m> * JAN 19 1905 DELIVERED IN PORTLAND, IUjYE 25, 1823, BEFORE THE MAINE MISSIONARY SOCIETY . I SIXTEENTH ANNIVERSARY. Bx HARVEY LOOM IS, PASTOR OT A CHURCH IK BANGOR. VALLOWELL : PRINTED BY ^OODALE, GLAZIER fy QQ 1823. M d meeting of the Maine Missionary Society, at Portland, June 25, 1823 ;— Voted, That the Rev. Ekos Merrill, the Rev. Thaddeus PoMERor, and the Rev. Allen Greelt, be a Committe to pre- sent the thanks of this Society, to the Rev. Mr. Loomis, for his Sermon before the Society ; and to request a copy for -publication Attest, B. THURSTON, Record. Sec'y, §m Mark xiv. 8. " She hath done what she could." THIS was a very honorable testimony given by the Saviour, in favor of one, who had performed a certain service for him ; a service, which was peculiarly ac- ceptable, as it was prompted by reverence, gratitude and love. This service was performed by a female disciple. It was Mary, the sister of Lazarus. She had, before this, surrendered her heart to the Saviour, and had " chosen that good part, which," he declared, " should not be taken away from her." He had graciously forgiven her sins, and received her into his favor. And she felt constrained, by the influ- ence of the strongest and most affecting obligations, to do something, to honor and please that heavenly Friend, that blessed Saviour, to whom she felt herself indebted for all her happiness and hopes 5 and whose character, she viewed, as being in itself, supremely excellent and glorious. She must do something to honor and please this Saviour. She resolved to do all that she could. In pursuance of this resolution, she presented an offering, which was « very precious," and was commended by Christ as performing "a good work ,' ? The Circumstances, connected with this transaction, are related in the verses preceding the text. — Christ was in Bethany, and at meat in the house of Simon the leper. And " there came a woman, having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard, very precious ; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head." Such was her " good work ;" such her tribute of Reverence and love. This was a costly offering ; be- ing worth three hundred pence ; which in our curren- cy is a little more than forty-four dollars.* In Eastern countries, it was not an unusual prac- tice, as a tribute of respect and affection to deceased friends or persons of distinction, to embalm their bodies, with some precious ointment ; probably not unlike that used on this occasion by Mary. As Christ was about to be takeu from the worlds Mary performed this work as a testimony of her friend- ship and affection. This was a cheerful offering. The great expense which it incurred, (and considering her probable worldly circumstances, the expense was very great for her ; even exhausting, as we may infer from the language of the text, all he*r pecuniary means,) the ex- pense, I say, did not deter her from the work. Nothing in her view, was too costly — nothing too precious for Christ. But for this benevolent service she was cen- sured. " There were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the oint- ment made ? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor; and they murmured against her." In the gospel ac- cording to John, this objection, is said to have been * 844,40 cents; made by Judas Iscariot. Ami it is also said, that he made it, " not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein." In Matthew, it is said, that the disciples made this objectiou. Jt is probable that the objection was first made by Judas ; who having, at that time, the confi- dence of the other disciples, influenced the minds of some of them to join with him. The enemies of the gospel are always unwilling, that the Saviour should be honored. Many of them affect to believe, and they 'openly avow, that money contributed, as well as other exertions made, to advance the interests of his kingdom, and to confer the bless- ings of his religiou upon the destitute, is a waste — a useless expenditure— au unnecessary and injurious ap- propriation, of the means of charity. Heoce they ob- ject to the efforts of benevolent, engaged christians at the present day ; efforts, made by them, to honor the precious name of Christ, by extending the triumphs of his cross, in the salvation of the millions who are per ishing in their sins. Why is this waste of the ointment made ? Why this waste of the money ? These objections and complaints arise from deep rooted enmity to Christ. It is this enmity, which works upon the native covetousness of man, and pro- duces such violent and painful agitation, whenever any thing is to be done for th« cause of Christ. And this covetousness is never s< powerfully wrought upon and excited, when the expenditure is incurred for any other purpose. Hence the " indignation" that is fell 6 rind expressed, whenever the alledged " waste," hag reference to the interests of Christ's kingdom. But these men would by no means have it supposed, that they are unfriendly to acts of charity. So they substitute some other object ; and as they would have it, some more worthy object, upon which charity should be bestowed ; and they generally, like Judas, bring in the poor. " Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence and given to the poor?" — Why are not the benefactions, presented to Christ for the honor of his name and the salvation of souls, re- served for the poor ? — as though these objectors were indeed so very solicitous for the poor. It is unquestionably a most imperious duty to assist the poor. This is always a duty, and there is always an opportunity of performing it, as we always have the poor with us. But Christ has claims upon his crea- tures ; and there are special seasons, when every pos- sible effort should be made, to honor him by extending the blessings of his religion. And let it be remarked, (hat they who are most disposed thus to honor Christ, are most forward to assist the poor. It may well be presumed, that Mary felt as much, and did as much for the poor, as Judas did. — And I apprehend, that the poor would be most wretchedly provided for indeed, had they no better friends, than they who are influenc- ed to plead their cause, merely from enmity to Christ and his religion. It is as common, as it is easy, to at- tempt to conceal a heart full of covetousness and of opposition to the cause of Christ, under the false pro- fession of a most wonderful concern for the poor. 7 Thus it was with Judas. And he did it, " not thai he cared for the poor." Men of this description, will often, by their pretend- ed, apparent disinterestedness, influence, for a time, the minds of some weak and undecided christians ; and lead them to set up their complaint, in unison with the enemies of religion, and to express their fears, that there will be a " waste" in doing so much for Christ and for souls ; or at least, that in consequence of it, the interests of the poor may not be duly consulted. And when they yield to such influence, and suffer them- selves to be thus led, they act a part utterly at vari- ance with the principles of enlightened, christian be- nevolence ; a part meriting and receiving the severe and unqualified rebuke of the Saviour. Thus it was with some of the disciples, who murmured at this wo- man for pouring the precious ointment upon the head of Christ. "And Jesus said unto them, Let her alone. "W hy trouble ye her ? She hath wrought a good work. For ye have the poor with you always 5 and whenso- ever ye will, ye may do them good ; but me ye have not always. She hath dorte what she could. She hath come beforehand to annoint my body to the bury- ing. Verily, I say unto you, wheresoever this gospel shall be preaclied, throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done, shall be spoken of for a me- morial of her." The Saviour most graciously noticed and commend- ed her service ; and declared that it should be held in everlasting remembrance. How deeply must these disciples have felt the reproof I Well might they hide their faces in confusion, not only for neglecting to do, s themselves, a work which was done by this woman, hut for murmuring that it was done by her. Her love to the Sawour was more ardent, more operative, than theirs. How happy must she have been, not only in performing a deed, which was prompted by affection, but in being assured, that in performing it, she met the gracious approbation of her Saviour. In this effort to. honor Christ, she exerted herself to the extent of her ability. She did what she could. — All this it was incumbent on her to do. Had she done less, she would have neglected duty, and failed to secure the full approbation