The carelessness of our people in preserving the materials
for their history, renders it often very difficult to trace their labors.
This is particularly true of the Sabine region. Before the organization of
the Sabine Association, but little is known. Rev. N. H. Bray has done much
to preserve the records of the association, but his MS., which I procured at
great trouble, contains little besides copies of the minutes. It is greatly
to be regretted that he did not commit his recollections to paper. I copy
from the introduction to his work the following facts in regard to the early
history of the Baptists of this region :
"I am informed that in the year 1824 (in the early part)
Elder William Cook, of Mississippi, moved here and settled on the Negrete
Bayou, then in Natchitoches
Parish, with his family. Elder Cook certainly preached the
first Baptist sermon in this part of the country. He kept up regular
preaching at the houses of his neighbors, and baptized sister L. Montgomery,
and shortly afterwards her husband, J. P. Montgomery. These were the first
baptized in that part of the State. Father J. P. Montgomery is still (1863)
living, and states that, although he has no date to his birth, he thinks he
is 106 years old. He retains his mental faculties remarkably well.
" Some time in the year 1825, the Negrete, or Zion Hill
Church, was constituted by Elder W. Cook and P. W. Robert, then a missionary
of the Louisiana Association, with the following members : Sister L.
Montgomery, J. P. Montgomery, Nancy Norris, John
Thompson and wife. Elder James Martin and wife, together with
William Cook and wife, making nine members in all. Elder James Martin had
moved here about this time. [He died in 1830.]
"The church was soon increased by letters and baptism, but
the church records having been accidentally destroyed by fire, much valuable
information was thus lost. Elder W. Cook was called to the care of the
church, and continued so until his death, [September
19, 1829.] At an early date [1829] the church became a member
of the Louisiana Association.
"Elder Joseph Willis, who was much beloved by all who knew
him, labored well and faithfully for his Master. He was confined to his bed
for many long years, but was always ready to defend his Master's cause and
warn sinners whenever they came about him.
''After the death of William Cook, Elder Benjamin Garlington,
the first Baptist preacher the writer ever heard in America, was called to
the care of the church, and remained until about 1841 or 1812, when a very
unpleasant trouble took place, resulting in the division
of the church, the pastor leaving with some of its members, a
small majority. At the association the minority was declared in order, and
declared to be the church proper, about 1842 or 1843.
"Elders B. C. Roberts and [A. J.] Spencer were sent out as
missionaries by the Louisiana Baptist Association. Brother E. A. Campbell, a
licensed preacher, moved in from the eastern part of the State [in 1845],
and preached to Zion Hill Church. Elder A. Phillips
also came from Mississippi, and in a short time Elder D. C.
McCorley, by whose labors the following churches were built up : Mount
Pleasant, Pleasant Hill, Many, Liberty (now called Pisgah), and Bethel. W.
L. Sibley came as an ordained preacher in 1847 from Livingston Parish,
Campbell was ordained in 1846, and N. H. Bray licensed in 1847. About the
same time W. C. Southwell was licensed. I also find the name of J, L.
Ritter, but of his labors I have no account.
[1847] Agreeably to previous arrangement, a convention met
with Many Curch (sic), Sabine Parish, October 22, 1847, and after examining
the Articles of Faith of the churches, and finding them orthodox, adopted a
constitution, resolved themselves into an association to be called the
Sabine Association, and adjourned to meet with Zion Hill Church the
following year. Only a short abstract of this meeting is published in the
minutes of 1847, and no account given of the churches
represented or the date of their constitution. The Articles of Faith adopted
embrace the following particulars. 1. The Trinity. 2. The Inspiration and
Sufficiency of the Holy Scriptures. 3. The fall of Adam ; the imputation of
his sin to his posterity, the total depravity of human nature, and man's
inability to recover himself. 4. The election of a definite number;
efficient calling, and justification through the imputed righteousness of
Christ, and the final perseverance of the saints. 5. Christ the one Mediator
by whom the elect were redeemed, 6. The absolute and eternal purpose of God
does not set aside the necessity of secondary causes, but the means are a
part of his decrees. These are made effectual through the agency of the Holy
Spirit. 7. Good works the fruits and evidence of faith. 8. The resurrection
of the dead, the
eternal happiness of the righteous, and the everlasting
misery of the wicked.
GOSPEL ORDER.
1. Christ the head and only law-giver of the church; the
government with the body, the church. 2. The ordinances, baptism and the
Lord's Supper, are to be continued until his second coming. 3. The action of
baptism is immersion; the subject a professed believer
in Christ. 4. The Supper restricted to the regular baptized
members of the church. 5. Baptism the duty and privilege of all believers.
6. The duty of the church to exclude from her fellowship disorderly members
and heretics.
POWERS OF THE ASSOCIATION.
1. The churches are independent and the association merely
advisory, but may withdraw fellowship from disorderly or heretical churches.
2. The duty of the association to preserve union and harmony among the
churches, and to diffuse the Gospel. 3. It is the privilege of all to
contribute of their means to benevolent uses, but giving or not giving shall
be no bar to fellowship.
[1848.] The association met with Zion Hill Church, Sabine
Parish, October 6, 1848. The introductory was preached by Elder Alanson
Phillips. Elder E. A. Campbell was chosen Moderator, and N. P. Smart, Clerk.
The following churches composed this body :
Zion Hill, constituted 1824, 22 members, E. A. Campbell
pastor; Mt. Zion, constituted 1846, 11 members, Elder A. Phillips pastor ;
Pleasant Hill, constituted 1847, 27 members, D. C. McCorley pastor ;
Liberty, constituted 1847, 9 members, D. C. McCorley supply ; Many,
constituted 1847, 16 members, D.C. McCorley
pastor ; Mt. Pleasant, constituted in 1847, 18 members, A.
