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I 
 
 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, GERMANTOWN. 
 
A SKETCH 
 
 The Work and Worship 
 
 Mmt mumtUmn %mm 
 
 GERMANTOWN, 
 
 PREPARED BY 
 
 REV. J. F, DRIPPS, 
 
 PASTOR, 1870-1880. 
 
 PUBLISHED BY THE SESSION 
 1880. 
 
GRANT, FAIRES & RODOERS, 
 
 PRINTERS. 
 
 54 NORTH SIXTH STREET, 
 
 PHILADELPHIA. 
 
Ourch Dfcm, tic. 
 
 Pastor. 
 
 Rev. J. FREDERIC DRIPPS. 
 
 Session. 
 
 The Pastor, ex-offieio Moderator, ^vith Ruling Elders: 
 T. CHARLTON HENRY, CHARLES M. LUKENS, 
 
 THOMAS MACKELLAR, ENOCH TAYLOR, 
 
 EDWARD L. WILSON. 
 
 Board of Trustees. 
 
 ED^A7^ARD COPE, 
 JOHN GARRETT, 
 J. BAYARD HENRY, 
 JAMES KINNIER, 
 CHARLTON H. ROYAL, 
 
 SAMUEL G. DENNISON, 
 JONATHAN GRAHAM, 
 THOMAS F. JONES, 
 THOMAS MACKELLAR, 
 ENOCH TAYLOR. 
 
OFFICERS. 
 
 Sabbath-School Superintendents, 
 
 Home School, 
 Pulaskiville School, 
 Somerville School, 
 
 T. CHARLTON HENRY. 
 ISAAC C. JONES, Jr. 
 GEORGE F. \A/IGGAN. 
 
 Missionaries, 
 
 Chapel Minister, 
 Bible-Reader, 
 Foreign Missionary, 
 
 Rev. JAMES W, KIRK. 
 
 Mrs. C. D. SCOTT. 
 
 Mrs. JOHN C. BALLAGH. 
 
 President, 
 Secretary, 
 Treasurer, 
 
 Pastoral Aid Society, 
 
 Mrs. MARY D. \A^ESTCOTT. 
 Miss JEANNIE H. BACON. 
 Mrs. THOMAS F. JONES. 
 
 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, 
 
 Mrs. WESTCOTT and Miss BACON, Ex-officio. 
 
 Mrs. J. F. DRIPPS, Mrs. T. CHARLTON HENRY, 
 
 Mrs. JONATHAN GRAHAM. 
 
 Young Men's Society. 
 
 President, 
 Secretary, 
 Treasurer, 
 
 J. ADDISON CAMPBELL. 
 HARRY K. MANSFIELD 
 GEORGE Q. SPIEGEL. 
 
PREFACE 
 
 Ten years have elapsed since the present pastor began work 
 in this church. Its record during that time includes the following 
 facts, which are here brought together for more convenient reference, 
 in the form of a brief summary. 
 
 The number of persons who have been received into Commu- 
 nion is 348 ; of whom, 220 came upon profession of faith. Two 
 of these members have been ordained to the Gospel ministry. 
 There are at the present time 372 names on the roll. 
 
 A new church has been erected ; the building and furniture 
 costing ^70,296.00. Of this sum, $21,564.00 came from the sale 
 of the old church, and the remainder, 548,732.00 was paid in cash. 
 
 Two mission stations have been formed, and a chapel built for 
 each. In the Sunday-Schools which are held in these chapels, 
 together with that which meets in the church itself, there is a total 
 enrolled membership of 901. On the Somerville field there is a 
 Chapel Minister, giving his whole time to the work, and holding 
 three services weekly. In other directions an efficient Bible-reader 
 has been steaddy engaged, with most encouraging results. The 
 ladies have been organized into a Pastoral Aid Society, which has 
 at present sixteen Standing Committees, each with its own distinct 
 form of effort, in the congregation, the neighborhood, or the 
 mission field. It supports a Missionary in Japan, and maintains 
 scholarships there and elsewhere. There are 75 members in the 
 Society, and it has received contributions amounting, by the end 
 of 1879, 'o about $30,000.00. 
 
 The gifts of the church during this decade, for all such pur- 
 poses, religious and benevolent, have been considerably more than 
 $175,000.00. 
 
 As the Seventieth anniversary of the church occurs within the 
 year, it has been thought best to sketch its earlier history also ; 
 incorporating with this, the facts which were partially recorded in 
 the Manual printed eight years ago. 
 
 7 
 

 
 THE 
 
 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 IN 
 
 GERMANTOWN. 
 
 HERE is but little in the present appearance of 
 this church to show that it originated from German 
 stock, and was for many years entitled, "The 
 ^ English Church in Germantown." Yet such a fact 
 cannot have been without influence on its history and life. 
 There surely is such a thing as continuous life and individual 
 character in a church ; and its work and worship can best 
 be carried on by those who know that history, and so 
 enter with sympathy and intelligence into their places in 
 its life. It is worth while to trace backward this particular 
 record, if only to perceive more clearly that the sincere 
 purpose of obeying God, and serving the gospel of His 
 Son, was the controlling motive which led to the founda- 
 tion, not only of the edifice in which we meet, and of that 
 which preceded it, but of the church itself, and of the 
 church from which it grew, and even of the very town in 
 which they were established. 
 
 Germantown, or The German Township, as it is called 
 in some of the older records, was from its very foundation 
 distinctly religious. It was "freedom to worship God" 
 
lO FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 which its German settlers were seeking when they left their 
 home in the Palatinate. The first arrivals reached here in 
 1683, ^ ^^^'^ months after the settlement of Philadelphia, 
 and for more than fifty years increasing numbers joined 
 them, impelled by the same willingness to live as exiles in 
 the American wilderness, rather than give up religious 
 freedom. The armies of Roman Catholic France depopu- 
 lated many a Protestant German village, only to send 
 its inhabitants westward to Pennsylvania. So great were 
 the numbers of these exiles, that the authorities of this 
 Province seem to have been more than once not a little 
 alarmed lest Pennsylvania should become German, and 
 not English ; and the population of the State has always 
 consisted of this stock in far greater proportion than is 
 generally known. So late as 1751, nearly one-half of all 
 its inhabitants were German. Most of these settlements, 
 however, were in other parts of the Province ; there was 
 but one German town in the immediate neighborhood 
 of Philadelphia. Some of its first settlers had, before 
 crossing the ocean, joined the "Society of Friends," which 
 had but recently been organized, and whose originator, 
 Fox, was still living. Others of them took the same 
 step after reaching this country, so that the house which 
 Pastorius, the leader in this immigration, erected as a place 
 of worship in 1686, was at once used by this Society for 
 its meetings. Such meetings had already been held in a 
 private house since 1683. 
 
 This was the first religious organization in Germantown, 
 and Pastorius himself became one of its leading members. 
 He was a highly educated man, and seems to have kept 
 its records in the English language from the beginning, 
 though German was spoken at the meetings. 
 
 The first public testimony which was ever given against 
 Slavery, came from this meeting in 1688: though the 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. I I 
 
 German Friends did not find their appeal seconded by 
 their English neighbors, who were not as yet in advance 
 of their fellow-countrymen in this matter. 
 
 In 1 708 the Mennonists of Germantown formed a church 
 of fifty-two members, and in 1723 the Tunkers or Dunkards 
 organized one in the district named after one of the 
 settlers, Bebberstown, since corrupted to Beggarstown. 
 
 The next church was that from which our own is 
 descended. There were, by this time quite a large 
 number of the German Reformed in this country : in 
 1 731 they were estimated at 15,000. But there was an 
 utter absence as yet of regular pastors ; the home church 
 in Germany was so persecuted and down -trodden that it 
 could not supply its own wants, much less those of the 
 exiles in America. The Reformed Church of Holland 
 Avas appealed to, and for many years all work among the 
 Germans here was fostered by the Dutch Classis of 
 Amsterdam. 
 
 The first efforts in this direction came, however, in very 
 unpretending shape, from among the colonists themselves; 
 men of earnest christian hearts, moved by the spiritual 
 needs around them, exerted themselves to do what they 
 could, and ultimately found themselves called by the 
 people, and ordained by the church authorities, as 
 ministers of the gospel. 
 
 Such a man was the founder of this particular church in 
 Germantown, the Rev. John Bechtel. His writings and 
 his life itself show him to be a warm-hearted christian of 
 the true apostolic spirit. When be reached this country 
 ii 1726, being at the time 38 years old, he began 
 immediate efforts for the spiritual welfare of his fellow 
 colonists. 
 
 Acting simply as a layman, he held religious meetings 
 for his neighbors at his own house, and this not on 
 
12 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 Sundays alone, but twice each day through the week. In 
 a letter written by him afterward in 1744, he declares that 
 "for the last sixteen years, (that is, since 1728, two years 
 after his arrival) I have served the Reformed brethren as 
 preacher, according to a call from them, and a written 
 confirmation of it from Heidelberg in Germany." He 
 was not formally ordained until 1742, when Bishop 
 Nitschman of the Moravian Church took the chief part in 
 the service. Long before this, however, in 1733, five years 
 after his call and licensure to preach, his people erected 
 the first German Reformed Church Building in the State, 
 and Divine Worship was regularly conducted in it 
 thenceforward. The pastors who succeeded him, were no 
 less consecrated and fervent, and they were men of highly 
 educated minds, regularly trained for the ministry, and 
 coming to this country in the veritable missionary spirit. 
 One of them especially. Rev. Michael Schlatter, was 
 widely honored throughout the Province for his character 
 and work by all classes and churches. He was, to this 
 church, what his friend Muhlenberg was to the Lutheran 
 body. 
 
 It was not until two generations of church life had thus 
 passed away, that the events took place which resulted in 
 the formation of our own church. From 1805 to 181 1, 
 the Reformed Congregation had no settled pastor. So 
 severely was this destitution felt, that in 1807 the congre- 
 gation at Frankford, which was a branch of this one in 
 Germantown and under its care, transferred itself to the 
 Presbytery of Philadelj)hia, and has since that time always 
 had English-speaking Presbyterian pastors. This action 
 was taken unanimously ; and the people assigned as their 
 reasons, that they could in no other way maintain religious 
 services at all, and that they considered the shades of 
 difference between the German Reformed Church and the 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. I 3 
 
 Presbyterian Church to be very sHght. The Hnes of 
 distinction between denominations were less firmly drawn 
 than now. The desire for service in the English language 
 had much influence with the congregation, as indeed it 
 had with all the other German churches of the city at 
 that time. Each of them came to a point at which the 
 younger members, who spoke only English, either changed 
 the worship of their church into that language, or, as was 
 usually the case, found themselves obliged to form a new 
 church. The need was as pressing in Germantown as 
 elsewhere. Indeed, Rev. Mr. Runkel, who resigned in 
 1805, had been in the habit of preaching in both 
 languages alternately. His preaching at Erankfort was in 
 English three times out of four. And even after his 
 departure, the Germantown church is known to have had 
 many English services. But the older members finally 
 refused to continue this compromise, and voted to call a 
 pastor from Germany, who should use only his native 
 language in all his preaching. Of those who then formed 
 the younger generation in the church, several are yet 
 living ; and they attest the fact that German services were 
 wholly unintelligible to a large proportion among the 
 youth of their day. The attachment of the older members 
 for their native language is easily understood ; yet the 
 change was inevitable sooner or later, and for men who 
 had permanently identified themselves with an English- 
 speaking nation, it was really as desirable as necessary. 
 The younger members began to feel that there was no 
 alternative but to organize a church whose worship they 
 could understand. 
 
 This step was the more natural because of the example 
 which had already been given in this city, and by the 
 Frankford branch of this church itself. 
 
 Mr. Joseph Miller, one of the leading members of the 
 
14 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 congregation, was a chief mover in the new enterprise. 
 The following information concerning him is given in a 
 letter from his grandson, Franklin B. Gowen, Esq. : 
 
 " Mr. Joseph Miller, my maternal grandfather, was born 
 at Mount Airy, (in the upper part of Germantown) on 
 January i6th, 1757, and died at Mount Airy March 27th, 
 1825. He married Susanna Raser, who was born January 
 12, 1767, and who long survived him, dying in Phila- 
 delphia, September 23d, 1853. In 1792 he built the stone 
 house at Mount Airy, in which he subsequently lived and 
 died, in which my mother and myself were born, in which 
 I recently lived, and which is now occupied by my brother, 
 Mr. James E. Gowen." 
 
 His father, Sebastian Miller, or, as he invariably wrote 
 his name, " Sebastian Miiller," was undoubtedly German : 
 his marriage is on record as taking place in Germantown, 
 April loth, 1754. The family was one of the oldest in 
 connection with the German Reformed Congregation, and 
 Mr. Joseph Miller was a prominent man in the community. 
 It was with great reluctance that he left the old church, 
 and his whole life and character confirms the declaration, 
 that he really felt himself compelled by the religious neces- 
 sities of his own children, and of the youth around him, to 
 act as a chief founder of the new organization. 
 
 Another prominent figure in the little company was that 
 of the Rev. Samuel Blair, D. D., son of the well-known 
 Presbyterian minister of that name. He was therefore of 
 Scotch-Irish descent, and was born in Chester County, 
 Pennsylvania, in 1741. When but twenty-six years old, he 
 had been elected to the Presidency of Princeton College, 
 but on finding that Dr. Witherspoon could be induced to 
 cross the ocean and accept the position, he resigned in his 
 favor. After spending three years in Boston, as colleague 
 with Dr. Sewall, in the Old South Church, he came in 1769 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. I 5 
 
 to GermantowiT, where he lived in retirement, possessed 
 of a comfortable estate, and engaged chiefly in literary 
 pursuits, until his death in 181 8. 
 
 In some respects the times were not propitious for such 
 an undertaking, as that of which we are now speaking; for 
 the events which culminated in the Avar of 181 2 were 
 already producing great disturbance in commercial and 
 social relations. Indeed, one of the earliest services held 
 in the new edifice after it was at last completed, was for 
 the benefit of a military company enlisted for the war. 
 The occasion is well remembered by some who were 
 present. 
 
 Yet in other respects, it was a season decidedly favorable 
 to religious activity. There was everywhere a reaction 
 from the spiritual depression which had been felt during the 
 generation immediately following the Revolutionary War. 
 The Foreign Missionary work in this country, the Sunday 
 School Union, the Theological Seminary at Princeton, 
 were all lifted into existence at the same time with this 
 little church, and by the same rising tide of spiritual 
 influence. Our Presbyterian Home Mission work had but 
 just been fully organized ; there had been great revivals in 
 the land, such as had not been vouchsafed for more than 
 one generation. All such events are surely connected one 
 with another, not always by any conscious purpose of men, 
 but by the purpose and intention of that One Person, that 
 Holy Spirit, who fills every member and part of Christ's 
 Body, the Church. There was, by His grace, a great 
 spring-tide of religious life throughout the whole church 
 in this country ; and there is a new interest in looking at 
 God's Providential dealings with this humble German 
 village, when we conceive of them as forming one mani- 
 festation of that water of life which was flooding all the 
 coasts of our land. 
 
I 6 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 It was held to be Providential indeed, by the German - 
 town people, that just at this time there came into the 
 village the Rev. Thomas Dunn, who in due time became 
 the first pastor of our church. This might have been less 
 remarkable, if he had come in the character of a minister 
 seeking a church, or sought by one : but the circumstances 
 were not of this kind. He was born in Devonshire, 
 England, in 1763, and educated in the Baptist Church at 
 Bristol, under the charge of Dr. Evards and the celebrated 
 Robert Hall. He received pressing calls from different 
 churches in England, which are still in possession of his 
 family. By the advice of Lord Erskine he left England in 
 1793, on account of the opposition which had been excited 
 by his publishing a pamphlet, which was too democratic 
 for the times. He preached for some time in Philadelphia 
 and in Newport, but on account of ill-health exchanged 
 this for a business life. It was not, therefore, as a minister, 
 but as a layman, doing occasionally ministerial work, that 
 he removed to Germantown, which he did in 1809. He 
 had not given up his interest in gospel work, however, and 
 finding the spiritual need of the community to be very 
 pressing, he at once entered with great heartiness into the 
 effort of supplying it. 
 
 The Reformed Congregation invited him to conduct 
 services for them ; there being, as already stated, no pastor 
 at the time. He accepted this invitation immediately, and 
 there was for a time some prospect of his becoming himself 
 the pastor, in which case the new church would not have 
 been required. He had some time previously changed his 
 views concerning Baptism, and become Presbyterian on 
 conviction, and now, in October 1809, he applied for 
 reception under care of the Presbytery of Philadelphia, as 
 a licensed preacher. There was considerable delay, how- 
 ever, from various causes, in perfecting these arrangements. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. I 7 
 
 The fact that Mr. Dunn had come from another country, 
 as well as from another cienomination, made it necessary, 
 according to the constitution of our church, that at least 
 one year should intervene before his final reception into 
 this body. At the end of the year, however, in October 
 1 810, he was formally received under care of Presbytery. 
 It was then agreed by Presbytery that since Mr. Dunn had 
 " for more than a year been preaching to a congregation 
 within our bounds, to the satisfaction of the people," he 
 should be regularly appointed to preach for the new church. 
 It was not yet a church, entirely organized as such; and 
 this fact made fresh delay. The Presbytery commissioned 
 Dr. Archibald Alexander to visit Germantown and explain 
 to the people that until their organization was more com- 
 plete, so that a regular " call " could be extended by them 
 to Mr. Dunn, the way would not be open for his ordination. 
 They did indeed form a distinct congregation ; for it had 
 some time previously become evident that the authorities 
 of the German Reformed Congregation would not consent 
 to any further English services ; and those persons who 
 felt the need of such services had withdrawn with the 
 intention of constituting an English Church. For about 
 two years they continued to meet in the house of Dr. Blair, 
 a commodious building, w^hich is still standing on the 
 eastern corner of the Main street and Walnut Lane : the 
 same building which was in after years occupied for awhile, 
 by the '• Manual Labor Academy," an institution which 
 developed into Lafayette College, on its removal to Easton. 
 It was always their purpose, how^ever, to erect a new edifice 
 as soon as possible, and by March 181 1, the first subscrip- 
 tion books were opened. In the heading of these books it 
 is specified that the building was to be " for the use of a 
 Christian society, formed on the principles and rules of the 
 Presbyterian Church, under the superintendency of the 
 
I 8 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 General Assembly of said Church in the United States." 
 While this work of preparation was going on, Mr. Dunn 
 received ordination, June 19, 181 1; the Presbytery of 
 Philadelphia meeting for that purpose in the Methodist 
 Church of Germantown. Dr. Archibald Alexander pre- 
 sided, Rev. Nathaniel Irwin preached, and Dr. Ashbel 
 Green delivered the charge. It had been intended to 
 confer this ordination the previous year, but some technical 
 difficulties prevented. 
 