of the Saviour. I observe therefore, that they who do what they can for Christ, perfovm their reasonable duty, and are sure to meet his approbation. No one, it is perfectly obvious, can perform the par- ticular service, referred to in the text ; or do auy thing for Christ, as directly aud as personally, as in that in- stance. But they may do things, equally important and equally acceptable. Those things are done for him which are done for the promotion of his cause ; and his cause is promoted, by the triumphs of his grace, in the salvation of sinners. I would mention, 1st. What men can do for Christ. And here I would insist, that the first thing to be done by every one, is to become friendly to him, aud attached to the interests of his kingdom ; to submit to his authority and comply with the terms of salvation ; and in this way enter into his service. Having done this, one is prepared to do other things. As it respects particulars, different persons 9 t ah ilo different things. All can do something. God lias so arranged the system, by which his purposes of grace are to be accomplished, that there are many de- partments of service ; and the parts are apportioned and distributed, according to the abilities of different persons. Every christian should ascertain his duty ; and were he to make tikis a matter of prayer, and like Paul put the question, "Lord what wilt thou have me to do," he would be likely to know the kind of service which belongs to him. There are some things which all can do. All can pray, T4iey can repair to a throne of grace, and plead with God for a blessing to descend, both upon their own efforts and the efforts of others. They can plead for the out-pouring of the Spirit ; and for the revival of religion, in their own hearts and in the hearts of all the children of God. They can plead for the conver- sion of sinners, in the societies to which they belong, and throughout the christian world. They can plead for the diffusion and success of the" gospel among the heathen. With pity and benevolence, they will contemplate the six hundred millions of heathen, who are living and dying without the consolations and hopes of the gospel; and they will earnestly plead their cause at the throne of mercy. They will plead for the prosper- ity of Bible and Missionary Societies, and of all those institutions, which have for their object, the conversion of a world lying in wickedness. They will pray the Lord of the harvest to send forth more laborers into his harvest. They will plead with him to repair the waste places : to build the walls of Jerusalem ; to do 10 good iii his good pleasure to Zion. Nor should they keep silence or give him any rest, till he establish and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth. This is one thing, which all the friends of Christ can do. for the promotion of his cause. They can also contribute of their worldly substance. JLU can contribute something. The plea of poverty, is often made* when they, who make it, have actually more ability than Mary had. She felt the claims of justice and gratitude, and there- fore did not, could not make this plea. But there arc those, whose hearts are not sufficiently influenced by these claims to overcome their feelings of covetous- ness. They do not object that other* give. They profess, highly to approve religious objects of char- ity, and are not found among those, who set up the heartless complaint about the poor. No ; they would have the cause of Christ promoted. They would have the light of the gospel sent to the benighted millions of Adam's race. And they will talk largely upon the subject — and even jir ay fervently, in words at least ; but this is all they can do. Their circum- stances will not permit them io give any thing. They must support their families, and pay their debts. This plea is often made ; and made too, by the rich* as well as by the poor. Or at least by those, who indulge their pride, their taste and their ease, to a degree, which does not, by any means, indicate very distress- ing poverty; or a very wakeful solicitude for the claims of their creditors. It is, after all, the plea of covetousness and avarice 5 aa-d is as common as indifference to the gospel., and 11 •• as old as the lust of lucre." It is yourjduty to sup. port your families aud pay your debts ; hut remember, it is your duty also, to honor Christ with a portion of your substance. And think not, that the plea of pov erty and of justice to others, will he admitted as your excuse, in neglecting the cause of Christ, while it is not sufficiently sincere to prevail with you to maintain habits of industry, economy and self-denial. Let there be consistency in your conduct, and we shall believe, there is sincerity in your professions. — There are many, who can do much for Christ and foi souls, by their contributions ; and of this they would be convinced, and the conviction would produce corre- sponding efforts, should they prayerfully ponder upon the subject, and yield to the constraining influence of the love of Christ. But it is acknowledged, that some can do, in this way, but comparatively little. God in his wise providence, has withheld from them the means ; and they are able to contribute only their few mites ; and these they should contribute, as occasions offer. And here 1 would observe, that all who contribute, should regulate, as far as practicable, the time and the amount of their contributions, by a system. It is not sufficient that men occasionally give, and that they give from the impulse of those feelings, which may be ex- cited for the moment, by the appeals, perhaps, of hint who addresses them, and not by the importance of the object to be promoted. They should conscien- tiously and deliberately determine, how much they ought to consecrate to Christ, taking into considera tion the different objects which claim their aid : and resolve to do every thing systematically. Let every church and parish become a charitable society ; or let all the benevolent individuals in the church and parish, form themselves into an associa- tion: and let each member bind himself to give, at stat- ed times, a specified amount, as God shall have pros- pered him ; and in this way, do all that he can. Were all christians to adopt this method, more would be given; — and it would be given more judiciously ; and with feelings more profitable to the donors. These feelings would be formed into a settled principle of benevolence. Giving, would assume more of the form and the features of a regular, necessary business. Were all who love the Lord Jesus Christ to adopt such a system, the gospel would soon be preached to every creature. Were all the christians in this State, to adopt such a system ; were they to do all that they could, the several benevolent institutions amongst us would be amply supported, and the two hundred thousands now destitute of a preached gospel, would soon be furnish- ed with a supply. The Maine Missionary Society would then have a far more widely extended operation. In its capacity, as a Society, considering its means, it has done what it could ; and it has doue much ; much to build the waste places ; much to make the wilderness bud and blossom. And it has high claims upon the public gratitude. Nor is this all ; it has high claims upon the public patronage. While laudable exertions are made by the people of this State, to educate pious young men for the. gos- pel ministry — let not this Society be so neglected, that its means will not be suntcient to give employment 18 to such ministers, as shall offer their services — and as are needed, and would be retained in feeble so- cieties, if the requisite assistance could be afforded. I am satisfied, that greater exertions should be made to educate young men for the ministry ; but I am also satisfied, that unless greater support is given to the Missionary Society, the benefits anticipated from the increase of preachers, will not be realized. Let then the claims of this Society be deeply felt and acknowledged. Let every one contribute for its support. Aud while he does this, let him also con- tribute for the support of other benevolent institutions ; and let him in this way, do all that he can. But there are other ways, in which men can promote the cause of Christ and the salvation of souls, than by contributing of their worldly substance. Such as possess the pecuniary means, and render pecuniary assistance, cannot excuse themselves from ether services ; and such as are destitute of these means, will rejoice, if they love the Saviour, in having the opportunity and the privilege, of promoting ids cause, in some other way, and by the employment of such means as they possess. They who have the time and the talents, can greatly benefit others, by giving them religious instruction. 