FROM THE LIBRARY OF 
 REV. LOUIS FITZGERALD BENSON. D. D. 
 
 BEQUEATHED BY HIM TO 
 
 THE LIBRARY OF 
 
 PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY 
 
 Division S^CL 
 Sectioa /Ol 
 
7 
 
 APR 8 1932 ( 
 
 MINUTE S%n [c,n^ 
 
 OF THE 
 
 ANNUAL MEETINGS 
 
 BRETHREN". 
 
 DESIGNED FOR THE 
 
 PROMOTION OF THE PEACE AND HARMONY 
 
 BROTH ERHOOD 
 
 PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF THE ANNUAL MEETING 
 MAY 26-27, 1874. 
 
 sS 
 
 x/ 
 
 o 
 
 PUBLISHED BY THE COMMITTEE. 
 DAYTON, OHIO: 
 
 PRINTED BY THE CHRISTIAN PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION. 
 
 187G. 
 
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1876, by 
 
 H. D. DAVY AND J. QUIXTER, 
 In the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 A number of our younger brethren having a desire to 
 have the counsels of the older brethren, as given at our 
 Annual Meetings, as a help to them in forming a correct 
 judgment upon things upon which it is desirable they 
 should have correct and uniform views, and to know what 
 has been the order of the church in regard to such things, 
 requested the Annual Meeting to have the minutes collected 
 and published. The request was granted, and the under- 
 signed were appointed a committee to carry out the wish of 
 the Annual Meeting. We have used our best endeavors to 
 collect all the minutes of our Annual Meetings that we 
 possibly could collect, and now publish them in response 
 to the request of the church. 
 
 "We have thought it best to publish the minutes of each 
 year separately, and to give the names of the brethren, as 
 far as we could do so, who have taken an active part in the 
 labors of our Annual Meetings — thinking it'would be sat- 
 isfactory to the brethren to have this knowledge. 
 
 The work is now sent out with a prayerful desire that it 
 may prove a blessing, and a means of edification to our 
 brotherhood. 
 
 H. D. Davy. 
 
 J. QUINTER. 
 
MINUTES 
 
 Annual Meetings of the Brethren, 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1778. 
 
 After much, reflection, in the fear of the Lord, it has 
 been concluded in union, that the brethren who have taken 
 the attest should recall it before a justice, and give up their 
 certificate, and recall and apologize in their churches, and 
 truly repent for the error. If they can not do this, and 
 will justify themselves, the apostle exhorts us we should 
 withdraw ourselves from every brother who walketh dis- 
 orderly, and such a brother will be deprived of the kiss of 
 fellowship, of the counsel, and the breaking of bread, until 
 he becomes obedient again. Ministers and elders who 
 have taken the attest, and are sorry and grieved for it, 
 confessedly recall the matter before the justice of the peace, 
 and in the public church, counsel shall be held about them 
 in their churches in presence of one or more ministers or over- 
 seers to consider, in the fear of the Lord, whether he or 
 such as before mentioned could serve again in their 'office. 
 But if such minister or elder should approve himself stub- 
 bornly, and justify his course, yea, even teach the same, 
 then we can not comprehend how he can be obedient to 
 the Spirit of Truth, which teaches we shall not touch the 
 unclean thing, nor be unequally yoked together with un- 
 believers, because Christ has no concord with Belial. There- 
 
6 MINUTES OF 
 
 fore, we decide that such laborers are unfit in the Lord's- 
 vineyard, and also unfit to be members in the church of 
 the living God, until their minds are changed, and they 
 speak again with new tongues, or find their hearts with 
 David. May God have mercy upon us ! 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1779. 
 
 On account of taking the attest, it has been concluded 
 in union as follows: Inasmuch as it is the Lord our God 
 who establishes kings and removes kings, and ordains- 
 rulers according to his own good pleasure, and we can not 
 know whether God has rejected the king and chosen the 
 state, while the king had the government ; therefore we 
 could not, with a good conscience, repudiate the king and 
 give allegiance to the state. And it seems to us that tho-se- 
 who have done so have committed a fault, on account of 
 which fault we could not break bread with them, but bear 
 with them in love. But, if they would come moved by 
 tbeir own conviction, and would make acknowledgments, 
 being truly repentant, then we might forgive them, and we 
 believe God would also forgive them, and we might break 
 bread with them. But in regard to the laborers (ministers),, 
 we think they should stand still in their labor, and not bap- 
 tize or administer in the breaking of bread. Should they,, 
 however, come convinced in themselves to have erred, and 
 show contrition, saying, "We are sorry/' then we might 
 forgive them, and be in full fellowship with them, yet, so 
 that the church to which he belongs is satisfied with him,. 
 when he should continue in his office. But if such go still 
 further in this matter, as holding office (political) and so- 
 forth, show no sorrow, and rather continue in such course, 
 then they should be also deprived of the church council 
 and holy kiss, and nota bene, not only the ministers, but all 
 who have taken this course. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF TEE ERETHREN. 7 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1781. 
 
 Article I. Inasmuch, at the big meeting at Conestoga, 
 last year, it has been unanimously concluded that we should 
 not pay the substitute money ; but inasmuch as it has been 
 overlooked here and there, and some have not regarded 
 it (sad conclusion), therefore we, the assembled brethren, 
 exhort in union all brethren in all places to hold themselves 
 guiltless, and take no part in war or blood-shedding, which 
 might take place if we would pay for hiring men volun- 
 tarily; or more still, if we would become agents to collect, 
 such money. And inasmuch some brethren have received 
 written orders to tell the people, and afterwards collect 
 (such money), accompanied by a threat of a heavy fine — 
 we exhort heartily, not to be scared to do that which is 
 not right. Still, we exhort, also, heartily, that if a brother 
 should be fined, there should be provision made for such 
 brethren, and assistance rendered as far as concerns money. 
 In case a brother or his son should be drafted, that he or 
 his son should go to war, and he could buy himself or 
 his son from it, such would not be deemed so sinful, 
 yet it should not be given voluntarily, without compul- 
 sion. But where this has been overlooked, and the sub- 
 titute-money has been voluntary, and (the brother) should 
 acknowledge his mistake from the heart, and repent it, 
 the church might be satisfied with him. But when a 
 brother bears his testimony that he can not give his money 
 on account of his conscience, and would say to the col- 
 lector, "If thou must take it, then use your authority ; I 
 shall not be in your way," — with such brother we should 
 be also satisfied. But concerning the tax, it is considered 
 that on account of the troublesome times (1781, the fifth 
 year of the Revolutionary War), and in order to avoid of- 
 fense, we might follow the example of Christ (Matt. xvn. 
 24-27), yet if one does not see it so, and thinks, perhaps, 
 he, for his conscience' sake could n<5t pay it, but bear with 
 
8 MINUTES OF 
 
 others who pay in patience, we would willingly leave it 
 over, inasmuch we deem the overruling of the conscience 
 as wrong. 
 
 Art. 2. Concerning distilleries, we heartily counsel all 
 brethren who have distilleries, that they should by all 
 means endeavor to put them away, in order to escape from 
 the evil so often arising from them, and to avoid offense, 
 and in this the brethren are still entirely united with the 
 conclusion made at Pipe Creek, three years ago. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1782. 
 
 Concerning the unchristian negro slave trade, it has been 
 unanimously considered that it can not be permitted in any 
 wise by the church, that a member should or could purchase 
 negroes, or keep them as slaves. But concerning Brother 
 John Van L., who had bought a considerable time since a 
 negro wench, and the same has given birth already, during 
 that time, to four children by fornication, it is the united 
 and cordial counsel of the brethren that the said Brother L. 
 shall let the old negro wench go free from this time on, and 
 shall tell her that she is free ; but if she will not leave him 
 after he has given her liberty, then he may enter with her 
 into a contract for her wages. But this setting free or 
 emancipation shall be done before some brethren, as wit- 
 nesses of the transaction. Concerning the children, it is 
 also unitedly considered that he is to give the children free 
 at the age of twenty-one years, and is to have them schooled 
 and provided with (food), raiment, and-bedding during the 
 time, as it is just and proper; and when they are twenty- 
 one years old he is to give them a free (new) dress. Still 
 it is our cordial desire and counsel that if the old negro 
 wench would not like to go away, he (who was her master) 
 should use all diligence to prevent such unchaste life, and 
 lay it before her earnestly, and if she would be free to give 
 her her free papers, etc. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 9 
 
 AX X UAL MEETING OF 1783. 
 
 Article 1. At this great meeting a unanimous conclusion 
 was laid down with, regard to the very offensive evil which 
 has endeavored to gain ground in the church, and by which 
 already much mischief has been done, while the brotherly 
 counsel has been repeatedly given that distilleries (of ardent 
 spirits) in the church (among members) should be put away. 
 And since there are still, from time to time, more erected, it 
 has been at this time unanimously concluded that those 
 brethren who have distilleries should be earnestly admon- 
 ished to put them out of the way; and when they have been 
 admonished in sincere love once and again, and they would 
 not obey the counsel of the church and not put away this 
 loathsome idol, we could not break the bread of communion 
 with them, and have to withdraw, also, the kiss and church 
 council from them until they are willing again to hear the 
 church, as they have promised also at first, at their baptism, 
 before God and many witnesses. 
 
 Art. 2. Concerning taking interest, it is considered that 
 no member should take interest for his money, inasmuch in 
 the law of God it was expressly forbidden, and Christ sa} r s 
 that the Scripture can not be broken (John x. 35) ; and inas- 
 much the dear and chosen vessel and faithful apostle, Paul, 
 says that Christ became the end of the law, and yet the 
 word of God, and also divine knowledge teaches that in 
 order to become partakers of Christ it is required to deny 
 ourselves entirely of all those things which are contrary to 
 the word and command of God ; therefore, we exhort again 
 heartily and unitedly, that such members who might be 
 involved in this point should think of better things, and 
 have more regard and respect for their denied Lord Jesus 
 and his truth, and wish them faith and the grace of God 
 heartily. 
 
10 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1785. 
 
 Article 1. Our cordial and united wish and greeting of 
 love and peace to the beloved members, brethren and sisters 
 on South Branch, especially to the loving brethren, Valen- 
 tine Power and Martin Power, and all the members iu your 
 vicinity. We wish you all much grace and peace from God 
 the Father, through Jesus Christ his dear Son, to be faith- 
 ful to him from the bottom of the heart, according to the 
 guidance and direction of his holy and good Spirit, even 
 unto a blessed and God-pleasing end. Amen. Inasmuch 
 as we have in part seen, and also heard, that there has 
 arisen some difference in several doctrines among some 
 brethren of your church and others, and having also seen 
 the letter of the loving brother, Valentine Power, which he 
 has written to the big meeting, and heard from it his views 
 about " carrying on war," which are to be proved especially 
 from the words of Peter (I. Peter n. 13, 14), so we have con- 
 sidered and weighed the matter in union, and we trust in 
 the fear of the Lord; but yet, for the sake of the word of 
 God, we could not agree with such view, because we do not 
 see it so, and do not understand so the loving Peter in that 
 self-same chapter, nor in his other discourses; but God 
 grant that we may be directed according to his good 
 pleasure. 
 
 First, we do not understand at all, from the words of 
 Feter alluded to, that we* can give ourselves up to do vio- 
 lence, or that we should submit to the higher powers in 
 such a manner as to make ourselves their instruments to 
 shed men's blood, however it might be done. It is indeed 
 difficult to believe that Peter, what he teaches in one place 
 should have rejected in another place; therefore we can not 
 understand him thus, but that his mind and admonition to 
 "submit to every ordinance of man," etc., is something 
 different. The question arises, How far or wherein are we 
 to submit ourselves? and this question the loving Peter 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE ERETHREN. 11 
 
 may answer himself. We find (Acts v. 28) that the higher 
 power to which Peter and John were subjects had com- 
 manded them straitly (in our German version, earnestly) 
 that they should not teach in this name (the name of Jesus) 
 any more, hut they (the apostles) did not obey herein. 
 And when they were asked again, "Did we not straitly 
 command you," etc., then Peter and the apostles answered 
 and said, "We ought to obey God rather than men.'' It 
 will be well, whfcn we attend always to the sense of Holy 
 Writ strictly; and in the very same chapter of Peter 
 alluded to, we see clearly that Peter exhorts for conscience 
 toward God to endure grief and to suffer wrongfully, and 
 says even that Christ became in this our example, that we 
 should follow his steps. Now, we see that Christ always, 
 in all his sufferings, endured them, and that with great 
 patience, and never resisted or defended himself; but, as 
 Exeter says, "he committed himself to him that judgeth 
 righteously." We see farther that our loving Savior, 
 though innocent, was attacked in a murderous manner by 
 just such men as Brother P. has mentioned in his letter; 
 but the Savior stood fast in the covenant of faithfulness, 
 as the brother stated. In a murderous, manner he was 
 attacked, and Peter was quick and ready to draw his sword 
 according to the legal justice of God, and struck a servant, 
 and smote off his ear. But what says the Savior : " Put up 
 again thy sword into his place ; for all they that take the 
 sword shall perish with the sword." Here, indeed, was the 
 greatest necessity (for self-defense), but all this time the 
 Savior resisted not; but he suffered patiently, and even 
 healed the one whose ear was smote off, acting as it is writ- 
 ten: "The righteous shall live by faith;" and again: "I 
 believe, theretore I speak," etc. Thus our Savior had said 
 before, "That ye resist not evil;" for so he believed, and 
 thus he spake, and thus he did. 
 
 Further says the loving Savior: "He that believeth on 
 me, as the Scripture has said," etc. Now we will consider 
 a little what already at that time the Scripture was teach 
 
12 MINUTES OF 
 
 ing about Christ aud his kingdom; so we see that the holy 
 man of God, Isaiah, says of the time of Christ: "They 
 shall beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears 
 into pruning-hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against 
 nation, neither shall they learn war any more." Isa. n. 4. 
 Again says Isaiah (ix. 5, German version) : "All war, with 
 confused noise and garments rolled in blood, shall be burut 
 with fire," etc. So we believe where that fire which Christ 
 came to kindle, where that fire burns, there will be burnt 
 all war, as predicted; for the love to God constrains to the 
 obedience of his commandments, as John teaches, and as 
 Christ requires and says, " If ye love me, keep my command- 
 ments;" aud his commandments aim throughout at non- 
 resistance. 
 
 So we hope the dear brethren will not take it amiss when 
 we, from all these passages of Scripture, and especially from 
 the words of Peter, can not see or find any liberty to use 
 any (carnal) sword, but only the sword of the Spirit, which 
 is the word of God, by which we cast down imaginations 
 and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowl- 
 edge of God, aud bring into captivity every thought to the 
 obedience of Christ, as Paul (II. Cor. x. 5) says. 
 
 But that the higher powers bear the sword of justice, 
 punishing the evil and protecting the good, in this we 
 acknowledge them from the heart as the ministers of God. 
 But the sword belongeth to the kingdom of the world, and 
 Christ says to his disciples : " I have chosen you from the 
 world," etc. Thus we understand the beloved Peter, that 
 we are to submit ourselves in all things that are not con- 
 trary to the will or command of God, aud no further. 
 
 Aud as to the swearing of oaths, we believe the word of 
 Christ, that in all things which we are to testify, we shall 
 testify what is yea, or what is true with yea, aud what is 
 nay, or not true with nay; for whatsoever is more than 
 these cometh of evil. And herewith we will conclude for 
 this. This we intended to send you in writing with our 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 13 
 
 dear brethren Daniel Leathermau, and Jacob Danner, and 
 Henry Danner. 
 
 "Written May 15, 1785, at the big meeting on Big Cone- 
 wago, from your brethren, united in love, Jacob Saur, Val- 
 entine Pressel, Mich. Bosserman, Martin Reinhart, David 
 Studebaker, Peter Dierdorf, Martin Urner, Jacob Stoll, 
 Christian Longenecker, Henry NefT, Lorenz Beckner, 
 Philip Lewig. 
 
 Art. 2. Further it was discussed, and unanimously con- 
 sidered, that no brother should permit his sons to go on 
 the muster ground, much less that a brother go himself. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1788. 
 
 Article I. Resolved, unanimously, that hereafter no 
 member of the church, whether brother or sister, under no 
 pretext whatever, should go from church to church, or 
 from house to house, to collect alms ; but where there is 
 any want or distress of a member (greater than the church 
 to which he or she belongs is able to relieve), the church 
 shall state the case in writing, and send it to the next 
 church, if necessary by the member himself, and if in that 
 church full relief could not be obtained, the writing should 
 be renewed until relief is accomplished, if even it were 
 necessary to call upon all the churches. And we deem it 
 proper that every church should state on the writing how 
 much is yet lacking. 
 
 Art. 2. The next was almost equally important, inas- 
 much it has happened that members have moved from one 
 section of the country to another, and improprieties had 
 been committed by them in the place from whence they 
 moved, which are such as reflect no honor on the doctrine 
 of the Lord, nor either on (our) Christian profession, so 
 that we had to withdraw from them the kiss of charity, 
 
14 MINUTES OF 
 
 and they concealed this at the place where they had moved 
 to, and sometimes it was discovered afterward, so that of- 
 fense of tender minds might result therefrom ; we conclude, 
 likewise, and find it more proper and perfect, that such 
 removing family or member should bring a certificate from 
 the church where they leave, to the church to which they 
 move. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1789. 
 
 Article 1. At the council meeting of the brethren it 
 was in union deemed good and necessary, and we feel it 
 also to be our duty, to counsel as follows : Inasmuch we 
 deem it our duty, obligation, and office to see to it that 
 union, tranquility, and peace be maintained, that all should 
 be united and of one mind, so that we may, according to 
 the commandment of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, 
 love one another sincerely, and be enabled to love as he 
 has given us a commandment, by which it shall be known 
 that we are his disciples ; therefore, it is our desire that 
 every grievance and every offense might be put out of the 
 way ; and inasmuch there is a grievance and offense on 
 account of the distilleries of ardent spirits, because the 
 old brethren could not allow them, and sad experience has 
 taught us that almost whole families are gone to destruc- 
 tion, and the children have fallen into drunkenness and a 
 rowdy life, the brethren some years ago came to the con- 
 clusion that they should be done away. But this has not 
 yet been done; but there have been more bought and 
 established since, and the evil is-still growing. This makes 
 a grievance and offense, that hardly one church can break 
 bread with the other, and as has happened already, that 
 brethren out of love had come a considerable distance, but 
 when they saw that brethren who had distilleries went to 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 15 
 
 communion, they had to remain away, and go home again 
 in grief, because they had not been able to partake of the 
 memorial of the death of our Lord Jesus Christ, on ac- 
 count of this grievous and offensive thing. Thus grief, 
 disunion, and division are brought upon the church. For 
 this cause we beseech earnestly all brethren who have dis- 
 tilleries to be diligent to put them away; and hereby 
 exhort in heartfelt and humble love, all our much beloved 
 fellow laborers in God, to use herein diligence in admon- 
 ishing each member to obey this counsel of love, so that 
 peace, love, and union may be planted and restored. But 
 whosoever is not willing to deny himself, as it should be 
 indeed, and can not or will not, out of love, obey this our 
 loving counsel, then we can not consider him otherwise 
 but as such who has not yet died (to sin), and is not yet 
 risen with Christ in newness of life, and that he seeks more 
 the things temporal than eternal; more the things on earth 
 than those in heaven ; more the things that pass away than 
 the things that remain, and that he is in great danger to 
 lose the everlasting treasure. 
 
 Art. 2. Inasmuch as many of our children and young 
 people fall into a coarse life, and a great occasion of it seems 
 to be a want that there is not sufficient diligence used in 
 instructing the children according to the word of the Lord 
 given by Moses in Deut. vi. 7, where we read: "And thou 
 shalt teach them (these words which I command thee this 
 day) diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them 
 when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou walkest by 
 the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest 
 up;" and also the apostle Paul says (Ephes. vr. 4), that 
 parents should "bring them (their children) up in the nur- 
 ture and admonition of the Lord;" it is opinion (and ad- 
 vice) that there should be used more diligence to instruct our 
 dear youth and children in the word of truth to their sal- 
 vation, and that it is the special duty of the dear parents, 
 as well as of the pastors and teachers, to be engaged herein, 
 
16 MINUTES OF 
 
 inasmuch as the apostle teaches, "Feed the flock of God 
 which is among you, taking the oversight thereof." I. Pet. 
 v. 2). And inasmuch as the children of the faithful belong 
 to the flock of Christ, just as naturally as the lambs belong 
 to the flock of sheep; and inasmuch as the word can be 
 brought nearer to the hearts of children in a simple con- 
 versation or catechisation, or however it may be called, 
 than otherwise in a long sermon, so that they apprehend 
 the word of divine truth, believe in Jesus Christ, and accept 
 his doctrine and commandments, and walk therein to their 
 eternal salvation — hence we admonish in heartfelt and 
 humble love all our in God much beloved fellow members, 
 dear fathers and mothers of families, as also pastors and 
 teachers, our in God much loved fellow laborers, in the dear 
 and worthy name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has given 
 himself unto death for us, that we should die to ourselves, 
 and live to him forever, that they would use all possible 
 diligence that our dear youth might be provoked to love 
 God, and to appreciate his word from their childhood. Do 
 not spare any labor and toil to convince them by our teach- 
 ing and by our life, not after the manner which is almost 
 too common nowadays, where the young are made to learn 
 something by heart, and then to rehearse it in a light, 
 thoughtless manner, and then are permitted to go on in a 
 life as thoughtless as before— but that they may give them- 
 selves up to God in an earnest life. The great Kewarder 
 of all good will undoubtedly remunerate you ; for those 
 that have done right shall live forever, and the Lord is their 
 reward, and the Most High provides for them ; they will 
 receive a glorious kingdom and a beautiful crown from the 
 hand of the Lord. Sap. xvn. 17. 
 
 Art. 3. Further it has been discussed, and unanimously 
 deemed good and evangelical, that all brethren, in all 
 places, should shun all worldly offices, so as not to serve in 
 any of them, provided it is possible to be relieved from 
 them — such as supervisor, overseer of the poor, collector, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 17 
 
 constable, assessor,oralsojuryrnan, etc. Yet it is considered, 
 with some difference, such as supervisor or overseer of the 
 poor might be served, perhaps, with least objection; pro- 
 vided, there is no suing, or something else contrary to the 
 word of the Lord. If a brother should be elected to one 
 of these offices contrary to his will, then only that what he 
 would have to do contrary to the gospel should be rebuked 
 in love and compassion, according to the word of the Lord. 
 Art. 4, Concerning marriages of near relations, especially 
 cousins, was unanimously considered, and deemed good that 
 such marriages should not at all be, and that parents should 
 warn their children earnestly in this respect, so that offense 
 and scandal might be prevented, which have been so often 
 occasioned by it, and that our dear youth may not in igno- 
 rance be led into something, where, perhaps, afterward 
 their thoughts might be accusing one another about those 
 things which can not be altered any more, and therefore, 
 should be well considered previously in the fear of God. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 179C. 
 
 Article 1. Unanimously concluded, that we desire and 
 pray that the beloved brother, Valentine P., would desist 
 from his strange notion, because he has renounced with us 
 before God, angels, and men, all things that are contrary 
 to the wholesome doctrine, and we believe and confess that 
 Christ has forbidden to his followers the swearing of oaths 
 and partaking of war. Hence we must keep to his word 
 and truth, and withdraw ourselves from every brother that 
 returns again to swearing and war. It is impossible for us 
 to break the bread of communion with such a brother, who 
 pretends the higher powers were requiring such of him. 
 For they can not compel us, if they would, because we are 
 to obey God rather than men. But now, thanks to God, 
 
18 MINUTES OF 
 
 we have such a government that will not require of us. 
 what is against our conscience. But should there be any 
 among us having such a conscience as_to be able to fight and 
 swear oaths, such a one would not be ot us ; neither would 
 we break the bread of communion with a minister that 
 would baptize backward, contrary to our faith. 
 
 Art. 2. At a (large and) numerous meeting of brethren 
 on the Schuylkill, at (the place of) Bro. John Bach, May 
 22, 1790, the following was unanimously concluded by the 
 brethren, viz. : We wish and desire that the dear brother, 
 V. P., would desist from his strange notion, because he has 
 renounced with us before God, angels, and men every 
 thing which is contrary to wholesome doctrine, and we be- 
 lieve and profess that Christ has prohibited to his followers 
 the swearing of oaths and the partaking in war. Hence 
 we must hold fast to His truth and word, and withdraw 
 ourselves from every such brother who will justify swear- 
 ing of oaths and warfare. It is impossible for us to break 
 the bread of communion with such a brother, even if he 
 would allege that the powers that be require us to do so. 
 For our rulers could not do it, if they would, because we 
 must obey God more than men. But now, thanks be to 
 God, we have such a government that will not require ot 
 us such contrary to (the dictates of) our conscience. But 
 if there should be some one among us that had such a con- 
 science, that he could fight and swear oaths, such a one 
 would not be of us. 
 
 Likewise, we could not break the bread of communion 
 with a ministering brother who would, contrary to our 
 views, baptize backward. 
 
 Signed in the great meeting, in the name and with the 
 consent of all the assembled brethren. 
 
 George Preiss, Martin Meyer, Michael Frantz, Daniel 
 Bollinger, John Landes, Christian Lawshe, Justus Fuchs, 
 Martin Gaby, Peterj Keyser, Sander Mack, Nathaniel 
 Schreiber, David Kuutze, Martin Urner, Peter Leibert, Ja- 
 cob Boeshor, Jacob Danner, Abraham Lawshe. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF TEE BRETHREN- 19 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1793. 
 
 Article 1. Inasmuch as God has commanded his ancient 
 people Israel, by Moses, and said, "There shall be no beg- 
 gar among you (German translation), for the Lord shall 
 greatly bless thee in the land which the Lord thy God giv- 
 eth thee for an inheritance to possess it," etc. Lent xv. 4. 
 And says further, " If there be among you a poor man of 
 thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which 
 the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thy 
 heart, nor shut thy hand from thy poor brother; but thou 
 shalt open thy hand wide unto him, and shall surely lend 
 him sufficient for his need in that which he wanteth." 
 And says again, "Beware that there be not a thought in 
 thy wicked heart, saying," etc. "Thou shalt freely give 
 him, and thy heart shall not be grieved when thou givest 
 unto* him; because that for this thing the Lord thy God 
 shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all thou puttest thy 
 hand unto." And again says, " For the poor shall never 
 cease out of the land; therefore I command thee, saying, 
 Thou shalt open thy hand wide unto thy brother, to thy 
 poor, and to thy needy in thy land," etc. Deut. xv. 7-11. 
 And the apostle James says, "Hearken, my beloved breth- 
 ren, hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in 
 faith, and heirs of the kingdom," etc. James n. 5. And 
 inasmuch it has happened by bad people, that such as were 
 actually poor have been robbed of their gifts by men going 
 about and pretending to be brethren, have asked assistance, 
 which they have afterward spent in taverns by drinking and 
 gambling; now, in order to prevent such deception, some 
 years ago, at a large meeting in Conestoga,it was resolved 
 unanimously that no member should" go from church to 
 church, or from house to house, to collect alms, etc. And 
 inasmuch as members have been imposed upon since in a 
 deceitful manner, therefore we have concluded again in this 
 present great meeting unanimously, that hereafter no mem- 
 
20 MINUTES OF 
 
 ber shall be allowed to go himself to another church ; but 
 if there should be found a member in want or distress, the 
 overseer in the church where such member lives is to hold 
 counsel with the church, in order to see whether they would 
 relieve the want, and if so, it should not go any further; 
 but if not, then the overseer, with the counsel of the church, 
 should send a letter to the adjoining church with a brother 
 of his church, and if there the want can be relieved, it shall 
 go no further ; but if the want be not redressed then accord- 
 ing to the finding of that church, it should be proceeded 
 in the same manner from that to the next church, until relief 
 is obtained ; so that our loving brethren and members, who, 
 according to the doctrine of Paul, are willing to do good 
 unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household 
 of faith (Gal. vi. 10), may no longer be imposed upon in 
 such deceitful manner. This is not to be understood that 
 we should not do good, also, to those poor without the 
 church, etc. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1794. 
 
 Article 1. Concerning the ban, we would very readily 
 deny ourselves so much for our brethren's sake, so as to 
 drop the Jewish word "ban." But the ordinance of the 
 Lord Jesus and his holy apostles we can not give up, even 
 for our brethren's sake, namely : " If any man that is called 
 a brother is a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a 
 railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner : with such a one 
 no not to eat." I. Cor. v. 11. Here we see clearly that 
 Paul does not mean only the eating in (the Lord's) Supper, 
 but all eating (in his company). This is shown in the 
 foregoing verse very plainly, when it says, " Yet not alto- 
 gether with the fornicators of this world," etc. Otherwise 
 we might eat the bread of communion with the fornica- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 21 
 
 tors of this "world, which certainly he can not have meant 
 at all. 
 
 Art. 2. We hear that there arises a strange doctrine, or 
 rather opinion, among the brethren in Carolina, and that 
 some brethren are grieved about this matter, because some 
 believe, say, and teach the following, viz. : 
 
 1. That there is no other heaven but that in man. 
 
 2. That there is no other hell but that in man. 
 
 3. That God has no form or shape ; and if a person 
 would worship God, and would conceive in his mind God 
 as in the human form ; would imagine or believe that God 
 had an appearance like a man, such person would do the 
 same as one who would worship a horse or any other 
 beast. 
 
 4. That God had no anger, and would punish no per- 
 son on account of his sins. 
 
 5. That the dead rise not ; for out of the grave nothing 
 would come forth. 
 
 6. That they will have nothing to do with the ban (or 
 excommunication.) 
 
 For this cause some brethren desire to hear the views or 
 minds of the brethren (in general council), and therefore 
 we inform the loving brethren, that the view or doctrine 
 of the old brethren is, that we are to believe as the Scrip- 
 ture has said. For Christ says, "He that believeth on me, 
 as the Scripture has said, out of his belly shall flow rivers 
 of living water." John vir. 38. Further he says, "The 
 Scriptures can not be broken." John x. 35. Again, we 
 see that Christ in his" whole life has looked upon the 
 •Scriptures, and has fulfilled them in all things. For when 
 they came, and Peter struck with the sword, the Lord said, 
 " Put up again thy sword into his place, for all they that 
 take the sword shall perish by the sword. Thinkest thou 
 that I can not now pray to my Father, and he shall pres- 
 ently give me more than twelve legions of angels?" But 
 .how then shall the Scripture be fulfilled, that thus it must be ? " 
 Matt. xxvi. 50-54. 
 
22 MINUTES OF 
 
 Bow, to come to the before-mentioned points or propo- 
 sitions, our dear brethren will not think hard of us because 
 we believe as it is written, and believe also with David, that 
 the word of the Lord is well refined, and a true doctrine, 
 and that we also believe with Paul, that it is our duty to 
 bring into captivity every thought (all reason, says the Ger- 
 man) to the obedience of Christ, etc. 
 
 1. Now, to come to the word about heaven. Says Moses 
 (Gen. i. 1), "In the beginning God created the heaven and 
 the earth; and the earth was without form, and void." 
 Then no man was created yet, and Moses calls something 
 heaven, that is not in man. And (Acts I. 9) it we read, 
 "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, 
 he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their 
 sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven 
 as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white 
 apparel, which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye 
 gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus which is taken 
 up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as 
 ye have seen him go into heaven." Here we see that there 
 is a heaven up on high. 
 
 2. "That there be no other hell but that in man." We 
 read (Luke xv. 22, tf) about the rich man, that he died and 
 that he also was buried. Now, it is without contradiction 
 that when he died his soul and spirit had departed from the 
 body, and had found, it seems, according to the word, the 
 hell in which he suffered torments. So we think it would 
 be well for us, if we would on this point or word "hell" 
 apply the doctrine of Paul, not to dispute about words ; for 
 we can notice in Holy Writ that the word hell is used for 
 different things. But we believe, as it is written, that there 
 is a lake of fire or place of torment, in many places men- 
 tioned, which, according to the word, is outside of man, as- 
 we read plainly (Matt. xxv. 41) where Christ says, " Depart 
 from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the 
 devil and his angels." Here we see clearly that the lake of 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 23 
 
 fire is not in man, because men are sent into the lake of fire, 
 and it says not that the fire should go into the men. 
 
 3. " That God has no shape or form ; and if a person 
 would worship God, and would conceive in his mind and 
 believe God having a form like a man, such person would 
 do the same as if he worshiped a horse or any other beast." 
 This, it seems to us, is speaking very derogatory of God, or 
 against God, though we believe, also, from the heart that 
 God is a Spirit, as Christ himself says, and that the true 
 worshipers worship him in spirit and in truth. But not at 
 all contrary to this says John, " In the beginning was the 
 Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was 
 God." And further on, "And the Word was made flesh, 
 and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory," etc. Here 
 God has put on a visible form. Now, to be sure, in his wor- 
 ship man should not imagine a form or likeness of God; 
 but if it should happen that a person or disciple would, in 
 his worship in simplicity and sincerity toward God, look to 
 God in the person or appearance of Christ, we consider it 
 far less culpable than for a man to worship a horse or some 
 other beast, and deem this a very unbecoming expression. 
 
 4. "That God has no anger, and punishes no person for 
 his sins." Now, we believe also with John, "that God is 
 love; and that he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, 
 and God in him ; " and that God is not angry like an uncon- 
 verted man, but that penal judgments proceed from love to 
 the human family. Yet notwithstanding the holy Script- 
 ures or the men of God in Holy Writ call God's judgment 
 God's wrath, as Psalm xc. 11, " Who knoweth the power of 
 thine anger? Even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath." 
 Again,Johnthe Baptist says (John in. 36),"He that believeth 
 on the Son hath everlasting life; andhethatbelievethnotthe 
 Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on Mm" 
 And that the Lord would punish no man for his sin, we 
 deem to be an error. Christ says himself, " Suppose ye that 
 these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because 
 
24 MINUTES OF 
 
 they suffered such things? I tell you, nay; but except ye 
 repent, ye shall all likewise perish." Luke xnr. 2, 3. 
 
 5. "That the dead rise not, for out of the grave nothing 
 would come forth." We believe, as Christ says (John v. 28), 
 "The hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves 
 shall hear his voice, and shall come forth," etc. So we read 
 (Matt, xxvii. 51, 52), "The earth did quake, and the rocks 
 rent, and the graves were opened, and many bodies of the 
 saints which slept arose, and came out of the graves," etc. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1797. 
 
 Article 1. It was considered good, and also concluded 
 unanimously, that no brother or sister should have negroes as 
 slaves; and in case a brother or sister had such, he (or she) 
 has to set them free. And in case a person is drawn by the 
 grace of God, who has negroes, and desires to be received 
 into the church, then it is to be laid before him (or her) 
 before being received by baptism into the church, that it is 
 the brotherly and united counsel that brethren and members 
 having negroes for slaves, and thinking that they could not 
 at once emancipate them, may hold them so long as the 
 nearest church may deem that they had earned the money, 
 and then, according to the counsel of the church, to let their 
 slaves go out free, with a good suit of wearing apparel (frei 
 kleid) as is given to a white serve. And if they (the slaves) 
 have children, they shall stay with the brother as servants 
 until they are twenty-five years old; he is to have them 
 taught reading and writing, and bring them up in the fear 
 of the Lord, and when they enter upon their (26) twenty- 
 sixth year, to let them go out free with a good suit of clothing 
 (frei kleid). Further it is considered, if a brother, contrary 
 to this conclusion, would purchase negroes, and would not 
 emancipate them, he would have to be considered as diso- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 25 
 
 bedient, and we could have no fellowship with him until 
 he sets them free. 
 
 Art. 2.. It was in union concluded, that if a brother or 
 sister should commit a fault or sin, that were not between 
 brother and brother, but open before the world, then the 
 church is to examine, and if the fault is not so criminal 
 that the church is compelled to cut him oft' entirely, ac- 
 cording to the word of the Lord, and the failing member 
 acknowledges and repents for his sin, such should make a 
 public acknowledgment in presence of belivers and unbe- 
 lievers. But if he should harden his heart, and would not 
 be obedient to the counsel of the church, then the mem- 
 bers could not have fellowship with him until such time he 
 becomes willing to acknowledge and to obey, and then the 
 whole church should heartily pardon and forgive him, in 
 the name of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (See also 
 "Acknowledgments") 
 
 Art. 3. It was in union concluded, that the holy kiss 
 and the kiss of charity should not be neglected, since in 
 some places it is almost entirely omitted ; but according to 
 the words of the apostles, we should prove ourselves on all 
 occasions as disciples of Jesus, and be steadfast in brother- 
 ly love ; and notwithstanding all disgrace, we should not 
 be ashamed of the word and following of Christ. 
 
 Art. 4. From James v. 14, etc., the brethren testified 
 unanimously, " That the sick who desire and call for it 
 should be anointed, according to the word of the holy 
 apostle, in the name of the Lord." 
 
 Art. 5. The case was presented of married people sep- 
 arating from one another, and then the one party marry- 
 ing again, thus committing adultery. Afterward the other 
 party also marries again, and then the latter comes to the 
 church and desires to be received by baptism as a member 
 in the church, and it was considered that if the church 
 was agreed, and the applicant should heartily repent, con- 
 fess, and acknowledge the fault (and especially if the first 
 
26 MINUTES OF 
 
 companion would be dead by this time), we might include 
 such person within the (bounds of the) mercy and merits 
 of Jesus, and receive as a member by baptism. 
 
 Art. 6. At the yearly meeting on Blackwater, Va., in 
 1797, "It was concluded in union that when a brother or 
 sister should commit a fault which was not between brother 
 and brother, but public before the world, the church is to 
 investigate the case, and if the fault was not so criminal as 
 to compel the church to cut him off entirely, according 
 to the word of the Lord, and the failing member sees it 
 and is sorry for his sin, then he should make a public ac- 
 knowledgment in the presence of the believers and the 
 unbelieving. But if he should harden his heart, and would 
 not obey the counsel of the church, then members could 
 not have communion with such until the time when he be- 
 comes willing to acknowledge and to obey." 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1798. 
 
 Article 1. It has been made known to us that last fall, at 
 the great council meeting of the brethren in Virginia, there 
 was some discussion on account of the different views of 
 the brethren, especially those in Carolina, where a brother 
 minister, by name John H., has defended himself in the 
 name of his whole church before many brethren in public, 
 and brought to light many of his own sentiments, in so far 
 that the brethren who still hold fast to the word of truth, 
 according to their best knowledge, could not break the bread 
 of communion with said John H. ; would, however, in such 
 serious circumstances, not lightly make a full conclusion 
 without hearing first, also, the mind of their beloved old, 
 and by many temptations, established brethren ; hence this 
 is to inform our dear brethren in North Carolina that the 
 case has been presented to the brethren by those brethren 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 27 
 
 who have seen John H. himself, and have heard from him 
 many of his what can scarcely be called doctrines, but rather 
 perverse apprehensions of Holy Writ, and have quite unani- 
 mously concluded that we can not hold said John H., and 
 all who are of his mind, as brethren as long as they do not 
 acknowledge the doctrine of Jesus and his apostles as a true 
 doctrine sent Ironi God unto salvation, and publicly confess, 
 according to which doctrine we are to prove all the spirits 
 and powers operating in us, and necessarily must; for we 
 believe and confess, with David, that the word of the Lord 
 is a true doctrine and well refined; therefore we can not 
 acknowledge such as our brethren any more while they con- 
 tradict the Holy Scriptures in many points. This we, the 
 undersigned brethren, confess and testify to hold them as 
 other people out of the church as long as they do not seek 
 and keep house according to the Scripture. 
 
 Signed by the brethren. 
 
 P. S. — (Copy.) This is to certify that I heard John II. 
 say in his preaching that it would be no more sin to him to 
 get upon the top of the barn that he was in, and preaching 
 in, and swear and blaspheme all the new-found oaths and 
 curses, than to pray to God to forgive him his sins, or to 
 bless him in any respect; and he said he had not served 
 such a God that required the prayers of human creatures 
 to forgive them their sins, or to bless them in any manner, 
 these seven years, nor never would. These are the words 
 I heard, as near as I can remember. 
 
 Per me, Samuel Van Etten,- 
 J ohannes Keller. 
 
28 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1799. 
 
 Article 1. "Whereas, there has existed for a long time a 
 great difficulty between Bro. C. L. and Bro. J. Z., the over- 
 seers of church ; and whereas, there have been ex- 
 pressed very grave accusations and hard sayings by C. L. 
 against some brethren, who shall be named hereafter, it has 
 come to pass that Bro. C. L. has selected six brethren, and 
 J. Z. has also selected six brethren, and they (both) have 
 agreed to obey or submit to the advice or united counsel 
 of those brethren, to which also the members (of the church) 
 have consented. So we have assembled ourselves, we trust, 
 in the fear of the Lord, and with a fervent prayer to God 
 that he would bless our hearts with wisdom and under- 
 standing, in order to be enabled to counsel our dear breth- 
 ren wisely, and to come to conclusions evangelical, or ac- 
 cording to the doctrine of the gospel. And after having 
 heard the complaints and accusations (of both sides), we 
 have become entirely agreed, and believe all that Bro. L. 
 has done grossly wrong against Bro. Z., and also against 
 brethren A. M. and M. U.'s transactions, and against J. L. 
 and J. St., and whatsoever else might have been done (of 
 the same nature). 
 
 Further, we believe also that wrong has been committed 
 by J. Z. against L., but not so grossly as Bro. L. has done. 
 Hence it is our unanimous conclusion, that when C. L. 
 believes in his heart and cordially makes acknowledgment 
 before this present brotherly and member-meeting, and 
 
 also before (his own) meeting, and asks for pardon, 
 
 and also makes heartfelt confession for the suspicious (and 
 offensive) expressions against the old brethren, and against 
 L. St., then we will, and it is hoped the members will, bear 
 with him in patience, and he may continue to serve as over- 
 seer in "W. church. And what concerns Z., we have agreed, 
 that when he makes acknowledgment before the members 
 that he has also done wrong, and asks pardon, he shall also 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 29 
 
 serve as overseer with L., yet so that in important matters, 
 such as baptism, breaking of bread, receiving and exclud- 
 ing (members), he should not go on without L.'s knowl- 
 edge and consent ; but with regard to holding meetings, 
 attending funerals, and solemnizing marriages, he shall 
 have equal liberty with Bro. L. Now, whoever of them 
 will not submit to this above stated counsel and conclu- 
 sion shall stand still in his office, until he is willing to ac- 
 cept it, and when it is accepted of both, there shall be here- 
 after no more heard of those things which are past. 
 
 Unanimously concluded by us, the subscribers : Martin 
 Urner, Martin Gaby, Henry Danner, Peter Leibert, Jacob 
 Danner, Philip Engler, Michael Pfoutz, Martin Garber, 
 Daniel Utz, Philip Levy,Valentine Pressel, Stephen Ulrich. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1800. 
 
 Article 1. (On account of brethren in Carolina.) It has 
 been made known to us that the brethren in Carolina desire 
 to be informed more plainly concerning the conclusion 
 made at the big meeting on Little Conewago, May 26, 1798, 
 where it was concluded in union about Brother John H., 
 and all who are of his mind, that we could have no fellow- 
 ship with him (and them) as long as they persisted in their 
 erroneous doctrine contrary toHoly Scripture. And since 
 it is requested to inform them why and for what cause it 
 was done, we should specify by name the causes for which 
 we can bave no more fellowship with John H. and his sym- 
 pathizers — this is to further inform them that the chief 
 causes were alreadv mentioned in a letter from the bis: meet- 
 ing held on Shenandoah, Virginia, October 20, 1794, as fol- 
 lows, viz.; that there arises a strange doctrine, or rather 
 opinion, among the brethren in Carolina, and that other 
 brethren are grieved by the same. (The six points are given 
 
30 MINUTES OF 
 
 in Minutes of 1794.) These six chief points have been 
 specified in the above-mentioned letter ot the big meeting, 
 with the answer, as the old brethren have given their views 
 and doctrine in refutation, which letter, as we presume, has 
 been sent to the brethren in Carolina, and they are all de- 
 sired to read the same at pleasure. Then again, at the big 
 meeting which was held on Little Conewago, May 26, 1798, 
 the same case was once more viewed by the old brethren, 
 and also the Germantown brethren have sent their opinion 
 by letter from Brother Sander Mack, wherein it is sorrow- 
 fully lamented that among the little flock of the Taufs- 
 Gesinute in America there should arise men who deny the 
 resurrection of the dead, and that among brothers and sis- 
 ters some had to have the misfortune to have their eyes 
 smeared by that old, moldy, and horribly stinking leaven 
 of the Sadducees. And in addition a written testimony has 
 come to hand about John II., that he should have said in 
 his preaching, which two truthful men have heard him say 
 it, and have testified to it. (See postcript, Minutes of 1798.) 
 Behold, much beloved brethren, in view of all the un- 
 scriptural doctrines and expressions, we have been moved 
 (compelled) to exclude from the fellowship and membership 
 of the Lord Jesus at that big meeting of May 26th, said 
 John H., and all that are in union with him in such views, 
 and we confirm again that conclusion unanimously in our 
 great meeting of the brethren to-day, renouncing all fellou-- 
 ship with each and all such persons as hold such doctrines 
 and views as )tire stated above, until they acknowledge their 
 error and repent. Still, we look upon this case with sadness 
 and heartfelt grief, and wish them (grace) of God in Christ 
 Jesus, whose mercy endureth forever, that they may ear- 
 nestly reflect and consider what may make for their peace 
 and everlasting salvatiou while yet it is the accepted time 
 and the day of salvation. This we desire from the bottom 
 of our hearts, that the good God, through the tender mercy 
 of Jesus Christ, would give and bestow to them and us for 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 31 
 
 his merciful love's sake. Amen. So much from us, the 
 undersigned brethren, assembled with one accord, and de- 
 livered to the hands of our loving brethren, who also, in 
 words, will make it known to you in the name of the whole 
 fraternity. 
 
 AXXUAL MEETIXG OF 1803. 
 
 Our cordial and united greeting of love to all our beloved 
 
 brethren and members of the "W church. AVe wish 
 
 much grace, mercy, and blessing from God, the Father of 
 our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to all our fellow-mem- 
 bers united with us in love and faith, as also especially to 
 our dear brethren, C. L. and J. Z. It is our heart's desire 
 that the good God would make us all faithful laborers -in 
 his vineyard ; for all that were hired by that householder 
 were hired to labor in his vineyard, to which we wish you 
 all much grace, blessing, and salvation from God. The 
 cause of our present writing is this : Since we, or some of 
 us, have been informed by our dear brother, Martin Gaby, 
 
 who, on his journey to us, passed through ~\V , and also 
 
 had meeting there, that Bro. C. L., since the big meeting, 
 has only been a few times at meeting, and now for a con- 
 siderable time has not come any more at all to meeting, so 
 that some brethren feel oppressed in their minds on account 
 of the word or expression which is found in that conclu- 
 sion made at that big meeting, viz. : "That Bro. J. Z. 
 should not go on with baptism, breaking of bread, receiv- 
 ing and excluding, without L.'s knowledge and consent;" 
 hereupon we, the undersigned brethren, have conversed 
 on the matter, and are of one mind on it, and now the 
 same as it was at that time (three years before), and is in 
 part also expressed in said conclusion, though briefly, that 
 we all considered that Bro. Jj. had done wrong grossly, and 
 
32 MINUTES OF 
 
 if he would believe it from the heart, and confess and 
 make acknowledgment, we, and hopirigly the members, 
 would bear with him in patience, and then he should serve 
 
 as overseer in "W , and thus should Bro. Z., in such 
 
 important matters, not go on without his knowledge and 
 consent. But if Bro. C. L. withdraws from the service, 
 or from the duty of his office, contrary to the doctrine of 
 the apostle, when he says, "If any one has an office, let 
 him attend to the same," (German translation, Kom. xn. 
 7), if, now, Bro. L. withdraws himself from the service of 
 the church as overseer, so as not to attend the meetings, 
 then he deprives himself of this honor, that- Bro. Z. can 
 not counsel with him, if he (Bro. L.) does not attend meet- 
 ings according to his duty. So it is our unanimous mind, 
 that on this account Bro. Z. should not be bound or hin- 
 dered to go on in his office, and faithfully discharge its du- 
 ties, and prove himself a faithful laborer. But if Bro. L. 
 acknowledges according to said conclusion, and endeavors 
 to be faithful in his office, then we .desire and hope the 
 members will receive him, and not lay obstacles in his way. 
 We mean, on account of things that are past. 
 
 (Signed by most of those who signed the foregoing.) 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1804. 
 
 Article 1. "Whether it should or would be allowed to a 
 brother or sister to keep public tavern by or with a license; 
 it was unanimously considered that it could not be allowed, 
 because we are convinced that it can not be done without 
 disorder, and is rather a hindrance to a godly life and qui- 
 etness of spirit. It has been deemed good in union, that 
 it a brother or sister should undertake to keep tavern, they 
 should be visited in friendship, and in love and seriousness, 
 and in the name of the church be dissuaded and warned 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 33 
 
 from it, and shown unto them what disorder and harm is 
 likely to result thereof. Further it was concluded, that if 
 a brother or sister would not hear, accept, or obey such 
 counsel and admonition, then we would have to consider 
 such as disobedient, and could not have fellowship with 
 them. Yet the sisters, who are bound in such matter by 
 the urging of their husbands, and would gladly be relieved 
 from it, but can not without the consent of their husbands, 
 they should be held less guilty. 
 
 Art. 2. Further it has been unanimously concluded, that 
 no brother or sister should be engaged, by or with a per- 
 mit, to sell strong drink, wine, or -ardent spirits, by the 
 quart or larger quantity, because it is feared that disorder 
 and harm will arise thereby. Therefore all members who 
 are engaged therein should be earnestly and faithfully ex- 
 horted in love and long-suffering to abstain from it, in order 
 that such example may not lead our youth and offspring 
 into licentiousness and scandal. But if one or the other 
 should not heed this counsel of love and admonition, and 
 not hear the church, we could not look upon such act oth- 
 erwise than as being disobedient according to an impartial 
 judgment. 
 
 Art. 3. It was concluded, in concord and union, that 
 ministers should be uniform in solemnizing marriage ac- 
 cording to the law of our country, by publishing the bans 
 of every couple three times, and this in the section where 
 they live or reside, as near as possible, so that if there were 
 any sufficient cause or impediment of such intended mar- 
 riage, it might be brought to light, and all things be con- 
 ducted decently and in order. 
 
 Art. 4, About such brethren who so easily a^nd heedlessly 
 involve themselves in debts, and do not seek counsel, until 
 they do not know any more how to counsel or help them- 
 selves ; then they want at last counsel, when they desire and 
 need help. It has unanimously been deemed good, that 
 every church where such brethren live should endeavor 
 3 
 
34 MINUTES OF 
 
 diligently to instruct such brethren also in temporal or 
 bodily things, that they should act considerately, and make 
 no more debts than they can pay ; and when at times their 
 circumstances should be such that they could not see through, 
 they should seek counsel of prudent brethren, and even 
 the whole church is in duty bound to give counsel when 
 requested ; and if the counsel of the church should not be 
 sufficient, it is also her duty to assist as far as possible in a 
 case of necessity. At the same time such should be in- 
 formed that if they would not receive good counsel they 
 should not expect or hope that the church would feel bound 
 or willing to assist much. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether upon request a brother might be or- 
 dained as a bishop, who shaves off his beard; it was con- 
 sidered, that inasmuch as God made man with a beard, and 
 again God commanded his people in the law not to cut off 
 the beard ; and it was especially required of the priests of 
 God not to mar the corners of the beard ; and also Christ, 
 our Master and precursor, together with his disciples, has 
 left us an example herein, in consideration of these and 
 other Scriptures and examples, it (the ordination) could 
 not readily be done in a sound faith, and with an unoffended 
 conscience. 
 
 Art. 6. What is to be done with brethren who join the 
 Freemasons? Though we are not sufficiently acquainted 
 with this (secret) association to judge in the case, still there 
 are revealed many trifling things, frivolities, and unfruitful 
 works, so that it is considered highly improper for brethren 
 to be members in their association, or to have fellowship 
 with their works; therefore it has been unanimously con- 
 cluded that in case there are brethren defiled therewith, they 
 should be admonished in heartfelt love, and informed that 
 if they wanted to be (remain) in fellowship with these (ma- 
 sonic) brethren, we could not have fellowship with them ; 
 and if after such admonition they would not hear or receive 
 counsel, we would have to avoid them, and could have no 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 35 
 
 fellowship with them* But if one were contaminated with 
 this, and would repent from the heart (and renounce all 
 further fellowship with that association) in faith and hope, 
 he might be received again in the name of Jesus Christ. 
 
 Art. 7. About persons who are among the English Bap- 
 tists, and have been baptized by them, and come now and 
 desire to be admitted (in our church); whether they ought 
 to be baptized again, according to the true order of baptism, 
 or if they should prefer it, whether we would receive them 
 without being baptized again? In consideration of the 
 Scripture, and especially because the Lord said to Moses, 
 "Look that thou make them after their pattern, which was 
 showed thee in the mount" (Exod. xxv. 40), it has been 
 concluded, with one accord, that when such come to us we 
 should give them in all things good instruction according 
 to the gospel — yea, according to the Scriptures; and when 
 they believe, and are willing to obey from the heart that 
 form of doctrine according to the counsel of God, they 
 ought to be baptized in the proper order, because there have 
 occurred different- examples that heretofore persons had 
 been received by the brethren who thought then they could 
 be satisfied with their single backward immersion, but after- 
 ward they were more enlightened have deemed their bap- 
 tism as imperfect, and to put their conscience at rest, they 
 requested and had to be baptized in the name of the Father, 
 and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, by a trine immer- 
 sion. 
 
 Art. 8. Concerning buying lottery-tickets with a hope of 
 gain, it was unanimously concluded that such can not be 
 approved in members, and parents should by all means 
 prevent their children from it, because it can not be viewed 
 any better than other gambling for gain. 
 
 Art. 9. Concerning the evil which grieves God and an- 
 gels in heaven, and also the faithful souls on earth, namely, 
 the new fashions which are in vogue in the world, and also 
 here and there are believers who gratify too much the lust 
 
36 MINUTES OF 
 
 of the eye (Kum. xv. 39), and conforming therein themselves 
 to the world ; and especially our youth is corrupting itself 
 herein so much that the £ Lord has almost cause to complain 
 that all flesh has corrupted its way ; therefore it has been 
 unanimously deemed good that the bishops and ministers, 
 as also all fathers and mothers of families, should use all 
 diligence to counteract such things that they might spread 
 no further, but rather be put out of the way ; especially 
 when persons desire to be received (in the church) it should 
 be ]aid before them, that such things are contrary to the 
 wholesome doctrine, and that it is their duty to deny them- 
 selves ; and when they are willing to lay them aside, then 
 they may be baptized in hope, that they will permit them- 
 selves to be further instructed, etc. 
 
 Art. 10. Our cordial and united greeting of love to our 
 beloved brethren, especially to Brothers C. L. and J. Z., and 
 also to Brothers Jacob H. and John G. "We desire and 
 wish you all that may tend to the glory of God, to the sal- 
 vation of souls, and in the edification of the church. In- 
 asmuch as it appears that Bro. C. L. assumes more author- 
 ity in the service of the church than it pleases us and tne 
 church, and Brother J. Z. has given more out of his hands 
 than is pleasing to us and the church, so that it causes pres- 
 sure and offense; therefore it is our loving counsel to you 
 that you should keep house in the service of the church in 
 union and concord, so that Brother C. L. should make the 
 commencement in meeting (preparatory) to prayer, and 
 then it is all the same who is speaking first; and when the 
 meeting is to be brought to a close, then the beloved brother, 
 John Z., is to make the conclusion. At the next meeting 
 the loving brother, J. Z., is to make the beginning, and it 
 is immaterial who may speak first; and when the meeting 
 is to be closed, the loving brother, C. L., shall conclude ; 
 and so on. In important matters Brother Z. should do 
 nothing without counseling with Brother L.; and so like- 
 wise should Brother L. do nothing without counseling with 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 37 
 
 Brother Z., so that union is preserved. But he who will 
 not keep house thus and give satisfaction to the church, 
 and will not accept the apostolic counsel of love of the be- 
 loved old brethren, such should be silent, and can not serve 
 the church in his office. Further, if a person desires to be 
 baptized, and makes known a preference by which brother 
 he would like to be baptized, then that brother, with the 
 counsel of the church, is to satisfy the candidate and for- 
 ward him. With these lines we have given nothing new, 
 but adhere to the conclusion which has been laid down al- 
 ready six years ago by the beloved brethren. We have fur- 
 ther to notice, that there were very rude expressions made 
 by Brother L., saying that there i3 gone forth a spirit of 
 Satan, and rules in the church, and of this J. Z. is the head, 
 etc.; and even the church has been compared to the rebel- 
 lious company of Korah. Such should be acknowledged 
 and recalled by all means. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1805. 
 
 Article 1. Concerning those who are in avoidance. 
 Since some think that we may or should not even give 
 them the hand, while others would feel disposed at times 
 to offer them the hand as a token that we would willingly 
 assist them to be released and reconciled again, the unani- 
 mous conclusion was, that we should be of one mind, and 
 follow the same rule in housekeeping, and it was so laid 
 down, that it might be best to offer them in that view the 
 hand, but to have no dealings with them nor any familiar 
 intercourse until a reformation takes place in them. 
 
 Art. 2. Further, it has been considered, that when there 
 is made a conclusion at the big yearly meeting, and there 
 are members who would not heed, nor conduct themselves 
 accordingly, it has been concluded unitedly, that when such 
 
38 MINUTES OF 
 
 persons can not convince the church by evidence from 
 holy Scripture, and would or did rise up against said church 
 conclusion, would not hear or obey at all, in such case we 
 could not well do otherwise, but after sufficient and friendly 
 admonition, to set them back from the breaking of bread 
 until they learn to do better and become obedient. 
 
 Art. 3. Concerning praying (the Lord's Prayer) "Our 
 Father," since some do not make the same expressions as 
 given by the Evangelists from the mouth of Jesus, it was 
 considered, that we should use the expressions according 
 to the pattern of the doctrine of Jesus, our Master, and at 
 the same time contemplate the meaning contained in these 
 words, so that we may pray with the spirit and under- 
 standing of the heart, according to the mind of Christ, and 
 in truth. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1810. 
 
 Article 1. About brethren who intend selling bonds, it 
 was considered, that it should not be done without the 
 counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 2. Concerning brethren who use the law for col- 
 lecting debts, it was considered, that it is unbecoming for 
 brethren to do so, that it can not be permitted, and if they 
 should do such a disallowed thing, they are to be left over 
 to the counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 3. Concerning when brethren or members get at 
 variance or in difficulty with one another, no one is allowed 
 to refuse to the other the kiss for himself, without counsel 
 of the church, unless there had been committed an obvi- 
 ous crime. 
 
 Art. 4. Concerning when a member has been put back 
 from the communion, and some from kindness or relation- 
 ship continue to salute such with the holy kiss, before they 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 39 
 
 are received again by the church, it was considered as a 
 fault, aud should be by no means. 
 
 Art. 5. Concerning working on Sundays. Inasmuch 
 as there are some members who are so easily brought to work 
 
 on Sundays, it has been considered thus, that it should not 
 be by any means, except in cases of necessity, for it is a 
 transgression of the law of God, and that of our rulers. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1812. 
 
 Article 1. In case a brother or sister should desire in 
 their sickness to be anointed, it might be administered to 
 them, provided they would not seek further help from an 
 earthly physician ; and if it should so be that the Lord would 
 raise them again to health, and they should fall sick again, 
 and think the Lord would call them away, and they ask 
 again to be anointed, we would have no right from the word 
 of God to refuse them, and it should be left to those breth- 
 ren's wisdom who are called to do as the anointing will 
 teach them. (I. John n. 20.) 
 
 Art. 2. Concerning feet-washing, inasmuch as it has hap- 
 pened sometimes that members are permitted to have their 
 feet washed by other denominations, who also practice feet- 
 washing at their breaking of bread, yet not quite according 
 to the word as we can understand it, it is considered advis- 
 able that it should not be proper to take part in such im- 
 perfect exercises, etc. 
 
 Art. 3. Concerning a woman whose husband is dead; 
 and having several children and no property, and her hands 
 too weak to provide for them ; it was considered that the 
 church should provide for her, and at the proper time to 
 put out the children in good places, and to good people, 
 and thus supply their wants. 
 , Art. 4. Concerning a woman who was deserted by her 
 
40 MINUTES OF 
 
 husband; and being informed that he was dead, married 
 again ; when afterward her first husband made his appear- 
 ance again, he showed no concern about her, and went 
 away again ; and now he is said again to be dead, and she 
 makes application to be received into the church. Consid- 
 ered, that this can not be done according to the word of 
 God, before there is sure evidence that the first husband is 
 dead, and then upon sincere repentance and acknowledg- 
 ment she might be received. 
 
 Art. 5. Concerning the slave trade and slaveholding; it 
 was considered that it is a most grievous evil, and should 
 be abolished as soon as possible. 
 
 Art. 6. Concerning brethren who are sometimes pre- 
 vailed upon to serve in the office of constable, it was con- 
 sidered that a follower of Jesus could not serve in such 
 office; and if a brother should accept of it, take the oath 
 of office, and serve in it, or by some person else as his sub- 
 stitute, t such a brother would exclude himself from the 
 breaking of bread, holy kiss, and brotherly council. 
 
 Art. 7. Another case was presented of a woman who was 
 deserted by her husband, and after being informed that he 
 was dead, she married again ; but the information proved*- 
 to be untrue; her first husband made his appearance again, 
 but without calling dr claiming her he went away the sec- 
 ond time, and now he is said again to be be dead, and she 
 (the woman) now makes application to be received into the 
 church. The brethren decided that it could not be done 
 according to the word of God, until there is evidence that 
 her first husband be dead, and then only she might be re- 
 ceived upon true repentance and confession. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 41 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1813. 
 
 Article 1. With regard to the slave trade and slave 
 holding, it was unanimously considered that it is wrong, 
 and that it belongs to the iniquities of Babylon, making 
 merchandise of souls of men (Rev. xviii. 13), and that it is 
 carried on by the spirit of this world, and is contrary to 
 the good and holy spirit of God, by whom all the faithful 
 souls dedicated to God are ruled and led into all truth, and 
 are to come out, according to the counsel of God, of Baby- 
 lon, not touching the unclean thiug, that they be not par- 
 takers of her sins, and receive not of her plagues. Hence 
 it is unanimously and in union considered, that no mem- 
 ber, neither brother nor sister, shall purchase or sell negroes, 
 and keep none for slaves ; members should also, with all 
 diligence, restrain their children from it as far as it is pos- 
 sible while they are yet out of the church. Further it was 
 concluded, if there were members having slaves, or persons 
 who wish to be received into the church and have slaves, 
 that they might hold them in a proper way so long as the 
 church near which they live may deem it necessary for the 
 slaves to earn the money they had cost, and then, with the 
 counsel of the church, they are to be set free, with a good 
 suit of clothing ; and if there are any who have not bought, 
 but inherited their negroes, they are to be liberated as soon 
 as the church considers it right and proper. And if mem- 
 bers have negro children under their care, or even as slaves, 
 they shall bring them up in an orderly manner, teach them 
 also to read, and keep them, if males, to the age of twenty- 
 one years, and if females, to the age of eighteen years, and 
 then, w r ith the counsel of the church, emancipate them, with 
 a good suit of wearing apparel. Further it has been unani- 
 mously concluded, that if members having negro slaves, 
 will not set them free, and thus oppose themselves to the 
 order of God and the loving counsel of the old brethren, 
 who are indeed servants and stewards of God, and even the 
 
42 MINUTES OF 
 
 united counsel of the whole yearly meeting, then after suf- 
 ficient admonition they would have to be held bound (ac- 
 cording to the word). We would have to deny such mem- 
 bers the breaking of the bread of communion, the holy 
 kiss, and the brotherly counsel, yet according to the word 
 of the apostle Paul, to admonish them as brethren or sisters. 
 Art. 2. Further, it has been considered in union con- 
 cerning electioneering, viz., giving votes for officers or men 
 for the assembly or .Congress, in order to elect them to 
 their several offices. Inasmuch as the appearance of the 
 times into which we have come are grievous (it was the time 
 of the war with England), and inasmuch as party spirit has 
 risen so high in the kingdom of this worlds that men, and 
 even the heads of government are among themselves at 
 variance, therefore it has been viewed in union, that it 
 would be much better if no votes were given in at elections 
 for such officers (by the brethren) ; for so long as there is 
 such division of parties, we make ourselves suspicious and 
 unpropitious on the one side, on whatever side we may vote. 
 Thereby every one that desires to be defenseless (or non- 
 resistant) may readily see what might be best (for him to 
 do). Moreover, is (not only) our land and (but also) almost 
 all empires engaged in war (in Europe especially) ; hence 
 it was considered to be best to give in no vote, else we 
 might, perhaps, assist in electing such that would afterward 
 oppress us with war. To pray diligently for our govern- 
 ment we believe to be our duty, and to call upon the Lord 
 we think will be most acceptable. 
 
 Art. 3. " It has been also again requested of, and coun- 
 seled by the old brethren, that the great (annual) meeting 
 should be continued in the order as it has been heretofore 
 declared and laid down by the old brethren, viz. : that the 
 ministers and overseers of the churches, every one in his 
 own district and church, should in good time lay it before 
 the church, how some should be willing to go to the big 
 (annual) meeting, and that the church should assist them, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 43 
 
 if possible, that some may be able to go, so that from all 
 parts, and if it could be from all churches, some may come 
 to that meeting; and those that will come should endeavor 
 to arrive on Thursday evening so near to the place of meet- 
 ing as to be able to be at the place Friday morning at nine 
 o'clock, that the business may go on without hindrance." 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1814. 
 
 Article 1. It has been publicly treated at the big meet- 
 ing on Fipe Creek, about the lamentable disturbance and 
 dissension which have arisen some time ago between Bro. 
 C. H. and some members of this church with him, of one 
 part, and the old ministers and bishop, and especially F. E. 
 and other members, of the other part. This disturbance 
 and dissension have existed already several years, and after 
 said old brethren and ministers and overseers in said church 
 had made many efforts with the church to settle the diffi- 
 culty with the assistance of God, the troublesome affair 
 has got worse still, so that said old brethren and overseers 
 of said church had no other prospect but to counsel with 
 other strange brethren, and have charged the beloved old 
 brother, Henry Danner, to see to it, that the matter might 
 be settled and put to rest. 
 
 Now the loving brother was concerned about it, accord- 
 ing to his duty, and has, with other strange brethren, paid 
 a visit at Pipe Creek, and hadBro. C. H. and his adherents 
 invited to come to the council meeting. But Bro. C. H. 
 objected ; he could not come on account of his sore hand, 
 and they came not. To the loving brother, Henry Danner, 
 to whom as aforesaid was intrusted this important affair, 
 it was a heavy burden ; so he appointed another time, and 
 requested old brethren from afar, and paid with them an- 
 other visit at Pipe Creek, especially to Bro. C. H. and some 
 
44 MINUTES OF 
 
 of, his adherents, and invited them again to come to the 
 (council) meeting. Bro. C. H. again would not consent to 
 come, and they did not come again, with the objection that, 
 it was not j'et the time to settle the matter, and secondly, 
 that they had not had sufficient information about the 
 council meeting, and so they had not prepared their testi- 
 mony. Then the dear brethren that had come from afar, 
 counseled with the loving brother, Danner, that this case 
 should not remain thus, while there were members suffer- 1 
 ing under it, and some even had to depart this life under 
 this pressure and sorrow ; under these considerations, and 
 with the advice of some brethren (of the church probably),' 
 they appointed again another meeting some months hence, 
 and at once wrote and signed a letter of information to 
 Bro. C. H., and appointed some brethren to bring the letter 
 to Bro. C. H., and to read the same to him. 
 
 When the appointed time of the meeting came near 
 that strange brethren should have come, at least twelve, 
 then Bro. C. H., before the time, went and made reconcil- 
 iation and settlement with Bro. P. E., externally with 
 hand and kiss before the church, so that many rejoiced 
 over it, and the meeting and appointment for the strange 
 brethren was recalled. But that settlement and peace, 
 alas ! did not last long, and Bro. C. H., with his adherents, 
 began again to complain against the church, and brought, 
 not only new complaints against the church, but raised 
 also again the dispute about the land here and there, and 
 without counsel and investigation in the church of the new 
 complaints, and without counsel of other old brethren and 
 bishops, and entirely contrary to the word of God and to 
 the order of our Chief Shepherd and Bishop of his church, 
 and head of his members, caused a division, and tore him- 
 self with other members from the church and the members, 
 whom he had brought into confusion and mistrust against 
 the old brethren and church, with the hard and suspicious 
 complaints which he and others, agaiust the order of God, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 45 
 
 have scattered far and wide ; while, with all the invita- 
 tions when strange brethren came, they never came to this 
 day, in order to prove them with sufficient testimony, as it 
 is required by theHoly Scriptures, or God in his word. 
 
 He has now, with those members he led astray, formed 
 a separate congregation, and broke bread with them ; not 
 at the proper time, inasmuch as we are not to keep the feast 
 with the old leaven, neither with leaven of malice and wick- 
 edness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 
 Bro. C. H., with the others, have known that he was not 
 in peace with the church, and especially with the house- 
 keepers, nor they with him ; and the Lord Jesus teaches 
 us in these precious words, "If thou bring thy gift to the 
 altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught 
 against thee, leave there thy- gift before the altar, 
 and go thy way ; first be reconciled to thy brother, and 
 then come and offer thy gift." Matt. v. 23, 24. Those 
 whose eyes are anointed can clearly see that the whole 
 thing is perverse. For the Spirit of God leads into all 
 truth and union, and "as many as are led by the Spirit of 
 God, they are the sons (children) of God," and "by this 
 shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if you have 
 love one to another." 
 
 And not only this, but at said Supper he has introduced 
 strange exercises, which our dear old brethren have not 
 had, who indeed, as we believe, walked in the light, and 
 in the pure knowledge of the truth kept house, and en- 
 tered, as we hope, into blessed rest. And as some have 
 heard, there has been drawn a shallow reason from Christ's 
 words, to that practice, whereby that practice can not be 
 established, and it is to be feared that said new practice is 
 more calculated to cause disturbance, trouble, and divis- 
 ion within, and rejoicing without among other denomina- 
 tions, as if the old Baptists and Brethren would have now 
 to learn from them, that they had opened our eyes, and thus 
 seeking persons who are yet in the twilight, may be eon- 
 
46 MINUTES OF 
 
 fused, thinking the old brotherhood must not have had the 
 lull light, else they would not begin new practices, and 
 thus this would serve more to scatter than to gather, and 
 more to the dishonor than to the honor of God. 
 
 ISTow, since this matter^, has thus worked from time to 
 time, as has been briefly related, we, the undersigned, upon 
 the request of said church, and more for the sake of God, 
 have found it our duty to take the case in consideration at 
 this occasion, namely, in said big meeting; and several 
 brethren have visited Brother C. H. and his wife, and others 
 of his members, before the meeting, and have invited him 
 to come with his company and bring his testimonies to prove 
 his heavy complaints or accusations, in order that those 
 members who might have committed a fault could be con- 
 vinced, that there was hope, if they would,, that all could 
 be brought to rest and reconciliation. But he would not 
 come to lay the case before the big meeting, and said there 
 were too many judges at the big meeting — it would be bet- 
 ter to have too few judges than too many. However, on 
 the second day he came to the place of the meeting, and 
 said if the matter was to be settled the land would have to 
 be altogether measured, and they would bear the expenses. 
 
 But the council of the big meeting considered that with 
 further deferring the case could not be improved, and slow- 
 ly or never be brought to an end, and the measuring would 
 scarcely contribute to that end. Yet they shall have per- 
 fect liberty to have the land surveyed, as it has been spoken 
 about. And upon the whole of said case it has been mu- 
 tually concluded by the whole council of the big meeting, 
 inasmuch as Brother C. H. was never willing to come and 
 bring sufficient testimony to prove said accusations, we will 
 hear and accept the testimony of Brother P. E., and of all 
 those who were accused, on their good conscience, in hope 
 and trust as being true, until sufficient testimony should 
 come, as the Scriptures require ; and if sufficient testimony 
 should come against one or the other, then shall he who is 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 47 
 
 concerned: submit to the council of the church, which Bro. 
 P. and. the accused have agreed to and promised before the 
 big meeting. Upon this condition we declare the beloved 
 brother, P. E., and the other accused, as absolved, and in- 
 tend at this and other occasions to break the bread of com- 
 munion in confidence and love with them, and to hold with 
 them full fellowship, as the gospel of Jesus requires, and 
 we wish them light, grace, and power from God to hasten 
 forward on the way of peace to the land of blessed rest. 
 Amen. 
 
 Further, it was mutually concluded that the case, as above 
 stated, is wrong, and contrary to God's order, according to 
 the example and testimonies of the Old and New Testa- 
 ments of the Lord. From these weighty causes, the big 
 meeting concludes that impartial brethren should be select- 
 ed, and they should give themselves up for God's sake, to 
 pay the church a general visit from house to house, and be- 
 fore the meeting takes place to visit, also, Brother C. H., 
 and all those who have cut off themselves with him, in a 
 friendly manner, and to urge them to take steps toward 
 peace, concord, and reconciliation with the church and with 
 God, in as far as mistakes have been made, and all those 
 who should thus come should be cordially forgiven by the 
 whole church. 
 
 But if one or the other would not acceptor receive coun- 
 sel according to the doctrine of Christ and his apostles, and 
 not abstain from their error, with such we could not break 
 bread, and would have to deny to them the kiss and church 
 council after a long-suffering and sufficient admonition ; 
 and if Brother C. H., with all his adherents, should oppose 
 themselves, we would have to hold them, as the Lord Jesus 
 says,. " If he shall neglect to hear the church, let him be 
 unto thee as a heathen man and a publican." The whole 
 big meeting — yea, all members, should be engaged and 
 prayerful, that God would meet us with his blessing and 
 salvation. Amen. Signed, Samuel Garber, Benjamin Bow- 
 
43 MINUTES 01 
 
 man. George Preiss. Daniel Btober, Nicholas Martin, Jacob 
 Beshor, Samuel Arnold. Martin Garber. David Pfoutz, John 
 El y. Christian Long. John Schleifer, Daniel Long. Daniel 
 Garber, Michael Etter, Henry Gibbel, Herman Blaser, 
 George Petry, Daniel Arnold. David All augh, John Diel, 
 Jacob Shenefelt, John Price. Isaac Long. 
 
 In the year 1S14. November 17. the strange brethren 
 have come again to us on Pipe Creek about the difficulties 
 with C. H. and his adherents, and have visited and admon- 
 ished them again to peace, and union, and acknowledge- 
 ment; and with these lines we inform our dear members of 
 Pipe Creek Church, briefly, how we found it on our visit 
 to C. H. and the members that have turned away from the 
 church. What concerns Brother C. H., the visiting breth- 
 ren have proposed he or they should elect six brethren on 
 their part, whom they would, and they should search out 
 their true testimonies ; and the old brethren on Pipe Creek 
 should also elect six brethren, and prepare their testimonies, 
 and then the difficulties should be settled, with the help of 
 1 - . 1. according to the testimonies. 
 
 Brother H. said he would have nothing to do with it, and 
 that he would have no fellowship with the unfruitful works 
 of darkness. This was the amount upon the whole, upon 
 which we told him the conclusion made at the big meeting. 
 Likewise we have told Brother J. W., upon Lis insolent 
 and untrue asseverations, said conclusion. The said con- 
 clusion is. that if after patient admonition they would not 
 return to union according to the truth of Jesus, we must 
 deny to them, according to the gospel, the communion, in 
 so far as not to break bread with them, and to refuse the 
 kiss and council, until they should become repentant. "We 
 must observe here, that we have not seen any more of Bro. 
 Benjamin Bowman and Nicholas Martin, after they had 
 visited their part, and know not whether they have told 
 the conclusion to any members. As concerning the other 
 members who are with C. II.. it was found different; vet 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 49 
 
 several have declared that they would not fall away or sep- 
 arate from the old brethren, still they are halting at several 
 points. "We have told some, by heresay and suppositions, 
 they had got oft" from the church thus far. Now, they 
 should only believe what can be testified; in this way they 
 might be restored and put right again. In this manner all 
 the members should labor in this case with prayer and sup- 
 plication to God, that by his co-operating grace all, and 
 especially those who long after peace, could come again to 
 peace and union with the church, according to the mind of 
 the spirit of God and his soul-saving truth, in hope that 
 they will reflect and choose that what is counseled them 
 according to the gospel, viz. : to strive after peace with the 
 church. Thus we have told the other members we visited 
 the conclusion only in this form, that those who would con- 
 tinue to adhere to C. II., and go on with him in his strange 
 works, all such would be held as is expressed in the con- 
 clusion until they would return repentant; that is, all such 
 who would continue to break bread with him and justify 
 his strange baptism. Signed, etc. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1815. 
 
 In the big meeting of the Brethren's church, which was 
 held in "White Oak church with Bro. Joseph Hershe, May 
 13, 1815, the following was discussed, and held counsel on 
 the complaints arising in different parts of the church of 
 the Brethren concerning the strange views of some mem- 
 bers, which are deemed by us as erroneous and not founded 
 on the Holy Scriptures, which Holy Scriptures indeed shall 
 be the sole* foundation of our faith. And since we live 
 now in perilous times, in which arise many and manifold 
 temptations, and also many errors, so that weak minds 
 
 maybe easily led astray and in confusion, not knowing 
 4 
 
50 MINUTES OF 
 
 what or how to do iti order to salvation. And inasmuch 
 now, at this time, among the many religious parties and 
 denominations there are such whose doctrines on repent- 
 ance, on baptism, and on the forgiveness of sins through 
 the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, and on the sanctification 
 through the Holy Spirit, seem to differ not much from 
 those of the old brethren, only that they, according to our 
 vaews, as the Word teaches us, do not put every thing in 
 the right place. 
 
 They require of a man, before he is to be baptized, that 
 he should have passed entirely through repentance, and 
 should have a lively experience of the forgiveness of sins, 
 and that he should have obtained the new birth completely 
 before baptism, so that they must confess such and be enabled 
 to say how they came to it ; and that only then they were 
 fit to be received by baptism into the covenant of the grace 
 of God. There should have been made even such expres- 
 sions in public meeting, that a man must have obtained 
 complete sanctification first, else he would be baptized too 
 soon, as has been credibly testified. Xow for such a con- 
 fession or doctrine we see no foundation in Holy Writ, nor 
 a single example in the whole ISTew Testament. Candi- 
 dates for baptism were directed to repent, or to a change 
 of mind ; they were exhorted by John to bring forth fruit 
 meet for repentance — that is, to lead such a life as would 
 be consistent with a change of mind ; and of Christ and 
 his apostles we do not find that any more was required of 
 canditates than besides repentance, faith in the gospel — 
 item, faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Hence we 
 find no authority to ask more of candidates but what is 
 founded in the word of God. "We believe that baptism is 
 the entrance into the new covenant, according to the Script- 
 ures. We also believe that the foundation which was laid 
 by Christ and the apostles is the only foundation on which 
 we have to build, and that we have no right to change or 
 amend any thing. We believe also that the (individual) 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 51 
 
 cases of repentance are very different; that some Lave 
 much greater difficulties to overcome than others; there- 
 fore we make (establish) no rule herein, because the Script- 
 ure does not give any. 
 
 And since we can not agree in the above-named points, 
 with such who hold these points as articles of their faith, 
 inasmuch as the word of God does not teach us thus, it hap- 
 pens sometimes that harsh expressions are made about the 
 old brethren; for instance, "that they were a crowd of 
 dead men, who had not yet come to a new life ;" "uncon- 
 verted, who knew nothing yet of conversion;" "a dead 
 heap of flesh ;" "as laying all in a heap in death ;" that 
 not one (of them) had come to a newness of life, or he 
 could not remain among them ; and on account of their 
 baptizing too soon, the life of God commenced in them 
 was presently again extinguished, so that they could not 
 come to the (new) birth, etc. 
 
 Such expressions do not proceed from love, nor will they 
 build love. We would let these good people willingly (to 
 enjoy their sentiments) in peace, if they would also permit 
 us to enjoy (ours) in peace. It does not work unto union 
 according to the command of Christ. It causes schisms 
 and divisions. It seems as if it was the object and purpose 
 also in our churches, to fill weak members with their no- 
 tions, and to cause confusion, so that many members be- 
 come doubtful of their old brethren, since they are repre- 
 sented to them so cold and dead. And such we counsel 
 and admonish, out of heartfelt love, that they should hold 
 fast to the word of God, and not be carried about with 
 every wind of doctrine. And it is our advice to all over- 
 seers and householders to admonish all the members to 
 this, that they should take fast hold of the written word 
 of the gospel ; and if it should happen that some of 
 our members should unite with such, break the bread of 
 communion with them, receive them in their houses to 
 hold meetings, so long as those stand in such separation 
 
52 MINUTES OF 
 
 against us, they (our members) should be admonished, and 
 if they would give heed to it, we ought to have patience 
 with them ; but if they would not hear or be advised, they 
 could not stand in full fellowship with us. For the Lord 
 Jesus and the apostles teach us that we should be one, of 
 one mind, speak the same thing, and that there should be 
 no division among us ; and to this end we also labor to be 
 obedient to the gospel of Jesus by the grace of God. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1817. 
 
 Article 1. Concerning the use of tobacco, it was in uniou 
 considered, that if a member should be contaminated with 
 it, such should be admonished to quit it ; and if it would 
 not be told, such a member could not be elected to any office 
 in the church. 
 
 Art. 2. Concerning conforming to the world in wearing: 
 fashionable clothing and everything that is high, without 
 exception, it was considered, that when a member should 
 herein be found guilty, he should be admonished; and if 
 the admonition would not be heeded, we could not hold 
 such in full fellowship, inasmuch the Savior sa3's, "That 
 which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the 
 sight of God." Luke xvi. 15. 
 
 Art. 3. "Whether the nearest friends of a member that 
 fallsunder the censure of the church, or a candidate wish- 
 ing to be received into the church, may be present at the 
 council of the case? Considered necessary that the nearest 
 friends should withdraw 
 
 Art. 4. Whether testimony against a member may be 
 received from outsiders (persons not members), in case of 
 a crime being laid to the charge of a member? Considered, 
 that we could not pass judgment on a member upon testi- 
 mony from outsiders; but in case one single member could 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 53 
 
 testify with truthful outsiders, then we could and might 
 judge according to the word of God, for "in the mouth of 
 two or three witnesses every word may be established." 
 
 Art. 5. Whether brethren or their children may go on 
 the muster-ground or not ? The counsel was, that no mem- 
 ber may go there, and prevent also their children from go- 
 ing on that ground, and not willingly permit it to them as 
 long as they are under parental authority ; should a brother 
 do so, he could not be in full fellowship with the church; 
 for the Savior said to Peter, "Put up thy sword into his 
 place; for all they that take the sword, shall perish with 
 the sword." 
 
 Art. 6. "Whether we ma}' sell a note (or bond) or not? 
 Considered, that no member should sell a note without the 
 consent of the debtor. 
 
 Art. 7. Concerning working on Sunday, it was conclud- 
 ed that members should do no work on Sunday, except in 
 cases of great necessity, inasmuch astheapostle writes to 
 " give none offense, neither to the Jews, nor to the gentiles, 
 nor to the church of God." I. Cor. x. 32. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1813. 
 
 Article 1. Concerning trouble arising in some churches 
 on account of the marriage of young people, and their sol- 
 emnization. Inasmuch some desire to hold fast to the coun- 
 sel or conclusions of the old brethren, which was, that 
 previous to marriage the bans were published three times, 
 which they think is a good order, and not at all inconsist- 
 ent with the gospel ; but now some assert that this publish- 
 ing at the close of the meeting was against their conscience, 
 and think that the effect of the word preached before was 
 thereby interrupted; while, on the other hand, brethren 
 think that there is danger in solemnizing marriage without 
 
54 MINUTES OF 
 
 publishing before, inasmuch we can not know how matters 
 stand with young folk, and there might be danger, even if 
 they are neighbor's or brother's children ; and we think, 
 if we were so closely restricted by our conscience not to 
 publish the bans, then we would also marry none. Yet we 
 desire to control no man's conscience, provided he acts for 
 peace, and as they say, for conscience' sake. We desire all 
 housekeepers in churches might be united in one mind to 
 hold fast to the counsel of the old brethren ; for unto peace 
 God has called us. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1819. 
 
 Article 1. Concerning a woman who married a man 
 who had deserted his wife because she had committed car- 
 nal intercourse with another man, as he says, proved by 
 the time of her delivery. Considered, if there can be found 
 no evidence as his (the husband's) assertion, it is not suffi- 
 cient to decide that it was or is no true wedlock, conse- 
 quently the woman he has now, with himself, will be con- 
 sidered as adulterers as long as the first wife lives, accord- 
 ing to the declaration of the Apostle Paul, Rom. vn. 2, 3. 
 This is left over to further investigation. So we find no 
 liberty to receive persons who live in adultery into the 
 church, as long as the first marriage is not dissolved by 
 death, and then only upon sincere sorrow and repentance 
 they may be received into the communion of the faithful. 
 But if those who are in such case would resolve firmlj 7 for 
 God's sake to live separate, and would also indeed do so, 
 and lament sincerely their former state — then there might 
 be mercy in store for them, and they might be thereby rec- 
 onciled to God. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether we could break the bread (of commun- 
 ion) without having a supper? We hold, that we ought 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 55 
 
 by all means in all the exercises (ordinances) look to the 
 testimony of Jesus aud his example; for the Lord Jesus, 
 shortly before his suffering, when he instituted the Lord's 
 Supper, etc., after he had washed his disciples' feet, he did 
 eat the supper with them, where he also dipped the sop, 
 and gave it to J udas. (See J ohn xm. 26.) And Mark xiv. 
 18 : "And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say 
 unto you, one of you which eateth with me shall betray 
 me." And verse 22 : "And as they did eat, Jesus took 
 bread, and blessed and brake it, and gave to them, and 
 said, Take, eat : this is my body," etc. 
 
 Art. 3. How it is considered, that brethren receive other 
 preachers (from other denominations) into their houses, in 
 order to solemnize the marriage of their children after the 
 manner of the world. Considered, that matrimony is a 
 solemn matter, whether we commence it with or without a 
 blessing, and hence we think we should have so much love 
 for our children as to be concerned that they might enter 
 upon that state with a blessing; and we believe no man 
 can communicate such but he that is animated by the Holy 
 Spirit, by whom he will also be led into all truths. Hence 
 we should have our children married by a brother who is 
 authorized to do it, with a blessing and brief exhortation ; 
 also without too great superfluity of meat and drink, so 
 that we can believe to be pleasing to God — for all extrava- 
 gance is sin. 
 
 Art, 4. Whether a member is permitted to marry with- 
 out counsel of the church, and without publishing the 
 bans ? Answer : "We know that all who have entered into 
 the covenant of grace have promised also to receive coun- 
 sel, and it seems to us, in such an important matter as mar- 
 riage is, we should by all means seek counsel of our fellow 
 believers. And concerning the publishing of the bans, it 
 is our loving counsel, and daily experience teaches us, that 
 it is very good to hold to a good order, inasmuch by the 
 publishing the bans many an accusation is cut off, while on 
 
56 MINUTES OP 
 
 the other haud much deception is prevented, which would 
 have free course without the bans. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether it is not displeasing in the sight of God 
 that there is so much conformity to the world at funerals, 
 with the superfluity of drink as well as the superabundance 
 of eatables, besides what is needful and proper? Consid- 
 ered, that all superfluity in meat and drink, together with 
 all extravagance in clothing, is an abomination in the sight 
 of God, which we ought to avoid by all means, that the 
 body of Christ may not be mixed up so much with the 
 body of the world (especially at such solemn occasions as 
 funerals). 
 
 Art. 6. In a similar case of a woman marrying a man 
 who had left his wife, both were considered adulterers while 
 that first wife lives, according to the declaration of the 
 Apostle Paul (Rom.vn. 2, 3) ; and that the church could 
 not receive them as members until the first marriage was 
 dissolved by death, and then only upon heartfelt sorrow 
 and repentance. But if those who are in such condition 
 would for the sake of God (and their salvation) firmly resolve 
 and actually (endeavor to) live separate (and apart from each 
 other), with godly sorrow for their former transgression, 
 they might fiud grace and be reconciled with God (through 
 Christ). 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1820. 
 
 Article 1. In the counsel of the assembled brethren at 
 the big meetiug in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in 
 Conestoga church, at Bro, Joseph Royer's, May 19, 1820, 
 was proposed for consideration in church council the dis- 
 turbances or troubles arising 3?u the State of Ohio, in Mill 
 Creek Church, by diverse doctrinal points which have been 
 there introduced, viz.: it has been taught by Bro. A. M., 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 57 
 
 who is a co-laborer in the word, that a man must have a 
 real experience of the forgiveness of sins, and that he must 
 be entirely born anew before he is baptized, which has been 
 credibly testified. And it was considered at this meeting 
 that there is no gospel evidence for such doctrine, and it 
 was concluded with one accord and unanimity that if a 
 brother will preach and persist in such doctrine, he could 
 not be permitted to teach ; for it is not consistent with the 
 teaching of the apostle, when he says (Acts n. 38), " Repent, 
 and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus 
 Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the 
 gift of the Holy Ghost." This is thus laid down until such 
 brother will prove his or such doctrine on the ground of 
 the word of God. It was also considered that Bro. J. K. 
 went too far with the harsh expressions he made against 
 Bro. A. M. in presence of the brethren, and it is required 
 of him to make acknowledgment for such hard expressions, 
 or else we could not be well with him. 
 
 N. B. — The expressions were these, that he is to have 
 said, from the teachings of Bro. M., there was apparent a 
 spirit of Methodism and of the liiver brethren, and an 
 Antichrist, etc. 
 
 Art. 2. A brother had used hard expressions against a 
 brother in presence of the brethren, such as "from the 
 preaching of Bro. M. there was apparent a spirit of the 
 Methodist and Kiver brethren and an Antichrist! " Con- 
 sidered, that the brother is to make proper acknowledgment 
 for these harsh expressions, otherwise we would not be sat- 
 isfied with him. 
 
58 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1821. 
 
 Article 1. AVhether an ordained brother may collect 
 debts by the power of the law? Considered, that no 
 brother, much less one that is ordained, has a right to do 
 so according to gospel doctrine, neither for himself nor for 
 another. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether an ordained or private brother may 
 serve as an executor, where he knows beforehand that the 
 law must be enforced, as has been likewise considered, that 
 it should not be according to the gospel doctrine. Bust in- 
 asmuch as many brethren are in such a position the coun- 
 cil is to have patience with them, until they can get 
 through with it, yet so as not to break the bread of com- 
 munion with them. Since, however, an executorship is 
 very difficult for brethren, it was deemed necessary to 
 adopt measures to obviate or lessen the difficulties. And 
 inasmuch as every parent (or other person of sound mind) 
 has a right to make a will according to his own pleasure, 
 without being interfered with by the authorities, to divide 
 and distribute his property, and also to select his executors, 
 and to order them what they are to do, and how to do it 
 (the testator may insert in his will the following clause), 
 viz. : "I nominate and appoint A. B. to be sole executor ot 
 my estate, to settle, pay off, and collect, etc., as far as the 
 rules of our church and the gospel will admit of," etc. 
 
 Art. 3. How far brethren have liberty to commune with 
 men who do not strictly adhere to the truth, was considerd 
 in council, thus : That it is very dangerous to commune 
 with such people as do not hold entirely the doctrine of 
 Christ, since the apostle says, "If there come any unto 
 you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not in your 
 house, neither bid him God-speed" (II. John, 10); and 
 the counsel is, to give them no liberty to speak in our 
 meetings. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 59 
 
 Art. 4. How far a brother is at liberty in giving testi- 
 mony, to speak the truth before the higher powers, inas- 
 much as different forms are presented to brethren? Consid- 
 ered, that a brother by no means should take the liberty 
 to lift up his hand, but should obey simply the counsel of 
 the gospel, saying yea , if it is yea, and nay, if it is nay ; 
 "for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.' 
 
 Art. 5. Whether brethren may have distilleries or not i 
 It was considered to leave it by what was concluded some 
 thirty years ago, that no brother would be allowed to have 
 a distillery, or to distill ardent spirits. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether members (persons) might be received 
 into the church, who have been but once immersed (with- 
 out baptizing them in the manner we believe it ought to 
 be done according to the gospel) ? It was considered, that 
 a threefold immersion is the true baptism ; but if such per- 
 sons would be content with their baptism, and yet acknowl- 
 edge the Brethren's order as right, we would leave it over 
 to them, and receive them with the laying on of hands and 
 prayer. 
 
 Art. 7. What is to be done when a member commits a 
 fault which is not between brother and brother, but pub- 
 licly, against the gospel ? Considered, that such a member 
 (provided it is no crime, such as stated in I. Cor. 5) should 
 always make acknowledgment before the church. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1822. 
 
 Article 1. Whether a brother might be set forward to 
 baptize and break bread who does not wear his beard ; it 
 was considered, that according to the image of God (in 
 which man was created), and according to the image of 
 Christ, we ought to (leave our beard undisturbed or) wear 
 our beard (at least in part), and that no brother should be 
 
60 MINUTES OF 
 
 so far advanced who could not deny himself in this matter. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether a brother might serve in a* worldly 
 office or as a juryman, was considered, that no follower of 
 Jesus can serve in such, and if he could get relieved with 
 money (by paying a flue), he should not serve herein 
 
 Art. 3. Whether there should be something of the sup- 
 per on the table at feet-washing, it was the unanimous 
 agreement in the council of the great meeting that it should 
 not be. 
 
 Art. 4. Whether it [is right for a brother to take the 
 benefit of the law, was considered, that when a brother is 
 so imprudent that he falls under the power of law, he is 
 not to have privilege to take the benefit of the law, but to 
 seek counsel from the church. Yet it would be always 
 best to seek counsel before a member comes so far. 
 
 Art. 5. When a member is put in avoidance, how far is 
 his companion in wedlock to be held as a member? It was 
 considered, that she may be held as a member, yet so as 
 not to break the bread of communion. 
 
 Art. 6. How far should a brother keep house without 
 counseling the church, or members without counseling the 
 housekeeper? It was considered, that the brother who is 
 housekeeper should always act in concert with the church, 
 especially with his co-laborers in the church, and just so his 
 co-laborers should always counsel with their elder brother, 
 and a private brother should not undertake to teach or 
 serve until the church calls him to it. 
 
 Art. 7. Concerning the abuse of tobacco. This has been 
 before the meeting already before this, and was always 
 considered a shamefully bad habit [German, Untugend) — 
 and every thing bad, says the apostle, is sin, and sin defileth 
 the body; and another apostle says, that your bodies, to- 
 gether with soul and spirit, shall be holy. 
 
 Art. 8. How it is considered, when members will not 
 heed the counsel of love of the brethren, with regard to 
 conforming to the world in clothing, etc. It was consid- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 61 
 
 ered, for the third time in the great council, that when a 
 member has been admonished in love once and again, we 
 would not break bread with such. Bat at this meeting it 
 has been considered, that when they will not receive coun- 
 sel in love, we could not hold such member in full fellow- 
 ship according to the gospel. Also such who permit those 
 high fashions in their children who are yet under their 
 control, and especially the bishops and ministers in 
 the church should be examples of the flock. 
 
 Art. 9. With regard to distilleries (held or carried on) 
 by members of the church, it was again testified that it 
 could not be permitted. 
 
 Art. 10. How it is viewed when a brother assigns his 
 property to another, with a view to defraud his neighbors 
 (creditors). It is considered, that we can not hold them in 
 fellowship. 
 
 Art. 11. Whether we might have two tables at love-feast, 
 and also at other meetings ; that is, whether members 
 might prepare something warm for the old brethren, and 
 also elderly and weakly members, besides what is served up 
 for all in general — was considered, that members should be 
 at perfect liberty to show their love toward their old breth- 
 ren or weakly members, to set before them what they like ; 
 yet we would counsel in love to be careful that no bad dis- 
 tinction is made, so that friends and well-wishers are pre- 
 ferred to those that are weakly. 
 
 Art. 12. Whether it be right for a follower of Jesus to 
 take interest, was considered, that neither the law nor the 
 gospel gives us such privilege, and that it should not be 
 among the membership. 
 
 Art. 13. How shall the church conduct itself toward 
 those members that have been separated from the church? 
 Considered, first, when a member is separated from the 
 church as far as from the kiss, breaking of bread, and 
 church council, such ought to be diligently exhorted ac- 
 cording to the evidence of the apostle, but could not be 
 
62 MINUTES OF 
 
 called brother. But wheu such would not receive the ad- 
 monition ot love, aud should fall into more grievous sins, 
 the church has to put them in avoidance, and have no com- 
 pany with them, according to the word of the apostle. 
 
 Art. 14. Concerning breaking up in the morning after 
 love-feast, it was considered that members and their chil- 
 dren who stay till morning, should not separate and leave 
 until prayer and thanksgiving to God is made. 
 
 Art. 15. Whether a brother may take the liberty to go 
 on the muster ground or take part in the festivities of In- 
 dependence-day ? Considered that no brother should take 
 the liberty to go to such places. 
 
 Art. 16. Wheu a member is put in avoidance, how far is 
 his companion in wedlock to be held as a member ? It was 
 considered that she may be held as a member, yet so as not 
 to break the bread of communion. 
 
