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Tous las autras axemplaires originaux sont filmto en commen9ant par la premiere paga qui comporta une empreinte d'impressioin ou d'illustration et en terminant par la damiAra paga qui comporta une telle empreinte. Un daa symboles suivants apparaftra sur la demidre image de chaqua microfiche, selon le cas: la symbole — »> signifie "A SUIVRE", le symbola ▼ signifie "FIN". Les cartes, planclies. tableaux, etc.. peuvent Atre filmto A des taux de rMuction diff^rents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seul clich6. il est film* A partir de Tangle supArieur gauche, de gauche A droite. et de haut en bas. 9n prenant la nombre d'images nAcessaire. I.es diagrammes suivants illustrant la mAthode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 ti-^ 3fflQ^^BB ISCORKJSL / OP J^i]oj2 % ^I^upcl^, ST. CATHAKmeS. OHT. ■MHIIt in ^omectioq ^ith ^h« ^utiles ^erOicSs ^eld 6n D(|a| Snd aqc' ^rd, l891. COMPILED HY K. LAWKIE, ES(J.. ST. CATHAKINES. PREFACE. At the aunual meeting of the congregation of Knox Churth, held on the r)th February, 1891, Mr. U. Lawrie called the attention of the meeting to its approaching Jubilee on the 2nd May, 1891, being then iifty years since its tirst organization, and suggested that the oct*asion should be celebrated by suitable services, and a Jubilee Fund raised to pay olf the debt. The meeting adopted the sug- gestion and api>ointed a committee to carry the same into effect, and on the 19th March the committee met and appointed the follow- ing sub-committees : 1st. On Keligious Services; 2nd. On the Jubilee Fund; 8rd. On Decorations; 4th. Historical Record; and the lollowing is the report of the His- torical Committee. p-[ ISTORICAL RSCORP or Kno:)C Church, ST. CATHARINES, ONT., As Compiled from the Memory of the Writer and the Records of the Past. There are times in the history of Church^'s, and even individuals, when it is both profit- able and advisable to look baek on the way that has been traversed with all its drawbacks, its disappointments and sue- eesses, and from the records of the past to learn the lessons of experience and take courage for the future. Such a review is always interestinr and instructive, and the present time seems especially fitted to form the standpoint from which this coninegation, now half a century old, may look back and note the proffress made, and thankinu' the Grreat Head of the 6. Church for tho bU'H8in[i^8 of the pant, humbly implore His guidauw and presence in the future. It is therefore proposed to give a short summary of the history of our congregation from its organization in 1841 to the present time. To some amongst us these pages will doubtless retrall the events of bygone days, scenes in Avhich those who took a prominent and useful jiart, whose names are now let- tered on their tombstones, and whose spirits have gone to join the ransomed Church of God. In the year 1837, a memorable year in the history of Canada, being the year of the McKenzie llebellion, the family of John Lawrie, from the County of Haddington, Scotland, settled on a farm about tAVo miles north of this city. Mr. Lawrie and his family had been connected with the United Secession Church of Scotland, now the United Presbyterian Church of Scotland. James Dougan, who had settled in this place a year or two previous, came from the County of Armagh, in Ireland, and was connected with the Irish Presbyterian Church, a Church whose principles and polity were much in harmony with those of the United Secession 6. Churoh of Scotland. At that time there were only three Protestant denominations organ- ized in St. Catharines. The Episcopalians, whose chnrch, that stood on Yate street, was bnrned in the year 1836, worshipped in a room in the old Grantham Academy, now the Col- legiate Institute, until their new church was erected in 1840. The Wesleyan Methodists occupied a small wooden building on St. Paul street, where their present handsome church now stands; and the American Presbyterians, who had a fine large brick building on Church street, erected in 1834, and stood where their present tine new church is now erected. There was also a Mr. Anvfus Mcintosh, a missionary sent out by the Church of Scot- land, who was located in Thorold and preached in St. Catharines, Port Dalhousic, and other places along the line of the Wel- laud Canal; and there was a Mr. George McClatchy, from the North of Ireland, who was located in tne Township of Clinton and preai'hed there and in Grimsby, and who also preached frequently in St. Catharines and baptized the children of Presbyterians. Previous to this time several ministers who had been sent to this country by the United Secession Church of Scotland had organized the Flamboro Presbytery. Mr. John Lttwric, .TainoB DoQgaii and several others applied to the said Presbytery for sermon and organization, and in response to that appliiration the Uev. Thos. Christie, of West Flamboro, preathed and organized a congregation on the 2nd oi' May, 1841, and ordained John Lawrie and James Dougan Ruling Elders, with twenty-four members, including the two Klders mentioned. The nev.'ly formed congregation was supplied with occasional preaching by the following ministers: Rev. Christie, of West Flamboro; Roy, ol St. George; Murray, of Mount Pleas- ant; Barrie, of Eramosa; Dick, of Richmond Hill; Thornton, of Whitby, and others, all of whom have gone to their reward. In October, 1841, the Rev. Mr. Christie, in a letter to the United Secession Church Magazine, says amongst other things : "The newly formed congregation at St. Catharines are anxious for the settlement of a Pastor and offer c£80 a year, and promise if a settlement is effected to pay the whoh^ salary." In the early part of January, 1842, Rev. John Porteous, from the United Secession Church of Scotland, anived in St. Catharines and preached to the recently formed congre- gation on the second and third Sabbaths of that month with much acci»ptan«'e and was 8. fallod to bo tht»ir Pastor, but owiiiff to the arraiiflfomeut with the Church that sent him out he \vu8 not permitted to a«'i't'pt a call until he had performed six months* mission- ary service, consequently he was not induct- ed until the 7th December, 1842, when he was placed in charge of the congregation by the llev. Mr. llitchie, of Ayr. The congregation at that time was com- posed of members resident in Thorold and Port Dalhousie as well as St. Catharines, and worshipped in the room in the Grantham Academy formerly occupied by the Episco- palians. Steps were soon taken after the settlement of Mr. Porteous lor the erection of a place of worship. A lot was purchased on Centre street and a small brick church erected capable of seating between 250 and 800 people, and was opened for public wor- ship on the fourth Sabbath of June, 1844, by the late Mr. Fletcher, of Chippawa. In 1845 Mr. Walter Mitchell was added to the Session, but moved to Hamilton in 1846. Steps were taken the same year to establish weekly prayer meetings in various parts of the congregation. The following were the districts : St. Catharines, Thorold, Ten Mile Creek, (now Homer), Mr. Lawrie's and Port Dalhousie. Mr. Porteous continued to the tit him a call tiHHion- iiduct- leii he ;ion by ,8 com- Id and es, and intham Episco- ter the .