M. C\^ f ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY 3 1833 02548 6876 Gc 977 » 2 Ev:L4m 1S59 E V a n g e 1 i c a 1 L. li. t. h e r a n Syr) o d of NiDrthern Indiana, P r o c; 5? e d i f "i g s o f t: hi e . n n conv. . „ Evan nLuth .Synod n ,. . Digitized by tine Internet Arcliive in 2010 witli funding from Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center I http://www.arGhive.org/details/proGeedingsofann1859evan MTT^TTTES FIFTH ANNUAL CONVENTION EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN SIN NORTHERN JNDI AN A, IIKLU li\ THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN CICERO, INDIANA, SEPTEMBER 22-25, A. D. 1859. WITH AN APPENDIX, CONTAINING THE PAROCHIAL REPORT, AND PLEDGES FOR BENEVOLENT PURPOSES. "FRATERNITAS.'^ INDIANAPOLIS: ELDER & HARKNESS, PRINTERS. 1859. 7?'7p^/-5' Allen County Public Library 900 Webster Street ;°^'^,^ON 46801.2270 Wnn c ^ 78 yi I N LT T K S OF THE FIFTH ANNUAL CONVENTION EVANGELICAL LUTilEUAN SI NORTHERN INDIANA. . 1S98611 FIRST SESSION. Thursday, 0 o'clock A. M., SepLemler 22, 1859. The Brethren unitedly sang a hymn, and were led in prayer by the President, Rev. D. Smith. The Secretary, Rev. R. F. Delo, by order of the President, then called the roll and noted the absentees as follows . LIST OF MEMBERS. Ordained Ministers. Residence. Rev. D. Smith, Logansport, Indiana. Rev. H. Wells, Columbia City, Indiana. Rev. F. Templix, * North Manchester, Indiana. Rev. J. Wolff, Coesse, Indiana. Rev. J. Gather, * Cromwell, Indiana. Rev. W. Waltmax, Spencerville, Indiana. Rev. R. F. Delo, Albion, Indiana. Rev. a. H. Scherer, Arcadia, Indiana. Rev. S. p. Snyder, Camden, Indiana. Rev. p. S. Nellis, North Manchester, Indiana. Rev. J. G. Biddle,* LaGrange Centre, Indiana. Rev. C. Caskey, * Spencerville, DeKalb co., Indiana. Rev. B. F. Hills, York Centre, Indiana. Rev. J. Miller,* Columbia City, Indiana. * Absent. Licensed Ministers. Rev. J. M. Smith, Rev. Charles Jones, Rev. Valentine Exline, Rev. F. Biddle, Rev. G. AV. Wilson, Rev. J. B. Cromer, Rev. a. J. Cromer, Rev. J. N. Barnett. Residence. Anoka, Indiana. Moorosville, Indiana. Van Wert, Ohio. Korristown, Indiana. Columbia City, Indiana. LAY delegates. Mr. Charles Smith, Mr. James Worden, Mr. J. I. KiTZEN, Ml{. G. BiTTINGER, Mr. J. I. Bruner, Mr. J. S. Ulrick, Mr. M. Plank, Mr. B. Keiji, Mr. John Helwig, Mr. M. Snyder, Mr. David Reitzel, Mr. W. a. Calvert. PRESIDENT'S REPORT. Beloved Brethren : — The Loi-d lias mercifully spared us through the labor and toil of another Synodical year, and now we are met, once more to exchansje salutations, and transact such business as shall advance the Re- deemer's kingdom on earth. During the year which has so swiftly glided away, we have had many happy and delightful seasons, as well as many painful and distressing trials, which are calculated to awaken sorrowful reflections in our memories. But we have great reason for thankfulness, notwithstanding the cold hand of death has invaded some of our families, it has pleased God to s]iare our ministerial ranks unbroken. The pleasure of the Lord has graciously rested upon our Zion, for he is supjilying the waste and destitute places within our Synodical bounds with faitliful ministers, and greatly blessing their labors witli the outpouring of his Spirit. The great work of God's Spirit is going forward in our midst; Congre- gations and Sabbath Schools have been organized, family altars established. Churches built, and in many places the Lord has greatly revived his peo- ple, and sinners have been converted to God. We can truly say, the cloud of the Covenant of the Lord moved on- ward, and thanks be to God, the Church followed and extended her bor- ders far into the wilderness. In view of the multiplied blessings of our Heavenly Father, so bounti- fully bestowed upon us, let us render thanksgivings and praise unto him, and say, '* how great is thy goodness, which thou hast Avrought for them that trust in thee." In accordance with our usual custom, and the requirement of the Con- stitution, I will now submit to this Body a report of all my official acts du- ring the past year. PASTORAL CHANGES. Immediately after the close of our Synod last fall, I extended a certifi- cate of honorable dismission (in accordance with an act of the Ministeri- um), to Rev. George Walker, with a view of uniting with the Wittenberg Synod, of Ohio. Dec. 1, 1858, I received a letter from Rev. C. Jones, a licentiate of this Svnod, informing me that he had accepted a call from the Mooresvillc Charge. — that he found it in a very scattered condition, but few members left— hoped, however, to be able to give a more favorable report here- after. Dec. 14, 1858, I received a letter from Brother Gather, stating that he had received and accepted a call from the Union Charge, and requested an application to be made to the Home Missionary Society for aid. In answer to which, I referred him to the action of Synod relative to said Charge, and advised first an amicable adjustment of said congregational aflairs. April 28, 1859, I received a letter of Rev. P. S. Nellis, stating that he had received and accepted a call from the North Manchester Charge, in Wabash county, and intended to procure his dismission from the Alleghany Synofl, with a view of uniting with this Synod. 