COLUMBIA LIBRARIES OFFSITE AVERY FINE ARTS RESTRICTED The Lutheran Church in New York 1649-1772 1 ✓ Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Likrary Gift of Seymour B. Durst Old York Library hae THE LUTHERAN CHURCH IN NEW YORK 1649-1772 Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2014 https://archive.org/details/lutheranchurchinOOunit The Lutheran Church in New York 1649-1772 Records in the Lutheran Church Archives at Amsterdam, Holland Translated by Arnold J. H. vanLaer New York The New York Public Library 1946 tiae REPRINTED FROM' THE BULLETIN OF THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY 1944-1945 PRINTED AT THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY form p515 [iy-1-46 5c] Introduction by Harry J. Kreider Cliairman, Committee on Documentary History of The United Lutheran Synod of New York NEARLY three centuries ago, in 1649, the many Lutherans in Manhattan and Albany made their first concerted effort to establish a church of their own in the colony of New Netherland. It was a long and bitter struggle in the face of the religious intolerance enforced by the Dutch Reformed authorities. By the time tolerance was granted under English rule, in 1664, the new movement had been crushed almost out of existence, and the efforts to revive it were beset with so many discouraging factors that it was a century before the church was firmly established. Up to a few years ago, the knowledge of this struggle in the seventeenth century was limited mainly to the published records in the Ecclesiastical Records of the State of New York, 1 nearly all the originals of which were secured from the Dutch Reformed archives in Holland. Such a source, obviously, would not be expected to present the viewpoint of the Lutherans themselves. The large collection of records beginning in 1649 in the archives of the Amsterdam Lutheran Church was practically unknown. At any rate, none of the general histories of the colony ever made mention of their existence. 2 The newly recovered records from the Amsterdam Church now being published are of primary importance in filling a gap in our source material, especially for the seventeenth century, for a better understanding of the religious and social life of the Lutherans in colonial New York. They formed a sizable proportion of the population when they first asserted themselves, embracing a cosmopolitan constituency of which, curiously enough for a Dutch colony, those who came from Holland were smallest in number. The Lutherans were of the middle class, merchants, shopkeepers, me- chanics, and farmers, nearly all of whom owned their own property. They were so strong in number, and had enough able leaders, that their aggressive- ness was deemed a definite threat to the ecclesiastical monopoly of the Dutch Reformed Church. The persecution which ensued was so effective that they never recovered from it throughout the colonial period. The enormous 1 Albany, 1901-16, 7 vols. 2 One of the best works on the religious conditions in the colony in the Dutch period, Religion in New Netherland, 1623-1664, by Frederick J. Zwierlein, Rochester, N. Y., 1910, 365 p., especially Chapter 6, "The Persecution of the Lutherans," has no reference to the Amsterdam Lutheran Church archives. [5] 6 The New York Public Library losses sustained through the families who affiliated with the Dutch Reformed Church, particularly for the sake of their children, were never made up, for with the English conquest immigration from Lutheran countries in Europe sharply declined, and from some countries practically ceased. Now that these people can speak for themselves through their own letters and reports, one is impressed by the fact that they were imbued in large measure with the spirit of religious liberty so cherished in America. The movement for a church of their own was begun and continued by the people themselves, under their own lay leaders. Even when pastors were secured for them by the Amsterdam Lutheran Consistory, it was always clearly stated that the call issued by that body was by virtue of the authority vested in it by the colonial congregations. Their love of freedom, however, never deteriorated into radicalism, for from the beginning they could assert without challenge that they were always law-abiding citizens, and that principle was consistently followed. Further- more, while they were determined to establish an indigenous rather than a transplanted church, they were not separatists. They maintained fraternal relations continuously with European ecclesiastical bodies down to the middle of the eighteenth century, when they turned to the first American Lutheran synod in America, organized in Pennsylvania, for oversight. There were never any indications on the part of the people of a desire to perpetuate European ways in this country, a principle which obviated any difficulties in their adjustment to the dominant Dutch Reformed environ- ment. As a matter of fact, in outward form there appeared to be little differ- ence between the Lutheran congregations and those of the Dutch Reformed, for the church services and church government were similar in both. The earliest attempt, so far as is known, to get at the Lutheran records in Holland, was made by the Reverend John Nicum, d.d. (1851-1 909). 3 In the 1890's, Dr. Nicum investigated the archives in the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam, and secured handwritten transcripts of about thirty pages of the earliest records there. 4 They appear to have been used in several articles which he subsequently published, but he did not cite the sources specifically. 5 3 Author of Geschichte des Evangelisch-Lutherischen Ministeriums vom Staate New York, Reading, Pa., 1888, 636 p. 4 These transcripts were found in 1935 among his papers in the archives of The United Lutheran Synod of New York, as also a MS article based upon them, "The Dutch Lutherans on Manhattan," 20 p. typewritten, single-spaced. 5 In "The Lutheran Church in the City of Greater New York," in The Lutheran Church Review, 1907, 26:1-6; and "The Beginnings of the Lutheran Church on Manhattan Island," in Papers of the American Society of Church History, 2nd series, 1910, 2:85-101. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 7 One other historian, Julius F. Sachse ( 1842-1919 ) , used a few of the items in this collection which pertained to the first quarter of the eighteenth cen- tury, in his monograph Justus Falckner, published in 1903. 6 None of the general American Lutheran histories, however, down to the present time, has made use of any of the unpublished records, and apparently even the few transcripts secured by Nicum were unknown. 7 The endeavor to secure the entire collection was made in 1935, by the Committee on Documentary History of The United Lutheran Synod of New York. Two years previously, a special committee had been appointed by the Synod to prepare for the celebration in 1936 of the 150th anniversary of the organization of the Ministerium of New York. A sub-committee (which later became the Synod's Committee on Documentary History ) , under the chairmanship of the Reverend George L. Kieffer, d.d., ll.d. (1883-1937), was charged with the preparation of a suitable documentary history of New York Lutheranism. Under the enthusiastic leadership of Dr. Kieffer, the sub-committee went to work aggressively to assemble the documentary material. It was soon discovered, however, that most of the records for the colonial period were not available in this country, and it was suspected that there were some in foreign archives not even known to exist. 8 To the writer was assigned the responsibility of making a complete in- ventory of all existing records for the colonial period in American and European archives, and to secure photographic reproductions of those in Europe. The most formidable aspect of that assignment had to do with the collection in the Amsterdam Lutheran Church. Notes made by Dr. Nicum, which were found among his papers in the archives of the Synod of New York, indicated definitely that there was much more in Amsterdam than the few transcripts which he had secured. The prospect of securing a complete knowledge of these records was hardly a hopeful one. There were no funds available for traveling to Holland to make a personal inspection of the archives. Correspondence with church authori- ties there elicited no enthusiasm for digging among uncatalogued records of nearly three centuries ago to satisfy the curiosity of American researchers of this late date, particularly since the elderly archivist there had died, and no one had been appointed in his place. 6 Philadelphia, 1903, 141 p. 7 The complete collection was used for the first time in the writer's doctoral dissertation at Columbia University, entitled Lutheranism in Colonial New York, New York City, 1942, 159 p. 8 This was found true, for example, in the case of the large collection of records in Hamburg, Germany, relating to New York Lutheranism in the second and third quarters of the eighteenth century. The existence of this collection had been wholly unknown. 8 The New York Public Library Nearly two years of fruitless effort elapsed, and then, in the summer of 1937, came the first sign of progress. A new archivist of the Amsterdam Church had been appointed, in the person of Mr. Simon Hart, of the City Archives of Amsterdam. In August of 1937, the Executive Committee of the Lutheran World Convention held its meeting in the city of Amsterdam, and one of the American delegates was the Reverend Abdel Ross Wentz, ph.d., President of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg and an outstanding American Lutheran historian. Dr. Wentz and Mr. Hart met in Amsterdam, and the keen interest of both men resulted in a preliminary catalogue and in the agreement of Mr. Hart to make photostatic copies of the collection. The gracious offer of Mr. Hart to make the complete collection available was faithfully carried out up to the time of the Nazi invasion of Holland in 1940, when all correspondence was cut off. His diligent search brought to light almost 400 pages of material, for the years 1649 to 1772, comprising the correspondence between the colonial Lutheran leaders and the Amsterdam Consistory, together with the minutes of that body relating to its oversight of the churches in the colony. It appears that the collection is complete, with the exception of a few items which were discovered too late to be photo- graphed or transcribed prior to the Nazi invasion. All the records are in Dutch, except some 60 pages in German and a few pages in Latin and English. To facilitate the work of translating the Dutch records (before there was assurance that Mr. vanLaer could be secured ) , Mr. Hart generously under- took to make typewritten transcripts of the photostats. These he completed just prior to the Nazi invasion, though his last shipment of about 100 pages of the photostats, accompanied by the transcripts, for the years 1649-1669, never reached this country. Fortunately, precautions had been taken at this end to guard against any possible loss. Mr. Hart had already sent all the photostats before he offered to transcribe them, and had then asked that they be returned to him for his greater convenience. Before returning them, the writer photographed the entire collection on micro-film, and when the last consignment was lost in transit the micro-film made possible its restoration. For the translations of the Dutch records, it had been hoped for some time to secure the services of Mr. Arnold J. H. vanLaer, but his schedule of work as Archivist of the State of New York made it impossible for him to undertake the work in such spare time as he had available. Meanwhile, Mrs. Elizabeth Lips, of Yonkers, New York, who had had training in Holland, generously made preliminary translations of the whole collection, in order to permit a The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 9 clearer estimate of its value. It was only upon Mr. vanLaer's retirement in 1940 that he felt he could undertake the task of making the final translations, and these were completed by the close of 1942. The intimate association of the writer with Mr. vanLaer in the course of the translations made vividly clear the reason for the latter 's eminence as a scholar of first rank, in the painstaking care with which every page was completed. The German records, embracing the years 1724-1771, were transcribed by the Reverend Walter M. Ruccius, of Hempstead, New York. His previous work in the eighteenth-century period of the Lutheran Church in both Europe and America assured accurate transcripts, a fact favorably com- mented upon by Mr. vanLaer. The translation of the German items was begun by the Reverend Henry T. McKnight, of New Haven, Connecticut, but because of his added duties upon becoming president of the New Eng- land Conference of the Synod, he had to relinquish his work on the records. Mr. vanLaer, having completed the Dutch material, thereupon translated the German items. The three items in Latin, for 1703, were transcribed and translated by the Reverend Charles O. Thompson, of Yonkers, New York, and his care to maintain accuracy is known to the writer. The matter of publication of the collection brought increasing concern as the translations were nearing completion. At best, it would have meant years of delay, because of the limited funds at the disposal of the Synod's Committee, and there was always the fear that future conditions might stop it altogether and relegate the completed work to a file in the archives. It was, therefore, with genuine delight that the Synod, and especially its Committee on Documentary History, received the offer of The New York Public Library, through Messrs. Robert W. Hill, Keeper of Manuscripts, and Deoch Fulton, Editor of the Library's Bulletin, to publish the translations. It will now be possible for the Synod's Committee to proceed immediately with the tran- scription and translation of other collections of records on its docket. 9 In the use of the published translations, the following notes may be helpful: It is understood that the originals of all records are in Dutch, unless another language is noted. Footnotes that are interpretations of the text were made by Mr. vanLaer, the translator. For all other footnotes full responsibility is assumed by the editors, Messrs. Hill and Fulton of The New York Public Library, and the writer. 9 The Committee is now at work on the records of the Lutheran Church in Hamburg, previously mentioned. 10 The New York Public Library The entire collection of photostats, typewritten transcripts, and the originals of the translations, have been deposited by the Synod of New York in The New York Public Library, Manuscript Division, for the convenience of scholars. The original records are represented by about 340 pages of photostats, and some 50 pages of typewritten transcripts of material not photographed, comprising mainly the briefer items in the Consistory Minutes. In addition, there are transcripts of some of the photostats from 1649-1669 and of all the photostats after 1669. Concerning the originals of letters sent from the Amsterdam Consistory to New York, diligent search has resulted only in the regrettable conviction that they no longer exist. It is difficult to express adequately the grateful appreciation due the many persons through whose efforts the present publication is made possible: To the Reverend Doctor Ellis B. Burgess, President of the Synod, 1934-1939, for his interest and encouragement in prosecuting the work of the Com- mittee; to the Reverend Doctor Samuel Trexler, present President, and the Reverend Doctor Paul C. White, Secretary of the Synod, for a similar interest and encouragement in bringing to completion the present project; to Mrs. Lips and the gentlemen whose specific contributions, so generously made, have been recorded on the foregoing pages; and last, but not least, to Mrs. Lillian Andresen, the writer's secretary, for her faithful work during the past eight years on the voluminous correspondence entailed in this task. r DOCUMENTS Documents MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. October 12, 1649 Absent: Ordinary Tuesday Consistorial meeting of the reverend pastors, deputed Mr. Pieter Hunthum elders and leaders 1 of this community, 2 held on the 12th of October Anno 1649. 1. There was opened and read the letter 3 from some members in New Neth- erland, who declared themselves to be adherents of our religion of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, requesting that they may be supplied there with a pastor. It is decided to keep this matter, as being of far-reaching consequence, under consideration, in order later, after mature deliberation, to take action thereon and accordingly to make such answer as shall be found proper. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory. (Old) No. 1, fol. 80. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. October 19, 1649 Absent: Ordinary Tuesday Consistorial meeting of the reverend pastors, deputed Messrs. Visscher elders and leaders of this community, on Friday the 19th of October Cordes Anno 1649. Philips Pelt 1. There was taken up again and considered further the letter and request of those who acknowledge themselves to be members of the community of our Confession in New Netherland, [department] of West India, heretofore made and delivered to this body. And it was decided not to hasten with the final resolution and answer concerning its contents, as it is a matter of far- reaching consequence and the most serious consideration to engage therein, in view of the state of the country and the situation of our churches at this juncture of time. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory. (Old) No. 1, fol. 81. o « o PETITION of the Lutherans in New Netherland to the States General. October 1, 1653 Noble, High and Mighty Lords, the States General of the United Netherlands. Increase of honor, welfare and a prosperous reign! Noble, High and Mighty Lords, our Sovereigns: We, members of the community adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, your High 1 Voorstanders. 2 Gemeente; may also be translated as congregation though that connotes a definitely organized church. 3 This letter, unfortunately, does not appear to be in the Amsterdam Lutheran Church Archives. On the matter of the relationship between Lutheranism in New Netherland and Europe, see Harry Julius Kreider, Lutheranism in Colonial New York (New York, 1942), 3-12. [ 13] 14 The New York Public Library Mightinesses' faithful and obedient subjects, residing under the jurisdiction of New Netherland, on the Manhatans, at Fort Orange, as well as on Long Island, being about 150 heads of families strong, hereby humbly shew with all due reverence and submissiveness that we, finding ourselves from divers lands of Europe in these parts of America, some having lived here somewhat longer than others, have never enjoyed the exercise of our religion of the Augsburg Confession. Inasmuch, therefore, as our souls are longing and thirsting for a capable and faithful pastor of the Augsburg Confession, we hereby humbly pray and beseech your noble High Mightinesses with all due reverence and submissiveness to grant us the favor that the exercise of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession may flourish here in these parts, likewise as by the kind toleration of your High Mightinesses it flourishes in the Netherlands, which will tend to the glory of the Holy Trinity, to the salvation of our souls and to the benefit and prosperity of this country here, causing it more and more to flourish and to become populated. Which being maturely considered by your High Mightinesses, we trust and doubt not but your High Mightinesses will be pleased to grant our prayer and petition and kindly consent that the doctrine of the Augsburg Confession may like- wise be publicly taught and practised here in this country and that a pastor of the said faith, maintained at our own expense, may be tolerated. This being done, we shall, as heretofore, be under obligation to pray for your High Mightinesses' welfare and prosperous reign. And we remain in all quietness and respect your noble High Mightinesses' faithful and obedient subjects. Manhatans, N: Amsterdam, this first of October 1653. [Addressed:] To the Noble, High and Mighty Lords, the States General of the United Netherlands in 's-Gravenhage Original in the Algemeen RijksaTchief at The Hague, coo PETITION of the Lutherans in New Netherland to the Directors of the West India Company, Chamber at Amsterdam. October 1, 1653 Honorable, Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen. In- crease of honor, welfare and a prosperous administration! Gentlemen: We, your honorable worships' faithful and humble [members] of the community adhering to the Augsburg Confession, residing under your honors' jurisdiction in New Netherland, on the Manhatans, at Fort Orange, as well as on Long Island, now about 150 heads of families strong, hereby humbly shew with all due reverence and submissiveness that we, finding The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 15 ourselves in these parts of America a small group of people from divers lands of Europe, some having lived here somewhat longer than others, have never enjoyed the exercise of our religion of the Augsburg Confession. And whereas our souls are longing and thirsting for a capable and faithful pastor of the Augsburg Confession, therefore, we humbly pray and beseech your honors with all due reverence and submissiveness kindly to allow us and to grant us permission to plant here in this country the exercise of the Augsburg Confession, and at our own expense to procure a good and faithful pastor, which will serve for the glory of God, the salvation of our souls and also for the advantage and benefit of these places in helping to populate them more and more. We trust and doubt not that after mature consideration thereof by your honors and upon the good report of our director, the Honorable Petrus Stuyvesant concerning the comportment of all of us here, our humble and respectful petition will be granted by your honors and that you will kindly allow and permit us here in these places the public worship, together with a pastor, of those adhering to the Augsburg Confession. This being granted, we shall be more and more obligated to pray for your honors' welfare and prosperous administration. We remain your honors' most faithful and humble subjects. Manhatans, N: Amsterdam, the first of October 1653. [Addressed:] To the Honorable, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent Gentlemen, the Directors of the Chartered West India Company, at the Chamber at Amsterdam Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. o « » LETTER from the Lutherans in New Netherland to the Consistory at Amsterdam. October 4, 1653 Reverend, Estimable, Highly Learned Pastors, and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Leaders and Overseers 4 of the Community of the Augsburg Confession: We, the community adhering to the Augsburg Confession in these New Netherlands, wish you happiness and salvation. It is about five years ago that some members of our community here were sent to your honors for advice and assistance as to how in these American regions in New Netherland we might obtain a pastor and the public exercise of religion according to the Augsburg Confession. But it seems that at the 4 Voorstanders ende Opperhoofden. 16 The New York Public Library time no binding agreement had been made among us in general and that for this reason these delegated persons were unable to accomplish anything with your honors for the attainment thereof. Hence, some of our people, not persevering in the faith, who undoubtedly had the largest means, withdrew. Therefore, once again, but this time in writing, we seek and ask your honors' help and beg and pray that your honors be pleased to exert your- selves in our behalf to such an extent and to employ all means and efforts (as we, likewise, through the honorable Director Petrus Stuyvesant here, who is to be the sender hereof, by petition have requested the High and Mighty Lords the States General, our sovereigns, and the honorable Directors of the Chartered West India Company, our patrons), that the doctrine of the Augsburg Confession, together with a preacher thereof, may be tolerated here, in view of the fact that yearly, by the ships arriving here, we are being strengthened by people of our faith. It is lamentable and a great sorrow to the steadfast that owing to the lack of free exercise of our religion so many of us have struck out on other paths, which they never knew before, whether they were fit to walk on or not. Therefore, in order still to prevent this in time, that no more persons may forsake the faith and that this undertaking and work may be the more firmly promoted, we have unanimously decided, first, to inform our authori- ties thereof by prayer and petitions, of which copies are enclosed herewith, and have then made an agreement whereby a pastor of this requested religion may receive an honest and reasonable salary from us. Your honors may find out whether the petitions sent to their High Mighti- nesses and the honorable Directors have been delivered by our Director, or concealed. If concealed, your honors will please seal these open copies sent to your honors with some sealing wax and deliver them in our name to their High Mightinesses as well as to the honorable Directors of the West India Company, and receive their apostil thereon. And, having received an apostil [in the form] of Yes, to look around where your honors may call a suitable pastor (who is graduated, unmarried, learned, eloquent and of irreproachable life and conduct), in order to send him to us. His duties with us would be, not only to preach, marry and baptize, but also at first to be employed as precentor (voorsanger) in the church, for which services we hereby promise to pay him at first, because the congregation here is not yet organized and therefore has no cash on hand, a salary of eight hundred guilders 5 a year, once, together with free dwelling and fuel, as is customary 5 $320. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 17 at other places, until with the blessing of God we may increase in number. Furthermore, he need not be ashamed to teach our children, from which he may also have the income. This, faithful pastors and overseers, is what we are requesting of your honors, trusting that your honors for the love of our community and the glory of God will exert yourselves as much as possible and by word and deed help promote our cause, in order that we may at last enjoy what for a long time we have been longing for with our hearts and souls. Pray for it also in your church that this earnest request of ours may have its effect. God will no doubt grant his blessing thereto. With greetings to your honors as well as to the congregation from all the brethren of the community in this country, we hereby commend your honors and the congregation to God's protection and beg to be remembered in your honors' and the congregation's prayers. Actum, Manhatans, this 4th of October Anno 1653. [Signed:] Daniel Litscho HlNDRICK WlLLEMSEN Chrysteyan Babensen Mattheus Capito m[anu] p[ro]pria VOLCKART JANSZ Harman Aedu [Eduardsen?] P. S. We hereby also notify your honors that on this day, the 4th instant, our petitions were handed to the honorable Director here, in order to send them for us to our authorities. Whereupon the honorable Director gave for answer that inasmuch as he had taken an oath in Holland before the supreme authorities not to allow any other religion to be established in this country, he would not obstruct us therein if we ourselves could obtain per- mission to do so from the supreme authorities. It appears, therefore, that in this initial request God is granting us his blessing, so that we hope that with your honors' co-operation God will grant the good effect of this undertaking. We, therefore, once more urgently pray your honors to promote these matters with all diligence, to the glory of God, the salvation of our souls and the propagation of the Church of the Augsburg Confession. This doing, we remain obligated to offer up our diligent prayers for your honors' welfare and the prosperity and growth of the congregation there. 18 The New York Public Library And if in connection with our request any expenses should be incurred by your honors and the congregation there for the accomplishment of our purpose, your honors will please write us about it; we bind ourselves to refund the same in good faith. Valete ut supra. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. o « » MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. January 20, 1654 Meeting as above, held on Tuesday, the 20th of January 1654. 2. There was read the writing brought and presented by Paulus Schricken, who arrived here in this country from New Netherland, from and in the name of some members of our community there, requesting us to exert means and efforts in their behalf in order that they obtain there a pastor of our Confession and be admitted to public worship. Which, being sub- mitted to deliberation and the said Schricken having been heard on the subject, he is advised, in view of the dangerous consequences thereof, not to address himself to the High and Mighty Lords the States General, nor to the Directors of the West India Company, but that he should quietly seek to contract with someone to go thither for the purpose above men- tioned. For which this Consistory hereby promises to lend him the helping hand. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory. (Old) No. 1, fol. 212 sq. o o e MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. April 13, 1655 Absent: Mr. Ligarius Meeting as above, held on Tuesday, the 13th of April Anno 1655. Mr. Lucas Arentsz 1. There appeared Paulus Schricken, having some time ago arrived here in this country from New Netherland, who, as he is about to depart to return thither at the first opportunity, requests that he may be given a letter in reply to the communication from some members of our community in New Nether- land, which was presented by him to this Consistory on the 20th of January 1654. Whereupon, the resolution passed on the 20th of January aforesaid on the said letter being taken up again, I, the Secretary, in consequence thereof and in accordance with the instructions received, was ordered to reply. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory. (Old) No. 1, fol. 247. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 19 LETTER from the Consistory at Amsterdam to the Lutherans at the Man- hatans. May 4, 1655 Reverend, pious, attentive and very loving friends and brethren in Christ: Your agreeable letter of the 4th of October 1653 last past was delivered to us by Poulus Schrick, from which we see and learn with joy the good inclination, zeal and diligence of you all toward the propagation and upbuilding of the church of Christ. We praise you in the highest manner for this laudable zeal and recommend you to continue therein, holding ourselves obligated and be- ing also heartily inclined on our part to contribute thereto and to the best of our ability to use all means to promote the said good work by word and deed. As to our advice and counsel regarding the presentation and delivery of the two distinct petitions sent over, one to the high and Mighty Lords the States General of the United Netherlands and the other to the honorable directors of the Chartered West India Company here, to obtain freedom of the public exercise of religion, we are of opinion and fear that the presen- tation thereof will hurt rather than promote your cause and intention and that they would only be thrown into the fire, since we daily and more and more find it to be the maxim of our high as well as lower authorities that on the subject of religion, other than their own, they are willing to connive to some extent and to overlook, but never, or very rarily, directly, by apostil, to give their consent to the public exercise thereof, for which reason we have kept your petitions in our custody. That, by the grace of God, we, here in this country, under our laudable regents, 6 freely and unmolested practise and exercise our religion, this has likewise come about in no other way than in length of time, by connivance, and we advise you to follow this example. We wish that we could supply you with such a person as you desire for your spiritual leader, but at present we know of no available person who might be suitable and inclined thereto. If, in the future, any opportunity to do so should occur, we shall not fail to take advantage of it and to remember you. Meanwhile, you may as far as possible, by meeting among yourselves, keep the community and members of Christ together and seek to increase their number. May the Lord by the power of his reverend Holy Spirit jointly grant you the strength and capacity thereto, wherewith we faithfully com- mend you all to his gracious protection. Valete, Amsterdam, the 4th of May 1655. [Addressed:] To the joint members of the Christian community adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, at the Manhatans, in New Netherland. By a friend whom may God conduct. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio of documents received and drafts of documents sent out. 6 Regenten; meaning local magistrates, or members of the city government. 20 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. June 13, 1656 Ordinary Consistory meeting held as above on Tuesday, 13th of June Anno 1656 5. It being reported by Messrs. Gerrit Hilbrants and Joan de Ligt that, upon the complaint of the Christians and members in New Netherland made in their last letter received [from them], about the harsh proceedings and persecutions committed and instituted there against their religion, they had, to facilitate the said work, called on and spoken to some of their friends among the Directors of the West India Company and that they had been given good hope of obtaining free exercise of religion for the Christians in the aforesaid regions, the aforesaid Messrs. Hilbrants and de Ligt, together with Mr. Johannes Wybrants, were thereupon, in the name of this Consistory, requested and appointed [to act as] a committee for the promotion and attainment of this good and desirable object. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory. (Old) No. 1, fol. lOv. LETTER from the Lutherans in New Netherland to the Consistory at Am- sterdam. November 1, 1656 Reverend, Estimable, Highly Learned Pastors, and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Leaders and Overseers of the Community of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. Salute! Your honors' favor, dated June 14, 1656, 7 was duly delivered to us on the 5th of September last. Having noted its contents according to our best judgment and poor understanding, we, as obedient and faithful subjects, neither could nor wished to omit to address ourselves to our authorities here in this country, being very desirous to practice our religion with reading and singing by means of meetings as heretofore. We have therefore presented a petition, informing them of the toleration of our religion by the honorable Directors of the West India Company, our patrons, whereupon they have granted us an apostil, stating that this our petition would be sent by them to the honorable Directors and the truth thereof ascertained. However, until further order, they would abide by their formerly observed ordinance. The copy of the petition presented by us is annexed hereto. Your honors will please observe that the Governor here in this country has, as he says, taken an oath before their High Mightinesses to introduce 7 Copy not found. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 21 here no other religion than that of the Reformed Church, wherefore we trust that we may have the benefit of your honors' wise counsel and action against this. Meanwhile we once more request your honors that your honors may please in our name to look around for a capable pastor and spiritual leader, upon such conditions as heretofore offered, and to send such person to us. It is to be noted that your honors will please send us such person as pastor and spiritual leader by order of their High Mightinesses as our sovereigns and the honorable Directors as our patrons, otherwise the governor of this place would send such person back to Holland. Your honors expect from us written advice as to whether the pastor to be sent to us is to be a Hollander or a German. This, therefore, serves to inform you that, inasmuch as the Dutch language is most commonly used here and our children are also instructed therein, we desire, if possible, to have a Hollander; also one who is well versed in the matter, eloquent, well-learned and godfearing, since among the Reformed here there is a preacher who formerly was a Jesuit and who on that account is very politic and disputatious. The bearer hereof, Mr. Paulus Schrick, can verbally give your honors fuller information about our affairs here. And if, as we expect, any expenses should be incurred by your honors on our account, your honors will please write us about it and we shall in all reasonableness reimburse you for the same. We hereby commend your honors to God's protection and ourselves to your honors' prayers. Amsterdam in New Netherland, this first of November 1656. Your honors' most faithful servants adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, hlnderick wlllem bockker hans dreper Crysteyan Barensen Hans Kettell Casper Steinmets Mattheus Capito m[anu] p[ro]pria Pieter Kock I B the mark of Jochem Beeckman Heinrich Heinrichsz Davit Wesels Lorens Andres [Addressed:] Reverend, Pious and Highly Learned Pastors and Honorable, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Leaders and Overseers of the Community of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. [Endorsed: ] N: Netherland — dated the first of November 1656 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. 22 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. April 2, 1657 Extraordinary meeting of the honorable pastors, deputed elders and eldest councilors, 8 held on Easter Monday, the second of April 1657, in the forenoon, after the church service. 3. It was reported and stated by the Committee that, although heretofore hopes had been entertained of obtaining from the honorable Directors of the Chartered West India Company here or others a certain order or apostil whereby those of our Confession in New Netherland would be granted free and public exercise of their religion, there appeared at present to be no chance thereof, but that by one person and another it had been suggested in private that in case we sent a pastor thither, public worship would doubt- less be tolerated by connivance and closing of the eye. It was thereupon further resolved that, pursuant to the request made by the members of our Confession in New Netherland aforesaid and the power thereto conferred in their letter upon this Consistory, we would at the first opportunity try to secure a capable and pious person and in their name extend a call to him, which is left to the care of the council of pastors and deputies. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory. (Old) No. 2, fol. 88, 89. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. April 3, 1657 Absent: Messrs. Cordes Ordinary Consistory meeting, held on Tuesday, the third of April 1657. and Bloem 1. M agister Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, 9 with the approval and after communication with Mr. Paulus Schreck, was offered and tendered the service and call of New Netherland, to go thither and hold the charge of pastor there, under the conditions and offer made and promised by the members there in their writing heretofore sent for that purpose to this Con- sistory, which was read to the said D[omin]us Goetwasser. And he declared that he wished to consider the matter in communion with God and gave hope that he would accept the said charge. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory. (Old) No. 2, fol. 89. 8 Outste raden. 9 i.e. Gutwasser. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 23 LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutherans in New Nether- land. April 10, 1657 Reverend, attentive friends and very dear brethren in Christ: Whereas upon receipt of your letter and the request made therein for the obtainment of free exercise of religion in New Netherland we have made several solicitations and requests on the subject to the honorable Directors of the West India Company here and to other persons, we have succeeded therein to this extent that, although we cannot get any written document to that effect, the majority of the said gentlemen have nevertheless promised that the same will be tolerated there by connivance, as it is here in this country. We have thereupon, after communication with Mr. Paulus Schrick, your delegate, in accordance with the order thereto heretofore given to us by your letter, inquired about a capable and pious person to go thither as your regular spiritual leader and pastor and subsequently called thereto the reverend and learned Magister Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, the bearer hereof, who in the fear of the Lord has also accepted the said call, upon the conditions and terms offered thereto by you, which have been read to him from your letter, to wit, that for his regular salary he is to receive eight hundred guilders a year, together with free dwelling and fuel, which, pro- visionally, a few of you have thereby been willing to offer and make known. We request that you accept, honor and respect him as such and that you will, not only faithfully fulfill the conditions promised to him, but also as far as possible lend him all aid and assistance. We doubt not that on his part he will conduct himself in such a way that it will tend to the glory of God and the propagation of the church, for which may the Almighty grant his grace and blessing. We shall hereafter more fully inform you of everything, as there is no time at present and the ships are lying ready to sail. Meanwhile, we commend you and the entire congregation to God's gracious protection and guidance and remain, with our Christian greetings . . . Quite hastily. Amsterdam, the [1]0 of April 1657 10 Draft without signatures in Amst. Luth. Ch. Archives. * # » 10 For date, cf. letter of Sept. 8, 1657. 24 The New York Public Library RESOLUTION of the Director General and Council of New Netherland. July 14, 1657 11 Extract from the Register of Resolutions of the Hon. Director General Copy and Council of New Netherland passed at their honors' meeting on Saturday, the 14th of July 1657. Whereas the pretended Lutheran pastor on this date did not appear before the Director General and Council and it is reported by the court messenger sent to him at his lodgings that he had sailed on the flute-ship Het Draetvat, it is decided to have the court messenger serve notice on him that he is not to hold any conventicles within this province, either directly or indirectly, nor within the same to perform any manner of religious services, whether by preaching or by administering the sacraments; and, in order that he may not pretend ignorance thereof, at the same time to deliver to him a copy of the latest renewed order on that subject, with notice that he must govern himself precisely in accordance therewith. Dated ut supra, Amsterdam in New Netherland. [Underneath was written:] Agrees with the aforesaid resolution. [And was signed:] C. v. Ruyven, Secretary Translated from photostat received from the Archives of the Evangelical Lutheran Church at Amsterdam. o o o LETTER from Rev. Johannes E. Gutwasser to the Amsterdam Consistory. August [14], 1657 ' Reverend, Dearly Beloved Brethren in Christ, and Honorable, Very Dis- creet Elders, kind patrons and very affectionate friends. Greetings! Together with the news of my safe arrival at New Amsterdam and the great joy of the Christian congregation, I hereby must and will write to your reverences how the authorities here begin to use all diligence to prevent us from exercising the authentic, true and pure religion. Of the passing of ordinances and the imposing of heavy fines against holding private and public meetings, to throw a scare among the congregation, there is no lack. At my appearance before the honorable Council, and especially before the honorable Director General Stiebsandt, 12 they listened very little to reason. Two ordinances have been sent by them to my house, to govern myself 11 This copy was enclosed with the letter to the Consistory dated Oct. 21, 1657. 12 Petrus Stuyvesant. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 25 precisely in accordance therewith. They do as they please. General Stieb- sandt, as he expressly pretends, not only will and intends to observe the orders of the Directors of the West India Company, but also requires the consent of the honorable High and Mighty Lords the States [General], and if orders came from both not to molest us here, he would quit his post, as such orders would conflict with his oath. He only seeks by such excuses to hold us up for a considerable time. The principal reasons for their hatred and opposition are that they presume that in such case their plan and in- tention, in time, by sweet whistling, to convert to their religion the children who have been baptized by them, will be a failure and, secondly, that in case of separation their churches will lose many incidental benefits. By the ship De Wage we expect agreeable news from your reverences. In case with it no orders to the honorable Director General Stiebsandt and the Council come from the Lords States as well as from the honorable Di- rectors of the West India Company not to stop the exercise of our religion, there is no hope whatever and we are powerless and all petitions will be in vain. Therefore, the Christian congregation very earnestly pray and desire that your reverences will further take them to your heart and be pleased to consider their present situation. This work must be forwarded in earnest and with all possible force, but if the heavy cares of your office do not permit your reverences to do so, it might be found well to ordain a capable and wise person to devote himself absolutely to the furtherance and better exe- cution of this highly important work. If he applies himself with all diligence to the task of obtaining, not only from the honorable Directors, but especially also from the Lords States, a categorical Yes, that at the first opportunity we may here freely and without hindrance exercise our religion, I doubt not of speedy success. However, if it should come to the worst and they should refuse to promote the welfare of the country, I hope that the Lords States will yet pay some heed to requests, particularly royal ones and those from higher potentates of our faith. The costs you will please have recorded; they will be refunded with thanks. For your information this also serves to say that the rumor goes that General Stiebsandt, who is the factotum, is next spring to depart for Holland. I wish that before his departure a writing might come from Holland, ordering him to grant us freedom of worship; otherwise, after his departure, there will be no end of people leaving here. Nevertheless, the aforesaid General, in the presence of the Lords States and the honorable Directors will try to say all that is to his advantage and to our disadvantage. But God's will be done. We faithfully commend you all to his faithful protection and, next to God, 26 The New York Public Library leave everything to your reverences' prudence and care. May our merciful God dispose things in such a way that thereby his glory and the edification of his believers may be promoted and that we here may now and forever laud Him, sing his praises and render thanks unto Him. Valete. Done, August 1657. 13 Your reverences' faithful servant, [Signed:] M[agister] Johan[n]es Ernestus Goetwasser [On the back was written: ] To the Reverend, Estimable and Highly Learned Pastors and the Honorable, Prudent and Very Discreet Elders and leaders ( voorstaenders ) of the Christian community ad- hering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Am- sterdam. [A seal in red wax, representing a crossbow, has a crest consisting of an arrow, which on each side is accompanied by an initial: on the dexter side an F, and on the sinister side an H.] [Endorsed: ] 1657 N. Netherland. Received in Consistory the 31st 8 bris . Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. RESOLUTION of the Director General and Council of New Netherland. September 4, 1657 Extract from the register of Resolutions of the honorable Director General and Council of New Netherland, passed at their honors' meeting on Tuesday, 4 September 1657. Johannis Ernestus Goetwasser, who styles himself, and in private letters from the fatherland is styled, "Lutheran pastor at Amsterdam in New Nether- land," without, however, exhibiting for that qualification any proof from political or ecclesiastical authorities in our fatherland (in conformity with the practice and order observable there and also here ) , and who, therefore, for these and other pregnant reasons, is not to be admitted here or elsewhere within [the limits of] this government, is in the first place requested, or else hereby ordered, by the first ships to return to the fatherland. Actum, Fort Amsterdam in N. Netherland, date ut supra. Agrees with the aforesaid resolution C. v. Ruyven, Secretary Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America [Inclosure of letter of Sept. 8, 1657] 13 In letter of October 23, 1657, the date is given as August 14th. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 27 LETTER from Rev. Johannes E. Gutwasser to the Amsterdam Consistory. September 8, 1657 Reverend, Most Beloved Brethren in Christ, and Honorable and Very Discreet Elders, kind friends and very worthy patrons: In the letter of August 14th your reverences were briefly informed of what it was necessary to know about us. Hereby we advise your reverences of the continual tragedy which is inflicted upon us by the magistrates of these New Netherland places by the rigorous prohibition of all conventicles, whether private or public, and how we thus far neither hold nor intend to hold any meeting or religious services contrary to the published ordinance, on pain of forfeiture of 100 pounds Flemish 14 in general, or 25 pounds for each person who is found to be present, living mostly in hope and expectation of good tidings promised us by the previous letter dated April 10th. The ship De Wage lately arrived here, but brought no letter from your reverences. This has caused great concern among the community. On the 4th of Sep- tember I appeared before the supreme Council. I produced a letter from my brother, bearing the superscription "Lutheran pastor in New Nether- land," but [the Council] thinking that it was from a Reverend, Highly Venerable Consistory, it was resolved, in view of this title, to send [me] back without fail to the Hague, to the Lords States, since this governor, Stiebsand, had received orders to that effect from the honorable Directors, contrary to the statement heretofore made by me in answer to their question before the honorable Burgomasters in common and to him privately, to wit, that I had come here with the consent of the honorable Directors granted to the committee of the Consistory on their request for toleration of our Unaltered Augsburg Confession in this country, without, however, having any written proof thereof. They concluded that my pretension was nothing but a mere make-shift and consequently ordered me to hold myself in readi- ness to depart again for Holland with several others by the first ship, as may be seen from their accompanying ordinances, although until now nothing in the way of complaints could be brought against me. Upon my protest that as a free person the liberty to live here could, I hoped, not be refused me and, furthermore, that I had heretofore, as being present, already been licensed by the Hon. Director General Stiebsand, they ordered that like other private persons I should under oath protest before the court and submit to other onera civilia, such as guard duty, etc. ]4 One pound Flemish = 6 Dutch guilders, or $2.40. 28 The New York Public Library I could then not kick much against the pricks, since they are here entirely unwilling to listen to pregnant reasons and in an oligarchical republic the good of all must always mean the loss of the individual. Our hope is, next to God, based solely on your reverences' help and prudence. Here, nothing may or can be begun and without the express consent of the High and Mighty Lords the States General and the honorable Directors there is no chance of obtaining in the interim any permission to preach or to undertake any- thing. In sum, the prospect, as far as human eye can see, is very sad, since among those whose interest is at stake, many do not care much. Many are not in earnest, some fear the loss of favor or property, and the burden falls on the few who still trouble themselves about this matter. There is a lack of unity and if some of Fort Orange did not help bear the expense I could hardly be supported. But the worst of it all is that all admonition is dis- regarded. Meanwhile, I shall do what I can, in order that I may render a good account and appear with a good conscience before the judgment seat of God and be found worthy. Meanwhile, General Stiebsand will prevent, and has already diligently begun to prevent, people as much as he pleases from entering the jurisdiction of this country. He also seeks by plausible arguments, [while we are] all ready to sail, to obtain from the High and Mighty Lords the States [General] a rejection of our request, which, it is to be feared, will find a more favorable reception than may be accorded to us. But in case the employment of these means should prove fruitless and be null and vain, he desires to be freed and released from his oath to permit, in conformity with the articles and provisions of the Synod of Dordrecht, no other religion but that of the Reformed Church; furthermore, that their High Mightinesses and the honorable Directors of the West India Company will order that he be discharged from his office. By these two important points he intends, even if there came such an order from the Hague, from the Lords States, to hold us up at least for a considerable time and thus, by long delay, to break up the feeble bond of union among us, assuming, no doubt, that the principal people are already weak and many indifferent and, therefore, that the proper contribution toward defraying the expenses must finally fail. 15 May God the Lord be with us [and let everything suc- ceed]. 16 We shall not fail [to call upon Him earnestly and diligently] that it may please Him to send us help and, in doubling the seals [of the cov- enant?], a Moses. 15 The duplicate of this letter dated September 28, 1657, adds at this point: "so that we may finally be dispersed and our plans come to naught." 16 The words in brackets are supplied from the duplicate letter of Sept. 28, 1657. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 29 It seems mostly to concern the children and young people, who have been baptized by their ministers and whose parents are forced to promise to bring them up in the Reformed Faith. May God the Lord help the oppressed and let those who are pregnant with misfortune and evil intentions bring forth failure. Meanwhile, there is a great longing to hear from your reverences and to learn the course of events in this matter. Until then we shall keep still and quiet, in order to turn away from us all cause for complaint and violence. Closing herewith, I commend your reverences to the gracious protection of the faithful guardian of Israel and remain, after Christian greetings, Your reverences' faithful servant, M [agister] Joh. Ernestus Gutwasser Dat[um], Manhates in New Netherland, 8 Septembris Anno 1657. [Addressed:] To the Reverend, Estimable and Very Learned Pastors, and the Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Elders and leaders of the Christian Community adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. [Endorsed:] 1657 New Netherland Letter received in Consistory J^th Qbris Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. « » » LETTER from Rev. Johannes Gutwasser to the Amsterdam Consistory. Sep- tember 28, 1657 [This letter is a duplicate, with slight variations, of the preceding letter of September 8, 1657. It is endorsed: ] 1658 New Netherland Received in Consistory March 6 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. 30 The New York Public Library PETITION of the Lutherans to the Director General and Council of New Netherland. October 10, 1657. With order thereon, dated October 16, 1657 17 To the Honorable Director General and Council of New Netherland: Shew with due respect, we, the joint members of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, residing here in New Netherland under the jurisdiction of the honorable Directors of the West India Company, that on this date, by order of your honors and the honorable Burgomasters of this city of Amsterdam in New Netherland, first by the court messenger, Gysbert op Dyck, and shortly after by the Hon. Fiscal Nicasius de Sille, verbal notice was served on the Reverend M agister Theologiae Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser that he should and must depart by the ship De Waegh, now lying ready to sail. Wherefore we hereby respectfully inform your honors that, in accordance with the orders and placards posted by your honors and sent to him, he has conducted himself in the matter as an honest person ought to do and has never opposed himself to your honors' orders and posted placards, but at all times has obeyed them, as we also have conducted ourselves therein with all quietness and obedience, expecting 18 from higher hand some toleration of our religion of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, which, according to the letter sent to us we are still expecting. We therefore supplicate your honors that the sudden orders served on Domine Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, one by the court messenger and the second by the fiscal, may remain suspended by your honors until we shall have received further and more definite orders from the fatherland, which may have been sent to us by their High Mightinesses, our Sovereigns, and then by the honorable Directors of the Chartered West India Company. Remaining your honors' faithful and vigilant subjects and good Christians, we, the joint members adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession in New Netherland, have, in the absence of the others, jointly signed this in haste. [Was signed:] Mattheus Capito, Christiaen Niessen, Harmen Eduarsen, Hans Dreper, Laurens Andriesen, Lucas Dirricksen, Jan Jansen, Jochem Beeckman, Andries Laurensen, Andries Rees, Lucas Eldersen, Harmen Jansen, Jan Cornelissen, David Wessels, Hans Sillejonck, Henderick Hendericksen, Meyndert Barentsen, Harmen Smeman, Christiaen Barentsen, George Hamel, Pieter Jansen Winkelhoeck, Claes de Wit, Jacob Elders, Henderick Willemsen. [Marginal notes:] We await hereupon your honors' favorable opinion. Amsterdam] in N: Netherland, this 10th of October 1657. 17 See letter to the Consistory, dated October 21, 1657. 18 The photostat of the copy of the petition in the Lutheran Archives has, apparently by mistake, "not expecting . . . any toleration." The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 31 Serves for apostil: That the Director General and Council do not recognize the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, much less any members thereof. They persist, therefore, in their order and resolution dated the 4th of September, sent more than 5 or 6 weeks ago to Johannes Ernestus Goetwater, who styles himself "Lutheran Pastor at Amsterdam in New Netherland," since which time two ships have sailed, on one of which the aforesaid Goetwater was ordered to depart. As he has neglected to do so in contempt and disregard of the government of this province, he is hereby once more ordered to depart on one of the ships lying ready to sail, the more so as the Director General and Council consider this necessary for the glory of God, for the promotion of the Reformed religion, and the mutual tranquility, peace and harmony of this province. Thus done at the meeting of the Hon. Director General and Council held in Fort Amsterdam in New Netherland, the 16th of October, 1657. [Below was written:] By order of the Hon. Director General and Council above named. [Signed:] C. van Ruyven, Secretary Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. Another translation is in Eccl. Rec. N. Y., Vol. 8, p. 405-7, in which the signature of Andries Laurensen is omitted. o o o LETTER from the Lutherans in New Netherland to the Amsterdam Con- sistory. October 21, 1657 Reverend, Estimable, Highly Learned Pastors, and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Leaders and Overseers of the Congregation of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession. Greetings! Your honors' agreeable letter under date of the 10th of April last, sent to us by the bearer, the Reverend Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, was received and opened by us on the 21st of July. We learned from it your honors' kind sentiments toward us and we shall in the same spirit willingly observe the good advice and admonition given to us by your honors to honor him and to carry out our promises. However, we cannot refrain from acquainting your honors hereby briefly with what has happened to us since that time. In our preceding letter, dated the first of November 1656, we also requested your honors to send us a pastor, with order from their High Mightinesses as well as from the honorable Directors of the Chartered West India Com- pany. The person having safely arrived here, but not having brought with him any certificate, the Director General and Council immediately sent him an injunction, dated the 14th of July, prohibiting him to preach or to hold 32 The New York Public Library any conventicles, together with an ordinance, of which a copy is enclosed herewith, 19 and on the 4th of September ordered him by mandamus to return to the fatherland, as appears by the enclosed copy. Whereupon we, the mem- bers, jointly presented a petition 20 to the Director General and Council, together with a petition of the Reverend Goetwasser, but received nihil for answer, as appears by the enclosed copy. On the 20th of October, we sent the Reverend Goetwasser quietly away to a farmer and if he should be further persecuted by the Director General and Council we shall send him outside the jurisdiction, being about 6 or 8 miles away, under the jurisdiction of the English, to stay there until your honors send us a complete license from the fatherland to practise our religion here unmolested. This, in short, is [what has happened]. We therefore request, yes, beg your honors to be pleased, for our sake, to exert every effort in this matter, in order that our good intention heretofore requested may have its effect, tending to the glory of God and the satisfaction of our consciences. We bind ourselves to repay the same in greater measure according to our ability. Commending your honors all together to God's protection and ourselves to your honors' prayers, we remain, in the name of all the members of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, In haste, Amsterdam, in New Netherland, this 21st of October 1657. [Your honors'] most willing [servants] Mattheus Capito m[anu] p[ro]pria Hinderich Wellemsen Lucas Dircksen Davit Wesels Casper Steestmets Jochem I B Beeckman Crysteyan Barensen [The bearer hereof,] Laurens Andriesen, [will be able] to give [your honors] verbally better information. [Addressed:] Reverend, Highly Learned Pastors and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Leaders and Overseers of the Christian Congregation of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam By a friend whom God preserve. [Endorsed:] 1658 New Netherland Received in Consistory the 6th of March Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America] 1 9 See Ordinance against conventicles, Feb. 1, 1656, of which a translation is printed in Laws and Ordinances of New Netherland, 1638-1674 (Albany, 1868), p. 211-12, and another translation in Ecclesiastical Records State of New York, Vol. 1 ( Albany, 1901 ) , p. 343-44. 20 Dated Oct. 16, 1657, q.v. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 33 LETTER from Rev. Johannes E. Gutwasser to the Amsterdam Consistory. October 23, 1657 Reverend, Most Beloved Brethren in Christ, and Honorable and Very Dis- creet Elders, kind friends and worthij patrons. Greetings! From both my letters, one sent by the ship De Vogelsang, dated the 14th of August, and the other by the Vergoude Moelen, dated the 4th of Sep- tember, your honorable Reverences will have learned at large how we are situated here. I doubt not but my advice under date of August 14th, though simple, yet not without foundation, to wit, to appoint a capable person to look after our affairs before the honorable Directors as well as the Great and High and Mighty Lords the States, to save remonstrating and delay, will have been held by your Reverences in some esteem and as worth con- sidering, because I have some knowledge of the morals and disposition of those who are against us and could almost presume what their intention would be. For the cessation [of effort] herein would be of great detriment to us, since, owing to the long voyage, being an hour or a day too late means being a long time too late, so that one must not procrastinate so, but the more diligently one makes an end thereof, the better it is. Secondly, as there is as yet no union, the number of contributors toward the expenses is small. Here, everything is costly and dear, so that the expenses are great and lack of support is to be feared. Thirdly, General Stiebsand, by immoderate oppo- sition and all sorts of practices in issuing sharp ordinances and imposing heavy fines, seeks to intimidate the rest and it is very necessary that his evil intentions be blocked in time. That in the matter of permitting our religion he wishes to be more conscientious than the Lords States and the honorable Directors appears from the fact that he refuses to be satisfied with the aforesaid consent, but, in addition to the order for permission from the Lords States and the honorable Directors, after release from his oath, also wants that his discharge from office be ordered, so that it must be pre- vented that by the next ship, if he does not go to Holland personally, as it was rumored, he at least, by urgent writings, secure a repulse of our entreaties from the Lords States and the Directors, as is actually being done by the Vergoude Moelen, the documents being signed by the spiritual and temporal authorities, General Stiebsand, the burgomasters and councilors, and the ministers and elders, but I hope that they came too late and were in vain. Meanwhile we are daily expecting glad tidings from your Reverences. This also serves to advise you of the proceedings carried on since that date with our Director General Stiebsand and the Council, in order that you 34 The New York Public Library may report these to the Lords States and the honorable Directors, to wit, that three times in writing and by five messengers in succession verbally I was ordered to depart for Holland, and although the congregation presented a petition against it, signed by about 25 persons, and I also handed in a writing divided into 10 separate points, the same were not answered except by reference to the preceding order to depart. And since General Stiebsand and the Council could find no charges which thev could bring against me, I requested them for the second time to answer mv aforesaid 10 points. But it will not help: force prevails here over right. As time does not permit to seek the same from a higher synod, since the General and Council are resolved to have me nolentem retentem brought on board, therefore, in order to save mv- self from violence, I have, with the consent of the congregation, been obliged to flee from the island of the M annates to a colonv, where I now reside. VMiile I am writing this, the news arrives that the Fiscal has twice tried to find me at my lodgings and to bring me on board if he could, but post festum. For this absence the Horn Secretary has [threatened] me with im- prisonment and the loss of all I possess, but I fear neither of them, as they do this against their conscience and to the prejudice of the entire congre- gation, which is unjustifiable. I am unafraid and rather have injustice done to me than by me. If no good order comes from your Reverences, nothing can be done here bv force. Stiebsand stands on his oath. On the South River, however, he has consent to the exercise of our pure religion and it seems that he is so obstinate through the instigation of the ministers and the murmurs 21 of the Reformed, but it will be the ruin of this country. If your Reverences would request the Council of Amsterdam for an order of toleration of our religion on the South River under their jurisdiction, the same to be licensed there in writing bv General Stiebsand, [we] would move from here thither, if it cannot be obtained here. Tantum ex [fluis?] Pathme. After friendly greetings I remain. Yam Reverences' trilling servant M] agister] Joh. Erxestus Gutwasser Done, the 2Sd of October 1657, in Mitspatskill 22 in New Xetherland. [Addressed:] To the Reverend, Estimable, Learned Pastors and the Hon- orable. Wise and Very Discreet Elders of the Christian Congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession within Amsterdam. [Endorsed:] 1655 "Sew Xetherland Received in Consistory the 6th of March. Amst. Lvth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. 21 He Dutch text has "nnbe." The ward may be intended for "nraimraatie," munners, rr::rsii. :: ::~z-^.Zi 22 Vfaspedi KUl, now Newtown Creek, L. L The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 36 MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. October 31, 1657 Ordinary Consistorial meeting held as above on Wednesday, the 31st of October 1657. 4. There was read the letter received from Dom. Goetwasser from New Netherland and it was ordered to answer the same when convenient accord- ing to the instructions given. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 2, p. 14-3. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. November 4, 1657 Ordinary meeting held as above on Wednesday, the 4th of November Anno 1657. 3. There was read the letter received from Dom. Johannes Ernestus Goet- wasser, pastor of our congregation in New Netherland, and it was ordered to answer the same according to the given instructions and to exhort him to [exercise] forbearance and patience. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 2, p. 147. o o o LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutheran community in New Netherland. December 26. 1657 To the Community in Xew Netherland. Reverend, Attentive, Learned Gentlemen, especially good Friends and very dear Brethren in Christ. The letter written to us by Magister Goetwasser. your spiritual leader, dated the 5th of September last, was duly received by us, from which, as well as from the enclosed extract from the register of resolutions of the honorable Director General and Council of New Netherland, we learn with sorrow the sad and distressful situation of your church. We heartilv wish that we could provide therein as we should wish. According to the promises heretofore made, we have through some delegates from our midst made manv efforts and bv various solicitations and all conceivable favorable re- monstrances pertaining to the matter that were presented in private to some important persons most urgentlv requested and insisted that the friends and Christians of our Confession, residing as colonists of this our free republic in New Netherland, might be granted freedom of conscience and be left un- molested in the exercise of their religion. Whereupon by one person and 36 The New York Public Library another good consolation was offered and it has already been promised that they would write about the matter to the honorable Director Stuyvesandt ( which we trust has in effect also been done ) , and that if the friends would keep quiet and be moderate, the exercise of their religion would no doubt by connivance be allowed to them, but that they would not obtain the same by authority of those in control, as indeed is to be expected and readily com- prehended according to the constitution and the form of government of this country, where none of our churches is tolerated except by connivance. Therefore, our counsel and advice is that the friends during the persecu- tions be pleased to arm themselves with patience and forbearance and that meanwhile, in all stillness, they keep together as far as is possible. Also, that always and in everything they obey their lawful authorities as far as the civil and political government is concerned and this can be done without hurting their conscience, and that by this means and by all friendly, humble and modest supplications to be made by them in common and also, especially, by some of them in private, they seek to gain their good will and to move them to a policy of lenient connivance, for which we shall with your honors implore God in prayer that He may grant his blessing and grace and move the hearts of your honors' magistrates to do what is best. After our Christian and brotherly greetings we hereby commend your honors all together to God's gracious protection and guidance. In Amsterdam, the 26th of December Anno 1657. Your honors' faithful friends and brethren in Christ, the pastors and deputed elders of the Christian congregation there adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession. By order of the same. [Original draft without signature.] Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. » « 4 MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. May 30, 1658 Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Thursday, May 30, 1658 3. There appeared N:, delegate from the congregation of New Netherland, requesting that some one from the midst of this Consistory might be dele- gated and joined to him, in order, with him, according to the preceding resolution passed [by this body], to protest to the honorable Directors of New Netherland against the persecution which is inflicted on our Christians The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 37 there by Director Stuyvesant by reason and on account of their religion, and to request that the Christians of our Confession may hereafter, at least by connivance, be granted permission to exercise their religion. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory o o o LETTER from the Lutherans in New Netherland to the Amsterdam Con- sistory. May 5, 1659 Reverend, Estimable, Highly Learned Pastors, and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Gentlemen, Leaders and Overseers 23 of the Unaltered Augs- burg Confession: We, the joint members adhering to the U[naltered] A[ugsburg] Confession in New Netherland, wish you prosperity and salvation! According to our utmost ability and Christian zeal we have in divers letters, in order to satisfy our consciences, besought and requested your honors that we might have a pastor of the U. A. C. here, who (being the Reverend Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser), by your honors' favor, was sent to us now about two years ago. However, due to the great obstacles placed in his way by the ordinances of this country here, his persecution and interdicts, as well as the custody of him by court messengers and soldiers here, we have had to suffer, although many and divers petitions about it were presented, that he must depart by the first ship that is to sail, to the great sorrow, distress and sadness of many anxious hearts and souls here. However, we must now as heretofore console ourselves. Therefore, we now once more and anew address ourselves to your honors and request that for our sake and out of Christian zeal and diligence you may be pleased to obtain this much from the High and Mighty Lords the States General as well as from the honorable Directors of the Chartered West India Company that we in these regions of New Netherland may at last obtain the free exercise of our religion of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, which we desire with all our hearts. Heretofore, a taste thereof has been given by and to us and we have greater reason, yes, greater than before, for obtaining the same. From the Reverend Goetwasser your honors will learn everything in greater detail, both from the copies kept by him, which have been gathered into a book, and from his verbal report. We trust, as we have always trusted, that your honors will do your utmost duty therein for the propagation of the pure 23 Voorstanders ende Opperhoofden. 38 The New York Public Library doctrine of the U. A. Confession. And having obtained the said toleration, by connivance or otherwise, we also request you to send back to us our now returning pastor above named, since, to our contentment, albeit in isolated hiding places, we have seen and heard sufficient proofs of [his ability to conduct] divine worship. The further expenses in procuring everything we shall gratefully refund to your honors, for we have found in a small way what in time in a large way may be obtained from our people in order to have a treasurv. Closing herewith, we commend your honors, together with all the members there, to God's protection and ourselves to the prayers of your honors and the congregation for the carrying out of our Christian plans. Amsterdam in Xew Xetherland, this 5th of May 1659. [Signed by us] in the absence of the other joint members of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession here in New Xetherland. Mattkeus Capito m[anu] p[ro]pria Davit Wesels CHRYSTYAEX XySSEX HrXDERICK WlLLEMSEN" L B. the mark of Jochum Beekman Barexdt Krudup [Addressed:] To the Reverend, Estimable, Highly Learned Pastors, as well as the Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Voorstanders and Opperhoofden of the community of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. [Endorsed: ] New Xetherland 1659. Received in Consistory the 16th of July Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] PETITIOX" of the Lutherans in Xew Xetherland to the Directors of the West India Company. May 20, 1659 Hon. etc. We, your honors' faithful and obedient adherents of the Ufnaltered] Afugsburg] C[onfession], residing under your jurisdiction in X. Xetherland, on the Manhates, Long Island, Fort Orange and the colonies thereabout, herebv humbly show with due reverence and submissiveness that we, finding ourselves together in these parts of America from different countries of Europe, and thinking of the great and eminent benefits which those of our Faith enjoy under the High and Mighty Lords the States General, our Sov- ereigns, in the United Provinces, by the toleration of the doctrine of the U. A. C., we have already for more than five years written to our Consistory at Amsterdam to petition and solicit for us from the Hon. Directors of the Chartered West India Company, our superiors, the Exercitium Religionis, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 39 which [Consistory], in a letter dated June 14, 1656, informed us that some of our lords [Directors] had advised their committee that it was resolved and decided by them that we here in this country adhering to the U. A. Confession would, like those in patria, be tolerated by connivance. Where- upon, being rejoiced thereat, we made known this report in a petition to the Hon. Director General Petrus Stuyvesant, whose apostil thereon was that he would find out the truth about it, so that he had no objection. We afterwards further wrote to our Consistory and desired that in accord- ance with the promises made by some of our lords Directors they would send us a faithful pastor, which indeed was done in the year 1657, on the 10th of April, about two years ago, but upon his arrival our Hon. Director General expressly declared that, assuming that the Hon. Directors of the West India Company had consented to it, he would nevertheless not allow himself to be dictated to therein by them, inasmuch as he had taken an oath before their High Mightinesses. He thereupon proceeded sharply, had ordi- nances publicly posted against our meetings upon forfeiture of 100 pounds Flemish, drove our spiritual leader from Manhattan Island, served several notices on him to leave the province, threatened to fine those who offered him assistance, had him arrested and placed in the custody of court messen- gers and soldiers and now, finally, has sent him back to the fatherland, which causes us much sorrow and affliction. But since in these two years and as long as our pastor has been in this country many people, thinking that here freedom [of worship] had been obtained for us, have come and still con- tinue to come, we now find ourselves considerably stronger than before; at Fort Orange there are from 70 to 80 families, here at the Manhatans and on Long Island also fully that many, including permanent residents and mechanics, but mostly farmers. As we cannot well leave, yet, without the exercise of religion can still less live, we have, in a petition to our magistrates and the Hon. Director General, requested to grant us a wild, uninhabited place on the island, two or three miles from the Manhatans, or at the ferry, or on Long Island, or at Paulus Hoeck, or wherever it might be, to practise our religion in all quietness and reverence, and this in order that we might not be in their way and that thereby a wild place might be brought under cultivation, but this also has been refused us. We therefore turn to your honors, praying and beseeching you to be pleased to consider among yourselves the welfare and profit of this country, consisting in populating the same, and to inquire how many farmers are already leaving the land, selling their farms and preparing to leave, and how many [others] are auctioning off and selling their houses and so must reluctantly give up 40 The New York Public Library their business. Furthermore, the sight thereof will turn many against this country, who otherwise would have liked it and will even be kept away from it, all of which can be prevented by the toleration of our religion of the U. A. Confession. This, as faithful and vigilant subjects we humbly wished to bring to your honors' attention and we remain your honors' faithful and obedient members adhering to the U. A. Confession in New Netherland, and in the absence of the others we have jointly signed this in haste, the 20th of May 1659, at Manhatans, in N. Netherland. Harmen Yansen Eldert Juryanse van Stenhuse Gerrit Meyer X Peter Jansen X Alrert Jansen Eberhardt Hedeman Mattheus Capito Lucas Dhicksen Chris in Peters Juryen Jansen Marten Hoffman John Seunson Eurt Luc Hans Kettel Is Mensen [J Smensen?] Johan MasTtrs [Masters?] Cllass Schardyc TEmcK Jansen jochum schoem acker Gerrit Molenaer Hendrick Jansen Spieringh Jan Raynertsoon [Maynertsoon?] Hacken Bruyb Mayndert Barensen Cornelis Marisen factor Stofve Stofssen [Stoffel Stoffelsen?] Carsten Jansen Chrysteyan Nyssen Yan Cornelsen Matys Moller Davit Wesel Jan Pietersoon COBES WlLBORDT Albert Pietersen trompetter Lorens Andres Barendt Krudup Wilmen Traphegen [Wihnan Trap- hagen] Cristian Wolf poules cristianesz Pieter Jansen smit The mark X of Heynrick Jansen Sluyter Dirrich Jacobsenn SlESTER MlCHGALSEN NlCKLAS JSSERSEN WOLLGANG KARSTEN VON WOLFFEN- ruttel [Wolffenbiittel] Andreas Rees Von der Liebstadt [von Lippstadt] Andreas Leensen [?] Heinrich Heinrichsz Simon Jansen X is the mark of Jansen Von der Ham CORNEELUS MaTHEYSEN Claes Tysen Claes Bom Jonas Magni [Magnus] Magnus Pittersz WlLLSZ DOBER [?] Andreas Hansen Herman S mem an X the mark of Claes Snyder X the mark of Jan Brouwer Casper Steinmets X the mark of Marten Jansen Meyer X the mark of Mathys Dtrksen Hans Drepery [Dreper] Jan Hyndrychse Steelman Volgart Jansen the mark X [of] Lodewyk Jonge Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 41 MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. July 16, 1659 Pleno Collegia Ordinary meeting as above, held on Wednesday, the 16th of July Anno 1659. 