^tion of used on church 50 and V wor- 844, by added ton in ^'ear to various owing iiorold, iwrie's tiuued 9. to li})or with <»reat huccohh, having increased the communion roll from 37 at the time he waH inducted to 100 durini^ hi« ministry. Mr. PorteouH resigned his charge in August, 1847, was translated to Kirkwall, in th»» Township of Beverly, where he labored for many years, retired from the active duties of the ministry in 1882 and is spending the rest of his days in Gait. His absence from the Jubilee services was a great disappointment, and hit would most undoubtedly have })een present hud he not been prostrated for the five weeks previous with a severe attju'k of grippe, but it is to be ho})ed he may soon recover and enjoy a littlc! lony-er that quiet rest he has so richly earned after the many long years in the service of his Lord and Master. , • The Rev. Alex. Henderson, who arrived from Scotland the same year, was called by the congregation to succeed Mr. Porteous, and was inducted as Pastor by the Rev. R. Torrance, of Gruelj^h, on the 24th Novem- ber, 1847. In 1849 an addition of three was made to the Session, viz.: John Denton and John Blair, of Port Dalhousie, and Wm. Warner, of Thorold. Mr Henderson labored with much success until the fall of 1850, when he 10. resided his charge and returned to Scotland. The cougreffation was then without a regular Pastor until the 28th April, 1852, when the Rev. John McClure was ordained and inducted as minister of the congregation. The following is the minute of Session in reference to the matter: " U. P. Church, St. Catharines, 28th April, 1852 Session met and was constituted by Rev. Mr. Hogg, of Hamilton, as Moderator of Presbytery pro tem. Present with him, Messrs. Roy, of St. George, and Christie, ot Chippawa, with Dr. Aberdeen Elder, and of the Session Messrs. Lawrie, Dougan, Blair and Denton. The Rev. John McClure having been this day ordained to the pastoral charge of the church in this place, was introduced by the Moderator to the other members of Session and took his seat as Moderator of the same." In the fall of 1852 a jietition from the members of the congregation residing in and around Port Dalhousie was forwarded by the Session to the Flamboro Presbytery, praying to be organized into a congregation separate and distinct from that of St. Cathar- ines. The prayer of the petition was granted and Port Dalhousie congregation was organ- ized with thirty-two members and Messrs. John Denton and Tohu Blair Ruling Elders. 11. I810I1 in On the Srd April, 1853, the following min- ute of Session is recorded : "The Moderator laid on the table a petition from the station in Thorold to the Flamboro Presbytery, praying to be organized into a congregation separate and distinct from that of St. Catharines, and to receive a supply of preachers with the view of calling one to be their Pastor, and requested on the part of the Thorold Station that the same be trans- mitted to the Flamboro Presbytery at its first meeting. The Session having considered the petition unanimously granted the request, and we hereby transmit said petition to the Presbytery with recommendation to grant the prayer of the same." . . ' The congregation was subsequently organ- ized with forty-nine members. Mr. McClure resigned his charge in the summer of 1854, having only remained as Pastor for two years and three months. He retired from the Ministry and accepted a position as teacher in a Grrammar School in a neighboring locality. ■ After the resignation of Mr. McClure the congregation resolved to call the Kev. Archi- bald Cross, who had supplied the pulpit with great acceptance, but as the Flamboro Presbytery did not meet in time to have the 12. 1 I call presented, Mr. Cross aefepted a call to lugersoll. The congregation was disappoin- ed and very much dissatisfied with the action of the Presbytery in not having the matter pushed through more rapidly. . . _ < Previous to this tim.' a number of members of the Free Church had settled in ?^t. Cath- arines. Among others raay be mentioned the names of Robert Struthers, Andrew Henderson, Wm. McGrhie and A. Mitchell, who had worshipped in the U. P. Church, and Avould have been satisfied to remain in connection with it had Mr. Cross been settled as its Pastor, but not getting him they resolved to petition the Hamilton Presbytery of the Canada Presbyterian Church in con- nection with the Free Church of Scotland for a supply of sermons and for orgiinization as a congregation. The prayer of the petition ^vas granted and on the 24th October, 1854, the Rev. Br. Irvine, from Hamilton, preached in the Town Hall and organized the con- UTegation. On the 23rd January, 1855, an application trom the U. P. congregation of Port Dalhousie was made to the newly formed congreuation in 8t. Catharines for sermon every Sabbath afternoon, for Avhich they would pay $300 per annum, which application Avas gTanted. 13. On the 10th PVbruary, 1855, the folio wiug minute is recorded : "At a conference of a special (committee composed of Gents James Lawrie and Wil- liam Boles on behalf of the U. P. Church of Canada, and James Dougan, Wm. McGhie and W. F. Hubbard on behalf of the Canada Presbyterian Church at St. Catharines, to consider the question of union of these two respective congregations, it was cordially agreed upon : First, that on behalf of the two societies we hereby agree upon a union to compose one church and congregation in con- nexion Avith the Hamilton Presbytery of the Canada Presbyterian Church. Second,that this congregation as united shall occupy the brick church formerly occupied by the I'ongrcga- tion of the U. P. Church, assume the debt upon the property and upon the congrega- tion, and that the deed be transferred to Trustees to be elected out of the joint «'on- gregations. Third, that a meeting of this said congregation be called upon the first Sabbath of service in the brick church for the purix)se of electing Trustees to obtain a title of the church to be vested in the said congre- gation in connexion with the Canada Presby- terian Church in St. Catharines, and also to elect a Committee of Management, and that 14. this meeting of the congregation be held on Wednesday, 2l8t February, at 3 o'clock p.m." At this congregational meeting the follow- ing gentlemen were elected as Trustees: W. F. Hubbard, Wm. Boles and James Dougan, to hold the property of this congregation. The following gentlemen were elevated Managers: A. Henderson, R. Struthers, J. H. Walker, Wm. McGrhie, Robert Leeper, James Currie and James Lawrie. Messrs. Currie and McGhie were appointed a committee to draw out a form of constitution for the con- gregation and submit the same for approval at the next congregational meeting. The con- stitution was drawn out and submitted and adopted and remains as the constitution ot the congregation to the present time. The following were the first Board of Trustees or Managers elected under the new constitution : James Dougan, W. F. Hubbard, Robert Struthers, James Gr. Currie, Wm. Boles, Andrew Henderson and Archibald Mitchell, and thus was completed a union of two congregations which proved to be an omen or forerunner of the glorious union of the two Churches referred to which took place in 1861, or that still more glorious union in 1875,making one great Presbyterian Church in Canada from the Atlantic to the Pacific ocean. pi- te ¥ >%■ 15. On the 9th April, 1855, at a meeting of the congregation, it was resolved to petition the Hamilton Presbytery for a moderation to a call of a minister for the congregation. The prayer of the petition was granted and the moderation took place the 25th April, 1855, in favor of the Rev. R. F. Bums, of Kingston. The call was signed by eighty members and adherents and accepted by Mr. Bums and he was inducted as Pastor of the congregation on the 11th July, 1855. Although a union of the two congregations had been effected still there was some feeling exis^ ' :g among some of the members both of r ootarian and national character. But from the kind, genial, loving manner of Mr. Burns he soon succeeded in winning the hearts of all and even one who refused to irontinue a member of Session under the new arrangement very soon became one of his warmest and most devoted friends. Mr. Burns was also ably assisted by his devoted and loving wife. She was in very truth a helpmeet to him and also to the congregation, throAving her whole energies into church work, organizing a Ladies' Aid Society, a Church Choir, and was a most devoted and faithful teacher in the Sabbath School. "Tr ■-■ ; r ' . *< JJ i UUV » 16. Ou the 19th December, 1855, James Dougan was inducted aud W. F. Hubbard ordained as Ruling Elders of the congregation. On the 28th June, 1857, Mr. Hubbard resigned on his removal to Ashtabula, Ohio, and the following minute of Session was recorded: " The Session agreed to record their warm regard for Mr. Hubbard personally, their grateful appreciation of his services while a member of Session, their deep regret at being compelled to part with him, their earnest prayer that the divine blessing may largely attend him and his in the new sphere to which they are about removing." On the 16th May, 1860, John Lawrie, sr., formerly an elder of the United Presbyterian Church of this place, and Petor Christie, formerly an elder of the Canada Presbyterian Church in Niagara, were inducted as Ruling Elders of this congregation. Mr. Burns had not been settled but a few years over the congregation before it was found desirable and necessary to have a larger building for a church and placed in a more prominent locality. Steps were taken to carry out the wishes of the congregation and the present building was erected and opened for public worship on the 20th day of May, 1860, Pro- fessor Young, of Knox College, Toronto, <\ iir warm 17. preae'hing morning and evening and Mr. Erdman, of the American Presbyterian Church, in the afternoon, the church and lot having cost about $6,000. The following minute of Session is recorded on the 7th March, 1862: "The Moderator stated that the Ladies' Aid Association in connection with the con- gregation had presented them with a very handsome communion service, consisting of four silver plated cups and plates and flagon with baptismal font. The Session hereby tender hearty acknowledgments to the Ladies' Aid Association for this accept- able gift, and agree to present our present service and font to the sister congregation at Port Dalhousie." On the 13th September, 1863, Mr. John Lawrie, sr., was removed by death, and on the 22nd of the same month, being the first meeting of Session after his death, the fol- lowing minute is recorded : " The Session unanimously resolved to place on record their high regard for the ven- erable deceased and their deep regret that they will no longer be privileged to take sweet counsel with him here. Mr. Lawrie was distinguished for his shrewd sense, his sterling integrity, and his unaffected piety. •77 18. He rank^'d as one of the founders of the Pres- byterian eause in this phure, and has all along been one of its most able and devoted support- ers. Bereft as we have been of his kindly presence and sage (counsel, Ave desire to ' go and t(;ll Jesus,' imploring a double portion of His spirit, and that W(^ may have grare to act on th(^ message sent us from his death- bed by our venerable friend : 'whatsoever thy hand fmdeth to do, do it with thy might; be ye also ready.' They would convey their tender- est sympathy to her who is a Avidow indeed and desolate, deprived in her detaining years of him who for more than half a century proved to be a faithful and true yokefelloAv. They would affectionately commend her and all the members of the family to a covenant keeping Grod, prayiug that He Avho is the Father of the fatherless and the Husband of the widow, their fathi^r's God and their own, may overshadow all their homes, and that they and AVe througl grace may be permitted to resume in th;^ blotter country the inter- course thus temporarily suspended in this AA^ldeniess state." On the 11th December, 1863, the folio A\'ing minute is also recorded : *' Having just returned from committing to the dust the remains of Mr. AndreAV Hender- son, the lUithtul Tivasurer of th«» congregation since its formation, the Session desire to record their devout acknoNvledgment of the hand of God in this sohnnn dispensation and their deep regret at the loss they have sus- tained. The kindness of heart, urbanity of manner and honesty of purpose \vhi«'h mark- ed our deceased friend secured for him the affectionate esteem of all who knew him, and have made his sudden removal a subje«'t of lamentation throughout the community at large. The painstaking diligence and con- scientious fidelity with which the duties of his office were discharged will never })e for- gotten by us. In connection with our last «'ommunion season we were I'alled upon in the Providence of God to mourn the taking from us a venerable Elder, and now. before another communion, one not less useful and faithful in the department assigned him has been removed. The Session would further record their sympathy with the bereaved widow and fatherless children, and would cordially commend them to Him who has promised to be a Father to the fatherless and the Husband of the widow in His holy habitation." On the 29th January, 1864, Robert Lawrie was inducted as Ruling Elder of the congre- 20. ^:atioii, hf having bet'ii lormerly a m('inh«»r oi' the Session of Port Dalhousio ooiinfrejuration. On the same day IVter Christie tendered his resignation of the office of Elder and Session Clerk on account of his removal from town. "The Session unanimously resolved to record their deep reg-ret at being necessitated to receive the resignation of their mu«'h respected brother. During the period of his connection with us, Mr. Christie has en- deared himself exceedingly to the Session and the Church by the kindness of his dispo- sition, the consistency of his deportment and the usefuhiess of his labors. As Clerk of Session and Superintendent of Sabbath School he has discharged the duties devolving upon him with much fidelity and success. The Session would affec^tionately commend their beloved brother to the care of a I'oven- ant keeping God, praying that wherever his lot may be cast he may be abundantly bless- ed in all the relations he sustains to the world and the Church." Robert Lawrie was appointed Clerk of Session in room of Mr. Christie. During the three years following the congregation con- tinued to prosper in all the departments of Church work, but in January, 1867, they were grieved to learn that a call was to be 21 presented to their beloved pastor from the First Scotth Presbyterian Chnreh ol' Chit-ago, and that it would come before the Presby- tery at an early day. A speeial meeting oi the congregation was held on the 24th Janu- ary, 18t{7, to take into consideration reasons why their beloved pastor should not be re- moved and to appoint delegates to urge the reasons before the Presbytery. Amongst the reasons adopted by the eon^vregation the following may be mentioned: (1.) "That when the Rev. R. F. Burns, D. D., was inducted to the pastoral charge of this congregation in 1855, it was then in a very disorganized state, nearly half being in favor of keeping up their connection with the United Presbyterian Church. The con- gregation being composed also of nearly equal parts of Scotch and Irish Presbyterians considerable feeling existed, not at all in har- mony with the teachings of the Great Head of the Church, but through the peculiar talents and kind, winning manners of their esteemed pastor these feelings of nationality were subdued and a union of heart and soul affected in the congregation which has proved to be but seed of that great union which has since been so happily consum- mated by the two great bodies of the Pres- 22. })ytoriaii Churoh in Canada. (2.) That his miniNturial HurviiM».s are peculiarly atM;eptabl(^ and hij^hly appnn'iated by his iroui^roi^ation. (3.) That from the catholic spirit, ardent zeal, lifenuine philanthrophy, sterlini*; piety and kind, trourteous. Christian deportinn«fn'i»'ji- titm, hut his num. Tons IViiMuls in this 1<»- »'ii litv. The Rt»v. 1). Iniilis, of Hamilt on, was iipp( tinted Mo(h'rator of the session durinii' the vaeancy. At the lirst meetinii* of thi' Session after Dr. Hums' nMnoval thi? followinii- resolution was adopted hy the Session and the (Merk recpiested to transmit a i^opy of the same to the