Division BXHSfe^ Section ' ^ ^^ / NINTH ANNUAL SESSIONS. ACTS AND PROCEEDINGS OF THE ^yipd of tl\e rotoii\cic > OF THE REFORMED CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES, *Sy v-vo <:^S . "VcA c - ■ In General Convention, AT WAYNESBORO. PA., OCTOBER, 1881. PHILADELPHIA: REFORMED CHURCH PUBLICATION BOARD, 907 ARCH STREET. 1881. lei:m:]vca.t^. ART. I. Opening of Synod. ART. II. Members Present. ART. III. Election of Officers. ART. IV. Rules of Order. ART. V. Appointment of Standing Committees. 1. On Religious Services. 2. On Minutes of Synod. 3. On Overtures. 4. Oil Minutes of Classes. 5. On Examination, Licensure, and Ordination. 6. On the State of Religion and Statistical Reports. 7. On Education. 8. On Missions. 9. On Publication. 10. On Finance. 11. On Nominations. 12. On Ministerial Necrology. ART. VI. Communications. ART. VII. Religious Services. ART. VIII. MtNUTES of Synod. ART.. IX. Overtures. ART. X. Minutes of Classes. ART. XL Examination, Licensure, and Ordination. ART. XII. State of Religion and Statistical reports. ART. XIII. Education. ART. XIV. Missions. ART. XV. Finance. ART. XVI. Appeals and References. ART. XVII. Complaints. ART. XVIII. Sunday-schools. ART. XIX. Church Government. ART. XX. Publication. ART. XXI. Miscellaneous. ART. XXII. Ministerial Necrology. ART. XXIII. Resumption and Close. ART. XXIV. Adjournment. Ninth Annual Meeting. ACTS AND PROCEEDINGS Of the Synod of the Potomac of the Reformed Church in the United States at its Annual Sessions, convened in General Convention, in Waynesboro, Pa., in the month of October, in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and Eighty-One. The Sessions commenced on the even- ing of the nineteenth and coniinued until the twentyfxfth day of the month} inclusive, at noon. ARTICLE I. OPENING OF SYNOD. The Synod convened in General Convention, on Wednesday eve- ning, October 19th, A. D. 1881, at 7 o'clock, in Trinity Reformed Church of Waynesboro, Franklin county, Pa , pursuant to ap- pointment of last annual meeting, and was opened with appropriate religious services. The President of the pi-evious year, G. W. Martin, D, D., preached the opening sermon from Matt. 16 : 18 — - •'And I say also unto thee. That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church : and the gates of hell shall not pre- vail against it." ARTICLE II. MEMBERS PRESENT.* I. FROM THE CLASSIS OF ZION. Ministers: — Jacob O. Miller, D. D., Reinhart R. Smith, Aaron Spangler, Francis S. Lindaman, Israel S. Weisz, D. D., ^Nloses Kieffer, D. D., Andrew J. Heller, George W. Glessner, D. D., John Kretzing, J. Marion Mickley, Amos H. Kremer, D. D., Frederick J. Sauerber, Silas F. Laury, Henry T. Spangler, David N. Ditt- niar, George E. Addams, Henry Ililbish, David U. Wolff, Aaron Wanner, D. D., and Walter E. Krebs Elders : — Samuel Crist, Henry Winebrenner, Aaron Raab, C, Augustus Woltman, John Bixler, George Hollinger, Samuel Wolf, Samuel R. Weaver, George S. Brodbeck, John Hager, Peter Hoover, David Kump, Charles A. Shultz, Martin Thomas, Solomon Snyder, William Wagner, Daniel Stambaugh, and Louis H. Koch. * A considerable number of the members appeared upon the floor of Synod after the first session. Hence tlieir names do not occur in tlie order in wliicli they would appear, had they been present at the first roll-call. 3 II. FROM THE CLASSIS OF MARYLAND, Ministers : — George L. Staley, D. D., Edmund R. Eschbach, D. D.. William Goodrich, Simon S. Miller, Nehemiah H. Skyles, Henry Wissler, T. Franklin Hoffmeier, Ambrose C. Geary, John G. Noss, William Rupp, Leighton G. Kremer, Marion L. Firor, Conrad Clever, Charles F. Sontag, William A. Gring, the licentiate George M. Zacharias, Joel T. Rossiter, J. Spaugler Kieffer, Joseph W. Santee, D. D., Silas M. Hench, and P. Allison Long. Elders: — Joseph Seibert, Ezra Williard, Edward D Zimmer- man, George M. Harbaugh, Alexander Weaver, William A. Ha- gerraan, Frederick Yost, John M. Hoffman, Jacob H. Hinea, William W. Lesh, J. Taylor Motter, Goldsboro S. Griffith, Peter Middlekauff, Jacob Sellers, Henry S. Zeller, Mellville E. Doll, and George Harbaugh. Ill, FROM THE CLASSIS OF MERCERSBURG. Ministers: — William M. Deatrick, Isaac G. Brown, Henry Mil- ler, Jacob Hassler, David M Whitmore, William I. Stewart, Isaac M. Motter, William C. Cremer, Franklin F. Bahner, Henry F. Long, Henry S, Garner, J. Alvin Reber, John M. Titzel, William H. Herbert, Cyrus J. Musser, Cyrus Cort, Calvin S. Slagle, George B. Russell, D.'D., Albert G. Dole, Milton IL Sangree, Daniel H. Leader, the licentiate Albert A. Black, and J. David Miller. Elders: — John P. Reed, E-q, James Rawlings, Abraham Kieffer, David B. Russell, Conrad Glazer, George L. Freet, Henry Stiue, Daniel S. Barnhart, Adam Shellhase, Isaac H. Keefer, Benjamin Neff, Henry O. Neal, J. Raum Pague, Samuel Omwake, Henry Mickly, Henry Omwake, and William Dice. IV. FROM THE CLASSIS OF VIRGINIA. Ministers : — George H. Martin, D. D. , Henry St. J. Rinker, John A. Hoffheins, vVnderson J. Whitmore, Samuel L. Whitmore, Abner R. Kremer, Barton R. Carnahan, and John C. Bowman. Elders: — George P. Souder, John R. Lautz, John Fitz, George Rosen, Richard W. Kearns, Levi Rinker, Emanuel Staley, Philip P. Hamman, and Henry J. Seibert. V. FROM THE CLASSIS OF NORTH CAROLINA, None present. VI. FROM THE CLASSIS OF SAN FRANCISCO. None present. VII. FROM THE CLASSIS OF PORTLAND-OREGON. None present. ADVISORY MEMBERS. Theodore Appel, D. D,, George W. Aughinbaugh, D. D., and Rev. Charles G. Fisher of the Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States, Rev. John W. Rauch of the Ohio Synod, Elder David Schriver of Zion's Classis, and Elders Andrew R. Sehnebly, Jacob Heyser, John Bowman, and Samuel B. Snively of Mercers- burg Classis. MINISTERS OF OTHER CHURCHES. The presence of Rev. Dr. Bergstresser, of the Lutheran Church, and Revs. Messrs. Dunkerle and Wilcux, of the Methodist Church, was announced. ARTICLE III. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. Rev. I. G. Brown, President, Mercersburg, Pa. Rev. A. H. Kremer, Vice-President, Carlisle, Pa. Rev. W. M. Deatrick is Stated Clerk, Mercersbftrg, Pa. Rev. T. F. HofFmeier, Corresponding Secretary, Middletown, Md. Elder Louis Markell, Treasurer, Frederick, Md. ARTICLE IV. RULES OF ORDER. In view of the appointment by the late General Synod of a com- mittee to prepare Rules of Order for the government of the several judicatories of the Reformed Church, in their meetings, it was deemed unnecessary to take action on the Report of the Committee on Rules of Order, which was received at the last meeting of Synod, except in so far as to refer said report to the General Synod's Com- mittee on Rules of Order. The reading of the Rules of Order was dispensed with, and the limits constituting the Bar of the House were defined to consist of the first six pews from the chancel railing. The following hours were fixed for the opening and closing of the current sessions of the Synod, to wit : The forenoon session to open at 9 and close at HI o'clock; the afternoon session to begin at 2 and end at 42 o'clock. An evening session was held on Monday evening, beginning at 7 o'clock. ARTICLE V. STANDING COMMITTEES. The President appointed the following Standing Committees, to wit : Religious Services: Revs. F. F. Bahner, I. M- Hotter, PI. Miller, N. H. Skyles, and Elders D. B. Russell, H- Sliue, and E. D. Zimmerman. Minuten of Synod: Revs. \V. M. l)eatrick, A. Spangler, A. C. Geary, M. L. Firor, and Elders C. A. WoUman, J. Rawlinga, and G. M. Ilarbaugh. Minutes of Oeneral Synod : Eevs- S. S. Miller, F. S. Lindaman, C. Cort, H, T. Spangler, and Elders S. R. Weaver, W. A. Hagerman, and J. Bixler. Overtures: Revs. J. Hassler, R. R. Smith, F. J Sauerber, L. G. Kremer, and Elders G. L. Freet, A. Weaver, and A. Raab. Minutes of dairies : Revs. H. St. J. Rinker, J. Kretzing, J. G. Noss, J. A. Reber, and Elders S. Wolf, W. W. J.esh, and C. Glazer. Examination, Licensure and Ordination : Revs. Drs. Gles.sner, Kiefrer, Kre- mer, Staley, and Elders A. KiefFer, G. P. Soiider, and E. Williard. State of Religion and Statistical Reports : Revs. Dr. Martin, Dr. Weisz, J. M. Mickley, D. M. Whitmore, and Elders S. Crist, J. Seibert, and P. Hoover. Education: Revs. W. A. Gring, Dr. Miller, W. C. Cremer, C. F. Sontag, and Elders J. Hager, J. R. Lantz, and F. Yost. Missions: Revs. J. M. Titzel, Dr. Eschbacli, C. Cort, H. S. Garner, and Elders J. P. Reed, J. H. Hinea, and D. S. Barnhart. Publication : Revs. W. Rupp, W. Goodrich, Dr. Eschbach, S. F. Laury, and Elders J. M. Hoffman, G. HoUinger, and G. Rosen. Finance: Revs. A. J. Heller, J. A. HofFheins, S. L. Whitmore, W. H. Herbert, and Elder*-C. A. Shiiltz, J. T. Motter, and A. Shellhase. Nominations : Revs. T. F. Hoffmeier, D. N. Dittmar, C. Clever, A. J. Whit- more, and Elders J. Fritz, G. S. Brodbeck, and H. Winebrenner. Ministerial Necrology : Revs. H. Wissler, A. R. Ki-emer, W. I. Stewart, H. F. Long, and Elders I. H. Keefer, D. B. Russell, and S. Crist. ARTICLE VI. COMMUNICATIONS. 1. The Minutes of the Classes of Zion, Maryland, Mercersburg, Virginia, North Carolina, San Francisco, and Portland-Oregon, were received, and referred to the Standing Committee on Minutes of Classes, except the Reports on the State of Religion and the Sta- tistical Tables, which were referred to the Standing Committee on those subjects 2. The Annual Report of the Treasurer of Synod was presented and read, and then referred to the Standing Committee on Finance, for the purpose of being audited. 3. The Annual Report of the Board of Education was laid be- fore the Synod and read, and was then referred to the Standing Committee on Education for consideration. 4. The Annual Reports of the Board of Visitors and Board of Trustees of the Theological Seminary were received and read, and then referred to the same committee, for the same purpose. 5. The Annual Reports of the Board of Missions, of the Super- intendent of Missions, and of the Treasurer of the Tri-Synodic Board of Missions, were received and severally read, and then referred to the Standing Committee on Missions for consideration. 6. The Annual Report of the Board of Regents of Mercersburg College was received, read and acted on by the Synod without reference. 7. The Annual Report of the Reformed Church Publication Board was laid before the Synod and read, and then referred to the Standing Committee on Publication for consideration. 8. The Annual Report of the Sunday-school Board was pre- sented to Synod, read and disposed of without reference. 9. Ten other communications were received and referred to the Standing Committee on Overtures. ARTICLE VII. RELIGIOUS SERVICES. The Synod, during its present sessions, observed the following religious services, to wit : 1. The sessions of each day were opened and closed with appro- priate religious services. 2. The Standing Committee on Religious Services reported, which was received and adopted, as follows : Your Committee on Religious Services Avould respectfully report as follows : TRINITY REFORMED CHURCH. Saturday Afternoon- — Preparatory Services : Sermon by Eev. T. F. Hoff- meier, assisted by Eevs. W. C. Cremer and S. S. Miller. Liturgical service by Kev. L. G. Kremer. Saticrday Evening. — Sermon by Rev. H. Hilbish, assisted by Eevs. J. M. Mickly and N. H. Skyles. Sunday Moi^ning. — Synodical Communion : Sermon by Eev. Dr. Weisz, assisted by Revs. A. G. Dole and A. Spangler. Liturgical services by the President and Stated Clerk of Synod. Sunday Afternoon. — Sunday-School Services ; addresses by Eevs- Dr. Kre- mer, G. E. Add am s and F. J. Sauerber. Sunday Evening. — Sermon by Rev. C Clever, assisted by Revs. S. M. Hench and D. U. Wolff! ST. pal'l's reformed church. Saturday Afternoon. — Preparatory Services : Sermon by Rev. J. M. Titzel. Liturgical services by Revs. D. N. Dittmar and J. C. Bowman. Saturday Evening. — Sermon by Rev. J. A. Hoffheins. Liturgical services by Revs. C. F. Sontag and B. R. Carnahan. Sunday Morning. — Communion services: Sermon by Rev. Dr. Eschbach. Liturgical services by Revs. J. T. Eossiter and A. J. Pleller. Smiday Afternoon. — Simday-school services; addresses by Eevs. J. Hassler, N. H. Skyles and W. Goodrich. Sunday Evening. — Sermon by Eev. F. J. Sauerber. Liturgical services by Eevs. M. L. Firor and W. A. Gring. OTHER churches. Lutheran Church. — Sunday Morning, Eev. J. M. Titzel ; Sunday Evening, Eev. W. Goodrich. Presbyterian Church. — Sunday Morning, Eev. H. T. Spangler ; Sunday Eve- ning, Eev. Dr. Kiefier. Methodist Church. — Sunday Morning, Eev. Dr. Staley ; Sunday Evening, Eev. J. D. Miller. Respectfully submitted. F. F. Bahner, Chairman. ARTICLE VIII. MINUTES OF SYNOD. The reading of the Minutes of the last Annual Meeting publicly before the Synod was dispensed with, and the printed "Acts and Proceedings" of the last Annual Sessions of the Synod were referred to the Standing Committee on Minutes of Synod, to report the items of unfinished business that properly claimed the atten- tion of this meeting of the Synod. During the session of Friday morning, this Committee submitted the following report, which was received, considered item by item, adopted as a whole, and is as follows, to wit : I. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON MINUTES OF SYNOD. To the Revertnd Synod of the Potomac : Your Comraittee, to whom were referred the Printed Minutes of tlie Synod of last year, after a careful perusal of them, beg leave to report the following items of unfinishtd business, as, in their judgment, requiring the considera- tion of the present sessions of the Synod, namely: Item 1, page 6. After receiving the Report of the Special Comraittee on the Revision of our Rules of Order, and ordering the Report to be incorpo- rated in the Minutes, further action thereon was postponed until the present annual meeting of the Synod. Item 2, page 12. A Standing Committee on Ministerial Necrology was appointed, whose duty it will be to report at this meeting of the Synod; of which Committee Rev. I. S. VVeisz is Chairman. Item 3, page 31. The Stated Clerk was instructed to communicate to Zion's Classis certain action, having reference to Beneficiary Education, and request- ing earnestly said Classis to co-operate with the Board of Education, and to carry on its beneficiary operations, through said Board, in compliance with the Constitution of our Church. Item 4, pagre 36. Certain action of the last Synod, in reference to Mercers- burg College, in the form of a preamble and resolutions. Item 5, page 36. It will be necessary for the Synod to fill by election the vacancies that will take place, at the close of the present sessions of the Synod, in the Board of Education, by the expiration of the term of service of Revs. 1. G. Brown, W. C. Cremer, and S. N. Callender. Item 6, page 37. It will be the duty of the Synod to fill by election the vacancies about to occur in the Board of Regents of Mercersburg College, of the following members, whose term of oflBce expires during the present month, viz. : Revs. J. S. Kiefi'er, D. M. Whitmore, and William M. Deatrick ; and also of Dr. M. A. Berry, who resigned during the year. Item 7, page 52. The Synod apportioned $3875 among the several Classes constituting the Synod for Home Missions. Item 8, page 52. The several Classes and pastoral charges were urged to take immediate steps to raise and pay the several amounts apportioned to them for the Washington Mission Chapel by the Synod of Hagerstown, in 1878. Item 9, page 53. The Classes were reijuested to give special attention to the claims of Missions; to urge the importance of Systematic Benevolence, the further introduction of Missionary Societies in Congregations and Sunday- schools, etc. Item 10, page 54. It becomes necessary to elect two members of the Synodic Board of Missions, in order to fill the vacancies in said Board, already exist- ing, caused by the expiration of tlie term of service of Elder G. S. Griffith and Rev. A. H. Kremer, which occurred on the 1st instant. Item 11, page 56. The Synod made certain specific assessments upon the several Classes for Contingent Purposes. Item 12, pcKje hi. It will be necessary to elect a member of Synod's Board of Trustees, to fill the place of Dr. L. H. Steiner, wiiose term of service will expire January 1st, A. i). 