96. 
Bethany, September 7th. 1809.                                30th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment; 
and was opened with a sermon by the revd. Francis 
Cummins from Mark 16. 15. 16. 
        Ministers,                       present,                        Elders. 
Francis Cummins,                                                David Allan, 
Edward Pharr, &                                                William Echols, & 
John Hodge                                                        James Nisbet. 
        Consolidated with prayer. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Hodge, Clerk. 
        Ordered That calls, supplications &c. be presented 
        Calls, from the churches of Siloam & Bethany, & addressed 
to the revd. Francis Cummins, and requesting one half of his 
ministerial labours at each, were handed to presbytery: Which 
calls, being presented to Mr. Cummins, were by him taken into 
consideration till the next session. 
        Adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow morning half 
past 9 oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Bethany, September 8th. 1809. 
        Presbytery met agreeably to adjournment. Members present 
 
 
                                                                        97. 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday, and also those of our last stated 
sessions were read. 
        On inquiry, relative to a previous order enjoining on the members 
to report the number of communicants and of baptized persons  
in their respective charges, it appeared that reports have 
been prepared & forwarded to presbytery, from the churches of Hebron 
& Union, by Mr. Newton; from the church of Mendum, by  
Mr. Pharr; from that of Shiloh, by Mr. Hodge; and from the 
Church of Bethany, by the elders thereof. Mr. Montgomery & 
Mr. Thompson, have forwarded no reports. 
        Resolved, That all the members of this presbytery, be prepared 
to report at our next spring sessions, on the above subject, according 
to the forms recommended by the general assembly. 
        It appears that Mr. cummins has addressed a letter to the 
general assembly, as directed at the last session. And also, that 
presbyterial appointments have been generally fulfilled, by the 
members present. Reasons for a partial failure by Mr. Pharr, 
were sustained.  
        Ordered, That supplies be made out. Mr. Cummins is 
 
 
98. 
is directed further to supply statedly, as much as will be convenient 
for him, at Bethany and Siloam in Greenesboro. And 
two sabbaths & two week days, are allotted to each of the 
other members, at discretion.  
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at Shiloh, on the first Thursday 
in April next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                John Hodge, Clk. 
 
 
Shiloh, April 5th. 1810.                                                31st. Session. 
        Two members only of the presbytery of Hopewell, to wit: 
Mr. Newton & Mr. Hodge being present, & unable to form a 
constitutional quorum, it was concluded to proceed to the exercises  
of public worship. And a sermon was delivered by Mr. 
Newton from Matt: 11. 19. No other members having yet appeared, 
it was agreed by those present to meet at this place 
tomorrow morning at 11 oclock. 
Shiloh, April 6th, 1810. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met; and was opened with a 
sermon of the revd. William Montgomery, the former moderator 
being absent, from John 6. 29. Constituted with prayer. 
 
 
                                                                        99. 
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders, 
William Montgomery,                                                James Espey. 
Thomas Newton & 
John Hodge 
        A Letter from the revd. Francis Cummins was received & 
read informing presbytery that he is confined to his house by disease, 
and therefore cannot attend the present session. Direct 
information from the revd. Edward Pharr, also informed presbytery 
of the impracticality of his attendance at the present session. 
These reasons were sustained in favour of both the absent members. 
        Mr. Newton was chosen moderator, & Mr. Hodge, Clerk. 
        Ordered, That calls, supplications &c. be brought forward. 
        Mr. Newton handed to presbytery a request, from a church 
lately organised, to be taken under the care of this presbytery. This 
request was granted; and it was ordered that the said church be 
known by the name of Carmel. 
        The minutes of our last stated sessions were read. 
        The consideration of the calls, from the churches of Siloam & 
Bethany, presented to the revd. Francis Cummins, at our late sessions, 
was necessarily deferred till our next, as none of the parties 
 
 
100. 
concerned were present. 
        Inquiry being made, whether the members present were now 
able to report the number of communicants & baptized persons in 
their respective charges; and it appeared that Mr. Newton and 
Mr. Hodge had complied with the order; Mr. Montgomery was 
still not ready to report. His reason for failure, both now and 
at our last session, as well as for his absence at the last presbytery, 
were sustained. 
        Presbyterial appointments were found to have been fulfilled. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow morning 
at 10 oclock. Concluded by prayer. 
Shiloh, April 7th. 1810. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Ordered, That presbyterial appointments to be made out. One 
sabbath and two week days are appointed to each of the members at 
discretion. 
        Adjourned, to meet at Bethsaida S. Creek, on the 2d. Thursday in September 
next. Concluded with prayer.                                        J. Hodge, Clk. 
 
 
                                                                        101. 
Bethsaida, September 13th. 1810.                                32d. Session. 
        The Presbytery of Hopewell was unable to constitute on this 
day, owing to the inclemency of the weather. But on the day 
Following, viz: September 14th. Presbytery met at the place appointed, 
and was opened with a sermon by the revd. Thomas Newton,  
the last moderator, from Corr: 2. 6. 16. Constituted by prayer. 
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders, 
William Montgomery,                                                John Espie, 
Thomas Newton,                                                Samuel Mackie, 
Edward Pharr, &                                                John Barnhill, & 
John Hodge.                                                        William Hodge. 
        A letter from the revd. Francis Cummins was handed to 
presbytery, stating that he came a week ago into the neighborhood 
of this place with a view of meeting presbytery, then supposing 
it was the time appointed; and regretting that in consequence 
of his misapprehension, he has made such arrangements, in the 
disposition of his clerical duties, as necessarily prevents his attendance, 
at this meeting. These reasons were sustained.  
        Mr. Montgomery was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Hodge, Clerk. 
        Ordered, That calls, supplications &c. be brought forward. 
 
 
102. 
        A request, forwarded to the clerk, by the revd. Francis 
Cummins, was handed to presbytery, from a collection of people 
in Morgan county, that they may be taken under the 
care of this presbytery, and be known by the name of Pergamos.  
This request was granted. 
        A request, was also handed to presbytery by Mr. William 
Hodge, from a congregation lately organised on the waters of 
Broad river, to be taken under the care of presbytery. This 
request was granted, and that the said congregation be known 
by the name of Pisgah. 
        The minutes of our last stated sessions were read. 
        The consideration of the called heretofore presented to the 
revd. Francis Cummins was, for special reasons, deferred till 
our next Spring sessions. 
        It appeared, upon inquiry, that presbyterial appointments 
had been generally fulfilled. Reasons for partial failures were 
sustained.  
        Mr. Montgomery reported the number of communicants 
and baptized persons, in the churches of Bethsaida & Newhope; 
and also, in that of Pisgah, a vacant congregation. 
 
 
                                                                        103. 
        Mr. Pharr having been absent from our last spring sessions, 
now makes the annual report from the church of Mendum, which 
ought then to have been made. 
        Ordered, That all the members of this presbytery, be prepared at 
our next Spring sessions, to make the annual report on the above subject, 
as directed by the general assembly; and thence forward, annually. 
And further, that the members respectively use their endeavors to 
obtain from vacant congregations, not yet reported, the necessary reports,  
in order that they may be presented to presbytery as soon as 
may be. 
        The presbytery taking into view the small number of ministers 
within its bounds; the number of new counties, as well as other 
tracts of country within this state, where multitudes are destitute 
of the word of life, and of the established ordinances of the gospel; 
and the urgent applications made for ministerial aid, from different 
quarters, which is found to be unable to be bestowed. Whereupon, 
        Resolved, That a letter be addressed to the general assembly, 
representing the state of our country, and praying missionary aid. 
And that the revd. Francis Cummins be requested to prepare and 
transmit the same to the next general assembly. 
 
 
104. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place at half past ten 
oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Bethsaida, September 15th, 1810. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members 
present as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Ordered, That supplies be made out. Mr. Cummins 
is appointed one sabbath & as many week days as he may 
find it convenient, at discretion.  Mr. Montgomery is appointed 
a stated supply at Pisgah, till our next sessions; and one 
sabbath and two week days in the new counties South of the 
Oconee. Mr. Newton is appointed one sabbath at Union, and 
One sabbath & two week days at discretion. Mr. Pharr & Mr. 
Hodge are appointed a sabbath & two week days each, discretionally 
South of the Oconee. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place, Bethsaida, on 
the first Thursday in April next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                                John Hodge, Clk. 
Synod of the Carolinas, October 6th, 1810. 
        Thus far examined & approved.                Samuel Stanford, Modr.  
 
 
                                                                        105. 
Bethsaida, April 4th. 1811.                                33d. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met agreeably to adjournment, & 
was opened with a sermon by the revd. William Montgomery, 
the last Moderator, from Rom: 1. 16. Constituted with prayer. 
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders, 
Franics Cummins,                                                William Fergus. 
William Montgomery, 
Thomas Newton, & 
John Hodge. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator & Mr. Montgomery, temporary 
clerk. 
        Ordered, That calls, supplications &c, be brought forward. 
        Presbytery adjourned, till tomorrow morning at 10 oclock. 
        Concluded with prayer. 
Bethsaida, April 5th. 1811. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Pharr being also present, rendered satisfactory reasons 
for his absence yesterday. 
 
 
106. 
        The minutes of yesterday, and also those of our last 
stated sessions were read. 
        The members being called upon, made an annual report of 
their respective charges, agreeably to the form recommended by the 
general assembly, except from Bethany, which was not quite 
complete. 
Ordered, That the stated clerk prepare and transmit, by 
mail, the above mentioned reports, and also a presbyterial report 
to the next session of the general assembly. 
        Mr. Cummins, on inquiry, gave satisfactory reasons, why 
he had not complied with an order of the last sessions, requesting 
him to address a letter to the general assembly. 
        Presbyterial appointments, appear to have been generally fulfilled. 
Reasons for failures, sustained.  
Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place at half past ten 
oclock tomorrow morning. Concluded with prayer. 
Bethsaida, April 6th, 1811. 
        Presbytery met agreeably to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
                                                                        107. 
        Mr. Pharr petitioned for a dismission from the operation 
of a call, which he accepted some years since, from the congregation  
of Currys creek; which, from the diminished & disorganized 
state of that society, was granted.   
        The consideration of the calls from Bethany & Siloam, 
was deferred. 
        Ordered, That presbyterial appointments be made out. Two 
sabbaths and two week days, are appointed to each member at 
discretion.  
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at Siloam, Greenesboro, on the 
first Thursday in September next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                       Wm. Montgomery, temp. clk.  
 
 
Siloam, September 13th. 1811.                        34th. Session. 
        Owing to the inclemency of the weather, the presbytery of 
Hopewell was prevented from constituting yesterday, agreeably to 
adjournment; but on this day it met, and was by request, opened 
with a sermon by the revd. Ezra Fisk, from Psalms 119. 165 
        Present, Francis Cummins, William Montgomery, & John 
Hodge, Ministers; & George Irving, Elder. Constituted with prayer. 
 
 
108. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Montgomery, Clerk. 
        The revd. Messrs. John Brown & Ezra Fisk, being present, & 
invited to sit with us, as corresponding members, accepted the 
invitation.  
        Ordered, That calls, supplications &c. if there be any, be 
brought forward. 
        The minutes of our last stated sessions were read. 
        Adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow at 10 a.m. 
Concluded with prayer. 
Siloam, September 14th. 1811. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Upon inquiry, the stated clerk Mr. Hodge replied, that he 
had transmitted a presbyterial & other reports to the general 
assembly, as directed at the last session.  
        The consideration of the calls, from Siloam & Bethany, was 
still deferred.  
        Presbyterial appointments, are found to have been fulfilled.  
        Mr. Archibald Bouie, a licentiate from the presbytery of  
 
 
                                                                        109. 
Orange, appeared in presbytery, and gave satisfactory evidence of 
his being in regular standing; and applied for permission to 
preach within our bounds, until the next Spring sessions: which 
was granted. And he is, especially, to preach on two sabbaths 
within the late purchase, South of the Oconee.  
        Ordered, That the clerk furnish Mr. Bouie with an attested 
copy of this minute. 
        Ordered, That presbyterial appointments be made out. 
One sabbath and two week days, are appointed to each of the 
members, at discretion; and to be fulfilled previous to our next 
Spring sessions. 
        The presbytery, taking into consideration the widely & thinly 
scattered situation of the church within its bounds, and the deprivation 
of the stated privileges of the gospel, under which, many 
labour; and willing to afford, before the approach of winter, 
the most convenient opportunity for a number to assemble together 
and enjoy the means of grace: Whereupon, 
        Resolved, That this presbytery be adjourned, to meet at 
Bethany, on the last Friday of October next, for the express purpose 
of preaching the word, and administering the ordinances of 
 
 
110. 
        the gospel; and that the members be particularly enjoined 
to attend. Concluded with prayer. 
                                Wm. Montgomery, temp: clk.  
 
 
Athens, February 14. 1812.                        35th. Session. 
        The Presbytery of Hopewell, having, by unforeseen 
circumstances, been prevented from meeting at Bethany, according 
to adjournment, did meet on this day, by a call of 
the Moderator, duly notified to the members; and was opened 
with a sermon by the revd. Francis Cummins, the last Moderator, 
From 1 Pet: 2. 7. Constituted with prayer. 
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders, 
Francis Cummins,                                                William Eules. 
Thomas Newton, & 
Edward Pharr. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Newton, Clerk. 
        The revd. Dr. Brown, a member of Harmony presbytery, being 
present, was invited to sit with us, as a corresponding member; 
which he accepted. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow morning 
 
 
                                                                        111. 
9 oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Athens, February 15th. 1812. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        Ordered, That calls, supplications, &c. if there be any, be 
brought forward.  
        The minutes of yesterday, as also those of our last stated 
sessions were read. 
        Upon inquiry, Messrs. Newton & Pharr rendered satisfactory 
reasons for their absence at the last session. 
        Upon inquiry, the members, for special reasons, were not 
ready to make their annual reports of church members. 
        It appeared that presbyterial appointments were fulfilled. 
        The revd. Francis Cummins, accepted the calls, from the 
congregations of Siloam and Bethany. 
        Ordered, That appointments be made out. One sabbath and 
two week days, are assigned to each member, at discretion. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at Bethsaida, on the last Friday 
in July next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                        Thos. Newton, temp. clk.  
 