Rev. Dr. Burns, (-hieaji^o. • ' "The Session at this its first meetinir since the iranshition of their liidoved moderator, the Hev. Dr. \i. F. Burns, to Chieai»o. (h'sire to pUu*e on record their deep sense of the ••Teat loss sustained hy this i'oni»Tei»'ation in his removal from their midst. They desin* to express their hi«»*h appreciation ol the zeal, tidelitv and Christian courtesv that marki'd his conduct durinii' the period of twelve years as pastor of this «'onL»Te<>ation ; his earnest and accei)table pulpit labors, his valued visitations from house to house, his unre- mittinii" attention to the sick, the sutferin<»- and the dyinu*, and his special labors among the young of the t^oniiregaticm, all of whiih have by the blessing of G^od contributed in a high degree to the prosperity, consolidation and present harmony of the congregation. They Avould further record the sincere :,» - ■ . '. ■ ■ 24. pleasure they enjoyed in associating with him from time to time as member of Session and the unanimity that has ever character- ized their meetings while engaged in delib- eration concerning the spiritual welfare and prosperity of the church. While regretting his departure to another sphere they follow him with their earnest prayers and sincere wishes for his spiritual welfare and success in winning souls to Christ, and that at last when called to the presence of his Master to render his account, he may be found among the number of those who shall shine as the brightness of the firmament and as the stars for ever and ever." A similar resolution was moved by Mr. Fisher Monro and seconded by Capt. James Norris at the annual meeting of the congre- gation held on the 8th March, 1867, and passed unanimously. Mr. Burns removed from St. Catharines to Chicago on the last of February, 1867, after a most successful pastorate of nearly twelve years. Great regrets have been expressed by his many friends that he was not present at the Jubilee services, and still more so that ill health Avas the cause of his absence, but they earnestly pray and trust under the blessing of God the complete rest and change ordered •iating with er of Session 3r character- fed iu delib- welfare and le regretting thev follow and sincere and success that at last lis Master to bund amonu* shine as the as the stars v^ed by Mr. Capt. James the congre- 1867, and atharines to 1867, after irly twelve xpressed by present at so that ill 3e, but they e blessing ge ordered 25. by his physician will restore him to his former health and that ho may yet be spared to labor for many years in the glorious Avork to which his life has been devoted. The church being now vacant the pulpit was supplied Avith various ministers, and on the 30th of June the Lord's Supper was dispensed by the Kev. Dr. Cochrane, of Brantford, and Avas a most enjoyable season to the members of the congregation. At a m(»eting of the congregation held on the 16th of September, 1867, it Avas resolved to petition the Hamilton Presbytery "to take such steps as aa^II enable the congregation to present a call to the minister of their choice at as early a day as possible," and the folloAving Avas -ilso placed on record: "That this congregation desires to express its gratitude to the Reverend rres})ytery of Hamilton, as also the Jiev. D. Inglis, of Ham- ilton, Moderator of Session, for the regular and efficient pulpit supply during the vacancy." The Presbytery of Hamilton granted the prayer of the petition and the Kev. George Burson, Avho had been supplying the puli)it of the Central Church, Hamilton, during the absence of its pastor, the Rev. Dr. Ormiston, Avas unanimously called to be the pastor of n^ in ! m 26. this congregation. Mr. Burson having accepted the call, was inducted on the 22nd of October, 1867, as the following minute of Session shows : "On Tuesday, the 22nd day of October, 1877, after the induction of the Rev. Greorge Burson as pastor of this congregation, thi^ Session met in the vestry sederunt, Rev. I). Inglis Moderator pro tern. Rev. George Burson, James Dougan and Robert Lawrie, Elders; James Norris, Andrew Jeffrey, Archibald Mitchell, William Boles, James Lawrie and Robert Sword, Managers. Session constituted with prayer by the Moderator. The Rev. D. Inglis introduced the Rev. Oeorge Burson as Moderator of Session; Mr. Burson took his seat as Moderator ot th^ same. The Managers present paid to Mr. Burson the sum of $250.00, being the first quarter's stipend, in advance. Session closed with the benediction." It may be remarked here that of those present on the occasion above rt^ferred to only one-half remain alive. One of the ministers, the Rev. D. Inglis, has gone to his reward, and one Elder, James Dougan, and three of the Managers, William Boles, James Lawrie and Robert Sword. Three remain in the same official positions — Rev. George 21. Bursou, Minister; Robert LaAvrie, Elder; James T^ orris, Manager; Mr. Andre av Jeffrey beinor now an honored Elder in the Central Presbyterian Church in Toronto, and Mr. A. Mitehell having retired from the board of management. Considerable increase in the congregation was now taking place, so that at a meetintr of Session in July, 1869, they resolved to call the attention of the trustees to the want of church accommodation. In February, 1870, the Session asked the congregation for three additional members and the following ^vere unanimously elected to the office: Wm. Jeffrey, Joseph Reid and John McCalla, but they having declined to accept the office the Session was still left with only two Elders. On the 15th March, 1871, the following resolution was passed : "It Avas moved by Robert Struthers and seconded by James Norris, that the Session be requested to permit the introduction ol a musical instrument to aid in psalmody, and also the hymn book authorized by the Canada Presbyterian Church," and at a meeting of Session in July, 1871, permission was granted to use a musical instrument as asked for by the congregation, but thev deemed it unadvisable to take any steps at 28. present for the introdviction of the hyniU book. In 18*72 the congregation was much grieved to hear of the sndden and unexpected remov^al of Mr. James La^vrie, who ^vas a much respected member of the congregation, a member of the Board of Trustees for many years, and Treasurer of the congregation at the time of his death. In the summer of that year Mr. Lawrie paid a visit to his native laud and on his passage home Avas taken with ship fever. On his arrival at Quebec he was removed to the Marine Hospital, accompanied by his wife, who met him there. The writer was telegraphed for, Avho arriv^ed two days before his death, which took place on the 8th September. Ilis body was brought home and laid in our beautiful cemetery where so many of those who were once the active members of our congregation sleep their last sleep. Mr. Lawrie Avas of a kind, genial and obliging disposition, greatly beloved and esteemed not only by the mem- bers of the congregation but by all Avho had the pleasure of his acquaintance. His funeral was largely attended and many regrets expressed at his early removal. In 18*73 the Session again asked the con- gregation for an addition of five to their 29. number. The live Avere elected but only two accepted office, James B. Grey and John K Black, who were ordained to the office of Ruling Elder on the 14th May, 18t3. In June, 1873. a petition was presented to the Session asking to take steps to introduce the English Presbyterian Church Hymn Book in addition to the present Psalmody, which was granted and the hymn book aski'd for introduced. In November, 1873, the Session divided the. congregation into districts and assigned Elders to each. The same year steps were taken for the enlargement of the church, and in 1874 the work Avas «-ompleted and the church enlarged to its present size at a <'ost of nearly ^5,000.00. At the annual meeting of the congregation in January, 1875, it Avas resolved the church should