•P THE UNIYElidrTY DOCUMENTARY HISTORY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN MINISTERIUM PENNSYLVANIA AND ADJACENT STATES. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ANNUAL CONVENTIONS FROM 1748 TO 1831. COMPILED AJfTD TRANSLATED FROM RECORDS IN THE ARCHIVES AND FROM THE WRITTEN PROTOCOLS. BOARD OF PUBLICATION OF THE (0BiiBrnl €unn[ nf tjiB (fBnaugBlital jCutjiBraE Cjiurrli IN NORTH AMERICA. PHILADELPHIA: 1898. Copyright, 1898, BY BOARD OF PUBLICATION OF im General Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in north america. I3X ^OGI I 21? PREFACE. At the one hundred and forty-sixth Convention of the Ministerium of Pennsylvania and adjacent States, held in Philadelphia, 1893, the President in his official report suggested that steps should he taken to secure an accurate and reliable history of the Ministerium, so as to have it ready for its one hundred and fiftieth anniversary in the year 1898. The Ministerium agreed with this recommendation, and appointed its officers and the Faculty of the Theological Seminary a Committee, to lay before the next annual convention a plan by which this desirable object may be attained. This committee recommended the publication of a volume containing the Minutes of the Ministerium for the first hundred years of its history, together with such historical matter as is now contained in the archives and other sources of information. The Ministerium, after some discussion, referred the report back to the Committee with full power to act. An editorial Com- mittee was appointed, consisting of Professors A. Spaeth, H. E. Jacobs and G. F. Spieker, and all questions concerning the contents and preparation of this memorial volume were referred to it. Under the supervision of this Committee the work of collecting and preparing the material for the Memorial Volume, was done by Mr. W. A. Lambert, a student in our Theological Seminary, of the class graduating in 1898. He was assisted by Mr. F. E. Cooper who translated the Protocol of the Conventions of 1814 to 1820. The arduous work of preparing the very full and comprehensive indexes was done by Mr. Charles M. Jacobs. For the translation of the Constitution in force in 1781, we are indebted to the Rev. J. W. Early, who published it in the Lutheran Church Revievj for July, 1890. The Editorial Committee had intended to supplement the record of the Conventions of the Ministerium by the addition of valuable documentary matter from the Archives, and also an alphabetical list of the contents of our Archives. But as the work progressed it was found that the simple iii M697318 iv PREFACE. record of the transactions of the Ministerium from 1748 to 1821, the year with which the first volume of the written Protocol closes, would fill a volume of about 550 pages. And beyond this limit the Committee was not willing to go for the present. But it is hoped that the Ministerium will provide for the continuation of this work, so that those who are interested in the history of the Mother Synod may be furnished with the most important documents from the rich treasures of our Archives, so admirably arranged and preserved through the eflforta of our late Archivarius, Dr. W. J. Mann. A full account of the sources from which the material of this volume is drawn will be found on page 1 sq. AVith the exception of the Hallesche Nachrichten it is all Manuscript matter, viz., the diaries and correspondence of our venerable Fathers, the Halle Documents (Halle Doc.) transcribed at the request and expense of our Ministerium through Dr. Germann from the Halle Archives, and the written Protocol which begins with the year 1781. The volume presents a full and exact reproduction in the English language of the material contained in these sources without any abridg- ment or changes. Even the spelling of names and localities is retained as found in the original documents. The explanations and corrections of the Committee are inserted in brackets or in foot-notes. By adhering strictly to this principle of scrupulous reproduction, the Committee honed to secure for this volume the character of an exact and reliable documentary chronicle. A. Spaeth, H. E. Jacobs, G. F. Spieker Mount Airy, Philadelphia, May 10(h, 1808. PART I. 1748-1780. COITVEJ^TIOIS'S. I. Philadelphia, 1748 3 II. Laiicastt-r, 1749 24 in. I»rovidence, 1750 'J7 IV. Philadelphia. 1751 33 V. CJermantown, 1752 86 VI. Tulpehocken, 1753 41 VII. New Hanover, 1754 41 Vlll-Xn 17.55-9 . . 43 XIII. Providence, 17G0 44 XIV. Lancaster. 1761 58 XV. PhUadelphia, 1762 59 X^T Philadelphia, 1763 68 XVII, XVIII 1704-5 . 83 XIX. Philadelphia, 1766 84 PAGE XX 1767 .... 85 XXI. New Hanover, 1768 86 XXII. Philadelphia, 1769 104 XXm. Reading, 1770 121 XXIV. Philadelphia, 1771 128 XXV. Lancaster, 1772 129 XXVI. Philadelphia, 1773 139 XXVII. Lancaster, 1774 148 xx^^^ 1775 .... 149 XXIX. York, 1776 150 XXX. Philadelphia, 1777 151 XXXI. New Hanover, 1778 IM XXXn. Tulpehocken, 1779 166 XXXIII. Providence, 1780 158 SOURCES. (See also list in Eallescke Nachrichten, n. e. I. 264, whicli is here revised and enlarged.) 1748. Hali-ksche Nachrichten, o. e. 76-79, 110-111, 284-288, 676 ; n. e. 208-211 (Protocol) ; Schaum Correspondence, Kurtz's Diary, MS. 1749. Hallesche Nachrichten, o. e. 329, 330, 404-406, with additions in n. e. 679 ; o. e. 78, 386, 676. 1750. Halleschb Nachrichten, o. e. 352-354, with additions ; n. e. 588, etc; n. e. 471-473 (Protocol) ; o. e. 122, 123 ; 516 f., 676. 1751. Hallesche Nachrichten, o. e. 436, 534, n. e. 688-689 ; o. e. 435, 438, 458, 511, 625, 676. For Conference Dec. 17, 1751, H. N., o. e. 511-512, cf. 625 ; n. e. 263. 1752. Hallesche Nachrichten, o. e. 568 ff. ; n. e. 689. Halle Doc. I. 485. H. N., o. e. 636, 655, 676. 1753. Hallesche Nachrichten, o. e. 676. Halle Doc. I. 500, 540. 1754. Hallesche Nachrichten, o. e. 676, 662 f., 661 ff. Halle Doc. I. 500, 499, 483. H. N. o. e. 646, 647, 688. 1755-59. Hallesche Nachrichten, 851. 1760. MiJHLENBERG, LETTER TO Gerock, MS. Hallesche Nachrichten, 854- 862. Halle Doc. 1216-1217, MS. ; H. N., 863, 948. 1761. Hallesche Nachrichten, 865. Miihlenberg Diary, May, 1761, MS. H. N., 948. Mann, Life and Times of Miihlenberg, 385. Miihlen- berg's Defence against Eaus, MS., Lancaster Memorial Vol., 19, 20. 1762. Hallesche Nachrichten, 916-920 and MS., H. N., 954-961, Halle Doc. II. 1245. Miihlenberg Diary MS. H. N., 909, 1104. 1763. Hallesche Nachrichten, 1122-1131, MS. Halle Doc. IL 1575-91. H. N., 1119. 1764. Hallesche Nachrichten, 1161-62. 1765. 1766. MS. MiTHLENBERG DiARY, 1242, 1246. 1767. 1768. MS. MiJHLENBERG Diary. Halle Doc. IIL 2211-49. 1769. MS. MiJHLENBERG Diary. Vorbericht zur 12 Fortsetz. § 2 (n. e. II. p. 265), 1245-48. Halle Doc. 2341 sqq. H. N., 1283. 1770. Nova Acta Historica Ecclesiastica, XII. 337-351. Halle Doc. III. 2445-56. 1771. Hallesche Nachrichten, 1338 f. Nova Acta XH. 357. 1772. MiJHLENBERG DiARY, MS. 1773. MiJHLENBERG DiARY, MS. 1 1 2 SOURCES. 1774. MUHLENBERO DiARY, MS. 1775. MUHLENBERO DlARY, MS. 177G. MuHi>E.vBERG Diary, MS. , Ilallesche Nachrichten, 1413. 1777. MiJHLE.vBERO Diary, MS. 1415. 1778. Muhlenberg Diary, MS. ; Letter to Freylinghausen, Oct. 31, 1778, MS. Letter : Nic Kurtz to Kunze, Sept 17, 1779, MS. ; Ilallesche Nach- richten, 1412 ff. 1779. Letter of Nic. Kurtz to Kunze, Sept. 17, 1779, MS.; Muhlenberg Diary, MS.; Hallesche Nachrichten, 1420; Lane. Memor. vol. 02. 1780. MiJULEXBEBG DlA-RY, MS. \ FIRST CONVENTION. 1748. TENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY (August 15, O. S.; August 20, N. S., 1748, Philadelphia). [Hallesche Nachrichten, n. e. pp. 150, 151 ; o. e. 76, 77.] In order that aid might be given to several congregations, even if only one preacher could be sent, it has been thought advisable to ordain to the ministry Mr. Kurtz and Mr. Schaum, who until now have been assistants, since they have been very faithful in the matters entrusted to them in the congregations, and have gained not only more and more experience and ability for the ministry, but have also won the love and confidence of the congregations. For this purpose, as well as for the closer union of the preachers and of the United Congregations, and for mutual consultation and agreement in matters concerning all the congre- gations, a meeting of the preachers, elders and deacons of all the frequently mentioned congregations was arranged to be held in Phila- delphia, August 15 [O. S.], 26 [N. S.], 1748. The United Congregations were at first only the three congregationa at Philadelphia, New Hanover and Providence, which together first applied to the court preacher Ziegenhagen, in London, and to Prof. Dr. Francke, in Halle, requesting them to choose and call for them several able preachers. When the first preacher, Mr. Muhlenberg arrived in Pennsylvania, the fourth congregation at Germantown united with them, and later Tulpehocken and Lancaster, with Nordkiel and Earlingstown as filials of the latter two ; so also two small congre- gations at Upper Milford and Saccum joined the two in Providence and New Hanover as filials. The delegated elders and deacons of all these congregations, together with the preachers, appeared at this meeting, which was further attended in friendly confidence by the Swedish Provost, Mr. Sandin, and a preacher called and sent by the Honorable Ministerium at Hamburg upon the request of a congrega- tion in Jersey, Mr. Hartwig, they having been duly invited. This 3 4 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY. more definite union had long been desired and requested by the con- gregations, and had, in fact, been attempted by a meeting held five years before ; but the meeting was broken up by the opposition of the preacher, Nyberg/ and was without results. But at this meeting everything passed off peaceably, and all the congregations mutually obligated themselves to hold together as one congregation, and for this purpose to assemble once each year. II. [Letter of Pastor Handschuh, of Lancaster, to the congregation at York.] To our beloved brethren in the faith, the deacons and elders and members of the EvangeUcal Lutheran congregation at York : The Gracious Hand of our God, with respect to our brethren in the faith, has led to the necessity of ordaining Mr. Kurtz as a pastor, consecrating with proper solemnities the church at Philadelphia, and holding in connection with it a general Church convention. The time appointed is the approaching Tenth Sunday after Trinity, and the succeeding Monday, and probably Tuesday. To these peaceful and public solemnities we have been compelled to issue, in haste, the invita- tions to the church councils, deacons and elders of each of the con- gregations connected with us. We ask you, therefore, to be so kind as to appoint one of your deacons, and, if possible, our dear brother, Mr. Eichelberger, and to send him, at your expense, to Philadelphia. Since also Mr. Billmeier, our worthy brother in the Lord, desires, within the next three weeks to make a trip to Philadelpliia, it will do no harm if he also attend the meeting. Kindly invite him, therefore, to arrange to accompany Mr. Eichelberger, so as to be in Philadelphia by next Saturday evening. If, however, his business prevent, and your circum- stances so permit, you might defray either all or the half of his travel- ing expenses. Confer as to what can be done, Avithout any great loss on your part. Leave your preacher, our beloved Brother Schaum,^ at home, since he must preach next Sunday in Connawaka, and cannot travel so fur, and my dear brother in the ministry is, for other reasons, in some uncertainty. I will expect, therefore, to meet one of your deacons, and if possible, Mr. Billmeier, next Saturday evening in Philadelphia. The Lora bless you all. May He prosper every effort for the glory of His ' For account of this conference in May, 1744, see Acrelius' Hiatoi-y of New Sweden (P^nglish Translation), pp. 242-254. * Mr. Schaum's position was that of a supply. Up to preceding May, he was school teacher in Philadelpliia, and had been sent to York on trial, H. N., new ed., p. 385. He was not ordained until 1749, lb. p. 151. FIEST CONVENTION, 1748. 6 Name, and the extension of His Evangelical Lutheran Church, and according to His mercy, give your delegates, and brethren, a safe and pleasant journey ! Mr. Brunnholtz would have invited you with his own hand, but he thought the invitation would be too late. I have thought I would see if it were still feasible, because of the especial love I have for you, my dear brethren in the faith. I remain as ever, your faithful brother and minister of our Lord Jesus Christ. John Frederick Handschuh. Lancaster, August 8th, 1748. P. S. — It was not until Saturday afternoon, that I received this infor- mation. HI. [Past. Handschuh's Diary. H. N., n. e. 172-3, o. e. 110-111.] Aug. 17 [N. S.] 1748, at Lancaster, Church Council met, and three of its members and one deacon were chosen as delegates to attend the church consecration, the ordination of Mr. Kurtz, and the Synod at Philadelphia. To the others the attendance was left free according to the condition of their external circumstances. In Earltown also a deacon was appointed to go. August 21, early, two members of the Church Council, JNIr. Vigera and I rode away towards Philadelphia. On the 22d, in the afternoon we arrived there in safety, but very tired. Found Brother Brunnholtz at home, where Mr. Hartwig also soon joined us. Aug. 23, the most important questions from all parts of theology were laid before Mr. Kurtz to be answered in writing. August 24, after din- ner, Brother Muhlenberg with his wife arrived from Providence. Towards 3 o'clock, Mr. Kurtz handed in his written answers to all the questions given him. These we together read and criticised somewhat, after which he was orally examined. Afterwards the necessary matters con- cerning Mr. Kurtz were talked over with the entire Church Council of Tulpehocken. August 25, early, towards 10 o'clock, we preachers to- gether with the Church Council, elders and deacons of each of the con- gregations united with us, went into church in pairs. Mr. Muhlenberg consecrated the newly built church at Philadelphia, and the consecration was confirmed by a brief prayer by each of the preachers as they knelt about the altar. I preached the sermon on the Gospel for the Tenth Sunday after Trinity. After the sermon, Mr. Hartwig and I admin, istered the communion, of which all of us united preachers partook. In the afternoon, Mr. Hartwig preached. After his sermon Mr. Kurtz was ordained. Mr. Muhlenberg earnestly and impressively de- 6 DOCUilENTARY HISTORY. livered the necessary charge to him ; thereupon the hands of Miihlen- berg, the Swedish Provost, Mr. Sandin, the Swedish preacher, Mr. Magister Niissmaun, Mr. Hartwig, j\Ir. Brunnholtz and myself were laid upon him, and then we all, the three Reformed preachers, two of whom only arrived yesterday, and others congratulated him. August 26, Mr. Kurtz preached. After the sermon, a Synod was held in which everything passed off in an orderly and peaceful manner, for which we cannot sufficiently thank God. IV. [Diary of Past. Kuktz, Tulpehocken.] Aug. 12, I arrived in Philadelphia, where to my great joy I met Pastor Hartwig from New York. Toward afternoon ten main ques- tions, together with the minor questions connected with them were laid before me in writing, for me to answer, which I did, as far as God gave grace, and the shortness of tlie time permitted. Aug. 13, in the afternoon, I was examined on the above mentioned questions by Past. IMiihlenberg, Hartwig and Handschuh. In the evening, the license and petition for a regular preacher were laid before the deacons of Tulpehocken for their signatures, and I signed a revers; the call to Tulpehocken was then handed to me. Aug. 14. To-day the church in Phil, was consecrated by P. Miihlen- berg. P. Handschuh preached. We then took the Communion. In the afternoon at 3 o'clock service was again held. Past. Hartwig preached on Acts 20 : 18-21 : " What a teacher has to do, or must do, if he \vishes to be innocent of the blood of his hearers." Then my duty was defined, and I was consecrated and appointed to the holy ministry by prayer and supplication, by P. IMiihlenberg, in the presence of the Swedish preachers. P. IMuhlenberg explained the meaning of the laying on of hands, certainly a difficult and important office. May the gracious and merciful God keep mc ever mindful of this ! May He assist me, and grant wisdom, faitlifulness, watchfulness and untiring carefulness, humility and purity, not only that I may save my own soul, but also that, with all faithfulness, I may tend those entrusted to me, that I may not through negligence be guilty of their blood! My great unfitness renders this office difficult for me, but may the God who lias called me, give strength and fitness ; for this reason I plead humbly, " Lord, forsake me not, and, as it pleases Thee, bestow upon my office Thy blessing, should it even be but a single soul that I may save. Thine shall be the honor. Amen." Aug. 15. To-day the Synod was held ; I preached ou the text given FIRST CONVENTION, 1748. 7 me, Acts 26: 18, from which I showed the object of the ministry: 1. In what it consists ; 2, the blesssed gain they have in whom it is attained. V. [Pastor Muhlenberg's Eeport, 1748. H. N., n. e. 392-3 ; o. e. 284-6.] Aug. 14, the Tenth Sunday after Trinity, the invited preachers and delegated elders of our United Congregations assembled in and before Pastor Brunnholtz's dwelling, and went to the church in procession. The Swedish Provost, Mr. Sandin, and Pastor Hartwig led ; Pastor Brunnholtz and I followed with the Church Councils of Philadelphia and Germantown, and the delegates of the congregations at Providence, New Hanover, Upper Milford and Saccum ; after these came Pastor Handschuh with the delegates from the city of Lancaster and Earl- town ; last of all followed Mr. Kurtz with the delegates from Tulpe- hocken and the Nordkiel. Mr. Schaum could not conveniently attend with his delegates, because Yorktown is farthest removed and the invita- tion was not received early enough because of the shortness of the time. At the beginning of the service the hymn " Komm heiliger Geist, Herre Gott, erfull mit," etc., was sung antiphonally and in harmony. All the preachers present stood around the altar, and all the delegates from the congregations formed a semicircle on the organ loft. After the hymn, one of lis read a congratulation written in English, which the oldest of the Swedish preachers [Tranberg] had sent, as he could not himself be present. Thereupon one of us made a short address, calling to mind that the foundation stones of this church had been laid with the inten- tion that in it the Evangelical Lutheran doctrine, according to the foundation of the Prophets and Apostles, and the unaltered Augsburg Confession and all the other Symbolical Books, should be taught ; and recounting under what sad circumstances, temptations and trials (yea, under how many buffetings of Satan) God and so many worthy friends for God's sake had with gentle hand sustained us, so that the building had been brought so far, though with difficulty. Then the whole church, and its parts, the pulpit, the baptismal font, and altar were again conse- crated to the use of the only saving Word and the Ploly Sacraments according to our Symbolical Books ; and the Church Board (" das Kirchen Collegium ") of Philadelphia, had to promise publicly and orally that they would strive with God's assistance to keep the church (according to the foregoing consecration) unto their children and children's children, for the aforenamed purpose, as long as God would protect it from fire, water and other accidents. Finally the fact was also urged, that the church was only an external structure, and had been built to the end, 8 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. that through it the hearts of all hearers should be prepared, as holy temples of the Living God. After this address several stauzas of the hymn," Sei Lob und Ehr dem hochsten Gut," etc., were sung. Then the preachers and delegates knelt and with hearty and earnest prayer com- mended to the Omnipresent God the church now named, St. Michael's. Provost Sandin and Mr. Magister Niisman offered prayer in Swedish, Pastors Brunnholtz, Hartwig, Handschuh and Kurtz in German, and the contents of the prayers amounted to this, that in this house the Name of the Most High God might be hallowed through pure doctrine and holy life, that in it His kingdom might be advanced and His will done, and thereby the holy purpose of all friends and benefactors be attained. Afler this, another hymn was sung, baptism was administered, and then a very edifying and forcible sermon was preached by Pastor Handschuh. After the sermon, we preachers and some members of the congregations partook of the Lord's Supper, and with it closed the service. In the afternoon, we again went to the church in procession. Pastor Hartwig preached an edifying sermon on the words, Ezek. 33: 8. " His blood will I require at thy hand." After the sermon. Provost Sandin, Pastors Brunnholtz, Hartwig, Handschuh and I, together with the candidate, Mr. Kurtz, who was to be ordained, took our places about the altar, and three Reformed preachers were witnesses. The delegates from all the congregations again formed a semi-circle, one of us read the formula of ordination, offered prayer at the close, and with the other preachers laid his hand upon the candidate, and thereby consecrated him to the holy ministry. August 15, we preachers and the delegates again assembled in the church, and held the first General Conference or Synod, as it is to be called, the transactions of which, however, as yet mostly concerned only the external organization. VI. Extract and Copy of the General Church Protocol kept by Rev. Brunnholtz and signed by those present in the Evangelical Luth- eran St. Michael's Church, Philadelphia, August 15, 1748. Hallesche Nachrichten, n. e. 208-211. The United Congregations held a meeting at which were present : Preachers : The Swedish Provost Sandin, Hartwig from New York, Muhlen- berg, Brunnlioltz, Handschuli and Kurtz. Trustee of the Swedish Church : Mr. Koch. DELF/i ated Elders and Deacons from the United Congregations : From Philadelphia, all members of the Church Council and deacons were present. Germantown: Michael Eye, John Grothausen, Anton Hinkel and Deacon Anton Gilbert. FIKST CONVENTION, 1748. 9 Providence : Frederick Marsteller, Anton Heilman, Hieronymus Haas. New Hanover: Jurg Jurger, Andreas Kepner, Carl Beyer. Filial, Upper Milford : Matthias Ox, Heinrich Eitter. Filial, Saccum: Balthes Beil. Tulpehocken : Balthes Anspach, Hannes Immel, Abraham Lauk. Filial, Nordkiel: Andreas Beyer. Lancaster: Dr. Adam Kuhn, Christopher Trenkel, Ludwig Stein, Michael Gross, Bernhard Hubele, Michael Schreyak. Filial, Earlingstown : Jacob Leitner. To New York across the Susquehanna, where Mr. Schaum is stationed, Mr. Handschuli had written, but on account of the shortness of the time and the length of the way, no one was here. The hymn, " Du susse Lieb, schenk uns deine Gunst," etc, was sung : then prayer was offered. Muhlenberg delivered the opening address, as follows : This union has long been desired, but until now it has not been effected, etc. It is known that five years ago an attempt towards this was made in the Swedish Church. But one of the preachers, namely Nyberg, de- feated it, because he said the Lancaster people had already prepared an Order, and their preacher only talked, instead of preached to them. During the investigation concerning the Moravians, the assembly was broken up, the matter was dragged into the papers, etc. A twisted cord of many threads will not easily break. There must be unity among us. Every member in the congregations has children. The deacons would have great responsibility, if they were negligent in helping to create good order, especially in behalf of the children, who, if they were neglected, would help to condemn their parents. AVe are here assembled for this purpose, and, if God will, we shall assemble yearly ; this is only a trial and test. We preachers who are here present, not having wandered hither of our own will, but called and necessitated, are bound to give an account to God and our con- science. We stand in connection with our Fathers in Europe. We must provide not only for ourselves, but also for our posterity, etc., etc, I. EACH COJJGREGATION WAS ASKED ON WHAT TERMS IT WAS WITH ITS PASTOR. The Church Council of Philadelphia testified that they were well sat- isfied with their Pastor Brunnholtz, that he exerted himself only too much ; they wish that God may grant him good health. The Germantown congregation has nothing to say against its Pastor Brunnholtz. Providence and New Hanover are very well satisfied with their pastor, Mr. Muhlenberg. 10 DOCUMENTAEY HISTORY. Tulpehocken is thankful for its new preacher Kurtz, whom the whole congregation desires. They ask the united preachers that a letter of in- troduction be given them in reference to him. We promised it to them. Lancaster and Earlingstown are all well satisfied with Mr. Handschuh, and wish that he may be appointed as their regular teacher for all time. II. THE CONDITION OF THE SCHOOLS. Brunnholtz reports concerning his schools. In Philadelphia he has out of love for the common welfare had a school held in his house for three years and a half; has supported Mr. Schaum for this purpose; since Easter there has been no school, because there was neither school- master, nor the necessary support, as Mr. Schaum had to be used elsewhere. But before winter, he and his eldei-s will do all in their power. In Germantown he now has two school-masters. The one is Mr. Doling, a theological student, who formerly was among the Moravians, but left them several years ago. He keeps school in the heart of Ger- mantown and has many children, but not all are evangelical. At the extreme end of Germantown, there has been a school for almost three years. Near Germantown, there has also been a school of some twenty children. But it is now broken up, because of the lack of support and a school-master. Muhlenberg reported that in Providence there was a school last year, but it was very small ; for the members of the congregation live very far apart. The elders hope to be more zealous in the future, if it be possible, to bring the children together. In New Hanover there is a fair school. Jacob Loser is the school- master. The congregational treasury contributes somewhat to it. In the filials Saccum and Upper IMilford, there is no school ; if the congregations could make provision for a school, a teacher could be had. But the elders answer that the congregations could not have a school together on account of the distance. The proposition was made, whether they could not alternate witli the school-master each month. In that case the Synod desires an early answer from them. In Tulpehocken there is no school. Mr. Kurtz proposes to teach school there himself this Avinter, if he have time. In Nordkicl, a filial of Tulpehocken, the congregation is scattered, one part belonging to Wagner, one part to Stover, and one part to Mr. Kurtz, and tlierefore no provision for a school as yet. Handschuh and his eldei-s report that the school has been flourishing now for a year, since Mr. Schmidt has instructed nearly seventy chil- FIEST CONVENTION, 1748. 11 dren, in which work Mr. Vigera assisted ; but as Mr. Schmidt has de- cided to go to Europe, they are anxious to know where they may get another in his place. In Earlingstown there is no school. III. CONCERNING THE CHURCH CEREMONIES THAT HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED. All the elders of the congregations testify in the name of their con- gregations, that they are well satisfied to use the same ceremonies, since the preachers are united, and they have no objections to our agende, except that the public service lasts too long, especially in the cold win- ter. They ask that it be made briefer ; they leave it to the Ministerium, what to shorten and how. The preachers promise to strive after brevity, and before they sepa- rate, to deliberate and decide the matter. IV. WHY OTHER SO-CALLED PREACHERS, AS STOVER, 8TREITER, AN- DREA AND WAGNER WERE NOT INVITED. Mr. Miihlenberg shows that we can have no fellowship and close brotherhood with them, for 1, they decry us as Pietists, without reason ; 2, they have not been sent hither, have neither an inner nor an external call ; 3, they are not willing to observe the same Church Order that we do ; each wants to conform to the ceremonies of his home ; 4, six years' experience has taught Mr. Muhlenberg that they care for nothing but their bread ; 5, they are under no Consistorium, and give no account of their official doings. V. MR. WAGNER ACCUSES MR. MUHLENBERG OP HAVING DRIVEN HIM PROM TULPEHOCKEN. The Tulpehocken elders were asked, according to their best knowledge and conscience, to inform the meeting as to this matter. The Church Council of Tulpehocken answered : 1, Mr, Muhlenberg did not force himself upon them. 2, The congregation and its elders have since 1742 urgently requested Mr. Muhlenberg to take charge of them ; 3, Mr. Wagner himself resigned in Tulpehocken, as he never succeeded in Tulpehocken, and the divisions in the congregation con- tinually increased. They proposed to wait to see how matters go this year. The elders are exhorted to prayer. Whether those who have left Evangelical congregations, and again join them, but refuse to acknowledge themselves members of the con- gregation by signing their names, must be compelled to do this, and if they will not sign, be regarded as no members ? 12 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. This question was brought up by Mr. Handschuh, because the people in Lancaster do not wish to receive any who do not sign. The meeting thinks that brethren, who had deserted, should be mildly treated at first. Brunnholtz produces several examples of such persons, who formerly were Moravians, but are now faithful members of the congregation, although they have not signed the congregation's constitution. The meeting admonishes the Lancaster people to act wisely in the matter, and to entrust it to their preacher. The elders from Lancaster abide by their opinion, and will let the matter rest until next year. One of the preachers earnestly before God exhorted all elders who were not yet entirely converted, to be converted from the heart, because otherwise they could not fill their office as they ought, and too much would fall upon the preacher in the congregation. They remained silent. After one and another had spoken, and since this was only arranged as an attempt at a closer union and a trial for the future, the meeting after some deliberation, decided that our annual Synod should be held alternately in the two cities, Philadelphia and Lancaster. Therefore if God will, it shall be in Lancaster next year. Two eldei-s must come from each congregation at the congregation's expense. The preachers appoint the time. Mr. Hartwig deUvers an address to the elders, and wishes the con- gregations all prosperity. Provost Sandin is heartily thanked by Brunnholtz in the name of the congregations, for the honor of his presence. He answers, wishes us all God's blessing and grace, and desires to be a member with us. This shall serve as a good example to him, since he came into this country for the purpose of accompHshing a similar work among the Swedes. The Philadelphia elders thank the elders for their presence at their church consecration, and invite them to partake of a light meal. In closing, " Z)?t hochster Troster," etc., was sung. Signed : Miililcnborg, Brunnholtz, Handschuh, Kurtz, Henry Schley- dorn, in the name of the others from Philadelphia, Grothausen from Gerraantown, Marsteller from Providence, Jurg Jurger from New Hanover, Christ. Trenkel from Lancaster, Abraham Lauk from Tul- pehocken, Andr. Beyer, Leitner, Beil, etc., etc. FIKST CONVENTION, 1748. 13 VIL The Church Agenda (Litoegy) of 1748. [Begun at Providence, April 27-29 (H. N., n. e. p. 449), and com- pleted at Philadelphia, according to promise made the lay delegates, as above recorded. The translation by Dr. C. W. Schaeffer of the text as prepared by Dr. B. M. Schmucker for the new edition of H. N., by a comparison of two MSS., is herewith given. In addition to the two known to Dr. Schmucker, a third MS., that of Goering, is in the collec- tion of the Lutheran Historical Library at Gettysburg, Pa., from which Dr. C. A. tlay has translated extracts in his " Life of Goering," Phila- delphia, 1887.] [The Agenda of 1748 was never printed ; but each pastor provided himself with a written copy for his own use. Two of these copies came into the hands of the late Kev. Dr. J. W. Kichards of Reading, who himself was a descendant of the patriarch Miihlenberg. The oldest and most complete copy came down from the hands of Pastor Jacob Van Buskerk, and is from the year 1763. It has the Chapters and paragraphs numbered, while the ritual and liturgical appointments are complete. The other copy is from the hand of Pastor Peter Miihlenberg, who was in Dunmore County, Va., at the time when this copy was written — that is, in 1769. Here the chapters and paragraphs are not numbered. Thedirectious for the several divisions are not given in full ; but the liturgical material is com- plete. What we here furnish in print is taken from the copy of Pastor Van Buskerk, and varies from it only in certain unimportant parts, that have been somewhat confused, the correction being supplied from the copy of Peter Muhlenberg. Notice of these variations is always given. All the contents of the Liturgy are given, in regular order ; yet only the more important parts are printed in full.] CHAPTER I. THE MANNER IN WHICH PUBLIC WORSHIP SHAIiL BE CONDUCTED IN ALL OUR CONGREGATIONS. When the pastor enters the church the service shall begin with the singing of the hymn "Nun bitten wir den Heiligen Geist," either entire, or several verses of it ; or a verse of the hymn " Komm Heiliger Oeist, Herre Qott." §2. After the singing of the hymn, or the verse, the pastor goes to the altar, turns his face to the congregation, and says : Beloved in the Lord ! Thus saith the High and Lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose Name is 14 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Holy : I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones : I will not always chide, neither will I keep anger forever : only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Accompany me therefore in making confession of sins, saying : I, a poor sinner, confess unto God, my heavenly Father, that I have grievously and in various ways sinned against Him ; not only by outward and gross sins, but much more by inward blindness of heart, unbelief, doubt, despondency, impatience, pride, selfishness, carnal lusts, avarice, envy, hatred and malice, and by other sin- ful passions which are naked and open in the sight of my Lord and God, but which I, alas ! cannot so fully understand. But I do sincerely repent, in deep sorrow, for these my sins ; and with my whole heart I cry for mercy from the Lord, through His dear Son Jesus Christ, being resolved, with the help of the Holy Ghost, to amend my sinful life. Amen. Lord God the Father in heaven, have mercy upon us. Lord God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy upon us. Lord God the Holy Ghost, liave mercy upon us and grant us Thy peace. Amen. After the confession the hymn " Allein Gott in der Hoh sei JEhr" shall be sung. During the singing of the last verse the pastor goes to the altar, turns his face to the congregation, and says : The Lord be with you. The congregation responds : And with thy spirit. The pastor says : Let us pray. Then he prays in the words of the Collect which is appointed for the Sunday or the festival, in the Marburg Hymn-book. After the Collect the lesson from the Epistle shall be read, being introduced with the following words: Let us devoutly listen to the reading of the lesson for this day, from the, etc. ?.5. Then shall be sung the principal hymn, selected by the pastor, from the liynins in the Marburg Hymn-book — one familiar to the whole congregation. The whole hymn, or only a part of it, shall be sung, as circumstances may decide. After th« singing of the principal hymn, the Gospel lesson shall bo read, being introduced with tlie same words as before the epistle. After the Gospel the pastor repeats devoutly the Creed, in verse, " Wir glauben all." If children are present to be baptized, the Gospel and the Creed are omitted. FIKST CONVENTION, 1748. 15 Before the sermon the hymn '^ Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier," or "Serr Jesu Christ, Dich zu uns wend," is sung, either entire or in part. Ordinarily the sermon shall be limited to three-quarters of an hour, or, at the utmost, to one hour. If the pastor is moved to have an exordium or a series of supplications before he begins the Lord's Prayer, he is at liberty to do so. After the Lord's Prayer, as usual, [the Gospel is read?] during which reading the con- gregation shall stand. The sermon being concluded, nothing else shall be read than the appointed Church-prayer here following, or the Litany instead of it, by way of change ; and nothing but necessity shall occasion its omission. . . . After the General Prayer petitions for the sick shall follow, in case request has been made to that effect ; then shall follow the Lord's Prayer, and then whatever proclamation and notices may be required. When all is done, the pastor closes with the Votum : The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds, through Christ Jesus, unto eternal life. Amen. [This paragraph is taken from the copy of Peter Muhlenberg. ] Then a hymn shall be sung. After the sermon and the closing hymn the pastor goes to the altar and says : " The Lord be with you." Cong. Be^. "And with thy spirit." Pastor. " Let us pray." Hold us up, O Lord, Lord our God, that we may live ; and let our hope never make us ashamed. Help us by Thy might, that we may wax strong ; and so shall we ever delight ourselves in Thy statutes, through Jesus Christ Thy dear Son, our Lord. Amen. After the sermon in the afternoon shall be sung the hymn " Ach, bleib bei uns Herr Jesu Christ." Then shall follow The Benediction. The Lord bless thee and keep thee, give thee peace, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. Then a verse shall be sung at the close. CHAPTER II. OP BAPTISM AKD WHAT IS TO BE OBSERVED AT ITS ADMIITISTKATION. [This agrees, nearly word for word, with the printed Liturgy of 1786.] CHAPTER IIL or PROCLAIMING THE BANNS. 16 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. CHAPTER IV. OF CONFESSION AND THE HOLY COMMUNION. Ordinarily, whenever circumstances admit of it, the Supper of the Lord shall be administered on Christmas, ou Easter, and on Pentecost. It may also be admin- istered at other times, as the necessities of the congregation may demand. §2. The pastor shall give notice from the pulpit of the administration of the Lord's Supper, one week or two weeks before the time of its celebration. To this notice he shall add a short exhortation, and at the same time he shall inform the people as to the day when they shall report themselves to him and have their names recorded. §3. The pastor shall keep a register of the communicants, which is to continue in the care of the congregation. H. In case the pastor should know that, among those who call upon him to report their names for the Holy Communion, there is one or more who are living in strife, or occasioning public scandal, and his own influence should not be sufficient to remedy the evil, he may call the vestry of the congregation together, and direct such offenders to appear before them, with their plea and answer. 15. On the day before the administration of the Lord's Supper, and at the hour appointed by the pastor, the communicants shall all assemble in the church, when the following order shall be observed : 1. A penitential hymn, or a hymn suited to the object of the meeting, shall be sung. 2. After the hymn the pastor, speaking from the pulpit, exhorts the people to repentance ; and in the application makes use of what he may have observed and learned about their spiritual state at the time when they reported their names. 3. After the Lord's Prayer the pastor reads aloud the names of the communi- cants that have been reported to him. 4. After the reading of the names a verse is sung, and the pastor goes before the altar and receives and writes the names of those persons who, for satisfactory reasons, could not report themselves before. 5. Then the pastor calls upon the male communicants first, to come before him, and addresses to them the following questions : I now ask you in the presence of the omniscient God, and upon the testimony of your own conscience : 1, 2. [The first two questions have been retained unchanged in all subsequent editions of the Pennsylvania Liturgy.] 3. I ask you: Whether you are fully resolved, witli the help of God, to yield yourselves entirely to the gracious direction of the Holy Spirit, by His word ; in order that by the power, the help, and the grace of the same, sin may be subdued FIRST CONVENTION, 1748. 17 in you, the old man -with his evil deeds and corrupt affections be weakened and overcome by daily sorrow and repentance, and that you may win a complete vic- tory over the world and all its allurements? If this be your serious purpose, confess it and answer, Yes. 4. Finally, I ask you : Whether any one of you yet has, in his heart, any com- plaint against another. 6. After these questions are answered, then the pastor and all of them together kneel down, when one of the communicants leads in repeating the confession of sin aloud, the pastor himself adding a few words of prayer. [The copy of Van Buskerk has no form of confession for this act ; but the Miihienberg copy supplies the following :] I, a poor sinner, confess unto God, my heavenly Father, that I have grievously and in various ways sinned against Him, not only by outward, etc. ; . . . with the help of the Holy Ghost to amend my sinful life. Amen. [The same as under ?2.] 7. The pastor pronounces the absolution in the following words: Upon this confession of sin which you have now made, I, a minister of my Lord Jesus Christ, hereby declare, to all those who are truly penitent and heartily believe in Jesus Christ, and are sincerely resolved, in heart, to amend their lives and daily to grow in grace, to them I declare the forgiveness of all their sins ; in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. But, on the other hand, I declare to all who are impenitent, to the hypocritical as well as the openly ungodly, and I testify, by the "Word of God, and in the name of Jesus, that so long as they continue in their impenitent state, loving sin and hating righteousness, God will not forgive their sins, but retains their sins against them, and will assuredly punish and condemn them for their iniquities, in the end, except they turn to Him, now, in this day of grace ; except they sincerely for- sake all their evil ways, and come to Christ in true repentance and faith ; which we heartily pray they may do. Amen. Then the Service shall close with the singing of a verse, and the Benediction pronounced by the pastor. [Here a leaf is missing from the Van Buskerk copy, that retained all of the Retentio, after the words " open ungodly," and the beginning of the order for the Holy Communion. The missing portions are supplied from the Miihienberg copy. The Van Buskerk copy, which is defective in Sections 6 and 7, begins again in Section 8.] THK HOLY COMMUNION. The minister goes before the altar, places the bread and the wine in order, then turns to the congregation and says : Minister. The Lord be with you. Congregation. And with thy spirit. Minister. Let us lift up our hearts. Congregation. We lift them up unto the Lord. Minister. Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Sabaoth. Congregation. The whole earth is full of His glory. Before the Communion the pastor addresses the communicants in the exhorta- tion here following. 2 18 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Beloved in the Lord I [Here follows Luther's Paraphrase of the Lord's Prayer, and his exhortation to the sacrament, exactly as it occurs in his "Deutsche Messe " (German Commu- nion) of 1626.] §9- The pastor turns his face to the bread and wine, and repeats the Lord's Prayer and the Words of Institution. Let us pray : Our Fatlier, etc. Our Lord Jesus Christ in the night ... in remembrance of me. ?10. Then the pastor turns to the congregation and says : Now let all those who are found to be prepared, -by the experience of sincere repentance and faith, approach, in the name of the Lord, and receive the Holy Supper. * §11. In giving the bread the pastor shall say these words : Take and eat : this is the true ''■ Body of your Lord Jesus Christ, given unto death for you ; may this strengthen j'ou in the true faith unto everlasting life. Amen. In giving the cup : Take and drink ; this is the true Blood of your Lord Jesus Christ, of the New Testament, shed for you for the forgiv^eness of your sins, unto everlasting life. Amen. 112. The communion being finished, the pastor shall say : Oh give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good : Hallelujah. The congregation responds : And His mercy endureth forever : Hallelujah. Tlien tlie pastor says the following collect: We give Thee thanks, O gracious God, our Heavenly Father, because Thou hast refreshed us with these Thy salutary gifts ; and we humbly beseech Thee to strengthen us, tlirough the same, in faith toward Thee, and in fervent love toward one another, through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour, Amen. Receive the blessing of the Lord. Tlie Lord bless thee and keep thee, etc. Amen. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Gliost. Amen. VIII. Examination and Ordination op Catechist Kurtz. We, the undersigned, on the twelfth of August, submitted to Catechist Kurtz, the following questions, to be answered in writing, as a prepara- tion for the examination to be held the next day : 'The insertion of " true " was a concession to Revs. Wagner, Stover, etc. See Mann's " Life of Miihlenberg," pp. 185 sqq. FIRST CONVENTION, 1748. 19 I. K J. C. I. The candidate is to prepare a sketch of his life, giving, iu as brief a compass as possible, an account of its chief events and of his academ- ical studies. As this may readily become too extensive, it will suffice, if he briefly narrate: 1. His first awakening; 2. How God furthered the work of grace in his heart ; 3. What moved him to study for the holy ministry, and where, in what branches and under whose direction, he has attempted to prepare himself. II. What theological books does he have ? III. Mention the Chief Divisions of Theology, and answer the fol- lowing questions concerning — 1. What is Theology? 2. A general answer to the question : What is Sin, and a more specific statement as to what is Original Sin ? 3. Describe the Sin against the Holy Ghost ; 4. Give an extended description of the Justification of the Sinner before God, and confirm it with proof texts; 5. What is Saving Faith? 6. Whether and in how far are good works necessary to Salvation ? 7. What is Sanctification, and how is it promoted ? 8. In how far is Death the Wages of Sin (a), in the converted, (6), in the unconverted ? IV. Whether our Evangelical Lutheran is the only justifying and sav- ing faith, and upon what scriptural foundations does it rest ? V. Give an exegetical explanation of Luke 16:8. VI. Prepare from this the theme and skeleton of a sermon, with ap- plication. VII. Describe the true character and duties of an evangelical preacher. VIII. How an evangelical preacher should conduct himself towards the dying who confess that they are sinners in general, without confess- ing any special sin ? IX. Whether, and in how far evangelical preachers can and should be in subordination to one another ? The answers, with the questions and proofs, to be neatfy written out, and to be ready for submission by three o'clock to-morrow afternoon. All for the glory of God, and the good of the Church ! Peter Brunnholtz. John Frederick Handschuit. John Christopher Hartwig. H. Muhlenberg had not yet arrived. IX. [Of the answers to the questions, the following on the confessional basis is of especial interest.] 20 DOCUMENTARY IIISTOEY. Whether our Evakgelicai. LrrnERAN Doctrixe is the oxly Saving Doctrine. I hesitate to say, yea, I dare not say, that those, who are outside of this doctrine, who by their name fail to confess this doctrine, should be condemned. Yet, to the question, whether our Evangelical Lutheran doctrine be the only justitying and saving doctrine, I reply : Yea and Amen, and this I prove by the following : 1. Because it teaches the Word of God in its truth and purity. 2. Because we, as the children of God, lead holy lives in accordance with it. It is the first proof which is of importance to me here. With us the Word of God is taught in its truth and purity ; therefore, our doctrine is the only saving doctrine. Now I must prove the first sentence : Those principles or articles of a doctrine, wliich clearly and plainly have their foundation in the Word of God and again, which are articles, necessary to salvation, are the most correct and best. Now, since the fundamental articles of the Lutheran doctrines clearly and plainly have their foundation in the Word of God, and since they are necessary to salvation, they must be the most correct and the best. If we examine our Symbolical Books, which contain the principles of our doctrine or religion, we will find that they are taken from the Word of God and substantiated bij the Word of God. Consequently they be- long to the class of symbols, which set forth the correct divine truth. The passage, Acts 9 [4], " for there is none other name," is firmly estab- lished with us. The passage, " Repent ye and believe the Gospel," is also not less firmly established with us, and the third and ninth chapters of the Epistle to the Romans are duly recognized. The doctrine concerning the Person, the Offices and the States of our Redeemer, is also clearly taught among us. X. From " Revers " op John Nicholas Ktjrtz. [TI. N., n. e., p. 135]. I acknowledge myself bound to carefully fulfill the following con- ditions of my call, even though not expressly mentioned in the written call : I. To show the respect to the Rev. Pastors of the United Cougrega- FIRST CONVENTION, 1748. 21 tions, to which I was bound in the certificate of the call, given me by Dr. Fraucke at Halle, May 21, 1744. II. To regard my congregation as only a part of the United Congre- gations. III. To teach in my congregation nothing, whether publicly or privately, but what harmonizes with the Word of God and the Confes- sions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and, to this end, to study them diligently. IV. To introduce no other ceremonies in public worship, and the administration of the sacraments, than those introduced by " the College of Pastors " of the United Congregations, and to use no other formulas than those which they approve. V. To undertake nothing important, either alone or in connection with the Church Council, without communicating with " the CoUege of Pastors," and receiving their opinion, and acquiescing in their advice. VI. To give an account of my official acts, either orally or in writ- ing, as the " Reverend College of Pastors " may require. VII. To keep a diary and journal and enter therein my official acts, and all notable incidents. VIII. If they call me away, to accept the call, and not resist. These items, and everything naturally implied therein, I acknowledge as the conditions of my call, and my obligation thereto. I also de- clare to every one that, if I intentionally act against any one, or more, or all of these particulars, I will thereby forfeit all the privileges to which my call entitles me, and will acknowledge myself, as, by such unfaithfulness, deserving due punishment. In testimony whereof, I attach my hand and seal, in the presence of the undersigned witnesses. John Nicholas Kurtz. Witnesses : Abraham Lauck. John Nicholas Schwingel. Philadelphia, August 13, 1748. XI. From a Letter to the Synod from the Titlpehocken Congregation, [H. N., n. e., pp. 139 sq.]. The reasons that move us to have recourse to the " Reverend Col- lege of Pastors," in regard to matters pertaining to our souls, and to call them as our pastors, are. among others, chiefly the following : 1. Their true, regular, and, consequently, divine call. 22 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 2. The good testimonies given by the spiritual fathers and public teachers of our Evangelical Lutheran Church in Europe, who have shone, for many years, as lights in the entire Protestant Church, because of their zeal for tiie maintenance of the evangelical doctrine according to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, and their correct life in accordance with the same, and the entire Word of God, from which it is taken. Of these, especially important are the testimonies of those of the University of Halle, in Saxony, which is like a city set upon a bill. ... 3. We are moved also by your steadfastness in tlie confession and doctrine of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, which is violently attacked here, partly by false brethren, partly by fanatical sects, partly by Epicureans, as well as by othei-s. In these attacks you have stood not only for your own persons, but also have kept together, collected and increased the members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. This is said to the glory of God who aided you. 4. We are impressed by your faithful administration of your oflSce, whereby )'ou have turned many from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, and retained them. 5. Your ministerial gifts and prudence, and also your experience and your ability to accommodate yourselves to the peculiar circum- stances of this country. 6. This union encourages us with the hope that the blessings experi- enced in the foundation may be perpetuated for us and our posterity. 7. The fidelity and carefulness you have shown in the administration of your office, not only in your own United Congregations, but also in others that have resorted to you. These, and still other circumstances, have moved us, in view of our need, to place confidence in you, reverend sirs, next to that which we have in God ; and the desire has arisen that we may be incorporated with the United Congregations in Pennsylvania, and be recognized as brethren and members of a particular congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and thus share in the pastoral care of the entire " College of Pastors " of the United Congregations. We hereby most publicly and solemnly petition, recognize and de- clare all the pastors of the United Congregations of Pennsylvania, as our pastors and shepherds, and fully authorize them to care for the interests of our souls in whatsoever way, and through what means, and as long as they may wish. We promise, furthermore, to recognize the aforesaid " College of' Pastors " of the Evangelical Lutheran congrega- tions in Pennsylvania, as a true and regular Presbytery and IMinis- terium, and, particularly, as our chief pastore, and to respect them as FIEST CONVENTION, 1748. 23 such. Nor will we do, determine or change anything in church mat- ters, without their previous knowledge and consent. Consequently, not only will we have no dealings with any other preacher, but we will not undertake anything important, even in connection with the I^reacher whom they send, unless said undertaking be previously known and approved by them. Whatever said " College of Pastors " deter- mines in regard to matters pertaining to us and our congregation, when due information is given, we will accept, and, as far as we are able, wiU fulfill. Furthermore, we promise that whatever minister is sent by the " College of Pastors " we will acknowledge and respect and obey, as our regular and divinely-called pastor, as long as said "College of Pastors " deem it advisable for him to remain with us. Nor will we object, if, for important reasons, they agree to call him elsewhere, and supply his place with another pastor. Said successor will be received with equal love and fidelity. We also promise that should any mis- understanding or division occur, which may God forbid ! either between the congregation, or a part thereof, and the pastor ; or between the members of the congregation, we will report the same to the " College of Pastors," await the result, and acquiesce in their decision. SECOND CONVENTION. 1749. SECOND SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY (June 4, in Lancaster). I. [Pastor Muhlenberg's Report of his Official Transactions, 1749. Hal- lesche Nachrichten (n. e.) 492-3. (o. e. 329-330.)] The congregation at Yorktown, in Pennsylvania, where Mr. Schaum had been stationed up to this time, earnestly requested us to ordain their preacher, because Valentine Kraft and his followers were intimating there that Mr. Schaum's official acts Avere not vaHd. Since we already had provisional permission from our most worthy Fathers, we appointed the fourth of June for the ordination, and the fifth for the General Con- ference in the city of Lancaster. .... June 3, we examined Mr. Schaum, completed the papers relat- ing to the call, (vocation) and had them signed by those deacons and elders from Yorktown Avho were jiresent. June 4, the Second Sunday after Trinity, all the preachers and dele- gates of the United Congregations assembled in front of and in Pastor Handschuh's dwelling, and while the bells were ringing, went to the church in procession in the following order : 1. Pastor Handschuh and his church council ; 2, Pastor Brunnholtz, Mr. Weiser and the delegates from Philadelphia and Germantown ; 3, Pastor Muhlenberg and the delegates from New Hanover and Providence ; 4, Deacon Kurtz and the delegates from Tidpehocken and Nordkiel ; 5, Mr. Schaum and his church council from Yorktown. jNIy colleagues made me preach on the Gospel of the Great Supper. After the sermon, all present formed a semi-circle around the altar, and were our witnesses, and prayed with us, while we ordained Mr. Schaum, Afterwards, we preachei's, together with several members of the congregation, received the Holy Commu- nion, and with it closed the morning's service. At the afternoon service, Mr, Kurtz preached. In the evening about six o clock, I had to preach a sermon in our church to the English people, because they have no preacher, and greatly desired such service. June 5, all the preachers and delegates again went to the church. After Mr. Schaum had preached, they held a conference concerning 24 SECOND CONVENTION, 1749. '25 the improvement of our United Evangelical Congregations. The congregations at Raritan, Upper Milford and Saccum, had sent no representatives, because they are too remote, but sent letters, which were read in the conference. II. [Pastor Handschuh's Diaky. H. N. (n. e.) 538-9. (o. e.) 404-6.] June 1. . . . Very late Rev. Streiter arrived with a deacon from Earl- town, to complain to me of his need. He desired to plead the many advantages to be gained by his being ordained by us, and to enter our fellowship. The ordination offered him by Andrea, Stover, and Wag- ner, he did not want. June 2. Since the ordination of Mr. Schaum as preacher at York is appointed for the coming Sunday, and the general meeting of Synod here at Lancaster for the following Monday, my dear colleagues, Mr. ^Muhlenberg and Mr. Brunnholtz, with their companion, Mr. Schrenck, an excellent candidate of law, arrived this afternoon. Towards evening, Mr. Schaum also arrived from York. The whole evening, after the people gave us rest, was spent, till a very late hour, in necessary conferences. June 3. In the afternoon we went to preparatory services. Mr. Brunnholtz preached the sermon, and I delivered the exhortation to repentance and confession. Among the twenty who confessed, there was one man, at whose request, and in whose name, I had to ask the con- gregation to pardon his former scandalous life. Nor was he satisfied that I had done this, but he also did it in his own words with many tears. Whereupon he was again earnestly exhorted by me, and he faithfully promised that he would, by the grace of God, thoroughly re- form his life. About five o'clock, we preachers entered upon an exam- ination of our former helper, Mr. Schaum, which we conducted in turn, amid many useful reminiscences. After it was finished, we had the elders, deacons, and other members of the congregation at York on the Cathores who were present, come before us, and talked with them about Mr. Schaum's call and ordination. Pastor Muhlenberg, being the oldest, carried on most of the conversation. The York people then ex- tended their call to INIr. Schaum (by which they also called us ordained preachers to be their rightful teachers), after which Mr. Schaum's " revers " was read and signed by him, and his church members as wit- nesses, in accordance with which he promised, with the giving of his hand, to conduct himself faithfully and obediently as our assistant. Finally the call to York, signed by us four [Muhlenberg, Brunnholtz, Handschuh and Kurtz], was extended to him, and with hearty con- gratulations, this work was ended at a late hour. 26 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. On the Second Sunday after Trinity, I baptized a child, and Mr. Muhlenberg preached. After the sermon, he also deUvered the address to the one to be ordained, explained to him his official duties, etc. Mr. Brunnholtz offered prayer, and, after the prayer, we consecrated him [Schaum] with the laying on of hands. During the Ordination Ser- vice, aU of the delegates of church councils, and deacons of the con- gregations united with us, and stood about the altar as witnesses. In the afternoon, Mr. Kurtz preached an edifying sermon. About five o'clock in the evening, Mr. Muhlenberg again preached to the English in their language. June 5, at half-past eight, all the members of church councils and deacons of the United Congregations assembled before our dwelling, with whom we went to the church, two and two, each preacher with those from his charge. Mr. Schaum preached the synodical sermon. After the close of the service, our Church Convention was held, thanks to God ! in good order, love and unity. The following is what was unanimously decided : 1 . No theological student or ex-preacher who has come to ug without a regular call and sufficient testimonials, shall be permitted to preach, until he have been satisfactorily examined by us. 2. In the future, parents shall in baptism be asked : " Do you in the name of this child renounce," etc. " Do you in the name of this child believe," etc. 3. Toward all and each of our fellows in the faith and church members, who live in open crime, we are to conduct ourselves in accordance with the precept of our Lord Jesus Christ, Matth. 18 : 15-17, and indeed in such wise, that such an one be brought, (a) before the preacher alone, (b) before the whole Church Council, and the deacons, (c) before all the church members who remain standing after service, and they shall be addressed in a brotherly way ; but if all this should be fruitless, such an one is to be (d) publicly excluded, before all men and from the pulpit, from our church communion and fellowship, in so far that he shall neither stand as sponsor to any child in baptism, nor go to Communion, until he shall have shown genuine proof of improvement. 4. Next year our Church Convention shall be held in Providence with Pastor Muhlenberg. 5. In case one of our United Preachers should die, the other preachers shall assist his congregation and serve it as far as possi- ble. About three o'clock in the afternoon the Church Convention closed, and we went, each preacher with his delegates, three by three, out of church, through a part of the city, to the house of one of the members of our Churoh Council, where a meal was prepared and more than sixty persons dined. During the meal, edifying hymns were sung alternately in each of the rooms, and everything was ended in the best spirit and to general satisfaction. THIRD CONVENTION. 1750. FIRST SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY, (June 17. in Providence.) [Pastor Muhlenberg's Report of His Official Transactions, 1750 Hallesche Nachrichten (n. e.) 507, 595, f. (o. e.) 352-4.] Ill the month of June preparations were made for the annual meeting. Providence was appointed as the place, and June 17 and 18, as the time. June 11, Pastor Brunnholtz arrived in Providence, in order to make the necessary arrangements with me, and to refresh himself in the country air. June 15, Mr. Weygand, with three elders from Raritan, arrived, as also Pastor Handschuh from Lancaster, but his congregation sent no delegates, although they had been requested to do so. Further, Assistant Schaum came with two delegates from his congregation. Finally Assistant Kurtz with three delegates from Tulpehocken, Substitute Schrenck with four men from his congregations also arrived, and at evening three elders from Raritan. June 16, we laid Latin examination questions before Mr. Weygand, which he was to answer. On the same day Mr. Handschuh came with his wife, but the congregation sent no delegates, which increased the confusion At evening the three leading elders of the Raritan congregation arrived, who several weeks before this had sent in writing eight points of complaint against Mr. Weygand. They pro- tested against Mr. Weygand's ordination, and also brought the men who had come with Mr. Weygand over to their side. We preachers, with Mr. Weygand and the men, went to a place alone, and conferred till late at night, heard both parties, and censured Mr. Weygand severely for the points in which he had erred and given offence. But the afore- mentioned three men insisted that at this time he should not be ordained for their congregation. They wished to see whether he would improve; then he might be ordained for Raritan, at the consecration of their new church. We dared not ordain him by force, but were embarrassed and Mr. Weygand yet more so, because it had become a matter of gen- 27 28 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. eral report that he was to be ordained. This protest was indeed the greatest punishment that Mr. Weygand drew upon himself by his indiscretions. June 17, the First Sunday after Trinity, there assembled in and before my house Messrs. Brunnholtz, Handsclmh, Kurtz, Scliaum, Weygand, Schrenck, Rauss, as also the delegates, in number as fol- lows : from Philadelphia, eight ; German town, six ; Providence, twelve ; New Hanover, six ; the Swedish-English congregation, one ; Tulpe- hocken and Heidelberg, Mr. Weiser and four others ; Yorktowu, across the Susquehanna, two ; Lancaster, one, who, however, came of his own accord, and was not sent by the congregation ; from Upper Milford, Saccum, Fork and Saccuna, four; Indianfield, two ; Goschenhoppen, two ; the Tohecka, two ; Macunshey. two ; Raritan, six, and Coheuzy, two. These all went in procession from my house to the church and held service in peace and revei'ence before God. We had removed the windows and made protections of green bushes about the church, because the church could not hold the mass of people. Pastor Hand- sclmh pi'eached the chief sermon. (The people complained that they could not understand Handschuh because of his weak voice.) After the sermon I made a short address to the people, on "The Footsteps of God," how for eight years they have abounded in blessings among us scattered Lutherans. Afterwards I also made a short Latin address to my colleagues. After the service the members of the congregation at Providence who lived nearest took their guests home, and shared with them what the Lord had granted them for their nourishment, and I acted the host for the preachers and other good friends, as many as the house could hold. Toward evening most of the delegates again assem- bled at my house, with the intention that they would have an edifying conversation with the collegiimi of preachers. I did not know with what intention they came, but did the best I could, related something about the mission among the Malabars, among the Jews, and similar things, that were edifying and easily understood. But I could not continue very long, as I was wearied by the great work of the day. ]Mr. Brunnholtz continued, but was weak, Mr. Handschuh had no strength, and the younger men hid themselves here and there. This caused dissatisfaction among tlie delegates, who said they had come so far, since they had thought they would be edified by tlie presence of the preachers, as they seldom had the opi)ortunity of having so many together ; but that most of the preachers had taken no notice of them, and therefore they had but scant fare. The Swedish Provost did not come as he had promised, and sent no letter of excuse, which confirmed the conjecture that Nyberg and his followers had made some attempt. THIRD CONVENTION, 1750. 29 June 18tli we again went to church together, had Mr. Weygand preach, and afterwards held a long conference concerning the external condition and improvement of the congregations. Of the necessity, purpose and usefulness of such a yearly meeting and conference of the preachers and delegated elders of the congregations much might be written, did it not appear to all how and why they are necessary. After the conference nearly eighty persons were supplied with food as they needed, and the preachers were distributed among the guests seek- ing to edify the delegates and other members of the congregations with profitable conversation. After the meal the lesults of the conference were reduced to writing, and a copy given to each of the congregations, and the delegates started on their journey home. Again at this meet- ing and conference everything passed oiF in an orderly and Christian manner. The preachers remained together and waited for Mr. Wag- ner, who arrived on June 19, presented his complaints and agreed to a neighborly amnesty with us. God grant that it may be of some advantage both to us and to him ! n. [HAI.I.ESCHE Nachrichten. (n. e. pp. 471-3.)] Copia Protocolli Synodi, held in Providence, June 18, 1750. Kept by Pastor Handschuh. The names of the preachers and members of this meeting present, are : I. Preachers : Messrs. Muhlenberg, Brunnholtz, Handschuh, Kurtz, Schaum. II. Catechists : Mr. Weygand, Mr. Schrenck. III. Mr. Conrad Weiser and Mr. Rauss, as friends. IV. Members of Church Councils and deacons : 1. Philadelphia: Schoolmaster Vigera, Mr. Schleydorn, Mr. Keppele, Mr. Seckel ; the deacons : Thomas Siirmer, Adam Weber and Caspar Graf. From the congregation voluntarily : Wilhelm Rausk, Johannes Oswald, Johannes Eberle. 2. Germantown : Anton Hinkel, Christoph Rabens, Martin Schwarz ; the deacons : Frederick Engel, Jurg [?] Hofmann. 3. Lancaster : Dr. Adam Simon Kuhn. 4. York : Balthasar Knorzer, Barthol. Maul. 5. Tulpehocken: Christoph Nacker, Leonhard Plolstein, Conrad Lang. 6. Raritan : Balthasar Pickel, Johann Mohlig, Laurenz Rolofsen, Jacob Schubmann, Adam Vackerodt. 7. Saccum ; Balthasar Beil. 30 DOCUMENTAEY niSTORY. 8. Upper Milford : Thomas Kerr. 9. The Fork : Gottfried Mohlig, Joh. G. Raup. 10. Birkensee : Two Deacons. 11. Goschenhoppen and Indianfield, where Andrea was stationed : Reyer, Schneider, Lohr and B. Crdsmann. 12. Cohenzy : Gabriel Trollinger, Schoolmaster Michael Dielshofer. 13. Providence: All the twelve elders and deacons. 14. New Hanover : Four elders. 15. Mackunshy : Two men. Acta et Conclusa Synodi Nov. Provid. d. 18 Juni, 1750, habiti. 1. Pastor Muhlenberg's proposition concerning the necessity of a Superintendent over all our United Congregations, to be elected yearly. To this office, although one of the Philadelphia Church Council objected, because of his delicate health, and numerous duties. Pastor Brunnholtz was elected for this year. 2. The Acta et Conclusa of the Lancaster Synod held in the previous year, together with the names of the members at that time present from the United Congregations present, were again read. 3. To the question, whether there were peace in the congregations between ministers and congregations : a. Philadelpliia had notliiug to reply, b. Germantown complained of neglect of the church, whereupon Pastor Brunnholtz replied that they had always had services ; sometimes Mr. Rauss had preached, and sometimes Mr. Vigera had read when his own enfeebled condition hindered him from officiating, c. Lancaster : There was some little difficulty between Mr. Handschuh and the congre- gation, but it was soon removed, and Mr. Conrad Weiser was prevailed upon to give an impartial judgment, d. York : The congregations were well satisfied with Rev. Mr. Schaum. e. The Tulpehocken congregation and Providence testified similarly. /. The misunderstanding between j\Ir. Schrenck and liis Birkensee congregation was briefly mentioned, and the deacons placed the blame for the separation in the congregation upon Mr. Schrenk. The further investigation of this was postponed, g. The Raritan people had nothing against Mr. Weygand's teaching, and also wisiied to keep him longer. Other matters bad been already taken up and settled by the preachers two days previously. 4. The congregations at Goschenhoppen and Indianfield desire to join our number, and to be served by us United Preachers, since with good conscience, they neither could nor would keep Andrea any longer. Pastor Muhlenberg promises to visit them as soon as possible, and the other preachers also obligate themselves to care for them. 6. In reply to the urgent request of the congregation in Mackunshy, THIRD CONVENTION, 1750. 31 to have an ordained preacher, it was informed that provision would be made ; at this time it is impossible to supply it with a regular pastor. Yet, in accordance with opportunity and ability, Mr. Schrenck is to visit the place now and then and preach. This congregation was then also received into our fellowsbip. 6. The deacons of the congregation at Birkeusee were again called up and further answer made them, that it was not possible to have them served by Mr. Schrenck. They were therefore united with Old Goschen- hoppen and Indianfield, so that these three may form one congregation. 7. The congregation at Cohenzy in Jersey, 36 miles from Philadel- phia, asked for aid. Their schoolmaster is to be examined in the after- noon and be given a certificate. 8. The humble petition of the Church Council of the congregation of Philadelphia, to keep Pastor Brunnholtz for themselves alone, and free him from the Germantown congregation, was read by Pastor Miihlen- berg, and the information given them that, without the knowledge and permission of our Fathers in Europe, we were not authorized to make any changes; that we had written to the Superiors in Europe in Novem- ber already, of the previous year ; they must have patience until the answer is received. With this they were satisfied. 9. The schools, as far as possible, are flourishing in all the congrega- tions, Goschenhoppen and the other small congregations excepted. At York, Schoolmaster Maul, on account of his age, desires to be relieved from further service ; but he and the congregation received from us ministers a certificate authorizing him to continue. 10. A question was propounded by a certain man in Philadelphia as to whether he may not marry again, as he has separated from his adulterous wife, has a certificate of divorce from her, and has sent her to Holland. The answer was : In accordance with the laws of this land the question does not belong to the Synod ; we must not encroach upon the government in this matter. It could only be decided by the government, where he should have sought for an ausAver before she went from him to Holland. 11. Concerning Church discipline in the case of persons guilty oi fornication and adultery, resolved that such persons shall, after evi- dence of penitence, be publicly absolved {ahgelesen werden) on Sunday from the pulpit, but no names shall be mentioned. 12. A "Guardian," for the newly arrived orphans, whose passage has been paid, but whose parents were lost at sea, shall be appointed at Philadelphia, who shall see to it that such orphans do not lose their possessions at the hands of deceivers and unjust persons. To this duty John Eberle, of Philadelphia, was named, who, in the past year, 32 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. had been used to this end by Pastor Brunnholtz, and through whose activity much mischief had been prevented. Compensation for his trouble shall be paid by the United Congregations. Some other points having been considered, and the meeting having lasted almost four hours, it was finally resolved at about three o'clock : that 13. Next year the Synod shall be held in Philadelphia, and on the following day the consecration of the church at Germantown, in the month of May, before the heat becomes great. Mr. Handschuh closed with a prayer, and all present sang a hymn. As a memorial of this and upon order, this brief Protocoll has been signed in the name of all the preachers and elders, by Peter Brunnholtz. FOURTH CONVENTION. 1751. [May 12th, 13th.] [Pastor Muhlenbeeg's Kepobt. Hallesche Nachrichten, p. 436 o. e.; n. e., II.: 10.] I had agreed with Pastor Brunnholtz that we would postpone our meeting and conference, until 1 returned from New York. But several elders of our congregations insisted that it be held before I went away, and as it had been appointed at the preceding meeting, that is, in the month of May. Consequently we were required to make preparations for it. The twelfth and thirteenth of May were appointed, and notice sent to all the United Congregations and their pastors. In the mean- while I made preparations for the journey, and, with a heavy heart, said farewell in New Hanover on April 28, and in Providence on May 6, before large assemblies. Starting from Providence with Mr. Kurtz on May 8, I arrived in Philadelphia on the 9th. May 10. The Swedish Provost [Acrelius] visited us, with whom I held a conversation about Pennsylvania Church affairs. He excused himself and expressed his sorrow that he could not attend our conven- tion on the following Sunday and Monday, as he had been informed of it too late, and had unavoidable business in his congregations, but his colleague, the Swedish preacher of Philadelphia, Mr, Berlin, would meet with us. May 11. We were much disturbed welcoming the delegates of all the United Congregations and questioning them about the condition of their congregations. May 12. There were present, of ministers, besides the Swedish pastor, Mr. Berlin, Messrs. Brunnholtz, Handschuh, Hartwig, Kurtz, Wey- gand, Schrenck, and I. Mr. Schaum could not attend on account of illness. Mr. Hartwig consecrated the new organ, and I preached in the morning, Mr. Weygand in the afternoon, and Mr. Kurtz in the evening. Everything was conducted in an orderly and edifying manner, and no accident or injury happened, though a great crowd of people was in the church. 3 33 34 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. II. [Pastor Handscituh's Diary. H. N., o. e., 534 ; II. : 269.] May 13. Mr. Hartwig preached the synodical sermon and Pastor Brunnholtz opened the meeting. One of my most bitter opponents from Lancaster, who always secretly excited his followers against me, was also present, though without having been sent by the congregation. When Lancaster came, in the regular order, he was called forward and earnestly asked by Pastor Muhlenberg- whether he had been sent as a delegate, and what he and the whole congregation had discovered against my teaching, life, and conduct in office. Whereupon, full of shame, as it seemed, he answered, that neither he nor any one in the congregation could show the slightest thing against my teaching and life. Every- thing else in the meeting also passed off quietly and orderly, and what was not completed was postponed until afternoon. We dined in the outskirts of the city, in the house of one of the Church Council, and then the rest was adjusted between the parties. III. [HAXiiESCHE Nachkichtex, n. e. I., pp. 688-9.] Transactions and resolutions of the United Preachers and the delegates of their united congregations in their Synodical Convention, I\Iay 13, 1751, at Philadelphia : 1. Rev. Handschuh was elected President or Superintendent for this year. 2. It was considered well l:)y all, that when complaints are to be made concerning the doctrine or life of a pastor he be conferred with before the matter be brought before the convention, in order that small matters may be settled quietly, and the precious time of the meeting be spent on more important and edifying matters. 3. Rev. Muhlenberg promised, in answer to the many requests of the delegates, to return as soon as possible, but in the, nieantitne hi^ congre- gations are to be cared for by Rev. Messrs. Brutmholtz, Handschuh, and the other United Preachers. 4. A correct "Church Order" was considered of the highest neces- sity, by means of which the pure evangelical doctrine and a well-ordered church discipline could be transmitted to our posterity. This is to be prepared bv the United Preachers and laid before all the congregations for approval. 5. In the future, Holy Communion shall be held before the 10th of FOUKTH CONVENTION, 1751. 35 April and the 10th of September, on account of naturalization, yet, if possible, always on Sunday. 6. Old Goschenhoppen and Indianfield have called the Catechist, Mr. Rauss, as their regular teacher, and this shall be granted them as soon as possible, if he will accept their call. 7. The congregations at The Forks have asked for the ordination of their preacher, the Catechist, Mr. Schrenck. Action postponed till our next meeting. 8. A small congregation on the Chamoni (Neshaminy), having asked for our help and for union with us, all possible help was promised. 9. The Makunschy poeple, who, at their request, were received by us last year, have left us again, and burdened themselves with a godless teacher of whom they would now like to be rid. 10. Lancaster appealed to us as to whether, with clear conscience, we would desert them for the sake of a few, since no one in the Avhole congregation had any complaint to make against Rev. Handscliuh g teaching and life. 11. The next Synod of the United Congregations shall, God willing, be held in Germantown, where Rev. Handschuh will be stationed. JoH. Friedr. Handschuh. IV. [Letter of Pastor Mithlenberg to Rev. Ziegenhagen in London, and Dr. Francke in Halle, Feb. 18, 1752. H. N., o. e. 511-2 (cf. H. N., o. e. 625).] After a general consultation of our United Ministerium, Rev. Schultz has been appointed assistant in the congregations of New Hanover and Providence on trial, and Mr. Heintzelmann has been stationed at Philadelphia as assistant at the church and the school until further arrangements. [Schultz and Heintzelmann arrived Dec. 1, 1751. The above-men- tioned conference was held Dec. 17, 1751, at Philadelphia, Pastors H M. Miihlenberg, Brunnholtz and Handschuh being present, and Jan. 15, 1752 at Providence, when Schultz and Heintzelmann were also present (H. N., new ed. p. 263).] FIFTH CONVENTION. 1752. SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. (October 2, in Germantown.) I. [Pastor Handschuh's Diary, 1752. II. N., 568 ff. n. e. II.: 90.] Sept. 28. As on the approaching Sunday the church at this place, which has been almost entirely rebuilt, is to be consecrated, and after that, our yearly conference is to be held, there arrived to-day, towards evening, first Mr. Rauss, and not long afterwards, Mr. Schulze, with whom I conferred preliminarily concerning their circumstances and those of their congregations. Sept. 29, early. Pastor Muhlenberg and Mr. Kurtz arrived. We immediately conferred with one another, and read Mr. Muhlenberg's excellent hymn written for the consecration of our church. Towards noon Pastor Brunnholtz also arrived, with whom Mr. Kurtz and I went to the printer Sauer to have the hymn printed Towards evening Mr. Heintzelmann, vdih another dear friend, arrived. Sept. 30, early, Mr. Weygand also arrived. Oct. 1, early, a conference was held with the elders and deacons of Germantown, about various matters, especially concerning the mainte- nance of external good order. In the meanwhile the Swedish Provost Acrelius also arrived, and soon thereafter Mr. Schaura. The negro who had previously been instructed by me was also brought in and various things talked over with him. When about ten o'clock, all the preachers except Mr. Schrenck were come together, and all the delegated elders and deacons had assembled before my dwelling, we went to the church in proces.sion. The Germantown elders and deacons preceded, then we preachers followed, of whom the younger men carried the sacred vessels. Then came the visiting delegates, and lastly all the remaining people of all classes, who had come in great numbers in spite of the rain of yesterday and all last night, the stormy weather and wretched roads. After everything had become quiet and orderly in the church, the service was opened, 1, with the hynin, " Komm, Heiliger Geisf" etc., 36 FIFTH CONVENTION, 1752. 37 sung in chorus. The first two stanzas the ministers sang alone, accom- panied on the harp by a schoolmaster ; the third, the whole congregation sang. During the singing Mr. Schrenck also arrived. 2. Mr. Brunn- holtz, standing before the altar, began the consecration with a beautiful, brief, and most timely address, after which, 3, the Swedish Provost Acrelius consecrated the church itself. After the consecration, 4, we preachers all knelt around the altar and offered prayer, each with refer- ence to some matter suggested by present circumstances, in the following order: Messrs. Muhlenberg, Kurtz, Schaum, Weygand, Heintzelmann, Schulze, Schrenck, Rauss, and I (Handschuh) was the last. 5. From the printed consecration hymn, the twenty-second and twenty-third stanzas were sung by us preachers accompanied by the harp. They read as follows : "Lass, Jehova, Dir gefallen Was Dir Herz uud Zunge singt. Hore, wie Deiu Volk mit Lallen Dir dies Haus zum Opfer briiigt, Und es widmet Deiner Ehre, Zum Gebrauch der reinen Lehre, Die durch Deines Geistes Kraft In uns neue Herzen schafll. " Pflanze, Herr, Dein Bild und Tugend Durch Dein ewig bleibend Wort In das Alterthura und Jugend, Und auf Kindes-kinder fort. Halte dazu treue Knechte, Die Dein Zeugniss, Bund und Rechte Kein bewahren in der Noth, Und getreu seyn bis in Tod." 6. Mr. Rauss, standing before the altar, read the fifteenth Psalm. 7. The whole congregation then sang the seventh to the ninth stanzas of the hymn : " Sey Lob und Ehr dem hochsten Gut," etc. 8. Mr. Miihlen- berg preached an excellent and inspiring consecration sermon on John 5 : 1-9, of which he made most pertinent applications, suited to the occasion. 9. After the sermon, the hymn : "Wachetauf! ruft uns die Stimme," etc., was sung in chorus. 10. The negro, thirty years of age, was led before the altar by Pastor Brunnholtz and Mr. Schleydorn, hia self-chosen sponsors, and examined and baptized by me. After the baptism, he gave to all the preachers present the right hand of faithful- ness and constancy ; at which opportunity, each of the preachers further wished him the necessary grace of God, which I had done before in a 88 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. prayer. 