Sketches of North Carolina
Chapter XXXI - Extracts from Minutes of the Synod of the Carolinas from 1502 to 1512 inclusive

SESSION XV.

Bethany Church, Oct. 9th, 1802.

SYNOD was opened by Rev. Leonard Prather, with a sermon from Amos iv., 12th, and Rev. WVilliam C. Davis was chosen moderator. The Presbytery of Orange reported they had received the Rev. Leonard Prather from the Methodist Church, and that they had suspended the Rev. M. Thompson: Presbytery of Concord, that they had dismissed Rev. John Andrews to the Presbytery of West Lexington. Mr. John Matthews, missionary to the Natches, and Mr. Thomas Hall, missionary in the Carolinas and Georgia, read reports of their missionary labors, and for their diligence received the thanks of Synod. The Synod (after an interval of some years) appointed a Commission of Synod to attend to the missionary business, and appointed Hugh Shaw, licentiate of Orange, a missionary to the Natches; and as Mr. Matthews expressed a desire to return, a commission was ordered for him. The Presbytery of Orange was directed also to ordain him for the mission, should he go.

The case from Sinking Spring, Greenville Presbytery, came up again, and after long investigation, was put over till next session it was an intricate but entirely local matter. "'This Synod enjoin it on each Presbytery of which it is composed, to establish within its respective bounds, one or more grammar schools, except where such schools are already established; and that each member of the several Presbyteries make it their business to select and encourage youths of promising piety and talents, and such as may be expected to turn their attention to the ministry of the gospel."

"Overturned: Whether it be proper for this Synod to confer on any one who may be well recommended, a written and formal permission to act in the character of an exhorter? Synod judged it would be improper, as our book of discipline does not authorize Synod to grant such permission."

The Presbytery of Abingdon petitioned Synod to give their consent to an application to the next General Assembly, to annex said Presbytery to the Synod of Virginia. "Resolved, that the prayer of said overture be granted;" in consideration of the difficulties in attending Synod. "As Dr. McCorkle, from a growing indisposition of body, is incapable of transcribing our records with conveniency, ordered that the Rev. John Brown be appointed, and he hereby is appointed, the stated clerk of this Synod."

SESSION XVI.

Buffalo Church, Oct. 6th, 1803.

Synod was opened by Rev. James Hall with a sermon from John vi., 27, and Mr. John Robinson was chosen moderator. The Presbytery of Orange have added by ordination Daniel Brown, Andrew Flinn, Malcolm McNair, Ezekiel B. Currie, and John Matthews ; and the Presbytery of Hopewell, Edward Pharr.

The commission of Synod reported that they had commissioned eight missionaries within the bounds of Synod, one of whom, Wm. C. Davis, was to visit the Catawba Indians. Reports were heard from part of these missionaries. "Ordered that the Rev. Wm. C. Davis act as a stated missionary to the Catawba Indians until our next stated session of Synod; that he superintend the school in that nation, now taught by ,Air. Foster, and that he obtain the assistance of Rev. James Wallis as far as may be convenient. Ordered, that the several Presbyteries under our care be directed to pay particular attention to the subscription business for the support of the missionaries, especially as we now have promising prospect of teaching the Catawba Indians to read and pay some attention to the gospel.

"A petition from the Presbytery of Hopewell was handed in and read, praying the direction of Synod in the case of John Forbes, who made application to that Presbytery to be received as a candidate for the gospel ministry. Time Synod advise the Presbytery of Hopewell to direct their conduct towards Mr. ,Forbes agreeably to the directions of the book of discipline; and recommend to time Presbytery of Orange to act In the same manner towards Mr. Bloodworth and Mr. Maroney, in behalf of whom they made similar applications."

SESSION XVII.

Bullock's Creek church, Oct. 4th., 1804.

Synod was opened by Rev. Samuel Caldwell by a sermon from Proverbs xiv., 12, and Rev. Humphrey Hunter was chosen moderator.

The First Presbytery of South Carolina report Duncan Brown and John Couser, added by ordination ; the Second Presbytery, James Gilleland, jr.; the First Presbytery of South Carolina reported the death of David E. Dunlap; and the Second Presbytery of South Carolina, the dismission of Francis Cuminins to Hopewell Presbytery.

By request of members the Presbytery of Greenville was dissolved; and the Rev. George Newton and Samuel Davies were directed to apply to the Presbytery of Concord for admission; Hezekiah Balch and John Cossan, to the Presbytery of Union; and Stephen Bovelle to the Presbytery of West Lexington, in Kentucky, or any other Presbytery in whose bounds his lot might fall.

A commission of Synod was appointed for this year, to attend to whatever missionary business is left unfinished by Synod. Rev. Daniel Brown and Malcolm McNair were appointed missionaries to the Natches for six months or more; and Mr. M1.irphy, licentiate, was appointed for the lower part of South Carolina.

