CONCORD BAPTIST ASSOCIATION MINUTES Submitted for the Union Parish Louisiana USGenWeb Archives by Shawn Martin, 3/23/2004 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ************************************************ ================================================================================= Minutes of the Concord Baptist Association 1888 - 1889 ================================================================================= transcribed by Shawn Martin from originals supplied by Gene Barron Constitution Art. 1. This Association shall be know by the name of the Concord Baptist Association. Art. 2. This Association shall be composed of delegates chosen by the churches composing it, who shall, on presenting satisfactory evidence of their appointment by the churches, be entitled to seats as member of the body. Art. 3. This Association shall have no power to legislate for the churches, to pass any resolutions, or do anything that will violate their individual rights. Art. 4. Each church belonging to this body shall have the power to represent herself at each session by two delegates, until her number of members shall reach seventy-five, then she shall be entitled to three delegates, and one additional delegate for every twenty-five members over twenty-five. Art. 5. It shall be the duty of each church to send up to each session of this body a letter containing a brief history of her progress since the last session, which the following particulars, viz: Her prosperity and adversity; the names of the pastors and deacons; ordained and licensed preachers and delegates; also the number baptized; number received by letter; number restored; number dismissed; number excluded; number dead; number in fellowship; amount paid on pastor's salary during the year; amount paid for repairs on church property; amount paid for incidental expenses; value of all the church property; number of scholars in Sunday School; names of superintendent and secretary of Sunday School; amount paid for expenses of Sunday School; amount paid for missions -- State and Foreign; amount paid for ministerial education, and the number of members who have contributed to mission. Art. 6. It shall be the duty of each church to send up to each session of his Association such contributions in money as she may choose, to supply the body with a fund to defray the expenses incurred by her, in the prudent exercise of her constitutional rights and the faithful discharge of her duties. Art. 7. Each church shall have the right to send up in her letter to each session of the Association such queries as she may choose, asking the advice of the Association upon them; provided, the subject matter of said queries cannot be satisfactorily determined by the Church. Art. 8. A church wishing to join this Association shall send up a petitionary letter by the hands of her delegates, accompanied by satisfactory testimonials of her order and orthodoxy; and any church thus petitioning may be received into this Association by a unanimous vote only. Art. 9. This Association shall have power to appoint to any office or service, necessary to carry out her constitutional objects, any delegate belonging to the body. Art. 10. This Association shall have power to correspond with sister Associations, churches, or individuals, as she may from time to time deem proper. Art. 11. This Association shall have power to deal with, and, if necessary, to expel any church that she deems heretical or disorderly; and to restore to fellowship any church that she may have excluded. Art. 12. It shall be the duty of this Association to furnish the churches of which she is composed with such a number of her minutes as they may from time to time desire. Art. 13. This Association shall have power to adjourn to any time and place she may choose. Art. 14. Representatives from a majority of the churches shall form a quorum; but if a majority shall at any time fail to represent themselves, it shall be the duty of those present to appoint the next session and adjourn. Art. 15. This Association shall have a fund, to be supplied by the voluntary contributions of the churches, which shall be subject to the order and direction of the Association. Art. 16. The officers of this Association shall be a Moderator, Clerk and Treasurer, who shall be chosen by the Associ8ation at each session, who shall hold their offices for one year, or until others are elected. Art. 17. It shall be the duty of the Clerk to keep a fair and correct record of all the proceedings of the Association, which shall be read, corrected (if necessary), and signed by the Moderator and Clerk before the Association rises. Art. 18. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive and hold all moneys paid over to him for the use of the Association, subject to her order, and pay them out according to her directions. Art. 19. This Association shall have the power to dismiss by letter any church that may belong to this body, upon the request of the church to so be dismissed. Art. 20. Amendments to this constitution may be made at any annual meeting of the Association, whenever two-thirds of the delegates shall deem it necessary; but the abstract of Faith shall not be altered but by the voice of two-thirds of the churches; therefore, all the amendments or alterations that shall be attempted in the Abstract of Faith shall first be submitted to the churches, and their decision shall govern the Association. --PROCEEDINGS-- Farmerville, La., September 15, 1888 1. The Concord Baptist Association, in its fifty-sixth annual session, convened in the meeting house of the Baptist Church of Farmerville at 10 o'clock a.m., September 15, 1888. 2. After religious exercises for thirty minutes, led by the venerable brother Eld. C. King, the Association was called to order by the Clerk, the Moderator, Eld. S. T. Cobb having been, since our last Association, called home by the Master to His upper and better kingdom. 3. On motion of Eld. J. R. Edwards, Eld. J. W. Melton was elected as temporary Moderator. 4. On motion of J. R. Edwards, a committee on credentials was appointed, consisting of J. R. Edwards, J. M. White and R. J. Tabor. 5. After an intermission of ten minutes, and at the hour of eleven, the introductory was preached by Eld. A. J. Callaway from the text -- John the 17th chapter and 22nd verse -- "And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one." In this discourse the brother dwelt upon the importance of consistency--a oneness of faith and practice, and in all things give God the glory. 6. On motion of Eld. J. P. Everett, the Association adjourned until 1:30 p.m. EVENING SESSION 7. Song--"There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood." Prayer by Eld. T. J. Humble. The Association called to order, Eld. J. W. Melton presiding. 8. The report of committee on Credentials was read and adopted and committee continued for further report if necessaray. Report of Committee on Credentials. We, your committee on Credentials report the following brethren entitled to seats in your body: Providence -- T. G. Guice, H. G. Bayles, W. C. Antley, H. H. Chun. Concord -- G. A. Burton, N. Reves, R. H. Reed, D. W. Hollis. Culbertson -- Rev. D. L. Hicks, J. E. Gill, *J. P. Frazier. Meridian -- Eld. W. H. Gathright, E. L. Clark, Samuel Smith. Bethel -- J. W. Nicklas, J. M. Thurman, *J. S. Jackson. Camp Creek -- Elds. L. B. Abbett, C. King. Mineral Springs (Lin.) -- A. H. Colvin, J. H. Revel, H. G. Chapman. Union -- Eld. C. H. Haley, Eld. J. R. Edwards, W. G. Smith, J. L. Winberry, J. F. Hammons, S. P. Lewis. New Prospect -- A. C. Colvin, Ralph Colvin, *G. W. Alexander, *H. K.Martin. Fellowship -- W. H. Fuller, A. T. Fuller, J. A. Mitchell, J. M. Cook, J. R. Heard, C. F. Antry, John Culpepper, B. G. Antry, G. H. Colvin. Vienna -- J. M. Stallings. Paron -- Emmet Parks, *J. W. Halley. Zion Hill -- Jesse Odom, S. J. Beaird. Antioch -- Eld. J. M. Roddy, J. B. Williams. Liberty (Union) -- Eld. H. H. Ward, W. N. Miller, Eld. A. J. Calloway, S. R. Nolan, W. M. Cole. Beulah -- S. Welch, Joseph Abbott. Farmerville -- W. W. Heard, J. M. Lee, E. J. Lee, J. A. Manning. Sharon -- J. M. Moncrief, *D. J. Robinet, J. F. Matthews, J. H. Bogan, John Bogan. Canaan -- G. W. Carroll, James McAdams, *S. E. Brooks. Sardis -- W. O. Bearden, *R.G. Muse. Summerfield -- S. Kerlin, *W. G. Barrow. Oak Grove -- T. H. Tullis, *L. A. Linder Mt. Ararat -- *J. M. Stevens, James Burns. Shady Grove -- J. S. Meeks, *Patterson Rogers. Liberty (Oua.) -- S. N. Camp, G. W. Boton. Spearsville -- J. W. Hunt, S. R. Templeton. Mt. Tabor -- R. J. Tabor, D. W. Hodges. Pisgah -- A. Kitchens, J. E. Ferguson, *J. C. Feazel. Hebron -- E. R. Nolan, L. F. Thurman, W. M. Ledbetter. Mt. Olive -- C. N. Culpepper, M. H. Thorton. Rocky Springs -- J. W. Melson, C. E. Foster, J. A. Melton, F. J. Peterson, W. P. Foster. Plesant Hill -- I. S. Phillips, G. W. Norton. Shiloh -- J. P. Everett, Robert Patrick, B. F. Grafton, J. W. Polk, P. Moore, T. T. Porter, J. D. Hamilton. New Hope -- J. C. Jones, J. M. White, W. J. Smith, S. P. Leggett, A. T. Wright, P. P. Roach, *T. J. Ford. Mt. Vernon -- T. J. Humble, Z. T. Howell. Mt. Union -- S. J. Beaird, D. B. Henderson J. R. Edwards Respectfully, R. J. Tabor J. M. White 9. A motion by S. R. Nolan to suspend the rule requiring a vote by ballot to elect the officers was lost, whereupon Elds. C. W. Tompkies and G. W. Harrell were requested to act as tellers. The election resulted in the choice of W. W. Heard for Moderator, J. D. Hamilton, Clerk, and J. M. Smith, Treasurer. While the tellers were counting out the votes the privilege of the floor was granted to Eld. R. M. Boone, the editor of the "Chronicle," to represent his paper. 10. The several officers elected accepted. Hon. W. W. Heard making appropriate remarks and taking the chair as Moderator. 11. On motion of J. W. Melton, the order of business of last year be adopted for this, with the exception of the election of a treasurer. 12. On a call for the reading of the letters from the various churches Brethren J. W. Melton, J. R. Edwards and G. A. Bruton were appointed as reading clerks. Letters were read from all the churches sending delegates which will be found by reference to report of committee on credentials. 