11. Then in continuance the hymn : " Lamm Gottes unschvlr dig" etc., was sung 12. We preachers all knelt, Mr. Miihleuberg offered the prayer of repentance and confession, and Mr. Bruuuholz epoke the words : " Lord God Father in heaven," etc. 13. I conse- crated and administered the sacrament of the Lord's Supper to my colleagues first, among whom also was the Swedish Provost, and then Pastor Muhlenberg also gave it to me. 14. Then " Wie bin ich dorh so herzlich froh" etc., was sung, and finally the benediction was pronounced, and the words : ** Unsern Aiisgang segne Gott," etc., were sung. Nothing as pleasant, edifying and inspiring as this service have I ever before experienced in this country ; perhaps not even in Germany. For we preachers had all one heart and one soul. I hope, therefore, that a good impression for the future also has been left in the hearts of all present. The entire service lasted from ten to two o'clock ; but this time seemed to us all as though it had been but a quarter of an hour. Toward four o'clock we again went to church, where Mr. Kurtz preached a thoroughly elaborated and edifying sermon on the epistle for the day, Ephes. 5 : 1-6. The evening we spent until late at night in singing, prayer and pleasant talks, as well as it could be done in this vale oi sorrow and tears ; and we put up with our little dwelling, and I heard no one complain of any discomfort. October 2. About eight o'clock, Mr. Berlin, the Swedish minister in Philadelphia arrived. About nine o'clock, we all went with the dele- gated elders and deacons to church to hold the Church Conference. First of all, the names of the twelve preachers who were present, and of the delegated elders and deacons of our congregations, sixty-eight in num- ber, were recorded ; then the first stanza of " Komm, Heiliger Geist, Herre Gott," was sung. Next the Swedish Provost, standing before the altar, delivered an appropriate Latin address to tiie whole United oMinis- terium, in which he expressed his joy in our behalf, and congratulated us, and Pastor Miihleuberg thanked him briefly in the same language. Then, after the second stanza of the hymn, " Komm, Heiliger Geid," etc., was sung and prayer offered by me. Mr. Muhlenberg, who did most of the talking, announced the arrival of two new co-laborers, Messrs. Heintzelmann and Schultz. The congregations were encouraged. II. [Hallesche Nachbichten. (n. e. I, p. 689.)] What was unanimously resolved in the meeting of the United Evan- gelical Preachers and the delegates of their congregations, in German- town, October 2, 1752: FIFTH CONVENTION, 1752. 39 1. Wherever necessary, schools shall be organized according to the excellent model of the Pliiladelphia congregation. 2. Instruction for children shall be held by the ministers here and there in the congregations, where necessity requires, at opportune times and under convenient circumstances. 3. Old Goschenhoppen, Indianfield and Toheka shall remain together as they have been to the present, and be served by Mr. Rauss, but New Goschenhoppen by Mr. Schultz. 4. The congregation in Frederickstown, Maryland, shall be visited by Rev. Mr. Schaum as often as possible until all are united and we can help them further. 6. In accordance with the petition of the Reading people, Rev. Miih- lenberg will preach the first sermon in their newly built church, on the Nineteenth Sunday after Trinity. 6. To satisfy the sureties ( Gehurgteii), the people in Raritan shall consider, whether out of brotherly love and according to equity, they may not, with justice to them, allow Rev. Weygand to preach there or hold service on the sixth and eighth Sundays. 7. The elders or deacons with the ministers, shall see that the people behave quietly and orderly in church before and after service, in order that all distraction and vexation be prevented. 8. The next Church Convention shall be held in Tulpehocken. 9. In order to lighten the toil and labor of the older ministers, and also by reason of the necessity of circumstances, Messrs. Schrenck and Rauss, heretofore our assistants and co-laborers, shall be publicly or- dained to the holy ministry in Providence, on the Twenty-second Sunday after Trinity, November 5. 10. All the United Preachers shall therefore arrange, if at all possible, to be with their oldest minister. Rev. Muhlenberg, on the Thursday pre- ceding November 2. 11. The congregations on the Schemini and in Cohenzi, shall be served as far as possible. 12. Rev. Handschuh, of Gerraantown, shall again continue for this year his ofl[ice as President, to look after the affairs of the United Con- gregations and their preachers. 13. But as he experienced many hindrances in the correct delivery of the letters to his colleagues and their congregations during the past year, to the injury of the congregations, it was resolved and promised, that the elders, deacons, or other any trustworthy men from the upper and more remote congregations, when they came down [to Philadel- phia], should ask at his place in Germantown, or at Mr. Brunnholtz'a 40 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. in Philadelphia, whether there be anything to be delivered to their teachers or congregations. John Frederick Handschuh, Lutheran Minister in Germantown. To be published to the Evangelical Lutheran congregations in Penn- sylvania and New Jersey. [Halle Doc. I, 485. Muhlenberg to Prelate AVeisensee, July 18, 1754.] In the Fall of 1752 our old honorable Mag. Schertlin, with his family, arrived here in safety. Since at that time our annual convention was held in the newly-built church at Germantown, the Swedish Provost AcreUus and thirteen of our United Preachers were present and conse- crated the church by the Word of God and prayer. ]\Ir. M. Schertlin would have desired to attend with us, but Mr. Wagner, Jacob Beyerle, Matthias Giinsle, Radelsfuhrer, Michael Eye and others had already brought wood and fire to the Germantown revolution, and were very busy in the taverns carrying out their plans. Mr. Schertlin was un- wittingly drawn into it by the force of circumstances (because the golden rule, et audiatur altera pars, has entirely gone out of fashion), and had promised to accept the office of pastor in Germantown, if Messrs. " Neuliinder " could expel the old Pastor Handschuh, who was suspected of Pietism. Rev. Mr. Schertlin heard only our opponents, and that in the taverns where many vapors rise, and he may well have formed the very worst ideas of our Ministerium, because he was a stranger. The church, in the meantime, was consecrated, and the United Preachers edified them- selves, as the disciples at the Transfiguration of Christ on tlie mountain, Matth. 17, because they were afterwards to accompany Him to Geth- semane. SIXTH CONVENTION. 1753. [Synod met at Tulpehocken, probably in October. (H. N., o. e. 676 f,, n.e. I, 264.)] At our last conference in Tulpehocken, the question was raised pri- vately among us preachers, whether we should not contribute our mites and together buy a suitable piece of land, where it is cheap, and prepare it for a " retreat " for ourselves and our widows in case of need. They all agreed, excejt Mr. Schultz, who answered that he had land for him- self, and wished to have nothing to do with common property. (There were no "mites; " Muhlenberg proposed to sell his property and buy a suitable place, but would do nothing without consulting the Fathers.) [Halle Doc, I., 540. Muhlenberg to Albinus, March 14, 1754.] SEVENTH CONVENTION. 1754. June 16, 17, 18, New Hanover. I. [Hallesche Nachrichten, o. e. 646 f. ; II. 183.] Our Synod is to be held on the first Sunday after Trinity and the 17th of June following. To it are also invited the four Swedish preachers united with us; also Mr. Gerock, in Lancaster, and at their request, Mr. Schertlin, and another, Hausihl by name, from Fredricks- town in Maryland, seventy to eighty miles beyond Yorktown, where Mr. Schaum lives. II. [Halle Doc. , I. , 500. Muhlenberg to Prelate Weiseusee, July 18, 1754.] In the preceding Fall we had invited him (Gerock) to our Synodical Meeting at Tulpehocken, but the letter was sent too late. This year 41 42 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. we invited him earlier to New Hanover, and received reply that he would attend ; but he stayed away, and sent a written excuse, promis- ing to visit us privately before long. III. ' [H. N., o. e., I., 662 sq. ; n. e. II. 192.] The Synodical sessions of the United Preachers of the Evangelical Lutheran congregations of German nationality in these American prov- inces, especially Pennsylvania, were held at New Hanover, in the county of Philadelphia, June 16-18, of this year. They were attended by the Swedish Provost, one Swedish preacher, and fourteen High German ministers, who deliberated, as in the presence of God, upon both the internal and external condition of the congregations. After they had reported, and mutually lamented the great hindrances each had encountered in his office, and had considered how what has hereto- fore retarded the progress of our Lord's Kingdom may be removed, and devised means to aid, by God's help, the congregations and the numerous ignorant young people within them, they gave one another their solemn pledge that they would earnestly ask their Heavenly Father for mercy and deliverance. They also promised each one, on his part and in his circumstances, to fulfill his office with all fidelity, according to the grace given him, and, by pure doctrine and a godly life, to destroy the Kingdom of Satan, and promote the progress of the Kingdom of God. It was also considered most necessary to lay before our most worthy Fathers and our friends in Europe the condition of our affiiirs, just as they are, and to this end to write to you. [The letter is written and signed by Heinrich Melchior Muhlenberg, Senior Minist. , Peter Brunnholtz, Johann Friedrich Handschuh,who, asthe three eldest membera, were appointed by the Ministerium, to give a brief history of the German immigration to Pennsylvania, and the condition of each of the congre- gations. It covers over 25 pp.] IV. [Hallesche Nachriciiten, (o. e. 661 f.)] On the past 17th and 16th of June we held our Annual Synodical Convention in New Hanover, where Provost Acreli us and Pastor Unan- der, of the Swedish Church and various German preachers and several elders were assembled. Among other necessary matters, it was resolved that on the coming 15th of September, a day of repentance, prayer and thanksgiving should be observed in all our United Evangelical Churches of Swedish, German and HoUandish nationality, and that SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1754. 43 I Sam. 7: 12 be taken for the introduction, and Joel 2: 12-17 as the text for the sermon. May the Lord seal it with His blessing, for His Name's sake ! V. [Halle Doc. I. 499. Muhlenberg to Prelate Weissensee, July 18, 1754]. I was living in hope that beneath the rough shell a good kernel might yet grow under the influence of suffering and through the work- ing of the good Spirit, and therefore, Avith the consent of my brethren, invited him (Mr. Schertlin) to our last Synodical meeting at New Hanover, where he attended June 16 and 17 A.c, and met the Swedish Provost Acrelius and thirteen United Preachers and delegates from Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Maryland, and was not a little astonished that everything was transacted in such a child-like, simple, edifying manner, and without the least imperiousness and ambitious strife. Cf. " Mann, Life of Miihleuberg," p. 311. VI. [Halle Doc. I. 483.] Georg Friedrich Hartmann, at our last Synodical meeting in New Hanover, without our request, handed in a writing and offered to establish the following, concerning M. Engelland, by an oath before the authorities, namely : After his disappearance from Wiirttemberg he had entered the French service in Strassburg, became Catholic, deserted and entered the Dutch service, and exchanged the Catholic for the Cal- vinistic religion, thence he went to the Spanish Netherlands, etc. CONVENTIONS EIGHT TO TWELVE. [These conventions exist in the reckoning of the Ministerium only upon paper, since during the years 1755-9 the meetings were aban- doned.] THIRTEENTH CONVENTION. 1760. October 19, 20. [Letter of Muhlenberg to Rev. Gerock, op Lancaster. MS. in Muh- lenberg's Diary, in Archives.] Rev. and Dear Brother : I take the liberty to announce that, God ■willing, on October 19th and 20th next, viz. : on the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity, the Holy Supper will be administered, and on tlie follow- ing Monday a fraternal Pastoral Conference will be held here in New Providence. The reasons it is unnecessary to state at length to any regularly-called minister who has at heart the welfare of our poor ecclesia jjZantojicZa in the American wilderness, for to him they are already sufficiently known ; much less is it necessary to present the motive, since letters received from you several years ago make the strongest appeal and contain the strongest arguments for such a frater- nal meeting, and I have not forgotten them. The manner of conduct- ing the Conference will be determined by those present according to the meekness and humility which they have each learned in following Christ, and the willingness they show to apply the gifts of the one Spirit given them to the good of the whole. All ambitious rivalry will be far dis- tant, and he who will humble himself as the child, Matt. 18 : 4, will be the greatest. The advantages are manifold, and are best known to those who have had experience, whether in Europe or here. And although in this country we are mostly, and often too much, dependent upon the vox populi, and are at a great distance from our European mother-church, and are contending against many sorrows and tempta- tions, and have many pia desideria, nevertheless I hope that we poor preachers may at least have such freedom in our congrogati(ms as to be able now and then to meet, to tell to one another our troubles, to partake of the Lord's Supper together, to decide on cases of conscience, to edify and comfort one another with accounts concerning the progress of the Kingdom of God, and to aflbrd mutual encouragement under difficult official burdens. The congregations can have less objection to this if 44 THIKTEENTH CONVENTION, 1760. 45 for this time we ask no delegates, but only hold a preacher's Conference, every well-disposed member, however, being at liberty to come and be a spectator and listener during our proceedings, and being also invited to partake of our humble hospitality. The ministers whom we expect to attend this meeting, some of whom have advised it, are the following : 1. Mr. de Wrangel, Swedish Provost at Wicaco, court preacher to His Majesty the King of Sweden, Doctor of Theology, a man who has the welfare of our Evangelical Lutheran Church at heart, and, what is best of all, who has, under oratio, ientaiio, et meditatio, learnt meekness and humility of heart in the school of Jesus Christ. 2. Mr. Borell, pastor of Wilmington. 3. Mag. and Pastor Gerock, of Lancaster. 4. Pastor Weygand, of New York, if God, health and weather permit. 5. Pastor Handschuh, of Philadelphia, if his circumstances permit. 6. Rev. Hausihl, of Reading, and the rest of us from the country. I have no doubt that you will do us the honor and give us the pleasure of your personal presence. You are willing, I know, if nothing important happens to hinder you. Satan and his allies have often tried, and will continue to try, to prevent such fraternal union, because united power is stronger, and is harmful to his kingdom. But if a Stronger One abide within us, there will be no danger. In case you definitely decide to come, my humble request is that you select a text for the chief ser- mon on the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity, suitable to admonish us preachers of our pastoral duties, etc., but so that the people may also gain a lesson. As I do not understand your present Church Constitu- tion, I have in my simplicity sent with this letter a few lines to your honorable Church Council ; but I leave it entirely to your mature judg- ment whether to hand the letter to them or to withhold it, as you find best, and remain * Your servant, H. Muhlenberg. New Providence, September 24, 1760. II. October 19, , Providence. [MS. IN Archives. Hallesche Nachkichten. o. e. 854 fl. Halle Doc. 121-67.] Saturday, October 18, 1760, there arrived at my house first, Mr. Paul Bryzelius, of whose conferences with Mr. de Wrangel with reference to his circumstances Ave had been informed ; 2. afterwards Mr. Wm. Kurtz, Junior, Cathechist from Tohickon ; 3. Mr. M. Gerock, Pastor of Lancas- ter, with Esq. Kuhn and Mr. John Schwab ; 4. Mr. Nicolaus Kurtz, Sr., 46 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Pastor of Tulpehocken ; 5. Mr. Hausihl, Pastor of Reading, etc., with an Eider, Mr. Peter Weiser ; 6. Mr. Albertus Weygand, Pastor of New York, with a Low German Deacon and Captain as companion ; 7. In the even- ing about 7 o'clock, we had the pleasure of also welcoming Provost Wrangel de Saga. ]\Iany matters pertaining to the Kingdom of the Cross and a spirit of harmony banished the weariness of traveling, and caused us to sit up until 3 o'clock at night. Sunday, October 19, early, the preachers and elders, among whom also appeared Mr. Caspar Stover, Preacher, as an uninvited guest, and Mr. Fr. , from Upper Saccum, an invited catechist, came together. After they had, with thanksgiving, partaken of nourishment for soul and body from Bogatzky's " Schatzk'ciatlein " and my patriarchal household, they all went to the church, and took their seats quietly without contention as to rank. The Provost opened the service in presence of a large assembly, with the 133d Psalm : " Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity ! " Then " Komm, Heiliger Geist, Herre Gotf," etc., was sung. After the hymn. Pastor Kurtz, Sen., read the Confessional Prayer, baptized children, and read the Epistle and Gospel for the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity. Then Mr. Gerock, Pastor of Lancaster, went into the pulpit, and preached a sermon well suited to the festival occasion, as thorough as it was edify- ing, and seasoned with salt, the text being the Gospel lesson, Matth. 22 : 1-14. "Of the right relation between ministers and congregations, (hearers), or shepherds and sheep. I. How true servants of God are to act toward the congregations entrusted to them, and II. How the con- gregations, toward their faithful pastors and teachers." This important subject was treated in a live (and charming) manner plane et plene, and ended with a fervent prayer. After the Litany the assembly was dismissed by the Provost. In the afternoon the Provost edified the assembly then present in the church with an English sermon on Acts 24 : 24, 25, and set forth : " The unhappy efforts made by obstinate sinners to defeat {abzukehreti) the gracious visitations of God, or the workings of the Spirit of God in their souls." This exceedingly important theme, which is closely allied to that of the Gospel lesson, was very thoroughly, clearly, convincingly and earn- estly inculcated, and especially emphasized in the application, so that it could be of profit not only to the ministers present, but also to the listen- ers, and especially to the Swedes who live dispersed about here, and had come from sixteen, seventeen or eighteen miles. After the end of the second service, the assembled preachers had a CoUerjium Bibliciim in jny house, which continued for two hours, about the essentials of the conversion of the heart, in which they edified one another, as well as THIRTEENTH CONVENTION, 1760. 47 they could, with the fruits of their self-examination and experience, according to the grace and gifts they had received. It was a pleasure and joy to the heart in the Holy Spirit. The evening was ended in an edifying way, in the use of spiritual hymns, and in conversations concerning the internal affairs of our con- gregations. So short and insufficient did it seem, that it was not until three or four hours after midnight, that we allowed our bodies the sleep that was their due. Oh, if poor souls, on this side of eternity, who have been barely awakened from the sleep of death, and have tasted scarcely a drop of the grace obtained by the Saviour's blood, while still, like pil- grims on a journey, in the vale of tears, and burdened with a mortal body the abode of numberless faults and weaknesses, that weary and discourage them, and while surrounded on all sides by legions of wily enemies from the kingdom of darkness, in a world which, gradu super- laiivo, lies in evil, and, as strangers, are subject to peculiar tempta- tions, — if such persons, under such circumstances, can find so much pleasure, even here, in harmonious conversation, what must it be in Heaven ! Oh, how well it is if preachers keep themselves undisturbed by polit- ical matters of party and strife, seek to please their Lord and Master Jesus Christ, and have at heart the true welfare of their Church and of the souls entrusted to them ; and therefore are willing to suffer shame ■with the people of God, rather than choose the treasures of Egypt ! Monday, Oct. 20, early, the matter concerning the above-mentioned Mr. Bryzelius was taken up, and in the following manner : (Here in the MS. follows a sketch of Bryzelius's life.) After several conversations he made the following declaration (which is to be published to all our congregations) with his own hand and signature before the assembly : Since I, the undersigned, have for sufficient and convincing reasons voluntarily left the erroneous teaching and government of the so-called Moravian Brethren, and afterwards at my earnest request and desire, the honorable Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium, of Swedish and High German nationality in Pennsylvania has received me into its fellowship and Church ; therefore, I herewith promise with sincere heart, before God the Searcher of hearts, in my ministry of the Synod hereafter to be rendered in these congregations, to teach notliing except what is well founded on the Canonical Books of the Old and New Testaments ; to conform in all my sermons, public and private instruction and in the adniinistration of the Holy Sacraments to our Symbolical Books, as also in true obedience to submit to the Church Order and directions of the above-mentioned most honorable Ministerium. In testimony and con- 48 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. firmation of this, I have attached the signature of my name with my own hand. Paul D. Brtzelius. New Providence, October 20, A. Chr. 17G0. Signed and delivered in presence of the Ministerium, of which the following members sign as witnesses : C. M. Wrangel, S. S. Th. D. et ]Missionis Luth. Suec prsepositus. Henry Muhlenberg, Sen. Min. JoHANX Siegfried Gerock, Pastor Lancastriensia, After Mr. Bryzelius had solemnly made this declaration, he was received into our fellowship by the members of the United Ministerium present with prayer and a hearty benediction, and he was exhorted to pray God and Christ for all needful grace and strength for liis future service, and thereby, in all faithfulness, to win as many souls, and even more, for the true Saviour of the world, as he had previously led to Antichrist and his plans. He promised, by God's grace and mercy in Christ, to do and suffer all that was possible, and requested that we should not put too much upon him, but help him to pray, in order that a way of escape may not be closed for the thousands of poor souls who groan under the yoke of the taskmaster, but that all things may be done gradually with fitting wisdom.' Hereupon Pastor Handschuh arrived with three elders from his congregation. On the day before, he had held services in Phihidelphia and then had a funeral, and although they had started in the afternoon they could not reach our house. Finally Deacon Schaum also arrived from New Hanover. We had also invited Mr. Schertlin, and had his promise that he would attend the Conference on October 20tli, if it were at all possible, as before he had received the invitation to the meeting, he had promised to administer Holy Communion to the scattered members some fifty to sixty miles away on the day preceding. About 9 o'clock A.M. the Conference was opened with prayer, the following being present: 1. Provost Wrangel. 2. Rev. Mr. Handschuh. 3. Rev. Mr. Gerock. 4. Rev. Mr. Wcygand. 5. Rev. Mr. Kurtz, Sr. 6. Rev. Mr. Hausihl. 7. Adjunct Mr Schaum. 8. Adjunct Mr. Kurtz, Jr. 9. Catechist Mr. Fr . 10. Mr Bryzelius. 11. Heinrich Miililen- berg. 12. Two captains from New York. 13. Three elders from Phila- 'Parta of this are suppressed in H. N., and are here restored from lialle MS. THIKTEENTH CONVENTION, 1760. 49 delpliia, 14. A justice of the peace and another elder from Lancaster, and Peter Weiser from Reading. Mr. Handschuh communicated the orders received from Mr. Ziegenhagen.) The following questions were brought before the meeting for consideration and decision, and were answered by votes : 1. Whether it be necessary and advantageous that an annual meeting of the regular ministers of one Church and Confession be held in America f ' Answer, 'per vota : It is necessary and advantageous that the laborers of one Master and one vineyard learn to know each other, even unite themselves more closely in love toward one purpose, discuss together whatever can benefit the ecclesia plantanda, and ex.tend the Christian religion ; that each, according to the grace granted, offer the gift re- ceived for the good of all ; that they encourage, exhort, comfort one another, decide cases of conscience, in love, simplicity, humility and meekness ; discover and correct otherwise unknown faults ; also remove dissatisfaction, strife and suspicion. A kingdom that is divided against itself cannot abide. The unity and harmony of spirit among ministers of one confession makes a great impression on the minds of those who listen to them (of friends and foes [H. N.]). Besides the preachers who wander about unordained and uncalled, a disgrace to our religion, are thereby checked to some extent ; the opportunity for slander by hostile parties is limited ; the intended temple otherwise becomes a Babel, and the door is only opened wider to Satan and his apostles. On such occasions, the young preachers might profit by the experience of the older men, etc., etc. (For these reasons the meeting is to be retained. [H. N,]) (Before a certain preacher present gave his vote, he was addressed [by Muhlenberg] as follows : Rev. Sir : A rumor is widely circulated, that you have sinned against the Sixth Commandment. Now, we, indeed, all know from personal experience, that even upright preachers are, in this entirely too free country, made objects of scandal and calumny by Satan and his followers. Although, therefore, our meeting has nothing to do with judicial matters that belong to the forum juridicum, and we cannot put heart and mind to the test, yet it becomes our duty to ask, in a brotherly way, whether the rumor have any foundation, or whether it can be proved to be false and untrue ? You will not be offended that we ask ; for if such or similar scandal that incapacitates for office could be proved to be founded on truth in reference to me or any member of this assembly, he must be excluded, etc. Response : ^ Whether it is necessary and advantageous that an annual general asserab'y of ministers and delegated elders be continued in the United German Congregations? [H. N.] 50 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. " I have many enemies, who do their best to bring injury upon me, but I have never desired to answer evil with evil. But as this rumor also circulated in my congregation, at the suggestion of the elders, I had to have the matter investigated by the authorities, and consequently have a written document to submit." Hereupon the accused minister drew forth a document, which was read and heard by all tliose present ; the contents were briefly the following : that a certain woman had appeared before one of His Majesty's justices, and on her solemn oath declared that the above rumor was altogether false, and that the preacher men- tioned had never asked anything sinful or dishonorable of her. The justice from Lancaster and several others testified that the judge who had investigated this matter, and attested it with his hand, was an intelligent and impartial man, and the investigation of a magistrate of this kind must be believed rather than hostile rumors, etc)^ Question 2. }Vhat are the impedimenU which make a fraternal meet- ing and union difficult, or even hinder if, entirely f Response : Satan is indeed the chief author who, as long as he can, casts impediments in our way and hinders us, to the advantage of his kingdom. One men- tioned especially that for some years rumors had been spread and kept up among the people in the country, that the preachers sent from Halle were Pietists, secret Zinzendorfians, teachers of error, no true Lutherans, but seducers and dangerous people, etc. Muhlenberg's Response : " We are regularly called, examined, or- dained, and sent ; for eighteen years we have publicly taught, so that intelligent hearers have had sufiicient opportunity to test our doctrine and life. But if anybody in this meeting yet retains any doubt as to our call, doctrine or conduct, I am willing to be the first to substantiate his claims with proofs and credentials, or will gladly be examined before such as have the authority." Response: "The rumor is current only among the ignorant people, and was brought from Lancaster to Phila- delphia, to wit, by Rev. Nyberg, who publicly said at the very first conference in tlie Swedish Church at Wicaco, that the Halle men were Pietists and no true Lutherans, etc. From which the origin and the consequence can be judged and therefore no further jiroof and exami- nation is necessary." Muhlenberg confirmed the statement that Nyberg had done this. For when the preachers sent from Halle took the field against the Zinzendorfians, the latter had no otlicr weapon, but that they made the people believe that the Halle men were Pietists and false Lutherans. When they opposed the wandering, so-called Lutheran preachers who came of their own accord and live scandalously, these knew no better way of defending themselves than that they fed the ^ Suppreased in II, N. Restored from MS. at Halle, THIRTEENTH CONVENTION, 1760. 51 poor, ignorant people with wicked lies, and told them that the Halle men were secret Zinzendorfians and would, in due time, bring the people under the yoke of Zinzendorfism. When we, therefore, preached to the people of change of heart, living faith and godliness, the peoi)le who loved sin and the world gladly made the objection that we were Pietists, Moravians, and such like, carried a secret poison, etc.^ Question 3. Where shall the meeting be held annually ? Response : " Change is necessary and useful. The German [H. N.] congregations all have an equal right, none is subordinate to another (or dependent on another [H. N.]). Such a meeting makes a good impression upon the congregation where it is held (and encourages it), especially are the young people encouraged, which is necessary and useful at all places (in all congregations). Next time, God willing, it shall (according to unanimous vote [H. N.]) be held in Lancaster, and, if possible, in May, but so that it do not fall in court time, and not on the 27th of the month (because on that day the Provost must be elsewhere [H. N ])." Question 4. What is the best method of conducting "■ Kmdcrlehre ? " Response : " The same catechism should be used in all the United Con- gregations. The schools in the towns should be diligently visited by the preacher. In the country provision should be made for private devo- tional exercises and catechisation of children and servants, in the houses, in presence of the parents. The truths should be taught them out of the Catechism, simply, intelligently, impressively, and adapted to their capacitj'', and be supported by proof texts from Holy Scripture. Above all, the youth should be objects of most diligent labor ; they ought to be spared from too much memorizing, and in memorizing a thought the object should be that it be well analyzed and made clear to their weak intellectual powers, and be so brought to them that it will fill not only the memory, but also the other powers of the soul with pleasure and with life. (Complaint was made that in the large and widely- scattered country congregations and filials little time, opportunity and abilityremained for this work,etc.) In visiting at the houses notice should be taken of what books there were in the family, as harmful ones may sometimes be met with. The Provost said that in his visits he had made a table in which he wrote the names of parents, children and servants, and noted their excellencies and their defects, so that in look- ing over it he had the condition of the whole congregation before his eyes (against which one of the others remarked that this was not ■ practicable in large congregations, though it was desirable ) Fur- ther, one might now and then give the children who were most diligent in learning a small gift, which would encourage them to greater dili- ^ Suppressed in H. N. Restored from MS. at Halle. 52 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. gence. The remark was casually made that the children in school should not be taught spelling and reading from the Testament or Bible, especially if they were scolded or puni.>-lied in h arning, because this occasioned an aversion and contempt towards the Holy Word of God, so that as they grow older they evidence a dread and repugnance towards it, as we notice iji our daily experience with old and young. Scliool- masters, catechists and teachers must take care that the Bible is presented to the children as the highest treasure and most precious gem, and so regarded and used that it tastes like sugar and honey to them, e. g., if one gave children more milk and bread than they could enjoy and digest they would spill it, tread it under foot or spit it out again. Every man has indeed a natural aversion towards divine and spiritual mat- ters, but this disgust is certainly increased if the children are indis- creetly overfed with solid food from the Word of God, etc. There are other convenient and useful books to be found in which the chiklren may learn to spell and read.' The Bible must of course be used dili- gently, but yet as the holiest of all, and so that, when it is opened before the children they will feel, according to their limited and realistic conceptions as though a box of sweetmeats and all kinds of delicacies had been opened for distribution. (An Elder who was present, and did not understand it rightly, thought that we wanted to banish the Catechism and God's Word from the schools, and it was explained to him more clearly.) May God the Lord move our Fathei*s in the European Mother-Church, with their larger experience and more mature judgment, to teach us briefly how and in what manner the Holy Word of God may obtain the reverence due it from old and young! Books and rules, teaching, in general and specifically, how God's Word ought to be read, regarded, used and applied, etc., are indeed not wanting in our evangelical church, but the general practice shows sufficiently that all the rules are not yet sufficient, but that the Holy Word of God, the ricliest treasure and most precious gem, is not only most wickedly buried in a napkin by the Babylonian woman, but even among learned Protestants is not regarded as highly as the Corptis Juris Bommmm is among jurists, and is treated by the people as the peddler's sack found by the sow. The Papists actually put us to shame, because the child ron of the world are wiser than the children of the light. They can gather the people far and wide with a bone and other relics, no matter where tiiey have been picked up, and can cause them to be honored ^nth great reverence as so-called " sacred " things, and to be kissed with trembling, etc. Wlien, with their trickery, they show a " monstrance " the people fall down and exhibit the greatest reverence. We Protest- ' Here followed Report in II. N. much condensed and altered THIRTEENTH CONVENTION, 1760. 53 ants have the most Holy Word of God in the original, and in our mother tongue, and regard not the heavenly gem, but make an apple of discord of it, etc. There certainly is some fault somewhere. I recall what an old Bohemian told me in the Oberlausitz : A hundred and some years ago several Bibles were, through the gracious Providence of God, brought into Bohemia among the secret Protestants. ' Several families kept their Bibles in secret. The grandfather of my infor- mant also had inherited one of them, and kept it concealed in a secret place in the cellar. At certain times he had all his children and children's children come together as though he had prepared a feast for them. They sat together till late at night, and, in order that the clergy might not suspect that they were holding Pietistic conventicles, pipes and tobacco were lying on the tables, and beer and brandy stood along, side, which, however, were but little touched, although they were the criteria of the ignorant orthodox people, and removed the suspicion of dangerous heresy or pietism. At midnight the grandfather, as the head of the family, went down and brought up the treasure — the Bible — in his bosom. The whole family sat about the tables and waited in great attention and a-Koxapadoxia to see and hear the sacred Book. The grandfather seated himself in his place, drew out the Bible, kissed it with great reverence, pressed it to his breast, and could not restrain the tears of joy which were mingled with the tears of the whole family. After the grandfather had shown due respect, it was handed to the members of the family, according to their ages, and caressed with equal reverence, even by the youngest. After this some one who could do so, read a passage or a pithy sentence once, twice or three times, so that all present ate and drank as it were the Word of life with great zeal and transformed it into spirit and life. When this had been quietly done they kissed the Bible farewell, put it again to its secure place and walked in the strength obtained from this food until they again found opportunity to make a feast, and also after the meal, showed the divine power and fruit of faith in a godly life and conversation,^ and propa- gated the Christian religion in such manner that, notwithstanding all the trickery and malice of Satan and his following directed against it, it has not quite been destroyed even to the present day. O ! that we might treat the Word of God as God's Word, use it as it deserves, and believe, teach and live in accordance with the same, while it is yet day, before the darkness comes upon us ! W^e ought also be supplied with small books in which divine work- ings of grace {Gnadenzilge ii. Wirkungen) on little children are rec- ^ (They found conlradictiones apparantcs, neither in the Old Testament nor in the New, but only the Word of Life [Halle Doc.]). 54 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. orded ; for good, edifying and easily understood examples most readily impress the tender hearts of children. I have before now seen one of this kind trausUited from English into German, but could not get it in this country. How useful such little tracts prepared cum grano salis, would be in our schools.' If nothing is accomplished with the children, the best opportunity is lost. Matth. 18: 10." Question 5. What is the best method of preaching f Response : The Provost begins service an hour earlier, goes through a pa.ssage of the New Testament, e. g. the Gospel according to St. Matthew, analytice, exegetice and applicative. The sermon is well thought out, composed and digested beforehand, and lasts about three-quarters of an hour. Afterwards, he asks his hearers what they have specially noted and remembered of it, points out to them the nervum probandi in the proof texts used, and shows how they must be applied in secunda persona. Another says that he has also done this in the country congregations, preached a half or three-quarters of an hour, and then gone over it with the congregation and made more direct applications. One should not affect erudition, but come to the level of the people, not strike at the air, or use low phrases, teach non multa, sed multum, — one fundamental truth, briefly explained, thoroughly aj)proved and immediately applied ; not dryly, but practically ; represent the Christian religion not as a burden, but as a pleasure — in the application avoid personalities — not allow the love of Jesus to be colored and dimmed by the root of self love, when hurt by some one— distinguish between per- son and thing — personal matters should be settled privately during pastoral visits, and not be brought into the pulpit. Elenchus must not therefore be neglected. — Rightly formulate the thesis, but do not forget the antithesis ; — for since our church members dwell among all kinds of parties and unfriendly sects, polemics must also be treated, yet without mentioning names, and as Doctor and Professsor Anthon did, so that the unholy f )unts of all heresy and sectism are exhibited, and we still remain humble and moderate. — As many parties dwell together, inter- marry and have relations of business and life one with another, a danger- ous indifferentism is et\sily occasioned ; therefore it is necessary at times to point out the differences, as otherwise the suspicion of indifference may also fall upon the ])reacher — The moral condition of the members ought to be diligently investigated, and be used to guide our homilotics — Al)ove all to sow with tears ! and have the edification of each indi- vidual at heart, and take care unto ourselves and unto the doctrine. Question (5. W^hat advantages are to be noticed in the Hnli/ Commnnir.n f Response: "The doctrine ofHolyCoranmnion must be diligently taught, ' Latter pariigrai'hs not iu II. N. THIRTEENTH CONVENTION, 1760. 55 correctly explained and well impregsed. Dr. Fresenius's small book for Confession and Communion is excellent. The doctrine is often ex- pounded too dryly, too legalistically, too gently, in too lofty or in too undignified a manner. When it is rightly understood and placed where our Most Gracious Saviour placed it, it is a most comforting part of the Order of Grace, a help in conversion, the closest application of atonement, an essential part of the New Covenant, a treasure above all treasures. The Swedish members formerly had excessively legalistic ideas, and some shrank fi'om it until their old age or upon their death beds ; but now that they have been better informed, they come weeping and praying and ask for it. The High Germans are mostly hyper- evangelical in this matter, and in using the Lord's Supper they pre- sume upon their justification before God and men without repentance and faith; this, however, is opposed by our testimony. The Lord's Supper is announced beforehand in all the United Congregations. In the towns, the members have sufficient opportunity to give in their names on week-days, and confer with their pastors privately con- cerning the condition of their souls, and to settle strife, etc., with the help of the Church Council, if it is necessary. But, in the country, where the people sometimes live ten to fifteen miles from the church, must cross streams of water, are poor and have no horses to ride, or are servants of harsh and ill-disposed parties, it is with difficulty that they can be gotten together on Saturday for announcement and preparation. Such far distant and poor people or servants should come on Sunday morning early, announce themselves, confess, and afterwards receive the Communion with the rest. It was suggested that such members should rather be spoken to one or more Sundays before, instructed and pre- pared, so that the pastor might at least have a better opj)ortunity to learn the condition of their souls." Question 7. Whether preachers should be present at, or absent them- selves from marriage feasts f Response : " Several well-meaning parents and young people have earn- estly requested that their ministers should be with them at the marriage feast; and they have been there and spent the day in edifying dis- course and the singing of spiritual hymns. Other parents have made the same request, and it has been granted them. As long as the preacher was present, everything was quiet and respectable. But as soon as he had turned his back, the people carried on their calf-worship, with dancing and other disorders, and then it was reported around the country, that the preacher too was at the wedding. The unanimous advice was, that the preachers should rather stay away enlirely, since at such times there was little good to be done, as the people occupied them- 66 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. selves more with material and visible matters than with spiritual. How. ever, each is free to attend in special cases, where it may be necessary and advantageous, although more could be accomplished in a house of mourning. In cases where the preacher is required to perform tlie cere- mony in the house, he can without harm, take something as he needs it, and then withdraw." ^ Question 8. Should not a President of the MlnisteHum he elected annually, and be charged with the duty of visiting all the United Congre- gations, and attending the Swedish synodical meetings as delegate? Response : " Yes," unanimously.' After this, Pastor Handschuh and several elders, who hud on the evening before lodged in the same house with Rev. Caspar Stover and had talked with him, stated that Mr. Stover was offended because we had not invited him, and when he had joined us yesterday we had treated him so coldly, although he sought nothing else than Christian fraternal fellowship in his old age, and would like to have the congre- gations which he yet served prosper after his death. Answer was made that in 1753 he had been at the synodical meeting in Tulpehocken, and afterwards had greatly abused the privilege, and even in the pre- ceding year had treated several members of the Ministerium unfairly ; and as to the cold treatment, we did not know how to do better than we had done, since he was at our two-hour private conference last evening and heard the most valuable practical truths, and also joined in the conversation himself. If, in the meantime, he would conduct himself in a Christian manner, and we could in any degree see that it would be an advantage to all, and especially to him, he might be invited next time, God willing. Pastor Handschuh then read a letter from a young preacher, Schwerdtfeger by name, in which he complained bitterly because we had not invited him. He has married the daughter of a well-meaning elder who was present from the Lancaster congregation ; he came into this country without a call, and without authority received ordination from several like himself, at which the Provost was very nmch sur- prised and grieved. Thus was the Conference for this time ended in love, peace and unity, and closed with prayer and thanksgiving. In the afternoon, at about three o'clock, the Ministerium began to examine the younger Mr. Wil- liam Kurtz, since Pastor Kurtz, Sr., desired to have him as assistant in his filials, and requested that he be therefore publicly examined, ami, if it were found advisable, ordained. After a prayer, he was ^ Miicli condensed in 11. N. * Suppressed in II. N. THIKTEENTH CONVENTION, 1760. 57 required to open the Greek Testament to the third chapter of I Cor- inthians and explain it in Latin, which was done satisfactorily without hesitation. Afterwards the 117th Psalm was given to him in Hebrew, and he was asked to translate it into Latin, ex tempore, according to the genuine literal sense, which again was done readily and skilfully. Further, he was also required to treat the second Psalm similarly. The Provost was pleased, and said that he had not suspected anything like this in Pennsylvania, and began to examine him in theology in Latin. Mr. M. Gerock followed the Provost, and examined the candi- date in difficult theological questions. Further, Pastor Handschuh among other questions, asked him, what are the criteria or characteres of a true servant of Jesus Christ? Pastor Hausihl tested him with various questions in Polemics. Pastor Weygand argued with him on several articles in Theology. After the examination he was required to withdraw, in order that the Ministerium might declare their 02)inion, which was as follows: 1. Provost: " Very good." 2. Mr. Weygand: " Very good " 3. Mr. Handschuh : " Good." 4. Mr. Gerock : " He has sufficient foundation ; he must be diligent in practice and build upon it." 5. Mr. Hausihl : Same as Mr. Gerock. 6. Mr. Schaum : " Good.'' 7. Mr. Bryzelius: "Very good." Hereupon Latin questions were handed him which he was to answer in writing. The ordination is postponed to another time, when it shall be held publicly. In the evening the election of a President was held per plurima vota, which were as follows : No. 1. " Prseses esto, Eev. Mr. Muhlenberg." No. 2. " Pastor Muhl- enberg." No. 3. "Senior Myhlenberg." No. 4. " S. T., Mr. Miihlen- berg, Sr." No. 5. "Senior Muhlenberg: Votum Weygand." No. 6. " H. Muhlenberg." No. 7. " Senior Muhlenberg — Kurtz." No. 8. " Dn Sen.* Muhlenberg : Si omnes consentiunt, ego non dissentio." No. 9. " P. Muhlenberg." After the business was finished, the ministers and elders present were cheered by the singing and playing of hymns. Some who were tired went to their rest, and the others, the Provost, Mr. M. Gerock, Pastor Wey- gand, Mr. Kurtz, Sr., and Muhlenberg, conferred on times past and future, until 3 o'clock in the morning. On Tuesday, Oct. 21, the ministers and friends present after break- fast, ended with prayer, sang, in closing, the last stanza of the hymn : " Nun freut eucli lieben Christen gmein" etc., " Wcls ich gethan hah, unci gelehrt, das solt dii thun und lehren," etc, said farewell, and started on their journeys to their respective homes. Psalm 133. FOURTEENTH CONVENTION. 1761. . TRINITY SU:N"DAY, (May 17-18, Trinity Church, Lancaster.) I. [Hallesche Nachrichten, o. e. 865; n. e. II. 374. Muhlenberg Diary, MS., May, 1761.] In the month of May, 1761, our annual preachers' Convention of the United Swedish and German Ministerium was held in Lancaster, upon occasion of the laying of the corner-stone of a new Lutheran church at that place. (Cf. also H. N. o. e. 948 ; n. e. II. 427 : Ordination in this meeting of Kurtz, Jr.; Mann, Life and Times of 3Iuldenberg, 385: attack of Kauss on Miililenberg v. Muhlenberg's Defence, MS.: ''Mr. Rauss at the meeting in Lancaster, May 19 A.c, expressly promised before the members of the Rev. Ministerium of Swedish and German nationality, that he would prove in writing to the chosen arbitrators that Miihlenberg is a. heterodox in the Evangelical Lutheran doctrine, and b. unchris- tian in life and conversation. The Swedish pastors. Dr. Wrangel and Borell, were appointed arbitrators." Lliihlenberg's defence, or rather his review of Rauss' brief of charges, is in Archives of the Ministerium, both in his own handwriting, and in documents transcribed from those at Halle. It would fill, if here printed, about seventy-five pp. of this volume. Reference to this meeting is found also in Lan- caster Memorial Voliune, pp. 19, 20.) 68 FIFTEENTH CONVENTION. 1763. THIRD SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. (June 27-29, Pluladelpliia) [Rev. Muhlenberg's Diaey, 1762. H. N. 916 ff. and MS.] Friday, June 25, . . . Towai'd evening [after 4 o'clock], I rode out to Wicaco with Messrs. Gerock and Schvvertfeger to the Swedish Pro- vost. We asked Mr. Schwertfeger whether he was wilHng to undergo an examination, as we could not otherwise receive him into ministerial fellowship. He answered : " Yes." Thereupon Provost Wrangel and Pastor Gerock were requested to examine him on the morrow, and to give their opinion of it in the public meeting. In the evening Pastor Weygand held a service, and edified those present, his text being II Cor. 4:6,7. The appointed Conference of preachers caused joy among the members of the congregation, who said : Such a thing had not happened for years [" since Mr. Handschuh stood alone and held aloof from the Ministerium." . . . .] Saturday, about eleven o'clock, I had a private conference with Mr. Weygand concerning New York congregational affairs. In the iifternoon, about four o'clock, I had asked for a conference in the school-house, on account of the matters that were to come up in the Synod, at which conference there were present : Dr. Wrangel, Rev. Gerock, Rev. Weygand, Rev. Bryzelius, Rev. Handschuh, and I. It was late when we separated. Sunday, June 27, about nine o'clock, the following preachers grad- ually assembled: 1. The Swedish Provost Wrangel. 2. Mr. Borell, Swedish preacher from Wilmington. 3. Mr. Wicksel, Swedish minister from Racoon, in Jersey, 4. Rev. Gerock from Lancaster. 5. Rev. Hausihl from Reading. 6. Rev. Bryzelius from Raritan. 7. Rev. Weygand from New York. 8. Rev. Schwertfeger from Conestoga. 9. Pastor Handschuh, and 10, I (Muhlenberg). As delegates there were present Esquire Coultas, a real patriot of our church from Kingcess ; 59 60 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Esquire Ivulin from Lancaster; Mr. Rade from Lebanon; two from Tulpehocken ; the others, from Reading (Samuel Weiser), New Han- over (one, Mr. Jurger), New York (two, Messrs. Grim and Ebert), and Jersey (two, Jacob Oeff and John Appleman),' and Mr. Stiegel from the Elizabeth Iron Furnace. The deacons of the Philadelphia congregation preceded, and all the rest followed to the church in pro- cession [Muhlenberg with the Provost, Gerock with Borell, Hausihl with Wicksel, Handschuh with Weygand, and then the elders and dele- gates with Captain Coultas.] In the church, which was much too small, 1. Dr. Wrangel opened the services with reading the 146th Psalm. 2. Muhlenberg read the confession and collects, etc.^ 3. Mr. Handschuh baptized children. 4. As the chief hymn we sang, " Zcuch viich, zeuch mich init den Armen," etc. 5. Rev. Gerock preached on the Gospel for the Third Sun- day after Trinity, and set forth "The love of Jesus Justifj-iug Itself in recei\'ing Publicans and Sinners/ in a very edifying manner. 6. Rev. Borell closed with prayer and the benediction. After this the preachers went to Mr. Handschuh's parsonage, where a light meal liad been j)re- pared at the congregation's expense. About three o'clock in the afternoon the services in the church again began. Mr. Bryzelius rode to Kingcess with Esq. Coultas, to preach there in Swedish. The Swedish Provost preached the first German sermon in our St. Michael's Church in the presence of a very large audience, on John 20 : 19 -2L On " The First Festive Appearance of the Risen Saviour to Ten of His Disciples." It was an excellent, exe- getically instructive and edifying discourse, such as I had not yet heard in this part of the world. After the sermon we sang, " Mem Heiland nimmt die Sunder an," etc., and Pastor Wicksel closed with the bene- diction. Afterwards the preachers went to the school house and had edifying conversations with one another. In the evening, about seven o'clock, we went to clmrch for service. Mr. Weigand delivered a discourse on Rom. 7: 12, "Of the Nature and Use of the Law," etc. (It seemed to some that Mr. Weygand intended to give a hint, as though in tlie two preceding sermons the friend of sinners and publi- cans, Jesus, had been pictured too evangelically, etc.) After this hour we again went to the school house, where Pastor Kurtz and his younger brother, as also Pastor Schaum, joined us At my request, Pastor Kurtz had preached impressively at Barren Hill in the morning, and at ' Names In parenthesis supplied from MS. ' MS. " And read the Epistle." FIFTEENTH CONVENTION, 1762. 81 Germantown in the Reformed Church in the afternoon, and Mr. Kurtz, Jr., had held services ' at Upper Dublin. ]Monday, June 28, early, delegates from Indianfield arrived, bringing a preacher with them, whom they wished to have examined by the Ministerium. Further delegates from Germantown, Barren Hill and Upper Dublin presented themselves. II. [Report op the Preachers' Conference in June, 1762, Prepared by Pastor Handschuh. H. N. 954. (Sup. II. Doc. II. 1245), MS. Muhlenberg's Diary in Archives.] Reverend Fathers in Christ : We shall hereby most obediently render to you a short account of the Church Confererice called together by Rev. Muhlenberg and held in St. Michael's Church, Philadelphia, at the end of June, 1762. The preachers who arrived one after another and were present at it were the following: 1. Provost Dr. Wrangel ; 2. Mr. Borell; 3. Mr. Bryzelius ; and 4. Mr. Wicksel, who are the four Swedish colleagues ; further, 5. Mr. Muhlenberg ; 6. I. Handschuh ; 7. Mr. Kurtz, Sr. ; 8. Mr. M. Ge- rock, 9. Mr. Schaum ; lO. Mr. Weygand ; 11. Mr. Hausihl; 12. Mr. Kurtz, Jr.; 13. Mr. Schwertfeger ; and 14. Mr. Roth. There were two, three and four delegated elders and deacons from each of the outside congre- gations, and from some even more ; no small number altogether. On the Third Sunday after Trinity all the preachers, together with all the delegated elders and deacons, assembled in the large room of our school- house, a good half hour before the last forenoon bell-ringing, and from there went to the church by twos. Pastor Muhlenberg read the Public Confession and what belongs to it, Pastor Handschuh baptized the chil- dren, Mr. M. Gerock preached and one of the Swedish preachers offei'ed the prayer and pronounced the benediction standing before the altar. After service was ended the preachers went by twos to the parsonage [where they and their wives had dinner, and received every attention possible from Handschuh and various elders of this })lace.] From the parsonage the preachers again went to the church by twos as the bells were ringing for afternoon service. After the hymn the preacher read the 133d Psalm, Provost Wrangel preached, and the third Swedish preacher offered the prayer and pronounced the benediction from before the altar. In the evening, about seven o'clock, service was held, at which Mr Weygand preached. After its conclusion every preacher retired to his lodging-place. * MS., "and communion." 62 DOCUMENTARY HISTOP.Y. On the Monday following, June 28, at nine o'clock, the public wor- ship in the church again began, to which the preachers, elders and dea- cons of the various United Congregations had gone by twos as on the preceding Sunday. One of the preachers stood before the altar and read a Bible passage, Mr. Kurtz, St., preached the Synodical sermon and one of the Swedish brethren standing before the altar offered the prayer and pronounced the benediction. After the close of the service the preachers, and the elders, deacons and other delegates of the vari- ous United Congregations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York who were present remained in the church, and the public Conference, over which Pastor Muhlenberg presided, was opened by him with a prayer. [The President appointed Pastor Handschuh to act as Secre- tary, and opened the Synod Avith the Litany, after which the second verse of "Komm Heiliger Geist, Hcrre Gott," was sung. H. N. o. e. 918.] Then the following matters were taken up, one after the other : I. The testimonial of Mr. John William Samuel Schwertfeger from his native country was openly read, also the examination certificate of his eligibility for the office of preacher, which Dr. Wrangel and ]\Ir. M. Gerock had given him in writing. Thereupon his reception into our fellowship was approved by all the preachers present. Rev. jMiihl- enberg then read to him very distinctly the most important Scripture passages " in regard to the ministry, and then he received from all and each of the preachers a hearty wish of blessing. Finally j\Ir. Schwert- feger expressed his most humble thanks to the v/hole Ministerium for his reception. At the close of this first transaction : " Was ieh gethan hah und gelehrt," etc., was sung. II. A necessar}'' inquiry was made about the schools in each of the United Congregations, upon which the following reports were made : 1. New Providence has several small schools, but the main school at the church is vacant. 2. New Hanover still has one school, and has been somewhat assisted by the society in London, but this assistance has lately been Avithdrawn again. 3. The condition of our schools at Philadelphia is sufficiently well known, and the public examination on the morrow shall testify of it. 4. In the Swedish congregations the Swedish schools have, alas ! been neglected for several generations. But Dr. Wrangel has started an English school in one of his congregations in wliich the Lutheran catechism is taught in an English translation. 5. In the Raritan congregation the German school is as yet wanting. 6. In New York the German school is .badly managed by reason of a worthless schoolmaster. 7. In Mr. Schaum's congregations, at Oley, a » On I Thess. 5 : 12. »M.S. from Timotliy Titus, etc. FIFTEENTH CONVENTION, 1762. 63 wortbless schoolmaster had to be discharged, hence the school has fallen into decay at present. 8. In Vincent Township there is a good school : they have an excellent schoolmaster and nearly sixty scholars. 9. In Reading there is a well-managed school of eighty children or more. 10. Richmond also has a fair school. 11. In Rev. Kurtz, Sr.'s, congrega- tions there are several schools ; in Tulpehocken one of forty, and in Heidelberg one of thirty children. 12, In Lebanon there are no schools yet on account of the poverty of the people. 13. In Easton there is no permanent school because the people are too scattered. 14, At the Nordkiel Mr. Kurtz, Jr., keeps school himself in winter, and at first had about thirty children, but afterward the number decreased on account of the high water. 15. In Lancaster the German school has from fifty to sixty children in summer, but from eighty to ninety in winter. It is supported by the congregation itself, without outside assistance. Its schoolmaster, Jacob Loser, is a ready and gifted man, who would be well capable of still more important service. Yet it is to be regretted that the lack of room and of a proper code of rules interferes with its efiiciency. III. The increase of the congregations since the synod of the pre- ceding year, through Holy Baptism : 1. In Rev. Muhlenberg's congre- gations at Providence and New Hanover, one hundred and twenty children and seven or eight grown persons. 2. In Philadelphia, one hundred and thirty or forty, among whom were several grown people. 3. In Dr. AVrangel's congregations, one hundred and fifty children, and of adults, four negroes and six white persons, one of whom had been a Quaker ; beside these, there is one more under instruction. In Malatte an Englishman was instructed and baptized. 4. In Lancaster, two hundz'ed and fifty. In Biber Creek, some twenty to thirty children and some six adults. 5. In Wilmington and the congregation belong- ing to it, ninety children and six or seven adults. 6. In Mr. Bryzelius' congregations, in the Province of New Jersey, some eight adults were instructed and baptized, two others are yet under instruction ; and of baptized children there are at least over a hundred. 7. In New York, Mr. Weygand has one child of seven years under instruction , the number of those baptized he will send in later, as he does not know it exactly, 8. In Reading and the congregations belonging to that charge, two hundred and fifty children ; besides these, one adult was baptized on last Whitsunday, and another is still under instruction. 9. Mr. Kurtz, Jr., has baptized one person whose parents are Dunkers. IV. The number of the confirmed who communed for the first time : In Barren Hill, twenty souls; in Cohenzy, eleven; in Philadelphia, sixty -five ; in Dr. Wrangel's congregations, eighteen ; among them one 64 DOCUMENTAllY HISTORY. who had been a Roman Catholic ; in Racoon, six Swedes and four Germans ; in Lancaster, forty, from fourteen to twenty years of age ; among them, also, one Roman Catholic; in Wilmington, fourteen; in New Germantown, in Jersey, fifteen; in Mr. Schaum's congregations, fourteen; among them one married woman; in Mr. Hausihl's congre- gations, forty-four ; among whom were one married man and seven married women. As to New York, ISIr. Weygand will send the rejoort later. Mr. Kurtz, Sr., instructed and confirmed twenty-two persons there, among whom was one Roman Catholic; in Tulpehocken, thirty-six souls ; in Heidelberg, twenty-one ; on the Norcjtiel, twenty- one are to be confirmed next Sunday ; in Mr. Schwertfeger's congrega- tions, thirty-nine; among them one married man. V. As to the reception of new congregations, there Avere the following : 1. Lebanon, whose petition to the United Preachers was read from a letter by Rev. Kurtz, Sr. 2. Greenwich, in Berks county, whose letter asking for a pastor from our IMinisteriura, was read. Sj^ecial request was made for Mr. Schaum. 3. In New York, the separated Meadow congregation also applied to this Ministerium, which matter was after- wards decided in a pi'ivate conference. 4. Barren Hill, Upper Dublin, Cohenzy, Saccum, New Hanover, and New ProAndence, shall be further provided for. 5. The consideration of Germantown was postponed until the private conference. Adjourned with prayer and a hymn. Then all present went, two by two, from the church to the school- house, and there dined. The young English preacher of the High Church, Mr. Duchee, and several members of his congregation, were present by invitation. In the private conference of the preachers, held in the afternoon, the following matters came up : 1. In reference to Germantown, the many points of complaint against their pastor, Mr. Rapp, were read. The delegates from that place were listened to, one after the other, and upon their urgent request we promised to receive them and those at Barren Hill as far as possible, and that Rev. Kurtz, Sr., should go to German- town as soon as he could, and make a trial of six weeks; his j^lace is to be supplied by his nearest colleagues Avho were willing, especially Provost Wrangel, Mr. M. Gerock, Mr. Kurtz, Jr., ]Mr. Schauiu and Mr. Schwertfeger. 2. The election of a new President. The majority of votes were for Rev. IMiihlenberg, in which office success and blessing were then wished him by all of the preachers. [The MS. of Miililenberf^ differs here, introducing the deliberations concerning New York, not reported in H. N., until the linal decision next day. It is as follows: FIFTEENTH CONVENTION, 1762. 65 [The matter of tlie New York congregations was taken up and the delegates of both congregations given an audience. We scarcely know how to decide, since we need laborers, and at this time it seems impos- sible to unite the two congregations into one. The matter was post- poned for more mature deliberation until, D. V., to-morrow morning. There being a little time left, the Ministerium proceeded to the election of a President. I begged to be excused from the office, and gave my reasons, but they again elected me, and asked that I remain in office only until the congregations were brought into better order.] In the evening about seven o'clock, the service began in church. Provost Wrangel preached, and one of the Swedish brethren offered prayer and afterwards pronounced the benediction before the altar. After the close of the evening service every one went home. Tuesday, June 29, all the preachers came together in one of the upper school rooms, at about nine o'clock in the forenoon, for a further conference, at which the following matters were taken up : 1. Mr. Roth, who had formerly been a Roman Catholic student at Siegen, was taken aside into another school-room, and carefully examined as to his doctrine by Dr. Wrangel, Mr. M. Gerock and Rev. Handschuh, Mr. Weygand attending, as his strength permitted. He was earnestly exhorted and requested to wait for his reception into our fellowship until further information, and then in fervent prayer commended to the Lord, which was not done without tears and heart-felt emotion on his part. 2. The circumstances of the New York congregations were again earnestly taken up. Rev. Kurtz's diary of his and Provost Wrangel's journey to New York and their doings there, his proposition for union presented to the above congregations, and the answer to it from Rev. Weygand and his elders and deacons were read ; whereupon it was finally decided, after much and somewhat laborious consideration, that another attempt at the union of these two separated congregations must be made, and Rev. Mr. Gerock was unanimously chosen to accompany the delegates from New York home and undertake such attempt. Rev. Kurtz, Sr., and Mr. Schwertfeger were willing to supply his place in Lancaster, in the meantime, and, perhaps, also Mr. Muhlenberg for one Sunday. Thereupon the delegated elders and deacons from both the New York congregations were earnestly exhorted. After the close of this private conference, several preachers and the New York elders remained and dined with Mr. Handschuh; others went with Rev. Muhlenberg to his house, and others to their several lodging places. In the afternoon, at about two o'clock, all the preachers came together 6 66 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. in the cliurch for the public school examination, to which not only all the preachers, resident and non-resident elders and deacons who were present, but also the parents of the children, had been publicly invited the day before. Tliere was an unusually large number of the school children, who had been led in, each class two by two, and had been seated in suitable order by their schoolmaster Hofner. The exami- nation was opened with singing and prayer by the school children. The higher classes were examined by the preachers, especially by the non- resident Germans ; but the schoolmaster examined the lower classes, the examination being interspersed with the singing of beautiful hymns. When this was finished, the schoolmaster catechized all the school children in the order of their classes ; in which the children were so hearty and ready, also in repeating the best proof-texts, that all the non-resident preachers, elders and deacons present were not a little astonished, and listened with the greatest satisfaction. Finally Mr. Kurtz, Jr., came before the altar, made an edifying address to the children, and closed with prayer ; and at last the exercises ended with singing and the distribution of j)retzels. In the evening, about seven o'clock, a public service was again held in the church. ]Mr. Hausihl preached [on Rev. 3 : 1-2, for almost two hours], and another offered prayer and pronounced the benediction from before the altar. Since the public services in day time, as well as in the evening, were attended by an unusually large number of listeners, and attentively followed to their end, the audience was invited to another service on the following evening in the Swedish Church at Wicaco. On Wednesday morning some of the preachers again prepared for the journey home ; the resident preachers and those who yet remained, at the invitation of Provost Wrangel dined, together with their wives, at his home. [After dinner some rested awhile, others went together into his garden, others shut themselves in a room to discuss in quiet, all manner of congregational and ministerial matters especially concern- ing Yorktown.] Toward evening quite a number of people came to the Swedish church, although many had a long way to come from the city. For the sake of those who understood no German, the Swedish preacher Bryzelius preached in English [on John 17: 3. Sermon much confused, as he extemporized], and Rov. INIiihlcnberg addressed a German exhortation [on Ps. 73 : 25], to those who diil not understand the English [and thanked tlie Swedish ministei-s for their faithful and edifying attendance, and wished his colleagues a happy journey homo]. The English .'Jang in English, and the Germans in German, each in their order. Several preachers remained with Provost Wrangel for FIFTEENTH CONVENTION, 1762. 67 supper ; others who had business to transact, returned the long distance to their homes with their wives. Thus the Conference for this time was closed, with the gracious aid of God, and presumably not entirely with- out blessing and encouragement. The Lord be praised ! Henry Melchior Muhlenberg. John Frederick Handschuh. Philadelphia, April 26, 1763. SIXTEENTH CONVENTION. 1763. TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY, (October 10-19, Philadelphia.) [Pastor Muhlenberg's Diary, 1763. H. N. 1122 ff.; MS.; Supplemented by Halle Doc. II. 1575 ff.] October 15. The delegates and preachers gradually arrived, various members of the congregation handed in their names for communion to- morrow, and besides much other coming and going, I had also to visit some sick people. About two o'clock in the afternoon, I went to the Conference in the parsonage [where there were present Dr. "Wrangel, Messrs. Hornell, Gerock, Hausihl, Eager, Handschuh and I]. Here I read them the minutes of the last meeting, then I communicated to them the correspondence received respecting the congregations [among which also was the Latin letter, which especially offended the Provost with its blind prejudices). Arrangements for the sermons and evening services were made. [We conferred concerning the invitation of old Rev. Stover and Mr. Roth.] We also discussed whether we should not invite Mr. Whitefield and the two friendly disposed preachers of the Episcopal Church for Monday and Tuesday, especially to the examina- tion of the children. Dr. Wrangel mentioned, among other reasons, that Mr. Whitefield had assisted our poor distressed bretliren in Prussia by means of collections. In the evening. Dr. Wrangel took me with him to Mr. Whitefield, and in the name of the Ministerium we invited him, and at the same time the Rector of the High Church [Rev. Peters] who was present. He promised, if he were well, to attend next Tues- day. In the evening from 8 to 11, Pastor Gerock was with me alone, and had much to confer about, but I could endure the strain no longer, being wearied and exhausted. October 16. I was visited by Deacon Roth, and by the delegates I'rom Tulpchockcn, who anxiously requested that we should soon send Mr. Kurtz home again from Gerinantown, as the congregation was in danger of being scattered. I had also a visitor from Indianfield. After nine o'clock in the forenoon, I went to the school-house, where I 68 SIXTEENTH CONVENTION, 1763. 69 found the preachers, our church council and the delegates assembled. Toward ten o'clock we went in procession to the church [a. the six dea- cons of the Philadelphia congregation preceding, b. then the Provost, Gerock and I, c. Messrs. Heggeblad and Hornell, d. Messrs. Hausihl and Eager, e. Messrs. Handschuh, Stover, Kurtz, Jr and Roth,/, the delegates, and last our trustees and elders]. Public worship was held in the following order : It was opened with the reading of the 117th Psalm by Wrangel, and then ^' Komm Helliger Geisf, Herre Gott," etc., was sung with instrumental music. Then the Confession, Collect and Epistle were read by Muhlenberg, and the hymn, " Sey Lob und Ehr dem hochsten Gut," etc., was sung. Hereupon one of the preachers. Rev. Eager, read the Apostles' Creed. A selection of Church music was rendered, and Dr. Wrangel preached an excellent and powerful sermon on II Cor. 5 : 14, " For the love of Christ con- straineth us," etc. The theme was : " How far the service of converted and of unconverted preachers could be effective and pleasing to Christ." The distinction between the efficacy and the administration of the Gospel was very well shown, but only the first part could be treated, the time being too short. The second part of the fruits of converted laborers was postponed to some other opportunity. After the sermon [the first two stanzas of] " Wachet atif, rujt uns die Stimme," etc., were sung [chor- weis], and then the Confession and the Absolution were read [by Rev. Handschuh.] and the bread and wine consecrated. [Dr. Wrangel and I administered the communion.] Six ministers and about seventy members of the congregation received the Holy Communion. After the Benediction had been pronounced [by Rev. Hornell,] all the preachers went to the school-house after one o'clock and dined. Pastor Handschuh had a Reformed woman to bury, who had died in child- birth, and to preach the funeral sermon in the old Reformed Church. About half-past two in the afternoon, we [all except Dr. Wrangel who stood as sponsor for Rev. Duchee's son] again went to the church. After the hymn, " Ilache dicli, mein Geist, bereit," etc., had been sung, and Mr. Hausihl had baptized four children, Mr. Stover preached on the Epistle lesson for the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity, Eph. 5 : 15- 21 : " Of the Prudent Walk and Conversation of the Christian." 1. In regard to ministers, 2. To hearers. Finally, "J.cA hleib mit deiner Gnade bey uns, Herr Jesu Christ," etc., was sung. Afterwards, several of the preachers and delegates again went to the school-house, where the elder Mr. Kurtz who had labored in his congregation in the fore- noon, also joined them. In the evening at about seven o'clock, we again went to church, where a large crowd had gathered. Rev. Eager, of the High German congregation in New York, a former pupil of Drs. 70 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Baumgarten, Knapp and Clausnitz, preached a very refreshing, instruc- tive and edifying sermon ou Ileb. 11 : 24-26 [Of a "Wise and Intelligent Choice. 1. What to reject; 2 What to choose and take.] Monday, Oct. 17. The younger Mr. Kurtz was called to German town to attend a funeral for his brother. Towards ten o'clock the preachers and delegates assembled in the school-house and went in procession to the church. Tlie synodical sermon was preached [by Rev. Hausihl] on Rev. 3 : 4. [" Thou hast a few names even in Sardis, which have not defiled their garments."] He preached especially on the folhjwing words : " And they shall walk with me in white, for they are worthy." After the sermon the business sessions began in the following order : I. The President requested Mr. Kurtz, Sr., to record the minutes. II. The delegates were called up and enrolled : 1. From the Philadelphia congregation, the trustees, elders and deacons present. 2. From Ger- mantown, John Groothaus, John Nebal, Adolf Gillman and John Engel. 3. From White Marsh or Barren Hill, Christoph. Robin, Valen- tine Miiller, Matth. Sommer. 4. From Lancaster, Esquire Kuhn and Caspar Singer. 5. From Yorktown, across the Susquehanna, Jacob Billmeyer. 6. From Frederickstown, in Maryland, no one was present on account of the lateness of the season, but instead there was a written report. 7. From Providence, no one had come, partly because the elders are offended since they had expected me to return. 8. From New Hanover, INIr. Michael Walter. 9. From Reading, on the Schuyl- kill, Jacob Rabolt. 10. From Tulpehocken, Andreas Kreuzer and Jacob Fischer. 11. From Kew Germantown, Bedminster, etc , in Jersey, none were present, because the invitation had not been correctly delivered. 12. From New York, a letter of excuse [by Rev. Weygand] from the Low German Congregation, but from the High German a delegate, Peter Grim. 13. The Low and High German Congregations in Hack- ensack, Remraersbach, Wahlkiel, etc., had sufficiently excused them- selves, having paid us a visit several weeks before and reported the condition of the church. 14. From Rhinebeck, Camp, Staatsburg, Claverack in the Province of New York, two hundred miles from here, an adequate excuse was received. They stjind in friendly relations towards us. 15- From Earltown, Conestoga and Muddy Creek, in Pennsylvania, Conrad Schrcuber and John Schultz. 16. From Easton, on the Delaware, Greenwich, etc., two delegates. 17. From !Macunschy, Heidelberg, Jordan, etc-, nobody came on account of the danger from Indians [for a sufficient excuse, because a short time before the Indians had killed several of our members]. 18. From Indianfield, Saccura, and Upper Dublin Frederick Warabold, Melchior Kna-ple, Valentin Pough and Jacob Timanus. 19. From Upper Milford, AUentown, etc., SIXTEENTH CONVENTION, 1763. 71 a letter of excuse, on account of fear of attacks by the Indians. 20. From Cohenzy, in Jersey, no one, because I had been there and noted the circumstances. 21. From Conewaga, Manchester and Paradise in Pennsylvania a written application and delegate, Nicolaus Biedinger. 22. From Oley, Whitendahl, etc., an excuse on account of fear of the Indians, and 23, from Winchester, in Virginia, written communications [because they also are in danger of Indian troubles]. III. Letters were read, one concerning Pastor Roth, a testimonial regarding his uprightness in life, and his activity in his duties. Another from the inhabitants of Allenstown in Hampton Co., who desired the above-mentioned Mr. Roth as their preacher, but since that time have mostly been put to flight and scattered by the Indians. Further, a written excuse from Mr. Schertlin, on account of his age and danger from the Indians, with the request that we remember him in our prayers. Then a petition from Oley, recently called Stoor, to have preaching every four weeks. IV. The President requested that the brethren be pleased to report at their convenience, how many children and adults were baptized in the United Congregations, how many had received instruction and were confirmed, and how many members had died. This they promised to do. After the above and other necessary letters had been considered, we returned to the school-house. The ministers and laborers present this time were: Dr. Wrangel, the Swedish missionary Mr. Heggeblat, Pastor Gerock, of Lancaster ; [Mr. Hornell, of Yorktown ;] Pastor Kurtz, Sr. , of Germantown ; [Mr. Hau- sihl, of Reading ;] Pastor Eager, of New York ; Pastor Stover, of Swatara ; Deacon Kurtz, from the Nordkiel ; Deacon Roth, of Saccum ; Indianfield, etc.. Pastor Handschuh, and Muhlenberg. Absent ministers : Pastor Borell, of Wilmington ; Pastor Wicksel, of Racoon, in Jersey. Missionaries : Pastor Schaum, of Whitendahl ; Pastor Weygand, of New York ; Pastor Graf, of Hackensack, in Jersey ; Pastor Riess, of Rhinebeck ; Pastor Bryzelius, of New Germantown, in Jersey ; Pastor Fried, of the Blue Mountains. In the forenoon we discussed whether Deacon Roth could be finally received into the union, and those present from Indianfield and Saccum were questioned as to the sentiment of the congregations, and in the name of the congregation expressed their desire for it. The Minis- terium therefore considered it advisable to receive him, under the follow- ing conditions : 1. That a necessary admonition be addressed to him beforehand. 2. That it be understood that we retain the riglit to exclude him for sufficient reasons. The President addressed the admo- nition to him, and the other members gave their assent and received him 72 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Avith the right hand, and hearty congratulations. He also prepared a letter for the congregations in ludianlield, Saccum and Upper ^liltbrd, gave it to the delegates to take with them, and dismissed them to go home in peace, as they very much desired ou account of Indian disturbances. In the meantime, the two ministers of the High Church, Messrs. Peters and Duchee, arrived, whom we welcomed gladly and talked on I Cor. 3 : 11, " For other foundation can no man lay," etc., concerning the best way of building on that foundation. [The President asked the English clergymen to give us a sentence for our encouragement. They answered : "Other foundation can no man lay," I Cor. 3: 11.] Mr. Ingliss, of Dover, was also present. All the ministers and delegates present dined in the lower hall of the school-house, where the Church Council of the place very attentively waited upon them. During the meal there was pleasant conversation, and several in>piring stanzas of evangelical hymns were sung. The English gentlemen left with an affectionate farewell, and the IMinisterium proceeded to further work. The delegates from Tulpehocken sadly and earnestly requested that their old preacher, Mr. Kurtz, again return from Germantown, if his congregations were not to be divided and scattered, as they had already begun to be since his absence. The answer was : That we could not desert the Germantown people in their really critical circumstances without great harm and offence. Pastor Kurtz should rather make a trip up there immediately after Synod, visit the congregations and strengthen them with the Means of Grace, and stay with them several weeks ; in the meantime, Germantown must be provided for from Phila- delphia, until, through God's mercy, help comes from Europe, when Mr. Kurtz, God willing, may return to them for their good. Further advice there was none to give. They received this with saddened countenances and went away perplexed. Hereupon tlie delegates from Reading and Easton came before us. The people from Easton insisted that the pastor from Reading, who had accepted their call, must move to Easton before "Winter. The Presi- dent asked whether the change might not be postponed until next Spring, as it was dangerous to travel at that time on account of the In- dians, and the vacancy in Reading could not be filled so quickly. But they let it be understood that Reading could more conveniently be visited by the neighboring preachers than Easton, and that their circum- stances allowed of no delay. The decision was that the change must take place, God willing, and that in the meantime the Reading congre- gation, as far as possible, should be visited by the other preaclmrs alternately, until help came from Europe, [This congregation after- wards received Mr Krug as its regular preacher.] SIXTEENTH CONVENTION, 1763. 73 The Ministerium then went into the lower room of the school-house to discuss several matters more publicly before all the delegates. [A call to the pastorate from the Church Council in Yorktown, for Mr. Hornell, was publicly read. The Ministerium resolved that the call was satisfactory, and little or no objection could be made. It was unani- mously approved, signed and given to INIr. Hornell.] The delegates from Earltown and Conestoga presented a letter to the Ministerium, asking for a regular preacher. It was unanimously resolved that the younger INIr. Kurtz accept the call. The delegates thought he was some- what too young and weak for their congregations, and that it was very necessary that the elder brother have nearer supervision and visit them occasionally from Tulpehocken. This was approved by the Ministerium, and the above call was ordered to be extended to the younger Mr. Kurtz, with this condition, and the elder Mr. Kurtz was advised that, on his intended visit, he should further straighten out matters. Further, several members of the Ministerium asked whether Pastor Stover might join the union this time ? Answer : " Yes, if he desired it, and the Ministerium consented." Pastor Gerock arose and asked Pastor Stover his opinion, whether he wished to be a member ? Answer : " That it was his desire, if the aim of the Ministerium be the honor of God, the propa- gation of the pure evangelical doctrine, and the up-building of our Church." The President replied that no worldly honor, no material in- terest, as also no carnal pleasure, but the honor of God and the welfare of our congregations was the basis and aim of our union. Pastor Stover remarked, while outside of the union he had taught and done as best he knew. The President answered : " If the Most Holy God wished to reckon with the best of his servants concerning their office and condi- tion, not a single thing in a thousand could be answered." When the votes in approbation of his reception were asked for, and Dr. Wrangel was asked first, he answered that he had directions from the most worthy Archbishop to live in harmony with the regular German Minis- terium, and that if we found sufficient reason for receiving Pastor Stover he would not hinder us. The President perceived that it was unanimously approved by all the members of the IVIinisterium jiresent, and extended to him hand and heart with congratulations, as also did all the others, one and aU laying aside old misunderstandings. By this time evening had come. The President had thought that the younger Mr. Kurtz would preach the evening sermon in the church, but, as he had not returned from Germantown, the elder Mr. Kurtz was requested to speak a word of exhortation. About seven o'clock, therefore, we went to church, where we found a large assembly, and Mr. Kurtz preached on I John 3 : 28, " And this is his commandment," etc., as 74 DOCUMENTARY HISTOEY. well as the Lord granted tind the disturbances of the whole day per- mitted him. Finally it was announced that to-morrow forenoon, God willing, the jJubUc examination of tlie school children was to be held. After the service, Dr. Wrangel, Pastor Handschuh and three trustees went to Mr. Whitefield, and asked whether he would attend our exami- nation in the cliurch to-morrow forenoon, and address an earnest word to the children? Answer: "Yes, if his strength permitted and it was God's gracious will." October 18, about ten o'clock in the forenoon we went to the church and took the children along. The following ministers joined us: Messrs. Duchee and Ingliss, of the High Church ; President Dr. Fiu- ley, of the Jersey Presbyterian High School, Senior Teunent, a Presbyterian preacher from Newark, and finally Mr. "Whitefield, and with him a number of Englisli friends, so that the church was filled with English and Germans, and the cliildren were crowded. Mr. Whitefield went into the pulpit, offered a fervent and impressive prayer, then turned to the children and raarle a simple and easily- understood address about pious children of the Old and i\ew Testa- ments, and gave some modern examples which had happened in his time. He was deeply moved, and wept, and afterwards also impressed their duty upon the parents. After this the children were catechised, partly by Dr. Wrangel, partly, also, by me in German ; but as Mr. Whitefield was very weak physically, and the crowd in the cliurch became too great, we had to stop, and closed wath a selection of Church music. The preachers and other delegates, elders and deacons who yet remained dined in the school-house, where the aged Mr. Tenuent pre- sided and refreshed us with edifying discourse. Afterwards the Miuis- terium again went to its work, taking several elders along. 