1. There appeared Ma[giste]r Ernestus Goetwasser, pastor at N. Amster- dam in N. Netherland, requesting both orally and by petition in writing, first, because by the severe persecution by the Director General and Council he had been driven from his congregation there and forced to depart, the inter- cession of this Consistory with the Hon. Directors of the West India Company here, as well as others, to obtain as yet, if possible, at least by connivance, the exercitium nostrae religionis, and pro Secundo, some subsidy from this Consistory, as compensation for the loss suffered by him. Postponed until following meeting. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, a a o LETTER from the Lutherans in New Netherland to the Amsterdam Con- sistory. July 20, 1659 Reverend, Estimable, Highly Learned Pastors and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Gentlemen, leaders and overseers of the Congregation of the Un- altered Augsburg Confession. Greetings! We trust that by the bearer, the Reverend Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, our pastor sent back by the magistrates here by the ship De Bruynvis, you will have received our last letter, dated the 5th of May, in which your honors can find a sufficient account of the prevention of our religion and the sending back of our aforesaid pastor. Our previous letters sent to your honors and your honors' reply sent to us under date of June 14, 1656, that a promise of toleration by connivance had been obtained for us by your honors in the fatherland, animate us again [to write to your honors] with the Christian and urgent request that your honors, in order duly to promote this matter, might be pleased, in the name of Christ and for the sake of our, formerly in the fatherland and now also here, dear religion, and fundamentally for us, as having now no pastor whom we can seek, to request, in whatever way or manner it may be, that we, according to our eager and Christian pious desire, may at last obtain our heartfelt wish. Not doubting but that your honors will not neglect this or remain remiss herein, but rather hoping that you will exert all zeal and diligence in this matter of our pious, Christian request, as we trust you will, we expect at the first opportunity good news, or, what would be still better for us, our aforesaid 42 The New York Public Library deported pastor, Dominus Joh. Em. Goetwasser, or, in his absence, another, according to the contents of our previous letters. Breaking off herewith, in order to be brief, we commend your honors to God's protection and ourselves to your honors' prayers and those of the congregation. Amsterdam in New Netherland, this 20th of July 1659. We remain your honors' willing servants, in the name of all the members of the U. A. Confession here, Hans Dreper The mark I. B. of Jochem Beeckman, Barendt Krudup made by himself Heinderich Willemsen Davit Wessels Mattheus Capito m[anu] p[ro]pria Note: The reply to us your honors will please send under cover either to Henderick Willemsen, the baker, or to Hans Dreper, tavernkeeper, by a trusted man, in order that it may not be intercepted with other letters. Valete ut supra. [Addressed:] To the Reverend, Attentive, Highly Learned Pastors and the Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Gentlemen, Elders and Overseers 24 of the Christian Congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confes- sion at Amsterdam [Endorsed:] N: Netherland 1659. Received in Consistory the 24 th 7 ber . Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o LETTER from Rev. Johannes E. Gutwasser to the Amsterdam Consistory. [July] 1659 Reverend, most Estimable and Highly Learned Pastors, and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Elders, very dear Brethren, worthy Patrons and kind Friends: I doubt not but your honors will remember how in the year 1657, the 10th of April, in response to the request of the brethren of the U. A. Confession in New Netherland, the undersigned was sent thither to them as pastor. Also, how at the time it was promised and then already resolved and decided in your honors' consistorial meeting that after my departure, if the exercise of our Confession could be obtained by connivance, those who had promised the same to the committee of your honors, as appears from your honors' letter of that date and year to the members in New Netherland, would see 24 Ouderlingen ende Opperhoofden. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 43 to it, I say, that the General there would have nothing against it. To which, as the sole foundation, I also referred upon my arrival, in appearing before the High as well as the subaltern Council, but the General, waiting and seeing that nothing happened, wrote to the High and Mighty Lords the States General, the Hon. Directors and to your Consistory to prevent us from carrying out our intention and, owing to failure of the promises to arrive, caused proceedings to be taken by the magistrates there to the sorrow of myself and the congregation. Not only were sharp ordinances posted on the city gates, providing for the forfeiture of large sums by the delinquents and was in the time of three times 24 hours notice to depart served on me orally as well as four several times in writing, but in order to execute the same and forcibly to put me on board, sheriffs and court messengers went to search for me at my lodgings, but such execution and rigor [of justice] was prevented by my fleeing from Manhattan Island. Thereafter, in accord- ance with your honors' advice and counsel given to us in your letter dated December 26, 1657, all possible means were exerted by petitions, supplica- tions and uniting, to start religious worship, services being held under the blue sky of heaven, but even this was prevented by many arrests, and my confinement and custody by court messengers and soldiers and, finally by my being sent away and deported, as may be seen from the documents thereof in my possession. But now that I am here in this place, I cannot refrain from asking your honors humbly and in a faithful brotherly spirit to be pleased to give me some information as to the nature of the case, how it happened and what there is to it, what the trouble is and whose fault it must have been, in order that this highly important work may be taken up again where it was left off and the desired end may be reached and procured. This will tend to the glory of God and make for the perseverance and preservation of our brethren in the true Christian Lutheran faith and Augsburg Confession. As for myself, I am willing, here as well as there, according to my ability to investigate the extremity [of the case] and, according to your honors' desire, to do my best by demonstrating the many prejudices which the said provinces have in forbidding our Conffession, and by presenting our treatment and experi- ence before the Hon. Directors of the Chartered West India Company and also before their High Mightinesses the States General. I hope that herein your honors will not refuse me your counsel and support by word and deed. And whereas for nine quarter-years, owing to lack of funds, I have not received the wages and salary that were promised me by the letter dated October 4, 1653, and during that time have had to serve without pay and 44 The New York Public Library to suffer great want and poverty, except that through the generosity of some members, out of Christian charity, some support was given me, and whereas, furthermore, I was heavily fined by General Petrus Stuyvesant and no less have suffered great loss at sea in losing both bodily necessities and the better part of my books, I trust and doubt not but the Very Laudable Consistory will and shall ponder this loss and damage to some extent and as they shall see fit and think best take the same into consideration, remembering that Almighty God will generously and richly bestow his blessing in return. This I wished by way of request and prayer briefly to bring to your honors' atten- tion, and I remain, , Your honors willing servant, M [agister] Johannes Ernestus Gutwasser Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o * o LETTER from Rev. Johannes E. Gutwasser to the Consistory at Amsterdam. July 30, 1659 Very Reverend, Highly Estimable and Learned Pastors and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Elders, very worthy and kind Friends: In my written account of the proceedings of the magistrates in New Nether- land, exhibited to your honors a fortnight ago, I made loco clausulae also mention, but not with the intention or feeling that I considered your honors in any way under obligation to me, but solely for the purpose of exciting your honors' compassion, of the fact that by my voyage to New Netherland I have been set back not a little, because I have not received the salary promised by the members of the U. A. Confession of the aforesaid place, according to their letter dated October 4, 1653, amounting to 800 florins a year, and therefore, for more than two years, have had to live miserably without pay, and also because, through the shipwreck of the ship De Was- bleecker, at the English island of Barbados, I lost both bodily necessities and the most and better part of my books, which damage I estimate at more than 250 fl[orins] Holland money, which have been advanced to me. And whereas I am also indebted for the passage to Skipper Cornelis Maertsen, factor, and to others who advanced me money for some necessities, and I cannot go on thus, I have thought it necessary and proper (not doubting that it will be taken by your honors into some consideration ) , to present and make known the same to your honors. And whereas since that time I have received no answer, I hereby kindly request your honors to be pleased, this The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 45 my proposition having been considered, shortly to let me know your reso- lution, and this for my further information. I remain, Dab: July 30, 1659, at Amst. Y our honors willing servant, M : Johannes Ernestus Gutwasser Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] « » * MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. August 14, 1659 Extraordinary meeting of the honorable Deputies, held on Thursday, the 14th of August, 1659. 2. Magister Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, former pastor in New Nether- land, as a subsidy and remuneration for the loss suffered by him is granted one hundred guilders once. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 2, p. 296. • 4 MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. September 24, 1659 Ordinary meeting as above, held on Wednesday, the 24th of September Anno 1659. 1. There was read the letter received from the members of our community in New Netherland, etc. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 2, p. 302. o o o LETTER from the Rev. Johannes E. Gutwasser to the Amsterdam Consistory. January 10, 1660, Old Style Reverend, Very Estimable and Highly Learned Pastor, very dear brethren in Christ, and Honorable, Wise and Very Discreet Elders of the Christian com- munity adhering to the U. A. Confession at Amsterdam. Greetings! It is well known to your honors how, after the New Netherland exile, I have been forced to return to my fatherland and to seek my fortune there. To find the same, I intend, in the name of God, to have my name entered at Dresden, with a German Consistory, in the register of those awaiting promotion in the Electorate of Sachsen, as is customary, but as it is to be presumed that after the account of my curriculi vitae they will ask principally for a testimonial regarding the voyage to New Netherland, I have, in order to avoid shame or making myself suspect, thought it necessary and well, with due respect, very kindly to request your honors to be pleased, without charge, to exhibit and deliver to me a written testimonial of my comport- 46 The New York Public Library ment as to doctrine, life, office and morals, being in conformance with the testimony of the Lutheran congregation in New Netherland, which I have with me and have shown, to the satisfaction of those who might perhaps demand to see it. I doubt not but this my honest request will be granted by your honors, as it tends to the spreading of the glory of God, the promotion of my studies and welfare and the confirmation of my good reputation. I am willing and ready to repay your honors for this with all possible services according to my feeble power and shall also, early and late, in solemn prayer beseech God that it may please Him to pour out on you all his rich blessing and grace and that you may be and remain forever blessed in body and soul, for Christ's sake. No more for the present, except that I commend your honors to the guidance of the Most High and remain, Your honors' faithful servant, M : Joh. Ernestus Gutwasser Dab: Schneebergh, the 10th of January, St. Vt., of the year 1660. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. February 4, 1660 Ordinary meeting as before, held on Wednesday, the 4th of February Anno 1660. 5. There was read the letter received from Dn. Magister Joh. Ernestus Goet- wasser, former pastor in New Netherland, written the 10th of January from Schneeberg, requesting a written testimonial from this Consistory concerning his doctrine, life and conduct, eo usque pastors. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Ev. Luth. Consistory. Protocol No. 2, p. 347. * s)c $ LETTERS TESTIMONIAL from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Rev. Johannes E. Gutwasser. [February 4, 1660.] We, the pastors, deputed elders and leaders (voorstanders) of the Christian congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam, make known to every one and hereby certify for the honest truth that the Reverend and learned Magister Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, formerly pastor and spiritual leader of the church of the aforesaid Confession in New The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 47 Netherland, at the earnest and written request and insistence of the inhabi- tants and members of the aforesaid Confession there, and pursuant to the commission and power of attorney thereto sent by them to us, was in the year 1657, in the name and on behalf of the said members there, requested and properly called by us, in accordance with the rules of the Christian church, and, after previous examination and trial sermon preached here in faciae Nostrae Ecclesiae, ordained to the highly respected office of pastor. He thereupon sailed for the aforesaid country and accepted the pastorate there, which he occupied for the space of about [blank], during which time the aforesaid Mr. Goetwasser, in matters of doctrine as well as in daily life, has conducted and comported himself there not otherwise than as behooves a true and faithful pastor and teacher Christi, all according to the testimony and reports thereof sent and presented to us from time to time, until finally, the aforesaid Mr. Goetwasser, by the severe persecutions of the Hon. Director Stuyvesant and Council of New Netherland, was forced to depart again from there. For which reason we neither could nor had a right to refuse to grant these Letters Testimonial to the aforesaid Magister Goetwasser. Therefore, to one and all, both high and low, whether ecclesiastical or tem- poral bodies, or state officers, after our friendly and humble greetings, as is proper, according to official custom, our kind request and prayer is, not only to give these full and undoubted credence, but also to show the aforesaid Mag- ister Goetwasser all possible courtesy, good will and assistance, which accord- ing to the best of our ability we shall try to compensate and to return. Thus done, . . . [no date]. LETTER from Hendrick Bosch to the Consistory at Amsterdam. August 19, 1663 Grace and the peace of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be unto you. Reverend, Learned, Honorable, Wise, Prudent Gentlemen: There is no one among us who does not know what persecution and dis- tress the Church of Christ, from the beginning until now, has had to endure and suffer, and particularly from those who call themselves also members of Christ's [Church]. Having come here a little over two years ago as one of the least of the members of the body of our Lord Jesus Christ, I found here a large congregation adhering to our Christian Unaltered Augsburg Confession, and although hope among us has not lessened, and we still do hope, that some day we may be rightly helped, the fact is, alas, that many 48 The New York Public Library of the congregation begin to stray like sheep and that they dare not come together here to offer any sign of devotion, much less trust themselves jointly to sign a petition to your honors, for fear of being betrayed. And whereas it is very well known to me what great Christian care was exercised by your honors ( during the twenty years that I lived at Leyden ) to make everything right wherever in our churches things were not going well and that no trouble or expenses were spared to build up and propagate Christ's Church, I am thereby, having considered the same, emboldened to inform you, Reverend, Honorable, Wise and Prudent Gentlemen, of this high need and to pray and beseech you, for Christ's sake, to lend us the helping hand, in order that we may be provided with a pious, godly and learned man. The highest Requiter will look upon and crown such care and trouble with His love and eternal blessing and help promote such godly work in such a distant country that you yourselves will find joy therein. Your co- operation will, by us and our successors, be held in everlasting remembrance and redound to your honor and glory in the sight of God. Reverend, Learned, Honorable, Wise, Prudent Gentlemen, after wishing you all that is good for body and soul, I commend you to the protection of the Most High. Amsterdam in N : Netherland 1663, August 19. Your honors' willing and humble servant, Hendrjck Bosch [Addressed:] Reverend, Learned, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentle- men, Pastors, Elders and leaders of the Christian community of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam in Holland. By a worthy friend whom it may please God to conduct. [Endorsed: ] New Netherland 1663. Received in Consistory the 10th Octobris. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] PETITION of the Lutherans of New York to Governor Richard Nicolls. December 15, 1664 Petition to the Right Honorable Governor of His Majesty and his Royal Highness of England, [presented] on the 15th Dec. A°. 1664. Whereas we, by God's providence, with several families [are] now under His Majesty's obedience and we, the aforesaid inhabitants, [at his honor's] request, as is fair, according to the oath, have bound ourselves to His The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 49 Majesty and pledged our obedience to his aforesaid honor, or any succeed- ing governor or officer who may be appointed by authority of His Majesty of England, and whereas we, the aforesaid [petitioners], and many others, were prevented by the former authorities from publicly exercising our religion and from administering [the sacraments], according to the com- mand of God's Holy Word and our conscience, wherein we ought to show our obedience; Therefore, it is our very humble petition that it may please the honorable General to grant us the favor of permitting us to call a Lutheran pastor, whom we shall voluntarily support, to the end that with his honor's protection we may be granted [freedom of] public worship, etc. This day, in New York on Mantans Island, A°. 1664. [Signed:] Hans Dreper Jochem Beeckman Andreas Reesz Davit Wessels Marten Hoefmaen Lucas Aendreesen and many others. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 9 O # ORDER by Governor Nicolls on the petition of the Lutherans. December 6 /16 1664 ' ' Copy of Apostil of the Hon. Governor Ritzaert Nicolaes. [Whereas] several persons under my government, who are adherents of the Lutheran faith, [and who] have taken the oath of fidelity to his Majesty and his Royal Highness, and to such governor or other officer as is or shall be appointed there, have by petition requested that they might have liberty to send for one or more pastors of the aforesaid religion and that they might freely and publicly exercise their religion according to their conscience, I have given my consent thereto, on condition that they shall molest no one of other [faith] and that they shall be obedient to the present authorities. Whereunto I have set my hand and seal at Fort James in New York, on the island of Manatans, the 6th day of December A°. 1664. 25 [Was signed : ] Ritzaert Nicolaes. [Endorsed:] New Netherland. Received in Consistory the 3d of June 1665. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 25 Old style date, corresponding to December 16, 1664, new style. Both the petition and the order thereon are translated from crude Dutch translations which were enclosed in the letter of Dec. 8/18, 1664. 50 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Lutherans at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. December 8/18, 1664 Reverend, Wise, Learned, Very Prudent and Discreet Gentlemen and dear Brethren in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Grace he unto you and the peace of God the Father and of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. There is no one among you who will not remember that this congregation has heretofore written and requested your advice and assistance, in order that by God's mercy they might some day obtain a pious pastor here; also, that in response to this written and very laudable request, a pious pastor was sent over to us by your honors, but that by the former authorities here he was prevented from serving and that to the sorrow of this congregation he has returned from here to Holland. Furthermore, that afterwards, by S r . Johannis van Mulen, your honors were reminded thereof by one of the members here, 26 to which we had expected an answer. Now, our faithful God, whose works are wonderful to behold, has, contrary to all human expectation, through this present governor placed us under his Royal Majesty of Eng- land's government, so that we have been spurred on by prominent persons of the English nation, yes, have even been furnished pens and hands, to carry on this Christian work. With the help of an English captain, we have, in the name of God, presented a petition in the English language to the Hon. Governor and received an apostil thereon, granting us the privilege to enjoy publicly free exercitium Religionis. We are sending over a copy of the petition and of the apostil, 27 translated from the English into Dutch. The name of the Lord be praised forever. Amen. Reverend Gentlemen and Very Worthy Friends: We very humbly address ourselves to your honors, requesting that it may please you to send us a pious, qualified person to fill the pastorate; if it were possible, one who has command of the Nether-Dutch tongue, for the sake of the young people. On account of this change many people have departed and heretofore also many left because they doubted whether we should obtain freedom [of worship]. There are still together about one hundred persons, and perhaps more, who are not yet known. We have made an estimate, hoping to be able to give a decent salary to a pastor who is willing to take us for what we are, a small congregation, which must first be established and who therein will be favorable and helpful to us. We shall most gratefully acknowl- edge this and pray God that He may preserve you and us by his holy, pure 26 See letter from Hendrick Bosch, dated August 19, 1663. 27 Dated December 15, 1664, and December 6/16, 1664, q.v. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 51 word until our blessed end. We commend your honors to the protection of the Most High. Given on the island of Manatans, in New York, the 8th of December Anno 1664, Old Style. 28 We, the undersigned, your Reverend, Wise, Learned, Very Prudent and Discreet Gentlemen's and dear brethren in Christ Jesus, our Lord's, unworthy servants, _ Hans Dreper Mychgil Tadeus Hendrick Bosch Signed in the name and by older of the congregation. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam . . . Meeting as above, held on June 18 Anno 1665. 2. Discussion regarding Dom. Bernardus, to confer with him about the work of New Netherland. Ordered to summon him for that purpose to appear before the Consistory. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol, No. 2, p. 720-21. Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, The 15th of July Anno 1665. 1. A long conference and discussion was held about the call of Dom. Ber- nardus Rents, of Dinslaken, to New Netherland and the same for the present postponed until further deliberation. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol, No. 2, p. 723-24. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 6th of August 1665 Third, it was announced that the candidate Leenderich, from Utrecht, was said to be willing to accept the call in New Netherland. Whereupon Dom. Cordes agreed to speak with the father of Leenderich and that he would send the son hither to appear at the next meeting of the Consistory, in order to treat with him more fully about the matter. Anwf. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 2, p. 728. 28 Corresponding to December 18, 1664, New Style. 52 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam, continued Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 27th of August . . . Anno 1665 4. There was read the letter received from New Netherland. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 2, p. 733. o o o Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 16th of Sep- . . . temberl665 2. Upon written invitation there appeared the honorable Lendrich, candi- date of Sacred Theology, to whom, in accordance with the letters and docu- ments received for that purpose from New Netherland, in the name and on behalf of the members of our community there, was extended the call to serve as regular pastor of the said community at New Amsterdam, on the conditions and terms submitted thereto by them in writing. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 2, p. 735. Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 15th of October Anno 1665 1. There appeared Dom. Arnoldus Lendrich, of Utrecht, who, upon the request presented to him by this Consistory in the name of the members of our Confession at New Amsterdam in New Netherland, accepted the service of the community there, to sail thither in the coming spring. Ordered, to notify the aforesaid community thereof by letter. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, p. 1. Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 3d of December . . . Anno 1665 2. Ordered, that the community and members of our Confession at New Amsterdam in New Netherland, at present called New York, shall be notified and informed in the name of this Consistory that according to their letter and request this Consistory has requested Dom. Arnoldus Lendrich, of Utrecht, to be their ordinary pastor and that the said call has been favorably The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 53 received and accepted by him and that he is resolved and intends with God's help to depart and sail from here in the coming spring. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, p. 3-3v. • « » Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 10th of December . . . Anno 1665 2. There was taken up again the letter which according to the resolution passed at the last meeting was drafted and written to the community of our Confession at New Amsterdam in New Netherland and it was ordered to send the same as written. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, p. 3v. « « e LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutherans at New York. December 10, 1665 Reverend, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Friends and Brethren in Christ: Your honors' letter of December 8th, old style, of the year 1664, was duly received by us and opened and read in our Consistory on the 3d of June last. You therein inform us that the present governor and government under his Royal Majesty of England there at New York have by special act not only granted to your honors the free exercise of our religion, but also to that end consented to your writing for and calling a pastor. You further request and desire us to be pleased to look out for your honors here in this country for a pious, well qualified and suitable person to serve and take care of your congregation as pastor and spiritual leader, which pastor your congregation, according to the estimate by them hoped to be able to offer and give a decent salary. Whereupon then, for the promotion of your honors' Christian and well begun work, we have exerted ourselves to find and obtain for your honors a pious and capable spiritual leader and pastor and, having for that purpose written to Utrecht and requested the Reverend, Learned Mr. Arnoldus Lendrich to appear before us, we have offered and proposed to him the service of your honors' church. After having kept the matter for some time under consideration and advisement, he has at last, in the name of the Lord, accepted the said call and service of your honors' church, being re- solved to enter upon and to discharge the said accepted office. Of which, for your honors' guidance, we have thought it proper to advise you in advance, 54 The New York Public Library wishing that it may please the Almighty to grant thereto his grace and bless- ing, in order that the same may tend and redound to the glory of His name and to the salvation of many people. After our greetings, we hereby commend your honors jointly and severally to the protection of the Almighty. In Amsterdam, this 10th of December A°. 1665. Your honors' faithful friends and fellow brethren in Christ, the pastors and deputed elders and voorstanders of the Christian community adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession there. [Addressed:] Reverend, Pious, Wise and Discreet Gentlemen, the joint Voor- standers of the Christian Lutheran church at New York in N: Netherland. Under cover. [Endorsed:] Hendrick Bosch, sword maker, in N: York. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America?] POO MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam [Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 1st of April, . . . 1666?] 3. There appeared Dom. Arnoldus Lendrich, who, in conformity with the letter written to him about the matter, was repeatedly told and informed by this Consistory that in case he were willing at the first opportunity, by the ship which at present was lying ready to sail, to depart for New Nether- land and there to occupy the office and assume the duties accepted by him, this Consistory, to promote the said work, would give and present him for the voyage the sum of sixty guilders and in addition forty guilders to pur- chase some books, amounting together to one hundred guilders. Whereupon the said Aernout Lendrich stated that his father, to collect some of his debts, had to make a necessary trip to Germany and that it was impossible for him to make the voyage until his aforesaid father had re- turned home. He agreed and promised that then, without further delay, he would depart at the first opportunity, which finally, at his request, was agreed to, so that a delay until then was granted to him. 4. There appeared Dom. Arnoldus, who, at the request of the Consistory made to him in the name of the members of our community in New Nether- land, agreed that as soon as Albert Lendrick, his father, who had to make a necessary trip to Germany, had returned home, he would sail thither to serve the congregation there as pastor in accordance with their letter and The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 55 call and to accept and occupy his said office, for the furtherance [of the good work]. O o Absent: Messrs Ligarius [and] Bloem Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Thursday, the 8th of April 1666 S. rs Abraham Pelt Hansz [and] Hend. Duyster [?] Ordered that a letter be written to the members of our community at New York in New Netherland regarding the situation and present state of the call of Dom. Lendrich. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. [Protocol No. 3, fol. 12-12v.] • » • MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 12th of May Anno 1666 1. It was resolved and agreed that a certificate and testimonial shall be given by this Consistory to Dom. Lendrich and sent to his father, Albert Lendrich, at Dresden, that the aforesaid Lendrich has been requested and called by this Consistory, in the name and on behalf of the members of our congregation at New Amsterdam, to be pastor of the congregation of our Confession there. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 16. • » * Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 13th of October Anno 1666 There was read the letter received from the members of this community at New York, with the enclosed letter to Dom. Arnoldo Lendrich. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 23. o o u Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 8th of De- • • • cember Anno 1666 2. Ordered that a letter be written to M[agiste]r Arnold Lendrich, at Utrecht, asking him to state and answer categorically whether he accepts the call to New Netherland and is willing or not to go and sail thither at the first opportunity to discharge the duties of the office. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol. No. 3, fol. 27. 56 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Lutherans at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. August 4/14, 1666 Reverend, Learned, Wise, Very Discreet Gentlemen, very dear friends and fellow-brethren in Christ Jesus. Grace be unto you and peace, wisdom and the blessing of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Your honors' agreeable letter, dated the 9th of April 1666, new style, was duly received by us on the 16th of July, new style. From it we learned of another letter sent to us before this, but which was not received. Further, we were deeply grateful to learn of your honors' great love and provident care in helping to propagate Christ's Church in these distant parts and that to this end, at our request, your honors had exerted yourselves and found the Reverend M[ agister] Arnoldus Lenderick (who has also written to us) to be our spiritual leader at this place. As he desired us, as is fair, to fix the amount which the pastor would receive annually as his salary, this serves for answer, that here in this country, through God's hand, much damage has been suffered, for in February the freshet was so high and strong as within the memory of man it has never been at Fort Orange, so that whole streets and houses were washed away and the damage is estimated at more than two tuns of gold [200,000 guilders]. Among the sufferers many of our com- munity, both at Fort Orange and along the river, who were rich farmers, are totally ruined and have become completely destitute, their houses with grain and household effects having been carried away and their cattle having drowned or been killed by the ice. It was such a dreadful upheaval that here at the Manhatans parts of houses and lofts with grain and quantities of all sorts of household goods came floating down. And although at the Manhatans, for a long time many have been steadily staying with us, it appears that since we have obtained freedom [of worship], no efforts are being spared on the other side to draw prominent persons away from us, and that in part they herein succeed. Furthermore, some of our people have departed, whether to the Eternal Fatherland, or to other worldly places, so that our flock has somewhat decreased, but, in order not to set back this good Christian work, we have with those of Fort Orange anew made an estimate and fixed the amount at 50 beavers, that is to say, fifty beavers a year, until it pleases God, through some change, to grant an in- crease of population, and it may then be possible to give more. Meanwhile we take this opportunity very humbly to request your honors not to with- draw the helping hand from us, but to be pleased to support us, in order that the good work that has been begun may not run down, but be propa- gated to the glory of God's holy name and the salvation of many erring souls, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 57 for which before God's countenance, with you and you with us, we shall have to praise His holy name and for this and other mercies jointly thank Him in all eternity. Amen, Lord Jesus, Amen, Amen. Commending your honors hereby, after our friendly greetings and hearty thanks, jointly and severally to the gracious protection of the Most High, [we remain], Your honors' faithful friends and fellow-br ether en in Christ, the leaders of the Christian community adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession tnere - Davit Wesels Mychgil Tadens jochum beeckman Manhatans Island, N: York, the 4/14th August 1666 [Addressed: ] Reverend, Learned, Honorable, Wise, Prudent Gentlemen, Pas- tors, Elders and Leaders of the Evangelical Lutheran Community which exists at Amsterdam in Holland. [Endorsed:] New York in New Netherland 1666 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] « o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. December 14, 1666 Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 14th of De- cember Anno 1666 1. There was read the letter received from Ma[giste]r Arnoldus Lendrich, of Utrecht, whereby, in answer to the letter written to him on the ninth of this month, he declares and informs this Consistory that he has accepted the service of New Netherland and still stands by this decision and intends in the coming spring to sail thither to occupy the said pastorate. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 27v. », * « LETTER from the Lutherans at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. July 13, 1667 God be with you all. Amen. Reverend and Learned, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen, dear friends and fellow-brethren in Christ Jesus. Grace be unto you and peace, wisdom and the blessing of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. Your honors' agreeable letter, dated the 6th of April Anno 1666, duly reached us on the 6th of July Anno 1666. From it we learned with hearty gratitude of your honors' great care to help promote Christ's Church at this place and in having been pleased to provide us according to our desire with 58 The New York Public Library a faithful, pious spiritual leader, to wit, with the Rev. Mag. Arnoldus Lend- erick. It has also pleased your honors to enquire of us how much salary his reverence would receive annually. We replied to this on the 4/14th of August Anno 1666 and sent the letters to your honors and to Mag. Arnoldus Lend- erick, under cover to S r . Joh. vander Meulen, at the house of S r . Paul. Roosar, residing in "the city of Lunenburg," on the Keysers Gracht, which letters, we doubt not must have been duly delivered. We have fixed the amount for the pastor at 50, say fifty, beavers a year, and if it please God to bless the land with prosperity and increase of population, we shall not fail to increase the pastor's salary. Meanwhile, we have requested, and still request, that the good work thus begun may be supported to the glory of God and the sal- vation of many erring souls and that your honors may lend us the helping hand, in order that the meager salary which under the present circumstances is offered by us may not prevent the coming over of our reverend pastor, Mag. Arnoldus Lenderick, but on the contrary may be promoted by your honors to glorify God's holy name and for the salvation of many erring people, which we shall acknowledge with hearty thanks and will be to your honors' everlasting honor and glory in the sight of God. Commending your honors herewith, jointly and each one of you separately, to the gracious protection of the Most High, we remain with hearty thanks and greetings from all of us, Your honors' faithful friends and fellow-brethren in Christ Jesus, the leaders of the Christian community adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession there. Manhattans Island Davit Wesels P. T. New York, A°. 1667, I. B. this is the mark of Jochum Beeckman 13 July, Stilo Novo Mychgil Tadens Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] * * * LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutherans at New York. July 15, 1667 Reverend, Attentive, Learned, Wise, Prudent Friends and Fellow-Brethren in Christ: Whereas the Reverend and learned Do. Andreas Lendrich, 29 of Utrecht, has presented a complaint to us that some envious people, in order to make his person objectionable to your congregation and to be a hindrance to him, had spread and thrown out [rumors], not only that he, Do. Lendrich, and his father were trouble makers, but also that the said Do. Lendrich had 29 Intended for Do. Arnoldus Lendrich. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 59 received from our congregation a sum of six hundred guilders and had gambled away or improperly dissipated and squandered the same, and whereas by the said untrue reports he is not only seriously injured in his good name and reputation, but also considerably hindered in his advancement, he has requested us to inform your honors of the facts, for so far as we are better acquainted therewith or know them to be otherwise. Therefore, for the maintenance of the truth and the advancement of the aforesaid Do. Lendrich, we cannot fail to declare and to inform your honors hereby that neither the said Do. Lendrich nor his father have ever been known to us to be trouble makers, and that it is a notorious untruth that he, Do. Lendrich, has ever received from our congregation a sum of six hundred guilders and, therefore, cannot have misspent or squandered the same either, which we, in order to disabuse your minds regarding it, hereby report to your honors. After extending our greetings, we hereby commend your honors to the gracious protection of God. In Amsterdam, this 15th of July A°. 1667. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 28th of Sep- tember Anno 1667 3. There was read the letter from the members of our Confession at New York, wherein they plead and request that the work may be furthered, to the end that Mag. Arnoldus Lendrigh, their duly called pastor, may come over; with announcement of the salary which they will raise and give him, about which, in an enclosed letter, they write to the above named Do. Lend- righ himself. Resolved, that the enclosed letter shall be sent or delivered to the said Do. Lendrigh by Mr. Ligarius, in order that he may declare himself on the subject. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 49. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 18th of January Anno 1668 2. It is likewise ordered to inform the members of [the congregation of] New Netherland by letter of the situation regarding the call of their pastor. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 60. I 60 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutherans at New York. January 31, 1668 Reverend, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Friends and Fellow-Brethren in Christ: By our preceding letter we advised your honors that pursuant to your honors' writing and the request made of us, we had in your honors' name invited and called the Reverend and learned Do. Arnoldus Lendrich, of Utrecht, to be your honors' pastor and spiritual leader, and that the said call had been favorably received and accepted by his reverence. We had therefore also assumed, since it has pleased our merciful and compassionate God to crown and bless us once more with beloved peace and by His divine and gracious providence to put an end to the severe and bloody war between the English and our nation, that the said Do. Lendrich would now, together with this letter, have come over to your honors to occupy the said office. How- ever, as this was prevented, first by the said war, and the aforesaid Mr. Lend- rich meanwhile received another call, and the aforesaid call therefore remains in abeyance, we are thinking of looking around for another capable person for your honors, whom we hope shortly to have on hand and to send to your honors. We have, therefore, not wished to neglect hereby to advise and inform your honors thereof. With our friendly and brotherly greetings, we hereby commend you jointly and severally to the gracious protection of the Most High. In Amsterdam, this last of January A°. 1668. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] O O ft LETTER from the Lutherans at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. July 1, 1668 Grace be unto you and the peace of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ Reverend, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Friends and dear Fellow-Brethren in Christ: Your honors' very agreeable letter, dated the last of January 1668, was duly received by us on the 8th of May 1668. We learned with gratitude of your honors' love and great care for this congregation, to provide us, in the place of the Rev. Magister Lenderick, with another pastor, whom you advise us you will shortly have available to send to us. Therefore, our friendly request once more is not to delay this long, but according to your promise The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 61 to send him to us at the first opportunity, in order that many sorrowful hearts, which otherwise become bitter, may be gladdened. A copy of your honors' letter was sent to the congregation at Fort Orange. They heartily rejoice and thank God for it and promise that they will not fail to do their best if it please God to have the pastor come. The money lies ready for his passage and fifty beavers a year for his salary, and if it please God to bless us with an increase of population and prosperity, we shall also raise his salary. In conclusion, we once more request your honors not to forget us, but at the first opportunity to send over the pastor, in order that God's word may be spread thereby and many sad, bewildered people may be brought to follow the true road to Christ our Savior and be saved and find eternal joy. After sending you our friendly and brotherly greetings and hearty thanks, we hereby commend your honors, jointly and severally, to the protection of the Most High. N. York, the 1st of July 1668. Your honors' ever faithf ul friends and fellow-brethren in Christ, the leaders of the Christian congregation adhering to the true Christian, Unaltered Augsburg Confession at N. York on Manhatans Island. I. B. This is the mark of Jochim Beeckman Davit Wesels Mychgil Tadens [Addressed:] Reverend, Learned, Wise, Very Prudent, Discreet Gentlemen, Pastors, Elders and Voorstanders of the Christian Congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam in Holland. By a friend whom God conduct. [Endorsed: ] N. York 1668. Received in Consistory the 29th of August Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] O St 6 MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam . . . Meeting, etc., held on Wednesday, the 29th of August Anno 1668 3. There was read the letter received from the members of our Confession at New York in New Netherland, requesting again that a pastor be sent to them. Whereupon it was resolved to extend the said call by letter to Wolter Conradi, of Swol 30 and, if he is inclined thereto, at the same time to summon him [to appear]. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 81. 30 Swol, an old form of Zwol, or Zwolle, the capital of the province of Overyssel, Netherlands. 62 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Rev. Woltherus Conradi to the Amsterdam Consistory. August 28/Sept. 7, 1668 Honorable, Estimable, Very Highly Esteemed Sir and Special Patron: After friendly salutation, this serves to let you know that I have duly received and read the letters of recommendation to the congregation in New Netherland and the subsequent conditions sent to my father, but my parents seem to be troubled about the following points: First, about the not only long, but also perilous and uncertain voyage, not knowing whether one can indeed sail across without danger. Second, that one does not know the con- ditions of the country, whether it is expensive to live there or not, and, if so, that one could hardly get along with such a small amount of money, especially, in settling down at first in an unknown place, so that it seems to me that if one entered into such a contract, the capital should be raised to 300 or 400 guilders. Third, that one does not know for certain either whether one is to have free dwelling there or not. Fourth, whether, after I had been there two or three years and should be inclined to return hither, I should be promoted to the first vacant place. If the last three conditions are settled, I shall take a short time to think things over. I therefore greatly thank the highly esteemed gentlemen and especially the Very Reverend Consistory for the fatherly care which they have for me in this matter. In return I have nothing else to offer but my dutiful prayer to God that it may please the Lord to keep them all long in health and the continued prosperity of our churches and the congregation there, and I further commend myself to their fatherly patronage. Ending herewith, I wish to commend them all to God's gracious protection. Zwolle, the 28th of August 1668, stil. vet. 31 I remain your honors faithful servant in prayer Woltherus Conradi Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Protocol Zwolle o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 12th of • • • September Anno 1668. 4. Ds. Christianus Jersenius, at present pastor at Edam, was offered the call and pastorate of New York in New Netherland and has taken the same under advisement. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 82. 3! August 28, 1668, old style, corresponding to Sept. 7, 1668, new style. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 63 ABSTRACTS of correspondence of the Amsterdam Consistory. September 26, 1668 Letter from Christianus Jersing, pastor at Edam, to the Consistory here, stating that he declines the offer to go as pastor to New York in New Nether- land. He gives as the reason that "I cannot with a good conscience leave this congregation committed to my care by God, since I have been lawfully called here and find that by the grace of God my congregation are with me diligently seeking to preserve spiritual union through the bonds of peace. I hope that the Lord will provide the means that I may earn my daily bread here; more I do not covet of these temporal things." September 27, 1668 Letter from the Consistory of Edam to the Consistory here, stating that they had learned that their pastor, Christianus Jersing, had been asked whether he was inclined to go to the congregation in New Netherland. Although Jersing would earn more in America, he has to their great joy decided to remain in Edam. They request the Consistory to furnish greater support for their pastor. _ , ._, . , „ L L *■ Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio Edam. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 3d of October . . . Anno 1668. 2. There was read the letter received from Do. Christianus Jersenius, pastor of the congregation at Edam, whereby he declares that for reasons men- tioned in the said letter he cannot accept the pastorate of New York offered to him. Amst. Lutn. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory. Protocol No. 3, fol. 83. Absent: Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 21st of Novem- Messrs. Ligarius ber Anno 1668 Cordes 1. There appeared Jacobus Fabritius from Grosglogauw in Silegien (Gross- Glogau, in Silesia), a refugee pastor, who, having shown his credentials, asked for an allowance (viaticum). In view of the fact that he is already a mature 32 person and has no wife or children, it was debated and considered 32 Bedaert; literally, sedate, or quiet, usually referring to a middle-aged person, who has settled down in life. 64 The New York Public Library whether he should be offered the pastorate of New York. Whereupon, it being resolved to sound him out on this, this was done and the said Fabritius declared himself well inclined thereto, whereupon further consideration of the matter was postponed until a subsequent meeting. ibid. Protocol No. 3, foL 87. o o o Absent: Ordinary Consistorial meeting held on Wednesday, the 28th of Mr. Hopper November Anno 1668. 1. Whereas Ds. Jacobus Fabritius, last Sunday evening, preached a sermon as guest speaker (gastpredight) here and displayed his gifts, and was judged to be a doughty person and capable preacher for the congregation of New York and Fort Albany, he was summoned for that purpose and, having appeared, offered and tendered the call and pastorate of the aforesaid places, in accordance with the letter received from the members of the said con- gregation there and upon the conditions mentioned therein, which said call he accepted in the name of the Lord. And whereas a certain ship is at present lying ready to sail at the Texel in order to navigate to New Netherland, it is ordered that at the first opportunity a letter [of recommendation] for the said Do. Fabritius shall be despatched to the aforesaid congregation, together with a copy of the Church Order [of Service] (kerkenagenda). ibid. Protocol No. 3, fol. 87v. O O B LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutherans at New York. November 28, 1668 Reverend, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Friends and Fellow-Brethren in Christ: Pursuant to your honors' letter of the first of July of this year 1668, and the reiterated request to us made therein, to the end that as soon as possible we should please to look around for your honors for a capable and pious teacher and pastor who was willing [to go thither] and to send him to you, we have not failed to make all possible efforts to find a pious and capable person, but have not been able to succeed therein as promptly as we had hoped and wished. And whereas, through the providence of God, the bearer hereof, the Reverend, Learned Mr. Jacobus Fabritius, of Gross-Glogau, former pastor at Poggans, in Over 33 Ongeren ( Upper Hungary ) , whence he was driven by the invasion of the Turks, has made himself known and re- 33 Over, in Dutch, means Trans, but here its use is analogous to the German "Ober." The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 65 ported here in this city to our Consistory, we have, after perusal of several testimonials shown to us concerning his pious conduct and learning, and after he had preached here and let us hear his talents, judged and found him to be a man of such gifts and learning as under God's blessing are needed to found and build up your honors' church. We have, therefore, in the name and on behalf of your honors' congregation at New York and at Fort Albany offered and extended to him the call to the pastorate, which he has also accepted in the name of the Lord and to his special and heartfelt satisfaction. Wherefore, then, the said Do. Jacobus Fabritius is herewith sent to your honors. We request that upon his arrival and landing there your honors will please accept him as your pastor and grant him a proper certificate (Vocatie Brief) 34 thereof, wishing that the said call may tend and redound to the glorification of God's holy name, the propagation of His dearly bought Church and the salvation of many people. And we hereby commend you jointly and each one separately, after our greetings, to the gracious protection of the Almighty. In Amsterdam, this 28th of November A°. 1668. [Superscription:] Reverend, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Friends, the joint members of the congregation adhering to the Augsburg Confession, residing at New York and Fort Albany, on Manhatans Island. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o CONFIRMATION by Governor Lovelace of an act of his predecessor grant- ing freedom of worship to the Lutherans in New York. February 20, 1668/9 Francis Lovelace, Esq., Chamberlain of His Majesty's Privy Chamber, Gover- nor General under his Royal Highness James, Duke of York and Albany, and of all his territories in America, to all those who shall see these, Greetings: Whereas Coll. Richard Nicolls, my predecessor, by an Act under his hand and seal, dated the 6th day of December Anno 1664, gave permission and freedom to those of the Lutheran church residing under this government to send to Europe for a pastor of their faith, capable of conducting religious services among them, provided that such freedom should not be abused to the disturbance of others and that they should subject themselves and be obedient to such laws and institutions as from time to time should be imposed them, together with the rights of His Majesty's subjects which have been 34 Apparently a formal Letter of Call. 66 The New York Public Library established here by authority, and whereas they say that on faith thereof they have been at great expense and trouble in selecting a duly competent and qualified person and have finally succeeded in getting their wish, there lately having arrived here M. Jacobus Fabritius to be their pastor, I have thought fit to grant and to ratify, as I hereby do ratify and confirm, the prev- ious act granted by my predecessor. Furthermore, I grant permission to the aforesaid M. Jacobus Fabritius to be pastor of the Lutheran church, giving him freedom to hold religious services among them on each Sunday and on such other days as are appointed and observed for the holding of religious services, on condition that he, the aforesaid pastor, and the Eight 35 of the aforesaid congregation take their oath to be faithful subjects of His Majesty during the time that they reside in any country belonging to His Majesty. Whereof all persons residing within this government are to take heed, in order that no one may presume in any way to molest or trouble the said pastor and congregation in the exercise of their religion as above mentioned. This freedom shall last and continue until his Royal Highness' pleasure by further decree shall be made known. Given under my hand and seal in Fort James, in New York, the 20th of February in the 21st year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord Charles the Second, by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, etc., Anno Domini 1668 [Was signed] Francis Lovelace Recorded by order of the Governor Matthias Nicolls, Secretary Lit: B CERTIFICATE showing that Magister Fabricius took the oath of fidelity to His Majesty. February 27, 1668/9 i This serves to make known to all those whom it may concern that M. Jacobus Fabricius, pastor of the Lutheran church within this government, on the 20th day of this month took his oath to be a faithful subject of His Majesty, as long as he shall reside in any of his dominions. Dated in the 35 Apparently referring to the eight Overseers and Wardens provided by the Duke's Laws. See Colonial laws of New York, v. 1, p. 24. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 67 secretary's office in Fort James, in New York, the 27th day of February in the 21st year of His Majesty's reign, in the year of our Lord 1668/9. 36 Matthias Nicolls, Secretary [Lit. A.] Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] * *> a LETTER from the Lutherans at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. April 13/23, 1669 Grace be unto you and peace through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Rev- erend, Highly and Well Learned, Honorable, Very Estimable, Prudent, Very Discreet Members of the Consistory, all very kind friends and highly hon- ored, deserving brethren in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Whereas your reverend, highly estimable body, in response to our con- stant and insistent prayer, considering the great lack among us of a godly pastor, have been thinking of means to supply us therewith and have indeed carried out the same by sending over and promoting our present beloved pastor, the Reverend Mag. Jacobus Fabricius, we not only have to acknowl- edge this favor with the utmost gratitude, but, as is proper and Christian brotherly, [to assure your honors that] it will be an everlasting memorial among our successors. Especially, also, at this first opportunity, although all things are not yet complete, as our beloved pastor has not yet been at Fort Orange 37 and we therefore do not know what our brethren at Fort Albany have planned with one another for the support of our pastor. As soon as our pastor comes down again, we shall advise your honors of everything. We hereby inform your honors that we were like so many lost sheep, without a herder, partly because, due to the prolonged hoping and waiting, we were to some extent scattered, and partly because many among us doubted whether we should be helped. Thus we lived between hope and fear until God, through your Reverences' great provident care sent us the Reverend Mag. Jacobus Fabricius, our dear and worthy pastor, who arrived here on the first of March, S. N. Anni hujus, 38 for which we are all most highly rejoicing in God. 36 Translated from a Dutch translation of the original document. 37 Fort Orange and Fort Albany, the modern Albany, are used synonymously; there was only one Lutheran congregation in this section. 38 i.e., new style of that year. 68 The New York Public Library As soon, now, as our pastor arrived, he immediately called on the Hon. Governor General and notified him of his arrival. He respectfully insisted on liberum Exercitium Religionis Aug: Confess:, which was also granted him, on condition that he should first take the oath of fidelity to His Majesty the King of England, which he also did in the Secretary's office on March 2, N. S., or Feb. 20, O. S., as is to be seen from the Copia testimonii juramenti, sub lit. A. Thereupon, at the urgent request of our pastor and dear brother, the elders, on the 2d of March, went to the Governor General and requested ratification and confirmation of our former privilege, which they also obtained on the 20th of February, O. S., as is to be seen from the Copia Privilegii, sub lit. B. Thereupon our pastor publicly began to preach, to visit the sick, to baptize, to marry and to administer Holy Communion. On Dominica Quinquagesima 39 he preached the first sermon and on Dominica Oculi 40 he celebrated the first Communion. There were 45 persons at the Lord's table and we cannot conceal the joy of our hearts at the happy success, since we see not only a growth of this small congregation, as now and then many many scattered Evangelical Lutheran members, of whom heretofore we had no knowledge, reveal themselves and come to us, but also, on Dominica Palmarum, a 50 year old Negro was baptized and named Emmanuel. There are also others whom our Rev. M agister is already busy instructing and to whom otherwise we look forward with great hopes. However, this is not without creating great bitterness among our adversa- ries; yes, it causes great enmity, unwill and slander and they seek by all sorts of means to draw the weak unto themselves. But it does us no harm, for our reverend pastor practises that Praesta te virum, and is both a modest and bold man, so that, if he were not, great detriment could be done to us. But he has already got so far that they avoid him, and this he does by means of unusual modest courage and boldness, both in his sermons and in common conversation and that without naming the Calvinists. By the most prominent persons of the English nation our pastor is held in high regard and esteem, which is a great joy and consolation to us. Yes, some of the Calvinists now come in large numbers to the preaching, and this because their three ministers have in these Easter holy days held not more than one service, whereas our Rev. Magister held six, including Good Friday. Now we lack nothing but pious, godly patrons, who will take our need to heart 39 Quinquagesima Sunday. The date was February 21, 1669, old style, or March 3, new style. 40 Oculi Sunday, the 3rd Sunday in Lent. The date was March 14, 1669, old style, or March 24, new style. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 69 and think of some means of assisting us, in order that we may build a church and procure other necessaries for that purpose. Wherefore we pray the Reverend Consistory that they may be pleased, in our name, to take up a collection among their congregation, in order that this our recently begun divine worship may be propagated at this far distant place, to the glory of God and the salvation of many people, which will be to your Reverend Consistory's honor and praise before God's coun- tenance and serve as an everlasting memorial to our successors. We have no reason to doubt [your assistance in the matter], but [put], and always have firmly put, our trust therein, which [trust] is further strengthened in the highest degree by the sending over of our reverend pastor. We hope, therefore, that you will continue to be favorably inclined and helpful to us. We hereby faithfully commend your reverences and honors and the entire Christian congregation, for great prosperity and our strengthening, to the protection of Jesus Christ and remain jointly, The 23d/13th April 1669. Your reverences' faithful friends and fellow-brethren in Christ Jesus our Lord, the deputed elders and leaders of the Christian congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession in New York, on Manhatans. P. S. What is still lacking we shall write to the Rev. Consistory by the other ship. [Addressed:] Reverend, Highly and Well Learned, and Honorable, Esti- mable, Prudent, Very Discreet Gentlemen and Friends, the joint Consistory and members of the Christian congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augs- burg Confession at Amsterdam, in Holland. [Endorsed:] N: York 1669. Received in Consistory the 19th June Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o a o LETTER from the Rev. Jacobus Fabricius to the Amsterdam Consistory. April 25/May 5, 1669 May God be merciful to us and grant us His blessing. Amen. Reverend, Very Estimable, Highly and Well Learned and Very Honorable Gentlemen, members of the Ecclesiastical Evangelical Lutheran Consistory at Amster- dam, widely renowned and highly honored Patrons: First, my hearty thanks for the benefits and preferment heretofore be- stowed upon me by you, which at this place will be held in everlasting remembrance. May it please your reverend and estimable body to learn 70 The New York Public Library that after having on the 11th of January Anno 1669, at 5 o'clock in the evening, passed the last buoy at Tessel, 41 and entered the North Sea, I, on the first of March, for the first time set foot on land at New York. The joy of the Lutherans and the sorrow on the side of our opponents which your Rev. Consistory have caused by the sending over of my humble self, I can at present not fully describe, as the ship has unexpectedly got ready to sail. May, next to God, time make things joyful on our side. Thereupon, on the 2d of March, I presented myself before the Hon. Governor General and begged him for a license to preach, which was not denied me, on condition that I must first take the oath of fidelity, which I did the next day. There- after I advised the congregation that they should petition for a confirmation of the privilege, which was also done and obtained, but with the under- standing that ratification thereof must be sought from his Royal Highness, the Duke of York. Thereupon, in God's name, I began publicly to preach, to visit the sick, to baptize and to administer the sacrament of Holy Com- munion, to wit: on Sunday Quinquagesima, my inaugural sermon (die erste Ampts-Predigt); Dominica Reminiscere, the first marriage, and on Oculi I celebrated the Lord's Supper for the first time. The following Dominica Labrarus (Laetare?), 12 men from the congregation, who were found suitable thereto, were, with the general approval and after previous special announcement and the delivery of an election sermon publicly ordained and elected to the offices of elders, deacons and overseers, 42 which went off Lows Superis! Summa cum laude et fructu. I also baptized a Negro of about 50 years, more or less. Furthermore, thanks be to God, I am also instructing some Indians and heathen, which among our opponents causes partly amazement and surprise and partly hatred, envy and slander. Al- though the ministers present here have separately applied to me and asked me [to stop], they have, thank God, nevertheless accomplished nothing, since (absit tamen jactantia), through the grace conferred by Jesus, I have modestly but firmly turned them away, so that at present they do not trouble me any more. However, under pretense of friendship, I consider it expedient to maintain friendly relations with them, as I also do. There is, therefore, nothing lacking or further needed for the future success of the Holy Gospel, except that we lack catechisms and hymnals and money, as well as some suitable persons who, in the event of my death, might take my place and lead God's congregation. Otherwise, the land is like another 41 The island of Texel, on the north coast of the Netherlands. 42 Vorstehern; corresponding to the Dutch term voorstanders, which in other places has been translated as "leaders." The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 71 Palestine and far, I say far — I speak deliberately, from actual experience, and to deceive no one — to be preferred to good [old] Holland, and I believe that in Europe such Lutheranism (Lutterthum) as I intend to plant here hardly exists. I have read the description of the country, both as to the nature and character of the land and the people and as to the fruits thereof, only, Rev- erend Gentlemen of the Consistory, I find it to be far better, and only the evil morals which some of the immigrants bring with them will make it hard and not good. As to the zeal and obedience of my congregation I have thus far nothing to complain of, seeing that they duly observe and let themselves be ex- horted to all godliness; yes, on all sides also take hold, as far as possible and beyond, of all good projects. Since your reverences from this rapture have noticed now my own situ- ation and I am not only certain of your hearty Christian and sincerest good will toward me and toward this distant congregation (on which, before I came here, you have bestowed more than earthly fatherly care), but, as your present lawful pastor and spiritual leader (by God's grace through your reverences' intermediary), I am obliged, not only to wish, but also to seek, spiritual welfare, therefore, my most humble, kind and Christian-brotherly request and prayer are that your reverences to the former favors bestowed by you will be pleased to add the following, namely: That at Amsterdam (where God has many blessed and wealthy people, who by means of your reverences' solicitation and persuasion not only can but will do so ) and in the surrounding places, you will have a collection taken up for the building of a small wooden church and [the purchase of] a couple of small bells (for which we already have permission), and other necessary things; also, for furthering the granting of the Privilege by his Royal Highness, which must necessarily be done. Then, to see to it that we are helped with a hundred hymnals and small Lutheran catechisms, and that one or more students be sent over, who can easily support them- selves here by teaching (but they must first be examined by your reverences and be provided with a Testiminio Examinationis) , in order that they, or one of them, in case of my death, might be proposed to the congregation. Otherwise, the cause of our religion, owing to the great distance and the long delay, may again (which God prevent) suffer a severe blow, against which I also, to the best of my ability, as your reverences have taken care of me and, I hope, will still take care, shall guard. And thereby this good country would, semel pro semper, be helped on its feet. 72 The New York Public Library Should there also be a printer who could supply us with a small collection of type to print ABC books and catechisms, together with some good samples of reading and writing, he could earn his living to his ample satis- faction. Should we wish to employ him as a precentor, I cannot sufficiently say what high benefit the country might derive therefrom. All this now, as it would tend to the glory of Almighty God, to the propa- gation of His only saving word, and the advancement and extension of the community which Christ has redeemed by His blood, not only under the present [commander], but also under future commanders, would likewise redound to the everlasting fame and remembrance of your reverences and your successors, and afford me singular strength, consolation and joy, yes, tend also to the more cheerful discharge of my duties. Therefore, I trust and hope that your reverences will also further be mindful of us. I shall heartily call upon God for the rich reward which here on earth and in heaven [is in store for you] and enjoin my congregation also faithfully to urge the same upon their successors. Commending you herewith heartily to the protection of the Most High, I expect at the first opportunity, either by way of England, or by some other ship that passes here, your cheering and com- forting answer to my prayer, wherewith we must console ourselves. I remain, Reverend and Highly Estimable Gentlemen, of all and singular, your most dutiful, grateful and in prayer bound servant, as long as I live, M[ agister] Jacobus Fabricius Pastor Ecclesiarum Insul: Manhaten: et Albaniae m[anu] p[ro]p[ri]a New York, the 25th Apr. 43 A<>. 1669. P. S. There are a few things more I would have liked to write, but owing to the hasty departure of the ship and because I was about to go on a trip to Albany, I had to save them until the sailing of the other ship. Valete faveteque. The Maculay 44 cause a timid feeling and hasty departure. [Addressed:] To the Very Reverend Ecclesiastical Evangelical Lutheran Consistory at Amsterdam, My great Patrons and Highly Esteemed Gentle- men, This is to be [delivered]. 43 Probably old style date, corresponding to May 5th, 1669, new style. 44 Probably intended for Maquas, or Mohawks. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 73 LETTER from the Lutherans at Albany to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 15/25, 1669 Reverend, Attentive, Highly and Well Learned Pastors and Elders adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. Reverend, Prudent Gentlemen: We, the joint Consistory and members here at Albany, cannot sufficiently express and make known to your reverences our great joy and happiness at the safe arrival here on the 20th of April, old style, of the Reverend and Learned Magister Jacobus Fabricius, who, on the 25th ditto, or Sunday Misericordias Domini, 45 in the name of the Holy, Highly-praised Trinity, preached the first sermon here, for which we, first of all, all together heartily praise and thank Almighty God for having heard and answered our pro- longed wishes and prayer and also for letting shine in these American regions the light of his Holy Gospel, a light for the enlightenment of the heathen at the price of his lost Israel, hoping that by the grace of God the same may shine in these American parts as long as the world exists, for which may God grant his mercy. Amen. Further, we, the consistory and all the members here at Albany, jointly thank your reverences, pastors, elders and deacons at Amsterdam, deeply and from the bottom of our hearts for the sending over ( under the wonder- ful providence of God) of the Reverend Magister Jacobus Fabricius; and, as we cannot repay your reverences for this great benefaction except by a hearty expression of gratitude to God and your reverences, we pray God, who is the rewarder of all goodness, that He may please to reward and repay your reverences for it. Furthermore, whereas we are here a poor, plain community, of small means (though rich in God), therefore, our brotherly and friendly request to your reverences to lend us the helping hand and to assist us, as there is much need of everything, as you yourselves well know what is required for a congregation which is first founded. We would not trouble your reverences in the least if it were not highly necessary and if this congregation ( through God's blessing ) comes to prosper, we shall gratefully reimburse your rever- ences for all that you may have advanced to us. Ending herewith, we commend you Reverend Gentlemen, pastors, elders and deacons, after hearty greetings from all of us, to the gracious protection of the Most High. 45 The second Sunday after Easter. The date was April 25, old style, or May 5, new style. v 74 The New York Public Library In Albany, the 25/15* May A<>. 1669. Your reverences' friends and fellow-brethren in Christ, the pastor and deputed elders of the Christian congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession there. „ TT _ 00 By me, Hans Dreper [Addressed:] Reverend, Prudent, Learned Pastors and joint leaders of the Christian congregations adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession in Amsterdam. [Endorsed:] New York 1669. Received in Consistory the 7th Aug. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] LETTER from the Lutherans at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 29/June 8, 1669 First of all, the Grace of God through Christ. Very Reverend, Honorable, Estimable, Highly and Well Learned, Prudent, Very Discreet Members of the Consistory, all together highly honored, very kind gentlemen and breth- ren in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Very Reverend Members of the Consistory : We, your poor, yet faithful American fellow-believers, wish that these may find you all in good health and prosperous circumstances. We, and also our pastor, are still well in body as well as soul, as far as our congregation outwardly shows and every one himself experiences, due to the pure Evan- gelical Lutheran religion, the practice of which with friends is in full swing among us, whereby may God preserve us. Moreover, we have nothing to worry about, except how our Privilegium Religionis may as soon as possible be obtained from his Royal Majesty of Great Britain, since our opponents with great zeal are trying to prevent this, as was recently pointed out to our pastor by the Hon. Governor General, who asked why we had not begun to promote this matter. For this promotion we would have a good supporter at court in London in the former governor, Colonel Nicols, if only there were some one there to push the matter along, but we lack such a person and most of the means that are required thereto. Therefore, since we cannot help ourselves, our urgent request is that your Reverend Consistory be pleased to earn your reward of us in heaven and to do your best in the matter and, besides ordering a collection, to appoint a capable man for that purpose, in order that the business may be accomplished even this summer. As long as the world exists, our successors will praise you and God's reward will unfailingly follow. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 75 Inasmuch then, as we have always had, and still have, such faith in you, we also hope that you will further be favorably inclined and helpful to us. Wherewith we faithfully commend your reverences and the entire congre- gation for great growth and for our own strengthening to the protection of Jesus Christ and remain, jointly, Your faithful friends and fellow-brethren in Christ, our Lord, the deputed elders and leaders of the Christian congregation adhering to the Unaltered Confession of Augsburg. In New York, on Manhatans, in America, the 8th June, new style, and 29th May, old style, 1669, on which day our pastor, on account of the crowning of the King in England, held a thanksgiving service and preached publicly, whereas no one else preached, which, we hope, will also serve for our best interest. P. S. Your Reverend Consistory will please excuse the poor writing, for in this haste to get ready and in the absence of our other brethren we can get no better writer. [Addressed:] Reverend, Highly Learned, Prudent and Very Discreet Mem- bers of the Consistory, the Hon. Pastors, Elders and joint vorstanders of the congregation of the Unaltered Confession of Augsburg in Amsterdam. » • « MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory. June 19, 1669 Absent: Messrs. Bloem, Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 19th of June Hoppe and Daniel van Anno 1669 Coeschot 1. There was read the letter received from the delegated elders and leaders of our community at New York in New Netherland, of the 23d of April last past, as also the letter from Magister Jacobus Fabricius, their pastor, whereby they advise us of and relate the happy and speedy arrival there of the afore- said Magister Fabricius, the good state of affairs of the community there and especially also that they had obtained an act of consent from the Hon. Governor General there for the free exercise of their religion, of which a copy is inserted as follows: 2. Francis Lovelace, Esq., ... (See translation of Act of Feb. 20, 1668/9, among preceding documents. ) Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Minutes of the Consistory, No. 3, folio 103 v. 76 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory. August 7, 1669 1. There were read the letters received from the leaders of our church at New York. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions, Protocol No. 3, fol. 106 v. « « LETTER from the Elders of the Lutheran church at New York to the Amster- dam Consistory. June 30, 1670 Reverend Gentlemen of the Consistory, our beloved and very great Bene- factors: We hope that your Reverences duly received our last of the 27th of October from New York 46 to your Reverences at Amsterdam, from which you will have learned our situation here and how our pastor, Magister Jacobus Fabritius, conducts himself here. We can, therefore, now that the oppor- tunity offers itself, not refrain from informing you once more that he does not behave himself or live as a pastor should. He is very fond of wine and brandy and knows how to curse and swear, too. In his apparel he is like a soldier, red from head to foot. He married a woman here with five children and has dressed them all in red. For himself he has had coats and a hat made like the pastors at Hamburg wear. He pays little attention to people, so that our opponents or neighbors have nothing else to talk about but the Lutheran pastor. This has lasted as long as he has been in this country. He traveled to the South River without notifying any one of us and remained there for seven weeks. When he came back and preached again, he an- nounced from the pulpit to the entire congregation that we must write for another pastor. It seems that he likes it better among the Swedes at the South River. There he can follow his own will and live in the woods, away from the people (in dem busch van de liieden). Our governor here in this place wishes that he were gone, for he has much trouble on his account. The man has caused us much expense, both at Fort Orange and here. He has been once at Fort Orange and got into such trouble with the magistrates there that he is not allowed to come back. We here and at Fort Orange have agreed with him about his salary and allowed him eighty beavers for one year. On that he could live decently here in this country if he were a capable man. Thanks be to God, we now have the privilege from his Royal Majesty and the Duke of York himself of burying our own dead and doing all that goes 46 It is not known whether this was received, and no copy of it came with the photostats from Amsterdam. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 77 with it, for we bought a house here, with a place for a churchyard, and had the house put in order, so that we perform our services therein until we can build a church. All we now [need] is a capable pastor. Therefore, our friendly request to your Reverences is that you may please once more take the trouble to provide us with a capable pastor and, if possible, a young man who is not married. The good Lord will unfailingly reward for this. And if you should incur any expense in so doing, you will please let us know; we shall with grateful hearts refund and make good the same, for here and at Fort Orange [congregations] are established, so one cannot let them perish again. That, one could not justify before God. If our Rev. Magister had been a capable man, we should have flourished here, since our neighbors are not provided with ministers either. The Rev. Ablentie [Megapolensis] is dead and Domine Drisies [Drisius] is not much good, his head being in a muddle, 47 so that by this opportunity they have likewise written for a minister. Herewith we faithfully commend your Reverences to the protection of Jesus Christ and remain, Your reverences' dutiful servants and delegated elders of the congregation adhering to the Augsburg Confession in America. On the island of Manatans, in New York, the 30th June Anno 1670. Johan Beeckman Baij Kutjesfelt Davidt Wessel Johan Frese [Addressed:] The Reverend, Highly Learned, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen of the Consistory, the Pastors, Elders and joint Leaders of the Church of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. [Endorsed:] New York, June 30, 1670. Received, October XI, 1673 (?). Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] LETTER from the elders of the Lutheran church at New York to the Amster- dam Consistory. August 22, 1670 Reverend Gentlemen of the Consistory, our beloved and very great Bene- factors: We have heretofore written to your Reverences and hope that your Rev- erences received said letter and from the contents learned our opinion. We 47 met dat hovet verwohret; meaning that he was afflicted with a weakness of memory. 78 The New York Public Library cannot refrain from writing again, as it is necessary and a good opportunity now offers itself by a young man named Dirich Petersen, born at Femeren, who is a member of our congregation. We have written to your Reverences several times, but received no answer from you. Anno 1668, the last of January, your Reverences sent us the Rev. Magister Jacobus Fabritius, but he brought no letter from your Reverences with him. We kindly received and welcomed him here and immediately tendered and paid him the ex- penses of his passage. We have also agreed with him about his salary and allowed him eighty beavers or two thousand guilders in seawan, for which he is to serve us and Fort Orange. We have also paid him in full for the past year, 1669, according to his own receipt, but how he has conducted himself may perhaps have come to your ears. He does as he pleases. This past spring he went to the South River, without notifying any one of us elders or members of the congregation. He remained there seven weeks. Then he came back and we called on him to welcome him and let it go at that. The following Sunday he preached his sermon and thereby, before the entire congregation, took his leave, without having indicated by a word to the elders that we should look around or write for another pastor. He has continued to perform his duties until this date, but we can get no assurance from him. He will not state whether he will stay or leave, so that we do not know where we are at with him, whether we have a pastor or not. Consequently, we are on a loose basis. He is at present at Fort Orange, to perform his service there. The trouble between him and the magistrates has been settled. Therefore, as we can get no assurance from him, it is necessary to make our situation known to your Reverences and the whole congregation kindly and humbly request your Reverences that you may be pleased to provide us with a young pastor, in order that this good work which has been begun may not be lost again. Even if our Rev. Magister remain with us, it is never- theless highly necessary that your Reverences provide us with another pas- tor. The reason is that when our Magister is above at Fort Orange, our congregation here suffers. It seems that the good people would rather hear a sermon preached than have someone read to them. In the same way it goes at Fort Orange, when the Magister is with us, so that in order to go well, there must be a pastor at each place. Furthermore, pastors are mortal like ourselves and if we have two pastors and the good Lord summons one from this world, we still have one left, whereas if we have only one and the good Lord summons him, we are without a pastor and do not forthwith have another, for no pastors are to be had here. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 79 Here at the Mannates we bought a dwelling house with a yard, which we shall use as a graveyard, for, praise God, we all have liberty to bury our own dead and to toll our own bells, if we were rich enough to have any. In the house which we bought services are held. [The congregation] is small [even] if our Rev. Magister is here and we do not have the power to make it larger. We therefore turn to your Reverences and very kindly request that it may please you out of Christian and brotherly love to assist us therein a little, for which you may expect your reward from the good Lord. As this is a newly founded church and much is needed and most of the people are plain and poor, we shall all acknowledge such help with grateful hearts. No more for the present, except to say that our hope and trust are in your Reverences and we hope that you will always keep us in mind. Herewith we faithfully commend your Reverences to the protection of Jesus Christ and remain, Your reverences' dutiful servants, The deputed elders of the church of the Augsburg Confession in America. Jochim I. B. M. Beckman On the island Manatans, David Wessels in New York, the 22d of A. Res August Anno 1670. Marten M. M. Meyers Baey Kueesfelt MlCHDZL TADENS JOHAN FRESE [Addressed: ] Reverend, Highly Learned, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentle- men of the Consistory, pastors, elders and joint leaders of the church of the Unaltered Confession of Augsburg at Amsterdam. [Endorsed: ] The original of the above copy was at his request given to Dom- inus Bernhardus Arntsius to take with him on his departure as pastor for New York, which is noted here by way of memorandum. Arnst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 17th of De- cember Anno 1670 Point 1. There was read the letter received from the deputed elders of the congregation of the Augsburg Confession at New York, on the island of Manhatans, in America. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions, Protocol No. [3], fol. 147v. 80 The New York Public Library LETTER from the elders of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amster- dam Consistory. January 22, 1671 Reverend Gentlemen of the Consistory, our beloved and very great Bene- factors: We hope that your Reverences duly received our last letter dated the 22d of August 1670, addressed from New York to your Reverences at Am- sterdam, in which we informed your Reverences of our situation. As another opportunity now offers itself, we cannot omit to do our obedient duty and to send your Reverences this short letter, which we hope may find your Reverences in good health. We also wish your Reverences a blessed New Year and hope that you will at all times be our affectionate and dear fathers and benefactors, as we intend to remain your dutiful and obedient children. We therefore once more turn to your Reverences with our old and former complaints and hope that your Reverences have kept in mind our former letter to your Reverences about a pastor, whom we are awaiting with great longing. Our neighbors also wrote last summer for a preacher, whom they expect by the first opportunity. We hope that we may be rejoiced with them. If, however, your Reverences have not kept our kind request in mind, or there has been no opportunity, we once more kindly request your Reverences to be pleased to remember us for the sake of this Christian congregation and to supply us with a suitable man, in order that this newly formed church may not perish again. As far as his salary and support are concerned, God willing, care will be taken of that here; of that your Reverences need not have the least doubt. Our Rev. Magister went last fall to Fort Orange to perform his service there. We expect him back in the spring, so that we have to be all winter without a pastor. It is therefore very necessary to have another pastor, if things are to go well here, for, praise and thanks be to God, we have full liberty to have what we want. This was [written] by the Duke of New York with his own hand to our governor general, who showed and read it to our Rev. Magister and two elders. Moreover, as the English here are in every way favorably inclined toward us, we hope that we may therein be con- soled by your Reverences. Commending your Reverences herewith faithfully to the protection of Jesus Christ, we remain, Your Reverences' faithful and dutiful servants, the deputed elders of the congregation adhering to the Augsburg Confession in America, on The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 81 this island of Manatans, in New York, Anno 1671, the 22d of January, old style. Henderich Willemsen Bay Keusfelt Johan Frese [Addressed:] Reverend, Highly Learned, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentle- men of the Consistory, the Rev. Pastors, Elders and all the leaders of the Church of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession in Amsterdam. [Endorsed: ] 1671, New York, 22 January. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] » » « LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the elders and councilors of the Lutheran Church at New York. May 4, 1671 Reverend, Wise, Prudent and Pious Friends and Fellow-brethren in Christ: Your letter of the 22d of August Anno 1670 was duly received by us in the fall and latter part of the said year, from which we learned and received a circumstantial account of the situation of your congregation and what happened between Magister Jacobus Fabritius and you since his arrival there. We were heartily glad to hear that you have complete liberty and freedom there for the exercise of religion and we are pleased to notice your great zeal in extending and continuing the church of Christ in those heathenish lands and parts. We should not have neglected to send you before this, in accordance with your request and petition, another capable and pious pastor if we had known of and had found an opportunity to do so. And whereas now, through the providence of God, we have secured for that purpose the bearer hereof, the Reverend, learned Bernhardus Arntsius, pastor of the church of our Confession at Medemblick, here in Holland, we have, in the name and behalf of your church at New York and Fort Albany offered and extended to him the service and call under the conditions which you ordered us to offer, which said service his Reverence has also accepted and agreed to in the name of God. And whereas we know his Reverence and under God's blessing judge him to be a man of such talents and learning as are required to build up and edify your church, the said Domine Barnhardus Arntsius is sent to you herewith. We request that upon his arrival and com- ing there you will please receive him as your pastor and grant him a proper certificate (vocatiebrief) thereof. 82 The New York Public Library Hoping that the said call may tend and redound to the glory of God's holy name, to the propagation of His dearly bought church and the sal- vation of many people, we hereby commend you jointly and severally, after our greetings, to the gracious protection of the Almighty. In Amsterdam, this 4th of May, Anno 1671. Your faithful friends and fellow-brethren in Christ, the pastor [s] and deputed elders of the Christian congregation adhering to the Augsburg Confession there. Signed by order of the same, [No signatures] [Addressed:] Reverend, Wise, Prudent and Pious Deputed Elders and eldest Councilors of the congregation adhering to the Augsburg Confession in America, on the island of Manatans, at New York. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] LETTER from the Elders of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam to Skipper Claes Borat. May 17, 1671 Worthy, good Friend, Skipper Claes Borat: Whereas we are informed that Domine Barnhardus Arntsius, of Medem- blick, and his wife have embarked in your ship to sail in the same to New York in New Netherland and we have promised him and agreed to pay and satisfy his passage and board in case the same is not done by the friends in New Netherland who have engaged and called the aforesaid Domine Barnhardus Arntsius, this serves for your security and assurance that we hereby promise that upon your return we shall pay and satisfy the passage and board of the aforesaid Domine Barnhardus Arntsius and his wife, in case the same are not paid to you in New Netherland. Hereby recommending to you to provide proper accommodation and treatment of the aforesaid Domine Arntsius and his wife during the voyage, on which we rely, we hereby remain, Your faithful friends, the deputed elders of the Lutheran Church in Amsterdam. By order of the same signed by me, N. van Born, Secretary In haste, Amsterdam, May 17, Anno 1671. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 83 LETTER from the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Con- sistory. December 19, 1671 Very Reverend Gentlemen of the Consistory, our beloved and very great Benefactors: Your Reverences having, in response to our writing and request for a pastor, sent us the Reverend and learned Bernhardus Arentzius, our hearty thanks be to God for having so fatherly preserved him and his dear wife and allowed them to arrive here safe and sound, for which praise, honor and glory be to God the Most High, from now on forevermore. We and the whole congregation thank your Reverences for having taken care of us in such a brotherly and fatherly fashion and provided us with a capable man whose life conforms to his preaching, so that now, God be praised and thanked, the mouths of our neighbors are closed and that, with- out being asked, they themselves must admit that we now have obtained a man against whom nothing in the least is to be said, and that we now live together in peace and harmony. Magister Fabritius has gone to the Swedes on the South River; how long it will last, time will show. Therefore, our friendly and humble request to your Reverences is that you may please to pay the passage money of our aforesaid pastor, Dom. Bernhardus Arntzius, to skipper Niclas Verbroeck and satisfy him, as at present we have no money here and have no surplus on hand and the time now has expired when the money for the purchased house used for preaching must be paid, so that we are unable to do so, other- wise we should not burden or trouble your Reverences therewith. We shall here pray the good Lord that it may please Him to bless your Reverences in some other place and that He will not let you want for all that you do for us. We hope that these may find your Reverences in good health and wish your Reverences a blessed, joyful and happy New Year. We also hope that at all times you will be and remain our affectionate and dear fathers and benefactors. Herewith we faithfully commend your Reverences to the protection of Jesus Christ and remain, Your Reverences' obedient and dutiful servants, the pastor and deputed elders of the church adhering to the Augsburg Confession in America, on the island of Manatans in New York, the 19th December 1671. Henderich Willemsen Bay Keusfelt Marten M. M. Meyer Johan Frese 84 The New York Public Library [Addressed:] Reverend, Highly Learned, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentle- men of the Consistory, the Pastors, Elders and joint leaders of the Church of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] e o s LETTER from Rev. Bernhardus Arnzius to the Amsterdam Consistory. De- cember 19, 1671 Reverend, Highly Learned, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen, the Pastors and Leaders of the Christian Congregation adhering to the Un- altered Confession of Augsburg; Friends and Fellow Rrethren in Christ Jesus: Since the Almighty has let me and my dear wife after an uncommonly perilous voyage arrive on this American coast, I cannot neglect to advise your Reverences thereof by these few lines, thinking of the sailors and sea- faring men who, having reached shore, tell of their good speed and the perils of the voyage, of which the poet Horace sings: Gaudent ibi vertice raso Garrula securi narrare pericula nautae. 48 Having set sail from Texel in the morning of the 17th of the past month of May, being Whitsunday Anno 1671, to proceed on our voyage to New York, we arrived with a favorable wind on the 19th ditto at Downs. After having lain there at anchor for fourteen days, we again sailed from there on the 1st of June, with a favorable wind. But it did not last long, for in the Channel we were continually struck by heavy gales until, toward evening of the 9th ditto, in the entrance of the Spanish Sea, we were caught by a violent storm. As Neptune played his tricks and stirred the green billows with his trident, I thought that our last hour had struck, and as my wife was lying very ill in her bunk, this made me the more fearful. This storm lasted until the next day, when our bowsprit was cracked and the entire bow was rent. The same day came a renewed hurricane with thunder and lightning, so that the sea and sky seemed joined together. Aeolus roared with terrific rain, Jupiter hurled his many-pronged shafts of lightning in the north and south and immediately his voice of thunder crashed, so that the air and water reverberated. The third storm, on July 20th, before the Ber- mudas, was the worst of all. After having passed through these and similar anxieties (in order not to repeat here the entire journal), we at last, on the 48 This is not from Horace but from Juvenal (satire 12, lines 81-82). The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 85 7th of August, arrived at the Manhatans, in New York, thanking God for our safe arrival, according to the example of Paul and as the poet Virgil sings in Book n of the Aeneid si qua est caelo pietas, quae talia curet, persolvant grates dignas et praemia reddant debita. Having arrived here at the Manhatans, I hoped to have passed through all difficulties, but, alas, a dark, thick cloud of woe awaited me. My beloved wife ( who the entire voyage across had lain abed ) came down with a mortal illness for six weeks. The congregation with their former pastor, Mag. Jacobus Fabritius (now at the South River), I found in a very dangerous condition, always experiencing myself what the Roman poet sings: Ludit in humanis divina potentia reb.[us] et certam p. .sens* 9 vix habet hora ftdem. But the Lord has thus far helped in everything, restored the health of my aforesaid wife and through me settled the differences and disputes between the aforesaid congregation and Mag. Jacobus Fabricius, as on both sides, both by Mr. Fabricius and by the congregation, I am held in great respect and authority. I pray our merciful God that He may be pleased to direct this newly begun work to the glory of His holy name, the propagation of his dearly bought church and the salvation of many souls. And herewith, after my Christian-brotherly greetings, I commend your Reverences, jointly and severally, to the gracious protection of the Almighty. America, on the Manhatans, in New York, the 19th of December Anno 1671. Your Reverences' faithful fellow-brother in Christ Berhardus Arnzius, V. D. M. P. S. Reverend, etc. Gentlemen: Be pleased to send to these poor churches in this heathen country at the first opportunity a quantity of Lutheran psalm books, either in cloth or in linen ( which on account of the high cost cannot be bought here by us ) and to collect and to receive and to send to me, what is due to me by the congregation at Medemblick for my laborious services and preaching (being one and a half years' salary), whereby your Rev- erences will again oblige me in the highest degree. Idem, Bernh. Arnzius, V. D. M. [Addressed:] Reverend, Highly Learned, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen, Pastors and Leaders of the Christian Church adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 49 Indecipherable. 86 The New York Public Library LETTER from the pastor and leaders of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. October 20, 1677 Reverend, Highly Learned, Honorable, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen, Worthy Fellow-brethren in the Lord Jesus Christ: After friendly and brotherly greetings to your Reverences and the in- dividual members of the entire congregation, as also to all acquaintances who may live among you, our friendly and brotherly request is that your Rev- erences will please forward the enclosed [letter] to the honorable pastors and consistory of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession in East-Friesland at Esens, trusting that your Reverences will gladly and willingly oblige us therein. We and our entire Christian congregations on the Manhatans and at Albany are still in good and reasonably flourishing condition, living with one another in Christian harmony, concord and peace. We have more than abundant reason to throw down our crowns before God's highest majesty and to glorify His holy name by praising and thanking Him for the great mercy which His Highest Majesty in the course of the past six years has been pleased to grant us, inasmuch as we are now provided with churches of our own and dwelling houses 50 for our pastor, whereas in the time of Jacobus Fabritius, our former pastor, we had neither. We find ourselves at least in these peaceful times with our pastor, Rernhardus Arntzius, under God's blessing in mutual [harmony], but one thing makes us very sad and oppresses us, causing no little consternation among the entire congregation. According to our poor judgment it seems to be the sole object of our oppo- nents to frighten and terrify the Christian members and confessors of our pure religion founded on God's Word, yes, by their practices to exterminate us altogether here in America, which may God prevent. Your Reverences will please listen to the matter yourselves. It has recently been discovered that by a shrewd and crafty practice we are jointly and each one in particular compelled to help support the ministers of the Calvinists, as we are yearly and every year made to do, if not willingly, then by force, which seems to us to be a matter without fairness or justice, yes, contrary to the liberties granted and given to us by his Royal Highness the Duke of York, our gracious lord and ruler. Moreover, nowhere in Europe can we find an example of such things, especially as we, not pressam, but liberam ecclesiam, not sub cruce, but in flora, exercise our religion, as is done here. And if this should continue in the future, as to all appearances it is to be expected, inasmuch 50 At New York and Albany. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 87 as we have two or three times personally called on the honorable governor and complained about it, but without result, etc.; therefore, this being, alas, so, we would pray your Reverences as Christian brethren to intercede for us with his Royal Highness, in order that this dark cloud which hangs over us may disappear. Otherwise it will finally end badly with us here, for we have enough to do to support our own pastor, whom we still owe two thousand guilders, both churches having enough trouble to support one Lutheran pastor and it being impossible for them to support two pastors, as is being agitated here in urging your Reverences to send over another pastor. If this were done, the two [churches] would be totally ruined. Worthy fellow-brethren, we must end. Commending your Reverences and the entire congregation, whom may God bless and increase, to the gracious protection of the Most High, to your salvation, we remain further at all times, Your Reverences' fellow-brethren in Christ Jesus, Rernhardus Arnzius, p.m. [pastor magister?] cornelis van der rurch Davit Wessels This is M. M. the mark of Maerten Meyer Severyn Lourentz In haste, on the island Manhathanz, in America, this 20th of October Anno Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary consistory meeting, held on Wednesday, the 23rd of March, Anno 1678. The letter received from members of our Confession on the Manathans and at Albany in the West Indies, dated October 23, Anno 1677, 51 was read, whereby they remonstrate and complain that they are there being com- pelled to assist in supporting the minister of the Reformed religion. And whereas this is a matter without precedent, and is not only contrary to all fairness and justice, but also in violation of their liberties which had been graciously granted them by His Royal Highness, the Duke of York, they request therefore that this Consistory intercede for them with His Royal Highness, that they may remain free from this obligation. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions, Protocol No. 3, fol. 325. 51 See preceding letter, which is dated October 20, 1677. 88 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary consistory meeting, held on Wednesday, the 20th of April Anno 1678. [point] 1. Willem Hendricksz., 52 the brother-in-law of the Rev. Bernhardus Arents, pastor of the congregation of our Confession at Manathans in New Netherland, appeared and related that he had received a letter from the Manathans advising him that it was rumored there that this Consistory planned and intended to send thither a second minister. Being thereupon informed that there had never been any such intention nor any deliberation on the subject by this Consistory, he requested that the pastor and elders of the said Manathans congregation might be notified thereof by a letter from this Consistory, which was granted. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions, Protocol No. 3, fol. 325 verso. LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the pastor and leaders of the Lutheran Church at New York. May 4, 1678 Reverend, Attentive, Learned and Wise, Prudent and Discreet Friends and Fellow-brethren in Christ: Your honors' letter of the 20th of October of last year, 1677, was duly received by us, from which with special pleasure we learned in detail the present condition of your church there and that since six years ago you have through God's gracious blessing managed to bring about that at present you are provided with your own churches and dwelling houses for your pastor and that with your entire congregation you are still living in a reasonable state of prosperity and in Christian harmony and peace, for which the Almighty is to be praised and thanked. As to the affairs and doings which not without weighty reason make you sad and concerned, namely, that you jointly and each one in particular must help support the ministers of the Reformed churches outside your jurisdiction, which contribution is yearly by force, by form of execution, demanded and collected from the unwilling, we hope and trust that in time you will surmount this and be relieved of it, as this, also in our opinion, is a matter which is contrary to fairness and justice and especially in violation of the liberties and privileges graciously granted to you and the members of our Confession by his Royal Highness the Duke of York. Wherefore, 52 Hendricksz stands for Hendricksen, the final "z" being a typographical substitute for the medieval contraction sign "3." The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 89 in our opinion, it will be necessary that you yourselves address your com- plaint in writing to his said Royal Highness the Duke of York, together with the reasons of your objection and your request to be hereafter relieved thereof, and send the same to London to the pastors and leaders of our church there, whereupon by them and through the intercession and pleading of some ambassador or other high personage of our Confession there better results may be obtained. As to the rumors which may have been spread among you that we intended or were planning to send to you a second pastor and preacher, this serves to inform you that we never thought of this, much less have had any pro- posals or discussions about that in our consistory, nor, to our knowledge, have ever been requested to do so, so that you do not have to worry about that. After our Christian-brotherly greetings, we hereby commend you jointly and each one in particular, together with the entire congregation, to the gracious protection and care of God for your desired well-being and sal- vation. Amsterdam, this 4th of May Anno 1678. [Not signed] [Addressed:] Reverend, Attentive, Learned, and Wise, Prudent and Discreet Gentlemen, Mr. Bernhardus Arnzius, pastor, and the joint leaders of the Evangelical congregation adhering to the Augsburg Confession on the island Manathan, in America. , , Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] LETTER from Rev. Bernhardus Arnzius to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 28, 1684 Very Reverend, Highly Learned, Honorable, Wise, Prudent Gentlemen; Friends and Fellow-brethren in Christ Jesus: The subject or matter which with a heart filled to overflowing with sorrow is presented to your Reverences in this little paper in order to draw your Reverences toward me with compassion, is an account of what recently, in the full exercise and discharge of my ministerial function, has befallen me on the part of some importune and surly persons. In the year 1683, on the 20th of the month of December, before the high festival of Christmas, as, according to our custom, on said day the Holy Communion of the Lord's Supper is administered and I with one of the 90 The New York Public Library deputed elders called on the members of my congregation and had a private talk with them, I also addressed myself to a house where the husband, a blacksmith, named Manis, is by religion a Calvinist, and the wife belongs to our Lutheran religion. As soon as I put my foot on the threshold of the said house, the aforesaid man, raging and with a bare knife in his hand, came running toward me, placed the knife on my chest and uttered the dreadful words: "Now it will cost that Lutheran priest 53 [his life]." I answered his godless actions and words with a friendly speech, saying: "Well, my friend, is this your gratitude toward me for coming to admonish your wife to come to the Lord's Supper and to church?" He replied, with a Satanic fury: "Go away, devilish priest, etc. My wife shall go to my church with me, etc." These and other dreadful insults offerred to me at such a time, however, notwithstanding the fact that this man could have been brought to justice and publicly punished, I have forgiven him, after he had knelt before me in the presence of the magistrate before whom I had made a complaint against him, thinking of that holy and excellent example of David and Saul, and the golden rule of Christ, Matth. 5 and Paul, Rom. 12, and what is constantly in my heart and mouth: Nihil magnum est in rebus humanis, nisi animus magna contemnens et Deum unum atque solum admirans atque colens. And again, Pati oportet quae emendari o. poseunt et Deum sine murmure comitari, magnus ille et animus que se totius deo tradit. Such mercy shown to the aforesaid delinquent ought according to every one's calm Christian judgment be compensated as far as I am concerned, but far from it, for veterem ferendo injuriam invitavi novam. For notice, your Reverences, when thereafter, in A. D. 1684, 1 held the extraordinary evening services in Albany, where the former tragedy took place, many of our opponents of the Reformed Church attended the services, yes, in larger numbers than those of my own congregation, which in comparison to theirs is much smaller, even their own minister, Dom. Dellius, in person attended all services but one, together with two magistrates and their elders, so that I was obliged to frequent their auditorium in return, as I did twice, so that a mutual intercourse and friendly disposition on the part of the Calvinists was hoped for. But, noticing that they were deceived in their expectations and surmises, as, through God's grace, although according to their taunts we are but a small, poor group, we by our steadfastness destroyed their hopes, some of them from sheep became wolves and on me in particular the sentence of 53 The Dutch word is paep, literally, "papist." The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 91 Christ has been passed. Ovis in medio luporum, the most cruel lupus, is this above named smith, to whose wicked teeth it has pleased God in his inscrutable providence to deliver me, munde immunde, in te habitare et o. [rbem] docere impossibile, etc. Now, I am sufficiently aware of the consolation of God's Word and I also know how to arm myself against all the arrows of Satan and his henchmen. But, oh, that consolamini, consolamini. May God console and strengthen me through Jesus Christ. As for my congregations, at New York as well as Albany, everything is still quiet and peaceful. Glory and thanks be to God for His mercy. The rest, which is lacking in this writing, I hope that the bearer and deliverer hereof, Monsieur Simon Leeuw[en] Bos ( Leeuwenbos? ) , chirurgeon and medicus, a pious member of our church, who has lived here decently for eight months and [attended church] with such diligence as not to have missed a single service and to have appeared three times at the Lord's Sup- per, will be able to communicate to your Reverences orally. Therefore break- ing off here and recommending myself to your Reverences' favor, kindness and love, I commend your Reverences, together with the multitudinous Christian congregation to the blessing of God in Jesus Christ. Amen. New York, Anno 1684, the 28th May, old style. Your Very Venerable Gentlemen's dutiful and faithful fellow-brother in Christ Jesus, Bernhardus Arnzen, V. D. M. [Addressed:] Reverend, Highly Learned, Honorable, Wise and Prudent Gentlemen, the pastors and elders of the church adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] see MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary consistory meeting, held on Wednesday, the 5th of Novem- ber, 1687. After the reading of last week's minutes, a letter from New York, May 28, 1684, relating to some difficulties experienced by Pastor Bernhardus, was read, which letter, being of ancient date, was laid aside for further consideration, after the bearer thereof had been heard. But as the latter requested some aid, he was referred to the deacons. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Protocol No. 4, fol. 357. 92 The New York Public Library PETITION of the Elders and Deacons of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory, praying for assistance in supporting a pastor. June 9, 1696 Kind Gentlemen and Friends, the Reverend Pastors, Elders and Deacons of the Augsburg Confesstion at Amsterdam: We, the elders and deacons of the Augsburg Confession at New York and in the province thereof, humbly and with due reverence show that, whereas it has pleased God to take our pastor out of this world, we have now for five years been without a pastor. That we have not written sooner, you will please excuse. It is due to the war, which is very hard on us and causes us to be heavily pressed and taxed, and forced the country people to leave their plantations. Whereas it is our bounden duty and our hearts urge us to do so, we have taken the liberty to make this known to the Consistory and the Brethren, in order that the dearly bought church may not perish for lack of a pastor. Therefore, our hearty request is that for the love of Jesus Christ you will please extend to us the helping hand, in order that we may have a pastor and that the glowing spark may not be entirely ex- tinguished, as under the present circumstances we are not able to support a pastor entirely. As the highest need presses us, we pray the Brethren, the Reverend pastors, elders and deacons, to assist us therein. God the Lord will reward the Brethren for doing so. We doubt not but that with God's help and if He be pleased to grant thereto His blessing, there will in time be a good congregation here and we hope that the Brethren may be pleased to favor us so that we may have a pastor. We shall all do our duty as far as it lies in our power and ability, in order that the children and young people may not be entirely led astray. The Lord God will reward you, here temporarily and hereafter for evermore. We remain your faithful brothers and servants, Anthoine Lespinard Johan Merckerk DmCK VAN DER BuRGH JaCORUS COLYER Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary consistory meeting, held on Wednesday, the 17th of October, 1696. Appeared before us Jan de Wit, who came from New York on the ship "de Bever" and who was taken first by the French and later by a priva- The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 93 teer from Zeeland. He says that he was sent by our congregation there with letters to this body, requesting a clergyman for this congregation, which letters were taken from him in Zeeland. He requests our intercession for the restoration of these letters, or, if that be refused, the sending of a clergyman thither. In his absence it was resolved to write to Mr. Verborn, in Zeeland, who is interested in the above-mentioned privateer "Blikken- burg," of which ship Cornelis Cornelisz, is master to the end that the afore- said letters addressed to us may be sent to us. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory No. 5, fol. 77. LETTER (summary) from the Amsterdam consistory to Mr. Verborn. October 17, 1696 The Consistory writes to Mr. Verborn in Middelburg, that Jan de Wit, on his return voyage from New York on the ship "de Bever," about several weeks ago, was first captured by a French privateer and within a week thereafter was recaptured by the ship "Blikkenberg," whose captain is Cor- nelis Cornelisz. Said captain took from him a certain letter addressed to this Consistory by the Lutheran Congregation in New York, containing the request that a teacher (i.e. pastor) be sent them. The Lutheran Congre- gations in New York and in Amsterdam would be greatly indebted to him, if he would see to it that this letter reached the addressees. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letterbook, 1682-1698, fol. 378. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary consistory meeting, held on Wednesday, the 7th of Novem- ber 1696. There was read a letter from New York, dated the 9th of June, 1696, from the elders and deacons of our church there, requesting our assistance in obtaining a pastor in the place of their deceased pastor, whom, however, they were not able to support entirely alone, for which reason they request our support and assistance therein. Whereupon it is ordered to write back that as long as they are not able to support a pastor themselves, we cannot undertake to induce any subject to travel for that purpose to America, or to furnish any funds for his subsistence, unless they first please to notify us how much they are able to pay a pastor, in order that, having learned this, we may help promote their object as far as it is in our power. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory, No. 5, folio 81. 94 The New York Public Library LETTER ( draft ) from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York. November 9, 1696 Especial [Friends]: In answer to your letter of the 9th of June 1696, which did not reach us until the 7th of November, this serves briefly to say that as long as you judge yourselves not capable at this time of supporting a pastor entirely (which we are very sorry to hear, as heretofore you were able to support two pastors), 54 we cannot undertake to induce any pastor to move to America, or to furnish any means for his subsistence, unless you first be pleased to notify us about how much it is in your power to pay such pastor promptly each year for his salary and support, in order that, having learned this, we may be able, as much as is in our power, to comply with your request. Wherewith, commending you to the protection of God Almighty and wishing you all blessings as to soul and body, we remain, after cordial greetings, ^ signed ^ To the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York Amsterdam, 9 November. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, 1682-1698, p. 380. LETTER from the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. [September 12, 1699] 55 Especial and much beloved Friends and Brothers in Christ Jesus: From your letter of the 9th of November 1696, which was received by us on the 17th of August 1697, we understand that the Consistory cannot resolve on our request, unless we first make known what it is possible for us to pay promptly each year. We have therefore submitted the matter to the congregation, creating great joy among them. We find that in this bad time we are able to collect and yearly promptly to pay three hundred and fifty guilders, Holland money, amounting to forty-three pounds and fifteen shill- ings of this country's currency. We hope that in these bad circumstances the Consistory will be pleased to assist us. It would, indeed, be a pity if for want of a pastor so many young people and children went and were, led 54 On the contrary, the letter to the Consistory, dated October 20, 1677, said there was "enough trouble to support one Pastor." 55 Date obtained through letter of the New York Church, dated December 12, 1700. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 95 astray, and we shall pray God Almighty that it may please Him to grant us relief according to His will. Wherewith, commending you to the protection of God Almighty and wishing you all blessings as to soul and body, we remain, with cordial greet- ings, Your, etc. Gentlemen: The foregoing is a copy of our last letter, by way of Curacao. As we have received no answer, we suppose that it has not been received. We request the friends and brethren to grant the above request. God the Lord will reward your Reverences for it. Wherewith, commending you to the pro- tection of the Most High, we remain, your Reverences' affectionate friends and brothers, The elders and churchmasters or councilors, Jan Evertsen Peter Woglom DmCK VAN DER BURG Casper Steinmets burgert meyndersen Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 18th of Novem- ber 1699. A letter was read from New York, without date, 56 in response to ours of the 9th of November 1696, [received by them] on the 17th of August 1697. It is ordered to write in reply that it is not in our power to take any action in the matter as long as they find themselves unable to appoint any one here to remain surety and give security for the promised salary and the payment of the cost of the passage of a pastor from here and back home. Therefore, we recommend to them to appoint a suitable person for that purpose and, if possible, to increase the salary of fl[orin] 350. We shall then do our best to look around among our brethren for some candidate for the position, whom, however, for the present we do not yet know. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 5, folios 250-251. 56 The copy of the letter dated September 12, 1699, q.v. 96 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. December 12, 1700. (Enclosing copy of letter of September 12, 1699. ) Gentlemen and Friends: The foregoing are copies. Our last letter was of the 12th of September 1699, by an acquaintance, to be delivered. He says that he delivered it to a deacon of the Lutheran church, at whose house it must have lain, since we have received no answer. We beg the friends and brothers to be favorably inclined toward us in the matter of the preceding and above mentioned request and urgently request that you send us a line or two, according to which we shall govern ourselves. Herewith we commend you to the protection of the Most High and remain your affectionate friends and brothers, the elders, deacons and churchmasters and church councilors, BlJRGERD MEYNDERSEN PlETER WOGLOM Jan Evertsen Johannies Langransie [Johannes Lagrange] New York, the 12th of December, 1700. Am.il Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 20th of April 1701. There was read a letter from New York, dated 12 December 1700, en- closing copies of two preceding letters sent by them to us in response to our last letter of the 9th of November 1696, stating that they are able to furnish annually fl[orin] 350 for the maintenance of a pastor and requesting on those terms to send them a suitable candidate. Resolved, to write to them by every possible opportunity that we received their last letter, but neither of the two others of which they sent us copies, 57 and that we shall on occasion look around for a suitable candidate and, if possible, try to persuade him in response to the offer made by them to accept their service and go to New York. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 5, folio 306. 57 See the Minutes for November 18, 1699. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 97 LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York. April 27, 1701 Especially [good Friends], etc. On the 20th of this month we duly received your last letter of the 12th of December 1700, in response to ours of the 9th of November 1696, addressed to you, but neither of the two others of which in your said last letter you were pleased to send us copies. We therefore make this answer all the briefer, namely, that we have seen from your letter that you intend and are able to contribute and to provide at least three hundred and fifty Carolus guilders a year for the maintenance of a pastor. We shall on all possible occasions that may arise look around for a suitable candidate and, if possible, try to dispose him on these promises and the assurance given by you at a con- venient opportunity to go to New York for your service and edification, for the success of which we wish you the blessing of God Almighty. With hearty greetings, we commend you to the protection of the Lord and remain, Your very affectionate friends, By order of the Consistory. Amsterdam, 27 April 1701. To the Reverend Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, 1698-1730, p. 35. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 8th of March anno 1702. After reading of the minutes kept this day two weeks ago by Mr. Coopman and a week ago today by Mr. Boutin, in the absence and on account of illness of the secretary, Ds. Dominicus exhibited a letter addressed on the 24th of February by Joost Schram, of Hamburg, to the ex-elder, Jan Brand, recommending Magister Lutter for [the office of] pastor of New York and requesting to know the conditions thereof. After discussion it was unani- mously resolved to send, under cover of the above named Brand, a copy of the conditions sent to us last by the brethren of New York, with the added statement that, if he resolved to accept them, a small ship for New York was 98 The New York Public Library being loaded here to sail thither in two or three weeks, of which the aforesaid Magister could avail himself, Ds. Dominicus being delegated and requested to hand said copy to the above named Brand. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 5, folio 347. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 29th of March, Anno 1702. After reading of the preceding minutes, Ds. Dominicus notified the meet- ing that he had been informed by Ex-elder Brand that Magister Lutter had resolved to go to New York and for that purpose to come hither, if we would give him 24 rix-dollars cash for traveling expenses, which sum he would afterwards cause to be deducted [from his salary]. Which being considered, it was provisionally resolved by the elders present to summon him hither and then to make such further disposition as shall be proper, Ds. Dominicus being requested and appointed to communicate said answer to the above named Brand. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 5, folio 348-49. o o o LETTER from the Rev. Justus Falckner and the Consistory of the Lutheran Church — New York, to the Amsterdam Consistory. 58 November 10, 1705 We, the Pastor, Elders and Deacons of the Evangelical Protestant Congre- gation adhering to the unaltered Augsburg Confession at New York and surrounding places, wish grace and blessing in and through Christ to the very Reverend, God devoted, very respectable, highly learned and very provident gentlemen, the Pastors, Elders and Deacons, and all worthy mem- bers of the highly laudable Consistory of the Evangelical Protestant Church adhering to the unaltered Augsburg Confession, at Amsterdam. Very Reverend, Highly benevolent gentlemen, and Dear brethren in Christ our common Saviour: We should deserve the name of uncivil and ungrateful people if we did not often refresh ourselves with the memory of your zeal and care for the true Evangelical Protestant Church in this country and did not arduously apply ourselves to inculcate the same in our children and descendants, that you and your late Predecessors' memory may remain in blessing with us in this new world. It is you, conjointly with your respective forefathers, who, 58 This is a revision of the translation published in Julius F. Sachse, Justus Falckner, p. 81-84. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 99 by the grace of God, have largely contributed in times past by sending us godfearing learned and faithful Shepherds to gather a flock into that Sheep- fold over which you also were appointed Shepherds by the Arch-shepherd Christ Jesus. You are those faithful Stewards in the Kingdom of Christ who, by supplying Laborers, have promoted God's Husbandry in this wilderness. All sheep who by this means have been saved from error and perdition in this wilderness will call you blessed. The wheat which through your help and care has been gathered into the barns of our heavenly Father, shall in the day of the everlasting and infinite bliss not leave you hungry. Isaiah 65: IS. Blessed and consecrated hands which are helpful in sowing good seed, where otherwise weeds and thorns grow, injuring the good soil and making neglectful servants suffer for their Indolence, with soreness and wounding of hands which were unwilling to be instrumental in nurturing those plants of the Heavenly Father. And because we firmly believe that you still bear a hearty affection towards our little Christian Congregation, we, in all due Respect, will on this good occasion give you briefly to understand the situation, and condition of our said Congregation. It is well known to you respectively that, since the death of the late Mr. Bernhardus Arentius, we have been many years without Pastor. Hence it is that our Congregation has become dispersed, the young people and many of the older ones have gone over to the so-called Reformed Sect, until, three years ago, at our request, a Swedish minister, Mr. Andreas Rudmann from Pennsylvania, came over but remained with us only a little over a year on account of his circumstances which called him elsewhere. He did, however, not leave us until by his zeal he had persuaded another person, who had already been living for some years in this country, to have himself at our formal request and call appointed as our present regular Pastor. He is by birth a German, from Saxony, where he studied Theology, and was, accord- ing to Christian custom and usage of our Evangelical Church, ordained to the holy Office by the Swedish Lutheran Ministerium of Pennsylvania, on the 24th of November 1703. He has therefore been with us now for nearly two years, and fills his office in such a manner that neither we nor anyone else has rightly anything to remark on his life and work. Our congregation here is very small, because its members are dwelling far and near throughout the country; the majority of them are poor and many, especially the young people, ignorant on account of the lack of Bibles, Catechisms, Psalm and Hymn books, and it would be of great service here to have a booklet in which, by means of short questions and answers, 100 The New York Public Library the difference between the Lutheran and the so-called Reformed opinions were exposed, every point thus concluding, "Therefore the Lutheran opinion is the better one." Although the salary with which our Pastor at present is satisfied is small, it is nevertheless pretty hard and difficult to raise it. Our church building also is very dilapidated and will not long be suitable for the holy service, so that we intend to decide to build a small new church if God will move more such good hearts as our Lutheran fellow-believers at St. Thomas in the West-Indies have proved to be who sent us, as a beginning, three hundred pieces of eight some months ago. We are the only Dutch Lutheran Congregation in America that is still in some form of order, and it would be a thousand pities and unwarrantable, if it can be helped, to let this single little spark be extinguished by those owls who hate the light, especially since we enjoy, through the highly laudable English government, every kind of Protection and good-will, and because there is hope that this our congregation, if supported only a little at first, will in this Country rejuvenate itself as an Eagle and be an asylum to many wandering and erring souls. We do not doubt but you will take to heart our sad condition — the sad condition of a congregation which Christ has bought with his own blood — and as a loving foster-mother not deny us the breasts of your love, care and comfort. We ask no more than that your abundance may serve our wants, yes, the wants of a portion of the Body of Christ who in the day of judgment will to you also say, "As ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me." We do not speak for our- selves and our private interests, but for the Church of Christ; we cannot but obtain a hearing from such eminent leaders of the same as we know you respectively to be, and in firm confidence hold all of you as such. Thus we commend the same to the Grace, Love and Mercy of the great God and our Savior J. C; assuring you that with all due respect and true sincerity of heart we sign ourselves and remain, Very Reverend and Highly benevolent Gentlemen, Your very devoted Servants, Friends and Brethren. Justus Falckner, Past. Loci. Johann Vielt P. Bruyns Johan Michael Schutz JOHANNIS LAGRANSIE PlETER WoGLOM [Addressed:] The Very Reverend, God devoted, very respectable, highly learned and very provident gentlemen, the Pastors, Elders and Deacons, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 101 and all worthy members of the highly laudable Consistory of the Evangelical Protestant Church adhering to the unaltered Augsburg Confession, at Am- sterdam. [Endorsed:] New York 10 Nb r 1705. Received 3 March 1706. EXTRACT of a Letter of Andrew Rudman, New York City, to Justus Falckner. 59 September 21, 1703 I beg and beseech you to listen; let me give you some new and surprising news for you to weigh earnestly and in prayer. I am resolved to leave this Province, settle my Pennsylvania affairs for an indefinite period, and see Sweden again. What shall I do about forsaking my little flock? Looking everywhere, I find no one better fitted than yourself to whom I may safely entrust my sheep. Weigh these considerations: 1 ) It will clearly be a divine call. When Samuel was called of God, he thought the voice was Eli's. Why? Because God may have imitated the voice of Eli. So you can be convinced that God is calling you through me. All the many theologians I have studied under will agree heartily. 2) In Europe you could have gotten bigger and richer Churches but I know you would have been out of place in the de- praved life of the courtiers and the others. Here, the situation is different: helpless sheep, scattered, few, compliant, obedient, thirsty, and famished. 3) You seem to have been called from the womb, and so you can dig up your talent with a good conscience. 4 ) You have honored me with the name of Father, so give ear to this fatherly admonition. If I can prevail upon you to accept the sacred office, you will be ordained by us, the Swedish ministers etc. If you refuse I shall be forced to leave the little sheep without a successor. That would be arduous and difficult, etc. A > , n A. M. Rudman Amst . Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] EXTRACT of a Letter of Andrew Rudman, New York City, to Justus Falck- ner. October 14, 1703 Episcopal authority to consecrate Churches, ordain etc., has been dele- gated to me by the Bishop, especially in a case of this kind. It has been done before in Pennsylvania among the Swedes by Domine Lars Lock who 59 Originals of this and of the three following "Extracts" are in Latin. All four "Extracts" were probably enclosed with the letter of the New York Church to the Amsterdam Consistory, dated November 10, 1705, q.v. 102 The New York Public Library ordained Avelius there etc. Further, you remember that the Lutherans in Holland were without a Bishop, and thereupon were ordained by joint action of the Presbyters. Henceforth let there be no doubt but that the Bishop in Sweden, because I shall inform him of the case, will absolutely send his approval here, if you will agree to be subject to his oversight and guidance. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] EXTRACT of a Letter of Ericus Bijorck, at Christina, to Justus Falckner. November 19, 1703 The All- Wise knows best how to turn your stubborn flight to good purpose and, as is now apparent, to the benefit of many, having sent you ahead into this American wilderness, so as not to lose there your divinely entrusted talent, but rather to multiply it, that the Householder might receive His own with great gain. For Him, a desert place often proves to be the richest soil. So you now have fallen into the very thing from which, unwisely per- haps, you once fled. Your flight proved to be your very commission and call from God to this Province. You were looking for hiding places. But He, from Whom no one can hide, now seeks to call you out from them. When someone, who desires only his own gain, doesn't double, much less multiply his talent, but along with the unprofitable servant, buries it under the ground; and when, at last, just as he is likely to receive severe punishment for his folly, then nothing pleases God more than that he devote his life to common service, especially the care of souls. So step forward, now, into the public eye and be useful. We are not born unto ourselves but unto others, and especially unto God and His Church. You have been thrust providentially into the ministry of His Church, and your ministry is more needed here than in your native land, etc. Am ^_ Luth _ ^ Arch _ [PortfoUo AmericaJ EXTRACT of the Ordination Certificate of Justus Falckner. 60 November 24, 1703 The Founder and Preserver of the Sacred Ministry, God himself in para- dise first [vouchsafed] to provide. . .[that] all who are truly and properly 60 The original ( in Latin ) is in the archives of the Lutheran Historical Society, Gettysburg, Pa. Photostat in The New York Public Library, Manuscript Division, in folder: N. Y. City-Churches- Lutheran. Facsimile of another signed copy ( also in Latin ) , the text of which differs somewhat from the above, is in Julius N. Sachse, Justus Falckner, Phila., 1903, between p. 74-75; this signed copy is probably in the archives of the Lutheran Church in Sweden (cf. ibid., p. 74). This diploma of ordination is from a form printed in Upsala in Sweden. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 103 called to this sacred office can enjoy a tranquil conscience, and think back on their call with special comfort, which, as a shield, can protect them against every weapon of adversity. Among their number must be counted the very rare and distinguished Master, Justus Falckner, who, having been properly ordained by prayer and the laying on of hands on the 24th day of November of this year, has been appointed to the Ministry of the Church. We pray that God, the Greatest and Best, will crown with success the work of this new minister, daily increase abundantly his God-given gifts to the glory of His Name and the welfare of His Church, and also fitly reward him. Given on the day of ordination in the year 1703 in Wicaco, Pennsylvania. Andreas Rudman Formerly Pastor at Wicaco, afterwards of the Lutheran Church which is in New York in America, now about to return to the fatherland Emeus Bijorck Pastor of the Church at Christina Andreas Sandel Pastor of the Lutheran Churuh at Wicaco in Pensylvania Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 3d of March, 1706. A letter was read from New York, from the leaders of the congregation in New York, [dated] November 10, 1705, requesting some subsidy to the said brethren for the building of a new church in the place of their old, dilapidated one, [the consideration of] the contents of which letter belongs to the chosen Elders (Gedep[uteerd]e Ouderlingen). Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. [5], folio 468. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 6th of July, 1712. There was read a letter from New York, dated December 12th, 61 signed by Pastor Justus Falkener and addressed to Dom. Empsychof, requesting from the Deputy Elders some books for his congregation. Resolved to send 61 Photostat copy of this letter was not received from Amsterdam. 104 The New York Public Library to him and to donate to the aforesaid congregation one large folio Bible, 50 Psalters, 50 Paradijshofjens ( Paradise Gardens ) , and 50 Haverman's prayer books, Messrs. Simon Burg and Cornelis de Meyere being appointed to pro- cure the same. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 51. LETTER from the Elders of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam to the Rev. Justus Falckner. July 8, 1712 Reverend, Highly Learned Sir: Upon the request of our reverend pastor, Domine Bernhard Henric Empsychof, made in your Reverence's name to the Deputy Elders, they have decided to send to your Reverence the accompanying books, to wit: One folio Bible, 50 Psalters, 50 Paradijshofjens, and 50 Haverman's prayer books, and to offer the same to your Reverence's congregation, with the wish that they may serve for the propagation of your Reverence's congregation, wherewith, after cordial greetings, we remain, By order of the Elders, Amsterdam, July 8, 1712. [Not si § ned] Domine Justus Falkner, Pastor of the Lutheran Church at New York Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, page 202. O O LETTER from the Elders of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam to Rev. Justus Falckner. February 17, 1713 Reverend, Highly Learned Mr. Justus Falkener: The Consistory of the Lutheran Church here has, in response to your Reverence's letter of September 12, 1712, sent to your Reverence's congre- gation a small case with books, wherein are packed a large folio Bible, 50 Psalters, 50 Paradijshofkens, and 50 Haverman's prayer books, which case, marked L. G. N. 1, was loaded at London by Messrs. Luttman & Remmers, on November 7, 1712, in the ship named "Succer," Charles Stow, master, bound for New York. The aforesaid Consistory has thought it necessary by this good opportunity to advise your Reverence thereof, in order that, when the ship arrives at that place, your Reverence might know where to get hold of such case, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 105 requesting further that your Reverence notify us as soon as the same shall have arrived. In expectation whereof we remain, after cordial greetings, Your Reverence s affectionate friends and co-brethren in Christ. By order of the Elders of this Church, [Not signed] Amsterdam, February 17, Anno 1713 To New York Amst Luth ch Arc ^ Letter Boo j. f t ^ e Consistory, page 207. LETTER from Rev. Justus Falckner to the Amsterdam Consistory. June 9, 1713 Respective Very Reverend, Highly and Well Learned, Reverend, Right Hon- orable and Very Discreet Gentlemen and dear Fellow Brethren in Christ, the Pastors, Elders and Deacons of the Christian, Protestant Lutheran Church in Amsterdam: The admonition of Ecclesiastes, "Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days," your Reverences and Honors have been pleased to take to heart also toward me and my small congregation dwelling across the great ocean from your Reverences, by so disposing of your Reverences' tem- poral means that of the heavenly bread of which the Heavenly Father has made you the keepers ( for so far as it is contained in the Holy Scripture ) , some has been sent over to us and reached us. Even the Paradijs Hojfje, in its fifty copies, will not give us chaff or weeds and the fifty copies of Haverman's [prayer book] give us no oatmeal, because he has done his plowing and cultivating on the Wittenbergh, where it is customary to raise pure wheat. Therefore, let the sound of David's harp, with which the lovely voice of the singing throng to the number of fifty will go well, ring out freely, and, our hearts being strengthened, let us rejoice in the Lord. It now remains for me heartily to wish and pray that your Reverences may find this bread which you have thus sent across the waters, now and after many days, yes, unto eternity; now, by all kinds of blessings in your respective offices, charges, lives and business; after many days, or rather, at the end of time, when the Lord Jesus shall speak to the members of His Church and praise this deed of mercy: "I was hungry and thou hast given me food." For, certainly, there has until now been a spiritual hunger among 106 The New York Public Library many of this small congregation here for this food of their soul which they, each in his measure, draw from such holy and spiritual books. Yes, God grant that they may find in eternity what your Reverences have sent across the waters through a common, eternal joy on account of the good effect, im- pulses and fruit which it has had and called forth among many pious Christians. Furthermore, it is my duty and that of the entire small congregation to thank your Reverences from the bottom of our hearts and further to recom- mend ourselves to your Reverences' kind remembrance, prayers and love, as we, according to our feeble power, shall not fail therein with reference to your Reverences. Finally, I humbly pray your Reverences to be pleased to refer to my letter and the enclosures to the Rev. Barnhardus Henrich Empsychoff, sent herewith, and to be assured that I sincerely am and shall remain, Your Reverences' and Honors' humble servant and fellow-brother in the Lord, Justus Falckner, Past. Eccle. Prot. Luth. Nov. Ebor. Americ, for myself and in the name of our entire Consistory [Addressed:] To the respective Very Reverend, Highly Learned and Well learned, Right Honorable and Very Discreet Gentlemen, the Pastors, Elders and Deacons of the Christian Protestant Church of the unaltered Confession of Augsburg, at Amsterdam. New York, June 9, Anno 1713. 62 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 16th of August, 1713. There was read a letter from the congregation of New York, dated June 9th, thanking this assembly for the books sent over. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 75. 62 The letter is a duplicate copy of a letter of May 12, 1713. The duplicate of later date is used for translation because it is the one acted upon by the Consistory in August. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 107 LETTER from the Rev. Justus Falckner to the Rev. Bernhardus Henrich Empsychoff, pastor of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam. 63 October 23, 1713 Right Reverend, Most Highly Honored Sir, Very Kind Patron, Dear Fellow- brother in Christ: This is the fourth letter which I venture to send to you since, through your Christian theological zeal, I received from the very laudable Consistory of our Holy Church at Amsterdam the blessed present of the 50 psalters, 50 little "Paradise Gardens," 50 Haverman prayer books and a large Bible, for the use of my congregation. I call it rightfully a blessed present, for so blessed has it been that many members of the small scattered congregation, who were as good as asleep, yes, dead, have through these books become awake and alive and found renewed zeal and courage to remain within the obedience of our Holy Church and to exercise themselves in the true faith and in godliness, whereas heretofore some thought that we were forgotten by the community at large, as one forgets the dead, and that we had become like a broken vessel; yes, they hardly dared openly to confess their faith, as almost no books thereof are seen here and none can be obtained here. Especially the psalters, as far as the 50 have been able to go, are a potent means of arousing the young people, of attracting them to practice true Christianity and of teaching them what is needed thereto. I have no doubt but divine providence will further provide means and ways to make the word or Christ henceforth dwell richly among us. There is here now, even among the so-called Reformed, a great awakening and many have asked for Lutheran psalters, but as the young people who are already members of our congregation must be provided first, I can not supply them therewith. If your Right Reverence, when there is an opportunity, could provide me with a church agenda, containing all the formularies, not only of con- fession, the sacraments, marriage, burial, etc., but also those of ordination, in octavo, with good, large print, you would thereby greatly oblige me. I feel the freer to write to you about such matters because I recognize that your Reverence is an instrument chosen of God to lend the helping hand to the American Christian Church, still in labor of childbirth. May it please our Heavenly Father to create and send over all sorts of means and instruments whereby His fruitful bride as well as her offspring in this wilderness may be provided and strengthened against the dragon which stands before them, in order that what has long lain waste may be cultivated. 63 Original in German. 108 The New York Public Library I close herewith for the present, with hearty and sincere yearning before and in the face of our Immanuel that He may protect and bless your Rev- erence and the entire Reverend Ministerium of your city, as well as the entire laudable Consistory and Church Council and your respective congregations, with all blessings, growth and expansion, and beg you to acknowledge me as Your Right Reverence's sincere and faithful servant and fellow-brother in the Lord Jesus. Justus Falckner, Past: Ecclie. Prot: Luth: Nov-Ebor: c. Alb: Americ: [Addressed:] The Reverend, Godly and Highly Learned Dominus Mr. Bern- hardt^ Henrich Empsychoff, Minister of the Divine Word of the German Lutheran Congregation at Amsterdam. [Endorsed:] New York, October 23, 1713, from D e . Justus Falkner. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 20th of June, 1714. After reading and approval of the last minutes, kept this day two weeks ago, a letter was read from Justus Falkener, pastor at New York, written to Ds. Empsychof, deceased, dated October 23, Anno 1713, requesting a church agenda. Resolved to send a copy to his congregation and one to his Reverence. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 94. LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York. July 30, 1714 The letter dated October 23, 1713, written by your reverend pastor, Domine Justus Falkner, to our reverend pastor, Domine Rernhard Henrich Empsychof, deceased, was on the 20th instant delivered from his late resi- dence to this Reverend Consistory, from which the said Consistory has learned your Reverences' request for a church agenda. The Consistory have therefore thought fit to send your Reverences hereby two copies thereof, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 109 one to be for your aforesaid reverend pastor and the other for your con- gregation. Also, to add thereto as a present 12 bound octavo psalters and 12 ditto duodecimo ones, for distribution to those in whose hands your Reverences think they will do the most good for the upbuilding of our religion there. Wherewith, etc. Amsterdam, July 30, Anno 1714. To New York. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, page 224. LETTER from Rev. Justus Falckner to the Amsterdam Consistory. October 3, 1715 Very Reverend, Highly and Well Learned, Right Honorable and Especially Highly Venerated Gentlemen, very kind Benefactors and dear Fellow Breth- ren in Christ: The poor little Lutheran church in New York having received the splendid, generous present of 24 psalters and two church agenda sent to it as so many new tokens of your Reverences' favor and affection toward your said small and humble sister, hereby expresses its due gratitude, praying the Lord, our Savior, as the sole, general Head of His Church, that He may richly reward such love on your Reverences' part. And just as with great sorrow we have learned that the church of God at Amsterdam and in Holland has lost a faithful laborer in the late Bernhardus Henrick Empsychoff, so, on the other hand, we have learned with great joy that the Lord of the Harvest has sent in his place another renowned and faithful laborer. May our merciful God pour out over the entire church in your place an abundance of prosperity, life, health, protection, growth and all sorts of spiritual and heavenly blessings through Christ, which is the hearty wish of your Reverences' humble but true fellow-brethren, The Lutheran Congregation in New York and, in their name, of Justus Falckner, Sox. Germ., Past. Eccle. Trot. Luth. N. Eboraci et Albani[a]e in America [Addressed:] To the Reverend Consistory of the Christian Church adhering to the Unaltered Confession of Augsburg. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 110 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 15th of July, 1716. A letter was read from the Consistory of New York, dated October 3, 1715, thanking for the church books sent over. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. [6], page 122. o o o LETTER from the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. June 12, 1717 Respective Very Reverend, Godly, Highly and Well Learned, Right Hon- orable and highly honored Gentlemen and Fellow Rrethren in Christ: When last year one of our fellow-brethren, named Johan Michael Schiitze, was in Holland on personal business, he asked, out of zeal and Christian affection for our true religion, for some assistance to build a new church here in New York. And whereas your Reverences are filled with and rich in that true love whose nature and characteristic it is not to weary, you, for the purpose of the said request, presented him with one hundred Holland guilders. Our duty compels us hereby to express our hearty thanks for these and other benefactions received from your Reverences, with the assurance that we shall take all possible care to conduct ourselves as and prove our- selves to be good husbandmen of your love and that we shall not cease to wish and pray heartily that it may please our Immanuel to be your Rev- erences' shield and great reward as well as that of His congregation under you. We further request that we may always have the honor to call and write ourselves and to be, Respective Reverend Gentlemen, Your grateful, sincere and faithful fellow-brethren, Justus Falckner, Past. Eccles. PlETER WOGLOM Baeren[t] van Hooren pleter van boscerck Johannes Lagransie Charel Beckman Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 111 LETTER of Andrew Hesselius to Justus Falckner. 