1882, according to the Charter. Jlevi 13, page 58. It becomes necessary to elect a member of the Sunday- school Board, to fill the place of Rev. A. R. Kremer, whose term of office ends at this meeting of the Synod ; and also one to fill the vacancy caused by the removal of Rev. I). W. Ebbert within the bounds of another Synod. Item 14, parjp 59. The Slated Clerk was instructed to have two thousand copies of the Acls and Proceedings of the last annual sessions of the Synod published in pamphlet form, and to distribute them among those entitled to receive Minutes of our Synod. Item. 15, page 63. The Committee appointed by the Synod of Hanover, in 1874, to prepare and publish, jointly with a similar Committee from the Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States, an edition of" Hymns for the Reformed Church," irilh mime, was continued, with special instructions to have the same published at the earliest practicable time ; of which Committee Rev. Dr. Higbee is Chairman. Item IQ, page Qo. Tlie Synod requested the Classes within its bounds to order a collection for the benefit of tiie Society for the Relief of Ministers and Widows of Ministers of tlie Reformed Church, to be taken up in our churches on or about the third Sunday in June last. Item. 17, page G7. Zion's Classis is earnestly requested to take upon them- selves their proper apportionment for the Washington Mission Chapel, as allotted at the Synod of Hagerstown in 1878. Item 18, page 67. The Synod requested those who should be delegated from the several Classes of this Synod to the General Synod in Tiffin, to urge a return to the ba^is or ratio of ministers in making the necessary assessments for Contingent Purposes, as the only proper and equitable one. Respectfully submitted, Wm. M. Deatrick, Chairman. For the action of Synod on item 1, see Article IV., Rules of Or- der ; on item 2, see Article XXIL, Ministerial Necrology; items 3, 7, 8, 9, 16 and 17 were referred to the Standing Committee on Minutes of Classes ; on item 4, see Article XIII., Education ; items 5, 6, 10, 12 and 13 were referred to the Standing Committee on Nom- inations, to make the required nominations ; on item 11, see Article XV., Finance ; on items 14 and 15, see Article XX., Publication ; and item 18 was adopted with the statement, that the request had not been complied with. IL REPORT Ol^ COMMITTEE ON MINUTES OF GENERAL SYNOD. The Standing Committee on Minutes of the General Synod reported during the session of Monday afternoon. The report of the Committee was received, disposed of item by item, adopted as a whole, and is as follows : The Committee on Minutes of General Synod begs leave to report the following items : Itetn 1, page 21. The Overture of this Synod to the General Synod, request- ing said Synod to return to the basis or ratio of ministers, in making assess- ments for contingent expenses, was not granted. Item 2, page 50. The cause of Home Missions is commended to the District 10 Synods and their Boards, requesting them to take such action as shall increase the activity and efficiency of the Churcli in this important work. Item 3, page 50 The General Synod repeats its request, that the Boards of the District Synods report to the Board of the General Synod, at least one month before its triennial meeting, a statement of their labors and their finan- cial condition ; and each Synod is also requested to send a copy of its Minutes annually to the General Synod's Board. Item 4, page 101. Tlie General Synod earnestly requests the District Synods to take such action as may be deemed best to establish Orphan Homes, where necessary, etc Item 5, page 111. The General Synod declared the proposed amendments to the Constitution, as sent down to the Classes for approval or rejection, as hav- ing been all adopted. Item 6, page 112. The General Synod requests the District Synods to examine and give an expression of their opinion on the following points of the proposed revision of the Constitution, namely: a) Annual Sessions of the General Synod, b) Election of delegates by the Synods instead of the Classes, c) Concentration of Church-work on Boards appointed by the General Synod. Item 7, jMge 159. The General Synod recommends an additional column to the present statistical table, in which the estimated value of Church property shall be given. Item 8, paffe 167. The General Synod assessed this Synod in the sum of .00 for contingent purposes. Item 9, page 168. The attention of the District Synods, delinquent to George Gelbach, former Treasurer of the Church Extension Board, is called to said delinquency. Item 10, page 170. The General Synod will meet in the Third Eeformed Church of Baltimore, Md., on Wednesday Evening, May 7th, A. D. 1884, at 8 o'clock. Respectfully submitted, S. S. Miller, Chairman. Items 1,2, 4, 5 and 10 were severally adopted ; item 3 was adopted, and the attention of the Board of Missions was directed to the matter ; item 6 was referred to a Special Committee, consist- ing of Revs. W. M. Deatrick, Dr. Santee, A. J. Heller, H. St. J. Rinker, Dr. Welker, and Elders G. S. Griffith, C. A. Shultz, and J. R. Pague ; item 7 was adopted, and the attention of the Classes called to the matter ; item 8 was adopted, and the Committee on Finance was ordered to make the necessary assessment to meet the same ; and item 9 was adopted, with the statement that the Synod of the Potomac is not delinquent in the matter, having paid its full apportionment, $232.00, November 5th, 1874, as per voucher. ARTICLE IX. OVERTURES. The Standing Committee on Overtures presented their report, which was received, acted on item by item, adopted as a whole, and is as follows : The Committee on Overtures beg leave to offer the following report, from letters and papers placed in its hands : No. 1. An overture from the Iowa Classis, earnestly petitioning this Synod to aid them in their work of missions. The amount asked for is $500.00. 11 No. 2. A complaint from the pastor of the York Springs Charge against certain action of Zion's Chissis, at its meeting in Bloomfietd, Perry county, Pa. No. 3. A letter from the Corresponding Secretary of the Pittsburgh Synod, stating that said Synod had selected the Rev. Dr. Theo. Appel as its choice for Superintendent of Missions for the ensuing term. No. 4. A letter from the Secretary of tiie Tri-Synodic Board of Missions, giving the request of said Board, that all collections taken up for Home Mis- sions, during our present sessions, be sent to the Treasurer of that Board. No. 5. A statement of the Bethany Orphans' Home, from the President of the Board of Managers and the Superintendent of the Home, presenting the condition and wants of said institution. No. 6. A request froai the Northern Illinois Classis, asking permission to send a financial agent into the bounds of this Synod, with the view of collect- ing funds for the founding of a College by said Classis. No. 7. Three petitions from congregations of the York Springs Charge, joining their pastor in iiis complaint against the action of Zion's Classis, already referred to in this report, under item 2. No. 8. A commimication from Kev. Dr. Wanner, asking the Synod to give a deliverance on tlie nature of a complaint, whether or not it stays the action of the Clas.sis. No. 9. A letter from Rev. J. Gantenbein, of Portland, Oregon, asking the Synod to excuse his absence, and requesting that the licentiates Albert Kreu- ter and P'rederick Ewald, sent out as missionaries from Basel, Switzerland, to be enrolled as members of the Portland-Oregon Classis. No. 10. A request from Rev. Henry Miller, asking the Synod to give a deliverance on the propriety of raising funds for missionary and church pur- poses by means of festivals, excursions, picnics, etc. Respectfully submitted, J. Hassler, Chairman. Item 1 was referred to the Standing Commiltee on Missions, after the letter had been read. For the action of Synod on items 2 and 7, see Article XVII., Complaints; items 3, 4 and 9 were adopted, the requests being granted ; on items 5 and 10, see Article XXI., Miscellaneous ; item 6 was referred to the Standing Committee on Education for consideration; and the request of Rev. Dr. Wanner, contained in item 8, was answered in the negative, i. e., that a com- plaint does not stay the action of the Classi. ARTICLE X. MINUTES OF CLASSES. The Standing Committee on Minutes of Classes presented their report during the session of Monday afternoon, which was received, disposed of item by item, amended, then adopted as a whole, and is as follows : To the Reverend Synod of the Potomac : Dear Brktiiren: Your Committee on Minutes of Classes, after a careful examination of the same, find the following items claiming the attention of the Synod : I. IRREGULARITIES 1. The Clas.ses of Zion, North Carolina, San Francisco, and Porfland-Ore- gon, failed to incorporate the reports of their respective treasurers in their Minutes, as furnished to the Synod. 12 2. The Classis of North Carolina fails to give the hour at which it con- venes next year. 3. The same Classis failed to elect a delegate secundus to the late General Synod. II. REQUESTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS. 4. Zion's Classis requests the formation of three Classes out of their present t rritory. 5. Virginia Classis requests that the Synod allow her to use the balance of a missionary apportionment of '?150 00 within her own bounds. 6. San Francisco Classis requests the Synod to give its attention to the large cities along the Pacific coast, as affording an inviting field for Mission- ary effort. 7. Portland-Oregon Classis requests the Synod to establish a German Pro- fessorship in the Theological Seminary at Lancaster, Pa. 8. Tlie same Classis requests the Synod to exonerate her from the appor- tionment of $25.00 for Home Missions. III. APPEALS AND COMPLAINTS. 9. The Rev. A. Wanner complains to the Synod of the action of Zion's Classis in the division of his pastoral charge. IV. SUBJECTS REFERRED TO THE CLASSES. 10. All the Classes took favorable action upon the subjects referred to them. 11. The Virginia Classis returns a vote of thanks to the Synod for its favorable action in reference to the missionary work within the bounds of the Classis. 12. Portland-Oregon Classis expresses, in tender terms, its sincere gratitude to the Synod for its very warm expression of sympathy in its behalf. V. LICENSED, ORDAINED, RECEIVED AND DISMISSED, 13. Zion's Classis licensed Calvin S. Slagle and dismissed him to the Mer- cersburg Classis ; received the licentiate Alfred F. Dreisbach from the Fas* Pennsylvania Classis, and ordained him to the Holy Ministry ; received the Rev. Henry T. Spangler from the Eastern Ohio Classis, the Rev. Walter E. Krebs from the Fast Susquehanna Classis, and the Rev. David N. Dittmar from the Mercersburg Classis ; and dismissed the Rev. William F. Colli- tlower to the Maryland Classis. 14. Maryland Classis received the Revs. William A. Gring and Jacob B. Kerschner from the Mercersburg Classis, the Rev. William F. Colliflower from the Zion's Cla.ssis of this Synod, and the Rev. Henry W. Hoffmeier from the Clarion Clas-is ; and dismissed the Rev. Abner R. Kremer to the Virginia Classis. 15. Mercersburg Classis licensed Edgar S. Hassler, George B. Resser, and Albert A. Black ; received the licentiates Cyrus J. Musser from the Somerset Classis, and Calvin S. Slagle from Zion's Classis of this Synod, and ordained them to the work of the Holy Ministry; received George B. Russell, D. D.. from the Maryland Classis, and the Rev. Cyrus Cort from the Iowa Classis ; and dismissed the licentiate Samuel H. Eisenberg to the Westmoreland Classis, the Rev. David N. Dittmar to Zion's Classis of this Synod, the Rev. Henry I. Comfort to the Miami Classis, the Rev. David W. Ebbert to the Philadelphia Classis, EInathan E. Higbee, D. D., and the licentiate George F. Mull to the Lebanon Classis, the Revs. Wm. A. Gring and Jacob B. Kerschner to the Maryland Classis, and the licentiate George B. Resser to the Lancaster Classis of the Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States. 16. Virginia Classis received the Rev. Abner R. Kremer from the Mary- land Classis. 13 17. North Carolina Classis licensed Paul Barringer, and ordained liira to tlie Holy Ministry; received tiie Rev. G. Dickey Gurley from tlie VVestmore- land Classis ; and dismissed the liev. Julius II. Shuford to tiie Shelby Classis. 18. San Francisco Classis received the Rev. Charles Ilartman from the Indiana ClaWi.'*. 19. Portland-Oregon Classis received the licentiates Albert Kreuter and Frederick Ewald from the Reformed Church of Switzerland. VI. PLACE AND TIME OF TIIE NEXT ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE CLASSES. 20. Zion's Classis will meet in Trinity Reformed Church, York, York county, Pa., on Tues(hiy, May 30th, a. d. 1882, at 10 o'clock a. m. Rev. H. Hilbish. Fresulcnt; Rev. W."R. II. Deatrich, Stated Clerk; and Elder C A. Shultz, IVeasnrer. 21. Maryland Chissis will meet in Middletown, Frederick connty, Md., on Wednesday", May 31st, a. d. 1882, at 7:30 o'clock p. m. Rev. T. F. Iloff- nieier, President; and Rev. S. S. Miller, Slated Clerk and Treasurer. 22. ^Mercersburg Classis will meet in Mercersburg, Franklin count v, Pa., on Wednesday, May 10th, A D. 1882, at 7:30 o'clock p.m. Rev. "W. C. Cremer, President ; and Rev. Wm. M. Deatrick, Stated Clerk and Treasurer. 23. Virginia Classis will meet in Middlebrook, Augusta county, Va., on AVednesday, May 17th, A. d. 1882, at 7 : 30 o'clock p. k. Rev. A. J. Bowers, President; Rev. B. R, Carnahan, Stated Clerk; and Rev. J. A. Hoffheins, IVeasurer. 24. North Carolina Classis will meet in Mt. Zion Church, Rowan county, N. C, on Thursday, May 11th, A. D. 1882, at — o'clock. Rev. M. L. Hed- rick, President; Gr. W. AVelker, D. D., Stated Clerk; and Rev. T. Long, Treasurer. 25. San Francisco Classis will meet in St. John's Church, San Francisco, Cal., on Friday, June 2d, a. d. 1882, at 8 o'clock p.. M. Rev. J. Fuendeling, President; Rev. C. F. Wahlecker, Stated Clerk; and Elder P. Weiland, Treasui-er. 2(5. Portland-Oregon Classis will meet in St. Peter's Reformed Church at Beaver Creek, Oregon City, Clackamas county, Oregon, on Thursday, June 8th, a. d. 1882, at 7 : .SO o'clock p.m. Rev. j" Muellhaupt, P;-€6-/c/e?t/ ; Rev. J. Lange, Slated Clerk; and Elder F. Koellermeier, Treasurer. Respectfully submitted, Hy. St. J. RiNKER, Chairman. Items 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 10 to 26 inclusive, were severally adopted. For the action of the Synod on item 4, see Article XIX., Church Government ; on items 7 and 8, see Article XXI., Miscel- laneous ; and on item 9, see Article XVII., Complaints. ARTICLE XI. EXAMINATION, LICENSURE AND ORDINATION. The Standing Committee on Examination, Licensure and Ordi- nation reported as follows, which was adopted, to wit : The Committee on E.^amination, Licensure and Ordination report that there has been nothing for the Committee to do. Respectfully submitted, Geo. W. Glessner, Chairman. 