 
 
 
112. 
Bethsaida, July 31st. 1812.                        36th. Session. 
        The Presbytery of Hopewell met agreeably to adjournment, 
and was opened with a sermon by the revd. Francis Cummins, 
the last Moderator, from Rom: 8. 3. 4. Constituted with prayer.  
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders. 
Francis Cummins,                                                Thomas Mayes. 
Thomas Newton, & 
Edward Pharr. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator; & Mr. Newton, Clerk.  
        Ordered, That calls, supplications, &c. be presented. 
        The minutes of our last stated stated sessions were read. 
        Adjourned, to meet at this place, tomorrow morning at 
10 oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Bethsaida, August 1st. 1812. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer.  
        Dr. Brown, a member of Harmony presbytery being present, 
was invited & took a seat as a corresponding member. 
        Mr. Huey, Elder appeared & took a seat. 
 
 
                                                                        113. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Upon inquiry, it appeared that the members had fulfilled 
their respective appointments made at the last stated sessions. 
        The members were direction to make their reports of church 
members at the next stated sessions. 
        Appointments were assigned to each member, as at our last. 
        Mr. Archibald Bouie, a licentiate, produced suitable evidence 
of his regular licensure by, and dismission from the Orange presbytery; 
and requested to be taken under the care of this presbytery; which 
was granted. 
        Mr. Bouie was directed to preach three sabbaths at Pergamos, 
and the rest at discretion.  
        The minutes of the present sessions were read.  
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at Bethsalem, on the first 
Thursday of April next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                Thomas Newton, temp. Clk. 
Synod in Sessions at New-Providence, October 12th. 1812. 
        Examined and approved to this page. 
                                        Jas. Hall, Modr. 
 
 
114. 
Bethsalem, April 1st. 1813.                        37th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met agreeably to adjournment, 
and was opened with a sermon by the revd. Francis Cummins, 
the late moderator, from John 13. 13. Constituted with prayer. 
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders. 
Francis Cummins,                                                William Greer, 
Thomas Newton,                                                James Espey, 
Edward Pharr, &                                                John Barnhill, & 
John Hodge.                                                        John Luckie. 
        Mr. Archibald Bouie, a licentiate, absent. 
        Mr. Newton was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Hodge, Clerk. 
        The revd. Dr. Brown, presented to presbytery a regular dismission 
from the presbytery of Harmony, of which he was late a 
member; and applied for admission, and was received as a member 
of this presbytery.  
        It was ordered, That calls, supplications, &c. if any, be presented 
to presbytery. 
        A petition from a settlement of people in Twiggs county, 
praying for supplies, was handed to presbytery.  
         
                                                                        115. 
        The minutes of our last stated sessions were read. 
        It appeared that the appointments last made, have been fulfilled 
by the members present. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow morning  
at ten oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Bethsalem, April 2d. 1813. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above, except Messrs. Greer & Espey. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        On motion, Resolved, That Mr. Hodge be appointed a 
commissioner to the next general assembly; and that the clerk 
be directed to make out his commission. 
        Messrs. Greer & Espey came in & took their seats. 
        Upon inquiry, it appeared that the members present were not 
prepared to report fully the number of church members within their 
respective charges. Whereupon, 
        Resolved, That each member of this presbytery give special 
attention to this subject, and be prepared to report, without fail, 
at our next Spring sessions. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow morning at 
 
 
 
 
116. 
ten oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Bethsalem, April 3d. 1813. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above, except Mr. Pharr. Constituted with prayer. 
        The revd. Nathan S.S.  Beman, late a member of the Cumberland 
associate, and pastor of a congregational church in 
Portland, district of Maine, but at present residing within our 
bounds, made application to become a member of this presbytery; 
and having produced sufficient testimonials of his having 
been regularly licensed and ordained to the gospel ministry; 
of his good moral standing, and regular dismission from his 
pastoral charge: It was unanimously agreed, that Mr. Beman 
be accordingly admitted as a member of this presbytery.  
        Ordered, That supplies be made out. To Mr. Cummins 
is assigned, two sabbaths in succession and the intervening week, 
in Twiggs county: One sabbath, at Madison in Morgan county,  
is assigned to Mr. Beman.  
        Mr. Pharr arrived, & after rendering satisfactory reasons 
to presbytery, for his being tardy, took a seat. 
        Dr. Brown, was directed to spend on sabbath at Jefferson,  
 
 
                                                                        117. 
and one sabbath & two week days at discretion: To each of 
the other members, is assigned two sabbaths and two week 
days at discretion. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at Siloam in Greenesboro, 
on the first Thursday in September next. Concluded with 
prayer. 
                                         
                                                John Hodge, S. Clk. 
 
 
Siloam, Greenesboro, September 2d. 1813. 
        Two ministers only, of the presbytery of Hopewell, to wit: 
Messrs. Cummins & Hodge having met in pursuance of the last 
adjournment; consequently, there was not a presbytery. 
                                                John Hodge, Clk. 
 
 
1st. Session of Synod, November 16th. 1813. 
        Examined and approved thus far. 
                                        J. R. Thompson, 
                                                        Moderator. 
        It appears that the minutes of the next succeeding presbytery held at Mount 
Zion are lost.  
 
 
118. 
Siloam, September 16th. 1814.                        39th. Session. 
        There being not a sufficient number of members present to 
form a quorum, presbytery did not constitute.  
        September 17th. 1814. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met and was constituted with prayer. 
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders. 
John Brown, D. D.                                        John Armor. 
Francis Cummins, & 
Nathan S.S. Beman.                Absent, Mr. Newton, Mr. Pharr & Mr. Hodge. 
        Dr. Brown was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Beman, Clerk. 
        Revd. Francis Cummins laid before presbytery a written request 
to be dismissed from the pastoral charge of Bethany congregation; 
and it appearing that the congregation made no objection. The 
Revd. Francis Cummins was accordingly dismissed; and the congregation 
declared a vacancy, in good standing, within our bounds.  
        Presbytery adjourned to meet at Athens on the last Friday in 
March next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                Nathan S. S. Beman, Clerk. 
 
 
                                                                        119. 
Athens, March 31st. 1815.                        40th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment and 
was opened with a sermon by the Moderator, the revd. Dr. Brown, from 
John 15. 8. Herein is my Father glorified that rye bear much fruit. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders. 
John Brown, D. D. 
Revd. Francis Cummins, 
Edward Pharr, & 
John Hodge.                Absent Revd. Thomas Newton & Nathan S.S. Beman. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Hodge clerk. 
        Ordered, That calls, petitions, &c. if any, be presented. None 
were presented. Concluded with prayer. 
        Adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow morning 9 oclock. 
Athens, April 1st. 1815. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
above, with the addition of Mr. Newton, whose reasons for absence 
yesterday were sustained. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        The revd. Henry Reid, late a member of South Carolina presbytery 
presented a regular dismission from it to this presbytery. He was 
 
 
120. 
accordingly received and took a seat. 
        Mr. Andrew G. Semms, and elder from the presbyterian church 
at Washington, being present, took a seat. 
        The minutes of the last stated session, and of the adjourned  
sessions at Siloam were read. Messrs. Newton, Pharr & Hodge, who 
appear to have absent from the two last mentioned meetings of 
presbytery, viz: that at Mount Zion & the adjourned meeting at 
Siloam, rendered such reasons for their absence and were satisfactory. 
Mr. Eli Smith, a graduate of Dartmouth college, N. Hampshire, 
appeared before presbytery and expressed a desire to be taken under 
its care as a candidate for the gospel ministry. Presbytery then proceeded 
to examine Mr. Smith on experimental religion and such other 
things as appeared necessary in order to their being able to judge as to 
his soundness in the faith. In all which, he gave full satisfaction. 
He also produced satisfactory testimonials of his literary and moral 
character, of his being in full communion with our church, and his 
having been engaged in the Study of Divinity for nearly two years 
last past, under the Revd. Dr. J. P. Wilson of Philadelphia. Presbytery 
was further informed by Dr. Brown, that Mr. Smith since his late 
residence within our bounds, has written several sermons on different 
 
 
                                                                        121. 
portions of scripture. Whereupon Mr. Smith was requested to read 
a sermon, which he did on Heb: 11. 1. and afterwards, at the direction of 
presbytery, he delivered the same in public. It was agreed that these 
exercises be sustained as parts of trial previous to licensure. 
        Presbytery finding Mr. Smiths qualifications for the ministry very 
satisfactory, and his desire to preach the gospel of our common Lord, 
founded on what is believed to be good and proper grounds, and considering 
the destitute state of the church in this part of the world, 
resolved to license Mr. Smith without further delay. And on his answering 
satisfactorily the questions directed to him, as required to be 
put to candidates by the discipline of our church, the following entry 
was made on our minutes, viz: 
        At Athens April 1st. 1815. The presbytery of Hopewell, having 
received sufficient testimonials in favor of Mr. Eli Smith, of his having 
gone through a regular course of literature, of his good moral character 
and of his being in the communion of the church, proceeded to take  
the usual parts of trial for his licensure: And he having given satisfaction 
as to his accomplishments in literature, his experiment acquaintance 
with religion, and his proficiency in Divinity and 
other studies: The presbytery did, and does hereby express its approbation 
 
 
122. 
of all these parts of trial: And he having adopted the confession 
of faith of our church, and satisfactorily answered the questions appointed 
to be put to candidates for licensure. The presbytery does 
hereby license him the said Eli Smith to preach the gospel of 
Christ, as a probationer for the holy ministry within the bounds 
of this presbytery, or wherever he shall be orderly called.  
        Mr. Wilson Hodge, an elder from the church of Pisgah arrived 
and took a seat. 
        The appointments given to the member at our last sessions 
appear upon enquiry to have been fulfilled. 
        Mr. Beman, in a letter addressed to presbytery, and which 
was read, stated that from not having in his possession, the name, 
place of residence, &c. of the revd. William Montgomery, he had failed 
to forward him a letter of dismission from this presbytery, as 
directed at our last. Wherefore it was ordered that this duty devolve 
on the stated clerk, and that the said letter be forwarded 
without unnecessary delay. 
        Mr. Buie, having failed to attend the present sessions, the 
consideration of his application for dismission was deferred until 
our next fall sessions.  
 
 
                                                                        123. 
        Appointments. Two sabbaths, at discretion, were allotted to 
each of the members. Mr. Smith was directed to preach one sabbath 
at Sandy creek, one at Thyatira, one at Pergamos, and one 
at Center. Concluded with prayer. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at New Bethsalem, on the first 
Friday of May next.                        Francis Cummins, Moderator 
                                        John Hodge, Clerk 
 
 
New Bethsalem, May 5th. 1815.                41st. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment and 
was opened with a sermon by the Revd. Francis Cummins, Moderator, 
from 2. Tim: 3. 18. All scripture is given by inspiration of God and 
is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in 
righteousness. Constituted with prayer. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders. 
Revd. Francis Cummins, 
John Brown, D. D. 
Nathan S. S. Beman 
Henry Reid & 
John Hodge.                Messrs. Newton & Pharr, absent. 
124. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Hodge, Clerk 
        Persons having calls, petitions & other papers to lay before presbytery, 
were invited to present them. None were presented. 
        The minutes of the last sessions were read. 
        Mr. Bemans reasons for absence from the last sessions were 
sustained. 
        Adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow at 12 oclock. 
Concluded with prayer. 
New Bethsalem, May 6th. 1816 [*- 02, 1815*] 
        Presbytery met agreeably to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Mr. Andrew G. Semms, an elder, was also present & took a seat. 
Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Mr. Benjamin Gildersleeve, a graduate of Middleberry College, 
Vermont, at present residing within our bounds, made application to 
be taken under the care of this presbytery as a candidate for the 
gospel ministry. Wherefore presbytery proceeded to examined Mr. 
Gildersleeve on experimental religion and the motives which induced 
him to desire the office of a gospel minister; and being fully satisfied 
as to his experimental piety, and believed that his desire to preach 
 
 
                                                                        125. 
was founded on evangelical principles, and also having received the 
evidence of his being in the membership of our church together with 
his literary and moral character, it was agreed that Mr. Gildersleeve 
be received as a candidate for the gospel ministry.  
        Presbytery was further informed by Mr. Beman that Mr. Gildersleeve, 
who resides in his family, had been for some months attending 
to the studies of Divinity, and had written a lecture, which he was 
prepared, if called upon to deliver before the presbytery. 
        It was therefore agreed, that Mr. Gildersleeve should be requested 
to deliver his lecture; which he did accordingly. The subject of which 
being contained in Rom: 3. From the 10th. to the 19th. verses inclusive. 
The lecture was sustained as part of the trial for licensure. 
        Mr. Gildersleeve was then directed to prepare a sermon from 
John 1. 13. to be delivered at our next session; and the first sixteen 
articles of the Confession of Faith, were also given him as subjects of 
examination.  
        Appointments, to remain as at our last. Concluded with 
prayer.                 Presbytery adjourned to meet at Thyatira on the 
first Thursday of September next.                Francis Cummins, Moderator 
                                                John Hodge, Stated Clerk. 
 