have a name, as heretofore from its organization it had only been knoAvn as the Scotch Presbyterian Church. It Avas moved by R. LaAvrie, seconded by AVm. Boles, that this church be called Knox Church. James Norris, seconded by AudreAA' Johnson, moved in amendment that it be called St. AndreAv's Church. Another amendment Avas moved bA' MrsR. LaAA'rie, seconded bA' Mra James Norris, that this church be called St. John's 30. I !l il ■ ! Church. The two amendments being put to the meeting were lost and the motion carried declaring the name to be Knox Church. At the annual meeting of the congregation the following year a motion was passed increasing the pastor's stipend to $1,400.00. On the IGth June, 18*76, Mr. Wm. Smith, a most efficient member of the Board of Trus- tees, who had acted as Secretary for a length of time, after a period of illness was removed by death, and at the annual meeting of the congregation in January, 1877, the following resolution was recorded : "That this meeting express their deep regret in the great loss this congregation has sustained during the past year in the removal by death of Mr. William Smith, a most efficient member of the Board of Trustees, and express their heartfelt sympathy with the widow and widowed mother and son in the very great loss they have sustained, but fondly trust that their loss has been his infin- ite gain, and that a copy of this resolution be sent to the widow by the Secretary." On the 27th July, 1877, the congregation again sustained a severe loss by the death of Mr. Wm. Boles, who had for many years been an active and much respected member, and as before stated was, with James Lawrie, 81 the committee appointed by the U. P. eoii- greg'atioii to arrange the terms of union in 1855, and ever since that time had been annually re-elected a member of the Board of Trustees, showing the high esteem in Avhich he was held by the congregation. Mr. Boles was a pronounced Protestant and a staunch Presbyterian, but was of such a kind, genial and accommodating disposition that he had very many friends even among those with whom he dittered on religious and political grounds. He was a kind husband, an indulgent father and a good citizen. He left a widow (now deceased) and a large lamily, Avhich had the sincere sympathy of the congregation and the com- munity in the great loss they sustained. In 1882 the congregation was severely shocked by the sudden and unexpected death of Capt. J. C. Graham, who was cut down in the very midst of his days and business engagements. He was an esteemed and active member of the Board of Trustees, and his widow and family had the deepest sympathy of the congregation in their very sad bereavement. At a meeting of Session in March, 1883, the Ilev. George Bur.sou, Moderator, intimated his desire to visit his native land and to see 82. his agod mother, and would like three months' leave of absenee. The Session cor- dially agreed to his request, and appointed a committee to meet with the Board of Trustees to ascertain if they would pay for pulpit supply during his absence. The Trustees were not only willing to pay for pulpit supply, but were pleased to hear that it was the intention of Mr. Burson to visit his native land and his aged mother. During the absence of Mr. Burson the pulpit was supplied by Walter LaidlaAV^ a student, who gave great satisfaction to the congregation in his ministerial services, and is now a most valued pastor of a Presbyterian Church in Troy, N. Y. At the annual meeting of the congregation in January, 1885, the pastor's stipend was increased to $1,500.00, and at the annual meeting the year following, in 1886, a resolution was passed asking the Session to take steps for the introduction of the Fymnal instead of the Hymn Book then in use. The Session acceded to the request, and in due time the Hymnal was introduced and is used to the present time. The same year an arrangement was entered into with the First Presbyterian Church that both ministers should not take their holidays at the same 1 L like three f May, 1841, [) one of the king a warm ind temporal d was also a ernes of the m his labors ^gation desire ly with the [great loss of ist that each in so far as he followed Christ, and that a copy of this resolution be sent by the Secretary to the members of his family." Steps had been tak(»n previous to this by the young people of the congregation towards the purchase of a pip<; organ, and an amount of about $2,000.00 was subscribed towards the purchase of the same. A resolution was passed at a special meeting of thti congre- gation to purchase and place in the church a pipe organ for the use of the congregation, and a committee was appointed to carry the same into effect. At the annual meeting of the congregation the following report was made: "The young people of the congregation have been earnestly at work, and as a result of their exertions will shortly place a pipe organ in the church at a cost of about $2,600.00, the most of which sum has been subscribed, and a large amount already paid in." On the 11 th of October, 1889, the new organ was introduced with a grand organ recital by Fred. Archer, the renowned organist, and pronounced by him to be a very superior instrument. Its total cost, including water motor, was $2,650.00, which was paid for when completed. In March, 1888, the Session resolved to ask the congregation for an addition of four to I "I i ;HI I i! their number, and in response the fbllowinj^ four were elected: W. B. Alhin, llobert M(^Laren, Arch. Hodi^e and Thos. Davidson. Mr. W. B. Alhm, only, agreed to accept the offi(!e, and he was ordained to the ollice of Rulinir Elder on the 80th May, 1888. Efforts have been made from time to time by those in the congregation favorable to the purchase of a Manse, ])ut so far have not been successful, many in the congregation being of opinion that the debt of !«;2,000.00 still existing on thc^ church should be paid first. The congregation during the past year sustained a severe loss by the death of Mr. H. S. McCollum, a gentleman who during his life had contributed much valual)le inform- ation on the early history of the Pres])yterian Church in Canadi, particularly in this part of the country, the old Niagara District. Many extracts are made from his writings by the Rev. Dr. Grregg in his valuable "History of the Presbyterian Church in Canada." His widow has the entire sympathy of the con- gregation in her loneliness. This short sketch of our history would be very incomplete without a grateful reference to the valued assistance rendered to the Trustees and congregation by the Ladies' Aid 37. Society. An a matter of tact the congrepition would not have been in its prcHent prosperous condition had it not been for the self-sacri- liiring hibors of the hidies, for several times when the Trustees were pressed for money the ladies came to their assistan«'e. The chun^h had cost not less than $14,000.00, exclusive of interest and repairs, and the ladies had contributed the large sum of !