Overtired—Is it consistent with the government of the Presbyterian church to admit other denominations, as churches, to commune with us, and to receive their preachers without distinction as ministers of the Gospel?" "Answered in the negative; except through the General Assembly."

Overtured—Is a minister's regular acceptance of a call from a congregation absolutely necessary to constitute him the regular pastor of that congregation?" "Answered in the affirmative."

Overtured—How is a fellow Presbyter who preaches these disorganizing doctrines, viz.: that forms of religion ought for the most part to be dispensed with; that tokens are unnecessary; and that it makes no difference whether a man is regularly licensed by any judicatory, and invites such to preach in his pulpit—to be dealt with by his brethren in the ministry?" "Answer—Synod direct our members to our form of government and discipline of our church. The Synod also express their disapprobation of those things alluded to in the overture; and declare their strict adherence to the Confession of Faith and Discipline of our Church; and earnestly recommend to all their members, the propriety, and absolute necessity, of supporting, so far as their influence may extend, the Confession of Faith and Discipline of our Church."

SESSION XVIII.

Bethesda church, Oct. 3d, 1805.

Synod was opened by Rev. John M. W Wilson with a sermon from Deut. xxxii., 29, and Rev. James Wallis was chosen moderator. The first Presbytery of South Carolina reported Murdock Murphy as ordained; the second Presbytery of South Carolina reported Benjamin R. Montgomery, and that they had dismissed Robert Wilson, William Williamson, and James Gilleland, snr., to settle in the State of Ohio; the Presbytery of Concord reported the death of Lewis F. Wilson.

The commission appointed last year laid before Synod the minutes and the reports of missionaries. From this it appeared that the school among the Catawbas had been continued at considerable expense; at first the Indians were much interested in the instructions and exhortations of the teacher, but after a while grew weary; that there had been but little preaching among them. The prospect not flattering. Mr. Smylie made a favorable report of his mission to the Mississippi territory, and presented a letter from a congregation addressed to Synod, asking for further aid.

A commission of Synod was appointed to attend to the missionary concerns of the Synod, to hold their first meeting in New Providence, the first Tuesday of November next.

Rev. Samuel C. Caldwell was directed to write to the Presbyteries of Orange and Union on the subject. of their not being represented in Synod for some time; the Presbytery of Orange since 1802, and the Presbytery of Union since 1799.

Synod being informed that certain persons within their bounds had petitioned the Assembly to receive them into connection by the name of the Presbytery of Charleston, without being in connection with the Synod of the Carolinas, proceeded to draw up a remonstrance to the Assembly against their being received in such circumstances, as unconstitutional, and reflecting on the Synod.

SESSION XIX.

Olney, October 2, 1806.

Synod was opened by Rev. Humphrey Hunter, with a sermon from 2 Tim. iii., 16; and Rev. James Stephenson chosen moderator. The First Presbytery of South Carolina reported George Reid; Orange, James Smylie, as a missionary to the Natches.

The Overture handed in last session respecting a stated clerk, was taken up, and after consideration, "the Synod determined to adopt the measure proposed ; on which the Rev. John B. Davies was chosen to act as stated clerk for Synod. He was directed to transcribe the minutes of our preceding session in a proper book, for which service the Synod determined to allow him the sum of three dollars for each annual session, and the sum of ten dollars yearly from the present term for performing the services specified in the above mentioned overture." (in consequence of this order Mr. Davies transcribed the minutes of the preceding sessions in a large folio, and continued to be the clerk of Synod while it existed. The records, in his handwriting from 1788 to 1813, the time the Synod of the Carolinas existed, cover 422 folio pages, were correctly kept, and written in an uncommonly plain hand.)

Overtured,—That Synod petition the Assembly for a division to form two Synods, one to be known by the name of North Carolina and the other South Carolina.

The commission of Synod reported that they had done nothing a part of them had received a report of a missionary that should have been presented to the preceding Synod.

The Synod appointed three missionaries, Dr. James Hall, Wm. H. Barr, a licentiate of Orange, and Mr. Thomas J. Hall, to itinerate within their bounds.

A letter was addressed to the Presbyteries urging a fuller attendance on Synod, accompanied by a resolution to call absentees to a strict account; and that a letter of citation be addressed to them. Instances were given of great punctuality, such as being present at twenty meetings of Synod out of twenty-one (Dr. James Hall is the person referred to, who commenced attending the Synod of New York and Philadelphia).

