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1994.AN
PRONOUNCED AT THE LAYING OF THE
OF
NEW-YORK,
OCTOBER 22, 1821;
WITH THE
ON THE OCCASION.
BY F. C. SCHAEFFER,
PASTOR OF CHRIST CHURCH, NEW-YORK.
PUBLISHED AT THE REQUEST OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN
CHURCH COUNCIL AND CONGREGATION.
NEW-YORK :
PRINTED BY E. CONRAD,
4 FP.ANKFORT-ST.
1821.TO THE

OF THE
9
IN THE
UNITED STATES,
THESE PAGES
RESPECTFULLY INSCRIBED,
87
THE AUTHOR*ADDRESS, &c.
SALUTATION.
Iif the Name of Jesus Christ, I greet this assembly;
May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace in
faith, that you may abound in hope, through the power of
the Holy Ghost, so be it.
PRAYER.
Thou, O Lord, art our God and our Father, and the
Rock of our Salvation. Thou art greatly to be feared in
the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all
them that are about thee. The heavens are thine, the earth
also is thine : as for the world, and the fulness thereof, thou
hast founded them. Justice and judgment are the habita-
tion of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy
face. Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound:
they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.
In thy name shall they rejoice all the day : and in thy righ-
teousness shall they be exalted.
God of mercy! we thine unworthy servants need thy
grace.
Send us thy saving help from the sanctuary, strengthen
us out of Zion, replenish us out of the fulness of thy house,
and cause thy face to shine upon us.
Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory
unto their children. And let the beauty of the Lord our
God be upon us : ami establish thou the work of our hands:
yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.< « )
Our Father, who art io heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom pome. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in
heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And, forgive uk
our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for
ever and ever. Amen.
HYMN 6.
1.	From all that dwell below the skies,
Let the Creator’s praise arise;
Let the Redeemer’s name be sung
Through ev’ry land, by ev’ry tongue.
2.	Eternal are thy mercies. Lord,
Eternal truth attends thy word.
Thy praise shall sound from shore to shore,
Till suns shall rise and set no more.
PSALM lat.
1.	I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my
help.
2.	My help cometh from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
3.	Re will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will
not slumber.
4.	Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
5.	The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right
hand.
6.	The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
7.	The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy
sou!.
8.	The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this
time forth, and even for evermore.
—----
Beloved Friends,
Words, as welt as ceremonies, are signs by which
ideas are to be conveyed to the understanding, and impressed
on the heart.
When important truths and sacred obligations are em-
phatically expressed, by proper solemnities, on public occa-
sions, such exercises are entitled to attention and reverence*
It has long been customary in our venerable church, on
occasions like the one which has convened us, to set forth
some of the most salutary doctrines, and to direct the atten-
tion of the beholder unto those spiritual subjects which be-
long to our peace. All our Christian rights have substantial
and momentous objects in view : and whatever is undertaken
and applied, consistently with the gospel of Jesus Christ,
and in the spirit of his holy and perfect religion, will be
subservient to the best cause, and the highest purpose.
Influenced by sueh considerations, and prompted by the
purest motives, some of your friends and fellow Christians,
have resolved to erect a house of worship on this spot—and
have thus made a solemn ceremony requisite at this time.
This is a new era in the remarkable history of our church
and congregation. It is a pledge, that the dark clouds
which, for so long a season, have loured round the Luthe-
ran community in this city, are dispelled. The prospect
brightens. We indulge the fond hope of smiling Jays.
Many who now hear me are well acquainted with the great
difficulties which have hitherto prevented the establishment
of an English Evangelical Lutheran Church in New-York,
in close connection with the Ancient ChuFcb, in wliieh the( 8 )
religious services have formerly been conducted in th£ Ger-
man language exclusively, but of late years, alternately in
that and in the English tongue. Many, who experienced
the value of our privileges and advantages, and who were
ready to acknowledge the responsibility of those who enjoy
the administration of the word and ordinances as obtains in
our church—many, who were convinced, that the better it
is upheld and supported, and the farther it is extended, the
more conducive will it be to the diffusion of correct religious
principles and pure morality, were nevertheless alarmed at
the peculiar obstacles which presented themselves. Some
forsook, and endeavored to forget the sanctuary of their
fathers. Others were inclined to hang their harps on the
willows.—With weeping eyes they looked on the hill of their
Zion, which had so signally proved that her walls are sal-
vation, and her gates praise. Nay, they apprehended the
destruction of the glorious edifice which their pious fathers
had erected.