14 ARTICLE XII. STATE OP RELIGION AND STATISTICAL REPORTS. The Standing Committee on the State of Religion and Statistical Reports presented the following report, during the session of Mon- day evening, which was received, amended, and adopted, and is as follows : REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON STATE OF RELIGION — SYNOD OF POTOMAC. Reverend Fathers and Brethren : Through the mercy of God, we have been permitted to meet once more as a Synod, to hear and tell what God has done for us and wrought by us, and in our midst, and to devise means and measures, looking to the building up, increase and prosperity of our Reformed Zion. Through dangers seen and unseen, through dilScuIties and trials, often sore and severe, and amidst the shafts of death which are flying all around us, striking down one here and another there, God has safely led us on and brought us here. And here we are to-day, ministers and elders, the monuments of God's watchful, preserving, and loving care. Well may each one of us ex- claim : " What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me'i"' and, '' Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless Ilis holy name.'' We are called on, and it is meet and right for us so to do, to thank God that we are permitted to meet as brethren, to dwell together, deliberate, and con- sult with each other in unity and peace. Thank God, that the peace move- ment, which was inaugurated over three years ago, has been happily consum- mated, and that peace and harinony now reigri throughout the length and breadth of the Church. Instead of wasting their energies in fruitless contro- versies, unhallowed bickerings and strife, the brethren can now, and do now, as the Classical reports, in the opinion of your committee, clearly show, employ themselves more in working for God, for the salvation of souls, and for the prosperity and good of the Church. Now, as a consequence, in part, of the reign of peace and harmony through- out the Church, the reports of the difTerent Classes come to us fraught witli glad tidings — with good news. They tell us, that God has prospered us, and blessed the labors of His ministering servants, during the past year, to an extent, and in a degree, not known in any previous year of the history of this Synod. They tell us, that in every department of Church work, and in every interest pertaining to such work, considerable progress has been made; that ministers and people have not been asleep, nor standing idle in the vineyard of the Lord ; that our people are becoming more and more alive to their duty, and, to an encouraging degree, have been doing what their hands found to do; that ministers have been alive to the responsibilities resting on them, as God's ambassadors, and faithful to their ordination vows; that they have been ac- tive, earnest and zealous, in discharging the duties of their calling, in preach- ing the Gospel, in visiiing the sick and dying, and administering to them the consolations of religion, in catechising the young and receiving members into the Church, and in administering the sacraments. And their labors, it ap- pears, were not in vain, but l-esulted in producing much fruit to the glory of God, in the numbers brought to a knowledge of the truth, made savingly ac- quainted with Christ, and in the edification and growth in grace of believers. The reports, that have come down to us from the different Classes, inform us, that an unusual number of new churches have been built during the last year, and many old ones repaired and beautified. This, too, certainly has its significance. Say not,, that all this is in the interest of pride and vain show. 15 It evidences, tliat there is a right spirit at work amongst our people. Where there is no love for God's house, no interest taken in its proper coulelines^<, decency and heauty ; where there is no desire tliat God may have a house worthy His glorious cliaracter and name, there is very little true piety — little of the spirit of true devotion. If we love God, we will certainly love the house in which He is worshipped, and where He meets and blesses His peo- ple. Where there is no true reverence for God, there is no reverence for tlie house in whicli He has recorded His name, and in which He dwells. How can we feel rij^ht, and worship God ariglit, in spirit and in truth, in an un- siglitly, uncomely, and iilthy liouse of worship ? Where there is true zeal for God, tiiere certainly is zeal for His sanctuary — a zeal that has regard for, and looks to, its beauty and comeliness. The grace of liberality has abounded amongst our people during the past year, and abounded to a greater extent tiian in any previous year. The different objects of benevolence were remembered and tolerably well sus- tained and supported, (tolerably well sustained and supported in comparii^on with the support they received in former years.) Would to God, that this giace — tlie grace of liberality— may abound still more and more, and that our people may soon be brougiit to see and feel, that tiiey are not their own, but belong to their faitliful Saviour, Jesus Christ, and that all they have belongs to Him, and sliould be consecrated to His service and cause. The language of one Classical report is : " An advance has been made on the part of our people in liberality. Tiie pastors present all came prepared to meet the as- sessments laid by Classis on tlieir several charges, and some of them have gone considerably beyond what they were asked by Classis to do, in order to meet the pressing wants of the Church." Another Classical report says : " We notice, with special pleasure, the increased benevolence of the churches. The cause of Missions, Home and Foreign, has been more faithfully remembered than usual." The report coming from another Classis conveys the pleasin.^ intelligence, that within the bounds of that Classis, '• the amounts raised for the ditlerent benevolent objects and interests of the Church have been much increased over that of former years." It says further : " It is with joy we hail the increasing spirit of lil)erality, for it is evidently indicative of growth in spiritual life, light and love.'' The acts and proceedings of another Classis, at its last annual meeting, reveal the fact, that, within the bounds of that Classis, " the duty of giving Ls better understood." Our brethren on the Pacilic coast are not idle, but doing all they can to push forward the work committed to their hands. In spite of the limited means at tiieir disposal, — in spite of the difficulties with which they have to contend, and of many discouragements, they are doing a good work. The truih is, taking all things into consideration, they are doing remarkably well. They deserve the gratitude of the Church for their self-denying efforts and labors to extend the boundaries of, and build up, the Keformed Church in those remote regions of our land. From the different Classical reports we gather the gratifying intelligence, that our people are becoming more and more interested in Foreign missionary work, and more and more disposed in the way of sympathy, and by their money and prayers, to further the good cause of Foreign Missions, and sustain our missionary now in the foreign field. Tiiis is as it should be. We need not look for much success in our efforts to build up our Church at home, if we shut up our bowels of compiission from the benighted heathen, and close our ears against the Macedonian cry, coming up to us from the dark corners of the earth : " Come over and help us." Your Committee is glad to rei)ort increased interest on the part of ministers and people in tlie Sunday-school cause. Conventions have been held, and various other means and methods employed for the purpose of waking up our people to a lively sense of the importance of Sunday-schools, and stirring them 16 up to increased activity in Snnday-scliool work. The language of one of the Classical reports, in reference to this subject, is as follows : " We notice with great pleasure, that tlie Sunday-school work of the Classis is receiving special care and attention on the part of the ministry and people. Conventions have been held in eacii district, and new energy awakened by their influence." So say pretty much all the reports. * One of our ministerial brethren has gone to his reward since we last met. The Rev. John H. Sykes was called suddenly and unexpectedly away after his return home from the last meeting of Synod. In the midst of his useful- ness and labors he was summoned to his reward. In the language of Wesley, " His labors with his life laid dfiwii, He ceased at once to work and live." And here it is well also to make mention of the death of the Kev. Dr. Fisher. Though not a member of this Synod, still it is proper, on account of a long life spent in the service of the Church, and his many and valuable ser- vices rendered to the Church, to make honorable mention of his name here. He died away from his home, in TifHn, Ohio, shortly after tiie adjournment of the General Synod. It becomes us all to lay to heart the admonition of the Saviour: " Tlierefore be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh." But, alas ! we have not all sweet to offer you. We have not all good news. AVith the sweet there is also a little that is bitter. With the good evil is alway.s mixed. Sorrow is often mingled with our joys, and pain with plea- sure. So it always has been in this world, and so we may expect it to be as long as the world stands. There is no pleasure here without being received, to a certain extent, with pain, and no sweet without its bitter. The reports coming down to us from the different Classes, whilst they contain much tliat is encouraging and comforting, much to cheer our hearts, much to awaken hope for the future, and much to stimulate us to renewed exertion in time to come, they contain much also that is calculated to sadden the heart. The Church is, and will be, as long as she is in this world, militant. In her, darkness M'ill be mingled with light, error witii truth, evil with good, right- eousness and holiness with sin, as long as she is in her militant state. And it is certain, judging from the classical reports, that our branch of the Church, as well as other branches of the Church Catholic, has not yet reached her proj;er status, and attained her pro]ier position in the sight of God, and in the scale of Christian perfection. She is still lacking in many respects — still far from being what she ought to be. She has still enough to lament over. She has still to mourn over the imperfections, short-comings and sins of her members; of indifierence on the part of many towards her ordinances, means of grace, and things spiritual, divine and heavenly ; to mourn becau-^e so many within our fold dishonor their profession, and do not walk worthy of the calling wherewith they were called ; to lament and mourn because many within her pale love the world more than they love God, and because greed for the world prevents them from discharging their duty to God and the Church, in the way of liberally supporting and sustaining every good cause. " Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the Church, by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." Respectfully submitted, Geo. H. Martin, Chairman. [For Statistical Tables see Appendix.] 17 ARTICLE^XIII. EDUCATION. The Board of Education presented its annual report to the Synodt during Thursday forenoon's session, which was received, and then referred to the Standing Committee on Education. The repor, is as follows, to wit : I. REPORT OF THE BOARD OP EDUCATION. To the Reverend Synod of the Potomac : Tlie Board of Educa'ion bogs leave to prefient to the Synod the following report of its operations, during the past synodical year: At its meeting in Woodstock, iield near the close of the last annual sessions of the Synod, the Boani was organized by tlie re election of the ollicers of the previous year, and by the re-appointment of the same Executive Committee. The Board had under its care, and supervision, during the last synodical year, seven beneficiary students. Four of these pursued tlieir studies in the Theological Seminary at Lancaster, Pa. Two of them completed the full three years' course in the Seminary last May, and were regularly graduated from that institution. On the day following their graduation, they were duly licensed to preach the gospel by the Mercersburg Classis, at an adjourned meeting held in Chambersburg, Pa. One of the theological students, by permission of the Board, and also of the Classis aiding him, was allowed to intermit his studies in the Middle Class of tlie Seminary last January, with the view of spending a year or two in teaching, and then resuming and concluding his theological studie:^. At the present time, the Board has only four beneficiaries to furnish with funds. One of these is a member of the Senior and another a member of the Junior Class in the Seminary. And one is in the Senior Class and the remaining one in the Junior Class of Franklin and Marsiiall College. Thus it will be seen, that in less tlian a year hence the Board will have under its care only three beneliciary students, unless, in the mean time, others are received under its supervision and care. By a careful examination of the Minutes of the General Synod and the several District Synods, the painful faot becomes apparent, that there is, at the present lime, a gradual diminution going on in the number of young men pre- paring tiiemselves for the gospel ministry in our Church. Whilst the borders of our Zion are being extended, and tlie demand for thoroughly equipped workmen is increasing, the number of those in a regular course of training for tiie needed work is gradually growing less from year to year. Pastoral charges also are being divided and new ones formed. Eflicient pastors like- wise are being removed by the hand of death. At the present time, the num- ber of candidates for the ministry in our branch of the Church catholic is not adequate to supply these demands, let alone meet a true missionary spirit, such as should by all means characterize us. If this state of afiairs is suflered to continue, it will not be long until the Reformed Church can disband her Boards of Education and close her Theological Seminaries. Is it right and proper, beloved bretliren of the Synod, for us to close our eyes against such Bolenni facts as these, which so painfully confront us, and not endeavor, as Ciiristian men, to meet them? A living personal ministry is absolutely essential to the existence of the Church among men. Now, as in the Apostolic age, the Ciuirch rests, not on abstract confession or given system f)f theology, but on a living personal min- istry — on the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner-stone. An ordained ministry, acting under an apostolic 2 18 commission, and presenting to men, continually from age to age, the mysteries of grace ihrongh their ofHce, divinely originated, and of truly supernatural character and force, must be maintained by any Church which claims to act in the name of Clirist for the salvation of men. ^Nothing, therefore, can be of more profound and solemn concern to the Reformed Church, than the fact which so painfully challenges it, in an actual and marked decrease in the num- ber of those preparing for the work of the holy ministry. In order to secure candidates for the sacred office, there must be a prevailing consecration to the Cliurch among our people, such as will serve to challenge our young men as a voice from Christ Himself, to set themselves apart for the Lord, to prepare for the work of the Christian ministry. And just here the question confronts us. How can this necessary spirit of consecration lo the Church of Christ be more universally enkindled among our people, that our young men may, at all times, be called out and stimulated to dedicate them- selves to the ministry, as called thereto by the very community where they are? Of course, much is dependent here upon the earnest activity of our pastors. As were St. Paul and his co-laborers, so must they be anxious to devote the first fruits of their labors, of their catechisation and pastoral super- vision and