 The site for the building was then chosen, and an 
 agreement made with its owner, John Detweiler, for 
 eight hundred pounds. At the same meeting a Building 
 Committee was appointed, consisting of Joseph Miller, 
 Henry Bruner, Joseph Jacobs, William Sinclair, Robert 
 Bringhurst, William Stewart, Jr., Jacob Miller and George 
 I. Howell ; Joseph Miller being Treasurer and Isaac 
 Robardeau Secretary. July 30, the building was staked 
 off; August 5, ground was broken; August 21, the deeds 
 were finally signed by Mr. Detweiler and wife, after the 
 reluctance of the latter had been overcome by giving her 
 fifty dollars extra for signing, and promising her one 
 hundred cabbages to replace the set vegetables then 
 growing in the garden. The details of all these trans- 
 actions are recorded with great minuteness by Mr. 
 Robardeau. Sept. 10, the corner-stone was laid. Dr. 
 Blair presiding, and Rev. Mr. Dunn making the address. 
 In January, 1812, an effort was made, which was repeated 
 in 1 815, to procure legislative sanction for the holding of 
 a lottery to raise ^12,000; but this project, which was 
 in those days quite as ordinary as church fairs are now, 
 was never carried into effect. In February, 181 2, the 
 committee, "under a due sense of the benevolent labors 
 of Mr. Dunn," rented him a parsonage, paying for it by 
 subscription. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. I 9 
 
 The record closes thus: "Resolved, That the com- 
 mittee, sensible of the obligations which they, in common 
 with their fellow citizens in the vicinity, are under to Mr. 
 Dunn for his disinterested and affectionate attentions, 
 direct that this testimony of their gratitude and disposition 
 to reward his services be entered on the Records of the 
 Church, at the same time regretting that, from the present 
 situation of the institution, it is out of their power to offer 
 him suitable compensation." 
 
 In April, Presbytery commended this church to the city 
 congregations for aid, on the suggestion of Dr. Blair. 
 
 On Sabbath, July 19, 1812, the church building was 
 dedicated to God, Mr. Dunn holding the dedicatory 
 services at 11 A. m., and Dr. Alexander preaching at 4 p. m. 
 
 It was forty-five feet wide, sixty-five feet deep, and the 
 ceiling had a height of thirty feet at the cornice and 
 thirty-three feet at the apex. It cost ^17,000, (part of 
 which was still unpaid, however) and was a substantial 
 and creditable structure. 
 
 During the same month an agreement was made by Dr. 
 Blair and Mr. Joseph Miller for an organ of fourteen 
 stops, costing $1200, to be finished within one year by 
 Alexander Schlotman. Mr. Miller added to his other 
 useful offices, that of organist for many years. August 30, 
 the first communion service was held in the new church, 
 twenty-seven communicants partaking. 
 
 October 26,' Joseph Miller, Samuel Blair, Henry Brunei- 
 and William Turnbull were ordained to the eldership. In 
 March, 1813, a Board of Deacons was ordained. On the 
 second Thursday in May, Mr. Dunn was finally installed 
 as Pastor, Rev. Messrs. Potts, Latta and Doake taking 
 part in the service. Mr. Dunn's salary was $800. In 
 June additional elders and deacons were ordained. In 
 April, 1814, the first election under the charter was held. 
 
20 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH . 
 
 This charter provided for giving the care of temporal 
 affairs to a "Vestry" consisting of twenty-six members, 
 serving for four years. The elders were permanent 
 members ex officio : the others were divided into four 
 classes, and one class was elected each year. Dr. Blair 
 was the first president of this Vestry ; Joseph Miller 
 treasurer and John Cameron secretary. In June, 1814, it 
 is recorded that on account of Mr. Dunn's ill health, the 
 afternoon service was omitted and the evening service 
 continued, which indicates that three services had been 
 held previously. This is one among many indications of 
 Mr. Dunn's energy and faithfulness. 
 
 In October, 1815, Mr. Dunn resigned his charge on 
 account of ill health, which prevented his maintaining 
 such active work. 
 
 He had been preaching continuously to this people, 
 since the summer of 1809; in the German Reformed 
 edifice at first, then at Dr. Blair's and in the new church. 
 When he began this work, he was some forty-seven years 
 of age, and known as an able and attractive preacher. 
 Contemporary records show that he produced a decided 
 impression for good upon the community at large; and on 
 the part of the congregation it is said that " God has sent 
 unto us in a very remarkable manner a preacher eminently 
 qualified for this glorious work, in whom all are united, 
 and whose ministry has hitherto been greatly blessed." 
 He afterward resided chiefly at Newport, R. I., until his 
 death in 1833; and we are glad to know that the same 
 qualities which enabled him to be of so inestimable benefit 
 to the church in this place have in his descendants 
 produced similar results elsewhere. His grandson, Rev. 
 Robinson Potter Dunn, D. D., was well known as pastor 
 of the First Presbyterian Church of Camden, New Jersey, 
 and Professor in Brown University: he also received a call 
 
IN GERMAXTOWN. 2 I 
 
 to the pastorate of this church in subsequent years. We 
 regret that the limits of this sketch prevent our dwelling 
 at length upon his noble character and work, or that of 
 the pastors who succeeded him. 
 
 Before the end of November, 1S15, Session and Vestry 
 made an agreement with Rev. George Bourne, member of 
 the Presbytery of Lexington, in Virginia, to sup])ly the 
 pulpit for a year ; two services to be held on Sabbath and 
 one on Thursday evening : salary, $600. Mr. Bourne 
 informed the Session that action had been taken against 
 him by the Presbytery of Lexington, chiefly on account 
 of his bold denunciation of slavery ; but it refused to give 
 any weight to these charges, and in January, 1816, he 
 began regular service in Germantown. 
 
 In March, the Presbytery of Philadelphia notified the 
 church that this action was deemed irregular, whereupon 
 the people warmly sustained Mr. Bourne : indeed, they 
 carried it so far that Dr. Blair resigned his seat in 
 Presbytery and the church withdrew from connection with 
 it. On June 16, Mr. Bourne was formally elected pastor 
 of the church. 
 
 In March, 1S17, we find the church settling some 
 dififtculties which had arisen among the people in con- 
 sequence of this ecclesiastical position, by calling upon 
 Rev. Messrs. Ely, Staughton, Wilson, Parker and Patterson 
 to act as an advisory council. 
 
 In May, the General Assembly referred back Mr. Bourne's 
 case to the Presbytery of Lexington, on account of the 
 insufficiency of proof against him and the over-severity of 
 his sentence. 
 
 In October, Dr. Blair resumed his .seat as a member of 
 the Presbytery of Philadelphia, Dr. William Neill and 
 Mr. Dunn having conferred with him on behalf of that 
 body. 
 
22 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 In January, 1818, steps were taken by the church vestry 
 towards re-uniting with the Presbytery ; and on March 
 29th, at a church meeting moderated by Dr. Ely, a letter 
 was addressed to it requesting to be considered as again 
 one of its constituents, and asking it to sanction Mr. 
 Bourne's officiating as stated minister for the present. On 
 April 21, the Presbytery did accordingly receive the church 
 again into membership. 
 
 In May, however, the General Assembly of the year 
 decided against Mr. Bourne. This occasioned a division 
 of sentiment among the congregation ; but as the officers 
 took decided action in support of the General Assembly's 
 authority, Mr. Bourne withdrew in June, with the purpose 
 of forming a new. organization. On July 14th, we find the 
 Presbytery, on application of the elders from this church, 
 appointing supplies for the pulpit. July 27, the vestry 
 appointed a committee to choose arbitrators between Mr. 
 Bourne and the church. On September 13th, Mr. Bourne 
 organized the " Shiloh Independent Church" in German- 
 town, with thirty members. It continued in existence 
 only a few months, however. 
 
 Mr. Bourne was of English birth, and was licensed in 
 London, A. D. 1804. The next ten years of his life were 
 spent in Virginia and Maryland. After leaving German- 
 town, he took charge of an academy at Sing Sing and 
 supplied the Presbyterian pulpit. He was afterward pastor 
 of the Congregational Church at Quebec ; then at New York 
 City, and at West Farms, in Reformed Dutch churches. 
 He died in 1845, aged sixty-five. He was a man of 
 considerable literary attainments as well as personal piety; 
 and his power is sufficiently shown by his fearless attacks 
 upon slavery in Virginia and upon popery in Quebec. It 
 is gratifying to know that he survived these troublous 
 experiences at Gcrmnr.town for nearly thirty years, and 
 
IN GERMAXTOWN. 23 
 
 continued in the work of the ministry up to old age with 
 so great power and usefuhiess. The church roll showed 
 twenty-nine members at his accession : he added forty to 
 the list, and has left on record thirty-six baptisms. 
 
 In October, 1818, Dr. William Neill and Rev. Mr. 
 Potts were appointed a committee to visit and counsel the 
 Germantown Church on behalf of Presbytery ; and in 
 December, Dr. Neill introduced to that body Rev. James 
 Rooker, with the view of having him recognized as pastor 
 of this church. Mr. Rooker was accordingly accepted as 
 a licentiate, (December 17,) with expressions of high regard 
 for himself and appreciation of his previous usefulness as 
 an Independent. He, like both of his predecessors, was 
 of English birth, and was at this time sixty-two years of 
 age ; but although a man of great experience and worth, 
 seems to have had no ordination until June, 18 19, when he 
 was ordained and installed as pastor of this church. Dr. 
 Neill presided ; Rev. Thomas H. Skinner preached the 
 sermon, and Rev. J. K. Burch gave the charges. 
 
 April 25, 1819, " a Sunday School was opened in the 
 church for instructing the children to read and learn by 
 heart portions of Scripture." By a record in 1825, we fmd 
 that the church was in the habit of regular contributions to 
 the "United Foreign Missionary Society," by collections 
 taken at the monthly concerts. April 20th, 1826, Mr. 
 Rooker resigned his pastoral charge from infirm health and 
 advanced age, though he continued to administer the ordi- 
 nances until his death in December, 1828, at the age of 
 seventy-three. The church records show that he found 
 thirty-one members enrolled at his accession ; he added 
 fifty-six, and performed seventy-four baptisms. He is 
 remembered, however, less by such details of work than by 
 the deep impression made by his beautiful christian cha- 
 racter. In the interval which followed his resignation, 
 there occurred another crisis in the church history. 
 
24 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 In April, 1827, there being some $3000 debt on the 
 church, the property was deeded over to Rev. Drs. E. S. 
 Ely and J. J. Janeway, of the Presbytery of Philadelphia, 
 on condition of their assuming this debt ; and for about 
 five years the title to the property was in their hands. 
 On Mr. Rooker's death, Rev. James Nourse supplied the 
 pulpit during 1829 and part of 1830, adding eight to the 
 roll. After several other brethren had taken charge for 
 shorter periods, Rev. Dr. George Junkin preached for 
 several months, adding twenty-two to the roll of members. 
 He was then principal of the "Manual Labor Academy" 
 in Germantown, and is said in his biography to have found 
 here "a good church building, with the nucleus of a con- 
 gregation." 
 
 In September, 1831, Dr. William Neill, who had long 
 been familiarly acquainted with the church, assumed per- 
 sonal charge of it, remaining in this connection until 
 September, 1842. With Dr. Neill in regular charge, the 
 condition of affairs began to improve, and the congregation 
 prepared to resume control of their property. 
 
 It seemed desirable, however, to make several changes 
 in the constitution of the church ; and, to accomplish this, 
 the members of the " English Presbyterian Church " caused 
 themselves to be organized by Legislative act (June 12, 
 1832) into a new corporation, with a new title, viz. : " The 
 First Presbyterian Church in Germantown." There has 
 been no serious incumbrance on the property since the 
 church has borne the present title. Several small claims 
 did remain unsatisfied for some years; but on August 21, 
 1836, it is recorded as " being free from all debt whatever." 
 
 It was by no means strong in its number of members, 
 however, for a long time after this. 
 
 During Dr. Neill' s connection with the church, we find 
 Mr. William D. Howard (afterward the Rev. Dr. Howard 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 25 
 
 of Pittsburgh) serving as elder, and as President of the 
 Board of Trustees, 1835-38. 
 
 In 1838, the use of the church building on Sabbath 
 afternoons and evenings was given to the German Reformed 
 church pending the completion of their new edifice. 
 
 In August, 1S41, a congregational library was established 
 by Dr. Neill. 
 
 In September of 1842, he resigned his position, and 
 passed his declining years in retirement, at his home in 
 Philadelphia. He is well-known throughout the entire 
 church from the prominent positions he heid as Stated 
 Clerk of General Assembly, &c. He had already filled a 
 long life with good deeds when he came to Germantown, 
 and his residence here is still remembered with great 
 interest. He admitted forty-three members, and performed 
 fifty-eight baptisms. 
 
 From September, 1842, until April, 1850, Rev. Thomas 
 B. Bradford had charge of the church. He found fifty-three 
 enrolled members; added one hundred and twenty-five, and 
 performed sixty-five baptisms. There is little of strongly- 
 marked incident recorded of these years, but they have 
 had a decided influence for good on the character of the 
 church ; its whole spirit became more hopeful and aggressive. 
 He resigned his charge in 1850, on account of painful 
 bodily ailments ; and was never able to resume pastoral 
 work, although rendering considerable services to weak 
 churches in his own vicinity, until his death, in 1871, after 
 a long and painful illness. 
 
 From October, 1850, until June, 1852, Rev. Septimus 
 Tustin, D. D., performed a good work in this congregation. 
 Fifty-six were added to its membership, and the tide of 
 prosperity was rising steadily, when he felt himself called 
 in another direction, and was dismissed by the church with 
 great reluctance. He also is widely known throughout 
 
26 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 the church as pastor of several important congregations, 
 chaplain for many years in Congress, and especially as 
 delegate from the Old School General Assembly to that of 
 the New School, in 1863, inaugurating the Re-union move- 
 ment. Dr. Tustin died in September, 187 1 ; so that of all 
 the pastors up to this year (1852) not one remains yet alive. 
 
 They deserve much larger notice than it is possible to 
 give them within these brief pages. We are thankful to 
 know that they are not dependent for reward or appreciation 
 upon us : that there is a record on high, wherein is no 
 omission, a Master who is not unjust to forget their "work 
 and labor of love." Theirs is the fame which is not 
 confined to earth, where it can only sound over their 
 unhearing bodies ; but that which comes to their glorified 
 spirits, from the souls whom they led after them to heaven, 
 and from the blessed angels, and from that King whose 
 generous praise is given to every good and faithful servant. 
 Not because they need it, but for our own sakes, do we 
 call to mind their work in the cause of this church ; so 
 patient and persevering through trials and difficulties which 
 we know to have been neither few nor small. The high 
 regard in which they were held by the community at large, 
 as men who were, on the whole, of decidedly more than 
 usual ability, and of true devotion and earnestness, was 
 itself no small help to the church. 
 
 It needs to be remembered that the field in which they 
 labored bears a very different aspect in our day from that 
 which it then presented. Instead of being a lovely but 
 somewhat remote country village, inhabited largely by men 
 speaking a foreign tongue, Germantown has become an 
 integral part of Philadelphia itself. It was always attrac- 
 tive and comparatively populous. Before the Revolution, 
 it is said to have had "more houses and people than any 
 other town in the Province, except Philadelphia and 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 2^] 
 
 Lancaster." There were hardly more than 2000 inhabi- 
 tants, however, when this church was organized; in 1830 
 it claimed to have 4000. The growth in later years was 
 far more rapid. 
 
 The change from its foreign aspect was very gradual. 
 In 1709, the English Government refused to continne its 
 land-owners in possession of their land, unless they became 
 naturalized ; but in speech and habits they were found to 
 be still German, even in 1793, when the National Govern- 
 ment, with Washington at is head, came to Germantown 
 for a time, to escape the yellow fever in Philadelphia. 
 From that time onward, however, so many English- 
 speaking residents came in, that the inevitable change 
 began ; a change with which this church, as we have seen, 
 had much to do. It is interesting to read Watson's 
 description of the place in those days, with its " houses of 
 dark, moss-grown stone, and of sombre and prison-like 
 aspect, with little old-fashioned windows, and monstrous 
 corner chimneys formed of stone ; " and of its being such 
 a "very long town," with houses in little groups, with 
 intervals between, for several miles along the road ; this 
 road itself being in very bad condition generally, so that 
 most of the travel was on horseback. And yet, within 16 
 years after the date of which he speaks, it was connected 
 with Philadelphia (in 1831) by railway, though not until 
 1854 did it become, as now, the 22d Ward of that city. 
 
 In these various ways, so great a change of population has 
 been effected, that church life is of course, very different 
 from what it was. Comparatively few of the old German 
 families are now to be found in this congregation; and it 
 is no longer the only Presbyterian Church in the place. 
 
 Partly from its membership, there was formed in 1852 
 the Chestnut Hill Church, and in 1857 the Second Church 
 of Germantown. In 1856, the old German Reformed 
 
28 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 Congregation had itself become Presbyterian also, con- 
 necting itself, however, with the New School body; the 
 other three churches here being Old School. It has been 
 amidst tendencies like these, that the three most recent 
 pastorates have carried on their work. Of these, the first 
 was that of Rev. Henry J. Van Dyke. He was born near 
 Germantown, on the corner of Washington Lane and the 
 Old York Road ; studied theology at Princeton, and also 
 under Rev. Albert Barnes and Dr. Brainerd ; was ordained 
 and installed pastor of the Second Church, Bridgeton, N. 
 J., in June, 1845, remaining there for the next seven years. 
 
 In July, 1852, he was called to this church, and in 
 October following, was installed ; the services being in 
 charge of Rev. Dr. William Neill, Rev. Jacob Belville, 
 and Rev. Dr. Robert Steel. 
 
 Mr. Van Dyke had not been quite a year in this position, 
 when in May, 1853, he felt constrained to accept the 
 urgent call which had been given him by the First 
 Presbyterian Church in Brooklyn, New York. Since then, 
 he has become widely known and honored as Moderator 
 of the General Assembly, and in other ways. The church 
 in Germantown dismissed him very reluctantly. Some 
 fourteen members were added during his brief stay. 
 