'June IG, 1859, I received a letter from the Rev. F. Biddle, a licentiate of this Synod, from which I learned that he had located in Van Wert county, Ohio, and was preaching to eight small congregations, at a very small salary ; but with encouraging prospects of usefulness. He also re- quested advice in reference to certain difliculties In one of his congrega- tions, which was given in due time. MISCELLANEOUS. Nov. 27, 1858, Rev. J. G. Biddle gave me a full statement of the difli- culties existing in the Union congregation, relative to which he asked and received proper advice. Dec. 20, 1858, a communication was received from tliis same Brother, requesting an application to be made to the Home Missionary Society for aid, which was accordingly done. On the 29th of April, 1859, I received a communication from the Rev. J. M. Ditzler, of Womelsdorf, Berks county, Pennsylvania, in which he in- formed me that he had a desire to come west, and wished to know if there were any good openings in the bounds of our Synod, where there was more German than English preaching required. His letter was answered and a suitable field recommended to his attention. On the 5th of May, 1859, Rev. S. P. Snyder, of the Camden Charge, reported said Charge to be in a very flourishing condition — that they were engaged in the erection of two new houses of worship, this summer. He also spoke of the disposition which our Synod made of his certificate of dismission from the '• Synod of northern Illinois," as unintelligible to him, and being unacquainted with our customs, &c., desired to know what more he umst do to become a member of our Synod. The matter being properly explained. Brother Snyder wrote again on the 27th of May, and requested to be received into our Synodical connection, and having fully comj)lied with the resolution of Synod, on page 14 of our last Minutes, I answered his letter, and cordially received him as a member of this Body. July 1, 1859, Rev. D. Sparks, of Rumley, Ohio, wrote, requesting me to make appointments for him In the Plymouth charge, with a view of lo- cating in said charge. Ilis request was granted, and the appointments made. 6 July 15. Rev. C. Jones reports very encourajiing success in his field of labor. He has added 29 members, and is building a church at a cost of about 1,000 dollars. He also wished to be advised in reference to his charge uniting with our synod, which advice was accordingly communi- cated. On the same day I also received a letter from Rev. P. S. Nellis, en- closing his honorable dismission tVom the President of the Allegheny Sy- nod, with a request to be received into our Sj'nod. His letter was ac- knowledged, and his request granted. On the 29th of July, 1859, our esteemed brother, A. H. Scherer, reports that amidst great sacrifices and self-denials, the Lord is still blessing his la- liors. We rejoice with iiim in liis success, but sincerely sympathise Avith him in his destitution for want of an adequate support. August 15, 1859, I received a letter from Rev. B. F. Hills, from wliich I learn, with great satistliction, that he has labored with encouraging suc- c;'S3 during this year. He reports several new organizations, and large ac- cessions to the Church. September 2, 1859, I received a letter from brother H. "Wells, in which he rejjorts very encouraging from part of his charge, and that while he has sutTered much by removals of some of his best members, the Loi'd has still greatly blessed his labors, by adding many to the Church of such as, we trust, shall finally be saved. COXSECRATIOXS. 1. On the 3d of October, 1858, the •' Salem Evangelical Lutheran Cliurcli," in Springfield tov/nship, Allen county, Indiana, was solemnly con- secrated to the service of Almighty God. This Church is in Rev. Wm. Waltman's charge. 2. The '• Rehoboth," Evangelical Lutlieran Cliurch, in Noble county Lidiana. in the charge of Rev. R. F. Delo, was dedicated to God on the lOtii of June, 1859. 3. The newly erected Lutheran Church at Peeksburg, under the Pas- toi'al care of Rev. C. Jones, was dedicated to God ou the 7th of August, 1859. 4. Ou the ah of September, 1859, St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Cinirch, in Carrol county, Indiana, in brother Snyder's charge, was dedi- cated to the service of God. ORGANIZATIONS. On the 29th of November, 1858, the President oraanizcd a congrega- tion in Logansport, Cass county, Indiana, with eighteen members, wliich now numbers upwards of forty. Other congregations have been organized, but have not been officially reported. SUGGESTIONS. 1. The President would recommend that a committee be appointed to revise and amend the Preamble and Constitution of this Synod, and re- port such amendments as they may deem necessary at our next annual meeting. 2. That in accordance with Article 6, section 1, of our constitution, a Prudential Committee, consisting of three ordained ministers, be appoint- ed, who shall attend to such duties as the President shall assign them in the interim of" 8}nod. 3. The President would also recommend that this Synod and ministerium be more ri^id in future in requiring a higher grade of moral, religious, aud intellectual (jualification as a pre-requisito to the ministerial office, inasmuch as the time has come wlien the Church and the Avorld require a well edu- cated, pious and dovoted ministry. 4. It is also recommended that a 1)y-law be i)assed investing the Presi- dent M'ith full power to license proper candidates for the ministry during the interims of Synod. 5. That this Synod, in view of the paucity of ministers, and the hopeless expectation of securing them from our eastern institutions, should make use of some untried means to raise up and (juality men at home for the ministry, to fill up the great moral and spiritual distitution within the limits of our state. I will now close my report, and in retiring from office, I return thanks to the brctln-eu for the confidence rejiosed in me, and their kind forbearance and assistance during my term of office. "Now the God of peace that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in }0u that which is well pleasing in his sirrht, throuuh Jesus Christ, to Avhom be glory forever and ever. Amen." ' Ileb. 13:"20. 