 Art. 17. With regard to persons who live m adultery, it 
 was considered that they could not be received into the 
 church as long as they live in such condition. 
 
 Art. 18. Concerning the form or proposing oaths in or- 
 der to save one's conscience for the gospel's sake, whether 
 we could answer with yea such a form, "And this you do 
 under the pains and penalties of perjury? " It was consid- 
 ered, if a brother were grieved herein, let him counsel 
 whether there was no other form for us. 
 
 Art. 19. Concerning the form or manner of swearing 
 oaths to save our consciences for the gospel's sake, whether 
 we could answer with yea such a form, viz. : "And this you 
 do under the pains and penalties of perjury ? " It has been 
 considered, that if a brother were oppressed or troubled 
 herein, let him consider or seek counsel, whether there is 
 no other form for us. 
 
 Art. 20. At the yearly meeting in Ohio, 1822, the ques- 
 tion was presented, whether such as were not members 
 could be present in our church councils, and the answer 
 was: "Considered, as it was at all times considered, that it 
 could not be allowed." 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 63 
 
 Art. 21. If a brother has a vendue, and gives freely 
 strong drink, how is it considered ? It was considered, that 
 no brother should give strong drink at the sale of his 
 property. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1825. 
 
 Artcle 1. Whether a brother may keep and sell strong 
 drink, has been considered thus: because so often disorder 
 is caused by strong drink, it is improper for a brother to 
 sell it, and should not be at all suffered. 
 
 Art. 2. "Whether a brother may take a mortgage or judg- 
 ment bond of another brother, was considered, that breth- 
 ren should be as careful of the interest of their neighbor as 
 of their own, and not be selfish ; and inasmuch to take bail 
 for large sums is deemed wrong, it is not improper to secure 
 a debt by mortgage or judgment. 
 
 Art. Concerning separation or excommunication, being 
 viewed of unequal degrees. It was considered, that accord- 
 ing to apostolic doctrine, such having committed gross or 
 vicious sins, must be put entirely in avoidance, while less 
 transgressions only precluded from the kiss, brotherly coun- 
 sel, and the breaking of bread. 
 
 Art. 4. Whether a brother may teach singing-schools, 
 was considered, that the musical schools, as they are gene- 
 rally conducted, have nothing to do with the service of God, 
 and that a brother should teach none. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether a brother minister that involves him- 
 self in debts, and assigns his property to his children, could 
 serve in the ministry of the word, was considered, that 
 "when the creditors should be defrauded thereby, he should 
 give himself over to the (judgment of the) church, and 
 without doubt ought not to serve (in the office of a minister). 
 
64 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art, 6. Concerning a brother holding the office of jus- 
 tice of the peace, has been twice before the big meeting, 
 and was always considered that it was not at all consistent 
 with the gospel ; but as something more definite is request- 
 ed, the counsel is now, if such an one has been admonished 
 already before to give up that office, and is once and again 
 admonished (in the name of the church) to do so, and will 
 not give it up, such an one we could not hold as a brother. 
 
 Art. 7. At the yearly meeting in Morrison's Cove, 1825, 
 the question was presented, "In case members commit a 
 public fault for which an acknowledgment is required, 
 should it be made publicly, or only before the church ? It 
 was considered, in case the transgression was made without 
 the church, and is deemed by the world a fault, and the 
 transgressor should feel in himself urged to it (to make a 
 public confession), in such case it might be good; but if it 
 should be something that is not deemed a transgression bv 
 the world, and the conviction were not truly born from 
 within, or from the heart, then it would be no light before 
 the world, and it would be better done before the member- 
 ship. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1827. 
 
 Article 1. About the ordinance of anointing the sick, 
 the manner of proceeding has ever been, first to sing a few 
 verses, and with a united prayer to turn to God. Then 
 (there should always be two brethren) the one reaches forth 
 his hand and the other poureth the oil on it, and the first 
 puts the same on the head of the sick, and says the words, 
 which the Apostle James teaches (chap. v. 14), "Thou art 
 anointed in the name of the Lord," and thus three times, 
 but the words only once said. Then both brethren lay 
 their hands upon the head of the sick, and pray over him, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 65 
 
 For it is not considered to be intended only an inward unc- 
 tion, but an outward anointing, whereof the apostle speaks, 
 as mentioned before 
 
 Art. 2. About the avoidance and restoration of mem- 
 bers. When a member, on account of crimes committed, 
 must be separated and put in avoidance, and should after- 
 ward become reformed in life and conduct, and apply for 
 restoration or for release from the avoidance, and the church 
 could not yet feel satisfied to restore such entirely, they 
 might be released; and should such fall again into crime, 
 Ave would have a right to put them again into avoidance. 
 
 Art. 3. Concerning receiving persons who have been bap- 
 tized in the proper manner by other denominations. Con- 
 sidered, that those who have been received before with the 
 laying on of hands (and prayer), we receive with hand and 
 kiss; and those on whom the laying on of hands had not 
 been observed, we should receive by the laying on of hands, 
 etc., etc. 
 
 Art. 4. Concerning receiving sick persons who can not 
 be baptized on account of their sickness and weakness, was 
 considered, that they might be received, and if they should 
 die, they might die as members, but if they should live and 
 be well again, they should and would be baptized. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether a brother holding an office in the church 
 may distill ardent spirits, was considered, and concluded 
 that it is not becoming for any brother to do so, much less 
 foi* a brother in office. 
 
 Art. G. "Whether there should be no other meat but mut- 
 ton at the supper was generally considered as most agreea- 
 ble (to our feelings "gemuthlichste") to take mutton, as it 
 has been always customary with the ancient brethren, yet 
 to make no law herein, and to bear with one another. 
 
 Art. 7. With regard to selling bonds, it was considered, 
 that none should be sold by which poor people might be 
 oppressed; but since circumstances are so different, the 
 church should be counseled (asked for counsel in any case). 
 
Q6 - MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 8. How is it considered to lay carpets in (our) 
 houses? It was considered that it belongs to the grandeur 
 (highness) of this world, and that it will not become a fol- 
 lower of Jesus to garnish his house in this manner, but 
 rather that he should adorn his house as may be consistent 
 with lowliness. 
 
 Art. 9. Concerning taking pay for solemnizing mar- 
 riages and preaching funeral sermons. It was unanimously 
 considered, that it should not be among brethren. 
 
 Art. 10. Whether we may be allowed to hold infares? 
 Considered, that it (such things) belongs to pride, extrava- 
 gance, and vanity, and should not be among members. 
 
 Art. 11 . How it is considered, if a brother keeps a brew- 
 ery, and makes strong beer? Considered, though it could 
 not be directly forbidden to a brother, but ought to be left 
 to his own conscience, and (yet we wish) to advise him 
 that the safest way would be, not to carry on such a busi- 
 iness, from which may arise so many and great disorders." 
 
 Art. 12. Concerning members who engage in the raising 
 of tobacco ? Considered, that members should have noth- 
 ing to do with such things, by which so much mischief is 
 done, and so many men (and women too) are led captive, 
 as is the case with tabacco. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1828. 
 
 Article 1. Whether a brother can belong to the Free- 
 masons and still be a brother (in the church) ? Considered, 
 that it can not be. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether we may conform ourselves to the world 
 with unnecessary things on our carriages? Considered, 
 that it can not be. (See foregoing note.) 
 
 Art. 3. Whether brethren may go to the elections? It 
 is the opinion of most of the brethren that we should keep 
 ourselves free (clear) of them. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 67 
 
 Art. 4. Whether we may do labor on Sunday, it was 
 deemed good to refrain from it. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether a member might be anointed more 
 than once, was considered and decided, that it maybe done 
 on request of the sick person. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether a person may be received into the 
 church, having been immersed but once ? It is the coun- 
 sel to be better that tliey should be baptized again in the 
 true order. 
 
 Art. 7. Whether we had a right to cause a candidate for 
 baptism to make a vow ? It was considered, that it is ac- 
 cording to the gospel to receive them in the order of the 
 Brethren as usual. 
 
 Art. 8. Whether the holy kiss should be observed at 
 feet-washing and the breaking of bread ? Considered, that 
 it is right and proper. 
 
 Art. 9. Whether the holy kiss should have a place at 
 feet-washing (between those who serve and those who are 
 served) ; and at (before) the breaking of bread? Consid- 
 ered, that it should be. (The new commandment (John 
 xin. 34, 35) brings it very near to both ordinances, and a 
 love^feastwithout this token of love would scarcely deserve 
 the name. 
 
 Art. 10. Whether we might have small love-feasts ? 
 
 Art. 11. Whether brethren may have carpets in their 
 houses, was considered, that it can not and should not be, 
 because it leads to elevation (pride). 
 
 Art. 12. Whether brethren may have distilleries was 
 considered, and concluded that it should not be, nor by 
 their children, as far as the authority of the parents ex- 
 tends ; and if such brother will not take (or obey) the ad- 
 vice, we could not commune nor have fellowship with him. 
 Also, to sell grain to distilleries (especially) when grain is 
 scarce, should indeed not be. 
 
 Art. 13. Whether, if a member sees another member 
 commit sin publicly against truth, the first is in duty bound 
 
68 MINUTES OF 
 
 to speak privately to the failing member, or (at once to) 
 present the ease to one of the leading brethren ? Consid- 
 ered (whether to do the first), it is as a member may choose 
 but to do the latter remains his duty, inasmuch as public sins 
 can not be atoned for between member and member. 
 
 Art. 14. "Whether we may build meeting-houses? Con- 
 sidered, to leave it over to every'church to do as they deem 
 good. 
 
 Art. 15. Whether we might hold small (private, not 
 publicly announced) love-feasts? Considered, in cases where 
 there are but few members (or where a member is on a sick 
 bed, desirous to partake once more), provided that one or- 
 dained, brother would be present, and that every thing 
 would be done at the right time and in proper order, there 
 could be no objection at all, and it would not be contrary 
 to the (word of) truth ; yet care should be taken that it 
 may not cause grief (pressure) or loss of affection. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1830. 
 
 Article 1. Whether a minister may break the bread, of 
 communion and communicate the cup of thanksgiving to 
 a sick person who is not a member? Considered, as con- 
 trary to our faith and conscience, and as more advisable to 
 point or direct the sick to Christ and inward communion. 
 Another question presented and answered, that sick per- 
 sons, who wish to be baptized, but feel too weak, might be 
 received under the promise, that if restored to health they 
 would submit to the command and ordinance of Christ, 
 and in case of their death they may find comfort in there- 
 flection that God sees their good intentions, and may accept 
 them for the deed. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF TEE BRETHREN. 69 
 
 Art. 2. Whether a brother may take a wife who has al- 
 ready a husband, but is deserted and set free by him? This 
 has long since been considered that it can not be according 
 to the word and gospel. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1831. 
 
 Article 1. Whether it was considered advisable for a 
 member to have his son educated in a college ? Considered 
 not advisable, inasmuch as experience has taught that such 
 very seldom will come back afterward to the humble ways 
 of the Lord. 
 
 Art. 2. "Whether it could be approved of when the broth- 
 erly kiss is so often omitted, even at meetings and love- 
 feasts ? Considered, no, not at all. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1832. 
 
 Article 1. How is it considered if a brother serves on a 
 grand jury, and bears testimony against a brother, by 
 which the latter is caused to suffer costs, and the testimony 
 is not given from necessity or duty, but from want of love? 
 Considered, that serving on juries was ever deemed im- 
 proper for brethren ; but in this special case the church 
 where it occurred, and who should know and weigh all the 
 circumstances, should judge according to the law of Christ, 
 according to the testimony. 
 
 Art. 2. "Whether such may participate in the Lord's 
 Supper who are not members, if there is room? Consid- 
 ered, to leave it to the churches, when there is such room. 
 
 Art. 3. Whether it would be approved, when brethren 
 engage in storekeeping and selling of strong drinks? 
 
70 MINUTES OF 
 
 Considered, the first might be allowed in cases of necessity, 
 where a brother has no other way to make a living, but the 
 latter in no case whatever. 
 
 Art, 4. Concerning the omitting of the holy kiss among 
 members. Considered, that it should not be, and that it is 
 an evidence of a want of love. 
 
 Art. 5. How to do when a brother is indebted to anoth- 
 er, and becomes insolvent? Answer. The church should 
 deal with him according to the circumstances or degrees of 
 aggravation, according to the word. 
 
 Art. 6. How is it considered concerning persons who 
 wish to be received, and had already been immersed but 
 once by other Baptists ? Considered, that some have been 
 received without baptism, as we believe it ought to be per- 
 formed, and they afterward came of their own accord to 
 receive the baptism according to the word. 
 
 Art. 7. "Whether at a council concerning candidates for 
 baptism, their nearest friends should withdraw ? Decided 
 as before. 
 
 Art. 8. Change of the time of yearly meeting. Meeting 
 to commence on Pentecost, with public meeting and love- 
 feast. Monday and Tuesday, council meeting. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1833. 
 
 Article 1. "Whether we are to immerse at baptism once 
 or thrice? It was considered, that we can not deem any 
 other baptism as valid, according to the word of God, but 
 a threefold immersion. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether there is any difference in using the law 
 for our own benefit or only as executors or administrators? 
 Considered, there is none in reality ; it is wrong for our- 
 selves, it is wrong if we do it for others. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 71 
 
 Art. 3. Whether a brother who was chosen to the (min- 
 istry of the) word in one church, and moves into another 
 with a good testimony, can be relieved from his office (or 
 rather literally put back from it) ? It was always consid- 
 ered, when a ministering brother moves out of the church 
 which chose him, he moves out of his office — that is, before 
 he is fully ordained; and that it was at the option of the 
 church into which he moves to receive him with his office 
 or not. If his life and conduct inspire love and confidence, 
 it will not be long before he may be called to exercise his 
 ministry again. Have patience! 
 
 Art. 4. Whether a person may be admitted to our (com- 
 munion or) breaking of bread, who is not baptized accord- 
 ing to gospel (as we understand it) ? Considered, no. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether the supper must he on the table at feet- 
 washing? (Xo; there is no such command in the gospel; 
 and if the example of Christ is urged, it is also a mooted, 
 doubtful question on this point. It must be recollected 
 that the translators of our modern version of the Xew 
 Testament did not believe or practice feet-washing, or know 
 any thing about the real Lord's Supper, calling the com- 
 munion of bread and wine the Lord's Supper. We all be- 
 lieve that John sin. 2 is wrongly translated by saying, 
 "Supper being ended" before feet-washing is mentioned, 
 while it is evident, from verses 26-30, that supper was not 
 ended then). 
 
 Art. 6. Whether the supper must be on the table at feet- 
 washing? Answered as before. 
 
 Art. 7. Whether a member has a right to appeal to the 
 yearly meeting, when put back by the council of his church? 
 The answer, not recorded, was similar to the following : 
 
 Art. 8. About the making and using of strong drink, a 
 strong testimony was made at this meeting against it. 
 
' - MINUTES OF 
 
 ANXUAL MEETING OF 1834. 
 
 Articlz 1. How it is considered to sins: at or during the 
 breaking of bread? Considered, as not proper, but at the 
 distribution of the cup very proper. It was also remarked, 
 that there should be no drinking without necessity while 
 the supper is served, until all is served up, and a blessing asked 
 of God, because we are to "tarry for one another." 
 
 Art. 2. Whether we may work on Sunday, such as saw- 
 ing (on sawmills,) shooting, moving, etc. It was considered, 
 that it should not be by any means, but that we ought to 
 spend the Sunday in stillness, and in the fear of God, in 
 order to be offensive to no one. 
 
 Art. 3. Whether we may take interest from a brother? 
 Considered somewhat differently, but our (charity) modera- 
 tion should be known, and we should be willing to lend to 
 the poor without interest. 
 
 Art. 4. Whether we could receive into our church a per- 
 son that has been immersed once backward, without bap- 
 tizing him again ? Considered, that though it has been 
 done before, still we believe that the best and safest way is 
 to baptize them right, and according to the proper order 
 (as we believe), and that hereafter it should not be done 
 otherwise. 
 
 Art. 5. How it is considered, when a member who was 
 received after having been baptized with only one immer- 
 sion backward, without receiving baptism according to our 
 order, moves into another church, and there is required to 
 be baptized? Answer in foregoing article 4. 
 
 Art. 6. Concerning a certain brother's certificate; whether 
 a certificate could be given to a brother minister who moves 
 away from his church without paying his debts ? Special 
 advice given, but not noted. 
 
 Art. 7. How is it viewed when a ministering brother, as 
 executor or administrator of an estate, is compelled to use 
 the law? Considered, he should do nothing without the 
 counsel of the church. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 73 
 
 Art. 8. Concerning the office of supervisor and other 
 worldly offices, was considered, that brethren should keep 
 themselves clear of them as much as possible. 
 
 Art. 9. Concerning high and fashionable clothing, etc., 
 and conformity to the world, it was considered a great evil 
 as heretofore, which is not to be tolerated in the church. 
 
 Art. 10. How it is considered when a brother, not yet 
 ordained, should administer the communion in presence of 
 ordained brethren? (If the ordained brethren desire him 
 to do so, there can be no objection; on the contrary, 
 it is desirable for young hands in any work to have more 
 experienced friends near to advise or assist.) 
 
 Art. 11. Whether a brother can serve on a jury, where a 
 man is tried for his life (as a murderer) ? Considered, no, 
 it can not be at all. 
 
 Art. 12. If a brother who is a minister should transgress 
 so that the church has to set him back, and if he is after- 
 wards received again upon his acknowledgment, whether 
 he is to be received with or without his office ? Considered, 
 that depends upon the church, aud also upon the nature of 
 his transgression. 
 
 Art. 1-3. Concerning a sister's preaching. Not approved 
 of; considering such sister being in danger, not only ex- 
 posing her own state of grace to temptation, but also caus- 
 ing temptations, discord, and disputes among other mem- 
 bers. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1835. 
 
 Article 1. How it is viewed to receive colored people 
 into our church ? Considered, to make no difference on 
 account of color. 
 
 Art. 2. Concerning the trouble between- Bro. M. L. and 
 the church, L. was earnestly admonished by the old breth- 
 
74 MINUTES OF 
 
 ren to amend his ways ; not to creep into houses in order 
 to bring members into confusion and cause division in the 
 church, inasmuch as they (the old brethren) saw and under- 
 stood what manner of spirit was in him. For if he should 
 come so far as to speak in a traducing and railing spirit 
 against the church, he would have to be put in avoidance. 
 
 Art. 3. Concerning taking interest. Considered not 
 allowed by thegospel, and brethren should beware of usury 
 (unlawful interest) especially. 
 
 Art. 4. How it is considered when brethren go with 
 their children to shows ? Considered, it should not be. 
 
 Art. 5. How it is viewed to elect brethren for the min- 
 istry by lot ? Considered, to abide the manner of holding 
 a choice hitherto observed. 
 
 Art. 6. Concerning the commencement of Yearly Meet- 
 ings on Saturday, or according to the ancient order. No 
 change made at this time. (See further, "Annual Meetings.)" 
 
 Art. 7. How it is considered when brethren go to mus- 
 ter and drill. Considered, that it is contrary to our baptis- 
 mal vow, contrary to the word of God, and contrary to the 
 professed principle of the church, and can by no means be 
 permitted or tolerated. 
 
 Art. 8. How is it considered, it ministers move into 
 churches where there is no ordained elder, whether they 
 can be received where no bishop is present? No; there 
 ought to be one or more bishops invited for the occasion, 
 or the matter postponed to another time. Meanwhile, 
 those new comers may serve in their office as guests. 
 
 Art. 9. How it is considered to sell grain to distilleries? 
 Should not be, except in case of necessity. 
 
 Art. 10. How it is considered when brethren keep tav- 
 ern ? Considered, as entirely unbecoming for brethren. 
 
 Art. 11. What is the order to receive applicants for bap- 
 tism ? It is necessary that there should be self-knowledge, 
 repentance, and faith, together with scriptural instruction, 
 and then that it may be done with the counsel of the church. 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 75 
 
 Art. 12. How it is considered to receive colored persons 
 into the church? (The object of the question was not 
 whether they should be received at all, but whether they 
 could or must be received or treated altogether like white 
 members). It was considered, that inasmuch as the gospel 
 is to be preached to all nations and races, and if they come 
 as repentant sinners, believing in the gospel of Jesus Christ, 
 and apply for baptism, we could not consistently refuse 
 them. But inasmuch we receive our fellow members with 
 the holy kiss, and there is a repugnance in some of our 
 white members to salute colored persons in this manner, 
 the colored members should bear with that weakness, and 
 not offer the kiss to such weak members until they become 
 stronger, and make the first offer, etc. Otherwise, if they 
 (the colored members) prove faithful, they should be con- 
 sidered on an equality of full membership. 
 
 Art. 13. How it is considered when brethren go with 
 their children to shows? Considered, it should not be. 
 
 Art. 14. Concerning the commencement of yearly meet- 
 ings on Saturday, or according to the ancient order. No 
 change made at this time. 
 
 Art. 15. "What is the duty of a visiting brother? First, 
 as visiting brethren and overseers of the poor in the church, 
 they have to assist and attend to the yearly general visit 
 from house to house; and it is necessary, and their duty, 
 when the church is divided into different visit districts, to 
 take the lead in the visit as well as that of the ministers ; 
 and in case the ministers could not assist on account of sick- 
 ness, it is the duty of the deacons to carry out the visit with 
 other brethren, and to bring before the minister and the 
 church what they have found. Further, when any thing 
 of importance is to be investigated in the church, the min- 
 isters have the right to request them (the deacons) to ac- 
 company them, or if the case is not of special importance, 
 to send them (the deacons) to investigate the matter and 
 bring it before the ministry. Further, it is their duty, in- 
 
76 MINUTES -OF 
 
 asmuch as they have been elected to be overseers of the 
 poor, to visit the sick, especially if they are poor, who may 
 be in distress by reason of sickness or other causes, to ex- 
 amine their case, and to report to the ministry, and, if 
 necessary, the ministers to hold a council with the church 
 what is further to be done. "When money or grain is con- 
 tributed in the church for the poor in the church, it is their 
 duty to keep a regular book account of what they receive 
 and what they lay out for the poor or otherwise for the 
 church, so that they are able at times to render an account 
 with and to the church. Upon the whole, all that may oc- 
 cur in the church and is to be investigated, is committed to 
 their care, and if they hear of any thing, to bring it before 
 the ministers, to counsel whether it is to be examined, and 
 to see it done if found necessary. 
 
 Further, it is their calling to assist the ministers at meet- 
 ing, by reading the Scriptures, by using freedom in prayer, 
 and to bear testimony to what was spoken ; and if it should 
 happen that no minister (of the word) could come to meet- 
 ing, it is their duty to lead the worship by singing, prayer, 
 and reading the Scriptures, and if they feel so, to exhort 
 to the edification of the congregation ; yet it was the coun- 
 sel of the old brethren that it is not their calliug to rise on 
 their feet in order to exhort; and thus to conclude the 
 meeting in the usual order, and to make the ordinary ap- 
 pointments for meeting. Again, when a minister is called 
 to hold meetings in another district, and he requests the 
 visiting brethren to give him company and assistance, it is 
 their duty to assist, and one or the other to go with him. 
 
 Further, it is their duty to serve at tables; when a love- 
 feast is held, ;to make the necessary preparations, to call as 
 many other brethren as they need to assist, and at the time 
 of the love-feast to see to it that the sisters can get all 
 things ready at the proper time, and themselves setting the 
 tables, and so in all things see to it that everything is done 
 decently and in order. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 77 
 
 Art. 16. ' Concerning going to elections and serving as 
 jurymen. It was considered in both cases, that brethren 
 should hold themselves loose as much as possible, or en- 
 tirely, which is best. Particularly, no brother should take 
 part in electioneering at an election, which is deemed very 
 hurtful, and should not be among brethren, etc. 
 
 Art. 17. Concerning serving on juries at trials for life or 
 death ? Answered as before. 
 
 Art. 18. How is it viewed for brethren to sell gram to 
 distillers? Considered, that it should not be, especially if 
 grain is scarce and high in price. Besides, it was men- 
 tioned of the abuse and harm which comes from what is 
 made by the distiller, and that brethren should take no 
 part in it, and by no means use distilled liquors for a com- 
 mon beverage, nor offer it to those that work for them. 
 
 Art. 19. How is it considered, when members wash the 
 feet or salute with the holy kiss those who are not mem- 
 bers of the church? Considered, we should not do so, if 
 it gives offense. 
 
 Art. 20. How it it is considered, when brethren keep 
 tavern ? Considered, as entirely unbecoming for brethren. 
 
 Art. 21. What is the order to receive applicants for bap- 
 tism ? It is necessary that there should be self-knowledge, 
 repentance and faith, together with scriptural instruction, 
 and then that it may be done with the counsel of the 
 church. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1836. 
 
 Article 1. Whether a brother would have a right to 
 take such money, which he had acquired as a soldier by 
 war? Considered in union, that it can not be, acccording 
 to the doctrine of Jesus. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether a brother or sister could be allowed to 
 
78 MINUTES OF 
 
 sell strong drink? Considered, that it should absolutely 
 not be. 
 
 Art. 3. What is to be done with a brother who professes 
 and claims to be urged by the spirit ot God to preach the 
 gospel, and who is not chosen by the church for it? He 
 is counseled and allowed, after the elect brethren have 
 spoken, to make known by exhortation if there is any 
 thing on his mind ; he may also use liberty in public prayer, 
 when necessary, or in reading the Scriptures, provided 
 he is acceptable by the church. 
 
 Art. 4. How is it deemed best at the yearly meeting, 
 whether first to hold council, or first public meeting and 
 communion ? It was considered as expedient, to commence 
 on Lord's day with public meeting, and in the evening 
 to break the bread of communion, and afterward to hold 
 council. 
 
 Art. 5. When a bishop is old and too feeble to serve in 
 his office fully as he ought, whether (the church) have a 
 right to select another? The counsel is, to go to counsel 
 with the nearest churches, and if looking on the propo- 
 sition favorably, and the old bishop and his church would 
 be of one mind, then it might be done. 
 
 Art. 6. What should be the name of our fraternity, 
 when a title for a meeting-house is made and recorded in 
 the public offices? Unanimously concluded to call our- 
 selves the Fraternity of German Baptists. 
 
 Art. 7. Concerning work or moving on Sunday, it was 
 considered improper to do so. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 79 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1837. 
 
 At an annual meeting held in Rockingham County, Vir- 
 ginia, at the meeting-house near Bro. John Kline, on Lin- 
 well's Creek, the 15th of May, 1837, the following points 
 have been presented to the council of the old brethren, and 
 have been considered in the fear of the Lord : 
 
 Article 1. How it is considered, if a member desires to 
 be no more with the church, and yet has committed no 
 other offense ? Since the circumstances are so different, 
 the advice is also different. If a member desires to be off, 
 and doth commit no other offense, we could have patience 
 somewhat longer with such a member than if a member 
 should speak contemptuously of the church ; Then the 
 church can judge best how soon to let it withdraw, and to 
 place it according to its desire ; yet there ought to be em- 
 ployed all possible diligence to bring back to the flock such 
 souls. But if they will not hear, there would be just cause 
 to put them as they desire. 
 
 Art. 2. How it is viewed, if a member is accused of a 
 crime only on testimony from out of the church ? Whether 
 it would be right to take a member into judgment (before 
 the church) on such a testimony? The counsel is to make 
 strict investigation, and if there should be nothing found, 
 and the member continued to deny the charge, it could not 
 be judged on testimony out of the church alone. 
 
 Art. 3. How it is considered, to make a better arrange- 
 ment in holding annual meetings according to the pattern 
 of the apostles? (Acts xv.) The unanimous counsel of 
 this meeting and desire of the old brethren is, to follow the 
 track of the apostles as closely as possible. Therefore the 
 council-meeting ought to consist of the elders and all the 
 members of that church which receives the meeting, and 
 of such teachers, ministers, or (private) members, who may 
 be sent as delegates from the other churches. It is consid- 
 ered necessary that every church, or, where the distance is 
 
80 MINUTES OF 
 
 too great, several churches together, should send two, three, 
 or more delegates to the annual meeting. The yearly 
 meeting is to take place as heretofore on Pentecost, or 
 "Whitsuntide, and the council-meeting to be held on Fri- 
 day and Saturday before, to which end the delegates ought 
 to arrive in the neighborhood on Thursday eveuing. The 
 public meeting begins on Sunday, when a love-feast will be 
 held, and the church is at liberty to invite thereto also 
 neighboring churches as usual. The proceedings of the 
 council-meeting should be immediately recorded in writing, 
 and as much as possible communicated to all the churches. 
 
 Art. 4. How it is considered, to administer the anoint- 
 ing of the sick, or to hold an election, without an ordained 
 brother (elder) being present? It is the advice, that the 
 anointing of the sick should not be administered without 
 an ordained brother, except in a case of necessity, that no 
 such is to be had ; for the word says : Call for the elders of 
 the church. As to holding elections, it is considered that 
 no election ought to be held without the presence of (two 
 or) at least one ordained brother. 
 
 Art. 5. If a brother is at liberty to serve as cryer or 
 clerk at public vendues ? It is the counsel of the meeting, 
 that no brother should take the liberty to cry at vendues, 
 because it is unbecoming for a brother so to serve. As to 
 the clerkship at vendues, it could not be considered quite 
 so unbecoming, yet so that brethren ought to refrain from 
 such things as much as possible. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether the sense of the words of the Savior 
 (Matt, xvin ), "Let him be unto thee as a heathen man and 
 a publican,'' is the same as the sense of the apostle, when 
 he says (I. Cor. v.), "Have no company with him," etc. 
 It is understood by the meeting almost unanimously, that 
 the expression of the Savior, "Let him be unto thee as a 
 heathen man and a publican," excludes a member only so 
 far as from the church-council, from the kiss and the break- 
 ing of bread ; but that it is the sense of the apostle, when 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 81 
 
 he speaks of the vicious, "Have no company with him," 
 and after noticing the vices adds yet, "with such a one 
 (you ought) no not to eat," that we ought to avoid such a 
 one altogether according to the sense of the word. 
 
 Art. 7. How it is considered if members go to the pub- 
 lic election and vote, or even previously already electioneer 
 for the candidates of office? It is the advice of the old 
 brethren to keep ourselves also in this respect as free as 
 possible, and rather not go to the election. As regards 
 electioneering, it is the sense of the brethren that no broth- 
 er ought to interfere so far with the offices and government 
 of this world, according to the word. 
 
 Art. 8. When persons desire, to be received through bap- 
 tism into the church, if it be necessary, to instruct them 
 before baptism of the taking of oaths, going to war, and 
 the like, that according to our view it is forbidden in the 
 gospel? The advice is, that such persons ought, if possi- 
 ble, to be visited before their baptism, and by all means to 
 be previously instructed of the following points, viz. : Of 
 the taking of oaths, going to war and to muster, to use the 
 power of the law contrary to the gospel, and to conform to 
 the fashions of this world in apparel and the like; and that 
 they ought to state before their reception their willingness 
 to refrain from all such things. 
 
 Art. 9. How it is considered if members take more than 
 lawful interest ? Considered, that it ought to be by no 
 means ; and if a brother should do so, he ought to be visit- 
 ed, and if he would not take advice, we could not be sat- 
 isfied with him. 
 
 Art. 10. How it is considered if a brother buys and keeps 
 slaves, and sells them also again ? Considered, that it could 
 in no wise be justified in a brother, according to the gospel. 
 
 Art. 11. How it is considered when a brother keeps a 
 
 brewry, and makes strong beer ? Considered, that it could 
 
 not be directly forbidden to a brother, but ought to be left 
 
 to his own conscience, and to advise him that the safest 
 G 
 
82 MINUTES OF 
 
 way would be not to carry on such a business, from which 
 may arise so many and great disorders. 
 
 Art. 12. How it is viewed to receive persons into the 
 church without baptism, in case of sickness and bodily in- 
 firmity ? Considered, that we have no express word for it, 
 and that it would be more advisable and more safe to direct 
 them to the mercy of God in Christ. Yet we would in cer- 
 tain singular cases not set bounds, but advise all teachers 
 to be careful to do nothing without the counsel of their 
 fellow laborers, and, if it be possible, of their church. 
 
 In conclusion, the brethren united to hold their next 
 yearly meeting with the brethren in the neighborhood of 
 Hagerstown, Maryland, on Pentecost, 1838. 
 
 Signed by the elders present — Daniel Gerber, John Floh- 
 ry, David Pfautz, Daniel Arnold, Joseph Gerber, Christ. 
 Johnson, John Price, George Hoke, Abraham Gerber, 
 Benj. Bowman, Abraham Yandt, Daniel Reiehard. 
 
 f . 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1833. 
 
 At the yearly meeting, held in Washington County, Ma- 
 ryland, on the 1st and 2d of June, Anno Salutis 1838, the 
 following queries were laid before the council of the— in 
 God beloved — brethren, and considered in the fear of God : 
 
 Article 1. Whether a congregation has the right, accord- 
 ing to the gospel, to put a member in avoidance or not? 
 Considered, that the old brethren always have thought it 
 right, and still think it right, according to the gospel, to put 
 members in avoidance in accordance with the word of the 
 apostle. I. Cor. v. 9-11. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether it is considered proper to hold singing- 
 schools in our meeting-houses ? Chiefly considered, that 
 meeting-houses are no proper places for holding singing- 
 schools therein. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 83 
 
 Art. 3. Whether it is proper for a member to build dis- 
 tilleries, or to distill ardent spirits? Considered, as it has 
 been considered these many years, that it ought not to be. 
 
 Art. 4. Whether a common brother has the right to go 
 out, to appoint or let others appoint meetings for himself, 
 or generally to teach publicly without the counsel of the 
 church? Considered, that a brother who is not intrusted 
 with the office, is not justified so to do. James in. 1. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether a member has a right to appoint a 
 meeting for a teacher who is not in our connection? Con- 
 sidered, that it ought not to be according to the exhortation 
 of the apostle. II. John v. 10. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether it be right to receive again as a private 
 member a brother that was a teacher, and had been put 
 back, without intrusting him again with the office? Con- 
 sidered, that a congregation has a right to do in such a case 
 as it seemeth good to them. 
 
 Art. 7. Whether a teacher has the right to remove out 
 of the church without the counsel of the same? Consid- 
 ered, that it is right and good that a brother, in such an 
 important undertaking should seek the counsel of his 
 church. 
 
 Art. 8. Whether in case a member falls into the judg- 
 ment of the church, the nearest relations should withdraw 
 while the counsel is taken? It has always been considered 
 best to let such relations withdraw 
 
 Art. 9. Whether we have the right to appoint deacons 
 without laying hands on them, according to the example of 
 the apostles? Acts vi. 6. Considered and resolved, to 
 postpone the further consideration of this query to the next 
 annual meeting. 
 
 Art. 10. Whether it be right for members to take~part 
 in Sunday-schools, class-meetings, and the like? Consid- 
 ered most advisable to take no part in such like things. 
 
 Art. 11. How it is considered when members go to pub- 
 lic shows, and even take their children along? Unani- 
 
84 MINUTES OF 
 
 rnously considered, that members ought to avoid 6uch 
 places, and to warn their children therefrom. 
 
 Art. 12. Whether in case that brethren who are called 
 to some ministry move from one church into another, are 
 received with their office by the church to which they have 
 removed, whether the sisters, their wives, ought to be re- 
 ceived with them, as in the case of an election? Consid- 
 ered, that it would be good to receive the sisters also with 
 them. 
 
 Art. 13. Whether persons that have been babtized for- 
 merly elsewhere with a threefold immersion, could be re- 
 ceived among us as members without baptism or not? 
 Considered almost unanimously, that when such persons 
 are satisfied with their baptism, having been performed iu 
 the right manner, they may be received as members with- 
 out baptism, yet with stating to them the order (rules, 
 principles) of the brethren, and the laying on of hands. 
 If they should, however, desire baptism, it might be grant- 
 ed to their satisfaction. 
 
 Lastly it was resolved to hold the next annual meeting, 
 God willing, by request, with our beloved brethren at Augh- 
 wick, Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, on Pentecost, 
 1839, yet so that the elders and delegated brethren ought 
 to arrive in the neighborhood, as at this time, on Thursday 
 before. 
 
 Signed by the elders present — Daniel Gerber, David 
 Pfoutz, George Hoke, John Gerber, Jacob Holsinger, Da- 
 vid Engler, sen., Abraham Yandt John Funk, John Brower, 
 Christ. Johnson, Jacob Pfoutz, Daniel Arnold, Christ. 
 Long, John Price, John Koyer, Lorenz Etter, John Farny, 
 John Beeghlv. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 85 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1839. 
 
 Article 1. Whether a brother could serve in the office 
 of a constable? No. (See above, yearly meeting 1812.) 
 
 Art. 2. How the supper should be held ? Considered, as 
 it was always held. 
 
 Art. 3. What is to be done with a brother who wants to 
 preach, and forces him into it without or contrary to the 
 counsel of the church? Considered, that such a brother, 
 having been admonished once and again, can not be held 
 as a member in full fellowship, if he is disobedient. 
 
 Art. 4. Whether a brother may give his house for hold- 
 ing a (political) election in it? The answer was no; it 
 should not be. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether a brother may be intemperate with 
 strong drink or tobacco ? No. 
 
 Art. 6. With regard to the laying on of hands on dea- 
 cons, it was concluded to leave it as heretofore. (See also 
 yearly meetings, 1844, 1 ; 1845, 11 ; 1846, 3; Tenn. 6. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1840. 
 
 Letter of the Yearly Meeting of the Ancient Brethren, held in 
 Morrison's Cove, Bedjord, County, Pennsylvania, on Pente- 
 cost, Jane 5-8, 1840, to all their united churches and mem- 
 bers : 
 
 May the blood of the New Testament in the power of 
 the everlasting Word, be mighty effectual in us all, that 
 we may be and remain followers of Christ in the regenera- 
 tion until the day of our redemption, when the hidden 
 things of the heart will be revealed, to the great consola- 
 tion and unspeakable joy of the loving and suffering chil- 
 dren of God in Christ Jesus. 
 
86 MINUTES OF 
 
 In this ardent desire of faith we send to all our in God 
 beloved and in faith united churches and members, broth- 
 ers and sisters, wheresoever they be, our heartfelt and joint 
 love and greeting, saying with the Apostle Paul, " Grace 
 be unto you, and peace, from God the Father, and the Lord 
 Jesus Christ." 
 
 Since it hath pleased God to spare our lives, and to count 
 us worthy once more to assemble at this yearly meeting, 
 the design of which is to promote our union in love and 
 concord of the spirit, to encourage one another to faithful- 
 ness and watchfulness in these last critical times, and to 
 strengthen us mutually in the faith and obedience of the 
 gospel, to warn of dangers, and to resist with united efforts 
 every evil which threatens to break in, and especially in 
 difficulties that may arise, on the request of our beloved 
 brethren, to give our simple advice. There have been at 
 this time laid before us the following points and queries, 
 which we have weighed with the word in the fear of the 
 Lord, and according to the grace bestowed upon us, have 
 answered the same : 
 
 Article 1. "Whether it be agreeable to the gospel, as the 
 brethren do, hold elections for teachers and deacons ? Con- 
 sidered, that our mode to hold elections is according to the 
 gospel, and that we do not know how to improve it. 
 
 Art. 2. How it is considered when poor members are 
 left to the overseers of the poor in the township for main- 
 tenance? Considered, that the church to which such a 
 member belongs ought to investigate the case, and to take 
 care of her own poor according to the gospel. 
 
 Art. 3. In case one that was a brother, and now is held 
 in avoidance, lives at a distance of several hundred miles 
 from a brother to whom he is owing, and writes back to 
 brethren he would be willing to pay if he knew how much ; 
 whether the latter would have liberty to write to the former 
 how much he owed him ? Considered, that brethren might 
 state and send such accounts, as it was always permitted to 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 87 
 
 settle old accounts with such members, that are held in 
 avoidance. 
 
 Art. 4. About the difference among the brethren in 
 regard to avoidance — since, as it seems, some know or ob- 
 serve nothing at all of an avoidance ; others take the lib- 
 erty to eat with or to greet as brethren those that are put 
 into avoidance, which with those who feel themselves in 
 duty bound, according to the word, to observe entirely the 
 avoidance, often times causes temptations and great op- 
 pression. Considered, that it is very much to be lamented 
 that such a difference hath crept in by degrees among the 
 brethren in such a highly important matter, and that it 
 ought to be the ardent desire and the serious endeavor of 
 all the brethren and members, and particularly of the elders 
 and teachers, in observing this evangelic and apostolical or- 
 dinance again to come to a perfect unanimity, whereto 
 ****** 
 
 Art. 5. How it is considered about the visiting of such 
 persons who apply for baptism ; whether they must be vis- 
 ited in all cases before baptism ? Considered, that this is a 
 good practice, and that every where if possible it ought to 
 be introduced and observed, without making any limits in 
 certain cases to make an exception ; and where this prac- 
 tice is yet unknown, it would be proper to inform the mem- 
 bers thereof, and through them those that wish to be re- 
 ceived by baptism. 
 
 Art. 6. "Whether a brother may take the liberty in a 
 civil lawsuit as defendant to answer for himself or by an 
 attorney, and in case he should consider himself wronged 
 in the first instance, whether he is justified to appeal further? 
 Considered, that a brother, if he is summoned before a 
 magistrate, may state his case, but before he would go any 
 further he ought to ask the counsel of the church, which 
 will be agreeable with the gospel. 
 
 Art. 7. About the more and more increasing evil, that 
 members conform so much to the world in building, house 
 
88 MINUTES OF 
 
 furniture, raiment, etc., and even to have a string of bells 
 upon their horses at sleighing? Considered, that all the 
 brethren and members, and especially teachers, ought to 
 oppose and labor against this growing evil, and to avoid 
 the tinkling of bells as improper tor brethren. 
 
 Art. 8. Whether we might hold meetings at the houses 
 of members that are excluded (in the first degree, accord- 
 ing to Matt, xviii.), or to visit them in the name of the 
 church on their request? Considered, that when the ex- 
 communicated members appear to be penitent, and request 
 visit and meeting of the brethren, it might be readily 
 granted. 
 
 Art. 9. Whether it could be allowed for brethren to go 
 to train (or muster) in the militia ? Considered, that train- 
 ing or mustering is a preparation for war, and since we 
 are inclined to peace and a defenseless state, it would in no 
 wise be proper nor allowable for brethren to learn war. 
 Is. ii. 4 ; Mic. iv. 3. 
 
 Art. 10. Whether a public fault could be settled and 
 forgiven between brother and brother? Considered, that 
 a publicly committed fault can only be settled before the 
 church, and not between brother aud brother, according to 
 the word of the Lord. 
 
 Art. 11. What is to be done with a brother who is 
 erecting a distillery, and makes aud sells ardent spirits? 
 Considered, that when such a brother has been admonished 
 once and again, and will not be obedient to the counsel of 
 the church, we could not break the bread of communion 
 with him. Besides, it is the advice of the old brethren, tc 
 dissuade all the members from the common use ot intoxi- 
 cating drinks, particularly at buildings, hay-making and 
 harvesting. 
 
 Art. 12. How it is considered, when teachers at the be- 
 ginning of meetings exhort so long, and consume so much 
 time with speaking before prayer ? Considered that it 
 would be more edifying to make the exhortation as brief 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 89 
 
 as possible, siuce the apostle teaches that first of all suppli- 
 cations, prayers, intercessions, etc., be made. I. Tim. n. 1-4. 
 
 Art. 13. About receiving again members that had been 
 excluded; in what manner it ought to take place? Con- 
 sidered, that it was hitherto not done the same way as the 
 reception of newly-elected teachers or deacons, where the 
 members do advance toward those elected, but that it was 
 and is the mode of the brethren, the members to remain in 
 their places, and the member to be received again to go 
 from one to the other, and thus to be received, if a brother, 
 by the brethren with hand and kiss, and by the sisters with 
 the hand ; and if a sister, by the brethren with the hand, 
 and by the sisters with hand and kiss. 
 
 In conclusion, the brethren agreed to hold our next an- 
 nual meeting on Pentecost, 1841, with our brethren in 
 Somerset County, Pennsylvania. 
 
 Signed by Daniel Gerber, David Pfoutz, Daniel Arnold, 
 Jacob Holsiuger, Christian Long, George Hoke, John 
 Price, Daniel Reichard, Abra. Yandt, Michel Dicky, Peter 
 Kober, Isaac Shoemaker, Henry Kurtz. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1841. 
 
 As it was customary among us from time immemorial, 
 the old brethren assembled themselves this year again from 
 East and West, and from North and South, in yearly meet- 
 ing with Bro. William Miller, in Somerset County, Penn- 
 sylvania, where on the 28th and 29th of May, A. D. 184.1, 
 the following points were presented and taken into serious 
 consideration : 
 
 Article 1. Whether it would be right and allowable, ac- 
 cording to the gospel, for members to buy lottery-tickets? 
 Considered, that as a species of gambling for gain's sake, 
 whereby others must necessarily lose, it is wrong, and not 
 allowable at all for a brother. 
 
90 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 2. Whether the brethren practice feet-washing 
 strictly according to the gospel ? Considered, after much 
 conversation and reflection, that feet-washing, as practiced 
 hitherto by the brethren, is according to the word, and that 
 the mode, as far as we could learn until now, could in no 
 wise be improved. 
 
 Art. 3. Whether the brethren have a right to admit 
 friends, who are not members, to sit down with us at the 
 Lord's Supper, if there is room ? Considered, that making 
 a proper distinction between the supper and the communion 
 of the body and blood of Jesus Christ, there could be no 
 objection to admit friends to the supper, when there is room. 
 Art. 4. "Whether it is proper for teachers to speak both 
 German and English in meetings, when there are only a 
 few English members, the majority of the church being 
 German? I Considered, that it is right, and our duty, to 
 preach the gospel to every nation as far as we are able, yet 
 so that in such a case not too much time ought to be taken 
 up in English. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether a brother, consistently with the gospel, 
 can take the benefit of the law for insolvent debtors? 
 Considered, that there may be cases where the involving at 
 first and the consequences thereupon are not at all compati- 
 ble with the gospel, and where the church could not hold 
 such as brethren ; and that there may be cases where a 
 brother, by misfortune, may be brought to such extremity, 
 and if he were honest in his declaration, his application for 
 the benefit of the law might even be excusable. In all such 
 cases, however, the church has to investigate the matter, 
 and judge accordingly, and if the church is at a loss, to 
 call in, as in other cases, the assistance of elders from other 
 churches. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether members may be brought before the 
 council of the church, and be judged for a crime only on 
 testimony from without— i. e., from persons that are not 
 members of the church? Considered, that when there is 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 91 
 
 some report abroad of a brother walking disorderly, or 
 having committed a crime, it is the duty of the church to 
 send some brethren to the place where the report has origin- 
 ated, to investigate the matter. If nothing be found estab- 
 lishing the charge, and the member denying the same after 
 a close examination, nothing more can be done. If there 
 should, however, some suspicion be created in the members 
 by the general conduct of the accused, the church may ad- 
 vise such a member not to approach the Lord's table until 
 the matter is cleared up to the satisfaction of the church. 
 But to disown entirely a member on testimony only from 
 without, was not considered right and just according to the 
 gospel. 
 
 Art. 7. "Whether members may be permitted to obtain 
 and sell patent-rights for their own inventions? Consid- 
 ered, that it is not advisable for members to take out and 
 sell patent-rights. 
 
 Art. 8. Whether a teacher has a right to break the bread 
 of communion to a sick person that is not a member of the 
 church? Considered, that a teacher has not any authority 
 in the gospel to do so, but that he should direct such a soul 
 to the mercy of God in Christ Jesus, and to the terms and 
 promises of the gospel. 
 
 Art. 9. Whether a deacon (visiting brother) may give 
 testimony to what a teacher has said while there is one or 
 more teachers present that have not spoken, and request 
 him to speak? Considered, that he may, if requested. 
 
 Art. 10. Whether a follower of Jesus may attend politi- 
 cal meetings? Considered, that it is not becoming at al! 
 for brethren who have renounced the world. 
 
 Art. 11. Whether i.t is becoming for a member of the 
 church of Christ to act as juror in the courts of our coun- 
 try? Considered that it would be best not to serve at all 
 even in civil, but by no means in criminal cases. 
 
 Art. 12. What is to be done with a brother or member 
 who removes into another church without bringing a cer- 
 
92 MINUTES OF 
 
 tificate of membership along, and who being asked for it 
 is offended by the request? Considered, that as it has been 
 decided often heretofore, it is requisite for members that 
 remove from one church into another to bring a testimony 
 or certificate along of their standing in the church fr®m 
 whence they came, and that they ought not to be offended 
 at being asked for the same. Should they refuse still to 
 procure a certificate, the church to which they came would 
 have a right to ascertain their standing before receiviug 
 them to full membership. 
 
 Art. 13. "Whether a brother or member could be judged 
 consistently with the gospel without having a hearing be- 
 fore the church, with privilege to defend himself? Consid- 
 ered, that no brother ought to be brought before the coun- 
 cil of the church for any accusation without having previous 
 information thereof, and without having the privilege of 
 being present at the hearing of the witnesses, and also of 
 defending himself according to gospel. 
 
 Art. 14. Concerning the use of ardent spirits, it was con- 
 sidered that it is a great evil, leading to vice and crime, to 
 destruction of peace and property, and to the ruin of body 
 and soul, and that members of the church of Christ ought 
 to refrain from the use of it, except as medicine. 
 
 Art. 15. In regard to the next yearly meeting, applica- 
 tion-having been made heretofore from Swatara Church, in 
 this state, and this year from Mohiccon Church, in Ohio, 
 and from Pipe Creek Church, in Maryland — no application 
 being made this year from Swatara, — the brethren con- 
 cluded to meet, God willing, in annual meeting next year, 
 on Pentecost, 1842, with our brethren at Pipe Creek, iu 
 Maryland, in accommodation of the eastern churches, with 
 the intention of meeting the year following, if the applica- 
 tion is repeated, with our brethren in Ohio. 
 
 Signed by Daniel Gerber, David Pfoutz, Christian Long, 
 Daniel Arnold, George Hoke, Abraham Yandt, John Hart, 
 John Price, Daniel Reichard, Henry Kurtz. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 93 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1842. 
 
 At the yearly meeting of the ancient brethren, commonly 
 called German Baptists, held at the Beaver Dam meeting- 
 house, in Frederick County, Maryland, 13th to 15th of 
 May, A. D. 1842, the following queries were presented, and 
 considered and answered in the fear of the Lord: 
 
 Article 1. Whether the sense of the words of our Sav- 
 ior (Matt, xviii.), "Let him be unto thee as a heathen man 
 and a publican," is the same with the expression of Paul 
 the apostle, when he says, " Have no company with him." 
 I. Cor. v. This same query had been before the yearly 
 meeting in Virginia in the year 1837, and a similar one 
 before the annual meeting in Morrison's Cove in the year 
 1840, and even in the year 1794 (almost fifty years ago) the 
 brethren expressed their sense on the subject, which was 
 read, and the brethren now assembled generally agreed to 
 the then expressed views, desiring with our departed breth- 
 ren that our dearly beloved brethren would seek to hold 
 fast to the written word of truth, for we fear with them 
 that whosoever will depart from it is in great danger to be 
 deceived in these much confused times. Now he that at- 
 tends strictly to the word will see plainly that in Matt, xviii. 
 quite another case is mentioned than in I. Cor. v. There 
 the Savior speaks of sins and offenses which a brother or 
 sister may commit against a fellow-member. Here the 
 apostle treats of vices and crimes which may be committed 
 against God and the truth. And as there is a difference 
 in the sins, even so is also a difference in the discipline. 
 Already, under the law, there were some sins unto death, 
 where the sinner had to die without mercy under two or 
 three witnesses. Heb. x. 28. But some sins were not unto 
 death, and could be atoned for by offerings and sacrifices. 
 Even so there is a difference in the discipline under the 
 gospel, as we may plainly see from those passages before 
 alluded to, viz., Matt. vm. and I. Cor. v., if we examine 
 
94 MINUTES OF 
 
 them more closely. Therefore the brethren have always 
 considered, and we yet consider, that the divine sense re- 
 quires to disown a member who will not be told unto when 
 it has been overtaken in a fault, which might have been 
 atoned for by an acknowledgment, for his refusing to ac- 
 knowledge, only so far as from the church-council, from 
 the breaking of bread, and from the kiss. But a member 
 that has fallen into gross sins and vices should be dealt 
 with according to the word of God, as expressed by the 
 Apostle Paul, viz., "Not to keep company with such a one, 
 no, not to eat." 
 
 Art. 2. Whether it will be to the edification of the church 
 of God to hold protracted meetings, and to introduce 
 mourning-benches, in imitation to the new measures adopted 
 by different sects and denominations ? The brethren gen- 
 erally considered, that it was advisable to be very cautious, 
 and at all times to keep good order in accordance with the 
 doctrine and example of the apostles, and not to introduce 
 such innovations like mourning-benches, etc. 
 
 Art. 3. Whether our love-feasts could not be held more 
 privately and oftener ? The advice was to select such times 
 and places as experience may teach to be most suitable for 
 this purpose. 
 
 Art. 4. How it is considered if a brother or sister signs 
 the pledge of total abstinence ? Considered, that inasmuch 
 as our churches have always been testifying against intem- 
 perance, and even against the free use, the making and 
 selling of ardent spirits, it is not advisable for members to 
 put their hands to the pledge, or to meddle with the pro- 
 ceeding and excitement of the world on this subject. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether the queries to be submitted to the 
 yearly meeting should not be laid first before the individual 
 church, and be sent with their consent ? Considered, that 
 queries in relation to a particular church ought to be 
 brought in with the counsel of that church, but a brother 
 should not be prevented thereby to present any question 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 95 
 
 that may occur unto him as important and necessary to be 
 considered. 
 
 \rt. 6. Whether it be proper for a brother who is elected 
 to speak the word, to serve at arbitrations or on juries, etc.? 
 Considered, as it has been often heretofore, that brethren 
 would do best at all times, if it be avoidable, not to serve, 
 except there is reason to hope that peace may be promoted 
 thereby. 
 
 Art. 7. Whether it be right for a brother to deliver a 
 lecture on temperance, if requested? Considered, as our 
 commission is to preach the gospel, that we should do so, 
 and inculcate temperance as well as other virtues ; but to 
 hold lectures on the subject of temperance exclusively was 
 considered not to be advisable for a brother. 
 
 Art. 8. Whether a person who was married, and whose 
 partner broke the marriage vow by fornication, may marry 
 again according to the gospel, after obtaining a bill of 
 divorce? Considered, that according to the word of God, 
 Matt, v. 31, 32, xix. 3-10, Mark x. 2-12, Luke xvi. 18, and 
 I. Cor. vn. 10, 11, 39, a person can not marry again while 
 the first companion lives, and that the gospel considers not 
 only the person that would marry again after being divorced, 
 but also the person who would marry the divorced party, 
 as adulterers. 
 
 Art. 9. How it is considered, when brethren who are 
 not ordained, in the presence of ordained brethren, with- 
 out being requested, take the lead at public meetings, and 
 at morning and evening worship ; seat themselves at the 
 head of the table, and call upon ordained brethren to be 
 free? Considered, that order is an essential rule of the 
 house of God, and that it would be most praiseworthy if 
 all the brethren did try in honor to prefer one another, 
 and each one to be faithful in his station, not seeking the 
 uppermost seats, nor forgetting the advice of the apostle 
 (I. Pet. v. 5), "Ye younger, submit yourselves unto the 
 elder." 
 
96 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 10. How it is considered, wnen a man who holds 
 the office of justice of the peace, is received by baptism as 
 a member in the church, and is permitted to continue in 
 his office until the time should expire for which he was 
 elected; and how it is considered when a brother, or even 
 a deacon, is elected to the same office of justice of the 
 peace, and enters upon the duties of the same? Consid- 
 ered, that in case a man who holds such an office is con- 
 vinced of the truth, and becomes willing to obey, the gos- 
 pel, it appears to us there would be no great difficulty to 
 convince him also that he can not serve two masters, nor 
 be at the same time a follower of the Lamb and a servant 
 of the world ; and as to a brother, or even a deacon, in the 
 church to serve in such an office, it was considered quite 
 inconsistent with the gospel we profess, and that it ought 
 not to be. 
 
 Art. 11. Whether it be allowable forbrethren to collect 
 debts by force of law, and what is to be done with a brother 
 who uses the power of the law, and justifies himself in the 
 same? Considered, as always was done by the brethren, 
 that we have no right according to the gospel to use the rigor 
 of the law in collecting debts, and that a brother who has 
 done so falls into the judgment of the church. 
 
 Art. 12. Whether a church has the right to make reso- 
 lutions, framed by men, binding on its members ? Consid- 
 ered by the elders, and answered thus : If the resolutions 
 are founded upon and in accordance with the gospel to 
 which we are all bound, they are binding ; but if they are 
 not according and even contrary to the gospel, we can not 
 be bound to observe them, and no church can make them 
 binding. 
 
 Art. 13. As to the next yearly meeting, invitations had 
 been sent from Mohiccon, Ohio from Couestoga and Cono- 
 wago, Pennsylvania, and from Botetourt, in Virginia; the 
 Swatara Church having withdrawn their request, stating 
 that circumstances did not permit them at present to re- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 97 
 
 peat their invitation. It was finally concluded that the 
 brethren will meet in yearly meeting next year on Thurs- 
 day before Pentecost, 1843, God willing, at Mohiccon 
 church, west of Wooster, Ohio. 
 
 Signed by the following brethren — Daniel Gerber, Chris- 
 tian Long, John Beeghly, John Price, Dan. Bollinger, 
 David Pfoutz, Jacob Pfoutz, Christ. Jansen, David Ecker, 
 John Sprogle, George Hoke, Jacob Long, And. Spanogle, 
 John Gerber, James Tracey, Henry Kurtz. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1843. 
 
 At the yearly meeting of the ancient brethren, common- 
 ly called " German Baptists," held on Friday and Saturday 
 before Pentecost (June 2d and 3d), A. D. 1843, in Mohiccon 
 Church, at Bro. John Shoemaker's, west of "Wooster, "Wayne 
 County, Ohio, the following queries were presented,*and 
 publicly discussed and answered in the fear of the Lord: 
 
 Article 1. Is it agreeable with the word of God for a 
 deacon (visiting brother) to stand up in public meeting and 
 exhort, when sufficient time has been spent already? Con- 
 sidered, that according to the word of God " all things- 
 should be done decently and in order;" and as teaching is 
 the proper office of the teachers, and not of the deacons, 
 they ought not to go any further than their calling requires 
 of them, where it is not necessary, and it would not be ad- 
 visable for a teacher to urge them (the deacons) any further 
 than duty calls them. 
 
 Art. 2. "Whether a brother may refuse the kiss to a 
 brother who hath committed a fault — for instance, getting 
 intoxicated — ere he has been brought and judged before 
 the council of the church? Considered, that though a 
 member could not be required to salute a brother with the 
 
 r 
 
98 MINUTES OF 
 
 kiss while in a state of intoxication, it is still our duty, 
 first to tell the fault unto the church, and to await its decis- 
 ion, before we withdraw ourselves from a member. 
 
 Art. 3. Whether a teacher has a right, in his exhorta- 
 tion to prayer, to give liberty to those who do not choose 
 to bow down with us, to rise up in prayer? Considered, 
 that we are to exhort our hearers to humility in prayer, 
 and as it is generally the case, to bow down on our knees; 
 but where there is no room, or where the ground does not 
 permit kneeling, the brethren could see no wrong in per- 
 mitting in such or another case of necessity to rise up on 
 our feet in prayer. 
 
 Art. 4. Whether members may take the liberty to go to 
 prayer-meetings, etc., of other persuasions, to take part in 
 them, and to permit and invite ministers of other persua- 
 sions to hold meetings in their (the members) own houses ? 
 Considered, that as we have come into very perilous times, 
 according to the word of our Savior (Matt, xxrv, 22-26), 
 and of his apostles (I. Tim. i\\, and II. Peter n., etc.,) and 
 we therefore have the greatest reason to be seriously on our 
 guard; that prayer is an important part of worship, which 
 must be performed in spirit and in truth in order to be 
 pleasing in the sight of God; that consequently true in- 
 ward union in prayer with such that are not in one spirit 
 and in the same truth with us can not be thought of; that 
 under these considerations it would be the safest course not 
 to go to such places, nor to take part in such exercises, 
 much less to invite or to receive teachers of whom we may 
 know beforehand that they will not bring the whole apos- 
 tolic doctrine in order to hold meetings in our houses. II. 
 John x. 
 
 Art. 5. When a brother is put into avoidance, according 
 to the words of Paul (I. Cor. v.), and his wife and children, 
 being members in the church, have company with him, as 
 it happens in a family, how the church hath to treat them, 
 or whether there is a difference between the wife and the 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 99 
 
 children, who are yet under the lawful age; and how we 
 are to do when there is a difference of opinion about the 
 withdrawing of the hand from those that are in avoidance? 
 Considered, though we are always truly sorry when such a 
 case occurs, where we must put a member into avoidance, 
 and feel sincere compassion for those that suffer immediate- 
 ly under it, yet we can not set aside this apostolic ordinance, 
 and do really believe that the more strictly it is observed 
 by all the members, and especially by the nearest relations, 
 the more powerful it would operate to the salvation of the 
 fallen member; but in case a wife could not withdraw from 
 fellowship with the husband to be avoided, it was always 
 considered that such a member could not break the bread 
 of communion while so doing, and we do conceive that 
 children are in the same predicament, either to withdraw 
 fellowship with the parent in avoidance or not to break 
 bread ; and in regard to withdrawing the hand, it was con- 
 sidered that when the church concludes to withdraw even 
 the hand, the members should all unite in observing the 
 same. 
 
 Art. 6. "Whether the ordination of a brother can be frus- 
 trated, when the whole church is united on the subject, 
 with the exception of one or a few members? Considered, 
 that in case the ordination of a brother is judged as neces- 
 sary and proper by the church and the ordained brethren 
 from a distance, and there could be no weighty objection 
 made by those that are of another opinion in this matter, 
 they ought to acquiesce in it, and the ordination might go 
 on according to the desire of the church. 
 
 Art. 7. "When a large church, by common consent, has 
 been divided into several districts, and in one of these dis- 
 tricts it is found necessary to hold an election for teachers 
 and deacons, whether the members of such district alone 
 are entitled to vote, or whether the members of the other 
 districts have a right to vote also ? Considered, that when 
 such a division takes place by common consent, for the 
 
100 MINUTES OF 
 
 greater convenience of members and of meetings, we un- 
 derstand it that henceforth these several districts are to 
 form so many particular churches, though they maybe un- 
 der the superintendence of but one bishop, and that conse- 
 quently when one of these districts, or one of these partic- 
 ular churches stands in need of laborers, and has to hold 
 an election, it would be as improper for the members of 
 the other districts to vote at such election as it would be 
 for members from other churches that never formed a part 
 of the old and large district. In case there were no express 
 word for such things, we think we may safely follow the 
 ApotlePaul, when he says (I. Cor. xi. 14), "Doth not na- 
 ture itself teach you" what is proper? 
 
 Art. 8. How it might be considered when, at an election 
 for teachers and deacons, absent members do send their 
 votes with other members? Considered, that since the 
 promise of our Savior is given, ""Where two or three are 
 gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of 
 them (Matt. xvin. 20), in such important church affairs this 
 promise belongs only to those that are assembled, and not 
 to those that are absent; the brethren generally have acted 
 upon that ground, and not taken any vote from absent 
 members. 
 
 Art. 9. How it is considered, when in an important case 
 a visit in the church is performed, and the case laid before 
 the members, and some of them would give their opinion 
 or judgment to the visiting brethren, but did not come 
 themselves to the council-meeting, whether in that case the 
 report of the visiting brethren may be considered as if the 
 members themselves were present? Considered, in case of 
 a judgment on a matter that has not yet been investigated 
 by the church, in the same light as the question before. 
 But in case of a testimony, where the member could not 
 come personally, we would have to receive it through the 
 visiting brethren as if the member himself were present. 
 
 Art. 10. Whether a complaint against a member maybe 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 101 
 
 taken up in the church, that is of several years' standing? 
 Considered, that this depends in a great measure upon cir- 
 cumstances. In complaints of a private nature, between 
 brother and brother, the course which our Savior prescribes 
 (Matt, xvin.) ought to be pursued ; and when we have taken 
 the two first steps toward a reconciliation, without being 
 satisfied, then "tell it unto the church," is the Savior's com- 
 mand ; and when the yearly visit has gone round, and the 
 bread of communion hath been broken, aud we neglected 
 to obey this command, the church is not bound afterward 
 to take up our complaint. But in case a fault had been 
 committed by a member, and was not known to the com- 
 plaining member until after a length of time, it is still his 
 duty to tell it unto the church, and the complaint is to be 
 taken up by the church. 
 
 Art. 11. WJiether a teacher, that is not ordained, can ex- 
 communicate a deacon or visiting brother on but one broth- 
 er's testimony, and with only twelve members in council? 
 The view of the brethren assembled is, that in considera- 
 tion of the words of the apostle (I. Tim. v. 19) : "Against 
 an elder (which word is taken in the Xew Testament some- 
 times in a more limited, and at other times in a more gen- 
 eral sense, and may include all those to whom is intrusted 
 an office in the church,) receive not an accusation, but be- 
 fore two or three witnesses." In consideration again, that 
 as a brother that is not ordained, ought not to hold an elec- 
 tion and install teachers or deacons, so none ought to be 
 excommunicated without ordained brethren being present; 
 and in consideration lastly, that in such a case all the mem- 
 bers of the church, or as many as possible, ought to be 
 present, we could not approve of such a proceeding. 
 
 Art. 12. How it is considered when one teacher com- 
 monly consumes as much time as two, three, and four hours, 
 in one meeting, speaking continually? The unanimous 
 opinion of the brethren was, that inasmuch as God is a God 
 of order, and such long-continued discourses must needs 
 
102 MINUTES OF 
 
 be fatiguing, both to the teacher and the hearers, cause dis- 
 order, and deprive other teachers of the opportunity to 
 speak, to the edification of the church, this conduct is out 
 of all order, and ought not to be, and it would always be 
 best not to prolong our meetings beyond the usual time. 
 
 Art. 13. As to the next Yearly Meeting, there was but 
 one invitation, viz., from our brethren on Big Conowago, 
 Pennsylvania (the brethren from Bodetourt, in Virginia, 
 making application for the year 1845), and it was finally 
 concluded that the brethren will meet in Yearly Meeting, 
 next year, on Thursday before Pentecost, 1844, God willing, 
 with the church on Big Conowago, York County, Penn- 
 sylvania. 
 
 Signed by the following brethren : George Hoke, John 
 Brower, John Hart, George Shively, Henry Metzger, Joseph 
 Showalter, Isaac Beery, John Cable, Daniel Miller, John 
 Shoemaker, James Tracey, Henry Kurtz. 
 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1844. 
 
 At the Yearly Meeting of the brethren, sometimes called 
 German Baptists, held at the house of Bro. Peter Deardorff, 
 on Big Conowago, in York County, Pennsylvania, on Fri- 
 day and Saturday before Pentecost, May 24th and 25th, A. 
 D. 1844, three brethren from Ohio, four from Pennsylvania, 
 three from Virginia, and two from Maryland, were chosen 
 as a committee, and the following points and queries were 
 laid before, and considered by them, in the fear of the Lord, 
 in public council-meeting: 
 
 Article 1. About the laying on of hands on deacons. 
 This query had been before the Annual Meetings of 1838 
 and 1839, and the brethren generally considered, that since 
 there is no direct command to do so in the New Testament, 
 and on the contrary the apostle gives advice (I. Tim. v. 12), 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 103 
 
 "Lay hands suddenly on no man," it would be best to pro- 
 ceed in this matter as the brethren of old have done. This 
 is, however, laid down with this proviso, that if any brother 
 could throw more light on the subject, it might be presented 
 again to the next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether there must be something of the supper 
 on the table when feet-washing is observed? This query 
 has been likewise presented several times before this, and 
 the brethren do still consider that they could not see a bet- 
 ter way " to have all things done decently and in order," 
 than the one hitherto followed. I. Cor. xrv.'40. 
 
 Art. 3. Whether a brother may go to the legislative 
 assembly, as a representative of the people, agreeably with 
 the gospel? Considered, that though we look upon the 
 higher powers of this world as being of God, for the pro- 
 tection of the pious, etc., and desire to be thankful to God 
 for the benefits we enjoy under our government, and feel it 
 our duty to pray fervently and daily for the same, we can 
 not see how a follower of the meek and lowly Savior can 
 seek and accept an office of this kind consistently with the 
 gospel he professeth. (See Matt. xx. 25-28 ; Mark x. 42-46 ; 
 Luke xxn. 25; John xvn. 16, etc.) 
 
 Art. 4. In regard to the difference in the form of words, 
 which the brethren use in baptism, it was, after a free dis- 
 cussion, considered, since in the practice of a threefold im- 
 mersion of the kneeling candidate, and in the use of the 
 words of our Savior (Matt. xxvm. 19), "In the name of the 
 Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost," we are all 
 perfectly agreed, to lay the matter down as heretofore, and 
 to bear with one another in love, yet so that the teachers in 
 one and the same church, or district, ought to use the same 
 form. (See I. Cor. i. 10). 
 
 Art. 5. About singing in dirierent voices, at public meet- 
 ings, it was considered that the singing of psalms, hymns, 
 and spiritual songs, is a part of divine worship, which we 
 ought to perform always in the spirit, and in truth, and 
 
104 MINUTES OF 
 
 with solemnitv: to be watchful, that nothing in our sing- 
 ing should detract our mind's from the serious contempla- 
 tion of what we sing; that we ought to avoid such light 
 tunes which may make us merry rather than serious ; and 
 that our singing should always tend more to the glory of 
 God, than to the tickling of the outward ear. I. Cor. xiv. 
 15; Ephes. v. 19; Col. in. 16. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether it be allowable for brethren to collect 
 debts by force of law, it was again considered that no 
 brother has any right, in the gospel, to sue at law. Luke 
 in. 14; Matt. v. 38, etc., vi. 12, etc. 
 
 Art. 7. How is considered the difference in doctrine, that 
 some teach faith before repentance, and others repentance 
 before faith ? This query had been before a council meet- 
 ing, some years ago, and was answered thus : " Considered, 
 that the difference arises when the word is not rightly 
 divided. The apostle teacheth us that the righteousness of 
 God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith. Rom. i. 
 17. And again, that he who cometh to God must believe 
 that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligent- 
 ly seek him. Heb. xi. 6. Out of this faith, when it is 
 quickened, repentance will come; and when the repentant 
 sinner hears and receives the blessed gospel, an evangelical 
 and saving faith will issue therefrom, which worketh by 
 love, and maketh itself known by keeping the command- 
 ments." To which the present brethren fully assented. 
 
 Art. 8. In case where man and wife are both members, 
 and it so happens that the church would have occasion to 
 hold one or the other in avoidance, and after being held 
 thus, say two or more years, without manifesting any fruits 
 of sincere repentance, which would be the most prudent 
 course to take in behalf of the companion of such thus held 
 in avoidance? Considered, that though we sincerely pity 
 the innocent party, if there has no change taken place in 
 the state of the fallen member, there can be no chauge in 
 the course of the church toward such a member. But of 
 
A-SNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 105 
 
 this, each church must judge according to existing circum- 
 stances. (See II. Cor. n. 5). 
 
 Art. 9. What to do in case a member, on a sick or death- 
 bed, requests to have the bread of communion broken unto? 
 Considered, that the word of God does not seem to us to 
 justify the breaking of the bread of communion to an indi- 
 vidual member (for where there is but one, there can be no 
 communion), and that therefore we would be more safe to 
 direct such a member to the grace and mercy of God in 
 Christ Jesus, and to the advice of the apostle (James v. 14), 
 where he says: "Is any sick among you, let him call for 
 the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, 
 anointing him with oil, in the name of the Lord," etc. If 
 they still insist upon partaking of the bread and wine, in 
 remembrance of their dying Savior, they might be gratified, 
 as it has been done heretofore, if there should be a love- 
 feast in the neighborhood, by sending to them of the blessed 
 bread and wine, or by holding a small love-feast at the right 
 time and in the proper order at their houses. 
 
 Art. 10. How a brother is to proceed when application 
 is made for baptism, in a place where there are no brethren 
 to counsel with ? Considered, that if a brother is author- 
 ized to baptize, and has taught them according to the gos- 
 pel, and feels himself satisfied, he may proceed; but a 
 brother who is not authorized to baptize, ought to inform 
 other brethren, who have the authority to administer bap- 
 tism. The Savior always sent his disciples by two and two. 
 Mark vi. 7; Luke x. 1, etc. 
 
 Art. 11. Whether our brethren have the liberty, in cases 
 of funerals, to let preachers of other denominations preach 
 in their houses ? Considering circumstances, such as a 
 burying-grouud being on the farm of a brother, the weather 
 being inclement, etc., such liberty could not be denied to 
 brethren. 
 
 Art. 12. How it is considered, if a member makes an 
 open transgression, and refuses to come to the church to 
 
106 MINUTES OF 
 
 acknowledge it, though he declares his willingness to make 
 acknowledgments before some brethren? It was consid- 
 ered that such private confession could not be counted suf- 
 ficient, since the word says (I. Tim. v. 20) : " Them that sin 
 rebuke before all, that others also may fear." 
 
 .Regarding the next Yearly Meeting, invitations were sent 
 from Bodetourt and Roanoke, in Virginia, from Conestoga, 
 in Lancaster County, and from Andidum Church, in Frank- 
 lin County, Pennsylvania; and the brethren concluded that 
 it should take place, God willing, on Friday before Pente- 
 cost, 1345, in Bodetourt or Roanoke, in Virginia. 
 
 Signed by the committee — David Pfoutz, Christian Long, 
 John Price, And. Spanogle, of Pennsylvania; Geo. Hoke, 
 Geo. Shively, Henry Kurtz, of Ohio; John Bowman, Benj. 
 Bowman, Daniel Miller, of Virginia; John Gerber, Jacob 
 Long, of Maryland; and the following other brethren: 
 Peter Nead, John Mineely, Peter Long, John H. Umstad, 
 Jacob Pfoutz, Jacob Brubacher. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1845. 
 
 At the Yearly Meeting of the brethren, held at the house 
 of Bro. Daniel Barnhart, in Roanoke County, Virginia, on 
 Friday and Saturday before Pentecost, May 9th and 10th, A. 
 D. 1845, all the ordained brethren present were appointed 
 as a committee to receive the messages from the different 
 churches, and to bring in the points and queries which 
 were to be laid before the Yearly Meeting, for discussion, in 
 the fear of God. They were as follows : 
 
 Article 1. In regard to the difference in the form of 
 words which the brethren use in baptism, it was considered 
 by the committee, to let this matter rest as it was laid 
 down last year (see Art. 4), more especially since the breth- 
 ren and churches are not so generally represented as it 
 it would be desirable in such an important matter. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 107 
 
 Art. 2. In regard to receiving colored members into the 
 church, it was considered, to leave it to the counsel of every 
 individual church, as it is done in all cases; but if colored 
 persons are once received as members into the church, the 
 members should be at liberty to salute them in like man- 
 ner as white members, at the same time having patience 
 with those who may be weak in the faith, and can not do 
 so. The assembled elders, however, consider it as the more 
 perfect way, to which we all should strive to come, viz., 
 that love, which makes no distinction in the brotherhood, 
 in this respect. (See James n. 1-10.) 
 
 Art. 3. In regard to hiring slaves, it was considered but 
 little better than purchasing and holding slaves, and that it 
 would be best for a follower of Jesus Christ to have noth- 
 ing at all to do with slavery. 
 
 Art. 4. In regard to usury and increase, it was consid- 
 ered, that as it was against the law of Moses, and could 
 not be otherwise than against the gospel of Christ, which 
 commands us "to lend where we hope for nothing again," 
 we should be very careful not to ask or take more than 
 lawful interest, and keep an open hand for the poor, to 
 lend them even without interest. 
 
 Art. 5. In regard to our being altogether defenseless, 
 not to withstand the evil, but overcome evil with good, the 
 brethren considered, that the nearer we follow the bright 
 example of the Lamb of God, who willingly suffered the 
 cross, and prayed for his enemies ; who, though heir of all 
 things, had on earth not where to lay his head — the more 
 we shall fulfill our high calling and obtain grace to deny 
 ourselves for Christ's and his gospel's sake, even to the 
 loss of our property, our liberty, and our lives. 
 
 Art. 6. In regard to members conforming too much 
 with the world in fashionable dressing, building and orna- 
 menting houses in the style of those high in the world, it 
 was considered that it is a dangerous and alarming evil/ 
 
108 MINUTES OF 
 
 and ought not to be among the humble followers of the 
 lowly Jesus. 
 
 Art. 7. How it is considered, if brethren will force 
 themselves into the ministry, without consent from the 
 elders, and some of the members encourage them in it ? Con- 
 sidered, that inasmuch as it appears by the words of James, 
 chapter in. 1, by the words of our Savior (John x. 1), and 
 of Paul (Heb. v. 4-7), there is a right way and also a wrong 
 way to enter into the ministry — the wrong way being' 
 when one is taking this honor unto himself, and the right 
 way, when one is called of God, by the church, which is 
 the body of Christ, and the order of which calling to the 
 ministry is found described in the Acts of the Apostles. 
 Brethren ought to be very cautious when they feel a desire 
 to preach the gospel, that they do not take the wrong way ; 
 rather humble than elevate themselves, and be fully assured 
 that if the Lord wants their services, he has all power in 
 heaven and on earth to bring about their calling to it in 
 the right order and in due time; but if such brethren 
 would still go out of the way, appoint and hold meetings, 
 against the counsel of the church, the church would have 
 to hold them as disobedient members, according to Matt, 
 xvn., and members generally ought to be very careful not 
 to encourage and support such brethren in their disorderly 
 proceedings. 
 
 Art. 8. How it is considered, if brethren will rebel 
 against the counsel held at council-meetings, and say, it is 
 an abomination to God? Considered, that such a brother 
 should be visited and exhorted, and if he would not hear 
 and obey the admonition, he could not be held as a brother. 
 
 Art. 9. How it is considered, if brethren are accused by 
 the mouth of two or three witnesses, of honest moral char- 
 acter, but not being members, and their testimony against 
 those members agrees, that they were guilty of drunken- 
 •ness, or any other crime, aud the church has cause to be- 
 lieve such testimony, from other circumstances, but the 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 10!) 
 
 brethren so accused, deny the charge ? Considered, as in 
 the year 1841, Art. 6, that such members might be advised 
 not to approach the Lord's table until the matter is cleared 
 up to the satisfaction of the church ; but to judge a brother 
 on testimony from without alone, and without his own 
 confession, would not be just, according to the gospel. 
 
 Art. 10. How it is considered, when a brother is carrying 
 on a distillery? Considered in the same light as our an- 
 cient brethren did sixty-two years ago, in an annual coun- 
 cil-meeting held on Pipe Creek, in Maryland, June 7, 1783, 
 where they said : " Of this old and offensive evil which has 
 been breaking into the church, and by which already much 
 harm has been done, the counsel of the brethren having 
 often been given that distilleries ought to be done away by 
 members in the church, that they concluded at this time 
 unanimously to exhort those brethren that have distilleries, 
 that they should put them away ; and when they have 
 been exhorted once and again in sincere love, and they 
 would still not obey the counsel of the church, and put 
 away this disgustful image, the brethren could not break 
 the bread of communion with them, and should also with- 
 draw from them the kiss and church counsel, and that so 
 long until they become willing again to be told, as they 
 have promised in the beginning, at their baptism before 
 God and many witnesses." 
 
 Art. 11. The question about the laying on of hands on 
 deacons having been brought again before the Yearly 
 Meeting, and being of such consequence and importance, 
 it was considered, that since our churches are not generally 
 represented — not one brother from Pennsylvania and Mary- 
 land, and also not many of our elder brethren, whose 
 counsel had been given last year on this article, being pres- 
 ent at this time — it would be best to refer this question to 
 the next Annual Meeting, recommending the same to the 
 consideration of all the churches. i 
 
 Art. 12. About practicing feet-washing more according 
 
110 MINUTES OF 
 
 to the example of Christ, it was considered, as in 1841, 
 that our practice hitherto was according to the Word, and 
 that we could not improve it. 
 
 Art. 13. About the order of Annual Meetings, it was 
 concluded to refer the consideration of this query to the 
 next Yearly Meeting, for the same reasons as in Art. 11, 
 and with the same recommendation to the consideration of 
 alL the churches. 
 
 Art. 14. Whether a brother has a right to withdraw the 
 kiss from a brother without the decision of the church ? 
 Considered, that inasmuch as our Savior directs us in a 
 case ot offense to use all means to gain our brother (see 
 Matt, xviii.), the gospel allows no brother to withdraw the 
 kiss until the church has so decided. 
 
 Art. 15. How is it viewed, when there are persons and 
 members in a meeting, some not understanding the En- 
 glish, and others not the German (language), and there are 
 some members still opposing the use of both languages ? 
 Considered, that the commission of our Savior (Matt. 
 xviii. 19) commands us, and the love of Christ constrains 
 us (II. Cor. v. 14), to preach the gospel to all nations, and 
 in every tongue, as far as we are able. (See also Yearly 
 Meeting 1841, Art. 4.) 
 
 [At the special Yearly Meeting in Indiana, 1845, ques- 
 tion 6 was, "Whether in a council-meeting of the church 
 the gospel will allow such as are not members to be ad- 
 mitted?" and the answer was : Considered, that inasmuch 
 as our Savior directs us (Matt, xviii.) the course we are to 
 take with an offending brother, to tell it in the last step 
 unto the church, it seemed to be obvious by (or in) the gos- 
 pel, that those who do not belong to the church ought not 
 to be in council.] 
 
 Art. 16. As to the place and time of our next Yearly 
 Meeting, besides the former invitations from our brethren 
 on Conestoga, Lancaster County, and on Andidum, Frank- 
 lin County, Pennsylvania, there were also invitations from 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. Ill 
 
 East Tennessee and from Indiana, and it was concluded 
 that a general council-meeting should be held, God willing, 
 this fall, in Elkhart County, Indiana, on the 26th. and 27th 
 of September, 1845, and the next Annual Meeting should 
 take place, if it please the Lord, in the Conestoga church, 
 Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, on Friday and Saturday 
 before Pentecost, in the next coming year of the Lord, 1846. 
 Signed by George Shively, Abraham Crumpacker, Pe- 
 ter Frantz, John Bowman, Benjamin Bowman, Daniel 
 Barnhart, Peter Miller, Peter Nead, Christian Bowman, 
 Samuel Garber, Austin Hylton, John Gerber, John Kline, 
 Henry Kurtz. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1846. 
 
 On the 29th of May, A. D. 1846, the brethren convened 
 in Annual Meeting at the house of Bro. Jobn Eoyer, on 
 Trout Creek, -in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and the 
 meeting being opened with singing, exhortation, and 
 prayer, it was concluded that all the ordained elders pres- 
 ent should retire, as a committee to receive all those mat- 
 ters which were to be laid before the Yearly Meeting, and 
 these were as follows : 
 
 Abticle 1. As regards the way and manner of holding 
 Annual Meetings, so as to enjoy more order, convenience, 
 and satisfaction, it was considered, in the fear of the Lord, 
 that the counsel of the Yearly Meeting in the year 1837, 
 in this respect, was proper and expedient, if observed, and 
 that the best plan will not mend the matter if it is not car- 
 ried out. Different plans were proposed, and, after a long 
 discussion and mature reflection, it was resolved to make 
 no material change but this : That our western brethren 
 shall have the privilege of taking the Yearly Meeting every 
 other year, if they request it, and that our eastern brethren 
 
112 MINUTES OF 
 
 should not fail to attend the same ; that it should be ex- 
 plicitly understood and given out, that Friday and Satur- 
 day there will only be private council-meeting — all the 
 ordained elders to form the committee to take in and bring 
 before the meeting those matters to be considered. The 
 public meeting should be on Sunday, and, if possible, not 
 in the same place where the council-meeting is held. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether any individual member has a right to 
 bring queries before the Yearly Meeting ere they have 
 passed the council of the church ? Considered, that it is 
 proper to bring all queries with the counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 3. About the laying on of hands on deacons. On 
 this much and long-agitated question, it was finally laid 
 down as the safest way to continue as heretofore. The 
 objection — that it was an apostolical order, which ought to 
 be observed — was answered, that (supposing the apostles 
 had laid their hands on the heads of the deacons, which in 
 our apprehension can not be made evident), as little as a 
 single walk of a few men through a wilderness will make 
 a road or beaten track, just as little a thing once done 
 makes it an order, and that if the example of the chosen 
 seven (Acts vn.) having had hands laid on them, would 
 have to be observed, as somejof our beloved brethren un- 
 derstand it, then we would also have to imitate the example 
 of the same church, which had all things commou, and 
 sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all 
 men, as every man had need. Acts II. 44, 45. But since 
 we do not hud in any other church established by the 
 apostles any thing similar, and since there is also no testi- 
 mony that the apostles ever after practiced the laying 
 on of hands on the heads of the deacons, our beloved 
 brethren will not think hard of us, if under these and 
 other considerations, we abide by that practice with which 
 so man} 7 faithful brethren in our churches have been intro- 
 duced to the office of deacons and speakers of the Word. 
 
 Art. 4. Is there, in the churches of the brethren, any 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN: 113 
 
 material difference among the bishops, so that one has 
 more power than another? Considered, that according to 
 the word ot our Savior (Matt. xxm. 8), " One is your mas- 
 ter, even Christ : and all ye are brethren," there is no dif- 
 ference in the brotherhood or among bishops but that which 
 a higher age and more wisdom and experience may give. 
 See I. Pet. v. 5 : " Ye younger, submit yourselves unto the 
 elder." 
 
 Art. 5. If a member sinneth or is disobedient, so that 
 he is separated from the church, whether he should be 
 publicly excommunicated, as well as he has been publicly 
 received into the church ? Considered, that as we do not 
 receive members into the church without the private coun- 
 sel of the church, so it would be inconsistent with the gos- 
 pel to exclude them in any other way than by the private 
 counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether one that is called a brother, and has 
 committed any gross crime, such as drunkenness, blas- 
 phemy, fornication, etc., can continue to be a member in 
 the body of Christ, if he confesses his fault and promises 
 to do better; whether the church may forgive him, or 
 whether he ought not to be expelled, until he shows forth 
 fruits meet for repentance ? Considered, that though we 
 can conceive of extraordinary cases of such total contrition 
 of heart, similar to that kind of leprosy (see Levit. xin. 
 12-17) which broke out abroad in the skin, and the leprosy 
 cover all the skin of him that hath the plague, from his 
 head even to his foot, and where the priest was to consider 
 him clean ; and so the church, likewise, may unanimously 
 feel satisfied with such signs of genuine repentance, and 
 may be willing to forgive at once on his full confession, 
 yet in most cases it is the safest way, in the first place to 
 obey the instruction of the Apostle Paul (I. Cor. v.), and to 
 excommunicate such a member with the power of our Lord 
 Jesus Christ, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the 
 Lord Jesus. 
 
114 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 7. Whether a brother may work in distilleries for 
 wages, and whether a brother who owns a mill may buy, 
 sell, and chop grain for distilleries? Considered, that as 
 the use of ardent spirits is always dangerous to the well- 
 being of society, and the brethren frequently have testified 
 against the making and using of the same, it would be best 
 for brethren not to have any thiug to do with it in any 
 shape or form. 
 
 Art. 8. About brethren making a will, and treating 
 their children very unequally without a cause. Considered, 
 that though we would not by any means infringe upon the 
 right of a parent to make a free disposition of his worldly 
 goods in his last will, it would be advisable for a Christian 
 father not to make a great difference among his children 
 without a good cause, and that it would be best to treat 
 children as much alike as possible, so that love and peace 
 may be preserved among them. 
 
 Art. 9. Is a brother that was a speaker or deacon, and 
 has moved into another church, properly reinstalled in his 
 office, if an ordained brother takes the counsel of the church, 
 and announces the same to him, without he being received 
 by the members with hand and kiss? Considered unani- 
 mously, by the elders, that inasmuch as he was properly 
 received into his office, by the church in which he was 
 chosen, he would be sufficiently established. 
 
 Art. 10. About pride, in its various forms, which is 
 creeping into the church, it is thought highly necessary 
 that the Yearly Meeting instruct and urge it upon all the 
 overseers of the churches to see especially to that matter, 
 and protest strongly against all manner ot superfluity and 
 vanity, such as building line houses, and having paintings, 
 carpetings, and costly furniture, etc., together with the 
 adorning of the body too much after the fashion of the 
 world. We believe that we should deny ourselves, and ab- 
 stain from these things, especially the laborers in the Word, 
 who are called to be ensamples of the flock. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN 115 
 
 Art. 11. How it is considered by this Yearly Meeting 
 if brethren, who do not wear their beard, are to be ad- 
 vanced to administer baptism and the breaking of bread, 
 or even are to be ordained ? Considered, that we are much 
 grieved ; also, in this respect a deviation and want of self- 
 denial is becoming apparent here and there, and that it 
 would be well and laudable if we would not only keep in 
 remembrance, but also put in practice, the example and 
 advice of our beloved old brethren. In 1822 (twenty-four 
 years ago), the query had been asked, " Whether a brother 
 might be chosen to baptize and to break the bread of com- 
 munion who does not wear his beard?" and was consid- 
 ered that, according to the image of God (in which man 
 was created), and according to the image of Christ, we 
 ought to wear the beard; and that a brother should not be 
 advanced so far, who could not deny himself in this re- 
 spect." In 1804 (forty-two years ago), the query came up, 
 " Whether, if it be required, we might ordain a brother, as 
 a bishop, who shaves off his beard?" and was considered, 
 that, "as God created man with a beard, and again, God 
 commanded his people, in the law (of Moses), and especially 
 the priests of God, not to cut off the beard, and also, 
 Christ, our master and our example, together with his dis- 
 ciples, may become our pattern in this respect — in consid- 
 eration ot these and other Scriptures and examples, it 
 could not well be done in a sound faith and with a clear 
 conscience." 
 
 Art. 12. Whether it is agreeable with the gospel for a 
 sister, who is the widow of a brother, whose property will 
 not suffice to pay his debts, for herself to claim her full 
 third of the estate, if the laws of the land allow her? 
 Considered, that she has full power to keep what the 
 laws allow her; but if there be poor creditors, and she, 
 having a large dower, she ought to be as charitable as her 
 circumstances will permit. 
 
 Art. 13, As to the next Yearly Meeting, again request 
 
116 MINUTES OF 
 
 was made by our brethren in Tennessee for a general meet- 
 ing on the 4th of September next, which was granted by 
 the assembled elders.* It will, therefore, by the permission 
 of the Lord, take place on said time at the meeting-house 
 near Bro. Joseph Bowman's, in "Washington County, East 
 Tennessee. The brethren from the church at Antedum, in 
 Franklin Count}', Pennsylvania, made again application 
 for the next Pentecostal meeting, which w T as likewise 
 granted, and the brethren will, therefore, it the Lord per- 
 mit, convene in Annual Meeting in the vicinity of Waynes- 
 boro', Franklin County, Pennsylvania, on Thursday before 
 Pentecost, A. D. 1847. 
 
 Signed by the following brethren — David Pfoutz, George 
 Hoke, Jacob Pfoutz, Christian Long, John Bouman, 
 
 * The following qiieries are the counsels given by the meeting here 
 alluded to : 
 
 Article 1. How, and whether a brother can be received who had been 
 expelled from the church for selling and bill-of-saleing away his slaves, 
 and afterward wishes to be received again ? Considered, that such a 
 brother can not be reinstated until he has used every exertion in his 
 power to liberate them, and make full satisfaction to the church. 
 
 Art. 2. How is it considered for a bishop, with a few members, to ex- 
 pel a member without taking the counsel of the church? Considered, 
 that in all such important matters the church must be counseled. 
 
 Art. 3. Whether we should give liberty to preachers of other denomi- 
 nations to speak in our stated meetings? Considered, that it would not 
 be allowed, according to the gospel. (See II. John ix. 10.) 
 
 Art. 4. Whether a deacon can be ordained to the office of bishop? 
 Considered, that we have no authority for so doing. (See I. Tim. in. 10, 
 and V. 22.) 
 
 Art. 5. Whether a deacon should fill up appointments in the absence 
 of the minister? Considered, that he may, by singing, praying, exhort- 
 ing, and reading the Scriptures, but that he is not to preach until he is 
 legally authorized by the church. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether a deacon has a right to appoint meetings and preach 
 without being authorized by the church? Considered, that he has no 
 authority for so doing, but that he should try to discharge the duties in- 
 cumbent upon him in the office for which he has been set apart. 
 
 Art. 7. Is it obligatory for all the members of the church to wash feet, 
 to follow the example of Christ? Ans. That we should make no change 
 in the observance of this ordinance, but that every member should, as 
 Boon as possible, fulfill this command : " Ye ought to wash one another's 
 feet." 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 117 
 
 Dan. Bollinger, Andre Spanogle, Peter Nead, Dan. Miller, 
 Dan. Bernhart, Jacob Fahrney, John Funk, Peter Long, 
 Dan. Fretz, John Price, John H. Unistad, James H. Tra- 
 cey, David Shallenberger, Henry Kurtz. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1847. 
 
 It was on the 21st day of May, A. D. 1847, that the breth- 
 ren from the East, West, North, and South, assembled in 
 Annual Meeting at the house of Bro. Isaac Deardorff, in 
 Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and on the day following 
 entered upon the business of the church, which seemed to 
 be somewhat involved in clouds, and these appeared to 
 lower themselves and become darker. This produced an 
 anxious concern for the future peace and welfare of the 
 church, and at length the Lord in mercy was pleased once 
 more to smile upon his troubled children, and to grant them 
 a joyful expectation of his helping his servants in the ardu- 
 ous task before them. Thus, then, the points and queries 
 presented were considered and discussed, with rather un- 
 usual unanimity, in the fear of the Lord, as follows : 
 
 Article 1. Whether we could not amend our plan in 
 holding our Yearly Meetings, that the business might be 
 -conducted more quietly and orderly ? Concluded, in regard 
 to our Yearly Meetings, that the brethren meet on Satur- 
 day, before Pentecost, and have public meeting till Sunday 
 evening. Love-feast to be held either on Saturday or Sun- 
 day evening, at the option of the church where the Yearly 
 Meeting is held. On Monday the council-meeting to begin, 
 and continue until all the business is transacted or disposed 
 of. The council to consist of delegates, not more than two, 
 to be sent from each church, with a written certificate, con- 
 taining, also, the queries to be presented (by the church 
 whom they represent) to the Yearly Meeting. The dele- 
 
118 MINUTES OF 
 
 gates to constitute a committee of the whole, to receive 
 and examine all matters communicated to the Yearly Meet- 
 ing, and to arrange all the queries and questions for public 
 discussion ; and after they are publicly discussed, and the 
 general sentiments heard, then the delegates are to decide; 
 and if two-thirds or more of the delegates agree, let the 
 decision thus made be final; but if the nature of the case 
 be such that two-thirds do not give their consent, let it be 
 delayed, until it receives the voice of at least two-thirds of 
 the legal representatives. The Yearly Meetings to be at- 
 tended by as many teachers and members as may think 
 proper to do so, and the privilege in discussion to be free 
 and open to all who may desire to participate in the same,, 
 as heretofore. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether a brother or sister, whose companion 
 has broken the marriage vow by fornication, may marry 
 again according to the gospel, after he or she may have ob- 
 tained a bill of divorce? It was concluded by the brethren 
 present, that a brother or sister may not. (See Minutes of 
 Yearly Meeting, 1842, Art. 8). 
 
 Art. 3. Whether it is advisable for brethren, who are 
 teachers, to occupy a stand three or four steps high, when 
 they are invited to bold meetings in the meeting-houses of 
 the different persuasions or sects through our country?' 
 Considered advisable that teachers should practice discre- 
 tion and humility, in taking their stands for speaking, and 
 that members should, also, use forbearance, and not take- 
 offense, in such matters, if circumstances would make it- 
 preferable for teachers to occupy such a stand. 
 
 Art. 4. A request that the present Yearly Meeting recon- 
 sider the third query, as it stands on the minutes of the 
 Yearly Meeting of 1846, concerning the laying on of hands 
 on the deacons. It was almost unanimously concluded, that 
 it would be better, for the present, to leave this subject rest 
 as it is. 
 
 Art. 5. Would it be considered expedient for a church tc~ 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. ' 119 
 
 elect a brother for the office of deacon, whose wife is not a 
 member? Considered, that if he be a brother of good re- 
 port, and one in whom the church may have confidence, 
 this circumstance ought not to hinder the church from elect- 
 ing him to the office ot deacon, provided there be no other 
 objections. I. Tim. in. 12. 
 
 Art. 6. How it is considered, if a brother preaches up 
 the doctrine that Jesus Christ himself baptized, and con- 
 tends so hard for it, that it has already caused a division in 
 the church ? Considered, that the brethren present, at this 
 Yearly Meeting, unanimously believe that Jesus did not 
 baptize, but his disciples, as recorded (John iv. 2), and they 
 also admonish such a brother not to speak so any more; 
 and if he should still persist in so doing, that he shall not 
 do it in the name of the brethren. 
 