 For the next sixteen years, from September, 1853, to 
 July, 1869, the Rev. James H. Mason Knox, D. D., had 
 the pastoral charge. He was born in New York city, 
 educated at Columbia College, and the Theological 
 Seminary at New Brunswick, and licensed by the Classis 
 of New York. His first pastoral charge was at German 
 Valley, N. J., when he was ordained and installed by the 
 Presbytery of Newton : and he afterward removed to the 
 Reformed Dutch Church at Easton, Penna., where a fine 
 building was erected, and paid for during his stay. 
 
 He was installed in this church, November 9th, 1853, 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 29 
 
 his father, Rev. Dr. John Knox, of the Collegiate 
 Reformed Church in New York city, preached the sermon, 
 and Rev. Roger Owen, of Cliestnut Hill, giving the 
 charges. This was the longest of all the pastorates, and 
 that which witnessed most of the changes to which we 
 have already referred. Immediately after the coming of 
 Dr. Knox in 1854, extensive alterations were made in the 
 church building, so that for the Sunday School and for 
 evening lectures, there was provision made, in rooms 
 separate from the main audience-room. This Avas effected 
 by making the edifice consist of two stories, instead of one, 
 as heretofore. On the lower floor, besides the pastor's 
 study, etc., was the Sunday School or Lecture Room, in 
 which there still remained the old-fashioned square pews 
 which had been occupied for so many years in the church 
 services. Their ample space was perhaps more suggestive 
 than the narrower modern slips, of the fact that a church 
 is meant to have as .its members, not individuals merely, 
 but families. The scriptural teaching on that point, 
 however, was not at any time more positive or effective, 
 than during the pastorate in which this change was made. 
 
 The body of Sabbath worshippers was thus brought to 
 the upper story, where they were provided with a room of 
 ample height, and were brought at last within easy distance 
 of the pulpit, which had in former years towered far above 
 them in the air. The church building was renewing its 
 youth, and became much more convenient and useful 
 than before. 
 
 The improvement in its edifice may be taken as an indi- 
 cation of a corresponding access of new life throughout the 
 church itself. One token of this is found in the very fact 
 that these alterations were undertaken at no less a cost than 
 $7000, which was no small sum for a congregation such as 
 this had been. In fact, it is one of the especial features of 
 
30 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 this pastorate, frequently recognized as such, that the spirit 
 of liberality in giving to christian enterprises, was so 
 successfully fostered. Instead of being, as at its best estate 
 hitherto, barely self-supporting, or even dependent on the 
 Home Mission Board for assistance, the church became 
 henceforth a generous giver to gospel work outside of its 
 own bounds. This was not merely from the new families 
 who were attracted into its membership, but from the patient 
 and faithful development of this grace in the congregation 
 at large. Contributions increased in far greater proportion 
 than did the wealth of the people, and since the giving 
 was made to depend not on impulse, but on christian and 
 scriptural principle, its results in the people have not been 
 temporary, but life-long; by no means ceasing to bear 
 fruit, even after the removal to another field, of the hand 
 which had given this training. There was raised for 
 religious purposes during the pastorate of Dr. Knox some- 
 what more than ^107,000, of which amount ^63,229 were 
 sent to the various missionary and benevolent boards of 
 the church at large. Since this came from growth in 
 grace, and not solely from growth in riches, it is of course 
 good evidence of other spiritual progress, which may not 
 be so easily described in words. Dr. Knox received two 
 hundred and seventy-five persons into membership, and 
 performed one hundred and sixty-eight baptisms. 
 
 He resigned his position in July, 1869, and has been for 
 several years in charge of the church in Bristol, Penna., 
 within the same Presbytery as Germantown. His continued 
 interest in this church, and our affectionate remembrance 
 of him, are evidenced continually by the manner in which 
 his presence is invited and welcomed on any occasion of 
 special importance in the life of his old people. 
 
 In October, 1869, Rev. J. Frederic Dripps was invited 
 to supply the pulpit, and shortly afterward arrangements 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 3 I 
 
 were commenced for having him called to the pastoral 
 charge ; but at his own request this was postponed for a 
 month, to enable more intelligent action on both sides. 
 At the expiration of this time he was 'given the call 
 unanimously, on January 3d, 1870. 
 
 He was born in Philadelphia, and graduated at the 
 University of the City of New York, and at the Princeton 
 Theological Seminary. In the interval which elapsed after 
 graduation, and before coming to Germantown, he had 
 preached for six months, during the pastor's absence, in 
 the First Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis, and afterward 
 for eight months in the American Presbyterian Church of 
 Montreal, Canada. He was ordained and installed in 
 Germantown, March 7, 1870, Rev. Mr. Beggs presiding as 
 Moderator of the Presbytery ; Rev. Dr. John Hall of New 
 York preaching the sermon, Rev. Dr. Withrow (then of 
 Philadelphia) giving the charge to the pastor, and Rev. 
 Dr. Murphy of Frankford, giving that to the people. 
 
 One of the earliest movements in the church, under this 
 pastorate, was that which looked toward the erection of a 
 new house of worship. It is pleasant to remember that 
 this step, like so many of those which we have already 
 recorded, came from motives which were not those of 
 worldly ambition, but of sincere desire for more effective 
 work and worship. It is, at times, the case that even 
 when some christian enterprise does end in good, yet its 
 beginning is made under somewhat questionable circum- 
 stances ; so that a church may be born of dissension, or an 
 edifice erected from the mere spirit of display. It is, 
 therefore, cause for sincere thankfulness to God that we 
 can ascribe to His own grace and guidance this building ; 
 even as we cah trace to Him the origin of the former 
 building, of the congregation itself, and of the very com- 
 munity in which it is situated. 
 
32 FIRST PRESP.YTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 In April, 1870, the spiritual influence of the communion 
 season continued to show itself in a permanently increased 
 attendance at the usual weekly prayer-meetings, and that 
 to an extent sufficient to produce the necessity for increased 
 accommodations in the lecture-room. A collection was 
 made for this purpose on the ist of May. On the 17th of 
 May, the Trustees met to arrange for executing the work, 
 but found themselves planning -so many other improve- 
 ments, that they were led to think seriously of erecting an 
 entirely new edifice. This project had encountered so 
 many obstacles whenever attempted previously, that the 
 expectation of success was not at all sanguine. Still, as it 
 seemed to be a plain duty to make the effort, it was 
 undertaken. 
 
 One great difficulty had always been that of finding the 
 proper site. The lot occupied by the old building was too 
 irregular in shape to be desirable, and its value for business 
 purposes made its sale expedient. It was not easy, however, 
 to find a new site, satisfactory in other respects, which 
 would be convenient for this widely-scattered congregation, 
 without interfering with any other church. At this precise 
 juncture, a property was offered for the purpose in a manner 
 which we certainly have warrant for considering provi- 
 dential. The property itself had not been for sale before 
 this time, forming, as it did, a large part of the garden 
 attached to a private residence ; and even had it been 
 offered to us at any earlier date, there were obstacles on 
 the other side, preventing its acceptance by this church. 
 Every obstacle seemed now to be removed, however, as 
 quickly as presented, and as the site was entirely convenient 
 for the congregation, was on an avenue as desirable as any 
 in Germantown, and was so satisfactory in other respects, 
 the offer was accepted. The congregation formally author- 
 ized the sale of the old property and purchase of the new 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 33 
 
 one, July ii. The fall was spent in procuring suitable 
 plans for the building. The time of year when we were 
 enabled to make this decision, was so ordered as exactly to 
 suit both our need of time for full preparation, and our 
 desire to make a start with the very beginning of the 
 building season. The general plans furnished by Mr. 
 James H. Windrim, the architect, being selected, the 
 matter was formally laid before the congregation by the 
 pastor on Sabbath, December ii, and within the week the 
 sum of $20,000 was subscribed. This amount, in addition 
 to the value of the old property, gave so solid a foundation 
 pecuniarily, that Building and Finance Committees were 
 appointed at once, and went vigorously to work. 
 
 On the Building Committee were Messrs. T. Charlton 
 Henry, William Adamson, Thomas MacKellar, Enoch 
 Taylor, Woodruff Jones and Thomas H. Garrett ; Messrs. 
 Henry, Adamson and MacKellar being given personal 
 supervision of the work. 
 
 The Finance Committee consisted of Messrs. James 
 Garrett, James Kinnier, Dr. G. H. Burgin, Jonathan 
 Graham, Charles W. Henry and W. B. MacKellar. 
 
 February i6th, the contract was let to Messrs. James 
 Kinnier and Sons, and early in March ground was broken. 
 The nature of the soil threatened to prevent the securing 
 of a good foundation ; but, by the marked personal energy 
 of the contractors, every ditificulty was overcome, and a solid 
 rock foundation was at last secured for the whole building. 
 From that time, everything went on prosperously, even in 
 little things. The stone, which was from a newly-opened 
 quarry, turned out to be excellent ; all the other material 
 proved satisfactory, and the different classes of workmen 
 made such close connection one with another that no time 
 was lost through delays. No injury to life or limb was 
 permitted ; the workmen proved to be honest and obliging, 
 
34 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 and the contractors, .by their faithful and disinterested 
 exertions, carried as they were, beyond all that could have 
 been required of them., showed plainly that their chief aim 
 was to present the church of which they had so long been 
 members, with an edifice which would be found thoroughly 
 substantial and satisfying. 
 
 Not only in the contractors, and the Building Committee, 
 and the larger subscribers, but throughout the whole mass 
 of the congregation, a spirit of zeal and devotion was 
 manifest throughout the work. All contributions were 
 voluntary, no extraneous means were needed ; the sending 
 out blank subscription cards secured abundant returns. 
 The liberality of these gifts on the part of all classes was 
 the more noticeable, because of the fact that no other part 
 of church work was suffered to flag on account of this. 
 It was, indeed, a period of unusual energy in all kinds of 
 christian work. 
 
 The pleasure experienced from the unity and good 
 feeling of the congregation itself, was almost equalled by 
 that which came from the kindly interest and sympathy of 
 the other churches and of the community in general. 
 
 An additional favor was shown in enabling us to dispose 
 of the old building in a way so unusually satisfactory ; it 
 was sold to the Young Men's Christian Association of 
 Germantown, under circumstances exceedingly pleasant and 
 gratifying to both parties. In short, the Lord gave help 
 and guidance in every direction, far beyond what was 
 anticipated. On the morning of Sabbath, May 12, 1872, 
 the substance of the foregoing sketch was given to the 
 congregation, in preparation for the farewell service in the 
 old building, which was held on the same evening. The 
 new edifice was used during the next week for a prayer 
 meeting on Wednesday and social meeting on Friday, both 
 held in the "Children's Church," as it was called, and 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 35 
 
 _ very largely attended. On Sabbath morning, May 19, the 
 first service was held in the church proper, its object being 
 to recognize this building as a gift from God to us; in the 
 evening we solemnly gave it again to Him at the dedication 
 service. 
 
 On this occasion there were in the pulpit and partici- 
 pating in the exercises, Rev. J. H. M. Knox, D. D., R. 
 D. Harper, D. D., E. P. Cowan and A. McCuUagh, with 
 the pastor of the church, while the congregations of the 
 Market Square, and the Second Presbyterian Churches, 
 and of Trinity Lutheran Church, combined with our own 
 to produce an audience which filled not only the pews, but 
 the aisles and every passage and entrance-hall. The 
 dedicatory prayer was offered by the pastor, and the 
 sermon preached by Rev. Robert D. Harper, D. D., from 
 Haggai ii. 9 ; Rev. Dr. Knox closing with the benediction 
 from Numbers vii. 24-26. The hymns and anthems were 
 rendered by a large choir under the direction of Mr. 
 Woodruff Jones. 
 
 The following is a brief description of the new edifice : 
 It is situated on the north side of Chelten Avenue, 
 about two hundred feet west of Germantown Avenue, and 
 consists of a church proper with transverse building in the 
 rear for lecture room, etc. The entire length is one 
 hundred and thirty-seven feet, and the extreme width 
 eighty-eight feet ; the apex of the roof rising sixty-six feet 
 from the ground, and the spire one hundred and fifty feet. 
 The masonry is of gneiss rock, with selected facings. Two 
 vestibules, at opposite corners of the front, afford entrance 
 to the church proper, which is eighty feet long, fifty-nine 
 feet wide, and forty-four in height to the apex of the 
 ceiling. The organ and choir occupy a raised platform in 
 the alcove between the two front vestibules, the pulpit 
 alcove being at the opposite end of the room. Abundant 
 
36 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 light is secured during the day, by the large double 
 windows on each side and the rose-window in front, forty 
 feet in circumference ; and at night by two large reflectors 
 just below the apex of the ceiling, containing thirty-six 
 burners in each. The whole interior finish is conformed 
 in detail to the style of the building, which is Gothic, of 
 the early decorated type. 
 
 The woodwork, including pulpit and organ case, doors 
 and wainscoting, pews and furniture, is of black walnut, 
 finished in oil with smooth glass. 
 
 The rear building contains on the ground floor, a lecture 
 room and infant-school room ; on the second floor, the 
 main Sunday School room, which is a large and lofty hall, 
 affording a very beautiful "church for the children." 
 Opening from this are the pastor's study and the ladies' 
 parlor, over which is a gallery with alcoves for the Bible 
 classes. The whole effect of this floor is unusually pleasing. 
 Every room and passage in the whole edifice was painted 
 in fresco by Kehrweider Brothers, in the most satisfactory 
 manner. 
 
 Especial care has been given to the ventilation : among 
 the means which are used being ducts which have per- 
 forated openings through the floor, and communicate with 
 a large ventilating shaft, perforated openings in the 
 ceilings, which can he regulated or closed at will, the 
 usual flues in the walls, etc. The architect was James H. 
 Windrim,~Esq., of Philadelphia. A new organ, valued at 
 ^4,300, was constructed by the Messrs. Standbridge, of 
 Philadelphia, under the special supervision of Mr. Wood- 
 ruff Jones, in readiness for the dedication services. In 
 exterior appearance and in quality of tone, it is all that 
 could be desired. 
 
 The total cost of the building and furniture was 
 $70,296.00. Of this amount, $21,564.00, came from the 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. ^il 
 
 sale of the old building and organ, leaving ^48,732.00 as 
 the amount paid in cash by the congregation. The entire 
 valuation of the property is $79,796.00, which includes 
 $9,500 for the ground ; this however, was taken upon a 
 mortgage, having several years before maturity. 
 
 So far as the edifice itself is concerned, including 
 furniture, etc., the arrangements were so made, that 
 payments were distributed over two or three successive 
 years ; and in due time every cent was paid in full. This 
 was almost wholly accomplished by those who had been 
 with us when the work began, for during the execution of 
 such an enterprise, a church can hardly expect to receive 
 any large accessions to its membership from outside. 
 Those who did join us at that time, however, took up at 
 onee their full share with the rest. Subscriptions were 
 made at the beginning of each year during the work, 
 being sent to the Trustees upon cards, furnished for that 
 purpose. Payments were made in advance, either weekly, 
 monthly or quarterly, as preferred by the subscriber. 
 And they came in from all classes, rich and poor, adults 
 and children. 
 
 More than one family from whom five dollars would 
 have been counted a fair gift, sent in this way over fifty 
 dollars in weekly instalments. The poorest member who 
 could give but five or ten cents a week, felt the new 
 church to be his own, as really as the giver of thousands 
 did; and with good reason, for each gave his own proper 
 share. 
 
 No fairs were held, and no appeals made, except the 
 mere statement from time to time, usually but once a year, 
 of the amount needed ; and so far as the pastor was 
 concerned, these annual statements included all the service 
 which was asked of him, in connection with the raising of 
 money. 
 
38 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 In addition to the money which was thus cheerfully 
 given, even during the time of commercial disaster, which 
 came on before the payments were finished, many valuable 
 articles were presented by different members, in token of 
 special interest and affection. Altogether, the erection of 
 this building was not only a fruit of grace, but very 
 decidedly a means of grace in every way. There are only 
 grateful and pleasant associations connected with it. 
 
 It may be well to mention in this connection, the fact 
 that before entering the new edifice, a. change of plan for 
 meeting the current annual expenses was adopted. 
 
 On the 3d of April, 1S72, after considering the subject 
 at two meetings, in successive weeks, the congregation 
 voted to leave it to each member to decide for himself how 
 much he would pay toward church expenses, instead of 
 having it decided for him by the committee on pew rents. 
 This was not done with any idea of calling this a ''free 
 church," nor was any particular name given to the plan, 
 but it was felt that the change from one church building 
 to another, gave a suitable opportunity for arranging this 
 matter in a way which commended itself as more desirable 
 than the former method. 
 
 Accordingly, it Avas agreed that each person or family 
 attending the church should be assigned a permanent seat 
 or pew, on which their name should be kept so long as 
 they continued regularly to occupy it. The ownership and 
 control of each pew remains, however, with the church 
 itself, and not with the occupant ; no person has any claim 
 upon a seat beyond the time during which he regularly 
 uses it. No price has ever been charged for a seat, and no 
 rent was ever assessed. Each regular attendant is of course 
 expected to bear his own share of the common expense, 
 bnt it has been honestly left to the person himself to 
 decide what that share is. At the beginning of each year 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 39 
 
 a printed estimate of the amount which will be required 
 for the next twelve months, is distributed among the 
 congregation, and then blank subscription cards are sent 
 to each person. These are filled out by the persons 
 themselves, who thereby undertake, so far as God shall 
 enable them, to pay a certain amount each week, or month, 
 or quarter, during the year, but the contents of these 
 subscription cards are not made public. The money is 
 paid at the beginning of each week, or month, &c., by 
 inclosing the proper amount in one of the envelopes sent 
 for the purpose, (each of them having upon it certain 
 figures, which indicate to the Treasurer whose it is), and 
 dropping the envelope into the box near the entrance door 
 of the church. It is not known that any person has ever 
 taken unfair advantage of this plan, but on the contrary, 
 far larger amounts were brought in, when each member felt 
 that his share was to be fixed according to the impulse of 
 his own heart and conscience. 
 
 In the first year, instead of ^2000, which had been the 
 largest sum ever paid for pew-rents, some ^4600 were 
 subscribed and paid; next year the amount was $5600, and 
 it has continued to be from ^5500 to ^6000 since then. 
 Great satisfaction is felt with this plan. It prevents any 
 possibility of having pews in the house of God sold like 
 real estate in the public riiarket, to buyers who may have 
 none but a pecuniary interest in them. It retains full 
 control over every seat in the hands of the church itself. 
 It has relieved persons who could not continue to pay as 
 largely as in former years, from any need to explain or 
 apologize, or ask indulgence, since they are always at 
 liberty to adjust their subscription to their means as a 
 matter of right. Should the total amount subscribed prove 
 inadequate, a statement to that effect would be made to 
 the whole congregation, and an increase of ::o much per 
 
40 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 cent, on each subscription would be requested. The 
 response to this appeal also would be voluntary, but it has 
 proved none the less reliable on that account. 
 