1. A messenger (Nicolaus Budinger) arrived from the congregations in and about Conowago across the Susquehanna, with letters to the Ministeriura, in which request was made for a preacher. But if they could not at present be supplied with one they asked for a certain cate- chist, C. W., who formerly had held school among them, and had already conducted worship in Winchester, in Virginia, from which place he had come to them on account of Indian disturbances. The Ministerium debated long on this point, and finally resolved that, until further knowledge, the above-mentioned catechist and school- master might labor in the congregations and baptize tlie children, and, in extreme necessity, give coTnmunion to a sick person, and should be under the nearer supervision of the preacher in Yorktown, in con- nection with which it was advised that instructions be given him, SIXTEENTH CONVENTION, 1763. 76 defining his official duties and relations. Pastor Gerock prepared such instructions, specifying, among other things, also, with the approval of the Ministerium, that he should keep a diary and send it in, as also, at the same time, testimonials of his conduct from Winchester, etc. With this the messenger was dismissed. 2. [In the meantime Apoth. S. entered and handed in a writing of complaint and also a separate writing against Rev. Handschuh and the Church Council of the Philadelphia congregation with the request that the Reverend Ministerium should adjust their quarrel. I answered that this could not be attended to immediately upon their request, because there was much business to be transacted with the delegates of the dis- tant congregations, which must first be finished. He answered that we could call him at any time, and he would come.] 3. The younger Mr. Kurtz being now present, the call from Earltown and Conestoga was delivered to him with due exhortation and wish of blessing, and was accepted by him after it had been approved by the Ministerium in writing. As it was evening we went to church, found the house crowded and listened to an edifying sermon by Mr. Kurtz, Jr., on II Cor. 6:1: " That ye receive not the grace of God in vain." Afterwards we again went to the school-house to our work. 4. Attention was called (by Mr. Plausihl) to the fact that as the preacher of Reading would move to Easton, an old and important filial congregation in Richmond would become vacant, it was asked whether Pastor Schaum, who lived nearest to it,^ might not serve this congrega- tion along with his others ? The Ministerium voted : Yes, if Pastor Schaum were willing to render the service and the congregation wanted him. 5. The delegate from New York was called in, and a letter of com- plaint signed by fourteen dissatisfied men was read. Rev. Eager and the delegate objected, saying that among the subscribers and comjilainants only a few belonged to their congregation, and that their points of com- plaint were mostly not in accordance with love and truth. But as the complainants w^ere not personally present, no impartial judgment could be given, and it was left to the President to write an answer and send it with these men, viz.: 1. That the point concerning the collectors did not belong to our forum, and as the matter Avas already given into the hands of four impartial arbitrators, and agreements made by both parties, we could do nothing in the matter. 2. And as to the election of the dea- cons, in the future it must be conformed to the order of the other United Congregations. 6. Finally, late at night, the written complaint of Apoth. Schu. and ^ About seven miles away. 76 DOCtTMENTAEY HISTORY. twelve other subscribers against Mr. Handscliuh and the old Church Council was opened and read iu the Miuisteriura, and contained the fol- lowing points : 1. Mr. Handschuh was accused of blasphemy; 2. The charge was made that Mr. Handschuh and the former elders and dea- cons [in the congregational strife going on before Muhlenberg came,] had bound themselves together by oaths against the complainants; 3. They desired to know the summa summarum of the building of tlie school-house ; 4. And that fixed salaries might be decided upon for the preachers. As the Ministerium was alone, and no delegates were present, a dis- cussion of the matter in general and in detail was held. 1. Of the so- called blasphemy of Mr. Handschuh. The status controver-ncB was this : a, Mr. Handschuh was said to have met Apoth. Sch. and Peter jNIiiller at a certain time not far from the church, and to have asked Peter Miiller, whether he would not soon leave the Moravians and return to the church. Further Mr. Handschuh is to have added : " If God the Lord does not destroy the Moravians, root and branch, in ten years. He is no righteous God ! If Jesus Christ does not destroy the Moravians, root and branch, he is no righteous Jesus ! " Whereupon P. M. is said to have answered : " Pastor, you set me a bad example." b, After it was taken for granted, that the words were so uttered and spoken, and could be verified by witnesses, each member of the Ministerium gave his opinion, whether this were blasphemy ; but first Mr. Handschuh was allowed to explain under what circumstances and with what intention he had spoken such words, since it is necessary that altera pars be also heard, c, Mr. Handschuh said that he had on that day and before, read 's book on the errors of the IMoravians, and especially a con- gregational address by Count Zinzendorf, by which he was rendered both sad and indignant, and as not only Mr. L. W., but also this P. M r came within his hearing, these words or similar might well have been uttered by him. The members present decided that, if the intention were considered, it was not indeed blasphemy, yet it was a hasty, thoughtless and sinful way of speaking, for which he must repent before God and pray for forgiveness, and not use it in the future. Rev. Gerock, however, would not express his opinion, though much urged to do 80, for reasons that seemed sufficient to him, and therefore requested that INIr. Handschuh retire, which he did ; and thereupon Mr. Gerock said, that he did not believe that Mr. Handschuh's intention and mean- ing were to blaspheme God, but the words nevertheless sounded like blas- phemy. Rev. Hausihl suggested that we ought to inquire whether Mr. Handschuh insisted that he had spoken rightly, when he was censured for it, or whether he confessed on having his attention called to it, that SIXTEENTH CONVENTION, 17C3. 77 he liad spoken unjustly. In making the inquiry it could not be clearly learned whether he were sorry, or considered himself in the right ; con- sequently he was advised by all the members present to recognize his rashness, pray God for forgiveness, and on the morrow, God willing, explain matters to Mr. Schu. in unequivocal words, and again make amends for the scandal that had been occasioned. 2. In reference to the second point, the oath of Mr. Handschuh and the elders and deacons, the Protocol was asked for and brought, in order to examine the formula used. In it the formula stands at the end, viz : " To the above we bind ourselves in His Most Holy Name, as true as God will grant us help and assistance in His time," and then follow the signatures. [In Halle Doc] [N, B. — I was frightened by this Protocol record, and wished it were no longer in existence, because I best understood the purpose and contents of it. For the obligation by oath was made on January 12, 1761, when a short time before the so-called dissatisfied parties had ridden over to me at Providence and urged me to come down and help the congregation, so that the obligation was not only against the com- plaining members, but also against the Provost and myself, as the answer of the Church Council of February 20, 1761, shows more clearly, in which Mr. Handschuh expressly writes: "We have bound ourselves by oath and fraternally to stand by one another." Now, since neither the complaining members, nor the Provost, nor I were at any time heard, and yet judgment passed against the complaining party, and moreover this was recorded in the Church Book as an everlasting me- morial, and we on the other hand in the new Church Order had declared Mr. Handschuh and all the elders blameless and honorable, and attested this with our names for future generations to read it ; it was very unjust that we and our children should be immortalized in the Church Protocol as condemned rebels. This was executio sine caiisce cogniiione.'] I let the others judge as impartial members after I had made the following remarks, viz.: That it seemed to me that as disturbances and dissatisfactions had arisen in the congregation, the elders and deacons had become afraid, and worried lest finally a division might result among themselves, since they had the example of the Gerniantown congregation in mind, and that they therefore bound themselves together to stand as one man ; further, I said nothing. The members considered the above formula in the Protocol for a Avhile, and finally voted that it was not a formal oath, but was rather a wish.^ As it was ^But Mr. Gerock held \i\s judicium in mspenso. 78 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. already one o'clock at night and all were very tired, each went to his quarters, Messrs. Gerock and Handschuh speaking together cordially. Wednesday, October 19, about 9 o'clock a. m., the Reverend Minis- teriura again met iu the school-house, where Mr, Apoth. Sch. presented himself, and soon after Mr. Brechel also joined us. The complaint against Rev. INIr. Handschuh was taken up, and in detail : 1. Concem- ing^the reported blasphemy: a. Mr. Ap. S. related how the words had been spoken in the prea- ence of himself and P. M. h. Mr. Handschuh gave his explanation, and told under what cir- cumstances and in what spirit he had spoken the words. c. The members of the Ministerium present voted, except Rev. Mr. Gerock, who yet preferred to hold his judgment in suspense in this matter. The other members voted, and said that it was a sinful rashness and thoughtless way of speaking, but not an intended blasphemy. Mr. Gerock finally, after much urging, added that the words sounded blasphemously, but he did not believe that it was Mr. Handschuh's intention to blaspheme, but believed, rather, that he was sorry for the expressions, and would pray God for forgiveness. d. Mr. Handschuh recognized and confessed that the above- mentioned expressions were unintentionally scandalous and offensive, and asked Mr. Sch. for forgiveness, which was granted, and they were advised to think no more of this matter. When ]\lr. Ap. S. was here- upon asked whether in the future he would have any conscientious scruples in receiving communion from Mr. Handchuh, he answered that he could not tell that yet, because other points were not yet decided. [He also gave as his opinion that the Ministerium had passed too light a judgment, as though Mr. Handschuh had spoken the words out of weakness and hastily, whereas a certain friend of the so-called Moravians, William Becker, had gone to Mr. Handschuh some time after the affair, and asked him whether he had used such hard expres- sions, whereupon Mr. Handschuh answered, " Yes, I have, and it is still so."] 2d point. Concerning the formula of the obligation and oath in the Protocol, between Mr. Handschuh, the elders and deacons. The closing words in the Protocol were read, and then each member of the Reverend Ministerium was asked his opinion, whether he considered this an oath or something of that kind. Rev. Mr. Gerock recjuestcd to be allowed to keep his judgment in suspense, for reasons known to liimself, which he would later reveal. The others members, except Handscluih and ISIiihlenberg, voted and decided tluit the formula was more of a wish than an oath. But Mr. Ap. Schu. insisted that it was a union SIXTEENTH CONVENTION, 1763. 79 and obligation by oath. Thereupon the Protocol was again handed to Rev. Gerock, and he was requested to read the formula again. But Rev. Gerock, instead of the last words, read the whole closing paragraph from beginning to end, and Mr. Brechel became exasperated, saying that in the Protocol the dissatisfied persons, together with their children, and children's children, were, on account of matters in which they were not heard, condemned, defamed, and thus recorded in the Protocol as a memorial, and this ought not to remain thus. As the Ministerium saw that it could not proceed further in the matter, and had more necessary matters to occupy its attention, the further consideration of the subject was referred to a special conference of several preachers and the Church Council, as also of the complaining members of the congrega- tion. Then the matter was to be further examined into, and, if possible, brought to an end. This was the decision of the Ministerium. [Mr. Ap. Schu. consented to this, making the request that it might be held soon, and saying that only the old elders were needed there, so that it might be held without much observance.] Mr. Schu. and Mr. Br. were requested to keep the matter as quiet as possible, until it was fully decided. It is to be remarked that Mr. Schu. several times said in the meeting : *' Mr. Handschuh, I am not hostile to you ; I know your temperament ; I don't want you to lose your means of subsistence." 3. After Messrs. Schu. and Br. had left, the Ministerium resolved to prepare a brief statement in which it would notify the honorable Church Council of the special meeting for the further investigation, and recom- mend it to them. Rev. Gerock prepared such a document, which was also signed by the rest, excepting Muhlenberg and Handschuh. 4. A letter from the congregations in INIanchester and Paradise Town- ship, beyond Yorktown, was read, in which the congregation requested : 1. That they might also be under the supervision of the United Minis- terium ; 2, that help be granted them ; and 3, that, as they had a man among them, Schwahi-bach by name, who lived an exemplary life, instructed them in the Word of God, and also held instruction for chil- dren, they wished that this man be allowed to continue among them, but that Rev. Hornell, of Yorktown, administer the Holy Sacraments to them, and have Mr. Schwahrbach under his nearer supervision. There was a long debate on this, and finally it was decided that Mr. Schwahrbach might read or hold exhortations and catechisations on Sundays and Festival days, and until further knowledge be under the nearer supervision of Rev. Hornell, of Yorktown, as the congregations in any case were to be considered filials of Yorktown. [5. The President stated that a delegate from Lancaster, Mr, C. S., desired to bring the following before the Ministerium and have it dis- 80 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. cussed, viz. : That most of the elders and members of the congregation wished that Rev. G. might exchange with somebody for a wliile, a, because the congregation was involved in the heavy expenses of building a church ; b, many did not want to give the amount they had promised, alleging that everything was so cold in the congregation, the pastor made no pastoral vi.-its, etc. Rev. G. answered : a, if a change was to be made, the congregation must tell him so itself; and h, have the per- mission and the consent of honorable Consistorium of the Dukedom of Wiirttemberg. But as to his not visiting the sick or families, the charge could not be proved, since the sick who needed attention were in no wise neglected. Of an exchange of preacher;?, Rev. G. had made a proposition several years ago already, whenever circumstances would permit it; and if the Lancaster congregation itself desired a change, he knew a jlace to which he could go] 6. Rev. Gerock called attention to the fact that Pastor Schwertfcger, in Frederickstown, Maryland, had as yet no regular call from the con- gregation, and asked whether he should write one and have the congre- gation sign it and send it to the !Miuisterium, and the jNIiuisterium then deliver it to Mr. Schwertfeger? Answer: "Yes." Rev. Gerock was requested to arrange this matter. 7. H. M. resigned his office as President, and requested that some one else be elected, as his circumstances would not permit hiin to serve any longer. The election was held as usual by votes, and he had to accept it for one year more, but declined to receive congratulations. 8. About four o'clock p.m , Mr. George Whitefield paid a friendly visit to the Ministerium in the school-house, took leave with emotion, and commended himself to our prayers and remembrance before the Throne of Grace. [9. Muhlenberg made the following statement to the Rev. Minis- terium. On July 18, 1753, a box was deposited with the late Rev. Brunnholtz in Philadelphia, in which was found an edifying communi- cation of Mr. John Gottlob Bruckholtz, Advocatus Electorali.s Saxonico- Lipsieusis et Notarius Publicus Cicsareus, addressed to the United Lutheran Ministerium of that time and in particular to Miihlenberg, in which it was announced that in the box there were all sorts of books, with a catalogue, as also eight pieces of Saxon coin for eight jireachors, a four groschen and a two groschen piece for school-teachers, and fifty quarter groschen for orphan children, and two plain summer caps, and all were intended ad pins emmts. Since the noble benefactor's kind apportionment was of such kind, that the gifts mentioned could not be apportioned in all parts as directed, the box remained with the late Rev. Brunnholtz for several years, and good care was taken of it, until he SIXTEENTH CONVENTION, 1763. 81 had written and asked our friends iu Europe, what we were to do in the matter. Thereupon answer was finally received, that the United Preach- ers should divide the gifts as best they knew how. The war times, which came in 1755, and other circumstances in the meantime inter- rupted our annual synodical meetings, and Mr. Brunnholtz was unwill- ing to undertake the division of the books alone, and died in 1757, leaving the books, etc, behind undivided. Since then, after his death, Rev. Handschuh succeeded him in Philadelphia, but the renewal of our annual preachers' meeting was yet delayed. I wrote to Rev. Hand- schuh in the Spring of 1759, sent along the letter of the noble benefac- tor and requested that he demand the books, etc., of the executors of the late Rev. Brunnholtz' s estate, take charge of them, and divide them as best he could according to the directions of our European friends. But I desired to have none of the gifts mentioned. Nothing more concerning the matter was heard until on January 10, 1763, I found opportunity in a congregational council in Philadelphia to inquire after the books and other things, and publicly to read the letter of our noble benefactor, and received the following explanation, viz. : 1. The executor, Mr. Jacob Griif, Sr., declared that he had exchanged the foreign money at the silversmith's, and received twenty shillings currency for it, and also had retained several pieces, which were at our service as soon as they were asked for. 2. That on February 27, 1759, he had sent the books mentioned, which did not belong to the late Rev Brunnholtz's estate, to Rev. Handschuh's house, by the Widow Wolilfart and Margaretha Horn, and presumably he had sold the two old summer caps and the two neckties with the other things. So also the Rev. Handschuh declared in the same congregational council : 1. That the catalogue of the noble benefactor's books was still in existence, and 2. That of the books, he sent some to Rev. Kurtz, Sr., to use, and also had given a goodly part of the devotional German books to needy schoolmasters, and poor fugitives from the Blue Mountains, and still had a part of them in his house. In order to adjust the matter as far as possible, I took the catalogue of all the books in charge; on February 24, 1763, I had the books yet remaining brought from Rev. Handschuh's to the school-house by our deacons, in the presence of several eldei*s, made a record of them one by one, and while doing this found several belonging to the Church Library, of which I also made a record, and laid them with those in the box. This box, together with the catalogue, has since then been kept in the library, and I now, on this 19th of October, 1763, give it 6 82 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. over to the Rev. Miuisterium for tlieir examination and further dispo- fcition, with the following conditions and questions : 1. I ask that the letter of the noble benefactor be read aloud. This was done. 2. What sliall be done with the twenty shillings? Unanimous answer: It can be given to the poor for their soul's welfare. 3. Shall two books be placed in the Church Library, according to the disposition of the benefactor ? Answer : Yes, it is weU and right. Accordingly the only folio and a quarto were chosen and added to the library. 4. Since the poor already have their best part, do the remaining books belong to the laborers and servants of Christ? Answer: Yes. Dr. Wrangel, Missionary Heggeblad, jNIiihlenberg [and Handschuh] refused to have a share in them. Mr. Kurtz already had some, and of these is to give half to Mr. Schaum. As to the others, it was resolved that the rest should be apportioned by lot to the preachers present, and those absent, ten in number. This was satisfactorily done.] Finally, Dr. "Wrangel requested the brethren yet present, that each on his part, as he was able, should furnish some documents referring to the first beginning and progress of the Evangelical German congrega- tions in Pennsylvania for an intended history, which was promised. In the evening we again went to church, where we found the auditorium crowded. Dr. Wrangel discussed the second part of the sermon he had begun on II Cor. 5 : 14, " Of the fruits of the constraining love of Jesus in the true servants of Jesus," and dismissed the meeting for this year with a hearty wish of blessing and thanksgiving, and the President closed with prayer. Afterwards we again went to the school-house, where the Church Council rendered its thanks to the Ministerium. The Dr. Provost handed to them the written request of the Ministerium for a meeting of Church Council to keep peace in the congregation. Amen ! P. S. — After almost every annual meeting, I have noticed that a special trial and sorrow have come upon our poor preachers and congrega- tions ; I therefore prayed in closing, that the Lord mercifully would grant us poor servants that we have our feet shod and be ready to carry the Gospel of Peace forward. Dark clouds are already gathering, and new rods will be bound of a new kind, which we have not yet tasted 1 Help us to suffer and to conquer, Jesus, Thou Prince of Life ! SEVENTEENTH CONVENTION. 1764. The meeting was to have been held in September, in Philadelphia or GermantowB [H. N. o. e. 1161. N. E. II. 567.], but no trace of proceedings has been discovered. EIGHTEENTH CONVENTION. 1765. No record of date, place or proceedings. 83 NINETEENTH CONVENTION. 1766. (June 10-13, Tuesday — Friday, Philadelphia.) [Mtthlenberg Journal. MS. I. 21 p. 73 f. A part of the Protocol]. Tuesday, June 10, 1766, a. m., the delegates of tlie United Con- gregations reported, and the pastors, some of whom had arrived yesterday, assembled and held the first conference in the school- house, where, in the morning, were present : 1. Sr. Dr. Wrangel ; 2. H. Muhlenberg ; 3. Mr. Wilhelm Kurtz, ^Minister from Earltown ; 4. Ludwig Voight, Minister from Newburg and Providence ; 5. Joh. Andreas Krug, Minister from Reading ; 6. Emanuel Schultz, ]Minister from Phila- delphia ; 7. Rev. Bryzelius, Minister from New Germantown, in Jersey ; 8. Catechist Johannes Schwarbach, from Culpepper County, in Virginia- After prayer, two letters from deacons and members of congrega- tions in Virginia, dated Culpepper, December 20, 1765, were read. Further, two letters from Augusta County, in Virginia, on Fort Run, dated February 9, and May 17, 1766, in which the forsaken condition of those adhering to our German Evangelical faith is touchingly presented, and the Rev. jMinisterium is supplicated for aid in general, and a partic- ular request is made, that it examine and ordain their Cathechist, Mr. Johannes Schwarbach, whom they have sent hither, a distance of 300 miles, because their children not being baptized are growing into heath- enism, and the older persons, when they die, because of the absence of any ordained preacher, must depart without the Lord's Supper, and thus be without this refreshment of the soul even on their death beds- Since the said Mr. Schwarbach is a man 45 years of age, capable of an hon- orable profession, and has already for some years served the forsaken adherents of the German faith on the frontier of Pennsylvania, with reading, instruction of children, and an edifying walk and convei-sation, according to the measure of grace and gifts given by God, and has now for some time been doing the same in the wilds of Virginia, and lias exerted himnolf to seek out the old and the children, and to odify thorn with catccheticaj. instruction, they petition that, for the sake of Christ and the welfare of souls, a United Evangelical Miuisterium may take 84 TWENTIETH CONVENTION, 1767. 85 pity upon them, examine said man, and if they find in him moderate ability, grant liim authority to administer Holy Baptism and the Lord's Supper, until the Lord of the harvest send faithfid and regular laborers into his harvest, and that said Schwarbach then apply himself to the children alone, and feed them as the lambs. The members of the Min- isterium present, moved by the elders, inquired strictly into the moral character of the man, and found on all sides good testimonials of his Christian life, and unanimously resolved to examine him. The exami- nation was upon the following articles : 1. Of the divine guidance in respect to his own soul, viz : in the course of his life ; 2. Where he was converted ? what induced him to hold instruction for children and to preach ? why he did not like other vagabond preachers also administer the Sacraments ? 3. Of the universal redemption of all the children of Adam through Christ, the Saviour of the world ; 4. What he thinks of repentance, and how man became repentant ? how the preacher has to remove the obstacles in the way to repentance ? 5. What it means to believe on Christ, and what is required for saving faith ? 6. What are unmistakable signs of true conversion, of repentance and of faith ? 7. How he conducted himself in visiting the sick, especially when he had not previously known the sick persons ? How careful a teacher must be that conversion do not arise or be attempted from a servile fear of punishment, but from love to God in Christ? 8. How things went with him in the many journeys hither and thither in the wilderness by day and by night whether he watched over his own soul and prayed ? How he felt in considering the importance of his office, whether he walks in humility before God ? 9. What he held of the Baptism of children and the Lord's Supper? 10. How he refuted the doctrine of absolute pre- destination. [The date as given by Dr. Mann, H. N., n. e. 264, is that of the lay- ing of the foundation stone of Zion's Church, May 16, which was fol- lowed by the laying of the corner-stone and the meeting of the Minis- terium, June 11, cf. H. N., o. e. 1246, n. e. 623]. TWENTIETH CONVENTION. 1767. (Dr. Mann places the meeting in July, but the reference to H. N., 0. e. 1331, does not establish this, and Muhlenberg's diary contains nothing, so far as known.) TWENTY-FIRST CONVENTION. 1768. (November 6, New Hanover. ) [MiTHXENBERG'S DiARY, 1768-1769. MS. pp. 16, ff.] Memoranda: In September, 1768, received the following: Honorable President and Members of the Ministerium Reverendum of the United Evangelical Lutheran Congregations in Pennsylvania, etc. : The building of a new church, begun by the congregation at New Hanover, in the Name and in reliance upon the assistance of Him who can do more than we ask and understand, has, through the strength of the Omnipotent, been accompanied with such desired progress that we will soon see its completion. Hallelujah ! Our earnest wish now is, in the day of His victor)', to sacrifice, in the beauties of holiness, to the Prince of our Salvation, made perfect through suffering and death [cf. Ps. 110 : 3, Heb. 2:10], and also through the power of God to have our souls prepared that we, when we are assured of the promises, and glorified, may sing the new song of Moses. For the accomplishing of so exceedingly important a purpose, we extend our most obedient request to the Reverend Ministerium, to con- secrate our newly built church to the service of Immanuel by prayer, intercession and thanksgiving, and to bring into it, by the proclamation of the saving doctrine of Jesus Christ, glowing coal to enkindle a fire that may burn withTfervor and blessed devotion, in our hearts, as well as in the hearts of our posterity. Our unanimous wish is that this be done on the XXIH Sunday after Trinity, which will be November 6, of the present year. Not only the diligent keeping of unity of the spirit in the bond of peace, but also the celebration of so solemn an act, permits us to hope that the Reverend Ministerium will not refuse to grant our request, but honor us the more with the presence of some members of its respective congregations, whom, as our brethren in the faith, we hereby kindly invite. "With readiness and the oflTering of all possible love in return, we, who sign this, remain. Honorable Prreses and members of the Rev- erend Ministerium, Your most obedient, Lewis Voigt. New Hanover, September 10, 1768. 86 TWENTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1768. 87 Michael Weygel, Adam Wartman, George Burkard, George Beck, Adam Kurtz, Ludwiq Bickel, Moses Binder, Val- entin Stigler, Casimir Misemer, Jacob Eppele, Michael ScHANECKER, Jun., Georg Schweighard, Jacob Kop, Conrad Gilbert, Johannes Schweighard. To be published to the Reverend Ministerium of tlie United Evan- gelical Lutheran congregations in Pennsylvania. Honorable Senior: Besides the friendly request which the entire congregation has sent to the Reverend Ministerium, I venture earnestly and in God's Name, to request the consecration of the new church at this place at the appointed time. Various circumstances render it highly necessary. You will occasion general rejoicing if you will be pleased to make known to the honored members of the IMinisterium, through a circular, the enclosed memorial ; as also to send to the con- gregation at New Hanover a sj^eedy, gracious reply, whether their desires shall be fulfilled or not. If you please to honor me, and, upon your arrival, which is right longingly awaited by all, stop in the recently purchased pareonage, it will be an exceptional pleasure to me to seek to entertain you as far as my poverty permits. With a hearty greeting to your entire family, I remain, Honorable Senior, your, among the poor, poorest servant, Lewis Voigt. New Hanover, September 12, 17G8. Upon the above request, I sent a circular to the most accessible brethren in Pennsylvania, with the following motives and inducements : a, that at the same time a general conference be held, and, b, I hoped that if tiie new laborers, Messrs. Helmuth and Schmidt, would, under God's guidance, arrive, I could bring them along and introduce them to the united laborers. November 4. Friday morning about 11 o'clock, I rode out of Phila- delphia in company with Mr. Heinrich Keppele, Jun., Mr. Zan.points tlie examiners of the candidates to be examined, or of the licentiates, but every member retains the iirivilege of examining afterwards in proper order. CONSTITUTION OF THE MINISTERIUM, 1781. 167 § 17. The Presideut admonishes the brother who erra several timea, privately. If this be without effect, he is reported to the Synodical meeting, which investigates and decides the matter. CHAPTER THIRD. OF THE SECRETAJRY OF SYNOD. § 1. The Secretary of Synod is elected annually from among its members, during the meeting of Synod, after the election of the Presideut. § 2. The Synod must continually take care that the fittest and most learned persons are put into this office, shice many of the documents which they have to prepare will be regarded as the work of the entire Synod, and, therefore, require thoroughly capable persons to frame them. § 3. If the Synod, perchance, should have found the one having held the office previously specially adapted to it, it is not necessary, on this account, to pass him over in the election. § 4. Upon request of the President, the Secretary writes letters, draws up agreements and fiUs out certificates of licensure, ordination, etc. § 6. The Secretary, in the name of the Synod, after the President has signed his name, attests all transactions recorded by his signature. § 6. The Secretary has charge of the Synodical seal and attaches it to such papers as require it. But in every instance the President's signature must be attached beforehand. CHAPTER FOURTH. OF RECEPTION INTO THE MINISTERnjlM. § 1. All those who set their names to this Constitution, and to the agreement (pledge) to be mentioned further on, are members of this Ministerium. As a continued remembrancer, and for the glory of God in the future, when a more imposing array of members of Synod may probably be presented, our present paucity is here at the same time freely acknowledged. The following membership belong to our Synod : Henry Melchoir Muhlenberg (f 1786). Nicolaus Kurtz (dec'd). [1794]. Ludwig Voigt (dec'd). [1800]. Wilhelm Kurtz (f 1798). Job. Andr. Krug (dec'd). [1796]. George Eager (dec'd). [1791]. Emanl. Schulze (dec'd 1808). 16S DOCUMENTAEY HISTORY. Heinricli Helmutli (dec'd). [1825]. Friedr. Scbmidt (f 1813). Job. C. Kunze (f 1807). Carl Fried. Wildbahn (dec'd). [1804]. Jacob V. Buskirk (dec'd). [1800]. Cbristian Strcit (dec'd). [1812.] Heinrlcb Moeller (f 1830). Job. G. Jung (dec'd). [1793]. Pleinricb Mublenberg, Jr. (f 1815). Job. Cbristian Lepp.s (dec'd). Conrad Roeller (dec'd). Samuel Scbwerdfeger (dec'd). [1788]. Jacob Goering (f 1808). Daniel Lebman (f 1810). Daniel Scbroeter (dec'd). Friedr. Ernst (f 1805). Daniel Kurtz . [f 1856]. Friedr. Melsbeimer (f 1814). David Scbaeflfer . [f 1836]. W. Frederici . § 2. In tbose cases in wbich important questions of conscience and points of doctrine are to be investigated and decided only ordained ministers bave a vote, altbougb licensed candidates are, in otber respects, regular and full members. § 3. Tbe minister wbo desires tbe reception of a candidate, and con- sequently tbe granting of a license to bim, is required to present him to the President, giving the same an account of the educational advan- tages enjoyed by the candidate, and of his conduct as observed by him, appending some proof of his capacity, viz., a sermon or theological treatise, which be certainly knows the candidate to bave prepared him- self. In this be makes written application to the President to introduce and i)resent such candidate to the next Synodical Convention. § 4. The candidate having been presented to the assembled Synod by the President, and the most important incidents in the candidate's career having been cited, he withdraws until called again. The Presi- dent then asks whether any one objects to the reception of the candidate. If two-thirds of those present vote for him, he is received. § 5. Those who are sent by a religious establishment, as the Orphans' Home at Halle, or by any Evangelical Consistory of any locality in Europe whatever, upon request, are to be deemed unworthy of recep- tion only if objections made to their reception be declared weighty and "well-founded by a majority of the votes. CONSTITUTION OF THE MINISTEEIUM, 1781. 169 § 6. Every member signg this article or agreement: " I, the undersigned, called as a minister of the Gospel in North America, promise before God and my Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ: " 1. That as long as I serve any congregation in North America, I will not declare myself independent of the Evangelical Ministerium, whose Constitution I have signed ; and that I will obey its rules and regulations. " 2. That I will, as God gives me strength, faithfully obey the Con- stitution of the Ministerium subscribed by me, use the Liturgy to be introduced, and comply with the resolutions of the Synod as long as I exercise the office of a minister in North America ; and that, as much as in me lies, I will promote the observance of the Constitution of the Ministerium by others. " 3. That I will not absent myself from any meeting of Synod with- out urgent necessity. " 4. That I will never consent to receive any minister whom I know to be unfit because of a lack of attainments, or of an immoral life, into our Synodical connection. " 5. That, unless for well-founded reasons, and impelled by conscience, I will never oppose the reception of any candidate or minister into the Ministerium. " 6. That I will not rudely refuse reproofs from the President, but even in case of an inward consciousness of innocence I will submit to them ; and in case of an abiding consciousness of having been wrongly judged by the President, I will appeal to the judgment of the Synod, with whose decision I expect to be satisfied ; and I will neither denounce the President nor treat him unkindly because of his censures. " 7. That \p. case two-thirds of the Synod should declare me no longer worthy to be a member of the Evangelical Ministerium of North America, and consequently to have a scat and vote in a Synod, I will then give up my congregations, and no longer exercise the functions of a minister in any of the United Evangelical Lutheran Congregations of North America." To this the signature is to be attached. § 7. Every candidate and every minister about being received, after having entered into this compact, also attaches his name to this Consti- tution of the Ministerium. Provision is on this account to be made that every minister be furnished with a copy thereof, so that he may always know precisely to what he has obligated himself; and, flirther, that the President always have at hand, among the other documents of Synod, a copy for general use, to which every one received now or hereatler may attach his name. 170 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. § 8. Whenever a candidate lias received his training from one of the United Ministers, that one, and none other, must be the one to recom- mend him to the President for reception. CHAPTER FIFTH. OF THE jrEETINGS OF THE SYINOD AND THE BUSINESS TBAKTSACTED THEREAT. § ] . At least one meeting of the Synod must be held annually. If the Ministerium itself has not determined with reference to the time and place of its next meeting, that is left to the President. § 2. No one of the brethren associated together is allowed to absent himself without the most urgent necessity, and should a case of such urgent necessity occur, a written excuse must be sent in. § 3. Whoever does not appear personally, or else present a written excuse, is called to account therefor by the President at the next meet- ing of the Synod. This must be done publicly, in the presence of the entire Synod. § 4. Whoever does not appear personally, or else present a written excuse, for three successive meetings, shall be expelled from the Associa- tion, and shall be regarded as one who has violated his pledge, unless sickness should each time have prevented him from writing, and consequently he have caused himself to be excused verbally. § 5. The Pastor loci provides in advance lodgings for the ministers, and for the keeping of their horses. If there should be any for whom he could not make arrangements, they are to be entertained at the expense of the common Treasury, or by contributions. § 6. The ministers are required, if possible, to be at the place of meeting in good time on the day preceding, so that the President may be able to assign the sermons appropriately. No minister is justified in leaving before the actual closing of the Synod by the President, unless a case of great urgency should constitute it an exception. § 7. The ministers dine together in a body at the expense of the Treasury as long as the meeting continues. The President each day appoints two to offer at some length prayers in behalf of all the congregations, one before, and one after dinner. Such as do not preach are appointed to offer these prayers. In the morning and evening, the ministers take their meals at the place of lodging. This matter will be arranged as soon as the Synodical Treasury, which is to be provided for, will allow. § 8. The business sessions of Synod begin precisely at 9 a.m., and continue until 1 p.m.; and at 3 p.m. and continue until (5 p.m., unless when matters of special importance require an extension of time. CONSTITUTION OF THE MINISTERIUM, 1781, 171 § 9. At the pltice where the meeting of Synod is held, there shall be three services on Sunday and one on every week-day evening. In the country, the service is omitted on Sunday evening, and during the week it is held in the morning at 9 o'clock. § 10. The ministers open their business sessions with a hymn and prayer — in the afternoon with a prayer only. This opening prayer in the morning and in the afternoon is offered kneeling. The President appoints those offering these prayers. They are not to be the same persons to whom sermons have been assigned, or those who have already offered prayer. The last session of the second day is closed with prayer by the President. § 11. After the prayer, the President lays before the meeting a pro- gramme of all the matters to be acted upon. Every minister who has anything to add now announces it, so that it may be noted down. § 12. After completing the programme the Secretary, by direction of the President, reads the Minutes of the former meeting. After this reading some further time is given, both for the making of observations in regard to them, and also for the enlargement of the programme referred to in § 11. § 13. After the reading of the Minutes the next item is the presenta- tion of the Annual Settlement, as soon as that matter has been properly arranged. At this point, receipts and expenditures are plainly set forth by the President, or, at his request, by the Secretary. After some inci- dental remarks have been made in regard to it, the principal items of expenditure for the coming year are determined as far as possible, and the account is signed by the President, Secretary, and some of the members of Synod present. § 14. After the rendering of the account, the Synod at once occupies itself with the business of the delegates of the congregations, those from the most distant points having precedence, and those living nearest waiting until the last. § 15. The President is required individually to grant the delegates of the congregations a separate hearing, but not decide what they present to them, for he is required to lay before the meeting all the items gath- ered from the delegates, having any bearing on their requests. § 16. The President is required to cause the Secretary to read all letters referring to congregational affairs received by him, either before or during the meeting of the Synod. It is self-evident that those com- munications are not here included, in which, perchance, certain congre- gations or church officers, regarding the President as a private individual, and as one of the most experienced ministers, ask special advice in doubtful matters. 172 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. § 17. It is the President's duty to present publicly to tlie Synod those delegates desiring it, or even to have them called in at the request of the members. § 18. The President is required to see to it that every item be con- sidered and discussed, and as soon as no further remarks are made concerning it, to select from the various comments and suggestions presented, that which seems to him most thoroughly adapted for its adjustment, and have it voted upon. If this be rejected by the major- ity, he takes the next best, or even that which now for the first time seems to himself the surest mode of adjustment, or what is now for the first time offered by some one else. While the vote is being taken, no further remarks are permitted, but for the expediting of the schemes proposed, a simple aye or no. § 19. In case the President and Secretary should have too much wridng to do, in writing out and recording the transactions of Synod, it may, at their request, elect several assistant Secretaries, whose term of ofl[ice continues only during the meeting. These must at all times be thorough scholars, except where mere copying of business transacted is to be done, when the best penmen are to be selected. § 20. In case a matter to be acted upon should seem too difficult to be decided at once, it can be postponed for further consideration, if the majority so decide, and the determining thereof deferred from the first day to the second, or to the third, or from one meeting to the next, one year hence, or from the regular meeting of Synod to the next special meeting, to the district to which it belongs, as the nature of the matter under consideration may seem to require. § 21. After finishing the business with the delegates, the remaining items of the programme are acted upon in the order in which they are recorded, whether they refer to congregational affairs, to matters of conscience, for the decision of which the Synod generally appoints a committee of the oldest, most experienced and most learned ministers, who must sit during those remaining hours in which Synod is not in session, or in reference to complaints on account of the doctrine and life of the brethren lodged with the President and presented by him. The Synod always endeavors to so arrange the programme that con- gregational affairs may l)e considered first, then questions of conscience which may be presented, and fin-ally the conplaints entered. That which is laid down in Chapter 4, § 2, and is there made of gen- eral application, holds with reference to decisions in respect to this latter point. § 22. In complaints brought against ministers the subject of investi- gation must refer to : CONSTITUTION OF THE MINISTERIUM, 1781. 173 1. Positive errors opposed to the plain teachings of the Holy Scrip- tures and our Symbolical Books. 2. Works of flesh, Gal. 5: 19 ff, and offense given thereby. 3. Faithlessness and slothfulness in the ministry, and, in case of a candidate, also in those matters which are known to be necessary for his further preparation. 4. Neglecting attendance upon the meetings of Synod. 5. Bitterness and strife of ministers among themselves. § 23. The process of investigation is this : The President distinctly presents the heads of charges to the Synod, hears the witnesses in its presence, then gives an opportunity for remarks pro and con, allowing every one to express his opinion as his final judgment in the mat- ter. The President and the Secretary must be very careful to recog- nize that judgment which is heard most frequently, as the prevalent one. § 24. The effect resulting from the decision must be limited to the following points : 1. The accused person, against whom no two or three credible wit- nesses appear, and against whom there is no other evidence of proba- bility, is acquitted, and regarded as one against whom no complaint was ever brought. 2. Whosoever is found guilty in matters not of too gi*oss a character, either by evidence of strong probability or upon the declaration of two or three witnesses, is publicly reprimanded by the President in the presence of Synod, or if the one found guilty be not present, he is most earnestly admonished, by means of a written document, prepared in the name of the entire Synod. Others of the brethren also add a word of reproof verbally. 3. In matters of a graver nature, and which have occasioned offence, such as would be irrevocable in their nature, he who is found guilty in the manner above indicated, is excluded from the Minis- terium. The committee adjudicating the case renders its decision to that effect, but the decision cannot be carried into effect without the assent of two- thirds of all the members of Synod. But in case of the subsequent ratification by the above-named two-thirds of Synod — in which case those also who rendered the decision as a committee have a vote as well as ordained members of S}niod, although the latter cannot serve on the committee — the sentence must be executed without fail. The Synod cannot make the sentence pronounced by the committee severer, but it may be modified by the assent of two-thirds. To follow the intention in this instance closely, and to know in how far the 174 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. sentence is to be modified, the President proceeds in this particular as has been indicated in this chapter, § 18, with this difference, that that which the President submits to vote is not binding without having been endorsed by two-thirds. If none of the motions proposed and voted upon, should be able to secure the endorsement of two-thirds, the verdict of the committee stands. § 25. After the transaction of matters of the kind referred to in § 21, the assembled ministers confer with one another concerning the blessings attending their labors, or the difficulties met with in their sacred office, each one also giving a detailed report of baptisms, con- firmations, burials, communicants. Absent members likewise transmit this information in their letters of excuse. At this point the diaries of the licensed candidates are likewise read. § 26. Whenever examinations, the granting of licenses, or ordinations of licensed candidates occur, these items of business are transacted immediately after the edifying conference as to official experiences and the reading of the diaries. § 27. Every candidate desiring to be received must first undergo a brief examination in the ancient languages and theology, and then only does he receive a license. Before the ordination, however, the licensed candidate submits himself to a stricter examination, in which written questions are answered also in writing. The former may be called a test ; the latter, an examination. § 28. No license is allowed to remain in force longer than until the next convention of Synod. It can then be renewed, if deemed proper. "Extended " will then be written underneath, with the day and date of the year, and, finally, the name of the President and the Secretary. § 29. Candidates who have received license are allowed to preach, to catechise, to administer the Holy Sacraments, but these acts dare not be performed in any congregations beyond those designated in the docu- ment named. § 30. That licensed candidate who is convinced that, by jirivate application, he has advanced sufficiently to be able to undergo the examination referred to above in § 27 may, in a spirit of meekness, make known his desire to be ordained in open session, but never with- out the afore-mentioned conviction as to a knowledge of the ancient languages and theology. No one Avill in future be ordained Avitliout both these requirements, unless in a very extraordinaiy instance, or the most urgent necessity. § 31. Ordination is administered according to the circumstances of the case, either publicly in the Church or in Synodical Meeting, not out- CONSTITUTION OF THE MINISTERIUM, 1781. 175 side the Church, without the most weighty reasons ; iu fact, never in sjjecial conferences, unless it should have been committed to a committee by the entire Synod. § 32. The election of the President and the Secretary, together with the fixing of the time and place of the next meeting, all of which are decided by a majority of votes, constitute the close of the business. § 33. Last of all, the ministers dwelling close together in one county or district confer, in regard to special meetings or conferences to be appointed, concerning which the details may be determined in due time by resolutions of Synod. Whenever a special matter has been referred to a conference of that kind, such conference must be positively deter- mined upon, and with the knowledge of all the others. CHAPTER SIXTH. OP THE CONDUCT OP THE MINISTERS IN THEIR OFFICIAL AND OTHER RELATIONS. § 1. Every minister must earnestly endeavor to introduce into his congregations a constitution which corresponds as nearly as possible with those already in use, and which must not conflict with the Constitution of this Ministerium in any point. § 2. Every minister professes that he holds the Word of God and our Symbolical Books in doctrine and life ; that he so exercises his office that he may stand before his Great Shepherd, rejoicing in the great Day of Judgment, as well as promises to remain forever worthy of the fellowship of the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium of North America. 3. Every minister uses the Liturgy which has been introduced. 4. No minister is allowed to encroach upon another's oflace, under whatever pretext it may be, without the other's consent. In actually vacant congregations an ordained minister is allowed to preach and administer the Holy Sacraments as often as he pleases, provided this can be done without neglect of his own pastoral duties. So, too, every ordained minister is at liberty to give up his congregations at his dis- cretion, and to move into other actually vacant congregations which purpose connecting with us : provided, he do not thereby interfere with any other connection, and, also, that the change, when made, be, in every instance, communicated to the President. § 5. No minister is allowed to conform himself to the world in his walk and conversation. § 6. Licensed candidates must carefully record their official acts in a diary, which is handed over at each meeting of the Synod. 176 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 9 11 13 15 1. 3. KiCOLAUS KURZ, 5. John Andreas Krug, 7. Emanuel Schulze, Heinrich Helmuth, Carl Friedrich Wildbahn, Christian Streit, 2. 4. 6. 8. 10. 12. 14. 16. 17. HeinrichMuehlenberg, Jiin. 18. 19. Conrad Roeller, 20. 21. Jacob Goering, 22. 23. Daniel Schroeter, 24. 25. JoHANN Michael Enterline, 26. 27. Fr. Val. Melsheimer, 28. 29. SO. ludwig voigt, George Eager, Friedrich Schmidt, JOHANN C. KuNZE, Jacob V. Buskirk, Heinrich ]\Ioeller, JoHANN Georg Jung, Johann Christian Leps, Samuel Schwerdfeger, Daniel Lehman, Friedrich Ernst, Danl. Kurz, F. David Schefer. THIRTY-FOURTH CONVENTION. 1781. [June 10, 12, Philadelphia.] 1. June 10th the members of the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium in North America assembled. Philadelphia was the place. They went to the church in procession. Rev. Henry Muhlenberg, Jr., preached in the morning in Zion's Church ; Rev. Mr. Schroeter in St. Michael's Church In the afternoon. Rev. Mr. Krug in Zion's Church, and in the evening. Rev. Mr. Lehman. June 11th, the Monday following, they again assembled and went to Zion's Church, where Senior Muhlenberg preached. After the sermon the Synod was opened in Rev. Mr. Kunze's house. Members present were : Mr. Henrich Muhlenberg, Sen. Rev. Mr. Hartwig and Mr. William Kurz, from Lebanon. " Krug, from Fredrlckstown. " Voigt, from Pikeland. " Schulze, from Tulpehaken. " Helmuth, from Philadeli^hia. " Schmidt, from Germantown. " Buschkirk, from Macunshy. " Friderici. *' Kunze, from Philadelphia. " Friederich Muhlenberg. " Henrich Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. " Jung, from Hegerstown. " Gering, from Dover. " Lehman, from Misillum. " Schroter, from Manheim. " Ernst, from Easttown. " Moller, in Philadelphia, Licent. " Franz, from "Whitehall, Licent. After all fhe preachers had cast themselves down before the face of the Lord and asked His blessing, there was read a letter from the Presi- 12 177 178 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. dent, Kicolaus Kurz, in wbich he stated that he could not attend the meeting of Synod this time, and requested that another President be chosen. Thereupon, they proceeded to the election, and for this and the following year were chosen : As President, Rev. Mr. Emanuel Schulze. As Secretary, Rev. Henrich Muhlenberg, Jun. Then each reported those matters, which were to be considered : Concerning 1, Warwick ; 2, a union with the so-called High Church ; 8, Reading ; 4, Mr. Miiller ; 5, Mr. Friderici ; 6, Carlisle, Shippens- town, Chamberstown, in Pennsylvania ; 7, several congregations in Westmoreland, in Virginia ; 8, Holland ; 9, a letter from Mauheim ; 10, StaufTerstown and neighboring congregations ; 11, Allenstown, Dry Land, L'ish Settlement and Indianland ; 12, a petition to the Assembly against the existing custom of making oath too common by demanding it too frequently ; 13, New Hanover ; 14, Mr. Franz ; 15, !Mr. Ernst ; 16, a letter from a certain man named Beil ; 17, the Constitution of the Ministerium. These points were immediately taken up : Ad. I. Resolved, That Rev. Mr. Schulze make efforts to unite the congregation, to serve it and gradually bring it into full connection with us. As ISIr. Schroeter hereby has one congregation less, a letter from New Holland and two other congregations with reference to a union was handed in by a delegate. They asked also for Mr. Schroeter as their pastor. The answer to the letter was postponed until the 8th point. 3 o'clock, p. m. Ad. II. Resolved, to invite Rev. Mr. White* to a friendly conference. Rev. Mr. Helmuth's house was appointed for this purpose, and Rev. Mr. White appeared, but nothing definite could be accomplished. III. From Reading a letter was read, in which they asked, under cer- tain conditions, for Mr. Melsheimer, a chaplain of the Brunswick troops. Resolved, to inform the congregation that Mr. Melsheimer was not yet received as a member of the INIinisterium, and therefore nothing could be decided concerning him ; but as we regard him as a friend, whose merits we appreciate, we will not consider it a rupture of the union l)etween the Reading congregation and us, if they call him to be their pastor. Moreover, we give them liberty to ask any one of the members of the Ministerium, provided that such a step be at the same time reported to the President. ' [Afterwards Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church.] THIRTY-FOURTU CONVENTION, 1781. 179 IV. Resolved, To give a hearing to Mr. Miiller tlirough a com" mittee. Senior Muhlenberg, P. Voigt and Buschkirk were appointed. After the report was received, INIr. Miiller was given the friendly advice, to refrain from pastoral duties until the matter was decided. V. Each of the preachers promised to report to the President if in his neighborhood, a suitable place might be found for Mr. Friderici. Herewith the first day was ended, and the preachers went to church, and heard Rev. Mr. Schulze preach. June 12. Ad. VI. Rev. Mr. Jung explained the need of these congregations, and reported that they would be well able to keep a pastor of their own. Resolved, that the neighboring preachers be requested to visit these congregations as often as possible, and administer the sacraments, and the congregations be exhorted to keep a Reader, who shall be able to attend to the instruction of children, to lead the singing, etc. VII. These congregations are situated towards Pittsburgh, Redstone is the chief place. They own 300 acres of good land, but they need a man who is strong and can ride much, because they are scattered. Resolved to give the same answer as previously. VIII. Rev. Mr. Schroeter was advised to serve the congregations. IX. These congregations declared their satisfaction with Rev. Mr. Schroeter, and requested that he be not removed ; which request was granted. X.-XI. The congregations are strong, and desire to be supplied with pastors. Resolved, that we deeply regret the lack of pastors, and must repeat the advice given above under number VI. XII. A memorial was presented to the Assembly, after being signed by all the preachers. XIII. Senior Miihlenberg and Rev. Mr. Voigt were commissioned to investigate the matter, to help the congregation as they were able, and the advice as above number VI was given also to this congregation. XV. The congregations in and about Easttown, declared their satis- faction with Rev. Mr. Ernst. June 12, 3 p. m. n. XIV. A letter of recommendation having been received, the license of Mr. Lie. Frantz was continued. XVI. This IMr. Biel desires ordination and reception into the Minis- terium. His letter showed sufficiently that his request could not be granted. 180 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY. XVII. Resolved, that the Constitution be signed without any change and at the earUest opportunity. Finally place and time for the Synodical meeting of next year were appointed, viz. : Lancaster as the place and the first Sunday in June, i. e., first Sunday after Trinity, as the time. All the preachers uniting in prayer pledged themselves to continued brotherly love, and again at evening went to church. Rev. ]\Ir. Jung preached the closing sermon, and Rev. Mr. Kuntze dismissed the meet- ing with the benediction. That the above is a summary of the transactions of the Synodical meeting of this year, we witness : Emanuel Schulze, Henrich Muhlenberg, Jun., Frees. Se&relary. THIRTY-FIFTH CONVENTION, 1783. June 3, 4. — Lancaster. June 1. The members of the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium assembled at Lancaster. 2. As it was the first Sunday after Trinity, they went to the Church of the Holy Trinity, and the President, Pastor Schulze preached on the Gospel. In the afternoon, Rev. Mr. Jung edified the congregation, his text being I Tim. 4 : 8, and in the evening Rev. Mr. Lehman, from II Cor. 7: 10. 3. On the following Monday, there was another sermon by Pastor Nicol. Kurtz on Acts 26 : 18. After the sermon the Synodical meet- ing was opened. The members present were : Rev. Mr. Nicol. Kurtz, from Yorktown. Ludwig Voigt, from Pikeland. Andreas Krug, from Friderickstown. Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken — Praes. Heinrich Helmuth, from Philadelphia. Joh. Georg. Jung, from Hegerstown. Conrad Roller, from Indianfield. Jacob Gering, from Dover. Daniel Lehman, from the Misillum. Daniel Schroeter, from Manheira. Friederich Ernst, from Greenwich. Michael Enderlein, from Shamokin. and I, as Pastor loci, Henr. Muhlenberg. N. B. — Pastor Harting also attended. Letters of excuse were received from Pastors Eager, Wilte, Kurz and Kunze. June 3, a. m. Each of the members present handed in the various matters which were to be considered. 1, concerning Greenwich, Easttown and congregations belonging to 181 182 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. these; 2, Rev. Mr. "Wildbahn's former congregations; 3, Mauheim, Modecriek, Newholland and the Bergstrasse ; 4, Reading ; 5, Mr. En- derlein ; 6, the Constitution of the Ministeriura ; 7, the Catechism ; 8, a new Hymn Book ; 9. Mr. Moller ; 10, Rev. Mr. Buschkirk and a Mr. Beil ; 11, Falkner's Swamp ; 12, a certain Mr. Butler. Hereupon the delegates were called in, and in part questioned con- cerning several points that had been reported. 1. In regard to No. 1, there was a delegate from Greenwich, who brought a written testimonial, and by it, as well as by word of mouth, gave evidence of the highest satisfaction with Rev. Mr. Ernst. 2. Of Mr. Wildbahn's former congregations : They present a petition for a new preacher, to whom they promised £75 and a dwelling. 3. Of Manheim : They requested that Rev. ]\Ir. Schroeter be relieved of his excessive work in other congregations, so that he might have ser- vice there every three weeks and diligently attend to the instruction of children. A delegate from Modecriek [Muddy Creek] requested that Mr. Schroeter, with whom they were thoroughly satisfied, be allowed to retain them. 4. Delegates from the Bergstrasse and Newholland desire services every two weeks from Mr. Schroeter, but regret to testify that on the Bergstrasse indeed the larger, but in Newholland the smaller part of the congregation is in favor of Mr. Schroeter. 5. From Hegerstown, there appeared one who had accompanied Rev. Mr. Jung, and reported the satisfaction of the congregation at that place with him. 6. From Reading, a delegate handed in a letter, and also by word of mouth, asked for Rev. Mr. Wildbahn. 7. From Falkner Swamp, a delegate handed in a petition for a preacher. 8. From Machanai Township, two delegates were present, and brought various complaints against Mr. Enderlein. June 3rd, 1782, p. m. In the afternoon were taken up, first : N. 3. And finally. Resolved, That Mr. Schroeter serve the congrega- tions in Newholland, on the Bergstrasse and Modecriek one year more, if tlie congregations will furnish the necessary support, and that Rev. Miililenberg, of Lancaster, visit these congregations several times, in order, if possible, to bring about peace. N. 5. After a long examination of the complaints and of Mr. Ender- lein, it was resolved that the new Church Constitution which Mr. Ender- lein wished to introduce be withdrawn for the present, and that both THIRTY-FIFTH CONVENTION, 1782. 183 parties make concessions and bear with each other in patience. Mr. Enderleiu promised to do his best in this direction, and in case the congregation were thrown into confusion by his remaining, he would rather give it up altogether. N. 12. Mr. Butler brought a recommendation from the congregation on the Octorara, and asked to be admitted into the Ministerium. An- swer was given him : 1. That, by reason of lack of sufficient acquaintance and on account of offence given, he could not be received. 2. That he should not be forbidden to preach and baptize children, in cases of necessity, so long as he led an orderly, Christian life. 3. That he should entirely refrain from the distribution of the Holy Communion and the confirmation of those instructed. Rev. Muhlenberg promised to attend to both of these whenever re- quested. N. 6. The Constitution of the Ministerium was again read and signed, after a few slight changes (cap. 2, § 14 ; cap. 4, § 6 ; cap. 5, §30). The first day being thus ended, all the preachers went to church, through a heavy storm, and heard Rev. Mr. RoUer preach on Jer. 47 : 6-7. June 4th, a. m. After the customary prayer, the following points were taken up : N. 4. The letter from Reading petitioned for Rev. Mr. Wildbahn, who promised to take the congregation, which he was unanimously advised to do. N. 5. These congregations, which are very scattered, were advised to apply to Rev. Mr. Wilhelm Kurz or Mr. Schroeter, and ask for an occasional sermon. (Gastpredigt). N. 6. Resolved, to have the Ministerial Order and the common Church Agende printed ; the latter remains as it is, except that the formula of Confirmation, as introduced in Wiirttemberg, be added. June 4th, p. m. N. 8. Unanimously resolved to have a new Hymn Book printed for our United Congregations. Resolved, that Revs. IMiihlenberg, Sen., Kunze, Helmuth and Miihl- enberg, Jun., be a committee to prepare this for print. Resolved, that the committee be strictly bound by the following rules: 1. As far as possible to follow the arrangement of the Halle Hymn Book. 184 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 2. Kot to omit any of the old standard hymns, especially of Luther and Paul Gerhard. 3. To omit the Gospels and Epistles for Apostles' Days, j\Iinor Festi- vals, and the History of the Destruction of Jerusalem, to^^ether with the collection of Prayers and the Catechism. 4. To report all this together with incidental changes, e. g., in the Litany to a special meeting of Synod. 5. Not to admit more than 750 hymns into the collection. Resolved, that for this Hymn Book, a brief Prayer Book, with morn- ing and evening prayers, prayers for the sick and for communion, be pre- pared. Rev. Mr. Helmuth was unanimously chosen to prepare this, and instructed to present it to the special meeting of Synod for approbation. Resolved, that Mr. Steiner print the whole work, using the Freierian orthography, and Rev. Mr. Helmuth read the proof Resolved, that Senior Muhlenberg prepare the Preface, and that it be signed by all the United Preachers. N. 7. Concerning the Catechism, it was resolved, after mature consid- eration, that no changes whatever should be undertaken except with the approval of the Synod, in particular that in the next edition: 1. The edition of H. Miiller, 1774, be taken as the basis ; 2. That from it pages 1-64, 69-89, 94, 123-144, be printed without change, and the rest be dropped ; 3. From Steiner's edition of 1781 pages 35-47 be reprinted, after some few slight changes ; 4. All quotations from Catechism in the "Wiirttemberg formula of Confirmation be altered to conform with this Catechism. Resolved, that this Catechism be generally introduced, and, as far as possible, remain unchanged. N. 9. Concerning Mr. Moller, there were read a letter of recommen- dation by Rev. Mr. Kunze, and a call from two English congregations in Jersey, and hereupon resolved : " That Senior Muhlenberg, Pastors Voigt, Schmidt and Roller be appointed a committee to meet at Providence by July 30th, and examine and ordain Mr. Moller." N. 1. Rev. ]\Ir. Ernst reported that he had been forced to give up the congregation at Easttown, which had taken a vagabond [as pastor]. His reasons were considered sufficient, and the other congregations were exhorted to use his services as before. j^. 10. A testimonial signed by many members of the congregation was read, in which Rev. Mr. Buschkirk was praised for bis faithfulness in duty, and the Synod was petitioned not to receive Mr. Boil as a member. N. 11. Had come up already on the first day, but neither then nor THIRTY-FIFTH CONVENTION, 1782. 185 now could help be promised. The congregation was, however, advised to be patient, or to apply directly to one or the other of the United Preachers on whom the choice of the congregation may fall. Finally, by majority of votes, Rev. INIr. Emanuel Schulze was appointed President, Rev. Muhlenberg, Jun., Secretary, and Yorktown as the place of the Synodical meeting, on the Festival of the Trinity, i. e., 15th of June, 1783. The pastors united in prayer and song, pledg- ing themselves to continued brotherly love and faithfulness in the dis- charge of their ministerial duties. Then they went to church, where Rev. Mr. Helmuth delivered an edifying closing sermon on I Cor. 2 : 2, and the preachers were dismissed by the pastor loci with thanks and benedictions. That the above all occurred thus, we witness with our own signature : Em. Schulze, Henr. INIuHLENBERG, JuN., President. Secretary. THIRTY-SIXTH CONVENTION. 1783. June 15-17, York, June 15th, it being the Festival of the Trinity, the following of all the invited members of the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium appeared at Yorktown : Mr. Nicolaus Kurz, Pastor loci. " Andreas Krug, from Fried richstatt, " Georg Eager, from McCal lister. " Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken, President. " Jacobus V. Buskirk, from INIacunshy. " Carl Friedr. Wildbahn, from Reading. " Johan Christ. Kunze, from Philadelphia. " Christian Streit, from New Hanover. " Henrich Muhlenberg, Jun., from Lancaster. " Job. Christian Leps, from Northampton. " Jacob Gering, in Yorktown. " Daniel Schroeter, from Maccallister. " Friederich Ernst, from Greenwich. Absent members who sent letters of excuse were : Senior IMiihlenberg. Past. Helmuth. " Wilh. Kurz. '•• Moller. Lie. Enderlein. Rev. Mr. Lehman sent an oral excuse. At 10 o'clock A. M., all the preachers went in procession to the church, and I*ast. Kunze ])reached a sermon on I Cor. 3:9. " Preachers as fellow- workers with God." In the afternoon, at 2 o'clock, Rev. Mr. Ernst preached on John 12 : 26. " The blessedness of the true servants of Christ," and in the evening 186 THIKTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1783, 187 Rev. jSIiilileiiberg on Luke 24 : 46 ff. " Repentance and forgiveness of sin through Christ." After the latter sermon the preachers assembled in the parsonage, and after they had bowed before God in prayer, there appeared a man named Wade, who formerly had preached in some English congrega- tions belonging to the High Church. He presented testimonials and a petition, and earnestly requested that the Ministerium examine and or- dain him. Senior Miihlenbcrg and Pastor Helmuth had earnestly re- commended him as to his good character and life. The following ques- tions were given him in writing, to be answered by next morning. 1. How can an (uneducated) ordinary man be most easily convinced of the authenticity and the divine origin of Holy Scripture ? 2. How is the genuineness of the Biblical books proved ? 3. How the baptism of children ? 4. What is his idea of the Holy Communion ? 5. The eternity of the punishment of hell — how is it proved ? 6. How the necessity of conversion is to be declared to those who are merely respectable and externally Christians ? June 16th, a. m. Nine o'clock. A certain Mr. Paul Hinkel, in the name of several con- gregations, earnestly asked for license to preach and baptize children. He was examined in Christian doctrine and found fairly proficient, and as he showed evidence of a Christian character and life, it was re- solved further to consider his case. Ten o'clock. The preachers again went to church, and President Schulze, preaching on II Tim. 4:2 ff., presented " The picture of an Evangelical preacher, who fulfills his office well." June IGth, p, m. There appeared a man named Butler, of whom mention was made at the last Syuodical Meeting, and begged earnestly for admission into the Ministerium. As his character before his assumption of the ministerial office was very poor, indifferent, and furthermore, no signs of a true improvement were noticed, it was unanimously resolved : That he must forever be regarded incapable of serving in the minis- terial office. That he be advised to serve as school teacher. 3 o'clock. The Protocol of the preceding year was read and signed, and then those matters handed in which were to be considered and dis- cussed this time, viz. : 1, concerning the above-mentioned Paul Hinkel ; 2, a letter from Earltown and Strasburg ; 3, a letter from the congre- 188 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. gation on the Jordan ; 4, a letter from Manheim, Mountjoy, Elisabeth- town and Maytown ; 5, a letter from Rev. Mr. Helmuth ; 6, the con- gregations in Ober Permudian, Unter Permudian, Dover, Paradise, Carlisle and Lower Settlement ; 7, the new Hymn Book and Catechism ; 8, a question from Rev. Mr. Ernst ; 9, A letter from Rev. Mr. Moller ; 10, a question from Rev. Mr. Schroeter ; 11, Church Penance ; 12, spe- cial Conferences ; 14, concerning Mr. Wade ; 14, question concerning the Streit legacy. . . . After mature consideration and private conferences with Mr. Hinkel, it was: 1. Resolved, To grant a license for preaching and the baptism of children, and give it to Pastor Krug, who shall give it to Mr. Hinkel as soon as he can show a regular call from one and the other of the dis- tant congregations and has signed a suitable "revers." The contents of the revers are : (1). To preach the Word of God in its purity, according to Law and Gospel, as it is explained in its chief points in the Ausburg Confession and the other Symbolical Books. (2). Diligently to instruct children, visit the sick, care for souls and administer Holy Baptism according to the command of Christ. (3). Diligently to exercise himself in knowledge. (4). To adorn his office with a Christian life. (5). Not to leave or go beyond the congregations which were entrusted to him in the license. (6). To record the most noteworthy occurrences of his ministry in a journal and annually present this to the Synodical Meeting, also to ap- pear personally as often as asked. (7). To renew the license annually. 2. Earltown asks to be supplied with a preacher, and Strasburg desires to share in the services of this preacher. Resolved, that they be free to apply to any one of the preachers in the Ministerium, as none of the brethren present has decided to take the place. 3. The congregations on the Jordan also asked for a preacher, as they had been deserted by their former pastor. Resolved, to return the same answer as above, and recommend them to the neighboring pastors. 4. The congregations at Manheim, etc., asked for Rev. Mr. ]Moller in particular, which was granted them, with the admonition to apply to him directly, and to make better provision for their preacher than here- tofore. 6. These congregations are at present vacant, since their former pastor, Rev. Mr. Gering, has moved to Yorktowu, to become the THIRTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1783. 189 assistant of his father-in-law, Pastor Kurz. They evidence a desire for Rev. Mr. Ernst. They were referred to him, with the assurance that the Ministerium wished them great blessing, if it could be so arranged to the satisfaction of both parties. Rev. Mr. Ernst undertook to visit these congregations on his way home. The preachers went to church in the evening, at 6 o'clock, and heard Mr. Wade preach an English sermon, on Tit. 2 : 14. June 17th, a. m. 13. Mr. Wade handed in his answers to the questions given him. They were not quite satisfactory, especially on the subject of the Holy Communnion. Hereupon it was resolved : That the whole matter be referred to a committee of five preachers, who shall decide it conscientiously according to their best knowledge. Their instruction reads thus : " You shall desire Mr. Wade to call once or twice at a convenient time at your own respective houses, in order to be instructed in some of the doctrines of the Evangelical persuasion, and particularly in the proper sense, which our church entertains of the Lord's Supper, Bap- tism, Predestination, etc., and as soon as you find him sufficiently acquainted therewith, he assuring you in the presence of God of the sincerity of his persuasion in this and all other respects, you shall ordain him according to the Ritual of our Church, and take such a revers, as shall be prepared for that purpose." [The English verbatim from the Protocol]. The committee appointed for this purpose consists of the Pastors — Senior Muhlenberg, Schmidt, Helmuth, Kunze and Streit, who all or three of them are empowered to carry out this resolution. 5. Rev. Mr. Helmuth's letter was read, in which he reported various circumstances referring to the new Hymn Book, Prayer Book and Cat- echism, therefore the seventh point was immediately taken up. 7. Concerning the new Hymn Book it was resolved: (1). That the number of copies be fixed at 1000; (2). The Destruction of Jerusalem and the Catechism of Luther remain without additions ; (3). The Litany to be transferred into the Prayer Book ; (4). The committee appointed last year shall again meet on the second Tuesday in September at Philadelphia, complete the entire collection, and with the consent of the other members of the Ministerium who may be present, give it unto the hands of the printer, and that (5). The preface prepared by Senior Muhlenberg be printed un- 190 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY. clianged, with a slight addition from Pliny concerning the hymns of the early Christians. The Catechism shall be printed as decided last year. Mr. Kunze undertook to attend to this. 8. Rev. Mr. Ernst asked how he was to deal with certain public slanderers, whether he should bring them before the authorities or not The former is asked for by the majority of one of his congregations. He was advised — (1). He should secure a testimonial of his conduct from those preach- ers who had most come in contact with him before his ordination. Pas- tors Schulze, Kunze and Muhlenberg did this in full conviction that the accusations were groundless. (2). For the present he should not bring it before the authorities, but for Christ's sake bear everything in patience. (3). If the congregations are not satisfied with these decisions, he shall yield in God's name, and accept other congregations which earnestly desire him. 9. Rev. Mr. Moller wrote of a very remarkable blessing in his con- gregations and reported something concerning the Methodists in his neighborhood. Pastor Kunze was commissioned to convey to him our gratification with the progress of the past, and also to remind him to be careful in his dealings with the Methodists. June 17th, p. m. 10. Rev. Mr. Schroeter asked what he was to do in the case of sev- eral congregations, where the church register and the collections are held in common by Lutherans and Reformed. As the collections are used for the repair and preservation of the church building, it was ad- vised that for the sake of j)eace which is so necessary, he leave every- thing m statu quo. 11. Concerning Church Penance. — After much discussion the reso- lution frequently passed was renewed : That whoever has openly sinned against the Sixth Commandment be excluded from the Holy Communion and right to stand as sponsor, and not be restored to these rights until, by a public confession, he declare his repentance. Various (luestions were brought up in connection with this, e. g., whether illegimate children should be baptized before the parents or one of them have submitted to Church Penance ; but these questions were postponed for further consideration at some future time. 12. The present congregations are divided into Districts, and it is most earnestly recommended to all the brethren, that they renew and maintain Special Conferences. THIETY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1783. 191 I. YoRKTOWN District : Yorktown, two preachers ; MacCallister, two preachers ; Friedrichstatt, Dover, Hegerstowu, Lancaster. II. Lancaster District: Lancaster, Earltown, Manheim, Tulpe- hocken, Reading, Misillum. III. Macunshy District : Macunshy, Indianfield, Misillum, Green- wich, Allentown, N. Germantown, New Hanover. IV. Philadelphia District : Philadelphia, Germantown, Pike- land, New Hanover, Indianfield. V. New York District. 14. With reference to the Strait legacy, it was resolved : That if no special order be received from Germany, it be annually divided between those ordained preachers present at the Syuodical Meeting, sick and old preachers excepted, who, as well as each widow of a regular preacher, shall di*aw their full share. At this time Rev. Mr. Kuuze asked a question concerning $400 in- terest due on the above-mentioned legacy, for which he and Rev. Mr. Helmuth wrote, but which, on the way, was taken by the British. Resolved, That we wait for further directions from Germany — but the preachers present promised for themselves, that, if Prof. Freyling- hausen refused it to Rev. Messrs. Kunze and Helmuth, they would re- mit Mr. Kunze's share, on the condition that he take a young man named Schaefer, and keep him one year, board free, and prepare him for the ministry. Finally all the preachers bowed before God, renewed the covenant of faithfulness to their Great Shepherd, and of brotherly love toward one another ; then they elected Pastor Schulze President, Rev. Henr. Muhlenberg, Jun., Secretary, appointed Lancaster as the place of the next Synodical Meeting on the Festival of the Trinity, 1784, and for the last time went to church, where they were edified by Rev. Mr. "Wildbahn, on the text Acts 14 : 17, and dismissed with a final admonition and benediction by Rev. Mr. Goering. That the above was done at a Synodical Meeting held at Yorktown, we witness. Emanuel Schulze, p. t. President. Henry Muhlenberg, Jun., Secretary. THIRTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION. 1784. (June 7, 8. Lancaster.) As it was appointed at the last Synodical Meeting of an Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium held at Yorktown, the meeting of this year opened at Lancaster on June 6th. The preachers went to church and Dr. Kunze edified the large audience from the Gospel John 3 : 1 sqq . In the afternoon Pastor Krug preached on Luke 13 : 23-24, and in the evening Pastor Roller, on Heb. 12 : 15. June 7th, at 9 o'clock, A. m. Pastor Schulze, the President, preached on James 1 : 22 ; after the close of service all the preachers and dele- gates went to the school-house, began with prayer, and the following points were suggested for consideration : 1. Letters from Virginia, to wit : Rockingham County, Shenandoah County, Frederick County ; 2, a letter from Rev. Mr. Helmuth ; 8, a letter from Rev. Mr. Moller ; 4, letters from the congregations at the Silver Run ; 6, a libelous writing of a vagabond against Rev. Mr. Schwerdfeger ; 6, Halle report ; 7, letters from Virginia, to wit. : Win- chester, Woodstock and Strasburg ; 8, questions from several congre- gations in Shamokin ; 9, recommendation of a candidate for a license ; 10, question concerning the admission of certain persons to the Lord's Supper; 11, concerning the Streit legacy ; 12, concerning the Hymn- book and Catechism ; 13, concerning Dickinson College ; 14, account of a new University at New York ; 15, concerning calling of new preachers from Germany; 16, concerning the Ministerial Order and the Church Agende ; 17, concerning the number of baptized, confirmed, communicants and deceased. June 7th, p. m. All the preachers assembled in the parsonage, viz.: P. Nicolaus Kurtz, from Yorktown. " Wilhclm Kurtz, from Lebanon. " Ludwig Voigt, from Pikeland. 192 THIRTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1784. 