13. Visiting brethren invited to seats. 14. Petitionary letters called for. In response Mt. Vernon and Mt. Union placed theirs upon the table. The letters being read on motion of J. P. Everett, the two churches were received, the Moderator extending to their delegates the hand of welcome and recognition, and ordered their names enrolled. 15. The moderator appointed the following committees: On religious Exercises -- Samuel Smith, Samuel Kerlin, Pastor J. R. Edwards, Deacon S. W. Ramsey, Bro. B. F. Pleasant. On Documents and Publications -- S. P. Leggett, J. M. Stallings, J. M. Cook, T. G. Guice, James McAdams. On State Missions -- J. R. Edwards, S. N. Camp, A. Kitchens, T. T. Porter, W. H. K. Martin. On Foreign Missions -- J. C. Jones, T. J. Humble, E. J. Lee, R. J. Tabor, A. H. Colvin. On Home Missions -- J. W. Melton, J. M. Roddy, W. M. Ledbetter, W. H. Garthright, Jesse Odom. On Nominations -- H. H. Ward, E. Parks, D. W. Hollis, A. T. Fuller, James Burns. On Education -- C. E. Foster, G. A. Bruton, S. Welch, C. King, C. H. Raley. On Sabbath Schools-- J. D. Hamilton, J. M. White, J. M. Hunt, L. B. Abbett, J. A. Mitchell. On Temperance--A. J. Callaway, S. R. Nolan, J. Abbott, J. M. Thurman, W. J. Smith. On Deceased Ministers--D. L. Hicks, M. H. Thornton, P. Moore, W. O. Bearden. On Finance--J. F. Peterson, J. M. Moncrieff, S. P. Lewis, W. A. Stone. Report of Committee on Religious Exercises. 16. Tonight--Session of Association at Baptist Church; preaching at Methodist Church by Rev. D. L. Hicks. Sunday--Mass meeting in interest of State Missions at both churches at 10 o'clock a.m.; at the Baptist Church conducted by Bro. Tompkies, at the Methodist Church by Bro. Harrell. At 3 o'clock p.m.--Mass meeting in the interest of Foreign Missions at the Baptist Church, conducted by Bro. Melton. Sunday night--Preaching at the Baptist Church by Bro. Wharton, of Arkansas; at the Methodist Church by Bro. C. King, of Kansas. J. R. Edwards, B. F. Pleasant, S. Kerlin, Samuel Smith. 17. On motion of J. W. Melton, the Association adjourned until 8 o'clock p.m. Benediction by Rev. C. W. Tompkies. NIGHT SESSION. 18. After singing several songs and prayer by Eld. J. C. Jones, the Association was called to order, Moderator Heard presiding. 19. In response to a call for correspondents, it was found that Rev. G. W. Harrell from Red River Association, Rev. John Talbert from Bethlehem Association, Rev. J. U. H. Wharton, J. M. Gathright and M. P. Newson, of Liberty, Ark., Association, Rev. C. W. Tompkies, Corresponding Secretary State Board; Rev. R. M. Boone, editor of the Chronicle and Representative of Louisiana Association; Elds. Prince Jones and Will Grey, of Gum Spring (col.) Association were present. 20. On motion of Eld. J. P. Everett, these colored brethren were provided with seats in the rear end of the house. 21. On a call for the Treasurer's report, on motion of J. W. Melton who stated that "since our last session our beloved Treasurer Ramsey had died, that brethren be appointed as a committee to make up his report for him." -- Committee J. D. Hamilton, E. L. Clark and J. L. Winberry. Report of Committee on Sabbath Schools. 22. The three grand and absorbing interests of this Association are Missions, Temperance, and the Sabbath School -- these three -- and not the least of these is the Sabbath School. Your committee will assert that without a properly conducted Sabbath School, in which the evils of intemperance, and the grace of giving, is taught and instilled in the hearts and minds of the children, that in course time the other two interests may languish, dwindle and die. In the youths of our land is the promise of the advancement in Christ's kingdom on earth. To them, ere long, will be committee the moralization and enlightenment of the world. Shall we heed the injunction, "train up a child in the way he shall go," "remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy?" In what better way can we do these things than to assist in carrying out the Sabbath School in its present well arranged and attractive system. Aside from the preaching of the Gospel by God's appointed ministers, we believe there is no instrumentality, with God's blessing, that will work no mightily in revolutionizing the world from its depths of degradation, vice and immorality. The great hindering cause that impedes the progress of this god-given institution, that would place us on a higher standard of intelligent Christianity, is neglect and indifference; and, in many cases, downright laziness on the part of parents, even those who are members of the church, claiming to be disciples of the blesses Master who said, "Go and teach." Brethren, if we are Christians we should be honest -- honest with ourselves and faithful to perform every known duty, willing to be guided and directed by the influence of the Blessed Spirit. Then, if you haven't yet tried it, ask the guidance of the Holy Spirit to direct you in this matter; and we dare say if you can keep out of the Sabbath School, you are the exception. J. D. Hamilton For the Committee. 