|5,216.00. We thank God that in His inhnite mercy He has so blessed and encourajyed us in our Avork and that we have not been unmindful of the claims of others, as few (^on<»:regations, according to the number of their members, contributed more liberally towards the schemes of the Church or to other charitable and benevolent objet^ts. Our present esteemed pastot has now been with us nearly twenty-four years. Those he baptized in infancy when he t^ame among us are now the men and women of the Church, and though he has been called often and often to commit the remains of dear ones to the dust and to weep with those who weep, he has had mut'h to cheer and encourage his heart in the great work in Avhich he is engaged; and as his years increase his earnestness, devotion and spiritual power seem to be more fully developed. The I * I,' III iif 38. Session, also, being in full sympathy with him, strengthens his hands and encourages his heart. He is further greatly encouraged by the attendance at the Sabbath School and Bible Class. The Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor, the Women's Auxilliary of Foreign Missions, the Mission Band with their mite boxes, and also by the liberal amount con- tributed monthly in the envelopes for the missionary schemes of the Church; the tem- poral affairs being also ably looked after by an efficient Board of Trustees composed of some of the best business men in the city; and the very efficient choir so well managed and presided over by Miss L. May as organist, ably assisted by Mr. C. C. Macgregor and Miss Chaplin, second to none in the city — all these organizations greatly encourage both pastor and people to press on and do more than they have ever done, under the guidance and direction of t:i.e Grreat Head of the Church, to make Knox congregation a great power for good in the midst of the com- munity. The Jubilee sermons were preached by the Rev. Dr. Caven, Principal of Knox College, Toronto, on Sabbath, the 3rd May, 1891, and the celebration on the Monday 111 39. eiicourag-ed 1 School and evening following", of which the following report was published in the St. Catharines "Evening Star": " Sunday marked a memorable era in the history of Knox Church, St. Catharines. On the 2nd May, 1841, fifty years ago, the early church Avas organized, and on May 3rd, 1841 the first communion service was held. Mr. Robert Lawrie is the only member of the church alive to-day whose name was on the original communion roll. It was deemed fitting that the fiftieth anniversary of these events should be celebrated in some proper manner and a jubilee service was decided upon, in connection with which an effort should be made to relieve the church of all existing financial responsibility. The congregation entered into the work heartily, and as a result the morning and evening services were delightful in their character. The large edifi«'e was crowded on both occasions, many representatives of the other churches of the city being present. There was a profusion of llowers surround- ing the platform and pulpit, and on the front of the organ an evergreen motto was sus- pended: 'Jubilee, 1841-1891.' The pulpit was occupied morning and evening by Rev. Principal Caven, of Knox College, Toronto, 'inf '1 I II ' I ; |lll!lll II 11 nil' i| I 1 ;ii; 111 liiHliH 40. and his earnest, Christian discourses were listened to with great attention and interest by those present. The musical exer<'ises were bright and appropriate. In the morning Miss Walker, of Perth, who is studying music and har- mony at the Presbyterian College, Toronto, sang ' In Verdure Clad,' from Haydn's ' Creation,' and seldom has such cultured vocalization been listened to in St. Catharines. Her voice is wonderfully sweet and flexible and of good compass, enabling her to take the beautiful passages in the work admirably. In the evening Mrs. W. L. Hepton, of Leeds, England, daughter of Mr. R. McLaren, of this city, rendered Tiatti's ' Hymn to Grod the Father ' very beautifully, her full, rich voice completely filling the sacred edifice. In addition to these the choir sang anthems at each service, and the con- gregational singing was hearty .md bright. Miss Louie May presided at the organ with her usual skill. It is not our intention to-day to refer to the history of the church, as that will be a special subject in connection with the Jubilee exercises which will be continued this evening. The collection yesterday amounted to the magnificent sum of |2,041, being more li. 41. courses were and interest bright and ^iss "Walker, sic and har- ege, Toronto, )ni Haydn's ich cultured t. Catharines. and flexible her to take the work Mrs. W. L. ghter of Mr. ered Tiatti's beautifully, filling the ese the choir Lud the con- .'ind bright. organ with ) refer to the be a special he Jubilee tinned this y amounted , being more than tMiough to wipe out the entire drbt of the church. A brief synopsis of the pulpit service yesterday follows: The morning text was from Psalm Ixxxiv. 10, 'For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in thf tents of wickedness.' Many would seek to explain why the children of God formed this high estimate of public worship by attribut- ing regular attendance at church to lustom, sentiment or early education. Custom might have something to do with it. He did not need to deny that the man who had attended ])ublic worship for fifty years regularly, experienced a pleasure in keeping up the habit, but he denied that there were not other reasons deeper and more sacred. Chris- tians loved God's house because in its consecrated services the truth of Crod was l)roclaimed and impressed. ITnd(»r the old dispensation there was not much of direct inculcation of truth. There was the taber- nacle and temple service, which consisted mainly of a sacrifice in which victims ^vere presented and offered up by the priests. It was nearly iill symbolical, typical or ritual- istic. The more intelligent of the worshippers could see something of divine truth in this "^ h ' 'Xn ■1 :!:ll ! 'I si III i 42. service, but they were far behind our privileges since preaching as a function of public worship began. The cry was often raised that there should be more freshness introduced into the pulpit by varying the themes to suit the current topics ot the day. These topics would not hold the people together for fifty years. It was the truth which went into the heart and there was a charm about it of which the people of Grod never wearied. He did not mean the l)ald iteration of certain doctrines, but the great central thought should be G-od's love. When this ceases it ceases to be Christian preaching and loses its po^ver. We might discuss all these public, practical questions, but the great central thought should be redemption, God's gift of His Son and our Heavenly home, and if spoken by one who feels and loves them these truths would never be uninteresting. God's people found interest in these services because He manifests His po AVer of convin«'ing and converting sinners and edifying His own people and they see the work and its spiritual results. In times of religious barrenness we see little of this, but wht»n truth is proclaimed we see these results. The ministry of Peter and Paul was followed by Christian «-hurches springing up like magic and thousands 43. turning: to tho Lord. I i" an yont» says the gospel is eftete, and that conversions are not now taking" phu-e, he must say "no." The gospel still retained its power. God's grace was not confined to the sanctuary avails, but the house of God was the centre from Avhich living streams flow. Christian people love the house of God because they have, in their communion and sweet fellowship with God and the children of God, a social intercourse under the most hallo^ved auspices. The Church of God lays its healing hand on society and unites in sacred bonds all classes of the community. We read of Nihilism in Russia, Socialism in France, internecine strife between capital and labor, with com- munities divided into apparently incom- patible classes and interests. The meaning of all this was that a Christian brotherhood had not accomplished its work. Socialism could not arise in a Avarm. evangelical at- mosphere. Under the kindly, loving and gentle offices of the Christian church 'the rich and poor meet together, and the Lord is the maker of them all.' Before sitting down the rev. Principal re- ferred briefly to the special situation of the congregation of Knox church. Although almost a stranger, he was sure it must be a ■<,.r- ■:!i(ii ilii" ■ in Mill '] liii « II I i i 44. inattor of gTeat interest to them to know that they ^vere eelebratinj^- this jubilee. As they looked hack over the period that had passed since the church Avas organized fifty years ago, perhaps the first thought would be: What changes have taken place during that time? Ot the names that