On the other hand, there were some, who could not be
appalled by unavoidable trials ; and while they acknow-
ledged the existence of melancholy and even humiliating
circumstances, felt their hearts beating for the cause of our
small remnant in this most populous American city. Ani-*
mated by affection and gratitude, they cherished the me-
mory of their meritorious ancestors—the remembrance of
those things which God had wrought for the salvation of
the people, by means of the Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Yes, they felt the blood of Protestants and Martyrs flowing
in their veins; and while they deplored that many who were
the descendants of Luther’s countrymen, the offspring of
German parents, by their conduct denied their noble origin,
the worthy sons of the church obeyed the solemn call:
Jlwake, awake, put on thy strength, O Zion, put on thy beau-
liful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city.
The conviction was strong in their minds, that many who
are nowr neither cold nor hot, scarcely attached to any
church, or perhaps entirely irreligious, and alas! candidates(	9	)
for eternal misery, would in all probability have been useful
citizens, and valuable members of this church; that many,
Who, with their growing families, hasten onward in sin’s de-
structive way, would be in full communion with Christ and
his believers, had there not been too much yielding to unfa-
vorable circumstances, and had there been more Christian
zeal and unity, more prudence in all things, more concern
for the prosperity of our Zion.
Indeed, it is one of the most serious calamities that can
befal a land, a religious community or Christian congrega-
tion, when the stay and support of the house of God is taken
away, when the souls of men are in danger of famishing,
and when the services in the church, and the discharge of
ministerial duties, are hindered and prevented. And well
may the priests, the Lord’s ministers, mourn, to use the lan-
guage of the prophet Joel’s beautiful book, when the meat-
offering and the drink-offering is cut off from the house of
the Lord; when the field is wasted, when the land mourneth
because the corn is roasted, when the new wine is dried up,
and the oil languished.
God knows, that every worthy member of our church re-
joices in the prosperity of all Christian congregations, and
delights in the evidences of their increasing numbers and
piety. Christian love and tolerance are essential principles
of our faith; and, though as natives or eitizens of this happy
country, we may fully claim our precious and protected
right of using « liberty of conscience,” in 46 the free exer-
eise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship,”
and though in some points we may differ from our Christian
fellow-citizens, still, we love them, and extending the right
hand of fraternal affection, we call them brethren.
The true members of our community are charitable to-
ward all men, whether of their own household of faith, or
the supporters of another denomination. They are obli-
gated to give the most decisive proof of their devotion to
Jesus Christ, and to hear the most unquestionable test*-
n( ID )
mouy, that they are the followers of him who loved us9 and
gave himself for us.
If we prefer our own, we do not contemn any other reli-
gious society. Grateful for the abundant evidence of the
excellency of our organization, we deem it justifiable to de-
clare oar conviction, that the advantages which are afforded
in our church, are exceeded by none, however extensive or
admired. And while we are far from uu-churehing any re-
ligious sect* we aver that no one has a right to say, that our
church is not an evangelical and apostolical church.
Blessed be God ! he left not himself without witness among
Us.—We know and feel that he is with us9 filling our hearts
with food and gladness. Glory -be unto God ! he has revealed
himself to us, and sent us his Son, Jesus Christ, in whom
we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness
of sins ; Und by whom we, and every one that repents and
believes, can come unto a reconciled Father. The Spirit of
truth, even the Holy Ghost, whom the Father sends in the
name of Jesus, lias visited us, my brethren, and the divine
promise is directed to us, and indeed it has been confirmed :
lie shall beach you all things. We thank God for all the
means which we enjoy in our church, by which we may
learn, understand, and practically declare his holy will.
And we rejoice with thanksgiving before the Lord, because
lie has given us our great •« symbolical99 book—the Bible.
This is preferable to all the “ books99 and « confessions" Of
tiien. According to a fundamental principle of Lutherans,
we depend hot merely on the irrigating streamlets that ori-
^nate in the fountain to which we have access, but wo
rather drink from that fountain itself.* The study and pro-
per interpretation of the sacred writings, accompanied by
the use Of all outward helps which God’s Providence has
furnished, and aided by fervent prayer in the acceptable
* When speaking of Symbolical Books and Confessions, &c. the great
Luther says : “ Trinkt doch vielmehr aus dem Brunnen selbst, als aus
den Flussiein, die aus dem Brunnen geleitet siod.”( “ )
name of Jesus Christ the Mediator, is mainly inculcated in
the Evangelical Lutheran Church.