1 do not uow refer to the public preachers of the gospcL They, it is true, are under the most solemn obligations, to do all that they can in this way — to be instant in season and out of season — in proclaiming the gospel, and in beseeching men in Christ's stead to be recon ciled to God. — I refer to private christians. They can give religious instruction. Many can be employed in 14 leaching the rising generation, the things which con- cern the honor of Christ and the salvation of their sonls. Sabbath Schools furnish an opportunity for those of this description, to present their offering. Whatever be their means in other respects, here they may labor with advantage and acceptance. Though God may have withheld from them the silver and the gold, yet they may in this service, present an offering, equally precious — equally acceptable. Some can promote the cause of Christ, by animat- ing christians in their duty, and exciting them to the more faithful performance of good works ; and es- pecially, by warning sinners of their danger, and per- suading them to espouse the cause of the Redeemer, and secure the salvation of their souls. Will any of you plead as an excuse, that your talents are small? But you can use what talents you have ; and this is all that is required of you. — Will you plead, that you have no influence ? This plea is false. Every chris- tian has influence, in his appropriate sphere ; and can exert it with effect, upon some, at least, of those with whom ho is intimate. You can go to your unconverted neighbors and friends and relatives, and press upon their attention the importance of this cause and the worth of their souls ; and apprize them of their guilt and danger, and beseech them to become reconciled to God. This you can do with earnestness and perseverance, yet with prudence. And you can so deport yourselves, as to convince them that what you say, is a most sol- emn and interesting reality. Every christian; should 15 become, iu effect, a preacher and a missionary ; and use his utmost exertions, as propriety and faithfulness shall dictate, for the. conversion of those, ft hose con- nection with him is such, as to give him influence over them. Were all Christiana to do this ; were they to strive in good earnest, for the conversion of their un- godly associates, connections and friends, there would be, in almost every christian Society, a general enqui- ry — "'What must we do to be saved ?" Sinners, iu great numbers, would be brought into the kingdom of Christ ; and thus his cause would be most effectu- ally promoted. This is what all christians can do ; whether rich or poor ; whether learned or unlearned. And as wo have seen they can also pray ; and contribute of their worldly substance, as God has given them ability. 1 observe, 2. That it is the reasonable duty of men to do what they can for the cause of Christ. This cause, as we have seen, involves the glory of God, and the salvation of precious and immortal souls, Here are interests of unutterable iiqwrtance. Inter- ests, compared with which, every w r orldly coucern sinks into entire worthlessness. These interests will continue to be important, when this miserable world shall be burnt up, and when all earthly scenes shall vanish away. And surely, it is the duty of men to estimate objects by their importance, and to apportion their services accordingly. The cause, which it is oui duty to promote, is infinitely dear to Christ. His heart is coustantly fixed upon it, with the utmost in- tenseness and delight. Its importance is such as jusl iG ly to claim all that creatures can do. A "partial effort, or an effort that is not measured by the full extent of the power which is possessed, leaves the man who makes it, under the guilt of neglecting duty. Christ meas- ures our duty by our ability. The man of wealth may give much ; but if he does not give what he can t he is deficient in duty. It is not the amount of his dona- tion, considered in itself, but its amount, considered in reference to his ability, that determines the extent of his duty. The same principle holds true, in applica- tion to other departments of service. And besides, a man may proceed to the full extent of his ability in one department, and still be guilty, if he neglects to do what he can in other departments. Considering our relation to Christ, our dependence and obligations, no one can deny his claim to all our services. He reasonably requires us to do what we can. He created us for himself. Yea, the world was created by and for him, and it was created and is kept in existence and operation, for the manifest purpose of promoting this cause. It was designed as a theatre, on which there should be exhibited the wonders of his grace. 1 say, he created us ; not only so, but he redeemed us. And this he did by shedding his own blood. It is an affecting consideration that such a price should be paid for our ransom. " We were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ." And is it too much to give him all that we have ; our whole hearts and services ? Here are the claims of gratitude, as well as of justice. These claims should penetrate our Stiuhy and inspire us with love to Christ, and to the per- 47 ishing millions for whom lie died; and call into exer- tion, all the means of which we are possessed. Consideration* like these, influenced Mary to do what she could. They should influence us to go and do likewise. It is our duty to become sincerely attached to his interests, to engage in every benevolent service, which offers itself, and do as much af our means will permit. Whatever objects we select, (and in making the selection, we must regard the station and circum- stances, in which Providence has placed us ;) and in whatever way we contribute to the promotion of such objects ; one thing we must not forget, that it is our duty — our reasonable duty, to do all that we can. This duty is binding on all of Adam's race ; upon all for u hom the Saviour died. And of these, none are under stronger obligations, than females. They should imitate the example of her, who poured the ointment upon the head of Christ. They should do what they can for the promotion of his precious cause. Neither delicacy nor duty forbids them to enter the field of benevolent enterprize. And as it respects the claims of graHtu.de, who shall be influenced to honor < Christ, if not females ? Who so indebted to him and his gospel, as they ? It was one benevolent design of the religion of Jesus, to elevate the female charac- ter; and to secure a multitude of blessings, which were before considered, as belonging exclusively, to the other sex. This design has been accomplished, wherever his religion has prevailed. In all christian countries, how different the condi- tion of females, from what it is among the heathen, or even ainoug the Jews ! How much more highly and justly is their character estimated ! With how muck more respect and tenderness are they treated ! For all this, they are indebted to Christ. They are in- debted fro him, not only for the hopes of salvation, in common with others, but for that exalted rank which they hold in society, and for that kindness and affection from others, to which, it is acknowledged by all, they are entitled. Where the gospel of Christ is not known, females are degraded and wretched.