Phillips pastor ; Toro, constituted 1848, W. L. Sibley pastor; Bethel,
constituted in 1847, 9 members, D. C. McCorley pastor; and Little Flock, 16
members, J. L. Ritter pastor. The last named was
situated in Newton county, Texas. Mt. Pleasant was situated
in Rapides Parish, and Bethel in Natchitoches Parish. The rest were located
in Sabine Parish. In 1847 they report 15 baptisms and an aggregate
membership of 129.
[1849] Met with Mt. Pleasant Church, Rapides Parish, October
9, 1849. The introductory was preached by Elder E. A. Campbell. Elder Calvin
Magee was elected Moderator, and Elder E. A. Campbell, Clerk. Seven churches
were represented, reporting 20 baptisms and 111 members. Calvin Magee was
added to the ministers of this region. He came from
Mississippi, on the lower Pearl river.
[1850] Met with Pleasant Hill Church, Sabine Parish, October
18, 1850. The introductory was preached by W. L. Sibley, who was afterward
elected Moderator, with E. A. Campbell, Clerk. Nine churches were
represented, reporting 15 baptisms and 172 members. Mt. Zion, DeSoto Parish,
established in 1846, was received. This is a different church from that
which aided in the formation of the association, which appears to have
become extinct. This year Elder N. H. Bray, who had been laboring two years
as a licentiate, appears as an ordained minister, and began that career of
usefulness which distinguished his labors in this region. Little Flock was
dismissed to unite in forming an association in Eastern Texas- On Lord's
Day, Elders Vining, Campbell, Miller and
Sibley preached. The congregations were large and very
attentive. The meeting was continued until the next Sabbath, and the
happiest results were experienced. The church, which at the commencement of
the meeting was in a state of dissolution, was greatly
revived. Her divisions were healed, and seven were added by
baptism and four by letter.
[1851.] Met with Toro Church, Sabine Parish, October 17,
1851. The introductory was preached by Elder D. C. McCorley. W. L. Sibley
was chosen Moderator, and E. Campbell, Clerk. Eleven churches were
represented, reporting 4 baptisms and 237
members. Three new churches were received : Little Flock, Mt.
Carmel and Coushatta, all constituted this year.
The following queries were considered and answered :
"1. Where a disagreement exists between two members of
different churches, both claiming to be right, what course should be pursued
; and if each church should maintain that its member is right and refuse or
neglect to bring him to account, what course should then be pursued ?
Answer, Two churches thus situated should immediately resort to some
expedient most likely to promote a reconciliation between the two brothers
at enmity with each other. This done, the churches will be relieved from
further difficulty. To effect this desirable end, we recommend the following
expedient : Let the two churches in their
own capacity select two brethren each, from the nearest
sister churches. The selection should be made with care and caution, making
choice of brethren of experience, mild in disposition, and stable in
character. Then place before these brethren all the facts connected with the
difficulty, omitting nothing calculated to guide them in their
deliberations, granting them the privilege of choosing an umpire in case of
a tie between them. Then the brethren between whom the difficulty exists
should be required to commit
themselves fully to abide their brethren's decision.
" 2. Would it not promote the good health of Zion and
stability of our ministers, for each church to state in her associational
letter, the amount annually paid her pastor 1 Answer : Yes.
" 3. Would it not greatly promote the cause of Zion in this
association, for the churches and ministers to labor conjointly in
protracted meetings ! Answer : This association not only recommends that the
churches labor in that way, but promote by every possible
means in their power, protracted meetings.
" 4. Is it right because a church is poor and not able to do
much, that they should do nothing at all, pecuniarially ? Answer : No, it is
not right, but we recommend the churches carefully to consult the pecuniary
condition of their pastor."
The name of N. W. Hall was added to the list of ministers.
[1852.] Met with Mount Zion Church, DeSoto Parish, October
14, 1852. The introductory was preached by Elder E. A. Campbell. Elder W. L.
Sibley was
chosen Moderator, and E. A. Campbell, Clerk. Fourteen
churches were represented, reporting 34 baptisms and 260 members.
Cedron Church, constituted in 1852, was received this year.
Messengers were appointed to the State Convention, and a resolution passed
approving the efforts of the Convention.
A dissmission was granted the Coushatta Church to unite with
Red River Association. W. C. Southwell was ordained by request of his
church. The ministers present participated. The meeting was continued and
resulted in the addition of six to the church.
Notice is taken of the death of Alanson Phillips during the
year. He was pastor of Mount Pleasant Church, but no account is given of his
life and labors.
[1853.] Met with Many Church, Saline Parish, October 14,
1853. The introductory was preached by Elder W. C. Southwell. Elder N. H.
Bray was elected Moderator, and Elder E. A. Campbell, Clerk. Thirteen
churches were represented, reporting 54 baptisms and a total membership of
304. Psalmist Church, Natchitoches Parish, constituted in 1853, and Big
Sandy Creek Church, Saline County, Texas, were admitted. The name of D. C.
McCarthy disappears from the list of ministers, and that of Isham N
McAlister is added.
The following resolution was adopted :
" Resolved, That this association is fully convinced of the
moral and religious influence of Sabbath-schools, and therefore recommend
that every church within its bounds establish as soon as possible such'
school or schools, as one of the best and readiest methods of elevating,
moralizing and Christianizing the youth of our country."
Elder N. H. Bray was appointed general agent for
Sabbath-schools for the association, with power to appoint as many
sub-agents as he may deem necessary.