64 July 3, 1721 As to Bernhard von Dieren I have been able to discover nothing from him except his singular zeal ( would that it had been more wisely directed ) for serving the church which he canvassed with such earnestness and such cares and troubles. I only dread that much injury may result; for if he be un- fortunately transferred to administer affairs for which he has not been fitted, he must neglect both his order [?] and their duties, and corrupt those of others. If, as he professes, he be actually a Lutheran, I wish, that, being mindful of Luther's doctrine, he would acquiesce in his words: "Await the One who calls thee; meanwhile, be secure. . . If He need thee, He will call thee. No one is enriched by the word, unless one who, without his wish, is called to teach." How in every way this declaration of Luther is harmonious with the practice of the ancient and purer church, the words of the Emperor Leo will testify. The minister of the word of God ought to be so free from ambition that he is to be sought for as one who has to be constrained; being asked for he retires, and being invited he shrinks back. Let the necessity of making an excuse be his own recommendation. Only he, is worthy of the ministry who is ordained unwillingly. Such is the opinion of Andrew Hesselius, Pastor at Christiana and Provost of the Swedish Churches in Pennsylvania. In a letter to Dominie Justus Falckner, dated 1721, on the day of St. James the Apostle. o o o PETITION of the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory praying them to send over a pastor. December 11/22, 1723 To the Reverend and much respected Gentlemen, the Pastors, Elders and Deacons of the Lutheran and Unaltered Augsburg Confession in the city of Amsterdam: We, the undersigned, the Consistory of the Lutheran and Unaltered Augs- burg Confession in the city of New York, in the province of New York, situated in America, under the jurisdiction of his Royal Majesty of Great Britain, etc., King George; Find ourselves obliged hereby to make known to your Reverences that we, together with the rest of the congregation in this city of New York, 64 Original in Latin. Revision of the translation by Henry E. Jacobs, in Sachse, Julius F., Justus Falckner, p. 111-112. This item was enclosed in the letter of Rev. W. C. Berkenmeyer to the Consistory, dated [October 21. November 1, 1725], q.v. 1 12 The New York Public Library adhering to the said doctrine, are at present deprived of a Nether-Dutch pastor or preacher for the said congregation in this city of New York by the death of the Rev. Justus Valkenaar [Falckner], which occurred recently. Which said Ds. Valkenaar in his lifetime served not only the church and congregation in this city, but also those of the said Unaltered Augsburg Confession which are found outside, especially up the North River, both in and around Albany, in this province of New York, and also now and then took care of the services at Hakkensak, in the province of New Jersey, near New York. In regard to which service we and those of Albany had jointly agreed that in the summer time the said Ds. Valkenaar would take charge of the services here in this city of New York, for which service here the said Ds. Valkenaar has received from us annually twenty-five pounds, New York currency; and that during the winter season the said Ds. Valkenaar would conduct services in Albany and thereabout, for which he has received from them yearly like- wise twenty-five pounds, New York currency, making together the sum of fifty pounds, money of New York, each New York pound being generally counted here as equivalent to eight guilders of Holland. So that for the entire service he received fifty pounds, New York money, a year, or four hundred guilders, Holland money, which, in view of the smallness and feeble power of the said congregations was as much as it was possible for them to con- tribute for the support and payment of a pastor. For the sake of the welfare of our churches and congregations in these parts we are therefore obliged to trouble your Reverences, not only by making this known, but also by adding thereto our humble and friendly request to you, Reverend Gentlemen and Fellow Brethren, whether your Reverences will please take the trouble and undertake to provide our con- gregations in these parts with another capable Nether-Dutch pastor of the Lutheran and Unaltered Augsburg Confession, to fill the pastorate among us and to be like a Shepherd over the same. But whereas the present sudden departure of Johannes Sybrandsz., our fellow-brother and the bearer hereof, for Holland, via England, and the approaching winter season now prevent us from notifying the other congre- gations existing at Albany and thereabout, as well as at Hakkensak, and likewise from obtaining their consent to the calling of a Nether-Dutch pastor and the carrying out of the promise to pay annually the 25 pounds New York currency, as was done by them to the late Ds. Valkenaar, and we cannot guarantee or bind ourselves for those 25 pounds (paid by those of Albany), The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 113 although we do not doubt but that they will annually raise and pay a like sum of 25 pounds to the new pastor, if they are served by him on the same basis as was done by the late Ds. Valkenaar, or else that the same will be paid by those of Hakkensak, of which we have good hopes, we have never- theless neither wished nor been able to neglect, but felt it our duty, to avail ourselves of this present suitable opportunity by our above named fellow- brother, Johannes Sybrandsz., who will be able to inform your Reverences further, orally, how everything is situated here as to our churches and congregations. It has been, therefore, among us, the Consistory of the church and congre- gation in this city of New York, unanimously decided hereby to propose to you, Reverend Gentlemen and Fellow Brethren, whether your Reverences could find for us a capable person and induce him to come to us as our pastor and to perform the services in the Dutch language. In which case we, the undersigned, are ready and by these our signatures, as Consistory of the said congregation, bind ourselves to pay such pastor of the New York congregation for his service yearly the sum of twenty-five pounds, New York currency, as was paid by us to the deceased, to be paid quarterly, each quarter year one true fourth part, this being the utmost which we in this city of New York, according to our feeble power and small number, can annually contribute, being 200 guilders Holland currency. We hereby, in the same capacity further promise and bind ourselves as above to pay here to such pastor as is to be appointed for us and to be sent over, as soon as he sets foot on land here and shall have shown to us his letters of call and appointment as our lawful pastor, for the time he has been in our service from the confirmation until his arrival here in New York, the sum of twelve pounds, ten shillings, likewise in New York currency, amount- ing to 100 guilders, Holland money. In addition to which our aforesaid fellow-brother, Johannes Sybrandsz., shall provide and pay for the free passage hither of his person and the costs of transportation of his effects, both at Amsterdam and in England, and the freight thereof here, without the pastor coming over having to defray any part of the cost. For the greater encouragement of such pastor coming over we shall mean- while, at the first suitable opportunity notify the congregations at Albany and thereabout and at Hakkensak of this our request already made and our power of attorney for the calling of another pastor and, according to our ability seek to bring about not only their consent and approval thereof, but also, that they may continue and persist in paying yearly the twenty-five 114 The New York Public Library pounds, New York money, as they used to do to the late Ds. Valkenaar, or, otherwise, that such promise be made by those of Hakkensak, of which, as already stated, we have very good hopes, provided that they be served by him on the same basis as before. And furthermore, that by their signatures they also bind themselves to carry out said promise and also promise to pay, upon his arrival here, as soon as they have knowledge thereof, a like amount of twelve pounds, ten shillings, being one hundred guilders, Holland cur- rency, for the time he has been on his voyage hither, as we hereby promise to do in the name of the congregation in the city of New York. Of which we, Reverend Gentlemen, as soon as we have assurance and notice thereof, shall further inform you, in order that, if no one should be inclined to come over to us as pastor solely on this proposition and promise made for the congregation of New York of a yearly salary of 25 pounds New York cur- rency, or 200 guilders, Holland money, at least, as we hope, when those of Albany and thereabout and in addition those of Hakkensak bind themselves for a like sum of twenty-five pounds a year, some one may then be found and induced to come over to us as pastor on an annual salary of 50 pounds, New York currency, or 400 guilders, Holland currency ( and in addition some perquisites and emoluments belonging to the office of pastor, of which our above mentioned fellow-brother, Johannes Sybrandsz. can give you also further information of which it consists ) , and for that sum properly to dis- charge the duties here, as well as in Albany and at Hakkensak. And in order that you, Reverend and highly esteemed Gentlemen, may be the better able, if it is possible, to carry out this our request, we give your Reverences by this power of attorney all necessary power, right and capacity to issue, as our representatives, a complete call in this case and to engage and appoint for us a Nether-Dutch pastor of the Lutheran and Unaltered Augsburg Confession, namely, a single person, whether a young man or a widower, but without children or family; learned, of exemplary conduct and prudent in conversation, who is fit as a peaceful, pious and faithful pastor to occupy that office among us in the city of New York and properly to dis- charge its duties, on the conditions mentioned above, to wit: For the New York congregation a yearly salary of 25 New York pounds, amounting here to 200 Holland guilders, and in addition twelve pounds, ten shillings, or 100 Holland guilders, once, to be paid on his arrival here, together with free passage, freight and other expenses at Amsterdam, in England, to this place, of his person and effects. We promise that upon the arrival of such person, chosen and appointed by your Reverences as our lawful pastor, on the conditions above mentioned, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 115 we shall acknowledge and regard him as such and receive him with all re- spect, love, esteem and affection, praying Jehova to grant His blessing thereto and that through your Reverences' helpfulness He may provide us again with a good pastor and that at the first opportunity the same may safely come over to us. We hope that your Reverences will excuse the liberty we have taken and will willingly take upon yourselves the requested task and not leave your fellow-brethren discomfited, but in every way offer them the helping hand. For which purpose we have given the above mentioned Johannes Sybrandsz., our fellow-brother, a special open letter, containing a request for your Reverences' and other good people's generous gifts and contribu- tions for the support of our churches and congregations in these parts, of which we are willing to send you from time to time an account, showing how such generous gifts are spent and invested here. It is our hearty and affectionate wish that God may long preserve you, Reverend Gentlemen, and your families and prosper them in every way and richly bestow His blessings upon them. Wherewith, commending your Rev- erences to God's protection, we meanwhile remain your Reverences' fellow- brethren and faithful servants. Thus done, signed and sealed in the city of New York, situated in North America, the 11th, O. S. „ —r 1 of December, 1723. 22d,N. S. PlETER WOGLOM johannis lagrangie w. schlydorn Charel Reckman Andrtes van Roescerck [Roskerck] Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the first of March, 1724. After reading and approval of the minutes of the last [meeting] held on the 16th of February, there appeared Johannes Sybrandsz., delegate from our brethren in the city of New York, situated in North America, who de- livered a power of attorney signed by the said brethren under date of De- cember 22, 1723, new style, whereby they request this assembly to be pleased 116 The New York Public Library to call for them, in the place of their deceased pastor, Justus Valkenaar, who had charge of the services there, as well as at Hakkensak and in Albany, a capable Nether-Dutch pastor, being a single person, either a young man or a widower, but without children or family, at a salary of four hundred guilders, Holland money a year, to be paid one-half by those of New York and the other half by those of Albany and Hakkensak. They bind them- selves for their half, but not for those who reside in Albany and Hakkensak, as the winter season prevents them from notifying them of this their request and from obtaining their consent to the calling of a new Nether- Dutch pastor and their promise and agreement to pay yearly their half-share, as was done by them to the deceased Dominus Valkenaar, although they doubt not but those of Albany, or else those of Hakkensak, will yearly contribute their half-share also. They further promise to pay to such pastor coming over, as soon as he shall have arrived there and have shown his letters of call and appointment, one hundred guilders, Holland money, for his passage and all expenses of transportation of himself and his effects, both at Amster- dam and in England. Whereupon Dominus Michels is requested, inasmuch as we know of no candidate here and the aforesaid Johannes Sybrandsz. makes a proposition to go to Hamburg and to look for a candidate there, to draw up for the same a certified copy in German of the said power of attorney, with a recommendation to the Reverend Ministerium there, and to have this, pro- vided with our church seal, signed by the secretary. There was further read a letter from the New York brethren, 65 requesting us and other congregations for some assistance. The above named delegate was told that this request will be considered when he returns from Hamburg. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Minutes of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 300-301. o a o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Extraordinary Consistory meeting held on Monday, the 22d of May, 1724. After prayer, Dominus Velten, President Pro Tern., announced that this extraordinary meeting was called at the request of the presiding elder, Mr. Laasbye, for the reason that he had received a letter from Hamburg, from Johannes Sybrands., delegate from New York, in which he reports that he has found there a candidate for that church and requests that we will please 65 This means the concluding paragraph of the letter of December 11/22, 1723. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 117 send him a draft of a call. Resolved that no draft of a call, but a copy of the power of attorney from the brethren at New York, signed by our secretary and provided with our church seal, be sent to him. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 309. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 5th of July, 1724. Upon the further insistence of Renaud Brand, in a letter from Hamburg, dated June 30th, written to Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard, and by them communicated to us, on a confirmation by this Consistory of the New York call for the student, Wilhelm Christophel Berkenmeyer, it was resolved to have the secretary write to the said student that whereas he is not disin- clined to accept the call of New York on the conditions mentioned in the power of attorney that has been shown to him, he will please come hither, provided with proper academic testimonials and credentials from the Min- isterium at Hamburg, when we shall examine him and, when the require- ments are fulfilled, tender him a formal call in accordance with our power of attorney. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 316. LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to Wilhelm Christophorus Berck- enmeyer. July 6, 1724 Mons r . Berkenmeyer: Whereas from the letter of Mr. Renaud Brand, written on the 30th of June last from Hamburg to Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard and by them communicated to us, we see that you are not indisposed to accept the call of New York on the conditions set forth in the power of attorney which has been shown to you, you will please come hither, provided with proper testimonials from the Academy and the Ministerium of Hamburg, when we shall examine you and, when the requirements are fulfilled, tender you a formal call in accordance with our power of attorney. Meanwhile we remain, 6 6 ' Your affectionate friends, By order of this Consistory, Amsterdam, July 6, 1724. [Not si § ned ] [Addressed:] To the Candidate, Wilhelm Christophorus Berkenmeyer at Hamburg Ajmt Lufh ch Arch Letter Boo f. Q f fhe Consistory, page 334. 118 The New York Public Library LETTER from Wilhelm Ch. Berckenmeyer to the Amsterdam Consistory. 66 July 17, 1724 Very Reverend, Devout and Highly Learned, as well as Noble, Honorable, Very Distinguished and especially Highly Esteemed Gentlemen and much appreciated Patrons: Your Reverences have honored me through your secretary, Casparus van den Broeck, with a letter dated the 8th of July, which I unsealed with due respect and veneration and for which I am greatly obliged to you. In this letter it is stated that you have learned from Mr. Brandt's let- ter that I am inclined to accept the call to New York, on the conditions indicated by the power of attorney shown to me. On my part I see from your letter that I must go to Amsterdam before you will extend the call to me. Now I cannot deny that after Mr. Sybrand of New York had among others proposed me to the Rev. Ministerium of Hamburg, I had not arrogantly declined, but with the approval of celebrated and Christian theologians decided that if your laudable Consistory at Amsterdam should be pleased to send me a call, I would honor and follow the divine hint. But I had to try out this divine hint here on myself, whether God would so direct things that a simple call would be sent to me by your Reverend Consistory. I had the more reason for that as I had here both a public and a private call which, according to the advice of the above mentioned theologians I should not give up until I was certain of another call, especially as my principal, whose children over 7 years of age are entrusted to me, will in no way advise me therein or consent thereto. When your Reverences, therefore, hesitate to extend to me a definite and simple call, I do not see how I can be sure of a divine hint and I can therefore not do otherwise than abide by the resolution which Mr. R. Brandt has recently written in the P. S., leaving your Reverences, however, free to make such further resolution in this matter as you may consider necessary, to which I, who in all matters submit to God's will, will agree.* Meanwhile I acknowledge with due thanks the special kindness which your Reverences have shown toward me and furthermore wish that from the 66 Original in German. * In connection with which Mr. Sybrand will inform you that another student, named Tiebe, whom he tried to engage before me, has decided to undertake the trip to Amsterdam. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 119 fullness of God's goodness everything that is good for soul and body may come to you jointly and severally, and remain, Very Reverend, Devout and Highly Learned, as well as Noble, Honorable and Very Distinguished and especially highly Esteemed Gentlemen and much appreciated Patrons, ^ Reverences > obedient and f aithfu J servant} . _ * Wilhelm Christopher Berckenmeyer Hamburg, July 17, 1724. [Addressed:] The Very Reverend, Devout and Highly Learned, as well as the Noble, Honorable, Very Distinguished Gentlemen, the Pastors, Elders and Deacons of the Evangelical Lutheran Consistory at Amsterdam, my especially Highly Esteemed and much appreciated Patrons, in Amsterdam. [Endorsed:] Hamburg, July 17, 1724. From Wilhelm Christopher Berk- enmeyer. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Extraordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 26th of July, 1724. A letter was read from Hamburg, dated July 17, Anno 1724, signed by candidate Wilhelm Christopher Berkenmeyer, stating that he cannot come over until he has received a call from us. Resolved not to reply to that letter. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 322. o o o LETTER from Wilhelm C. Berckenmeyer to Johannes Sybrand. 67 September 23, 1724 Monsieur Johann Sybrant: I am not satisfied with Mons. Sybrand's conduct and letter of September 12th. I promised him that if he could make such propositions from me to the Consistory that they would regard his motive as divinely inspired and offered to call me, I would come, but I have not authorized him to force them in any way in order to attain his object, for a call obtained only by trickery or force I shall never desire. I promised him that I would be satisfied with his "bond" (as he calls it), as to Hackensak and Albany, but I never gave him permission to lay that as an argument before the Consistory; that, indeed, would be like saying, "I shall serve for salt and bread; only, give me a job." If the very laudable Consistory distrust him of deceiving them with untruths, will it be interpreted as prudence on my part if I trust him, 67 Original in German. 120 The New York Public Library such a stranger? Surely, as he must have received letters from New York, considering that since then so many ships from New York have arrived at Amsterdam and in England, the fact that, so far as I know, not the least declaration or confirmation of all that he says, much less as to the expectation regarding Albany, has been sent to him, makes him not a little suspicious, where the gentlemen in Holland are not better informed as to the circum- stances in New York. It is agreeable to me to confirm his assurance by a letter to the very laudable Consistory. I did, indeed, write to the Consistory that I would accept their call which they extended to me in accordance with their power of attorney, when it came to me; another call than that which agrees with their power of attorney, they cannot give, unless further infor- mation were received. Should I now write that I shall be satisfied if they send me a call? Mons. Sybrant does not quite understand this and the Reverend Ministerium does not consider such a way godly or lawful either. I had already drafted another letter, but as I just received the letter from Mons. Sybrant to Mr. Peter Eden, I offer thereon the following resolution: Provided, 1) I can be certain before God that the laudable Consistory has already now resolved to call me; 2) the laudable Consistory expresses that it pretends, or will not send the call; 3 ) that this assurance has been no reason why they should give up any others and prefer me, I will immediately present myself with a letter before the Consistory. Meanwhile, Mons. Sybrant will please also extend my kind greetings to the worthy gentlemen and thank them for their kind efforts. On my part I wish them, and also Mons. Sybrant, all that is good for soul and body and remain, Monsieur Johann Sybrant, Your servant, e^nest wishes WlLHELM ChrISTOPH. BeRCKEN MEYER signature made with my own hand confirms [Addressed:] Monsieur Johannes Sybrant at Amsterdam. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 4th of October, 1724. After reading and approval of the minutes kept on the 20th of September last, there appeared Johannes Sybrants, delegate from New York, showing The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 121 a letter from Candidate Wilhelm Christopher Berckenmeyer, privately written from Hamburg, on the 23d of September, to the said Sybrants. Resolved to send to the aforenamed Berkenmeyer, on the conditions men- tioned in that letter, a call, signed by the secretary and with the church seal affixed thereto, and to request him to come over to be examined and ordained. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 325. * * o LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to Wilhelm C. Berckenmeyer, in- closing a call to become pastor of the church at New York. October 6, 1724 Mr. Berkenmeyer: Johannes Sybrants having communicated to us your letter written to him from Hamburg on the 23d of September, we have resolved on the conditions mentioned in that letter to send to you the inclosed call, with the request that you be pleased to come here to be examined and ordained. Meanwhile we remain, after hearty greetings, Your affectionate friends, By order of this Consistory, Amsterdam, October 6, 1724. [Not Signed] To Mr. Wilhelm Christophorus Berckenmeyer, S. Theologi[a]e Candidatus Copy of the Call In the name of the Holy Trinity. Amen. Be it known and patent to every one whom it may concern that we, pastors and present deputed elders and leaders of the Christian congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession in Amsterdam, as attorneys of our congregation in the city of New York, situated in North America, by virtue of their power of attorney given to us on December 11/22, 1723, have called and engaged, as in our aforesaid capacity we do call and engage hereby, as pastor and spiritual leader of our church at New York aforesaid, the Reverend Mr. Wilhelm Christophorus Berckenmeyer, Sacrae Theologiae Candidatus at Hamburg, in such a way that it becomes his duty to serve our aforesaid congregation at New York and, as long as he lives or remains with them, to apply himself diligently to expounding to them from the pulpit the pure doctrine of God's Word, which is founded on the Canonical books of the Holy Scripture and contained in the three chief symbols, the Apostle, the Nicene and the Athanasian, the Augsburg Confession and its Apologia, 122 The New York Public Library J t and the Smalcald Articles; by the Lutheran Catechism and Formula Con- cordiae faithfully to warn his hearers against all false doctrine; to administer the holy Sacraments as instituted by Christ and according to the custom in that church; also to visit the sick, to celebrate the Lord's Supper and properly to perform all necessary extra services; by a decent and godly conduct to set an example to the faithful, properly to submit himself to all church ordinances that have been or may be adopted, to persevere in teaching, consoling and admonishing, and in all other ways to prove himself a faithful guardian of the Church of God and worthy servant of the Arch-shepherd Jesus Christ. In return for this the above named Mr. Wilhelm Christophorus Bercken- meyer shall each year, at four distinct terms, be tendered and paid by the leaders of the New York congregation, as salary, twenty-five pounds, New York money, amounting to two hundred guilders, Holland money. Further- more, as soon as he shall have set foot on land at New York and have shown his call and letters of appointment to the above named leaders, he shall be paid by them there, for the period he has been in their service from his confirmation until his arrival in New York, the sum of twelve pounds, ten shillings, likewise New York money, making one hundred guilders, Holland money. In addition, free passage for himself and the expenses of transportation of his effects to New York, both at Amsterdam and in England, and the freight thereof, shall be provided and paid for by their fellow-brother, Johannes Sybrands, without the aforesaid Mr. Berckenmeyer having to spend anything therefor. Finally, we bend the knee and turn our hearts to the Triune God, calling upon Him in the name of His beloved and only born Son, our Mediator and Lord Jesus Christ, that He may daily further endow this newly called pastor with His gifts, grant that his planting may flourish and open the door to the propagation of the Gospel, in order that the glory of His holy name and His holy word may be spread, and that among that congregation there may be found many who with sincere hearts will make use of the means of salv ation and by the power of the Holy Ghost truly acknowledge Him, the only true God, do true penance, sincerely believe in Jesus Christ, lead a holy life, not refuse to bear the cross of Christ the Lord after Him, to persevere to the end and gain eternal salvation. Done in Amsterdam, the 6th of October 1724. Which our present instrument we have caused not only to be signed by our Secretary, but also to be confirmed by our usual church seal. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, pages 340-343. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 123 LETTER from Rev. Wilhelm Christophorus Rerckenmeyer to the Amster- dam Consistory. 68 October 20, 1724 Very Reverend, Devout and Highly Learned, as well as Noble, Honorable and Very Distinguished Gentlemen, specially honored and highly esteemed Patrons: Your Reverences and Honors have obliged and very greatly favored me by having through Mr. Joh. Sybrands, the delegate of the congregation at New York, handed to me a call to the pastorate there, together with a special letter to betake myself to Amsterdam for examination and ordination. This has been the more agreeable to me as I become the more convinced thereby that it is God's holy will that I take upon myself this tremendum onus and iter plane stupendum. I should be ready this very moment to prepare myself for the journey if the season of the year and especially my health permitted it, ( which un- fortunately is not the case ) , since I am so exhausted from a hot fever, which during the night of the 4th of October brought me so near death that they were about to close my eyes, that I can not yet go about and stand in my room as I please. This is the more disagreeable to me as I am desirous to show your laudable Consistory my most respectful and obedient veneration, as my conscience and gratitude tell me it is my lawful duty to do, just as I now honor and accept, with an obedient heart toward God and with the most grateful feelings of obligation toward you, Reverend and Honored Gentlemen, the call sent to me by your laudable Consistory, so that all remains for me to do is to beg for a little explanation on certain points at my arrival, God grant, in sound health. 1 therefore promise beforehand to render under divine power the faithful service that is recommended to me and to hasten my arrival under divine protection. I further pray God that in His mercy He may grant the certain fulfilment of the wish with which your Reverences and Honors are pleased to seal my call. Further, I hope that in His goodness He will for Christ's sake always hear me when I shall humbly and heartily implore Him to fortify His king- dom in the Amsterdam Zion and to grant in abundance all sorts of divine blessings to you and your successors. As long as I live I shall not tire of showing myself, as I am, Very Reverend, Devout and Highly Learned, Noble, Honored and Highly Distinguished and especially Esteemed Gentlemen and affectionate Patrons, Your Reverences' most obedient and faithful servant, Hamburg, October 20, 1724. Wilhelm Christophorus Rerckenemeyeb ... . . , . _ Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. °° Original in German. 124 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the first of Novem- ber, 1724. After reading and approval of the minutes of the ordinary and extraordinary sessions held on the 18th and 21st of October, there was read a letter from the candidate, Wilhelm Christophel Berkenmeyer, from Hamburg, signed the 20th of October, notifying us that he accepts the call to New York on the terms of the call sent to him, and that as soon as his health will permit him to do so, he will come over to be examined and ordained. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 338. o o o BOND of the Lutheran congregation at Albany to pay 200 guilders a year toward the salary of a pastor to be sent to them by the Amsterdam Con- sistory. March 15, 1725 We, the undersigned [members of the] Lutheran congregation of Albany, hereby bind ourselves to pay the other remaining twenty [-five] 69 pounds, current money of New York, or 200 guilders Holland money, the same as our fellow-brethren in New York have done, as your Reverences well know, for a pastor whom the Consistory shall see fit to send to us. In witness whereof we hereunto set our hands and seal. Jan van Hoesen This is the mark JHB of Jacob Haellik [Haelenbeck] Albert van Loon Jan van Loon Arent van Sack This is the mark + of Gerret van Housen Klas van Loon Matthijs van Loon Witnesses: Johannis Lagransie [Lagrange] Johannes La Grange Junior J Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 69 See letter of the New York Church to the Consistory, dated March 27, 1725. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 125 LETTER from Albert and Jan van Loon, members of the Consistory at Albany, to Messrs. Laesbye and Nieugaard, of the Amsterdam Consistory. March 15, 1725 Messrs. Laesbye and Nieugaard. Very Worthy Friends and Fellow Brethren: We received your letter, but have heretofore had no time to reply to the same. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the trouble you have taken. May the Lord of Lords reward you for the faithful and loving service which you have done your poor fellow-brethren here. The Lord strengthen you and fill your hearts with love for your poor fellow-brethren here, in order that you may not weary of providing us with a pastor, such as you, Brethren, think suitable; whether he be a Dutchman or a German, or what- ever he may be, as long as he knows some Dutch and intends to learn, he is good, if he preaches the true Lutheran doctrine. May God the Father guide you. Send us out of your fatherly heart for us, your poor fellow-brethren, a pastor and preacher who may steer the sheep straight and who knows how to refute the opponents among whom we live, for we are few or in- significant here, compared with the Calvinists. The cause of that is this. When Governor Stuyvesant ruled here, we were not allowed to have any pastor or the liberty of hearing one; the pastor left and the congregation scattered. When they held a meeting for prayer and were found, they had to give a certain sum of money; when they thought they were hidden in the woods, there was always one who could find them, namely, Klaes van Elslant, so that it grieved them and they wished that God would punish him, as did happen to him, for he went about stooping, as he had done in creeping up on them, until his death. Thus it went here as our fathers have told. The old people died and some of the younger ones followed the great mass, so that the situation here at Albany is bad. Furthermore, owing to our feeble- ness, we have no fixed meeting place. May the Lord of Lords stir the hearts of all of you to give generously toward the erection thereof. May the Lord reward you all. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of my brethren, ye have done it unto me," saith the Lord. We shall remember the good you have done in addressing the Lord and shall not forget what is to follow. The Lord our God grant that all this may go well. We now com- mend your Reverences and all of us to the protection of the Most High and Your poor fellow-brethren and servants, Allebert van Loon Jan van Loon [Addressed:] To Messrs. Laasbye & Nieugaard in Amsterdam. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 126 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Consistory at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. March 27, 1725 To the Reverend Consistory of the Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam: After friendly greetings in the Lord, we hope that your Reverences will not take it amiss of us that we have not replied sooner to your Reverences' letter. The reason is that we have lost much time in trying to come to an agreement with the Hackensackers, but they had so many pretensions that it was impossible to agree with them. We therefore turned to the Albanians to see whether we could agree with them. But we could get no answer from them owing to the unseasonable time of the year, for only one post comes down during the entire winter and at that time they were not yet ready to reply to us, so that we were compelled to wait. As soon as the ice broke up a little, Johannes Lagrange sailed up the river and the very night after his arrival on the preceding evening the river closed again, so that it took five weeks before he could come down again. Therefore, we had much trouble and lost much time before we could get ready. They finally pledged them- selves for the other twenty-five pounds, New York money, but on conditions which will be somewhat onerous to us; however, we were forced to grant them, as otherwise they would not pledge themselves for the aforesaid sum. We further understand from your Reverences that there is no Dutchman available. We shall be quite satisfied with a German, or a pastor of any other nationality, if he can only speak a little Dutch, as long as your Rever- ences find him fit or capable to hold that office. Further, we are greatly obliged to your Reverences and to all other fellow-brethren for all the kind- ness you have shown to us and to our beloved brother Johannes Sybrant. We are not able to repay your Reverences for all the benefactions which you have conferred on us. We thank your Reverences heartily for them and hope that the good Lord will reward your Reverences for them, for your Reverences well know that our Redeemer said: "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of my brethren, ye have done it unto me." We pray that the good Lord may long preserve your Reverences in health and prosper you in all your undertakings. We commend your Reverences and all of us to the protection of the Most High and remain your Reverences' poor fellow- brethren and servants, Johannis Lagransie [Lagrange J Charel Beckmen W. Shleydorn Anthony Lispenard Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 127 LETTER from the Consistory and leaders of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. April 27, 1725 Very Reverend, much honored and beloved Brethren in Christ: Since an application for a new pastor in these parts has already been made to you, for which trouble taken by you we are deeply grateful to your Rever- ences, and you have been pleased to reply that you have not been able to find a capable person who on that basis and for such a small salary was willing to come hither and, in fact, until now no one has come either, this only serves to let you know for your further instruction and information that we, the undersigned consistory and congregation of the Augsburg Confession at New York intend to summon and call here Magister Joh s . Bernhard van Deuren, born at Koningsbergen [Konigsberg], who has been stationed here higher up in the country, at a place called Schoggeri [Schoharie], a pious and capable man, not only graduated, but orthodox and sound in doctrine and practice, whom, with the general consent and approval of the congregation, we have chosen as our pastor and preacher. However, as Mr. Joh s . La Granse, being headstrong and ambitious to rule the consistory alone, with the help of five others who were mostly under obligation to him, wanted to force through the plan of calling a pastor from Holland and thereupon, solely out of spite against the person called by us, without being able to give the least ground or semblance of reason for it, wrote a letter to your Rever- ences, we hereby humbly pray your Reverences to be cautious and deliberate in this matter and not to hasten the call, as the person or pastor who might accept it has no promise of payment, much less subscription for that purpose, from us and would have to depend solely on the grace of Mr. Joh s . La Granse and the five other gentlemen to draw his salary from them alone. Therefore, we once more beseech your Reverences to be slow and deliberate in the matter. This, very dear Brethren in Christ, is not done to cause any secession, much less schism, but we are compelled thereto from motives of conscience, for shall through the obstinacy of one man the entire congregation be without a pastor and wither away as it were? Furthermore, the power and size of the congregation is so small that it is impossible for them to bear heavy expenses. Therefore, submitting ourselves in this matter to your Reverences' mature wisdom and prudence, we doubt not but you will satisfy our just desire. Looking forward with longing to a few lines in reply, we commend 128 The New York Public Library you, after respectful greetings, to the protection of the Most High and wish you all conceivable blessings as to soul and body. We respectfully remain, Highly Learned and Wise Gentlemen, Your most humble and much obliged servants and brothers in Christ. Andries van Boscerck PlETER VAN BOSCERK JOHANN LUCHART ScHUt[z] Johan Jacor Bos ( ? ) Micel Peper johannis eggerrecht Johan Cristian Aelrrecht johannis berthe Johan Jacor Luttrot Anders Zimmerman Vredrick Boolt Godvrti> Heyns Abraham Beem Daniel Sigeler Melgert Diedrigh Ynslegel Johan Henry Schutze johannis bornit Johan Cristegan Miller Johan Nicolaus Samler ( ? ) John Davit Koning Andris van Boskerck, Yong. Uldrig Simmedinger P. S. Be pleased to know that our worthy brother and faithful leader and elder of this congregation, Pieter van Woglen, has died. New York in America 27 April 1725 [Addressed:] To the Reverend and Very Discreet Consistory of the Augs- burg Confession at Amsterdam. Amst Luth ch Arch [PortfoUo Ameri ca.] o o o LETTEB from Rev. Wilhelm C. Berckenmeyer to the Amsterdam Consis- tory. 70 May 1, 1725 Very Reverend, to God attentive and Highly Learned, as well as Honorable and Very Distinguished Gentlemen, Very kind Patrons. Very Reverend and Honorable Patrons : With due reverence I hereby wish to inform you that we are now ready to begin our journey to Amsterdam. I therefore hope that your Reverences will be disposed to adhere to your kind decision to ordain me as a favor to the congregation. Nothing will give me greater pleasure than to have the honor to find you, Reverend and Hon- ored Patrons, in health and all wished-for prosperity. Two days ago, it is true, Mr. Syrand fell ill of what here is called scarlatina [Scherlaken ], but the physician has good hopes that in a few days, with God's help, he will be restored to health. We shall then make it our business to set out on our 70 Original in German. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 129 journey by the first freighter that leaves. The All Highest preserve you, Rev- erend and Honorable Patrons, in all joy according to your hearts' desire, and may He grant me the pleasure of being able to show myself, Very Reverend, to God attentive and Highly Learned, and also Honorable and Very Distinguished Gentlemen, Very kind Patrons, Your Reverences' devoted and much obliged servant, , ,„ K W. C. Berckenmeyer Hamburg, May 1, 1725 To be delivered to: The Very Reverend, to God attentive and Highly Learned Pastors, and the Honorable and Very Distinguished Gentlemen, the Elders and Deacons of the Evangelical Lutheran Consistory in Amsterdam, my especially kind Patrons. In Amsterdam [Endorsed:] T: Mag: Wilhelm Christophel Berkenmeyer, Hamburg, May 1, 1725. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Extraordinary Consistory meeting held on Tuesday, the 22d of May, 1725 After prayer, Ds. Michels, president pro tern., announced that this extraor- dinary meeting was called on account of Candidate Guilelmus Christophorus Berkenmeyer, called as pastor for our congregation at New York, who, having come upstairs, together with Hendrik Sybrants, delegate from New York, requested that after previous examination he might the sooner the better be ordained here. Whereupon it was resolved to examine him next Thursday morning, at ten o'clock, and in case of satisfactory response, to perform the ordination on Friday evening in our New Church, after the conclusion of divine service. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol, No. 6, page 353. EXAMINATION of Rev. Wilhelm Christophor Berckenmeyer Minutes kept of the examination of Candidate Guilelmus Christophorus Berkenmeyer, from the land of Lunenburg, on Thursday, the 24th of May, 1725. After prayer there came upstairs the above named candidate, together with Johannes Sybrants, delegate from New York, the candidate handing 130 The New York Public Library in his testimonials, 71 namely, from the Altdorf Academy, dated November 30, 1712, and from Hamburg, signed by Petrus Theodorus Seelman, senior pastor, in the name of the ministerium there, the 7th of October, 1722; also [one] from Pastor Johan Gotfried Misler, [dated] October 6, 1722, and [one] from Pastor Johan Fredrick Winkler, [dated] October 5, 1722. All of which having been read and found to be valid, the examination took place, whereupon Ds. Michels, president pro tern., in the absence of the candidate and the delegate, asked the question whether the members of this meeting present had taken such satisfaction in his answers that they could ordain him. They unanimously voted Yes and it was decided to ordain him tomorrow evening in our New Church as a service of love for the con- gregation of New York, and to grant him a testimonial thereof, signed by our secretary and bearing our church seal, reading as follows : Friday, the 25th of May Anno 1725 Extract from the minutes kept at the Consistory meeting of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam. Resolved to note pro memoria that Ds. Guilelmus Christophorus Berken- meyer, from the land of Lunenburg, Sacrae Theologiae Candidatus, after previous examination held by our Reverend Ministerium, in which he re- sponded to their satisfaction, was here in our New Church, as a service of love for our congregation at New York ordained to the highly reverend office of pastor and solemnly confirmed therein by the laying on of hands. Atnst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 354. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 6th of June, 1725 After reading and approval of the minutes of the ordinary as well as extraordinary meetings held on the 16th, 22d and 24 of May and the 4th of June, there appeared Ds. Guilelmus Christophorus Berckenmeyer, thank- ing this assembly for his ordination and further courtesies shown to him, and recommending himself further to their favor. Whereupon, in his absence, it was decided to give a letter for the New York congregation to Hendrik Sybrantsz., their delegate, to take with him, stating that in pursuance of 71 Photostats of these were not in the collection received from Amsterdam. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 131 their power of attorney, delivered to us by the aforesaid delegate on the first of March Anno 1724, we have, after much trouble and effort secured the above named Ds. Berkenmeyer, who, after previous examination, has been ordained by us as a service of love and with whom we congratulate them, not doubting but they will be completely satisfied with him and approve what we have done in regard to this matter. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 356. o o o LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutheran Consistory at New York. June 12, 1725 Especial [Friends], etc. In pursuance of your power of attorney, delivered to us by your delegate, Hendrik Sybrants, on the first of March, 1724, we have done our best to find a suitable candidate for you and finally secured the person of Guilelmus Christophorus Berckenmeyer, who, after previous examination, has been ordained by our Reverend Ministerium as a service of love for your con- gregation. We congratulate you with him and doubt not but you will be completely satisfied with him and approve our actions in the matter. Where- with, after hearty greetings, we remain, Your affectionate friends, The Reverend Consistory [Not signed] at New York Amsterdam, June 12, Anno 1725. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, page 357. o o o MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory. July 4, 1725 There was read a writing from Albany, signed the 15th of March, Anno 1725, by eight persons, in the presence of two witnesses, whereby they bind themselves, like those of New York have done, to pay yearly twenty [-five?] pounds current money, or two hundred guilders, Holland money, to a pastor whom this Consistory shall see fit to send to them. Also, a letter from New York, signed the 27th of March, 1725, by four persons, in which they excuse themselves for not having written sooner. The reason is that they have lost much time in trying to agree with the 132 The New York Public Library Hackensackers, but which they have been unable to do. They further notify us that they have made an agreement with those of Albany. There was also read a letter from New York, dated April 27, 1725, signed by 22 persons, calling themselves the consistory and congregation of New York, notifying us that with the general consent and approval of that con- gregation they have chosen as their pastor Johan Bernhard van Deuren, born at Coningsbergen [Konigsberg], who was stationed at a place called Schoggerie [Schoharie], a pious and capable man, orthodox and sound in doctrine and practice. They further request us not to hasten the calling of a pastor for that congregation and to proceed cautiously in the matter, as the person who might accept the call has no promise of payment, much less any subscription for it, from the congregation, but would have to depend on the good will of Mons. r Johan La Grange and three others to draw his salary from the four of them. Whereupon it was resolved to send to Ds. Berkenmeyer a copy of that letter and of the bond of those of Albany, under cover of Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard, and to write to the consistory of New York that we received such letter with the utmost astonishment, as the writers thereof cannot be ignorant of the fact that more than a year and a half ago, to wit, on December 11/22, Anno 1723, a power of attorney was signed by five persons in the name of the consistory of New York, whereby we were requested and em- powered to call and ordain a suitable candidate for that congregation. Also, that thereupon, with much effort, we secured Candidate Guilelmus Christo- phorus Berkenmeyer, whom we have ordained for that congregation and who has already departed from here, so that their request contained in that letter comes too late. We admonish them in a Christian-brotherly way and most strongly recommend to them not to create a schism in their church, but to acknowledge the above named Ds. Berckenmeyer as their lawfully chosen pastor, to approve our call, and to treat him with love and affection. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, pages 358, 359. • o o LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York. July 10, 1725 Especial, etc. With the utmost astonishment we received on the 4th instant a letter from New York, dated April 27th of this year, signed by 22 persons, calling them- The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 133 selves the consistory and congregation of New York, whereby they notified us that they had called one Ds. Johan Bernhard van Deuren as pastor and further requested us not to hasten the call here. We reply to this that the writers cannot be unaware of the power of attorney signed on December 11/22, Anno 1723, by five persons in the name of the consistory of New York and handed to us by one Johannes Sybrants, whereby we are requested to call a pastor for your congregation, with promise that upon his arrival there he shall be acknowledged as their lawful pastor and be received with all respect, love, esteem and affection. Now, if this power of attorney was given against their will, they should have noti- fied us thereof sooner and not have waited a year and a half before doing so. We have, pursuant to this power of attorney, done our best to find a capable candidate for your congregation and have procured the Reverend Mr. Berk- enmeyer, who was examined by our Reverend Ministerium and ordained for your congregation, according to our certificate and call, which his Rev- erence, who has already left with Johannes Sybrants, has with him. Further- more, we have also received a bond from those of Albany, signed by eight persons, to pay a pastor, whom we shall see fit to send, two hundred guilders, Holland money, a year, like those of New York have done, so that the writers come too late with their request. Furthermore, our Elders, for the assistance of your congregation, have given fl[orin] 250, as Mons. r Sybrants will com- municate to you. Therefore, we admonish you and all of you jointly, and most strongly recommend to you not to create any schism in your church ( as it is stated in the said letter it is not their intention to do ) , but to acknowl- edge him as your lawfully chosen pastor, to approve the call extended by us, and to treat him with all love and kindness, in order that our trouble and assistance may not have been in vain and that he, being a capable candidate, may edify and build up your congregation in peace and harmony and lead many people to salvation. In expectation whereof, after wishing you the peace of the Lord, we remain, Your affectionate friends and fellow-br ether en in Christ. By order of this Consistory, [Not signed] [Addressed: ] The Rev. Consistory at New York Amsterdam, July 10, Anno 1725. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, pages 358, 359. 134 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Lutheran Consistory at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. September 20, 1725 Very Reverend, Highly Learned and Very Wise Gentlemen, Very Affec- tionate Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ: After God had helped to bring our Dom. Wilh. Christ. Berckenmeyer and our fellow-brother Joh. Sybrand safely over to us, we received through them two letters from your Reverences, the first dated June 12th, and the other dated July 10th. Both letters were openly read in our meeting held on Sep- tember 14/25th. From the first we saw with joy that your Reverences have had the kindness to provide us with a pastor and, after previous examination, also to ordain him. We therefore thank God, who has shown us the mercy to second your Reverences' efforts as desired. We also gratefully and from the heart acknowledge the kindness shown to us and to him. What we are not able to repay, God, who is omnipotent, will do. As to the other letter, we cannot deny that such a letter as your Reverences mention was sent. But inasmuch as God has granted us a pastor with whom we are satisfied, there has been found no one among us who is not inclined to acknowledge him according to the promise made in the power of attorney from our Consistory. The bond of those of Albany, as we doubt not, holds good also, so that, thank God, our congregation at New York lives in peace and harmony. God has helped us as to the spirit. We also praise the gen- erosity which the Reverend Consistory have shown toward us. As long as we live we are in duty bound and willing to pray God that He may graciously bestow upon your Reverences all kinds of spiritual blessings and heavenly gifts, and grant to every one whatever may be pleasing to him. Furthermore, we place our trust in your Reverences that you will not abandon us in our misery. Wherewith we commend ourselves to your Reverences' favor and after hearty greetings remain, Your Reverences' humble servants and fellow-brethren in Christ, Wilh. Christoph. Berckenmeyer, Pastor Andries van Boescerck pleter van boscerck johannis lagransie Charel Beckman New York, September 20, 1725. W " ^ chle ydorn [Addressed:] To the Very Reverend Consistory of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam [Endorsed: ] New York, Sept. 20, 1725. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 135 LETTER from the Lutheran Consistory at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. October 18, 1725 Very Reverend, Very Wise Gentlemen, much Esteemed and Affectionate Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ: We are as much compelled to trouble your Reverences with this letter as we hope your Reverences will be inclined to assist us in our request. It concerns the difference which has arisen between us and our fellow-brother Johannes Sybrand about the collection money which he has put into the hands of Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard, in his name. We examined the account which he showed us of the expenses of his voyage and the coming over of Dom. Berckenmeyer, which, to keep us in the dark, he had made up in a confused way. When we found that we could not pass it without burdening our consciences, we presented him with a counter bill. But, in- stead of accepting that, he claims, in addition to the balance, payment for his trouble. Against this claim we have to offer the following arguments. First, he voluntarily offered to find a Domine, only on condition that we should give him to take with him a petition to take up a collection. Second, that he knew beforehand that we were not able to bear the Domine's ex- penses, much less to give him any compensation. Third, that he can neither show, nor has received, any assurance by word of mouth or in writing that this was promised to him. On the contrary, when he mentioned it after the petition was written, we said that it were better to save the cost of the petition, if he did not want to go. Fourth, he, Joh. Sybrands, cannot deny that he promised us to pay yearly five pounds to the Domine, and also his own passage; so far we were from making any promises to him to allow him something. Fifth, we could claim, on account of his promise, that he must bear the expenses of his voyage and the Domine's passage himself and not charge for them. But we are willing to forget all this as long as God has released him from his promises through the generosity of good people. Fin- ally, it is clearly to be seen that he has insured himself against that by the account and drawn it up in such a way that he seems to have sailed, as he has often sailed, for his own profit, whereas our congregation has benefited little by all the kindness that has been shown to us, aside from the fact that the congregation has not been burdened with the expense of paying for the passage of our Domine, which, in fact, was so impossible that we should forever have had to remain without a pastor, if it had not turned out this way. If now, John. Sybr[and] took possession of the balance, what would remain for our church to rejoice over? 136 The New York Public Library Whereas, Very Reverend Gentlemen, we now know nothing better to do than to invoke your decision, the more so as he himself formerly declared, but now will answer neither yes nor no, that he will be satisfied whether your Reverences grant him any allowance or not, we have taken the liberty to send over a copy of his account, from which his deceit and shrewdness to keep us in the dark are clearly to be seen, together with a copy of our counter account, from which your Reverences may judge whether we have allowed him too much or too little, and whether his claims against us are more just than our arguments against them. Furthermore, it is our humble request that your Reverences will please pronounce yourselves in the matter and make known your decision to Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard, in order that we may not be prevented by said gentlemen from managing our money as we see fit, which money, as is well known, was given to our poor church, and not to Joh. Sybrands. Not doubting of a good success and meanwhile reserving the privilege of giving your Reverences further information about our wretched con- dition, and being sure that your Reverences will further lend us your assist- ance, for the glory of God Almighty and our Lord Jesus Christ, we commend your Reverences to the protection of God, hoping that He may shower upon your Reverences and your families all that is good, and remain, Very Reverend, Very Wise Gentlemen, much Esteemed Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ, Your Reverences' humble and obliged [servants], the Consistory of the Protestant Lutheran Church at New York, on Mahanates, cujus nomine subscripsit. Wilhelm Christoph. Berckenmeyer, V. D. M., By [order of] the meeting of the a P ud N eo-Eboracensis Lutheranus Consistory of this Lutheran church at New York. October 18, 1725 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o REPORT of Rev. W. C. Berkenmeyer to the Amsterdam Consistory. 72 Oct.21/Nov. 1, 1725 73 Right Reverend, most learned, as also Most Noble and distinguished Gentle- men, particularly our Most Kind and esteemed Patrons! I regard it as my duty, not only to express my thanks in particular to you, Right Reverend, Most Noble and most learned Patrons, for the favors which 72 The original in German. Translation in Sachse, Julius F., Justus Falckner, mystic and scholar, Phila., 1903, p. 118-131. 73 See letter of the Consistory to the New York City congregation, dated June 24, 1726, below, acknowledging receipt of this report. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 137 you extended to me during my sojourn in Amsterdam and after my departure, in the positive assurance that God will extend his blessing to each and all of you, but also to advise you of what passes here, and give you an accurate account how I found the condition of this congregation upon my arrival. The contentions within the congregation and the letter resulting therefrom were caused by the following conditions : There is a member of our congregation in the city one Joh. Mich. Schutz, a tailor, who gave his daughter unto a man who left the needle and assumed the pastoral office, over which there had been many a dispute even during the lifetime of B[rother] Just. Falkener, who as he felt his end approaching admonished the wardens and vestrymen to seek their refuge with the Right Worshipful Consistory at Amsterdam. The only obstacle in their way, however, was the heavy expense, which it was impossible for them to assume. In this dilemma Joh. Sybrand, who was a seafaring man, volunteered, as he then stood prepared to go to England, to assume the personal expenses of the Domine, and to go over to Holland to procure a Domine from thence, provided that they would supply him with a collection-book. 74 Now as they imagined that they were not risking nor were responsible for more than the charges on the Domine's baggage, the majority, together with the most respectable members, accepted the offer with great pleasure. However, the before-mentioned Schutz would not consent to anything, as he would gladly have seen a different course taken in regard to his son- in-law, who was then at Schohari. Albeit he did not permit himself to say or do anything until an answer was received from your Right Worshipful Consistory, stating that, without any previous consent or authority of the congregations concerned, one would hardly consent to come over; further- more that nearly all here had lost all courage. These facts Schutz made use of, and not only induced one of the Kerk- meister, Andries Van Buskerken (who was one of the signers of the call procuratum to Amsterdam ) together with the latter 's brother and son, who live in the country, to sign the contradictory missive, but also induced some from the city, like Joh. Jac. Bos and Mich. Peper, to do the same. Now if we except Joh. Mich. Schutz as the author and his son J. H. Schutz, all the remaining signers to the missive are either persons who have already severed themselves from our holy religion, as Godfried Heyns and Joh. Dav. Koning, or such as only join in our communion as strangers, like Friderich Boolt and Uldrig Zimmerdinger; or such as are scattered about the country 74 Collecten-briefe; meaning, letters authorizing him to take up a collection. 138 The New York Public Library far and near, like Joh. Jac. Luttrot, Joh. C. Miller, and A. Beem, who has since returned to Newburg. 75 Others are not even known here by name. Further, of all the rest not a single one of them (excepting the three [Van] Boskerens and Joh. M. Schiitz, who formerly served as a deacon, and once upon a time, about the year 1713, took upon himself to collect money in Amsterdam, whereof he delivered fifteen pounds to the church after a lapse of three years ) , ever gave a single penny toward the church during their whole lifetime. Yea, it even came to pass, after a brother of the Van Boskerkens, who hailed from Hackensack, had extended a call thence to this Van Deuren and permitted him occasionally to preach in their dwelling houses, that he preached once in our church, but only with the consent, forcibly obtained, from both the p. t. deacons, Lagrangie and Bekmann. Upon the next occasion, however, these officers took possession of the pulpit (priester Stuhl) and thus barred the way to the pulpit. They [the Van Deuren faction] even threatened to commit murder and force our houses and church, if these were not opened unto them, and to take possession of the strong box and the money of the Church. Conse- quently the statement, as made in their missive, that Joh. Van Deuren was called unanimously and by general consent, is fictitious. The rest of the congregation, rather than to acquiesce, in case the Right Reverend Consistory at Amsterdam would not favor them, would have resolved to extend a call to the brother of the late Falkener, although his own brother would not counsel them to do this before they took up with Van Duren. And as to the ungodly missive, they knew nothing at all of it, until they were informed by a good friend who was to send the letter of the Consistory, that Schiitz urged him not to send the missive, yes, elsewhere was heard to say that he regretted that the letter had fallen into such loyal hands. Otherwise the missive would have been his, even if it had cost him fifty pounds. The whole congregation accordingly consists of from ten to twelve house- holds, which either upon the male or female side are of the reformed faith. Of the remaining number who reside in the town, many for several years have failed to adhere to our church, as they either for very trifling reasons objected to the preacher or were angered at the bad conditions of our church, and became of a different mind. And of all these, thus far but a single house- hold hath returned. 75 The transcript has Hamburg, but the photostat seems to have Numberg. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 139 Now as I arrived here, both friends and enemies — if I may so call them — became perplexed; the former, because they were greatly weakened by the defection of the van Boskerkens, who were the wealthiest among the con- gregation; the latter, because they realized that their scheme had virtually turned out like Architophle's counsel. In the meantime it was resolved to say nothing about that missive, if the opposite party made no demand for it. In fact no one here demanded either to see or read the letter. The Church Council thereupon convened a meeting, together with all the above-named members of our congregation, whereat I had no sooner pre- sented my letters than And. van Buskerken arose and extended his hand to me. In this he was followed by all present, Joh. Mich. Schiitze being the last one. The answering of the letters from the Right Rev. Consistory was consigned to me, and it was afterwards resolved to send the answers in their present form. If you, Right Reverend and Most Noble Patrons, will permit, I will now add some information about the condition of my Congregation. As before stated in numbers our Congregation is but few, and several among them live over two German miles from the town. The Church has no income ex- cept that of the collection bag with the bell (Kling[el] Beutel). The monies donated by the brethren at St. Thomas over fifteen years ago were, as I learn, put out at interest, which goes toward the pastor's salary, and if this is not sufficient, the deficiency is collected and supplied ostiatim [collected from door to door]. Further there are no accidentia, such as marriages or funeral sermons, as these hardly occur once in many years. The church, we fear, will not only be demolished by the first heavy storm, but looks more like a grain barn than a house of God : it has only two windows, one near the pulpit and the other directly opposite. As the church is not paved, but merely floored with loose boards — some long, others short — one cannot pass through it without stumbling. The preparations for divine worship are so bad, that I doubt whether greater confusion exists in any heathen temple. The people are not capable of singing a hymn properly, and upon several occasions they have stuck in the middle of a hymn, and I have had to go thus to the altar or ascend the pulpit, although I permit the precentor to sing whatever he likes, and what they have been accustomed to sing. And now if the seventy-three-year-old one dies, they will have hardly anyone in the entire congregation who is capable of acting as reader. 140 The New York Public Library The £12. 10s promised me in the contract, I have only just received, as I am preparing to start for Albany. For the time that I have served here they give me nothing. The same sum was promised me on the part of the Albanians, but to facilitate the communion I released them of their promise, although they said they would give it to me, as I offered to repay the 41 florins in Holland and 57 florins in England advanced to me by Joh. Sybrand. This, however, they would not permit, as I had used the money to purchase a cloak and necessary household furniture. Therefore, as they would not accept this sum from me, I did not want to press for any salary for the short time, though I think that I shall receive my food and bodily sustenance from them, and with this I suppose I shall have to content myself. God grant that his blessing may rest upon my efforts to build up this congregation, and may it be a joy unto me, even if not fully in time, yet in eternity. I further pray that your Right Worshipful Consistory will aid and assist me with good advice and material help, as they perceive that it is for God's glory and the maintenance of Evangelical truth in these lands. I have found here a folio Bible, also a church liturgy. If, as I surmise, I shall not find any at Albany, as there is no public church there, I trust that I shall not commit any wrong if I take my books along, or rather the local church books, and distribute them, just as I have done with those given me by the Rt. Worshipful Consistory of Amsterdam, together with those which I bought at Hamburg with the collection money. Otherwise there is a universal complaint about the scarcity of hymn- books, catechisms and Bibles. Nearly all the last-named that we have here are those sent by the Rt. Worshipful Consistory of Amsterdam and contain the name of the Rt. Rev. J. Wesling. They know little of catechisms; Bibles are found with the older families, but the new families have to borrow one from another. About Joh. B. van Deuren I can report this much that is creditable, that he not only wrought as a tailor in England, but also here in New York, and that the spirit of fanaticism had already manifested itself in him in England, as is attested by Mr. Schleydorn who knew him there. Here he was no less under this influence, and not only acted as a crazy, or inspired being in the church, but at divers times ran from his workshop into the cellar, there cried out aloud, and claimed to be conversing with God. He made the woman, in whose house he lived, believe that he wanted to marry her daughter, but that God would not give his consent. May the name of Jesus the crucified protect all girls. In his complimentary greeting to me he made use of the name more than ten times, only from the The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 141 words of Christ. Thereby everyone will recognize how fine and lovely it sounded, even as David's [psalms], and how very movingly, as he thought, it was urged [upon me]. Thus do I find in a letter written by him March 7, 1721, to one in Schohari, whom he thanks for his kind greeting, but complains that he was so cold during the past winter. In this letter he expressly makes use of the name of Jesus seven times, twice where he calls him our Lord, and once where he calls him our heavenly prince. As to the cold he experienced, this he says was a suffering for the sake of Jesus' name. He, however, consoles himself with the example set by Jesus, the warm love of Jesus and the great glory of heaven, as it is only expressed in Holy Writ. The beginning is thus: "J esus to greet you, the Holy Spirit as a kiss." He closes with these words: "I greet you with the kiss of the love of Jesus, and greet me therewith ( so obscurely he writes), that we may all be brethren and sisters in Christ Jesus, who do not live according to the flesh, but according to the Holy Spirit. This greeting from me, with the kiss of Jesus Christ. The love of God be with you all. Amen." That at this time he was still tailoring is shown by a marginal-note, wherein he writes: "This winter I have still earned pretty well." The late J. Falkener characterizes him thus (in Litteris ad eundem ex- aratis): "In him we find great craftiness in place of Christian prudence; great obstinacy in place of Christian resignation; great insolence, instead of Christian humble joyfulness. To prove this I will not give myself any trouble." So much I learn from the correspondence of that sainted man, that this praedicate applied to him is true: that he is an arch-ignoramus, who neither knows how to write German nor to spell correctly, even though he defends himself with the statement that the apostles of the Lord were fishermen and uneducated persons. As he was asked if he understood Latin, he took the proffered book and said: "God be thanked, this I understand, that is indeed Latin." When he tried to write the word "Syncretistisch," which Domine Falckner had written out for him, he wrote thus: "Syncretis reclen." His signature is: "Johann Bernhard van Diren pastor Ecclie. Jesu Christi et Luthero." The above letter shows his correspondence with the congregation in Scho- hari which had waited long for a pastor from England, who, although ordained in London by the Rev. Consistorial Councilor Mentzer, immediately 142 The New York Public Library afterwards, ab criminadictu foeda, had to run away, and later committed suicide by hanging in Holstein. Thereby he appears to have paved his way to the ministry. For I find two letters of the same year 1721, dated May 21 and 26, wherein they report to Dom. Falkener that they are informed that a High German pastor for them has arrived in New York. Further, that he has already delivered a sermon at their place, which pleased them well. From the style it is surmised that he [Van Dieren] was the concipient, and although the same three names are signed to both letters, they do not appear to be by the same hands. They further state that when he was asked who had sent him to them, the reply was that it was Dom. Boeme in England. They also had heard that he was a tailor, but they did not mind this, provided Domine Falckner would examine and ordain him. The most remarkable thing about this matter is that Domine Falkener should have taken any personal interest in furthering this matter. I find two Latin letters — one dated July 3, 1721, written by Jon. Linder- mann, Pastore Vicacaviensi, from Philadelphie; the other from Andr. Hess- elius, pastor at Christina, also in Pennsylvania, by which it is shown that the said Falckner interested himself for van Deuren, so that he might be ordained by these three Swedish pastors. The latter sent a prolix and solid letter in contrarium, from which I enclose an extract which treats particularly of J. v. Deuren's application. Upon the failure of this scheme, he went to a Palatine preacher in Penn- sylvania (if this be really true) from whom it is claimed that he obtained an attestatum Ordinationis; but no one has thus far been able to get a sight of it. Further, after his return he continued to importune Domine Falkener to ordain him. In the mean time he settled in Schohari, while boasting of his ordination. When Domine Falkener asked him why he had concealed this from him, he replied: "The Devil had blinded him, and he had shed bloody tears, regretting that he had lied to him." As soon as he had forced himself in there, he began to break the bread in the Holy Communion, and in his sermon even ordered such as objected to this to leave the church. Accordingly, some fifty-two members of the congregation wrote to Domine Falkener, and as the latter called him to account, he answered with a deal of absurd talk, in which he said: "I adhere to the words of Christ, and all those who do otherwise than Christ commanded shall stand in judgment either here or hereafter." The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 143 Domine Hesselius was not alone in giving this person a bad prognosticon. Another one of his friends, after defending him for his bread-breaking and speaking of him with great praise, let this sentence slip into a letter dated Feby. 10, 172 2/3: "If his heart is as his mouth speaketh, so it stands well with him. If it is falsehood, then I hope that it will not last long, and he must come to shame and ruin." Alas! the congregation at Schohari is now totally scattered and he had to leave there some years ago; the church as well as the parsonage there seems to have become a spoil for the Reformed of that locality. The few who still remain there keep to the Reformed. In the year 1723 the Lutherans on the Hudson River had in mind to call this Joh. v. Deuren. The plan was, however, abandoned after a consultation with Domine Falk- ener. Now as he found that he could meet with no success here in New York, he went to the Reformed at Tappan and offered to preach the Gospel of Christ unto them, as Christ had commanded. Rut the farmers would not trust him. Whereupon they took him to Domine Anthonides on Long Island, to discover whether he was of the Lutheran or Reformed faith. As thus far I have not received any account of this act from the mouth of Domine An- thonides, I will not repeat the current rumors, though I learn them from trustworthy men. In the meantime, as he was not able even ad interim to intrude himself here, he moved to Hackensack, as he travels around wherever there may happen to be a church without a pastor, whether Lutheran or Reformed. I may further mention that his father-in-law looked at me trustingly and asked, as I delivered my first sermon, that I would permit him to fill my pulpit and preach in the afternoons and when I happened to be in Albany turn my duties over to him. It is reported that since my arrival he still preaches in the house of one of the Ruskerkens, although van Ruskerken himself comes to hear my preach- ing, and they excuse themselves by saying that it was arranged long before my coming. Rut neither he [van Ruskerken] nor his household came to me to join in our communion, when the whole congregation partook of the Communion eight days ago. Accordingly I beseech your Right Worshipful and Most Honorable Rev- erences, with all proper respect, that you will kindly consider and take to heart the pitiful condition of my congregation; and even if I am to suffer poverty, for which I shall have the sympathy of strangers and my own people, 144 The New York Public Library both exalted and lowly, I trust they will come to my aid, so that the Ev. Lutheran Church here shall not succumb, which without assistance is un- avoidable, unless God should perform a miracle. Further, I beg of you for advice as to how I shall conduct myself toward van Deuren, particularly as he attempts as a wolf to break in among my sheep. Lastly, I repeat my own and the church council's rightful objection against Joh. Sybrand's demands and pretentions. I trust that your Right Worshipful Consistory will give its decision accordingly. This man shows a thoroughly wicked heart. He professed to be a zealous Lutheran. Now it has come to light that he has no religion, as during his whole lifetime he has never once partaken of our communion, and now he even threatens [to proclaim pub- licly] that God's Word is preached by others just as well. Notwithstanding his enormous bill for provisions in Amsterdam and Eng- land, as true as God lives I have had to suffer and have almost died, as Captain Serley some day will himself be able to testify. Nothing was more abundant than brandy and whisky, wherewith during the whole voyage he treated the ship's crew — in my honor as he now pretends. The bills, of which I diligently send you the originals, will plainly show you his character, and even these were only gotten from him after much trouble. At first he refused to let any one see any papers or to present his bill until a resolution was passed that he should again be sent out, and what he was to receive for his trouble. Thereupon he demanded £4 monthly as pay, and seven Holland florins weekly as spending money. Eventually he presented this bill, in which, according to the heading, the charges were made in Holland money, although in our findings he accounted for the collection funds in light money. The counter charges were made up from my journal according to the time and of what we approved, and I truly believe that even here he was too greatly favored. However, I am confident that through the kindness of your Right Worshipful Consistory all wrong will be redressed. We shall account ourselves very fortunate if your reverences will trouble yourselves with this matter. Lastly, I must remind your Right Worshipful and Most Reverend sirs, as our people appear so tardy about commencing the building there, whether it would not be advisable for the Right Worshipful Consistory to inform us if we have any funds on deposit in Holland, or if we should look elsewhere for aid. We will then send a plan of the proposed building, and will promise to bring it to completion according thereto. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 145 I trust that your Right Worshipful and Most Reverend sirs will hereby see the honesty of my intentions, which are not intended for my own, but for the best interests of the church, and will set me right where I am wrong and help me when I do right, and the richest blessings of God. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. POSTSCRIPT. November 1/12, 1725 Right Reverend, Most Learned, Right Honorable Gentlemen: As I had the good fortune today to speak to Do[mine] Anthonides himself, he briefly told me this much of the affair with van Deuren, that when the latter, who had preached the Lutheran [faith] before that time, was pre- sented to him by the four Elders of Tappan, in order to ordain or promote him to be their preacher, Domine Antonides asked him whence he had his license, and by what kind of Consistory or Classis he had been sent to be a Reformed Domine, since he had formerly been a Lutheran. Whereupon van Dueren brought forth a Reformed Bible, which he had bought near Anthonides' house, and said that that was his license, and he could preach the Gospel to the whole world, that the controversy and difference between the Lutherans and the Reformed were not worth discussing. He thereupon asked the four persons whether the congregation in Tappan had decided to join the Lutherans; if so, they might do so. With which they parted. How- ever, he promised to send me a statement from his memorandum book, with his signature. When I receive this, I shall wait upon you with it. In the meantime, since I could not get off to Albany because of contrary winds, a certain incident came to my attention yesterday, which causes me to ask your Right Reverences for gracious information for the future. The in- cident is this : A girl of Hakkensak, who has not yet been to Holy Communion, was made pregnant by a young fellow who ran off in order not to marry her. When the child was to be baptized, van Deuren requested that the mother should bring it to the church and be present at the altar. The mother refused to do that, and therefore the child was left three months without baptism. Finally, they determined to come here to New York, and requested me to baptise it. I immediately was informed that what van Deuren had suggested 146 The New York Public Library was a sort of church discipline which had formerly been practiced also in our churches. Furthermore, I feared that there might be occasion for strife, if I should perform actus ministeriales in a strange congregation; especially, since the people, simply out of antagonism, refused the offices of the one they had recognized as their pastor. Accordingly, because they also pre- tended among other things that the child was so weak, I answered that, if they could bring me two trustworthy witnesses who could affirm, loco juramenti, that the child was in periculo mortis, I would perform the baptism. In the meantime I wrote to the English preachers who in my absence serve our congregations, which, as well as other congregations, must contribute to their support; but they did not answer me, and the child was not brought either. This morning I went to Domine Boel, 76 to whom I presented the matter; he declared that they act the same way according to their Church Orders, and, ex hypothesi sua et suorum, he advised us against baptizing the child. However, because I did not want to dispute strongly with him against such a hypothesis, I received no advice. I also consulted the Church Orders, but did not properly observe the words under that subject, but scanned it fugitivis oculis. At noon the mother and her sister came to me with the child and repeated their plea with much weeping. But after a short interrogatory they had to admit ( 1 ) that the child had already been as long as three months without baptism; ( 2 ) that there was neither praesens periculum mortis nor illness; (3) that it was out of a sense of shame (as they said) that they had refused to appear; ( 4 ) that they suspected van Deuren of speaking against them out of resentment, because they had never seen it in their church. Thereupon I exhorted them to acknowledge their sin, to be obedient to the Church Laws, and requested the mother as well as her sister to ask van Deuren if he could remit the punishment; if not, they should submit them- selves to it, because the responsibility of the child's being neglected would rest, not upon van Deuren, as they at first flattered themselves, but upon themselves and all who were opposed to him. Both of them accepted this advice with modesty and expressions of thanks, and promised immediately to proceed on their way and to take the child to van Deuren, as [apparently they did, because] I saw them on the shore. Now I take the liberty to ask your Right Reverences concerning this case I. ( 1 ) Whether my conduct in this matter was justifiable and whether it is proper that I thereby saved my office and my conscience. (2) Whether or not such punishment, as to force the mother to be present at the public 76 Henricus Boel, Dutch Reformed minister at New York, 1713-1754. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 147 baptism of the child, is in conflict with our doctrine de necessitate baptismi, because thereby the child is in danger of being deprived of baptism until such time as the mother can be churched. I find in the General Church Orders, P.I, cap. 3, art. 2, that provision is made, not only that baptism in the home is allowed in casu necessitatis, ( 2 ) when the weakness of the child demands it, but also (3) that it is commanded: "The pastors shall not refuse to baptize any children that are not baptized, when they are requested to do so." And stante hac sententia de necessitate baptismi, quae medii dicitfur], I conclude that the punishment is unjust according to our correct Lutheran belief, and cannot take place in our church. ( 3 ) Whether it were not better that the father of the child be there, if he is present, and if he is not present or will not comply, that the child nevertheless receive baptism, and church discipline be exercised in a different manner wherein the child will not be brought under it, and yet the parents be moved to repentance and to give witness of it to the congregation concerning that particular scandal. II. I am in doubt about the words: "The pastors must baptize all children that are not baptized when they are requested to do so." Therefore I ask, ( 1 ) if that is to be understood to refer to children in my own congregation; or, if I can baptize children also (2) of other Lutheran congregations; (3) of Reformed congregations; (4) those born of savage parents, if I am re- quested to do so. For one can easily find a case here for all of these [situ- ations]. Domine Boel would contradict me in this, ex hoc capite, because the parents are generally known, that they not only have received the cov- enant themselves, but that they are also actually in the covenant, and testify of it in holy living. ( 5 ) Whether no exceptions are valid, or no precautions should be used, but that merely the desire of the people to whom the children belong should be enough for me. III. I find, e.g., that a mother who had a child born out of wedlock, had to carry it in her arms at the marriage. The question is : ( 1 ) Whether I must accept pro lege such things which I find incidentally stated, and act accord- ingly, id sine dispensatione, quam prudentis ecclesiastica svadet, non partium studium, just because they are written there; ( 2 ) Whether that kind of disci- pline can be practiced propria autoritate ex legis; or, (3) Whether such a case must first be brought before the Church Council, and be confirmed anew, licet non refragante, qui poenam meruit. IV. Since I do not find the least thing here in which a form of church discipline is prescribed; also nothing is determined in the General Church Orders, P. I, c. 6, art. 1, praeter gradus admonitionum quos excommunicatio sequitur, but rather vi conclusi Classis de 1676, everything else is left to each 148 The New York Public Library Consistory; therefore, I beg your Right Reverences, if it would not please you to give me a few subsidia in which such cases shall be stated, the punish- ments regulated, and in the future can be carried out pro lege perpetua. I should like to transmit these to your Right Reverences for criticism and confirmation. V. Since I have received the Church Orders from your Right Reverences, I am concerned, if I regulate myself according to them and proceed accord- ing to them as far as a case is decided either ad litteram or per pronam conse- quentiam, whether I am sufficiently warranted, since the sigillum Consistorii and further authority is not affixed to that end, without which it must first be said that "no other edition or copy will be valid or accepted." VI. I find in the Church Orders, P. I, c. 3, art. 6, these words: "our Chris- tians shall also be very careful that in acting as sponsors at the baptism of children of other denominations, they do nothing that is contrary to their once adopted Confessions, or give offense to others." I do not understand whether ( 1 ) this completely prohibits our brethren in the faith from acting as sponsors for those who are other-minded, or ( 2 ) that it is only forbidden to take part in certain conditions of sponsorship which might be customary with those others, and ( 3 ) what I must do, since I must conclude, from the customary and very common practice of those who are other-minded of standing sponsor for our children, that our people will not allow themselves to be kept from this, whether or not mixtum conjugium valde consultum ex modo non ordinarium. VII. This reminds me that in our Formula, p. 9, certain questions are asked of the witnesses at the end of baptism, which I should ordinarily not like to omit without need, but should rather like to keep them there. Now if it should happen that witnesses of another religion are present, it is a question ( 1 ) whether I should not do better, in that case, to leave them out, if no Lutheran witness is there, so that sponsis eventui praesumptive contraria should not happen, and ( 2 ) whether I should also inquire into the situation beforehand. Summe Reverendi Dni Dni Dabitis, ut spew veniam quaerenti Consiliumque humiliter precanti Berckenmeyero Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 149 ACCOUNT of Johannes Sybrandt to the Amsterdam Consistory of his dis- pute with the Lutheran Consistory at New York. [1726] 77 Humble memorial or account to the Reverend, Highly Learned, Very Wise and Prudent Gentlemen, the Pastors and Elders of the Consistory at Amster- dam adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, as to what took place between me, the undersigned, and the Consistory of the said Confession at New York, together with Domine Wilhelm Christ off el Berkenmyer, recently ordained by your Reverences as pastor for the aforesaid congregation. In order that your Reverences may the more clearly see and understand the exact, yes, simple and true, circumstances of everything, I shall relate this matter from the beginning, begging your Reverences not to take it ill if I may seem somewhat too prolix, as I am forced to do so, because I do not have the ability to speak the Dutch language well, much less to set forth what happened in such order and detail as are proper. As to the beginning, then, of this for me very difficult and detrimental commission, it so happened in the year 1723, on September 11/22, when I came to New York from the Bermudas, after a half -lost voyage, that there came to me Johan s . La Grangsie and Carel Beekman, deacons of the above mentioned congregation, who lamented that they were very uneasy and sad about the decease of their pastor, Dom. Justus Valkener, not knowing where they could get another. I answered that they must write for one, to which they replied that the church had but very little money. I thereupon said, "Well, the church giving a little and you a little, it will go all right. As for me, I am ready to agree to pay his passage from Amsterdam to New York." This statement of mine having been reported by them to the other members of the congregation, the consistory resolved to send me over and to have the necessary letters prepared. Those of Hackensak having heard of it, the consistory of that place decided to send me by their lay- reader a call and recommendation, or petition, to make use thereof. Which petition having been turned over by me to the consistory at New York, they did not find it drawn up to their satisfaction and therefore asked me to go to Hackensak, which I agreed to do and accomplished. When I arrived at Hackensak, I informed the consistory of what was required but they excused themselves, stating that they never had had a call or similar paper written for them. But Thomas van Boskerken offered me a writing in the name of the entire congregation, which I refused to accept, as I could do 77 Written in Amsterdam and delivered personally not later than February, 1726. 150 The New York Public Library nothing with it. He thereupon asked me on what basis or condition I would then go to Amsterdam. I replied as above, namely, that I was willing to pay the Domine's passage from Amsterdam to New York, but the congre- gation would have to bear and pay the further expenses. He was well satis- fied with that and so we further agreed and decided that if those of New York drew up a petition, power of attorney and call, they would be satisfied therewith and approve the same. But when I returned to New York, the ship on which I was to go, was ready to sail. Furthermore, those of New York had meanwhile got ready all the documents which I was to take with me, so that there was no time to get also the promise made by the Hacken- sackers. Under these circumstances I presented to La Grange a question, namely, in case the voyage should not be successful, what I was to have then for myself. He answered that he could promise me nothing, but that he would do by me what he wished God would do by him, which I also promised on my side. Furthermore, they promised to send to me the docu- ments from Hackensak, together with a letter of recommendation and assistance, which was never done, as your Reverences know. So much as to the beginning, and on what condition and agreement ( with- out having received a stiver for traveling expenses from the consistory) I sailed from New York and, having arrived here in Amsterdam via England, I addressed myself to your Reverences. I shall not delay your Reverences by relating in detail what happend in the meantime and until my return here from Hamburg with Dom. Berkenmyer, as it is sufficiently known to your Reverences, and for further confirmation thereof I refer to the accom- panying affidavit of Dom. Berkenmyer, for so far as he testifies regarding my commission to procure a domine for the Lutheran congregation at New York. Now follows a short, but, as said above, simple and true, account of my experiences at New York with Dom. Berkenmyer, both of us having arrived there on September 11/22, Anno 1725. At first everything was all right, so that [he] was accepted by them, but when it came to the point that an account had to be rendered of the collec- tion money received by me, here, at Hamburg, Copenhagen, Holstein, etc., and on the other hand of my expenditures, differences arose between Dom. Berkenmyer, the consistory and me, consisting herein that they disputed my expense account and charged me with various items, yes, even desired that I should give all my lost time in so many months for nothing, in view of promises made by me, of which your Reverences have more detailed information from himself. As to my promise, this is in truth only what has The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 151 been stated above and I declare that in the account of expenditures I have charged no more than in truth has been paid and that the money has been spent for no other purpose than for the best interests of the congregation. As to my loss of time and much trouble suffered in 21 months, I doubt not but your Reverences yourselves will judge it reasonable and fair that I am decently paid for it, inasmuch as through my trouble and danger the congregation have now been brought to a state where they again have a pastor, the more so as it can be done without prejudice [to the treasury of the church], and as those who stayed at home and tended to their business or occupation and who were so concerned about once more having a pastor might hereafter also apply their generosity to that end, in view of the fact that they are many and that their station and circumstances are such that they can afford it. Furthermore, I calculate that the church at present, with a bequest of £300, recently made to it by Pr. van Worlum [Pieter van Woggelum], has a capital of about £500, from which it draws 6 per cent [interest] a year. Therefore, I ask your Reverences to consider whether the claim of Dom. Berkenmyer and the consistory against me is not ill- founded and unreasonable, considering that I have done and performed everything at my own risk, with no other object or motive but my simple zeal and devotion for religion in such far distant parts. It is also to be con- sidered that if God Omniscient had not moved your Reverences' hearts to assist me and to promote my object without my having those complete and required orders as to [the call] of a Dutch pastor and assurance as to the confirmation of the promises made by those of Hackensak and Albany, I should have had to return whence I came without having accomplished my mission and then my little capital, for which with much trouble and labor I have sailed the seas for so many years, would have been lost. But, with that my risk was not yet ended, for it is not unknown to your Reverences that those of Hackensak had separated from the New Yorkers about some difference that had arisen between them and would not contribute to the support of a Domine, in which [refusal] they still continue, so that during the voyage from here to New York I lived in great anxiety, wondering how upon our arrival at New York the matter would finally turn out. For, if things had not turned out as they have now, I should have had to return hither with the Domine and then, in addition to the 21 months already devoted thereto, have had to spend many more months and have remained without occupation or livelihood. So that in view of such treatment of me I may conclude with reason that the intention of the Domine and the con- sistory is no other than that of the Jews of old, who thought that it was 152 The New York Public Library good if one died for all the people, and therefore they also want me to be the scape-goat for all of them and to be at their service. As to the words which Dom. Berkenmyer has been pleased to put into his affidavit, namely, that I wished that his last anger was not more violent than his first love, I cannot imagine what he means by that, or what moved him to utter that sentence, for from the beginning in Hamburg, then here in this city, and everywhere until at New York, yes, in New York, I have served him as a servant wherever I could be of service to him, unless he has become angry with me about the following, to wit: First, in Amsterdam, before our departure, I noticed that he was not well pleased that the voyage from here to New York was arranged to be made direct, and not via England. The reason why it was thus decided is not unknown to your Reverences, namely, in order not to incur another fl. 300 or fl. 400 in expenses, which would certainly have amounted to at least that much. Second, being on board, during the voyage from England to New York, the captain of the ship, at one time while we sat talking about one thing and other, happened to ask where the Domine after his arrival at New York would put up or have his lodgings. I answered, at Charles Beekman's, a shoemaker, but a deacon of the church. The captain, without knowing the person or the house, thereupon said that was no lodging place for the Domine. I replied that it would be fully as good there as what the Domine had had at Hamburg. I noticed then that my remark was not agreeable to Dom. Berkenmyer, although upon his arrival at New York he found that I had not spoken ill, for Dom. Berkenmyer took up his lodgings with the said person and still lives there. Moreover, he had no reason not to make use there- of, for it is a fine new house and he has two fine rooms there for his use. Third, when I was to render an account of the money collected by me, I also had to report what I had paid to and for Dom. Berkenmyer, which amounts to about fl. 450, for I could not omit it or keep still about it without doing the same in the receipts, which was not justifiable for me. I particularly noticed Dom. Berkenmyer's displeasure at this, so that all I can think of is that this is what is called "the last anger." In order not to delay your Reverences any longer I let it go at this in giving information about what happened, which would take still longer if I should set forth everything in detail. For the rest, I firmly hope and expect that your Reverences will not only approve the account rendered by me at New York, but also award me the least compensation which I have put The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 153 down for my lost time of 21 months to find a Domine, as also the time from September 11/22, Anno 1725, when I was delayed at New York and pre- vented from further seeking my fortune, whereby, instead of settling with me, they have forced me to return here to justify my account, so that I again need time to return to New York, which lost time I calculate to amount together to 30 months. I do not claim now for the time lost what heretofore I have sometimes earned and received, namely, three pounds or more a month, but, just as out of simple zeal and inclination I set out for the con- gregation, I shall continue to do so with regard to my claim for lost time and not ask more than Mons r . Leppenaar [Lispenard] at the meeting in New York suggested, namely, that for two pounds a month one could hire a man to work daily up to his middle in the mud. Although I am much prejudiced thereby, I abide however by this statement of £2 a month, which, counting the pound at fl. 8, Holland money, makes fl. 16 per month, amounting for the 30 months, or 2y 2 years, to fl. 480, in addition to my traveling expenses and support for 9 months, for which I expect that your Reverences will be pleased to allow me so much that I shall not suffer any appreciable loss. But, in accordance with my promise to pay the Domine's passage, to which reference has been made, I offer to deduct the amount, to wit, fl. 150, although, subject to correction, I am of opinion that I should not be held to do so, as the churchmasters and deacons on their part have not shown the least sign of any intention to participate therein or, at least, to follow my example, and perhaps have no intention either of ever doing so, for they are all together persons of such type, as Dom. Berkenmyer may possibly have painted them to your Reverences. For the rest I very humbly pray your Reverences to be pleased not only to give me a brief copy of your decision, but such a decision that for my inclination and well-meant zeal for the service of God I may not be set back too much, and in order that I may find the opportunity which still exists at London to get back to New York, for in case I should miss this, yes, perhaps my entire ruin be caused thereby, it would be still harder and detrimental to me. In expectation whereof, after having wished your Rev- erences all happiness and blessing, I remain, Your Reverences very humble servant, Johannes Sybrandt Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 154 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 16th of January Anno 1726. There were read two letters from New York, one signed by the Consistory on September 20, 1725, thanking this assembly for the trouble taken about the choosing of Pastor Wilhelm Christophel Berkenmeyer, with whom they declare themselves to be completely satisfied, stating that no one is found who is not willing to acknowledge him according to the promise made in the power of attorney from the Consistory. The other letter, signed by Dom. Wilhelm Christophel Berkenmeyer, in the name of that Consistory, on the 18th of October, 1725, notifies [this assembly] of some difference which has arisen between the Consistory and Johannes Sybrants, regarding his account of the expenses incurred in pro- curing their pastor, which difference the Consistory refers to this assembly, requesting them to pass judgment on the mutual account current which they inclose. Whereupon Mr. Christiaan Nieugaard communicated a letter written by Johannes Sybrands to Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard, in which he states that he intends to come over at the first opportunity and then to make his defense and furnish information about the matter. For which reason it is decided to keep that letter until then. Furthermore, there was opened a letter from Pastor Wilhelm Christophel Berkenmeyer, written in his private capacity, which, on account of its prolixity, was given to Dom. Van Garel, with the request that his Reverence be pleased to read it to [this assembly] at the next ordinary meeting. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, pages 373, 374. o a o MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 20th of February . . . Anno 1726. There came upstairs Johannes Sybrands, from New York, handing in a memorial for verification of his account, submitting, as the Consistory of New York did by their letter of October 28 [18] Anno 1725, the difference about it to the judgment and decision of this assembly. Which memorial having been read, Dom. Meyer and Messrs. de Meyere and Christiaan Nieugaard are appointed to examine the matter and to make final disposition thereof. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 375. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 155 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION furnished by Johannes Sybrandt to the Amsterdam Consistory. February 20, 1726 Some further information and remarks regarding the congregations at New York, Hakkensack and Albany, which I deem to be useful to this, your Rev- erend Body. The so-called churchmasters at New York are Andries and Pieter van Boskercken, who are held to possess each a capital of over 2000 pounds. Johannes Le Grance [La Grange] and Charles Beekman are deacons. They each have two houses in the city of New York. Anthoni Leppener [Lispenard] lives in the country. He sells each year from 30 to 40 fat oxen on the market and is also estimated to possess a capital of 2000 pounds. Aside from these there are several others who own their own homes, but their further condition is not known to me in particular. Thomas van Boskercken is justice of the peace at Hakkensack and also churchmaster of the Lutheran church there. Those of Albany are unknown to me. The congregation at New York consists of about 25 to 30 f amilies. Those of Hakkensak I judge to be no fewer, and those of Albany even more numerous. Your Reverences will please judge from this what sort of comparison or discrimination there can be between me alone and all of them, among whom there are men of substance, as mentioned above, while I have no means, except the little which in many years at sea I have been able to save from my wages or monthly pay, and now already for 2y 2 years have been without earning anything. And yet, they would like that for my loss of time and services rendered I should suffer still more loss and, what is most remarkable, that not one of them should personally perform or do anything. Your Reverences' humble servant, Amsterdam, Feb. 20, 1726 Johannes Sybrandt Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. INFORMATION submitted by Johannes Sybrandt to the Committee of the Amsterdam Consistory regarding his accounts in dispute with the New York Consistory. February 25, 1726 Further information and remarks very humbly [submitted to] the Very Reverend, Highly Learned, Wise and Prudent Gentlemen of the Com- 156 The New York Public Library mittee, in the matter between the consistory of New York and me, the undersigned. The Consistory's claim against me, according to their account, is fl. 673.10 Against this there is due to me the amount itemized and deducted from my account . . . . fl. 198. 3 And for my lost time in 30 months and what your Rev. may further be pleased to allow me for the ex- penses of this voyage which I had to make and have been forced to make, as it were, to come here again from New York and to return from here to New York " 480. fl. 678. 3 Less my so-called promises for the passage from here to New York " 150. fl. 528. 3 So that I owe the church, instead of fl. 673.10, only . " 145. 7 fl. 673.10 Upon my appearance at New York, when I handed in my account of receipts and expenditures and proposed that they pay me in addition for my lost time in so many months, I was asked what I demanded. In reply I asked whether they would give me fl. 7. - per week. Whereupon they answered that such a demand was unchristian. Debating this matter, I told them that my demand was not unchristian, but just and reasonable, since as a seaman I had earned as much as 3 pounds a week. I asked them whether they would not give me 4 pounds, whereupon Mons r . Leppenaar [Lispenard] answered me that for 2 pounds a month he could hire a man who worked all day long in the mud, up to his middle. I replied: "It is no wonder that you compare me to a mud digger, because, being a landlubber, you have no knowledge or understanding of anything but mud and dirt and know what they are for, so your judgment cannot be otherwise. I am sorry to have to admit that your consideration in this case is not mal a propos, but quite appropriate, because you people have not only put me in the mud up to my middle, but rather up to my lips, by not fulfilling your promise to write to me, much less to send me the necessary proofs of those of Hakkensak and Albany that they likewise agreed to pay the pastor 200 guilders a year toward his salary. Furthermore, you have not furnished me one stiver for the execution of such a big, lengthy, difficult The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 157 and expensive undertaking. I had to do all this with my own small means, and at the peril of my further prosperity, for it is as clear as day that if the good Lord had not assisted me and the hearts of the highly praised Con- sistory at Amsterdam had not been moved to offer me the helping hand — for which I am and always shall be humbly grateful and obliged to them — I would have lost all my little substance." I subsequently submitted to them my account, but the Domine and they did with it as they pleased. I further proposed: First, if they would give one-half of that sum to the church, I would do so too. Second, if they would give assurance that within three years they would rebuild the church de novo, or at least have it properly repaired, I would let what is due to me stand that long, without interest. Third, whether they were willing to submit the difference to arbitrators? Fourth, whether they were willing at least to give back to me my own capital which I had in my hands when, Anno 1723, I left New York on this difficult affair? Domine Berkenmeyer took the floor and proposed that I should prove how much it was. I answered that I could do that, for first I could prove by Messrs. Laasbye & Nieugaard how much I had left in their hands when the first time I went from here to Hamburg, adding thereto the costs of the voyage from New York to London and from there to this city, besides what I had with me in cash when, as said above, I left for Hamburg. But all my proposals for amiable settlement were rejected. There was nothing else to do but the account must be justified at Amsterdam by the Consistory, so that your Reverences can see that I have been forced and compelled to undertake this voyage of mine to Amsterdam. For clarification I add hereto the following little schedule. The following is what the Consistory disputes in my account and wants to deduct therefrom, namely: On the voyage from New York to London and from London to Amsterdam fl. 6. Expenses in Hamburg, 1st time "47. To Sapmeer "4. Expenses in Amsterdam, 2d time "12. ditto in Hamburg do "15. On the voyage to Liibek, Denmark, Holstein, etc "88. Necessaries in Amsterdam, with the Domine " 6. 3 In England, for customs "20. fl. 198. 3 158 The New York Public Library When I now put down that about fl. 800. was kept by Messrs. Laasbye & Nieugaard, which, however, is not so, and against this I must pay: The amount claimed as above fl. 198. 3 And in addition the so-called promise for passage ..." 150. fl. 348. 3 There would then remain for me only " 451.17 Making the total of . . . . fl. 800. And when I left New York my capital was more than fl. 600.-. Conse- quently, my loss, aside from my total loss of time in so many months, would amount to about fl. 150.-. But consider, I pray you, the same in the following way, as, subject to correction, it ought to be: My total receipts, according to the account, are . . . fl. 1774. Less what I paid, according to account " 1337. 3 Balance fl. 436.17 Against this there is due to me for the period of 30 months fl. 480. less the " 150. fl.330. fl. 106.17 Declaration as to what the fl. 600 consisted of which I had with me when I left New York: The voyage from New York, via England, to Amsterdam cost about fl. 120. I left with Messrs Laasbye & Nieugaard " 379.17 Had with me in cash going from here to Hamburg, first time . " 125. fl. 624.17 Your very humble servant Amsterdam, Feb. 25, 1726. Johannes Sybrandt o o o MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 6th of March Anno 1726. After reading and approval of the minutes kept on the 20th of February, Dom. Meyer reported that his Beverence and Messrs. Cornelis de Meyere and Hendrick Issendorp had received from Frans Kreuger and Bebecca The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 159 Non, man and wife, the two small silver-gilt boxes and had thanked them for the gift in the name of this assembly. Also, that his Reverence and Messrs. de Meyere and Christiaan Nieugaard had decided and settled the dispute between the consistory of New York and Johannes Sybrands. They also read the letter which the committee had drafted to be delivered to that consistory by the above named Sybrands, in which the decision and judgment is expressed, whereupon what had been done was approved and the committee were thanked for the trouble they had taken. The same were also authorized to give to the above named Sybrants, at his request, in the name of this Consistory, a certificate of his conduct in connection with the execution of his mission, and to have the same, provided with our usual church seal, signed by the secretary. Whereupon Dom. van Garel made a brief report of the prolix letter signed by Dom. Wilhelm Christophel Berkenmeyer at New York, namely, that, after expressions of thanks to this Reverend Consistory for all the kindness shown to the writer, this letter contains, first, an account of what happened between the consistory and members of the congregation at New York and Johannes Sybrands, about the procuring of a pastor, in which the consistory alleges that the aforesaid Sybrands promised more than he performed, for which reason, as also on account of his maintenance and expenses, they dispute the account submitted by him. Second, an account of the dis- turbances caused at New York, Hakensack, Tzachochair [Schoharie], and other places by one Johan van Duren, a former tailor, who through un- reasonable zeal assumes the pastoral office, and who, for so far as appears from this letter, is an ignorant syncretist, who wants to and does force him- self in everywhere, and preaches, administers sacraments, and exercises church discipline, without authority, since he has by no one been called, examined, or ordained, and who as persistently has tried to be ordained by the Lutherans as by the Reformed, it being the same to him to whom and what he preaches. Third, a description of the miserable condition of the congregation and of the church in which the preaching takes place, as also of the little income and the lack of provision and care of the members for the establishment and support of religion. Fourth, a request for assistance and the sending over of some Bibles and catechisms. And finally, the request that it might please the Consistory at Amsterdam to admonish the consistory and congregation at New York to build up and improve their church. All of which having been heard, Dom. van Garel was appointed to formulate an answer thereto. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Protocol of Minutes of the Consistory, No. 6, pages 376, 377. 160 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutheran Consistory at New York. March 6, 1726 Reverend and much beloved Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ: We have with the greatest astonishment learned from your Reverences' letter of the 18th of October last past that a dispute has arisen between your Reverences and Johannes Sybrands. We also see that the matter has been referred to us, with the request to make a definite decision therein and to make the judgment known to Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard, in order that the balance of the money collected in their custody may be remitted and turned over to your Reverences for your disposal. The reasons for our astonishment are as follows: In regard to the writer, Dom. Rerkenmeyer, that, notwithstanding his Reverence himself must acknowledge that the love and attentiveness of the aforesaid Sybrands toward his Reverence's person and his zeal for the honor of God and the true interest of the New York congregation were so great that everyone in his fatherland not only praised, but admired, the good conduct of this stranger, he has nevertheless seen fit to stigmatize him with the most hateful names of deceiver, etc., and to denigrate his conduct in such a way that his honor and good name are thereby not a little tarnished and injured. Rut the most astonishing part of all is in regard to yourselves, that your Reverences so little appreciate the good services of the said Sybrands and so poorly reward the same, considering that he is the man who concerned himself so much about the conservation and welfare of your Reverences' congregation that he gave up his trade and livelihood, for more than two years traveled on land and sea, risked his health, spent his own money, ran the greatest risks, and, with rare energy, provided your Reverences with an honest pastor, and also, with much trouble, care and diligence collected the necessary means thereto. It seems very strange, yes, unreasonable, to us that your Reverences, who have put no hand to the plow and incurred no expenses, but have sat softly and comfortably at home and in your business, trading and handicraft have made profits, should not only be unwilling to allow him the least credit for his trouble and labor, but in addition dare to accuse him of having made up a false and fraudulent account, charged too much for the expenditures made, entered some items twice, and of having in that way tried to cheat and defraud your church, with the result that he has now been obliged to come over for the second time, to justify himself and his actions before us. We wish that your Reverences had pleased to save us from accepting this troublesome commission, but since it has pleased your Reverences to appoint The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 161 us as judges in this matter, we hereby say and declare that, having made inquiries as to the person and conduct of Johannes Sybrands, we find him to be an honest man, who in good faith has listed the sums collected and has duly accounted for the same. Furthermore, we admit that, being a poor writer and probably a better sailor than bookkeeper, he has rendered and delivered a confused and badly drawn-up account, but that does not destroy the validity of the items en- tered, and does not prejudice him, any more than the counter account which your Reverences with good intention and zeal for the interests of your Rev- erences' congregation, but, under correction, also merely on loose ground and by guesswork, have formed and made up. For Christian love commends us to have a good opinion of our Brother, who has done so much for the church, and to believe that he, who is found faithful in the accounting of the moneys collected and the gifts of charity, will also have faithfully acquitted himself in the task of entering and noting down the traveling and other expenses paid by him. Therefore, we have had the account drawn up in its proper form, as it is inclosed herewith. We have approved it, left it intact and deducted nothing from the traveling and other expenses, but condemned the Tenderer, Sy- brands, to pay the costs of transportation of Dom. Berkenmeyer, amounting to the sum of one hundred and fifty guilders, which by voluntary promise he had agreed to pay. Finally, in consideration of the time of more than twenty months which with much trouble, danger and inconvenience he has spent and wasted, and the services which, although voluntarily and out of love, but never- theless with neglect of his occupation and livelihood, he has rendered, and taking into consideration also the loss and heavy expenses which he must incur on account of this second voyage back and forth to Amsterdam and New York, we have, in order not to oppress him, but in some measure to relieve him, found it reasonable and fair to allow him therefor an honest compensation and recognition. For which purpose, then, and for the reasons aforesaid, we have allowed and granted him, once for all, a sum of three hundred guilders, the more so, as from the money collected there will then still remain for the congregation of New York, etc., a sum of three hundred and forty-one guilders, four stivers, as appears from the account inclosed herewith, which money Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard have agreed to remit to your Reverences. We doubt not but your Reverences, having in calmness realized and perceived the fairness of this our decision and award, will be satisfied there- 162 The New York Public Library with and henceforth continue to live in Christian-brotherly love, peace and friendship with the above mentioned Johannes Sybrants, in which ex- pectation we pray God that He may bless your persons and cause you and the congregation to flourish, remaining further with much affection and after hearty greetings, Your Reverences' very affectionate friends and fellow-brethren in Christ, By order of this Consistory [Not signed] Amsterdam, March 6, Anno 1726 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, pages 367-370. o o o CERTIFICATE of faithful conduct of Johannes Sybrandt Testimonial delivered to Johannes Sybrants: The Consistory of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam hereby declares and certifies that Johannes Sybrands, sent out by those of New York and Albany who adhere to our Confession to procure, with our assistance, a pastor for them, and for the benefit of those brethren to take up a collection here and elsewhere, has in that capacity and in the execution of such com- mission, as far as we know, honestly and faithfully acquitted himself. In further witness of the truth, this our certificate given to him has been con- firmed by our usual church seal and been signed by the secretary. Amster- dam, the 6th of March, Anno 1726. Casparus van den Broeck, h. c. sects. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, page 371. o o o MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the first of May Anno 1726. An answer was read to the letter from New York, dated October 21, 1725, drafted by Dom. van Garel, in accordance with the commission entrusted to him by the Consistory. The contents were approved. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 382. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 163 DECLARATION of the Lutheran Consistory at New York that they will abide by the decision of the Amsterdam Consistory in the matter of Johannes Sybrandt's disputed accounts. June 5, 1726 Lfectori] Sfalutem]: Whereas our fellow-brother, Mr. Johannes Sybrand, having turned over the account of the moneys which in the name of the Protestant Lutheran congregation in the city of New York were collected by him in Hamburg, Liibeck, Kiel and Copenhagen, as well as the Amsterdam gifts which by Christian hearts were contributed and entrusted to him for the upbuilding of our church and the support of our Domine, has modestly requested our Consistory, who for that purpose provided him with a power of attorney concerning the calling of a Nether-Dutch Lutheran pastor, and another, containing our request for assistance from our co-religionists in the old countries, dated December 11/22, 1723, to give him a trustworthy testimonial to that effect, we have felt it our duty to satisfy his request, as our free conscience makes us speak and write the truth before God All-knowing. Therefore, we hereby certify on our good conscience and in the name of our congregation, who, man for man, can testify the same, that the above named Johannes Sybrand is the author of this undertaking, so that he not only has given us all these contributions, but has also offered and agreed to make the voyage and promised that he would bring the pastor here at his, Sybrand's, expense, aside from his baggage and some eventual expenses in England, which were assumed by the congregation. The reasons for this arrangement were, on Joh. Sybrand's side, that he, following the sea, could make the voyage while earning his living, and on our side, that otherwise we would not have dared to undertake the matter, for which we heartily thank him. We also declare that we felt great joy and satisfaction at his return, by reason of his having been so graciously helped by God in obtaining a pastor, whom we like, as well as a sum of money, over which the church could rejoice. But, it therefore seemed all the more strange to us that our fellow-brother Joh. Sybrand, whom we regarded as faithful and whom, having come here, we could not persuade immediately to go out again to take up the collections which were still out- standing in England and in Holstein, presented a claim against us for com- pensation which exceeded the amount of the collections. Yes, hearing that we, though relying on his promises, nevertheless generously released him from the payment of the expenses and only desired to know how much of the money had been spent, he made up such an account that not only all 164 The New York Public Library those who saw it were astonished at it, but that he himself said of it that he would keep us in the dark all right and take revenge for the ungratefulness shown to him, so that we were compelled to refer the matter to the Right Rev. Lutheran Consistory at Amsterdam. At this, Joh. Sybrand became so alarmed, that he publicly slandered the entire consistory, having previously tried to make our Domine hated and suspected and threatened not only to leave the congregation, but also to molest them. However, commending all this to God and having sent further infor- mation about our difference to the Right Rev. Consistory at Amsterdam, we declare that in regard to our settlement with the above named Johannes Sybrand we shall be satisfied with the final decision of the entire Protestant Lutheran Consistory at Amsterdam, even if we should find that our narration of all that has happened is of no effect. From which it will at least appear that in everything we have been innocent and that our congregation, having received much help, is still helped very little. In witness whereof this declaration has been underwritten and signed by the consistory of the Protestant Lutheran congregation in the city of New York that at that time had the management of affairs, and is also con- firmed by the seal of our consistory. Thus done at our meeting in the city of New York, on Mahanatten, the 5th of June, Anno 1726. Andries van Boscerck PlETER VAN BOSCERC johannis lagrangie Charles Beckman Arch. Ev. L. Ch. at Amst. Portfolio America, a a o LETTER from Rev. Wilhelm C. Berckenmeyer, on behalf of the Lutheran Consistory at New York, to the Amsterdam Consistory. June 10, 1726 Right Reverend, Very Wise Gentlemen, Very Kind Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ: Our humble petition to your Reverences of October 18, 1725, was that it might please your Reverences to pronounce judgment in the difference which had arisen between us and Mr. Joh. Sybrand concerning his account, whether we had allowed him too much or too little; also, whether his claim was more just than our reason for not paying it. And furthermore, to make known your Reverences' decision to Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard, in The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 165 order that the balance due to us according to his account and your Rev- erences' approval might be left at our disposal, without the said Joh. Sybrand being able to prevent it, since it is known everywhere that he collected the moneys not for himself, but for our congregation and church. Thereupon, at our meeting held on May 30th, Mr. Joh. Sybrands de- livered your Reverences' letter of March 6th, a. c, received already on the 23d, which we respectfully read and now have the honor to answer properly through our Domine. 1. With regard to the writer, Dom. Berk[enmeyer], your Reverences make known your astonishment that he thought fit to brand Sybr[and] with the hateful names of deceiver, etc., and to blacken his conduct in such a way that his honor and good name are not a little injured and damaged thereby, notwithstanding every one in his fatherland has not only lauded the good conduct of this stranger, but also admired it, according to his own acknowledgement. The first applies, I think, to the statement in the letter that from Sybrand's account appeared his deceit and trick to keep us in the dark. There stands the deceiver! The added remarks, etc., apply perhaps to Sybrand's story based on the intercepted Hamburg correspondence, from which he knows to relate a good deal as having been heard in England. Finally, my certificate is attacked, which, at Joh. Sybrand's request, was granted to him according to my conscience and ex-officio, on October 26, 1725. 2. Without expecting to be regarded as branding the writer, Dom. Casp. van den Broek, I must say his Honor, being a defender of Joh. Sybr[and], commits herein fallaciam compositionis ex divisionis, and uses pretty harsh words in accusing me on such loose grounds. Mr. Secretary, quomode quid simul verum esse possit ex falsum, respondeas velim mihi ex sic. defensore non opus habea, is it not so? Sybrand, having been branded, had charity; now he is stubborn. Sybrand collected moneys, now he seeks to squander them. Sybrand served the New York congregation, now it would be a pleas- ure to him to oppress them. Sybrand lauded his pastor, now he blames and slanders him. Sybrand, being in Holland, wanted to devour the Calvinists, now they are worth more to him than the Lutherans. Distingue tempora ex sic hac propositiones concordabunt optime. I know people in Amsterdam, of great reputation, who thought little of Sybrand; now he is in great favor with them. Whether that is also true, Mr. v. d. Broek may judge. 3. It seems that Sybrand is believed, rather than a pastor who appeals to his conscience. Is that the virtuous pastor whom Sybrand brought over, whom they publicly dare to denounce as a man without conscience and 166 The New York Public Library to blacken by an authorized person? But anyone reading the certificate given by me will find that from the matter referred to by the Consistory I excepted that wherein in my letter to the Reverend Consistory I accuse him of having committed fraud. Inter concretivam et abstracttivam propositionem, there is, as I have heard, still a difference. But there is still greater difference between the certificate and the letter; one has reference to Sybrand's con- duct in Europe, the other to that in America; one to the time before he had the pastor and the collection money, the other to the time when he was to render his account. Sed minima non curat praetor! In one word, Sy- brand is he who mains qui ubi bonum se simulavit tunc suit pessimque. And I hope that God, who hates all falseness, will before the eyes of the whole world brand him as an arch-deceiver, etc. He himself admits that he had kept and would keep us in the dark. Is he then not a deceiver? Self- confession is there; what more does a lawyer need? However, to give one more sample of Sybrand's deceit. It so happened a few days ago that Joh. Sybrand demanded his will which a few years ago he had given to our church. This being read, it was found, and he himself had to admit it, that it was so deceitfully and loosely drawn that we would not have benefited thereby one bit, even if he had left thousands. What else can be deduced from this, but that he wanted to gain credit with the congregation in order that they might entrust something to him. Thereby he had opened the way to being entrusted with the collections and his true object was to be entrusted by the congregation with the church money in order that he might sail as captain and earn so much that the church would greatly inherit from him. Thus his zeal for the honor of God shines forth; of him who so innocently was branded by the name of deceiver! 4. The Right Reverend Consistory will forgive me if one writer justifies himself against another writer. Meanwhile, I ask your Reverences to consider and judge whether in regard to this accusation of branding, they have found me, since I was appointed to office or, through God's grace, have now held the office for a year, to have acted contrary to my conscience, and whether I have deserved for what I attested according to my conscience to be thus publica authoritate injured in my office and honor. I claim, with God's help, to have as clear a conscience as any of those who can testify about Sybrand. Furthermore, whether I could, on my conscience, have given any other cer- tificate to Sybrand, who, as soon as he had me in his power and firmly en- gaged, changed his attitude toward me. I do not mention the rascally trick which on July 14, 1724, he played me before the entire council in Hamburg, he who in Amsterdam was already branded by the name of being suspicious; The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 167 who on the voyage let me languish; who on board ship often treated me not as his pastor, but as a Negro, perhaps while I was sick; who distributed the most expensive food to the sailors, pretending that it was done for the honor of the congregation; who, having forced himself upon the congre- gation, presented a claim which was larger than the sum total of his col- lections; who, making no progress with that, drew up an account of which he himself said that it would keep them in the dark, and that he had already taken care of himself; who, having obtained receipts for everything, will not show them; who, being questioned about his account, will not answer; who, standing ashamed before his pastor, nevertheless dares to accuse him behind his back of wanting to detain the school money, against his better knowledge and that of the congregation; who thus brands his brethren behind their backs (which I do not mention in order not to stir up the brethren) that they are entirely robbed of their honor and that their repu- tation is injured and damaged in a most thorough manner; who, exciting the Reformed ministers and the Reformed Consistory against his pastor and Consistory, tries to get from them, yes, from a private citizen, a certificate for his justification; who publicly proclaimed that everywhere God's Word was being preached; who, as long as people here have known him, has never attended the Lord's Supper. Yes, I ask your Reverences, deliberately, and ask your Reverences' kind instruction, whether I should admit such a man who undertakes this to the Lord's table, without his having confessed his hearty repentance therefor. God is my witness that on leaving the ship I said to him: "Sybrand, here, with this anchor, is dropped all that you have done to me," and that on land I would hold no grudge against him on account of his rudeness, the more so, as I regard Sybrand's enmity as a deprivation of all that, being abandoned by men, could give me human consolation. Rut his anger is too apparent and too well known among us in the city and too violent. 5. The Right Reverend Consistory further express their displeasure with us for showing so little appreciation of the services of Sybrand, who aban- doned his livelihood, traveled for more than two years on land and sea, risked his health, disbursed his own money, ran great risks, provided a virtu- ous pastor, and also collected the means thereto, for us, who do not allow him the least recognition for his trouble, also accuse him of having made up a false and fraudulent account, of having charged too much for the expenses of the voyage and of having entered some items twice, and of having in that way defrauded the church; consequently, that he now, to his great loss, has been obliged to come over for the second time to justify 168 The New York Public Library himself and his doings before your Reverences. We hope that we shall be as fortunate as Sybrand in being heard by your Reverences. In the first place, we heartily acknowledge his good services, and he cannot have been regarded as highly in Amsterdam, Hamburg and elsewhere — because he has boasted, as is also true, according to his promise, that he undertook all this at his own expense — as his fame was among us and other denominations, before, on his return, he revealed what his object was. He retracts his promise, he thus loses his fame; the money he takes too; what, then, remains to be acknowledged? He abandoned his livelihood! Far from it, his place of destination lay along on his way. To follow the sea is his livelihood and thereby he talked us into letting him go, as he said and it was known that he lost nothing thereby. So we thought, well, we cannot lose anything thereby either. He has traveled more than two years. Perhaps he will travel still longer and that without asking us, as he has done also during those two years. Suppose he had stayed out ten years I Should we have to support him for ten years? And how should we have fared if he had acted with the other collections as he did with the Copenhagen ones? He risked his health and ran great risks. Being brought up as a seafaring man, he probably knew that when he undertook the voyage. Nobody forced him; he forced himself on us to run the great risk. Furthermore, that is only what is called ex musca elephantum. If he was sick on the voyage, he had himself cured for our money. Hence come the fl. 30 in one month in Hamburg. He disbursed his own money. Perhaps he says so. But who has seen his own money? Did he not deposit his money in Holland? One can account for his having had £40 or £50 of his own. Who is acquainted with his habits will almost be able to tell what has become of it. Having not yet been very long at Hamburg, he took up fl. 72 of the collection money. All the other trips he made, not only without spending any money of his own, but by spending the entire collections and thereby paying himself for his trouble, since, in visiting his sister at Copenhagen, his expenses were defrayed, and yet he talks about all the money in his purse. Most of the money, which he puts down as his own, was entrusted to him by us to buy some supplies for us. On his return he hardly gave that back in dirty paper, with a discount at that, according to the saying: Siquis quid reddit, magna habenda est gratia. Some of it he also paid, for instance, in brick, which he had bought for the pastor's house and which were entered as such at the custom-house in England. He provided us with a virtuous pastor and also with difficulty collected the means thereto. We think that we have to thank God rather than him, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 169 and godly souls, who can claim reward from God, rather than him, therefor. If he collected money for himself, he deceived us and all men. Furthermore, we are charged with not having allowed him the least recog- nition for his trouble. We have in our preceding letter given our reasons for that, namely, that he did all this for us without our having promised him anything. He promised to do so, because he knew that we had no means. On the other hand, we think that we did well as long as he remained without having to pay expenses, expecting that his trouble taken for the glory of God would also be rewarded by God. For what is his merit in having brought us a pastor who on such a small salary must suffer want and who is not guaranteed that it will be raised? And what is his merit of having collected money for the church which shares the money with him and which, without sharing the remainder of his account, is not yet safe from getting crushed and being permanently destroyed. 7. Finally, we are censured for accusing him: (1) of having made up a false and deceitful account. This is Sybrand's own confession. It also has the appearance of it. If he did not understand the reduction [to Dutch money], why did he not deliver H. L. Brand's account? That was reduced, though it was not so artful. Veritatis simplex via est, multiplex pravi. The more confused his account was, the easier it was for him to deceive. His deceit also appears clearly from the fact that at first he refused to hand in the account, wishing first to have a promise of going out again by the first ship, and then adding that he wished to be paid only for his trouble. The congregation, insisting on an account whereby he would be cleared once for all, received an account which, according to his confession was made up in such a way that they would feel the punishment of their in- gratitude. This account being at first not passed, but then, through the inter- position of the Domine, being allowed, he set up a new claim, under the pretense of wishing to give the amount to the church, if it were built within three years and each of the elders gave the same amount. So that it clearly appears that the money deposited in Holland held him bewitched and that he was not immediately to sail again to fetch the other collections made him crazy, so that he did not know what he said. And when we appealed to the Consistory at Amsterdam, he dared to say that he had no judge in this world. Yes, his consent being desired, he would say neither yes nor no. He also made great efforts to obtain other mediators, until he finally got ready, thinking: hac non successit, alia aggrediemur via. Sed tanquam socex peribit indicio. 8. We are censured for having accused him: (2) of having put the trav- eling expenses too high, and of having counted some items twice. This last 170 The New York Public Library statement we cannot prove and from what words of our letter it appears, we cannot say either. The word "deceit" involves a good deal, although we have no clear proof of it. They say it was only to stigmatize Sybrand. 9. But as to the first, of having put the traveling expenses too high, we must confess that [accusation] is only the fault of our Domine, for we are incapable of judging of that, in addition to the fact that we have been kept entirely in the dark by Sybrand. However, we thought the person best quali- fied to give testimony thereof is our Domine, who was with him and knew how to dig up other circumstances from his diary; who had also openly praised Sybrand's services in order that they might be recognized, so that he was once asked whether the man from Macedonia had also received so much recompense. But Dom. Berkenm[eyer], seeing his stubborness, learn- ing our innocense, knowing that Sybrand had jotted down all trifles and on board had daily been busy getting his account ready, and that everywhere such caution was used, let himself be moved to open our eyes a little. He appeals particularly: 1. To Sybrand's voyage from London to Botterdam, for which the passage is fl. 9, and Sybrand charges fl. 33. 2. The trip from Botterdam to Amsterdam, for which he charges fl. 7. 3. That from Lubeck to Copenhagen, on which he claims to have spent the entire amount of his collections, fl. 240, although he lived free at his sister's house, and the affidavit of the famous Doctor Theol. D. . . ., in Copenhagen, dated March 26, 1725, also shows that he lived very economically. That does not agree with Sybrand's account. So that either Sybrand is branded by his account, or this Doctor D. . . . appears to have made an affidavit on his conscience which contradicts Sybrand's account. 4. The trip to Texel, for which Sy- brand charges fl. 18, which he collected in cash, but Dom. Berkenmeyer happens to remember that in going on board, he had about fl. 10 left. Un- expectedly coming upon my diary of 1725, I find entered under Jan. 28, that I delivered the Texel cash to Joh. Sybrand, there being left over fl. 8 in Holland money, 2 drittel 78 and 2 shillings sterling. Is that called "spent fl. 18"? And as to Sybrand's word, referring to the fact that in Downs the mate delivered fresh provisions on board, since in addition the Domine paid fl. 5 — 5 stivers out of his own purse for them, this case is pertinent, to show how little can be depended on Sybrand's offered oath (as he well knew that according to the law of our country he may not take an oath on that ) . When in Texel he had bought meat, he himself acknowledged to the Domine that he did not know whether he had paid the money. However, when the 78 Drittel; a German coin of the value of y$ Thaler. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 171 man followed us aboard and demanded the money, 59 stivers, Sybrand first tried to prove with his cash, and when this failed, to confirm under oath, that he had paid the money, although he could not say whether he had given it to a man, woman, or child. The Domine, in order not to have him branded, yes, injured and torn, having paid the money out of his own purse and afterwards demanded it of Sybrand, he laughed and said that even in spite of his beard he would not give it back. And that is not the only case. 5. In England, where Sybrand charges fl. 167 for customs and for expenses there and at sea. As to the first, we received a better clearance than in Holland, so that Sybrand criticised the Domine for making this known to Messrs. L[aasbye] and N[ieugaard], saying, one need not write everything so frankly. The expenses may be estimated from the fact that Sybrand slept on board and the Domine in a house, the latter having bought himself one meal a day. The expenses at sea were for 32 chickens, of which I must eat daily, cabbage, turnips, onions, beer, bread and butter. How much his clothes cost, the Domine says he does not know, nor how much exactly in gold and silver there was left over. For when the Domine spent any money, he changed it. As soon as we got ashore, the church officials had to clear the Domine's baggage. And Sybrand was so stubborn that he would not even give a tip to the cabin boys in the name of the Domine, who had to give it out of his own purse. Thus he held up the honor of his congregation! 10. We are censured for having accused him: (3) Of having thereby defrauded our church. This appears so and makes our hearts bleed. (4)0/ having forced him, to his great loss, now to come over for the second time and to justify himself. His trade is no other than "with the long pants" to earn his living. If he thereby suffers loss, that is his affair. He is now going to make his third voyage. How can we keep him free from loss? Further- more, since your Reverences wish to uphold your decision, he has certainly won more than he would have gained from the Consistory of the Reformed Church here, to whom he had appealed. For some time after that, when those ministers accidentally saw his account, they were quite amazed. 11. Proceeding to excuse Joh. Sybrand, your Reverences state: 1. That you have made careful inquiries regarding his person and conduct. 2. That you find that he has in good faith listed and duly accounted for the sums collected by him. 3. That his confused and badly arranged account prejudice him as little as the counter account, submitted under correction and based on an average. 4. That Christian love commands us to believe that he who is found faithful in rendering an account of the moneys collected by him, 172 The New York Public Library must also have acquitted himself faithfully in entering and keeping book of the expenses paid and profits made by him. 12. Out of respect and reverence for you, Right Reverend Messieurs, we let all this rest as settled, what is still in question, saying only: Quilibet prae sumitur bonus donee probetur contrarium. If we have not proved the con- trary, we must depend more on your Reverences than on ourselves and we agree with your statement that for so far as you know and we know from your testimony, he is to be regarded as an honest man. 13. Finally, we see from the latter part of your Reverences' letter: (1) that your Reverences have had another account drawn up in proper form; (2) that you have deducted nothing from the traveling expenses and dis- bursements; (3) that you have condemned Sybrand to pay the costs of bringing over the pastor, amounting to fl. 150; (4) that once for all you have granted him a sum of fl. 300 - ( a ) in consideration of the period of more than 20 months, which he has spent with much trouble, danger, incon- venience and neglect of his business; (b) in consideration of the heavy expenses and loss which he must incur on account of this second voyage back and forth to Amsterdam and New York; (5) that your Reverences desire that, having calmy considered the fairness of this your decision, we shall acquiesce therein and live with Joh. Sybrand in a Christian brotherly manner, in expectation whereof you pray God that He may please to bless us and to make us prosper. 14. The account, ad ( 1 ) . The account sent us is exceedingly neat. But we may be permitted to ask how it is to be interpreted that under Monsr. Johannes Sybrand's Debit is entered: for books paid here for the Domine fl. 25. -, and under his Credit: By cash received from Dom. Berkenmeyer at New York. Dom. Berkenmeyer thinks that since he gave those fl. 25 to Sybrand in Holland and they are now deducted from our collection money, Sybrand should turn over the same. Sybrand says no, holding the bookkeeper re- sponsible for having written New York instead of Holland. 15. Furthermore, whether those amounts which Joh. Sybrand spent out- side of Holland and, according to Holland exchange, has entered at the end of his account, are also, to the amount of fl. 1310 - 19 st., deducted from the total amount of the collections entered according to Holland exchange, and should not first have been reduced also? For example: Joh. Sybrand collected in Kiel, Copenhagen, Liibeck, 119 Rth. 2 Ver. 6 Sch., reduced to fl. 234 - 7 st. He enters this for expenses as fl. 240. How can that pass? And in the same way, other items, which, having been spent in light money, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 173 he is to get back according to Holland exchange, should be reduced to the amount of fl. 596. Account ad 2. If nothing can or is to be deducted from the traveling expenses, we acquiesce therein, since we asked your Reverences' deci- sion in the matter, and still do so, after we have more clearly expressed ourselves. Account ad 3. Sybrand having offered to pay the passage of the pastor, the fact that he is condemned to do so, is good. Nam omne promissum cadit in debitum. On the other hand, we have also fulfilled our promise to pay for the Domine's baggage. But how he can claim for that fl. 150, so much for personal traveling expenses, and in addition a recognition of fl. 300, passes our understanding. For thereby he, who is bound to assume extraneous expenses, is shown to have nothing to claim for himself. 17. Account ad 4. As to the fl. 300 granted to him, we take the liberty to object that we are not bound to allow him what was not only not promised to him, but in the first instance even denied him. It was not our fault that he was out more than 20 months. He knows best what prevented him from returning, or drove him to sail from one place to the other and to cruise back and forth. We did not set him any limits. If he took everything upon his shoulders, he did no more than he was inclined to do or was able to execute. We were not able to pay him for the voyage to Holland and he wanted to make such long voyages at our expense. What has he accomplished by his longest voyages? The moneys collected in Kiel, Copenhagen and Liibeck, he spent entirely, without leaving a bit. What is to be expected from Holstein may be seen from the affidavit of Doctor Durkoop. If he has had trouble, he has also had honor, the like of which he will not gain again in his lifetime. That trouble any other person would take too, to visit his friends at the expense of others. Has he suffered any danger? If in his life- time he suffers no greater danger than in this case, he does well. Inconven- ience? That does not appear from his account. Of the amount spent by him another man, who is more than a sailor or a collection agent, can live very well. Neglect of his business? It was not his business to bother about a pastor. But it so happens that Sybrand, following the sea, could, without neglecting his business, have sent us a pastor from Holland. If not, he could have returned and have followed his trade until another voyage. Aside from this he had means of making a profit, but he always replied that his business was to procure a pastor. This must now be understood to mean that by calling a pastor he filled his pockets. Neglect? Sybrand will wish every two years to have such a fair. For here he boasts that he made so [much] money that 174 The New York Public Library he intends to become naturalized and to buy land, and that he does not have to work any more. 18. Your Reverences take into account his expenses of this second hard voyage. It is true, he went to England and came back, serving before the mast. Therefore, he had no expenses, but gain. Perhaps the voyage would not have been so hard if he had gone over as Captain. Between London and Amsterdam he can hardly have spent fl. 40, as in 1723. Some stories about that came to our ears. And how can we guard him against expense, or give him money therefor, if he again undertakes a voyage? He may go to Holland, or to the West-Indies, or elsewhere; he must work, he must risk his life and run risks. 19. Account ad 5. Your Reverences desire us to view the decision with calmness, to acquiesce therein and to be satisfied with it, and live with Joh. Sybrand in a Christian-brotherly manner. With all our heart. If he shows himself to be like a brother, we shall the more willingly accept him the greater his manifestations of faithful brotherhood, which he has always promised. The fulfilment may come at last. Christian love hopes for the best from our brother. Let him who makes any promise, also fulfil it. But whoever deceives in making promises, will the more greatly fail in the performance. As to acquiescing in your Reverences' decision, we do not deny that it is fair and just to acknowledge such services. That is to say, in thesi, non in hypo- thesi, nam una circumstantia totum variat jus. Here there are more. And, at all events, our congregation would rather see that the money collected and given for the church and the support of the pastor were turned over to those to whom it belongs and for the purpose for which it was given. On the contrary, let Mons. Sybrand present his claim to those of the consistory who sent him out. For he and we stand under Authorities who give him rights and who can make us do right, although all that we do and have done about this protest is, as your Reverences have seen and acknowledge, done with the best intentions and out of zeal for the welfare of our congregation. No blame attaches to us on that account, for, to have led a pastor into mis- fortune and to expect great thanks for that, and as a reward for what has been done to take away the money that was given for the benefit of his congregation, are things which it has been difficult for us to forgive brother Sybrand. 20. Nevertheless, if it pleases your Reverences to confirm and to execute the judgment rendered by your Reverences, we, on our part, submit thereto, according to our promise and the attestation granted to Joh. Sybrand on June 5, 1726. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 175 For we must believe that your Reverences understand the matter better than we. And if your Reverences will seek to promote the best interests of our congregation, we shall do well. May God Almighty grant us the mercy that your Reverences may take our misery to heart, great and deadly as it is. The growth of our congregation which your Reverences wish us comes from God and your Reverences, whereas we, on the other hand, and our Albany brethren and the Germans served by our pastor, having neither church, nor school, nor any other teacher, nor books for singing, praying, or learning to read, must deteriorate in a few years and see our religion before our eyes die out in our children, in case we are not soon and powerfully assisted. At least, we hope that the Right Reverend Consistory of Amsterdam will not cast any unwillingness on us and our congregation, but let be happy enough to be able to boast that we have been helped by you, Reverend Messieurs, more than by all others. God rewards those who do good and do not weary thereof. We therefore commend your Reverences to God's protection and us and our congregation to your Reverences' favor and affec- tion and remain, Right Reverend, Very Wise Gentlemen, Very Affectionate Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ, Your Reverences' humble and obliged servants, The Consistory of the Protestant Lutheran Congregation in New York cujus nomine subscripsit et sigillo Consistorii obsig. Wilh. Christ. Berkenmeyer /. A. C. P. Neo-Ebor. Read at our Consistory meeting, June 5th. Dated June 10, 1726. Atnst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio America. o « « LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutheran Consistory at New York. June 24, 1726 Reverend and Much Beloved Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ: Your Reverences' letters dated Oct. 21/Nov. 1, [1725], and Nov. 1/12 ditto, written by the Rev. Mr. Berkenmeyer, your pastor, duly came to hand, from which we received detailed information about the condition of your congregation, which we heartily wished were in a better state. We hope that you all, leaders as well as members, and every one of you, will hereafter do his best thereto. 176 The New York Public Library As to the dispute between your Reverences and Mons. r Johannes Sy- brands, that is a matter which has been settled by our Consistory; we there- fore refer you to the report which will be in your hands. We hope that your Reverences have overcome the trouble caused by van Deuren, as we praise your prudent conduct in having prevented such an unlettered and, as appears from all circumstances, incompetent man, who does not understand the basis of religion and to whom it is all the same what, where and to whom he preaches, from conducting the services in your church, as he must also be prevented from doing in the absence of Mr. Berkenmeyer, as a man who has not been lawfully called, who is not found sound in doctrine and not lawfully ordained, cannot be a pastor or administer the sacraments. Such a man ran, but was not sent (Jer., 23:21), and consequently from the preaching of such persons no good can be ex- pected, and no man is to take this honor unto himself, but he that is called thereto of God (understand, present day medium), Hebr. 5:4, and there- fore, your Reverences will do wisely in keeping aloof from that man, and also to keep him out if he should in any way seek to force himself in. We have also learned the dilapidated condition of your church. We hope that the love for religion among you is sufficiently great that you will take care that the house of God, the place where you come together to hear God's Word and to fulfill your religious duties and show your gratitude to God, be put into proper condition and be improved and kept in repair, so as to remain free from the threatened danger of caving in. Your Reverences must not abstain from giving support to religion; you must remember that all blessings must come from God and that every one is in duty bound to return to God something of his own. This is done when with good king Josiah we re- pair the breaches of the house of the Lord ( II Kings, 22 ) , and according to the prophecy of the prophet Haggai, not let the house of God stand idle, but build up the same, for if we have our heart set more on our temporal interests and wish to build our houses first and fit them out more luxuriously than the house of God, God will lay waste our houses; we must think of the con- tents of the 127th Psalm. Your Reverences will, as we hope, also take care that Mr. Berkenmeyer, your pastor, is properly provided with the necessities of life. Those among you who are rich and blest by God ought before others to excell in charity and above all see to it that, because he who holds the pastoral office can do no other work, such a man, sowing the spiritual seed, also reaps the bodily harvest, as the laborer is worthy of his hire, and it would in the future, in the case of need, be impossible to recommend and to send to your Reverences The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 177 faithful and virtuous men, if we learned that your Reverences are not caring properly for their support, which by many can easily be done without being burdensome. Always remember the admonition of Paul: Live at peace and with one another; do nothing through contention or out of vain glory, but become perfect through the bond of love, and the God of peace and the Lord from whom all blessings flow shall be with you. As to the dubia raised by your Reverences' pastor, serves the following: Quoad 1. Since the mother listened to the advice given, it is well, but otherwise the child should have been baptized by your Reverence. 2. Such punishment, that a mother who has a child born out of wedlock must be present, is very hard, and such waiting until she has recovered cannot be justified, as the baptism of children is necessary: (1) necessitate mandati; ( 2 ) necessitate medii; ( 3 ) necessitate fructus; and, therefore, one can with a good conscience baptize a child that is brought from another congregation, especially: (a) when the preacher is not orthodox, or not lawfully called and ordained, (b) when he will not do so, except on such hard conditions, as no preacher on his own authority may exercise such church discipline, the same being altogether too hard, even if it were de- cided by the whole consistory to do so, because: (1) the child must not be punished for the iniquity of his parents (Ezech., 18:4, 20; Deut, 24:14). ( 2 ) Withholding baptism is a punishment for the child, for one deprives it meanwhile of the merits of Christ; one leaves it in a state of unbelief, since baptism is a means of planting faith in the hearts of children and thereby enabling them to accept Christ (Gal., 3:26, 27). (3) One deprives the child of the right that belongs to children born of Christian parents (Acts, 2:39). (4) One acts against the command of Christ, whose will it is that the chil- dren shall come unto Him, and who himself rebuked his disciples because they tried to prevent it (Mark, 10:13, 14, 15). As to the church discipline of fallen persons who have caused public scandal to the congregation, attention should be paid: (1) to the laws that are in effect in the congregation; (2) to ancient customs which are observed in the place of laws; (3) to similar examples. If it is a law, it ought to be observed until it is repealed by such an ecclesiastical body as made it. If it is an ancient custom, it can be abolished by an ecclesiastical body. If they are only examples, they only show what was done, and not what must be done. Furthermore, a consistory always reserves the power, by a majority of votes, to break laws and to make laws. Add hereto, that the church discipline, affecting in some cases the persons as well as the facts, is not always, and should not always be, exercised with the same harshness 178 The New York Public Library and extreme rigor, as is to be seen in the case of the woman in adultery brought to Christ (John, 8:1-11); the committer of incest at Corinth (II Corinth., 2:5, 6, 7, 8); and the fact that the first Christian Church has always used discretion and circumspection in the matter; especially, such church discipline must never be applied to one out of hatred for his person. Dubium 2. Ad 1. Especially of children in one of your own congre- gations, but also, according to circumstances mentioned above, in other congregations. 2. Even of Reformed persons, as many Reformed persons, in casu necessitatis, rather have their children baptized, and consider it better to have them baptized, by a Lutheran pastor, than to let them die unbaptized, concluding that according to the nature of the religion of the New Testament the administration of the sacraments is not restricted to a certain place (John, 4:23, 24; Matth., 18:20; Tim., 2:8). 3. As far as children of Indian parents are concerned, if the latter still are and remain in the blindness of heathenism and would keep their children after baptism in their care and under their authority, these cannot be baptized, but if such children at and after their baptism become Christians, to be brought up and instructed by them, they can and must be baptized, as such children, by right of cession, adoption, gift or purchase, or being acquired in any other way, can and must be regarded as personal property. Dubium 3. As we said under dubium 1, about the careful use of church discipline, as no personal authority must be exercised and that it is better to pass a church resolution about such a case. Dubium 4. As it is impossible to foresee all cases that may occur in a congregation, it is impossible to make any fixed rule as to how far the church discipline or punishment must be applied in any given case. As the circum- stances of time, facts and persons aggravate or lighten the trespasses, a consistory or church council of the place where trespasses occur, or before whom the case is brought, must carefully investigate the same and act according to their findings, but always see to it quod poena semper minor sit delicto, as our Church Ordinance of 1676, art. 12, says. Dubium 5. The seal is not material as to the credibility of the ordinance, as it is only customary with us to have the secretary sign nomine omnium. Dubium 6. Recause the Reformed here in this country in the formulary ask the witnesses a question and demand an answer that they acknowledge that the doctrine taught in their church is the only saving religion and therefore the Lutherans thereby condemn their own Confession, this causes si non falsatatum erroneam conscientiam et scrupulosam, and therefore this article should be well impressed upon them, for he who, doubting The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 179 whether he may do a thing nevertheless does it, sins as much as he who deliberately does evil, although the latter sin is greater. The Reformed can, in baptizing Lutherans, act as witnesses without scruple, as they confess and accept that on which the Lutherans baptize, namely, the symbolum Apostolicum. Dubium 7. The submitting of questions to the witnesses, after the per- formance of the sacrament, is omitted in our and other churches, but added in some, according to the custom and disposition of the congregation. One cannot well oblige any one to promise something that is against his conscience, and as every one likes to instruct children who are under his supervision in his religion, it is to be presumed that such promises will not be kept by Reformed sponsors, and if the sponsors are Lutherans, it clearly follows from the nature of what has been said above that they will be brought up as Lutherans, and those questions may therefore be omitted, as they do not belong ad essentiam sacramenti, and one must as little as possible impose a burden on the conscience which gives occasion for scruples, for which reason a previous examination to clear the conscience is also considered unnecessary, as is to be seen in other things (Rom., 14:13; I Corinth., 8). As to the last dubium, With the consistory to pass a resolution about that. Herewith go the requested books, which, with the expenses, cost one hundred and thirty-five guilders and eight stivers and have been paid for by Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard. Meanwhile, after hearty greetings, we remain, Your Reverences' very affectionate friends and fellow-brethren in Christ. By order of this Consistory, Amsterdam, June 24, 1726. Caspabus van den Broeck, h.c. Secrts. [Addressed:] To the Rev. Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 4th of Sep- tember, Anno 1726. There was opened a letter from our congregation at New York, dated June 10, 1726. On account of its prolixity, Ds. van Garel was requested to 180 The New York Public Library make a brief abstract thereof and to communicate the same to this assembly two weeks from today. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 389. o o o MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 18th of Sep- . , . tember, Anno 1726 There was read the letter from New York, opened two weeks ago, replying very prolixly to ours of the 6th of March of this year, and not taking very well the letter of our secretary which he wrote in the name of this Consistory. They accuse Johannes Sybrands on several counts, debate his account and, being dissatisfied with our decision, request alteration thereof, but [declare] that, in case we persist in our decision, they will then acquiesce therein. The letter was referred to Ds. Meyer and Messrs. [Laasbye and] Nieu- gaard, to reply to the same, and they were requested to submit their draft first to this assembly. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, pages 390, 391. o o o LETTER from the Rev. Wilhelm C. Berckenmeyer to the Amsterdam Con- sistory. November 18, 1726 Very Reverend, Very Honorable Gentlemen, Much Esteemed Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ: Having returned from Albany, where I spent three months, I found your Reverences' letter to our consistory, together with a small box of books paid for by Messrs. Laasbye and Nieugaard from our church money and sent over by Captain Jacob Searly. On the 12th of November I thereupon opened the letter at our meeting and learned how your Reverences were good enough to reply to my letters of November 1 and 12, 1725. The dispute between our consistory and Mons. Joh. Sybrand your Rev- erences consider decided and settled, for which reason we are referred to the report in our hands. Well, the matter has been further represented to your Reverences, but remains recommended to God and your Reverences, in whose decision we shall cheerfully acquiesce. Further, your Reverences have approved our conduct toward van Deuren, and urgently recommended to our congregation the upbuilding of our church The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 181 and the proper care of myself. That was highly necessary and has comforted me to some extent, but thereby I am still helped little. Many could make the providing easy, but where are these many people? The increase of our congregation depends on it that a few be helped. The ground has been rooted up and, being left without help, I am as called to view with them the total decline that is taking place before our eyes. In short, the congregation is scattered; it must be brought together. It is rent and must be reunited. The poor condition has caused many to withdraw; many are still hesitating and so situated that they are neither fish nor flesh. And those who are thus situ- ated wish others to be like them. The taste for God's Word is lost, the rev- erence for the soul has disappeared. The preaching of God's Word needs to be restored before admonition can do any good. Satan is diligent to prevent this. Salvation must come from the side of God, a salvation of souls who neither understand nor wish to know what serves to give them peace. As to those at New York, I hope that the repairing of our church can be taken hold of as soon as we can make an estimate of what is left of our collec- tions. But the Albany congregation, which is scattered over the city and the surrounding country, cannot be put upon its feet without help. As the Re- formed showed such eagerness to help us, I took up a collection, which amounts to £150. However, we do not dare to begin with that and, conse- quently, the promised moneys and building materials are not forthcoming. This is the more to be pitied, as there was a chance here to establish a school. What could be more necessary and beneficial? The grown-up people know nothing, as they cannot read; therefore, they cannot teach the young. They only hear a preacher one-half of the year and during that half year it often happens that they cannot even come, especially as those are easily pre- vented who are not eager to come. And how Satan knows how to take advantage of the schism which occurred before my arrival, to stir up my congregation and to oppose all that is good, cannot be expressed. Therefore, if it should please your Reverences to believe my word and to hear my humble prayer, I would ask your Reverences to assist me herein with advice and by deed, as your Reverences may deem to be serviceable and feasible. Governor Burnet said recently, Now it is time for the Lutherans. And who can say whether there will be another time to help us. This gentleman is so much inclined toward us and convinced of our poverty, that he himself has started a subscription among the most prominent persons of the city, to be applied to my salary. Therefore, I fear not for myself, knowing well who has called me. But I consider it my duty to reveal our need to your 182 The New York Public Library Reverences, who are able to help us, and to seek your help. Surely, it will be pleasing to God and serve brethren in the faith at Amsterdam to assure their salvation propter Christum, qui caput nostrum est, cujusque sumus membra. Finally, I gratefully accept the instructions concerning some ecclesiastical matters. After having carefully consulted chap. 3, art. 2 of the General Church Ordinance, I have not refused to baptize any child, and among them five, some of whom were three years old, who by the minister at Schenectady, Esopus and Albany were prevented from being baptized. Furthermore, noth- ing will be more pleasing to me than always to follow your Reverences' counsel and orders, proving myself, as I sign myself, Gentlemen, Your Reverences' obedient and dutiful servant, New York, November 18, 1726. W ' Q Berkenmeyer [Addressed:] To the Very Reverend Lutheran Consistory at Amsterdam. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 19th of March, Anno 1727. There was read a letter from Ds. Wilhelm Christopher Berkenmeyer, pas- tor of our congregation at New York, dated November 18, Anno 1726, com- plaining about the bad condition of the congregation and the school at Albany and requesting our advice and help in the matter. The letter was referred to the elders. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 408. LETTER from Rev. Wilhelm C. Berckenmeyer to the Amsterdam Con- sistory. November 1, 1728 Very Reverend, Highly Learned, Estimable Gentlemen: Very kind Friends and Fellow Rrethren in Christ: I consider it my duty to place before your Reverences' eyes an account of the van Dieren disturbance among us, for which you yourselves furnished me material after I had given your Reverences information about this man, which is substantiated by the documents of which this writing is composed. Scribendi cacoethes has in no sense taken possession of me, but I had to resort to this means and to incur this expense, because I knew of no other The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 183 way to help myself and to maintain my position against the untruths of this van Dieren, whose word is regarded as gospel truth; also, to have the Chris- tian world as witness of my innocence in regard to the corruption of our doctrine which threatens to affect our successors, and, if possible, to regain my congregation and to deliver them from this renegade, in order not to be overthrown by intestina dissidia. I especially wish to communicate this to your Reverend Consistory in order that your Reverences may know in what difficulties I have been placed by God Almighty, in being thus obstructed in my office and duty to seek the honor of God and the preservation of our pure doctrine for the good of the souls that are in part entrusted to me. If your Reverences do not disapprove my conduct, I pray that it may please your Reverences to console and advise me, in order that I may not falter. Further, that your Reverences will please take to heart and consider into what misery our congregations have been plunged by these van Dieren disturbances and, if necessary, support me with some assistance and by a charitable gift advance the building of our church at Loonenburg [now Athens], in order that the feelings of our Albany congregation may once more be reconciled. For with many, their not liking the church building there is an excuse for not giving anything toward it and for not doing as they promised they would. They will come all right as soon as it is finished. Others have a grudge against the neighbors of the church; these must abstain when others are won over. Here it is appropriate for me, if it does not bore your Reverences, to inform you more fully how matters stand with the Albanians. Most of the members of the Albany congregation dwell in the country, about 4, 5, 6, or 7 German miles from the city, on both sides of the Hudson River. It hap- pened for that reason that the congregation, having for more than 12 years not had any pastor (who otherwise, for the half year, had a house in the city) let the church and the house fall into ruin, the church being still to some extent kept in repair by the English, until they built a church of their own, of which we at present in turn make use on two Sundays in the year. My predecessor, for that reason, held services in the country, traveling also twice to the city. Yes, when he lodged, now at this, then at that person's house, after it had been offered to him free of charge, he held service then here and then there. Whoever cared to come, came. When it came to paying, they gave the Domine the collection money to take with him, and what he came short was paid out of the Albany church treasury, obtained at one time by will, until the fund was exhausted. During the last few years, before he had bought his own land, on which the congregation intended to build 184 The New York Public Library a house for him, on the other side of Loonenburg, he lodged at Loonenburg, in the same house which the first winter was assigned to me there by the congregation for my pay, to lodge therein and to hold service. As long as those who used to come together in the woods to read a sermon were still living, when every one who was caught attending a Lutheran meeting was fined 100 guilders, it still went well, but shortly before Falkner's death, about 7 years ago, a fire of discord began to smolder, which broke out after his death. For by issuing the new call, New York angered the Albanians, wishing to join hands with Hakkensak. Hakkensak was no less affronted by the re- jection of their consent, before the call was sent away. It thus happened that Albany chose the old Falkner, 79 a doctor of medicine, and Hakkensak took van Diren. Falkner was discreet enough not to accept the call until he had heard news from Holland. Therefore, the Albanians, although they had fought about it, calmed down so much more easily. The reconciliation took place and the general rejoicing, even of the Reformed, and their promise to assist us, encouraged us to think of a church. Every one was willing, think- ing one should strike the iron while it was hot. The first question was, where was the money to come from. A list was made of how much each person was willing to contribute in money or in materials. Likewise in day labor. The rest we would seek to raise by collections in and outside the country. Outside the country, everything to date turned out as if the Lord were not with us. The King was to receive our supplication in Hanover and he died on the way. Hamburg seeks delay, because the request comes too soon after another. The London churches were asked to lend assistance by the New York church, which was to have been built already 23 years ago. Inside the country, things went a little bit better, but only poorly. After I began by subscribing £10 myself, others came with one or two pieces of eight, a timber, etc. Some of those who first thought of [combining] with the Loonenburg place, have the second time come as high as £6, so that we have collected about £90, and £80 are still outstanding, which can be collected, on condition that they are promised [to be used] for the city church, if within Albany another church can be erected, for which about £300 are required. The second question was, where the country church was to be located. The congregation could not agree on this. Thereupon it was left to me and three elders to choose which of five places I liked best. I chose the site, which was free and offered for nothing, whereabout most of the people lived and where they could come winter and summer, and where there was room enough, up to 15 morgens [30 acres] of land, to put a house for the pastor 79 Daniel Falckner, brother of Justus, at that time a pastor in East New Jersey. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 185 and the schoolmaster and to build a school. Some of those four parties im- mediately showed dissatisfaction, especially those who had been opposed to calling a pastor from Holland. But the congregation having come together again, it was shown and proved that the place at Loonenburg was the most suitable and, on the contrary, that the disputed site, which all the dissatisfied persons chose, was ill-suited and could not be had for less than £300, nor without perpetual obligations; yes, without every one looking out for his own interest in connection with it. It was thereupon unanimously decided to build a church-house at Loonenburg, in which the Domine could live and hold services until it was seen what good news came from the old countries to build a church and schools. This was done last year, and what was still lacking was to be completed this fall, since the Lutherans in Curacao have still promised us a present. But one party, of about three households, changed their minds and became so embittered that they swore they would never come to church, nor have anything to do with the Domine. They induced many Reformed to withdraw their pledges, so that I had to travel through the country twice. They finally insisted, without those in the city desiring it, that I should stay three months in Albany, preferring to go 6 rather than 3, or 2 rather than \ x / 2 German miles to church. Not being able to get this, they bound themselves to keep van Diren, whom they have for 8 days at one side, and for 8 days at the other side of the river, at the same time that I am above, giving him three times as much as they have promised, but have never given me, although Gov. Burnet told me that I should, and also could, compel them by law to pay me, if I do not choose to wait for their conversion. Very Reverend Gentlemen, I do not desire that you take pity on my misery. Being convinced that with an honest heart I have sought to do God's work, I shall suffer for it all that God wants me to suffer. But this I pray, and pray with the utmost fervor of my soul, that your Reverences may please to sup- port and promote the work of God against Satan's work and opposition. It is here before our eyes. For the youth in this country are not being looked after and could not be looked after either, because the people dwell far apart and, moreover, are mixed as to nationality, as well as of many different religions. When I asked the children [and young people] from 20 to 30 years [of age] about the short Catechism, the parents asked whether even a Domine could know that. Through God's blessing I have on week days and Sundays, also in the woods, brought as many as care to come so far that they take a different view. And in addition to the fact that in this way church services could decently be held, I have written to Hamburg whether 186 The New York Public Library I might spend the school money outside of New York to appoint a lay reader here, who would keep school. I can now before God assure you that between New York and Albany no more suitable place for us could be found. Satan notices this and thus rages against it. Your Reverences may think, these people are not worth it. It is true. But God knows that in vain and in spite of ingratitude I must do a good deal to prevent that they stay away from church, neglect their souls and live like people without religion. On the contrary, I hope that when the people acquire any knowledge of God ( for truly, big and little, they are like beasts and do not know that we need God), the small group of Lutherans will grow, the more so, because on the other side religion is still less regarded and is kept up only for the sake of the world's opinion. But without help from abroad, my efforts and waiting are in vain. I therefore once more, for the sake of God and the crucified Jesus, pray that it may please your Reverences to weigh this and to care for our small flock, which in such way can increase so as to be able hereafter to help itself. I pray for the salvation of my soul. Meanwhile, God will give me strength to do what I can and not to falter, in order that, standing my watch, I shall pluck my soul like a fire-brand out of the fire, which must be my only and greatest reward, even if, left without human help, I should die in poverty. But then, it is certainly also done for the Lutherans in these parts; of that I am as certain as I live. Herewith, Very Reverend, Highly Learned, Estimable Gentlemen, Very kind Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ, I commend your Reverences and your Reverences' congregations and families to the gracious protection of God, remaining unto death, Your Reverences' in prayer, gratitude, and duty bound servant, xt v i xt U i ipmo W. C. Berkenmeyer New York, November 1, 1728. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 17th of May, Anno 1730. The Presiding Elder, Mr. Nieugaard, having announced that within eight or ten days a ship was to sail for New York, it was resolved to send to the consistory and Pastor Berkenmeyer an answer in reply to their last letter of November 15, 1728, Ds. van Garel and Mr. Nieugaard being appointed to draft said answer. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 474. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 187 LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to Rev. Wilhelm C. Bercken- meyer. May 26, 1730 Reverend Sir and dearly beloved Brother in Christ: We see from your honored letter of the first of November, 1728, from New York, and from the printed inclosures, that the sad dissensions in the congregations at New York, Albany and Hakkensak still continue, that they prevent the building of a church at a suitable place, as well as [the payment of] the promised monies, for which some have pledged themselves and every one is responsible, and that they also are the reason that van Dieren gains more adherence and thus, by pouring oil on the fire, makes it burn the more fiercely. It seems that our last letter has found little acceptance and it is difficult to perceive how your Reverence can be helped. That the best way is to practice forbearance, your Reverence yourself will have to acknowledge, and the sweeter our words are, the more easily we can influence another person's disposition. Your style of writing seems to us a little sharp and [the statement of] the facts somewhat prolix, so that we could have formed a much better understanding of the situation of your affairs if everything had been presented more distinctly, each item by itself being contained in a separate paragraph, whereas now, by digressions, the connection is destroyed and the sense and the meaning of words are obscured. Therefore, for the present, we cannot answer your letter more fully, the more so as the ship by which this will be sent is lying ready, but by the first ship we shall give further information, according to the conception which our Consistory has formed of your Reverence's case. Meanwhile, we recom- mend to your Reverence that you pursue the gentlest method and seek to win the hearts by friendliness. Toward the building of your Reverence's church our Consistory has re- solved to give one hundred guilders, which have been paid to Mr. Nieugaard to be remitted to your Reverence. Wherewith, after hearty greetings, we remain, Your Reverence's very affectionate friends and fellow-brethren in Christ. By order of the Consistory, Amsterdam, May 26, 1730. [Not si § ned] [Addressed:] The Rev. Mr. Willem Christoffel Berkenmeyer, Pastor at New York Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, pages 418, 419. 188 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 5th of July, Anno . . . 1730. Ds. van Garel read a letter drafted by his Reverence, pursuant to his in- structions by this Consistory under date of May 17th, to be sent to New York, Hakensak and Albany, which said letter was approved. It was further resolved to have the letter printed here and provisionally to send to the pastor and the consistory at New York two hundred copies, together with a written copy, with the request to distribute the printed copies among the consistories and members of the congregations adhering to our Unaltered Augsburg Confession, who may be found at New York, Hakensak, Albany, Loonenburg and elsewhere, and to recommend that the written copy be preserved in their church chest at New York, to serve, whenever necessary, as evidence that the printed copies were sent out by us. And Ds. van Garel took upon himself to have them printed and to revise the proof. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 478. o o o PRINTED LETTER of Advice from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Lutheran Churches at New York, Albany and Hackensack. July 5, 1730 To the Reverend Consistory and Members of the Congregations of the Un- altered Augsburg Confession at New York, Albany and Hakkensak, and all those whom this may in any way concern: Grace and the Peace of God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, Amen. Much beloved Fellow Brethren in Christ Jesus: We, members of the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at Amsterdam, had hoped that our extensive letter of June 24, 1726, would have had the desired effect of restoring among you the peace and quiet so necessary for the Church and that you all together, according to your duty, would have exerted yourselves according to your ability to continue and to bring to a desirable conclusion the building of your church, since you have been so strongly supported therein both by us and by other brethren in the Faith in Germany. Rut to our sorrow we learn from a letter of November 1, 1728, signed by the Rev. Willem Christoffel Rerkenmeyer, your lawful pastor, and from a printed writing of 1728, 80 with the same signature, that it is still far 80 Willem Christoffel Berkenmeyers . . . Herder- en Wachter-Stem, Aan de Hoog- en Neder- Duitsche Lutheriaanen in dese Gewesten, eenstemmig te zyn vertoont met twe Brieven en andere Redenen Lutherscher theologanten: aangaande 't Van Dierensche Beroep, en De Henkelsche Bevestiging. Nieuw-York: J. Peter Zenger, 1728. 150 + 12 [postscript] p. 4°. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 189 from being the case. And whereas our advice and counsel have been asked in this important matter, we do not wish to abstain from expressing to you our opinion and as far as it lies in our power to give you some sound advice, which we hope and doubt not, if the same be followed by you jointly, will have that glorious result that thereby God's most holy name will be glorified, mutual peace and quiet will be restored and the growth and prosperity of God's church among you will be promoted. We shall divide this letter into three parts, in order to express ourselves on each point separately and to make you better understand our meaning. First, then, worthy Brethren, know that owing to your being so far away, the situation of your churches was little known to us; also, that we did not know in what relationship the New York, Hakkensak, Albany and other churches stood to one another. Consequently, that we could only [p. 2] judge thereof from the commission given to Johannes Sybrands and from the written petitions and powers of attorney which the New York congregation sent to us under date of December 22, Anno 1723, to call, examine, ordain and send to them a pastor provided with proper testimonials, all of which was also done by us in the month of May, 1725. In their letter they stated that they doubted not but the other churches with which they were associ- ated would be satisfied with their procedure and be glad, as before and on the same basis, to help contribute to the salary and the support of the pastor whom we were charged to call, examine, ordain and send to them by virtue of a signed power of attorney and authorization as mentioned above. The same was also orally told us and confirmed in our meeting by Mons. Johannes Sybrands, authorized thereto by you. With the help of God we have exerted ourselves to the utmost of our ability to satisfy your desire. We have taken care of your churches; we have sent you, in the person of Mr. Berkenmeyer, a man who was found to be learned, sincere and faithful and who is endowed by God with gifts for the per- formance of his duties and the saving of your souls. And we have shown by our public and written testimonials that he was found to be orthodox in doctrine, well versed in the scriptures and capable of refuting the gain- say ers. Furthermore, we have for the maintenance and further strengthening of your churches given a generous donation and, in short, on the 26th of May, 1730, further promised one hundred guilders toward the building of your church at Loonenburg. We cannot see what more could have been demanded of us in this matter and what more we could have done about it. It therefore now seems all the more strange to us that there are so many among you who, with regard 190 The New York Public Library to the call issued by us, have shown dissatisfaction and who under various pretexts make void the mutual agreements and do not consider themselves bound to accept this Rev. Willem Berkenmeyer as their pastor and to con- tribute to his annual salary, under the bad pretext, namely, that the call was issued and sent out without their knowledge and consent and against their will. This dispute among you about this matter was unknown to us and also beyond the reach of our careful investigation. It seems to us that our trouble and love and the service rendered to you ought to be more appreciated by you and that you ought to thank God that He has sent you an orthodox pastor, so that you need not hunger and thirst for spiritual food and drink of the soul and need not wander from the north to the east to hear the Word of God. You ought to be glad that you have the same with you and among you and that you can hear the same for the good and salvation of your souls and [p. 3] that your children may be instructed in the discipline and admoni- tion of the Lord. We hope that you are already better advised in this matter and that you will hereafter fulfill your duty, prescribed to you by the Apostle Paul, Gal., 6:6, "Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things," in order that for the sowing of the spiritual things among you, your dear pastor may also reap from you the physical rewards for his support and to supply his needs. Secondly, regarding the building of your church, worthy Brethren, we had hoped that no dispute would arise among you. It seems to us that a free place, which is given for nothing and about which most of the people dwell, which is more accessible and where land is available to settle a pastor and a schoolmaster, is more suitable for the building of a church than another place which would cost much money and about which quarrels and disputes, claims and litigations may very easily arise or be unavoidable. And since you have already decided to build at Loonenburg and, with the blessing and help of God, have also begun to build there, we hope that you will carry on this excellent work with zeal, as the Jews, after their return from Babylon, under the supervision of Ezra and Nehemiah, built the temple and the sanctuary and rejoiced that they could once more go up to the house of the Lord. But, Brethren, remember that it is also part of your duty, for the building and improvement of God's house, the place of your spiritual meetings, to contribute gladly from your temporal means according to your ability. If every one discharges his duty to build God's house and with a glad heart and a liberal hand brings the offering which he devotes to God, he lays a The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 191 firm foundation for his bodily blessings, as God saith to Haggai the prophet, 2:19, 20, but if he does otherwise and regards the adornment of his own house and his own advantage, rather than God's house and God's glory, then a curse comes upon us, as we read in Haggai, 1:5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11. Follow, Brethren, follow in the footsteps of pious King Josiah, who caused the house of the Lord to be repaired; follow the Israelites who, every man and woman, willingly brought what was needed for all manner of work, which the Lord had commanded to be made by the hand of Moses; Second Book of Moses, 35:29. Bring, Brethren, a willing offering unto the Lord, and show that the houses of the Lord are dear to you, then the Lord, in return, will build your houses, as He blessed the house of Obed-edom; 2 Sam., 6:11. As to the third, we had long since hoped that the mutual strife and dis- sension aroused among you by Johan Bernard van Dieren had disappeared. But we see to our sorrow that [p. 4] the church of God among you is still being disturbed by this man and that many ignorant and simple people have been and still are being misled by him. We shall for once lay bare before you our thoughts about this man and then communicate to you our advice. We have no doubt whatever that if you all together be pleased to follow this advice, your congregations will soon be brought to a state of Christian and very necessary harmony, you will in mutual love embrace one an- other like brothers, and the God of peace will trample Satan under your feet. We believe that our opinion of van Dieren does not exceed the bounds of truth when we say, as we do hereby, that we regard van Dieren as an unlettered man, who is better fitted at his tailor's table to wield his scissors, measure and needle, than to fill the pastoral office and who, by explaining God's Holy Word in an unorthodox manner, confuses the members of Christ's Church and by secretly breaking like a wolf into the spiritual sheepfold scatters and devours the sheep. It is sufficiently evident from everything that Johan Bernhard van Dieren is a person who is incompetent to perform the duties of this holy office. 1. For if a pastor is not thoroughly trained in the necessary fundamentals of the orthodox doctrine and does not understand the differences which exist between our faith and other religions and does not adhere to the doc- trine contained in our unaltered Augsburg Confession of Faith and other symbolical books, and adopted by our churches everywhere, then to such a man are applicable the words of Paul, 1 Tim., 1:7, that they "desire to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they 192 The New York Public Library affirm." The same Apostle, Ch. 6, v. 3, expressly says: "If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of the Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness, He is proud, knowing nothing," etc. A pastor must "hold fast the form of sound words," 2 Tim., 1:13. He who departs from them is a preacher of dreams and in- ventions of his own and a heavy punishment hangs above his head, according to the word of God by Jeremiah, 23:40, "And I will bring an everlasting reproach upon you, and a perpetual shame, which shall not be forgotten." And in v. 16, God admonishes the people thus: "Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you: they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord." 2. When a pastor departs from the unaltered Augsburg Confession, even in the least article, he can no longer be regarded among us as orthodox and be considered as a member of our Lutheran brotherhood. Likewise, it is a proof of unorthodoxy and error when a pastor on his own hook makes changes in the adopted and prescribed ceremonies and usages of the church, and performs the administration and service of the sacraments according to his own notion. Such pastors rightly deserve the name of "unruly vain talkers and deceivers, who teach things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake," Tim., 1:10, 11. It is necessary also, in the church ritual, [p. 5] to proceed according to a fixed rule, which the Augsburg Confession, Article 5, prescribes for us. We shall not speak of the intrusion into the sacred office, nor of the un- godliness thereof, which is sufficiently exposed to us in Jer., 23:21, "I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran: I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied." 3. But briefly show that a regular call, examination and ordination are required for a lawful and godly appointment. As to the call, God's command, Jer., 1:7, reads: "For thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee." "And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron." Heb., 5:4. His call we read in the following words, Second Book of Moses, 28:1, "And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office." God himself has confirmed his call by various miracles, such as causing the rod of Aaron in one night to bring forth buds, to bloom blossoms and to yield almonds (Fourth Book of Moses, Ch. 17), and to let Korah and all his company sink down alive into the earth, because they wanted to force themselves into the priest's office (Ch. 16), and even caused the two sons of Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, to be devoured by the flames The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 193 of the altar fire, solely because they departed from God's command and order in the execution of their office (Third Book of Moses, Ch. 10). Our Augsburg Confession, Article 14, also provides that no one in the church shall publicly teach, preach, or administer the sacraments, without being duly called. 4. It is necessary that a called person be duly examined in the foundation of truth, in order that one may know whether he understands the things he must know and whether, like Apollos, he is mighty in the scriptures; whether, as a faithful shepherd, he is able to lead his flock to good pastures, whether he is able to stop the mouths of gainsayers and whether, according to the words of Paul, Tit., 1:9, he can "hold fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers." And in Tim., 3:10, Paul says expressly: "And let these also first be proved," and 2 Tim., 2:15, the same Apostle wants a pastor to "show himself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The Apostle uses the word So^os, that is, approved, and thereafter opOoxo^eTv, to cut, to show that a pastor must be tested by examination whether he is able to cut and divide the word of God in such a way that, according to the time, place and persons, he knows how to bring forth from his treasure what is needed to teach, to admonish, to chastise, to gainsay, to convince and to console. This investigation and examination must take place, not by one single person alone, but by a proper ministerium, or by such persons as have been authorized thereto by the public authorities, not in a hidden corner, but publicly, in order that it be known that the person called [p. 6] and exam- ined has the necessary qualifications and that he may be given a good testi- monial thereof, 'lest he fall into reproach and the snare [of the devil]." 1 Tim., 3:7. Then such a person is ordained by the laying on of hands and made to promise to adhere to God's Holy Word, our Symbolical Books, the proper use and administration of the holy Sacraments and church ceremonies, as the same have been adopted, and not to make any alteration therein according to his own pleasure. Thus one can then be sure that a con- gregation has a capable, sincere man, who with success and moral benefit can build up God's Church and thus save himself and all those who hear him. Now, in case a man is not called, chosen, examined and ordained to the holy office according to this order and does not observe his solemn pledges, he cannot rightly bear the name of pastor, nor fill this holy office, and cannot 194 The New York Public Library be regarded as a member of that spiritual body which counts itself as adhering to the unaltered Augsburg Confession of Faith. If, now, Joh. Bernard van Dieren can show that everything took place with him according to that order and that in addition he teaches the orthodox doctrine, then it is all right, but if the contrary appears to be the case, as we believe it will, then he cannot be regarded otherwise than as an interloper, a hireling and an unseemly intruder into the holy office, who upsets the Church of God, and who cares more for Quakerism, pietism, religion mongering and feigned hypocrisy than for pure sincerity in word and conduct. From the testimony of the Swedish pastors, dated at Philadelphia, October 31, 1727, it sufficiently appears that we have given you a true description of this van Dieren and that we regard his ordination by Mr. Henkler, pastor at Manatans ( provided it took place, which Mr. Henkler himself has denied to Mr. Lidman, pastor at Wicacoe), as unlawful, clandestine and contrary to all regulations, and consequently, we say once more, if it actually took place, as nul and of no value. The advice which the Swedish pastors at Philadelphia offered is very good, namely, inasmuch as many ships sail from your country to Europe, that van Dieren should go over to learn the things that are needed to have himself examined and ordained, but not by one man alone. In case then, dear Brethren, that some congregation or other among you should like to have this van Dieren for their pastor, let them properly call him and send him over to us; we shall examine him and, if we find him competent, we shall ordain him according to apostolic custom and provide him with our testimonials. Then all quarreling will cease, your churches will flourish [p. 7], and to unity of faith you will add [the joy of] walking together in love and peace, and the peace of God will be with you. We wish you [wisdom], that you may choose the better part and that on the day of Jesus Christ you may be found not guilty. We remain, dear Brethren, jointly your fellow-brethren in Christ, the Con- sistory of the Lutheran church at Amsterdam. Signed in their name, Casparus van den Broek, Consistorii Secretarius Written at our meeting, July 5, 1730 N. B. The original of the above [letter] was sent to the Consistory at New York and delivered to them for safe keeping. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 195 LETTER from the Amsterdam Consistory to the Consistory at New York. July 15, 1730 Reverend Gentlemen and dearly beloved Fellow Brethren in Jesus Christ: In our consistorial letter of May 26, 1730, to your Reverend Pastor, Mr. Willem Christoffel Berkenmeyer, we promised by the next ship to advise your Reverences more fully what is our opinion and counsel in regard to getting rid of the sad dissensions which, we find from written and printed communications, still divide you and are the cause that many necessary, useful and good things are left undone, to the great detriment of your spiritual welfare. We have had our information and advice printed and are sending your Reverences herewith two hundred copies, in order that you may distribute them everywhere and that every one may have knowledge of our advice and thereby look at matters with other eyes. We have added thereto the original in writing and confirmed the same with our consistorial seal, in order that no one would be able to say that this document issued in print is faked or false, as your Reverences by the original writing can prove the genuineness of the printed copy. Your Reverences will therefore carefully preserve the original in your church chest and in your Reverences' protocol make due note of everything, in order that your churches may be kept in good order and the successors may praise the acts of their predecessors. In case your Reverences hereafter should need more printed copies, we shall send your Reverences some more. Meanwhile, we wish your Reverences the grace and peace of God and hope that our advice may find a favorable reception among all, in order that God's holy name may be honored and you all may increase in faith and be built up in peace and jointly grow to be a holy temple of the Lord, and the peace of God be with you all. Amen. We remain, jointly, your Reverences' fellow-brethren, the members of the Consistory of the Lutheran Congregation in Amsterdam, in whose name this is signed. Casparus van den Broeck Amsterdam, July 15, 1730. [Addressed:] To the Reverend Consistory and members of the congregations of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at New York, Albany and Hakkensak. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Letter Book of the Consistory, pages 432, 433. 196 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 19th of July, . . . 1730. After reading and approval of the minutes kept on the 5th of July last, Ds. van Garel reported that the letter to be sent to New York, revised by his Reverence, was printed. Further, there was read a letter drafted by his Reverence, to accompany the printed copies, which was approved, and it was decided to send this together with the two hundred printed copies. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, page 479. o o o / MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 20th of Feb- ruary, Anno 1732. After resumption and approval of the minutes kept on the 6th of February last, Praeses Ds. Boon read the power of attorney given by several members of various congregations in America to Jan Michiel Schutz, a citizen of New York, in America, to make, together with the exhibition of several letters and other papers, a verbal report to our Consistory about the calling and ordination of Ds. Jan Bernard van Dieren, and to inquire whether the printed writing sent by us is genuine. Whereupon appeared the above named Jan Michiel Schutz, delegate from New York, in America, who, having been heard, was found to be very igno- rant about the matter. Meanwhile, there was produced and shown to him by Ds. Meyer a letter from the Very Reverend Mr. Henrich Walter Gerdes, Theologiae Doctor, and pastor of the German congregation of our Unaltered Augsburg Confession in London, dated Feb. 1, 1732, in which it is stated that they have been commissioned to call a pastor for those of New York and Hakkensak, and Ds. Meyer is asked by the said Mr. Gerdes, with the knowledge of his Reverence's consistory, whether his Reverence happens to know of a suitable candidate, fully master of the Dutch language, who might be inclined to accept the aforesaid call on a comfortable salary and further emoluments, there being already 23 pounds in the custody of the above named Mr. Gerdes in the London Consistory available for traveling expenses. Whereupon it was resolved by us to withdraw from those affairs and disputes and the delegate was told to address himself to the Evangelical Consistory at London. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 6, pages 423, 524. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 197 LETTER from Johann Spaler, Lutheran Pastor at Rhinebeck and Queen- bury, to the Amsterdam Consistory. 81 August 1, 1732 Very Reverend, Honorable, Highly Estimable and Most Learned Gentlemen, Consistorial Councilors and Assessors: Although for four or five years I was prevented from going forth into the harvest of the Lord, which is great, but in which, already for many years, the faithful laborers have been too few, and although I was also by many, partly in earnest, i.e. conscientiously, and partly in jest, yes, even abusively, criticized for and advised against this venture of mine, which they considered desperate, yet, I now find, according to my wish, that in my whole life I could have undertaken nothing more useful, needful and conducive to further the honor of God, nor more serviceable to one's neighbor, or more glorious to Christian hearts who have experienced it. I came to a country which in Germany is not as well known as Pennsyl- vania; consequently, it was also my intention to go thither or to Virginia, since the inhabitants there had since long been longing for a pastor. For this reason, therefore, on the advice of Doctor Ziegenhagen, pastor of the Royal Chapel in London, and at the request of Jacob Stauber, who had come from Virginia with a written commission, as well as at the request of the entire ship's company who, persuaded thereto by Jacob Stauber, were planning to go to Virginia, I accepted, on the 29th of June Anno 1732, a call signed by 56 persons. However, as the people heard that in Virginia the nourishment, especially for Germans, was very bad, and on the contrary New York had to help out other provinces with provisions, and moreover Jacob Stauber by various things had aroused suspicion and had brought a great deal of distrust upon himself, it was decided to go to New York, which after a very deplorable and pathetic voyage, which lasted nearly 30 weeks, was accomplished, with the loss of about 70 persons out of 147, of which I have given Mr. Cornelis Van Eyk a more complete account and complaint. Now, after I had hardly been two days in the above named city, a gentle- man by the name of Henricus Rekmann [Reekman], sheriff of the city, who had settled a large tract of land with Germans, at a place [called] Reinbeck, near which lay another place, Quinsberg [Queenbury], where High Ger- mans had received a grant of some 1000 morgens [2000 acres] of land from Queen Anne, proposed to me [to go thither] and charged me with 81 Original in German. 198 The New York Public Library the spiritual care of these people, for which purpose, therefore, I went there in Holy Week. After I had preached a few sermons there, I received a call on March 31st, whereupon, without delay, I occupied the parsonage, which is situated on the North River, 20 German miles from the city, in the village called Quinsberg. My dear congregation consists of 90 families, or about 560 to 570 souls. I found these poor people in the following circumstances. They com- plained to me how they not only in public meetings, through their reader, in special prayer, had called upon God for a spiritual adviser, but also had handed a call to a certain pastor, to send the same, according to his promise, to Hamburg, and for more than 3}4 years left £50 in his hands to pay the pastor's expenses, but that, since they could get neither an answer (i.e. a true answer), nor a pastor, nor money, they had been forced, with im- portunity, to demand their money back, which after much wrangling they had received. At the first two services I baptized 16 children, of whom some were born a good while ago. As soon as I was installed I took hold of, and have since performed, my holy duties with all the zeal and earnestness of which I was capable and as far as God has given me wisdom. The two places are situated two miles apart and I perform the duties of my office at both places, on alternate Sundays, in the forenoon a sermon, after the sermon an examina- tion regarding its subject matter; after or before this I teach the catechism by asking questions and explaining the same, and in the afternoon there is usually a recapitulation of what was taught before; often the sermon is repeated and at times the part that was left over delivered. Next to this, I have lawfully constituted honest and intelligent men Elders or leaders (Vorsteher) to assist me. With their approval I have, out of the Nassau-Idsteinischer und Rheingraflicher Kirchen Ordnung, as also on the basis of my own experience and practice, drawn up a form of church disci- pline, concerning churchgoing, baptism, the Lord's Supper, marriage and other solemn religious ceremonies, and have had the same read to the congregation by one of the elders and have recommended them to observe it. After this was accomplished, I took two elders or, where I thought this unnecessary, one elder, with me and made a house to house visitation, which, if God will grant me life and health, I shall repeat each year. I examined old and young as to their family life and conduct; also, in how far they were instructed in reading, praying and the catechism. In so doing I found people who either knew nothing at all, or who could hardly recite the Lord's Prayer and the Apostles' Creed, and just as ignorant as they were, were also their The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 199 children, so that there was not much more there than natural life et cognitio Dei tantum generalis. Some had never, others only many years ago, attended the Lord's Supper; some people's children were so ignorant and wild that they asked what the pastor was, whether he was a human being or not. Others, large and small, ran away from me into the woods or hid themselves elsewhere. But I also found a few, whose parents brought a good education with them from Germany, who had some information. Eighteen persons, married as well as unmarried, I instructed for three weeks, as I had not time enough left before Pentecost, daily for several hours at my house, con- firmed them by the laying on of hands and admitted them to Holy Com- munion. Finally, I consider it highly necessary to give your Reverences some information about our aedificiis ecclesiasticis. Some years ago they erected churches in both places, both still without pews or other requisites, which at the time doubtless were large enough, but which soon will be found to be too small. They also began to build a parsonage. Now it is my hearty desire to bring these buildings of my dear congregation, begun in a spirit of devotion and love, if not to completion, at least into a better condition. For this purpose, in both buildings, however, there is a lack of the necessary means, there of books, here of money. Few of our people have proper books; there is a lack of Bibles, prayer-books, hymnals and catechisms. I wish particularly that we might have the Nassau-Idstein one, of which several copies, in small format, from that country are in the hands [of the congre- gation]. I cannot let this opportunity pass without mentioning that my hearers have told me that in accordance with the desire and promise of the pastor alluded to above, and their writing given to him, they had him solicit at Hamburg a contribution for the building of their church, but that he would give them neither an answer nor money. Be that as it may, we have not been able to conceal our situation from your Reverences and Honors; conse- quently, we do not doubt, not only that this work begun in the name of the Lord will be sacred and agreeable to you, but also that your Reverences and Honors, in order to further the same, will be pleased to extend Christian- brotherly, generous hands to fill our needs. Accordingly, the entire congregation, with due submission and respect, through the undersigned witnesses and your obedient supplicant, humbly take refuge to your Reverences and Honors, consoling themselves that your Reverences and Honors are well able to vouchsafe and grant us our request. The Supreme Rewarder of all that is good will not let go unrewarded what 200 The New York Public Library is done in His honor and for the consolation and salvation of the souls of the poor. This is assured of and heartily wishes, Your Reverences' and Honors' obedient servant and mediator, Mag. Joh. Spaler Ev. Luth. Pastor at Reinbek and Quinsberg Neckellas Bonenstiel Christoffel Hagedorn Frans Neher Jorg Schortz Johannes Roschman Joh. Georg Erhart ( ? ) Jacob Scheffer Johannes Hemor ( ? ) Jerg Hans Zufelt Vorsteher Quinsberg, the 1st of August, st. v., 1732. [Addressed:] To Mr. Henricus Behnann [Beekman] in New York Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o LETTER from Johann Michael Schiitze to the Amsterdam Consistory. 82 April 15, 1733 Very Reverend, Highly Learned and, particularly, Most Gracious, Highly Honored Gentlemen and Patrons: My duty reminds me hereby to wait upon your Reverences and once more to acknowledge that I am most deeply indebted to you for the great kindness shown to me, but, furthermore, also humbly to report that through divine guidance I have finally arrived among my dear ones, albeit in a miserable condition. Now, whereas your Reverences, my most gracious patrons, will sufficiently remember that the Evangelical Lutheran congregations in Schoharie, Rhein- beck and Hackensack, through me, caused a letter to be delivered to your Reverences and whereas, contrary to all expectations, no answer to it has yet been received, about which these people wonder not a little; therefore, my most humble request is that you will be so kind as graciously to gratify them therein, for which sake I remain with all respect, Your Very Reverend, Most Gracious and Highly Learned Gentlemen's Most humble and obedient servant, New York, April 15, 1733. 82 Original in German. JOHANN MuCHAEL ScHUTZE Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 201 LETTER from Rev. Johannes Weyerman, pastor in Veldenz, to Peter Lauer. 83 June 10, 1733 My dear Father and our dear Godfather and much beloved Friend: We, all together, inform you, first, that we duly received your letter which you sent us several times, from which we learned with joy that you are still hale and well and that you live on such a good farm, with a fine meadow at your door, and that you have such a goodly number of sheep, cows and horses. Also, that you enjoy such a good reputation among all the High Germans and that our Lutheran congregation has a faithful pastor and a precentor. It is commendable in you that in your old age you still cling to this so precious religion and do not allow yourself to be led astray. As the temporary pastor of the place where you used to live, I have learned this with great joy; only remain steadfast, which, by virtue of my office I faith- fully admonish you to do. I have inquired about your affairs and because of your solicitude called your relatives to account and with the entire consistory insisted on it that you receive satisfaction, especially as your object is to get, not money, but a good Lutheran Bible. The matter, then, has advanced so far that every- thing you wished will be sent to you next year, together with the interest. With your books, we shall send you some more Lutheran books and give you full power to hand them out to good Christian people, but not to any Calvinists, we tell you. You will then further hear what we are ordering. May our Lord give a reasonable amount toward that. I shall take care of everything in the best manner and send things to Amsterdam and the Luth- eran Consistory; then it will no doubt all get into your hands. We shall address things to New York, to the Lutheran pastor, and now take the better care of you, because we hear that you are such a faithful member of our church. There is [no] news. Commending you to divine protection, I remain, Your most willing servant, Johannes Weyerman From Veldenz on the Moselle, June 10, 1733. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 83 Copy, enclosed with letter of August 19, 1736. 202 The New York Public Library LETTER from Lutherans in various places in New York and New Jersey, where Domine van Dieren preaches, to the Amsterdam Consistory. 84 June 4, 1734 First of all We pray to the Eternal Father of Light that you may all be filled with the spirit of grace, love and peace, and that the fullness of the Prince of Joy, Jesus, may overshadow you all unto eternal life. Amen. To the Reverend and Learned Men of God of the Honorable Consistory of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam: It is a considerable time since our delegate of the congregation here re- turned to us from your Honorable Consistory with the help of God, who heard our sighs and supplication in prayer through Christ, to whom be all honor, praise, thanks and glory in all eternity, for having conducted him to your honors and brought him back to us, although in great misery, as he was lame in both feet. But we should rejoice if this chastisement redounded to the good of his soul, "for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased to sin." We learned from our delegate how you, Hon. and Rev. Gentlemen, have been helpful to him in his need; how shall we repay your Reverences for that? Alas, we shall have to borrow the words of the holy apostle and, re- versing the persons, say: Silver and gold we have not, but what the poor have, that we shall give you, Hon. Gentlemen, namely, a penitential prayer, commending you in the name of Jesus Christ, in the true Faith, to His loving, heavenly Father. With all solicitude we are praying for you and in the spirit of Christ offer up prayers of thanksgiving for those who have been good to him, especially for you, honorable and learned pastors, praying that God from His Zion may grant you the spirit which surrounds His holy throne, in order that He may strengthen you all, by joyously opening your mouths, to proclaim from Zion the Word of Christ, and before God and all men to reveal the great mystery of the Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ. God grant you grace that, when you are called upon to help the oppressed, innocent brother, you may not be able to keep silent, but will render justice, that it may stand like a pillar in your tender conscience and that all, through His grace, may be protected from harm to their souls. As to what is further concerned, our delegate has orally informed us that he delivered to your Reverend Ev. Consistory all the writings that had been 84 Original in German. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 203 entrusted to him and that your Honors examined or scrutinized such writings in your Ev. Council, but that he had not been able to obtain any decision from your Ev. Consistory, owing to the shortness of time, as, due to his miserable condition and his anxiety to return home, he could not wait. Therefore, our joint, humble petition to you, Evangelical and Learned Pas- tors, is that we may find favor in your sight as poor members of the Church of Jesus Christ. Incline your spiritual, fatherly hearts toward us, in order that our downcast spirits may be lifted; take pity on us, poor sheep scattered in the wilderness. Oh, that your Reverences might take us upon the shoulder of your compassion and carry us to the true fold of Jesus Christ, as we have read that your Supreme Lord and the great Shepherd, Christ, did. We hope that your Reverences may in truth be His followers and in a certain measure may fulfill the same unto us and not refuse us. You will certainly fulfil the same if you do not keep silent, but help the oppressed servant of Jesus Christ and promote the truth. Do not hide yourselves in his affliction about the condition of our souls. Do not keep silent, but be pleased to announce the glad tidings to the multitude of the spiritual King Jesus, in order that the spiritual hunger within us for peace may end and that our dear pastor, through the mercy of God, may preach to us the sweet, precious Gospel in all its fullness, without offense. For our opponents, the Calvinists, incite our children against our pastor and also against the salutary doctrine, urging them to become Calvinists, because the Lutherans are no good. One is a malicious man, a liar and a perjurer. Ours is a good preacher, but he is a tailor and his ordination is no good, says Mr. Berckenmeyer, and the gentle- men of the Consistory do not write either. Nothing can be done about him. Alas, it is a great pity and grief to us that through your silence our children are deprived of the truth and fall into error, and, if no help comes from you, Hon. Gentlemen, we shall in the end be robbed of our children. Alas, we, poor little group of Lutherans, must be like a pelican of the wilderness, and as a sparrow alone upon the house top. Daily our enemies revile and deride us [saying], it must be mockery which denies us God's mercy. Therefore, we complain unto God and also to you, Reverend Gentlemen. You are, namely, God's instrument and the keepers of His spiritual house. Therefore, help us, please, out of this trouble, for Jesus Christ's sake. Do not estop your ears against our crying and soften your hearts to our pleading, for Christ's sake. Listen to our prayer, in order that you also may be heard when in your need you supplicate Christ, you, Honorable Gentlemen, who received your spiritual goods from the hand of Jesus and now see your brethren in the faith languish and want to close your hearts and ears to us. 204 The New York Public Library How can the love of Jesus be with you, among you and within you, for he who loveth not his brother, remaineth in death. Therefore, Honorable Gentle- men, let us experience such love in fact and in truth. We hope the best from your Ev. Right Reverences in Christ, through His spirit. We all together have faith in the Hon. Consistory, that you will be of one heart and one mind in Christ Jesus to promote His honor, as Christ taught His disciples in these words, Luke, Chap. 9, verses 49-50. You will gladden us with your writing of redemption from your Honors' very kind hands, with the kindling of hearty love for our souls, in order that peace may be established, that love and peace may unite the disturbed hearts. May the God of peace who raised from death the great Prince and Shepherd of His sheep, incline your Ev. Hearts to do His will, and may He also make us ready in all good works to do according to His divine will, through Christ. Amen. We commend the entire Ev. Consistory to the divine grace and provi- dence and to the arms and bosom of Jesus. This is our hearty wish and we remain, Your most obedient servants, Justices and Church Elders of the Evangelical Lutheran Congregations in the provinces of New York and New Jersey, as follows: Johannis Lawyer, Justice Hendrich Man Johannes Scheffer, Justice Ch: Brausch Abraham Berg Michgael Freymeyer Written at Scoharre, in the County of Albany, the 4th of June Anno 1734, and signed by the said Justices and Church leaders, namely: How far away the place is: From the congregation of New York to Schohary is 184 English miles. The Church Elders of the Ev. Luth. Congregation at Canat Scoharra Enten Wagner johanes keisser Above the Falls Johanns Voss (?) JORG DACHSTER Kinderhoek COENRAET BORGHGHARDT JOHANN KASPAR RaUSS From Schohary to Canat Schary, 30 English miles. Marshy From Cana Schoch, to over the Falls is 30 English miles Back from the Falls to Kinderhoek is 130 English miles From the congregation of Kinderhoek to New Hackensack is 120 English miles From Hackensak to Remmerbock is 16 English miles To the [first] four congregations our pastor goes twice a year. To the last two he goes every Sunday (Every other Sunday) Province of New Jersey New Hackensack Matteise Coenis, Elder Jost Degroet, Elder Rommerboch Peter Wammer conrat frietrich Acher (?) The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 205 MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 20th of October, . . . 1734. A letter was read from New York and other places where Ds. Jan Bernard van Dieren goes, preaching, dated June 4, 1734. Instead of answering said letter it was resolved to persist in our resolution passed on the 20th of Feb- ruary, Anno 1732. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. [6], page 623. PRINTED LETTER from the Rev. Michael Christian Knoll to the Rev. Johan Bernhard van Dieren. [Before August, 1735] To You, Joh. Bernhard Van Dieren, defunct member and stray sheep of the Lutheran Congregation, seducer of the ignorant, shunner of the light of day and servant of darkness, who in all dumbness causes schisms in the congre- gations and evades proof by all sorts of deceit, lies, denials and slanders in opposition to public testimony, letters and writings; first born of the devil and on account of such qualities a rogue and arch-rogue before all men, for the following reasons: 1. He who professes to be more than he is and who, undertaking a task, spoils it, and in addition thereto accepts money from ignorant persons, is a rogue. You, Joh. Bernhard Van Dieren, have professed to be a teacher and have not even learned to spell. This is proved in my letter by three of your letters which have been deposited in the New York church chest, in which three letters of yours there are more than 1200 orthographical mistakes. I can also bring you a man and his wife from whom, here at Hackingsack, you wished to learn to spell. Justus Falkner, deceased, also told you himself [in a letter], written Anno 1722, the 20th of March, that you were too dumb for the pastoral office. In your utter stupidity you have caused a schism in the Lutheran church at Schoggari; this the late J. F. proves in a letter of Sept. 6, 1723. Here you have done the same, as is patent to the eye. Thus you have not satisfied the demands of the pastoral office, nor been able to satisfy them; the congregations have not been edified, but been demoralized by you, and nevertheless you have drawn the congregations' salary, and therefore you are a rogue. 2. He who makes unlawful threats to the people to get their money, is a deceiver and a rogue. Now, you have tried to mix up the church money, saying that a certain man who would not consent to it, had sinned against 206 The New York Public Library the Holy Ghost, which is a lie in the first place, and a rascality in view of the above mentioned purpose. I can prove the deed to you, when and where you want, by witnesses, and therefore you are a rascal. 3. He who hurts himself may fairly be called an arch-rascal, an arch- rogue. This applies to temporal things, but is even more true if a person wounds his soul by false oaths. Now you have said in general, before you took up the pastoral office: "I thank God that I understand Latin;" especially, when a certain man asked you, while showing you an Italian book, whether you understood it, you said: "Thank God, I understand it perfectly; it is good Latin." This is proved by the late F[alkner's] letter, dated March 20, 1722, written to yourself. At the house of a certain widow you promised to marry her daughter and afterwards you said that the Lord God would not allow it. I can show you the late F's hand thereof and you know well that the persons whom it concerns are still living. After you came back from Henkel, you begged the late J. F., with many hypocritical words and taking God's name in vain, for ordination, and having thereupon been talked to by the late J. F., you said the devil had blinded you and you could weep blood that you had done that to him who had been good to you. As proof thereof I can show you the late F.'s letter. On March 29, Anno 1724, you wrote and swore by God and your conscience that the Lutheran doctrine was the clearest and plainest and nevertheless you acted contrary to such oath by denouncing, in your letter dated Feb. 22, 1722, Lutherus and all pastors of our churches as false teachers, Scribes and Pharisees. These two letters I can show you. You also know very well that you have taught here neither pure Lutheran, nor pure Calvinistic doctrine, and when a certain man, whom I can bring to you, rebuked you for it, you said: "This and that person I have already, such and such person I want to have too; thereafter I shall go away." Of serving the Reformed at Tappan, mention is made under No. 5. For so far as these expressions are oaths, you have sworn against your conscience and the truth and acted contrary to your oath, and you are a scoundrel. What is stated in my letter under No. 4, has reference to stupidities of yours, such as the breaking of bread, and the man who froze in the winter. The first needs no further proof. Of the latter, your letter with your signa- ture has been received and is in the church chest. 5. He who wants to serve the Reformed as their teacher and the Lutherans as theirs, deceives the people, and is a rogue. That you have tried to do this, Domine Antonides' writing of May 2, 1727, shows. And you are thereby convicted of being a rogue. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 207 6. He who seeks to appropriate church property to himself is a church robber, that is, among rascals, an exceptionally bad person. Now you have tried to acquire for yourself what the late Sonneman had donated to our church in the name of the Lutheran pastor, which you are not, according to letters from the Swedish, Dutch, English and Hamburg [clergymen], Falkner and Berkenmeyer, who certainly must know better who is fit to be a domine than such a dumb devil as you are. What, under No. 7, is stated in my letter, that as a tailor and a miller you do not know how to earn your living and to rule your house, is known to all men, for you are a disreputable fellow of the tailor's trade and now a miller to make a living, and that therefore you are not competent to be a pastor is stated in 1 Tim., 3:5. What under No. 8 is said about the freezing and starving of the Negress, is a matter publicly known in the Bush. As to the beating and burning, I am ready before any justice to produce sufficient evidence that I am not drawing upon my imagination. But instead of proving it to you, for it is no bacon to catch mice with, I will add here what in the preceding letter I purposely omitted. 9. He who deliberately gives ungodly and scandalous advice, is a rascal. Now you have advised a certain young man of our congregation that he should have intercourse with his prospective bride, whose parents, being Reformed, would not allow him to marry her, and when she became preg- nant, he should make out that he despised her; then her parents would be forced to consent to his marriage, and in case her parents still refused to consent, he should elope with her and you would secretly at a certain time publish the bans and marry them. That is an arch rascality. As to what is stated in the second part of my letter, that you have many witnesses against you, but that you have had yourself ordained by Henkel alone, I can prove that to you by the letters from the late F. and the Swedish [pastors]. That such an ordination is godless, where one witness stands against many, is clear. That you want to be an Apostle is unchristian, for after the death of the Apostles there have never been any. That your inclination could make you a pastor, is contrary to God's word and the inclination is an indecent, sinful desire. That, on coming from Henkel, you sought the ordination from the late F., is condemned above as a rascally act. And thus it appears from this letter, as well as from the preceding one, that you are unfit to be a pastor and that your vocation is invalid. Therefore, I repeat, as in the first letter, the admonition to do penance and to unite with the Mother Church. 208 The New York Public Library As far as your affixed seal is concerned, it is proved above that you are a rascal. If you have not enough, speak! I will send you another letter full of such rascalities of yours and furthermore, every one knows that a rogue cannot make a liar out of a man of irreproachable conduct; rather, it is a commendation to displease the evil-minded. As to your adherents' signatures, others may judge what kind of persons they are who adhere to such a rogue and arch-rogue. Fare well, if possible. • ■ i r this is written by me, Michael Christian Knoll Copy in Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] PRINTED REPLY of the Elders and Members of Mr. Van Dieren's Lutheran Church of Schohary, Kinderhook and Canajoharie to Domine Knoll's letter. Aug. 5, 1735 Response to your letter, Mr. Michael Christian Knoll, who are in your conduct ridiculous, in your action crazy, in your letter an ungodly liar, in your vain- glory a Pharisee, in your self-love a Demas, and in brotherly love a Cain, in persecuting the faithful witnesses of the Lord a Saul, and in seeking your own profit a Balak; a man who veers with every wind; a bare, sterile, twice dead, uprooted tree. You, wild wave of the sea, you spume forth your own shame; you are a wandering star who leads to darkness; a shunner of proof. Owing to these and similar qualities, you show that you are of the father of lies the devil, who is a liar from the beginning; the truth is not in him (John, 8), nor is it in you. First, as to what you write about spelling and orthographical mistakes. Even if it were so, you are but a false Scribe; you see the mote in your brother's eye, but the beam in your own eye you notice not. You, hypocrite, you yourself have plenty of mistakes in your own letter. Take notice of the meaning of words, but not of the dead letter. You also are a liar to say that he caused a schism at Scoharre. Second. You shameless liar, though a chest with two keys stands in a man's house to keep things, is he therefore a thief? But you might rightly be called a thief of a man's honor. And as to what you say about the Domine having said that this man had committed a sin against the Holy Ghost, they are godless liars who say so. But you, Knoll, you grieve the Holy Spirit, because you waste your time with useless things and unedifying words. Eph.,4:25, 29, 30, 31. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 209 Third, you wicked concocter of lies, you write that our Domine had used God's name in vain, because he thanked God and said he understood good Latin. That man lies in the churchyard. But you, unhappy man, write in your own letter, that your profession is your only consolation against God's wrath. Oh, you, miserable soul, what benefit to you then is Christ's suffering and death? Is not that blasphemy? Read sometime Heb., 10:26, 28, 29, 30. Fourth. You are a lying and a cackling old woman, for you write also that our Domine wanted to court an old woman's daughter, but God would not allow it. Perhaps you warmed your feet a little at her house when she told you such lies. That is your gospel, which you revealed. Is that Lutheran doctrine? Fie, it is a shame. Convert yourself, we beg you, from lies to the truth. Fifth. We again call you a liar for saying that our Domine among the Reformed is a Reformed, and among the Lutherans a Lutheran. You give him the name, but we think you are so in fact. The Reformed do not esteem you enough to give you the opportunity, but we believe that you would have little scruple in doing so. Sixth. In saying that he desired to have the church land, you are again a liar. It concerns yourself. This man lies also in the churchyard. Oh, you un- grateful fellow! Consider for once whether you are not enjoying what was his own, for the land on which you dwell at Hackensack he himself donated to the church. If you had had the opportunity, who knows what you would have done with it. And the domines who are still living, to whom you appeal, are such men to judge in the matter without hearing the other side, as you do? John, 7:51. Seventh. You boast in your vainglory, you drunken, false Pharisee! You despise that man, our Domine, who out of necessity, for the Church of Christ, uses a mill for the support of his family. But you have another mill, where you grind together mischief and lies. You say he has been a tailor. It is true, but God made him such a tailor that he cuts the truth from the lies. Therefore you hate him, for you are a prominent manufacturer of lies and a child thereof. And as to not ruling his house well, the world knows that better than a foolish man can know it from hearsay. You prove it by references to the Scriptures, as your Father did in the temptation. Matt., 4:3, etc. Eighth. You simple-minded Achitophle, unfortunate in prophesying. Have you, or any one, seen the Negress spin, or that she was branded? But you have a brand on your conscience; you have spun together lies and your father and his dear children have helped you invent them. But what do you think of the man who strikes a poor orphan so that it makes his nose and 210 The New York Public Library mouth bleed, and that the constable must come to command peace. That is you, Knoll. A fine Domine! How much a hundred? Ninth. Oh, you fine Caiaphas, high priest of the liars! Who has inspired these lies in you and given you this godless advice to bring them to light? It is too coarsely spun, Mr. Spinner Knoll. But it will all come to light, though it drive you crazy or mad. A man does one of two things, one good, the other bad. Thus, the young man was advised to do as Dirk did, namely, to urge his wife to go with him to his church before he married her, but not to do, as Dirk did, to have intercourse with her before he married her; and that advice was given at the request of the young man's mother. If he says otherwise, he is like you. But you, false Judas, you expected to please the Reformed with your lies, but you went too far with your lies and brought forth the child of perdition, that is, falsehood. 2 Thes., 2:3, and Ps., 7:14, 15. Tenth. As to your irreproachable conduct, that is known to the world: fighting a soldier with a cane, and swearing like a trooper; scolding like an angry old apple woman, and, in writing, an unmitigated liar, who has a shameless whore's forehead and is an adviser of the same. Our brethren have with reason exposed you by their placard and you yourself have con- firmed by your own letter that you are no less than they made you out to be. Oh, blind Pharisee, fools must inquire after you and crazy, godless people accept your advice. Now, write what lies you like, those who accept them are like you, but be assured that no honest men will accept them, for they know too well what kind of a man he is; the world must praise him wherever he has been. Fare well, foolish Knoll, if it is possible. We, elders and members of the Lutheran church of Domine Joh. Bern. Van Dieren at Scohare, Kinderhoek and Kanjohary, have written this. We can and shall always be willing to make good what is said above before the authorities of the city of Albany, if there is occasion for it. Written at Hunter's Field, or Scoharre, the 5th of August, 1735. Lodowyk Casselman Hendrick Scheffer Abraham Berg Frederick Bauch Hendrick Stuberauch Michael Freymeier Jacob Borst Johannes Lawyer Hendrick Man Christian Bouch Conradt Borghart N. B. Through haste in copying there were some mistakes in the first edition, which have been corrected in this second edition. New- York, printed by Peter Zenger, 1735. Copy in Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 211 LETTER from Rev. Wilhelm C. Berckenmeyer to the Amsterdam Consistory. August 19, 1736 Very Reverend, Highly Esteemed, Highly Learned and Highly Honored Gentlemen; Affectionate Friends and Fellow Brethren in the Lord Jesus Christ: The inclosed papers show what compels us this time to trouble your Reverences with our letter. A fine old man among the High Germans, Do. Peter Lauer, obtained from Germany, through the pastor in Veldenz, Weyer- man ( as the signature shows, in Copia Lit. A. ) , 85 a promise of several books, which he is to receive through your Very Rev. Consistory at Amsterdam. He has therefore requested us for permission to write your Reverences for information and at the same time humbly to request that it might please your Reverences to post his letter concerning the matter, sub Lit. B., in order that this good soul may perhaps enjoy this happiness before his death. Secondly, your Reverences doubtless know that about four years ago, Js. Mich. Schut was in Holland and England, provided with all sorts of letters and testimonials signed by the Van Dieren party to prevent the New York call, and even ( as some of them, who have left this cabal, tell us ) to induce your Rev. Consistory to adopt another conclusion than the one which was printed. And although Js. Mich. Schut (as far as we have learned from Eng- land) has accomplished nothing more than that he frightened away the Frieslander, Dom Bernh. van Dieren has nevertheless dared to console and soothe the people all this time that his lawful confirmation obtained from the Very Rev. Consistory was under way. This made the people so bold that, when Do. Knoll had agreed in a little familiar note to appeal to van Dieren's conscience, 86 the adherents at Hackinsak not only posted a scandalous placard against Do. Knoll ( vid. species f acti sub Lit. C. ) , 87 but, when Do. Knoll, in order to bring the matter into court, took van Dieren more firmly by the skin in a printed accusation, 88 the Schoharie adherents to the north (who had never seen Do. Knoll in their life, defended their pastor in such a gross manner that it is scandalous and dreadful to hear ( vid. Lit. D. ) , 89 Inasmuch, now, as several of his adherents to the north have become suspicious of van Dieren, because he now pretends that he wrote no letters to Holland and that this was not even necessary, and inasmuch also as some 85 Letter dated June 10, 1733, above. 86 See letter dated November 5, 1734, in "Extract from New York Protocol," below. 87 See "Announcement" in "Extract. . .," below. 88 Printed letter [before August, 1735], above. 89 Printed reply, August 5, 1735, above. 