 
126. 
Thyatira, September 7th. 1815.                        42d. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment, and 
was opened with a sermon by the Revd. John Brown, D. D. from Heb: 
10. 24 & 25. And let us consider one another to provoke unto love & 
to good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as 
the manner of some is. Constituted with prayer. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders. 
Revd. John Brown, D. D. 
Thomas Newton, & 
Henry Reid.        Absent The Revd. Francis Cummins, Edward Pharr, 
Nathan S. S. Beman & John Hodge. 
        Mr. Newton was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Reid clerk. 
        The minutes of the last session were read. 
        Mr. Newton gave satisfactory reasons for absence from our 
last session. Concluded with prayer. 
        Adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow morning 10 oclock. 
Thyatira, September 8th. 1815. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
 
 
                                                                        127. 
        Mr. Pharr, now present, took a seat and rendered satisfactory 
reasons for delay in attending the present session, as well as 
for absence from the last. 
        Appointments, for supplying vacant congregations, were all 
fulfilled. 
        The General Assembly, at their last session, having recommended 
to the churches, the the evening of the first Monday in every 
month, be set apart by the friends of Zion, as far as shall be convenient 
for prayer to Almighty God for the coming and glorious 
reign of Christ on earth. Therefore, 
        Resolved, That the same be observed by the members of 
this presbytery, and that it be recommended to the churches under 
our care to act in like manner. 
        The recommendation of the General Assembly with respect to 
petitioning congress on the subject of transporting and opening the 
mail on the sabbath was also taken into view by presbytery, but 
the consideration was deferred until tomorrow.  
        The General Assemblys request to pay special attention to the 
religious education of young slaves was likewise taken into consideration 
by the presbytery. [?] Religions of negro children. It was resolved that presbytery pay 
128. 
attention to this important object, and also recommend the churches 
under their care to do the same. 
        The presbytery, in consequence of the frequent violations of the sabbath 
and other open and abounding iniquities which are prevalent in our 
country, resolve to solicit the aid and cooperation of Christian brethren 
of other denominations to put a stop to these evils. It was therefore 
resolved, that a committee to be appointed to prepare a letter to be addressed 
to the next conference of the Methodist church in this state, and  
also to the several associations of the Baptist church, requesting them 
to appoint members, to meet with members, who shall be appointed by 
the presbytery, at some convenient place to devise necessary means of 
accomplishing this object. The place appointed for the general association 
is Athens; and the time of meeting is the Thursday before commencement 
in 1816. The Revd. Messrs. Cummins & Beman are appointed a 
committee to prepare and transmit the said letter to the other religious 
denominations in the state. [*Letter to Conference & the Baptist associations 
[?ruc?ing] the Sabbath.*] 
        Mr. Gildersleeve delivered the sermon assigned to him at our last 
as a part of trial previous to licensure; which, being considered, was 
sustained. 
        The following question was proposed for the consideration of presbytery, 
 
 
                                                                        129. 
viz: Is it right that a member of the presbyterian church should 
permit his children while under his immediate control to attend balls, 
dances and other places of vain and worldly amusement? To this 
question, the presbytery unanimously answered, No. [*Dancing &c. 1815*] 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at this place, tomorrow morning at 
9 oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Thyatira, September 9th. 1815. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Opened by prayer. 
Members present as above. 
        Presbytery proceeded to the examination of Mr. GilderSleeve on the 
Confession of Faith and Theology in general; which examination was 
sustained as part of trial previous to licensure; and after having dignified 
his assent to the engagements prescribed in the book of discipline, 
his licensure was ordered according by, and in the following 
form, to wit: 
At Thyatira, September 9th. 1815. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell having received sufficient testimonials 
in favour of Mr. Benjamin Gildersleeve, he having gone through 
a regular course of literature; of his good moral character; and 
of his being in the communion of the church, proceeded to take the 
 
 
130. 
usual part of trial for his licensure. And he having given satisfaction 
as to his accomplishments in literature, of his experimental 
acquaintance with religion, and as to his proficiency in Divinity 
and other studies; the presbytery did, and hereby do express their 
approbation of all these parts of trial. And he having adopted 
the faith of this church, and satisfactorily answered the questions 
appointed to be put to candidates before licensure, the presbytery 
did and hereby do license the said Benjamin Gildersleeve to preach 
the Gospel of Christ as a probationer for the holy ministry within the 
bounds of the presbytery, or wherever he shall be orderly called. 
                                        Thomas Newton, Modr. 
                                        Henry Reid, Clk. 
        The deferred business of yesterday was resumed. 
        Resolved, That this presbytery comply with the recommendation 
of the General Assembly with respect to the transporting and opening of 
the mail on the sabbath day; also that the stated clerk be directed to 
furnish all the members belonging to this presbytery with a copy of said 
petition.  
        Appointments. Two sabbaths at discretion, for each member. 
Mr. Gildersleeve, one at Center, and one at Pergamos. 
 
 
                                                                        131. 
        Adjourned to meet at the presbyterian church in Washington 
on the first Thursday in April next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                                Thomas Newton, Modr. 
                                                Henry Reid, Clk. 
        This book has been examined & approved up to this page. 
                                        John Brown, Modr. of Synod. 
 
 
Washington, Wilkes county Georgia, April 4th. 1816.        43d. Session. 
        There not being a constitutional number of members present to 
form a quorum, adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow morning. 
Washington, April 5th. 1816. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met agreeably to adjournment, and was 
opened with a sermon by the Revd. Mr. Newton, Moderator, from Numb: 
23. 10. Let me die the death of the righteous and let my last end be 
like his.        Constituted with prayer.  
Ministers                       present                        Elders. 
Francis Cummins,                                                Thomas Terrell, 
John Brown, D. D.                                                Joseph Bryan. 
Thomas Newton, &                                Absent, the Revd. Messrs. Pharr, Hodge 
Nathan S. S. Beman                                        and Reid. 
 
 
132. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator & Mr. Beman, Clerk.  
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet this evening at Mr. Terrells, at 
4 oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
At Mr. Terrells, April 5th. 1816. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
above. Mr. Reid now present, and having given satisfactory reasons 
for absence, took a seat. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of last session were read and amended, and also 
the minutes of this day were read. 
        The Revd. Messrs. Cummins & Beman gave satisfactory reasons for 
absence from our last session. 
        Mr. Ira Ingraham, a graduate of Middleberry College, Vermont, 
now an inhabitant of this state and rector of an academy at Powelton,  
offered himself as a candidate for the ministry of the gospel, & requested 
to be taken under the care of this presbytery. After producing satisfactory 
evidence of his being a member of the church, of having experienced 
a work of grace in his heart, and of his views and motives as to the 
holy ministry, he was received. 
        Appointments, to supply in the vacancies, were all fulfilled. 
        On inquiry, it appears that the committee appointed to address the 
 
 
                                                                        133. 
judicatories of the Methodist and Baptists churches on certain subjects 
referred to in our last minutes, had performed the duty assigned them 
so far as it respects the Baptist church, but were unavoidably prevented 
from communicating their designs and intentions to the conference of the 
Methodist church. In pursuance of the plan previously adopted, the 
Revd. Francis Cummins & the Revd. Dr. Brown are appointed commissioners 
to meet the brethren of other denominations at the time & place, 
and for the purposes described in the minutes referred to above. It was 
ordered that the commissioners address a letter to the presiding Elder 
of the Methodist church in the circuit where the meeting is to be held, 
requesting him to attend the proposed convention, or to appoint some 
one or more persons of his order, to meet and confer with the delegates 
from other churches, on the subjects proposed. 
        A letter was received from Mr. Buie, a licentiate under the 
care of this presbytery, on the subject of difficulties relative to his dismission. 
The consideration of which was deferred. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at the church, tomorrow morning at 
9 oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
Washington, April 6th. 1816. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
 
 
134. 
above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The consideration of Mr. Buies case was resumed. The moderator 
was directed to lay before the presbytery of Fayetteville, within whose 
bounds Mr. Buie now resides, all the material facts and documents in 
our possession relative to his case. And Mr. Buie is hereby dismissed, 
that his case may be entirely under the management, and be subject 
to the cognizance of that presbytery. 
        Mr. Ingraham delivered a sermon of Rom: 5. 1. which was sustained 
as part of trials for licensure. 
        Adjourned, to meet at Mr. Terrells, this evening at 3 oclock. 
Concluded with prayer. 
Mr. Terrells, Saturday 3 oclock. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Present as above. Constituted 
with prayer. The minutes were read. 
        Mr. Ingraham was directed to prepare a sermon from John 15. 23. 
to be delivered at our next. He was also directed to prepare for examination 
on the doctrine contained in the first eight chapters of the Confession 
of Faith. 
        The members were directed to preach in the vacancies, each, two 
sabbaths at discretion. Mr. Gildersleeve was directed to preach one sabbath 
 
 
                                                                                135. 
at Concord, one at Center, and the rest at discretion. 
        The following query by the Revd. Mr. Reid was laid before presbytery, 
and an answer requested, viz: A person living in a neighborhood 
where there is a newly organized church, has a certificate from 
a church to which he formerly belonged testifying that he is a 
member in regular standing, denies the authority of the church 
where he now resides to call him to account should he be guilty 
of any irregularity of conduct. Query: To whom is he answerable, 
and whose business is it to call him to account? 
        Answer. He is answerable to the church where he resides, and 
it is the business of the officers of that church to call him to account, 
and should he refuse to attend wen duly and regularly cited, he 
may be cut off for contumacy.  
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at Washington on Saturday the 9th. 
of November next.         Concluded with prayer. 
                                        Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                        Nathan S. S. Beman, Clk. 
 
 
136. 
Washington, Wilkes County, Georgia, November 9th. 1816.                44th. Session. 
The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment and was 
opened with a sermon by the Revd. Francis Cummins, the Moderator, 
from John 3. 14. 15. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the Wilderness, 
even so must the Son of man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth 
in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 
Ministers,                       present,                        Elders. 
Revd. Francis Cummins,                                        Thomas Terrell & 
Nathan S. S. Beman, &                                        Alexander Thompson. 
Henry Reid.                         Absent John Brown, D. D. Thomas Newton, Edward 
Pharr, and John Hodge.                Constituted with prayer. 
        Adjourned to meet at the house of Mr. Terrell at 4 oclock P.M. 
Concluded with prayer. 
Mr. Terrells, Saturday P.M. November 9th. 1816. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Present as above. Constituted 
with prayer. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, and Mr. Reid Clerk. 
        The stated clerk having failed to bring or transmit the minutes, 
they could not be read. 
        The Revd. Ezra Fisk, a member of the presbytery of Hudson, New York, 
 
 
                                                                                137. 
being present, was invited and took a seat as a corresponding member. 
        Mr. David Root, a graduate of Middleberry College, Vermont, expressed 
his desire to be received as a candidate for the gospel ministry. Having 
produced sufficient testimonials of his literary acquirements, of his good moral 
character, and of his being in the communion of the church, presbytery proceeded 
to examine him on experimental religion, and his views in desiring 
to enter on the sacred office. His examination was sustained, and he was 
received under the care of the presbytery. 
        Adjourned, to meet at this place, on Monday morning 9 oclock. Concluded 
with prayer. 
        Monday, November 11th. 1816.     Presbytery met according to adjournment. 
Members present as above. Constituted by prayer. 
        Mr. Ira Ingraham read a sermon on John 15. 23. which was considered, 
but not sustained. He was examined on the first eight chapters of the 
Confession of Faith, and his examination was sustained. He was directed 
to prepare an Exegesis on this theme, An Christus sit Deus? & a sermon 
on Rom: 9. 16. to be delivered as parts of trial at our next. 
A letter was received from the presbytery of Fayetteville respecting the 
case of Mr. Buie, and questioning the propriety of his being tried for misconduct 
by any other presbytery than the one in the bounds of which his offence 
 
 
138. 
was committed. The subject of which letter was in part investigated. 
Adjourned to meet at this place, tomorrow morning at 9 oclock. Concluded 
with prayer. 
Tuesday morning, November 12th. 1816. Presbytery met according to 
 adjournment. Members present as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The subject of the letter from the presbytery of Fayetteville was resumed & 
considered. Mr. Buie came forward and acknowledged that he had been 
sundry times intoxicated and had behaved imprudently while living in 
the bounds of this presbytery, also that he had been in some measure 
intoxicated sundry times while living within the bounds of the presbytery 
of Fayetteville, since he had left the state of Georgia. Whereupon presbytery 
judged that Mr. Buie should be admonished by the Moderator, and 
suspended from the ministerial office, and the communion of the church, 
until the presbytery of Fayetteville, or some other in whose bounds he might 
be, be satisfied of his penitence and reformation, and should see fit to restore 
him. He was admonished and suspended accordingly. And in this 
standing, dismissed, to put himself under the care of the presbytery of 
Fayetteville in North Carolina. 
        Mr. Orson Douglas, a graduate of Middleberry College, Vermont, 
came forward and expressed a desire to be taken under our care as a 
 
 
                                                                                139. 
candidate for the gospel ministry: And having produced satisfactory testimonial 
of his literary acquirements, his good moral character, and membership 
of the church. He was examined on experimental religion, and 
his views in entering on the gospel ministry. His examination was 
sustained, and he was taken under our care. Mr. Douglas then delivered 
a discourse, which was sustained. He was then directed to prepare 
a sermon on Gal: 5. 25. to be delivered at our next. 
        Mr. David Root delivered a discourse, which was sustained; and 
he was directed to prepare a sermon on Acts 9. 20. to be delivered at 
our next. 
        Each member of presbytery is directed to supply in the vacancies two 
sabbaths at discretion. 
        Adjourned, to meet at Pisgah Church on the first Thursday of April 
next. Concluded with prayer. 
                                        Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                        Henry Reid, Clerk. 
 