 Art. 7. How is it considered, if a brother preach a sen- 
 timent, on a part of scripture, that would not be in accord- 
 ance with the general views of the brethren (yet made good 
 doctrine), whether it would be agreeable to the rules of the 
 brethren, to make it a question at the general council-meet- 
 ing, and forbid him to preach it, or condemn him for it, as 
 erroneous, without first reasoning with him, or taking the 
 counsel of the church wherein he lives? Considered, by 
 the brethren present, that no accusation should be brought 
 before the general council-meeting against a brother, in 
 such a case, unless he first having had a hearing before his 
 
 own church. 
 
 Art. 8. Whether it may be proper, and agreeable with 
 the gospel, for a brother to borrow money from banks, or 
 speculating money-lenders, for the purpose of buying and 
 droving cattle, sheep, and horses, or for buying wheat, or 
 other produce, and transporting the same to the Atlantic 
 cities, or other public markets, for the purpose of making 
 gain or profit? Considered, that we, in general council, 
 would advise any brother not to engage so largely in trad- 
 ing, as there is great danger in so doing, both in a temporal 
 aud a spiritual point of view. (See I. Tim. VI. 9, 10) 
 
120 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 9. How is it considered, if a brother, or a sister, 
 should have two suits of clothes, one of them plain, to go 
 to meeting in, and one after the fashion of the world, to go 
 to other gatherings in? Considered, by the brethren pres- 
 ent, that it is very unbecoming for members to do so, and 
 that it would be the duty of the teachers faithfully to ad- 
 monish such brethren and sisters again and again, if neces- 
 sary, not to conform to the world in their dress and habits, 
 as the apostles, also, have warned us. (See Rom. xn. 1, 2; 
 I. Tim. ii. 9 ; I. Pet. in. 3, 4). 
 
 Art. 10. Would it be proper for brethren to join the se- 
 cret association of the Sons of Temperance? Considered, 
 inasmuch as we are to " prove all things, and hold fast that 
 which is good," and as the nature of secret societies is such 
 as to preclude the knowledge of them, before a membership 
 is obtained, we consider it improper for a member of the 
 church to join such an order 
 
 Art. 11. Is it proper for bretnren to have their property 
 insured by an insurance company? Considered, that we 
 can not advise brethren to do so, neither could we forbid its 
 being done, in a mutual way. 
 
 Art. 12. As to the place and time of our next Yearly 
 Meeting, invitations had been sent in from our beloved 
 brethren, in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, and from sev- 
 eral churches in Ohio, and in consideration of last year's 
 conclusion, it was decided that the next Yearly Meeting 
 should take place (with the gracious permission of God) on 
 Pentecost, 1843, at the house of Bro. Jacob Kurtz, in Wayne 
 County, Ohio, about fourteen miles west of Massillon, and 
 eight miles east of "VVooster. The brethren are to arrive 
 on Friday evening, or Saturday morning, in order to attend 
 public worship, and then continue with the council-meeting 
 from Monday morning until the business is finished. 
 
 Art. 13. As it was deemed necessary to be done, this 
 meeting, therefore, in the conclusion, would advise all the 
 elders and teachers, faithfully to labor in their respective 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 121 
 
 congregations, to settle and reconcile all matters of differ- 
 ence that may take place among them, as far as possible, 
 and not to embarrass the councils of the Yearly Meeting 
 with such local cases, that might be disposed of at home, 
 where all the facts may be more easily and fully obtained; 
 yet after repeated efforts being made to effect a reconcilia- 
 tion, without success, we then conceive it to be the privilege 
 of the brethren 'to call in the elders, from one or more of 
 the adjoining congregations, to assist; and should this be 
 done without success, it is then the privilege of the breth- 
 ren, if they think proper, to refer the case to the Yearly 
 Meeting, with as many of the facts and evidences connected 
 with the same as may be convenient to transmit. 
 
 Signed by the following brethren: David Pfoutz, John 
 Price, Geo. Hoke, Daniel Bollinger, Jacob Holsiuger, Jacob 
 Pfoutz, Jacob Fahrney, John Funk, John Molsbaugh, 
 Philip Boyle, Samuel Miller, David Hardman, John H. 
 Umstad. 
 
 A true copy of the Minutes. 
 
 Attest : Henry Kurtz, 
 Clerk of Yearly Meeting. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1848. 
 
 On Monday morning, June 12th, after Saturday and Sun- 
 day having been occupied with public worship, the council- 
 meeting was begun at 8 o'clock a. m., solemnly, fasting and 
 prayer having been recommended to all the members pres- 
 ent, at early morning worship, and after singing, exhorta 
 tion and prayer, and also reading the fifteenth chapter of 
 the Acts, business was entered upon by Brethren George 
 Hoke, Jos. Gerber, John Hart, Peter Nead, John Kline, 
 Philip Boyle, and Henry Kurtz, being appointed as a com- 
 mittee to receive the messages from the churches. 
 
122 MINUTES OF 
 
 The following brethren appeared as delegates : 
 
 ******* 
 
 Whole number of delegates was 95, and among them were 
 — ordained elders, 24; elders, 31; teachers, 14; deacons, 15; 
 and private members, 11. Churches represented, 59; and 
 though as fully represented as ever before, it is believed that 
 only about one-third of the churches had sent messengers. 
 The number of papers handed in, amounted to 63. Con- 
 sidering that the reading of all the papers, by one commit- 
 tee, would take up too much time, it was concluded to dis- 
 tribute them among ten committees, which were to exam- 
 ine them, and report thereon to the meeting. These com- 
 mittees were selected from the delegates, as follows: 
 
 The committees having reported, one query after another 
 was taken into consideration, and answered as follows: 
 
 Article 1. Is it right to admit, or invite, those who do 
 not belong to our church, into our council-meetings? Con- 
 sidered, that it is not proper to admit, into our council-meet- 
 ings, any person who is not a member of the church. 
 
 Art. 2. Whether it be proper to reconsider Art. 3, of last 
 year's minutes, relating to preaching from a stand ? Recon- 
 sidered, that all our brethren should endeavor, as much as 
 possible, to avoid giving or taking offense. 
 
 Art. 3. How are we to receive members into the churck, 
 from their first application, until they are baptized accord- 
 ing to the gospel? Considered, that inasmuch as there has 
 been, hitherto, a difference in the practice, and in the form 
 of words used in this ordinance ; and inasmuch as it is desir- 
 able to be, in all such matters, of one mind, and do and speak 
 the same things, this meeting has unanimously agreed upon 
 the following course, and form of words, and recommend 
 the same for adoption in all the churches : 
 
 First, the applicant to be examined by two or more breth- 
 ren ; then, the case to be brought before the church council, 
 before whom the applicant is to declare his agreement with 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 123 
 
 us, in regard to the principles of being defenseless, non- 
 swearing, and not conforming to the world; then, in meet- 
 ing, or at the water, to read from Matt, xviii., verses 10 to 
 22, in public, the candidates being asked if they will be 
 governed by those gospel rules; then, prayer at the water r 
 and in the water, the following questions to be asked : 
 
 Question: Dost thou believe that Jesus Christ is the Son 
 of God, and that he has brought from heaven a saving gos- 
 pel? Answer: Yea. 
 
 Question : Dost thou willingly renounce Satan, with all 
 his pernicious ways, and all the sinful pleasures of this 
 world? Answer: Yea. 
 
 Question : Dost thou covenant with God, in Christ Jesus,. 
 to be faithful until death ? Answer: Yea. 
 
 Upon this, thy confession of faith, which thou hast made 
 before God and these witnesses, thou shalt, for the remission 
 of sins, be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the 
 Son, and of the Holy Ghost. After baptism, while in the 
 water, the administrator to lay his hands on the head of 
 the candidate, and offer up a prayer to God in his behalf,, 
 and then the member is to be received, by hand and kiss,, 
 into church-fellowship. 
 
 Art. 4. How to forward a brother to the ministry, as 
 speaker, according to the gospel ? Considered, that the 
 church is exhorted to prayer, to guide them in a proper 
 choice, not discussing the subject with each other, but keep- 
 ing their thoughts before God only ; two ordained elders to 
 be invited by the church to hold an election, who shall 
 preside, and declare the one having the highest number of 
 votes as chosen ; the brother so chosen, having declared 
 his willingness to fulfill the duties laid on him, is then re- 
 ceived by hand and kiss. 
 
 Art. 5. Ought we to receive any person into the church 
 without baptism, having been baptized by any other order 
 of people ? Considered, that this Yearly Meeting advise to 
 be very careful in this matter, and give it, as their unani- 
 
124: MINUTES OF 
 
 nious conclusion, that it would be better to admit no per- 
 son into the church, without first being baptized by the 
 brethren. 
 
 Art. 6. Whether the Scriptures require that women, 
 praying or prophesying, should have any other covering 
 than the hair, and whether it includes alike married and 
 unmarried women? Considered, unanimously, that they 
 all should have a covering on their heads. 
 
 Art. 7. How to make arrangement, that in every church 
 brethren be authorized to baptize, and serve at communion- 
 tables? Considered, to leave this to the judgment of the 
 churches, with the advice of neighboring ordained elders, 
 whether they think it necessary or expedient. 
 
 Art. 8. "Whether the brethren, in annual meeting, could 
 not adopt a plan, that small churches, which seem to be on 
 a decline, could be better attended to ? Considered, that 
 such churches should call on the neighboring churches, and 
 these should attend to them ; moreover, it is the advice of 
 this Yearly Meeting, that every ordained brother ought 
 faithfully to perform his duty in this respect. 
 
 Art. 9. Whether a brother maybe allowed, according to 
 the gospel, to take pay (when offered) for performing the 
 ceremony of marriage? Considered, that this meeting can 
 not advise brethren to take a fee, and would leave it, as a 
 matter of conscience, to the ministering brother, with the 
 advice of the church in which he lives. 
 
 Art. 10. Would it not be better, in selecting the repre- 
 sentatives, or delegates, to the Yearly Meeting, to take 
 them all from among the lay members, or lay brethren ? 
 Considered, to refer this, and all other questions on Yearly 
 Meeting, to the committee of elders, to consider and report 
 thereon. 
 
 Art. 11. Can it be considered prudent, or profitable, for 
 members to frequent camp-meetings, or protracted meet- 
 ings, from time to time? Unanimously considered, not to 
 be profitable for members so to do. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 125 
 
 Art. 12. Can we receive a member into the church, by 
 baptism, without a confession ; and if not, what is that con- 
 fession to be ? Considered, that we can not receive a mem- 
 ber into the church, by baptism, without a confession; and, 
 what this is, see Art. 3. 
 
 Art. 13. Whether it would be expedient, or not, to bring 
 the question from the Yearly Meeting to each church, and 
 let them consider them, and at the next Yearly Meeting, 
 let the decision of each respective church be made known? 
 Considered, that it would not be expedient so to do, as it 
 would be the means of accumulating the amount of busi- 
 ness. 
 
 Art. 14. Is there any other way to receive members into 
 the church, than by baptism, or is it agreeable with the 
 gospel to receive such, that have been baptized with a triune 
 immersion, into other bodies, or churches, to receive them 
 in the church of God, except by re-baptizing them ? An- 
 swered under Art. 5. 
 
 Art. 15. If a sister married a man, and gets to know, 
 afterward, that he had already a wife, and she immediately 
 forsakes him, hath she the liberty to get married to another 
 man, while that man is yet living, according to the gospel? 
 Considered, that we submit the case to her own judgment, 
 and advise her, that she should, in future, be cautious, and 
 take counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 16. About the laying on of hands on deacons, it 
 was unanimously considered, to postpone the discussion of 
 this subject indefinitely, until there is reason to hope that 
 it may be done calmly, and without prejudice. 
 
 Art. 17. With regard to the printing of the minutes of 
 the Yearly Meetings, it was concluded to have as many 
 printed, as to supply each church with two copies, but that 
 on no condition they should be sold to such as are not 
 members. 
 
 Art. 18. Whether we have any authority for liberating 
 a person out of the avoidance, without the person making 
 
126 MINUTES OF 
 
 application ? Considered, that there is, to our knowledge, 
 no such authority in the gospel. 
 
 Art. 19. Whether two ordained elders, by the approba- 
 tion of part of the church, can alter the decision of three 
 ordained elders and all the members present ? Referred to 
 next general council-meeting, in Indiana. 
 
 Art. 20. Whether three or more ordained elders have 
 the authority of liberating, out of avoidance, independent 
 of the church ? Considered, that it can not be done prop- 
 erly without the counsel and consent of the church. 
 
 Art. 21. Whether it would not be more according to the 
 word in St. John's gospel (xin. 15), that a brother should 
 both wash and wipe his brother's feet? Considered, that 
 the brethren still think as they did seven years ago, in this 
 respect. (See Minutes of 1841, Art. 2.) 
 
 Art. 22. Whether a member, agreeably to gospel, can 
 withhold testimony against his or her matrimonial com- 
 panion, when such testimony is required. Considered, 
 that such testimony should not be withheld, according to 
 gospel, in a case where it is absolutely- necessary (for ex- 
 ample, to the conviction and salvation of a fallen member.) 
 
 Art. 23. Is it proper for members to have their property 
 insured? Considered, as in Art. 11 of last year. 
 
 Art. 24. Is the Lord's Supper observed by the brethren 
 according to the gospel, or, doth the gospel require a sup- 
 per in holding communion-meetings? Considered, that 
 we have ample testimony in the gospel to enable us to con- 
 clude, that a supper was eaten by- the Savior and his dis- 
 ciples, in the same night he instituted the communion. 
 (See Matt. xxvi. 20 ; Mark xiv. 17, 18; Luke xxn. 20 ; John 
 xin. ; Jude, verse 12.) And the Apostle Paul, after re- 
 proving the brethren at Corinth tor their disorder, in ob- 
 serving the supper, and speaking of it as the Lord's Sup- 
 per, expressly declares that he had received from the Lord 
 what he had delivered unto them, telling them how to 
 observe it in proper order. I. Cor. xi. 23—34. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 127 
 
 Art. 25. Ought not those queries which stand upon the 
 minutes of 1846, and were considered and decided by the 
 elders in private committee, instead of public counsel, be 
 repealed? The fact was stated, by impartial witnesses, 
 that the council-meeting was broken up prematurely, on 
 account of the multitude gathering in on Saturday, so that 
 the elders had to adjourn to a private room, in order that they 
 might give, as they were requested, their sense on queries 
 yet on docket. These queries were read, with the answers 
 given before this Yearly Meeting, and all were approved 
 of, almost without a dissenting voice. 
 
 Art. 26. "Whether it is proper in all cases to ask counsel 
 before giving a letter of recommendation ? Considered, 
 to be best always first to take the counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 27. Whether it is according to the spirit of the 
 gospel, as the 14th query in Minutes of Yearly Meeting, 
 1841, was laid down in Somerset County, Pennsylvania? 
 Considered unanimously, that the sentiments then expressed 
 are right, true, and according to gospel. 
 
 Art. 28. Whether church-members have a right, accord- 
 ing to the gospel, to go to public shows? Considered far 
 better for members to avoid all such places. 
 
 Art. 29. The committee to whom the letters concern- 
 ing our Yearly Meetings had been referred, reported as 
 follows : No less than twelve letters, from all parts of the 
 church, had been presented in regard to this important 
 matter, and after reading and weighing them all, and taking 
 also in view the general state of feeling and experience of 
 the present meeting, we propose the following in the fear 
 of the Lord : Considered, that this Yearly Meeting is as 
 anxious and unanimous in the desire of following in the 
 track of the apostles (Acts xv.) as our beloved brethren 
 were eleven years ago, at the Yearly Meeting in 1837. We 
 find, however, by experience, that the change of the time 
 of holding the coumfil after public meeting doth work 
 well — removing from us the great crowd of strangers. 
 
128 MINUTES OF 
 
 "We are also satisfied that the sending of delegates or mes- 
 sengers from all the churches is necessary and proper, as 
 also that all the elders, who come to us, ought to be mem- 
 bers of the meeting, whether sent or not. A general com- 
 mittee of five or seven elders is to be appointed, as hereto- 
 fore, and as many special committees as may be deemed prop- 
 er or necessary in order to dispatch business. But, as to 
 voting,we hold that it will be best to aim always at una- 
 nimity, and dispose of business as hitherto. Should the 
 meeting not be able to agree on any one point, let it be 
 postponed to a future meeting. In addition it was pro- 
 posed that all the churches should be admonished to use 
 every diligence in sending, every year, two delegates, or at 
 all events one to the Yearly Meeting. The above was unani- 
 mously adopted, without a dissenting voice. 
 
 Art. 30. With regard to the call from Indiana for a gen- 
 eral council-meeting in that state this next fall, it was con- 
 cluded, with one accord, that such a meeting shall beheld, 
 God willing, at the house of Bro. John Koontz, near Del- 
 phi, Carroll County, Indiana, to meet on Saturday evening, 
 September 23 — Sunday, the 24th, to be public worship and 
 love-feast, and Monday, the 25th, council-meeting to begin.* 
 
 * To the minutes of this year we append the minutes of the general 
 council referred to : 
 
 Article 1. Whether a private brother has a right to speak in public 
 meeting? Considered, that, inasmuch as there is a way appointed in the 
 gospel to enter into the ministry, those who feel an inward desire or call 
 to preach, should patiently wait until the church sees fit to appoint them 
 to the public ministry. (See John x. 1, 2; Heb. v. 4, 5; Acts i., etc.) 
 
 Art. 2. Whether it is proper, if more than two or three teachers should 
 rise in a common meeting to speak? Considered, that a due sense of 
 order and propriety will teach us how to conduct our meetings so as to 
 edify, and not to weary, the congregation. (See I. Cor. xiv. 32, 33, 40.) 
 
 Art. 3. How it is considered when a part, say a minority, of a church 
 disowns the other part, or a majority, of the members, without taking a 
 legal or scriptural course, and without giving a legal notice to the body 
 of the church, and not showing or informing the disowned members 
 wherein they transgressed? 
 
 [The difficulties in this case occupied the greater part of Monday and 
 Tuesday, and lastly were postponed for deciding until Wednesday morn- 
 ing. See Art. 12.] 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 129 
 
 Art. 31. As to our next regular Yearly Meeting, on 
 Pentecost, 1849, there was but one invitation, viz., from 
 our brethren in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, and it was 
 therefore agreed, with divine permission, to meet there in 
 Annual Meeting, on Saturday before Pentecost, the 26th 
 of May, 1849. 
 
 Having thus far tinished the task before us, with singular 
 unanimity and dispatch, and feeling, with deep humilty, 
 that not unto us, nay, not unto us, unworthy instruments, 
 but to God and his signal blessing, was due all honor and 
 glory, the brethren united once more in singing a hymn, 
 
 Art. 4. How -would it bo considered, if a man be put in the county- 
 prison for safe keeping until court, and a brother goes his security for 
 appearance, and releases him out of prison ? Considered, that a brother 
 ought not to rueddle -with such matters without church counsel. 
 
 Art. 5. Whether brethren, and especially teachers, can, consistently 
 with the gospel and our holy profession, attach themselves to the Free- 
 masons, and the society popularly called the Sons of Temperance, and if 
 not consistent, how the church is to proceed in such a case ? Considered, 
 that, whereas, the Holy Spirit testifies by the Apostle Paul (I. Cor. xi. 
 29), " He that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eatethand drinketh dam- 
 nation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body:" and, whereas, we 
 are informed in Holy Writ, that the Lord's body is his church — of which 
 we desire to be members — and he is the head ; * * * that from such 
 and other considerations and declarations of the word of God, the breth- 
 ren have always believed, and do still believe, that it is not only unbe- 
 coming and wrong, but highly dangerous, for brethren to attach them- 
 selves to such secret societies, or any association of this world, and if 
 they should do so, they should be visited in love (as the advice was forty- 
 four years ago, in a Yearly Meeting at Pipe Creek), and admonished to 
 withdraw themselves from such, and if they should acknowledge their 
 fault before the church, the members might bear with them. Bat in case 
 of a minister of the Word having gone so far, not only to attach himself 
 to such secret societies, but also to act as their chaplain and orator, it was 
 considered, that such a brother ought to be silent in the church, until 
 the members should feel renewed confidence in him again. 
 
 Art. 6. What is the sense of the brethren, when two districts are in 
 one neighborhood, and members from other parts move into one district, 
 and wish to hand in their certificate, and to attach themselves to the other 
 district ? Considered, that it would be best, always, that when districts 
 are laid off, all those in the one district ought to belong to it, and those in 
 the other to that. 
 
 Art. 7. How it is viewed, when persons, living in one district, request 
 to be baptized and receive:! into church-fellowship in the other district, 
 9 
 
130 MINUTES OF 
 
 and bowing themselves in the praises aud thanks to the 
 Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commending our- 
 selves, and the churches in union with us, to the God of 
 our salvation ; fervently praying that he, in tender mercy, 
 would continue to let his light shine upon us; lead us and 
 guide us through all dangers and difficulties, make us use- 
 ful instruments in his hands for the edification of his 
 church, and to the conversion of a sinful world, and finally 
 save us with an everlasting salvation, through our crucified 
 Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Amen. 
 
 Lastly, at the parting meal, Wednesday noon, it was 
 
 whether it is proper to receive them without counsel of the district in 
 which they live? Considered, that we deem it advisable, and it has gen- 
 erally been the course of the brethren, in a ease where a person made ap- 
 plication for baptism in a meeting out of the district in which the appli- 
 cant lives, to hold council with the members of that church in whose 
 bounds he resides. 
 
 Art. 8. How it is considered, if a brother, that is chosen for an office 
 in the church, should move from one church and neighborhood to an- 
 other, and bring no testimony along — whether he can be received in his 
 office before a testimony arrives? Considered, that, if such a brother 
 moves only a little way, into a church where his standing is generally 
 known, there would be no need of a written testimony; but if a 
 brother should move a considerable distance, it is right and proper to 
 require a testimony before such is received in his office. 
 
 Art. 9. Whether brethren can, according to the gospel, use the force 
 of the law and collect money from brethren, and thereby cause considera- 
 ble costs ; and whether brethren, causing such costs, should not at least pay 
 the same? Considered, that the gospel gives no right to use the force 
 of the law against a brother; and as to the other point, in regard to the 
 costs, the church can judge best in each individual case. 
 
 Art. 10. "What is the proper course for a church to pursue with mem- 
 bers that have been disowned by the church, and their office, as teachers 
 in the church, taken from them, and yet, contrary to the counsel of the 
 church, they still go on to hold meetings, and influence innocent mem- 
 bers to go contrary to the rules and order of the church? Considered, 
 that such a brother should be still lovingly and faithfully admonished, 
 again and again, to desist from such a course ; but if he would, notwith- 
 standing, continue therein, we would have, as a last remedy, to put him 
 
 in avoidance. 
 
 Art. 11. When the church disowns a member, so that it is set back 
 from the salutation of 'the kiss, and from church fellowship, how is the 
 proper way to do with such members as come from other arms of the 
 church, and, knowing the standing of such disowned members, yet will 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 131 
 
 proposed, and heartily responded to by all, to recommend 
 every Monday of our future Annual Meetings as a day of 
 general fasting and prayer, not only to the members that 
 may be gathered at the place of meeting, but to all the 
 members in every part of the Lord's vineyard, who yet 
 desire to be faithful, and to see all the household of faith 
 continue steadfastly in the apostle's doctrine, and in fellow- 
 ship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers, even until 
 He comes, who hath said," Surely, I come quickly." Amen. 
 Even so come, Lord Jesus ! The grace of our Lord Jesus 
 Christ be with us all. Amen. 
 
 Signed, in the name of the meeting, and in behalf of the 
 following ordained elders : George Hoke, Joseph Gerber, 
 John Hart, Henry Kurtz, Philip Boyle, Peter Xead, John 
 
 Kline, , James H. Tracey, Michael Moyer, 
 
 John Metzger, John Molsbaugh, George Shively, Jos. 
 
 still hold fellowship with such? Considered, that, inasmuch as the 
 church of Christ is one body, all over the world, and the Word even 
 says, "Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaA'en ; and 
 whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosened in heaven," if one 
 branch of this church disowns a member, members from other branches, 
 knowing this, should hold them equally as disowned. 
 
 Art. 12. In regard to the third query, or the difficulties of Bachelor's 
 Run Church with Bros. Oyman and Patton, and others, the brethren in 
 general council considered that there had been committed errors on both 
 sides, in consequence of which many members on both sides made satis- 
 factory acknowledgments before the meeting, and it was concluded, that, 
 with such, all that is past should be forgiven and forgotten, and with as 
 many as may yet come and make satisfaction, and that they all should 
 be received into full fellowship, and Bro. David Fisher in his office as a 
 speaker. Furthermore, this meeting considers and counsels, that Bros. 
 Oyman and Patton, and such others that hold yet with them, should have 
 yet time to reflect, and should they come, also, in a reasonable space of 
 time, and make satisfactory acknowledgment, then the church should 
 also be willing to forgive them ; but if they should persist in their con- 
 trary course, going on holding meetings in opposition to the church, and 
 even become railers of the church, there would be no other way than to 
 put them into full avoidance, according to I. Cor. v. 
 
 Signed by the following brethren — George Hoke, George Shively, Jo- 
 seph Showalter, and H. Kurtz, of Northeastern Ohio ; Joseph Gerber 
 and P. Nead, of Southwestern Ohio ; Dan. Cripe, of Elkhart, Indiana; J. 
 Molsbaugh, D. Miller, J. Hart, H. Metzger, J. Metzger, Jac. Brower, etc. 
 
132 MINUTES OF 
 
 Showalter, Ben. Bowman, John Shoemaker, George Ba- 
 
 righ, John H. Umstad, Jacob Meyer, , David 
 
 Shoemaker, Daniel Miller, John Shively, John Holsinger. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1849. 
 
 Article 1. How is it considered, if a brother teacher, 
 who is not ordained, makes appointments far and near, 
 without the counsel of the church ? Considered, that our 
 younger brethren in the* ministry, in all cases, should be 
 careful not to appoint meetings or do any thing that is be- 
 yond their calling, and consequently would offend the 
 church, or the older brethren, not only, but God also. 
 
 Art. 2. Is it in accordance with the gospel for a brother 
 to call the meeting to rise upon their feet, after worship is 
 concluded with singing and prayer, and then, with up- 
 lifted hands, pronounce a blessing over them ? Concluded, 
 that it should not be. 
 
 Art. 3. Can it be allowed for brethren to wear fur or 
 cloth caps, and sisters to wear trimmed-straw or leghorn 
 bonnets? Considered, to be inconsistent with the word 
 of God, and therefore it ought not to be. 
 
 Art. 4. Coneerning the holy kiss, how often should it be 
 practiced? Considered, if we have love for one another 
 we should not dispense with it, especially at our meetings 
 for worship. 
 
 Art. 5. Some members think there is too much feasting- 
 at our love-feasts, in providing so much for those who 
 come to feast, and make disturbance at our meetings. 
 Considered, that we are to feed the hungry, if we are led 
 by Christ's example ; and the apostle says, " Therefore, if 
 thine enemy hunger, feed him ; if he thirst, give him drink : 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 133 
 
 for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of tire on his head." 
 Rom. xii. 20. 
 
 Art. 6. Would it not be well to have a committee ap- 
 pointed, at this or some future Annual Meeting, whose duty 
 it should be to collect all the advice of councils, bearing on 
 all points of duty, and put it in the form of a book, and 
 bring it before the council of the following year, for their 
 approbation, and, if approved of, get it printed — so that 
 •each member might have a copy, not as a creed, but as ad- 
 vice, and as a testimony of the truth, as we understand it ? 
 Considered, to let this matter lay over. 
 
 Art. 6. An objection alleged against the printing of so 
 few of the Minutes of the Yearly Meeting ; would it not 
 be expedient to have a greater number printed ? Postponed 
 the consideration of this to auother query of like import. 
 (See Art. 43.) 
 
 Art. 8. Would it not be right for the brethren, in 
 •council at the Annual Meeting, to appoint several brethren 
 that are experienced and sound in the faith, and send them, 
 two and two, with the decisions of the Annual Meeting, 
 and let them visit all the congregations in the United 
 States, and establish them all in the same order, according 
 to example (Acts xv.) ? Considered, to leave this over for 
 further consideration. 
 
 Art. 9. What is the duty of a bishop toward his church, 
 .and the duty of the church toward the bishop or bishops? 
 In case a bishop commits an error, is it to be overlooked 
 more in him than in another brother in office, or a private 
 member? Considered, that elders that rule well, should 
 be counted worthy of double honor, and that overseers 
 should not undertake any thing of importance without 
 counsel of the church, and if there should be a general 
 complaint of the church against him, he is to acknowledge 
 his fault before the church, like another member, and 
 should not be spared ; for " if the eye be evil, the whole 
 body shall be full of darkness." Still, it was always the 
 
134 MINUTES OF 
 
 advice of our old brethren, that, in any case where labor- 
 ing brethren were in a fault, strange and impartial breth- 
 ren, of experience, should be called to assist in the investi- 
 gation and justification of the same. 
 
 Art. 10. Is it proper for members of the church of Christ 
 to take stock in railroad or similar companies — such as 
 bank stock, etc. ? Considered, as the stock of incorporate 
 companies, only, and not the individual property held by 
 the stockholders, is responsible for debts incurred by the 
 company, and as the business of such companies is often 
 much involved in obscurity, and persons dealing with such 
 companies may be liable to be deceived, brethren had better 
 not engage in such investments. 
 
 Art. 11. Is it proper for a member of the church of the 
 Brethren in Christ to commune with other religious soci- 
 eties ; and if not considered proper, how shall the church 
 proceed with a member that violates its order ? We con- 
 sider, that we can not, consistently with the views we en- 
 tertain of the gospel order, commune with other societies ; 
 and if any of our members should do so, they ought to be 
 tenderly admonished, and given to understand that the 
 brethren can not hold them in fellowship, if they continue 
 to do so. 
 
 Art. 12. Concerning the propriety and necessity of rec- 
 ommendations for members that move from one church to 
 another? Considered, that the ministers in the various 
 churches should see that none of their members should 
 move away without a recommendation, that no church is- 
 bound to receive a member without recommendation, 
 and that the recommendation be signed by not less than 
 two or three witnesses, according to the gospel ; that the 
 apostles gave written recommendations. (See Rom. xvi. 
 1, 2 ; I. Cor. xvi. 10, 11 ; II. Cor. vm. 23 ; Eph. vi. 21, 22 ; 
 Col. iv. 7-3 ; J.. Thess. in. 2, etc.) 
 
 Art. 13. When a member offends in a church, and moves 
 away without being reconciled, can he ootain a certificate 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 135 
 
 by writing, without personally presenting himself? Con- 
 sidered, when a member removes, under such circumstan- 
 ces, and is so far away, or situated unfavorably for coming 
 back to make reconciliation, when he wishes to do so, if 
 the church from which he removed is satisfied with his ac- 
 knowledgments, made in writing, it may signify this satis- 
 faction in a letter to the church where he resides. 
 
 Art. 14. Is the supper, which the brethren eat in con- 
 nection with the communion, sacred or common ? As 
 there seems to be some reason to believe that the Apostle 
 Paul alludes to the supper, with other means of grace, in 
 the term "ordinances," used (I. Cor. xi. 2), and as we view 
 it as a practice of the apostolic church, to promote the 
 spiritual edification of its members, we consider it a sacred 
 institution, and as such it ought to be observed, especially as 
 it is emphatically called " the Lord's Supper." I. Cor. xi. 20. 
 
 Art. 15. About the still-existing difficulties in Bache- 
 lor's Run Church, Carroll County, Indiana? Concluded, 
 in general council, that Peter Xead and Mich. Moyer, of 
 Montgomery County, and Daniel Miller of Preble County, 
 Ohio, with such other brethren as they may see proper to 
 call to their assistance, should be a committee to visit said 
 church, and try once more to settle the difficulties there 
 existing. 
 
 Art. 16. Whether each church should not select one 
 brother as a corresponding brother in the church? Con- 
 sidered, that each church may do as they think proper in 
 this matter. 
 
 Art. 17. Whether brethren can be allowed to have their 
 likeness or profile taken ? Considered, as not advisable. 
 
 Art. 18. Whether it is advisable to give preachers of 
 other denominations privilege_to speak at our regularly 
 appointed meetings? Considered, it is not advisable. 
 
 Art. 19. Should the supper, or part of it, be on the table 
 at the time of feet-washing, or not? Considered, to leave 
 this matter as hitherto practiced by the brethren. 
 
136 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 20. Whether a laying off of the large church, here 
 in the Glades, into several districts, would not be thought 
 expedient ? Considered, unanimously, that it seems to be 
 necessary and expedient that this church should be laid off 
 into four or five districts, and that a committee of elders 
 should be appointed to visit this church, during the ensuing 
 summer, and assist the brethren in laying off' and organ- 
 izing said districts, and at the same time, also, to visit In- 
 dian Creek Church, and settle the difficulties that may 
 exist in both churches. The committee was finally nomi- 
 nated, as follows : Peter Long, Andrew Spanogle, and John 
 Holsinger, of Pennsylvania ; Joseph Arnold and Jacob By- 
 ser, of Virginia, and George Hoke and II. Kurtz, of Ohio. 
 
 Art. 21. Is the Lord's Supper a divine or sacred ordi- 
 nance ; and if so, have the children of God a right to invite 
 such as are not members to eat it with them at the same 
 table and time ? Considered, to be a divine and sacred or- 
 dinance (as all the Lord's ordinances are), and should be 
 eaten by the members only. 
 
 Art. 22. Can a brother be allowed to teach sinsrino-- 
 schools on Sundays, and take money for the same? Con- 
 sidered, much as we are in favor of correct singing, we 
 still think it best for a brother not to teach singing-shools. 
 
 Art. 23. What should be done with such members, as 
 neglect attending our meetings for six or more months, and 
 when the yearly visit is paid them, they seem or feel satis- 
 fied with the church, and when there is a love-feast, they 
 generally attend and commune ? Considered, that the min- 
 istering brethren in the church, in which such members are, 
 should earnestly admonish them to adhere to the advice of 
 the Apostle Paul (lleb. x. 25. 
 
 Art. 24. How is it considered, when a brother, who is a 
 deacon of the church, holds and defends the views of Ro- 
 manists, and other sects? Considered, that such a brother 
 should be visited by the brethren, and admonished; and if 
 he still persists to hold and defend such views and practices, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 137 
 
 contrary to the views of the brethren, he could not be con- 
 tinued as a brother. 
 
 Art. 25. Whether it would not be agreeable to the gos- 
 pel, to advise those members, who have been in the church 
 two or three years, and are still conformed to this world, 
 not to come to communiou, until they deny themselves, 
 and become transformed from the world, after being ad- 
 monished thereto? Considered, that conforming to the 
 world presents itself in such various ways, that we can not 
 erect a standard in regard to it, so as to authorize the 
 church to prohibit such members from partaking of the 
 communion ; but such members should be admonished and 
 reproved by the church, again and again. 
 
 Art. 26. When the church deals with a member, or mem- 
 bers, and they are not satisfied with the proceedings of the 
 church, whether it is in their, or in the church's place, to 
 write to strange brethren for assistance? Considered, that 
 the church would have to write, if any strange brethren 
 should be called on. 
 
 Art. 27. To how great a degree must a brother sin, and 
 be degraded, before the church can put him in avoidance, 
 according to the gospel ; and whether all dealings and 
 communications, of a temporal nature, between such an 
 individual and the members of the church, should cease? 
 Considered, that this subject has been often before the 
 Yearly Meeting, and the views of the brethren then were 
 read. But on the particular points of the present query, 
 we would refer our dear brethren to the word of God, 
 which is plain, explicit, and sharper than a two-edged 
 sword. Paul, the apostle, says (Rom. XV. 4) : " Whatsoever 
 things were written aforetime, were written for our learn- 
 ing;" and he evidently refers, in these words, to the writ- 
 ings of the Old Testament. Now, we find (Levit. v. 17) : 
 " If a soul sin, and commit any of these things, which are 
 forbidden to be done by the commandments of the Lord; 
 though he wist it not, yet is he guilty, and shall bear his 
 
138 MINUTES OF 
 
 iniquity, and he shall bring a trespass-offering unto the 
 priest, and it shall be forgiven him." From this we may 
 learn, that when a member has trespassed against God and 
 the truth, even in ignorance, it is his duty to come to the 
 church, and bring his trespass-offering, such as David says 
 (Psalm li. 17) : " The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; 
 a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not de- 
 spise;" and the church, which, according to I. Pet. n. 9, is 
 "a royal priesthood," is to judge, and receive his offering, 
 and forgive him accordingly. Here are the words of Christ 
 himself, duly to be considered : " Whosesoever sins ye re- 
 mit, they are remitted unto them ; and whosesoever sins 
 ye retain, they are retained." John xx. 23, etc. Should, 
 however, such a member, that hath trespassed, be not will- 
 ing to bring his offering of acknowledgment of his fault, 
 not be willing to hear the church, then we may consider 
 this as a rising, a scab, or bright spot, which, eventually, 
 may turn into moral leprosy (Levit. xin. 2), and in this case 
 the priest (the church) had to shut him up; for, as Paul 
 says (II. Thess. in. 6) : " Now we command you, brethren, 
 in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw 
 yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly," etc.; 
 and as our Lord taught us (Matt. xvin. 17) : " If he neglect 
 to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man 
 and a publican." This withdrawing, or shutting up, from 
 close communion with the church, in the salutation of the 
 kiss, the breaking of bread, and the secret council, is con- 
 tinued until it appears, to the satisfaction of the priest (the 
 church), whether that spot is leprosy or not. Now if, on 
 examination, the priest found that white spot somewhat 
 dark, and that the plague did not spread in the skin, he was 
 to pronounce him clean. So, when a member begins to see 
 and acknowledge his fault, as somewhat dark, he may be 
 reinstated again into full communion. " But when the raw 
 flesh appeareth in him, and the leprosy is thus confirmed 
 [N. B. — He shall not be shut up, for he is unclean], and the 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 139 
 
 leper in whom the plague is, his clothes shall be rent, and 
 his head bare, and he shall put a covering upon his upper 
 lip, and shall cry, Unclean, unclean ; he shall dwell alone, 
 without the camp shall his habitation be." Levit. xih. 10, 
 45, 46. So our ancient brethren considered, when the 
 moral leprosy in a member was confirmed by raw works of 
 the flesh, such as are described (I. Cor. v. 11 ; Gal. V. 19-21, 
 etc.), that the direction of the Holy Ghost, by the mouth 
 of the Apostle Paul, was to be strictly and literally obeyed, 
 viz. : " Not to keep company, and with such an one not to cat" 
 Our brethren were well aware of some commentators ex- 
 plaining these words, as if they meant only not to have 
 fellowship with such in spiritual matters, and not to eat 
 with them the bread of communion. But they (our breth- 
 ren) found it impossible to believe, that the church at Cor- 
 inth should have continued, in full fellowship, such a per- 
 son as is described (I. Cor. v. 1) ; that they should have still 
 broken the bread of communion with him, etc., even until 
 the apostle reproved them by this epistle. They (the breth- 
 ren) also thought of the awful words (Rev. xxn. 18, 19), and 
 so they adhered simply to the word, as it reads, had no in- 
 tercourse, no dealings of any kind, with such persons, and 
 did not eat with them at the same table, or out of the same 
 dish, at any common meal, while they were in this state of 
 avoidance. Only acts of charity toward them our brethren 
 did not consider prohibited by the word of God. And 
 these views we still hold, in communion with our departed 
 brethren. 
 
 Art. 28. "Whether a brother, who considers himself in- 
 jured by any public improvement, such as a turnpike, or 
 railroad, passing through his land, can, without a violation 
 of the gospel, make use of the provision of the law, which 
 the Government has enacted for the recovery of damages 
 in such cases? Considered, as the matter has been fully 
 stated, that it would not be a violation of the gospel to 
 make use of the provisions of the law in such cases. 
 
140 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 29. How is it considered, when a brother solemnizes 
 a marriage contract, between a sister, whose first husband 
 is not known to be dead, and another individual ? Consid- 
 ered, that under such circumstances, a brother ought not to 
 act. 
 
 Art. 80. Whether it is advisable for a brother to preach 
 universal redemption publicly ; that is, that all men, how 
 vile soever they may have been, shall share alike in the 
 fruition of happiness with the saints ? Considered, that we 
 could not approve, by any means, of such preaching. 
 
 Art. 31. How are we to conduct, with colored members, 
 at communions? Considered, that this ought to be left to 
 the individual churches, in which such members are, only 
 that these ought not to be debarred from the Lord's table, 
 on account of their color. 
 
 Art. 32. Is it material what the supper is composed of 
 at communions ? Considered best not to deviate from the 
 order of the old brethren. 
 
 Art. 33. Is it safe and proper for the humble followers 
 of Jesus to go to the elections, and take an active part in 
 the political affairs of the country ? Considered, as it was 
 always the advice of the old brethren, and as the anointing 
 (I. John ii. 27) will teach every sincere follower of Jesus, 
 that it would be safest, in regard to political elections, to 
 remain as neutral as possible ; and, rather than going to 
 the election, to commit the matter, in prayer, to the care of 
 Him, who setteth up and removeth rulers. 
 
 Art. 34. Whether a brother, beiug elected to the office of 
 -constable, contrary to his will, would be justifiable in taking 
 the obligations of the office, and transfer it to another per- 
 son, who will discharge the whole duties of said office? 
 Considered, while the brother would have to be under oath, 
 and responsible for all the acts of his substitute, it would 
 not be safe for him to do so. 
 
 Art. 3o. Whether it would not be more consistent with 
 the Word, if, at the communion, the administrator would 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 141 
 
 give the bread and cup to the sisters, and they divide it, 
 like the brethren, among themselves, and the administrator 
 to pass along, to keep order ? Considered, unanimously, to 
 go on, in celebrating the communion, as heretofore. 
 
 Art. 36. Has a bishop authority to request a deacon, who 
 moved into his church without a letter of recommendation 
 from the church from which he came, to take his place at 
 a meeting for worship, and to preach or exhort? Consid- 
 ered, that he has no such authority, and the members that 
 move from one church into another, ought always to bring 
 a certificate of their membership and standing. 
 
 Art. 37. If a member commits an open fault in the world, 
 has the overseer authority to send brethren to investigate 
 the matter before counseling the church ? Considered, 
 that the overseer has the authority to do so. 
 
 Art. 38. Whether our hymn-books, now in use, could 
 not be improved, by a better selection? Considered, that 
 the hymn-books we have, answer our purpose very well. 
 
 Art. 39. Whether it would not be more according to the 
 gospel, in the observance of feet-washing, for the brother, 
 at the head of the table, to wash and wipe the feet of the 
 brother on his right hand, and that brother to wash and 
 wipe the feet of the next, and so on, around the table? 
 Considered, that as this question has so often been before 
 the council, and that the manner of its observance could 
 not be amended, we are still of the opinion, that the com- 
 mand is fully obeyed, if we wash our feet among one an- 
 other, as rendered by the German translation ; but we would 
 recommend to each brother and sister, at the earliest oppor- 
 tunity, to obey the command to wash, and that in washing, 
 the members should change frequently. 
 
 Art. 40. How are we to proceed, if a brother is not will- 
 ing to be visited by the church, in which he lives, but 
 claims to belong to another? Considered, that we should 
 always be subject to the church, or district, to which we 
 belong, as those districts are only laid off for convenience, 
 and not to divide the body. 
 
142 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 41. Concerning the propriety, or necessity, of giv- 
 ing meals to the congregation, at common meetings? Con- 
 sidered, that we leave this matter altogether discretionary 
 to every individual, church, or family. 
 
 Art. 42. How to prevent the influence of phrenology 
 and mesmerism among the brethren, adverting to the cau- 
 tion of Paul to the church at Colossus (Col. n. 8) : " Beware, 
 lest any man spoil you, through philosophy and vain de- 
 ceit?" Considered, that the brethren could, and should, 
 otherwise be better engaged. 
 
 Art. 43. "Whether each elder, teacher, and visiting brother, 
 should not have the privilege of having a copy of the min- 
 utes of the Yearly Meeting? Considered, that we are in 
 favor for each ministering brother to have a copy, and that 
 they be advised to keep them, if possible, from coming be- 
 fore the world; and we should further recommend, that 
 they should be sent sealed, as we have known them to be 
 opened in post-offices. 
 
 Art. 44. Would it not be more consistent with the sim- 
 plicity of the gospel not to use the word " delegate," or 
 "representative," in the minutes? Considered, that as 
 words convey ideas, we should use such as shall best answer 
 that purpose. 
 
 Art. 45. Whether it would not be best, at our Annual 
 Meetings, for the committee to investigate the letters on 
 Saturday, in order that the business might be more readily 
 disposed of on Monday? Considered, that the present 
 arrangement is probably as good as we could adopt. 
 
 Art. 46. Where is our next Annual Meeting to be? 
 Invitations were sent from Montgomery County, Ohio, for 
 the Yearly Meeting in 1850, and from Virginia, and Augh- 
 wick, Pennsylvania, for the Yearly Meeting in 1851; and 
 it was concluded, that our next Annual Meeting should 
 take place, God willing, on Pentecost, 1850, at Bear Creek, 
 Montgomery County, Ohio, and that our brethren in Vir- 
 ginia are considered to have the first claim for the year fol- 
 lowing, if the invitation be repeated. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 143 
 
 Signed, in the name of the meeting, by (order of) the 
 following ordained elders : Geo. Hoke, J. Showalter, Henry 
 Kurtz, Peter Nead, A. Spanogle, J. Molsbaugh, Peter Long, 
 John Kline, Jacob Sayler, Samuel Wampler, Peter Kober, 
 Jacob Meyer, Daniel Yundt, George Shafer, Joh.Holsiuger, 
 Jac. Stutzman, D. Shoemaker, Jos. Arnold, Thos. Clarke. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1850. 
 
 After the public exercises were concluded, the brethren 
 met in general council, which was opened, as usual, with 
 singing, exhortation, and prayer, and the following queries 
 were submitted for consideration, and decided, as follows: 
 
 Article 1. A request that counsel be given to the church 
 on Eel River, Indiana, in order that the difficulties there 
 existing might be settled. Concluded, that inasmuch as the 
 said church is in an unreconciled state toward one another, 
 this meeting doth appoint Brethren Peter Nead, David 
 Bowman, jun., Daniel Miller, and Abr. Ehrbaugh, of Ohio, 
 and Jacob Miller, James H. Tracey, and David Hardman, 
 of Indiana, as a committee, to visit said church, and assist 
 in settling the existing difficulties. 
 
 Art. 2. How it is considered, inasmuch as our beloved 
 brother, Henry Kurtz, is not present at this meeting, for to 
 appoint a committee, to have the minutes of this meeting 
 printed, and to receive all moneys appropriated to defray 
 the expenses of printing? It has been agreed upon, by this 
 meeting, that Bro. Benjamin Bowman, of Virginia, Daniel 
 Summer, of Ohio, and David Hardman, of Indiana, be this 
 committee. 
 
 Art. 3. The number of papers handed to the committee 
 of elders, amounted to fifty-five, which were distributed 
 among twelve committees, to investigate them, and report 
 thereon. 
 
144 MINUTES OF 
 
 The first committee, consisting of Bretnren George But- 
 terbaugh, John Myer, John Bower, Joseph Hard man, and 
 Jacob Funderburg, reported as follows: 
 
 Art. 4. How it is considered, if a sister marries an unbe- 
 lieving husband, who afterward doth ill-treat her, by slan- 
 der and debauchery, and, in many ways, abuses and grieves 
 her, so as to forbid and prohibit her going to meeting, or to 
 any of her friends and relations; she then, upon the advice 
 of her friends (members of the church), leaves him, and 
 tries- to get rid of him by law, upon which he offers to give 
 himself up to the church, and is willing to do what the 
 church lays upon him, acknowledged that he has done 
 wickedly, and promises to do better; but he having made 
 such promises before, and did not come up to them, the 
 friends of the sister do not think it proper for her to unite 
 with him again ? Considered, that we could not advise the 
 sister to leave her husband ; but if she did so, she ought to 
 remain unmarried, according to Paul's writing to the Corin- 
 thians (I. Cor. Vll. 11-13). 
 
 Art. 5. Whether it is right for brethren, in different arms 
 of the church, to go against the counsel of the Yearly 
 Meeting ? Considered, that it is wrong for brethren to go 
 against the counsel of our great Annual Meetings. But 
 should brethren not be satisfied with said counsel, they have 
 liberty, with the consent of their church, to bring the mat- 
 ter before another Yearly Meeting, for a reconsideration. 
 
 Art. 6. A request that the regular order of choosing 
 teachers among the brethren, should be entered at large on 
 the minutes of this Yearly Meeting, so as to counteract 
 wrong impressions, derived from certain publications. Re- 
 ferred to the next Annual Meeting. 
 
 The second committee, consisting of Brethren Jacob 
 Miller, Christian Arnold, Leo. Blickensterfer, Abraham 
 Frantz, and Em. Beeghley, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 7. Is a brother, being a full member in the church, 
 allowed to purchase cattle, and other animals, and follow 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 145 
 
 butchering, hire, or rent, a stall in a market-house, and at- 
 tend market, as a butcher, every market morning? Con- 
 sidered, that a brother engaged in butchering, in the man- 
 ner stated in the question, is surrounded with many diffi- 
 culties and temptations, and that we would advise brethren 
 not to do so. 
 
 Art. 8. If a brother, or sister, commit a gross crime, 
 such as getting drunk, etc., can it -be settled, by any visit- 
 ing brethren, without bringing it before the church, or 
 what course is to be pursued la such cases ? Considered, 
 that a brother, or sister, guhty of a crime, as set forth in 
 the question, should be brought before the church, agreea- 
 ble to Paul's first letter to Timothy (chap. v. 20): "Them 
 that sin, rebuke before all, that others, also, may fear." 
 
 Art. 9. Is it allowed for a brother to fulfill a worldly 
 office, especially one that holds an office in the church ; and 
 if not, what is the proper course to proceed with such a 
 brother ? Considered, that we could not advise brethren to 
 crave worldly offices; but if the people of the world should 
 impose an office on any of our brethren, they should, before 
 acting in such office, lay the matter before the church, and 
 act agreeable to the counsel of the same. 
 
 Art. 10. Whether we can hold, as members, man and 
 wife, that live together in strife, that have been parted on 
 that account, and now live together, but not as man wife 
 should? Considered, that We could not hold such as mem- 
 bers. 
 
 The third committee, consisting of Brethren Geo. Hoover, 
 Thomas Clark, Ab. Maas, Jacob Garver, Isaac Lawshe, and 
 John P. Ebersole, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 11. Request of next Annual Meeting to be held 
 with our brethren, in Augusta County, Virginia. Agreed 
 upon. (See at the end). 
 
 Art. 12. How it is considered, when a man leaves his 
 wife, and then marries an excluded t sister, and afterward 
 moves a considerable distance, where their standing is not 
 10 
 
146 MINUTES OF 
 
 generally known; there he makes application to be received 
 into the church, asserting that his first wife had committed 
 fornication, without any other testimony but his own ; then 
 a letter is written to the church, where the sister was ex- 
 cluded, for counsel, which is answered, advising to admon- 
 ish her to love the church, until the Lord may bring about 
 a way for her reception, stating, also, that they could 
 frankly forgive her what she had been excluded for; the 
 letter further stating, that there was a report that her hus- 
 band's first wife was dead, and another, that she was not. 
 Finally, he was baptized, and she received again, as a sis- 
 ter, without testimony, by the voice of one minister and 
 twenty-one private members, in favor, and one minister, 
 with three private members, opposed to their reception ? 
 Considered, that such persons should not be received into 
 the church, under such circumstances, and that the breth- 
 ren, who received them, have erred, and should make ac- 
 knowledgments before the church, in order to the recon- 
 ciliation of those brethren, who havebeen grieved at their 
 proceedings. 
 
 "Art. 13. Whether brethren, being requested, should visit 
 and pray for persons living in a state of adultery ? Con- 
 sidered, that they should be visited, instructed, and admon- 
 ished, and as they manifest fruits of repentance, or not, 
 pray for them, according to their state. 
 
 Art. 14. Whether the eighth query of last year's Annual 
 Meeting was not jfully decided in the eighth query of ttie 
 Annual Meeting of 1848, which, if carried out, would fully 
 answer the purpose ? Referred to next Annual Meeting. 
 
 The fourth committee, consisting of Brethren James 
 Kelso, John Metzger, Dan. Miller, on Four-Mile, Phil. 
 Kothenberger, and David Studybecker,"reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 15. "Whether it is according to the gospel for a 
 church to lay a public acknowledgment on a brother that 
 has made a public offense? Considered, that the ac- 
 knowledgment is to be made before the church alone, and 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 147 
 
 before all the members present. (See I. Tim. v. 20) : " Them 
 that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear." 
 
 Art. 16. "What is the duty of a minister, when called 
 upon to solemnize marriage, when one of the parties is the 
 child of members, and these parents not consenting to the 
 match, yet the minister knows of no other objection but 
 the daughter's going from home to get married ? Consid- 
 ered, as not advisable without the consent of the parents. 
 Paul says, " If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live 
 peaceably with all men." Rom. xn. 18 ; Heb. xn. 14. 
 
 Art. 17. How it is considered, when a sister has an un- 
 believing husband, who gets drunk and abuses her, and 
 tempts to kill her with an ax ; she then leaves him and 
 returns to her father, who then goes to the housekeeper in 
 the church for advice, upon whose advice a bill of divorce 
 is obtained? Considered, that a housekeeper has no right 
 to give such advice, without counseling the church, neither 
 has the sister a right to get divorced without such counsel. 
 (See Matt. xix. 6-9 ; I. Cor. vn. 11.) 
 
 The fifth committee, consisting of Brethren John Leth- 
 erman, Thomas Major, Isaac Hartzock, Henry ISTetY, and 
 •Jacob Ebersole, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 18. Would it not be more in accordance with Holy 
 Writ, and the consistent manner of a plain people, to use 
 the plain language, especially calling the days and months 
 by their number ? Considered nearer the gospel to use 
 plain language. 
 
 Art. 19. Whether it would be agreeable to the order of 
 the church, where there is a bishop and two or more teach- 
 ing brethren in one arm of the church, to elect a bishop 
 without the consent of the church ? Considered, necessary, 
 by all means, to have the voice of the church in such cases. 
 
 Art. 20. If a member commits a fault, whether the church 
 has the power, according to the gospel, to put that mem- 
 ber in avoidance without the assistance of another church ? 
 
148 MINUTES OF 
 
 Considered, that, if there is a bishop in that church, they 
 have the power in the case of a private member. 
 
 Art. 21 Whether there is any danger to be apprehended 
 from publishing a paper among us ? This subject to lay 
 over till next Annual Meeting. 
 
 The tenth committee, consisting of Brethren David Mil- 
 ler, Abraham Erbaugh, Jacob Wine, Daniel Nare, and 
 Peter Showalter, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 22. Whether the committees could not be selected, 
 and the questions taken in, at our Annual Meetings, on 
 Saturday, as well as on Monday? Considered, to leave it 
 as it is at present. 
 
 Art. 23. If a woman leaves her husband for his extreme 
 cruelty, and he obtains a bill of divorce and marries an- 
 other woman, and his first wife afterward marries' another 
 man, both being unbelievers, can such persons be received 
 into the church of Christ, according to the gospel ? Con- 
 sidered, that we could not receive such, according to the 
 gospel. Rom. vn. 1-3; I. Cor. vn. 10, 11, 39. 
 
 The sixth committee, consisting of Brethren John H'rantz, 
 George Studybecker, John Hunsicker, Benjamin Byerly, 
 and Christian Long, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 24. Can a member that is cut off, and kept in 
 avoidance, be afterward released again from the bonds of 
 excommunication, without acknowledging the fault, or 
 without coming and requesting to be released ; and in case 
 members are released without confessing their fault, or 
 desiring to be released, how shall other members conduct 
 themselves toward them ? Considered, that, where a mem- 
 ber has committed one of those faults mentioned by the 
 Apostle Paul (I. Cor. v.), and has been put in avoidance, 
 the church having sufficient evidence that he has ceased 
 from those evils, and by his earnest request, he may be re- 
 leased out of the bonds of avoidance. 
 
 Art. 25. There is a body of people, or brethren, in the 
 far West, whose doctrine and practice is somewhat differ- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 149 
 
 •ent from ours. Some of our brethren live near, or almost 
 among them. Now, the question arises, are the brethren 
 privileged, according to the gospel, to hold communion 
 with them, under existing circumstances? Considered, 
 that, according to the gospel, and the constant practice of 
 the church, it would not be advisable for brethren to com- 
 mune with them, until a union is effected, and they are 
 agreed to practice according to the ancient order of the 
 church. I. Cor. IV. 17. 
 
 Art. 26. Why the Annual Meeting was not conducted, 
 or carried out, according to the order or plan laid down at 
 the Yearly Meeting, 1817 ? Considered, that the querists 
 shall be referred to the Minutes of Yearly Meeting, 1848, 
 Art. 29, where twelve letters are mentioned, which con- 
 tained chiefly remonstrances against said plan. 
 
 Art. 27. About the laying on of hands, on deacons, when 
 installed into office? Considered, that the brethren, after 
 a long continued and attentive investigation of the word 
 of God, on this agitating subject in question, have come to 
 the following conclusion : 
 
 Whereas, it is plain, from the acts and proceedings of 
 the apostles, that there must have been deacons in those 
 days, and that these deacons must have been active in their 
 office, before the seven teachers or evangelists were chosen 
 and installed into their office (See Acts ir. 45, and iv. 35) : 
 "Distribution was made unto every man, according as he 
 had need" — from which we conclude, if distributions were 
 made to every man, there must, of course, have been those 
 that made them ; hence, it is the opinion of the brethren, 
 in this council assembled, that the seven chosen and set be- 
 fore the apostles (Acts vi. 6) were selected from among, as we 
 might say, the first class of teachers (See Acts vi. 3, 8 ; viii. 
 6, 7, 36-38 ; xxi. 8), and hands laid on them by the apostles, 
 to establish them, to settle the difficulty that had arisen 
 among the deacons about the daily ministrations, and that 
 the seven were not deacons in the restricted sense of the 
 
150 MINUTES OF 
 
 word, and were never called such — the word deacon never 
 once occurring in the whole book of Acts.* Therefore, 
 the laying on of hands ought to be practiced on such old 
 teachers that are set apart, and deacons ought to be re- 
 ceived into their office by hand and kiss, as the practice has 
 been hitherto with the brethren. The English version con- 
 tains the word deacon twice more (I. Tim. in. 10, 13), but 
 the Greek original has not the same word, and the German 
 translation is more correct in these two instances, saying, 
 literally (verse 10), " 'then let them serve, being found faith- 
 ful ;" (verse 13), " For they that serve well, purchase to them- 
 selves a good degree," etc. 
 
 The seventh committee, consisting of Brethren Abra- 
 ham Miller, Joseph Harter, David Mishler, Henry Bear, 
 and Moses Shoup, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 28. How is it considered, when a district or church 
 do not observe the ancient order of the brethren, and have 
 new orders among them? Concluded, that no district 
 church has any right to make changes in any thing what- 
 soever, contrary to the ancient order, without proper inves- 
 tigation before, and the general consent of, the Annual 
 Meeting. 
 
 Art. 29. Is a member, brother or sister, not as justifiable 
 in buying lottery tickets as in purchasing bank stock, or 
 taking eight or ten per cent, interest on money loaned to a 
 brother? Considered, that buying lottery tickets is veiy 
 wrong ; taking more than lawful interest is worse still, and 
 taking stock in a bank ought to be avoided, also, by breth- 
 ren. (One wrong can never justify another.) 
 
 The eighth committee, consisting of Brethren David 
 
 * The word deacon (Greek diakonos) occurs about thirty times in 
 the New Testament, and is rendered in the common English version 
 twenty times minister, seven times servant, and only three times deacon* 
 (See Matt. xx. 26, xxn. 13, xxm. 11 ; Mark ix. 35, x. 43 ; John n. 5, 9, 
 xn. 26; Rom. xin. 4 (twice), xv. 8, xvi. 1 ; I. Cor. in. 5 ; II. Cor. in. 6, 
 vi. 4, xi. 15 (twice), and 23; Gal. n. 17 ; Eph. in. 7, VI. 21 ; Phil. i. 1 ; Col* 
 "i, 7, 23, 25, IV. 7 ; I. Thess. in. 2 ; I. Tim. m. 8, 12, iv. 6. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 151 
 
 Ulrey, John Molsbaugh,jElias Dicky, Philip W ampler, and 
 
 D. Summer, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 30. "Who are the proper persons in the church to 
 administer the ordinance recorded by James (v. 14) ? Con- 
 sidered, the bishops, or ordained elders. 
 
 Art. 31. Is there any second order in the church, who 
 may administer the above ordinance in cases of great and 
 pressing necessity, when the proper administrators can not 
 be had in time for the urgency of the case? Considered, 
 in such case, brethren in less office, if at least one of them 
 is authorized to baptize, might serve. 
 
 Art. 32. May the above ordinance be administered to a 
 person who is not a member of the church, although sol- 
 emnly believing in the healing virtues of the above, both 
 spiritual and bodily, and requesting the church ; such per- 
 son being in a dangerous situation, having shown fruits of 
 repentance, and perfect willingness, if spared, to bow under 
 the order of the church ? Considered, that it could not 
 be done, but that we are to direct them to the grace and 
 mercy of God. 
 
 The ninth committee, consisting of Brethren Daniel 
 Miller, of Ohio, Philip Earner, Martin Miller, John Pfoutz, 
 and John Eller, reported as follows : 
 
 ^ Art. 33. Whether members, who have been put in avoid- 
 ance, can be released without their request ? Considered, 
 that they can not. 
 
 Art. 14. Would it not be better, and more correspond- 
 ent with the gospel, if the brethren would hold the Lord's 
 Supper more in unison with each other; for it appears 
 that some have bread and cheese, and some have meat and 
 soup, etc.? Considered, that uniformity would be better. 
 
 Art. 35. If a brother transgress, so as to be deemed 
 guilty of avoidance, should he not be cited to appear be- 
 fore the church, in the presence of the witnesses, to hear 
 the testimony given V Considered, that he ought to be 
 particularly requested to attend. 
 
152 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 36. In case such member be found guilty, by whom 
 should he be informed? Concluded, that this is a duty in- 
 cumbent on the ordained brethren. 
 
 Art. 37. If it is proven, by two or three brethren, that 
 a brother has been drinking to excess, yet not so much as 
 to disable him from keeping on his feet, but has often be- 
 fore been charged, and also before been set back or put in 
 avoidance, aud still denies the charge, would he not come 
 under the class of drunkards, or would it be prudent to 
 hold him as a brother, or should he be expelled by the 
 proof of four or five witnesses, though not members of the 
 church ? Considered, that no member should be put in 
 avoidance without positive proof, from members, that he or 
 she has been guilty of one of those sins mentioned by Paul 
 (I. Cor. v. 11). 
 
 Art. 38. Have we a sufficient right, according to the 
 gospel, to put a man in avoidance who has already been 
 put back from the kiss, the communion, and the council, 
 and disowned as a brother? Considered, that the church 
 has the power to do so. 
 
 The eleventh committee, consisting of Brethren Daniel 
 J ordan, Abraham Witmer, Jacob Metzger, Abraham Flory, 
 and John Roberts, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 39. How is it considered, when there is a regular 
 meeting in rotation in a district, and a meeting is requested 
 by people who are yet without the church, regularly every 
 four or six weeks? Considered, that a meeting maybe 
 held at the house of any one that is friendly to the Breth- 
 ren, on his request, if not interfering with other appoint- 
 ments. 
 
 Art. 40. Whether an ordained brother, who had been 
 once in avoidance, can be restored again to his full office? 
 Considered, that a brother can be restored again to his full 
 office by the voice of the church (as in a choice). 
 
 Art. 41. A request for a committee to be appointed and 
 sent to investigate a difficulty existing in the Mansfield 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 153 
 
 congregation. Considered, that this meeting sees fit to 
 nominate Brethren John Frautz, Dauiei Jordan, John 
 Molsbaugh, and John Shoemaker, as the committee for 
 that purpose. 
 
 The twelfth committee, consisting of Brethren John 
 Shively, Michel Myer, Chr. Wise, Rudolph Mohler, and 
 Jacob Studybecker, reported as follows : 
 
 Art. 42. Is it consistent with the gospel for the brethren 
 to recommend to the churches a day of fasting, to be ob- 
 served annually, and to have it published in the Minutes 
 of the Annual Meeting? Considered, inasmuch as the 
 gospel teaches us to fast and pray, to always pray, and 
 never faint ; and the Great Teacher says, a certain species 
 of evil spirits can not be cast out but by fasting and prayer, 
 we hope that every Christian shepherd will teach his flock 
 to pray and fast oftener than once a year, as we do not 
 know the time when he that goeth about as a roaring lion 
 may tempt or deceive us. 
 
 Art. 43. AVhy is it, that on our yearly visits, we ask the 
 husband of a sister, who himself is not a member of the 
 church, if he knows any thing against any member; yet 
 we are not to receive his evidence in council against a 
 member? Considered, that it is true, what Paul says, 
 "What have I to do with those out of the church?" yet 
 this does not prevent us from that which is no more than an 
 act of courtesy toward the husband of a beloved sister in 
 the Lord. (See Phil. iv. 8.) 
 
 Art. 44. A request from the brethren in northern Indi- 
 ana for the Annual Meeting of 1852. Considered, to be 
 left for decision of next Annual Meeting. 
 
 In conclusion, it is to be repeated, that our next Annual 
 Meeting will be, God willing, at the Brick meeting-house, 
 near ]\"ew Hope, Augusta County, Virginia, to begin on 
 Saturday before Pentecost, A. 1). 1851. Addresses to be 
 made, if necessary, to Bro. John Gerber, Xew Hope, or 
 
154 MINUTES OF 
 
 Bro. Peter Miller, Mount Sidney, all in Augusta County, 
 Virginia. 
 
 The business of this meeting being disposed of, a song 
 of praise was sung, and the meeting closed, as usual, with 
 prayer. 
 
 Signed by the following elders : 
 
 The general committee— George Hoke, Peter Nead, James 
 Tracey, Samuel Gerber, Joseph Gerber, John Brower, Benj. 
 Bowman, Daniel Yundt, Dan. Bernhard. 
 
 Other elders — Jacob Miller, of St. Joseph, Geo. Hoover, 
 David Hardman, John Myer, J. Leatherman, John Shively, 
 Henry JSTeff, John Hart, Joseph Harter, David Miller, of 
 St. Joseph. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1851. 
 
 Friday evening the traveling brethren arrived in the 
 neighborhood, and on Saturday morning public worship be- 
 gan, and was continued until Sunday afternoon, under a 
 great press of the people. On Monday and Tuesday the 
 business of the council-meeting was taken in hand, and 
 gone through. The chief points, which occurred, were'as 
 follows : 
 
 Article 1. A letter from East Tennessee/ Knob Creek 
 Church, concerning a confusion and division in that church. 
 Concluded, that a committee should be appointed by the 
 Yearly 'Meeting, to go to East Tennessee, to assist the 
 brethren there in adjusting their difficulties; and that this 
 committee, and others of the same character, should be 
 appointed by the general committee. 
 
 The following brethren were appointed for this Dusiness, 
 viz.: Benj. Bowman, John Hershberger, John Kline, and 
 Daniel Brower, all of Kockingham, and Benj. Moomaw, of 
 Roanoke, Virginia. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 155 
 
 Art. 2. A query, whether it is right to burden brethren 
 with paying postage, for letters sent by mail, they being not 
 interested in the same? Considered, that brethren should 
 pay postage in advance, when sending letters to get infor- 
 mation for their own benefit, in all cases. 
 
 Art. 3. A query, whether it is right for brethren to dis- 
 miss the congregation, by pronouncing a blessing over the 
 people ? Considered, that inasmuch as we have neither 
 command, nor example, from our great High Priest and his 
 apostles, of pronouncing a blessing upon the people, and 
 inasmuch as preachers are as needy of blessings as their 
 hearers, for which we ask in our prayers, after sermon, we 
 would deem it more unassuming, and more agreeable to 
 humility, to follow the footsteps of our ancient brethren, 
 as they followed Christ. 
 
 Art. 4. A request, from brethren in Shelby County, 
 Ohio, for a committee to examine into the proceedings of 
 the Logan Church in a case of excommunication. Con- 
 cluded, that Brethren George Shively and Joseph Showal- 
 ter, of Stark, John Molsbaugh,of Knox, John Shoemaker, 
 of Mohegan, and Jacob Kurtz, of Wayne County, be a 
 committee to visit said churches in Logan and Shelby. 
 
 Art. 5. A letter about the difficulties in Salomony Church, 
 Indiana. Concluded, that Brethren John Miller, of Elk- 
 hart, Henry Keff, of Turkey Creek, Dav. Shoemaker, of 
 Huntingdon, Nichol. Frantz, of Eel River, Abraham Moss 
 and John Bowman, of Wayne County, be a committee to 
 visit said church. 
 
 Art. 6. A query concerning the ordaining of elders. 
 Considered, that the ordination of elders is of the utmost 
 importance to the church, and should always be under the 
 special guidance of the Holy Spirit, who will teach and 
 remind a church of the right person and the proper time 
 for ordination ; that there should be a full union of the 
 church, and the elders present, on the subject; and that 
 where there is any serious objection, according to the word 
 
156 MINUTES OF 
 
 of God (see I. Tim. in. 1-7; Titus I. 7), the elders and the 
 church should be cautious to proceed, if the objection could 
 not be removed. 
 
 Art. 7. Should brethren have the privilege to put up 
 lightning-rods? Considered, that we would not advise 
 brethren to do so; nor would we say to those who have 
 them, to take them down ; but advise all our dear brethren 
 to bear with each other in such matters, and try to put their 
 chief trust in God. 
 
 Art. 8. "What is the opinion of the Yearly Meeting, with 
 regard to having a paper published, under the title, " The 
 Monthly Gospel Visitor?" Considered, at this council, 
 that we will not forbid Bro. Henry Kurtz to go on with 
 the paper for one year; and that all the brethren or 
 churches will impartially examine the "Gospel Visitor," 
 and if found wrong, or injurious, let them send in their ob- 
 jections at the next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 9. Would it not be better to alter the plan of hold- 
 ing our Annual Meeting, so as to have no public preaching, 
 but only a church council-meeting ? Considered, that at 
 this time we would make no more alteration but this, that 
 instead of meeting on Friday, and having public meeting 
 on Saturday and Sunday, we will come together on Satur- 
 day evening, and meeting to commence on Sunday morn- 
 ing, and to be no communion meeting at the place of the 
 Annual Meeting; the council-meeting then to commence 
 on Tuesday morning. 
 
 Art. 10. Would it be proper to reconsider the forty- 
 second query of 1850, or was it correctly answered ? Con- 
 sidered correctly answered. 
 
 Art. 11. An appeal to this Yearly Meeting, from White 
 Oak Church, in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, to ap- 
 point a committee to investigate, and, if possible, to settle 
 the difficulties existing there. Considered, to grant the re- 
 quest, and to appoint Brethren Andrew Spanogle, Peter 
 Long, and Samuel Lehman, of Pennsylvania, and Philip 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 157 
 
 Boyle and Daniel P. Sayler, of Maryland, to be, the com- 
 mittee. 
 
 Art. 12. "Whether it is according to the gospel for breth- 
 ren to administer the communion to a sick or disabled 
 member, in the daytime, and without celebrating the other 
 ordinances connected with it? Considered, not to be ac- 
 cording to the gospel. 
 
 Art. 13. A complaint from Sister Brand, of Frederick 
 County, Virginia. Considered, that Brethren Benj. Bow- 
 man, Peter Miller, John Wine, Samuel Wampler, and Ja- 
 cob Biser, be a committee to visit the church, in which the 
 sister and members concerned live, and investigate the 
 matter. 
 
 Art. 14. Whether it would be contrary to our profession, 
 and the doctrine of Christ, to make contributions to, or be- 
 come members of, the American Colonization Society, with 
 the view of the furtherance of the liberty of the African 
 race? Considered, that a person may contribute to the so- 
 ciety, but not become a member. 
 
 Art. 15. How is it considered, for brethren to appoint 
 meetings for prayer exclusively? Considered, that the 
 brethren can not recommend such meetings, as a general 
 thing, except in cases of peril; but, on the other hand, they 
 consider it a duty and privilege to pray in our families, 
 and in the closet, and other secret places, as well as to join 
 the public prayer in our regular meetings for worship. 
 
 Art. 16. How is it considered for brethren, that hold 
 prayer-meetings, and invite others, that are of a different 
 belief, to take part in prayer, and call them brethren? 
 Considered utterly wrong for brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 17. Whether the form of words used in the ordi- 
 nance of baptism, as laid down at the Annual Meeting, A. 
 1). 1848, could not be reconsidered? Considered, to leave 
 it as the minutes of 1848 have it. 
 
 Art. 18. Would it not be advisable for the brethren, as- 
 sembled in Annual Meeting, to establish certain well-estab- 
 
158 MINUTES OF 
 
 lished, ordained elders, and send them, two by two, to visit 
 certain districts appointed to them, etc.? The decision to 
 lay over till next year. 
 
 Art. 19. How are the brethren, when called upon, to pro- 
 ceed in holding funeral services ? Considered, that accord- 
 ing to the general and ancient practice of the brethren, we 
 would advise, that, in all cases, the services should be be- 
 gun and concluded by singing and prayer. 
 
 Art. 20. Whether it is according to the gospel, to let auy 
 of our poor members go to the county poor-house ? Con- 
 sidered, that we know of no passage in the gospel author- 
 izing this, but of many, where the duty of the church is 
 expressly enjoined, to support their poor members, and, if 
 not able, to ask aid from neighboring churches. 
 
 Art. 21. Whether a minister, or any other member, has a 
 right, according to Paul's treating on self-examination, after 
 being seated at the communion-table, to order from the table 
 any brother or sister ; or whether Paul's sentiment is to leave 
 the member, or members, until after the communion, and 
 then take them into the council of the church? Consid- 
 ered, inasmuch as the Apostle Paul writes (I. Cor. xt. 29) : 
 " He that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and 
 drinketh damnation to himself," we think that no member 
 should be permitted to remain at the communion-table, 
 when he, or she, is known, to a member of the church, to 
 have been guilty of a violation of the order of the house 
 of God. 
 
 Art. 22. How do the brethren, in general, pass the kiss 
 at the communion-table ? Is it to the brother who sits at 
 the administrator's right or left? Considered, that we see 
 no difference; but leave it to the administrator, as he sees 
 proper, or as circumstances will admit. 
 
 Art. 23. Is it right for our teachers to enter up into pul- 
 pits, in other denominations' meeting-houses, and teach 
 there ? Considered, that brethren should give no offense, 
 neither to Jew nor Gentile, nor to the church of Christ; 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 159 
 
 but we would advise brethren not to go up, when they can 
 avoid it, as the brethren had considered once before. 
 
 Art. 24. "With regard to the twenty-eighth query, in 1849, 
 a more definite answer is required, how far a brother may 
 o-o. in order to recover indemnification for losses sustained 
 from a railroad, turnpike, and the like, passing through his 
 land. Considered, that we might use the provision of the 
 law; that is, petition the court for what it will make, as 
 damages, but should use no violence, by putting the law in 
 force, for a recompense. 
 
 Art. 25. How shall the brethren at Beaver Dam, Mary- 
 land, proceed with the money willed by Bro. John Gerber, 
 deceased, to be distributed among the various churches that 
 have need in the different states? It is the advice of the 
 assembled brethren, that Bro. Daniel P. Sayler (his address 
 is Middleburg, Carroll County, Maryland) be appointed a 
 general corresponding agent, George Hoke and John P. 
 Ebersole, agents for the north part, and Peter Nead and 
 John Brower, for the south part of Ohio; Abraham Moss 
 for the south, and Jacob Miller, of St. Joseph, for the north 
 part of Indiana; Joseph Emniert for Illinois, and adjacent 
 states ; Benj. Bowman for the north, and Abraham Is eft' for 
 the south parts of Virginia, Carolina, and Tennessee; Jac. 
 Meyer, of Somerset, for western Pennsylvania; Andrew 
 Spanogle for the part of Pennsylvania, east of the Alle- 
 ghany and west of Susquehanna ; and Christ. Lange- 
 necker for Pennsylvania, east of Susquehanna and E"ew 
 Jersey, to report to Daniel P. Sayler, as soon as convenient, 
 the number of churches, and where situated, who are the 
 elders of them, and where there is help necessary. It is 
 further our advice that the above brethren shall report to 
 the committee of the Annual Meeting, every year, how 
 much of said money, and where it was distributed. 
 
 Finally, with regard to the next Annual Meeting, there 
 was but one invitation from our brethren in northern In- 
 diana, for the meeting in 1852, and two invitations for that 
 
160 MINUTES OF 
 
 in 1853 — one from our brethren on Beaver Darn, and the 
 other from our brethren in Washington County, all in 
 Maryland ; and it was concluded, that our next Yearly Meet- 
 ing, on Pentecost, 1852, should be, God willing, in Turkey 
 Creek church, at the place of Jonathan Weiland, five miles 
 south of Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana. Letters on the 
 subject to be addressed to Jacob Miller, or James Tracey, 
 South Bend, Indiana, or to John Miller and Henry Neff, 
 Goshen, Indiana. Also, concluded, that the Yearly Meet- 
 ing, in 1853, should be at the Beaver Dam meeting-house, 
 Frederick County, Maryland. Letters to be addressed to 
 Jacob Sayler, Johnsville, Frederick County, or Daniel P. 
 Sayler, Middleburg, Carroll County, Maryland. 
 
 In conclusion, all united in praises to God for the signal 
 blessings, and especially for the harmony and love, which 
 prevailed throughout the whole meeting. 
 
 Signed, in behalf of the meeting, by the committee of 
 elders — George Hoke, John Bowman, John Letherman, 
 Christian Longenecker, John Kline, D. P. Sayler, Dan. 
 Brower, Jam. H. Tracey, Jacob Meyer, Henry Kurtz. 
 
 First Committee — Daniel Yundt, Christ. Wenger, Mich. 
 Petry, John P. Ebersole, Abr. Flory, L. Furrey. 
 
 Second Committee — Peter Xead, Dan. Hollinger, James 
 Tabler, Adam Brown, Jacob Tomer, John Wine. 
 
 Third Committee — John Wine, Jacob Sornmers, John 
 Brubaeher, Benj. Byerly, John Deardorff, John Ogg. 
 
 Fourth Committee — John Hershberger, Benj. Moomaw, 
 David Bock, Jacob Miller, of Logan, Jacob Miller, of 
 Rockingham, Jacob Guth. 
 
 Fifth Committee — Peter Xininger, John Garber, David 
 Brandt, Abr. Grabill, Mich. Emmert, Daniel Senger, Dan. 
 Brower, of Ohio. 
 
 Sixth Committee — Abraham ' Xeff, Peter Miller, Christ. 
 Wise, Thomas Clark, jun., David Rothrock, Jacob Bru- 
 baeher. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 1G1 
 
 Seventh Committee — Abraham Maas, Benj. Bowman, 
 Jac. Biser, Jacob Ebersole, Jacob Wine, Will. George. 
 
 Eighth Committee — Jacob Miller, of Portage, Thomas 
 Clark, sen., David Rinehart, Abraham Knopp, Jacob He- 
 man, David Beeghly, Isaac Miller. 
 
 Ninth Committee — John Miller, of Elkhart, George 
 Schafer, George Bear, Daniel Keller, Jac. Mehring, Martin 
 Gerber. 
 
 Tenth Committee — John Molsbaugh, James Kelso, Jac. 
 Brower, Christ. Hupp, Will. Angle, David Kline. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1852. 
 
 According to appointment of last year, the brethren 
 began to assemble on Saturday, and on account of quite a- 
 large congregation being collected, public worship was 
 commenced that afternoon, and continued on Sunday from 
 9 o'clock in the morning till late in the afternoon. On 
 Monday morning, before public worship, the Yearly Meet- 
 ing was organized by a general committee being chosen,, 
 which then retired and received the papers sent in, while 
 public worship was continued. Monday evening the papers 
 were distributed among eleven committees, and on Tues- 
 day morning, the 1st of June, the general council com- 
 menced, as usual, with singing, exhortation, and prayer. 
 The following points came up at this time for considera- 
 tion, in the fear of God : 
 
 Article 1. Proceedings of a council-meeting, held No- 
 vember 22, 1851, in Adams County, Illinois, by the breth- 
 ren known as Western Brethren, with propositions for a 
 reunion with the body of our brotherhood, represented in 
 this meeting. After the differences having been stated, 
 and considerable conversation had on the subject, it was 
 finally concluded, that this meeting does not feel satisfied 
 11 
 
162 MINUTES OF 
 
 how a full and true union can be obtained on the propo- 
 sitions made by the Western Brethren, and that therefore 
 this matter should be postponed until the dear brethren in 
 the West become better acquainted still with the grounds 
 of our practice; and meanwhile we should exercise charity 
 and Christian love toward them. 
 
 Art. 2. A letter from Jefferson County, Iowa, referring 
 to the differences existing between the brethren, called the 
 Western brethren, and those of our brethren settled around 
 and among them, from the East, and wishing to be guided 
 in their intercourse with them by the counsel of this meet- 
 ing. Considered, as answered by the foregoing decision. 
 
 Art. 3. Have we a right to help make the political 
 government, and to serve as officers, also, to put the law 
 in force against any of our fellow-men, in any case what- 
 ever? Considered, that the brethren should be careful, 
 and not betray their profession in helping to make and 
 serve the civil government, and, if they give in their vote, 
 they should do it in a quiet and peaceable manner, without 
 taking part in electioneering, and return immediately from 
 the ground; that brethren should hold no office under the 
 civil government that would cause them to betray their 
 faith; and as respects using the^aw against our fellow 
 •creatures, brethren should use lenity and Christian for- 
 bearance toward our fellow-men, and not compel them by 
 the law, unless prompted so to do by stern necessity. But 
 before so doing they should always take the counsel of 
 the church. 
 
 Art. 4. In regard to the continuation of the " Gospel 
 Visitor," it was concluded, that inasmuch as there is a di- 
 versity of opinion upon the subject — some in favor, and 
 others opposed — we can not forbid its publication at this 
 time, and hope those brethren opposed to it will exercise 
 forbearance, and let it stand or fall, on its own merits. 
 
 Art. 5. Respecting the publication of the names of the 
 special committees in the minutes, it was considered ad- 
 visable not to insert so many names. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 163 
 
 Art. 6. Whether it would not be advisable to read the pro- 
 ceedings of the meeting at the conclusion of the same 
 meeting ? Considered, unnecessary, inasmuch as they are 
 read again and again, one by one. But that the elders of 
 each district should procure a copy of the proceedings of 
 the Annual Meeting, and have the same read before their 
 respective churches, and preserve the same for reference. 
 
 Art. 7. With regard to sending traveling brethren, ac- 
 cording to Art. 18 of last year's minutes, it was concluded, 
 that every church, and even members, have the privilege 
 to call on the Yearly Meeting, or otherwise, for brethren 
 to visit them. 
 
 Art. 8. Whether the commission of our Lord and Savior 
 Jesus Christ (Matt. xxvm. 19, 20; Mark xvi. 15) does not 
 require of the church to send brethren to preach the gospel, 
 where the name of Christ is not known ? Considered, that 
 the brethren acknowledge the great commission of Christ to 
 its full extent, and that it is the duty of the church, the min- 
 isters, and every private member, to do all that is in their 
 power to fulfill that commission in accordance with apos- 
 tolic practice. 
 
 Art. 9. What is the duty of a bishop, who has the over- 
 sight of an adjoining congregation, in which there is no 
 householder, and only one speaker, and has that church 
 liberty to call elders, and have a bishop or speaker ap- 
 pointed? Considered, that it is the duty of a bishop to 
 attend to the necessities of such church, and if he neglects 
 his duty, such church, if unanimous, may call other elders 
 to assist them. 
 
 Art. 1.0. Has a brother, who is a speaker, a right to go 
 to so-called spiritual rappings, and ask such questions as 
 these : "Are the ordinances of the gospel essential to sal- 
 vation?" "Are certain deceased relatives happy?" etc., 
 and to invite the so-called medium into his neighborhood, 
 who theerupon calls at such brother's house, and neigh- 
 
164 MINUTES OF 
 
 bors, and also members, attend there, asking and receiving 
 information from such medium ? How is such a brother to 
 be dealt with, according to gospel ? Considered, that such 
 rappings are a lying wonder and delusion, and that these 
 things have been strongly forbidden, both in the Old and 
 New Testament, as the works of the devil. (See Deut. 
 xviii. 9-16; Lev. xix. 31, xx. 6, 27; Is. vm. 19, 20; Acts 
 xvi. 16-18; Luke xi. 14; II. Thess. n. 9-11 ; Rev. xm. 13.) 
 And where any brother goes so far as stated above, he 
 should be admonished, and ought to make satisfactory ac- 
 knowledgments to the church, and all the members should 
 be earnestly admonished to have nothing to do with it, and 
 totally to debar it from among them. 
 
 Art. 11. Has a brother a right to have or keep in his 
 house costly musical instruments ? Considered, that mem- 
 bers could lay out their money to a better advantage. 
 
 Art. 12. How is it considered by the brethren, if brethren 
 aid and assist in building great houses for high schools, 
 and send their children to the same? Considered, that 
 brethren should be very cautious and not mind high things, 
 but condescend to men of low estate. Rom. xn. 16. 
 
 Art. 13. How it is considered, for a laboring brother in 
 the gospel, to attend to store-keeping, or for brethren to 
 sell their farms and go in for store-keeping? Considered, 
 that brethren should not do so, and least of all, the labor- 
 ing brethren. 
 
 Art. 14. How is it considered, when brethren do any 
 kind of servile work on the Sabbath or Lord's-day ? Con- 
 sidered, that brethren should by no means do any servile 
 work on the Christian Sabbath day, nor engage in sporting, 
 such as fishing, hunting, etc. And in case members will 
 do so, they should be visited in the name of the church, 
 and heartily admonished to do so no more, and if they 
 should persist in so doing, they should be dealt with as 
 offenders. (That necessary labors, such as feeding and 
 watering creatures, preparing food for the family, and the 
 like, form an exception, is obvious ) 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 165 
 
 Art. 15. The committee appointed last year to visit Sal- 
 amony Church, in this state (Indiana), in order to settle the 
 difficulties there, reported that they could not yet accom- 
 plish the object of their apointment, but that there was 
 now a prospect of doing it, and request some more brethren 
 to be added. Concluded, that this committee should be re- 
 appointed, with the addition of James Tracey, of Elkhart, 
 and Jacob Miller, of Portage. 
 
 Art. 16. Request of a committee to go to Tiffin Church, 
 Seneca County, Ohio, concerning a sister whose husband left 
 her, and she remained thus forsaken for seven years, but has 
 now got a bill of divorce, and is married again. The fol- 
 lowing brethren were proposed and appointed a committee 
 to investigate and settle this business : Joseph Showalter, 
 of Stark County; John Molsbaugh, of Knox"; John Shoe- 
 maker, of Mohegan ; Elias Dicky, of Ashland, and Jacob 
 Kurtz, of Wayne County — all in Ohio. 
 
 Art. 17. How are churches to proceed in the following 
 case? A brother being cut off from the church with an 
 excluded party, and afterward becomes guilty of adultery. 
 Considered, to hold him as the church does such party. 
 See I. Cor. v. 13: "But them that are without, God judg- 
 eth." 
 
 Art. 18. Whether members have a right, by the gospel, 
 to go begging for money through the different churches ? 
 Considered, that they have no right, according to the 
 gospel, and where there are poor members that are in a 
 suffering condition, it is the duty of the church in which 
 they live to see to it, and to supply their wants, and if that 
 church is not able to support them, the church has a right 
 to apply to the neighboring churches for help, and not the 
 brother that is in want. 
 
 Art. 19. How is it considered, if a brother is legally ex- 
 pelled from the church, and afterward is taken sick, when 
 he calls for the brethren, and requests of them to be an- 
 ointed, and the brethren do anoint him, knowing that he 
 
166 MINUTES OF 
 
 is excluded from the churcli ? Considered, that according 
 to gospel, we have no right to anoint such as are not in fel- 
 lowship with the church. The Word (See James v.) goes 
 only to the faithful. 
 
 Art. 20. Are persons, who can be up and about, and go 
 to meeting, proper subjects to receive the anointing, or has 
 the apostle only reference to such who are altogether con- 
 lined ? Considered, that the apostle has only alluded to 
 those who are sick or in a decline of life. 
 
 Art. 21. Is it agreeable to the sense of the word, that 
 the anointing should be performed more than ouce in the 
 same illness or confinement? Considered, that no person 
 should be anointed more than once in the same sickness, 
 according to our understanding of the word of God. 
 
 Art. 22. If a member leaves the church and joins an- 
 other denomination, and after a while leaves that denomi- 
 nation and makes application to be received back into the 
 church again, has the church a right to receive that mem- 
 ber again ? Considered, that by acknowledging his or her 
 fault, and giving satisfaction to the church, he may be re- 
 ceived again. 
 
 Art. 23. Is it right for brethren to take an active part 
 in the construction of public works, such as railroads, turn- 
 pikes, plank-roads, and canals, and thereby are instrumental 
 in damaging the property of many citizens ? Considered, 
 that brethren ought not to take an active part in any public 
 work, to the injury of private property, but always should 
 do as they would wish to be done unto, and not be entan- 
 gled with the affairs of this world. II. Tim. n. 4. 
 
 Art. 24. Have we a right to refuse the salutation of the 
 holy kiss to a brother that is intoxicated with strong drink, 
 or to one that is unclean by the intemperate use of tobacco ? 
 Considered, that no brother could be censured if he refuses 
 to salute a brother intoxicated, or unclean with using to- 
 bacco or strong drink. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 167 
 
 Art. 25, A call for a committee to be sent to Jonathan's 
 Creek, Ohio. The following brethren were appointed for 
 the business : John Molsbaugh, John Shoemaker, of Mo- 
 hegan, John P. Ebersole, Jacob Kurtz, and Henry Davy. 
 
 Art. 26. A request for a committee to visit two church 
 districts in Montgomery County, Ohio. The request was 
 granted by nominating Benjamin Bowman and David 
 Hardman, of Indiana; Daniel Miller, of ^Preble; George 
 Butterbaugh, of Miami; John Frantz, of Clark; Michel 
 Meyer, of Montgomery, and Abraham Miller, of Allen — 
 all in Ohio. 
 
 Art. 27. Is it according to the gospel to receive a man 
 into the church, belonging to the order of Odd Fellows? 
 Considered, that it is not, unless he is willing to withdraw 
 from and renounce that order. 
 
 Art. 28. A request from the church between Salem and 
 Union, Montgomery County, Ohio, for the assistance of a 
 committee. This request was also granted, by appointing 
 George Hoover, of Henry; George "W. Studybecker, Daniel 
 Miller, of Four-Mile, John Shively and Martin Cable, all 
 of Indiana, to be said committee. 
 
 Art. 29. The following was also proposed and adopted : 
 This meeting would advise, that every church, before the 
 time of the Annual Meeting, should take counsel, and 
 select brethren to represent them in Annual Meeting, and 
 also counsel whether they have any thing to send, and if 
 so, that they pass the counsel of the church, and put every 
 question on a paper by itself, and state from what church, 
 and sign it, and fold it, and write on the back of it briefly 
 what the question is. Thus it should be handed in or sent 
 by mail. Brethren who would bring questions otherwise 
 than in the above way, should come before the committee, 
 and state the question, and the reason why they could not 
 counsel the church, else the question can not be received. 
 (The object of this is chiefly to concentrate the business of 
 the meeting, which otherwise could not be gone through in 
 so short a time as two or three days.) 
 
168 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 30. A petition, signed by more than seventy mem- 
 bers, for a committee to investigate the case of Daniel Zook, 
 of Snake Spring Valley, Pennsylvania. Granted, by ap- 
 pointing Peter Long, of Perry; Andrew Spanogle, of 
 Huntingdon, and Jacob Meyer, of Somerset County, all in 
 Pennsylvania, and Joseph Arnold and Jacob Biser, of 
 Hampshire County, Virginia, to be said committee. 
 
 Art. 31. Regarding our next Annual Meeting, the invi- 
 tation was repeated by our dear brethren at Beaver Dam, 
 Maryland, for next year, and a new invitation laid in from 
 the Aughwick Church, Pennsylvania, for the year after 
 next ; and it was concluded, that our next Yearly Meet- 
 ing should be, God willing, on Pentecost, 1853, with our 
 beloved brethren in Beaver Dam church, Maryland, and 
 inasmuch as it has been granted to our Western brethren 
 to have the Yearly Meeting every second year, it was 
 agreed, that if they do not make a request, particularly 
 urging, our dear Aughwich brethren shall have the first 
 claim for the Yearly Meeting in 1854. 
 
 Letters concerning next Annual Meeting may be ad- 
 dressed to either of the following brethren : Jacob Sayleror 
 Isaac Pfoutz, Johnsville, Frederick County, Maryland, or 
 Daniel P. Sayler, Middleburg, Carroll County, Maryland. It 
 was also stated that brethren coming from a distance b} T rail- 
 road should make Monrovia., Frederick County, Maryland, 
 their stopping-place, where a brother will be in attendance 
 at the depot, and conveyances provided to bring the breth- 
 ren to the place of meeting. 
 
 Finally, the meeting was closed with prayer and praise 
 on Wednesday afternoon, about 4 o'clock 
 
 Signed by the committee, George Hoke, Geo. Shively, 
 Jos. Emmert, John Kline, Dan. Bernhart, D. P. Sayler, 
 Ben. Bowman, D. Miller, II. Kurtz. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 169 
 
 AXNUAL MEETING OF 1853. 
 
 The following points had been presented, and were con- 
 sidered in the fear of the Lord : 
 
 Article 1. Whether it would not give more general sat- 
 isfaction, in the arrangement of the standing committee, to 
 select them, by ballot, out of the whole number of ordained 
 brethren present? Considered, unanimously, to make no 
 change, in this matter, from the ancient and present usage, 
 viz., that the elders of the church, where the Yearly Meet- 
 ing is held, should have the privilege, as heretofore, to 
 nominate said committee. 
 
 Art. 2. "Whether it is necessary to abide by the twenty- 
 ninth article of last year's minutes, with regard to indors- 
 ing the letters on the outside, whether they contained que- 
 ries or not? Concluded, unanimously, that this article be 
 so altered that only the word query, and how many que- 
 ries? be indorsed on the outside. 
 
 Art. 8. In regard to the fourth query of last year's min- 
 utes, concerning the " Gospel Visitor?" Inasmuch as the 
 "Visitor" is a private undertaking of its editor, we unani- 
 mously conclude that this meeting should not any further 
 interfere with it. 
 
 Art. 4. Is it consistent with the gospel and its principles, 
 as professed by our brotherhood, when a brother is chosen 
 to the ministry only, not being authorized to baptize, that 
 the ordained elder of the congregation should forward such 
 brother, without consulting the church? Considered, that 
 all the power under God is vested in the church, and that, 
 therefore, the church should, in all such cases, be consulted. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it right for brethren to have intoxicating liq- 
 uors at public sales? Considered as wrong, that it should 
 not be so at all, nor at any other gathering. 
 
 Art. 6. Is it right for brethren to take a dram in public, 
 when in perfect health ? We are of opinion that it has the 
 
170 MINUTES OF 
 
 appearance of evil, and should not be indulged in, or par- 
 taken of at all, as a beverage. 
 
 Art. 7. How it is considered, when a brother lets his beard 
 grow awhile, and afterward cuts it off, or trims it according 
 to the fashion of the world t The committee was of the opin- 
 ion, that if a brother lets his beard grow, in honor of his 
 profession, that he should not cut it off, nor, by any means, 
 to trim it in conformity to the fashions of the world. (See 
 Kom. xii.). This was adopted. 
 
 Art. 8. How shall we proceed, in case we have a love- 
 feast, and a sister, or sisters, come from another congrega- 
 tion to our love-feast, who wear ear-rings or jewels; 
 whether we have a right to take them in council, and, if 
 not willing to lay them off, whether we are privileged to 
 keep them from the communion-table? The committee 
 was decidedly of opinion that as it is positively forbidden 
 by Holy Writ (see I. Peter in. 3; I. Tim. n. 9), it should 
 not be tolerated, except in cases of actual necessity; and 
 that the church, where such members propose to partici- 
 pate in the communion, has the right to take them into 
 council, and if they are not willing to be admonished, to 
 advise them to withdraw till they are willing to sacrifice 
 those forbidden things. 
 
 Art. 9. Concerning slavery. How shall any branch of 
 the church proceed, in case an individual wishes to become 
 a member, who is in possession of a slave or slaves, and 
 the law of the state in which they reside is such that they 
 can not manumit them in safety, without transporting them 
 beyond its limits ; and as we are aware that the several 
 states where slavery does not exist are contemplating and 
 passing strenuous laws, prohibiting their emigration thither, 
 etc., it seems indispensably necessary for us to adopt some 
 other plan than hitherto practiced, in order that the church 
 should be kept clear from the evils of slavery, and that such 
 persons may be enabled to come into Christ's kingdom ? 
 The questions involved were considered too important, and 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 171 
 
 therefore concluded to intrust this matter to a committee, to 
 report thereon as soon as possible, the committee to con- 
 sist of the following brethren: Joseph Arnold and Benj. 
 Moomaw, of Virginia, John M. Umstad, Sam. Lehman, 
 Isaac Price, and David Bosserman, of Pennsylvania, and 
 Daniel P. Sayler and Henry Koons, of Maryland. 
 
