.
Pnpert]r*
CMtt.
366
92,102
$825,506
I44,35»
133
30,790
226,285
21,773
388
122,892
$1,051,791
166,125
1,323
471,819
$8,919,170
164,640
379
;te
1,114,065
37,457
1,554
11,119,286
324,846
i,S3>
443.i«5
7,804,313
357,153
443
149,338
$1,639,087
84,410
69,505
35
5,793
4,242
100
30,500
24'295
14,730
275
78,988
806,825
55,452
11,482
53
14,613
164,770
75
.14,760
129,700
10,181
23
7,560
111,060
7,010
33
5,700
44,775
3,493
4
1,300
7,200
1,991
5,580
1,385
■i
5,300
„i,9i5
94,200
12,898
;§
185,243
1,544,455
119,972
63,344
1,249,745
41,953
6,701
2,ao5,^5
$3S»o6o,354
1,231,072
198
70,605
$317,045
17,078
5
600
4,500
352
61
15,430
76,450
10,101
I
300
1,500
2,038
I
335
J,200
209
29
7,465
52,650
. 1,655
43
13,880
"9,350
1,600
5,670
3
400
610
12
4,120
8,015
fife and oonstitDM pioperiy « communistic aodetsr.
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388 REUGIOUS FORCES OP THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IL— SuiacART bt
DBNOMniATIONS.
10. Bundes Conference , 37 12
11. Defenseless 18 9
12. Brethren in Christ 31 45
Total Mennonites SK>5 55o
Mkthodists :
1. Methodist Episcopal i5>423 25,861
2. Union American Methodist Episcopal 32 42
3. African Methodist Episcopal 39321 2,481
4. African Union Methodist Protestant 40 40
5. African Methodist Episcopal Zion 1,565 1,704
6. Methodist Protestant 1,441 2,529
7. Wesleyan Methodist 600 565
8. Methodbt Episcopal, South 4,801 15,017
9. Congregational Methodbt 150 214
10. Congregational Methodist (Colored) 5 9
11. New Congregational Methodist 20 24
12. Zion Union Apostolic 30 32
13. Colored Methodist Episcopal 1,800 1,759
14. Primitive Methodist 60 84
15. Free Methodist 657 1,102
16. Independent Methodist 8 15
17. Evangelist Missionary 47 11
Total Methodists 3O1O00 51^89
Moravians 114 • 94
Presbyterians:
1. Presbyterian in the United States of Amer-
ica(Northem) 5,934 6,717
2. Cumberland Presbyterian I9861 2,791
3. Cumberland Presbyterian (Colored) 393 ^^
4. Welsh Calvinistic 100 187
5. United Presbyterian 73' 866
6. Presbyterian in the United States (Southern) 1,129 2,391
7. Associate Church of North America 12 31
8. Associate Reformed Synod of the South ... 133 "6
9. Reformed Presbyterian in the United States
(Synod) 124 115
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
389
Dknominahons. — Cmtmued,
Edifico.
Seating
Capacity.
Vatoe of Church
Propaty.
Conmuiii.
cants.
II
3,720
$",350
••US
8
2,070
10,540
34
10,625
39,600
1,113
406
129,340
$643,800
41,541
22,844
6,302,708
$96,723,408
2,240,354
35
1,160^838
187,600
2,279
4,124
6,468,280
452,725
27
7,161
54,440
3,415
1,587
565,577
2,714,128
349,788
1,924
571,266
3,683,337
141,989
342
86,254
393,250
16,492
12,688
150
3,359,466
46,400
18,775,362
41,680
1,200,976
8,765
5
585
525
319
17
5,150
3,750
1,059
27
10,100
15,000
2,346
1,653
541,464
1,713,366
129,383
78
20,930
291,993
4,764
620
165,004
805,085
22,110
14
7,725
266,975
2,569
3
1,050
12,863,178
2,000
951
46,138
$132,140,179
4,589,284
114
31,615
$681,250
11,781
6,664
2,225,044
$74,4S5.«»
2,034
669,507
3,515,510
195,826
183
S3,'39
189
3,311
364,398
625,875
5,408,084
8,812,152
690,843
33
4>849
29,300
116
37,050
211,850
"$
37.095
1,071,400
788,224
164,940
12,956
12,722
94,402
179,721
1,053
8,501
10,574
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390 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE II.— SuMMAKY mr
DnoimiATiOMS. Minisian. 2^!^
Presbyterians— C0ff/rff«^</.'
10. Reformed Presbvterian in North America
(General Synod) 29 33
11. Reformed Presbyterian (Covenanted) i 4
12. Reformed Presbyterian in the United States
and Canada i i
Total Presbyterians 10,448 13,476
Protestant Episcopal:
I. Protestant Episcopal 49I46 51O19
3. Reformed Episcopal 78 83
Total Episcopal 4y224 5,102
Reformed:
1. Reformed in America 558 572
2. Reformed in United States 880 1,510
3. Christian Reformed 68 99
Total Reformed 1,506 2,181
Salvation Army ... 329
Schwenkf eldert 3 4
Social Brethren 17 20
Society for Ethical Culture 4
Spiritualists ... 334
Theosophical Society ... 40
United Brethren:
1. United Brethren in Christ 2,267 3,731
2. United Brethren (Old Constitution) 531 795
Total United Brethren 2,798 4,526
Unitarians 515 421
Universalists 708 956
Independent Congregations 54 156
Grand Total ,«.,«« 111,036 165,297
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
391
Denominations. — ConHnued.
Edifioai.
Scftdaf
CapMitf.
Value of Church
33
I
12,469
12,380
200
800
4,038,650
$469,000
7S,ooo
$94,869,097
4,602
37
600
1,278,332
5,019
84
5,103
1,336,952
23,925
1,360,877
$81,220,317
1,615,101
$82,835,418
532,054
M55
540,509
670
2,080
257,922
534,254
33»755
825,931
$10,340,159
7,975,583
428,500
$18,744,242
92,970
204,018
12,470
309,458
II
30
I
12,055
£,925
8,700
20,450
200
$38,150
12,200
8,700
573,650
600
8,742
306
9]3
1,064
45,030
695
2,837
578
3,415
81
174,'
991,138
$4,292,643
644,940
$4,937,583
202,474
22,807
225,281
424
832
112
165,090
244,615
39,345
$10,335,100
8,054,333
1,486,000
67,749
49,194
14,126
142,659 43*596,378 $679,694,439 20,618,307
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392 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE III.— SxnCMARY B7
Adventists (6 bodies) 1,364 1,757
Baptists (13 bodies) 25,646 43,029
Brethren (Kiver) (3 bodies) 155 iii
Brethren (Plvmouth) (4 bodies) 314
Cathohcs (7 bodies) 9>i96 10,276
Catholic Apostolic 95 10
Chinese Temples 47
Cbristadelphians 63
Christians (2 bodies) 1,435 1,424
Christian Missionary Association 10 13
Christian Scientists 26 221
Christian Union 183 294
Church of God (Winebrennerian) 522 479
Church Triumphant (Schweinfurth) 12
Church of the New Jerusalem 119 154
Communistic Societies (8 bodies) 32
Congregationalists 5,058 4,868
Disciples of Christ 3>773 7,246
Dunkards (4 bodies) 2,088 989
Evangelical Association 1,235 2,310
Friends (4 bodies) 1,277 1,056
Friends of the Temple 4 4
German Evangelical (Protestant) 44 52
German Evangelical Synod 680 870
Jewish Congregations (2 bodies) 200
Latter-Day Saints (2 bodies) 3,043
Lutherans (16 bodies) and independent con-
gregations 4,591 8,595
Mennonites (12 bodies) 905 550
Methodists (17 bodies) 30,000 51,489
Moravians 1 14 94
Presbyterians (12 bodies) 10,448 13,476
Protestant Episcopal (2 bodies) 4»22^ 5, 102
Reformed (3 bodies) 1,506 2,181
Salvation Army 329
Schwenkfelders 3 4
Social Brethren 17 20
Society for Ethical Culture 4
Spiritualists 334
Theosophical Society 40
United Brethren (2 bodies) 2,798 4,526
Unitarians 515 421
Universalists 708 956
Independent Congregations 54 156
Total 111,036 165,297
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
393
Denominational Families.
Church
Edifioet.
774
37,789
70
8^816
3
47
4
1,098
II
7
184
338
**88
40
4,736
5,324
I9O16
1,899
995
5
A'
301
388
6,701
406
46,138
"4
12,469
5,103
2,080
'\
II
30
I
3,415
832
112
Seating
Capadty.
190,748
",599,534
22, 105
3,374,907
750
Value of C3iinch
Conununi-
950
347,697
3,300
1,500
68,000
115,530
20,810
9,450
1,553,080
1,609,452
414,036
479,335
302,218
1,150
35,175
245,781
139,234
122,892
2,205,635
129,340
12,863,178
3t,6i5
4,038,650
1,360,877
825,931
12,055
£,925
8,700
20,450
200
991,138
165,090
244,615
39,345
$1,236,345
82,302,423
81,350
1,465
"8,371,366
66,050
62,000
2,700
1,775,202
40,666
234,450
643,185
15,000
1,386,455
106,800
43,335,437
12,206,038
1,362,631
4,785,680
4,541,334
15,300
1,187,450
4,614,490
9,754,275
1,051,791
35,060,554
643,800
132,110,179
681,250
t 4,869,097
2,835,418
18,744,242
38,150
12,200
8,700
573,650
600
4,937,583
10,335,100
8,054,333
1,000
8,054,3
i,486,G
60^491
3,717,969
6,257,871
1,394
1,277
103,722
8,724
18,214
22,511
384
7,095
4,049
512,771
641,051
73,795
133,313
107,208
340
36,156
187,432
130,496
166,125
1,231,072
41,541
4,589,284
11,781
1,278,332
540,500
309,458
8,742
306
913
1,064
45,030
^^
225,281
67,749
49,194
14,126
142,639 43,596,378
$679,694,439 20,618,307
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Google
394 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IV.— Denominations According to Number
OF Communicants.
1. Roman Catholic 6,231,417
2. Methodist Episcopal 2y240y3$4
3. Regular Baptist (Colored) 1*34^9909
4. Regular Baptist (South) 1,280,066
5. Methodist Episcopal (South) 1,209,976
6. Regular Baptist (North) ^00^50
7. Presbyterian (North) 7^3,224
8. Disciples of Christ 641,051
9. Protestant Episcopal 532»o54
10. Congregational 5i3,77i
11. African Methodist Episcopal 452,725
12. Lutheran Synodical Conference ^^^''S}
13. African Methodist Episcopal Zion 349»7oi
14. Lutheran General Council yHfi^
15. Reformed in the United States 204,018
16. United Brethren in Christ 202,474
17. German Evangelical Synod 187,432
18. Presbyterian (South) i79>72i
19. Cumberland Presbyterian 164*940
20. Lutheran General Synod 164,640
21. Latter-Day Saints I4493S2
22. Methodist Protestant i4i>9o9
23. Evangelical Association I33>3i3
24. Colored Methodist Episcopal 1291383
25. Primitive Baptist 121,347
26. United Norwegian Lutheran II9»972
27. United Presbyterian 949402
28. Reformed in America 92*970
29. Christian 90,718
30. Freewill Baptist 87,808
31. Friends (Orthodox) 80,655
32. Jewish (Reformed) 72,899
33. Lutheran Synod of Ohio 69,505
34. Unitarian 67,749
35. Dunkards (Conservative) 61,101
36. Jewbh (Orthodox) 57>597
37. Norwegian Lutheran 55*45^
38. Universalist 49> W
39. Spiritualist 45i030
40. Lutheran United Synod in the South 37>457
41. German Evangelical Protestant Z^>^\^
42. Seventh-Day Adventist 28,991
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES. 395
TABLE IW.^CaniinuetL
omoiiDiATioiis. CoBwniiaicante.
43. Advent Christian 25,816
44. United Brethren (Old Constitution) 22,807
45. Church of God 22,511
46. Free Methodist 22,110
47. Friends (Hicksite) 21,992
48. Latter-Day Saints (Reorganized) 21,773
49. General Baptist 21,362
5a Christian Union 18,214
51. Mennonite ^7^^^
52. Wesleyan Methodist 16,492
53. Hauge's Lutheran Synod i4y73o
Independent Congregations 14,126
54. Russian Orthodox I3>5<H
55. United Baptist I3>209
56. Christian (South) i3»oc^
57. Cumberland Presbyterian (Colored) 12,956
58. Old Two-Seed Baptist 12,851
59. Welsh Calvinistic Methodist 12,722
00. Christian Reformed 12,470
61. Original Freewill Baptist 11,864
62. Moravian 1 1,781
63. Michigan Lutheran Synod 1 1,482
64. Greek Catholic (Uniates) 10,850
65. Reformed Presbyterian (Synod) 10,574
66. Danish Lutheran Church 10,181
67. Amish Mennonite 10,101
68. Seventh-Day Baptist 9,143
69. Congregational Methodist 8,765
70. Salvation Army 8,742
71. Christian Scientist 8,724
72. Associated Reformed Synod (South) 8,501
73. Reformed Episcopal 8,455
74. Baptist Church in Christ 8,2^4
75. Dunkards (Progressive) 8,089
70. New Jerusalem 7*095
77. Augsburg Lutheran Synod 7»o'o
78. General Conference Mennonite Sfi7^
79. Immanuel Lutheran Synod 5>58o
80. Primitive Methodist 4,764
81. Reformed Presbyterian (General Synod) 4,602
82. Dunkards (Old Order) 4,4"
83. Friends (Wilburite) 4,329
84. Bufialo Lutheran Synod 4,242
85. Danish Lutheran Association 3,493
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396 REUGJOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE IW. -^CoHtmuid.
DKN0MINAT10lf&
S6. African Union Methodist Protestant ..... 39415
87. Churches of God (Adventist) 2,872
88. Brethren in Christ 2,688
89. Independent Methodist 2,569
90. (Plymoath) Brethren II 2,419
91. Zion Union Apostolic 2,346
92. (Plymouth) Brethren 1 2,289
93. Union American Methodist Episcopal 2,279
94. Old Anush (Mennonite) 2,038
95. Icelandic Lutheran Synod 1,991
96. Shakers 1,728
97. Reformed Mennonite 1,655
98. Amana Society . 1,600
99. Separate Baptist 1,599
100. Catholic Apostolic i>394
loi. Bundes Conference (Mennonite) 1,388
102. Suomai Lutheran Synod 1,385
103. Christadelphian 1,277
104. (Plymouth) Brethren III 1,235
105. Evangelical Adventist 1,147
106. Brethren in Christ (Mennonite) 1,113
107. Ethical Culture 1,064
108. New Congregational Methodist 1,059
109. Associate Church of North America 1,053
I ID. Life and Advent Union 1,018
111. Reformed Catholic 1,000
1 12. Evangelist Missionary 951
113. Six-Principle Baptist 937
1 14. Social Brethren 913
1 15. Defenseless Mennonite 856
116. Christian Missionary Association 754
117. (Plymouth) Brethren IV 718
118. Theosophical Society 695
119. Old Catholic 665
120. Church of God (Adventist) 647
121. Old (Wisler) Mennonite 610
122. Reformed Presbyterian in the United States
and Canada 600
123. United Zion's Children 525
124. Church of God in Christ (Mennonite) 471
125. Church Triumphant (Schweinfurth) 384
126. Bruederhoef Mennonite 352
127. Friends of the Temple 340
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES. 397
TABLE IV.-^CmHnuetL
DBMOMiNATiONS. Commiuucanta.
138. Armenian Catholic 335
139. Congregational Methodist (Colored) 319
13a Schwenkfelder 306
131. Harmony Society 250
132. Friends (Primitive) 232
133. Old Order, or Yorker Brethren 214
134. Apostolic Mennonite 209
135. Church Triumphant (Koreshan Ecdesia) 205
136. Separatists 200
137. Seventh-Day Baptist, German 194
138. Greek Orthodox loo
139. Reformed Presbyterian Covenanted 37
140. Altruists 25
141. New Icarians 21
142. Adonai Shomo 20
143. Chinese Temples (no members reported).
TABLE v.— Denominational Families According to
Number of Communicants.
DBNOMiKATiONS. Conununicants.
1. Catholic 6,257,871
2. Methodist 4,589,284
3. Baptist 3»7i7,9^
4. Presbyterian 1,278,332
5. Lutheran 1,231,072
6. Episcopalian 54o»509
7. Reformed 309,458
8. United Brethren 225,281
9. Latter-Day Saints 166,125
la Jewish 130,496
11. Friends 107,208
12. Christians 103,722
13. Dunkards 73»795
14. Adventist 60,491
15. Mennonite 4i>54i
16. (Plymouth) Brethren 6,661
17. Communistic Societies 4»o49
18. (River) Brethren 3,427
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398 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VI. — Denominations
Adventist (4 bodies)
Baptist (12 bodies)
(River) Brethren (all)
n>lymouth) Brethren (all)
Catholic (Reformed)
Christians (all)
Christadelphian
Christian Missionary Association.