 
Pisgah Church, Madison county, Georgia, April 3d. 1817.        45th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment, and the 
moderator not being present, was opened with a sermon by Dr. Brown from 
 
 
140. 
Matt: 26. 36. Sleep on now and take your rest. 
Ministers,                       present                        Elders. 
Revd. John Brown, D. D.                                        Alexander Thompson. 
Henry Reid, & 
Nathan S. S. Beman. Absent, Francis Cummins, Thomas Newton, 
John Hodge & Edward Pharr.                Constituted with prayer. 
        Dr. Brown was chosen Moderator, & Mr. Beman clerk. 
        The minutes of the last stated sessions were read. 
        Dr. Brown gave satisfactory reasons for absence from our last, likewise, 
for the absence of Mr. Hodge from our present and last. He presented 
a letter, which was read, from the Revd. Mr. Cummins, stating reasons 
for absence from these sessions; which were sustained. 
        Adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow morning at 7 oclock. 
Concluded with prayer. 
Pisgah, April 4th. 1817. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Present as above. Constituted 
with prayer. 
        The minutes of the stated sessions at Washington, April 1816, which 
were not brought up to the subsequent meeting were called for & read. 
        A call from the Church at Mount Zion, to the Revd. Nathan S. S. 
 
 
                                                                                141. 
Beman, to take the pastoral charge of said church was brought forward 
and read, and was presented to Mr. Beman for his consideration, acceptance, 
or rejection, with the proviso, that in case Mr. Beman should accept, 
it will be understood to be for only one half of his time. 
        The revd. Thomas Newton appeared and took a seat. 
        Mr. Root delivered a discourse on the subject assigned him at our 
last, which was considered and sustained. And he was directed to 
prepare a sermon on 2d. Tim: 2. 13. to be delivered at our next. He 
was also directed to prepare for examination on the first fifteen chapters 
of the Confession of Faith. 
        Adjourned, to meet at this place, tomorrow morning at 9 oclock. 
Concluded with prayer. 
Pisgah, April 5th. 1817. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
above. Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Newton rendered reasons for absence from our last, and for 
tardiness at our present sessions. His reasons were sustained. 
        John Mayes, an elder of the church of Hebron, appeared and took 
a seat. 
        Whereas this presbytery have experienced, for several years past, 
 
 
142. 
considerable difficulty, in collecting the necessary materials for making 
out presbyterial reports to send on to the Synod and General 
Assembly; and some difficulty in the administration of sealing ordinanced, 
and exercise of discipline in the church, from not being able 
to know as distinctly as might be wished, who are to be considered 
as really belonging to our connexion. And whereas we have not 
been able to send ministers to preach in our vacant congregations, with 
any thing like a confident expectation that a suitable exchange of temporal 
good things would be made to those when we might send to minister in 
spiritual things: Therefore, with a view to remedy these evils, presbytery 
        Unanimously Resolved, That the several members of this body 
be directed, in the course of the next ensuing half year to visit the several 
congregations under our care and within our bounds, and to have the 
names of members enrolled in a book to be kept by some suitable person 
in each congregation. In this book must be noted, in different columns, 
the names of persons in full connexion; the names of married persons 
belonging to our order not in full connexion; and the names of single 
persons over the age of fourteen years; and the names of all baptized 
persons belonging to families in our connexion under fourteen years. 
        And it is further resolved, That all persons of our order and 
 
 
                                                                        143. 
living in our bounds who shall refuse to enrol, and give in the names of 
the several members of their families to be enrolled as above, shall be 
considered as having withdrawn themselves from our communion. 
        It is further resolved, That the minister visiting each congregation 
to enrol members, be directed to give notice that it is recommended 
to every member in full connexion with us to pay into 
the hands of some one who shall in each congregation be appointed 
to receive and receipt for the same, the sum of twenty-five cents, 
every three months: which, when collected, shall be sent on, by some 
mode to be hereafter described, to the treasurer of the presbytery, and 
the treasurer shall give receipts for all monies thus put into his 
hands by the collectors of the several congregations. 
        And it is further resolved, That the minister who shall visit 
the congregations to enrol the members, be directed to cause a collection 
to be made in each congregation of such sum or sums of money as the 
charitable in those congregations may think proper to give, besides the 
twenty-five cents from each member; which monies when collected 
shall be given to the congregational collector, and the amount entered 
on his book, which monies shall also be sent on to the presbyterial 
treasurer, as shall hereafter be directed. 
144. 
        And it is further resolved, That as soon as a sufficient sum of 
money is collected, or is in reasonable expectation of being collected, that 
the moderator for the time being shall immediately, or as soon as convenient, 
employ some suitable and proper minister or ministers of the 
gospel, of the presbyterian church to itinerate in our bounds & preach 
in our vacant congregations, in such rotation as the moderator for the 
time being may think proper to direct. [*Presbyterial Evangelist.*] 
        And it is further resolved, that each itinerant thus employed, 
shall be expected to preach every sabbath day, and remain in the 
congregation for the following part of the week, or as much thereof as may 
be consistent with his travelling to his next appointment; and during 
the week he shall be expected to preach frequently, and by day or by 
night, as his views of propriety may direct, and at such places as may 
be most convenient for the congregation to attend. It will be understood 
and expected that he shall as frequently as practicable, catechise the children, 
and examine the young people, either by visiting from house to 
house, or collected a few together as may be most expedient. 
        And it is further resolved, That persons or families refusing 
to submit to catechetical instruction and examination as aforesaid, 
shall be considered as contumacious, and  dealt with accordingly. 
 
 
                                                                        145. 
        And it is further resolved, That should the monies procured, by 
quarterage and collection or otherwise, be sufficient to enable the Moderator 
to do so, that he increase the number of itinerants, until preaching 
be established in all our vacant congregations, one sabbath in every 
month. 
        And it is further resolved, That whenever any of our vacant 
congregations shall be able, either separately, or two or more united, to 
maintain a minister, on their presenting a call to an itinerant, or any 
other minister belonging to our presbytery, that he shall be entitled in 
such way and manner as is prescribed by the discipline of our church. 
But the members in full connexion shall not be excused from paying 
their quarterage, for the maintenance of itinerants in vacant congregations. 
        It is likewise resolved, That the salary to be given to an itinerant, 
shall not exceed thirty-three dollars per month. 
        It is also resolved, That the moderator for the time being, shall 
administer the Lords supper, or cause it to be administered to every 
year, and on those occasions, collections shall be made for the support 
of itinerants.  
 
 
146. 
        And further, the presbytery do hereby recommend and enjoin 
upon all in their connexion, both ministers and people a more 
careful examination of the doctrines of the gospel, and a strict and 
holy walk with God in the duties of the christian religion; and 
very particularly recommend a more zealous attention to the 
instruction of youth in the doctrines and duties of christianity. 
        Ordered, That in conformity with the above resolutions, and 
for the purpose of carrying them into effect, the revd. Francis Cummins 
visit the churches in Greene, and Oglethorpe; John Brown, D. D. the 
churches in Clarke, Jackson & Morgan; Mr. Newton, the churches in 
Franklin and Madison; Mr. Reid, the congregations in Elbert and 
Lincoln; and Mr. Beman, the churches in Wilkes and Hancock, and 
make report of their proceedings at our next stated sessions. 
        Joseph Bryan, Esqr. of Hancock was appointed treasurer. 
        Ordered, That the Moderator cause the foregoing resolutions to be printed 
in the form of a circular, and a copy transmitted to each member of the presbytery 
as soon as convenient.  
        Each member of presbytery, was ordered to supply in the vacancies, 
two sabbaths at discretion. 
        Concluded with prayer.  
 
 
                                                                                147. 
        Presbytery then adjourned, to meet at Madison in Morgan county, 
on the first Friday of September next. 
                                                John Brown, Modr. 
                                                Nathan S. S. Beman, Clk. 
 
 
Mdison, Morgan county, Friday September 5th. 1817.        46th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment, and was 
opened with a sermon by the revd. Mr. Reid, at the request of the moderator, 
from Epp: 5. 14. Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the 
dead, and Christ shall give thee light. 
Ministers                       present,                        Elders. 
Revd. Francis Cummins,                                        George Campbell & 
John Brown, D. D. &                                                Alexander Thompson. 
Henry Reid.         Absent the Revd. John Hodge, Thomas Newton, Edward 
Pharr, and Nathan S. S. Beman.        Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, and Dr. Brown, clerk. 
        The Revd. Robert Finley, D. D. President of the University of Georgia. 
and late a member of the presbytery of New Brunswick, signified his 
desire to become a member of this presbytery, and stated that he had 
taken a regular dismission from the presbytery of wich he had been 
 
 
 
 
148. 
a member, but had it not with him, and requested that he might be 
allowed to give it in, at our next stated sessions. Presbytery having 
full confidence that Dr. Finley was in regular standing, he was received 
as a member and took a seat.                Concluded with prayer. 
        Presbytery then adjourned, to meet at his place, tomorrow morning 
at 8 oclock. 
Madison, September 6th. 1817. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. Those of the last stated sessions 
were called for, but the stated clerk not being present, nor the minutes 
sent on, presbytery was obliged to proceed to business without them. 
        Mr. Root delivered a sermon on 2d Thess: 2d 13. the subject assigned 
him at our last; which was sustained as part of trails; and he was 
directed to prepare a sermon on James 1st 13. and a lecture on James 
2d. 23 to 26 inclusive, to be delivered at our next. 
        Mr. Douglas appeared and gave satisfactory reasons for not 
attending at our last sessions, and stated that through in disposition  
of body, and a great press of business, he had not been able to prepare 
the sermon assigned him at our session in November last. He was 
 
 
                                                                        149. 
directed to prepare on the same subject, and another sermon on 1st. Tim: 
4. 10. to be delivered at our next. 
        Alonso Church, a graduate of Middleberry College, and now rector 
of the academy at Eatonton, appeared in presbytery and expressed 
his desire to be taken under our care as a candidate for the holy ministry; 
and having produced satisfactory testimonials of his being in 
the full communion of the church: expressed his approbation and acceptance 
of the Confession of Faith adopted by the General Assembly 
of the presbyterian church in the United States of America; declared 
his willingness to submit to this presbytery in the Lord; he gave 
satisfactory evidence of his having experienced a work of grace on his 
heart, and was received as a candidate under our care. He was 
directed to prepare a sermon on John 20. 29, latter clause, to be delivered 
at our next. 
        Presbytery taking into consideration the destitute state of the 
churches in our bounds; knowing that many of our people have been 
obliged to join other religious societies, or remain in a great measure 
bereaved of the enjoyment which arises from the communion of 
saints in gospel ordinance: Believing that our churches might be 
increased, and many new congregations formed, provided we could 
 
 
150. 
give reasonable assurances that they would be supplied with 
pastors;the members feel it their duty to pray the Lord of the harvest 
to send forth more labourers. And whereas, our prayers ought, 
always to be accompanied with dutiful endeavors for the attainment 
of the blessings for which we pray.  And whereas there is 
but little opportunity for young men to acquire the knowledge of 
these things which are necessary to qualify for the discharge of ministerial 
duty; presbytery feels it incumbent on it to endeavour to make 
some provisions for the continence and increase of a gospel ministry 
in this part of the vineyard, when these who now officiate in 
holy things shall have rested from their labours. And believing that 
a Theological school in this part of the world might be subservient to 
that end, Unanimously resolved to take that subject into consideration, 
and to use such ways and means, as God in his providence 
may seem to open up to view, as likely to be conducive to the end. 
And the revd. Francis Cummins, Dr. Brown & Dr. Finley were appointed 
a committee to draft a plan for a Theological school, to be laid 
before presbytery at the next sessions, together with a statement of their 
views of the best means for carrying the measure into effect. [*To found a Theological School*] 
        Dr. Brown informed the presbytery that the resolutions entered 
 
 
                                                                        151. 
into at our last, had been published in the form of a circular, according 
to order; and measure taken to send a copy to each member. 
        The members directed to enrol in the several districts mentioned in 
these resolutions were requested to make report of their progress in the 
business.  
        The revd. Mr. Cummins reported that he had received the circular containing 
these resolutions at so late a period, that it was not in his power 
to go through the whole; but that he had enrolled in the congregations of 
Bethany, Siloam and Center. 
        Dr. Brown reported that in consequence of bodily indisposition he had 
not completed the enrolment in the district assigned him. 
        Mr. Reid reported that he not received a copy of the circular, and 
had made no enrolment. 
        Mr. Newton was not present, but Mr. Thompson, and elder, gave in 
an enrolment of the congregations of Hebron, Pisgah, and Newhope. 
        From Mr. Beman, no report. 
        Ordered, That the members complete the enrolment agreeable to the 
order of our last, and report at our next. 
        The Moderator was directed to procure as seen as convenient a suitable minister 
and employ him to itinerate in our bounds until our next, and should 
 
 
152. 
there be any deficiency in the funds, the members pledge themselves 
to the moderator for an equal proportion of such deficit. 
        On motion of Dr. Finley, Resolved, That Dr. Brown be directed to 
endeavour to procure one hundred copies of the Confession of Faith, and 
one thousand copies of the Shorter Catechism, and a like number of the 
Mothers Catechism, for the use of our churches.  
        On motion of Dr. Finley, Resolved, That the members of this presbytery 
look out for young men suitable to be educated for the gospel 
ministry, and report at our next. 
        Mr. Root & Mr. Douglas were examined on the first eight chapters of 
the Confession of Faith. Their examination was sustained, and they were 
directed to be prepared on the remaining chapters of the Confession, by our 
next. Mr. Root was directed to prepare an Exegesis, on this topic, Num 
infantes fidelium baptisandi? And Mr. Douglas, an Exegesis on this 
topic, Quid sit mors spiritualis? to be delivered as parts of trial. 
        The members present, it appears, have fulfilled their appointments in 
the vacant congregations, and they were directed for the ensuing term, to supply, 
each, two sabbaths at discretion.                Concluded with prayer. 
        Presbytery adjourned, to meet at Athens on the first Wednesday of Feb: next. 
                                                Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                                John Brown, Clk. 
 
