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yet this Church now contains 404 members, six chapels, 350 Sabbathscholars, and thirty-five teachers. Are not many of the Churches in the villages, having numerous Church members, congregations, Sabbathschools, &c., &c.? Thence the importance of missionary meetings being regularly held in every branch of the Church, that "the brethren, every man according to his several ability," may come up to the help of the Lord, the help of the Lord against the mighty." This view of the subject under consideration is self-evident and important. The efforts here advocate are adapted to elicit the resources of these Churches, and stimulate them like Deborah, to become "mothers in Israel." It may be further remarked

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Valuable characters are often raised up in villages and obscure circumstances, and not unfrequently are brought forth to much usefulness. Were not our Taylors, our Deacons, our Smiths, the natives of villages, and there trained for eminent service in the cause of God? Both Wesley and Kilham were natives of the little town or village of Epworth, in Lincolnshire. Was not Carey born in a village, "unknown to fortune and to fame," Paulers-Pury, in Northmptonshire? Was not Sir Isaac Newton born, not in a city, or town, or village, but the little hamlet of Woolsthorpe, in the parish of Colesterworth, in Lincolnshire? Sturm, in his "Reflections," has some very pertinent observations upon the subject of our consideration. "It is a matter of small importance to us where we may live, provided we find genuine happiness. There is no place on earth, however poor and despicable, but may have better and more happy inhabitants than many who dwell in the largest and most celebrated cities. For an individual that place is preferable to all others where he can get and do most good. For a number of people that place is best where they can find the greatest number of wise and pious men. Every nation declines in proportion as virtue and religion lose their influence on the minds of the inhabitants. Bethlehem, notwithstanding its smallness, was a most venerable place; seeing that there so many pious people had had their abode, and that acts of peculiar piety had often been performed in it. At Bethlehem the humble Jesse sojourned, the happy father of so many sons, the youngest of whom rose from the pastoral life to the throne of Israel, In Bethlehem, Zerubbabel, the prince, was born. In this city the Son of God appeared, who by his birth laid the foundation of that salvation which, as Redeemer, he was to purchase by his death for the whole world. Thus, in places which, from their smallness, are entitled to little notice, men sometimes spring who become the benefactors of the human race. Often an inconsiderable village has given birth to a man, who, by his wisdom, uprightness, and heroism, has been a blessing to whole kingdoms."

Who can tell what may be the influence of the details of a missionary meeting upon a village audience? Who would have looked for Israel's most popular king in the village of Bethlehem, and in the youngest son, brought from the fold? May all the Israel of God, from "Dan to Beersheba," be stirred up to promote the cause of Christ, both at home and abroad. May our country be still favoured to take the lead in the evangelization of the word.

"O blesesed land!

Where Clarkson and where Wilberforce were born!

Thee grateful Afric worships, and thy name

Poor crouching Asia dreads; but she shall learn

To love it too!

AN EARLY FRIEND OF THE MISSION.

CORRESPONDENCE.

THE LOCATION OF THE
ACADEMY.

To the Editor of the General Baptist Repository. DEAR SIR,-Since I returned from the Association at Loughboro', I have ruminated a good deal on the proceedings of the brethren, relative to our Academical Institution, and have determined to send you a few of thoughts which have occured to my own mind.

ion, suggests the location of the Institu. tion where the Association fixed it. I say fixed it, for now it is determined that the Tutor shall not be the pastor of a Church, the time is come when "the Tutor will be moved to the Institution, and not the Institution to the Tutor:" and we shall be spared the necessity of having, at different times, discussions about the locality, and conflicting arguments on that subject, It was determined that the Institution whether from the same or different persons. should be conducted in the Midland Dis- A remark also made by an esteemed ministrict. When the simple fact is stated, that ter from Lincolnshire, indicated a correct in the three Midland Counties, are found judgment, viz., that none of the Midland nearly half our Churches, and about half towns presented so important collateral our number; and that all the other districts, advantages of a philosophical kind as the viz: Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Warwick- town of Leicester, arising from the existshire, and London, together, only make up existence of a liberally conducted proprieabout an equal number of Churches, and tary school. members, I think it will be apparent, that if it be any advantage to the Churches or the Institution, to have it located where there are the largest numbers of our people; the decision of the brethren was correct. And then the preference given to Leicester over Nottingham, though it was secured by a small majority only, seems to me still to be quite in character with the principle above alluded to. It may not be generally known that in Leicester itself, there are more General Baptist Churches, than in any other town in the kingdom, and as many members residing in the town as there are either in Nottingham, or even London. Then in the county of Leicester there are upwards of twenty General Baptist Churches, and, speaking in round numbers,* four thousand members. In Nottinghamshire there are ten Churches, and about two thousand members: in Derbyshire, there are twelve Churches, and about eighteen hundred members. If we take the whole number