visitation, especially to the office of the ministry. They must keep steadily before their faith that the richest bloom of their whole work is that of having pointed and carried forward their spiritual sons to the rank of co- laborers with themselves in the vineyard of the Lord. And, if at all earnest in our work of securing students to study and prepare themselves for ordination, we cannot, of course, fiiil, at the same time, to be equally interested in the matter of securing the necessary funds to assure the full education of the sauie for their solemn and responsible work. The two are, in our mind, inseparable. J/Iost signally, too, in the case of the ministry, has the declaration of the Saviour shown profound truthfulness, that '' the poor always ye have with you." It is emphatically from the ranks of the poor, in a great majority of cases, that the candidates for the ministry in the Reformed Church come. The office itself, which involves the idea of great self-denial, seems to necessitate this. " Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called.'' The whole subject is respectfully referred to the most earnest and prayerful consideration of the Svnod, now in session. The Board thankfully acknowledges the receipt, a few months since, of $300.00, being a part of the bequest of Samuel Bu.5sard, formerly an elder in the Friend's Cove Church of Bedford county. Pa., who died several years ago. The Treasurer of the Board gratefully acknowledges the receipt of the fol- lowing contributions for Beneficiary Education, during the last fiscal year. The aggregate sum contributed by each pastoral charge is given, omitting the items and dates of payment : SYNOPSIS OF treasurer's REPORT. Maryland Classis. Sunday-school of Evangelical Reformed Church of Frederick, Anni- versary Offering 195 67 Evangelical Reformed Church of Frederick 92 16 First Church of Baltimore 45 00 Hagerstown Charge 42 40 Middletown Charge 40 00 Cavetown Charge 30 00 Third Ciiurch of Baltimore . . . • • 30 00 Manchester Charge 25 00 Mechanicstown Charge 18 00 St. Paul's Church of Baltimore 17 50 19 !Mount Moriali Charge 15 00 Jefierson Charge 15 00 Westminster Charge 9 08 Mount Pleasant Charge 5 00 Amount $479 81 Mercersburg Classis. Chambersburg Charge . . . . • $50 00 Waterstreet " • . • 50 00 Bedford " 45 00 Yellow Creek " 25 00 Greenfield " 24 65 Orbisonia " 24 00 Woodcock Valley " • . 28 00 St. Thomas " 20 00 Mont Alto " 20 00 Martinsburg " 15 00 Greencastle '' 15 00 Altoona " 15 00 Wavnesboro " 13 50 Huntingdon " 13 35 Everett " 10 54 Loudon " 10 07 St. Clairsville " 10 00 Friend's Cove " 10 00 Sulphur Spring " 10 00 Clover Creek '' 5 00 Hickory Bottom " 6 00 St. John's Church of Chambersburg 5 00 Shippensburg Charge 5 00 McConnellsburg " : 3 00 Schellaburg '* 1 74 Amount • ?429 85 Virginia Classis. InterestonAbsalomEinkerlegacy, perRev. J. A. Hoffheins, Treas. . ?160 00 Bequests. Beque.st, in part, of Samuel Bus.sard, late of Friend's Cove, Pa. . . $300 00 Int. on Jacob Stoudenour legacy for one year, per Treas. of Synod . 12 00 RECAPITULATION. Summary of Receipts. October 11, 1880. Balance in Treasury $276 10 Received from Maryland Classis 479 81 '' '' Mercersburg . 429 85 Part of bequest of Samuel Bussard 300 00 Interest on Absalom Rinker's legacy 160 00 Interest on Jacob Stoudenour's legacy 12 00 Total Receipts $1,657 76 20 Summary of Payments. Paid beneficiary students of Mercersburg Classis $356 25 " " Maryland Classis 337 50 " " Virginia Classis 175 00 Postage, revenue stamps, etc. , • 2 21 October 17, 1881. Balance in Treasury 786 80 Total payments $,1,657 76 Respectfully submitted by The Board of Education. We hereby do certify, that we have carefully audited the account of Rev. William M. Deatrick, Treasurer of the Board of Education of the Synod of the Potomac, by vouchers, and find the same to be correct. The foregoing Synopsis and Recapitulation are a true and faithful statement of the same. There is a balance in the Treasury, at this date, of $786.80. Mercersburg, Pa., October 17, 1881. I. G Brown, 1 ^ J.Hassler, I Committee. II. REPORT OF BOARD OF VISITORS OF THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY. The following is the Report of the Board of Visitors of the Theological Seminary, as furnished by the Secretary of the Board, to wit : To the Synod of the Potomac : Dear Brethren: The Board of Visitors of the Theological Seminary presents to your honorable body through the undersigned, the following as their Annual Report : At the opening of the Seminary in September one year ago, the following persons wei"e admitted as members of the Junior Class, fourteen in number : Solomon A. Alt, Benjamin F. Bausman, William F. Faber, Geo. W. Gerliard, Daniel N. Harnish, John N. Ploobaugh, Alfred P. Horn, Charles W. Levan, Henry H. Saugus, David B. Schneder, Frank W. Smith, Adam S. Weber, Jairus A. Wickert and George A. Zeller. The Rev. S. Olin Garrison, an or- dained minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, having previously pur- sued his studies in the Drew Seminary of his own Church, wishing to avail himself of the opportunity aflbrded him as missionary in the city of Lancaster, to complete his theological studies, was admitted to the privileges of the Sem- inary, and he finished his studies with the Senior Class. As a matter of regret we state that several of the students were under the necessity of absenting themselves from the Seminary during the whole or a part of the year on account of ill health, or because they found it necessary to engage in teaching in order to increase their funds for their support in the future. The conduct and diligence of the students in the discharge of their duties have, as a general thing, been good and commendable. They seek to make themselves useful in the Sunday School, and during the year, a new in- terest has been awakened among them in the cause of missions and fostered in Iheir weekly meetings. The examinations at the close of the year were listened to with much interest by the Board, and were approved as satisfactory. Tlie members of the Senior Class, having completed the prescribed course of studies, and sustained their final examination creditably in the presence of the Board, received the regular certificate of dismission prepared for this purpose, setting forth these facts, at the Anniversary of the Seminary in May last. They are eleven in number, and their names are as follows : Albert A. Black, T. A. 21 Fpnstermaclier, S. Olin Garrison, Edwin A. Gernant, Edgar S. Hassler, Cos- mos H. Herbst, Newton J. Miller, Cyrus J. Miisser, George B. Kesser, Calvin S. Slagle and Joshua Wolbaoh. Most of them have entered upon the active duties of the ministry, and are occupying fields of usefulness in the Church. The Board is satisfied with the work done by the Seminary during the past year, and believe that there is cause for gratitude and thanksgiving to the Head of the Church for the measure of prosperity, with which fie has hitherto favored our School of the Prophets The whole number of students reported in the annual catalogue, present and absent, was 31. Hitherto the Board of Visitors lias been acting in the capacity of a Board of Education, but in accordance with the action of the Synod of the U. S., last year, the members of the Board of Visitors belonging to that Synod, have or ganized thfn'selves into a Board of Education, which will hereafter transact its business apart from the sessions of the Board. The report of the Treasurer is annexed to this report. The Secretary is further instructed to direct the attention of said Sjnod to the following action of the Board of Visitors at its last Annual Meetir.g. Resolved, That the President of the Board be instructed to draw an order on the Treasurer of the Board of Trustees of the Theological Seminary in favor of Dr. Theodore Appel for $40 for salary as Secretary of tb.e Board fcr two years, ordered to be paid by the Synod at its last Annual Metiing at Meyers- town, Pa., and also §20 as salary for the present year, and likewise an order on said Treasurer in favor of the President for expenses incurred in the trans- mission of sermons of the graduating class through the mail and per express — amounting to $2.31 — as ordered by the Synod at the above meeting. Resolved, That in case the Treasurer of the Theological Seminary refuses to honor the above orders, the Secretary of the Board be instructed to incorporate the fact in the annual report of this Board to Synod by way of complaint. In accordance with the last of these resolutions, I hereby inform the Synod, that the Treasurer of the Theological Seminary has refused to honor the orders above referred to when presented to him. I further state that he has refused to pay an order drawn on him by the President of the Board for $10.00, the amount needed to pay for the new diploma or " certificate of dismission " pre- pared by the Secretary as ordered by the Board. liespectfuUy submitted, Theodore Appel, Sec'y of the Board. III. REPORTS OF THE BOARDS OF TRUSTEES OF THE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AND TREASURER. The following Reports were received from the Board of Trustees and of the Treasurer of the Theological Seminary, to wit : To the Synod of the Potomac: Brethren : The Board of Trustees of Theological Seminary respectfully pre- sent their Annual Report : The usual meetings have been held during the year, and the routine business of the Board has been transacted. We received a copy of the action of the Synod of the U. S., directing our Treasurer '' to pay all orders drawn on him by the President of the Board of Visitors, for all incidental and legitimate expenses incurred by the Board in the transaction of its business." We have not complied with this action of said Synod for the very sufficient reason that we are about three hundred dollars short of necessary funds to pay the legitimate expenses of the Seminary proper, and we do not understand the action of Synod to mean that these drafts upon our Treasurer shall take precedence of regular standing obligations, such as Professors' salaries, coal. 22 light, etc., incurred in running the Institution. We doubt, also, the authority of the Synod of the United States, to pass such action without the concurrence of the other two Synods represented in both the Board of Trustees and Board of Visitors of the Seminary. Since our last report, some of our investments have been paid, and we have been compelled to reinvest at 5 per cent, interest, and at this time we are notified by holders of $13,000 of our funds, that unless we allow them to keep their loans at 5 per cent., they will pay them. Our experience is only the same as others. The Treasurer of the Synod of the U. S. has had to invest at the same rate of interest, and so also the Finance Committee of Franklin and Marshall College. About $4,000 of our endowment fund bears no interest and is practically worthless, consisting of Classical notes, etc., which by tacit consent the Synod of the U. S. has never authorized us to push to collection, if indeed they are collectable. Another source of unavoidable expense is the keeping up the Professors' houses. The heating apparatus and other absolutely necessary repairs this year will amount to over $200 in excess of our regular expenses for repairs. In view of these facts, we think that instead of adding to the drafts upon our Treasurer, it may be necessary, in the near future, for Synod to furnish us aid, tiiat we may be able to meet the legitimate and unavoidable expenses incurred in running the Institution. Two years ago, the Synod of the U. S. passed an action requesting the congregations to pay to our Treasurer the proceeds of one collection during the year. The total receipts from this source were $24.09. From this it appears that nearly every Pastor present at thatmeeting of Synod and voting for this action went home to his charge and ignored the request of Synod. We call the attention of Synod to the fact that the Seminary property at Mercersburg, Pa., leased by this Synod to the Regents of Mercersburg College, has been advertised for sale by the Sheriff of Franklin county during the cur- reui year. The Regents of Mercersburg College have mortgaged the lease, and on this mortgage judgment has been obtained, and the Sheriff advertised it for sale. We consider the property in danger so long as this mortgage is suffered to remain. It is for the Synods to determine if any action is needed to pro- tect their interests in this property. If it should be sold under this mortgage, it may pass out of the control of our Church. Respectfully submitted, D. W. Gross, President. Jno. B. Roth. Treasurer. Edw. J. Za^m, Bee. Secretary. Lancaster, Pa., Oct. 6th, 18S1. The following is the statement of the Treasurer referred to in the above report : II. tkeasurer's report. John B. Roth, Treasurer of the Theological, Seminary, in aect., Dr. Endowment Fund, Oct. 1, 1881, Total of Fund $69,299 76 Of this sum $2,000 yields no interest. Dr. For sundry interests received from Oct. 1, 1880, to Oct. 1, 1881 . . $4,946 99 Ck. By sundry bills and salary paid per vouchers to Seminary Board $6 382 66 Amount Dr. brought down 4,946 99 Balance due Treasurer Oct. 1, 1881 $1,435 67 23 Library Fund. Amount of Fund ?2,0G9 96 Oct, 1, 1881. For sundry interest received to date and in hand . . $245 42 Cb. Oct. 1,1881. By sundry bills paid to date 115 54 Balance in hands of Treasurer 129 88 Snialtz Fund. Amount of Fund ?5,000 00 Dr. Oct. 1, 1881. For balance in hand Oct. 1, 1880, and sundry inte- rest received to dale ?333 39 Cr. Oct. 1, 1881. By sundry orders paid by Treasurer 333 39 Building Fund. Oct. 1, 1880. Amount reported to Board 12,396 05 March 24, 1881. Note paid 300 00 Total of Fund Oct. 1, 1881 §12,696 05 Pittsburgh Prof. Fund, Oct. 1,1881, Amount of Fund ?1,718 30 Respectfully submitted, JoHX B. Roth, Treas. Lancaster, Oct. 1, 1881. The undersigned Auditing Committee having examined the Treasurer's accounts and compared his vouchers, find them correct. Geo. W. Henpel, Lancaster, Pa., Oct. 1, 1881. Edw'd J. Zahm. IV, REPORT OP COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION. The Standing Committee on Education, to whom the foregoing Report of the Board of Education, and Reports of the Board of Visitors, Board of Trustees of the Theological Seminary at Lan- caster, Pa , and Treasurer, had been referred, reported during the session of Monday evening. Their report was considered item by item, adopted as a whole, and is as follows : Your Committee on Education have had placed in their hands reports from the Board of Education, the Board of Visitors, the Board of^Trustees of the Theological Seminary, with their Treasurer's account, and a letter from the Corresponding Secretary of the Northern Illinois Classis. In the Report of the Board of Education, the fact of a very limited number of students for the ministry, at this time under the care of the Board, is urged upon the attention of Synod. It is the principal consideration of the report; and wiiich is the more earnest for the reason, that the small number of men from dur own territory is but the showing of what obtains in the Church at large. The cause is doubtless a local and definite one; but it is the more alarming, as the Board indicates, in view of the fact that it is not siniply local — a temporary reaction it may be of a former effort in this direction, or some other cause peculiar to ourselves, but that we are passing under a more for- 24 midable and subtle power of the evil affecting the general life of the Church. The Board has looked into the matter carefully, as gathered from the Minutes of the General Synod and the several District Synods, and says, that there is a gradual diminution in the number of young men preparing for the ministry. On this account it becomes us to give special