 Art. 10. A request from the church in Williams County, 
 Ohio, for a visit, in order to settle difficulties among the 
 leading members of said church. It was concluded to ap- 
 point a committee, consisting of Jacob Miller, of Portage, 
 Indiana; Abraham Miller, of Allen, John P. Ebersole, of 
 Seneca, and Elias Dicky, of Ashland, all in Ohio. 
 
 Art. 11. What is the most proper or scriptural mode of 
 ordaining an elder or bishop — by the voice of the church, 
 over whom the elder is to be ordained, or by the wish or 
 declaration of the elders or bishops of neighboring churches ? 
 Answered by referring to the minutes of 1851, Art. 6. 
 
 Art. 12. Could there not much good be done in the no- 
 ble work of spreading the gospel by advising such breth- 
 ren wishing to emigrate westward to locate themselves 
 where they are most needed ? Considered, that w T e can do 
 no more but recommend to brethren-teachers moving to the 
 West, to take this into serious consideration. 
 
 Art. 13. Could not the brethren adopt a plan to hold the 
 Yearly Meetings in such a manner that public preaching 
 might be held in the neighborhood around, and not at the 
 place for council ? Concluded, to make no change for the 
 present. 
 
 Art. 14. Ho.jv is it considered for a man, who is a brother, 
 to purchase a man or woman that is a slave, upon condition 
 that such slave shall be free, or emancipated, after serving 
 the purchaser a certain number of years, agreed upon 
 by the slave and his purchaser, without consulting the 
 church? Considered, that no brother should do so with- 
 out the counsel of the church ; and we believe the better 
 way would be to have nothing at all to do with slavery in 
 no shape or form whatever. 
 
17- MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 15. How would the brethren hold a teacher that 
 had preached that there was no such a being as a devil, and 
 that there was no serpent that beguiled Eve in the garden 
 of Eden ; that it was only the lust that tempted her, and 
 every one ; but, after being admonished, promised not to 
 teach nor argue said doctrine, yet still harbors the same be- 
 lief? Considered, that such teacher was admonished right, 
 that he should not preach such doctrine ; and if he should 
 still persist in holding such sentiments, the brethren could 
 not hold him as a teacher, or even as a member. He should 
 be admonished to search the Scriptures, which are able to 
 make him wise unto salvation. 
 
 Art. 16. Concerning going to law. Considered, that it 
 should be left as it was decided last year. (See Minutes of 
 1852, Art. 3). 
 
 Art. 17. Concerning going to political meetings and elec- 
 tions. Considered best not to attend any such at all, inas- 
 much as the true Christian belongs to another kingdom. 
 
 Art. 18. Concerning brethren going security for dealers 
 in ardent spirits, in getting their license to sell the same. 
 Considered, that brethren should by no means do so. 
 
 Art. 19. Concerning brethren purchasing and drawing 
 lottery-tickets. Considered, that brethren should not have 
 any thing at all to do with this, or any other species of 
 gambling. 
 
 Art. 20. Whether brethren should observe days ot fast- 
 ing, appointed by the President of the United States, or 
 the governors of the respective states in which we live? 
 Considered, that brethren should pray always, and not faint, 
 and also to fast as often as practicable. But, considering 
 Rom. xiii. 1-7, and also xiv. 5, 6, it should be left optional 
 with the churches and members to observe such days, or 
 not, as they are " full}' persuaded in their own minds." 
 
 Art. 21. Have we a right to put away the lamb at the 
 Lord's Supper, and use beef in the place thereof? Con- 
 sidered, that we would rather see a lamb»prepared ; but in- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 173 
 
 asmuch as Christ has made us free from the ceremonial law, 
 and as there is no command in the New Testament that it 
 must be so, we should bear with each other in love in such 
 matters. 
 
 Art. 22. In case a brother would be seen in a trespass 
 against the gospel by one brother, at one day, and in a sim- 
 ilar one by another brother the next day, and again in a 
 like trespass by a third brother at another time, whether 
 these three witnesses are sufficient to establish the trespass? 
 Considered, that the testimony is sufficient to convict the 
 brother, and that he should be dealt with according to the 
 gospel. 
 
 Art. 23. Does the answer to the tenth query, as it stands 
 on the minutes of 18-46, only forbid the grandeur of paint- 
 ings and carpets, or does it forbid them altogether? "We 
 consider the advice of our brethren in 1846 sufficiently clear. 
 
 Art. 24. Is it right to give a certificate to a brother, when 
 he moves out of the church district without paying his 
 debts, or giving general satisfaction to his creditors ? Con- 
 sidered, that if the church is satisfied of the brother's hav- 
 ing been honest, and having done all that he could to pay 
 his debts and satisfy his creditors, he ought to have a cer- 
 tificate. But should the brother be able, and not willing to 
 pay his debts, or give, or try to give, satisfaction to his 
 creditors, he should by no means have a certificate of full 
 membership in the church. 
 
 Art. 25. How is it considered, when brethren hold prayer- 
 meetings decently and in order? Considered, that every 
 brother should meet daily with his family, for worship in 
 his own house; that when brethren meet together, accident- 
 ally or by appointment, they are at perfect liberty to sing 
 and pray together, read the Scriptures, and exhort each 
 other, all of which should be done decently and in order; 
 but we would advise our brethren to drop the name of 
 prayer-meeting, and call them simply meetings. 
 
 Art. 28. How one arm of the church shall proceed to- 
 
174 MINUTES OF 
 
 ward another, in case of a departure from the general order 
 of the church ? Considered, that inasmuch as all the arms 
 of the church are but one body in Christ, and each arm 
 stands in the same relation to the other as an individual 
 member stands to the other individual member; and inas- 
 much as an individual is not only at liberty, but commanded 
 to go to his brother, if that brother has done something 
 by which he considers himself grieved, in order to gain his 
 brother to an arm of the church, feeling aggrieved at pro- 
 ceedings in and by another arm, has not only a right, but 
 also a solemn duty to do likewise, and to do it either by 
 going or writing to such arm. 
 
 Art. 27. "Whether it is allowed for brethren to distill fruit, 
 or get it distilled, and sell the liquor ? We say, No, not at all. 
 
 Art. 28. Is it right for a brother to go to college, or teach 
 the same ? ( Considered, that we would deem colleges a very 
 unsafe place for a simple follower of Christ, inasmuch as 
 they are calculated to lead us astray from the faith and 
 obedience to the gospel. 
 
 Art. 29. Is it in accordance with the gospel for brethren 
 to go to the county and state fairs, exhibiting property, or 
 otherwise taking part in the same? Considered, as quite 
 unbecoming and improper for pilgrims being found there. 
 We should remember poor Christian at Vanity Fair. 
 
 Art. 80. How is it considered when brethren preach a 
 doctrine, which is not in accordance with the decision of 
 the Yearly Meeting, and speak privately to or with mem- 
 bers against such decisions ? Considered, that for love and 
 union sake they ought not to do so. 
 
 Art. 31. Can a brother be judged by testimony from 
 without the church, if he denies the charge? Considered, 
 that he can not. (See Minutes of 1837, Art, 2). 
 
 Art. 32. When an ordained brother sues, or causes to be 
 sued, a brother in an adjoining church, where is the case to 
 be investigated? Considered, that it is to be investigated 
 in the church where the ordained brother lives. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 175 
 
 . Art. 33. Is it right to discuss moral questions in our 
 meeting-houses ? Considered, that our brethren had better 
 keep the houses, built for the worship of God, exclusively 
 for that special purpose. 
 
 Art. 3-1. How is it considered when a brother goes to 
 law, in order to collect money due to him, and other breth- 
 ren justify him in it, and even speakers can see no wrong 
 in it, and are opposed to having it brought before the church? 
 Considered, that it is not in accordance with the gospel to 
 make use of the law to collect money, and that it is wrong 
 for brethren to justify it, and still more wrong for speakers 
 to oppose its being brought before the church. 
 
 Art. 33. How is it considered when churches, having no 
 overseer, call upon those old brethren, who have an over- 
 sight over them, to come and assist them in weighty mat- 
 ters, and they do not attend? Considered, that such elders 
 ought to attend, and if they do not, the church may call on 
 other elders to assist them. (See Minutes of 1852, Art. 9). 
 
 Art. 36. How is it considered when a brother, at a love- 
 feast, or meeting where dinners are given, having been at 
 the first table, where a blessing was asked, and thanks re- 
 turned orderly, afterward rises, and returns thanks at the 
 second or third table ? Considered, that it had better not 
 been done 
 
 Art. 37. As regards testimony between members, where 
 two of the brethren's children testify in the same case, but 
 contradict each other; the one brother's child being a mem- 
 ber, the other not, but of good moral character. Consid- 
 ered, that all other things being equal, we take the testi- 
 mony of a brother or member. 
 
 Art. 38. Is a church justifiable in expelling a member 
 for the crime of drunkenness, so long as members generally 
 continue in the custom, whereby men are made drunkards ? 
 Considered, as drunkenness comes directly from moderate 
 drinking, therefore every church should keep the advice of 
 the Yearly Meeting, to use no intoxicating drinks as a bev- 
 
176 MINUTES OF 
 
 erage, and then they can consistently disown the brother. 
 
 Art. 39. "Would it not be more consistent with the gos- 
 pel, and the practice of the apostles, to extend the kiss, 
 termed the holy kiss and the kiss of charity, to each other 
 only when coming together and separating from each other, 
 and not at feet-washing and the communion ; or did our 
 Lord and Master indeed institute such a thing in that night 
 in which he was betrayed?^ Considered, that we feel per- 
 fect liberty in the gospel, to continue as we always hereto- 
 fore have done. 
 
 { Art. 40. Report from Jonathan's Creek Church, in Ohio, 
 and repeated request for a new committee. Request 
 granted; and Brethren Geo. Shively, from Stark County, 
 John Shoemaker, of Mohegan, John P. Ebersole, of Seneca, 
 John" Molsbaugh, of Knox, Jacob Kurtz, of Wayne, and 
 Henry Davy, of Delaware County, Ohio, appointed to be 
 said committee. 
 
 Art. 41. Whether, in holding a choice for a teacher, after 
 taking the voice of the church, there ought not to bo lots 
 cast between the two highest? Considered, that the prac- 
 tice of the church, generally, is to receive him who has the 
 highest number of voices. 
 
 Art. 42. If a person makes application to be received 
 into the church, and believes that the wicked will be totally 
 burned up, can he be received with that faith or not? Con- 
 sidered, that T persons should," in the first place, be taught 
 the principles of the gospel, and„theirbe baptized_on his 
 faith, showing forth fruits of repentance. 
 
 Art. 43. Concerning anointing the sick with oil. Con- 
 sidered, that it should be administered according to the 
 manner laid down by the brethren in the minutes of 1844, 
 to be re-printed now again, if there is room left. 
 
 Art. 44.^1Iow it is considered when choices are held for 
 teachers or deacons, in a different manner from the general 
 usage, choosing by ballot, in presence of all the church, 
 and without ordained elders from other churches being 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 177 
 
 present ? Considered, that a choice should be held by each 
 and every member coming before the elders, and giving 
 their voice privately. The presence of two, or at least one 
 ordained elder, from another church, has been deemed 
 necessary always, so as to avoid the least appearance of 
 partiality, etc. 
 
 Art. 45. Inasmuch as there had been a difference in the 
 form of words, in administering baptism, settled and 
 brought to a union some years ago, could we not, also, come 
 to a full union and agreement with regard to feet-washing, 
 the Lord's Supper, etc., so that a member from one section 
 would find in every other section the same celebration, in 
 manner and form, as at home ? Considered, to refer this 
 to the next Yearly Meeting. 
 
 Art. 46. Concerning the place of our next Yearly Meet- 
 ing, invitations had been sent in from our brethren in Ash- 
 land County, Ohio, for next year, and from Aughwick 
 Church, Pennsylvania, for the year after next. It was,, 
 therefore, concluded that the Yearly Meeting, on Pentecost, 
 1854, is to take place, God willing, with our beloved breth- 
 ren in Ashland County, Ohio, and, if the request be re- 
 peated, the year after next with our loving brethren on 
 Aughwick, Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania. 
 
 Brethren coming to Yearly Meeting with no other object 
 than this, will bear in mind, that in order to lessen the 
 burden of the Yearly Meeting to the church where it is 
 held, it has been agreed upon, two years ago, not to meet 
 before Sunday morning, and that it is consequently not 
 necessary to arrive in the neighborhood before Saturday 
 evening. 
 
 As to the Yearly Meeting next year, in Ashland County, 
 it was stated by Bro. Elias Dicky, that brethren from the 
 East, coming by railroad, should stop at AVooster, and 
 brethren from the West, at Mansfield, whence the brethren 
 of Ashland will make arrangements to have them conveyed 
 to the place of meeting. Necessary written communica- 
 12 
 
178 MINUTES OF 
 
 tions will be attended to, by addressing them to Elias Dicky, 
 Ashland, Ohio. 
 
 In conclusion, all united once more in prayer and praises 
 to God for the assistance granted to go through the labors 
 of this Yearly Meeting, asking pardon for all that was 
 amiss, and commending ourselves, with all the churches of 
 the living God, to his care and protection. 
 
 Signed, in behalf of the meeting, by the committee of 
 elders — Geo. Hook, Daniel Miller, Elias Dicky, of Ohio; 
 Benj. Bowman, David Miller, of Indiana; Joseph Emmert, 
 of Illinois; Benjamin Bowman, John Kline, of Virginia; 
 Christ. Longenecker, Peter Long, of Pennsylvania ; Jacob 
 Leathermau, Jacob Sayler, of Maryland. 
 
 A true record. 
 
 Henry Kurtz, Clerk. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1854. 
 
 Having again been permitted, through the mercy of 
 God, to meet in general council, on Monday morning the 
 meeting was organized by appointing a standing committee 
 of twelve ordained eiders — two from each state (Pennsyl- 
 vania, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois) 
 represented, and a clerk, who, having retired to a private 
 room, received the messengers and papers sent from the 
 different churches. Churches represented, 107, by 36 or- 
 dained elders, 58 ministers in the second, and 21 in the 
 first degree ; 40 deacons, and 15 private members. Ten 
 committees were nominated to examine the papers, and 
 report theron to the meeting, and on Tuesday morning the 
 council commenced. 
 
 The following queries were reported and disposed of, in 
 the fear of the Lord : 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OP THE BRETHREN. 179 
 
 Article 1. Report of the committee appointed last year 
 on the subject of slavery. (See Minutes of 1853, Art. 9.) 
 The question having been, "How shall any branch of the 
 church proceed in case an individual wishes to become a 
 member who is in possession of slaves, and the law of the 
 state in which they live is such that they can not manumit 
 them in safety, without transporting them beyond its lim- 
 its?" 
 
 "Agreeable to the ninth query of Yearly Meetiug of 
 1853, concerning slavery, the committee appointed to report 
 the same have had this subject under serious consideration, 
 in the fear of the Lord, and do report as follows : 
 
 "First, Under no circumstances can slavery be admitted 
 into the church. 
 
 " Second, In all cases where a holder of a slave or slaves 
 wishes to become a member in the church, he be required 
 to manumit all his slaves before baptism, upon the following 
 conditions : The males to go out free at the age of twenty- 
 one, and the females at the age of eighteen years. All 
 those over and above these ages, when manumitted, are to 
 be paid by their former owner such a sum, either in money 
 or goods, as may be judged right by the church in which 
 the case may occur, and which is considered as the best 
 judge, being acquainted with all the circumstances — as a 
 compensation for their services over age. This will enable 
 the manumitted to migrate to a land of liberty, and will 
 relieve the conscience of the liberator from the burden of 
 taking with him to the bar of God the wages of oppres- 
 sion." 
 
 This report was adopted, after a lengthy discussion by 
 the meeting. 
 
 Art. 2. "Whether it is contrary to the gospel for brethren 
 to lay out towns? Considered, that it is not, but that we 
 would at the same time caution our brethren against all 
 schemes of extravagant speculation. 
 
 Art. 3. Is it agreeable to the gospel for a brother to give 
 
180 MIHUTES .7 
 
 ground for meeting-houses to such that do not preach the 
 . - el in its purity ; and if not, how is he to be dealt with ? 
 Considered, as positively inconsistent with the gospel, as 
 appears from the following testimonies : II. John 10, 11 ; 
 Eph. v. 11 : II. Cor. vi. 14-1 S. And as regards the man- 
 ner of dealing with such, we recommend that they should 
 be admonished, and required to make acknowledgment. 
 
 Art. 1. Bro. Samuel Lehman was nominated as agent 
 for the Garber legacy in northern Illinois, in place of 
 Joseph Emmert, resigned. Approved. 
 
 Art. 5. Bro. Daniel Miller, of Preble County, Ohio, was 
 nominated as agent for the same fund in southwestern Ohio, 
 in place of John Brower, resigned. Also approved. 
 
 Art. 6. Itequest of our brethren in northern Illinois for 
 the Yearly Meeting in 1856. Postponed till the other 
 
 -^.:ess is disposed of. 
 
 Art. 7. Can a person be reinstated into the church after 
 having been excluded for immoral conduct, when he holds 
 the opinion that the sisters have no voice in church-council ? 
 Considered, better not receive such, as long as they enter- 
 tain views contrary to the order of the church. 
 
 Art. 8. Is it expedient for a laboring brother to give 
 ty to a private brother to exhort or bear testimony at 
 public worship 2 Considered, as not advisable, and breth- 
 ren should be cautious not to offend the church by showing 
 partiality to individual members. 
 
 Art. 0. If a brother is disowned in one church, and 
 38 to another at a distance, and there desires to be 
 received again, showing symptoms of repentance, acknowl- 
 edging his fault, and being willing to make reparation as 
 soon as he is able ; this being made known to the church 
 from whence he came, repeatedly, but nothing is done, nor 
 i.svrer given by said church — can he be received under 
 such circumstances by the church where he lives, or not? 
 Considered, according to II. Cor. n. 6-8, that the church, 
 where a fault has been committed, should act and answer 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. ±81 
 
 the church where the disowned member lives, without delay. 
 
 Art. 10. As there is some difference of opinion respect- 
 ing John xin. 5, the question arises, whether one and the 
 same member shall perform the double act of washing and 
 wiping the saints' feet? Considered, in the same light as 
 it was in 1849 (Art. 39), that the manner of feet-washing 
 could not be amended, inasmuch as the command is fully 
 obeyed in the way we observe it. 
 
 Art. 11. If one or more churches would so choose to 
 come together in the evening to observe the ordinances of 
 the house of God, as delivered unto lis by the Savior, and 
 continue public worship next day, believing that thereby 
 some of the evils might be obviated, which too often ac- 
 company our love-feasts, would it be considered a depart- 
 ure from the "Word ? Considered, No ; but at the same 
 time we would advise, that the churches should be careful 
 to observe the ordinances of the Lord, at the proper time 
 and in due order, and to avoid all unnecessary changes. 
 
 Art. 12. When a man who says he is very near the 
 brethren, but yet finds fault with them, comes and wants 
 to hold meetings among us, what shall we do with him 
 and with such brethren who go with and encourage such ? 
 Considered, that we ought not to receive such as min- 
 isters, and brethren who encourage them should be ad- 
 monished, as those who do not walk consistently with 
 the gospel. "A house divided against itself can not stand." 
 
 Art. 13. In case a leading brother in the ministry (or- 
 dained or not ordained) would be reported as having com- 
 mitted a gross public fault, and the ordained brethren of an 
 adjoining congregation, at the request of some of the 
 members of the church where the fault has been committed; 
 call a council in that church and investigate the matter; 
 have these ordained brethren done right? Considered, 
 that in such case, those ordained brethren would have done 
 right, inasmuch as the individual church is, however large 
 it may be, only a branch or member of the body of Christ, 
 
182 MINUTES OF 
 
 and inasmuch as it is the duty of ordained elders to take 
 care of every branch of that body, especially when the 
 leading member is sick or unfaithful. 
 
 Art. 14. Is it consistent with the example and doctrine 
 of Christ and his apostles, when brethren write and publish 
 books, and afterward revise and republish them, etc.? 
 Considered, that brethren should be careful in their publi- 
 cations, and especially of other men's books. 
 
 Art. 15. A request for the Yearly Meeting in 1857 to be 
 held in the church in Washington County, Maryland. 
 This invitation will be considered in due time. 
 
 Art. 16. Is it allowed by the gospel for a sister, after her 
 husband is dead, to be married to her step-son? Consid- 
 ered, not allowed according to the following passages : 
 I. Cor. v. 1 ; Levit. xvm. 8. Churches should be watchful 
 to purge out such a leaven from among them. 
 
 Art. 17. A request for a committee to visit Upper Con- 
 owago Church, Pennsylvania. Granted, and Brethren 
 Jacob Sayler, of Maryland, William Boyers, of Franklin, 
 John Berkley, of Somerset, Isaac Meyers, of Union, and 
 Jacob Hollinger, of Dauphin Counties, all in Pennsylvania, 
 nominated as such committee. 
 
 Art. 18. Would it be more in accordance with the gos- 
 pel to hold our love-feasts on Thursday, before Easter? 
 Considered, that the gospel does not bind us to any par- 
 ticular day. 
 
 Art. 19. How will it be considered if a brother, serving 
 in the office of a deacon, does not let his beard grow, and 
 when admonished, opposes, and asks Scripture on that 
 question ? Considered, that the brethren should bear and 
 forbear in love, and give him the best Scripture ground they 
 can. 
 
 Art. 20. Is it not the duty of each church to keep their 
 poor, and not let them become a county-charge, or, is it 
 right to send a brother to the poor-house at the expense 
 of the county? Considered, that this question was fully 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 183 
 
 and correctly answered in 1851 and 1852. (See Minutes 
 of 1851, Art. 20, and of 1852, Art. 18.) 
 
 Art. 21. A request for the next Annual Meeting, in 
 1855, by the church on Aughwick, Huntingdon County, 
 Pennsylvania. Will be considered hereafter. 
 
 Art. 22. A request that the oldest bishop choose or 
 appoint twelve brethren to hold a communion or love-feast 
 at the time (and place) of Yearly Meeting, as a model, to 
 show us the right order, according to the gospel. Consid- 
 ered, that Christ with his apostles, in that doleful night 
 when he (the Savior) was betrayed, has given a model, and 
 showed us the right order. 
 
 Art. 23. A request to reconsider query 3 on the Minutes 
 of 1853, which reads thus: "Have we a right to help making 
 the political government, and to serve as officers ; also to 
 put the law in force against any of our fellow-men in any 
 case whatever ? Considered, that this query was sufficiently 
 and correctly answered in 1852. (See Rom. vi. 16, x. 1-3; 
 II. Tet. I. 19, ii. 19 ; I. John in. 8, 9 ; Matt. vi. 24; II. Cor. 
 vi. 5-8 ; John xvni. 36.) 
 
 Art. 24. Is it more in unison' with the gospel to use 
 lamb at our love-feasts instead of beef? Considered, this 
 query to be answered by the 21st article of the Minutes 
 of 1853. 
 
 Art. 25. Whether the 29th article of the Minutes of 
 1852 should not be readopted ? Considered, to let it re- 
 main as decided last year (Art. 2), with the understanding 
 that each query should be written on a separate paper. 
 
 Art. 26. A request from Coventry Church, Chester 
 County, Pennsylvania, for a committee to examine griev- 
 ances and difficulties there existing. The request granted, 
 and the following brethren appointed : Dan. P. Sayler and 
 Philip Boyle, of Maryland ; John* Kline, of Virginia, and 
 Samuel Harley, Jacob Wenger, and Christian Longenecker, 
 of Pennsylvania. 
 
 Art. 27. A'similar request for a committee to visit Lower 
 
184 MINUTES OF 
 
 Cumberland Church, in Pennsylvania. Also granted, and 
 Brethren Isaac Pfoutz, of Maryland ; Samuel Miller, Peter 
 Long, Andrew Spanogle, and David Bosserman, all of 
 Pennsylvania, nominated for this committee. 
 
 Art. 28. A letter from Fulton County, Illinois, to be 
 answered by the standing committee, which was done, 
 approving of their proceedings. 
 
 Finally, was considered the question about the next 
 Yearly Meeting — there having been sent in a request for 
 the Yearly Meeting in 1855 by our brethren on Aughwick, 
 Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania ; another for the Yearly 
 Meeting in 1856 by our brethren in northwestern Illinois, 
 and another for the Yearly Meeting in 1857 by our brethren 
 in Washington County, Maryland. Hence it was con- 
 clude 1, that our next Yearly Meeting should be held, God 
 willing, with the Aughwick congregation, Huntingdon 
 County, Pennsylvania, on Pentecost, 1855, and the requests 
 for the succeeding years be put on record, so that if the 
 invitations should be repeated, and no more pressing claim 
 should intervene, they may stand first for future consider- 
 ation. 
 
 With regard to our next Annual Meeting on Aughwick, 
 it was stated by letter from our dear brother, Andrew 
 Spanogle, that it will be held at their meeting-house; that 
 the nearest station on the railroad is Mount Union, from 
 whence it is seven miles to the meeting-house, and to Bro. 
 Samuel Lutz, who lives near it. Letters addressed to 
 Elder Andrew Spanogle, Shirleysburg, Huntingdon County, 
 Pennsylvania, will be attended to. 
 
 Signed in behalf of the meeting and the standing com- 
 mittee of elders: George Hoke, George Shively, of Ohio; 
 John Kline, Joseph Arnold, of Virginia; Philip Boyle, 
 Ban. P. Sayler, of Maryland; C. Longenecker, John Berk- 
 ley, of Pennsylvania ; Jacob Miller, George Hoover, of 
 Indiana; Joseph Emmert, Christian Long, of Illinois. 
 
 Henry Kurtz, Clerk. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 185 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1855. 
 
 After public worship, held on Lord's-day before, the 
 council-meeting was commenced on Monday morning, by 
 singing and prayer, and making the necessary statements. 
 The meeting was organized by appointing a standing com- 
 mittee of thirteen elders, with two clerks, and one hundred 
 and ten brethren were representing the churches, who were 
 divided into ten committees, to examine and report on the 
 papers sent in. On Tuesday morning most of the commit- 
 tees were ready to report, and the following queries were 
 proposed and answered in the fear of the Lord : 
 
 Articlh 1. A request for a committee to visit Sugar 
 Creek congregation, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Granted, 
 and Brethren Joseph Showalter, John Shoemaker, Elias 
 Dicky, John Molsbaugh, and Jacob Kurtz, appointed for 
 this visit. 
 
 Art. 2. How is it considered, if a young brother and sis- 
 ter want to marry each other, and being opposed by their 
 parents (members, too), accomplish their design so late as 
 to bring reproach upon themselves and the church? Con- 
 sidered, that the young members should be dealt with ac- 
 cording to the circumstances, so as to prove that the church 
 is not participating in evil, and that the parents should also 
 be admonished, if the church finds them in error. 
 
 Art. 3. How is it considered, if a brother, or brethren, 
 belong to the party so-called " Know-Nothings," and take 
 an active part in it, trying to persuade brethren to join said 
 party? Considered, that no brother, who is a member of 
 the so-called Know-Nothings, or any other secret society, 
 can be a member of our communion. 
 
 Art. 4. Hath a brother a right to defend himself with a 
 deadly weapon at the appearance of being in danger? 
 Considered, he hath not, inasmuch as the Savior says to 
 Peter: " Put up thy sword into his place; for all they that 
 
186 MINUTES OF 
 
 take the sword, shall perish with the sword." Matt. xxvi. 52. 
 
 Art. 5. Renewal of the invitation from the church in 
 Washington County, Maryland, for the Annual Meeting in 
 1857. Considered, that they are entitled to it, provided 
 the invitation is renewed next year. 
 
 Art. 6. Is it consistent with the gospel to receive persons 
 into the church with hand and kiss, when circumstances 
 will not permit baptism to be performed ? Considered, that 
 it is not according to the gospel to consider persons as 
 members of the church without baptism ; yet they should 
 be encouraged, and, if they wish it, their cases may be taken 
 into consideration by the church, in council, and they be 
 received as candidates for baptism, which is to be performed 
 as soon as circumstances will permit. 
 
 Art. 7. How it would be considered, if a brotuer obtains 
 a patent for any invention? Considered, that it would be 
 safest, in all cases, first to ask counsel of the church before 
 obtaining a patent. 
 
 Art. 8. "Whether it is agreeable with the word of God to 
 erect tombstones ? Considered, that it would not agree with 
 the principles of the gospel, such as humility, non-conform- 
 ity to the world, etc., to erect large and expensive tomb- 
 stones. 
 
 Art. 9. What course is the churcn to pursue with mem- 
 bers, and even speakers, who say they can not see, with the 
 brethren, that the pardon of sin, and the reception of the 
 Holy Spirit, follow baptism, believing and contending that 
 many do experience the pardon of sin and receive the Holy 
 Spirit before baptism, when such brethren have been ad- 
 monished, again and again, that they should not contend 
 for, or preach, such doctrine; but after all the admonitions 
 and labor to convince them of their error from the Script- 
 ures, which they will acknowledge, and then turn right 
 about and contend for the same old thing, thereby wound- 
 ing the feelings of the brethren, etc.? Considered, that we 
 should bear with one another's private opinion in love, but 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 187 
 
 ought to be united in word and sentiment as regards " the 
 common salvation" (Jude in.), and ought to speak the 
 same thing ; that is to sa3 T , the plain, simple, word of God, 
 and earnestly and unitedly contend for the faith once de- 
 livered unto the saints, and that a doctrine contrary to the 
 common plan of salvation should not be preached or con- 
 tended for; but if done, and the brother is admonished ac- 
 cording to the gospel, and he will not hear, we would have 
 to proceed according to Matt, xviii. However, it was rec- 
 ommended to use all possible leniency, long-suffering, and 
 forbearance in such a case. 
 
 Art. 10. How is a church to proceed with members, who 
 were disowned because the brother married a sister who 
 was married before to a man (not a brother), and was di- 
 vorced from him on account of him committing adultery, 
 but who has since died ? Considered, if the church is sat- 
 isfied of the former husband's death, and with the repent- 
 ance of the brother and sister, they may be received again. 
 
 Art. 11. Is a speaker allowed to take any amount of 
 money for marrying that may be offered him, and if so, 
 how much? Referred to Art. 9 of the Yearly Meeting in 
 "Wayne County, Ohio, 1848, which reads thus: "Consid- 
 ered, that this meeting can not advise brethren to take a 
 fee, and would leave it, as a matter of conscience, to the 
 ministering brother, with the advice of the church in which 
 he lives." 
 
 Art. 12. How is it considered when members leave at 
 council-meeting, before it is nearly out, in order to attend 
 another religious meeting (not of our brethren), and when 
 other members do not attend council-meeting at all ? Con- 
 sidered, that all members should be punctual to attend 
 council-meetings, and remember the apostle's admonition 
 (Heb. x. 25): "Xot forsaking the assembling of ourselves 
 together, as the manner of some is;" and such as would 
 leave council-meetings, for no other cause than above men- 
 tioned, should be earnestly reminded that " God is not the 
 
188 MINUTES OF 
 
 author of confusion." I. Cor. xiv. 33. In conclusion, it 
 was deemed proper to admonish our dear brethren and sis- 
 ters to observe that order and decency, in attending our 
 council-meetings, as in all other cases, as the Word teaches 
 us. I. Cor. xiv. 40. 
 
 Art. 13. A request for a committee to visit the church 
 in Tulpehaccon, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. Granted, 
 and Elders Samuel Harley, Jacob Wenger, Jacob Hollinger, 
 Samuel Miller, and David Gerlach, appointed. 
 
 Art. 14. Is it conforming with the world to build meet- 
 ing-houses? Answer: No, if built without unnecessary 
 ornaments, and only for the worship of God. 
 
 Art. 15. How is it considered, if a member is taken to 
 the Lunatic Asylum by the children, that are not members ; 
 is it the duty of the church to pay the expenses? Consid- 
 ered, that the church is not bound to pay any debts but 
 those which it contracts. 
 
 Art. 16. A private letter requesting a committee to set- 
 tle difficulties in Mahoning Church, Ohio. Privately an- 
 swered by the committee. 
 
 Art. 17. If two brethren were chosen, at one and the 
 same time, as ministers in the first degree, and some time 
 afterward advanced together to the second degree, and in 
 course of time the church is in need of an overseer or 
 bishop, can those two brethren both be ordained as such, or 
 only one? Considered, that in such a case both brethren 
 may be ordained, provided there be no sufficient cause 
 known to prevent it. 
 
 Art. 18. In case a young sister, being deceived by prom- 
 ises of marriage, and is left afterward, in shame and dis- 
 tress, by her deceiver, can she be retained as a member, if 
 she shows repentance, etc.? This question might be an- 
 swered with a question of the apostle (I. Cor. v. (3) : "Know 
 ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? " and 
 it was considered, that such a sister should be expelled, un- 
 til she comes and makes humble and public acknowledg- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 189 
 
 merit of her error before the church, and affords ample 
 proof of sincere penitence. 
 
 Art. 19. What to do with a person wishing to become a 
 member, and confessing to be a Freemason, yet not willing 
 to renounce it? Considered, that no person could, or 
 should, be admitted into the church, unless he shall pre- 
 viously renounce all connection whatever with Freemasonry, 
 or any and every other secret society, with which he may 
 have been connected. 
 
 Art. 20. What is the advice of the General Council to 
 individual members, say four, five, or more, who can not 
 commune with the church because they have beef instead 
 of a lamb at their love-feast? Considered as good advice 
 for such members to submit to the order of the church 
 where they live, and to reflect on the admonition of the 
 apostle (Col. n. 16, 17) : " Let no man, therefore, judge you, 
 in meat or in drink," etc., "which are a shadow of things 
 to come; but the body is of Christ." Again, to learn of 
 his example (Phil. iv. 11), where he says: "For I have 
 learned, in whatsoever state I am [with whomsoever I am, 
 according to the German translation] therewith to be con- 
 tent." 
 
 Art. 21. Is it according to the gospel, at the close of our 
 meetings, to sing a hymn, and invite mourners to cojne for- 
 ward, and if none will come, to sing another hymn, and 
 give another invitation, and lastly, to tell the congregation 
 to rise on their feet, and, with raised hand, speak a bless- 
 ing over the people ? Considered, that this is not agreea- 
 ble with the gospel, and should not be done. 
 
 Art. 22. Request for the Yearly Meeting of 1858 from 
 the brethren in Wabash Valley, Indiana. The invitation 
 gratefully accepted, and may be granted, God willing, if 
 repeated. 
 
 Art. 23. How it is considered, if a church, having no or- 
 dained elder, has a case of gross sin, such as is described in 
 I. Cor. v. 11, and application is made to ordained elders to 
 
190 MINUTES OF 
 
 assist them, the elders making an appointment, and failing 
 to attend ; has the church a right to put such members 
 back, or ought the church to hold such transgressors as full 
 members, until they can get ordained elders ? Considered, 
 that the church may, and ought, to put them back provis- 
 ionally, when the crime is sufficiently proven, until ordained 
 elders can attend. 
 
 Art. 24. If two brethren, or members, should raise a 
 quarrel, before or in presence of others, so as nearly to 
 come in bodily conflict, or to fight, can such matter be set- 
 tled between those members, or ought it to be brought be- 
 fore the church? Considered, that such public crimes 
 must be settled before and by the church. 
 
 Art. 25. Concerning the difference in the time of com- 
 ing together for holding love-feasts; does it not appear as 
 if there was a division or disunion among us, when some 
 churches meet and have public worship (according to an- 
 cient order of the brethren) in the forenoon, others at one, 
 two, or three o'clock, and again others in the evening, about 
 the time when the exercises immediately connected with 
 the Lord's Supper should begin? Could there not a uni- 
 form practice be adopted in this, as it used to be among the 
 brethren in by-gone years ? Considered, to be left to the 
 consideration of the churches, and to let them decide when 
 their love-feasts are to be held. 
 
 Art. 26. How is it considered best to do with a brother, 
 or brethren, that will not use the words, in administering 
 baptism, as it was decided at the Yearly Meeting, near 
 Wooster, Ohio, in 1848, " for the remission or forgiveness 
 of sin?" Considered, that the decision of said council 
 should be observed, as it was observed by many brethren 
 from time immemorial, and those brethren, who will not 
 submit to it, should be admonished, for love sake, and for 
 the "Word's, sake, to comply. 
 
 Art. 27. Would it not be right to hold a love-feast, after 
 all matters are settled, at the Yearly Meeting, inasmuch as 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 191 
 
 many of us will never see each other again (in this life), 
 and thus show, also, a pattern to all the brethren, how it 
 ought to be held? Considered it best to have no love-feast 
 at our Annual Meetings, as the number of people present 
 is so large. 
 
 Art. 28. How ought the church to hold a member, who 
 argues and contends that Christ was eating the Jewish 
 passover with his disciples, and at the same time the Jews 
 did eat it ; and also contends that it is not binding on the 
 followers of Christ to observe a supper, or any thing more 
 than the bread and wine, and that feet-washing ought to 
 be observed after eating, neither can be satisfied with the 
 brethren that preach otherwise ? Considered, that as it ap- 
 pears evident, from John xnr. 1-29; xix. 14; xviii. 28, that 
 Christ's Supper with his disciples was eaten before the Jew- 
 ish passover, and it appears, from a comparison of Mark 
 xiv. 20, and John xin. 26, that the supper recorded by 
 Mark, and that recorded by John, are the same. Again, 
 Luke calls the meal which Christ ate with his disciples, at 
 which he instituted the communion, a supper, and a com- 
 parison of Luke xxii. 23, and John xin. 25, will show that 
 they were the same. Now, as it appears plain that the sup- 
 per, in John xin., was before the Jewish passover, that of 
 Luke xxn. 20 was likewise before it, and, therefore, not the 
 passover itself. Further, from the Acts of the Apostles, 
 and from the epistles, we find that there was in the church 
 a feast of charity. (See Jude xn. ; I. Cor. v. 8 ; II. Peter n. 
 13; Acts xviii. 21). When we take all this evidence into 
 consideration, we think it is sufficient to satisfy every sin- 
 cere and candid mind, that those who want to adhere to the 
 practice of the church, in the times of the apostles, must 
 have a feast of charity; and those brethren who oppose 
 such a feast, oppose the gospel, and therefore should be ad- 
 monished. And concerning the washing of feet after the 
 communion, we would say, that it appears, from the read- 
 ing of the thirteenth chapter of John, that feet-washing 
 
192 MINUTES OF 
 
 was practiced before John leaned on the bosom of Christ 
 (see John xin. 23); but we find, from John xxi. 20, that 
 John leaned on the bosom of Christ at supper. Therefore, 
 feet-washing was performed by Christ before supper, and 
 certainly before the communion, as the communion was ad- 
 ministered after supper. 
 
 Art. 29. Request for a committee to Illinois, to confer 
 with the far-western brethren, or a committee of them, to 
 investigate the differences in doctrine and practice existing 
 between them and us, and report to the next Annual Meet- 
 ing. Granted, and Brethren Abraham Maas, Christian 
 Long, John Metzger, Samuel Lehman, James II. Tracey, 
 David Hardman, John Bowman, Daniel Frey, Daniel P. 
 Sayler, John H. Umstad, and James Quinter, appointed for 
 this business. 
 
 Art. 30. Bequest for advice, from our members in Oregon 
 Territory. Granted, by a letter signed by the standing 
 committee. 
 
 Art. 31. A request for a committee to visit the church 
 in Owen County, Indiana. Left over to Elder John Metz- 
 ger, to go there, with some more brethren (and at least one 
 more elder), to investigate the case. 
 
 Art. 32. Bequest for next Yearly Meeting repeated by 
 our brethren in northern Illinois. Upon this it was con- 
 cluded that our next Annual meeting shall take place, God 
 willing, with our beloved brethren in Illinois, at the place 
 of Bro. Michael Baber, in Stephenson County, on Pente- 
 cost, 1856. Xearest station on the railroad, Lena. Address 
 Elder Daniel Erey, Kent, Stephenson County, Illinois. 
 
 Art. 33. Bro. John H. Umstad was appointed as agent 
 for the receiving and distributing of Garber's legacy for 
 the poor east of Susquehanna, in place of Bro. Christian 
 Longenecker, deceased ; and Bro. Peter Long in the same 
 capacity for the west side of Susquehanna, in place of An- 
 drew Spanogle, resigned. 
 
 Signed in behalf of the standing committee — Geo. Hoke, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 193 
 
 John Molsbaugh, of Ohio; J. Leather-man, John Metzger, 
 of Indiana; Daniel Frey, of Illinois; John Kline, Daniel 
 Brower, of Virginia; Daniel P. Sayler, George Bear, of 
 Maryland ; Daniel Bollinger, John II. TJmstad, John Berk- 
 ley, Andrew Spanogle, of Pennsylvania. 
 
 Henry Kurtz, Clerk. 
 James Quinter, Assistant Clerk. 
 
 ANXUAL MEETING OF 1856. 
 
 As usual, there was public worship, not only on the 
 Lord's-day, but also before and after, as opportunity offered, 
 at different places. Monday morning the council-meeting 
 was opened, a standing committee nominated, and to this 
 the papers, etc., handed in, and distributed among ten 
 other committees. On Tuesday morning, after opening 
 the meeting with singing and prayer, the committees re- 
 ported the following points and queries, together with their 
 answers, which were then further considered, in the fear 
 of the Lord : 
 
 Article 1. "What is to be done, according to the gospel, 
 with brethren who take more than lawful interest, and are 
 not willing to be subject to the decision of the Annual 
 Meeting of 1826? The gospel directs the subjects of 
 Christ's kingdom to be subject to the laws of the land; 
 therefore no brother should take more than the law allows. 
 If he doth, he should be dealt with according to Matt, xviii., 
 and required to restore what has been taken unlawfully. 
 
 Art. 2. Is it proper for brethren to have their property 
 insured by insurance companies? Considered, to leave it 
 as the brethren made it in 1847 (Art. 11), but we would, in 
 addition, advise all brethren not to unite or bind themselves 
 with or to any company or society of this world. 
 13 
 
194 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 3. If members commit gross sins, such as fornica- 
 tion, etc., and there is no ordained brother in such district, 
 and the church sends to the nearest adjoining districts for 
 ordained brethren, who, with the full consent of the church, 
 place such members under the ban or avoidance, as the 
 apostle saith, " not to keep company, if any man that is 
 called a hrother be a fornicator," etc. (I. Cor. v. 11), and 
 afterward the oldest minister of such church turns round 
 and tells the members, and even those who were placed in 
 avoidance, that the brethren had no authority or right to 
 do so, and by so doing creates considerable uneasiness in 
 the church? Considered, that such a brother has done 
 wrong, and that he should be corrected. 
 
 Art. 4. How is it considered, when a church unitedly 
 agrees not to use ardent spirits, except for medical, mechan- 
 ical, or communion purpose, and a member of said church 
 will not comply with the above decision? Considered, 
 that such member should be dealt with as in other offenses. 
 
 Art. 5. Would it not be best in holding elections for the 
 purpose of choosing ministers or deacons, that none of the 
 ministering brethren of such district should take any part, 
 or even be in the room where the votes of the members 
 are received, but that brethren of other districts should be 
 called for said purpose ? Considered, that every member 
 should have an equal privilege of giving their voices, and 
 that the remainder of this query were best left to the con- 
 trol of the strange brethren. 
 
 Art. 6. A request by the Elk Creek Church, Somerset 
 County, Pennsylvania, for the Yearly Meeting in 1859. 
 Granted, provided the request be renewed, and Providence 
 will allow it. 
 
 Art. 7. A request by the church in Carroll County, Illi- 
 nois, for a committee to settle difficulties existing there. 
 Granted, and referred to the standing committee to make 
 the appointment. This appointment was made, and Breth- 
 ren Andrew Spanogle, Samuel Gerber, Daniel Frey, Joseph 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 195 
 
 Eminert, and Samuel Lehman, nominated for this business. 
 
 Art. 8. How is it considered, when a brother of another 
 district is solicited to preach a funeral and fails to attend, 
 and the brethren who reside in the district attend and 
 preach the funeral, and afterward the elder, who is a rela- 
 tive of the deceased, has the funeral preached over again ? 
 Considered, that elders ought to be careful not to wound 
 the feelings of their fellow-laborers by sending for others 
 to do their work over again. 
 
 Art. 9. How is it considered, where there is a church 
 with a bishop and two speakers, one authorized to baptize, 
 etc., and the other not, and a case of difficulty occurs be- 
 tween two members and is brought before the church, those 
 three ministers being present, but the two first, being rela- 
 tives to the parties, they authorize the third to attend to the 
 case and present it before the church; the question is, 
 Would it be considered legal? Considered legal. 
 
 Art. 10. Is it agreeable with the gospel to make public 
 collections at public meetings, before the world, for our 
 laboring brethren ? Considered not agreeable to the gos- 
 pel to hold such collections, before the world, for the above 
 purpose. 
 
 Art. 11. Is it becoming for a brother, especially an or- 
 dained brother, to have strings of bells on his horses, in 
 sleighing? Considered not becoming, unless where it is 
 required by law to prevent accidents, and can not be avoided. 
 
 Art. 12. If a brother is sued by a member of the world, 
 may he appear and show his cause ? If so, how far may 
 he proceed with the law? Considered, that he may; but 
 if judgment is given against him, he should proceed no 
 further. 
 
 Art. 13. If a brother is sued for an unpaid debt, and it 
 being out of his power to attend, yet judgment is given 
 against him, may he take an appeal to court for a greater 
 or less amount? Considered, that in such cases brethreu 
 have a right to a hearing to bring matters to light ; yet in 
 
196 MINUTES OF 
 
 all such cases brethren should ask counsel of the church to 
 avoid difficulties to which they might subject themselves 
 by taking their own course. 
 
 Art. 14. The committee appointed at last Annual Meet- 
 ing to visit and confer with the far "Western brethren, or a 
 committee of them, to investigate the differences in doc- 
 trine and practice existing between them and us, submitted 
 the following report : 
 
 "May 8, ,1856. "We, the brethren who constitute the 
 committee appointed by the German Baptist Church, at 
 our last Annual Meeting, to visit the Western brethren 
 who recognize Bro. George Wolfe, of Illinois, as their 
 bishop, by the grace and favor of God were permitted to 
 meet at their meeting-house, where we were received on 
 the most friendly and Christian-like terms, and after 
 different queries were proposed for our deliberation, the 
 three (or four) following being considered the most import- 
 ant, we proceed to make our report accordingly, as follows : 
 
 "First. The question concerning the reality of a devil 
 was considered, and after comparing opinions and sentiments 
 on the subject of the reality of such a being, and his na- 
 ture, we agreed upon the following view : That the Script- 
 ures recognize^a devil, or an evil spirit," that manifests 
 itself in the flesh. 
 
 "Second. On the doctrine of universal salvation, which 
 denies punishment hereafter, we cordially agreed with Bro. 
 Wolfe that all men shall receive hereafter according to the 
 deeds done in the body, whether they be good or bad. 
 
 "Third. On the subject of feet-washing, Bro. Wolfe is 
 firm in the opinion that one person should both wash and 
 wipe the feet of a number of brethren, and then another, 
 and so on, until all are washed ; but he is willing to con- 
 form to the practice of the brethren in general, when in 
 communion-meeting with them, and begs for forbearance 
 on the part of the brethren in' general, until they shall 
 all come to see alike. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 197 
 
 "Fourth. Bro. Wolfe is likewise strongly of the opinion 
 that no time should be spent between the eating of the 
 supper and the breaking of bread (the communion) but, 
 that the whole ceremony should be prosecuted without 
 intermission or delay. 
 
 "It is the sincere desire of Bro. Wolfe that, however 
 these sentiments may clash with the general practice of 
 the brethren, they may not be considered a sufficient cause 
 why they should not be received in communion and fellow- 
 ship with the brethren ; with which views we, the com- 
 mittee, unanimously agree, and present this our report to 
 the brethren in general council met, for their deliberation 
 and concurrence. 
 
 " Signed by David Hardman, J. II. Umstad, J. H. Tra- 
 •cey, A. Moss, John Metzger, S. Lehman, C. Long." 
 
 Art. 15. Can a brother, or one that calls himself one, 
 be a witness in church matters, without bringing a certifi- 
 cate of membership from the church whence he came? 
 Considered, that members should always have letters of 
 membership, or be known as full members. 
 
 Art. 16. A request for the Yearly Meeting in 1858 in 
 the Wabash Valley, Indiana. Granted, unless unforseen 
 providences should prevent it. 
 
 Art. 17. How far may brethren go in trading or trafic- 
 ing without transgressing the limits of the gospel, and 
 what is to be done with brethren who will not comply with 
 the counsel of the church in such cases? Regarding the 
 first point, considered dangerous, and brethren should not 
 engage in it; as to the latter point, see Matt. xvur. 17. 
 
 Art. 18. How are we to hold a brother and sister who 
 lived together tor some years in lawful matrimony, but not 
 very agreeably, and now they are separated — the brother 
 living with his children in Iowa, and the sister with her 
 friends in Ohio? The church or churches where such 
 members live should investigate the matter, and judge 
 
198 MINUTES OF 
 
 according to the gospel and the circumstances or facts in 
 the case, in the fear of the Lord. 
 
 Art. 19. "Would it not be nearer the Word to have the 
 supper prepared and on the table before commencing to 
 wash feet ? Referred to Minutes of 1849, Art. 19. 
 
 Art. 20. Is it the rule and order among the brethren to 
 forward a brother to baptize at the same time he is put in 
 the ministry ? Answer, No. 
 
 Art. 21. How is it considered, when a branch of a church 
 separates itself from the main body, forwards its ministers 
 without a bishop being present, and pretends to act inde- 
 pendent of the counsel of the church and the Yearly Meet- 
 ing ? Considered, that such proceedings are wrong, and 
 highly dangerous, so that love induces us to charge a com- 
 mittee to visit that church and branch. 
 
 Art. 22. A letter from Virginia urging that this Yearly 
 Meeting devise a plan how the church could fulfill the 
 command of the Savior (Matt. xvin. 19) more effectually, 
 so that the article 8, on our Minutes of 1852, shoud not re- 
 main a dead letter. This meeting recommends the subject 
 to the serious consideration of all the churches. 
 
 Art. 23. A proposal for forming districts of five, six, or 
 more adjoining churches, for the purpose of meeting jointly 
 at least once a year, settling difficulties, etc., and thus lessen- 
 ing the business of our general Yearly Meeting. We be- 
 lieve this plan to be a good one, if carried out in the fear 
 of the Lord. 
 
 Art. 24. If a man shall put away his wife for the cause 
 of fornication — procuring a bill of divorcement, and mar- 
 rying another — has he committed the sin of adultery, or 
 could he be received into the church, all the parties still 
 living, if he in all other respects brings forth fruits meet 
 for repentance? After a lengthy discussion, this matter 
 was referred to the next Yearly Meeting. 
 
 Art. 25. Would it be proper to reconsider the 7th query 
 of 1851, concerning the putting up of lightning-rods ? We 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 199 
 
 would not advise brethren to put up those rods, but that 
 the brethren should bear with one another in love in such 
 matters. 
 
 Art. 26. "Would it be proper to reconsider the 6th query 
 of 1848? Seeing it is admitted that sisters should wear a 
 covering, what should that covering be, according to the 
 gospel ? "We are satisfied, with our ancient brethren, that 
 the plain cap, worn by our dear aged sisters, is a covering, 
 as required by the scripture according to Paul. 
 
 Art. 17. Does Christian fellowship, according to the gos- 
 pel, forbid, or require, or leave it optional for brethren, 
 w T hen meeting in cities, towns, or at public gatherings, 
 when extending the salutation of the hand, to accompany 
 the same with the salutation of the holy kiss ? Considered, 
 optional. 
 
 Art. 28. A request from the church in Fayette County, 
 Pennsylvania, to have our dear brother, James Quinter, or- 
 dained for the office of an overseer at this Yearly Meeting. 
 Concluded, that inasmuch as this brother had not been able 
 to be present here, Brethren Joseph Showalter, of Stark, 
 and Henry Kurtz, of Mahoning, Ohio, be appointed as a 
 committee to attend to this business. 
 
 Art. 29. In relation to the brethren in Germany, it ap- 
 pears from all the documents and information presented to 
 us, that they differ from us on baptism, feet-washing, and 
 other points of faith and practice ; hence, until we have a 
 better evidence of their agreement with us in sentiment, 
 and of their willingness to receive the doctrine of Christ 
 as we have received it, we can not acknowledge them yet 
 as brethren of the same faith with us, and inasmuch as they 
 expressly refuse to accept of our charity, it should be re- 
 served for future use. The letter of these brethren to be 
 published in the "Gospel Visitor." 
 
 Art. 30. Request from the church on Owl Creek, Knox 
 County, Ohio, for a committee to settle some difficulties. 
 Concluded, that Brethren George Hoke, Elias Dicky, Jacob 
 
200 MINUTES OF 
 
 Gerber, II. D. Davy, and J. P. Ebersole should be that 
 committee. 
 
 Art. 31. Request from Hunterdon County, ISTew Jersey, 
 for a committee to investigate certain matters in the church 
 there. Considered, that Brethren Andrew Spanogle and 
 Peter Long, of Pennsylvania, and John Kline, John "Wine, 
 and Martin Miller, of Virginia, should visit that church, 
 and try to settle their difficulties. 
 
 Art. 32. In regard to the still existing difficulties in the 
 Coventry Church, Chester County, Pennsylvania, we could 
 see no other remedy, in the present lamentable aspect of 
 things, than that either the whole church unite sincerely 
 to submit to the advice given by the Yearly Meeting, and 
 the committee sent there in 1854, or to establish that part 
 of the church which is so inclined as a separate body or 
 church, and in order to accomplish either a true reconcilia- 
 tion or peaceable separation, the last-named committee is 
 also appointed for this business, and likwise for that on 
 Indian Creek, referred to in article 21, above. 
 
 Art. 33. By request of Bro. George Hoke, who wishes 
 to resign his agency of the Garber charity fund, it was 
 concluded that Bro. Elias Dicky should take charge of the 
 same. 
 
 Art. 34. An appeal from a number of members in Story 
 County, Iowa, to send brethren to them for the purpose of 
 organizing a church. Left to those ordained elders who 
 contemplate a journey to that new and growing state. 
 
 Art. 35. A number of papers were handed in concern- 
 ing difficulties in Covington Church, Miami County, Ohio, 
 which contain as many queries as would occupy a meeting 
 for several days, and inasmuch as the settlement of the 
 difficulties has been tried again and again, by able and im- 
 partial' committees, and agreed to by the church, yet with- 
 out the desired effect; also, inasmuch as said church is 
 excessively large and numerous, we would advise the church 
 to be divided into two districts, hoping and praying that 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 201 
 
 this may issue in a peaceable settlement and reconciliation. 
 For this purpose the following brethren were appointed 
 as a committee : George Shively, James Tracey, Jacob Mil- 
 ler, John Metzger, George Hoover, Jacob Metzger, David 
 Hardman, all of Indiana, and Peter Nead and Daniel Miller, 
 of Ohio. 
 
 Art. 3G. A request from the church in Highland County, 
 Ohio, for a committee to visit .said church. Granted, and 
 the committee last named also appointed for this business. 
 
 Art. 37. A renewed invitation from our beloved brethren 
 in "Washington County, Maryland, for the next Yearly 
 Meeting, on Pentecost, 1857, to be held at their meeting- 
 house, where the Yearly Meeting in 1838 had taken place, 
 eight miles south of Hagerstown, and thirteen miles north- 
 east of Kearneysville, Jefferson County, Virginia, at both 
 of which places brethren traveling by public conveyance 
 will be able to procure conveyance to the place of meeting, 
 as there will be arrangements made accordingly by the 
 resident brethren. Brethren at a distance, desiring further 
 information, by addressing Elder Daniel Eeichard, sen., 
 College of St. James, Washington County, Maryland, will 
 be promptly and cheerfully attended to. This invitation 
 was gratefully accepted, and hence our next Yearly Meet- 
 ing is appointed to take place on Pentecost, 1857, God will- 
 ing, at the brethren's meeting-house above designated, in 
 Washington County, Maryland. 
 
 Art. 38. Brothers Henry Kurtz and James Quinter were 
 appointed as a committee to enter into arrangements with 
 the railroad companies for next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Signed by the following brethren : George Hoke, George 
 Shively, John Leatherman, J acob Long, Peter Nead, James 
 Tracey, Joseph Emmert, John Berkley, Andrew Spanogle, 
 John Kline, Joseph Arnold, Daniel Miller. 
 
 Henry Kurtz, Clerk. 
 
202 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1857. 
 
 Public worship commenced on Lord's-day morning, May 
 31st ; and, to afford the large concourse of people present 
 as favorable an opportunity of hearing the gospel preached 
 as possible, there was preaching at three different places. 
 At two of those places the preaching was all in the English 
 language, and at the other place in the English and Ger- 
 man. 
 
 The council-meeting was opened on Monday morning, 
 with devotional exercises. The standing committee was 
 then appointed, and it immediately proceeded to prepare 
 business for the meeting. While the standing committee 
 was receiving the delegates, appointing the sub-committees, 
 etc., there was public preaching. 
 
 The sub-committees commenced reporting on. Monday 
 afternoon, and the following queries were reported and an- 
 swered, as herein stated : 
 
 Article 1. Concerning the use of ardent spirits among 
 the brethren. Considered, that every brother that is in- 
 trusted with the oversight of a church, should exert his 
 influence, by example and precept, to induce all the mem- 
 bers of his congregation to abstain altogether from the use 
 of ardent spirits, as an article of luxury or as a drink, and 
 not to give it to working hands to drink, admitting it only 
 for medical and mechanical purposes. The same advice is 
 given to all the officers, in all the churches, throughout our 
 whole brotherhood. 
 
 Art. 2. Is it according to the gospel to have the supper 
 on the table at the time the feet are washed? Answer: 
 Inasmuch as it is not expressly declared that Jesus rose 
 from the table, he may probably have risen from a prepared 
 supper, and as the brethren have the supper prepared be- 
 fore they proceed to the washing of feet, with their past 
 practices in relation to these things we are satisfied. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 203 
 
 Art. 3. Is it prudent to publish fictitious names to arti- 
 cles published in public prints ? Answer : It is not prudent 
 for brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 4. Does that part of the eighteenth chapter of the 
 gospel according to Matthew, which is read to applicants 
 for baptism, cover all cases of trespasses and and offenses, 
 public and private ? Answer: No ; it does not contain al 
 the divine law upon the subject of offenses, but it is thi 
 best rule to pursue with offending members. 
 
 Art. 5. When the churches send messengers to represent 
 them in the Annual Council, should they not have their 
 traveling expenses, to and from the place of meeting, de- 
 frayed by the churches which send them? Answer: Yes, 
 they should, if they require it. 
 
 Art. 6. As the subject of slavery has often been before 
 the Annual Meeting, and as it has always been considered 
 that no brother can, according to the gospel, hold a fellow- 
 creature in bondage (to which we say, Amen), what, then, 
 is to be done with brethren who do not observe the advice 
 given by the Yearly Meeting, in this or in any other re- 
 spect? Answer: That such churches or members should 
 be visited, and if not willing to liberate their slaves, they 
 should be dealt with according to the gospel manner of 
 dealing with all gross transgressions. 
 
 Art. 7. A request for a committee to visit the church in 
 Monroe County, Iowa. The request was granted, and the 
 following brethren were appointed on the committee : Sam- 
 uel Lehman, Christ. Long, Geo. Butterbaugh, Dan. Frey, 
 John Metzger, Sam. Garver, Hiel Hamilton, and John P. 
 Ebersole. 
 
 Art. 8. The twenty-fourth query on the minutes of 1856 
 being brought forward, it was concluded best for such 
 churches as have occasion to act on such cases, to act in the 
 fear of the Lord, according to their knowledge of the 
 cases. 
 
 Art. 9. Why do not the sisters break the bread, and 
 
20-i MINUTES OF 
 
 pass the cup to each other, in the same manner as the 
 brethren do, at the communion ? Answer: Man being the 
 head of the woman, and it having been the practice of the 
 church, from time immemorial, for the officiating brethren 
 to break the bread to the sisters, we know of no scriptural 
 leason for makiug a change in our practice. 
 
 Art. 10. How is it considered for brethren, and espe- 
 cially ministering brethren, to adorn their children with 
 ear-rings, breast-pins, finger-rings, and jewelry in general, 
 and send them from home to have them taught music, and 
 to procure pianos for them? Answer: Brethren should 
 not do so. 
 
 Art. 11. How is it considered for brethren to have Sab- 
 bath schools, conducted by the brethren? Answer: Inas- 
 much as we are commanded to bring up our children in 
 the nurture and admonition of the\Lord, we know of no 
 scripture which condemns Sabbath-schools, if couducted 
 in gospel order, and if they are made the means of teach- 
 ing scholars a knowledge of the Scriptures. 
 
 Art. 12. How is it considered, if a poor brother becomes 
 insane, and void of all reason, so much so as to become 
 dangerous, and very troublesome, and a place can scarcely 
 be obtained for him in a private family upon any condition, 
 a poor-house being in the county, are the brethren bound 
 to keep him, according to the gospel, or are they permitted 
 to deliver him to the trustees of the poor, to take charge 
 of him ? Answer : A member of the church should not be 
 put into the poor-house, if it can possibly be avoided. 
 
 Art. 13. "What right have any two or three churches to 
 reconsider the action of another church, and that without 
 any representation from the church upon whose decision 
 they sit in judgment, and "then reinstate members which 
 said church-had excluded? Answer: We consider that 
 one branch of the church has no right to restore a member 
 to his place in the church, when he had been excluded by 
 another branch of the church, without the concurrence of 
 the church which excluded him. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 205 
 
 Art. 14. How is it considered, if ministering brethren 
 take as much as ten dollars, as a fee for performing the 
 marriage ceremony; and does the gospel allow ministers a 
 fee under any circumstances ? Answer: The gospel does 
 not allow ministers to take a fee. 
 
 Art. 15. Is it really considered a sin, according to the 
 gospel, for members of the church to have their likenesses 
 taken? Answer: Members of the church should not have 
 their likenesses taken. 
 
 Art. 16. Inasmuch as it is considered, by the brethren, 
 that we have no right, according to the gospel, to use the 
 law in collecting debts-, or to sue at law, would not a 
 brother who has done so, or may do so, fall into the judg- 
 ment of the church? Answer: This subject has frequently 
 been discussed in our Annual Meetings, and we can not, 
 we think, come to a better conclusion than our dear breth- 
 ren came to in 1852; and as no brother should be his own 
 judge in this matter, the brethren, very wisely, added the 
 proviso, that in all cases the church should be consulted, 
 aud if the council is disregarded, those who disregard it 
 will fall into the judgment of the church. 
 
 Art. 17. A request from the Clover Creek Church, in 
 Blair County, Pennsylvania, for the Annual Meeting in 
 1860. The request was favorably received, and will be con- 
 sidered at a future meeting. 
 
 Art. 18. A request for a committee to visit the Swatara 
 Church, in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. The request 
 was granted, and the following brethren were appointed on 
 the committee: Peter Long, Andrew Spanogle, Sam. Har- 
 ley, John Glock, John Holsinger, and George Brumbaugh. 
 
 Art. 19. What are the views of the present Annual 
 Council in regard to the contemplated school, that was al- 
 luded to, some time since, in the "Gospel Visitor?" An- 
 swer: It is conforming to the world. The Apostle Paul 
 says : " Knowledge pufl'eth up, but charity edifieth." 
 
 Art. 20. Do not those administrators of baptism, who 
 
206 MINUTES OF 
 
 make the candidates for baptism renounce all the world 
 require too much of the candidates, since we all have more 
 or less to do with the world? Would it not be more 
 proper to require of them to renounce only what is con- 
 trary to the gospel? Answer: The third article of the 
 minutes of 1848, contains the proper renunciation of the 
 world. The passage in that article, referred to here, reads 
 thus: "Dost thou renounce all the sinful pleasures of this 
 world?" 
 
 Art. 21. Would it not be better, in deciding upon all 
 subjects brought before our Annual Meetings, to refer first 
 to the word of God, instead of first referring to the old 
 minutes ? Answer : We think it always safest to refer first 
 to the word of God. 
 
 Art. 22. Is it agreeable to the gospel for brethren to 
 teach singing-schools? Answer: We consider it best for 
 brethren not to teach singing-school on the Sabbath or at 
 night. 
 
 Art. 23. If persons, who are not members of the church, 
 become subscribers to the " Gospel Visitor," should the 
 editors send the minutes of the Annual Meeting to such ? 
 Answer : We think it not wrong to send the minutes of 
 the Annual Meeting to all who desire them, and pay for 
 them. 
 
 Art. 24. Would it not be best for churches, in selecting 
 delegates to represent them at the Annual Council, to 
 make choice of one deacon, or of one lay member, to serve 
 as a delegate in connection with one ministering brother, 
 and thus relieve the ministry from the responsible position 
 of being the exclusive advisers of the churches ? Answer : 
 We think it should be left to the churches to select such 
 members for delegates as they may think proper. 
 
 Art. 25. It is requested that the ninth article of the min- 
 utes of 1855 be again taken into consideration, because of 
 great difficulties and dissatisfaction which have arisen from 
 the same. It seems, according to that article, to be consid- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF TUE BRETHREN. 207 
 
 ered an error to teach remission of sins before baptism. 
 This seems difficult and dark, and we desire a better ex- 
 planation of the matter. If we receive no more light to 
 satisfy our members, and even our teachers, we have fears 
 of serious troubles in the brotherhood. Answer: We do 
 not think that we can give more satisfaction than is given 
 in the ninth article of the minutes of 1855, as the senti- 
 ments there expressed seem to be in accordance with the 
 gospel, and we, therefore, adopt that answer. 
 
 Art. 26. A request for a committee to visit the church 
 m Clarion County, Pennsylvania, to settle difficulties. The 
 request was granted, and the following brethren appointed 
 on the committee : Andrew Spanogle, Abraham Rothrock, 
 David Meyers, Joseph Hanawalt, and John Clock. 
 
 Art. 27. A request for a committee to visit the Ridge 
 Church, in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. The re- 
 quest was granted, and the following brethren were ap- 
 pointed on the committee: Christian Keefer, Isaac Pfoutz, 
 Jacob Saylor, Philip Boyle, and Geo. Beer. 
 
 Art. 28. A request for a committee to visit the Tulpe- 
 hocken Church, in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, to set- 
 tle difficulties existing there. The request was granted, 
 and the same committee appointed to visit this church that 
 was appointed to visit the Swatara Church, in Dauphin 
 County, Pennsylvania. (See Art. 18). 
 
 Art. 29. The Marsh Creek Church, in Adams County, 
 Pennsylvania, requests a reconsideration of Art. 39, of the 
 minutes of 1853, relating to the salutation of the kiss, at 
 baptism, the communion, and at ordinations. Answer : It 
 is neither expedient, nor desirable, to make any change in 
 the aforesaid article of the minutes. 
 
 Art. 30. Is it consistent with the gospel for brethren to 
 serve in the capacity of any of the civil officers under our 
 government; and is there any material difference, as to 
 state, county, or township officers? Answer : We consider 
 it wrong for brethren to accept of any office, which requires 
 
203 MINUTES OF 
 
 them to administer an oath, or to use physical force, in per- 
 forming the duties of that office. 
 
 Art. 31. Would it not be advisable to change the time of 
 holding our Annual Meetings, as Whitsuntide comes too 
 early some seasons, especially in some parts of the country? 
 Answer : We judge it best to make no change in the time 
 of holding our Annual Council. 
 
 Art. 32. If a brother removes from one church to another, 
 and is received by the church to which he removes as a full 
 member, by certificate or otherwise, and afterward a diffi- 
 culty arises with him in the church in which he formerly 
 resided, is his case to be tried in the church into which he 
 removed, or is he to have his trial in the church in which 
 the difficulty originated? Answer: It is judged proper 
 that his case be referred back to the church from which he 
 removed. 
 
 Art. 33. A request from the Elk Creek Church, Somer- 
 set County, Pennsylvania, for the Annual Meeting in 1859. 
 The request was favorably received, but rio definite decision 
 made. 
 
 Art. 34. A request from the Limestone Church, in Wash- 
 ington County, Tennessee, for the Annual Meeting, as soon 
 as convenient, if suitable, in 1860. The request was favor- 
 ably received but no answer given. 
 
 Art. 35. A request for a committee to visit the Ashland 
 Church, in Ashland County, Ohio. The request was 
 granted, and the following brethren were appointed : J. P. 
 Ebersole, Joseph Showalter, Henry Davy, Christian Wise, 
 and David Fackler. 
 
 Art. 36. A renewal of the request from the Bachelor Run 
 Church, Indiana, for the Annual Meeting of 1858. This 
 request was thankfully received, and granted. Conse- 
 quently, our next Yearly Meeting will be held, the Lord 
 willing, on Pentecost, 1858, with the brethren of Bachelor 
 Run Church, Carroll County, Indiana. The place of meet- 
 ing will be the Bachelor Run meeting-house, ten miles 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 209 
 
 southeast of Delphi. Persons traveling by public convey- 
 ance will go to Delphi. 
 
 Signed by John H. Umstad, Andrew Spanogle, Christ. 
 Keefer, John Wine, Abraham Neff, J. P. Ebersole, George 
 Hoke, John Metzger, Abraham Moss, Joseph Emmert, 
 Samuel Garver. 
 
 D. P. Satlor, Clerk. 
 
 James Quinter, Assistant Cler 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1858. 
 
 The number of brethren assembled on Saturday being 
 very large, there was a meeting for worship held in the 
 afternoon. On Lord's-day, in order to give the people the- 
 best opportunities the circumstances would permit for 
 hearing the word of the Lord preached, divine service was 
 performed at different places. On Monday morning the 
 council-meeting was organized by appointing the standing- 
 committee and secretaries. The delegates then presented 
 themselves, and the papers addressed to the council were 
 received. There were represented at this council-meeting 
 one hundred and twenty-two churches. The delegates 
 from these churches were divided into fifteen committees, 
 and to them were given the papers designed to come before 
 the council, in order that they might report upon them. 
 On Tuesday morning after the devotional exercises were 
 performed, the committees began to report, and it was as- 
 certained that the following queries were before the coun- 
 cil. They were considered in the fear of God, and answer- 
 ed as herein stated. 
 
 Article 1. Can a person be received into the church 
 
 who is uncle to his wife ? Or, do the brethren think the 
 
 gospel will not allow such a person becoming a member of 
 
 the church ? Considered, that if he is uncle to his wife by 
 
 14 
 
210 MINUTES OF 
 
 marriage, he may be received, if by blood relation, he 
 should not be. 
 
 Art. 2. Is it according to the gospel of Christ for breth- 
 ren, especially bishops, in speaking on the final destinies 
 of the ungodly, to preach publicly that they shall be pun- 
 ished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the 
 Lord, and privately teach that all will be restored everlast- 
 ingly, whether they know God and obey the gospel of our 
 Lord Jesus Christ or not ? And if asked the question by an 
 alien whether the devil himself will be saved, make no reply ? 
 Answer : We think brethren should be careful not to con- 
 tradict privately what they preach publicly. 
 
 Art. 3. Is it consistent to preach eternal punishment, 
 and at the same time to peddle Winchester's Dialogues on 
 Restoration ? Tell us how it is. Answer : If a brother 
 preaches eternal punishment, it would be inconsistent for 
 him to distribute Winchester's Dialogues on the Restora- 
 tion. 
 
 Art. 4. It is according to the gospel of Christ in paying 
 our annual visit, to collect from twenty to thirty of the 
 brethren together in one place, and then the bishops pay 
 the visit to them openly when they are all together, and 
 then send them out two or three together and visit those 
 that were not thus collected ? Or, is the duty restricted to 
 the visiting brethren exclusively, and should the visit be 
 made from house to house ? Answer: As we have no direct 
 rule in the gospel for making the visit, we think it best for 
 visiting brethren to go from house to house. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it required of those who are so unfortunate as 
 to have their companions put in avoidance, not to accom- 
 pany with them as man and wife ? Considered, that as the 
 apostle says we are not to eat with them, we think his 
 
 prohibition is sufficient. 
 
 Art. 6. How are we to proceed with members who come 
 to our love-feasts, from other congregations, and who when 
 they leave home are dressed after the gay fashions of the 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 211 
 
 world, and during the day change their dress several times, 
 and put on in the evening a plainer dress to go to the commu- 
 nion table ? Is it enough simply to admonish such members, 
 or should the church in which they live be informed ? And 
 must we indeed commune with such members, when some 
 of the members in the church are grieved by such conduct ? 
 Considered, that it is wrong for members to do so, but they 
 should not be debarred from the privilege of communing 
 until the brethren of the district in which they live have 
 been informed, and until they have been reproved, and 
 afterward continue disobedient. 
 
 Art. 7. What is to be done when a man puts away his 
 wife for the cause of adultery and obtains a bill of divorce- 
 ment, and marries again ; the church not knowing of this, 
 nor he that the church disallows of such for some two years 
 after he has become a member. Answer: "We have not 
 light enough at present to give any advice different from 
 what the brethren have formerly given. 
 
 Art. 8. Does the gospel convey the idea that the public 
 practical use of the spiritual gifts, such as prayer, exhorta- 
 tion, teaching, doctrine, and prophesying, etc., are alone 
 confined to the chosen officers of the church, or does it 
 extend that privilege to every member, especially male 
 members of the church, if the influence of the spirit of 
 Christ so dictate to him ? Answer : As it regards prayer, 
 it is considered that'private members may pray in public, if 
 liberty be given by elder brethern. But exhortation, teach- 
 ing and prophesying seem to be duties and privileges belong- 
 ing to the officers of the church. (See I. Cor. xiv. 32). 
 
 Art. 9. Would it not be advisable for the Annual Meet- 
 ing to make a form for the brethren to perform matrimony ? 
 Answer : It is thought not advisable. 
 
 Art. 10. How is it considered when a difficulty arises 
 between husband and wife, and the wife depart from her 
 husband, is it the duty of the husband to pursue the 
 course prescribed in Matt. xvm. 15-17? Answer: "We 
 consider it is. 
 
212 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 11. Is it according to the gospel to expel a brother 
 from his office, whether deacon or minister, and yet leave him 
 stand as a member? Answer: We have a right — accord- 
 ing to the gospel; inasmuch as he is put into office by the 
 council of the church, by the council of the church the office 
 can be taken from him. I. Tim. in. 
 
 Art. 12. Is it agreeable to the gospel for a church to 
 grant the privilege to a member to do certain things, and 
 at the same time debar him from the communion for so 
 doing? Answer: That no church, according to the gospel, 
 has a right to do so. 
 
 Art. 13. If the churches demand committees by the 
 Annual Meeting, to visit them to settle difficulties among 
 them, would it be advisable for said churches to defray the 
 expenses of said committees. Answer: The churches call- 
 ing committees should defray the traveling expenses. 
 
 Art. 14. "Would it not be advisable for those who wish 
 to have the minutes, to pay a few more cents to the pub- 
 lishers and have them sent in a sealed letter, more privately 
 than I, they heretofore have been sent? Referred to the 
 Annual Meeting of 1857. (We think it not wrong to send 
 the minutes of the Annual Meeting to all who desire them 
 and pay for them. Minutes of 1857, Art. 23.) 
 
 Art. 15. Would it not be agreeable to the gospel, and 
 the order of the brethren, when the standing committee 
 appoints committees to go to other churches to settle diffi- 
 culties, to authorize such brethren that circumstances will 
 not permit to attend such council, to send some other or- 
 dained brethren in their places, so that there will be a full 
 committee? Considered, that it is the duty of such breth- 
 ren, that can not go, to appoint others in their places, that 
 the committee may be full. 
 
 Art. 16. Is it right for a brother, that is a deacon, to give 
 out a hymn and sing it, ten or fifteen minutes before the 
 time appointed for commencing meeting, when the house, 
 or room, is full of people, or is it more advisable to remain 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 213 
 
 silent till the time for commencing meeting arrives ? Con- 
 sidered, that we see no impropriety in singing, when, in the 
 estimation of the church, it is done to its own edification, 
 and to the honor of God. 
 
 Art. 17. Is it right for a speaker to sing a hymn, or a 
 part of a hymn, at the time of the communion, when the 
 wine is passing round ? Considered, it is right to do so. 
 
 Art. 18. Whereas, we are aware that the decision of the 
 last Annual Meeting, in relation to the subject presented 
 in the fourteenth query of said meeting, has given a great 
 •deal of dissatisfaction, and is, to a great extent disregarded, 
 thus bringing the decisions of the Annual Meeting into dis- 
 respect; we therefore recommend that this meeting recon- 
 sider that subject, and if the decision of the last meeting is 
 •sustained, it is desirable that some scriptural authority 
 should be given for it, as should be done in all cases. Re- 
 considered, and concluded to adopt the decision of the An- 
 nual Meeting of 1843. (Considered, that this meeting can 
 not advise brethren to take a fee, and would leave it, as a 
 matter of conscience, to the ministering brother, with the 
 .advice of the church in which he lives. Minutes of 1848, 
 Art. 9.) 
 
 Art. 19. What is the ancient and established order of 
 the brethren in advancing speakers to the second degree of 
 office? Are they received with hand and kiss? Consid- 
 ered, that the proper way is to receive them with hand and 
 kiss. 
 
 Art. 20. Is it right, according to the gospel, to enforce 
 the law in any case whatever, and if so, where is the gos- 
 pel authority? Concluded to adopt the decision of the 
 Annual Meeting of 1857. (This subject has frequently been 
 discussed in our Annual Meetings, and we can not, we 
 think, come to a better conclusion than our dear brethren 
 came to in 1852; and as no brother should be his own 
 judge in this matter, the brethren, very wisely, added the 
 proviso, that, in all cases, the church should be consulted, 
 
214 MINUTES OF 
 
 and if its council is disregarded, those who disregard it will 
 fall into the judgment of the church. Minutes of 1857, 
 Art. 16.) 
 
 Art. 21. Is it right, according to the gospel, for breth- 
 ren to purchase notes from brethren, or others, and shave 
 them at 15 per cent, or more? Considered, that it is not 
 according to the gospel for brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 22. "What should be done with a brother who holds 
 the council of the Annual Meeting in disrespect, and who 
 speaks lightly and disrespectfully of it? Considered, that 
 he should be kindly admonished to do so no more, and if 
 he will not hear the admonition, he should be dealt with 
 according to Matt, xviii. 
 
 Art. 28. "What does the Annual Meeting think of taking 
 the preparatory steps for producing a new hymn-book ? 
 Referred to the next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 24. "When a church stands in need of speakers or 
 deacons, should the bishop make it known to the members 
 before, or only on the day of the election? Considered, 
 that we leave the churches to do as they have been accus- 
 tomed to do in relation to this subject. 
 
 Art. 25. In the phrase, "Anoint thy head " (Matt. vi. 17), 
 is the anointing literal? and, if so, with what is the head 
 to be anointed ? Answer : "We think the anointing is literal, 
 and that it is to be done with oil ; but we think, when it is 
 observed, it should be done in a way so that it will not at- 
 tract public notice. 
 
 Art. 26. How is it considered if a brother, who is a min- 
 ister, would make appointments some distance from home, 
 where there is an organized church, and would hold meet- 
 ings, and baptize, without referring to the brethren that 
 had the oversight there of the church, when the brethren 
 live in the immediate neighborhood, and might be consulted 
 conveniently? And if this is wrong, how should such & 
 brother be dealt with? Considered, that when ministering 
 brethren go out of their own church, to labor and to ad- 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 215 
 
 minister the ordinances of the gospel in another district, 
 they should do so with the consent of the laborers of the 
 district into which they go, when it can be conveniently 
 obtained. And brethren who do not adhere to this counsel, 
 do not labor to promote peace and love, and should be ad- 
 monished by the church. 
 
 Art. 27. Would it not be well for the brethren to come 
 upon some plan to acquaint all the bishops and housekeep- 
 ers of the various branches of the church with the rules 
 and regulations concluded upon by the General Council for 
 the more perfect union and prosperity of the church? 
 And if these rules and regulations be violated by a minis- 
 ter, with some of the members composing his district, 
 should they not fall into the hands of the brethren of the 
 adjacent districts, as offenders, and be dealt with as such ; 
 and if the above should be considered expedient, what plan 
 should be devised to carry it into effect? Answer: We 
 are fully satisfied that the means long had in practice by 
 the brethren (namely, the minutes of our Annual Meeting), 
 are sufficient to give the teachers and housekeepers, and 
 members in general, the decisions of our Annual Council 
 for the perfecting of love and union throughout the broth- 
 erhood; and if it should so happen that a housekeeper, 
 with a part, or all, of the members of his district, could not 
 be satisfied with the decisions of the Annual Council, as 
 we were advised and instructed by our beloved elder breth- 
 ren, and unanimously concurred in at the Annual Meeting, 
 held in 1850, in Montgomery County, Ohio, they should 
 bear with the Annual Council, and with one another, until 
 the next Annual Meeting, and then bring their grievances 
 to the Annual Council where they proceeded from, and, we 
 believe, full satisfaction will be obtained. 
 
 Art. 28. Is it consistent with the word of God for the 
 followers of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to make 
 arrangements with railroad companies to obtain the benefit 
 of half- fare, in going to and returning from the Yearly Meet- 
 
216 MINUTES OF 
 
 iug ? Considered, that it is right for brethren to avail them- 
 selves of the privilege offered by the railroad companies, 
 but we would advise all our brethren to comply with the 
 rules of the companies, and if a misunderstanding should 
 occur, not to contend, but rather pay full fare. 
 
 Art. 29. Is it right to give liberty to other denominations 
 to preach funeral sermons in our meeting-houses ? Answer : 
 It is right, especially if preached on the day of the funeral. 
 
 Art. 30. How is it considered if a brother has a note 
 against another poor brother, who can not pay, and the 
 brother who has the note sells it to his son, who is not a 
 member of the church, and he collects the debt by law, 
 and causes the poor brother's property to be sold, the brother 
 who sold the note justifying himself in doing "^as he did; 
 what is to be done in such a case ? Considered, that the 
 brother who did so, committed a great fault, and that he 
 should make restitution to the poor brother to the satisfac- 
 tion of the church. 
 
 Art. 31. Is it contrary to the gospel for brethren to hold 
 meetings for a number of days in succession, in one place, 
 in order to preach the pure word of God, and to adminis- 
 ter the ordinance of baptism to those who believe the word 
 and receive it ? Considered, not contrary to the gospel, if 
 the believer is proceeded with according to the gospel and 
 the order of the brethren, as given by the Annual Meeting 
 of 1848, Art, 3. 
 
 Art. 32. If any man be in Christ, and Christ in him, can 
 he institute aud prosecute a process in law against any per- 
 son or persons, and he all the time still continue in Christ, 
 and Christ in him ? Considered, that he can not, especially 
 if gone into without the counsel of the church in which he 
 lives. 
 
 Art. 33. Is it according to the word of God to make 
 use of beef instead of lamb, in eating the Lord's Supper? 
 Answer : It ifl. 
 
 Art. 34. Whereas, there is a diversity of opinion among 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 217 
 
 the brethren concerning the mode of celebrating the Lord's 
 Supper; we, therefore, wish the brethren, at the Annual 
 Meeting, to devise some plan, that we may all be alike in 
 our practice. Considered, that inasmuch as the difference 
 is not stated, we recommend the practice heretofore recom- 
 mended. 
 
 Art. 35. How is it considered when ministering brethren 
 have preached at meeting, and visiting brethren rise to their 
 feet to bear testimony? Or, which is the proper order, for 
 deacons to rise or keep their seats in exhorting? Consid-, 
 ered, that it is not advisable, when two or three ministering 
 brethren have preached, for deacons to rise and speak; but 
 if there is but one speaker, or if there are none present, it 
 is not inconsistent with the order of the brethren for a dea- 
 con to rise and exhort. 
 
 Art. 36. Is it right to use, at our communion meetings, 
 the article of wine frequently used, and known by those 
 who are judges of the article to be an adulterated article, 
 and hence can not properly be called the fruit of the vine? 
 Considered, that it is advisable to procure the purest article. 
 
 Art. 37. How is it considered when one brother preaches 
 that there is no baptism of the Holy Ghost now, but that 
 it is only the gift of the Holy Ghost which believers receive, 
 while another brother prays for the Lord to baptize with 
 the Holy Ghost? Answer: We think it best for no brother 
 to preach that there is no baptism of the Holy Ghost- now, 
 but in praying we should pray for the gift of the Holy 
 Ghost. 
 
 A hi. 38. How is it considered if a brother makes an as- 
 signment, and how shall he be dealt with ? . Answer : That 
 it is not right for a brother to make an assignment, with 
 the purpose to defraud his creditors ; and if he should do 
 so, he should be dealt with according to Matt. xvin. 
 
 Art. 39. How should brethren proceed, after preaching, 
 relative to getting members to join the church ? Shall the 
 preacher, while singing a hymn, give an invitation to those 
 
218 MINUTES OF 
 
 who wish to join the church to come forward, or shall he 
 leave it to them to make their own application ? Consid- 
 ered, that it is best to let them make their own application, 
 as in Acts u. 37, and xvi. 30. 
 
 Art. 40. Is it according to the gospel for brethren to hold 
 what are called social meetings, and to give liberty to all 
 present to rise and speak, so that members of other socie- 
 ties feel themselves at liberty to admonish ? Considered, 
 that social meetings should be strictly held in order, and to 
 give liberty to all present to rise on their feet and admon- 
 ish, is not in order. 
 
 Art. 41. Inasmuch as there has been great confusion in 
 various branches of the church, during the past year, rela- 
 tive to the manner of taking in members, as this has been 
 done in many different ways, would brethren not consider 
 it prudent, and consistent with the gospel, to have a unity 
 of practice throughout the church, and, if so, what shall 
 that practice be ; shall it be the order laid down in the min- 
 utes of 1848, or will the brethren draft a new order ? Con- 
 sidered, that we will continue the order laid down in the 
 minutes of 1848, which is as follows : 
 
 " First, the applicant to be examined by two or more 
 brethren ; then the case to be brought before the church 
 council, before whom the applicant is to declare his agree- 
 ment with us, in regard to the principles of being defense- 
 less, non-swearing, and not conforming to the world ; then 
 in meeting, or at the water, to read from Matt, xviii. 10-22, 
 in public, the candidates being asked if they will be gov- 
 erned by those gospel rules ; then prayer at the water, and 
 in the water the following questions to be asked : 
 
 "Question: Dost thou believe that Jesus Christ is the 
 Son of God, and that he has brought from heaven a saving 
 gospel? Answer: Yea. 
 
 " Question : Dost thou willingly renounce Satan, with all 
 his pernicious ways, and all the sinful pleasures of this 
 world? Answer: Yea. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 219 
 
 "Question: Dost thou covenant with God, in Christ 
 Jesus, to be faithful until death ? Answer : Yea. 
 
 " Upon this, thy confession of faith, which thou hast 
 made before God and these witnesses, thou shalt, for the 
 remission of sins, be baptized in the name of the Father, 
 and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. After baptism, 
 while in the water, the administrator shall lay his hands 
 on the head of the candidate, and offer up a prayer to God 
 in his behalf, and then the member is to be received, by 
 hand and kiss, into church fellowship." Minutes of 1848, 
 Art. 3. 
 
 Art. 42. How is it considered, if a member moves off 
 some distance, and be absent awhile, and then return on a 
 visit, and then, while at the place at which he formerly re- 
 sided, conducting himself either becoming or unbecoming 
 a follower of Christ, the church gives him permission to 
 exhort or preach, by taking silence for consent? Consid- 
 ered, not according to the order of the brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 43. How is it considered if an individual moves out 
 the fence of a brother's field, and the brother sends the sheriff 
 and brings a suit of trespass ; his case is brought before the 
 church, and one bishop, with the teachers and deacons and 
 other members, decide that the brother has done wrong, 
 but the oldest bishop, with the other members, say that he 
 had no other way to do, and when the voice was taken 
 there was an equal number approving and disapproving 
 the brother's course? Considered, that no member, or 
 members, has a right to put the law in force against his 
 fellow-man, without first taking the counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 44. Is the gospel itself sufficient to preserve a union 
 of practice throughout the brotherhood? Considered, 
 that the gospel, with the practice or order consistent with 
 the gospel, will preserve the union of the brotherhood. 
 
 Art. 45. Have a few members of a church the privilege 
 to appoint a church meeting, and call for the assistance of 
 brethren in other districts, without the council of the 
 
220 MINUTES OF 
 
 church, or ot the elders of the church? Considered, that 
 brethren have no right to do so without counseling the 
 elder brethren and the church. 
 
 Art. 46. Should the church receive a person that had 
 been living in a state of matrimony awhile, and apparently 
 did not live in peace ; then, leaving his companion, gets 
 married to another one, and, after some time, leaving the 
 second one for the same reason he left the first, and while 
 his first companion was yet living ? Considered, that, ac- 
 cording to the gospel, such a person should not be received 
 into the church. 
 
 Art. 47. How is it considered, in the case of a brother 
 who has been expelled from the church, and then takes up 
 with a woman that has a husband living, and lives with 
 her fifteen years ; then her husband dies, and the two get 
 lawfully married, and now he has made application to be 
 taken into the church, and we desire the Yearly Meeting 
 to give counsel what to do? Considered, that he may be 
 received, provided he brings forth fruit meet for repentance. 
 
 Art. 48. How is it considered when brethren preach and 
 argue that there is no difference between the soul and the 
 body, and hell and the grave, and that there is no knowl- 
 edge between death and the resurrection, and no punish- 
 ment after death, but that the wicked will be immediately 
 destroyed or annihilated ? Answer: Such brethren should 
 be sharply reproved of their errors, and if they will not 
 hear the church, we can not hold such as brethren, much 
 less as preachers. 
 
 Art. 49. A brother buys a farm that is sold by executors, 
 who are not members ot the church, and fails to make 
 payment according to contract, the heirs being members 
 of the church, who, after waiting a long time and being in 
 great need of the money, and living over one hundred miles 
 distant from the brother who bought the farm, receive a 
 letter from him stating that he will pay them $500, if they 
 will throw off the interest. The heirs, being unwilling to 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 221 
 
 do so, send word to their executors to collect the money by 
 law. Are the heirs now under obligation to pay the cost 
 of collection ? Considered, that they are not under such 
 obligation. 
 
 Art. 50. Is it agreeable to the gospel to hold a protracted 
 meeting, say for one week or ten days in succession? An- 
 swer : As to the phrase " protracted meetings," we know 
 nothing of it in the gospel ; but as touching the frequency 
 of the saints meeting together, we find no limits in the 
 gospel, so they are held in the order of the house of God. 
 
 Art. 51. "We desire to know whether the Lord has com- 
 manded us to have a school besides our common schools, 
 such as the one contemplated in the " Gospel Visitor ? " 
 If we are, ought we not to have it soon ? And if it is not 
 commanded of the Lord, ought we to have one ? And is 
 it right to contend for or against such an institution publicly 
 through the press, since our different views may become a 
 stumbling-block before the world? And if it is once 
 decided, ought we not to keep forever silent about it ? An- 
 swer : Concerning the school proposed in the " Gospel Visi- 
 tor,'' we think we have no right to interfere with an 
 individual enterprise so long as there is no departure from 
 gospel principles. 
 
 Art. 52. Is it right for a brother to go about taking 
 likenesses with a Daguerrean apparatus ? Considered, that 
 it is not right. Rom. I. 23; Deut. xxvn. 15. 
 
 Art. 53. How is it considered when a brother who is 
 forwarded to the AVord as a minister of the first degree, 
 attends meetings, makes appointments, or fills such when 
 made by others who are not members of the church with- 
 out counseling the church, or ordained brethren when 
 there are such in the district where he was chosen ? Con- 
 sidered, that as ministers are the servants of the church, 
 they ought not to do any thing contrary to the will of the 
 church, and when it is convenient they should always con- 
 sult the church. 
 
222 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 54. In case a woman has a husband and has lived 
 with him in matrimony for a year or longer, and then the 
 husband departs and leaves his wife, nothing being heard 
 of him for four or five years, and said wife then marries a sec- 
 ond husband, nothing being still heard of her former hus- 
 band. Years pass on, say twenty-five or six, she living with 
 the second husband all this time, and having children with 
 him, and nothing is still heard of her first husband. Now, 
 the said husband and wife make application to be received 
 into the church. How shall we proceed in such a case? 
 Answer: We think they might be received if the church 
 feels satisfied the first husband is not living. 
 
 Art. 55. Would it not be well for the standing commit- 
 tee of this Yearly Meeting to appoint a number of intelli- 
 gent and pious brethren to collect all the minutes that can 
 be obtained of our Yearly Meetings and have them printed 
 in a volume for the use and satisfaction of the churches ? 
 Considered, we think it not advisable to do so. 
 
 Art. 56. Is it advisable for ordained brethren to ordain 
 a ministering brother to the office of elder or bishop, who 
 permits his children, even while under lawful age, to wear 
 all manner of jewelry, and to learn instrumental music at 
 boarding schools, etc? Considered, not advisable. I.Tim. 
 ii. 9 ; in. 4, 5. 
 
 Art. 57. Can the brethren be in full communion with a 
 brother or a communion of brethren, who do not hold a 
 church council in receiving applicants for baptism, and 
 who do not ask those who are baptized to renounce the 
 devil and all the sinful practices of the world or flesh, and 
 who do not practically follow the doctrine of self-denial? 
 Considered, that we think such can not be in full commun- 
 ion with us. Acts x. 47 ; Prov. XV. 22 ; I. John n. 15-17 ; 
 Titus ii. 12. 
 
 Art. 58. Whereas, there is a strong desire among the 
 brethren in various places to have a more general exertion 
 made on the part of the church to have the truth more 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 223 
 
 universally spread; and, whereas, the subject has been fre- 
 quently talked of without any definite plan being proposed, 
 we, therefore, have concluded, by way of introduction, to 
 offer the following outlines of a plan, subject, however, to 
 such amendments as may from time to time be thought 
 best ; that is, let each state, where there is a respectable num- 
 ber of brethren, form a district ; let the brethren there hold 
 their annual meetings ; let each of these divisions have its 
 treasury ; let the churches that feel favorable, have their 
 treasury ; let the churches be called upon as often as may 
 be necessary to cast in their mite as a free-will offering. 
 Then let these contributions be put into the district treasury, 
 and let the district meetings appoint ministering brethren, 
 say two or more, if necessary (such as are willing to go), 
 to travel through the respective states for one year, their 
 expenses being paid, and such provision made for their 
 families as may be thought necessary. What does the 
 Annual Meeting think of this proposition? Considered, 
 that we think it not good to adopt this proposition, but 
 we believe it is a subject worthy the serious and prayerful 
 consideration of the brotherhood, and we recommend the 
 brethren to give it such a consideration. 
 
 Art. 59. Requests for committees: 1. A request for a 
 committee to visit Conestoga Church, Lancaster County, 
 Pennsylvania. The request was granted, and the followiug 
 brethren constitute the committee: John Glock, Samuel 
 Harley, Jacob Hollinger, Daniel Hollinger and Peter Long. 
 2. A request for a committee to visit Painter Creek Church, 
 Miami County, Ohio. The request was granted, and the 
 following brethren constitute the committee: John P. 
 Ebersole, John Metzger, Elias Dicky, George Shively, 
 Jacob Miller, of Portage, David Hardman, of Indiana, 
 George Hoover, Henry Davy and Abraham Moss. 3. A 
 request for a committee to visit the Owl Creek Church, 
 Knox County, Ohio. The request was granted, and the 
 following brethren constitute the committee : Elias Dicky, 
 
224 .MINUTES OF 
 
 Jacob Gerber, Peter Nead, Daniel Miller, John Metzger, 
 and Henry Davy. 
 
 Art. 60. Requests for the Annual Meeting : 1. A re- 
 quest from the Nettle Creek Church, Indiana, for the 
 meeting of 1860. 2. A request from the Limestone Church, 
 Washington County, Tennessee, for the meeting in 1860, 
 was renewed, and granted. 3. A request from the Clover 
 Creek Church, Blair County, Pennsylvania, was renewed. 
 4. A request from the Valley of Virginia for the meeting 
 in 1861. 5. The request from the Elk Creek Church, 
 Somerset County, Pennsylvania, being renewed, was 
 granted. Hence our next Yearly Meeting will be held, the 
 Lord willing, with the brethren in Somerset County, Penn- 
 sylvania, on Pentecost, 1859. Johnstown, on the Pennsyl- 
 vania Central Eailroad, the nearest point on that road, is 
 forty miles from the meeting-place. Cumberland, the nearest 
 est point on the Baltimore and Ohio road, is twenty-live miles 
 distant. Correspondence can be had with the following 
 brethren in the church where the meeting will be held : John 
 Berkley, Elias K. Beeghly, Daniel Beeghly, and Peter 
 Meyers, Meyers' Mills, Somerset County, Pennsylvania. 
 
 Standing Committee : George Hoke, John Brower, Peter 
 Xead, Daniel Miller, of Ohio ; John Berkley, of Pennsyl- 
 vania ; John Kline, Peter Kininger, of Virginia ; Isaac 
 Pfoutz, of Maryland; George [Shivery, John Metzger, 
 John Moyer, of Indiana; John Emmert, of Illinois." 
 
 D. P. Saylor, Clerk. 
 
 James Quinter, Assistant Clerk. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 225 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1859. 
 
 As usual, a large number of persons assembled on Satur- 
 day, and a meeting for worship was held in the afternoon. 
 On Lord's-day, the congregation being very large, arrange- 
 ments were made for having divine service performed at 
 three different places in the immediate vicinity of the place 
 designed for the General Council meeting. These meet- 
 ings were all well attended, and good attention given to 
 the Word preached. 
 