 
                                                                        153. 
Athens, Clarke county, Wednesday February 4th. 1818.        47th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell, not being able to form a quorum today, 
there being present only the revd. Dr. Brown, and the revd. Mr. Hodge, 
adjourned until tomorrow 12 oclock. 
Thursday, February 5th. 1818. 
        Members present as above. Adjourned until tomorrow 12 oclock. 
Friday, February 6th. 1818. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment of yesterday. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders 
Revd. John Brown, D. D.                                        John Espey 
John Hodge, &                                                Alexander Thompson, & 
Henry Reid.                                                        John King. 
        Absent, the revd. Messrs. Francis Cummins, Thomas Newton, 
Edward Pharr, and Nathan S. S. Beman. 
        Presbytery was opened by the Revd. Mr. Reid with a sermon 
from Matt: 11. 29. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me, for I 
am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest to your 
souls.         Constituted with prayer. 
        Dr. Brown was chosen moderator & Mr. Reid, clerk. 
        The minutes of last session were called for to be read, but the 
 
 
154. 
stated clerk not being present, nor the minutes sent on, presbytery 
had to proceed to business without them. 
        Having received the mournful intelligence of the death of the Revd. 
Dr. Robert Finley, late president of the University of Georgia, this presbytery 
in the spirit of condolence with the family of the deceased, and 
with one another under this dark and afflictive dispensation of 
Divine Providence, and with a view to a due improvement of the 
same, appointed the Revd. Mr. Beman to preach a funeral sermon 
on the occasion, at Athens on the second sabbath of March next, 
and in care of his non attendance, the sermon to be preached by 
Dr. Brown. 
        A letter was received from the Synod of South Carolina and 
Georgia charging this presbytery with delinquency in not making out 
And sending up presbyterial reports to Synod, also with negligence 
as to attendance at their sessions. Whereupon the stated clerk was 
directed to prepare as well as he can, from the materials in his possession, 
a presbyterial report to be sent to Synod at their next sessions, 
also a like report to be sent to the General Assembly. 
        Mr. David Root delivered an Exegesis from, Num infantes fidelium 
baptisandi? the theme assigned him at our last, which was 
 
 
                                                                        155. 
considered and sustained. 
        Mr. Alonzo Church delivered a discourse on the subject assigned 
him at our last; which being heard and considered, was sustained. He 
was directed to prepare a discourse on Rom: 8. 23. to be delivered at our 
next; and an an Exegesis on this theme, Quomodo lux, priusquam sol 
creatus? He was also directed to prepare for examination of the first 
eight chapters of the Confession of Faith.  
        Mr. Joseph Ratchford, an elder from Thyatira church, appeared and 
took a seat. 
        Mr. Root was examined on part of the Confession of Faith, as assigned 
at our last; and his examination was considered and sustained. 
        Concluded with prayer. Adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow 
morning 9 oclock. 
Athens, Saturday February 7th. 1818. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as on 
yesterday. Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. James Espey, an elder from Bethsalem church, appeared and 
took a seat. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Presbytery viewing with regret the apparent declension of vital religion 
 
 
156. 
among the members of the church of our communion, and their 
neglect in attendance on the means of grace, feeling the necessity for 
more energy in our measures, Resolved, That the moderator be 
directed to draft and transmit, as soon as possible, a letter to each member 
of presbytery absent from our present presbytery, requesting him 
by that authority which we have received from the Lord, for edification 
and not for destruction, that for the future he be more careful and 
punctual in his attendance on ecclesiastical judicatories; also that 
he transmit a letter to one Elder in each congregation, requesting that 
Elder to convene the other Elders, and that they unite their efforts in 
the support of discipline, the instruction of youth, and suppression of 
vice: reminding them of the bearing of their ordination vows to the 
discharge of these and such like duties: and further, requesting that 
some one Elder in each congregation be appointed to report to every 
stated session of this presbytery as to their fidelity and success in 
these things. [*Attendance on Ecchsiastical Meetings*] [*Duties of Elders*] 
        Whereas presbytery has received information that a man known 
by the name of Johnston, has been travelling for some time through 
this state and the state of South Carolina, holding himself up to 
the consideration of the community as a preacher of the presbyterian 
 
 
                                                                        157. 
order: And whereas we know nothing of him as a minister of the gospel, 
and know not whether the said Johnston be, or be not an imposter, 
we therefore think it our duty to warn the people of our connexion to be 
cautious how they received said Johnston as a preacher of the gospel, and 
we recommend that he be not received as on good standing, unless he 
produces sufficient testimonials of his being in the faith and order of  
our church. 
        Ordered, That the above minute be three times published in the 
Milledgeville Journal. 
        Mr. David Root entered into the engagements required of probationers  
before license; and after prayer by the moderator, he was in due form 
licensed to preach the gospel, and record thereof was ordered to be entered 
on our minutes in the following form, viz:  
        At Athens, on the seventh day of February in the year of our 
Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, the presbytery of Hopewell, 
having received sufficient testimonials in favour of David Root, of 
his having gone through a regular course of literature; of his good moral 
character; and of his being in the communion of the church; proceeded 
to take the usual parts of trial for his licensure. And he having 
given satisfaction as to his accomplishments in literature; as to 
 
 
158. 
his experimental acquaintance with religion; and as to his proficiency 
in Divinity, and other studies; the presbytery did and hereby do express 
their approbation of all these parts of trial: And he having adopted 
the Confession of Faith of this church; and satisfactorily answered 
the questions, appointed to be put to candidates to be licensed, the presbytery 
did, and hereby do license the said David Root to preach the 
gospel of Christ, as a probationer for the holy ministry, within the 
bounds of this presbytery, or wherever he shall be orderly called.  
        Ordered, That the Moderator write to some Elder, or to some other 
person in each of the congregations under our care, requesting that such 
congregational returns be immediately made to the state clerk, as will 
be sufficient to enable him to make out presbyterial reports for the 
Synod and General Assembly. 
        Whereas, two of the candidates under our care, have not attended 
this meeting, nor sent forward and written cause of failure, and one 
of them had not attended for three sessions last past. Therefore, 
        Resolved, That the Moderator be directed to write to these young 
men, and inform them, that unless they attend at our next stated 
sessions, or send on a good and sufficient excuse, they shall be dealt 
with as our discipline directs. 
 
 
                                                                        159. 
        The members present, it appears, have fulfilled their appointments 
for supplying in the vacancies, and are directed for the ensuing term to 
supply two sabbaths at discretion.                Concluded with prayer. 
        Presbytery then adjourned to meet at Center Church in Oglethorpe 
county on the first Thursday of September next. 
                                                John Brown, Modr. 
                                                Henry Reid, clk. 
 
 
Center Church, Oglethorpe county, September 3d. 1818.        48th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment, and was 
opened with a sermon by the revd. Francis Cummins from John 1st. 29: 
Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders 
Revd. Francis Cummins,                                        John Espey, 
        John Brown, D. D.                                        and 
        John Hodge,                                                William Campbell. 
        Edward Pharr, & 
        Henry Reid.                Absent Revd. Thomas Newton & N. S. S. Beman. 
        Constituted by prayer. 
        Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, and Mr. Reid, clerk. 
 
 
160. 
        The minutes of the last session were read. 
        The Revd. Mr. Cummins & Mr. Pharr gave satisfactory reasons for 
non attendance our last. 
        Mr. Campbell made application for supplies at Center. 
        Concluded with prayer.        Adjourned to meet at their place 
tomorrow morning 9 oclock. 
Center Church, September 4th. 1818. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
on yesterday. Constituted with prayer. 
        The Revd. Mr. Cummins gave notice that a respectable number 
of persons in the counties of Morgan and Jasper, who had associated  
together for the purpose of enjoying public worship, and the administration  
of the ordinances of the gospel, desired to be received under our 
care, and known by the name of Thyatira Congregation. They were 
accordingly received, and hereafter to be known and distinguished by 
the name aforesaid.                Concluded with prayer. 
        Adjourned, to meet at this place tomorrow morning 9 oclock. 
Center Church, September 5th. 1818. 
        Presbytery not according to adjournment. Members present as 
above.  Constituted by prayer. 
         
                                                                        161. 
        Mr. Alexander Thompson, an elder, appeared & took a seat. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Mr. Orson Douglas was examined on several chapters of the Confession 
of Faith, say from the ninth of the seventeenth inclusive; and 
his examination was considered and sustained. 
        The Revd. Mr. Beman, & Mr. Joseph Bryan, and elder, appeared 
and took seats. Mr. Beman gave satisfactory reasons for absence 
from two preceding sessions of presbytery, & for tardiness at the present. 
        A letter was received from the Synod of South Carolina & Georgia, 
addressed to the Moderator of this presbytery, on the subject of our members 
neglecting to attend the last meeting of Synod in Augusta. Our 
Moderator was directed to write a respectful answer to the Moderator 
of Synod on that subject, stating that we had been misinformed as to 
the time of the meeting of the reverend body. 
        Appointments of supply in vacant congregations, it appears, have 
been generally fulfilled. For the ensuing term, Mr. Cummins is directed 
to supply two sabbaths at Thyatira congregation in Jasper and 
Morgan; and the other members, each, two sabbaths at discretion.  
        The Revd. Messrs. Francis Cummins & Nathan S. S. Beman are 
appointed commissioners to represent this presbytery in the next General 
 
 
162. 
Assembly; and the clerk is directed to make out their commissions. 
        The Moderator of the last session reported that he had written, agree 
able to order, to our candidates on the subject of nonattendance. Mr. Douglas 
rendered satisfactory reasons for absence; and he was directed to prepare 
for delivery at our next, a discourse on the subject assigned him 
on a former occasion, and a sermon on Eppes: 2. 8. 
        Mr. Bryan, our treasurer, gave information that he had received 
a small sum of money for the payment of itinerants, and that he had reason 
to believe more could be procured. The Moderator was authorized 
to employ two itinerants, and to have them in service, if possible, by the 
first of January next. 
        Mr. Beman resigned the office of stated clerk, and Dr. Brown 
was elected to fill the vacancy.                Concluded with prayer. 
        Presbytery then adjourned, to meet at Mount Zion Church, Hancock 
county on the first Saturday of April. 
                                                Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                                Henry Reid, Clerk. 
 
 
                                                                        163. 
Mount Zion Church, Hancock county, Saturday April 3d. 1819.        49th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment, and was 
opened with a sermon by the Revd. Mr. Reid from Matt: 12. 21 And 
in his name shall the Gentiles trust. 
Ministers,                       present                        Elders. 
Revd. Francis Cummins,                                        Joseph Bryan & 
        Nathan S. S. Beman &                                Dr. James Nisbet. 
        Henry Reid.                Absent Revd. John Brown, D. D. Thomas Newton 
and John Hodge.        Constituted with prayer. 
        The Revd. Mr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, and Mr. Reid, clerk. 
        The Revd. Mr. Stephen Saunders, from New Castle presbytery, being present 
was invited and took a seat as a corresponding member. 
        Concluded with prayer.        Presbytery then adjourned to meet at this 
place Monday morning at 9 oclock. 
Mount Zion, April 5th. 1819. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Member present as on Saturday. 
Constituted with prayer. 
        Dr. Brown, now present, rendered satisfactory reasons for absence on 
Saturday, and took a seat. He gave information of the death of our 
beloved brother the Revd. Mr. John Hodge. Blessed are the dead that 
 
 
164. 
die in the Lord. 
        The minutes of Saturday, and also of our last session were read. 
        A letter was received from Mr. Eli Smith, a licentiate under our 
care, requesting a dismission from this presbytery, to join the presbytery 
of Louisville. Whereupon Resolved, That he be dismissed according 
by; and the clerk is directed to furnish him with a copy of his license, 
and a certificate of his good standing with us as testimonials 
to the presbytery of Louisville. 
        Dr. Brown gave information that a letter had been received, directed 
to this presbytery, from the Synod of South Carolina and Georgia in 
answer to ours on the subject of our nonattendance at the Synodical 
meeting at Augusta in May last, and that our reasons for not 
meeting with our brethren at that time and place had been 
deemed satisfactory. 
The Moderator informed presbytery that he had employed the 
Revd. Mr. Stephen Saunders, a member of the New Castle presbytery in the 
state of Maryland, to preach as a missionary in our bounds, from 
the 18th. of February last, to this time. Mr. Saunders gave in a  
written report of his missionary tour, from which it appears that 
he had faithfully discharged the duty assigned to him; and he received 
 
 
                                                                        165. 
the cordial thanks of presbytery. And the clerk was directed to issue a 
draft in his favour for sixty dollars as compensation for his services. Mr. 
Saunders received while on his mission Twenty dollars, which was 
paid over to the treasurer.  
        Mr. Church delivered a discourse on Rom: 8. 23.; which was 
sustained as part of trials.                Concluded with prayer. 
        Adjourned, to meet at the Female Academy at 4 oclock P.M. 
        Female Academy 4 oclock.        Presbytery met according to adjournment. 
Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Douglas delivered a sermon on 1st. Tim: 4. 10 which was sustained 
as part of trials. 
        Mr. Church delivered an Exegesis on this topic, Quomodo lux, priusquam 
sol creatis? which was sustained. 
        Mr. Douglas delivered an Exegesis on this topic, Quid sit 
mors spiritualis? and also a sermon on Eppes: 2. 8. Both of which 
were sustained.        Concluded with prayer. 
        Adjourned to meet at the church tomorrow morning 9 oclock. 
Mount Zion, April 6th. 1819. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
on yesterday. Constituted with prayer. 
 