attention to this particular part of our work, and your committee proposes that the following resolution be adopted : Resolved, That the Synod hereby solemnly counsels its Pastors and Elders to keep in mind this important part of their work of selecting and bringing up suitable young men for the ministry ; and that, as a necessary part of this work, they continue to commend and urge upon our people the cause of Bene- ficiary Education. The Report mentions also the receipt of $300.00, as a part of the bequest of Samuel Bussard, of the Friend's Cove congregation, and your committee pro- pose the following action with regard to it: Resolved, That this act of testatory benevolence meets the cordial approval of the Synod, and is commended as a good example of Christian love. The Board of Visitors of the Seminary report, that it is satisfied with the work done during the past year. Eleven students were graduated. The whole number catalogued for the past year is thirty one. The Board of Trustees of tiie Seminary inform us, that they are about $300.00 short of funds to meet the standing obligations — such as professors' salaries, coal, light, etc., — and that there will be for the year ensuing an una- voidable expen.se of over $-00.00 in e.rce.ss, for regular repairs at tlie professors' houses. They say, moreover, that some of their investments were paid them, and could be reinvested at no higlier rate of interest than tive per cent. ; that they have been notified by holders of $13,000.00, that unless they may hold their loans at five per cent, they will be paid. Your committee propose the following resolutions for adoption: Resolved, That this Synod has full confidence in the financial and moral ability with regard to the Seminary funds, and simply asks that the be.st be done that can be done. Resolved, That this Synod assume one-third of last year's deficiency, that is $100.00, and that this sum be referred to the Committee on Finance, for ap- portionment among the Classes. From this same Keport we learn, that the necessary expenditures of the Board of Visitors have not been paid. Tiie Board of Trustee.s, for want of funds for one reason, refused to pay these expenses; and for anotber, they do not feel themselves autiiorized to pay them, excepting they be directed by the several Synods conjointly interested, and represented in the Boards of Trustees and Visitors. Your committee thinks that tliese expenses ougbt to be provided for and paid promptly, and offers for adoption the following resolution : Resolved, That this Synod concurs with the .Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States in directing the Treasurer of the Theological Seminary to pay the order of the President of the Board of Visitors for neces.sary expenses, and that this Synod will meet its proper portion, when informed of the amount due. From the same Report we are also informed that the Seminary property at Mercersburg is in danger, on account of a mortgage given by the Board of Regents on the Lease ; on which mortgage judgment lias been obtained. The Board thinks that it is the business of tlie Synod of the Reformed Ciuirch in the United States, with the concurrence of the other two Synods, to determine whether any action is needed to protect the interests of this property. Your committee thought proper to note this fact, but think* that no action in this connection is necessary, since the Synod has can^^assed this whole subject already, and made provision against the troubles referred to. But your com- 25 raittee thinks also, that the Corresponding Secretary ought to be directed to inform the Board of Trustees of what has been done. In answer to tlie request of the Nortliern lilinois Classis, bv a letter from its Corresponding Secretary, to permit an agent to enter tlie territory of this Synod for fimds for the founding of a College at Foreston, Ogle county, 111., we ofler the following: Rexolv&l, That the Synod appreciates the earnest mind of the brethren of the Northern Illinois Classis in their work of education, but at this time is unable to extend to them any financial help, for the reason mainly, that the institu- tion of learning located in our own midst is at this time in need of relief and a very special effort for its upbuilding. Resolved, That the Corresponding Secretary be and is hereby dii-ected to communicate this action to the Corresponding Secretary of that ClasMS. Respectfully submitted, Wm. a. Gring, Chairman. MEECERSBURG COLLEGE. The Board of Regents of JNIercersburg College presented their annual report to the Synod, during the session of Friday afternoon, which was received, and is as follows : REPORT OF THE BOARD OP REGENTS OF MERCERSBURG COLLEGE. To the Reverend Synod of the Potomac : The Board of Regents of Mercersburg College begs leave to present to the Synod the following annual report : — The Board was reorganized at Woodstock, Ya., during the meeting of the last Synod, by tlie election of Rev. J. S. Kieffer, as Secretary, E. .1. Bonbrake, Esq., of Chamber.-burg, Pa., as Treasurer, and the undersigned, as President. Several meetings of the Board were held during the past Synodical year. The past year was, in various respects, a most serious and trying one to your Board. In the judgment of the Board it became absolutely necessary to suspend the educational work of the College immediately after the adjournment of the last annual meeting of the Synod, and thereby prevent tlie further increase of its indebtedness, inasmuch as the institution, as then in operation, was running into debt at the rate of at least three thousand dollars a year. At a special meeting of the Board held in Chambersburg, Pa., October 25th, 1880, it was deemed proper, in accordance with the advice and action of the last Synod, to prepare and send out a very earnest appeal to the pastors of the Synod to make collections in their respective pastoral charges, for the immediate relief of the institution. Such appeal was regularly issued in the early part of last November, but — '' Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon " — only two pastors made any response to the appeal. Anulphur Spring, Bedford Co. — Congregations, 3. Members, 169 Baptisms, 24. Additions, 9. Sunday-schools, 2, union. Benevolence, $62. Local objects, $503. The mission was established in 1873. It has built a new church at Mann's Choice worth $1,800, and a parsonage worth $1,600. These two buildings were paid for gradually from year to year ; the remaining indebtedness was paid off during the year. It has been making progress, internally and externally, and its prospects for the future are good. The pastor, W. A. Gring, was recently called to another charge, and he left with the kind wishes of his people. Appro- priation last year, $200. Duncattnojt. — There are three congregations comprising this mission. The congregation at Marysville has improved its church building, and paid, in all, $300 for local purposes, which amounted to $10, on an ave- rage, for each member. The Missionary, Rev. U. H. Heilman, having 32 received a call from another charge in the church, there is a probability that he will accept of it and withdraw from the mission. The congre- gation at Duncannon is making a slow but encouraging progress. No statistics given. Appropriation last year, #225. First CJiurch, Al/e^heny City. — This mission has been vacant during the past year. It was thought best by the Board of Missions of the Pitts- burgh Synod that the arrangement made last year for its supply should be discontinued, and our missionary interests in Allegheny City were re- ferred to a committee of Classis. Nothing, as far as we know, has been done to revive the mission during the year, and the prospects are that it will lie dormant for the time being. We need very much a church organization in Allegheny City, and it is believed that the time will still come when, under more favorable circumstances, we again will be able to occupy this field. Shcjiandoah City. — No reports have been received from this mission during the year. It has hitherto stood under the supervision of the missionary department of the Ursinus Union. Appropriation last year, }«3oo ; this year, the same. Pastor, J. G. Neff. St. yo/in's Church, Johnstoiun. — Under the care of the Board two years. Members, 61. Baptisms, 15. Additions, 12. Losses, 2. For benevolence, $43. For local objects, about ;^i,5oo. The new church was dedicated in November last, and since then all the remaining in- debtedness — several hundred dollars — has been cancelled. Its cost was l3,ooo. This mission, during the short time it has been aided by the Board, has made a commendable degree of progress. Its beginnings were humble, and by no means encouraging to feeble sight. It has been largely, thu'. far, the work of faith, hope and charity. It received liberal aid from the citizens of Johnstown in the building of the church. Ap- propriation last year, $500 ; this year, the same. Paster, W. H. Bates. St. Luke s, LiDic aster.— 'iAaw^iQXS, ^\. Baptisms, 21. Additions, 18. S. S. scholars, 215. Whole number enrolled during the year, 260. For benevolence, $21.90. For local objects, $531.15. Value of property, $2,800. No indebtedness on property. The Sunday-school has largely increased during the year, and i- compo ed mostly of the children of the poor. Its weekly contributions — $60 — were nearly sufficient to pay its expenses. Contributions to pastor's salary, about $50. The balance of the expenses were met by the contributions of friends of the mission and proceeds of concerts and festivals. The Harbaugh Missionary So- ciety'was started during the year, ana holds regular monthly meetnigs, which are well attended. This mission is doing a good work among the poor in the suburbs of the city, and has been enjoying manifest tokens of the divuie favor since its organization, about three years ago. Ap- propriation last year, 1:300 ; this year, the same. Pastor, W. F. Lichliter. Overton, Bradford Co. — The prosperous condition of this mis ion, as presented m our last annual report, was interrupted by the withdrawal of its pastor, who accepted a call to another charge, with the approba- tion of Classis. Several effort.s have been made to secure a successor, but thus far without success. The opportunities for building up churches in this field are favorable, and it is hoped that a suitable person will be secured before long, who will come and carry forward the good work on the foundation which has been laid. Appropriation last year, $150. Vacant. Latrobe. — Two congregations. Members, 123. Additions, at Latrobe, 25. Baptisms, 10. S. S. scholars, 65. Benevolence, #50. For local 33 purposes, 5600, Cost of property, $7,200. Indebtedness, $1,850. Re- duction of indebtedness, $92.60. The mission seems to be looking up, and, if its progresn is slow, it is steady. The present pastor took charge of it during the year. He commenced preaching in Ligonier valley, where he organized a congregation of 25 members, which he has con- tinued to serve. Appropriation la-t year, $200; this year, the same. J'astor, S. H. Eisenberg. Trinity Mission, York Co. —This mission has disappointed the expec- tations of the Board and its friends. For a year or more it has made little or no progress It ha-", in fact, declined, and the Board has with- drawn its commis-ion from the missionary. It will, therefore, devolve on the Classis to devi-e measures by which its wants shall be provided for. Sharon, Mrrccr Co. —No reports. Statistics as reported in the minutes of General Synod. Members, 1S5 ; baptisms, 11; additions, 12; S. S. scholars, 69 ; benevolent objects, !$I5 ; local objects, S1800. The mis- sion is still vacant, but supplied by Rev. F. P. Hartmctz. Appropria- tion $100. New Castle, Lawrence Co. — Organized as a mission in January, 1880. Members, 44. Baptisms, 9. Unconfirmed members, 27. Additions, 9. Worships in a rented hall. An effort is now in progress to build a house of worship, which is much needed. The amount raised in subscriptions and cash up to this time is a fraction over $2,000. It is proposed to go forward in the erection of the new church yet this fall. It is to cost about $2,500, exclusive of the lot. Much of the time of the missionary has been occupied in securing subscriptions for the church in the town, and in congregations at a distance ; but its spiritual interests have not materially suffered. It is not likely that it will make considerable pro- gress until it is furnished with necessary church accommodations. Its prospects are encouraging. Appropriation last year, $450; this year, the same. Pastor, J. M. Souder. Marietta. — The congregation at Marietta, organized several years ago, was for some time a mission under the care of the Classis of Lancaster, and wa assisted by a number of its congregations. But the help thus obtained was not sufficient to support its pastor, and it appealed to the Board for a small appropriation, which wa< granted. The Classis con- nected it with the Maytown congregation, and so strengthened the charge. The mission is growing, and with some help in time of need, it has good prospects of becoming self-supporting at no distant day. The mission- ary. Rev. S. P. Brown, withdrew from the field last winter, and he was succeeded by the Rev. G. B. Resser in the spring. Appropriation, $100. Tionesta and Dubois. — Both of these points have been recognized as missions, and appropriations made for their support, but thus far they have been without missionary pastors. VIRGINIA. Winchester. — Although this mission was without a pastor for a time, it did not suffer any serious loss. Its members held together, ancl waited m faith and prayer for some one who should break unto them the bread of life. By the appointment of tlie Board, the Rev. A. R, Kremer took charge of it last spring. His labors thus far have had the effect to encourage the brethren and to inspire hope that his labors among them will be blessed. A reduction of $50 has been made in tlie church debt. $500 still remains to be paid. It will be gradually re- duced by the efforts of the Mite Society, which maintains itself in the 3 34 congregation with commendable zeal. No statistics have been furnished to us. Appropriation last year, $250. This year, the same. Pastor, A. R. Kremer. Mint Spring, Trinity Alissioji, AiigJista Co. — The new church at Mint Spring was finished last fall and a day appointed for its dedication, but when the time came for this solemn act it was decided that it should be postponed until the debt incurred should be in some way provided for. The new church, therefore, has not yet been dedicated, as there is still a debt of $128 resting on it. A Sunday school has been gathered together, and services have been held in the church every two weeks, which are well attended. As the Middlebrook charge has been strength- ened by a new church and a new congregation in the town of Middle- brook, it is now proposed to reconstruct it and unite one of its congrega- tions with Trinity Mission, so as to strengthen it and put it in the way of becoming self-sustaining. The Board has agreed to this arrangement, and, with the help of the Virginia Classis, proposes to make a small ap- propriation to each of the new charges, so soon as the new arrange- ment can be carried out. In a few years it is believed that there will be two respectable charges, where five years ago we had only one, and that without standing or influence. Appropriation last year, $150. Pastor, A. J. Whitmore. DELAWARE. St. John's, Wyoming, Kent Couttty. — In the early part of the year this charge became vacant by the resignation of the pastor. Rev. E. H. Dieffenbacher. A successor, however, was secured soon afterwards, so that it was not long vacant. Members, 95 ; Baptisms, 6 ; Additions, 5 ; Sunday-school scholars, 75 ; cost of property, $2,000. No