JOURNAL OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
THIRTY-FOURTH ANNUAL CONVENTION
-
OF THE
Protestant Episcopal Church,
IN THE
DIOCESE OF GEORGIA,
Held in St. James' Church, Marietta., commencing May 8,1856.
' w*
SAVANNAH, GA.,
fieoi-cje % flicW*, ]ob Sook £h'r)fei\
1856.
Robert W. Woodruff
Library
Boles Collection
special collections
emory university
JOURNAL OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
THIRTY-FOURTH ANNUAL CONVENTION
OF THE
Protestant Episcopal Church,
IN THE
DIOCESE OF GEORGIA,
Held in St. James' Church, Marietta, commencing May 8,1856.
■ ' »@»c ■■
SAVANNAH, GA.,
&eohje K. WcMs, W 90^ SooK ^Scioteir.
1856.
LIST OF THE CLERGY
OF THE
D j 0 G E S E 0 I' G E 0 R 0 1 4 .
o
The Right Rev. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, D. I)., Bishop of
the Diocese of Georgia, and Rector of Christ Church,
Savannah.
*BARTOW, THEODORE B., Chaplain of the Naval Acade¬
my, Annapolis, Maryland.
BRAGG, SENECA G., Residing in Macon.
BROWN, EDMUND P., Rector of Christ Church, St. Si¬
mon's and St. David's, Glynn.
CLARK, GEO. H., Rector of St. John's Church, Savannah.
CLARKE, WM. H., Rector of St. Peter's Church, Rome.
"FIELDING, JOHN, Principal of College, Beaufort, S. C.
FORD, EDW'D E.,D. D., Rector of St. Paul's Church, Au¬
gusta.
GEHAGHAN, W. P., Rector of Zion Church, Talbotton.
*GEORGE, J. H., Rector of St. Paul's Church, Albany.
HABERSHAM, B. E., Rector of St. James' Church, Marietta.
HARRISON, W. H., Rector of the Church of the Atonement,
Augusta.
HAWKS, WM. N., Rector of Trinity Church, Columbus.
HUNT, JOHN J., Residing in Marietta.
JOHNSON, RICHARD, Rector of St. Philip's Church, At¬
lanta.
♦KENNERLY, S. W., Missionary to the Negroes in Savan¬
nah and the adjacent plantations.
MACAULEY, GEO. W., Rector of St. Stephen's Church,
Milledgeville.
•Not present at Convention.
4
MACAULEY, REV. MR., Deacon.
*NEELY, JOHN, Residing in Augusta.
PINKERTON, SAMUEL J., Rector of Gra.-e Church,
Clarksville, and St. Andrew's, Darien.
PRYSE, JOHN T., City Missionary in Savannah.
REES, H. K., Rector of Christ Church, Macon.
WILLIAMS, W. C., Missionary to the Negroes on the Ogee-
chee River, P. 0. Savannah.
*Not present at Convention.
LIST OF LAY DELEGATES
OF THE
THIRTY-FOURTH ANNUAL CONVENTION
OF THE
btocege of georgia.
o
Christ Church, Savannah— *r. r. cuyler,
*geo. a. gordon,
*e. c. hough.
St. Paul's Church, rfugtista— *e. F. campbell,
*benj. conley,
g. Mclaughlin.
Christ Church, Macon— l. n. whittle,
*hon. a. h. chappell,
j. s. hutton.
Trinity Church, Columbus— h. hall,
h. v. meigs,
*rob't g. murdoch.
St. John's Church, Savannah— j. r. wilder.
St. 'Andrew's Church, Darien— p. m. nightingale,
*chas. spalding,
*wm. cook.
St. David's Church, Glynn— *h. f. grant,
*b. troup, m. d.
St. James' Church, Marietta— j. mongin smith,
wm. root,
thos. s. stewardson.
Emanuel Church, Jlthens— e. k. clark,
*wm. l. brown,
james camak, m. d.
*Not present at Convention,
6
St. Peter's Church, Rome— *RICHARD PETERS,
*WM. JOHNSON,
T. S. DENNY, M. D.
S. B. OATMAN,
H. B. WETON.
St. Paul's Charck, Albany— WM. C. CONNELLY.
St. Peter's Church, Rome— STEPHEN M. WILSON,
LEWIS D. BURWELL,
*JOHN W. NOBLE.
Church of the Atonement, Au¬
gusta— R. H. GARDINER, Jr.,
*CHAS. DWELLE,
* JOSEPH W. CLARK.
*Not present at Convention.
JOURNAL
St. James Church, Marietta, >
May 8th, 1856. S
This being the time and place appointed for holding the
Thirty-Fourth Jlnnual Convention of the Protestant
Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Georgia,
The order of Morning Prayer, as far as the Creed, was
read by the Rev. Mr. Habersham, assisted by the Rev. Mr.
Williams. The Creed together with the Prayers, were read
by the Bishop. The Convention Sermon was preached by
the Rev. Geo. H. Clark, Rector of St. John's Church, Sa¬
vannah, from 1st Timothy, iv. 16.
After the Sermon the Convention was called to order by
the Bishop. The roll of Clergy being called, the following
answered to their names :
Rt. Rev. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, D. D., Bishop.
Rev. Seneca G. Bragg, Rev. Wm. N. Hawks,
Rev. Edmund P. Brown, Rev. John J. Hunt,
Rev. Geo. H. Clark, Rev. Richard Johnson,
Rev. Edw'd E. Ford, D. D., Rev. George Macaulet,
Rev. W. P. Gehaghan, Rev. S. J. Pinkerton,
Rev. B. Elliott Habersham, Rev. H. K. Rees,
Rev. Wm. C. Williams.
Certificates ot the election of Lay Delegates were present¬
ed and read.
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of the follow¬
ing gentlemen, viz Rev. Dr. Ford, and the Rev. Messrs.
Hunt and Habersham.
The committee reported the following in due form:
8
Christ Church, Savannah—R. R. Cuyler, Geo. A. Gordon,
E. C. Hough.
St. Paul's Church, Augusta—E. F. Campbell, Benj. Con-
ly, G. McLaughlin.
Christ Church, Macon—L. N. Whittle. A. H. Chappell,
J. S. Hutton.
Trinity Church, Columbus—Hervey Hall, Rob't G.Mur¬
doch, H. V. Meigs.
St. James' Church, Marietta—5. Mongin Smith, Wm.
Root, Thos. Stewardson, M. D.
St. Andrew's Church, DarOn—P. M. Nightingale, Wm.
Cook, Chas. Spaulding.
St. David's Church, Glynn—H. F. Grant, B. Troup, M. D.
St. Paul's Church, Albany—Wm. C. Connelly.
St. John's Church, Savannah—J. R. Wilder.
St. Philip's Church, Atlanta—Richard Peters, Wm. John¬
son, T. S. Denny, M. D.
Emanuel Church, Athens—E. K. Clarke.
The roll of the Lay Delegates being called, the following
answered to their names, viz:—Messrs. G. McLaughlin, J. S.
Hutton, Wm. Root, Thos. Stewardson, J. R. Wilder, E. K.
Clark.
There being a quorum of both Orders present, the Bishop
declared the Convention duly organized
The Secretary, the Rev. H. K Rees, declining a re-election,
the Rev. Wm. C. Williams was elected Secretary.
On motion of the Rev. Dr. Ford, it was
Resolved, That the Rules of order of the last Convention be adopted for the
government of this Convention.
The Rev. Dr. E. E. Ford, offered the following resolution,
which was adopted:
Resolved, That Clergymen of other Dioceses and Candidates for Holy Orders,
who may be present, be invited to seats in this Convention.
Mr. Macauley, a candidate for Orders in this DLoceke, took
his seat. ,• , ~\h<
The following Committees were appaintei^ bw;ihffiBishon •
9
On the State of the Church—Rev. E. E. Ford, D. D., Rev.
Messrs. S. G.Bragg, E. P. Bi 'own.
On the Jldmistion of New Parishes—Rev. Mr. Haber¬
sham, Messrs. G. McLaughlin, J. S. Hutton.
On Unfinished Business—Rev. Mr. Johnson, Rev. Mr.
Rees.
On motion of Rev. Mr. Habersham, the following resolution
was adopted:
Resolved, That there he but one Session of this Convention each day during its
continuance, and that the hour of Adjournment bo 3 o'clock, P. M.
After Prayer by the Bishop, the Convention adjourned to
hour of Public Worship to-morrow morning.
At. night, Evening Prayer was read by the Rev. H. K. Rees,
and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Ford.
Friday, May Vth, 1856.
Morning Prayer was read by the Rev. E. P. Brown, and a
Sermon preached by the Rev. Wm. H. Clarke.
After Public Worship, the Convention was calied to order
and the roll called.
Clergy present as yesterday, with the addition of Rev.
Messrs. Wm. H. Clarke, Wm. H. Harrison, and John T. Pryse.
Laity present as yesterday, with the addition of Messrs.
Whittle, J. Mongin Smith, H. V. Meigs.
Minutes of yesterday were read and confirmed.
Certificates of Election of Lay Delegates were presented
from Emanuel Church, Athens, The Church of the Atone¬
ment, Augusta, and from St. Peter's Church, Rome. Also, a
Certificate from the Rector of St. Philip's Church, Atlanta,
appointing a Delegate under the IV7. Art. of the Constitution.
The above certificates were referred to the Committee on
Elections, who reported the following in due form :
Emanuel Church, Jithens—VVm. L. Brown, James Ca-
mak, M. D.
%
10
Church of the Atonement, Augusta—R. II. Gardiner, Jr.,
Charles Dwelle, and Joseph W. Clark.
St. Peter's Church, Rome—Stephen M. Wilson, Lewis D.
Burwell, and John W. Noble.
St. Philip's Church, Atlanta—S. B. Oatnian.
Messrs. James Carnal?, R. H. Gardiner, Jr., S. M. Wilson,
Lewis D. Burwell, S. B. Oatman, appeared and took their
seats.
The Bishop then read his Annual Address.
ADDRESS.
Brethren of the Clergy and Laity :
Another year has passed away with its joys and its sorrows,
its hopes and its disappointments, and we find ourselves once
more assembled to consider its influence upon us as a part
of the Church of Christ upon earth. So long as we are in
the flesh, we must be sharers in the good and evil of the world,
and every revolving year will make its impress upon us as a
Diocese, as surely as it does upon us as individuals. And
this impress will be compounded of success and failure, of
advancement and retrogression, of progress in one direction
and of defeat in another. Any record, therefore, of the acts
of an ecclesiastical year, must partake of an admixture of
events that shall rejoice the hearts of the faithful in Christ
Jesus, and of hindrances and difficulties that shall continually
remind us of the solemn truth—" not by might, nor by pow¬
er, but by my Spirit," saith the Lord of Hosts.
When we consider this Law, which pervades all the opera¬
tions of God, as well in the economy of nature as of grace, we
shall neither be elated by success, nor cast down by disap¬
pointment—we shall learn to look for shadows as well as for
sunshine, for days of darkness, as well as for seasons of pros¬
perity. It has always been so with the Church of Christ. He
who loves her as his spouse, who has addressed her by every
term of endearment which he could lavish upon her, has made
her, in his own good time, to pass through bitter discipline, that
XI
she might be refined and purified as gold tried in the fire.—
And this decipline has he made as beautiful, in his time, as the
moments when he lifts up the light of his countenance upon
his beloved, and bids her arise and shine. His dealings are
always those of divine wisdom, and our perception should be
always that of faith. <£ Not my will but thine, 0 Lord, be
done."