23. Remarks on this question by J. D. Hamilton and J. R. Edwards. At this moment, on motion of C. E. Foster, speeches be limited to ten minutes. Motion lost. Further remarks by T. J. Humble. 24. Eld. J. R. Edwards made a forcible and pointed speech on the Sabbath School question. He said, "The Sabbath School is the church at work, and a church that will not work to advance God's kingdom is entitled to no place in His kingdom, and he who always wants to receive and never has anything to give or to do, might well question the genuineness of his conversion." 25. On motion of J. W. Melton, the Association now adjourn until 8"30 a.m. Monday. SABBATH DAY'S PROCEEDINGS 26. As directed by the committee on religious exercises, at 10 o'clock a.m. at the Baptist Church, Eld. C. W. Tompkies conducted the mass meeting in the interest of State Missions. He selected for his speakers Elds. R. M. Boone, J. P. Everett and J. W. Melton, each of whom made strong and earnest appeals in behalf of this work. About this hour (11) there was considerable confusion; the house having been filled from the beginning, the ladies came in by twos, tens and scores, looking very complacent at first, and maintaining their composure and dignity until they, with their escorts, and surveyed a house packed like sardines. Then a perceptible change o'er spread their hitherto lovely faces, when they began to make rather an indecorous retreat. The spectacle was sad, confusion run wild, 'Till man the sluggard vacated, then woman smiled. The indomitable Tompkies with his sonorous voice, after many interruptions, finally caught the ear of his congregation, and in his usual forcible style presented the claims of State Missions, and he made, I believe, a satisfactory collection, considering the ladies were present, and the men outside had the pocket books. 27. The following is a list of names and amounts contributed: Pledged Cash Everett & Everett $10 M. P. Newsom $5 James Burns 1 J. M. Cook 5 J. R. Fuller 20 G. A. Killgore 5 J. M. Smith 10 J. P. Everett 5 Miss Dettie Everett 3 B. F. Grafton 5 E. P. Bolton 5 S. W. Ramsey 5 Mr. J. G. Davis 2.50 J. A. Manning 5 Miss Etta Everett 1 Mineral Springs Church 3.15 S. A. Hammons 1 T. H. McFadden 5 Mrs. J. A. Manning 1 P. Moore 5 Mrs. W. H. Kennedy 2.50 J. C. Jones 1 Mrs. J. K. Atkinson 2.50 Jesse Robert 5 R. J. Tabor 5 G. F. McKenzie 5 W. M. Crow 1 C. E. Foster 5 S. P. Lewis 5 J. F. Peterson 2 J. U. H. Wharton 5 L. E. Thomas 2.50 J. H. Winberry 1 E. H. Hodges 1 J. W. Maxey 1 J. E. Gill 2.50 Mr. J. G. Taylor 1 S. Kerlin 5 J. C. Pryor 2 Sister Thomas 5 Mrs. M. E. Lewis 2 J. C. Rockett 1 J. P. Abbott 2 Cash .25 Miss Emma Tabor 1 Mrs. M. A. Callaway 1 Mrs. Alice Frellson 1 J. D. Hamilton 5 Mrs. O. H. Thompson 1 Mrs. J. M. Smith 5 Miss Rachel Atkinson 2.50 Miss Rebecca Dozier 2 Miss Alice Smith 1 W. G. Simmons 1 Misc. Contributions 13.05 TOTAL $203.45 Eld. C. E. Foster conducted the services at the Methodist Church and received the following contributions and pledges: Pledged Cash J. R. Edwards $10 J. M. Stallings $5 S. P. Leggett 5 P. O. Roach 2 H. H. Ward 5 Phil Bearden 1 Miscellaneous 3.15 TOTAL $31.15 Rev. R. M. Boone, holding services in the Masonic grove, collected in cash $11.20. Total at the three places, $245.80. 28. After the several services, and about one o'clock, everybody with an intentive sense, was seen wending their way to the Masonic grove--and there must have been about three thousand of us--where specious tables well laden with the best of everything, greeted our coming. We partook. Your scribe here lost the chain of his observations. 29. At 3 o'clock Eld. J. W. Melton conducted the services at the Baptist Church in the interest of Foreign Missions, he was ably aided by Eld. J. P. Everett and J. M. White. The following were the contributions made to this mission: Pledged Cash Everett & Everett $15 J. R. Edwards $10 J. R. Fuller 10 W. W. Heard 5 J. W. Melton 10 Mrs. S. S. Thomas 5 B. F. Pleasant 5 J. M. Stallings 2 S. N. Camp 1 C. King 1 Dettie Everett 2 J. O. Buckley 1 Mrs. Langston 1 D. L. Hicks 1 R. J. Tabor 2.50 T. T. Porter 1 T. M. Heard 5 R. Nolan 1 J. M. White 10 D. H. Hodges 1 J. Abbott & Wife 8 R. Patrick .50 D. B. Henderson 2 H. W. Parlmer 1 Ralph Colvin 1 Mr. Carter 1 C. F. Autry 1 Ladies Aid Society Miss Etta Everett .50 (Farmerville) 5 Miss Emma Tabor .50 J. W. Nichols 1 Miss Millie Pickel 1 Cash Paid 3.80 H. G. Chapman 5 TOTAL $115.80 MONDAY'S PROCEEDINGS 30. The Association was called to order at 8"30 a.m., Moderator Heard in the chair. Prayer by Eld. C. H. Raley. Report of Committee on Treasurer's Account 31. Your committee to whom was referred the matter of the settlement of our beloved deceased treasurer J. A. Ramsey's account, would respectfully report, on investigation we find: DEBITS To amount received by him from finance committee of 1887 $69.65 To amount on hand balance of previous years, 1886 3.90 To amount received from Mt. Tabor Church, credit on his books .75 Total amount $74.30 CREDITS By amount paid for printing minutes $42.50 By amount paid J. D. Hamilton, Clerk 30.00 Total