Christian Scientist
Christian Union
Chinese Temples
Congregational
Disciples of Christ
Friends of the Temple
German Evangelical Protestant. ■
Jewish Congregations (all)
Lutheran (2 bodies) (b)
Methodist Independent
Schwenkfelder^
Social Brethren
Society for Ethical Culture
Spiritualist
Theosophical Society
Unitarian
Independent Congregations
1,061 733
25,528 42,862
155 III
314
8 8
1,435 1*424
^3
10 13
26 221
183 294
47
5,058 4,868
3,773 7,246
4 4
44 52
200 533
1,626 2,586
8 15
3 4
17 20
4
334
40
515 421
54 156
Ens
Catholic (6 bodies) 9,188 10,268
Catholic Apostolic 95 10
Evangelical Association 1,235 2,310
Latter-Day Saints (all) 2,043 856
Methodist (8 bodies) 27,019 46,907
Moravian 1 14 94
Protestant Episcopal (all) 4,224 5, 102
United Brethren (all) 2,798 4,526
(a) For expfauadons, see page
ofbitroductio&
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Google
GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
399
Classified According to Polity (a).
GATIONAL.
CSiiuch
SMdiac
Value of Chmt:h
EdifiOM.
Cap-dty.
Property.
I|5
95»92i
11,558,134
$589,870
37,66*
82,335,4i«
70
22,105
..■?
1)098
347)697
1,775,202
4
950
2,700
II
3,300
3'???
7
.i'^oo
40,666
184
68,000
234,450
62,000
4,736
1,553,080
43,335,437
5,324
1,609,452
12,206,038
5
1,150
15,300
53
35,175
1,187,450
301
139,324
9,754,275
3,163
654,867
io,69|,i45
266,975
1
7,725
1,925
12,200
II
8,700
8,700
30
20,450
573,^50
I
200
600
424
165,090
10,335,100
1,486,000
112
39,345
ConuBimi-
30,853
3,706,105
3,427
6,661
1,000
103,722
1,277
8,724
18,214
512,771
641,051
340
36,156
130,496
468,611
2,569
306
913
1,064
45,030
^ ^5
67,749
14,126
COPAL.
8,816
3i374,907
.3
750
'*
479,335
122,892
42,961
11,952,703
114
31,615
5,103
1,360,877
3,415
991,138
$"8,371,366
66,050
4,785,680
1,051,791
126,599,144
681,250
82,835,418
4,937,583
6,256,871
1,394
133,313
166,125
4,387,802
11,781
540,509
225,281
(^) Inclading independent congregatioDi.
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400 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VI.^Dbnominations Classified
Prssby
lifiniaten. Or^UA.
Adventist (2 bodies) 303 i>o24
Baptist, Original Freewill 118 167
Church of God (Winebrennerian) 522 479
Church of the New Jerusalem 119 154
Dunkards (all) 2,088 989
Friends (all) 1,277 h^S^
German Evangelical Synod 680 870
Lutheran (a) (14 bodies) 2,965 6,009
Mennonites (all) 905 550
Methodist (8 bodies) 2,973 49507
Presbyterians (all) 10,448 I3>476
Reformed (all) 1,506 2,181
Salvation Anny 329
Universalist 708 956
Recapit
Congregational 39i7o8 62,373
Episcopal 4^»7i6 709O73
Presbyterian 24,612 32,807
Grand Total 111,036 165,253
TABLE VIL— Summary of
Colored
xnNOMiNATiONS. Oisudzadoni.
Regular Baptist (Colored) 12,533
Union American Methodist Episcopal 42
African Methodist Episcopal 2,481
African Union Methodist Protestant 40
^) For Mcphinarifwi, ne
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
401
According to Vaixvi^'^CotUinued.
TERIAN.
Chinch
Edifices.
Seating
Qipadty.
VafaieofC3uiidi
Pkoperty.
ConuBtini-
cants.
419
94,827
$646,475
??;g
12 C
41,400
^57,005
115,530
20,810
643,185
22,511
1,386,455
7,095
1,016
414,036
1,362,631
73,795
107,208
1^
302,218
4,541,334
245,781
4,614,490
187,432
4,539
1,550,768
24,367,209
762,461
406
129,340
643,800
41,541
3,163
902,750
5,274,060
198,913
12,469
4,038,650
94,869,097
1,278,332
2,080
825,931
18,744,242
300,458
8,742
27
12,055
38,150
«32
244,615
8,054,333
49,194
JkTION.
52,618
16,334,000
$175,001,891
5,802,614
62,699
18,314,217
339,328,282
11,723,076
27,282
8,938,711
43,586,928
165,242,466
$679,572,639
3,088,184
143,599
20,613,874
Colored Organizations.
Denominations.
Chwch
11,987
35
4,124
27
Seating
Capacity.
3,441,880
11,500
1,160,838
7,161
of IntroductioQ.
VahieorChiirch
Property.
$9,038,549
187,600
6,468,280
54,440
1,349,189
2,279
452,725
3,415
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402 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VII.— Colored
African Methodist Episcopal Zion 1,704
Congregational Methodist (Colored) 9
Colored Methodist Episcopal 1,759
Zion Union Apostolic 33
Evangelist Missionary 11
Cumberland Presbyterian (Colored) 224
Total 18,835
COLORSD Organizations
Regular Baptist (North) 406
Regular Baptist (South) 7
Freewill Baptist 5
Primitive Baptist 323
Old Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit Predestinarian Baptist . 15
Roman Catholic 31
Christians (Christian Connection) 63
Con^gational 85
Disaples of Christ 277
Lutheran (Synodical Conference) 5
Lutheran (United Synod in the South) 5
Methodist Episcopal ^S^
Methodist Protestant 54
Independent Methodist 2
Presbyterian (Northern^ 233
Presbyterian (Southern) 45
Reformed Presbyterian (Synod) i
Protestant Episcopal 49
Reformed Episcopal .^ 37
Total 4»^7
Recapit
Colored Denominations 18,835
Colored Organizations in other Denominations Afi^7
Total 23,462
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
403
Dbnominations. — Continued,
Chuicii
1,587
1,653
27
A
I9»63i
Seating
Value of Chmt:h
Omimtt|%L
Capwity.
Property.
cants.
565,577
$2,714,128
349,788
585
5%
319
541,464
1,713,366
129,383
lOylOO
15,000
2,346
1,050
2,000
951
52,139
195,826
12,956
5,792,294 $20,389,714 2,303,351
IN OTHER Denominations.
324
92,660
$1,087, c 18
3,875
35,221
5
^'1^
651
3
13,300
271
291
96,699
135,427
18,162
4
1,025
930
265
27
8,370
237,400
14,517
54
16,495
23,500
4,989
69
19,360
246,125
6,908
183
41,590
176,795
18,578
5
1,050
13,400
211
3
550
1,750
94
2,800
635,252
3,630,093
246,249
50
",545
35,445
3,183
2
725
4,675
222
56,280
391,650
14,961
29
6,190
22,200
1,568
I
ii,iS
1,500
76
n
192,750
2,977
5,975
18,401
1,723
4,139
1,008,651
$6,236,734
370,826
ULATION.
19,631
5,792,294
$20,389,714
2,303,351
4,139
1,008,651
6,236,734
370,826
23,770
6,800,945 $26,626,448
2,674,177
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404 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VIII. 'Churches in CrriES— First Class (a).
ORGANIZATIONS.
DBNOMiNATiOMa. Yoric ^^<^ ddDhia, W Total
Baptist (4 bodies) 43 36 94 34 207
Roman Catholic ,.. 133 123 57 57 360
Congregational 8 47 3 20 78
Disciples of Christ 3 5 3 3 14
Evangelical Association 3 11 9 6 29
Friends (3 bodies^ 3 2 10 3 18
Lutheran (11 bodies) 29 65 41 25 160
Jewish Congregations (2 bodies) 135 '7 9^ '^
Methodist Episcopal oa 97 108 56 324
Other Methodist (9 bodies) .. . 8 14 24 12 58
Presbyterian (6 bodies) 67 39 112 31 249
Protestant Episcopal 80 36 87 42 245
Reformed (3 bodies) 32 9 21 18 80
Unitarian 3 5 3 3 H
Universalist 4525 16
Miscellaneous 40 62 27 37 166
Total 644 573 610 360 2,187
(lO Cidn haviac 500^000 populatioB and upward.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
405
TABLE VIII.— Churches in Citiks— First ChASs.^CcnHnued,
CHURCH KDIFICBS.
New ri.;*.««r« PM*- Brook-
YoA Chicago. ^^^ ^ Y^^
Baptist (4 bodies) '.- 41 '^40'^ ^'oj 42 218
Roman Catholic 108 119 1^- 01 62 31
Congregational 10 48 4 27
Disdples of Christ 2422 10
Evangelical Association 3 11 9 6 29
Friends (3 bodies) 2 i 15 3 21
Lutheran (II bodies) 24 58 40 25 147
Jewish Congregations (2 bodies) 41 10 8 8 67
Methodist Episcopal 63 75-^ 107 55 300
Other Methodist (9 bodies) .. . 6 13 20 11 50
Presbyterian (6 bodies) 79 38 136 37 290
Protestant Episcopal 98 32 102 60 2<
Reformed (3 bodies) 34 9 21 25
Unitarian 4 4 4 5 i7
Universalist 4425 15
Miscellaneous 15 34 3^ 10 97
Total 534 5«> ^ 3^3 2,081
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406 KEUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VIII.-^HURCHBS ix
Value of
New Yoric City.
Baptist (4 bodies) $3,878,800
Roman Catholic 8,124,750
Con^^gational 1,015,500
Disaples of Christ f 13,000
Evangelical Association 80,000
Friends (3 bodies) 448,000
Lutheran (11 bodies) 1,621,800
Jewish Congregations (2 bodies) 3,740,000
Methodist Episcopal 3»^>75o
Other Methodist (9 bodies) 331,000
Presbyterian (6 bodies) 9t354>ooo
Protestant Episcopal 10,393,000
Reformed (3 bodies) 3,448,000
Unitarian 630,000
UniversaUst 565,000
Miscellaneous 1,287,000
Total $54,670,600
COMMUNI
Population 1,515,301
DBNOIIINATI<»fS.
Baptist (4 bodies) i4>5io
Roman Catholic 386,200 t?.5^
Congregational 3,047
Disciples of Christ 414
Evangelical Association 292
Friends (3 bodies) 835
Lutheran (11 bodies) 16,125
Jewish Congregations (2 bodies) 35'^S
Methodist Episcopal Z4>998
Other Methodist (9 bodies) 2,681
Presbyterian (6 bodies) 26,602
Protestant Episcopal 37>597
Reformed (3 bodies) 8,942
Unitarian 940
Universalist 863
Miscellaneous 7*823
Total 556,954
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES,
407
Cities— First Class. — Continued.
Church Property.
CUcago, in.
BrooUyn, N. Y.
ToiaL
$1,053,350
$2,962,384
$1,858,000
4,984,637
$9,752,534
4,837,657
2,468,300
20,415,344
1,272,310
160,110
1,753,000
4,200,920
65,000
35»ooo
50,800
263,800
137,000
130,500
49,500
397,000
12,000
1,495,000
1,584,400
146,000
2,101,000
1,080,250
852,100
5,138,550
536,500
^75.000
3,288,200
227,000
4,978,500
2,023,100
2,116,500
11,068,550
195,600
258,900
166,650
952,150
19,087,300
1,646,800
6,504,500
1,582,000
1,223,100
5,919,171
860,000
3,360,500
26,904,771
35,800
976,500
5,320,300
300,000
250,000
190,000
1,370,000
218,000
245,500
183,250
1,211,750
826,200
1,386,400
177,000
3,676,600
$15,462,667
$28,023,365
$18,682,437
$116,839,069
CANTS.
1,099,850
1,046,964
806,343
4,468,458
12,634
i^"^ ili'^i u^(
13,971
^^308 ^.,
262,047 '
201,063 <^^'i
1,012,968 M c
9,704
890
",153
24,794
:;sj
472
287
2,493
1,256
412
3,644
6,839
322
5,014
768
34,999
9,187
",653
4,216
14,732
2,645
77,509
5i>i33
82,192
15,859
32,925
18,410
3,091
5,281
1,416
11,469
11,831
41,199
17,095
96,727
•«5
28,319
17,600
92,453
7,566
5,473
22,790
995
675
1,600
4,210
1,037
514
771
3,185
14,789
6,358
2,214
31,184
388,145
335,189
309,610
1,589,898
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408 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VIII.— Churches in
Organi
Baptist Catholic Gonnega- Jews Lutlicnn
(5 bodies). (6 bodies). donaL (a bodies).
(IS
St. Louis, Mo
Boston, Mass.
Baltimore, Md.
San Francisco, Cal. . .
Cincinnati, O
Cleveland, O
Buf&lo,N.Y
New Orleans, La
Pittsburg, Pa.
Washington, D. C. . .
Detroit, Mich
Milwaukee, Wis.
Newark, N.J
Minnesmolis, Minn. . .
Jersey City, N. J
Louisville, Ky
Omaha, Neb
Rochester, N. Y
St. Paul, Minn
Kansas City, Mo
Providence, R. I
Denver, Col
Indianapolis, Ind. . . .
Allegheny, Pa.
Total 417
35
86
14
9
16
3
60
30
7
7
43
2
II
25
8
33
8
6
7
15
41
5
6
4
16
26
16
II
12
12
29
4
4
13
27
33
4
9
10
12
43
2
2
12
55
15
6
2
II
II
32
6
4
16
9
29
6
5
22
12
1I
'5
2
7
4
^
20
3
2
2
21
7
H
22
I
4
6
9
10
5
II
12
16
2
3
7
II
25
9
3
20
13
22
7
3
4
19
18
13
4
I
II
12
10
4
5
10
9
5
6
4
5
13
2
I
12
666
187
120
257
St Louis, Mo 36 80
Boston, Mass 29 35
Baltimore, Md. 38 41
San Francisco, CaL . . 6 33
Cincinnati, 0 12 40
Cleveland, 0 16 28
Buffalo,N.Y 15 28
New Orleans, La. 26 32
12
32
2
9
5
17
5
4
5
5
5
2
4
Church
24
6
3
II
13
10
(«) Cities baTiBC a popdadon
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
409
Cities — Second Class (a).
Methodist
Episcopal.
Otber
(XI bodies)
Plesbytc
nan
(XX bodie8>
Protestant
Episcopal
Refenned
(3 bodies).
Misoel.
laneous.
Total
21
21
25
26
42
289
2*
2
9
27
I
74
370
H
42
27
40
10
47
371
16
4
19
7
^
150
ii
2
21
II
5
36
179
4
14
16
12
45
190
20
3
13
17
8
33
156
22
26
13
II
II
165
27
12
45
13
2
24
>94
fi
30
16
17
2
18
19s
5
15
21
2
24
152
13
3
7
5
2
20
131
17
4
23
II
7
9
I IS
24
3
II
8
31
'1*
H
2
10
9
II
8
89
9
17
16
12
2
15
139
10
2
15
10
15
95
10
3
13
12
4
16
98
28
2
13
12
I
15
139
19
10
12
5
I
27
133
12
7
2
"2
26
"S
12
5
10
8
I
20
98
iS
6
16
7
3
21
■3
7
5
25
2
6
500
220
390
314
74
625
3»77o
Edifices.
21
18
26
17
33
g
2
8
35
I
51
37
3S
52
10
16
3
16
9
22
31
2
24
II
s
30
20
3
21
20
13
42
20
3
17
19
8
^
20
26
13
13
6
of 100,000 to
500,00a
263
235
371
III
195
154
154
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4IO RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE VIII.— Church
Bttptist CadioUc Consrega- Tews Luthena
(5 bodies). (6 bodies). tionaL (a bodies), (sa bodies^
Pittsburg, Pa
Washington, D. C. . .
Detroit, Mich
Milwaukee, Wis
Newark, N. J
Minneapolis, Minn. . .
Jersey City, N. J
Louisville, Ky.
Omaha, Neb
Rochester, N. Y
St Paul, Minn
Kansas City, Mo
Providence, R. I
Denver, Col
Indianapolis, Ind. . . .
Allegheny, Pa,
Total 409
10
40
2
2
13
45
15
6
2
13
12
33
6
4
16
9
22
6
3
22
12
19
2
3
16
12
16
17
8
15
2
S
27
22
6
9
9
10
10
14
16
2
8
II
18
8
19
12
21
5
4
21
17
16
10
12
10
6
10
8
4
6
5
13
2
••
10
608
183
74 246
Value or Church
«.».». Baptist
°™»- (Sb<;dies).
St. Louis, Mo $43i>375
Boston, Mass. i>537>ooo
Baltimore, Md 804,150
San Francisco, CaL 1999250
Cincinnati, 0 348,500
Cleveland, 0 363,500
Buffalo, N. Y 412,000
New Orleans, La 1379S50
Pittsburg, Pa. 252,200
Washington, D. C 1,026,000
Detroit, Mich 344,200
Milwaukee, Wis 200,800
Newark, N. J 547^000
Minneapolis, Minn 5 13,863
Jersey City, N. J 207,000
Louisville, Ky. 686,650
Omaha, Neb 124,300
Rochester, N< Y 4241607
Catholic
(61
$1,602,835
3,296,700
1,462,920
i,364,3a>
1,034,900
832,000
2,176,500
970,400
1,373.800
990,800
1,050,800
891,200
783,CH9
625,115
1,083,500
889,200
549ia»
1,057,000
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
411
EDincxs. — Continued.