 Another subject, closely connected with this, which also 
 received careful ^attention for some years, was that of 
 systematic beneficence; /. e., the collecting of money, not 
 for the operations of the congregation itself, but for outside 
 objects of a missionary or charitable nature. The year in 
 which this pastorate began was the same as that which 
 witnessed the Re-union between Old School and New 
 School; and that event was followed by much effort to 
 increase and systematize benevolent contributions. So far 
 as this particular church is concerned, no change was 
 made in the method formerly used. 
 
 One Sabbath in the year is designated for a collection in 
 behalf of each of those regular objects of benevolence, 
 which are under the charge of the Boards of the Presbyterian 
 Church. Notice is always given to the congregation on 
 the preceding Sabbath, and a careful explanation of the 
 object for which money is asked, is given at the time by the 
 pastor. The contributions are received in plates handed 
 around as usual, and before being finally sent off, the 
 collection is retained in the Treasurer's hands for a week, 
 in order that any persons who were not present at the time 
 may send in their gifts to him. This latter opportunity is 
 constantly used, and the plate collection is considerably 
 increased by the sums voluntarily sent in by those who 
 were absent or unprepared when it was taken. 
 
 It has been found by experience, that this plan com- 
 mends itself by its results, quite as well as some far more 
 elaborate methods which were proposed to us ; and it 
 should be understood that our disinclination to change is 
 the result, not at all of neglecting to examine these other 
 plans, but of finding them not so satisfactory to us as the 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 4 1 
 
 old way. For example, one system frequently suggested, 
 was that of asking each member to subscribe in advance, 
 whatever sum he could, for external benevolent purposes 
 in general, during the year ; the total amount so raised, 
 being then divided by the Session aipong the various 
 Boards, in proportion to their respective claims. This was 
 called by its advocates "The Systematic Plan," but the 
 advantages which it claimed have been secured quite as 
 well by the old system. The "Plate Collection" is as 
 really a system, with regular results, as this other scheme. 
 It does not, in our experience, leave the amouut for each 
 Board to be reduced indefinitely by such casualties as the 
 occurrence of stormy weather on the collection Sabbath, 
 for, as stated above, all the larger givers, and many of the 
 others, are in the habit of sending in their gifts afterward, if 
 prevented at the time. It was claimed for the new scheme, 
 that it made christian giving to be matter of principle, and 
 not dependent on the impulse of special appeals ; but it is 
 difficult to see why principle may not be aided, as well 
 as impulse, by an explanation from the pulpit, of each 
 particular object, at the time when it is presented for 
 contributions. And the new plan was felt by us to be 
 "systematic" in a very objectionable way, when it inter- 
 fered with the freedom of individual christians to decide 
 the proportion in which they wou-ld devote their voluntary 
 offerings to one and another form of the Lord's work. 
 Every person and every church, has an individuality of its 
 own, with which this general scheme, with its fixed per- 
 centages, was felt to be in conflict. The same end, so far 
 as it is desirable, has been gained by simply explaining to 
 the people the claims of each Board in its turn, and 
 leaving to them the proportioning of their gifts. 
 
 The sum total of contributions made by this church for 
 religious and benevolent purposes, within the last ten 
 
42 
 
 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 years, exceeds $175,000: more than that sum having 
 already been contributed at the beginning of December, 
 1879. Of this amount, over $73,000 were given to objects 
 outside of the church itself, such as Home and Foreign 
 Missions, etc. If is cause of gratitude to God, that He 
 has so maintained the grace of liberality within this 
 people, that during a decade in which they could not help 
 feeling the commercial depression of the times, their gifts 
 for religion were increased and not diminished. This has 
 been effected without resorting to fairs, and similar 
 questionable expedients : against which there has always 
 been a strong feeling in the church. The giving has 
 been from principle, and with every indication of that 
 cheerfulness which God has pronounced well-pleasing to 
 Him. 
 
 The regular annual collections for those departments of 
 christian work, which are carried on by the Boards of our 
 Church, are arranged in the following order, viz. : 
 
 In January, Foreign Missions. 
 
 February, Education. 
 
 March, Sustentation. 
 
 May, Publication. 
 
 September, Church Erection. 
 
 October, Ministerial Relief. 
 
 November, • Home Missions. 
 
 December, Freedmen. 
 
 There is another department of church life which claims 
 attention on the record, namely, that of personal and 
 active effort. One of our earliest movements in this 
 direction, during the last decade, was the organization of 
 the Ladies' Pastoral Aid Society. This took place on the 
 20th of April, 1870. 
 
 There was already in existence a Domestic Mission 
 
IN GERMAXTOWX. 43 
 
 Society, which had been for eighteen years sending boxes 
 to Home missionaries ; and a Bible-readers' Society, with 
 Mother's Meetings under its care : besides which, Dorcas 
 Meetings were held, and collections were made by visitors 
 for the Women's Union Foreign Mission Society. It 
 was important that this Foreign Mission work should be 
 regularly organized and extended, that systematic visiting 
 should be undertaken, and the way opened for still other 
 forms of work. Yet it was evidently undesirable to indefi- 
 nitely multiply separate organizations. The endeavor was 
 therefore made to form a Union of these societies, of such 
 a kind that each could be unfettered in doing its own 
 work, and yet have opportunity for meeting all the others, 
 at regular intervals, for mutual council and aid. This 
 Union or Association could have supervision over all the 
 various societies of which it was formed, by means of a 
 central Executive Committee, while it would in reality be 
 not so much another new society, but rather a combination 
 of those which already existed. 
 
 In all but name, this is the precise thing which was done. 
 The new organization was called the Pastoral Aid Society, 
 and each of the societies which combined to form it, had 
 its title changed to that of " Standing Committee." But 
 the "Bible-reader's Committee" continued to have every 
 ■power which it had possessed while it was called the 
 "Bible-reader's Society;" it did the same work, had the 
 same officers, and was, within itself, entirely the same as 
 before. The only new feature was in its external relations ; 
 it had agreed to unite with the other committees, and 
 to give general supervision of its affairs to this Union. 
 The supervision, however, was hardly more than nominal, 
 for its sole object was to advise and help, if necessary, 
 but not to constrain. As a matter of fact, not only 
 this, but every other committee, has conducted its own 
 
44 
 
 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 affairs, at meetings of its own, as freely as though no 
 Pastoral Aid Society existed. The work of each has been 
 the more energetic, and not the less so, because of its 
 connection with all the rest. . Experience has shown the 
 plan to be easily worked and efficient. Many new forms 
 of work have been carried into successful operation, which 
 would not have been undertaken but for the help afforded 
 by this Society, and the older, more familiar work, has 
 been not only sustained but enlarged. 
 
 There has been the utmost degree of freedom for indi- 
 vidual impulse, and for gratifying personal inclination 
 toward particular kinds of activity, consistent with the 
 benefits of orderly combination and harmony. Whatever 
 sort of christian effort may elicit the interest of any woman 
 in the church, she can find in this Society a ready means 
 of enlisting others to help her, and of forming thus a 
 committee for that particular object. This committee can 
 give information of its condition and needs at every 
 Pastoral Aid Meeting, and thus secure sympathy and aid, 
 while at the same time it is given enough of supervision to 
 keep it from interfering with other and older committees. 
 Obviously, no harm is to be apprehended from multiplying 
 indefinitely the number of such organizations, for they 
 pre-suppose in every case a group of christian women, 
 interested spontaneously in some particular enterprise, 
 which they undertake to carry out in such a way as to 
 refrain from any possible clashing with the other enterprises 
 which are already in operation. 
 
 It should also be noticed that the whole work represented 
 by this society is under the immediate supervision of the 
 Church Session, as its Constitution provides; and that 
 nothing of importance has ever been undertaken in con- 
 nection with it until after full consultation with the pastor. 
 The name of the Society was indeed chosen by the Ladies 
 
IX GERMAXTOWN. 45 
 
 present at the organization, expressly to indicate their 
 intentions in this matter. 
 
 The system itself was so arranged that it might, if 
 possible, continue in operation without needing any essen- 
 tial change: adapting itself to any future emergency which 
 might arise. It is inherently flexible enough to admit 
 of every single committee being discontinued, one after 
 another, if any necessity of that kind may be imagined, 
 and wholly new forms of work taken up; while meantime 
 the Society itself still binds together whatever committees 
 do exist. A copy of the "Constitution and By-Laws," 
 as given in the Annual Report for 1879, "^^i^l ^^ found in 
 the Appendix to this volume; it will be seen that simplicity 
 and brevity have been sought in preparing them. 
 
 A sketch of the various Standing Committees and their 
 work will now be given. It may be well to prefix the 
 remark, that the present number of Committees has been 
 attained only by degrees, in the course of several years ; 
 the Society began with comparatively few of them, and 
 would have been well worth organizing even for its benefit 
 to these, and apart from any idea of forming new ones. 
 
 The Standing Committee os Domestic Missions 
 
 has continued the work of the Domestic Missionary 
 Society, which was founded in 1852, for the purpose of 
 sending relief to needy missionaries under the care of the 
 Presbyterian Board. The aggregate value of the boxes 
 sent by it up to 1870, was about ^10,000. In order to 
 promote the efficiency of church work, it connected itself 
 with the Pastoral Aid Society, on May 4th, 1870: 
 retaining the same President, Secretary and Treasurer, 
 and the same membership as before. In the last ten years, 
 boxes valued at $6,000, have been prepared and sent out. 
 The venerable servants of God who began this work, have 
 
4-6 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN' CHURCH 
 
 shown unfailing interest and devotion for these twenty- 
 seven years, gathering up $16,000 worth of supylies, 
 carefully chosen and adapted to the special needs of each 
 case. Their correspondence with the Home Missionaries 
 receiving these boxes, has sometimes continued for years 
 afterward ; and a relation of permanent friendliness and 
 interest on both sides, has frequently resulted. 
 
 A glance over any of the letters, taken at random from 
 the large collection which remains in possession of the 
 Committee, will satisfy any one of the great good which 
 has been done by this work. In fact, this is so very 
 obvious, that there is little room for giving any expla- 
 nations concerning a form of .Christian effort to be found 
 among so many of our churches. 
 
 The Committee is in the habit of securing the names of 
 several Missionaries from the Board, or from other sources, 
 and selecting those which appear most desirable for corres- 
 pondence and help. Request is then made, through a 
 notice from the pulpit, for suitable gifts in material or in 
 money ; whatever sewing may be needful, being done by 
 the individual givers at their own convenience. When 
 the- Committee next meets, it is to receive and pack these 
 articles, always with special united prayer to God, for His 
 lessing upon givers and receivers alike. On these occasions, 
 which are always attended with much that is interesting, 
 the presence of any fellow-members of the church is very 
 welcome. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Foreign Missions 
 
 began operations with the first business meeting of the 
 Pastoral Aid Society, May 4th, 1870. During the year 
 preceding this, some of the ladies had begun to make 
 collections for the Woman's Union Mission Society; 
 which was of course done with the understanding that this 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 47 
 
 should not interfere with the usual contribution to Foreign 
 Missions by the congregation at large. But it was felt 
 that the time had come for enlarging the Woman's Work, 
 if possible ; and at the meeting above mentioned, this 
 committee was appointed, with the intention of having it 
 take into consideration the whole subject. Its more 
 immediate object was, to represent this church at a 
 convention held the same month in Philadelphia, pre- 
 liminary to the organization of the Woman's Foreign 
 Mission Society of the Presbyterian Church. That 
 organization did not take place for several months, 
 however ; and meantime the ladies in this church had 
 become still more deeply interested than before, in the 
 Woman's Union Foreign Mission Society, and had agreed 
 to contribute to it for the next five years, through the 
 Germantown Auxiliary, which had been formed January 
 19, 1869. This pledge was fulfilled by contributions for 
 the support of Miss Hook in India. No further pledge 
 was given, at the expiration of that time ; but gifts for this 
 society have been received and sent to it yearly, and it is 
 hoped that this will continue to be the case. It is to the 
 Union Society that we as a church owe the first quickening 
 of interest in this great branch of Woman's work ; it was 
 through its success, achieved under all the difficulties 
 which attend pioneer work, that the other and more 
 strictly denominational societies were encouraged . to 
 organize ; and the knowledge of its effectiveness on the 
 Foreign field, combines with our sense of gratitude for its 
 past services, and reverence for the memory of its sainted 
 founder, Mrs. Doremus, to secure from us the continuance 
 of hearty interest and good will. Contributions are 
 received for this object, either through the usual collectors 
 or through the Treasurer of the Committee. The amount 
 of such contributions, up to the first of April, 1879, ^^ 
 $1,019.95. 
 
48 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 The greater part of our work, however, has been carried 
 on through the Woman's Foreign Mission Society of the 
 Presbyterian Church. As already stated, this committee 
 took part in the movements connected with the formation 
 of that society ; but did not complete the relation thus 
 begun until 1872. In November of that year, a meeting 
 was held in the Lecture-room, to receive statements in 
 regard to the work carried on by the women of the 
 Presbyterian Church in heathen lands. So much interest 
 was felt in the addresses made on behalf of that society, 
 and especially in the facts with regard to Japan, that a 
 second meeting was at once held, and after conference 
 with the other ladies in the church, this Committee 
 undertook the duties of an Auxiliary to the Presbyterian 
 Society, and the responsibility of furnishing the entire 
 support for a missionary in Japan. It was proposed that 
 Miss Gamble, who had spent some years with her brother 
 in China, where he was connected with the mission work 
 of our Board, should become our representative at Tokio. 
 She consented so to do, and preparations for her outfit 
 were at once begun. 
 
 Delays occurred, however, which prevented her leaving 
 this country for nearly a year. Meantime the ladies 
 secured from her as many visits as possible, in order to 
 make the new relation more full of personal acquaintance 
 and sympathy : she became, at her own suggestion, a 
 member of this church, and by the time of her departure 
 had been made to feel very much at home in it. A 
 farewell meeting was held on Wednesday evening, October 
 15, 1873, ^^d the next day Miss Gamble left for Japan, 
 where she arrived safely on the 30th of November. From 
 this time the contributions were materially increased. In 
 1870, the amount of our contribution for the Union 
 Society was $75; in 1871, it was $120; and in 1872, it 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 49 
 
 • 
 was $202. In 1873, besides sending I175 to that cause, 
 
 $600 were given for Miss Gamble's outfit, and $125 
 
 towards securing for the school in Tokio, (to which place 
 
 she went) a cabinet organ. In the course of the following 
 
 year, her work was interrupted, in part by ill health, and a 
 
 few months later her connection with us was terminated 
 
 by her departure to China, where her relations have since 
 
 that time been with another denomination. 
 
 Another lady, the wife of Rev. W. M. K. Imbrie, was 
 suggested in her place, but she felt herself obliged to 
 decline, on the ground that for the time she was not able 
 to undertake anything beyond her home duties. Even 
 before her letter reached us, the Board of Missions had 
 taken action which would in any case have interfered with 
 this arrangement, by assigning the field of Tokio, where 
 Mrs. Imbrie resides, to the New York Society, and that 
 of Yokohama to our Philadelphia Society. This change 
 involved a re-adjustment of our plans, which occupied 
 some time. In November, 1876, however, arrangements 
 were completed by which Mrs. John Ballagh became our 
 missionary after January ist of the following year. Since 
 that time, a fresh impulse has been given to the work in 
 all directions, by the helpful and quickening influence 
 which comes from intercourse with this faithful and devoted 
 servant of God. 
 
 It is well to notice, that during the four years which 
 immediately followed our entrance upor> this work, we 
 were carrying it on as matter of principle, without depen- 
 dence upon the stimulus of regular correspondence with a 
 missionary; for until we knew Mrs. Ballagh, there was but 
 a very brief time during which any letter at all came to us 
 from the foreign field. 
 
 The lack of this stimulus was indeed felt ; and especially 
 by those contributors to whom the Woman's Foreign 
 
50 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 » 
 
 Work was entirely a new one. But there was always 
 enough of interest in the work for its own sake, and apart 
 from all craving for the sight o( immediate results, to 
 secure its continuance without any deficiency. 
 
 The contributions which have been made through this 
 committee, as an auxiliary of the Presbyterian Society, 
 amounted, on the 1st of April, 1879, *o $3980.95 : adding 
 to this the $1019.95 given to the Union Society, a total is 
 produced of ^5000 secured for Foreign Mission Work 
 through this organization up to that time. This includes 
 the cost of a cabinet organ sent for Mrs. Ballagh's school 
 in 1879. 
 
 At the beginning, some fears were expressed that these 
 gifts would interfere with the annual contribution from the 
 congregation at large to the Mission Board, but the result 
 has been of a very different kind ; a wider and deeper 
 interest in the whole work of missions has been secured, 
 so that, beside other good results, the annual collection 
 (which does not include any of the sums above referred to) 
 has risen from $462 in 1870, to more than $1000 in 1879 • 
 (^890 being sent to the Board, and the remainder to the 
 Mexican Mission.) 
 
 At this point, some words as to the organization of the 
 Committee will be in place. Its membership is divided 
 into two classes, Contributing and Active. The contri- 
 buting members include all the ladies who give regularly 
 to the support of the work and are members of the church. 
 The Active members are those who are entrusted with the 
 the management of the work itself. The members of this 
 latter class were chosen at first by the pastor, in conference 
 with the Pastoral Aid officers j the object being to secure 
 persons specially interested in missions, and willing to 
 give the required time and trouble. Their numbers are 
 maintained since then, by having the Committee itself 
 
IN GERMANTOWX. 5 I 
 
 nominate and elect new members from time to time, 
 subject to revision by the contributors. A report of all 
 such proceedings is provided for : it is to be made to the 
 contributing members each year, at the annual meeting of 
 the Pastoral Aid Society, where they are expected to be 
 present. It is also understood that during the year, in 
 case the Committee is contemplating any unusual action, 
 of such importance as to make proper a conference with the 
 contributors, report of the same can be made at any Pastoral 
 Aid meeting, and a vote taken thereon. Practically, 
 therefore, so far as the business meetings are concerned, 
 the Committee consists of these "Active members." 
 They elect annually a President, Secretary, and Treasurer. 
 
 These officers represent the Committee in its intercourse 
 with various external bodies, such as the Woman's Union 
 Society, the Presbyterian Society, and that branch of the 
 same which is composed of the churches in this particular 
 Presbytery. The meetings for transaction of business are 
 held monthly, during most of the year. Arrangements 
 are made for having collectors, who call upon the regular 
 contributors at stated intervals, and deliver the sums which 
 are given them, together with the names of the persons 
 contributing, to the Treasurer. 
 