21. D. SMITH. The President's report was now received and referred to a committee, and Synod proceeded to elect its officers for the next year, which resulted as follows: Rev. D. Smith, of Loganspovt, President. Rev. H. Wells, of Columbia City, Secretary, and Rev. W. Waltmax, of Spencerville, Treasurer. Rev. F. F. Friedgen, of Rochester, Indiana, was received as an advisory member. Rev. W. G. Ilarter, delegate from the Kentucky Synod, was received and invited to participate in the deliberations of this body. Rev. J. C. Medsker, of the LI. E. Church, was introduced and cordially received as an advisory member of Synod. The minutes of the proceedings of the last convention of this bod}- were referred to the brethren Delo, Scherer, and Ulrick, to examine aud re- port the imfinished business. The documents and papers designed for Synod were called for, and prepared lor distribution among the appropriate committees, which were now appointed. COMMITTEES. No. 1 — Brothers Wolfi", Scherer, and Plank. No. 2 — Brothers Scherer, Waltman, and C. Smith. No. 3 — Brothers Delo, S. P. Snyder, and Keim. 8 No. 4 — Brothers Jones, Exline, and Kitzen. No. 5— Brothers Hills, Nellis, and M. Snyder. No. 6— Brothers J. M. Smith, F. Biddle, and Calvert. No. 7 — Brothers Harter, "Worden, and Helwig. No. 8 — Brothers Waltnian, Bittinger, and Bruner. No. 9— Brothers Hills, Plank, and Reitzel. No. 10 — Brothers S. P. Snyder, Keim, and Reitzel. No. 1 1 — Brothers Delo and Nellis. No. 12 — Brothers Waltman and Scherer. No. 13— Brothers Wolff and S. P. Snyder. No. 14 — Brothers Nellis, Worden, and Ulriek. No. 15 — Brothers Harter and Hills. No. 1 6 — Brothers Delo, Seherer, and Friedgen. SPECIAL COMMITTEES. Brethren Wolff, Delo, and Scherer, on applications for license to preach tlie gospel. Brethren Wolff, Delo, and Waltman, on catechism. Candidates for licensure now presented their apphcations and papers, which were given to the appropriate committees. On motion, Synod adjourned till 2 o'clock, P. M. Prayer by Rev. R. F. Delo. SECOND SESSION. Thursday, 2 o'clock, P. M. Synod met pursuant to adjournment, and after prayer by Rev. J. WoHf, proceeded to transact business, as follows : The minutes of the morning session Avere read and approved. Committee No. 8 presented the following report, which was received and adopted : Report of Committee No. 8. Committee No. 8 beg leave to report as follows : The documents placed in their hands are the minutes of the sixtv-third session of the Evangelical Lutheran INIinisterum of the State of New York. and adjacent states and counties, held at the German Lutheran Church of St. Matthews, Walker street. In the city of New York, from September 25 to 29, 1858. Its officers are : Rev. H. N. PoHLMAN^, President. Rev. Geo. Neff, Secretary. Rev. Ephraim Deyoe, Treasurer. Ordained Ministers 55 Licentiates 4 Communicants 11,016 BENEVOLENNT CONTRIBUTIONS. Foreign Missions $524 76 Domestic Missions , 252 82 Beneficiary Education 123 29 Widows' Fund 90 38 Your committee find nothing further claiming the attention of this body, but earnestly pray that the blessings of the great head of the Church may accompany all their labors of love, and that fraternal feeling may be per- petuated among us. Respectfully submitted, W. WALTMAN, GEORGE BITTINGER, J. J. BRUNER. Report of Committee No. 14. Committee No. 14 reported the following, which was received and adopted : Committee No. 14 would report that the document entrusted to them, is a letter of the Rev. Pliilip Locker, of New Corydon, Jay county, Indiana. This Brother, who is now a member of the Miami Synod, being within the bounds of the Synod of Northern Indiana, expresses his regret of his ina- bility to attend the present meeting of Synod, but promises if possible, to attend the next annual convention of our Synod. Your committee regret his inability to attend this Synodical Convention, and recommend to this Brother to connect himself, so soon as practicable, with the Synod of Northern Indiana ; within whose bounds his present Charge is located. Respectfully submitted, P. S. NELLIS, J. S. ULRICK, JAMES WORDEN. Report of Special Committee. The following report was made by the Committee on Unfinished Busi- ness: Your Committee, appointed to report on the Minutes of last Synod,, would respectfully direct attention to the following items : 1. Action of Synod, respecting a bequest to the Lutheran Church in Carroll county, Indiana. Minutes of Synod, page 7. 2. Delegates to General Synod, and District Synods. Ibid, pages 16,, and 1 7. 10 3. A resolution j-equesting Rev. H. Wells to labor as Traveling Mission- ary. JJnd, page 17. 4. Pledges for Missionary and Educational purposes. Ihkl, page 22. Respectfully submitted. R. F. DELO, A. H. SCHERER, J. S. ULRICK. This report was adopted, and disposed of in the following manner : 1. The whole subject concerning the bequest referred to in tlie report, was committed to the care of the Logansport Church, of which Rev. D. Smith is the Pastor, and the original committee, of which Rev. S. P. Sny- der is chairman, are to procure a copy of the Avill, and all the necessai'j' papers on the subject, and forward them to the Rev. D. Smith. 2. Tlie Delegates to the Genei-al Synod presented their repoit, which was received and adopted. Report of the Delegates to the General Synod. Your Delegates attended the Nineteenth Convention of the Geneial Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, which assembled in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and which Convention continued from the 19th to the 26th of May, 1<S59, wlien it adjourned to meet in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on the third Thursday of May, 1861. The Convention was the largest ever held by that great Body, and the discussions and deliberations weie ex- ceedingly interesting. The different opinions held by the distinguished men of the Church were discussed with characteristic ability, fearless inde- pendence and Christian forbearance. It is very pleasant and prolitable to see Brethren thus convened from every part of our great country, engaged in united devotions and conference, laboring together to extend the Re- deemer's Kingdom, and promote the best interests of the Church of the glorious Reformation of the 16th century. Your Synod may well rejoice that it is her happy privilege to be a component part of that distinguished Fraternity. May Heaven sanctify and extend the influence of the Gen- eral Synod, and pour the refresliing showers of His grace upon eveiy Dis- trict Synod and congregation in the wide-spread bounds of our Lutheran Zion. As the published proceedings of the last Convention of said Synod are already circulated among our people, your delegates deem it unnecessary to report further, and herewith express their gratitude to your lionorable Body for appointing them to the desii-able position of representing your Synod in that Convention. HUGH WELLS, D. SMITH, J. PEPPLE. S. CORNELL. The names of the Delegates to Sister Synods and other Ecclesiastical Bodies were called, and satisfactory responses made ; said delegates having attended to their duties, except in a few cases, where proper excuses were given. 