amount $72.50 72.50 Balance due by him $1.80 J. D. Hamilton Respectfully E. L. Clark J. L. Minberry Report of Committee on Documents and Publications 32. Your committee submit the following report: From an examination of the church letters we are truly gratified to report so many precious revivals in a number of churches. Peace and harmony prevail in the churches. The Sabbath School work in the Association is on the increase. More work is being done in that direction now than ever before. There were reported last year 227 baptisms, present year, 280. Two churches were received by petitionary. We recommend that study of the scriptures above all other works, that we be made wise unto salvation. We most earnestly request of the Baptist brotherhood the importance of sustaining our State organ, "The Baptist Chronicle," published at Shreveport, La., and edited by Eld. R. M. Boone. We believe the paper to be a necessity in our State work. We ought to sustain it. Its success depends upon your patronage. We also recommend the "Foreign Mission Journal," published at Richmond. Shiloh Church petitions for the next session of this Association. S. P. Leggett, Respectfully submitted, J. M. Stallings, T. G. Guice, J. M. Cook. Remarks by J. M. Stallings, J. R. Edwards, W. G. Simmone, G. W. Harrell, J. W. Melton, C. King, C. W. Tompkies. On motion of J. M. Stallings, speeches from this time on be limited to ten minutes. Remarks continued by Eld. R. M. Boone. Report of Committee on State Missions 33. We, your committee on State Missions, report encouraging progress in the work. During the last year our State Board has had under its employ 23 missionaries. Some new churches have been organized, 552 conversions reported, total added under missionary labor 786. There has been a deep interest awakened in the work. But the vastness of the destitution, and the unparalleled success that we are having in that part of the field we have been able to occupy, calls for a deeper interest on the part of the churches, more consecrated men in the field and more money to support them. There are eight and a half parishes in Bayou Macon Association destitute, five in Ouachita, and twenty-seven entire parishes in the State without a Baptist preacher or a Baptist church. There are more than twenty towns without preaching -- some of them are important centers of four and five thousand inhabitants. The French speaking people of our State are calling for the Gospel. We learn from Bro. Timpkies, Corresponding Secretary of the State Board, that the Home Board will appropriate $5,000 to our State. The Convention desires $12,500 this year for our work. $10,000 of this will be needed for our State. Your committee think that this Association ought to and can raise $2,000 of the needed amount. We do not present the great needs of the field as the only plea for the money, but would urge that our very success calls loudly for increased contributions. We, therefore, urge that an earnest effort be made by pastors and laymen in all the churches to raise this amount during the year. We are glad to report on increase in contributions, and a gradual improvement in this direction among the churches. But, brethren, let us go up higher. God has given us the opportunity, let us grasp it, and whatever our hands find to do, let us do it with our might. J. R. Edwards, T. T. Porter, S. N. Camp, A. Kitchens. Remarks by J. R. Edwards, J. P. Everett and C. W. Tompkies. Bro. Tompkies being the representative of the State Board asked for pledges to the State Mission work, to be paid between now and the meeting of the State Convention in July next. The following Pledges were made: Concord $25; Liberty (Union) $25; Meridian $15; Farmerville $50; Zion Hill $5; Beulah $10; Camp Creek $20; Canaan $5; Paron $15; Bethel $5; Rocky Springs $75; Oak Grove $10; Sharon $9; Hebron $25; Mt. Olive $10; Mt. Tabor $15; Pisgah $15; Shiloh $100; Antioch $20; Summerfield $10; New Hope $50; Fellowship $50; New Prospect $20; Vienna $5; Providence $5; Culbertson $5; Mineral Springs (Lincoln) $25; Liberty (Ouachita) $10; Union $50; Mt. Union $7.50; Mt. Vernon $5; Ladies Aid Society of Farmerville $10; Total $706.50. Report of Committee on Foreign Missions 34. Your committee on Foreign Missions submit the following report: The work of missions in heathen lands has never been more prosperous than at the present time in all parts where the faithful missionary has gone with the gospel message. The time was when access to heathen lands was and dangerous, and the missionary went at the risk of his life, and the heathen heart seemed equally barred against the light of the gospel, years of toil and suffering and but little fruit, yet they labored and prayed and hoped even against hope. And today we see the result of their unfaltering faith in God's promises, and today all lands are open for the reception of the gospel, and it is shown that the heathen, in his blindness and his love of idolatry, can be enlightened and his heart made to love the name of Jesus. From every mission of the Southern Baptist Convention in foreign lands, progress