Other
Methodist
(zx bodies).
JTCsoyto-
Prolestuit
Reformed
Mtsod.
Ta*«I
EpiKopia.
(xz b^).
.^>i«»I»L
(3 bodies).
laneons.
lOlU.
36
12
46
18
2
16
187
22
27
20
27
2
7
186
17
3
'2
^
2
18
IS6
14
2
8
8
2
II
107
18
4
35
16
12
6
132
23
2
14
8
. .
17
136
U
2
II
12
12
7
89
9
18
20
19
2
19
144
10
2
16
10
, ,
6
84
II
2
14
16
6
II
103
30
2
13
13
I
II
138
13
9
15
5
I
15
lOI
II
5
2
14
14
lOI
12
4
7
7
I
9
81
19
6
16
7
3
13
96
7
5
26
4
5
77
493
199
440
389
82 439 3,562
Property.
^^*S£2^
(s&X
Lothenm
(IS bodies).
EpisoopeL
$333,000
2,318,100
$178,000
$422,400
$274,450
243,000
72,000
1,085,000
68,000
263,000
585,800
168,200
2,055,300
249,500
300,000
446,500
169,000
484,000
119,000
691,000
397,200
108,000
178,000
517,000
117,000
50,000
257,070
404,900
15,700
235,000
60,200
119,412
52,500
65,000
373»ooo
796,900
758,800
339,000
42,000
414,000
161,500
107,000
181,250
366,600
158,000
93,000
653,700
183,000
90,000
117,800
75,000
679,500
465,250
20,000
203,000
474,200
52,000
10,000
77,000
345»30o
4,500
40,800
105,000
220,600
20,500
258,075
191,100
120,000
40,000
127,000
250,000
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412 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VIIL— Value op
Btt>dbt
(5 bodies).
St Paul, Minn $250,400
Kansas City, Mo 356,000
Providence, R. 1 676,700
Denver, Col 254,600
Indianapolis, Ind 93>6oo
Allegheny, Pa, 37»400
Total $10,228,945
CftthoBc
(61
$683,300
569,950
1,285,000
5i3,<H2
243»7a>
337,5a>
$26,566,511
Continuation of Value
Other Methodist
(ix bodies).
St. Louis, Mo $474,900
Boston, Mass 105,000
Baltimore, Md 686,100
San Francisco, CaL 7i»45o
Cincinnati,0 18,000
Cleveland, 0 3i>ooo
Buffalo, N. Y 17*300
New Orleans, La 3i9>i95
Pittsburg, Pa. 448,800
Washington, D. C 760, 100
Detroit, Mich 30,600
Milwaukee, Wis 42*500
Newark, N. J 58,500
Minneapolis, Minn 1 1,000
Jersey City, N. J 16,600
Louisville, Ky 268,500
Omaha, Neb 53>ooo
Rochester, N. Y 16,000
St Paul, Minn 18,000
Kansas City, Mo 250,070
Providence, R. 1 80,368
Denver, CoL 1 10,000
Indianapolis, Ind. 87,500
Allegheny, Pa. 123,000
Total $4,097,483
(xz bodies).
$980,700
350,000
1,191,324
666,100
063,700
840,000
1,051,600
337,000
2,042,450
950,000
875,000
302,500
1,339*720
546,000
280,500
575,500
195,700
670,000
395.000
332,700
55,000
236,150
360,000
831,600
t
$16,368,244
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
413
Church Property— C^n/mffA/.
'"'SSSt
(a^X
Luthaan
(xabodk*).
Methodist
FrPttTOPql
$133,300
$50,000
$269,300
$389,200
164,500
50,000
95,000
397,385
585.500
25,000
250,300
206,300
63,500
140,200
652,000
66,050
24,500
118,700
351,000
30,500
201,400
197,000
$6,512,400 $2,593,800 $5,090,095 $11,980,847
OF Church Property.
Prottttuit
EpUeopaL
RefemMd
(3 bodies).
Total
$502,000
$677,300
$5,876,960
2,144,175
$5*6,000
185,500
3,464,400
14,671,375
1,418,544
808,200
9,528,838
385,000
390,800
4,241,100
314,000
172,500
929,450
6,144,050
367,700
74,650
524,850
4,233,900
797,000
76,000
609,750
5,969,120
231,500
126,850
2,553,107
939,500
021,000
70,000
499,600
6,913,750
31,000
270,375
6,370,575
13,000
367,600
4,119,150
493,700
24,500
162,500
3,205,400
426,000
426,500
179,000
4,722,069
3,446,828
246,200
342,200
325,000
336,500
65,000
2,798,400
376,300
25,000
361,300
3,332,750
276,550
102,000
1,990,825
330,500
46,000
297,000
3,378,107
193,700
8,000
109,200
2,499,300
200,500
12,000
244,250
2,672,355
4,258,768
2,884,142
627,300
673,600
418,000
20,000
270,350
153,000
76,000
23,000
130,600
1,651,650
203,000
2,037,400
$12,652,269
$1,600,150
$11,809,175
$109,499,919
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414 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE VIII— Churches in
COMMUNI
Popub. Bapdit CathoUc S^ Jews
don. (5bodi«). (6 bodies). §^2.' ^* ^«>
St Louis, Mo 45 1,770 5,654 759908 2,670 3,022
Boston, Mass 44M77 11)885 185,18810,076 2,300
Baltimore, Md. 434f439 18,728 77,047 268 3,500
San Francisco, CaL 298,997 1,228 70,670 2,121 4,075
Cincinnati, 0 296,908 4,063 72,368 1,047 3,725
Cleveland, 0 261,353 3,449 52,420 3,333 2,911
Buffalo, N. Y 255,664 3,958 73,010 592 1,025
New Orleans, La. 242,039 2,941 67,156 431 2,750
Pittsburg, Pa. 238,617 2,288 56,916 489 1,250
Washington, D. C 230,392 21,781 36,488 1,399 97^
Detroit, Mich 205,876 3,078 45,795 1,268 2,700
Milwaukee, Wis. 204,468 1,686 _ 35,050 .1,154 i)8i
Newark, N. J 181,830 4,1 19 39>324 744 2,090
Minneapolis, Minn 164,738 3,687 37,855 3,372 474
Jersey City, N. J 163,003 2,378 45.76© 633 250
Louisville, Ky 161,129 13,753 33»74o 5^ 515
Omaha, Neb 140,452 1,107 7fi7S i>io3 i,035
Rochester, N. Y i33»^ 3,345 31*690 460 911
St Paul, Minn 133,156 1,067 5**215 1,354 950
Kansas City, Mo 132,716 4,490 11,900 1,076 825
Providence, R. 1 132, 146 5,382 44,065 3,766 875
Denver, CoL 106,713 2,498 18,039 1,362 895
Indianapolis, Ind 105,436 1,714 8,390 636 1,627
Allegheny, Pa. 105,287 1,005 i3>494 356 25
Total 5*229,432 126,184 1,191,163 39,766 39,687
RBCAPIT
SAllOQSi
Cities of the First Class (4) 2,187
Cities of the Second Class (24) 3,770
Cities of the Third Class (96) 4,284
Total (124) 10,241
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
415
CiTIBS— SBCOND CIASS.— ^M/Mf«Mll
CANTS.
Luthemn Mct>>odbt Other Presby- Procettaat ]te£«„«H ^'*'
/^ K^Suft EpiKSO- Methodist terian Episco- StSES celhir Total
(» bodies). »^ (i, bodies). (II bodies). paL 13 bodies). ^^
7>458 3*871 6,440 5,727 3,536 .... 16,900 131,186
i»959 5,963 737 3,243 8,167 62 15,468 244^048
10,902 22,258 10,879 6,505 12,193 3,695 9,920 175,995
2,096 3,115 1,125 3,421 2,446 2,575 92,872
1,252 6,262 587 5,110 2,253 2,018 17,092 115,777
7,162 4,440 543 5,553 3,257 2,611 8,706 94,385
13,460 3,785 210 4,240 3,387 2,163 9,330 115,160
2,777 3,938 4,679 3,023 2,910 5,111 95,716
4,868 6,701 2,926 12,066 3,545 630 14,078 105,757
2,997 9,144 6,526 5,128 7,315 301 2,517 94,572
8,609 4,696 875 5,343 5,693 220 5,120 83,397
.18,892 2,403 119 1,467 - 1*95^ 380 .4»i65_ 68,24a.
1,387 6,199 568 7,606 3,076 2,178 2,697 60,988
5,906 4,432 189 3,653 2,465 3,151 65,184
2,230 3,805 231 2,000 2,755 3,033 790 63,865
1,483 1,613 6,271 3,981 3,651 600 7,692 73,355
1,277 1,859 204 2,150 1,228 1,020 18,658
4,847 3,008 360 6,137 3,263 952 4,064 59,037
5,608 3,290 190 2,772 2,140 120 1,607 7i,"3
838 3,195 1,060 2,272 1,143 31 3,870 31,600
75 2,886 859 525 4,251 4,031 66,715
540 2,858 706 2,319 1,820 35 2,541 33,613
2,588 5,829 2,053 3,806 1,120 560 3,833 32,156
2,804 2,538 1,107 6,985 484 3,868 32,666
112,015 118,088 50,344 104,032 84,050 191589 150,146 2,035,064
iJLATION.
Church
Edifices.
Value of Chinch
Property.
CMnmuni-
cants.
Population.
2,081
$116,839,069
1,589,898
4,468,458
3,562
109,499,919
3,035,064
5,339,432
4,079
87,198,259
1,677,056
4,291,048
9,722
$313,537,247
5,303,018
«3,988.938
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A
STATISTICAL SUMMARY BY STATES ACCORDING
TO THE CENSUS OF 1906
SHOWING Gains in the Sixteen Years in Number and
Percentage of Communicants
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:8 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I.— Returns
tXAilS. Oi^uiiattioiis.
Alabama 8,858
^Alaska
Arizona 236
Arkansas 6,144
California 2,840
Colorado 1,261
Connecticut 1*364
Delaware 467
District of Columbia 288
Florida 3,346
Georgia 10,026
Idaho 673
Illinois 9^308
Indiana 6,829
Iowa 6,259
Kansas 4»975
Kentucky 6,512
Louisiana 3,813
Maine ii532
Maryland 2,756
Massachusetts 3>o3i
Michigan 5,605
Minnesota 4,721
Mississippi 7i36z
Missouri 9>i72
Montana 542
Nebraska 3>3oo
Nevada 86
New Hampshire 832
New Jersey 2j75o
New Mexico 624
New York 9,227
North Carolina 8,554
North Dakota 1,961
Ohio 9»8o7
fOklahoma 4*466
Oregon 1,290
Pennsylvania 12,748
Edifices.
Seatiiig
Capwaty.
8,183
2,423,175
181
40,954
5,192
1,446,892
2,521
694,510
956
255,469
1,414
522,941
478
130,267
264
142,311
3,061
688,986
9,624
3,063,866
495
121,775
8,626
2,685,352
6,580
2,132,181
5,921
1,617,467
4,107
1,054,976
5,894
1,775,123
3,630
1,046,850
1,5"
412,833
2,814
810,701
2,983
1,313,564
4,882
1,353,180
4,280
1,104,317
6,997
2,041,665
8,146
2,391,498
407
100,665
2,847
649,132
0^7
15,015
851
254,017
2,875
1,015,903
522
129,745
9,193
3,191,267
8,188
2,715,567
1,325
262,251
9,519
3,102,819
2,709
598,650
1,086
270,329
12,780
4,646,929
'Not given in
census of x9o6>
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\
GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
419
BY States por 1906.
Va1u« of CliUTch
CommmiH
Property.
cults.
♦13,314,993
824,209
798,97s
45,057
6,733,375
426,179
28,065,261
611,464
7,723,200
205,666
29,196,128
502,560
3,250,105
71,251
10,025,122
136,759
5,795,859
221,318
17,929,183
1,029,037
1,726,734
74,578
66,222,514
2,077,197
31,081,500
938,405
30,464,860
788,667
14,053,454
458,190
18,044,389
858,324
10,456,146
778,901
9,955,363
212,988
23,765,172
473,257
84,729,445
1,562,621
27,144,250
982,479
26,053,159
834,442
9,482,229
657,381
38,059,233
1,199,239
2,809,779
98,984
12,114,817
345,803
402,350
14,944
7,864,991
190,298
50,907,123
857,548
956,605
137,009
255,166,284
3,591,974
14,053,505
824,385
4,576,157
159,053
74,670,765
1,742,873
4,933,843
257,100
4,620,793
120,229
173,605,141
2,977,022
in Commttnicaats, 1890-Z006.
Actual. PercenUge.
265,038
47
18,085
67
129,971
44
330,845
118
118,829
137
193,219
62
22,572
46
42,556
45
79,584
56
349,986
52
50,542
aio
874,609
73
244,545
35
231,580
42
121,461
36
251,927
42
378,909
95
52,717
33
93,839
25
619,870
66
412,975
73
301,852
57
226,635
53
463^00
63
66,236
202
151,337
78
9,056
154
87,307
85
349,197
69
31,260
30
1,420,152
65
139,191
20
99,557
167
526,407
43
222,924
652
49,705
70
1,250,382
72
t Includes Indian Tenitozy, given separately in xSga
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/^
420 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE I.— Returns by
Rhode Island 507
South Carolina 5,373
South Dakota 1,798
Tennessee 7»963
Texas 12,285
Utah 537
Vermont 902
Virginia 6,605
Washington 1,759
West Virginia 4,019
Wisconsin 4,880
Wyoming 226
Total for U. S. in 1906 210,418
♦Total for U. S. in 1890 165,271
Increase in 16 years 45,i47
Edifices.
Seftoiw
Cai»dty.
493
195,688
5,290
1,774,437
1,461
285,197
7,400
2,323,28s
9,589
2,8*2,460
516
169,369
891
235,661
6,480
1,974,332
1,416
341,812
3,428
949,812
4,562
1,206,385
160
35,250
192,795
58,536,830
142,605
43,591,575
50,190
14,945,255
•Ssdnive
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
421
States for 1906. — Continued,
Valae of Church
Communi-
loCKHe in rfttnmiml<*a
iBts,x8go-
Property.
cants.
Actual.
#eicS
$9,533,543
264,712
116,704
79
10,209,043
665,933
157,448
31
4,538,013
161,961
76,471
89
14,469,012
697,570
144,912
26
22,949,976
1,226,906
549,745
81
3,612,422
172,814
44,699
35
5,939,492
147,223
40,908
40
19,699,014
793,546
224,311
38
8,082,986
191,976
133,178
227
9,733,585
301,565
109,088
57
27,277,837
1,000,903
444,420
80
778,142
23,945
32,936,44s
12,240
105
$1,257,575,867
12,332,990
60
679,490,789
20,603,455
$578,085,078
12,332,990
ofAlaika.
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STATISTICAL TABLES FOR 1900 AND 1910
GAINS AND LOSSES OF TWO DECADES
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424 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
STATISTICAL SUMMARIES
TABLE I.— Ministers, Churches, and Coiocumi
For the
In the United
DKHOMiNATioiis. MisHteis. Chmcbes.
Adventists:
1. Evangelical 34 30
2. Advent Christians 912 610
3. Seventh-Day 386 1,494
4. Church of God 19 29
5. Life and Advent Union 60 28
6. Churches of God in Jesus Christ 94 95
Total Adventists 1,505 2,286
Baptists:
1. Regular (North) 7,535 9,295
2. Regular (South) 12,560 19,669
3. Regular (Colored) 9,856 14,786
4. Six-Principle 8 12
5. Seventh-Day 124 95
6. Free 1,436 1,522
7. Freewill 120 167
8. General 484 423
9. Separate 113 103
10. United 25 204
11. Baptist Church of Christ 80 152
12. Primitive 2,130 3,530
13. Primitive (Colored) (i)
14. Old Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit Predestinarian. 300 473
1 5. Church of God and Saints of Christ (Col.)
Total Baptists 34,77i 5o,43i
Brethren (Dunkards or Dunkers):
1. Conservative 2,612 850
2. Old Order 140 80
3. Progressive 231 145
4. Seventh-Day (German) 5 6
Total (Dunkard) Brethren 2,988 1,081
(X) Not I
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES, 425
FOR 1900 AND 1910
CANTS IN THE UNITED STATES OnLY
Tear 1900. For the Year zgxa
Sutcs Only. In the United States Only.
Communicants. Ministers. Churches.
1,147 C 8 C 18 C 481
26,500 c 528 c 550 c 26,799
54,539 517 1,826 65,122
647 ^32 c 20 c6ii
3,000 c 12 c 12 c 509
2,872 C56 <;62 £2,124
999,657
8,198
1,638,985
14,533
1,594,584
12,637
828
10
9,095
98
86,535
1,186
12,000
604
24,775
550
6,479
c xoo
13,209
C260
8,254
€99
126,000
c 1,500
c 1,480
12,851
^35
^75
4,533,252
41,365
95,000
3,006
4,000
228
13,000
186
194
9
112,194
3,429
in xSgo. c Cenaoa of
igo6.
