MINUTES
OF THE
Synod of JYortH Carolina,
W' ' J •?#V-
AT THEIR
anirf-iimHi sissshbhs,
J jfljta,
* HELD IX
F A IE TTEVIL LJE,
November 3d, 4th, ®th> and 6th,
FAYETTEVILLE :
PRINTED BY EDWARD J. HALE.
1848.
THIRTY-FOURTH SESSIONS
OF THE
stocsde) ©w ^©IESIH ©^©HaW&Q
Synod, having stood adjourned, to meet on the evening of Wednesday
the 27th of October, 1847, at 7 o'clock; and the Moderator, after con¬
sultation and reflection, having judged it expedient, from considerations
of humanity, benevolence, and convenience, to change the time of meet¬
ing, by the postponement of a week; and he having given public notice
of this change, Synod accordingly met, in the Presbyterian church of
Fayetteville, oii Wednesday, the 3d of November, 1847, at 7 o'clock,
P. M., agreeably to the appointment of the Moderator.
A sermon was delivered, by The Rev'd Mr. Drury Lacy, the Modera¬
tor of Synod, from Isa. xxxiii. 6.: "And wisdom and knowledge shall be
the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the Lord
is his treasure."''' .
Constituted with prayer.
PRESENT,
Of the Presbytery of Orange, The Rev'd Messrs. Eli W. Caruthers,
Thomas Lynch, Drury Lacy, Gilbert Morgan, William N. Mebane,
Edward Hines, Jacob Doll, and Anderson G. Hughs; and Mr. William
S. Rankin, Ruling-Elder:
Of the Presbytery of Concord, The Rev'd Mr. Walter S. Pharr; The
Rev'd Samuel Williamson, D. D.: and The Rev'd Messrs. William A.
Hall, Albertus Leander Watts, and R. H. Laffarty; and Mr. Silas Orr,
Ruling-Elder: and
Of the Presbytery of Fayetteville, The Rev'd Messrs. Colin Mclver,
Samuel Paisley, Arch'd McQueen, William N. Peacock, Hector Mc¬
Lean, Hector McNeill, Arch'd Smith, Hugh McLaurin, Frederick K.
Nash, Arch'd Baker, Hugh A. Munroe, Neill McKay, Colin Shaw,
Andrew McMillan, Angus C. McNeill, Daniel Johnson, and Arch'd D.
Campbell; and Messrs. Harvey Leete, David McNeill, Arch'd Ray,
William N. Whitted, William S. Andres, and Lemuel D. Cameron,
Ruling-Elders.
ABSENT,
Of the Presbytery of Orange, The Rev'd Messrs. William Paisley,
Ezekiel B. Currie, and John H. Pickard; The Rev'd John Wither-
spoon, D. D. LL. D.; The Rev'd Messrs. Elisha Mitchell, Arch'd jf).
Montgomery, and Jesse Rankin; The Rev'd Nehemiah H. Harding*:
D. D.; and The Rev'd Messrs. George W. Ferrill, Robert Bur well,
Thomas R. Owen, James Phillips, Daniel G. Doak, John A. Gretter,
Daniel Stratton, William C. Sutton, Edmund C. Bittinger, and Arch'd
Currie.
4
Of the Presbytery ol^Concord, The Rev'd Robert H. Morrison, D. D.;
find The Rev'd Messrs. Henry N. Pbarr, Daniel A. Penick, Cyrus
Johnson, John Le Roy Davies, John S. McCutchab, Daniel Lindley,
Thomas P. Johnstone, James D. Hall, James E. Morrison, James M.
II. Adams, William N. Morrison, John M. Wilson, James t. W. tree-
man, Lemuel Murray, James Kerr, Elijah F. Rockwell, Samuel B. O.
Wilson, H. B. Cunningham, John E. McPhcrson, Walter W. Pharr,
and George M. Gibbs: and
Of the Presbytery of Fayetteville, The Rev'd Messrs. Robert Tate,
and John Melntyre; The Rev'd Simeon Colton, D. D.; and The. Rev d
Messrs. William Brobston, John R. Mcintosh, James O. Stedman,
Malcom Conoley, and Duncan Black.
The Rev'd Mr. Evander McNair was chosen Moderator; and The
Rev'd Messrs. Jacob Doll and Colin Shaw were appointed Temporary
Clerks.
Adjourned, to meet, in the Session-room of this church, on to-morrow,
at 10 o'clock, A. M.
Closed with prayer.
Thursday, November 4, 1847.
Synod met, according to adjournment. Present as above. Opened
with prayer. The minutes of last evening were read.
The minutes of the last Stated1 Sessions of Synod having been print¬
ed, and each member having been furnished with a copy thereof, the
reading of them was dispensed with.
The Rev'd William M. Atkinson, D. D., and The Rev'd Mr. Benja¬
min Gilderslieve, members of the Synod of Virginia, and The Rev'd
Mr. Henry R. Wilson, Jun'r, a member of the Synod of Northern In¬
dia, being present, were invited to sit, with this Synod, as correspond¬
ing members.
The Annual reports, from the Presbyteries, were produced; and be¬
ing read, were approved; and ordered to be recorded; and are as fol¬
low; viz:
1. The Presbytery of Orange report, to the Synod of North Carolina,
"that they consist of Twenty-seven Ministers; and have, under their care,
forty-three congregations, five licentiates, and six candidates:—and that,
since the date of their last report, they have ordained, sine titulo, to the
work of the Gospel Ministry, as an Evangelist, The Rev'd Mr. James
B. McBride; and dismissed him, with a view to a connexion with the
Presbytery of Holston; dissolved the Pastoral relation of The Rev'd Mr.
Daniel G. Doak, to the congregation of Clarksville; and dismissed him,
with a view to a connexion with the Presbytery of West Tennessee;
licensed Messrs. Addison Standfield and Pleasant H. Dalton, to preach
the gospel; received, as a member of their Presbytery, from the Pres¬
bytery of West Hanover, The Rev'd Mr. William V. Wilson; dissolved
the Pastoral relation of The Rev'd Mr. Edmund C. Bittinger, to the
5
congregation of Washington; and received, under their care, from the
Presbytery of Concord, Mr. Cyrus K. Caldwell, a Licentiate."
"Respectfully submitted, by order of the Presbytery."
(Signed.) "N. H. HARDING, Stated Clerk.
2. The Presbytery of Concord report, to the Synod of North Caroli¬
na, that they consist of Twenty-seven Ministers; and have, under their
care, Fifty-tive congregations, six licentiates, and one candidate: that,
on- the 8th of April, 1847, they received, as a member of their Pres¬
bytery, from the Presbytery of Chickasaw, The Rev'd Mr. J. A. Wal¬
lace; that, on the 9th of the same month, they dismissed Mr. Cyrus K.
Caldwell, a licentiate, to put himself under the care of the Presbytery
of Orange; that, on the 10th of the same month, they dismissed The
llev'd Mr. James Kerr, with a view to a connexion with the Presbyte¬
ry of Transylvania; that, on the feame day, they licensed Messrs. Thad-
deus C. Crawford, and Samuel C. Pharr, to preach the gospel; that, on
the 1st of June, 1847, they received, from the Presbytery of Bethel,
Mr. W. T. Savage, a licentiate; that, on the 14th of July, 1847, they
dissolved the Pastoral relation of The Rev'd Mr. John Le Roy Duvics,
to the congregation of Centre; that, on the same day, they dismissed
The Rev'd Mr. J. A. Wallace, with a view to a connexion with the
Presbytery of Harmony; and that, on the 23d of August, 1847, they re,
ceivedjfrom the Presbytery of Louisville, Mr. James Knox, a Licentiate."
"By order of Presbytery."
(Signed ) "JOHN S. McCUTCHAN, Stated Clerk.
3. "The Presbytery of Fayetteville report to the Synod of North Caro¬
lina, that they consist of Twenty-nine Ministers; and have, under their
care, forty-eight congregations, one licentiate, and three candidates:—
that, on the 25th of September, 1846, they restored, to the communion
of the church, and to the exercise of the functions of the gospel minis¬
try. The Rev'd Mr. Arch'd McQueen, who had been, for some time, under
a sentence of suspension; that, on the 14th of November, 1846, they
ordained, sine titulo, to the work of the gospel ministry, as an Evan-
gelist, The Rev'd Mr. Neill McDonald; that, on the 7th of February, 1847,
they ordained The Rev'd Mr. Hector McAlistar, Minister ofthe gospel, and
installed'him Pastor of the congregation of Rock-fish Factory;—that,
on the 9th of April, 1847, they received, under their care, the nevvly
organized church of Mount Edwards; that, on the 10th of April, 1847,
they dissolved the Pastoral relation of The Rev'd Mr. Evander McNair, to
the congregation of China Grove; and also dissolved the Pastoral rela¬
tion of The Rev'd Mr. Arch'd Baker, to the congregation of Laurel-hill.
"By order of the Presbytery."
(Signed,) "COLIN McIVER, Stated Clerk."
The following new members of Synod, as above reported, being pre¬
sent, took their seats1; viz: Of the Presbytery of Orange, The Rev'd
Mr. William V. Wilson; and Of the Presbytery of Fayetteville, The
Rev'd Messrs. Neill McDonald and Hector McAlisfer.
The Rev'd Robert H. Morrison, D. D., and The Rev'd Messrs.
Walter W. Pharr, Daniel A. Penick, James O, Stedmau, and George
M. Gibbs appeared in Synod; and having given satisfactory reasons lor
the lateness of their arrival, took their seats.
6
Mr. John F. Phifer, a Ruling-Elder from the Presbytery of Concord,
and Messrs. Duncan Murehison, Angus Baker, Neill McArthur, John
McLeod, and Murdoch Murphy, Ruling-Elders from the Presbytery of
Fayetteville, appeared in Synod; and took their seats, as members.
The Rev'd Messrs. Edward Hines, Albertus Leander Watts, Samuel
Paisley, Hector McNeill, and Hugh A. Muuroe, gave satisfactory rea¬
sons for their absence from the last Stated Sessions.