3. On motion, the subjects of IMissions and Education were referred to the appropriate times for action thereon. 11 B/EPORT OF Committee No. 3. Committee No. 3 reported as follows, which report was received and adopted : Your Committee report that the documents submitted to them are — 1st. A h>tter from Rev. J. Cather, in which Bro. C. states that severe illness in his family prevented him from meeting with us. Also, a request that Synod excuse him for non-attendance. Your Committee would oifer the following: Resolved, That Synod regrets the necessary absence of this dear Brother —sincerely sympathizes with him and his afflicted family, and that he be excused for non-attendance. 2d. Bro. Cather's parochial report ; your Committee recommend that said report be read at the proper time. 3d. The proceedings of the Thirteenth Annual Convention of the Synod of Illinois, from which we learn that this Synod is actively engaged in the Master's cause. President — Rev. S. L. Haskey. Secretary— Rev. C. Kuhl. Ti-easurer — Rev. G. Graw. No. of Ministers 29 Respectfully submitted. R. F. DELO, S. P. SNYDER, B. KEIM. Report of Committee No. 4. Committee No. 4 presented their report, which was received and adopt- ed. Committee No. 4 respectfully report that the document placed in their hands, are the Minutes of the Seventeenth Annual Convention of the Evan- gelical Lutheran Synod of East Pennsylvania, convened in the St. Matliew's Church, Bloomsburg, Pa., Sept. 30 to Oct. 5, 1858. Officers are — President— Rev. E. W, Hutter. Secretary — Rev. C. J. Ehrehart. Treasurer — Rev. R. A. Fink. No. of IMinisters Ordained 39 Licentiates (J Your Conmiittee find nothing In these Minutes requiring special atten- tion from this Body. Respectfully submitted. C. JONES, V. EXLINE, J. AV. KITZEN. Report of Committee No. 1. Committee No. 1 reported on the President's report as follows : The Committee No. 1, on the President's report, beg leave to report 12 that they have carefully examined said report, and desire to rejoice in the evidences of" God's favor bestowed upon us and our churches during the past year. Also, they highly approve of the suggestions in said report, and that said committee be appointed. Respectfully submitted, &c. J. WOLFF, MOSES PLANK, A. H. SCHEREK. The report of this committee was received and adopted, except that part of it which refers to the President's suggestions. These suggestions Avere taken up one by one, and freely and thoroughly discussed, after which they were all approved, except the one concerning the revising of the constitution of Synod, which suggestion, on motion, was laid on the table. The Brethren Delo, Waltman, and Wolff were elected the prudential committee. On motion. Synod adjourned till to-morrow at 9 o'clock A. M. Prayer by Rev. W. G. Ilarter. THIRD SESSION. Friday, 9 o'clock A. M. Prayer by Mr. B. Keim. The Minutes of the preceding Session were read and approved. Report ok Committee No. 10. Committee No. 10 presented the following report, which was received and adopted : Committee No. 10 respectfully report that the documents placed in its hands are: 1st. The Minutes of the Sixth Annual Convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Kentucky, held at Grandview, Spencer County, Indiana, April 29, 1859. The present officers are — Rev. P. Glenn, President. Rev. W. G. Harter, Recording Secretary. Rev. J. G. Harris, Treasurer. It is composed of eight ordained IMinisters, and one Licentiate, who have under their Pastoral care seventeen congregations, and eight hundred and twenty-two Communicants. Rev. W. G. Harter was elected delegate to this body, who has appeared in our midst, and has been cordially received and invited to participate with us in our present deliberations. Your com- 13 mittee find notliing special in these Minutes claiming the action of this Synod, but would recommend a continuation of the present fraternal feel- ings between us as Synods, by the appointment of a delegate from this body to attend their next annual convention. 2d. Is the first catalogue of the Evangelical Lutheran JMissionary Insti- tute, in Selinsgrove, Penn., of 1858-59. From this catalogue we learn that the present Faculty of this Institution of learning consists of Rev. B. Kuntz, D. D., LL. D. ; Rev. H. Ziegler, M. C. ; and Rev. S. Domer, M. A., of the Tlieological Department ; and Messrs. T. Weaver, M. A. ; P. R. Wagen- seller, M. C, M. D. ; Wm. Ncetllng, B. C, C. E. ; and C. C. Bombaugh, M. A., M. D., of the Collegiate Department. The whole number of students under instruction during the year past was 133, of which number 26 were in the Tiieological Department. The whole internal regulation of this in- stitution is in the highest sense moral and religious and well adapted under its efficient managers to accomplisli the high and glorious ends for which it was originated and founded. Your committee greatly rejoice in the es- tablishment of such an institution in our Zion, and thank God for the un- paralleled prosperity which it lias enjoyed during its short existence. They are fully persuaded that by the blessing of God this school of the Prophets will prove one of the great and effectual means of supplying our scattered and destitute people with a faithful and well qualified Ministry. May the Great Head of the church preside over this promising institution, and make it a blessing to the world ; and the streams which shall issue therefrom, make glad the City of our God. Your Committee, in view of the paucity of ]\Iinisters in our bounds, would suggest to this Synod the proj)riety of taking into consideration the estab- lishment of a similar institution in our midst, in which pious men, irrespec- tive of age or family ties, may becpme qualified for entering the Gospel Ministry, and thereby supply our people with pious and Godly Pastors. Respectfully submitted. S. P. SNYDER, B. KIEM, DAVID REITZEL. Upon the subject of educating men for the Ministry, there was a very- interesting discussion, and intense feeling. The following resolution was adopted : Resolved, That Wartburg