88,705 1,153 2,488 95,646
9,704
1,210,713
22,726
2,283,066
17,323
1,790,165
16
731
82
8,119
X,II2
70,880
623
40,578
545
33,600
C76
c 5,180
C196
c 13,698
c^l
c 6,416
c 2,922
c 102,311
c 797
c 35,076
«55
C78I
C48
c 1,823
56,318
5,603,137
880
100,000
75
4,000
219
18,607
14
240
1,188 122,847
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426 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE I. — Ministers, Churches, and CoionTNi
For the
In the United
DKNOKINATIONS. MiiiiaUn. duircbet.
Brethren (Plymouth):
1. Brethren (I.) 109
2. Brethren (II.) 88
3. Brethren (in.) 86
4. Brethren (IV.) 31
Total (Plymouth) Brethren 314
Brethren (River):
1. Brethren in Christ 152 78
2. Old Order, or Yorker 7 8
3. United Zion's Children 20 25
Total (River) Brethren 179 iii
Buddhists:
1. Chinese Temples 47
2. Japanese Temples (i)
Total Buddhists 47
Cathouc Apostouc:
1. Catholic Apostolic 95 10
2. New Apostolic
Total Catholic Apostolic 95 10
Cathoucs, Eastern Orthodox:
1. Armenian Apostolic 15 21
2. Russian Orthodox 40 31
3. Greek Orthodox S S
4. Syrian Orthodox (2)
5. Servian Orthodox (2)
6. Roumanian Orthodox (2)
7. Bulgarian Orthodox (2)
Total Eastern Orthodox 60 57
(x) Not in existence in 1890. Moit of the templet in CtUfoniU.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES,
427
CANTS IN THE UNITED STATES Only. — Continued.
Year zgoo.
SUtesOnly.
For the Year zgio.
In the United SUtea Only.
Churches. Communicants.
2,289
2,419
1,235
718
6,661
^134
c 128
cSi
c6o
403
c 2,933
c 4,752
c 1,724
0 1,157
10,566
4,000
214
525
4,739
174
c 24
C 22
220
65
C9
C28
102
3,675
C423
C749
4,847
1,491
1,491
C I
C62
c 14
C 12
c 3,165
15
74
3,165
CI4
C II
c 2,907
c 19
CI3
c 2,020
33
24
4,927
8,500
14
21
50,000
40,000
no
121
60,000
5,000
71
62
160,000
21
18
40,000
9
10
35,000
5
5
20,000
3
233
3
240
20,000
53,500
385,000
(a) Introduced in recent years t^r immigtmtioo.
c Census of 1906.
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428 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I. — Ministers, Chtt&ches, and ComnTNi
Cathoucs, Western:
I. Roman Catholic 11,848
3. Polish National Catholic
3. Reformed Catholic
4. Old Catholic (i)
Total Western Catholics.
Christadelphians
Christians (2)
Christian Catholic (Dowie) ,
Christian Missionary Association (i)
Christian Scientists
Christian Union
Churches of God (Winnebrennerian)
Churches op the Living God (Colored) (3):
1. Christian Workers for Friendship
2. Apostolic
3. Church of Christ in God
Total Churches of the Living God. . .
Churches of the New Jerusalem:
General Convention
General Church (4)
I.
Total New Jerusalem Churches.
Communistic SoaETiEs:
1. Shakers
2. Amana
3. Harmony (i)
4. Separatists (i)
$. Altruists (i)
6. Church Triumphant(Roreshan Ecclesia) (i )
7. Christian Commonwealth (i)
Total Communists
(x) Dissolved.
For the
In the United
Ministen.
Chuidies.
11,848
6
12,263
18
6
3
5
11,876
12,292
....
^Z
1,151
1,517
55
50
10
13
940
183
460
470
294
580
143 *73
143 173
15
7
I
I
I
5
I
31
(3) Fonneriy reported in two bnnchct.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
429
CANTS IN THE Umited STATES Only. — Continued,
Year igoa
For the Year 19x0.
SutnOnbr.
In the United Statet Only.
Commgnimirft
MioiateiB.
Onuches.
Communicants.
8,690,658
17,084
13,461
12,425,947
C24
C24
c 15,473
1,500
7
6
2,100
42s
8,712,583
i7,"S
13,491
12,443,520
1,277
• • . •
C70
c 1,412
109,278
993
1,329
87,478
40,000
CSS
CI7
c 5,865
754
....
....
48,930
2,208
1,104
85,096
18,214
^295
^237
c 13,905
38,000
509
595
41,475
csi
C44
c 2,676
C30
^15
C752
C20
eg
C858
lOI
68
4,286
7,^79
7,^79
109
23
132
?38
14
152
8,500
814
9,314
1,650 CIS CS16
1,600 c 7 c 1,756
250
200
25
205
80
4,010 22 2,272
(3) Oiganiaed since zSgQ. (4) Oiianiaed in 1897, as result of division. c Census o£ 2906.
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430 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I.— MiNiSTEES, Chusches, and CoionTNi
For the
In the United
DXMOHnuxiOllS. MiniBteis. Churches.
CONGEEGATIONALISTS 5,625 5,624
Disciples of Cheist:
1. Disciples of Chiist 6,348 10,528
2. Churches of Christ (i)
Total Disciples of Chiist ' 6,348 10,528
Evangelical Bodies:
1, Evangelical Association 877 1,617
2. United Evangelical Church 478 985
Total Evangelical bodies i}355 2,602
Faith Associations: (2)
1. Apostolic Faith Movement
2. Peniel Missions , ....
3. Metropolitan Church Association
4. Hepzibah Faith Association
5. Missionary Church Association
6. Heavenly Recruit Church
7. Apostolic Christian Church
8. Christian Congregation
9. Voluntary Missionary Society (Colored)
Total Faith Associations
Free Christian Zion Chtjkch (Colored) (3),
Friends:
1. Orthodox
2. "fficksite"
3. "Wilburite"
4. Primitive
Total Friends
(i) Not reported separately in x8go or igoo. A division.
1,279
830
"5
201
38
53
II
9
1,443
1,093
(2) AU reported since 190a
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES,
431
CANTS IN THE UNITED STATES OnLY .—Continued,
Year xgoo.
States Only.
Miniftters.
For the Year xgxo.
In the United Sutes Only.
Churches.
Communicanta.
631,360
6,04s
6,050
735,400
1,149,982
5,970
c 2,100
10,830
2,649
1,308,116
c 156,658
1,149,982
8,070
13,479
1,464,774
96,34s
60,993
157,338
980
509
1,489
i,6S7
997
2,654
108,666
73,399
182,065
. . . .
c6
C538
C30
Cll
^703
c 29
c6
C466
C36
c 10
<;293
^35
C32
c 1,256
^55
C27
C938
c 19
<;42
^4,558
C26
eg
<^395
C II
CZ
C42S
241
146
9,572
C20
CIS
c 1,835
92,468
1,302
830
100,072
21,992
97
211
19,595
4,468
C47
C48
c 3,880
232
c 10
c8
c 171
119,160 1,456 1,097 123,718
(3) Ofganiied in 1895 by wHhdrawab from MethodiitaiKl Baptist bodies. c Census of 1906.
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432 REUGJOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE I.— Ministers, Chtt&ches, and Cohmuni
For the
In the United
mnicunwAiKMiS. Muiisten. Charchca.
FSIENDS OF THE TeMPLE 4 4
German Evangelical Protestant 45 55
German Evangelical Synod 909 1,129
Jewish Congregations (i) 301 570
Latter-Day Saints:
1. Utah Branch 700 796
2. Reorganized 1,200 600
Total Latter-Day Saints 1,900 1,396
Lutherans:
1. General Synod 1,216 1,576
2. United Synod, South 214 390
3. General Council 1,205 i»882
4. Synodical Conference 2,029 2,650
5. United Norwegian 361 1,121
Independent Synods.
6. Ohio 457 604
7. Buffalo 26 36
8. Hauge's 95 212
9. Eielsen's 9 52
10. Texas 11 14
11. Iowa 433 824
12. Norwegian 252 739
13. Michigan (3) 53 78
14. Danish in America 47 66
15. Icelandic 8 26
16. Immanuel 45 50
17. Suomai (Finnish) 11 46
18. Finnish Apostolic U)
19. Finnish National (4)
20. Norwegian Free 112 300
21. Danish United 88 150
22. Slovakian (4)
23. Church of the Lutheran Brethren (4)
24. Jehovah 6 6
Independent Congregations 85 200
Total Lutherans 6,763 11,022
(i) Reported in 1890 in two bnmdMS. (2) Tnrlqding only betds of Camilies.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES, 433
CANTS IN THE UNITED STATES OnLY.— Cimitnil^.
Year 1900.
States Only.
CommuDicaati.
340
36,500
203,574
143,000 (2)
300,000
343,824
199,589
38,639
356,401
581,029
130,000
77,362
5,000
12,540
2,800
1,700
74,058
66,927
9,547
10,000
5»559
6,1x8
11,048
38,000
8,500
350
25,000
1,660,167 8,659 13,802 2,243,486
(3) DiHolved. (4) Oiganbed unce 1900. c Census of 1906.
For the Year igzo.
In the United States Only.
Ministm.
Chttiches.
Communicants.
CZ
C2
<^376
<?59
c66
C 34,704
1,024
1,314
236,615
ci,o84
c 1,769
143,000(2)
1,223
780
350,000
1,260
570
50,650
2,483
1,350
400,650
1,333
1,785
302,440
248
468
48,921
1,507
2,298
459,224
2,713
3,356
766,281
550
1,464
161,964
585
784
127,430
28
42
5,200
150
347
36,357
6
26
1,130
21
32
2,800
527
940
106,593
382
1,000
100,000
'58
119
13,052
13
39
4,700
12
6
2,500
32
170
17,500
62
73
11,000
20
40
6,000
175
375
20,000
114
176
11,994
17
30
9,500
12
16
1,800
9
II
1,100
85
205
26,000
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434 RBLIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I. — Ministers, Chukches, akd Commumi
For the
DBHomNATiORS. In the United
ScAia)iNAViAN Evangelical Bodies: Min»ter». aunhes.
1. Swedish Evangelical Mission Covenant (i) 265 270
2. Swedish Evangelical Free Mission
3. Norwegian Evangelical Free
Total Scandinavian Evangelical bodies 265 270
Mennonites:
1. Mennonite 418 288
2. Bruederhoef 9 $
3. Amish 265 124
4. Old Amish 75 25
5. Apostolic (2) 2 3
6. Reformed 43 34
7. General Conference 128 76
8. Church of God in Christ 18 18
9. Old (Wisler) 17 15
10. Bundes Conference 41 16
11. Defenceless 20 11
12. Brethren in Christ 76 59
Separate Conferences (two) __lii li:
Total Mennonites 1,112 673
Methodist:
1. Methodist Episcopal 16,791 26,232
2. Union American Methodist Episcopal. ... 125 155
3. African Methodist Episcopal SfiS^ 5i630
4. African Union Methodist Protestant 106 88
5. African Methodist Episcopal Zion 3»i55 ii9o6
6. Methodist Protestant I1629 2,394
7. Wesleyan Methodist 595 506
8. Methodist Episcopal, South 5^989 I4>2i2
9. Congregational Methodist 325 330
10. Congregational Methodist (Colored) (2)... 5 5
11. New Congregational Methodist 192 366
12. Zion Union Apostolic 30 27
13. Colored Methodist Episcopal 2,061 1,433
14. Primitive 74 90
1$. Free 922 944
16. Reformed Methodist Union Episcopal (3)
17. Independent Methodist 8 14
18. Evangelist Missionary (2) 48 13
Total Methodists 37»907 S4»34S
(I) Not reported in 1S90. (a) Dissolved. (3) Result of secessioii in the
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
435
CANTS IN THE UNITED STATES OnLY. — CofUinued.
Year z9oa
For the Year igio.
Sutes Only.
In the United Statm Only
Communicants.
Ministen.
Chuiches.
^_jjQimm^ Di'tntn t
30,000
377
290
40,000
151
133
18,000
65
593
150
573
4,000
30,000
62,000
22,443
C346
c 220
e 18,674
3S2
eg
^8
c2^s
13,051
c 131
CS7
e 7,640
2,438
c 141
CArt
« 5,043
209
....
....
1,680
C34
<?34
e 2,079
io,39S
«i43
C90
e 11,661
471
C17
£i8
C562
610
C18
eg
C655
2,950
cs6
C19
c 2,533
1,176
c 26
€14
C967
2,953
C70
c68
1:2,801
^35
1,006
e 21
604
c 1,908
58,728
54,798
2,746,191
18,280
28,436
3,186,862
15,500
138
25s
18,500
675,462
6,353
5,527
500,000
3,563
200
125
4,000
536,271
3,488
3,298
547,216
183,714
i»393
2,432
188,437
17,201
598
571
19,178
1,468,390
6,611
16,332
1,851,149
20,000
337
333
15,529
319
....
4,000
C59
c^S
c 1,782
2,346
^33
C45
c 3,059
204,972
2,901
2,857
234,721
6,549
74
lOI
7,346
27,292
1,119
1,163
32,112
C40
C58
c 4,000
2,569
2
2
1,161
2,010
....
5,916,349
41,626
61,570
6,615,052
South from African Methodist Episcopd Church in 1885. c Census of i<
906.
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436 KEUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I.— MnasTEXS, Chubches, and ComcuNi
Fortbe
la the United
pmomWAiiom. IGaSiteB. Chnicbo.
Moravian Bodies:
1. Moravian 117 122
2. Union Bohemians and Moravians (i) . . . .
Total Moravian Bodies 117 122
NON-SECTAKIAN BiBLE FAITH CHUECHES (2)
Pentecostal Bodies:
1. Pentecostal Church (3)
2. Other Pentecostal Associations
Total Pentecostal Bodies
Peesbyterians:
1. Northern 7ii7o 7,459
2. Cumberland (4) 1,596 2,957
3. Cumberland (Colored) 450 400
4. Welsh Calvinistic 89 158
5. United 918 911
6. Southern 1,461 2,959
7. Associate 12 31
8. Associate Reformed, South 104 131
9. Reformed (Synod) 124 113
10. Reformed (General S3mod) 33 36
11. Reformed (Covenanted) i i
12. Reformed in U. S. and Canada i i
Total Presbyterians ii>959 I5>i57
Protestant Episcopal:
1. Protestant Episcopal 4,811 6,421
2. Reformed Episcopal 100 78
Total Protestant Episcopal 4,911 6,499
Reformed:
1. Reformed (Dutch) 690 619
2. Reformed (German) 1,074 1,653
3. Christian Reformed 96 145
4. Hungarian Reformed (5)
Total Reformed 1,860 2,417
(i) Oiganiied in Tens in 1903 by immigrants. (a) Not reported in xSga
(3) Outcome of union of various Holiness associations at ck»e of last centuiy.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
437
CANTS IN THE UNITED STATES Only. — Continued.
Year 1900.
SutesOaly.
For the Year igxo.
y-
In the United States Only.
Comnraidcsnts.
Mioiiten.
Gfaofchea.
Pji^mm^ini^ii
14,817
133
121
17,940
^3
136
^^5
136
C77I
14,817
18,711
C50
C204
c 6,396
....
700
428
20,000
CII5
81S
C30
458
c 1,420
21,420
983,433
8,980
9,926
1,328,714
180,192
917
1,570
115,000
30,000
C37S
c 196
c 18,066
12,152
91
148
13,759
"5,901
1,012
990
135,010
225,890
1,694
3,324
281,920
i,oS3
c 12
C 22
C786
",344
106
142
14,017
9,790
136
"5
9.455
5,000
17
19
3,400
37
....
I
40
608
2
3
598
1,575,400
13,342
16,456
1,920,765
710,356
5,286
7,572
928,780
9,282
94
80
9,610
719,638
5,380
7,652
938,390
107,594
728
684
"6,815
242,831
1,226
1,730
297,116
18,096
138
189
29,006
ctS
c 16
c 5,253
368,521
2,110
2,619
448,190
(4) Leases due to union in 1906 with Northern Presbyterian Qiurch.
(5) Oiganisfd in 1904 by immigranta £xom Hungary. c Census of 1906.
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438 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE I. — Ministers, Churches/ and Communi
For the
In the UniLed
MMOMiMAiiOMS. MiaistciB. Cfauidia.
Salvationists:
1. Salvation Army 2,361 663
2. American Salvation Army (i)
Total Salvationists 2,361 663
SCHW£NX?ELDERS 3 4
Social Brethren 17 20
Society for Ethical Culture 5
Spiritualists .... 334
Theosophical Society 122
Unitarians 544 453
United Brethren:
1. United Brethren 1,833 4>i66
2. United Brethren (Old Constitution) 619 786
Total United Brethren 2,452 4,952
Universalists 730 770
Independent Congregations 54 156
Grand Total 143,401 190,805
TABLE n.—
For the
In the United
DXHOiONATiONS. Ministeis.