If premises in Leicester suitable for the conducting of the Academy, in process of time, can be purchased or erected, it will be well. I trust that this is a matter that will commend itself to the attention and liberality of the wealthier members of the Churches, and that some of us may live to see such a building, at once the property, and the source of the prosperity of, the General Baptist Connexion. Before I lay down my pen, Mr. Editor, I will add that the almost perfect agreement which the Association manifested in their choice of the present Tutor, leads me to hope, that the whole of our Churches will unite hand and heart in promoting the well-being of this Institution.

A WELLWISHER TO THE ACADEMY.

LORD'S SUPPER AT THE ASSO-
CIATION.

together "with one accord in one place;" triune Deity; they commingled their cries they united in singing the praises of the and supplications at the footstool of the

To the Editor of the General Baptist Repository. of our members at sixteen thousand, it will ministers and representstives of the majority Dear Sir,-During the past week the follow, that while half the whole number reside in the Midland Counties, one fourth of our Churches, scattered through the are found in the county of Leicester alone. length and breadth of the land, assembled If then, numbers give a claim, the decision is correct. Then, Leicester itself is central for the county; it is also central for the Midland counties; Nottingham, Derby, Birmingham, being within a manageable distance. If also Churches in other districts may desire to enjoy occasional help from the Institution, Leicester is, as near as may be, a central point. While there- to preach before the Association were breakfore we are strongest in the central parts of the kingdom, a due regard to the relative claims of the remoter parts of the Connex.

⚫These numbers do not profess exactness : they are near enough for our purpose. VOL. 5.-N.S.

brethren leading the devotions of the ser. mercy-seat; one after another of the vices, by "calling on the name of the Lord," and whilst the ministers appointed

ing the bread of life, we believe most present were inclined to say with the Psalmist,

66

How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!"

The hearts too of God's people were cheered by beholding each others face in 2 H

the flesh; and the pleasing character of the reports from most of our Churches, led all who heard them, to "thank God and take courage."

This annual season of religious festivity is however past and gone, and our friends have returned to their respective localities, we trust, "in the fulness of the blessing of Gospel of Christ." And as it appears very desirable that we should on these occasions, endeavour, as far as possible, to cultivate and promote a spirit of union and christian affection amongst our brethren of "like precious faith," would it not be cal culated to further this object, if we were some time during the Association, to assemble together around the table of our once crucified, but now highly exalted Re. deemer, for the purpose of partaking of the emblems of his body which was broken for us, and of his blood which was shed for the remission of sins? Other sections of the universal Church adopt this plan; and though we would not advocate such a course simply on that account, yet, as they find it to be a time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord, we think that if we were in our collective capacity, thus to "show the Lord's death till he come," the service would be calculated to exercise a beneficial influence on our minds, it would more closely cement our hearts to each other and all to Christ; it would lead us to feel more of that oneness which ought to exist amongst the followers of the Saviour; and perhaps not a few would be led to renew their Covenant engagements with Jehovah; and if objects so great and important as these are likely to be accomplished, we think it is worth making the experiment. Hoping therefore that our friends, previous to another annual gathering, will give the subject that consideration to which it is justly entitled, and praying that the year upon which we have now entered may be distinguished by increasing prosperity in all our Churches, I remain,

Yours respectfully,

T. W. M.

Loughboro' [We cheerfully insert the suggestion of our correspondent. We are not certain that he recollects the fact that ten years ago this question occupied the attention of the Association. The remarks made by the late Mr. Jarrom on that occasion, were inserted in the G. B. R. for 1833, page 361. To this article we beg leave respectfully to refer him, or any other correspondent who may be disposed to take the affirmative of the question. They certainly deserve serious consideration. There were also some

remarks on the other side written by the late Mr. Rogers, inserted in the G. B. R. for 1834, p. 61, which should not be overlooked.-ED]

CHAPEL DEBTS.

To the Editor of the General Baptist Repository. THE following is the plan, for the reduction of chapel debts, in the Yorkshire dis. trict; as revised by the Committee, appointed for that purpose; and as adopted by the Conference held at Halifax, on Whit-Tuesday, June 9th 1843.

1. That every Church belonging to this Conference make one public collection in the year, for the reduction of chapel debts in this district, and that the year commence this Whitsuntide.

2. That the monies thus collected be transmitted to the Treasurer chosen by this Conference, before or at the close of the year: Whitsuntide. That brethren, L. Ing. ham of Moss Hall, be the Treasurer, and W. Crabtree of Lineholme, Secretary for the current year.