These are not the remarks of despondency, for my address
will exhibit much that shall be cause of cheerful rejoicing, but
of sadness for the events which have been intermingled with
our annual progress. When schemes in which we have taken
deep interest are permitted to fail—when friends whom we
have loved and counselled with, are removed by death—when
clergymen who have borne with us the heat and burthen of
the day, have been carried off to other spheres, we cannot but
feel sad, however rich may have been the compensation which
a loving Father has provided for us. But still, these are only
the changes which, advancing life forces us to witness, and
which are unfelt by those who are rising up to take our places,
with the energy of youth and of hope. If we have not been
able to achieve all for our beloved Diocese which we conceiv¬
ed and desired, we trust that we may be permitted to say,
that we have done what we could. Our consolation is that
we are advancing, however slowly, and that a retrospect of a
few years will satisfy us that we have much cause tor grati¬
tude and encouragement, in the midst of our sorest disappoint¬
ments. At the close of our last Convention, and just before
its dispersion, I confirmed in Christ Church, at Macon, eight
persons. These were not reported in my address, oflast year.
Immediately after the Convention, I proceeded in company
with the Rev. Mr. Williams, and the Rev. Mr. Gibson, to Al¬
bany, in Dougherty county, and on Wednesday, the 16th
May, consecrated to the service of Almighty God, a Church
by the name of St. Paul's. It is a very neat edifice, capable of
sitting about two hundred and fifty persons, and very com¬
pletely finished. It is quite an ornament to this rising town.
On Saturday the 19th May, I visited the plantations of Mrs.
12
Fishburn, of Columbus, and administered the rite of confirma¬
tion to eighteen persons, all colored. The Holy Communion
was also given to a large number of these faithful adherents
of the Church.
On Sunday the 20th May, I officiated in St. Paul's, Albany,
and in the afternoon confirmed one person. At night, I held
service at the plantation of Mr. Nightingale, and administered
the Holy Communion.
On Thursday, May 24, I baptized a child in Americas. I
think that a misssion might be established with every pros¬
pect of success, that should unite this place with Perry, in
Houston county, where there are eight or ten communicants.
Sunday, the 27th May, I officiated in St. Paul's, Augusta,
and confirmed nineteen persons; in the afternoon, I con¬
firmed two persons at the Church of the Atonement, in the
same City.
The next Sunday, June 3d, was spent in Savannah, and in
the afternoon of that day, I confirmed in St. John's Church
nine persons, and addressed the congregation upon the sub¬
ject of Confirmation.
On Saturday, the 14th June, I examined Mr. S. J. Pinker-
ton, a candidate for Deacon's Orders, and on Tuesday the 17th,
in Christ Church, Savannah, admitted him to the Holy Order
of Deacons. Mr. Pinkerton has been usefully employed du¬
ring the year, under my direction at Grace Church, Clarks-
ville, and St. Andrew's, Darien.
My appointments during the summer, were all interrupted
by the continued illness of my children, which confined me
at home until the month of October, when I recommenced my
visitations. On Sunday, the 14th October, I visited Grace
Church, Clarkesville, officiated in the morning in the village,
and in the afternoon at the Chapel, in the country. Upon
this visit, one person was offered for Confirmation.
Sunday, the 21st October, was spent at the Duck Town
Copper Mines, in Tennessee, where I was prevented from
officiating by the inclemancy of the weather. I took these
mines in my way round from Clarkesville to Rome, partly for
13
the purpose of ascertaining their position, and how far they
might come under my jurisdiction. Knowing that a very large
population of Englishmen was gathering there, who might
be lost to the Church, if not immediately cared for, I determ¬
ined to ascertain how far the responsibility would rest upon
me, if they were neglected. I ascertained that the valuable
mines which had been opened, were all in Tennessee, from
three to five miles from the border of Georgia, and that any
thing which was to be done, must be done from Tennessee.
About five thousand persons were assembled there, among
whom were a good many church people.
From Tennessee, I proceeded to the Church of the Ascen¬
sion, Cass county, and visited the families connected with the
Church at that point. There were no candidates for Confir¬
mation. My intention is to connect this Parish with Cave
Spring and Calhoun, and appoint a missionary for the three
stations—a very comfortable support can be made up from
the three congregations for a Clergyman.
On Sunday, the 27th October,! officiated at St. Peter's, Rome,
and found the congregation, although so long without a min¬
ister, in very good heart, and rather increased than diminish¬
ed in number since my last visit. Seven candidates were
offered for Confirmation, and great desire expressed for the
services of a clergyman. I am happy to say that their wish
has been gratified by the acceptance of their Parish, by the
Rev. Wm. H. Clarke, late of Pennsylvania.
Oil Sunday, the 9th December, I assisted the Rt. Rev. the
Bishop of Alabama, in the consecration ofSt. John's Church,
Montgomery, preaching at his request, the Consecration Ser¬
mon. It would be very important for our Southern and
Southwestern Dioceses, if this interchange of courtesies could
be more frequent—we might very much strengthen each
others hands, and awaken a deeper interest in the progress of
the Church.
On Sunday, January 20th, 1856, I confirmed in St. John's
Church, Savannah, three persons.
On Sunday, January 27th, I confirmed in St. Stephen's
14
Church, Mill edge ville, five persons ; several candidates hav¬
ing been prevented from offering themselves by the excessive
severity of the weather. I found this Parish in better con¬
dition than I had ever seen it,and every thing about the Church
edifice spoke of prosperity and success.
February 10th, was made remarkable by the largest confir¬
mation ever held in this Diocese ; upon that day, I visited the
mission upon the Ogeechee, under charge of the Rev. Mr.
Williams, and consecrated to the service of Almighty God,
and for the use of the negroes upon the adjoining plantations,
a very comfortable Church, under the title ofSt. James' Church,
Great Ogeechee. At the close of the Consecration Service, one
hundred and forty-eight candidates were presented for Con¬
firmation, most of whom were young people, that had been
trained under the direct supervision of the Missionary, and
were well instructed in the services of the Church, and the
duties of the Christian.
The longer I observe the working of this Mission, the bet¬
ter am I satisfied that we could get under our control, and
bless with our instructions almost the whole slave population
of the Sea-coast, if the Masters would only do their duty, and
if Ministers could be found who would devote themselves to
the work. And I feel the more anxious upon this subject,
because I am more and more confirmed in my opinion that
the negroes need more instruction than they can receive from
any itinerancy, and that the settled pastoral system of the
Church, together with its Liturgical forms, is the best suited
to their spiritual condition. It is manifest before our eyes
all over our Diocese, of how little avail is declamatory teach¬
ing, accompanied by temporary excitement, unless there shall
have been a long previous course of instruction in the doc¬
trines of the gospel. We must first teach men what the
truth is, before we can effectually urge them to embrace it.
Exhortation is to succeed, or, at the utmost, accompany in¬
struction ; otherwise, it excites the feelings, without changing
either the will, or the life.
A -tf ery large proportion, fully two-thirds of the owners of
15
slaves along the sea-board of Georgia, is nominally Epis¬
copal, connected either through education or conviction
with the Church, most of these are in sufficient proximity
to each other to form Missions, which would demand for
their support, but a very moderate expenditure on the part
of each Planter, far less than would be repaid him by the
improved moral condition of his people; and yet we have
but two such Missions from the Savannah River to the St.
Mary's, and only one of these is anywise complete. Now
why is this ? Is it because the masters take no interest in
the religious instruction of their servants? With some this
may be the case, but a large majority feel substantial interest
in their spiritual welfare. Is it because they are unwilling
to pay the money which may be required for their teaching ?
Far from it, for many are now expending money for this
very purpose, but, as I think, most unprofitably. The main
reason is, because the Masters will continue, in spite of all
the evidence from North and South Carolina, and now from
the indubitable success of, Mr. Williams, stubbornly of the
opinion, that the services of the Episcopal Church arc not
suited to the negroes, and that they can not be made to give in
their adhesion to it. No body of people, that has been care¬
fully trained in another system, that has all its associations
wrapt up with a different teaching, whose whole social life is
pervaded by a spirit alien from Episcopacy, can ever be
expected to choose the Church as the system of religion
under which they would prefer to live, or to yield, without a
long struggle, to its order and discipline. But only let the
Masters take firm ground upon this subject; let them combine
and secure an Episcopal Minister who shall be devoted to
the sole care of their negroes, and I will warrant you, that if
he be a Minister of a right spirit, ten years shall not have
elapsed, before he will be well beloved among them, the
pastor of their affections, as well as of their choice. There
is a difficulty, 'tis true, in procuring Ministers who will give
themselves wholly to this work, but the same spirit which
carries our young men to Africa and China, would lead
16
them to service in these fields, if they were properly opened
before them. But the Bishop of a Diocese can do nothing
in urging the attention of our young students to this work,
until he sees some earnest desire on the part of the Planters
manifested by combination and practical action, and then if it
is done, it must be done in faith, with the true expectation of
much disappointment and much hindrance, before the good
work can be accomplished. God gives nothing to his Church
or to his people, until he lias tried and proved their faith and
patience.
And to the young men, who are preparing for the ministry,
I would point out this service as one of the noblest and
most christian which can now engage their prayerful consid¬
eration. It is Africa at home—it is missionary work, de¬
manding quite as much self-denial, self-discipline, and self-
sacrifice, as any they may undertake abroad; if their single
desire be, as it ought to be, to win souls for Christ, no field
more ripe for the harvest can be found, none better adapted
for the exercise and developement of all christian graces, than
this; it demands in the highest degree, the faith and patience
of the saints, and no man should dare to approach it, who is not
prepared to labor for long, long years, without growing faint
or weary. Let none come, who shall expect to return with
their sheaves rejoicing, before they shall have sown in bitter
tears of humiliation and disappointment. Let none come
who are not prepared to endure the contradiction of sinners,
resisting even unto blood. But if any shall feel within them
the drawing of the Holy Ghost towards this work, a con¬
straining love which induces them to sacrifice self for Christ,
let them come,and welcome. They will find an open door,and
souls longing to be fed with the Bread of Life.
On Sunday, the 24th Feb'y, confirmation was administered
in Christ Church, Savannah, upon which occasion seven
persons were confirmed.
The first Sunday after Easter was spent with the Church at
Darien. On Saturday, the 29th March, St. Andrew's Church
was consecrated to the service of Almighty God, it having been
17
very neatly finished and all its debts paid. It is now in a
very promising condition, and is increasing in all the elements
of strength. If its communicants and friends will now only
take care not to faint in their good works, they will establish
their Church upon a footing which will ensure permanence.
On Sunday the 30th, the rite of Confirmation was adminis¬
tered in the newly consecrated Church, when seven persons
were confirmed, one of whom was colored.
On Monday, the 31st March, I visited St. David's Church,
Glynn County, preached and confirmed six persons. This
Jittle Parish remains very much in its usual condition, its posi¬
tion not admitting of much increase or decrease. The Rev.
Mr. Brown still combines it with Christ Church, St. Simon's.
On the third Sunday after Easter, April 13th, a second Con¬
firmation was held in Christ Church, Savannah, in the morn¬
ing, when four persons were presented for the acceptance of
the sacred rite. In the evening of the same day a third con¬
firmation was held in St. John's Church, Savannah,' when
seven additional candidates were confirmed.
The fourth Sunday after Easter, April 20th, was spent
with Trinity Church, Columbus, upon which occasion nine
persons were confirmed. The Rev. Wm. N. Hawks, late of
the Diocese of Florida, took charge of this Parish in Decem¬
ber last, and is laboring with great acceptance among the
people.