Communications, assigning reasons for absence from the last and
present Sessions of this Synod, were received, from The Rev'd Simeon
Colton, D. D., The Rev'd John Witherspoon, D. D., LL. D., and The
Rev'd Mr. John S. McCutchan. These communications were read;
and the reasons for absence therein given, were sustained, as satisfac¬
tory.
A communication was also received, from The Rev'd Mr. H. B.
Cunningham, which was read and considered. It contained his rea¬
sons for absence from the last and present Sessions of this Synod. His
reason for absence from the last Stated Sessions, was sustained as sat¬
isfactory. The latter part of his communication, containing his reason
for absence from the present Sessions, waS ordered to be recorded; and
is as follows; viz:
"My reason for absence, at the present meeting, is,—Because I be¬
lieve, firmly, that the meeting is unconstitutional,—in consequence of
the tnanner in which the time of meeting was changed. This is my
only excuse for absence, at this time; and I believe it to be sufficient.
If, however, Synod should think differently, and refuse to sustain my
excuse, I hereby authorise the Moderator to give notice, that I appeal,
from their decision, to the General Assembly."
"Yours in the Gospel."
(Signed,) "PI. B. CUNNINGHAM."
A communication was received, from Mr. Cook, Principal of the N.
Carolina Institution for the instruction of the deaf and dumb, respectfully
inviting this Synod, to witness an exhibition of some of the pupils of thai
institution, at 3 o'clock, this afternoon. The communication was read;
and the invitation therein contained, was unanimously accepted.
Mr. Lemuel D. Cameron obtained leave of absence, from the remain¬
ing Sessions of Synod.
The Rev'd Mr. Henry R. Wilson, Jun'r, by respectful and unani¬
mous iuvitation, addressed this Synod, and the congregation in attend¬
ance, on the subject of Foreign Missions.
The following committees were appointed; viz:
1. Of Bills and Overtures,—The Rev'd Messrs. Drury Lacy, Walter
S. Pharr, James O. Stedman, and Neill McKay; and Messrs. William
S. Rankin, David McNeill, and John F. Phifer, Ruling-Elders:
2. To review the records of the Presbytery of Orange,—The Rev'd
Mr. William A. Hall, and Mr. Duncan Murehison, Ruling-Elder:
3. To review the records of the Presbytery of Concord,—The Rev'd
Mr. Hector McLean, and Mr. Murdoch Murphy, Ruling-Elder:
4. To review the records of the Presbytery of Fayetteville,—The
Rev'd Mr. Edward Hines, and Mr. William S. Rankin, Ruling-Elder:
o. To take charge of such written statements on the progress of re-
7
ligion in the several churches under the care of this Synod, as may be
presented by the several Presbyteries; and to prepare a connected sum¬
mary of their contents, to be submitted to Synod, during the present
Sessions,—The Rev'd Messrs. Gilbert Morgan, Arch'd Baker, and
Walter W. Pharr; and Mr. John McLeod, Ruling-Elder:
6. To inspect the printed minutes of the last General Assembly of
the Presbyterian church, and make report of such articles therein, as
may be found to claim the attention of Synod,—The Rev'd Messrs.
Thomas Lynch, Anderson G. Hughes, and Arch'd D. Campbell:
7. To make arrangements for the various religious exercises, to be
observed, during the present Sessions of Synod,—The Rev'd Messrs.
Adam Gilchrist and Frederick K. Nash; and Mr. Harvey Leete, Ruling-
Elder:
8. Judicial committee,—The jRev'd Samuel Williamson, D. D., and
The Rev'd Messrs. Eli W. Caruthers and William N. Peacock; and
Messrs. William S. Andres arid HarVey Leete, Ruling-Elders.
The temporary clerks announced, that there had been put into their
hands, the following documents, to be submitted, for Synodical adjudi¬
cation; viz: An extract, from the minutes of the Session of Paw-Creek
church, touching the case of Mr. John Cathey, arraigned, before that
Session, on a charge of Incest, for marrying the sister of his deceased
wife; Mr. Cathey's Appeal, from the sentence of the Session, to the
Presbytery of Concord; extracts from the minutes of the Presbytery of
Concord, touching the same case; Mr. Cathey's Appeal, from the judg-
ment of the Presbytery, to this Synod; and a further document, contain¬
ing the reasons of his Appeal. These documents were put into the
hands of the Judicial committee, to be reported on, when examined.
The Annual Report of the Board of Directors of the Union Theologi¬
cal Seminary was received; and, being read, was approved; and ordered
to be recorded; and is as follows; viz:
"The Board of Directors of the Union Theological Seminary report
to the Synod of North Carolina, that, during the last year, they received,
as members of the institution, the following persons; viz:
"Pleasant II. Dalton, from Princeton Seminary,
"Alex'r Scott, Graduate of Jefferson College,
"F. N. Whiley, " " "
"Wm. Sheotz, " " "
"The whole number of students in the Seminary, during the last year,
has been fourteen.
"At the close of the present year, an examination of the students was
held, in the presence of a committee of the Board, which gave evidence
of proficiency on the part of the Students.
"Certificates, that they had completed a full course of Theological
studies, were given to the following six young gentlemen; viz:
"Pleasant H. Dalton, of Madison, North Carolina,
"Samuel C. Pharr, " Mecklenburg, "
"S. A. Stanfield, " Halifax, Virginia,
"Wm. Stodderf, " Prince William, "
"C. Read Vaughan, " Farmville, "
"J, M. Wilson, " Prince Edward, "
8
"The funds of the Seminary are not sufficient to meet its annual ex-
penses. At its present Sessions, the Board had under consideration,
the propriety of making a final effort for its complete endowment; and
resolved, that an Agent be appointed, to raise, for this purpose, in the
shortest possible period, Twenty thousand Dollars.
"The Directors for the Seminary, are,
"From the Synod of Virginia, Andrew Hart, Wm. S. White, B. M.
Smith, Wm. H. Foote, J. Leyburn, J. D. Ewing, and G. W. McPhail,
Ministers; and C. C. Read, A. G. Mcllwaine, W. A. Bell, and Dr.
Wm. S. Morton, Ruling-Elders:
"From the Synod of North Carolina, John A. Gretter, E. McNair,
H. N. Pharr, A. G. Hughs, Drury Lacy, A. Baker, Robert Burwell,
and A. L. Watts, Ministers; and Dr. W. W. Carrington, R. V. Wat-
kins, N. C. Read, and James Garland, Ruling-Elders:
"The Officers are,
"Rev'd Drury Lacy, President,
" Wm. H. Foote, D. D., 1st Vice President,
" J. A. Gretter, 2d " "
"Mr. C. C. Read, Secretary,
" F. N. Watkins, Treasurer.
"The Faculty are,
"Rev'd S. B. Wilson, D. D., Professor of Theology,
" S. L. Graham, D. D., Professor of Oriental Literature,
" F. S. Sampson, Assistant Instructer."
"Respectfully submitted."
(Signed,) "CLEMENT READ, Secretary."
The preceding report was committed to The Rev'd Messrs. Caruthers,
McLean, Nash, and Laffarty, and Mr. Phifer, with direction to report
thereon, during the present Sessions.
Resolved, that the consideration of the report of the committee, to
whom the subject of building up a Synodical College had been referred,
be made the order of the day, for to-morrow, at 11 o'clock, A. M.
The several Presbyteries submitted their reports on the progress of
religion within their respective limits; which were put into the hands
of the committee appointed to prepare a connected summary of the in¬
formation therein contained.
Synod proceeded to fill up the existing vacancies in the Board ofDi-
rectors of the Union Theological Seminary; and, for this purpose, the
following appointments were made; viz: The Rev'd Mr. Robert Bur-
well, and Mr. James Garland, whose term of service has expired, were
re-elected, members of the said Board, to serve for the ensuing four
years; and, in the room of The Rev'd Mr. Albertus Leander Watts,
whose term of service has also expired, The Rev'd Mr. Gilbert Mor¬
gan was elected, a member of the said Board, to serve also for the en¬
suing four years; and, in the room of Mr. Nicholas C. Read, who has
removed his residence from the bounds of this Synod, Mr. John I. Speed
was elected, a member of the said Board, to serve for the ensuing year.
The Presbytery of Orange, in obedience to the order of Synod, at
its last Stated Sessions, stated the causes of their delinquency, for the
three preceding years, in omitting to fin-ward their records, to this Sy.
nod, for review; and their excuse was sustained.
9
There was no report from the Trustees of Synod; nor could any mem*
ber present account for the absence of such report.
The committee on religious exercises recommended, that the Ser¬
mon, on Co)portage, to be delivered, before this Synod, by The Rev'd
Robert H. Morrison, D. I)., be delivered on Friday at 7 o'clock, P. M.,
and that the. Sermon, on Foreign Missions, to be delivered, before this
(Synod, by The Rev'd Mr. Evander McNair, be delivered, on Saturday,
at 7 o'clock, P. M. In this recommendation, Synod concurred.
The Rev'd Mr. John A. Gretter was appointed, to preach, before this
Synod, at its next Stated Sessions, a Sermon, oh the subjest of Col-
portage; and, in case of his necessary absence, The Rev'd Mr. Alber-
tus Leandeu Watts was appointed his alternate.
The Rev'd Mr. Neill McKay was appointed, to preach, before thia
Synod, at its next Stated Sessions, a Sermon, on the subject of Foreign
Missions; and, in case of his necessary absence, The Rev'd Mr. Frede¬
rick K. Nash was appointed his alternate.
Synod witnessed an interesting exhibition of some of the pupils of
the deaf and dumb institution; and, after some time spent, in attention
to several very satisfactory specimens of the progress in knowledge
made by said Pupils, Synod adjourned, to meet, at this place, on to¬
morrow, at 10 o'clock, A. M.
Closed with prayer.
Friday, November 5, 1847.
Synod met, according to adjournment. Present as above. Opened
with prayer. The minutes of yesterday were read.