193 P. Andreas Krug, from Friederich's stadt. " Emauuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken. " Carl. Fredk. Wildbahn, from Reading. " Joh. Christopli. Kunze, from Philadelphia. " Christian Streit, from New Hanover. " Conrad Roeller, from Indianfield. " Jacob Goering, from Yorktown. " Daniel Lehman, from Misillum. " Daniel Schroeter, from McAllister. " Frederick Ernst, from Greenwich. I myself, Henrich Muhlenberg, Juii., Pastor Loci, Catechist Paul Hinckel, from Virginia with four delegates. First of all, the Protocol of the preceding convention was read, and several points were explained and more fully defined, especially con- cerning Church Penance, that open transgressors against the Sixth Com- mandment shall rise, in a public confession and give evidence of their repentance ; also, that illegitimate children should be baptized even if the parents have not submitted to Church Penance. N. 1. Then No. 1 was taken up. The letters contained the request to ordain Mr. Paul Hinckel, or at least extend his license. Mr. Hiuckel was again examined in writing, and thereupon it was resolved to extend his license for one year, and to exhort the congregations by a circular letter, to prepare a call for a preacher and entrust it to the Ministerium, which will not fail to transmit it to Europe, N. 2. Rev. Mr. Helmuth gave a satisfactory excuse for his al)sence ; communicated some sad news from Germany ; recommended a thorough and scholarly education of our youth ; asked whether a certain sermon of Luther should not be reprinted, and desired a more detailed account of the use to be made of the Streit Legacy. In reference to the last, it was resolved, that after deducting £17 for printing the INIinisterial Order and the Church Agende, 500 thalers, i. e. £125, be divided among the preach- ers present, and Senior Muhlenberg, Revs, Helmuth and Moller, who had excused their absence, and Widow Schaum. At evening time, all the members went to the church, and Rev, Mr. Goering edified the congregation with an exposition of Job, 7 : 38. June 8th, a.m. No. 2, Rev, Mr. Helmuth's letter was again taken up, and two ques- tions answered. (1.) Whether the preachers wished, at their expense, to print a sermon of Luther? It was declined for the present, on account of the hard times. 13 194 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. (2.) What should be doue with reference to 400 thalers, interest on the Streit legacy, of which mention was made last year? It was resolved that the preachers in Philadelphia should not be pressed for this money, on condition that they pay over as much as they could recover. No. 3. Rev. ]\Ir. Moller gave a sufficient excuse for his absence, and expressed a desire to withdraw from teaching in Philadelphia, and devote himself entirely to pastoral work. Dr. Kunze added verbally that JNIr. Moller would probably accept the congregation at Albania. Ko. 4. The written communications from Silver Run contained com- plaints against Rev. Mr. Schroeter, made by two elders, and his defence, signed by some others. It was resolved to hold a Special Conference near that place, and the neighboring preachers were appointed a com- mittee to examine into the matter more closely. No. 5. The libellous writing was not read in public, because of the shortness of the time. One Fredk. Aug. AYalberg, who preaches in New York, is the author, and the entire document is unchristian and ungodly. No. 6. The Halle Report shall be distributed to all the preachers. No. 7. They urgently asked for a preacher : they are numerous and w^ell able to support a preacher, and it is to be desired that they may be cared for, because then many surrounding districts, which are full of neglected Lutherans, may find some help and refuge. Resolved, that Rev. Mr. Kurtz, Sen., or if he is too weak. Rev. Mr. Goering, visit the congregations. No. 8. Various persons from Shamokin asked verbally whether some other preacher than Catechist Euderlein may not hold Communion Service, as they are not satisfied with him. They were advised against it, but permission was granted to ask Rev. Mr. Kurtz, Jun., for a visit- ing sermon, who might then investigate the matter. No. 9. The candidate i-ecommended is ]\Ir. Daniel Kurtz, a son of the venerable Mr. Kurtz, of Yorktown. He had been instructed for almost three years in languages, theological and other sciences, and his teacher. Rev. Muhlenberg, of Lancaster, gave him a good testimonial, in reference to his diligence and good character, and requested that he be examined and granted a license. Hereupon he was brought forward and examined. Pastor Voigt started with Hebrew, and had the First Psalm translated, and asked various grammatical questions. He also had Matth. 28: 19, 20, translated and explained. Dr. Kunze examined him farther in Greek, and Rev. 1: 1-G, and Heb. 11: 1, 21, were translated. The gentlemen present expressed their satisfaction, and gave him the following questions to be answered in writing : THIRTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1784. 195 (1 .) How is it proved that Christ was not merely a teacher of men, but ako offered a true satisfaction for men ? (2.) What are the works and benefits of the Holy Spirit ? (3.) By what evidence do men know that they are converted ? (4.) How is the baptism of children proved ? (5.) How is the eternity of the punishment of Hell declared ? (6.) Are the Apostles infallible in the exposition of doctrine ? No. 10. 1st Question : Shall persons be admitted to the Lord's Supper, who have been instructed and confirmed by self-made, uneducated preachers ? Answer : Not without first carefully examining, and con- firming them. 2nd Question : Whether a testimonial shall be required of every stranger, admitting him to the Lord's Supper (at least in the case of residents) ? Resolved, to leave this to the wisdom and conscience of each preacher, inasmuch as this cannot be generally carried out in this country. June 8th, p.m. No. 11. Kev. Muhlenberg gave to the preachers their share of the interest — seventeen preachers and one preacher's widow each received £6. The remaining £17 was paid to Dr. Kunze, in order to have the Ministerial Order, and the Church Agende printed. For this, Rev. Mr. Helmuth had handed in £83, and Rev. Muhlenberg, in Lancaster, £12, according to their account in Germany. No. 12. Concerning the Hymn Book, resolved to make another effort, and if Mr. Steiner refuse, to try another printer. The preachers promised to buy from the printer as soon as it is published, as follows Pastors Kurtz, Sen., 50 copies; Voigt, 50 ; Schulze, 50 ; Kunze, 50 Muhlenberg, 50 ; Lehman, 50 ; Streit, 50 ; Roeller, 50 ; Schroeter, 50 Goering, 50 ; Ernst, 50. ]\Iany of those absent will certainly take the same number, and Dr. Kunze promised this in particular for Rev. Mr. Helmuth — 50. No. 13. A letter from the Trustees of the new College at Carhsle, in which they ask assistance for their Institution. The Trustees present in our INIinisterium, Pastors Kurtz, Sen,, Schulze and ]\Iiihlenberg, were commissioned to answer orally, promising our assistance and support through contributions and recommendations. No. 14. Dr. Kunze made a report concerning a new university in New York. No. 15. Whether and how preachers are to be called from Germany? The harvest is great, and the laborers are few. We consider it abso- lutely necessary to call at least two new ones. To furnish the travelling 196 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY expense is one of the greatest difficulties. Resolved to ask our Fathers to use the interest of the Streit legacy for this purpose, if there are no other funds in Germany, until it becomes easier to make the necessary collections here, either in individual congregations, or in all. No. 16. The Ministerial Order and Church Agende shall be printed as soon as possible, in two i)arts wliich may be bound separately. Dr. Kunze undertook to attend to this. No. 17. Each preacher brings or sends a yearly account of the Bap- tized, Confirmed, Communicants and Buried from one New Year to the next. The reports of this year are still very imperfect : (1.) H. Muhlenberg, in Lancaster, January 1, 1783-1784, baptized 211, among these 5 adults, confirmed 66, buried 40, and administered Communion to 615. (2.) Rev. Mr. Wildbahn, in Reading, baptized 61, confirmed 44, com- municants 436, buried 64 — among these many Reformed — except among communicants — because their preacher is sick. (3.) Rev. Mr. Ernst, gave the entire account since November 26th, 1783, till June, 1784: Baptized 350, confirmed 225, communicants 1200, died 31. (4.) Rev. Roeller, January 1, 1783-1784 : Baptized 77, confirmed 23, communicants 537, died 19. (5.) Rev. Lehman, June, 1783-1784 : Baptized 182, confirmed 91, died 27. (6.) Rev. Schroeter, in 8 congregations: Baptized 162, communi- cants 629, died 6. Next year we hope that fuller reports will be made. The candidate, Mr. Daniel Kurtz, presented his answers to the ques- tions given him, and the Ministerium decided that they were thorough and satisfactory, and granted him a license to administer the Word and Sacraments in congregations to which the elder Pastor Kurtz might send him. The license is valid until the next Synodical Meet- ing. After the above questions were discussed, the President was charged fraternally and earnestly to exhort the absent members to attend more faithfully, as it is the intention hereafter to adhere closely to the Ministerial Order, which (Chap. 5, §§ 2,3,4,) declares very Bpecilically against such negligence. The President shall communicate or have communicated a copy of these sections to those absent, in order that they may know the mind of their brethren. Finally they proceeded to the appointing of a place and time for our next meeting, and to the election of a President and Secretary. The next Synodical Convention shall be held at Philadelphia on the THIETY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1784. 197 Festival of the Trinity, 1785. Pastor Schultze, President, and Rev. Mr. Helmuth, Seci'etary. Then all the preachers bowed down before God, and commended themselves and their congregations to the Great Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, once more went to church, and heard Rev. Mr. Kurz, Sen., preach on Mark. 16 : 16 sq., and were dismissed by the ^as^or loci with the Benediction. That the above thus took place, we witness : Emanuel Schultze, Henr. Muhlenberg, Jun., p. t. President. Secretary. THIRTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION. 1785. May 22-24. — Philadelphia. On tlie 20th and 21st of May, the members of the Rev. Ministerium arrived gradually. E«v. Goering preached iu St. Michael's Church, on Friday evening, on John 14 : 23 . " Of the sure results of the love of Jesus." 1. The love of Jesus ; 2. Its sure results. On Saturday evening, Mr. Daniel Kurz, preached in St. Michael's, on Heb. 12: 15, theme: " Warning against the delay of conversion." 1. "What it is to delay conversion ; 2. The warning. Sunday, May 22d. In the forenoon, Rev. Muhlenberg, Jun., preached in Zion's, on John 21 : 15-17. " It is the will of Jesus that we love Him and His cause." 1. He wills that we love Him ; 2. Love His cause. In St. Michael's, Rev. Schroeter preached in II Tim. 1:9. " God's great and gracious call to men." 1. Its character ; 2. Its means. In the afternoon, Mr. Lehman preached on Col. 3 : 15. " Pious thoughts of peace." 1. The nature of the peace of the soul; 2. Its origin. In St. Michael's, Mr. Wilhelm Kurz preached on Ephes. 2 : 4, 5. "The divine gift of grace." 1. Wherein it consists in making alive; 2. Its pure fountain, v. 4. In the evening, Mr. Schmidt preached in Zion's, on Galat, 6 : 15. "The change of heart necessary to salvation." Monday, May 23d, a. m. The preachers present assembled in the vestry-room of Zion's Church at 9 o'clock, viz. : 1. Rev. Mr. Schulze, from Tulpehocken. 2. " W. Kurz, from Lebanon. 3. Rev. Dr. Helmuth, joasior loci. 4. Rev. Mr. Schmidt, from Germantown. 6. " Muhlenberg, Jun., from Lancaster. 6. " Streit, from New Hanover. 198 7. Rev. Mr. 8. a 9. <( 10. i( 11. ii 12. a 13. u 14. (( 15. (( 16. a 17. (( THIKTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION, 1785. 199 . Busskerk, from Macuuschy. Roller, from Goscheuhoppen. Jung, from Hagerstown. Wildbahn, from Reading. Goering, from Yorktown. Lehman, from Mosillum. Schroeter, from MacAllistertown. Ernst, fi'om Greenwich. JNIelzheimer, fr'om JNIanheim. Candidate Daniel Kurz, from Yorktown. Hartung also attended. The following members sent excuses, either written or verbal. Senior Muhlenberg, Krug, Kurtz, Sr. , Voigt. In the hour fi-om 9 to 10 A. M., Rev. Mr. Schulze preached on James 1 : 22, 23. " The correct and salutary use of God's Word." 1. Wherein it consists ; 2. To apply it. After the close of service all the preachers and delegates from several congregations went to the vestry-room, opened the conference with prayer, and handed in the following points for consideration. 1. Delegates from Egypt, Heidelberg and Lindon in Northampton County petitioned that Mr. Schelhard be ordained as their preacher ; 2. A paper from the congregation in Yorktown ; 3. A paper from Tulpehocken ; 4. A paper from Maryland, from Mr. Schroeter's con- gregations; 5. A paper from Mr. Kurz, Sen.; 6. A paper from Senior Muhlenberg ; 7. A paper from Carlisle ; 8. A paper from Sheppards- town in Virginia; 9. A paper from Mr. Liitge ; 10. A pro memoria referring to Mr. Henkel ; 11. A pro memoria from New Hanover ; 12. The matter of Anton Hecht's call ; 13. From New Holland ; 14. From Pawlingskill ; 15. Rev. Mr. Melzheimer desires to be received into the Ministerium ; 16. Mr. Busskerk has something to present. Mr. Helmuth, who was chosen Secretary at the last Synodical INFeet- ing, put j\Ir. Schmidt in his place on account of his being overburdened ■with work. No. 15 was taken up first and unanimously resolved, that Mr. Melz- heimer be received into the United Ministerium. 1. Resolved, that the petition of the congregations in Egypt, etc., could not yet be granted, because most of the members of the Minis- terium did not know INIr. Schelhard sufficiently. 3. The Protocol of the last conference was read. In connection with this, the question was asked, how matters stood in reference to the publication of the new Hymn Book ? Answer : It is 200 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. in press. The following gentlemen also promised to take copies: Mr. Schmidt 50, Mr. Busskerk 50, Mr. Wildbahn 50, Mr. RGller 50, Mr. ]\Iekheimer 50, Mr. Jung 50, Mr. Wilhelm Kurz 50, Mr. Daniel Kurz 60. Further, it was Resolved, that Messrs. Helmuth, Schmidt, W. Kurz, Muhlenberg, Jun., be a committee to reduce the number of the hymns, and Messrs. HeL muth and Schmidt were commissioned to alter and sliorten many of the hymns, and attend to the printing of the Hymn Book. Resolved, that Messrs. Helmuth, Schmidt and Muhlenberg, Jun., make some changes in the Church Agende, and that Mr. Helmuth then have 400 copies in octavo, and 100 copies with wide margin printed. No. 11. The letter was read: New Hanover and the congregations united with it, desire to have Mr. Nicolaus Kurz or Mr. Goring as their preacher ; therefore, resolved, that these gentlemen answer the congre- gations. The morning session was closed with prayer. Monday, May 23d, p.m. At 2 o'clock the preachers assembled in Rev. Helmuth's home, and after prayer continued their Synodical work. No. 3. The congregations in Tulpehocken requested in writing and through delegates, that Mr. Schulze might not be taken from them. As Mr. Schulze received a call from Philadelphia a year ago, but to the present has given no decisive answer as to whether he is willing to move to Philadelphia or not, the whole matter was referred to him. No. 4. After the communication from Zion's Church, in Baltimore City, with its comjDlaints against Mr. Schroter, was read, and the matter considered, it was Resolved, that the congregation be informed that the Ministerium has told Mr. Schroter its opinion in reference to the matter, and hopes that he will act in accordance with the counsel given, and that thereby peace and unity may be restored. No. 5. iNIr. Nicolaus Kurz reports, in his letter, that he is much con- cerned about several congregations beyond the Susquehanna, and sug- gests a young man, who could be used there as catechist. Hereupon it was Resolved, the Ministerium has no objections to the proposition of Mr. Kurz, but leaves it entirely in his hands, where and how he can and will use him with benefit. No. 12. The matter of the call of INlr. Hecht : The congregations at Tohicon, Upper Dublin and North Wales desire to have ^Ir. Hocht, who formerly kept school, as their preacher, and petition the ]\Iiuibteriiim TUIRTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION, 1785. 201 to ordain liim. Mr. Heclit himself was not present, and only a few members of the Miuisterium know him ; therefore answer was made to the congregations that their request could not be granted. The Conference was closed with prayer. At evening service, Mr. Melzheimer preached on Rom. 1 : 16: " The Gosj)el a power of God unto salvation. 1. How it is called a power; 2. for whom?" Tuesday, May 24th, a.m. Ko. 7. The congregation in Carlisle asks earnestly for a preacher, as also No. 8. The congregation at Scheppardstown, in Virginia. But by reason of the lack of preachers, no assistance could be given. Mr. Nicolaus Kurz was charged to assist them as much as possible. Ko. 10. A pro memoria concerning Mr. Hinkel was read, and there- upon resolved, that his license be renewed for one year, and that Rev. Mr. Jung assist him as much as possible. No. 9. Mr. Liitge, who had been ordained by a preacher named Meyer, asked in writing for admission into the Ministerium. But it was resolved that the United Ministerium did not want to have anything further to do with him. No. 13. The congregations in New Holland reported that they were without a preacher, and had sent a call to Mr. Goring, but had not yet received a decisive answer. Mr. Goring appeared to have no desire to accept this call. No. 14. The congregation at Pawlingskill has some complaints against its preacher, Mr. Ernst, and requests that we ordain one named Carl Benjamin Tannapfel to be their preacher. Resolved, that this request cannot be granted. Mr. Ernst was frater- nally admonished that he, on his part, give no occasion for complaint or disturbance. No. 16. Between Mr. Buskirk and Mr. Lehman some difficulties had arisen concerning a newly-built church. It was therefore Resolved, that no preacher belonging to the Ministerium, should accept a congregation, which was only one or two miles distant from a church served by a member of the Ministerium ; except with the consent of the regular pastor. Tuesday, May 24th, p.m. The following gentlemen reported the number of baptized, confirmed, communicants, and buried in their respective congregations during the past year : 202 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Communi- Baptized. Confirmed. cants. Burled. . 423 165 '2000 » 204 . 170 80 660 — . 137 57 531 43 . 179 06 627 46 . 68 87 483 27 . 219 237 929 36 . 140 113 678 17 . 153 73 630 24 . 70 42 427 25 . 160 83 — — . 205 72 — 33 . 163 150 450 10 . 75 3 — 7 1. Helmuth, Philadelphia . 2. Wilhelm Kurz, in Lebanon 3. Schmidt, in Germantown 4. Muhlenberg, in Lancaster 6. Roller, in Goschenhoppen. 6. Jung, in Hegerstown, 1782 1783 1784 7. Wildbahn, in Reading 8. Goring, in Yorktown 9. Lehmann, in Mosillura . 10. Schroter, in Mac Allister town 11, Ernst, in Greenwich Mr. Helmuth reported to the Synodical IMeeting that he had received the accounts of the interest of the Streit Legacy from Halle, and that according to these accounts the remainder of the reported interest was to be distributed to the preachers ; and, therefore, requested that the Ministerium appoint a committee to audit the above accounts of the 2nd of Nov., 1784, signed by Inspector Fabricius, and make a report. Thereupon it was resolved, that Messrs. Schulze, Schmidt, and Miihlen- berg, Jun., be a committee to attend to the above. This committee found, after due investigation, that according to the reported accounts, there remained for distribution 672 thalers, 3 groschen and 8 pfenige. This sum, it is shown by the above accounts, is to be paid by the following gentlemen : 1. Mr. Helmuth had money paid to his mother in Germany 2. Mr. Kunze had money paid to his brothers in Germany 50 3. Mr. Schulze had money paid to his mother in Germany 178 4. Mr. Muhlenberg, Jun., had money paid to the Orphan- house and Profess. Knapp . . . . .14 5. Helmuth, on the book account, 95 pounds, Pennsyll. currency, @ 4 th., make ..... 380 Thai- Gros- Pfen- ers. Chen. ige. 50 00 00 00 GO 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 672 00 This sum was applied as follows : 1. Mr, llelnuith paid the 50 th. paid to his mother, and of the 380 th. to the preachers at this Synodical Meeting, 90 pounds Pens, cur., make . . . 360 00 00 ' About 2000. 13 16 00 3 00 00 14 00 00 178 00 00 50 00 00 THIRTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION, 1785. 203 Further, tuition fur four academical students, according to receipts from the Trustees of the University in Philadelphia, £17 6s. 8d. make . . . . 69 8 00 And retained, Avith the consent of the Ministerium, for printing the Church Agende . . . . 14 00 00 As the Seminary was discontinued, Mr. Helrauth intends to apply the 13 th. 16 gr. appropriated for it, as tuition money in the academy for a certain Zentler, who formerly was in the Seminary, since be believes by this means he will come nearest to fulfilling the intention of Mr. Kunze ..... To the heirs of Handschuh, according to above accounts. 2. Mr. Muhlenberg paid his 14 th. to the preachers present 3. Mr. Schulze promised also to pay his 178 th., for which some of the preachers accept a draft on him 4. Mr. Kunze has not yet paid his 50 th. . . • 702 00 00 According to the above acccounts there were to distribute subtr 672 Since the entire sum partly paid and distributed, and partly still to be paid amounts to 702 th., Mr. Helmuth advanced . . . . • . 30 ' The accounts sent from Halle were also presented to the Ministerium in the original. The above, referring to the accounts is, at the special order of the appointed committee and the Synodical Meeting, attested by JoH. Friedrich Schmidt, Secretary. Upon motion, it was resolved, that it was unnecessary and difficult to invite the preachers in writing to each Synodical Meeting, since the meeting is held annually on the Festival of the Trinity, and the place is always decided upon beforehand, and because it is impossible to forward the letters to the respective preachers. Thereupon the preachers present proceeded to the appointment of the place for the meeting of next year, to the election of a President and a Secretary for the following year ; by a majority of votes, Philadelphia was again chosen as the place of meeting, Dr. Helmuth, President, and Mr. Schmidt, Secretary. ^ The remainder, 30 th., is not advanced, but makes up the 55 pounds sterling, for -which Mr. Helmuth received goods from Holland through Mr. Bell, while Mr. Kunze had counted them as paid for in cash. 204 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. In closing, all the preachers bent their knees before God, and the President closed with prayer. In the evening, Mr. Wildbahn preached on INIark 16 : 19 : " Of the worship which we owe to the Saviour who sits at the Right Hand of God," and ]\Ir. Helmuth, as pastor loci, dismissed all the preachers with a benediction. That the above thus happened, is witnessed by Emanuel Schulze, P. t. Pneses. JoH. Friederich Schmidt, P. t. Secretary. Appendix to the Synodical Meeting OF 17 85. Names of those to whom the above-mentioned sums were distributed : Pounds Pennsylvania Gros- currency. Thalera. chen. Pfenige 1. M r. Helmuth paid in cash — To Mr. Buskirk .... 6 making 24 00 00 (( Ernst 6 6 6 24 24 24 00 00 00 00 « Melzheimer , . . 00 tc Schroter .... 00 (( Lehman .... 6 6 « « 24 24 00 00 00 (C Schmidt .... 00 a Roller 6 6 6 6 « « 24 24 24 24 00 00 00 00 00 K Goring 00 « Dan. Kurz . . . 00 (( Jung 00 (( Hartwig .... 6 « 24 00 00 « Friederici, through Mr. Bus- kirk . . . • 6 it 24 00 00 « Kurz, Sen., through his son Daniel K. . . 6 6 « 24 24 00 00 00 (C Streit • • • • 00 (( Voigt, through Mr. Streit . 6 « 24 00 00 2. Mr, Schulze promised to pay to the following : To Mr Sen. Muhlenberg. 6 making 24 00 00 " Dr. Helmuth .... 6 24 00 00 " Foi * his own share . . 6 24 00 00 " Wilh. Kurz 6 6 6 24 24 24 00 00 00 00 " Krug 00 " Wildbahn 00 " Widow Schaum . . . 6 24 00 GO THIRTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION, 1785. 206 To Mr. Miihlenberg, Jun., £2 lOs., besides what is to be paid him, £3 lOs 6 making 24 00 00 " Mr. Helmuth retained, for print- ing Agendo 310s." 14 00 00 £141 10s." 566 00 00 When to this sum is added (1) the above tuition fees 69 8 00 (2) 13 th. gr., appointed for the Seminary, 3, (3) th. for the Handschuh heirs 16 16 00 (4) still to be paid by Mr. Kunze 50 00 00 The above sum results, viz 702 00 00 Besides the above mentioned 50 th., Mr. Kunze owes 5 pounds ster- ling, or 7 pounds, 10 shillings Pennsylvania currency, making together 20 pounds Penns. cur., of this he himself takes 6 pounds, the remaining 14 pounds are divided into 24 equal parts, and distributed among the preachers. J. Friederich Schmidt, P. t. Secretary. PnrLADELPHiA, March 11, 1786. Eeceived from Dr. H. Helmuth the sum of 7 pounds, 10 shillings, for binding one hundred and fifty copies of the Church Agende of the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium. Received by us £7 10s. Sam. & John Baker. THIRTY-NINTH CONVENTION. 1786. JtrxE 11-14. Philadelphia. On June 9th and 10th the members of the Ministerium arrived grad- ually, and Mr. Kunze preached in the evening in Zion's Church, on Philippians 1:3." The good confidence of the ministers of the Word." 1. The object of their confidence ; 2. The ground of this confidence. On Saturday evening, Mr. Daniel Kurz preached on I Corinth. 2 : 1-4. "The teaching of Paul concerning Jesus the crucified." 1. The human race is perishing ; 2. From this misery Jesus has delivered us and obtained righteousness for all ; 3. To obtain this we must believe on Him. Sunday, June 11th. In the forenoon, Mr. Kunze preached in Zion's Church on Matth. 22 : 4. " The hand of God in the repeated sending and changing of His servants." 1, The divine sending in general ; 2. The hand of God in the repetitions, and changes accompanying them. In the forenoon in St. Michael's Church, Mr. Krug preached on Rom. 8: 16,17. " How the Holy Spirit assures believers." 1. Of their pres- ent ; 2. Of their future salvation. In the afternoon in Zion's Church, IMr. Schulz preached on ]\Iatth. 6: 15. "The true inner EvangeHcal worship of God." 1. What opposes it ; 2. In what it consists. In the afternoon in St. Michael's, ]Mr. Wildbahn preached on I John 3 : 1, 2, 3. " The State of Adoption." 1. Its honor and glory ; 2. Its inheritance and blessedness ; 3. Its obligation. In the evening in Zion's Church, Mr. Miihlenberg, Jun., ])reachod on John 13: 33-35. "How Jesus encourages us to brotherly love." 1. The address; 2. The special command given; 3. The command emphasized. Between the afternoon and evening services, some of the preachers present assembled in Mr. Helnnith's house, edified thctnsclves together through instructive and beneficial conversations, and bowed their knees together before God's throne of grace. 206 THIRTY-NINTH CONVENTION, 1786. 207 Monday, June 12th, a. m. At 9 o'clock the preachers assembled in Zion's Church, and Mr. Wil- helm Kurz preached on Sirach 18 : 22. "The great danger in delaying conversion." The preachers in attendance at this year's Synodical Meeting are : 1. Mr. Wilhelm Kurz, from Lebanon. 2. ** Voigt, from Pikestown. 3. " Krug, from Fricdrichstown. 4. " Schulz, from Tidpehocken. 5. " Helmuth, from Philadelphia. 6. " Schmidt, from Germantown. 7. " Kunze, from New York. 8. " Muhlenberg, Jun., from Lancaster. 9. " Wildbahn, from Beading. 10. " Busskerk, from Macunshy. 11. " Roller, from Goschenhoppen. 12. " Goring, from Yorktown. 13. " Lehman, from Mesillum. 14. " Schroeter, from MacAllister. 15. " Ernst, from Greenwich. 16. " Melzheimer, from New Holland. 17. " Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. After the sermon was finished, the conference was opened with prayer. 1. Two delegates from Moore township handed in various written com- plaints against Mr. Ernst, and requested that he be removed from their congregation, and it be supplied with another preacher. Mr. Ernst defended himself against the accusations, and maintained that some of them were false, and others based on a misunderstanding. The delegates themselves confessed that they could not prove all the com- plaints, inasmuch as they and the others who had signed the accusation, had written their names on a blank sheet of paper, and that a man named Dickhant had afterward written the complaints on it. After due consideration the delegates were earnestly admonished not to let themselves be used as tools for the furtherance of evil, but for their part to strive to re-establish and preserve peace, harmony and love among and toward each other. And finally Resolved, that Mr. Ernst resign his call to the congregation mentioned, but that the congregation be informed in writing, that the Minister- ium hopes they will pay Mr. Ernst his back salary. The morning sermon was closed with prayer. 208 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Os THE Same Day, p.m. After the prayer. 2. A letter of excuse from Mr. Kurz, Sr., was read. 3. The President reported, that according to accounts from Halle he had a certain sum of money to distribute to the preachers ; and that the Fathers in Halle wished that certain funds be securely invested here in America. In reference to the first, Mr. Schmidt and Mr. Muhlenberg, Jun., were requested to audit the accounts, and to determine how much and to whom the interest was to be distributed. They found as follows : According to the above accounts, dated Halle, October 1, 1785, signed by Insp. Fabricius, the interest for two years and other charitable gifts were received — 938 reichthaler, 14 groschen. Pounds Shil. Pence. These make in Pennsylvania currency, 5s. 6d. pro R. thaler, . . • 258 1 11 To this is to be added 2s. 6d., remaining from the sum set apart for printing the Agende, ... 26 258 4 5 From this was deducted, for Mr. Schulze's mother, 10 thalers, . . , 2 Further, initiation fee in the academy, . . .26 For a needy person, ...... Divided amongst twenty-one preachers (including Widow Schaum), 228 258 N. B. — According to last year's accoimts, Mr. Kunzc had 50 Th. and £5 sterling to pay to the preachers, but he reported that he had remitted the 50 Th. to Halle; from the £5 sterling, making £8 Pennsylvania cur- rency, he took the £6 due him, and the remaining £2 the Ministerium directed him to pay to Mr. Mciller in Albania. In regard to investing funds, it was Resolved, That if the corporation of St. Michael's and Zion's is will- ing to take it as a perpetual fund for the payment of interest, it shall pay only five per cent, interest. The original obligation for this shall be made to the Fathers in Halle, and the Ministerium shall have a copy. Mr. Voigt, Mr. Helrauth and Mr. Schmidt wore a}>poiuted a committee to look after the correctness of this obligation. 15 6 6 15 7 6 4 5 TUIRTY-NINTH CONVENTION, 1786. 209 Resolved, That the interest shall be applied as follows : (1.) For tuition for six academical students, according to the ap- pointment of the Fathers in Halle. (2.) For the regular preachers present at the annual Synodical Meet- ing. (3.) For old and sick preachers who cannot attend. (4.) For the widows of regular preachers. (5.) Those also shall have their share wlio satisfactorily and in writing excuse their absence from the annual Synodical Meeting. Closed with prayer. At the evening service in Zion's, Mr. Roller preached on Philip. 2 : 12. " The true earnestness of the Christian in his conversion : 1, be- fore, and 2, after conversion." Tuesday, June 13, a.m. 4. A letter from the congregations at New Hanover and New Gos- chenhoppen was read, in which they ask the Ministerium for a preacher. Resolved, That answer be made to them in writing, that they may ex- tend a call to any preacher in the Ministerium. 5. A letter from the congregation at Manheim w^as read, in which they ask for Mr. INIelzheimer or some other preacher. Resolved, That the neighboring preachers serve the congregation as much as possible. 6. Several congregations in York townshij) desire a Mr. Schafer as their pastor. Resolved, That some questions be given him immediately to be an- swered in writing. 7. A writing from several congregations in Northampton County was read, in which they ask that a Mr. Schelhard be ordained as their preacher by the IMinisterium. Resolved^ That Mr. Schelhard can not be ordained. Upon motion, it was Resolved, That no member of the Ministerium shall have anything to do with any candidate, or any person who represents himself as a preacher, if the person be not received by the INIinisteriuni or recom- mended by the President or a District Conference. 8. The congregation in New Holland, Earl township, requests to be united with Modecriek. Resolved, That the Ministerium give its consent. 9. On motion it was Resolved, That a dozen bound copies of the printed Church Agcnde be given to Mr. Kunze to take along for the use of Lutheran preachers 14 210 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY. in New York State; and that the corporation of St. Michael's and Zion's in Philadelphia be requested to take care of aud preserve the unbound copies of this Agende for the future use of the Ministerium. 11. On motion it was Resolved, That in case the United Lutheran preachers in New York State send a copy of the Protocol of their meeting to this Ministerium, a copy of ours be sent to them. Closed with prayer. On the Same Day, p.m. After prayer, 12. A letter from the congregation in Baltimore, in the State of Maryland, was read, in which it requests the Ministerium to ordain Mr. Daniel Kurz as its preacher. Resolved, That said congregation belongs to the Ministerium, and that instead of an examination, some questions to be answered in writ- ing be given to Mr. Daniel Kurz. Resolved, That an address to United Evangelical Lutheran congrega- tions in North America be pubUshed in the newspaper. 13. A letter from the congregation in Yorktown was read, in which it expresses its satisfaction with its present preachers, Mr. Kurz, Sr., and Mr. Goering. 14. The congregation in Whitpain, Upper Dublin and Gwynedd re- quest that Mr. Hecht be at least granted permission to preach and baptize. Resolved, That Mr. Helmuth and Mr. Schmidt be a committee, to examine Mr. Hecht, and in accordance with their judgment grant him a license, Avith restrictions, and that he be under the supervision of the neighboring preachers of the Ministerium. 15. Several complaints against Mr. Kurz, Sr., were presented l>y a Reformed congregation in York County, which has an equal sliare in a church with a Lutheran congregation. Resolved, That Mr. Muhlenberg, in Lancaster, together with the Re- formed preacher Hendel [whom he shall request to assist him] shall endeavor to adjust matters. 16. On motion, Resolved, That the Ministerium write a letter to the Nolltown con- gregation and admonish it to pay its preacher, Mr. Ernst, the salary due him 17. Messrs. Daniel Kurz aud Sclulfer handed over the answers, to the questions given. They were read, and Resolved, That Mr. Daniel Kurz be ordained to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock, in Zion's Church, Philadelphia, by the President, in presence of the preachers still present, aud that at the same time, afler prayer THIRTY-NINTH CONVENTION, 1786. 211 and the right hand of fellowship, the President give Mr. Schafer a license for a year. 18. On motion, it was Resolved, That the Secretary announce the time and place of each Synodical INIeeting some time beforehand in the paper. 19. Finally the preachers proceeded to the election of a President and Secretary, and to the determination of the place for the following year ; by majority of votes Mr. Helmuth Avas elected President, Mr. Schmidt, Secretary, and Lancaster was appointed as the place for the meeting. In closing, all the preachers bowed their knees before the throne of grace, and the President closed with jirayer. In the evening Mr. Lehman preached in Zion, on II Cor. 5 : 14. Wednesday, June 14th, a.m. In accordance with resolution No. 17, Mr. Dan. Kurz was ordained, and Mr. Schafer was granted a license ; whereupon Mr. Helmuth, as Pastor loci, dismissed the preachers with the Benediction. N. B. — Of the above-mentioned sum of £228, 7s. lid., the persons named received as follows : Mr. Wilhelm Kurz 10 " Voigt 10 " Krug 10 " Schulz 10 " Helmuth 10 " Schmidt 10 , " Kunze 10 " Muhlenberg, Jun 10 " Wildbahn 10 " Buskerk 10 " Roller 10 " Goring 10 " ' Lehman 10 " Schroter 10 " Ernst 10 " Melzsheimer 10 " Dan. Kurz . Further — Mr. Muhlenberg, Sr. Mr. Kurz, Sr. . Widow Schaum. Mr. Friederici, through Mr. Buskerk through Mr. Muhlenberg, Jun. . . . 10 10 10 10 10 Sh. 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 D. 6 making 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " 6 " Th. 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 Gr. Pfen. 13 bk 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 5i 5i bk 5} b\ bk b\ b\ b\ b\ bk bk b\ b\ bk b\ bk bk bk bk 228 7 6" 830 15 2k 212 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. To be added — 1. Tuition fee . 2. Mr. Schulz's mother . . . 3. As above 26 6 6 2 15 00 15 258 4 95 16 00 10 00 00 2 17 6 939 00 8i THE NUMBER OF BAPTIZED, CONFIRMED, COMMUNICANTS, BURIED, DURING THE LAST YEAR. Baptized. Confirmed. 25 Comnmni- cunts. 589 Mr. Wilbelm Kurz 160 " Helmuth — — — " Schmidt 47 — 212 " Kunze 90 — — " Muhlenberg 150 71 " Wildbahn 68 58 " Jung 165 117 " R5l]er 93 15 " Goring 42 17 " Schroter 130 40 " Ernst 51 23 713 526 545 517 105 800 288 Buried. 19 60 37 24 23 21 30 11 That the above thus took place, is witnessed by J. H. Christian Helmuth, P. t. President. JoH. Friederich Schmidt, P. t. Secretary. FORTIETH CONVENTION. 1787. (June 3-5, Lancaster.) June 2, toward evening, most of the members of the Ministerium arrived in Lancaster, and assembled in the parsonage, where they edi- fied themselves with fraternal conversation and prayer. June 3d, a.m. On Trinity Sunday, the pastors went to church, when Pastor Nicolaus Kurtz preached an impressive and edifying sermon on Phil. 2 : 12, 13. In the afternoon Pastor Jung preached at a funeral service on Hebr. 4 ; 9-11; and in the evening Dr. Helmuth on Rom. 8: 14. All the addresses were in an earnest and fraternal spirit, and well fitted to encourage the pastors and the people who had assembled in great numbers. June 4th, a.m. At 9 o'clock the preachers assembled in the school-house, and, after the Synod was oldened with prayer, they proceeded to the election of a new Secretary, in place of the absent Eev. Mr. Schmidt ; the choice feU upon Preacher Heinrich Muhlenberg. Members of the Ministerium present were : 1. Rev. Mr. Nicol. Kurz, from Yorktown. 2. " Wilhelm Kurz, from Lebanon. 3. " Ludwig Voigt, from Pikeland. 4. " Joh, Andr. Krug, from Friedrichstown. 5. " Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken. 6. " Heinrich Helmuth, D.D., from Philadelphia. 7. " Heinrich Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. 8. " C. Fried rich Wildbahn, from Reading. 9. " Jacobus von Buskirk, from Macunshy. 10. " Christian Streit, from "Winchester. 11. " Joh. Georg Jung, from Hegerstown. 12. " Conrad Roller, from Indianfield. 13. '* Jacob Goring, from Yorktown. 213 214 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 14. Rev. Mr. Daniel Schrciter, from MacAllister. 15. " Daniel Lehman, from Misillum. 16. " Friedrich Ernst, from Greenwich. 17. " Friedr Valent. Melsheimer, from New Holland. 18. " Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. 19. " Johan. Friedr. Weinland, from Germantown. 20. Licent. Friedrich David Schiifer, from Carlisle. 21. Licent. Paul Hinkel, from Virginia. Those absent who sent letters of excuse. Rev. Georg Eager, emeritus. " Friedrich Schmidt. " Joh. Chr. Kunze, D.D. " Henrich Moller. Licent. Euderline. The following important matters were considered : 1. Rev. Mr. Weinland's call was read, approved, and he was unani- mously received as a member of the Ministerium. 2. A letter from Menallen Township was read, requesting that Mr. Fried. Schiifer be permitted to remain with them. This request was granted. 3. Two Candidati Ministerii who formerly had preached in Maryland and Virginia reported themselves. Joh. Georg Schrcieder from Horne- busch, Stift Bremen, and Joh. Georg Hehl, from near Nordlingen. Both showed a certificate of ordination by a certain Butler, and Hchl brought a number of testimonials, also a delegate, who spoke well of him. They were heard and dismissed, and after much consultation, whether they should not be refused immediately, it was resolved, witli regard to a circular letter of 1786, to examine them further in the afternoon at 2 o'clock. 4. Delegates from Hagerstown were called in, who expressed their complete satisfaction with Rev. IMr. Jung. The Lutheran Corporation of this place also appeared, in order to offer its services. 5. A letter from tlie congregation in IMac AlUster, signed by its pastor emeritus, Mr. Eager, and the Church Council, was read, in which they asked for a new preacher. The following answer was agreed upon : The congregation shall be free to call any preacher of the ]\Iinisterium, and Mr. Schroter (who has accepted a congregation formerly connected with MacAllister) will resign Abbotstown, if, and as soon asl\racAlUster and Abbetstown together can and will accept a preacher of their own out of the Ministerium, At this time the question was asked, Is it right, that a preacher FORTIETH CONVENTION, 1787. 215 accept one of the United Congregations which belongs to a charge that cannot support a preacher unless the charge remain intact? Resolved, not except on the condition, only to serve it until the entire charge can be served (by some preacher). 6. Letters of excuse were read from Dr. Kunze, Rev- Schmidt and Moller. June 4th, p.m. In the afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Synodical Meeting was continued in the parsonage, viz. : 7. The candidates appointed to appear at 2 o'clock, presented them- selves for examination. Neither of them had learned anything of the original languages. Schroder was entirely rejected because of his im- pudence, and Hehl, who seemed to have received religious impressions, and who otherwise showed a commendable spirit, was informed that, if he publicly renounce his connection with Butler, refrain from adminis- tering communion and from confirming for an entire year, leaving both to the neighboring regular preachers, and also otherwise act as a Christian, the Ministerium will permit him to preach and to baptize. 8. A letter of excuse from Mr. Enderlein, for his absence from this and the previous meeting was read, and declared satisfactory. It was also ordered that his license be renewed. 9. Various letters concerning a Mr. Anton Hecht were read, in which his ordination was earnestly requested. Resolved^ to report to the con- gregation in the mildest terms, that, in accordance with our established rules, we cannot now ordain him. 10. Letters from Georgia were read, and resolved, to encourage Mr. Probst with the hope, that he may expect employment here, and that the Ministerium would gladly assist him. Mr. Wilh. Kurz and Lehman promised a good position as a teacher. 11. Letters of complaint from Baltimore were handed in, but, because they were one-sided, we could do nothing with them. 12. Manheim petitioned through delegates, that they might be served by a preacher of their own, or by a neighboring preacher. The congre- gation was referred to the latter. 13. New Hanover and New Goschenhoppen together asked for a preacher, the latter congregation had sent in a call with the promise of £60 yearly. Rev. Mr. Streit, to whom they had the call extended, promised a decisive answer in six weeks. Hereupon, all the preachers went to church, and attended the evening service. Rev. Mr. Goring preached on Gal. 2 : 20. 216 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. June 6th, a.m. At 9 o'clock the preachers again began their consultations, namely : 14. Delegates from New Holland Avere brought in, who expressed their sorrow, that Rev. ^Ir. Melzheimer was going to leave them, and inquired whether they could in the future be served by some other preacher. The jNIinisterium proposed Rev. Mr. Ernst to them, and he promised a visiting sermon for next Sunday. 15. Several of the preachers ordained in Pennsylvania asked for cer- tificates of ordination. It was ordered that certificates should be pre- pared and signed by the President and Secretary whenever they are given. 16. Mr. Paul Hinkel asked for a renewal of his license It was unanimously granted, the license extended to all congregations in that section having no regular j^reacher, and hope was given him, that in time he should be ordained. 17. A Candidatus Ministerii, Wilhelm Carpenter, who up to this time had been instructed by ]\Ir. Leps and Rev. Mr. Streit, laid before the Ministerium a recommendation from the congregation in Culpepper, in which urgent request is made, that he be examined and licensed to preach and baptize. INIessrs. Wildbahn, Kurz, Voigt and Krug were named a committee to examine him, and upon their recommendation, a license to preach and baptize in Culpepper was given him for one year. 18. Complaint was made that Rev. Mr. Lehman had given a license to one Schelhard. The Ministerium questioned him on the matter, and reached the unanimous conclusion : INIr. Lehman shall call in the license given to Schelhard, since the Ministerium entirely disapproves of it, and according to its Constitution recognizes no license as legitimate, except it be given at a Synodical Meeting. Mr. Lehman promised to obey the order, 19. All the preachers have been invited to attend the dedication of the German High School (Franklin College), on the morrow at 10 o'clock A. M., all accepted the invitation. 20. The printed Agende was laid before thelSIinisterium and approved, with the understanding, however, that liberty should be given to shorten the General Prayer, and in the rite of Confirmation to conform more to the former usage, if the congregations were otherwise accustomed. 21. Upon question, it was ordered, that the so-called Gospels and Epistles (except those for Minor Festivals), be printed and bound with the new Hymn Book. Preacher Muhlenberg was charged with the task of revising the whole, especially the prayers, and preparing it for the press. FORTIETH CONVENTION, 1787. 217 22. The Protocol of the preceding meeting was read, and much was said concerning the Streit Legacy, but as none of the preachers here has ever seen a copy of the will, no formal conclusion was reached. Report was also made of a still unsettled disagreement between Lu- therans and Reformed not far from Yorktown, of which mention was made last year. 23. It was ordered to send a circular letter in the name of the Min- isterium to all the United Congregations, and in it to rebuke the pre- vailing sins of the country, especially Sabbath-breaking, and to insist upon improvement. Dr. Helmuth was appointed to prepare the letter and have it printed by Mr. Billmeier. 24. Several preachers handed in their lists for the year 1786. Rev. Mr. Buskirk baptized 106, confirmed 58, administered com- munion to 402, buried 20. Rev. Mr. Melsheimer baptized 95, confirmed 175, administered com- munion to 400, buried 7. Rev. Mr. Schroter baptized 229, confirmed 129, administered com- munion to 1065, buried 19. Rev. Mr. Roller baptized 92, confirmed 88, administered communion to 521, buried 18. Rev. Mr. Jung baptized 147, confirmed 41, administered communion to 483, buried 17. Rev. Mr. Schaefer baptized 127, confirmed 5, administered commun- ion to 148, buried 6. Rev. Mr. Muhlenberg baptized 148, confirmed 44, administered com- munion to 671, buried 35. 25. It was unanimously resolved, to apply to the authorities for a charter, and Senior Miihlenberg, Pastor Nicolaus Kurz, Emanuel Schulze, Dr. Helmuth, Preacher H. Muhlenberg, Peter Muhlenberg, Esq., Rawle, Esq., were named a committee to attend to this. 26. The votes for President and Secretary of the Ministerium, and the place of the next Synodical Meeting were gathered. The majority of votes resulted as follows : Preacher Henri ch Muhlenberg for President. Preacher Fr. Val. Melsheimer for Secretary, and Reading as the place — as usual on the Festival of Trinity. Hereupon the meeting was closed with song and prayer. In the evening all the preachers went to church, listened to Rev. Mr. Wein- land on Mark 16 : 15, 16, and were dismissed by the pastor loci with thanksgiving and benedictions. 218 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Appendix. On Wednesday, June 6th, the entire Ministerium went in procession to the dedication of Franklin College, which was held in the Lutheran Church. A Reformed preacher, G. Weiberg, opened with prayer, the Episcopal preacher, Mr. Hutchins, delivered an English address on John 7:15, Preacher Muhlenberg, a German address on Ephes. 6 : 4, and the jMoravian preacher, IMr. Herbst, closed with an English prayer. That the above all happened thus, we witness : J. H. Chr. Helmuth, Henrich Muhlenberg, p. i. Presid. Secretary. FORTY-FIRST CONVENTION. 1788. Beading. May 18-20. On May 17th, most of the members of the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium assembled in Reading. May 18th. Being the Festival of the Trinity, they went to church, where Pastor Nicol. Kurtz preached in the morning on the Festival Gospel, Mr. Weinland in the afternoon on Gal. 4 : 6, and Dr. Muhlenberg in the evening on I Thessal. 5 : 20. All these preachers delivered edifying, clear and thorough sermons, to the blessing of the entire numerous assembly. May 19th, a.m. Dr. Kunze edified his audience by an impressive discourse on II Cor. 7 : 1-3 ; afterwards all the members went to the schoolhouse and opened the Synod with prayer. Members of the Ministerium in attendance were : 1. Dr. Muhlenberg, p. t. Prses. Minist. 2. Dr. Kunze. 3. Pastor Nic. Kurz. 4. <( Schulz. 5. (( Voigt. 6. « Krug. 7. « Schmidt. 8. « Wilh. Kurz. 9. « Wildbahn, Past. loc. 10. « Weinland. 11. « Buskirk. 12. (( Roeller. 13. « Streit. 14. « Goering, 15. « Lehman. 16. « Schroeter. 219 220 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 17. Pastor Ernst. 18. " Dan. Kurz. 19. " Melsheiraer, p. t. Seer. Minist. Licentiati. 1. Mr. Schaefer. 2. Mr. Carpenter. Dr. Helmuth had himself excused orally. Pastor Moeller and Schwerdfegcr excused themselves in writing. The Synod hereupon proceeded to the transaction of the business brought before it. 1. A letter from Winchester, in Virginia, was read, in which the Church Council of the congregation in that place asks for a collection to assist them in building a church. After mature deliberation, it was resolved, to give them the written reply, that in the present hard times and in the great scarcity of money, the Ministerium desires to be spared from this proposition ; especially since the Ministerium believes that the respective preachers have no right to give away public collections with- out the consent of the elders and deacons. The Sjiiod, however, re- commend to each member to do the best for the congregation named, as far as possible, by private contributions. 2. Mr. Hehl, a candidatus theologice, who had applied to the INIinis- terium already last year, handed in a writing, which was supported by word of mouth by four delegates. Its contents were that he desires to be received into the Ministerium. Hereupon it was resolved, that Mr. Hehl be examined before the Ministerium in the afternoon. 3. Upon motion of Dr. Kunze it was unanimously resolved, that Mr. Nicol. Kurz be declared Senior of the IMinisterium and that the i\Iiuis- terium expect from him, and herewith charge him, that whenever needed, he should assist the President in his work of supervision and admonition. 4. Two delegates from Misillum requested the Synod that their preacher, Mr. Lehman, might remain with them, and serve them every three weeks. Mr. Lehman left the decision with the Synod. But as the time was already too far spent, the further consideration of this matter was postponed until 3 o'clock p.m., and the Synod was closed with prayer. P.M. After prayer, 5. Mr. Hehl was brought in, and requested to write out his thoughts on the text Mark 1 : 15. " Kopent ye and believe the Gospel," and lay them before the ^Ministerium for their judgment. 6. The case of Mr. Lehman's was taken up, and the Synod demanded FOKTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1788. 221 from liim a definite statement, whether he wished to remain with the Misillum congregation, or to move to New Hanover. Hereupon Mr. Lehman stated that he desired in the coming Fall to leave the congre- gation on the Misillum and serve New Hanover. With this statement the Ministerium was satisfied. 7. Mr. Kiihl, a candidatus tlieologue from Hamburg, handed to the Ministerium a writing accompanied by two testimonials from the magis- trate, his former pastor, Pastor Berkbahn, in which he petitioned for reception into the Ministerium. Many grave accusations, and especially that he had as a candidate administered communion here in the country, led the Ministerium to the decision for the present not to have anything to do with Mr. Kuhl. 8. Mr. Liitge, who for some years was stationed in Westmoreland County as preacher, reported himself to the Synod, and asked to be received. He had been ordained by a certain Meyer, who himself was not ordained. The Ministerium declared his ordination invalid, and requested from him a written outline on Mark 1 : 15 : " Repent ye, and believe the Gospel." 9. Mr. Hehl handed in to the Ministerium his essay on Mark 1 : 15 to be examined. It was read, examined, and found too \)ooy for a common country schoolmaster. By a majority of votes, it was therefore resolved to reject Mr. Hehl on account of his incapacity. 10. A letter from Friederich Stadt [Frederick, Md.], signed by some members of the congregation at that place, was read. In it they expressed their dissatisfaction with their present preacher, Mr. Krug, and asked that he might be removed to some other place. On motion, it was therefore resolved, that the Church Council of the congregation should be written to concerning the matter. 11. Mr. Liitge handed to the Synod his outline on Mark 1 : 15. It was read, and the decision postponed to the next day. Hereupon the session was closed with prayer, and the further con- tinuation of business set for 9 o'clock A.M. of the following day. All the members of the Ministerium then went to church, where Pastor Schmidt preached on Acts 26 : 18. 20th, a.m. The preachers, after prayer, again began their consultations. 12. T^\o letters from Cumberland County, referring to Mr. Schiifer, were read, in which the congregations of that place petitioned for his ordination, and spoke well of his conduct among them to the present. Upon request, a part of his diary was read, with which the members of the IMinisterium expressed satisfaction. 222 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 13. On motion, it was Resolved, that in the lists of baptized, confirmed and deceased, the members of the Ministerium should mention the number, and the names of their congregations. 14. At the same time, the Hymn Book was discussed, and Resolved, that each member of the Ministerium make it his duty to make notes on the Hymn Book, and hand in these notes at the next Synod to the Ministerium so that they may be used for a new edition. 15. As the Synod also considered it necessary to petition the govern- ment for a charter, it was resolved, that Dr. Kunze and Dr. Helmuth, Pastor Schmidt and Friedr. Muhlenberg, Esq., shall be a committee to draw up a charter for the Ministerium, circulate their draft, and lay it, together with the comments received, before the next General Synod. 16. The case of Mr. Liitge was again taken up, and on motion, resolved to give him license to preach and to baptize, on the following conditions: 1. That he shall imj^rove his knowledge of Greek. 2. Keep a diary of his official acts. 3. Present to the IMiuisterium testi- monials from the elders and deacons of the congregations in which he preaches. 17. A letter from Pastor MoeUer, in Albany, was read in which he reports the condition of his congregations, and excuses his absence for this year. From this letter, as well as from the statements of the preachers stationed near him, the Synod recognized him as a faithful laborer in the vineyard of the Lord. 18. Likewise a letter from Pastor Schwerdfeger, in Feilstown, near Albany, was read. In it Mr. Schwerdfeger complains that he was excluded from the Ministerium, since his name was not printed in the Church Agende printed at Philadelphia. Thereupon it was resolved — 1. That it never was the intention of the Ministerium to exclude Mr. Schwerdfeger. 2. That his name was omitted in the print by oversight. 3. That it shall be inserted in the next edition. 19. On motion, it was Resolved, that Mr. Schiifer shall be ordained by a committee, in one of the congregations which he serves. 20. A writing from Culpepper County, referring to Mr. Carpenter, was read, in which the congregation recjuests the Ministerium that he be granted permission, not only to preach and baptize, but also to administer communion. It was therefore, upon motion. Resolved, that Mr. Carpenter write an essay on John 3 : 10, and lay it before the Ministerium. FOKTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1788. 223 20th, p.m. The preachers proceeded to the transaction of the remaining business. 21. The following addition to a resolution passed in York 1783, as No. 11, was considered necessary as an explanation : that it be regularly left to the wisdom of each preacher, to keep secret the name of the person in the restoration of persons who had fallen for the first time into the sin of fornication. 22. A motion of Pastor Voigt was read, to the effect that it was necessary also to receive laymen as members of the Ministerium. Resolved, that the motion be referred for examination to the committee, which is charged with the preparation of the charter. 23. In reference to the Licentiate Hinkel, who did not appear, and did not excuse himself by letter, it was Resolved, that Pastor Streit investigate the cause, and inform the President of it. The President was also authorized, upon request, to renew his license. 24. It was also considered necessary to examine the Ministerial Order by paragraphs, and to make such alterations or additions as •were considered expedient and suitable to our times and needs. There- fore, it was 25. Resolved, That the words in the Ministerial Order, Cap. I (mis- take for Cap. II) § 3, " In case he in advance " be cancelled. 26. In considering Cap, III, § 6, it was Resolved, That the committee which prepares the charter must also provide for a seal. 27. In considering Cap. IV, § 2, it was Resolved, That the licentiates are obligated to attend each Synodical Meeting, and that they have a right to present matters and make com- ments, but not to vote. 28. Resolved, That the entire 6th § of the 4th Cap. be cancelled. 29. On motion, it was Resolved, That the ordinandi and licentiates must sign a revers, which shall be entered on the Protocol. 30. JNIr. Carpenter handed to the Synod an essay on John 3 : 16, and it was resolved to renew his license. The Synod hereupon proceeded to the election of a President, a Sec- retary and the place of the next general meeting. By a majority of votes Dr. Muhlenberg was elected President, Pastor Melzheimer, Secre- tary, and Lebanon, in Dauphin County, as the place of meeting. The President closed with prayer and dismissed all the members, wishing them the blessing of God for their own prosperity and that of the 224 DOCmiENTARY HISTORY. coDgregations entrusted to them. They then again went to church to hear Pastor Goering preach on Rom. 8:14. After the sermon the Pastor loc , ]\Ir. AVildbahn, offered a prayer, thanked the members for the love shown the Reading congregation, and commended them all to the gracious care of the Faithful and Great Shepherd of the Sheep. That the above all happened thus, we witness : Heinrich Muhlenberg, P. t. President. Fr. Val. Melsheimer, P. t. Secretary. FORTY-SECOND CONVENTION. 1789. (June 7th, 8th, 9th, 1789). [PnOTOCOL OP THE SyNODICAL MEETING OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN MiNisTERiuM Held AT Lebanon, Dauphin County.] As most members of the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium arrived in the place named on the day preceding, they went to church on the 7th of June, the Festival of the Trinity. Dr. Muhlenberg preached in the morning on the Festival Gospel, Pastor Goering in the afternoon on I Tim. 4 : 16, and Dr. Helmuth in the evening on I Sam. 3:11- 15, before a numerous audience and with much blessing. June 8th, a. m. Pastor "Weinland preached on Phil. 3 : 20. The Synod was then opened in the church with prayer, and continued in the parsonage. The members of the JNIinisterium in attendance were : 1. Dr. Muhlenberg, p. t. Prses.-Minist. 2 " Helmuth. 3. Pastor Schulze. 4. <( Kurz, Past. loci. 5. (( Wildbahn. 6. a BushHrk. 7. (I Goering. 8. ti Roeller. 9. it Lehman. 10. (( Schroeter. 11. a Ernst 12. a Weinland. 13. a Schaefer. 14. « Melsheimer, Secret.-Minist. 15 225 220 DOCmiENTAEY HISTORY. Liceniiati. 1. Mr. Hinkel. 2. " Carpenter. 3. " Lutge. Dr. Kunze, Pastor Voigt and Moeller sent written excuses. Pastor Schmidt had himself excused by word of mouth. Tlie Synod hereupon proceeded to the transaction of the business brought before it. 1. A letter from Schippensburg, Cumberland County, was read, in which the congregation asked for a preacher, and suggested to the ]\Iin- isterium either Pastor Melsheimer or Licentiate Liitge, witla a yearly salary of £80 from four congregations. Resolved, That written answer be made to the congregation, and that it be referred to Licentiate Liitge, to call him as their preacher. 2. Two delegates from East Pennsborough, Cumberland County, handed to the Synod a letter stating that they desired that the Rev. Ministeriura might ordain their schoolmaster, Jacsinsky by name. At the same time they orally set forth their complaints against Pastor Schiifer, that he held prayer meetings in the houses where he stayed over night, and thereby offended many. Hereupon the ]\Iinisterium reached the decision : 1. That their written request in reference to Mr. Jacsinsky could not be granted, as he does not possess the necessary qualifications required by a preacher. 2. In regard to Pastor Schiifer, both delegates were reproved in love and meekness, and it was shown that their complaints were insufficient and trifling, and that the ^linis- terium approves the manner in which Mr. Schafer conducts his office. Closed with prayer. p. M. After prayer 3. Various writings of complaint against Mr. Schroder were laid before the Synod and read. After mature deliberation, it was resolved, that a committee earnestly and thoroughly investigate these serious com- plaints, and report to the Synod. Further, Resolved, That Dr. Hclmuth, and Pastors Schulz, and "Wilhelm Kurz be a committee, and that all communications referring to these com- plaints be given into their hands for examination. 4. A letter from the INIanhcim and IMount Joy congregations was read, in which they petitioned the ]\[inisterium for a preacher. Resolved, that the Manheim and !Mount Joy congregations be advised, to unite with other congregations, hand their decision in writing to the President, and then upon his advice call Pastor I\I(iller as their j)reacher. 5. The congregation in Friedrichstown laid its petition for a preacher FORTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1789. 227 before the Ministerium in writing. At a Conference Meeting (Special Synod), they had been promised, that at the next General Synod, their present preacher as well as the congregation itself should be cared for. It was therefore resolved, that Dr. Helmuth should write to the congre- gation, and Dr. Muhlenberg to Pastor Krug, and propose Louisburg in Dauphin County to the latter 6. A letter from New Hanover of similar contents was also read, and resolved, that written answer should be sent to the New Hanover Con- gregation, stating that the Rev- Ministerium regarded Pastor Weinland a suitable person, to whom they might apply and invite him to preach a sermon. (Gastpredigt). 7. Several testimonials from Shenandoah County in Virginia, referring to Licentiate Mr, Hinkel, together with his own diary, were presented to the Ministerium. The congregations expressed their satisfaction with the entire official conduct of Mr. Hinkel, and recommended him to the Synod as a faithful laborer in the vineyard of the Lord. It was there- fore Resolved, That his license be renewed. 8. At the same time Pastor Schulz moved that the Licentiates should hand in to the Ministerium their journals and four complete sermons each year, as otherwise the Ministerium had no opportunity to judge correctly of their presentation of divine truth. This motion was generally approved and accepted. 9. A letter from Hanover, and three others from Strasburg Town- ship, the Jerusalem, and Jacob's Church in York County were read, in which they asked the Ministerium for a preacher, but protested against Pastor Schroeter for reasons which they did not express before- hand, but were willing to declare, if required. As it seemed from one of these letters, that the congregations were in favor of Pastor Mel- sheimer, he promised to preach a trial sermon in the congregations as soon as his other duties would permit, with which the Synod expressed its satisfaction. 10. A delegate from Shamokin, in the name of several congregations, also petitioned the Ministerium for a preacher. As Pastor Schulz had promised to visit in that region, he was commissioned by the Min- isterium to propose Pastor Schwerdfeger. 11. The committee now after three hours^ examination of the com- plaints against Mr. Schroter, presented the result of their investigation to the Ministerium in writing. They had found him guilty of: !• Drunkenness ; 2. Lying ; 3. A shameful hypocrisy ; and 4. Sordid stin- giness. But as the time was already far spent, and that each member might meditate before the Lord upon this sad and humiliating case, the 228 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY, decision was postponed to the next day. Hereupon the session was closed with prayer, and all the members went to church, to hear Pastor Schiifer preach on Rom. 8:1. The 9th, a.m. 12. After prayer the unfinished business of yesterday was again taken up. The Synod earnestly and thoroughly examined the report handtd in by the Committee, and Mr. Schroter and the two delegates who had brought the complaints were brought in. Then all the members knelt before the Lord Who knoweth the heart, and the President in a fervent prayer besought the Lord, that by His Spirit He direct all the members in this important matter, grant unto him who was found guilty a contrite heart, and bring him to a thorough knowledge of his sins. After the prayer he earnestly addressed Mr. Schroter, and solemnly ex- horted him in the presence of God that he should not increase his offence by denying it, but by an honest confession should give glory to God. A deep sadness reigned throughout the assembly. IMr. Schroter confessed that he was guilty of all the charges, and promised publicly to make good in the congregations the offence given. The entire assem- bly was moved to tears. His open-hearted confession to some extent propitiated many members, who on the preceding day had insisted upon his entire exclusion. It was therefore resolved, that, Mr. Schroter hav- ing by his conduct severed his connection with the jNIinisterium, since he recognizes and confesses his transgression, and has promised to reform, be restored to membership, as soon as, in accordance with the promise, he has made public reparation for the offence pul)licly given. Further, resolved, that he be again earnestly warned that, if no im- provement follows, and he returns to his former conduct, he shall be entirely excluded from the Ministeriura. 13. Letters from Dr. Kunze, Pastor Voigt and Moller, were read to the Synod, in which the gentlemen named, excused themselves, that they could not attend this year's conference. The session closed with prayer. r. M. 14. After prayer, the license of Licentiate Mr. Liitge was, upon his request renewed for a year, with the admonition that he should dili- gently study the original languages, and tlie otlier tlieological branches. 15. Also a letter from Culpepper was read, in which the congrega- tions requested, that their preacher Licentiate Carpenter be granted per- mission also to administer the Lord's Supper Resolved, That his license be also extended to administration of the Lord's Supper and Confirmation. FORTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1789. 229 The Syuod hereupon proceeded to the election of a President, a Sec- retary, and a phice of the next General Meeting. Dr. Muhlenberg was chosen President, Pastor Melsheimer, Secretary, and Philadelphia the place of meeting. Hereupon the President closed the Synod with prayer, and commended all the members to the gracious guidance and leading of the faith- ful Great Shepherd. They again went to the church, to hear Pastor Ernst preach on John 10 : 14, 15. After the sermon the pastor loci, Mr. Kurz, thanked the members for the love shown the Lebanon con- gregation. Henrich Muhlenberg, p. t. President. Fr. Val. Melsheimer, p. t. Secretary. FORTY-THIRD CONVENTION. 1790. [Protocol of the SYNODicAii Meeting of the Evakgelical Lutheraji MiNISTERITJM IN NoRTH AMERICA, HELD IN PHILADELPHIA, FROM May 30th to June 2d, 1790]. Already on May 29th, most members of the Rev. Ministerium arrived at the place mentioned, in order to attend the meeting. May 30th, being the Festival of the Holy Trinity, they all went to Zion's Church. Dr. Muhlenberg preached in the morning on I Thess. 5 : 12, 13. Pastor Schulz in the afternoon on I John 5 : 9-12, and Dr. Kunze in the evening on John 21 : 16. Large audiences were present at these earnest and impi-essive sermons. In St. Michael's Church, Pastor Melsheimer preached in the morning on John 13 : 30, and Pastor AVeiulaud made an address on Ps. 34 : 12, to all the young people of the congregation. On May 31st, a. m., the business session was opened in the sacristy of Zion's Church. The members present were : 1. Dr. Muhlenberg, from Lancaster, p. t. prces. 2. " Helmuth, pastor loci. 3. " Kunze, from New York. 4. Pastor Wilh. Kurz, from Lebanon. 5. " Voigt, from Pciksland. 6. " Schulz, from Tulpehocken. 7. " Krug, from Friedrichsstadt, Maryland. 8. " Schmidt, pastor loci. 9. " Jung, from Hagerstown, Maryland. 10. " Roller, from Goschenlioppen. 11. " Schroter, from Ilaiiovertowu. 12. " Lehman, from Mesillum. 13. " Miiller, from New Holland. 14. " Ernst, from Grecnwicli, New Jersey. 15. " Weinland, from New Hanover. 230 FOKTY-TIIIRD CONVENTION, 1790. 231 16. Pastor Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. 17. " Sclmffer, from Germantown. 18. " Melslieimer, from Hauovertown, ^. t. secretary. Licentiati : 1. Mr. Carpenter, from Virginia. 2. " Jung, from Manheim. Senior Kurz, from Baltimore ; Pastor Goring, from Yorktown, and the two licentiates, Enderlein, from Schamoky ; and Hinkel, from Vir- ginia, excused themselves in writing. Dr. Muhlenberg reported to the Synod, that in the summer of the past year, a man named Mace, who for some years had been a school- master in Pennsylvania, had through diligent study acquired a fair knowledge of theology, and at present lives in Kentucky, had asked him for a license, which he, after a closer examination of his abilities, had also granted him. The Dr. hoped that partly the remoteness of this field, and the fact that it was entirely without German preachers and partly the inconvenience of calling a Synod without loss of time, might sufficiently justify his action. The Synod found these reasons satisfactory, and declared the license granted to Mr. Mace valid. 2. Candidate Johann David Jung, who came from Germany in the Fall of '89, and had studied in Leipzig, handed to the Synod several recommendations from Germany, w'ith the request that he be received. Among these recommendations was also a licentia concionandi, given by Superintendent Pratge in Stade, together with other testimonials from worthy preachers of Germany. It was therefore resolved, That the license given by Dr. Muhlenberg ad interim be recalled, and another prepared either for the place where Mr. Jung is at present, or for other congregations that may be found. 3. The letter of excuse from Senior Kurz was read to the Synod. In it the Senior regretted that his age and weakness prevented him from attending Conference this year, exhorted the brethren to earnestness in the discharge of their duties, and asked to be remembered by all in their prayers before the Lord. 4. A letter from the Grinitsch congregation in Jersey was laid before the Synod by a delegate, stating that the congregation desire to ex- change their present preacher, Mr. Ernst, for some other minister. Pastor Ernst stated that he was willing to give up the congregation in September of this year, if they would pay the salary still due him. 5. A man named Ahl, who had set himself up as a preacher, 1, com- 232 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. plained to the Ministeriura of the conduct of Pastor Ernst towards liim ; 2, requested to be received as a member. As to the first point, he had publicly accused Pastor Ernst of gross sins, so that he was forced, in defense of his innocence and honor, to sue Mr. Ahl at law. The court had acquitted Pastor Ernst and condemned ^Ir. Ahl to pay the costs, and besides imposed a fine upon him. The !Ministerium did not believe ', itself authorized to overthrow this sentence of the court ; but it shall endeavor to persuade Pastor Ernst that he be satisfied with the pay- ment of the money spent by him on the trial. In reference to the sec- ond point : Pastors Bushkirk and Roller were commissioned by the Synod to investigate into the character of i\Ir. Ahl and report to the Ministerium. At the same time a letter was given to the two gentle- men from a certain George Vogel, who made some weighty objections against his reception. Closed with prayer. p. M. 6. After prayer, two letters from Friedrichstadt, in Maryland, were read. The congregation had held a general election, and now it ap- peared that ninety persons had voted in favor of retaining Pastor Krug, and twenty-two for a change. It was therefore resolved, that, since a majtjrity of votes Avas in favor of the remaining of Pastor Krug, the Ministerium could do nothing more than recommend that he accept a call to other congregations, if such should be received. Further resolved, that Dr. Helmuth shall accompany this decision with a letter to the congregation. 7. Two men, named Hinkel and Zink, presented themselves to the Synod and asked for admission. Resolved, That both shall write out an account of their lives, and the substance of their preaching, as briefly as possible, and hand them to the Ministerium for examination. 8. Letters from Hegerstadt were laid before the Ministerium by dele- gates. These letters contained many complaints against their present preacher, Mr. Jung. The Ministerium examined these complaints in the presence of the preacher and the delegates. Some of them, especially the neglect of catechisation and due visitation of schools, Mr. Jung sadly confessed ; others, on the contrary, he denied as being not proven. Hereupon the question was brought before the Synod for decision, whetlier the complaints against Mr. Jung declared him unfit for oflSce, and wlien this question was answered with NO, it was Resolved, That Pastor Jung be kindly admonished in regard to his neglect of catechisation and due visitation of .schools, and that in all points of the complaint against him, the entire Ministerium found uoth- FOETY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1790. 233 ing that would declare him unfit for his office ; that therefore the Min- isterium caunot approve of the steps taken by many members of the congregation, to call another preacher ; but rather desires that the com- plaining members be reconciled to their pastor, and forgive and forget faults which he admitted with deep regret, and also promised improve- ment. This decision was accompanied with a letter to the congregation. Witli reference to catechisation, it was resolved, that it is the duty of each preacher, wherever possible, to hold a catechetical service (Kiuder- lehre) every Sunday in his congregations. 9. A member of the Germantown congregation brought his complaints, against their pastor, Mr. Weinlaud. As the reason for these complaints .... rested upon a misunderstanding, they were reconciled .... again before the Ministerium. The Synod hereupon closed with prayer, and went to church to hear Pastor Wilhelm Kurz preach on Luke 15 : 20. June 1st, a.m. 10. A letter from Shamokin was read to the Synod, in which the congregation asked for a preacher. As the Ministerium suggested Pas- tor Ernst, he promised to undertake a journey of visit to that region. 11. Also a letter from Licentiate Enderlein was laid before the Synod, and it was resolved, that his license be renewed. 12. The two gentlemen, Hinkel and Zink, now handed in to the Synod their papers. The Ministerium saw from them that both gentle- men did not possess the necessary qualifications for the ministry, and therefore, resolved, that their request to be received, cannot be granted for the present. 13. Licentiate Carpenter handed to the Synod, besides his diary, also' four complete sermons. In reference to him the Ministerium resolved, that he be advised to prepare himself for a more thorough examination, in order that upon approval he might be ordained at the next Synodical meeting. The same action was taken in the case of Licentiate Jung. 14. Also a letter from Licentiate Hinkel was read, in which he excused himself that he could not attend this year's Synodical Meeting ; at the same time he sent four complete sermons for examination. It was hereupon resolved, that his license be renewed. Closed with prayer. June Ist, p.m. 15. After prayer, a delegate handed in letters from the congregations served by Pastor Schroter up to this time. The Ministerium was gratified to see from these letters that Pastor Schroter had reformed ; 234 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. and as it desired tliat all further quarrels be prevented, it was resolved, for this reason alone, that the former accusers of Mr. Schroter should return the papers entrusted to them by the Ministerium, and the con- gregations be earnestly admonished not to act uncharitably towards former accusers, but to treat them as brethren. At the same time Pas- tor Schroter was again admitted as a member of the Ministerium. 16. Pastor Goring's letter was read to the Ministerium in which he excused his absence this time, at the same time expressed his doubts concerning the accusations brought against Mr. Schroter, asked for a revision of the judgment passed upon him at the last Conference, and besides, gave ]\Ir. Schroter a good testimonial couceruiug the training of his children at home. This letter made a strong impression in favor of Pastor Schroter upon some members. The session was closed with prayer, and the members of the ]\Iinis- teriura again went to church, where Pastor Roller edified the congrega- tion from Matth. 7 : 13, 14. After the sermon tlie pastor loci, Dr. Helmuth, made a brief address to the congregation in general, thanked the members of the Ministerium for the love shown the Philadelphia congregation, and wished them all God's blessing and assistance in the performance of their important duties. Mr. Reiche, who is sufficiently known to the Ministerium, and at present is in needy circumstances, asked for assistance in his necessity. A collection was gathered for him, amounting to 13 thlr., 6 sh., 3 d. June 2d, a.m. 17. After the prayer, a letter from several congregations in York County was read, in which they asked fur a preacher. Eesolvtd, that Pastor Ernst, on his journey to Shamokin, also visit these congregations. 18. For Carlisle and the congregations united with it. Licentiate Jung was proposed, and Pastor Melsheimer was commissioned to attend to it further, as he had promised a visitation journey into those regions. 19. For the Holzschwamm and adjoining congregations, Pastor Schroter and Licentiate Hinkel were suggested, from which gentlemen they might choose their future preacher. 20. Upon njotion, it was resolved, that Pastor Graf, in New German- town, be invited to the next Conference by the President. 21. Dr. Kunze read several motions to the Synod, which he wished that they might be taken uj) for further consideration. As those motions were recognized as being very important, and the time was alreatly fur spent, it was resolved, that the motions made by Dr. Kunze be circulated and taken up at the next Conference. 22. Upon motion, it was resolved, that the pastors loci shall, in the FORTY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1790. 235 name of the Ministerium, thank the Philadelphia congregation for the love and respect shown the Synod. 23. Further, resolved, that thanks be extended to the President and the Secretary for their diligence and care in fulfilling their office. The Synod hereupon proceeded to the election of a President, Secre- tary, and the place for the next general meeting ; Pastor Schmidt was chosen President, Dr. Plelmuth Secretary, and Ncav Hanover (the Falk- ner Schwam) as the place of the Synodical Meeting. All the members then bowed before the Lord, and the President prayed to the Great Shepherd of the sheep, that He abide with His poor servants in the future, and crown the work of their hands with eternal blessing in all their congregations, to the praise of His glorious name. Henrich Muhlenberg, P. t. President. FORTY-FOURTH CONVENTION. 1791. Protocol of the Synodical meeting of the Evangelical Lutheran MixisTERiu.M IN Pennsylvania and the Adjacent States, held in Kew Hanover Township, in Montgomery County, June 19-22, 1791. On June 18th most of the members of the !Ministerium arrived. Sunday, June 19th, a. m. Dr. Kunze edified the meeting in the church from Acts 15 : 12. P.M. Candidate Jung preached on John 14 : 6. Monday, June 20th, a.m. Pastor Schafer preached on Matth. 5 : 2. After the sermon the business was begun, the following gentlemen being present : 1. Pastor Voigt, from Pikesland. 2. " Krug, from Friedrichstown. 3. " Schultze, from Tulpehocken. 4. Doctor Helmuth, Secret, of the ISIinist., from Philadelphia. 6. Pastor Schmidt, Praeses of the Miuist., from Philadelphia. 6. Doctor Kuntze, from New York. 7. " Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. 8. Pastor Weinland, from New Hanover. 9. " Buskirk, from Macuiishy. 10. " AVildbahn, from Reading. 11. " Roller, from Alt Goschenhoppen. 12. " Lehman, from IMesillum. 13. " Schroter, from Hanovertown. 14. " Ernst, from INIaxitany. 15. " Moeller, from Now Holland. 1 6. " Schafer, from Germantown. 23G FORTY-FOUKTH CONVENTION, 1791. 237 17. Candidate Liitge, from Scliippenstown. 18. " Zimmerman [alias Carpenter], from Virginia. 19. " Jung. Pastor Wilhelm Kurtz, in Lebanon, and Pastor Goering, in York- town, excused themselves in writing. From Senior Kurtz and Pastor Daniel Kurtz, in Baltimore, Pastor Jung, in Hegerstown, and Pastor Melsheimer, in McAllister, no letters were received. The meeting was opened in the church with prayer. The delegates from the respective congregations were heard. Most of them brought their reports in writing ; hereupon the session was closed with prayer. P.M. The Ministerium assembled in Mr. Weinland's dwelling, and after Pastor Voigt had made a fervent prayer, the following business was taken up and transacted : 1. Mr. Billmeyer, printer from Germantown, asked for the right of publication for the new Hymnbook, which was unanimously granted and prepared, as follows, to wit : Whereas IMichael Billmeyer, from Germantown, printer, requested the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium to grant him the right of publica- tion [copyright] for the new Hymnbook, and after careful investigation it was found that the only agreement concerning printing was made with the above Billmeyer ; he has also printed it in partnership with Peter Leibert ; but the partnership between the above-named Bill- meyer and Leibert is now dissolved, and said Billmeyer has also stated that his former partner and father-in-law, Peter Leibert, has de- clared that he will make no claim to the right of publication, and it is now necessary, in order to retain his right, to have the title of said book registered in the office of the Secretary of the District Court of Penn- sylvania, according to the recent laws of the Congress of the United States : — it is Resolved, That to the said Michael Billmeyer, to him, his heirs and assignees, for and in view of one of the said Hymnbooks bound, which he has handed to the Ministerium, and the reception of which is hereby acknowledged, the right be granted, and hereby is granted, w'ith exclu- sion of all other claims, to print as his property, to seU and have regis- tered in the office of the Secretary of the District Court for the District of Pennsylvania the book entitled " Erbauliche Liedersammlung," etc., in accordance with an act of the Congress of the United States, entitled " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies o maps, charts and books to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned." 233 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Resolved, That Michael Billmeyer neither shall nor dare, without the knowledge of tlie Ministerium, prepare a new edition of the said Hymn- book, because the Ministerium might, perhaps, wish to make various alterations. Resolved, That in case it be found in the future that, through laws already made, or yet to be made, something further be necessary on the part of the Ministerium for the above right given to Mr. Billmeyer, all the members herewith empower the President to make all further dis- positions in their name. Resolved, That the above resolutions be handed to Mr. Billmeyer and signed by all members of the Ministerium. Given at the Synodical Meeting at New Hanover, June 20, 179 L. [The names of the assembled preachers] 2. Two delegates from the Township Bedminster, in Bucks County asked in the name of the congregation for Mr. "Wichterman as their pastor, whereupon it was Resolved, That Mr. Wichterman write a brief exposition on John 3; 16, and that afterwards he be more fully examined on this passage and his exposition. 3. A candidate named Dill, who came here from Germany, applied for admission into the Ministerium, but as at the same time various ac- cusations were made against him, the accusers were first heard ; their statements, however, were not sufficiently weighty that on their account he could be entirely refused. Others from the region in which he lives spoke well of him, and as his testimonials from Germany also are good, it was Resolved, That ]\Ir. Dill shall have a license for one year, after having: been examined to-morrow. The situation and circumstances of the congregations where Mr. Dill is, furnished occasion, to Messrs. Ernst and Lehman, to make lengthy declarations against one another concerning all kinds of sad differences between them. Many members were most unpleasantly impressed with these statements, and they felt themselves compelled from the depth of their hearts to pray the Lord to be patient with us. Tuesday, June 21, a m. 4. After prayer, a letter from Greenwich, in New Jersey, was read, in which the Ministerium was requested to make provision that now and then a visit be 'paid them by one or other of the members of the Ministerium, until their vacant congregation would again be supplied, whereupon, it was — FORTY-FOURTH CONVENTION, 1791. 