 On Monday morning the council-meeting was organized 
 by appointing the following standing committee : John 
 Kline, Jacob Thomas, Isaac Pfoutz, Daniel P. Sayler, John 
 II. Umstad, Peter Long, John P. Ebersole, Henry Davy,. 
 Jacob Miller, John Metzger, Samuel Layman, David Rit- 
 tenhouse, James Quinter, and John Berkley. Daniel P. 
 Sayler and James Quinter were appointed clerks, and Dan- 
 iel P. Sayler moderator. 
 
 The delegates then presented themselves, and the papers 
 addressed to the council were received ; and while business 
 was preparing, public worship was, as usual, held on Mon- 
 day. 
 
 There were represented, in this council-meeting, eighty- 
 seven congregations. The delegates representing these 
 congregations were divided into thirteen sub-committees, 
 and to them were committed the queries designed to come 
 before the General Council, in order that they might report 
 upon them. 
 
 On Tuesday morning the brethren assembled for business. 
 The meeting was opened with singing and prayer. After 
 this, the object of the meeting was explained. The com- 
 mittees then began to present their reports, and it was ascer- 
 tained that the following queries were before the meeting. 
 These were considered in the fear of God, and examined 
 15 
 
226 MINUTES OF 
 
 in the light of the Scriptures, and answered as herein 
 stated : 
 
 Article 1. How is it considered if an elder gets in debt, 
 and is sued, and is compelled to take the stay -law in order 
 to get time to make arrangements to pay the claim, and 
 pays it according to the time prescribed by law ? Answer : 
 \Ve consider that he could do no better under such circum- 
 stances. 
 
 Art. 2. How is it considered if a church holds a council 
 to consider the propriety of holding a love-feast, and all 
 the members present are jointly agreed to have a com- 
 munion meeting, and accordingly hold such a meeting; 
 but afterward a member will say we had no love-feast, and 
 will insist that it was only a meal, and not a love-feast? 
 Answer: We consider that it is wrong for a member to do 
 so, and that he should acknowledge it before the church to 
 be a fault, or be dealt with according to Matt, xviii. 
 
 Art. 3. How is it considered if a minister would pub- 
 licly teach that water baptism is not for the remission of 
 sins, but that a person must have an evidence within that 
 his sins are pardoned before he is a fit subject for baptism ; 
 and, also, would differ with brethren in the mode of elect- 
 ing brethren to the ministry, and likewise claims that all 
 members, both male and female, have a right to admonish 
 and exhort? Answer: Considered, that it is not accord- 
 ing to Acts ii. 38, and xxn. 16, to teach that a person must 
 have an evidence within that his sins are pardoned before 
 he is a fit subject for baptism, and that we know of no 
 better way for the brethren to elect their ministers than 
 that which has been practiced heretofore. And concerning 
 members exhorting, without being authorized by the 
 church, we think they should not do so in the church, in 
 our public or general meetings, according to I. Cor. xiv. 
 33-35. 
 
 Art. 4. As secret societies seem to be multiplying, and 
 as many young meu around us join them, and as some un- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 227 
 
 dertake a defense of them, it seems necessary that our 
 minds need to be frequently stirred up upon this matter. 
 Then, as we profess to be followers of Him who said, "In 
 secret have I done nothing," will the Yearly Meeting, 
 through its proceedings, come up to the side of our Lord? 
 Answer : We consider that members should not participate 
 in any secret or oath-bound societies whatever ; and if, after 
 they have been duly admonished, they persist in such par- 
 ticipation, we consider the church is justifiable in excom- 
 municating them. 
 
 Art. 5. Inasmuch as the ceremony used by the brethren, 
 in receiving members into the church, is thought, by a large 
 proportion of the brethren, to be of too great length, might 
 it not be shortened? And, instead of the questions being 
 asked in the water, would it not be more consistent to ask 
 them in the house, or on the bank of the river or stream ? 
 Answer: We do not consider it good to make any altera- 
 tions from the present practice of the brethren. 
 
 Art. 6. Have the brethren the privilege of singing a 
 hymn or two without lining them, if some brother men- 
 tions the page, before the commencement of worship, while 
 the congregation is assembling ? And have ministering 
 brethren the privilege to read a hymn, before lining and 
 •singing, at the opening of the public service? Answer: 
 We consider these queries of but little import ; but as sing- 
 ing is a part of divine worship, it should be conducted in 
 order by those engaging in it. And whether a hymn 
 should, or should not, be read previously to lining it, may 
 be left to the option of those proposing the hymns. 
 
 Art. 7. Does the gospel admit of female preaching ? and, 
 if it does, shall they not have authority from the church 
 under whose jurisdiction they are? Answer: As Paul 
 recognizes a distinction, in Rom. xn. 6, 7, between teaching, 
 ministering, and prophesying, and as he evidently approves 
 of females prophesying (I. Cor. XI. 5), we then think that 
 a female can not teach or preach, according to I. Cor. xiv. 
 
228 MINUTES OF 
 
 34; I. Tim. n. 12, in the ordinary acceptation of those 
 terms, yet we can not, under all, forbid them to prophesy. 
 
 Art. 8. Shall the answer to the seventeenth query of 
 1858 continue as it is there given ? Answer : We consider 
 it best to leave it as it is. The query and answer above 
 referred to, are as follows : 
 
 "Is it right for a speaker to sing a hymn, or a part of a 
 hymn, at the time of the communion, when the wine is 
 passing round? Considered, it is right to do so." 
 
 Art. 9. Is it considered to be right to call prayer-meet- 
 ings social meetings? Answer: It is considered right to 
 do so. 
 
 Art. 10. If a brother has held meetings according to the 
 twenty-sixth article of the minutes of 1858 (there being few 
 members, and none of the' ministers of the district in which 
 the meeting was held, present), and would, to his knowl- 
 edge, receive a person that is a Freemason into the church, 
 without renouncing more of Masonry than just the wear- 
 ing of the badge and the marching in parade ; and the 
 ministers and members of the district in which said mem- 
 ber resides would afterward require a full renunciation, 
 and he would refuse, and still claim the privilege of attend- 
 ing the lodge, etc., justifying himself by saying he had 
 made no such promise at his reception ; what shall be done 
 in such a case? Answer: If such a brother shall refuse to 
 hear the church, he shall be dealt with according to Matt. 
 xvin. 17. 
 
 Art. 11. Inasmuch as the brethren, in Annual Council, 
 last year, in Art. 8, decided that the public practical use of 
 the spiritual gifts, such as exhortation, teaching, doctrine, 
 and prophesying, seem to be the duties and privileges be- 
 longing to the officers of the church ; now, where the bishop, 
 with the majority of his members, are not willing to be 
 governed and regulated by the above decision, and where, 
 also, some of them disregard other decisions of the Annual 
 Conference, such as forbid holding in fellowship those who 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 229 
 
 will not renounce Freemasonry, taking part, in debating 
 schools, and holding offices under the civil government, 
 and say that the brethren, in conference last year, decided 
 in favor of things which were not in accordance with the 
 gospel. What shall the minority in such a church do ? 
 To whom shall they apply to have such bishop and mem- 
 bers regulated according to the order of the brethren and 
 the Bible ? Answer: Such a minority of brethren in a 
 church have full privilege to call brethren from another 
 arm of the church, in order to investigate and adjust mat- 
 ters, upon the condition that said minority apprise the ma- 
 jority of their intention to call brethren, should they think 
 it best to call for assistance from other churches. 
 
 Art. 12. Is it wrong for one brother to take a note of 
 another brother? And is it wrong for the holder of the 
 note to exchange it for a piece of land, after it was due 
 (three years), by withholding the collection of the note for 
 the time specified by the giver of the note? And is it 
 wrong to ask a mortgage to secure such a note, where the 
 giver mortgages all his property out of his hands ? An- 
 swer: "We do not consider it wrong. This answer is de- 
 signed for each of the above questions. 
 
 Art. 13. Is it right for a member of the church to have 
 his property set off, where the law allows a certain amount, 
 say three hundred dollars? Answer: We think it is not 
 right. 
 
 Art. 14. What shall we do when brethren, and even 
 speakers and bishops, attend yearly the county fairs? An- 
 swer: Such brethren should be admonished not to attend 
 such places, and if they still persist in doing so, they should 
 be dealt with according to Matt, xviii. 
 
 Art. 15. How is it considered when a bishop moves from 
 his district into a third district, and takes no letter of rec- 
 ommendation along with him, but wants to retain the over- 
 sight of the church he has left, and says he will still keep 
 his standing in that church during his life, although he is 
 
230 MINUTES OF 
 
 frequently absent from their regular meetings ? Answer : 
 He should have a letter of recommendation from the 
 church from which he moved, and if the distance is not 
 too great, he may still retain the oversight of that church, 
 while his doing so may produce no difficulties. 
 
 Art. 16. We wish to know how to proceed with a 
 brother, who resides in one branch of the church, but does 
 not attend council-meetings and love-feasts in the branch 
 in which he resides, but when there are love-feasts in the 
 adjoining districts he attends them. Answer: Such a 
 brother should be visited, and the cause why he does not 
 attend the meetings in his own congregation ascertained. 
 (See Heb. x. 23-25.) And if he should be disobedient 
 
 (see Matt. xvm. 17.) 
 
 Art. 17. A man's wife leaves him for no just cause, and 
 she then obtains a bill of divorcement; after this she mar- 
 ries another man; and then, in consequence of this, the 
 husband left, was divorced, and also marries another woman,, 
 after some time, with whom he is now living; and he hav- 
 ing become convinced of the truth, has made application for 
 baptism. Can he be received into the church? Answer: 
 We think he can not, while living with the last woman as 
 a husband. (See I. Cor. vn. 10, 11.) 
 
 Art. 18. Is it considered in order for a ministering 
 brother to refuse to labor at home, while he goes out and 
 fills appointments in neighboring churches ? Answer : We 
 consider such a course inconsistent with the spirit of the 
 gospel, but recommend that all such questions be investi- 
 gated at home, in the churches in which they originate. 
 
 Art. 19. Is it right for brethren to salute with the holy 
 kiss expelled members, when such go through other dis- 
 tricts, and are known by the brethren to be expelled? 
 Answer: We consider it not right to do so; and any 
 brother or sister saluting a person whom he or she knows 
 was expelled, should be admonished, and if he refuses to 
 hear the admonition, he should be dealt with according to- 
 Matt, xvm. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 231 
 
 Art. 20. Is it agreeable with the gospel for members to 
 hold prayer-meetings, or, what they are some times called, 
 social meetings, and to invite members of other denomina- 
 tions to unite with us in prayer? Answer: We consider 
 it agreeable with the gospel to hold such meetings, when 
 they are strictly held in order; but as we do not call upon 
 our own members, individually, to pray, it is not in our or- 
 der of holding such meetings, to call on those of other de- 
 nominations to pray. 
 
 Art. 21. A man marries his uncle's wife, but afterward 
 thinks he discovers it forbidden in Levit. xviii. 14, and xx. 
 20, and separates from her. He then marries another 
 woman. He now desires to be received into the church. 
 Can he be received, as the first woman is still living, and 
 in a married connection with another man? Answer: 
 According to the civil law, the first marriage would be con- 
 sidered lawful, and, consequently, the second marriage is 
 contrary to the gospel, and he can not, therefore, be re- 
 ceived into the church by baptism, while he, and the woman 
 with whom he is living, are living together in the relation 
 of man and wife. 
 
 Art. 22. Is it according to the gospel, and the rules of 
 the brethren, for a brother in the second degree of the min- 
 istry to appoint a prayer-meeting, without the consent of 
 the bishop and other brethren in the church ? Answer: 
 We think it is not. The Apostle Paul declares that God 
 is a God of order, and such a course does not seem to be 
 in order. And the Apostle Peter's language (I. Peter v. 5, 
 6) would likewise seem to disapprove of such a course. 
 
 Art. 23. In those states where muster fines are high, and 
 where the fines are the only means w T hereby the military 
 musters are kept up, would it not be better for brethren to 
 muster a few times and thereby cause the military system 
 to be abolished, than to pay an oppressive fine and thereby 
 keep up the regimental muster ? Answer : It would not, 
 inasmuch as our Lord and Savior teaches non-resistance in 
 
232 MINUTES OF 
 
 gospel throughout. And when we go to musters we there 
 learn the art of war, and the most appropriate method of 
 shedding our fellow-creatures' blood. (See II. Cor. vi. 17; 
 John xviii. 36.) 
 
 Art. 24. Is it becoming for members of the church of 
 Christ to get the walls of their houses flowered, or papered 
 with flowered paper ? Answer : We exhort all of our dear 
 brethren to humility, for the apostle says (Rom. xn. 2), " Be 
 not conformed to this world," etc. Humility is one of the 
 prominent principles taught by our dear Redeemer, in pre- 
 cept and example. We ought, therefore, to try and abstain 
 from superfluities. 
 
 Art. 25. In case brethren put a bell on their meeting- 
 house, will their course be approved by the Yearly Meeting ? 
 Answer : This Annual Meeting can not approve of brethren 
 doing so. 
 
 Art. 26. Does the gospel, in any case, allow a member 
 of the church to use the power of the law in collecting a 
 debt, or in defense of his rights? And if going to law is 
 wrong, does the sanction of the church make it right ? 
 We also desire queries thirty-two and forty-nine of the 
 minutes of 1858, to be reconsidered by this Annual Meet- 
 ing. Answer: We can not give our members liberty to go 
 to law ; and if any of them do go to law, the congregation 
 in which such reside shall take the case up and act on it as 
 it thinks the gospel requires. This answer, it was thought, 
 is sufficient for the whole query, as the different points in 
 it refer to the same general subject. 
 
 Art. 27. In relation to the questions from Owl Creek 
 Church, Knox County, Ohio, growing out of the serious 
 difficulties which that church has concerning its meeting- 
 house, the following advice was given : We consider it be3t 
 that the brethren, in meekness and patience, wait for the 
 further manifestation of^the will of God upon the matter. 
 And it was recommended that the case be remembered by 
 the brethren in general in prayer. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 233 
 
 Art. 28. Seeing the great necessity of having the gospel, 
 as held and praticed by the brethren, more extensively 
 spread and known, we desire that the brethren in this 
 Annual Council reconsider the fifty- eighth article of the 
 minutes of 1858, and adopt it with such amendments as, 
 in the fear of the Lord, may seem best. As it was recom- 
 mended by the last Annual Meeting to make the subject ot 
 spreading the gospel one of prayerful consideration, it 
 appears it was done ; and several churches have expressed 
 their wish to this Annual Council meeting to have it take 
 a favorable action upon the subject, the following is the 
 conclusion this Annual Meeting has come to in relation to 
 what is referred to in this article. This meeting recom- 
 mend and give liberty to any of the districts or states to 
 make a move on the subject of spreading and sustaining 
 the gospel, as preached and understood by the brethren, so 
 that the same may be done in the order of the gospel. 
 And we recommend to those churches which may adopt 
 this to make a report to the next Annual Meeting upon 
 their success. And, in view of the importance of the sub- 
 ject, we appoint the following brethren as a committee to 
 propose some plan by which the brotherhood in general 
 may take a part in this good work; said plan to be 
 reported to the next Annual Meeting : Daniel P. Sayler, 
 John Kline, John H. Umstad, Samuel Layman, John 
 Metzger, and James Quinter. Daniel P. Sayler is the cor- 
 responding member of the committee. 
 
 Art. 29. Can a minister, who is not ordained, with the 
 counsel of the church, expel a member, or must there be 
 an ordained elder present? Answer: It is not necessary 
 for an ordained elder to be present, if the member to be 
 expelled is a private member. 
 
 Art. 30. If a brother in the ministry or deaconship move 
 from one congregation to another, having a certificate of 
 good standing in his office, has the congregation to which 
 he moved a right to refuse to receive him with his office ? 
 Answer : We consider they have not. 
 
234 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 31. Is it according to the gospel and its principles 
 for brethren of our fraternity to salute with the holy kiss 
 those who do not stand in the faith with us, nor practice 
 or keep the ordinances of the Lord as we do ? And is it 
 according to the gospel to call such brethren, and give them 
 liberty to take part in our public worship? Answer: As 
 a general thing we do not think it is expedient to do so. 
 
 Art. 32. How is it considered when ministering brethren 
 from one church will come into another church and preach 
 with an expelled bishop, who is building up a church of 
 his own, and also visit all of the dissatisfied members, 
 causing much confusion and dissatisfaction in the church 
 by doing so; and when lay members go to hear him preach 
 who has been expelled ? Answer : "We consider it wrong 
 to do so. And such brethren should be admonished, and 
 if they will not be submissive and acknowledge, they 
 should be dealt with according to the gospel. 
 
 Art. 33. If a member of a church moves from one con- 
 gregation into another, and is afterward called back again 
 by the said congregation from which he had moved, for 
 some offense, and is expelled ; he then applies for member- 
 ship to the congregation he now lives in, but is sent back 
 by it to the congregation that expelled him to see whether 
 it could release him or be reconciled with him, and it does 
 release him upon his confession and repentance. Now 
 which congregation is to receive him into membership ? 
 Answer : He should be received by the same church that ex- 
 pelled him, and that church should give him a certificate, and 
 that will give him a membership in the church to which he 
 has removed. 
 
 Art. 34. Is it according to the gospel for brethren, when 
 giving admonition to the church after the annual visit has 
 been made, to name members against whom something is 
 alleged, in General Council, or shall we proceed with them 
 according to the eighteenth chapter of Matthew ? Answer : 
 "We ought to proceed according to the eighteenth chapter 
 of Matthew, except in cases of open violation of the gospel. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 235 
 
 Art. 35. Several communications were sent to this An- 
 nual Meeting from the brethren hitherto distinguished as 
 Western brethren. From these communications we shall 
 give some extracts, as we have not room upon the minutes 
 to give them entire: 
 
 " Beloved Brethren : We, the brethren in Adams County, 
 Illinois, met together in council to take into consideration 
 the course we had best adopt respecting the Yearly Meet- 
 ing. On account of the great distance we are from the 
 place of meeting, and none of us being in a situation suit- 
 able to take such a journey, we have concluded to send 
 you these lines to inform you that after we received the 
 minutes of last conference, held in In,diana, we called a 
 church council, and we concluded, for the sake of union in 
 the brotherhood, to adopt the minutes of last Yearly Meet- 
 ing, and we intend to carry them out as near as circum- 
 stances will admit of. * * * * 
 
 "We further state that we are willing to counsel and be 
 counseled by the Yearly Meeting." Signed by Elder 
 George Wolf, and others, by order of the church. 
 
 The following extract is from a letter from Sugar Creek 
 Church, Sangamon County, Illinois : 
 
 " We have unanimously agreed to be fully united with 
 our beloved elder brethren, to counsel and be counseled. 
 And we have put in practice the order in receiving and 
 baptizing members, non-swearing and non-conformity to 
 the world." Signed by Elder Isham Gibson, and others, 
 by order of the church. 
 
 From the brethren in Hurricane Creek district, Bond 
 County, Illinois : 
 
 "Dear Brethren in the Lord : Considering your love and 
 care for us as manifested by your kind forbearance and 
 .' long suffering toward us, we in love to you and all saints, 
 thought it good to send you this epistle, and also brother 
 Daniel B. Sturgis, delegate from this district, witnessing 
 that we desire full fellowship and union. And we unani- 
 
236 MINUTES OF 
 
 mously agree to be counseled by the brethren, and submit 
 to all the decisions of our beloved brethren in conference. 
 We believe the best good of all is maintained by a full 
 subjection to the decisions of the Yearly Meetings, pub- 
 lished in the minutes." Signed by Daniel B. Sturgis, and 
 others, by order of the church. 
 
 The following is the expression of this Annual Meeting 
 upon the subject referred to in the above communica- 
 tions : Whereas, it is known that what have been called the 
 Western brethern have not heretofore been in perfect 
 union with our churches in observing the ordinances and 
 regulations in the house of God; and, whereas, a number 
 of communications have come before this council-meeting 
 from said brethren, expressing a strong desire to be in full 
 fellowship with our brotherhood, and promising to submit 
 to and be governed by the rules by which we think the 
 house of God should be governed ; therefore, considered 
 that we have cause to thank God that the efforts made to 
 bring about a union have been so successful, and we are 
 now happy to recongnize them as being in full fellowship 
 with us. 
 
 Art. 36. Kequests for committees : 1. A request for a 
 committee to visit Sugar Creek Church, Tuscarawas 
 County, Ohio, to investigate grievances. The request was 
 granted, and the following brethren constitute the commit- 
 tee : Elias Dicky, Henry Davy, Jacob Garver, of Mohickon, 
 Ohio. 2. A request for a committee to visit Upper Conowago 
 Church, Adams County, Pennsylvania. The request was 
 granted, and the following brethren constitute the commit- 
 tee : Peter Long, Philip Boyle and Christian Keefer. 
 
 Art. 37. A resolution was passed returning thanks to 
 those railroad companies which took persons attending 
 the meeting over their roads for half fare. 
 
 Art. 38. Requests for the Annual Meeting. 1. A request 
 from the Clover Creek Church, Blair County, Pennsyl- 
 vania, for 1861. 2. A request from Hagerstown, Wayne 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 237 
 
 County, Indiana, for 1860. 3. A request from the Valley 
 of Virginia for 1861. 4. A request from the Miami Valley, 
 Ohio, for the Annual Meeting whenever the brethren 
 assembled in Annual Council think it suitable to appoint it 
 there. The request from the brethren of Limestone Con- 
 gregation, Tennessee, was renewed and granted. Our next 
 Annual Meeting, therefore, will be held, the Lord willing, 
 with the brethren in Washington County, Tennessee, on 
 Pentecost, 1860. Brethren coming to the meeting will 
 come to Limestone depot, on the East Tennessee & Vir- 
 ginia Railroad, which will be about three miles from the 
 place of meeting. Correspondence can be held with the 
 following brethren : Emanuel Arnold, David B. Klepper, 
 and Jacob Nead, Broylesville, Washington County, Ten- 
 nessee. 
 
 Standing committee, etc. : John Kline, Jacob Thomas,, 
 of Virginia; Daniel P. Sayler, Isaac Pfoutz, of Maryland; 
 John P. Ebersole, Henry Davy, James Quinter, of Ohio ; 
 Jacob Miller, John Metzger, of Indiana; Samuel Layman, 
 David Rittenhouse, of Illinois ; John H. Umstad, Peter 
 Long, John Berkley, of Pennsylvania. 
 
 D P • Sayler, l clk8# 
 
 J. QUINTER. J 
 
 D. P. Sayler, Moderator 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1860. 
 
 It having been announced that the meeting would com- 
 mence on Saturday, accordingly, at an early hour in the 
 morning, a large congregation was assembled for worship, 
 and public meetings for worship were held on Saturday, 
 Sunday, and on the morning of Monday. The best accom- 
 modations were made that could be made on the occasion, 
 for affording the people present facilities for hearing the 
 
233 MINUTES OF 
 
 gospel preached, and a good degree of attention was given, 
 and considerable interest manifested. 
 
 On Monday morning the council-meeting was organized 
 by appointing the following standing committee: Peter 
 ISTead, J. P. Ebersole, John Metzger, Christian Long, Henry 
 Koontz, John Kline, Daniel Barnhart, Abraham Neff, and 
 Peter Nininger. Daniel P. Sayler and James Quinter were 
 appointed clerks, and Daniel P. Sayler moderator. 
 
 The delegates then presented themselves to the standing 
 committee, and the various papers addressed to the council 
 were received. 
 
 The representation in this Annual Council was unusually 
 small, there being but few delegates from Ohio, Indiana, 
 Illinois, and Iowa, and none at all from Pennsylvania and 
 New Jersey. There were represented in the council but 
 sixty churches. The delegates present were divided into 
 five sub-committees, and to these were committed the pa- 
 pers designed to come before the General Council, in order 
 that they might report upon them. 
 
 On Monday afternoon the brethren assembled in council 
 for business. The meeting was opened with devotional 
 exercises. The object of the meeting was then stated, 
 after which the committees began to present their reports, 
 and it was ascertained that the following queries for 
 consideration were before the council. They were consid- 
 ered in the fear of God, and examined in the light of the 
 Scriptures, and answered as herein stated. 
 
 The first business in order before the meeting was the 
 report of the committee, appointed by the last Annual 
 Meeting (see Minutes of 1859, Art. 28), to prepare ^and 
 report a plan for the work of evangelism. Accordingly, 
 the committee, to whom the matter was referred, presented 
 the following report : 
 
 The committee appointed at the Annual Meeting in 1859, 
 twenty-eighth article, to propose some plan to the present 
 meeting by which the brotherhood in general may take 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 239 
 
 some part in the good work of the Lord in preaching the 
 gospel more generally, reports as follows: Whereas, the 
 preaching of the gospel to every creature is a command of 
 Christ, since he said to his disciples, " Go ye into all the 
 world, and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark xvi. 
 15), and therefore a duty enjoined upon all his disciples. 
 Hence, it needs no argument in its defense. The only point 
 to be considered is, How shall it be done? Now St. Paul 
 says, "Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges?" 
 (I. Cor. ix. 7) ; and as the Lord Jesus gave every man his 
 work, as well as his servants authority. Mark xiii. 34 : 
 " For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, 
 who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and 
 to every man his work." It is, therefore, evident that he 
 did not mean that his ministering servants should be bur- 
 dened with the duty of preaching his word, and also hear- 
 ing the expenses incurred in traveling from place to place, 
 while all the members of the body remain idle. The com- 
 mittee understands the Lord Jesus to mean that the church, 
 his body on earth (I. Cor. xn. 27), shall, unitedly, preach 
 his gospel in all the world, by the ministry, through the 
 Holy Ghost; and, therefore, the church should pray the 
 Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers, for so Jesus 
 commanded his disciples, saying: "The harvest truly is 
 plenteous, but the laborers are few ; pray ye, therefore, the 
 Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into 
 his harvest." Matt. ix. 37, 38. And it appears, from the 
 following account in Acts xiii. 2, 3, that this was the prac- 
 tice of the apostolic church: "As they ministered to the 
 Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barna- 
 bas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. 
 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands 
 on them, they sent them away." 
 
 And, in view of the above considerations, the committee 
 offers the following advice: That the churches of the 
 brotherhood form themselves into districts, the brethren in 
 
240 MINUTES OF 
 
 those districts to meet as often as they may judge it neces 
 sary to transact their business ; that each of said districts 
 has its treasury, and each one of the churches which form 
 said districts has its treasury, the former to be supplied out 
 of the latter, and the latter to be supplied by weekly con- 
 tributions, as directed by the Apostle Paul (I. Cor. xvi. 2) : 
 " Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay 
 by him in store, as God has prospered him, that there be 
 no gathering when I come," — a plan for raising pecuniary 
 funds, of divine appointment, and is one which commends 
 itself to our acceptance, both from its authority and excel- 
 lency. 
 
 And in order that the funds collected may be the most 
 judiciously, satisfactorily, and economically applied, we 
 advise that each sub-district or church appoint at least one 
 delegate to attend the general district meetings, and that 
 these meetings so dispose of the funds collected as they 
 shall judge most conducive to the glory of God and the 
 salvation of souls. And in order to preserve a proper har- 
 mony between all the congregations of the brotherhood, 
 we further advise that each general district meeting sends 
 a delegate to the Annual Meeting, and 03- the delegate a 
 report of its proceedings, that all such proceedings may be 
 in harmony with the regulations, as made by the brethren 
 assembled in Annual Council, and subject to the inspection 
 and control of that body. And in case any demands of a 
 general character for evangelists are made, sufficiently so 
 to require the action of the Annual Meeting, then, in that 
 case, the funds needed to defray the expenses of said evan- 
 gelists shall be drawn from the treasuries of the several dis- 
 tricts. 
 
 And as the conviction of mind seems to be general among 
 the brethren that greater exertion should be made by the 
 brotherhood to have the gospel preached in every place, 
 the committee would remind the ministry that the forego- 
 ing plan is by no means designed to supersede the labors 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 241 
 
 of our ministers in their individual capacities. But we 
 recommend to all our preachers to labor, as they have been 
 accustomed to do, without money and without price, as far 
 as their circumstances will permit them to do so, showing, 
 as they have hitherto done, in a remarkable degree, the 
 Christian grace of self-denial — a grace which shone brightly 
 in the life of our divine Master, and which occupies a 
 prominent place in his teaching. 
 
 We further recommend to all our preachers to submit 
 the above plan to their congregations, hoping that it will 
 meet with their acceptance. 
 
 All of which is respectfully submitted by the committee, 
 D. P. Sayler, John Kline, John Metzger, James Quinter. 
 
 The committee appointed by the last Annual Meeting to 
 report a plan to the present meeting for the work of evan- 
 gelism, presented the above report, and it was considered 
 that this Annual Meeting thinks it best, as there are so few 
 churches represented, not to adopt it as the work of this 
 meeting, but postpones it for the consideration of the next 
 Annual Meeting, and concludes it best to have it entered 
 upon the minutes for the examination of the brethren. 
 But while this council-meeting can not, for the reason 
 above given, adopt the prepared report, it acknowledges 
 the necessity of increased efforts among us to spread the 
 gospel, and still gives the liberty that was given by the last 
 Annual Council, to any of the churches which may see 
 their way open to do so, to engage in the work of evan- 
 gelism. 
 
 Hereupon the following queries were considered : 
 
 Article 1. Inasmuch as we publicly denounce (human) 
 church discipline, and claim the New Testament Scriptures 
 as the only rule of our faith and practice, is it, then, con- 
 sistent with our profession to make a strict observance of 
 the minutes of the Annual Council a test of fellowship ? 
 Answer: The decisions of the Annual Meeting are obliga- 
 16 
 
242 MINUTES OF 
 
 tory until such decisions shall be repealed by the same au- 
 thority. 
 
 Art. 2. Ought not Art. 33, of the minutes of 1859, be 
 reconsidered? (The article referred to is this : "If a mem- 
 ber of a church moves from one congregation into another, 
 and is afterward called back again by the said congregation 
 from which he had moved, for some offense, and is expelled : 
 he then applies for membership to the congregation he now 
 lives in, but is sent back by it to the congregation that ex- 
 pelled him, to see whether it could release him, or be recon- 
 ciled with him, and it does release him upon his confession 
 and repentance. ISTow, which congregation is to receive 
 him into membership?") Answer: The expelled member 
 must be received by the church that expelled him, or make 
 full satisfaction to that church, in person or by letter, and 
 then he can be received into the church in which he lives. 
 
 Art. 3. What is to be done with the following cas.e : A 
 brother buys real estate, and becomes much involved in 
 debt by borrowing money, and otherwise, and then, to se- 
 cure some one or two of his creditors, mortgages all of his 
 real estate to them. He afterward appoints a trustee to sell 
 his property, which does not cover the liens against it, and 
 the wife, who is a sister, takes from the trustee a portion 
 of the personal property, in consideration of her relinquish- 
 ing her potential right of dower, while much money will 
 be lost by the creditors? Answer: If the church in which 
 the case exists is satisfied that there was no intention to de- 
 fraud, on the part of the brother, and that the sister, by 
 taking the personal property, as stated, was an advantage, 
 rather than a disadvantage, in the sale of the real estate, it 
 may retain them as members under a satisfactory ackuowl- 
 edgment. 
 
 Art. 4. Shall it be an order among the brethren to re- 
 ceive persons into the church as members, when they are 
 sick, without baptism, with the promise that they will be 
 baptized when they get well? Answer: Let persons who 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 243 
 
 wish to be received into the church, and who are too sick 
 to have the ordinance of baptism administered to them, be 
 considered candidates for baptism, to receive the ordinance 
 as soon as circumstances will permit, but not in full mem- 
 bership until they are baptized. 
 
 Art. 5. How is it considered when members of the 
 church, that are sick, call for the elders of the church, and 
 are anointed according to the gospel, and then again resort 
 to the use of medicine ; is it wrong to do so ? Answer : 
 We do not consider it wrong, according to the gospel, to 
 do so. 
 
 Art. 6. As we see a difference in the words used in 
 anointing the sick, we therefore ask for the most proper 
 ceremony and manner for observing the same, according to 
 the gospel and practice of the old brethren. Answer: As 
 the difference is not stated in the query, we know of noth- 
 ing better than that which the brethren have given us in 
 the appendix to the minutes of 1853. The following is the 
 order referred to : 
 
 About the anointing of the sick. (See Art. 43.) (From 
 the minutes of the Yearly Meeting, in Augusta County, 
 Virginia, in the year 1827.) 
 
 ******* 
 
 Of the order of anointing the sick. The order has ever 
 been, in the first place to sing a few lines, and to turn to 
 God in a united prayer. Then (there ought always to be 
 two brethren) the one holds out his hand, and the other 
 pours the oil on it, and the first putteth the same on the 
 head of the sick, and says the words which the Apostle 
 James teacheth (chap. v. 14) : " Thou art anointed in the 
 name of the Lord," and thus three times, but the words 
 only once said. Then both brethren lay their hands upon 
 che head of the sick, and pray over him ; for it is not con- 
 sidered to be intended only an inward unction, but an out- 
 ward anointing, whereof the apostle speaks, as mentioned 
 before. 
 
244 MINUTES OF 
 
 (From manuscript accounts of elder brethren concerning 
 the same, and exhibiting it more particularly.) As regards 
 the anointing, it requires two brethren in order to perform 
 it according to the advice of the apostle, since he says : 
 "Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them 
 pray over him." These words require more than one. 
 Now, when we are going to perform the same, the first we 
 do, after singing a few appropriate lines and briefly ex- 
 horting, is to turn to God, unitedly, and to pray God for a 
 blessing upon ourselves, upon the sick member, and upon 
 all, as we do in a meeting, and there is liberty to pray for 
 all the brethren present. If time will permit, and strangers 
 are present, the passage from James v. may be read, as far 
 as relates to this matter, and briefly commented' upon. 
 Then the sick member is raised to a sitting posture, and 
 the elder brother reacheth forth his hand, and the other 
 brother pours the oil upon it, which he, the first, puts upon 
 the head of the sick, and thus three times saying the words 
 of the apostle : " Thou art anointed in the name of the 
 Lord, unto the strengthening of thy faith, unto the com- 
 forting of thy conscience, and unto a full assurance of the 
 remission of thy sins," or as the Lord may give utterance ; 
 and then the brethren both put their hands on the sick, 
 even as it is done when a brother is ordained, and pray 
 chiefly for the sick member. Such an example we have 
 of the Savior, as we see in Mark vi. 15, and xvi. 18, and 
 this is the order the brethren have administered the same. 
 Brethren, also, who are not ordained, may administer it in 
 cases of necessity. 
 
 # ;je $ sf: sfc * sfs 
 
 Art. 7. How is it considered when a brother has been 
 elected to the ministry, but who has never exercised in his 
 office, and who has no confidence in his ability to be useful, 
 asks, after eighteen months from the time he was elected 
 to the office, to be released from serving? Answer: "We 
 think the time specified above is too short to try a brother, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 245 
 
 and we think the brethren had better encourage such a 
 brother to speak and exercise in his office, but let him not 
 be over urged. 
 
 Art. 8. Inasmuch as in the minutes of 1849, tenth query, 
 the stock of railroads and banks are coupled together, we 
 desire the Annual Meeting of 1860 to consider each subject 
 separately, and to give an answer to each. Answer: We 
 advise brethren not to invest their money in bank stock at 
 all, and would advise them to be cautious of all incorporated 
 companies. 
 
 Art. 9. We, the brethren, assembled in general district 
 council, at the Valley meeting-house, in Botetourt County, 
 Virginia, desire that the brethren in the Annual Council 
 meeting of 1860 devise some plan or way to remodel, or 
 enlarge by appendix, our hymn-book, so as to satisfy the 
 wants of the brethren. Answer: To comply with the 
 above request, this Annual Meeting appoints a commit- 
 tee of five to make a new hymn-book, with the under- 
 standing that as many of the hymns in the present book 
 as possible be retained. The following brethren constitute 
 the committee: James Quinter, Ohio; Samuel Garber, Illi- 
 nois; John Metzger, Indiana; John H. Umstad, Pennsyl- 
 vania; John Kline, Virginia. 
 
 Art. 10. A brother has a wife, who is not a member of 
 the church, and she refuses to live with him peaceably; and 
 having been living apart from him for more than two years, 
 the brethren acquainted with the circumstances believing 
 the wife to be the cause of the trouble, she now demands 
 a divorce. Xow, brethren, we would be very glad if you 
 will give us advice in this case. Answer: We think a 
 brother can not grant or accept of a divorce for any cause 
 but that of fornication. "But I say unto you, that whoso- 
 ever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of forni- 
 cation, causeth her to commit adultery; and whosoever 
 shall marry her that is divorced, committeth adultery." 
 Matt. v. 32; I. Cor. vn. 15. 
 
246 . MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 11. Is it consistent with the order of the brethren, 
 and the gospel, to receive a member into the church with- 
 out the counsel of the church, when it is practicable to have 
 a council? Answer: It is not consistent. 
 
 Art. 12. Whereas, the brethren in California and Oregon 
 have earnestly desired and requested a delegation of two 
 or three brethren to be sent, by the Annual Council of the- 
 brethren, to encourage and strengthen them, and "to set in 
 order the things needed" for a proper organization of 
 churches according to the gospel of Christ, as well as to 
 preach the gospel where Christ is not known. The meet- 
 ing, therefore, receiving with favor the request, came to the 
 following conclusion concerning the subject : It was decided 
 that the standing committee of this Annual Meeting form 
 a board for the purpose of corresponding with brethren,, 
 and of ascertaining if any seem to be called to the work, 
 and of judging of their fitness for it, and for making the 
 necessary arrangements for carrying out the purpose of this 
 Annual Meeting, to comply with the request from the breth- 
 ren in California and Oregon. And in order to obtain the 
 necessary pecuniary aid, this meeting recommends to all the 
 churches to make contributions for the purpose, and to re- 
 port to the board the result of their operations. James 
 Quinter, of Columbiana, Columbiana County, Ohio, was 
 appointed corresponding secretary, and Daniel P. Sayler, 
 Double Pipe Creek, Carroll County, Maryland, treasurer. 
 
 Art. 13. Requests for committees : .1. A request for a 
 committee to visit the Limestone congregation, in Wash- 
 ington County, Tennessee, to settle existing difficulties. 
 The request was granted, and the following brethren con- 
 stitute the committee: John Wine, Martin Miller, Jacob 
 Miller, Peter Crumpacker, Benjamin Moomaw, Jacob Wine, 
 and Martin Garber. 2. This Annual Meeting ascertaining 
 that difficulties exist in the church in Cedar County, Mis- 
 souri, appoints the following brethren as a committee to 
 visit said church, and to settle the difficulties: John Metz- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 247 
 
 ger, Jacob Brower, and David Brower. 3. A request for a 
 committee to visit the Ridge Church, in Cumberland County, 
 Pennsylvania, to investigate grievances therein existing. 
 The request was granted, and the following brethren were 
 appointed on the committee: Henry Koontz, Christian 
 Keefer, George Beer, Peter Long, and David Bosserman. 
 
 Art. 14. Requests for the Annual Meeting : 1. A request 
 from the Miami churches, Ohio, for the meeting of 1862, 
 was renewed. 2. The request from the Clover Creek Church, 
 Blair County, Pennsylvania, for the meeting of 1863, was 
 renewed. 3. A request from the "Wayne County Church, 
 Indiana, for the meeting of 1862. 4. A request from Ap- 
 panoose County Church, Iowa, for the meeting, but no time 
 named. 5. The request from the Valley of Virginia, for 
 the meeting of 1861, was renewed, and granted. Hence, 
 our next Annual Meeting will be held, the Lord willing, 
 with the brethren in the Valley of Virginia, on Pentecost, 
 1861. Beaver Creek congregation, Rockingham County, 
 has been selected as the place for the meeting. Corres- 
 pondence can be held with the following brethren : John 
 Wine, Martin Miller, and Daniel Thomas, Bridgewater. 
 Rockingham County, Virginia. Directions to brethren 
 coming to the Annual Meeting of 1861, by public convey- 
 ance : Those coming from the south and southwest, will 
 come to Staunton by railroad, and from that place to Mt. 
 Crawford, which is seven miles from the place of meeting. 
 Those coming from the northwest and east, will come by 
 the city of Washington, to Alexandria, and then take the 
 Manassas Gap Railroad to Mt. Jackson, and thence to 
 Harrisonburg by stage. The place of meeting is ten miles 
 from Harrisonburg. Further information will be given 
 through the "Visitor" in due time. 
 
 Standing committee, etc. : Peter Nead, J. P. Ebersole, of 
 Ohio; Henry Koontz, D. P. Sayler, of Maryland; John 
 Kline, Daniel Barnhart, Abraham XefY, Peter Nininger, of 
 
248 MINUTES OF 
 
 Virginia; John Metzger, of Indiana; Christian Long, of 
 Illinois. 
 
 D 1\ SayleM clerk8 . 
 
 J. QUINTER. j 
 
 D. P. Sayler, Moderator. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1861. 
 
 Pursuant to appointment made on Pentecost last at An- 
 nual Meeting in Washington County, Tennessee, the breth- 
 ren met in Annual Council. A very large congregation 
 having assembled, public worship was commenced on Sun- 
 day morning, at the usual time, and conducted at three 
 different places : in the meeting-house, in the tent, and in 
 the grove, at each of which places the people assembled in 
 dense crowds, as far as the speaker could be heard uuder- 
 standingly, and still there were many who did not get any 
 benefit of the preaching, for which there seemed to be an 
 ardent desire; so much so, that all the meeting-houses in 
 the surrounding country and villages were opened for our 
 use, and pressing invitations given to the brethren to oc- 
 cupy them. 
 
 It was therefore to be regretted that there were not more 
 ministering brethren present. The brethren here had also 
 made extensive preparations for the bodily comfort of those 
 who should be with them, and seemed to lament much that 
 the brethren from distant parts were not with them to share 
 in their hospitality, as well as in the spiritual feast they had 
 anticipated. Nevertheless, as there were many brethren 
 and sisters present, we enjoyed a feast of fat things to- 
 gether, forgetting, for the time being, the confusion of the 
 political affairs without, owing to which many of the 
 churches, composing our common fraternity, were not rep- 
 resented. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 24:9 
 
 But, not wishing, by any means, to change the regular 
 usages of the church whereby the fraternal bond of our 
 common brotherhood might be affected, we have, there- 
 fore, with those elders and brethren who have assembled, 
 after having dedicated ourselves anew to God, concluded 
 to proceed, with the business before us, in the regular way. 
 Accordingly, the queries presented were considered, and 
 disposed of in the manner following, to-wit : 
 
 Article 1. Are we to understand by the grant of social 
 meetings, as decided in Annual Meeting of 1858, to make 
 public appointments frequently where there is an organized 
 church and preaching every two weeks, and in conducting 
 them, liberty to be given to any brother or sister, or, if time 
 admit, for all to rise to their feet by course, and exhort ; 
 and, if not so to be understood, what will the Annual 
 Council say the order of social meetings shall be? Con- 
 sidered, that the order should be according to that rule laid 
 down by the apostle in I. Cor. xiv. 27-40. And to unite 
 with other professors in worship in our meetings is incon- 
 sistent with the gospel and the practice of the church. 
 
 Art. 2. Is it in harmony with the spirit of the gospel, 
 when brethren teach school, at the expiration of the term, 
 to hold exhibitions, attended with music ? Considered, 
 that it is not, and that brethren would better close by sing- 
 ing and prayer. (See James v. 13, and Eph. v. 19.) 
 
 Art. 3. Inasmuch as the brethren have decided, in con- 
 ference, that members who would not conform to the order 
 in dress as generally practiced by the old brethren and sis- 
 ters, that they could not have the privilege to the commun- 
 ion. But, as this does not restrain them into the order, we 
 wish to know whether the church has the right to deal with 
 them as offenders when they will not conform in dress or 
 to wearing caps, and leave oft* wearing hoops ? Considered, 
 that such members should be admonished, and that warmly, 
 too, to lay aside all superfluities and conform to the order 
 
250 MINUTES OF 
 
 of the church. Otherwise they must and will be regarded 
 as disobedient members. (See Romans xn.) 
 
 Art. 4. How would it be considered where a brother and 
 sister hold personal property and real estate, and the brother 
 dies; has the sister a right to take the benefit of the law 
 and hold three hundred dollars of the personal property 
 and one-third of the real estate, and by so doing so injure 
 the sale of the other two-thirds of the real estate that it 
 will not sell for near its value, aud will not pay more than 
 one-half of the indebtedness of the estate, whereas, if she 
 had let the whole of the land be sold together, it would 
 have paid all the debts, and then left to her one-third of 
 the money. Considered, that as it is impossible for all the 
 circumstances to be known in such cases to an Annual 
 Meeting, therefore such things ought to be settled by com- 
 mittees at home, selected by the parties and the church. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it considered right, according to the gospel, for 
 a member to hold forfeit-money under any circumstances 
 whatever? Considered, that it is not right when the holder 
 is not injured by the transaction, and if he is, he should 
 only keep enough to indemnify himself for such loss. 
 
 Art. 6. Will this Yearly Meeting grant the privilege to 
 reprint all the minutes of the Yearly Meetings, so that those 
 wishing to have them may have a full copy ? Kesolved, by 
 this Annual Meeting, that this subject should be attended 
 to, and we therefore recommend that a committee be ap- 
 pointed to gather up all the minutes, as far back as can be 
 had, and bring them together in such a way and form as 
 maybe thought best, and we hereby appoint brethren Henry 
 Kurtz, of Ohio, Andrew Spanogle, of Pennsylvania, John 
 Kline, of Virginia, Christian Long, of Illinois, and Philip 
 Boyle, of Maryland, to attend to said business, and report 
 to next Yearly Meeting. 
 
 Art. 7. Contains a remonstrance from the Sugar Creek 
 Church, Allen County, Ohio, as follows : "Having assem- 
 bled in council, and having under consideration the mis- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 251 
 
 sionary question, we, the church aforesaid, enter our remon- 
 strance against all plans that have been recommended 
 through the 'Visitor,' save the one on page 279, of Septem- 
 ber number last." All business upon this subject is referred 
 to the next Yearly Meeting. 
 
 Art 8. Is it according to the gospel for brethren to ad- 
 minister the communion to the sick or disabled members 
 in the day time, and without celebrating the other ordi- 
 nances connected with it ? Considered, not according to 
 the gospel, because the Master instituted it in the night. 
 However, there is no impropriety in attending to it, if done 
 in the regular way and at the proper time, in connection 
 with the other ordinances instituted with it. 
 
 Art. 9. When expelled members, upon application, are 
 readmitted, how shall they be received by the church ? 
 Considered, that the applicating member be received by 
 the hand of fellowship and the kiss of charity; but that 
 the (reinstated) brother or sister go around to all the mem- 
 bers, and (in order to) be received by them. 
 
 Art. 10. How is it considered if brethren suffer their 
 children to take an active part in school debates and exhi- 
 bitions ? Considered, that there can be no objection, if cou- 
 pucted in an orderly manner; and we advise brethren (at 
 the same time not to forget) to bring up their children in 
 the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 
 
 Art. 11. Shall members be allowed to go to the Lord's 
 table and partake of the bread and the cup of the Lord, 
 and when so done afterward bring up old complaints again, 
 or, shall the church act upon such complaints or not? 
 Considered, that when any matter has once been fairly in- 
 vestigated by the church, or settled betweeu two parties, 
 the decision should be final, and it a member should after- 
 ward revive it, they should be held responsible and fall 
 into the dealings of the church, more especially after hav- 
 ing partaken of the communion. 
 
 Art. 12. Shall the church receive a complaint against a 
 
252 MINUTES OF 
 
 member before the offended brother go and tell his brother 
 his fault between himself and him alone or not ? Consid- 
 ered, that if we would read the rule of life as contained in 
 Matt, xyiii, we would find no need of originating such 
 questions. 
 
 Art. 13. Resolved, that we are opposed to a treasury for 
 the exclusive benefit of the ministry, but that every church 
 should encourage their ministers to be active in their call- 
 ing, and also to support them in all cases of necessity. 
 Considered, that we fully concur in the sentiment above 
 expressed. 
 
 Art. 14. That we are in favor of postponing the revision 
 of our hymn-books. Considered, since a committee was 
 appointed, by last Yearly Meeting, to attend to this busi- 
 ness, and circumstances preventing their action, we are in 
 favor of extending the same committee, to consummate the 
 work assigned them at their earliest convenience. 
 
 Art. 15. Would it not be better, and give more satisfac- 
 tion to the brotherhood at large, if the brethren serving or 
 composing the standing committee at our Annual Meetings 
 would be changed every year, so as to have at least two- 
 thirds of the same fresh members ? Considered, that we 
 do not think it advisable to make any change in the man- 
 ner of choosing the standing committee, and are still sat- 
 isfied with the decision of the Yearly Meeting of 1853. 
 (See Article 1, in the minutes of that year.) 
 
 Art. 16. Is it proper or profitable for brethren to engage 
 in public discussions with other professors upon religious 
 or other subjects? Considered, that we think it right to 
 defend the gospel, when interrogated (or assailed) either in 
 private or public ; but that we should not engage in worldly 
 or political subjects, at least not to discuss them publicly. 
 
 Art. 17. A committee being requested to go to Kansas, 
 Breckenridge County, etc., to settle all matters of difficulty 
 existing there, we, the standing committee, do appoint the 
 following brethren to attend to this business to-wit: John 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 253 
 
 Metzgcr, of Indiana, Christian Long, of Illinois, and Sam- 
 uel Lehman, also of Illinois. 
 
 Art. 18. And there being a call for a committee to attend 
 and settle matters in the Leading Creek, and also in the 
 church on Dryfork, in Randolph County, Virginia, the call 
 is favorably received, and the following brethren are hereby 
 appointed, viz. : Joseph Arnold, of Hampshire, Jacob Mil- 
 ler, of Rockingham, and Jacob Wine, of Shenandoah, Vir- 
 ginia. 
 
 Art. 19. As to the mode of setting apart suitable breth- 
 ren for the proposed Pacific mission, we recommend that 
 the vote of the whole church be taken, and [that the two 
 brethren receiving the vote of the greatest number of 
 churches shall be declared elected, and if either of them 
 could not go, then the next highest,'etc. ; and we further 
 recommend that all the churches take immediate action, 
 and report to the corresponding secretary of the board ap- 
 pointed for that purpose. For information, refer to the 
 minutes of last Yearly Meeting (1860.) 
 
 Art. 20. The request of the churches in the Miami Val- 
 ley (Ohio) for the Yearly Meeting in 1862, was favorably 
 received and granted ; therefore, the Lord willing, our 
 Yearly Meeting will take place, on Pentecost next, in Bro. 
 Abraham Erbaugh's district, ten miles from Dayton, Mont- 
 gomery County, Ohio, three miles from Brookville station, 
 on the Dayton & Union Railroad. Letters addressed to 
 Bro. Erbaugh, New Lebanon, Montgomery County, Ohio, 
 will be attended to. 
 
 We, the brethren composing the standing committee, do 
 hereby annex our names in testimony of our consent to the 
 decisions of the queries before the meeting : 
 
 Joseph Arnold, George Shaver, Peter Crumpacker, Mar- 
 tin Miller, Daniel Miller, of Ohio. 
 
 John Kline, Moderator. 
 
 Benjamin F. Moomaw, Secretary. 
 
254 minutes o; 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1S62. 
 
 A very large number of persons having assembled on 
 Saturday, meetings for worship were held on that day. 
 The congregation being very large on Lord's-day, arrange- 
 ments were made for having divine service conducted in 
 live different places, and in the German and English lan- 
 guages. A large number of the ministering brethren pres- 
 ent participated in the labors of the day, and good attention 
 was given to the Word preached. 
 
 After the devotional exercises, on Monday morning, the 
 council-meeting was organized by appointing the following 
 standing committee : John Berkley and John Zug, of Penn- 
 sylvania; Daniel P. Sayler, of Maryland; John Kliue and 
 John "Wine, of Virginia; John B rower, Henry Kurtz, and 
 Joseph Showalter, of Ohio; John Metzger, and Jacob 
 Miller, of Indiana; Sam. Garber and Dan. Sturgis, of Illi- 
 nois; John Bower, of Kansas; John Ogg, of Minnesota; 
 Abraham Replogle, of Iowa. Daniel P. Sayler and James 
 Quinter were appointed clerks, and John Kline moderator. 
 
 The delegates then presented themselves before the gen- 
 eral committee, and presented the papers which they 
 brought from the churches, by whom they were sent as dele- 
 gates. It was ascertained that there were represented at 
 this council-meeting one hundred and thirty-six congre- 
 gations, by about two hundred and forty delegates. The 
 general committee, having received the papers addressed 
 to the meeting, distributed such as contained queries to 
 twenty sub-committees, who retired and prepared their re- 
 ports. 
 
 On Tuesday morning the brethren assembled in General 
 Council, to receive and consider the reports of the sub- 
 committees. The meeting was opened with devotional ex- 
 ercises. The object of the meeting was then explained. 
 After this the queries were considered, and the following 
 answers given by the meeting : 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 255 
 
 Article 1. Is it agreeable to the order of the brethren 
 to hold Sabbath-schools; and, if so, how should they be 
 conducted ? Answer : The decision of the Annual Meeting 
 of 1857 is re-adopted. 
 
 Art. 2. With regard to prayer-meetings, how should 
 they be conducted? Answer: All our meetings for divine 
 service should be conducted according to the gospel, which 
 requires all things to be done decently and in order. 
 
 Art. 3. If a sister is married to a man, who, after living 
 with her awhile, leaves her, aud she, not hearing from him 
 for several years, marries again, can she be held as a mem- 
 ber ? Answer: No; she could not be held as a member. 
 
 Art. 4. In installing official members into office in the 
 church, is there to be any difference observed between near 
 relations? Answer: There is no difference to be observed. 
 
 Art. 5. In case a complaint is found against a brother 
 because he was sued at court for an honest debt, and then 
 took the stay, and when he is visited he denies the charge, 
 and says that he was not sued ; but the brethren, having 
 evidence to the contrary, agree to send two brethren to the 
 county clerk's office, and the clerk shows, by his record, 
 that the brother was sued, and took the stay for nearly six 
 months, and then paid the debt, together with the costs. 
 Now, the question is, which is to be taken as truth, the 
 brother's word, or the record in the clerk's office ? And 
 have the brethren a right, or have they not, to send breth- 
 ren to the world to investigate church matters ? Answer : 
 It is not wrong for brethren to have such matters closely 
 investigated, and to obtain all the light possible. 
 
 Art. 6. Is it proper for the visiting brethren, at our pub- 
 lic meetings, when there are from three to six laboring 
 brethren present, to rise to their feet, and line out a hymn, 
 and exhort, in preference to the laboring brethren, or are 
 they to keep their seats? Answer : The laboring brethren 
 are to conduct the meeting, and it is the duty of the visit- 
 ing brethren to exhort when liberty is given them. 
 
256 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 7. Is it allowed by the brethren, in Annual Council, 
 for the members of the church to attend singing-schools on 
 Sundays, or at night, or in the week? Answer: While we 
 would caution our members, especially the young, against 
 the abuses of singing-schools, we would not absolutely for- 
 bid them, if conducted orderly, and if they do not conflict 
 with the time of preaching. 
 
 Art. 8. Is it wrong for brethren to put bells on their 
 meeting-houses ? Answer : We do not think it advisable 
 to encourage brethren to have bells on their meeting- 
 houses. 
 
 Art. 9. When official members move from one district to 
 another, should they be received with hand and kiss, or is 
 a letter sufficient? Answer: Art. 0, of the minutes of 1846, 
 re-adopted, and here to be re-printed: "Is a brother, that 
 was a speaker or deacon, and has moved into another 
 church, properly reinstalled in his office, if an ordained 
 brother takes the counsel of the church, and announces the 
 same to him, without he being received by the members- 
 with hand and kiss? Considered, unanimously, by -the? 
 elders, that inasmuch as he was properly received into hi& 
 office by the church in which he was chosen, he would be 
 sufficiently established." 
 
 Art. 10. How are we to proceed with members who will 
 neglect to attend council and public meetings, and that for 
 months? Answer: Such members should be admonished,, 
 again and again, and their reasons for non-attendance ascer- 
 tained, and the danger of living in such a manner set before' 
 them. (See Heb. x. 25.) 
 
 Art. 11. Inasmuch as there are so many secret societies, 
 such as Freemasons, Odd-Fellows, Sons of Temperance, etc.,, 
 and as the members of Christ's church are not allowed to 
 belong to any of them, would it not be best to ask all ap- 
 plicants for membership whether they belong to any secret 
 order; and if they do, to inform them that they must re- 
 nounce all such before they are received into the church?: 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 257 
 
 Answer: If there is a suspicion of any applicant for mem- 
 bership having fellowship with such societies, we think it 
 not wrong to ask such a question. 
 
 Art. 12. How is it considered for brethren to wear the 
 beard on the upper lip, they being conscientious in doing 
 so? If a brother does not shave any, we would leave it 
 with his conscience; but if he lets it stand on his upper lip 
 only, we consider it wrong. 
 
 Art. 13. How is it considered if a church did, some years 
 ago, in presence of two ordained elders, put in avoidance a 
 member, having committed one of those sins mentioned in 
 I. Cor. v. 11, and at a later date the same church did decide 
 a similar case differently, by a strong majority, in opposi- 
 tion to one ordained elder and the housekeeper in the 
 church? Answer: Inasmuch as Brethren Henry Kurtz 
 and Jacob Snyder have taken this matter in hand, we leave 
 it to those brethren to come to a union with the church 
 concerned. 
 
 Art. 14. How is it considered when a church nas several 
 ministers of equal standing, and none of them ordained, 
 has the housekeeper, or have the ministers, a right to call 
 to their assistance an ordained brother, without the counsel 
 of the church ? Answer : They have not the right to do 
 so without the counsel of the church. 
 
 Art. 15. How is it considered, if a minister defends and 
 justifies slavery, even in a public debate? Answer: It is 
 utterly wrong for any brother to do so, according to Matt, 
 vn. 12. 
 
 Art. 16. Inasmuch as the Yearly Meeting has allowed 
 of brethren's children taking au active part in school exhi- 
 bitions, if properly conducted, is it wrong for brethren to 
 go with them, to investigate such exhibitions? Answer: 
 We consider it best to leave the answer to query 10 of last 
 Yearly Meeting, as it is ; and in answer to the additional 
 question whether the parents may go to school exhibitions, 
 we would say we consider it best for them not to go, if their 
 17 
 
258 MINUTES OF 
 
 going would be likely to encourage any thing that is of an 
 evil character. 
 
 Art. 17. Is it considered right, according to the gospel, 
 for a brother to marry a woman (not a sister) that is divorced 
 from her husband, when it is not known whether that 
 divorced husband is dead, and the ordained elder, who per- 
 formed the marriage ceremony, contends that all is right ? 
 Answer: We consider it wrong for any brother in the min- 
 istry to perform such marriage, and also wrong, according 
 to the gospel, for any brother or sister to be married to auy 
 such party. 
 
 Art. 18. The brethren assembled in council in the Val- 
 ley of Virginia, being impressed with the importance of 
 having the public more fully enlightened upon the ordi- 
 nances, have agreed to adopt the plan at our communion 
 meetings, when it is expedient, in the afternoon service, to 
 occupy the time in discussing these subjects before the com- 
 mencement of the evening exercises. Will the Annual 
 Meeting approve of this plan, insert it on the minutes, and 
 recommend it? Answer: While we strongly recommend 
 the defense of the ordinances, we leave it to the discretion 
 of the churches to decide the time and place of their de- 
 fense. 
 
 Art. 19. Inasmuch as it is the order of the brethren that 
 sisters should wear caps, what should be done with a sister 
 in case of stubbornness ? And should there be any allow- 
 ance made for the unmarried ? Answer : We consider it 
 is the duty of all the sisters to have on a plain covering at 
 the time of worship. 
 
 Art. 20. What shall be done in such a case as follows : 
 There is a brother and sister living here who claim to have 
 stood in full fellowship with a church called Dunkards, in 
 Lycoming County, Pennsylvania. When asked for a cer- 
 tificate, the brother said the church from which they moved 
 did not give certificates, allowing that their conduct should 
 Buflice, and this has been quite satisfactory to the members 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 259 
 
 of this church. "^ Answer : We consider it right, in all cases, 
 when members move from one arm of the church to an- 
 other, that they shall present to the church wherein they 
 wish to reside, a certificate, to prove their membership in 
 the church from whence they came, or give satisfaction to 
 the church of which they wish to become members. 
 
 Art. 21. Would it not be better, instead of asking the 
 consent of each individual member concerning the recep- 
 tion of an applicant, to make the request general, that is, 
 ask the church as a body whether they are willing to re- 
 ceive such applicant, and if they are, let silence give con- 
 sent ; and if not, that member who is not willing to receive 
 such applicant, shall have full privilege to state his or her 
 objections? Answer: This is left optional to each arm of 
 the church. 
 
 Art. 22. How is it considered for sisters to wear hoops, 
 and to conform themselves to the new fashions of the 
 world — shall we tolerate it or not ? Answer: The answer 
 to the third query of last Yearly Meeting is re-adopted. 
 
 Art. 23. Is it agreeable to the gospel and the rule of the 
 brethren for a bishop to put the office of elder or second 
 degree of the ministry upon a brother, when it appears the 
 majority of the members present are opposed, and so are 
 also two elders who are present ? And when it is proposed 
 to take the voice or vote of the church, that is also refused, 
 but he puts the office upon him when he has got his hat on 
 and when he is quarreling with another brother, and when 
 nearly all the members have left, all but eight or ten ? And 
 is such a brother legally installed into office? Answer: 
 We consider such a brother not legally installed. And we 
 consider, according to the gospel, that the bishop who did 
 so, should make satisfaction to the church. 
 
 Art. 24. How is it considered when a brother commits 
 an offense against the church, and the church takes his case 
 into consideration ? lie acknowledges the offense, and is 
 sorry for it, and asks forgiveness; has the church a right 
 
260 MINUTES OF 
 
 to advise him not to commune? Answer: If the church 
 forgives him, and receives him into full fellowship, it has 
 no right to forbid him to commune. 
 
 Art. 25. Is it right, according to the gospel, for a brother 
 to buy land that is sold by the county for taxes ? Answer : 
 We consider that it is wrong for brethren to do so, when 
 done for speculation. 
 
 Art. 26. What is to be done with a brother that buye 
 whiskey by the barrel, and sells it to such as he thinks use 
 it temperately, and when admonished once and again not 
 to sell, he says he will be more careful to sell to none but 
 those who use it temperately ? Answer : Any brother deal- 
 ing in intoxicating liquors, if he continues to do so after 
 being admonished, can not be fellowshiped as a brother. 
 
 Art. 27. A person was baptized, and thus became a mem- 
 ber of the church ; afterward thought he was not in the 
 right state of mind when he had been baptized, and felt 
 that if he would die in this state he would be lost, and then 
 made application to be re-baptized. The brethren in the 
 congregation tried to reconcile him, and could not, and also 
 sent strange and elder brethren to talk with him, who also 
 failed to satisfy him. After repeated and continued appli- 
 cation for re-baptism, a brother, without the counsel of the 
 church, baptized him over again, when he became recon- 
 ciled. Now, did the brother who re-baptized the person do 
 his duty? Answer: We think he did not do his duty, but 
 did wrong. 
 
 Art. 28. Can the church hold in fellowship persons liv- 
 ing as husband and wife, while the husband's former wife 
 is living, from whom he was divorced, but not for the cause 
 of fornication ? Answer: We consider, according to Matt. 
 xix. 9, that the churGh can not hold such in fellowship. 
 
 Art. 29. Is it right for a son to put his father on the 
 county to be kept, both being members of the church ? 
 And if not right, where does the father belong? in the 
 district where he is on the county, or in that from which 
 
NNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 261 
 
 he was taken? Answer: We consider it wrong for a son 
 or brother to do so. And the father, under the circum- 
 stances stated, would, of course, belong to the district from 
 which he was taken. 
 
 Art. 30. What shall we do with brethren of whom the 
 world complains to the church for neglecting to pay their 
 debts, and for causing disappointments to their creditors? 
 Answer: If the brethren can and will not pay their debts, 
 they should be dealt with according to the gospel, as offend- 
 ing members. 
 
 Art. 31. Will the brethren, at Annual Meeting, consider 
 it right to establish Sunday-schools? and if they do con- 
 sider it right, will they also consider it right for members 
 of the church, and their children, to attend Sunday-school 
 ■celebrations ? Answer : We consider it right to have Sun- 
 day-schools, if conducted by brethren, but not to have cel- 
 ebrations. 
 
 Art. 32. Where ministering brethren have difficulties in 
 the church, and when they are not in full fellowship with 
 the church, in breaking bread, etc., may they still continue 
 to preach and appoint meetings ? Answer : We consider 
 that such brethren should be reconciled to the church be- 
 fore they make appointments to preach. 
 
 Art. 33. Would it not be advisable, when an election is 
 to be held for both a speaker and a deacon, at the same 
 time, to hold the election for the speaker firft, and make 
 the result known, and then hold the election for the deacon 
 or deacons, as the case may be? Answer: We consider it 
 would be advisable to do so. 
 
 Art. 34. Can this Annual Meeting allow brethren, and 
 especially the bishops and ministering brethren, to suffer 
 their children, while under their control, to follow all the 
 foolish fashions, such as wearing of hoops, and unnecessary 
 ornaments of the body ? Answer: We consider that such 
 things should not be tolerated by the brethren while they 
 ■can reasonably be prevented. 
 
262 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 85. Is the practice of one ministering brother do- 
 ing all the vocal praying in the assemblies of Christians, 
 and ending his prayer with the Lord's prayer, more like 
 the apostolic advice and practice than that of our brethren 
 formerly, when two exercised in vocal prayer ? Answer : 
 We consider it is not, when there are several brethren 
 present. 
 
 Art. 36. Is the practice good and sustained in the gos- 
 pel for the church enjoining on the believing wives of teach- 
 ers the duty of aiding, by their humble example and chaste 
 conversation, their husbands in the solemn duty laid upon 
 them? Answer: We consider such a practice in perfect 
 harmony with the spirit of the gospel. 
 
 Art. 37. Why are not the sisters, who become wives of 
 ministers after they are appointed to the ministry, called 
 upon in the church to promise the same duties as the sis- 
 ters who are wives at the time their husbands are appointed 
 to the office ? Answer : We consider they should be, ac- 
 cording to the practice of the church touching those who 
 are wives of brethren when the latter are appointed to 
 office. 
 
 Art. 38. If the servants of the church, receiviug the 
 office of teaching, and after a while become more worldly 
 in appearance and manner, whose duty is it to admonish 
 them ? Is it the duty of any member, or only the duty of 
 the minister? Answer: We consider it to be the duty of 
 any member to admonish such in the spirit of meekness 
 and love. 
 
 Art. 39. How is it considered when visiting brethren 
 will, in meeting, get upon their feet and speak when there 
 are elected speakers present, and sometimes speak thirty 
 minutes or upward, and that without liberty from the 
 speakers? If that is not in order for visiting brethren, 
 what is the order? Is it to stand upon their feet when 
 they have any thing to say, or to keep their seats? An- 
 swer : We consider it out of order for visiting brethren to- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 263 
 
 do so, without liberty being given by ministering brethren, 
 if such are present. 
 
 Art. 40. Has a church a right to exclude a member be- 
 fore informing him of the charge they have against him ; 
 and if not, what course should a member pursue that has 
 been disowned that way? Answer: The church has no 
 right to do so without duly notifying him, and if they do 
 so, he is entitled to a re-hearing, with the assistance of 
 elders from other churches. 
 
 Art. 41. What will the Annual Council advise in the 
 following cases, viz. : A number of brethren in district A 
 become prejudiced against the body of the church and will 
 not attend council and other meetings, after being cited 
 frequently to do so. But they will attend meetings and 
 councils in district B, or the adjoining district, and they 
 also will contribute means and money for the benefit of the 
 said district B, to the entire neglect of their own district? 
 Also, what will Annual Council say of the brethren in 
 district B who encourage those brethren of district A to 
 continue in such a practice? Answer: We consider it 
 wrong for brethren to aid other districts and to neglect 
 their own, and we also Consider it wrong for a neighboring 
 church to pursue such a course as district B is said to have 
 done. 
 
 Art. 42. IIow is it considered if a brother has any griev- 
 ance against another brother, so that he will say he will 
 never break the bread of communion with that brother? 
 But the offended brother does not pursue the course 
 directed in Matt, xviii., but will go and break bread where 
 the brother who has offended him is not present, and after 
 some years tells this brother that he will never go to the 
 communion with him. Is it right for members to do so, 
 or, have members any right, after they go to a communion, 
 to say any thing afterward about difficulties which had ex- 
 isted before ? Answer : We consider a brother has no right, 
 
264 MINUTES OF 
 
 under such circumstances, to commune until he shall have 
 become reconciled to his brother. 
 
 Art. 4o. Is it in accordance with the word of God to 
 have supper on the table before washing feet ? Answer : 
 We consider that it is. 
 
 Art. 44. Is it according to the word of God when a com- 
 mittee of brethren come into a church or district to exam- 
 ine and settle difficulties, to withdraw before they have 
 heard the members in church council, or to withdraw after- 
 ward, and then hear each member separately, and then de- 
 cide without giving the members concerned any knowledge 
 of it or any opportunity to answer complaints made against 
 them ? Answer : We consider that it should be left optional 
 with the committee, after having the parties face to face. 
 
 Art. 45. Is it in accordance with the gospel for the stand- 
 ing committee of the Yearly Meeting to send a committee 
 into a church, if desired by such that are expelled from the 
 church according to Matt, xvnr., the church having no 
 knowledge of it? Answer: No; but the church which 
 has expelled him should call a committee, if the expelled 
 member requests it. 
 
 Art. 46. Is it according to the word of God for such per- 
 sons as are excommunicated from the church council, the 
 salutation, and the communion, according to Matt, xvni., 
 to come before the committee, and can their complaints 
 against members be received as evidence? Answer: No. 
 
 Art. 47. How is it considered when two members of the 
 church, a visiting brother and his wife, see another visiting 
 brother intoxicated ; afterward these two brethren visit the 
 church and commune together, and some two months after- 
 ward the first brother named and -a private brother saw 
 the same brother again, as they thought, with too much 
 liquor. Still there is no complaint made to the church 
 until some six or seven months after the first transgression, 
 though there have been two or three church meetings held 
 in the time. Then the first brother named lays in com- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 265 
 
 plaint. What is now the duty of the church in this and 
 suchlike cases? Answer: We consider both parties are 
 in fault, and they should be dealt with according to Matt. 
 
 XVIII. 
 
 Art. 48. How is it considered if a visiting brother, at a 
 meeting where there are five or six ordained brethren, hears 
 something said which does not suit him, and, after two or 
 three have spoken, arises up and explains the subject ac- 
 cording to his own view ? Answer : We consider it out of 
 order for visiting brethren to rise and speak when minis- 
 tering brethren are present, unless asked by them to do so. 
 
 Art. 49. Should the hand be withheld or offered, as con- 
 nected with the admonition, in admonishing a brother ? 
 Answer : We consider that the right hand of friendship 
 may be offered, supposing it to be included in the admoni- 
 tion. 
 
 Art. 50. Is it advisable to hold an election for a minis- 
 ter or deacon in one part of a congregation (in that in 
 which it is most needed), and none but the members in that 
 part voting, it being too small to form a separate church, 
 providing the whole church consents to hold such an elec- 
 tion ? Answer : We consider it advisable to do so. 
 
 Art. 51. How is it considered if a member that has been 
 excommunicated, makes application to be received again, 
 and there is a council-meeting held, and a complaint is 
 made against him so that he can not be received, and some 
 one goes and tells the excommunicated member all that 
 has been said against him in council ? How is such a mem- 
 ber to be dealt with ? Answer : We consider it very wrong 
 to report any thing done in council to such persons, except 
 the charges made against them. 
 
 Art. 52. Would it be against the order of the gospel, or 
 of the brethren, for a church, if the members agree to do 
 so, to hold a love-feast, without tendering an invitation to 
 any of the members of the adjoining churches but the min- 
 istering brethren ? Answer : We consider if a church, for 
 
266 * MINUTES OF 
 
 want of room, or for other good reasons, thinks it proper 
 to hold a love-feast without giving a general invitation, it 
 may he permitted to do so. 
 
 Art. 53. Is it in accordance with the gospel to pronounce 
 a benediction over the people at the close of a funeral serv- 
 ice at the grave ? And, if so, what should be the form ? 
 Answer : We have no authority in the gospel for doing so, 
 and no such custom among the brethren to sanction it. 
 
 Art 54. Who are the elders spoken of by James, that 
 are to be sent to anoint the sick in the name of the Lord ? 
 Answer: The ordained elders, if they can be obtained; if 
 not, the next in office. 
 
 Art. 55. Which is the most advisable in holding council- 
 meetings, to ask each individual member for his consent, 
 or to take silence for consent? Answer: In all weighty 
 matters it is best for each member to answer 
 
 Art. 56. Is the testimony of one witness sufficient 
 authority to expel a member, under any circumstance, 
 when the accused denies and objects to the testimony? 
 Answer: One witness is not sufficient, in general, but we 
 will not say that under no circumstances one is not suffi- 
 cient. 
 
 Art. 57. Can a member, who is accused of some fault, 
 give testimony before the church ? Answer : While a per- 
 son is a member of the church his testimony can not be 
 altogether set at naught by the church. 
 
 Art. 58. Inasmuch as the brethren in Annual Council of 
 1856 have recommended the churches to hold district or 
 council-meetings, and with this we have complied ; now, 
 we wish to know whether we should take minutes of our 
 proceedings? Answer: We consider that no query of im- 
 portance, acted on by the sub-district meeting, should be 
 confirmed until presented to the Annual Meeting for its 
 sanction. 
 
 Art. 59. If a man and his wife leave one church and go 
 iuto another, with a recommendation from the former, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 267 
 
 which is received by the latter ; after awhile the sister 
 leaves her husband, the brother, and returns to the church 
 which she first left, charging her husband with crimes com- 
 mitted before the recommendation was given. I^ot bring- 
 ing a recommendation from the church from which she last 
 came, the former receives her or retains her as a member, 
 and acts on the case of her husband and expels him. Did 
 this church do right ? Answer : "We consider that no church 
 should receive a member from another without a certificate, 
 or to expel a member without a hearing. 
 
 Art. 60. How shall we regard the conduct of a brother 
 who travels through different churches, and when he comes 
 into the congregation he falls down on his knees and makes 
 a private prayer, mortifying some of the members? Had 
 he not better make his private prayers where no human 
 eye can see him? Answer: We think it is out of order 
 to do so, and the brother should do so no more. 
 
 Art. 61. Is it consistent with the gospel, and the order 
 of the brethren, for wealthy brethren to make it a rule or 
 custom, when they lend money to poor brethren or others, 
 to make those who borrow the money pay the tax on the 
 money, when they receive interest on the money? If not 
 consistent with the gospel, what is to be done with such a 
 brother? Answer: We think it is not consistent with the 
 gospel to take more than lawful interest. (See Luke in. 
 13.) We think such a brother should be admonished by the 
 church, and if he will not hear the church, he should be 
 dealt with according to Matt. xvni. 
 
 Art. 62. Has a brother the right to put the law in force 
 against his brother, to collect money, in any shape or form 
 whatever, without giving him notice before ? Answer : In 
 no case whatever. 
 
 Art. 63. Will the brethren, in Annual Council, consider 
 it right for ministering brethren to receive members into 
 the church without requesting them to lay off the fashions 
 of the world in regard to apparel, and to conform to the 
 
268 MINUTES OF 
 
 order of the brethren ? Answer : We consider it would 
 not be right to do so. (See Horn. xn. 2.) 
 
 Art. 64. How is it considered if members owe a just 
 debt, and suffer themselves to be sued ? Has the church a 
 right to bring such members before the church, and to in- 
 vestigate the case, to see whether such members have done 
 their duty ? Answer : We consider it has. 
 
 Art. 65. Would it not be more in accordance with the 
 gospel, and the example of Christ, to omit returning thanks 
 between the supper and the communion ? Answer : We 
 think it best to return thanks, according to I. Thess. v. 18. 
 
 Art. Q<o. We wish to have the first query in the minutes 
 of the last Yearly Meeting reconsidered, and a more defi- 
 nite answer given. Answer: In reconsidering the query 
 alluded to, we conclude that we can not give a more definite 
 answer than was given in 1858, query 40, and in 1861, 
 query 1. 
 
 Art. 67. When a person, having received baptism in the 
 same way that we perform it, but by a minister of a differ- 
 ent denomination, wishes to be united to the brethren, must 
 such a person be re-baptized in order to be received into 
 our church? Answer: We refer to the minutes of the 
 Annual Meeting of 1848, Art. 5. 
 
 Art. 68. How shall we proceed in case a sick member 
 requests the communion? Will any time do? And must 
 feet-washing and the supper accompany the communion ? 
 Answer: We consider it best to administer it in the even- 
 ing, according to the example of Christ. John xin. 
 
 Art. 69. How is it considered when ministeriug brethren, 
 after preaching, go into the congregation and invite persons 
 to join the church ? Answer: We consider it best to do as 
 was done in Acts n. 
 
 Art. 70. Requests for committees: 1. A committee for 
 Hush Creek Church, Hocking County, Ohio. The follow- 
 ing brethren form the committee: John P. Ebersole, Elias 
 Dicky, and II. Davy. 2. A committee to visit the Elk Lick 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 269 
 
 Church, Somerset County, Pennsylvania. John Kline and 
 John Wine were appointed on this committee, with author- 
 ity to add one to the number. 
 
 Art. 71. Resolved, by this council-meeting, that no query 
 shall be presented to the Annual Conference without being- 
 signed by the elders, in the name of the church in which it 
 originates. 
 
 Art. 72. Requests for the Annual Meeting : 1. A request 
 from northern Illinois, for the Annual Meeting of 1864, or 
 as soon as it can be had. 2. A renewal of the request of 
 the .Nettle Creek Church, Wayne County, Indiana, for 1864. 
 3. The request of the Clover Creek Church, Blair County, 
 Pennsylvania, for the Annual Meeting of 1863, was re- 
 newed, and granted. Our next Annual Meeting will, there- 
 fore, the Lord willing, be held with the brethren in Blair 
 County, Pennsylvania, on Pentecost, 1863. 
 
 Brethren from the east and southeast will go to Hunt- 
 ingdon, on the Pennsylvania Central Railroad; there take 
 the Huntingdon and Broadtop Railroad to Cove Station, 
 which is four miles and a half from the place of meeting. 
 Those from the west will stop at Altoona, and take the 
 branch to Hollidaysburg, which is about fourteen miles 
 from the place of meeting ; or, if they prefer to do so, they 
 can go to Huntingdon, and then take the route the breth- 
 ren from the east are directed to take. Correspondence 
 can be held with Daniel M. Holsinger and George Brum- 
 baugh, Martinsburg, Bkiir County, Pennsylvania. 
 
 P. S. — Inasmuch as the old clerk, Henry Kurtz, declined 
 the clerk's office, offered- him by the standing committee, 
 the giving out of certificates and return tickets on the rail- 
 roads was left to him, with authority to call in the assist- 
 ance of other brethren, especially since illness made him 
 almost totally unfit for business. 
 
 Signed in behalf of the meeting and general committee. 
 
 I). P. Sayler, 
 J. Quinter. 
 
 John Kline, Moderator. 
 
 l > | Clerks. 
 
270 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1863. 
 
 The religious exercises began Saturday morning, and 
 were continued on the Lord's-day in different places, and 
 likewise every evening while the meeting lasted. On 
 Monday morning the meeting was organized for busi- 
 ness, by the nomination of a standing committee, before 
 which appeared the delegates of the several churches, hand- 
 ing in their letters and queries. The business then was dis- 
 tributed among fourteen committees for investigation, and 
 on Tuesday morning the public discussion commenced of 
 those matters laid before the meeting. They were as fol- 
 lows: 
 
 Article 1. How are we to deal with our brethren who 
 have enlisted and gone to the army as soldiers or teamsters, 
 or those who have been drafted, and are gone to the army ? 
 "We think it not expedient to consider (or discuss) these 
 questions at this time. Still it is believed, and was ex- 
 pressed, the gospel gave sufficient instruction. 
 
 Art. 2. How is it considered if a brother goes to law with 
 an outsider, without the counsel of the church, and causes 
 quite a conspicuous lawsuit; how are we to deal with such 
 an one according to the gospel ? Are we to visit him, ac- 
 cording to Matt, xvin., or bring the case before the church 
 at once ? Bring it before the church at once. 
 
 Art. 3. How are we to deal with sisters who are wearing 
 hoops? They should be admonished once and again; and 
 if they will not heed the admonitions, they should be dealt 
 with according to Matt. xvin. (See Minutes of 1861, Art. 3.) 
 
 Art. 4. Is it contrary to the gospel to have lamb's meat 
 at the Lord's Supper? We think not; but since the gos- 
 pel does not give a precept or example of what the supper 
 did or shall consist, the members should try to be in union, 
 love, and forbearance in this matter. (See Minutes of 1853, 
 Art. 21, and 1855, Art. 20.) 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 271 
 
 Art. 5. What should be done with a brother that would 
 preach that slavery was right according to the Scriptures, 
 and cause discord among the brethren? Inasmuch as the 
 brethren always believed, and believe yet, that slavery is a 
 great evil, and contrary to the doctrine of Christ, we con- 
 sider it utterly wrong for a brother to justify slavery, 
 either in public or in private, and that he should be admon- 
 ished, and if obstinate, shall be dealt with according to 
 Matt. xvin. 
 
 Art. 6. Would it not be expedient and consistent that 
 the brethren forming the standing committee of the Annual 
 Meeting of the brethren should open and examine all ques- 
 tions (sent in by the several churches, and assort them), and 
 thereby save an amount of unnecessary labor and time 
 spent, as there are frequently two, three, and even more, 
 queries of the same import and meaning sent in, and acted 
 upon (separately reported hitherto by different committees) 
 at the same conference, which, we think, could be avoided 
 in a great measure ? Considered, it is expedient. 
 
 Art. 7. A woman leaves her husband because he com- 
 mitted adultery, and he then leaves the neighborhood. 
 About three years after the woman marries again, having 
 obtained a divorce from her former husband, and after the 
 expiration of another three years, both the woman and the 
 husband she now has, apply to the church to become mem- 
 bers, the woman not having heard from her discarded hus- 
 band all that time; can she be received? We think they 
 can not be received without the church being satisfied that 
 the first husband be dead. I. Cor. vn. 39. 
 
 Art. 8. How is it considered if brethren appoint meet 
 ings, and invite speakers from other congregations, who 
 conform themselves too much to the fashions of the world 
 by wearing apparel, and those appointments and invitations 
 are made without the consent of the church or bishop, and 
 are offensive to some members? We think members 
 should not do so without the consent of the elder or the 
 church. 
 
272 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 9. If one brother should demand and receive more 
 interest from another brother than the law allows, and the 
 latter acquiesces for years, but finally becomes dissatisfied, 
 must he make the complaint to the church, or commence 
 in the ordinary way, by going first privately to the offend- 
 ing brother, etc. ? Answer : The dissatisfied brother should 
 proceed according to Matt, xvur., and the offending brother 
 should refund the unlawful interest as far as the church in 
 which both reside may judge equitable. 
 
 Art. 10. If one brother clandestinely slanders another, 
 then gets a letter of recommendation and removes from 
 the church before the slandered brother is aware of the 
 offense again st him, how is the offended brother to proceed ? 
 The offended brother should request the church where he 
 lives to assist him in getting a reconciliation. 
 
 Art. 11. Is it in accordance with the direction of the 
 apostle (I. Tim. n. 1, etc.,) to have any exhortation before 
 prayer, on opening meeting? We do not consider Paul's 
 exhortation confined to opening the meeting, and therefore 
 believe a word of exhortation to prayer very proper in 
 opening the meeting,' provided the exhortation is short, 
 and confined principally to prayer 
 
 Art. 12. Inasmuch as it is the decision of the council of 
 the Yearly Meeting that members who commit the sin of 
 fornication should be expelled from the church, according 
 to I. Cor. v., how is it considered when a church retains 
 members who have committed that sin, upon a confession 
 of being sorry for it? Answer: Not consistent with the 
 word of God (I. Cor. v.), nor with the ancient order of the 
 church. 
 
 Art. 13. When a member of the church is known to be 
 in a fault, the church sends the visiting brethren to the 
 offending members, to invite them to the council-meeting; 
 the visiting brethren, on their way, are apprised of another 
 member having committed a fault; have they aright to in- 
 vite this member, also, to the council-meeting, or must they 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 273 
 
 first go back to the church to get authority for this second 
 case? They have a right to visit and invite the member to 
 council-meeting. 
 
 Art. 14. How is it considered concerning a brother in 
 the following case: A certain man, not a member of our 
 church, forges a note to the amount of three hundred and 
 seventy-five dollars against said brother, and a summons is 
 issued and served by the sheriff for this (false) debt against 
 him. In consequence of this, the brother testifies against 
 the forger before a court of justice, who is convicted, and 
 sentenced to the state prison for a term of years? Consid- 
 ered, that the brother should have first taken counsel of 
 the church. 
 
 Art. 15. Is it in accordance with the gospel to have 
 stands or pulpits erected in our meeting-houses ? "We have 
 no direct gospel upon this subject, but we advise the breth- 
 ren not to put pulpits or stands in their houses of worship, 
 when by so doing confusion and disunion may be produced. 
 
 Art. 16. Has an ordained elder, according to the breth- 
 ren's order, the right to come into an adjoining district, 
 and bring a committee along with him, and there recon- 
 sider matters without the counsel of the church, over 
 which, also, an ordained elder presides ? Considered, that 
 no ordained elder has a right to do so [in ordinary cases.] 
 
 Art. 17. "What plan will the Yearly Meeting recommend 
 or adopt, that all the brethren must bear an equal share in 
 paying the fines government will impose upon those breth- 
 ren who may be drafted into the military service ? In this 
 case it is recommended by this Yearly Meeting that each 
 member should be willing to contribute according to the 
 true avails of their property, according to Gal. vi. 2. 
 
 Art. 18. Inasmuch as some brethren manifest a desire 
 to prohibit brethren from voting at our common (political) 
 elections, do not the brethren in Yearly Council see it to 
 be best to make no change differing from the counsel and 
 practice of our ancient brethren in these days of trouble? 
 18 
 
274 MINUTES OF 
 
 III the present crisis we recommend that brethren abstain 
 as much as possible from attending elections, according to 
 John xviii. 36 ; II. Cor. vi. 14-17. 
 
 Art. 19. Is it consistent with the gospel and the order 
 of the brethren for a brother who lays a complaint of bad 
 conduct of another member before the church, to state the 
 case himself, in the presence of the member complained of 
 and the church, or shall the elders of the church state it 
 for him, and thus conceal him ? Let the manner of pro- 
 ceeding in such cases be left to the discretion of the church. 
 
 Art. 20. Can an arm of the church (or a local church) 
 be congregational or act independent from all the churches 
 of our fraternity, and still be in full union with the church ? 
 It can not, according to the gospel and the order of the 
 brethren. (See Eomans xn. 4, 5 ; I. Cor. i. 10; Eph. iv. 3, 
 4, etc.) 
 
 Art. 21. Whereas, there has obtained, of late years, some 
 difference in observing the Lord's Supper among different 
 churches, some setting the supper on the table before feet- 
 washing, while some do not till after (the latter being the 
 old universal practice) ; whereas the proceedings of the An- 
 nual Meeting of last year, in Article 43, have grieved some 
 of our brethren : and, whereas, a conciliatory course should 
 always be pursued when brethren have a preference, as it 
 regards the mode or way of observing an ordinance, so that 
 it is properly observed, and~no part of divine truth sacri- 
 ficed, we therefore recall the decision of the Annual Meet- 
 ing above referred to, and let the subject of the time of 
 putting the supper on the table stand precisely where it 
 stood previous to the decision of 1862, with the under- 
 standing that the churches may and should continue, with- 
 out making any change either way, until we have further 
 light on the subject, to bring about a more full union. 
 
 Art. 22. Which is according to the gospel, to transact 
 church business at our common council-meeting ? | Shall 
 they be public before the world, or in the presence of our 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 275 
 
 members only ? Considered, to be according to the gospel 
 that [members only should' compose the council-meeting. 
 (See Matt, x, which whole chapter is directed to disciples 
 alone ; Matt. xvn. 17, where it says of the disciples coming 
 to Jesus apart ; and in Mark vi. 31, Jesus says himself to 
 his disciples, "Come ye yourselves apart," etc., etc., etc.) 
 
 Art. 23. Would it not be better for the church if this 
 Yearly Meeting would adopt the district meetings, so that 
 the different states may form their districts as they may 
 see proper? Considered, to leave this matter as it stands 
 on the minutes of 1856, Article 23. 
 
 Art. 24. Would it not be for the better to have the min- 
 utes of the Annual Meeting in the "Visitor" once a year, 
 provided the editors were willing ? Considered not advis- 
 able to have the minutes printed in the "Visitor." 
 
 Art. 25. Is it according to Scripture for (any or) each 
 brother of the church to have the privilege to appoint meet- 
 ings, attend the same, and preach ? We think it is not in 
 accordance with the gospel, nor promotive of love and 
 union, but rather a fruitful source of contention, strife, and 
 disunion ; therefore, no brother should assume such author- 
 ity, neither should any brother encourage such in their 
 proceedings ; and if a brother will preach contrary to the. 
 will of the church he can not do it in the name of the 
 church. Approved by this Yearly Meeting. 
 
 Art. 26. If brethren, not elected, being endowed with 
 the gift of prophecy, and moved by the Holy Ghost to oc- 
 cupy, with their talents, as their Lord commands, and be- 
 ing called on by the people to preach, have the bishops of 
 the church any authority from the gospel to forbid it, merely 
 because they are not elected, provided he or they •preach 
 Jesus to edification, exhortation, and comfort, and their 
 appointments do not conflict with any regular meetings of 
 the church ? As the apostle directs the spirit of the proph- 
 ets to be subject to the prophets (I. Cor. xiv. 35), and as 
 God is said to be the author of peace, and not of confusion 
 
276 MINUTES OF 
 
 (verse 83), and as the apostle asks the question, "How shall 
 they preach except they be sent?" (Romans x. 15), and as 
 Christ selected, from the number of his disciples, those 
 that he designed to preach the gospel, it appears by the 
 gospel not only proper but necessary that there should be 
 a regular induction of those who are to officiate as minis- 
 ters into the office of the ministry, and therefore we can 
 not sanction the idea entertained by some, that any brother 
 may go out and appoint meetings for preaching. 
 
 Art. 27. "Would it not be well to have the ninth query 
 of 1861 reconsidered? Considered, that we cannot bet- 
 ter it. 
 
 Art. 28. With regard to the question whether a brother 
 minister was rightly dealt with who has taken the liberty 
 to do servile work on the Lord's-day repeatedly, and not- 
 withstanding he has been admonished again and again, 
 continues to defend and pursue his course to the offense of 
 many in and out of the church, it appears that the church, 
 with a chosen committee of elders, has decided that the 
 brother has either to quit this practice, or the exercise of 
 his ministry. The standing committee unanimously con- 
 firms this decision. 
 
 Art. 29. Requests for committees. 1. A committee for 
 Tulpehaccon Church, Pennsylvania ; granted, and Henry 
 Kurtz, Peter Long, John G. Glock, and Isaac Myer, ap- 
 pointed. 2. A committee for Lower Shenandoah Church, 
 Virginia; granted, and Henry Kurtz, Henry Davy, Jacob 
 Wine, John Kline, Daniel P. Sayler, and Daniel Thomas, 
 nominated. Another request for a committee was not 
 granted, because it did not come from the church, which 
 it ought to do in all cases. 
 
 Art. 30. Requests for the Yearly Meetiug. 1. From the 
 Nettle Creek Church, Indiana ; twice repeated before. 2. 
 From Northern Illinois ; repeated the second time. 3. From 
 Antietam Church, Pennsylvania, for the meeting in 1865. 
 
 The request of our brethren in Wayne County, Indiana, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 277 
 
 was granted — to have the Yearly Meeting in 1364. Hagers- 
 town, of said county, on the Cincinnati & Chicago Air-Line 
 Railroad, will be the station to stop at ; the place of meet- 
 ing is one mile from this station. Bro. David Hardman 
 and David Bowman (Hagerstown post-office), will give all 
 further information to those who may address them. 
 
 Art. 31. About railroad privileges for next year. Bro. 
 David Hardman and other corresponding members of the 
 above church, where the next Yearly Meeting will take 
 place, will make proper arrangements for the privilege of 
 railroads, usually granted, to make timely applications at 
 the different companies in their immediate vicinity. Bro. 
 D. P. Sayler was appointed to attend to the obtaining ot 
 the favor from the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad; Bro. 
 C. Custer to attend to the same on the Pennsylvania Cen- 
 tral ; John Metzger for other roads in the west, and Henry 
 Kurtz for the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway. 
 
 Art. 32. Resolved, that this meeting return its thanks 
 to those railroad companies that have grauted the favor of 
 excursion tickets, for their kindness. 
 
 From our records it appears that this year one hundred 
 and fifty-three churches were represented by thirty-seven 
 ordained elders, sixty-five ministers in the second, and sev- 
 enteen in the third degree, twenty-nine deacons, and ten 
 private members, and the whole meeting passed off in a 
 pleasant, and, we trust in God, profitable manner, and was 
 closed Wednesday afternoon with prayer, the crowd dis- 
 persing fast. 
 
 Signed by the standing committee : John Wine, of Vir- 
 ginia ; D. P. Sayler, of Maryland; Samuel Lehman and 
 Christopher Long, of Illinois ; Andrew Spanogle, Jsaac 
 Meyer, and John Holsinger, of Pennsylvania ; Henry D. 
 Davy and Daniel Miller, of Ohio ; John Metzger and F. 
 P. Loehr, of Indiana ; David Brower, of Iowa. 
 
 Henry Kurtz, 1 n] , 
 James Quinter, / L ' ler]iS - 
 
 John Kline, Moderator. 
 

 278 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1864. 
 
 By the kind permission of our heavenly Father a 
 very large number of brethren were permitted to meet, 
 according to previous arrangements. The religious serv- 
 ices commenced on Saturday, and were continued until 
 Monday noon. The multitude present was very large. On 
 Lord's-day there was preaching at six places. There seemed 
 to be a considerable desire manifested to hear preaching, 
 and good attention was manifested to the word preached. 
 
 On Monday morning the meeting was organized for busi- 
 ness by appointing a standiug committee and the necessary 
 officers. The delegates then reported themselves ; where- 
 upon it was ascertained that there were represented in this 
 meeting one hundred and fifty churches. These churches 
 were represented by two hundred and thirty delegates ; 
 these delegates were divided as follows : Ordained elders, 
 seventy-two ; elders, ninety-two ; teachers, twenty-two ; 
 deacons, twenty-five ; private members, eighteen The 
 business was then 'distributed among twelve sub-commit- 
 tees. These commenced reporting on Tuesday morning, 
 and the business to be transacted was thus brought before 
 the General Council, and we hope, in the fear of God, 
 acted upon. The following queries were presented to the 
 meeting and the annexed answers given : 
 
 Article 1. In no less than four papers the question is 
 presented, whether it is right and proper for a brother to 
 go to, or take part in, political elections, it being specially 
 stated that it had caused hard feelings and disunion ? An- 
 swer : We have been led to think that at all times it would 
 be best and most consistent with our profession, and spe- 
 cially most proper and safe in the present critical state of 
 things, to have nothing at all to do with politics, and en- 
 tirely to abstain from voting. (See II. Cor. vi. 14-17, also 
 Minute* of the Annual Meeting of 1863, Article 18.) 
 
 Art. 2. If a sister has a husband that is not a member 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 279 
 
 in the church, and it is known that he is an adulterer, is it 
 consistent with the gospel for her to live with him and be 
 his wife ? And if it is not consistent for her to do so, has 
 she a right to get a bill of divorcement according to law ? 
 Answer: As to the first part of the query, we think it 
 should be left to her choice whether to live with him or 
 not. And as to the second, we say, with Paul (I. Cor. vn. 
 10, 11), "But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried.'' 
 
 Art. 3. Is it right, according to the tenor of the gospel, 
 for brethren to erect lightning rods upon their buildings, 
 and to have their property and lives insured? Answer: 
 As to lightning rods, we fully agree with the answer given 
 by the Yearly Meeting of 1851, Article 7 : "Considered, 
 that we would not advise brethren to do so, nor would we say 
 to those who have them, to take them down, but advise all 
 our dear brethren to bear with each other in such matters, 
 and to try to put their chief trust in God." We likewise 
 agree with the Annual Meeting of 1847, concerning the 
 insurance of property: "Considered, that we can not ad- 
 vise brethren to do so, neither could we forbid its being 
 done in a mutual way." But as to getting their lives in- 
 sured, we advise the brethren to make use of no such priv- 
 ilege. 
 
 Art. 4. Inasmuch as there are many members of our 
 churches traveling from one state to another, and staying 
 from home from four to eight months, would it not be bet- 
 ter for members, under such circumstances, to obtain a cer- 
 tificate of membership from the church in which they live? 
 Answer: We think it would be better to do so. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it in accordance with the gospel for brethren 
 to donate money toward building meeting-houses of other 
 denominations? Answer: Finding no gospel upon the 
 subject alluded to in the query, we leave it to every one's 
 conscience to direct in the case. 
 