The Rev'd Mr. John C. Coit, a member of the Synod of South Ca¬
rolina, being present, was invited to sit, with this Synod, as a corre¬
sponding member.
The Rev'd Mr. John R. Mcintosh appeared in Synod; and having
rendered a satisfactory reason for the latened3 of his arrival, took Ir.s
seat.
Mr. Arch'd Ray obtained leave of absence, during the remaining
part of-tlie present Sessions.
Mr. Charles W. Harris, a Ruling-Elder from the Presbytery of Con¬
cord, and Messrs. Bethitne McKenzie, Malcom McDonald, Henry El¬
liot, and Robert W. Gibbs," Ruling.Elders from the Presbytery of Fay-
etteville, appeared in Synod, and took their seats, as members.
A letter from The Rev'd William Henry Foote, D. D., respecting
his Historical Sketches of North Carolina, was received, read, and re¬
ferred to The Rev'd Robert H. Morrison, D. D., anil The Rev'd Messrs,
William V. Wilson and Hector McAlister, with direction to repott
thereon, with all convenient expedition.
The Rev'd William M. Atkinson, D. D., Agent for the General As¬
sembly's Board of Education, was heard, on the subject ©f his Agency.
Whereupon, The Rev'd Messrs. Penick, Mebane and Smith were ap-
2
10
pointed a Committee to confer with Dr. Atkinson on that subject, and
make report thereon, as soon as practicable. '
Agreeably to the order of the day, Synod took up the report of the
Committee, to whom the subject of building tip a Synodical College had
been referred. The report was read and accepted; and Synod resolved
itself into a committee pf the whole, for the consideration thereof,—The
Rev'd Mr. Lacy in the chair. After some interesting deliberation, hi
which the subject of Education, especially as it ought to be promoted
in Colleges, was held up prominently to view, the committee rose, re¬
ported progress, and asked leave to sit again.
The Judicial Committee reported case, No. 1, which was accepted,
and adopted; and the adjudication thereof was made the order of the
day, for to-morrow, at 9 o'clock, A. M.
The hearing of the report of the Treasurer of the Committee of Col-
portage, was made the order of the day for this afternoon, at 3 o'clock.
The several committees to whom the records of the Presbyteries had
been referred, respectively reported, that they had found the said re-
cords kept with care, neatness, and accuracy; and recommended, that
they be approved; which was accordingly done. The records of the
Presbytery of Orange were approved, to Page 11; those of the Pres¬
bytery of Concord were approved, to Page 99; and those of the Pres¬
bytery of Fayetteville were approved, to Page 418.
The committee, to whom the communication from The Rev'd Wil¬
liam Henry Foote, D. D., had been referred, reported; and their re¬
port, being read, was adopted; and is as follows; viz:
"The committee to whom was referred, a communication from The
Rev'd Dr. Foote, having considered the same, respectfully recommend
to Synod, the adoption of the following resolutions; viz:
"I. Resolved, that the Synod of North Carolina express, in grateful
terms, their obligations to The Rev'd Dr. Foote, for the able and faith¬
ful manner in which he has prepared the Sketches of the Presbyterian
Church, in this State, in compliance with their authority.
"2. Resolved, that the purpose of the Author, to appropriate, to the
cause of Education in North Carolina, the surplus funds, after the ex¬
penses of publishing and distributing said woik shall be paid for, mani¬
fests, on his part, a most disinterested and generous regard tor the ri¬
sing generation in the midst of us; which this Synod should highly and
thankfully appreciate.
"3. Resolved, that Synod recommend to all its members, to use their
•best efforts to secure a speedy sale of the whole edition,—demanded
'alike by the honour of the State, and a due regard for the labours and
sacrifices cheerfully submitted to by the Author, for the honour and
prosperity of the Presbyterian Church."
"Respectfully submitted."
"ROBERT II. MORRISON,)
(Signed,) "WILLIAM V. WILSON, } Committee."
"HECTOR McALISTER, )
Agreeably to the order of the day, Synod proceeded to hear the re¬
port of the Treasurer of the Committee of (Jol portage; which being
read, Was approved, and ordered to be recorded; and is as follows; viz:
11
i Report of the Treasurer of the Committee of Col portage, to the Syuod
of North Carolina, November 1847.
"The Donations received, per report, in 1845, amounted to $513
Ditto
in 1846,
Sugar Greek church, per Rev'd Mr. Laffarty,
Charlotte, per Rev'd Mr. Cyrus Johnson,
State,sville, per Rev'd Mr. E. F. Rockwell,
Ditto Sunday school Depository transferred by the
Stockholders, per ditto,
Bethany church, per Rev'd Mr. E. F. Rockwell,
*Concord Presbytery, per Rev'd Mr. S. B. O. Wilson,
" " Hooks transfer per Mr. Wilson, $124 16
Reduction on Catalogue prices, 7 29
97 15
$6 00
10 00
$610 67
Deduct for old almanacs,
116 K7
1 75
45
20 00
32 86
115 12
40 45
3 35
Church in Fayetteville,
Greensborough church, per Mr. Rankin, Treasurer,
James Martiue, Treasurer, transferred, by order of Fayetteville
Presbytery; of which sum, Antioch church gave, per Rev'd
Mr. Hector McLean, $4 50; and Philadelphus, $1 50,
147 98
19 45
12 00
8 71
Loan by Synod, part of Legacy paid by the. Trustees, per Col. Allison,
Making the Total of Contributions amount to
"The committee have purchased books, of the
Presbyterian Board of Publication, amounting to $3116 44
Of Rev'd Mr. C. Mc'Iver, 165 54
American Sunday-school Union,
Robert Carter, New York,
Professor Thornwell's book,
Bible Society,
American Tract Society,
Sundries,
Total amount,
"Cash received for books sold, per report of 1845, $109 74
" " " " " " 1846, 1389 82
Ditto, since last report; viz:
Presbyterian Sunday-school, Fayetteville, $8 73
Rev'd Mr. A. Gilchrist, 7 10
Rev'd Mr. J. S. McCutchan, from Depository at Stalesville, 14 50
Rev'd Mr. J. E. McPherson, 40 00
Rev'd Mr. E. F. Rockwell, 60 39
Mr. James 11. McNeill, 25 54
Mr. Neil I Patterson, 8 75
Rev'd Mr. Arch'd Smith, 1 71
Mr. S. P. Sorrell, 10 00
Mr. S. D. Collins, 44 00
Mr. James W. Reed (late Colporteur,) 38 00
Carried forward, $258 72
* There was the sum of $10 paid before by Mr. Wilson, included in report of last year.
247 94
17 50
$876 II
-$3281 98
445 05
249 47
35 68
318 77
49 81
33 93
$4414 69
-$1499 56
12
Brought over,
$258
72
Mr. Roderick Shaw,
5
20
Mr. Daniel G. Patterson,
118
47
Mr. Alex'r M. McDonald,
180
89
Mr. Arch'd Graham, (Colporteur,)
50
55
00
Mr. John R. McDonald,
336
Mr. John F. McNeely,
550
02
Rev'd Mr. Hugh McAlpin,
190
67
Retail sales at Depository,
117
95
1808 47
Total Cash receipts, $3308 p-j
"There are accounts due, and books to be accounted for; viz:
Rev'd Mr. Peacock, books left with him, by Mr. Beatty,
(Colporteur,) $30 13
Rev'd Mr. Hugh Munroe, due for books, 36 49
Rev'd Mr. E. F. Rockwell, books sent to him, for conveni¬
ence of Colporteur,
Mr. Arch'd Graham, Colporteur,
Mr. John R. McDonald,
Mr. John F. McNeely,
Rev'd Mr. Hugh McAlpin,
Rev'd Mr. S. D. Collins,
Mr. Thomas F. Beatty, (late Colporteur,) $6 60
Mr. Neill Patterson, 0 82
Mr. Daniel G. Patterson, (late Colporteur,) 46 61
Rev'd Mr. F. K. Nash, 1 CO
Mr. Jarnes Williams,—note, 4 80
Mr. Alex'r McAlister,—note, 2 50
62 93
$1010 72
Books in Depository,—estimated value, 400 00
-$1410
We have 4 Carryalls and 3 horses, which cost the concern $572 90,
with harness; hut. two of the carryalls are nearly run down. One of
them has been constantly in service, for near 3 years. I estimate
the present value of the whole, at about, 400 00
Making the available means of the committee, $1610 72
"Wo are in debt to
The Presbyterian Board of Publication, $673 22
Mr. Robert Carter, New York, 120 36
Bible Society, * 71 77
The Treasurer, for advance of 83 19
$948 54
Loan from Synod, 17 50
966 04
Leaving an estimated balance of $844 68
being nearly the amount of contributions.
"The Contingent expenses, for freight, marine and fire insurance, ex¬
change, drayage, repairs, Postage, &c. &c., have amounted to $179 56
"I have not given the items in the Cash Account; inasmuch as it
would he merely repeating the preceding statements, in detail.
13
"Cash, balance on hand, per report of last year, $197 52
Cash, received since, from all sources, donations, sales, Ac. 1959 3-1
Total, $215fi 8t>
Cash paid, amounts to, 2240 05
Balance due to the Treasurer, $83 19
"We have four Colporteurs now in the field;—Mr. McNeely, irr the
hounds of Concord Presbytery; Mr. Graham, in Orange Presbytery;
and Mr. McDonald and Mr. McAlpin, in Fayetteville Presbytery.
"Synod will observe, from this report, that but few of the churches,
(8 in all,) have attended to the resolutions passed at your Sessions in
Greensborough, by taking tip collections for this cause.
"Could we operate upon the Cash principle, it would be much more
pleasant to your officers, and a considerable saving to the Synod.
"All which is respectfully submitted.
(Signed,) "GEORGE McNEILL, Treasurer
of the Committee of Colportag^."
The preceding report was referred to The Rev'd Messrs. Caruthers,
Mcintosh, and McQueen, to report thereon, during the present Sessions.