Adventists (6 bodies) 1,505
Baptists (15 bodies in 1910) 34,77i
Brethren (Dunkards) (4 bodies) 2,988
Brethren (Plymouth) (4 bodies)
Brethren (River) (3 bodies) 179
Buddhists (2 bodies in 1910)
Catholic Apostolic (2 bodies in 1910) ^ 95
Catholic, Eastern Orthodox (7 bodies in 1910) 60
Catholic, Western (3 bodies in 1910) 11,876
Christaddphians
Christians 1,151
Christian Catholic (Dowie) 55
(i) Not reported in xSgo.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES,
439
CANTS IN THE UNITED STATES Only. — Continued.
Year zooo.
SUtes Only.
Ministers.
For the Year 19x0.
In the United States Only.
Chuxcbea. Communicantai
19,490
3,137
896
25,839
C59
3,196
c 20
916
C436
19,490
26,27s
306
6
8
850
913
CIS
C17
c 1,262
1,300
7
6
2,450
45,030
....
1,000
150,000
3,000
....
114
3,100
71,000
558
482
70,542
239,639
26,296
265,935
52,739
14,126
27,383,804
1,890
303
2,193
730
267
170,499
3,721
545
4,266
881
879
283,682
19,637
303,319
52,150
48,673
218,507 35,145,296
Summary.
Year 1900.
States Only.
Chiucbes.
2,286
50,431
1,081
314
III
47
10
57
12,292
63
1,517
50
« Census oC 1906.
For the Year i9xa
In the United States Only.
Chuiches. Owamunicants
88,705
1,153
2,488
95,646
4,533,252
41,365
56,318
5,603,137
112,194
3,429
1,188
122,847
6,661
403
10,566
4,739
220
102
4,847
15
74
3,165
1,491
33
24
4,927
53,500
233
240
385,000
8,712,583
17,115
13,491
12,443,520
1,277
....
cyo
€ 1,412
109,278
993
1,329
87,478
40,000
35
17
5,86s
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440 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE n,—
Christian Missionary Association lo
Christian Scientists 940
Christian Union 183
Church of God (Winnebrennerian) 460
Churches of the Living God (3 bodies)
Churches of the New Jerusalem (2 bodies in 1910) .... 143
Communistic Societies (2 bodies in 1910)
Congregationalists 5,625
Disciples of Christ (2 bodies in 1910) 6,348
Evangelical bodies (2 bodies) 1,355
Faith Associations (9 bodies)
Free Christian Zion Church
Friends (4 bodies) 1,443
Friends of the Temple 4
German Evangelical Protestant 45
German Evangelical Synod 909
E«rish Congregations 301
tter-Day Saints (2 bodies) 1,900
Lutherans (24 bodies in 19x0) 6,763
Scandinavian Evangelical (3 bodies in 19x0) 265
Mennonites (ix bodies in 1910) 1,112
Methodists (17 bodies in 1910) 37,907
Moravians (2 bodies in 19x0) 117
Non-sectarian Bible Faith Churches
Pentecostal bodies (all bodies)
Presbyterians (12 bodies) iii9S9
Protestant Episcopal (2 bodies) 4,911
Reformed (4 bodies in 19x0) 1,860
Salvationists (2 bodies in 19x0) 2,36x
Schwenkfelders 3
Social Brethren 17
Society for Ethical Culture
Spiritualists ....
Theosophical Society
Unitarians 544
United Brethren (2 bodies) 2,452
Universalists 730
Independent Congregations 54
Total X43i4oi
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
441
SUMMAKY.— Ctfll/fflfied.
Year 1900.
For the Yew
19x0.
SUtesOnly.
In the United States Only.
Churches.
Communicaiits.
Minbten.
Churches.
Communieants.
13
754
....
....
470
48,930
2,208
1,104
85,096
294
18,214
295
237
13,905
580
38,000
509
595
41,475
lOI
68
4,286
173
7,679
132
152
9,314
31
4,010
....
22
2,272
5,624
631,360
6,045
6,050
735,400
10,528
1,149,982
8,070
13,479
1,464,774
2,602
157,338
1,489
2,654
182,06s
241
146
9,572
....
....
20
15
1,83s
1,093
119,160
1,456
1,097
123,718
4
340
3
2
376
55
36,500
59
66
34,704
1,219
203,574
1,024
1,314
236,615
570
143,000
1,084
1,769
143,000
1,396
343,824
2,483
1,350
400,650
11,022
1,660,167
8,659
13,802
2,243,486
270
30,000
593
573
62,000
673
58,728
1,006
604
54,798
54,345
5,916,349
41,626
61,570
6,615,052
122
14,817
136
136
i8,7ii
. • . >
50
204
6,396
....
....
815
458
21,420
15,157
1,575,400
13,342
16,456
1,920,765
6,499
719,638
5,380
7,652
938,390
2,417
368,521
2,110
2,619
448,190
663
19,490
3,196
916
26,27s
4
306
6
8
850
20
913
15
'I
1,262
5
1,300
7
6
2,450
334
45,030
....
1,000
150,000
122
3,000
....
114
3,100
453
71,000
558
482
70,542
4,952
265,935
2,193
4,266
303,319
770
52,739
730
881
52,150
156
14,126
267
879
48,673
190,805 27,383,804 170,499 218,507 3S,245»296
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442 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE in. — Order op all Denoionations according
TO Number of Coiocunicants, 1910.
DXNO^ONATioin. Coauniiiiicaiits.
1. Roman Catholic 12^25,947
2. Methodist Episcopal 3,186,862
3. Southern Baptist 2,283,066
4. Methodist Episcopal, South 1,851,149
5. Colored Baptist 1,790,165
6. Northern Presbyterian 1,328,714
7. Disciples of Christ 1,308,116
8. Northern Baptists 1,210,713
9. Protestant Episcopal 928,780
10. Lutheran Synodiod Conference 766,281
11. Congregational 73S,400
12. African Methodist Episcopal Zion 547»2i6
13. African Methodist Episcopal 500,000
14. Lutheran General Council 459)224
15. Latter-Day Saints, Utah 350,000
16. Lutheran General Synod 302,440
17. Reformed (German) 297,116
18. United Brethren 283,682
19. Southern Presbyterian 281,920
20. German Evangelical Synod 236,615
21. Colored Methodist Episcopal 2349721
22. Methodist Protestant i8Si437
23. Lutheran United Norwegian 161,964
24. Greek Orthodox 160,000
25. Churches of Christ, Disciple 156,658
26. Spiritualist 150,000
27. Jewish i43»ooo
28. United Presybterian i35,oio
29. Lutheran Synod of Ohio 127,430
30. Reformed (Dutch) 116,815
31. Cumberland Presbyterian ii5iOoo
32. Evangelical Association 108,666
33. Lutheran Synod of Iowa 106,593
34. Primitive Baptist 102,311
35. Orthodox Friends 100,072
36. Conservative Brethren, Dunkard 100,000
37. Lutheran Norwegian 100,000
38. Christian 87,478
39. Christian Science 85,096
40. United Evangelical 73»399
41. Free Baptist 70,880
42. Unitarian. 70,542
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES, 443
TABLE in. — OSDER OF ALL DENOMINATIONS ACCORDING TO
Number of Communicants, 1910. — Continued.
OENOiONATiONS. Commttnicants.
43. Seventh-Day Adventist 65,122
44. Russian Orthodox 60,000
45. Universalist 52,150
46. Latter-Day Saints, Reorganized 50,650
47. Armenian Apostolic 50,000
48. Lutheran United Synod, South 48,921
49. Church of God (Winnebrennerian) 41 ,47 5
50. Freewill Baptist 40,578
51. Syrian Orthodox 40,000
53. Swedish Evangelical Mission Covenant 40,000
53. Lutheran Hauge's Synod 36,357
54. Primitive Baptist, Colored 35,076
55. Servian Orthodox 35}000
56. German Evangelical Protestant 34y704
57. General Baptist 33)6oo
58. Free Methodist 32,112
59. Christian Reformed 29,006
60. Advent Christian 26,799
61. Salvation Army 25,839
62. Roumanian Orthodox 20,000
63. Bulgarian Orthodox 20,000
64. Pentecostal Church 20,000
65. Lutheran Norwegian Free 20,000
66. United Brethren (O. C.) 19,637
67. Hicksite Friends ^9,595
68. Wesleyan Methodist 19,178
69. Mennonite 18,674
70. Progressive Brethren, Dunkard 18,607
71. Union American Methodist Episcopal 18,500
72. Cumberland Presbyterian (Colored) 18,066
73. Swedish Evangelical Free Mission 18,000
74. Moravian 17,940
75. Lutheran Suomai Synod 17,500
76. Congregational Methodist 15,529
77. Poli^ National Catholic i5,473
78. Associate Reformed Synod, South 14,017
79. Christian Union 13,905
80. Welsh Calvinistic Presbyterian 13, 759
81. United Baptist 13,698
82. Lutheran Danish in America 13,052
83. Lutheran Danish United ii,994
84. General Conference, Mennonite 11,661
85. Lutheran Finnish Apostolic 11,000
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444 RELIC JOVS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE III. — Order of all Denominations acxx>rding to
Number of Communicants, 1910. — CotUinwtd.
86. Reformed Episcopal 9,610
87. Lutheran Slovakian Synod 9i5oo
88. Reformed Presbyterian (Synod) 9,455
89. General Convention, New Jerusalem 8,500
90. Seventh-Day Baptist 8,1 19
91. Amish, Mennonite 7,640
92. Primitive Methodist 7,346
93. Baptist Church of Christ 6,416
94. Non-sectarian Bible Faith 6,396
95. Lutheran Finnic National Synod 6,000
96. Christian Catholic (Dowie) 5,865
97. Hungarian Reformed 5,253
98. Lutheran Buffalo Synod 5,200
99. Separate Baptist 5,180
00. Old Amish, Mennonite 5,043
01. Plymouth Brethren II 4»7S2
02. Lutheran Icelandic Synod 4i7oo
03. Apostolic Christian, Faith 4,558
04. Norwegian Evangelical Free 4,000
05. Old Order Brethren, Dunkard 4,000
06. Reformed Methodist Union Episcopal 4,000
07. African Union Methodist Protestant 4,000
08. Wilburite Friends 3,880
09. Brethren in Christ (River) 3,675
10. Reformed Presbyterian (General Synod) 3,400
11. Japanese Buddhists 3,165
12. Theosophists 3,100
13. Zion Union Apostolic, Methodist 3,059
14. Plymouth Brethren I 2,933
15. Catholic Apostolic 2,907
16. Brethren in Christ, Mennonite 2,801
17. Lutheran Texas Synod 2,800
18. Christian Workers for Friendship 2,676
19. Bundes Conference, Mennonite 2,533
20. Lutheran Immanud Synod 2,500
21. Ethical Culture Society 2,450
22. Churches of God in Jesus Christ, Adventist 2,124
23. Reformed Catholic 2,100
24. Reformed Mennonite 2,079
25. New Apostolic 2,020
26. Free Christian Zion Church (Colored) 1,835
27. Church of God and Saints of Christ (Colored). . . 1,823
28. Lutheran Brethren 1,800
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES, 445
' TABLE ni.— Okder of all Denominations according to
Number op Communicants, igio,^^orUinued.
DmoMmumoms. Communicftnts.
139. New Congregational Methodist i)783
130. Amana Society i»7S6
131. Plymouth Brethren III 1J24
132. Christadelphian *. i>4i3
133. Social Brethren 1,262
134. Missionary Church Association, Faith i»256
135. Independent Methodist 1,161
136. Plymouth Brethren IV i,iS7
137. Lutheran Eielsen's Synod 1,130
138. Lutheran Jehovah Synod 1,100
139. Defenceless Mennonites 967
140. Heavenly Recruit 938
141. Church of Christ in God (Colored) 858
142. Schwenkfelders 850
143. General Church, New Jerusalem 814
144. Associate Presbyterian 786
145. Old Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit Baptist 781
146. Bohemian and Moravian Brethren 771
147. Apostolic, Living God 752
148. United Zion's Children (River) 749
149. Six-Prindple Baptist 731
150. Peniel Missions, Faith 703
151. Old Mennonites 655
152. Church of God, Adventist 61 1
153. Reformed Presbyterian in U. S. and Canada 598
154. Church of God in Christ, Mennonite 562
155. Apostolic, Faith 538
156. Shaker 516
157. Life and Advent Union, Adventist 509
158. Evangelical Adventist 481
159. Metropolitan Church Association, Faith 466
160. American Salvation Army 436
161. Voluntary Missionary Association (Colored) 425
162. Old Order or Yorker (River) 423
163. Christian Congregation, Faith 395
164. Friends of the Temple 376
165. Hepzibah Faith 293
166. Bruederhoef, Mennonite, Faith 275
167. Seventh-Day German, Dunkard 240
168. Primitive Friends 171
169. Reformed Presb)rterian Covenanted 40
170. Chinese Buddhists
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446 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IV —Net
Gains in Ten Yean
DmonDfATlONS. MinJstCfB. Churches.
Adventists:
1. Evangelical :
2. Advent Christians 29 30
3. Seventh-Day 102 499
4. Church of God
5. Life and Advent Union 10
6. Churches of God in Jesus Christ
Total 141 529
Baptists:
X. Regular (North) 850 1,388
2. Regular (South) 3,603 3,431
3. Regular (Colored) 4,388 2,253
4. Six- Principle dt dt
5. Seventh-Day 9 di\
6. Free d^i dt\
7. Freewill 2
8. General 152 24
9. Separate 94 79
10. United
11. Baptist Church of Christ
12. Primitive 90 308
13. Primitive (Colored)
14. Old Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit Predestinarian
15. Church of God and Saints of Christ
(Colored)
Total 9,12$ 7402
Brethren (Dunkards or Dunkers):
1. Conservative 990 130
2. Old Order J 97 rf 55
3. Progressive 7 17
4. Seventh-Day (German)
Total 900 92
^Dccrcaae.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES. 447
Gains in Two Decades.
Ending in 1000. Gtins in Ten Yaan Ending in tgia
i-A
i\i
d666
684
^384
d6o
299
35.548
131
332
10,583
13
d9
d36
1,982
^48
• di6
rf 2,491
^38
d$$
d7A&
38,214 (1 352 202 6,941
199,207
663
409
2x1,056
358,919
1,973
3,057
644,081
245,595
2,781
2,537
195,581
0 109
2
4
J 97
d4»
J 26
J 13
^976
d 1,363
^250
J 410
d 15,655
136
484
.456
28,578
3413
66
122
8,825
4,880
J 13
d 27
d 1,299
■ > . .
235
dS
489
....
19
dS9
d 1,838
4,653
^630
J608
d 23,689
1,480
797
35,076
J 265
(I4X8
d 12,070
75
48
1,823
815,283 6,594 5,857 1,069,885
33,899
394
n
5,000
0411
88
4,9"
^45
74
5,6^7
4
8
46
38,399 441 107 10,653
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448 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IV.— Net Gains in
Gains in Ten Yeus
DBfOimfATioiis. Mtnisten. Churches.
Brethren (Plymouth):
1. Brethren I
2. Brethren II
3. Brethren III
4. Brethren IV
Total
Brethren (River):
1. Brethren in Christ 24
2. Old Order or Yorker
3. United Zion's Children
Total 24
Buddhists:
1. Chinese Temples. .
2. Japanese Temples.
Catholic Apostolic:
1. Catholic Apostolic
2. New Apostolic
Total
Catholics, Eastern Orthodox:
1. Armenian Apostolic
2. Russian Orthodox
3. Greek Orthodox
4. Syrian Orthodox
5. Servian Orthodox
6. Roumanian Orthodox
7. Bulgarian Orthodox
8
IS
27
19
4
4
Total 39 38
J Decrease.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
449
Two Decades.— <70ii/mifeJ.
GtiBi in Ten Yean Ending in xgxa
liinisten. Chiudwi. CoBunnnicanU
....
as
644
. • . •
40
2,333
....
^S
489
—
29
439
89
3,90s
1,3"
1,312
22
ii3
^325
17
I
209
2
3
224
41
i9
108
97
97
I
14
IS
12
3,i6s
IS
27
3,i6s
19
I
13
1,416
2,020
d(>i
14
3,436
8,165
Jx
....
4i,Soo
26,496
70
90
20,000
4,900
66
S7
iSS,ooo
....
21
18
40,000
. . '. .
9
10
3S,ooo
5
5
20,000
—
3
3
20,000
39,561
173
183
331,500
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450 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IV.— Net Gains m
Gum in Tea Yean
Cathoucs, Weste&n:
X. Roman Catholic
Polish National Catholic.
Reformed Catholic
Old Catholic
Total
2.
4.
Chsistadelphians
Christians
Christian Catholic (Dowie)
Christian Missionary Association —
Christian Scientists
Christian Union
Churches op God (Winnebrennerian).
Churches of the Living God (Colored):
1. Christian Workers for Friendship
2. Apostolic
3. Church of Christ in God
Total
Church Triumphant (Schweinturth} .
Churches of the New Jerusalem:
1. General Convention
2. General Church
Total
24
"24
Communistic Societies:
I. Shakers
Amana
Harmony ,
Separatists ,
New Icaria
Altruists ,
Adonai Shomo ,
Church Triumphant (Koreshan Ecclesia).