indebtedness. Benevolence, $23.30. Local objects, $394.23. The failure in some of the crops has been a loss to the mission, but being rooted and grounded in the truth, it is making progress, and its prospects are encouraging. Organized as a mission in 1870. Appropriation last year, $250. This year, $150. Pastor, N. J. Miller. MARYLAND. Ciiniberlmid. — This mission has been under the care of the Board since 1867. It had been a mission many years previously. The pre- sent pastor has had charge of it now for seven years. Its growth has been gradual and its prospects are good. Members, 156; unconfirmed members, 112; Baptisms, 15; Additions, 20; Sunday-school scholars, no; value of property, $5,500, of cemetery, $1,000. Indebtedness on both $2,000. Amount of indebtedness paid off since 1867, $4,300; Benevolence, $50; Local objects, $750. Attendance good. Appropri- ation last year, $200. This year, the same. Pastor, F. R. Schwedes. Ridgely, Caroline Co. — This mission at present consists of three con- gregations, the first at Ridgely, the second in Queen Ann Co., and the third near Easton, in Talbot Co. Members, 73; Sunday-school scholars, 35 ; Baptisms, 14 ; Additions, 9. The new church at Ridgely is under roof but not yet finished, for the want of funds. The new church in Talbot county was dedicated a short time ago. It is a union church and cost between $400 and $500. Provision was made at the dedica- tion to pay off all remaining indebtedness by the different denominations represented in it, four in number. The congregation in Kent county, which is small, has not as yet any church. It worships in private houses, and, in the summer time, in a grove. It has met with losses by 35 deaths and removals, which have prevented it from securing for itself a building of its own. The missionary has not been adequately sup- ported, as the mission at Ridgely did not raise the amount of salary which was expected. The loss, however, was partially made up by missionary boxes and private contributions from friends of missions in Pennsylvania. He will need similar help during the coming winter. Appropriation last year, $325 ; this year, the same. Pastor, Joseph Han- nabery. East Baltimore. — The attention of the Board has been directed by the Classis of Maryland to the eastern portion of the city of Baltimore as a suitable place for the establishment of a new mission. Arrangements are at present being made to put up a chapel for the use of a mission Sunday-school and for preaching. One of the resident ministers of our church has consented to take charge of this interest for the present without any compensation. NORTH CAROLINA. Concord, Cabarrus Co. — At the recommendation of the Missionary Committee of the Classis of North Carolina, the Rev J. D. Gurley was commissioned to labor as missionary at Concord, about one year ago. We had some valuable members in the town, who came forward and were organized into a congregation. Services have been held regular- ly in a hall fitted up for the purpose every Sunday, and a fair beginning has been made. Mr. Gurley taught school for a while in order to minister to his support, but other schools having sprung up in the town this resort has failed him for the present. An effort was made at the Classis to connect some country congregations with the mission, but it was deemed premature at the time. This, however, may yet be ac- complished. Mr. Gurley has accepted of invitations to preach in nearly all the charges of the Classis, where his services were well received and highly appreciated In this way, as also by visiting missionary points in the bounds of the Classis, it is believed that his usefulness will be much increased from year to year. Appropriation, $250. Pastor, J. D. Gurley. Lificolnton. — A good while ago, there was a flourishing Refoirned con- gregation at Lincolnton, but owing to different causes it was suffered to decline, and nearly all of its members connected themselves with other denominations. For a number of years no Reformed minister preached in the place. A few members — only a few — remained true to the church of their fathers, and it was thought best to supply these with preaching, and to make an effort to revive the congregation, if possible. The Rev. J. A. Foil, who had been preaching occasionally in the town, was commissioned during the year by the Board to take charge of this in- terest, with a small appropriation. He has been preaching at this point once in four weeks, and has had good audiences. It, however, needs more attention than Mr. Foil can give it in connection with his other engagements. It may possibly be connected with other points within the bounds of Classis hereafter, where preaching is called for, and a new missionary field be formed, in which good results might be expected. A small class of catechumens has been formed at Lincolnton. Appropria- tion, $50. Pastor, J. A. Foil. Moffitf s Grove. — This congregation came under the care of the Board during the past year. The members were poor, and the Rev. J. W. Cecil had served it for several years with little or no compensation. It has no church of its own, but has been worshipping in a school house. 36 conveniently adapted to its purposes. Under these circumstances it was constituted a mission, and the Board made a small appropriation for the support of its pastor. Mr. Cecil has recently withdrawn from the field, and it will devolve on the Classis to provide for its spiritual wants, either by connecting it with some other charge or by temporary supplies through its missionary committee. Members, 41 ; Baptisms,. 2 ; Additions i ; Appropriation, $50. Vacant. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Washingto7i. — During the past year the attention of this mission has been mainly occupied in securing for itself a suitable house of worship. The members were first called on for their subscriptions, and they all gave liberafly for their circumstances. The pastor, the Rev. C. F. Son- tag, then spent several months in visiting the churches, and succeeded in raising the amount of subscriptions to a little over ^2,000, when steps were taken by the committee of Maryland Classis to go forward with the erection of a new church. The contract was awarded to good and re- sponsible persons. It is in good taste, in the style of Queen Ann, and the cost will be $4,100. The building is now in the process of erection. It is expected to be paid for by the subscriptions already received and some that are still to be secured, which will be supplemented by the proceeds of the assessments made on the Classes, after all the payments on the ground are made. There are still two payments to be made on the ground — one this fall and the other next spring — of $607 each. After the building is finished, and the congregation has the conve- niences of a church of its own, the mission will be placed on a perma- nent foundation, and with the divine blessing will succeed. The labors of the pastor have been interrupted during the year, partly by sickness and partly by necessary absence from home. Fifteen persons have been added to the church, five baptized and two buried. The Sunday- school is yet small. Appropriation, 3600 ; this year, the same. Pastor, C. F. Sontag. NEW YORK. Netv Y^k. — Our Board has continued to assist the Board of the Eastern Carman Synod, in the support of this mission. The members composing it had felt it to be their duty to withdraw from an indepen- dent congregation, in which they had been accustomed to worship, and organize themselves into a congregation, under Pastor Fox, as mission- ary. During the past year a reconciliation was effected between the two divisions, and a new organization accomplished, distinctively Reformed, in connection with the German Synod, under the pastorship of Mr. Fox. The re-union was cordial, and the event was celebrated by a special service in the church last spring. The mission has a church of its own on 9th Avenue near 50th Street, well located to exert a good influence on a large class of foreign Germans in the city. Appropria- tion, $300. Pastor, F. Fox. KANSAS. St. PaiiPs Reformed Church, Emporia. — Under the care of the Board two years — members, 25; unconfirmed members, 25; baptisms, 6; additions, 6 ; losses, II ; cost of property, $3000 ; Indebtedness, $600; for benevolence, $5 ; for local objects, in addition to what was paid for the erection of the church, $175. The new church was dedicated last November, amidst general rejoicing in the Mission, and among its friends on the outside. The event helped to inspire confidence and to place 37 the Mission on a more permanent basis. Since June last, the pastor has been supplying a mission at Holton, in Jackson County, which had lost its pastor, and was suffering seriously. Under his care it has re- vived somewhat, and a catechetical class has been formed. He also preached at Whiting, twelve miles distant from Holton, and has been preparing the way for organizations at Valley Falls and Harensville, with the view of connecting these points with Holton, and so form a pastoral charge. He further visited lola, in Kansas, and Raymore in Missouri, near the State line, baptized the children, and sought to pre- pare the way for the labors of a missionary in the future. His attention was directed to other pomts, but his time would not allow him to visit them. The missionary labors under the disadvantage of not owning a conveyance, and is without the means of hiring one when needed to enable him to visit various points in the neigh- borhood. After these openings for the establishment of new mis- sions were reported the Board deemed it necessary to send an- other missionary to Kansas, and accordingly, commissioned the Rev. L. M. Hensell, of Virginia, at his own request, to proceed to Kansas, and to co-operate with Mr. Shoemaker in cultivating the field, which seemed to be whitening for the harvest. Mr. Hensell, when last heard from, was at Tola, examining the ground with the view of locating himself and commencing his missionary work. Mr. Shoemaker found that his sup- part was inadequate, and it was to some extent supplemented by mis- sionary boxes and gifts of money last winter from the friends of mis- sions in the East. Similar help will be needed to sustain both of our missionaries in Kansas, and the one in Nebraska, during the coming winter^ Unless something of this kind is done, we fear that they will be driven from the field. As the Board has commenced missionary operations in these two States, it will be necessary for the Church to sustain the missionaries in their self-denying work, or else all that we have been doing thus far will come to nought. Appropriation to Mr. Shoemaker, $300. For travelling expenses, $100. Appropriation to Mr. Hensell, $300. NEBRASKA. m Aurora. — Last spring the Rev. Edmond Erb was commissioned as missionary, to Nebraska at his own request He was to some extent acquainted with the field, and felt himself strongly moved to give up his- charge in Ohio, in order that he might supply the membership of the church in Nebraska, scattered about as sheep without a shepherd, with the means of grace, and gather them together into congregations. The Board were pleased to accept of his offer to labor in the waste places of our Zion in the Far West. He has now been several months in the field, and most of his time has been occupied in making explorations. He reports that he finds members of the Reformed Church in many places, some of whom have left the church of their fathers, whilst many were still waiting for a minister of their own faith to preach to them the gos- pel. He has located himself at Aurora, and made it the centre of his missionary operations. He preaches at present in the court-house in the town, and at several school-houses in the country, where he expects soon to organize congregations. His work commends itself to the sympathy and prayers of the church. Appropriation $300. Pastor, Edmond Erb. CALIFORNIA. Salem's Church, Napa. — The spiritual interests of this mission suf- ered much from the want of a pastor during the previous year. When 38 the present missionary took charge of it, about one year ago, very few members seemed to be left — apparently only two. He has, however, succeeded in gathering together the scattered sheep, and the condi- tion of the mission has improved under his care. Members, 67. Baptisms, 8. Gathered in, 65. Benevolence, $13. Local objects, $330. Cost of property, $4,000. Indebtedness, $500. Reduction of indebtedness during the year, $50. Under the care of the Board eight years. Indif- ference to the claims of missions, on the part of many of the foreign Germans, presents many difficulties in the way of the mission, but faith- ful labor among them is sure to bear good fruit. The field is large, and more laborers are needed to assist in cultivating it as it should be. Appropriation, $300. Pastor, E. DeGeller. Alameda. — The Rev. Charles Hartman, of Indiana, having expressed a desire to labor among the foreign Germans in California, was com- missioned as missionary to Alameda last spring. He took charge of the mission that had been served for a time by one who turned out to be unworthy of his office. He found many of His countrymen who needed the gospel, but manifested little or no interest in having it preached to them. They had, in some degree, lost confidence in min- isters, as well as in Christianity itself. This made the beginning of his work somewhat inauspicious, but he has not become discouraged. He preaches at present in a rented hall, and has succeeded in gathering the children together into a Sunday-school, which is growing, and pro- mises well for the future. The beginning seems to be feeble, and the work arduous ; but we have the assurance that brother Hartman's labors for the souls of men will not be in vain in the end. He is well qualified for the work which he has undertaken, and is much needed to assist the brethren already in the field in planting the pure Christian faith in the place of Satan's synagogue. Appropriation, $400. Pastor, C. Hartman. OREGON. Portland. — Membership, 172; no at Portland, 13 at Sandy, organized into a congregation during the year. 50 at German Creek and the Dalles, aiso lately organized. Two Sunday-schools, with ninety scholars. Something over ^1,000 were raised for congregational purposes, such as salary, sexton, fuel, and the debt of ^365 mentioned in last year's report. $70 were raised in the congregation for the completion of a new church in Rev. Lange's charge. The missionary has spent much time in exploring the country and in organizing new churches, and it has become necessary to send other laborers into the field to assist him in his work. Accordingly two new missionaries were commissioned by the Board at its late meeting, to labor in Oregon, in fields to be assigned to them by the Classis of Portland. They came from the Pilger-Mission of St. Chrischona, at Basel, Switzerland, and are highly recommended for the work by Inspector Rappard. Their names are A. Kreuter and F. Ewald. Pastor Gantenbein says that, in addition to the points which he has been trying to hold until relief should come, there are yet a dozen prominent cities and German settlements of great promise to our church on the north Pacific coast, as yet untouched by us, which we should take possession of soon, before it is too late. Appropriation, last year, $250. Pastor, John Gantenbein. Salem. — The annual report of this mission has failed to reach us, and so we cannot give statistics. The missionary serves two small congre- gations of Germans, one at Salem, the capital of the State, which is still • 39 without a church, and the other at Waldo Hills, which completed its church during the year for something over $500. He preaches at other points, in school-houses and private houses. Latterly