The committee to whom the Report of the Board of Directors of the
Union Theological Seminary had been referred, exhibited their report;
which, being read, was adopted; and is as follows; viz:
"The committee to whom was referred, the Report of the Board of
Directors of the Union Theological Seminary, beg leave to submit the
following:
"That, having taken into consideration the above Document, thoy
find nothing calling for the attention of Synod, but the action of the
Board, appointing a special Agent, for the collection of a Permanent
fund of Twenty Thousand Dollars, as soon as practicable: Upon which,
they submit the following, viz:
"Resolved, that we cordially approve the object contemplated in the
above action of the Board, and heartily invite their Agent to Visit our
churches, in reference to the object of his Agency."
"All which is respectfully submitted.
"ELI W. CARUTHERS, ^
"HECTOR McLEAN, |
(Signed,) "FREDERICK K. NASH, }• Committee."
"R. H. LAFFARTY,
"JOHN F. PHIFER,
The committee, to whom the subject of the moral state of the col¬
oured population within the bounds of this Synod, had been referred,
and who had been directed to report some plan, by which that popula¬
tion shall be more completely furnished with religious instruction, ex¬
hibited their report; which, heing read, considered, and amended, was
adopted; and is as follows; viz:
"The committee appointed, at the last Stated Sessions of Synod, to
inquire into the moral condition of the coloured population within our
bounds, and to report such measures as ought to be adopted, to provide,
more effectually, for their religious instruction, beg leave to submit the
following remarks and resolutions, as their report.
14
*'A ]afe writer, on this subject, has observed, (hat Hhe National
mind, is beginning to look earnestly at- the political aspect of the
Slavery question; the religious mind, at its moral aspect; and the
•Southern mind, at its social and economical aspect.' Whilst we
believe the above statement of Dr. Durbin, as a matter of fact, to be
substantially true; we doubt, whether the Evangelical mind of this Sy¬
nod, or of a large part of ihe Christian world, is properly awake to the
moral necessities .of the coloured race, or to the obligations which
Christianity imposes, in their behalf. This, loo, we are constrained to
fear, is emphatically true, of the Evangelical mind, touching the col¬
oured population of this country.
"How much soever men may perplex and vex themselves and others
about the Slavery question, in its various political, moral, social, and
economical aspects; or differ in opinion, in regard to the civil relations
of our coloured population; there are important aspects of this great and
delicate subject, in which, (it may be assumed,) all good and wise men
are cordially agreed.
"1. Our coloured population, whether bond or free, are, equally with
any classes of society, the accountable, moral agents of the great Crea¬
tor, Preserver, and Proprietor of mankind; and, as such, are destined,
either to live forever with the redeemed in Heaven; or, to Jie down,
with the lost spirits, in everlasting burnings. It is a gross slander, to
charge Southern Christians, as they have been often charged, with re¬
garding and treating their slaves, as beasts of burden; or, at best, as
mere hewers of wood and drawers of water. They should be, and, in
fact, by Southern Christians, are regarded and treated, as the imniorial
and accountable creatures of God, as truly as their masters are;—hast¬
ening, with them, to the same tribunal, to render a strict account, and
to receive a righteous retribution.
"2. Our servants are parts and parcels, with our children, of our
households;—strictly and emphatically, minor members of our families;
and so regarded, both by the civil and moral law. Hence, the laws of
the country hold the heads of families bound, to feed and clothe,—to
treat humanely,—to protect and defend, both children and servants;—
thus making them both minors;—the one class, through life; the other,
until they arrive at a certain age. The term, '"household," in scrip-
lure, too,—though variously used, is often so emploj'ed, as to include,
with the children, the servants of the house, whether bond or hired.
Hence, "household servants," we find to be a scripture phrase. The
term, "servants," moreover, is very frequently, if not generally, so used
its necessarily to imply this relation. In the fourth commandment.,
they, as well as the sons and daughters, aie specially enumerated in
the prohibition. Thus, not only does the whole frame-work of society,
with the universal operation of social and domestic ties, but also the
genius and spirit of the Bible, with all its implications, touching this
subject, bear us out in the conclusion, that our servants are minors,—
members of our households,—bearing a relation to their masters, in
many respects, similar to that which children bear to their parents.
Jlence,
"3. We infer, that there is a solemn obligation resting upon masters,
15
la care and provide for their servants,—to say the least, as binding as
that to provide for their children. Nor is this obligation confined to the
feeding and clothing of them,—to the promotion of their domestic com¬
fort, or the protection of them in their civil ,rights: It extends to their
spiritual and immortal interests. There is, evidently, in nature,—in
the moral sense of mankind, as well as in enlightened reason, some¬
thing that concedes to the position here taken: And especially does
this feeling develope itself, when Christianity exerts its legitimate in¬
fluence. Children and servants are alike dependent, and subject to
authority. They are, therefore, in like manner, to be cared and pro¬
vided for,—especially in regard to the interests of the soul. Yea, more:
As the servant is a minor for life, and his time under the control of his
master; it is the dictate of common sense, as well as of the Bible, that,
there is a special and most solemn obligation resting upon his master,
to provide tor his religious instruction. If this he not true, Who is to
provide for it? Their condition, on this supposition, is worse than that
of the heathen: For. if there he no obligation on their masters, thus to
provide for them, then, it will follow, that they are left, in the arrange¬
ments of the divine government, entirely unprovided for;—placed, not
only out of,-—but even beyond the reach of the means of salvation:—a
conclusion not to be entertained, for a moment.
'•4. It may be fairly assumed, moreover, that, if the foregoing posi¬
tions be tenable, the judicatories of the church are bound to look after
the spiritual interests and welfare of our coloured population, with as
much care and diligence, to say the least, as they do after those of any
other classes of the community. Most obviously, we should be hjoi«'
concerned for them, than for the distant heathen;—because they are in
the midst of us, dependent upon us: we reap the fruit of their labour, in
common with their masters; and if we do not care and provide for them,
no other Christian organization will. Indeed, as that class of people
generally, with very few and rare exceptions, are mote ignorant, have
less capacity, possess fewer facilities and opportunities, and are rnoie
liable to error, and more exposed to temptations, they should claim
more of our sympathy and effort. The judicatories of the church,
therefore,-as well as other portions of the community, have weighty ob¬
ligations resting upon them, in regard to what have been called our do¬
mestic heathen. They should carefully look after and facilitate, not
only the religious instruction of the people in general, and of the chil¬
dren of the church in particular, but also and especially, of the coloured
population, within their respective hounds. At any rate, they should
see, that tjie coloured population of their own congregations are tho¬
roughly instructed in the principles and doctrines of Christianity.
"Acbording to the last Statistical Table of the United States, theie
are, withipi the bounds of this Synod, about Two hundred and forty-five
thousand, and eight hundred coloured slaves, and over Twenty-two
Thousand and seven hundred free persons of colour; making, of co¬
loured population, an aggregate of Two hundred and sixty-eight thou¬
sand, and five hundred. Allowing one-fifth part of these to be provided
for with religious instruction, by the Presbyterian church, then, our
churches should accommodate, uud our ministers should serve, Fifty-
16
three thousand and seven hundred coloured people. Setting down the
number of our churches, accerding to the last statistical report of the
General Assembly, at a hundred and forty-five, and the number of Min¬
isters, at eighty-five; then, each of our churches should furnish accom¬
modations for not less than three hundred and seventy coloured persons,
and each of our ministers should instruct more than six hundred and
thirty. Compare this result with another item in the statistical repoit
of our church, viz: the number of coloured communicants; and we may,
perhaps, more nearly approximate the amount of our deficiency, on this
subject. The number of coloured communicants reported, is seven
hundred and six. As one of the Presbyteries, (Orange,) seems not to
have reported at all, on this subject, it may be assumed, that the statis¬
tical report is short of the truth; say, nearly, one-half: And, of the fif¬
teen thousand and seven hundred coloured people, whom we should in¬
struct and train up for the Kingdom (>f Heaven, at the largest calcula¬
tion, only about fifteen hundred are professing christians. Supposing,
moreover, that each of our churches furnishes accommodations for a
hundred of these persons, (which is believed to be above the truth.)
then, fourteen thousand and five hundred are supplied with the means
of grace, whilst thirty-nine thousand and two hundred are left unpro¬
vided for.
"Now, if the other evangelical denominations are not doing far more
than we, as a denomination, are doing, in behalf of our Coloured popu¬
lation, there must be a most appalling and criminal deficiency, charge¬
able to the Christians of this land, in providing for their teiigious in¬
struction. This destitution is the more tremendously appalling, when
we recollect, as before stated, that these people are in the* midst of us,
members of our families, laboring for our enjoyment, dependent upon
us tor all they have or expect, of religious instruction, as well as of
physical comfort; and hastening, with us, to the tribunal of the Jlist,
where we are held solemnly responsible, for the proper training of out*
servants, as well as of our children.
"Nor has the correspondence of your Committee with the Presbyte¬
ries furnished the materials for drawing a less discouraging picture than
that which is now presented. No Presbyterial action, it is believed,
has been had, in either of the Presbyteries of Orange or Concord, ex¬
cept, in the latter, to refer the subject to a committee, to report upon,
next Spring. In most of the houses of Worship in these Presbyteries,
as well as in that of Fayetteville, places are appropriated for the co¬
loured people,—perhaps sufficient to accommodate the small numbers
that attend. If these appropriations were more spacious and comforta¬
ble, and especially if the coloured people received more frequent, direct,
and appropriate attention, it is believed, that their attendance would he
much more numerous, constant, and profitable. In a few of the church¬
es, there are weekly Sabbath-schools, for the oral instruction of the co¬
loured portion of the congregation; and in some of these, as well as in
many christian families, Dr. Jones's catechism is successfully used.
Most of our ministers preach, more or less frequently, by special ap¬
pointment, to the coloured people. On such occasions, the attendance
is much more numerous, and the attention much more encouraging.