212 The New York Public Library have set their hands to this libel who were ignorant and innocent in the matter, for instance, Henrich Man and Henrich Stuberauch, although others intend to settle van Dieren himself again and for the entire year at the north, some well-disposed persons have asked us humbly to request your Very Rev. Consistory to pronounce and communicate a decision regarding the letters sent out, hoping that in this way the eyes of the blind may at least be opened and peace may be restored everywhere. As it seems to us, Very Reverend Gentlemen, the more so as the adherents in Do. Berkenmeyer's congregation now recently have felt a loathing for v. Dieren, because he goes around collecting attestations of being a lawful Lutheran pastor from suspected Calvinist ministers, so that there might be hope of trampling Satan under foot, if this harness, on which he relies, were taken from him. We wish, hope and pray with all reverence that your Reverences may be pleased to take this to heart and before God and on His behalf to resolve what may tend to His Majesty's honor and what is consistent with your Reverences honor and conscience. We remain, Very Reverend, Highly Esteemed, Highly Learned, Highly Honored Gentle- men, Affectionate Friends and Fellow Brethren in the Lord Jesus Christ, Your Reverences' most humble servants who are in duty bound to pray for you and to serve you, WlLLEM CHRISTOPH BeRKENMEYER J. A. C. P. Alb. & Loonenburg Loonenborg, in the County of Albany, August 19, 1736 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] * * e EXTRACT from the New York Protocol. 90 1734-1736 Extract from the New York Protocol, page 219, as to what took place in the controversy between me, Michael Christiaan Knoll, pastor of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at New York and Hakkensak, and Joh. Bernh. van Dieren, a tailor and miller, until August 1736. Returning in the month of October, 1734, from my congregation in the Highlands to New York, I heard that van Dieren wanted to leave for a 90 Original ms. in the archives of St. Matthew's Lutheran church, New York City. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 213 Lutheran congregation at Tolpenhagen, in Pennsylvania, and had already received a call, which caused me to go to Joh. Mich. Schutze, the father- in-law of the said van Dieren and to ask him whether there was any truth in such talk. When he admitted it, my answer was: "I am surprised and sorry that your son-in-law will not for once rest and finally cease to disturb our Lutheran congregations in these parts. I should at once, on my arrival in the year 1732 (?), have taken hold of him, as he had voluntarily turned over the church and parsonage at Hakkensak, saying that he would no longer serve them, so that he and all the Lutherans at Hakkensak belong to my call and congregation, but I waited until now, in October 1734, ( 1 ) because I had to think first how to tackle the matter; (2)1 must first let the people know that I did nothing for reasons of self-interest and out of bitter zeal; (3) because van Dieren in the beginning was building a mill, so that I wanted to give him time to settle his household affairs; (4) because one family after another of their own accord turned to us, I thought the rest would come around likewise. And for such reasons I would have kept still a while longer, but because he, your son-in-law, now wants to tackle another congregation to destroy the same also, I must begin to speak and prevent, if God grant me grace, him from destroying those people too, and I shall at the first oppor- tunity write to the Tolpenhageners to warn them." Joh. Mich. Schutze said, the Tolpenhageners have known him, van Dieren, longer than you, so that my writing would be in vain. Moreover, on what point did I want to warn those people? I answered, the Tolpenhageners were of no concern of mine, except only that they were my brothers in the faith, whose fall I could perhaps prevent. They were now united in their religious services with reading, but if van Dieren came there, there would in a short time be as much disorder and schism, hatred and enmity among them as had been caused at Hakkensak and Scoggarie [Schoharie]. If they could offer 80 or 100 pounds in salary, they could find better people than van Dieren. I then mentioned the points against van Dieren about which I intended to write to them, as shown hereafter the letter to van Dieren himself. J. M. Schutze became angry and I said I was sorry that van Dieren be- longed to his household, but that it was a church matter which I could not leave untouched and that he should not, as father-in-law, take a stand in it against the truth. If he (J. M. Schutze) wanted to take up the matter, he must appear before the Consistory, or advise v. Dieren to abstain, which would be his best course. He replied that he had advised him to do so, but 214 The New York Public Library he would not listen. After more such talk I went home and wrote to the Swedish theologians in Pennsylvania and to van Dieren, as follows: 1. To the Swedish theologians. Plurimum, etc. 2. To v. Dieren. New York, Nov. 5, 1734. Dear Mr. van Dieren: I hereby finally also have to speak to you as to a man who according to his birth and upbringing belongs to our Christian Evangelical Lutheran congregation to see whether our merciful God, for Christ's sake, will perhaps grant you the grace to open your eyes and to know all the confusion and scandal which you have caused in our congregation, in order that you may be reconciled with your Mother-Church and may save your own and other scandalized souls. All the unrest of which I speak came from your call to the pastoral office which you have sought upon your own authority. In order to make you with- draw therefrom, I must demonstrate to you, first, your lack of qualification for the pastoral office and, secondly, the irregularity and nullity of your pretended call. Your own incapacity is clear from the following points: (1) In our New York church chest we have three letters from you, in which three letters you made more than 1200 mistakes of spelling, some so miserable and so stupid, that if a schoolboy of 10 or 12 years wrote thus, he would have to undo his breeches. All sensible people will understand that such a person is not even qualified to teach school children, much less is he capable of speaking in all wisdom before God and his congregation. ( 2 ) You are an entirely unlearned or ignorant person, even in matters per- taining to the catechism. The elders at Hakkingsak would not entrust to you the few pennies of the collection money. Then you said that they sinned against the Holy Ghost and that it could not be forgiven them. Now, that is a lie, that they sinned in doing so. A lie that it is a sin against the Holy Ghost, which could not be forgiven them. You also make yourself out to be a liar, for you have again admitted them to Holy Communion. So you are a person who does not even know what sin is and how to distinguish between different kinds of sin. Could such a person be a teacher? ( 3 ) You are a false witness before God, for you have sworn by the name of God that you understood Latin perfectly, that an Italian book was good The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 215 Latin. You wanted to marry a certain widow's daughter, but the Lord God would not allow it. You have written in the name of God and on your con- science that the Lutheran religion was the best and at other times you despise and slander Luther and all our pastors, as if a man who cannot spell had more knowledge than all those pastors. With many deceitful invocations of God's name, you sought ordination by the late Falkner, after you had returned from Henkel. Could you then be a witness to the truth, you who use God's name so falsely? Could you be trusted to care for other people's souls, when you wounded your own soul by such manners of speaking, which are nothing less than false oaths, and using God's name in vain, which He has threatened not to let go unpunished? (4) You entirely lack the necessary intelligence to share and to apply God's Word. It is no wonder either. Persons who spent all the days of their lives in studying, praying and combating evil, have enough to do with that and would gladly be relieved of their pastoral office as a burden, which without God's command would be too heavy even for angels, and you think that all that is necessary is to buy a Bible in the Vlakbosch [Flatbush] and at once one has all the wisdom to be an apostle to the whole world and to understand God's Word. Look at your self-deceit and ignorance if you can- not distinguish the words of command of the holy Communion: Take and eat this, this is my Body; do this in remembrance of me . . . , from the rest of the words, which explain the circumstances, how the Lord celebrated it, which circumstances the Lord commanded his holy apostles to observe. Look at your ignorance in administering and applying the Holy Scripture as shown by this small sample. To a man who lives up the river, in the Highlands, right in the woods, and who complained of the cold in the winter, you wrote on March 7, anno 1721, as follows: "I understand that you had to suffer much from the cold. But console yourself, dear Friend, in the Lord. You doubtless know that if we suffer something for Christ's sake, we shall also partake of His glory. Then joy will follow sadness and coldness will be followed by the warm love of Jesus; then sorrow, complaining, frost and coldness will have an end. Whereas then, the Royal Prince regarded suffering as a joy, let us, who wish to be His servants, for His sake regard as a joy whatever He considers us worthy to suffer." There are 40 mistakes of spelling in 7 lines of High German. Ought you not to have been ashamed thus to flatter lazy, shiftless people who live in the woods and who do not want to cut wood, but because of their laziness 216 The New York Public Library ruin their body and health, and should you not be ashamed thus to elevate such lazy people to the rank of martyrs? Should you, as an honest man, not have written: Well, since you are lazy and live in the middle of the woods, continue to ruin yourself and your family and to murder your body and health; wait a little and the wrath of God will bring you where it is hot enough and where as the devil's martyr and suicide you will sweat enough. Thus, you should have written, but Mr. van Dieren you have learned to act in ways that are different from those known to honest theologians. By such deceitful consolations the false prophets and Pharisees of old also sought to draw the women unto themselves, as you do too, to drive the widows out of their houses and their inheritance and to dry their tears, as you do too, but conscientious pastors beware thereof as of a devil's trick, which has brought ruin upon them and their hearers. If, then, in these two matters you act quite wrongly and contrary to the Holy Scripture — more I have not seen of you — what do you suppose pious and honest theologians must think of you? In one word, they regard you as a false, pharisaical prophet, with all your preaching from the Prophets — which you do not understand, since in such simple matters you act so shame- fully — with all your moral preaching from the Law, for, as is clearly to be seen from these two examples, you understand neither the Law nor the Gospel, nor know in the least how to distinguish matters or to apply the same. ( 5 ) You are to be counted among those who are neither cold nor warm, and therefore hypocrites. That is clear, since you wanted to be pastor in our Lutheran church and also Calvinistic Domine of the Calvinistic con- gregation at Tappan. That is a great deal more than people can do who understand their Catechism and know that they must confess and defend the truth of the doctrine in all its clauses, according to their conscience. All kings and consistories are powerless to unite yes and no, light and darkness, Christ and Belial, and you want to be Domine at Tappan and Hakkingsack? Phew! Shame! Shameless stupidity of rhetorical heretics, who imagine that if only they prate a bit of Faith, Rebirth, Love, etc. — of which, however, they possess nothing — it is enough, whether one believes in God's Word, or in his own dreams. And the stupid people will not understand that the pure religion, with rejection of all, even the least untruth, is the basis of all faith or rebirth, of love, hope and everlasting salvation. Would you, as Lutheran pastor and witness of the truth and in need be able and willing to stand in the breach when as a traitor to the Lutheran truth you want to mix the re- ligions, believing yourself and making the people believe that as long as The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 217 one breaks the bread at the Lord's Supper, both religions are united? Oh, Stupidity! Oh, Wickedness! (6) You are a man for whom, to regard him as honest, one must adapt one's conscience. See, the late Sonnemann had given some land to the Hakkingsack church. You have sought to make it your property. That is called attempting despoliation of the church. Sonnemann understood it and would rather give you another piece of land than deprive the church. Surely, Sonnemann would have been better fitted to be a pastor than you. You have sought to prevent Mr. Berkenmyer's call as well as mine; in what way your conscience will no doubt tell you. An East-Frieslander, who in response to the call which was extended to me had come to Amsterdam, had his belly so filled with lies that he re- turned the call, and they tried to do the same to me in London. The part you had in this shows how much dishonorable deceit dwells in you. You should have gone yourself and have had yourself examined, and if you had been found qualified, every one would have accepted you with joy. But you dread the examination and the presence of intelligent persons, and although in addition all pastors, the Swedish, Dutch, English and Hamburg pastors, Falkner, Berkenmeyer and now I also, write about and bewail your surliness, you nevertheless imagine yourself to be a very competent pastor and an angel of light, and hide yourself from the light. Yes, much is needed before you will understand the difference between an honest man and a church despoiler, for I should be willing to contend that all that has happened was done by you out of sheer, blameworthy simplicity. Do you know in what way? Answer: Because you are so dumb and do not know how to spell. ( 7 ) You are indeed not capable of taking care of your family. When you were a tailor you lacked the patience to sit still, otherwise you could easily have earned your living without assuming an office for which you are not trained and have not the least intelligence, for more is needed to be pastor than to deliver a stolen or meditated sermon. Read the Epistles of Paul to Titus and to Timothy and notice the pitfalls of the devil around you in doc- trine and in life. Such busybodying in other men's matters is mentioned by Peter in comparison with theft and murder and also brings with it all sorts of misfortune, as it happens to you. Jack of all trades and master of none. Now to eat the tailor's bread in peace, you have not learned. Recently you built a mill and perhaps — for I do not understand such matters so well — acquired enough land with it to support yourself comfortably. But, Mr. van Dieren, people from whom one wishes to live want to be served 218 The New York Public Library promptly, well and faithfully and to own land does not help unless one seeks to earn one's bread in the sweat of one's countenance. Therefore, you do not know how to maintain a household. Would you, then, be capable of establishing and managing a congregation and a church? Say yes, if you dare, and Paul wall punish your lies. (8 ) You are a person who, as people say, only foam and spew love as often as you open your mouth, but who at home lives like a loveless tyrant. Let your Negress and the neighbors tell how she must steal the food from other people and the meal or flour from you out of the mill and bake the same in the woods, and how, in winter, through snow and ice, marsh and woods, she must walk many miles without shoes and stockings. No wonder that such a starved and frozen being in the evening at the spinning wheel falls asleep, and nev ertheless your son must whip her or heat the tongs and burn the Negress' feet and loin. Mr. van Dieren, do you call that love? Learn from God, who is love, what love is. He feeds the birds and clothes the flowers; is such a Negress not more than they? And you, such a loving man, will not give her clothes in winter and food for her labor? Mr. van Dieren, to act thus, to boast before people of love and to be a Hon at home, is to be like the Pharisees, clean and white outside, and full of horrors and dead bones inside. Hear what Paul says: "if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel." Think, if you can, what this means. Who is worse than an infidel? Answer, no one but the devil. Such a one the Apostle Paul declares you to be, and you imagine that people should regard you as a Lutheran pastor. No, dear Mr. van Dieren, the wolf's claws and lovelessness protrude too much from the sheep's clothing. Be this enough as to your lack of qualification for the pastoral office. Now, secondly, I must speak also of the unlawfulness of your call, of which you boast. You say, Doctor Bohm sent you to Tscoggari [Schoharie] to be tailor and schoolmaster there. But to be a tailor and schoolmaster is quite distinct from being a public pastor. You know that yourself. Therefore you wished to be examined and ordained by the Swedish gentlemen and the late Falkenier, but these found you insufficiently qualified, rejectable and too frivolous for the office of pastor. With that you might have been satisfied, but then you ran, I know not to whom. It must have been Henkel; he alone must have examined and ordained you; (2) [told you] to study in all places; (3) [did so] because you wanted so badly to be a pastor. What devil through The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 219 the worst heretics may have wished to introduce such irregularities into the Church? ( 1 ) The call and ordination are based on the examination as well as on a good testimonial. Now you had sufficient testimonials of unworthiness from the Swedish gentlemen and Falkner. All of these had rejected you, and now a single person, Henkel, appears, examines you and testifies by ordination, and such testimonial of one person, against that of so many, is to be sufficient to prove to all the world and to all Christendom that you are a doughty pastor and apostle. Go before a civil court and in a matter of 5£ bring the testimony of one witness against that of many, and you lose. And in the most important matter of the pastoral office, on which the soul and salvation of the congregation depend, there one single witness is to be enough! Stupidity! (2) He must have ordained you to be pastor where you wish to be and he, your rejectable witness, as well as yourself are so stupid as not to know that the apostle's work and office is to preach in all places of the world. Which apostolate God conferred only on the 12 holy men. At the same time the Lord appointed besides and next after the apostles pastors and teachers, each pastor for his own flock, and vice versa, so that God, who is a God of order, abhors such running around. (3) He must also have ordained you because you wanted very much to be a pastor. Thus, every one who is unashamed enough boldly to repeat his catechism, when it does not please him honestly to support himself by exer- cising his trade, is to be justified in eagerly taking up the pastoral office, even though he has nothing but a heavy pound of all sorts of stupidity and wicked- ness in his heart, as I have proved it of you in the first part. And may such a person then, under the cloak of the pastorate, practice church despoilment, create despair at the wrong time by the doctrine of sin against the Holy Ghost, and commit all sorts of deceit, religious confusion, etc.? No, Mr. van Dieren. No one shall embolden himself to be a pastor. No one shall assume the honor himself, but only he who is called of God (to wit, by means of mediation ) . You know that yourself, otherwise you would not have needed to seek the semblance of a call, if the inner desire to be a pastor were enough. But posito, sed non concesso, your call by Henkel were valid, you would nevertheless long ago have lost your call obtained by begging and soliciting, if thereafter you had shown yourself to be as stupid and in doctrine and conduct as unworthy of the pastoral office as stated above. But I dare not prove to you the impropriety and injustice of your call by Henkel. Your own heart told you that long ago, when, coming from Henkel, 220 The New York Public Library you again, by many deceptive and deceitful words, sought ordination by the late Mr. Falkner. If you had in any way believed that Henkel's ordination was right, you would just as little have desired the same from the late Falkner, as I should seek ordination by my respected colleagues as long as I am sufficiently assured of my call. And therefore it is proven that your pastoral call is as worthless as your pastoral incapacity is great. Therefore, you may prepare yourself for justi- fication before God for all the disturbance, disunity and scandal [which you have caused] in churches and homes; for justification for the slandering of so many upright pastors and true members of His church; for justification of the hardness of heart whereby your adherents and yourself have separated yourselves from the true Evangelical Lutheran Church. For having, by deceit of the devil, by laziness and desire to gain more easily, by ambition and love of preferment, you have made that people can point to you with the finger and say: See, that is the fine animal, the wise fellow who can preach so beautifully, yes, can lie, under the guise of preaching. Prepare yourself to answer for all the souls of your adherents who perhaps are or will be lost. What will you say before God's judgment seat when you see some one in the fire of hell? Will the judgment not be: Ye renegade, whom I have not sent, whom I owe no mercy, are the cause that this poor soul has not heard or been willing to hear a doughty, true pastor. Go ye too and suffer what thy deeds deserve! Oh, my dear Mr. van Dieren, I might in Europe have had more than one opportunity to enter the ministry by devious ways and, if necessary, would yet have no objection to making my living in some other way, but I have always had great respect for the pastoral office and have only quietly studied and waited for God's call, and when I had to go, I did it gladly. But the certainty of my divine call is my only consolation against God's wrath as to my justification for the pastoral office. I would have written this to you long ago, but among other reasons I have kept still until now in the hope that your mill would give you enough support and that you would tire of running around. But as I hear that the devil drives you on to tackle another, to me unknown, congregation of my brethren in the faith, I had to warn them and thus openly to break with you. And here you have then, in this letter, together with the judgment of the previous pastors, also my opinion of you. If you follow my advice, examine your conscience, repent the former heresy and seek reunion with our Chris- tian Lutheran Church, well, I shall rejoice. If you continue in your folly, your blood is upon you. I, like so many other theologians, have proved to The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 221 you that you are not qualified for the pastoral office and that your pretended call is unlawful. Go, then, fill the measure of your sins. The Lord who probes the hearts and souls will soon discover your tricks and the shame of your nakedness and know how to punish you accordingly. Fear Him, the time is short and the reward great. May the Lord let the light of the true faith and especially of the pastoral office and its dignity and responsibility shine upon you and open your eyes, then your conduct and the life which you have led heretofore will become an abomination to you. May the Lord let you know the other doctrines of faith, true repentance, acknowledgment and confession of sins, before faith departs, then you will see that your many words of faith, love, etc., have been only vain boasting from the time you sought the pastoral office, for from that time on you daily sank more deeply into all sorts of sin, scandal and slander and also in poverty. Not before and until you desist will you free yourself therefrom, but, if you separate yourself from Christ and His Church, you and your adherents will die and weep in hell, whereas, on the contrary, true pastors are endowed with the grace to save themselves and those who hear them. For the rest, you may say and think what you like of this letter and me; God will be my witness here and on the great day that I seek your salvation and that of your adherents as well as mine and that I heartily am, Of all the members of the Church of Christ, with all love, the willing serv- ant, in duty bound to pray, Mich. Christiaan Knoll, By God's grace duly called minister of the Gospel at New York, Hackingsax, cum annexis. « « « Hereupon the call of Tolpenhagen was omitted and instead of an answer the following printed notice was posted on the first Christmas Day at Hack- ingsack: ANNOUNCEMENT That we, the undersigned Elders and Deacons of both Lutheran congre- gations of Hakkingsack and Remerborch hereby declare Dominie Knole to be a liar and a disgrace of the Lutheran congregation and his letter to 222 The New York Public Library be a lying letter, until he proves before the Magistrate of Hackingsack what he has written of our Dominie van Duhren. December the 7th, Anno 1734. Johannes Fuchs, Jacobus van Boskerk, Peter Wannemaker, Dieder Wan- NEMAKER, JOHANNES TEIJS, JOOST DE GrOOT, MaTTIJS KORNESE, CONRAAD Friederich, Nicolaas Meijsinger, Conrad Frija. These are all his adherents and not only Consistory members. Printed by J. Pieter Zenger. o o o Regarding this announcement it is to be observed: 1. That the miller did not sign his name to it. 2. That the undersigned farmers are much too ignorant to discuss official affairs. 3. That the Magistrate in America does not take cognizance of ecclesi- astical affairs and, therefore, the question cannot be decided before the civil court. Knowing this, they wanted to call names freely until the matter was settled by the Magistrate, that is, without end. 4. They pretend that I have done van Dieren an injustice and must make it good before the Magistrate. Then they must summon me and not expect that I shall be my own complainant. 5. For the same reason they could not summon me or make me appear on account of this church matter before the authorities. There- fore, in order to be able to settle the matter before the civil authorities, I had, with the consent of my congregation, the following writing printed and distributed; and this 6. So much the more, because some members of my congregation wanted, by writ, to attach the farmers, their neighbors and relatives. To you, Joh. Bernhard van Dieren, deceased member and lost sheep of the Lutheran congregation, misleader of the ignorant, shunner of the light and servant of darkness, who in all stupidity causes separation in the congrega- tions, evades proof and indulges in all sorts of deceit, lies, denials and slander against public testimony and writings; first-born of the devil on account of such qualities, rascal and arch-scoundrel before all men, for the following reasons: Here follows, with minor variations, the text of Michael Christian Knoll's Printed Letter [dated before August, 1735], above. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 223 Upon such declaration now, since by the word "rascal" I had given and had been forced to give van Dieren a legal action or lawful opportunity to bring suit before the authorities, in order to impose silence on his adherents and not make it appear as if I could not or would not prove the matter before the magistrate, he could have haled me before the magistrate and have de- manded proof and, as he well knows, it would have cost me my honor and reputation if I could not prove it and my office as well as my family would be lost, for being recorded before the court as liar would deprive me of all my hearers, as I am certain that many were waiting to see if they could find some charge against me. Van Dieren's people, as Mr. Schleydorn tells me, have consulted a lawyer, and although Mr. Schleydorn told him to go ahead, he would give him some money into the bargain and he knew well that he would thereby do me a service, the light-shy van Dieren nevertheless once more hid behind his farmers and through these his instruments once more wanted to use and practice his art of lying, defying and slandering, since the farmers of Schog- gari [Schoharie], on Aug. 5, Anno 1735, had the attached lampoon printed. In connection with which it is to be observed: 1. That van Dieren himself did not sign it and with the farmers I have nothing to do. 2. That the place of the court of the authorities is changed. According to the above announcement of the Hakkinsakkers I was to make good my accusations at Hakkensack; according to the pretention of these people at Scoggari, whither I, with 20 or more men as witnesses, would have to travel more than 60 German miles, at great expense, and look them up in the woods. 3. They say in fact that I have falsely accused them; therefore, they must go after me and make me appear before the magistrate, whereas they should say that I must keep silent until I am summoned. 4. There are in this writing a number of plain lies and slanders and op- probrious words which according to the law of this country cannot be punished, so that I can do nothing about them, but he can ruin me when he will, if it is true that I falsely accused him or wrote anything that I cannot prove, so let him go ahead. But he knows very well that my witnesses and the evidence are ready and he keeps silent to his shame. 224 The New York Public Library But I have gained this: 1. That the call of Tolpenhagen has not been sent. 2. That already two families among his adherents have come back to us. 3. That when in my presence, at a funeral, he wanted to pronounce the benediction, he had to his shame to remain silent. 4. That, his credit at Hakkinsak being entirely gone, he now must depart for Scoggari. 5. That his adherents exhibit their wickedness with such evil words and deeds that they become liable at law, so that shortly three of them will appear in court. May God further help and bless his adherents and trample the devil under foot, for Jesus' sake, Amen. Arch. Ev. L. Ch. at Amst. Portfolio America. o o o LETTER from Rev. Johannes Spaler to the Amsterdam Consistory. Sep- tember 27, 1736 Very Reverend, Highly Esteemed and Most Learned Gentlemen and dear Bretheren in Christ, etc.: I now have, as far as I can remember, for a year refrained from writing to your Reverences, in the hope that I would have nothing to complain to you about. My voyage, however, was undermined and obstructed by many troubles caused by Berkemeyer. He has heretofore by all sorts of tricks and slights secured a following for himself in my congregation who, as godless people without conscience, with tongues burning with the fire of hell, have attacked me with all sorts of lying slanders, thereby started rows in the con- gregation, scandalized the innocent, strengthened the evil minded, inter- fered with religious services and opened the door wide to Satan and all wickedness. Like the first year I have ever since, as far as the strength which God has given me allowed, performed my ministerial duties heartily and faithfully and no one can with a good conscience accuse me of any error or laziness, or charge me with having led a scandalous life. But this crime and great sin I commit that in no respect will I be subordinate to Berkemeyer, especially as in the beginning my congregation would not allow me at all to subject myself to him, for reasons of which in former years I have notified your Reverences, and I shall not do so hereafter either. Also, particularly, because he and Knoll, and the elders and congregation of van Duren on the other hand, have by openly posted slanders and proofs of rascality caused such The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 225 an awful horror and scandal that one is ashamed of it before others. And although I esteem the party of van Diiren as little as the others, yes, would not put him beside you, yet I am confident that van Duren in his quiet way and bona simplicitate with his admonitions does more good than these men with all their learning. Of the reasons why Berkemeyer heretofore has urged upon me various undertakings and practices and attempted various encroachments on my office, yes, even looks for them in the press, I know none more important than that I insist on the collections, as I learn that in the past years large sums have been sent to me, without any one knowing for what they have been used. And as no better expedient can be found to be shortly relieved of such vexatious matters than this : Spaler's mouth must be stopped, or he must be sent away, it is no wonder quod terram moveat et misceat aethera ponto and that all he can ad arma vocet. And whereas I have also heard that Berke- meyer has sent a good many complaints to Amsterdam to put me in a pickle with your Reverences, and he has largely lost credit here for not telling the truth, I have no doubt that he would trick me with lies, of which on June 15, 1734, he gave a sample to the Ministerium at London, to whom as a shameless liar he blackened me as a religion mixer and an indifferentist, which slander and lies I can by public written testimony refute before my congregation as well as the Reformed congregation. He nevertheless seeks to help himself by his denunciation and to them a profitable opinion from Amsterdam is daily to be expected. In consideration thereof, I am with due respect moved to request that it may please your Reverences to send me for my necessary justification extendum protocolli ecclesiastici at. . . eleemosinarii, whence the collections come and how much they amount to and how much was sent to this country; also, besides this information, Berkemeyer 's accusations against me, which no doubt are signed also by his partisans. I shall prove in this case that I can be and shall remain, Your Reverences' willing servant and mediator, Mag. Joh. Spaler Ev. Luth. Pastor at Queensberg and Rheinbek Written in haste at New York, Sept. 27, 1736 P. S. While I am here, a member of van Duren's congregation offers to send over the above-mentioned letter of slander and vilification as well as the answer to it. 226 The New York Public Library To be opened by: The Very Reverend, Highly Esteemed and Highly Learned Gentlemen, the Praesidi, Assessoribus and other Collegis of the Laudable Consistory of the Ev. Luth. Church at Amsterdam. To be delivered to: Domine Hafer at Amsterdam. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] « o « LETTER from Johann David Wolff, Deacon of the Lutheran Church in New York, to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 18, 1742 New York, 18 May, 1742 Right Reverend, Highly Learned Gentlemen, Reloved and Honored Fathers in Christ: By virtue hereof your Right Reverences will please take the trouble to order Messrs. the Widow Albertus & John Hodshon, merchants, to purchase a Dutch Lutheran Postilla, to wit, one that is clear, edifying and not too prolix, on the Gospels and the Epistles, in case such are to be had, but that of Osiandrus, in folio, we have. This book is sought for our New York con- gregation and I doubt not but your Right Reverences will be pleased to make such provision for our congregation. Should your Right Reverences prefer to double the effort and buy one yourselves and call upon the said merchants for the money, they have orders to pay the same and to send the book to us with some hymnals. We should also like to know what kind of postillas have been translated into Dutch and whether copies are to be had of Masius' "Difference between the Lutherans and the Reformed." Commending your Right Reverences' congregation, persons and families to God's blessing, I remain with all veneration, Right Reverend and Highly Learned Gentlemen, Beloved and Honored Fathers, Your Right Reverences' willing servant, Joh. David Wolf, Deacon Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o LETTER from the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 24, 1743 Right Reverend, Devout, Highly Learned, Noble, Honorable, Affectionate Patrons and Brethren in Christ: Your Right Reverences' letter by the Rev. C. Tisteyn, dated August 17, 1742, 91 was in the following month of January, to the joy and satisfaction 91 This letter missing. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 227 of our congregation, brought to us by the delegate, with the following [books]: Mayer's Postilla on the Gospels for Sundays and Festivals Manne, Postilla on the Gospels Velten, about the Augsburg Confession and Catechismus Lutheri . . . , about the Suffering and Death of J. C. Masius, Short treatise on the difference between the Lutherans and the Reformed We thank God for having inclined the hearts of the Right Rev. Consistory toward us and for showing us such evident tokens of their unity in spirit and their love for us. May the Lord reward the Right Rev. Consistory and remember this their benefaction for the good of them all and the dear con- gregation in the form of many blessings. One more favor we should like to ask of you, namely, to inquire at the office of the heirs of Laasby & Nieuwgaard, deceased, for an answer and if there is any money due, to receive and keep the same until further order. With all veneration and respect we are, Right Reverend, Noble and Hon- orable Gentlemen, Your Right Reverences and Honors' humble servants, The Consistory of the Congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augs- burg Confession in New York, Michael Christian Knoll, Pastor Laurens van Boskerk Charel Beckman Jacobus van Boskerk George Pettersson Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 7th of August . . . Anno 1743. A letter was read from the Consistory of our congregation in New York, dated May 24, 1743, signed by Michael Christiaan Knol, Pastor, and some other members, stating that they received with much joy and satisfaction the letter written by D. us Tistein in the name of this Consistory under date of August 17, 1742, together with the accompanying books sent and presented to them by this Rev. Consistory, and thanking this Reverend Consistory for those evident tokens of love shown to their congregation and wishing the said Consistory in return God's rich blessing and reward. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 7, page 464. 228 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 22, 1746 Right Reverend, Devout, Highly Learned, Noble, Honorable and Very Affectionate Patrons and Rrethren in Christ: Through the following circumstances we find ourselves compelled to address ourselves to your Right Reverend Consistory in order to implore for ourselves your very affectionate and fatherly assistance. This winter there arrived here a man who calls himself Mag. Joh. Ludwig Hofgoed and who claims that for 22 years he has been specialis in Groot Ingersheim, or Gross Ingersheim, in Wurtemberger Land. He pretends to have preached too strongly against the Papists and for that reason to have been removed from the service, but in such a way that his Duke again wanted to give him a smaller parish, which, however, he would not accept, and that he preferred to flee to this country. Coming here, he passed himself off among the people for a pastor, and some of the High German brethren, who are members of our congregation, requested with him that he might hold in our church a thanks- giving service on account of his voyage. Being asked about that, he said that he had his testimonials, but when one of the deacons who had questioned him, with our elder, came to examine the attestations, he had nothing but a traveling pass as a merchant, which pass, he says, was given to him by the local pastor, Mr. Mag. Faber, and the city schout or Schutheiss [sheriff]. To the question where the certificates of his call and dismissal were, he answered that it was not customary in Wurtemberger Land to issue written calls. Being asked for his Magister diploma, he said that he had forgotten it; it was a large document on parchment. Our leaders thereupon would not let him preach, but in order not flatly to refuse the High Germans, they took the matter under consideration. It was left to the elder; from him Hofgoed was to receive orders, but instead of going thither, he came on Sunday morning, at the last ringing of the bell, into the house of one of the deacons, who thought that the elder had given his consent, and went with him to church. Our pastor, on hearing this, came from the country, where he serves in the winter, and, speaking with him, expressed his surprise that the said Hofgoed, a former pastor, having come hither from the fatherland or from any congregation of brethren in Europe without attestation, had dared to preach in our church. Hofgoed's answer was that he wanted to go to Pennsylvania, which he on Sunday in our con- gregation had also promised to do; he would not intrude himself upon our congregation, which he also promised to our two deacons before the elder The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 229 spoke with him the first time. But as soon as our pastor left for his winter home he wanted to preach again, which was refused. Therefore the High Germans wanted to make him preach in the city hall and when the authorities would not allow that, he preached in various houses and also took charge of several outlying places, as one at Backway, which belongs to our group, and one at Staatsborg, which belonged to Domine Berkenmeyer's circuit. The provincial authority, our Hon. Governor, ordered him to show his abilities and qualifications to prove that he was a properly trained and ordained pastor, and although we let him know that we could give him no certificate thereof and also would have nothing to do with him because our opinion of him was sufficiently known to him, his High German friends kept on applying, until, on the 11th of April, he was admitted to the Consistory meeting, where he acknowledged that it was all right, if only he had enough to eat, and thereafter, positively, that he had nothing against it and must keep silent, at least until he received his attestations. But such confession of what was right did not prevent him from preaching on the following Sunday, from allowing himself to be engaged as pastor for four years, and from preaching on April 20th his inaugural sermon from I Thess. 3:11, whereby he tried to prove that a call by men extended to men and written on paper was a human thing, but when God by immediate attraction directed the preacher's way into the hearts of his hearers, such was the divine call. Traveling to Bachway, he said during an instruction in the Catechism that the Christians, if they wished, could exchange the Sunday against a weekday, it made no difference on which day public service was performed. In our Consistory he tried to tell us that we did wrong in calling ourselves Lutherans; we should call ourselves Evangelicals. He has baptized children without giving them any blessing. The person of this Hofgoed is the more suspicious to us as in coming here he did not bring so much as a Bible, Prayer Book or Hymnal with him; because he came over in company of people, who, having fled from great maltreatment like counterfeiters, had fallen under suspicion; because this Hofgoed was driven from his first charge because he occupied one bed with a woman of 18 or 20 years whom he brought with him; he calls her his daughter. As far as our High Germans are concerned, they all understand Dutch, but for the sake of their better understanding they are on Communion days allowed a penitential sermon in German. Three years ago they were granted one sixth part of the Sunday services and, although they did not make good 230 The New York Public Library use of it, on their renewed application they were granted one fourth part thereof, with offer of a Sunday early morning or evening service, or a meeting on a weekday for sermons and instruction in the catechism in German, and all this without paying any money. In addition to the sixth and fourth part it was promised to give them more Sundays if they came diligently to church, but these egotistical people rejected this and would not approve the changing off of German and Dutch services. Instead, they, those foreign- ers, though few in number and contributing little or nothing toward the support of religion, wanted to force our Dutch members, also few in number, to introduce the use of nothing but German, which is an altogether unfair pretension. We are hoping, it is true, that such irregularities will disappear of themselves, but nevertheless, as we live here among -all sorts of opponents belonging to different faiths and these people with all sorts of lies, slanders and schisms follow their own mind, and the authorities have their hands full with all sorts of troubles, on account of the war, our congregation is quite upset about it, not to mention the ruination and the loss which our congre- gation may expect from such schism. All this taken together has moved us to apply to your Right Reverend Consistory for good advice and instruction for ourselves and our erring brethren, namely, whether we can regard such a man, who knows the law of God and the Church and who for the sake of his bread and butter abandons the law, as a pious Christian? (2) Whether we can admit one as a pastor who brings with him nothing but a merchant's pass, and who, without the consent of the pastors and of the Consistory, ventures to preach in the churches and, when this is forbidden him, preaches in the houses? (3) Whether he can be called a Lutheran pastor who brings no attestations with him and nevertheless forces himself in; who on April 11 acknowledges that he himself must have testimonia and on the 20th, rejecting all regular calls, falls back on direct divine call; who lets himself be installed in office for four years; and who, also of his own accord, changes the ceremonies, such as blessing the children after baptism. Our second humble request to your Right Reverences is whether it would not be found convenient and proper to make inquiry of the government, or at the University or of some Consistory in Wurtemberger Land regarding this M. Joh. Ludwig Hofgoed, for 22 years former specialis in Gross Inger- sheim, in order that, when we could find out who he really is and what happened to him, under God's blessing all this disturbance might be settled and quieted. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 231 The Supreme Shepherd and sole Lord of His churches will credit your Right Reverences with the trouble involved herein as a service rendered in His name and as deserving many blessings and, remembering your highly important congregation and families with much mercy, guard one and all against all evil. This is the sincere wish of us who have the honor to call ourselves, with all veneration, Right Reverend and Highly Learned, Noble, Honored Gentlemen, Your Right Reverences and Honors' humble servants, The Consistory of the Congregation adhering to the Unaltered Confession of Augsburg Michael Christian Knoll, Pastor George Petterson Charel Beckman Johann David Wolff [Addressed]: To the Right Reverend, Devout and Highly Learned Mr. President and the Hon. Assessors of the Right Reverend Consistory adhering to the Unaltered Confession of Augsburg, our very affectionate and highly honored Patrons and Friends, at Amsterdam Sent from New York, May 22, 1746. r , A . rn ^ . , . * Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. IPortfoho America.] MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. September 7, 1746 Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 7th of September . . . Anno 1746. There was also read a letter from New York, dated May 22, 1746, and received under cover addressed to D. us Tisteyn, signed by D. us Michael Cnol, pastor of the Lutheran congregation there, and three members of that Consistory, complaining about the intrusion and setting himself up as a pastor of a man calling himself Johan Ludowig Hoffgoed, who claims to have been for 22 years specialis at Groot Ingersheim, situated in Wiirten- biirger Land, and asking our advice and counsel in the matter. Also, if pos- sible, to investigate whether the aforesaid Hofgoed has been pastor there and in what way he was dismissed from that service. Whereupon it was resolved to request D. us Klepperbein to dispatch the enclosed letter under cover to the Consistory at Hamburg, and to add in the name of this Reverend Consistory whether that Reverend Consistory will please make the requested investigation and undertake to send their findings to New York and also, for our guidance, to inform us thereof. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 8, page 13. 232 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 21st of Sep- . . . tember Anno 1746. D. us Klepperbein delivered to this meeting a duplicate of the letter from New York, of which the original was read at the Ordinary Consistory meet- ing, on the 7th of September last past. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 8, page 17. o o o LETTER from Friderich Wilhelm Frommann, counsel of the Consistory at Stuttgart, to the Rev. [ ], member of the Ministerium at Hamburg. October 18, 1746 Reverend and Highly Learned, Especially, Most Honored Pastor: Your Reverence's honored letter of August 31st, a[nm] c[urrentis], which I received only today, was the more agreeable to me as, besides the honor of the acquaintance with yourself, it at the same time also affords me the opportunity to give testimony to the truth, I hope for the good of the Church, in the matter referred to. Nothing whatever, namely, is known, either to me, notwithstanding the fact that it is now already the 16th year that I have the honor to sit in our princely Consistory, or to my reverend colleagues in the same (with the majority of whom I just had a chance to communicate about the subject of your letter ) , of one ministero ecclesiae of these parts, who called himself Johann Ludwig Hofguth, whether of former or more recent times, and all the circumstances about him which you were pleased to write to me seem to point to something fictitious and fraudulent. To illustrate this in some special manner, I have the honor to assure your Reverence that at Gross-Ingersheim, a hamlet situated in our diocese of Bietigheim, about 5 hours from Stuttgart, there formerly was no Specialat, but always and at all times only a village parson. The Specialat Decanat, or office of Superintendent ( which are synonymous terms ) , however, which has supervision over the entire Bietigheim diocese and hence, nominally, over the thereto belonging subordinate parish of Gross-Ingersheim, has always been established at Bietigheim, but within the memory of man has never, at either of these two places, or anywhere else in this country, been occupied by any one of that name. The further pretension of this man, that he was removed because he preached too strongly against the Catholics and by his Serene Highness was The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 233 offered another though less important office which, however, he refused to accept, rests likewise on an audacious groundless assertion, since, with reverent thanks, we have to ascribe it to the, under the old constitution of the Wurtemberg Church, constantly prevailing goodness of the All Highest and the magnanimity of our most gracious sovereign prince, that in our time there has never yet presented itself a case which can be said to have assumed any such form. Equally without foundation is the fictitious story of a pass which is sup- posed to have been given to him by the pastor of Gross-Ingersheim, whom he called Mag. Faber, and by the local sheriff, since according to our con- stitution it is not within the power of these officials to grant passes, but this power is reserved to our civil State officials, yes, in a certain measure, and at least in such a case as the one under discussion, is a privilege of the chancellery itself, not to mention the fact that the pastor who since many years has held and still actually holds the office at Gross-Ingersheim, is not called Mag. Faber, but Mag. Gallus Jacob Weisser. And although with us it is not exactly customary to hand to our stipendiaries written calls that are immediately binding, yet, special letters of appointment are issued to them and, if there were any foundation to his claim of having received an honorable discharge and of a decent opportunity having been opened to him to carry out his intention to seek his fortune elsewhere, testimonialibus Uteris (like those of which in similar cases examples are available), would without doubt not have been wanting either. Furthermore, if I now, together with the forgotten M agister certificate, take into consideration the public and secret preaching which, contrary to the express prohibition, he ventured to do; the partly openly false, partly, at least in our church, quite unusual doctrines and ritual which he pro- claimed; his refusal to show due obedience to his superiors; the unheard of circumstance that a theologian, yes, even a mere Christian private person, should allow himself to be found without the daily handbook, I mean, the dear Bible; the suspicious company in which he arrived; the fact that contrary to all decency he had with him in the same bed a grown-up, single woman, which seemed scandalous even to the landlord, in case even that she were his own lovely daughter, I for my part at least cannot conceal that whole com- bination of circumstances about this man seems to me exceedingly suspicious. May the Lord who is truth itself, who destroys the liars and has a horror of those who are false, in His wisdom soon bring to light the Mysterium iniquitatis that no doubt is hidden under this and may He himself mightily protect His Church against such interloping hirelings. 234 The New York Public Library To His gracious protection your reverence and the entire Summe Rev- erendo Ministerio are faithfully commended by him who has the honor with the utmost esteem to remain, Your Reverence's, my most highly honored pastor's, Most devoted servant, Friderich Wilhelm From mann Counselor of State of his Serene Highness of Wiirtemberg and counsel of the Consistory; also Advocatus Fisci Ecclesiastici Stuttgard, October 18, 1746 Amst Luth ch Arch Portfolio: Incoming LetteTS . o o o LETTER from the Ministerium at Hamburg to Rev. [Klepperbein?] Novem- ber 18, 1746 Grace and the Peace of God through Christ: Reverend and Highly Learned, Honorable Pastor, Fellow-brother and most worthy Patron: What your Reverence, under date of Sept. 13, a. c, in the name of the Right Reverend Evangelical Lutheran Consistory, sent to us, was duly de- livered to us on the 17th ej[usdem]. And in dutiful answer thereto we now inform you that already before, on the 22d of August, a. c, a letter of the same tenor came to us from the pastor and elders of the congregation in New York and that we thereupon endeavored through one from our midst who comes from Wiirtemberg to obtain information regarding the therein mentioned Hofguth. When, at last, reliable information was received from there that all his pretensions as to the office held by him there were one and all thoroughly false and fictitious, and that no one there knew anything about him, as the enclosed copy shows, we, in our regular meeting of the 4th hujus, in answer to the request sent to us from New York, and with citation of the information received from Wiirtemberg, drew up a circum- stantial letter of instruction and admonition, which, God willing, by the next mail will be sent via England to New York. We feel assured that your Honorable Consistory in this matter are of the same opinion as ourselves and will acknowledge it as fair that such a false and heretical Christian be in all earnest stopped and we therefore completely leave it to the choice of Consistory whether they wish to make use of our answer to the letter from New York, or whether, for further confirmation thereof, they wish to let another, separate warning and admonition go thither. We commend your Reverence to the faithful protection of the All Highest and wish you, for your most worthy person and holy office, all God's richest The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 235 blessing and, after recommending ourselves most respectfully to the laudable Consistory there, remain most obediently, Your Reverence's, our highly honored pastors, fellow- brothers and most worthy patron's dutiful servants, The Senior, pastors and all other preachers of the Reverend Ministerium there Hamburg, Nov. 18, 1746 Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio: Incoming Letters. o o e MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 21st of April . . . Anno 1751. A letter was read from the congregation in Pennsylvania, dated . . . , con- taining a request to have a collection taken up in Holland for their newly built church. Their request was denied, as being contrary to the resolution passed by us not to allow any foreign collections. D. us Klepperbein was requested to answer that letter. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 8, page 285. MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the fourth of July . . . Anno 1753. Further, there appeared also Philip Leydig and Joseph Hausen, the first born in Swabenhalle and the second in Hoberg, in Wurtenberg, and now residing in New York, requesting that they might take up a collection here for the building of a church at New York. Their request for a collection was refused. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 8, page 490. LETTER from the Consistory of the Lutheran Church at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. February 4, 1754 Right Reverend Fathers of the Consistory of the Evangelical Church at Amsterdam: We are assured that your Reverences have been informed by the Reverend Mr. Zugenhagen, in England, about the present state of our church here 236 The New York Public Library in the city of New York, which begins to rise again from its ashes, for which the Lord be praised. May He further grant His blessing. We hereby take the liberty to trouble your Reverences with this letter and humbly to ask your Reverences to assist our congregation with fifty copies of the Marnburg Hymnal, for the use of our church here, as there is a great lack of them here, to wit, in the Dutch language. In expectation of your Reverences' fatherly assistance in regard to our humble request, we remain with great respect, Right Reverend Gentlemen, Your Reverences' humble servants, Johann Albert Weygand, pastor Chajrel Beckman Johann David Wolff Heinrich Seefer ( ? ) George Pettersen New York, February 4, 1754. J" ^enagens MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the seventeenth of April Anno 1754. There was also read a letter, dated February 4, 1754, from the consistory of our congregation at New York, and signed by their pastor, Johan Albert Weygand, and five members of the consistory, requesting us to send them fifty printed Dutch copies of the Marnburg Hymnal, for use in their church. Whereupon it was resolved to reply to the aforesaid consistory as follows: Reverend, much beloved Friends and Fellow Brethren in Christ: We received your Reverences' letter, dated February 4, 1754, and from it learned your Reverences' request. In answer thereto this serves to say that we have no Marnburg Hymnals and that they are unknown to us. Where- with, after hearty greetings, we remain, Your Reverences' very affectionate friends and fellow-brethren in Christ, By order of this Consistory and in their name, [Not signed] Amsterdam, April 20, Anno 1754 [Addressed:] To the Reverend Consistory of the Lutheran Congregation at New York Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 8, page 563. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 237 MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the second of July Anno 1755. After resumption and approval of the minutes of the last meeting held on June 18th, there appeared before this Assembly Mr. Johan Gasser, Re- formed minister at Santee Forks, in South Carolina, having been delegated by the foreigners residing there, both of the Reformed Church and of our Confession, requesting a generous gift for the purchase of some Bibles and other devotional books for the same. His Reverence was told by D us . Klep- perbein, pro tempore Praeses, in the name of this Assembly, that the reso- lution of the Consistory would be made known to his Reverence in a few days. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 8, page 622. AFFIDAVIT of several sea captains, in behalf of the Lutheran Church at New York, to the Amsterdam Consistory 92 November 28, 1758 We, the undersigned, all members of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, solemnly declare, at the request of this congregation in New York, how we daily more and more notice and experience the need and misery in which said congregation finds itself, due to the daily increase of poor and needy members, as a result of which they are unable to support a pastor on a proper salary, which we are exceedingly sorry to see, considering the faithful zeal of their pastor, Mr. John Albert Weygand, who in all respects shows himself to be a faithful and sincere promoter of our true religion, and who in the state of oppression in which at present we find ourselves here causes us to enjoy much consolation and comfort. Having considered all this and wishing, if possible, to have them receive some support, we have resolved among ourselves to make the need and misery of this congregation known to your Honors, our Very Reverend Pastors and Consistory at Amsterdam, in order that in your kind and fatherly providence you might support them in their need, for the upbuilding of God's true Church, for which purpose we most strongly recommend them to your Honors. Done in New York, the 28th of November, 1758. Jan Lindeboom Carsten Mulder David Seebach NlCOLAES H DIKES Laurens Eman Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 92 See letter of Dec. 4, 1758, with which letter this affidavit was enclosed. 238 The New York Public Library LETTER from the Lutheran Consistory at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. [December 4, 1758] Right Reverend, Highly Learned, Highly Honored President and Assessors of the Venerable Consistory at Amsterdam. Much beloved Fathers in Christ: It is no doubt known to your Right Reverences that the Evangelical Church in North America has since many years lain in the pains of childbirth, with- out having brought forth a well-formed Evangelical church to the glory of Zion's God. The principal causes of these difficulties are in part the general troubles with which the Christian Church everywhere has to contend, but in part they are also special, peculiar only to North America, populated by people from all nations, English, Swedes, Danes, Hollanders, German, Frenchmen, Swiss, etc., and, what is the saddest part of it, largely taken from the work- houses and penal institutions, the scum of Europe, with few exceptions. To administer congregations gathered from such sources according to God's Word and Christian Ordinances causes great grief to servants of Jesus, who lack the support of political authorities and of a consistory which has power and commands respect, and who in addition are laboring to erect churches and schools. This is the general complaint of my North-American fellow-brethren, of whom there are more than 30, aside from the so-called tramps. 93 With the first mentioned difficulties our New York church has struggled for many years, as your Right Reverences will to some extent still remember. But through God's goodness a congregation has now been gathered and estab- lished here of more than one hundred resident families who, ruled accord- ing to the Church Ordinance recommended by your Right Reverend Con- sistory, have now reached a flourishing state, for which we cannot sufficiently praise Jehovah's favor. But, as God's Church here on earth is hardly ever without difficulties, the same is true here. A small group of seceded irregular persons, who begged their way all over Germany, but to the best of our knowledge never paid a cent for the house bought by them, and from whom since many years a collector stays away, cause us at times great sorrow and offense by engaging unordained and unqualified pastors, who administer the sacraments among them to the great scandal of other sects, although it is not quite as bad any more, since within a month 30 families simul- taneously left them. Furthermore, through an unexpected increase of our congregation, the church was forced to build three galleries and, on account of lack of burying places to buy a house and lot adjoining our cemetery, 93 landloopers; literally, tramps, though interlopers might be the better word. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 239 which alone cost 610£, New York currency. Consequently, because very few well-to-do persons belong to our congregation, our church labors under great difficulties. And since your Right Reverences' congregations already have done so much for our church and many other churches that they would have the fullest right to write: "What more can we do for you?," as I myself can very well remember from the protocol, and furthermore the other father- land churches have become tired of so many fake collections, we had not the least intention of presenting our lamentations to your Right Reverences. But inasmuch as through the present sad accidents of war several captains have arrived here, namely, Captains Lindeboom, Zeebach, Eman, Hikesson, and Muller, they themselves have urged us to make our need known to your Right Reverences, at the same time offering their own attestation, which is inclosed herewith. 94 With which likewise may be compared the attestation of his Excellency our Governor, 95 given to us at the time when we wrote to your Right Reverences and the Reverend Hamburg Consistory the reasons of the separation of the above mentioned group, to which, however, we never received any answer. Should your Right Reverences now, in consideration of our present need, be pleased to request your churches to take up a collection for our church, such gifts would be used not only for the good of our church and congre- gation, but the name of the Lord would be praised, many of our souls con- cerned about the great costs would be encouraged, and the fame of the Amsterdam Zion would be perpetuated. In humble expectation of a favorable answer, we have the honor to sign ourselves, Right Reverend Gentlemen, much beloved fathers in Christ, Your humble and obedient servants, Joh. Albert Weygand, pastor Charel Beckman Jacobus van Boskerk Johann David Wolff Georce Pettersson Charles Beekman JuN r . Johann Baltias Daesch Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] 94 See affidavit of Nov. 28, 1758. 95 See following copy dated April 22, 1754, with affidavit thereto dated Dec. 4, 1758. 240 The New York Public Library CERTIFICATE accompanying the copy of Governor De Lancy's certificate of April 22, 1754. Dated December 4, 1758. We, the undersigned, certify that this is a correct and true copy of the original. Laurens Eeman David Seebach xt \7 1 a a n 1 -?co carsten mulder New York, 4 Dec. A . 1758. CERTIFICATE issued by James DeLancy. [April 22, 1754.] 96 By the Honorable James De Lancy Esquire, His Majestys Lieutenant Governor, and Commander in Chief in and over the Province of New York, and the territories thereon depending in America. To all to whom these presents shall come or may concern Whereas the Minister and Elders of the old Lutheran Church in this City, have by their humble Petition lately presented, unto me set forth, that from an unhappy division among the Congregation of the said Church, divers of them separated themselves, and endeavored to erect a new one, and form a new Congregation independent of the old privileged Lutheran Church but being unable to themselves to accomplish the same, prayed and obtained a Brief from the late Governor Clinton to collect money within this Province for that purpose: And finding that insufficient, did delegate and sent two persons by name Philip Leydig, and Joseph Houser with cre- dentials to Europe to ask alms and contributions for the Lutheran Church in New York, without mentioning the unhappy division, that occasioned their separation from the old Church: and by that device had gathered some monies, and thereby imposed upon many people in Europe. That the Pe- tioners are informed by letters and otherwise, that part of the money gath- ered by the Agents of the said separates, remains now in the hands of par- ticular persons there, who are unwilling to deliver the same until they have a more particular account, transmitted to them by the Petitioners, of the design for which that money was collected. And that the Petitioners being desirous, that their Bishops and other persons in Europe, who have already contributed, or might contribute, to the said separates, might be no longer 96 Enclosed with letter of the Lutheran Consistory at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory, dated Dec. 4, 1758, q.v. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 241 deceived and imposed upon by them or their Agents: therefore humbly prayed me to grant them a Certificate under the great Seal of this Province, certifying that they are the Minister and Elders of the old privileged Lutheran Church in the City of New York; and that the Church, for which the said alms had been gathered, is separated from it, and doth still continue so separated. Having therefore taken the matter of the said Petition into consideration, and finding that the old Lutheran Congregation in this City, have been privileged by all or most of the Governors of this Province, and under that sanction enjoyed the full and free exercise of their religion, from the first settlement of the English in this country in the year 1669, to the present time, and still continue in the same exercise thereof by sundry acts of the said Governors. I have therefore thought fit to make known the same to all persons, and further that the Church of the old Lutheran Congregation now in this City, is erected in a street called the Broad Way, which was the only Church belonging to the people of that religious profession, in this City, until a few years ago, a number of persons, upon some dissentions among the Congregation separated themselves, and purchased a house, which they converted into a place of public worship, and still use the same as such: who soon after their separation, obtained a Brief or License from the late Governor Clinton, to collect money for building a Church, and towards enabling them to maintain a Minister. And I do further certify and make known, that John Albert Weygand, is the present reputed Minister and Pastor of the said Lutheran Church, so privileged as aforesaid; and that Charles Beekman, Jacobus Van Boskerk, John David Woolf, George Peter- son, Henry Schafer, and Jochum Melchior Magens are the present reputed Elders and Deacons of the said Church; which also appears to me by the records of the said Church regularly kept and preserved by that Congre- gation. In Testimony and Proof whereof I have to this Instrument of Writing signed my name and caused the great Seal of the Province of New York to be affixed thereto. Given at Fort George in the City of New York the 22 Day of April, in the year of Lord 1754, in the 27 year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Second by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith and so forth. James DeLancy Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.! 242 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 17th of January . . . Anno 1759. Further, there was read a letter, without date, 97 from New York in North America, signed by the pastor, Joh. Albert Weygand, Charles Beekman, Jacobus van Boskerk, Johan David Wolff, George Petterson, Charles Beek- man Junior, and Johan Balthias, in which they give a full account of the condition of their congregation and communicate their lack of means for the support of their pastor and to make the necessary repairs to their church They request us to take up a collection for them in our congregations and with the letter send over two enclosures: one, an attestation dated New York, November 28, 1758, signed by five members of our Augsburg Con- fession, namely, Jan Lindeboom, Nicolaas Hilkes, Carsten Mulder, David Seebach and Laurens Eeman, in which they make known the necessitous condition of the above mentioned congregation and request us for that reason to give them some support; and the other a copy of the attestation, in English, signed by three of our brethren in the faith at New York, named Laurens Eeman, David Seebach and Carsten Mulder, dated December 4, 1758, formerly addressed to the Hamburg Ministerium. It was resolved, provisionally, to lay this letter aside, unanswered, for two months. Amst . Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 9, page 180. o o o MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the twenty-first of . . . March Anno 1759. There were taken up for discussion the letter from our brethren in the faith at New York, and its two enclosures, which were read at our ordinary Consistory meeting of the 17th of January of this year, 1759, and it was resolved to answer them as follows: Reverend and dearly beloved Friends and Brethren in Christ: We duly received your Reverences' letter without date, together with the two enclosures, and have taken their contents into consideration. Al- though we readily believe the necessitous condition of your church, this serves to let you know that we cannot resolve to take up a collection for your Reverences among our congregations, or to grant you any assistance, as 97 See letter of [Dec. 4, 1758] above. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 243 we have enough to do with our domestic congregations, in order to provide them, as far as it is possible for us to do so, with the necessary assistance. Wherewith, after hearty greetings, we remain, Your Reverences' very affectionate friends and brethren in Christ, By order of this Consistory and in their name, [Not signed] Amsterdam, March 21, Anno 1759. [Addressed:] To the Reverend Consistory of the Lutheran Congregation at New York. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 9, pages 188, 189. e * o LETTER from the Lutheran Consistory at New York to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 7, 1761 Right Reverend, Highly Learned, Highly Honored Gentlemen, President and worthy members of the Right Reverend Consistory. Much esteemed Fathers in Christ: Your Right Reverences will without doubt be very much surprised hereby again to receive a letter from New York, inasmuch as some years ago, on the advice of Captains Hilkes, Corneliussen, Muller, Johnson, Lindeboom, etc., a petition was sent to you by us, your humble petitioners, which by an altum silentium might be considered to have been sufficiently answered. But the bearer hereof, Mr. Nicolaas de Ronda, son-in-law of one of our consistory members, born in Arnhem, having praised to us the generosity of the Amster- dam congregation, and our urgent need, we having, besides bearing the great expense in connection with the enlargement of our church, now begun to build a large school, have induced us once more humbly to petition your Right Reverend Fathers for some assistance. We can readily believe that your congregations, on account of the mis- fortunes of war in Germany, receive very many applications for help. The consideration hereof would almost have deterred us, if the above named Mr. de Ronda had not remonstrated to us that nevertheless, at Amsterdam and other places, there might perhaps still be found some generous souls [who would be willing to help], if our miserable state were made known to them by your Right Reverences, especially at his birthplace, Arnhem, since the Episcopal Church, from England, the Presbyterian Church, from Scotland, and the Reformed Church, from Holland, receive considerable sums and our brethren in Europe are not less generous than others. 244 The New York Public Library We therefore renew our humble petition to your Right Reverences to be pleased to provide some small assistance from your congregations, or to furnish the aforesaid Mr. de Ronda with a recommendation to such con- gregations in Holland as your Right Reverences may approve to give it to. We hereby solemnly declare before God that we shall devote all gifts re- ceived to no other use than that of God's church and our school building; and Mr. de Ronda has given us sufficient security that we have no doubt of the faithful delivery of what he will receive. Almighty God grant the Right Reverend Lutheran Consistory at Amsterdam the joy of hearing from the New York Evangelical Church much favorable comment to the praise of God. Humbly praying that you will pardon our boldness, we have the honor to sign ourselves, Right Reverend fathers, Your humble and obedient servants, John Albert Weygand George Pettersson New York, May 7, 1761. Laurens Eeman P. S. The author hereof humbly asks pardon for the poor style of this letter, because, being a German, he is still learning the Dutch language. [Addressed:] To the Right Reverend Evangelical Lutheran Consistory at Amsterdam. Sent by: Nicolaas de Ronda, merchant at New York. Inquire at Jan de No- ville's [de Neuville's], in the bend of the Heeregragt, [at Amsterdam]. Lodg- ing at the house of the Widow Jan van Nuys, at Arnhem. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the third of June . . . Anno 1761. After resumption and approval of the minutes of the ordinary meeting held on May 20th, and last held on the 21st at the examination of Candidate Salomon Fredrik Miiller, there appeared upstairs Joseph Hausel, delegate from the German Lutheran congregation at New York, requesting for that congregation some assistance. His request was denied and there was communicated to him what in the year 1759 was written by this Rev. Consistory to the Dutch Lutheran con- gregation there, whereby the request for assistance from that congregation was also rejected. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 9, page 303. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 245 MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the second of Sep- . . . tember Anno 1761. There was also read a letter dated May 7, 1761, from our Dutch Lutheran congregation at New York, signed by their pastor, D us . John Albert Wey- gant, George Pettersson and Pr. Laurens Eeman, whereby they request some assistance for their newly to be built school, and, if we approve the same, to send the money to their honors, or to deliver the same to their delegate, Nicolaas de Ronde, who is now making a trip to his birthplace, Arnhem, and who at present is in this city. Further, to furnish said delegate with some letters of recommendation to our congregations in Holland, in order to solicit some assistance for their congregation. There was further read the commission, dated May 7, 1761, granted by the said congregation to the aforesaid Nicolaas de Ronde, and signed as above. This letter was referred to Messrs. the Elders. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 9, page 314. « o o REQUEST from the Elders and Deputies of the Congregation of Loonen- burg, Newton and Diskedamernesie to the Amsterdam Consistory to call a J?3.stor America, Province of New York, County of Albany, Loonenburg, the 8th of October, 1766 Right Reverend, Highly Learned, Most Honorable Gentlemen, Very Kind Patrons and Bretheren in Christ: Whereas the Reverend Mr. Michael Christian Knoll, our faithful, zealous and beloved pastor, has reached a high old age and to our great grief and sorrow has resigned laid down his office and charge, we confidently and with all due submission take the liberty to turn to the Right Reverend and Most Honorable Consistory at Amsterdam, our highly honored fathers, patrons and brethren, with the cordial request to look upon our sorrow and loss with a benevolent heart and as soon as possible to provide us with another pastor and teacher to whom we can trust our souls. To this end we have conferred together and bound ourselves, with our congregation and those families to whom we, as elders and deacons, before God and His Holy Church, leave the care of the congregation on the Last Day: I. Most humbly to request the Right Reverend Consistory at Amsterdam as above to take fatherly care of us and in our name to seek, to appoint, to 246 The New York Public Library choose, to call and according to the usage of our Church to ordain a pastor, at the initiative and according to the pleasure of the Right Reverend Con- sistory, in whom we place full confidence that they will heartily adopt our congregation and gladly promote their best interests. II. We have, as is the custom here in this country, made a subscription for the annual salary, amounting to £60 — New York currency, which it is our custom to pay each and every year, namely, each half year. In addition to the salary, there is here at Looneburg, a good parsonage, on the river, furnished with a fine library, for the convenience and use of the pastor. And the congregation is accustomed and hereby binds itself to deliver free fire- wood before the door, and light and field products in kind or in money. Furthermore, it is our custom to lighten the kitchen expenses of the pastor by a so-called "huspot," 98 namely, a free offering when agreeable. A garden and pasture for one or more cows go with the parsonage, and for the winter extra feed for two cows is supplied. Firewood and feed are furnished by Looneburg and Claverack. It is also customary here to leave the pastor free four Sundays in the year and according to his pleasure to allow him to serve other congregations also and thereby to increase his salary. III. As far as the incidentals are concerned, such as fees for recording baptisms, marriages and deaths, etc., the same have caused much trouble in the congregation, but they have been: for entering a child, 1 s.; for marry- ing, at the house or in the church, 6 s., and in the country, 12 s. The feeling of the congregation about such incidentals is that they should now be abolished. Hereafter, the congregation may be reminded of them and our pastor may accept what in such cases may be voluntarily offered to him, which, weighing one thing against another, will in every way be better than a strict observance of prescribed incidentals. IV. We have agreed with the congregations belonging to our corporation that hereafter as before the services will be held in our meeting places as follows: Every Sunday regularly, except on the four free Sundays, first at Loonenburg in Dutch, and secondly in Newton and Diskedamernesie in German. During the summer months of May, June and July, services are held twice; during the other months once [each Sunday]. In connection with the celebration of Holy Communion, a penitential sermon is preached on Saturday, or, in traveling, on Sunday, before the main service, to be followed by the catechization of the young, according to the circumstances of time and of the congregation. 