Christian Commonweialth ,
Total
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9-
2,682
d2
2
2,018
18
d2
I
2,701
2,03s
d28^
55
93
50
914
249
'(I62
lOI
d 12
19
19
dl
d'l
I
dl
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES,
451
Two Decades.— C<w/>iified.
Endiag in tgoa
GaiiM in Ten Yaan Ending in toia
2,448,391
5,236 1,198
3,735,289
20,000
5 6
^4,527
500
]
[
600
d 240
dl ds
^425
2,468,651
5,239 1,199
3,730,937
5,556
J 158 diSS
135
(f 21,800
40,000
dao dss
^34,135
....
dio J 13
^754
40,206
1,268 634
36,166
....
112 d 57
^^ 4,309
15,489
49 IS
3,475
51
[ 44
2,676
....
30 IS
752
....
20 9
loi 68
858
....
4,286
i384
...
....
584
^34 ^35
821
23 14
dll d21
814
S84
1,635
d78
d 1,134
....
....
156
....
. . •
dt
^250
....
. . . «
di
d200
d2\
• . .
....
...
di
das
d 20
...
• . . .
....
....
i^
d20S
80
di
dSo
^39
• • •
do
d 1,738
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452 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IV.— Net Gains in
Gains in Ten Yeaa
DiMOKDUiiOMS. Ministers. Churches.
congregationalists 5^7 75^
Disciples of Christ:
1. Disciples of Christ 2,57s 3*282
2. Churches of Christ
Total 2,575 3,282
EVANGEUCAL BODIES :
1. Evangelical Association d 358 d 693
2. United Evangelical Church 478 985
Total 120 292
Faith Associations:
1. Apostolic Faith Movement
2. Peniel Missions
3. Metropolitan Church Association
4. Hepzibah Faith Association
5. Missionary Church Association
6. Heavenly Recruit Church
7. Apostolic Christian Church
8. Christian Congregation
9. Voluntary Missionary Society (Colored)
Total
Free Christian Zion Church (Colored)
Friends:
1. Orthodox 166 36
2. "Hicksite"
3. "Wilburite" i
4. Primitive
Total 166 37
Friends of the Temple
German Evangelical Protestant i 3
4 Decrease.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES, 453
Two Decades.— C(w<«n«e(f.
Eodiiig in zgoo. Gains in Ten Yean Ending in 19x0.
Communicants. Ministeis. Churches. Communicants.
118,589 420 426 104,040
508,931 J 378 302 158,134
2,100 2,649 156,658
508,931
1,722
2,951
314,792
(i 36,968
103
40
12,321
60,993
31 •
12
12,406
24,025
134
52
24,727
6
538
....
30
II
703
29
6
466
....
36
10
293
....
35
32
1,256
....
55
27
938
....
19
42
4,558
....
26
9
395
—
II
3
146
425
241
9,572
—
20
15
1,835
11,813
23
7,604
d\%
10
^ 2,397
139
9
^5
(I588
Ji
di
dt\
",952 13 4 4,558
d\ da 36
344 14 " rf 1,796
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454 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE IV.— Net Gains «
Gtim in Ten Tcib
German Evangeucal Synod 229 259
Jewish Congeegations loi 37
Lattee-Day Saints:
1. Utah branch 157 371
2. Reorganized branch d 300 169
Total rf 143 540
Lutherans:
1. General Synod 250 152
2. United Synod, South 13 d2\
3. General Council 52 d 162
4. Synodical Conference 747 716
$. United Norwegian 252 d i
Independent Synods:
6. Ohio 160 183
7. Buffalo 6 9
8. Hauge's 37 37
9. Eielsen's (i) 9 52
10. Texas (i) 11 14
11. Iowa (2) 433 824
12. Norwegian 58 250
13. Michigan (3) 16 13
14. Danish in ^erica ^61 i 65
15. Icelandic 7 13
16. Immanuel 24 29
17. German Augsburg (4) d 49 J 23
18. Suomai, Finnish 3 3s
19. Finnish Apostolic (5)
20. Finnish National (5)
21. Norwegian Free 112 300
22. Danish United 48 100
23. Slovakian (5)
24. Church of the Lutheran Brethren (5)
25. Jehovah 6 6
Independent Congregations 38 d^x
Total 2,172 2,427
d DeCTCMe. (x) Not in ODiUnoe in i8go. (a) Indaded in Geneal Goandl in x8go.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
455
Two Decades.—
'Coniinued,
Gains in Ten Yean Ending in 19x0.
Commiiiiictiits.
Ministers. Churches. Communicants.
16,142
"5 185 33,041
12,504
783 1,199
155,648
523 d 16 50,000
22,051
60 rf 30 6,826
177,699
583 d 46 56,826
34,949
117 209 102,851
1,182
34 78 10,282
31,555
302 416 102,823
223,876
684 706 185,252
10,028
189 343 31,964
7,857
128 180 50,068
758
2 6 200
d 2,190
55 135 23,817
2,800
a 3 J 26 d 1,670
1,700
10 18 1,100
74,058
94 "6 32,535
11,475
130 261 33,073
^ 1,935
^53 ^78 <^ 9,547
J 181
" 53 3,052
3,568
5 13 <^ 859
. 538
<^ 33 rf 44 ^ 3,618
J 7,010
••.• •..• •...
9,663
21 124 6,452
....
62 73 11,000
....
20 40 6,000
38,000
63 75 d 18,000
S,oo7
26 26 3,494
....
17 30 9,500
....
12 x6 1,800
350
3 5 750
^ 16,953
5 1,000
429,09s
1,896 2,780 583,319
<3) Dissolved after zqoo.
(4) DiiK>lved before igooL (s) New bodies.
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4S6 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE IV.— Net Gains in
DmoHDfAiiONS. Gains in Ten Yean
Scandinavian Evangeucal Bodies: Miniatas. Chttrcba.
I. Swedish Evangelical Mission Covenant (i). . 265 270
3. Swedish Evangelical Free Mission (i)
3. Norwegian Evangelical Free (2)
Total 265 270
Menngnites:
1. Mennonite 82 42
2. Bruederhoef
3. Amish 37 27
4. Old Amish 4 3
$. Apostolic
6. Reformed
7. General Conference 33 31
8. Churches of God in Christ
9. Old (Wisler)
10. Bundes Conference 4 4
11. Defenceless 2 2
12. Brethren in Christ 45 14
Separate Conferences (3)
Total 207 123
Methodist:
1. Methodist Episcopal 1,368 3,388
2. Union American Methodist Episcopal 93 120
3. African Methodist Episcopal 2,531 1,506
4. African Union Methodist Protestant 66 61
5. African Methodist Episcopal Zion ii590 319
6. Methodist Protestant 188 470
7. Wesleyan Methodist rf S 164
8. Methodist Episcopal, South 1,188 1,524
9. Congregational Methodist 175 180
10. Congregational Methodist (Colored)*
11. New Congregational Methodist 172 349
12. Zion Union Apostolic
13. Colored Methodist Episcopal 261 d 220
14. Primitive 14 12
15. Free 265 324
16. Reformed Methodist Union Episcopal
17. Independent Methodist
18. Evangelist Missionary* i 10
Total 7,907 8,207
(x) Not reported in 1890. (a) New bodies. (3) Included in General
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES. 457
Two Decades. — Continued.
Ending in 1900. Gains in Ten Yean Ending in xgxa
Communicants. Ministefs. ChiuchcB. Communicants.
30,000
ZI3
20
10,000
151
133
18,000
....
328
150
303
4,000
30,000
32,000
5,365
J 73
d6S
rf 3,769
....
....
3
d77
2,950
<^I34
J 67
^5,4"
400
66
21
2,605
....
d2
d2
d 209
25
dg
....
399
4,725
15
14
1,366
di
91
....
I
d'e
45
1,562
^5
3
J 417
320
6
3
d 309
1,840
d6
9
4 152
35
dio6
21
d6g
1,908
17,187
rf 3,930
505,837
1,489
2,204
440,671
13,221
13
100
3,000
222,737
501
^103
d 175,462
148
94
37
437
186,483
333
1,392
10,945
41,725
d 236
38
4,723
709
3
65
1,977
258,414
622
2,I?0
382,759
",235
12
3
<^ 4,471
....
dS
J^
J 319
2,941
diss
dssi
d 3,3l8
....
3
18
713
75.589
840
1,424
29,749
1,78s
....
II
797
S.I82
197
219
4,820
....
40
58
4,000
. • . •
d6
d 12
d 1,408
1,059
^48
dis
d 2,010
1,327,06s
3,719
7,225
698,703
Council in s8go. d Decrease. * Dissolved after igoo.
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4S8 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE IV.— Net Gains in
Qvm in Ten Ycazs
Misisten. Chnrdies.
Moravian Bodies:
1. Moravian 3 28
2. Union Bohemians and Moravians*
Total 3 28
Non-Sectarian Bible Faith Churches*
Pentecostal Bodies:
1. Pentecostal Church*
2. Other Pentecostal Associations*
Total
Pkesbytekians:
1. Northern 1,236 742
2. Cumberland d 265 166
3. Cumberland (Colored) 57 176
4. Welsh Calvinistic dii dig
5. United 187 45
6. Southern 332 568
7. Associate
8. Associate Reformed, South J 29 15
9. Reformed (Synod) di
10. Reformed (General Synod) 4 3
11. Reformed (Covenanted) d 3
12. Reformed in United States and Canada —
Total 1,511 1,681
Protestant Episcopal:
1. Protestant Episcopal 665 1,402
2. Reformed Episcopal 22 ^5
Total 687 1,397
Reforiced:
1. Reformed (Dutch) 132 47
2. Reformed (German) 194 143
3. Christian Reformed 28 46
4. Hungarian Reformed
Total 354 236
* Not ia fifatftre in xgoa
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
459
Two Decades. — Continued.
Ending in 190a
CommunicantB.
Gains in Ten Yean Ending in 1910.
Ministers. Churches. Communicants.
3,036
3,036
195,209
I5,2S2
17,044
4570
21,499
46,169
2,8^3
J 784
398
8
297,068
178,302
827
179,129
14,624
38,813
5,626
59,063
16
di
3
19
'5
14
50
204
700
"5
81S
428
30
458
x,8io
^679
d7S
2
2,467
d 1,387
d 204
d 10
94
233
2
79
365
dq
ZI
12
di6
di
2
dn
I
2
1,383
1,299
?i
1,151
2
469
1,153
38
152
42
x8
6s
77
44
16
250
202
3,123
771
3,894
6,396
20,000
1,420
21,420
345,281
rf 65,192
d 11,934
1,607
19,109
56,030
d 267
2,673
^335
d 1,600
3
d 10
345,365
218,424
328
218,752
9,221
54,285
10,910
5>253
79,669
tf Decrease.
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460 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE IV.
DXMOMINAnOHS.
Salvationists:
1. Salvation Army
2. American Salvation Army.
-Net Gains in
Gains in Ten Yeus
Ministen. Chorcha.
334
2,361
Total 2,361
Schwenkfelders
Social Brethren
Society for Ethical Culture .
Spiritualists
Tlieosophical Society
Unitarians
United Brethren:
1. United Brethren
2. United Brethren (Old Constitution) .
Total
Universalists
Independent Congregations.
29
^434
88
4346
32
334
82
32
435
^9
426
Grand total 32,365 3o»8s9
TABLE v.— Summary of Net
Gains in Ten Yean
Ministen. Chozches.
Adventists
Baptists
Brethren (Dunkards)
Brethren (Plymouth)
Brethren (River)
Buddhists
Catholic Apostolic
Catholic, Eastern Orthodox.
Catholic, Western
Christadelphians
Christians
Christian Catholic (Dowie) .
141
9,925
900
24
39
2,701
J 284
55
529
7,402
92
38
2,035
93
SO
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
461
Two Decades. — CotUinued.
6,765,497
ding ia 1900.
ComirmnJrtnti.
Ministers.
Gains in Tea Yesis Ending
Cbuxcbes.
in xgxo.
10,748
776
59
233
20
6,349
436
10,748 . .
835
253
6,785
236
2,305
3,251
dl
7
14
4
I
666
^8
29
544
349
1,150
104,970
100
^458
37,165
3,489
57
^316
dasg
d445
d24i
44,043
d 6,659
40,654
^686
37,384
3,545
213
III
723
^589
34,547
27,098
27,702
7,861,492
Gains for Two Decades.
Ending in xgoo. Gains in Ten Years Ending in igxo.
Communicants. Ministers. Cbuzcbes. Communicants.
28,214 ^352 202 6,941
815,283 6,594 5,887 1,069,885
38,399 441 107 10,653
89 3,905
1,312 41 dg 108
15 27 3,165
97 ^62 14 3,436
39,561 173 183 331,500
2,468,651 5,239 1,199 3,730,937
7 135
5,556 ^158 diSS ^21,800
40,000 d20 d 33 d 34,135
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462 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE v.— SuiofARY of Net Gains
Gftim in Ten Yeus
Christian Missionary Association
Christian Scientists
Christian Union
Church of God (Winnebrennerian) . . .
Churches of the Living God
Church Triumphant (Schweinfurth)..
Churches of the New Jerusalem
Communistic Societies
Congregationalists
Disdples of Christ
Evangelical Bodies
Faith Associations
Free Christian Zion Church (Colored)
Friends
Friends of the Temple
German Evangelical Protestant
German Evangelical Synod
Jewish Congregations
Latter-Day Saints
Lutherans
Scandinavian Evangelical bodies ....
Mennonites
Methodists
Moravians
Non-Sectarian Bible Faith Churches.
Pentacostal bodies
Presbyterians
Protestant Episcopal
Reformed
Salvationists , . . .
Schwenkfelders
Social Brethren
Society for Ethical Culture
Spiritualists
Theosophical Society
Unitarians
United Brethren
Universalists
Independent Congregations
914
249
^62
lOI
• • • •
dl2
24
'567
2,575
120
756
3,282
292
Total.
166
I
229
lOI
2,172
265
207
7,907
3
1,5"
687
354
2,361
29
J 346
22
32,365
37
3
259
37
540
2,427
270
123
8,207
28
1,681
1,397
236
334
82
32
426
J 186
30,859
^Deocne.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES. 463
POR Two Decades. — Continued,
Eadiog in 190a Gains in Ten Yean Ending in xgxa
Communicanta. Ministers. Churches. Communicants.
d\o dis d 754
40,206 1,268 634 36,166
"2 ds7 d 4,309
15,489 49 IS 3,475
loi 68 4,286
^384
584 dii d 21 1,635
^39 dq rf 1,738
118,589 420 426 104,040
508,931 1,722 2,951 314,792
24,025 134 52 24,727
241 146 9,572
20 15 1,835
11,952 13 4 4,558
^ I da 36
344 14 " di,7g6
16,142 IIS 185 33,041
12,504 783 1,199
177,699 583 ^46 56,826
429,095 1,896 2,780 583,319
30,000 328 303 32,000
17,187 dio6 d6g <^ 3,930
1,327,065 3,719 7,225 698,703
3,036 19 14 3,894
50 204 6,396
815 458 21,420
297,068 1,383 1,299 345,365
179,129 469 1,153 218,752
59,063 250 202 79,669
10,748 83s 253 6,785
3 4 544
d2 J 3 349
236 7 I 1,150
666 104,970
2,305 d% 100
3,251 14 29 ^458
40,654 ^259 J 686 37,384
3,545 •• • III ^^589
213 723 34,547
6,765,497 27,098 27.702 7,861,492
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464 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
' TABLE VI. — Showing Net Gains in Communicants in
THE Twenty Years, 1890-1910, in the Qsdes of
Increase, 5,000 and Upward.
DEN<MiiNATXOiis. Net Gftltt. Per Cdtt.
1. Roman Catholic 6,183,680 go
2. Southern Baptist i ,003,000 78*
3. Methodist Episcopal 946,508^ 42
4. Disciples of Christ (i) 667,06^ 104
5. Methodist Episcopal, South ^41,173 53
6. Presb3rterian (Northern) 540,400 69
7. Colored Baptist AA^^ 33
8. Northern Baptist 4^0;^ 51
9. Lutheran Synodical Conference 409,138 115
10. Protestant Episcopal 396,7^6 75
11. Congregational 222,629 43
12. Latter-Day Saints (Utah branch) . . . 205,648 142
13. African Methodist Episcopal Zion. . . 197,428 44
14. Greek Orthodox i59)900
15. Churches of Christ, Disciples (2) 156,658
16. Lutheran General Synod i37i8oo 84
17. Lutheran General Council (3) 134,378 41
18. Lutheran Synod of Iowa (4) 106,593
19. Colored Methodist Episcopal 105,338 Si
20. Spiritualist 104,970 233
21. Presb)rterian (Southern) 102,199 56
22. Reformed (German) 93,098 46
23. United Brethren 81,208 40 ^
24. Christian Scientist 76,372 ^^5
25. United Evangelical (s) 73,399
26. Lutheran Synod of Ohio 57,925 83
27. Armenian Apostolic 49,665
28. German Evangelical Sjmod 49,183 26
29. African Methodist Episcopal. ...... 47,275 10
30. Russian Orthodox 46,496 344
31. Methodist Protestant 4^,448 33
32. Lutheran Norwegian Sjmod 44,548 80
33. Lutheran United Norwegian Synod. . 41,992 35
34. United Presbyterian 40,608 43
(x) Not including the newer bnnch. (3) Included Iowa Synod in 1890.