17
The committee are gratified to be able to state, that the Presbytery of
Fayetteville is reported to have taken special action, and to be actively
and successfully engaged, in behalf of their coloured population. That
Presbytery has taken the ground, that the coloured people constitute
constituent parts of the respective congregations within the bounds of
which they live; and are to receive a proportionable part of the Pasto¬
ral and Ministerial labour. In that Presbytery also, Sabbath-schools,
and Bible and Catechetical classes are attended to, by many of the
Ministers, Ruling-Elders and private christians, at the church, at their
own houses, and, in some instances, in houses erected for the special
benefit of tl^ coloured people. That Presbytery, moreover, requires
their Ministers and Church-Sessions to present a minute report, at each
Semi-Annual meeting, of their labours and success among the people
of colour. It ought further to be stated, that that Presbytery has made
several abortive efforts, and are still desirous, to obtain the services of a
Missionary, exclusively for the benefit of the negroes within their bounds.
"Whilst the moral character and deportment of those coloured peo¬
ple, that are members of our churches, or that attend regularly upon
the means of grace, are quite as good, in proportion to their knowledge
and opportunities, as those of the whites, it is humiliating and distress¬
ing to know, that the reverse is true, of those that are neither members
of the church, nor hearers of the Gospel. This fact should stimulate
us, to the adoption of such measures, for their benefit, as will place
them under the transforming influence of the gospel of Christ.
"With the view of calling a more general and special attention to
this subject, and for the purpose of having the spiritual interests of our
coloured people' more fully and extensively understood, as well as more
adequately and more effectually attended to, your committee respectful¬
ly recommend the following resolutions, for the adoption of Synod: viz;
"Resolved, 1. That the. Synod of North Carolina feels a deep solici¬
tude for the moral and spiritual interests of her coloured population,—
believing that they demand the special attention ot the Judicatories.,
Pastors, and Sessions of our churches.
"2. That the Presbyteries under the care of this Synod be directed
to pay very special attention to this subject;—to call the attention of all
the Churches and Pastors under their care particularly to it;—to see,
as far as practicable, that adequate and comfortable accommodations be
furnished to them in the Sanctuary;—and that the gospel be preached
tf) them, as to the poor for whom the gospel was provided; and to en¬
join it upon christian families, to do all they can to cause them to sanc ¬
tify the Sabbath, attend the Sanctuary, and to have them otherwise
thoroughly instructed in the principles of revealed religion.
"3. That it be earnestly recommended to the Presbyteries, to em¬
ploy, each, as soon as practicable, a Missionary of undoubted qualifica.
tions, to devote himself, exclusively, to this department of labour, with-
in their respective bounds, and to report, faithfully, his plans aud their
results, at each Semi-Annual meeting."
"All which is respectfully submitted."
"DANIEL A. PENICK, }
CSiirned,) "NEILL McKAY, V Committee."
V "WILLIAM N. MEBANE, )
18
For a reason assigned, which was satisfactory to the Synod, the
Treasurer of Synod was excused from presenting a report, until the next
Stated Sessions.
Adjourned, to meet, at this place, on to-morrow, at 9 o'clock, A. M.
Closed with prayer.
Saturday, November 6, 1847.
Synod met, according to adjournment. Present as above. Opened
with prayer. The minutes of yesterday were read.
The Rev'd Messrs. Arch'd Baker, and Andrew McMillan, and Messrs.
Angus Baker, John McLeod and Malcom McDonald, obtained leave of
absence from 12 o'clock to-day, and during the remaining part of the
present Sessions.
Mr. Dolphin A. Davis, a Ruling-Elder from the Presbytery of Con¬
cord, appeared in Synod; and took his seat, as a member.
Agreeably to the order of the day, the Synod took up, for adjudica¬
tion, Case, No. 1; as reported by the Judicial Committee, on yesterday;
viz: the Appeal of Mr. John Cathey, from the decision of the Presby-
tery of Concord, affirming the judgment of the Session of Paw-Creek
church, whereby he had been suspended from the ordinances of God's
house, on a charge of Incest, for marrying the sister of his deceased wife.
The Moderator, agreeably to a standing rule, solemnly announced,
from the chair, that the Synod was about to pass, to the. consideration
of the business assigned for trial; and he enjoined on the members, to
recollect and regard their high character, as Judges of a Court of Jesus
Christ, and the solemn duty, in which they were about to act.
The report of the Judicial committee, in this case, as a general guide
to the order of its adjudication, was ordered to be recorded; and is as
follows; viz:
"The Judicial committee, to whom was referred, the Appeal of Mr.
John Cathey from the decision of the Presbytery of Concord, affirming
the judgment of the Session of Paw-Creek church, by which the said
Cathey was suspended from the privileges of the church, Report, that,
having examined the papers put into their hands, they find them in order;
and recommend, that the Appeal be taken up, and decided by the Synod.
"Your committee recommend the following order, in the case, as pre¬
scribed in Chapter vii, Section iii, of our Book of discipline, viz:
"1. That the judgment of the Presbytery appealed from, be read;
"2. That the Appeal, and Reasons of Appeal, be read:
"3. That the parties be heard:
"4. That the roll be called, that the members may have an oppor¬
tunity to express their opinions; and
"5. That the vote be taken.
"SAMUEL WILLIAMSON,-)
"ELI W. CARUTHERS, (
(Signed,) "WILLIAM N. PEACOCK, ) Committee,"
"WILLIAM S. ANDRES, I
"HARVEY LEETE, J
19
The following papers, connected with the case, were then read; vizi
1. The judgment of the Presbytery of Concord, expressed in the fob
lowing words; viz:
Marion, N. C., August 21, 1847.
"In the case of Mr. John Cathey, who had married his deceased
wife's sister, and had, thereupon, by the Session of Paw-Creek church,
been suspended from the privileges of the church, for the said offence;
and his appeal to the Presbytery of Concord, from the judgment of the
said Session having been duly tried, on taking the final vote thereon,
the decision of the said Session was unanimously confirmed."
"Attested by JOHN S. McCUTCHAN, Stated Clerk."
2. Mr. Cathey's Appeal to the Synod, in the following words; viz:
"The undersigned, having been suspended from the privileges of the
church, by the Session of Paw-Creek church, for what they are pleased
to call the crime of Incest; and this action of the Session having been
sustained by the Presbytery of Concord, to which I appealed; and feel¬
ing myself aggrieved by this sentence, I beg leave, respectfully to ap¬
peal to the Synod of North Carolina, for redress.
"My reasons for making this appeal, are the following:
"1. The General Assembly has never, by a direct vote, decided, that
such marriages are incestuous; and from this fact, 1 inferred, that they
considered the prohibition in our Book as unscriptural or obsolete.
"2. In some parts of the church, Ministers have formed this connex¬
ion; and no censure has ever been passed upon them. Hence, I in¬
ferred, that, if it was considered as no crime in them, it could not be
one, in the case of a private member.
"3. I consider the Presbytery as having erred, in refusing to sustain
my appeal, inasmuch as, so far as I can discover, there is no scriptural
prohibition of such marriages.
"4. From the views and practice of the Presbyterian church, in va¬
rious parts of the United States, on this question, I was induced to be¬
lieve, that the article in the Confession of Faith tinder which I have
been suspended, had become obsolete, and that such marriages were
not regarded, either as unscriptural, or as Anti-Presbyterian.
"5. The Presbytery of Fayetteville have recognised, and so far sanc¬
tioned such marriages, as to restore, to the privileges of the church, and
to the Office of the ministry, The Rev'd Mr. Arch'd McQueen, who had
been suspended for such marriage.
"6. The Synod of North Carolina have recognised as valid, and sanc¬
tioned such marriages, in sustaining the action of the Presbytery of
Fayetteville, in the case of Mr. McQueen.
"7. The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church have recog-
nised as valid, and sanctioned such marriages, in authorising the Pres¬
bytery of Fayetteville, to restore, to the office of the Ministry, the said
Rev'd Mr. Arch'd McQueen.
"For these reasons, I humbly and earnestly crave, from the Synod,
redress of the grievance under which I labour, and restoration to the
privileges I formerly enjoyed."
(Signed,) "JOHN CATHEY."
In the absence of the Appellant, and at his request, The Rev'd Mr.
20
Eli W. Caruthers was appointed to represent him, and to manage his
case, before the Synod.
The Rev'd Mr. Caruthers was heard, in support of Mr. Cathey's Ap¬
peal; and the Presbytery of Concord was heard, in defence of their de¬
cision.
The roll was now called; and an opportunity was thus given to each
member, to express his sentiments, on the case before the Court.
The final vote was, then, taken; and, the question being put, "Shall
the Appeal be sustained, or not?" it was-decided in the negative. So,
the judgment of the Presbytery of Concord was sustained, and Mr. Ca¬
they's Appeal dismissed.
The Rev'd Mr. Caruthers, on behalf of the Appellant, gave notice
of an Appeal from the above decision, to the next General Assembly.
The Appeal was, then, read, and admitted to record; and is as follows;
viz:
"The Appeal of John Cathey, a member of Paw-Creek church, from
a decision of the Synod of North Carolina, in his case, to the General
Assembly of the Presbyterian church in the United States of America,
to meet, in the First Presbyterian church, in the City of Baltimore, on
the third Thursday of May 1848.
"The undersigned, having been suspended from the privileges of the
church, by the Session of Paw-Creek chui'ch, for what they regard as
the crime of Incest; viz: that of having married the sister of my deceased
wife; which decision of the Session having been sustained by the Pres¬
bytery of Concord, and then by the Synod of North Carolina, I beg
leave to appeal, for redress, from the decision of said Synod, to your
venerable body, for the following reasons.
"1. Because it is believed, by your Appellant, and by many of the
ablest and most useful men in the Presbyterian church, that there is no
explicit prohibition of such marriages in the Bible; and that it is unjust
to sever a man from all connexion with the church, for an act which is
not condemned in the Word of God. Such a law cannot be binding on
the conscience; and must become a dead letter, if it be not abrogated.-
"2. The views and practice of the Presbyterian church, in different
parts of the United States, have been so various; and the judicial ac¬
tion, on similar cases, even by the General Assembly, as well as by
inferior judicatories, has been of such a character, as to induce the be¬
lief, on the part of your Appellant, that the Article in the Confession of
Faith, under which, he has been suspended, had become obsolete; and
that such marriages were not regarded as either unscriptural or Anti-
Presbyterian.