 Art. 6. Have the brethren a gospel-right to serve as ju- 
 
280 MINUTES OF 
 
 rora when the authorities call for them? Answer: No; as 
 we are admonished by the apostle (II. Cor. vi. 14-18.) 
 
 Art. 7. When the apostles prohibit the wearing of gold 
 and pearls (I. Tim. n. 9 ; I. Peter in. 3), are gold watches 
 to be included ? Answer: As the carrying of gold watches 
 may, and is likely to, lead to pride, we think it advisable 
 not to wear them. 
 
 Art. 8. How is it considered Dy the brethren in yearly 
 council assembled, in relation to members who do not con- 
 form to the order of the brethren in the wearing of apparel, 
 and in the wearing of their hair, but follow the fashions of 
 the world ? Answer : We think that the ministering breth- 
 ren should heartily admonish and urge the members to con- 
 form to the order of the brethren, and set them a good 
 example ; and if those who are admonished again and 
 again, and that by the church too, as well as by the minis- 
 ters, will not hear, the word of God directs us what to do 
 with them. (Matt, xviii.) 
 
 Art. 9. How does the Annual Meeting decide upon the 
 following case : A brother is totally blind, and his occupa- 
 tion for a living is dealing in groceries and in nearly all 
 kinds of intoxicating liquors. He was engaged in that 
 business before belonging to the church, and now claims 
 that the church should not prohibit him from selling liquor, 
 since he could not othewise make a living. Answer: We 
 consider that it is entirely wrong for any brother, whether 
 blind or not, to sell intoxicating liquors. 
 
 Art. 10. Is it considered right, according to the gospel, 
 for a minister to wear a soldier's overcoat when in the pul- 
 pit, or at other times ; and, if it is not, how is such a brother 
 to be dealt with, if he should continue to wear it after be- 
 ing admonished? Answer: It is considered not advisable 
 for any brother, whether a minister or private member, to 
 wear any military clothing, and if he is admonished, and 
 still persists in being disobedient, he should be dealt with 
 according to Matt. xvni. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 281 
 
 Art. 11. As the Annual Meeting of 1862 has justly con- 
 demned the selling of intoxicating liquors, what does the 
 Annual Meeting saj of the practice of such brethren as 
 engage in producing corn and other grain, and sell it to 
 distillers ? Answer : As the Scripture explicitly commands 
 us to "abstain from all appearance of evil" (I. Thess. v. 22), 
 we consider it best to advise brethren not to sell any grain 
 to distillers. 
 
 Art. 12. Inasmuch as there is still a difference of opin- 
 ion relative to the applicant for baptism declaring his agree- 
 ment with the church in regard to the principles of non- 
 resistance, non-swearing, and non-conformity to the world, 
 whether this should be done in the presence of the whole 
 congregation, or of the church only, we wish a decisive 
 answer, and not only a reference to the minutes of 1848 
 and 1858, as we have referred to these, but still get into 
 difficulty. Answer : We think it should be done in the 
 presence of the church only. 
 
 Art. 13. As the Annual Meeting has recommended the 
 holding of district meetings, we wish to know from it 
 whether it would be advisable to make a record of the pro- 
 ceedings of such district meetings ? Answer : We would 
 advise to keep no record of proceedings but what is to be 
 submitted to the Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art 1-4. Does the decision of the Annual Meeting of 
 1862, Article 58, prohibit us from taking the minutes of 
 the proceedings of our district meetings, for our own ben- 
 efit? Answer: Yes, we consider that it does. 
 
 Art. 15. How are we to hold a brother that keeps Sat- 
 urday for the Sabbath, works on Sunday, and strongly 
 contends that he is right? Answer: Inasmuch as the old 
 brethren have always observed the first day of the week as 
 a day of rest and public worship, we think such a brother 
 should be heartily admonished to conform to the order of 
 the brethren and the gospel, and if he does not do so, he 
 should be dealt with according to the gospel. 
 
282 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 16. Is it right, and according to the gospel, for a 
 brother to invest money in government bonds? Answer: 
 We consider it not wrong to do so. 
 
 Art. 17. Is it wrong to baptize or immerse sick persons 
 in a house ? Answer : We consider it is not advisable to 
 do so whenever it is possible to avoid it. 
 
 Art. 18. In case a brother commits a trespass openly be- 
 fore the world, should not such one make his acknowl- 
 edgments openly before the world also? Answer: No, he 
 should not. 
 
 Art. 19. Inasmuch as all that our Annual Meeting has 
 hitherto done to suppress the excessive or intemperate use 
 of tobacco, in smoking and chewing, has virtually proved 
 a failure, could not this meetiug adopt some method by 
 which the excessive use of this growing evil could be sup- 
 pressed in our brotherhood ? Answer : As the use of to- 
 bacco is offensive to some brethren and sisters, and the 
 excessive use of it an evil, we advise and counsel brethren 
 not to use it in time of worship, so as to be either filthy or 
 offensive to others, and we think our ministering brethren 
 rhould admonish their members not to indulge in the ex- 
 cessive use of it in any way, because it is wrong to do so. 
 
 Art. 20. Is it in harmony with gospel principles, and 
 with the practice of the church, for the housekeepers of one 
 church district to reject the counsel or aid of members from 
 neighboring districts, that have come to council or church 
 meeting, as it is customary for brethren to do, and even tell 
 them that they were not needed, so as to sway their coun- 
 cil? And if it be not proper, what shall be done with 
 brethren pursuing such a course ? Answer : We consider 
 it improper for the members of one congregation to go, 
 without being invited by another church, and take part in 
 their deliberations, and it is proper to inform them that 
 their aid can be dispensed with, if it is not wanted. 
 
 Art. 21. What is to be done with a person, who, after 
 being dismissed from the church, rails against the brethren, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 283 
 
 and speaks evil of them? Answer: We think he should 
 be dealt with according to I. Cor. v. 11: "2sTot to keep 
 company with such a one; no, not to eat." 
 
 Art. 21. Is it right for a brother to go to an election, 
 and there elect, or help to elect, a brother '(who takes no 
 part in elections) to fill an office in which he must either 
 serve or pay his fine? Answer: We consider it utterly 
 wrong for brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 23. Does this Annual Meeting consider civil gov- 
 ernment of divine authority, or a mere association for mu- 
 tual well being ? Answer : We consider that it is of divine 
 authority, from the testimony of the Apostle Paul. (See 
 Rom. xiii. 1-8.) 
 
 Art. 24. Does the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ allow 
 brethren to act as executors or administrators, especially 
 brethren in office or in the ministry ? Answer : We think 
 the gospel does not forbid brethren to act as executors or 
 administrators. 
 
 Art. 25. Is it in accordance with the gospel, and the or- 
 der of the brethren, for the church to receive and take can- 
 didates in with (or by) hand and kiss previous to the read- 
 ing of Matt, xviii., and then baptize them upon their pub- 
 lic confession? Answer: We think it is neither in accord- 
 ance with the gospel nor the order of the brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 26. Is it inconsistent with the gospel for the bread 
 and wine to be on the table with the supper, if a mojority 
 of any branch of the church thinks it well to have it so? 
 We think, in case of any change being desired in the estab- 
 lished order in any branch of the church, especially with 
 regard to the communion, it would always be best and 
 safest, for the preservation of love and union, to take no 
 steps in any change of this kind until the whole church is 
 united, and neighboring churches or the district meeting 
 consulted. 
 
 Art. 27. Is it right for members of our church to meet 
 members of other denominations, with hand and kiss, the 
 
284 MINUTES OF 
 
 same as we meet our own members ? Answer : We think 
 it not right to salute them as members. 
 
 Art. 28. Is it according to the gospel, and the order of 
 the brethren, to receive and baptize into the church such 
 as are in the military service, bearing arms in this war, or 
 to go into the camps and baptize such, and let them remain 
 in the service, or should they not first get a full discharge 
 before they can be received into the church by baptism ? 
 Answer: AVe can not encourage such proceedings; but in 
 case of extreme sickness, and when there is a promise to 
 shed no more blood, we will let the churches applied to de- 
 cide what shall be done ; but let the principles of the 
 church be acceded to by all candidates. 
 
 Art. 29. A brother being legally elected to the ministry 
 a year ago, and refuses to be installed, and seldom attends 
 church ; what shall be done in such a case ? Answer : The 
 brother should be admonished, and encouraged to attend 
 meetings and accept of his office, and the brethren should 
 try and bear with him as long as the wants of the church 
 will permit ; but if he will not serve, and the church needs 
 laborers, then it should elect others. 
 
 Art. 30. A minister in the first degree moves into another 
 district, and while absent from the first, is advanced to the 
 second degree in the district into which he moved. During 
 this time another brother was chosen to the ministry in the 
 first district, and advanced to the second degree, his elec- 
 tion having taken place after the first-named speaker's ad- 
 vancement. Now, the first-named speaker moves back into 
 the first district, after an absence of ten years, with a cer- 
 tificate certifying his good standing in the church in which 
 he had been living. Now, according to the gospel, and the 
 order of the brethren, which of the two is next to the elder 
 or bishop? or does the first brother forfeit his standing by 
 moving away from the flock ? Answer : The brother long- 
 est in the ministry, if a worthy minister, is next to the 
 elaer. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 285- 
 
 Art. 31. Since the Yearly Meeting favors district meet- 
 ings for the purpose of adjusting local difficulties, and to 
 lessen the labor of the Yearly Meeting, would it not be ad- 
 visable to form regular districts in each state, and close 
 them with lines, that individual churches may know to 
 what district they belong? And, if so, should not this 
 Yearly Meeting appoint brethren in each state to form such 
 districts in their respective states, and close them by mak- 
 ing such lines ? Answer : Yes ; but we will leave the dis- 
 tricting of the states to the churches in the respective states. 
 
 Art. 32. What authority have we in the New Testament 
 for three orders or grades in the ministry? And if there 
 be not three grades, how many are set forth in the word of 
 Christ and the apostles ? Answer : We defer this question 
 to the next Annual Meeting, recommending the brethren 
 to examine the scripture upon the subject 
 
 Art. 33. Will this Annual Meeting adopt some form or 
 order for forwarding ministers from one degree to another, 
 as it has been differently performed heretofore? Answer: 
 The order of the brethren, as already given by the Annual 
 Meeting, is to forward brethren by the hand and kiss. 
 
 Art. 34. How is it considered by the Annual Meeting, if 
 a brother or sister present a certificate of membership 
 where they wish to reside, and after awhile demand it 
 again, and receive it; do they thereby withdraw their mem- 
 bership from said district of the church? Answer: We 
 think they can not withdraw their membership legally by 
 so doing, and that certificates should not be given up under 
 such circumstances. 
 
 Art. 35. As our national troubles, consequent upon the 
 rebellion now existing in our country, have caused consid- 
 erable difficulty in our church, and have tried our non-re- 
 sistant principles, and have caused several questions con- 
 cerning the paying of bounty-money, voting, etc., to come 
 before this council-meeting, what counsel will this Annual 
 Meeting give upon these subjects? Answer: We exhort 
 
286 MINUTES OF 
 
 the brethren to steadfastness in the faith, and believe that 
 the times in which our lots are cast strongly demand 'of us 
 a strict adherence to all our principles, and especially to 
 our non-resistant principle, a principle dear to every sub- 
 ject of the Prince of Peace, and a prominent doctrine of 
 our' fraternity, and to endure whatever sufferings and to 
 make^whatever sacrifice the maintaining of the principle 
 may require, and not to encourage in any way the practice of 
 war. And we think it more in accordance with our prin- 
 ciples, that instead of paying bounty-money, and especially 
 in taking an active part in raising bounty-money, to await 
 the demands of the government, whether general, state, or 
 local, and pay the fines and taxes required of us, as the 
 gospel permits, and, indeed, requires. Matt. xxn. 21 ; Rom. 
 xin. 7. And lest the position we have taken upon political 
 matters in general, and war matters in particular, should 
 seem to make us, as a body, appear to be indifferent to our 
 government, or in opposition thereto, in its efforts to sup- 
 press the rebellion, we hereby declare that it has our sym- 
 pathies and our prayers, and that it shall have our aid in 
 any way which does not conflict with the principles of the 
 gospel of Christ. But since, in our Christian profession, 
 we regard these gospel principles as superior or paramount 
 to all others, consistency requires that we so regard them 
 in our practices. 
 
 Art. 36. It having been agreed upon, at a former time, 
 that our Yearly Meetings should be held alternately in the 
 east and west, the Allegheny Mountains being considered 
 the dividing line, it is requested that this meeting change 
 that line to the Ohio River. This request was granted. 
 
 Art. 37. Would it not be good to make some change in 
 holding our Yearly Meetings, for the purpose of prevent- 
 ing so great a multitude of people from being present? 
 And would it not, also, be better to have the conference 
 more private, and not to name on the minutes who were 
 chosen on the standing committee, or who was clerk, etc.? 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. L8 i 
 
 Answer : "We think it not expedient to make any change 
 at this time. 
 
 Art. 38. Requests for committees: 1. A request from 
 the church of Appanoose, Iowa, for a committee to visit it 
 to settle difficulties existing therein. The request was 
 granted, and the following brethren appointed : David 
 Brower, Jacob Brower, John Murray, and Jacob Waters. 
 2. A request from the Paint Creek Church, Ross County, 
 Ohio, for a committee. Referred to the elders present April 
 28th last,and to the church at Bear Creek, to do as they 
 may see fit. 
 
 Art. 39. Requests for the Annual Meeting : 1. Request 
 from the Antietam Church, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, 
 for the meeting in 1865, which was granted. 2. A request 
 from northern Illinois, for the meeting in I860. This re- 
 quest was accompanied by a request to have the meeting 
 two weeks later than the ordinary time of holding it, be- 
 cause of the latitude of that locality, and it was concluded 
 that if the meeting is held in northern Illinois, the request 
 of the brethren there, as regards the time, should be 
 granted, it being understood that the change of time is only 
 for that special occasion. 3. A request from the Pipe 
 Creek Church, Carroll County, Maryland, for the meeting 
 in 1867. The request from the Antietam Church being 
 granted, the Annual Meeting of 1865 will, the Lord will- 
 iug, be held with that church. 
 
 The following information is given for the satisfaction of 
 brethren wishing to attend the meeting : Those going from 
 the west, via Pittsburg, on the Pennsylvania Central Rail- 
 road, will take the Cumberland Valley Railroad at Harris- 
 burg, and stop at Greencastle. Those going by the Balti- 
 more and Ohio Railroad, will stop at Martinsburg, Vir- 
 ginia, and then take stage to Hageratown, Maryland. 
 They will then take the Cumberland Valley Railroad to 
 Greencastle. The distance from Greencastle to the meet- 
 ing, and the names of the brethren with whom corres- 
 
2S8 
 
 MINUTES OF 
 
 pondence can be held, will be given hereafter in the " Vis- 
 itor," as soon as ascertained. 
 
 Art. 40. Resolved, that this meeting returns its thanks 
 to such railroad companies as have granted the favor of ex- 
 cursion tickets for their kindness. 
 
 The meeting closed Wednesday noon, after the proceed- 
 ings, and all who were present, were commended to God 
 by prayer. Much Christian love was manifested among 
 the brethren, and it is hoped the labors of the meeting will 
 be acceptable and profitable to the church. 
 
 Standing committee, etc. : John Kline, John Wine, Vir- 
 ginia; Daniel P. Sayler, Maryland ; Leonard Furry, David 
 Gerlach, Pennsylvania ; Henry Davy, James Quinter, Ohio ; 
 David Miller, John Bowman, Daniel Bowman, Indiana; 
 Christian Long, Sam. Gerber, Illinois ; Jacob Brower, Iowa ; 
 John Bower, Kansas. 
 
 ANXUAL MEETING OF I860. 
 
 As usual, a very large number of persons assembled at 
 the place of meeting on Saturday, when the religious serv- 
 ices commenced, and they were continued until Monday 
 afternoon. There were represented in the council one hun- 
 dred and forty churches, by one hundred and eighty-two- 
 delegates. 
 
 The meeting was organized on Monday morning, after 
 which the delegates from the churches presented themselves 
 and handed in their papers. As the amount of business 
 before the meeting was considerable, it was thought advis- 
 able to form sixteen sub-committees. After the devotional 
 exercises on Tuesday morning, these committees commenced 
 reporting, and the General Council, in the fear of God, en- 
 tered upon its labors. The following questions were before- 
 the council and answered as herein stated : 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 289 
 
 Article 1. Could not this Annual Meeting' make some 
 change in the manner of holding our Annual Meetings, 
 which would be advisable and acceptable to the brother- 
 hood? Answer: This meeting feels the importance of a 
 change, but, not to make any change too hastily, it ap- 
 points the followiug committee to take this matter into 
 consideration to propose the result of their wisdom and 
 labor to the next Annual Meeting, for its acceptance or re- 
 jection : D. P. Sayler, Philip Boyle, Benjamin Mumaw, 
 Andrew Derrick, J. H. Umstad, John Wise, H. D. Davy, 
 John Hershey, Jacob Miller, Hiel Hamilton, Christian Long, 
 John Metzger, David Brower, and Frederick Loehr. 
 
 Art. 2. Which would be nearest to the gospel, and the 
 order of the church, when a committee is chosen to settle 
 a difficulty, to make known the accusation to the accused 
 and to the church before the committee withdraws, or to 
 withhold it from him and a part of the church till the com- 
 mittee has heard the witnesses and made their decision and 
 report? Answer: The accusation should be made known 
 to the church and the accused, and the accusers and the 
 accused should be face to face, that the latter may have 
 liberty to answer for himself, according to Acts xxv. 16. 
 
 Art. 3. The apostle James says, " Is any sick among 
 you ? let him call for the elders of the church,''* etc. Xow, 
 inasmuch as the apostle eayselders, and not ministers, in the 
 first and second degree, would it not be more consistent 
 with the gospel to send for ordained elders in all cases ? 
 Answer: We consider the decisions of the Annual Meet- 
 ing of 1850 and 1862 upon this subject satisfactory and 
 correct. (The following is taken from the minutes of those 
 years : Who are the proper persons in the church to admin- 
 ister the ordinance recorded in James v. 14? Considered, 
 the bishops or ordained elders. Article 30, 1850: Is there 
 any second order of persons in the church who may ad- 
 minister the above ordinance in cases of great and press- 
 ing necessit}*, when the proper administrators can not be 
 19 
 
290 MINUTES OF 
 
 had in time for the urgency of the case? Considered, in 
 such case brethren in less office, if at least one of them is 
 authorized to baptize, might serve. Article 31, 1850 : Who 
 are the elders spoken of by James, that are to be sent to 
 anoint the sick in the name of the Lord? Answer: The 
 ordained elders, if they cau be obtained, if not, the next 
 in office. Article 54, 1862.) 
 
 Art. 4. How is it considered when elders in different 
 churches teach that it is not necessary to send for elders to 
 anoint the sick, but that brethren in the first and second 
 degree can do it as well as elders ? Answer : We do not 
 consider it consistent with the gospel for elders so to teach. 
 
 Art. 5. Have committees, appointed to investigate diffi- 
 culties in churches other than the church in which they 
 hold their membership, the power to disown members in 
 the absence of the church council, or without consultation 
 with the elders of the church in which the difficulty exists ? 
 Answer: We consider that they have no such power. 
 
 Art. 6. Has any church a right, according to the order 
 of the brethren, to send a letter to the standing committee 
 of the Yearly Meeting, demanding of them that a certain 
 brother should have no right to assist the brethren in select- 
 ing committees that may be called for ? Answer : We con- 
 sider that no church has any right to make such a demand. 
 
 Art. 7. Whereas, the brethren at our last Annual Meet- 
 ing decided that " Civil Government is of divine authority" 
 (minutes of Annual Meeting, Article 23, 1864); and, whereas, 
 all civil governments are, and always have been, sustained 
 by the sword ; we therefore wish to know if it is right for 
 brethren to bear arms, when called upon to do so by the 
 authorities, in order to sustain the civil government? An- 
 swer : We consider that we have no right to take up arms. 
 
 Art. 8. How is it viewed for a brother or for brethren 
 to write against the ancient order and customs of the 
 church, and have their manuscripts or writings printed, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 291 
 
 and thus distributed in and out of the church? Answer: 
 We think it is not right to do so. 
 
 Art. 9. Whereas, the brethren have heretofore advised 
 against publishing the proceedings of the Annual Meeting 
 in the " Gospel Visitor," will they still disapprove of pub- 
 lishing them in our papers ? Answer : We think the min- 
 utes of our Annual Meeting had better be kept separate 
 from our public papers. 
 
 Art. 10. Since the counsel of the brethren, assembled at 
 our Annual Meetings for the last two year3, is, that breth- 
 ren should have nothing to do with politics, and to entirely 
 abstain from voting, how should we deal with such breth- 
 ren as will not hear said counsel? Answer: We advise 
 that such brethren be admonished in love, again and again, 
 to be subject to the counsel of the Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 11. A church needs a meeting-house, and by a 
 unanimous counsel of all present, agrees to build one by 
 taxation, each one paying in proportion to his true valua- 
 tion ; is it then consistent to make a non-compliance with 
 said counsel a test of fellowship ? Answer : We consider 
 that all those who fail to comply with the counsel, would 
 fall into the judgment of the church, but we recommend 
 in such cases that disinterested brethren from some other 
 church or churches be called to the council. 
 
 Art. 12. In case a member commits a trespass, and the 
 church views it as such, but the said member can not see 
 it as such, but says, "wherein I have done wrong I want 
 you to forgive me." Now, shall such an acknowledgement 
 be considered sufficient, or shall the offending member be 
 required to acknowledge to the wrong that he has done? 
 Answer : We consider that the church must judge of the 
 sufficiency of the acknowledgement of an offending mem- 
 ber. 
 
 Art. 13. Is it right, according to the gospel and our pro- 
 fession, for brethren to buy county bonds, beariug six per 
 cent interest, and shave them twelve and a half per cent ? 
 
292 MINUTES OF 
 
 Answer : We think it most consistent with our profession 
 not to deal in such stock. (The five articles which follow 
 next in order came from a district meeting in Virginia, and 
 were presented to this meeting for confirmation^ 
 
 Art. 14. Is it the duty of the church, in all cases, how- 
 ever aggravated, to reclaim an offending member upon an 
 acknowledgment, or should he be expelled, in extreme 
 cases, even though he should make acknowledgments? 
 Answer: We consider that, in extreme cases, such as men- 
 tioned by the apostle in I. Cor. v., the offending members 
 should be expelled and put away from the church until 
 they give evidence of true humility and contrition. 
 
 Art. 15. Can a brother be held as a member of the church 
 who will, when put into the army, take up arms and aim 
 to shed the blood of his fellow-man ? Answer : He can not. 
 
 Art. 16. As some brethren are of the opinion that the 
 communion should be observed more frequently, say three 
 or more times in a year, what is the counsel of this meet- 
 ing'in regard to it ? Answer : We think it should be sub- 
 mitted to the discretion of each arm of the church to have 
 as many as two or three in a year, but we exhort brethren 
 in this, as in all other cases, to guard against extremes. 
 
 Art. 17. What is the decision of this meeting in case 
 brethren (especially official brethren) exercise a private in- 
 fiuence in the election of members to office in the church ? 
 If wrong, what is the extent of the offense, and how can 
 it be remedied ? Answer : We think such brethren should 
 be admonished, and earnestly entreated to desist from such 
 a course ; and, if that will not control him, a committee 
 should be appointed to inform him that if his course is per- 
 sisted in he will fall into the judgment of the church. The 
 committee should be called from another church. 
 
 Art. 18. What is the decision of the council in the case 
 of an elder who refuses to fill the duties of his office ? 
 Answer : (As the answer to this question is precisely the 
 same, word for word, with the answer to the last article, we 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 293 
 
 presume this statement and a reference to that answer are 
 sufficient.) 
 
 Art. 19. How is it considered if a brother who is drafted 
 hires a substitute to perform military service, and after- 
 ward removes into another district — shall the church grant 
 him a certificate of membership? Answer: Since the law 
 has exempted brethren from military duty, by paying a tax 
 in lieu of service, we consider that brethren do wrong to 
 resort to other means, unless they are ignorant of the pro- 
 visions of the law. 
 
 Art. 20. Is it according to the spirit of the gospel to re- 
 ceive expelled penitent members, as directed by the Annual 
 Meeting ot 1840, Article 13, which reads thus: "It was, 
 and is, the mode of the brethren for the members to remain 
 in their places, and the members to be received again, to 
 go from one to another, and thus to be received," etc. An- 
 swer : We think there is no necessity for a change in the 
 manner of receiving fallen members. 
 
 Art. 21. Is it according to the order of the brethren, and 
 the spirit of the gospel, for the brethren to order and obey 
 those proclamations made by the President of the United 
 States, and the governors of the states, recommending the 
 observance of certain days, such as Thanksgiving days? 
 Answer: Yes, if such proclamations do not conflict with 
 the spirit of the gospel. 
 
 Art. 22. As the decisions of the Annual Meeting are not 
 obeyed by all the overseers of the church, would it not be 
 better to district the churches, and extend to those the 
 power to return to the standing committee all those who 
 fail to carry out the advice of the Annual Council? Au- 
 <wpr: Yes. 
 
 Art. 23. When a member is expelled, according to Matt. 
 xviii., and does not ask for a rehearing, or a committee at 
 the time he refuses to hear the church, how long is it 
 thought advisable to allow the right to a rehearing, or is a 
 church in duty bound to grant it at any time? Answer: 
 
294 MINUTES OF 
 
 We consider it best not to limit the time in which a re- 
 hearing may be obtained, but an expelled member, wishing 
 a rehearing, should apply for one as soon as practicable. 
 
 Art. 24. How will the brethren, assembled in Annual 
 Council, consider the case where elders and ministers have 
 taken sides with the rebels in this bloody rebellion, and 
 voted for separation ; can they be held as divine teachers, 
 or not? Answer: They can not, according to the -gospel. 
 
 Art. 25. Is it consistent with the gospel to retain mem- 
 bers in the church who have voluntarily aided and abetted 
 in the rebellion by voting for separation, or by otherwise 
 encouraging it ? Answer: Xo ; such should be put away 
 from among us. 
 
 Art. 26. Is it right for ministering brethren, or for pri- 
 vate members, to speak evil of the rulers of our land in 
 public, and pray that God would open their eyes and change 
 their wicked hearts? And, if it is not right, what is to be 
 done with those who do so ? Anwver : AVe consider it 
 wrong to do so (Acts xxni. 5), and that brethren that have 
 done so should make an acknowledgment for it and prom- 
 ise to do so no more. 
 
 Art. 27. what portion of God's word furnishes us with 
 authority, either by commandment, precedent, or example, 
 for funeral preaching, and especially after the interment 
 has been done for months and even years ? Answer: We 
 have positive scriptural authority to preach the word at all 
 times and on all occasions when called on. (See II. Tim. 
 iv. 2.) 
 
 Art. 28. Has any brother a right to preach that is not 
 elected by the voice of the church ? Answer : We think 
 not, according to the apostolic practice and teaching. (See 
 Acts i. 26; vi. 3; II. Tim. II. 2.) 
 
 Art. 29. Has any brother a right to call on a brother to 
 preach in public, who is not yet elected to preach ? An- 
 swer: We think not, for it is contrary to the gospel, and 
 it causes offense and confusion in the church. 
 
ON UAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 295 
 
 Art. 30. If a brother remove from one arm of the church 
 to another, and can not obtain a certificate of membership 
 from the former church, can the church into which he 
 moved, understanding the difficulty with the former church, 
 be the judge-in the matter? Answer: We think not. 
 The church from which the member moved should give 
 the certificate 
 
 Art. 31. Is it right for any of our ministering brethren 
 to entertain pro-slavery principles, and preach them pub- 
 licly and privately ? Answer : It is considered not right, 
 according to Luke vi. 31, and if any brother should persist 
 in doing so, he should be dealt with according to Matt. xvin. 
 
 Art. 32. How does this meeting consider that part of I. 
 Cor. v., which treats on " avoidance," as practiced by some 
 of our churches ? Heferred to the next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 33. Will this Annual Meeting reconsider Art. 5, 
 of the minutes of 1864? Answer: ]S"o. The following: is 
 the query referred to, with the answer: "Is it in accord- 
 ance with the gospel for brethren to donate money toward 
 building meeting-houses of other denominations? Find- 
 ing no gospel upon the subject alluded to in fche query, we 
 leave it to every one's conscience to direct in the case." 
 
 Art. 34. Does the Annual Council make laws, or give 
 advice only, in cases where it has no direct gospel on the 
 subject? Answer: It gives advice only. 
 
 Art. 35. Would it not be advisable, in case of an evil 
 report against a member, to take the evidence of persons 
 without the church, if considered by the church as persons 
 of truth, to test the matter, if such evidence be carefully 
 handled? Answer: Yes, for the purpose of testing the 
 truth of the report ; but an action or condemnation with- 
 out an acknowledgment of the accused, or without the evi- 
 dence of members, would not be proper. 
 
 Art. 36. Does this Annual Meeting consider the decisions 
 of sectional councils, which are not brought to the Annual 
 Meeting, the same as those decided by the Annual Meeting ; 
 
296 MINUTES OF 
 
 and it they do, why not take ruinutes of them, so that sat- 
 isfaction could be returned to their brethren, who were dis- 
 satisfied, by epistle or by word of mouth, as the apostles 
 and elders did at Jerusalem, in the first council ? Answer: 
 We consider that all district councils should be careful rot 
 to undertake to pass resolutions or decisions concerning 
 the general principles or practice of the whole fraternity, 
 but refer them rather to the Annual Meeting, and confine 
 themselves simply to the settlement of local matters. 
 
 Art. 37. Is it a violation of the gospel to feed the peo- 
 ple on communion occasions ? Answer : We think it is 
 not. 
 
 Art. 38. A request to reconsider Art. 23, of 1864. 
 Answer: We consider the answer sufficient as it is. The 
 following is the query referred to, with the answer : "Does 
 this Annual Meeting consider civil government of divine 
 authority, or a mere association for mutual well being? 
 Answer: We consider that it is of divine authority, from 
 the testimony of the Apostle Paul. (See Rom. xin. 1-8.") 
 
 Art. 39. A request to reconsider Art. 16, of the min- 
 utes of 1864. Answer: We judge it best to make no 
 change at present in relation to the question alluded to. 
 The following is the query referred to, with the answer: 
 "Is it right, and according to the gospel, for a brother to 
 invest money in government bonds? Answer: We con- 
 sider it not wrong to do so." 
 
 Art. 40. Is it contrary to the gospel to raise funds by 
 taxation ? Answer : It is not contrary to the gospel to do 
 so. 
 
 Art. 41. What is the order of the church in ordaining a 
 minister by laying on of hands ? Answer : It is as follows : 
 1. A request is deemed necessary to be made by the church, 
 and approved by the elders present. 2. Then the elders 
 take the sense of each member, one by one, to know whether 
 they are satisfied with ordaining the brother oldest in office. 
 And if they agree, and no serious objection is made, the 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 297 
 
 ordination is proceeded with, which is done by laying on 
 of hands, with prayer, and then the members receive the 
 brother as at the first installation. 
 
 Art. 42. As we profess to be a plain people, is it right for 
 brethren to use gilt-edged hymn-books and Bibles, when 
 plain ones are just as good, and more becoming our pro- 
 fession ; and should the brethren be allowed to make and 
 sell such ? Answer : We advise the brethren to be careful 
 in such matters. 
 
 Art. 43. A church being in council assembled, agree 
 pretty much unanimously no more to countenance voting 
 at political elections, according to counsel of the Annual 
 Meeting; is it consistent, then, to make a violation of the 
 counsel of said meeting a test of fellowship, if there is no 
 disposition on the part of those who violate said counsel to 
 make an acknowledgment for it? We want a more defi- 
 nite answer than heretofore given. Answer : Such breth- 
 ren should be admonished again and again, and if they will 
 not adhere to the counsel of the church, then they should 
 be dealt with according to Matt. xvnr. 
 
 Art. 44. When a church makes a choice for an officer, 
 or for officers, and the bishop and ministers in the church 
 in which the election is to be held, vote, when is the proper 
 time for them to vote, at the beginning or at the close of 
 the election? Answer: We think they should, by all 
 means, vote at the beginning, if they vote at all, and that 
 they should be careful to observe the well-established rules 
 of the brethren relative to such occasions, especially in call- 
 ing elders from adjoining churches to be present at such 
 times. 
 
 Art. 45. What is the difference (if there is .any differ- 
 ence) for brethren to have their property insured, or to have 
 their lives insured, as it appears from Art. 3, of the minutes 
 of 1864, that there is quite a difference? Answer: We 
 think there is quite a difference, since we do not think it 
 right to put a money value upon human life, while we may 
 on property. 
 
298 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 46. Inasmuch as some districts have taken council 
 to entirely abstain from voting at political elections, what 
 does the Annual Meeting say to those housekeepers and 
 districts that still continue to vote, and cause hard feelings 
 by doing so ? Answer : We admonish such housekeepers 
 and districts to submit to the decisions of the Annual 
 Meeting of 1864, query 1; and if they refuse to do so, they 
 will be dealt with according to Matt, xviii. 
 
 Art. 47. How are the churches to hold and proceed with 
 those members, who, in heart and soul, have been in sym- 
 pathy with the rebellion, denouncing the government, and 
 speaking evil of our rulers, especially of President Lincoln ? 
 As many members are unwilling to commune with such, a 
 scriptural answer is required. Answer : "We consider such 
 brethren as transgressors of the Word, and admonish them 
 to make satisfactory acknowledgment to the church ; and 
 if they refuse to do so, they should be dealt with accord- 
 ing to the gospel. (See Acts xxm. 5 ; Rom. xin. ; II. Peter 
 II. 10; Titus in. 1.) 
 
 Art. 48. Is it considered according to the gospel, and ac- 
 cording to the order of the brethren, for absent members 
 to send their votes to an election in the church by the hands 
 of other members? Answer: It is not. 
 
 Art. 49. Inasmuch as there is still a difference of opinion 
 relative to brethren having lightning-rods on their build- 
 ings, we wish a decisive answer; and not only a reference 
 to the minutes of 1851 and 1804, as we have referred to 
 them, but still get into difficulty. Likewise the same sat- 
 isfaction in regard to having our property insured is de- 
 sired. Answer : We consider it would not be advisable to 
 encourage brethren to do so, but think we should bear with 
 brethren who have already done so. 
 
 Art. 50. If a bishop be accused with a fault in ruling or 
 keeping house, and the church calls a committee of elders 
 and delivers unto them the charges, and the committee, 
 upon deliberation, suspends him, or relieves him of his 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 299 
 
 office, without informing him (the accused) of the charges 
 against him, and giving him no privilege of answering to 
 the charges, and of defending himself, are the proceedings 
 of the church and committee according to order and jus- 
 tice ? Answer : No. 
 
 Art. 51. As many brethren seem to so far disregard the 
 advice of the Annual Council as to send to the "Gospel 
 Visitor" and "Christian Companion" articles exposing, 
 through their editors, the counsel of the old brethren, will 
 this meeting adopt means to put a stop to these things? 
 Answer : We consider it wrong to do so, and think we 
 should not disregard the counsel and decisions of the An- 
 nual Meeting ; and such articles as oppose the order of the 
 brethren should not be published, and if the brethren still 
 persist in doing so, they should be dealt with as offenders. 
 
 Art. 52. Where is the gospel, either in command, precept, 
 or example, that justifies the idea that there is a first, a sec- 
 ond, and a third degree in the ministry? Answer: We 
 have plain scripture to teach a grade of officers in the 
 church. (See Eph. iv. 11) : " He gave some, apostles ; 
 some, prophets ; some, evangelists ; and some pastors and 
 teachers." 
 
 Art. 53. If there is a council-meeting appointed in one 
 arm of the church, has the elder of that district a right to 
 invite another elder of another arm or district to come and 
 assist him in his church, or must the elder of the church, 
 in all such cases, first ask the congregation before he in- 
 vites another elder to help him ? Answer : We think it is 
 advisable for the elder to consult the church, or at least his 
 co-laborers. 
 
 Art. 54. Inasmuch as there is a difference of opinion, 
 and some aggrievance, in regard to bells on church houses, 
 we wish the Annual Meeting to decide the matter. An- 
 swer : Decided not to have them. 
 
 Art. 55. Can the brethren, assembled in our annual dis- 
 trict church meetings, pass decisions contrary to the decis- 
 
-300 MINUTES OF 
 
 ions of our Annual Conference, and compel the brethren 
 to practice the same ? No. 
 
 Art. 56. Inasmuch as there is a difference in the brother- 
 hood in holding an inquest where there is application made 
 for baptism, and for letters of recommendation, some doing 
 it before the whole congregation, and others doing it before 
 the church only. It is desired that in this all the churches 
 practice alike, as members are moving from one state to 
 another, and such difference causes hard feelings and 
 trouble. Answer: We consider such inquest should be 
 held before the church only. 
 
 Art. 57. Inasmuch as the brethren in last Yearly Meet- 
 ing advised brethren to abstain entirely from voting, and 
 when one church receives the minutes, they are read to the 
 church, and the members are admonished not to go to the 
 election, and the elder takes the counsel of the church, and 
 there is a united voice not to go, but there are a few breth- 
 ren who were not present at the council-meeting, and the 
 decision of the church is sent to them, and they are ad- 
 vised not to go to the election ; and then some of the 
 brethren go to the election, when the visiting brethren are 
 sent the second time to notify them not to go, but they go 
 again, after which they are requested to come to the coun- 
 cil-meeting, but do not come. The church is then admon- 
 ished to bear with them, and they are admonished again 
 not to go. If, after all this, they still will go, what is to be 
 done with such brethren ? Answer : They should be dealt 
 with according to Matt. xvur. 
 
 Whereas, it has been plainly proved to the brethren 
 assembled at this Annual Meeting, that William C. Thur- 
 man did, on different occasions, say things publicly in his 
 preaching against the practice of the brethren, and has 
 done the same in his writings, and by the course he has 
 pursued he has given offense to the brethren ; it is, there- 
 fore, the decision of this meeting that we can not recognize 
 him as a minister of the gospel among us until he gives 
 satisfaction to the church. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 301 
 
 Requests for committees: 1. The following brethren 
 constitute the committee to the Beaver Dam Church, Mary- 
 land : H. D. Davy, J. P. Ebersole, John Wise, and Jos. E. 
 Hanawalt. 2. For Kansas: Christian Long and J. Metz- 
 ger. 3. For Jasper County, Iowa : Christian Long, Jacob 
 Berkey, John Metzger, and J. P. Ebersole. 4. For Berlin, 
 Somerset County, Pennsylvania: H. D. Davy, J. P. Eber- 
 sole, and John Wise. 5. For the Wabash Church, Indi- 
 ana : Jacob Miller, of Portage, Daniel B. Sturgis, Hiel 
 Hamilton, and John Bowman. 6. For Bourbon, Indiana: 
 Abraham Whitmer, Christian Wenger, David Rupple, and 
 John Nisely. 7. For Salamony Church, Indiana: H. D. 
 Davy, J. P. Ebersole, Jacob Miller, of Portage, and John 
 Metzger. 
 
 Contributions for the brethren in Virginia and Tennes- 
 see : Bro. Wrightsman, from Tennessee, and Bro. Mumaw, 
 from Virginia, stated to the meeting that the brethren in 
 those states need assistance, and that they must suffer un- 
 less they get assistance ; whereupon the meeting appointed 
 D. I*. Sayler as a receiver to receive contributions for the 
 relief of said brethren. The meeting likewise directed him 
 to appropriate the funds now in his hands, collected for the 
 Oregon mission, to the same purpose. Bro. Sayler's post- 
 office is Double Pipe Creek, Carroll County, Maryland. If 
 money is sent by express to him it should be sent to him 
 in care of the agent of the express compauy, Frederick City, 
 Maryland. 
 
 Request for the Annual Meeting: The Pipe Creek Church, 
 Maryland, renews its request for the Annual Meeting for 
 1867". 
 
 The meeting closed on Wednesday afternoon with devo- 
 tional exercises. 
 
 Standing committee, etc.: D. P. Sayler, Maryland; Jo- 
 seph Arnold, Virginia ; Joseph R. Hanawalt and John 
 Wise, Pennsylvania; Peter Nead and H. D. Davy, Ohio; 
 
302 MINUTES OF 
 
 Jacob Miller aud Hiel Hamilton, Indiana ; Isoni Gibson 
 and John Metzger, Illinois ; Frederick P. Loehr, Michigan ; 
 David Brower, Iowa ; John Bower, Kansas. 
 
 James Quinter, Clerk. 
 H. 1). Davy, Moderator. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1866. 
 
 The meeting was organized on Monday morning, after 
 which the delegates from the churches reported themselves, 
 and it was ascertained that one hundred and sixty-five 
 churches were represented by two hundred delegates. JThe 
 delegates were divided into fifteen sub-committees, and to 
 these the business was committed, that they might report to 
 the General Council. The General Council commenced 
 business on Tuesday morning, after devotional exercises. 
 The deferred business of last Annual Meeting being the first 
 •business in order before the council, the committee appointed 
 at that meeting to devise some plan for holding our Annual 
 Meetings, which will be more satisfactory to the brotherhood, 
 was called upon for its report and submitted the following : 
 
 INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 
 
 The authority for holding general conference meetings 
 is founded on the fifteenth chapter of the Acts of the Apos- 
 tles, and a strict compliance with the example therein is 
 advisable. By reference to said Scripture, we learn that 
 the question in dispute, and upon which the disciples dif- 
 fered, was not referred to a General Council until all efforts 
 had failed to settle it in the church in which it originated. 
 The following language occurs in the chapter above refer- 
 red to : "When, therefore, Paul and Barnabas had no small 
 dissension and disputation with them, they determined 
 that Faul and Barnabas, and certain others of them, should 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 303 
 
 go up to Jerusalem uuto the apostle and elders about the 
 question." Here seems to be authority to send questions 
 upon which the brethren differ in their judgments to a 
 General Council, and that the bishops ought to go, and 
 also to have certain others with them. It is further said : 
 "And being brought on their way by the church, they 
 passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the con- 
 version of the gentiles ; and they caused great joy unto all 
 the brethren."' Here we see that those who were sent were 
 brought on their way by the church. So should we do ; 
 that is, help such to go that we send. It is said further 
 that "the apostles and elders came together to consider this 
 matter." Hence we see that the Council Meeting should 
 be for conference only. 
 
 THE ANNUAL MEETING. 
 
 We recommend that the Annual Council be formed by 
 the delegates sent by the district meetings, and by all the 
 ordained elders present ; that the meeting be held at the 
 place designated by the council the preceding year, to com- 
 mence on the. first Tuesday after Whit Sunday, the previous 
 Lord's-day (Whit Sunday) to be spent as it has hitherto 
 been by the brethren in worship, at such places in the 
 vicinity in which the meeting is to be held as shall be de- 
 sired, and as may be judged most profitable ; that there be 
 no public meeting for worship ( where the'council-meeting 
 is held, though the meeting should be opened with devo- 
 tional exercises, and the reading of the fifteenth chapter of 
 Acts, and likewise closed with devotional exercises ; that 
 the meeting still be held alternately, in the east and in the 
 west. 
 
 THE DISTRICT-MEETINGS. 
 
 We recommend that each state form itself into conven- 
 ient district-meetings. These meetings shall be formed by 
 one or two representatives from each organized church, 
 
304 -MINUTES OF 
 
 and we recommend that eacli church be represented in the 
 district meeting, either by representatives or by letter. 
 "We think it best to hold those meetings in simplicity, and 
 as much like the common council-meetings are held, as 
 possible. A record of the district-meetings may be kept, 
 but not published. They should endeavor to settle all 
 questions of a local character. But those of a general 
 character, or those that concern the brotherhood in gen- 
 eral, should be taken to the Annual Meeting. And all 
 questions that can not be settled at the district-meetings 
 should be taken to the Annual Meeting. In taking ques- 
 tions from the district to the Annual Meetings, they should 
 be correctly and carefully formed ; and all queries from 
 district-meetings should be accompanied with an answer. 
 But in case those meetings can not agree upon any ques- 
 tions, then they shall be referred to the standing commit- 
 tee, and this shall form answers to the questions before they 
 be read before the General Council. And it is considered 
 very desirable, and indeed necessary, that in all cases in 
 answering questions, both in district and Annual Meetings,, 
 that some Scripture authority or reason be given for the deci- 
 sion, though it should be done as briefly as possible. 
 
 No business can come before district meetings until it 
 has passed through the church in which it originated. It 
 is understood that any member falling under the counsel 
 of the church, and being dissatisfied with the decision, may 
 appeal to the Annual Meeting by presenting a petition, 
 signed by a number of the members of the church. Noth- 
 ing in this arrangement shall be so construed as to prevent 
 any member from presenting himself before the standing 
 committee of the Annual Meeting, to offer any thing that 
 can not be brought before it in the manner prescribed, and 
 the committee shall hear his case and dispose of it accord- 
 ing to its judgment. 
 
 The church holding the meeting shall make arrange- 
 ments to receive and entertain all the brethren and sisters 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 305 
 
 privately. There shall be no boarding-tent put up at the 
 place of meetiug to entertain and feed a mixed multitude, 
 as heretofore. 
 
 All churches shall have the privilege to call on the Gen- 
 eral Council-meeting for committees to investigate griev- 
 ances, and it shall be its duty to appoint such committees 
 as heretofore. 
 
 THE ORGANIZATION OF THE ANNUAL .MEETING. 
 
 The bishop and elders of the church holding the Annual 
 Meeting shall select, from among the bishops present, the 
 standing committee. Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, 
 Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, shall each be entitled to three, 
 if present, and two, if present, from each of the remaining 
 states in which churches are established, and whenever said 
 states shall contain ten bishops each, they also shall be en- 
 titled to three. The standing committee shall choose its 
 own officers, and these shall be a moderator, two clerks, 
 and a door-keeper. It shall be the duty of the moderator 
 to keep order among the members of the committee, and 
 also in the public meeting. He shall not permit two breth- 
 ren to speak at the same time, and he shall decide who is 
 entitled to the floor. He shall also keep the speakers to 
 the question, and declare the query passed, after general 
 consent, by silence. It shall be the duty of the first clerk 
 to keep a faithful record of all the queries and answers, 
 and prepare them for publication. It shall be the duty of 
 the second clerk to read distinctly all papers as often as re- 
 quested. It shall be the duty of the door-keeper to take 
 charge of the room in which the committee meet for busi- 
 ness, and he shall allow no intrusion in time of session. 
 
 As soon as the standing committee has been named they 
 shall retire to a private room for organization and the re- 
 ception of the queries presented by the delegates from the 
 district-meetings (or churches), after which all proper 
 
 queries shall be read to the General Council-meetinsr for 
 20 
 
306 MINUTES OF 
 
 adoption or amendment, and sub-committees be dispensed 
 with. 
 
 The proceedings of the Annual Meetings shall be pub- 
 lished, and it is earnestly recommended that all the over- 
 seers of churches, whether ordained or not, have them 
 faithfully read and observed in their respective charges. 
 And if it be represented to the Annual Meeting that this 
 recommendation is disregarded, it shall be the duty of the 
 standing committee to appoint faithful brethren, whose 
 duty it shall be to visit said churches, and see that the 
 minutes are properly read and observed, and to set in order 
 things that are lacking. The above is unanimously rec- 
 ommended to the Annual Meeting by the committee. 
 
 Signed by the committee : D. P. Sayler, Henry Koontz, 
 of Maryland; Benjamin Moomaw, of Virginia; David 
 Derick, of Tennessee ; John H. Umstad, John Wise, of 
 Pennsylvania; II. D. Davy, James Quinter, John Hershey, 
 of Ohio ; Jacob Miller, Iliel Hamilton, of Indiana ; Chris- 
 tian Long, John Bowman, of Illinois; David Brown, of 
 Iowa. 
 
 Three members of the committee not being present, 
 John Bowman, Henry Koontz, and James Quinter, were 
 appointed to fill their places. 
 
 This report being read before the General Council, was 
 adopted by the following resolution : 
 
 Resolved, That we try the committee's report for at least 
 a sufficient length of time to give it a fair trial. 
 
 Article 1. A number of questions being presented upon 
 the subject of voting, and some asking for a repeal of for- 
 mer minutes, the following resolution, as an answer to those 
 questions, was adopted : 
 
 Resolved, That we think it most expedient not to repeal 
 any minutes touching voting; that this Annual Meeting 
 recommends to the members of the church to refrain from 
 voting, fearing that by voting we may compromise our non- 
 resistant principles ; but we recommend forbearance toward 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 307 
 
 those who vote, not making voting a test of fellowship, 
 hoping that in time they will see with the body of the 
 brethren upon this subject. 
 
 Art. 2. Inasmuch as the Annual Meetin'g has frequently 
 decided against the brethren voting, is it not inconsistent, 
 and even injurious to the brotherhood, for brethren to write, 
 and editors to publish, any thing in opposition to those de- 
 cisions ? Answer : We think that our brethren, who write 
 and print articles, should be very careful not to promote 
 strife and divisions in the church, but peace, love, union, 
 and holiness. 
 
 Art. 8. Is it according to the gospel to hold church 
 meetings in secresy, as we are commanded to take Christ 
 for our example ; and he said : " In secret have I said noth- 
 ing?" John xviii. 20. Answer: It is accordino* to the 
 gospel, inasmuch as the Savior only says : " In secret have 
 I said nothing." Consequently this does not prohibit us 
 from transacting church business in secresy, his language 
 not applying to church meetings. In holding church meet- 
 ings secretly, we act according to Matt, xviii, where the 
 Savior says : " Tell it unto the church." 
 
 Art. 4. If an elder rejects the decisions or counsel of a 
 committee sent by the Annual Meeting, the majority of the 
 church sustaining him, what course should be pursued to 
 bring him to submit? Answer : We consider it wrong for 
 an elder, with a part of the church, to reject the decision 
 of a committee sent by the Annual Meeting; but in such a 
 case the minority should have the privilege to apply for the 
 same, or another committee. 
 
 Art. 5. If a member receives a certificate of membership, 
 is he still considered a member of that arm of the church 
 in which he received the certificate, until he presents it in 
 another arm? And, if so, how long can a member hold a 
 certificate, without presenting.it, before he loses his mem- 
 bership entirely? Answer: We think he is, until he had 
 sufficient time to hand in his letter, and has willingly neg- 
 lected to do so. (See Paul to Philemon.) 
 
308 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 6. Does this Annual Meeting judge it expedient to 
 reconsider Art. 13, of the minutes of 1840, and Art. 20, of 
 the minutes of 1865? Answer: We think it not expedient 
 to do so. 
 
 Art. 7. Is it according to the order of the gospel for 
 brethren, being mourners, to keep their hats on in time of 
 funeral services, at prayer, and preaching, etc.? And 
 should brethren dress their dead after the fashion of the 
 world? Answer: We think not; for the apostle says; 
 "It is a shame for a man to pray or prophesy having his 
 head covered" (I. Cor. n.); and we think a white shroud 
 becomes our dead the best. 
 
 Art. 8. A man was baptized by the brethren, but he 
 afterward left the church, with the plea that he never be- 
 lieved there was a God, and that he joined the church for 
 worldly gain; but afterward he wishes to join the church, 
 and to be baptized, and says he now believes in Christ, and 
 lives as becomes a Christian. Can he be received without 
 being re-baptized ? It was considered best to defer this- 
 question to the next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 9. A member is charged with a crime, but before 
 the case was investigated he removes to a distant country. 
 Is it in accordance with the gospel for the church from 
 which he moved to expel that member without first inves- 
 tigating the case, either when he is present, or by writing? 
 Answer : We think that churches should be very careful 
 not to expel members without giving them an opportunity 
 of defending themselves; and, as a general rule, we con- 
 sider it improper to do so ; but there may be cases in which 
 the church is justified in expelling members in their ab- 
 sence. 
 
 Art. 10. Would it be profitable and apostolic to num- 
 ber the brethren and sisters, and report the numerical 
 strength of the brotherhood at the next Annual Meeting ? 
 Answer: We consider it not apostolic, inasmuch as the 
 apostles never gave the exact number of believers. Acts- 
 ii. 4-47 : iv. 4. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 309 
 
 Art. 11. There being a considerable number of persons 
 in Tennessee, belonging to a body of professing Christians, 
 known as the J. A. Bowman Church, he having been at 
 one time in fellowship with the brethren. This body ex- 
 pressed a wish to our brethren in Tennessee to become 
 united to the brethren, and a committee of brethren in 
 Tennessee was appointed to confer with the J. A. Bowman 
 Church relative to a union; but the brethren in Tennessee 
 preferred to submit the case to the Annual Meeting, and it 
 appointed the following brethren as a committee to visit 
 the J. A. Bowman Church to confer with it, and to receive 
 it into fellowship with us, if judged proper to do so : J. P. 
 Ebersole and II. D. Davy, of Ohio; John Metzger and C. 
 Long, of Illinois; Jacob Miller and J. Bowman, of Indi- 
 ana; J. Wise and D. M. Holsinger, of Pennsylvania; D. 
 P. Sayler and II. Koontz, of Maryland; Daniel Thomas 
 and Solomon Garver, of Virginia. 
 
 Art. 12. Can the brethren in Missouri take the oath of 
 loyalty, as set forth in the new constitution of that state, 
 to get the privilege to preach the gospel ? Answer: They 
 can not take that oath, if it conflicts with the principles of 
 the gospel, as the brethren receive those principles, but we 
 think that a proper construction of the constitution will 
 not require any compromise of our principles. And we 
 recommend to our brethren in Missouri to ascertain from 
 the proper officers the true import of the oath, to see 
 whether it doe3 conflict with our Christian principles. 
 
 Art. 13. As it is the practice in some congregations to 
 have the supper on the table at feet-washing, while in oth- 
 ers they have it not on, can not this Annual Meeting bring- 
 about a uniformity upon this subject? Answer: Though 
 we desire uniformity, yet we would refer the brethren, at 
 present, to Art. 21, of the Annual Meeting of 1863. 
 
 Art. 14. How is it considered if a minister violates his 
 -marriage contract, by committing adultery secretly, and 
 continues the transgression for over one year, and in the 
 
310 MINUTES OF 
 
 meantime seeks and obtains the ordained elder's place, 
 discharges all the holy functions of that office, preaching, 
 baptizing, anointing the sick, solemnizing marriages, and 
 breaking bread; can he ever be received again? And, if 
 so, how long after having been expelled? Answer: "We 
 think he can, as a private member, but not until the church 
 in which he lives is fully satisfied that his conduct through- 
 out proves that he has indeed repented. II. Cor. n. 6-8. 
 
 Art. 15. Is it right for a brother to lease a piece of 
 ground to an agricultural society, for ten years, for the 
 purpose of holding county fairs on? If not, what shall be 
 done with such a brother? Answer: "We consider it not 
 right ; and we think he should give satisfaction to the 
 church ; and should he refuse to do so, let him be dealt 
 with according to Matt, xviii. 
 
 Art. 16. "What shall be done in case a husband will not 
 live with his wife, and she obtaius a divorce, and marries 
 another, and after living with him for several years, she de- 
 sires admission into the church, and is received; but some 
 object to her reception, saying they can not fellowship her; 
 can she be retained as a member? And, if so, what shall 
 be done with those who refuse to fellowship her? Answer : 
 "We think, under existing circumstances, she can not be 
 retained as a member. (See Minutes of 1850, Art. 12.) 
 
 Art. 17. Is it in accordance with the gospel for minis- 
 tering brethren, when traveling, to keep and have published 
 a record of their travels, telling how many meetings they 
 attended, how many were converted, who took them from 
 place to place, with whom they staid over night, besides 
 many little incidents seen by the way, etc. ? Answer : W 7 e 
 have no gospel command to do so, but if it is done it 
 should be to edification, and a too minute detail of partic- 
 ulars should be avoided, deeming that useless. 
 
 Art. 18. Should not brethren, according to the gospel, 
 be prohibited from selling and circulating books, circulars, 
 etc., at our Annual Meetings — hymn-books and Bibles ex- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 311 
 
 cepted? Answer: We think the gospel does not prohibit 
 us from selling books comporting with the gospel, and ap- 
 proved by the brethren. But we consider it not consistent 
 to do so on the Sabbath-day. 
 
 Art. 19. A request to reconsider answer to Art. 40, 
 1865 : It was reconsidered, but postponed. 
 
 Art. 20. Inasmuch as the subject of lightning-rods has 
 been before the Annual Council, and brethren have only 
 been advised to bear with oue another, which we consider 
 is no decision at all ; for, if right, why not recommend it 
 to all, and, if wrong, why tolerate it at all ? Answer : As 
 we have no command to erect or forbid lightning-rods, we 
 would not advise brethren to put up such rods, but the 
 brethren should bear with one another in love in such mat- 
 ters. (Minutes of 1351, Art. 7, and of 1856, Art. 25. 
 
 Art. 21. Inasmuch as the freedmen of the south are in a 
 starving condition, and also destitute of education and 
 Christianity, would not this district council-meeting (south- 
 ern district of Indiana) think it advisable to adopt some 
 plan for their relief, and present it to our next Annual Con- 
 ference for their deliberation ? Whereupon it was resolved 
 that this meeting make arrangements to raise funds, and 
 appoint two brethren ,to r go into the Southern States as 
 soon as the nature of the case will admit of it, and distrib- 
 ute those funds among the needy, irrespective of color, and 
 also preach the gospel whenever opportunity may present 
 itself. (Some further particulars relative to the manner of 
 raising the funds were given, but are here omitted for want 
 of room.) It. was further concluded to submit the above 
 to the Annual Meeting, and if not approved of, it was not 
 to be carried out. The following is the action of the An- 
 nual Meeting upon the above: We heartily approve of the 
 above, and bid our brethren God speed, and recommend to 
 our brotherhood to imitate the worthy example of our dear 
 brethren in southern Indiana. 
 
 Art. 22. Whose duty is it to perform the annual church 
 
312 MINUTES OF 
 
 visit? the visiting brethren's duty alone, or is it also a duty 
 enjoined upon the speakers to help to perform it? An- 
 swer : We consider it is the deacon's duty to perform the 
 yearly visit, by order of the church, as it belongs to their 
 commission ; yet, if speakers see proper to assist them, 
 they can do so. 
 
 Art. 23. Inasmuch as there is a difference of opinion 
 among the brethren in reference to what constitutes a rea- 
 sonable excuse for going upon stands or pulpits in meeting- 
 houses of other denominations, will the brethren in Annual 
 Council give a more definite answer upon this subject? 
 Answer : We recommend the brethren to bear with one 
 another, allowing every brother to keep his conscience 
 clear, as we have no " thus saith the Lord" for it. 
 
 Art. 24. Is it allowed for brethren to travel through the 
 country selling patent rights, and buying stock for specu- 
 lators, being looked at as sharp traders? If not approved 
 of, what shall be done in such cases ? Answer : This meet- 
 ing does not approve of brethren doing so, and if it is done, 
 Ave recommend the churches having the care of such who 
 do it, to attend to it. 
 
 Art. 25. What do the brethren call fallen members, those 
 that are in avoidance only, or all of them that are put out 
 of the church ? Answer : We think t-hat all that are put 
 out of the church by avoidance, or according to Matt, xvin., 
 are so called. 
 
 Art. 26. What shall the church do with a ministering 
 brother that has promised three times to the church to con- 
 form to the order of the church in point of dress and ap- 
 parel, and the time set for him to do so, but the time ex- 
 pires, and he does not make his promise good, and also in- 
 fluences members against conforming to the rules laid down 
 in the gospel relative to non-conformity to the fashion of 
 the world ? Answer : We advise the church having breth- 
 ren who fail to comply with their promises, as above stated, 
 to deal with them according to Matt. xvin. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 313 
 
 Art. 27. Inasmuch as pride and an inclination to follow 
 the fashions of the world are still increasing among us, in 
 wearing fine apparel, frock and sack coats, dusters, shawls, 
 etc., with the hair parted off to one side, or shingled and 
 roached, moustaches, etc.; the sisters also wearing fine ap- 
 parel, going without caps, wearing hoops, hats, vails, over- 
 coats, jewelry, etc.; and, as admonition, in some cases, has 
 not effected any thing, can not this Yearly Meeting pro- 
 pose some plan by which this growing evil may be arrested ? 
 Answer : We think members of the church, conforming to 
 the fashions of the world as above stated, should be ad- 
 monished again and again, and if they will not hear the 
 church, the Savior has given directions iu Matt, xviii. how 
 to deal with them. 
 
 Art. 28. Should not colored members be held equal with 
 white members iu church privileges? Answer: We refer 
 to minutes of 1835, Art. 1; and 1845, Art. 2; and 1849, 
 Art. 31. 
 
 Art. 29. Inasmuch as the Annual Meeting has decided 
 that bells on meeting-houses, giving offense, is wrong, does 
 this Annual Meeting say that bells on- meeting-houses in 
 towns or cities (though of great advantage) should be taken 
 down, or should they be regarded as lightning-rods, dinner 
 bells, and like' things, giving like offenses? and if not so 
 regarded, will this Annual Meeting give gospel grounds 
 for not admitting church bells on meeting-houses in towns 
 or cities? Answer: We think it best for brethren to be 
 subject to the decision of the Annual Meeting, and if rec- 
 onciliation can not be made, it would be best to take them 
 clown, according to Romans xiv. 15-21, and avoid giving 
 offense. 
 
 Art. 30. A young man enlists in the service of the gov- 
 ernment of the United States, and after being in camp a 
 month, deserts and returns home secretly, and,with the con- 
 sent of his parents, changes his name to his mother's maiden 
 name, retaining his given name as a middle name. He 
 
314 MINUTES OF 
 
 then goes into another part of the state and gets married, 
 and becomes a member of the church under his assumed 
 name. Some six or eight months afterward the church 
 gets to hear of this, and when he is asked concerning it, he 
 frankly admits that it was so, and was sorry that it so hap- 
 pened. What is now the duty of the church in this case? 
 Answer : Inasmuch as said brother entered into the mar- 
 riage contract under a fictitious name, and also in violation 
 of Romans xin. 1, and has also deceived the church, the 
 duty of said church would be to make it his duty to have 
 the marriage legalized, and make good satisfaction for said 
 deception. 
 
 Art. 31. Does this meeting approve of a brother who is 
 a physician to forward his reputation by stating in his bills 
 and circulars that he is a member of the German Baptist 
 Church ? Answer : We do not approve of it. 
 
 Art. 32. Is it agreeable with the gospel for brethren to 
 put a reward on their horses or other property when stolen, 
 and try to recover the same ? Answer : Is it not according 
 to Luke vi. 30. 
 
 Art. 33. Will the Annual Meeting inform what course 
 to pursue in the following case : A member is put in avoid- 
 ance, and an elder from another state, knowing it, visits, 
 salutes with the kiss, and eats with the avoided person 5 
 and when he is told that in doing so he has grieved the 
 brethren, he threatens the church or district. Answer 1 
 We consider that the church aggrieved should select a com- 
 mittee of three ordained elders, who shall notify the offend- 
 ing elder of the time and place of meeting, and then in- 
 vestigate the case, and dispose of it according to their 
 judgment. And we decide that an elder has no right to 
 disrespect the action of another church in this manner. 
 If a church should do wrong, it should be proceeded against 
 in the regular gospel manner. 
 
 Art. 34. Is it considered conforming to the world for 
 ministering brethren, or others, ta have musical instru- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 315 
 
 merits, such as melodeons, pianos, etc., in their houses, and 
 for their children, who are members of the church, to spend 
 their precious time in playing on such instruments? An- 
 swer: Considered, that it is tending too much in that di- 
 rection, the world being largely engaged in it, and we have 
 no example in the New Testament that it was ever in- 
 dulged in by Christians. Yet, if strictly confined to sarced 
 music, we can not positively prohibit it, but advise all the 
 beloved members to deny themselves of this indulgence, 
 believing that it is attended with dangerous consequences. 
 
 Art. 35. Is a single brother eligible to the office of bishop 
 or deacon? And does Paul mean, when he says to Timo- 
 thy, "Let the deacon be the husband of one wife," that he 
 must be a married man, or does he mean that he shall have 
 but one wife at a time? I. Tim. in. 12. Answer: We 
 consider that a single brother can hold the office of a bishop 
 or deacon, if duly qualified in other respects, and that mar- 
 ried brethren can hold either office, being the husband of 
 one wife at a time. 
 
 Art. 3G. AVhat is the proper course for members to pur- 
 sue when they hear a slanderous report against a member 
 of the church, or even persons of the world ? Answer : In 
 all cases we should hear reports with great allowance, and 
 when it is confirmed against a member, it should be brought 
 before the church through the official body. As to persons 
 of the world, we should, by no means, circulate slanderous 
 reports of them, it being, in all cases, calculated to engen- 
 der strife and confusion. 
 
 Art. 37. Inasmuch as the subject of avoidauce, at our 
 last Annual Meeting, was laid over for a more mature con- 
 sideration at this Annual Meeting, we, the brethren assem- 
 bled at an annual district council-meeting, petition this 
 . conference to make no change, but let the avoidance be en- 
 forced in certain cases. Considered, the majority of us are 
 not willing to make any change. 
 
316 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 38. Can a man be received into the church, and 
 hold his office as assessor? We think he can not consist- 
 ently with the gospel. John xviii. 36; Matt. vi. 24. 
 
 Art. 39. Is it allowed for brethren, and especially 
 preachers or deacons, to travel through the country, traf- 
 ficiug in fruit-trees, and, in their anxiety to sell, use great 
 efforts to sell at extravagant prices, making it quite a spec- 
 ulative business to themselves and to their employers? 
 Answer: We consider it wrong, according to Matt. vn. 12, 
 and brethren who deal in trees should deal honestly, as 
 they should in all their dealings. 
 
 Art. 40. How is it considered if a neighboring churcn 
 still holds persons as members who joined a secret society, 
 without calling them to answer for their conduct, the elders 
 knowing such to be the case? Shall we go to their com- 
 munion, or invite them to ours? Considered not accord- 
 ing to II. Cor. vi. 14. 
 
 Art. 41. Is it according to the gospel for members, or 
 any body of members, to pay a stated salary to our minis- 
 tering brethren, for the support of their families, that they 
 may give themselves wholly to their ministerial labors? 
 Answer: Not wrong to support the ministry, where it is 
 needed. I. Tim. v. 18 ; Luke x. 7. But we do not approve 
 of paying a stated salary. 
 
 Art. 42. How is it considered by the brethren in Annual 
 Council, for sisters, who are in needy circumstances, to 
 avail themselves of the benefit of an act, passed by the leg- 
 islature of Pennsylvania, granting a gratuity and pension 
 to the soldiers of the war of 1812, or to their widows? 
 ^Considered right for them to receive it. 
 
 Art. 43. Would it not be more consistent with the teach- 
 ing of the gospel, in receiving disowned members, for the 
 members of the church to go to the disowned members, 
 and receive them, than for the disowned members to go 
 around to the members of the church, and be received by 
 them in that way? Answer: Inasmuch as we find that 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 317 
 
 the practice laid down in the minutes, referred to above, 
 has not been a general one hitherto, and as it seems a union 
 of sentiment can not be effected at this meeting, we would 
 feel to leave the matter optional with the churches for the 
 present. 
 
 Art. 44. This question refers to the case of the church 
 receiving a class of persons separated from their former 
 partners in the marriage contract, and who have married 
 again. It was concluded to postpone this question to the- 
 next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 45. We ask this Annual Meeting to reconsider Art.. 
 6, of 1864, and, if not changed, to give a more scriptural 
 reason why brethren should not serve as jurors. Answer:: 
 We advise our brethren not to serve as jurors when they 
 can avoid it. , 
 
 Art. 46. Resolved, that Art. 47, of the minutes of I860,, 
 be altered to read, "The President of the United States," 
 instead of "President Lincoln." 
 
 Art. 47. The following resolution was proposed to the 
 Annual Meeting, by a district meeting, with a request that 
 it be adopted : 
 
 Resolved, by this Annual Meeting, That the churches- 
 throughout the brotherhood enforce plainness of dress, and 
 a plain manner of wearing the hair and beard, upon the- 
 preachers and officers of the churches. By plainness of 
 dress, we mean the common order of giving shape to dress, 
 as practiced by the old brethren and sisters generally, and 
 by plainness of hair we mean the hair parted on the top of 
 the head, or all combed back in a plain manner, or combed 
 straight down all around the head, and not having the hair 
 and beard trimmed according to the custom of the world. 
 
 Considered, that this Annual Meeting unanimously adopt 
 this resolution, according to Rom. xn. 2; I. Peter 1. 14; I. 
 John 11. 15, 16; and that all preachers and officers that fol- 
 low the fashions of the world in the foregoing particulars, 
 violate the order of the gospel by doing so, and render 
 
318 MINUTES OF 
 
 themselves liable to be brought under the counsel of the 
 church. 
 
 Art. 48. Requests for committees: 1. For a committee 
 to visit the "White Oak Church, in Lancaster County, Penn- 
 sylvania. The folio wing, brethren are on this committee: 
 Joseph Hanawalt, Moses Miller, Isaac Meyers, Daniel Kel- 
 ler, and Andrew Miller. 2. For a committee to visit the 
 Swatara Church, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. David 
 Gerlach, Moses Miller, Andrew Miller, and Daniel Keller. 
 3. For a committee to visit the Antietam Church, Franklin 
 County, Pennsylvania. H. D. Davy, John P. Ebersole, 
 John "Wise, John M. Holsinger, and John G. Glock. 
 
 In response to a petition from the brethren in Virginia, 
 for pecuniary help for Bro. Peter Crumpacker, an elder in 
 the church, who lost three thousand dollars in getting his 
 brethren out of prison, and by being robbed by the rebels, 
 this Annual Meeting recommends to all the churches in the 
 north to assist liberally this worthy brother to bear his loss 
 which he, through love to his brethren, sustains. And we 
 appoint Bro. Benjamin Moomaw the receiver, to receive 
 the funds collected. His express office is Bonsacks, Roan- 
 oke County, Virginia, and his post-office is the same. 
 
 Bro. William C. Thurman appearing at the meeting, and 
 giving satisfaction to the brethren, was restored to his office 
 as a minister. The following was submitted to him, and 
 lie accepted.it by signing it : " He shall consent to give and 
 take counsel, and to teach and obey the gospel, omitting to 
 mention, in preaching on the doctrine of feet-washing 
 among the brethren, and everywhere else, that the one who 
 washes should wipe. His course shall be referred to the 
 Annual Council, if any objections whatever are urged 
 against him. He shall go to Virginia, where he was chosen 
 to the ministry, and be installed in his office, according to 
 the order of the church, and be subject to the church. 
 
 "W. C. Thurman." 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 319 
 
 It was considered advisable that the several states make 
 provision to bear the expenses of the committee appointed 
 to go to Tennessee. Each state will provide for the breth- 
 ren who go from it. 
 
 There was a request made by the district meeting of 
 northern Indiana, for the Annual Meeting of 1868. 
 
 The request from the Pipe Creek Church, for the meet- 
 ing in 1867, was renewed; and the next Annual Meeting 
 will be, the Lord willing, with the Pipe Creek Church, 
 Carroll County, Maryland. Brethren going there are rec- 
 ommended to go to Baltimore City, then take the "Western 
 Maryland Railroad for Linwood Station, it being one mile 
 and a half from the place of meeting. Brethren having 
 occasion to write for information, will address Philip 
 Boyle, New Windsor, Maryland, or David Miller, Frizzle- 
 burg, Maryland. - 
 
 Standing committee: Daniel Keller, John Wise, of 
 Pennsylvania ; H. D. Davy, J. P. Ebersole, of Ohio ; Chris- 
 tian Reefer, Henry Koontz, of Maryland; John Wine, 
 Daniel Thomas, of Virginia; Jacob Miller, J. Knisely, of 
 Indiana; C. Long, S. Garber, of Illinois; D. Derrich, of 
 Tennessee. 
 
 . D. Davy, Moderator. 
 
 James Quieter, Clerk. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1867. 
 
 After the devotional exercises on Tuesday morning, the 
 standing committee was appointed, and the fifteenth chap- 
 ter of the Acts of the Apostles was read. 
 
 The followinsr brethren were named as the committee: 
 Joseph Riser, H. D. Davy, and James Quinter, of Ohio ; 
 David Miller, Jacob Metzger, and Jesse Myers, of Indiana; 
 Christian Long and John Fitz, of Illinois; Peter Long, 
 
320 MINUTES OF 
 
 Andrew Miller, and John Holsinger, of Pennsylvania ; 
 Feter Crnmpacker, Daniel Thomas, and John Wine, of 
 Virginia; David Ritteuhouse and John Murray, of Iowa; 
 F. P. Loehr, of Michigan ; Henry Koontz, Isaac Pfoutz 
 and D. P. Sayler, of Maryland. 
 
 The meeting was then organized by appointing H. D. 
 Davy, moderator, J. Quinter, first clerk, D. P. Sayler, sec- 
 ond clerk, and John Weybright, door-keeper. 
 
 After the organization the following delegates reported 
 themselves to the standing committee: 1. Southern district 
 of Ohio, Joseph Riser, Abraham Flory. 2. Northwestern 
 district of Ohio, J. P. Ebersole, Joseph Kautfman. 3. East- 
 ern district of Ohio, II. D. Davy, Jacob Garver. 4. South- 
 ern district of Indiana, Hiel Hamilton. 5. Middle district 
 of Indiana, Jacob Metzger, Jesse Myers. 6. Northern 
 district of Indiana, D. Miller, F. P. Loehr. 7. Southern 
 district of Illinois, I. Gibson, J. Fitz. 8. Northern district 
 of Illinois, C. Long, J. W. Price. 9. Eastern district of 
 Pennsylvania, D. Gerlach, William Hertzler. 10. Middle 
 district of Pennsylvania, D. M. Holsinger, D. Bosserman. 
 11 Western district of Pennsylvania, John Wise, Ephraim 
 Cober. 12. First district of Virginia, Abraham NefT, P. 
 Nininger, B. F. Moomaw. 13. Second district of Virginia, 
 J. Wine, D. Thomas. 14. Third district of Virginia, M. 
 Cosner. 15. District of Iowa, David Ritteuhouse, John 
 Murray. 16. District of western Maryland, David Long, 
 E. Slifer. 17. District of eastern Maryland, Philip Boyle, 
 D. P. Sayler. 18. District of Tennessee, P. Wrightsmau, 
 J. B. Pence. 
 
 Article 1. The district of southern Ohio respectfully 
 requests the Annual Meeting to give some more definite 
 direction than we now have for dealing with a church that 
 is altogether out of the order of the gospel. Answer: We 
 think that the direction for meeting such cases as. alluded 
 to above, is contained in the minutes of last Annual Meet- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 321 
 
 ing, and if that direction is understood and carried out, 
 nothing further is necessary. 
 
 Art. 2. Would it not be well to have the same questions 
 asked throughout the brotherhood, on our annual visits? 
 Answer : "We think it would, and the following form of 
 questions is given : 1. Are you still in the faith of the gos- 
 pel, as you declared in your baptism ? 2. Are you, as far 
 as you know, in peace and union with the church? 3. 
 Will you still labor with the brethren for an increase of 
 holiness, both in yourself and others? 4. Liberty should 
 be given to members to bring an}- thing they may desire to, 
 and that they may think the good of the church requires, 
 before the visitiug brethren. 
 
 Art. 3. What is the order of the brethren when mem- 
 bers have become entirely dependent upon the church ? 
 Have they the privilege of moving from one branch of the 
 church to another without the consent of the church into 
 which they propose to move ? Answer : The church into 
 which such members propose to move should first be coun- 
 seled before they move, and if this is not complied with, 
 the charges should be paid by the church from which they 
 moved. 
 
 Art. 4. A request to change the word enforce, in Art. 47 
 of 1866, to advise. Answer: We consider it not best to 
 change the word in the connection in which it stands, as it 
 applies to the officers of the church, for whom it was de- 
 signed. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it according to the gospel for brethren to act 
 as administrators or executors, in the capacity that the law 
 requires? And if it is, has the church a right to require 
 such to absent themselves from the communion ? The An- 
 nual Meeting is also requested to reconcile Art. 24, of 18G4, 
 with Art. 2, of 1821. Answer: We consider it not advis- 
 able for brethren to act in the capacity of administrators 
 or executors, as it is attended with much difficulty. And, 
 
 as it regards reconciling the two articles above named, there 
 21 
 
322 MINUTES OF 
 
 is not really as much difference as at first appears, since in 
 Art. 2, 1821, permission is granted to the brethren to serve 
 in the capacity alluded to, 'under certain circumstances. 
 
 Art. 6. Is it in accordance with the gospel for a brother 
 to refuse paying his just debts, declaring his wife to be the 
 lawful owner of all his property? Answer: We consider 
 it unjust for a brother to do so, and that such conduct 
 should not be tolerated. 
 
 Art. 7. Is it consistent with the gospel for members of 
 the church to have their profiles or miniatures taken; and, 
 if inconsistent, how shall the church deal with such mem- 
 bers who do so? Answer: As the brethren, in Annual 
 Council in former years, decided it to be wrong, or incon- 
 consistent, for members to have their profiles or miniatures 
 taken, we advise them not to do so. 
 
 Art. 8. When there are two places of meeting in a con- 
 gregation, the elder attending at one place, and two other 
 ministering brethren at the other, is it according to the 
 gospel for a minister in the second degree to authorize a 
 brother in the first degree to baptize, after counseling the 
 members present, in the absence of the elder or bishop? 
 Answer: We unanimously consider it consistent and valid, 
 when authorized by a minister in the second degree and 
 the members present. 
 
 Art. 9. If a member of a certain church is put in avoid- 
 ance, how should members of those churches that can not 
 see that avoidance is necessary hold such that are put in 
 avoidance? Answer: The adjoining churches, and mem- 
 bers of adjoining churches, are to hold them as such, and 
 also avoid all speaking against avoidance to the avoided 
 one. 
 
 Art. 10. Can we not get a more scriptural plan to elect 
 church officers? Answer: We consider it best to defer 
 this query for further consideration. 
 
 Art. 11. Would it not be better for all the churches to 
 have one mode for holding the Lord's Supper? Answer: 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 323 
 
 "We think it would be better, and hope the time will come 
 when there will be a unanimity of practice among the 
 brethren upon this subject, and we recommend all the 
 brethren to pray and labor for this. 
 
 Art. 12. Inasmuch as it seems to have been the practice 
 •of the apostles, in setting a member apart for any special 
 duty in the church, to do so by prayer and laying on of 
 hands, would it not be more in accordance with the gospel 
 to establish visiting brethren and speakers in their offices 
 by prayer and laying on of hands, according to Acts VI. 6, and 
 xiii. 3? Answer: Inasmuch as it does not appear plainly 
 to all the brethren that it was always the practice of the 
 apostles to lay hands on those appointed to any special 
 duty, we therefore think it best to make no change at pres- 
 ent in the order of installing speakers and deacons in their 
 offices. 
 
 Art. 13. Inasmuch as the church of the brethren has 
 always endeavored to maintain the principle of temperance, 
 will the brethren composing this Annual Meeting admit 
 that members may join a temperance society, in the pres- 
 ent form such societies take, outside of the church? An- 
 swer: As our brotherhood has, again and again, taken de- 
 cided ground against intoxicating drinks as a beverage, 
 and recommended to the brethren to abstain from their 
 use as such, we see no necessity of joining ourselves to any 
 other organization ; and, therefore, we can not allow breth- 
 ren the privilege of doing so, but renew our solemn pro- 
 testation against the use of intoxicating drinks as a bever- 
 age, and consider it the duty of every member of the 
 church to use his influence asrainst them. 
 
 Art. 14. Is it expedient for brethren to put a reward on 
 their property, when stolen, and try to recover the same ? 
 Answer: We consider the Scripture to be satisfactory in 
 the above case, without human expediency. Luke vi. 30. 
 
 Art. 15. "W ould not the following be a better way for 
 organizing the Annual Meeting than that which is now 
 
824 MINUTES OF 
 
 practiced? Let each district council select one ordained 
 elder as a member of the standing committee of the An- 
 nual Meeting, and should any vacancy or vacancies occur, 
 the elders of the church holding the Annual Meeting shall 
 supply the same from among the ordained elders present at 
 the meeting. Answer: "We think it best to lay this ques- 
 tion over until next year, with the understanding that the 
 brethren where the next Annual Meeting will be held be 
 instructed to select the standing committee, as much as- 
 practicable, according to the foregoing plan. 
 
 Art. 16. Does the fornication committed, as in Matt. xix. 
 9, place the parties in such a position that they can never 
 be reconciled to each other and live together again? An- 
 swer : The guilty party giving evidence of true repentance, 
 they may be reconciled. (See I. Cor. vn. 11 ; II. Cor. n. 6, 7.) 
 
 Art. 17. "We desire this Annual Meeting to consider 
 Art. 18, of the minutes of 1856, and give us the scriptural 
 rule to govern such cases. Answer: If the cause of sepa- 
 ration be malice and ill-will, they can not be retained in 
 the church, according to Heb. xn. 14, 15. 
 
 Art. 18. Do the Scriptures teach that it is committing 
 adultery to marry a person who is divorced, while the first 
 partner is living? Answer: They do. (See Luke xvi. 18.) 
 
 Art. 19. In the minutes of the Annual Meeting of 1866, 
 page 2, it is said that "any member falling under the coun- 
 sel of the church, and being dissatisfied with the decision, 
 may appeal to the Annual Meeting, by presenting a peti- 
 tion, signed by a number of the members of the church." 
 "Would it not be better to reconsider this clause or para- 
 graph, and put it back to the decision of the Annual 
 Meeting of 1849, Art. 26? Answer: "We think it not ad- 
 visable to repeal the paragraph, but that we add what was 
 intended, namely, this: The Annual Meeting shall hear 
 their petition, through the standing committee, and if they 
 deem their claim just, they shall grant them a committee, 
 who shall examine the case, and their decision shall be 
 final. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF TlIE BRETHREN. 325 
 
 Art. 20. If a brother wrongs a neighbor, who is not a 
 member of the church, by not fulfilling his promise, so that 
 his neighbor surfers damage ; and the church, taking the 
 matter into consideration, expels the brother for doing this 
 and other crimes. Xow, we wish to know whether the 
 church has the right to receive that brother into the church 
 again before he has made restitution. If it is wrong for a 
 church to do so, what is to be done? What is to be done 
 with a church that has done so? Answer: The proceed- 
 ings are wrong; and unless the church requires the brother 
 to make restitution, the church shall make restitution. 
 
 Art. 21. Who are the proper persons to perform the duty 
 of anointing the sick? James v. 14, 15. Answer: We 
 think the minutes of former Annual Meetings srive a sat- 
 isfactory answer to this query. 
 
 Art. 22. Has Bro. E. Heyser a right, being a minister- 
 ing brother, to receive pay from the government for teach- 
 ing school in the South, under the employment and protec- 
 tion of the Freedmen's Bureau? Answer: Inasmuch as 
 Bro. Heyser is employed by the government in teaching 
 school, and not in preaching the gospel, we can see no im- 
 propriety in the government paying him for teaching. 
 
 Art. 23. Do not the Scriptures enjoin fasting, in connec- 
 tion with prayer, as a frequent service? and will not this 
 meeting recommend it, as a means of promoting a higher 
 degree of perfection and holiness? Answer. We think 
 that according to the Scripture fasting, in connection with 
 prayer, is attended with great advantages to those who ob- 
 serve it, and we earnestly exhort the brethren not to neg- 
 lect this duty and privilege, as a private institution (Acts 
 x. 30); and that in important cases it should be enjoined, 
 upon the members as a means of sanctification and quali- 
 fication for important duties. Acts xin. 1-3. 
 
 Art. 24. What is the established usage of the church in 
 the use of the civil law in collecting debts, etc.? Is it alto- 
 gether forbidden ? If not, what is the extent of the privi- 
 
326 MINUTES OF 
 
 lege ? If it is, can it be allowed for members, and especially 
 ministers, to advise persons to sue, and publish a notice to 
 their creditors that if their bonds are not paid when due 
 they will be coerced by law ? Answer: We consider it is 
 contrary to the gospel, as understood by the brethren, to 
 use the civil law in collecting debts, or in any other case 
 where it would involve strife or litigation. Friendly suits 
 are admitted, when the case is decided to be such by the 
 council of the church. But to advise others to sue, or to 
 ptublish that we will sue, is inconsistent with our principles, 
 and would subject a brother to the judgment of the church, 
 according to the gospel. (See Matt. v. 40 ; Luke vi. 29.) 
 
 Art. 25. Can brethren be allowed to officiate in recon- 
 structing the government, in holding elections, and partic- 
 ipating in conventions? Answer: We consider it contrary 
 to the gospel, as understood by the brethren, to act officially 
 in any government matter whatever. Luke xvi. 13. 
 
 Art. 26. What is to be done with the housekeeper in an 
 arm of the church, w 7 ho neglects to examine the applicant 
 for baptism, as laid down in the minutes of 1848, and re- 
 published in the minutes of 1858? Answer: We think 
 the elders of the adjoining churches should visit the house- 
 keeper, and admonish him to proceed according to the or- 
 der of the brethren, as laid down in the minutes. 
 
 Art. 27. Inasmuch as there are some members w T ho are 
 dissatisfied with the present manner of washing feet, and 
 think that the one that washes should also wipe, can not 
 the Annual Meeting grant a change, and bear with those 
 that wish to practice as they understand it ? Answer: We 
 consider it not advisable to make any change in the prac- 
 tice of feet-washing as heretofore practiced by the breth- 
 ren. 
 
 Art. 28. Would it not be more consistent with all other 
 rules and orders of the brethren to elect elders by votes, 
 in all cases? Answer: We consider it best to make no 
 change in the general manner of appointing elders, but we 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 327 
 
 think cases may occur when the church, acting in concert 
 with the elders who visit a church to ordain an elder, may 
 take the voice of the church in which the ordination is to 
 take place, to know which of the ministering brethren in 
 the church desires to be ordained. 
 
 Art. 29. Is it consistent with the gospel to apply the 
 term reverend to ministers of other denominations, or to 
 ourownbrethren, either in speaking or writing? Answer: 
 We consider it not right to do so, siuce it is applied in the 
 Bible alone to God. 
 
 Art. 30. Should not our church adopt some general plan 
 for the spread of the gospel, as the duty is enjoined upon 
 her by the Savior himself? And does not an efficient plan 
 imply some pecuniary provision? Answer: This Annual 
 Meeting hails the desire to have the gospel spread, and 
 which is growing among the brethren as a favorable indi- 
 cation, and it would encourage this and recommend to the 
 several states to take such measures as a prayerful consid- 
 eration of the subject would suggest, to engage in this good 
 work ; and it would also recommend that such plans be 
 adopted as would suggest themselves by such considera- 
 tion, since no one plan can now be united upon, hoping 
 that, as the work progresses, and as further light is elicited 
 by reflection, observation, and experience, a greater and 
 more efficient system may be adopted. In the meantime, 
 let whatever is done be done according to the spirit and 
 word of the gospel, as work done in any other way will not 
 be approved by the Lord. 
 
 Art. 31. Should not the Annual Meeting adopt some 
 definite rule with regard to the action of special commit- 
 tees asked for by any branch of the church, to settle mat- 
 ters that could not be settled otherwise ? Answer : Whereas, 
 it is the privilege of any branch of the church, or member, 
 to have a committee when asked for, such committee should 
 have full power to dispose of any case submitted to it, pro- 
 vided the usual methods have been resorted to previously; 
 
328 MINUTES OF 
 
 and when settled by such committee, the decision shall be 
 final. Acts xv. 22. (The five following articles were de- 
 ferred to the next Annual Meeting, and will be acted upon 
 as the first business of said meeting. The first four are an- 
 swered by the district-meeting from which they came, and 
 have only the authority of the district-meeting, and the an- 
 swers are subject to any change the Annual Meeting may 
 make, before they have the authority of the Annual Meet- 
 ing. To the fifth or last question no answer was given by 
 the district-meeting from which it came. The Annual 
 Meeting directed these articles to be put on the minutes.) 
 
 Art. 32. Do the words of the Savior," Except for forni- 
 cation," as they stand connected with his other language, 
 in the ninth verse of the nineteenth chapter of Matthew, 
 annul the marriage covenant or contract, or do they only 
 suspend it until fruits worthy of repentance are manifested 
 on the part of the transgressor — to the satisfaction of the 
 church. Considered by this meeting that the words in 
 question do annul the marriage contract. Referred. 
 
 Art. 33. Art. 40, on the minutes of the Yearly Meeting 
 for 1865, being in relation to raising money by taxation — 
 considered by this district-meeting that the article should 
 be reconsidered by the Yearly Meeting, inasmuch as this 
 district-meeting concluded that it is not contrary to the 
 gospel to raise funds by taxation, provided all the members 
 in the same church are agreed to do so ; but a noncompli- 
 ance should not be a test of fellowship. Eeferred. 
 
 Art. 34. Art. 8, as it stands on the minutes of the Yearly 
 Meeting for 1866, relates to a brother who had expressed a 
 desire to be re-baptized. Considered by this district-meet- 
 ing that the case be referred to the church in which it ex- 
 ists, and the brethren there be authorized by the Yearly 
 Meeting to proceed as the nature of the case may require. 
 Referred. 
 
 Art. 35. Is it considered expedient for brethren to join 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 329 
 
 debating schools or lyceums ? Considered by this meeting 
 that it is not expedient for brethren to do so. Referred. 
 
 Art. 36. A man, having a wife, and she leaves him and 
 takes up with several other men, one of whom is compelled 
 by law to marry her ; and some time after this the first- 
 mentioned man marries a single woman, and this woman 
 made application to be received into the church, and the 
 circumstances, as given above, not being known by the 
 church, she was baptized ; and then her husband also made 
 application to be received. We desire the judgment of the 
 Annual Meeting, whether this woman can be retained in 
 the church, and whether her husband can be received? 
 
 The following committees were appointed by the meet- 
 ing by request : 1. A committee to visit the Paint Creek 
 and "White Oak churches in southern Ohio. The follow- 
 ing brethren were appointed : II. D. Davy, J. P. Ebersole, 
 John Ilershey, John Frantz, Peter Xead, and James Quin- 
 ter. 2. For Cherry Grove, Carroll County, Illinois, Sam- 
 uel Gerber, Michael Sisler,'and Martin Myers. 3. For the 
 Brush Creek Church, Maryland, David Long, David Bos- 
 serman, and Henry Koontz. 4. For the Ridge Church, 
 Cumberland Count}', Pennsylvania, Moses Miller, D. Bos- 
 serman, J. G. Glock, Joseph Hanawalt, and Andrew Mil- 
 ler. 5. For Xew Hope Church, Augusta County, Virginia, 
 Daniel Thomas, Jacob Miller, and Isaac Long. 6. For Ot- 
 ter Creek Church, Macoupin County, Illinois, J. R. Gish, 
 John Fitz, Jacob Negley. 
 
 A request from the brethren in Elkhart County, Indiana, 
 for the Annual Meeting in 1868, was made and granted. 
 Accordingly, the Lord willing, the next Annual Meeting 
 will be with the brethren above named. 
 
 After a season of devotional exercises the meeting ad- 
 journed. 
 
 J. QUINTER. 1 ,-,, , 
 D.P.SAYLER,/ ClerkS - 
 
 n. D. Davy, Moderator. 
 
330 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1868. 
 
 On Tuesday morning, the 2d of June, an unusually large 
 number of brethren being present, after the devotional ex- 
 ercises, the following brethren were announced as forming 
 the standing committee : John P. Ebersole, Daniel Miller, 
 Henry D. Davy, James Quinter, B. F. Moomaw, Daniel 
 Thomas, Jacob Wine, D. P. Sayler, Isaac Pfoutz, David 
 Long, Conrod J. Lint, Daniel M . Holsinger, Joseph Rohrer, 
 David Bechtelheimer, Jacob Miller, Daniel Bowman, F. 
 P. Loehr, Christian Long, John Metzger, Samuel Lehman, 
 John Wise, Jacob Brower, Abraham lieplogle, and Henry 
 Brubaker. Bro. H. Kurtz and Peter Nead were invited 
 to be present with the standing committee. The meeting 
 was then regularly organized by appointing H. D. Davy, 
 moderator, James Quinter, first clerk, D. P. Sayler, second 
 clerk, and Jacob Miller, door-keeper. It was then ascer- 
 tained that the following state districts were represented : 
 Virginia, district No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3; Maryland, the 
 eastern and the western district ; Pennsylvania, the eastern, 
 the middle, and the western district ; Ohio, the northwest- 
 ern, the southern, and the eastern ; Indiana, the southern, 
 the middle, and the northern district; Michigan; Illinois, 
 the northern and the southern district ; Iowa, Tennessee, 
 Wisconsin, and Kansas. The delegates then, as they were 
 called, presented their papers, and the following articles 
 were found to constitute the business before the meeting. 
 These were prayerfully considered and answered as the 
 Scripture, reason, and experience seemed to require. (The 
 first five articles acted upon were referred from the last 
 meeting to the present.) 
 
 Article 1. Do the words of the Savior, "Except for for- 
 nication," as they stand connected with his other language, 
 in the ninth verse of the nineteenth chapter of Matthew, 
 annul the mairiage covenant or contract, or do they only 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 331 
 
 suspend it until fruits worthy of repentance are manifested 
 on the part of the transgressor — to the satisfaction of the 
 church? Considered, by this meeting that the words in 
 question do annul the marriage contract. Answer: We 
 postpone this question indefinitely, but advise the churches 
 to proceed cautiously when they have cases of this charac- 
 ter to act upon. 
 
 Art. 2. The second query asked for a reconsideration of 
 Art. 40, of 1865, being in relation to raising money by tax- 
 ation. Answer : Though it may not be contrary to the 
 gospel to raise funds by taxation, yet we think it is not ex- 
 pedient to do so. But we do believe that brethren should, 
 in all their contributions to promote benevolent or chari- 
 table causes in the church of Christ, contribute, as a general 
 gospel rale, according to what God has blessed them with. 
 
 Art. 3. This query refers to Art. 8, of 1866, and relates 
 to a brother who wished to be re-baptized. Answer: In- 
 asmuch as we are informed that the case to which this ar- 
 ticle refers was disposed of in the church in which it oc- 
 curred, we think it best to give it no further consideration 
 at present. 
 
 Art. 4. Is it considered expedient for brethren to join 
 debating schools or lyceums? Answer: We think it not 
 expedient for brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 5. A man, having a wife, and she leaves him and 
 takes up with several other men, one of whom is compelled 
 by law to marry her ; and some time after this the first- 
 mentioned man marries a single woman, and this woman 
 made application to be received into the church, and the 
 circumstances, as given above, not being known by the 
 church, she was baptized ; and then her husband also made 
 application to be received. We desire the judgment of the 
 Annual Meeting, whether this woman can be retained in 
 the church, and whether her husband can be received. 
 Answer: We refer this question back to the church in 
 which it originated. 
 
332 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 6. Would it not be better, and more in accordance 
 with the sentiments of a majority of the brethren, to change 
 our present manner of appointing the standing committee 
 of our Annual Meeting, so that each district-meeting elect 
 some one of the bishops within the district to constitute one 
 of said committee ? And would it not also be better to give 
 the committee liberty, after it has elected its moderator, to 
 elect its clerks and other officers from the body of the mem- 
 bers present, rather than confine it in its choice to its own 
 members ? Answer : We think it would be better so to do. 
 
 Art. 7. In choosing a brother to the ministry, would it 
 not be nearer to the spirit of the gospel to cast lots for one 
 among those having received votes, than the way we have 
 been proceeding heretofore? Answer: We judge it best 
 to make no change at present in electing our church offi- 
 cers. 
 
 Art. 8. Is it in accordance with the gospel to restrict a 
 brother from preaching that which a branch of the body 
 is permitted to preach and practice, and which is repre- 
 sented at the Annual Meeting from year to year, and is ac- 
 knowledged as being in full fellowship /with the church? 
 Answer: In restricting a brother in his liberty of preach- 
 ing the "gospel, we must not be governed by what any 
 branch of the church may preach or practice, but we must 
 be governed by what a brother preaches, and by the man- 
 ner in which he preaches. The apostolic precept, "Let all 
 things be done unto edification," is a rule to be observed 
 in preaching as in every thing else. 
 
 Art. 9. When ministers of other denominations join the 
 brethren, can they be received as ministers in any other 
 way but in the regular order of the church ? Answer : We 
 deem it not prudent to receive them in any other way. 
 
 Art. 10. Inasmuch as the questions whether the same 
 member that washes feet should not also wipe, came up 
 again at our district-meeting, we request the Annual Meet- 
 ing, and the brotherhood throughout, to take this subject 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. o3l» 
 
 into serious consideration. Answer: We think it well to 
 comply with the foregoing request, and also to appoint a 
 committee to visit those churches in which to practice the 
 ordinance of feet-washing differently to the general order 
 of the brotherhood. 
 
 Art. 11. Inasmuch as in some of the churches, or dis- 
 tricts, the visiting brethren (deacons) are permitted to rise 
 up in meeting to exhort, and even to preach, while in other 
 churches, or districts, they are taught not to rise, but to 
 bear testimony to the truth and to exhort while sitting, and 
 are not allowed to rise for that purpose. As the Yearly 
 Meeting of 1835 has defined the duties in Art. 4, it is agreed 
 to refer this subject to the Annual Council for reconsider- 
 ation. Answer : We think it best to make no change from 
 the present order. 
 