* Under what peculiar obligations then, are they to the Saviour. With what lively gratitude and love should they regard him. How solicitous should they be, to make some suitable returns to him, for all I is Condescension and merciful kindness to them. And in what Way can they do this so effectually, after giv- ing him their hearts, as to impart the blessings of this gospel to others ? There are many who do feel the force of these obligations ; — many who have given him their hearts and their services. There are such among my hearers ; there are many such throughout the State. And to them, the Maine Missionary Society is greatly indebted. The amount of their donations, compared with the donations of others, and compared with their means, if it could be known, would both gratify and 1 surprise those, who have not attentively considered the subject. — An exact record of their deeds of benevo- lence has not been kept upon earth ; but such a re- cord is kept in heaven. And 1 conceive it is proper * What an ungrateful creature then— how ba^e and monstrous— is a fe- male infidel ; a female scoffer and reviler of Christ ; a female opposer of missions 19 on this occasion, to make this particular mention, as & memorial of them ; and for doing it, 1 plead the ex- ample of Christ, as presented to ns in the text. — And I observe further; that among females, Christ has probably a greater number of friends, than among the other sex. Ever since he came into the world, he has found among them many of his most ardent, devoted followers; whose attachment lias been expressed and tested, by services cheerfully reudered, and by sacri- fices cheerfully submitted to. At the time of his crucifixion, none felt a more ten- der solicitude, than his female disciples. Prompted by sorrow, by gratitude and love, they followed him to Calvary ; that they might witness the august and affecting scene of his cruel death ; and this they did, at the time, when his other disciples forsook him and fled. They were the first to visit the sepulchre ; they the first to announce his resurrection. In all subsequent periods, they have been among the foremost, to express their friendship and affection, in those works of benevolence, which are designed to honor the Saviour, and to diffuse the blessings of his religion among the destitute and ignorant. They have been willing to forego many of the blessings of civiliz- ed life, the endearments of home and of their native land, to encounter danger and even death ; that they might glorify his precious name, and make known his grace among the heathen. And this shall be told as a. memorial of them. They have felt it their duty to do what they could. This was their duty ; and, my hearers, it is the duty qf £0 all. No one, whether male or female, whether rich or poor, whether bond or free, can plead an exemption. I observe, 3. That they who thus perform their duty, in doing what they can for Christ, will be sure of meeting his approbation. He did graciously approve of the good work which Mary wrought. He would not suffer it to pass without commendation ; and it was faithfully recorded in his book of remembrance. All who do as she did— who do what they can for Christ, shall be treated by him in like manner. In requiring his rational creatures to do all they can, Christ only requires of them, a reasonable service ; and as he is a reasonable Being, he will assuredly be- stow his approbation upon those, who comply with his requirements. He is gracious as well as reasonable. With aston- ishing, unbounded kindness and love, will he regard those, who attach themselves to his interests, and do what they can, for the glory of his name and the salva- tion of souls. Yes, my hearers, though you do but little, yet if it is all that you can do, you will be ac- cepted and approved. Your offering will be regarded in the same light, as were the poor widow's mites. — " For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted, according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not." If you do what you can in giving your hearts to him, you will receive his free forgiveness — his gracious acceptance. If you do what you can by your prayers, your contributions and other exertions, to adorn and support the gospel among yourselves, and to extend its blessings to the destitute and wretched ; iii a word, if you do what is your most reasonable du- ty, to honor his great name, a ad promote that blessed cause, which is so dear to Ids heart, he will most cer- tainly and most graciously approve your service. — A book of remembrance shall be written, in which he will carefully record your names, and you shall be his, in the day when he maketh up his jewels. Lie has always accepted and rewarded the reasonable service, which has been performed for him. To all who have done what they could ; he has promptly extended his approbation. None of his servants have accused him of being a hard Master. Upon all his devoted fol- lowers who have left the world, he has pronounced the benediction ; " Well done, good and faithful ser- vant, enter ye into the joy of your Lord." My hearers, are there not sufficient inducements to do all that you can for Christ? Who would not de- sire to meet the approbation of his Saviour and Judge? What greater blessedness, than to enjoy an assurance and a consciousness of having his smiles and his com- mendation? What greater enjoyment in this world, than to be engaged in the promotion of that blessed cause, which he loves, and which involves the honor of his name and the salvation of immortal souls? In what should we engage, if not in such a cause as this ? For whom should we live, if not for Christ? — There is, moreover, every encouragemp.it to exertion. Oth- ers, in gi eat numbers, are engaged. We shall have their countenance and co-operation. The cause will prevail. There is the promise of success. The prophecies concerning it, uust be fulfilled. Yes — and they are now r fulfilling with wonderful rapidity. %2 Friends ami followers of lmmamiel, take courage. Animating are the signs of the times. Unexampled efforts, have been made within a few years, to send the word of life to distant, benighted nations. Men have been found, who were willing to become champions of the cross and heralds of the gospel ; and have gone forth, in the strength of Him, who is the Captain of their salvation. 1 hey have planted the Standard of their Redeemer amid hosts of spiritual adversaries ; and waved the banner of the cross over the battle- ments of the enemy. The blessed cause, I say, will triumph. And in its triumph, will be involved, not only the salvation of its friends, but the destruction of its enemies. My hearers, on which side are you engaged ? — For what purpose and to what end do you live ? Compared with this great concern, the prosperity of the Redeemer's kingdom, every other interest, is mere vanity ; and will soon be, as though it had not been. How dreadful to live and die, as though this world were your only home and portion ! How dreadful to live and die, as though there were no Saviour to be served and honored, and no souls to be saved ! How dreadful to take the attitude of opposition, and to hin- der the progress of this precious cause ! Such will at last meet the wrath of the Lamb. " And such as dare despise my name, " I'll clothe them with eternal shame." My hearers, soou the night cometh, when no man can work. Soon we must give an account of our stew- ardship. And what account are we prepared to give ? 23 What have we done for Christ, and lor souls that are 1 perishing? Let each one put the question to himself, Have 1 done what I could? This question will be put, at the great day, to every one, by his own con- science and by his Judge; Hast thou done what thou couldst? How many will this question cover with confusion ! Let me put the question to you now ; Have you done what you could? Some of you have done many things to oppose Christ, and resist the oper- ations of his grace. Many of you have done what you could to establish a righteousness of your own. But have you done what you could to promote the salvation, either of your own souls or the souls of oth- ersj and to reflect honor upon the precious name of Christ? Let me ask those who hope they are the friends of the Saviour ; how much have you done for him, who loved you and icashed you from your sins, in his own blood ? How much have you done for the souls that are as precious as your own, and that are now involv- ed in all that guilt and condemnation, from which sove- reign grace, as you hope, has rescued yours ?