"3. Not only private members, but also Office-bearers, and even
Ministers of the Gospel, of high standing in our church, have contract¬
ed such marriages; and are living in this incestuous connexion, as some
are pleased to call it, who have never been even censured. To your
Appellant, this appears inconsistent; and unjustifiable, either by sound
reason or the principles of the gospel; and the Presbyterian church pre¬
sents rather a singular aspect to the world; while one Session, Pres¬
bytery, or Synod, condemns, as a most heinous offence, inflicting on the
persons committing it the highest censure of the church, an act, which,
21
by other Sessions, Ministers, Presbyteries, and higher Judicatories, isr
regarded as no offence at all. For the sake of consistency, therefore,
and of even-handed justice, it is hoped, that the sentence, in my case,
will be reversed.
"4. Many members of our church, and even some Ministers of the
Gospel, who have violated this article of our Confession of Faith, by
entering into the marriage relation with the sister of a deceased wife,
have, in a short time, been restored to the full enjoyment of the privi¬
leges, of which, they had been, for a time, deprived. It may be said,
that I have given no evidence of repentance, nor given the church time
to be satisfied, that my punishment is equal to the offence. To this, I
answer, in the first place, that I am not conscious of having violated
the authority of God, in this matter. I have violated an article of our
Confession; but, so far as I can see, not the Word of God. In the next
place, no evidence of repentance can be given, without being guilty of
what most people would regard as a much greater crime; for, by the
laws of the country, a man cannot be divorced from his wife, on this
ground, even if he wished; so that, if he is excluded from the church at
all, he must be excluded for life; or, at least, while his wife lives: but I
cannot learn, that any of our judicatories now take this ground.
"5. It is believed, that the General Assembly never has, by a direct
vote, declared such marriages incestuous; and this fact, in connexion
with others already mentioned, must be regarded (especially by a pri¬
vate member, who is not so capable of examining the subject, as Min¬
isters, and others of education,) as proof, that they are not explicitly
condemned in the Word of God.
"6. While it is a good rule, for each individual, in relation to his own
conduct, to be on the safe side, and abstain from what appears to him
to be of doubtful propriety;—when men are called to sit in judgment on
the conduct of others, who acted conscientiously, it seems to me, that
they should act upon the opposite principle.
"For all these reasons, I hope, that your venerable body will reverse
the decision of the Synod; and restore me to the communion of the
church, from which 1 have been debarred.
(Signed,) "JOHN CATHEY."
The Judicial business of the Synod being thus disposed of, the court
rose.
The committee appointed to inspect the printed Minutes of the last
General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, and make report of such
articles therein as may be found to claim the attention ot Synod, exhib¬
ited their report; which, being read, was adopted; as is as follows; viz;
"The committee to whom the Printed Minutes of the last General
Assembly of the Presbyterian church had been referred, respectfully
report, that, having examined said Minutes, several items therein con¬
tained appeared to them to claim the attention of Synod; but, that, in
reference to the most of these, your committee find themselves an ici-
pated, the articles alluded to having been brought forward, for Synodi-
cal consideration and action, in other forms, and connected with other
reports;—particularly, the subject of Christian Education,—-themost im¬
portant subject claiming the attention of this Synod. Apart from this
great subject, only one article «pp^~~^»-}">iMu:omiiiittee, to-clain) the
22
attention of this Synod;—touching which, your committee recommend
the adoption of the following resolution; viz:
"Resolved, that this Synod approve of the action of the last General
Assembly, on the subject of their correspondence with the General As¬
semblies of the Free Presbyterian church of Scotland, and of the Pres¬
byterian church of Ireland." "Respectfully submitted."
"THOMAS LYNCH, )
(Signed,) "ANDERSON G. HUGHS, V Committee."
"ARCH'D D. CAMPBELL, y
The committee appointed to confer with The Rev'd Wm. M. Atkin¬
son, D. D., on the subject of Education, reported; and their report, be¬
ing read, was adopted; and is as follows; viz:
"Your committee respectfully recommend to Synod, the adoption of
the following resolutions; viz:
"1. Resolved, That this Synod doth hereby renew its testimony, so
often solemnly borne, with reference to the absolute necessity of learn¬
ing, as well as piety, to an efficient gospel Ministry.
"2. Resolved, That, in the judgment of this Synod, it is the duty of
every congregation, and of every individual christian, not in circum¬
stances of entire destitution, to contribute, annually, much or little, ac¬
cording to the ability which God may have given, to the Boards of Mis¬
sions, Foreign and Domestic, and the Board of Education, of the Pres.
byterian church.
"3. Resolved, That it be, and it hereby is enjoined on all Pastors
within the bounds of this Synod, to bring the subject of preparation for
the Gospel Ministry, before the minds of all such persons, under their
Pastoral charge, as they may suppose to be suited to that work; to ex¬
plain to them the nature of a call, and the proper qualifications for the
Ministry, and to urge on them, the necessity of earnest and prayerful
inquiry, into the question of personal duty, in this matter.
"4. Resolved, That it is hereby enjoined on Pastors and Sessions, to
exercise the most affectionate and vigilant Pastoral supervision, which
circumstances may allow, over all young persons, in their several con¬
gregations, who may be engaged, in any stage of preparation, for the
gospel ministry.
"5. Resolved, That it be recommended to Pastors, at some suitable
time during the coming Synodical year, to preach on the subject of the
Gospel Ministry, setting forth the dignity and importance of the office,
the nature of a call thereto, the obligation resting on parents to dedicate
their children to this work, and on all believers to pray to the Lord of
the harvest, that He would send forth more labourers into his harvest.
"6. Resolved, That the Presbyteries under the care of this Synod be
urged again to pay very special attention to the training of Candidates
for the Ministry, in all the stages of their preparation, that they be rigid
in their requisitions of such candidates, touching the accuracy and
thoroughness, as well as the extent of their training, in all the prepara¬
tory course prescribed in our standards.
"All which is respectfully submitted."
"DANIEL A. PENICK, )
(Signed.) "WILLIAM N. MF.Bxne, } Committee."
y -tyttcu D SMITH, )
23
The Rev'd Mr. Stephen Frontis and Dr. C. W. Harris were ap¬
pointed, a committee of this Synod, to collect, and forward to the Board
of Education, the statistical information called for by the fourth resolu¬
tion, on the subject of Education, adopted by the last General Assembly.
Synod called on the Agents for Foreign Missions, in the several
Presbyteries, for their Annual Reports, with the following results; viz:
1. From the Agent of the Presbytery of Orange, for Foreign Mis¬
sions, no report was received.
2. The Agent of the Presbytery of Concord, for Foreign Missions,
exhibited his report; which was read and approved; and is as follows; viz:
"The Agent for Foreign Missions, in the Presbytery of Concord, re¬
spectfully reports to Synod, that, as heretofore, he has called on all the
Pastors and churches within the bound", of the Presbytery, for their an¬
nual contributions, for the past year; and that he received contributions
from eighteen churches, amounting to about four hundred and forty one
dollars. The Agent was informed, that more than a hundred dollars
were contributed to our Board of Foreign Missions, by two others of
our churches, which have not passed through his hands. The whole
amount contributed, during the year, from twenty churches, is about
five hundred and fifty dollars. The Agent regrets to be obliged to state,
that he has not been able to elicit any action, in this great cause, from
some thirty-five of our churches. He is gratified to know, however,
that the spirit of Missions is gradually improving; and that a larger
number of churches has contributed, and a larger amount has been con¬
tributed, during the past than the preceding year. It is proper further
to state, that the thing has now become a habit, both with the churches
that contribute, and those that do not contribute, to this cause;—the one
class acting under a sense of duty;—the other, either from inability, in¬
difference, or oversight. This latter class, it is earnestly hoped, will
gradually diminish, until the habit of regular and systematic contribu¬
tions, shall be fully established, in all our churches.
"Respectfully submitted."
(Signed,) " "DANIEL A. PENICK, Agent."
3. The Agent of the Presbytery of Fayetteville, for Foreign Mis¬
sions, exhibited his report;; which was read and approved; and is as fol-
, lows; viz:
"The Agent, for Foreign Missions, of the Presbytery of Fayetteville,
would respectfully report, that many of our churches have adopted sys¬
tematic arrangements for the collection of their benevolent contributions;
and that many others take up collections for several objects, annually.
Your Agent, therefore, contented himself with a promise, from brethren
of the Ministry and Eldership, that contributions, for Foreign Missions,
would be taken up, in their respective churches, during the Ecclesias¬
tical year. Some churches, however, have been delinquent; and the
noble example of some has not been followed by others; and the Agent
is grieved, that the amount of contributions is not equal to the ability of
the churches under the care of this Presbytery."
"AH which is respectfully submitted, by
(Signed,) "ARCH'D SMITH, Agent."
The committee to whom the report of the Treasurer of the CoraraH-
24
tee of Colportage had been referred, exhibited their report; which, being
read, was adopted; and is as follows; viz:
"The committee to whom was referred, the Report of the Treasurer of
the Colportage committee, beg leave to submit the following report.
"Your committee have carefully examined the important document
referred to them; and compared it with the Treasurer's Books and files,
and they find it correct, and sustained by proper vouchers. Your com¬
mittee are highly gratified to learn, that the operations of the commit¬
tee in this interesting work, during the past year, have been greatly-
extended, beyond the operations of past years;—having bought and sold
more books, since the last report, than they did during the two preced¬
ing years.
"Books, to the value of Two thousand two hundred and fourteen dol¬
lars, have been purchased, during the past year; and nearly all of them
have been distributed.
"From the report, it will be seen, that more money has been paid
out, than has been received.