The following query was considered :
"Is it according to Gospel order to receive Campbellites into
the full fellowship of a Baptist Church without rebaptism. Ans. As we have
been acquainted with those known as Campbellites or Christian Baptists, who
deny the operation of the Holy Spirit on man in
the regeneration ; that there is no such thing as Christian
experience, as held by the Baptists, and that without Baptism it is
impossible for any to be saved; and who were in the habit of baptizing all
who would consent, without evidence that they professed the
truth as it is in Christ.
" Therefore we do not believe it would be in Gospel order to
receive Campbellites into the membership of a Baptist Church in any other
than the ordinary way of receiving members, viz : by experience and
baptism."
It was also resolved: " That the Abstract of Faith known as
the Union Articles be adopted as our Articles."
These Articles are as follows :
ARTICLES OF FAITH.
"Article 1. We believe in one Triune God, the Father, Son and
Holy Ghost, the same in essence, equal in power and glory.
"Art. 2. "We believe the Scriptures of the Old and New
Testament were given by the inspiration of God, and are the only rule of
faith and practice.
"Art. 3. We believe in the fall of Adam from his original
rectitude, in the imputation of his sin to all his posterity ; the total
depravity of human nature, and in man's inability to restore himself to the
favor of God.
"Art. 4. We believe that God has loved his people with an
everlasting love; that he chose them in Christ before the foundation of the
world ; that he calleth them with a holy and effectual calling, and being
justified through the righteousness of Christ imputed to them, they are kept
by the power of God through faith unto salvation.
"Art. 5. We believe there is one mediator between God and
man, the man Christ Jesus, who by the satisfaction he made to the law and to
justice in becoming an offering for sin, hath by his most precious blood
redeemed the elect from the curse of the law, that they might be holy and
without blame before him in love.
"Art. 6. We believe that good works are the fruits of faith
and follow after justification, and are evidences of a gracious state, and
that all believers are bound to obey every command of God from a principle
of love.
"Art. 7. We believe in the resurrection of the dead and a
general judgment; that the happiness of the righteous and the punishment of
the wicked will be everlasting."
[1854.] Met with Zion Hill Church, Sabine Parish, October 12,
1854. The introductory was preached by Elder N. H. Bray, who was afterward
elected Moderator, with Elder W. C. Southwell, Clerk. Sixteen churches
reported 83 baptisms and 304 members. Ten of these report Sunday-schools in
active operation, aggregating 416 scholars, 57 teachers and 19 conversions
in connection with their labors. The following churches were received: Oak
Grove, Natchitoches Parish ; Good Hope, Sardis and Shiloh, Sabine Parish,
all constituted in 1864. The following ordained ministers are reported; W.
L. Sibley, K. H. Bray, James Scarborough, W. H. Richards, E. A. Campbell,
Samuel Lacy, J. K. McAlister.
The following queries were considered:
"1. From Bethel Church: Would it be a violation of Baptist
order, to receive the testimony of worldlings for or against a
church-member, where no other can be had? and if admitted, how should it be
taken! Your committee would respectfully state, that after
carefully meditating on the above query, they are of opinion
that it would not be Gospel order, or Baptist custom. Hence, as a precedent,
it would result in much evil to our churches.
"2. From Big Sandy Greek Church: Would it be legal for one of
your churches to receive a member into fellowship, who had been baptized by
Peter Eldridge (now of Texas) or his followers, without rebaptism ? Your
committee, in regard to the above query,
would respectfully state that it would not be in order, for
we do not consider such to be really baptized, one essential element of
baptism being wanting, viz : a legal dministrator. And we have reliable
evidence both from Georgia and Alabama, that he left those States in bad
disorder. Besides oral testimony of his having acknowledged it in this
country, and he never having been restored."
In regard to the first answer, it is certainly the usage of
the Baptist Churches, so far as my information goes, to receive the
testimony of credible persons of the world in church trials. The church
should judge in such cases as to the weight to be given to the
testimony. As to the second query, it is to be regretted that
the facts are not given with greater fullness, to enable us to form an
intelligent opinion as to its correctness. Our best authorities agree that
the fact of his being an impostor and an excluded person, would not
necessarily invalidate his acts if authorized by an orderly church.
Nineteen churches report Sunday-schools in operation during
the year. They were organized on the Union plan, and although in connection
with Baptist Churches, were not strictly Baptist schools. N. H. Bray was
continued as general agent. Four hundred
and thirty-five dollars was expended in this work.
During the year, N. H. Bray, James Scarborough and Isham N.
McAlister labored in the employment of the Convention, but within the bounds
of this association.
[1855.] Met with Bethel Church, Natchitoches Parish, October
20th, 1855. The introductory was preached by Elder W. C. Southwell. Elder N
H. Bray was chosen Moderator, and W. C. Southwell, Clerk. Smyrna, Salem, New
Hope, Union and Anococo were received. The pastors were distributed as ,
follows : E. A. Campbell at Zion Hill; N. H. Bray at Pisgah, Many, Mt.
Pleasant and Bethel; I. N. McAlister, Pleasant Hill and Good Hope ; W. L.
Sibley at Toro and Cedron ; S. Lacy at Mt. Zion, Sardis and Shiloh; W. C.
Southwell at Little Flock and Big Sandy Creek; James Scarborough at
Psalmist. Oak Grove dissolved.
[1856] Met with Mt. Pisgah Church, Sabine Parish, October 17,
1856. The introductory by James Scarborough. N. H. Bray was re-elected
Moderator, and W. C. Southwell, Clerk. Twenty churches were represented,
reporting 79 baptisms and 612 members.