An appointment had been made to visit Talbotton, on Wed¬
nesday, Thursday, and Friday of the following week, but the
sickness and unavoidable absence of the Rector, rendered it
nugatory.
The next Sunday, April 27th, I visited Christ Church, Ma¬
con, and officiated several times, confirming on Sunday night,
nine persons.
The first Sunday after Ascension, May 4th, was given to
St. Philip's Church, Atlanta, upon which occasion I had the
pleasure of confirming in this growing Parish nine persons.
This Church will, in a few years, be one of the strongest in
the Diocese.
3
18
At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Montpeher
Institute, in December last, at Savannah, it was unanimously
determined to close the Institute. The expeiiment had been
fairly made for five years, since 1850, under the best auspices,
to carry it 011, but we are bound to say, without any such
success as would warrant its continuance. Possessing 110 en¬
dowment, it required an unfailing number of pupils to pay
its current expenses, and those pupils could not be regularly
counted upon ; any epidemic that might pervade the country,
any change in the superintendence of the school, any idle
report that might get abroad respecting its management, sub¬
jected us to a loss of pupils, and consequently to the hazard
of incurring a debt, for which there was no resourse but the
purse of the Church. Under these circumstances, the Trus¬
tees concluded that it was advisable to bring its affairs to a
close while it could be doneivithout pecuniary liability, and
since December, Mr. Williford, the Treasurer, has been en¬
gaged in the settlement of its affairs. The property will then
be placed in the hands of the Trustees, to whom it was con¬
veyed in the transfer of the property in 1850.
In the course of the winter, a communication was made to
me by the Secretary of the Domestic Committee of the Mis¬
sionary Board of the Protestant Episcopal Church of Ihe
United States, signifying the willingness of the Domestic Com¬
mittee to restore Georgia to the missionary list, with an ap¬
propriation of $1,000 annually. As I always considered^
that action of the Domestic Committee which cut Georgia off
from her missionary allowance an unwise one, she never, in
any one year, having received more than she had returned to
the Treasury, and as I believed that it would give new spirit
to the Diocesan Missions of the Church, I gratefully consent¬
ed to the proposition, and in March last $1,000 per annum
was appropriated to Georgia—of this amount $150 has been
appropriated to St. Peter's, Rome, and the Rev. Wm. H.
Clarke appointed Missionary. This is the only appointment
which has, as yet, been made.
This renewed liberality of the Domestic Committee affords
19
me a good opportunity of calling the attention of the Parish¬
es to the subject of our Diocesan Missions. Unless more
systematic attention is paid to this subject by the Parishes, it
will be impossible for the Church to extend in the Diocese.
If the regularity of the supply of missionary funds is not
maintained, the whole energies of the Diocese must flag.
Inadequate payment to the Missionaries causes them to quit
their cures and seek for other fields of labor, and this con¬
stant change of Ministers prolongs the period of missionary
probation, through which a Parish must almost necessarily
pass. If a suitable effort shall be made this present year,
and I recommend to the Parishes that it should be made,
we shall be enabled not only, to maintain comfortably, but to
increase our Missionary Stations, with the help of the ap¬
propriations from the Domestic Board.
During the current year, I have dismissed the Rev. James
D. Gibson to the Diocese of South Carolina, the Rev. William
J. Perdue, and the Rev. Geo. White, to the Diocese of Ala¬
bama, and the Rev. Wm. T. Dickinson Dalzell to the Diocese
of Pennsylvania. The Rev. John T. Pryse has been received
from the Diocese of Maryland, and has taken charge of the
City Mission in Savannah; the Rev. WTm. N. Hawks has been
transferred from the Diocese ol' Florida, and has been elected
Rector of Trinity Church, Columbus; the Rev. Wm. H.
Clarke from the Diocese of Pennsylvania, and has been ap¬
pointed Missionaay to St. Peter's, Rome. The Rev. Mr.
Pinkerton was ordained in June, 1855, and has been act¬
ing as Minister of the two Parishes of Grace, Clarksville,
and St. Andrew's, Darien.
The Rev. J. H. Linebaugh, late Rector of Emmanuel Church,
Athens, having signified to me, in pursuance of the requisi¬
tions of Canon V7". of 1850, his renunciation of the Ministry
of the Protestant Episcopal Church, and his intention not to
officiate in future in any of the Offices thereof, was, in the
presence of the Rev. Geo. H. Clark, and the Rev. John T.
Pryse, deposed on the 27th day of February last, from the
Ministry of the Protestant Episcopal Church.
20
Since the last Convention, Mr. Pinkerton was transferred
as a candidate for orders from the Diocese of Alabama, and
was ordained in June last. Mr. John T. Gierlow of, Macon,
and Mr. Charles Coley, of Athens, have become candidates
lor orders, making five candidates now connected with the
Diocese.
The sorest calamity which has befallen the Diocese during
the past year, she has experienced in the death of that ac¬
complished and revered Christian Statesman, the Honorable
John McPherson Berrien. Although the State and the Coun¬
try have expressed through numberless channels, their high
sense of his abilities and his virtues, it becomes this Conven¬
tion to swell the universal lamentation, and re-echo the words
of admiration and of sorrow. For many years he occupied
so promising a position in the affairs of the Diocese of Geor¬
gia, as a Warden of Christ Church, and as a delegate to our
Diocesan and General Conventions, that he was as dear to
the Church, as he was to the State. His high christian char¬
acter, his firm attachment to the doctrines and discipline of
the Church, his bold maintenance of her distinct principles,
when but few were found to do' her reverence, his deep in¬
terest in her welfare and her woe, all combined to place him
first in the Councils of the Diocese as he was first in the Coun¬
cils of the State. But his three-score years and ten were
past, and nature claimed his mortality, while his spirit re¬
turned to the God who gave it, trusting in the alone merits
of Jesus Christ, his Saviour. May his example not be lost
upon the Statesmen of Georgia, and may their glory be, like
his, that while leading in the Councils of the Nation, he was
not ashamed to humble himself as a little child, before the
divine wisdom of Jesus.
That all our counsels may be overshadowed by the wings
of the Holy Dove, whose descent we commemorate upon
the approaching Lord's Day, is the prayer of your Diocesan.
STEPHEN ELLIOTT,
Bishop of the Diocese of Georgia.
21
The Parochial Reports were read, and referred to the Com¬
mittee on the State of the Church.
On motion of the Rev. Dr. Ford, the following resolution
was adopted:
Resolved, That a Committee of Three, be appointed by the Bishop, for the pur¬
pose of giving suitable expression to the sentiments and feelings of this Conven¬
tion, with reference to the death of the late Judge Berrien, and to testify their af¬
fectionate respect for his memory.
The Rev. Dr. Ford, and Messrs. Whittle and Meigs, were
appointed the Committee.
On motion, the Rules of Order were suspended, and the
Convention proceeded to the Election of the Standing Com¬
mittee and the Committee on Missions, with the following re¬
sult :
Standing Committee.
OF THE CLERGY. OF THE LAITY.
Rev. E. E. Ford, Mr. G.McLaughlin,
Rev. R. Johnson, E. F. Campbell,
Rev. W. C. Williams, " Chas. Dwelle.
Committee on Missions.
OF THE CLERGY. OF THE LAITY.
Rev. George H. Clarke, Mr. Wm. B. Giles,
Rev. J. T. Pryse, " Geo. A. Gordon,
" W. W. Lincoln.
On motion of Mr. Whittle, the following resolutions were
adopted:
Resolved, That the Standing Resolutions touching the fund for the support of
the Episcopate, passed at the convention of 1841, be and the same are hereby
repealed, and the following substituted therefor:
Resolved, That as it is important, that the formation of a permanent fund for
the support of the Episcopate in this Diocese be prosecuted earnestly, each Rector
of a Parish is instructed, annually on the 2nd Sunday after Easter, to call the at¬
tention of his parishoners to the subject, and invite contributions for the object,
in such mode as he may deem most expedient.
Resolved, That the convention elect, at each annual meeting, a Treasurer of the
Episcopal Fund ; who shall invest the same in his discretion, until the further or¬
der of this Convention, and who shall report the state of said fund, and how in¬
vested, at each annual meeting.
22
After Prayer, by the Bishop, the Convention adjourned to
hour of Public Worship, Saturday Morning.
At night, Evening Prayer was read by the Rev. John 1.
Pryse, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. R. Johnson.
Saturday, May 10M, 1856.
Morning Prayer was read by the Rev. Wm. H. Clarke, and
a Sermon preached by the Rev. H. K. Rees.
After Public Worship, the Convention was called to order,
and the roll called. Present as yesterday, with the exception
of Mr. R. H. Gardiner, and the addition of Messrs. Hall
and Denny.
A certificate from the Rector of St. Philip's Church, At¬
lanta, under Art. TV. of the Constitution was presented, read
and referred to the Committee of Elections.
The Committee reported the certificate to be in due form,
and that Mr. H. B. Welton is entitled to a seat in this Con¬
vention.
Mr. Welton appeared, and took his seat.
The Reports of the Treasurers of the Diocese, and the Mis¬
sionary Committee were presented, and referred to a Commit¬
tee on Finance.
Ordered, that the Committee consist of Messrs. McLaugh¬
lin, Wilder and Burwell.
The Standing Committee of the Diocese presented the fol¬
lowing report, which was received.
REPORT.
The Standing Committee respectfully report the following, as their official acts,
since the last Convention :
Tbey have signed the Oononical Testimonials, respectively in favor of Charles
H. Coley, as a candidate for Holy Orders, and of the Rev. Samuei, J. Pinkektok,
to be ordained to the Order of Priests.
EDWARD E. FORD, President.
The committee, appointed to prepare resolutions expres¬
sive of the feelings of this convention, in reference to the death
of the lamented Hon. J. M. Berrien, reported as follows :
23
The Committee to whom it was referred to give expression to the sentiments of
this Convention with reference to the death of the late Judge Berrien, and to
testify its respect for his memory, beg leave to recommend the adoption of the
following preamble and resolutions.
EDWARD E. FORD, Chairman.
Georgia, owes still one tribute more of reverence and respect to the memory of
John Macpherson Berrien.
The Country at large, in whose councils he filled so long, and so honorably, con-
spicious stations as a Statesman ; the Bar and the Bench, upon which he confer-
ed lustre by his deep professional learning, his clear and lucid reasoning powers,
and his fascinating eloquence ; the particular community with which, for a long
life, he was identified, in the ordinary duties and relations of social life, and in
whose hearts he had won for himself so warm a place ; these have all, in suitable
forms paid their respective tributes of reverence, and admiration, and love, to his
memory. It is fitting that the Church of Christ, of which he was a devoted and
loving member, which he adorned by unpretending, but earnest piety, and to
whose interests and welfare, he consecrated the best powers of a noble mind, as
a member from time to time, of the Convention of this Diocese, and of the General
Convention, should add her tribute of affectionate respect for his memory. This
has already been done, in part, through the voice of that ancient and much honor¬
ed Parish, to which he belonged, and towards which he sustained the honorable
relation of Senior Warden ; and it remains for this Convention to place upon record
it* separate expression. It is with sad hearts that we miss, at our present session,
his imposing form, and his bland countenance, so familiar, and always so welcome
among us ; and the mellow musical tones of that voice which was wont to be
heard in our ever quiet and harmonious deliberations. After a well spent and
honorable life, he has passed from among us; and it is left to us only, to bow in
humble submisssion under our loss, to endeavor to follow him in the lofty example
he has left us, as a man, aa a patriot, and as a christian ; and at this time, to
testify, in some emphatic manner, our reverent affection for his memory ; wherefore
Resolved, That this convention, while they desire to bow in humble submission
to the dispensation, by which it pleased the great Head of the Church to take from
among lis our beloved christian brother, John McPhkrson Berrien, cannot but
deeply feel the loss sustained by the Church, in the removal of one who hath served
her so faithfully and so wisely, as a member of the Convention of this Diocese, and
also of the General Convention.