3. That these sums be annually divided among the Churches, that have debts on their chapels; in proportion to the amount of their debts.

4. That every Church receiving assistance from this fund, be obliged, besides making one annual public collection for it, (the fund) to raise the same amount among themselves, as that which they receive. Suppose a Church receive £5, that it reduce its debt £10, before it receive any more help from this fund.

5. That the money thus collected go exclusively to the reduction of our chapel debts.

6. That these public collections be annually made by all our Churches composing this Conference, so long as there remains any debt, on any of our chapels in this district.

7. That all our Churches that may hereafter contract debts, by building, or enlarging their chapels, do it with the consent and approbation of this Conference, that they may be entitled to receive aid from this fund. In behalf of the Conference, I remain, dear sir, Yours truly,

QUERY.

W. CRABTREE.

Would you or any of your kind correspondents give us a plain scriptural explanation of Matt. xviii. 15, 16, 17 verses, "Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee," &c.

A SURVEY OF THE HOLY LAND; its Geography, History, and Destiny. Designed to elucidate the Imagery and Ori. ental allusions of Scripture, and demon. strate the fulfilment of prophecy. BY J. T. BANNISTER. With an Introduction by the REV. W. MARSH, D. D., of Leamington. Part I. Simpkin & Marshall. THIS work on the Holy Land, by Mr. Bannister, is intended to be completed in abont ten or twelve monthly, shilling parts, and will be embellished with maps and pic. torial illustration. Judging from the first part now before us, which we have read with unqualified pleasure, we regard this work as forming a valuable addition to our biblical literature. Its author has wisely availed himself of the best authorities, both ancient and modern, in the compilation of these pages, and has presented an amount of correct information in so condensed and pleasing a form, as to bring the substance of large and costly works within the reach of the ordinary reader. The first part contains Dr, Marsh's introduction, from which it appears, that the Doctor favours the idea of the personal reign of Christ in Judea. The first chapter of the work is devoted to the historical geography of Canaan, its names, boundries, divisions under Joshua, provincial divisions by the Romans, and modern di. vision under the Turks. The second chapter relates to the general aspect of the country climate - hail- rain- dews winds-thunder storms.

It contains also a map of Judea, and a representation of the river Jordan and its scenery. From a regard to its author, as well as from the intrinsic excellence of the work itself, we do, most cordially, recommend it to our readers. The work may be obtained on the first of every month, by applying to the Booksellers. THE PEOPLE OF CHINA, their History, Court, Religion, Government, Legislation, Institutions, Tribunal, Agriculture, Language, Literature, Manufactures, Arts, Sciences, Manners and Customs; to which is added, A Sketch of Protestant Missions. 18mo. pp. 336. Tract Society. WHAT christian heart indeed does not earnestly desire the diffusion among the Chinese of Divine truth, and, as the result of the gracious operation of the Holy Spirit, of pure and undefiled religion. The vol. ume before us contains much valuable information in reference to a people who form a third part of the population of the globe, and whose circumstances are marked by striking peculiarities. It is illustrated by numerous and accurate wood engravings, and is not only adapted to the young, but also to the general reader.

A VOICE FROM THE VINTAGE, on the

force of example. Addressed to those who think and feel. By the Author of "The Women of England. 12mo., pp. 215. Fisher, Son, and Co., Newgate Street.

THE name of the pious and well meaning authoress of this volume will secure it a favourable reception. The work is adapted to do good. Though we do not regard all the arguments advanced in favour of joining total abstinence societies as being sound, the details of intemperance, and the proofs given of the insidious nature of this vice, are deserving of the calm consideration of all moderate and temperate persons. BLIND CELESTINE OF PATURAGES. TransTM lated from the French. 18mo, pp. 72. Tract Society.

This is a detail of piety in humble life, followed by a peaceful death. Reclaimed from the errors of the church of Rome, Ce. lestine bore an honourable and useful testimony to "the truth as it is in Jesus." It is also gratifying and instructive to know, that the little flock, to which she was as a nursing mother, continues to increase, and to receive a blessing from the Lord. The history of Celestine will be acceptable and useful to many.

THE MORNING STAR. Tract Soc. 18mo
PP. 36.

THIS is a little book for the young, exhibiting the evils that prevailed in our country before the time of the Reformation; and the labours of Wickliff, who has been called its "morning star." It contains also some account of John Huss and Jerome of Prague.

THE

ERRORS OF THE TIMES. THE RISE
AND PROGRESS OF POPERY.
FATHERS. DOWNWARD PATHS.
Society. 12mo., pp. 12 each.
THESE are suitable tracts for the times.