— Have you done all that you could? all that gratitude, all that justice required ? Oh how much unfaithfulness, how much neglect of duty ! Nothing short of that blood, which was shed for the remission of sins, can wash away the guilt, even of christians. Look to this blood for pardon, and re- solve to be faithful. Let the love of Christ constrain yon. My impenitent hearers, in this great concern, and *t this remarkable period, what part will you act ? (), 24 which side will you engage ? While God is pouring out his Spirit, and performing his wonders of love and mercy ; while so many are coming over on the Lord's side, and rejoicing in his great salvation ; will you remain under the bondage of sin and death ? Will you not join them, and 9harewith them, their joys and their hopes ? While others are engaged in extending the tri- umphs of the cross, shall the sins and follies of this miserable world absorb your hearts, and shut the doors of heaven against you ? Can you consent to do nothing for the Saviour, and nothhig for your own souls ? I recommend to you this Saviour. It is a blessed truth — u a faithful saying, and worthy of all accepta- tion, that he came into the world to save sinners." Flee to him for refuge. Yes, flee to him, who is the sinner's friend. Submit to his authority, and surren- der to his love. Abandon every other dependence, and, feeling yourselves to be lost and ruined, rely upon the merit and the efficacy of that blood, which was shed upon the cross to redeem you. May we all surrender ourselves to this Saviour ; and love and serve him, while we live. For he is ivorthy. Yes, " Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing," forever and ever^ dMMJf< BX7146.M2A7 1823 A sermon delivered in Portland, June 25, Princeton Theological Seminary-Speer Library 1 1012 00036 1727 DNIMBIV OF THE TRUSTEES OF THE MJLYE MISS10JYJRY SOCIETY, AT PORTLAND, JUNE 25, 1823. The Trustees of the Maine Missionary Society would congrat- ulate their brethren on the return of this anniversary; an occa- sion on which they are permitted to recognize many mercies from the glorious Head of the Church, in the support of this and other kinclred institutions. From what this Society has been enabled to accomplish from year to year ; from the patronage with which it has been favored ; and from the confidence with which it is regarded by the destitute within our borders ; its members have abundant reason to • thank God and take courage.' The Trustees have had in the emplov of the Society, in the ings have constantly increased in number-. In Strong ;ind In dustry, there is not only a considerable degree of seriousness in general, but a few instances of anxious inquiry." While Mi White was performing his missionary servii es, there was a Con ;regational society formed and organized at Farmington, consist- .ng of about thirty heads of families, some of whom were among the most wealthy and influential in the town. The society voted to raise two hundred dollars, and the people ai Strong subscribed V little more than one hundred, for the support of preaching; and requested Mr. White, after journeying west, to return and jupply them the ensuing year. But as he was engaged by the South Parish in Bath they have remained destitute from March the time of his leaving them,) till the last Sabbath ; when tin -iev . Jonathan Burr, gent by the Massachusetts 'Missionary So iety, arrived there j whois to continue six week.-.; after which ime, they expect a missionary from ihis Society, to be Btationed h Farmington and vieinitj ; they having sufficient funds ahead . /> continue him through the fear. The Rev. Jonathan Bigelow had a mission of twelve and a half weeks at Lubec and vicinity ; and Mr. Henry .1. Merrill of i weeks at Columbia and Addison. These are all the sei that were appointed for the county of Washington ; a th< Ma . sachusetts vlissionary Society have had, for two or three years post, one or more mis lionaries in that territory, the most of" t! < time. time of refreshing from his presence. They have from time to tune, and lor a long lime, made great sacrifices and exertions to support the Gospel, and are willing to do so. They propose to nay for preaching one half of the time, that is, every other Sab- bath, and to have society meetings on the other Sabbaths, except when they are supplied by missionaries. This, considering their small numbers and want of means, is as much as they can accom- plish. Within the year, a few females have formed themselves luto a cent society, and transmitted a small sum to aid the Maine Missionary Society. Two Sabbath schools also have been con- stantly attended to, and a considerable number of youth and « hitdren have been taught in the things which belong to their peace." In regard to Washington, where he spent the remaining part of his time, Mr. Lovejoy remarks : " The state of things the year past has been much more interesting, than 1 ever knew it before; and the prospect of eventually establishing the Gospel ministry here is promising. The Congregational Church has re- ceived an addition of ten members ; and an equal degree of addi- tional interest and feeling." The people in that place have rais nd by subscription, sufficient to continue him about twice as lon^ as he has been with them as a missionary. He concludes his journal, by saying: " 1 have as much reason, perhaps, to suppose my feeble attempts in the Gospel have been blessed in this town.. as at any place where 1 have preached." r ice-vu mill iur reiuge. At.-., ^o .u mm, who is me sinner's friend. Submit to his authority, and surren- der to his love. Abandon every other dependence, and, feeling yourselves to be lost and ruined, rely upon the merit and the efficacy of that blood, which was shed upon the cross to redeem you. May we all surrender ourselves to this Saviour $ and love and serve him, while we live. For he is worthy. Yes, " Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing," forever and ever. dMEJV. BX7146.M2A7 1823 A sermon delivered in Portland, June i\>, Princeton Theological Seminary-Speer Library In the course of last a VIr. Henry T. Kelley and Mr. Seneca Tfnite, were engaged as missionaries, each for the term ol twenty-four weeks ; the former was stationed in the county ol Somerset, and the latter at Farmington, Strong and Industry, in the county of K.ennebe< . Mr. Kelley visited arid preached in almost all the destitute places, in the count) of Somerset : and also spent a few Sabbath? in Wilton and Temple, in the county of Kennebec. " In Tem- ple," he remarks, " I found rather more attention than usual, amon the youth ; three or four of whom, between ten and fifteen years <>!' age, I hope, hai e knov n by experience w hal it is to pa • from death unto life." In the course ofhU ■ he "preach/i ed one hundred and fifteen times, attended fifteen conference and prayer meetings, visited .-ix schools, and made owe hundred and seventy-eight family visits.'? Mr. \Viiii.' spent one half of his time, that i ; , every othei Sab bath, at Farmington, and the other half of his time was equally divided between two adjoining towns, Strong and Industry. IK 1 preached one huncfred and five times, attended nine church conferences, three prayer meetings and four funerals, visited eight schools, and made one bundled and nine family visits."' "I have not," he states in his journal, "the pleasure to say, that there lias been any thing like a special revival of religion, in ei- ther of these towns during my missionary ■ ej vi< i - ; vet there has been an increasing attention to the subject of religion, and meet- ings have constantly increased in number-. In Strong and In dustry, there is not only a considerable degree ot" seriousness in general, but a few instances of anxious inquiry." While Ml White was performing his missionary serv'u es, there was a Con gregational society formed and organized at Farmington, consist- ing of about thirty heads of families, Mine- of whom wen' among the most wealthy and influential in the town. The society voted to raise two hundred dollar.'-, and the people at Strong subscribed a little more than one hundred, for the support of preaching; and requested Mr. White, after journeying west, to return and supply them the ensuing year. But as he was engaged by the South Parish in Bath they have remained destitute from March (the time of his leaving them,) till the last Sabbath ; when th« Rev. Jonathan Burr, sent by the Massachusetts Missionary So ciety, arrived there j who-is to continue six weeks; after which time, they expect a missionary from this Society, to !)<■ stationed in Farmington and vicini'v ; they having sufficient funds ahead . to continue him through the year. The Rev. Jonathan Bigelow had a mission of twelve and a half weeks at Lubec and vicinity : and Mr. Henry ./. Merrill of i weeks at Columbia and Addison. These are all lie that were appointed for the county of Washington ; as the Mas sachusetts >lissionary Society have had, for two or three years past, one or more mi lionariet In that territory, th< ' th< time. ^ Mr. Bi^elow, who is settled at Lubec, ami whose missionary services were assigned to that (own, except occasional labors in the adjacent towns, writes : " The promising appearances which I have heretofore mentioned, have to a great degree subsided; some who were then awakened have become hopeful converts, and others have relapsed into indifference. The Sabbath school has been well attended." And he adds, "The meetings in this place have been attended quite as well during the past year, as at any time previous; and I see no reason for discouragement in regard to the maintenance of the ministry among them." Mr. Merrill writes, under dale of January last when his mis- sion was closed : " A large proportion of my time has been spent in visits ; I have preached thirty-one sermons, attended twelve pray- er meetings, two funerals and one conference. The monthly con- cert