 That officer reports at each regular meeting, so that the 
 committee may be fully acquainted with the condition of 
 the Treasury, and may from time to time secure new 
 subscribers to the list. The Secretary preserves a copy 
 of this roll of contributors and amounts, with the names 
 of collectors, etc. Another part of her duties, in addi- 
 tion to the keeping of minutes, etc., is the copying of 
 letters from our missionary into a suitable book, that they 
 may be kept for reference. Many such letters have been 
 received by different members which contain matter of 
 permanent interest, and meant for the information of all, 
 
52 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 but which, after being once handed around for perusal, are 
 practically inaccessible, unless secured on record in this 
 way. It is understood, of course, that any thing which is 
 intended by Mrs. Ballagh solely for the particular person 
 to whom a letter is addressed, shall be omitted from the 
 copy. All this correspondence is in addition to that 
 which is carried on officially by the Secretary ; and in this 
 fact is seen one of the many tokens which evidence Mrs. 
 Ballagh's overflowing zeal for the work, and her readiness 
 to stimulate the zeal of others. 
 
 One result of the increased interest which has been 
 awakened by her influence, is the formation of several 
 additional Mission Bands. These are under the general 
 supervision of this Committee, which receives their reports 
 and gives them all possible aid and encouragement. 
 
 The first in order of formation, is that called "Willing 
 Workers for Jesus," organized in 1876, by some of the 
 younger girls. They sent a box of materials for fancy 
 work to Mrs. Hepburn's school, where such gifts were 
 very serviceable for their effect in interesting the scholars. 
 In the fall of 1877, they sent a supply of hymn books for 
 Mrs. Ballagh's school, and in the winter a box of sewing 
 materials valued at ^82. 
 
 The Band was able to interest the Infant School of 
 the church, and also the Pulaskiville Sunday School, in 
 preparing this box, so that many a little offering was 
 brought with eager interest by children whose earthly 
 possessions were meagre enough. The Band has given 
 more than $140 in cash for the support of children at 
 school in Japan, and still another box, more valuable than 
 any preceding one, was sent in October, 1S79. 
 
 It holds monthly meetings, at which various items of 
 missionary news are read by different members, and also 
 letters from some of the scholars abroad with whom a 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 53 
 
 correspondence is maintained. In December, 187S, it 
 held a very interesting meeting for young people, at which 
 a large audience gathered to hear Mr. Ono, a Japanese 
 gentleman, and to examine the many curiosities which 
 have been sent from time to time by Mrs. Ballagh and 
 other friends. 
 
 Four other Bands have been formed, by as many 
 different classes in our Sunday Schools ; namely, those 
 taught by Mrs. S. M. Justice, at Somerville, and by Mrs. 
 M. D. Westcott in the Home School, the Home Infant 
 School, and one at Pulaskiville. The " S. M. Justice" 
 Band has shown much of self-denying devotion to the 
 cause; the "Crusaders," formed by boys under Mrs. 
 Westcott's care, entered at once into correspondence with 
 some Japanese boys in Mr. Ballagh 's school, whose letters 
 have proved uncommonly interesting ; and in various 
 other ways good results have been secured through these 
 and the other Bands. 
 
 The largest of these Bands, however, is that called the 
 "Watchers," which was organized January 20th, 1870, for 
 young ladies over sixteen years of age. There are now 
 forty-five names on the roll, and very unusual interest has 
 been shown in its operations by the members and their 
 friends. Every month a meeting is held, at which there is 
 great variety and animation in the exercises. Carefully 
 written articles are brought in and read by those to whom 
 they had been assigned ; the subject being often some 
 particular aspect of the mission field for the month, such as 
 the history of the nation, its geographical and commercial 
 relations, the progress of Christianity, the nature, history 
 or present condition of its heathen religion, etc. At other 
 times more general subjects have been taken. Both in 
 this and in every other feature of the Band work, most 
 encouraging results have been secured by the watchful 
 
54 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 interest of the Leader, who first makes herself familiar 
 with it all, and then is able to give any needful guidance 
 to the members, without in any way doing their work for 
 them. The effort is to enlist as many different persons as 
 possible, and make use of whatever peculiar talent each 
 may have. Much interest was shown during the first year 
 in preparing large maps of the various mission-fields, each 
 of them drawn on muslin with neatness and accuracy. 
 These were soon brought into use in the church mission 
 meetings and elsewhere, besides rendering great assistance 
 to the Band. 
 
 Some of the members are especially charged with caring 
 for the music at these meetings, including not only the 
 usual hymns, but anything else that may be appropriate 
 and feasible. Others bring in various brief items illus- 
 trating heathen life or mission work, taken from any book 
 or paper with which they have met since the last meeting. 
 Still others help to prepare suitable Bible-readings. In all 
 these ways, and by recitations, etc., something is found for 
 every willing hand to do. Those who do not care to 
 undertake a composition of their own, will act as copyists 
 for others. A "Mission Band Post-office" is also in 
 successful operation, so that any who would not otherwise 
 make remarks or suggestions, or even inquiries, may write 
 anything of the kind and have it read by the Leader, who, 
 of course, does not give the writer's name. 
 
 It will be seen, therefore, that one great object of the 
 Band is to train all its members into the habit of reading 
 for themselves the great facts connected with Foreign 
 Missions. It is believed th'at in any church there may be 
 many persons who will drop money into a collection plate, 
 where there are comparatively few who give, in addition to 
 this, an intelligent sympathy and earnest prayerfulness. 
 Such training as this which is here attempted, will not only 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 55 
 
 tend to secure money, but to produce new missionaries, 
 and to fill those who remain at home with the true mission 
 spirit. 
 
 The Band is not meant, however, to neglect those 
 contributions to the mission treasury which are always so 
 welcome. Arrangements are made for enabling any who 
 wish so to do, to earn money of their own for this purpose, 
 by copying, or by doing fancy work and sewing for ladies 
 who require it. Orders are sent through the Band officers. 
 This may open the way for very pleasant sewing meetings. 
 
 A prayer-meeting is held every month by the Band, 
 to which only those are invited who are willing to take 
 part themselves in its exercises, so that there may be no 
 spirit of criticism, but only that of mutual sympathy and 
 help. These services have been of great benefit. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Bible Readers Work. 
 
 This continues the work of the Bible Reader's Associ- 
 ation, which was formed in the Spring of iS68, and 
 connected itself with the Pastoral Aid Society on the 4tli 
 of May, 1870. The Mother's Meeting was originated by 
 t"his Committee. Mrs. Baldwin acted as Bible Reader 
 from March to November 1868; Mrs. Sarah McNeill, from 
 January 1869 to April 1873, ^^'^'^ from Dec. 1874 to Nov. 
 1878; Miss Mary A. Williams holding the position during 
 the period when Mrs. McNeill was matron of the Woman's 
 Christian Association, from Nov. 1873 to Dec. 1874. Miss 
 E. A. Hawley held the position from February to 
 December, 1879, ^.nd Mrs. C. D. Scott is the present 
 incumbent. There has therefore been very little inter- 
 ruption to this work since it began. 
 
 Relief to bodily need was at first included among its 
 objects, but experience has led to the separation of this 
 from the other part of the work. Cases for relief are now 
 
56 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 reported by the Bible Reader to another Committee, while 
 her own work is kept distinct from alms-giving. Each of 
 the ladies named above, has taken the position in the true 
 mission spirit, accepting only salary enough to supplement 
 other means of support. Four afternoons a week are 
 usually spent in visiting. The methods used are various, 
 of course : they include the reading of the Bible itself, 
 religious conversation, especially concerning the benefits 
 of Christianity in the temptations and trials of daily life, 
 with the reading and distribution of tracts and religious 
 papers, etc. The Bible Reader goes as a Christian woman 
 to do that kind of good, which only woman can with 
 eifectiveness do. She visits among the families in the 
 congregation, not merely in cases of sickness and poverty, 
 but wherever as a Christian friend she has access. There 
 are on the outskirts of the congregation, many scores of 
 families who look to this church for religious influence 
 more than to any other, although not in any regular 
 connection even here : the children being usually in 
 attendance upon one of our Sunday-Schools. Among all 
 these she visits, and also among those who are outside 
 of all the churches. In case they most naturally belong to 
 some other church, their attention is turned toward it, and 
 every precaution is taken against even the appearance 
 of proselytism. 
 
 The work among these families who are beyond all 
 church influences, was at first the only object in view: but 
 in the course of time, so many of them came into the 
 congregation, while still needing these ministrations of the 
 Bible Reader, that much of her effort is now turned in this 
 direction. In some years a thousand visits would be 
 made, in others, not more than half that number, 
 according to circumstances. But enough is always done 
 to render this one of our most valuable agencies. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 57 
 
 The Standing Committee on Motheks' Meetings. 
 
 The Bible-reader found Mothers closely kept at home, 
 with little social pleasure and less spiritual opportunities. 
 
 They were invited to meet once a week, and spend an 
 afternoon or evening together sewing, while one of the 
 committee read from some interesting story, closing with 
 devotional exercises ; every opportunity being used for 
 informal conversation on spiritual things, especially on 
 household Christianity. 
 
 The sewing itself was also helpful. At first the material 
 worked upon, was sold them at cost, payable in weekly 
 instalments ; more lately the work of sewing, was itself 
 accepted as payment, at the rate of twenty-five cents for 
 each two hours' meeting. 
 
 A feAv kinds of groceries are furnished, if preferred, in- 
 stead of the material sewed upon, also at cost (wholesale). 
 
 The Standing Committee on Dorcas Work. 
 
 This was originally a Sewing Society, meeting at the 
 church every Friday morning, to sew for the poor, 
 especially for the children of the mission schools, and the 
 cases reported by the Bible-reader. 
 
 For some years past, the members have only met 
 together for arranging the' distribution ; all the sewing 
 being done at home. Garments are now bought already 
 made, or material is bought and distributed to be made 
 up, and then given away. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Relief of the Poor. 
 
 This committee was organized by desire of the Pastor 
 and Elders, Avho felt that this important department of 
 church work would be well cared for by the christian 
 women, who already were doing so efficiently other work 
 of the same kind. 
 
58 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 The membership of the committee is always small, and 
 any changes in it are made after special conference with 
 the Pastor. Experience has fully justified the expectations 
 with which it was organized ; the work has been performed 
 with discreetness, and at the. same time with warm 
 sympathy and entire faithfulness. The fund is contributed 
 by the congregation every Communion Day, in ample 
 amount. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Tracts. 
 
 A committee, small in numbers, and of approved 
 judgment, has it in charge to select Tracts for the Bible- 
 reader's use, and also for the Visiting Committees, who 
 carry around a fresh tract to all our families at each visit. 
 The cost is paid by imposing a fine of ten cents on each 
 member of the Pastoral Aid Society, who is absent from 
 any of its meetings, and giving the sum thus raised to this 
 committee. 
 
 The Standing Committee on the Pulaskiville Sunday 
 School. 
 
 This mission school, and also that at Somerville, are 
 included among the work of the Pastoral Aid Society, 
 because each of them was founded by ladies belonging to 
 the Society, and the money for defraying current expenses 
 has usually been collected by them. 
 
 Of course, the schools are organized as usual, each under 
 a superintendent and officers of its own, annually chosen 
 by the teachers; this election, and all the proceedings in 
 the schools, being always subject to the revision and 
 control of the Church Session. Yet the connection of the 
 schools with the Pastoral Aid Society is still maintained 
 through the committees ; they make known in this way 
 any need which can be supplied by the women of the 
 
IN GERMAXTOWN. 59 
 
 church, and especially make it their business, as above 
 stated, to collect the money for ordinary expenses. 
 
 It was in the same way that a great part of the money 
 necessary for erecting the school buildings was collected. 
 
 At Pulaskiville there was evidently need of such a work 
 as this. The district known by that name is indeed small 
 in size, measuring less than two squares in each direction, 
 but it is estimated to contain some eight hundred souls. 
 And although the place is within a half mile of several 
 churches, its inhabitants greatly needed to have the gospel 
 brought to their own doors. 
 
 The neighborhood was but recently settled, when its 
 necessities were brought home in various ways to two 
 different ladies of this church, Mrs. Jonathan Graham and 
 Miss Mary Mansfield ; they conferred together, and on 
 September 26, 1870, canvassed Pulaskiville for scholars. 
 Pledges were given of the attendance of forty-eight children, 
 and two rooms in a private house were offered for use by 
 the proposed school. Mr. Isaac C. Jones, Jr., agreed to act 
 as Superintendent, and other church families in the part of 
 Germantown nearest Pulaskiville became active in the 
 work. The ladies among them were formally organized 
 as a Standing Committee, by the Pastoral Aid Society, on 
 the 5th of October. October 9th, the Sunday-school met 
 for the first time, with forty-eight scholars and eight 
 teachers. The two rooms were only twelve feet square, 
 and as no others were procurable, the need of a new 
 building was felt at once. The appeal for contributions 
 came at the very time when the church was just undertaking 
 the heavy responsibility of erecting a new edifice for its 
 own use, but it was felt that the mission work would be a 
 help and not a hindrance to the church, and the amount 
 asked for was cheerfully given. There was great need of 
 haste, for the rooms used, meantime, were too small to 
 
6o FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 allow the use of a stove, in the cold days of November ; 
 and on Saturday, December 9th, the new chapel was 
 dedicated. On the next day it was occupied by the 
 school. 
 
 At the Ninth Anniversary, in October, 1879, there were 
 18 teachers and 160 scholars on the roll. Of this number, 
 there were 36 scholars who had been present every Sabbath 
 during the year ; 9 of them having been present for two 
 years, and 1 1 for three years, without a single interruption. 
 Such evidences of faithfulness, and permanent interest in 
 the school, are steadily increasing from year to year. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Parish School. 
 
 This work was organized to meet a need which existed 
 for several years in the Pulaskiville district. It was so 
 crowded with children, that for a long time no room was 
 found for them in the public schools of the vicinity, and 
 they were growing up largely destitute of instruction. 
 From 1 87 1 until 1875, therefore, a daily Parish School 
 was held by the ladies of this Committee, in the Sunday- 
 school chapel at Pulaskiville. For most of this time it was 
 taught by Miss Dalzell, a member of one of our sister 
 churches, and one who showed herself uncommonly devoted 
 and efficient. 
 
 A sewing-school was also held on Friday afternoons, by 
 five of the ladies who were able to give personal attendance. 
 The roll of daily attendants at first contained the names 
 of 30 children, but the number was afterward more than 
 doubled. The teacher's salary, and other expenses, were 
 provided by distributing the amount among the twenty 
 members of the Committee, each of whom then secured 
 the requisite subscriptions by personal effort. Arrangements 
 were also made to have a sub-committee of two ladies act 
 as visiting-committee for the week, all the members taking 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 6 1 
 
 this charge in turn. The teaching was given in the true 
 spirit of the christian Home Missionary, and only a small 
 salary was accepted. After some three years Miss Dalzell 
 was obliged to resign the work from ill-health, to the great 
 regret of all connected with it. The place was not an easy 
 one to fill, and several changes were made during the fol- 
 lowing year. At the end of this time, as new_ public 
 schools had been erected, and the most pressing need of 
 this work no longer existed, it was discontinued. While 
 it was carried on, the usefulness of it was most manifest y 
 daily religious instruction was given, and the influence of 
 the Sunday-school was carried into every day in the week. 
 It may be well to add that a nominal charge of five 
 cents weekly, was made for each scholar, with good effects 
 upon children and parents. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Cottage Meetings. 
 
 In the spring and summer of 1S74, a kw ladies of the 
 Society found their way open to hold meetings on Thursday 
 afternoons at Pulaskiville, going from house to house in 
 turn. The good accomplished was unmistakable, but the 
 oppressive heat finally stopped the work for that season, 
 and the pressure of other duties prevented their being 
 resumed in the fall. Other meetings, however, with 
 similar aims, have supplied their place in good measure, 
 from time to time. The very brevity of this record 
 illustrates the elasticity of the Society's plan. Even the 
 smallest group of members can have its work recognized 
 and included within the regular operations of the Church, 
 so as to receive the sympathy and support of the whole 
 body, while there is the most entire freedom for individual 
 action. 
 
62 first presbyterian church 
 
 The Standing Committee on Somerville Sunday- 
 School 
 
 This School is connected with the Society in much the 
 same way as that at Pulaskiville. One of the ladies who 
 founded that school, had in 1874, removed to the eastern 
 part of Germantown, and found still further east, at the 
 Township line, and beyond it, a district composed of out- 
 lying settlements, several of which were quite distant from 
 any church whatever. A large part of the inhabitants 
 were losing any habits of church-going which they may 
 formerly have had, and the need of mission work was 
 palpable. The field was canvassed for scholars by this 
 lady, Mrs. Jonathan Graham, August 17, 1874, and 
 twenty-seven names were secured. The refusal of a new 
 Hall, which was to be erected in Somerville, had already 
 been secured by Mr. Graham for the Sunday-School, 
 should one be organized. Efforts were then made to 
 secure other helpers in the work, and on Sept. 8th, a 
 conference was held with Mr. Geo. Wiggan as to his 
 undertaking the superintendency. This gentleman was in 
 the immediate neighborhood, and had formerly been for 
 some time a pew-holder in our church, so that although 
 now a member of the Second Church, he was well known 
 among us, and none the less welcome because he repre- 
 sented the fraternal interest of that congregation in our 
 work. 
 
 On September 14th, a report of all this was made to our 
 Session, at its first meeting after the summer vacation, 
 with the information that action had been taken thus far, 
 on the assumption of Sessional approval : and application 
 was made to have their enterprise recognized as a work of 
 this church, under the formal charge of its Pastor and 
 Elders. This application would have been made earlier, but 
 for the absence of several members of Session from town 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 63 
 
 during the summer. As it was, the proposal received, of 
 course, the ready saiction which it sought; the new oppor- 
 tunity for work was thankfully welcomed, and by formal 
 vote of Session, was recognized as regularly under its care, 
 with the promise of all possible help from the congregation 
 at large. In the course of the following season, there was 
 a movement looking toward the establishment of a new 
 Presbyterian Church between Somerville and Germantown, 
 at the corner of Penn and Chew Streets, in which case it 
 was desired to have the Somerville Sunday-School removed 
 to that point. The proposed church was to be under 
 charge of the Sessional Union, representing the four 
 churches of Germantown, but so many difficulties were 
 encountered, that the enterprise was entirely abandoned. 
 The new Sunday-School has always remained, therefore, as 
 it began, a mission school of this church. So few of the 
 congregation resided within reach of the new field, that 
 some weeks were occupied in finding the requisite number 
 of teachers. Ou Oct. •25th, 1874, however, it was fully 
 organized and held its first service with 48 scholars and 9 
 scholars. During 1875, ^^^ school continued to use the 
 public Hall in which it had started, at the corner of 
 Stenton Avenue and Mill Street. In the Spring of 1S76, 
 the necessity for a new building led to the purchase of a 
 lot, and the beginning of the desired chapel. The 
 ladies of the Pastoral Aid Committee coutinued to render 
 efficient service in procuring the' requisite funds, and with 
 gratifying success. On June nth, 1876, the "Somerville 
 Chapel of the First Presbyterian Church " was dedicated, 
 free of debt. Its erection and furnishing cost $3,235.25, 
 and the sum of $432.64 in addition, was raised for the 
 Sunday-School and other services held during the year. 
 The Sunday-Schools of our three sister churches, gave $50 
 each toward the erection fund, and the residents in the 
 
64 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 vicinity of the School, ^504. At the last Anniversary- 
 held in October, 1879, there were on the roll, 25 teachers 
 and 278 scholars. The growth of the School is only 
 limited by the size of the building. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Presbyterian Home for 
 Widows'. 
 