The churches were supplied as follows : E. A. Campbell, Zion
Hill, Sabine Parish ; Isham N. McAlister, Pleasant Hill (Sabine), Good Hope
(Sabine), and New Hope (Sabine); James Scarborough, Pisgah (Sabine) and
Bethel (Natchitoches); N. H. Bray, Mt. Pleasant
(Rapides), Smyrna (Sabine), Salem (Sabine) and Anococo
(Sabine); W. L. Sibley, Toro (Sabine) and Cedron (Natchitoches) ; W. C.
Southwell, Little Flock (Sabine), Big Sandy Creek (Sabine) ; S, Lacy,
Psalmist (Natchitoches). Many (Sabine), Sardis (Sabine),
Shiloh (Sabine) and Mt. Zion, in Natchitoches, are reported
without pastors.
During the session of the body, Y. I. Prewitt was ordained by
a chosen Presbytery, composed of N. H. Bray, E. A. Campbell and W. C
Southwell.
Most of the churches in this connection had more or less
prospered during the year. Two missionaries, N. H. Bray and I. N.
McAllister, had labored during the year in the employ of the Domestic
Mission Boards of the Southern Baptist Convention and State Convention.
The report on Temperance states that there had been progress
in this cause. Two neighborhoods were infested with groceries. Most of those
still kept up are declining.
The following query and answer shows the state of religious
sentiment in reference to dram-drinking :
"Query. Should a church member be held in full fellowship who
is in the habit of dram-drinking in groceries, and if not, what steps should
be taken by the church of which he is a member? Answer. We think such
members are in disorder, and not fit subjects for communion, and therefore
recommend the church to which such members belong, to admonish them, and if
they do not quit the evil, expel them."
[1857.] Met with Mt. Pleasant Church, Rapides Parish,
September 18, 1857. The introductory was preached by Elder If. R. Bray, who
was afterward re-elected Moderator, with Mark McAlpin as Clerk. Twenty
churches report twenty-six baptisms, 45 accessions by letter, and a total
membership of 612. W. L. Sibley supplied Toro and Middle Creek; N. H. Bray,
Anococo, Mt. Pleasant and Good Hope; James Scarborough, Pisgah, Psalmist and
Bethel; I. N. McAlister, Pleasant Hill, New Hope and Little Flock; Y. I.
Prewitt, Salem; Saw Lacy, Cedron; W. C. Southwell, Big Sandy Creek.
Many, Zion Hill, Union, Mt. Zion, Smyrna and Sardis appear to
have been without regular preaching.
N. H. Bray had labored during the year as a missionary under
the appointment of the Domestic Mission Board of the Southern Baptist
Convention, and Isham F . McAlister, under appointment of the State
Convention. Their labors were greatly blessed. The
ordained ministers mentioned are : W. L. Sibley, James
Scarborough, N. H. Bray, I. N McAlister, Sam. Lacy, Y. I. Prewett and Eldred
Forshee.
The following queries received attention :
"1. What should be done with a church that does hold a member
in fellowship, who keeps a grogshop ? Ans. Any professor keeping a grogshop
is openly violating the word of God, (Heb. 3: 15, and other passages), and
if any church knowingly allows such a member to continue the practice and
still hold membership, she should be kindly reproved ; and should she still
tolerate such gross conduct, the association is bound by the Bible to
withdraw her fellowship from such church. (See Powers of Association, Art.
1, also Gospel Order, Art. 6). And we do hope that all such churches will
receive this in all kindness.
"2. What course ought a church to pursue with a member who is
in the habit of going to public places and getting drunk, quarreling, and
swearing, and then comes to the church and begs pardon, the church forgives
him, and this member continues to do the same from time to time? Answer. In
the Scriptures the drunkard and the swearer are classed with the vilest of
the vile. See Cor. 5 : 11, 6 : 9-10., Gal. 5 : 19--21, with any other
passages of Scripture in which we are taught not to keep company with such.
We,
therefore, regard all such professors as public offenders
against the laws of Christ's Church. They should be expelled. And farther,
that it does not require that a church should take the same course of
discipline with men committing flagrant crimes as in private offenses, as
laid down in the 18th chapter of Matthew. We, therefore, do hope that the
churches of this association will receive this as a friendly admonition."
The association sent out an address to the churches on the
subject of missions, prepared by Elder N. H. Bray, which puts the question
of duty very pointedly; from which I make this extract : " I would ask my
brethren, Who is to do this work? Will the followers of Thomas Paine,
Voltaire, Hume and Owens, or the world, lead in this great work ? No ; the
church must, and we have many kind friends, who will follow the example.
Brethren, I would kindly invite your attention to the minutes of the
association, and there you will see that twenty churches send up sixty-seven
dollars and twenty-five cents. This is the contribution of six hundred and
twelve professing Christians ; about ten cents each. Can we expect God to
bless us when we live in neglect of a duty so plainly taught in His word?
Resolution after resolution has been spread upon the minutes, but little has
been effected. We, need system, and that system properly carried out."
Elder E. A. Campbell (a sketch of whose labors may be found
elsewhere) departed this life this year, and the association pays him a
proper tribute of respect.
The minutes of the Sabine Sunday-School Union are printed
with the minutes of the association, but the facts given are too meager to
glean farther than the expenditure of $146.47. The general agent. Elder N.
H. Bray, says in his report: " I am sorry to say
that owing to two causes I have not accomplished as much good
as 1 had wished. I have met with opposition from some from whom I expected
aid. My field as a missionary is in part a new one and very large. The
schools now in operation are doing well, and others waiting to be organized.
I am not at all discouraged by our little success this year."