Seminary be the place to establish a Missiona- ry Institute, and that a committee of five be appointed to mature a plan of operation upon the subject, and report to this body at its next annual con- vention. Brethren Wells, Snyder, Delo, M. Plank, and John Helwig were ap- pointed said committee. Rev. C. Caskey having arrived, and stated his reasons for not having been in the convention at an earlier hour, was excused. Report of Publishing Committee. The report of the Publishing Committee was received and adopted : Your Committee, who was appointed to superintend the publication of six hundred copies of the written proceedings of your last convention, has performed that duty. 14 Messrs. Elder & Harkness, of Indianapolis, published the said Minutes, for which I paid them forty-five dollars, as my vouchers show $45 00 Lost a per cent, on the Funds 29 Paid express on Minutes 50 Postage on Minutes 50 Postage on letters 12 S46 41 Received of Treasurer 41 08 Which leaves a balance in favor of your Publishing Committee ot. . $4 73 H. WELLS. This report was adopted, and the Treasurer authorized to pay the bal- ance above named ; and, also, to pay the President one dollar for certificates of ordination. Report of Committep: No. 6. Committee No. 6 reported the following, which was received and adopt- ed. Committee No. 6 would re:-pectfully report that the documents placed in their hands are: 1st. The report of the Fifteenth Annual Convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Miami. Rev. F. W. Conrad, President. Rev. J. Greiger, Secretary. Rev. W. 11. Harrison, Treasurer. No. of Ordained Ministers 22 No. of Licentiates 7 In all 29 No. 2 are the Minutes of the Twenty-Ninth Convention of the Evangel- ical Lutheran Synod of Virginia. Rev. H. J. Richardson, President. W. M. Rusmiselle, Secretary. T. Keller, Treasurer. No. of Ordained Ministers 22 No. of Licentiates 6 In all 28 No. 3 are the proceedings of the Thirty-Fourth Annual Convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of West Pennsylvania, held in York, York County, Penn. Rev. A. H. Lochman, President. J. Evans, Secretary. P. Anstaedt, Treasurer. No. of Ministers 40 We find nothing in these documents demanding special attention from this body. Respectfully submitted. JAMES M. SMITH, F. BIDDLE, W^ILLIAIM A. CALVERT. On motion. Synod adjourned to meet at 2 o'clock P. M. Prayer by Rev. B. F. Hills. 15 FOURTH SESSION. Friday, 2 o'clock P. M. Prayer by Hev. V. Exliue. The minutes of tlic preceding session -were read and adopted. Report of Com:\iittee No. 4. Committee No. 4 presented the following report, Avhich was received and adopted : Your Committee, Ko. 4, beg leave to report upon the Minutes of the German Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Pennsylvania, the East Synod of Ohio, and the AlU'ghany Synod. 1. The Synod of Pennsylvania held Its session in St. Paul's Church, du- ring Trinity week, June 7-11, A. D. 1857. Rev. C. F. Welden, President. J. T. Voglebach, Secretary. C. W. Sehaetfer, D. D., Treasurer. This is a very large body, numbering over eighty ministers, and being engaged in Home and Foreign Missions — the Eilucation and Church Ex- tension cause, have done much to establish the Redeemer's Kingdom in distant heathen lands, as well as in this country. 2. The East Synod of Ohio convened In Navarre, Stark county, Ohio, October 7th, 1858. It numbers twenty-five Ordained Ministers, and eight Licentiates. Its officers are — Rev. W. A. G. Emerson, President. J. B. Baltzlv, Cor. Secretary. T. Hill, Rec. Secretary. S. Seachrist, Treasurer. These Brethren are also engaged in Domestic and Foreign Missions, and beneficiary education. Unfortunately, they as well as other Synods, have to mourn over disap- pointment In some who have been educated by the charity of the Church. Synods and Theological Faculties, therefore, cannot be too guarded In re- ceiving untried men upon the benevolence of the Church, and in the lan- guage of tlielr Executive Committee, we say, " This should teach us to be wise In ihe clioice of applicants for beneficiary aid." This Synod lends Its support to the African Mission Institute, under the superintendance of Rev. M. Officer, an enterprise well deserving the Christian sympatliy and cordial aid and support of all our Synods and Churches. 3. The Minutes of the Alleghany Synod, which held its last session in Bedford, Bedford county, Pennsylvania, October 14-1 8th, 1858, show that tliese Brethren are likewise alive to the interests of the Church, and untiring in their calling. The officers of this Synod are — Rev. C. Witmer, President. A. H. Aughe, Secretary. P. Sheeder, Treasurer. Whole No. of Ministers 36 The Lord bless all these Brethren — make them still more abundantly 16 useful in winning souls to Christ, and finally bring tliem with their charges to glory everlasting. Respectfully submitted. WM. G. HARTER, JAS. WORDEN, JOHN HELWIG. Treasurer's Report. The Treasurer presented his report, which was referred to the Brethren Plank and Keim, who were appointed the auditing committee, and reported that the following is correct. AV. AValtman, Treasurer, in account with the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Northern Indiana. Cash paid during session of Synod at Spencerville, 1858. Dr. J. WolflT, former Treasurer $1 38 D. Jmith 5 00 H. Wells 5 00 G. Walker ■ 1 00 W. Wallman 2 50 R. F. Dclo 2 66 A. H. Shearer 5 00 C. Caskev 5 00 J. G. Riddle 3 21 J. WoltF 1 00 J. M. Smith 2 00 B. F. Hills 5 00 V. Exline 2 00 F. F. Friedgen 1 00 Total amount received $41 75 Cr. Paid to H. Wells for printing Minutes $4 1 68 Paid to R. F. Delo, for pens, ink and paper 35 Amount paid out $42 03 Due the Treasurer S 28 treasurer's report of home mission treasury. Cash received during Synod as follows : Dr. By Rev. H. Wells $20 00 By Rev. W. AValtmau 5 00 By Rev. G. Walker 3 00 By Rev. J. Wolff 5 00 By Rev. R. F. Delo 10 00 By Rev. A. H. Shearer 11 00 By Rev. J. G. Biddle 8 00 By Rev. B. F. Hills 10 00 By Rev. C. Caskey 5 00 By Rev. D. Smith 1 00 By Rev. J. M. Smith 2 00 17 Camden Charge Sl5 00 Individual pledges 11 60 Cn-o. Leonard 1 00 J. Ilowser 1 00 F. Biddle 1 oO A. Fletcher 1 00 E. Rudesill 5 00 J. Kratzer 1 00 