For all this we laud thy name, O Most High and Gracious
God! And above ail, we bring unto thee the incense of
grateful and devout hearts, for thy condescension, thy love
and thy mercy, that thou hast laid a tried, a sure, and ever-
lasting corner stone in Zion, even Jesus Christ* the Racfc of
JLges !—Men and brethren, on Him we build our faith and
our hope*
Nothing is more remote from my disposition or intention,
than to draw invidious comparisons between our church,
and any other Christian association. Nor would 1 seek for
defects among others, and point out, by way of contrast, the
superiority of the Evangelical Lutheran administration*
And I trust I shall not be accused of selfishness or over-
weening partiality, if I declare my firm conviction, that as
real Evangelical Lutherans, we are by no means less liable
than others to become good and happy.
As a single evidence of this, and as a proof that we call
no man master, nor uphold the idea of instantaneous eon'-
yersion and sudden piety, hut endeayor to lay a sv#tfoun-
dation, \ye may mention the course of instruction and en-
couragement to religious investigation# which is a primary
object in our church.
It can be fearlessly asserted, that to the earlyaud judi-
cious lessons, to the careful instruction in the fundamental
principles of religion, and to the series of lectures which
the youth of our church receive, previous to the ratification
of their baptismal covenant, and their voluntary, public and
solemn profession of Christ, and their approach to the sa-
cred ordinance by which we commemorate fhe JRetfeemer’s
dying love, commune with him, strengthen ,our love toGod
ami man# and refresh our souls with meat wild drink frtfl*
heaven—to the course preparatory to the apustpUcal and( *2 )
impressive solemnity of laying on bands by the ordained
pastor of his own congregation, and to the holy impulse
which confirmation is calculated to produce, may be attri-
buted some of the most eminent instances of piety, some of
the most blessed effects that have been witnessed in the.
Christian church of modern times*
Circumstances, it is true, have caused the estrangement
of many who may now be exemplary members of other re-
ligious societies. But, though some may not have consci-
entiously endeavored to realize the proffered blessings pre-
vious to their separation, still, we are too sure to doubt,
that many, here and elsewhere, cannot sever the tie that
binds their feelings to their first good home, the first pure
source of sacred knowledge, and the cause of their earliest
religious impressions.
If any have been transplanted to another husbandry, and
have there been watered by Apollos, receiving the increase
from the same God and Saviour to whom they were directed
from the beginning, they know where Paul planted, and
where the seed wa$ sown. O! they would not be so un-
grateful to the affectionate care of their parents, and the
memory of the pious, the indefatigable and departed Kunze,
as to deny through whom they obtained their earliest and
most valuable treasures. Even now, the recollection of
your early days is revived, your first germ of piety is pre-
sented to your mind’s eye j and if you have a heart that
feels, and that is devoted unto the great Head of the Chris-
tian Church, you cannot refrain from glorifying God, and
remembering, with gratitude, his goodness and his grace*
And if we possess the evidences of his goodness and his
grace, to our portion of his church, shall we be indifferent?
Shall the means whieh, thanks be unto his Name! have been
blessed to hundreds and thousands, nay millions, be dis-
countenanced ?(	13	)
Granted, that there are churches and religious institu-
tions which may be deemed equal to our own, in their spi-
ritual advantages, yet, my brethren, our church and our in-
heritance must not be forsaken :—They must not be suf-
fered to decay and to be forgotten; no ! to cease our labor
would be sinful—to faint would be disgrace. And why
should we forsake the first love, and cut off the usefulness
of our church, and cause our candlestick to be removed out
of his place ?---Long may this light be truly sweet, and may
it ever be a pleasant thing for the eyes to behold this sun—
may it continue to shine before multitudes of men, that they
may see the abundance of good works, and glorify the Father
who is in heaven /
We make the concession, that in this countiyr, too much
importance has been attached to the difficulty concerning
the original language of our church. But no man in his
sober senses could ever have seriously argued that our doc-
trines are confined to the German tongue, any more than
the pure gospel of Jesus is restricted to any language, na-
tion or country. Every one who is acquainted with church
history, and with the state of religion, knows, that there
are worthy Lutherans among many nations, and that their
religious performances are conducted in various tongues.