were on the roll when the first communion was celebrated in 1841, there Avas just one with them whose name appeared to-day. The loved ones whose presence seemed so necessary Avere all none. It was not necessary to inquire where; (Christ could ansAver that question. They had gont? to be Avith Him, AA^hich Avas far better. He did not knoAA' Avhether these departed ones Avere cognizant of Avhat Avas taking place to-day or to Avhat extent their knoAvledge of these things AA^as limited. There AA^as no impossibility and no improba- bility that this might be so, and by more than a fiction of the imagination he could repre- sent them as joying in our present joy and taking part in the celebration. When they thought of all those Avho had gone and the AA'^ork Grod had iccoraplished in and by them they should be impressed AA^ith feelings of deep gratitude, and deep humiliation as AA^'ell, because thev had not done all the Master Avas entitled to expect. They should seek noAV to 45. jm to know ronst'cratc themsolvos to the Lord and bo His wholly and forever. How many years yet remained to them, who can tell? The Mas- ter mig-ht soon call them to himself. This message should come to their hearts: 'What- soever thy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might.' Our opportunities here would soon come to an end. We should consecrate anew our hearts to the Lord and throw greater energy into our Christian lives, and thus receive a brighter welcome into that better land. When one thinks of the uncer- tainties of human life the only desirable and worthy object is to lead a life devoted to Grod- His prayer was for the banishment of the demon of unbelief which cuts the sinews of so many. H' unbelief found lodgement in the heart life would be a poor, weak exper- ience. We should dedicate life, energy, time, talent, all we have, to the service of the Re- deemer. Our time Avould soon come, and perhaps there was not one in the audience past middle life Avho would live to see the hundredth anniversary. The one great question which should concern all should be: Their relation to God and to the kingdom of the Redeemer. The evening discourse was based on John xiv. 16 : 'And I will pray the Father and i !li I HI i I M 46. He shall give you another Comforter, that He may ahide with you forever.' The Lord was just about to leave His discipiles when these words were spoken. In earlier periods He had droped hints of His near departure » but now the time was at hand. The disci- ples sincerely loved Him, and sorrow filled their hearts. In this great and wonderful farewell discourse, with His own sufferings and sorrows close at hand. Christ spoke noth- ing about Himself but only words calculated to cheer and sustain the weeping ones around Him. They were comforted because the time of separation was to be short, with heaven at the close of the day. If we reach heaven at last, and in a short time, the trials of this life are not worth taking into account. These disciples were also comforted, because during this short time of separation a blessed substitute was to be given them. We might take this promise to ourselves. Many were apt to think that the Comforter mentioned was one whose special providence it was to soothe the trovibled mind. It meant far more than this and covered the whole ground of the influence of the spirit of Grod on the believer, teaching, guiding, strengthen- ing and cheering him on his heavenly jour- ney. The spirit was a Comforter because it i; I'.i i 47. tauaht us about the Saviour. When the dis- ciples were first called they were very ignorant, but as the Lord's ministry pro- gressed in their hearts their knowledg«» ex- panded and grew. They tbllow(?d the min- istry of Christ and saw the principles of the Kingdom of G^od elucidated. If these dis- ciples needed that instruction, we need it to- day; we «-ould mak(^ no progress without it. All the knowledge we possess of divine things is precisely the knowledge that has been cer- tified to us by the Holy Ghost. The extent of the Spirit's teaching is the precise measure of our attainment in divine knowledge. A man of fair understanding could compre- hend the principles of the New Testament by reading it. The book is simple and com- prehensive ; but knowledge in its true sense means more than this. We cannot knoAV a thing without believing it. If the truth })e ours, as a possession forever, it must be certified by the spirit of God, and unlesss we have this we must live and die in darkness. When the spirit accomplishes this work in us we are comforted. A doubter might think till he was gray, but his doubts would remain until he went as a little child to God to be instructed. It is not through strength of intellect, but through a pure heart and ,'5i "Oil could not be n.»,l„ , u ^ '"''>' J"'i- B""yanW~o I'orft' "'"^ •^'">» J.eao,. duriiiff the fift ■"' "^"y '>*« « Bedford kil Th ^""' ^^ ^^»« held l»ayer aud VlL " of r* «"''*"'^ »« '» oom„.„uio„ ,vith° God 7t '""'■ P''"" "> tiaus in seasons ^f * '""'" '"'*« Chris- - sure as ,fe hav a^ Is" n ""' ,*^' '"''P aud enabled the Christ; '''«''<'"'• of death who died for us. "^ <"' Jesus The members of Kdot ,.!,. i. Won and many of the^vf J""'^ '■■onsrega- Monday even^?o^:L™ "rtt^rV"' ^" exercises in connection w^^ he^fb'^^^''"' augurated on Sundav Th '"'"^""' '"■ the nature of " mT„t Ju '?^''"« ^^^« i" or of mutual coL^I" ! ■ ^""''^'"''^^'"^ one, --ongratulation upon the past 49. history, present proNj)erity itiid lutiire pros- pects of Knox ehnreh. The ireedom from Sabbath restraint made the ])eople feel more at home in oliices of this kind, and an atmos- phere of satislaction borderinji^ on joy was ai)parent. A raised platform had been erei'ted in front of the pulpit and ehoir, and the beloved and now venerable pastor of the ehurch, Rev. Greorge Burson, relleeted in his good-natured face the hai)piness of his heart as he confronted the large audience present, surrounded by Rev. Principal Caven of Knox College, Toronto ; Rev. Robert Ker, rector St. George's church ; Rev. Isaac Tovell of the St. Paul Street Methodist church, Rev. W. J. Armitage of St. Thomas church, Rev. J. H. Rati'litfe of the First Pres])yterian chun^h. Rev. Jesse Gibson of the Queen Street Bap- tist church, and Rev. p]. B. Chestnut of the liaynes Avenue Presbyterian church. The proceedings were opened by the sing- ing of the familiar and favorite paraphrase beginning O God of Bethel, by whose hand Thy people still are fed, after which Rev. Isaac Tovell led in prayer, making special reference to the unity which prevails in the various Christian congrega- tions to-day, and voicing special thanks for 50. r the «^ood work which had Imm'ii tu't'omplishod in the churrh in whi«'h thoso prosciit weru gathered. Rev. Mr. Burwon road the h'SHon from Deut, viii. (;hap., and the choir I'ollowed with an anthem. Rev. Mr. lUirson madc^ a few introductory remarks in a happy strain. They were th(»re to-night, he said, to (uill to remembrance the past, and to express thanks to the Great Head of the church for the blessings of the present. There were memorable days in the history of individuals, nations and congrega- tions, and they had come to a memorable day in the congregational history of Knox «'hur(;h. They termed it a jubilee and they felt jubi- lant. One principle of the old Mosaic Jubi- lee was the obtaining of freedom from finan- cial obligations. They had not adopted the Mosiac principle in obtaining freedom, but had secured it through the common law of honesty by paying their debts, and he was pleased to announce that by the free will otferings of the congregation more than enough had been realized to wipe out the entire debt of the Church. He thought it would be wise if our church courts, supported by the assistance of our legislative bodies, could enatd laws which would allow no con- »l 51. gn'i>'ati()n to huikl and o\w\\ a rhunth unless it was paid I'or, ho that it ini^ht he conse- cratcd to the Master I'recdy. There was no necessity for the Chunrh oi' Christ hein«r in debt. 1I«' would not detain th«im with any remarks as to the history of thvJ ehuroh hut leave that duty to Mr. l?,oh(^rt Lawrie who was upon the platform armt;d with all the neeessary facets and documents. He had thrown his whole life and heart into the work and to his efforts, mainly, the success of the jubilee was due. in introducing Mr. Lawrie, the pastor paid a glowing tribute to that gentleman's constant zeal and interest in Knox Church an* I its work. Mr. Lawrie, on risipg, congratulated the congregation and offit^ers of the t^hurch on the hearty and liberal response given to the committee in wiping out their debt. He hoped they would now strive to obey the injunction of Paul to "owe no man any- thing," and trusted that the other part of his admonition to "love one another" would be fulfilled. It was a long time to look forward to 50 years, but not so ditfii^ult to look back over that period, particularly when we think of the vast changes, discoveries and improve- ments that have intervened. Fifty-four years ago he was on the ocean bound for America. 