Tract

SONGS AND BALLADS. NOT by the REV.
JOHN M'NEALE, B. A., of Trinity
College, Cambridge. Palmer and Son,
Paternoster Row.

"ANSWER a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit." This is the motto of these counter songs and ballads. It very aptly describes them. WHAT DAVID DID. A reply to the Queen's

Letter; containing reasons for declining to urge upon the parishoners of Hinton Charterhouse a collection in behalf of the Society for promoting the building of Churches; and pointing out to her Majesty's ministers a more excellent way. By the REV. THOS. SPENCER, M. A., Perpetual Curate, &c. John Green, 121, Newgate Street.

THIS two penny pamphlet is well worth the attention of all classes. Mr. Spencer

is a mild, bold, and singular person.
he got into the Church, and how he keeps
in it, we cannot divine.

How of the Ganges. A Letter to the Right Hon. the Earl of Ripon, President of the Board of Control." It appears from recent information, that this murderous practice is still very prevalent in Bengal. It is high time for Britain, in every part of her empire, to throw her ample shield over all that are "drawn unto death, and ready to be slain," by the superstitions of her subjects.

LITERARY INTELLIGENCE. WE understand our friend Mr. Peggs has in the press a pamphlet entitled, "A CRY FROM THE GANGES. The present slate of the exposure of the sick on the banks

OBITUARY.

THOS. GODDARD.-It is always pleas. Gospel which had been the power of God ing to trace the steps of a good man through to his own salvation without advantage to this world of sin and sorrow, and, especially others, but he chiefly confined his labours is it so in the hour death to witness his fi- to his own village, where the Gospel was nal triumph over all his spiritual enemies. preached in his father's house, and afterThe temper and conduct of such a man dis wards in a small chapel, in which, with covers the hallowing influence of the Holy commendable zeal, he superintended and Spirit on his heart, and the changing situa- taught a few Sabbath school children. tions and circumstances in which he is About twelve years before his death Pro. placed, in his progress to the mount of God, vidence directed his steps to Leicester, and point out that ever-watchful Providence he united in fellowship with his brethren at which directs his paths, and his peaceful end Friar Lane. The spirit and conduct of our is an encouragement to all who are travel- brother did not escape the notice of the ling to the same holy hill. Church, and he was soon called to fill the office of a deacon, which he held to the time of his death. How affectionately, but faithfully he discharged its duties is well known to those who lament his removal. In his christian career there was nothing of what is usually deemed extraordinary, except it be his uniform and consistent walk, his amiable and christian spirit. His consistent character did not pass unob. served by the world, and it is but part of the truth to say that he never dishonoured the christian name. In his native place he had left that good name which the wise man declares to be better than ointment. We must turn however to the closing scene, and we shall find in it the words of the Psalmist to be verified, "Mark the perfect man and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace." During his affliction the word of God was his comfort and sup port. When questioned respecting the state of his mind, he replied, I trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation; he is my foundation and my life. After suffering se verely for several weeks, the period arrived for his quitting the clay tabernacle and entering on the inheritance, "incorruptable, undefiled, and which fadeth not away.' The kindness of friends had done all that could be done to prolong a life so valuable, but his work was done, and he sweetly feil asleep in Jesus, July 5th. His funeral sermon was preached by his pastor to a crowded congregation, on Sabbath evening, July 16th, who selected for his text "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord,' &c. SAMUEL WIGG.

Thomas Goddard was born at Hougton on the hill, a village about seven miles from Leicester, in January 1788. The temper of our departed friend in early life was remarkably serious and sedate, so that it may be said of him that "From a child he knew the Holy Scriptures." But it does not appear that he fully gave his heart to the Lord till about the twentieth year of his age, when he was baptized at the Friar Lane chapel, by the late Rev. J. Deacon, whose ministry he was in the habit of at tending, in company with his parents, and a few other christian friends. From the period of his uniting with the Church of Christ, his subsequent piety was constant and uni. form. His goodness was not like the morning cloud or the early dew which passeth away, it rather resembled the shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day; nor was it like the fleeting vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away, but more like the fire in the sanctuary which was kindled by heaven, and being constantly watched and supplied, it afforded a steady light and constant heat, cheering and strengthing to his own mind and attracting the attention and admiration of his christian friends. The Gospel having been introduced by his pastor into the village of Billesdon, about three miles from the place of his residence, our friend at. tended the ministry of the word there, and took a deep and lively interest in the infant cause. About this time, at the request of several friends, he consented to speak in public, and seldom did he make known the

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