Resolved, That those in this body, who have had the honor to serve with Judge
Berrikn, cherish the most pleasing recollections of his courteous demeanor, of his
earnest devotion to the interests and honor of our Zion, or his words of calm wis¬
dom in our Councils, and of the spirit of harmony, conciliation, and brotherly love
which he invariably manifested himself, and impressed upon our deliberations.
Resolved, That we most respectfully tender to the family of our departed friend,
our cordial assurances of sympathy and condolence in their bereavement, and of our
warm love, and admiration for the character, and the memory of him whom they
are called to mourn.
Resolved, That the Secretary furnish to the family of the deceased, a certified
copy of these resolutions.
24
The Committee on Unfinished Business presented the fol¬
lowing report, which was accepted:
The Committee on Unfinished Business respectfully report—first, that they find
one article of unfinished business on the fourteenth page of the Journal of the
Convention of 1855. It is a resolution offered by the late lamented Hon. J. M.
Berrien, proposing such an alteration of the eleventh article of the Constitution of
the Church in this Diocese, as will make the election of Deputies to the General
Convention, triennial, and their term of service to continue for three years.
Secondly, That they find on the fourth and fifth pages of the Journal of the
last General Convention, amendments to the second, fifth and sixth Articles of
the Constitution of the Church, adopted by both Houses of the General Conven¬
tion, and ordered to be made known to the several Diocesan Conventions.
RICHARD JOHNSON,
H. K. REES.
The Convention, then proceeded to the consideration of
the proposed amendment to the eleventh Article of the Con¬
stitution of the Church, in this Diocese.
The amendment proposed, read as follows :
Rcmlvrd, That this Convention will hereafter elect Delegates to the General
Convention, triennially, at the session of the Convention immediately preceedfng
the meeting of the General Convention, and that the Delegates so elected, shall
be authorized to represent this Diocese in that or any special Convention, until
their successors are chosen.
The amendment was adopted.
The Convention, then proceeded to consider the proposed
amendments to Articles II, V, VI, of the Constitution of the
Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States.
The Convention, acceded to the second and fifth Articles
of the Constitution. The sixth Article was rejected.
The Rev. Mr. Hawks submitted the following resolution :
Resolved, That the next Convention of the Church be held in Trinity Church,
Columbus, commencing on the Thursday after the first Monday 111 Mav, 1857.
Rev. Mr. Harrison proposed to strike out Thursday and
insert Wednesday. The amendment was rejected.
The original resolution was then adopted.
The Committee on Finance submitted their Report.
On motion it was re-committed.
The Committee on the State of the Church, presented the
following Report, which was adopted:
25
The Committee on the State of the Church, beg leave to report—that an ex¬
amination of tbe Parochial Reports, in those particulars which best indicate
spiritual prosperity, exhibited a decided increase during the past year. This will
be clearly seen by the following comparative exhibit:
1855.
1856.
Increase.
34!)
369
20
160
280
120
1543
1736
193
1204
1499
295
107
134
27
>2567
$3620
SI 053
18237
.§10,029
$1792
Baptisms, ...
Confirmations, -
Communicants,
Sunday School Children, -
Sunday School Teaohers, -
Missions,
Collections and donations for
gen'l Church and charitable ob¬
jects other than Missions,
The above, in the opinion of your Committee, presents as picture of vitality and
growth, calling for devout gratitude to the great and gracious Head of the Church,
and presenting strong ground of encouragement, to our continued activity and
faithfulness in His service. Respectfully submitted.
EDWARD E. FORD, Chairman.
The Convention then proceeded to the Election of Depu¬
ties to the General Convention, and Treasurers, with the fol¬
lowing result:
Deputies to the General Convention.
OF THE CLERGY. OK THE LA.ITV.
Rev. E. E. Ford, Mr. James Potter,
Rev. S. G. Bragg, Mr. Daniel Griffin,
Rev. W. C. Williams, Mr. R. H. Gardiner, Jr.
Rev. R. Johnson, Mr. P. M. Nightingale.
Treasurer of the Diocese.
Mr. J. Mongin Smith.
Treasurer of Missionary Committee.
Col. J. S. Hutton.
Treasurer of the Permanent Fund for the Support of the
Episcopate.
James Camak, M. D.
On motion of Mr. McLaughlin, the following resolution
was unanimously adopted :
Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention is justly due, and is hereby ten¬
dered to Dr. J. Camak, for his services as Treasurer of the Diocese.
4
26
'The Committee on Finance .submitted the following report
which was adopted :
The Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the Report oi the Treasurer
of the Diocese for 1855 and 1856, beg leave to report, that having examined the
account and vouchers, we find them correct.
There appears a balance due the Treasurer, for money advanced by him for the
years 1854 and '55, the sum of $458, and for the years 1855 and '56, the further
sum of $84, making a total of $542 due him for cash advanced, and which
amount should be returned.
We regret to observe that several Churches have neglected to make their an¬
nual payments to the Treasurer, viz:
St. Paul's, Albany.
Zion Church, Talbotton.
St. Philip's, Atlanta.
St. Stephen's, Milledgeville.
Grace Church, Clarkesville.
Tour committee regret also to notice that there has been great irregularity in
the payment of the annual assessments for defraying the incidental expenses of
the Convention, six Churches only having responded to this duty.
Those neglecting to make their assessments are, Christ Church, St, Simon's,
Grace Church, Clarkesville, St. Andrew's Church, Darien, St. David's, Glynn, St.
Philip's, Atlanta, Zion Church, Talbotton, Advent. Church, Madison, Messiah
Church, St. Mary's.
Your committee have also examined the accounts of the Treasurer of the Mis¬
sionary Committee, and find it correct, and supported by proper vouchers.
There appears a balance in the hands of the Treasurer, the sum of $573 37, and
there is a balance due the Missionaries on May 1 st, 1856, the sum of $758 58, be¬
sides a disputed account of $270 83.
..The Treasurer of the Diocese having submitted a plan for raising a permanent
fund for the support of the Episcopate, we would recommend that measures be
adopted to carry it into operation.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
G. McLAUGHLIN, Chairman.
The following resolution was adopted :
Resolved, That 1,000 copies of the Journal of this .Convention be published.
On motion of Mr. Whittle, it was unanimously
Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention are tendered to the citizens of
Marietta, for their kindness and hospitality to the members of this body.
The Bishop appointed the Rev. W"m. N. Hawks, to preach
the Convention Sermon, and the Rev. Mr. Pryse alternate ;
the Rev. Wm. H. Clarke, to preach the Missionary Sermon,
and the Rev. Mr. Pinkerton alternate.
27
After Prayers and Benediction, by the Bishop, the Conven¬
tion adjourned sine die.
At night, Evening Prayer was read by the Rev. Mr. Haber¬
sham, and a sermon preached by the Rev. Mr. Brown.
Whit Sunday, 1856.
The Bishop held a special ordination, when the Rev. S. J.
Pinkerton was admitted to the Order of Priests. Morning
prayer was read by the Rector, the Rev. Mr. Habersham, as¬
sisted by the Rev. Mr. Rees. The Right Rev. the Bishop of
the Diocese preached the sermon from Deut. xxxn. 32. The
candidate was presented by the Rev. Dr. Ford, who, with the
Rev. Messrs. Johnson and Bragg, united with the Bishop in
the imposition of hands. The Holy Communion was then
administered by the Bishop, assisted by the Rev. Dr. Ford,
and the Rev. Mr. Johnson.
At night, Evening Prayer was read by the Rev. Mr. Macau-
ley. The Bishop confirmed seven persons.
The Annual Missionary Sermon was preached by the Rev.
J. T. Pryse, from St. Mark, xvi. 15. After which, a collec¬
tion in aid of Missions, within the Diocese, was taken up,
amounting to $55. The Bishop then closed the services
with Prayer, and the Benediction.
S. ELLIOTT,
Bishop of the Diocese of Georgia.
Attest :
Wm. C. Williams, Sec'y.
APPENDIX.
PAROCHIAL REPORTS.
CHRIST CHURCH—SAVANNAH.
RT. REV. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, RECTOR.
Baptisms—White adult ... 1
White children - - - -20
Total - - - -21
Confirmations - - - - - 11
Marriages - - - - - 7
Burials—White adults - - - 10
" children - - - 5
Colored adults - 2
" children - - 1
Total burials - - - - 18
Communicants—Last Report - - - - 231
Lost by death - 5
Lost by removal - 7
Lost by defection - 1—13
218
Added—New communicants - - _ 12
By removals in ... 19 31
Present number
Sunday School—Scholars
Teachers
249
113
17
29
Contributions.
Communion Alms and Boxes at doors.
For Diocesan Purposes:
Collection at Advent one-half -
Ladies' Missionary Society
From Geo. Cuyler, Esq., Treasurer of Church,
From St. Philip's Ch., Atlanta -
From Ladies Missionary Society of Christ
Church, two Dividends on Bank Stpck
From Treasurer
$820.00
Expended as follows:
Last payment Church at Darien
Missionary at Clarkesville
Missionary at Atlanta on old account,
Missionary to colored people in Savannah,
1st Quarter's Salary Missionary to Rome,
Treasurer of Diocese
Amount collected for City Missionary,
Domestic Missions:
Collection in Church
Christ Church Sunday School,
Bishop Scott, Oregon,
From an individual for Oregon -
For Sellwood Fund
Foreign Missions:
Ladies' Chinese Society
Contributed for J.ews
Collected for Mr. Tong
Lady of congregation for
Bishop Payne
Sunday School—Child China
Child Africa
Collection in Church
- $165
- 64
30
- 26
204
188
-$677 00
.15
150 00
26.00
150.00
62.50
107.35
$677.00
).00
$165.00
15.00
5.00
100.00
$285.00
$550.00
2.50
150.00
10.00
25.00
20.00
123.00
880.50
30
Prayer Book Society - 28.00
For Churches in East Tennessee, - - $350.00
For support of Episcopate - $1,000.00
For Orphans' Home ... 800.00
Besides these liberal contributions to various religious and
benevolent operations, the Rector acknowledges with sincere
gratitude the munificent donations which are continually
made by this generous congregation to himself and family.
Their liberality knows no bounds, for which, God bless and
prosper them abundantly in body and in soul.
ST. TAUL'S CHURCH—AUGUSTA.
REV. EDWARD E. FORD, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adults 4, children 30, total, 34
Confirmed, - - - - - 19
Communicants—added, 27 ; died, 4; removed, 16 ;
present number, - - - - 154
Marriages, - - - - - -10
Burials—(8 not of the congregation,) - 20
Sunday Schools—the white Sunday School numbers
about 80 children, taught by 3 male and 9
female teachers. Colored, about 60 children,
with two female teachers.