F. Yoehey 1 00 Collection at Spencervllle S OG Rev. J. M. Smith 2 00 Total amount received Sl27 6G By order of Synod — Cr. Paid to Rev. J. Cather $25 00 Paid to J. G. Biddle 10 00 Paid to J. M. Smith 10 Oo Paid to A. H. Seherer 10 00 Paid to J. Miller 8 00 Paid to n. Wells 50 00 Also, to J. Cather, not by order of Synod 25 00 Amount paid out $138 00 Due the Treasurer $10 34 treasurer's report of b. f. education treasury. Cash received during Synod, at Spencervllle, 1858. By Rev. H. Wells S 5 00 By Rev. W. Waltman 5 00 By Rev. R. F. Delo 5 00 By Rev. G. Walker 2 00 By Rev. A. H. Seherer 1 00 Bv Rev. C. Caskey 100 By Rev. J. M. Smith 1 85 Bv Rev. J. G. Biddle 2 00 By Rev. B. F. Hills 1 25 Jas. Hawser 50 Camden Charge 5 00 Rev. J. Wolff, former Treasurer 33 82 Total amount received $63 42 Paid to the order of the President, Rev. D. Smith $25 00 Balance in the Treasury $38 42 treasurer's report of foreign mission treasury. Cash received during Synod as follows : Dr. By Rev. H. Wells $5 00 By Rev. B. F. Hills 2 25 By Rev. C. Caskev 1 00 o 18 Samuel Keim S 1 00 E. Rudisill 1 00 Total amount received SlO 25 Paid to Treasurer of Foreign Missionary Society SlO 00 Balance in Treasury S 25 Respectfully submitted. W. WALTMAN, Treasurer. Your Committee, appointed to audit the Treasurer's Report, respect- fully submit the following statement : We find all the accounts kept correctly, and the results, also are cor- rect. Res2;)ectfully submitted. M. PLANK, E. KEIM. Report of Committee No. 9. Committee No. 9 reported the following, which was received and adopted : Committee No. 9 would report, that the papers placed in their hands, were the Constitutions of three Evangelical Lutheran Churches, with their applications to be attached to tliis Synod. No. 1 is the Constitution of the Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Green, Green township, Madison county, Indiana. No. 2 is the Constitution and By-Laws of the Horeb Lutheran Church of Wells county, Indiana. No. 3 is tlie Constitution and By-Laws of the St. Paul's Lutheran Church, of Wells county, Indiana. Your Committee have examined these documents, and would recom- mend that their requests be granted them, and they be received. Submitted. B. F. mLLS, DAVID KEITZEL, M. PLANK. In addition to Salem, of Madison, and Horeb and St. Paul's, of Wells county, the following Churches were likewise received, and requested to send their Constitutions for inspection and approval, to Synod, at its next Convention. New York and St. John's, of Steuben county, Indiana. Waterloo, of De Kalb county, Indiana. Pipe Creek and St. Paul's, of Miami county, Indiana. Grove, of Vanwert county, Ohio. Report of Committee No. 5, Committee No. 5 reported as follows, which was adopted : Committee No. 5 would report, that the documents placed In their hands yf^re: 1st. The Proceedings of the Fifth Annual Convention of the 19 Evanjielical Lutheran Synod of Central Pennsylvania, held at IVIifflinburg, Pa., from tlie 12th to the 15th of May, A. D. 1859. Your committee find nothing of importance claiming the attention of Synod. 2(1. Minutes of the Fifth Annual Convention of the Evangelical Lu- theran Synod of Iowa, convened in Iowa City, Iowa, May 11-16, A. D. 1859. Tliose Brethren are laboring amidst self-denial and deprivations in tlie great cause of tlie Redeemer, with a zeal worthy of imitation. From their reports we learn that the work of the Lord is prospering in their hands. 3d. A Journal of the Twenty-second Annual Convention of the Frankean Evangelical Lutheran Synod, convened at Orleans, Four Cor- ners, N. Y. Your committee find only two items in this Journal that should claim the attention of this Synod, viz : An abhorrence of the evils of American slavery, and tlie use of ardent spirits as a beverage. As your committee believe them to be crying sins, and destructive to the advance- ment of the Redeemer's Kingdom, would recommend that we labor and pray for the abolition and destruction of those great evils. Respectfully submitted; B. F. HILLS, P. S. NELLIS, MONROE SNYDER. Tlie name of the President stands recorded in the negative on as much of the above report as relates to American slavery. Parochial reports were made and recorded as usual. See Appendix. Vacant congregations were reported as follows : Spencerville charge. Waterloo, Franklin, and Fairfield Churches, of De Elalb county, In- diana. Concord congregation, of Adams county, Indiana. Plymouth charge, of Marshall county. Horeb and St. Paul's, of TVeU's county, Indiana. Committee No. 16, presented the following report, which was received and adopted. Report of Committek No. 16. Your committee find the documents committed to them, to be — 1. A letter from Rov. G. Walker, delegate elected to represent the Wittenburg Synod at our present Synodical Convention. Your committee regret that brother Walker could not meet with us. Your committee would recommend the reading of said letter, and tliat we heartily reciprocate the kindly feelings of our brethren of the Wittenburg Synod, and that a delegate be appointed to that honorable body. 2. A letter from Rev. J. G. Biddle, stating that sickness prevents his meeting with us, and a request that Synod excuse him. Your committee would move that brother Biddle be excused. 3. His parocliial report. Your committee reconamend that said report be read. Submitted, R. F. DELO, A. H. SCHERER, FRANCIS L. FRIEDGEN. 