[1858 ] Met with Little Flock Church, Sabine Parish. The
introductory was preached by Elder James Scarborough. K. H, Bray was chosen
Moderator, and J. A. Weeks, Clerk. Nineteen churches were represented,
reporting 56 baptisms and 622 members. I. N.
McAlister supplied Zion Hill, Pleasant Hill, Little Flock and
New Hope ; S. Lacy, Pisgah, Psalmist and Union ; N. H. Bray, Many, Mt.
Pleasant, Smyrna and Anococo; W. L. Sibley, Toro; Y. I. Prewett, Cedron,
Good Hope and Salem; W. C. Southwell, Big Sandy
(Texas), and J. Scarborough, Bethel. Middle Creek was without
a pastor. The Big Sandy Church (Texas) was granted a letter of dismission.
During the year Elder K. H. Bray had labored as a missionary
under the appointment of the Domestic Mission Board ; Y. I. Prewett, as a
Bible Colporteur in the employ of the Bible and Tract Society, and Bro.
White, as Tract Colporteur.
The following query was presented and answered :
" Would it be in accordance with the teachings of the Bible,
or with Baptist usage, for a portion of the members of the church to draw
their letters for the purpose of constituting another church within a short
distance of the same, say three miles. Ans. It would not be in gospel order,
nor according to Baptist usage for a few members of a regular Baptist
church to draw letters of dismission and constitute another
church of the same faith and order in the same neighborhood, especially when
it affects the peace of the church. And if such a church should be
constituted, the association should not receive them into their union."
This decision had reference to a thinly-populated district,
and not to a city.
[ 1859.] Met with Anococo Church, Sabine Parish, October 7,
1859. The introductory was preached by Mathias Scarborough. N. H. Bray was
chosen Moderator, and J. A. Weeks, Clerk. Providence, Macedonia and Pleasant
Grove churches were admitted as
members. The churches were supplied as follows : I. N.
McAlister, Zion Hill, Pleasant Hill, Little Flock and Good Hope ; N H. Bray,
Many, Mt. Pleasant, Anococo and Pleasant Grove; J. Scarborough, Bethel ; W.
L. Sibley, Toro ; Young I. Prewett, Cedron, Good Hope, Smyrna and Salem; B.
F. Robinson, Union ; H. Simmons, Middle Creek ; Samuel Harper, Macedonia ;
Providence was without a pastor.
The ordained ministers residing in the bounds of this
association were : W. L. Sibley, I. N. McAlister, N. H. Bray, H. Simmons, Y.
I. Prewett, S. Harper and E. Forshee.
[I860.] Met with Toro Church, Sabine Parish, October 19,
1860, The introductory was preached by Elder H. Simmons. N. H. Bray was
again elected Moderator, and N. McAlpin, Clerk- Twenty-two churches report
76 baptisms and 709 members. Mt.
Zion is reported as dissolved. Antioch, Rapides Parish, was
admitted, and Union Church was granted a letter of dismission to unite with
the Grand Cane Association. A committee was appointed to wait on New Hope
Church and ascertain why she was not represented in the association; and a
like committee to visit Sardis and Psalmist Churches. The association
heartily approved of the efforts being made by the brethren and friends
generally for the education of Y. I. Prewett; and recommended the churches
to contribute for said purpose. Only about two months' missionary labor was
performed during the year, which was rendered by Elder James Scarborough
under appointment of the Southern Board of Domestic Missions. A committee to
whom the subject of missions was referred, were of the opinion that the
present plan could not be made a success. It was
recommended that the Executive Board be dispensed with and a
Missionary Board be appointed upon a monied basis, allowing five dollars for
membership of churches and two dollars for individuals, and that public
collections shall be taken up at each meeting
of the Board for missionary purposes, and that all monies
thus collected, and also by membership, be appropriated to the payment of
missionaries appointed by the Board, and who shall report at the quarterly
meetings of the Board. The Board consisted of M. Scarborough, Joseph
Scarborough, James Martin, W. L. Sibley, Mark McAlpin, Phillip Koonce and R.
M, Cox.
[1861.] Met with Cedron Church, Natchitoches Parish, October
18, 1861. The introductory was preached by Elder Henry Simmons, who was
afterward elected Moderator, with J. C. Sibley, Clerk. Nineteen churches
report 96 baptism and 671 members. Central Church, Natchitoches Parish, and
Ebenezer, Rapides, were received as members.
The Missionary Board which was appointed at the last meeting,
held one meeting, collected sixteen dollars and met no more; and
consequently no missionary was put into the field. The Board was, however,
continued with a slight alteration, the name of John H, Elzey being
substituted for that of W, L. Sibley.
[1862.] Met with Pleasant Hill Church , Sabine Parish,
October 17, 1862. The introductory was preached by Elder M. Scarborough. N.
H. Bray was chosen
Moderator, and Phillip Koonce, Clerk. Twenty- three churches
reported 100 baptisms and 805 members, including Clemantine Church, Rapides
Parish, and Friendship, Calcasien Parish, which were received at this
meeting. The churches were supplied as follows : I. N. McAlister, Zion Hill,
Little Flock, Good Hope and Clemantine ; Henry Simmons, Pleasant Hill; M.
Scarborough, Many, Pisgah, Bethel, Cedron and Central; N. H. Bray, Mt.
Pleasant, Toro, Anococo and New Hope; S. Harper, Smyrna and Psalmist; Y. I.
Prewett, Antioch; E. Forshee, Friendship.
The association published an obituary of Elder W. L. Sibley,
who died October 4, 1861, of whom notice is taken elsewhere.