Communion alms, - - §398 79
Missions—Diocesan, - - - - 189 60
Domestic Committee of Gen'l Board, - - 70 00
Foreign " « « _ 5g 00
Donations in aid of the church, at Matagorda, Texas, 100 00
Do in aid of the church at Chattanooga, Tenn., 170 00
Bishop's Salary, - 500 00
Funds for support of the Episcopate, - Q2 44
For the support of the Church Asylum, over 600 00
The Church Asylum continues to prosper ; it now affords
a happy christian home to eleven orphan, or half orphan
children, six boys and five girls, under the government of a
31
kind, faithful and efficient Matron, a communicant of the
Church. An excellent Teacher, also a communicant, and
whose heart is fully in the work, instructs the inmates daily,
in the plain branches of secular education, combining promi¬
nently therewith, the religious teaching of the Church ; a few
other children of the parish, sharing gratuously, the benefits
of the school. An act of incorporation was obtained from the
last Legislature, thus placing us m a condition to benefit by
any gifts or bequests to which christian hearts may, at any
time, be moved. It is pleasing to observe an interest steadily
growing and spreading in this Institution, in proportion as
its sound Church basis is considered, and its practical work¬
ing, and its good fruits are being seen.
" Jehovah-jirch and the Lord hath provided. Hitherto
" we have lacked nothing," and we can now say, " we owe
no man anything." Our humble work " begun and contin¬
ued" thus far, and which we trust will be carried on, in sim¬
ple faith, has, blessed be God, fully answered its more imme¬
diate objects, while it is manifestly exerting a reflex influence
of the happiest kind, upon the spiritual interests of the parish.
On the whole, we have abundant reason to " thank God, and
take courage."
CHRIST CHURCH—MACON
REV. H. K. REES, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adults 3 ; infants 21; total - - -24
Confirmations—white 16; colored 1; total - - 17
Communicants—Reported last year 111; added in Ma¬
con 18; added in Houston County 3; added in
Americus 5; died 2 ; removed 2 ; present number 133
Marriages - 5
Burials 12
Sunday School Scholars—whites 90; colored 14; total 104
Teachers ----14
32
Contributions.
Communion Alms - - - - - $221,00
Missions—Diocesan ----- 154,50
<£ General Board—Domestic - - - 65,00
" " " Foreign - - 84,75
To the Church at Chattanooga - 50,00
To Bishop's Permanent Fund - 45,00
For Sunday School purposes - 90,00
By Sunday School to Missions - - - 20,00
Ladies' Sewing Society 120,00
By Congregation for various purposes - - 917,23
Episcopal salary ------- 300,00
In the progress of the Church's year, the Rector is encour¬
aged in stating, that he has observed a growing interest, as to
numbers in attendance on the means of grace, and an increas¬
ing desire to use more fully the aids to christian nurture, the
Church has provided.
Unity of feeling and kindliness of action have pervaded the
Congregation, evinced by schemes of benevolent liberality
originating with the laity, and generously executed.
Among the blessings which a kind Providence hath granted
to us, is the return of the venerated Father of this Parish, to
reside among his people; for we all feel, both Pastor and
Flock, that in having him among us we inherit a blessing.
TRINITY CHURCH—COLUMBUS.
REV. VVM. N. HAWKS, RECTOK.
On the first of December, 1855, I commenced my duties
as Rector of this Parish, since which time the following
services have been performed:
Marriages—whites 3
Baptisms—adults 2 ; children, white 8; colored 3 ; total 13
Confirmations—whites g
33
Communicants—reported to last Convention 108; added
17 ; decrease by death, removal and withdrawal 6 ;
present number 119
Burials—adult whites 5
Sunday School Children 140
" " Teachers - - - - - - 21
The Parochial School, established and taught by the ladies
of the Congregation, under the supervision of Mis. Cairns, is
in a flourishing condition, numbering at this time from fifty
to seventy-five scholars.
Contributions.
Diocesan Missions ------ $82,00
Domestic " - 43,00
African " - - - - - - - 238,00
Oregon " ------ 730,00
Parochial purposes - - - - 139,63
Episcopal Fund - - - 60,30
Assessment for Bishop's salary &c., - 273,80
$1,566,73
GRACE CHURCH—CLARKSVILLE.
REV. SAMUEL J. PINKERTON, RECTOR.
Communicants, about 20
Baptisms, - - - 1
Confirmations, - 1
Burials—white 1, col'd. I; total, - 2
Sunday School Scholars, - * ■ 30
Contributions
Monthly offerings, - 61 89
Offerings by Mission Box, - - 11 62
Communion Alms, 11 50
Total, 85 01
In addition to the .Sunday School, under the care of the
Rector of Grace Church, at the Chapel of Holy Cross, there
5
34,
is quite an in teres! 111? School of the "same kind, near Troy
Mountain, tinder the superintendence of Mr. S. McCluve, a
candidate for Holy Orders..
ST. JOHN'S (TiTJKC]f—SAVANNAH.
UF,V. (VErdiC-i: J-!. Ci- AT!;;, RKCTOR,
Baptisms---iniauts. .yt: colored 1 ; adults, vhil« 3, . 24
CpnimuniCsnN- 'ukied >s. d!C-t\2. rt-tuo\red< 10 ; prese-nt
number, . . 166
Confirmed—"whites 18-. colored 1, . 19
Marriages—whites 9 ; r.oioyed 1. - . 10
Burials, . . ■ . . 10
Sunday School Teachers, . . , .18
Scholars. . . . , 100
Co'at ribulions^
Foreign Missions, . . . >50 00
African v£ . . . . 50 00
Diocesan " .... 259 25
. Domestic " . lt>9 25
. Bishop Scoti, Oreyon, 100 00
Communion Alms. ... 429 91
Bishop's Salary, . ... . 250 00
Ladies' Society—Benevolent purposes, . 44 Oy
Episcopal Orphan's Home, ■ -112 00
Offertory for Church debt. 1 iy3 27
Church at Matagorda, T ex a . 217 00
Churches in Tennessee, about , 130 00
Candidates for Orders. . 50 00
Church at Albany, . . _ 25 00
Special Contributions, partly for poor, 150 00
Sunday School for China, . . 05 00
Sunday School for Africa, . . , 20 00
Chinese Society,' 45 00
City Missions, . . . .75 00
$3634 77
35
During1 the year, very liberal gifts hate "b^eti triage to the
Parish, including gas- fixture^ j^ews valued at SSaOO1, 00,
and $21 Of? DO for the red.Hcti<vu of (lie church, debt. r Sever¬
al gentlejnen have established a Sunday School for the podr,
irKhe-suburbs of the town. r
The Rector gratefully a V'kyx> pledges ai/ addition fo/ ^500
* per annum,, to- his tfalury ; ajid return? his tfoftntd tp the
trea^urer^ for making the payments regularly ai t!i** begin¬
ning of each month. The1 Parish is pi a Yerypvosperoifs con¬
dition ; and this is the rextilt, m iio sitiqll degre^, of the in¬
terest taken by the gefttlempi-j oiT the vestry, in' whatever «con-
♦cprns the fyelfarti of the Church.
rf.
•Sti <:WWCH^-MILL£DGfcVIJ,LE.
fticv. fcfco* piprToif *
BaptismK—aclults 5?4 infants 4; total** » . {}
Confirmations i 5
Comm.nni^aiita—removed H, present number 4 1®
TVIarjiageft f «. - ' . I
Burials . * » » . 12
Sunday School Scholars j , . . * 24
T^acher^ ...... 3
Whilst the Rector iegrets that'by reasorf of -enttgntibn the
number of eomnluufticaifts if! sfilf stoafl, he is! £vatrfied in
kfioWirig fhat^the Uhurctr's iiifluelfefc J.4 now ^reafef, and her
prospect^ kighter fh^i>the^ fern: have1 btjer* during hiis jiihi-
istry.
CHRIST -t;HTnlCH^ST. fclMONS.
REV. E. BROWN, BJSCTOK.
Baptisms—infant, white l-j^colore^4, total 5
It is expected that some will^be ready for ronfirraation at
the approaching visit of the Bishop. * '
36
ST. DAVID'S CHURCH—GLYNN CO.
REV. E. P. BROWN, RECTOR.
Confirmations—adult white . . . . 6
Baptisms—adult white 2, colored 1 ; total . 3
Baptisms—infant white 3, colored 2; total . 5
It is with much pleasure the Rector records the confirma¬
tions given above.. Gathered lrom the few families which
make up the Congregation—all in the period of life when life
begins to assume its serious form, as it looks out over the du¬
ties and responsibilities of the future, there is in it for each, a
pledge for good and a shield from evil, whose worth cannot
be told.
ST. LUKE'S CHURCH—MONTPELIER.
REV. S. G. BRAGG, LATE RECTOR.
The undersigned, late officiating Rector of Georgia Episco¬
pal Institute, presents the following notice of his connexion
with it,, from the Convention of last year, until the 28th
March, 1856. The Trustees of the Institute having decided
to close up the affairs of the School, at the end of the year
1855, 1 felt it to be my duty to remain at Montpelier until suffi¬
cient time had been given for the return of the Faculty and
pupils to their respective homes*. Not only the Institute is
closed, but St Luke's Parish is necessarily dissolved. By
two such events, the cause of Missions and of Christian
Education, must be unfavorably affected for a time.
It remains only, that I report to you my official acts, and
the benevolent contributions of the school and Parish.
Baptisms—children, white 2, colored 1 . . .3
do. adults, white 1, colored 1 . . 2
Total
Contributions.
From the Ladies' Missionary Society of Georgia Epis¬
copal Institute, specially appropriated to aid the
Church in Madison, Ga., (on account of a former
pledge,) ...... $20
From the School and Parish for Diocesan Missions . 20
From Ladies' Missionary Society, of Institute, for Af¬
rican Mission . . . . .25
For Domestic Missions in Oregon and Washington
Territories, under Rt. Rev. Bishop Scott . . 5
Total . . . . . $70
SENECA G. BRAGG.
ST. ANDREW'S CHURCH—DARIEN,
REV. SAM'L J. PINKERTON, RECTOR.
Baptisms—adults 1, infants 4 total . . .5
Confirmations . . ... 7
Communicants — added 7, received from other
Church es 5, restored 2, present number, white
37, colored 54 ; total -
Marriages (out of Parish)
Burials—White 1, Colored 1; total
Sunday School Scholars, about .
Contributions:
For repairs on Church
For Melodian
Monthly Offerings .
Communion Alms
Bishop's Fund
Convention Expenses
Total
473.37
70.00
49.20
10.6 5
25.00
7.40
91
1
2
25
Sfi35 J>2
38
I should state that fifty-two of the Colored Communicants
belonging to St.. .Andrew's Church, have been transferred
during the present year from St. Paul's Church, Albany.
ST. JAMES' CHURCH—MARIETTA.
REV. B. K. H AB.EBSH AM, BECTOB
Families., . '. . . . .31
Confirmed. . . . * . 1
Candidates for Confirmation, 8
Communicants—white 57, colored 3 ; total . 60
Baptized—infants 5, adults'2, . * . 7
Married—rwhite 4, colored 1. ... 5
Burials, . . . . 10.
Sunday School Scholars. . ... 50
"Teachers. ...... 8
Contributions.
For Bishop Seotl, #42 ; Domestic Missions, $> 10, . $52 00
" ('hurch iii Tenn., $ IS ; Diocesan Missions, 520, 38 00
" Foreign Missions$25 ; Communion Alms,$57,93 82 93
'* episcopal salary, . . . . 25 00
kk * Widows and Orphans Fund. . 10 00
Total, S207 93
This Parish has suffered nnich during the last twelve
months, from emigration. Twelve Communicants have re¬
moved.' We have also suilered from mortality ; five of our
Communicants having uone, as we trust, to join the Church
triumphant.