Yet it ought not to be forgotten that a German raised the
standard of the blessed Reformation. Had not the princi-
ples of sound religion and Christian freedom been fostered
by means of the German language ; had it not been used in
the temples and schools of pur ancestors, and in the publi-
cations which the spirit of Protestantism produced, what
would have been the religious and political state of Europe
and the world ?
It is just and proper, therefore, that in this country and
city, where Germans and their descendants have cause to
prefer its use in their devotional acts, they should enjoy it;C 14	)
and no reflecting man will harbor a desire to expel or pre-
vent the necessary use of a language to which, under God,
the world is so greatly indebted. But things are certainly
in an extreme condition, where it is suffered to egcroach.on
the vernacular tongue. Where circumstances are well con-
sidered and rightly understood, and this should be the ease
among conscientious Lutherans, an arrangement is always
practicable by which the word of the Lord may have free
course, and be glorified.
It is true, in the only Evangelical Lutheran Church in
this city, the gospel is statedly administered in the German
and English languages. Such, however, is the present state
of affairs, that the families and numerous promising youth
of our connection should have more frequent opportunities
to attend the public administration of the Word, in the lan-
guage they understand. It is highly probable, that without
the arrangement of which the solemnities of this day give
an earnest, our congregation would be subjected to serious
injury, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the city of
New-York, notwithstanding our excellent privileges and
constitutions, would become extinct. It is therefore desire-
able, that its interests should be secured, by the erection of
another edifice, for the benefit of the rising generation, and
for all those who would become members, on condition that
divine service be exclusively performed therein in the Eng-
lish tongue, the language of our country. While the funds
for the contemplated church are to be raised by subscription,
the aneient house oi worship, namely “ Christ Church,0 is
set apart, and properly endowed, for the accommodation of
the brethren who prefer the use of the German language.
An equal number of Elders, Trustees and Deacons from
both congregations will constitute a Church Council, whose
duty it will be to superintend the concerns of both
churches; and thus, the two branches of the Lutheran So-
ciety in this city, will still remain in close connection as one
family.( *» )
This work Is undertaken and commenced, not from oppo-
sition to any other church, hut from the conviction that it
may become eminently instrumental in promoting the honor
of God, and the highest interests of those who are, and who
may be connected with us.
Beloved people of my charge ! Our object is noble, and
our cause is good. We have in view the preservation and
firm establishment, of a pure and fair portion of Zion, in
this great and flourishing metropolis. We desire to entail
on our children and our latest posterity, the glorious privi-
leges confirmed to us by our persevering ancestors ; in the
enjoyment of which, they lived happy, and died blessed.—
Surely, if we are united, sincere and upright in our prayers
and efforts, the blessing of the Lord will be upon us ; the
Mighty God and Saviour of our fathers, will be with us ;
the sons of Luther’s countrymen will prove that they are
not degenerate, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church, in
New-York, hitherto oppressed, and, as it were, held in bond-
age, by peculiar circumstances, will put on her strength,
will dare to he free indeed, and will shed blessing and hap-
piness around!
But let it be remembered by all who now listen to the
undisguised declaration of our sentiments, that the Lutheran
Church is not confined to Germans or their descendants. I
repeat, it is not limited to nation or country. It is estab-
lished in every quarter of the globe. Among its most ex-
emplary members, are enrolled the natives of the North,
the South, the East and the West, and different languages
and dialects are employed in the solemn services of Luthe-
ran temples. It has no tenets or regulations other than
those whieh are derived from the pure Gospel of Jesus
Christ, for whieh Luther contended, and for the triumph
of which, he was assuredly a memorable instrument in the
hands of the Almighty.( )
We disclaim the very idea of being the partisans of a
man, or that we are associated merely for the perpetuation
of Luther’s name. While his memory is dear to us, and
while we profess our veneration for his character, our gra-
titude for his services, and our adherence to the grand
Evangelical Principles, which he, by the help of the Mighty
God, dared to urge upon the attention of the world, at a
time when all flesh seemed to have corrupted its way9 and
the earth was filled with violence ;—while we glory in the
good way to which he directed erring nations, we do not
acknowledge his opinions as our only authority, but we are
influenced by that inspired volume, and guided by that pure
word, which was a lamp unto his feet, and a light unto his
path.
The appellation of “ Lutherans” was against his will,
and inconsistent with his most positive declarations ; and it
was only by reason of a peculiar concatenation of events,
that the name has been retained.