239 Resolved, That Messrs. Buskirk, Roller, and Scbaffer should attend to this. 5. A letter from the congregation in Schippenstown was read, in which the Miuisterium was requested again to reuew the license of Mr. Liitge, who also asked for it in percon, whereupon it was unanimously — Resolved, That Mr. Liitge's license be renewed for one year. 6. After the exposition, which had yesterday been assigned to Mr. AVichterman, was read, and he was further examined, the Ministerium found that it might well venture to give the said Wichterman a license for one year. 7. The attorneys (Mandatorii) of the Directors of the Halle Orphans' Home distributed the following sums from the interest of the Rodel- heim legacy, to the preachers present, as a contribution toward the payment of their traveling expenses, to wit: To Messrs. Voigt, 18/9; Krug, 18/9; Schulze, 18/9; Helmuth, 18/9; Schmidt, 18/9; Kuntze, 18/9; Muhlenberg, 18/9; Weinland, 18/9; Buskirk, 18/9; Wildbahn, 18/9; Roller, 18/9; Lehman, 18/9; Schr5ter, 18/9 ; Ernst, 18/9 ; Moller, 18/9 ; Schiiffer, 18/9 ; Liitge, 18/9 ; Jung, 18/9; Carpenter, 22/6. Total, 18 pounds Pennsylvania money. 8. Resolved, That the preachers in Philadelphia have a ministerial seal made, after the model presented, and pay the cost from the interest of the Rodelheim legacy. 9. After Mr. Dill was examined, a license for one year was given him, with the condition, however, that if he wished to be recognized as a member of the Ministerium he should entirely stay away from the congregation at Trexler's Church, because said church is within two miles of another church, which Pastor Bushkirk serves. 10. Two letters from Frederickstown, concerning Pastor Krug, having been read, one against him, the other in favor of him ; the Ministerium, after long deliberation, resolved to give the following answer to the said congregation, viz : Though, from the statements made by the two opposing parties, the Ministerium cannot possibly conclude that Pastor Krug is unfit for the office on account of his teaching or life, but will at all times be ready to testify to his constant faithfulness and uprightness, as also of his thorough knowledge of the doctrine of our most holy faith ; it feels constrained, in view of the disordered state of the congregation, as well as of the evident bodily weakness of our brother, earnestly to advise a change. The Ministerium promises its assistance in this direction wherever a door should be open, and recognizes it as Pastor Krug's duty to seek such opportunity himself, and wherever it oflfers to accept it out of love to the Kingdom of God ; but also requests the entire 240 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. congregation, and each of the parties so sadly divided, fur the love of Christ, upon which the congregation is built, in the meantime to bear with one another in love, to further the intention of the ^lini.sterium, and until this can be attained, not to offend the deserving Rev. Mr. Krug nor each other. It is also stated that the Ministerium has already in view active measures to carry out its intentions as speedily as pos- sible. The Ministerium only adds, that it is an establislied rule of its method of procedure, from which it cannot depart, notwithstanding the above, never to force a transfer without the will and free decision of the preacher. Afternoon. After prayer, 11. A letter from Rev. Mr. Schroter's congregations was read, in which, among other matters, it was stated that the former accusers of Mr. Schroter had made unfair use of a certain decision of the Minis- terium, which had been made several years ago, in view of the circum- stances of Mr. Schroter at that time ; whereupon it was — Resolved, That Dr. Kuntze write a few lines to Pastor Melsheimer, in which he be requested, if possible, to recover from the accusera of Mr. Schroter, the written statement of the decision on this point reached last year; or, at least, exhort them to peace and quiet. 12. In letters from Mount Joy and Weiseichenland, the j\Iinisterium was requested to give them a certain Mr. Lenz as their pastor. Mr. Lenz appeared, and, after a conversation with him, he was exhorted to con- tinue to fear God from the heart, to serve the Lord in simplicity, but not to go into other congregations than those in which he is at present, nor administer the sacraments in them except " Nothtaufe ; " that under these conditions he shall appear again a year hence, and in the meantime apply himself to diligent study, especially in orthography. The IMinis- terium declared that only then would it be ready for a final decision regarding his request and that of the congregations, which have taken an interest in him, and that in the meantime he seek and use the advice and assistance of Dr. Muhlenberg and Pastor Moller. 13. A candidate named Espig appeared, and with him several dele- gates from the congregation in New Goschenhoppen, who asked for the said Mr. Espig as their pastor. After an examination a license for one year was given him, after he had formally renounced the ordination which he had received from the dismissed Insp. Gcitz in Germany ; it was also resolved, that he be under the supervision of Pastor Weinhind and Roller. 14. A paper from the honorable corporation of St. Michael's and Zion's congregations in and about Philadelphia was read, in which the FOKTY-FOURTH CONVENTION, 1791. 241 said corporation stated, that iu their opinion the general welfare of all the Lutheran congregations would be advanced, if the delegates of the respective congregations had a seat and a vote in every meeting of the Ministerium — whereupon it was Resolved, That each of the United Congregations be authorized to send one delegate to the next Synodical Meeting, who under certain restrictions can attend the deliberations of the Ministerium, but must provide for his own expenses and lodging — further it was Resolved, That Drs. Kuutze and Helmuth draw up a plan, in which the above resolution be further defined, and that they lay this plan before the Synodical Meeting next year. Resolved, That the two members named, look over the Ministerial Order, and change it as they judge necessary, and present such altera- tions also to the next meeting. Closed with prayer. Wednesday, June 2 2d, a.m. Opened with prayer. 15. Papei-s by a man named Ahl were handed in, in which he requests to be received into the Ministerium. After mature consideration, it was resolved, that the Ministerium can have nothing tp do with him. 16. A candidate named Stock, who formally was principal of a school, requested that the Ministerium ordain him for the ministry. After due consideration the Ministerium advised him to remain in his school for a time, as he could there labor profitably, and besides had no call to the ministry from a congregation. 17. At the request of Pastor Weinland it was resolved to cancel cer- tain words in the Protocol of the Ministerium for the year 1790, viz.: in the 9th section, in the 3d, 4th, 5th and 6th lines. 18. Resolved, That the Secretary shall look through the Protocol, and copy all the decisions of the Ministerium into a book, and they shall determine our usual way of proceeding, and serve as a rule, and that such decisions shall have the same force as the articles of the Ministerial Order themselves. Likewise, that it be the Secretary's duty to familiarize himself with such decisions of the kind described, in order that he may at all times inform the members who ask regarding them. 19. In connection with the motion that the Candidates Zimmerman [alias Carpenter] and Jung be ordained to the ministry, an incident was mentioned which occurred between the said Mr. Jung and a Mr. J\leyer, in which Mr. Jung made a certain written declaration to satisfy the said Meyer. After due consideration, the opinion of the united members of the Ministerium was, that the writing which Candidate Jung gave to Mr. 16 242 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Meyer, was the effect of extreme fear and perplexity, that from his relation it can be noticed, that he knew the facts concerning Mr. Meyer in Germany only through the relation of other persons, and possibly at the time when he signed the writing prepared by ^Mr. Meyer, through his representations thought them more innocent ; and tliat the IMinis- terium enjoin him to make no other use of whatever documents refer- ing to the matter might be sent to him from Germany, than to recover from said ]\Ieyer the writing signed by him — whereupon it was Resolved, That the Candidates, Johann David Jung and Wilhelm Zimmerman, be now ordained. 20. The Ministerium then chose by a majority of votes, Pastor Schmidt as President, Doctor Helmuth as Secretary, and Lancaster aa the place of the next Syuodical Meeting. 21. Finally both the above-mentioned Candidates, Jung and Zimmer- man, were ordained and solemnly consecrated to the ministry by the President in the presence of the Ministerium and several delegates of the congregations, whereupon the President closed with prayer, and the assembly sang the verse, " Was ich gethan hab und gelehrt," from " Nun freut euch lieben Christen," etc. Then the members of the Min- isterium parted and started on their journey to their respective homes. This is witnessed by Johann Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. Pneses Ministerii. F. H. Christian Helmuth, p. t. Secretary. FORTY-FIFTH CONVENTION. 1793. In the year 1792, on the 3d of June, the members of the United Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium of Pennsylvania and adjacent States together with various delegates, had arrived at Lancaster, and attended public worship. In the morning Senior Kurz preached on II Tim. 2 : 19 ; in the afternoon President Schmidt on John 5 : 39, and in the evening Rev. Mr. Melsheimer, on I Cor. 3 : 21, 22. June 4th. In the forenoon, at 9 o'clock, the preachers and delegates assembled in the school-house, and after the Synodical Meeting had been opened with prayer, it was found that the following preachers were present : 1. Senior Kurz. 2. Mr. Wilhelm Kurz, 3. " Andreas Krug. 4. " Emanuel Schulze. 5. " Dr. Heinrich Helmuth, Secretary. 6. " Friedrich Schmidt, President. 7. " Friedr. Wildbahn. 8. " Christian Streit. 9. Rev. Mr. Roller. 10. " " Gering. 11. " " Melsheimer. 12. " " Schroter. 13. " " Moller. 14. " " Daniel Kurz. 15. " " Schiifer. 16. " '' Carpenter. 17. And Pastor lod Henrich Muhlenberg. Licensed candidates were present as follows : 1. Mr. Paul Hinkel. 2. " Diel. 3. " Wichterman. Delegates were present from: 1. Philadelphia. 2. Lancaster. 243 244 DOCUMEKTAKY HISTORY. Yorktown. 4. Friedricbsstadt. 5, Hegersstadt, and from several other small conf^regutions. Letters of excuse were received from: 1. Dr. Kunze. 2. Rev. Mr. Lehman. 3. Rev. Mr. Ernst. 4. Candidate Liitge. 5. Candidate Espich. The transactions of this day were as follows : 1. The Protocol of the last Syuodical Meeting was read. The dele- gates from Philadelphia expressed the wish that the motion made in the last Synodical Meeting, viz. : " To receive the delegates of the congre- gations as associated members," be now approved. Hereupon two plans drawn up by Drs. Ilelmuth and Kunze were read in the presence of the delegates, stating how in future delegates of the United Congregations should attend and vote with the preachers. After the delegates had withdrawn the two plans were compared and adjusted, and it was decided that regular delegates shall have seat and vote in the Synodical Meeting, under certain restrictions which are mentioned in the new Ministerial Order. 2. After the delegates had returned, letters and testimonials concern- ing a collection for a Lutheran Church building in North Carolina were read, and it was Resolved, that the preachers and delegates should exert themselves to encourage their congregations to give the collectors men- tioned in the letter as much assistance as possible, and a cojjy of this resolution was given to the collectors. 3. Upon motion, it was Resolved, that the ordained preachers assemble in the parsonage to-morrow morning, at 6 o'clock, in order to determine more in detail the arrangement for the Ministerial Meeting, in distinc- tion from the Synodical Meetings. 4. In the evening Mr. M. Moller delivered a sermon on John 3 : 14-16. June 6th. Early, at 6 o'clock, the ordained preachers assembled in the parson- age, and further deliberated upon the arrangement of the Ministerium and the INIinisterial Meeting. The above plans were examined more closely, and it was determined, that a class of catechists shall be established. At 9 o'clock the preachers all went to the school-house again, to take up Synodical business, and after prayer, 5. Letters from Friedricbsstadt, for and against Rev. Mr. Krug, were read, and witnesses heard from both ])arties. After lengthy debates, it was Resolved, that both parties be exhorted to arrange an election of a preacher, and to call another pastor from the Ministerium to Friedrichs- stadt, and that this resolution shall be made known to the entire con;rrcgation. FORTY- FIFTH CONVENTION, 1792. 245 6. Letters from Yorktown and other congregations united with it, were read ; also from Canecocheague and neighboring congregations. In the former request was made that Rev. Mr. Goring return to his former congregations ; the latter petitioned that he remain in his present congregations. Mr. Goring himself had stated that he would leave it to the decision of the Ministeriuni. Hereupon it was Resolved, that Drs. Helmuth, and Miihlenberg and Rev. Roller be a committee to investigate the matter together with dele- gates from both places, and Rev. Goring. The committee retired, and soon thereafter proposed the following action : That Rev. Mr. Goring be advised to return to his former congrega- tions in Yorktown after three months, and not earlier, because, under the circumstances, it would not be right to leave Hegerstown earlier ; That the Yorktown congregation pay to the Hegerstown congregation the expenses of Mr. Goring's moving from York to Hegerstown ; That Mr. Carpenter on his return home go by way of Hegerstown and preach in the congregations there, to see whether those congrega- tions might at once be again supplied by him. That in case either Mr. Carpenter or the congregation do not decide to accept this arrangement, the congregation shall report to the Presi- dent, who shall then invite some other preacher. This motion of the committee was approved by the Synodical Meeting. 7. Letters referring to Lebanon were read, and Resolved, That as soon as a suitable opportunity offered to transfer Rev. Mr. Wilhclm Kurz, the congregation shall be free to extend a call to another preacher ; that, in the meantime, the congregations which have no preacher be served as much as circumstances permit by the neighboring preachers. 8. A letter from the so-called Schuster's Congregation was read and Resolved, that the members who belong to the new church retain their right in it, but that they attend worship in the old church, and shall contribute to it ; the preacher also shall preach in the old church. 9. A Latin and German communication was handed in by a certain Carl Stock, in which he petitions for permission to preach. It was con- sidered advisable for the present to have nothing to do with him. 10. Letters concerning Mr. Wichterman were presented, containing testimonials from his former and his present congregations, both speak- ing well of him. In the latter his ordination was requested. Resolved, that his license be renewed. 11. Letters from ]\Ir. Dill's congregations and a communication from him were read. In the former he is commended, in the latter he asks for ordination. 246 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Resolved^ To renew his license. 12. A letter from Mr. Espich was read, in whicli he excused his absence. Resolved, To renew his license. 13. Letters from Downey town and Candidate "Wiegand were read. Resolved, To grant him" a license. 14. A petition from one ]Mr. Jacinsky was read and Resolved, That we could have nothing to do with him, because he had twice already accepted ordination in a manner which the Synodical Meeting disapproves. 15. A letter from St. John's Church was read and resolved, that a committee be appointed from the delegates to adjust existing differences, and that Messrs. Friedrich Miihlenberg, Kiimmerer and Hof be the committee. After some time the committee reported as follows : " That a strict investigation shows that both parties acted too hastily, and that the best way to restore peace would have been to send the letters of both parties to the President of the Ministerium ; but as the complainant, Mr. Kesselring, for many reasons would not consent to this, the com- mittee could do nothing more than exhort very earnestly to unity and peace which both parties promised to establish and maintain ; there- fore, the committee presents the following motion for approval : That both parties be earnestly and fraternally exhorted to unity and peace, and that beyond this the Synodical Meeting have nothing to do with the matter. This motion was accepted. 16. Lettei-s from Whitpain were read, in which request was made for a preacher. Resolved, That Candidate Dicl may accept the congregation if they give him a call. 17. Since the Sjmodical business was herewith ended, the meeting pro- ceeded to the election of its officers and the place of its next meeting. Pastor Schmidt was chosen President and Rev. Miihlenberg Secretary, and Philadelphia appointed as the place of meeting. 18. In the evening Dr. Helnmth preached on Heb. 10 : 32. Appendix of the Transactions of the Ministerium in THE Ministerial Meeting. It was Resolved that Licentiate ^Ir. Hinkle and Messrs. Meier, Riitz, Jaeger, Schmucker and Bence be examined in writing, and advanced, according to the result of the examination. While these gentlemen withdrew and answered the questions given them, the Ministerium carried on some theological discussions. FORTY-FIFTH CONVENTION, 1792. 247 The answers were handed in and carefully examined, and hereupon it was 1. Unanimously Resolved, That Mr. Paul Hinkel be ordained this evening (June 6) at public service. 2. Unanimously Resolved, That Mr. Riitz be catechist under the supervision of the preacher in Hanover, in the Schuster's, Sattler's, Bleimeier's and Frey's churches. 3. Unanimously Resolved, That Mr. Jaeger be catechist in Williams- town and Greenwich, under the supervision of the pastor in Goschen- hoppen. 4. Resolved, That Mr. Schmucker be catechist in the Quickel's Church, under the supervision of the preacher in Yorktown. 5. Resolved, that Mr. Aug. Fx'iedrich Meier be licensed as candidate for Teilstown, Rensellaer, Veyk, Hellenberg and Bieverdam, in New York State. 6. Resolved, That Mr. Peter Bence be catechist for Weiseichenland, Mountjoy, Middletown and Harrisburg, under the supervision of the pastor in Lancaster. After the close of the ministerial transactions public service was again held. Mr. Carpenter preached on Ps. 32 : 1, and the pastor loci dismissed the assembly with benedictions. Last of all, Mr. Paul Hinkel was ordained by the President, assisted by Drs. Helmuth and Muhlenberg. Id quod factum testaniur. JoH. Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. President. F. H. Christian Helmuth, P. t. Secretary. CONSTITUTION OF 1792. (RepKINTED IK 1813 AKD, WITH MANY AlTENDStENTS, IN 1841.) MINISTERIAL REGULATIONS OF THE GERMAN EVANGELICAL* LUTHERAN CONGREGATIONS IN PENNSYLVANIA AND THE ADJACENT STATES. Chapter I. — The Name. "We, the Evangelical Lutheran ministers of Pennsylvania and the adjacent States, who acknowledge one another as one Body, by the sub- scription of our respective names to these ministerial regulations, denominate our association : " The German Evangelical Lutlieran Ministerium in Pennsylvania and Adjacent States;" and our conven- tion : " A Ministerial Meeting," and our convention with the Delegates of the United Congregations, " A Synodical Meeting." Chapter II. — Of the Senior. 1. The Ministerium acknowledges a Senior, a dignity granted to the oldest and most meritorious of our pastors by election of the ordained ministers, which he retains for life, provided, his conduct is conform- able to the station, which he holds. The election is by ballot, and without nomination. 2. The Ministerium honors the Senior as a father, and cheerfully re- ceives his advice, admonition and reproof in all cases, wherein his experience may prove beneficial. Chapter III. — Of the President. 1. The President of the Ministerium is also President of the Synodi- cal ISIeeting, and presides in the sessions, and is respected as an over- seer [Aufseher], both during the sessions and at other times. 2. Ordained ministers solely are ' eligible to this office. He is an- nually elected by a majority of votes of the ordained ministers, licensed candidates, and the delegates of the congregations, in the commence- ment of the session, after the delegates have been enrolled. 3. lie continues in office until liis successor has been elected at the next annual Synodical Meeting. He is re-eligible for three suc- cessive elections only. 248 THE CONSTITUTION OF 1792. 248 4. He is entitled in Synodical and Ministerial Meetings to offer reso- lutions and to express bis opinion, as well as any other member. 6. Wben the votes are even, he has the casting vote, but in no other case has he a vote, except in elections by ballot, but in that case he has no casting vote. 6. He nominates the committees with consent of Synod ; in contested cases, however, each party may choose one arbiter and the President the third. 7. He, in connection with the Pastor loci, appoints the ministers that are to officiate during the session. 8. The President ordains candidates with the assistance of two or more ordained ministers. The act of ordination is to be performed in public meeting, whenever possible, but no candidate can be ordained unless two-thirds of the ordained ministers present consider him a suit- able subject for ordination. 9. The rule concerning ordination applies also to licenses. The Presi- dent can grant them only in a general Ministerial Meeting, and with the consent of two-thirds of the ordained ministers. 10. He appoints the committee of examination of candidates and catechists, although each member is at liberty, in due order, to examine candidates still further. 11. He is to admonish an erring brother several times in private ; if this admonition prove unavailing, he brings the case before the meeting for investigation and decision. 12. He is to sign and deliver the resolutions passed in Synod to the delegates of the congregations. 13. It is his duty to sign all ordination certificates, licenses, &c., and to see that they receive the seal of the Ministerium, and that they are given into the hands of those persons for w'hom they are designed. 14. He is to subscribe the proceedings of Synod in the written min- utes. 15. It is his duty to see that soon after every Synodical or IMinisterial Meeting all the instruments of writing are delivered into the Archives. Chapter IV. — Of the Secretary. 1. The Secretary of the Ministerium is also Secretary of Synod and is elected annually at the same time and in the same manner, as well as on the same conditions under which the President is elected 2. Ordained ministers only that are suitable and experienced can be chosen for this office. 3. It is his duty to write letters, licenses, certificates of ordination, &c. 4. He countersigns the ordination certificates, licenses, resolutions of 250 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Synod for the delegates as well as the proceedings of Synod in the writ- ten minutes. 5. It is his duty to give at least six weeks' previous notice in one or several German papers, of the place and time for holding a Synodical Meeting. 6. He is to keep a list of all the ordained ministers, licensed candi- dates and catechists, with place of their residences ; and of the respec- tive congregations in connection with the Ministerium, and the names of the ministers serving them. Chapter V. — Of the Members of the Ministerium. There are three ranks of pastors in the Ministerium, viz : Ordained ministers, licensed candidates and catechists. Article I. — Of Ordained Ministers. 1. All ordained ministers are equal in regard to rank or title, except- ing the officers spoken of before ; they have therefore, in their congre- gations, no other superintendents but these officers^ and these only in so far as this Constitution renders it incumbent on them, to impart their views and advice to ministers. 2. No minister therefore is permitted to perform ministerial acts or official duties in the congregations of another pastor, except with his consent. 3. Every pastor may, as circumstances require, introduce regulations in the churches of his charge, though care should be taken, that as far as possible there should exist a pleasing harmony with the reguUitions in the other churches. 4. The minister may leave his congregation and take the cliarge of others, though his duty requires him to act conscientiously in such a case as before God, and he is to inform the President of the change as soon as possible. 5. Whenever important questions of conscience are to be examined and decided, the ordained ministers alone are to be entitled to a vote in the case. 6. Every ordained minister possessing the requisite qualifications, time and opportunity, has the right and liberty to take under their in- struction young men, desirous of devoting themselves to the ministry, and by oral instruction, the recommendation of good books and practi- cal directions, to prepare them for the service of the Lord, and when- ever a student so instructed has obtained a systematic knowledge of the doctrines of salvation, the gift of speaking, au unblemished character THE CONSTITUTION OF 1792. 251 and evidences of experimental religion, his instructor may permit him to preach. 7. When a regular ordained minister desires to be received into our connection, the vote is to be taken in a general Ministerial Meeting, but none can be acknowledged as an actual member, who does not receive two-thirds of the votes of the ordained ministers present. 8. Ministers, loho either by express request or with the consent of thei'x Ministerium are sent to this country, by a European Institute, such as the Orphan-house of Halle, or some Evangelical Consistory or Ministerium, cannot be rejected, unless the objections of two-thirds of the ordained ministers present are important and established. Article II. — Of Licensed Cakdidates. 1. A licensed candidate is confined to those congregations which have been confided to his care by the Ministerium. 2. Without the approval of the Ministerium or its ofiicers he is not permitted to leave the congregations to which he has been appointed, or exchange them for others. He is likewise prohibited from performing ministerial duty in any other congregation, except ?f requested by an ordained minister to ofiiciate for him. 3. He is to preach the Word of God in its purity according to the law and the gospel, he is to diligently instruct the children, to visit the schools and the sick, endeavor to increase in knowledge, and adorn his office by a Christian walk and conversation. 4. He performs all ministerial acts in the congregations entrusted to his care, during the term of his license. 5. He is to keep a journal of his official acts and to submit it with several fully written sermons annually to the inspection of the Minis- terium, and at the same time to return his license for renewal. 6. It is his duty to appear annually at Synod, in which he has seat and vote, and likewise attend the Ministerial Meeting. 7. But if on account of distance or any other important cause he should not be able to attend Synod, it is his duty, with a written excuse, to send his journal, the sermons and his license to the Ministerium. Article III. — Of Catechists. 1. The catechist is subject to the general superintendence of the Min- isterium and its officers, and besides this to the particular care of one of the neighboring ordained ministers, who is to be named as such in the catechist's license, and whom he has to respect as his instructor and father ; whose directions he follows in continuing to serve the Lord, and 252 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. the extension of his theological knowledge, and whose advice he seeks in important cases. 2. The catechist is, however, not to be considered an adjunct to his instructor, but attends to the congregations assigned him ; the instructor is therefore not permitted to send him arbitrarily into other congrega- tions to perform official duties for him, but it is the instructor's duty to assist the catechist entrusted to him with paternal advice, so that both may perform their respective offices with profit to the congregations. 3. The catechist is to preach the Word of God in purity to the con- gregations assigned him by the Ministerium, catechise the young, bap- tize, visit the schools and the sick, attend funerals and instruct the con- firraands. 4. He is however not permitted to confirm or administer the Sacra- ment of the Lord's Supper, but whenever such ministerial acts are to be performed in his congregations, he has to request his instructor some time previously, to discharge these official duties for him ; in that case the instructor appoints a day for that purpose, and performs these min- isterial acts either personally, or requests another minister in connection with the Ministerium to do it for him. 5. The catechist is not permitted without consent of the ^Ministerium or its officers, to leave the congregations entrusted to him, and to per- form official duties in other congregations. 6. If his duty permit it, he may keep a school, if there is no teacher in his congregation. 7. It is his duty to keep a journal of his official acts, and to send an- nually the same, with two catechetical sermons that he has written, for the inspection of the Ministerium and the Ministerial Session, together with his license for renewal. 8. He is permitted to attend the annual S}Tiodical IMeetings, but has no vote. But he has to appear before the Ministerial Session, if distance of location and other important circumstances do not prevent him. 9. If he cannot appear personally, it is his duty, with a written ex- cuse, to send his journal, sermons and license to the ^linisterium, the latter for renewal. 10. No one is to be admitted as catechist, whose walk and conversa- tion is not blameless ; he must be at least twenty years of age, have acquired a systematic knowledge of Christian doctrines and ethics ; he ought to possess some knowledge of human nature, manifest a gift of speaking, and above all things a practical knowledge of experimental religion. 11. He is to be examined by the Ministerium, and appointed by a license to the office of a catechist, before he can officiate in that capacity. THE CONSTITUTION OF 1792. 253 Chapter VI. — Of the Synodical Meeting. 1. A Synodical Meeting is to be lield at least once every year. Time and place, when not appointed by the preceding meeting, are to be left to the President. 2. The regular members of the Synod are the ordained ministers, the licensed candidates and the delegates of the United Congregations. 3. No minister is permitted to absent himself from the Synodical Meetings, unless in cases of urgent necessity, and if such a case occurs, the minister absenting himself has to render a written excuse to the body ; self-made official duties made for such, e. g., preaching, marry- ing, the giving of catechetical instruction, confirming, administering the Lord's Supper and the like, are not to be considered as cases of urgent necessity, and are no valid excuse for non-attendance. 4. "Whoever does not appear personally at the Synodical Meeting, or render a written excuse for his absence, shall be called to account by the President at the next Synodical Meeting. 5. If any minister neither attends the meeting of Synod nor renders a written excuse for non-attendance during three successive sessions, he is to be considered as no longer a member of the Ministerium. 6. Letters of excuse for non-attendance, as well as all other instru- ments of writing, are always to be directed to the President. 7. The pastor of the place, where the Synod is to meet, and the Church Council of that congregation, are to pi'ovide for the entertain- ment of the United Ministers, licensed candidates and catechists and their horses ; those who cannot be assigned are to be entertained at the expense of the congregation. 8. The ministers are to meet at the place of session one day previous thereto, so that the President may properly assign the appointments to preach, and no member is justified in leaving Synod previous to its close. 9. The delegates of the congregations may attend all the meetings of Synod, but not all are entitled to a vote ; those delegates only, from congregations served by ordained ministers or licensed candidates pres- ent, are so entitled. Delegates from congregations served by catechists have no vote at Synod. 10. It is therefore a fixed rule, that there are in Synod no more vot- ing delegates than tliere are ordained ministers and licensed candidates present ; but there are just as many delegates having a seat and voice, from every congregation, as there are ministers in actual attendance at the Synodical Meeting. 11. Every delegate claiming a vote has to produce every time before Synod and President a certificate of election from his minister, elders 254 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. and deacons ; that is, from the Church Council of that congregation or congregations whom he is to repre.-jent. 12. The delegates entitled to vote are to take scats apart from the rest ; they have a right to offer resolutions, give their opinions and votes in all cases, that are to be decided ; except in the case of a ques- tion of learning, orthodoxy or heterodoxy of a candidate or catechist ; his reception into or exclusion from the Miuisterium, or similar cases, ■which the Ministerial Session alone has to decide. 13. Every congregation that is served only by an ordained minister or a licensed candidate in connection with Synt)d, and every group of congregations, who unitedly enjoy the services of such a pastor, are en- titled to one delegate to Synod ; his expenses are to be borne by the congregation, and at the place of meeting each delegate has to provide for his board and lodging ; it is, however, left optional with each con- gregation whether to send a delegate or not to every meeting. 14. As therefore the United Congregations are represented in Synod by their respective delegates, and are entitled to seat and vote in that body, it is tlieir duty cheerfully to obey the regulations and resolutions of Synod and the JNfinisterium. 15. On Sunday three sermons are to be preached in the place where Synod is to convene, and divine service is to be held every evening, but if Synod meets in the country, the evening services are omitted, and in- stead thereof a sermon is to be preached on IMonday at 9 o'clock, a.m., provided the state of business permit it ; and in that case the Synod meets immediately after divine service. After the service the pastor loci announces where the meeting is to be held. 16. Every session of Synod commences at 9 o'clock, a.m., and con- continues to 1 o'clock, P.M., and in the afternoon Synod meets at 3 o'clock and closes its session at 6 ; unless important business should re- quire more protracted sessions. 17. It is the duty of the President to begin the business precisely at ten minutes after 9 o'clock, a.m , and in tlie afternoon precisely at ten minutes past 3 o'clock ; even though but three ordained members besides himself should be present. 18. If the President should be detained, and at least five ordained ministers be present, they elect a President pro tern, and connncnce business ; and whatever shall have been transacted and resolved in such a meeting, shall be considered as valid as if it had been transacted by the whole body. 19. In the absence of the Secretary, the President appoints one pro tern. 20. If a nienil)er of Synod delay coming until after a full hour, tiie THE CONSTITUTION OF 1792. 255 President is to call him to account and to reprimand him in case of in- suliicient excuse. From this regulation the pastor loci is, however, exempt. 21. The order of Synodical business is as follows : a. The first session of Synod is opened with prayer by the President or Senior ; if they are absent, by the Secretary or one of the elder min- isters. b. After prayer the Secretary records the names of the ministers, licensed candidates and catechists present, together with the place of their residence. c. The delegates claiming seat and vote are now called upon for their certificates of election ; these being found in order, their names and the congregations which they represent, are registered. d. Afterwards the President or his substitute announces to Synod that the term for which the President and Secretary have been elected, has expired, and orders that the ministers, licensed candidates and dele- gates, entitled to a vote, are to elect a President and Secretary by ballot and appoints two superintendents of the election. e. After election the delegates and other members present their docu- ments to the President, or make a verbal declaration respecting the business they wish to bring before Synod. / The Secretary takes a record of the diflferent items in the order in which they are presented, and these documents are numbered in the order in which they have been entered into the minutes. g. The letters of excuse of absent members are read, and it is the duty of the Secretary to notice all the absentees in the minutes, whether they are excused or not. h. The minutes of the last Synod are read. i. The President lays before Synod all the transactions at special meetings, and also all letters which he has received and which have ref- erence to congregational matters. j. In the transaction of business Synod considers first the concerns of distant congregations and delegates, and those of nearer congrega- tions last. h. Every minister is to make an oral or written report to Synod of the names of the congregations which he serves, the number of the bap- tized, confirmed, communicants and deaths in each congregation, and lastly of the state of the schools. 22. When members of Synod or delegates have to make a communi- cation to the President alone, they are not permitted to call him out of the chair for that purpose, but are to wait until the session has ad- journed. 256 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 23. It is the business of the President to see that everything be in order ; that not two or more attempt to spealt at the same time, and that the right of each member of Synod to speak his opinion freely with- out interruption, be maintained, unless the speaker is out of order, when it is the President's duty to call him to order. 24. It is the duty of the President to take special care that every point brought before the house in constitutional order be duly consid- ered and fully discussed, and also that every regular motion made and seconded, and upon which no one has anything further to say, be plainly repeated and the votes taken. 25. The votes are to be given by simply saying Aye or 2fo, without any remarks. 26. When the press of business requires it, the President may ap- point one or more additional assistant Secretaries, whose office, how- ever, is to cease with the session. 27. All the business being transacted, the Synod enters into an elec- tion by ballot for the time and place, where and when the next meeting is to be held. A majority of the votes is decisive. 28. Each session of Synod is to be commenced and closed with prayer, by appointment of the President. 29. The last session of Synod is to be closed by the Senior or Presi- dent. Note. — Before the Synod adjourns, the President states the time and place of the next meeting. Chapter VII. — Of the Ministerial Meeting. 1. After the transaction of all Synodical business, the Ministerium holds a meeting fur a half or an entire day. 2. This meeting is to be considered by the ministers, candidates and catechists as the most important, and no one is to absent himself, ex- cept for the most urgent necessity. 3. The Ministerium meets precisely at the appointed time, and the President introduces the sacred duties of this meeting by prayer, or has the Senior to do so. Here is likewise to be observed what has been stated in Chapter VI, § 16-20, in these ministerial regulations. 4. If candidates are to be licensed or ordained, or if catechists are to receive license as candidates, or if students are to be appointed as cate- chists or as candidates, first of all they are to undergo an examination respecting their doctrine and life. 5. The President asks all the licensed candidates and catechists to hand in their journals, sermons and licenses and divides the ordained ministers into committees, to examine the journals and sermons, and THE CONSTITUTION OF 1792. 257 have them read by the candidates and catechists, accompanied by their comments, for the improvement of the understanding and heart of the composers ; he also appoints the hour to report thereon to the Minis- terium. 6. After examination of candidates the licensed candidates and cate- chists withdraw from the Ministerium ; the committees report and the Ministerium decides upon the reports and the issue of the examination. a. Who of the candidates are to be ordained, and when and where ? b. Whose license is to be renewed ? c. Who are to receive license ? d. What catechists shall receive the license of candidates ? e. What cate- chists are to be continued as such? /. What new catechists are to be appointed and what ordained ministers are to be their instructors and advisers ? g. The President then orders the ordination certificates and licenses to be prepared before the JMinisterium does anything else, in order to publicly hand them to the persons designated. 7. This being done, the candidates and catechists are again called before the Ministerium, and the President announces — a. to the candi- dates for ordination, the time and place of ordination, h. He solemnly informs the licensed candidates of their duties according to this Consti- tution, c He receives from the candidates the solemn assurance by word of mouth and the giving of their hands as in the presence of God, that they will faithfully perform the duties prescribed to them. d. He delivers the license to each individual, e. In the same manner he pro- ceeds with the catechists. /. Finally he presents to every newly re- ceived minister, candidate or catechist a copy of our liturgy, provided he have none. Note. — The Ministerium may also, according to the circumstances of time and place, decide that § 7, Nos. 2-5, concerning licensed candidates and catechists, may be provided for in the church of the place, where the meeting is held, especially if at the same time candidates are to be ordained, as it would not be inappropriate, that, after the act, they should receive the Holy Supper. 8. The Ministerium uses its own seal for the confirmation of all min- isterial documents, certificates of ordination, licenses, etc. 9. All these acts of the Ministerium are to be arranged, that at least two hours be spent in the following exercises, in which all the pastors of the three orders of the ^Ministerium sliall participate : a. For mutual edification, h. For imparting to each other their experiences in the (iischarge of official duties, c. For engaging in the consideration of such Bible trtiths as the circumstances and wants of the church seem to require, in order to be advanced in knowledge, encouraged in faith- fulness and strengthened in faith. 17 258 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 10. The disti-ibution of such funds as are at hand is one of the last acts of the Ministerium. 11. The meeting is finally closed by prayer of the President or Senior. Chapter VIII. — Of the Archives of the Ministerium. 1. The Archives of the Ministerium are to be kept with care and not to be transported without sufficient cause from place to place. 2. AU the letters, petitions, complaints directed to Synod or the ^lin- isterium, all the answers, advices, testimonials, etc., of Synodical and Ministerial INIeetings are to be carefully preserved in them. 3. The written documents of each meeting are to be bound together in suitable form, and on the outside of each such package the number of the year is to be carefully noted. 4. The pastor of the place where the Archives are kept is superin- tendent over it, is bound to keep it in order and to render an account of the same when required. 5. Without consent of Synod or the Ministerium or its officers, the superintendent of the Archives is not permitted to loan out any docu- ment, much less to alienate or destroy it. Description of the Seal of the Ministerium. The seal of the Ministerium shows a vineyard, wherein some vines stand erect, while still others are prostrate. At the side a hand comes forth from the clouds with a knife and cuts down the erect vines ; while on the other side another hand from the clouds erects the vines that are prostrate. Over the vineyard shines the sun in the clear heaven, whose meridian is not yet reached. The inscription is : sigil. minist. Ger- man LUTH. in PENNSYLV. ET STAT. VICIN. Chapter IX. — Of Special or District Meetings. 1. Special meetings are to be held by pastors of the Ministerium, living contiguous to each other, as often as circumstances may require, and each congregation under the care of such minister may send a dele- gate to said meeting, having seat and vote. 2. A Chairman and Secretar}' are to be elected by said meeting, who are to attest the minutes and copies of the regulations. Their office ceases with the close of the meeting. 3. The objects of such meetings are to promote the welfare of the re- spective congregations and of the German schools within the District ; to examine, decide and determine the business and occurrences in their congregations that are brought before them ; provided, however, that each party enjoys the right of appeal to Synod and Ministerium fi'om the decision of the conference. THE CONSTITUTION OF 1792. 259 4. A special meeting is not permitted under any pretence whatever to enter upon business belonging to the Ministerium, as set forth in Chapter III, § 8 and § 9, and in Chapter VII, from § 4 to § 8, even if the officers of Synod were present. But the matters designated in Chap- ter VII, § 9, should be prominent subjects of deliberations for these spe- cial meetings. 5 The acts of the meeting are to be transmitted by the chairman to the President of the Ministerium, to be laid by him before the next Synodical or Ministerial Meeting. Additional Articles to this Regulation of the Ministerium. To Chapter V. — Article I. § 9. If an ordained member of the Ministerium removes from us and enters into connection with another Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium in the United States, which is acknowledged by us as such, said minis- ter shall still be entitled to seat and vote in this Ministerium ; provided he acts in conformity to this ministerial order, in as far as this is com- patible with the duties he owes the Synod with which he has connected himself. To Chapter V. — Article III. The President and Secretary of the Ministerium and Synod may grant to a candidate of Theology a license to perform such actus minis- teriales and duties as are permitted to catechists to discharge ; provided that said candidate produce unexceptionable testimonials, be desired by vacant congregations and have passed a satisfactory examination. Such license, however, is only valid to the next Ministerial Meeting, and re- quires no certificate ; but, nevertheless, it should, like all promotions granted by the President and Secretary, according to this order, be committed to writing. To Chapter VII. § 12. If any Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium in the United States, which has been acknowledged by us as such, but whose members do not otherwise stand in any close connection with us, should send a delegate to our annual meeting, said delegate shall be entitled to seat and vote in our sessions as a i*egular member ; provided, however, that said Min- isterium grants us equal rights and privileges. To Chapter VIII. § 6. Every member of the Ministerium, as well as every delegate of a congregation in connection with our body, shall have free access to the Archives, under the direction of the superintendent. FORTY-SIXTH COISrVENTION. 1793. On Trinity Sunday a majority of the members of the Evangelical Lutheran Miuisterium of Pennsylvania and the adjacent States, together with delegates, arrived in Philadelphia, and attended public worehip in both the Lutheran churches. In Zion's church Dr. Kunze preached in the morning on I Pet. 5 : 1 sq. ; in the afternoon, Muhlenberg, on Ezech. 33 ; 10, 11 ; in the even- ing, Rev. Mr. Geriug, on PhiL 2 : 12, 13. In St. Michael's there preached Rev. Mr. Daniel Kurz, Rev. Mr. Moller, Rev. Mr. David Jung. May 27th, a.m. In the forenoon, at 9 o'clock, the Synodical Meeting was opened in Zion's church, and, after prayer, a list of the members present was prepared, as follows : Of preachers, there were present : 1. Mr. Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken. 2. " Henrich Helmuth, from Philadelphia. 3. " Friedrich Schmidt, from Phihidelphia. 4. " Christoph Kunze, from New York. 5. " Henrich Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. 6. " Friedrich Wildbahn, from Reading. 7. " Jacob Buskirk, from Guinned Township. 8. '• Conrad Roller, from Indianfield. 9. " Jacob Gering, from Yorktown. 10. " Daniel Lehman, from jNIisillum. 11. " Heinrich ;M()ller, from New Holland. 12. " Friedrich Weinland, from New Hanover. 13. " Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. 14. " Friedrich Schiifer, from Geiniantown. 16. " David Jung, from Martinsburg. 16, " Willielm Carpenter, from Culpepper. 17. " Paul Ilinkel, from Shenandoah County. 260 FORTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1793. 261 LICENSED CANDIDATES. 1. " Caspar Dill, from Whitehall township. 2. " Joseph AVichterman, from Allentownship. 3. " Giiuther Wiegand, from Dannitown. 4. " Christian Espich, from Goschenhoppen. VOTING DELEGATES. 1. From Philadelphia, Messrs. Friedrich Muhlenberg ^ and Henry Kiimmerer. 2. From Lancaster, Messrs. Bernhard Hubley and Georg Hoff. 3. From Reading, Peter Filbert. 4. From Germantown, Christian Schneider. 5. From Culpepper, Ludwig Weinland. 6. From Shanandoa, Johannes Roller. 7. From Whitehall, Michael Deibert. 8. From Allentownship, Valentin Waldman. 9. From New Hanover, Henrich Gilbert. Hereupon the officers for this year were elected ; a majority of votes appointed Rev. Mr. Emanuel Schulze President, and Preacher Miihlen- berg, Secretary. The newly elected President had handed to him the various communi- cations, of which there were some twenty, and then began the real business, as follows : 1. The Protocol of last year was read, and signed by the former officers. 2. A letter from Rev. Mr. Christian Streit was read, in which he excused his absence with satisfactory reasons, and gave a pleasing report of a Special Conference held in Virginia, the Protocol of which was referred to the Ministerial Meeting. 3. Candidate Liitge excused his absence and recommended a man, Mr. Carl Stock. His excuse was not quite satisfactory to the meeting. 4. Pastor Voigt likewise excused his absence, and expressed the desire to be excused from attendance in the future. His excuse was accepted for this time, but he shall be informed in writing that the meeting desires his presence as often as his strength and circumstances allow. 5. The names of the absent preachers were noted, viz., as follows : Mr. Nicolaus Kurz sent a letter of excuse ; Wilhelm Kurz, Andreas Krug, Ludwig Voigt, Christian Streit, and Valentin Melsheimer were excused ; Johan Georg Jung died this year; Daniel Schniter, Friedrich Ernst, Samuel Schwerdfeger and Candidate Enderlein were not excused ; Liitge excused ; Meyer not excused. [' Speaker of U. S. House of Kepresentativee, 1789-91; 93-97.] 262 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 6. Letters from Friedrichstown were read ; one also from Senior Kurz, who is staying there for a time. No agreement has yet been reached. Hereupon a committee of five was appointed, again to investigate the matter, and to propose some action in reference to it. This committee consisted of the following gentlemen : Friedrich Muhlenberg, lienrich Kammerer, Georg Hoff, Pastor Wildbahn, Pastor Gering. May 27th, p.m. 7. A good testimonial for Rev. ]Mr. Weinland from the congrega- tions at New Hanover and Providence was read. This had reference to a complaint against him, which one man had prepared and sent to the Ministerium. This complaint was referred to the Ministerial Meeting. 8. Letters from Lebanon, the Bergkirche and Manheim were read, in which request was made for a preacher. It was Resolved, That Candidate Dill shall visit the congregations, and that he be proposed to them as their preacher. 9. Request was made by several congregations, that Catechist Jiiger be granted permission to preach in a new congregation in William Township, and that he receive a full license. The first point was granted, and the second referred to the Ministerial Meeting. 10. Letters from Hagerstown and neighboring congregations asked for Catechist Schmucker, and letters from Quickel and Wolf's congre- gation requested that he be allowed to stay with them, and receive ordi- nation. The latter was referred to the IMinisterial Session ; and as to the rest it was resolved, that Mr. Schmucker remain in his former con- gregations another year, but in connection with Rev. Mr. Goering and Daniel Kurz, he shall visit the Hagerstown congregation until they sup- ply themselves with a preacher. 11. The committee appointed sub. num. 6 brought in a report, which was read, and finally, after various changes was accepted, as follows : Resolved, That the members of the congregation who are not in favor of Rev. Mr. Krug, be advised to seek another preacher from the ]\tin- isterium, to serve them and the neighboring congregations, and that, to this end. Candidate Wichterman be proposed to them. lie or whoever may be called thither is earnestly admonished to live as much as pos- sible in unity and love with Pastor Krug. Resolved, That the said members of the congregation, as soon as they agree on a second preacher, send him a call, and provide for his neces- sary support. Resolved, That both parties be earnestly recommended to take the FORTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1793. 263 best care, that the church be used by both parties alternately and undis- turbed in their worship, and that schools and burial grounds be in com- mon. In the evening Rev. Mr. Schiifer preached on II Tim. 2 : 11, ff. May 28th, a.m. 12. Various additions to the Ministerial Order were proposed and accepted, and it was resolved, that they be printed as an appendix. 13. It was resolved that each preacher hand in the names of his con- gregations and a list of the common schools and of the baptized, con- firmed, communicants and buried. Mr. Emanuel Schulze serves the congregations in Tulpehocken Atolhen, Heidelberg, Berne, Schiifersstadt and Warwick. Dr. Helmuth, Pastor Schmidt, Dr. Kunze, Pastor Miihlenberg, Mr. Wildbahn, Mr. Roller, Mr. Gering, Mr. Lehman, Mr. MoUer, Mr. Weinland, Mr. Daniel Kurz, Mr. Friedr. Schafer, Philadelphia, Philadelphia, New York, Lancaster, Reading, Altgo, Schehoppen, Indiaufield, Tohickon, Yorktown, Tschochaly, Creutzkriek, MisuUum, Rockland, Kutztown, "Windsor, Hamburg, Bern, Brameschweig, 2. Albania, Greenwich, New Holland, Bergstrasse, Muddy krick, Allegheny, Strasburg, New Hanover, Providence, Baltimore, Germantown, Barren Hill, Bap- Con- Commu- Bur- Schools, tized. firmed, nicants. ied. 7 223 74 813 45 3 445 117 1183 203 1 89 22 62 1 148 69 723 47 1 148 58 2 1 84 38 313 36 2 90 22 250 23 264 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Bap- Con- Commu- Bur- Schools, tized. finned, nicauts. ied. David Jung in Virginia, Mr.Wilhelm Carpenter, Mr. Paul Hinkel in Virginia, Martinsburg, Scheppardstown, "Winchester, Neustadt, Staufierstadt, Steinskirclie, Culpepper, Swiftneugap, 192 112 232 18 378 11 Mr. Jacobus Buskirk Mr. Caspar DUl, Mr. Wicbterman, Mr. Giinther Wiegaud, Mr. Espich, Mr. Jager, Mr. Schmucker, 90 900 ir 123 1 \ 236 123 383 42 Macunshy, Ober-Milford, Obersaccon, Salisburg, Jordan, Earltownship, Wisseuburg, Allentown, 2 25 Downingtown, Winterskirche, Zion, Ober Bermudien, Thomas, Jacobs' Kirche, I New Goshenhoppen, ^ Lower Milford, J Williams Township, "] Greenwich, Molltown, Ilardwick, Quickelskirche, Schusters, Bleimeiers, Freys, }■ 33 48 97 Sattlers, Stab leys K. Weiseichen, Rupho, Middeltown, J 14. It was resolved that each congregation have its own church record, and that it be kept by tlie teacher of the congregation. 15. Resolved, That the two preacliers in Phihvdelpliia. have a box prepared at the expense of the Synodical INIecting, in which to preserve the Archives of the Synodical Ministerial Meeting, and that eacli of tlie United Preachers have free access to it, under the supervision of tlie warden. 101 34 17 53 127 Mr. Rutz, Mr. Peter Benz, 18 14 15 15 FOETY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1793. 265 16. Finally, by a majority of votes, Reading was appointed as the place for the next Synodical Meeting on Trinity Sunday, 1794, and herewith the Synodical Meeting was closed. May 28th, p.m. In the afternoon at 3 o'clock the preachers assembled in the school- house, and after devout prayer, held their Ministerial Session. 1. The papers of candidates and catechists were handed in accord- ing to the Ministerial Order. Candidate Dill handed in a sermon and favorable testimonials. Can- didate Espich handed in no papers, Candidate Wichterman handed in three sermons, his license, a short diary and favorable testimonials ; Candidate Wiegand, one sermon and his license ; Candidates Ender- lein, Liitge and Meier were not present and had not sent in any sermon or diary. 2. The catechists were called up, and 1. Mr. Jaeger handed in two sermons, his diary, license and testi- monials ; 2. Mr. Schmucker, two sermons, his diary, license and testi- monials ; 3. Mr. Riitz, three sermons, his diary, license and testimonials ; 4. Mr. Benz, two sermons, his diary and testimonials, the license he had forgotten. 3. A candidate from Germany, Mr. Georg Friedrich Ellisen, ap- plied for admission into the Ministerium and was highly recom- mended by various preachers who had become acquainted with him. 4. A certain Johannes Stanch handed in a petition from Virginia asking for his admission. Several congregations are in that region without a preacher, the nearest being one hundred and fifty miles from an ordained preacher. 5. Three committees were appointed : a. To read over the papers of the licensed candidates : Dr. Helmuth, Revs. Gering, Daniel Kurz and Schiifer. b. To read over the papers of the catechists : Rev. Wildbahn, Roller, Weinland, Jung. e. To examine the two candidates not yet received, and to look over some petitions from distant candidates : Dr. Kuntze, Revs. Schulze and Moller. 6. On motion of Dr. Kuntze that the article against Rev. Mr. Ernst, which had appeared some time ago in the Reading newspaper be refuted, it was resolved that the refutation printed some time afterward be re- garded as sufficient and be approved by the Ministerium. In the evening Catechist Jager preached. 266 DOCUMENTAEY HISTORY. May 29th, a.m. 7. The various reports of the committees were handed in, and with reference to the licensed candidates, it was Resolved, a. To renew Mr. Dill's license. b. That the President and Secretary be authorized to renew Mr. Espich's license, if they saw fit. c. Mr. Wichterman's license shall be renewed. d. Also Mr. Wiegand's license shall be renewed. 8. Concerning the absent candidates who formerly had licenses, ques- tions were asked : a. Whether Mr. Enderlein was still regarded as a licensed candi- date ? Answer : Yes. b. "Whether Mr. Meier is in Albania ? No. c. AVhether Mr. Liitge's license shall be renewed ? Yes, with the ad- monition from the President that he attend more dihgently and be careful in the performance of his ministerial duties. 9. After the reports in reference to the catechists were read, it was Resolved, a. Mr. Schmucker shall receive a full Ucense as licensed candidate in his former congregations, b. Mr. Jager likewise, c. Also Mr. Riitz. d. And Mr, Benz, with permission to serve a new congre- gation, the so-called Belman's Church, in such wise, however, that he shall remain under the supervision of the preacher in Lancaster, as before. 10. In reference to the new candidates, it was Resolved, a. That Mr. Ellisen receive a full license as licensed can- didate for the congregations in Obermilford, Obersaccon, Salzbury and Allentown. h. That Mr. Carl Stock shall receive a license as hcensed candidate, if he shows the President and Secretary a call from some congrega- tion. c. That Mr. Stauch receive a license as catechist in Redstone, Mor- gantown and Salem, under the supervision of the ordained preacher in Martinsburg. 11. A protocol of a special conference held in Virginia was read and listened to with pleasure. May 29th p.m., 12. The licenses of the licensed candidates and catechists were deliv- ered to tliem 13. The mandatorii (attorneys) of the Halle Orphan house distributed FORTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1793. 267 eighty-four Spanish dollars to the assembled pastors, so that each, and the absent Senior Kurz and Wilh. Kurz, received three dollars. 14. Finally the meeting was closed with prayer. In the evening Candidate Wiegand preached. All these proceedings are attested by Emanuel Schulze, President. Heinkich Muhlenberg, Secretary. FORTY-SEVENTH CONVEXTION. 1794. SYNODICAL JNIEETING. Held at Reading, Trinity Sunday, June 15, a.m. At 9 o'clock the preachers, together with the delegates from the various congregations went to the old church, and from there in procession to the new church to consecrate it. President Schulze, standing before the altar, proclaimed that the new church should be called Trinity Church, and consecrated it with a prayer. The consecration sermon was preached by Dr. Helmuth on II Cor. 6: 16. In the afternoon Dr. Muhlenberg preached on I Tim. 1 : 15. The evening sermon was in English. Monday, June 16th, a.m. At 9 o'clock there was another service, at which Pastor Schulze preached. At 11 o'clock the Synodical Meeting was opened in the church with prayer. The following ministers were present : 1. ordained preachers. Wilhelm Kurz, from Jonestown. Emanuel Schulze, from Tolpehocken. Henrich Helmuth, from Philadelphia. Friedrich Schmidt, from Philadelphia. Henrich Miihlenberg, from Lancaster. Jacob Buskirk, from Gwinnet and "VVhitpiin. Conrad Roller, from Alt Goshenhoppen. C. Friedrich Wildban, from Reading. Henrich Moller, from New Holland. Jacob Gering, from Yorktown. Daniel Lehman, from Misillum. Friedrich Ernst, from Hudson, in New York State. Daniel Sch niter, from Hanover. Valentin Melsheimer, from Hanover. Friedrich Weinland, from New Hanover. Friedrich Schiifer, from Germantown. Wilhelm Carpenter, from Culpepper, in Virginia. 268 FORTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1794. 269 2. LICENSED CANDIDATES. Anton Liitge, from Chamberstown. Casper Dill, on the Jordan. Christian Espig, from Suubury. Giinther Wiegand, from Tannytown, [Dannitown.] George Ellisen, from Ober Millford. Conrad Jiiger, from Williamstown. Georg Schmucker, from Quickel's Congregation. Peter Bentz, from Mountjoy. 3. CATECHI8T. Johann Stanch, from Redstone. DELEGATES WHO BROUGHT WRITTEN CREDENTIALS. From Philadelphia, Friedrich A, Miihlenberg and Henrich Kiimmerer. From Lancaster, Bernhard Hnbly, George Hoff, Philip Klein, Henrich Gross. From Reading, Peter Filbert, Michael Krauss. From New Hanover, Sebastian Reifschneider, Matthias Wartman. From Chamberstown, Michael Eberle. From Sunbury, Paul Baldy. Hereupon they proceeded'to the election of officers for this year ; by a majority of votes Pastor Schulze was elected President, aud Pastor Schmidt Secretary. The following ministers were absent : 1. EXCUSED. 2. UNEXCUSED. Christoph Kuntze from New York. Ludwig Voigt, from Peiksland. Joseph Wichterman. Christian Streit, from Winchester. Andr. Ki-ug, from Friedrichstadt. Daniel Kurtz, from Baltimore. August Ritz. David Jung, from Martinsburg. Paul Hinkel, from Shenandoah Co, The various communications were handed in, numbering 23. A letter from Dr. Kunze was read, in which he excused his absence and gave an account of the pastors in New York State. A letter from Candidate Wichterman was read. In it he reports that after the close of the Synodical Meeting he had indeed gone to Fried- richstown, but was not well received there, and now is serving East Camp and other congregations in New York State, Closed with prayer. June IGth, r.M. At 3 o'clock they began with prayer. A writing from Bernhard Gilbert, a member of the congregation in 270 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. New Hanover, was read, in which various complaints are made against Pastor Weiuland. Among other matters, Beruhard Gilbert complains, that it is Pastor Weiulaud's fault that he was excluded from the Church Council. Pastor Weiuland orally defended himself against these com- plaints, and this occupied the greater part of the afternoon. Finally it was resolved that Pastor Geriug, Pastor Melsheimer and ^Ir. Kiim- merer be a committee to investigate these complaints and report on them. Closed with prayer. In the evening Mr. Dill preached. Tuesday, June 17th, a.m. After prayer, a letter from Adam Arnold in Hagerstown was read, in which he wished that ways and means might be found to publish some melodies to hymns. Thereupon it was Remlved, That Dr. Helmuth, F. A. Miihlenberg, Esq., and Mr. Moller, of Philadelphia, be a committee to publish in German papers a plan for the publication of a tune-book, in order that other preachers who have experience in such work may express their opinions as to how such a useful book is to be best arranged ; and that then the said committee proceed with the publication. A letter from Candidate Ritz was read, in which he excuses his absence, and desires to be ti-ansferred to other congregations. As several congregations in Penn's Valley petitioned for a pastor, it was Resolved, That IVIr. Ritz might visit these congregations, and if he found the circumstances satisfactory, might accept and serve them. [Pastor Gering offered to inform Mr. Ritz, and Candidate Espig the congregations.] The following reports of the baptized, etc., in 1793 were handed in : Communi- Pastors. Mr. Helmuth and f " Schmidt " Muhlenberg, Moller, ^ Among the 805 deceased are (541 \\\\o died of the yellow or pestilential fever, which in August, September, October and November, 1793, carried oil" 5000 per- sons in and about Philadelphia. Congregations. Baptized. Conflrmcd. cants. Died. •j Philadelphia . 508 116 1075 805' Lancaster . . 170 70 695 58 ' Newholland . 53 32 — 4 Bergstrasse . . . 16 — — 6 Modekrick . . 16 21 — 6 Allegany. . . 18 22 — 3 Manheim . . 7 27 — — ^ Strasburg . . 15 15 — — FORTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1794. 271 Communi- Pastors. Congregations. Baptized. Confirmed. cants. Died. Mr . RoUer, Altgoshenhoppen 87 — 473 51 Lehman, Richmond ... 186 70 1140 36 Carpenter, Culpepper . . .116 5 211 12 Krug. Fried richstadt . 174 61 472 42 Schiifer, Germantown . . 65 20 253 35 Liitge, Chambersburg . 64 32 64 39 Dill, Jordan .... 55 45 745 24 Espig, Sunbury .... 63 20 306 6 Wiegand, Danny town . .181 92 894 30 Ellisen, Ober Milford . . 143 120 1374 44 Jager, Williamstown . .174 107 701 19 Sclimucker, Quickel's Church, 80 24 152 16 Bentz, Mount Joy ... 70 — 252 — Stanch, Redstone . . .148 — — 7 Weinland, 1 New Hanover . 45 ( Providence ... 35 43 253 106 12 6 Wildban, Reading .... 86 42 413 21 Schulze, Tulpehocken . . 132 72 507 47 The committee appointed to investigate the charges brought against Pastor Weinland, handed in its opinion, which was read and discussed : whereupon the Synod reached the following decision : The Synodical Meeting considers the complaints against Pastor Weinland not suf-. ficiently substantiated, and will therefore, in epite of these charges, regard him as a worthy member. At the request of the Ministerium, Pastor Weinland and Bernhard Gilbert were reconciled, and promised, before God and the assembly, in future to mention nothing of that which had happened between them. But as Bernhard Gilbert also complained that he was unjustly excluded from the Church Council, it was — Resolved, That Pastor Friedrich Schmidt, Pastor Friedrich Ernst, Friedrich August Muhlenberg, Esq., and Mr. Henrich Kammerer be a committee to investisrate whether the removal of Bernhard Gilbert from the office of trustee in the congregation at New Hanover was in accord- ance with the Constitution of said congregation. Resolved, as a By-Law to the Ministerial Order : " If no delegate accompanies a preacher to the Synodical Meeting, the Church Council of such congregation shall report in writing the reasons why the congregation has not sent any ;" and that each preacher announce this resolution in his congregations before each annual Synodical Meeting. 272 DOCmiENTARY HISTORY. Finally, it was decided by ballot, that the next annual Synodical Meeting shall bo held at Philadelphia, on Trinity Sunday, Closed with prayer. In the evening Mr. EUisen preached. Emanuel Schulze, P. t. President. JOHANN FrIEDRICH ScHMIDT, P. t. Secretarj. miin^isterial meeting. Held at Readixo, June 18, 1794. Forenoon. After prayer, the licensed candidates and catechists handed in their papers, viz. : Mr. Liitge : his diary, two sermons, his license ; IMr. Dill : his license ; Mr. Espig : his diary, one sermon, his license ; jMr. AViegaud : his license ; Mr. Ellisen : his diary, two sermons, his license ; Mr. Jiiger : diary, two sermons, his license ; Mr. Schmucker : diary, two sermons, his license ; Mr. Bentz : one sermon, his license ; and Mr. Stauch : two sermons, his license. A call from New Goshenhoppen, Trumbauer's and Schiitzen's churches, was read. They desire Mr. Gaisenhains [Geissenhainer] as their pastor, and petition for the consent of the Ministerium. A call from Griinwitsch [Greenwich], Ziegelkirche and New Allmiin- gel for Mr. Obenhausen was read. Also a call from Lebanon, Berg- kirche, Campelsstadt and Ziegelkirche for Mr. Lochman. Also a call from Bermudian, Kessler's and Langsdorf s churches for Mr. Rothraff. A call from Great Cove, in Bedford County, for Jos. Stock. A call from Newberry Township, in York County, for George Graber. A call from Leukensthal [Lykeu's Valley] for Johann Grob. A petition from the congregations of the Frieden's church, St. Peter's church, St. Daniel's church, and Kriigerstown, in Friedrich and Wash- ington County, in Maryland, was read, in which they request that they and their preacher Ilehl be received into the INIinisterium. After the various papers were duly considered, it was Resolved, That the candidates Gaisenhains, Obenhausen and Ijoch- man be orally examined by the ]\Iiuisterium this afternoon from 3 to FORTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1794. 273 3:30 ; and that Johann Rotbraff, George Graber and Jobann Grob be similarly examined from 4 to 4:30 P.M. Closed with prayer. "Wednesday, June 18, 1794, p.m. Opened with prajer. After the various candidates had been duly examined, the following appointments were made by the Ministerium : That Friedrich Wilhelm Gaisenhains receive a full license as licensed candidate for the congregations in New Goshenhoppen, at Trumbauer's and at Schiitzen's. LikeAvise Johann Friedrich Obenhausen, for the congregations in Greenwich, the Ziegelkirche and in Kew Allmangel. Also, George Lochman for the congregations in Lebanon, Campels- stadt, the Bergkirche and the Ziegelkirche. That Johannes Rotbraff receive a license as catechist for the congre- gations in Bermudiau, Kessler's and Langsdorf s congregations, and that he be under the supervision of the pastor at Yorktown. That Graber and Grob cannot be received, because of their insuffi- cient training, but that Dr. Helmuth and Dr. Muhlenberg inform them that they would not be forbidden to hold devotional meetings, but that they must be diligent and make better progress in theology That we could have nothing to do with Messrs. Hehl and Stock. Letters from Hegerstown and the congregations united with it were read, in which they desire George Schmucker as their pastor. Thereupon it was Resolved, to renew the licenses of the licensed can- didates Liitge, Dill, Espig, Wiegand, Ellisen, Jager, Schmucker, Ritz, and Bentz for one year, to extend Schmucker's to Hegerstown, Funks- town and Canegedschick [Canogcoscheague], and to issue that of Espig for Sunbury, Pennshill and Buffloe, in Northumberland. Resolved, That on account of the great distance from an ordained preacher, Catechist Stanch be granted a full license, but that it extend only over Redstone and other congregations near it on the frontier. Resolved, as a By-Law: "That those preachers who have supervision over catechists inform them that, to save expense and for other reasons, they need not personally appear at the Synodical and Ministerial Meet- ings, but can send their papers through those under whose care they are," The licenses were then prepared ; the President read to the licensed candidates and catechists a statement of their duties, and handed them their licenses. The surplus of the interest of the Rodelheim legacy, £19, 7s , 6d., was divided among the present pastors and other needy persons. 18 274 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Finally, all the pastors bowed their knees before God, and com- mended themselves and their congregations to the care and mercy of their great Shepherd, Jesus Christ. In the evening Mr. Lehman preached. Emanuel Schulzb) P. t. President. JOHANN FkIEDRICH ScHMIDT, P. t. Secretary. FOKTY-EIQHTH CONVENTION. 1795- (Sunday, May 31st, 1795) SYNODICAL MEETING. 'Held at Philadelphia, May 31, 1795, it being the Festival op THE Trinity. Since Zion's Church in Philadelphia was burnt down on Decern, ber 26, 1794 and the honorable Church Council of the Evangelical Reformed congregations in a fraternal spirit had given us the use of their church during the days of the meeting, services were to-day held in St. Michael's and in the Reformed Church in the morning, afternoon and evening. In the Reformed Church Mr. Schulze, Mr. Lehman, Mr. Gaisenhainer preached ; in St. Michael's, Mr. Muhlenberg, Mr. Wie- gand and Mr. Schiifer. Monday, June 1st, forenoon. At 9 o'clock the pastors and delegates assembled in St. Michael's Church and the Synodical Meeting was opened with prayer. The pastors present were : 1. Ordained Preachers: Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken. Henrich Helmuth, from Philadelphia. Friedrich Schmidt, from Philadelphia. Henrich Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. Valentin Melzheimer, from Hanover, in York County. Friedrich Schafer, from Germantown. Daniel Lehman, from Misillum. Jacob Buskirk, from Macunshy. Conrad Roller, from Old Goshenhoppen. Andreas Krug, from Friedrichstadt. Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. Friedrich Wildbahn, from Reading. 2. Licensed Candidates. Giinther "Wiegand, from Taneytown. Conrad Jiiger, from Williams Township. 275 276 DOCUMENTAEY HISTORY. George Ellisen, from Upper Milford. Fr. AVilh. Gaisenhainer, from New Goshenhoppen. Friedrich Obenhausen, from Greenwich. George Lochman, from Lebanon. Christian Espig, from Sunbury. 3. Catechist. Johannes Rothraff, from Bermudian. Delegates Who Brought Written Credentials: From Philadelphia : Peter Lex and Balthasar Em rich. From Lancaster : Michael Moser. From Germantown : George Griifle. From Williams Township : Henrich Haupt. From Lebanon : Christoph, Uhler. From Baltimore : Carl Schwartz. As officers were elected : Doctor Helmuth, President, and Pastor Schmidt, Secretary. The following pastors were absent : 1. Excused. 2. Without Excuse. Christoph. Kunze. Wilhelm Kurz. Henrich Moller. Ludwig Voigt. Paul Hinkel. Daniel Schroter. Christian Streit. Friedrich Ernst. David Jung. Friedrich Weinland. Jacob Gering. Wilhelm Carpenter. Caspar Dill. A. Ulrich Liitge. George Schmuckcr. Johann Stauch. Peter Bentz. The various papers, twenty-seven in number, were handed in. A letter from Doctor Kunze was read, in which he excuses his ab- sence, and reports that the Ministerium in New York State has or- dained Candidate Wichterman. Rev. Mr. Moller excuses his absence and reports that he has ac- cepted a call to Harrisburg and the congregations united with it. Rev. Mr. Hinkel reported that at present he resides in Augusta County, in Virginia. Pastors Streit and Jung reported that a District Meeting in Virginia granted tlie licensed candidate Mau a license for Kentucky and re- quested that the IMinisteriura grant the District IMeeting permission to ordain the said IMr. Mau, for which ordination Mr, Mau himself also petitioned in writing. FORTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION, 1795. 277 The Protocol of last year's Synodical Meeting -was read and signed. The reports of the baptized, etc., are as follows ; Mr. Schulze, " Helmuth, | " Schmidt, j " Muhlenberg, " Melsheimer, " Schiifer, " Lehman, " Buskirk, " Krug, « Wildbahn, " Wiegand, " Jager, Tulpehocken Atolloli . . Schiiferstadt Werwick . Heidelberg Wenrichs . Rieds . . . Philadelphia Lancaster . Hanover Codorus . . Germany . Opossum Cr. Germantown Barnhill Misillum, etc Macunshy . Drockenland Nazareth Gwynnet Whitpain . Upper Dublin Fried rich town, etc Reading . . Downeytown Winter's Church Thomas Creek Jacobs' Church Bermudian Zion's Church William's Township Greenwich . . Saccum . . . Allen Township Com- Bap- Con- muni- De- tized. flrm'd cants. ceas'd. 61 48 258 — 53 41 192 — 29 — 113 — 31 26 103 U53 26 — 189 — 21 16 62 — 7 — 27 — 449 91 1124 211 158 71 626 40 167 15 783 49 72 19 133 33 150 91 1227 31 189 25 300 29 74 47 321 27 120 47 675 19 94 31 340 15 * In all congregations. 278 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Mr. Ellisen, Upper Milford Upper Saccum Salzburg . . Allentown . . Com- Bai>- Con- muni- De- tized. flrm'd. cants ceas'd. 113 57 968 63 New Goslienhoppen . . 1 " Gaieenliainer, Trumbauer's Church .1 67 18 302 10 " Eoller, Schiitzen's Church Old Goshenhoppen Indianfield . . . Tohecke • • J Greenwich . Obenhausen, "Weissenburg Albania . . 67 97 433 16 80 18 459 19 Lochman, Rothraff, Espig, Lebanon . . . Bergkirche . . Ziegelkirche . . Campelstown Bindnagel's . . Carlisle .... Langsdorf . . . Christ Church . Bermudian . . Schuster's Church Steltzen's . . . Sunbury . . . Buffalo .... Arensburg . . . Bruns Valley Penn'sHill . . Bieber Church . Mahanai . . . 43 87 243 18 19 — 85 8 5 — 51 1 19 — 23 3 30 — 85 2 93 62 — 15 96 87 503 21 The decision concerning the excusing of congregations which send no delegates to the Sy nodical Meeting was again read, to be reported to the congregations. The report of the committee, referring to the difficulties between Pastor Weiidand and Mr. Gilbert in New Hanover, was read. Testimonials of satisfaction with their respective pastors from the FORTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION, 1795. 279 congregations of Messrs. Wiegand, Gaisenhainer, Jiiger, etc, were read. The congregation in Manheim reported that owing to the removal of Pastor Moller it was without a preacher, and petitions for another pastor. Hereupon it was Resolved, That the congregation apply to the nearest preacher, and that IVIr. Muhlenberg inform them of this action Concerning the schools in the United Congregations the following report was made : Mr. Krug reported, that in Friedrichstadt, there was a German school with 40 to 50 children, and in his country congregations several smaller schools ; but also complains that many parents prefer to send their children to English schools. INIr. Schulz reported, that in his congregations there were several German schools, and that the tendency towards English was not very strong. Mr. Helmuth and Schmidt reported, in Philadelphia there are three main schools, namely, one for boys, one for girls, and one for poor chil- dren, they have three teachers with about 250 children ; besides these there are some smaller German schools. The preference for English is very strong. Mr. Muhlenberg reports, that Lancaster has one main school, with 40 to 50 children, and more. There are also some smaller schools. Mr. Melsheimer has only one German school in his congregations because the tendency towards English is very strong. In Mr. Schiifer's congregations, the school at Germantown is at pres. ent vacant ; but that at Barren Hill is in operation. Mr. Lehman has eight schools in his congregations, and several in common with the Reformed. In Mr. Buskirk's congregations there are several schools, but most of them are only kept up in winter. In one of his congregations a school- master is desired, who can play the organ. Mr. Roller's congregations have two school-houses, but at present no teacher; would like to have a man who can play the organ. Mr. Jiiger's congregation in Jersey has no German schools, but in the Pennsylvania congregations there are some. Mr. Gaisenhainer's congregation in New Goshenhoppen has a strong school ; but in both the other congregations there are none. Mr. Lochmann has a fine school in Lebanon, as also at the Berg- kirche ; several smaller schools and one union school. Mr Espig's congregations, in part, have good schools ; they desire to have a school-teacher. 280 DOCUMENTARY^ HISTORY. Finally, at the end of the Synodical Meeting, it was decided by ballot, that the next annual Synodical Meeting shall be held at Yorktown, on Trinity Sunday, 1796. Closed with prayer and singing. J. Heinr. Chr. Helmuth, P. t. President. J. Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. Secretary. MINISTERIAL MEETING, Held at Philadelhia, June 2d, 1795. After prayer, the licensed candidates and catechists handed in their licenses and sermons, which were given to the committees appointed to examine them, and report on them. A lengthy Latin communication from Dr. Kierulf was read. He reports that he was banished from Sweden, because he defended the freedom of the land against tyranny, and asks to be admitted into the Ministerium. But as he was not present, the Ministerium reached no decision. A writing from Friedrich Wilhelm Lang, a candidate of theology, was read. He reports that he is serving several congregations in Bed- ford County, Pennsylvania, and asks to be received into the Ministerium. Mr. Muhlenberg and Mr. Kurz were appointed to examine him briefly. Testimonials from Mr. Quitman, who was stationed as Lutheran preacher in the Dutch Island Cura^oa for twelve years, were read, and thereupon Re-^olvech that Mr. Helmuth might offer him the vacant con- gregations in Springfield and at Tohick. After the reports of the various committees were duly considered, the Ministerium reached the following decisions : 1. That the licenses of the following licensed candidates be renewed for one year, viz. : INIr. Espig, for Sunbury, Buffalo, Pcnn's Hill, Riter Church, Penn's Valley, Arensburg and Malianai ; ^Ir. Wicgand, for his former congre- gations ; Mr. Dill, for his former congregations ; Mr. Samuel Mace, for Lexington, the Falls, Danville, and Limestone in Kentucky ; ^Ir. Jiiger, as before ; Mr. Schmucker, as before; Mr. Ellisen, as before, and for Steincr's Church ; Mr. Benz, as before ; Mr. Gaisenhainer, as before ; Mr. Obenhausen, as before ; Mr. Lochman, as before. FORTY-EIGHTH CONVENTION, 1795. 281 2 That the following gentlemen be appointed licensed candidates, viz. : Mr. Rothraff, for Griinkiistel [Greencastle], Jacob's Church, Martin's Church, Bard's [Beard's] Church, and Mercersburg ; Mr. Lang, for Berlin, Peintritsch, Barous, Miillers, Quiertown, Castelmau's River, Cumberland, Upper and Lower Millkriek. 3. The following were appointed catechists : Mr. Georg Graber, for Freyen Church, in Windsor Township, for Freyen Church, in Eschenfort [added in pencil by Dr. B- M. Schmucker : Chaunceford] Township and Sattler's Church. Mr. Johann Grob, for Dover, Schuster's, Stelze, Kreischer and Lower Bermudian, under supervision of Pastor Melsheimer. In reference to Johann Herbst, whom some congregations desire to have appointed as pastor, it was resolved, that the Ministerium does not yet consider him qualified ; he was advised to study diligently, and again report at the next INIinisterial Meeting. In reference to Mr. Hehl, who would like to become a member of the Ministerium, the IMinisterium abides by the resolution of last year. The committee, which had received the sermons of the licensed can- didates for examination, desired that the following points be presented to the candidates : 1. That in the future they should hand in their outlines, as they were accustomed to preach their sermons before their congregations. 2. That some of them might be admonished to aim more at edifica- tion and popularity than at oratorial art, for if they preach sermons like the outlines presented, their congregations are to be sincerely pitied. 3. That those gentlemen, who handed in no outlines, be severely cen- sured. 4. That those pastors who clothe themselves unbecomingly, be earn- estly admonished to avoid such offence. The Ministerium approved the points reported, and resolved that the President should notify the persons concerned. The President read to the licensed candidates and catechists a state- ment of their duties, and handed them their licenses. The surplus of the Rodelheim interest was distributed to the pastors present — £23, 12, 6. Closed with prayer. JoH. Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. Secretary. FORTY-NINTH CONVENTION. 1796. (Sunday, May 22d.) SYNODICAL MEETING Held in Yorktown, May 23 and 24, Anno Domini, 1796. In the forenoon Mr. Helmuth preached in the Lutheran, and Mr. Muhlenberg in the Reformed church ; in the afternoon Pastor Schmidt preached, and in the evening Mr. Lochman. Monday, May 23d, a.m. At 9 o'clock the pastors and delegates assembled, and the Synod was opened with prayer. The following pastors were present : 1. Ordained Preachers. Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken. Heinrich Helmuth, T -r^, ., , , , . Friedrich Schmidt, j from Philadelphia. Heinrich Miihleuberg, from Lancaster. Friedrich Wildbahn, from Reading. Christian Streit, from Millerstown, in Virginia. Jacob Goring, from Yorktown. Daniel Schroter, from Hanover, in York County. Heinrich Moller, from Harrisburg. Valentin Melsheimer, from Hanover. Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore, in Maryland. David Jung, from Martinsburg, in Virginia. Wilhelm Carpenter, from Culpepper, in Virginia. Paul Hinkel, from Stentown [Stanton], in Virginia. 2. Licensed Candidates. Conrad Jiiger, from Williams Township. Georg Schmucker, from Hiigerstown, in ]\Iaryland. Peter Benz, from Mount Joy. Fr. Wilh. Gaisenhains, from New Goschenhoppen. 282 FOETY-NINTH CONVENTION, 1796. 283 Friedricli Obenhauseu, from Allemangel [Allemingao]. Georg Lochman, from Lebanon. Johann Stauch, from Redstone. Johann Rothrauff, from Griinkastel. Carl Stock, from Picket Mountain [Peaked Mountain], in Virginia. Friedricli Lang, from Berlin. 3. Catechists. Georg Graber, from "Windsor, York County. Johann Grob, from Holzschwamp, York County. 4. Delegates with Written Credentials. From Tulpebocken Michael Ley. T^T .1 1 1 1 • f Peter Lex. " Philadelphia i ^ t^ i ^ (. Georg Ivrebs. " Lancaster Michael Moser. " Reading Johann Phillipi. " Yorktown Johann Hay. " Harrisburg Benjamin Kurz. " Hanover Georg Merker. " Hagerstown .' Christian Hakky. " Lebanon Conrad Reinohl. " Griinkastel Frederick Beyer. " Berlin Adam Neu. Officers were elected as follows : Doctor Helmuth, President, and Pastor Schmidt, Secretary. The following pastors were absent ; 1. With Excuse. 