 
166. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Mr. Church was directed to prepare a sermon on Gal: 5. 25 to 
be delivered at our next. 
        Mr. Douglas was directed to prepare a sermon on Rom: 10. 4 
to be delivered our next. 
        On motion, Resolved, That Mr. Beman be appointed to 
act in conjunction with the Moderator in procuring Itinerants to 
preach in our bounds, on the plan stated in our printed circular, 
until our next. 
        Letters were received from Mr. Gildersleeve and Mr. Root signifying 
their wish to be ordained as Evangelists, sine titule. 
After considerable deliberation on the subject, it was agreed that 
Mr. Gildersleeve be directed to prepare a lecture, on Rom: 8. 1-5 inclusive; 
and a sermon on 1st. John 3. 9. And Mr. Root a lecture  
on 1st. John 5. 1-5 inclusive; and a sermon on 2d. Tim: 2. 15. 
to be delivered as popular trials for ordination at our next stated 
session. Mr. Beman to preach the ordination sermon, and Dr. 
Brown to preside and give the charge. 
        Mr. Douglas stated to presbytery that he found it extremely 
inconvenient to make desirable progress in his Theological studies 
 
 
                                                                167. 
whilst engaged in teaching a school; that he had for some time thought 
of going to Princeton to become a member of the Theological seminary, 
and wished the advice of presbytery in the case. Presbytery unanimously 
and warmly recommended that he should go on to Princeton; 
and the clerk is directed to give him a certificate of his good 
standing with us, provided he should go to complete his studies at 
that institution. 
        In consequence of the death of Dr. Finley, the committee appointed in 
in September 1817 to draft a plan for a Theological school did not report. 
Mr. Cummins, Dr. Brown and Mr. Beman are appointed a committee 
to report on that subject at our next. 
        Appointment for supplies, it appears, have been generally fulfilled; 
and the brethren are again directed to preach in the vacancies 
as usual. 
        The clerk is directed to send on a presbyterial report to the 
next General Assembly. 
        Concluded with prayer.        Adjourned to meet at Siloam Church, 
Greenesborough, on the first Saturday of September next. 
                                        Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                        Henry Reid, Clk. 
168. 
        Siloam Church, Greenesboro, September 4th. 1819.        50th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment, & was 
opened with a sermon by Mr. Cummins, the Moderator, on Rom: 3. 12. 
What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is thereof circumcision? 
Much every way: chiefly: because that unto them were 
committed the oracles of God. 
Ministers,                       present                        Elders. 
Revd. Francis Cummins,                                        Joseph Bryan, 
        John Brown, D. D.                                        George Watkins, & 
        Henry Reid &                                                Dr. James Nisbet. 
        Nathan S. S. Beman.                Absent the Revd. Messrs. Thomas Newton 
& Edward Pharr.                Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Beman was chosen Moderator, and Dr. Brown, clerk. 
        The Revd. Dr. Moses Waddel, president of the University of 
Georgia, a member of the South Carolina presbytery, being present, 
was invited and took a seat with us as a corresponding member. 
        The minutes of the last session were read. 
        Mr. Church delivered a sermon on Gal: 5. 25. which was 
sustained.  
        Concluded with prayer. Adjournment till Monday morning. 
 
 
                                                                        169. 
Siloam Church, September 6. 1819. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as on 
Saturday. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of Saturday were read. 
        The order of our last respecting the ordination of Mr. Gildersleeve & 
Mr. Root was called up and read. Mr. Root was not present. The 
question respecting ordination, sine titule, was taken up and discussed 
at considerable length: and as there appeared to be some difference of opinion 
among the members present, on the subject, it was agreed that the 
ordination of Mr. Gildersleeve be deferred. 
        Mr. Reid requested to be dismissed from this presbytery to join 
the presbytery of South Carolina: His request was granted: and the clerk 
was directed to furnish Mr. Reid with proper testimonials of his good 
standing with us, and to recommend him to ministerial fellowship 
with that presbytery. 
        Presbytery having understood that Mr. Root a candidate under our care 
had taken a distant journey to the north; the clerk is directed to write 
to Mr. Root, and inform him it is expected that he either attend our meeting; 
or by letter or otherwise give such information as will enable us to 
judge his fidelity in the discharge on ministerial duty, and his due regard 
 
 
170. 
to the order and discipline of the church. 
        Mr. Cummins, our last Moderator, and Mr. Beman appointed to assist 
him, in endeavouring to procure itinerants to minister in our bounds, 
reported; That they had, not as yet, been able to procure a suitable person 
to be employed in that business. Mr. Cummins stated that he had 
written to the professors in the Theological Seminary at Princeton, and 
had reason to hope that one or more would be sent on from thence. Mr. 
Beman believed that some assistance could be obtained from the north 
at an early period. The moderator is authorized to employ one or two, at 
the rate of six hundred dollars a year: and our members are directed to 
be diligent in endeavouring to procure funds for the payment of such as 
may be employed. 
        The report of a committee of the General Assembly appointed to revise 
the form of government &c. of the presbyterian church, was laid before presbytery 
for consideration; and Mr. Cummins was directed to confer with the 
said committee, in behalf of this presbytery on the subject of their report. [*1819. Revision of the Form of Gov.*] 
        On the subject of a Theological school, a report of considerable length 
was brought in and read, and in part considered; but not adopted. Presbytery  
then proceeded to the choice of a site for this institution. Athens 
and Mount Zion was put in nomination. On taking the votes it was [*Theological School.*] 
 
 
                                                                        171. 
carried in favour of Athens. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned to meet at this 
place at sun rise. 
Siloam Church, September 7th. 1819. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as on 
yesterday. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        On the subject of a Theological school, another report was brought 
in and read; but not adopted. The further consideration of the subject 
was indefinitely postponed. 
        Appointments for supplies, it appears, have been fulfilled. Members 
are directed to supply in the vacancies as usual. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned to meet at 
Athens on the first Saturday of April next. 
                                        Nathan S. S. Beman, Modr. 
[*Augusta Georgia (Dec 4th, 1830 
examined & approved to page 171*]                John Brown, Clk. 
                                        Thomas Goulding, Modr. Synod 
 
 
Athens, April 1st. 1820.                                51st. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment and 
was opened with a sermon by the Revd. Nathan S. S. Beman, the 
 
 
172. 
last Moderator, from Jeb 11. 7. Canst thou by searching find out God? 
Canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? 
Ministers                       present                        Elders. 
Revd. Francis Cummins,                                        Thomas Harris, 
        Edward Pharr, &                                        James Nesbit, John Alexander 
        Nathan S. S. Beman                                        & James Witherspoon. 
        Absent, The Revd. John Brown, D. D. 
        Presbytery was constituted with prayer. After which the Revd. 
Francis Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Nathan S. S. Beman, Clerk. 
        The Revd. Dr. Waddel, a member of the South Carolina presbytery 
being present, exhibited a dismission and recommendation from 
that presbytery, and was received as member of Hopewell, 
after which he took a seat. 
        The Revd. Mr. Field, an ordained minister of the Congregational 
Church in Massachusetts and a missionary in the service 
of this presbytery, being invited, and took a seat with us 
as a corresponding member. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned, to meet 
again this afternoon at half past four oclock. 
 
 
                                                                        173. 
Athens, Saturday afternoon. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present, as above. 
Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Beman was excused from the duties of clerk, on account of indisposition, 
and Dr. Waddel was chosen to fill his place. 
        A communication was received from the temporary clerk of the 
Synod of South Carolina and Georgia, containing a resolution of the 
Synod at their last sessions, requiring the presbyteries under their 
care, each to pay Twenty dollars, as their quota of a debt due by 
the Synod of the Carolinas at the time of its division; otherwise to 
exhibit evidence from their minutes that the aforesaid debt or arrearage 
has been paid. Whereupon it was 
        Ordered, That the Moderator of this presbytery write to the 
stated clerk of the Synod of South Carolina and Georgia, requesting 
information respecting the nature of the claim and the consideration 
for which it is due. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery adjourned to meet at this 
place at half past eight oclock. 
Athens. Monday morning, April 3d. 1820. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
 
 
174. 
above, except Dr. Nesbit. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of the session of Saturday were read. 
        Mr. William Hodge, an elder representing the churchers of Newhope 
& Pergamos; and also Mr. John Barnwell, a representative from the 
church of Mendham in Jackson county, appeared & took their seats. 
        A communication was received from a member of persons residing 
in the town of Clinton & Jones county, expressing a desire to be 
received under the care of this presbytery, and their ability & willingness 
to compensate Mr. Gildersleeve for one fourth part of his ministerial 
labors during one year among them. 
        The presbytery was informed that the Moderator of the las sessions 
had employed the Revd. John Field, of the Congregational church 
of Massachusetts, as a missionary for three months and a half within 
the bounds of the presbytery.  Mr. Field, being present, delivered 
his report: on which, it was directed that the treasurer pay to Mr.  
Field one hundred and seventy-five dollars; and that the clerk 
write to Dr. Brown, that he endeavour to collect twenty dollars of 
the same and transmit them to Joseph Bryan, Esqr. our treasurer 
as early as possible. 
        The Revd. Mr. Cummins, the Moderator, having obtained 
 
 
                                                                        175. 
leave of absence during the remainder of the present session, Mr. 
Pharr was called to the chair. 
        The subject of Mr. Gildersleeves ordination was resumed. Mr. 
Gildersleeve produced a letter from the Revd. Dr. Miller, professor of 
Ecclesiastical History in the Theological Seminary at Princeton, in 
answer to a letter inquiring his opinion on the subject; in which 
he referred the writer and the presbytery to the extracts of the 
General Assembly for the year 1814, in which the decision of the 
General Assembly is that Presbyteries have a right to ordain 
sine titule, without consulting a Synod or General Assembly. 
Whereupon the presbytery agreed to submit to the decision aforesaid, 
and decided that Mr. Gildersleeves trials for ordination be attended 
to this evening and tomorrow. 
        Mr. Remembrance Chamberlain, a missionary under the 
direction of the General Assembly appeared before presbytery and 
having made it appear that he had been acting as a missionary 
during two months past within this state: On motion, it was 
        Ordered, That this presbytery assume the payment of his salary 
for this term of time; and that the ministers make arrangements 
to collect the sum necessary for this purpose, and remit it 
 
 
176. 
to the committee of the General Assembly for missions, as soon as 
practicable.  
        Mr. Church delivered a sermon founded on Luke 23. 42. being  
the subject assigned him at our last sessions; which, being considered, 
was approved and sustained. 
        Mr. Gildersleeve delivered a sermon from 1. John 3. 9. the subject 
assigned him at our sessions last spring, which, after due consideration, 
was approved as a part of trials previous to ordination. 
        Concluded with prayer.        Adjourned to meet tomorrow morning 
at 8 oclock. 
Athens, Tuesday, April 4th. 1820. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present, as 
above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        Presbytery proceeded to examine Mr. Gildersleeve on experimental 
religion, natural and moral philosophy, Theology, the Greek 
language, church history, and church government; all which examinations 
were sustained. 
        The Revd. Nathan S. S. Beman then delivered an ordination 
sermon from John 21. 16. after which the Revd. Moses Waddel, 
 
 
                                                                        177. 
who had been previously appointed to preside, proposed the natural questions 
to Mr. Gildersleeve, the candidate, and he having answered them 
in the affirmative, and publicly adopted the Confession of Faith and 
the government and discipline of our church, was then solemnly set 
apart to the office of the Gospel ministry by prayer and the imposition  
of hands of the presbytery. The right hand of fellowship was then 
given, and a suitable charge delivered, by the presiding member, the 
newly ordained minister was invited to take a seat in presbytery. 
        The Clerk having been directed to prepare a presbyterial report 
and forward it by mail to the General Assembly: which report is 
as follows, viz: 
Ministers.                       Churches.                        Communicants. 
Revd. Francis Cummins,........Greenesborough,................................20. 
        John Brown, D. D..Without a charge. 
        Moses Waddel, D. D...Sandy Creek..25. 
        Thomas Newton..Without a charge. 
        Edward Pharr,..............Without a charge. 
        N. S. S. Beman,............Mount Zion,....................................40. 
        Same,............................Eatonton,........................................18. 
        Benjamin Gildersleeve, No charge. 
 