 Art. 12. What is to be done with a person who makes 
 application to come into the church, confessing that he has 
 truly repented, received faith in Christ, and upon that faith 
 has been baptized by a trine immersion for the remission 
 of his sins by another denomination ? Answer : We think it 
 best to make no change in reference to the subject alluded to 
 in the article, from the present order of the brethren. (See 
 Minutes of 1848, Art. 5.) 
 
 Art. 13. Would it not promote the profit and edification 
 of the annual visit to the members of the churches to have 
 a season of devotion, consisting of prayer and such other 
 exercises as those who make the visit may feel at liberty to 
 perform, in each family, when the circumstances will ad- 
 mit of it ? Answer : We think it would promote the edi- 
 fication of the members of the church to do so, and that 
 when convenient it ought to be done. 
 
 Art. 14. As the Annual Meeting has given the liberty 
 to hold Sabbath-schools, it is particularly requested that 
 this Annual Meeting give a full and definite answer to the 
 last question in Art. 1, minutes of 1862, that there may be 
 a uniformity of practice among the brethren who hold, or- 
 
334 MINUTES OF 
 
 who wish to hold, Sabbath-schools. Answer: We advise 
 that, where the nature of the ease will admit of it, for 
 brethren to hold Sabbath-schools, and such schools should 
 be opened by singing and prayer, and closed by singing or 
 by prayer, as it may be thought proper, and they should be 
 superintended by brethren. And we advise the brethren 
 to be very careful in introducing books, to introduce none 
 that inculcate doctrines contrary to the gospel. And we 
 further advise that brethren avoid taking part in or encour- 
 aging the Sabbath-school celebrations, common in the 
 world. 
 
 Art. 15. Can there not be a more scriptural answer on 
 the article of going on stands to preach, than that passed 
 in our Annual Meeting in 1866, Art. 23-? Answer: We 
 can give no better answer to it than that already given in 
 the minutes of 1866, Art. 23. 
 
 Art. 16. How is it considered for brethren to open their 
 doors, or give consent that fallen teachers should preach 
 in their houses, or to attend their meetings, etc. ? Answer : 
 We consider it wrong to open our houses for such to preach 
 in, to attend their meetings, or to do any thing whatever 
 to encourage them to preach. 
 
 Art. 17. Inasmuch as the Annual Meeting has decided 
 that brethren may engage in merchandizing,with no other re- 
 striction than that they are not to sell intoxicating liquors 
 should any other restrictions be added, and if so, what are 
 they ? Answer : We think it best to refer this question 
 back to the district-meeting from which it came. 
 
 Art. 18. Whereas, there is a difficulty in introducing 
 the new hymn-book among the brethren where the Ger- 
 man language is yet used, as there are none that contain 
 both English and German hymns, would it not therefore 
 be advisable to revise the German hymn-book, and make 
 a small collection of the choicest German hymns, and com- 
 bine them with the English book, and thus have jsome 
 books containing both English and German hymns, to 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 335 
 
 meet the wants of our German members and avoid the 
 necessity of having more than one book in the church? 
 Answer: We consider it advisable to do so, and appoint 
 the following brethren as a committee to select a number 
 of German hymns, not exceeding two hundred, to be added 
 to as many of the English books as it is necessary to sup- 
 ply the wants of the German brethren : Paul Wetzel, Henry 
 Kurtz, F. P. Loehr, and D. M. Ilolsinger. 
 
 Art. 19. As there are some members who do not heed to 
 the admonition given by the Annual Meeting of 1866, Art. 
 27, will this meeting come to some plan that all the churches 
 will carry out said admonition ? Answer: Considered the 
 duty of each church to heed the instructions of the Annual 
 Meeting, in any one or all of the different cases therein 
 named. 
 
 Art. 20. Will this meetiug consider the query of the 
 Annual Meeting of 1866, Art. 47, allowing brethren three 
 certain modes of wearing their hair? And, if approved of, 
 we wish this meeting to give gospel for the same. An- 
 swer : Considered, that in absence of direct Scripture, it is 
 well for the younger to be subject to the older. 
 
 Art. 21. Our'Annual Meeting has, on different occasions, 
 decided in favor of adopting some plan for a more exten- 
 sive spread of the gospel ; we, therefore, request this meet- 
 ing to adopt the plan of the Annual Meeting of 1858, Art. 
 58, or some other one. Answer: This meeting adopts the 
 report presented to the Annual Meeting of 1860. The fol- 
 lowing is the report referred to : " The committee appointed 
 at the Annual Meeting in 1859, Art. 28, to propose some 
 plan to the present meeting, by which the brotherhood in 
 general may take some part in the good work of the Lord, 
 in preaching the gospel more generally, reports as- follows: 
 Whereas, the preaching of the gospel to every creature is 
 a command of Christ, since he said to his disciples, ' Go ye 
 into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature ' 
 (Mark xvi. 15), and, therefore, a duty enjoined upoh all his 
 
336 MINUTES OF 
 
 disciples, hence it needs no argument in its defense. The 
 only point to be considered, is: How shall it be done? 
 Now, St. Paul says: 'Who goeth a warfare anytime at his 
 own charges?' (I. Cor. ix. 7); and as the Lord Jesus gave 
 every man his work, as well as his servants authority (Mark 
 xiii. 34) : 'For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far 
 journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his serv- 
 ants, and to every man his work,' it is, therefore, evident 
 that he did not mean that his ministering servants should 
 be burdened with the duty of preaching his word, and also 
 bearing the expenses incurred in traveling from place to 
 place, while all the members of the body remain idle. 
 The committee understands the Lord Jesus to mean that 
 the church, his body on earth (I. Cor. xn. 27), shall, unitedly,, 
 preach his gospel in all the world, by the ministry, through 
 the Holy Ghost; and, therefore, the church should pray 
 the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers; for so Jesus 
 commanded his disciples, saying: 'The harvest truly is 
 plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye, therefore, the 
 Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into 
 his harvest.' Matt. ix. 37, 38. And it appears from the 
 following account, in Acts xiii. 2, 3, that this was the prac- 
 tice of the apostolic church : 'As they ministered to the 
 Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barna- 
 bas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. 
 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands 
 on them, they sent them away.' And, in view of the above 
 considerations, the committee offers the following advice: 
 That the churches of the brotherhood form themselves into 
 districts, the brethren in those, districts to meet, as often as 
 they may judge it necessary, to transact their business; 
 that each of said districts have its'treasury, and each one of 
 the churches which form said districts have its treasury, the 
 former to be supplied out of the latter, and the latter to be 
 supplied by weekly contributions, as directed by the Apos- 
 tle Paul (I. Cor. xvi. 2), 'Upon the first day of the week,. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN, 337 
 
 let every one of you lay by him in store, as God has pros- 
 pered him, that there be no gathering when I come,' a plan 
 for raising pecuniary funds, of divine appointment, and is 
 one which commends itself to our acceptance, both from its 
 authority and excellency. And in order that the funds col- 
 lected may be the most judiciously, satisfactorily, and 
 economically applied, we advise that each sub- district or 
 church appoint at least one delegate to attend the general 
 district-meetings, and that these meetings so dispose of the 
 funds collected as they shall judge most conducive to the 
 glory of God and the salvation of souls. And in order to 
 preserve a proper harmony between all the congregations 
 of the brotherhood, we further advise that each general 
 district-meeting send a delegate to the Annual Meeting, 
 and, by the delegate, a report of its proceedings, that all 
 such proceedings may be in harmony with the regulations, 
 as made by the brethren assembled in Annual Council, and 
 subject to the inspection and control of that body. And 
 in case any demands of a general character for evangelists 
 are made, sufficiently so to require the action of the An- 
 nual Meeting, then, in that case, the funds needed to defray 
 the expenses of said evangelists shall be drawn from the 
 treasuries of the several districts. And, as the conviction 
 of mind seems to be general among the brethren, that 
 greater exertion should be made by the brotherhood to 
 have the gospel preached in every place, the committee 
 would remind the ministry that the foregoing plan is by no 
 means designed to supersede the labors of our ministers in 
 their individual capacities. But we recommend to all our 
 preachers to labor as they have been accustomed to do, 
 without money and without price, as far as their circum- 
 stances will permit them to do so, showing, as they have 
 hitherto done in a remarkable degree, the Christian grace 
 of self-denial — a grace which shone brightly in the life of 
 our divine Master, and which occupies a prominent place 
 
 in his teaching. We further recommend to all our preach- 
 22 
 
338 MINUTES OF 
 
 ers to submit the above plan to their congregations, hoping 
 that it will meet with their acceptance. All of which is 
 respectfully submitted by the committee: D. P. Sayler, 
 John Kline, John Metzger, James Quinter." 
 
 Art. 22. Is it in accordance with the order of the breth- 
 ren for the standing committee of the Annual Meeting to 
 appoint elders to preside over a district, without the knowl- 
 edge or consent of said district? Answer: We think the 
 standing committee has a right, under certain circum- 
 stances, to do so. 
 
 Art. 23. Is it consistent with the gospel, and the order 
 of the brethren, for our ministers to teach, at our love- 
 feasts, that members are justifiable in absenting themselves 
 from the communion, after they have had their feet washed 
 and partaken of the Lord's Supper? If this is not right, 
 what should be done with members who will do so without 
 giving any reason ? Answer: It is wrong to do as inti- 
 mated above, and more wrong still to teach it, and it should 
 be neither taught nor done. 
 
 Art. 24. Would it not be more in accordance with the 
 example of Christ and his disciples, when the admin- 
 istrator is blessing the bread and wine in the communion, 
 for all the members to keep their seats? Answer: Inas- 
 much as it is not said that Christ did not rise to his feet, 
 and as it has been the order of the brethren to rise when 
 we give thanks, we think it best to make no change. 
 
 Art. 25. Shall district-meetings be held openly before the 
 world, or before the church only? Answer: We think it 
 best to hold our district-meetings as private meetings, but 
 not so much so as to exclude any persons friendly to the 
 brethren. 
 
 Art. 26. Can brethren, who do not possess the qualifica- 
 tions for deacons, required by the Apostle Paul to Timothy 
 (I. Tim. iil), hold that oflice? Answer: We think they 
 can not. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 339 
 
 The following committees were appointed by the stand- 
 ing committee: 1. For Marshall County, Indiana, Yellow 
 River Church, Jacob Miller, of Portage, Jacob Berkey, 
 and David Bechtelheimer. 2. For Tippecanoe Church, 
 Indiana, Abraham Airbaugh, David Miller, Jacob Miller, 
 Jacob Flory, Jacob Berkey, and F. P. Loehr. 3. The same 
 committee will go to Eel River congregation, Indiana. 
 4. For Cedar Creek congregation, DeKalb County, Indiana, 
 Daniel Brower, Allen County, Ohio, Jacob Wagner, Joseph 
 McCarty, and John Brown. 5. For Macoupin County, 
 Illinois, Joh n Metzger, Christian Long, Henry Davy, Joseph 
 Hendricks, and Samuel Lehman. 6. For Marshall County, 
 Iowa, John Wise, Samuel Gerber, George Baker, and Elias 
 K. Beeghly. 7. For Philadelphia and Germantown, D. P. 
 Sayler, H. D. Davy, James Quinter, Daniel Thomas, and 
 Moses Miller. 8. For Salamony Church, Indiana, H. D. 
 Davy, Daniel Brower, John P. Ebersole, John Metzger, 
 and Jacob Berkey. 9. A committee to Somerset County, 
 Pennsylvania, Tobias Blouch, Abraham Stutzman, and D. 
 M. Holsinger. 10. A committee to the Rock Pun and 
 Elkhart churches, Indiana, H. D. Davy, Daniel Miller, J. 
 P. Ebersole, John Metzger, and Michael Shotz. 11. To 
 the Xewton 'Church, Miami County, Ohio, Nathan Hey- 
 wood, George Holler, Joseph Eesor, and Isaac Miller. 12. 
 To Pine Creek -Church, Indiana, Jacob Berkey, Christ. 
 AVenger, Ab. Witmer, and Jacob Miller. 13. To Wad- 
 dam's Grove, Illinois, Michael Sisler, Martin Meyers, and 
 David E. Price. 
 
 There were two requests for the Annual Meeting, one 
 from Virginia, for the meeting in 1869, and one from Iowa, 
 in 1870. The request from Virginia, for the meeting in 
 1869, was granted, and the next Annual Meeting, the Lord 
 willing, will be held in Virginia. The corresponding breth- 
 ren in the congregation in which it will be held, and other 
 
340 MINUTES OF 
 
 desirable information, will be given in due time through 
 our periodicals. 
 
 After exhortation, singing, and prayer, the meeting ad- 
 journed. 
 
 James Quinter, \ rlprl __ 
 D. P. Sayler, j ^ lerk& - 
 
 H. D. Davy, Moderator. 
 
 AXXCiAL MEETING OF 1869. 
 
 A considerable number of brethren assembled in the 
 neighborhood in which the general council-meeting was to 
 be held some days before the time for meeting. The breth- 
 ren around in various places availed themselves of the op- 
 portunity afforded them for preaching, and quite a number 
 of meetings were held, to the edification of the brethren, 
 and, also, it is hoped, to the good of others. 
 
 On Tuesday morning the meeting was organized, and 
 opened with devotional exercises, after which it proceeded 
 to business. 
 
 The following subjects were presented to the meeting, 
 and acted upon in the fear of the Lord, with the con- 
 clusions herein stated : 
 
 Article 1. Whereas, there have been certain petitions 
 from southern Ohio presented to this Annual Meeting, and 
 which have been extensively circulated through the broth- 
 erhood, wherein the petitioners have set forth certain griev- 
 ances, and desire some change or modification in holding 
 the Annual Meeting, and, also, in certain practices among 
 the brethren ; and, whereas, this Annual Meeting desires to 
 maintain all the practices and ordinances of Christianity 
 in their simplicity and purity, and to promote the "unity 
 of the spirit in the bonds of peace;" therefore, though it 
 can not grant the changes and objects desired by the peti- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 341 
 
 tioners to the full extent petitioned for, it will make the 
 following changes in the manner of holding the Annual 
 Meeting, and endeavor to guard, with increased vigilance, 
 against the abuse of the practices referred to in the supple- 
 ment, by advising and urging the brethren to observe the 
 cautions and directions in reference to said practices, as 
 hereinafter stated : 1. In relation to the appointing of the 
 standing committee, we advise that the district-meetings 
 select old, experienced, and established brethren; and that 
 in signing the minutes we advise that a suitable number of 
 •elders sign them, but not as members of the standing com- 
 mittee, and the signers need not be confined to the com- 
 mittee. "We also advise that the minutes be read to all at 
 the close of the meeting, provided there is time, and it be 
 found practicable to do so, and that the term "moderator," 
 as applied to the brother who keeps order, be dropped. 
 2. In relation to holding protracted meetings for worship, 
 we feel much impressed with the propriety of conducting 
 said meetings in strict accordance with the gospel ; that all 
 disorder and improper excitement should be avoided ; that 
 care should be taken that the understanding be enlightened, 
 as well as the passions awakened ; that on all occasions, 
 when candidates for church membership are visited and 
 examined, they be dealt with as the gospel seems to re- 
 quire, and as the order of the brethren has sanctioned; 
 that 'in noticing the success of preaching, we advise that 
 the number of additions to the churches be omitted. 3. 
 In relation to Sabbath-schools, we feel the great necessity 
 of guarding against the prevailing manner in which these 
 schools are conducted; of cautioning the brethren who 
 take any part in them against having festivals, or any thing 
 of the kind that does not comport with the spirit of Chris- 
 tianity, which such schools are designed to promote; that 
 care be taken lest pride be taught rather than humility, 
 and that nothing be encouraged thereby that will conflict 
 with the established order and character of the brethren * 
 
342 MINUTES OF 
 
 and that care should be taken that no offense be given to 
 the brethren in these things. 4. In reference to the con- 
 troversial articles published in our religious papers, we. 
 counsel and advise our brethren Quinter & Kurtz, and H. 
 R. Holsinger, to publish nothing in their periodicals that 
 disputes the practice of the precepts and ordinances of the 
 gospel, as handed down to us from Christ and the apostles, 
 through and by the forefathers of the church; and that 
 Brethren Xead, Kinsey, and all the brethren who write, be 
 cautioned upon this head, and are hereby given to under- 
 stand that a disregard to this counsel will subject a brother 
 to the counsel of the church. 5. In reference to prayer- 
 meetings, social meetings, and Bible classes, we would say, 
 that we advise the brethren to be very careful in conduct- 
 ing such meetings, when they have been introduced, and 
 to conduct them not after the prevailing custom of the re- 
 ligious world, but in the order that the brethren conduct 
 their meetings for worship; that brethren be cautioned 
 against introducing such meetings where their introduc- 
 tion would cause confusion or trouble in the churches, and 
 that elders always be consulted in introducing such 
 meetings. 
 
 Art. 2. The committee appointed by the last Annual 
 Meeting to visit the Philadelphia and Germantown churches, 
 reported, and the following is the part of the report judged 
 necessary to be entered upon the minutes, it being the re- 
 sult of the conference between the committee and said 
 churches : '* Whereas, the brethren of the Philadelphia and 
 Germantown churches seem to feel assured that the prac- 
 tice of feet-washing in said churches has always been in the 
 single mode, we find it necessary to bear with one another, 
 and will do so, provided you restore the old order of the 
 brethren, in having a full supper at communion meeting, 
 the salutation of the kiss at the same time, and the prac- 
 tice of the two brethren praying at the commencement and 
 close of our general meetings for worship, where there are 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF TIIE BRETHREN 343 
 
 two brethren present, concluding each prayer with the 
 Lord's Prayer. If you will agree to this, we will report to 
 the Annual Meeting accordingly. This was the last propo- 
 sition submitted by the committee to said churches, and 
 was accepted, with the qualification, as far as practicable. 
 We are happy to believe its acceptance will be a step to- 
 ward a more complete union between the churches we met 
 in conference and the general brotherhood. The foregoing 
 report is respectfully submitted to the Annual Meeting, 
 with the hope that it will take such action upon the sub- 
 ject as will further the blessed cause of truth and right- 
 eousness. Signed by the committee: D. P. Sayler, H. D. 
 Davy, J. Quinter, B. F. Moomaw, M. Miller."' This An- 
 nual Meeting accepts, for the present, the foregoing report, 
 with the clause, "as far as practicable," stricken out. 
 
 Report of the brethren appointed by the Annual Meet- 
 ing to visit the brethren in Adams and Hancock counties, 
 Illinois: "Upon conferring with them, aud investigating 
 the subject of difference in the practice of feet-washing, we 
 found that in presenting their papers to the Annual Meet- 
 ing in 1859, they reserved the right to themselves of prac- 
 ticing feet-washing as they did before, and thereby the 
 Annual Meeting got a wrong impression ; aud, furthermore, 
 what confirmed that impression was this: they agreed in 
 the paper above alluded to, to give and take counsel, and 
 did not state to the Annual Meeting their reservation in 
 the practice of feet-washing. We found, in our conference 
 with them, that they are still willing to abide by the com- 
 promise made in 1856, and fellowship the brethren as it 
 was then agreed upon by the Annual Meeting. And we 
 further got an expression from them, that they have 
 adopted, and will adopt, the minutes of the Annual Meet- 
 ing in full, except in the practice of feet-washing. And, 
 as we learned by investigation, that there was a misunder- 
 standing between the parties, we laid down our power in- 
 vested in us by the Annual Meeting to communicate, and 
 
344 MINUTES OF 
 
 return our report to the Annual Meeting, that it may act 
 as it sees fit in the premises. And we further have to say, 
 that we were kindly met and received by the brethren and 
 sisters in Adams and Hancock counties, and found a Chris- 
 tian spirit manifested in them while we were with them, 
 and only feel sorry that we could not effect a union in the 
 practice of feet-washing. Signed by the committee : H. D. 
 Davy, John Metzger, Samuel Lehman, Christian Long." 
 
 Whereas, there has been a misunderstanding between 
 the brethren in Illinois, visited by the committee, and the 
 Annual Meeting ; and, whereas, said brethren have accepted 
 of the decisions of the Annual Meeting, and conformed to 
 the order of the church in every respect except in the order 
 of feet-washing; and, whereas, the different modes of 
 washing feet have been much agitated among the brethren 
 for some time past, neither to the edification of the breth- 
 ren, nor to the promotion of holiness in the church; and, 
 whereas, this Annual Meeting has given counsel, which, it 
 is hoped, will stop said agitation and let the subject rest; 
 therefore, this Annual Meeting concludes to bear a little 
 longer with said brethren, and see what the result will be. 
 It also advises brethren, when organizing new churches, to 
 organize them in the practice of the ordinances, according 
 to the general order of the brethren. 
 
 Art. 8. Would it not be more in accordance with the 
 Scriptures, and the example of the Savior, to dispense with 
 the salutation of the kiss at feet-washing, and at the com- 
 munion? Answer: We readopt the decision of the An- 
 nual Meeting of 1853, Art. 39. 
 
 Art. 4. What does this district think of the propriety 
 of requiring brethren, who shall hereafter write and pub- 
 lish books, to submit them to a committee, appointed by 
 the Yearly Meeting, for examination and approval, before 
 they offer them to the public? Answer: We think it ad- 
 visable for brethren to do so. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 845 
 
 Art. 5. How is it considered by the brethren, for a 
 brother to take the benefit of the bankrupt law ? Answer : 
 Considered not according to gospel. Matt. v. 40; Luke 
 xvi. 9, 10. 
 
 Art. 6. As our fraternity disapproves of its members 
 joining the Masonic order, and all secret societies, when a 
 report is in circulation that some of the brethren belong to 
 some such society, and the nature of the case being such 
 that it is very difficult, if not impossible, to obtain testi- 
 mony to prove the charge, has the church, under such cir- 
 cumstances, a right to question the brethren charged rela- 
 tive to the truth of the report, and if it has a right to do 
 so, and exercises that right, and the brethren refuse to an- 
 swer, what shall the church do? Answer: Under the cir- 
 cumstances alluded to, we consider that the church has a 
 right to question the brethren, to ascertain whether the 
 report is true, and we think such brethren owe it in honor 
 to themselves, and injustice to the church, to give a direct 
 answer upon the subject, and failing to do so, they throw 
 themselves liable to be dealt with as offending members. 
 
 Art. 7. Can a brother, consistently with the gospel, take 
 the benefit of the law by getting up a petition to locate a 
 ditch according to law, and thus compel others to ditch? 
 Answer : We consider it most in accordance with the gos- 
 pel, and the general principles of the brotherhood, not to 
 use the law to compel men to do any thing. 
 
 Art. 8. Shall officers in the church, involved in difficul- 
 ties, act in their office while involved in such difficulties, and 
 when there are others holding the same office? Answer : 
 we think the case should be first investigated before officers 
 are prohibited from acting in their offices. 
 
 Art. 9. Should brethren be allowed to anoint the sick 
 without first knowing of them whether they are at peace 
 with all, as much as lieth in them ; and if not, should it not 
 be required of the sick, before anointing them, to confess 
 their faults one to another, that they may be healed, and 
 
346 MINUTES OF 
 
 whether they should not be fully resigned to the will of 
 God whether to live or die? Answer: We consider the 
 direction for anointing the sick, already given by our breth- 
 ren, sufficient for ordinary occasions, but when any thing 
 further is necessary, brethren called upon to anoint should 
 act accordingly 
 
 Art. 10. Do the brethren consider it in accordance with 
 the order of the brethren, and tenor of the gospel, for mem- 
 bers of the church to take a drink of water from the table 
 at love-feast, while the tables are being furnished for sup- 
 per, or thanks are offered at our communion? Answer: 
 Members should tarry one for another, according to Paul 
 to the Corinthians. I. Cor. xi. 33. 
 
 Art. 11. Which would be the most consistent with the 
 teachings of the gospel, to have the supper off or on the 
 table at the time of washing feet? Answer: Inasmuch as 
 the teaching of the gospel, in this respect, is differently 
 understood by the brethren, we leave it with the churches to 
 decide which course will give the most satisfaction and 
 peace. 
 
 Art. 12. Shall we not determine, at this Annual Meet- 
 ing, to make voting a test of fellowship ? If not, then 
 shall we not leave the whole matter to the decision of the 
 brethren to do as they individually will, with all the dis- 
 cord and confusion we now have throughout the brother- 
 hood? Answer: "We conclude to readopt the decision of 
 the Annual Meeting of 1866, Art. 1. 
 
 Art. 13. Would it not be well for all committees called 
 to settle difficulties in churches to keep a record of their 
 proceedings, signed by the committee, and also by compe- 
 tent members of the church in which said committee acted, 
 tor reference? Answer: We think they should keep a 
 record, from the fact that so much misunderstanding oc- 
 curs without it. A duplicate of the proceedings should 
 also be left with the church, if it desires. 
 
 AVrt. 14. How is it to be considered when a brother is 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 347 
 
 conscientious in wearing Lis beard on his upper lip (a full 
 beard), and when there are other brethren who are con- 
 scientious in not saluting such brethren ? Answer : We 
 consider that in all such cases as the foregoing, brethren 
 should bear with one another. 
 
 Art. 15. Would it not be more in accordance with the 
 gospel, and the order of the brethren, to have a more uni- 
 form practice in giving letters of recommendation to mem- 
 bers moving from one arm of the church to another? 
 Answer: We think it best to let. the churches write certifi- 
 cates as will suit them, as this has heretofore been the 
 practice of the brethren. 
 
 Art. 16. Inasmuch as there is great dissatisfaction as re- 
 gards the decision of the Annual Meeting relating to in- 
 surance, in permitting brethren to insure property but not 
 life, aud thus permitting the rich who own real estate to 
 insure, but not the poor, should not a poor man be permit- 
 ted to insure his life as well as the rich his property? An- 
 swer : We defer this subject for the present. 
 
 Art. 17. As there seems to be a discord in the decision 
 of the Annual Meeting of 1850, Art. 32, and the Annual 
 Meeting of 1827, Art. 4, we wish to have them harmon- 
 ized, if possible. Answer: We consider that no unbap- 
 tized person can be a member of the church, and therefore 
 can not be anointed. 
 
 Art. 18. How is it considered if the majority of a con- 
 gregation decide against the decisions of the Annual Coun- 
 cil, can the bishops of said congregation act with the 
 minority of said church, and the decision of the Annual 
 Meeting? Answer: He can, as the Annual Meeting is of 
 higher authority than any one church. 
 
 Art. 19. Could not the Annual Meeting, during its sev- 
 eral sessions, arrange a little better for the accommodation 
 of the delegates, sent from the different districts on busi- 
 ness, by providing seats for them near the standing com- 
 mittee, it having been the case on former occasions that they 
 
348 MINUTES OF 
 
 were crowded oui to the remotest bounds of the assembly, 
 to their great dissatisfaction. Answer : Considered that 
 the committee of arrangements should provide a number 
 of seats nearest to the standing committee, sufficient to 
 seat all the delegates sent from districts. 
 
 Art. 20. Has an elder, or elders, a right to busy them- 
 selves with the affairs of another church, and take accus- 
 ing queries concerning it to the Annual Meeting, against 
 the bishops and elders thereof, and that secretly ? If not 
 right, what course should be pursued with those that would 
 do so, to the very great dissatisfaction of the church ? An- 
 swer : There may be cases where they have a right to look 
 up the affairs of another church. But it is wrong to accuse 
 elders of a particular church, anywhere secretly ; and if 
 they do, they should be admonished to desist. 
 
 Art. 21. Whereas, it has been repeatedly decided, at our 
 Yearly Meeting, that it is wrong for members of the church 
 to have their likenesses taken, what then is to be done with 
 members that have their likenesses taken? Answer: We 
 consider it not right for members to have their likenesses 
 taken, aud if they have done so, they should be admonished 
 to put them away. 
 
 Art. 22. What will this Annual Meeting do with regard 
 to Art. 21 'and its answer, of the ] minutes of the Annual 
 Meeting of 1868? Answer: We readopt the answer to 
 said article given by the Annual Meeting of 1868, and rec- 
 ommend the brethren to carry out the plan and 'give'it a 
 fair trial. 
 
 Art. 23. Should not the query and answer of Art. 35, 
 of 1865, be repealed? said query relating to outside testi- 
 mony ? Answer: We think the decisions of former years 
 go as far as we can go in taking outside testimony in try- 
 ing members of the church. 
 
 Art. 24. Is it according to the gospel for brethren who 
 are school teachers, whether lay members, ministers, oi 
 elders, at the expiration of their school, to have exhibi 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 349 
 
 tions, at which their scholars speak dialogues, and have 
 two or three fiddles to keep up time, and have large crowds 
 assembled together? And if it is wrong, can it be done? And 
 if it is right, please give us Scripture for it, so that all may 
 be satisfied. Answer: We consider such exhibitions very 
 wrong, and think brethren should not encourage them. 
 
 Art. 25. Whereas, Bro. II. Kurtz has requested this 
 Annual Meeting to give the committee getting out the 
 German hymn-book liberty to add a few more hymns than 
 were at first decided, this meeting thinks the book should 
 contain no more hymns than were first agreed to. And as 
 it has been ascertained by this meeting that the German 
 members are very anxious to have the German hymn-book 
 completed, it requests the committee to get the book out 
 as soon as possible, and by the united wisdom of all the 
 committee. 
 
 Art. 26. Request for committees : 1. A request from the 
 Miami Church, Ohio. The request was granted, and the 
 following brethren appointed : J. P. Ebersole, Daniel 
 Brower, Joseph Kaufi'man, and Jacob Garver. 2. A com- 
 mittee for the Bush Creek Church, Maryland, was requested 
 and granted, and the following brethren were appointed : 
 II. D. Davy, John Wise, David Long, and Joseph F. 
 Rohrer. 3. The following brethren were appointed as a 
 committee to visit the Antioch Church, Indiana : H. D. 
 Davy, David Bechtelheimer, Daniel Brower, Jacob Berkey, 
 and J. Miller, of Portage. 4. The following brethren were 
 appointed a committee to Fawn River Church, Indiana : 
 Jacob Miller, of Portage, Jacob Berkey and Christian 
 Wenger. 5. The following brethren were appointed a 
 committee to visit the church in Bedford County, Penn- 
 sylvania : Grabill Myers, Jacob Price, and Moses Miller. 
 (J. The following brethren form the committee to Tennes- 
 see to organize a church : Abraham Naff, David Derrick, 
 and B. F. Moomaw. 7. The following brethren were ap- 
 
850 MINUTES OF 
 
 pointed to visit the Price Creek Church, Ohio : Peter Nead, 
 II. D. Davy, and Isaac Miller. 
 
 Art. 27. The request of the brethren of Black Hawk 
 County, Iowa, for the Annual Meeting of 1870, was re- 
 newed, and it was decided, the Lord willing, to have the 
 next Annual Meeting with the brethren in Black Hawk 
 County, Iowa. Brethren E. K. Buechly and S. M. Miller 
 were appointed corresponding secretaries. Their address 
 is "Waterloo, Black Hawk County, Iowa. 
 
 The business before the council being disposed of, the 
 meeting was closed with exhortation, singing, and prayer, 
 as the brethren felt to praise God that he had favored them 
 with his presence and help, and thereby enabled them to 
 hold a very pleasant and successful Annual Council. 
 
 Standing committee and officers: Abraham Naff, John 
 Wine, Peter Nead, John P. Ebersole, Henry I). Davy, 
 Robert II. Miller, Jacob Flory., Jacob Berkey, John Metz- 
 ger, Samuel Lehman, David Brower, Elias Iv. Buechly, 
 John Wise, Grabill Meyers, David Gerlach, Isaac Pfoutz, 
 D. T. Sayler, David Long, Abraham Malsby, F. W. Dove, 
 James Quinter. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1870. 
 
 As usual a large number of brethren and sisters assem- 
 bled in the vicinity of the place of the general council- 
 meeting before the time for beginning the council. Meet- 
 ings for public preaching were held in a number of places. 
 
 On Tuesday morning, June 7th, the meeting was duly 
 organized, and opened with devotional exercises, among 
 which was the reading of the fifteenth chapter of the Acts 
 of the Apostles. The council then proceeded to business, 
 and the following subjects were duly considered and passed 
 by the meeting, as herein stated : 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 851 
 
 Article 1. Should not a full report of questions and an- 
 swers passed by the Annual Meeting be given, instead of 
 merely referring to former decisions? Answer: We think 
 a full report of the answers should be put into the minutes, 
 when they are not too long. 
 
 Art. 2. lis it considered right for a brother to take or re- 
 ceive a pension, back pay, or bounty, for services rendered 
 to the government before he became a member of the 
 church ? Answer: We think he may be allowed to do so. 
 
 Art. 3. As there has been a petition presented to this 
 Annual Meeting for a committee to go to California and 
 Oregon to organize churches, and to set things in order, 
 the meeting appointed Bro. Jacob Miller, of Portage, and 
 Bro. D. Sturgis, of South Bend, Indiana, as the committee. 
 It was also concluded to make provisions to defray the ex- 
 penses of the committee, which it was supposed would be 
 about three hundred dollars. Bro. Christian Wenger was 
 appointed receiver to receive the funds collected. His ad- 
 dress is South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana. To 
 further the collection of said funds, the elders were recom- 
 mended to lay the subject before their congregations. 
 
 Art. 4. We desire an answer to Art. 16 of last Annual 
 Meeting. This article is as follows : Inasmuch as there is 
 great dissatisfaction as regards the decision of the Annual 
 Meeting, relating to insurance, in permitting brethren to 
 insure property but not life, and thus permitting the rich 
 who own real estate to insure, but not the poor, should not 
 a poor man be permitted to insure his life as well as the 
 rich his property ? Considered, that we postpone this ques- 
 tion. 
 
 Art. 5. Inasmuch as excommunicated persons do fre- 
 quently, under the present system of our Annual Council, 
 call for committees to reconsider their cases, and that most 
 generally to the dissatisfaction of the church where such 
 cases originated, will not this district-meeting petition our 
 Annual Conference to consider this matter, and decide that 
 
o52 MINUTES OF 
 
 all sucli requests for a rehearing shall be made to the elders 
 in adjoining districts; and as they have more or less knowl- 
 edge of the case, let them consider the propriety of giving 
 such persons a rehearing? This query being taken to the 
 Annual Meeting for further consideration, received the fol- 
 lowing answer : Answer : This meeting judges it best to 
 make no change from the present practice of the brother- 
 hood in the subject referred to in the preceding query, but 
 it thinks that the Annual Meeting should be very careful 
 in appointing committees, and appoint none but what are 
 absolutely required. 
 
 Art. 6. Whereas, there was a letter published in one of 
 our periodicals soon after the last Aunual Meeting, in 
 which statements were made unfavorable to the integrity 
 of the standing committee, and thereby involving, more or 
 less, the character of the whole meeting, we therefore think 
 that the correctness of the statements above referred to 
 should be investigated, and consequently ask the next An- 
 nual Meeting to make such an investigation. The subject 
 being considered, the Annual Meeting thought that an in- 
 vestigation was necessary, and appointed the following 
 brethren a committee to investigate the subject : Solomon 
 Garber, Jacob "Wine, Peter Nininger, Moses Miller, and J. 
 D. Trostle. 
 
 ; Art. 7. Whereas, S. Z. Sharp and H. R. Ilolsinger have 
 drawn forth many expressions of censure, and have evi- 
 dently greatly wounded the feelings of the members of the 
 standing committee of last Annual Meeting, and also of 
 very many members of the church, by the publication of 
 certain reports that reflect very unfavorably upon the con- 
 duct of said committee; therefore, the brethren composing 
 the western district of Maryland, in district-council assem- 
 bled, do request the Annual Meeting to appoint a commit- 
 tee to investigate the facts of the case and determine what 
 acknowledgments or satisfaction must be made to restore 
 harmonv and love again, and this to be attended to at the 
 
.. ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 353 
 
 Annual Meeting of 1870. The foregoing request was 
 granted, and Samuel Garber, D. 13. Sturgis,' Jacob Miller, 
 Daniel Wolf, and John Crist, were appointed a committee 
 of investigation. In due time the following report of the 
 committee was submitted to the meeting and adopted : We, 
 the committee appointed by this Annual Meeting to inves- 
 tigate the cause of grievances set forth in Art. 7, after 
 carefully investigating the matter, decide as follows: First: 
 Bro. H. R. Holsinger assumed an unprecedented and un- 
 justifiable course in employing a reporter without author- 
 ity from the church. Second : In not regarding the counsel 
 of the last Annual Meeting (Art. 1, clause fourth), in pub- 
 lishing S. Z. Sharp's letter, casting severe reflections on the 
 standing committee, which Bro. II. R. Holsinger knew, or 
 ought to have known, was a misrepresentation of the facts 
 in the case proved to us. Third: In answering the defense 
 of the standing committee, his criticism and language were 
 unbecoming a brother. (See " Christian Family Compan- 
 ion," Vol. V, No. 45, pp. 696, 697, 698.) And we also find 
 that the committee did no more than duty required of them 
 in rejecting the reporter. It is also clearly proved to us 
 that the committee offered Bro. II. R. Holsinger all the 
 privileges he formerly enjoyed, to make his own report. 
 
 In consideration of the above, we require, in order to 
 restore peace and harmony, that Bro. H. R. Holsinger ac- 
 knowledge that he did wrong, and that he asks the for- 
 giveness of the church. S. Garber, D. B. Sturgis, J. Miller, 
 D. Wolf, J. Crist. After the reading of the report, Bro. 
 II. R. Holsinger made an acknowledgment satisfactory to 
 the meeting. 
 
 Art. 8. Is it the duty of the members of the church to 
 take special care of their orphan children in getting homes 
 for them among the brethren, and in having them raised 
 up in the faith of the gospel? Answer: We think it is 
 according to Eph. vi. 4. 
 
 Art. 9. Whereas, a number of the district-meetings have 
 
354 MINUTES OF 
 
 sent to this Annual Meeting an expression unfavorable to 
 a reporter making a full report of the proceedings of our 
 Annual Meeting, therefore we resolve that no report by a 
 reporter be made. 
 
 Art. 10. Is it according to the Scriptures, and the order 
 of the brethren, for a brother who moves from one district 
 of the church to another, and obtains his letter, to carry it 
 for months and still refuse to give it up? And what is to 
 be done in such a case, and which church is to consider it? 
 Answer: We consider the answer to Art. 5, in the minutes 
 of 1866, a sufficient answer to the above query. 
 
 Art. 11. Is it the duty of the church to support a widow 
 after she is sixty years of age, having nephews who are 
 able to support her? (See I. Tim. v. 16.) Answer: It is, 
 provided the nephews have not the will or means to sup- 
 port her. 
 
 Art. 12. Would it not be prudent, since secret orders, 
 such as Freemasons, Odd-Fellows, etc., are becoming more 
 and more prevalent, to ask every applicant for baptism 
 whether he belongs to any secret order? Answer: We 
 consider it necessary and prudent to do so. 
 
 Art. 13. A sister was received into the church years ago 
 by single immersion, but upon the agitation of the subject, 
 the question arises, can she be retained as a member of the 
 church? Answer: We consider that the gospel, and our 
 consistency in regard to our practice of the gospel, require 
 us to adhere strictly to our mode of immersion, as recog- 
 nized in the minutes of our Annual Meeting. (See Min- 
 utes of 1841, Art. 5.) 
 
 Art. 14. Whereas, much dissatisfaction exists among the 
 brethren, relative to the answer of the first article of the 
 minutes of 1868, and the insertion of the answer of a dis- 
 trict-meeting before the answer of the Annual Meeting, 
 whereby many are unable to understand what the answer 
 of the Annual Meeting to said query was, will the dis- 
 trict-meeting agree to ask the Annual Meeting to define 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 355 
 
 plainly to the whole'bretherhood, through, the minutes of 
 this year, how much of said article is the answer of the 
 Annual Meeting, and authoritative? Answer, yes; for we 
 very much desire a better understanding on that subject, 
 and we therefore ask a reconsideration of Art. 1, of the 
 minutes of 1868. Answer : We agree to reconsider said 
 article, and leave out of the minutes of the Annual Meet- 
 ing of 1868 the answer of the district of eastern Maryland, 
 which reads as follows : " Considered, by this meeting, that 
 the words in question do annul the marriage contract." 
 And as a large proportion of the brotherhood understand 
 that it only suspends, while others understand that it an- 
 nuls the marriage contract, and viewing this difference of 
 sentiment among us, and the majority believing that forni- 
 cation only suspends the marriage contract, and as the 
 tendency of the practice of the age is toward too great a 
 looseness of the binding power of the marriage vow, we 
 think it most advisable, for the present, to act in the 
 church as if the marriage contract is only broken by death. 
 
 Art. 15. Is it in accordance with the spirit of the gospel, 
 and the order of the brethren, for a brother voluntarily to 
 inform the civil authorities against a man for selling liquors 
 contrary to law? Answer: It is not. 
 
 Art. 16. A man goes to the army, and when he comes 
 home his wife was married to another man, and she'con- 
 tinues to be the second man's wife. Some time after he 
 marries a widow, and they live together agreeably for some 
 years. They both then make application to be received 
 into the church by baptism, manifesting fruits of repent- 
 ance to the satisfaction of the church, his first wife, in the 
 meanwhile, still living in adultery. The church examines 
 him concerning separation, and finds him innocent. Then 
 examines the Scriptures, and the advice of the Annual 
 Meeting of 1857, Art. 8; also, minutes of 1856, Art. 24, in 
 the fear of the Lord, and in the presence of the applicants, 
 and according to the best judgment the church receives 
 
356 MINUTES OF 
 
 them. Can they be held as members of the church? An- 
 swer: They can not while they live together. 
 
 Art. 17. How is it considered, according to the gospel, 
 if a man marries a wife, and afterward they part; then he 
 marries a second woman, but puts her away because she is 
 not an honest woman. Then he applies for a bill of divorce, 
 and gets it. But he obtained no divorce from the first 
 woman. Then, to satisfy the law, he marries his first wife, 
 and he and his wife both make application to become mem- 
 bers of the church; can they be received into the church? 
 Answer: They can be received by giving satisfactory evi- 
 dence of true repentance. 
 
 Art. 18. How is it considered for members to argue that 
 the old order of the brethren, in wearing a plain garment, 
 is the tradition of men, and say there is no scripture for 
 such order? Answer: We consider it wrong for members 
 to do so, and if they persist in such a course they should 
 be admonished. (See I. Peter v. 5; I. John n. 16.) 
 
 Art. 19. How is it considered for members of the church 
 to absent themselves from meeting, from time to time, with- 
 out any good or lawful excuse? Answer: We consider it 
 wrong for members to absent themselves from meeting, and 
 should they do so for three or four times, they should be 
 visited to ascertain the cause; and if no good cause can be 
 given, they should be admonished. Heb. x. 24, 25. 
 
 Art. 20. Since the Annual Meeting has, at different 
 times, decided against the excessive use of tobacco (See 
 Minutes of 1864, Art. 19), but the object desired has not 
 yet been realized, we therefore ask this district-meeting to 
 suppress its use altogether, except for medical or mechan- 
 ical purposes, and to deal with such as use it according to 
 Matt, xviil, as we consider it proper to deal with members 
 for wearing fashionable garments. Minutes of 1863, Art. 
 3, and Minutes of 1866, Art. 27. The district-meeting fa- 
 vored the request, and sent it to the Annual Meeting. An- 
 swer : This Annual Meeting renews its disapprobation of 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 357 
 
 the use of tobacco, and especially at the time and in the 
 place of divine worship, and believes it should be classed 
 with other vain and useless things. ' 
 
 Art. 21. Inasmuch as both the district and Yearly Meet- 
 ing have decided that it is inconsistent with the gospel, 
 and the order of the brethren, for a brother to preach who 
 will not conform to the order of the church, shall not the 
 church have the liberty to take his office from him, if he 
 remains obstinate after being admonished? Answer: We 
 think it shall, after being admonished again and again by 
 the church. 
 
 Art. 22. How do the brethren at this meeting consider 
 it, if sisters are not willing to wear a covering on their 
 heads at time of worship, according to the order of the 
 brethren, and what is to be done with a minister that con- 
 tends that there is no covering necessary but the hair ? 
 Answer: We are to deal with such sisters mildly, but 
 strictly. But such a minister should be admonished to 
 withdraw such contentions, and if he does not adhere, he 
 is to be dealt with according to Matt, xviii. 
 
 Art. 23. Is it right for brethren or sisters to have musical 
 instruments in their houses, such as melodeons or organs? 
 Answer : We think it not expedient to have them in our 
 houses, when they cause offense, and we think, under such 
 circumstances, every brother and sister that have them 
 ought to be admonished, in love, to put them away, agree- 
 ably to Eph. v. 19; Col. m. 16; James v. 13. 
 
 Art. 24. What is the rule of the brethren, when a mem- 
 ber is expelled, and removes into another or adjoining dis- 
 trict, and after living in the other district some six or seven 
 years, and then makes application for membership, which 
 church shall then receive him with hand and kiss, after 
 reconciliation is made with the church that expelled him? 
 Answer: The church in which "he lives at the time he is 
 restored. 
 
358 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 25. Does the Annual Meeting consider it wrong foi 
 the brethren to hold their Sunday-schools in their meeting- 
 houses? Answer: We consider it not wrong, if such 
 schools are conducted according to order, and by the con- 
 sent of the church. 
 
 Art. 26. In relation to the anointing of Christ, as re- 
 corded in Matt. xxvi. 13, and presented by one of the dis- 
 trict-meetings, w*e would say that the subject is worthy of 
 our consideration and attention, but we do not think it 
 best or necessary to give any direction as to- time or place 
 at which it should be preached ; and because of its length 
 we omit the query, as it came from the district-meeting. 
 
 Art. 27. Why is it that the brethren use leavened bread 
 at their love-feasts ? Had we not better take the example 
 of Christ and the apostles, and use unleavened bread? 
 Answer : We do not believe it right to keep the Jewish 
 customs. 
 
 Art. 28. Will the brethren of this Annual Council take 
 into consideration the importance of having the bread and 
 wine on the table at supper, so as to harmonize with the 
 gospel? Answer: We think it best to adopt the decision 
 of the Annual Meeting of 1864, Art. 26, which reads as 
 follows: "We think, in case of anj^ change being desired 
 in the established order, in any branch of the church, espe- 
 cially with regard to the communion, it would always be 
 best and safest, for the preservation of love and union, to 
 take no steps in any change of this kind, until the whole 
 church is agreed, or the district-meeting is consulted." 
 
 Art. 29. Inasmuch as the district-meetings have no reg- 
 ular order for appointing delegates to the Annual Meeting, 
 we offer the following method to the brotherhood : Let 
 three official members constitute a committee for receiving 
 the votes of the delegates from the several churches com- 
 prising the district-meetings. The above plan for appoint- 
 ing delegates to the Annual Meeting was submitted by the 
 standing committee and accepted by the General Council. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 359 
 
 Art. 30. Iu compliance with the requestsgriade, the fol- 
 lowing committees were appointed : 1. To the Cold Water 
 Church, Butler County, Iowa, David B rower, Henry Strick- 
 ler, and Peter Forney. 2. To the Eel River and Washing- 
 ton churches, Indiana, Iliel Hamilton, Jacob Wagner, and 
 Jacob Flory. 3. To the Rock River, West Branch, and 
 Yellow Creek churches, Illinois, H. D. Davy, John Wise, 
 and John Metzger. 4. To the Rush Creek Church, Ohio, 
 II. D. Davy, James Quinter, John Wise, J. P. Ebersole, 
 and Eli Stoner. 5. To the Georges Creek Church, Penn- 
 sylvania, II. D. Davy, John Wise, and C. G. Lint. 8. To 
 the Snake Spring Valley Church, Pennsylvania, Joseph 
 Hanawalt, John Gluck, Isaac Myers, Moses Miller, and J. 
 Berkey. 
 
 Art. 31. The request from the eastern district of Penn- 
 sylvania, for the Annual Meeting of 1371, was granted, 
 and, therefore, the Lord willing, the next Annual Meeting 
 will be with the brethren in the above-named district, in 
 1871, commencing on Tuesday after Pentecost. Christian 
 Bomberger, Rothsville, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, 
 and Samuel R. Zug, Mastersonville, Lancaster County, 
 Pennsylvania, are the corresponding secretaries, with whom 
 correspondence can be held. Further particulars, as to 
 place, etc., will be given in due time. 
 
 It was resolved that Bro. John Buechly, of Illinois, be 
 the agent for obtaining railroad privileges west of Pitts- 
 burgh and the Ohio River, and Bro. Christian Custer, of 
 Philadelphia, for obtaining such privileges east of Pitts- 
 burgh. 
 
 The business before the meeting being disposed of in 
 much harmony and love, after a short season of devotional 
 exercises, in which the six hundred and eighty-fourth 
 hymn was sung, a short exhortation given, and supplica- 
 tion and thanksgiving offered, the council closed, leaving, 
 apparently, the lingering impression upon many minds 
 that it was good to be together. 
 
360 MINUTES OF 
 
 Standing c#himittee and officers: J. Trostle, D. Long, 
 D. Gerlach, I. Myers, John Wise, II. D. Davy, E>. Brower, 
 D. J. Peek, F. P. Loehr, P. Nininger, Jacob Wine, J. Quin- 
 ter, Christ. Wenger, Jacob Metzger, Iliel Hamilton, E. Eby, 
 M. Sisler, John Metzger, Jacob Hanger, G. I\. Baker, A. 
 Replogle, G. Witwer, Wm. Gish. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1871. 
 
 On Monday afternoon the standing committee met, and 
 organized by the appointment of the necessary officers. 
 
 On Tuesday morning the meeting was opened with de- 
 votional exercises, and the reading of the fifteenth chapter 
 of the Acts of the Apostles, after which the business com- 
 menced. 
 
 Upon the reception of the papers from the delegates 
 from the district committees, it was ascertained that the 
 following subjects were designed to come before the Gen- 
 eral Council. They were accordingly considered and acted 
 upon, as herein stated: 
 
 Article 1. What is to be done when a church needs a 
 brother in the second degree of the ministry, but lacks con- 
 fidence to advance the one that is oldest in office; yet, out 
 of necessity, the church has tried twice to advance him, 
 but was opposed each time by the majority of the members 
 voting against him? Answer: The brother should be in- 
 formed of the cause of such opposition, so that he may 
 have an opportunity to remove it; and if he can remove 
 the cause, then the church may, and should, advance him; 
 but if the cause is not removed, then the church may ad- 
 vance the next one in office. 
 
 Art. 2. Inasmuch as the brethren, assembled in Annual 
 Council in 1858, saw no inconsistency in deacons rising to 
 their feet to exhort, and as some of the elders, when in- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 361 
 
 stalling deacons, still charge them to keep their seat, would 
 it be inconsistent, when thus charged, for them to rise to 
 exhort? Answer: We think all deacons should have the 
 privilege to rise when it becomes their duty to speak, and 
 that elders, when installing deacons, should observe this 
 decision. 
 
 Art. 3. Does the Annual Meeting of 1871 claim Salem 
 College, of Bourbon, Indiana, to be under the auspices of 
 our brotherhood ? Answer : It does not regard it as a 
 church school, or conducted by the general brotherhood, 
 though it is under the auspices of members of the church, 
 and is supported by those who patronize it, and not by do- 
 nations of the church. 
 
 Art. 4. "Will this district-meeting approve of the follow- 
 ing amendment to the plan of holding Annual Meetings: 
 Let the districts send one delegate to represent them on the 
 standing committee, and each congregation send one rep- 
 resentative, and these to compose the Annual Meeting, and 
 all queries to be decided by that body alone? Answer: 
 "We think it best not to make the change asked for, at 
 present. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it according to the gospel for a brother to swear 
 his life against a brother? Answer: Xot according to the 
 gospel. 
 
 Art. 6. Whereas, the eastern district of Maryland has 
 decided that our colored brother, Elias Fisher, be author- 
 ized to preach the gospel to the colored people, and since 
 he was installed there have been exceptions taken to the 
 manner of his promotion, will this Annual Meeting con- 
 firm the decision of the eastern district of Maryland? An- 
 swer: In relation to the above case, it appears, from what 
 this Annual Meeting has learned, that there has been a 
 failure on the .part of the elders in the district to author- 
 ize Bro. Fisher to preach, and owing to said failure, a 
 brother in the second degree installed him, by the laying 
 on of hands. As this was a departure from the practice 
 
362 MINUTES OF 
 
 of the church, we think it was very improper; and, while 
 we recognize Bro. Fisher as a minister among us, we con- 
 sider him only in the first degree, regarding the laying on 
 of hands as conferring no official authority whatever. 
 
 Art. 7. Should not this district adopt measures to pro- 
 vide and supply ministerial aid for churches where there 
 is no preacher? and also to fill calls, open missions, preach 
 the gospel, and introduce the principles of the brethren in the 
 many sections within said district, which they have not yet 
 reached? Answer: This Annual Meeting approves of the 
 suggestions in the above query, as it is very necessary that 
 churches or bodies of brethren, in which there are no resi- 
 dent ministers, should be assisted; and inasmuch as there 
 are many localities where the gospel, as preached and prac- 
 ticed by the brethren, is not known, we think the gospel 
 should be taken into such places. As it regards the meas- 
 ures necessary to accomplish these objects, we think the 
 district should adopt such measures as it judges best cal- 
 culated to answer its purpose. 
 
 [Xote. — This query came to the Annual Meeting with- 
 out any answer. It was the duty of the standing commit- 
 to form an answer to it, and submit said answer to the 
 General Council. The above answer was accordingly 
 formed and submitted to the committee, and received the 
 unanimous vote of the committee. But owing to the fact 
 that it was not answered, it was deferred, when first intro- 
 duced, and was afterward overlooked. It then occurred to 
 the mind of the clerk that it had been overlooked, and he 
 regretted it very much. Having an opportunity to do so, 
 he mentioned the circumstances to several of the standing 
 committee after the meeting closed, and they thought it 
 might be put on the minutes. We accordingly insert it, 
 not as having received the sanction of the General Council, 
 but that of the standing committee. — Clerk.] 
 
 Art. 8. Will the district-meeting petition the Annual 
 Meeting to reconsider and revoke Art. 27, of the minutes 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 363 
 
 of the Annual Meeting, passed A. D. 1856, relative to the 
 holy kiss? Answer: This Annual Meeting thinks it best 
 to make no change of Art. 27, of 1856. 
 
 Art. 9. Is it in accordance with the gospel for brethren 
 to belong to the building and loan associations now organ- 
 ized in different parts of the country? Answer: We ad- 
 vise the brethren not to unite with such associations until 
 they understand them properly, and are satisfied that unit- 
 ing with them does not conflict with the gospel. 
 
 Art. 10. Is it the duty of the church to support a wid- 
 owed sister over threescore years old, and who has nephews 
 that are members of the church, and these nephews being 
 able to support her? Answer: "We agree to defer this 
 subject to our next Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 11. Is it according to the gospel, and the order of 
 the brethren, in case a member wishes outside testimony 
 to prove his position in a matter of difference between 
 members in the church, to have said testimony qualified 
 by an oath or affirmation ? Answer: We consider it not 
 according to the gospel for members to require outside 
 evidence under oath or affirmation. 
 
 Art. 12. Does the gospel teach that the brethren are (by 
 the gospel) to aid one another in case of loss ; and if so, 
 ought they not to establish their own insurance companies, 
 and not insure in those of the world ? Answer : We con- 
 clude to defer this question until our next Annual Meet- 
 ing. 
 
 Art. 13. Would it not be in harmony with the Script- 
 ures, and the councils of our brethren, when there is con- 
 siderable difficulty in a church, and the cause of the Mas- 
 ter suffers in consequence thereof, for the elders of the 
 adjoining churches to visit said church and set things that 
 are necessary in order? Answer: We consider it would 
 be in harmony with the Scriptures, and the order of the 
 brethren, to do so. 
 
 A.rt. 14. Is it considered right for a brother in the min- 
 
364 MINUTES OF 
 
 istry to exercise his own judgment in reference to remain- 
 ing in or moving out of the church in which he was chosen, 
 or must he remain in said church or district until the breth- 
 ren there see proper to let him go ! Answer: "We consider 
 that it would be best for all ministering brethren, before 
 leaving a church, to counsel it, and it should spare him it 
 it can do so. 
 
 Art. 15. Would it not render more general satisfaction 
 if churches which have difficulties to settle would, when 
 they fail to settle them, call upon the elders in the adjoin- 
 ing churches to come to their assistance ; and if, in case a 
 committee be after that needed, let them apply to their an- 
 nual district-meeting, instead of our General Conference, 
 for said committee, and let it be selected from the churches 
 which compose said district-meeting, saving much expenses, 
 etc.? Answer: We think it best to make no change in re- 
 gard to the authority for appointing committees to make 
 a final settlement of difficulties. 
 
 Art. 16. When a brother has fallen into the judgment of 
 the church, and it takes an action in his case to the dissat- 
 isfaction of the brother, and he wants a rehearing or an 
 investigation of the church's proceedings, what is the 
 proper course to be pursued to get a rehearing? Answer: 
 The expelled member shall first apply, through the officers, 
 to the church which acted on the case ; if, however, the 
 officers refuse to bring it before the church, the elders in 
 the adjoining churches may call said church together to 
 ascertain whether it will grant a rehearing to the expelled 
 member. But, if the church refuses to grant a rehearing, 
 then the said expelled member should obtain what names 
 of the members in the church he can to a petition to the 
 Annual Meeting for a committee to investigate the case. 
 
 Art. 17. Will not this Annual Meeting recall the privi- 
 lege granted to establish Sunday-schools, especially where 
 the church is not entirely unanimous? Answer: We do 
 not recall the above privilege, but where the establishing 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 365 
 
 of Sunday-schools would cause trouble or division, breth- 
 ren had better desist from introducing them. 
 
 Art. 18". Is it right for members of the church, even 
 elders and deacons, to make dinners or feasts on Sundays, 
 or on other days, spending much time in baking and cook- 
 ing, and setting their tables with many luxuries, and then 
 inviting other members, and such as are not members, to 
 come and feast with them ; and then, while eating, be en- 
 gaged in vain conversation, such as jesting and joking, and 
 perhaps eating to excess ? Answer : We consider it utterly 
 wrong for brethren to do so. (See Eph. v. ; I. Peter iv.) 
 
 Art. 19. How is it considered for members of the church 
 to attach themselves to the Washington Mutual Live Stock 
 Insurance Company? Answer: We consider that brethren 
 shoul not join any society by which they jeopardise their 
 non-resistant principles. 
 
 Art. 20. Can the church hold a man and his wife, both 
 members of the church, when the one will not live with 
 the other under any circumstances whatever? Answer: 
 We consider that the elders in the adjoining church shall 
 investigate the case, and dispose of it according to its 
 merits and the principles of the gospel. Being informed 
 of the case that gave rise to the above query, we name 
 John Metzger, Samuel Lehman, and Daniel Fry to attend 
 to it. 
 
 Art. 21. Inasmuch as the Annual Meeting has decided 
 that it is not improper to secure a debt by mortgage (See 
 Minutes of the Annual Meeting of 1825, Art. 2), would it 
 be proper for a brother to close such mortgage when the 
 debt is not paid according to contract? Answer: We have 
 no objection for brethren to secure money by mortgage, 
 but we can not advise brethren to close a mortgage by a 
 process of law. 
 
 Art. 22. We desire an explanation, with an answer, on 
 the words " again and again," used in answer to Art. 27, of 
 the Annual Meeting of 1866, as the word or words,'" again 
 
366 MINUTES OF 
 
 and again," is or are not scriptural language. Hence, how 
 often must an offending member be admonished to be ad- 
 monished again and again, before an action can be taken 
 against it? Answer: We still feel, as the brethren have 
 always felt, that it is difficult to lay down a definite rule to 
 apply to all cases concerning the subject alluded to in the 
 query. We think that the wisdom of the churches should 
 dictate the proper method of treating such cases. Where 
 the general conduct of members is such as becomes the 
 gospel of Christ, and there seems to be no inclination to 
 follow the fashions of the world, and their apparel is modest 
 and not gay, forbearance should be exercised toward such 
 members, hoping they will in time adopt the plain garment, 
 as this is considered one of the peculiarities of our frater- 
 nity, and in accordance with the Christian grace of sim- 
 plicity taught in the gospel. In cases, however, where 
 members, instead of conforming to the order of the breth- 
 ren in plainness of dress, conform to-and follow the fashions 
 of the world, such should be dealt with more rigorously ; 
 and, if after several admonitions, there seems to be no im- 
 provement, they*should be dealt with according to Matt. 
 xviii. ; and in dealing with such cases, both the salvation of 
 souls and the purity of the church should be kept in view. 
 
 Art. 23. If a speaker's or visiting brother's wife dies, 
 and he marries a woman that is not a member of the 
 church, can he still officiate in his office? A scriptural de- 
 cision is requested. Answer: We think he can; for where 
 there is no law, there is no transgression. 
 
 Art. 24. Whereas, it is generally understood by the 
 brethren, that members of the church are not permitted to 
 attend places of merriment, such as state and county fairs, 
 celebrations, circus shows, mass-meetings, and political con- 
 ventions, etc., and as we can not find any thing in the min- 
 utes on the subject, a decision from the Annual Meeting is 
 desired. Answer: We consider that the answer given by 
 

 ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 367 
 
 the Annual Meeting of 1859, Art. 14, covers and applies 
 to all the cases referred to in the query. The answer to 
 Art. 14, in the minutes of 1859, reads as follows: "Such 
 brethren should be admonished not to attend such places; 
 and if they still persist in doing so, they should be dealt 
 with according to Matt, xvin." 
 
 Art. 25. "Will this Annual Meeting permit brethren and 
 sisters to attend animal shows? Answer: This Annual 
 Meeting can give no such permit. 
 
 Art. 26. Is there not some way of bringing members to 
 an account, who speak disrespectfully of and disregard the 
 counsels of the Annual Meeting, and district and sub-dis- 
 trict-meetings? Answer: Such members should be ad- 
 monished, and if they will not hear, they should be dealt 
 with as transgressors. (See, also, Minutes of 1866, and a 
 paragraph under the heading, "The Organization of the 
 Annual Meeting.") 
 
 Art. 27. Is it advisable for a brother to serve as manager 
 or teacher of a college or high school, as the tendency 
 thereof is to lead many of the brethren from the simplicity 
 that is in Christ, and also to divide the brotherhood? In- 
 asmuch as the Annual Meeting has admitted the propriety 
 of a high school, as a private enterprise (See Art. 51, 1868), 
 we can not prohibit a brother from engaging in teaching in 
 such an institution ; and as it regards the fears that many ^ 
 entertain of the tendency of such an institution to lead breth- 
 ren from the simplicity of the church, this will depend 
 upon the character of the institution. And to guard the 
 Salem College against any such tendency, this Annual 
 Meeting advises the elders of the church district, in which 
 the college is located, to take into its charge all the teach- 
 ers and scholars of said college, who are members of the 
 church, and require of them to conform to the general 
 order of the brotherhood. ' 
 
 Art. 28. "Would it not be better to dispense with the dis- 
 trict-meetings entirely, and go back to the plan of 1848, 
 
368 MINUTES OF 
 
 for holding the Annual Meeting? Answer: We think it 
 best not to make the change asked for. 
 
 Art. 29. Will not the Annual Meeting make it binding 
 on all the churches to furnish all members, moving from 
 one place to another, with letters of recommendation, or a 
 reason why not when asked ? Answer : The churches shall 
 give recommendations, or a lawful reason why not. 
 
 Art. 30. Inasmuch as the brethren are misrepresented 
 and abused by enemies, saying the Brethren's Encyclopedia 
 is our discipline, kept secret by a few leading brethren, 
 would it not be better to advise the publisher to have no 
 more bound? Answer: We do not recognize the Breth- 
 ren's Encyclopedia to be a discipline of the church, but we 
 consider the reasons given in the query insufficient for 
 making any change in regard to publishing it. 
 
 Art. 31. Would it not be best to allow all brethren in 
 the second degree of the ministry to represent the churches 
 in Annual Meeting, and sit on the standing committee, if 
 sent by the district-meeting? Answer: We think it best 
 to make no change. 
 
 Art. 32. In order to avoid imposition on the churches r 
 should not all the members of the church, and especially 
 traveling preachers, be furnished with a certificate, properly 
 signed, showing their standing in the church? Answer: 
 W r e consider it advisable that members of the church, un- 
 der the circumstances alluded to, should be supplied with 
 certificates. 
 
 Art. 33. What course should be taken to bring into order 
 an individual arm of the church, which is much out of 
 order in regard to wearing of apparel, and implicated with 
 the world in attending school exhibitions, and debates, so 
 that their influence extends into neighboring churches, 
 causing trouble there? Answer: We consider it the duty 
 of the elders of the surrounding churches to take notice of 
 such churches, and set them in order. 
 
 Art. 34. Inasmuch as the Annual Meeting of 1870, Art. 
 
ANNUAL .MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 369 
 
 12, has decided that applicants for baptism should be asked 
 whether they belong to any secret order, and as our frater- 
 nity is opposed to all secret societies, would it not be well 
 to adopt some plan by which the members may be interro- 
 gated yearly, before we hold our communion meetings, 
 upon the subject of secret organizations? Answer: We 
 consider it necessary to interrogate members upon the sub- 
 ject alluded to in the cpuery, where there is any reason to 
 believe they belong to secret societies, but any thing further 
 we think unnecessary. 
 
 Art. 35. According to Art. 14, in minutes of 1869, can 
 the church tolerate a brother who assails the Annual Meet- 
 ing by writing against its decisions in the periodicals of 
 the brotherhood ? Answer : We think it is wrong for a 
 brother to do so, and any doing it should make satisfaction 
 to the church. 
 
 Art. 36. Would it not be more consistent with the gos- 
 pel for the brethren to adopt a definite name in writing 
 letters of recommendations? Answer: We think it would 
 be good to head all letters of recommendation as follows: 
 "We, the German Baptist Brethren, send greeting.'"' 
 
 Art. 37. Whereas, this Annual Meeting finds, to its great 
 regret, that the subject of feet- washing, in its single and 
 double mode, as the difference is called, has produced seri- 
 ous difficulties already among us, and threatens still greater 
 difficulties in the future. Questions relating to this sub- 
 ject have come from different localities in the brotherhood' 
 and it has assumed such a degree of importance as to com- 
 mend it to the serious and prayerful attention of the broth- 
 hood. Under these considerations, with much prayerful 
 reflection, the propriety has suggested itself to us of calling 
 the elders of the brotherhood together to consider this mat- 
 ter, as the apostles and elders did to consider the case of cir- 
 cumcision. Acts xv. 6. We have therefore concluded to 
 recpuest all the ordained elders of the brotherhood to meet, 
 
 ni the fear of the Lord, and under a due sense of their re- 
 24 
 
370 MINUTES OF 
 
 sponsibility, in solemn assembly, on Whit-Monday, 1872, 
 at the place of our next Annual Meeting, to dispose of this 
 subject as the peace and prosperity of the fraternity require. 
 
 In the meantime, no church should be organized under 
 the single mode, neither should any church change from 
 the double to the single mode. And in order to obtain all 
 the information possible to present unto the council of 
 elders above alluded to, we appoint the following brethren 
 as a committee to ascertain, as far as possible, which was 
 the first mode practiced by our brethren in America : D. 
 P. Sayler, Jacob Reiner, and J. Quinter. 
 
 Art: 38. Calls for committees : 1. A request for a com- 
 mittee to visit the "West Branch Church, in Darke County, 
 Ohio, to settle difficulties. This w T as granted, and the fol- 
 lowing brethren were appointed : H. D. Davy, James 
 Quinter, Samuel Mohler. 2. A requst for a committee to 
 visit the Pine Creek Church, Ogle County, Illinois, for the 
 same purpose. This was granted, and the following breth- 
 ren constitute the committee : Samuel Lehman, Martin 
 Myers, and Michael Sisler. 3. For a committee to the 
 West Conestoga and Chiques Creek churches, in Lancaster 
 County, Pennsylvania, to settle difficulties. The following 
 are the brethren appointed : Joseph E. Hanawalt, Samuel 
 Lehman, Daniel Fry, John G. Gluck, John Metzger, and 
 F. P. Loehr. 4. A request for a committee to visit the 
 Sugar Creek Church, Allen County, Ohio. The following 
 brethren were appointed : Abraham Airbaugh, Abraham 
 Flory, John Brilhart, Noah Henricks, and Samuel Moh- 
 ler. 5. A request for a committee to visit the Milmine 
 Church, in Piatt County, Illinois, to settle difficulties in 
 said church. The following brethren were appointed: J. 
 R. Gish, George Gish, Daniel Nehr, and D. M. Holsinger. 
 6. A request from the Limestone Church, Washington 
 County, Tennessee, to settle difficulties. The following 
 brethren were appointed on the committee : Peter Crum- 
 packer, Abraham NefY, and B. F. Moomaw. 7. For Flk- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 371 
 
 hart Valley congregation, for the same purpose. Jacob 
 Berkey, C. Wenger, Jacob Miller, of Portage, D. B. Stuts- 
 man, and A. Whitmore. 
 
 Art. 39. Requests for the Annual Meeting : 1. A request 
 from the brethren in northern Ohio for the Annual Meet- 
 ing in 1872. 2. A request from the brethren in the Elk- 
 lick Church, Somerset County, Pennsylvania, for the An- 
 nual Meeting in 1873. 3. A request from northern Indiana 
 for the Annual Meeting of 1874. 
 
 There being but one request for the Annual Meeting in 
 1872, and that from the brethren in northern Ohio, the 
 meeting will be held, the Lord willing, at the usual time, 
 with the brethren in that part of the brotherhood. Infor- 
 mation in regard to the place at which it will be held, and 
 other particulars, will be given in due time. 
 
 Bro. Christian Custer, of Philadelphia, was appointed to 
 confer with the railroad companies in regard to obtaining 
 half- fare privileges. 
 
 The meeting closed as it commenced, with devotional ex- 
 ercises ; and after thanking the Lord for the pleasant sea- 
 son of Christian fellowship which many of his children 
 enjoyed, and after commending ourselves to the protection 
 of his providence and the word of his grace, the brethren 
 and sisters separated with mingled feelings of joy and sor- 
 row, produced by the reflections awakened by the occasion. 
 
 Standing committee and officers : John Zug, Moses Mil- 
 ler, John Wise, D. P. Sayler, David Long, Peter Crum- 
 packer, Solomon Garber, Martin Cossner, David Derrick, 
 F. W. Dove,' D. J. Peck, J. P. Ebersole, II. D. Davy, J. 
 Miller, Jacob Karns, George Hoover, D. Fry, John Metz- 
 ger, John Ilarshey, Benjamin Beeghly, and James Quinter. 
 
372 MINUTES OF 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1872. 
 
 On Monday a large number of elders collected, accord- 
 ing to previous arrangement, and conferred with one an- 
 other upon the subject they met to consider. 
 
 On Tuesday morning the general council-meeting was 
 opened in the ordinary manner, by devotional exercises, 
 and the reading of the fifteenth chapter of the Acts of the 
 Apostles. 
 
 In opening and examining the papers presented to the 
 council, it was ascertained that the following subjects were 
 sent to the meeting to be considered. Accordingly they 
 were considered in the fear of the Lord, and decided as 
 herein stated : 
 
 Article 1. Has the church a right to pass resolutions 
 and decisions, and enforce them to the expulsion of mem- 
 bers from the body, without thus saith the positive law of 
 the Lord ? Answer : The church shall not expel any mem- 
 ber without gospel authority 
 
 Art. 2. A request to reconsider Art. 20, of Annual Meet- 
 ing of 1870. There was a reconsideration of the article 
 referred to, and the answer of j 870 was renewed, and or- 
 dered to be put on the present minutes. It is as follows : 
 "This Annual Meeting renews its disapprobation of the 
 use of tobacco, and especially at the time, and in the place, 
 of divine worship, and believes it should be classed with 
 other vain and useless things." 
 
 Art. 3. Are members justifiable in refusing to commune 
 with bishops of other churches who tolerate pride in their 
 churches, when the Annual Meeting makes it their duty 
 to enforce plainness? Answer: Not until it is understood 
 that the elders who are said to have tolerated the evil al- 
 luded to have been admonished and labored with, to get 
 them in order. 
 
 Art. 4. Has the church the right to enforce her decisions 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 31'6 
 
 according to Matthew xvni., in matters where the gospel 
 is silent ? Answer : There may be evils of sufficient mag- 
 nitude to require a resort to the extreme of the course we 
 are directed to pursue in Matt, xvni., though those evils 
 for which members are dealt with may not be specified in 
 the gospel, but at the same time are clearly violations of 
 the principles of the gospel 
 
 Art. 5. Is the gospel a perfect law to govern the church 
 in all things necessary to salvation. Answer: It is 
 
 Art. 6. AVhat is the ancient and established order of the 
 brethren, when elders are called to labor in another arm of 
 the church? Are they to be taken in the private council 
 with the laboring brethren of that church, or not? An- 
 swer: They may be taken into the private council 
 
 Art. 7. Is it according to the order of the brethren in 
 private council that there be a unanimous consent of the 
 " official brethren" concerning any matter before it can 
 come before the church? Answer: The official brethren 
 should not bring a matter before the church, if they are 
 divided, until they have called the assistance of bishops of 
 adjoining districts. 
 
 Art. 8. Can the church tolerate a member in the body 
 that is a member of the society or order called Grange or 
 J\atrons [of Husbandry ? Answer : Xo brother or sister 
 should have any thing to do with such an order, it being a 
 secret-bound, and from appearance, a political association; 
 and members who have united with it, and persist in it, 
 should be dealt with as transgressors. (See Minutes of the 
 Annual Meeting of 1870.) 
 
 Art. 9. Is it right, according to the gospel and rules of 
 the brethren, for one arm of the church to delegate toan- 
 other arm the power of restoring back to the church a 
 member who had formerly been disowned by the arm first 
 named above? Answer: It has the power, by sending the 
 charge with the testimony, in connection with the testi- 
 mony where the member resides. 
 
874 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 10. Does this district understand the Annual Meet- 
 ing to mean that we should dispose of our likenesses en- 
 tirely when it advises us to put them away ? (See Minutes 
 of 1869, Art. 21.) Answer: This Annual Meeting under- 
 stands the phrase "put them away" to mean to put them 
 out of public sight. 
 
 Art. 11. What is to be done with a district of the church 
 that tolerates its members in taking illegal interest for 
 money loaned, after the Annual Meeting has decided again 
 and again that it is wrong to do so ? Answer : This Annual 
 Meeting thinks that that church should be visited by the 
 elders of the adjoining churches, to set in order the things 
 that are wanting. 
 
 Art. 12. Is it according to the gospel, and the order of 
 the brethren, for members of the church to teach instru- 
 mental music in public schools, or elsewhere ? We desire 
 the dear brethren, assembled in district-meeting, to give us 
 an answer on this subject. Answer: Whereas, we know 
 of no direct Scripture on the subject, we can only give our 
 advice on the query. And as we believe instrumental 
 music to be of the world, and not of the true church of 
 God, we think members had better not engage in teaching 
 it. But we submit our answer to the Annual Meeting. 
 This Annual Meeting confirms this answer. 
 fti Art. 13. Whereas, the Annual Meetiug of 1866, in or- 
 ganizing district-meetings, says: "The district-meetings 
 shall endeavor to settle all questions of a local character; 
 and, whereas, it is known that questions of such a charac- 
 ter have been settled, according to" truth and justice, by in- 
 dividual churches, aided by elders called by the church. 
 Yet there are always some members who are dissatisfied, 
 and appeal to the Annual Meeting for committees from 
 abroad, at heavy expenses, etc., which are no more compe- 
 tent of deciding correctly than are the elders in the district 
 in which the cases occur; therefore the district of eastern 
 Maryland petitions the Annual Meeting to authorize the 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN 375 
 
 several district-meetings to settle all questions and cases 
 arising among them, not of a doctrinal character. The 
 Annual Meeting postponed this question. 
 
 Art. 14. Will the Annual Meeting confirm or reject the 
 answer formed by the standing committee to Art. 7, of the 
 minutes of 1871 ? Answer : This Annual Meeting confirms 
 said answer. 
 
 Art. 15. Can brethren in the ministry, who have fallen 
 into the gross crimes mentioned by Paul in I. Cor. v., ever 
 be restored to their office? And if they can, in what way 
 shall it be done? Answer: We think they may, under 
 some circumstances, and the church having to act should 
 judge whether such circumstances exist. But we think it 
 should be, by the unanimous consent of the church, and 
 in the presence of at least three elders. But there are 
 some cases so grievous that we can not receive them into 
 their office. 
 
 Art. 1G. Will not this meeting urge a change in holding 
 our Aunual Meeting, as the present system is very unsatis- 
 factory ? A reconsideration of Art. 4, of the last Annual 
 Meeting, is desired. Answer: This Annual Meeting re- 
 adopts the answer of Art. 4, 1871. 
 
 Art 17. The following resolution contains the decision 
 of the meeting upon the subject of feet-washing: Make no 
 change whatever in the mode and practice of feet-washing, 
 and Btop the further agitation of the subject. 
 
 Art. 18. Whereas, both the new English hymn-book, 
 and also the German, are not used in some few of the 
 churches of our brotherhood; and, whereas, the use of the 
 two books, the old and the new, causes at times considera- 
 ble inconvenience, and for this and other reasons it is de- 
 sirable that- but one book should be used in our churches; 
 and, whereas, the reason given by some brethren for not 
 introducing the new book, is that the Annual Meeting has 
 never given them its sanction ; and, whereas, the English 
 book had, before its publication, been presented to the 
 
376 MINUTES OF 
 
 Annual Meeting for an expression of its judgment upon 
 the character of the work, but for want of time no ex- 
 pression was given ; and, whereas, the new books, both the 
 English and the German, have now been before the broth- 
 erhood for some time, and have given general satisfaction ; 
 therefore, resolved, that this Annual Meeting give the new 
 books its sanction, and liberty to all the members of the 
 churches to use them. 
 
 Art. 19. Resolved, that the request of John Dennis and 
 his brethren, of the State of Maine, in regard to a minis- 
 tering brother being sent to them, to preach the gospel and 
 make known to them the order of the brethren, should not 
 be slighted, but prayerfully considered by the Annual 
 Meeting, and measures adopted to carry the same into 
 effect. Answer: We think the minutes of 1860 and 1868 
 give the church ample liberty to make arrangements to 
 meet the case above alluded to ; we therefore refer the sub- 
 ject to the district-meeting from which it came. 
 
 Art. 20. We desire the Annual Meeting to correct the 
 minutes of last year, Art. 5, so as to read : " Ts it right for 
 a brother to swear his life against a man for any cause," 
 instead of, " Swear his life against a brother." Answer : 
 We adopt the correction. 
 
 Art. 21. Will this meeting allow brethren, and especially 
 ministering brethren, to engage in the banking business? 
 Answer: Not advisable for brethren to engage in such busi- 
 ness. (See Matt. vi. 3.) 
 
 Art. 22. We desire the Annual Meeting to reconsider 
 Art. 3, of the minutes of 1844, and if the present answer 
 may be adopted, then what shall be done with a brother 
 who violates the decision? The query above alluded to, 
 with the answer, are as follows: "Whether a brother may 
 go to the legislative assembly, as a representative of the 
 people, agreeably with the gospel? Considered, that 
 though we look upon the higher powers of the world as 
 being of God, for the protection of the pious, etc., and de- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 377 
 
 sire to be thankful to God for the benefit we enjoy under 
 our government, and feel it our duty to pray fervently and 
 daily for the same, we can not see how a follower of the 
 meek and lowly Savior can seek and accept an office of this 
 kind consistently with the gospel he professeth. (See Matt, 
 xx. 25-28; Mark x. 42-46; Luke xxn. 25; John xvn. 16, 
 etc.") The query was reconsidered, and the following an- 
 swer given by this meeting: Answer: We readopt the 
 answer to the minutes alluded to, and consider that any 
 brother who suffers himself to be elected to such office as 
 that named, and to serve in it, can not be retained as a 
 member of the church. 
 
 Art. 23. Which is the most in accordance with the gos- 
 pel, and example of Jesus and his disciples, to close our 
 love-feasts in the evening with singing or with prayer? 
 Answer: This meeting thinks singing last is most in ac- 
 cordance with the gospel. 
 
 Art. 24. Requests for committees to visit churches, to 
 settle difficulties, and which were granted: 1. A commit- 
 tee to the Shauesville Church, Tuscarawas Count}', Ohio, 
 John P. Ebersole, Samuel Mohler, and Daniel Brower. 2. 
 For the Donnel's Creek Church, Clarke County, Ohio, 
 John Wise, John Metzger, Joseph Henricks, Hiel Hamil- 
 ton, and R. II. Miller. 3. For the Beaver Dam Church, 
 Frederick County, Maryland, Moses Miller, Daniel Keller, 
 and Jacob Price. 4. For the Beaver Creek Church, Wash- 
 ington County, Maryland, D. P. Sayler, Jacob Price, and 
 Joseph Rohrer. 5. For the Spring River Church, Jasper 
 County, Missouri ; also, for the Cedar Creek Church, Cedar 
 County, Missouri, and perhaps for other churches, William 
 Gish, Christian Holler, Isaac Harshey, John Harshey, and 
 Enoch Eby. 6. For the Salem Church, Montgomery 
 County, Ohio, Samuel Mohler, Isaac Miller, and Samuel 
 Garber. 7. For the church on the north branch of the 
 Wild Cat, Indiana, H. D. Davy, John Wise, and Joseph 
 McCarty. 8. For the Chique's Creek Church, Lancaster 
 
378 MINUTES OF 
 
 County, Pennsylvania, and the Indian Creek Church, Mont- 
 gomery County, Pennsylvania, D. P. Sayler, Joseph Hana- 
 walt, J. G. Gluck, Daniel Keller, and Samuel Lehman. 9. 
 For the Chippeway Church, Wayne County, Ohio, Joseph 
 Rittenhouse, Jacob Garver, Conrod Kayler. 10. For the 
 St. Joseph Church, St. Joseph County, Indiana; Bloom- 
 ingdale Church, Michigan ; Elkhart Valley Church, Indi- 
 ana; Solomon's Creek Church, Indiana; Antioch Church, 
 Indiana ; and the Salamony Church, Indiana, D. P. Sayler, 
 J. Wise, II. D. Davy, C. Long, B. F. Moornaw, J. Quinter, 
 and Daniel Brower. 11. For Hurricane Church, Bond 
 County, Illinois, Joseph Henricks, David Wolf, Daniel ISTehr. 
 12. For the Silver Creek Church, Ogle Count}-, Illinois, 
 John Metzger, Enoch Eby, and Samuel Lehman. 13. For 
 the Owl Creek Church, Knox County, Ohio, Samuel Mohler, 
 James Quinter, David Long, A. Flory, and Daniel Brower. 
 14. For Fall Creek Church, Highland County, Ohio, H. D. 
 Davy, J. Quinter, and J. Franec. 
 
 Art. 25. Requests for the Annual Meeting: 1. The Elk 
 Lick congregation, Somerset County, Pennsylvania, renews 
 its application for the Annual Meeting in 1873. 2. A re- 
 quest for the Annual Meeting in southern Illinois in 1874. 
 
 As there was but one request for the Anuual Meeting in 
 1873, that from Somerset County, Pennsylvania, the Annual 
 Meeting of 1873 will be held, the Lord willing, at the usual 
 time, commencing on the first Tuesday after Whitsunday, 
 with the brethren of the Elk Lick Church, Somerset 
 County, Pennsylvania. All the needful information con- 
 cerning the place, etc., will be given in due time. 
 
 The following brethren were appointed to correspond 
 with the railroad companies, to obtain half-fare rates for 
 going to the meeting: John Beeghly, of Illinois, G. Wi't- 
 wer, of Missouri, and Jesse Calvert, of Indiana, for the 
 railroad west of Pittsburg; and H. R. Holsinger for the 
 Pittsburg, Baltimore and Washington railroad. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 379 
 
 After singing, exhortation, and prayer, the, meeting ad- 
 journed. 
 
 Standing committee and officers : II. D. Davy, Jacob 
 Garver, John Brown, D. B. Sturgis, Jacob Metzger, K. H. 
 Miller, Samuel Lehman, John Metzger, E. K. Beeghly, 
 Christian Long, Daniel Zook, William Gish, Samuel Mohler, 
 A. Malsbee, Ab. Naff, Solomon Garber, Martin Cosner, D. 
 Long, D. P. Sayler, Jacob Riner, Jos. Hanawalt, J. Wise, 
 and J. Quinter. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1873. 
 
 On Monday, June 2d, the standing committee met and 
 organized, and prepared a considerable amount of business 
 for the General Council. 
 
 On Tuesday morning the general council-meeting was 
 opened in the ordinary manner by devotional exercises, and 
 the reading of the fifteenth chapter of the Acts of the 
 Apostles. 
 
 The following queries were presented by the delegates 
 from the several districts, and were considered in the fear 
 of the Lord, and were decided as herein stated : 
 
 Article 1. Is it consistent for brethren to have their lives 
 insured ? and how shall we proceed with those brethren 
 who have their lives insured? Answer: It is inconsistent 
 for brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 2. What Scripture shall we name as an answer to 
 the following question: How shall those officers among us 
 be installed, whose duty it is to serve tables and to attend 
 to the wants and necessities of the poor members? An- 
 swer : Inasmuch as it is not certain that the seven persons 
 on whom hands were laid (Acts vi. 6) are to perform the 
 precise work that our visiting brethren are to do, and if 
 
880 MINUTES OF 
 
 they were not, then the manner of installation may differ, 
 and the manner of installing our visiting brethren may 
 be sought for in the general principles of the gospel, and 
 not in any one passage, and so the answer of our brethren 
 may be given. 
 
 Akt. 3. Is it not sufficient, and according to the gospel, 
 to ask the candidate for baptism, while in the water, the 
 only question, Dost thou believe that Jesus- Christ is the 
 Son of God ? instead of using the words of the formula, 
 found in the minutes of 1858, Art. 41? Answer: We 
 think one question is not sufficient, and therefore make no 
 change in our present practice. 
 
 Art. 4. Whereas, there is a difference of practice among 
 the brethren, in proceeding with members who trespass in 
 congregations in which they have not their membership, 
 some trying the case in the congregation where the trespass 
 was committed, while others would try it in the congrega- 
 tion where they live. Will not this meeting say where the 
 offense shall be tried, and thereby establish a uniform prac- 
 tice in the brotherhood ? Answer : The offender should be 
 tried in the congregation in which the offense was com- 
 mitted. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it right to gather or boil sugar-water on the 
 Sabbath or Lord's-day ? Answer: It is not right to do so. 
 
 Art. 6. We request district-meetings and the Annual 
 Meeting to decide that no report of the proceedings of our 
 Annual Meetings, further than than the queries and an- 
 swers thereto, be published. Answer: We decide that a 
 synopsis of the reasons given as a basis for decision, may 
 be given, but no names of speakers be used, and that the 
 publishers shall be responsible to the Annual Meeting for 
 their report 
 
 Art. 7. Whereas, the "Christian Family Companion" 
 and "Pilgrim" have published articles with reference to 
 decisions of questions of Annual Meetings, differing from 
 the sentiment contained in said decisions; and, also, com- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 381 
 
 munications from others, even from those who are not 
 members of the church, and even from expelle'd members, 
 reflecting seriously upon the character of the Aunual 
 Meeting ; therefore, resolved, that the editors of said peri- 
 odicals be required to make acknowledgment of their 
 offense, and to promise to be more guarded in the future in 
 this respect. The acknowledgment was made, and the 
 promise given. 
 
 Art. 8. Whereas, Bro. II. 1\. Ilolsinger has committed 
 great offense to the brethren at our present Annual Meet- 
 ing by pursuing the course he has. When complaints had 
 been presented from various places or districts in the broth- 
 erhood of the language he used in his paper, and when a 
 humble and meek explanation was expected by the breth- 
 ren, he, before the whole congregation, made assertions and 
 insinuations which grieved the brethren more than his 
 previous offenses, and to the dishonor of the brotherhood. 
 1. The spirit that he, as a minister of the gospel, mani- 
 fested, we consider altogether contrary to the gospel, and 
 the profession and character of our brotherhood. 2. He 
 declared that a brother, and the connection in which he 
 made the remark showed that it was a brother of some 
 eminence, would suppress the printing of the Bible. With 
 no testimony before him warranting him to make such a 
 declaration, we consider the charge a dishonor to the broth- 
 erhood. 3. h\ speaking against a brother, in warm and 
 strong language, and in alluding to the business that had 
 been done in the morning, which business pertained to a 
 point which had given the brethren much trouble, but 
 which was apparently settled quite as satisfactorily as could 
 have been expected, and when we felt pleasantly over it, he 
 said, alluding especially to the elders, " They were asked 
 to give the words of the Lord, and refused to do so." We 
 consider this remark, in the connection in which it was 
 used, injurious to the influence of the elders. 4. In say- 
 ing that one of the brethren used sophistry in his speech, 
 
382 MINUTES OF 
 
 we consider a great violation of Christian courtesy and 
 brotherly love. 5. In declaring that he would never sub- 
 mit to a certain restraint that was under consideration, he 
 plainly showed a spirit of disobedience and insubordination 
 to the church. The offenses alluded to in the foregoine 
 were by no means confined to the elders or standing com- 
 mittee, but they were very extensive in the congregation. 
 The impropriety of the unchristian course pursued, grieved 
 a large number of members, as their strong feelings, ex- 
 pressed after the meeting closed, plainly indicated. Now, 
 in view of the foregoing considerations, we require a very 
 humble acknowledgment of Bro. H. R. Holsinger, for his 
 offenses, and an assurance that his course in the future 
 shall be more respectful to the church and elders, and more 
 in accordance with the meekness and brotherly love incul- 
 cated in the gospel. An acknowledgment was made, and 
 the assurance given. 
 
 Art. 9. Is it according to the gospel, or is it conforming 
 to the world, when brethren subscribe for railroad stock ? 
 Answer: We know of no direct Scripture forbidding it; 
 but inasmuch as it brings us into associations in which we 
 are liable to violate our Christian principles, we would ad- 
 vise brethren not to engage in it. 
 
 Art. 10. Is it according to the Scripture, and the order 
 of the brotherhood, to have two or more housekeepers in 
 the same church, at the same time ? Answer: It is in ac- 
 cordance with the order of the brotherhood, and also in 
 accordance with the spirit of the gospel. (See Titus I. 5 ; 
 II. Tim. ii. 2. 
 
 Art. 11. As the Annual Meeting has given the liberty to 
 hold Sabbath-schools, if held according to the gospel, this 
 district-meeting thinks the Annual Meeting should give 
 the order for holding Sabbath-schools. Answer : This 
 query is answered in, or designed to be answered in, the 
 answer to Art. 14, of the minutes of 1868. And in addi- 
 tion to said answer, we would say that our Sabbath-schools 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 383 
 
 should be held, as all our meetings should be held, to the 
 glory of God. (I. Cor. x. 31.) And as the .object of our 
 Sabbath-school is to teach children Christianity, Sabbath- 
 school teachers should observe the directions given by Paul 
 to parents, in which he admonishes us to bring up our chil- 
 dren in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Eph. 
 vr. 4. 
 
 Art. 12. This district-meeting requests the Annual Meet- 
 ing of 1873 to reconsider Art. 15, of the minutes of 1868, 
 touching the propriety of brethren going on stands to 
 preach. Answer : Let this matter rest as it now is. 
 
 Art. 13. This district-meeting requests the Annual Meet- 
 ing to reconsider Art. 19, of the minutes of 1858, concern- 
 ing the manner of advancing brethren in the miuistry, from 
 the first to the second degree. Answer : "We consider the 
 order given in Art. 19, of the minutes of 1858, the proper 
 order. 
 
 Art. 14. When churches or individuals call for commit- 
 tees, shall the party calling for the committee pay the ex- 
 penses of said committee, or shall the committee say which 
 party shall pay the expenses? Answer: We think the 
 committee shall say who shall pay the expenses. 
 
 Art. 15. Is it agreeable with the gospel, or the old order 
 of the brethren, for members to have musical instruments 
 in their houses, such as organs or a fiddle, for their amuse- 
 ment, or for the amusement of the young people, and to 
 play on them on the Lo.rd's-day, after they return from 
 worship? Answer: We think it unauthorized by the gos- 
 pel, and clearly opposed to the order of the old brethren, 
 and the doctrine of self-denial, and not calculated to pro- 
 mote vital Christianity. 
 
 Art. 16. Will this district-meeting petition the Annual 
 Meeting to grant the right to districts, at their meetings, 
 to appoint, if necessary, committees to investigate and set- 
 tle difficulties that may exist within the bounds of the dis- 
 trict, and such selections to be made of brethren residing 
 
384 MINUTES OF 
 
 ■within the limits of the district in which such difficulties 
 may exist, except in cases in which a majority of the 
 churches composing a district are involved? Answer: "We 
 think it best to make no change from our present practice 
 in selecting committees. 
 
 Art. 17. Since the district-meeting of middle Indiana,, 
 last year, had under consideration the orphan's home, or a 
 home for orphan children, and expressed itself favorable, 
 but laid it over for further, consideration, will not this meet- 
 ing take into consideration the propriety of erecting a home 
 for orphan children, and members who are a church charge : 
 Answer: This Annual Meeting does not see the propriety 
 of adopting such measures at present, but if the middle- 
 district of Indiana desires to do so, we will not oppose it.. 
 
 Art. 18. Is it right to put a brother into the office to 
 serve as deacon or minister that does not conform to the- 
 order of the church, or allow them to serve in any church 
 business at district or Yearly Meetings ? And would it not 
 be best for brethren that officiate where an election is going 
 on to instruct the church not to give their voice to any 
 that do not conform to the order of the church ? Answer : 
 We advise brethren to be very careful in giving the breth- 
 ren power or office who will not conform to the order. 
 
 Art. 19. "What is to be done in case one of the members 
 of the church pleads guilty in the act of fornication, is it 
 the duty of the housekeeper of said church to take the 
 voice of every member present, whether such an one is 
 only to be excommunicated, or put in avoidance, or is it 
 the duty for such housekeeper to put such a member into 
 avoidance at once, according to I. Cor. v ? Answer : "We 
 consider that an elder has no right to either expel a mem- 
 ber from the church, or to put him in avoidance, without 
 the counsel, of the church. 
 
 Art. 20. Do the brethren not think it proper to exert 
 their influence against the admission into the church of the 
 new hymn-book with notes? Answer: "We advise all dis- • 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 885 
 
 tricts of churches to keep them out of the church in pub- 
 lic worship. 
 
 Art. 21. Inasmuch as ofttimes the innocent party must 
 call for a committee and hear all expenses, would it not be 
 more just for the committee to decide- who is to pay the 
 expenses ? Answer : We think the committee is to decide. 
 
 Art. 22. A man who was living in adultery, after mak- 
 ing a full statement of his standing to the brethren, was 
 received into the church and afterward received a letter of 
 full membership from said church and moved into another 
 district of the church, and this church rejected him by the 
 decision of the Annual Meeting of 1850, Art. 12 ; would 
 it be according to gospel, and decisions of the Annual 
 Meeting, for the brethren that received him into the church 
 to make acknowledgment to the man also, or only to the 
 church ? Answer : We consider that the brethren who re- 
 ceived him should make acknowledgment to the church,, 
 and also to the man, if he shall ask it, and give him area- 
 son for receiving him. 
 
 Art. 23. Inasmuch as Art. 11, of 1872, is not heeded, 
 will not the Annual Meeting devise some plan to have it 
 enforced throughout the whole brotherhood? Answer: 
 In case a church permits its members to take illegal inter- 
 est in opposition to the decision of the Annual Meeting of 
 1872, Art. 11, the aggrieved members may apply to the 
 Annual Meeting for a committee. 
 
 Art. 24. Inasmuch as there are constant additions to the 
 church and to the ministry of young brethren who are de- 
 sirous to learn the proceedings of our Annual Meetino-g 
 would it not be advisable to publish, in pamphlet form, all 
 the minutes of Annual Meetings since the last date of those 
 contained in the Encyclopedia, including also those not 
 published in this Encyclopedia, previous to said date, and 
 have said pamphlet arranged so as to admit subsequent 
 minutes. Answer: We think it best to defer this ques- 
 tion. 
 
 25 
 
386 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 25. Is it right for the brethren to solemnize mar- 
 riages in cases where parties are divorced and second parties 
 yet living? Answer: No. 
 
 Art. 26. Inasmuch as there are differences of opinion 
 among the brethren as to the nature of offenses that should 
 be settled between the parties immediately concerned, or 
 that may be brought directly to the church, it is desired 
 that this meeting define this subject more clearly, so as to 
 bring about more unanimity of opinion and action. An- 
 swer : All offenses that are strictly against a brother or 
 sister should be settled according to Matt, xviii., but such 
 as are of a general nature, affecting the whole body, said 
 body must be concerned in settling of its own accounts. 
 In case a brother neglects or refuses to go according to 
 Matt, xviil, then the church should send brethren to in- 
 vestigate, and report to the church as directed in Matt. 
 XVIII. 
 
 Art. 27. Is it according to the gospel for council districts 
 to -select brethren from among their ministers and send 
 them to preach the gospel in places where there are no 
 ministering brethren, and where people desire the brethren 
 to preach, and to pay the traveling expenses of such breth- 
 ren ? Answer: It is according to the gospel, and the deci- 
 sions of the Annual Meeting? (See Minutes of 1868, 
 iArt.21.) 
 