 This is one of those committees, whose object is to serve 
 as a regular means of communication between the ladies of 
 this church, and any of the benevolent institutions in the 
 neighborhood which may have dealings with them. 
 
 The committee usually consists of those members of the 
 society who are, in some way, ofticially connected with the 
 institution. 
 
 In this particular case, it has been enabled to communi- 
 cate much desirable information to the church, and to 
 secure many subscriptions from our people, for this most 
 valuable Home. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Woman's Christian 
 Association. 
 
 Those managers of the association, who are also 
 members of this church, form a committee, with the 
 purpose above described. One of them served for some 
 years as President of the x\ssociation, and its work is one 
 of great interest to us all. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Hospitals. 
 
 There, are ladies in the Society who are officially con- 
 nected with the Presbyterian Hospital, and also with the 
 Germantown Hospital. They serve as the organ of com- 
 munication in all matters pertaining to Woman's work in 
 these directions. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 65 
 
 The Standing Committee on Systematic Visiting. 
 
 This is a branch of work within the congregation itself, 
 which really occasioned the formation of the Pastoral 
 Aid Society. The Pastor was very desirous of aid from 
 the ladies of the congregation, in keeping all of its families 
 constantly reminded of their relation to the church ; and 
 as other departments of usefulness were also to be opened, 
 there was danger of a multiplication of unconnected 
 societies, which might prove troublesome. Provision was 
 made, therefore, not merely for the desired visiting, but 
 also for combining this and the other new enterprises, with 
 the already-established forms of woman's work, in one 
 organization. 
 
 This particular committee is arranged as follows. The 
 whole parish is divided into districts of convenient size, of 
 which there were at first nine, and are now fifteen. 
 
 Each of these districts is assigned to a sub-committee of 
 two visitors, who are expected ordinarily to call upon every 
 church-family within its bounds, once in each quarter. 
 
 It is intended that the Visiting Committee shall thus 
 become intimately acquainted with church affairs in its 
 own district ; shall give notice to the Pastor at once of any 
 case of sickness, or other special call for his services, and 
 carry a welcome to new families which may arrive from 
 time to time. 
 
 Usually it is so arranged that the districts do not 
 number more than twelve to fifteen families each, but 
 the Pulaskiville and Somerville districts, need special 
 provision. In the latter case the Visiting Committee has 
 been enlarged by the addition of a company, of young 
 church-members, living within the district, who have 
 rendered most efficient service, calling upon the sick, upon 
 the new arrivals at the chapel, etc. Throughout the 
 congregation, several hundred calls are thus made every 
 
66 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 year, and though the results may not be immediately 
 evident in every case, yet they are well worth any effort 
 which they have cost. A tract is left at each visit, and 
 valuable religious help has been given and received during 
 these calls; but much is gained, even when, as in so many 
 cases, the conversation is simply that of informal neigh- 
 borly kindness. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Social Receptions. 
 
 At least twice each year the congregation is expected to 
 spend an evening together, purely for social intercourse. 
 These receptions are held in the early Summer, and in the 
 Fall ; that is to say, just before the people are scattered, 
 more or less, for the vacation season, and also when the 
 cool weather brings the season for renewing active work. 
 Whatever special occasions may offer, are also used in the 
 same way. The Sunday-school room, which is very large, 
 and was originally planned so as to serve this purpose when 
 desired, is the place of meeting. Sometimes there are 
 refreshments, sometimes not. There is never any elaborate 
 programme, for the one object is simply to introduce new 
 members to the older ones, and to enable each to take by 
 the hand as many others as possible. The Committee 
 consists of a few members of experience, who are aided by 
 the young ladies at large. Sub-committees are arranged 
 for decorating the rooms, for receiving the guests as they 
 enter, etc. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Furnishing the 
 Church Building. 
 
 This Committee was of sufficient importance, and existed 
 sufficiently long, to be added to the list of the Society, 
 though it was discontinued with the final accomplishment 
 of its work. Very efficient service was rendered, both in 
 
IN GEKMANTCWN. 67 
 
 securing the requisite amount of funds, and in supervising 
 the furnishing of the new church building in 1872. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Care of the 
 Church Building. 
 
 This is a Committee of experienced houskeepers, who 
 give to carpets and cushions, walls and floors, the benefit of 
 their supervision. They have rendered valuable assistance 
 in securing faithful work from various employes, and 
 especially in the various house-cleanings, of which all public 
 edifices are at times in need. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Flowers for 
 Church Services. 
 
 The object of this Committee, is to keep a list of those 
 persons in the congregation, who offer to send flowers for 
 the pulpit ; and to arrange with them the various details 
 of the matter, so that each may have his own turn, and 
 as many as possible be enlisted for contributing. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Ladies' 
 Prayer-Meetings. 
 
 Since the winter of 1873-74, a weekly prayer-meeting 
 has, with occasional interruptions, been continued by the 
 ladies of this Society. At first it was held at the church, 
 in the afternoon of the day on which the Mother's Meeting 
 Avas held, and just after that meeting. For two or three 
 years, meetings for the younger ladies were also held on 
 Sunday evening, before service, in the Ladies' room ; 
 these were often attended by thirty-five or forty persons, 
 and were full of spiritual interest. Those who were most 
 active in them were reluctantly obliged, however, to dis- 
 
68 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 continue them, because of inability to attend them in 
 addition to the fatiguing mission work and other services 
 of the day. This particular hour was sometimes the only 
 one in the day, which was available for quiet meditation 
 and prayer at home. The afternoon meeting was also 
 discontinued for one season, but was then resumed, with 
 more energy than before. This was in the Fall of 1877, 
 and both time and place were changed ; a morning hour 
 was chosen, and the meeting was in charge of the pastor's 
 wife, at her own home. The only change which has since 
 been made was that of the place, back again to the church, 
 to suit the convenience of some among the increasing 
 number of attendants. Very marked interest has been 
 manifested in these services of prayer and conference ; 
 those who have attended once, have usually tried to come 
 again. The good results are unmistakable, and it is hoped 
 that this gathering will remain not only a permanent, but 
 an increasingly prominent feature of our church life. 
 
 The Standing Committee on Sewing Circle. 
 
 It may appear strange that the old-fashioned Sewing 
 Circle should have so little prominence, among such a list 
 of organizations ; yet it only illustrates again, the fact that 
 every congregation has its own individuality, and that any 
 Society like this must be elastic enough to adapt itself to 
 that individuality, and even to its changes from one year 
 to another. In 1875-76, such meetings were held at the 
 various houses of the members, and in 1877-78, at the 
 Pastor's Study in the church. In each case the ladies met 
 at four o'clock, and had tea from six to seven; the 
 gentlemen, and those members who were unable to attend 
 earlier, coming in the evening. The Committee continues 
 its organization, and doubtless will nnd room for activity 
 again in future seasons. 
 
IN GERMAN TOWN. 69 
 
 The SxANDiNa Committee on Parish Library. 
 
 This Committee was formed in November, 1878, and 
 members of the congregation were invited to bring books 
 for the nucleus of a Library, at the Social Reception 
 held in that month. More than two hundred volumes are 
 on hand, and ready for use on Wednesday evenings after 
 the service, the books being kept in the room immediately 
 adjoining the Lecture Room. There can be little doubt 
 of the usefulness of such a Library, especially when it 
 reaches a more satisfactory size. 
 
 The Pastoral Aid Society 
 
 had collected and expended, through these various com- 
 mittees, at the time of its Ninth Annual Report, in April, 
 1879, the following amounts: 
 
 FOR EXTERNAL MISSION WORK. 
 
 Home Missions, $6, 122 66 
 
 Foreign Missions, 5, 000 58 
 
 $11,123 24 
 
 FOR NEIGHBORHOOD MISSION WORK. 
 
 Pulaskiville Sunday-school (Building and Work), $3, 710 70 
 Somerville Sunday-school (Building and Work), 5,152 18 
 
 Relief of the Poor, 2,943 55 
 
 Bible-reader's Work, 2,035 33 
 
 Dorcas Work, 561 21 
 
 Mother's Meetings, 234 57 
 
 Tracts, 67 04 
 
 Benevolent Institutions, 1,456 05 
 
 $16,160 63 
 
 FOR congregational PURPOSES. 
 
 Receptions, Church Furnishing, etc., $ 1,087 0° 
 
 Total, $28,370 87 
 
 The remaining part of our church work is largely of such 
 a nature, as to be carried on by the usual organizations, 
 
70 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 comprising both sexes ; such as the Sunday-Schools, the 
 choir (which is always composed of church members), etc. 
 
 Although there is no single society of the male members, 
 on such a scale as the Pastoral Aid Society, yet it of course 
 devolves upon them to act as officers of the schools, etc. ; 
 and all the church operations are supervised by those who 
 constitute the Session and Board of Tritstees. Besides 
 this, there have been organizations of Young Men for 
 various objects, e. g., for holding prayer meetings of 
 their own, on Sabbath evenings, as early as 1870; for 
 extending the hospitality of the church to visitors; for co- 
 operating with the Young Men's Christian Association of 
 Germantown ; and especially for conducting prayer meet- 
 ings, and otherwise carrying on gospel work at Pulaskiville. 
 Further reference to this will be made on another page. 
 For the last two years a Young Men's Society has existed, 
 whose object is primarily the holding of social meetings 
 each month, at which lectures, illustrated in various ways, 
 concerts, etc., are given. Even at the first of these 
 meetings there were fifty of our young men present, and 
 they have continued to be successful and beneficial. There 
 is in this the germ of much larger fruitfulness in the future. 
 
 The Sunday-School Work is one which has formed a 
 marked feature of our church life, almost from the very 
 beginning. As early as April 25th, 1819, a school was 
 formed, "for instructing the children to read, and learn 
 by heart, portions of scripture." It attracted children 
 from all parts of the village ; so that, although the 
 community was still distinctively German, there were as 
 many as 300 children present. The other churches, 
 however, soon made provision for their own children, so 
 that this school depended for support mainly upon the 
 families of the congregation itself. It is now closing its 
 sixty-first year, with fresh tokens of life and usefulness. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 71 
 
 The ordinary business of the school is carried on by 
 a "Sabbath-School Association," Avhich was formed for 
 the purpose many years ago. This is by no means an 
 independent or irresponsible body ; but one which main- 
 tains the closest relations with the Church Session. For 
 example, the preamble to its Constitution reads as fol- 
 lows : "We the undersigned, Sabbath-School officers and 
 teachers, having associated ourselves together in order 
 to accomplish more effectively the great work committed 
 to our charge, do adopt for our government the following 
 Constitution : the same, together with all proceedings 
 under it, being subject always to the approval of the church 
 Session." Then follow articles by which the Pastor is 
 recognized as ex-ofticio President of the Association : 
 teachers are appointed by the Superintendent, with the 
 approval of the Session, etc. The General Assembly, and 
 the Westminster Standards, declare explicitly the responsi- 
 bility, and therefore the authority of the Session, in 
 regard to all church work ; and this principle is recognized 
 practically by all our organizations. Experience has 
 shown that our loyalty to the standards on this point, has 
 always been of great service in securing not only harmony, 
 but efficiency. 
 
 In 1879, there were 420 names enrolled in connection 
 with the school ; so that its membership is not far from 
 that of the two Mission schools taken together. The 
 three schools are closely connected in various ways : and 
 a goodly proportion of our church membership may be 
 found in them as active workers. The interest of the 
 congregation at large, is manifested in subscriptions for 
 the various school expenses, and in the large attendance 
 upon any special occasions in the school life. The two 
 Mission School Anniversaries, which follow each other in 
 October, the three Christmas Festivals, which fill the 
 
^2 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 holiday week so pleasantly from year to year, and 
 especially the Anniversary of the Home School every 
 Spring, are never lacking in crowds of eagerly interested 
 attendants. At the Spring Anniversary, indeed, when all 
 three schools are present, the church building has for some 
 years been wholly unable to furnish even standing room, 
 for those who desire to be present. The children occupy 
 most of the seats, and the aisles are filled with visitors who 
 remain, though obliged to stand for hours, until the closing 
 exercises. The Sabbath-School choir have become, under 
 the faithful training of the School organist, and led by the 
 cornets, a most efficient help, not only on these public 
 occasions, but in the ordinary sessions from week to week. 
 Of course the real power of the School for the conversion 
 and training of its children, is found in faithful, personal 
 effort, under the guidance of the Great Teacher. 
 
 In the two chapels, Sabbath-School work is connected 
 various other forms of mission enterprise. At Pulaski- 
 ville, weekly prayer meetings have been held since 
 January, 1871; just after the chapel was erected. These 
 were at first in charge of the various elders, who served 
 in rotation: and were held on Tuesday evenings, but 
 afterward on Friday. In September, 1871, they were 
 given by the Session into the hands of Dr. Geo. H. 
 Burgin, who changed the time for holding them to 
 Sabbath evening. In this form, they were attended with 
 much success, until the sad interruption which was caused 
 by Dr. Burgin's sickness and death, in January, 1873. 
 The devotedness and efficiency of his work will not soon 
 be forgotten. 
 
 In the next month, February, 1873, the Rev. Mr. 
 Travis, who was at the time acting as Principal of the 
 Germantown Academy, and in attendance at this Church, 
 took up the work, and continued in charge of it until late 
 in the Fall, when other duties compelled him to. resign it. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 73 
 
 Early in January, 1874, some of the young men in the 
 Church began to hold regular meetings at a private house 
 near the chapel ; and iu the following summer, the people 
 of the neighborhood came together more largely than at 
 any previous time, in attendance upon such services. It 
 became necessary to return to the chapel in order to find 
 room enough; and since September, 1874, the meetings 
 have continued to be held there. 
 
 In January, 1876, Mr. William Johnson was called in, 
 with the hope that his attractive singing might bring 
 within reach of the gospel yet larger numbers. He was 
 present on four occasions, and during that season many 
 meetings were held by the young men, and by the other 
 members of the church in this neighborhood. The attend- 
 ance was sometimes more than one hundred and fifty at 
 these services, and for a long time afterAvard additional 
 meetings were held from house to house on Thursdays, with 
 an average attendance of about thirty. Many additions 
 were made to the church at the communion, three months 
 afterward, and the work resulted in much permanent good. 
 This meeting is still in charge of the young men of the 
 church, and continues to be a valuable feature of our 
 mission work. The chapel has also been used for Gospel 
 Temperance meetings and other services. The daily Parish 
 School, Sewing School, etc., held there for some years, 
 have already been described. This little building has 
 proved to be a spring of w^holesome influences in all the 
 neighborhood, and its work has re-acted in the most 
 beneficial manner upon the church itself. 
 
 The chapel which we erected for our Somerville Mission 
 School, has also been used for devotional services in the 
 evening. The difficulty of procuring enough lay helpers 
 for this purpose, in a place so remote from the main body 
 of the congregation, led to the suggestion that a fund be 
 
74 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 raised sufficient to provide salary for a minister, who might 
 take charge of the proposed services. This plan was 
 therefore brought before Session, by those of our people 
 who were especially interested in that field ; together with 
 the statement that the condition of affairs was still such, as 
 to manifestly preclude any thought of forming a new 
 organization there for years to come ; and that the success 
 of the work depended wholly upon its being recognized by 
 all our members as their own enterprise, under the direct 
 charge of their own Pastor and Session, and for which they 
 as a church had the entire responsibility. This was so 
 evidently the case, that even while the Session continued 
 to hope that this mission might ultimately become itself a 
 church, they concurred in the belief that for the present, 
 and indeed until the condition of the field should materially 
 alter in a way of which no signs had yet appeared, it must 
 be kept before this congregation as an integral part of our 
 own parish work. 
 
 The title of "Chapel Minister" has been given by the 
 General Assembly to those whom a Session may entrust 
 with such services, in a mission station under its care. 
 The first to occupy in this way the pulpit of our Somerville 
 Chapel was the Rev. Mr. Hofford, then of Doylestown, 
 Penna., who preached on Sabbath evenings for some three 
 months, his salary being provided by the church in the form 
 of private subscriptions. Other engagements, however, 
 prevented him from entering upon the work as fully 
 as he at first intended, and caused him to relinquish it. 
 In January, 1877, another Chapel Minister was therefore 
 engaged, viz. : the Rev. Mosely H. Williams. As the 
 work was no longer a mere experiment, regular annual 
 subscribers were now secured, so as to provide for the 
 minister's salary in this way as far as possible, and avoid 
 the necessity of special collections. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 75 
 
 The wish for a weekly prayer-meeting in the chapel was 
 now gratified, since the residence of Mr. Williams in the 
 part of Germantown toward Somerville enabled him to 
 inaugurate services of this kind. This was done at his 
 own suggestion, and is indicative of his cordial interest in 
 the work. Both meetings were well attended and successful. 
 In the Fall of 1878, it was believed that the way was open 
 for still further enlargement of the work, and application 
 was made, by the members connected with this part of our 
 church work, for arrangements whereby two services might 
 be held each Sabbath, and regular visiting be carried on 
 throughout the week. After some time had been spent in 
 considering this application, and ascertaining the condition 
 of the field itself, the session agreed to sanction it, and 
 provision was made for securing additional funds in order 
 to bring up the salary to the requisite amount. 
 
 The Rev. Mr. Williams was precluded by other engage- 
 ments from accepting the position in its enlarged form, 
 and after conference with several other brethren, an 
 agreement was finally made with the Rev. James W. Kirk, 
 who became our Chapel Minister, March 19th, 1879. 
 Good results from this enlargement of the work were 
 shown immediately, and this whole wing of the church 
 force is now equipped for excellent service. 
 