"Your committee regret to hear, that so few of the churches have
complied with the resolution of the last Synod, enjoining a collection to
be taken up; and therefore, theyr respectfully recommend to Synod, the
adoption of the following resolution; viz:
"Resolved, that it be again enjoined on all our Ministers, to call the
attention of their churches to the Colportage cause; and that collections,
in its behalf, be taken up, in those churches that have not already con¬
tributed to this object, as soon as practicable."
The committee appointed to prepare a connected summary of the in¬
formation contained in the statements of the several Presbyteries, of
the progress of religion within their respective limits, submitted their
draught of said summary; which, being read, was adopted; and is as
follows; viz:
"It is a rare Providence, that no member of the Synod has been re-
moved by death; and the year has been distinguished by other signal
blessings.
"Several churches have witnessed the manifest presence of the Spirit
of God, giving power and efficacy to the preaching of the plainest doc¬
trines, and to prayer. Many have been brought to 'repentance unto
life'; and have 'witnessed a good profession.' The standard of piety
has been elevated; the consolations of some increased; prayer more
prevalent; and the distinction between the church and the world has
become more apparent. Pastors have shared in these spiritual bless¬
ings; and have been guided and aided, by a divine faith, and spiritual
discernment. Long will the church in Greensborough remember this
year of their increase: So of Lexington and Salisbury. Others have
been edified; as Salem church, Fourth Creek-church, and Bethany.
"Recently, Centre church, in Robeson County, under the Pastoral
care of The Rev'd Mr. Nash, has received a hundred and thirty-three
"Respectfully submitted."
(Signed,)
25
members, as the fruits of this revival. This is thought to be the most
extensive work of grace witnessed in this State, for many years.
"These blessings appear the greater, as so many youth, in the pro¬
gress of their education, in Female Seminaries and Academies, have
turned unto the Lord. What an encouragement, at this time, when
the Synod are establishing Parochial Schools, Academies, and a Col¬
lege, in harmony with the doctrines and usages of the best days of the
Reformation, and of the early periods of our own church. The Synod
affectionately request all the churches, to render thanks to Almighty
God, for these signal and unmerited blessings. Our work is before us;
and the Pastors of no State encounter greater hindrances, or need
stronger encouragements.
"In relation to ordinary events,—the great harmony of feeling, and
union of counsel, in the several Presbyteries, and in the whole Synod,
have diffused over the minds of the people and of the brethren, a be¬
nign influence. The Synod are encouraged to undertake a system of
Presbyterial Education, to increase their efforts for Domestic and Foreign
Missions; and to do more for the conversion of the coloured race ana
the circulation of the Bible, and of the religious publications of our
church.
"May Satan's kingdom be speedily destroyed, and the kingdom of
grace be quickly advanced: May multitudes of immortal souls be daily
brought into Christ's kingdom, and constantly kept in it; and thus, may
the kingdom of glory be hastened"!
The Committee to whom the subject of building up a Synodical Col-
lege had been referred, exhibited their report, as modified by the sug¬
gestions made, during its discussion, by the committee of the whole, on
yesterday; and the report, thus modified, being read, was adopted, and
is as follows; viz:
"System of Prf.sbytekiai. Education, reported by Professor Mor-
gan, and adopted by the Synod.
"The committee appointed to report on Davidson College, in rela¬
tion, not only to the interests of Education, but especially in regard to
the prosperity of the Presbyterian church, in this State, and to report
upon the whole subject, have been led, as well by these directions as by
our own diversity of views, to present the more comprehensive question;
viz: Our present means, and the best practical method of organizing and
carrying forward a system of christian Education, for the Presbyterian
population of North Carolina.
"Since being appointed, the parts of such a system, the benefits and
obligations, have been spread before all our minds, in the most lucid
and ample manner, supported by the most weighty arguments, and from
the highest authority. Another report, on these fundamental, constitu¬
tional, providential topics, is not required.
"We already have the elements of this system. Our fathers accom¬
plished much, worthy of being invigorated, matured, and handed down.
We are all doing something. Let these fragmentary parts be wrought
into one well-ordered system; and light will arise; spirit will animate;
and a Sabbath of rest and peace will bless our work.
"To this end, the committee most respectfully request the brethren,
4
26
to resolve themselves into a committee of the whole, fijr the most unre¬
served conference and consultation. Resolutions will avail nothing.
Let us look each other in the face. The most serious hindrances arise
from our own feelings. Great objects are sacrificed to small obstacles.
Go into the conference, arid we need no report. We can agree upon
the work to be done, appoint the Agents, give instructions, and see to
it that it is well done.
"The following resolutions are proposed, not to control the confer¬
ence, but as designating, with brevity, the several parts of the system.
1 "1. Resolved, That the Report on Parochial Schools, by the authority
of the General Assembly, designating three grades of Institutions,—the
first under the care of the Church-Sessions, the second under the care
of the Presbyteries, and the third under the care of the Synods,—merits
our entire and strong approval.
"2. Resolved, That the legislation in this State furnishes urgent mo¬
tives for the prompt and vigorous prosecution of these several parts of
our system.
"3. Resolved, That each Presbytery add to its items of annual busi¬
ness the one of Education; appoint a standing committee of Education
to carry into operation the first grade of schools; require the Sessions
to report to Presbytery, yearly, what they are doing and leaving undone;
and that each Presbytery report, circumstantially, to the Synod.
"4. Resolved, That the term, Parochial School, be used, by this
Synod, for the first grade of schools, and include all schools for ele¬
mentary instruction, under the care of anyone Church-Session, whether
they be infant-schools, Sabbath-schools and Bible classes, or common
schools of the greatest maturity and thoroughness; and that the word
Academy be used for institutions of the second grade, comprehending
all existing institutions of this grade, as grammar schools for classics,
high schools, gymnasia, institutes, normal schools for training teachers,
female schools, and seminaries, and female colleges.
"5. Resolved, That each Presbytery establish, and amply endow,
such Academies, under their own control, as may be ably sustained,
guarding against premature undertakings, and all sources of decline.
"6. Resolved, That all such Academies as are under the supervision
of the Presbyterian church make their , annual Report to the Synod,
either directly or through the Presbyteries; and that Academies, not
strictly under their supervision, but in harmony with their system, and
receiving our co-operation, may be reported in like manner.
"7. Resolved, That the Synod add to their order of business, the one
of Education, to take precedence of all business not strictly Ecclesiasti¬
cal, and Missionary; appoint a Board of Education, to whom are to be
referred, all reports on Education, not otherwise ordered; that this
Board prepare the most practical directions for aiding Church-Sessions
in originating and improving their schools; prepare the form in which
returns are to be made to Presbytery and Synod; recommend the most
approved books for the schools; make ready for early publication, those
legal forms by which school-lots, bonds, funds, endowments, and be¬
quests, to any branch of our system of Presbyterial Plducation can be
made sure, in due forms of law; that this Board prepare, for the adop-
27
tion of the Synod, the rules of its own organization and government;
have full authority to raise funds for this system of school extension, and
apply them; appoint Agents, conduct anniversary meetings, support
beneficiaries, appoint committees of visitation, and be the organs of
this Synod, to carry forward all the parts of a Christian, Republican,
and Presbyterial Education.
"In passing to the third grade, there is a necessity for recording the
distinction between a College and a University. The College, com¬
mencing where the Academy stops, by legal enactments and usages,
imparts the discipline, the science, and the literature, fitting young men
to enter upon the study of either of the learned professions. No less
essential to the College, is that character for learning, talent, and ele¬
vation, which render its honours of reputation with the learned. A di¬
ploma of less than par value is repudiated. The University, in fact,
rather than so named in a charter, provides for all parts of a College,
with the munificence of a State; and, above a College, it sustains the
several Professions; and furnishes facilities for the augmentation of
learning. Cambridge College has grown into a University; so has
Yale. Princeton and Union continue to adorn the College grade.
"The University of North Carolina, like the State, is moving steadily
on, to its high destination. It has no rival; and cherishes no envy.
The time may not be far distant, when the Legislature will be proudly
liberal and munificent towards this first-born, this only daughter of the
Republic. Learning requires society, not commercial nor political, but
the concentration and conflict of mind. The Roman maxim, Tres Fa-
ciunt Collegium, may, ere long, prompt our Legislature to establish,
.within the healthful groves of the University, the School for Law and
for Medicine; and, with Parental wisdom, invite all Christian denomi¬
nations in the State, to plant, near the University, their own Theologi-
cal Seminaries. To this inheritance we are born. We are not so re¬
mote from its origin or its history, as to forget our birthright. We seek
no exclusive privilege,—no preponderating influence. We expect to
enjoy the benefits of its ceaseless expansion and maturity, as we do our
Constitution and Laws, in common with our fellow-citizens; and we
desire to cherish, in our own minds, and in the self-consciousness of ail
our churches, a corresponding interest.—Therefore,
"8. Resolved, That such members of the Synod as may be Profes¬
sors in the University, be requested, annually, to lay before us what¬
ever most concerns morals and true religion; with such suggestions as
they may deem most appropriate to their office.
"Holding so intimate a connexion as we do with the one institution
of all the people, let our prayer evince our sincere desire, that the Uni¬
versity of North Carolina rise up, a column of light, shedding down
upon our Colleges and churches, upon our Courts of justice and
Legislature, upon our union and civilization, the choicest influences of
learning, genius, and piety. These views have led some of our num¬
ber to regard a College as unnecessary; and, on the whole, of bad ten¬
dency. Others regard these objections as imaginary; and they are
confident, that the results, on all parts of our system, and on the Uni¬
versity itself, will be good and abiding.
28
"Will not our brethren, engaged, for years, in gathering up the a-
$ails of their increased industry and frugality to endow this College,
trusting that self-sacrifice for so sacred a cause will be approved on
high, feel themselves injured, by our indifference and aversion? Their
views are not mere impressions. Some of their views are facts. Some,
manifest tendencies in society, beyond the power of argument to con¬
trol. Others, doubtless, are opinions, to be manifested liy conference.