James Scarborough had removed to Texas, where he abandoned
the faith and became a Campbellite preacher.
The Missionary Board having held no meeting, nothing had been
done in the work. The association, therefore, took the matter in hand and
appointed Samuel Harper and Young I. Prewett as missionaries. Quite a number
of the churches had enjoyed revivals.
[1863.] Met with Zion Hill Church, Sabine, October 17, 1863.
The introductory was preached by Elder S. Harper. Elder N. H. Bray was
chosen Moderator, and N. P. Smart Clerk. Seventeen churches report 59
baptisms and 582 members. A large number of churches were not represented no
doubt owing to the civil war which was then pending.
The two missionaries appointed at the last meeting, made
cheering reports. The churches had sent up $340.75, which was increased by
the Sabbath collection to $683.45, for missionary purposes. The pastors of
the association were I. K". McAlister at Zion Hill, Pleasant Hill and Little
Flock; M. Scarborough at Many, Bethel, Cedron and Central ; N. H. Bray at
Mt. Pleasant, Toro, Anococo and New Hope ; T. I. Prewitt at Good Hope, Model
Creek and Pleasant Grove ; S. Harper at Providence and Macedonia; E. Forshee
at Friendship. Printed in these minutes is an excellent missionary sermon
preached by Elder N. H. Bray the year before.
[1864.] Met with Bethel Church, Natchitoches Parish, October
15, 1864. The ntroductory sermon was preached by Y. I. Prewett. N. H. Bray
was elected Moderator, and N. P. Smart, Clerk. Sixteen churches report 80
baptisms and 571 members. Seven churches were not represented. No
missionaries were at work during the year, and the sum of
$1,500 (Confederate money) had accumulated in the treasury.
The executive board were authorized to employ missionaries, and have a care
for evangelical work among the soldiers.
[1865.] Met with Anococo Church, Sabine Parish, October 14,
1865. The introductory was preached by Elder I. N. McAlister. N. H. Bray was
re-elected Moderator, and M. McAlpin, Clerk. Nineteen churches were
represented, reporting 123 baptisms and 864 members. Providence (Rapides) is
reported as dissolved ; also New Hope { Sabine), Shiloh (Calcasien), and
Comrade (Rapides) were received.
The committee on obituaries note the death of Elder Henry
Simmons, from which I glean the following facts : " Bro. Simmons was born
March 8, 1805, and died March 20, 1865. He was converted in 1826, and joined
Salem Baptist Church in 1827, and was baptized by Elder James Cone. He was
licensed to preach by Bogue Chitto Church, December 25,
1837; was ordained by Jesse Crawford, Zachariah Reeves,
Willis McGee and Wm. Fortenburg." Such is the brief and indefinite record.
Where he was born does not appear, but as the preachers mentioned belonged
to that part of Mississippi adjoining Livingston Parish, it is probable that
he was from that part of Mississippi.
The ordained ministers were : N. H. Bray, Anococo ; I. N.
McAlister, Many; Samuel Harper, Sugar Town ; M. Scarborough, Natchitoches ;
Y. I. Prewett, Anococo. Prewett and McAlister labored in the Confederate
army while stationed at Alexandria, under the appointment of the executive
board of the association.
[1866.] Met with Good Hope Church, Sabine Parish, October 17,
1866. The introductory was preached by Y. I. Prewett. Elder N. H. Bray was
again chosen Moderator, and T. Koonce, Clerk. Twenty-one churches, 63
baptisms and 880 members were reported. Friendship and Pleasant Grove were
not represented. Ebenezer, Macedonia and Smyrna are reported dissolved, and
Antioch excluded. Calcasieu Church, Rapides Parish, 12 members; Bethsaida,
Rapides, 34 members; Palestine, Rapides, 19 members, and Mt. Zion, Calcasien
Parish, 11 members, were received into membership.
The following queries came up for consideration :
" 1. What shall be done with church members who attend and
participate in what are commonly called play [card playing] and dancing
parties'? Answer. We recommend that all those Baptists who participate in
these worldly amusements, should be excluded if they do not desist after
being duly admonished.
" Question. What course should the churches pursue in regard
to our colored members? Answer. We would recommend the churches to arrange
their rules of decorum so as to keep the government of the churches in the
hands of the white members, and treat the colored members as they have
hitherto done, until the churches in their wisdom deem it
proper to, devise some other plan."
It will certainly strike every intelligent reader at this
date that such an action was wholly unnecessary, and a violation of the
Baptist theory of church government ; but it may be urged as an apology for
these brethren that the colored people of this section of the State were
under very bad influences, and the white brethren had reason to anticipate
trouble in
the church from this source.
The names of B. J. Ford, A. Wright, E. Duggan, J. E. Melton
and J. H. Cunningham are added to the list of ordained ministers.
[1867.] Met with Little Flock Church, Sabine Parish, October
19, 1867. The introductory was preached by Elder E. Duggan. Elder N". H.
Bray was re- elected Moderator, and M. H. Stanley, Clerk. Twenty churches
report 23 baptisms and 801 members. Five churches were not represented.
Beulah, Sabine County, Texas, and Castor Church, Rapides Parish, were
received.
A number of queries were answered, but only the following
deserves attention:
" Has a deacon the right, according to the Scriptures, to
administer the ordinances of the church, viz: baptism and the Lord's Supper.
Ans. He has not, and the church which allowed it, together with the deacon
who may practice it, are both in disorder."
In consequence of this decision the delegate of Palestine
Church offered an apology for the church for having permitted her deacon to
administer the Lord's Supper.