 Art. 28. Requests for committees to visit churches to 
 settle difficulties, and which were granted: 1. Inasmuch as 
 the elder of the Spring Creek Church, in Lebanon County, 
 Pennsylvania, called for assistance to settle difficulties in 
 said church, we grant them the following committee : D. 
 Oerlach, C. Bombarger, and Samuel Harley, of Ephrata. 
 .2. A request from the Upper Deer Creek Church, Cass 
 County, Indiana. The request was granted, and the fol- 
 lowing brethren were selected : Joseph McCarty, John E. 
 Shively, and Gotleib Keller. 3. A request for a committee 
 to go to Indian Creek Church, Montgomery County, Penn- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 387 
 
 sylvania. The request was granted, and the following 
 brethren were appointed : Moses Miller, D. P. Sayler, Dan- 
 iel Keller, J. G. Glock, and Jacob Price. 4. A committee 
 to Salarnony and Antioch churches, Huntington County'. 
 Indiana, consisting of H. D. Davy, Daniel Brower, and 
 John Wise. 5. A request for a committee to go to Astoria 
 Church, Pulton County, Illinois. The request was granted, 
 and the following brethren were appointed : II. D. Davy, 
 R. II. Miller, John Metzger, and E. Eby. 6. A request 
 from the Yellow Creek Church, Bedford County, Pennsyl- 
 vania. Request granted, and the following brethren were 
 appointed : Isaac Myers, Jacob Price, and J. G. Glock. 7. 
 A request from the Black River congregation, Van Buren 
 County, Michigan, for a committee. The request was 
 granted, and the following brethren were appointed: Jacob 
 Berkey, H. D. Davy, and D. B. Sturgis. 8. A request from 
 the Waterloo Church to settle difficulties. The request 
 was granted, and the following brethreu were appointed: 
 Henry Strickler, Peter Forney, A. Stamy, and Thomas 
 Snyder. 
 
 Art. 29. The request for the Annual Meeting in southern 
 Illinois, in 1874, was renewed and granted. Consequently, 
 the next Annual Meeting, the Lord willing, will be held in 
 Macoupin County, Illinois, at the house of Bro. Joseph 
 Filbrun, on the railroad from Chicago to Springfield and 
 St. Louis, and between Virden and Girard. 
 
 The following brethren were appointed to correspond 
 with the railroad companies to obtain half-fare rates for 
 going to the meeting: Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, D.*P. 
 Sayler ; Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago, and Pittsburgh, 
 Cincinnati & St. Louis Railroad, II. D. Davy; Ohio & Mis- 
 sissippi, John Beeghly; Chesapeake & Ohio, J. S. Flory ; 
 Pennsylvania Central, II. R. Holsinger. Further informa- 
 tion will be given in due time. 
 
 A resolution was passed, thanking the railroad compa- 
 
388 MINUTES OF 
 
 nies that had granted excursion rates to persons attending 
 the meeting. After singing, exhortation, and prayer, the 
 meeting closed. 
 
 Standing committee and officers: Henry Garst, B. F. 
 Moornaw, S. Garver, M. Cossner, D. P. Sayler, D. Long,. 
 David Gerlach, Jacob Price, John Wise, H. D. Davy, John 
 Brillhart, Jacob Garver, D. B. Sturgis, John Baker, Joseph 
 McCart}', E. Eb}', John Metzger, Henry Strickler, R. Bad- 
 ger. C. Harader, and J. Quinter. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1874. 
 
 The standing committee met on Monday and organized. 
 On Tuesday morning the meeting was opened in the 
 usual manner, by devotional exercises, and the reading of 
 the fifteenth chapter of Acts. The delegates then, from 
 the different districts, as they were called, presented the- 
 queries committed to them, and they were considered in 
 the fear of the Lord, and answered as herein stated : 
 
 Article 1. As Art. 6, of the Annual Meeting of 1873, 
 allows only the publishing of a "synopsis of the reasons- 
 given as a basis for decision, but no names of speakers," 
 will not this Annual Meeting allow the publishing of a full 
 report of the proceedings of the Annual Meeting, together 
 with the names of the speakers? Answer: We make no 
 change. 
 
 Art. 2. Inasmuch as the public mind is awakened on the 
 subject of peace, both among nations and societies, should 
 not the church at large take notice of "the signs of the 
 times," and teach more earnestly at this time this cardinal 
 doctrine of Christ and the church? Answer: We think 
 the church should do so. 
 
 Art. 3. The eastern district of Maryland humbly asks 
 the Annual Meeting to pass Art. 24, of the minutes of 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 389 
 
 1873, and appoint a committee to attend to said business. 
 Answer : The request is granted. 
 
 Art. 4. A brother, holding the office of a deacon in the 
 •church, and is nominated for the office of county commis- 
 sioner, and accepts of the nomination, the church then 
 takes his office from him. Does the coming district and 
 Annual Meetings decide and determine that the gospel 
 also demands and requires that the church deprive the 
 brother from the privilege of communing, or, in other 
 words, of partaking of the emblems of the broken body 
 of the Lord? If so, let the gospel authority be produced. 
 Answer: The church is justified, according to the gospel, 
 -and the order of the brethren, in prohibiting such a brother 
 from the communion ; and any brother who will contend 
 publicly or privately, that it is not wrong for a Christian 
 to hold the office of county commissioner should be ad- 
 monished in love to do so no more, and if he does, the 
 church should deal with him according to Matt. xvur. 
 (See Romans xvi. 7, 18 ; II. Thess. in. 14, 15 ; Matt. vi. 24; 
 Brethren's Encyclopedia, page 23 ; Minutes of 1778 and 
 1779 ; and first page, Minutes of 1797 ; also page 110, Min- 
 utes of 1822, Art. 6 ; also Minutes of 1861, Art. 3.) 
 
 Art. 5. Since it is fashionable for the world to wear the 
 mustache, the brethren are adopting it and claim for it 
 liberty of conscience, saying that it is good for the eyes, 
 are brethren compelled to salute such if they can not do it 
 without doing violence to their conscience? Answer: 
 Brethren should never wear a mustache only, or fashion- 
 able beard, according to the fashion of the world ; and if 
 they do, they will fall into the council of the church. 
 
 Art. 6. Inasmuch as the answer to Art. 21, of the min- 
 utes of 1872, in reference to brethren engaging in the bank- 
 ing business is considered indefinite, and as some take ad- 
 vantage of this circumstance and do engage in the business, 
 will not this district-meeting request the Annual'Meeting 
 to reconsider said query, and give a more positive answer? 
 
390 MINUTES OF 
 
 AVe agree to ask the Annual Meeting for a reconsideration 
 of said query. Answer : We, according to the above re- 
 quest, are willing to reconsider the query alluded to ; but 
 we do not see our way clear to make any decision more 
 positive than we have already made. But we would ad- 
 monish brethren to be very careful in engaging in all kinds 
 of business, and especially in business done by incorporated 
 bodies, such as railroads and banking companies, since by 
 so doing they may be brought into dangerous associations 
 with ungodly men. 
 
 Art. 7. This district-meeting petitions the Annual Meet- 
 ing to grant to district-meetings the privilege of sending 
 to the Annual Meeting queries and petitions that may 
 originate during their sessions. Answer : Considered best 
 not to grant the right to do so. 
 
 Art. 8. Would it not be proper for the Annual Meeting 
 to adopt a form, to be used by the elders installing a 
 brother into the first and second degrees of the ministry,, 
 so that all ministers would be installed in office by a uni- 
 form charge, as is done in regard to installing deacons? 
 Art. 4, in the minutes of 1835. Answer: The elder in- 
 stalling a brother into the first degree of the ministry, 
 should give the following charge: "The duties of the 
 brother elected, while in the first degree of the ministry, 
 are not very onerous. The church authorizes him to ex- 
 hort and to preach as an assistant to the elder and older 
 ministers, as they may give him liberty to do. It is his 
 duty, however, faithfully to attend the meetings r of the 
 church, and when liberty is given, to exhort or preach, and 
 do it humbly, and willingly, and faithfully, as the Lord 
 will afford him grace to do. But should it happen that 
 none of the older ministering brethren should come to the 
 regular appointment, then it will be his duty, and he is 
 hereby authorized, to conduct the meeting according to the 
 usual order of the brethren, to the best of his ability, and 
 to announce the regular appointments; but he has no au- 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 391 
 
 thority to make or announce any appointments on his own 
 or private account. In case, however, he is called to preach 
 on a funeral occasion, he is at liberty, and is hereby author- 
 ized, to go and conduct the services according to the usual 
 order of the brethren. And it is thought good that the 
 elder and older ministering brethren should be liberal in 
 giving him liberty to preach, and not always confine him 
 to the closing services, or he may not soon learn how to be 
 a 'workman approved of God, that needs not to be 
 ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.' ' : The 
 brother's name should now be announced, and he should 
 be called to come forward, and asked, before all, to promise 
 to conform to the general order of the brotherhood in dress 
 and all matters of non-conformity to the world, whether 
 he accepts the position into which the church purposes to 
 place him, and whether he will so submit himself; and if 
 he answers in the affirmative, the brethren will receive him 
 with the right hand of fellowship and kiss of charity, and 
 the sisters with the right hand of fellowship only. And 
 to advance a brother into the second degree of the minis- 
 try, the elder giving the charge, may say: "Dear brother 
 [calling his name], the church having called you into the 
 first degree of the ministry, and on trial has confidence in 
 your fidelity and integrity, now proposes to advance you 
 into the second degree, and thereby your labors will be in- 
 creased and your duties will become more onerous, and 
 will require a greater sacrifice on your part. The church 
 now authorizes you to appoint meetings for preaching, ac- 
 cording to the general order of the brethren, to administer 
 the ordinance of baptism, and, in the absence of an elder,, 
 to take the counsel of the church on the admission of au 
 applicant for baptism, to serve the communion in the ab- 
 sence of an elder, or at his or their request, if present, to 
 solemnize the right of marriage according to the laws of 
 the state and the usages of the church. In brief, to per- 
 form all the duties of an ordained elder, excepting you 
 
392 MINUTES OF 
 
 have no authority to install officers in the church, neither 
 by giving a charge, as I am now doing, nor by laying on 
 hands in ordaining a brother into the full degree of the 
 ministry. You have also no authority to preside in the 
 council-meetings of the church in which official members 
 of the church are to be dealt with. You have no authority 
 to go into the acknowledged territory of any organized 
 church to make appointments for preaching, unless called 
 by the elder or council of said church. It is an assump- 
 tion of authority for an ordained elder to do so. But let 
 it be understood that while the church now invests you 
 with these rights and privileges, she still holds you to the 
 apostolical injunction: 'Y T e younger, submit yourselves 
 unto the elder; yea, all of you be subject one to another, 
 and be clothed with humility ; for God resisteth the proud, 
 and giveth grace to the humble' (I. Peter v. 5), and will 
 hold you amenable to her councils; and if you manifest an 
 arbitrary self-will and domineering spirit, the same author- 
 ity which now gives you these privileges, will, if need re- 
 quires it, suspend yon, and take from you all the authority 
 she now gives you." The brother should rise on his feet, 
 and be asked to promise to conform to the general order 
 of the brotherhood in dress and all matters of non-con- 
 formity to the world, and whether he accepts this position, 
 and whether he will submit himself; and if he answers in 
 the affirmative, the church should again receive him, as at 
 first, with hand and kiss. 
 
 Art. 9. Is it wrong for brethren to organize a class for 
 singing purposes, and have it taught in their meeting- 
 houses, if it is done in good order? Answer: It i3 not 
 wrong, if the church is willing. 
 
 Art. 10. Inasmuch as the brethren, when assembled in 
 Annual Council in the year 1881, decided it not to be ad- 
 visable for a brother to have his son educated in a college; 
 "inasmuch, "they say, "as experience has taught us that 
 such very seldom will come back afterward to the humble 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 393 
 
 ways of the Lord," what will this district-meeting and our 
 Aunual Meeting say when a combination of brethren are 
 trying to get up a high school for the more thorough edu- 
 cation of the brethren's children, and term it the "Breth- 
 ren's School?" Auswer: Referred to the minutes of the 
 Annual Meeting of 1858, Art. 51. But the brethren shall 
 not call the school the "Brethren's School," or by any 
 other name that would involve the general brotherhood. 
 
 Art. 11. Will the Annual Meeting state what relations 
 are meant by " nearest relations," in the minutes of the 
 Annual Meeting of 1838, Art. 8? Answer: By "nearest 
 relations," is meant father and mother, brother and sister, 
 son and daughter, and husband or wife of the accused. 
 
 Art. 12. Would it not be better, and nearer the gospel 
 and our profession, to have no stand and platform elevated 
 at the place of holding our Annual Meeting, for the com- 
 mittee brethren and others of the meeting to sit and stand 
 upon during the time of council? Answer: It is best to 
 have no stand or platform in the Annual Council. 
 
 Art. 1 3. The district-meeting of the middle district of 
 Iowa, does sincerely ask the Annual Meeting of 1874 to 
 prayerfully consider the propriety of making a change in 
 the manner of holding our Annual Meeting. Answer: 
 We do not consider it necessary to make any further change 
 from the plan adopted by the Annual Meeting of 1868, than 
 what has been already made; but we are deeply impressed, 
 from our experience with the present meeting, of the pro- 
 priety of adhering strictly to the order established at the 
 Annual Meeting above referred to, and we urge upon the 
 churches holding the Annual Meeting, to hold it according 
 to the order alluded to. And we want it further under- 
 stood, that there shall be no provisions made for boarding 
 at the meeting until Monday, the day before the commence- 
 ment of the council. 
 
 Art. 14. Inasmuch as many brethren and sisters are ag- 
 grieved at the statements made by Bro. D. P. Sayler, in the 
 
394 MINUTES OF 
 
 "Gospel Visitor/' Vol. 22, No. 10, page 293, lirst column, 
 commencing eighteen lines from the top, should he not 
 make a public acknowledgment? Answer: As Bro. Say- 
 ler's views of the passage of Scripture, in relation to which 
 the objectionable sentiments were advanced, was given as 
 his individual sentiment, and not the sentiment of the 
 brotherhood; and as the church has not expressed its view 
 of the passage, we think it premature to ask him to make 
 public satisfaction. 
 
 Art. 15. "Will this district-meeting ask the Annual Meet- 
 ing to decide that when a committee is sent by the Annual 
 Meeting into any district to settle difficulties, and elders or 
 other members are involved, more or less, in the trouble to 
 be settled, and who live in adjoining or other districts, that 
 it may have the right to call such into the district into 
 which the committee is called, and there settle the diffi- 
 culties of those called? Or, should the committee go into 
 the district and there hear and decide the case, that a 
 final settlement of the trouble may be effected ? Answer: 
 All committees may have the power asked for in the query, 
 to call for such persons as are alluded to. 
 
 Art. 16. Inasmuch as the Savior says, "In secret have I 
 said nothing," will the Annual Meeting decide that the 
 churches may ask the applicant for baptism all the ques- 
 tions in the presence of the whole congregation ? Answer : 
 We think it best to make no general change from the order 
 given in the minutes of 1848; neither do we think it nec- 
 essary to make any change to meet the case of the question, 
 since in the order of 1848, above alluded to, it is not said 
 whether the questions shall be put publicly or privately, 
 and so in particular cases it may be done publicly. But 
 when there is no necessity of doing otherwise, let the ques- 
 tions, after the examination, be put to the candidate before 
 the church alone, as is the general practice of the brother- 
 'hood. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 395 
 
 Art. 17. Inasmuch as the Annual Meeting is favorable 
 to the holding of protracted meetings, what right have the 
 bishops and householders of certain districts of churches 
 to limit such meetings to a series not exceeding three in 
 number? Answer: They have the right, if the meetings 
 are not conducted in the order of the gospel and of the 
 church. 
 
 Art. 18. Since the Macedonian call is heard from many 
 places over the land, and as the gospel says, "go," and as 
 the Annual Meeting of 1868 has formed a plan, will not 
 this Annual Meeting of 1874 perfect the plan and carry it 
 into effect ? Answer : We can not see how we can make 
 a more perfect plan than the one referred to in the query, 
 but we request the churches having such calls to make ar- 
 rangements to carry out said plan. 
 
 Art. 19. Will not this district-meeting petition the An- 
 nual Meeting of 1874 to reconsider Art. 4, of the minutes 
 of the Annual Meeting of 1873 ? Answer : Yes, and have 
 the answer to read as follows : "A member should be tried 
 in the church where his membership is, except where a 
 member commits an offense in his church and changes his 
 membership before it is settled ; he shall then go back to 
 the church he left and be tried there." Confirmed by the 
 Annual Meeting upon a reconsideration of the query. 
 
 Art. 20. If a church is dissatisfied with members that 
 go to Sunday-school conventions, and pass a decision that 
 members shall "not go to such places, and if they do go, 
 that they must make an acknowledgment for the same, 
 can the church enforce such decision without the sanction 
 of the Annual Meeting? Answer: We think it has the 
 power. 
 
 Art. 21. As there is not a uniformity of practice among 
 the brethren in reference to saluting our colored members, 
 will not the brethren in Annual Council give us a decision 
 that will enable us to be one in practice, and not be re- 
 
396 MINUTES OF 
 
 specters of persons? Answer: We think it best to make 
 no change in this matter. 
 
 Art. 22. Is it consistent with the gospel, or the order of 
 the brethren, to join the farmer's club, and even act as offi- 
 cers in the same ? Answer : Not consistent with the sos- 
 pel to unite with any organized body of the world, and 
 any member that will not abandon it, after being admon- 
 ished so to do, shall be dealt with according to Matt, xviii. 
 
 Art. 23. Will this Annual Meeting purchase the tent 
 now in use by the brotherhood in holding the present meet- 
 ing? Answer: Considered not advisable to do so. 
 
 Art. 24. Would it be right to grant an expelled preacher, 
 who violated the counsel of the church, and still goes on 
 preaching, a committee, when all the members are opposed 
 to a committee, and if the church would grant a commit- 
 tee, under existing circumstances, and such a preacher 
 would be found guilty, would it be right for said brethren and 
 sisters to pay the expenses? Answer: No, 'and such 
 preacher shall be required to provide a sufficient amount 
 to pay such expenses before a committee serve. 
 
 Art. 25. Whereas, the Annual Meeting of 1873, Art. 20, 
 advises all the churches to keep the brethren's tune and 
 hymn-book out of the churches in time of public worship, 
 this district-council humbly asks the Annual Meeting of 
 1874 to reconsider the said query, and allow district 
 churches, that wish to do so, to use them even in public 
 worship. Answer: This Annual Meeting thinks it best, 
 upon the reconsideration of said query, to let this subject 
 remain as it was decided at the last Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 26. Inasmuch as the use of musical instruments 
 among us has caused considerable trouble, and as decisions 
 of Annual Meetings are differently construed, will this 
 Annual Meeting, therefore, give us such a decision that 
 will fully authorize the different branches of the church to 
 keep them out of the brotherhood, and get those out that 
 are already among us? Answer: The decision of the last 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF TIIE BRETHREN. 397 
 
 Annual Meeting upon the subject of musical instruments 
 is readopted. 
 
 Art. 27. We desire the reconsideration of Art. 14, of 
 the last Annual Meeting. The query was, whether the 
 committee should not have the right to say who should pay 
 the expenses of called committees, the one that called them, 
 or the church in which the difficulty existed; and* it was 
 decided that the committee should have that authority. 
 Answer: We reaffirm the decision of the Annual Meeting 
 of last year in the reconsideration of said query. 
 
 Call for committees: 1. A request for a committee to 
 visit the White Oak Church, Brush Creek Church, Clear 
 Creek Church, and Fall Creek Church, in Highland and 
 Adams counties, Ohio. The following brethren were ap- 
 pointed : II. D. Davy, Samuel Mohler, J. Wise, R. H. Mil- 
 ler, and D. Brower. 2. Request for a committee to visit 
 the Newton Church, in Miami Count} T , Ohio. The follow- 
 ing committee were appointed: II. IT. Miller, J. Wise, D. 
 Brower, Jos. N. Kauffman, and Daniel Bowman. 3. Re- 
 quest for a committee to visit the church in Botetourt 
 County, Virginia. The following brethren were appointed: 
 D. P. Sayler, II. D. Davy, D. Long, C. G. Lint, and M. 
 Miller. 4. Request for a committee to visit the Washing- 
 ton Creek Church, Douglass County, Kansas. The follow- 
 ing brethren were appointed : John Hershey, John Forney, 
 and Jesse Studebaker. 5. Request for a committee to visit 
 the Deer Creek Church, Indiana. The following brethren 
 were appointed: R. II. Miller, Jesse Meyers, and Jacob 
 Berkey. 6. Request for a committee to visit the Xorth 
 Manchester Church, Indiana. The following brethren 
 were appointed : II. D. Davy, R. II. Miller, John Wise, D. 
 Brower, and D. B. Sturgis. 7. The following brethren 
 form the committee sent to California: II. D. Davy, D. P. 
 Sayler, and B. F. Moomaw. 8. The following brethren 
 form the committee to publish the minutes: IT. D. Davy 
 and J. Quinter. 9. Request for a committee to go to St. 
 
398 MINUTES OF 
 
 Joseph County, Indiana. The following brethren were ap- 
 pointed : If. D. Davy, 11. H. Miller, and J. Metzger. 10. 
 Request for a committee to visit the Vermillion Church, in 
 Livingston County, Illinois. The following brethren were 
 appointed : Jos. Hendricks, Enoch Eby,_and D. Fry. 11. 
 Request for a committee to visit the Indian Creek Church, 
 in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. The following 
 brethren were appointed : II. D, Davy, D. Long, D. Keller, 
 D. Garlach, and C. Gr. Lint. 
 
 The following is the quota ot each state district to de- 
 fray the expenses of the committee to California: Tennes- 
 see, $15; Virginia, first district, $80, second district, $45, 
 third district, $25; Maryland, eastern district, $30, western 
 district, $30; Pennsylvania, eastern district, $40, middle 
 district, $35, western district, $40 ; Ohio, northeastern dis- 
 trict, $40, northwestern district, $30, southwestern district, 
 $50 ; Indiana, northern district, $40, middle district, $40, 
 southern district, $40 ; Illinois, northern district, $25; Iowa, 
 northern district, $10, middle district, $10, southern dis- 
 trict, $5; Missouri, northern district, $5, southern district, 
 $10; Nebraska, $5; Kansas, $5 ; Michigan, $5. The col- 
 lections in Pennsylvania and Maryland will be remitted to 
 D. P. Sayler ; those in Virginia and Tennessee to B. F. 
 Moomaw ; those in the western states to H. D. Davy. The 
 money should be collected and remitted by the first of Sep- 
 tember 
 
 Request for the Annual Meeting : There being no request 
 for the Annual Meeting in 1875, and there being a request 
 from the Miami- Valley Ohio, for the meeting in 1876, it is 
 expected that the next Annual Meeting will be in the 
 Miami Valley, Ohio. The announcement will be made in 
 due time. 
 
 The meeting closed by singing and prayer, the impression 
 prevailing that we had a pleasant meeting, and that the 
 Lord was with us. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 399 
 
 Standing committee and officers: Henry Swadley, B. F. 
 Moomaw, Martin Costner, D. P. Sayler, D. Long, D. Gar- 
 lach, J. Meyers, J. Quinter, Jacob Garver, J. P. Ebersole, 
 II. D. Davy, J. Lichty, George Long, D. B. Sturgis, Jacob 
 Flory, R. H. Miller, D. Rittenhouse, Rufus Gish, David 
 Wolf, E. K. Beeghly, C. Long. C. Harader, G. Witwer, J. 
 Hershey, Jesse Studebaker, Enoch Eby. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1875. 
 
 On Monday, May 17th, the standing committee met and 
 organized, by appointing H. D. Davy moderator, J. Quinter 
 writing clerk, Enoch Eby, reading clerk, and J. W. Brum- 
 baugh, doorkeeper. 
 
 On Tuesday morning the public council was opened by 
 devotional exercises, and the reading of the fifteenth chap- 
 ter of Acts. 
 
 The following queries were then presented, and acted 
 upon with results as stated : 
 
 Article 1. Should there not be some change made in the 
 manner of holding our Annual Meetings? Answer: With 
 regard to the expense of the meeting, we suggest, that as 
 the rule with us is that the said meeting be held alternately 
 east and west of the Ohio River, that, therefore, the expenses 
 of the said Annual Meeting be defrayed by the respective 
 divisions where held, upon some equitable mode, the con- 
 gregation in which the meeting is held not to be required 
 to contribute to said expense in money, the trouble incident 
 to such a meeting to be considered their full portion of con- 
 tribution. 
 
 The Annual Meeting, instead of adopting the aDOve an- 
 swer from the district-meeting, gave the following : We 
 think it best to make no such change as asked for in the 
 query at present. 
 
400 .MINUTES OP 
 
 Art. 2. Is it according to the gospel for brethren to make 
 a pool in a meeting-house, for the purpose of baptizing? 
 Answer: As we have no authority in the Scriptures for 
 baptizing in the house, we consider it wrong to do so. 
 
 Art. 3. Is it considered according to the gospel for a 
 church, at communion, to use the unfermented juice of 
 grapes in place of wine? Answer: We think it may be left 
 optional to a church to do so, if the members are agreed. 
 
 Art. 4. This congregation petitions the district-meeting 
 to petition the Annual Meeting for an amendment to the 
 plan of holding the Annual Meeting, and proposes the fol- 
 lowing plan: Let each district-meeting send one delegate 
 to form the standing committee, and each church to have 
 the privilege of sending one or two delegates as a home 
 representation, and these, in connection with the standing 
 committee, to form the official body for the transaction of 
 all business presented to the meeting for action. Answer: 
 We think it best not to make the proposed change. 
 
 Art. 5. Is it right for the standing committee to change 
 the import of any query addressed to the Annual Meeting? 
 Answer: It is not right to do so. 
 
 Art. 6. When members, who are dependent on the 
 church, move from one state to another, expecting to be 
 maintained by their children, and fail, which church's duty 
 is it to maintain them? Answer: This meeting thinks it 
 is the duty of the church from which they moved to main- 
 tain them. 
 
 Art. 7. Whereas, the Annual Meeting of 1874, as per 
 Art. 8, gave the charges as given to ministers in the first 
 and second degrees, will not this district-meeting ask the 
 Annual Meeting to give, also, the charges and duties as 
 given to ordained elders and deacons, and have the charges 
 of 1874 reprinted with these, so that all the officers may 
 have their duties set forth by the Annual Meeting, as un- 
 derstood by the church from the Scriptures? Answer: 
 Deferred until the next Annual Meeting. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 401 
 
 Art. 8. Inasmuch as there are queries before this meet- 
 ing, both in favor of and against a full report of the pro- 
 ceedings of this meeting, and as there seems to be a diffi- 
 culty in answering these questions with the unanimity de- 
 sirable, we think it best to defer the subject until the next 
 Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 9. Is it right for a brother to hold the office of post- 
 master? Answer: We know of no reason why he should 
 not. 
 
 Art. 10. Should not the delegate accompanying the 
 member of the standing committee from each district, be 
 admitted in with the standing committee of the Annual 
 Meeting, during the examination of the business from the 
 district which he represents? Answer: We conclude to. 
 make no change at the present. 
 
 Art. 11. Are the delegates sent by the district-meeting 
 to the Annual Meeting to represent .the sentiments of the 
 district which sends them, or have they the privilege to 
 represent their own sentiments? Answer: They should 
 represent the sentiments of their district. 
 
 Art. 12. Whereas, it is not considered to be according 
 to the Scriptures to keep our poor in the county poor- 
 house, is not the church under obligations to build a house 
 to keep our poor in, providing the brethren petition the 
 legislature to be exempt from paying our poor tax into the 
 county treasury? Answer: We refer this back as a mat- 
 ter of purely local interest. 
 
 Art. 13. Will this district-meeting ask the Annual Meet- 
 ing to adopt suitable measures to enable the church to co- 
 operate actively with the peace association of America? 
 Answer: Our church itself beiug a peace association, we 
 need not, as a body, co-operate with others, but we may, 
 as individuals, give our influence in favor of peace. 
 
 Art. 14. Whereas, there are many committees called for 
 every year, would it not be advisable for the standing com- 
 mittee of the Annual Meeting to be careful, and not to se- 
 26 
 
402 MINUTES OF 
 
 «> 
 
 lect too many from their own body, as it might appear to 
 some as if they would like to do all the business them- 
 selves? Answer: We advise as Paul does, when he says: 
 "Observe these things without preferring one before an- 
 other, doing nothing by partiality." 
 
 Art. 15. The church of Luncy's Creek asks our district 
 to petition the Annual Meeting to change the name of our 
 district from that of the " Third District of Virginia," to 
 that of the " District of West Virginia," so that the publica- 
 tion of our business may be understood without mistake. 
 Answer : The petition was granted. 
 
 Art. 16. Will not this district-meeting petition the An- 
 nual Meeting to modify or change a small portion of the 
 answer to Art. 8, of 1874, where it says : " You have no au- 
 thority to go into acknowledged territory of any organized 
 church to make appointments for preaching, unless called 
 by the elder or council of said church. It is an assumption 
 of authority for an ordained elder to do so," and not limit 
 them ; for the Savior says : " Go ye into all the world, and 
 preach the gospel to every creature." Mark xvi. 15. An- 
 swer: We know of no reason why we should make any 
 change, and therefore make none. 
 
 Art 17. Why is it the custom of the brethren to hold 
 their church council-meetings privately, while they hold 
 their district and Annual Meetings publicly? Answer: 
 Because the home councils are of a private character, ac- 
 cording to Matt, xviii., while the business of the district 
 and Annual Meetings is of a general character. 
 
 Art. 18. Inasmuch as the Annual Meeting has decided 
 that it is inconsistent for brethren that will not conform tp 
 the order of the church to preach, are not the elders neglect- 
 inga duty in suffering such to go on, and through their influ- 
 ence whole churches become out of order? And while the 
 Annual Council has also decided that it is the duty of the ad- 
 joining elders to set such ministers and churches in order, 
 will not this district-meeting and the Annual Meeting - urge 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 403 
 
 the brethren to see that the general order of the brethren 
 is more fully carried out? Answer: The southern district 
 of Ohio urges the elders to do so, and this Annual Meeting 
 does the same. 
 
 Art. 19. How is it considered for district-meetings to 
 publish their proceedings, when the Annual Meeting, in 
 1866, has distinctly decided that it shall not be done? 
 Answer : The districts should not publish their proceedings. 
 
 Art. 20. Inasmuch as the church has manifested a little 
 of the missionary spirit during last year, in sending breth- 
 ren to the State of Kentucky, we respectfully petition that 
 brethren be sent to the northern part of Alabama and 
 Tennessee adjoining, to build up and to comfort the body 
 of brethren gathered together a few years since under the 
 labors of A. J. Hixson. The number of members was 
 about twenty-five. Answer : In regard to the petition for 
 brethren to visit and preach in Alabama, we would say, we 
 favor the idea, and appoint the following brethren as a 
 committee to attend to the case: B. F. Moomaw, S.Z.- 
 Sharp, and II. Garst 
 
 Art. 21. What is the difference between a minister whose 
 office is taken from him, and one that is silenced? and 
 where shall such take their seats? Answer: Inasmuch as 
 we fail to comprehend any material difference between the 
 phrase, "his office taken from him," or "one that is 
 silenced," we therefore make no difference; and in either 
 case they shall take their seat with the laity. 
 
 Art. 22. Is it right, or according to the gospel, for breth- 
 ren to have their property insured ? Answer: We can not 
 see that it is wrong to do so, if done in a mutual way. 
 (See Art. 3, Minutes of 1864.) 
 
 Art. 23. We request this district and the Annual Meet- 
 ing to give us a more definite decision on the stand ques- 
 tion, so that the brethren may become more united in this 
 long-agitated question. The way matters are now, heaven 
 can not be pleased with us. While some go upon stands, 
 
404 MINUTES OF 
 
 others stay down. If God's law teaches us to go on stands 
 to preach, why not all go on them? And if it teaches us 
 to stay down, why not all stay down? Let us have the 
 gospel order in this as well as in all other matters. Let 
 God's law be the man of our counsel in all matters. An- 
 swer: We think we can give no more satisfactory answer 
 upon this subject than what we already have in the minutes 
 of our Annual Meeting, especially in that of Art. 23, of 
 the minutes of 1866. 
 
 Art. 24. As Christ never published himself, would it not 
 be better for the brethren traveling and preaching uot to 
 publish themselves, in stating how many sermons they 
 preached, and. how many persons they baptized; as much 
 as to say : " See what I have done ?" Answer : Not advis- 
 able to do so. 
 
 Art. 25. We request this meeting, and the Annual Meet- 
 ing, to agree to grant the power to the established districts 
 of the states to choose their committees to settle difficulties, 
 instead of the Annual Meeting, thereby saving expense 
 and much labor in brethren traveling east and west. Some- 
 times business must also lie over for six or eight months, 
 until brethren can get around. Answer : We can not con- 
 sistently grant the power asked for, without repealing for- 
 mer decisions of the Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 26. Is it consistent with the gospel, and the order 
 of the church, for the brethren to take part in the so-called 
 lyceum, debating or declaiming society, or for ministering 
 brethren to act as president, and thereby eutice other mem- 
 bers into the evil? Answer: We think it is unbecoming 
 a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ to do so ; and we would, 
 therefore, most earnestly admonish our brethren to abstain 
 from it. But should any of our brethren persist in taking 
 part in such societies, they should be dealt with as other 
 offenders, according to Matt, xviii. (See Rom. i. 29; I. 
 Cor. xin. 20; I. Tim. vi. 58]; see, also, decisions of Annual 
 Meetings.) 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 405 
 
 Art. 27. Since the Annual Meeting has. left it optional 
 with brethren whether or not to salute colored brethren 
 with the holy kiss, designing men are making capital of it 
 against us. To obviate this, let the Annual Meeting re- 
 consider that decision, and say that we make no difference 
 on account of race or color; and this district-meeting asks 
 the Annual Meeting to make no difference on account of 
 race or color. Answer : A\ r e grant the request, but should 
 have regard to the former minutes of Annual Meetings 
 upon the subject, and advise the brethren to bear with one 
 another. 
 
 Art. 28. If a member is disowned, and gets a committee 
 to investigate his case, and that committee justifies the 
 church in the course it has taken, has that committee the 
 right to reinstate that member without consulting the 
 church? Answer: JSTo. 
 
 Art. 29. Inasmuch as there exists a strong demand for 
 tracts advocating the faith and practice of the brethren, we 
 earnestly recommend a more united effort to carryforward 
 this work, and facilitate the publication and circulation of 
 works of this character, subject, before publication, to the 
 examination and approval of competent and well-estab- 
 lished brethren ; therefore, we earnestly recommend that 
 the brethren give this matter an earnest and prayerful con- 
 sideration. Approved by order of the district-meeting, 
 and confirmed by this Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 30. A member, obtaining a letter of membership, 
 moves into another church. Said church, knowing that 
 said member had a certificate of membership, therefore 
 fellowships said member for about one year. Said member 
 willingly neglects to hand in his letter of membership to 
 the church, and during his stay in the said church becomes 
 disobedient, causing much trouble, and moving away in 
 this condition, forfeits his word, disregards the advice and 
 good counsel of the Annual Meeting, and the judgment 
 of said church. .Now, has the church from which said 
 
406 MINUTES OF 
 
 member moved last, got the proper authority to disown or 
 disfellowship said member, if he continues disobedient or 
 stubborn in not hearing said church? Answer: The 
 church from which he obtained his letter should deal with 
 him. 
 
 Art. 31. The southern district of Missouri petitions and 
 entreats the Annual Meeting to restrict our editors in 
 publication of matter derogatory to or militating against 
 the advice, counsel, and decision, as given by our beloved 
 brethren, at our Annual Meetings, from time to time, such 
 as advocating high schools, salaried preachers, musical in- 
 struments, etc. Answer: "We caution our editors, and all 
 our brethren, from writing or publishing any thing against 
 the acknowledged doctrines of the church. 
 
 Art. 32. Is it understood that the decisions of the An- 
 nual Meeting, as heretofore given, against brethren serving 
 as jurors in the courts of our country, apply to serving as 
 grand jurors, whose duty is only to find a bill against the 
 party to be tried in law, or are they to apply only against 
 serving as a petit juror, whose duty is to find a verdict in 
 the trial? Answer : They are considered to apply to both 
 juries. (See Encyclopedia, pages 122, 123.) 
 
 Art. 33. How is it looked at by our fraternity for a min- 
 ister of ours to preach and debate publicly in favor of the 
 final restoration of all men? Answer: Brethren should 
 not do so. 
 
 Art. 34. Report of the committee to California: We, 
 the undersigned, a committee sent by the Annual Meeting 
 to set in order things that are wanting among the brethren 
 in California, met pursuant to appointment, agreed upon 
 by the elders and brethren residing here, at the house of 
 Bro. Michael Sissler, and after a season of devotion and 
 consultation as to the legality of the proceedings, Bro. 
 George Wolf, with a number of brethren, retired for private 
 consultation. They returning, the voice was taken to de- 
 cide whether or not the committee is received to mvestigate 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BREHTERN. 407 
 
 the difficulties existing, and they were accepted by a unani- 
 mous vote of the members present. We then proceeded as 
 
 follows : 
 
 First: To examine the reasons why certain members did 
 
 not hand in their letters to the church : 
 
 Reason 1st: That a committee of four brethren waited 
 on Elder Wolf, to try to effect a union, aud requested him 
 to appoint a church-meeting for that purpose, which he re- 
 fused to do, but said that if they would agree to hand in 
 their letters, he would call a church-meeting for that pur- 
 pose (no other), and if they would agree to be subject to 
 the established order of the church in California, and say 
 nothing about settled matters. 
 
 It being proved to our satisfaction that there was disor- 
 der in the church, and Elder Wolf refusing to call the 
 church together to investigate matters, we decide that he 
 erred in this, and that it was a- sufficient reason for with- 
 holding their letters. 
 
 Reason 2d : That there were two cases of adultery in the 
 church, and and that Elder Wolf justified them. It was 
 proved that a certain man named Whelock left his wife, 
 and that she was afterward married to another man by 
 Elder Wolf, her first husband (so far as known) still living, 
 and he not even charged with fornication, and the parties 
 so being married were held as members, but not allowed to 
 occupy the office of deacon. Elder Wolf, also, with the 
 counsel of eight members, baptized a woman by the name 
 of Cheatersty, while living with a man who had another 
 wife. Answer : We decide that both cases were absolutely 
 adulterous, and that Elder Wolf did wrong in baptizing in 
 the one case, and in celebrating the marriage in the other, 
 and we require an acknowledgment of him, and of the 
 eight members, also, that gave counsel in the case, and ex- 
 hort him and them to be more careful in the future. 
 
 Reason 3d : Elder Wolf also claims the Annual Meeting 
 to be legislative, and refuses to be subject to its counsel. 
 For the auswer, see Art. jSTo. 7. 
 
408 MINUTES OF 
 
 Reason 4th : Being asked if he would commune with 
 brethren when they wash feet in the double mode, said he 
 could not conscientiously do so. Answer : In view of the 
 position that Elder Wolf and his- adherents occupy, as set 
 forth in the allegation, that they will not wash feet in the 
 double mode, we therefore, in order to give those who differ 
 from them an opportunity to practice as their judgment 
 and conscience dictate, are compelled to organize a church 
 in California in the order of the general brotherhood, under 
 the care and oversight of Elders Isaac Hershey and Michael 
 Sissler, and ordain that the churches establish a line, and 
 divide themselves as seems best to them, as we are not ac- 
 quainted with the geography of the country as respects 
 their several localities. 
 
 Reason 5th : They do not practice the kiss between the 
 supper and the communion, nor read the Scriptures, nor 
 speak of the sufferings of .Christ, at that time, neither do 
 they close with prayer at the close of the services on such 
 occasions. Answer : We decide and exhort that they from 
 henceforth adopt the practice of the general brotherhood 
 in those things on such occasions. 
 
 Eeason 6th : E. L. Prather, a minister, said the cause of 
 the trouble here is, there are two parties of us ; we are the 
 Congregational party, the other the Annual Meeting party; 
 we are governed by the word of God, the others by the 
 elders of the Annual Meeting. He admits the charge, and 
 makes the following acknowledgment by his signature: 
 
 "Recpuired, that he acknowledge that his language, as 
 used in the charge, reflects seriously upon the Annual 
 Meeting, but as explained to mean congregational in a 
 limited sense, which is accepted, provided he now acknowl- 
 edges the supremacy of the Annual Meeting, and agrees 
 to respect its counsels and co-operate with the general 
 brotherhood, giving and taking counsel. 
 
 "Signed, E. L. Prather." 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 409 
 
 Reason 7th : Elders Wolf and Meyers stand charged for 
 writing hard expressions in the "Gospel Trumpet." 
 Charge sustained by the articles over their names; and we, 
 the committee, decide that the language in said articles, 
 when viewed literally, is very distasteful, and reflects seri- 
 ously upon the dignity of the Annual Meeting, and de- 
 mands an acknowledgment at the hands of the authors. 
 But as interpreted to mean congregational in a limited 
 sense, which is accepted, provided they now acknowledge 
 the supremacy of the Annual Meeting, and agree to respect 
 its counsels, and co-operate with the general brotherhood 
 in giving and in taking counsel, aud also to withdraw their 
 names aud influence from said "Gospel Trumpet." 
 
 Reason 8th : They will not indorse the action of the com- 
 mittee sent by the Annual Meeting to Missouri, in 1872, 
 but hold those denounced members in full fellowship. 
 This charge not sustained by the evidence. 
 
 lieason 9th : That the church in California is in a bad 
 state. Pride is tolerated too much. Even Elder Wolf has 
 departed from the order of the brotherhood in simplicity 
 of dress, and some sisters wearing hats, ribbons, veils, and 
 other superfluities. Answer : That there is a departure 
 from the order of the church in fashion and dress, is fully 
 sustained by the evid'ence, and that Elder Wolf has not 
 fully discharged his duty in suppressing and restraining 
 pride, is also manifest. We therefore admonish and exhort 
 him to exercise the functions of his office with the church, 
 in keeping order in this as well as other thiugs. 
 
 Reason 10th : That Elder Wolf received and fellowshiped 
 expelled members as brethren and officers in the church, 
 after being informed that they were expelled by letters 
 from the church from whence they came, disregarding the 
 letters, and received them because of their appearance, etc. 
 Elder AVolf explained that the complaint is true in part, 
 and that he was deceived by those men (Flory and Gibson) 
 in part, and that he received them as a matter of courtesy, 
 
410 MINUTES OF 
 
 and not as brethren. Answer: Considered by us, that as 
 these circumstances have transpired a long time since, and 
 have been before the church time and again, that we dis- 
 miss them with a brotherly admonition, that Bro. Wolf 
 erred in associating with these persons as he did, and ex- 
 hort him in the future to adhere to the scriptural injunc- 
 tion to hold such as a heathen man and a publican, and in 
 all cases respect the action of sister churches regarding the 
 validity of their letters, etc., rather than the person of ex- 
 pelled members. 
 
 Reason 11th : That a deacon baptized in the presence of 
 Elder Wolf. This allegation was sustained by the evi- 
 dence, but explained by Bro. Broadherst, the deacon who 
 officiated, that the duty of baptizing and^celebrating mar- 
 riage was voted upon him by the church, and given him in 
 charge, when installed in office, to perform these duties 
 when necessary, etc. Answer: With the above informa- 
 tion before us, w r e thought best to dismiss the case. 
 
 Charges preferred by the brethren claiming to be the 
 church of California, against certain persons among those 
 refusing to hand in their letters, etc. : 
 
 Charge 1st: Against Elder Hershey, Peter Garman, and 
 others, for organizing a church, and doing church business, 
 within the limits of an organized branch. Answer: Not 
 sustained by the evidence. 
 
 Charge 2d: Against Henry Haines, for saying he would 
 not be satisfied until Elder Wolf's office was taken from 
 him, and that the church w r ould never prosper until it was 
 done. Haines denies, and it is dismissed for want of evi- 
 dence. 
 
 Charge 3d : Against Peter Garman, for attempting to 
 read in public his letter, and those of several others, there- 
 by causing hard feelings among the brethren, and much 
 talk among the outside world. This was done after having 
 an opportunity to read them the day before at church 
 council. Confessed and explained. Answer: Considered, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 411 
 
 that it was out of order to read those letters before the pub- 
 lic, but inasmuch as he was subject to the call to order by 
 Elder Wolf, that we lay no further penalty upon him. 
 
 Charge 4th: Against Henry Haines, for visiting public 
 saloons, and drinking therein. Considered, that upon 
 hearing his explanation, we lay no further burden upon 
 him than an admonitiou to him, and all others, to abstain 
 from such appearance of evil, and that we show a better 
 light to the world. 
 
 Charge 5th : Against Bro. Hoxie, for holding the idea of 
 not praying at all in public, and other heretical doctrines, 
 and preaching them publicly and privately. He admits 
 the charge, but says, and also proved, that he has, and did, 
 very soon recant those doctrines, and acknowledges his 
 wrong. Answer : We consider that the proceedings against 
 him were informal, but as he was much out of order, we 
 now require a frank acknowledgment of him. 
 
 The report, as above recorded, was read, re-read, and ex- 
 plained, then submitted, and was unanimously accepted by 
 all the members present, and the requisitions complied with, 
 and we having discharged the duty assigned us in the fear 
 of God, according to our humble ability, submit all into 
 the hands of that body from whom we received our author- 
 ity, for its approval or rejection, and into the hand of God, 
 the Supreme Ruler of all events, praying that he may, and 
 will, overrule all for the advancement of his cause, for the 
 good of his children, and for the glory of his name. Re- 
 spectfully submitted by your committee — H. D. Davy, B. 
 F. Moomaw. 
 
 San Joaquin County, Cal., Nov. 2, 1874. 
 
 The above report was accepted by the Annual Meeting. 
 
 Art. 35. The committee appointed by the Annual Meet- 
 ing of 1874, to collect the minutes of former Annual 
 Meetings, held since the Brethren's Encyclopedia was pub- 
 lished, finding a wish among the brethren to have the min- 
 utes omitted in the Encyclopedia published, as well as those 
 
412 MINUTES OF 
 
 passed by Annual Meetings since that work was published, 
 have delayed our work until the Annual Meeting gives us 
 further instruction. Shall we, then, publish all the minutes 
 of Annual Meetings that can be collected, or only those 
 passed by the Annual Meetings since the publication of 
 the Brethren's Encyclopedia? Answer: Let all be pub- 
 lished, and the work be called, "Minutes of Annual 
 Councils." 
 
 Art. 86. Committees to visit churches: 1. A committee 
 to settle difficulties relative to Bourbon College. The fol- 
 lowing brethren constitute said committee : Hiel Hamilton, 
 Robert 11. Miller, John Metzger, H. P. Davy, and J. P. 
 Ebersole. The same committee will go to the Tippecanoe 
 Church, Indiana. 2. A committee to visit the Philadelphia 
 Church. The following brethren are on this committee : 
 H, P. Pavy, J. Quinter, Moses Miller, C. Bucher, and Jos. 
 P. llanawalt. 3. A committee to visit the church in Ogle 
 County, Illinois, that called for a committee. The follow- 
 ing brethren are on this committee: Paniel Pry, E. Eby, 
 David E. Price, Paniel Peardorf, and James R. Gish. 
 
 Art. 37. Miscellaneous: 1. Inasmuch as there hasbeen no 
 request for the Annual Meeting for 1875, and as the meet- 
 ing would properly go east of the Ohio River, we recom- 
 mend the matter to the brethren in the east, and trust they 
 will consider the subject, and announce the result to the 
 brotherhood as soon as possible. 2. In view of the kind- 
 ness shown by friends in this community to our brethren 
 during this meeting, by entertaining them very freely, as 
 far, apparently, as was necessary, we acknowledge their 
 kindness, and return them our thanks. 3. A resolution 
 was passed to take up a collection for the needy in the 
 west. 
 
 The meeting closed with singing and prayer. 
 
 A. II. Senseney, Em. Slifer, "Wm. Hertzler, Jos. R. llan- 
 awalt, J. Quinter, II. B. Ilylton, Jacob "Wine, Elias Auvil, 
 Jacob Garber, J. P. Ebersole, II. P. Pavy, P. B. Sturgis, 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 413 
 
 Jesse Meyers, Iliel Hamilton, Enoch Eby, John Metzger, 
 James R. Gish, Tobias Musser, C. Long, Jacob Brower, 
 S. S. Mohler, Sam. Stump, Isaac Miller, J. W. Brumbaugh. 
 
 ANNUAL MEETING OF 1876. 
 
 The standing committee met on Monday, June 5th, near 
 De Graft", Logan County, Ohio, and organized by appointing 
 II. D. Davy moderator, J. Quinter clerk, E. Eby reading- 
 clerk, and J. Thomas doorkeeper. 
 
 After the devotional exercises on Tuesday morning, the 
 General Council of the church proceeded* to business, and 
 the following queries being presented for consideration, 
 were considered in the fear of the Lord, and answered as 
 herein stated: 
 
 Article 1. Whereas, there seems to be a disposition on 
 the part of some of our brethren to consume much time 
 on many of the queries that come before our Annual Meet- 
 ing, and some even become very personal in their remarks; 
 and, whereas, this has caused hard feelings, and severe cen- 
 sure; be it therefore resolved, that the following rules be 
 adopted for the government of our Annual Meeting in the 
 transaction of its business: 1. All queries for discussion 
 with their answers, shall be read by the clerk, after which 
 the moderator shall declare the same open for discussion. 
 2. The reading of any question may be called for the second 
 time, but not oftener if there be objections made. 3. No 
 brother shall have the privilege of making more than two 
 speeches on the same subject, except by the consent of the 
 meeting, and the first shall not be longer than fifteen, and 
 the last than five minutes. 4. The moderator shall require 
 every brother, when speaking, to confine his remarks to 
 the subject before the meeting. 5. Any brother using per- 
 sonalities in his speech, shall be called to order by the 
 
414 MINUTES OF 
 
 moderator; and if he persist, be shall be told to take his 
 seat. 6. The moderator shall decide who has the right to 
 the floor, and when bis time expires. 7. The moderator 
 shall decide when the discussion on each subject shall close, 
 and when the question shall be put on its final passage. 
 But if objection be made to his ruling, then the standing 
 committee must unite with him in deciding the matter. 
 8. It shall be the duty of the moderator to keep order in 
 the congregation ; and for this purpose he may call to his 
 assistance other brethren, or the standing committee may 
 call on brethren to keep order. 
 
 All former rules not in conflict with the foregoing shall 
 continue in force. 
 
 Art. 2. Whereas, the questiou of a full report has been 
 before the Annual Meeting time and again for considera- 
 tion; and, whereas, upon the propriety of such a report a 
 difference of opinion obtains among the brethren ; there- 
 fore, resolved, that this meeting will not assume the respon- 
 sibility of granting such a report. But should any breth- 
 ren publish it, they shall be held responsible for any wrong 
 that may be committed in doing so. And we also decide 
 that it shall not be published in any of our periodicals. 
 
 Art. o. Is it agreeable to the gospel and faith, and order 
 of the brethren, to hold the office of school director under 
 the present laws of Pennsylvania? Answer: We think it 
 best for brethren not to serve in such capacity, where a 
 school director, according to the laws of the state, may 
 have to collect school-tax, and imprison a person if he does 
 not pay his tax. 
 
 Art. 4. Is it right to reject all queries coming before the 
 Annual Meeting, simply because they do not contain a 
 proviso to repeal all other queries previously passed by 
 Annual Meetings, which may conflict with the last one 
 presented? Answer: While we do not think it always 
 necessary, in a formal manner, to reconsider a former query 
 before another answer to the query is made, nevertheless 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 415 
 
 we consider it Lest to refer to former decisions, and have 
 it understood that such decisions are void when they con- 
 flict with the last decision. 
 
 Art. 5. Inasmuch as the brethren's hymn-book, as now 
 published, is very deficient in selections adapted to the 
 wants of the church, and also contains a large number of 
 badly-composed hymns, this meeting petitions the Annual 
 Meeting for the privilege of publishing a new book, or to 
 have the present one thoroughly revised. This meeting 
 further petitions that the Annual Meeting appoint for this 
 work a committee of four brethren, thoroughly posted in 
 versification, and then grant to each of our publishing 
 brethren the privilege of publishing their own books, or 
 those they need, to supply their patrons, or else have them 
 published jointly, as may be determined upon by the pub- 
 lishers, but not to be copyrighted. Answer : We think it 
 best to make no change in regard to our hymn-book. 
 
 Art. 6. "We ask for a reconsideration of Art. 11, of last 
 year. Answer : We agree to reconsider the above query, 
 and think that the delegate should first represent the sen- 
 timents of the district-meeting, but after doing so, should 
 have the privilege of speaking his own sentiments. 
 
 Art. 8. ¥e respectfully ask the Annual Meeting, through 
 the district-meeting, to say what course should be pursued 
 when a committee from the Annual Meeting has been sent 
 to adjust matters in a congregation where there are two 
 elders, between whom some unkindness and want of social 
 relations exist, yet no grave charge against either. Is it 
 legitimate to suspend them at home only, and to put in 
 authority over said church an unordained brother, and hold 
 church and officers amenable to said committee until said 
 elders cultivate social relations with each other, with the 
 promise by said committee that as soon as these conditions 
 are complied with, all should be restored ; and when elders 
 have complied, for said committee to withdraw their con- 
 nection from said church, and leave it in that unorganized 
 
416 MINUTES OF 
 
 condition? Answer: In reference to the above subject we 
 would say that we can not accept of the answer given by 
 the district-meeting, but would say, that in view of the 
 known conditions of the case, we submit it to the church 
 involved in the trouble, and the iive following elders : Isaac 
 Long, Jacob Thomas, Solomon Garber, Jacob Wine, and 
 Martin Garber. 
 
 Art. 8. Why does the church, after exacting a promise 
 of non-conformity to the world in appearance as a condi- 
 tion of membership, accept brethren as participants in the 
 deliberations of the Annual Meeting who disregard this 
 solemn promise ? Answer : IsTo brother ought to be per- 
 mitted to speak in public at our Annual Meetings who will 
 dress after the fashion of the world. 
 
 Art. 9. How is it considered when brethren receive 
 those of other denominations into their houses, and ask 
 them to give thanks at their tables, and hold family wor- 
 ship? What is to be done in such cases? or does the gos- 
 pel allow that liberty in any case? Answer: While we 
 would not, under all circumstances, think it wrong to ex- 
 tend the liberty above alluded to, we think the brethren 
 should be careful in granting such liberty. The character 
 of our guests, and the attendant circumstances, should gov- 
 ern in such cases. 
 
 Art. 10. A request that the Annual Meeting limit the 
 power of committees, so as not to allow them to expel a 
 majority of any church, unless their decision is ratified by 
 the Annual Meeting in open session. Answer: The re- 
 quest is granted. 
 
 Art. 11. We wish the Annual Meeting to say whether 
 we sball have a rolling or standing collar on our coats. 
 Answer: While we can not positively say which of the 
 above forms of the coat should be worn, we would advise 
 the brethren to try to become more uniform and plain, 
 rather than to depart from the order of plainness, not only 
 in our coats, but in every thing else. 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 417 
 
 Art. 12. Is it right for au elder, or for elders, to take up 
 charges and act upon them without name or authorship ? 
 Answer: An elder may receive a complaint from a report 
 injurious to the Christian character of a brother, without 
 the name of the person who makes the complaint, but :i 
 direct charge against a member should be accompanied by 
 the name of the brother that makes the charge. 
 
 Art. ] 3. Is it right for members to get those tine, costly, 
 and fashionable burial-cases to bury their dead in, and to 
 employ a fashionable hearse to convey them to the bury- 
 ino-.PTound in? Answer: We decide it is not right for 
 brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 14. As we consider that the grape juice is not wine 
 until after fermentation has taken place, will not this dis- 
 trict-meeting ask the Annual Meeting to repeal the wine 
 question of last year, and decide that only the fermented ( 
 juice of the grape shall be used on communion occasions, 
 as has always been the practice of the church? Answer: 
 We decide that no change shall be made from the last de- 
 cision. 
 
 Art. 15. Is it according to the gospel, and order of the 
 brethren, when a brother is elected to the ministry, and ac- 
 cepts the office, and is installed, and afterward gets diso- 
 bedient, and says he can not preach, for the church to re- 
 lease him so far that he is not under any obligations to 
 preach only in case he should feel to do so, and thereby 
 help him to live in disobedience, and give him liberty to 
 serve as a deacon, when he was never elected to a deacon's 
 office ? If so, let the gospel authority be presented. An- 
 swer: We consider it neither according to the gospel nor 
 the order of the brethren to do so. 
 
 Art. 16. A brother has a dairy, and objections were 
 made against him for furnishing his customers milk on 
 Sunday, claiming that brethren would do no more harm to 
 work on their farms on Sunday. The brother claims that 
 his customers, many of them, are ministers, and ministers 
 27 
 
418 MINUTES OF 
 
 of Sabbatarian churches., who say they must have their 
 milk; besides, lie furnishes milk for the sick, and for chil- 
 dren raised by the bottle; .and he says not to be allowed to 
 tarnish the milk would ruin his business, and subject him 
 to heavy loss. What is to be done in the case? Answer: 
 We can not grant a brother liberty to furnish milk on the 
 Sabbath to his customers, only to the sick and to the chil- 
 dren, and we advise him to get out of the business as soon 
 as possible. 
 
 Art. 17; We petition the Annual Meeting to reconsider 
 the following words, found in the plan for holding district- 
 meetings, adopted by the Annual Meeting of 1866: "A 
 record ma} T be kept, but not published," and so amend the 
 same as to give liberty to the district-meetings to print 
 minutes of their proceedings for distribution among the 
 members of their respective districts. Answer: This An- 
 nual Meeting reconsiders said words, and grants the privi- 
 lege asked for. 
 
 Art. 13. Is it right, according to the gospel and the order 
 of the church, for members to attend the Centennial? 
 Answer: Xo. (See John xv. 17-19, xvr. 14-16; II. Cor. 
 vi. 14-18; I. John iv. 7; James iv. 4.) 
 
 Art. 10. Is it right, according to the gospel, for a brother 
 to "plead the laws of the land, and act as an attorney? 
 Answer: The brethren have always considered it not ac- 
 cording to the gospel for a brother to practice law and act 
 as an attorney, and we can make no change in this respect. 
 
 Art. 20. Should a brother (being executor) be allowed, 
 after fearing some of the papers might not be worth full 
 value, to use means to get another brother to go security 
 mi said papers, and thereby run the risk of the estate; and 
 shall such executor be allowed to sue such brother, and 
 collect such amount in full, or only the amount the paper 
 was worth before the security was on, the whole matter 
 being under the control of the church ? Answer : We con- 
 sider it wrong, according to our understanding of the case, 
 
\NNIAL MEETIXUS OF THE BRETHREN. 419 
 
 for the brother who was the executor to get his Christian 
 brother to go on the paper as security, and it was very 
 wrong for the executor to sue his Christian brother. 
 
 Art. 21. Is it wrong for sisters to wear fashionable hats 
 instead of bonnets? and where is the Scripture forbidding 
 the wearing of such hats ? Answer : We decide it is wrong- 
 according to Kom. xii. 2; I. Tim. n. 9. 
 
 Art. 22. What does the Annual Meeting consider should 
 be done with elders and others, who make promise to a 
 committee sent by the Annual Meeting to set things in 
 order among them, and then do not respect the reports 
 made to them by the committee, and do not comply with 
 their promises for eighteen months or two years ? Answer : 
 This Annual Meeting authorizes the committee appointed 
 to California in 1874, to sec that their report is properly 
 carried out. 
 
 Art. 23. Whereas, we have a query from 'No. 1 district 
 of Virginia, one from West Virginia, one from the middle 
 district of Indiana, and one from the southern district of 
 Indiana, requesting the Annual Meeting to grant the dis- 
 trict-meetings power to send committees to settle difficul- 
 ties in the churches; therefore, resolved, that we decide to 
 make no change in this respect, believing our present man- 
 ner of sending committees is preferable to the one pro- 
 posed. 
 
 Art. 24. Whereas, a number of queries have come to 
 this Annual Meeting relative to a change in the manner ot 
 holding said meeting; and, whereas, the changes proposed, 
 though various, would not change the meeting very much 
 from the present way in which it is held ; and, whereas, the 
 change proposed will not probably lessen to any very great 
 extent the multitude in attendance ; therefore, resolved,tak- 
 ing all things into consideration, that we make no general 
 change, but will adhere as closely as possible to the plan 
 adopted in 1866, and labor to lessen as much as possible the 
 attendance at the meeting, and increase its facilities for 
 business. 
 
420 MINUTES OF 
 
 Art. 25. Several queries and requests relative to feet- 
 washing being presented to the meeting, the following was 
 prepared to meet the case: Whereas, the so-called double 
 mode in feet- washing is the recognized mode of the general 
 brotherhood; therefore, the Annual Meeting can not grant 
 the liberty prayed for, and no church can change from the 
 double to the single mode on the authority of the Annual 
 Meeting. Deferred. 
 
 Art. 26. To the Annual Meeting of the German Baptist 
 brethren, for the year of our Lord, 1876, we send greeting : 
 Inasmuch as a committee sent to the Brush Creek Church, 
 Adams County, Ohio, by the Annual Meeting of 1874, 
 found that we of the above-named church asked the ques- 
 tions to applicants for baptism before going into the water : 
 that we had in part adopted the single mode of feet-wash- 
 ing, and that we dismissed our congregations with a bene- 
 diction, said committee required of us that we abandon the 
 last, practice the double mode of feet-washing, and to send 
 the first to the Annual Meeting. The Brush Creek Church, 
 in consultation upon these subjects, has unanimously de- 
 cided to practice the single mode of feet-washing, to con- 
 tinue the use of the benediction, and to ask questions to 
 applicants before going into the water, as it formerly has 
 done. And we request this district-meeting of southern 
 Ohio to send to the Annual Meeting these three questions, 
 to-wit: 1. Is it wrong to dismiss a congregation with a 
 benediction? 2. Are we wrong in washing feet by the 
 single mode ? 3. Is it wrong to ask questions to applicants 
 for baptism before going into the water? And inasmuch 
 as the Brush Creek Church, in southern Ohio, is dissatis- 
 fied with their district-meeting" of 1874, because it called to 
 the Annual Meeting of that year for a committee to visit 
 our church upon mere report; is dissatisfied with the An- 
 nual Meeting of 1874, because it appointed said committee 
 on said report, and contrary to its own law ; is also dissat- 
 isfied with that committee for coming here, without any 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 421 
 
 notice to us of what they were coming for; we therefore 
 ask a satisfactory explanation of the whole proceeding, or 
 an acknowledgment to us by each of those bodies for their 
 conduct in these matters. 
 
 Query 1st: Can the Annual Meeting claim its decisions 
 as advice only (See Minutes of 1866, Art. 34), and at the 
 same time threaten with expulsion those who do not obey 
 them? 
 
 Query 2d: Is a committee justifiable in threatening a 
 church with expulsion, after admitting that said church 
 has all the essentials of salvation ? 
 
 We also ask of the district-meeting of southern Ohio, to 
 recognize Wm. Calvert and Landon West as delegates 
 from the Brush Creek Church to the district and Annual 
 Meetings of our brethren for the year 1876. 
 
 May Hill, Adams Co., Ohio, April 15, 1876. 
 
 Whereas, a committee was sent by the Annual Meeting 
 of 1874, to the Brush Creek Church, in Adams County, 
 Ohio, to set things in order in said church; and, whereas, 
 the report of said committee was accepted by said church, 
 but it has not only failed but refused to carry out said re- 
 port; therefore, resolved, that we can not consistently do 
 otherwise than hold said church to the carrying out of the 
 report of the committee, as it promised to do, and also re- 
 quire of it to take back certain offensive charges contained 
 in an address to the district of southern Ohio, and through 
 it to the Annual Meeting, dated April 15, 1876. 
 
 The following committee, being the committee sent in 
 1874, :3 re-appointed to go to said church to do whatever 
 is necessary to be done in the case: H. I). Davy, R. II. 
 Miller, and John Wise. J. Quinter was added to the com- 
 mittee. 
 
 Art. 27. The committee, namely, II. I). Davy, Moses 
 Miller, Jos. R. Hanawalt, Christian Bucher, and J. Quinter, 
 appointed by the last Annual Meeting to visit the Phila- 
 lelphia Church, to settle difficulties in said church, met in 
 
422 MINUTES OF 
 
 Philadelphia on the 27th of October, 1875, and organized 
 by appointing II. D. Davy foreman, and J. Qninter clerk, 
 and after devotional exercises proceeded to hear the griev- 
 ances from the grieved brethren, which were the following : 
 1. They (the majority) have a paid minister not elected 
 from among the brethren in Philadelphia, bnt "called" 
 from a distance, and have given him pre-eminence over 
 older ministers chosen by the church. Considered by the 
 committee, that while it is contrary to the gospel, as under- 
 stood by the brethren, to pay the minister any particular 
 sum as a salary, and while we should guard with care 
 against the practice, in the case under consideration, it does 
 not appear that any particular amount was contracted for 
 by the parties concerned, although money was made more 
 prominent than is commendable in such cases. And in re- 
 gard to the pre-eminence, we decide there was not the cau- 
 tion taken by the church to avoid offense that should have 
 been taken, and that Bro. J. P. Hetric should not have pre- 
 eminence over Bro. Custer, touching the liberty to preach 
 the word. 2. They (the majority) require this paid minis- 
 ter to do the principal part of the preaching, disregarding 
 the order of the brethren that our ministers shall have the 
 privilege to preach by turns. Considered, from the testi- 
 mony that came before us, in the fact that the meetings 
 were advertised in the papers for Bro. Hetric, and that, as 
 pastor of the church, there was an error committed, and an 
 admonition is necessary. 3. They (the majority) set aside 
 the reading of the Scripture in order by the deacons, a rule 
 established when the church was organized in Philadelphia. 
 Considered, that as there is no general order among the 
 brethren in regard to this usage, whatever the church de- 
 cides upon should be acquiesced in by all the members. 4. 
 The} 7 (the majority) make basket collections of money on 
 Sundays, during meetings for worship. Considered wrong, 
 and contrary to the order of the gospel, as understood by 
 the brethren, to make collections on the Lord's-day, save 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 423 
 
 for the poor, and the brethren should cease to do so. 5. 
 They (the majority) have a wooden pool under the pulpit, 
 in which they baptize in the meeting-house. Considered, 
 that inasmuch as the Annual Meeting has decided that it 
 is wrong to make use of a pool in a house, for the purpose 
 of baptizing, the brethren have erred in using said pool 
 since, and shall cease to do so until reconsidered by the 
 Annual Meeting. 6. They (the majority) make Sunday- 
 school anniversaries, entertainments, excursions, etc. Con- 
 sidered, that inasmuch as the Annual Meeting has decided 
 that it is wrong to have Sunday-school picnics, anniversa- 
 ries, entertainments, etc., that the brethren erred in taking 
 part as they did, and should abstain hereafter from doino- 
 so. 7. They (the majority) have a Sunday-school library, 
 consisting mostly of books of religious fiction. Consid- 
 ered, that inasmuch as the brethren in Annual Meeting- 
 have advised brethren, in conducting Sabbath-schools, to 
 use such books as contain nothing that conflicts with the 
 principles of the gospel, as held by the brethren, said coun- 
 sel should be observed by the brethren in procuring books 
 for Sabbath-schools. 8. They (the majority) have instru-i 
 mental music in the Sunday- school. Considered, that ac- 
 cording to the understanding of the gospel by the brethren, 
 and as given in councils of the Annual Meetings, it is con- 
 sidered wrong for members to have musical instruments, 
 we therefore decide that the brethren should cease to use 
 an instrument of music in the Sabbath-school. 0. They 
 (the majority) are, in all the above new things, in unison 
 with the popular and fashionable religion, having aban- 
 doned the non-conformity testimonies and practice of the 
 brotherhood. Considered, that from the foregoing griev- 
 ance, and from the departure we see, we would most ear- 
 nestly and affectionately urge the brethren and sisters of 
 the Philadelphia Church to adhere to the doctrine of non- 
 conformity to the world in dress, in spirit, and in every 
 way that doctrine can be applied, as this constitutes such 
 
424 MINUTES OF 
 
 a prominent doctrine of the gospel, and one of the pecul- 
 iarities of our brotherhood. II. D. Davy, J. Quinter, J. K. 
 Hanawalt, C. Bucher, M. Miller. 
 
 In regard to the case of the Philadelphia Church, we 
 accept of the report of the committee sent to said church, 
 and reappoint the committee first appointed to have the 
 said report carried out. 
 
 Art. 28. Inasmuch as there has beeu a certain legacy be- 
 queathed to the standing committee of the German Baptist 
 Church by the last will and testament of Solomon G. Karn : 
 and inasmuch as said money was bequeathed on certain 
 specified conditions, we here give the last will and testa- 
 ment by which said bequest is made to the standing com- 
 mittee of the German Baptist Church : 
 
 "Know all men by these presents, that I, Solomon G. 
 Ivarn, <f the County of Wabash, and State of Indiana, 
 being of sound mind, do make and publish this, my last 
 will and testament. 
 
 "First: I give and bequeath to my beloved wife, Martha 
 L. Kara, lots ISTos. 40 and 50, in the town of Manchester. 
 in said county and state, and now occupied by us as our 
 home; also, a certain tract of land in Douglas County, and 
 State of Kansas, belonging to me, and for which I am en- 
 titled to a deed, to have as her own, or convey by deed in 
 fee simple, as she may choose; also, all and every article 
 of personal property in our possession, including my mare, 
 buggy and harness, and four hundred dollars, to be paid to 
 her as soon as it can be collected from my outstanding 
 claims. 
 
 "I will, further, that my wife shall have the selection of 
 my tombstones, and that my executor pay for them out of 
 the residue of my estate, together with any expense they 
 may apply to my grave. 
 
 "Second: It is hereby expressly provided, that should 
 there hereafter an heir be born to me, the residue of my 
 moneys and effects (after the payment of my debts) shall 
 
ANNUAL MEETINGS OF THE BRETHREN. 425 
 
 be placed at interest, to the best advantage, for the benefit 
 of said heir, when arriving at majority, but the interest 
 of said money shall be paid annually to my wife, and be 
 subject to her control during her natural life. 
 
 " In the eyent said posthumous child should die before 
 my wife, the interest shall still be paid to my wife, as [and] 
 in the event that my wife and said child should both die 
 before the child becomes of age of majority, then the re- 
 mainder of estate shall be paid to the standing committee 
 of the first annual conference of the German Baptist 
 Church (of which I am a member), to be used by said com- 
 mittee for the spread of the gospel, or for the purpose of 
 charity, as they shall think right and proper. 
 
 " If at any time, by misfortune or illness, the interest, as 
 above, should prove insufficient for the support of my wife, 
 as provided, she shall have of the principal to meet ex- 
 penditures. 
 
 " Third : I do hereby nominate and appoint John Bussard, 
 of Miami County, Indiana, executor of this my last will 
 and testament. I do hereby revoke all former wills by me 
 made. 
 
 "In testimony hereof, I have hereunto set my hand and 
 seal, this 12th day of November, A. D. 1868. 
 
 " Solomon G. Karn [Seal.]" 
 
 "Signed and acknowledged by said Solomon G. Earn, 
 as his last will and testament, in our presence, and signed 
 by us in his presence. 
 
 " Wesley Bussard, 
 " J. B. Harter." 
 
 Will proved before James M. Amars, clerk Wabash 
 County Court Common Pleas, on the 19th day of Decem- 
 ber, 1868, by Wesley Bussard. 
 
 We, the brethren of the German Baptist Church, assem- 
 bled in conference at the meeting-house of the brethren in 
 Logan County, Ohio, on the 6th day of June, 1876, decide 
 that the prospective bequest made in the aforesaid last will 
 
426 MINUTES OF 
 
 and testament of Solomon G. Kara, in favor of the Ger- 
 man Baptist Church, shall be released. And we hereby 
 authorize the standing committee of this meeting; to sign 
 a release of said prospective claim, as set forth in the fore- 
 going will, giving to the mother of said posthumous child, 
 which child is a daughter, now living, and about the age 
 of years, all the right, title, claim, and interest pro- 
 spectively held by us in the aforesaid will. 
 
 The German Baptist Church, to which the contingent 
 fund above alluded to has been intrusted, having some fears 
 that the foregoing release may not be sufficient to meet the 
 laws of the State of Indiana, appoint the following breth- 
 ren, and give them full power to make any release of the 
 funds above alluded to that the laws of the State of Indi- 
 ana may require: II. D. Davy, Samuel Mohler, and Isaac 
 Studebaker. 
 
 Passed by the unanimous consent of this Annual Meet- 
 ing. 
 
 Art. 20. Committees to visit churches : 1. A committee 
 to visit Dry Valley Church, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania. 
 The following brethren constitute the committee: John 
 Gluck, Solomon Seiber, and Geo. Brumbaugh. 2. The 
 following brethren are a committee to go to the West Nim- 
 •ishillen Church, Stark County, Ohio: R. II. Miller, Daniel 
 Brower, and J. P. Ebersole. 3. The following brethren 
 are a committee to go to the English Biver Church, Iowa: 
 E. K. Beeghly, Peter Forney, and M. Sisler. 4. In com- 
 pliance with a request from the George's Creek Church, 
 Fayette County, Pennsylvania, for a committee, the follow- 
 ing brethren were appointed: D. P. Sayler, John Wise, 
 and J. Quinter. 5. The following brethren are a commit- 
 tee to the Welsh Pun Church, Pennsylvania: D. P. Sayler, 
 J. D. Trostle, and Jacob Price. 0. The following brethren 
 are a committee to the Antietam Church, Franklin County, 
 Pennsylvania: D. Long, D. Keller, and Daniel Eckerman 
 
annAl meetings of the brehtern. 427 
 
 Art. 30. A request was made by the middle district of 
 Pennsylvania, for the Annual Meeting of 1877, which was 
 granted. Accordingly, the Lord willing, the next Annual 
 Meeting will be with the brethren in the district, above 
 named, and in the congregation selected by the proper au- 
 thority. The place will be announced in due time in our 
 periodicals. 
 
 After a season of devotional exercises, the meeting ad- 
 journed. 
 
 Standing committee: B. 1'. Sayler, B. Long, Samuel 
 Ilarley, M. Miller, J. Quinter, E. Eleshman, I. Long, B. B. 
 Arnold, G. Irwin, J. Brown, 11. B. Bavy, M. Shotts, J. 
 Flory, R. II. Miller, E. Eby, B. E. Price, J. Metzger, Jos. 
 Ogg, Abr. Stamy, Baniel Zook, ¥m. Gish, Isaac Miller. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Acknowledgment — Public -5, 64, 282 
 
 Before the church 146 
 
 Of editors 380, 381 
 
 The church to judge of the sufficiency 
 
 of. 291 
 
 Adultery— 25, 54, 50, 62,165,187,198,211,220,230,255,271 
 278, 309, 324. 329, 355, 385. 
 Praying for a person in 146, 148 
 
 Alms — Collecting 1^ 
 
 Annual Meeting — Report of a committee on 127 
 
 A change in manner of holding asked 
 for... 142, 148, 150,361, 375,393,399,400, 419 
 
 A remonstrance against a change in 149 
 
 A change in the time of holding asked for 208 
 A change proposed in the standing com- 
 
 • mittee 252, 271 
 
 To be held alternately cast and west of 
 
 the Ohio River. 286 
 
 A change in the manner of holding con- 
 cluded upon : 289 
 
 Organization of. 323 
 
 The present general plan of holding of... 302 
 
 A tent for holding in 396 
 
 Assailed 369 
 
 Rules for governing 413 
 
 Eeport of proceedings of. 414r 
 
II. INDEX. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Anointing the sick 25,39, 243 
 
 The manner of performing... .64, 176, 243, 345 
 
 ]\Ia} T be repeated .67, 166 
 
 By whom to be done..80, 151, 266, 289, 290, 325 
 
 To whom it is to be done 151, 165, 166 
 
 Anointing the head 214 
 
 Of Christ 358 
 
 Ardent spirits — Security for dealing in 172 
 
 A church agreeing not to use 194 
 
 At sales 63, 169 
 
 The use of. .71, 92, 169 
 
 Dealing in 33, 63, 69^ 260, 280 
 
 Informing on a person for selling.. 355 
 
 Duty of ministers concerning 202 
 
 Assigning property 61 
 
 How to deal with a member who does so 217 
 
 A ssociation — Peace ■ 401 
 
 Building 363 
 
 Attest— Taking the 5, 6 
 
 Avoidance— How to treat those in 37, 86, 104, 125, 151 
 
 How to treat the companions of those in, if 
 
 members 60, 62, 98 
 
 .Releasing from 65 
 
 Difference of opinion concerning 87 
 
 Liberating from 126, 148, 151 
 
 What sins require it 137 
 
 The authority for putting in 147, 152 
 
 An elder in 152 
 
 Who shall infor.ni the person put into 152 
 
 Ban — See avoidance. 
 
 Banking : 376, 3S9 
 
 Baptism — By single immersion 35, 59, 71 
 
 Denunciation in 205 
 
 Form of words in 103, 106, 157, 190 
 
 In the house 282, 400 
 
 Who ma}' administer it 322 
 
 Questions in 380 
 
INDEX. III. 
 
 ' . PAGE. 
 
 Beard 34, 59 3 115, 170, 182, 257, 346, 389 
 
 Bells— On horses 195 
 
 Meeting-houses 232. 256, 299, 313 
 
 Benediction — Pronouncing the 132, 155, 262 
 
 At funerals 26»> 
 
 Bonds — Selling 38, 53, 65 
 
 Govern men t 282. 291 
 
 Bounty money 286 
 
 Borrowing money * 119 
 
 Brethren in Germany 19!) 
 
 Brewery 66, 81 
 
 Butchering 144 
 
 Brush Creek church, difficulties in 420, 421 
 
 Camp-meetings 124 
 
 Carpets , 65,67, 173 
 
 Caution in laying out towns 179 
 
 Centennial 418 
 
 Certificates. .14,72,91,127,129, 134,173, 258, 279. 285. 295, 307, 347 
 
 354, 368 
 
 Children to be instructed in the truth 15 
 
 Church — Elections, manner of holding 297, 298 
 
 In disorder, how to deal with a 320 
 
 To be governed by the gospel 373 
 
 Duty of 188, 272 
 
 A request to organize a 200 
 
 In which shall a case be tried . .174, 208, 308, 395, 405 
 
 Power of 212, 37:i 
 
 Receiving complaints 251 
 
 Duty of, toward transgressors 264 
 
 Duty of. toward expelled members. 264 
 
 Not congregational 276 
 
 Uniformity of practice in , •. . 13o 
 
 Should be subject to Annual Meeting 150 
 
 The authority of its resolutions 96 
 
 Dealing with a church 174 
 
 Small to be cared for 124 
 
 Shall each have a corresponding secretary 135 
 
IV. INDEX. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Civil Government — Speaking against 294 
 
 Of the Lord 283 
 
 College— Bourbon 301 
 
 Education 69, 174, 392 
 
 Teaching in 3G7 
 
 Colonization 157 
 
 Colored members 72, 140, 310 
 
 "Committees ;. 162, 165, 167, 168 
 
 To keep a record 346 
 
 Decisions of, to be accepted 307 
 
 To California and Oregon 351 
 
 Expenses of. 39S 
 
 Appointed to collect minutes of Annual Meeting, 114 
 
 Power of 290, 327, 394, 405, 416 
 
 Paying expenses of. 212, 397 
 
 Vacancy in 212 
 
 Duty of 264, 415 
 
 Appointed by Annual Meeting, by whom to be 
 
 composed 401 
 
 Communion — Not to be separated from the supper 54 
 
 Eestricted 58, 61, 134 
 
 To sick members 68,105, 157 
 
 By whom to be administered 73 
 
 To the sick out of the church 91 
 
 Given by the sisters 140, 203 
 
 Singing at 213, 228 
 
 The kind of wine to be used at the..217, 400, 417 
 
 To the sick in daytime 251 
 
 Old complaints after 251 
 
 On the table at supper 283, 358 
 
 After the original example 268 
 
 The time to commence 25S 
 
 Not to be taken by unworthy members 158 
 
 With the far western brethren.. 148 
 
 Erequency of. 292 
 
 Position in prayer at 338 
 
 Confession— For hard expressions 57 
 
 Before the church 59 
 
INDEX. V 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Confession — Public 04 
 
 Alone, when sufficient 113 
 
 Conformity to the world..52, GO, 6G, 120, 170, 137, 201, 210, 232 
 
 219, 259, 261,, 270, 102 
 
 Council— Legality of 195, 219 
 
 Mutual 00 
 
 To be held by the district into which a member 
 
 is to be received 130 
 
 In reference to the far western brethren 161 
 
 Council-meetings— Manner of holding.. ..282, 300, 307, 338, 102 
 
 Private 62, 110, 122, 271 
 
 Friends of the accused to withdraw 
 
 from 52. 70, S3 
 
 Disorder at 1S7 
 
 Speaking against the 108 
 
 Members reporting proceedings of. 265 
 
 T aking vote of 266 
 
 Complaint of long standing 101 
 
 Covering for the head 121, 199, 258, 357 
 
 Deacons — Bearing testimony 91, 97, 217, 262 
 
 Retaining office upon removal 233 
 
 Duty of. - 75, 272 
 
 Laying hands on..83, 85, 102, 109,112, 118, 125, 119, 323 
 
 Not to be ordained bishops 116 
 
 How far they may fill appointments 116 
 
 Qualifications for 118 
 
 Rising to speak , 333, 361, 338 
 
 Marrying out of the church 366 
 
 Installation of. 379 
 
 Debts — Against contracting 33 
 
 Neglecting to pay 261, 268, 322 
 
 Delegates to Annual Meeting — Paying expenses of. 20') 
 
 To be provided with accom- 
 modations... 121, 206, 347 
 
 Delegates — -California and Oregon 216, 253 
 
 A proper title 142 
 
 Duty of 101 
 
VI INDEX. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Dealing— With members... 234, 259, 263, 274,289, 291, 292, 298 
 
 308, 315, 367, 395 
 
 With expelled members 293. 325. 351 
 
 With an expelled minister 396 
 
 Difficulties— In churches. ...128, 130, 154. 155, 157. 198, 200, 204 
 
 232, 303, 364 
 
 Between brethren ." 28, 30 
 
 Domestic 144, 197,211, 241 
 
 Plan for settling 198 
 
 Difference in sins 63 
 
 Debabting-schools 328,331, 404 
 
 Discipline — The minutes are not a 368 
 
 District — Dividing of a 136 
 
 District-meetings 275, 285, 299, 364, 367, 374, 383, 404, 419 
 
 Minutes of. 281, 295, 403, 448 
 
 Disorder 130, 141, 174, 181, 214, 226, 230, 234, 263, 266, 356 
 
 I a installation 25!> 
 
 In worship 262, 265 
 
 Distilleries 9, 14, 59, 61, 65, 67, 83, 88, 109, 174 
 
 Selling grain to 74, 77 
 
 "Working in a 114 
 
 Divorce 147, 14S, 258,260, 310, 356, 386 
 
 Doctrine — Difference in 1 04 
 
 Drunkenness — The sin of, how to be dealt with 145, 264 
 
 Electioneering 77, 81 
 
 Elections for church officers 80,86,99, 100,144, 176, 195 
 
 214, 261, 265, 322, 384 
 
 Disorder at 292 
 
 Manner of holding 326, 332 
 
 Election for civil officers in our houses 85 
 
 Elders— Authority of... 126, 141, 229, 273,299, 347, 348, 363, 384 
 
 Are of the same authority 113 
 
 Delinquency in duty 175, 292 
 
 Duty of, to adjoining congregations 163, 181 
 
 Who are eligible to the office of 315 
 
 Laboring in other churches 373 
 
 Two in one church 382 
 
INDEX. VII 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Elders — Form of installing 400 
 
 Ordination of. 1-47, 155. 171 
 
 Too old to serve 78 
 
 Duty to their church 133 
 
 Tolerating pride 372 
 
 Executors ')$, 2S3, 32 1 . 41 8 
 
 Expelling members : 113. 11G 
 
 Expelled members — How to treat Gl 
 
 How to get a hearing 304 
 
 Fairs 174, 220, 366 
 
 Leasing ground for 310 
 
 Far western brethren 161, 1G2, 102, 10G, 235, 344 
 
 Fashions, guarding against 3G 
 
 Fasting 153, 172, 325 
 
 Farmer's clubs 396 
 
 Family worship 157, 173 
 
 Faults — Public, how to settle 88. 105 
 
 Feeding the multitude at love-feasts 296 
 
 Female preaching 73 
 
 Feet-washing — A uniform practice of. in the churches de- 
 sired , 177 
 
 Not to be practiced with members of other 
 
 societies 30, 77. 90 
 
 "When to be practiced 1!) 1 
 
 No change to be made in. 110, 116, 12G. 141, 320 
 
 332. 360, 375, 420 
 
 Fornication 145, 185, 188, 104. 203, 272, 324, 328 
 
 Freemasonry 34, G6. 180, 228 
 
 Forfeited money 250 
 
 Freedmen of the south 311 
 
 Funerals 56, 105, 158, 105. 21G, 204, 308, 417 
 
 < iarber's legacy 150, 180 
 
 (rifts, exercise of 211,228 
 
 Gospel Visitor 148, 15G, 162, 169 
 
 Grange 373 
 
 Hair, wearing of the . 335 
 
 Heresy. 51,56.110. 172 
 
VIII. INDEX. 
 
 TAGE. 
 
 High School 164, 136, 205, 221 
 
 Hymn-hook 214, 215, 252, 297, 334, 319, 375, 384, 39G, 415 
 
 Infares C6 
 
 Insolvent members 70 
 
 Installation, no difference between near relations in 255 
 
 Insurance 120, 126, 193, 297, 347, 351, 363, 379, 365, 403 
 
 interest 61, 72, 74, 81, 107, 193, 267, 272, 374, 385 
 
 Invitation to seekers 189, 217, 268 
 
 Jewelry 280, 317 
 
 Jurors, members serving as. 69, 73, 77, 91, 95, 279, 406 
 
 Kiss, the holy 25, 38, 67, 69, 70, 77.97, 110, 132,158,166, 176 
 
 Kara legacy 424, 425, 426 
 
 Law— Taking benefit of 60. 139, 159, 195,, 205, 229, 232, 370 
 
 Using of the. .38, 58, 70, 72, 87, 90, 96, 104, 130, 172, 213 
 
 216, 219, 220, 226, 267, 273, 325, 355, 361 
 
 Using of, justified by brethren 175 
 
 Pleading 4 IS 
 
 Likenesses 135, 205, 221, 322, 348, 374 
 
 Lightning-rods 156, 198, 279, 298, 311 
 
 Lottery tickets, buying of 35, 89, 150, 172 
 
 Love-feasts — Holding small 67, 69 
 
 Private and frequent 94 
 
 When to commence 181, 190 
 
 When to be held 181 
 
 A model for 183 
 
 Disorder at 132, 346 
 
 How to leave 62 
 
 Whether there may be different tables at. . . . 61 
 
 At Annual Meeting 190 
 
 Closing , . . . 377 
 
 Without an invitation to adjoining churches. 265 
 
 Marriages of kindred 17, 182, 20!> 
 
 Matrimonial 33, 53, 55, 125, 140, 147, 211, 317, 386 
 
 Meeting-houses— Building of 68, 179, 188, 279, 291 
 
 Opening of, for lectures 175 
 
 Meeting — Edification of , 212 
 
 Order of conducting 255 
 
INDEX. IX. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Mooting — Social • • - 218 > 231 
 
 Held in the housees of expelled members 88 
 
 Exhorting too long before ss 
 
 In the houses of persons not members 152 
 
 Feeding the people at 112 
 
 To be held in order 128 
 
 Members — Disorderly l^o 
 
 Neglecting duty 256, 350 
 
 Neglecting public worship 130 
 
 Bight to petition Annual Meeting 324 
 
 Withdrawing from the church 79 
 
 N umbering of 308 
 
 Takingpart in Sunday-school and class-meetings 83 
 
 Entitled to a defense 9 - 
 
 Not to be expelled without gospel authority. . . 372 
 
 Morchandising • " 
 
 Kestriction 334 
 
 ^ i • • ? 290 
 
 Ministers— Ordaining of * w 
 
 Manner of preaching 332 
 
 Marrying out of the church 300 
 
 Form of installing 390 
 
 Authority of..... 101,233,257,402 
 
 Character of ^ 
 
 Silenced -•• 403 
 
 Moving 71 > 74 > 3G4 
 
 Colored 3G J 
 
 Involved in difficulty 34 ° 
 
 Fallen, "privileges to • 334 
 
 Receiving from other denominations 332 
 
 Delinquent in duty 326 > 338 
 
 Eeceiving salaries ol ° 
 
 Report of travels 310,404 
 
 Reinstating in office 73 > 8 ^ 
 
 Should not be too forward 9l) 
 
 Consuming too much time in speaking 101 
 
 ■n r rr f ms 107 »13 222,285,300, 383 
 
 Forwarding of loo, i.'< , -io, _„-, - , , 
 
 • * r,- «f .210, 230, 201 
 Inconsistency oi - iV > 
 
X. INDEX. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Ministers— Differing in doctrine 217 
 
 Servants of the church 221 
 
 Asking to be released 244, 417 
 
 Treasury for the support of 252 
 
 Conforming to the world 271,312, 313, 357 
 
 Fees 66, 124, 1S7, 195, 205, 213 
 
 Title of 327 
 
 Preaching after their office is taken from them. 130 
 
 Ministry — Grades in 2S5, 29'.'> 
 
 Military. .53, G2, 74, 77,88, 231, 270, 273, 280, 284, 290, 292, 293 
 Missionary. ..163, 171, 198, 222, 233, 250, 327, 335, 363, 375, 3SG 
 
 395, 403 
 
 Mortgage — Closing a 365 
 
 Asking a, of a brother, by a brother 63, 229 
 
 Minutes— Of Annual Meeting, printing of 133, 143 
 
 Collection of 133, 222, 250, 355 
 
 For officers of the church 142 
 
 Obligatory until repealed 241 
 
 Not to be printed in Gospel Visitor 275, 291 
 
 Disregarded 214 
 
 Advice and not laws . . . . 295 
 
 Musical instruments 164, 314, 357, 383, 396 
 
 Music teaching 374 
 
 Name of our fraternity 78, 369 
 
 " Nearest relation," defined 393 
 
 Nonconformity to the world . 66, 73, 87, 107,280, 317,365, 368 
 
 416, 419 
 
 Nonresistancc 107, 185, 388 
 
 Notes— Selling ot 216, 229 
 
 Shaving of 214 
 
 Oath of loyalty , t . . 309 
 
 Obedience — To the church required 38 
 
 To civil law 10 
 
 < )ffenscs — Public 189 
 
 Does Matthew xvm. cover all 203 
 
 Distinction between 385 
 
INDEX. XI. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Offices — Civil, not to be held by members. 10, 40, 60, 64, 73, 85 
 
 96, 103, 140, 145, 162, 183, 207, 316, 326, 376, 389, 414 
 
 Officers — Union among, in preparatory council 373 
 
 Ordination, in case the church is not unanimous 99 
 
 ( )rphan's home 384 
 
 Orphans of members of the church to be cared for 353 
 
 Patent rights 91, 186, 312 
 
 Paintings 114, 173 
 
 Pension for soldiers 35, 351 
 
 Petition to Annual Meeting from southern Ohio. . 340 
 
 Philadelphia church, troubles in 421, 422, 423 
 
 Plain language 147 
 
 Political meetings 91, 172 
 
 Poor, providing for. . . .86, 158, 182, 1S8, 204, 260, 321, 400, 401 
 
 Postage, about paying 155 
 
 Post-master, office of ' 401 
 
 p ra yer — Exhortation before, at public worship 272 
 
 Meetings 173, 157, 231, 255 
 
 Private - (; 7 
 
 Meetings of other denominations 9S 
 
 The posture in 98 
 
 Lord's to be used 38 
 
 Preaching— By private members. .78, 83, 85, 108, 128, 132, 180 
 
 219, 275, 294 
 
 By females. 
 
 227 
 
 Appointing for other denominations 83 
 
 In the English and German languages 90, 110 
 
 Preachers of other denominations preaching in our houses, 116 
 
 135 
 
 Pride 114 
 
 Proceedings of Annual Meeting not to be read at close of the 
 
 meeting 163 
 
 Protracted meetings 94, 124, 216, 221, 395 
 
 Publications 182, 203, 290, 299, 307, 344, 393, 405, 406 
 
 Public improvements 166 
 
 Pulpit or stands 118, 122, 158, 273, 312, 334, 383, 393. 403 
 
XII INDEX. 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Queries — For Annual Meeting 414 
 
 How to prepare them for Annual Meeting.. 94, 102, 167 
 
 From district-meeting ■ 390 
 
 Railroad privileges 215, 277, 288, 359 
 
 He-baptizing 125. 2G0, 26S, 308, 328, 331, 333, 354 
 
 Rebellion, taking part in the 29-1, 298 
 
 Receiving — A complaint and charge 417 
 
 Expelled members. .89, 166, ISO, 234, 242, 251, 276 
 
 293, 316, 357, 373 
 
 Applicants.. .74, SI, 87, 122, 125, 176, 220, 222, 227 
 
 242, 246, 259, 267, 281, 283, 354, 356, 369, 394 
 
 Applicants, preparation for 74, 81, 87, 122, 125 
 
 Applicants from other denominations 65, 84 
 
 Colored persons 75, 107 
 
 A minister without giving the hand and kiss.. 114 
 
 Ministers with their wives 84' 
 
 Officers 130, 256 
 
 Sick persons 65, 82, 186 
 
 Reconsideration. .156, 242, 308, 311, 317, 321, 324, 354, 383, 395 
 
 Report of committee — To far western brethren 196 
 
 Philadelphia 342 
 
 On proceedings of Annual Meeting 351 
 353, 380. 388, 401, 414 
 
 To be regarded , 419 
 
 To California 406 
 
 Restoration . , 140, 210. 406 
 
 Restoring ministers to office 375 
 
 Sabbath— Violation of. .39, 53. 67. 72, 78. 164, 276,281,380, 417 
 
 Feasting on 365 
 
 Sabbath-schools 204, 255.. 261, 333, 358, 364, 3S2 
 
 School — Teaching by E. fteyser 325 
 
 Exhibitions 249, 251, 257, 34S 
 
 Security 129 
 
 Secret societies 129, 167, 185, 226, 256, 316, 345 
 
 Selling books at Annual Meeting 310 
 
 Shows .' 74, 83, 127. 366, 367 
 
 Sinccin^ before general service begins 227 
 
INDEX. XIII 
 
 PAGE. 
 
 Singing-schools — In meeting-houses 82 
 
 Teaching. 63. 136, 206, 256, 392 
 
 Singing the different parts in music 103 
 
 Single immersion ! 67, 70, 72 
 
 Slavery 24, 41, 170, 171, 203, 257, 271, 295 
 
 Eeport on 179 
 
 Slaves,' hiring l{) ~ 
 
 Slave-traded. 8, 40, 41, 81, 116 
 
 Social meetings '-49, 2G8 
 
 Sons of Temperance 120 
 
 Spiritual rappings 163 
 
 Standing Committee — How to he formed 332 
 
 Ministers of the second degree on. . 368 
 
 Vindicated 352 
 
 Authority of ,338, 400 
 
 Stock of railroads and banks 245, 382 
 
 Strange doctrine. .10,17,18,21,26,29,31,142,180,186,, 206, 220, 22G 
 
 Substitute money 7 
 
 Supper, Lord's — What shall constitute it 65, 140, 172, 183 
 
 189, 216, 270, 358 
 
 Whether it shall be on table at feet-washing 60 
 
 71, 103, 135, 198, 202, 264, 309, 346 
 
 Thanks after ' 268 
 
 Different manner of observing the 274 
 
 Disorder at 346 
 
 Uniformity of practice at 216, 322 
 
 Persons not members partaking of.. 69, 90, 136 
 
 How it shall bo held 85 
 
 Bequired by the gospel 126 
 
 Is it sacred or common 135 
 
 To be held in uniformity 151 
 
 Swearing - 1 - 
 
 Tavern-keeping 32, 74, Vi 
 
 Taxation for church purposes 296, 328, 331 
 
 Temperance "*> ■*■' ® 
 
 Society °- J ° 
 
 Lecturing on • • • 05 
 
XIV INDEX. 
 
 TAGE. 
 
 Testimony— From the world.. 52, 79, 90, 109, 174, 295, 348, 36:5 
 
 In court 59, 62 
 
 Through, deacons 100 
 
 Of husband and wife, one against the other. . 12G 
 Of several witnesses, but at different times. . . . 173 
 
 Conflicting 175 
 
 Of an accused member '. 260 
 
 Of one witness not sufficient 266 
 
 Thanksgiving — Eepeated 175 
 
 Days 293 
 
 Thurman, TV. C 300, 31S 
 
 Tobacco 52, 60, 66, 85, 282, 356, 372 
 
 Tombstones 186 
 
 Trafficking 197 
 
 In fruit trees 31G 
 
 Uniformity — Means for preserving. 215, 219 
 
 Of practice in receiving members 218 
 
 Vendue crying SO 
 
 Visit, annual 151 210 
 
 By whom to be made 311 
 
 Questions at _ _ 321 
 
 Prayer at 333 
 
 Voting 42, 66, 74, 140, 273, 278, 283, 291, 297, 298, 300 
 
 300, 307; 346 
 
 Vow 67 
 
 Widow's dower . , 242 250 
 
 Can she hold it, , 115 
 
 Widows to be supported 354 3(53 
 
 AVills, making ]14 
 
 Widows, the children of, to be cared for by the church .... 3!)