20 The letter of the delegate was read, and ajtpropnate approving action had upon it. Rev. J. G. Biddle was excused respecting his absence, and his parochial report received and recorded in the usual way. His request concerning the mission fund was also allowed, namely, to retain his collection and re- ceive $G.OO from the treasurer. The report of Committee No. 2, was received and adopted. Report of Committee No. 2, Your committee would report that the document placed in our hands for examination, is a letter from the liev. J. Miller, a member of this Synod, in which we found the parochial report of said brother, together with one dollar to redeem his pledge of last year. Your committee rejoice to hear of the abundant labors, and great success of brother Ivliller, and regret that he could not meet Avith us in Synodical convention at this time. Your committee recommend tliat this letter be read before Synod, and that such action be taken as you mav deem proper. Respectfully submitted, A. H. SCHERER, A^^ WALTJVIAN, CHARLES SMITH, Missionary business was taken u]). The report of the travelling missionary was received and adopted. Traveling Missionary's Report. Your Missionary did not enter upon his mission-work until one-half of the Synodical year had expired. He continued to supply tlie North ]\Ian- chester field with regvilar preaching the first six months of the year, when Rev. P. S. Nellis arrived and took charge of those churches, which released him. and enabled him at once to enter the mission field. Thus, one-half of the latter six months has been devoted to travelling and preaching in the churches of your Synod, except the time employed in Wells county, where the organization of two churches has been effected. Horeb Lutheran Churcli is in township, in said county, about seven miles west of Blutfton, on the north side of the Wabash rivei-. ]\Lxrkle, Huntington county, Indiana, is the post office for this neighborhood. Samuel Ilallich, Jacob Hafiich, AA'illiam Wert, and Samuel Fate, are the Elders and Dea- cons of this Church. This Church asks admission into your Synod, and herewith presents her constitution for your approval. The number of members is twenty-one. St. Paul's Lutheran Chiireh is in ■ township, on the south side of the Wabash river, about the same distance from Bluffton, and four miles from Horeb. John Lesh, John Wolfe, Jacob Farling, and Jonathan Staver compose the Council. This Church contains eighteen members. She has likewise sent her constitution to Synod for inspection, and applies for ad- mission into the same. Your IMissionarj' claims for three months' services $125 00 For traveling expenses 1 7 00 Total 1*^142 00 21 liti has received of Ilorob Church 5?30 00 St. Paul's 17 50 « J. G. BIddlc's chcarge 515 " C. .Tones' charge 15 00 " B. F. Hills' charge 18 39 S8G 04 Your Missionary has also received of your treasurer 60 dollars, leaving a balance of five dollars and ninetv-six cents unpaid. II. WELLS. On motion, the treasurer paid the balance, $5.96, to the missionary. The names of those who pledged money for Home Missions at the last convention were called, and the pledges mostly redeemed. The Executive Committee reported the following: The Executive Committee of the Home Missionary Society would re- spectfully report that they have not transacted any business during the in- terum of Svnod. Respectfully submitted, D. SMITH, R. F. DELO, W. WALTMAN. On motion, adjourned to meet to-mori'ow at 9 o'clock, A. M. I'rayer by Rev. A. II. Scherer. FIFTH SE S SIGN. Satukday, 9 O'clock, A. M. Prayer by Rev. C. Jones. T^'he minutes of the preceding session were read and approved. Resolved, That Rev. II. Wells be requested to labor as an evangelist this }-ear, and that this society will pay him a salary of 500 dollars, and bear his traveling expenses. Also resolved. That he have discretionary power respecting the places for such labor: Provided, however, that for the portion of time he may la- bor in the older and abler charges, he must collect, at least, from such charges, the portion of his salary that will be due him for such labor. The Executive Committee of the Education Society reported that Mr. T. F. Wilds, of Ohio, had received the sum of 25 dollars, to aid him at Wittenberg, Ohio, which was approved. For pledges on Home and Foreign IVIissions, and also for Beneficiary Education, see appendix. The treasurer was authorized to pay Rev. J. Wolff a balance of 1^5.00, due him for beneficiary tuition. 22 N Resolved, That we expend our beneficiary funds to aid those only who study at Wart-burg. Messrs. Wilson, Showater, and Ray, were recommended to the favorable regard of the Executive Committee of the Education Society. Resolved That the treasurer pay the Rev. C. Jones eight dollars of the Home Mission funds. Resolved, That the President be empowered to grant, ad interum, license to preach the gospel to such applicants as shall be recommended by three members of this ministerium, and that this be the by-law on that subject. Resolved, That a division of the Albion charge be recommended, if the brethren of that charge can affect such division satisfactory to themselves. Also, that a union of Columbia, Union Center, Albion, and Rehobeth, be recommended to form a charge, until a better arrangement can bo made. On motion, adjourned till after preaching at 2 o'clock, P. M. Prayer by Rev ^y. G. Harter. SIXTH SESSION. Saturday, 3^ o'clock P. M. Prayer by Rev. B. F. Hills. The Minutes of the mornings session were read and approved. The Committee on Catechisms reported the following, which was adopt- ed: The Committee on " Dr. Schmucker's Catechism for Catechumen's" beg leave to report that the Dr.. as a man and writer, is so well known that his name is the best recommendation we can give of the book. Your commit- tee would rejoice were a copy of the book in every family in our connec- tion, and hope the Synod will so recommend the book that a copy of it will soon be found in every Lutheran familvi Respectfully submitted. J. WOLFF, W. WALTMAN, R. F. DELO. Resolved, That the Treasurer be authorized to pay the Home Mission Funds on hand to Rev. H. Wells in advance, for Mission labor to be per- formed. Resolved, That the Mooresville Charge, Avith the consent of the Olive Branch Synod, be received as a part of this Synod. Resolved, That the thanks of this body be extended to Peru & Indianap- olis "Railroad Company, for its liberality in permiting the members to pass over their road, to and from the convention, on half fare. Also, that the thanks of this synod be expressed to the Pastor and mem- bers of the M. E. Church, in this place, for the use of this Church. 