is reported, and the cry from all is, send us more consecrated men and women to reap down the fields already white unto the harvest. We have not at hand the statistics to give the progress in detail of the several mission stations for the last year, but we learn from the reports in the Foreign Mission Journal that it is very satisfactory. Two or three of the missionaries have died, Dr. M. T. Yates of the China mission and Mrs. Graves and Bro. Hanex. Bro. J. M. Joiner had to return home on account of failing health. Others must take their places, and the work needs to be enlarged there as well as in every field now occupied. The Board will need enlarged contributions to sustain missions and also for the building of church houses. As the necessities are increased our hearts should be enlarged and our contributions increased. The Board asked of the Baptists of the State last year $1,250, and we paid something over the amount. We are asked this year for $2,000 from our State. Brethren, we can raise it, and your committee urges that there be an earnest effort not to fall below it. Let us follow the spirit and letter of the Scripture, and increase more and more until the desert places shall blossom as the rose, and the kingdom of this world shall become the kingdom of the Lord and his Christ. A. H. Colvin, J. C. Jones, Respectfully Submitted, E. J. Lee, R. J. Tabor, T. J. Humble. Remarks by J. C. Jones, A. H. Colvin and G. W. Harrell. Bro. Colvin entered largely in the history of mission work. He says: "Take from me everything else but leave me the mission spirit." Bro. Harrell made a grand speech on this subject. The following pledges were made: Concord $5; Liberty (Union) $5; Meridian $5; Farmerville $25; Zion Hill $2.50; Beulah $8; Camp Creek $5; Paron $2.50; Rocky Springs $25; Sharon $5.50; Hebron $5; Pisgan $5; Shiloh $50; Mt. Tabor $5; Antioch $6.75 (of this cash was paid, $4.25); Summerfield $5; New Hope $30; Fellowship $20; New Prospect $5; Vienna $2; Culbertson $2.50; Liberty (Ouachita) $5; Union $25; Mt. Union $2.50; Mt. Vernon $5; Mineral Springs (Lincoln) $25; Ladies Aid Society of Downsville $10; Downsville Sunday School $2.50; Ladies Aid Society of Shiloh $5; Farmerville Sunday School $2.50; Fellowship Sunday School $1.50; Prince Jones (col.) $2.50; Miscellaneous cash, $6.55; Ladies Aid Society of Farmerville, cash, $5. Total $322.80. 35. Adjourned to 1:30 p.m. Prayer by Eld. J. W. Melton. EVENING SESSION 36. song--"Jesus Lover of My Soul" and prayer of Eld. C. King, Moderator Heard presiding. 37. Bro. R. J. tabor made a motion to limit the speeches this evening to five minutes. Eld. King raised the point that the motion was not in order. The Moderator sustained the point. Report of Committee on Home Missions 38. Your committee on Home Missions submit the following: The Home Board of the Southern Baptist Convention is doing a grand work in giving the gospel to the destitute in our Home field. Last year the Board had in its employ 287 missionaries in the Southern States, Indian Territory and Cuba. The Board is contributing largely to our help in Louisiana. Three thousand dollars is given to the city of New Orleans and two thousand to the State at large, to be used in paying missionaries. In speaking of the work in Cuba, and of the grand and glorious results that are being accomplished in the Queen of the Antilles, through the preaching of the gospel, and while the Board rejoices in this work, it says, "that other interests committed to its charge are of equal, not to say greater, importance than its mission in Cuba." We cannot resist the impression that New Orleans is as important as Havana, and Louisiana as Cuba. The Board, being so deeply interested in the evangelization of our own State, calls loudly to us for support. It should have our sympathies, our prayers and our money to sustain it in its noble work. You committee recommend to the brethren of the Association of the Home Field, published by the Home Mission Board at Atlanta, Ga. J. W. Melton, W. H. Gathright, J. M. Rody, W. M. Ledbetter, Jesse Odom, Jr. Remarks by J. W. Melton and C. W. Tompkies. On motion of J. W. Melton, the report of Education be deferred and that of Deceased Ministers be now read. Report of Committee on Deceased Ministers 39. We, your committee on Deceased Ministers, beg leave to report that we find the Association has lost be one ordained minister, the lamented S. T. Cobb, our Moderator, who presided over us with dignity and Christian love for over 20 years. We feel that in the loss of Bro. Cobb this Association has lost one of her best officers, the community one of the best expounders of the gospel, the Parish of Union a valuable citizen, his church a devoted pastor, his family a devoted and loving husband and father. But brethren, our loss is his eternal gain. "Blessed are they that die in the Lord; yea saith the spirit, they rest from their labors, and their works do follow them." Let this Association, with grateful hearts, cherish the memory of our deceased Moderator. He lived an exemplary life, with an unceasing devotion to his