Our weekly service and lecture have continued without
interruption ; and the attendance has been encouraging. We
have no outward increase to exhibit, but we trust, 'that we
"have not been left without an inward and spiritual growth.
39
ST. PHILIP'S CHURCH—ATLANTA.
REV. RICHARD JOHNSON, R Kl'TOR.
Communicants . 49
Confirmations . o
Candidates for Confirmation , , , . o
Sunday Scliool Pupils (white) , .. 29
(C Teachers ... 5
Sunday School Pupils (colored) . 10
" " Teachers . 4
Baptisms—adults 4, infants 7 ; totnl . n
Marriages . . . . 3
Burials—2 Adults, 1 Infant .... 3
Contributions.
Diocesan Missions paid Bishop . . • $26.00
For Mr. Shepherd's Church in East Tennessee JO.00
Sunday School Pupils for Library . . . $5.00
Offertory . . . .... 76.85
Contributions for Music and instruction of Choir are not
entered.
The prospects of the Church in Atlanta are promising.
EMANUEL CHURCH—ATHENS.
It is with deep regret, that the Senior Warden reports no
progress of Emanuel Church, for the past Conventional year '
The number of Communicants remains about the same as
last reported. The Sunday School was abandoned, and
the Church closed from the last of November, until the
last four week's, when it was most acceptibly opened by the
Rev. Dr. Henderson, of New Jersey, whose labors of christian
love, and efforts to awaken the proper interest, seem to have
been blest. We indulge the pleasing anticipation, that
under the direction of the Great I fend of the Church, he will
succeed in establishing a Church on the Apostolic foundation
in this town. The Sunday School has been revived, and tli*
number of children on last Sunday, amounted to sixty.
40
The Church is entirely out of debt, and by the kindness of
Mr. Baynard, we are in possession of a new and comfortable
parsonage, ready for occupation.
R. D. MOORE,
Sen. Warden, Emanuel Church.
ST. PETER'S CHURCH—ROME.
REV. WM. H. CLARKE, RECTOR.
Baptisms—infants white 1, colored 2; total . 3
Confirmations . . . • .7
Communicants reported in 1854 . . .34
" of these, connected Cave Spring 9, re¬
moved 7, died 1, withdrawn 2, added 10 ; pre¬
sent number . . . . . 25
Burials—infants white 1, colored 1 ; total . . 2
Contributions, since March 16th.
Communion Alms ... . $9.55
Monthly Offerings ..... 8.65
Total ...... $18.20
The present Rector took charge of this Parish on the 16th
of March, previous to which the official acts above reported,
with the exception of one baptism and one burial, were per¬
formed.
For the last two years but few public services have been
held in the Church, and the congregation has been consider¬
ably lessened by the removal of some families and the with¬
drawal of others, formerly belonging to it. While these cir¬
cumstances have tended to weaken the Parish, it has pleased
God to keep alive the zeal and devotion of the few Church
people remaining, and to increase their number by emigra
tion, until its prospects of life and growth are, at this time,
far more cheering than could have been expected under the
circumstances, and perhaps but little inferior to what they
were when the Rectorship became vacant.
41
ZION CHURCH—TALBOTTGN.
REV. W. P. GAHAGAN, RECTOR.
This Parish has been deprived of the services of its Rector,
for four months ; the Church having been closed in conse¬
quence of his ill health, ever since the first of January. This
report, therefore, embraces the result of his labors for about
two thirds of the year, only. There has been manifested a
deep interest in the Church, by many who have grown up
strangers to her services—while a few have come fully into
her Communion. The pews are all rented, and there is a
strong desire expressed, even by many not connected with
the Church, to have the benefit of her ministrations in their
community. The Church in Talbotton, no doubt, will be
sustained, though the health of its present Rector, may not
permit him to resume his labors at that point.
The Rector would take this opportunity of gratefully ac¬
knowledging the presentation of a service of Communion
Plate to the Church, by Master Robert Elliott, of Savannah.
The Church is also provided with a very handsome marble
Font, purchased by the ladies of the Parish.
Communicants, . . . . . 12
Pupils in Sunday School, . . • 25
Baptisms—adults 3 ; infants, white 4; total . . 7
Candidates for Confirmation, . ... 5
ST. PAUL'S CHURCH—ALBANY.
REV. J. H. GEORGE, RECTOR.
Communicants—whites 16 5 blacks 59 ; total . /5
Baptisms—adults, whites 1; blacks 3; " . 4
infants, " 3; « 3; " . . 6
Burials " " 2 ; adults, white 1; total . 3
Marriages "1 . • • • 1
Sunday School—pupils 25; teachers 4; total . .29
Confirmations—whites 1; blacks 18; total . .19
6
42
Contributions.
Communion Alms ....
To defray expenses of Bishop and Clergy at the
Consecration of the Church
To purchase Bell, &c. ....
For Foreign Missions
Total ..... $310 51
Although there are many adversaries, yet a wide door is
open to us, and the Church is steadily lengthening her cords
and strengthening her stakes. Fresh evidences are daily
springing up, that our labor is not in vain in the Lord. The
young, particularly, are becoming more and more interested
in the Church. Our Parish School, the chief support of the
Rector and his family, is beginning to exercise a powerful
religious influence in the whole community. The people are
asking for an enlargement of the plan, and urging the estab¬
lishment of a Seminary of high order. This we have thought
best to decline for the present, for the want of adequate
means, and content ourselves to move on gradually and
hasten slowly in the accomplishment of the great work be¬
fore us.
There is a gradual and felt improvement going on among
the servants of the plantations.
$10 51
40 00
250 00
10 00
CHURCH OF THE ATONEMENT—AUGUSTA.
REV. W. H. HARISON, RECTOR.
Baptisms—infants, . . . . .14
Confirmed, . .... 2
Communicants—died 2, removed 5, suspended 1, added 6, 20
Marriages, 5
Burials, 6
Sunday School Teachers, . . , .10
Scholars, , 74
43
Contributions.
Communion Alms, . $28 58
Weekly Offerings, . p . 116 22
Fund—Widows and Orphans, . . 9 37
" Episcopal, . . . . . 17 68
Special Collections, . . , 37 01
Total, $208 86
OGEECHEE MISSION.
REV. WM. C. WILLIAMS, MISSIONARY.
Baptisms—adults, colored 131; infants colored 18; total 149
Confirmed—colored . . . .148
Communicants—added 157; died 1 ; repelled 3; suspend¬
ed 1; withdrawn 5; present number . . 298
Marriages—colored . . . . 25
Burials—white, not of Mission, 1; colored 25; total . 26
Pupils connected with Mission Schools . . 330
Contributions.
Communion Alms . . . . $61.81
Oregon ...... 5.00
Foreign Missions . . . . 21.18
Total ..... $87.99
The results of the past year seem to the Missionary very
remarkable. The last report was full of hope and encourage¬
ment; but he was not prepared for the success that has at¬
tended his labors for the past year. Does it not afford
grounds for devout thanksgiving from the whole Church ?
May she not say "What hath God wrought?" "Be glad ye
children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God ; for he
hath given you the former rain, moderately, and he will
cause to come down for you the former rain, and the latter
rain." The only question can be "is the work permanent?"
44
The Missionary is aware of the impulsive character of the
people, among whom he labors—he is aware of the ignorance
and superstition existing among them—he is fully alive
to their want of stability. Had much success attended his
earlier efforts, he would feel that nothing but time could de¬
cide as to the real good accomplished. But in the present
case this is no sudden excitement. It has been a gradual
success. The first five years were years of darkness and
trial. Then success began, and has continued to increase
until it has reached its present result. It has therefore one
of the marks of permanence in being progressive. It seems
to be first the "blade, then the ear, and then the full corn in
the ear."
Still much remains to be done. Long and patient labor
will be required that these people may be "thoroughly furn¬
ished unto all good works."
Will not the Church then unite in devout thanksgiving to
the Father of Mercies for the rich blessings he hath vouch¬
safed her? Will she not pour forth heT earnest prayers and
supplications that this blessed work may go on, until "bond
and free shall become one fold, under the one true Shepherd,
Jesus Christ ? Will not her Sons and Daughters awake to
their own responsibilities in this matter, and seek to enter
into the door of usefulness, that God hath widely opened to
them, and never grow weary and faint until these children
of Africa shall all be partakers of the knowledge of the truth
as it is in Jesus, and be ready to join in the chants and anthems
of the Church,singing "Glory to God in the highest, on earth
peace, good will towards men."
Our Chapel has been completed, and on the 10th Febru¬
ary last was consecrated to the worship and service of Al¬
mighty God, under the name and style of St James. When
we commenced it, a year ago, our most sanguine expecta¬
tions led us to hop,e only for the shell of a building. But
one friend offered to build the vestry room—another furnished
the lectern—a third a surplice, and others the books. So
that now we have every thing complete, except a bell, and the
45
past mercies of God lead us confidently to believe, that if
necessary for the success of the work, friends will be found to
furnish it. The chief fault in our Chapel is that it is too
small. We built it the size of the former one, which was
never too crowded ; while onr present one has been repeated¬
ly filled to overflowing—many have been unable to gain ad¬
mittance.
SAVANNAH RIVER MISSION.
REV. S. W. KENNERLY, MISSIONARY.
This Mission formerly embraced a portion of the South
Carolina Diocese, lying across the river, opposite the City of
Savannah. In fact, the portion within tha South Carolina
Diocese, constituted over two-thirds of the Mission. The
Missionary finding it very difficult to attend both sides of the
river, was compelled to give up to the Bishop of South Caro¬
lina, that portion embraced within his Diocese ; which he did
the first of January last. A full report of everything pertain¬
ing to that portion of the Mission, was made by the Mission¬
ary, to the Convention of the South Carolina Diocese, in Feb¬
ruary last, and appears on its Journal.
In connection with the remaing portion of the Mission,
embraced within this Diocese, a Church was opened in the
City of Savannah, by the Bishop, for the exclusive benefit of
the colored people, in January last; and is under the charge
of the Missionary. It is known as St. Stephen's Chapel.
Through the praiseworthy zeal, and energetic industry of
several ladies of the Communions of Christ and St. John's
Churches, this Chapel has been neatly fittedup, and furnished
with every thing necessary for the worshipping of God "de¬
cently and in order." They will have their reward.
Services are held every Sabbath evening; the afternoon is
devoted to the Sabbath School. The prospects are far more
flattering than our most sanguine feelings had warranted us
46
to anticipate. The mornings of every Sabbath are devoted to
the Plantations under the Missionary's charge, in the vicinity
of the City.
The Sabbath School of St. Stephen's Chapel, numbers about
one hundred and eighty colored children. There are from
twelve to fifteen efficient Teachers. Including the children on
the Plantations, the number of children under regular cate¬
chetical instruction, may be set down at two hundred and
twenty.
The Missionary feels satisfied that the opening of a Church
in the City of Savannah, will in time have an important bear¬
ing upon the Church Missions, in the country adjacent. He
asks the prayers of Churchmen, and their hearty co-operation
in forwarding the-cause.
Communicants, - - - - -25
Baptisms—children 19, adult l, - - 20
Sunday School Pupils, - 220
Teachers, - - - - - 15
Marriages—1 white, - - - 2
Burials, - - - - 5
SAVANNAH CITY MISSION.
REV. JOHN T. PRYSE, MISSIONARY.