52. The voyage oc(;iipit*d seven weeks ; now the the journey was made in less than that num- ber of days. He came from New York to Buffalo on the Erie Canal, huddled with others on a canal boat, and it took eight to ten days to i-.over the distaneiv Now it could be ac«;omplished in as many hours, riding tjomfortably in pala<'c and sleeping cars. Among other changes and improvements were the introduction imd utilization of electricity, the telegraph, telephone, phono- graph etc.. and, keeping pace with these, there had also been great improvement in the facilities for the spread of the gospel. Fifty years ago the doors of the heathen nations were closed to the heralds of the cross; now almost every one of these countries was openly receiving missionaries and even many of the South Sini Islanders were sitting at the feet of Jesus. In 1887 — a memorable year in the history of Oanada owing to the rebi^Uion — his father and family settled on a farm on the Niagara road about tAVo miles out of St. Catharines. The late Mr. James Dougan had settled here about the same time. There were then but three denominations worship- ing in St, Catharines. The Episcopalians, whose church on Yate street on the site now occupied by the residence of Mr. J. D. Tait « >. 53. was ))urned in 1830, were worshipping Croti in a room in the old G-rantham A«nidemy, now our Collcg-iate Institute; the Methodists occupied a small frame building on the lot where their present magnili(U»nt building now stands on 8t. Paul street, and the Ameri<;an Presbyterians had erected a brick building in 1834, the best in the village. There was no S<'otch Presbyterian church then. A missioner named Angus Mcintosh preached in Thorold, Merritton, 8t. Cath- arines and I'ort Dalhousie, but there was no organization. Mr. Greo. McClotchie, a North of Ireland man, loi^ated in Clinton, preached in Grrimsby and occasionally in St. Cath- arines, l>aptizing the children when neces- sary, and perhaps there were some present for whom he had })erformed this olhce. His (Mr. Lawrie's) father, Mr. Dcmgan and a tew friends Avere then Avorshipping in the Ameri- can Presbyterian church, but they did not feel exactly at home. They did not like the way the hymns were sung ; objected to the principle of free communion, and in 1840 applied to the Flamboro presbytery lor a supply of sermons, and on the 2nd of May, 1841, his father and Mr. Dougan, as elders, with twenty-two other members, organized as a separate congregation, occupying the 54 same room in the Grautham Academy used by their Episcopal brethren. The new church ot the latter body, the present St. Greorffe's churc:h, was built in 1840. A Mr. Porteous of Scotland was the first minister called to the young church, but as he had to do six months' missionary work in the country before he could be inducted, it was not until Dec. 7, 1842, that he was settled. Till then they were supplied with occasional preach- ing by ministers from other parts of the Province. Mr. Porteous' ministry of five years was a great success. There were thir- ty-seven members in connection when he came and something over one hundred when he left on the third Sabbath of August, 1847, for Kirkwall. Mr. Porteous was anxious to be present to-night, but was prevented by illness. Steps were taken at this time to build, and a lot was purchased on Centre street at a cost of $300, and the brick build- ing, which is still standing, erected. The congregation heard a Mr. Henderson and he was inducted on Nov. 24, 1847, laboring with great success for three years, when he returned to Scotland at the desire of his young wife. He was still laboring there. The church was without a pastor till 1852, when Mr. John McClure was called and ^ T 55. settled. His miuistry was not sueressful and he only remained two years. At this time there was quite an addition to the «:on- gregation from those who had been connect- ed with the Free church, among whom wer«' Messrs. R. Struthers, A. Henderson, William McGrhie, A. Mitchell and others, all of whom took an active interest in the church work. They procured a supply of sermons, alter- nating Free Church and U. P. discourses. It was then agreed that if a Mr. Archibald Cross was called the Free Church supply should be be stopped. Through some bung- ling in the Presbytery Mr. Cross had accepted another call. Great dissatisfaction arose, out of Avhich grew the union accomplished in 1854. (Here Mr. Lawrie read from the old records giving the particulars of this union and establishing the right of «'ontinuity in the present church.) A constitution was drawn up and is still the constitution of the present church. The union was perfected on Feb. 1, 1855 and failing to get Mr. Cross a call was extended to Kev. R. F. Burns, of Kingston, on July 11. 1855, and he remained for 12 years doing a grand Avork, smoothing out the little differences and disagreements existing. No better man could have been selected to unite the dis«'ordaut elements hi 56. among the adherents of the Free Church and the U. P's and his genial, happy nature won all their hearts. The union then affected was the forerunner of the union of the two bodies in 1861 and the still greater union of the whole body of the Presbyterian Church in Canada in 18t5. The old brick church was soon found to be too small and the present church was built and opened on July 20, 1860. Mr. Burns and his devoted wife labored earnestly and faithfully, the latter organizing the Ladies' Aid Society and the choir, which used to be furnished with the key note by his old friend, Mr. Struthers, from his tuning fork. Grreat regret was felt when Mr. Burns severed his connection in February, 1867, after twelve years ministry, and left for Chicago. There was a vacancy lor a few months, until Oct. 22, 186*7, when a unanimous call was extended to the present pastor. Rev. George Burson, who was then supplying the Central Church in Hamilton. After the service of introduction was over the officers and pastor repaired to the vestry, where Mr. Burson was paid his first quar- ter's salary in advance. Of those who were then present three of the managers, one of the elders and one of the ministers were dead, just half of the original number. They all 57. knew the history of the church since then. It continued to prosper and go forward. With the corning of his gray hairs the spiritu- ality and power for good of their beloved pastor seemed to increase, and he was more and more earnestly devoted to his work. He trusted the elders would continue to hold up his hands and en4. James B. (xray, Elder: ordain«'d May 14, 1878. John K. Black, Elder; ordained May 14, 1873. William B. Allan. Elder; ordained May 30, 1888. *Since the foregoino- was written Capt. James Norris, after a linsivring- illness, died ou the 1st August, 1891. r I I