of prayer was attended November and December, for the first time, in Columbia and Addison. There is much want of religious instruction, in this region. In Jonesboro', Harrington, Steuben, Gouldsboro', and Sullivan," (though there are churches of differ- ent denominations,) " there is no settled minister, nor any one among them who preaches constantly. From Ellsworth to Ma- chias, a space of sixty miles, and including eight incorporated towns, there is no place to which the hungry soul may resort, from Sabbath to Sabbath, for the bread of life." Since this period, that is, in April last, the Trustees received a communication from the Congregational society in Sullivan, in which they state : " Our society is very small and very poor ; our church consists only of nine members. We have had no regular Congregational preaching for eight or nine years. We have now one hundred dollars, which is devoted to pay for preaching, and can collect perhaps fifty dollars more. But we will do all we can. We wish to have our situation taken into consideration at the annual meeting of the Missionary Society, and if they can send us a good minister, and all the pecuniary aid they think we deserve, compared with other destitute places, we shall be very grateful for it." At the conclusion of his missionary services in Washington county, Mr. Merrill returned West, and was employed by the Congregation at Shapleigh, over which he has since been ordain- ed as Pastor, with the expectation of employment, as a mission- ary, in that vicinity, for some* portion of the year. The Rev. Lincoln Ripley had a mission of 4 weeks at Albany ; Rev. Amasa Smith, 4 weeks at Fryeburg and vicinity ; Rev. David Slarret, 12 1-2 weeks at Weld and vicinity; and Rev. Charles Frost, 12 weeks at Gilead : all in the county of Oxford. Mr. Ripley, though he spent most of his Sabbaths in Albany, yet preached in the three adjoining towns and plantations. [Greenwood, Gilead and Bachelor's Grant.] Besides preaching 23 sermons, he visited, in these places, 99 families, embracing 555 persons, of whom 48 were professors of religion. 364 were * h 4 the tfie go pel, since in> leaving them. But they are repre- sented as being feeble as to means, and still further needing charitable aid. Mr. \\ ilcox Btatea in his journal : ' A iVv. Sab- laths previous to ray entering upon the miss on, the Bacrament of ♦l»«JLonl\j Supper was administered tn this church, and three ' Rev. 1 nomas Mums had an appointment of 12 weeks at L-nu- i ton. It is a place, where he has Heretofore labored, and "here they contribute in part to the support of the mission. The proa pert of the establishment of the gospel there, at least tor a part of the year, he thinks is encouraging. They labor under the in- convenience of having no building sufficiently large, to accommo- date all v, ho wish to attend worship; which inconvenience, they hope, ere lon| may be removed. In the Journal of Mr. Adams, it is stated : "The last Sabbath that I passed there, we had the largest assembly 1 have ever seen in that place. It afforded what I consider decisive evidence, that they do wish to enjoy the min- istration of the gospel. My visit to that place was rendered still more interesting, by the indications I found that the Spirit of God was moving upon the hearts of some among them. The minds of many are evidently solemnized, and some are led with deep interest and anxiety to enquire— What shall we do: It was, on several accounts, the most interesting visit I ever made to that place — I am more and more convinced of the importance ot Clinton, as a field for missionary labor : and I am disposed to believe, that could the ministrations of the gospel be established on any thing like a permanent basis, there would be at least a usual degree of liberality in its support." The Trustees commissioned Mr. Nathan ll\ Sheldon to labor 4 weeks at Brown vi lie ; Mr, Thomas T. Stone, 6 weeks at Mun- son ; and Mr. Caleb F. Page, 8 weeks at Andover, and 9 atSears- mon^and vicinity. __._ „ klIcll - respective spires ... , , The trustees have satisfactory evidence of the prudence and fidelity, with which the missionaries have performed the various services assigned then;. And though no extensive re- vivals have been witnessed in the course of their labors; yel it may be confidently asserted, that much good has been done. Weak churches have been strengthened, and where there was 'a famine of hearing the words of the Lord," they have been fed. A very general and unusual attention to the means of re in has been excited ; and in many places some sprinkling divine grace; (and we should not ''despise the day of small things ;'"; some Bprinklings of divine .Mace which may be viewed IS a prelude to "an abundance of rain :" i:ia\ be viewed, as ■ pledge from Heaven, that God will command his blessing, even life forevermore. And is it anj ground of discouragement, any reason for dis- continuing missionary efforts, be i ise there ;-re no extensive and srful revivals of religion within the limits of their operation ? pglecl to iari est is not so eai h i* 30 Mr. Bigelow, who is settled at Lubec, and whose missionary services were assigned to that town, except occasional labors in the adjacent towns, writes : " The promising appearances which I have heretofore mentioned, have to a great degree subsided ; some who were then awakened have become, hopeful converts, *$e^fo!m7£7ngrc^m had a mission of 10 'week's, \i\ tlie vicini- ty of Thomaston. Rev. Jotham SewaU, 10 weeks at Wilton and vicinity. Rev. Josiah Feet, and Rev. Fijh/d Holt, 4 weeks each, in the county of Somerset. Rev. Gardiner KeUogg, 10 weeks at Strong and vicinity. Rev. Jonathan Belden, 16 weeks, equally apportioned to Wind- sor, Knox, Putnam and Unity. Rev. Stephen Merrill, 7 weeks at Kittery. Rev. Daniel Kendrick, 6 weeks at Edgecomb. Rev. Josiah G. Merrill, 4 weeks, at Raymond and vicinity, the people there paying one half of the expense Rev. Samuel Sewall, two weeks at Harpswell. Rev. Mr. Joms, was engaged on a mission of 12 weeks, and is now but just entered on his services at Limington, Mr. Christopher Marsh had an appointment of four weeks at Scarborough, and six at Sand ford, the people in the latter place, defraying the expenses of one half of the mission. He preached twenty -four times, made nineteen family visits, and. distributed various religious tracts, as he had opportunity. His services were evidently well received: and, as he stated, " great exer- tions were made to frequent public worship, and very solemn attention under Jhe ministration of the word." After his mis- sionary services hail closed, the people employed him as a candi- date, wave him a unanimous call to settle with them ; to whose lv , r „<..v:,! ca™ '•■> nn.n ^.ri»;«n.) +1™ hflmnnin gr of the present month, meeting of the Missionary Society, and if they can send us a good minister, and all the pecuniary aid they think we deserve, compared with other destitute places, we shall be very grateful for it." At the conclusion of his missionary services in Washington county, Mr. Merrill returned West, and was employed by the Congregation at Shapleigh, over which he has since been ordain- ed as Pastor, with the expectation of employment, as a mission- ary, in that vicinity, for some* portion of the year. The Rev. Lincoln Ripley had a mission of 4 weeks at Albany ; Rev. Amasa Smith, 4 Weeks at Fryeburg and vicinity ; Rev. David Starret, 12 1-2 weeks at Weld and vicinity; and Rev. Charles Frost, 12 weeks at Gilead : all in the county of Oxford. Mr. Ripley, though he spent most of his Sabbaths in Albany, yet preached in the three adjoining towns and plantations. [Greenwood, Gilead and Bachelor's Grant.] Besides preaching 23 sermons, he visited, in these places, 99 families, embracing 555 persons, of whom 48 were professors of religion. 364 were >l of the tKe gospel, Bince his leaving (hem. But they art! repre- sented as being feeble as to means, and siill further needing charitable aid. Mr. Wilcox states in his journal : ' A few Sab- baths previous t<> my entering upon the mission, the Bacrament of the Lord's Supper was administered to this church, and three were added to their number. Since thai time lour or five hope ful cases of convi reion have occurred." These had not attached thems< Ives to any particular church. Mr. Mdiiriu Cory spenl four weeks in the employment of this Society at Poland and vicinity; and Mr. James Weslon\ seven- teen weeks at Pitt-ton, kingfiehl, Phillips and Lebanon, with their \ icinities. Mr. If > Hon >jiont a greater part of lii^ time in Pin -ton, than i;i any other place assigned him for missionary labor ; and the I Le continued him five Sabbaths by their own coutributi tie closed -Ms mission at Lebanon, wnere the people have con- tinued u> employ him hitherto on their own account: 01 this place, he remarks: " I here found a church of about 50 members, with lew exceptions, in as flourishing a state as respects faith and practice, a-, could be expected with regard to a church so long deprived of a pastor. Both in the church and in the So- ciety, I think. 