(2) Total number reported in igo6. (4) Total number reported in zgia
(S) Total number reported in 19x0. Body not in eziatence in zSga
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES, 465
TABLE VI. — Showing Net Gains in Communicants in the
Twenty Yeass, 1890-1910, in the Osdes or Increase, 5,000
AND VT'WABD.—kjafUinued.
DKNCMDrATiom. Net Gain. Per Cent.
35. Syrian Orthodox (i) 40,000
36. Swedish Evangelical Covenant (i) 40,000
37. Conservative Dimkards 381899 64
38. Seventh-Day Adventist 36,131 125
39. Primitive Baptist Colored (i) 35,076
40. Servian Orthodox (i) 35,000
41. Independent Congregations 34»547
42. Latter-Day Saints, Reorganized. . . . 28,877 i33
43. Freewill Baptists 28,714 242
44. Hauge's Lutheran Synod (i) 21,627
45. Norwegian Free Lutheran Synod 20,000 136
46. Roumanian Orthodox (i) 20,000
47. Bulgarian Orthodox (i) 20,000
48. Pentecostal (i) 20,000
49. Orthodox Friends i9)4i7 24
50. Churches of God (Winnebrennerian) 18,964 84
51. Swedish Evangeliad Free (i) 18,000
52. Salvation Army 171O97 200
53. Christian Reformed 16,536 133
54. Union American Methodist Episcopal 16,221 712
55. Suomai, Finnish Lutheran (i) 16,115
56. Polish Catholic (i) 15,473
57. Jewish (2) 12,504
58. General Baptist 12,238 57
59. Lutheran United Synod, South ii)464 31
60. Finnish Apostolic, Lutheran (i) 11,000
61. Progressive Dunkards 10,518 173
62. Free Methodist 10,002 45
63. Slovakian Synod, Lutheran (i) 9,500
64. Danish United Synod, Lutheran 8,501 243
65. Congregational Methodist 6,764 77
66. Non-Sectarian Bible Faith (3) 6,396
67. Moravian 6,159 52
68. Finnish National, Lutheran (4) 6,000
69. General Conference, Mennonite 5,991 106
70. Christian Catholic (Dowie) (3) 5,865
(x) Not in exbtenoe or not icpoited in 1890. Total number in xgxa
>) Represents only heads of tamilies.
' Not In existence or not reported in 1890. Total number in 1906.
Not in existence or not reported in 1890.
11/
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466 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE VI. — ^Showing Net Gains in ComcuNiCANTS in the
Twenty Years, 1890-1910, in the Okdee of Increase, 5,000
AND UPWARD.--C<m/in«e(2.
DDfOKiNAnoiis. Net Gain. Pa Cent
71. Associate Refonned Synod, South,
Presbyterian S>5i6 6$
73. Hungarian Refonned (i) 5,253
73. Cumberland Presbyterian, Colored. . 5,110 39
74. Apostolic Christian (i) 4,558
75. Separate Baptist 3>58i 224
76. Japanese Buddhist (i) 3,165
77. Old Amish, Mennonite 3>oo5 147
78. Universalist 2,956 6
79. Danish in America, Lutheran Synod.. 2,871 25
80. Texas Synod, Lutheran (2) 2,800
81. Unitarian 2,793 4
82. Icelandic Synod, Lutheran 2,709 136
83. Wesleyan Methodist 2,686 16
84. Christian Workers (Colored) (i) 2,676
85. Primitive Methodist 2,582 54
86. Theosophist 2,405
87. Pljnnouth Brethren II 2,333
88. New Catholic Apostolic (i) 2,020
89. Separate Mennonite Conferences (i) 1,908
90. Saints of Christ, Baptist (Colored).. (i) 1,823
91. Synod of Lutheran Brethren (3) 1,800
92. Brethren in Christ, Mennonite 1,688
93. Mennonite i»596
94. Catholic Apostolic 1,513
95. Pentecostal Associations (i) 1,420
96. New Jerusalem, General Convention 1,405
97. Ethical Culture 1,386
98. Missionary Church Association, Faith (i) 1,256
99. Reformed Episcopal i|i55
100. Bundes Conference, Mennonite i}i45
loi, Eielsen's Lutheran Synod 1,130
102. Jehovah Synod, Lutheran (2) 1,100
103. Reformed Catholic 1,100
104. Welsh Calvinistic Presbyterian 1,037
105. Brethren in Christ (River Brethren). 987
(i) Not in ezMtcDce or not reported in 1800. Total anmbcr ia 1906.
(2) Not in rvtXrm or not reported in z8ga
(5) A new body.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES,
467
TABLE VI.— Showing Net Gains in Comuunicants in the
Twenty Years, 1890-1910, in the Okder op Increase, 5,000
AND Upward.— HC(m/«fi««rf.
DBMOIONATIOIIS.
Net Gtin. Per Cent.
106. Advent Christians
983 ..
(l) 938
(I 858 . .
(l) 814
(1) 771 • •
(1) 7S«
723 ••
713 • .
(i) 703
644 ..
58s ..
544
'■'§1 ::
489
107. Buffalo S3mod, Lutheran
108. Heavenly Recruit (Faith Association)
109. Church of Christ in God (Colored) . .
no. General Church (New Jerusalem) . . .
111. Bohemian and Moravian Union
112. Apostolic (Churches of Living God) .
113. New Congregational Methodist
114. Zion Union Apostolic (Methodist).. .
115. Peniel Mission, Faith
116. Plymouth Brethren I
117. African Union Methodist Protestant
118. Schwenkfelders
119. Apostolic Faith Movement
120. United Baotist
I2T. Plymouth Brethren Illr ...........
122. Metropolitan Church Association. . .
12^. Plvmouth Brethren IV
(l) 466 . .
439
(i) 436
I2A. American Salvation Armv
125. Voluntary Missionary (Colored)
126. Reformed Mennonite
(i) 42s
424
127. Christian Congregation, Faith
128. Social Brethren
(i) 395
340
129. Hepzibah Faith
130. United Zion's Children, River Breth-
ren
(l) 293
224
i^i. Old Order. River Brethren
200
1^2. Amana Societv
IS6
i^^. Christadelohian
135
III
i^j.. Defenceless Mennonite
135. Churches of God in Christ, Men-
nonite
136. Seventh-Day German Dunkards
137. Old, Mennonite
1^8. Friends of Temole
91 ..
46 ..
45
36
139. Reformed Presbyterian Covenanted.
3 ..
(x) Reported rinoe 1890. Cenaot returns of xgo6.
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468 REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
TABLE VII. — Showing Net Losses in the Twenty
Years, 1890-1910, by Decrease and by Dissolution.
By Dissolution:
1. Michigan Synod, Lutheran 1x^82
2. German Augsburg Synod, Lutheran 7,010
3. Evaiigelist Missionary (Methodist) 2,010
4. Christian Missionary Association 754
5. Old Catholic 66$
6. Church Triumphant (Schweinfurth) 384
7. Congregational Methodist (Colored) 319
8. Harmony (Communistic) 250
9. Apostolic, Mennonite 209
10. Church Triumphant (Communistic) 205
11. Separatist (Communistic) 200
12. Christian Commonwealth (Communistic) 80
13. Altruist (Communistic) 25
14. New Icaria (Communistic) 21
15. Adonai Shomo 20
By Decrease:
1. Cumberland Presbyterian (i) 46,940
2. Evangelical Association (2) 24,647
3. Primitive Baptbt (3) 19,036
4. Free Baptist 17,018
5. Christian 16,244
6. Independent Congregations, Lutheran 15^953
7. Old Two-Secd-in-the-Spirit Baptist 12,070
8. Christian Union 4,309
9. United Brethren (Old Constitution) 3,170
10. Immanuel Synod, Lutheran 3io8o
11. Amish, Mennonite 2,461
12. "Hicksite," Friends 2,397
13. Baptist Church of Christ 1,838
14. German Evangelical Protestant 1,45^
15. Independent Methodist 1,408
16. Shakers (Communistic) 1,212
17. Reformed Presb)rterian (General Synod) 1,202
18. Reformed Presbyterian (Synod) 1,119
19. Seventh-Day Baptist 1,024
20. Churches of God in Jesus Christ (Adventist) ... 748
21. Evangelical Adventists 666
22. Life and Advent Union, Adventist 509
23. " Wilburite" Friends 449
(i) Many united with Northern Presl^yterian Church, 1906-7. (a) Due to division.
(3) Due to separate report of Colored Primitive Baptists.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES. 469
TABLE Vn.— Showing Net Losses in the Twenty Years,
1890-1910, BY Decrease and by Dissolution. — Continued.
24. Old Order Dunkards 411
25. Associate Presbyterian 267
26. Six Principle Baptist 206
27. Bniederhoef, Mennonite 77
28. Primitive Friends 61
29. Church of God, Adventist 36
30. Reformed Presb3rterian in U. S. and Canada 2
TABLE Vni.— Showing Gains in Communicants by
denominatlonal families or groups in the
Twenty Years, 1890-1910.
DEMOICZNAXVONS. GtlD. qqq^^
1. Adventist 3S>iSS S^
2. Baptist 1,885,168 SI
3. Brethren (Dunkards) 49*052 66
4. Brethren (Plymouth) 3,905 59
5. Brethren (River) ii42o 41
6. Buddhists (i) 3,165
7. Catholic Apostolic 3,533 253
8. Catholic, Eastern Orthodox (i) 371,061
9. Catholic, Western 6,199,588 99
10. Church of the Living God (Colored) (i) 4,286
11. Churches of the New Jerusalem 2,219 3^
12. Communistic Societies d 1,777
13. Disciples of Christ 823,723 128
14. Evangelical bodies 48,752 37
15. Faith Associations (i) 9,572
16. Friends 16,510 15
17. Latter-Day Saints 234,525 141
18. Lutherans 1.012,414 82
19. Scandinavian Evangelical (i) 62,000
20. Mennonite 13*257 32
21. Methodist 2,025,768 44
22. Moravian 6,930 60
23. Pentecostal bodies (i) 21,420
24. Presb)rterian 642,433 50
25. Protestant Episcopal 397i88i 74
26. Reformed 138,732 45
27. Salvationists i7iS33 201
28. United Brethren 78,038 35
(i) Either «itifely new or of tuch large growth by recent immigntion as to*give percentage
no MgntfirawT. d. Decrease.
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47© RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE DC. — ^New Bodies not in Existence ok not
Reported in 1890.
DSMOimiATZONS. =_ _^,^
in X9XO1.
z. Primitive Baptist Colored probably included in
Primitive Baptists (White) in 1890 35,076
2. Churches of God and Saints in Christ (Colored),
Baptist, 1896 1,823
3. Japanese Buddhists 3,165
4. New Apostolic, 1862 (in Germany) 2,020
5. Syrian Orthodox, by iounigration 40,000
6. Servian Orthodox, by immigration 35,ooo
7. Roimianian Orthodox, by immigration 20,000
8. Bulgarian Orthodox, by immigration 20,000
9. Pol^h National Catholic, out of Roman Catholic, 1904 1 5,473
10. Christian Catholic (Dowie), 1896 5,865
11. Christian Workers for Friendslup (Colored), 1899. . . 2,676
12. Apostolic Church of the Living God (Colored) 752
13. Church of Christ, Living God (Colored) 858
14. General Church, New Jerusalem, 1892 814
15. Churches of Christ, by division of Disciples of Christ 156,658
16. United Evangelical Church, by division of Evangelical
Association, 1894 73,399
17. Apostolic Faith Movement, 1900 538
18. Peniel Missions 703
19. Metropolitan Church Association, 1894 466
20. Hepzibah Faith Association, 1892 293
21. Missionary Church Association, 1898 1,256
22. Heavenly Recruit Church, 1885 938
23. Apostolic Christian Church 4,55^
24. Christian Congregation, 1899 395
25. Voluntary Missionary Society (Colored), 1900 425
26. Free Christian Zion Church (Colored), 1905 1,835
27. Eielsen's Lutheran Synod, 1846 1,130
28. Texas Lutheran Synod, 1895 2,800
29. Finnish Apcratolic Lutheran Synod 11,000
30. Finnish National Lutheran Synod, 1900 6,000
31. Slovakian Lutheran Synod, 1901 9,5oo
32. Church of the Lutheran Brethren, 1900 1,800
33. Lutheran Jehovah Conference 1,100
34. Swedish Evangelical Mission Covenant, by inmiigra-
tion and withdrawal from Lutheran bodies, 1885. . 40,000
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES. 471
TABLE DC. — New Bodies not in Existence or not Reported
IN 1890. — Continued,
in xgxo.
35. Swedish Evangelical Free Mission, by immigration
and withdrawal from Lutheran bodies, 1885 18,000
36. Norwegian Evangelical Free, very recent 4,000
37. Reformed Methodist Union Episcopal Church, 1896. 4,000
38. Union of Bohemian and Moravian Brethren, by im-
migration, 1903 771
39. Non-Sectarian Churches of Bible Faith 6,396
40. Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene, 1907 30,000
41. Hungarian Reformed, by withdrawals from German
Reformed, Presbyterian, Congregational Churches,
1904 5,253
42. American Salvation Army, by division, 1884 436
GROWTH OF COLORED ORGANIZATIONS.
TABLE X.— Summary of Colored Bodies and Churches.
COLOKED DZNomMAixoNS. Ministers. Churches, ^^^^^f*'
Colored Baptist 12,637 17,323 1,790,165
Colored Primitive Baptist c 1,480 797 35,076
United American Freewill Baptists (;.... 136 247 14,489
Church of God and Saints of Christ c... . 75 48 1,823
Churches of the Living God c loi 68 4,286
Voluntary Missionary Society c 11 3 425
Free Christian Zion c 20 15 1,835
Union American Methodist Episcopal. . . 138 255 18,500
African Methodist Episcopal 6,353 5»527 500,000
African Union Methodist Protestant 200 125 4,ooq
African Methodist Episcopal Zion c 3,488 3,298 547,216
Colored Methodist Episcopal 2,901 2,857 234,721
Zion Union Apostolic c 33 45 3,059
Reformed Methodist Union Episcopal c. 40 58 4,000
Cumberland Presbyterian Colored c 450 400 30,000
Total colored denominations. . 28,063 S^^o^^^^ 3»iS9>595
c Census of 1906.
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472 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
TABLE X.— SuMiCAKY op Colored Bodies and Chtteches.—
Continued.
OOLOftID CRUICait IN ODBE OBMOMINAIIOMS. Mioiltcn. ChoicllC*. ^^^JSf"'
Adventist bodies lo 31 364
Northern Baptist 753 905 112,874
Free Baptist 69 195 10,876
Christians 30 91 7,545
Churches of God 5 14 329
Con^egational 72 170 119233
Disaples of Christ 71 129 9,705
Churches of Christ 20 41 1,528
Lutheran bodies 3 7 239
Methodist Episcopal 2,179 4*43^ 299,402 I
Methodist Protestant 91 65 3,144 '
Wesleyan Methodist 9 19 1,258
Presbyterian Northern 279 417 27,799
Presbyterian Southern 29 40 1,183
Protestant Episcopal 98 193 19,098
Reformed Episcopal 21 38 2,252
Roman Catholic 20 36 35,235
Miscellaneous 19 31 1,670
Total colored churches in other
denominations *3»778 t6,86o tS45»734
suiQiASY. Ministen. CSiuichet.
Colored denominations 28,063 3i>o66 3,189,595
Colored churches in other denominations 3,778 6,860 545,734
Total 31,841 37,9263,735,329
Compared with the returns of the census of 1890, those of 1910
show increases as follows: ^
Church*. ^^*^S^»-
Colored denominations, 1910 31,066 3,189,595
Colored denominations, 1890 19,631 2,303,351
Increase ii,435 886,244
Colored churches in other denominations, 1910 6,860 545,734
Colored churches in other denominations, 1890 4,139 370,826
Increase 2,721 174,908
Colored denominations, increase ii,435 886,244
Colored churches in other denominations,
increase 2,721 174,908
Total increase in twenty years 14,156 1,061,152
* Many fizures in this column are estimates.
t Many of the entries are from the census of 1906.
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GENERAL STATISTICAL SUMMARIES.
473
MEMBERSHIP OF THE LEADING RELIGIOUS
BODIES IN THE UNITED STATES ACCORD-
ING TO THE LATEST CENSUS.
THE AREA OF THE CIRCLE REPRESENTS THE CHURCH
MEMBERSHIP OF THE COUNTRY, THE SEVERAL
SECTORS THE PROPORTIONAL STRENGTH
OF THE SEVERAL DENOMINATIONS.
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474 RBLICIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES,
IDAHO
ILLINOIS
INDIANA
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RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES. 475
MISSISSIPPI
MISSOURI
MONTANA
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476 RELIGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
OKUHOMA
OREGON
PENNSYLVANIA
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REUGIOUS FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES. 477
WEST VIRGINIA
WISCONSIN
WYOMING
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INDEX.
Adkr, Fdiz, 348.