23 Also, to the people of this place and vicinity for their hospitality in en- tertaining the members of Synod and visitors, and that this be done by the President on Sabbath evening. On motion the Treasurer was authorized to pay Rev. J. Wolff S6 50, which was due him on old account. The election of delegates to Sister Synoils was as follows; To the East Ohio Synod, Rev. H. Wi.lls. To the Kentucky Synod, Rev. D. Smith. To the INIiami Synod, Rev. A. H. ScnERp:R. To the Olive Branch Synod, Rev. C. Jones. To the Illinois Synod, Rev. S. P. Snyder. To the Synod of Northern Illinois, Rev. R. F. Delo. To the Synod of Iowa, Rev. J. Wolff. To the Wittenberg Synod, Rev. W. "Waltmax. Resolved, That we have eight hundred copies of our Minutes printed. Election of place for the next convention resulted as follows : North Manchester the place, and Thursday, 9 o'clock, before the 4th Sunday in September, 1860, the time. On motion, adjourned till after preaching, this evening. Prayer by Rev. J. Wolff. SEVENTH SESSION. Saturday Night, 8^ o'clock. Prayer by the Secretary. Minutes of the preceding session were read and approved. Resolved, That the Treasurer be requested to forward the Foreign Mis- sion Funds on hand, to the Treasurer of the Foreign Missionary Society of the General Synod, with instructions to apply said funds to the African ]\Iission. Resolved, That the Executive Committee of the Education Society enter Into a written contract with all beneficiaries to refund to the Society all moneys received by them from said Society, should they ever abandon the Gospel Ministrj'. On motion, adjourned to meet at the time and place appointed for our next annual convention. Prayer hy the President. 24 R E L I G I O U S . Synodical sermon on Wednesday eveninfr by tlie President, Rev. D .Smith. Text, Ps. 126, 6 t. Rev. W. G. Hartor, of Kentucky, preached on Thursday eA^ening on Heb. 7 ell. 25 v. Rev. S. P, Snyder, of Camden, preached on Friday evening, on Mark, 11 ch. 22 V. Rev. W. Waltman preached at 2 o'clock, P. M., on Eph. 3.19, after which the President read the preparatory service in reference to the Lord's Supper. Rev. P. S. NeUis preached on Saturday evening, on Luke, 14 ; 18, 19. Rev. W. G. Harter preached on Sabbath, at 10 o'clock, A. M., on 2 Cor. 10, 4, after which the members of Synod and scores of Christians of dif- ferent denominations surrounded tlie Lord's table, and enjoyed a precious communion with the great Head of the Church, and sweet fellowship with each other. The ceremony of Licensure was then attended to. In which three brethren were licensed to preach the gospel, and administer the sac- raments. Also a liberal contribution was made by the congregation to the cause of Home Missions and other benevolent purposes. Rev. J. Wolff preached In the Cluirch at 3 o'clock, P. M., on Ezkl. 33, 11, and the President in the German language, in the school house, at the same hour, on Isa. 3, 10. The Secretary preached on Sunday evening on Heb. 13. 14. Six per- sons joined the Cicero Church, S47.82 was raised In subscriptions and cash for Home Missions, which, added to those of Saturday, makes about $140, for Home IVIissIons, besides liberal donations to Beneficiary Education, For- eign Missions, and Synodical Treasury. The religious services were truly refreshing, and largely attended. 25 THE imiSTERIUM. FIRST SESSION. Friday E vexing. Prayer by the Kev. P. S. NelHs. After hearing the reports of the several committees, and many appro- priate remarks respecting them, it Tvas Resolved, That the licenses of the Kev. gentlemen, C. Jones, F. Biddle, V. Exiine, and J. M. Smith, be renewed for one year. It was also Resolved, That the brethren, G. W. Wilson, J. B. Cromer, and A. J. Cromer, be licensed on Sabbath next to preach the gospel one year, and that a similar license by granted and conferred upon brother J. N. Barnett, at Logansport, by the President, as soon as convenient for the parties to meet there. On motion, adjourned. A O *-^>Qf->'1 1 Prayer by the Secretary. — ''" "^' "^ SECOND SESSION. Saturday Night, 9 o'clock. Prayer by Eev. R. F. Delo. The minutes of the preceding session were read and approved. Adjourned to meet at the time and jalace of the next Synodical conven- tion. 26 •spofqo 113001 joj qsu3 •uoijTJDnpa; JOJ qsB3 •suois ■sij\[ nSi9.io^ JOJ qscQ suojssri\[ oraojj .loj qstiQ •pouig JOJ qs^o •sSuijeopj; .t3abj;<j •SJTJ^oqog •s.iaqDBOx •siooqog qijBqqtJg •sjTi'BDraTinnnoQ •paAonia^ •sq^tjad •p3}T3oraninniooxg[ •.lo^pi iq p9:t;itapY •saoi;T;iu.igno3 •pazi^dug; s^ubjuj •snoTj'B:}g •suoijTJija.iSuoQ in o in o CI —I CO r-Hr-iTjiinm(>j5^ covot^cieo (N-^CO-^COrlrt -COfM-^WCOCC C^ r^ rt i-H CI CO Tfi ■* CO f-l CO -* «D «5 Ol l-H (N OJ C^ i-l I-H i-H <M r-i O O OJ r-i 05 C) CN t~0<N05COClr-C>»0(N(M c] «D in in CO 1— I (M CO ■<* CO in CO in CO F=i CO rt • (M 27 APPENDIX B. Pledges to he paid at the next Convention. NAMES. ^\ W Rov. D. Smith, Rev. H.Wells... Rev. F. Tem])lin, Rev. J. Wolff,... Rev. J. Gather, Rev. W. Waltman Rev. B. F. Delo, Rev. A. II. Scherer, Rev. J. G. Biddle, Rev. C. Caskey, Rev. J. Miller, Rev. J. M. Smith Rev. B. F. Hills Rev. S. P. Snyder, Rev. Voluntine, Rev. P. S. Nellis, Rev. F. Biddle, Rev. C. Jones, Rev. II. G. Harter, * Rev. Joseph Cramer, Isaac Kratzer, by Rev. B. Hills, J. Ulriek, ]\I. Brown CoUinps, M. D., I^-Irs. Collinps, Rev. J. B. Cromer, * D. Reitzel, J. Worden, * J. B. Cottintjliam, W. Ileck,..^.... Peter Case, W. Sowerwine, * Paid. 28 APPENDIX B Peter Glaser S 25 George Leonard 1 00 M. Piank 1 00 J. Law 25 David Garber 50 A. Gardner 25 George Ingerman 50 PliilipBuher 50 H. Leonard* 25 A. E. Teal 50 Miles Hooper 50 Joseph Baugher* 25 Charlotte Kepner* i 25 C. Kepner* ! 25 Mrs. Garver* j 50 Mary Knour 25 Sophia M 25 Mrs. Sourwine* I 25 MaryR [ 1 00 E. Knap 50 Mrs. Brenner i 25 Amanda L 1 00 Mary Ream 1 00 Jane Ream 1 00 L. Smail 50 L. O. Clifford 1 00 John Sidenburgh 50 Wm. Clifford 1 00 E.W.Lake 1 00 P. M. Mushrush 50 B. R.Miller 1 00 J. Kitzmiller : 50 Cash Paid [ 30 * Paid. P. Knop J. G S. S.Wright H. Hildebraud J. H. Quear 1 M. Wan 1 J. M. ClitFord ' 1 W. Atkins 1 R. A. Garber 3 Cash Paid ....I 2 M.L. Smail 1 J. S. Quere ! M. Swope* Joseph Knouse ' J. M. Glifencot I 1 Martha Clifford I M. Levenburgh ' J. Plat Mary Plat J. Metzer M. J. W.* Hannah AVright E.C.J Anna Case | Rebecca Lake ; 1 Mrs. Dewey ' 1 Cash Paid : Jacob Newschafer 2 Wm. Smith 1 T. Knapp 1 Wm. Mahaffee Cash paid 1 25 50 25 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 50 30 50 00 50 50 50 25 25 25 25 25 12 00 00 10 00 00 00 50 50