"The length of the State, extending hundreds of miles West of the
College, along the borders of Tennessee; the vast mountain regions,
fertile often to the summits; valleys, teeming with a free, frugal, and
intelligent people; an increasing aversion to sending their children down
; the country; remoteness from market and commerce and manufactories,
vastly increasing the number desiring education, but diminishing the
avails of frfee labbur, below the yearly expenses at the University;—
numbers resorting to other States:—These causes, operating, with in¬
creasing force, for thirty years, till not one in ten thousand is where the
State has provided, have led all the churches to commence a College,
in the centre of a Presbyterian population.
"One other cause, strongly operating,—one of principle, growing out
of the history of the people and of the church, and of its more recent
return to its original and constitutional elements,—gave living power
to the conviction, that a College, conducted by the church, and filled
with her sons, could not fail of favour from God, and with all good men.
"The resolutions in the Presbytery of Concord have rendered the 12th
of March, 1835, a memorable day. On the 1st of August, subscriptions
were made sure, for Thirty-six thousand dollars. The College was
located on a hundred and seventy acres, where it now stands.
"Buildings have been erected, with an economy haidly credible,
The»Chapel of brick, two stories high, sixty feet by forty; a Steward's
hall, sixty-four feet by forty, two stories high; three Professors' houses,
with their appendages; five blocks of Students' rooms, all of brick, tin
roofed; and all for Twenty-five thousand dollars. Two Society Libra¬
ries, of well chosen literature, twelve thousand volumes,—Three thou¬
sand dollars; Library and Apparatus, Two thousand dollars; two Pro¬
fessorships endowed, with Thirty four thousand dollars;—making Sixty-
four thousand dollars, and free of debt.
"Seven classes, ninety-four young men, have received their diplomas.
Of these, thirteen are in the Ministry, fourteen admitted to the Legal,
and nine to the Medical Profession; while most of the others are in pre¬
paration for the same.
"The recent bequest of Mr. Carson, of Charlotte, N. C., of Five
Thousand dollars, with his valuable Library, has accomplished more
than its intrinsic worth, in removing, from the minds of some, the pos¬
sibility of failure. At this very time, in place of waiting for our com¬
mendation, the Trustees are filling the third Professorship, while the
Alumni are providing funds for a pew edifice.
"The Synod cannot fail to perceive, that the time has passed by:—
We are too late to discuss the question of beginning a College. It ri-
ses up to greet us, not imploring our aid, but coming to our standard;
—giving strength, unity, and system, to our whole plan.
29
"Visit Davidson at Commencement:—What an assemblage, from th^
mountains to the coast!—Twenty or thirty Ministers. What enthusi¬
asm of young men! What love of learning, virtue, and their College!
How laborious in study! How frugal in expense! How devoted the
Professors! How parental the government! How filial the pupils!
What more do the Synod ask, in the first seven years? Are we the
men so abundanj in great action, to neglect, to discourage, to undo?
"Did our fathers err, in founding Colleges? Have the Caldwells and
Davidsons proved traitors to the State? Why uncover our heads, at
their sepulchres, and not walk in their footsteps?
"For us not to express the most cordial approval and co-operation, at
this time, is to condemn our General Assembly, and to stultify the whole
system of Presbyterial Education. Therefore,
"9. Resolved, That Davidson College, thus far endowed, be an in¬
tegral part of our system of the third grade, under the care of the Sy¬
nod; that its report be laid before us, Annually; and that the friends of
the College, in all our bounds, aid the Board, in enlarging their build-'
ings, library, apparatus, and Professorships; and that our Board of Ed¬
ucation appoint a Committee to attend its examinations.
"In conclusion, the need of funds, to Carry into full operation, the
Parochial Schools, the Academies, and the College, is great.
"The connexion of its results with the other parts of the Kingdom of
the Lord Jesus Christ," ought to be more strongly felt by this Synod,
than it can by others. What difficulties bear down the energies of all
present, save the Pastors of a few growing congregations! This call
for money may put to hazard the wisest provisions for alL coming times.
"Had the contemplated Board of Education Ten Thousand Dollars
of yearly income, how wisely and efficiently could it be used, to call
out the energies and resources now dormant! The great blessings*are
inherited. Institutions, Christian Schools, make society, elevate the
race, and perfect the individual.
"If the State did nothing, the church would do the whole. For us to
depend on the bread of State bounty, or of taxation, is to give our chil¬
dren to increasing misery, and ourselves to shame. The Presbyterian
church arose, with the Union of the Church and School:—They must
stand together, or sink together; and so sink, that no friendly hand will
record the fall; or sensibility eherish the good deeds of its youth and
manhood. But the path of the righteous shall be like the Sun, that ne¬
ver declines. Therefore,
"10i Resolved, that each Pastor, at an early period, preach a Ser¬
mon, to lead all his people to a cordial adoption of the views of the Sy¬
nod, and to a full practical conviction, tfiat no object for which youth
seeks good habits, or the young man acquires property, or the fathpr
applies.it, to bless his children, compares with the one of providing a
Christian Education. f
"The Ordinance of Baptism requires the Institutions for Christian
Education, among the most civilized, no less than among Pagans and
Idolaters. What are Missions, without Mission-Schools?
"Our Lord, in his last and great command, 'Go into all the world,
making disciples, teaching them', implies, that the school of Christ will
receive the child baptized in his church.
30
" 'Still,' some allege, 'there is no necessity for Presbyterian Schools.''
1 Charity schools of the State,' they affirm, 'will be glad to receive the
lambs of our Shepherds.' 'The expense of Academies,' they argue,
'can be saved; others can do this for them; and will rejoice to hear of
the failure of this entire system. Why attempt a College? Let David¬
son sink to an Academy. Others can build Colleges, not only for their
own daughters, but also for our sons. Romanists, of every grade, in
Europe and America, are ready to do all our work.'
"The heart sickens at the contrast. Are we prepared for this sacri¬
fice? Could Thomas Chalmers, or Gilbert Tennant, or Joseph Cald¬
well, or John H. Rice, or Archibald Alexander, rise, in this Synod,
with what demonstration, from experience, would he urge us, to prepare
this entire system of Christian Education for the Presbyterian popula¬
tion of North Carolina."
"All which is respectfully submitted."
(Signed,) "GILBERT MORGAN, Chairman of the Committee."
In fulfilment of the provision contained in the 7th resolution embraced
in the preceding report, the following persons were appointed, to con¬
stitute the Board of Education of this Synod, charged with the duties
specified in the said resolution; viz: The Rev'd Mr. Gilbert Morgan,
President; Mr. Jesse H. Lindsay, Corresponding Secretary; The Rev'd
Alex'r Wilson, D. D.; The Rev'd Messrs. John A. Gretter, Daniel A.
Penick, Adam Gilchrist, and Neill McKay; Henry Elliot, Esq.; and
Dr. C. W. Harris.
Resolved, that the Board of Education of this. Synod consist of nine
members.
The following Minute was submitted; and being read, was adopted;
viz:
Inasmuch as it is highly important, that the Report, touching David¬
son College, be spread before the churches, with all practicable expe¬
dition; and inasmuch as the Editor of the "Watchman and Observer"
has offered to publish that report in an early number of his paper; and
to send ten copies thereof to any one handing him twenty-five cents;
therefore
Resolved, that this proposal of the said Editor be acceded to, by this
Synod.
The Stated Clerk produced a Synodical Report to the General As¬
sembly, grounded on the Annual Reports of the Presbyteries to this
Wynod; which, being read, was adopted; and is as follows; viz:
"The Synod of North Carolina report to the General Assembly, that
they consist of Three Presbyteries; and that these Presbyteries consist,
in whole, of Eighty-three members; having under their care, a hundred
and forty six congregations, twelve Licentiates, and ten Candidates: viz:
Presbyteries.
Ministers.
Congregations.
Licentiates.
Candidates-
1. Orange,
27
43
5
6
2. Concord,
27
55
6
1
-3. Fayetteville,
29
48
1
3
7 olal,
83
146
12
10
31
"The Synod further reports, that, within the past year, its Presby*
teries have ordained, sine liiuto, two ministers, as Evangelists; ordain¬
ed one minister, and installed him, as a Pastor; licensed four Probation¬
ers; received, from- other Presbyteries, two ministers and three licen¬
tiates; organized one church; dissolved five Pastoral relations; restored
one minister from a sentence of suspension; and dismissed, with a view
to connexions with other Presbyteries, four ministers, and one licen¬
tiate; and that their next Synodical Sessions are to be held, in the town
of Salisbury, in the County of Rowan, N. C., to commence on Wednes¬
day, the 1st of November, 1848, at 7 o'clock, P. Rl.
"By Order of the Synod.
(Signed,) 1 "COLIN McIVER, Stated Clerk."
"Fayetteville, N. C., 6th Nov'r, 1847."
Ordered, that an authentic transcript of the above report be duly for¬
warded to the next General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church.
The following resolutions were submitted; and, being read, were a-
dopted, with perfect and cordial unanimity; viz:
Resolved, that the thanks of this Synod be given to the Citizens of
Fayetteville, for their kindness and hospitality to its members, during
the present Sessions; and to the Office-bearers of the several churches,
in this town, for thd use of their houses of worship, during the same
period.
Resolved, that the thanks of this Synod be given to The Rev'd Rob¬
ert H. Morrison, D. D., for his excellent Sermon, on the subject of
Colportage, delivered in the audience of its members; and that Dr.
Morrison be and he hereby is affectionately requested, to permit the
same to be published, in the "Watchman and Observer."
The Stated Clerk was directed, to cause Two hundred and fifty co¬
pies of the Minutes of the present Sessions of Synod to be printed; and
to distribute the same among the members, and among the Presbyte¬
ries, as usual.
Adjourned, to meet, in the Presbyterian Church, in the Town of Sa¬
lisbury, in the County of Rowan, on Wednesday, the 1st of November,
1848, at 7 o'clock, P. M.
Concluded with prayer, an appropriate hymn, and the Apostolic Ben¬
ediction.