 
178. 
Vacancies.        Bethany,        23.        Communicants.        Thyatira,         25, Comms. 
                Salem,                15.                                Mulberry,         27. 
                Washington,         15.                                Hebron,         30. 
                Bethsalem,        15.                                Madison,        25. 
                Danielville,        15.                                Athens,        21. 
                New Hope         20                                Clinton,        6. 
        An address of the Synod of South Carolina and Georgia at their 
last sessions was received and read, proposing and recommending 
the formation of the Synod into a Missionary society. Whereupon it was 
Resolved, That this presbytery highly approve and adopt the 
plan proposed by the Synod, and that each member solicit contributions 
and bear or send them to Synod at their sessions in November 
next.  
        Presbytery proceeded to examine Mr. Church on his literary attainments; 
on which, his collegiate diploma, and his approved reputation 
as an academical teacher for several years in this state, 
as well as his being now a professor in the state University, were 
deemed satisfactory evidence. He was then examined on natural 
and revealed Theology, as well as on Church history; which examination, 
was approved and sustained. Whereupon, Mr. Church 
 
 
                                                                        179. 
having adopted the Confession of Faith of this church, and satisfactorily 
answered the questions appointed to be put to candidate for licensure, 
the presbytery did proceed to license Mr. Church to preach the 
Everlasting Gospel, as a probationer for the Holy Ministry, within the 
bounds of this presbytery, or where he shall be orderly called. 
        On enquiry, it appeared that the members had fulfilled their 
appointments for supplies. It was then Ordered that each member 
supply two sabbaths in our vacancies before our next sessions. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery adjourned to meet in Eaton 
on the Saturday before the third sabbath in September next. 
                                        Edward Pharr, Modr. 
                                        Moses Waddel, Clk. 
 
 
Eatonton, September 16th. 1820.                        52d. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment and, by 
the request of the Moderator, was opened with a sermon by the Revd. 
Thomas Goulding of the presbytery of Harmony, from 1st. Cor: 11. 28. 
But let a man examine himself. 
        Members present. Ministers. Revd. Francis Cummins, D. D. 
John Brown, D. D. and Edward Pharr; with Elder, Brice Gaither, 
 
 
180. 
George Erwin, Richard Jay, and John Henderson. Absent, Revd. 
Moses Waddel, D. D. Nathan S. S. Beman & Thomas Newton. Constituted 
with prayer. 
        The Revd. Dr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Dr. Brown, Clerk. 
        The Revd. Mr. Goulding was invited to sit as a corresponding member. 
        Mr. John Harrison, late a licentiate under the care of the 
presbytery of South Carolina, presented a dismission from that body 
and expressed a desire to place himself under the care of this presbytery; 
and he was accordingly received. 
        Calls from the congregations of Hebron & Concord to Mr. Harrison, 
for one fourth part of his ministerial labors in each, were presented 
through presbytery to him; and which were accordingly accepted. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery adjourned to meet at this 
place on Monday morning at 9 oclock. 
Eatonton, September 18th. 1820. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present, 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The Revd. Mr. Beman appeared, and rendered satisfactory 
reasons for his absence on Saturday & took a seat. 
 
 
                                                                        181. 
        Mr. David Root made application for a dismission from this 
presbytery to join the presbytery of                        in Ohio: on which 
the clerk was directed to make out a regular certificate & dismission 
for Mr. Root as of good standing with us. 
        Dr. Cummins, the Moderator, informed presbytery that Mr. Orson 
Douglas, a candidate for some time under our care, but now a member 
of the Theological Seminary at Princeton in New Jersey, had 
written to him requesting a dismission from this presbytery to join 
the presbytery of New Brunswick: Whereupon it was Ordered, 
that Mr. Douglas be regularly dismissed; and that the clerk forward 
to him a certificate of his good standing with us, together 
with a copy of this record. 
        Mr. Carlisle P. Beman, a graduate of Middleberry College in 
the state of Vermont, requested to be taken under the care of this 
presbytery, as a candidate for the Gospel ministry: and having produced 
satisfactory testimonials of his being in full communion 
with the church, expressed his approbation and acceptance of the 
Confession of Faith adopted by the General Assembly of the presbyterian 
church in the United State of America, declared his willingness 
to submit to the presbytery in the Lord. And having given 
 
 
182. 
satisfactory evidence of his having experience a work of grace on 
his heart, he was received as a candidate under our care. He then 
read a sermon on 2. Peter 1. 19 which was sustained as a part of trials 
for licensure; and he was directed to prepare a sermon on 2 Cor: 
5. 21. to be delivered at our next sessions, and to be prepared for 
examination on the first eight chapters of the Confession of Faith. 
        A letter was received from Dr. Waddel, stating reasons for his 
not attending our present sessions; which were sustained. 
        Mr. Harrison was directed to prepare a lecture on Rom: 5. 1. 5. 
inclusive, and a sermon on Heb: 9. 22. latter clause, to be delivered 
at our next stated sessions as parts of trial for ordination. The Revd. 
Mr. Beman is appointed to preach the ordination sermon, and the 
Revd. Dr. Cummins to preside and give the charge; and should Dr. Cummins 
not attend, the senior member present, to preside. 
        The members, it appears, have fulfilled appointments, and were 
directed to supply, as usual. 
        Concluded with prayer. Adjourned to meet at Hebron in Franklin 
county on the Saturday preceding the fourth sabbath in March next. 
                                Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                John Brown, Clk. 
 
 
                                                                        183. 
Hebron Church, Franklin county, March 23d. 1821. 
        This being the time and place to which the presbytery of Hopewell 
stood adjourned to meet. No members attended except Dr. Waddel 
& Mr. Pharr; and a constitutional number of ministers not being 
present, it was therefore impracticable to constitute a presbytery. 
Religious exercises, however; of a congregational kind were attended 
to and performed on that day, and the Lords Supper administered 
and received on the Lords day, which succeeded; after which, the 
meeting ceased.  
 
 
Athens, September 7th. 1821.                                53d. Session. 
        The Presbytery of Hopewell met at this place, agreeably to a 
notification previously made in a constitutional manner by the Rev: 
Francis Cummins, D. D. the Moderator of the last sessions, and was 
opened by Mr. John Harrison, with a lecture founded on Rom: 5.1-5. 
and a sermon on Heb: 9. 22. being the subjects appointed to him at 
our last stated sessions, as trials for ordination.  Members present: 
Ministers, Rev: Francis Cummins, D. D. Moses Waddel, D. D. & 
Edward Pharr, with Elders, James Espey, Joseph Ratchford, John 
Alexander, William Hodge & John King. Ministers absent, Revd. 
 
 
184. 
John Brown, D. D. Thomas Newton, Nathan S. S. Beman, & Benjamin 
Gildersleeve. Constituted with prayer. 
        The Rev: Joseph Wallis, of the Associate reformed presbytery; and 
the Rev: Messrs. Thomas Goulding and Remembrance Chamberlain, of 
the presbytery of Harmony, being present, were invited and took seats as 
corresponding members. 
        The Rev: Dr. Cummins was reelected Moderator & Dr. Waddel, Clerk. 
        The minutes of last stated session, not being present, could not 
be read according to usual custom. 
        Dr. Cummins assigned reason for his not attending the presbytery 
appointed to meet at Hebron last Spring, which were sustained. 
        Presbytery proceeded to examine and consider the lecture and 
sermon delivered by Mr. Harrison, and sustained them as parts of 
trial prior to ordination. 
        Mr. Harrison was then examined on natural & systematic Theology; 
and, after some time spent in this exercise, adjourned to meet 
at Dr. Waddels house at half past seven oclock this evening. And 
Concluded with prayer. 
Dr. Waddels half past seven oclock, P.M. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present, 
 
 
                                                                        185. 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        Presbytery then proceeded to examine Mr. Harrison on his acquaintance 
with experimental religion; as to his knowledge of Natural and 
Moral Philosophy, Ecclesastical History, and the Learned Languages; 
the consideration of all which examinations was deferred. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned, to meet in the 
College Chapel tomorrow morning at 8 oclock. 
Athens, College Chapel, September 8th. 1821. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present, as 
above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The consideration of Mr. Harrisons trials exhibited yesterday, was 
then resumed; and, after mature deliberation, the presbytery was unanimously 
of opinion that no part of his examination could be properly 
sustained as trials previous to ordination. This intelligence was communicated 
to Mr. Harrison by the Moderator, and was received by 
the candidate with becoming submission. He was directed to prepare 
a sermon on Proverbs 8. 36. and a lecture on Mal: 3. 1-4, as 
farther trials previous to ordination, to be exhibited before presbytery 
at their next stated sessions. Dr. Cummins was appointed to preside 
and give the charge, and Mr. Beman to preach the ordination 
 
 
186. 
sermon, as on the former minutes on that subject. 
        Mr. Nahum Nixon, originally a member of the church of Marlborough 
& lately of Mount Zion, having professed a desire to place himself 
under the care of this presbytery, as a candidate for the Gospel ministry, 
and exhibited the requisite testimonials of his moral character 
and literary qualifications; and after giving a satisfactory detail of 
the religious exercises of his mind, was unanimously approved and 
received by presbytery, as a candidate under their care. 
        It was then stated to presbytery that Mr. Nixon had been under 
the direction and patronage of a member of this body since October 
last, who had prescribed several presbyterial exercises, which he had 
prepared & expected to exhibit at the sessions of the presbytery appointed  
to meet at Hebron in March last; and that Mr. Nixon had devoted 
his undivided attention to the study of Divinity under the direction 
of the above mentioned member, since October last to the present 
time. 
        Mr. Nixon then produced and read an Exegesis on the following 
theme, viz: Num liceat Christi discipulis saltare secundum 
modum hujusce avi? and, afterward, a sermon on Matt: 5. 8. Which 
had been assigned to him, by the member alluded to before, as subjects 
 
 
                                                                        187. 
of trials previous to licensure: both of which were considered and 
sustained by the presbytery. 
        The Rev: Dr. Brown attended and rendered reasons for his absence from 
the meeting appointed to meet at Hebron in March last, as well as for 
his tardiness in attending the present sessions; all of which were sustained. 
        A letter was received from Mr. Beman, stating reasons for his absence 
from the present sessions of presbytery, which were not satisfactory. 
        The minutes of our last stated sessions at Eatonton having been 
brought forward by Dr. Brown were read. 
        Mr. Carlisle P. Beman produced and read a sermon on 2 Cor: 5. 
21. the subject assigned him at our last sessions, as a part of trial for 
licensure, which was not sustained. 
        Dr. Brown resigned his office as stated clerk of this presbytery, and 
Dr. Waddel was appointed to succeed him which he accepted for the 
present. 
        A congregation, known heretofore on our minutes by the name of 
Thyatira, in Morgan & Jasper counties, expressed through Dr. Brown 
their desire to be known in future by the name of Bethel; of which 
presbytery approved. 
        The small presbyterian society in Clinton, lately organized, petition 
 
 
188. 
this presbytery for supplies to administer the ordinance among them. 
        Mr. Alexander H. Webster, a graduate of Union College, having of 
forded satisfactory evidence of his good moral character & communion 
in the church, expressed his desire to study Theology under the care of 
this presbytery. After relating the exercise of his mind on the subject 
of experimental religion and his views of duty as to entering on 
the Gospel ministry, he was approved and received under the care of 
presbytery, as a candidate for the Sacred office. 
        Mr. Webster then produced and read a discourse founded on 
Prov: 10. 24. which had been previously assigned him by a senior  
member of presbytery; which discourse was sustained as a part of 
trial. 
        Mr. Nixon read a lecture, founded on 1 Pet: 4.1-7, which 
had been previously assigned to him, as stated above; which lecture 
was approved and sustained as a part of trial previous to licensure. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned to meet 
at this place on Monday morning next at half past seven oclock. 
Athens, Monday morning September 10th. 1821. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
 
 
                                                                        189. 
as above, except Elders Alexander & King. Constituted with prayer. 
        Presbytery proceeded to examine Mr. C. P. Beman on that part of 
the Confession of Faith prescribed to him at our last September sessions; 
which examination was sustained with unanimous approbation. 
        Mr. C. P. Beman was directed to prepare a lecture on Ephes: 1. 
5-8. and a sermon on 1 Tim: 4. 10. as trials previous to licensure to 
be exhibited at our next stated sessions. 
        Mr. Webster was directed to prepare a sermon on Psal: 19.8 & to 
be examined on the first eight chapters of the Confession of Faith, as 
trials previous to licensure to be exhibited at our next stated sessions. 
        Each member was directed to supply two sabbaths at discretion, 
before our next stated sessions. 
        Mr. Nixon was directed to prepare a lecture on James 3. 21-24 
and a sermon on John 1. 29. to be delivered at our next stated sessions. 
        The members, it appears, have fulfilled their appointments. 
        The clerk was directed to make out a Synodical report. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned, to meet at 
Salem Church in Wilkes county on the last Thursday in March next. 
                                        Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                        Moses Waddel, Clerk. 
 