2. Without Excuse. Wilhelm Kurz, Ludwig Voigt, Christoph Kunze, Jacob Buskerk, Daniel Lehman, Friederich Weinland, Frederick Schaefer. Caspar Dill, Christian Espig, Georg Ellisen. The various papers were handed in, and the Protocol of the last Synodical Meeting was read. A member stated to the meeting that the design of the Assembly of this State, to establish free schools throughout the State would very mucli injure our German schools, especially in regard to the religion 284 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. taught in them, and might very likely destroy them. It was there- fore Resolved, That Messrs. Helmuth, Muhlenberg and Goring, together with the delegates from their congregations, be a committee to consider the matter, and draft a petition with reference to this matter, which could be handed to the Assembly. A report of a District INIeeting in Virginia was read. It contains many resolutions and transactions, intended to promote the prosperity of the congregations in Virginia. Closed with prayer. Monday, May 23d, p.m. Prayer was offered. Letters from various congregations were read, which declare their satisfaction with their respective [preachers]. A letter from the congregation in Reading was read. They report that their former preacher, Mr. Wildbahn, has resigned, and request the Ministerium to help them to get another faithful pastor. The delegate was advised that he might confer with several of the preachers who desire a change, or that the congregation might apply to any preacher in the INIinistcrium. The congregations in Modenkrik [Muddy Creek], Mount Joy and Manheim, in Lancaster County, make written request that Mr. Benz be permitted to administer the means of grace to them. After con- sidering the circumstances, it was granted for one year. Middletown and several other congregations near Friedrichtown, in Maryland, ask for Mr. Graber as their preacher. It was referred to the Ministerial Meeting. Various congregations now vacant : e. g., Winchester, in Virginia ; Griinsburg, Herold's, Broschkrick and Ridge, which the late INIr. Liitge served ; Chambersburg, Shippensburg, Scherers, and Fallspring ; Dany- town, in Maryland ; Pennsburg, Scherraan's Valley, in Cumberland County ; and others petition for preachers. As in most cases ministers are concerned who are not yet ordained, it waa referred to the Minis- terial Meeting, The congregation in Shepherdstown reports that they are engaged in building a church, and petition for a contribution from the United Congregations. Thereupon it was Resolved, That they be permitted to send collectors to the various congregations. The following is the report made by the preachers of the number of the baptized, confirmed, communicants and deceased in their resiiective congregations in the year 1795 : FORTY-NINTH CONVENTION, 1796. 285 Preachers. Baptized. Mr. Schultze 213 " Helmuth and Schmidt .... 416 " Muhlenberg 157 '• Wildbahn , . 96 " Goring 98 " SchrGter 186 " Moller 59 " Carpenter 133 " Jung 96 " Lehman 187 " Jager 114 " Schmucker 154 " Bentz 100 " Gaisenhains 91 " Obenhausen 78 " Lochman 130 " Stauch 163 " Rothrauff 188 " Lang 187 « Stock 32 " Graber 53 " Grob 94 Closed with prayer. Tuesday, May 24th, a.m. Opened with prayer. The preachers gave a report of the condition of the schools in their congregations, as follows : In Mr. Schulze's congregations the schools are still in the condition they were last year. Philadelphia has four main schools, and earnest efforts are being made to improve them. Lancaster [school] numbers 40 to 80, and German and English are taught. Reading is still as before, numbering 60 to 70 children. Yorktown is very strong, and German and English are taught in the school. Mr. Schroter's congre- gations have four German, and one in which German and English are taught. Harrisburg numbers 30 pupils, and is German and English. McCallister has two English, and in the country there are several Ger- man schools. Baltimore has no German school. Martinsburg and Schippensbui'g have each one school. In Mr. Carpenter's congrega- tions there are three smaU German schools. In Mr. Jiiger's congrega- Commuiii nfirmed. cants. Deceased. 82 752 46 93 1051 367 75 610 47 59 355 22 123 — — 50 728 18 80 154 24 32 155 9 60 212 26 76 1187 31 — 415 20 48 246 24 53 279 — 61 658 14 29 510 23 62 478 28 62 226 19 92 219 15 235 692 24 15 140 6 17 40 6 — — . 13 286 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY. tions there are two regular schools [in fair condition ?]. Hagerstown has one English and one German school, so also Funkstown. In Mr. Bentz's congregations there are no German schools. In Goshenhoppen the school is constantly improving. Lebanon has one school with forty scholars ; others have some smaller schools [Ueberschulen]. In Mr. Stock's there are English and German schools. In Mr. Lang's, two German and one English and German. In ^Ir. Stanch 's, two. In j\Ir. Rothrauff's, three German winter schools. In Mr. Grilber's, two regular schools. In Mr. Grob's, two winter-schools. The committee appointed handed in a petition addressed to the General Assembly, concerning schools in Pennsylvania ; it was read, considered, approved, and signed by the preachers and delegates. Resolved, That 150 copies be printed, and distributed among the various congregations to be signed. At the close of the Synodical j\Ieeting it was decided, by ballot, that the next annual Sjmodical Meeting should be held at Baltimore on the Festival of the Trinity. Finally prayer was offered and a hymn sung. J. Heinr. Ch. Helmuth, P. t. President. JoH. Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. Secretary. MINISTERIAL MEETING At Yorktown, May 24Tn. , Morning Session. Opened with prayer. A certificate of ordination and several testimonials of a Lutheran preacher from Germany, Mr. August Heinrich Schmidt, were read. The said preacher requests to be received into the Ministerium. There- upon it Avas Resolved, That the Ministerium, after reading the favorable testi- monials, recognize ]\Ir. Schmidt as an ordained preacher, but does not think it possible to receive him as a member of the Ministerium, because it is contrary to the custom of the Ministerium to receive any preacher into its association before it becomes evident that his conduct agrees with his testimonials from abroad. Closed with prayer. FORTY-NINTH CONVENTION, 1796. 287 Afternoon Session. After prayer, various petitions of congregations in Pennsylvania and Virginia were read, in Avhicli they request that certain candidates may be examined by the Ministcrium, and given to them as pastors. These candidates are Mr. Johann Folz, Adolph Spindler, Johann Herbst, and Johann Michael Steck. Pastor Schulze desired that his son, Johann Andreas Schulze/ might be examined at the same time. Hereupon the candidates and catechists handed in their writings and licenses, and the JNIinisterium divided itself into committees to examine the candidates, and look over the sermons and diaries they had handed in. It was resolved that Mr. Muhlenberg should deliver a memorial address in honor of the deceased Pastor Krug in Friedrichstown, and that Messrs. Goring and Melsheimer shall accompany him thither. After the various committees had handed in their reports, the Minis- tcrium passed the following resolutions : 1. That the licenses of the licensed candidates be renewed. 2. That Mr. Johann Andreas Schulze receive a full license, and assist his [father] in his congregations. 3. That Mr. Georg Graber receive a full license for Middletown, Geber's church, Ringert's, Schauman'S; Scherpsberg, in Maryland, and Loudon in Virginia. 4. That Mr. Johann Grob receive a full license for Dover, Paradise, Lower Bermudian, Schuster's, Fissel's, and Stelzen's church. 5. That Mr. Georg Schmucker serve Hagerstown, Funkstown, Can- egoschick and Williamsburg. 6. That Mr. Peter Bentz, besides his former congregations, also serve Manheim and Modekrik. 7. That Mr. Johann Folz, as licensed candidate, serve St. Peter's church, Roder's church, at Powelsford, and Brook's Cape, in Virginia. 8. That Mr. Adolph Spindler, as licensed candidate, serve St. John's church. Hone meeting house and Frieden's church, in Virginia. 9. That Mr. Johann Michael Steck, as licensed candidate, serve Greeusburg, Herold's, Bruschkrik, Ridge, at Jacobskrik and at Alle- gany, iu Westmoreland County. 10. That Mr. Johann Herbst serve Schierman's Valley, Great Spring, Kennokoqui, Trendel's church, Frieden's church, in Rothland and Car- lisle, in Pennsylvania. ^ [Afterwards Governor of Pennsylvania, 1823-29.] 288 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. After the various certificates for the places mentioned had been pre- pared, the President read to the licensed candidates a statement of their duties, and gave them their licenses. The mandatorii [attorneys] of Director Schulze of the Orphan House, in Halle, distributed to- the preachers present, and the widow of Mr. Liitge, 30£ Ss. 9d, of the interest of the Rodelheim legacy. Closed with prayer and the singing of a hymn. JoH. Friedrich Schmidt. P. t. Secretary. FIFTIETH CONVENTION. 1797. (Sunday, June 11th.) ACTS OF THE SYNODICAL MEETING. Held at Baltimore, June 11, 12, 13 and 14, Anno Domini, 1797. In the forenoon Dr. Helmuth preached in the Lutheran Church, Mr. Melsheimer in the Reformed Church, and Jacob Goering in Otterbein's. In the afternoon, Mr. Lochmann in the Lutheran Church, Mr. Jung in the Reformed, and Mr. Schmucker in Otterbein's. In the evening, Dr. Muhlenberg in the Lutheran Church. The services were well attended, and it is to be hoped that the addresses have not remained without blessing. It was a pleasure to observe the spirit of charity between the members of the various denominations. Monday, June 12th, a.m. At nine o'clock the pastors and their delegates assembled in the church, and the Synod was opened with prayer. L The ordained preachers present were : Mr. J. C. Henrich Helmuth, Th.D., from Philadelphia. " Heinrich Muhlenberg, T.D., from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. " Daniel Kurtz, P. L. [Pastor loci.] " C. Friedrich Wildbahn, from Friedrickstown, Maryland. " Valentin Melsheimer, from Hanover, Pennsylvania. *' F. David Schaeffer, from Germantown, Pennsylvania. " Daniel Schroder, from Hanover, Pennsylvania. " David Jung, from Martinsburg, Virginia. " Jacob Goering, from Yorktown, Pennsylvania. 2. The Licensed candidates present were : Mr. Joh. Georg Schmucker, from Hagerstown, Maryland. " George Lochmann, from Lebanon, Pennsylvania. " Johannes Stauch, from Redstone, Pennsylvania. " Johannes Rothrauff, from Greencastle, Pennsylvania. " Georg Graber, from Middletown, Maryland. 19 289 290 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Mr. Johannes Grob, from Dover, Pennsylvania. " Adoli)h Spindler, from Augusta County, Virginia. " Johannes Herbst, from Sherman's Valley, Pennsylvania. 3. Delegates, with credentials, were present — 1. From Philadelphia, Mr. Georg Krebs. 2. " Hagerstown, Mr. Jacob Kurtz. 3. " Lebanon, Mr Hoffmann. 4. " Davids, Zions, . 5. " Redstone, . 6. " Baltimore, Mr. Englehardt Yaiser. 7. " Middletown, in Maryland, . 8. " Dover and other congregations, ]\Ir. Georg Eiihl. 9. " Hanover, Mr. . 4. Absent ordained preachers, who sent letters of excuse : Mr. "NVillielm Kurtz, Jonestown, Pennsylvania. Joli. Friedrich Schmidt, Philadelphia. Joh. Christoph Kunze, New York. Heinrich MoUer, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, William Carpenter, Culpepper, Virginia. Paul Hinckel, Shenandoah, Virginia. 5. Absent licensed candidates, who excused themselves in writing : Mr. Joh. Conrad Jiiger, Williams Township, Pennsylvania. " Peter Bens, Cocalico, Pennsylvania. " F. Wilhelm Geisenheiner, New Goshenhoppen, Pennsylvania. " F. Wilhelm Lange, Berlin, Pennsylvania. " Carl Stock, Picket Mountain, Virginia. " Joh, Michael Steck, Greensburg, Pennsylvania. The election of officers was held. Doctor Helmuth was chosen Pres- dent, and Jacob Goering, Secretary. The various writings which had been received were handed in, and the Protocol of the last Synodical Meeting was read. The congregation in Hagerstown made written request, that the next Synodical Meeting be held there. The congregation in Lebanon likewise made request, that the next Synod be held there. Resolved, That these requests be deferred to the close of the Synodical Meeting, because the choice of a place is then made. A congregation in Upper Bermudian, in York County, petitioned in FIFTIETH CONVENTION, 1797. 291 writing and also orally througli a delegate, that it might be served by- Mr. Grob. The petition was granted. From Taneytown, in Maryland, and several congregations united with it, delegates (and letters) were present, asking for a preacher. Written answer was given them, that they might apply to any preacher in the Ministerium, who in their opinion would suit them, and accept their call. New Holland, in Lancaster County, wrote for a preacher. The Synod resolved, that Mr. Jung pay a visit there. The congregations at Falling Spring and Scherer's, in Franklin County, made written request to be served by Mr. Kothrauff. Their request was granted. From Jonestown a letter was handed in, which described the con- dition of the congregation, and contained a petition that the congrega- tion might be served by Mr. Lochmann. Mr. Wilhelm Kurtz, who resides in this congregation and apparently has some friends in it, also wrote, and asked for a committee of preachers to investigate the dissen- sion existing between him and some members of the congregation. The Synod commissioned Doctor Muhlenberg to write to both parties, and enjoin upon them, that Mr. Kurtz be permitted to preach in the church until the next Synodical Meeting, at which (because it will be held near Jonestown), the request made by both parties shall be investigated, and if possible adjusted. A congregational committee in Frederickstown, Maryland, made writ- ten request that the congregation at that place might be served by Mr. Wildbahn. This request was granted in a letter sent to the committee by the Synod. The congregation at Reading made written application for a preacher. Resolved, That INIr. Jung also pay a visit there. The congregation was informed of this resolution by letter of the Synod. The reports concerning the German schools were handed in. Mr. Jung reported, that at present there was a good school-teacher at Mar- tinsburg. Mr. Schaeffer, that the congregation at Germantowu has no teacher at present. J. Goering, that in Yorktown a new school-teacher was received, and it is at present still unknown how it will work. Mr. Schroter, that four schools are at present being kept in his congrega- tions. Mr. Melsheimer, that three German schools are being kept in his congregations. Mr. Kurtz, that his congregation in Baltimore possesses one German and one English school. Mr. Schmucker, that there are four schools in his congregations. I\Ir. Lochmann, that there are two schools in his congregations. IMr. Stanch reports three puramer and five winter schools. Mr. Rothrauff, that in his congregations two 292 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. ■winter schools are kept. Mr. Griiber, that in his congregations tliree German schools are kept. Mr. Grob, that in his congregations there are three German schools. Mr. Spindler reports three schools in his congregations. Mr. Herbst, that in his congregations four winter schools are kept. The others were still in the same condition as last year. The following reports of the number of baptized, confirmed, com- municants and deceased, were given by the pastors. Bap- Con- Commu- De- tized. firmed. nicants. ceased. Mr. Miihlenberg, 155 65 704 45 " mmer 26 — 29 10 " Jung, 80 — 142 34 " Schroeter, 172 148 994 14 " Caqienter, * . . 81 14 196 8 « Schmucker, 154 17 234 45 " Lochmann, 125 37 598 21 " Stanch, 157 62 307 15 " SchaefFer, 117 26 -258 48 « RothrauflF, 186 59 236 19 « Griiber, 138 51 344 16 « Grob, 145 83 413 14 " Spindler, 49 — 115 10 " Herbst, 131 54 185 14 " Geisenheiner, 93 68 503 20 " Lange, 134 16 159 10 " Kurtz, 125 28 251 44 " Hinkel, 113 — — 8 " Schulze, 198 65 683 43 The morning session was closed with prayer. Monday, June 12th, p.m. After the prayer, a letter from Dr. Kuntze was read. His Reverence informs the Synod of a certain Mr. Ernst who became a Free Mason, and thereby incurred . . . trouble in his congregation. — Also of another mini.ster who since ordination finds his salary entirely inadequate; and the Doctor wishes that he be provided for in Pennsylvania. A third, named Strebeck, at his ordination passed a better examination than the Doctor has ever scon in America ; he is a pupil of the Doctor's. This Mr. Strebeck after signing a revers became ungrateful toward his teacher, and committed the sin? of founding an English FIFTIETH CONVENTION, 1797. 293 Lutheran Congregation and Church in New York ? After reading this letter, the Synodical Meeting passed the resolution, that persons who formerly were united with it, and accepted ordination from other parties, are no members of this Miuisterium, unless formally received anew. As it is certain that with tlie present arrangement of Synod mu- tual edification had to be neglected (because of lack of time), it was Resolved, that in future the preachers shall always meet two days before Sunday, and remain together two days after Sunday, at the place where the Synod is held. Since a considerable number of the United Congregations and pastors are on the west side of the Susquehanna, and the unity in the Pennsyl- vania INIinisterium must necessarily be maintained, it was resolved, that the Synodical ]\Ieeting be held west of the Susquehanna once every three years. The choice of place was made, and it was decided that the Synodical Meeting for next year shall be held on the Festival of the Trinity, in Lebanon. The delegates were dismissed, and the Synodical Meeting was closed with prayer. This evening IMr. Schaeffer preached in the Lutheran church and Mr. Helmuth in Otterbein's. ACTS OF THE MINISTERIAL MEETING. Tuesday, Jxjne 13th. A.M. A delegate was present from Chambersburg and Shippensburg with a written call from those congregations for Mr. Plitt. The Ministerium gave Mr. Plitt some written questions, with the directions to hand in a written answer in the afternoon. A certain Mr. Mackard petitioned for admission into the Ministerium. Resolved, the JVIinisterium wishes to have nothing to do Avith Mr. Mack- ard, and advises him to return to Germany. Mr. Heinrich Geisenheiner also petitioned to be admitted. Written questions were given to him also, his answers in writing to be handed in this afternoon. Licentiate Jiiger had sent a writing of excuse to the " Brotherhood," in which the young man quite confidently wishes the " Brotlierhood " 294 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. much good. But an Easton paper was also shown, in which an angry letter was printed which he had written to two men in his neighborhood. In this indiscreet letter he had appealed to the jurisdiction of the Minis- terium, and thus unnecessarily mixed up the jMiuisterium in the matter. The Ministerium resolved to send him a written rebuke and admonition, which was also prepared and signed by the entire Ministerium. It read as follows : " After deliberation in the Ministerium, we inform you that the ]\Iinisterium was disgusted wuth your improper letter to Beil and Scheimer, which was read before it. It is to be regretted that you wish to play the roll of the suffering Christian, yea, even of the hero of the faith, in your unchristian letter, while you do not seem to understand the first principles of Christian character. Do you not know that all hypocrisy, especially also open hypocrisy, is an abomination in the eyes of God ? Do you not know that Jesus did not revile when He was reviled ? You abuse, revile and slander where you are not reviled, and yet you undertake to preach His Gospel ! We exhort you to ask God to grant you knowledge of yourself, to your most neces- sary improvement. You shall and must show fruits of improvement, or the Miuisterium cannot retain you as a member. The President expects a written declaration, when you apply for your license, written and signed Avith your own hand, in which you express regret of your action, and earnestly promise improvement. Without such declaration, the license you have had shall not be continued. It is pity for you — you might be useful, if you could watch over and rule your corrupt self-love. Be converted, poor brother, that your soul may be saved in the day of Jesus Christ." This session was closed with prayer. Tuesday, June 13th, p.m. Mr. Plitt and Mr. Geisenheiner handed in their answers. They were read. Plitt's were considered fairly good. Now the question was discussed as to the admission of !Mr. Plitt, and appointing him for the congregations in Chambersburg and Shippens- burg. Chambersburg had formed an agreement with Licentiate Koth- rauff, and he had been empowered by the officers of the Ministerium to serve the congregations until the Sy nodical Meeting. Then Mr. Plitt arrived — and, because Mr. Rothrauff evidently does not care to pay compliments on the way to Heaven, it seems that ho did not {>o&*es3 sufficient refinement for many members. He was set aside and Mr. Plitt was taken in his place. This tyro of a preacher began with ser- mons against the false prophets. But since little is known in that region of prophets, not to say anything of false prophets, the matter was FIFTIETH CONVENTION, 1797. 296 misunderstood, and gave offence. Mr. Plitt was reproached with various sentences and phrases, which are reported to have been heard in his sermons ; and there may have been people who were not averse to reckon him, with all his zeal, among the false prophets. This condition of affivirs caused much anxiety to the IMinisterium. But since Mr. Plitt is generally believed to be a capable young man who may become useful, after much deliberation the unanimous decision was finally reached by the Miuisterium, that Mr. Plitt shall be authorized by the Ministerium to serve as catechist. — As long as he thus serves in Chambei'sburg and Shippensburg he shall be under the supervision of Mr. Melsheimer. — He was advised, however, to leave those congregations in case he should be called to New Holland (where Doctor Muhlenberg shall propose him). Then he shall be under the supervision of Dr. Muhlenberg, as a catechist. The candidates who were present handed in their diaries and sermons. All those who had sent letters of excuse, had also sent their diaries and some sermons, except Messrs. Stock and Benz. These papers were distributed among the ordained preachers, who examined them in the presence of the candidates. They made very good reports concerning them. This afternoon session was closed with prayer. This evening Mr. Rothrauff preached in the Lutheran Church and Mr. Herbst in Otter- bein's. "Wednesday, June 14th, a.m. Concerning Mr. Heinrich Geisenheiner it was Resolved, That he might serve some congregations under the supervision of his brother, on the condition that he shall write a sermon every three months, and (if pos- sible), personally bring it to Philadelphia to Mr. Helmuth or Mr. Schmidt for criticism. A man, named Carl Andreas KiernulfF, had sent Latin writings which were full of mistakes. He wished, in case the Ministerium wanted to build up the Kingdom of God, to have Friedrichstown or a still better congregation. According to his manner of speaking, to build the Kingdom of God meant to help him to a rich salary. The Ministerium resolved to have nothing at all to do with tliis man. Mrs. Liitge had heard that there was a fund to help preachers' widows. She wrote and asked for a share, beginning at the time when her husband died. Mr. Plitt shall inform her that no such funds exist. Mr. Heinrich Geisenheiner received a license as catechist for Welsch, Weeping and Upper Dublin in Montgomery County. Mr. RothraufT's license was extended to Falling Spring and Scherer's. Mr. Plitt received a license as catechist for Chambersburg and Ship- pensburg. The license of the remaining candidates were renewed. A 296 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. statement of their duties was read to the candidates and catechiats, and they bound themselves to fulfill them by giving their bauds The Ministerium closed its last session for this year with siuging of a stanza and with devout prayer. The unfeigned fraternal love which seemed to rule among the pastors — the remarkable hospitality of the congregation at Baltimore — will, it is hoped, remain a blessed memory. Jacob Goering, P. t. Secretary. FIFTY-FIRST CONVENTION. 1798. (Friday, June 1st, a.m). PROTOCOL OF THE SYNODICAL MEETING. Held in Lebanon, June 1-4, a.d. 1798. At 9 o'clock tlie ministers and delegates assembled in the school- house and the Synod was opened with prayer. 1. The Ordained Preachers Present were : Mr. Wilhelm Kurz, from Johnstown, Pennsylvania. " Christ. Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken, Pennsylvania. " J. C Henrich Helmuth, Th.D., from Philadelphia, Pennsyl- vania. Mr. Friederich Schmidt, from Philadelphia. " Henrich Muhlenberg, Th.D., from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. " Jacob Goering, from Yorktown, Pennsylvania. " Heinrich Moller, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. " Jacob Buskirk, from Macunschy, Pennsylvania. " Friedrich Schiifer, from Germantown, Pennsylvania. '' Friederich Wilhelm Geisenhainer, from New Goshenhoppen, Pennsylvania. Mr. Daniel Lehman, from Reading, Pennsylvania. " C. Friederich Wildbahn, from Reading, Pennsylvania. " Paul Hinckel, from Shenandoah, Virginia. 2. The Licensed Candidates Present were: Mr. Job. Conrad Jager, from William Township. " Joh. Friederich Obeuhausen, from AUeminguo. " George Lochmann, from Lebanon. " Joh Andreas Schulze, from Tulpehocken. " George Griiber, from Mitteltown, York County. " Joh. Gropp, from Mitteltown, York County. " Johannes Volz, from Rackenheim, Virginia. 297 298 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Mr. Johann George Schmucker, from Hagerstowu, Maryland. " Adolph Spindler, from Augusta County, Virginia. " Joh. Michael Steck, from Griinsburg. " Friedrich Willielm Lauge, from Berlin. " Peter Beuz, from Mountjoy. 3. Catechists. Mr. Johann Plitt, from Chambersburg. " Heinrich Geisenhainer. 4. Applicants. Mr. Joh. Georg. Roller. " Wilhelm Forster. 5. Delegates with Credentials were Present : From Tulpehocken Mr. Martin Walbom. Philadelphia " Peter Kraft. Lancaster " Jacob Stahl. York " Martin Weiser. Mittletown, Maryland " Johannes Fassnacht, Lebanon " Jacob Stieb. Dover, York County " Andreas Stauch. Greensburg " Jacob Stroh. Nevr Goshenhoppen " Jacob Pickel. 6. Absent Ordained Preachers who Sent Letters of Excuse : Mr. Christian Stxeit, Daniel Schroter, Valentin Mclsheimer, David Jung. 7. Absent Licensed Candidates who Sent Written Excuse : Mr. Johannes Stauch, Johann Rothrauf, Carl Stock [Steck], Johann Herbst. As officers, were elected : Dr. Muhlenberg, President, and C. Emanuel Schulze, Secretaiy. The various papers addressed to the Synod were handed in, and the Protocol of the last Sy nodical Meeting was read. The number of Baptized, Confirmed, Communicants, and Deceased durmg the last year was reported by the preachers : Bap- Con- muni- De- Congregations, tlzed. firmed, cants, ceased. Mr. Wilhelm Kurz . . As formerly — — — — " Emanuel Schulze As before 107 956 776 47 Philadelphia .... As before 307 107 1023 229 262 116 292 42 FIFTY-FiliST C02s^VENTI0N, 1798. 299 Com- Bap- Con- muni- De- Congregations, tizod. firm'd. cants, ceas'd. Cohensy 56 — 45 — Mr. Muhlenberg 197 52 606 39 " Moller Langstaufer's . . . Schvvaben Criek . . Mahauai Leickeusthal, besides the former . . . " Schmucker ... As before' 138 60 324 45 " Hinkel As before 97 48 — 9 " Jiiger Springfield, besides the former 112 32 432 ? " Frd. Geisenhainer 136 111 768 53 " Schroter 200 86 944 26 " Schiifer 55 21 201 33 " Obenhausen . . . Heidelberg, besides the former 87 71 1107 31 " Melsheimer 175 84 435 17 " Lochmann 141 28 494 59 « Griiber. 120 87 487 20 " Grob 141 38 744 23 " Folz 147 93 353 10 " Spindler 35 21 130 5 « Steck 335 67 333 37 " Plitt 66 25 47 14 " Rothrauf •• ... 115 63 223 21 " Lange 180 113 279 16 From Johnstown letters were handed in, in which they requested that they might be given assistance in their sad condition, according to the promise made last year. Whereupon it was resolved to refer the matter to a committee, which should report upon it. To this commit- tee were chosen Rev. Mr. IMoller, — Kraft, Stahl. These were charged to report this afternoon, after having heard the case from both sides. From Mr. Jiiger's congregations a letter was read, in which they excused themselves for not sending a delegate to the Synod. Sjiring- field requested to be served by INIi-. Jiiger. Thereupon it was resolved that ]Mr. Jiiger might accept the congregation and serve it. The forenoon session was closed with prayer. 300 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Friday, June 1st, p.m. Opened with prayer. In reference to a communication from several Reformed members in Dover, York County, the Synod resolved : The Lutherans in Dover are to be advised to permit the Reformed to allow any preacher who is a member of the Reformed Ministerium, or is recommended by a member of the same, to hold services in the church, with' the under- standing that the same liberty be granted by the Reformed, that any preacher who is a member of the Lutheran Ministerium, or is recom- meuded by a member of the same, may hold service in the church. Further, that this agreement be confirmed by the signatures of all the members of both congregations, and be regarded as a necessary addition to their Constitution, aud, on the other hand, that the 4th and 5th Articles shall be altered and annulled. Further, that a copy of this shall be given to both parties. The committee concerning Johnstown made a report, in which they advised that, because they could not think that Rev. Mr. Kurz would be able to restore union, it might be best if the congregation, after it had come to terms with INIr. Jacinsky, and he had left the congrega- tion, would apply to Rev. Mr. Lochmann to be served by him. Where- upon it was resolved to accept this proposition, and advise IMr. Loch- mann to accept this congregation, but not to accept Klopp's Church. From Penn's Valley, in Northumberland County, came a paper, in which they report the lamentable depravity of their preacher, and request to have their district supplied with another preacher who has the salvation of immortal souls at heart. They were answered in writ- ing, that Mr. Espich was no longer recognized as a member of the Ministerium, and that the congregations might apply to any preacher in the Ministerium by whom they wish and can hope to be served. The congregations at Abbotstown requested that they might be served by Mr. Gropp. Their desire was granted. Hereupon the session was closed with prayer. In the evening Mr. Spindler preached on Acts 3 : 19, 20. Saturday, June 2, a.m. Opened with prayer. A letter from Abbotstown was handed in, in which several members of the congregation report, that after ^Ir. Schriiter had consented to serve them for another year, the church was closed to him. A member of the IMinisterium was comnli5^sioned to request Pastor SchWlter to permit Mr. Gropp to serve the congregation, with which all members of the Ministerium present were satisfied. FIFTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1798. 301 Hereupon Millerstown, in Macunscliy, was appointed as the place where the Synodical Meeting should be held next year, and that the meeting should begin on the Festival of the Trinity ; and that, there- fore, the resolution made at Baltimore to be present on the Friday preceding be annulled. The delegates were then dismissed after the session was closed with prayer. MINISTERIAL SESSION. Several hours were devoted to this on Saturday forenoon. The candidates who were present handed in their licenses, journals, and sermons, which were distributed among the ordained preachers for examination. Indianfield, Altgoshenhoppen and Tohecken requested that Mr. Roller be received into the Ministerium, and at the same time gave a good testimonial respecting his life. For this purpose it was resolved to examine Mr. Roller. Likewise, several congregations in Shenandoah County requested that Mr. Wilhelm Forster be received as a member, that he might fill the office of pastor among them. It was resolved to examine him also. A conversation was had with him before the afternoon meeting, and various questions put to him. As request was also made from Chambersburg and Shippenstown that Mr. Plitt be advanced so that ho might administer the Lord's Supper, it was also agreed to examine him. Saturday, p.m. After Mr. Plitt and Mr. Roller had translated several verses from the Greek Testament, several written questions were handed them to be answered. After a few hours they brought in their answers, and also a brief disquisition on John 3 : 36. After the answers had been examined, the session was closed with prayer. In the evening, Mr. Schmucker, from Hagerstown, preached on Prov. 5 : 6. Sunday, June 3d, a. m. Soon after 9 o'clock, the preachers and the delegates of the several congregations went to the old church, and thence to the new church to consecrate it. President Muhlenberg, having with a solemn prayer at the altar con- secrated this church to be a house of salvation, preached the consecra- tion sermon on Gal. 6 : 15, 16. In the afternoon, Dr. Helmuth preached on Ps. 68 : 27 ; in the evening, P. Schmidt on Gen. 4 : 4. 302 DOCUMENTARY HISTOKY. Monday, June 4th. After the service, at which P. Goering preached, the ^Ministerial Meet- ing wat) continued. p. Wildbahn announced, that he had given up the Friedrichstown congregation, and handed in a letter from that congregation, in which they not only report his resignation, and that they have written to P. Storck in Carolina, in order to have him serve their congregation, but also request that we should assist them by visiting and preaching for them, until their congregation is again supplied. Thereupon it was Resolved, to report to them, that we would assist them. The Mandatorii (Attorneys) of Director Schulze of the Orphan House in Halle distributed to the preachers present, and the widow of the deceased Mr. Liitge, seventy-one dollars interest of the Rodelheim legacy, making £26, 12 sh., 6 d. Of this, each preacher received two dollars, and the widow of Mr. Liitge, eleven dollars. Hereupon, the session was closed with prayer. Afternoon. Session was again opened with prayer. Concerning Mr. Endress, who lives in Philadelphia and preaches in Frankford, it was decided that, if he appears before Dr. Muhlenberg, and Messrs. Schiifer and Schulze for examination, he shall, if they see lit, be granted a license. Thereupon it was approved, that Mr. Plitt and Mr. Forster, because of their remoteness from ordained preachers, shall have licenses as can- didates, and Mr. Roller as catechist, under the supervision of ]\Ir. Fr. Geisenhainer. These licenses they then received from the President, after they had been admonished of their duties, and had promised to fulfill the same. Mr. Diehl also again received his license. After the licenses of the other candidates were also renewed, the Ministerial jMceting of this time was ended with earnest prayer and the singing of a stanza of a hymn. In the evening. Rev. Mr. Schiifer, from Germantown, preached. Henrich Muhlenberg, P. t. President. Christ. Emanuel Schulze, P. t. Secretary. FIFTY-SECOND CONVENTION. 1799. PROTOCOL OF THE SYNODICAL MEETING. Held in Lancaster, May 19-21, Anno DoiriNi, 1799. On the day preceding May 17th, a number of the members of the Rev. Ministerium arrived. On May 18th, the Festival of the Trinity, they went to church, where Dr. Helmuth preached an edifying sermon on I Sam. 3:1. In the afternoon, Emanuel Schulze preached on Heb. 12 : 14, and in the even- ing P. Schmidt on Acts 3 : 37. On Monday, the 19th, Pastor Daniel Kurz preached in the forenoon, on I Pet. 1 : 17. After the sermon, the preachers and the delegates of the congregations went to the school-house, where the Synodical Meet- ing was begun with prayer. The following preachers were present : 1. Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken, 2. Dr. Helmuth, ) ^^^^ Philadelphia. 3. Mr. Friedrich Schmidt, J 4. " Friederich Wildbahn, from Rockland. 5. " Henrich INIolIer, from Harrisburg. 6. " Jacob Goring, from Yorktown. 7. " Daniel Lehman, from Reading. 8. " Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. 9. " Friederich Schiifer, from Germantown. 10. " Dr. Henrich Muhlenberg, pastor /oci. 11. " Valentine Melsheimer, from Hanover. 12. " Friedrich Geisenhainer, from Goshenhoppen. 13. " Job. David Jung, from IMartinsburg. Licensed Candidates. 1. Mr. Job. Conrad Jiiger, from William's Townsliip. 2. " George Lochmann, from Lebanon. 8. " Job. George Schmucker, from Hagerstown. 303 Lancaster, y 304 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 4. Mr. Joh. Caspar Diehl, from Jordan. 5. " Peter Benz, from Cocalico. 6. " Joh. Friedrich Obenhausen, from Weisenburg. 7. " Joh. Andreas Schulze, from Tulpehocken. 8. " Johannes Rothrauff, from Green Castle. 9. '* Johannes Herbst, from Carlisle. 10. " Johannes Plitt, from New Holland. Catechists Present. 1. Mr. Heinrich Gaisenhainer, from Whitepene. 2. " Joh. George Roller, from Indianfield. Delegates with Credentials. From Tulpehocken, Mr. Leonhardt Immel. u -Di,-! J 1 1,- ) Mr. Peter Kraft. Philadelphia, I ., c„„ad Haass. Michael INIoser. Melchor Rudesiehl. " Yorktown, Mr. Peter Diehl. " Martinsburg, Va., Mr. Nicolaus Streber. " Lebanon, Mr. Hen rich Gilbert. " Green Castle, Mr. Johannes Kramer. " Carlisle, Mr. Martinus Ritsch. " New Holland, Peter Diller. Absent ordained preachers, who excused themselves : 1. Mr. Ludwig Voigt; 2. Mr. Wilhelm Kurz, Johnstown; 3. Mr. Jacob Buskirk, Macunshy ; 4. Mr. Christian Streit ; 5. INIr. Wilhelm Carpenter, Culpepper, Virginia; 6. Mr. Paul Hinkcl, Shenandoah, Vir- ginia ; 7. Mr. Daniel Schroter, without excuse. Absence licensed candidates who excused tliemselves in writing : 1. Johannes Gropp, from Dover; 2. Carl Stock, Picket Mountain, without excuse; 3. Wilhelm Langc, Berlin, Avithout excuse; 4. Stauch, without excuse. As officers were elected : Dr. Muhlenberg, President ; and C Ini- manuel Schulze, Secretary. Thereupon the pai:)crs addressed to the Synod were handed in, and the Protocol of the last Synodical Meeting was read. The preachers handed in the number of baptized, confirmed, com- municants and deceased in their congregations, as follows : FIFTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1799. 305 Con- Communi- De- Congregations. Baptisms, finned. cants, ceased. EmanuelSchulze,as-K^^^^^^^^ .... 195 132 929 42 sisted by his son . j Philadelphia — — — — H. Muhlenberg 178 48 533 37 Schafer 82 21 185 31 Moller 10 congregations . 158 22 390 17 Fr. Geisenhainer 104 42 432 26 Jager 127 104 629 16 Lochmann 163 37 631 54 Schmucker 150 40 198 30 Dill Jordan, Junians, T A- ^M '61 63 549 7 indianheid Jung 109 30 172 28 Benz [Pens] — — — — Obenhausen 105 91 1305 43 Rothrauff 127 53 305 14 Herbst 198 54 268 26 ^^^" Holland and Al- 1 ^^ ^8 138 5 legheny ... J . Steck 102 45 340 15 Hr. Geisenhainer 24 — 94 6 Roller — — — — Stauch 181 103 200 23 Carpenter 93 28 204 23 Kurz 86 42 256 37 The morning session was closed with prayer. Monday, May 19th, p.m. In the afternoon a communication from Penns and Brosche Valley was read ; they asked for a preacher ; whereupon it was resolved, that they shall before long be visited by Rev. Mr. IMelsheimer, whose advice they may follow. The people from Marck's requested that they be permitted to call Mr. Gropp as their preacher ; thereupon it was decided to answer them : that, as the Synodical Meeting shall next time be held on the west side of the Susquehanna, the affairs of the congregations at Abbotstown and of Marck's be postponed until that time ; in the meantime the members of said congregations shall be at liberty in case of funerals and other cases of real necessity, to apply to the neighboring preachers. Upon the request of the Carlisle congregation, that they might be 306 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY served more frequently by Mr. Herbst, and that lie be therefore advised to give up the so-called York congregation, it was, resolved, that it be left to Mr. Herbst to do as he considered best. The two congregations of Scherers and Falling Spring, which desire to be served by Mr. Rothrauff, received the consent of the Synod in this matter. Likewise the desire of the " Druckenliinder," in Nazareth Township, who requested to be served by Mr. Jiiger, was granted. Since P. Voigt announced that because of his advancing age he desired to lay down his office, and that two delegates from Pikesland would request to be served by another preacher, it was resolved, to answer the delegates, that the Synod hiis so much confidence in its old and worthy member, Voigt, that they would do well to use his advice in this matter, and let him propose a preacher to them. Hereupon McAllister [Carlisle stricken out] was appointed as the place where the Synodical Meeting shall be held next year, and that it shall begin on Trinity Sunday. The Synodical Meeting was closed with prayer. MINISTERIAL MEETING. This was begun with prayer on Tuesday morning at 9 o'clock. As Mr. Roller and Heurich Gaisenhaiuer made request for a full license, it was resolved to examine them. After they had been examined their desire was granted. Hereupon a letter, in which Mr. Sparke requests to be admitted into the Miuisterium, was read. The decision was reached that Mr. Ludolph Sparke be treated in a friendly manner by us ; but that he needs to be further examined as to his life before being admitted. The papers which Mr. Jasinsky brought along with reference to his reception into the Miuisterium were also read. After the question had been put in this matter, the majority were agreed in this: That, if he present himself for examination and renounce the ordination which he had wrongly received, a full license shall be given him. Concerning Mr. Flors, who requested to be received, it was resolved, after he had been examined by Dr. Helmuth and Pastor Goering, that he be granted a full license as candidate. The candidates and catechists handed in their licenses, sermotis and diaries. These sermons were read in part one after the other (Stiick- weise) and admonitions given according to circumstances. FIFTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1799. 307 Dr. Helmuth and Pastor Schmidt as mandatorii (attorneys) of Direc- tor Schulze in Halle in reference to the Rodelheim legacy, distributed £46 17s. 6d. among twenty-five preachers, so that each received five dollars. And to Mr. Wilhelm Kurz, because of his need, £7 15s. was sent from the same legacy. ^ This session was closed with prayer. Tuesday, May 21st, p. m. After prayer the licenses of the candidates were renewed. Messrs. Roller, Gaisenhainer and Jasinsky were admonished of their duties, and after they had promised to fulfill them, their licenses were handed to them. After discussing various cases of conscience in pastoral work, the present Ministerial Meeting was closed with an earnest prayer by the President, and the singing of a stanza of a hymn. In the evening Mr. Friederich Geisenhainer preached. Chr. Emanuel Schulze, P. t. Secretary. FIFTY-THIRD CONVENTION. 1800. PROTOCOL OF THE SYNODICAL MEETING. Held at McAllister, Jcne Gth and lOrn, 1800. Most of the members of the Evangelical Lutheran IMinisterium as- Bembled in McAllister [Hanover, York Co.] on June 7th. June 8th. Being the Festival of the Holy Trinity, one part went to the Evan- gelical Lutheran Church, where President Muhlenberg preached in the forenoon on II Tim. 4 : 1-4 ; in the afternoon ]\Ir. Schmucker preached. The other part went to the Reformed Church, where Pastor Kurz, from Baltimore, preached in the forenoon and ]Mr. Stauch in the afternoon. June 9th, a. m. The ministers and delegates present assembled in !Mr. Melsheimer's parsonage, and the Synod was opened with prayer. 1. The ordained preachers present were : Dr. 3Iuhlenberg, from Lancaster. Mr. Emanuel Schulze, from Tulpehocken. " Friedrich Wildbahn, from Merz Church, Amity Township and Spyse Church. Mr. Friedrich INIclzheimer, from McAllister. " Daniel Schroter, from McAllister. '* David Jung, from Mnrtinsburg, in Virginia. " Christian Streit, from ]\Iillerstown, in Virginia. " AVilhehn Carpenter, from Culpepper, in Virginia. " Paul Hinkel, from Stcnton, in Virginia. " Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. 2. Candidates present were : Mr. George Lochraann, from Lebanon. " Joli. George Schmucker, from Ilagerstown, Maryland. " Joh. Conrad Jiiger, from Williams Township. 308 FIFTY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1800. 309 Mr. Andreas Schulze, from Tulpehocken. " Joh. Rothrauf, from Greencastle. " Joh. Herbst, from Carlisle. " Joh. Plitt, from New Holland. " Joh. Stauch, from Redstone. " Joh. Grob, Paradise Township. " Adoljih Spindler, in Virginia. " Friederich Jasinsky, from Chambersburg. " George Griiber, from Mitteltown, [Md.] " Wilhelm Forster, from Hacksbill. " Joh. Folz, from Rackenheim. '' George Flohr, Read Creek. 3. Delegates with credentials were present : From Lancaster, Michael Moser. " Tulpehocken, Joh. Nicolaus Killmer. " McAllister, George Carl. Regarding Mr. Schroter, Philip Wolilfarth. From Stenton, Conrad Reinecker. " Lebanon, George Reinohl. " Williams Township, Caspar Ritter. " Hagerstown, Carl Gelwicks. " Greencastle, Dewald Meng. " Carlisle, Joh. Griiber. " Paradise Township, George Michael Miller. " Chambersburg, Joh. Heck. " Mitteltown, Dr. Henrich Gallman. " Hacksbill, George Prinz. 4. Absent ordained preachers who sent excuses : Dr. Helmuth, Mr. Fr. Schmidt, from Philadelphia ; Mr. Schiifer, from Germantown ; Mr. Henrich Moller, from Harrisburg; JNIr. Jacob Goring, from York- town, sick. Without excuse: Mr. Lehman, in Reading; Mr. Jacob Buskirk; Mr. Fried. Geisenhainer. 5. Absent Catechists. — Wilhelm Lange, excused ; Joh. George Roller, excused : Dill, satisfactory excuse ; Peter Pens, excused ; Hein- rich Geisenhainer, not excused ; Joh. Fried. Obenhausen, not excused. As officers, the following were again elected : Dr. Muhlenberg, Presi- dent, and C. Emanuel Schulze, Secretary. The papers addressed to the Synod were handed in, and the Pro- tocol of last year's meeting was read. 310 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. The number of baptized, confirmed, communicants and deceased was reported hy the preachers. Baptized. Confirmed. Comnmnicants. Deceased. Dr. Muhlenberg 169 73 535 43 Emanuel Schulze, together with } ,213 82 808 46 his son Lochmann^ 227 72 591 40 Schmucker 120 40 243 17 Jung 70 26 146 29 Carpenter 109 13 147 9 Jager 148 62 652 30 Rothrauf 165 36 363 14 Herbst 225 95 298 18 Plitt 83 74 471 13 Stanch 116 — 266 14 Grob 92 32 307 24 Spindler 108 34 180 — Lange 99 75 236 7 Jasinsky 122 47 287 19 Graeber 131 72 591 40 Foster, two years 120 103 570 — Fols, two years 162 46 424 12 Flohr 89 54 189 8 Roller 71 49 355 30 [No statistics from] Revs. Helmuth and Schmidt, Schiifer, Melshei- mer, Schroter, Streit, Kurz, F. Geisenhainer, Obenhausen, Penn's. Hereupon the papers from Penn's Valley and five other congrega- tions were read ; they asked for a preacher, and promised to make up £140 for his salary. The delegates were informed that answer would be made them this afternoon or to-morrow morning. Further, a letter was read from IMarck's congregation, which requests to be served. The motion was made, that, since the congregation has been left by its former preacher, it be i)erniittcd to take Mr. Grob as its preacher. Besides these, the letter of the Abbotstown congregations was read ; they desire to be served by ]Mr. Grob. Whereupon it was resolved : If any agreement can be made concern- ing Mr. Schroter and these congregations, it shall be done by a com- mittee. Mr. Schmidt, from Easttown, reported that they were satisfied with their preacher. ' As last year, seven congregations. FIFTY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1767. 311 Conrad Riclimann, wlio resides not far from Yorktown, petitioned to be received into the j\Iinisterium. lie was instructed to appear at the Ministerial Meeting. Wilhelm Illgen, who has thus far been schoolmaster in the Cohensie congregation, requested to be received into the Ministerium, brought testimonials concerning his character and life, and was directed to re- port at the jNIinisterial Meeting. From Albenual a communication was also read, in which they re- quest that iSlr. Fols, a brother of the candidate, be granted permission to baptize children. Through a committee on improving the state of affairs in the Abbots- town congregation it was resolved, 1, That it is very wrong and un- christian arbitrarily to close the church to any preacher of the Gospel, and therefore the conduct against Rev. Schroter, in Abbotstown, is dis- approved ; 2. But since, as it seems, the congregations cannot be united unless they hold another free election of a preacher, such free election for any preacher in the Ministerium is recommended to the regular congregations, without injury to the union which has existed for years between the Conewago congregation and Abbotstown. The choice of the place and time for the Synodical Meeting next year was then made. Philadelphia, and the Festival of the Trinity, were chosen. Hereupon the delegates were dismissed, and the Synodical Meeting closed with prayer. MINISTERIAL MEETING. This was begun with prayer, on Monday afternoon. Mr. Sebastian Folz and Conrad Richmann reported, to be received by the ]\Iinisterium as catechists. A passage was given to Sebastian Folz to be written out (ein Spruch wegen des Schreibens vorgelegt), and a sermon written by C. Richmann was read. The candidates handed in their sermons and diaries. Revs. Mr. Melsheimer, Kurz and Jung were apjwinted to examine Messrs. Illgen and Miller. The young ministers were advised in reference to the conduct of their office. Thereupon the session was closed with prayer. 312 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Evening, 7-10 o'clock. The sermons handed in by the candidates were gone over. Tuesday Morning, 8-12, The sermons were handed back to the candidates, with the necessary annotations and instructions. A sermon by Mr. Plitt, as also one sent by Mr, Roller, was read. The sermons by Mr. Lochmann, Jiiger, Schmucker and Schulze gave satisfaction. Dr. Kunze's letter, concerning Mr. Wigand, was read, and, resolved, that Dr. Muhlenberg shall answer it. Concerning Rev. Mr. Jung, it was resolved, that, on his journey home- ward, he should stop in Danytown, and that he be recommended to that congregation as a suitable person to serve it. Afternoon, soon after 2 o'clock. Service was held in the Lutheran Church. After Mr. Jager had preached a sermon, the four candidates, Lochmann, Jager, Schmucker and Schulze, received ordination. Hereupon the pastor loci, offered prayer, thanked the members of the Ministeriura for the kindness shown to the people of McAllister, and commended them to the gracious protection of our faithful Shep- herd, Jesus. That the above all happened thus, we witness. C. Emanuel Schulze, P. t. Secretary. FIFTY-FOURTH CONVENTION. 1801. (Sunday, May 31st.) SYNODICAL MEETING. Held in Philadelphia, May 31, and June 1 and 2, a.d. 1801. In the forenoon Dr. Miililenberg preached in Zion's Church, and Mr. Obenhauss in St. Michael's. In the afternoon Pastor Lochmann preached in Zion's, and Mr. Jasinsky in St. Michael's. In the evening Dr. Ivunze preached in Zion. Monday, June 1, a.m. At nine o'clock the ministers and delegates assembled (in Zion's Church) and the Synod was opened with prayer. Ministers present were : 1. Ordained Preachers. Mr. Emanuel Schulze, Senior Ministerii, from Tulpehocken, Penna. " Henrich Helmuth, Theol. Dr., ] „ -m -i j i i • " Friedrich Schmidt, | from Philadelphia. •' Johann C. Kunze, Th. Dr., from New York. " Henrich JMiihlenberg, Th. Dr., from Lancaster. " Jacob Goring, from Yorktown, Pennsylvania. " Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore, Maryland. " Daniel Lehman, from Misillum, Pennsylvania. " Henrich Moller, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. " Friedrich D. Schafer, from Germantown, Pennsylvania. " George Lochmann, from Lebanon, Pennsylvania. " Conrad Jiiger, from Williams Township, Pennsylvania. " Friedrich Geisenheiner, from Falckner Schwaum, Pennsylvania. 2. Licensed Candidates. Mr, Christian Endress, from Philadelphia. " Job. G. Roller, from Indianfield, Pennsylvania. " Heinrich Geisenheiner, from Chester County, Pennsylvania. " Peter Benz, from Cocalico. 813 314 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Mr. Johann Herbst, from Carlisle, Pennsylvania. " Friedrich Obenhauss, from Weisenburg, Pennsylvania. " Willi. Forster, from Shenandoah, Virginia. " Friedrich Jasinsky, from Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. " Carl Stock, from Sunbury, Pennsylvania. 3. Delegates with "Written Credentials. Mr. Peter Kraft and Conrad Haas, from Philadelphia. " Johann Altimus, from Germantown. " P Gartner, from Yorktown. " Jacob Spang, from Tulpehocken. " Peter Saurwein, from Baltimore. " J. Imboden, from Lebanon. " Casper Ritter, from Williams Township. " Philip Konig, from Pikeland, Chester County. As officers were elected : Pastor Schmidt, President ; Fr. D. Schiifer, Secretary. Absent Ministers were : 1. Those who excused themselves — Friedrich V. Melsheimer, orally and in writing; Joh. Andr. Schulze, orally; Wilhelm Ilgen,- orally ; Johannes Rothrauf, in writing, because of the great distance ; Daniel Schrdder, in writing ; Johann Grob, because of sickness; George Flohr, in writing ; Paul Hinckel, ; Johann Plitt, because of the consecration of a Reformed Church. 2. Who did not excuse themselves : C. Friedrich Wildbahn, Caspar Dill, Christian Streit, Adolph Spindler, David Jung, Wilhelm Car- penter, George Schmucker, Sebastian Foltz, George Griiber, Friedrich Lange, Johann Stauch, Joh. Michael Steck. The various papers which were received were handed in, and the Protocol of the last Synodical Meeting was read. Then those members who were absent last time without sufficient excuse were admonished by the President. Letters from the congregation in New Hanover and that in Xew- goshenhoppen were read ; they testify to their satisfaction with their pastor, and beg to be excused for not sending a delegate. A similar letter from Mr. Roller's congregations on the Tohick and Indianfield. A letter from four congregations in Westmoreland County, Penn- sylvania, was read ; they testify to their satisfaction with Mr. Steck, and beg that his absence be excused, because of sickliness. Reports of special meetings were not received. 1. A letter from the congregation (Zion's Church) in Shenandoah FIFTY-FOUETH CONVENTION, 1801. 316 County, Virginia, was read, in which they ask for a faithful minister ; also promising gladly to contribute towards his support, besides giving him a free dwelling and forty acres of land for his use. (This free and voluntary promise saves much time Avhich would have been lost, if the Church Council would first have to find out what could be done) (wegen des sondirens ihres Kirchenraths). Hereupon it was resolved, that said congregation at the Zion'g Church be advised to use the services of Mr. Forster. This resolution was written out in the name of the Ministerium, with the hearty wish for the welfare (Seelenheil) of the congregation, 2. A letter from the congregation in Easton [Penna.] was read, in which they deplore the decline of their congregation, and express the sincere desire to be supplied with a pastor from the Ministerium ; espe- cially since their present preacher, Mr. August Schmidt has resigned, and will leave by the end of November. The ]\Iinisterium deliberated upon this matter. Mr. Abraham Bach- mann, a delegate from Easton, orally confirmed tl>e contents of the letter, so also Rev. A. Schmidt, in reference to his resignation, which is to take effect at the end of November. It was believed that Easton (near which are two or three vacant con- gregations) could in time become one of the main congregations of our Evangelical Church. It was then Resolved, That the congregation at Easton be advised to apply to any preacher of the ]\Iinisterium, and if they desired, call him as their pastor. This resolution was put into writing to be sent to the said congregation. The forenoon session was closed Avith prayer. Monday, June 1st, p.m. Opened with prayer. 3. A letter from the congregation in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, was read, in which they ask for a pastor, stating that they would have done this two years ago, had not Mr. Stock come to them w' ith recommenda- tions from a member of the IMinisterium, and they then received him as pastor ; but as he has now left them, they ask for a faithful, worthy pastor, for whose support they and the neighboring congregations will provide. The ^Ministerium commits these congregations to the care of the Great Shepherd, and wishes that they could be supplied Avith a faith- ful pastor. [This writing, No. 3, was answered.] 4. A letter from the Zion's church in Vincent was read. This congregation and St. Peter's church in Pikeland were served by P. Voigt as their common pastor, almost until his death, and since the 316 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. church property and parsonage belong to these two congregations, the faithful members desire that they might together be served by a peace- loving, prudent and unblamable pastor, such as Mr. Voigt was. Here- upon it was resolved, that Dr. Helmuth and Dr. Miihlenberg, as preachers, and Messrs. Kraft, Altimus and Bachman, as delegates, be a committee to investigate the affairs of both congregations, and report. After investigation and consideration of the condition of Zion's and St. Peter's churches in Chester County, the committee made a proposi- tion, which was unanimously approved. The Ministerium proposes that both congregations have several of the preachers of the Ministerium preach for them, and then accord- ing to the charter of the congregations, after due notice, arrange an election in common, and in peace and unity accepting any one of those rightly elected as their pastor. This proposition, together with an admonition to love and concord, was put into writing and sent to said congregations. 5. A letter from the congregation in Heading was read, and there- upon resolved, that the congregation be advised to apply to any ])reacher of the Ministerium, and, if found satisfactory, call him to be their pastor. 6. A letter from the congregations at Emmetstown and on Thomas' Creek, was read, and thereupon resolved, that Dr. jMiihlenberg prepare the answer to them ; which was done. 7. A letter from Middletown, Elizabethtown and Maytown was read, in which they ask for a preacher. 8. A letter from JNIartinsburg, Shepherdsburg and Schmidtficld was read, in which they request that Mr. Jasinsky might be appointed their preacher. This session was closed with prayer at six o'clock. In the evening Friedrich D. Schafer preached in St. Michael's. Tuesday, June 2d, a.u. At 9 o'clock the session was opened with prayer in Zion's church. Concerning No. 8, it was resolved, that Mr. Jasinsky accept (if he desire) the call to said congregations. 9. Two letters concerning Mr. Jasinsky. The one from the Church Council in Chanibersburg, saying that they had been compelled to dis- miss Mr. Jasinsky, because they could no longer collect the salary pro- mised him. The other, from the Church Council at Sliipponsburg, of similar contents, with the addition that the separation from the Schcrcr's and Fallen Spring congregations is the reason for Mr. Jasinsky's dismissal. Resolved, The Ministerium considers it best if Chamberaburg, Ship- FIFTY-FOURTH CONVENTION, 1801. 317 pensburg and Scherer's congregations unite and remain united. In case the present preacher, Jasinsky, be not received in the three congrega- tions, the Miuisterium advises that the congregations call an entirely ncAV i)reacher. This resolution shall be communicated to the congregations and to both preachers Rothrauff and Jasinsky. 10. A letter from the Church Council of the congregation in Ma- cungie, in which the Miuisterium is requested to approve the election of Mr. Obenhausen as preacher. Resolved, That ]\Ir. Obeuhausen be granted permission to accept the congregation in Macungie, until a change be considered advisable. 11. A letter from Fantz Valley was read, in which they request that Mr. Herbst might hold service for them every four weeks. 12. A letter from Christ church, in Beaver Township, Salem's- Raus, Selinsgrove, Mohr's and Bauerman's churches was read, request- ing that Mr. Herbst be appointed pastor for said congregations, if he consents. Resolved, The Synod grants Mr. Herbst jDcrmission to accept the said Christ Church and the congregations united with it — excepting however, the Derstown and Dreisbach Churches, and serve them as teacher and pastor, if he desired. The reports of the baptized, etc., as handed in are as follows: Bap- Con- Commu- De- tized. firmed, nicants. ceased. ?/■ "?f"^"!^' 1 from Philadelphia, . . .304 101 800 187 Mr. Schmidt, ) ^ " Schulze, Sen., from Tulpehocken, . . 216 179 1103 41 Dr. Miihlenberg, from Lancaster, . . . . 135 59 450 35 ]Mr. Goring, from Yorktown, — — — • — " Moller, from Harrisburg, 102 21 152 27 " Kurz, from Baltimore, 102 45 108 101 " Schiifer, from Germantown, .... 103 27 214 45 " Lehman, from Mesillum, — — — — " Lochmann, from Lebanon, .... 137 86 748 68 " Fr. Geisenheiuer, from New Hanover, 78 47 409 26 " Jiiger, from Williams Township, . . 126 115 589 27 " Obenhauss, from Griiuitsch, etc, . . 312 99 1407 41 " Roller, from Tohickon, 83 64 314 23 » H. Geisenheiuer, from Chester Co., .36 26 106 10 " Forster, from Shenandoah, 43 49 184 — « Herbst, from Carlisle, 192 81 298 28 " Endress, Ffurt. [Frankfurt], etc., . 96 6 103 — S18 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Bap- Con- Commu- De- lized. firmed, uicauts. ceased, Mr. Jasiusky, from Chambersburg, . . . bQ 21 112 25 " Beus, from Cocalico, — — — — " Schroeder, 160 76 660 15 " Rothrauff, from Green Castle, ... 101 42 273 20 «' Lange, from Berlin, 170 98 201 35 " G. Flohr, from Wythe, Virginia (four schools), 108 28 86 12 « Steg. [Steck] from Greensburg, . . 174 77 928 17 " from Welchtown, — — — — " Moller, from Friedrichsstadt, ... 71 28 68 24 " Melsheimer, — — — — " Wildbahn, — — — — Hereupon the choice of the place and time, -where and when the next annual Synodical JNIeetiug shall be held, was made. The votes were unanimous for Reading, and as usual on the Festival of the Trinity. The delegates were dismissed and the Synodical Meeting closed with prayer. MINISTERIAL MEETING, Tuesday, June 2d, 1801. The session was opened with prayer at 3 o'clock in the afternoon in Zion's Church. The candidates handed in their journals and sermons. The President named several ordained preachers as a committee to examine the writings handed in. A man named Daniel Schiifer presented himself, and requested to be received into the INIinisterium. An essay written by him was read, and several questions were put to him. lie stated that he was ignorant of the ancient languages, but that he had been able to speak with the inhabitants of the harbors into which he had come, in several modern languages, e. g., Spanish, Portuguese, etc., etc. Resolved, That Mr. Daniel Schiifer, who has applied to the IVIinis- teriuni for admission to the pastoral office, and has presented an essay as evidence of his qualifications, be advised to apply to one of the ordained preachers, and use his instructions for some time, and tliat he shall then be permitted to present himself again to the Minlsterium for examination. This resolution was communicated to him in writing. The Rev. Pastor Emanuel Schulz was then elected Senior of the Minislerium. FIFTY-FOURTH CONVE^'TION, ISOl. 319 Letters directed to the Ministerial Meeting were us follows : One from Mr. Paul Hiuckel, from Guilford County, North Carolina, in which he reports, how he found people in great ignorance, — the form of Christianity was still to be found, — he hopes that he shall not work in vain, especially with the youth. A letter from the widow of the late Mr. C. Liitge, in which she asks for assistance. Pastor Philip Stock, of Chambersburg, in a letter to a member of the Ministerium (P. Goring), gives a good testimonial concerning her life ; but also states that she is in need. Mr. Ilgen's congregations, Penn's Valley, Brush, Lang's, Jungman's, Early's and Meetinghouse, in a letter, express their heartfelt gratitude, that the Ministerium gave them Mr. Ilgen, whom they praise very highly for his integrity. The letters concerning Rev. Mr. Schroder remained unread, as also a letter from Mr. Hong, who brings nine charges against Mr. Herbst. After the Ministerium had spent most of this afternoon in considera- tion and deliberation as to whether Special or District Conferences were to be held, and was convinced of their necessity and usefulness for the advancement of God's Kingdom and our Evangelical Church, it was finally decided and resolved, to divide our United Congregations into the following districts, in which a special meeting shall be held at least once a year at the places herein appointed. Resolved, That the congregations here mentioned and those united with them, are divided into the following districts : Districts : 1. Philadelphia, German town, Frankfurt, Cohen szy, North Wales, New Hanover, Pottsgrove, Vincent, Old and New Goshenhoppen. 2. Easton, Macungie, Saucon, Whitehead, Mesillum, Weisenburg. 3. Lancaster, New Holland, Manheim, Reading, Tulpehocken, Leb- anon and Harrisburg. 4. Yorktown, INIcAllister's, Taneytown, Paradise and Carlisle. 5. Baltimore, Fried richsstadt, Hagerstown, Green Castle and Cham- bersburg. 6. Western District. 7. Virginia. Resolved, That the members of the First District hold their Special Meeting on Thursday, October 29th, at Germantown ; the membei-s of the Second District shall hold their Special Meeting on the first Wed- nesday in November; that the members of the Third District hold their Special ^Meeting in Lancaster, on the first Wednesday in October ; that the members of the Fourth District hold their Special Meeting . . . that the members of the Fifth District hold their Special Meeting 320 DOCL'MENTAEY HISTORY. in Baltimore, on the second Wednesday in October ; that tlie members of the Sixth District . . . that the members from Virginia . . . About 6 o'clock the session was closed with prayer. In the eveniug, Pastor Goring, from Yorktown, preached in Zion's Church, on I Pet. 4: 18. Wednesday, June 3rd, a.m. At 9 o'clock the session was again opened Avith prayer in Zion's Church. The sermons of the candidates were read in part, and accompanied with remarks for the improvement of the understanding and the hearts of the writers. Mr. C. Obenhauss had neglected (without sufficient reason) to give the President of the Ministerium a sermon. Mr. Roller's was criticised, and he was told that if he continued to be diligent he might become a useful member. Several passages in JNIr. Forster's jour- nal were criticised. Mr. H. Geisenheiner, Mr. Hcrbst and ]\Ir. Jasin- sky read parts of their sermons, which were criticised. Candidate Eudres read a well-prepared sermon, which shows sufficiently that he exerts himself to grow in the knowledge of divine truth, and that he is able, also, to communicate it to others. The liceuses of the following candidates were renewed until the Synod of 1802 : ]\Iessrs. Endres, Lange, Berliu, Somerset County ; Mr. Jasinsky's, Mr. Steg's, Greensburg ; Mr. Grob's, Paradise ; Mr. Oben- hausen's, Mr. Herbst's, Carlisle ; Mr. Plitt's, Kew Holland ; jMr. Stock's, Sunsbury, Catawissa and Folmer's Church ; IMr. Fosters's, Mr. Roller's, ludianfield ; Mr. H. Geisenheiner's, Nicen's Church [Nice]. Concerning Mr. Eudres, it was unanimously Resolved, That Candidate Endres, after being examined, shall be or- dained at the next Synodical Meeting in Reading, if at that time he is serving congregations united with us. Rev. Mr. Schmidt, from Easton, made application to be received into the Ministerium. His application was considered with a good deal of hesitation. At 1 o'clock the session was closed with prayer. P.M., 3 o'clock. Opened with prayer. Mr. Schmidt, of Euston, was assured of the good feeling of the Min- isterium towards him, and he was told that because of the small number of ordained preachers still present, it was not considered advisable to decide concerning his admission. The ^linistcrium took up a free will oilering, which was given, partly to Mr. August Schmidt, partly to Mr. Carl Stock. FIFTY-FOURTH CONVENTION, 1801. 821 [Because of certain circumsLauces, Mr. Carl Stack's license was once more renewed.] The President handed their licenses to the candidates present, as the Ministerial Order, Cap. 7, § VII, 2, requires, and admonished them not to leave the congregations entrusted to them without the knowledge of the Ministerium. They promised in the presence of God hy words and the giving of their hand to fulfill their duties. The mandatorii (attorneys) of the Director, Mr. , of the Orphan House in Halle, distributed to the preachers present of the in- terest of the Rodelheim Legacy, five dollars to each. The meeting was closed with prayer and the singing of a hymn. May the Great Shepherd bless all these transactions to the glory of His name and the increase of Christian piety. In the evening Pastor MoUer, of Harrisburg, preached. The congregation in Philadelphia was thanked in the name of the Ministerium for its kind reception and entertainment. But for the members of the Ministerium the blessing of God upon their labors in the Lord's vineyard [was asked]. JoH. Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. President. 21 Friedrich D. Schafer, P. t. Secretary. FIFTY-FIFTH CONVENTION. 1802. (SXTNDAY, JUiJE 13tH.) ACTS OF THE SYNODICAL MEETING. Held at Reading, June 13th, 14rii, 15tu and IGth, in the Yeak of Chkist, 1802. In the forenoon President Schmidt preached in the Evangelical Lutheran Church, on I Cor. 1: 23, 24; in the afternoon, candidate Moeller, on Luke 15 : 2 ; in the evening, candidate Eudress, on Is. 53 ; 1-3. Monday, Junk 14th, am. At 9 o'clock the ministers and delegates assembled in the church, and tlie Synod was opened with prayer. Ministers present Avere : 1. Ordained Preachers. Mr. Emanuel Schulz, Senior Minister, from Tulpehocken. " J- Friedrich Schmidt, | ^^^^ Philadelphia. " H. Christian Helmuth, Th.D., J ^ " Heinrich Muhlenberg, Th.U., from Lancaster. " Conrad Fr. Wildbahn, from Guinet, Montgomery County, Penn- sylvania. " Daniel Schroter, from Hanover, Pennsylvania. " Daniel Lehman, from Misillum. " Fried. Valentin Melsheimer, from Hanover, Pennsylvania. " Daniel Kurz, from Baltimore. " Friedrich D. Schiifer, from Germantown. " David Jung, from Daneytown, INIaryland. " Friedricli Geisenheiner, from New Hanover. " George Lochmann, from Lebanon. " J. George Schmucker, from Hagorstown. " Andreas Scluilz, from "Womolsdorf " Conrad Jiiger, from Hanover Township, Northampton County. 822 FIFTY-FIFTH CONVENTION, 1802. 323 2. Licensed Candidates Present. Mr. Christian Eudress, from Easton. " Caspar Diehl, from "Whitehall, Northampton County. " J. Georg Roller, from Indienfield. " Wilhelm Forster, from Rockingham, Shenandoah, Virginia. " Johannes Foltz, from Rockingham, Virginia, " Johannes Grob, from Paradise Township, York County. " Johannes Rothrauf, from Greencastle, Pennsylvania. " Johannes Herbst, from Mittelburg, " " Joh. Fried rich Obenhauss, from Weissenburg, " " Heinrich Geisenheimer, from Chester County, " " Wilhelm Ilgen, from Northumberland County, " " Friedrich Jasinsky, from Shepherdsburg, Virginia. " Carl Stock, from Sunbury, Pennsylvania. " Johannes Plitt, from New Holland, Pennsylvania, and Mr. Moeller. Delegates with Credentials. Mr. Georg A. Becker,) ^ -r>, ., ■, ■, i- ^ ^^ , ' y ii-om Philadelphia. " G. Bantleon, J ^ " Peter Brua, from Tulpehocken. " Peter Buss, from Mr. Schruter's four congregations. " Heinrich Beck, from Germautown. " Johannes Reichert, from New Hanover. " C. Hofman, from Lebanon. " Joh. Weis, from Hagerstown. " Caspar Ritter, from Hanover Township. ** Friedrich Geinmer, from Easton. " Christian Schmid, from Indienfield. " Adam Reger, from Mittelburg. " Georg Diery, from AVeisen's [Nice] Church, Chester County. " Peter Schweitzer, from New Holland. Two delegates from this place (Reading, which is at present without a pastor) Avere present. On motion, it was Resolved, that one delegate from Reading shall have a seat and vote in our Sy nodical Meeting. Delegates from Residing, Messrs. Friedrich Schmidt and Johannes Strohhecker. The election of officers was held ; Pastor Schmidt was elected Presi- dent, and Friedrich D. Schafer, Secretary. Hereupon the papers were handed in, some twenty in number. Absent ministers who sent written excuse : — Mr. Heinrich Moller 324 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY. [the original name here seems to have been Christian Streit, which was erased and changed] ; Mr. Jacob Goring ; Mr. Geurg Fh)hr, Wythe County, Virginia ; Mr. Georg Griiber, Mitteltown, Maryhxnd ; Mr. Johan- nes Stanch, Fayette County ; Mr. Michael Steck, Greensburg, Westmore- land County, Pennsylvania ; ^Ir. Wilhelm Zimmerman (Carpenter) ; Adolph Spindler ; Mr. Wilhelm Lange ; Peter Benz (is sick). The congregation at Lancaster wrote to excuse itself, because it sent no delegate to this year's Synodical Meeting, but wished God's blessing upon its deliberations. Similar letters were also received by the Synod from other congre- gations. No. 14. P. Moeller's letter of excuse and farewell was read. He very much desires that Harrisburg (which, through his removal, is left without a preacher) may soon be sujiplied again. The Protocol of the last Synodical ISIeeting was read. Reports of Special Meetings Avere handed in. The Protocol of the Special Con- ference of the First District, held at Germantown ; further of the Second, held in Northampton ; of tlie Third, held at Tulpehocken ; of the Fourth; of the Fifth, of which Pastor Kurz made verbal report. Paper No. 1 was read. The congregations at Maytown, Middletown and Elizabethtown ask for a pastor. The Synod deliberated as to how these congregations might be assisted ; but no formal decision was reached. No. 2. A letter from Emmetstown was read. The forenoon session was closed with prayer. Monday, June Hth, p.m., at 3 o'clock. Opened with prayer. No. 1. In reference to Emmetstown the Synodical IMeeting Resolved, that the said congregation be only recommended to follow the advice given by the Special Conference. Concerning Harrisburg, it was Resolved, The congregation at Harris- burg, and those united with it, are advised to apply to any preacher of the Ministerium, and call him as their pastor, and that they be inlbrmcd that Rev. Jung and Candidate Geisenheiuer wt)uld visit them and preach for them. * Concerning No. 1, it was also Resolved, that to the congregation at Manheim, and those united with it, the same advice be given as to the congregation at Harrisburg. Copies of the above resolutions were dispatched to the respective congregations. Concerning FIFTY-FIFTK CONVENTION, 1802. 325 No. 3. Resolved, That the Synod considers it advisable to leave the affiirs of Ziou's church in Pikelaud in statu quo, this time. No. 4. Concerning Schuster's church : Resolved, That it be left to Mr. Grob to treat the matter (concerning the church mentioned and No. 13, concerning Sattler's) as he found best. No. 7. A letter from Shepherdstown was read, and (No. 17) one from Fi'iedrichtown, which refers to the former. No. 10. Testimonials for Mr. Stock from Catawissa and Muncy were read. No. 11. A letter from Scherer's congregation in Letterkenny Town- ship, Franklin County, was read. No. 22. Concerning Chambersburg, it was Resolved, that Candidate Moeller shall preach a trial sermon in Chambersburg and Shippensburg. No. 13. A letter from Huntingdon was read, in which they asked urgently for a preacher. No. 15 was read, in which the congregation in Braunschweig Town- ship petitions that a certain INIr. Daniel George Schafer be received. At 6 o'clock the session was closed with prayer. In the evening Mr. Jasinsky preached on INIatt. 7 : 13, 14. Tuesday, June 15th. The forenoon session was opened with prayer by Sen. Schulze. Since President Schmidt could not be present owing to indisposition, Dr. Hel- muth was chosen President p. t. Regarding No. 13, it was Resolved, That if any member of the Minis- terium wishes to visit those parts, one or other of the officers of the Ministerium give him a few lines ; and if no one can pay them a visit, that a fraternal answer be sent them in writing. Concerning No. 3, the decision reached was approved by the dele- gates of Zion's church in Chester County. The preachers handed in the number of baptized, confirmed, com- municants and deceased in the congregations, as follows : Con- Communi- De- Names of the Preachers. Congregations. Baptisms, firmed. cants. ceased. Schools Dr. Helrauth ) _,. ., , , ,. ^^„ .,„„ rro-i -,r,c^ MSI 'dt I ' • Pl^iladelphia . 307 108 781 168 — Dr. Miihlenberg . . Lancaster . . 185 66 551 37 1 Schulze, Setj. | _ ^ ^^3 ^^ 870 35 - Andr. Schulze j Goring — — — — — — Kurz Baltimore. . 165 23 273 86 1 Lehman 7 142 78 626 69 7 326 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Con- Communl- De- Names of the Preachers. Congregations. Baptisms, firmed, cants. ceased. Schools Melsheimer .... 5 105 75 324 13 4 Sclnifer Germantown. 129 18 223 49 1 Jung 4 42 70 179 12 — Lochman 7 179 65 736 32 6 Schroder 4 160 80 490 19 2 Fr. Geisenheiuer . . 3 125 58 536 36 — Schmucker .... 5 1^26 } ^^ ^^^ ^^ ^ Jager 4 125 72 631 50 4 Endress(in6months) 6 146 124 396 17 7 Rothrauf 7 107 70 334 16 5 Forster 4 70 — 283 — 5 J. Foltz 4 96 62 196 16 4 Diehl 4 86 34 497 34 2 Plitt 3 79 45 354 21 3 Obenhauss 7 407 129 1417 51 5 Roller 3 141 92 682 39 4 Grob 5 73 55 73 7 4 Graber — 114 35 248 10 2 H. Geisenlieiner . . 2 46 37 116 16 1 Herbst 7 120 84 313 36 4 GeorgFlohr ... — 131 38 184 8 — M. Stock 4 1098 31 4035 18 — Jasinsky 3 69 10 62 6 1 Stock 3 87 . 56 87 3 — Moller (now without a charge) .... 2 134 38 127 28 2 It was then resolved, that each minister give a brief account of the internal and external condition of his congregation. In accordance with this resolution, the pastors present reported verbally concerning their respective congregations ; the Synodical Meeting was moved to thank and praise the Lord, whose grace we have until now experienced, and for the continuation and increase of which we are in duty bound humbly to pray to Him. In closing the Synodical Meeting, it was decided by ballot, that the next Synodical Meeting should be held at Baltimore ou the Festival of the Trinity. Finally a prayer was offered and a stanza sung. FIFTY-FIFTH CONVENTION, 1802. 327 MINISTERIAL MEETING. Tuesday, June 15th. 3 o'clock p.m. Opened with prayer. President Schmidt had, to some extent, recov- ered from his indisposition, so that he could again attend the session. Several resolutions concerning Friedrichsto^vn and Reading were drawn up and passed. For the latter place Mr. Jasinsky was proposed and recommended, for the former Mr. Grob. But the delegate from Fried richstown was unwilling to accept the decision of the ]\Iinisterium as to their congregation, as they expected to receive Mr. Jasinsky as their pastor, for whom they had made written request. APPLICANTS. 1. Mr. Schmidt, from Easton. 2. Georg Buttler, with testimonials. 3. Friedrich Sanno, from Seller's [Leller's], Tinicum, and Springfield congregations, with testimonials [No. 18]. 4. Daniel George Schiifer, in accordance with a resolution of last year, and this time with testimonials [No. 15]. 5. Andreas Almes. Then the Protocol of the Special Conference (of the York District) was read, for the sake of investigating the charges against Rev. Schroter. Several other papers were read [No. 5] ; one from Adam Mentz, who based his testimony upon the declaration of his wife, who died nine years ago ; the second signed by a woman who likewise bases her testimony on the declaration of the deceased lady just mentioned. A third of the same contents, based on the same declaration. A fourth signed by one Michael Ulz, most probably to accuse him of gossiping, or whatever one might call it. The fifth, an afiidavit signed by Carl Schwartz, who some years ago argued with Mr. Schroter on Scripture, and especially of the article of the descent of Christ into hell ; this theological discussion was of so much value, that the said C S. has lately sworn that Mr. Schroter had said, " that there was no hell." Then the testimonials from four congregations of Mr. Schroter in defence of his innocence were read. Tliere were, however, several papers with names attached, which seemed strange to the Ministerium ; but an explanation was made by Mr. Schroter, which, however, was not satisfactory to the Ministerium. Then Mr. Schroter's former defense was read. On motion it was Re- solved that Mr. Schroter, as the accused, and his accusers, withdraw for 328 DOCmiENTARY HISTORY. a moment, that the Ministerium might deliberate concerning the ac- cusations and the defense. The Ministerium did not yet reach a deci- sion in this matter. At six o'clock the session was closed with prayer. In the evening Rev. Mr. Lochman preached in English on I Cor. 2: 11. Wednesday, June 16th. In the forenoon, at 9 o'clock, the session was opened with prayer. The affiurs of the Fried richstown congregation again came up. In ref- erence to them it was Resolved to send to them the decisions concerning them and the Red. congregation, together with a friendly letter of ex- planation — but the delegate refused to accept this letter and the resolu- tions. Mr. Schroter's affairs were then discussed, and it was Resolved, That the Ministerium regards jNIr. D. Schroter unworthy of being a member of the Ministerium until fruits meet for repentance be shown, in which case the Ministerium will not hesitate to receive him again with open arms. Concerning a certain Mr. Mockenhaupt, it was resolved that Mr. Mockenhaupt's license be not renewed. No. 9. A petition from Schoolmaster Benedict Neidlinger, in "Weisen- burg, was read. This man is in one of Mr. Obenhauss' congregations ; therefore that gentleman was advised to attend to it, that the township in which Mr. Niedlinger lives take care of its poor. Several very favorable testimonials concerning Mr. Obenhauss were read. Rev. Messrs. Lehman, Jager and Diehl brought up several points, concerning which Mr. Obenhauss gave satisfactory explanations. They appeared mostly to rest on misunderstandings. / Candidate Endress expressed the desire that his ordination (which was resolved upon last year already) be postponed another year. The resolution of the Ministerium was read to Mr. Schroter. Candidate Diehl requested to be ordained. The candidates handed in their sermons and journals ; also their licenses. Candidate Endress, journal, I sermon, ct license. Riiller, " Geisenheiner, diarium, 1 sermon, et license. Diehl, Herbst, " 1 " " Obenhauss, 1 " " Forater, " FIFTY-FIFTH CONVENTION, 1802. 329 Candidate Jasinsky, diarium, 1 sermon, et license. Stock, 1 Rothrauf, 1 Plitt, 1 J. Foltz, Grob, 1 Ilgen, Griiber, 1 The ordained preachers were divided into committees to examine the papers of the candidates [according to the constitution. C. 7, § 5]. It was moved and Resolved that the JMinisterium permit JMr. Jusinsky to accept a call to Friedrichstown (A copy of this resolution was given to the delegate from Friedrichstown). At 1 o'clock the forenoon session was closed with prayer. Wednesday, June 16th, afternoon, 3 o'clock. The session was opened with prayer. By order of the Ministerium the resolution concerning Mr. Schroter was handed to Mr. Wohlfarth, Esq. Concerning Mr. Schmidt, from Easton, Resolved that the Ministerium cannot have anything to do with him. Mr. Almes was given the answer that he should in the future be faithful, diligent and conscientious. Mr. Butler, Daniel Schafer and Friedrich Sanno were examined by Doctors Helmuth, Muhlenberg and Melsheimer. The ordained preachers who had read the sermons of the candidates reported on them, and read parts of several sermons, which were again criticised. The committee which had been named to examine the applicants made a favorable report ; whereupon it was Resolved to receive Mr. G. Buttler and license him as a candidate ; further, to receive Mr. Daniel George Schafer as catechist, and that he be under the supervision of Pastor Lehman ; further, to receive INIr. Friedrich Sanno as catechist, and that he be under the supervision of Pastor Schiifer. Resolved, To ordain the following gentlemen : Mr. Christian Endress, from Easton ; ]\Ir. Johannes Rothrauf, from Greencastle ; jNIr. Johann Plitt, from New Holland ; ^Mr. Willielra Forster, from Shenandoah ; Mr. Johannes Foltz, from Rockingham, Virginia ; Mr. Johann Caspar Diehl, from the Jordan. Then the ordination certificates were prepared and the licenses re- newed. 330 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. A member stated that Mr. Hubley had asked him to request the Ministerium that the Reading congregation (as long as it is vacant) be now and then favored with a sermon. When the question was laid be- fore them eleven pastors promised to preach at Reading. The Ministerial jNIeeting was closed with devout prayer and the sing- ing of a stanza of a hymn. Because of the ordination still to be performed, service was held in the evening, and all the pastors yet present attended. The above-mentioned candidates, Endress, Rothrauf, Forster, Foltz, Plitt and Diehl were ordained by the President, Mr. Schmidt, assisted by Sen. Schulze and Dr. Helmuth, with prayer and the laying on of hands, and their certificates of ordination were handed to them. Like- wise Messrs. Buttler, Daniel Schiifer and Fried rich Sanno, the latter two as catechists, the former as candidate, together with the other candi- dates, were admonished of their duties and their licenses handed to them. Pastor Jung afterwards delivered a brief address on I Pe. 2 : 24. After the sermon, Dr. Helmuth standing before the altar, thanked the congregation for their kind reception and entertainment of the preachers ; encouraged the latter also to be faithful in the service of the Lord, and closed with a devout prayer. This afternoon the mandatorii (attorneys) distributed of the interest of the legacy among the teachers, five dollars to each. J. Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. President. Friedrich D. Schafer, P. t. Secretary. FIFTY-SIXTH CONVENTION. 1803. SYNODICAL MEETING. Held at Baltimore, June 5th, the Festival, of the Trinity, 1803. The Ministers arrived at the place of meeting on the day previous ; and in the evening (June 4th), Pastor Friedrich D. Schiifer, preached in the Lutheran Church on Matth. 7 : 21. Sunday, June 5th. Festival of the Trinity. The following pastors preached : In the forenoon, President Schmidt preached in the Lutheran Church, on John 15 : 16-21 ; Dr. Muhlenberg in the new Reformed Church, on Acts 16: 31; Pastor Goring in Mr. Otterbein's, on John 3 : 36. In the afternoon. Pastor Geisenheiner in the Lutheran Church, on Tit. 2: 11-14. Pastor Endress in the new Reformed Church, on II Cor. 4 : 17. In the evening. Dr. Helmuth in the Lutheran Church, on Matth. 9.: 13. Monday, June 6th, a.m. The President opened the session with prayer. 1. Ministers Present and Ordained Preachers. Pastor Schmidt, | ^^^ Philadelphia. Dr. Helmuth, J ^ Dr. Miihleuberg, from Lancaster. C. Streit, from Winchester. J. Goring, from York. V. Melsheiraer, from Hanover. Dr. Kurz, from Baltimore. Friedrich D. Schiifer, from Germantown. Dr. Zimmerman (alias Carpenter), from Culpepper, Virginia. Friedrich Geisenheiner, from New Hanover. George Loclimann, from Lebanon. 