The Missionary entered on his duties in the beginning of
October last; and since that time, he has been engaged in
visiting numerous poor, destitute, and sick families in different
parts of the City, in order to minister to their spiritual and
temporal needs; the Missionary wishes, here, gratefully to
record the efficient co-operation afforded him by several
charitable and zealous ladies of Christ Church, who, upon
the recommendation of deserving cases, either ministered
personally to the wants of the sick and afflicted, or cheer¬
fully and readily supplied the means of relief. The Mis¬
sionary, as opportunity permitted, has also visited the Hospital,
and the Jail, for the religious instruction ot the inmates; and
47
besides acting as regular Superintendent of Christ Church
Sunday School, assisted at another Sunday School, established
among the poor, in the suburbs of the City, through the
commendable efforts of a few faithful gentlemen and ladies,
belonging to St. John's Church.
In addition to the above, the Missionary has, during the
last seven months, the period which this report comprises,
performed the following official duties :
Read Church Service, and assisted in the reading of Ser¬
vice, at divers places within the Diocese—twenty-nine times.
Preached at Christ Church, in the absence of the Bishop; also,
at St. John's Church, and other places—twenty-six times.—
Administered the Holy Communion to a sick person once,
and assisted in the administration of the Holy Communion,
on four other occasions. Baptised—children, whites, 2.
Married—whites, 3 couples. Buried—whites, 6.
The Missionary would here urge the necessity of having
some suitable places of worship, for the use of the Mission, in
order to the more efficient and successful promotion of its ob¬
jects, and express the hope, that through the christian gene
rosity of the Church-people of Savannah, generally, a Free
Church will, ere long, be erected in some eligible part of the
City, where those, who are now destitute of the means of
grace, may be gathered in, to enjoy the stated services of our
holy religion.
The undersigned, still engaged in the duties of teaching,
has no parochial charge; but has, as usual, assisted the
Rector of St. Paul's on Communion occasions, besides ren¬
dering occasional services to the Rectors of both Churches.
JOHN NEELY.
Augusta, May (i.
Abstract Parochial Reports-Diocese of Georgia,
C H i; it C H E
Chvbl, Savannah
St. Paul's Augusta
Christ, St. Simons
Christ, Macon.
Trinity. Columbus
Grace, Clarksville
St. John'*, Savannah
St. Stephen's, Milledgeville..
St. Luke's, Montpelier
St. Andrew's, Darien
St. David's, Gly nn
St. James', Marietta
Emanuel, Athens
St. Peter's, Rome
St. Phillip's, Atlanta
Zion, Talbotton
Advent, Madison
St. Paul's, Albany
Atonement, Augusta
Mesfiuh, St. Mary's
Ascension, Case County
The Good Shepherd, Cave Sp
St. James', Ogeechee
Savannah River Mission
Savannah City Mission
BAPTISMS
148
16412011369 2801326) 16146
COMMUNICANTS.
2 'r- ~
~ a
s 2-
38
14
10
157
249
154
65
133
119
20
166
16
10
91
65
60
27
25
42
121
14
75
20
35
6
9
298
25
10
CONTRIBUTIONS
1451
189
151
82
334
"20
25
00
00
00
285 00
70 00
"65*66
773 00
11 62
209 25
"5" 00
52 00
5 00
<f a
5" 5
880 50
53 00
104 75
238 00
190 00
"25*66
25 00
10 00
21 18
J!'1736181114212277 35>1475 8711547 4312137 08)6960 371! J398 lo'134'l499
820 00
398 79
221 00
11 50
429 91
10 65
*57*93
cr
1178 0(J
932 44
1:222*25
199 93
61 89
2221 36
20 00
592 57
28 00
9 55
76 85
10 51
28 58
61 81
8 65
25 0(1
290 00
180 2b
4614 50
1643 83
1767*50
1292 93
85 01
3384 77
"70*66
603 22
i82*93
18 20
127 85
310 51
208 86
87 99
S. Sch'ls
10
15
113
140
104
140
30
100
24
25
*50
60
'39
25
25
74
330
220
RECTORS.
Kt. Rev. S. Elliott
E. E. Ford, D. D.
E. P. Brown.
H. K. Kees.
W. H. Hawks.
S. J. Pinkerton.
^G. H. Clark.
G. Macauley.
'S. G. Bragg.
5. J. Pinkerton.
E. P. Brown.
H, E. Habersham.
W. H. Clarke.
R. Johnson.
VV. P. Geheghaa.
J. H. George.
W. H. Hanson.
W. C. Williams.
S. W. Kennerly.
J. T. Pryse.
The Assessments fcr the support of the Episcopate and for the Convpntion expenses, are not included in the above Abstract.
Dr.
James Camak, Treasurer, in account with Diocese of Georgia,
Cr.
1855-56.
May 10, Received from Trinity Church, Columbus, $'250 00
" " " " Christ Church, St. Simons 21 00
" 26, " " Church of the Atonement, Augusta,.. 15 00
June 30, " " Christ Church, Macon, 300 00
. Feb'ry 13, " " St. John's Church, Savannah, 250 00
March 26, " " Christ Church, Savannah, 625 00
" 27, " " St. James'Church, Marietta, 25 00
May 9, " " Christ Church, Savannah 375 00
" St. Paul's Church, Augusta, 500 00
" St. Andrew's Church, Darien, 25 00
" St. David's Church, Glynn County, 20 00
" St. Peter's Church, Rome, 10 00
9.
9,
10,
10.
10,
May
$2417 00
Balance Due Treasurer, 84 00
$2500 00
CONVENTION FUND.
10, Keceived from St. James' Church, Marietta, $13 60
10,
10,
10,
10,
10,
St. Luke's Church, Montpelier 3 40
St. Paul's Church, Augusta, 30 00
Christ Church, Macon, 2-J 20
St. John's Church, Savannah, 28 00
Trinity Church, Columbus, 21 60
$118 80
Balance due for Printing Journal of 18;>i 84 00
The Treasurer has received on account of the F mmanent Fund
for the support of the Episcopate, from Christ '"'nurch, Macon,..$45 00
From Church of the Atonement, Augusta,— 17 68
" St. Paul's Church, Augusta, 62 44
" Trinity Church, Columbus, 60 00
Total $1S5 12
1855-56.
By Cash paid Rt. Rev. the Bishop of the Diocese, salary to
May 1st, 1856, $2500 00
$2500 00
CONVENTION FUND.
By Cash paid W. T. Williams, part for Printing Journals
of 1853 $ 17 00
" " for Printing Journal of 1855, 101 80
$118 80
Dr.
Missionary Committee Diocese of Georgia, in account with J. S. Hutton, Tr.
Cr.
To Cash paid Rev. E. P. Brown, No.l.... 30,00
" " " J. H. Linebaugh 2.... 80,00
" " " B. F. Mower 3 78,50
" " " W. H. Harison 4.... 70,00
" " " W. J. Perdue 5.... 45,00
" " " Geo. Macauley 6.... 55,00
" " " W. P.Gahagan 7....118,09
" In bands of Treasurer 578,37
$1,049,96
Balance due on 1st May, 1856.
To Rev. E. P. Brown, St. Simon's 80,00
" " W. H. Hanson, Augusta 205,00
" " Geo. Macauley, Milledgeville 80,00
" " W. P. Gahagan, Talbotton 301,91
" Mr. J. H. Linebaugh, late of Athens, 91,67
By Cash from Christ Church, Savannah 107,35
" " St. John's Church, Savannah 259,25
" " Christ Church, Macon 154,50
" " St. Luke's Church, Montpelier 20,00
" " Grace Church, Clarkesville 66,66
" " Christ Church, St. Simons 25,00
" " St. Paul's Church, Augusta 188,99
" " St. James Church, Marietta 10,00
" " Trinity Church, Columbus 82,00
u •' St. Andrew's Church, Darien 25,42
" On hand last report 110,79
$1,049,96
1856.
May 10. By Cash on hand $573,37
E. E. J. S. HUTTON, J reus.
$758,68
CONSTITUTION
OF THE
^rntp0tflnt Cpisropl Cjmrrjj
IN THE
BIOCESE OF GEORGIA.
Article I. The Church of this Diocese, as a constituent
part of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States
of America, accedes to, recognizes and adopts, the general
Constitution of that Church, and acknowledges its authority
accordingly.
Art. II. A Convention of this Church shall be held at such
time of each year and place as the previous Convention may
appoint, provided, however, that no Convention shall be
opened for the transaction of business unless there be present
at least two clergymen, and delegates from two congregations.
And in case no Convention be formed, the standing officers
of the last Convention shall hold their respective offices until
successors shall be appointed.
Art. III. The Bishop, or, if the Episcopate be vacant,
the Standing Committee, shall have power, when it appears
requisite for the good of the Church, to call a Special Con¬
vention, by a circular letter to the several Churches. There
shall not be less than four weeks notice previous to the day
appointed, and such meeting shall be holden where the au¬
thority calling it shall determine, and at such Special Con¬
vention, no other business shall be transacted than that stated
in the notice calling the Convention.
Art. IV. The Convention shall be composed of Clergy¬
men and Laymen. Every Clergyman in good standing, reg¬
ularly settled, and continuously exercising clerical functions
in any existing Parish or who shall have been for six months
52
last past performing missionary duties under the direction of
the ecclesiastical authority of this Diocese, shall be entitled to
the privileges of a member of this Convention; and every
duly recognized Minister of this Church canonically resident
for six months last past within the Diocese, being engaged
in the business of literary instruction, or disabled by reason
of age or infirmity from exercising clerical functions, shall be
entitled to all the privileges of a member of the Convention,
with the exception of a right to vote. Each church or con¬
gregation in union with this Convention shall be entitled to a
representation by one Lay Delegate or more, not exceeding
three, to be chosen from its own body, by the Wardens and
Vestrymen thereof; provided, however, that the Minister, or,
in his absence, the Delegate or Delegates present at any Con¬
vention, may supply any vacancy in the Delegation, if he or
they should find, at the place of meeting, a member or mem¬
bers of the congregation which they are empowered to rep¬
resent.
Art. V.—New Parishes may be admitted into union with
this Convention by a majority of votes ; provided, that they
shallhave laid before the Convention, written evidence, sub¬
scribed by the Wardeus, that they accede to the Constitution
and Canons of this Church, and are regularly organized by
the election of two Wardens, and any number of Vestrymen
at discretion, not exceeding eight.
Art. VI.—Every meeting of the Convention shall be
opened with Morning Prayer, and a Sermon,delivered on the
first day of the Convention, by a Preacher appointed at the
preceding Convention ; a Sermon on Missions shall also be
preached some time during the sitting of each Convention,
1 -;n a collection shall be made in aid of Missions within the
' -ese. The appointment of both Preachers, with substi-
t 3, shall be made by the Bishop, or, in^his absence, by the
President of the Convention.
Art. VII.—The Convention shall deliberate and act as one
body, unless when any member shall call for a division on
any question, in which case, each clerical member shall be
53
entitled to one vote, and the lay delegates of each congrega¬
tion jointly to one vote ; and a majority of both orders shall
be necessary to a decision.
Art. VIII.—The Bishop of the Diocese shall be ex-officio
President of the Convention. In case there be no Bishop,
or, in his absence, a presiding officer shall be elected from
among the clerical members present.