I think many intelligent brethren will question the
correctness of this decision. These ordinances belong to the church, and she
may select her own agents to perform these functions. The ordination of a
minister is only the public recognition of the church's authority. It will
be recollected that the first church in New Orleans authorized J. C.
Carpenter, a layman, to baptize her converts during the war, and I have
never heard the validity of these baptisms questioned, because done by the
authority of the church.
[ 1868.] Met with Central Church, Sabine Parish, October 17,
1868. The introductory was preached by Elder IT. H. Bray, who was afterwards
elected Moderator, with M. H. Stanley, Clerk. Twenty-two churches report 164
baptisms, with 1,028 members^
Five churches were not represented. Two new churches were
received, viz: Union, Natchitoches Parish, 17 members; Kessatchie,
Natchitoches Parish, 21 members.
Friendship, Shiloh, Palestine and Mt. Zion were dismissed for
the purpose of forming Calcasieu Association. A number of important queries
were answered. But little else beyond the usual routine was transacted. The
reports show an unusual prosperity of the churches and a large increase of
members.
[ 1869.] Met with Anococo Church, Sabine Parish, October 16,
1869. The introductory was preached by Elder J. H. Cunningham. N. H. Bray
was continued as Moderator, and M. H. Stanley, Clerk. Twenty churches report
64 baptisms and 905 members, with six churches not represented. The
following churches were received, viz: Beulah, 15 members; Smyrna, 12
members, both in Sabine Parish, and Elam, Rapides Parish, 10 members. Elder
M. Scarborough was employed to labor as a missionary within the bounds of
the association. From these minutes it appears that N. H. Bray had prepared
a
history of the association, and steps were taken looking to
its publication. I have seen the MS. of Brother Gray . It consisted chiefly
in a transcript of the file of the minutes of the association. It was never
printed. I obtained it from Rev. W. M. Reese, Hemphill, Texas, to whom I
returned it.
The following preamble and resolutions offered by Elder E.
Duggan, were adopted :
" Whereas, Certain men calling themselves Christian
ministers, or who are commonly known as Campbellites, are going through some
parts of the association and drawing some of our members into the belief
that there is no material difference in their doctrines and those of the
Missionary Baptists, thereby creating confusion.
" Resolved, That this association recommend all our churches
and ministers to refuse to recognize them or their followers as Baptists,
and cannot be Baptists, since they deny essential truths of the Bible, and
consider they are regenerated in the act of baptism in water of any who say:
'I believe that Jesus the Nazarene is the Messiah,' and that they are
otherwise unsound in the faith."
In answer to the query : " How often ought a church to
commune?" Ans. "As the Scriptures are silent on this subject, we recommend
that they commune quarterly."
"Should a church neglect to commune because they have no
deacon ? " Ans. " They should not. If they cannot obtain a deacon from a
sister church, their pastor should administer this ordinance."
The report on the state of the churches shows that a serious
difficulty existed between the Anococo and New Hope churches.
About five hundred dollars were pledge to put a missionary in
the field.
[ 1870.] Met with Toro, Sabine Parish, October 15, 1870. The
introductory was preached by Elder B. Duggan. N. H. Bray was re-elected
Moderator, and M. H. Stanley, Clerk. Twenty-three churches report l02
baptisms and 889 members. Comrade (Calcasieu), Bethesda and Clamantine were
not represented, and Mt. Pleasant and Pisgah, Beulah
(Texas), were reported dissolved. Prewett's Chapel, Sabine
Parish, 30 members, and Harmony, Natchitoches Parish, 17 members, were
admitted. The churches were supplied as follows : Zion Hill, Pleasant Hill,
Little Flock and Good Hope, by I. N. McAlister ; Many, Toro, Anococo and
Castor, by N. H. Bray ; Bethel, Union and Sardis, by M. Scarborough; Cedron,
Middle Creek and Central, by E. Duggan ; Mt. Carmel, Kissatchie and
Prewett's Chapel, by Z. Corley ; Elam, Smyrna and Walnut Hill, by J. Belton,
and Harmony, by J. H, Cunningham. Besides these were Y. I. Prewett and G-.
W. Stringer (ordained), and G. W. Whitfield, who preached occasionally.
Elder M. Scarborough
labored under appointment as missionary, 263 days, preached
231 sermons, 150 exhortations, received by experience and baptism, 65 ;
received by experience, not baptized, 4; received by letter and restoration,
46; Sabbath-schools organized and in progress, 5 ; miles traveled, 2,438 ;
families visited, 542 ; prayers Offered, 400." The association determined to
pursue the same plan of operation during the ensuing year, and Elder N. H.
Bray was appointed to solicit means for the support of the missionaries. The
churches generally were reported to be in a prosperous condition. Two
churches had been organized during the year, and a third re-organized.
The following queries received attention :
"1. Is it in keeping with Baptist usage and the word of God
for church members to attend dancing parties? Answer. We answer
unhesitatingly, No. They are worldly amusements and we are commanded to
abstain from evil and the appearance of evil.
" 2. What course should a church pursue toward an applicant,
who presents experience and demands baptism after having once been baptized
into the Baptist church? Answer. We think great care should be used to
ascertain the grounds upon which the second baptism is demanded, for on this
the action must depend. If the applicant was baptized
into a Baptist church, we suppose it was done by a properly
authorized administrator, and the act so far as the form is concerned must
be legal. Unless there was some defect in the faith of the subject, not made
manifest at the time and afterwards coming to the light, we think the church
should not baptize the applicant.
"3. Would a member do right to object to the admission of a
negro into the church on account of the moral, social and political status,
now sought to be forced upon the negro by a certain political party. Answer.