331 832 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. J. Ruthrauf, from Green Castle. Christian Endress, from Easton. Willi. Forster, from JSlienandoah, Virginia. Johann Plitt, from New Holland. Licensed Candidates. Joh. Grob, from Paradise, Pennsylvania. George Griiber, from jMitteltown, Virginia. Adolph Spindler, from Augusta County; Virginia. J. Herbst, from Mittelcrieck, Northumberland County. Heinrich Geisenheiner, from Chester County. George Flohr, from Wythe County, Virginia. Friedrich Jasinsky, from Friedrichstown. Fr. Moeller, from Chamberstown. George Buttler, from Greenville, Botetourt County, Virginia. Muhlenberg, Jun., from Reading. Scriba. Catechists. Friedrich Sanno, from Bedminster. Daniel Georg Schiifer, from Penn Township, Northumberland County. Delegates. Mr. Georg Wolpper, | ^^^^ Philadelphia. Andr. Geyer, Jun., ) Joh. Miiller, from Lancaster. Adam Griiber, from Yorktown. Friedrich Brendel,from Baltimore. Joh. Bardt, from Green Castle. Abrah. Horn, from Easttown. Philipp Derr, from Mitteltown. Andr. Bogen, from Fried richsstadt. Ph. Scholl, from Chambersburg. Ludwig Kesselring, from Daneytown. The other congregations from which no delegates were present, had themselves excused, some in writing, but otiiers verbally by their resixjc- tive pastors, to wit : Lancaster, Hanover, Germantowu, New Hanover, New Holland, Chester, Mittelcrieck, Wythe County and Greenville. Hereupon the election of ofliccrs was held, and Pastor Schmidt, of Philadelphia, was elected President, and Pastor Friedrich D. Schiifer, of Germantown, Secretary. Then the papers were handed in. 1. A paper from Tuscarora Valley ; 2. A paper from Woodbury, FIFTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1803. 333 Mar}'land ; 3. A paper from Stelzen's Church, Maryland ; 4. A paper from Jerusalem Church, etc. ; 5. A paper from Mauheim Towuship, York County ; 6. A paper from Carlisle ; 7. A paper from Huntingdon ; 8. A paper from Bleymeyers ; 9. A paper from Hummelstown ; 10- A paper from Harrisburg; 11. A paper from Pine Grove, Bucks County; 12. A paper from Mr. V. Stock; 13. A paper from Seb. Folz; 14. A paper from " Blauberger " Congregation ; 15. A paper from Mr. P. Hinckel ; 16. A pa})er from Mr. Schewe ; 17. A paper from Chanceford ; had made verbal request for a preacher, through Dr. Muhlenberg ; 18. A paper from Pikeland ; 19. A paper from Mr. Steck, Westmoreland County ; 20. A paper from Dover Township, York County. The letters of excuse were, in part, read, and were from Mr. Stock, Mr. P. Hinckel, Mr. J. Stauch, Mr. J. Schmucker. Mr. Obenhauss, Mr. Diehl, Mr. Roeller were orally excused. The Protocol of the last Synodical Meeting was read. Protocols of Special Conferences were ])resented, and, in part, read. After the reading of that of the First District, it was Resolved, That each Special Conference shall, at the end of its session, determine when and where the session shall be held next year. After the reading of that of the Second District, in which serious charges are made against several of the preachers, it was Resolved, That the matter regarding Mr. Obenhausen be postjioned until the next Synodical Meeting. A Protocol of the Third District, and that of the District Meeting in Virginia, which was printed, were read. The papers for the Synodical Meeting were read, their contents weighed, and the following resolutions made regarding them : No. 1. Concerning Tuscarora Valley, Mifflinburg and Lewisburg, which desire a teacher, Resolved, That if any member of the Ministeriiuu feels inclined to accept a call from these congregations, he shall inform the President to-day. Concerning No. 2. Resolved, That the Ministerium grant Mr. Jasinsky, in Friedrichsstadt, permission to serve the congregation at Woodsbury (in Maryland). No. 3 was read, and it was considered more appropriate to decide concerning its contents in the Ministerial Meeting. About one o'clock the session was closed with prayer. Monday, June 6th, p.m., at 3 o'clock. The session was opened with prayer. No. 4. A paper from the Jerusalem's Church was read. No. 5. A paper from Manheim Township, York County, was read, and 334 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. thereupon Besolved,Tha.t if any member of the Miuisterium felt inclined to accept said congregation, he should inform the President privately. No. 6. A letter from Carlisle was read ; this congregation also desires a preacher, and, in particular, Mr. Sanno. No. 7. A letter from Huntingdon was read. This congregation re- ports that ]\Ir. Scheeve was not able to correct the erring, to comfort the afflicted, etc. ; otherwise he had conducted himself in a proper way. They therefore petition for a pastor who knows Christ. This paper was accom- panied by one from the Union congregation. Re,- Philadelphia Helmuth . . j ^ Muhlenberg . . . Lancaster . Streit Winchester Goring York . . . Melsheimer . . . Hanover . Kurz Baltimore . Fr. Schiifer . . . Germantown Carpenter .... Culpepper . Fr. Geisenheiner . New Hanover Loch man .... Lebanon . Rothrauf .... Greencastle Endress .... Easton . . Plitt New Holland Forster Shenandoah Grob Paradise . Graber Mitteltown Spindler Augusta . Herbst Mittelcreek H. Geisenheiner . Chester County Flohr Wythe County Jasinsky .... Friedrichstown Moeller Chambersburg , Buttler Greenville . . . Muhlenberg, Jun. . Reading . . Schmucker . . . Hagerstown . , Lange . . . . . Berlin . . . . Steck Greensburg . Stock Catawissa . . , Scriba , Sanno Bed minster . Dan. Schiifer . . . Braunschweig . Bap- Con- Commu- De- tized. firmed, nieants. ceased. Schools 308 130 822 233 3 49 26 201 174 87 228 120 82 199 110 246 131 69 109 82 50 115 58 113 153 76 36 37 315 15 176 139 158 647 79 720 40 301 77 502 58 483 28 245 79 470 55 181 64 235 75 365 27 209 64 221 46 167 37 95 10 37 158 53 384 220 84 253 208 87 408 57 30 68 63 — 42 — 38 15 19 27 16 26 50 14 46 28 3 11 13 10 27 15 13 54 26 39 13 30 — 15 — 33 4 1 A- 336 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. The committee which had investigated the charges against the Cate- chist, Mr. Daniel Schiifer, brought in its report, and proposed the following resolution, which was aj^proved : Resolved, That we do not find the accusation against Mr. George Daniel Schiifer proven (according to which he is said to have used some frivolous expressions in his boarding-house at Reading, in 1802). His written testimony, etc., made such exjDlanation of the matter, that we see no evil meaning in his expressions. Nevertheless, we advise that he be granted permission to leave the Zion's congregation. [A communication from the Zion's Congregation to the ^linisterium reports that a majority of the above congregation has already dismissed Mr. Daniel Schiifer, and never again wishes to have him as their preacher ; in case he was forced upon them the congregation would be be brought into the greatest confusion. They ask the Ministerium to give them as their pastor Mr. Knoske, who is pure in his teaching and unblamable in life.] Hereupon the election was held. The Festival Trinitatis was appointed as the time, and Germantown as the place of the next Sjnodical Meeting. About six o'clock the Synodical Meeting was closed with prayer and the delegates dismissed. In the evening preached. MINISTERIAL MEETING. Tuesday, Juxe 7tii, a.m. The Ministerial Meeting was opened with prayer. Mr. Jacob Weigel, from York County, brought a complaint against Pastor Melsheimer that he had married his son, Georg Weigel, to a woman already married. Hereupon a committee was named — by the President, INIessrs. G. Geisenheiner and Plitt ; by the accuser, Dr. Helmuth — to investigate the above accusation and report on it. The committee handed in its report, which was discussed, and resolved to further deliberate upon it, and decide the matter this aftei'noon. Oral request was then made that Mr Herbst be permitted to visit the Fissels, congregation this fall. Resolved, Tliat INIr. Herbst be permitted to comply with the request of the said congregation and those united with it. A delegate from the congregation in Tuscarora Valley [No. 1] made oral request for u pastor. FIFTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1803. 837 Resolved, That Mr. Scriba [vtIio had come from Germany in the pre- ceding fall as a theological candidate, furnished with good testimonials, also had been licensed by the officers of the Ministerium, and had been stationed as preacher at Reading until Easter] be recommended to visit Tuscarora, etc. Concerning No. 6, it was Resolved, That the Catechist Mr. Sanno pay a visit to Carlisle, etc, and if he receive a call from the said congi'ega- tions, the officers give him permission to accept the call, and to this end grant him a full license. Applicants. Mr. Knoske, who until now has preached to the congregations at Jacob's, Salem's, and Pinegrove Churches, requests to be admitted into the Ministerium. Mr. Rekman. — A congregation in York Township, as also that at Oberbermudien, and at Steltzen's church [No. 3], made written request that he be received. Mr. Sebastian Voltz [No. 13]. — Two congregations in Rockingham County [where Mr. Voltz has preached for seven years already], that of Emanuel's church in Augusta County, and that of Rockfish Gap in Amherst County, made very earnest request in their letters that this good man be received. Mr. Andreas Alms. P. Ernst [who has been stationed in New York State as preacher for several years] asked whether, in the future, he should consider himself a member of the Ministerium ? Resolved, That the decision be postponed. The candidates and catechists then handed in their journals, etc. Sermons. Journals. Mr. Grob 1 — " Spindler 1 1 " G. I. Flohr 1 — " Griiber 1 — " Herbst 1 — " H. Geisenheiner 1 — " G. Buttler 2 1 " Jasinsky 1 — " JNIiihlenberg, Jun 1 1 " Sanno 2 — " Moller 1 — " Dan. Schafer 1 — " Scriba 2* — ^ Outlines. 22 338 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. The ordained preachers were divided into four coraraittees, to look over the sermons, etc., examine the applicants, and make report of it. Committee 1. Dr. Helmuth, Streit and Plitt. 2. Dr. Miihlenberg, Carpenter and Endress. 3. P. Goring, Kurz and Fr. Geisenheiner. 4. P. ]\Ielsheimer, Lochman and Rothrauf. At 1 o'clock the session was closed with prayer Tuesday, June 7th, p.m., 3 o'clock. Session was opened with prayer. The committees, one after the other, made verbal reports, which were discussed. Mr. Weinland, from Pottsgrove, appeared before the Ministerium and requested to be received. After conscientious consideration of this request, it was Resolved, That at the present we find too many scruples to be able to grant his request and desire. This resolution was handed to Mr. Weinland in writing. Concerning Mr. Ernst, who had declared before the Assembly, that he would not again attend a lodge, the question was asked : Shall Mr. Ernst be regarded as a member of the Ministerium ? Four j^reachers answered, Yes ; one, Ko ; the others remained silent. The question was then put, whether candidates were to be ordained ? Answer, Yes. Of the gentlemen proposed for ordination, the following had two- thirds of the ordained preachers present in their favor [two-thirds of the previously ordained preachers voted for their ordination, Constitu- tion, C. V., § 7] : Mr. Georg Flohr, from Wythe County, Virginia ; Adolph Spindler, from Augusta County, Virginia ; J. Grob, from York County, Penn- sylvania. Resolved, That they be ordained in the church this evening. The licenses of the remaining candidates were renewed, likewise those of the catechists, Fr. Sanno and Georg Daniel Schiifer. Concerning Mr. Knoske, Resolved, That he be granted a full license. Concerning Mr. Rehman, Resolved, That he be received as catechist, and be under the supervision of Pastor IMelsheimer. Mr. S. Voltz was advised to make use of the instruction of some preacher for some time. Concerning Mr. Schewe, who, according to No. 7, docs not want to have any association with farmers, and yet cannot be of use in the town of Huntingdon, it was FIFTY-SIXTH CONVENTION, 1803. 339 Besolved, That his request (to be received) cannot be complied with. The same was resolved concerning Andr. Alms. Concerning No. 10. The Ministerium is not disposed to send a com- mission to Harrisburg to examine and ordain the supplicant. The certificates of ordination were now prepared. Pastor Friedrich D. Schafer, from Germantown, stated to the Minis- terium, that since yesterday he had learned that the pastor from Easton, for more than one reason, wished that the next Synodical Meet- ing could have been held at that place, and, since the circumstances of the pastor and congregation at Easton, as they at present are, had be- come more fuUy known to him, Pastor Schafer was willing that the next Synodical Meeting be held at Easton ; in the well-grounded hope, how- ever, that it would afterwards be held at Germantown. Several pastors promised, D. V., then to vote for Germantown. It was then Resolved, That the next Synodical Meeting should be held at Easton on Trinity Sunday, The Mandatorii distributed of the interest five dollars to each minister. The President closed the ministerial session with a hearty prayer. In the evening the Candidates, G. Flohr, A. Spindler and J. Grob, were solemnly ordained to the office of the ministry by President Schmidt, assisted by Drs. Helmuth and Muhlenberg. This is witnessed by J. Friedrich Schmidt, P. t. President. Friedrich D. Schafer, P. t. Secretary. FIFTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION 1804. Tkansactions of the Evaxgelicax Lijtherai^: Synodicai. Meeting held AT Easton, May 27th to 29th, 1804. On Sunday, May 27th, Rev. Mr. Schmidt, the President, preached an edifying sermon in the forenoon, on Rom. 1 : 16. Doctor Miihlen- berg preached in the afternoon on Apoc. 2 : 3, and Doctor Helmuth in the evening on Isa. 12 : 3. Monday, May 28th, a.m. The public sessions of the Synod began. The preachers present were the following : Ordained Preachers. Doctor Helmuth, from Philadelphia. Rev. Mr. Schmidt, from Philadelphia. Doctor Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. Rev. Mr. Goring, from Yorktown. " Schafer, from Germantown. " Geisenheiner, from New Hanover. " Lochman, from Lebanon. " Schmucker, from Hagerstown. " Andreas Schulze, from "Womelsdorf. " Jager, from Hanover Township. " Endress, from Easton. " Dill, from Whitehall. " Plitt, from New Holland. " Forster, from Shenandoah. Licensed Candidates. Mr. Stauch, from Fayette County. " Obenhausen, from "Weissenburg. " Graber, from Mitteltown. " Heinrich Geisenheiner, from "Vincent Township. " Roller, from Goshenhoppen. " Jasinsky, i'rom Friedrichstadt. 840 FIFTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1804. 341 Mr. Ilgen, from Aaronsburg. " Muhlenberg, from Reading. " Buttler, from Greenville. Catechist. Mr. Conrad Riemann, from York County. Delegates Present. Messrs. Joliann L. Wagner and Jobann Lang, from Philadelphia. Mr. Friedrich Horn, from Yorktown. " Georg Hacker, from Germantown. " Heinrich Heist, from New Hanover. " Jacob Bucher, from Lebanon. ** Leonhardt Kuhn, from Hagerstown. " Michael Huber, from Rev. Mr. Jager's congregations. " Michael Opp, from Easton. " Ludwig Slecher, from Fayette County. " Jacob Goring, from Mr. Roller's congregations. " Bernhardt Gilbert, from Friedrichstadt. " Philipp Moser, from Aaronsburg. " Friedrich Heller, from Reading. They proceeded to the election of officers, and by a majority of votes Doctor Helmuth was appointed President and Jacob Goring Secretary The various papers were handed in ; the absent ordained preachers and licensed candidates and their excuses were noted. The following excused themselves in writing : Mr. Johann Michael Steck. The letter of excuse was accompanied by a list of the communicants and baptized. Mr. Georg Flohr, Wythe County, in Virginia, also a list ; Mr. Friedrich Sanno, Carlisle, also a list ; Mr. Emanuel Schulze, Tulpehocken, with a list ; Mr. Daniel Leh- man, Missillum, with a list ; Mr. V. G. Stock, AVahner's Church ; Mr. Johann Rothrauf, Greencastle ; Mr. Johann Herbst, York County ; Mr. Knosky, Mr. Friedrich Moller, Chambersburg ; Mr. Christian Streit, Winchester, Virginia. This letter of excuse was also accom- panied by a list of the communicants and baptized. The following had themselves excused orally : Mr. Lange, Berlin ; Mr. Johann Grob, Taneytown. The Syuodical Protocol of last year was read ; also the reports of the Special Cotiferences. In the First District no meeting was held. Rev. Mr. Geisenheiner made excuse for the preachers belonging to it. In the Easton District a meeting was held ; the Protocol was read. 342 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. In the Lancaster District a meeting was held ; the Protocol was read. In the Yorktown District there was no meeting. It was to be held in Emmettstown, but no one appeared except Jacob Goring. In the Baltimore District the meeting was held in Mitteltown. The gen- tlemen belonging to it spent the time in the discussion of edifjaug subjects. In the Western District there was no meeting. In the Virginia District a meeting was held and its Protocol was read. Report was made of the death of our beloved brother, Mr. C. F. Wildbahn. The papers sent in were taken up for consideration. 1. Papers from Philadelphia. A controversy had arisen there in reference to English preaching in the German Church : Resolved, to hand the papers on this question to a committee of five, and that Messrs Schiifer, Lochmann, Endress, Horn and Hacker be that committee. The committee shall report in the afternoon. 2. A letter from Harrisburg, Dauphin County. A request that Mr. Petersen be received into the Ministerium. 3. A similar letter from ]\Iitteltown, Dauphin County. Both letters belong to the Ministerial Meeting. 4. A letter from Allen's Township, County. Petition for a preacher : Resolved, That this request be referred to a committee, and that Messrs. Jiiger and Geisenheiner be this committee. 5. Letters from Hamilton Township, Northampton County. Petition for a preacher : Resolved, That these writings also be handed to the last named committee. 6. A letter from Gwinett Township, Montgomery County. Petition for a preacher : Resolved, To hand this letter to Messrs. Geisenheiner and Schafer as a committee. A motion was now made and seconded : That the congregations in Allen's Township and Hamilton Township, Northampton County (Nos. 4, 5), be advised to apply to Mr. Dill. This motion was approved. 7. A letter from the so-called Keller's, Springfield, Nockamixon and Tinicum congregations in County. Petition that Mr. Johann Nicolaus Mensch be received into the Ministerium. This letter was re- ferred to the Ministerial Meeting. The session was closed with prayer. Monday, May 28th, p.m. 8. A letter from Pikeland Township, Chester County. Petition that Mr. Conrad Friedrich Plitt be received into the Ministerium. This letter was at the same time a call. Was referred to the ]\[inistcrial ]\Ieeting. 9. A letter from Salzburg Township, Northampton County. Cora- FIFTY-SEVENTH CONVENTION, 1804. 343 plaint that the congregation is without a preacher. Petition that Mr. Friedrich I'litt might serve them. Resolved, That this letter be referred to a committee, and that Mr. Jtiger and Mr. Dill be this committee. The report of the committee was, that this congregation be answered orally , and this report was approved. 10. A letter from Huntingdon, Huntingdon County. Petition that Mr. Griiber be permitted to accept this congregation, since Mr. Griiber had promised the congregation to do so, on the condition that the ]\Iin- isterium would permit it. Resolved, to hand this letter to ]\Iessrs. Jasinsky, Ilgen and Griiber, as a committee. 11. A letter from Greenville, Boutetourt County, in Virginia. A testimonial for Mr. Georg Buttler, and a petition for his ordination. Referred to the Ministerial Meeting. 12. A letter from various congregations in York County. Petition that Mr. Reimann be licensed. This letter was referred to the Minis- terial Meeting. 13. A letter from Columbiana County, in the State of Ohio. Peti- tion that Mr. Georg Simon be received into the Ministerium. Was referred to the Ministerial Meeting. 14. A letter from Chambersburg, Franklin County. A testimonial for Mr. Moller, and a petition that they might retain him as preacher. Was granted. 15. A letter from various congregations, served by Mr. Ilgen, contains a favorable testimonial for Mr. Ludwig Wilhelm Ilgen. Was approved. 16. A letter from the congregation on the Little Lecha, in Ma- cuntshy Township. Contains a favorable testimonial for Mr. J. F. Obenhaussen, and a petition that they may keep him as their preacher, and not be forced to join again with the congregations formerly united with them. Postponed until the next session. 17. A letter from Dr. Johann Christoph Kunze, in New York, together with documents relating to the Hart wig bequest. This letter is a model of Christian cordiality and of fraternal encouragement. It contains, among much else, also the following expressions, which need to be thought over : " A man, who otherwise has the knowledge essen- tially necessary for the office, is not indifferent to me now, if I know that he believes the catechism of Luther. Of our men on this side of the Hudson — I know no one, God be praised, who denies the Lord who has redeemed him. But it is nothing less than this that men are at present doing boldly in Germany, through pulpit, life and pen — w ho eat the bread of the Church. God preserve us, my dear brethren, in this sad time, from apostles coming from there!!'" Resolved, that Dr. Miihlenberg and ^ " Es ist mir ein Mann der uebrigens die dem Amte wesentlicli noetigen Kennt- 344 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Rev. Mr. Plitt be a committee, and this letter be given into their hands. The committee •which had considered the papers from Philadelphia (No 1) made the following report: "Your committee has duly con- sidered the matter referred to it, and begs leave to present the following points to the Synod : " It regrets the disturbance at present reigning in the beloved con- gregation, and wishes that the Lord of the Church Himself may look upon it, and graciously heal the wounds." " 2. It finds, after due deliberation, that it would be acting too hastily, if it passed judgment in this matter, since the congregation has a char- ter and Constitution, by which it must be guided, and furthermore, the Synod does not think itself justified to mix in the internal affairs of a congregation." This report was approved, and it was Resolved, That it shall be sent to those who wrote to the Ministerium. The committee which had taken into consideration the affairs of Huntingdon (No. 10), made the report: "Since Mr. Griiber cannot accept the congregation at Huntingdon, and as there is no other near by whom it could be served, the proposition is made: That the Min- isterium recommend for the place some one who is inclined to leave his congregation, or who at present has no congregation." This report was approved, and it was Resolved, That Mr. Griiber write to the congrega- tion at Huntingdon, and ask them to excuse him for not coming. Tlie session was closed with prayer. This evening, Rev. Mr. Schmucker preached. Tuesday, May 29Tn, a.m. 18. A letter from Paradise Township, York County. The congrega- tion requests that Mr. Herbst may serve it. Resolved, That the request of this congregation be granted. The Special Conference in the Lancaster District had recommended three plans to the. S3'^nod. 1. Concerning an institution for the education of young preachers. 2. Concerning the establishing of a Synodical Treasury. 3. Concerning traveling preachers. These plans Xvere considered item by item and approved. Thereupon the following resolutions were drawn up and adopted : nisse hat, jctzt nicht gleichtgueltig, wenn ich wciss, er plaubt den Katecliismus Lutliers— Von den unsrigen diesscit dem Hudson — Ich wciss von nicmaiid, gott- lob, der den Hern verlougnete, dor ilin crkaiift liat. Niclits geringort's aher als dies, ist es was jetzt Mcnsclien in Dcutschl:inrM i i i • -xi j i „ ^^.,.,^, . ' > Philadelphia, with a delegate. 3. J. Friedrich Schmidt, j ^ ^ 4. Dr. Henrich Muhlenberg, Lancaster, with a delegate. 5. Christian Streit, Winchester, without delegate and without ex- cuse. 6 Jacob Goering, Yorktown, with a delegate. 7. F. Val. ]Melzheimer, Hanover, without delegate and without ex- cuse. 8. Daniel Kurtz, Germantown, without delegate and without excuse. 9. F. David Schaeffer, Baltimore, without delegate and without excuse. 10. Paul Hiukel, New Market, without delegate and without excuse. 11. F. Wilhelm Geisenheiner, New Hanover. 12. Georg Lochmann, Lebanon. 13. Georg Schmucker, Hegerstadt. 373 374 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 14. C. Jiigcr, Hanover Township, without delegate and without ex- cuse. 15. Christian Endress, Easton. 16. Joh Carl Dill, "Whitehall, without delegate and without excuse. 17. Johannes Plitt, New Holland. 18. Johannes Grob, Taneytown. 19. Georg Kriiber, Middletown, without delegate, but with excuse. 20. Johannes Herbst, York County. 21. F. Wilhelm Jasinsky, Friedrichsstadt. 22. Johannes Roeller, without a delegate. 23. Heinrich Geisenheiner, Vincent Township, without a delegate and without excuse. 24. C. Wilhelm Ilgen. 25. Friedrich Moeller, Chambersburg. 26. Georg Buttler, Fort Cumberland, without delegate and with excuse. 27. Henrich Aug. Muhlenberg, Reading. Candidates Present "Were: 28. 1. Mr. Carl Stock, without delegate and with excuse. 29. 2. W. Henrich Scriba. 30. 3. Joh. Knoske. 31. 4. Joh. Conrad Walter. 32. 5. J. Paul Cramer. 33. 6. Friedrich Haas, without delegate and with excuse. 34. 7. J. Nicolaus Mensch. 35. 8. Conrad Riemann. 36. 9. Rev. Sanno came late, without delegate and without excuse. Delegates Present with Credentials. 1. Georg Krebs, from Philadelphia. 2. Friedrich Hekle, Philadelphia. 3. Jacob Stahl, Lancaster. 4. IMichael Moser, Lancaster, but without a vote. 5. Martin Ebert, York. 6. Valentin Beyer, New Hanover. 7. Georg Schcetzer, Lebanon. 8. Henrich Storzman, Hegcrstadt. 9. Friedrich Konig, Easton. 10. Jacob Ringwalt, New Holland. 11. Ludwig Kcsclring, Taneytown. 12. Conrad Schwartz, York County, etc. SIXTIETH CONVENTION, 1807. 375 13. Andreas Hetzler, Woodsbury. 14. Christian Spengler, Ilgen's congregations. 15. Job. Schneider, Chainbersburg. 16. Friedricb Fritz, Reading. 17. Jacob Hetzel, Knoske's congregations. 18. Bernhard Eberhard, Mr. Walter's congregations. 19. Peter Lindemuth, Maytowu. 20. Christoph Keller, Mr, Mensch's congregation. 21. Henrich Berkheimer, Riemann's congregation. Total ordained preachers, 28; candidates, 8; delegates, 21. The following preachers and candidates sent letters of excuse : 1. Dr. Kuntze, of New York ; 2. Mr. Staucb, from Ohio, also sent his journal as traveling preacher; 3. David Kesler excused himself; 4. Mr. Roth- rauff excused himself. Preachers absent were: 1. Mr. Petersen excused; 2. Rev. Mr. Leb- man, without excuse ; 3. Mr. Zimmerman, without excuse ; 4. Mr. Spindler. The election of officers was held — Jacob Goering was elected Presi- dent ; Daniel Kurtz, Secretary ; F. Schmidt, Treasurer. Hereupon the following papers were handed in, and the Protocol of the preceding year was read. 1. A letter from Dr. Kuntze, of New York. 2. A letter from Rockingham, Virginia. 3. A letter from North Carolina. 4. A letter from Mr. Steck. 5. A letter from the Johannes Church. 6. A letter from Abbetstown. 7. A letter from Loudon County, Virginia. 8. An address from Philadelphia. 9. A letter from Woodsbury. 10. Johannes Keller announced that he had a private matter to bring up. 11. A letter from Friedrichsstadt. 12. A letter from Maytown. 13. Letters from Wood-Coch Valley testify to tbeir satisfaction with Mr. Haas. 14. A letter from the State of Ohio requests for a visit by traveling preachers. 15. A letter from Rev. Mr. Rothrauff. 16. Letters from Mr. Retz. 17. Documents referring to the Lykensthal affairs. 376 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 18. Letter of excuse from j\Ir. Flohr. 19. Letters from ]Mr. Grob's congregations. 20. Journal of the traveling preacher, Mr. Stauch, and excuse. 21. Letters from Ohio State. Ask to be visited. 22. Letters from Mr. Peterson, of Harrisburg. Excuses himself. 23. Letters referring to jNIr. Ilgen, in which the people testify to their satisfaction with him. The reports of the District Meetings were presented : — 1. Of the Philadelphia District, no report was sent. 2. From the committee of Springfield, a written report was handed in by Rev. Mr. Endress regarding iSlr. Mensch, that everything had been arranged to the satisfaction of both parties. Mr. Mensch confessed and apologized for his act publicly before the congregation, asked to be for- given and promised genuine improvement before God. The congrega- tion forgave him and recognizes him as its preacher. The Ministerium expresses its satisfaction. 3. The Lancaster District made no report. 4. The York District made no report. 5. The Baltimore District reported that they had met at Greencastle and had spent the time in edifying theological discussions. 6. The Western District made no report. 7. The Virginia District sent its printed transactions. They were read, and it was unanimously resolved that these transactions be hon- orably mentioned in the Protocol, and the brethren be requested to con- tinue their praiseworthy eflforts. Resolved, That Dr. Helmuth prepare an essay in reference to a re- port (which was appended to these transactions) of the origin and development of the German congregations in North Carolina, which e.?say is to be sent to the pastors in that place for their encouragement, and is to be signed by the President and the Secretary. Approved and carried out. 8. The Eastern District hands in a report, that a young man named P. Heinrich Mattes applied to be admitted to the ministrj'. The list of the baptized, confirmed, etc, by the various preachers, was handed in : Dr. ITelmuth, Philadelphia ) Mr. Schmidt, " j ' * Dr. H. Muhlenberg, Lancaster . Mr. Streit, Winchester 68 « Goering,York 212 Bnp- Con- Communi- De- tlzcd. firmed. cimts. censed. Sch'ls. 405 73 927 178 4 175 63 420 27 1 68 — 81 17 1 212 69 411 — — SIXTIETH CONVENTION, 1807. 377 Bap- Con- Communi- De- tized. firmed, cants. ceased.Sch'ls. Mr. Melsheimer, Hanover — — — — — " Kurtz, Baltimore 130 38 295 57 1 " Schiifer, Germantown 110 38 247 39 2 " Hiukel -— — — — — " Geisenheiner, Sen., New Hanover. 188 172 962 26 6 " Lochman, Lebanon 176 108 704 55 7 " Schmucker, Hegerstadt .... 180 30 305 27 4 " Jiiger, Hanover Township ... 121 87 623 17 8 " Endress, Easton 137 — 314 31 6 " Dill, Whiteliall 107 65 236 26 3 " Piitt, New Holland 175 91 602 31 4 " Grob, Taney town 78 40 250 10 4 " Kriiber, Middletown 67 24 125 29 3 " Herbst, York County 191 19 185 18 3 " Stock, York County 47 — 37 5 — " Steck, York County 206 76 253 31 — " Geiseuheiner, Whitehall .... 151 126 1106 24 9 « Roeller, Whitehall 109 42 319 17 2 " Jasinsky, Friedrichstadt .... 164 — — 75 — " Ilgen, Friedrichstadt 194 — 139 20 4 " Moller, Chambersburg 81 36 123 29 2 " Butler 41 — 111 8 1 " Scriba 24 33 40 6 — " Muhlenberg, Reading 99 56 252 19 1 " Knoske 145 — 400 31 5 « Walter 372 103 319 68 3 " Cramer 102 115 273 11 3 " Haas 90 — 60 7 « Mensch 97 39 161 15 4 " Riemann 93 — 283 11 2 " Sanno, Carlisle — — — — — " Petersen, Harrisburg 156 — 81 35 2 P.M. On Monday afternoon the session was opened at the usual place with prayer. • Ad. 1. A letter from Dr. Kuutze was read, in which he regrets that he is deprived of the pleasure of attending the Synod, in which he hopes that the brethren will hold fast to the pure doctrine of Jesus, since apostasy is so generally prevailing in Europe, in which he refers to the Philadelphia congregation, etc. 378 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Ad. 2. A letter from Rockingham County, Virginia, "was read, in which request was made for a preacher : Resolved, If auy preacher is inclined to serve that district as its pastor, he shall inform the President as soon as possible. 3. A letter from North Carolina was read, which describes the sad condition of many congregations which are without preachers — asks for a preacher and promises him an ample salary : Resolved, That any preacher who feels inclined, have permission to accept these congrega- tions, and that he shall inform the President. 4. Mr. Stock's letter of excuse Avas read. He hopes to be excused from this year's Synod, because of the distance, and asks for a certifi- cate of ordination. 5 and 19. Letters from Mr. Grob's congregations, containing in part complaints against him, in part writings in his defence, were read, whereupon it was resolved, that Rev. Messrs. Streit, Lochman and Dele- gate Mr. Stahl be a committee to investigate the matter and report to the Synod. 6. The letter from Abbotstown was read, in which request is made for ^Ir. Rehman as their preacher : Resolved, That Mr. Rehman may visit the said congregation, and accept it, if he wishes. Ad. 7, 9 and 11. A letter from Loudon County, Virginia, as also one from Woodsbury, Maryland, was read, in which request is made that Rev. Mr. Jasinsky, with whom they are well satisfied, may remain with them. Also a letter from Friedrichstadt was read, in which complaint is made of a misbehavior of said preacher, and the Synod is requested to investigate the matter. Resolved, That Revs. Messrs. Schaeffer and Plitt and Delegates ^lessrs. Ebert, Fritz and Konig be a committee to investigate this dispute and report to the Synod. Ad. 8. An address from those in Philadelphia who favor the Eng- lish was read, in which the Synod is petitioned to mediate in their con- gregational disputes. The remainder of this day was spent on this address, but no decision was reached. The evening was come, and after prayer the Synod ad- journed. In the evening the elder Mr. Geisenheiner preached in the Lutheran Church. Tuesday, Mxy 2Gth, a.m. This morning the preachers, candidates, catechists and delegates again met in the schoolhouse and the business was opened with prayer. The committee concerning Mr. Grobp's affairs in Johannes church reported as follows : SIXTIETH CONVENTION, 1807. 379 5 and 19. "That it has investigated the complaints made by a num- ber of the members of said congregation, and heard the defence of Mr. Grobp. The committee is of the opinion that the complaints are not sufficiently proved, but that nevertheless there has been error on both sides. It knows of no better advice to give than : That Rev. JMr. Grobp, at the end of his year, for the sake of peace, resign said congre- gation, in order that it may be free to chose any preacher of the Minis- terium as its pastor, whereby it is to be well understood, however, that Rev. Mr. Grobp may be one of the candidates." This report was approved by the Synod, and resolved, that the decision of the committee be sent to the congregation, which was done. The committee with reference to the difficulties at Friedrichstadt, with which Loudon County, Virginia, and Woodsbury are united, reports as follows : " 1. That for the past year there has been a latent ill-feeling between some members and the preacher. 2. All parties, the preacher and those adhering to him, as also the members opposed to him, and the country congregations united with them, in which Mr. Jasinsky is in favor, understand that union and the best interests of the congregations can be attained in no better way, than through a peace-loving and capable pious pastor. Mr. Jasinsky and his friends in Friedrichstadt, and the smaller congregations agreed to this, with the condition that Mr. Jasinsky be dismissed honorably [auf schiedliche Art] and in love. 3. Mr. Jasinsky regards the following as the proper method of his dismissal : As soon as his year is up, he will deliver his farewell address, remain in the parsonage until August 1st without being preacher of the place, receive his promised salary, and a testimonial of blameless life and doctrine from the Church Council." Signed by Mr. Jasinsky, Friedrich Heisle and the committee. Resolved, that the Synod approve this — which was done — but with the proviso, that in case of need, Mr. Jasinsky be permitted to serve the congregation, and remain in the parsonage without paying rent. Dr. Helmuth's essay with reference to the congregations in North Carolina was read and approved, whereupon it was resolved to send the same to the German Lutheran ]\Iinisterium of that district, and to have it signed by the President and Secretary. Ad. 9. The matter of tlie Philadeli)hia address was again brought up, and after both parties were heard with patience and charity, the Synod perceived that in the present state of affairs no mediation was possible. It was therefore moved and resolved, " That, as the delegates from Philadelphia had addressed the Synod courteously, a courteous answer be made them, and that the Synod knows no better advice than that 380 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. already given in Germantown ; and that, since this advice v^as not fol- lowed, the Synod can have nothing further to do with the matter ; but addresses its most fraternal requests and admonitions to both parties to make peace among themselves." Tliis answer was presented to the dele- gates, and a copy of this resolution was given to both parties. Pastor Schmidt, as Treasurer, rendered an account of the receipts and expenditures of the money in the treasury of the Synod, and, as this account was found correct, it was signed by the President and the Secretary. Besolved, That a brief abstract of the reports of the doings of the traveling preachers be printed and distributed in the country by the preachers. Further Resolved, That Dr. Helmuth, assisted by the traveling preach- ers, shall attend to the preparation and printing of this brief report. It was noticed with regret, that the arrangements [Institute] concern- ing the traveling preachers, etc., are not supported and advanced with the zeal which the importance of the matter seems to demand. Here- upon it was resolved that the President urgently exhort all the preachers and the delegates present, that in the future they earnestly recommend and praise the Institute in their congregations, in order that it may not prove an entire failure. Further Resolved, That this admonition shall be appended to the report of the traveling preachers, in order that in future this institution may be carried on more zealously, and that larger and more liberal contribu- tions may be gathered in the congregations. The session was closed with prayer. Tuesday, 26th, p.m. Ad. 10. In reference to the private matter, which Joh. Keller, of Strasburg, had reported concerning INIr. Herbst, Messrs. Rev. Dr. SchaefFer, Joh. Stahl and Lud. Kesselring, delegate, were named a committee to hear the complaint and report to the Synod. Ad. 20. A part of the journal handed in by Preacher Stanch was read, from which it appears that he traveled 1300 miles, preached 67 times, baptized 212 children, and received on this journey §42.5)8. He traveled about 122 days, and in consideration of this the Synodical Treasury owes to Mr. Stanch the sum of SI 62.67. Mr. Iliukel read a part of his journal, from whicli it appears that he traveled 128 days in the service of the Synod, and baptized 158 chil- dren, and received $106.05 on tliis journey. Rev. Mr. Euders and the delegates, Messrs. Scheezer and Beyer, SIXTIETK CONVENTION, 1807. 381 were appointed a committee to audit these accounts of the traveling preachers. Concerning IMr. Stauch's accounts, the committee remarked that an error had crept in through an oversight. The account stands as follows: Mr. Stanch hands in the sum of S42.98, and says in his report that in addition to this he collected in his congregations, for the Traveling Institute, $22.50, making $G5. 48. Mr. Stauch's credit with the Synod, $162.67. Due him, $97.19. In relation to Mr. Hinkel's accounts, the committee reports : Since the Synodical Treasury has been considerably drained by the heavy expenditures of last year, the Synod resolves, that this year only one traveling preacher be appointed, and that Mr. Stanch be tliis travel- ing preacher, who is appointed for three months, and that forty dollars be paid him in advance. The district to be visited by the traveling preacher this year com- prises New Virginia, viz. : Rockbridge, Botetourt and Montgomery. Moved and resolved, that the appointment of the traveling preacher be this time referred to the Ministerial Meeting for special reasons. It is, however, expressly stipulated that the rights of the congregational delegates in future to vote for traveling preachers are not abrogated — It therefore remains an inalienable right, that delegates shall be entitled to vote with the preachers in the election of traveling preachers. — That this privilege may be retained, this resolution is entered on the minutes. The Synod is informed that several young men are desirous of devot- ing themselves to the ministry ; namely, Messrs. Heine, Simon and Hen- rich Riemenschneider. Resolved, That the sum of one hundred dollars from the Synodical Treasury be granted each of these students, to enable them to continue their studies, which sum however, is to be paid to their teachers. The committee in reference to Joh. Keller's matters, concerning Rev. Herbst, handed in the following report : The committee has read and considered the letter presented, and the points contained in it ; the accused has defended himself in such wise, that the committee believes the accused will by the grace of God be careful to live ever more guardedly, and blamelessly as a Christian and a pastor, so that all his efforts in word and life may more and more attain to the extension of true Christianity. — Approved by the Synod. Resolved, To pay to each of the widows of the preachers, namely, Widows Kurtz, Weinland, Krug, Ernst, Schaum, Ludke and Jung, the sum of five dollars from the Synodical Treasury. The President receives the money, and promises to have it duly paid to the said widows. 382 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Hereupon the time and place of the next Synod were appointed. Time, Trinity Sunday ; place, Lebanon. The Synodlcal Meeting was dosed with song and prayer. Acts op the Ministerial Meeting, held in the City of Lan- caster, IMay 27Tn. A.M. Wednesday, May 27th, in the morning, all the preachers assembled in the church, and, after prayer, the Ministerial business was opened. After due deliberation, the Ministerium resolves, that each applicant for the office of teacher, shall, before being received, hand a brief auto- biography to the Ministerium. Li- Ser- Jour- cense, moa. nal. 1. Candidate Stock handed in 1 2 3 2. " Scriba handed in — 1 — 3. " Knoske handed in — — — 4. " Walter handed in — 1 — 5. '* Kramer handed in 1 1 1 6. " Haas handed in 1 1 — 7. " Mensch handed in — — 1 8. '* Rieman handed in 1 1 1 9. " Sanno handed in — — — The last named was excused because before leaving home, he did not know whether he could attend the Synod. Philip Henrich IMattes, who was examined and recommended by the Easton District, aj)plied for admission. Likewise, Philip Jacob Stout. The Synod resolves, that young Mr. Schaeffer and Mr. Heine be examined by a committee of the Ministerium, and if found qualified, be granted licenses. Dr. Helmuth and Pastor Schmidt were named to examine Mr. Schaeffer, and the officers are to examine Mr. Heine at their convenience. Rev. Mr. Schmidt and Geisenheiner were appointed to examine Mr. Mattes, and Scliaeffer and Melzheimer to examine Mr. Stout. Henrich Carl Iden aj)plied for admission, but the Ministerium does not wish to have any dealings with him, because his character is not sufficiently known. The preacher, Mr. INIeyer, from Canada, as a former member of the New York Ministerium, apjjlies to be admitted into the Pennsylvania Ministerium. Resolved, That ]\Ir. Aug. F. Meyer, as others in previous years be SIXTIETH CONVENTION, 1807. 383 regarded as a friend, without being an actual member, and that congre- gations united with us have full permission to accept him as pastor, without acting against our Constitution. We have looked over his papers, and have no doubt as to the correctness of his ordination, etc. A copy of this was given him. Ad. No. 16. A letter from Mr. Ritz, of Waldburg, [Waldboro', Me.], New England, was read, in which he petitions that he be permitted to perform all adns minuteriales. Resolved, To grant this petition and have a certificate to this effect prepared and signed by the officers. The morning session was closed with prayer. p. M. On Wednesday afternoon the members of the Ministerium again assembled in the church, and after prayer, continued their business. Pastor Schmidt and Geisenheiner, as the committee which examined the applicant Mattes, testified to their satisfaction with his knowledge of languages and theology, and gave it as their judgment, that he re- ceive a license as a catechist. Approved and granted. Pastor Melzheimer and Schaeffer as the committee which examined the applicant Stout, testify that he gives evidence of Christian exj^er- ience, but is rather deficient in theology. They propose that he be granted a license as candidate, to be traveling preacher in the Virginia district ; namely, Rockbridge, Botetourt, Montgomery. Granted. Pastors Endress and Lochmann, as the committee which examined the sermon and the diary of the candidate, Mr. Knoske, testify to entire satisfaction with them. (They therefore propose to the members of the Ministerium, that in case he be regularly married, his license be re- newed. Approved.) These same gentlemen, who examined the sermon of the Candidate Riemau, testify that his sermon is good and edifying. His license is renewed. The sermon of Candidate Scriba was also examined by these gentle- men and found to be thorough. Resolved, That his license be renewed. Rev. Messrs. Schmucker and Jasinsky are appointed to investigate the conduct of Messrs. Cramer and Scriba in reference to a scandalous transaction in Manheim, and report to the ^Ministerium. The candidate, Mr. Mensch, handed in only his diary ; his license shall be renewed. Rev. Mr. Schmucker commended Candidate Haas, that the sermon which was given him for examination was thorough. His license is renewed. 3S4 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. The candidate, Sanno, again satisfactorily excused himself fur not having a sermon, his diary, etc., and promises to send them to the President. His license shall be renewed. Ad. 12. Resolved, That Candidate Cramer serve the following con- gregations until May 27, 1808, namely, Hummelstown, Maytown, Elizabethtown and Columbia. Ad. 17. That Candidate "Walter serve St. John's Church and Wirth's Church until May 27, 1808. The President gave all the candidates their renewed licenses, with the best wishes. Hereupon the Ministerial Meeting was closed with a hymn and devout [prayer] by This is Avitnessed. SIXTY-FIRST CONVENTION. 1808. (Lebanon). Transactions of the Evangelical Lutheran Synodical Meeting Held ON June 12th, 1808, and the Following Days, in the City of Leb- anon, Dauphin County. On Sunday morning, June 12th, all the preachers and the delegates of the respective congregations assembled in the parsonage and went to the church, where Dr. Helmuth preached to a numerous assembly on John 10 : 1 sq. On this same morning Rev. Schiifer preached in the Reformed Church, in the afternoon Rev. Kurtz preached on John 14 : 23, and in the evening Rev. Jager on Gal. 6 : 15 sq. Monday, June 13th, A.M., the preachers and delegates gathered in the church, as they had been invited to do, and after the Synod was opened with prayer by Rev. Kurtz, the President having departed in death, the business was opened in the name of the Lord. The Ordained Preachers Present Were: 1. Pastor Emanuel Schulze, Senior, from Tulpehocken. 2. Dr. Heurich Helmuth, from Philadelphia. 3. Pastor Friedrich Schmidt, from Philadelphia. 4. Dr. Henrich Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. 5. Pastor Val. Melsheimer, from Hanover. 6. " Daniel Kurtz, from Baltimore. 7. " David Schiifer, from Germantown. 8. " Daniel Lehman, from Misillum. 9. " Lochmau, from Lebanon. 10. " Schmucker, from Hegerstadt. 11. " Jiiger, of Northampton County. 12. " Rothrauf, from Greencastle. 13. " Dill, from Plainfield. 14. " Endress, from East Town, 15. " Plitt, Sr., from New Holland 16. " Herbst, from Fisel's Church. 25 385 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 386 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 17. Pastor Jasinsky, from Pikelaud. Gcisenheiuer, from Whitehall. Roller, from Goschenhoppen. Ilgeu, from Aaronsburg. I\IolIcr, from Chambersburg. Butler, from Fort Cumberland. Candidates Present Were: Mr. Stok, from Katawissen. " Sanno, from Carlisle. " Knoske, from Manheim, Berks County. " Scriba, from Moheira, Lancaster County. " Walter, from Middleburg. " Petersen, from Ilarrisburg. " Cramer, from May Town. 8. " Mensch, from Springfield. Catechists Present Were : 1. Mr. Schafer, Jr., from Whitpen. 2. Mr. Heine, from Bauer's Church, and, finally, the traveling preacher, Mr. Staut. Ordained preachers absent were : 1. Pastor Streit, from Winchester, Virginia, without an excuse. 2. Pastor Hinkel, from New Market, without an excuse. 3. Pastor Zimmerman, from Culpepper, with ex- cuse. 4. Pastor Geisenheiner, Sr., who moved to New York. 5. Pastor Foltz, from Rockingham County, without an excuse. 6. Pastor Forster, from State of Ohio, without an excuse. 7. Pastor Grobp, from Taney- town, without an excuse. 8. Pastor Greber, from ]\Iiddletown, with excuse. 9. Pastor Spindler, from John's Church, Virginia, without an excuse. 10. Pastor Flor, from Eversham, Virginia, without an excuse 11. Pastor Steck, from Greensburg, without an excuse. 12. Pastor Stanch, from Lisburn, Ohio, with excuse. 13. Pastor Muhlenberg, Jr., from Reading, excused. Candidates absent were : 1. Mr. Langc, from Berlin, with excuse. 2. Mr. Haas, from Huntingdon, with excuse. 3. Mr. Ricmanu, from Abbotstadt, with excuse. 4. Mr. Kessler, from Cumberland, with ex- cuse. SIXTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1808. 387 Delegates Present with Written Credentials of Legiti- mation. 1. Mr. Christian Bey, from Tulpehocken. 2. " Peter Lex, from Philadelphia. 3. " Georg Rahn, from Phihxdelphia. 4. " Peter Schendele, from Lancaster. 5. " Anton Hinkel, from Hanover. 6. " Johannes Meyer, from Misillum. 7. " Philip Horn, from Baltimore. 8. " Johannes Stober, from Lebanon. 9. " Johannes Bardt, from Hegerstadt. 10. " Henrich Jung, from Hanover, Northampton County. 11. " Peter Schall, from Plainfield. 12. " Johannes Barnet, from East To"\vn. 33. " Johannes Winters, from New Holland. 14. " Johannes Bartner, from Fissel's Church. 15. " Georg Munich, from Aaronsburg. 16. " Joseph Egolf, from Carlisle. 17. " Jacob Emmerich, from Manheim, Berks County. 18. " Georg Merkle, from Middleburgh. 19. " Georg Jans, from Harrisburg. 20. " Jacob Schiifer, from Maj'town. 21. " Valentin Opp, from Springfield. Total preachers present, 22 ; absent, 13. Candidates and catechists present, 10 ; absent, 4, and delegates pres- ent, 21. Hereupon the annual election of officers was held, and it was found that Dr. Henrich Muhlenberg, of Lancaster, had a majority of votes for President. Pastor Dr. Kurtz, of Baltimore, for Secretary. Pastor Friedrich Schmidt, of Philadelphia, for Treasurer, and these were duly recognized by the Synod as its duly elected officers. The Treasurer, Pastor Schmidt, then reported that the receipts dur- ing the past year for the fund for the support of traveling preachers, the education of young preachers and the aid of preachers' widows amounted to S784.17^, and the expenditures to $644.37, leaving a bal- ance in the treasury of $139. 80J. The accounts of the Treasurer were audited by Rev. Mr. Plitt and Peter Bey, and as they found them correct, the accounts were signed by the ofllcers. 388 DOCUMENTAEY HISTORY. The following contributions were gathered in the various congrega- tions for the treasury and handed to the Treasurer : — Namely : 1. From Philadelphia $152.95 2. " Lancaster 20.00 3. " Germantown 4.22 4. A present from Mr. Joh. Meyer, of Hamburg 5.00 5. From the congregation at Lebanon \ „ nrj and the congregations united with it J 6. From Hegerstadt 47.11 7. " Greencastle 18.75 8. " Plainfield 7.12 9. " East Town 5.00 10. " Aaronsburg 28.70 11. " Fort Cumberland 8.91 12. A present from Joseph Egolf, from \ ^ ^^ Rev. Sanno's congregation in Carlisle J 13. From Manheim, Berks County . . . 6.00 14. " Manheim, Lancaster County . 11.70 15. A present from Rev. Walter, of Middleburg 5.00 16. From Harrisburg 22.52 17. " Maytown 34.30i 18. Mr. Kessler sent from Christ's Church 10.21 Total $417.49^ It was moved and seconded that certain amounts be granted the fol- lowing young men this year out of the Synodical Treasury, to enable them to continue their theological studies, which was approved : Namely : 1. Mr. Simon, the sum of $30.00. 2. Mr. Ilecht, the sum of $100.00. It was suggested and laid before the Synod for consideration : " Whether it might not be useful and advantageous that a young man be specially educated and set apart for the work of a traveling preacher ; or whether another preacher be sent out for this work, as is customary ?'' But since this suggestion deserved mature deliberation, it was moved and seconded that this matter be postponed until the afternoon. Ajv proved. Upon approval of the Synod the following sums from the treasury were granted for the support of tlie preachers' widows, wliose names follow, viz. : To the AVidow Kurtz, $15.00 ; to the Widow Jung, $15.00 ; SIXTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1808. 389 to the Widow Krug, $15.00 ; to the Widow Liitke, $15.00 ; to the Widow Weinland, $15.00. Hereupon the morning session was closed with prayer. P.M. On Monday afternoon the transactions again began, after prayer had been offered. It was moved and seconded, that Mr. Paul Hinkel be the traveling preacher for one year, or until the next Synod, which was approved. — The district which he has to travel over extends only to Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Further, it was moved and seconded, that Mr. Simon, after due examination, if he be found qualified, be the second traveling preacher, whose district shall be restricted to the small towns and northern parts of Pennsylvania and the State of Ohio. It was, however, distinctly understood that neither of the traveling preachers shall encroach upon any congregations where preachers are already stationed. Approved. It was thought proper, and therefore moved and resolved, that the traveling preachers consider whatever money they might receive for their labors from the congregations as their property, but that they hand in to the Synod an account of it with their official reports at the next Synodical Meeting, in order that it might thus be known whether and in how far the gifts received by them suffice for their support. Approved. After this the Protocol of last year's meeting was read, and the fol- lowing papers were handed in : 1. A letter from Whitpen. 2. << (C Gotfried Haga. 3. (< te Johannes Fischer. 4. <( a the State of Ohio. 6. i( concerning taxes on church property in Pennsylvania. 6. a from Crawford County. 7. << u New Hanover. 8. « It Eockingham County. 9. (( t( Mr. Haas, excusing himself; letter contains his pastoral report. 10. « l( " Stauch, excusing himself; letter contains his pastoral report. 11. « (f Miami. 12. « « Manheim. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 390 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 1-3. A letter of excuse from Mr. Stauch. 14. " from Rev. Kessler's cougregation. 15. " " the Fisel'a congregation, and other congregations united with it. 16. Testimonials from Mr. Steck's congregations. 17. *' " " Sanno's congregations. 18. Mr. Scriba has something to bring before Synod verbally. 19. A letter from Halifax Township, in which petition is made for ]Mr. Petersen. ! Letters from Mount Joy, Elizabethtown, Maytown, etc, con- cerning Mr. Cramer. [ Letters from Friedrichstadt,''conceming Mr. Schafer, Jr. 25. Letters from Adams County. 26. " " Macunshy. 27. " " Bender's church. 28. " " Nordkill, Berks County. The reports of the special meetings were presented. 1. The York District handed in its transactions in writing, referring to Mr. Herbst, and as no complainants were present, it was resolved to let the matter rest. 2. The Lancaster District made a verbal report of its transactions. 3. The District of Virginia handed in a printed report, which was read in part, and with which the Synod expressed its satisfaction. Ad. No. 1. A letter from Whitpen was read, in which request was made for Mr. Schafer, Jr., as preacher, but if he could not accept the congregation, they request that another pastor be sent them as soon as possible. Moved and resolved, that Mr. Scriba visit the said congregations, and if they accept him as preacher, that his license be prepared for this congregation. Approved. Ad No. 2. The letter of Mr. Gottfried Haga was read, which referred to family matters. Ad. No. 3. Contains a request of the Mosheim Society in Philadel- phia, that the preachers might exert themselves to recommend a small German children's book in their congregations. Ad. No. 4. Contains hearty thajiks from congregations in the State of Ohio, who thank the Synod, that the traveling ])reacher, Mr. Paul Henkel, visited them ; also the request that the said pastor settle and make his home with them. Whereupon it was resolved, that the travel- ing preacher, Mr. Simon, shall visit them. SIXTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1808. 391 The afternoon session was closed with prayer, and the meeting was dismissed. This evening Mr. Rothrauff preached on James 2 : 21 f. June 14tu, a.m. Tuesday morning the Synod was opened with prayer, and the tran- sactions continued. Ad. No. 6. A letter from Crawford County was read, in which peti- tion is made for a preacher. As no pastor offered to serve this district as preacher, it was resolved, that one of the traveling preachers visit them, and preach the Gospel to them. Ad. No. 5. Contains a petition to the Assembly of Pennsylvania, that their churches, school-houses, and other real estate [liegende Griinde] belonging to the congregations might not be taxed. Ad. No. 17 and 27. Letters from Mr. Sanno's congregations were read, in which it is shown that he no longer desires to serve them as preacher, and request is made for another teacher. Resolved, That Mr. Scriba visit the congregations, and if they desire him, may accept them. Ad. No. 8. The letter from Rockingham County urgently petitions for a pastor in that district. Moved and seconded, that Pastor Schmucker answer the congregations in writing, that Pastor Moller will visit them. Ad. Nos. 10 and 13. Contain reports of Mr. Stauch's labors in his congregations, in which he at the same time requests that Mr. Simon, if he was examined and found capable, might go to the district of Jeffer- son and Trumbull. No. 11. A letter from Miami was read, in which request is made that one of the traveling preachers visit them. No. 14. Contains letters from Mr. Kessler's congregations, which tes- tify to their satisfaction with him as their preacher. Nos. 20, 21, 22. Contain testimonials of their satisfaction with their preadier, ]\Ir. Cramer. No. 23. A letter from Friedrichstadt was read, in which report is made, that the congregation called Mr. Schafer, Jr., as their teacher, and request is made that he be granted a license for the said congrega- tion. Thereupon it was moved and resolved that his license be prepared for this congregation. No. 25. A letter from Adams County was read, in which request is made that Rev. Mr. Rehman serve the St. John's congregation in the said county as its pastor. Moved and seconded [resolved], that as objections are made, the matter relating to ]\Ir. Rehman be postponed until the Ministerial Meeting. Approved. No. 26. Letters from Macunschy petition for a pastor. Resolved, That this matter be decided in the Ministerial Meeting. 392 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. No. 28. A letter from Nordkill was read, in -whicli request is made for Mr. Riemenschneider as their preacher. Resolved, That this re- quest be referred to the Ministerial Meeting, The following reports of the number of baptized, confirmed, com- municants, deceased and schools were handed in : Com- Bap- Con- muni- De- tized. finned, cants, ceased. Schools Pastor Schultz . . Dr. Helmuth . . Pastor Schmidt . Dr. Muhlenberg . Pastor Melsheimer " Kurtz . . " Schafer . " Lehman . " Lochman . " Schmucker " Jager . . " Rothrauff " Dill. . " Endress " putt. . « Herbst . " Jasinsky " Geisenheiner " Roller . " Ilgeu . " Moller . " Butler . " Stok. . " San no . " Knoske " Scriba . " Walter " Petersen " Cramer " Mensch « Stout . " Heine . " Schiifcr . Tulpehocken \ Philadelphia . Lancaster . . Hanover . . . Baltimore . . Germantown . ]Misillum . . . Lebanon . . . Hegerstadt (■ Hanover . . I Northampton . Greencastle . . Plainfield . . East Town . . New Holland 441 83 1082 172 176 63 467 115 73 338 150 — 264 97 19 224 198 123 1120 184 99 718 139 187 91 187 83 35 63 348 667 278 362 243 391 Fisel's Congregation 183 70 Pikeland 80 32 Whitehall . . . Goschenhoppen . Aaronsburg . . Chambersburg . Fort Cumberland Catawissa . . . 163 69 104 64 193 56 88 28 74 Carlisle 198 19 53 32 63 713 298 138 873 401 743 117 227 84 220 Manheim, Berks Co. 165 62 387 f Manheim, Lancas- 1 ter Co . Middleburgh ... 496 127 . Carlisle 184 48 . May town .... 116 65 . Springfield .... 148 43 . Traveling Preacher — — 801 274 427 188 37 27 57 31 33 41 29 9 23 20 19 18 31 27 15 19 7 4 18 19 30 37 86 12 45 29 14 40 28 8 Whitpen 25 53 45 SIXTY-FIEST CONVENTION, 1808. 393 Com- Bap- Con- miini- De- tized. firmed, cants, ceased. Schools. Pastor Kessler . . . Cumberland . . . — — — — — " Lange . . . . Somerset .... . 202 82 296 32 — " Staucla . . . Ohio . 323 43 356 11 — " Haas . . . . Huntington . . . 50 — 30 6 — " Steck . . . . Greensburg . . . 249 50 454 28 — " Flor. . . . . Wythe County . . 134 14 103 6 4 " Rehman^ . . 135 63 475 14 4 It was then moved and resolved, that a small pamphlet, similar to that of last year, be prepared, which should give a fuller account of the condition of our German Evangelical Lutheran congregations; that Dr. Muhlenberg prepare this paper, attend to the printing, and have 5000 copies printed. The time and the place of the next Synodical Meeting were then decided upon. Time, Trinity Sunday ; Place, Hanover, Pennsylvania. The session was closed with singing and prayer. [MINISTERIAL MEETING.] P.M. On Tuesday afternoon the Ministerial Meeting was opened with prayer. (No. 29. The report of the Special Meeting in the Fisel's congrega- tion again came up, and, after it was read, it was resolved, that this report be laid aside (beigelegt).) The candidates handed in their papers as follows ; Licenses. Sermons. Diariea. Candidate Mr. Stock 1 1 1 " Sanno — — — " Knoske .... 1 " Scriba — " Walter .... 1 " Petersen .... — " Cramer ^Added later. 1 394 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Licenses. Sermons. Diaries. Candidate Mr. Menscli i 1 1 " " Rehman 1 and a " Relation." " Schafer,Jr. ... 1 1 1 " " Heine excused himself, being ignorant of the rules. Pastor Lehman presented the name of Mr. Riemenschneider as an applicant for the ministry. The committee was appointed to look through the sermons and diaries of the candidates, and to examiue them. Pastors Schmidt and Endress were appointed to examine the work of Messrs. Stock and Knoske. They testify to their satisfaction, and recommend that their licenses be renewed. Pastors Schiifer and Jiiger were appointed to examine Messrs, Scriba and Walter, and their work. They testify to their satisfaction, and recommend that their licenses be renewed. Pastors Schmucker and Lehman Avere appointed to look over the ser- mons of Messrs. Cramer and Mensch, and gave judgment that they were good. They recommended tlie renewal ('f their licenses. Dr. Helnnith and Lochman were appointed to examine Mr. Schafer, Jr., JNIr. Heine and Riemenschneider, and testify to their satisfaction. Pastor Plitt, Ilgen and Rothrauff were appointed to look over the report of the traveling preacher, Mr. Stanch [Stout]. Ad. No. 28 and 12. Contain letters from Nordkill and ^Manheira, which petition for Mr. Riemenschneider as their preacher. "Whereupon it was moved and resolved, to advise the said Riemenschneider to go to the congregation at Nordkill. Ad. No. 26. Petitions for a pastor for ]\Iacunschy. Whereupon it was moved and resolved, that Mr. Heine visit this congregation, and, if he receives a call, that a license be prepared for him for this congre- gation by the officers in the name of the Ministerium. Ad. No. 19. Contains a letter from Halifax Township, Dauphin County, in which request is made for ]\Ir. Petersen as their pastor. Moved and resolved, that Rev. JMr. Petersen may accept and serve them. Ad. No 16. Contains testimonials of satisfaction from Mr. Stock's congregation. The New Hanover ccngregation petitions for Mr. Miller as its preacher. Moved and resolved, that this petition be granted, in case he be found ca])able, after being examined. Dr. Helnnith and Schmidt in the meanwhile retain the license, and will hand it over to him, if the said Mr. Miller passes his exan)ination. SIXTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1808. 395 It was already late when Mr. Rebenak sent a letter to the Synod. Resolved, That the President answer it. Ad. No. 25. The matter regarding Mr. Rehman was further inves- tigated. Whereupon it was moved and resolved, that Mr. Rehman be advised, in the name of the IMiuisterium, not to accept the congregation at St. John's Church, and that the President give him friendly advice not to go into other pastors' congregations (fremde Gemeinden). The committees express their satisfaction with Messrs. Schiifer, Jr., Heine, Simon and Riemenschneider, and recommend that full license be given them. The committee passes favorable judgment on ]\Ir. Stout, and advises him that he be a candidate for congregations near Lewistown, for which place license shall be given him by the officers. Moved and resolved, that Mr. Sanno's license be renewed, if he sends the usual papers, sermons, diary, etc, to the officers, and if they are satisfied with it. The President then closed the Ministerial Meeting with prayer. Attested by Henrich Muhlenberg, President. Daniel Kurtz, Secretary. SIXTY-SECOND CONVENTION. 1809. Haijover, York County. Tra^tsactioxs op the Evangelical Lutheran Synodical Meeting held AT Hanover, Ma.y 28, 1809, and the Following Days. Early on Sunday morning, the preachers and the delegates of the various congregations assembled, and went in procession to the church, which was to be consecrated. Pastor Schmidt consecrated the church with an earnest prayer, and named it St. Michael's Church, and Dr. Muhlenberg, Sr., preached the consecration sermon on Acts 10 : 34-44. Rev. Mr. Stauch also preached this morning in the Eeformed Church, on John 3 : 16. In the afternoon, Mr. Lochmann preached in the Lutheran Church, on Luke 23 : 24 ; and in the evening, INIr. Schmucker on II Cor. 5:19, 20. On Monday morning, Maj 29th, the preachers and the delegates upon invitation, arrived at the church, and the President, Mr. jNIiihlenberg, opened the Synod with prayer, whereupon the transactions began. The Preachers Present were: 1. Pastor Schmidt, from Philadelphia. 2. " Dr. Muhlenberg, from Lancaster. 3. " Kurtz, from Baltimore. 4. " ]\Ielzheimer, from Hanover. 5. " Schaefer, Sr., from Germantown. 6. " Carpenter, from Culpepper. 7. " Hinkel, from New jNIarket. 8. " Lochmann, from Lebanon. 9. " Schmucker, from Hegerstadt. 10. " Jiiger, from Hanover, Northampton County. 11. " Routhrauff, from Greencastle. 12. " Endress, from Easttown. 13. " Plitt, from Now Holland. 14. " Grobp, from Taneytown. 15. " Kreber, from Middlctown. 896 SIXTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1809. 397 16. Pastor Stanch, from State of Ohio. 17. " Herbst, from Fissel's Church. 18. " Moeller, from Chambersburg. 19. " Muhlenberg, Jr., from Reading. 20. " Buttler, from Fort Cumberland. Candidates Present were: 1. Mr, Stock, from Catawissa. 2. " Sauno, from Carlisle. 3. " Knoske, from Mauheim, Berks County. 4. " Scriba, from Manheim, Lancaster County. 5. " Walter, from Middleburg. 6. *" Petersen, from Harrisburg. 7. " Cramer, from Maytown. 8. " Haas, from Huntington. 9. " Rehman, from Abbottstown. 10. " Melzheimer, from Bender's Church. 11. " D. Schaefer, from Friedrichtown. 12. " Kessler, from Cumberland. 13. " Heine, from Macunshy. 14. " Simon, from State of Ohio. 15. " Riemenschneider, from Nordkill. Catechist Present was: 1. Mr. Miller, from Goshenhoppen. Applicants for the ministry were: 1. Mr. Joh. P. Hecht. 2. " Sol. Schaefer. 3. " Wilhelm Petis [Bretis]. 4. " Henrich Weigand. 5. " Daniel Ulrich. 6. " Georg Hein. 7. " Friedrich Engel. 8. " Tiedeman. 9. " Wilhelm Meyer. 10. " Ernst. 11. " Friedrich Osterlo. Preachers absent Avere : 1. Dr. Helmuth, with written excuse, and recommends the Bible Society to the preachers and delegates ; 2. Mr. Streit had himself excused verbally ; 3. I\Ir. Lehman, with verbal ex- 398 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. cuse ; 4. Mr. Geisenheiuer, St., Avitli written excuse ; 5. Mr. Dill bad his absence excused verbally through Mr. Endress ; 6. Mr. Jasinsky, no excuse ; 7. Mr. Geisenheiner, Jr., no excuse ; 8. Mr. Roeller had him- self excused verbally through Mr. Schaefer ; 9. Mr. Ilgen excused him- self neither in writing nor verbally; 10. Mr. Foltz excused himself neither in writing nor verbally ; 11. Mr. Forster excused himself neither in writing nor verbally ; 12. Mr. Spindler excused himself neither in writing nor verbally ; 13. Mr Flohr excused himself neither in writing nor verbally ; 14. Mr. Steck excused himself neither in writing nor verbally. Candidates absent were: 1. Mr. Mensch excused himself because of sickness ; 2. Mr. Lange and 3, the traveling preacher, 'Mi. Stout, ex- cused themselves neither in writing nor verbally. Delegates Present with Written Credentials were: 1. Mr. Lange, from Philadelphia. 2. " Schindel, from Lancaster. 3. " Sauerwein, from Baltimore. 4. " Schlegel, from Hanover. 5. " Embich, from Lebanon. 6. " New, from Hagerstown. 7. " Schindel, from Greencastle. 8. " Schipman, from Easttown. 9. " Noll, from Taneytown. 10. " IMattes, from Fissel's Church. 11. " Reis, from Fort Cumberland. 12. " Barnitz, from Chambersburg. 13. " IMarter, from Carlisle. 14. " Onrich, from JManheim, Berks County. 15. " Walter, from Middleburg. 16. " Schoch, from Ilarrisburg. 17. " Wolfe, from Maytown. 18. " Schnerr, from Huntington. 19. " Kir&hman, from Abbotstown. 20. " Bogen, from Friedrichstown. 21. " Klein, from Macunshy. 22. " Filbert, from Nordkill. 23. " Amdt, from Bender's Church. Preachers present, 20 ; Candidates present, 15. Total, 35. Dele- gates present, 23. Preachers absent, 14; Candidate absent, 3. Total, 17. SIXTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1809. 399 The annual election of officers was then held, and after the votes were collected, it was found that 1. Dr. Muhlenberg was elected President. 2. " Kurtz Avas elected Secretary. 3. " Schmidt Avas elected Treasurer. The Treasurer, Pastor Schruidt, presented the account of receipts and expenditures of the Syuodical Treasury for the last year, from which it appeared that the receipts amounted to $557.30 and the expenditures to 8206.33, leaving a balance of $350.97 in the treasury. Rev. Messrs. Plitt and Endress, and the delegates, Messrs. Lange and Schindel, were named as a committee to examine the accounts, and as they were found correct, the officers signed them. The following contributions to the Synodical Treasury were gathered this year and handed over to the Treasurer, viz. : By Mr. Schindel . . " " Sauerwein . " Rev. IMelsheimer " " Schaeffer . " " Carpenter . " Delegates " Rev. Plitt " " Kreber " " Herbst " " Moller " " Butler A gift from Rev. Sanno and his delegates By Rev. Walter .... Middleburg . . " " Rehman . . . Abbotstown . . . Zion's Church . . Macunshy . . " Mr. Riemenschneider. Nordkill . . • A gift from Mr. Heine Lancaster Baltimore Hanover Germantown .... Culpepper Lebanon Hegerstown Hanover, Northampton Easttown Plainfield ISTew Holland .... Middletown Fissel's Church . . . Chambersburg . . . Fort Cumberland . . S20.00 30.00 8 00 29.06 20.00 20.25 21.25 6.00 4.50 42.46 4.00 13.50 5.00 4.10i 6.00 16.25 19.74^ 7.02* 19.62* 5.05 5.00 The following papers were handed to the Synod : 1. A letter from Whitpain, referring to the young Mr. Solomon Schaeflfer. 400 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 2. A letter from Sunbury ^ ... . ,_ ^^ • i x-n • i o « ,, T 1 . TT n f Asking for JNIr. Daniel TJlncn 3. " " Lykeii s Valley V *' , 4. " " Tulpehocken j ^ I-^-^^ier. 6. " " Pottsgrove, etc., desire Mr. Heclit as pastor. 6. " " Mr. Eugel. 7. " " FalknerschwauBn, asking for Mr. Miller as preacher. 8. " " Morris Cove, referring to Mr. Haas. 9. ** " Northumberland,askingfor Mr. Heine as preacher, 10. " " Manheim and Weis Eicheulaud, where Mr. Riem- enschneider is desired as preacher. 11. Mr. Onvich has something to remark verbally concerning Mr. Kuoske's leaving. 12. Letters from Rockingham County, asking for a preacher. 13. Letter from Mr. Osterlo, who seeks to be received. 14. Letter of excuse from Pastor Geisenheiner, of New York. 15. " " " Dr. Helmuth, of Philadelphia. 16. Letters from Bender's and Arndt's Churches. 17. " " the State of Ohio, asking for Mr. Simon as preacher. 18. " " "Washington, Pennsylvania, Pigeon Creek, asking for Mr. Weigaud as pastor. 19. " " St. John's Church, concerning disputes (Streitig- keiten). 20. A letter from Mr. Tiedeman, who petitions for aid from the Synodical Treasury, to enable him to continue his studies. 21. A letter from Bern, Berks County. Ad. No. 6. As the applicant, Mr. Hecht, must leave early on ac- count of the stage, it was moved and resolved that the President should appoint a committee to examine the apjihcant and report to the Minis, terium. Approved. (The committee consisted of Rev. Plitt and Endress, who examined him in languages, dogmatics, church history, etc., expressed their satis- faction with him, and at the same time proposed that a license for Potts- grove, etc., be i^repared and given him. Ap2)roved.) [Cancelled in the Protocol.] Hereupon the Protocol of last year was read. As the pamphlet which was appointed to be printed, and which was to contain a relation concerning our Evangelical Lutheran congrega- tions, could not be printed because of the lack of completeness in respect to the congregations, it was moved and resolved that the ])reacher8, when they hand in their official report, at the same time give a list of SIXTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1809. 401 the names of all their congregations, and also of the vacant congrega- tions in their neighborhood. The reports of the Special Conferences were handed in. 1. The Virginia District handed in a printed report, which was read in part. 2. The Baltimore District made a verbal report. The morning session was closed with prayer. Monday, p.m., the Synodical business was continued, after prayer. The letter No. 12, from Rockingham County, was read, in which petition is made for a preacher. Whereupon it was moved and re- solved that if a preacher desired to accept the said congregation, he should give notice to tlie President. No. 8 was read, in which petition is made that Mr. Haas might serve the congregation in Morris Cove, etc., and other congregation^, with preaching. This request was granted. As some complaints were made against ]\Ir. Haas by Huntingdon, but, as it seems, without foundation, it was moved and resolved to leave it to the conscientious judgment of the said pastor, whether he would retain or give up this congregation. No. 17. Contains letters of thanksgiving from Ohio, thanking that the traveling preacher, Mr. Simon, preached the Gospel unto them, and asking that he be appointed their permanent preacher. Moved and seconded that the request be granted and his license be prepared for this congregation. Approved. No. 18 was read, in which petition is made that Mr. Weigand might be appointed as pastor in Washington, Pennsylvania, — Pigeon Creek. Resolved, That the request be granted ; provided Mr. Weigand passes his examination. Nos. 2 and 3. Contain letters from Lyken's Valley, in all eight con- gregations. No. 4. Contains letters from Tulpehocken, which were read, asking for Mr. Ulrich as preacher. As both congregations claim the said preacher, since he seemed to have given them a promise in advance, after mature deliberation it was moved and seconded that Mr. Ulrich be advised to accept the call to Lyken's Valley and serve the congrega- tions there ; provided he pass his examination. Approved. No. 7. Contains letters from Falknerschwaunn, which were read, and in which they express their satisfaction with Mr. Miller, and at the same time request that he might be appointed their preacher. Moved and resolved to prepare for ]\Ir. Miller a license for the said congrega- tion ; provided he pass his examination. Approved. No. 1 was read, in which petition is made for Mr. Sol. Schaeffer, of Whitpain, as their preacher. jSIoved and resolved that this petition be granted ; provided Mr. Schaeffer pass his examination. Approved. 26 402 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. No. 9. Contain letters from Northumberland, which petition for Mr. Heim as their preacher. Postponed until the ]Ministerial Meeting. No. 16. Contains letters from Benders and Amdt's church, which make request for the young IMr. Melsheimer as preacher. Postponed until the Ministerial Meeting. No. 10. Contain letters from Manheim and Weis-Eichenland, 'which were read ; they testify to their satisfaction with Mr. Riemenschneider, and a request from Cocalico, that the said preacher might serve them. Postponed to the Ministerial Meeting. The preachers handed in the following official reports of their con- gregations : 1. Pastor Schmidt, of Philadelphia, reported 3 congregations in Phila- delphia ; 1 in Cohensie, 1 in Glashaus. Baptized, 517 ; con- firmed, 85; communicants, 1278; deceased, 165; schools, 5. 2. Dr. Muhlenberg, 1 church, 1 filial, in and near Lancaster. Baptized, 142 ; confirmed, 67 ; communicants, 465 ; deceased, 28 ; schools, 1. 3. Pastor Streit, from Winchester, reported 1 congregation at AVin- chester, 1 in Newstadt, 1 in Stauferstadt and 1 on Biber Creek. 4. Rev. Mr. Lehman*. 5. " " " Tulpehocken, 1 ; Rohrersburg, 1 ; Womelsdorf 1 ; Heidelberg, 1 ; Reed's church, 1 ; Schaferstadt, 1 ; Warwick, 1. 6. Rev. Kurtz, from Baltimore, 1 congregation. Baptized, 129 ; con- firmed, 43 ; communicants, 313 ; deceased, 50. 7. Rev. Melsheimer reported 1 congregation in Hanover, 1 David's church, 1 Jacob's church, 1 Kleindienst. 8. Rev. Schaefer reported 1 congregation in Germantown, and 6 filials, viz., at Frankford, Barren Hill, Merion, Whitpain, Oberdublin and Hamilton. Baptized, 115; confirmed, 35 ; communicants, 349 ; deceased, 26. 9. Rev. Carpenter, from Culpepper, 1 congregation. Baptized, 57; communicants, 135 ; deceased, 12 ; schools, 4 [?]. 10. Rev. Hinkel. 11. Rev. Lochman reported : 1 congregation at Lebanon, 1 Millers- town, 1 Bergkirche, 1 Bindnagel's, 1 Cammel's [?], 1 Jonestown, 1 Brick church [Ziegelkirclio] and two vacant congregations. Baptized, 181 ; confirmed, 103 ; communicants, 783 ; deceased, 38; schools, [?]. 12. Rev. Schmucker reported 1 congregation in Hegerstadt, 1 Conoqui- cheague, 1 Bord's church, 1 Funkstown. Baptized, 142 ; con- firmed, 74; communicants, 371 ; deceased, 33. *The edge of this page, 223, is broken off. SIXTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1809. 403 13. Rev. Rothrauff reported 1 congregation in Greencastle, 1 Strasburg, 1 Mercerriburg, 1 McConnelstown, 1 Falling Spring, 1 Fisher's, 1 Jacobs' church, 1 Appel's church, 1 Thomas' Creek. Baptized, 128; confirmed, 63; communicants, 401 ; deceased, 8. 14 reported 1 congregation in York, 1 Quikel's, 1 Holz- schwamm, 1 Wolf, 1 Creutz Creek, [Chajckely. 15. Rev. Endress reported 1 congregation in Easton, 1 St. John's church, 1 Williams Township, 1 Lower Saucon, and Hartwig, Chestnut Hill, Harmony, Towamensin and Penn Township, as vacant congregations. Baptized, 229 ; confirmed, 72 ; communi- cants, 371 ; deceased, 38. 16. Rev. Dill reported 1 congregation, 1 Plainfield, 1 Moore Township, 1 Hamilton, 1 Smithfield, 1 Mount Bethel. 17. Rev. Foltz. 18. Rev. Forster. 19. Pastor Plitt reported 1 congregation in New Holland, 1 Bergstrasse, 1 Muddy Creek, 1 Schwam, 1 Allegheny, 1 Forest, 1 Octoraro. Baptized, 182 ; confirmed, 77 ; communicants, 605 ; deceased, 23 ; schools, 4. 20. Pastor Grobp reported 1 congregation in Taneytown, 1 Emmits- burgh, 1 Silberrun, 1 Catestown, 1 Winters', 1* Mark's, 1 John's church. Baptized, 67 ; confirmed, 79 ; communicants, 257 ; de- ceased, 10 ; schools, 3. 21. Pastor Greber reported 1 congregation in Middletown, 1 St. Peter's church, 1 Geber's, 1 Ringer's. Baptized, 92 ; confirmed, 67 ; com- municants, 169 ; deceased, 10 ; schools, 4. 22. Pastor Spindler. 23. " Flohr. 24. " Steck. 25. " Stanch reported 14 congregations without names in Colum- bia, Jefierson and Trumbull counties, and 5 vacant congregations. Baptized, 351 ; confirmed, 49 ; communicants, 505 ; deceased, 9 ; schools, 3. 26. Pastor Herst [Herbst] reported 1 congregation in Fissel's, 1 Shus- ter's, 1 Sadler's, 1 Zion's, 1 Jerusalem, 1 Krauter's. Baptized, 194; confirmed, 31 ; communicants, 287; deceased, 28; schools, 4. 27. Pastor Jasinsky. 28. " Geisenheiraer, Jr. Baptized, 185 ; confirmed, 83 ; com- municants, 863 ; deceased, 33 ; schools, -9. 29. Pastor Roeller. 30. " Dgen reported 1 congregation in Aaronsburgh, 1 Brush Val- ley, 1 Ehrles, 1 Meeting-house, 1 Jungmanstadt, 1 New Berlin. 404 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 31. Pastor IMoeller reported 1 congregation in Chambersburg, 1 Bhip- pensburg, 1 Campbellstown. Baptized, 76; confirmed, 20; communicants, 126 ; deceased, 18. 32. Pastor Muhlenberg, Jr., reported 1 congregation in Reading, 1 Schwarzwald, 1 Spieser's. Baptized, 110; confirmed, 61; com- municants, 300 ; deceased, 23 ; schools, 2. 33. Pastor Butler reported 1 congregation in Cumberland, 1 George Hill's, 1 Reitz's, 1 Bohn's, 1 Morristown, 1 Hampshire. Bap- tized, 24 ; confirmed, 18 ; communicants, 224 ; deceased, 4. 34. Candidate Stock reported 1 congregation in Muncy, 1 Fullmer's, 1 Shamokiu, 2 English and 6 vacant congregations. Baptized, 87 ; confirmed, 24; communicants, 79 ; deceased, 9. 35. Candidate Lange. 36. " Knoske reported 1 Zion's church, 1 St. Paul's church, 1 St. John's church, 1 Salem's, 1 Jacob's church. Baptized, 114; confirmed, 31 ; communicants, 408 ; deceased, 26; schools, 6, 37. Candidate Sanno reported 1 Carlisle, 1 Sherman's Valley, 1 Frie- den's church, 1 Trentel's church, and 7 vacant congregations. Baptized, 166 ; confirmed, 129 ; communicants, 301 ; deceased, 19 ; schools, 2. 38. Candidate Scriba reported 1 congregation in Mifflin, 1 Tuscarora. Baptized, 30. 39. Candidate Walter reported 1 Hossinger's congregation, 1 Biber- damm, 1 IMohr's, 1 Bauermann's, 1 Seliusgrove, 1 Ran, 1 Ritter's, 1 Mossersthal, and 10 vacant congregations. Baptized, 415 ; confirmed, 191 ; communicants, 975 ; deaths, 33. 40. Candidate Petersen reported 1 congregation in Harrisburg, 1 ]\Iid- dleburgh, 1 Wenrick, 1 Fedderhof, 1 LongstafT. Baptized, 145; confirmed, 80 ; communicants, 317 ; deceased, 23. 41. Candidate Cramer, 1 congregation in Maytown, 1 Columbia, 1 Elizabethtown, 1 Mount Joy, 1 Hummelstown, 1 Bergkirche and 1 vacant congregation. Baptized, 114; confirmed, 90; com- municants, 533 ; deceased, 16. 42. Candidate Haas, 1 congregation Huntingdon, 1 Schonbergstadt, 1 Great Valley, 1 Woodcock Valley, 1 Spruce Creek, 1 Trough Creek, 1 Sinking Valley. Baptized, 70 ; confirmed, 32 ; com- municants, 50 ; deceased, 5. 43. Candidate ]\Iensch. Baptized, 88 ; confirmed, 25 ; comnuniicants, 175 ; deceased, 16 ; schools, 4. 44. Candidate Rehman, 8 congregations. Baptized, 135 ; confirmed, 23 ; communicants, 362; deceased, 13 ; schools, 4. 45. Candidate Melsheimer, Jr., reported, 1 Bender's, 1 Arndt's church. SIXTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1809. 405 46. Candidate D. Schaefer, Jr., reported 1 congregation in Friedrichs- stadt, 1 Woodsbury, 1 Crugcrtown, 1 Loudon County. Baptized, 174; confirmed, 200; communicants, 479; deceased, 38. 47. Candidate Kessler reported 1 congregation in Cumberland, 1 Kreisch, 1 Lehman's church. Baptized, 40 ; confirmed, 17 ; com- municants, 59; deceased, 14. 48. Candidate Stout. 49. " Heine reported 1 congregation in Macunshy, 1 Saucon, 1 Solzburgh, 1 Obermilford. Baptized, 102 ; confirmed, 79 ; communicants, 493 ; schools, 5. 50. Candidate Simon. 51. " Riemenschneider reported 1 congregation in Nordkill, 1 Manheim, 1 Weiseichen, and 2 vacant congregations. Baptized, 37; confirmed, 2o; communicants, 163; deceased, 6. 52. Candidate Miller reported 1 Falknerschwam, 1 New Goshenhoppen, 1 Berger's church. Baptized, 39. 53. Candidate Kebanac reported 1 JNIartinsburgh, 1 Sheppardstown, 1 Smithfield, 1 Sherersburgh. Baj^tized, 37; confirmed, 13; com- municants, 35 ; deceased, 7 ; schools, 1. No. 19 contains a petition from St. John's church, to settle disputes in the congregation with the assurance that the decision of the Synod shall be received as binding by all parties. — Hereupon it was moved and resolved, that Rev. Messrs. Plitt and Lochman and the delegates, Messrs. Lange and Shindel be a committee to investigate the dispute, and report to the Synod as soon as possible. — After some time the com- mittee made its report with the judgment that Mr. Grobp, who was stationed in this congregation as preacher, shall continue to serve it. — This report was unanimously approved and accepted by the Synod. No. 11. Mr. Orwich verbally petitions for a preacher in the name of some congregations, since Mr. Knoske intends to leave them. Moved and resolved, to advise the congregations, to look around for another preacher, who would be willing to serve them. No. 6. A letter from Northumberland was read, asking for Mr. Engel as preacher. Moved and seconded, that this petition be granted, if Mr. Engel passes the examination. No. 15. Concerning the Bible Society, which Dr. Helmuth, recom- mended, it was moved and resolved, that a letter of thanks be prepared for the said society, signed by the oflBcers, and sent to the society, and it be heartily thanked for the present of German Testaments for the benefit of the Germans who live on the frontier (an den Grenzen), with the promise that the preachers and delegates will recommend this asso- ciation to their congregations, and assist it to the best of their ability. 406 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Hereupon the time and place of the next Synod were decided Time, Trinity Sunday ; place, Harrisburg. After this the Synodical Meeting was closed with song and prayer, and the delegates dismissed. In the evening, jMr. ]\Iuhlenberg, Jr., preached on Revelation 22 : 17. Ministerial Meeting. Tuesday, May 30th, in the morning at 8 o'clock, the President opened the Ministerial Meeting with prayer, and the busfiness was begun. The following Candidates were distributed to committees for exami- nation : Candidates Cramer, Walter and Haas were assigned to Revs. Schmucker and Lochmann for examination ; Candidates Knoske, D. Schaeffer and Melzheimer to Revs. Eudress and Carpenter ; Candidates Miller, Sol. Schaeffer and Ulrich to Revs. Schmidt and Jager ; Messrs. Meyer, Friedman, Engel and Weigand to Rev. Muhlenberg, Jr., and Rev. Moller to be examined. Ad. No. 5. Rev. Messrs. Plitt and Eudress, who were appointed a committee to examine Mr. Hecht, made the following report : That they had examined him in Languages, Dogmatics, etc., and were well satisfied with him, and propose that a full license be granted him. Approved. With reference to Mr. Petis [Baetis] who was recommended by Dr. Helmuth, it was moved and resolved, that the said Petis be examined by the two Philadelphia preachers, and if they found him capable, a full license be prepared for him for Cohensie, etc., and wherever he might be used in case of need by one or other of the.