 Some of the other features of church life during the last 
 decade may be grouped together as follows. 
 
 In connection with our Sabbath worship it is to be noted 
 that the afternoon service was transferred to evening in the 
 Spring of 1870: this change, together with that of the 
 weekly prayer meeting from Friday to Wednesday, being 
 in the direction of harmony with the other churches in the 
 vicinity, and attended with good results. 
 
 The Sabbath morning service has been introduced by 
 the Doxology, since June, 1870; and it is especially note- 
 
76 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 worthy that since June, 1873, every service, during the 
 week, or on the Lord's Day, has been closed, not merely 
 with the Benediction, but with a pause for silent prayer. 
 Before pronouncing the Benediction, and also immediately 
 after it, the congregation stands in entire silence, long 
 enough to give opportunity for such prayer, and therefore 
 to secure a reverential conclusion to the worship of God. 
 This suggestion was accepted at once, when first proposed, 
 and has never needed to be renewed. 
 
 During the present pastorate, persons received into 
 communion upon profession of faith, have been given a 
 public welcome, before partaking of the Lord's Supper. 
 The form used for this purpose will be found at the close 
 of this book. It will be noticed that these persons are 
 presented to the congregation, not as candidates for 
 reception, but as already in full membership, and to be 
 welcomed as such. 
 
 The Week of Prayer has been observed, at the beginning 
 of each year ; and the following programme, with slight 
 verbal alterations, has been in use, almost from the com- 
 mencement of this pastorate : 
 
 Sabbath. The petition, " Thy Kingdom Come:" and, 
 in order to the fulfillment of this, prayer for the out- 
 pouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh. 
 
 Monday. Thanksgiving for that which God has done to 
 bring the world to Himself, and confession of our short- 
 coming as fellow-laborers with Him. 
 
 Tuesday. Prayer for the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit 
 upon THE Family, and its supj lementary agencies the 
 Sunday Schools, Colleges, etc., in all lands. 
 
 Wednesday. Prayer for the out-pouring of the Holy 
 Spirit upon the Nations, and for political and social 
 reform, temperance, etc. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 
 
 11 
 
 Thursday. For the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit upon 
 THE Church Universal, in its ministry and membership. 
 
 Friday. For the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit upon 
 THE Church in its Foreign Mission Work, and for the 
 conversion of the heathen. 
 
 Saturday. Prayer for the out-pouring of the Holy Spirit 
 upon THE Church in its Home Missions, and for the 
 conversion of souls in our own land, especially in the 
 locality where the prayer-meeting is held. 
 
 It was intended to secure for our Church, by the use of 
 this programme, certain advantages which were often 
 lacking in the schedule prepared by the Evangelical 
 Alliance, e. g. The same prominence is given to the 
 coming of the Holy Spirit, and to the Kingdom of Christ 
 in all the earth, which characterized the prayer-meetings 
 during the days before Pentecost. This was the model 
 after which the Week of Prayer was originally formed, in 
 the year i860: but in the course of time it was greatly 
 changed, even to the omitting, or the barely mentioning 
 of the Holy Spirit in some of the programmes. 
 
 Again : it was by Foreign Missionaries that this Week was 
 originated, and with the express object of securing 
 universal prayer for the world-wide interests of Christi- 
 anity: but we sometimes found the whole week passing 
 away with no distinct emphasis whatever upon Foreign 
 Missions. In our programme, the last two days are 
 assigned, the one to Foreign and the other to Home 
 Missions; and on all the other days, both the universal 
 and the local references are included. 
 
 Another advantage sought, was the more orderly 
 arrangement of topics for prayer. In the published 
 schedules, these were often unduly multiplied, and grouped 
 in the most incongruous manner; whereas they might all 
 
78 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 be classified with the Family, the Nation, or the Church, 
 the three Divine institutions for reaching men. 
 
 We were frequently urged, in view of such facts, to 
 disregard the usual programmes entirely, and confine the 
 week altogether to prayer for a local revival : but it seemed 
 better to act on the plan above indicated, in the expec- 
 tation that it would help and not hinder us, in seeking for 
 success in our own work. 
 
 We are confirmed in this judgment by the fact that 
 within the last two years this programme has been adopted, 
 substantially, in several different cities, by those to whom 
 it has been made known ; and also by the Synod of 
 Philadelphia. 
 
 There have been several seasons of marked religious 
 interest during this period. In 1870, it was to such a time 
 of special quickening, that the project of building a new 
 edifice owed its first impulse. The entrance into this 
 building in 1872, was followed by another experience of 
 the same kind. 
 
 In the Spring and Summer of 1874, there was a manifest 
 desire for special meetings, quite a number of which were 
 held, with large attendance and good results. Still later, 
 we shared in the benefits accruing to many of the neigh- 
 boring churches in the Winter and Spring of 1876, from 
 the prominence given to religious subjects by the public at 
 large, in connection with the Moody and Sankey meetings 
 in Philadelphia. Only one person, indeed, of the sixty 
 who were that year added to this, church by profession of 
 faith, traced his conversion directly to these meetings: but 
 they greatly aided in maintaining a religious atmosphere 
 favorable to such results. One marked feature during all 
 these periods, has been the increase of the spirit of united 
 prayer, as shown, not only in the enlarged attendance and 
 deeper interest of the congregational prayer-meeting, but 
 
IN GERMAXTOWN. - 79 
 
 in special meetings held among themselves by the young 
 men, and others by the young women and girls: the 
 Ladies' Prayer-Meeting described in connection with the 
 Pastoral Aid Society, is another instance of the same kind. 
 
 It is pleasant to note the fact, that two of our members 
 have been ordained within this period to the gospel 
 ministry: Revs. Alexander Henry and George Yeisley. 
 The former will be especially remembered, as born and 
 nurtured within the congregation. 
 
 The Session of the church has had several changes of 
 membership. In 1870 the elders were T. Charlton Henry, 
 Joseph W. Parks, and Enoch Taylor. In January, 187 1, 
 William Adamson and Thomas MacKellar were added ; in 
 December, 1874, Edward L. Wilson, and in December, 
 1876, Charles M. Lukens. Elders Parks and Adamson 
 afterward removed, the former to another part of the 
 country, and the latter to the Wakefield Church, in whof.e 
 session he remained until his death (in 1879). 
 
 The formation of the Sessional Union may be taken as 
 indicative of our fraternal relation toward the neighboring 
 churches. As early as October, 1870, this Session extended 
 an invitation to the others in Germantown, looking toward 
 such a Union : some unexpected difficulties were encoun- 
 tered at that time, but information of their removal was 
 received in June, 1872, and the invitation, being then 
 renewed, was at once accepted. All the active members 
 of every session in Germantown were enrolled, and a 
 permanent organization was formed ; its object being 
 "fraternal consultation and united action upon those 
 subjects in which our churches have a common interest." 
 The meetings of this Union have continued to be most 
 pleasant and profitable, both in the promotion of brotherly 
 feeling, and in efficient action upon various matters of 
 importance. 
 
80 ■ FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 One of its first fruits was the organization of the Wake- 
 field Presbyterian Church of Germantown. Early in the 
 year 1873 Elder Wm. Adamson informed his fellow-elders 
 in this church, that he had, for a long time felt the call to 
 secure a new Presbyterian Church in the lower part of the 
 town, where a large field existed, unoccupied by any congre- 
 gation, and becoming rapidly populated; and that he now 
 felt himself able to undertake this enterprise, in view of the 
 fact that our own people were fully settled in their new 
 edifice, and could afford to dismiss him. The Session at 
 once expressed hearty sympathy with him in this plan, and 
 although deeply regretting the separation from us which it 
 involved, pledged him its cordial support. The matter 
 was then laid before the Sessional Union : Mr. Adamson 
 offering to give a lot valued at ^9000 for the new church, 
 and agreeing to commence building at once, in case the 
 three congregations should subscribe as much as ^3000 in 
 all, toward the fund. Considerably more than this sum was 
 at once pledged. In a letter written by Mr. Adamson 
 some time afterward, he stated to us that $4107.65 had 
 been received from the three congregations, of which sum 
 $2013.95, or nearly one-half, had come from that of the 
 First Church. Upon the receipt of his letter, this Session 
 sent him an additional sum, bringing our total contribution 
 for the Building Fund up to $2100, which was the amount 
 we had expected to raise, although no promise to that 
 effect had ever been given. This action was taken " as an 
 expression of fraternal regard for Bro. Adamson, and with 
 hearty desire for the still more abundant success of the new 
 church." Toward this, our youngest sister-church, there 
 still exists the same cordial sympathy, which led us then to 
 open the way for the unobstructed departure of so cherished 
 an elder as Mr. Adamson, and of any other members who 
 inclined to follow his example. The subscriptions which 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 8 I 
 
 have lately been given by members of this congregation, 
 toward the proposed erection of another and larger edifice 
 for the Wakefield Church, are but further indications of the 
 same spirit. Toward the other two churches, the same dis- 
 position of warm fraternal regard has always been ready 
 to show itself. The visit paid to us by the Market Square 
 Church, during the work of repairing its own edifice in 
 September and October, 1872, is still most pleasurably 
 remembered. A similar invitation was afterward extended 
 to the Second Church under the same circumstances, and 
 with the same motive. 
 
 As would naturally be expected, the Young Men's 
 Christian Association of Germantown has received support 
 and aid from this church, since its first organization. It 
 traces its foundation chiefly to the christian zeal of Mr. 
 Adamson, Avho was at that time, and for some years 
 afterward, still in this church. He did not content himself 
 with the efficient work he was doing here, however, but 
 sought to influence the whole community for good. His 
 personal efforts, and the responsibility for its current 
 expenses, which he so long carried, were indispensable to 
 its success. In this he was sustained by the other members 
 of the church. The Board of Trustees put ^3000 into the 
 Young Men's Christian Association Stock, and others gave 
 enough to make a total contribution, amounting to one-half 
 of all the unconditional subscriptions received from every 
 source, when the building was occupied. The Association 
 held its public meetings in this church, until, through 
 Mr. Adamson's advancing a large part of the necessary 
 sum, it purchased our former edifice and remodeled it for 
 its own uses. 
 
 Toward all its sister churches of every denomination, 
 and toward all christian work, this church has ever been 
 glad to manifest the spirit of brotherly co-operation. For 
 
82 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 example, the Convention which carried on the Germantown 
 Local Option movement, held its meetings in our building, 
 and chose for its President one of our elders, Mr. Thomas 
 MacKellar; and other enterprises which require united 
 Christian support, appeal continually with confidence and 
 success to the sympathy of this people. 
 ■ There are, of course, other features in the church life 
 and work which might be mentioned, but enough has 
 been given to indicate its general character and tendency. 
 
 Such a review is the more appropriate at this particular 
 time, because the Pastor has felt himself led, in the 
 Providence of God, to take measures for resigning his 
 charge at the beginning of the new year (1880). The 
 collection and arrangement of the various facts which 
 are here included, has been to him a labor of love. It 
 is meant to be, on his part, a token of hearty appreciation 
 for the unceasing affection and cordiality, with which the 
 people of this beloved church have continually surrounded 
 him. 
 
 It is also hoped that each of the members, into whose 
 hands this little book may come, will accept it as a 
 personal appeal to himself, to enter into his own share 
 in the common work, with fresh zeal and consecration. 
 "Lift up your eyes and look on the fields, for they are 
 white already to harvest ; and he that reapeth receiveth 
 wages, and gathereth fruit, unto life eternal." 
 
FORMS OF WORSHIP. 
 
 l^s connected with the history of this Church, a copy is 
 
 herewith given, of the forms which have 
 
 been used in its public worship. "] 
 
84 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 The usual Order of Services on the Sabbath, has been as 
 follows : 
 
 Morning Worship. 
 
 Doxology. [Congregation rising.] 
 
 Brief Invocation. [Congregation still standing.] 
 
 Hymn. 
 
 Decalogue, or other Scripture Lesson. 
 
 [Anthem, if any.] 
 Notices. 
 
 [Collection, if any.] 
 Prayer. 
 Hymn. 
 Sermon. 
 Prayer. 
 
 Hymn. [Congregation rising.] 
 Benediction. [Preceded and followed by silent prayer.] 
 
 Evening Worship. 
 Anthem. 
 Scripture-lesson. 
 Hymn. 
 Prayer. 
 Hymn. 
 Sermon. 
 Prayer. 
 
 Hymn. [Congregation rising.] 
 Benediction [and silent prayer, as at every service.] 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 85 
 
 Baptism. — Baptism has usually been administered to 
 children, after the first hymn and before the Scripture- 
 lesson, at the Morning Service, as follows: 
 
 Reading of Mark x. 13-1 7. [Parents enter and are seated.] 
 Address [during which the parents arise.] 
 Prayer ; — Baptism ; — Prayer : 
 Hymn. 
 
 The Lord's Supper. — On Communion Day, the follow- 
 ing order has been observed : 
 
 Doxology. 
 
 Invocation. 
 
 Hymn. 
 
 Scripture-lesson. 
 
 Notices. 
 
 Collection for Poor Fund. 
 
 Announcement and Recognition of New Members. 
 
 Brief Address or Sermon. 
 
 Invitation to the Lord's Supper. 
 
 Hymn. 
 
 [At the Communion-table.] 
 Prayer. 
 
 Distribution of Bread [in silence.] 
 Prayer. 
 
 Distribution of Wine [in silence.] 
 Hymn. 
 Benediction [and silent prayer.] 
 
86 first presbyterian church 
 
 Public Recognition to Church Members. 
 
 [By the Presbyterian Constitution, the question of 
 admitting any person into church membership is entrusted 
 solely and entirely to the Session, which consists of the 
 Pastor and Ruling Elders. 
 
 It is by the act of the Session, and not by that of any 
 public assembly of the whole congregation, that admittance 
 is given. In the case of unbaptized persons, however, it is 
 required that after being thus accepted by the Session, 
 they shall repeat their confession of faith in Christ 
 publicly, and thereupon be baptized. In the case of those 
 who were "born within the pale of the visible Church," 
 and have been recognized as such by Baptism in childhood, 
 no public act is necessary in order to their entrance upon 
 full Communion, beyond a confession of their faith in 
 Christ, made in the presence of the Session. Nevertheless 
 it is allowable to give them the privilege of repeating this 
 confession before the whole church, and thus receiving its 
 public welcome and recognition. 
 
 It is to be remembered, therefore, that such persons do 
 not stand before the congregation as candidates, who are 
 then and there to be given admittance into church 
 membership : but that they are already in full membership, 
 and are to be welcomed as such. 
 
 And with regard to this confession itself, it is carefully 
 to be noted, that all which can be required of any person, 
 before admitting him into Communion, is that he trust and 
 obey Christ, and seek the peace and welfare of the Church. 
 In the words which have expressed the rule of our Church 
 on this matter since the year 1729: "We are willing 
 to admit to fellowship in sacred ordinances, all such as we 
 have ground to believe Christ will at last admit to the 
 kingdom of heaven." 
 
 There is a most important difference between the 
 requirement which is made upon private members, and 
 
IN Gl^RMANTOWN. 87 
 
 that which is made upon public ofificers. The Church as 
 an organization, does hold faithfully to the system of 
 doctrine which is contained in the Westminster Standards: 
 and before any person is given authority to represent the 
 Church by holding one of its public offices, he must be 
 able to declare that he in person does sincerely and 
 unfeignedly accept and believe that system as true. One 
 who undertakes to publicly teach in the name of the 
 Church, must of course be required to teach nothing 
 which is contrary to its creed. But private members are 
 considered to be learners, rather than teachers. All 
 which is asked concerning their religious opinions is, that 
 they be such as not to interfere with trusting and obeying 
 Christ, as their God and Saviour, or with seeking the 
 peace and welfare of the Church. 
 
 It is upon these cherished principles of our beloved 
 Church, which combine faithfulness to the truth, with the 
 utmost broadness of Christian liberality, that the following 
 service is formed.] 
 
 Form of Public Recognitio.v. 
 
 " The following announcement is made by the Session 
 of this church : 
 
 We have received by Certificate [A. from church of B.], 
 whom we commend to you, as henceforth your fellow- 
 members. 
 
 We have agreed thaj; [C. and D.] shall be admitted into 
 the church by Baptism, after publicly repeating the Con- 
 fession of Faith, which [they] made in our presence. 
 
 We have admitted to the Lord's Table [E. and F.], who, 
 being already baptized as children of the church, are now 
 advanced into its full communion, upon Confession of 
 Faith. This Confession will now be repeated before you, 
 in order that public recognition and welcome may be 
 given by the whole church. 
 
55 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 [ They ivill noiv arise .•] 
 
 Dearly Beloved : Remember the words of the Lord 
 Jesus, how He said, "Whosoever shall confess me before 
 men, him shall the Son of Man also confess, before the 
 angels of God." In the presence therefore of men, and 
 of angels, and of the heart-searching God, do you solemnly 
 confess and declare that you believe in the Lord Jesus 
 Christ, as your God and Saviour ? 
 
 Consider what it is to believe in Christ ; so that you 
 may the better hold fast the profession of your faith 
 without wavering. 
 
 The Lord Jesus hath graciously promised to give Him- 
 self, in all His saving power and love, unto every soul 
 which will accept Him. If we believe, or have faith, in 
 Him, we will thus accept Him ; we will entrust ourselves 
 unto Him to be saved \ and rely upon Him alone, for 
 everlasting life. Day by day, therefore, will we go unto 
 Him for every needful blessing, but especially for pardon, 
 and for strength against sin. Moreover, we will show our 
 faith in Him by endeavoring, in this Divine strength, to 
 follow and obey the Lord in all things. 
 
 Is it with this meaning and purpose, that you now make 
 confession of your faith ? 
 
 Furthermore; if you receive Christ as your Lord, you 
 will accept His people to be your people : entering into 
 covenant with us to seek the peace and welfare of His 
 Church, and faithfully to perform your part in its work 
 and worship, so far as Christ may enable you. 
 
 Is this also -your desire and purpose? 
 
 [In Case of Baptism.] 
 
 [The sign and seal of this covenant with the Lord, and 
 
 of membership in His Church, is to be given by the 
 
 administration of Baptism, whenever, as at this time, we 
 
 receive any person who is not already baptized. The 
 
IX GERMANTOWN. 89 
 
 water which is used signifies the cleansing power of 
 Christ's blood, applied by the Holy Ghost ; and the words 
 which are spoken, signify the bringing of the soul which is 
 thus cleansed, into the Baptism, or under the complete 
 influence, of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, which is life 
 everlasting. 
 