98 Apparently intended for the Dutch word "hutspot," a combination of meat, potatoes, carrots and onions, cooked together like an Irish stew. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 247 V. We have agreed to ask the Right Reverend Consistory for a pastor who binds himself to conduct his office according to the saving Word of God and the unaltered Augsburg Confession and our other symbolical books, and according to our Church Ordinance introduced among our congre- gations; a man who is pure in doctrine, prudent in celebrating the sacra- ments according to their institution by our Lord Jesus, dignified in cere- monies and brotherly according to the Church Ordinance and the custom of our predecessors and former pastors, the late Reverend and blessed Willem Christoph. Berkenmeyer, Mr. Knoll and Mr. Sommer, stationed at Schochary; a man of Christian life and edifying conduct. And such with this express declaration that on the other hand, eo ipso, he shall, without any exception or gainsay, be deprived of his service with us and be willing to leave, in case he be convicted of acting offensively, in doctrine, conduct, or ceremonies. VI. We have, according to our ability, been diligent in sending over in- closed £50 — of our money for traveling expenses and also intend, on the pastor's arrival, to have £10 — more ready as a present. If it is desired, we also promise to pay half a year's salary in advance as a help to the pastor, which, though it cannot be called anything much, nor can induce the pastor to come to us, nevertheless tends to assure us that he will consider our longing for God and religion and, in the expectation of God's blessing in time and eternity, will allow himself to be moved to undertake the voyage. Hoping and praying God that the Lord of the harvest will let your Right Reverences and Honors find a faithful pastor according to His heart who, with the rich blessing of the gospel, will come to us for the maintenance among us and our successors of the glory of God's name, His kingdom and His word, we promise and bind ourselves and in the name of our congregation under our hands and seals to accept the pastor to be called and ordained by your Right Rev- erences in response to this our request and power of attorney, when through God's blessing and safeguard he comes to us, with love and reverence as our pastor, regularly and faithfully to perform what is written above, and in all things, according to God's word, reverently and obediently, in word and deed, to lend him the helping hand, and in all things so to behave as it be- hooves pious Christians to conduct themselves toward their faithful pastor and spiritual adviser. Such fatherly care and trouble on the part of your Right Reverences and Honors, the Lord our God, whose honor and duty it is, will graciously accept as a good work and richly reward by manifold acts of grace and blessings of the Lord to your most honorable and worthy Consistory as a whole and to each of the families and persons thereof in particular, to whom, as we 248 The New York Public Library heartily wish it, we shall constantly pray God to grant it. From the bottom of our hearts we are, with all veneration, Right Reverend, Highly Learned, Most Honorable Gentlemen, Very Kind Patrons and Brethren in Christ, Your Right Reverences' and Honors' most faithful servants, the deputies from the church council of our congre- gation at Loonenburg, Newton and Diskedamernesie, Peter Nicolas Sommer, , xt tx / i \ Willem Halenbek (mark) Minister of the Lutheran T T , , N Joachim Jansen ( mark ) Congregation at Schogary r? t- ° ° ° J Evert Eversen Jan Caspar Haalenbek (mark) Philipp Spaan ( mark ) Willem Laucks Friedr Greisler Andreas Eigler ( True copy of the letter sent to Amsterdam, dated the 8th of October 1766. ) POSTSCRIPT to the Call for a Pastor sent by the Loonenburg Church to the Amsterdam Consistory Loonenburg, the 8th of October, 1766 Sfalvo] T[itulo]: Whereas the honorable and highly esteemed Mr. Robert Livingston, Jun r ., of the Manor of Livingston, who lives in our neighborhood, by word and deed offer's us the helping hand in issuing the call and at our request has agreed to forward the call with a bill of exchange to Amsterdam, he has considered it necessary to notify the Right Reverend and Most Honorable Consistory that the bill of exchange of £50 — , New York currency, for the pastor's voyage, will be sent to Mr. Daniel Cromelin, at the office of which said Mr. Daniel Cromelin, merchant at Amsterdam, the said money is to be demanded and collected. He has also advised us to explain some points of the call somewhat more clearly and to inform you that we have been already more than a year and a half without a pastor and that it is already that long ago that the Rev. old Mr. Knoll laid down his office. The Newton and Dis- kedamernesie [settlements] in our neighborhood lie each only three German leagues from Loonenburg. Services are held in turn, about 14 times at New- ton and only three times at Diskedamernesie, and the remaining Sundays at Loonenburg. It is also customary to have the pastor called for and brought The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 249 back to his house, in the summer on horseback, and in the winter in a com- fortable sleigh, accompanied by a member of the consistory. Furthermore, there is as much as ten morgens ( 20 acres ) of land or field available for the use and benefit of the pastor, on which a fine, new church building will soon be finished, situated close to the parsonage, which has a good, bearing orchard and other conveniences. This is what we very briefly wanted to explain clearly to the Right Rev- erend and Most Honorable Consistory and had to observe and add as a postscript [to the call], for their guidance. Willem Halenbek (mark) Philipp Spaan (mark) Joachim Jansen (mark) Willem Laucks Evert Eversen Frtedr Greisler Jan Casper Haalenbek (mark) Andreas Eigler ( True copy of an appendix or postscript belonging to and for the clear explanation of the call sent to Amsterdam, the 8th of October, 1766. ) LETTER from the Lutheran Church at Loonenburg to the Amsterdam Consistory. May 20, 1770 Loonenburg, May 20, 1770 Right Reverend, Highly Learned, Right Honorable, Most Estimable Gentle- men, Very kind Patrons and Brethren in Christ: Our cares and solicitations are well known to your Right Reverend and Honorable Consistory and we are also assured by Mr. Robert Livingston that our last letter was duly delivered to your Right Reverences. However, as more than three years have passed and we find ourselves in no better circumstances, nor are able to flatter ourselves by an esteemed answer that your Right Reverences have resolved to interest yourselves in us, your abandoned and afflicted orphans, you will very kindly pardon us if we once more take the liberty to trouble your Right Reverences and Honors. We most humbly remind you of our request and desire that you, Right Reverend and Honorable kind Patrons, Fathers and Bretheren in Christ, will please not forget the great interest of the soul of all of us, but remember how very necessary it is to further the efforts of an abandoned congregation which has true longing for God and religion to help itself. However, if there are any obstacles and you, Right Honorable Gentlemen, do not know of any way or opportunity to do so, you will please in a kind answer only inform us of your resolution. In expectation whereof, under dispensation of the 250 The New York Public Library Most High, with proper esteem and all respect we have the honor to sign ourselves. Right Reverend Honorable, Highly Learned, Most Estimable, Gentlemen, Very kind Patrons and Brethren in Christ. Your Right Reverences' and Honors' Most Devoted Servants, Willem Halenbeek Jan Casperse Halenbeeck Jochem Jansen Philip Spaan ( mark ) Evert Eversen Friederich Kreissler (mark) [Addressed: ] To the Gentlemen of the Reverend Consistory of the Lutheran Congregation of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] o o o MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the second of . . . January Anno 1771. A German letter was read, dated May 20, 1770, from Lonenberg, in New England," requesting an answer to their previous letter regarding some assistance. This letter was referred the gentlemen our Elders. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 9, page 355. o o o LETTER from the Lutheran Church at Loonenburg to the Amsterdam Consistory. June 14, 1771 Right Reverend, Highly Learned, Honorable, Most Estimable Gentlemen: Your Right Reverences and Honors will please pardon us if once more we are so bold as to trouble you. Your faithful servants thought that in re- sponse to such an urgent appeal and the great anxiety in which we find ourselves, your Right Reverend Consistory might be willing to lend the helping hand and to extend all possible aid and assistance to your abandoned congregation and brethren in the faith. Therefore, on the advice and by order of our honored gentlemen, we take the liberty to address ourselves to your Right Reverend Consistory. 99 Loonenburg, now Athens, N. Y. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 251 However, as all care and diligence, as it seems, have, alas, been exerted in vain, and in the course of five years, as you know, we have not even had the honor to obtain and to receive your valued resolution in the matter, we are exceedingly surprised and cannot understand it. Therefore, we are jointly disposed, without further loss of time, to settle the matter, and if, before the receipt of this present letter, you have not sent us a learned pastor who is on his way over, then your Right Reverences will please not trouble your- selves any further, but let the matter rest. Then, if the Lord is willing and grants us life, we plan to obtain counsel and help elsewhere. Until then we shall console ourselves with the help of God. We are deeply obliged for the trouble you have taken and your Right Reverences and Honors will please excuse us. Under dispensation of the Most High, we have the honor, with all veneration and esteem, to be, Right Reverend, Highly Learned, Honorable and Most Estimable Gentlemen, Your most devoted servants, Willem Hallenbeek ( mark ) Evert Eversen Jochem Janse (mark) Philip Spaan ( mark ) John C. Hallenbeek Andreas Eigler tvt xr i T i c i wi Friedrich Greisler New York, June 15, 1771. Gentlemen: Any letter you may have occasion to send to the Loonenburgh congre- gation will be received & forwarded to them, if directed to the care of Your most h b!e ser* Robert C. Livingston [Addressed: ] To the Gentlemen of the Reverend Consistory of the Lutheran Congregation adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession at Amsterdam Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] LETTER from the Lutheran Church at Loonenburg to the Amsterdam Con- sistory. December 2, 1771 T u u r> i J Loonenburg, December 2, 1771 Highly Honorable and Most Estimable Gentlemen: Your Right Reverences will please pardon us if once more we venture to disturb you. Your most humble servants thought that the Right Reverend Consistory might be disposed, and to some extent obliged, with all help and support to respond to the hearty appeal and solicitation of brethren 252 The New York Public Library in the faith, especially of those who live under a church ordinance which was recommended to us by your Right Reverences and which was introduced and has been observed by us until this day. For this reason, on the advice and by order of our authorities, we have taken the liberty to address our- selves to your Right Reverend Consistory. To our great surprise, however, we become aware that our efforts and the use of diligence on our part seem to be in vain, since in the space of five years we have not even had the honor to hear your resolution on the subject. It is true, the Hon. Mr. Robert Liv- ingston has delivered to us the original of the inclosed [memorandum] from Mr. N. N. of Amsterdam, but this memorandum is not regarded and accepted by us as an answer coming from the Consistory. Whereas, however, we do not know whether the said Mr. N. N. is to be regarded as a true member of your Consistory ( since your Right Reverences, from the entire composi- tion of our church call, with reference to the fixed salary and the immediately sent over passage money, which, as is stated, has more than once been offered to you by Mr. Crommelin, must have been sufficiently convinced [of the sincerity of our intentions]), or whether [the memorandum must be re- garded] merely as his privately expressed, well-meant and interested opinion applying to all congregations, which among us has never been heard or desired, and to which it is impossible for us to submit, whereby Mr. N. N. seeks to vex us and to make fun of matters of such importance which we earnestly desire, rather than to be helpful, we leave it for your Right Rev- erences to judge. We find it then quite useless to waste more time in writing back and forth and therefore are jointly disposed to withdraw the call at once. Your Right Reverences will please not trouble yourselves further on our account, but let it go at that, in order that we may make use of other assistance. You will excuse us, however, [if we hereby express our gratitude] for the altogether too great and abundant love and solicitude, yes, quite fatherly care and efforts in our behalf, which your Right Reverences have indeed bestowed upon us. Meanwhile, we have the honor, with all reverence and due respect, to remain, Your Right Reverend and Most Highly Honored Gentlemen's Very dutiful servants the Consistory and deputies from the Congregation Willem Haalenbeek (mark) Philip Spaan (mark) Jan Casper Haalenbeek (mark) Evert Eversen Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. [Portfolio America.] The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 253 MEMORANDUM inclosed in preceding letter Pro Memorie The Amsterdam Lutheran Consistory can in no other way undertake to send a pastor to America than on condition that the congregation who wish to have a pastor declare: 1 ) how much they are able to pay their pastor by way of compensation for his services. 2 ) They must draw up a call and state therein the amount of his salary. 3 ) They must give security for the free transportation of both the pastor and his belongings, and guarantee that his salary will not be diminished. For no assistance can be given by the consistory of this place, as there are many small and poor congregations in this country who are supported from the Consistory treasury. Therefore, all expenses incurred by this Consistory must be reimbursed, in the firm faith that this Consistory will not fail to provide the congregation with a pastor who speaks the German language. Amsterdam, Tune 11, 1771 N. N. [notetur nomen; the name to be filled in.] » e « MINUTES of the Amsterdam Consistory Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the fifth of August . . . Anno 1772. There was received a German letter, dated June 14, 1771, from Loonen- burgh, in New York, signed by several persons, as also, from New York, dated June 15, 1771, a letter from Robert C. Livingston, requesting an answer to their previous letter and, if at present we have not sent a pastor to them, then not to take the trouble to find one here, as they themselves will try to get one. Also a German letter dated December 2, 1771, from Loonenburgh afore- said, also signed by several persons. Further a copy of a German communi- cation which they had received from some one in Amsterdam, dated June 11, 1771, in which it is stated what conditions must be fulfilled before they could get a pastor. It was resolved to lay the same aside. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Consistory, Protocol No. 10, pages 490-491. 254 The New York Public Library ADDITIONAL RECORDS 100 LETTER from the Consistory at Amsterdam to the Lutherans at the Man- hatans, June 14, 1656. Reverend, Pious, Attentive and Kind Friends and very dear Brethren in Christ: We understand from your honors' letter dated March 18th of the present year 1656, delivered and brought to us at our consistory meeting on the 16th of the past month of May, that following our advice and counsel, previously given in writing and sent to you, you had started and then for some time had continued to assemble secretly for the observance of your religion, to edify your honors mutually with the reading of some sermons, and to strengthen yourselves in the faith to the glory and honor of God, but that subsequently your honors were not only actually disturbed and molested in this, with two of your honors' members held in civil detention, but that the same had also been forbidden to your honors, by publicly posted procla- mations, through the political councils or authorities who govern there in the name of the [West India] Company. After mature deliberation and consideration of this matter, we have neither wished nor could omit the use of every possible and feasible means to bring about a settlement of and relief from the above-mentioned prac- tices which were initiated against your honors and continue to threaten you. But for the purpose of attaining that end, several of our number were dele- gated, as humble remonstrants and petitioners, to bring the matter to some of the Directors of the West India Company here, by way of [bringing it to the attention of] the whole body [of Directors], and by God's help they have succeeded therein to this extent that it was resolved and decided by the latter, 101 according to information thereof given [to us], that in future in the West Indies and New Netherland our religion of the pure doctrine according to the Unaltered Augsburg Confession shall be tolerated by con- nivance, in the same way it is at the present time tolerated here in this country. By this means, then, the door and the way was opened for your honors and other Christians living in the territory under the dominion of the said 100 The Dutch transcripts of the Records in this section were received from Amsterdam after the close of the war, too late to be included chronologically in the body of the Records. Due to Mr. vanLaer's desire to be relieved of all further work — a most fitting request by one in retire- ment at his age — these additional documents were translated by Simon Hart and Harry J. Rreider, 1946. 101 So far as the records show, no official action was taken by the Directors. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 255 Company, to come and enter upon the free and public exercise of religion. Wherefore we should well venture to advise your honors now, as we are doing by this [letter], to look around for a capable and pious person, and to call him as your honors' regular preacher and spiritual leader. Whereto we stand willing, if you do not already have someone for that position or know of one [who is available], to offer a helping hand by being permitted to appoint a capable, unmarried person, under such terms as were stated in your honors' previous letter of October 4, 1653, and to send him over. Concerning this, we shall expect your honors' official resolution, with advice whether a German or a Netherlander is desired. Meanwhile, the friends and members will do well to hold mutual gath- erings in the manner most acceptable to the others, and to conduct them- selves in everything quietly and modestly. And we hereby commend your honors, after our kindly greetings, to God's gracious protection and guidance. In Amsterdam, June 14, anno 1656. [Addressed:] To the reverend, attentive friends and leaders, the joint mem- bers of the Christian community adhering to the Unaltered Augsburg Con- fession, located in New Amsterdam on Manhattan Island, in New Nether- land. Amst. Luth. Ch. Archives. Portfolio of Documents received and drafts of documents sent out. * o # MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. January 16, 1657 Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Tuesday, the 16th of January Anno 1657. 2. It is recommended to Messrs. Gerardt Hilbrants, Johannes Wijbrants and Joan de Licht, and they are requested please once again to go and address their good acquaintances and friends among the honorable Direc- tors of the West India Company here, and to persevere with them to the best [of their ability], in order that those of our Confession in New Nether- land might, in accordance with the hope thereof given, obtain the free exercise of their religion there in that country, just the same as it has been tolerated here in this town; [and] that if such [tolerance] be granted, we could look around for a capable person to be sent thither as a pastor, in conformity with the request of our members there, [which was] recently brought in and has come before us. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory (Old) No. 2, folios 62, 63. 256 The New York Public Library MINUTES of the Consistory at Amsterdam. April 10, 1657 Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Tuesday, the 10th of April Anno 1657. 1. Magister Johannes Ernestus Goetwasser, who has accepted the call to New Netherland, was, after a previously held examination and a determina- tion of his capability, ordained and inducted into the holy ministry this morning before the congregation. In testimony whereof, the same is here permanently recorded. 2. There was read and summarized the letter which the aforesaid Domi- nus Goetwasser was to take along with him from this Consistory; further- more, sixty florins were presented to him for his journey. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory (Old) No. 2, folio 90. o o o POSTSCRIPTS to letter, Amsterdam to New York, December 10, 1665. 102 N. B. When this letter was closed and sealed, the words "Hendrik Bosch etc." were covered and consequently could not be read on the outside. N. B. Apparently this letter should have been sent off. This was not done. The rough summary of the letter is also to be found in the portfolio. [We do not know] whether this letter was not sent off or whether it was returned by another [person] from New York to Amsterdam. It is also quite possible that for some reasons this letter was not satisfactory, and a new letter was written and subsequently sent off. o o o LETTER (summary) from the Amsterdam Consistory to Rev. Lendrig. March 30, 1666. Letter of the Consistory at Amsterdam to D[ominu]s Lendrig at Utrecht, in the matter of his departure to New Netherland. He should depart on the ship which is ready [to leave]. He is to receive sixty guilders for traveling money, together with forty guilders for the purchase of some books. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio of documents received and drafts of documents sent out. » o o LETTER ( draft ) from the Amsterdam Consistory to Rev. Aernout Lendrig. December 9, 1666. Reverend, well-learned Sir and Brother in Christ. The members of our Confession in New Amsterdam or New York in New Netherland, in their written authority in behalf of your honorable person, 102 The letter is given above. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 257 stand in hope and confidence that your honor will accept their call and for the performing of that function will sail over to them at your earliest opportunity, and therefore they have written to us as well as to your honor himself. So we hereby request your honor, in answer thereto, please to assure us at the first opportunity whether your honor is inclined and has resolved definitely to accept the above-mentioned call and to travel thither at your honors' earliest possible opportunity, or [if] not, that the above- mentioned congregation may no longer be held up in vain [in that] for which [its members] rely upon us. Commending your honor, after our greetings, to the gracious protecting God. In Amsterdam this 9th of December anno 1666. [Addressed:] To Ds. Aernout Lendrig. at Utrecht. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Portfolio of documents received and drafts of documents sent out. o o o DATA concerning Rev. Bernhardus Arnzius, in the Minutes of the Amster- dam Consistory. Minutes of November 19, 1665. The Lutheran congregation at Medemblik writes of its intention to call Ds. Bernhardus Arents of Dinslaken as its regular preacher. He has been residing there for some time now and has several times preached without being hindered. 103 We advise, concerning this call, that according to the church orders it first write to the three neighboring congregations and re- quest their advice thereupon. Minutes of January 20, 1666. The letters from the congregations nearest Medemblik are received. Re- solved, to write Ds. Arents "to speak with him privately and to examine him on his studies and learning." Minutes of February 11, 1666. Ds. Bernhardus Arents was requested to preach here in the church on the evening of February 19th, and on the Monday following he is to appear, together with the [delegates from] the three neighboring congregations, for his examination, and thereupon, on the following Tuesday, February 23rd, he is to be ordained. !03 That is, by the magistrates. 258 The New York Public Library Minutes of February 25, 1666. It is here permanently recorded that Ds. Bernhardus Arents of Dinslaken, after previously held examination in the presence of the reverend min- isterium here and also of Ds. Rochus Immerseel, pastor at Enckhausen, and Thomas Hoffer, pastor at Alcmaar, each of them assisted by one of his elders, and after previously held sermon, was inducted into the holy ministry • on the past Tuesday the 23rd of this month of February, in the presence of this congregation. Minutes of May 30, 1668. The Lutheran congregation at Medemblik complains about Ds. Bern- hardus Arents. Both parties are requested to appear here. Minutes of July 25, 1668. Ds. Arents and two elders from Medemblik appear. The complaint is about offerings received by Ds. Arents. The latter shall within fourteen days produce an accounting thereof. Minutes of August 1, 1668. In the presence of several elders of the congregation at Medemblik, as well as in the presence of this consistory, Ds. Bernhardus Arents submits the accounting of the offerings which he had received from abroad. After the deduction of expenses and overdue salary, there remain 200 guilders, which Ds. Arents shall pay over. Minutes of May 21, 1670. Letter from Medemblik with complaints against Ds. Bernhardus Arents. Both parties were requested to appear. Minutes of June 11, 1670. Medemblik was advised to settle its difficulties by itself. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Book of the Consistory, No. 3, folios 2t>, 5, 7v, 9, 72, 76, 78, 126, 127. o o o MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting as above held on Wednesday the 15th of February Anno 1713. It was resolved, since there is now occasion [whereby] we are able to write to the congregation of New York, to inform the pastor, Justus Falkener, The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 259 by letter that this consistory has sent his congregation a small case of books, wherein are packed a large folio Bible, 50 psalters, 50 Paradijshofkens ( Para- dise Gardens), and 50 Haverman's prayer books, 104 which case, marked L. G. n. 1, was loaded at London by Messrs. Luttman and Remmers on November 7th, in the ship named Succer, of which Charles Stow is the master, bound for New York, with the request that his reverence please inform this assembly as soon as the aforementioned case of books is received. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol A, page 112. o o o MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting held on Wednesday the twentieth of June Anno, 1714. After reading the minutes of the last meeting held the 6th of this month, it was resolved to donate to the congregation of New York, in addition to the church agenda, 12 bound octavo psalters, Mr. Hilken being appointed to procure the same. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol A, page 148. o o o MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting as above held on Wednesday the 4th of July Anno 1714. It was unanimously decided that in addition to the previously approved twelve octavo psalters, to donate to the congregation of New York 12 bound ditto duodecimo ones. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol A, page 149. * * * MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting as above held on Wednesday, the 1st of August Anno 1714. Mr. Hilken communicated that his honor had sent the books on the 30th of July to our congregation at New York on the sloop de Swaleuw, 105 Thomas Poope, master, together with the letter which was written by the secretary to that congregation upon the order of the President; and that the cost of these books, delivered by Samuel Schoonwald, amounted to 34 florins. 104 Joh. Haverman's Christelijcke Ghebeden (Christian Prayers). 105 "The Swallow." 260 The New York Public Library Upon hearing the same, the aforementioned Mr. Hilken was thanked for the trouble taken by him, and it was resolved to pay the 34 florins. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol A, page 151. © o o MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting as above held on Wednesday, the 15th of July Anno 1716. Mr. Warner Groen communicated that there was brought to his honor by Johan Schutz Michael, 106 the letter from New York dated October 3, 1715. The bearer had shown his honor an attestation signed by D[ominu]s Justus Falkner, preacher at that place, in which he requested some aid of this assembly for the building of their new church, which request the said Mr. Groen had made known to most of the members of this assembly. The latter, thereupon, after an inquiry was completed of the said Jan Schuts Michaels, decided to present him with 100 florins, through Mr. Richelman, for the account of the above-mentioned church. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol A, page 195. o o o MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting held on Wednesday, the 6th of June Anno 1725. There appeared Hendrik Sybrants, delegate of our congregation at New York, seeking some aid for that congregation. 250 guilders were given him for the same, together with a quarto Bible printed by Schoonwald, a book of ritual (formulierboek), and one [copy] of our church ordinance. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol A, page 381. o o o MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary Consistory meeting held on Wednesday, the 19th of December Anno 1731. There was received a letter from New York dated August 2, 1731, and it was resolved to lay this letter aside until an early opportunity. N. B. I did not find returned the above-mentioned letter of August 2, 1731. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolution Rook of the Consistory, No. 6, folio 521. 106 The correct name is Johan Michael Schutze. See letter of the New York Consistory to the Amsterdam Consistory, dated June 12, 1717. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 261 MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting as above held on Wednesday, the 4th of July Anno 1753. It was resolved also to grant the sum of ten guilders to Philip Leydig and Joseph Hausen, delegates from New York, as traveling money, provided that no collections be taken here, which was given them on those terms. They expressed their thanks for the same. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol C, folio 260. o o o MINUTES of the Elders at Amsterdam Ordinary meeting as above held on Wednesday, the 2nd of September Anno 1761. The letter of our Dutch Lutheran Congegation at New York, dated May 7, 1761, wherein some aid is sought for the building of its new school, was referred to this body today by our reverend ministerium. It was decided to persist [in the position taken] in the letter of March 21, 1759, which was sent by our reverend consistory to the above-mentioned congregation, and for that reason to put the present letter away unanswered. Amst. Luth. Ch. Arch. Resolutions of the Elders, Protocol C, folio 652. INDEX Index Numbers refer to pages. A Ablentie. See Megapolensis. Acher, Conrat Frietrich, 202. Adultery [fallen persons], 177, 178, 229. Aedu. See Eduardsen. Aelbrecht, Johan Cristian, 128. Aendreesen, Lucas, 49. Agenda. See Amsterdam Church Order [Agenda]. Albany, Fort. See Albany, 67 (note). Albany [Fort Albany, Fort Orange] Lutherans: letter, 73; Amst. consistory's printed letter of advice, 188, 195, 196; Berckenmeyer call, 125; "bond," 112, 113, 119, 120, 121, 124, 131, 132; books for, see Books; church build- ing, 86, 125, 140, 181, 183, 184, 185, 187; congregation [size, nature, etc.], 39, 115, 125, 155, 181, 183; consistory, 125; "country church," see Loonenburg; English inhabi- tants' support, 183; Fabritius, 76, 79; Falk- ner, D., 184; N. Y., books from, 140; N. Y.- Hackensack dissentions, 112 ff., 181, 184, 187, 188, 189; pastor's salary, 140, 183; school, 187; Reformed Church's support, 90, 181, 184; storm's damage, 56; Stuyvesant's persecution of, 125; Sybrandt's mission, 112; van Dieren's disturbances, 183 ff. Albany Reformed church. See Reformed church: Albany; also Schenectady, Esopus and Albany pastor. Albertus, widow, and John Hodshon, 226. Alms. See Collection of money. Amst. : This abbreviation used in subheads. Amsterdam consistory [as subject] : References distributed under subject, as: New York Luth. congregation: Amst. consistory aid sought. Amsterdam Council. See West India Co. Amsterdam Lutheran Church Order [Agenda] : baptism, 146-148; church service, 64; Falck- ner's requests, 107, 108, 109; N. Y. copy of, 140; pastor's responsibility, 192; punish- ments, 148; Spaler on, 198. Amsterdam Reformed Church Order [Agenda], 146. Andreisen. See Boscerck. Andres, Lorens, 21, 40. Andresen, Mrs. Lillian, 10. Andriesen [i.e., Andreisen]. See Boscerck. Andros, Edmund, colonial governor of N. Y., 87. Anglican. See English. Anglican church. See Protestant Episcopal church. Anne, queen of England, 197. Anthonides, domine, 143, 145, 206. Apostle's creed, 121, 198. Archives. See Lutheran records; Reformed archives. Arnzius [Arentius, Arents, Arentsius, Arntsius, Arnzen, Rents], Bernhardus, Luth. pastor, N. Y. colony, 1671-1691, 87, 91; Amst. con- sistory introduces, 8; death, 92, 93; Fabri- tius dispute, 85; Medemblik controversy, 85, 258; New Netherland Lutherans' letter, 81; New York's vocatiebrief, 81; ordination, 51, 257, 258; salary, 87; voyage to and arrival at New Netherland, 82, 84. Assembly, Religious. See Church services. Athanasian creed, 121. Athens. See Loonenburg. Augsburg Confession, 121; selections and in- terpretations of, 191 ff.; Stuyvesant, 31. Avelius. See Zetskoora. B B., I. See Beekman, Jochem. Backway [Bachway]: Hoffgoed at, 229. Balthias, Johan. See Daesch, Johann Balthias. Baptism: Amst. consistory, 177 ff.; Bercken- meyer, 146, 182; Boel, 146; children of sav- ages, 147; Emmanuel (Negro), 68; English pastors, 146; Fabritius, 68, 70; fee, 246; General Church Orders, 147 ff., 177 ff., 182; Hackensack child, 145; Hoffgoed, 229; illegitimate child, 145, 147; illness, 146; lay- men, 198; pastor's duties, 16, 147, 182; Re- formed church, 6, 25, 29, 146, 147, 177, 178, 179, 182; Schenectady pastor refuses, 182; Spaler, 198; van Dieren, 145 ff. Barensen [Barentsen], Chrysteyan [Christiaen, Crysteyan], 17, 21, 30, 32. Barentsen [Barensen], Mayndert [Meyndert], 30, 40. Bauch, Friderick, 210. Beekman, Charles [Charel], 4, 110, 115, 126, 134, 164, 227, 231, 236, 239, 242; deacon, 138, 149, 152, 155, 241. Beekman, Charles, jr., 239, 242. Beekman [Bekmann], Henricius, 197. Beekman [Beekman, Beeckman, I. B., I. B. M. (sign)], Jochem, 21, 30, 32, 38, 42, 49, 57, 58, 77, 79. Beem, Abraham, 128, 138. Bekmann. See Beekman. Bells, Church, 71, 79. Berckenmeyer. See Berkenmeyer. Berg, Abraham, 204, 210. [265] 266 The New York Public Library Berkenmeyer [Berckenmeyer], Wilhelm Chris- toph, Luth. pastor, N. Y. colony, 1725-1751: Herder- en Wachter-Stem, 188; letters, 118, 119, 120, 123, 128, 134, 135, 164, 182, 188, 201, 211; report, 136; Altdorf testimonials, 130; Amst. consistory's introduction, 130, 131; Brand's recommendations, 171; Burnet (Gov.) advice on Albany salary, 181, 185; Buskerk welcomes, 139; Hoffgoed's inter- ference, 229; N. Y., arrival at, 134, 152; N. Y.-Albany-Hackensack dissentions, 132, 187, 195; ordination and call, 117 ff., 203; passage money, 133, 137; Schutz's opposi- tion, 136; Spaler controversy, 224; Sybrandt controversy, 119, 135, 149 ff., 152; van Dieren controversy, 111, 167, 202 ff., 217. Bernhardus. See Amzius. Berthe, Johannis, 128. Bever, de (ship), 92. Bible: New Testament: Epistles (Postilla), 226; Gospels (Osiander), 226. Bible: Old Testament: Psalms. See Haber- mann. Bible and Bibles: Albany, 140; Amst. sends, 107, (Schoonwald ed.), 259, 260; Gasser seeks, 237; Hofgoed lacks, 229; Lauer seeks, 201; New Netherland and N. Y., 104, 107, 140, 159; Reformed Church seeks, 237; Rhinebeck-Queensbury, 199; van Dieren, 145; young people's ignorance of, 99. Bijorck, Ericus, 102. Blikkenberg (ship), 93. Bockker, Hinderick Willem, 21. Bohm [Boeme, i.e., Boehme], Anton Wilhelm, 142, 218. Boel, Henricus, 146, 147. Bom, Claes, 40. Boescerck. See Boscerck. Bonenstiel, Neckellas, 200. Books, Devotional: Amst. consistory sends, 104, 179, 227, 259, 260, funds for, 54; Berken- meyer takes to Albany, 140, acknowledges, 180; Fabritius acknowledges, 107; Gasser seeks, 237; German contributions, 211; N. Y. acknowledges, 106, 110, 227; N. Y. pur- chases, 180; printing types for, 72; Rhine- beck-Queensbury need, 199; Weyman sends to Laure, 201, 211. Boolt, Vredrick [Friderich], 128, 138. Boon, president of Amst. consistory, 196. Borat [Verbroeck], Claes [Nicks], 82, 83. Borghart [Borghghardt], Conradt [Coenraet], 204, 210. Born, N. van, 82. Bornit, Johannis, 128. Borst, Jacob, 210. Bos, Johan Jacob. See Boscerck, Jacobus van. Bos, Simon Leeuw. See Leeuwenbos. Boscerck [Boescerck, Boskercken, Boskerens, Buskerken], Andries van, 115, 128, 134, 137, 138, 139, 143, 155, 164. Boscerck [Boskerck], Andris van, yong., 128, 137. Boscerck [Bos, Boskerk], Jacobus van, 137, 138, 222, 227, 239, 241, 242. Boscerck [Andriesen, Boskerk], Laurens van, 30, 227. Boscerck [Boscerc, Boscerk, Boskercken], Pie- ter van, 110, 128, 134, 137, 155, 164. Boscerck [Boskercken, Boskerens, Boskerken], Thomas van, 149, 155. Boscerck [Boskerck] family, 138, 139, 143. Bosch, Hendrick [Hinrich], 54; letters, 47, 50, 51, 256. Boskerck [Boskercken, Boskerk, Boskerken], See Boscerck. Bouch, Christian, 210. Boutin, Mr., 97. Brand, H. L., 169. Brand, Jan, 97, 98. Brand [Brandt], Renaud, 117 ff. Brausch, Ch., 204. Broeck [Broek], Casparus van den, 118, 162, 165, 179, 194, 195. Brouwer, Jan, 40. Bruyb, Hacken, 40. Bruyns, P., 100. Bruynvis, De (ship), 41. Buildings. See church buildings as subhead under various places, as Albany; also School buildings. Burch, Comelis van der, 87. Burg, Simon, 104. Burgess, Ellis B., 10. Burgh [Burg], Dirck van der, 92, 95. Burial of dead, 79; privilege from Charles n, 76; see also Cemeteries. Burnet, William, colonial governor of N. Y. and New Jersey, 181, 185. Bush, The. See Flatbush. Buskerken. See Boscerck. C Calvinism: Fabritius, 68; van Dieren, 206, 216; see also Reformed church. Cana Schoch: distance from the [Little] Falls, 204. Canajoharie Lutherans. See Schoharie-Kinder- hook-Canajoharie Lutherans. Canat Schary: distance to Schohary, 204. Capito, Mattheus, 17, 21, 30, 32, 38, 40, 42. Casselman, Lodowyk, 210. Catechism, Luth.: books needed, 70, 71, 79, 122, 159, 199; High German, instruction in, 230; Hoffgoed on, 229; ignorance of, 140, 185, 198; pastor's duty to teach, 246; print- ing types requested, 72; Spaler on, 199. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 — Index 267 Catholics. See Hoffgoed. Cemeteries in N. Y., 77, 79, 238. Charles u, king of England, 66, 74, 75, 76. Chartered West India Co. See West India Co. Children: baptism, see Baptism; church in- struction, 17, 179, 185, 190, 199; Reformed church, 25, 29, 94, 95. Christian Evangelical Lutheran. See Lutheran. Christmas, N. Y. Luth., 89. Church buildings. See various locations, as Albany. Church ceremonies and usages. See Amster- dam Church Order [Agenda]. Church constitution. See Amsterdam Church Order [Agenda]. Church discipline: adultery [fallen persons], 177; ancient customs abolished, 177; appli- cation of, 177, 178; baptism, 146; children's instruction in, 190; church attendance, 198; first Christian church, 178; Luth. and Re- formed compared, 6; pastor's powers under, 177, 178; Spaler on, 198; van Dieren exer- cises, 159. Church government. See Church discipline. Church laws: consistory, 177; pastor, 191. Church Order. See Amsterdam Church Order. Church ordinance, General, 238, 252, 260; bap- tism, 182; Berckenmeyer, 182; pastor's con- formity to, 122. Church ritual. See Amsterdam Church Order. Church services: Calvinists attend Luth., 68; Church Orders, 64; Dutch and German lan- guages, 229, 246; Loonenburg, etc., 246, 248; Lovelace's permission, 66; Luth. and Reformed compared, 6; New Netherland authorities, 24, 27, 28, 32, 50; secret, 38, 125, 184, 185, 254. Church sites. See locations, as Loonenburg. Churchmasters. See Officers of the congrega- tion. Churchyards. See Cemeteries. Claverack Luth. congregation, 246. Clergymen. See Pastors. Clinton, George, colonial governor of N. Y., 229, 241. Cnol. See Knoll. Coenis, Matteise, 204. Collection of money: Albany, 183; Amst. con- sistory's aid sought, 69, 139, 242, denied, 261, 253; collection bag with bell, 139; collection-book, 137; DeLancy (Gov.) cer- tificate, 239, 240, 241; European contribu- tions, 240; German aid to seceded group, 238; N. Y., 116, 139; Old Luth. church, N. Y., 240; St. Thomas, W. I., contributions, 100, 139; Schiitz, 137, 138; Sybrandt, 115, 116, 133, 135, 137, 150, 152, 161, 163, 168 ff; van Dieren, 137, 205, 214. Colyer, Jacobus, 92. Communion. See Holy Communion. Confession, formulary of, 107. Conigsbergen. See Konigsberg. Conradi, Wolter [Waltherus], 62; call extended to, 61. Conscience, Freedom of, 35; see also Religious liberty. Consistorial law-making and law-breaking powers, 177. Conventicles. See Church services. Coopman, Mr., 97. Copenhagen: Sybrandt collects funds, 150, 163, 168, 172, 173. Cordes, domine, 51. Cornelissen [Corneliussen, Cornelsen], Jan [Yan], 30, 40, 243. Cornelisz, Cornelis, 93. Court actions: Gutwasser, 27; Knoll-van Die- ren, 211, 219, 222, 223. Cows supplied to pastors, 246. Cristianesz, Poules, 40. Cromelin, Daniel, 248, 250. Curagao Lutherans, 95, 185. Customs [tariff], 171. D D., Doctor [Doctor Theol.]. See Durkoop. Dachster, Jorg, 204. Daesch, Johann Baltias, 239, 242. Danes in North America, 238. de [prefix in surname]. See following word, as Wit, Claes de. Deacons. See Officers. Death, Recording fees, 246. Degroet, Jost, 204. DeLancy, James, provincial governor of N. Y., 239, 240, 241. Delaware river. See South [Delaware] river. Dellius, Godfridus, 90. Deportation of pastor, 21; see also Gutwasser. Dieren [Deuren, Diren, Duhren, Duren], John Bernhard van: Albany and Loonenburg, 159, 185; Amst. consistory, 184, 187, 188 ff., 194; Anthionides's examination of, 143, 145, 206; application to preach, 142; baptism, views on, 145; Berkenmeyer's account, 138 ff., 182, 207, 211; Bohm sent him to N. Y., 142, 218; Boscerck signs call, 137, 138; examination and ordination, 142, 194, 207, 212, 217, 218, 219; extract from N. Y. protocol, 211, 212; Falckner's interest, 141, 142, 208; Hackensack, 143, 184; Henkel's ordination, 206; Hesselius's report, 111; High German, mistakes in, 245; Knoll letter, 205; report and letter, 211 ff.; La Grange opposition, 127; lawsuit, 223; marriage, 140, 206, 215; N. Y. call, 127, 132, 133, 184, 220; N. Y.-New Jersey Lutherans' letter, 202; N. Y. schism, 138, 187, 191; ordination; see examination and ordination; preaching, 138; 268 The New York Public Library Dieren [Deuren, Diren. . .], continued Reformed Church, 145, 159, 165, 185, 209, 212, 225; salary, 127; Schohary-Kinderhook- Canajoharie testimonial, 208; Schut's activi- ties, 211; Spaler's opinion, 225; Swedish pas- tors' letters, 207, 214; Tappan [Topelhagen] call, 143, 213; theft of church land, 207, 209, 217; van Buskerk's call, 138. Dircksen, Lucas, 32, 40; see also Dirricksen, Lucas [?]. Diren. See Dieren. Dirk, 210. Dirksen, Mathys, 40. Dirricksen, Lucas, 30; see also Dircksen, Lucas [?]. Diseases. See various diseases. Diskedamernesie [Kiskatemeresy, Kiskaton] : congregation, 245, 248; distance from Loon- enburg, 248; services at, 246, 248. Dober, Willsz, 40. Dominicus, secretary to Amst. consistory, 97, 98. Dordrecht, Synod of: articles and provisions, 28. Downs: Berkenmeyer voyage, 84, 170. Draetvat, Het (ship), 24. Dreper [Drepery], Hans, 21, 30, 40, 42, 49, 51, 74. Drisius [Drisies], Samuel, Reformed minister, N. Y., colony, 77. Duren. See Dieren. Durkoop [Doctor D...., Doctor Theol. D. . . .], 170, 173. Dutch and English War, 60. Dutch in America, 238. Dutch Luth. congregation. See New York Luth. congregation. "The Dutch Lutherans in Manhattan" (ms. ), 6. Dutch Reformed church. See Reformed church. Dyck, Gysbert op, 30. E Easter services, N. Y. Luth., 68, 198. Ecclesiastical Records of the State of New York, 5, 32. Eden, Peter, 120. Eduardsen [Eduwardsen; Aedu, Eduarsen], Harman [Harmen], 17, 30. Eeman [Eman], Laurens, 237, 239, 241, 242, 244, 245. Eggebrecht, Johannis, 128. The "Eight." See Officers of the Luth. congre- gations. Eigler, Andreas, 248, 249, 250. Elders [t. e., Eldersen], Jacob, 30. Elders. See Officers of the congregation. Eldersen, Lucas, 30; see also Elders. Elslant, Kales van, 125. Emmanuel [Negro], 68. Empsychoff [Empsychof], Bernhard Henric: books for N. Y., 103, 104, 106, 107, 108; death, 108, 109. English in N. Y.: conquest of New Netherland, 6; Luth. Petition to Gov. Nicolls, 48; tol- erance towards Lutherans, 5, 80; see also Pastors: English. English support of N. Y. Lutherans: Albany,' 183; Episcopal church, 243; Schut, 211; Sybrandt, 163, 164, 207; see also London Lutherans. Episcopal church. See Protestant Episcopal church. Epistles, The. See Bible. New Testament. Epistles. Erhart, Joh. Georg, 200. Esopus [mod. Kingston]. See Schenectady- Esopus-Albany. Europe: van Dieren's visit, 166. "Evangelical" [term] : preferred to "Lutheran," 229. Evangelical Lutheran church. See Lutheran church. Eversen, Evert, 248, 249, 250, 251, 252. Evertsen, Jan, 15. Exchange: bill of, 248; Dutch-English rates of (in 1699), 94; (in 1723), 112, 113, 114; (in 1724), 122; (in 1725), 124, 131; in 1726, 153, 172, 173. Eyk, Cornelis van, 197. F F., J. See Falckner, Justus. Faber, 228, 233. Fabritius [Fabricius] Jacobus, Luth. pastor, N. Y. colony, 1669-1671, 63 ff.; letters, 69, 75; Albany [Fort Orange] troubles; 67, 76, 78, 80; Amst. consistory's certificate, 64; Arnzius letter, 85; English opinion, 68; Love- lace (Gov.), 66, 68, 70, 74, 76; N. Y. con- gregation's differences, 67 ff., 85; oath of fidelity, 66, 70; pastoral office dispute, 137; Reformed criticism, 68; South river, 78, 83. Falckner [Falkner], Daniel, Luth. pastor, Rari- tan Valley, N. J., 1724 [?]-1734, 138, 184. Falckner [Falkener, Falkner, Valkenaar, Valk- ener], Justus, Luth. pastor, N. Y. colony, 1703-1723; letters, 98, 103, 105, 107, 108, 109, 110; Amst. consistory letters, 104; Bi- jorck letter and certificate, 102; church- building aid, 260; death, 112, 116, 149, 184; Hesselius letter, 111; Medemblik contro- versy, 258; ordination, 99, 101, certificate, 102; Reformed esteem, 83; salary, 113; Schiitz, 137; van Dieren, 141 ff., 205 ff., 208, 217, 219. Fallen persons. See Adultery. Falls, The. See Little Falls. Farmers, 32, 39, 56, 143, 222, 223. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 — Index 269 Fees, Recording, 246. Fines [penalties]: Albany religious services, 125, 184; Goetwasser, aid to, 39, 44; New Amsterdam religious services, 24, 27, 28, 33, 43. Flatbush [The Bush, Vlakbosch], 207, 215. Formann, Friderich Wilhelm: letter to Stutt- gart consistory, 232. Formula Concordiae [Formula of Concord], 122. Formularies. See Amsterdam Church Order. Formulierboek. See Ritual, Book of. Fort Albany. See Albany, 67 (note). Fort Amsterdam, 31. Fort George, 241. Fort James, 66, 67. Fort Orange. See Albany ( note, p. 67 ) . Freedom of worship. See Worship, Freedom of. French and Indian wars, 238. French in America, 238. Frese, Johan, 77, 79, 81, 83. Freymeier [Freymeyer], Michael [Michgael], 204, 210. Friederich, Conraad, 222. Frija, Conrad, 222. Frommann, Friderich Wilhelm: letter, 232. Fuchs, Johannes, 222. Fulton, Deoch, 9. Funeral sermon fees, 139. G Garel, van, 154, 159, 162, 179, 188, 196. Gasser, Johan, Reformed pastor, Santee Forks, S. C, 237. General church ordinance. See Church ordi- nance, General. George i, king of England, 111, 184. George n, king of England, 241. Gerdes, Henrich Walther, 196. German Reformed church. See Reformed church. Germans in America: Dutch language, 229; education, 199; Hoffgoed, 228, 229; Luth. services, 246; membership, 228; nourish- ment of, 197; Rhinebeck-Queensbury Ger- mans, 197; Virginia, 197; see also Swedish Lutherans, Pennsylvania: Palatine preacher. Germans' support of N. Y. Lutherans, 188. Germany: Seven Years' War, 243. Goetwasser. See Gutwasser [both spellings used in this index]. Good Friday services, N. Y. Luth., 68. Gospels, The. See Bible: New Testament: Gos- pels. Graveyards. See Cemeteries. Greisler [Kreissler], Friederich [Friedr, Fried- rich], 249, 250, 251. Groen, Warner, 260. Groot, Joost de, 222. Gutwasser [Goetwasser], Johannes Ernestus, Luth. pastor, New Amsterdam, 1657-1659: letters, 24, 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, 41, 42, 44, 45, 46; books lost, 44, 45; call and ordination, 22 ff., 256; certificate, 26, 43; compensation, 42, 44; deportation, 26, 30, 34, 39, 43, 47, 50; flees New Amsterdam, 32, 34; Luth. petition to Gov. Stuyvesant, 30, 32; ministry forbidden, 24, 31; persecution and interdicts, 24, 34, 37, 39, 47; petition to Amst. con- sistory for intercession, 41; petition to preach, 30; salary, 43; shipwreck, 44; testimonials, 23, 45, 46, 256. H Haalenbek. See Hallenbeek. Habermann, Johann. Christelijcke Ghebeden (Christian Prayers), 104, 105, 107, 259. Hackensack [Hackensak, Hackinsack, Haken- sack, Hakensak, Hakkensak, Hakkingsack; mod. Teaneck]: Luth. congregation: Amst. consistory's printed letter, 188, 195, 196; Berkenmeyer rejected, 149; "bond," 119, 156, see also pastor's salary; Buskerck calls pastor, 155; church land (Sonneman gift), 207, 209, 217; congregation [size, nature, etc.], 155; controversy with Albany-N. Y., 126, 132, 151, 184, 187, 188, 189; contro- versy with N. Y., 151; controversy with N. Y.-Schoharie, 159; Falckner, 112; N. Y. agreement with, 113, 126, 133; officers, 155, 211, 223; pastor's call, 150, 181, 196; pas- tor's salary and maintenance, 113, 114, 116, 150, see also "bond"; Sybrandt's trouble, 149, 150, 151; van Dieren controversy, 138, 143, 145, 159, 184, 205, 209, 211 ff., 216, 223; see also New Hackensack; Schoharie. . . Lutherans. Haelenbeck [Haellik], Jacob, 124; see also Hallenbeek. Haellik. See Hallenbeek. Hagedorn, Christoffel, 200. Hallenbeek [Haalenbeek, Haalenbek], Jan [John C] Caspar [Casper, Casperse], 249, 250, 251, 252. Hallenbeek [Haalenbeek, Halenbeek, Halen- bek], Willem, 249, 250, 251, 252. Ham, Jansen von der, 40. Hamburg: Berkenmeyer 's purchase of books, 140. Hamburg Luth. Ministerium: Berkenmeyer, 118 ff.; collection money, 150, 163, 168, 184, 185, 199; Hoffgoed, 231; letter to Rev. Klepperbein, 234; Luth. records, 7; Sy- brandt, 116, 150 ff.; van Dieren, 207, 217. Hamel [or Hanel], George, 30. Hansen, Andreas, 40. Hart, Simon, 8, 254. Hausel [Hausen, Houser], Joseph, 235, 240, 244, 261. 270 The New York Public Library Haverman. See Habermann. Hedeman, Eberhardt, 40. Heinrichsz, Heinrich, 21, 40. Hemor, Johannes, 200. Hendericksen, Henderick, 30. Hendricksen [Hendricksz], Willem, 88. Henkel [Henkler], 206. Hesselius, Andrew: letter, 111; van Dieren, 111, 142, 143. Heyns, Godfried [Godvrid], 128, 137. Highlands, The, 212, 215. Hikesson. See Hilkes. Hilbrants, Gerrit [Gerardt], 20, 256. Hilken, Mr., 259, 260. Hilkes [Hikesson], Nicolaes [Nicolaas], 237, 239, 242, 243. Hill, Robert W., 9. Hodshon, John. See Albertus, widow, and John Hodshon. Hoesen, Jan van, 124. Hoffer, Thomas, 258. Hoffgoed. See Hofgut [both spellings used in this index]. Hoffman [Hoefmaen], Martin, 38, 49. Hofgut [Hoffgoed, Hofgoed, Hofguth], Johann Ludwig: Amst. consistory denounces, 231; Catholics' reported removal of, 228, 232; Clinton ( Gov. ) orders, 229; Faber's pass, 228, 233; Frommann's letter, 232; Hamburg Ministerium's letter, 234; N. Y. arrival at, 228. Holland Lutherans: collections asked, 235, 243; Schut, 211; Sybrandt, 165, 168, 169, 173, 174; van Dieren, 211. Holstein: Sybrand's collection at, 150, 163, 173. Holy Communion: Arnzius, 90; Christmas, 89; Fabritius, 68, 70; Knoll-van Dieren, 27, 217; Leewenbos, 91; Loonenburg, 246; N. Y., First, 68, 70; pastor's duty, 122; penitential sermons for High Germans, 229; perform- ance of, 179; seceders get authorized pastors, 238; Spaler, 198, 199; Sybrandt, 144, 167; training to administer, 193; van Dieren, 142, 143, 144, 159, 214, 215. Holy Scripture, 121. Holy Week. See Easter. Hooren, Baerent van, 110. Horace quotations, 85; see also Juvenal. Housen, Gerret van, 124. Houser. See Hausel. Hudson river. See North river; see also various congregations as Albany, etc. Huspot [hutspot], 246. Hymn singing, 20, 139; pastor as precentor, 16. Hymnals: Albany needs, 140; Hoffgoed lacks, 229; Mamburg unknown, 236; N. Y. needs, 70, 71, 99, 226, 236; Rhinebeck-Queensbury, 199. I I. B. [I. B. M.]. See Beekman, Jochem. Illegitimacy, 145, 177. Immerseel, Rochus, 258. Immigrants, Nature of, 6, 71. Incest, 178, 229. Indians, Instruction of, 70, 178; baptism of children, 147, 178. Intercourse, Unmarried, 207, 210. Issendorp, Hendrick, 158. J J. F. See Falckner, Justus. Jacobs, Henry E., 111. Jacobsenn, Dirrich, 40. James n. See York, Duke of (later James n). Janse. See Jansen. Jansen, Albert, 40. Jansen, Carsten, 40. Jansen [Yansen], Harmen, 30, 40. Jansen, Jan, 30. Jansen [Janse], Joachim [Jochem], 249, 250, 251. Jansen, Juryen, 40. Jansen, Pieter, 40. Jansen, Simon, 40. Jansen, Teirck, 40. Jansen [Jansz], Vogart [Volckart], 17, 40. Jersenius [Jersing], Christianus, 62, 63. Jesuit preacher in Reformed church, 21. Jesus [Royal Prince]: van Dieren's use of name, 140, 141, 215. J H B. See Haelenbeck, Jacob. Johnson, captain, 243. Jonge, Lodewyk, 40. Jssersen, Nicklas, 40. Juvenal quotation, 84. K Kanjohary. See Canajoharie. Keisser, Johanes, 204. Kerkmeister. See Officers. Kettel [Kettell], Hans, 21, 40. Keusfelt [Kueesfelt, Kuuesfelt], Bay [Baey, Baij], 77, 79, 81, 83. Kieffer, George L., 7. Kiel: Sybrandt's collection at, 163, 172, 173. Kinderhook [Kinderhoek] : distance to [Little] Falls, 204; distance to New Hackensack, 204; see also Schoharie-Kinderhook-Canajoharie Lutherans. King, The. See George i. King George's war, 230. King William's war, 92. Kiskatemeresy [Kiskaton]. See Diskedamer- nesie. Klepperbein, officer of Amst. consistory, 231, 232, 234, 235, 237. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 — Index 271 Knoll [Cnol, Knol], Michael, Christian, Luth. pastor, N. Y. colony, 1731-1774: letters, 205, 211, 214, 222, 227, 231; Berkenmeyer, 212; Hackensack - Remmerbock announcement, 211, 221; resignation, 245, 247, 248; Scho- harie, etc., reply, 208; Spaler, 224; van Dieren, 217. Kock, Pieter, 210. Konig, John Davit, 128, 137. Kornese, Mattijs, 222. Kreider, Harry Julius, 254; Lutheranism in Colonial New York, 7, 13. Kreissler. See Greisler. Kreuger, Frans: gift, 158. Krudup, Barendt, 38, 40, 42. Kueesfelt. See Keusfelt. L L. & N. See Laasbye and Nieugaard. Laasbye, elder, Amst. consistory, 116. Laasbye [Laesbye] and Nieugaard, 117, 125, 132, 135, 136, 154, 157, 158, 160, 161, 164, 171, 179, 180. Laasbye and Nieugaard [Laasby & Nieuw- gaard] heirs, 227. Laer, Arnold Johan Ferdinand van, 8, 9, 254. Laesbye. See Laasbye. Lagrange [La Grange, Lagrangie, La Gransie, La Granse, La Gransie, Lagransie, Langran- sie, Le Grance], Johannes [Johan, Johannis], 96, 100, 110, 115, 124, 126, 134, 164; Albany pledge, 126; pastor's call, 127, 132; van Dieren call, 127, 138; Sybrandt's accounts, 149 ff. La Grange, Johannis, jr., 124. Laucks, Willem, 249. Lauer, Peter: letter from Weyerman, 201, 211. Laurensen, Andries, 30. Laws. See Church laws. Lawyer, Johannis [Johannes], 204, 210. Lay readers. See Officers of the congregation. Leensen, Andreas, 40. Leeuwenbos [Leeuw Bos], Simon, 91. Le Grance. See Lagrange. Lendrich, Albert, 54, 55. Lendrich [Arnoldus, Leenderich, Lendrig, Lendrigh], Arnoldus [Andreas], 51 ff., 256. Leo, emperor, 111. Leppenaar, Leppener, Lespinard. See Lispe- nard. Leydig, Philip, 235, 240, 261. Liberty of worship. See Worship, Freedom of. Licht, Joan de, 255. Lidman, Mr., 194. Liebstadt. See Lippstadt. Ligarius, Mr., 59. Ligt, Joan de, 20, 255. Lindeboom, Jan, 237, 239, 242, 243. Lindermann, Jon., 142. Lippstadt [Liebstadt], Andraes Rees von der, 40; see also Rees. Lips, Mrs. Elizabeth, 8, 10. Lispenard [Leppenaar, Leppener, Lespinard], Anthony [Anthoine], 92, 126, 153, 156. Litscho, Daniel, 17. Little Falls [Manheim, Remensynder's Bush, The Falls]: distance from Canna Schoch, 204; distance from Kinderhook, 204. Liturgy. See Amsterdam Church Order. Livingston, Robert C. [Robert, Robert, junior], 248, 249, 252; letter, 251, 253. Livingston manor, 248. Lock, Lars, 101. London Lutherans: funds, 184; N. Y. Luth- erans' complaints, 89; Sybrandt, 170, 174; van Dieren, 217, 225; see also English sup- port of N. Y. Lutherans. Long Island Lutherans, 14, 38, 39. Loon, Albert [Allebert] van, 124, 125. Loon, Jan van, 124, 125. Loon, Klas van, 124. Loon, Matthijs van, 124. Loonenburg [Loneburg, Looneburg, Loonen- burgh, Lunenburg; mod. Athens] Luth. con- gregation, 58, 184, 212; letters, 250, 251, 252; Albany pastor, 184; church attendance, 196; church building, 183, 184, 185, 189, 190, 249; church site, 184, 190; parsonage, 246. Lord's Prayer unknown, 198. Lord's Supper. See Holy Communion. Lourentz, Severyn, 87. Lovelace, Francis, colonial governor of N. Y., 65, 74, 75, 76. Luc, Eurt, 40. Liibeck, Sybrandt's collection at, 163, 170, 172, 173. Lunenburg. See Loonenburg. Luth.: This abbreviation used in most sub- heads. Lutheran. . . [first word of title]. See second word. Lutheran archives and sources, 5 ff . Lutheran Historical Soc, Gettysburg, Pa., 102. Lutheran pastors. See Pastors, Luth., N. Y. and New Jersey colonies. Lutheran World Convention, 8. Lutheranism: catechism booklet needed, 99; Holland-N.Y. compared, 71. Lutherans in N. Y.: adjustments with Re- formed church 6; Bibles in older families, 140; Burnet (Gov.) commends, 181; Cal- vinists' opinion of, 203; eager to establish church, 98; European ways not perpetu- ated, 6; ignorance among, 198; immigration during English period, 6; occupations, 5; persecution, 5, 36; Reformed raids, 99; rad- icalism absent, 6; schisms, 205, see also in- dividual churches; Stuyvesant, 28; well- established church, 238. 272 The New York Public Library Lutherans in various localities [American and foreign]: See Albany, Amsterdam, Copen- hagen, Curacao, Diskedamernesie, Europe, Hackensack, Hamburg, Highlands, Holstein, Kiel, Kinderhook, Little Falls, London, Long Island, Loonenburg, Manhattan, New Hack- ensack, New Town, New York, North river, Pennsylvania, Queensbury, Remmerbock, Rhinebeck, St. Thomas, Santee Forks, Scho- harie, Tolpenhagen, Virginia, Wittenbergh. Lutter called to New York, 97, 98. Luttman & Remmers, 104, 259. Luttrot, Johan Jacob, 128, 138. Lying [prevarication], 214. M M. M. See Meyer, Marten. Macaulay, Maquas. See Mohawks. McKnight, Henry T., 9. Maertensen, Cornelis, 44. Magnus [Magni], Jonas, 40. Man, Hendrich [Henrich], 204, 210, 212. Manhattan [Manathans, Manhatans, Manhates, Manhathanz, Mantans] Luth. congregation, 38; Arnzius' arrival, 85; condition, 86; estab- lishment of church, 5; Gutwasser's troubles, 43; number, 39; storm, 56; thanksgiving service, 75; see also New Netherland con- gregation. Manis, blacksmith, 90, 91. Manne's Postilla on the Gospels, 227. Marisen, Cornelis, 40. Marnburg hymnal, 236. Marriage: Fabritius, 68, 70; fees, 139, 246; General Church Orders, 147; illegitimate child, 147; pastor's duties, 16; Spaler, 198; van Dieren, 207, 215. Masaus's Short Treatise on the Difference be- tween the Lutherans and the Reformed, 226, 227. Maspeth Kill [Mitspatskill], 34. Masters [MasTtrs], Johan, 40. Matheysen, Corneelus, 40. Mayer's Postilla on the Gospels for Sundays and Festivals, 227. Maynertsoon [Raynertsoon], Jan, 40. Meetings, Religious. See Church services. Megapolensis [Ablentie], Johannes [John van Meklenburg], Reformed minister, 77. Meijsinger, Nicolaas, 222. Meklenburg. See Megapolensis. Melchior, Jochum, 241. Menagens, J., 236. Mensen, Is. See Smensen, J. Mentzer, consistorial councilor, 141. Merchant's travel pass, 228. Merckerk, Johan, 92. Meulen, Joh. vander, 58. Meyer, domine, 154, 158, 180, 196. Meyer, Gerrit, 40. Meyer [Meyers], Marten [Maerten, Marten M. M.] Jansen, 40, 79, 83, 87. Meyere, Cornelis de, 104, 154, 158, 159. Meyndersen, Burgert [Burgard], 95, 96. Michael, Johan Schutz. See Schiitze, Johan Michael. Michels, Dr., 116, 129, 130. Michgalsen, Siester, 40. Miller, Johan Christegan, 128, 138. Ministers. See Pastors. Misler, Johan Gotfried, 130. Mitspatskill. See Maspeth Kill. Mohawk [Maculay, Maquas] Indians, 72. Molenaer, Gerrit, 40. Moller, Matys, 40. Morals, 71. Miiller, Salomon Fredrik, 244. Mulder. See Muller. Mulen, Johannis van, 50. Muller [Mulder], Carsten, 237, 239, 240, 242, 243. N N. [Niessen?], 36. "N., N., Mr., of Amsterdam," 252. N. Y. : This abbreviation used in most subheads. Nassau-Idsteinscher und Rheingraflicher Kir- chen Ordnung, 198, 199. Negroes, 68, 70, 207, 209, 218. Neher, Frans, 200. Netherlands [United Provinces]. States Gen- eral See States General. Neuville [Noville], Jan de, 244. New Hackensack: distance to Kinderhook, 204. New Jersey Lutherans. See New York and New Jersey Lutherans; also various communities, as Hackensack. New Netherland. Director General and Coun- cil, 24, 26, 32, 36; see also Stuyvesant. New Netherland Lutherans: letters, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 30, 34, 36, 37, 38, 41, 43; for later communications, see New York Luth. congregation; beginnings, 5; Goetwasser, 26 ff.; persecution, 26 ff., 255; size and con- dition of congregation, 14, 39; States General and West India Co., 18, 21. For later refer- ences, see New York Luth. congregation. New Town [mod. West Camp] Lutherans: distance from Loonenburg, 248; pastor's sup- port, 248; services in German, 246. New York: Holland compared to, 71; living costs, 62; Scohary, distance to, 204; sheriff examines Hoffgoed's credentials, 228, 233. New York colonial governors: English tol- erance, 241; see also references under the names of individual governors, as Stuyve- sant, Nicolls, etc. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 — Index 273 New York Luth. congregation: letters, peti- tions, etc., 20, 31, 48, 50, 52, 56, 57, 60, 67, 74, 83, 86, 96; Albany-Hackensack contro- versies, 113, 126, 187 ff.; Amst. consistory's printed letter of advice, 185, 195, 196; Amst. consistory aid sought, 69, 71, 103, 110, 242, 243, 244, 260, 261; Arnzius, 81 ff.; Berkenmeyer, 117 ff.; books needed, 236; church building, 77, 79, 83, 86, 88, 100, 139, 159, 181, 235, 238, 243, 260; house purchased, 77, 79, 83, seceded group secures, 238, 239, 241; churchmasters, 155; Clinton (Gov.) licences, 241; elders, deacons and overseers, first elected, 70; English tolera- tion, 80; Fabritius, 70 ff.; funds sought, 70, 138; Leydig-Houser European trip, 235, 240; Hackensack controversy, 132, 151; Holland deposit of funds, 144; meetings, see Worship, Freedom of; official recogni- tion, 66; Old Luth. church, location of, 241; pastor called, first, 37 ff.; persecution, 70; power of attorney, 189; Reformed church opposition, 68, 70, 99; relationships with other congregations, 187, 188; St. Thomas, W. I., contribution, 100, 139; schism [two churches and pastors], 87, 127, 132, 133, 238, 240; Schohary-Hackensack controversy, 159; Schutz, 196 ff.; sea captains' affidavit, 237, 239; size condition, etc., 50, 56, 67, 68, 71, 86, 91, 99, 138, 139, 155, 159, 181, 201, 238, 242, losses through persecution, 16, 39; Sybrandt, 135 ff., 157, 169; tax for Calvinist minister's support, 87; two churches, see schism; unique, 100; van Die- ren, 132 ff.; worship, freedom of, 48, 80, 81, 241; ordinances prohibiting meetings, 24, 33, 37, 39, 43, petition granted, 49; South river considered, 49; Ziegenhagen report, 235. New York Luth. consistory [church council]: letters, petitions, etc., 94, 96, 98, 110, 111, 126, 127, 134, 135, 226, 228, 235, 238, 243; for other communications, see New Nether- land Lutherans; New York Luth. congre- gation; New York Luth. elders and deacons. New York Luth. elders and deacons: letters, petitions, etc., 76, 77, 80, 92; for other com- munications, see New York Luth. congrega- tion; New York Luth. consistory. New York [Luth.] ministerium, 7. New York-New Jersey Lutherans: letter about van Dieren, 202. New York Public Library, 9. Newburg, 138. Newtown Creek, L. I. See Maspeth Kill. Nicene creed, 121. Nicolls, Matthias, 66, 67. Nicolls [Nicolaes Nicols], Richard [Ritzaert], first English N. Y. governor, 48, 49, 50, 53, 65, 74, 75. Nicum, John, 6, 7. Niessen [Nyssen], Christiaen [Chrysteyan, Chrystyaen], 30, 38, 40; see also N. Nieugaard, Christian: Berkenmeyer, 186; Sy- brandt, 154, 159; see also Laasbye and Nieu- gaard. Non, Rebecca, 158. North America: population, 238. North river [Hudson] Lutherans, 112, 198; see also various congregations as Albany. Noville. See Neuville. Nuys, Jan van: widow of, 244. Nyssen. See Nyssen. O Oath of allegiance: N. Y. Luth. families, 48, 49; see also Fabritius. Officers [elders, deacons, overseers, church- masters, Kerkmeister, lay readers, precentors, presbyters] of the Luth. congregations: Al- bany, 155; Christmas call, 90; elections, 70; lay readers, 139, 186, 198; N. Y., 70, 137, 138, 155; oath of fidelity, 66; ordination by presbyters, 102; Rhinebeck - Queensbury, 198. Old Luth. church, N. Y.: funds, 240; Leydig- Houser European mission, 235, 238, 240; petition of separation, 241. Orange, Fort. See Albany, 67 ( note ) . Ordinance, General church. See Church ordi- nance, General. Ordination. See Pastor: ordination. Orthodoxy: doctrine, 194; pastor, 192. Osiander [Osiandrus], Andreas. See Bible: New Testament: Gospels. Overseers. See Officers of the congregation. P Paradijshofkens [Paradijs Hoffje, Paradise Gar- dens], 104, 105, 107, 259. Parsonages, Luth.: Albany, 183; Hackensack, 209; Loonenburg, 184, 185, 246; N. Y., 88; Spaler, 198, 199. Passage money. See Pastor: passage money. Pastor [Luth. unless other denomination speci- fied]: Albany-Loonenburg, 183, 246; calls [to Goetwasser's acceptance], 6, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 22; Calvinist children, 203; certificates by States General and West In- dia Co., 21, 31; conveyance of, within par- ish, 248; deportation of, 21; see also Goet- wasser; duties, pastoral, 16, 121; dwellings, see Parsonages; English, 146, 217; exam- ination and ordination, 107, 142, 192 ff., 207, 218, 219, 238, see also individual pas- tors, bishop's authority delegated, 101, 102; fear of, 199; N. Y. - Hackensack - Albany arrangement, 112 ff., Nicolls (Gov.), 48, 274 The New York Public Library Pastor [Luth. unless other denomination speci- fied], continued 49, 50, 53, 65, 75; passage money, 54, 61, 78, 82, 83, 95, 98, 113, 114, 116, 122, 133, 135, 137, 149, 150, 152, 153, 157, 161, 170, 173, 196, 247, 252, 253; preaching, see Preaching; precentor, 16; qualifications [character, language, nationality, etc.], 16, 21, 50, 77, 114, 116, 125, 126, 163, 190, 191, 196, 247, 255; Reformed church, Luth. support of, 86, 88; salary and support, 14, 15, 33, 76, 78, 95, 98, 127, 189, 247; Albany, 28, 56, 67, 76, 78, 112, 113, 116, 119, 122, 124, 126, 131, 132, 133, 134, 137, 139, 140, 156, 181, 183, 246; Amsterdam aid, 93, 94; Berkenmeyer's trouble, 132, 140, 176, 190, Burnet's (Gov.) subscription, 181; Diske- damerensie, 246; farm, 201; firewood, 246; Goetwasser's claim, 43, 44; Hackensack, 113, 116, 126, 151, 156; kitchen expenses, 246; Loonenburg, 183, 246, 252, N. Y., 16, 23, 49, 50, 53, 58, 59, 61, 62, 78, 80, 87, 96, 97, 100, 112 ff., 122, 127, 133, 139, 169, 181, 189, 242, 253; Newton, 248; van Die- ren, 213; student assistants, 70, 71; Swedish in Pennsylvania, 207, 214, see also exam- ination and ordination; time apportionment, 112, 183, 248, free time, 246; unorthodoxy, 192. Pastors, Luth.: N. Y. and New Jersey colonies. See Arents, Bemhardus; Berkenmeyer, Willem Christoph; Fabritius, Jacobus; Falck- ner, Daniel; Falckner, Justus; Goetwasser, Johannes Eraestus; Knoll, Michael Christian; Spaler, Johann; Weygand, Johann Albert; Wolff, Johann David. Paulus Hoeck, 39. Penal institutions, 238. Pennsylvania: compared to N. Y., 197; first American Luth. synod, 6; Hoffgoed, 228; see also Swedish Lutherans, Pennsylvania. Peper, Micel [Mich.], 128, 137. Persecution, Religious. See Lutherans: persecu- tion; Religious liberty; etc. Peters, Chris in, 40. Petersen, Dirich, 78. Peterson, John, 241. Petitions. See name of petitioning body, as New York Luth. congregation. Pettersson [Pettersen, Petterson], George, 227, 231, 236, 239, 242, 244, 245. Pietersen, Albert, 40. Pietersoon, Jan, 40. Pietism, 194. Pittersz, Magnus, 38. Placards: Gutwasser, 30; Knoll, 211. Poope, Thomas, 259. Population, Nature of, in North America, 238. Postilla of the Gospels and the Epistles, Dutch Luth., requested, 226; see also Mayer; Manne. Power of attorney. See Sybrandt. Prayer books, 199, 229; see also Havermann, Johann. Christelijcke Ghebeden. Praying, Instruction in, 198. Preaching, Luth.: arrangements, 112, 198; cer- tificate, 65; Charles n, 75; forbidden, 24; Hoffgoed, 230; licence, 32, 70; pastor's duty, 16, 31; van Dieren, 159, 178, 193. Presbyterian church, 243; see also Scottish Presbyterian church. Presbyters. See Officers of the congregation. Priester Stuhl. See Pulpit. Prince, Royal. See Jesus. Privateers, 92, 93. Proclamations forbidding meetings, 254. Proselytizing. See Reformed church: prosely- tizing. Protestant Episcopal church: European sup- port, 243; Luth. support, 146. Psalm books, 85, 99. Psalters, 104, 107, 109, 259. Pulpit: van Dieren barred from, 138. Punishments, Religious, 146, 148; parents, 177. Q Quakerism, 194. Queensbury [Quinsberg; mod. West Camp]: Luth. congregation, 198; distance from Rhinebeck, 198; land grant [Queen Anne's] to High Germans, 197. R Ramapo. See Remmerbock. Rauss, Johann Kaspar, 202. Raynertsoon. See Maynertsoon. Readers, Lay. See Officers of the congregation. Reading, Instruction in, 198. Recording fees, 246. Rees [Reesz], Andries [Andreas], 30, 49; see also Lippstadt. Reformed church [Calvinists] : Albany, 90, 125, 181, 184; archives, 5; Arnzius, 83; baptism, 178, 179; booklet (catechism) opposmg Re- formed church needed, 99; books, Luth., 107, 201; children incited against Luth. pas- tors, 203; European contributions, 243; Fabritius, 68, 76, 83; formulary, 178; Gut- wasser, 31; Indians, teaching of, 70; intol- erance, 5, 34; Jesuit preacher, 21; Luth. affiliation, 6; Luth. church building, 184, 185; Luth. support of pastor, 86, 87, 88; monopoly, 5, 20, 87, 125; opinions, opposed, 99-100; opposition to Lutherans, 5, 33, 68, 86, 90; pastor requested, 80; pledges to Luth. church, 185; proselytizing, 25, 26, 29, 94, 125, 185; Schohary, 143; Stuyvesant oath, 20, 28, 31; Tappan, 206, van Dieren, 145 ff.; witnesses, 178. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 — Index 275 Reformed ministers, N. Y. colony. See Drisius, Samuel; Megapolensis, Johannes. Reinbeck. See Rhinebeck. Religious instruction. See Teaching [religious and secular] . Religious liberty: Albany, 125; Amst. medi- ation sought, 16 ff., 19; Charles n, 66, 74; connivance, 19, 22, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 42; Dutch persecution, 5, 20, 24, 49, 254; English consent, 5, 49, 53, 56, 68, 74, 75, 81, 88, 100, 241; Lovelace (Gov.), 65, 74, 75; Lutherans embued with, 6; molestation forbidden, 66; Nicolls (Gov.), 74; States General, 13, 25; Stuyvesant's obstruction, 17 ff.; West India Co., 14, 20, 25, 254; see also Church services. Religious services. See Church services. Remmerbock [Remerborch, Rommerboch, t. e. Ramapo; mod. Mahwah]: distance from Hackensack, 204; elders' and deacons' an- nouncement, 221. Remmers. See Luttman & Remmers. Rents. See Arnzius. Res., A., 79. Rhinebeck: distance from Queensbury, 198; Germans in, 197. Rhinebeck Luth. congregation: church build- ing, 199; congregation [size, condition, etc.], 198; see also Schoharie-Rhinebeck-Hacken- sack. Rhinebeck-Queensbury congregations call pas- tor, 197. Richelman, Mr., 260. Ritual, Book of [formulierboek], 260. Roman Catholics. See Hoffgoed. Rommerboch. See Remmerbock. Ronda [Ronde], Nicolaas de, 243, 244, 245. Roosar, Paul, 58. Roschman, Johannes, 200. Rotterdam: travel expense to Amst., 170. Royal chapel, London, 197. Ruccius, Walter M., 9. Rudmann, Andreas [Andrew]: letters, 101, 102; N. Y. pastorate, 99; ordination au- thority, 101; persuades Falckner to become N. Y. pastor, 99, 10. Ruyven, C. van, 24, 26, 31. S Sachse, Julius F. Justus Falckner, 7, 98, 102, 111, 136. Sack, Arent van, 124. Sacraments: Director General and Council for- bid, 24; pastor, 122, 192, 193; see also Holy Communion. St. Thomas [West Indies], 100, 139. Salary of pastor. See Pastor: salary and main- tenance. Samler, Johan Nicolaus, 128. Sandel, Andreas, 103. Santee Forks, S. C, 237. Savages. See Indians. Scarlatina [Scherlaken], 128. Schafer, Henry, 241. Schardye, Cllass, 40. Scheffer, Hendrick, 210. Scheffer, Jacob, 200. Scheffer, Johannes, 204. Schenectady-Esopus-Albany pastor, 182. Schisms. See various congregations, as New York Luth. congregation. Schleydorn [Schlydorn], W., 40, 115, 126, 134, 140, 223. Schoharie: distance to Canat Schary, 204; dis- tance to Hackensack, 204; distance to N. Y., 204. Schoharie [Schoggeri, Schohary, Scoggari, Tsoggari, Tzachochair] Lutherans: Bohm, 218; congregation [size, nature, etc.], 143; controversy with N. Y.-Hackensack, 159; English pastor, 141; High German pastor, 142; Knoll, 211; schism, 205, 208, 213; Sommer, 241; van Dieren, 127, 132, 137, 141, 142, 143, 159, 211, 218, 223, 224. Schoharie [ Schohary ] -Kinderhook-Canajoharie Lutherans: printed reply to Knoll, 208. Schoharie-Rhinebeck-Hackensack Luth. con- gregations: Schiitz, 200. School buildings and money, Luth.: Albany, 181, 182, 185; Loonenberg, 185; N. Y., 238, 243, 244, 261; outside N. Y., 186; Sybrandt, 167; see also Teaching [religious and secu- lar]. Schoolmasters: Albany, 185, 186; Loonenberg, 190. Schoonwald, Samuel, 259, 260. Schortz, Jorg, 200. Schramm, Joost, 97. Schrick [Schreck, Schricken], Paulus [Poulus], 18, 19, 21, 22, 23. Schiit. See Schiitz. Schiitz, Johann Liichart [J. H.], 128, 137. Schiitz [Schiitze, Schut], Johann Michael [Miichael], 100, 200; Amst. visits, 110, 138, 196, 202, 260; church subscription, 110, 135; compensation, 135; English visit, 211; Knoll, 213; van Dieren controversy, 137 ff., 211 ff. Schutze, Johan Henry, 123. Scottish Presbyterian church, 243. Seal [numismatics] : Old Lutheran church priv- ilege, 241; ordinance, credibility of, 178, 195; Sybrandt's certificate, 159; van Dieren's [signature?], 208. Searly [Serley], Jacob, 144, 180. Second English war, 60. Seebach [Zeebach], David, 237, 239, 240, 242. Seelman, Petrus Theodorus, 130. Seifer, Heinrich, 236. Serley. See Searly. 276 The New York Public Library Sermons: Albany first, 73; election, 70; funeral, 139; German language, 230; N. Y. first, 68; penitential, 246. Services, Religious. See Church services. Seunson, John, 40. Seven Years' war, 243. Seybrandt. See Sybrandt. Ship fare, 171; see also Pastor: passage money. Shleydorn, W., 126. Sick, Pastor's visits to, 70, 122. Sigeler, Daniel, 128. Sille, Nicasius de, 30. Sillejonck, Hans, 30. Simmedinger [Zimmerdinger], Uldrig, 128, 137. Sins: doubting, 179; Holy Ghost, against, 208, 214; see also the various social crimes. Sluyter, Heynrick Jansen, 40. Smalcald Articles, 122. Smeman [i. e. Smeeman], Herman [Harman], 30, 40. Smensen, J., 40. Snyder, Claes, 40. Sommer, Peter Nicolas, 247, 249. Sonneman, of Hackensack, 207, 209, 217. South [Delaware] river. See Swedish Luth- erans, South river. Spaan, Philip [Philipp], 249, 250, 251, 252. Spaler, Johann [Johannes], Luth. pastor, N. Y. colony, 1732-1736: letters, 197, 224; Berk- enmeyer's accusations, 225; Virginia call, 197; Ziegenhagen, 197. Spanish Sea story, 84. Spieringh, Hendrick Jansen, 40. Staatsborg [mod. Wurtemburgh] Lutherans, 229. States General: Amst. consistory, 16 ff., 33, 35, 37, 41; N. Y. Lutherans, 13, 16, 20, 38, 43; religious freedom, 25, 27, 28, 30; Schrick, 18, 19; Stuyvesant, 25, 43. Stauber, Jacob, 197. Steelman, Jan Hyndrychse, 40. Steinmets, Casper, 21, 32, 40, 95. Stenhuse, Eldert Juryanse van, 40. Stiebsandt. See Stuyvesant. Stoffelsen [Stofssen], Stoffel [Stofve], 40. Stow, Charles, 104, 259. Stuberauch, Hendrick [Henrich], 210, 212. Stuhl, Priester. See Pulpit. Stuttgart consistory: Frommann letter, 232. Stuyvesant [Siebsandt], Peter [Petrus], gover- nor general of New Netherland: Albany re- pression, 125; departure, 25, 28, 33; opposi- tion to Lutherans, 15 ff., 33 ff., 37, 39, 43; reply to Lutherans' petition, 31; South river (Swedish) Lutherans, 34; see also New Netherland: Director General and Council. Succer [ship], 104, 259. Support of pastor. See Pastor: salary and main- tenance. Swaleuw, de, sloop, 259. Swedes in America, 238. Swedish Lutherans, Pennsylvania: church building funds, 235; doctrine, 111; first synod, 66; Germans, 197; Ministerium, 99, 101; Palatine preacher, 142; van Dieren, 194, 207, 214, 217. Swedish Lutherans, South river: Fabritius, 76, 78, 83; Stuyvesant's tolerance, 34, 39. Swiss in America, 238. Swol. See Zwolle. Sybrandt [Seybrandt, Sybrand, Sybrands, Sy- brandsz, Sybrant, Sybrants], Johannes: ac- count [financial information], 149, 155, sec- ond, 172; Amst. consistory, 160, 162, 163, 165, 176, 180, 188; Amst., visits to, 112, 115, 126, 129, 133, 137, 138, 154; Berken- meyer, 119, 120, 138, 144, 152, 160, cer- tificate, 165, 166; Boscerck signs call, 149; Broeck defends, 165; collection-book, 137; compensation, 153, 156; Durkoop affidavit, 170, 173; English trips, 137, 163, 174; Euro- pean contributions, 260; expense account, 135, 136, 149, 154, 155, 159, 161, 168, 170, 172, Brand's account, 169, Texel cash, 170, traveling expense, 150, 161, 169, 173; fi- nancial arrangements, 113, 122, 133, 135, 137, 155, 161; Hamburg, 116, 118, 128, 157, 166; Lispenard's estimate, 153, 156; Mey- ere and Nieugaard settlement, 159; N. Y. consistory declaration, 149, 164; pastor, 122, 149; power of attorney, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 132, 133, 134, 150, 154, 189; scarletina, 128; unorthodoxy, 144; will, 166. "Syncretistisch," 141. Synod, First American, Lutheran, 6. T Tadens [Tadeus], Mychgil [Michiel], 51, 57, 58, 61, 79. Tappan: Reformed and Luth. congregations: Luth. relations, 145; van Dieren, 143, 145, 206, 216. Taxes: Luth. contribution to Reformed pastor's support, 86, 87, 88, 89. Teaching [religious and secular]: Fabritius, 68; Indians, 70; pastor as teacher, 17, 64, 71; van Dieren's accusation, 206; see also School buildings and money; School masters. Teijs, Johannes, 222. Texel, 64, 84, 170. Thompson, Charles O., 9. Tiebe, theological student, 118 (note). Tisteyn [Tistein], C, 226, 227, 231. Tolerance, Religious. See Religious liberty. Tolpenhagen, Pa., Lutherans: Berkenmeyer warns against van Dieren, 213; Knoll call, 221, 234; van Dieren calL 213. The Lutheran Church in New York, 1649-1772 — Index 277 Tramps [Landloopers], 238. Transportation. See Passage money. Traphagen [Traphegen], Wilman [Wilmen], 40. Traveling expenses. See Passage money. Trexler, Samuel, 10. Tsogarri. See Schohari. Type font requested, 72. Tysen, Claes, 40. Tzachochair. See Schohari. U United Luth. Synod of New York, 6, 7. United Netherlands. See Netherlands [United Provinces]. V Valkenaar [Valkener]. See Falckner. van [prefix in surname]. See following word, as Dieren, John Bernhard van. Velten, president pro tern of Amst. consistory, 116, 227. Verborn, Mr., 93. Verbroeck. See Borat. Vergoude Moelen (ship), 33. Vielt, Johann, 100. Virginia Lutherans, 197. Vlakbosch. See Flatbush. Vogelsang, De (ship), 33. Voss, Johanns, 204. Voyage money. See Pastor: passage money. W Waegh [Wage], De (ship), 25, 27, 30. Wagner, Enten, 204. Wammer, Peter, 204. Wannemaker, Dieder, 222. Wannemaker, Peter, 222. Wars [mentioned]. See French and Indian Wars; King George's War; King William's War; Second English War; Seven Years' War. Wasbleeker, De (ship), 44. Weisser, Gallus Jacob, 233. Wentz, Abdel Ross, 8. Wesling, J., 140. Wessels [Wesel, Wesels, Wessel, Wessells], David [Davidt, Davit], 21, 30, 32, 38, 40, 42, 49, 57, 58, 77, 79, 87. West India Co., 30; Amst. consistory's inter- cession, 20, 34, 37, 41, 254, 255; connivance, 23, 41; Gutwasser, 43; Hilbrants-Ligt-Wy- brants intercession, 20, 255; New Nether- land Lutherans' petitions, 14, 16, 19, 20, 38; orders permitting religious freedom, 25, 27, 28, 30, 39; Schrick not to see, 18, 19; Stuyvesant's attitude, 25 ff.; tolerance de- nied, 22, 254; Wybrants intercedes, 20, 255. West Indies, 87, 174; see also St. Thomas. Weyerman, Johannes: letter to Peter Lauer, 201, 211. Weygand [Weygant], Johann [John] Albert, Luth. pastor, New York colony, 1749-1770, 237; letters, 235, 238, 242, 243, 245. White, Paul C, 10. Wijbrants, Johannes, 255. Wilbordt, Cobes, 40. Willemsen, Henderich [Heinderich, Henderick, Hinderich, Hinderick, Hindrick], 17, 30, 32, 38, 42, 81, 83; address, 42. Winkelhoeck [i. e. Winckelhoeck], Pieter Jan- sen, 30. Winkler, Johan Fredrick, 130. Wit, Claes de, 30. Wit, Jan de, 92, 93. Wittenbergh, 105. Woglom [Woggelum, Woglen, Worlum], Pie- ter van, 95, 96, 100, 110, 115; bequest, 115; death, 128. Wolf, Cristian, 40. Wolff [Wolf, Woolf], Johann [Johan, John] David, Luth. pastor, New Jersey colony, 1734-1745, 241; letters, 226, 228, 235, 238, 242. Wolff enbiittel [Wolffenbuttel], Wollgang Kar- sten von, 40. Workhouse inmates in America, 238. Worship, Freedom of. See Religious liberty. Wiirtenberg [Wurtenburger Land]: Hoffgoed origins, 228, 230, 231, 233, 234, 235. Wybrants [Wijbrants], Johannes, 20, 255. Y Yansen. See Jansen. Ynslegel, Melgert Diedrigh, 128. York, Duke of [later, James n]: burial of dead, 76; freedom of worship, 70, 71, 80, 86, 87, 88; London pastors should handle complaints, 89. Young people: books to arouse, 107; ignorance, 99; Reformed's proselytizing, 29, 94, 125, 185; training, 107, 185. Z Zeebach. See Seebach. Zenger, J. Peter, 210, 222. Zetskoorn, Abelius [Avelius], 102. Ziegenhagen [Zugenhagen], Friedrich Michael, 197, 235. Zimmerdinger. See Simmedinger. Zimmerman, Anders, 128. Zufelt, Jerg Hans, 200. Zwierlein, Frederick J. Religion in New Nether- land, 5.