«e preachers. The following candidates handed in their diaries and sermons : Can- didate Heine, one diary, two sermons ; Candidate Sanno, one sermon ; Candidate Riemenschncider, one diary, two sermons ; Candidate Scriba. Dr. Muhlenberg and Rev. JMelzheimer were appointed to examine the work of Messrs. Heine and Riemenschncider, and Dr. Schaeffer, Sr., and Mr. Rothrauff, were appointed to examine the work of Messrs. Sanno and Scriba. The morning session was hereupon closed with prayer. Tuesday afternoon, after prayer, the business was again begun. The committees made the following reports : Rev. Messrs. Schmidt and Jilger pass favorable judgment on IMessrs. Miller, S. Schaeffer and D. Ulrich, and propose that full licenses be granted them, and concerning Mr. Heine, they recommend that a cate- chist's license be given him on trial. Approved. Rev. Muhlenberg, Jr., and Mr. IMoclIer report on Messrs. Meyer, Tiedeman, Engel and Weigand, as follows : That they had moderate knowledge (mittelmassige Kenntnisse), and that they should be exhorted SIXTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1809. 407 to diligence in study. They propose that Mr. Engel be given a license as catechist for certain congregations, under the supervision of Mr. Ilgen, likewise Mr. AVeigand under the supervision of Mr. Stauch. Also, Mr. Meyer under the supervision of Mr. Hinkel, but only for one year, until further testimony could be obtained. Rev. Messrs. Schmucker and Lochmann judge favorably of Messrs. Cramer, Walter and Haas, and their general information. Rev. Messrs. Endress and Carpenter report on Messrs. Knoske, D. SchaefTer and Melzheimer, as follows : That their sermons are good, and that they have a fair knowledge of the languages. After mature dehb- eration, it was resolved concerning the men proposed for ordination, that the ordination be postponed for this year. As the Senior, Pastor Schulze, departed in death during last year, the election for the Seniorate was proposed, but without holding the elec- tion. Dr. Helmuth was unanimously appointed as Senior. Upon recommendation of the assembled brethren, the ordained preachers will at the next Ministerial Meeting unite on general princi- ples, according to which the fitness for ordination can and shall be determined in a uniform, impartial way. No. 12. Concerning Rockingham it was resolved, that Mr. Rienien- schneider visit the congregation in that district, and that they be pre- viously notified of this by Mr. Schmucker. Moved and seconded, that the licenses of all the candidates be re- newed. Approved. Concerning Mr. Ernst, Jr., it was resolved, that he be examined at a Special Conference in the Easttown District, and if he is found capa- ble, a license as catechist shall be granted him by the officei's. A similar resolution was passed concerning Mr. Osterlo. Hereupon all the candidates and catechists were given their licenses and a wish of blessing. Answer was made to Mr. Tiedeman, that the Ministerium did not have sufficient means to advance to him as much as he needs for board, studia, etc. Besolved, That the accounts of the traveling preachers be postponed to the next Synod. Rev. Mr. Hinkel was appointed traveling preacher for this year ; he was assigned to the same districts he had traveled over before, and under the same conditions; but it is to be distinctly understood that the Synod does not bind itself to make any payment, which the next will not approve. The traveling preacher, Mr. Hinkel, last year traveled seventy days and received thirty-five dollars. Resolved, That he be paid thirty dollars in addition. 408 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. The traveling preacher, ^Mr. SiiiKm, traveled five months and a half received seventy-four dollars and sixty-two cents. Resolved, That fifty dollars more be paid to him. Concerning Mr. Eebenack, who petitioned to be received (into the Synod), it was resolved, that this petition be postponed until the next Synod. Hereupon the session was closed with song and prayer. Rev. Mr. Endress preached this evening on Rom. 16: 20. Henrich Muhlenberg, President. Daniel Kurtz, Secretary. SIXTY-THIRD CONVENTION. 1810. Harrisburg. Tkansactions of the Evangelical Lutheran Synodical and Ministe- rial Meeting which was held June 17th, 18th, 19th, AT Harrisburg. Sunday morning all the preachers assembled in the parsonage, and went in procession to the church. In the Evangelical Lutheran Church the following pastors preached : Mr. Heine on Saturday evening, on Apoc. 2:10; Sunday morning, Dr. Muhlenberg, on Jude, vs. 20, 21 ; in the afternoon, Pastor Schaefer, on Rom. 8:13; in the evening, Rev. Lochman, on Acts 26 : 28. In the English Presbyterian Church there preached : Mr. Mendsen on Saturday evening, on Heb. 4: 9, 10, 11; Sunday morning, Pastor Kurtz, on Matth. 22 : 41, 42 ; in the afternoon. Pastor Plitt, on Apoc. 3:1; in the evening, Rev. Muhlenberg, on Jer. 34 : 16, On Monday morning at 9 o'clock the preachers and delegates, upon in\4tation, assembled in the church, and the President, Mr. Miihlen- berg, opened the Synod with jirayer, whereupon the Synodical business began. The Preachers Present were: 1. Doctor Helmuth, from Philadelphia. 2. " Miihleuberg, from Lancaster. 3. Pastor Kurtz, from Baltimore. 4. " Schaefer, from Germantown. 5. " Henckel, from Newmarket. 6. " Lochman, from Lebanon. 7. " Schmucker, from Yorktowu, 8. " Rothrauff, from Greencastle. 9. " Endress, from Easton. 10. " DiU, from Plainfield. 11. " Plitt, from New Holland. 12. " Herbst, from Fissel's Church. 13. " Jasinsky, from Pikeland. 409 410 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 14. Pastor Geisenbeimer, Jr., from "Whitehall. 15. " Roeller, from Gosheuhoppeu. 16. " Moeller, from Chambersburg. 17. " Muhlenberg, from Reading. 18. " Butler, from Fort Cumberland. The Candidates Present were: 1. Mr. Sanno, from Carlisle. 2. " Knoske, from Manheim, Berks County. 3. " Scriba. 4. " "Walter, fi-om Middleburgh. 5. " Petersen, from Harrisburg. 6. " Cramer, from Maytown. 7. " Haas, from Huntington. 8. " Mensch, from Springfield. 9. " Melsheimer, from Bender's Church. 10. " David Schaefer, from Fredericktown. 11. " Kessler, from Cumberland. 12. " Heine, from Makunshy 13. " Riemenschueider, Irom Nordkill. 14. '' Miller, from Goshenhoppen. 15. " Hecht, from Pottstown 16. " Betis, from Cohensy. 17. " S. Schaefer, Hagerstown. 18. " "Ullerich, from Lyken's Valley. 19. " "Vanhoff, from Johnstown. 20. " Wygandt. The Catechists Present were: 1. Mr. Heine, from Mifflin County. 2. •' Engel. 3. " Osterlo. 4. " L. M. Merkel. Applicants for the ministry : 1. Mr. Tiedeman ; 2. Mr. Sackman ; 3. Mr. Meendsen. Preachers absent were : 1. Pastor Sclimidt, excused himself in writing ; 2. Pastor Streit, without excuse ; 3. Pastor Lehman, with excuse; 4. Pastor Melsheimer, with excuse ; 5. Pastor Carpenter, with excuse ; 6. Pastor Geisenbeimer, Sr., with excuse ; 7. Pastor Jiiger, with ver- bal excuse; 8. Pastor Forster, without excuse ; 9. Pastor Grobp, with- out excuse ; 10. Pastor Kraeber, with written excuse ; 11. Pastor Spind- SIXTY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1810. 411 ler, pleads bis age as an excuse ; 12. Pastor Flohr, with written excuse ; 13. Pastor Steck, with written excuse, on account of sickness ; 14. Pas- tor Stauch, with written excuse ; 15. Pastor Ilgen, with written excuse. Candidates absent were: 1. ]\Ir. Stock, with written excuse ; 2. Mr. Lange, with written excuse ; 3. Mr. Rehman, without excuse ; 4. Mr. Staut, with written excuse ; 5. Mr. Simon, without excuse ; 6. Catechist Ernst, with written excuse ; 7. Catechist INIayer, with excuse. Delegates Present with Written Certificates. 1. Mr. Kunckel, from Philadelphia. 2. " Moser, from Lancaster. 3. " Kies, from Baltimore. 4. " Heilig, from Germantown. 5. " Ullerich, from Lebanon. 6. " Hay, from Yorktown. 7. " Mayer, from Greencastle. 8. " Stecker, from Easton. 9. " Mayerly, from Fissel's Church. 10. " Schantz, from Whitehill. 11. " Berly, from Fort Cumberland. 12. " Shock, from Middleburg. 13. " Jous, from Harrisburg. 14. " Schell, from Maytown. 15. " Gemer, from Huntington. 16. " Walter, from Bender's Church. 17. " Leidig, from Cumberland. 18. " Umbenhauer, from Nordkill. 19. " Beisler, from Goschenhoppen. 20. " Fillbert, from Pottsgrove. 21. " Ney, from Hagerstown. 22. " Enderlein, from Lykinsthal. New Holland, Goschenhoppen, Springfield, Fried richstadt excused themselves in writing, stating why they had sent no delegates this year. Total Present : Preachers 18") Candidates 20 [ 42 Catechists 4-/ Applicants 3 Delegates 22 The body of the Synod therefore consisted of 64 members. 412 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Hereupon the annual election of officers was held, and after the votes were gathered, it was found that the following were elected : 1. Dr. Muhlenberg, President. 2. Rev. Schmucker, Secretary. 3. Pastor Lochman, Treasurer. As the Rev. Schmidt, the former Treasurer, was not present, and in his letter to the Synod requested that another might be elected, in his place, it was Resolved, That Doctor Helmuth, Pastor Lochman and Mr. Kunckel be a committee to audit the accounts of the Treasurer and hand in a report. The delegates then handed in their papers and the Synod appointed five committees to examine and arrange them and report in the after- noon. The papers were as follows : No, , 1. From Philadelphia. Ko. 22. Concerning Sauno. 2. « Tulpehocken. <( 23. " Cramer. 3. (( Fredericktown. (( 24. Haas. 4. a Stock. « 25. From Staut. 5. (I Lange. (( 26. u Bender's church. 6. << Steck. ti 27. (( Goschenhoppen. 7. « Geisenheimer, Sr. li 28. Concerning Hecht. 8. a Stanch. ft 29. From Hagerstown. 9. (( Streit. << 30. << Lykens Valley. 10. (( Fiohr. it 31. a Mifflin, Hcin's. 11. u Germantown. It 32. (( Loudon, Virginia. 12. <( Rockingham. ii 33. (( En gel. 13. (< INIanheim. a 34. (( Warwick. 14. i( Jaeger. « 35. « Tied em an. 15. (I Whitpain. (( 36. i( Schwamm congre- 16. « Plainfield. gation. 17. « Graber. (t 37. (1 Mccndson. 18. (< Ilgen. « 38. (< Vanhoft", Jonestown 19. <( Heim. and Shepp's con- 20. « Kessler. gregation. 21. (( Carlisle. (( 39. « Osterlo. « 40. (( Rebenack. The morning session was closed with prayer. SIXTY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1810. 413 Monday, p.m. The session was opened with praj^er, and thereupon the Protocol of last year was read. The following reports of the number of congregations, baptized, con- firmed, communicants, deceased and schools, were handed in : 1. Dr. Helmuth . . Pastor Schmidt . 2. Dr. Muhlenberg 3. Pastor Streit . . Congre- Con- Communi- De- gations. Baptized, firmed. cants. ceased. Schools. 4. 6. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. Lehman . Melsheimer Kurtz . . Schaefer . Carpenter . Henkel . Lochman . Schmucker F. Geisenheimer Jaeger . , RothraufT Endres . . Dill . . , Forster . . Plitt . . , Grobp . , Graebcr . Spindler , Flohr . . Steck . . Stauch . . Herbst . . Jasinsky , Geisenlieimer, Jr Roeller . Ilgen . [Sic] Moeller Miihlcnberg, Battler . Jr 1 527 57 1000 168 5 3 202 80 506 82 1 1 134 27 264 43 2 3 91 27 305 35 2 5 118 100 439 38 5 6 216 240 831 31 5 7 101 61 365 9 2 4 74 36 218 23 1 6 176 67 635 14 4 — — — — — — — 174 63 188 17 4 — 309 62 449 27 — — 298 14 278 — — 7 196 71 998 30 9 5 97 39 411 27 3 3 113 61 218 12 2 2 130 110 484 27 1 7 55 21 169 3 — 414 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Congre- Con- Commnni- Dc- 34. Pastor Knosky 35. " Petersen 36. " Walter 37. Mr. Stock . 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65. Lange . Sanno . Scriba . Cramer Haas . Mensch Rehman Melsheimer D. Schaefer Kessler . Heine . . Simon . . Riemenschneid Miller . . Hecht . . Betis . . S. Schaefer Ullerich . Weigandt Heine . . Engel . . Ernst . . Osterlo . Vanhoff . Merkel . Tiedeman Sackman . Mundsen . gations. Baptized, finned. cants. ceased. Schools. 5 142 91 435 50 6 6 133 49 363 26 5 8 228 145 780 28 6 202 124 16 122 75 100 182 35 209 19 118 511 21 29 30 79 91 300 102 155 350 130 455 70 529 13 — 35 — 85 — 51 — 13 9 20 16 4 27 6 17 4 108 41 160 9 4 3 130 113 522 32 4 3 117 90 278 26 5 1 16 — 68 8 — 4 69 — 169 3 2 8 287 200 960 27 6 3 57 — — 5 5 2 120 — — 11 2 6 204 — — — — 1 1 12 4 6 — The District Conferences of Lancaster, Baltimore and Virginia gave some reports of their transactions. In the other districts no meetings were held. It was moved and unanimously approved by the Synod : 1. That a pastoral letter be sent by this S}niod to all our congrega- tions each year, and upon a subject which this Synod retains the right to determine. SIXTY THIRD CONVENTION, 1810. 415 2. That our worthy Senior, Dr. Helmuth, prepare and have printed this pastoral letter for this year. 3. That 5000 copies of it be printed at the expense of the Synod. The committees appointed handed in their reports in writing. No. 2 was taken up first. This number contains a request of the Tulpehocken and Womelsdorf congregations, that Mr. Ullrich might not be appointed their preacher, and that, 1. A new election for a pastor be held, in order that the congre- gation be not entirely scattered ; with the assurance, that they were willing to accept any other pastor. 2. A petition from the Tulpehocken congregation, asking for Mr. Ullrich as its pastor. 3. A petition from the Nordkill congregation, which desires Mr. Ullrich as its pastor, in case he should come to Tulpehocken. On this point it was moved and approved : The Ministerium hands the above papers with reference to Mr. Ullrich to a committee of five members, who shall conscientiously consider them, and report to the Synod. No. 30. Item, That the papers from Ly ken's Valley, be taken along with those. These contain a very urgent request of Mr Ullrich's entire congregation, that the Synod by all means arrange that Mr. Ullrich might continue his ministry among them ; otherwise all the progress made under him would come to nothing. It was moved and approved, that Messrs. Lochman, Plitt, Miihlen- berg, Jr., Hay and Philbert, be this committee. No. 12. With reference to the petition of the five congregations in Rockingham County, Virginia, which ask for Mr. Riemenschneider as their preacher, it was resolved, that Mr. Riemenschneider may with the consent of the Synod accept the said congregations. No. 13. Upon the request of the congregation in Manheim, to be served by the preacher who serves Warwick, in case INIr. Riemen- schneider should leave them, it was moved and approved, that the Synod grant Messrs. Cramer and Bctis permission to preach sermons (Besuchspredigten) in the congregation at Manheim, and tliat the Synod will be satisfied with the decision of the majority in that congre- gation. No. 14. With reference to the complaints against Rev. I\Ir. Jilger it was resolved, that the Synod cannot enter upon them, because Mr. Jager is not present. No. 15. With reference to the petition of the congregations AVhit- pain, Gwynedd and Hilltown, Montgomery County, for an able pastor, it was moved and approved, that the delegates look for one among the 416 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. preachers, and those that are willing to accept a call inform the Presi- dent. No. 16. With reference to the petition of the united congregations in Hamilton, Smithfield, Plaiufield and j\Iount Bethel for a pastor, for whose support they will make full provision, it was moved and approved as No. 15. No. 17. With reference to the petition of Rev. Mr. Griiber for better congregations, it was moved and approved, that the Secretary make known to him the vacant congregations, Nos. 15 and 16. No. 20. With reference to the letter of the Lisbon congregation, in Cumberland County, in which they ask for ]\Ir. Kessler as their preacher, it was moved and approved, that their petition be granted. No. 29. With reference to the letter of the congregations united with Hagerstown, in which they petition that the Synod approve their almost unanimous election of Mr. Solomon Schaefer as their preacher, it was moved and resolved that permission be granted to Mr. Solomon Schaefer. No. 34. With reference to the call of the congregations in Warwick and Schilferstown, to have Mr. Betis as their i)a;5tor, it was moved and approved, that their request be granted. No. 36. With reference to the petition of the congregations in Schwamm and Cocalico, it was moved and approved, that Mr. Betis be allowed to accept them. Thereupon the session was closed with prayer. This evening Pastor Eudres preached iu the Lutheran, and Pastor Jasinsky in the English church. Tuesday morning, at 6 o'clock, the members of the Synod again assembled in the Lutheran church, and because the President stayed away too long. Pastor Kurtz was elected President ^^ro tern., and Doctor Helmuth opeued the Synod with devout prayer, after which the business was continued. No. 2. The committee appointed yesterday, to which the papers referring to Mr. Ullrich were handed, reported in writing, as follows : The committee, after careful investigation, recognizes : 1. That Mr. Ullrich cannot without great injury be taken from the congregations in Lykensthal, who are unanimous in their attachment to him ; and that, although we would be Avilling to let the majority in Tulpchocken have Mr. Ullrich, yet we would not advise our friend to go to contending congregations. 2. That the United Congregations in Tulpehocken be advised to hold an election as soon as possible in each congregation for another preacher, who was not voted on at their last election, and who is a meniber of SIXTY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1810. 417 the Ministerium, the election to be held by ballot, and announced at public service at least four weeks in advance. 3. The preacher for whom the majority votes, and who will accept them, shall be granted them ; and the Synod expects that the minority will not burden it with further propositions in this matter. The entire report of the committee was approved by the Synod, and in reference to it, it was moved and resolved : 1. That copies of it be given to both parties in Tulpehocken. 2. That the committee be permitted to destroy the papers concerning Lykens Valley and Tulpehocken. That Pastor Lochman and Pastor Muhlenberg, Jr., be commissioned to preach in the congregations united with Tulpehocken, and to an- nounce the election, as soon as they are requested to do so by the congregations. Motion : That it be left to the assembled preachers this time, to de- termine the amount of appropriations from the Synodical Treasury and to appoint the traveling preacher for the coming year. Approved. Hereupon the time and place of the next Synod were determined, and after the votes were gathered, it was found to be as follows: 1. Time, Trinity Sunday. 2. Place, Philadelphia. The contributions to the Synodical Treasury were handed over : Summa 8215.43^ Item 6.00 $221.43 J The President hereupon closed the Synodical Meeting with song and prayer, and the delegates were dismissed. MINISTERIAL MEETING. Tuesday, at 10 a.m., the President opened the Ministerial Meeting with prayer, and the business was begun. No. 37. In reference to the call given to Mr. Meendsen by four congregations in Allen Township, Northampton County, it was moved and approved that Mr. Meendsen be permitted to accept these, and also other vacant congregations in the neighborhood, if he passes his exami- nation. Pastor Kurtz and Pastor Lochman were appointed his ex- aminers. No. 38. In reference to the letters of Mr. Drever and !Mr. Geisen- 27 418 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. heiuer couceruiug tlie candidate of theology recently anived from Ger- many, ]\Jr. M. Domeyer, and bis own letter to the Miuisterium, it was moved and approvtd, that ]\Ir. M. Domeyer be regarded and treated by us like all who have newly arrived from Germany. Xo. 39. In reference to the call for ^Mr. Friedrich Osterlo from Han- over and Newport Townsiiip, Luzerne County, it was moved and ap- proved that the request of these congregations be granted, if Mr. Osterlo passes his examination. Ko. 8. In reference to the letter of Rev. ]Mr. Stanch, in which he rec- ommends one Mr. Anton Weier to the Miuisterium as a pastor, it was moved and approved that the letter be answered in the name of the Ministerium in a fraternal (liebevolle) manner, approving his conduct in reference to INIr. Weier, and that Rev. Mr. Lochman write the answer. Ko. 25. In reference to the petition of Mr. Staut, to recommend him to congregations in Pennsylvania or Maryland, it was moved and ap- proved that the Ministerium could do nothing for him. No. 29. Concerning Hagerstown and ]Mr. Solomon Schaefer, the ad- ditional resolution was passed that Mr. Schaefer be allowed to stay in Hagerstown. Approved. No. 15. The jNIinisterium added to the Synodical resolution this proposition : That the congregation left by Mr. Solomon Schaefer be advised to choose a man from among the pastors of the Ministerium, and whoever goes there inform the President. Motion : That Mr. Heims be examined for the position of candidate, and if found capable, be admitted to the same. Approved. Motion : That every one who desires to become catechist, candidate, or ordained preacher hand to the Ministerium a written account of his life for examination, and that this be preserved in the Archives. Ap- proved. Motion : That Mr. Weigandt, inasmuch as his congregations ask that he be granted a full license, be examined for this purpose. Ap- proved. No. 32. In reference to the petition of the two congregations in Lou- don County, Virginia, that Mr. Joli. Martin Sacknian be received and granted a license, it was moved and approved : That if ^Ir. Sackman passes the examination this petition be granted. No. 33. In reference to the petition of Blumsburg and the four con- gregations united with it, that a lull license bo granted to Mr. Friedrich Engel, it was moved and approved : That he be examined for this jnir- pose, and if he pass the examination the petition of the above congre- gations be granted. SIXTY-THIKD CONVENTION, 1810. 419 No. 35. In reference to the call of Vogt's congregation in Eye Town- sliip, Cumberland, for Mr. Ernst Heinrich Tiedeman, it was moved and approved : 1. That if Mr. Tiedeman passes the examination, he may accept the congregation. 2. That Pastor Muhlenberg and Rev. Mr. Moller examine him. No. 38 In reference to the petition of Schupp's congregation for Mr. Vanhoff, it was moved and approved : That answer be made them it would be more advisable for them to unite with Harrisburg. No. 38. In reference to the petition of the congregation in Jonestown to retain Mr. Vanhoff, it was moved and resolved : That if Mr. Van- hoff passes hLs examination their petition will be granted. No. — . In reference to the petition of Mr. Job. Wilhelm Mayer, from Fincastle, that his license be renewed, it was moved and approved : That the Ministerium has doubts about renewing his license. No. 5. In reference to the petition of Candidate Lange to renew his license, it was moved and approved : That his request be postponed until the next Synod, and that the President inform him of the com- plaints here made against him, concerning his immoral life, against which he shall first defend himself. Approved. Motion : In reference to the petition of the people in Tennessee con- cerning Mr. L. M. Merckel, it was moved and approved, that if Mr. L. M. Merckel pass the examination full license shall be granted him. The following gentlemen were appointed examiners : 1. Pastor Schafer and Rev. Plitt, to examine Messrs. Engel, Sack- man and Heims. 2. Pastor Endres and Rev. Rothrauf take Messrs. Merckel and Osterlo. 3. Pastor Kurtz and Rev. Lochman, Vanhoff and jMeendsen. 4. Pastor Miihlenberg and Rev. ^Moller, Tiedeman and Weigandt. The following candidates handed in their Journals and Sermons : Journals. Sermons. 8. D. Schafer ... 1 1 9. Heine 1 1 10. Riemenschneider . 1 1 11. Hecht 1 1 12. Betis 1 1 13. Sol. Schafer ... 1 1 14. Ullrich 1 1 The catechists gave theirs to the examiners, and the President dis- tributed the papers of the candidates to the preachers for examination, to report in the afternoon. The session was closed with prayer. 1. Sanno . . . Jouraals. Sermons 2. Knoske . . . 1 3. Walter . . . — 4. Kramer . . . — 5. Haas . . . . 1 6. ^Mensch , , . 1 7. ]\Ielzheimer . . 1 420 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. Tuesday Afternoon, 4 o'clock. The session was opened with prayer, after which the business was again begun. The examiners reported : p. Schiifer and Plitt report : ]\Iessrs. Sackman and Heims possess a fair and good knowledge of saving truth ; ISIr. Engel is a man of good promise. They propose the three as candidates. Doctor jNIiihlenberg reports : The sermons of Messrs. Hecht, Betis, Cramer, Ullrich, are good, and that of ^Ir. Jacob Miller he found far above his expectation. Doctor Ilelmuth passes favorable judgment on those of Messrs. "Wal- ter, Mensch, Riemenschneider and Scriba. Pastors Muhlenberg and JNIoller : Mr. Weigant has improved much ; they propose him as candidate ; Mr, Tiedeman, however, they found weak in knowledge ; propose him as catechist. Pastors Endress and Rothrauf judge favorably of Merckel and Osterlo, and propose both as candidates. Pastor Geisenheimer reports that ]Mr. Sol, Schiifer's journal and ser- mon are good. David Schafer's journal very good. Pastors Jasinsky and Roller: Messrs. Melzheimer, Jr., and David Schafer's good, and Haas's shoAvs much diligence. Pastors Dill and Herbst : Mr. Knoske's sermon good, scriptural and edifying. Pastors Kurtz and Lcchman found IMessrs. Meendsen and Yanhoff fairly grounded in Greek, well grounded in Dogmatics. Pastor Endress made report concerning Mr. Ernst, and petitions for a catechist's license for him. 1. The licenses of the following men were renewed : Cramer, Haas, Mensch, Rehman, Melsheimer, D. Schaefer, Kessler, Heine, Simon, Riemenschneider, Miller, Hecht, Batis [Baetis], Sol Schiifer, Ullrich, — Scriba, if he gets congregations. 2. The following received licentia : Mr. Wiegandt, Merckel, Vanlioff, Engel, Osterlo, Sackman, Heims and Meendsen. 3. The following were made catechists : Mr. Willh. Ernst and Tiede- man. 4. For ordination the following were proposed and admitted : l^lessrs. Joh. Knoske, Conrad Walter, Joh. Dietrich Petersen, and it was re- solved that they be ordained this evening. ^ Erapure of a (lisci|plinary action of the Ministeriiirn by which a pastor waa to receive a private censure from the President. SIXTY-THIRD CONVENTION, 1810. 421 Concerning Mr. Rebenack, it was moved and approved, That the Ministerium still hesitates to receive him publicly as a member, but rejoices in his good testimonials from Scheppardtown and Martins- burg. Last year's traveling preacher, Mr. Henckle, handed in an extract from his journal, from which it appears that $40 from the Synodical Treasury is still due him, which was granted him. Motion : That Rev. Mr. Henckle be the traveling preacher appointed by this Synod until the next meeting. Approved. Motion : That $10 from the Synodical Treasury be given each preacher's widow this year, and that each of them get as much from the legacy from Europe as one of the preachers present, that is, $14.50. Approved. Motion: That $50,00 be given to Messrs. Meendsen and Tiedeman each, as a loan to aid them in their studies. Approved, The President closed the Ministerial Meeting with prayer, and in the evening Messrs. 1. John Knoske, 2. Conrad Walter, 3, Joh. Dietrich Petersen were, in a most solemn and impressive manner, consecrated to the ministry. Attested by J. George Schmucker, Secretary. SIXTY-FOURTH CONVENTION. 1811. TRANSACTIONS OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN SYNODICAL MEETING, Held in Philadelphia, on Jv^n 9th, and the Following Days, ISll. On Sunday morning all the preachers assembled in the home of Pas- tor Schmidt, and from there went in procession to Ziou's and St. Michael's churches. The following preached in Zion's : a.m., Dr. Muhlenberg, on I Thess. 4:1; P.M., Rev. Schmucker, on Luke 15 : 2. In the evening, Pastor Lochman, on Rom. 10: 1. Pastor Plitt preached in St. Michael's in the morning on Acts 18 : 5, 6. The spirit of grace and prayer was in our midst, and made the eternal truths of the Gospel important to the pastors themselves ; and the large assemblies of devout hearers justify the hope that lasting benefits were received. On Monday morning at 9 o'clock, all the preachers and delegates assembled in Zion's Church, and the President opened the Synodical Meetinp: v/ith an earnest prayer for the assistance of the good Spirit in the business now to be taken up. The Preachers Present were: 1. Dr. Helmuth (Th. D. Senior Ministerii), Philadelphia. 2. Pastor Schmidt, Idem. 3. Doctor Muhlenberg, Lancaster. 4. Pastor Kurtz, Baltimore, 5. " Schiifer, Germantown. 6. " Dill (Diehl), Plaiufield. 7. " Jiiger, Allenstown. 8. " Lochman, Lebanon. 9. " Schmucker, York. 10. " Ilerbst, Manchester. 11. " Geisenheiner, Whitehall. 422 SIXTY-FOURTH CONVENTION, 1811. 423 12. Pastor Plitt, New Holland. 13. " Roller, Goshenhoppen. 14. " Forster, New Lancaster. 15. " Eudress, Easton. 16. " Jasinsky, Pikeland. 17. " Buttler, Fort Cumberland. 18. " Miibleuberg, Reading. 19. " Knosky, Kutztown. 20. " Walter, Mittelberg. 21. " Petei-sen, Harrisburg. Candidates Present. 22. Mr. Sanno, Carlisle. 23. " Scriba, Traveling Preacber. 24. " Mensch, Springfield. 25. " D. Scbafer, Frederick. 26. " Heine, Macunsby. 27. " S. Scbafer, Hagerstown. 28. " Hecbt, Pottsgrove. 29. " Miller, Gosbenboppen. 30. " Heim, 31. " Ullrich, Ly ken's Valley. 32. " Biitis, Scbiiferstown. 33. " Weygand. 34. " Osterlo. 35. " Vanbof, Jonestown. 36. " Merkel, ["Genesee, N. Y."— in pencil.] 37. " Sack man, Loudon. 38. " Meendsen. 39. " Ernst. 40. " Colsen, Plainfield. 41. " Engel, Catecbist. Preachers Absent. 1. Pastor Streit, witb excuse ; 2. Pastor Melzbeimer, with excuse ; 3. Pastor Carpenter ; 4. Pastor Henckle (Henkel), with excuse ; 5. Pastor Geisenbeiner ; 6. Pastor Rotrauf (Rotlu-auf ), with excuse; 7. Pastor Grobb, with excuse ; 8. Pastor Graeber ; 9. Pastor Spindler ; 10. Pastor Flohr, with excuse ; 11. Pastor Steck, with excuse ; 12. Pastor Stauch, with excuse ; 13. Pastor Ilgen, with excuse ; 14. Pastor MoUer, with excuse. 424 DOCUMENTAKY HISTORY. Candidates Absent. 15. Mr. Stock. 21. Mr. Melzheimer. 16. " Lange. 22. " Kessler. 17. " Sanno. 23. " Riemenscbneider. 18. " Cramer. with excuse. 19. " Rehman. 24. " Simon. 20. " Haas. 25. " Tiedeman, Catechist. The Delegates Present were: 1. Mr. Conrad Haas and Fried. Hockle, Philadelphia. 2. It Schmick, Baltimore. 3. (( Peter Perring, Germantown. 4. « A. Ritscher, Lebanon. 5. i( P. Kissinger, York. 6. <( D. Rauh, Easton. 7. a G. SeU, Lohill. 8. le I. Ringwald, New Holland. 9. (1 A. Menscli, Hanover Congregation. 10. <( D. Schneider, Fissel's Church. 11. ti G. Diery, Pikeland. 12. (( G. Rau, Whitehall. 13. (I A. Gressman, Indianfield. 14. a F. Schmidt and P. Stichter, Reading 15. <( H. Schwartz, Middleburg. 16. <( N. Kreutzer, Carlisle. 17. (( F. Drager, Nockamixon. 18. (1 P. Wind, Macunshy. 19. « J. Brendlinger, New Hanover. 20. ' Gone to Germany. SEVENTY-FIRST CONVENTION, 1818. 521 tion into the Miuisterium ; at the same time there also appeared Messrs. AVilh. German and Fried. W. Geiseuhaiuer, who under hcence as can- didates ad interim, and Messrs. Conrad Miiller and H. Schulz, who as catechists ad interim, had served during several months. Committees were appointed to examine the above applicants. The sermons and diaries of the candidates and catechists were divided among the ordained preachers for examination. A certain Mr. Vorhoff applied for reception into the Synod. The Miuisterium postponed action on the same. It was resolved to renew the licenses of Messrs. Morris and Due. Resolved, That hereafter the candidates and catechists immediately upon their arrival at the place where the Synod is to meet, shall hand over to the Pastor loci their sermons and diaries in a neatly tied packet and with their names plainly written on the same, so that the President of the Miuisterium likewise may be able to hand them at once to the attending ordained preachers for examination. The committee, which had been appointed at the meeting of the pre- vious year, with reference to the Church Agenda, reported that, for various reasons, but five of its members had been able to attend the meeting in Baltimore ; that these five had not been willing to under- take the complete execution of the matters, and that they had con- cluded to lay the work they had done before the whole Miuisterium. The reading of the work done by the said committee was begun and the Miuisterium approved the work, part by part, as much as the time would allow. At 6 P.M. the Ministerium closed with prayer. This evening Pastor Hofmeier, Evangelical Reformed preacher from Lancaster, preached. Thursday, 8 a.m. The session was opened with singing and prayer. A certain ]Mr. Zursiler desired counsel and help from the Minister- ium, saying that he wished to study theology. After a short hearing, and some deliberation following it, the Minis- terium agreed to have nothing whatever to do with the gentleman, nor the above-mentioned Mr. Vorhoffl The Church Agenda was taken up again, but not finished. In accordance with the reports of the examiners, it was resolved : 1. That Mr. Friedrich Wilhelm Geiseuhaiuer be given a license for Pikeland and Vincent as a candidate 2. That Mr. Conrad Miiller be given a candidate's license for the Newstore congregation. 522 DOCUMENTAEY HISTORY. 3. That Mr. Griiber be given a candidate's license for Morlack and Benjamin's churches. 4. That a license be filled out and handed to Mr. Waltz as soon aa he finds a congregation, which he may accept with the consent of the President. 5. That Mr. Schulze be given a candidate's license for the congrega- tions in Nittany Valley and Tucker Valley. 6. That Mr. German be given a candidate's license, with the advice that he avail himself of the counsel and guidance of Pastor Miihlen- berg, and give himself diligently to study. 7. That because of the special wants of the congregation which he is serving, Mr. Schmick be given a candidate's license, but that at the delivery of the same, the President shall explain to him what was the sole reason for granting it, and that if after a year, he does not pass a better examination, he will not be likely to receive his license again, and that the IMinisterium also advises him to be more circumspect in his intercourse with people. The reports concerning the sermons and diaries of the candidates and catechists were handed in. Resolved, That this evening at the public meeting, Messrs. Scriba, Wartman, Ruppert and Strein be ordained deacons. An earnest prayer closed this session. 3.30 P.M. After the customary prayer, it was resolved that Catechist Jager, in accordance with the advice from our venerable Sonior, be given a can- didate's license. The matter of the Church Agenda was now fully concluded. Resolved, That Pastor Kurz, Lochman and Schmucker publish the Agenda, thus completed. Resolved, That a copyright for the Agenda be taken out, in the name of the committee, in behalf of the Synod. Resolved, That the edition shall not exceed 3000 copies. Resolved, That the officers of the Synod shall contribute a corres- ponding committee, to bring about, wherever practicable, a union with the other Evangelical Lutheran Synods in the United States. This evening at the public meeting, Messrs. Scriba, Wartman, Rup- pert and Strein were solemnly ordained deacons by the laying on of hands, and the lately appointed candidates were handed their licenses, with appropriate formalities, admonitions and prayers. Thanks be to our good and faithful Shepherd for His grace ! Un- usual unanimity and the most hearty concord and fraternal aliection SEVENTY-FIKST CONVENTION, 1818. 623 reigned throughout all the deliberations of the Synod and the Minis- terium. These are the fruits of His Si)irit. May they always be in our midst and continually be produced and increased in all our congrega- tions to the honor of His holy name. Amen. Amen. Attest : Christ. Endress, Secretary. SEVENTY-SECOND CONVENTION. 1819. SYNODICAL MEETING Held in Baltimore during Trinity Week of the Year 1819. On Trinity Sunday, June 6, 1819, the attending preachers and dele- gates met in the parsonage, and went in procession to the church. Pastor Geo. Lochman, President of the Ministerium, preached on Mark 16 : 15, 16. In the afternoon Pastor Endress, Secretary of the Ministerium^ preached on I Tim. 1 : 15. In the evening Doctor Schaffer preached on II Cor. 4 : 5. In the Reformed Church, three sermons were also delivered on the same day. In the morning Candidate Keller preached on Prov. 14 : 34. In the afternoon F. T>. Schiiffer preached on II Cor. 4:1. In the eve- ning Candidate Cruse preached on JNIicah 4 : 1,2. In the Otterbein Church, Deacon Sackman preached on Luke 11: 21-26, in the morning. Deacon Rehman preached on Acts 26 : 18, in the afternoon. N. B. — On the previous evening. Pastor Schober, Secretary of the Ministerium of North" Carolina, had preached in the Lutheran Church on John 3 : 5. Monday, June 7th, 9 a.m. The preachers and delegates assembled in the church, and the session was opened with singing and prayer, conducted by the President. The Following Pastors were Present: 1. Dr. Schiiffer, PhiUidelphia. 2. " Kurz Baltimore. 3. Pastor Schober .... North Carolina. 4. " Jjiger Allentown. 5. " Schmucker . . Yorktown. 6. " Lochman . . . Harrisburg. 7. " Endress • . . . Lancaster. 524 SEVENTY-SECOND CONVENTION, 1819. 625 8. Pastor Rothrauff . . . Green castle. 9. " Grobb . . . . Taneytown. 10. " Miililenberg . . Reading. 11. " Moller . . . Chambersburg. 12. " Roller . . . . Goshenhoppen. 13. " Herbst, Sr. . IManchester. 14. " Haas . . . . . Wood^bury. 15. " F. D. SchiifFe r . Friedrichstown. 16. " Melzheimer . Hanover. 17. " Hecht . . . Easton. 18. " Miiller . . . Falconer Swamp. 19. " Ulrich . . . Tulpehocken. 20. Ernst . . . . . Lebanon. 21. " Rebenack . . . Huntingdon. Deacons. 22. Mr. Engel .... . Hamburg. 23. ' ' Meendsen . . . . liCcha Township. 24. ' ' Rehmann . . . . Abbotstown. 25. ' ' Becker . . . . Germantown. 25. ' ' Sackman . . , . Loudon. 26. ' ' Tiedeman . . . Somer.-?et. 27. ' ' Herbst, Jr. . . . Gettysburg. 28. ' ' Hem ping . . . Lyken's Valley. 29. ' ' Scriba . . . . Strassburg. 30. ' ' Filbert . . . . . New Holland. 31. ' ' Probst . . . . Forks Township. 32. ' ' Reck .... . Winchester. 33. ' ' Strein .... Cani . Elizabethtown. )IDATES. 34. M 'r. Osterloh . . . Mechanicsburg. 35. • * Weygand . . . . Wippan and Northern. 36. ' * Heim, Jr. . . . . Mifflin. 37. ' ' Kurz . Hagcrstown. 38. ' ' Keller . . . . Carlisle. 39. ' ' Meyerheffer . . . Madison County, Virginia. 40. ' ' Crusy . Cohensy. 41. ' ' Cramer . . . . . Franklin. 42. ' ' Kessler . . . . Bloomsburg. 43. ' * Trumbaur . . . Leacock, Lancaster County 44. ' 'Hal .... . Catawissa. 526 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY. 45. Mr. Keliler IMartinsburg. 46. " Steelier Macunshy. 47. " Miiller Newstore. 48. " Geisenhainer . . . Pikeland. 49. " Germaun .... Womelsdorf. 50. " Walz Philadelphia. 51. " Schulz Johnstown, Cumberland County. 62. " Griiber Westminster. 53. " ('corrected into "54") Schmiick . . . Sinking Valley. Delegates with Credentials. 1. Mr. Joh. Schorr . . . Baltimore. 2. " Joh. Demuth . . York. 3. " Peter Keller . . . Harrisburg. 4. " Wilhelm Henzel . Lancaster. 5. " Hein. Schmidt . . Greencastle. 6. " Fried. Gel wicks . . Taneytown. 7. " George Matter . . Manchester. 8. " Jacob Bahrdt . . Woodsbury. 9. " George Gelwicks . Friderichtown. 10. " Daniel Barnitz . . Hanover. 11. " Chr. Jac. Hutter . Easton. 12. " Leouhard Stupp . Tulpehocken. 13. " Georg Engelhard . Mifflin. 14. " Barnhard Gilbert . Gettysburg. 15. " Joh. ITaal .... Elizabeth town. 16. " Franz Brotzmann . Hagerstown. 17. " Andrew Emminger, CarHsle. 18. " Ephraim Frey . . Madison County, Virginia. 19. *' Jacob Schmeir . . Macunshy. 20. " Georg Weiss . . . Martinsburg. 21. " Samuel Weidler . . Leacock, Lancaster County. 22. " Christof. Kehler . Bloomsburg. 23. " Andrew Ries . . . Westminster. Accordingly, the whole body of the voting members of the Synod was composed of seventy-seven persons. After they had all taken their regular seats the election of officers was taken up. ' The Secretary ma<, 170 sq., 179 sqq., r.l9 sqq., 204, 212 sqq., 217, 230 sqq., 237, 239, 201. KELLER, BEN J., 483, 486, 493, 498, 502, 505, 510, 519, 525, 527, 535, 540, 546, 562 sq., 569 sq., 572, 581, 583, 585. Kessler (Kerzler), David, 361, 366, 371, 386, 3S8, 390 sq., 393, 397, 405, 410, 412, 414, 416, 420, 424, 436, 440, 443, 448, 464, 474, 480, 483, 610, 519, 535, 547, 662 sq., 570, 572, 584 sq. Kessler, Peter, 505, 507, 510, 520, 525, 535, 547, 558, 502 sq., 507, 570, 578, 581, 584, 587 sq. Kirchner, J. C, 94. Klua:, G. S., 101 sq., 136. Knierulf, C. A., 280, 295. Kohler (Kehler), 505 sq., 510, 520, 526, 533, 535, 547, 562, 504, 571, 584. Knoske (Knosky), Joh., 336 sq.,341, 350, 353, 355, 357, 303, 306, 370 sq., 374, 377, 382 sq., 386, 392 sqq., 397, 4U0, 404 sqq., 410, 414, 419 sq., 423, 425, 429, 432, 436, 440, 442, 445, 447, 450, 401, 464, 480, 485, 492 sq., 497, 504 sq., 507, 518, 528, 534, 545 sq., 549, 554, 561, 563, 565, 569, 572, 576, 580 sq., 583, 585. Kramer, J. P. F., see Cramer. Krauth (Kraut), C. Philip, 538 sqq., 547, 550, 503 sq., 507, 571, 584. Kriigler, Jacob, 528, 533, 538 sqq., 647, 553 sq., 563 sq., 567, 569 sq., 572, 579, 581, 584 sq., 587. Krug, Andreas, 72, 84, 87 sqq., 103 sqq., 113, 117, 119, 121 sq.,1246q., 127,129, 134 sq., 139, 147, 150, 150, 167, 176 sq., 181, 183, 186, 188, 192 sq., 199, 204, 206 sq., 211, 213, 216, 219, 221, 226, 229 sq., 232, 236, 239 sq., 243 sq., 261 sq., 269, 271, 275, 277, 279, 287. Kruse, C. F., see Cruse. Kuhl, 221. Kuhn, Daniel, 88 sq., 100, 104 sqq., 107, 121 sq., 126. Kunze, J. C, 121, 129 sq., 135, 138 sq., 141, 143, 146, 152 sqq., 156, 158 sq., 161, 107, 176 8q.,180 sq., 183 sq., ISO, 189 sqq., 202 sq., 205 sqq., 211 sq., 214 sq.. 219 sq., 222, 226, 228, 230, 234, 230, 239 sqq., 244. 260, 203, 205, 269, 275, 283, 290, 292, 312 sq., 343, 350, 375, 377. Kurtz, Benj., 483, 486, 493, 498, 505, 510, 519, 525, 527, 530, 535, 540, 546, 550, 500, 502 sq., 570 sqq., 574, 580 (?), 581, 583. Kurtz, neinrich, 538 sq., 547, 558, 563 sqq., 570, 579, 581, 584 sq., 587. Kurtz, H. A.. 529 sq., 536, 540, 547, 563 sq., 567, 576. 584, 586. Kurtz .1. D., 168, 194, 196, 198 sqq., 204, 206 sq.. 210 sq., 214, 220, 231, 237, 243, 260, 262 sq., 265. 275, 280, 2S2, 289, 291 sq., 303, 308, 311, 313, 317. 322, 324 sq.. 331, 335, 338, 349, 353 sqq., 302, 305, 373, 375, 377, 385. 387, 392, 395 sq., 399, 402, 408 sq., 412, 410 sq., 419 8q.,422, 425 sq., 429, 431 sq., 435, 437, 439, 447, 450 sq., 460 sq., 403, 472 sq., 475, 483, 485, 489, 492, 497. 603, 507 sqq., 518, 522, 524, 528, 534, 638, 540, 545. 549, 6.53, 557, 661, 663, 666, 669, 671 sqq., 581 eq., 586 sqq. Kurtz, J. N., 3 sqq., 10 eqq., 18 sqq., 24 sqq., 33, 36 sq., 45. 48, 66 sq., 60 sqq., 68 sqq.. 81 sq., 87 sqq., 94, 99, 104 sqq., 108, 111, 113 sq., 117, 129, 137 sqq., 144, 146, 148 sqq., 154 sqq., 160 sq., 167, 176, 178, 181, 186, 188, 192, 194 sq.. 197, 199 sq.. 204, 208 sqq., 216 sq., 219 sq., 231, 237, 243, 201 sq., 207. Kurtz, Wilhelm, 45, 48, 56 sqq., 60 sqq., 66, 69 sqq., 73, 75, 84, 87 sq., 103 sqq., 113, 117, 119, 121, 127, 1::9, 135, 139 sqq., 147, 149 sq., 154 sqq., Iti7, 177, 181, 186, 192, 194, 198, 200, 202, 204, 207, 211 sqq., 216, 219, 225 sq., 230, 233, 237, 243 245, 201, 267 sq., 276, 283, 290 sq., 297 sq., 300, 304, 307. T AMPRECHT. 495. -J-^ Lange (Lang), J. F. W., 280 sq., 283, 285 sq., 290, 292, 298 sq., 304, 309 sq., 314, 318, 320, 324, 335, 341, 351, 355, 365, 370, 380, 393, 398, 404, 411 sq., 414, 419, 423, 433, 438, 441. Langen, Nicolaus, 115. Lehman, Daniel, 152, 164 sqq., 160. 168, 176 sq., 181, 186, 193, 195 sq., 198 sq., 201 sq., 204, 207, 211, 214 sqq., 220 sq., 226, 236, 238 sq., 244, 260, 263, 268, 271, 274 sqq., 279, 283, 285, 297, 303, 309, 313, 317, 322, 325, 328 sq., 341, 349, 354, 375, 385, 392, 394, 397, 402, 410, 413, 553. Liebich, Georg, 300. Leist, Jacob, 425, 432 sq., 439, 442, 448, 452, 481, 506, 519. Lenz, A. W., 240. Laps (Lepps), J. C, 166, 168, 176, 186, 216, 219, -^30. Lochman, Georg, 272 sq., 278 sqq., 282 sq., 285, 289, 291 sq., 297, 299 sq., 303, 305, 308, 310, 312 sq., 317, 322, 326, 328, 331, 334 sq., 338, 340, 342, 345, 347,349, 352, 354, 361 sq., 365,371, 373, 377 sq., 382, 385, 392, 394, 396, 402, 406 sqq., 409, 412 sq., 416, 417 sqq., 422, 425, 427, 429, 431 sq., 435, 437 sqq., 441, 444 sqq., 449 sq., 457, 460 sq., 463 sq., 409, 472 sq., 475 sq., 478, 480, 483, 485, 487, 492, 497, 499, 507, 509, 511, 517 eq., 522, 524, 527 sq., 630, 5.34, 536 sqq., 545, 549,657, 659 sqq., 563, 565, 569, 672 eq., 681 sq., 585 sq., 588. Liitge, A. U., 199, 201, 221 sq., 226, 228, 237, 239, 244, 261, 205 sq., 209, 271 sqq., 278, 284, 288, 295, 302, 319. 596 INDEX II. MACE, 231, 280. Mackard, 293. Mackeuhaupt, 328, 427. Mattes, P. H., 37(i, 3S2 sq. Mau ( Marr, Maw) tfamuel, 276, 452, 460, 519. Meeiidsen (Mundsen),W.,409 8q.,4l2, 414, 4It!, 419sqq., 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 440, 443, 447, 450, 4(52, 4t34, 481, 48ti, 493 sqq., 498, 502, 504, 510, 515 sq., 519,525,535, 5i6, 549, 564, 664 sq., 570, 583, 585. Melsheimer (Melzheimer), F. V., 156 sq., 168, 176, 178, 199 sqq., 204. 207, 209, 211,214. 216 sq., 220, 223 sqq., 229 sqq., 234, 237, 239, 243, 261, 268 sq., 275, 277, 279, 282, 287, 289, 291, 295, 298 sq., 303, 305, 308, 310 sq., 314, 318, 322, 326, 329, .331, 335 sq., 338, 345, 349, 353 sq., 365, 369, 373, 377, 382 sq., 385, 392, 396, 3:i9, 402, 406, 410, 413, 423, 425(?), 429, 433, 435, 439, 443 sqq., 447, 468, 476. Melsheimer, J. F., 361, 366 sq., 371, 397, 402, 404, 406 sq., 410, 414, 419, 423, 436, 440, 443 sq., 448, 474, 480, 498, 604, 518, 525, 527, 534, 547, 561, 564, 569, 572, 581, 583, 585. Mensch, J. N., 342. 346 sq., 350, 355 sq., 361, 364, 366, 370 sq., 374, 376 sq., 382 sq., 386, 392, 394, 398, 404, 410, 414, 419 sq., 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 440, 443 sq., 447, 450, 461, 463, 486, 493, 497, 5U4, 518, 534, 546, 550, 654, 561, 663, 669, 572, 582 sq., 585. Merkel (Merkle, Merckel), L. M., 410, 414, 419 sq., 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 448, 494(?), 519. Meyer (Meier), A. F., 246 sq., 261, 265 sq., .382 sq., 459, 518. Meyer (Meier), L. H., 538, 577, 586, 588. Mever (Mayer), J. W., 397, 406 sq., 411, '419, 433, 519. MeyerhoelFer (^'aeierheffer), Michael, 483, 486, 493, 505, 510, 519, 525, 527, 634 sq., 540, 546, 550, 555, 562 sq., 570, 572, 575, 577, 583. Miller (Muller), Conrad, 507, 610, 520 sq., 526, 536, 547, 566, 582, 584 sqq. Miller (Miiller), Jacob, 311, 394, 397, 400 sq., 405 sq., 410, 414, 420, 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 440, 443, 447, 449, 462, 464, 481, 486, 493 sq., 498, 504, 507, 510, 518, 525, 527, 533 sq., 546, 549, 561, 663, 565, 567, 570, 583. Minni}^ (Menig, Miiiiiiiig, Miiuig, Miin- iiich), 425, 432 sqq., 436. 440, 443 sqq., 447, 451, 462, 464, 481, 486, 493 sqq., 498, 504, 570, 519, 528, 535, 546, 555, 562, 564, 566, 570, 579, 583, 685. Misclilcr, Peter, 112, 114 sq. Moellcr, Friedrich, 322 sq., .325 sq., 332, 335, .337, 341, 343. 350, .355, .361, .365, 370, 374, 377, 386, 391 sq., 397, 399, 404, 406, 410. 413, 418, 420, 423, 435, 440, 443, 446, 450, 464, 473, 480, 483, 485, 489, 492, 497, 504 8(i , 518, 524, 527, 534, 546, 549, 560 sq., 563, 5C9, 575, 581, 583. Moeller (Moller, Muller), Heinrich, 150, ^ 152, lt',8, 176, K(iq., 182, 184, 186, 188, 190, 192 sqq., 208, 214 sq., 220, 222, 226, 228, 230, 236, 239 sq., 243 sq., 260, 263, 265, 268, 270, 276, 279, 282, 285, 290, 292, 297, 299, 303, 305, 309, 313, 317 sq., 321, 3j3. Mohler, 501, 505, 507, 6.'0. Mohher (Mohler), 533, 540. Morris, C. A., 462, 470, 474, 481, 486, 493, 498, 5o5, 519, 521, 531. Muller, Heinrich, see Moeller. Miinnig, .see Miunig. Muhlenberg, F. A., 121 sq., 126, 130, 133, 135, 137, 139 sq., 142 sq., 146 sq., 149 sqq., 154 sqq., 177, 222, 261 sq., 269 sqq. Muhlenberg, H. A., 332, 335, 337, 341, 34.3, 350, 355, 361, 365, 370, 374, 377, 386, 391 sq., 397, 399, 404, 406, 410, 413, 415, 417, 423, 425, 429, 432, 435, 439, 441, 445, 454, 461, 464, 467, 473, 479 sq., 483, 485, 487, 489, 592, 497, 499, 504, 507, 509, 511, 513 sqq., 617 sq., 524, 527 sq., 534, 537 sq., 540, 546, 549, 557, 559, 561, .563, 565, 569, 571, 576, 580 sqq., 585, 589. Miihlenberg, H. E., 121 sqq., 126, 130, 135, 139, 150. 152, 154 sqq., 158, 168, 176 sqq., 180 sq., 186 sqq., 191, 193 sq., 198, 200, 202 sq., 205 sqq., 210 sqq., 216 sqq., 223 sqq., 227. 229 sqq., 235 sq., 239 sq., 245 sqq., 260 sq., 263 sq., 267 sq., 270, 273, 275, 277, 279 sq., 282, 284, 287, 289, 291 sq., 295, 297 sqq., 301 sqq., 305, 308 sqq., 312 sq., 316 sq., 322, 325, 329, 331, HM sq., 338 sq., 343 sq., 349, 351, 354, 302, 369, 371, 373, 376, 385, 387, 392 sq., 395 sq., 399, 406, 408 sq., 412 sq., 418, 420, 422, 425, 429, 431 sq., 435, 438 sq., 441. 443 sqq., 446, 449 sq., 463, 465, 476, 480, 484. Muhlenberg H. M., 3, 5 sqq., 9 sq., 11 sq., 19, 24 sqq., 29 sqq., 33 sqq., 41 sqq., 48 sqq., 57 sqq., 64 sqq., 68 sqq., 73, 75, 77 sq., 80 sqq., 84, 86 .sqq., 104 sqq., 119, 121 sq., ll'4 sqq., 128 sqq., 136 sq., 139 sq., 142, 144 sqq., 154 sqq., 158 sqq., 167, 171, 179, 183 sq., 186 sq., 19.S 195, 199, 204, 211, 217. Miihlenberg, Peter, 13, 90, 104 sq., 107, 112,.119, 137, 217, 352. ISTASMAN, G., 6, 8. -'-^ Neidlinger, Benedict, 328. Nyberg, L. T., 3, 9, 28, 60. OBENHAUSEN (OBERHAUSEN, OBENIIAUSS), J. F., 272 sq., 276, 278, 280, 283, 285, 297, 299, 304 sq., 309 .sq.. 314, 317, 320, 323, 326, 328, 3.33, .340, .34.3, 351. Osterloh (Osterlo), Friedrich, .'<97, 400, 407, 410, 412, 414, 418 sqq., 423, 425, INDEX II. 597 430, 432 sq., 436, 439 sq., 443, 447, 450, 4G2, 464, 466, 474, 477 sq., 481, 486, 4i^3, 498, 5Ul, 6U4, 510, 519, 525, 635, 540, 546, 562, 564, 670, 577, 584 sq. Otto, 160. PARLIN (BERLIN), OLAF, 33, 38. Piiuli, 456. Peters, Richard, 68, 72, 109. Petersen, J. D., 334, 342, 346 sq., 350,352, 355, 366, 370, 372, 375 sqq., 386, 390, 392 sqq., 397, 4(t4, 410, 414, 421, 423, 425, 429, 432, 436, 438, 440, 448, 480, 518. Plitt, C. F., 342 sq., 346 sq., 350, 355 sq., 369 sq. Plitt, Joh., 293 sqq., 298 sq., 301 sq., 304 sq., 309 sq., 312, 314, 320, 323, 326, 329 sq., 332, 335 sq., 338, 340, 344 sq., 349, 353 sq., 363, 365, 367, 369, 373, 377 sq., 385, 387, 392, 394, 396, 399 sq., 403, 405 sq., 409, 413, 415, 419 sq., 423, 425, 427, 429, 432, 435, 439 sq., 443, 445, 452, 454, 528, 539, 547, 551, 570, 583. Preissler, J., 455, 460. Probst, 215. Probst, 441, 454, 459 sq., 462, 464 sq., 470, 474, 478, 481, 486, 493, 498, 502, 505, 507, 510, 519, 525, 527, 535, 546, 552, 562 sq., 565, 570, 572, 582 sq., 585. QUITMAN (QUITTMANX), F. H., 280, 489 sq., 528, 551, 553. "OAlHAUSER, 571,580. J^ Rupp, P. II., 64. Rauss, Lucas, 28, 35 sqq., 39, 58, 94. Rebenack (Rebenach), J. C, 346 sq., 352, 367, 370, 395, 405, 408, 412, 421, 425, 454, 487, 493 sq., 498, 504, 510, 515 sq., 519, 525, 531, 534, 546, 556, 561, 564, 670, 572, 581, 583, 585. Reck, Abraham, 442, 451, 453, 474, 478, 481, 498, 504, 507, 518, 525, 527, 535 sq., 546, 549, 555, 562, 564 sq., 570, 583. Rehman (Riemann, Reimaitn, llichmaii), Conrad, 311, 337 sq., 341, 343, 347, 355, 363, 366, 370 sqq., 374, 377 sq., 382, sq., 386, 391, 393 sqq., 3 9, 404, 411, 414, 420, 424, 430, 436, 440, 443, 448, 474, 480, 483, 498, 504, 619, 624 sq., 546, 562, 564, 670, 583. Eeiche, 234. Reichel, Bishop, 513. Eeichcrt, Adam, 561 sq. Reilv, Jacob, 551. Reinhardt, Joh., 441 sq., 448, 481, 519. Repas (RebHS), J., 494, 498, 501, 505, 507, 510, 532, 546, 562 sq., 666, 570, 572, 581, 584 sq. Riemenschneider, Gcorj;, 369. Rienienschneider, Heinrich, 381, 392, 394, 397, 399, 402, 405 sqq., 410, 414 sq., 419 pq.,424, 436,440.443. 448, 4.54, 474,480, 483, 498, 501, 504, 519, 552, 555, 562, 664, 670, 672, 575, 578, 681, 684. Riess, J. F., 71, 156. Roeller, Conrad, 130 sq., 139, 144, 151, 156, 158 sq., 161, 168, 176, 181, 183 sq., 192 sq., 195 sq., 199 sq., 202, 204, 207, 209, 211 sqq., 217, 219, 225, 230, 232, 234, 236, 239, 245, 260, 263, 265, 268, 271, 275, 278 sq. Roeller, J. G., 298, 301 sq., 304 sqq., 309 sq., 313 sq., 317, 320, 323, 326, 328, 340, 346, 350, 355, 361, 374, 413, 423, 425 sq., 4:i9, 431 sq., 436, 446, 450, 492, 518, 525, 527, 534, 546, 549, 664, 661, 563, 583. Roth, J. J., 61, 65, 68 sq., 71. Roth rauft( Roth raff, Routhrauff, Rudrauf. Rodrauf, Rulhraufl'j, Joh., 272 sq., 278, 281, 283, 285 sq., 289, 291 sq., 294 sq., 298 sq., 304 sqq., 309 sq., 314, 317 sq., 323, 326, 329 sq., 332, 335, 338, 349, 354 sq., 365, 369, 375, 385, 391 sq., 394, 396, 403, 406, 409, 413, 419 sq., 429, 435, 439, 443, 447, 450, 453, 473, 480, 492, 497, 504, 506 S(|., 509, 515, 518, 525, 527, 533, 538, 545, 549, 553, 557 sq., 560 sq., 563, 665, 569. Rudisill, Adam, 434, 436, 442 sq., 451, 464, 468 sq., 474, 479, 481, 495, 498, 579. Riitz (Ritz, Retz), Aug., 246 sq., 264 sqq., 269, 273, 375, 382. Rupert (Ruppert), 468 sqq., 474, 479 sqq., 486, 493, 498, 505, 510, 519, 522, 529, 547, 662, 564, 570, 572, 581, 683, 685. SACKMAN, J. M., 410, 414, 418 sqq., 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 440, 443, 445, 448, 452, 458, 464, 4C6, 474, 481, 486, 493 sqq., 498, 504, £06, 519, 524 sq., 635, 647, 550, 563 sq., 571, 584. Sandin, Joh., 3, 6 s(jq., 12. Sauno, Friedrich, 327, 329 sq., 332, 334 sq., 337 sq., 341, 350, 35.5, 357, 366, 368, 370 sqq., 374, 377, 382, 384, 386, 388, 390 sqq., 395, 397, 399, 404, 4(t6, 410, 412, 414, 419, 423 sq., 430, 432, 435, 440, 444, 447, 450. Schaeffer, D. F., 382, 386, 390 sqq., 394, 397, 405 sqq., 410, 414, 419 sq., 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 440, 443 sq., 447, 450, 456, 464, 466, 474, 480, 486, 493, 498, 6. 225 sqq., 2.30, 2.33 sq., 2.30. 239 sq., 243, 201, 208, 276, 2H2. 285, 287, 2S9, 291 sq., 298 sqq., .304, .308, 310 sq.. 318 sq., 322, 320 8(iq., 369. Schroeder, J. G., 214 sq. Schneider, Abraham, 478 sq., 483, 498, 505, 507, 520. Schober, Gottlieb, 466, 471, 524, 527 sq., 538, 551, 5.53. Schultz, Friedrich, 35 sqq., 132. Schultze, C. Emmanuel, 84, 100, 103 sqq., 107, 112, 119, 121, 127, 129, 133, 139 sq., 150, 1.54 sqq., 107, 176 sqq., 181, 185 sq., 191 sqq., 195 sqq., 202 sqq., 200 sq., 211, 213, 217, 219, 225 sqq., 230, 239, 243, 200 sq., 203, 265, 207 sqq., 271 sq., 274 sq.. 277, 279, 282, 285, 292, 297 sq., 302 sqq., 307 sqq., 312 sq., 317 sq., 322, 325, 330, 341, 349, 354, 373, 385, 392, 407. Schultze, II., 521 sq., 526, 530, 532, 535, 538, 547, 554, 557, 563 sq., 567, 570, 577, 579, 584 sq., 587 sq. Schultze, J. A., 287, 297, 304 sq., 309 sq., 312, 314, 322, 325, 340. Schumacher, Daniel, 115. Schwarbach, Joh., 79, 84 sq., 100 sq., 130, 136 sq., 139. Schwartz, 527 sq. Schwerdfeger, J. Samuel, 56, 59, 61 sq., 04 sq., 80, 99, 121, 124 sq., 130, 139, 141, 143 sq., 147, 150, 168, 176, 192, 220, 222, 201. Scriba, Wiliielm, 332, 335, 337, 350, 355, 300, 370 sqq., 374, 377, 382 sq., 380, 390 sqq., 394. 397, 404, 406, 410, 414, 420, 423. 425. 428, 432 sq.. 435, 440, 442 sq.. 447, 450, 462, 404, 469, 474, 480, 492, 498, 504, 510, 519, 522, 525, 535, 546, 551, 502 sq., 570, 579, 581, 583, 585. Simon. , 381, 388 sq., .395, 397, 400 sq., 405, 408. 411, 414, 420, 424,436 sq., 448, 454, 408, 477. 519. Simon, George, 343, 347, 351. Sparke, Ludolph, 300. Speck, Job., 553, 504 sqq., 570, 575. 579, 581, 584 sq. Spindler, Adolph. 287, 290. 292, 298 sqq., 309 sq.. 314, 324, 335, 338 sq., .351, 302, 305, 375, 380, 398, 403, 410, 413, 423, 436, 448. Stanch, Joh., 265 sq., 269, 271 sqq., 276, 285, 2.S5 sq., 289, 291 sq., 298. 304 sq., 308 sqq., 314. 324, 3,33. 340, 346 sq., 351, 3.55, 305, 309, 371 375 sq., 380 sq., 380, 389 sqq.. 393 sq., 390 sq., 403, 407, 411 sqq., 418, 423. 425. 429, 435, 439, 443, 448. 477, 480, 483, 497, 518, 528, 534, 551 sqq, Stecher (Stacker), 605 sq., 510, 515 sq., 520, 529, 535, 640. 547. 549, 557, 502, 50 4, .506, 571 sq., 581, 584 sq. Steck (Steg), J. Michael, 287. 290, 295. 298 sq., 305. 314 sq.. 318. 320. 324, 326, 333, 3.35, 341, .351. .305, 307, 370 sq.)., 375, 377 sq.. 380. 390. 393, 398, 403, 411 sqq., 423, 425. 429. 430. 440 sqcj., 448. 453, 404. 480, 519, 538. Steck, Michael, 494 sq.. 629. Stein. J. G., 529 sq.. 538. 540. 517. 563, 566 8(1.. 570, .575, 577, .581, .584 sqq. Stock (Stok), Carl, 241, 245, 201, 266, 283, INDEX n. 599 285 sq., 290, 298, 304, 320 sq,, 323, 325 sq., 329, 350, 355, 3tJ6, 370, 372, 374, 377, 382, 386, 392 sqq., 397, 404, 411 sq., 414, 424 sq., 4l'8, 492, 532, 547, 550, 562, 564 sq , 570, 584. Stock, Jos., 272 sq. Stock, V. G., 333 sq., 341. ytoever, I. Caspar, 10 sq., 25, 46, 56, 68 sq., 71, 73, 87 sq., 92, 105 sq., 121, 128, 133 sq., 139, 147. Storck, 302. Stout (Staiit), P. J., 371, 382 sq., 386, 392, 394 sq., 398, 405. 411 sq., 418. Strebeck, Georg, 292 sq., 345. Sirein, Carl, 564 sq., 571, 584. Strein, Jacob, 442, 465, 470 sq., 474, 486, 488, 493, 498, 504, 510, 519, 522. 525, 527, 535, 546, 562 sq., 565 sq., 5/0, 574, 677, 583, 585. Streit, Christian, 88 sq., 104 sq.. 107, 112 sq., 117, 119, 121 sq.. 126, 130, 137, 139, 144, 158, 168, 176, 186, 188 sq., 191 sqq., 195, 198, 204, 213, 215 sq., 219, 2:^3, 243, 261, 269, 276, 282, 298, 304, 308, 314, 331, 335, 338, 341, 345, 350, 365, 369, 371, 373, 376, 378, 386, 397, 402, 410, 412 sq., 423,429, 457. Streiter, 11, 25. T^AXXAPFEL, C. B., 201. Tennent, W. 74. Tiedeman (Friedman), E. H., 397, 400, 406 sq., 410, 412,414,419 sqq., 424 sq., 433 sq., 436, 44-3 sq., 447, 455, 464, 481, 486, 493 sq., 498, 504, 519, 525, 535. Tranberg, Peter, 7. Trumbauer (Trumbaur), Samuel, 505, 507, 510, 520 525, 5.S5, 546, 562 sq., 570, 572, 578, 581, 584 sq., 587 sq. UN.\NDER, ERIK, 42. Ulrich (Ullrich, Ullerich, Uhlrich), Daniel, 397, 400 sq., 406, 410, 414 s(iq., 419 sq., 423. 425 sq., 430, 432 Sq., 440, 443, 447, 449 sq., 4.55, 462, 4ti4, 474, 481, 483, 486, 493 sqq., 498, 500, 504, 610, 518, 525, .5.34, 546, 549, 561, 564 sq , 669, 572, 574, 581, 583, 585. VAN BUSKERK (Buskerk, Busch- kirch, Bushkirk), Jacob. 87 .sq., 103 eq., 107, 112. 114 sq.. 121, l.W,139, 154, 156. 168, 176 sq., 179, 182, 184, 186. 199 sqq., 204, 207, 211, 217. 219, 22.5, 232, 236, 239, 2(iO, 264, 268, 275, 277, 279. 283, 297. 304, 309. Vanhoft' (Vonhof ). ,410,412,414,419 sq., 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 439 sq., 443, 447, 450, 454, 462, 464, 474, 481, 483, 486, 494 sq., 498, 504, 518, 547, 554, 561, 564, 570, 583. Vigera, J. F., II, 29 sq. Voii,'ht, J. Ludwig, 84, 86 sqq., 103 sqq., 107 113, 118, 121, 123 sq., 126 sq., 1.30 sqq., 139, 141 sq., 150, 154 sqq., 158 sqq., 167, 176 sq., 179, 181, 184, 192, 194, 199, 201, 207, 211 sqq., 216, 219, 223, 226, 228, 2.30, 236 sq., 239, 261, 269, 276, 283, 304, 306, 315 sq. Vonhoff, 521. WACHTER, Michael, 538 sqq., 647, 563 sqq., 567, 571, 584. Wackerhagen, Aug., 549, 552, 573. Wade, , 167 sq([. Wagner, Tobias, 11, 25, 29. Walberg, F. A., 114. Walter, J. Conrad, 355 sq., 361, 366, 370, 372, 374, 677, 382, 3^4, 386, 392 sqq., 397, 399, 404, 406 sq., 410, 414, 419 sqq., 423, 425, 430, 435, 440, 443, 447, 450, 461, 463, 472 sqq., 4«0, 483, 485, 489, 493, 497, 504, 507, 5 1 8, 529, 534, 558, 579. Walter, Martin, 483, 507, 520. Walz, Ludwig, 520, 522, 526, 550, 563 sqq., 567, 571, 675, 584, 588. Wartman, 462, 464, 470, 474, 481, 493, 510, 519, 522, 547, 561, 664 sq., 570, 578, 583, 685. Weigand. Heinrich, 397, 400 sq., 406 sq., 410 (?), 414, 41» 6(|q., 423, 430, 432 sq., 436, 440, 443, 447, 450, 462, 404, 474, 478, 481, 483, 493, 504, 619. Weinberg, 105. Weiuland, J. F., 214, 217, 219, 225, 227, 230, 2.'<3, 236 sq., 23!» sq., 260, 262, 2t6, 268, 270, 276, 278. 283, 338, 347. Weyand (Weygand, Weiandt, Wieandt), 436, 440, 443, 447, 451, 454, 457, 464, 481, 48fi, 519, 532, 535, 547, 550, 562, 566, 570, 578, 584, 586 sq. Weyer (Weyher, Weier), Anthony, 418, 441 sq., '445. Weygand, Albert, 27 sqq., 33, 36 sq., 39, 46 sqq., 57, 59 sqq., 63 sqq., 70 sq., 99 sq. W'hite, William, Bishop, 178, 514. Whitefield, George, 68, 74, 80. Wichterman. G. Joseph, 238 sq., 243, 245, 261 i-q., 264 sqq., 269, 276. Wiegand, Giinther, 246, 261, 264 sqq., 271 sq., 275, 277, 279 sq. Wigand (?), 312. Wildbahn (Wildban), C. F., 92 sqq., 104 sq., 118, 121, 123, 126 .sq., 130, 132, 134 sq., 144, 147, 150, 156, 168, 176, 182 sq., 186, 191, 193, 196, 199 sq., 204, 206 sq., 211 sqq., 216, 219, 224 sq., 239, 243, 260, 262 sq., 265, 2ti8, 271, 275, 277, 282, 284 sq., 289, 291, 297, 302 sq., 308, 314, 318, 322, 341. Wrangel, D. C. M., 45 sq., 48, 56 sqq., 68 sq., 71, 73 sq., 77, 82, 84, 93, 99 sq. ^OUNG, J. G., see Jung. ZASLETN (Jaslein, Joslein), J., 469, 476, 487, 489, 501. Ziegenhagen, F. M., 3, 49. Zimmerman, Wilhelm, see Caqjenter. Zink, Heinrich, 232 sq., 466, 470. Zunkel, .501. Zursiler, 521. INDEX III. LOCAL INDEX. NoTF. — Peculiar iHQiculties were connected with the preparation of this index, especially those arising trom the confused spellinj^ and the frequeiitly iudetiuite refereucfs of the Protocol. Mitiiy coii^iegatioiis c.in thii - be traced only through the County or 'I'owusbip iu which they are, or were during tlie period covered. Where State is not mentioned Pennsylvania is anderstood, or the State could not be determined. Principal variations in orthography are noted in parenthesis. AARONSBURG (Arensbur?), 278, 280, 341. 340, 364, '6S6 sqq., 392,403, 448, 485, 487. Abbottstowa (Abbettstadt), 214, 300, 305, 310 sq., 375, 378, 386, 397 sqq., 435, 448, 474 sq., 498, 525, 534, 546, 548. Adams Co., 365, 368, 390 sq., 400, 403. Albaiiv, N. Y., 115, 122, 125. All):nrv Twp.. Pa., 115, 122, 125, 266, 278. Albeuiial (Albany, Pa.) (?), 311. Alexandria, 502. Allegheny Twp, Westmoreland Co., 287. Alleghenv, Lancaster Co., 263, 270, 305, 3f)3, 403, 454. Alleghany Co., Md., 530. Aliein:ingel r Allemingao), 283, 297, Allentowii, 70 sq., 104, 130, 178, 191, 261, 264, 266, 278, 422, 435, 446, 448, 456, 461 sq., 473, 48o, 509, 511, 524, 545, 547, 569. Allen Twp, Northampton Co., 215, 342, 417, 424. Amher.st Co.,Va.. 337. Amitv Twp., Berks Co., 308, 355. Appel's Church, 335, 403. Armstrong (^o., 501. Arndt's Church, 368, 400, 402, 404. Atolheo, see also Swatara, 122, 263, 277. Augusta Co.. Va., 276, 290, 295, 332, 335, 337 sq., 360, 366, 550. BALTIMORE, Md., 124, 143, 200, 207, 210, 214 sq., 231, 237, 260, 263, 269, 275 sq., 282, 2S6, 289 sq., 295 300, 303, 308, 313 sq., .317, 319 sq., 325 sq., 331 sq., 3.35, 342, 349, 351, 355, 365 .sqq., 369, 373, 376 sq., 385, 387, 392, 397 sqq., 402, 409, 411, 414. 422, 424 sqq., 435, 447, 461 .sq., 473 sq., 485 sq.. 492, 497, 508 sq., 511, 520 sq.,524, 526, 637, .541 sq.. 545, 651, 568, 669. Bald Castle, 357. liardstown (Beardstown), Ky, 465, 469, 547. Barren Hill (Barnbill). 60 sq., 63 sq., 70, 1(»4 sq., 127, 153, 263, 267, 269, 355, 402. 437. Bartle's Church, 355. 6U0 Bauer's Church, 386. Bauermau's (Brierman's) Church, 317, 356. Beard's Church, Md., 281. Beaver Co., 501. Beaver (Biber) Creek, Md. (?), 402. Beaver Dam, N. Y., 247. Beavertown ( Beaverdam, Biberdam), Sny- der Co., 361, 364, 404, 587. Beber (Biber) Creek, Lancaster Co., see also Earltowu, 63. Bedford Co., 280. Bedminster Twp.. N. J., 70, 104 sq., 136. Bedmiuster Twp, Bucks Co., Pa., 238,332, 335. Bellefonte. 477. B'elman's Church, 266. Belmont Co., 0., 441. Bender's Church, 346, 368, 390 397 sq., 400, 402, 404, 410 sqq., 436, 441. Benjamin's Church, Md., 512, 522. Berger's Church, 405. Bergkirche, 262, 273, 278, 355, 362, 402, 454. Berestrasse, 182, 263, 270, 363, 403 sq. Berlin, Adams Co., 570 sq. Berlin, Somerset Co., 281, 283, 290, 298, 318, 320. 335, 346, 351, 386, 455, 528, 539, 547, 553. Bermudi.in, see also Upper and Lower Bermudian, 272 sq., 276 sqq. Bern Twp., Berks Co., see also Nordkill, 122, 4(10, 458. Berne (Berneville\ see also Nordkill, 263. Bieber's Church, 278. Bindiiai^el's Church, 278, 355, 362, 402, 531, .534, .577. Bishop Congregations, 123. Blevmeyer's (Bleiraeyer's) Church, 247, "264; .3.33, 429. Bloomsburg (Blumsburg), 418, 436, 447, 449, 4(;2 sq., 474, 486 sq., 499, 510, 525 so., 547 sq., 570. Blue Slonntain.^ (also "Blnuberger"), 71, 81, 115, 19, 1.59 (?), .3,33 sq., 537. Bohn's Church, Ten., 404. Bord's Church, Md., 402. Briar Creek. ."m8. Brick Church, see Upper Windsor. INDEX III. 601 Brooks Cape, Va., 287. Brother's Valley Twp., Somerset Co., 533. liruii's Valley, 278. Brunswick (Braunschweig), 325, 334 sq. Brush Creek (Brosclikrick), 284, 287. Brush Valley (Brosche Valley), 305, 319, 3()4, 403. Bucket's Creek, 3C1, Buffalo, N. Y., 436, 447, 449, 462, 474, 498 sq. Buffalo (Buffloe), Pa., 273, 278, 280. Buffalo Valley, 357, 486 sq. CAMPBELLTOWN (Cammell's, Cam- pelstadt), 273, 278, 365, 362, 402, 404. Canshanuick Creek, 301. Carlisle, 151, 178, 188, 199, 201, 214, 2.34, 278,287, 304 sq„ 309, 314,317, 319 sq., 333 sq., 337, 341, 343, 350, 365 sq., 374 sq., 386 sq.. 392, 397 sq., 404, 410, 412, 423 sqq., 436, 439, 447, 462 sq., 474 sq., 482, 486 sq., 494, 498 sq., 510 sq., 525 sq., 546, 648, 570 sq., 582. Castleman's Paver, 281. Catawissa (Cotovesse, Katawissen), 320, 325, 335, 386, 392, 397, 610 sq., 625, 558. Cavetown (?) (Catestown), Md,, 403. Centre Co,, 501 sq., 556. Ceiitreville, 546, 670. C'hambersburg (Chainberstown), 178, 269, 271, 284, 293 sqq., 298, 309, 314, 316, 318 sq., 325, 341, 343, 350, 365 sG, 58 sqq., 63 sqq., 70 sq., 79 sq., 88, 91, 94, 103 sqq., 112, 123, 128, 130, 138 sq., 144, 148 sq., 151, 157, 177, 180 sqq., 186, 191 sq.. 194 sqq., 198, 202, 207, 210 sq., 213, 230, 236, 242 sq., 260 sq., 263, 208 sqq., 275 sq., 279, 282 sq., 285, 289, 297 sq., 303 sq., 308 sq., 313, 317, 319, 322, 324 sq., 331 sq., 335, 340, 342, 344 sq., 349, 351, 356, 365 S(|q., 369 sq., 373 8(|., 376, 382, 385, 387, 390, 392, 396, 398 sq., 402, 410 sq., 414, 422, 429, 435, 446, 448, 484 sqq., 492, 497, 499, 509, 511, 617, 524, 526, 537 sq., .545, 548, 654, 559, 569, 571, 575, 581 sq. Langen's Church, 357. Lang.sdorf s Church, 272 sq., 278, 439. Langstown (Lang's), 319, 364, 559. Langstaufier's Church, 299. Leacock Twp., Lancaster Co., 510, 525 sq., 547 sq., 570. Lebanon, 60, 63 sq., 105, 133 sq., 139, 141, 177, 192, 198, 202, 207, 213, 223, 225, 2.30, 237, 245, 262, 273, 276, 278 sq., 283, 286, 289 sq., 293, 297 sq., 303 sq., 308 sq., 313 sq., 317, 319, 3:i3, 331,33.5, 340 sq., 345, 349 sq., 3.55, 362, 365 sq., 373 sq., 377, 382, 385, 387 sq., 392, 396, 398 sq., 409, 411, 422, 429, 435, 446, 448, 484 sqq., 492, 497, 499, 509, 511, 517, 524, 526, 537 nq., 545, 548, 554, 559, 569, 571. 575, 681 sq. Lehigh (Lecha) Twp., Northampton Co., 498, 510 sq., 525, 546. Lehman's Church, 405. Letterkenny, 325. Lewisl)urg, 333, 424. Lewistown, 466, 471. Lexington, Ky., 280. Limestone, Ky., 280. Limetown, Pa., 130, 139. Linden, 199. Lisbon (Lisburn), O. ; see New Lisbon. Lisburn (Lisbon), Pa., 416. Little Cove, 679. Little Lehigh (Lecha). 343, 346. Little Muschanuon, 485, cf. Muskannon. Lohill(?).424. Lonc.staflF(?), 404. Loudon Co., Va., 352, 375, 378 sq., 405, 604 INDEX III. 412. 418. 423, 436, 448, 474 sq.. 486. ! 498, 525. I Lower lieiinu7, 214,220 sq.. 230, 236, 260, 263, 268, 275, 277, 343. 317, 319, 322, 341. 346, 349. 385, 387, 392, 576. Mosser's Vnllev (Mosserthal), 404. Mount Bethel.' 364, 403, 416, 447, 449, 462 sq., 474, 478, 487. Mount Jov. 137, 188, 226, 240, 247, 269, 271, 282, 284, 298, .390. 404. Muddy Creek (.Modeiikrick, Modeorieck, Modekriek), 70 182, 209. 263, 270, 284, 287, 363, 403, 454. Miiller's Church, 281. Muncv (Mundsen) Twp., Lvcoming Co., 3;>5, .3.')7, 404. Muskannon, see also Little MuschanoD, 509. Muskingum Co., O., 441. NAZ.\RETH, 277, .306. Nel.son Co., Ky., 500, 530, 556, 573. Nescopeck, .''56. Neshaminy (Chnmoni, Schemini), 35, 39. New Alicmangel, 272 sq. Newark, N. .1., 74. Newberry Twj)., York Co., 272, 501. New Berlin, 403. INDEX III. G05 Newburg, 84. Newcastle, Del, 151. New Germautowu, N. J., 64, 70 sq„ 84, 104 sq., 122, 126, 136, 191, 234. New Geniiaiitown, O., 484. New Goschenhoppen, 39, 131, 159, 209, 215, 240, 264, 272 sq., 276, 2788q., 2S2, 290, 297 sq., 314, 319, 355, 405. New Hanover (sometimes referred to as Hanover); see also Faulkuer'slSwamp, 3,7, 9sq., 24, 28, 30, 33, 35, 42sq., 48, 60, 62 sqq., 70, 86 sqq., 104 sq., 112, 123, 130 sq., 153, 155, 157 sqq., 178, 186, 191, 193, 198 sqq., 209, 215, 221, 227, 230, 235 sq., 238, 260 sqq., 268 sqq., 278, 314, 317, 319, 322 sq., 331 sq., 335, 340 sq., 345, 349 sq., 355, 373 sq.. 377, 389, 394, 424, 449. New Holland (Holland) ; see also Earl- town, 178, 188, 199, 201, 207, 209, 214, 216, 230, 236, 260, 263, 268, 270, 291, 304 sq., 309, 319sq., 323, 329, 3.'.2, 335, 340, 345, 349, 363, 365, 374, 377, 385, 387, 392, 396, 399, 403, 409, 411, 423 sq., 435, 452, 454, 462 sq., 474 sq., 486 sq., 498, 510, 525, 546, 548, 570. New Jersey, State of, 3, 60, 63, 184, 279. New Lancaster, 423, 428. New Lisbon (Lisburn), O., 386, 436, 448, 497. New Madrid, O. (?), 357. Newmarket, Va., 362, 365 sq., 373, 386, 396, 409, 4J9._ New Pennj^ylvania, O., 357. New Philadelphia, 498. New Providence ; see Providence. Newrv, 502. Newstore, 510, 521, 526, 547 sq. Newton, N. J., 356. Newtown {Xewstadt, Neustadt), Va., 264, 3^2, 402. Newville, 533, 547 sq., 570 sq. New Virginia, 381, 383, 442. New York (City), 33, 45 sq., 59 sq., 62 sqq., 69 sqq., 75, 94, 99, 104, 130, 135 sq., 139, 143, 149, 191, 194, 207, 230, 236, 260, 263, 269, 276, 290, 293, 313, .343 sq., 350, 375, 386. 400, 435, 447, 478, 529. Nice (Nicen's, Weiseu's) Church, 320, 323, Nittany Valley, 522. Nockamixon, 342, 361, 364, 424. Nordkill (Nordkiel); see also Berne, 3, 7, 10, 24, 63 sq., 71, 144, 222, 390, 392, 394, 397 sqq., 405, 410 sq., 415, Northampton Co., 186, 199, 209, 365, 385, 425, 431, 447, 449, 462 sq., 486 sq. North Carolina, State of, 244, 319, 375 sq., 378 sq., 389, 470, 478, 482, 488, 524, 527, 538, 550. Northumberland Co., 323, 400, 402, 405, 454. North Wales (Northwalsch, Welsch), 200, 295, 319, 427. Nova Scotia, 96 sqq., 132. "pkBWALL TVVP.," .361. vy Octorara, 183, 403. Ohio, State of, 370, 375 sq., 386, 389 sq., 393, 397, 400 sq., 425, 428, 442. 447 sq., 454, 460, 466, 468, 500, 506, 552. Oley, 62, 71 sq., 570. Opossum Creek, 277. Orwigsliurg, 546. Owen's Creek, 123, 127. PARADISE, 71, 79, 188, 287, 309,319 sq., 323, 332, 335, 344. Pawliug.vkill, N. J., 199, 201. Paxton, 368. Peaked JMountain (Picket Mountain), Va.. 283, 290, 304. Pennsborough (Pennsburg), see also Ea^t Pennshorough, 284, 498, 510 sq. Pennsbrook, Va., 362. Pennshill, 273, 278, 280. Penn Twp., Northampton Co., 332, 403. Penn Valley, 270, 2S0, 300, 305, 310, 548. Pequea, 363. Perkasie f Birkensee"), 30 sq. Peter's Church, 287, 363, 403, 439. Petersburg, 502. Philadelphia, O., 479. Philadelphia, Pa., 3 sqq., 12 sq., 24, 28 sqq., 33, 35, 45, 50, 59,61 sqq., 68 sqq., 72, 75, 81, 83 sq., 88, 91, 103 sqq., 127 sqq., 137, 139 sqq., 143, 146, 149, 151, 153, 161, 177, 181, 186, 189, 191, 193 sq., 198, 200, 202, 206 sq., 210, 213, 230, 234 sqq., 240, 243, 246, 260 sq., 263, 268 sqq., 272, 275 sq., 279, 282 sq., 285, 289 sq., 297 sq., 302 sqq., 309, 311, 313 sq., 317, 319,322 ^q., 325, 331 sq., 335, 340 sqq., 345, 349 sq., 355 sq., 360, 365 sqq., 369, 373 sqq., 385, 387 sq., 392, 396, 398, 400, 4('2, 409, 411 sq., 417, 422, 424, 429, 435, 446, 448, 461 sq., 468, 473 sq., 482, 485 sq., 488, 49U sq., 513 sqq., 524, 526, 531, 546 sq., 574 sq., 586, 588. Pickaway (Packaway) Co., O., 439. Pigeon Creek, 400 sq. Pikeland (Peikstown, Pikestown), 88,104 sq., 112, 118, 122 sq., 127, 131 sq., 141 sq., 144, 177, 181, 191 sq., 207, 213, 230, 236, 269, 306, 314 sq., 325, 333 sq., 342, 350, 355, 386, 392, 409, 423 sq., 446, 473, 510 sq., 521, 526, 531, 545, 547 sq., 569 sq. Pine Grove Twp., Schuylkill Co., 833 sq., 337, 350, 447, 449, 462 sq., 498 sq. Pine Ridge (Peintritsch), 2»1. Pipe Creek, 94. Pittsburg, 455, 462, 474. Plainfieid Twp., Northampton Co., 3G4, 385, 387 sq., 392, 399, 403, 4U9, 412, 415, 422 sq., 435, 446, 498, 510 sq., 547 Points Creek (" Points Erick "), 122. Pott.sgrove Twp., MontKomerv Co., 423 sq., 436, 447 sq., 462, 474, 509, 611, 545. Pottstown, 410, 571. Powellsford, Va., 287. G06 INDEX III. Providence (New Providence), see also Trappe, 3, 7, 9 sq., 13, 24, 27 sq., 3U, 33, 35, 39, 44, 4S. 62 sqq., 70, 77, 84, 87 sq., 104 sq., U2, 118, 122, 127, 131, 158, 161, 184, 2()2 sq., 271. QUICKEL'S CHURCH, 247, 262, 264, 2iJ9, 271, 403. Quiertown, 281. RACOON, N. J., 59, 64, 71. Ramapi) (Remuiersbach), N. J., 70. Raritan, N. J., 27 sq j., 39, 45 sq., 59, 62. Read Creek, 309. Reading, 39, 49, .59 sq., 63, 70 sqq., 75, 84, 88, 103 sqq., 118 sq., 121, 125, 134 sq., 141 sqq., 151. 1.54, 178, 183, 186, 191, 193, 196, 199, 202, 207, 213, 2,7, 219, 224, 236, 260 sq., 263, 265, 268 sq., 271, 275, 277, 282 sqq., 291, 297, 303, 316, 319, 322 sq., 330, 332, 335, 339, 341, 346, 351), 3.56, 365, 374 sq., 386, 397, 404, 410, 423 sq., 4.36, 441, 448, 461 sq., 473, 485 sq., 497, 499, 509, 511, 546, 548, 569, 580. Red Land (Rotliland), 287. Redstone, 179, 266, 269. 271. 273, 283, 289 sq., 309. Reitz's Church, 404. Rennsallaer, N. Y., 247. Rhinebeck, N. Y., 70 .sq. Richmond Twp., Berks Co., 63, 75, 88, 263. Rickert's Church, 439. Rido'e 284 287. Ried'sTRie'tli's)" Church, 277, 402, 4.39. Ringer's Church (Ringert's) Va., 287, 363, 493. Riter's Church, 280. Rockfish Gap, Va., 337. Rockingham (Ruckeuheim) Co., Va., 192, 297, 309, 323, 329, .337, 375, 378, 386, 389, 391, 400 sq., 407, 412, 415, 448, 474, 498, 571, 578. Rockland Twp., Berks Co., 263, 303. Roekv Hill (Rockhill) Twp., Bucks Co. (?), 130. Roeder's Church, Va., 287. Ri)hrersburg, 402. " ilosenthiil," 122, 125. Rowan, N. C, 350. Ri)w s ( Rauen's, Rau's), 356, 361, 364, 559. Rupho, 2G4. Rye Twp., Cumberland Co., 419, 455. Q.VLEM CHURCH, Va., 266, 333, 337, *^ 3.55, 363, 404, 555. Sali.sbury Twp., Lancaster Co., 9. Salsburg (Salisl)ury, Saitzburg) Twp., Le- high Co., 90, 104, 111, 114, 12 J, 264, 266, 278, 405, 425, 427. SaUzl)urg Twp., Northampton Co. (?), 342 sq. Sarauelis Church, 4.W. Sanders' Church, 455. Battler's (Sadler's) Church, 247, 264, 278, 281, 287, 325, 363, 403. Saucon (Saccum, Saccona), see also Upper Saucon, 3, 7, 10, 28 sq., 64, 70 sqq., 88, 90, 104, 111, 114, 264, 266, 277, 319, 405. Schaefcrstown (SchaefersUdt), 122, 126, 263, 277, 402, 416, 423, 436, 449. Schauman's Church, Md., 287. Sciierersburg, 4(>5. Scherer's Cliurch, 284, 291, 295, 300, 316 S(|., 325, 355, 551, 558. Schneblev's Church, 363. Schocholy, 533. Schupp's Church, 419. Schiitzen's Church, 272 sq., 278. Schuster's Church, 245, 247, 264, 278, 281, I 287, 325, 363, 403. j Schuylkill Co., 486 sq., 532. I "Schwartzwald," 404. " Schwaben Criek," 299. Seller's Church, 327. Selinstrrove (Silsgrove), 317, 356. .^161, 364, 404, 474 sq., 485, 4s7, 497, 499, 559.' Sharaokin, 144, 152, 181, 192,194,227,233 sq., 404. Sharpsburg (Scherpsburg), Md., 94, 287, 355. Shenandoah Co., Va., 192, 227, 260 sq., 269, 290, 297, 301, 304, 314 sq , 317, 323, 329, 332, 335, 340, 345, 349. Sheppardstown (Scheppert.'^town, Shep- herdstown, Shepherdsburg), Va., 199, 201, 264, 284, 323, 325, 367, 405, 421, 489, 548. Shepp's Church, 412. Sherman's Dale (Schierraansthal, Scher- raau's) Valley, 284, 287, 290, 404, 488 sq. Shippensburg '^Schippenstown), 178, 226, 237, 239, 284 sq., 293 sqq., 301, 316 sq., 325, 404. Silver Run, Md., 192, 403. Sinking Valley, 368, 404, 481,502, 510sq., 526, 547, .570 sq. Smithfield, 403, 416. Smithlield (Schmidtfield), W. Va., 310, 367, 405. Solomon's Church, 363, 366. Somerset Co., 365, 367, 393, 447 sq., 455, 486, 498, 525, 532, 546, 553 sq., 570. South Branch, W. Va., 477. Speiser's (Spvse) Ciiurcii, 308, 404. Springfield twp., Bucks Co., 280, 299, 327, 342, 346, 350, 356, 361, 3(i4, 3f<6 sq., 392, 410, 423, 4.36, 446, 461 sq., 486 sq., 497, 499, 510. 546, 548, 569. Spruce Creek, 361, 368, 404, .502. Stiihley's (Stehle's) Church, 264, 363,439, 53;<, 5.50, 557. Stark Co , O., 438. SlauflVrt..wn, Md., 178, 264, 362, 402. Staunton (Stenton, Stentown), Va., 282, 308, 351, 448. Stein's Church, Va., 264. Steiner's Church, 2S0. 363. Steltzen's Church, Md., 278, 281, 287, 3^3, 337. 363. Stettler's Church, 0., 469. INDEX iir. 607 Strasburg, Franklin Co., 546, 558. iStrasbiirg, Laucaater Co., 187 sq., 270, 350, 403, 454. 400, 4U2, 4S8, 496, 525, 570. Strasburg, Va., 192, 194. Stoyestown, 455, 554. Stuiiipstowu, 529, 540, Sugar Creek, O., 479. Sunbury, 4i.'5, 439, 447. 449, 462, 486 sq., 510 sq., FAG, 548, 570. Swamp (Sehwamm) Cliurch, 403, 412, 416, 439, 454, 474. 4S(J sq. Swatara ; see also Atolheo, 71. "Swiftneugap," Va., 2o4. 'pANEYTOWN (Tawneytonn, Tarry- -*- town, Danetown,L>auiiitown, Danny- town, Downeytown, Downingtown), Md., 122 8(1., 2-J6, 2(il, 209, 271, 275, 277, 284, 291, 312, 319, 322, 332, 341, 350, 365 sq., 374, 377, 38(5. 39tj, 398, 403, 436, 448, 473, 475. 485, 197, 499, 525 sq. Tennessee, State of, 37(>, 38!»,419,428,565. Thomas Creek ; see also Emmittsburg, Md., 94, 122, 264, 277, 403. Tinicum Twp., Bucks Co., 327, 342, 361. Tohickon (Toheka), 28, 39, 41, 45, 131, 139, 141 sqq., 200, 263, 278, 280, 301, 314, 317. Tolvin Twp.(?),488. Towamensin Twp., Montgomery Co., 403. Trapp, Ya., 363. Trajjpe, Pa.; see also Providence, 461, 473, 485 sq., 497. 499. Trendel's (Trentel's) Church, 287, 404. Trexler's Church, 239. Trough Creek, 404. Trumbauer's Church, 272 sq., 278. Trumbull Co., O., 391, 403. Tucker Yalley, 522. Tulpehocken, 3, 5, 9 sqq., 21 sqq., 27 sqq., 39, 46, 60, 63 sq., 68, 70, 72, 88, 90 sq., 103 sqq., Ill, 113 sqq., 117, 126, 129, 139, 150, 155 sq., 177, 181, 186, 191, 193, 198 sqq., 207, 213, 230, 236, 248, 256, 259, 263, 265, 282 sq., 297 sq., 303 sq.,308 sq., 313 sq., 317, 319, 322 sqq., 341, 349, 373, 385, 387, 392, 400 sq., 412, 415 sqq., 425 sq., 429, 436, 447, 449, 462 sq., 474 .sq., 486 sq., 498 sq., 501 sq., 525 sq., 546, 548, 569. Tuscarora Valley, 332 sq., 336 sq., 404, 466, 471. Twien Church. O., 469. Tyrone Twp., Blair Co., 361, 502. UNION CO., 546, 570. Upper Berniudian fOber Permu- dian) ; see also Bermudian, 188, 264, 290, 337. Upper Dublin, 61, 70, 200, 210, 277, 295, 402. Upper Milford (Uppermilfort), 3, 7, 10, 28, 30. 70, 72, 88, 90, 104, 111, 114, 264, 266. 269, 271, 276. 278, 369. 405. Upper Saucon (Saccnm) ; see also Saucon, 46, 264, 266, 278, 3<)9. Upper Windsor; see also Windsor, 115. VEYK, N. Y.. 347. Vincent Twp., Chester Co., 63, 315, 319, 340,345sq., 374, 521,531,545, 547. Virginia, State of, 136 sq., 144, 155, 178, 192 sqq., 199, 201, 214, 230, 237, 261, 264 sqq., 276, 284, 287, 309, 319 sq., 342, 350 sq., 365, 367, 376, 389 sq., 401, 414, 428, 466, 473, 488, 531, 570 sq. Vollmer's Church; see Folnier's Cliurch. WALDSBOKO (Waldsburg), Me., 383, 448. Wallkill (Wahlkiel), N. J., 70. Wallpaek, N. J., 356. Warrington, 553. Warry Eun, 501. Warwick Twp.. Lancaster Co., 88, 114 oq., 117, 122, 126, 130, 178, 251, 265, 402, 412, 415 sq., 424, 447, 462 sq., 486 sq., 498, 546, 548, 570 sq. Washington Co., 400 sq., 436, 441, 447, 449, 455, 474. Washington Twp., Northumberland Co., 501. Weigemerck, 361. Weisenburg Twp., Lehigh Co., 122, 125, 264, 278, 304, 314, 319, 3li3, 328, 340, 345. Werth's Church; see Paxton, 364, 368, 384. Wenrich's (Wenrick's, Weinrich's) Church, 277, 352, 404, 576. Westmintiter, Md., 526, 547 sq. Westmoreland, Va., 178. Westmoreland Co., Pa., 221, 314. .3.35. Whitehall (Whitehead, Whiteliill) Twp., Lehigh Co., 130, 139, 147, 177, 261, 319, 323, 340, 345, 374, 377, 386, 392, 410 sq., 422, 424, 436, 446, 474. White Marsl), 70, 104. Whitendalil ; see also Eichmond, 71, 88. White Oak (Weiseiehen, Weiseichenland), 122, 126, 240, 247, 264, 400, 402, 405. Whitpain(Whitpen, Whitepene, Wippan, Weeping)Twp., Montgomery Co. ,210, 242, 268, 277, 295, 304, 352, 3S6, 389, 392, 399, 401 sq., 412, 415, 425 sq., 436, 447, 449, 462 sq.,'486, 525. Wicaco (Wicae), 45, 50, 59, 66, 129, 139. Wilkesl)arre, 502. Williamsburg, 531. Williamsport"^ (Williamsburg), Md., 287, 362 (?), 489. Williams Twp. (Williamstown), North- ampton Co., 247, 262, 264, 269, 271, 275 sqq., 282, 290, 297, 303, 308 sq., 314, 317, 364, 403. Wilmington, Del., 45, 59, 63 sq., 71. Winchester, Va., 71, 74 sq., 92 sq., 192, 194, 213, 220, 264, 269, 284, 331, 335, 341, 345, 350, 362, 365 sq., 373, 376, 380, 402, 429, 437, 447, 453, 474 sq., 498, 525, 546. Windsor Twp.. Berks Co., 263, 283, 489. Winter's Church, 264, 277, 403. Wolf's Church, 262, 403. 608 INDEX III. Womelsdorf, 322, 340, 402, 415, 510 sq., 526, 547. Woodcock Valley, 375, 404. Woodbury, Md., 322 sq., 375, 378 sq., 405, 526. Woodstock, Va., 192, 194, 436, 474, 488. Wrightaville, 474 sq., 486, 498 sq. Wythe Co., Va., 324, 332, 335, 338, 341, 346, 350, 3G3, 393, 435, 448. YORK (Yorktown), 3, 7, 24 sq., 28sqq., 66, 70sqq., 73 sq., 79, 93 sq., 104, 111, 113 sq., 129, 139, 150 sq., 157, 181, 185 sq., 188 sq., 191 sqq., 199, 202, 207, 210, 213, 217, 223, 237, 244 sq., 247, 260, 263, 268, 273, 282 sq., 285, 289, 291, 297 sq., 303, 309. 313 sq., 317, 319 sq., 331 sq., 335, 340 sqq., 346, 349 bqq., 362, 365 sqq., 373 &q., 376, 390, 403, 4U9, 411, 422, 424, 4«, 446, 448, 461, 473 sq., 485 sq., -0*3, 497, 499, 509, 511, 524, 526, 545, 547, 569, 571, 575, 582. York Co., 346, 350, 363, 365 sq., 374, 377, 447, 449, 455, 462, 474 sq., 486, 498 sq., 510, 533, 540, 546 sqq., 550, 557, 569 sqq., 577, 588. Yount,'stown (Jungmanstadt) ; see Jung- man's, 364, 403, 555. ^lEGEL CHURCH, 272 sq., 278, INDEX IV. LAY-DELEGATES TO SYNOD, "With Names op the Congkegations which they Kepresented, and Years of Service. Name. Flacb. Tear. A CHINBACH, HEINRICH Newville 1821 -^^^ Albert Elizabethtown 1816 Alleman, Nikolaus Hummelstowu 1820 Altimus, Joh Germantown 1801 Anspach, Balthes Tulpehocken 1748 Appel, Andreas AUentown 1814 Appel Springfield 1816 Appleman, Joh •••... New Jersey 1762 Arndt Bender's Church 1809 Austatt, Georg Luzerne Co 1812 "OAHRDT, TACOB Woodbury 1819 -^ Baldy, Paul Sunbury 1794,1813 Eager Abbottstown 1815 Bantleon, G Philadelphia 1802 Bardt, Joh Greencastle 1803 " " Hagerstown 1808 Barnet, Joh Easton 1808,1818 Barnitz, Daniel . Hanover 1809 Barnitz, Carl Hanover 1819, 1821 Bart, Joh Leacock ....••... 1820 Bartner, Joh Fissel's 1808 Bauer, Friedr Elizabethtown 1820 Beaver , Lebanon 1818 Beck, Nicolas Elizabethtown 1813 Becker, Georg A Philadelphia 1802 Becker, Heinrich Germantown 1802 Becker, Joh York County 1820 Beil, Balthes Paucon 1748, 1750 Beil, Jacob Westminster 1820 Beilson, Joh Easton 1805 Beisler Goschenhoppen 1810 Bendel (Brendel), Freidrich Baltimore 1803, 1806 Benteman, Joh Hamburg 1820 Bentleman Easton 1817 Berkheimer, Heinrich 1807 Berly .... Cumberland 1810 Bey, Christian Tulpehocken 1808 Beyer, Andreas Nordkill 1748 Beyer, Carl , New Planover 1748 39 609 010 INDEX IV. Name. Place. Year. Beyer, Frederick Greencaatle 179(3 Bever, Valentine Kew Hanover 18U7 BiCKEL Keading 1818 BlEBER,JOH Kutztowu 1813 " " Pemi's Valley 1821 BiEBER, Theobald Kutztown • . Is21 BiEDiNGER, NicoLAUS Couewago 17G3 BiLLMEYER, JACOB York 17G3 Billmeyer(Brillmyer) York 1813 BiRNBAUM Philadelphia 1815 Blanck, Georg Adam New Hanover 1805 Blaser, Peter Carlisle 1814 " Newviile 1820 BOGEN, Andr Frederick 1803, 1809 Bohn, Jacob Berlin, Adams County . . . 1821 Bordner, JoH York County 1813 Braunig Macungie 1817 Breitenbach Tulpehocken 1818 Brendlinger New Ilauover 1811 Brillinger York 1813 Brotzman, Frantz Hagerstown 1819 Brotzman, Joseph Bloomsburg 1820 Brotzman Eastou 1813 Brua, Peter Tulpehocken 1802 " " Harrisburg 1821 Brumbach Hagerstown 1811 Bucher, Jacob Lebanon 1804 BuscH, Andreas Philadelphia 1814 Buss, Peter Hanover 1802 pARL. GEORGE McAllister 1800 ^-^ Carr Macungie 1818 Clark, Samuel Greencastle 1817, 1820 Conrad Mechanicsburg 1817 Coultas Kingsessing 1762 Croesman, B Goschenhoppen 1750 ■TiEIBERT, MICHAEL Whitehall 1763 ^^ Deily Plainfield 1818 Degler "VVomelsdorf 1818 Derr, Philip Middletown 1803 Dermuth, JOH .York 1819 Deutsch York 1769 DiEHL, Carl • York Co 1821 DiEHL, Peter York 1799 DiELSHOFER, MiCHAEL Cohensy 1750 Diery, Georg . . . , Nice Church 1802 Pikeland 1821 DiLLER, Peter New Holland 17v)9 Drager, F Nockamixon 1811 Drehkr, Adam Bloomsburg 1814 DuNKEL York 1817 DuY, Jacob • Germantown . . 1813, 1814, 1818 "PBERHARD. BERNARD 1807 ^^ Eherle. Joh Philadelphia 1750 Eberle, Michael , . . . . Cliambersburg 1794 Ebert, John Frederick 1818 Ebrrt, Martin . . • York 1807 Ebert New York 1762 INDEX IV. en Nabw. Place. Ykab. Egolf, Jos Carlisle 1808 Ehkle Jonestown 1817 EiCHELBERGER Hagerstown 1817 EisTER, George Lyken's Valley 1821 Elser, Peter Warwick 1814, 1816 Embich, Jacob Lebanon .... 1806, 1809, 1817 Emig, Carl York Co 1813 Emmerich, Jacob • . . Manheim, Berks Co 1808 Emmerich, Jos Forks Twp.. . - 1820 Emminger, And Carlisle 1812, 1819 Enderlein Lyken's Valley 1810 Endress, Joh Lebanon 1820 Engel, Frederick Gerraantown 1750 Exgel, John Germantown 1763 Engelbrecht Germantown 1817 Engelhardt Mifflin Co 1819 Ernst, J. Nic Kutztown 1812 Eye, ^IlCHAEL Germantown 1748 Ever, Joh Middleburg 1813 Eyster New Lisbon 1816 TpASSNACHT, JOH Middletown, Md 1798 Felde, Ernst Germantown 1821 Fessler, Joh, Frederick 1820 Filbert, Peter Reading 1793 Filbert Nordkiil 1809 Filbert Pottsgrove 1810 Fischer, Jacob Tulpehocken 1763 Fleck, Conrad Sinking Valley 1821 Fleischer, Andreas New Holland 1814 Flohr, Valentine Gettysburg 1821 Fox, Thomas Hummelstown 1821 Frey, Eph Madison Co., Va. . . 1819, 1820 Frey, Joh Germantown 1805 Frey Chambersburg 1815 Freytag Pikeland 1818 Fricke Philadelphia 1816 Friess Wrightsville 1817 Fritz, Friedr Reading 1807 Fuchs, Joh New Hanover 1813 " " CenterviUe 1821 (H AERTNER, P York 1801 ^^ Galentin, Jacob . . "Warwick 1820 Gallman, Heinrich Middletown 1800 Ganer Hamilton 1S16 Gebhardt, Joh Somerset 1806 Geiger, C Fischer's Creek 1811 Geiser, Taneytown 1817 Geinmer, Friedr Easton 1802 Gelwicks, Carl Hagerstown 1800 Gelwicks, Friedr Taneytown 1819 Gelwicks, George Frederick 1819 Gelwicks, Nicolaus, Hanover 1806 Gemer . . Huntingdon 1810 Gerber, Ch IVIanchester .... • . . 1820 Gerbering, Philip Jonestown 1820 Geyer, Andreas Philadelphia 1803 Gilbert, Anton Phihulelphia 1748 Gilbert, Bernhardt Frederick . 1804 612 INDEX IV. Namb. Plaoi. Yiar. Gilbert, Bernhardt Gettysburg 1819 Gilbert, Heinrich i^ew Hanover 1793 •' " Lebanon 1799 Gilbert, Jacob Bender's Church 1812 GiLLMAN, Adolph Germantowu 176o GoERiNG, Jacob Goscheuhoi)i)en 1804 Grabber, Adam • . . • York 1803 Graeber (Kraeber), Joh. . Carlisle .... 1800, 1815, 1816 Graef, Caspar Philadelphia ...... 1750 Graf, Andreas Tulpehocken 1820 Gressman, a Indianfield 1811 Grim, Peter New York 1762 Groefle, George Germantown 1795 Gross, Heinrich Lancaster 1794 Gross, Mihcael Lancaster 1748 Grothausen, John Germantown 1748 HAAK Tulpehocken 1815 Haal (Hall) Elizabethtown .... 1818, 1819 Haas, Conrad Philadelphia,1799,1800, 1811, 1813 Haas, Jerome Providence 1748 Hacker, George Germantown 1804 Haffner, Joh Greencastle 1806 Hahn, George Fissel's 1806 Hakky, Christian Hagerstown 1796 Halman, Heinrich Whitpain 1813 Hammer. • . • Hagerstown 1816 Hammer Schuylkill Co 1816 Haner, N Allen Twp 1811 Haner Pennsborongh 1818 Hartman, Michael 1814 H aster, Joh Tulpehocken 1812 Haupt, Heinrich Williams Twp 1795 Hauser Northampton 1816 Hay (Hew), Joh York 1796, 1810, 1820 Heck, Joh Chambersburg 1800 Hecker, D Lewisburg 1811 Heckman, Adam Northampton Co 1813 Hehns, Jacob Chambersburg 1805 Heilig Germantown 1810 Heilman, Anton Providence ... • . . . . 1748 Heisle, Dr. Friedr Frederick . . . 1812, 1813, 1815 Heist, Heinrich New Hanover 1804 Heist, Thomas Winchester 1806 Heist Whitpain 1816 Heller, Friedr Keading 1804 Helms Kutztown 1816 Hknger, Friedr Augusta Co., Va 1806 Henkel, see Hinckel and HiNKEL . . . Henzkl, WiLHELM Lancaster 1819,1820 Heppe Marietta 1815 Herre, David Hagerstown 1812 Herrman, Michael Whitpain 1814 Herter Aaronsburg 1816 Hetzel, Jacob 1807 Hetzler, Andreas Woodbury 1807 Hill, Jacob Kutztown 1820 HrLTEBRAND, Conrad Hagerstown 1820 Hinckel, Solomon New Market 18