he has been preaching regularly at Mehannah, a summer resort, which in the course of time might be made the centre of a new missionary field. He con- tinues to explore the country, to visit from house to house, and to en- courage his fellow-countrymen to wait in faith until Providence sends them a shepherd to gather them into the folds of their own church. Appropriation, last year, $250; this year, ;j2oo. Pastor, Jacob Muell- haupt. Ca?iby, Clackamas Co. — Under the Board 2^( years. Congregations, 3. Members, 70. Additions, 47. Gain, 43. Baptisms, 5. S. S. scholars, 39. Local objects, $400. During the past year the pastor. Rev. Julius Lange, organized two new congregations, one at Oregon City, and the other at New Era, seven miles distant. The first, the St. Peter's Church, owns three acres of land, on which there is a parsonage, which serves at present as a house of worship. The second, the St. John's Church, has taken measures to put up a new church for its use. An eligible piece of ground has been donated for the purpose, and subscriptions in money, labor and material secured. As the people are mostly beginners, and still poor, the Board, in accordance with the request of the Portland Classis, has contributed $50 to encourage and assist in this movement. The small church erected by the congregation at Meridian, referred to in last year's report, has been finished, and is now paid for. It is worth $650 at present, and in a short time it will be worth considerably more. Brother Lange, owing to fewness of laborers in the field, has preached at various other points within the bounds of the Classis. His health, which had somewhat suffered in consequence of his arduous labors, has, we are glad to report, been restored to him. Appropriation, last year, |200 ; this year the same. Pastor, Julius Lange. WASHINGTON TERRITORY. Walla Walla. — This mission was supplied for some time by Rev. George Maechtersheimer. During the past year, by the advice of his Classis, he was induced to transfer his labors to another place in the Territory. The field is still vacant, and, as it is an important one, efforts will be made to supply it with a suitable missionary, it is hoped, at an early day. Appropriation last year, $200, Vacant. Seattle, Puget Sound. — By the advice of the Portland Classis, Mr. Maechtersheimer was commissioned to labor as missionary at this point. He was well received by his fellow-countrymen, and his prospects of success in this field are encouraging. Appropriation, $200. Pastor, George Maechtersheimer, Ursinus Union. — The Rev. F. W. Kremer, D. D., Treasurer of the Church and Committee of the Ursinus Union, reports that since the last annual meeting of Syiiod he has received for missionary purposes, $760.49. Three hundred dollars of this amount has passed through the hands of our Treasurer for the support of a mission under the care of the Board. The balance has been paid into the Treasuries of other missionary boards of the church. SUMMARY. Number of missions 45 Members in the missions 4.159 Baptisms during the year 470 40 Additions during the 3'ear 588 Sunday-school scholars 3,406 Amount collected for benevolence $932 " " local objects $18,929 Cost of property $164,000 Indebtedness $27,450 FINANCIAL STATEMENT. From the treasurer's report it will appear that the income of the Board during the year, from all sources, was $12,220.85. '^o this, however, must be added over $1,000, received by the treasurer for the Washing- ton Chapel, not included in the income as given above. The amount then would be $13,294. Last year the income was $15,403, which was larger than usual, because many of the contributions came in the form of thank-offerings for the return of peace and reconciliation in the church — supposed to be $5,000. The difterence between the receipts of the two years is less than was anticipated, and the income during the past year was larger than during any previous ordinary year. There was due our missionaries in salary, on the first of October, 14,000, with a balance in the treasury of $1,240. The follov/ing statement of the income of the Board for missions in former years — since i860 — may be interesting and instructive at the present time : Income from i860 to 1865 — five years $28,538 " " 1865 to 1869, from the whole church, all the Synodic 42,487 " " 1869 to 1873, from all the Synods 19,616 " " 1873 to 1877, from three Synods, on the tri-Synodic plan 36,315 " " 1877 to 188 1, on the tri-Synodic plan cont'd 46,019 For the coming year the Board will need $15,000 at least — more if possible — in order to meet current expenses ; for which we suggest that the three Synods interested be requested to adopt measures to raise the following amounts : The Synod of the United States $8,500 The Synod of the Potomac 3750 The Synod of Pittsburgh 2,750 RECOMMENDATIONS. That the Synods request each congregation within their bounds, to take up one collection during the year, for the purpose of creating a Church Building Fund, to assist missions to erect churches, either in the way of a loan or a donation. That the Synods request all the ministers and pastoral charges to be more careful hereafter, that the assessments made for missions be more fully met. That missionary festivals be held in each Classis, and in the different congregations ; that missionary societies be organized and encouraged in each congregation or Sunday School ; that missionary intelligence be diffused in all our churches, and our people be urged to give more liber- ally, so that our missionaries may be more promptly paid and encour- aged in their work. 41 A RETROSPECT. As the period for which the Superintendent of Missions was appoint- ed by the three Synods, conjointly, comes to a close during the present year, it is proper at this time to make a brief review of our missionary work during the period of time he has been in office. It is a matter ot encouragement to the Church that the cause of missions has been pros- pered, and that it has not been without manifest tokens of the divine favor. Most of the missions reported four years ago, are still under the care of the Board. Only a few of them have become self-sustaining. Others, to a greater or less extent, are approaching to the point when they will be able to provide for themselves. The most marked feature of our missionary work during that period of time is found in its enlargement or expansion. Following, what were deemed clear indica- tions of Divine Providence, the Board established a number of new and interesting missions. The mission at Johnstown, from an humble and inauspicious beginning, has grown up and is making cheering pro- gress, having secured for itself a church of its own, not encumbered with any remaining debt. Other missions have been established within the bounds of the Pittsburgh Synod — at Latrobe, New Castle, and more recently at other points, which, however, have not as yet, been supplied with missionary pastors. St. Luke's mission, at Lancaster, Pa., which grew out of a Mission Sunday-School, was commenced in 1879, ^'^'^ ^'^•^^ been successful in erecting for itself a new Church, with no large amount of indebtedness resting on it. The present missionary at Emporia, Kansas, was commissioned in the year 1879. ^^ organized the flock, which had been gathered together by his predecessor, into a congrega- tion, and has been successful in putting up a neat church for its use, whilst he has explored different parts of the State, and visited various places where members of the Reformed Church have settled. Quite re- cently the Board has sent out another missionary to co-operate with him in building up the waste places of our Zion in that State. Last spring a mis- sionary was commissioned to the neighboring State of Nebraska, where he finds many members of our church, among whom he proposes to build up missionary churches. The Mission in San Francisco became self-supporting some three years ago, and it soon became necessary for the Board to commission another laborer to assist in carrying forward the work of missions among the Foreign Germans in San Francisco and suburbs. Four years ago we had only two missionaries in Oregon and Washington territory ; now we have four, and we will have six, as soon as two, from the Missionary Institute of St. Chrischona, Basel, now in this county, shall have reached their field of labor. The first mis- sion in Oregon was started about six years ago at Portland It is now nearly or quite self-supporting — a source of encouragement and hope to other mis^ons growing up around it. The increase of laborers on the Pacific Coast led to the formation of two Classes instead of one. The Mission of Middlebrook, Va., has become self-supporting, and a new one established in the neighborhood. In North Carolina, three new missions have commenced within the past year, which it is hoped will assist in reviving and strengthening our Church in the South. But whilst we have endeavored to provide for the spiritual wants o our people in the West and the South, and in smaller towns and villages in the P2ast, we have not overlooked the destitution of our larger cities. Over one year ago we undertook to assist the eastern German I3oard in 42 sustaining a German mission in the city of New York ; have lately- commenced a promising English mission in Philadelphia, and are just about adopting measures to establish one in the city of Baltimore. It is only the want of means that has prevented us from having an English mission in the city of Boston, and extending our work among the foreign Germans in New England. The mission in Washington, D. C., is now in its fourth year, and has encouraging prospects of permanence and suc- cess. All this shows, that, limited as our resources are, we can, with prudence and care, extend our work also into our large cities, and build up churches for our people, who are continually flowing into them from the country. As system and order are necessary in carrying forward the work of mis- sions — just as much as in any other enterprise — it has been a primary object with the Board to encourage and foster missionary societies in our congregations and Sunday-schools. During the last four years many of these have sprung up in all directions, and have proved themselves to be a blessing to the churches, as well as perennial sources of increase to our missionary treasury. To supply these societies with missionary intelli- gence, as well as to awaken still more the missionary spirit among our peo- ple, a monthly missionary paper has been published under the direction of the Board, which, if properly encouraged, cannot fail, as we believe, to be- come one of the most potent agents in advancing our missionary interests. From this brief review, as well as from what has appeared in our re- ports from year to year, it will appear that the cause of missions is ad- vancing — making some progress among us. As a consequence, our peo- ple are becoming more interested in this department of benevolence, and their liberality is improving. During the last four years the entire amount raised for missions, as reported regularly through our treasurer was in round numbers $46,000. The amount actually contributed, but not so reported, was considerable. It would be difficult to give the precise amount. During the previous four years the amount reported was $36,- 000, showing an increase of $10,000 during the second term of what has come to be known as the Tri-Synodic Plan. But whilst these lacts go to show that the Reformed Church in the East has made a good beginning in its missionary enterprises, it should, however, be remembered that it is only a beginning. Our increasing liberality has fallen far short of the providential openings, which God is making to us, and most manifestly inviting us to enter and cultivate. As a denomination we have the means — and we hope the heart also — of doing much more for our Divine Lord, who has done so much for us. We have, in fact, great reason to humble ourselves in the dust and to hide our faces in shame when we call to mind what we might do, and listen to the urgent calls that are made upon us for help in the many waste places of our country. It is a cause in which we can no longer stand still or be indifferent, without being guilty of the commission of a great sin, and of the perpetration of a great wrong upon tl*ose who call to us for help in their time of need. It is becoming more and more a matter that should cause ministers and members to fear and tremble, lest God should withdraw altogether the light of His countenance. Upon us, therefore, ministers of the gospel, the shepherds of the flocks, com- mitted to our care, more especially, lies a solemn responsibility to cry aloud and spare not, until our Reformed Zion awakes from her slumbers, and puts on her strength and her beautiful garments. Respectfully submitted, THEODORE APPEL, Superintejident of Afissions. Lancaster, Pa., Oct. 4, 1881. 43 III. REPORT OF THE TREASURER OF THE TRI-SYNODIC BOARD OF MISSIONS. The following report was received from the Treasurer of the Board of Missions : — To the Board of Missions of the Reformed Church in the United Slates. I regret to announce to the Board, and througli It to tlie Synods and the Churcli at hu-jre, that tlie finances are not in as promising a condition as at the date of my last annual report. The contributions have fallen off very seriously during the year, being more than twentv-four hundred dollars less than during the previous year. Some of the Classes have, it is gratifying to state, increased their contribu- tions very handsomely, but others, alas, have come far behind. The present indebtedness of the Board to the missionaries is nearly $4,000, towards paying which there is in the treasury a balance of $1,230.97, leaving an actual indebtedness of more than $2,700. Unless the Church manifests more liberality during tlie present year, the number of missions must be reduced and the salaries of the missionaries cut down. Such a step is painful to contemplate, and it is earnestly hoped may be averted by God's people increasing their offerings so that His reign may be extended and His kingdom come. The following statement exhibits the sources and amounts contributed for Missions, viz : Synod of the United States. Classis of Philadelphia $ 116 00 Tohick(m 689 28 " Goslienhoppen 1536 75 " East Pennsylvania 809 45 Lebanon 1529 61 " Lancaster 761 45 " East Susquehanna 353 00 " West Pennsylvania 662 20 " Lehigh . ." 473 74 Total from the Synod of the United States $ 6,931 48 Synod of the Potomac. Classis of Zion § 387 15 Maryland 910 12 '• Mercersburg 1006 25 " Virginia 170 95 " San Francisco 15 00 " North Carolina 72 41 Total from the Synod of the Potomac . . $ 2,561 88 ; Synod of Pittsburg. From the Treasurer of Synod $ 2,062 49 11,555 85 Miscellaneous Sources. From Locke legacy (principal) .... $ 500 00 " " " (interest) . '' Adelaide Dechant legacy . " Gcrhart legacy Balance in Treasury Oct. 11, 1880 Total from all sources 13,184 71 135 00 24 00 6 00 963 86 $ 1,628 86 44 Disbursements. Paid orders of the Board during year $11,568 74 Paid Treasurer Iowa Classis 35 00 Paid Treasurer Iowa Classis per Trea- surer Pittsburgh Synod . . . 