 
190. 
Salem, Wilkes county, Thursday, March 28th 1822.                54th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment and, at 
the request of the Moderator, was opened by the Rev Dr. Waddel, 
with a sermon from Psal: 5. 12. For thou, Lord, will bless the righteous: 
with favor those wilt compass him as with a shield. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders. 
Revd. Francis Cummins, D. D.                                Cunnigham Daniel, of 
        John Brown, D. D.                                        Salem Church, & Joseph 
        Moses Waddel, D. D.                                        Ratchford of Thyatira. 
        Members absent, Rev: Edward, Pharr & Thomas Newton. 
        Rev: Dr. Brown was chosen Moderator, & Dr. Waddel, clerk. Constituted 
with prayer. 
        The minutes of the last stated sessions were read. Presbytery 
then adjourned to meet at this place tomorrow morning at 9 oclock. 
Concluded with prayer. 
Salem, March 29th. 1822. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as 
above. Constituted with prayer. 
        Presbytery then proceeded to examine Mr. Nixon on Systematic 
 
 
                                                                        191. 
Theology; which examination was approved and sustained, as a 
part of trials previous to licensure. 
        Mr. Webster was then examined on these chapters of the 
Confession of Faith, assigned him at our last stated sessions; which 
examination was also approved as very satisfactory & sustained. 
He then read a sermon founded on Psal: 19. 8, the subject assigned 
him at our last stated sessions, as a part of trials; which was 
considered and approved. 
Mr. Nixon delivered a lecture from James 2. 21-24, the subject 
assigned him at our last stated sessions; which was approved &  
sustained as a part of trial previous to licensure. It was then made 
known to presbytery that, by reason of bodily indisposition, Mr. Nixon 
has been unable fully to prepare a sermon on the subject assigned 
him at our last sessions; from which representation, the presbytery 
being will satisfied with all the trials which he had before exhibited 
thought proper to require no further specimens of his competency 
to be licensed as a probationer for the exercise of the gospel ministry. 
The presbytery then called upon Mr. Nixon for a public 
profession of his faith; and he having satisfactorily answered the 
questions appointed to be put to candidates for licensure, did proceed 
 
 
192. 
to license him to preach the everlasting Gospel of Christ, and he 
was licensed accordingly. 
        Mr. Webster was directed to prepare a sermon on John 14. 
27. and an Exegesis on the following theme, viz: An sit peccatum 
ens reale? also, to be examined on the Confession of Faith from the 
9th. to the 16th. chapters, inclusively; which exercises are to be exhibited 
at the next stated sessions of presbytery. 
        On inquiry, it appeared that the members had fulfilled their 
appointments to supply vacancies; and the same order that each 
member should supply two sabbaths before our next sessions was 
continued. 
        A people residing within and near the northern limits of 
Morgan county, through Dr. Cummins, made known their desire to 
be organised and taken under the care of this presbytery by the name 
of                        ; upon which Drs. Brown & Waddel were directed 
each to preach one sabbath to them before our next sessions. 
        The clerk was directed to prepare a presbyterial report and forward 
it to the next General Assembly, if possible. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned to meet at 
Thyatira on Friday, the 24th. day of May next. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                                        193. 
Thyatira, May 24th. 1822.                        55th. Sessions. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment and 
was opened by the Rev: Thomas Goulding, a member of the presbytery 
of Georgia, who was present, with a sermon founded on Psal: 84. 1. 
How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of Hosts. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders 
Rev: Francis Cummins, D. D.                                Joseph Ratchford, of Thyatira. 
        Moses Waddel, D. D. &                        John Kind, of Sandy creek & 
        Edward Pharr.                                        William Hodge. 
        Absentees.        Rev: John Brown, D. D. & Thomas Newton. 
        Constituted with prayer. 
        The Rev. Dr. Cummins was chosen Moderator, & Dr. Waddel, clerk. 
        The Rev. Benjamin Gildersleeve, a member of the presbytery of Georgia, 
 being present, was invited and took a seat as a corresponding member. 
        The Revd. Thomas Goulding, having expressed a desire to become 
a member of this presbytery, produced a certificate of his regular 
dismission from the presbytery of Georgia and of his favourable standing 
in that body; on which he was cordially received and took a  
seat as a member of Hopewell presbytery. 
        The minutes of last stated sessions were then read. 
 
 
194. 
        The stated clerk informed presbytery that he had not forwarded a 
presbyterial report to the General Assembly; having received no documents 
during the two past years, on which to found any certain 
statement as to the state and members of the churches within our 
bounds. Whereupon the following resolution was adopted, viz: 
        Whereas it is the duty of presbyteries to make an annual report 
to the Synod to which they belong, of the number of members in full 
communion in the several churches under their care, which cannot be 
done unless congregational reports be regularly made, therefore, 
        Resolved, That it be strictly enjoined upon the Ruling Elders 
in vacant churches as well as on the ministers who labor in stated 
charges to be prepared to make a faithful report of the number of communing 
members in each congregation within our bounds, in order to be 
exhibited to this presbytery at our next stated sessions. 
        On enquiry it appeared that Dr. Cummins & Mr. Pharr had fulfilled 
their appointments to preach two sabbaths each in vacant congregations. 
Dr. Waddel had also fulfilled his appointments of the same 
kind; but had failed to preach to the vacancy in Morgan county 
as appointed at our last sessions. This failure was owing to the excessive 
depth of the water courses & the unusual fall of rain at the time 
 
 
                                                                        195. 
appointed for his visit to that people. 
        Mr. Webster read an Exegesis on An sit peccatum ens reale? the  
theme assigned him at our last sessions; and also a sermon on John 14. 
27. both of which were sustained as parts of trial. He was then examined 
on eight chapters of the Confession of Faith, from the 9th. to the 16th. inclusive; 
which examination was also sustained. 
        Mr. Orson Douglas, a licentiate of the presbytery of New Brunswick, 
expressed to presbytery a desire to place himself under the care of 
this body; and having produced a certificate of his good standing & a 
recommendation from that presbytery, he was received as a licentiate 
under our care. 
        A call was then presented through presbytery to Mr. Douglas 
from the congregation of Thyatira for one half of his ministerial labors, 
and also from the congregation of Mendham, for one fourth part of his 
labors; which calls were accepted by him; and as the churches desired 
Mr. Douglas to be ordained and installed as their pastor as early 
as possible; with his consent presbytery appointed Tit: 2. 14, as the 
subject a sermon to be delivered by him on tomorrow, as a part of 
trials previous to ordination. 
        Presbytery then adjourned to meet at the house of Mr. Hugh Montgomery, 
 
 
196. 
this evening at six oclock. Concluded with prayer. 
        Mr. Montgomerys 6 oclock. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment, when the same members 
attended as before,  except Mr. Ratchford, who had obtained permission to 
be absent. Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Douglas was examined as to his acquaintance with personal 
and experimental religion, as also concerning his motives in desiring to 
engage in the gospel ministry. On these subject, his examination was 
satisfactory and approved. The presbytery examined him on philosophy, 
Systematic Theology, ecclesiastical history, chronology, & the Greek & Hebrew 
languages; on all which, his answers were approved by the presbytery.  
        Concluded with prayer.        Adjourned, to meet at Thyatira tomorrow 
morning at 9 oclock. 
Thyatira, May 25th. 1822. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. The members present, 
as on yesterday. Constituted with prayer. 
        The Rev. Thomas Newton applied by letter for a dismission from 
this presbytery, in order to attach himself to the presbytery of Alabama: 
Whereupon the stated clerk was directed to forward Mr. Newton a  
certificate of his good standing with us together with a regular dismission 
 
 
                                                                        197. 
from this presbytery, recommending him to the presbytery of 
Alabama. 
        Mr. Harrison was called on for his reasons of absence from our 
last sessions at Salem in Wilkes county, and he rendered such as were 
satisfactory. He also stated that he was unprepared as yet to exhibit on 
the subject assigned him by presbytery as trials previous to ordination, 
but it was his design and expectation to be prepared at our next stated sessions. 
        Mr. Webster was directed to prepare a lecture of Psal: 10. 1-5 & 
a sermon on Rom: 8. 16, to be exhibited at our next sessions; also to be 
pared for examination on the last seventeen chapters of the Confession of 
Faith, as farther parts of trial previous to licensure. 
        Mr. Douglas delivered a discourse on Tit: 2. 14. the subject assigned  
him on yesterday; which was considered and approved as a part of trial 
prior to ordination. 
        An ordination sermon was then preached by the Rev Dr. Cummins 
from Jeb 13: 4.5. After this, Mr. Douglas made a public profession 
of his faith; and having declared his approbation of the government 
and discipline of the presbyterian church in these United States, was 
solemnly set apart to the office of the Gospel ministry by prayer and 
 
 
198. 
the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Having received the 
right hand of fellowship from his senior brethren in the ministry, a suitable 
charge was then delivered to the newly ordained minister and the 
people under his paternal care, and Mr. Douglas was invited to take 
a seat as a member of the presbytery. 
        Each member was directed to supply by preaching two sabbaths 
in vacant congregations before our next meeting. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery than adjourned to meet at 
Hebron church in Franklin county on the third Friday in October next. 
                                        Francis Cummins, Modr. 
                                        Moses Waddel, Stated Clk. 
 
 
Hebron Church, October 18th. 1822. 
        This being the time and place to which the presbytery of Hopewell 
stood adjourned, the Rev. Moses Waddel & Edward Pharr attended. 
A constitutional number of members not being present, presbytery 
was not constituted. Nevertheless public worship was conducted & 
attended on this and the following day by the two ministers and 
people present with suitable solemnity; it which they were assisted 
on the second day by the presence and preaching of the Rev. Hugh 
 
 
                                                                        199. 
Wilson, a missionary from the presbytery of Concord, on his journey to 
the station at Monroe in the Chickasaw nation. On the succeeding 
Lords day, the ordinance of the Lords supper was administered; after 
which, a sermon suitable to the occasion was delivered by the Rev. Mr. 
Wilson, and a collection was made of $31.56[?] in aid of the missionary 
society of South Carolina & Georgia. The solemnities of the day were 
then concluded and the congregation retired.  
 
 
Athens, February 5th. 1823.                                        56th. Session. 
        The presbytery of Hopewell met at this place in the College Chapel, 
agreeably to a regular call of the Moderator, previously published, 
and was opened with a sermon by the Revd. Dr. Cummins, the Moderator 
of our last stated session from 1 Chronicles 29: 13. Now therefore, 
our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. 
Ministers                       present                        Elders. 
Rev: Francis Cummins, D. D.                                        James Nesbit & 
        John Brown, D. D.                                        Thatcher Pharr. 
        Moses Waddel, D. D. 
        Edward Pharr, &                Absent. Rev: Orson Douglas. 
        Thomas Goulding.                Constituted with prayer. 
 
 
200. 
Rev: Dr. Brown was chosen Moderator, & Dr. Waddel, Clerk. 
        The Rev: Dr. William Hill of the presbytery of Winchester, Virginia; 
as also the Rev: Remembrance Chamberlain, of the presbytery of Georgia, 
being present, were invited and took seats as corresponding members. 
        A letter was received by presbytery addressed to the Moderator 
from the Rev: Henry Reid of the presbytery of South Carolina, on behalf 
of the members of the Congregation of Bethel in Lincoln county, 
praying to be permitted to make their congregational reports to the 
presbytery of South Carolina, so long as they continue to enjoy the pastoral 
labors or a member of that presbytery. The consideration of this 
letter was deferred until tomorrow.  
        A letter was received through Dr. Waddel from the Rev. Orson 
Douglas, praying a dissolution of his pastoral connexion with the churches 
of Thyatira & Mendham; and a dismission from this presbytery 
in order to join the presbytery of New Castle: Upon which the presbytery,  
after due deliberation, directed the Rev: Mr. Pharr to announce 
this request of Mr. Douglas to the people of these congregations, 
and require of them to appear, by their representatives, at our 
next sessions and show cause, if any they have, why this petition 
of Mr. Douglas should not be granted. 
 
 
                                                                        201. 
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned to meet at 
the house of Dr. Waddel this evening at six oclock. 
Dr. Waddels, six oclock, P.M. 
        Presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present as above. 
Constituted with prayer. 
        Mr. Webster was examined by the presbytery on the last seventeen 
chapters of the Confession of Faith, and on the subjects of Theology 
in general; which examination, was cordially sustained.  
        Concluded with prayer. Presbytery then adjourned to meet at  
the college chapel tomorrow morning at 9 oclock. 
Athens, Thursday, February 6th. 1823. 
        The presbytery met according to adjournment. Members present 
as above. Constituted with prayer. 
        The minutes of yesterday were read. 
        The consideration of Mr. Reids letter was resumed. On deliberation 
it was Resolved, that Dr. Cummins be directed to answer 
Mr. Reids letter in a manner expressive of the sentiments of the presbytery 
on the subject, viz: That the presbytery are solicitous only that 
the General Assembly be in possession of the number of members under 
their care in any way which may be consistent with the convenience 
 
 
202. 
of congregations and with the practice and discipline of our 
church: but as they are not advised of any important advantage that 
would arise to the church of Bethel from the plan proposed in Mr. 
Reids letter, or of any inconvenience that would result to them from 
reporting through this presbytery, that they recommend the returns of 
the congregation be sent forward to the General Assembly in the usual 
way.  
        Mr. Webster was examine as to his knowledge of the learned 
languages, mathematics, natural and moral philosophy & church history; 
the whole of which examination was sustained. He then delivered 
a lecture on Psal: 10: 1-5, and a sermon on Rom: 8. 16. the subjects assigned 
him as parts of trial previous to licensure; all of which were sustained. 
        Mr. Alexander H. Webster, having adopted the Confession of Faith 
of this church, and satisfactorily answered the questions appointed to be 
put to candidates for licensure, the presbytery did proceed to license 
him to preach the gospel as a probationer for the holy ministry within 
the bounds of this presbytery, or wherever he shall be orderly called. 
Ordered, That each member preach two sabbaths, at discretion, 
to the vacant church within our bounds, before our next stated 
sessions.  
 
 
                                                                        203. 
        The members present furnished congregational reports from the 
following churches, viz: from, 
                Communicants.        Admitted last year.                Baptized. 
Athens, 
Lexington,                20.                        3.                3 adults & 5 infants 
Bethany,                24. 
Siloam,                14 
Alcovia,                13.                        13.                2 adults, 12 infants. 
        The clerk was directed to write to the Rev. John S. Wilson, of the presbytery 
of South Carolina, who resides within our bounds informing him 
of the time and place of our next meeting and inviting him to attend. 
        The Rev: Dr. Cummins was appointed to a commissioner to represent 
this presbytery in the next General Assembly, and Dr. Brown as his 
alternate, with Mr. John Cunnigham of Siloam Church, as Elder. 
        Presbytery concluded with prayer; and then adjourned to meet at 
this place on the first Wednesday in March next. 
                                                John Brown, Modr. 
                                                Moses Waddel, Clerk.