Master's work, from early manhood to the ripe old age of seventy-two. Let us as a body extend to his bereaved family our sympathy, and our prayers. Brother Cobb departed this life on the 11th of January, 1888. Your committee beg further to make honorable mention of Brothers J. A. Ramsey, Esq., and Licentiate J. N. Furgerson, both of whom came to untimely and violent deaths, in the prime of life and usefulness. The former, a deacon of Farmerville church and Superintendent of her Sabbath School, a leading worker in our Association, a leading jurist in our District. Alas! Our brother, we miss you. The later was a deacon and Licentiate, he came to his death by an unknown assassin on the highway. Both of these brethren leave families, wives with bleeding hearts and little orphan children, to mourn their untimely end. May God, the father of the orphan and husband to the widow, temper the wind to his shorn lambs, in this his inscrutable providence, is the prayer of your committee. Submitted by the Committee Remarks on the lives and virtues of our deceased, while the whole congregation were in tears, were made by D. L. Hicks, J. P. Everett, C. H. Raley, A. J. Callaway, J. C. Jones, W. G. Simmons, C. E. Foster, J. M. White, and others attempted but their voices failed them. At this moment Eld. J. P. Everett was called on and led in a very feeling prayer. On motion of J. D. Hamilton, two pages of our minutes -- one to each of our beloved deceased Cobb and Ramsey -- be dedicated and set apart to their memory. On motion of J. P. Everett, a committee of three brethren be appointed to solicit funds, and to superintend the erection of a monument over the remains of Rev. S. T. Cobb -- Committee J. W. Melton, J. M. White and B. F. Pleasant. On motion, Eld. J. U. H. Wharton be requested to co-operate with this committee. IN MEMORY OF S A M U E L T. C O B B, Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Born in Tuskaloosa County, Ala., August 21, 1817, Died at his home in Union Parish, La., January 12, 1888. ______________________ Married November, 1837: Ordained May, 1848 Served as pastor to: Brushy Creek, Spring Hill, Rehobath, Hopewell And Hillsboro, Ark.; Spearsville, Farmerville, Meridian, Spring Hill, Canaan, Mt. Olive, Camp Creek, Zion Hill, Bethel, Hebron, Pleasant Hill and Beulah, La. Served as Moderator to LIBERTY, ARK., & CONCORD, LA., ASSOCIATIONS For 28 Years. ____________________________ He fought a good fight, he finished his course, he kept the faith; Henceforth there is laid up for him a crown of righteousness Which the Lord, the Righteous Judge, shall give him. TO THE MEMORY OF J A M E S A. R A M S E Y, Born in Union Parish, La., March 9, 1852. Departed this life in Farmerville, La., December 19, 1887. ___________________________ Was baptized into the fellowship of Spearsville Church in early life. Married to Theodosia McFarland January, 1878. Was Deacon of Farmerville Church and a most efficient Super- intendent of her Sabbath School; was Treasurer of Concord Association, and one of her most zealous and able workers. Was a liberal contributor to every good cause, uncompromising in his opposition to evil in any shape, was learned in the law and bid fair to make a statesman and jurist of which Louisiana might justly have been proud. ____________________________ Blessed are they that die in the Lord for their works do follow them. PEACE BE TO HIS ASHES. Report of Committee on Education 40. We, your committee, report as follows: In view of the need of more complete and efficient system of education in our State; and, especially, in view of the great necessity of a more systematic, prayerful and liberal support to our own institutions in our midst--having in view the mental and moral training of young men, who are to be our ministers: we, therefore, recommend to our brethren and the churches composing this Association, that we take higher grounds in the matters of education among us. There has been marked improvements in our educational work in the State; yet there may be greater heights attained in this work, which has in view the glory of God and the salvation of men. "Go teach all nations" implies regeneration, native ability, discipline, and an aptness to teach or disciple all nations. We have two educational institutions -- Mt. Lebanon and Keachie -- with professors and all the means of mental and moral culture. We, therefore, recommend these schools to the patronage of our fellow-citizens and brethren, in the interest of saving time and means for more efficient work in the State and to the Baptist Churches of Louisiana. It is advisable to educate our own young ministers at home, for we often lose them to our State. We therefore emphasize the great need of patronizing our own schools, and keep them among us to labor for us. C. E. Foster, G. A. Bruton, S. Welch, E. C. King, C. H. Railey. Remarks by C. King, G. W. Harrell and C. W. Tompkies. The following amounts were contributed for the purpose of paying board at Mt. Lebanon College: To Bro. W. D. Gaskins--J. T. Davis cash $10; J. R. Edwards cash $10; W. W. Heard cash $5; J. D. Hamilton cash $10; Prince James (col.) cash $1; B. F. Pleasant cash $2.50; Concord Church cash $2.50; J. L. Matthews cash $1; J. M. Lee, Jr. cash $2.50; Pledged -- Union Church $2.50; New Hope $10; Ladies Aid Society of Farmerville $5; Shiloh Church $10; Liberty (Union) $5; Sister Thomas $5; Farmerville Church $5; Minden Church by G. W. Harrell $10; Providence $2.50; Ladies Aid Society of Fellowship $5. (NOTE:--The cash was turned over to Rev. C. W. Tompkies.) (NOTE:--At the request of J. M. Stalling it is stated that Vienna Church paid her $5 subscription to State Missions last year.) . . . (Pages 21 & 22 are lost.) . . . Resolutions as Offered by Eld. J. M. White 46. RESOLVED, That the Clerk be instructed to have 800 copies of the minutes printed and distributed among the churches of this Association, and that he be authorized to draw on the Treasurer for the amount necessary to pay for same, and that he have $30 for his service. 47. RESOLVED, That the Association tender our sincere thanks to the brethren and sisters of the Farmerville Church and community for the kind and hospitable manner in which they have entertained this Association during its present session, and to the Methodists for the use of their house. Resolution as Offered by Eld. J. R. Edwards 48. RESOLVED, That we organize a Baptist Sunday School Convention within the bounds of Concord Association, to be composed of delegates sent by the churches and Sunday Schools upon the same basis that we send delegates to the Association; and that the Moderator appoint a committee of three to arrange program, time and place for a meeting, to be held in November next. 49. Committee to arrange for Sabbath School Convention--J. R. Edwards, W. W. Heard, and J. M. White. 50. After song and extending the parting hand and prayer by J. W. Melton, the Association adjourned to meet with Shiloh Church on Friday night before the 3rd Sabbath in September, A. D. 1889. J. D. Hamilton, Clerk W. W. Heard, Moderator NOTE This Association was one of the best we have ever had, well attended by delegates and visitors. With such visitors as Brethren Harrell, Tompkies, Boone, Wharton and others, the success of the Association is very materially enhanced. Come again, brethren. The brethren of Farmerville did nobly in entertaining the Association, they had the best arrangement for dinner we have yet seen -- a beautiful shady grove with the largest and most substantial tables and seats every where about to rest on; they clubbed tighter and barbecued their meats -- that's extra! A suggestion -- Let's have a committee to report on the state of the churches, which committee can mention any important fact communicated in the letters, and save the patience of every body in reading so many letters that are so much alike. This committee with the committee on credentials and the Clerk to get the statistics will bring out all that is in the letters that is not monotonous; this is what every body says, and it must be right. Still, brother clerks, write your letters full and complete; read Art. 5 just before you write and get in all that is required, you ought to. Clerk (At the request of Eld. C. W. Tompkies, please send contributions for State, Home and Foreign Missions, also Educational, to Geo. A. Turner, Shreveport, La.) Column 1 -- Churches Column 2 -- Baptized Column 3 -- Restored Column 4 -- Received by Letter Column 5 -- Received by Voucher Column 6 -- Dismissed by Letter Column 7 -- Excluded Column 8 -- Deceased Column 9 -- Number of Females Column 10 -- Number of Males Column 11 -- Total in Fellowship Column 12 -- Number of Minutes Column 13 -- Sabbath of Meeting 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 First District Concord 1 3 2 54 28 82 16 2nd Liberty (Union) 3 1 1 3 2 2 54 42 107 21 4th Meridian 11 6 3 77 16 1st Farmerville 3 3 1 71 39 110 22 3rd Zion Hill 2 1 2 41 14 55 16 4th Beulah 3 2 24 29 52 21 --- Camp Creek 7 1 2 11 6 42 27 69 21 2nd Spearsville 1 2 12 33 15 48 16 1st Pleasant Hill 2 5 6 2 24 15 29 14 2nd Canaan 5 1 11 9 20 11 4th Shady Grove 15 8 23 8 3rd Paron 7 4 8 1 2 25 10 35 7 --- Bethel 7 1 39 36 75 22 3rd Mt. Union 13 1 4 1 34 17 3rd 2nd District Rocky Springs 3 2 5 1 2 76 50 126 41 2 & 4 Oak Grove 1 3 7 12 19 16 2nd Sharon 7 6 21 2 58 35 93 31 2nd Hebron 1 58 37 95 21 1st Mt. Olive 3 1 3 2 1 43 29 72 21 2nd Pisgah 2 2 6 1 64 37 110 21 3rd Shiloh 10 3 3 123 74 197 51 1 & 3 Mt. Tabor 2 2 6 2 2 20 9 29 8 4th Antioch 2 2 4 1 1 30 19 49 21 3rd Summerfield 1 1 1 21 12 33 26 4th 3rd District New Hope 8 3 7 10 8 118 80 198 31 2 & 4 Fellowship 57 8 1 2 120 104 224 51 2 & 4 New Prospect 17 1 4 7 2 43 40 83 27 3rd Sardis 3 2 2 2 2 41 38 79 14 2nd Providence 19 2 8 7 1 65 48 113 14 1st Vienna 6 1 1 1 9 9 18 16 3rd Culbertson 11 1 1 7 3 2 2 33 30 63 26 1st 4th District Mineral Springs 9 3 49 43 92 16 3rd (Lin) Liberty (Oua) 3 2 5 2 28 20 48 16 2nd Union 50 2 17 2 7 2 1 88 70 158 56 1st Mt. Ararat 1 1 1 3 1 24 10 34 2 4th Mt. Vernon 1 5 2 22 16 38 34 4th Cuba 12 2 --- ?asley 2 --- Mineral Springs (Oua) 2 --- ########################################################################