Art. IX.—At each annual meeting of the Convention, a
Secretary and Treasurer shall be chosen, to hold their res¬
pective offices until the next annual Convention, or until suc¬
cessors shall be appointed. It shall be the duty of the Treas¬
urer to receive, or cause to be received, at each annual Con¬
vention, the assessments upon the Parishes of the Diocese for
defraying the incidental expenses of the Convention and the
support of the Episcopate—and also to pay the Bishop quar¬
terly, in advance, the amount of salary pledged to him by this
Convention ; making a faithful return of all these his acts in
his annual report to the Convention of this Church.
Art. X.—A Standing Committee shall be chosen at each
annual meeting of this Convention, to consist of three clerical
and three lay members ; of the time and place of whose meet¬
ings due notice in writing shall be given to all the members
thereof, at least one week before the time of such meeting.
At a meeting thus notified, any four members shall consti¬
tute a quorum. The Standing Committee shall meet as soon
as practible after their election, and choose a President and
Secretary from among their own number, and it shall be the
duty of the President to call a meeting of the committee when¬
ever he shall be required to do so by any three members of
the committee. Vacancies in this committee caused by death,
resignation, or otherwise, shall be supplied by the suffrages
of the remaining members.
Art. XI. The Convention shall triennially, at the session
immediately preceding the meeting of the General Conven¬
tion elect four Clergymen and four Laymen, as Deputies to
the General Convention. The Deputies so elected shall be
authorized to represent this Diocese, in that, or any special
54
General Convention, till their successors are chosen. They
shall be empowered, in the absence of one or more of their
colleagues, to appoint, in the place of such delegate or dele¬
gates, any citizen or citizens of this State ; provided, that such
citizen or citizens be a member or members of the Protestant
Episcopal Church in this Diocese; or, if it be inconvenient
for any delegate or delegates to proceed to the place of meet¬
ing, the Bishop is authorized to appoint others in their place.
In case of a vacancy in the Episcopate, the power hereby
conferred on the Bishop shall be exercised by the Standing
Committee.
Art. XII.—A proposition for altering and amending this
Constitution shall be introduced in writing, and considered
in Convention, and if approved by a majority, shall lie over
to the next Covention, when upon consideration again, if it
be approved by a majority of the Convention, it shall be
adopted.
Art. XIII.—In all elections by ballot, a majority of votes
shall be required for a choice.
Canon I.—Each Church duly represented in the Conven¬
tion shall pay, or cause to be paid, into the hands of the
Treasurer of the Convention, the sum of twenty cents for
each white communicant annually, for defraying the inci¬
dental expenses of the Convention.
Canon II.—In case any clergyman of this Diocese shall be
accused of error in doctrine, immorality of life, or neglect, or
transgression of any of the Canons of the Protestant Episco¬
pal Church in the United States, or this Diocese, it shall be
the duty of any two or more clergymen, or of the wardens
CANONS.
55
and vestrymen of the Church of which he is Rector, or to
which he may belong, who shall have knowledge or belief
of such misdemeanor, to represent the same to the Bishop,
or, in case there be no Bishop, to the Standing Committee of
the Diocese. In the event of such representation, it shall be
the duty of the Bishop, or, if there be no Bishop, the Stand¬
ing Committee, if he or they shall deem the charge or charges
worthy of investigation, forthwith to notify the accused of
such charges, together with the time and place appointed for
trial. The mode of trial shall be as follows: The Bishop or
Standing Committee, as the case may be, shall appoint a
number of Presbyters, not less than five, of whom the person
accused may select a majority, by whom to be tried. The
result of the trial shall be made known to the Bishop, or if
there be no Bishop, to the Standing Committee, who shall
pronounce and execute, or cause to be pronounced and exe¬
cuted, such sentence as may be awarded, should the same by
him or them be deemed just and proper.
Should the sentence be suspension or degradation from the
Ministry, the Bishop, or Provisional Bishop, or should there
be none, some neighboring Bishop, shall be required to pro¬
nounce the same.
Should it be impossible to obtain from the Diocese the re¬
quisite number of Presbyters to constitute a board of trial,
the deficiency may be supplied from a neighboring Diocese.
Should any clergyman, accused and cited for trial accord¬
ing to the provisions of this Canon, neglect or refuse to obey
the citation, such neglect or refusal shall be considered as an
acknowledgment of the truth of the charges preferred against
him, and sentence shall be pronounced accordingly.
Canon III. The Convention shall appoint annually, by
ballot, a committee of two clergymen and three laymen, of
which committee the Bishop of the Diocese, when there is
one, shall be ex-officio chairman ; whose duty it shall be to
take in charge the Missionary, Bible, Common Prayer Book,
Tract and Sunday School operations of the Church in this
Diocese; and it shall be further the duty of this committee to
56
make a full report of all their proceedings to each succeeding
annual Convention.
Canow IV. It shall be the duty of the Vestry of each
Church in connection with this Diocese, to pay, or cause to
be paid, into the hands of the Treasurer of the Convention,
at each annual meeting of the Convention, the amount of
the assessment laid upon the churches respectively represented
by them for the support of the Episcopate of this Diocese.
Canon. V. Section 1. Whenever any number of persons
shall associate to form an Episcopal congregation, they shall
adopt articles of association for their government, in which
they shall acknowledge and accede to the constitution, canons,
doctrines, discipline and worship of the Protestant Episcopal
Church in the United States, and the constitution and canons
of the Diocese of Georgia; they shall assume a suitable
name by which their Church or Parish shall be designated,
and elect two Wardens and any number of Vestrymen, at
discretion, not exceeding eight. A certified copy of the ar¬
ticles of association and of the proceedings at their adoption,
signed by the Wardens, shall then be laid before the Conven¬
tion, and if approved by that body, delegates from such
congregation or Parish may take seats in the Convention,
and the congregation shall be considered as united to the
Convention, and subject to its decisions.
Section 2. The election of Wardens and Vestrymen in
every Parish thus constituted, shall take place annually on
Easter Monday, unless some other time be specified in the
act of incorporation, with the assent of the ecclesiastical
authority of the Diocese.
RULES OF ORDER.
Rule 1. The business of each day shall be introduced
by the Order for Daily Morning Prayer and a Sermon.
Rule 2. When the President takes the chair, no mem¬
ber shall continue standing, or shall stand up, unless to
address the chair.
Rule 3. The order of doing business in the Convention
shall be as follows :
1. The appointment of a Secretary by ballot.
2. The appointment of the Committees of the Conven¬
tion, and Special Committees.
3. The Annual Address of the Bishop.
4. The reading oi the Parochial Reports.
5. Reports from the Committees of the Diocese.
6. Reports from the Treasurers.
7. Reports from Committees appointed at the last Con¬
vention.
8. Reports from Committees.
9. Elections by ballot, of Treasurers, Standing Commit¬
tee of the Diocese, Diocesan Missionary Commit¬
tee, and Deputies to the General Convention.
Rule 4. When any member is about to speak in debate,
or present any matter to the Convention, he shall, with due
respect address himself to the President, confining himself
strictly to the point in debate.
Rule 5. No member shall absent himself from the ser¬
vice of the Convention unless he have leave, or be unable to
attend.
Rule 6. No member shall speak more than twice in the
same debate, without leave of the Convention.
Rule 7. A question, being once determined, shall stand
as the judgement of the Convention, and shall not be drawn
into debate the same session, unless with the consent of two-
8
58
thirds of the Convention: provided, always, that any mem¬
ber of the Convention voting in favor of any question, may,
-OH the same day in which the vote is taken, or on the suc¬
ceeding day, move a reconsideration of said vote.
Rule 8.—No motion shall be debated, or shall be consider¬
ed as before the Convention, unless seconded, reduced to wri¬
ting, and read by the Secretary.
Rule 9.—When a motion is under consideration, no other
motion shall be made, except to amend, to divide, to commit,
or to postpone; a motion to adjourn, however, shall always be
in order, and shall be decided without debate.
Rule 10.—A question on amendment shall be decided be¬
fore the original motion.
Rule 11.—Every member who shall be present when the
question is put, shall vote, unless personally interested, or
excused by the Convention from voting.
Rule 12.—When the Convention is about to rise, or ad¬
journ, every member shall keep his seat until the President
shall leave the chair.
STANDING RESOLUTIONS.
Eoir ilrobiding 3 UeHnwnf Ewd folr tye Support of the
JSpiscopqie,
Adopted 1856.
Resolved, That as it is important that the formation of a
permanent fund for the support of the Episcopate in this
Diocese be prosecuted earnestly, each Rector of a Parish is
instructed annually on the 2nd Sunday, after Easter, to call
the attention of his parishoners to the subject, and invite con¬
tributions to the object, in such mode as he may deem most
expedient.
59
Resolved, That the Convention elect, at each, annual meet¬
ing, a Treasurer of the Episcopal Fund ; who shall invest the
same in his discretion, until the further order of this Conven¬
tion, and who shall report the state of said fund, and how
invested at each annual meeting.
OF THE ORGANIZATION OF NEW PARISHES,
ADOPTED 1842.
Resolved, That in the organization of new Parishes, the
following form of declaration be recommended, and the meet¬
ing in which it is adopted be held and conducted according
to the provision of Canon V:
"We, the subscribers, assembled for the purpose of organi¬
zing a Church, (or Parish,) of the Protestant Episcopal
Church in county of and State of Georgia,
after due notice given, do hereby agree to form a Church (or
Parish) to be known by the name of Church,
and as such, do hereby acknowledge and accede to the doc¬
trine, discipline and worship, the constitution and canons of
the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of
^jngrica, and the constitution and canons of the same Church
in the Diocese of Georgia; and we do accordingly appoint A
B and C D to be the first Wardens, and E F, G H, I J, to be
the first Vestrymen of Church, to continue in office
until Easter Monday, A. D. , and until others be chosen in
their place. And an election of Wardens and Vestrymen
shall hereafter be held on Easter Monday of each successive
year.
"Witness our hands at county of ,and State
of Georgia, this day of in the yeaI of our
Lord
60
ON THE USE OF I'll MEN.
ADOPTED 1842.
On motion, it was unanimously—Resolved, That it be re¬
commended to the Vestries of our Churches in this Diocese
to discourage the use of the Churches under their care for all
"unhallowed, worldly, and common uses."
THE STYLE MD TITLE OF CHURCHES.
The proper style for a duly incorporated congregation is,
"The Rector, Church Wardens and Vestry, (or else the Church
Wardens and Vestry) of Church in the first
blank being left for the name of the church, the other for
that of the place.
FORM OF 1 CERTIFICATE.
This certifies, that at a meeting of the Rector, Wardens
and Vestry, (or Wardens and Vestry, if no Rector were
present) of , held on the day of , the
following person, (or persons, as the case may be,) viz: K,
L, M, N, and 0 P, were duly elected to represent this Church
in the next Convention of this Diocese, to be held in
on the day of , 18 .
The above certificate shall be signed by the Rector, if
present, or in his absence, by one of the Wardens or by the
Secretary of the Vestry.
RIGHT REV. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR., D. D.,
BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE OF GEORGIA.
Post Office—Savannah.
REV. EDWARD E. FORD, D. D., AUGUSTA,
PRESIDENT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE.
- i **"
REV. WM. C. WILLIAMS, SAVANNAH,
SECRETARY OF THE CONVENTION.
—
MR. J. MONGIN SMITH, MARIETTA,
TREASURER OF THE DIOCESE.
MR. J. S. HUTTON, SAVANNAH,
TREASURER OF THE MISSIONARY COMMITTEE.
DR. JAMES CAMAK, ATHENS,
TREASURER OF EPISCOPAL FUND.
The next Convention of the Church will be held in Trinity
Church, Columbus, commencing on Thursday after the first
Monday in May, 1857.