Our Church is Evangelical—it is a remnant of the first
fruits of the Blessed Reformation—it is a branch of the re-
vived Christian Church—it is built upon no other founda-
tion and corner stone than Jesus Christ.
Luther labored not merely for his own kindred and coun-
try, but for successive ages and generations. Of all men
whom the last series of centuries produced, Luther render-
ed greater services to mankind, and laboured more abundant-
ly than they all; yet not lie, but the grace of God which was
with him.
At present it is more extensively admitted than formerly,
that no religious or political institution can be salutary and
prosperous, unless it is established on the principles for
which be became the successful champion.
The time will come, when the merit of his work shall be
amply and universally appreciated.C **	)
When the walls of the beauteous temple which is to be
erected on this spot, shall have been dilapidated by the hand
of time ; and when the countless generations by whom God
shall have been worshipped here, in spirit and in truth. are
translated from this sanctuary to a house not made with
hands, Luther will not be regarded as a polemic or secta-
rian, but as a benefactor of the human family $ and the
world, freed from films and fetters, will acknowledge the
large debt of gratitude it owes to the illustrious Reformer.
Yea, the way is even now preparing for the advent of a glo-
rious era. Ignorance, superstition and bigotry shall be
chased from the abodes of men.—The totterihg throne of
tyranny shall be cast down.—How goodly will be the
tabernacles of human tribes!—Truth shall spring out of
the earth ; and righteousness shall look downfrom heaven.—
Expectant nations shall receive religion’s best boon.—Surely
there is no enchantment against the Gospel of Jesus, neither
is there any divination against the triumphant church of the
living Godf the pillar and ground of the truth.—0 Lord,
thou art my God ; 1 will exalt thee9 i will praise thy name ;
for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are
faithfulness and truth !
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts, Heaven and Earth
are full of thy Glory! Hallelujah! Amen!
Response of the Choir and Congregation—Chmnting:
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of Hosts;
Heaven and Earth are full of thy Glory;
Hallelujah—Hallelujah—Hallelujah—Hallelujah £
Amen—Amen!
Dear Brethren,
Except we build in the name of the Lord, we labor
in vain. If our religion, our faith and our works, do not
exhibit the truth as it is in Jesus, our hope shall be cut off,
and our souls cannot eome unto that security, that city of
refuge, that eternal rest which remains unto the people of
God.	e( 18 )
Jesus Christ is therefore to be considered as the comer
atone and foundation, on which believers are to build “ all
their hopes of present and eternal salvation.55
Wo unto the builders that reject this spiritual corner
stone ! Wo unto all to whom it is a stone of stumbling and
for a rock of offence l—Whosoever shall fall on this stone9
shall he broken: hut on whomsoever it shall fall9 it will grind
him to powder. O beloved brethren, it is truly a tried stone9
a precious corner stone9 and a sure foundation in Zion; he
that helieveth shall not make haste—shall not be disappoint-
ed, perplexed nor confounded, nor make haste in the appre-
hension of danger—he shall not fear nor flee. The Apostle
therefore declares: other foundation can no man lay than
that which is laid9 which is Jesus Christ. The safety of
every part of the edifice must depend on that foundation.
And, brethren, by our solemn act on this day, we also show
the symbol of the spiritual union of all who love the Lord
Jesus Christ, whatever be their name or condition. It is
emblematical of
“ The tie that binds
“ Our hearts in Christian love.”
How important, how comprehensive and encouraging are
the words of Saint Paul: For through him9 namely Jesus
Christ, we both have an access by one Spirit unto the Fa-
ther. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreign-
ers9 but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household
of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles
and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief comer
stone; in whom all the building 9 ft ly framed together9 grow*
eth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are
builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Such are the benevolent purposes of God—such the glo-
rious privileges of believers, and such the obligations of
Christians. No pious man will consider his task performed,
and his work completed, if he has set apart a portion of
his earthly goods for the erection of a cbureh, and the sup-(	19	)
port of an evangelical ministry. But while he is conscien-
tiously engaged irt promoting the prosperity of the outward
means of Christianity, he endeavors to grow in grace and in
the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Brethren, you all are required to bring an offering unto
the Most Holy God. Your hearts, your souls, your minds,
yourselves, y our bodies and spirits must be dedieated unto
the Lord, that he may be thereby glorified.