Adonai Shomo, iii, 117.
Advent Giristiaiis, 5.
Adrentists. History and Polity, 1-4.
Relation to Freewill Biqytists, 33.
Relation to the Adooai Shomo» 117*
Diiisions, 4.
Summary Statistics, 14.
Adrentists, Age-to-Come, 13.
Adventists, Evangelical, 4.
Adventists, Seventh-Day, 8.
Adventists, The Church of God, 11.
Adventists, The Chnrches of God in Christ Jesus, 13.
Advent Union, Life and, la.
Albright, John, 139.
Albrights, The. The Albright People, 139.
Allen, Richard, 337.
Altruists, III, 116.
Amana Society, iii, 113.
American Christian Convention, 9a.
American National Convention, aS.
Amish (Mennonite), a 13.
Amish, The Old (Mennonite), ai4.
Ammen, Jacobs ai^
Anabaptists, 17.
Ann Lee, iii.
Apostolic, The (Mennonite), ai$.
Armenian Church, 81.
Asbury, Francis, aa7.
Associate Church of North America (Presbyterian), 305.
Associate Reformed Synod of the South (Presbyterian), 306.
Ballon, Hosea, 369.
Baltimore Association, 45.
Baptist Church of Christ, 43.
Bi^ytists. History and General Characteristics, 16-1S.
Relation to Other Bodies, 16.
Divisions, 18.
479
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48o INDEX.
Biqptistt. Summary Stadstici, 55.
Bapdstt, Anti-Mission, 45.
Baptists (Colored), Regular, 37-99.
Baptists, Free Coaunanion, 33.
Baptists, Freewill, 3J-56.
Baptists, General, 38-4a
Baptists, General Six-Prindple, yx
Baptists, Missionary, 4a.
BaptisU (North), Regnlar, 23-44.
Baptists, Old School, 45.
Baptists, Old Two-Seed-in-the-Spirit Predestinarian, 4S-54.
BaptisU, Original Freewill, 37.
Baptists, PrimitiTe, 45-48.
Baptists, Regnlar, 17, 18.
Baptists, Regnlar, General Characteristics and Principles, iS-aa.
Baptists, Regular Predestinarian, 50.
Baptists, Regnlar Two>Seed Predestinarian Primitive, 50.
Baptists, Sabbatarian, 31.
Baptists, Separate, 41.
Baptists, Seventh-Day, 31.
Baptists (Sonth), Regular, 25-37.
Baptists, United, 41.
Bible Bigots, 221.
Bishop Andrew, 254.
Book of Covenants, 171.
Book of Mormon, 165.
Book of Worship, 109.
Brethren in Christ, 55.
Brethren, Old Order of Yorker, 57.
Brethren (Plymouth) I., 6a
Brethren (Plymouth) II., 61.
Brethren (Plymouth) III., 62.
Brethren (Plymouth) IV., 64.
Brethren, The River. General History, 55.
Summary Statistics, 58.
Brethren, Yorker, 57.
Brigham Young, 166.
Brothers of Christ, 89.
Brueder Gemeinde (Mennonite), 218L
Bruederhoef (Mennonite), 213.
Burial Hill Dedaration, 12a
Catholic Apostolic Church, 84.
Catholic Church, The Greek, 79.
Catholic Church, The Old, 82.
Cath<dic Church, The Reformed, 83.
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INDEX. 481
Catholic Chnrcfa, The Romaii, Statistics in the United States, 76-79.
Catholics, General Definition, 66,
Channing, William Ellery, 366.
Chemnng Association, 45.
Chinese Temples, 86.
Christadelphians, 89.
Christian Charch, Soath, 93, 94.
Christian Connection, The, 91.
Christian Missionary Association, 95.
Christian Science Jonmal, The, 96.
Christian Scientists, 96.
Christians, The. Origin and General Characteristics, 91-93.
Statistics, 93.
Withdrawal of the Christian Chnrch, South, 93.
Christian Union Churches, 99.
Churches of God in Christ Jesos (Adventist), 13.
Chnrch of God (Adventist), 11.
Charch of God in Christ (Mennonite), 317.
Chnrch of God, The (Winebrenner), 102.
Chnrch Triumphant (Koreshan Ecdesia), iii, 117.
Chnrch Triumphant, The (Schweinfnrth), 105.
Coke, Thomas, 223, 227.
Communistic Societies. Definitions and Divisions, iii.
Summary Statistics, 118.
Conference, The General (Mennonite), 216.
Conference, The Synodical (Lutheran), 190.
Congregational Churches. History, Polity, Relation to Presbyterians^ 119-
123.
Summary Statistics, 123, 124.
Conservative Brethren, 133.
Consolidated American Missionary Convention, 38.
Council, The General (Lutheran), 184.
Cyrus Teed, 117.
Danish Association in America, The (Lutheran), aoi.
Danish Church in America, The (Lutheran), 199.
Declaration of Christian Doctrine, 145.
Defenseless, The (Mennonite), 219.
Disciples of Christ, 125-127.
Relation to Other Bodies, 91, 125.
Principles, 126.
Statistics, 127.
Dunkards. History and General Characteristics, 130-133.
Divisions, 133.
Summary Statistics, 138.
Eddy, Mrs. Mary Baker G., 96.
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482 INDEX.
Embniy, Philq>, 9a6.
Englc, Jacob, 55.
Episcopal Chardi, The ProCeitaiiL History, 317-321.
Doctrine, 319.
Statistics, 323.
Episcopal Church, The Reformed, Origin, Principles, and Statistics, 325-327.
Ethical Coltore, The Society for, 348.
Evangelical Association, 139.
Evangelist Missionary Chorch, The, (Methodist), 270.
Evidence from Scripture and History of the Second Coining of Christ afaoot
the year 1843, 2.
Falckner, Justus, 176.
Fee, John G., 95.
FUck, Elder J. V. B., 99.
Foreign Mission Convention of the United States, 28.
Fox, George, 143.
Friends. General Description, 143, 144.
Divisions, 144.
Summary Statistics, 152.
Friends (Hicksite), 147.
Friends of the Temple, 153.
Friends (Orthodox), 145.
Friends (Primitive), 15a
Friends (Wilbarite), 149.
General AssodAtion of the Western States and Territories, 2S.
Gernum Bi^tists, 129.
German Evangelical Protestant Chnrch, 155.
German Evangelical Synod of North America, 156.
Goet water, John Ernest, 175.
Greek Orthodox Chnrch, 81.
Harmony Society, III, 114.
Hange's S3mod (Lutheran), 196.
Hermhut, 272, 273.
Herr, John, 215.
Herrites, 216.
Hicks, Elias, 147.
Hoffmann, Christopher, 153.
Hoffmannites, 153.
Holdeman, John, 217.
Holliman, Ezekiel, 17.
Holy Club, 221.
Hookers, 214.
Huter, Jacob, 213.
Independent Churches of Christ in Christian Union, 99.
Irving, Edward, 84.
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INDEX. 483
Jews. History in the United States, i59-i6i«
Summary Statistics, 164.
Jones, Abner, 91.
Joseph Smith, 165.
Jodidal Testimony, 399.
Koreshan Ecdesia, iii, 117.
Latter-Day Saints. History, 165, 166.
Divisions, 166.
Summary Statistics, 173.
Latter-Day Saints, Charch of Jesos Christ of, 167.
Latter-Day Saints, Reorganized Chnrch of Jeans Girist of, 17a
Lecturing Brethren, 90.
Lntheran Congregations, Independent, 304.
Lntherans. General Survey, 175-177.
Summary Statistics, 305.
Lutheran S3mods, Independent, 193.
Mack, Alexander, 139.
Makemie, Francis, 379.
Massachusetts Metaphysical Collie, 96.
McKendree, William, 338.
Mennonite Church, 3 13.
Mennonites. History, 306-313.
Protest against Slavery, 307.
Articles of Faith, 308.
Polity, 3 10.
Divisions, 313.
Summary Statistics, 330.
Menno Simons, 306.
Methodists. History, 331-335.
Peculiarities, 333.
Conferences, 334.
Articles of Religion, 335.
Divisions, 335.
Summary Statistics, 371.
Methodists, Colored, The Congregational, 361.
Methodist Connection of America, The Wesleyan, 35a
Methodist Episcopal Church, 336-336.
Methodist Episcopal Church, South, 353.
Methodist Episoopal Church, The African, 337.
Methodist Episcopal Church, The Colored, 363.
Methodist Episoopal Chnrch, The Union American, 3361.
Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, The African, 343.
Methodist Protestant Church, The, 346.
Methodist Protestant Church, The African Union, 34a.
Methodist Church, The Primitive, 265.
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484 INDEX.
Methodists, The Congregatioiud, 359.
Methodists, The Free, 367.
Methodists, The Independent, 369.
Methodists, The New Congregational, 261.
Midnight Cry, The, 8.
Millennial Church or United Sodetj of Believers, ill*
Miller, WUliam, i.
Missonrians, 191.
Moravians. History, 273-275.
Government, 273.
Doctrine, 274.
Statistics, 276.
Mother Lee, 112.
Mohlenberg, Henry M., 176.
National Christian Scientist Association, 96.
New England Missionary Convention, 28.
New Hampshire Confession, 19, 20.
New Icaria Society, 1 1 i-i 16.
New Jernsalem, The Church of, 107.
New Lights, 312.
New Mennonites, 216.
Norwegian Church in America (Lutheran), 197.
Norwegian Church, The United (Lutheran), 203.
Oberholzer, John, 216.
O'Kelley, James, 91.
Old Order Brethren, 136.
Old (Wisler), The (Mennonite), 218.
Open Brethren, 61.
Orthodox Jews, 161.
Parker, Daniel, 49.
Philadelphia Confession, 19, 20.
PlymonUi Brethren. History and Doctrine^ 59.
Divisions, 60.
Summary Statistics, 65.
Presbyterian Church, Colored, The Cumberland, 294.
Presbyterian Church (Covenanted), The Reformed, 314.
Presbyterian Church in the United States and Canada, The Reformed, 314.
Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. History, 279-283.
Statistics, 283-288.
Presbyterian Church in the United States (Southern), 302.
Presbyterian Church, The Cumberland. History and Doctrine, 289-291.
Statistics, 291-294.
Presbyterian Church, The General Synod of the Reformed, 312.
Presbyterian Church, The S3mod of ^e Reformed, 31a
Presbyterians, Definition, Polity, Divisions, 277-27^
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INDEX. 485
Presbyteriansi The Reformed, History and Polity, 308.
Presbyterians, The United, 29S.
Presbytery of Philadelphia, a8a
Profession of Belief, 37a
Progressive Brethren, 135.
Protestant Episcopal Bodies, 317*
Quakers, 143.
Randall, Benjamin, 33.
Rapp, George, 114.
Reformed Bodies, General Description, 339.
Reformed Chorch in America, 330-333.
Reformed Church of the United States, 333-337.
Reformed Chnrch, The Christian, 337.
Reformed Jews, The, 162.
Reformed, The (Mennonite), 315.
Russian Orthodox Chu-ch, 80.
Salvation Army, Origin, Character, Government, Statistici, 340-343.
Schweinforth, George Jacob, 105.
Schwenkfeldians, The, 344.
Second Dose of the Doctrine of Two Seeds, 49.
Separatists, 111-115.
Serving Brethren, 90.
Seventh-Day Baptists, German, 137.
Shakers, iii.
Signs of the Times, The, 2.
Social Brethren Chorch, The, 346.
Spiritaalists, The, 350.
Statistical Summaries for 1895, 441.
Stone, Barton W., 91.
Summary Statistics by Denominational Families, 392-393.
Summary Statistics by Denominations, 380-391.
Summary Statistics by States of all Denominations, 378-381.
Summary Statistics of Churches in Cities, 404-440.
Summary Statistics of Colored Organizations, 400-403.
Summary Statistics of Denominations according to Number of Communi-
cants, 394-397.
Summary Statistics of Denominations according to Polity, 398-400.
Summary Statistics of Denominational Families according to Number of
Communicants, 397.
Swedenborg, Emmanuel, 107.
Synod of Ohio and other States, The Joint (Lutheran), 194.
Synod in the South, The United (Lutheran), 182.
Synod, The Buffalo (Lutheran), 195.
Synod, The General (Lutheran), 178.
Synod, The German Augsburg (Lutheran), 20a
Synod, The Icelandic (Lutheran), aox.
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486 INDEX.
Synod, The Michigan (Lutheran), 198.
Synod, The Suomai (Lutheran), 202.
Temple Society, 153.
Theosophical Society, 353.
Thomas, John, 89.
Time Brethren, 3.
Touro, Abraham and Isaac, 159.
True In^iration Congregations, 113.
Trumpet of Alarm, The, 2.
Uniates, 79.
Unitarians, 365.
Unitas Fiatrum, 272.
United Brethren in Christ, 357.
United Brethren in Christ (Old Constitution), 361.
United Brethren, Origin and General Description, 355-357.
United Zion's Children, 57.
Unity of Brethren as Distinguished from United Brethren in Christ, 272.
Universalists, 369.
Warwick Association, 45.
Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Church (Presbjrterian), 296.
Westminster Confession, Revision of, 282.
White, Mrs. Ellen G., 11.
Wilbur, John, 149.
Williams, Roger, 17.
Winebrenner, John, 102.
Woman-preachers, 34.
Woodruff, Wflford, 167.
Zion Union Apostolic Church (Methodist), 245.
Index to Introduction,
Part I.— Results or the Census op 1890.
1. The Sources of Information and the Plan, iz-xi.
Relation to the Census of 1890.
Alphabetical Order of the Denominations and Historical Order
of the Denomination of Families.
2. The Scope and Method of the Census, xi-riii.
The Census of 1880 and the Census of 189a
Exhaustive List of Denominations.
3. Variety in Religion, xiii-xv.
Wide Range of Choice.
Many Denominations Differ Only in Name.
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INDEX, 487
4. Classification of the Churches, zv^zviii.
The Principle of Classification.
The Difficulty in the Nomenclature. '
5. Denominational Titles, xviii-xxiii.
Geographical, Radal, Historical, etc.
6. The Causes of Division, zxiii-xzviii.
Controversies over Doctrine.
Controversies over Administration and Discipline.
Controversies over Moral Questions.
Controversies of a Personal Character.
7. Analysis of Religious Forces of the United States, zxviii-xzziii.
Christians and Non-Christians.
Ministers.
Organizations.
Services.
Values.
Communicants.
8. Religious Population, xxziii-
Methods of Computation.
9. The Growth of the Churches, ]
The Normal Condition.
The Net Increase.
Statistical Proofs of the Advance of Protestant Christianity.
10. How the Religious Forces are Distributed, zZzviii-zliii.
With respect to Number of Communicants, Value of Property,
Number of Organizations or Congregations.
11. The Evangelical and Non-Evangelical Elements, zliii-ziv.
Classification according to Definition.
13. The General Statistical Summaries, zlvi-l.
Gassification according to Polity, and of Churches in the Cities,
new Features.
Difficulties with respect to Lutherans.
Opinions of R^resentative Men.
13. The Negro in his Relations to the Church, Hv.
Past H.— The Govexnment.Census of 1906.
I. Sex in Membership, Ivii-lix.
3. Value of Church Property, lix-lx.
3. Average of Members to Church Edifices, bd.
4. Tendency of Population to the Cities, bd-bdi.
5. Communicants in the Cities, bdi-lxiii.
6. Value of Church Property in the Cities, bclii-lxiv.
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488 MDEX. •>'
7. Growth by States in Communicants, bdv^zv. ^
8. The Rate of Growth in the South, Ixv-tcvi. •'
9. The Largest Absolute iJ^leas^ IzviMzviii.
10. Effect of Migration, Ippa- ^ /
Past III.—The RetviSbs ^r l^j^ioo and 1910 and Wkat THsipQtow.
X. Growth of the Churcfa59jcn the Past Twenty Years, hos-ba.'-
3. The Largest AbsoIute^lncreaac5,4xzL ^ *
3. Growth of the Roman CatMic Church, izzi-lzdi. '
4. Religious Population in i9io,Jzdi-4zziiL ^^^
5. Changes of Twenty Y^, IxjaiWxxv. W .^^ ^
6. Order According to I)ea(HninationaI Families or Grou|fk,'1kcv^zxvi.
Part IV.— ttomNJDrr Religious Elements?***
X. Hie Characteristics ol'Amerltan Christianity, Izzvih-Izzz.
The Phenomenal Growth of the Church of Rome and its Relation
to Protestant America.
3. Evangelical Christianity Dominant, Izzx-lzxzi.
3. Evangelical Christianity Systematically Organized, Izzzi-lzzziL
Opportimity for Work in Foreign Countries. ^
Opportunity for Work at Home. / ^
Development of Work among the Young Peoplf.
4. Evangdlcal Christianity Evangelistic, Izzziii^lzxziv.
Importance of Christian Character and of Christian Woric
The Church of To-day is a Gospel Church. #^
The Age of Higher Biblical Criticism.
Educational Evangelism.
5. CoK>peration, Federation and Union, boziv^lzzxvi.
6. How the Church Affects Society, Izxzvi-lzzzvii.
As a Property-holder, Corporation, Public Institution, etc.
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