1 discern evident traces of the faithful labors of their late pastor. " He closes his journal under date of 3d ifist. observing: "The Lord, I trust is answering prayer. Ap pearances are favorable. Several, in this place, have already in- dulged hope; some exhibit much distress for their souls; others aanifest more or les^ theughtfulness and anxiety." The preceding notices, give a general view of the missionary services of the past year; and the trustees would not attempt that minuteness of detail which would be proper for the mission aries themselves, in regard to their respective spheres of opera tion. The trustees have satisfactory evidence of the prudence and fidelity, with which the missionaries have performed the various services assigned them. And though no extensive re- rivals have been witnessed in the course of their labor- ; yet it may be confidently asserted, that much good lias been done. Weak churches have been strengthened, and where there was ' a famine of hearing the words of the Lord," they have been fed. A very general and unusual attention to the means ol ligion has been excited ; and in many places sOme sprinklings of divine grace; (and we should not ''despise the (lay of small things ;") some sprinklings of divine grace which may be viewed i- a prelude to " an abundance of rain :" ma) be viewed, as a pledge from Heaven, that God will command his blessing, even life forevermore. And is it any ground of discouragement, any reason for dis- inuing missionary efforts, be ise there are no extensive and ■rful revivals of religion within the limits of their operation r Shal • u teglect to sow, because the harvest is not so earh as 24 lie could wish ? Shall he refuse to " hreak up the fallow ground," and to enrich and cultivate the soil, because he cannot command the growth of the fruits of the earth ? No. " Let Paul plant, and A polios water, and wait upon God for the increase." Besides if the want of immediate, manifest, and abundant success, should discourage missionary efforts, why not the continuance of the stated means of religion ? In the. eighty congregational churches in our state which are supplied with pastors, how few are the re- vivals of religion now ! and how few have there been in the year that is past ! We do not say, there are none. There are — bless- ed be God !— there are those, which gladden the hearts of the friends of Zion. But how few are the fields, which are as " a watered garden," compared with those which are a " barren heath, and know not when good cometh !" " This is a lamentation, and shall be for a lamentation." But should it at all discourage exertions? It should increase them. It should also lead to a sol- emn, heart-searching, and humbling enquiry, wherefore the Lord should stay his blessing; why he should make " the heavens over our heads as brass, and the rain of our land as powder and dust." We must feel more, and pray more, and do more in regard to this important object, before we can receive the honorable testi- monial, the consoling approbation, given to a disciple by our Lord, in the days of his flesh ; They have done what they could. The statement of the treasury will be submitted to you, by the officer of that department. It will be seen that the trustees'have not only exhausted the means put into their hands, but made some anticipation of the expected income of the present meeting. Indeed this has been usually done. And such were the multi- plied and importunate calls of the last year, that they could not well do otherwise. They heard the cries of the destitute around them ; and hearing, they could not but pity them ; and pitying, they could not but attempt to relieve them. This Society, it is well known, lives only upon the charities of the day. It has so lived, and led a life of extensive usefulness, for sixteen years. It has no means, except what the Lord sends, bv his servants, from day to day. The trustees would except from this remark, a few hundred dollars, the avails of the re- siduary legacy of the late Peter Thatcher, Esquire ; and also the reversion, after the death of the incumbent, of two farms with dwelling-houses, the bequest of the late Dr. John Wingate. The property last mentioned, the Society will probably be disposed to make an immediate sale of. The reversion, it is judged, by men acquainted with that species of property, and who have examined the premises with that particular view, might be sold now, for between 1000 and 1500 dollars. But, besides these two small items, the Society depends en- tirely, (under God,) upon the annual and voluntary contributions of the Christian public. And will that Christian public suffer all Institution to languish, whose sole object is to honor the 33 "KetWemer, in the salvation of perishing souls? Ob, nol the* cannot. " The love of Christ constraineth them.'? They will continue, as they have done, to cast into the treasury of the Lonl, until it slu u be said, as it was in the btildingof the taber- nacle of old : " The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work, which the Lord commanded to make." (Exodus 36 : 5.) This society has strong claims upon the charities of those, who are interested in the spread of pure, evangelical, spiritual re- ligion ; the onlj religion indeed which can bow the stubborn will, and bring ''every thought into captivity to Christ." It is this that must raise man from the ruins of theapostacy. This "gos- E:l of the kingdom is to be proclaimed to the world ;"' a " world ins in wickedness*" It is *' the glorious gospel of the blessed ad ;" and it shall be accompanied with a Sovereign irresistible power. The art and sophistry of men and devils shall not ob- scure its splendor $ the combined efforts of earth and hell shall not arrest its progress. It is " the power of God unto salvation, to every one mat believeth." Nothing else can renew, convert and save the soul. What can philosophy, what can human rea- son and human wisdom accomplish r "NX hat can essays and lec- tures upon moral fitness and the beauty of virtue avail, to sanc- tify the polluted heart, to give life to the spiritually dead, and to bring the wandering sinner home to his God i He is bound by the chains of sin ; chains which no earthly efforts can break. He is under the burden of iniquity, a burden which no arm of flesh can remove. How cutting, and yet how just is the language of the Christian poet ! " Haste now, philosopher, and set him free. Charm the deaf serpent wisely. Make him hear Ot" rectitude and fitness, moral truth How lovely, and the moral sense how sure, Consulted and obeyed, to guide his steps Directly to the First and only Fair. Spare not in such a cause. Spend all the powers Of rant and rhapsody in virtue's praise ; Be most sublimely good, verbosely grand, And with poetic trappings grace thy prose, Till it oulmantle all the pride of verso. Ah ! tinkling cymbal, and high sounding brass, Smitten in vain ! Such music cannot charm The eclipse that intercepts truth's heavenly beam. And chills and darkens a wide-wandering soul. The still small voice is wanted He must speak, Whose word leaps forth at once to its elfect. The transformation of apostate man From fool to wise, from earthly to divine, Is work for him that made him. He alone Achieves the wonder." And such wonders nave been achieved, in every age of tow worlds T 1 '-'' last 'v- ,a: "ce r of a century has been distinguished b} 5 34 the rapid extension and multiplied trophies of the Redeemer's kingdom. The darkest minds have been illuminated ; and the fiercest natures subdued. A single instance might illustrate this ; an instance occurring, but the last month, at the meeting of the "United Foreign Missionary Society;" where an Osage Avarrior presented to the institution his " war club," with the solemn avowal that his arm should never again wield that weapon of hostility upon the field of battle; but that henceforth he would be the disciple of Him, whose descent from heaven to our world was celebrated with the song of angels : Peace on earth, good will to men. And is this the arm of man ? Oh no, it is " the finger of God." This is the only power that can tame the savage ; that can change the lion into the Iamb. And the united efforts of various Christian institutions, embracing the zeal and ardor of many, and accompanied with the blessing of Heaven, shall multiply such tokens of power and grace all over the earth. Idols shall fall, and darkness shall vanish, and God alone be glorified. Soon the appointed angel shall exclaim with exulta- tion and triumph ; " The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ; and he shall reign for- ever and ever." Yes, " at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, of things in Heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth ; and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." ^mooooooooo*^*- TREASURER'S STATEMENT. Maine Missionary Society, in account current with Daniel Campbell, their Treasurer. Dr. June 25. To paid Trustees' orders - - §2048,17 1823. To counterfeit bills taken on their account, last annual meeting and credited them in our settlement .... 