350 GO Balance in the Treasury Oct. 3, 1881 1,230 97 13,184 71 Respectfully submitted, Wm. H. Seibert, Treasurer. Harrishurg, Pa., Oct. 3, 1881. We, the undersigned, a committee appointed by the Board of Missions of the Reformed Church for that purpose, beg leave to report that we liave ex- amined the Treasurer's Report with the accompanying voucliers, and find it to be correct, with a balance of I?l,230.97 in the Treasury'. Witness our hands this 3d day of October, 1881. W. H. H. Snyder, •) ^ D. W. Gross, | Committee. IV. REPORT OF STANDING COMMITTEE ON MISSIONS. Your Committee on Missions beg leave to ofier the following as their report : There have been referred to us for consideration the Reports of the Tri- Synodic Board of Mis-sions, of the Superintendent of Missions, of tiie Treasurer of the Tri-Synodic Board of Missions, and an overture from Iowa Classis, ask- ing for a special appropriation for missions within its bounds. In the reports from the Tri-Synodic Board and its officers we find the fol lowing matters requiring action on the part of this Synod, namely: A request that $3750.00 be furnished by tliis Synod for Missions, during the ensuing year ; and also certain recommendations respecting collections for a Building Fund, Missionary Festivals, and Missionary Societies. With regard to these things we would recommend the following action : Besolved, That tliis Synod assume the $3750.00, suggested by the Board, as our portion of the !?15,600.00 needed to carry forward the work now in hand, and that it be apportioned as follows: Zion's Classis $1150.00, Maryland Classis $1150.00, Mercersburg Classis $1100.00, Virginia Classis $300.00, North Carolina Classis $150.00. San Francisco Classis $25.00, and Portland -Oregon Classis $25.00 -making $3900.00. Besolved, That the Classes of this Synod be urgently enjoined to make every proper effort to meet their respective apportionments. Resolved, That the Classes of this Synod be instructed to enjoin upon their pastors to take up, during the ensuing year, at such time as may be most suitable, in each congregation a collection for a Church-Building Fund. Besolved, That the Classes of this Synod be also recommended to hold Mis- sionary Festivals within their re-pective bounds, during each year, and to take such further action as will lead to the organization of Missionary Societies in all their congregations. As regards the overture of Iowa Classis, we would suggest the following t^tion : Resolved, That Iowa Classis be requested to place its missions so far, at least, under the Tri-Synodic Board, as to report annually their condition and the amounts contributed for their support, to said Board. Besolved, That the sum of $450.00 be raised by this Synod for missions within the bounds of Iowa Classis, and that this amount be apportioned as follows: Zion's Classis $1.50.00. Maryland Classis $150.00, Mercersburg Classis $130.00, Virginia Classis $10.00, and North Carolina Classis $10.00— said amounts to be paid over by the Classes to the Treasurer of the Tri-Synodic 45 Bi)arcl, to be forwarded by him to the Iowa Classis, when said Classis has com- plied witli the request in the foregoing resohition. Resolved, That the Corresponding Secretary of this body be instructed to inform I«wa Classis of this action. Your Committee would further report, that by instructions of Synod arrangements were made for a ^lissionary meeting, during tlie sessions of this Synod. This meeting was held on the evening of the second day of its ses- sions. Rev. Dr. Miller presided over the meeting, and suitable addresses were delivered by Revs. J. M. Titzel, Dr. T. Appel, and W. Rupp. A collection was also taken up for missionary purposes in the field of Rev. Julius Lange in Oregon, which amounted to $50.00, including a supplemental collection on Sunday evening. Respectfully submitted, J. M. TiTZEL, Chairman. The Treasurer of the Tri-Synodic Board acknowledges the recej:)- tion, during the year, of the following sums for the Washington Mission Chapel, to wit: Lebanon Classis $148.10, Lancaster Classis $134.67, West Susquehanna Classis $99.00, Lehigh Classis $66.00, Goshenhoppen Classis $50.00 == $497.77 ; Mercersburg Classis $551.31, Zion's Classis $105.40, North Carolina Classis $25.00, Virginia Classis $18.00 = $699.71 ; miscellaneous sources $32.40. Total $1229.86. At the election for members of the differKit Boards, held during the session of Monday evening, Rev. Dr. Theodore Appel was elected as Synod's choice for Missionary Superintendent for the period of four years, and Revs. J, M. Titzel and Dr. Weisz were elected as members of the Synodic Board of Missions for a like term of years. MEMBERS OF THE SYNODIC BOARD OF MISSIONS AND. TERMS OF SERVICE, Rev. J. M. Titzel .... 4 years October, 1885 I. S. Weisz 4 " " 1885 E. R. Eschbach . . . 3 " " 1884 E. N. Kremer . . . 3 " " 1884 G. W. Welker . . . 2 " " 18S3 J. O. Miller .... 1 " " 1882 Elder S. Dutrow 1 " " 1882 ARTICLE XV. FINANCE. . I. treasurer's report. The Annual Report of the Treasurer of Synod was presented and read, and then referred to the Standing Committee on Finance, for the purpose of being audited. The Report is as follows : 46 Lewis H. Steiner, Tnofiurer, in account with, the Synod of the Potomac of the Reformed Church in the United States. Dr. Oct. 21, 1880. To balance in the Treasury $281 13 '* " " To amount of cash and subscriptions collected at Synod for Missions 58 88 Jan. 12, 1881. To cash from C. A. Schultz, Treasurer Zion's (Jlassis, on assessment of said Classis for 1879-80 100 00 Feb. 25, 1881. To cash from ditto, being balance on said assess- ment with interest 64 72 May 6, 1881. To cash from Rev. W. M. Deatrick, Treasurer Mercersburg Classis, being assessment on said Classis for 1880-81 160 00 " 12, 1881. To cash from Eev. S. S. Miller, Treasurer Mary- land Classis, being assessment on said Classis for 1880-81 . . 160 00 July 22, 1881. To cash from Rev. T. Long, Treasurer North Carolina Classis, being assessment on said Classis for 1880-81 25 00 Aug. 1, 1881. To cash from C. A. Shultz, Treas. Zion's Classis, being assessment on said Classis for 1880-81 160 00 " 9, 1881. To cash from Rev. J. A. Hoffheins, Treasurer Virginia Classis, being assessment on said Classis for 1880-81 40 00 11049 73 Contra Cr. Oct. 21, 1880. By cash to Eev. A. J. Whitmore for Mint Springs Mission, being Synomcal collection 58 88 Dec. 16, 1880. By cash to Rev. W. M. Deatrick, Treas. Board of Education, — one year's interest on Stoudenour legacy . . ^ 12 00 Jan 12, 1881. By cash to Lewis Markell on loan made to Synod for Publication Board 100 00 " 24, 1881. By cash to Ref. Ch. Publication Board for printing 2000 copies of Minutes of Synod for 1880 135 00 April 2, 1881. By cash to Rev. G. E. Addaras, Pastor of Church- town Church, one year's interest on Brechbill legacy .... 12 00 May 2, 1881. By cash to W. D. Gross, Treas. General Synod, — assessment for Contingent Fund 260 00 " 6, 1881. By cash to Rev. W. M. Deatrick, Stated Clerk's salary 100 00 " " 1881. By cash to Rev. W. M. Deatrick, Stated Clerk's expenses 13 00 " 12, 1881. By cash to Louis Markell, on loan 133 85 Aug. 1, 1881. By Cash to Louis Markell in full payment of balance on loan and interest 74 16 Oct. 19, 1881. By balance in Treasury 160 84 $1049 73 Liabilities of Synod. Stoudenour Bequest to Board of Education, with interest from December 15, 1880 200 00 Brechbill Bequest to Churchtown Pastor, with interest from April 2, 1881 200 00 $400 00 Respectfully submitted, Lewis H. Steiner, Treasurer. 47 II. REPORT OP COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. The Standing Committee on Finance submitted their report, during the session of Tuesday forenoon, which was received and adopted, and is as follows : To the Reverend Synod of the Potomac : Your Conimittee on Finance report, tliat they examined the Treasurer's Report and found it correct, with a balance of !?150.84 in the Treasury. To meet the contingent expenses of the Synod, and liabilities assumed by the Synod, at this meeting, your Committee suggest the following assessment for contingent expenses, assessment of the General Synod, and pledge to Mer- cersburg College : Zion s Classis, Maryland Classis, and Mercersburg Classis, each, ?275.00 ; Virginia Classis, $50.00; and North Carolina Classis, !r30. 00. Making §905.00. To meet the deficiency in the Theological Seminary at Lancaster and the note of Mrs. N. Fisher, deceased, your Committee recommend the following assessments : Zion's Classis, Maryland Classis, and Mercersburg Classis, each, $325.00; Virginia Classis, $75.00; and North Carolina Classis, $50. Making $1100. Kespectfully submitted, A. J. Heller, Chairman. In the absence of any report from the Board of Trustees of Synod, Rev. M. H. Sangree, agent of said Board to collect the balance due on loan effected by the Board by order of the Synod several years ago, submitted the following report to the Synod, which was received and adopted, to wit: To the Reverend Synod of the Potomac : As agent of the Board of Trustees, appointed by your body at the Synod of Winchester, A. D. 1875, for the securenient of the Two Thousand Dollar Loan for the relief of the Reformed Church Publication Board, the under- signed would report, that he has been unable to make any collections within the past year, but hopes to be able to pay over to the Synod one hundred dol- lars within the current year. Respectfully submitted, M. H. Sangree, Agent. At the election for members of the several Boards of Synod, Elder J. Taylor Motter was elected a member of the Board of Trustees of Synod for the term of five years. MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND TERMS OF SERVICE. ; Elder J. Tavlor Motter Rev. J. T. R'ossitter . . Elder Louis Markel . " H. Wirt Shriver Rev. W. R. H. Deatrich . years . 4 '' . 3 " . 2 " •1 " . January 1, 1887 . January 1, 1886 . January 1, 1885 . January 1, 1884 . January 1, 1883, [ARTICLE XVI. 'appeals and references. Nothing occurred^under this head. 48 ARTICLE XVir. COMPLAINTS. The Standing Committee on Minutes of Classes, under item 9, reported a complaint to Synod by the Rev. A. Wanner, against the action of Zion's Chissis in divitling his pastoral charge. The Standing Committee on Overtures, under items 2 and 7, report overtures to Synod on the same subject. The matter was referred to a special committee consisting of Revs. J. S IviefFer, J. M. Titzel, Dr. Staley, and Elders W. Dice and E. VVilliard, to ex- amine whether or not the Complaint be in order, and if found in order, report an order of trial. The Committee reported, on Monday evening, as follows, which was received and adopted, to wit : The Comnuttee to whom was referred the Comphiint of Rev. A. Wanner against certain action of Zion's Chassis, would respectfully report, that having examined the papers placed in their hands relating to saiooooococooocoooo ^HMCOOOOOOOOO •djtij ABoag •Aajsiuij\[ joj •pn:)g ■s.iqoS'S'S « s b- -^ « ^ ji: >-( ^vr . t~ u -^ c/j r^ Ol^l ■ c g >-i >-i ;>, ; -? o ^ ^ ji . ' ^ -3 L- U t- I ^ o o o o , ; o o c^ O ' 3 > bt U l-H = c H 3 0. = ^ "^ 3 "d ^-<^ '-^ -f^ -5 i2 g --■~ a t* ? . o o o o c O «1 o o ■^ 2 - - ■. jp03i.a^jjO.^ C5 c; ^ o <=) o oi^ a a'^ :5 •- ;= ^ o ■ — O <3 O o O > h ^ a Tl O -) Ch ^ < ^ 'C u 'r^ c B 3 s ^ X! 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"So •i> ~ — ^ .2 ^►^►^l ci.ii a nJ S3 — 1 2^ 5' a = ■= a o •- i-'ft -Qii .a ^c "' £, " i-* o jr u — ■^•^ .2 r~ ^ ^ > -^ ia ,4) ^ sq 3 .r ^ g ' ~- '"* '^ I— ; u- - 3 C C u J^ — : Hj «■<;-< Ph W I O *> fc_- . . M. " CO S "•- • 2- ."^ -^ si 9 -J h^ p Hi pq -i; m Js • « a S;, I- V a« 1^ = c-^ •:= « t/, a i-i i_ iSS^jpp: > tf 62 ft -^ w o lb O E^ O Cavetown, Washington Co., Md. Knoxville, Frederick do Frederick, do do Clearspring, Washington do Boonsboro, do do Hagerstown, do do Burkittsville, Frederick do Taneytown, Carroll ' do 208 N. Calvert St., Balto., do Jefferson, Frederick do Mechanicstown, Frederick do Middletown, do do Keedy.'Tille, Washington do Westminster, Carroll do Mt. Pleasant, Fred., do Manchester, Carroll do Hagerstown, Washingt'n, do 278 W. Lexington St., Balto., do Baltimore, do Walkersville, Frederick do Washington, D. C. do Eramittsburg, Frederick do Baltimore, do MiddUtown, Frederick do Frederick City, do Emmiiti-burg, do Harrisburg, Pa. 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Welker, Jeremiah Ingold. Thomas Long, Jesse W. Cecil, John Ingle, Jacob C. Clapp, M. L. Hedrick, John A. Foil, • Robt. F. Crooks Peter M, Trexler, G. Dickie Gurley, Paul Barringer, M O H 2 -° 66 H o m o O O No. 29 EleTenth St., San Francis'. Stockton, California. Napa City, do Alameda, West End, California. a .2 "3 '^ c o o 1 •s,dinj [.SUOQ $2930 00 800 00 500 00 o o o CO •Sjdinj •Aanag $ 140 00 23 00 12 00 o o ■pnjg -uiH 1 ^ 1 '^ •sjq»g-S"S t~ O 1-1 CO CO CO CO •siooqog .g 1 '^^ -- '^ 1 ''^ O OS OJ 1 00 •sainsBaa | ^ "^ ■" IS •niooxa 1 1 •passirosiQ ■ <0 M CO OS •siooqog •g j ^ •sqiVBQ 50 •saansisajj lO lO ■* 2: •mooxg •passitnsid c^ 94 -lunuiraoo •BlBOtmiSO ^^- O CO -* M -3< <= •patuaguoo ■fll M ■* g ci snnpv •s^jni CO l:^ lO CO T-l oo •p.aguooafi O lO O 1— 1 to -# 00 CO CO CO •sioqra8j\[ 1:~ CO O O O lO t- CO CO CO 05 S M, 3 fc 3W O'^ „g ^-c c-3 3 . £ ra i-a *-) <-i O < f^ 67 ^ +3 CI ^ <1 ?^ ;^ ^ % U ^ -o w CO 11 OT M o o O O M « 'O o o -^ O CO O CO o ^ -ii t- e<5 "5 cc o o CO CI 00 t— -^ t^ y; -rf C» CO 0> M .-1 «C O CO -" o OO "O CO t^ Ci «c o — e-1 c» OO ^ — C* CO •O CO OJ — CO i-i 1— I ^- «0 CO u-1 »o CO o> CO '^ *0 Ci CO CO .— t •sjooqog I ^Bpung ■-1 t~ «:~ -T OO -"J" -* oa •^ o i-H i-i C^ lO CO o -^ O M M t- '~ CO t- o t- CO o*!?^ ■*"«>; Co' •<1< 1— I 1— I ■^ >o o CO e^ i-l CO o o •<* O M M <-< sqi-BBQ ~f ^ r- — — JO sajns'BjQ CO CO CO »-■ ■-' -innniaiooxji •passimgid •paunninioQ «-- CO 05 t— I ^ M O CO CI CO •o to M e^ . lO O r- 1— 1 e^j CO iM M 1-1 <= O M r-l h- Oi O 1— ( Cs '^ CO crToo oTt^ •3?T!OgijJao c3 05 o c CO e^ o C^ 0> *0 CO l-H -^ r^ CO -)< CO o •paoijguoo •siinpv CO e^i »~ (^^ (N •S^UBJUI CO Tt CO r-( r-l M C33 -J OS M I I— c 1^ 05 lO CO *— * 'I—' CO O CO 00 t- panijguoonri •sjaquiajij ^- CO O CO C-l CO CO O 1^ O C^l IM --^ l-H r-- CO 'O G5 -— CO CO OO C^ i^ (M 1^ lO CO OS CO -H c^ ,^ ^ ^^ "5 CO t~ r- CO ■* CO cTco" CO cTe^ O CO OS iO CO OS — CO 00 *o I— CO ^- O -H CS •— ■»i< r-TOS CC C^ C^ I— I ■saoij'eSajSuoo 'SJ3)SIUII\[ CO CO CO >o M CO M CO ^ 1-1 ■* CO M 1— °* — So «^ J ^ "1 « cc e g ?P o 60 — %, ^ a •r«'t: 3 ■— fc^ ta-i ••" .^ OS '^ 'c '- O 3 o 5 t^ O^ m-n CO • • w. <« t^ ^ o o o o o H 13 "3 "O xJ 2 O O O o 9 fl C3 c B L. a CCM CO CO O O INDEX. Absence, Report of Committee on leave of. 58 Adjournment 60 Advisor3' Members 4 Classe.«, Report of Committee on Minutes of. 11 Classis of Carlisle formed 50 " Gettysburg formed 50 Communications received (J Complaint of Rev. A.|Wanner 48 Contingent Expenses of Synod, Assessment of 47 Education, Report of Board of 17 " Report of Committee on 23 Election of Officers of Synod 5 Examination, Licensure and Ordination, Report of Committee on 13 Finance, Report of Committee on 47 Hymn-Book with Music, Report of Committee on 55 Members of Synod in attendance 3 Mercersburg College, Report of Board of Regents of. 25 " " Action of Synod in reference to 27 Ministerial Necrology, Report of Committee on 59 Minutes of Classes, Report of Committee on 11 " Synod, Report of Committee on 8 " " " Stated Clerk on Publishing 51 " " Publication of ordered 61 Minutes of General Synod, Report of Committee on i) Missions, Report of the Tri-Sy^odic Board of 28 " Report of the Superintendent of 28 " Report of Treasurer of 43 " Report of Committee on 44 Opening of Synod 3 Orphans' Home,'°Report of Committee on Bethany 56 Overtures, Report of Committee on 10 Portland-Oregon Classis, Requests of not granted .57 Publication, Report of Committee on 54 Ratio of Representation, wherever Synod meets as a delegated body 50 Reformed Church Publication Board, Report of. 51 Religion, Report of Committee on State of 14 Religious Services, Report of Committee on 7 Rules of Order, Action on Report of Committee on Revision of 5 Society for Relief of Ministers andWidows of Minister? 56 Speculative Life Insurance, Action in regard to 58 Standing Committees Appointed 5 Statistical Reports 61 " Summary 67 Sunday-School Board, Report of. 48 Thanks, Resolutions of 50 Theological Seminary, Report of Board of Trustees of 21 " " " Board of Visitors of 20 Treasurer of Synod, Annual Report of 45 V/ashingl>n Mission Chapel, Apportionments of urged to be paid speedily 57