And while you behold this corner stone on which an out-
ward temple is to be erected, let the sincere, on this solemn
occasion, confirm the pious resolution ; yea, let all resolve
to be built* not on the wisdom and strength of mortals, nor
on the systems of fallible men, but upon the foundation of
the apostles and prophets* Jesus Christ himself being the chief
corner stone, that in him all the building fitly framed toge-
ther* may grow unto an holy temple in the Lord. Thus shall
you individually, thus shall this eongregation be buildedfor
an habitation of God through the Spirit. In days of pros-
perity you shall be fortified in the living stone—in adversity
you shall find that he is a tried and a precious stone—in the
hour of death, in the day of judgment, and in a blessed eter-
nity, you shall experience that he is the sure foundation in
Zion*
Conscious of our subjection to Divine scrutiny, impressed
with the solemn truth, that we are in the presence of the
Adorable God, who commands u& to do all things to his
glory; and, sensible of our dependance on the grace and pro-
tection of Him to whom we are amenable, we will proceed
to lay the first stone of SAINT MATTHEW’S CHURCH,
and consecrate the beginning of the work unto the Lord of
Heaven and the Earth*
LAYING OF THE STONE*
[The Architects and their Helpers are required to attend.]
The Stone, duly prepared, was immediately laid, and an opes leaden
box placed in the cavity. The Bible, Hymn Book and Liturgy, &c.
were then successively held up to the view of all, and deposited, accord-
ing to the printed “ Order of Solemnities,*’ accompanied by the follow-
ing remarks:( so )
In this corner stone we lay this BIBLE. This volume
is sacred. This word directs us unto the spiritual corner
stone. It is the source of all true religious knowledge,
whence we derive all our doctrines and precepts.
“ Here mines of knowledge, love, and joy,
Are open’d to our sight;
The purest gold without alloy,
And gems divinely bright.
“ The counsels of redeeming grace
These sacred leaves unfold ;
And here the Saviour’s lovely face
Our raptur’d eyes behold.
“ Here light, descending frota above,
Directs our doubtful feet;
Here promises of heav’nly love
Our ardent wishes meet.
“ Our num’rous griefs are here redrest,
And all our wants supplied :
Nought we can ask to make us blest
Is in this book denied.”*
In the edifice which, by Divine help, is to be erected on
this corner stone, the word of God, the gospel of Jesus,
shall be preached pure and perfect—and all those who are
members, and all those who will become members of this
congregation, all who are to be edified in this place, shall
search the scriptures, and lay hold on eternal life.
To this you give your assent, my brethren $ and we thus
deposit ah exemplarf of the best book, in this foundation
stone.
In this corner-stone we place this Hymn Book and Li-
turgy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the State of
New-York, and adjacent States. According to this book
are our public religious exercises conducted $ the hymns,
the prayers, the forms, are calculated to promote faith,
hope and charity.
* See Hymn 203, Ev. Luth. Collection.
f E. Bliss and E. White’s stereotype diamond edition, elegantly
hound, and presented by the publishers.( )
Here I have a Lutheran Catechism, which shows accord-
ing to what manner we explain the word of God, and set
forth the fundamentals of religion* It is an evidence of the
great attention which is paid in our church, to the instruc-
tion and edification of youth. With this all true members
of our church must be acquainted, and bear testimony to
their salutary knowledge, when they solemnly ratify their
baptismal covenant, receive the rite of confirmation, and the
sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. This copy of the Cate-
chism is laid in the corner stone.
Here I have an Engraving, faithfully representing the
great Luther, of blessed memory, before the Diet of Worms,
at which the Emperor Charles V. presided. The bold de-
fender of the Christian faith was commanded to retract his
protestations and professions against the errors of the
Romish Church. He replied to the members of the Diet,
that if they could prove from the Bible that he had uttered
any thing that was wrong, he would submit. This, how-
ever, could not be done ; and notwithstanding all threats
and obstacles, he remained firm in the cause of truth and
sound religion. And while we, by depositing this engraving
in the first stone of our church,,manifest our respect and
gratitude to Luther, we are remined of our obligation to
imitate his laudable example, and in defence of truth and
liberty with him declare, on all occasions: Here 1 stand, I
cannot otherwise, God help me. Jlmen J*
These American Coins,f are put in this stone. Some of
them bear the date of the current year, and all have the
ensigns of the Government of the United States. Happy in
thus acknowledging our high prerogatives as Americans—
proud in treasuring up these mementos of the civil and re-
ligious liberty we enjoy as citizens of our Great Republic,
we deem the time and place as most appropriate for the
♦'“■Hie steh* ich, ich kann nioht anders, Gott helfe mir* Amen.”
f A dollar, half a dollar, a quarter of a dollar, and a dime Other
coins were also deposited, in compliance with the request of the donors.( 22 )
acknowledgment, that the remote cause of our Freedom
and Independence is found in the merit of Luther’s deeds.