There is no authority in God's word for refusing admission on any such
grounds. We think it best that the negroes have churches of their own under
the supervision of white ministers.
" 4. How often should a church forgive a member for drinking
or other public offenses? Answer. "We think the second well-developed case
of drunkenness a sufficient cause for exclusion, and that for other offenses
of a public nature in which there might be extenuating circumstances we
think the church should be ruled by the evidence shown of
the penitence of the offender.
" 5. What course should a church pursue with an applicant for
baptism, who dates his experience back six months, who, two years before
that time, had married a woman who had left her husband, and he has not been
heard of during that time and does not know whether he is dead or alive.
Answer. We advise the church to baptize the applicant.
"6, Is it right for a member of a Baptist church to take the
benefit of the bankrupt law for the purpose of avoiding the payment of his
just debts, and if not what should be done with such a member. Answer. It is
not right, and should a member be guilty of such
an act the church to which he belongs should deal with him."
A circular letter on Church Sovereignty, prepared by Elder N.
H. Bray, was adopted as the sentiment of the body. The doctrine of the essay
is that each church is sovereign and independent in subjection to the law of
Christ, accountable to God alone for its acts, and not to any pope, bishop,
priest or other body of human invention on earth. But as each
church is equally sovereign and independent, one church is
not bound by the acts of another contrary to the law of Christ. A number of
these sovereign churches may unite for their common good, and to co-operate
in the work of evangelization. But the
association is not a court of appeals, nor has any authority
over a church ; but by mutual consent of all parties may act as a council in
cases of trouble. If, however, any church belonging to the association
departs from the faith or becomes disorderly, the association may withdraw
fellowship by refusing to associate with her.
[1876.] Met with Central Church, Natchitoches Parish, October
14th, 1876. The introductory was preached by Elder M. Scarborough, who was
afterward elected Moderator, with D. W. Self as Clerk. Forty-two baptisms,
seventy received by letter, and
a total membership of 808 were reported. Shady Grove, DeSoto
Parish; New Hope, Natchitoches, and Allen, Natchitoches, were received. The
churches were supplied as follows: G. W. Stringer, Zion Hill; J. H. Paddy,
Pleasant Hill and Good Hope ; A. Murry, Bethel; M. Scarborough, Toro, Shady
Grove, New Hope and Allen; N. C. Southwell, Little Flock; E. Duggan, Middle
Creek, Central, Mt. Carmel and Antioch; B. F. Brown, Sardis; J. T.
Wilkinson, Harmony; A. J. Weldon, Prewett's Chapel. Many, Cedron, Beulah,
and Kissatchie without preaching, and Z. Corley and C. Hardin without
churches.
The association had no missionary in its employ, but Elders
George Tucker and J. H. Peddy and H. M. Branson, missionaries of the State
Convention, paid the churches occasional visits.
[1877.] Met with Pleasant Hill Church, Sabine Parish, October
21st, 1877. The introductory was preached by Elder B. F. Brown. Mr.
Scarborough was re-elected Moderator, and D. W. Self, Clerk. Seventeen
churches were represented, reporting 36
baptisms, 50 received by letter, and a total membership of
863. Three churches were not represented. The churches generally were
reported to be in a good condition, and Shady Grove, Sardis, New Hope and
Allen had all enjoyed precious revivals. The following query was considered
:
" When a church excludes one of her deacons and restores him
to fellowship again, there being nothing said about his deaconship, is he
restored to his office of deacon? Answer. No ; not without some action of
the church restoring him to the office of deacon.''
[1880.] Met with New Hope, Vernon Parish, Oct. 15, 1880. The
introductory was preached by Elder Daniel Slay, who was afterward elected
Moderator, with D. W. Self as Clerk. The statistics of twenty-four churches
showed 88 baptisms, 65 admitted by letter, and a total membership of 1,007.
The churches were supplied with preaching as follows : Daniel Slay supplied
Antioch, Little Flock, Mt. Carmel, Zion Hill and Ford; M. Scarborough,
Bethel, Harmony and Friendship ; A. J. Peddy, Beulah; B. Duggan,
Central and Cedron ; J. Sorrels, Good Hope; W. J. Atwood,
Kissatchie and Middle Creek; A. J. Watson, Prewett's Chapel; G. W. Harrell,
Sardis, Spring Ridge and Union; C. McRimmon, Shady Grove; B. F. Brown,
Wallace. New Hope appears to be without a supply. Besides these ministers
there were also Z. Corley, G. W. Stringer and Calvin Hardin, who preached
occasionally. A. J. Peddy, J. Sorrels, W. J. Atwood and A. J. Weldon, lived
in Texas.
The association recognized and approved the work of the State
Convention in the following resolution :
“Resolved, That we hail with pleasure the present plan of
missionary work of the State Convention, which is already meeting with good
success, and that we hereby pledge the board our hearty sympathy and
co-operation, and that Elder G. W. Hartsfield, the present evangelist and
financial agent of the board, who is present with us, be cordially invited
to
present the claims of the board on Sunday, at 11 A. M."
The following queries were considered and answered:
" 1. Is it right for Baptist ministers to preach the Gospel
on funeral occasions ? Answer. It is right for ministers to preach the
Gospel on funeral occasions, but not right to depart from the Gospel on any
occasion.
" 2. Is foot-washing a Christian duty, to be performed in
church capacity ? Answer. We believe foot-washing to be a Christian duty,
but not a church ordinance; to be performed as often as it suits the
feelings, or convenience of the brethren.
"3. How often should a church commune? Ans. As often as they
deem proper."
An excellent sermon on temperance, by Elder G. W. Harrell,
appears in the minutes.