 This Ordinance will now be administered. 
 (Prayer ; — Baptism ; — Prayer.) ] 
 
 [77/(f 711 embers of this church linll now arise. '\ We 
 therefore, as members of this church, do give you hearty 
 welcome in the name of the Lord Jesus, to sit down 
 with us at His table. We accept your covenant with us, 
 and engage on our part to treat you in love, as members 
 of the Body of Christ ; aiding you on the journey toward 
 heaven, as God may give us opportunity. 
 
 It behooves us all to remember, that these covenant 
 obligations to Christ and to one another, are already 
 enjoined upon us by the Lord Himself, as our solemn duty, 
 from which we have no right to withhold our consent. 
 Let us therefore pray without ceasing, for that grace 
 through which alone we shall keep them faithfully. Let us 
 thank Him for permitting us to become fellow-laborers 
 with God, and with one another. And when our com- 
 munion of labor and of love with the church on earth is 
 dissolved, may God receive us all into fellowship with the 
 Church Triumphant in heaven, through Jesus Christ our 
 Lord, to whom be glory forever: Amen. 
 
 Blest be the tie that binds 
 
 Our hearts in Christian love; 
 The ft llowship of kindred minds 
 
 Is like to that above. 
 
 Before our Father's throne, 
 
 We pour our ardent prayers ; 
 Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one, 
 
 Our comforts and our cares. 
 
 [ To be sung as closing this part of the Service. '\ 
 
90 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 Invitation to the Lord's Supper. 
 
 And now, before we enter upon the Communion 
 Service, let us read that which is written concerning this 
 Holy Supper, in the First Epistle to the Corinthians, at 
 the eleventh chapter. 
 
 "For I have received of the Lord that which also I 
 delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus, the same night in 
 which He was betrayed, took bread: And when He had 
 given thanks. He brake it, and said, Take, eat : this is my 
 body which is broken for you : this do in remembrance of 
 me. After the same manner also He took the cup, when 
 He had supped, saying. This cup is the new covenant in 
 my blood : this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance 
 of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this 
 cup, ye do shew the Lord's death, till He come." 
 
 The Lord's Supper is the ordinance of Jesus Christ 
 Himself. Until He come again. His people are to eat this 
 bread and drink this cup in remembrance of Him. It is 
 therefore in obedience to the express commandment of our 
 Lord, that we come now to His table. 
 
 And I remind you, in the words of our Church, "that 
 it is of inestimable benefit, to strengthen Christ's people 
 against sin; to support them under troubles; to encourage 
 and quicken them in duty; to inspire them with love and 
 zeal ; to increase their faith and holy resolution ; and 
 to beget peace of conscience, and comfortable hopes 
 of eternal life." 
 
 I am also charged to give warning, that the profane, the 
 ignorant and scandalous, and those who are wilfully 
 purposed in their hearts to continue indulging themselves 
 in any known sin, are not to approach this holy table. 
 
 On the other hand, I am to invite unto it, those of you 
 who are sensible of your lost and helpless state by sin, and 
 who therefore depend upon the atonement of Christ for 
 
IN GIlRMAXTOWN. 91 
 
 pardon and acceptance with God : who are sufficiently 
 instructed in Gospel truth to understand the meaning and 
 use of this ordinance, and who desire to renounce their 
 sins, being determined by Christ's grace to lead a holy 
 life, in love toward God, with peace and charity toward 
 men; "forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's 
 sake hath forgiven you." 
 
 I therefore, cordially invite all such as are here described, 
 and especially, if they are strangers and visitors from other 
 churches, to partake with us. It is the table of the Lord, 
 and not ours ; whomsoever the Spirit of the Lord invites, 
 let not man hinder from coming. 
 
 Neither let us be discouraged because of the sins and 
 imperfections which yet remain within us, even against our 
 wills, but remember His own most gracious word, 
 
 " Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, 
 and I will give you rest." 
 
 "They that are whole need not a physician, but they 
 that are sick ; I came, not to call the righteous, but 
 sinners to repentance." 
 
 "Behold, I stand at the cloor and knock; if any man 
 hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to him, 
 and sup with him, and he with me." 
 
 Words used in the Lord's Supper. 
 
 Dearly Beloved : The Lord Jesus began this holy supper 
 with prayer and thanksgiving ; after His example, there- 
 fore, let us pray. \^Ff-ayer.'] 
 
 And now let us obey the Lord Jesus, who, the same 
 night in which He was betrayed, took bread, and when He 
 had given thanks. He brake it, and said : " Take, eat, this 
 is my body, which is broken for you : this do in remem- 
 brance of me." \_Distnlmiion of Bread. '\ 
 
 It is written that, "after the same manner also," He 
 
92 
 
 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 took the cup ; that is, after He had again looked up to 
 God in prayer and thanksgiving. According to His 
 example let us again unite in prayer. IJ^rayer.^ 
 
 As it is written, then, " He took the cup, and when He 
 had given thanks, He gave it unto them, saying, This cup 
 is the new covenant in my blood ; this do ye, as oft as ye 
 drink it, in remembrance of me." \_Distribution of W//ie.] 
 
 And finally, it is written, that "when they had sung an 
 hymn, they went out;" let us also, therefore, close our 
 communion service with a hymn. 
 
 Form for Baptism of Infants. 
 
 [Doxology. Invocation. Hymn. Read Mark x: 13-16.] 
 Opportunity is now to be given for the Baptism of 
 Children. 
 
 We administer unto them this ordinance, because we 
 accept it as the will of Christ, that children of believers 
 are still to be recognized as children of the Church, even 
 as they were under the Old Testament ; and that Baptism 
 is the form appointed by Him for this purpose. The water 
 which is used, signifies the cleansing power of Christ's 
 blood, applied by the Holy Ghost; and the words which 
 are spoken, signify the bringing of the soul which is thus 
 cleansed, into the Baptism, or under the complete 
 influence, of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, which is life 
 everlasting. This outward sign is given by the Lord Jesus 
 Christ, as the token and seal of a covenant between Himself 
 and the believing parents; a covenant whereby He doth 
 engage to provide, and they to use, His Divine grace and 
 guidance for themselves and their children ; so that, if 
 they do not receive these everlasting blessings of His 
 kingdom, it will be from no lack of faithfulness on His 
 part. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 93 
 
 The parents, who desire thus to present their children 
 for Baptism, will show the same by rising. 
 
 Beloved in the Lord ; consider what is your part in that 
 solemn covenant with God, Avhich you are now to seal. 
 
 It implies that you confess the need of a Divine 
 cleansing for us all, seeing we are by nature sinful, guilty 
 and polluted : that you look for this cleansing unto the 
 Lord Jesus Christ, and accept Him to be Saviour and 
 King unto yourselves and your children ; that you engage 
 to teach them His will, as it is written in the Holy 
 Scriptures ; [and for a summary of this, we recommend to 
 you the Catechism of the Church ;] that you will pray 
 with them, and for them; setting them an example of piety 
 and godliness, and endeavoring by all the means of God's 
 appointment, to bring them up in the nurture and. 
 admonition of the L^rd. 
 
 Is it your desire now to seal this covenant, and to keep 
 it faithfully hereafter by God's grace? 
 
 [Prayer: Baptism: Prayer: Hymn.] 
 
 Marriage Formula. 
 
 God be merciful unto us, and bless us, and cause His 
 face to shine upon us. 
 
 Dearly Beloved : Let us have the comfortable assurance 
 that the Lord our God is willing, most graciously to have 
 regard unto those who come before Him to be united in 
 marriage. For it was by God our Creator, that this holy 
 estate of matrimony was established, when Himself united 
 in marriage our first parents, in all the purity and inno- 
 cence of the garden of Eden. It was confirmed by the 
 gracious presence and miraculous blessing of God our 
 Saviour at the wedding in Cana. And God the Holy 
 Ghost hath declared it honorable in all, and made it a 
 symbol of the union between Christ and His Church. 
 
94 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 Wherefore since marriage is in itself a holy thing, and 
 well pleasing in the sight of God the Father, Son, and 
 Holy Ghost, you ought with all confidence and strong 
 desire to look unto Him for His sanction and blessing. 
 Let us Pray. 
 
 Most gracious God our heavenly Father, we beseech 
 Thee for these, Thy son and daughter, that they may, 
 with reverent trust in Thee, enter into this covenant of 
 marriage. Look upon them with Thy favor and blessing : 
 and do Thou bear witness to their vows, which are made 
 not only to each other but to Thee. Grant this, oh 
 Father, with the forgiveness of our sins, through Jesus 
 Christ, Thy Son. Amen. 
 
 In further token of your desire and purpose, let each of 
 you now take the other by the right hand. 
 
 [To the Afa/f.'] 
 
 Do you, [A.] take her whom you now hold by the 
 
 hand, before God and these witnesses, to be your wife? 
 
 Do you promise to love her, honor her, defend her, sustain 
 
 and cherish, her in joy and in sorrow, in health and in 
 
 sickness, in prosperity and in adversity; to be faithful to 
 
 her in all things, as becometh a good husband, and never 
 
 forsake her, so long as you both do live ? 
 
 [I do.] 
 
 [71? //le Wo7nan.\ 
 
 Do you, [B.] take him whom you now hold by the 
 hand, before God and these witnesses, to be your husband? 
 Do you promise to love him, honor him, cherish and obey 
 him, in joy and in sorrow, in health and in sickness, in 
 prosperity and in adversity ; to be faithful to him in all 
 things, as becometh a good wife, and never forsake him so 
 long as you both do live? 
 
 [I do.] 
 
IX GERMANTOWN. 95 
 
 \_/ii case a Ring is to be used. ] 
 
 You have signified your desire to use a Ring, as the 
 visible sign and seal of your marriage. Do you therefore 
 now give this Ring in token that you will truly perform 
 these your vows ? 
 
 Do you receive this Ring in token of the same on your 
 part ? 
 [I do.] 
 Let each again take the other by the right hand.] 
 
 Now, therefore, in the name of the Father, Son, and 
 Holy Ghost, I pronounce you husband and wife. 
 
 What God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 
 
 Let us Pray. 
 
 O God, our heavenly Father, grant unto these Thy 
 children grace, that they may faithfully keep this vow and 
 covenant which they have now made, and steadfastly abide 
 in holy love, to each other and to Thee. Shine upon 
 them with the fulness of Thy Divine love. And above 
 all, as Thou hast made these twain to become one flesh, 
 grant them also that one Spirit, by Whose grace they may 
 each be united unto Christ, Thy Son ; that this union one 
 to another, may be in the Lord, and may cause them the 
 better to serve Thee and rejoice in Thee, not only in 
 this world, but in that which is to come, through Jesus 
 Christ, Thy Son. Amen. 
 
 The Lord bless you and keep you ; the Lord make His 
 face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you ; the 
 Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you 
 peace ! 
 
CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAVS 
 
 PASTORAL AID SOCIETY. 
 
CONSTITUTION, 
 
 I. — Name. 
 
 This Association shall be known as the Pastoral Aid 
 Society of the First Presbyterian Church in Germantovvn. 
 
 II. — Objects. 
 
 Its general object shall be, to organize the ladies of the 
 congregation for Christian usefulness. 
 
 Its specific objects and i:)lans shall be determined, from 
 time to time, by agreement between the Society and the 
 Session. 
 
 III. — Membership. 
 
 Any lady connected with the Church or congregation 
 may become a member of this Society, on signing its 
 constitution ; by which act it is understood that she 
 pledges herself to observg its regulations, and to aid in its 
 active work, unless prevented by higher duties. 
 
 IV. — Organization. 
 
 1. The officers of the Society shall consist of a President, 
 Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. 
 
 2. The work of the Society shall be performed by means 
 of Standing Committees, each having charge of its own 
 specific object. 
 
 3. There shall be an Executive Committee, consisting 
 of the President and Secretary, with three other members. 
 It shall have general supervision of the Society's work, 
 and shall agree with the Session upon the above-named 
 
lOO FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 "specific objects" of efifort. It shall have power to call 
 special meetings of the Society, to transfer members from 
 one Standing Committee to another, and to form new 
 Standing Committees, at the desire or with the consent of 
 the members immediately interested. It shall itself have 
 membership ex officio in every Standing Committee, and in 
 all its proceedings shall be subject to correction by a vote 
 of the Society. 
 
 V. — Meetings. 
 
 1. The Society shall hold a regular meeting Avithin the 
 first week of April, June, October, December and February. 
 
 2. At the April meeting, the Secretary and Treasurer 
 shall present their annual reports ; and there shall be held 
 an election of Officers and Executive Committee for the 
 ensuing year. 
 
 3. Ten members shall constitute a quonun for the trans- 
 action of business at any meeting. 
 
 4. After each regular meeting, the Secretary shall cause 
 the minute-book to be laid before the Church Session. 
 
 VI. — Amendments. 
 
 Amendments to this constitution may be proposed at any 
 regular meeting, but the vote thereon shall not be taken 
 until the ensuing regular meeting, and the consent of two- 
 thirds of those present shall be required for their adoption. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. ' IQI 
 
 BY-LAWS, 
 
 I. — Standing Committees and Their Duties. 
 The Standing Committees shall be as follows : 
 
 MISSIONARY WORK. 
 
 1. On Domestic Missions: to continue the work of the 
 Domestic Missionary Society founded in 1852. (See 
 Appendix to By-Laws, i.) 
 
 2. On Foreign Missions: to aid in Woman's Work for 
 Woman. 
 
 NEIGHBORHOOD WORK. 
 
 1. On Bible-reader's Work: to continue the work of 
 the Bible-reader's Association founded in 1868. (See 
 Appendix 2.) 
 
 2. On Mothers' Meeting: to conduct meetings of women 
 for sewing and reading, with religious exercises. 
 
 3. On Dorcas Work : to meet weekly and sew, for the 
 purpose of supplying destitute Sunday-sehool children and 
 others with clothing. 
 
 4. On Relief of the Poor: to distribute the poor fund of 
 the Church, making annual report thereof directly to the 
 Session. 
 
 5. On Tracts: to procure tracts and other religious 
 reading, for distribution by the Visiting Committees and 
 the Bible- reader. 
 
 6. On Pulaski Sunday-school Work : to care for the 
 interests of the Pulaski Sunday-school, originated through 
 this Society. 
 
I02 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 7. On Somerville Sunday-school Work: to care for the 
 interests of the Somerville Sunday-school. 
 
 8. On Presbyterian Home : to aid the Presbyterian 
 Home for Widows and Single Women, at West Philadelphia. 
 
 9. On Hospitals : to aid the Presbyterian and the Ger- 
 man town Hospitals. 
 
 WORK WITHIN THE CONGREGATION. 
 
 1. On Systematic Visiting: to visit regularly all the 
 families of the church and congregation. 
 
 2. On Social Receptions : to take charge of social 
 meetings at the church. 
 
 3. On Providing Flowers for Church Services. 
 
 4. On Care of Church Building : to oversee the work of 
 keeping it in order. 
 
 5. On Ladies' Prayer Meetings: to hold devotional 
 meetings for the ladies of the congregation. 
 
 6. On Parish Library. 
 
 IL — Order of Exercises. 
 
 The following order of exercises shall be observed at the 
 regular meetings, viz. : 
 
 1. Reading of Scripture. 
 
 2. Silent Prayer. 
 
 3. Prayer and remarks by the Pastor, if present. 
 
 4. Reading minutes. 
 
 5. Reports from the Standing Committees in their order. 
 
 6. Unfinished business. 
 
 7. New business. 
 
 8. Adjournment. 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 
 
 103 
 
 At the annual meeting the following order shall be 
 observed, after reading the minutes, and before taking up 
 unfinished business: 
 
 1. Treasurer's annual report. 
 
 2. Appointment of Committee to nominate officers for 
 the ensuing year. 
 
 3. Secretary's annual report. 
 
 4. Election of officers. 
 
 III. — Fines for Absence. 
 
 Every member absent from a regular meeting, shall be 
 fined ten cents, unless excused by the Executive Committee. 
 
 IV. — Amendments. 
 
 These By-laws may be amended, by consent of two-thirds 
 of the members present at any meeting. 
 
 Appendix Added to By-Laws in 1870. 
 
 1. The Domestic Missionary Society was founded in 
 1852, for sending relief to needy missionaries under the 
 care of the Presbyterian Board of Domestic Missions. 
 During eight years, (1862 to 1870), it sent out nineteen 
 boxes, valued at $4,500. The aggregate of its contribution 
 to the cause, up to 1870, was not far from $10,000. In 
 order to promote the efficiency of church work, it con- 
 nected itself with the Pastoral Aid Society, May 4, 1870, 
 taking the name and duties of Standing Committee on 
 Domestic Missions. 
 
 2. The Bible-reader's Association was formed in 1868, 
 for the purpose of carrying the gospel message to those who 
 
I04 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
 
 are strangers to the sanctuary and its teachings, and also 
 relief to pressing temporal wants. For this purpose a 
 visitor is employed, and supplied with German and English 
 tracts, and with funds for distribution. A Mothers' 
 Meeting has been established in connection with it. One 
 thousand dollars were received into its treasury up to May 
 4, 1870 ; at which date, in order to promote the efficiency 
 of Church work, it connected itself with the Pastoral Aid 
 Society, taking the name and duties of Standing Com- 
 mittee on Bible-reader's work. 
 
 [In order to present these methods of work in their true 
 light, it may be well to mention that the above plan was 
 formed as one part of a larger scheme, including the whole 
 congregation. Most of the elements for organizing such a 
 scheme have come into existence within the church, but 
 it has always seemed best to act gradually, taking each step 
 as the way for it was opened by the Providence of God, 
 and therefore the final combination of these elements has 
 not yet been made. 
 
 The idea was that of a Church League for Christian 
 work, of which the Pastoral Aid Society would form the 
 Ladies' Auxiliary, and a similar organization the Young 
 Men's Auxiliary. The whole League would have for 
 President, the Pastor: for Executive Committee, the 
 Session ; and for Financial Committee, the Board of 
 Trustees. It would have a Sunday-school Section, another 
 for Mission Schools, and one for each of the further objects 
 which might be undertaken. 
 
 Any work which is best done by Young Men, or by 
 Ladies, would be given to the proper Auxiliary : and that 
 which requires the combined effort of both, to the League 
 itself. 
 
 It would thus include all the active members of the 
 church, and could very properly expect to have its various 
 
IN GERMANTOWN. 
 
 105 
 
 operations made the subject of prayer, exhortation, and 
 discussion, at the second prayer meeting in each month : 
 the first being given to Foreign Missions. 
 
 The existence of such a plan, even as an ideal not yet 
 fully accomplished, has had its influence on the develop- 
 ment of Church life, and is therefore mentioned in this 
 place.] 
 
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