This document or record* is also to be placed in this
comer stone.
ISAIAH XXVIII. 16.
Cf>u£ tfaitfj the Horfc
Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation, a stone, a tried
stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that
believeth shall not make haste*
THE CORNER STONE
Of the English Evangelical Lutheran Church, to be here-
after known by the name of Saint Matthew's Church, in
the city of New-York, was laid with due solemnities, and in
proper place, on Monday, the twenty-second day of October,
in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and
twenty-one; and in the forty-sixth year of the Independ-
ence of the United States of North America,
UNDER THE DIRECTION OP, &C.
Then follow the names of the Architect, the Master Mason, the Pas-
tor, Church Council, Building Committee, Vestry of Christ Church,
&c. The record concludes thus:
Fellow citizen James Monroe is President of the United
States. x
Fellow citizen De Witt Clinton is Governor of the State
of New-York.
Fellow citizen Stephen Allen is Mayor of the City of
New-York.
* This was an elegant specimen of Calligraphy, on a large sheet, by
Mr. J. Morris, of PhUom Academy, William-street.( 2* )
Just before tbe commencement of the ceremony, Mr. A. T. Good-
rich sent an Account of the City of New- York, with new engravings
representing the public edifices, &c. requesting that it might be depo-
sited and preserved with the other articles. The request was com-
plied with, and the package deposited in due form. After which the
printed Order of Solemnities was placed in the box; and the
COLLECTION
to aid in defraying the expenses of the building, commenced; during
which a
SOLICITATION
Was pronounced, in substance as follows:
My Friends and Fellow Christians:
In a few moments the attendance of the Master Build-
ers and their Assistants will be required, to aid in advancing
the important work of this day. Before we proceed to the
solemn ceremony of closing and adjusting tbe Stone, and
committing the commenced work unto the Superintendence
of the All-glorious Architect and Governor of the Universe,
we shall afford one and all an opportunity “ to do good, and
to communicate.” I have said to those who are now en-
gaged in collecting your donations: “ brethren, go, receive
the kind offerings of our friends and visiters. Sure I am,
that every one who may think it an object worthy of atten-
tion, to witness and unite in our exercises on this interest-
ing occasion—every one who knows that < God loveth a
cheerful giver*—every one whom the Lord has blessed with
the means to encourage a good undertaking, and promote
the kingdom of our crucified and exalted Jesus—every one
who is our friend and well-wisher, will leave his mite, and
contribute something.” Beloved friends, let me not have
said this in vain. Be pleased to make true my prediction,
and confirm our opinion of your generosity, “ Every man
according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give/9
Many of you must be aware of the fact, that your Lutheran
fellow-christians have never refused to aid the pious under-
takings of other religious denominations. And why should
we not look for Christian reciprocity ?( 2* )
We have explained our views and intentions. We hope
that all will be satisfied with our statement, and second our
efforts, considering, as they deposit a donation on the passing
plate, that they are aiding in the erection of an edifice
which will be an ornament to New-York, and more especi-
ally an embellishment to this section of our thriving city—
you are assisting in rearing an imperishable monument in
the hearts of many fellow-christians—you are promoting a
benignant measure, the strength and beauty of society, the
support of good government, the best interests of mankind,
the salvation of sinners, and the glory of the Great God in
whom we all “ live, and move, and have our being.” And
we pray that « God” who “ is able,” may make all grace
abound toward you ; « that ye, always having all sufficiency
in all things, may abound to every good work.”
An interesting part of our task is yet to be performed*
Previously, however, all the brethren who have assembled
with us, are most respectfully solicited to contribute toward
this pious work.
CLOSING AND ADJUSTING OF THE CORNER STONE.
The box was hermetically closed, and secured in the cavity. The offi-
ciating Pastor then took the Lid of the Stone, exhibited the Inscrip-
tion, •* October 22d, 1821,” and laid it in its place. With a hammer
he struck the Stone three times, saying:
In the Name of God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Amen.
Addressing the Builders:
Essay, whether the Corner Stone of St. Matthew’s Church
is laid aright, and declare your mind.