7^0 82055,17 By balance in Treasury, as per settlement last C'r. year, consisting of cash - 377,74} fty .„ ,. . Notes due the Society - 355,80 5 »7Jo,04 Donations ami contributions ... 1374,03 Monies received to constitute life members 80,00 Entries and annuities --.-•- 465,00 §2652,57 Debt brought down, J 2055,17 Balance in Treasury, $597.40 85 Portland, June 25, 1823. The subscriber, having been appointed i<» audit the accounts of the Treasurer during the year past, has attended to that service, and finds them correctlj casl and well vouched, and thai there \\ as in the Treasury , at the last annual meeting, a balance of seven hundred and thirty -three dollars and fifty-four cents, and there has been paid into it, in donations and contribitfiens, one thous- and, three hundred Beventy-four dollars and three cents; in an- nuities and entries, four hundred and sixty-five dollars; and in life subscriptions, eighty dollars ; making a total of two thousand BU hundred and fifty-two dollars and fifty-seven cents. I) ; ing the year, the Treasurer has paid Trustees' orders to the amount of two thousand and forty-eight dollars and 7 y 7 , and been allow- ed seven dollars for counterfeit bills, paid in bv persons un- known: making the total of expenditures for the year, two thousand and fifty -five dollars, and seventeen cents; and leaving a balance in the Treasury ol live hundred and ninety-seven dol- lars and forty cents, as per his account above. ASA CUMMINGS, Auditor. Account of monies received for 1 822, after last year's statement had gone to the press, and up to July 24, 1823. DONATIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS. From g ets. Rev. Professor Fowler, Bangor, 5,00 Rev. Dr. Payson's society, Portland, 100,00 Otisfield Female Miss. Society, by Rev. Mr. Merrill. 5,18 Female Misg. Society, Berwick, by Rev. Mr. Hilliard, 10,00 Female Assistant Miss. Society, Falmouth, 23,00 Mrs. Kendrick, Pittston, by Mr. .1. Weston, 1,00 Female Cent Society, Bath, Mrs. Ellingwood, Treasurer, half yearly payment, 17,84 Peoplc'at Indian River, by Mr. H. A. Merrill, 2,00 People at Moos Pecky Reech, by same, 1,02 Mr. Jonathan Woodward, Columbia, by same, ,75 People in Solon, by Mr. Kelly, 2,50 Mr. Elias Bond's Miss, box, 2,50 Bill on Mechanic Bank, uncurrent here, but passed by me in Baltimore, 2,00 Avails of Miss, field in Winlhrup, in Rev. Mr. Thurston's society, 2,50 Bath Female Cent Society, Mrs. Ellingwood, Treasurer, half yearly payment, 24, 67 Contribution of Rev. Mr. Ell dogwood's society, Bath, 18,00 Mr. John Taylor, Bath, 2,00 Female Charitable Society, Wayne, Mis. Dexter, Treas. 3,75 36 Female Cent Society, first Parish North -Yarmouth, Mrs. Cummings, Treasurer, 2'£,00 Rev. Mr. Cummings, N. Yarmouth, 1,00 The preceding Hems are included in the Auditor's certificate the present year. Female Donation Society, New-Gloucester 10,00 Female Professor, avails of a garden, 5,00 Female Miss. Society, Strong, Mrs. Hunter, Treasurer, 10,08 Female Miss. Society, Farmington, Mrs. Titcomb, Treas. 13,86 From Norridgewock, 2,00 Rev. Mr. Kellogg's Society, Windham, 12,63 Female Miss. Society, Portland, Mrs. Greely, Treasurer, 31, 2C Avails of Mr. Thomas Smith's Miss. Field, 4,45 Avails of his son Thomas' Miss. Field, 75 Female Cent Society, Litchfield, Mrs. Smith, Treasurer, 7,45 Congregational Society, Litchfield, 4,83 Female Cent Society, Freeport, Mrs.Vezie, Treasurer, 8,26 Rev. Mr. Merrill's Society, Freeport, • 6,47 Rev. Mr. Greely's Society, Turner, 4,00 People in Danville, by Rev.- Mr. Greely, 4,00 Female Cent Society, Waldoborough, 7,00 Mr. George Holm, avails of Miss. Feld, 2,00 Mr. E. Hall, 2,00 Rev. Mr. Tappan's Society, Augusta, 26,26 A 2d donation from an aged friend, Augusta, 1,00 Rev. Mr. Mead's Society, Brunswick, 21,00 Female friend, by Rev. Mr. Sewall, 1,00 Female Cent Soc. Wells, raised in 1822, Mrs. Storer, Treas. 17,27 Same Society in 1823, Miss Wheelwright, Treasurer, 12,00 An unknown friend, 5,00 A friend, 2,00 Females in Hampden, by Rev. Mr. Loomis, 3,00 Rev. President Allen, Bowdoin College, 10,00 Charity Box in Portland, enclosed in a letter by Mercy A. Whitman, 1,50 Female Miss. Society, Minot, Mrs. Jones, Treasurer, 7,50 Cape Elizabeth Female Cent Society, 13,78- Rev. Jotham Sewall's Society, Chesterville, S,26 Otisfield Female Miss. Society, Miss Knight, Treasurer, 4,25 People of Raymond, by Rev. Mr. Merrill, 6,75 Contribution after Sermon, at Portland, and a Gold Ring, 201,75 A Female, in Limerick, by Mr. Payson, 1,00 Rev. Mr. Ingraham's Parish, Thomaston, 13,85 Mr. Nathaniel Chapman, 5,00 Rev. Mr. Starrett's Society, Weld, 6,44 People in Temple, by Rev. Mr. Starrett, 3,30 Female Miss. Society, Temple, Miss Sal va Abbott, Treasurer,6, 8© 37 Money returned by Select Committee, 1,86 Mr. Aaron Cummuigs, 1,00 Avails of Miss, field in neighborhood of Rev. Mr. Thurston, Winthrop, 15,88 Interest on money loaned, 4,00 Female Assistant Miss. Society, Gorliam, Mrs. Lewis, Treasurer, 27,50 Female Charitable Society, Fairfield, 6,56 Contribution of Rev. Mr. Holt's Society, Bloomfield, 7,00 Donation Female Cent Society, Bloomfield, 10,06 People in Solon, bv Subscription, r,no Contribution box, Windsor, 3, .37 Contribution in Rev. Mr. Thurston's Society, Winthrop, 11,57 Society of Females, Clinton, 10,02 Female Miss. Society, Industry, Miss C. Allen, Treasurer, 2,75 Female Miss. Society, Starks, Miss S. Wood, Treasurer, 2,59 Pair of thin Shoes, Capt. J. Trask, Female religious Society, Hallowell, 18,65 Contribution in Rev. Mr. Gillet's Society, Hollowell, 31,00 Avails of cloth from New-Sharon, 12,75 Avails of Missionary Sermons sold, ' ,60 Donation from Winthrop Female Assistant Miss. Society, Mrs. P. Thurston, Treasurer, 9,31 Avails of three gold ring9, ,58 A bequest from the late Miss Maria Manning, of Salem, (Mass.) given during her last sickness, for Missionary purposes, by the hands of Rev. Mr. Ellingwood, 25,00 ENTRIES AND ANNUITIES. Rev. T. Adams, 82 N. Coffin, Esq. 6 Hon. B. Ames 2 C. Clapp, Esq. 2 J. Burbank 2 T. dishing 4 S. G. Bowman 2 *Capt. F. Clark 2 Rev. K. Bailey 2 Mrs. Cleaves 2 E.Bond 2 Rev. J. Cogswell £ Capt. T. Brown 2 J. Chase 6 Dr. J. Barker 2 Dea. J. Coe 2 Dea. T. Bradbury 2 L. Cross a Rev. M. Blood " 6 N. Cram 2 E. Bailey 1 D. Campbell 2 S. Blanchard 1 J.Craig 2 J. J. Boyd 3 L. Cutter 2 J. Bartlet I N. Chapman 2 Rev. P. Chapin 8 N. Chadburn 1 S. Curtis, Esq. 2 S. Cobb 2 Dea. N. Cross 2 E. Collier 1 • Capt. P. tlark paid S2 in 1822, which by mistake was put to the name of Capt. 8. Clark, in lust year's s 30,00 40 SUMMARY. Balance in Treasury, on settlement &397,4G Donations and Contributions 717,77 Entries and Annuities 488,00 Members for life 90,00 1868,17 Paid out since last settlement 831,00 Balance in Treasury S 1062, If D. CAMPBELL, Winthrop, July 24, 1823. OFFICERS ELECTED, JUNE 25, 1823. Rev. WILLIAM ALLEN, D. D. Pres. Bowd. Coll. President Hon. AMMI R. MITCHELL, N- Yarmouth, V. President. Rev. ELIPHALET GILLET, Hallowell, Corres. Secretary. Rev. DAVID THURSTON, Winthrop, Recording Secretary. DANIEL CAMPBELL, Esq. Winthrop, Treasurer, ELIASHIB ADAMS, Esq. Bangor, Auditor. TRUSTEES. Rev. KIAH BAYLEY, New-Castle. Rev. MIGHILL BLOOD, Bucksport. Rev. EDWARD PAYSON, D. D. Portland, Rev. BENJAMIN TAPPAN, Augusta. Rev. JONATHAN COGSWELL, Saco. Rev. ASA RAND, Portland. Rev. JOHN W. ELLINGWOOD, Bath. Together with the Presidents and Secretaries, SELECT COMMITTEE. Rev. ELIPHALET GILLET, Rev. WILLIAM ALLEN, D. D. Rev. DAVID THURSTON, Rev. BENJAMIN TAPPAN, Rev. JOHN W. ELLINGWOOD. The next meeting of the Society will be held at the Rev, Mr. Loomis' meeting house, in Bangor, on the fourth Wednesday of June, 1824, at 9 o'clock, A. M. The Rev. Allen Greely of Turner is first Preacher, and the Rev. David M- Mitchell, his Bwfcsstitwte.