The Master Mason took the plumb and square, examined, and answered:
It is aright.
The Chief Architect took the rale, square and plumb, examined, and
answered: The dimensions are proper, the position is correct, and all
Is aright.
Standing on the Stone, the Pastor made the following( * )
DECLARATION.
la the Name of God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost,
I, a railed and regular servant of the Holy Gospel of Jesus
Christ, and an ordained Pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran
Church, do declare that this Corner Stone of an intended
Evangelical Lutheran Church, to be called St. MAT-
THEW’S CHURCH, is now laid in due form, and in pro-
per place • and the work is dedicated and consecrated unto
the Great God our Father, our Saviour, and our Comforter.
Be it known and remembered, that this Stone was thus
laid and consecrated, on the twenty-second day of October,
in the year of our Lord, 1&21, and in the 46th year of
American Independence.
And unto Thee, the Most Glorious Being, the Almighty,
All-wise and All-gracious Architect of the Universe, unto
Thee, the Father from everlasting to everlasting, we com-
mit the guidance and furtherance of the whole work. Bless
us, O Lord, out of Thine abundance, that a house may be
built, in which Thou shalt be worshipped in the beauty of
holiness, in which Thy Name shall be glorified, trad crowds
be bom to righteousness and to glory, through Jesus Christ
Thy Son, our Lord. So may it be!
Now unto Him that is able to keep y ou from'flailing, and
to present you faultless before the presence of his glory
with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, he
glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.
Amen.
The Pastor, leaving the Stone, gave the right hand to the ©uildera,
saying:
My Brethren, the work is commenced—build now on
this Corner Stone according to the rules of Art, and correct
principles of Architecture.
n( 26 )
The Building immediately progressed, and the Choir and Congregation
sang:
HYMN 297*
Lord, dost thou show a corner stone,
For us to build our hopes upon,
That the fair edifice may rise
Sublime in light beyond the skies ?
Thy people long this stone have tiy’d,
And all the pow’rs of hell defy’d.
Floods of temptation beat in vain ;
Well doth this rock the house sustain.
When storms and tempests round prevail,
Whirlwind and thunder, fire and hail;
’Tis here our trembling souls shall hide,
And here securely they abide.
PRAYER.
Unto thee we give thanks, O God, for the goodly sight
which thou hast prepared for us, and for the opportunity
which thou hast afforded on this solemn occasion, to com-
mence a pious work in thy fear. Abide with us evermore.
Enable us to walk worthy of thy Gospel—to serve thee with
uprightness—to discharge our duties with fidelity—to prove
our attachment to thee—our grateful devotion to the God
of our Salvation—and at all times to show forth thy praise.
Whether we live or die, may we be thine. In all our under-
takings for the advancement of our own Christian house-
hold, and for the promotion of thy kingdom, may we be
incited unto pious faith, and zeal, and perseverance, by the
bright example of our ancient forefathers, who gave light
and liberty to an admiring world. May we attend to the
solemn admonition of thy servant, whom in the days of
error and superstition, thou didst awaken to oppose the
powers of darkness—that we should endeavor in our own(	27	)
hearts to build up thy kingdom. Grant that the work we
have commenced, may prosper in our hands, and be fraught
with blessing and felicity, to present and future generations.
May all those who have united with us in the solemnities
of this day, have tasted that thou art gracious. May all
come unto the living stone, that they also as lively stones,
may be built up a spiritual bouse, an holy priesthood, to
offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus
Christ. Extend the knowledge of thy holy word, and make
the nations acquainted with thy benevolent purpose toward
a sinful world, which is now made manifest by the appear*
ing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death,
and hath brought life and immortality to light through the
gospel. Bless our Land, our State, our City, and our Ma-
gistrates. Bless the Ministers of thy Gospel, and every
Christian Congregation. Smile upon all proper means and
institutions for the advancement of the kingdom of truth,
purity and righteousness.
O Lord our God, « have mercy upon every one of us, par-
don and deliver us from all our sins, confirm and strengthen
us in all goodness, and bring us to everlasting life, through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.**
Respectful acknowledgments were tendered to the numerous friends
and fellow-citizens, who, by their presence and kind donations, favored
the congregation, and encouraged a goodly work.
BENEDICTION.
The Lord bless thee and keep thee. The Lord make his
face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee* The
Lord lift up his countenance on thee, and give thee peace.
Amen.