Overtured,—That this Synod give their opinion respecting the propriety of ministers of the gospel accepting and holding civil offices, which divert their attention from their ministerial duty, and bring reproach on the sacred ministry; and as this Synod do highly disapprove of such conduct, Resolved, That those Presbyteries where such instances are to be found, adopt the most effectual measures to induce such ministers to lay aside such offices, and devote themselves wholly to their ministerial duties. And if the Presbyteries should meet with any difficulties in dealing with such members, they are required to apply to the General Assembly for instructions in such case."

"Resolved, That Synod publish 1000 copies of the following pamphlets, viz. the Rev. John Andrews's pamphlet, entitled A Brief Essay on Natural and Moral Inability, and two pamphlets written by the Rev. John P. Campbell in reply to Mr. Stone."

SESSION XX.

Rocky River, Oct. 1st, 1807.

Synod was opened by Rev. James W. Stephenson with a sermon from Micah ii., 3, last clause; and Moses Waddel was chosen moderator. Added to Presbytery of Concord, Thomas J. Hall and Andrew S. Morrison; second Presbytery of South Carolina, Daniel Gray; Presbytery of Union, Isaac Anderson, Charles Coffin, Matthew Donnell, and Joseph D. Lapsley.

A memorial from the Second Presbytery of South Carolina was read, complaining that. the First Presbytery of South Carolina does not discipline a member of theirs, Wm. C. Davis, for preaching erroneous doctrine, though known by Presbytery to hold and preach such doctrine. "To give a complete list of the doctrines we have in view, even as far as they are known to us, we think would be quite unnecessary in this communication. It may, however, be proper to mention, that Mr. Davis affirms and industriously propagates, that what has been termed the passive obedience of Christ is all that the law of God can, or does require, in order to the justification of the believer ; and that his active obedience is not imputed. He also affirms and teaches that faith precedes regeneration, and is not a holy exercise, nor has anything holy in its nature. * * * * Now, although neither we nor the Presbytery to which he belongs can prevent Mr. Davis from believing Whatever he may think proper, yet we deem it somewhat more than indecorous that any member in our communion should be allowed intentionally to teach doctrines manifestly contrary to that system we are supposed to believe and preach."

Synod after consideration directed the First Presbytery of South Carolina to attend to this matter "as duty and discipline may direct."

The Presbytery of Union applied for leave to apply to the General Assembly to be connected with the Synod of Virginia: Synod, satisfied that the Presbytery were unanimous in the application, granted the request.

Dr. Hall made report of his missionary services ; also Mr. Thos. Hall, and Mr. William H. Barr. Their reports were entered on record, exhibiting great industry and much labor. A committee of missions was appointed for the ensuing year, of whom Dr. Hall was to be moderator, to hold their first meeting at Steele Creek church on the third Wednesday of November.

"Ordered, that the Synod send up to the General Assembly the following question:—Whether elders from vacant congregations have the same constitutional right to a seat in Synod which they have in Presbytery?"

The missionaries this year refer to a state of things in their route, which had called the attention of the missionaries in former years, and is perhaps best expressed in the report of Dr. Hall for this year:—"Approaching the low country (in South Carolina), the professors of religion became less, and the bigoted attachment to party doctrines appeared to be stronger. These doctrines, which they call their principles, are so frequently brought into the pulpit, that sometimes a private member of one of those denominations, when he goes to hear a preacher of the other, expecting what will come forward, has his scriptural notes prepared, and reads them against the doctrines delivered : on which issue is joined, and the doctrines are debated in the presence of the congregation. From these, and other circumstances, it appears that few attend on the preaching of the gospel except the bigoted adherents to their respective parties."

SESSION XXI.

Sugaw Creek church, Oct. 6th, 1808.

Synod was opened by Rev. Benjamin R. Montgomery, with, a sermon on Heb. ii., 3, first clause; and the Rev. John M. Wilson was chosen moderator. Presbytery of Orange report W. L. Turner from Virginia, and James K. Burch ; and that they had suspended Leonard Prather from the office of minister of the gospel. The Second Presbytery of South Carolina reported, "lost by death, Rev. John Simpson, and Dr. Thomas Williamson, a licentiate."

The commission of Synod reported, that they had met and appointed Dr. Hall, Rev. E. B. Currie, and Mr. Wm. H. Barr, missionaries in their bounds during part of the past year. The missionaries were called on; Mr. Currie had not received a commission. The others read long and interesting reports, of one of which the Synod made the following minute, viz.—"The Rev. Dr. Hall read a report, in which he gave a particular account of the state of that part of the country where he travelled, and stated that lie thought it would be more advisable to cherish our own vacancies, than to attempt to establish new societies in these bounds and particularly recommended vigorous exertions on the part of Synod, to encourage the education of young men for the gospel ministry, lie further stated, that he travelled, during his mission, 1132 miles, and preached forty times, and received $64,68." Mr. Barr united with Dr. Hall, respecting the change of missionary action from the itinerant, to the supplying our vacancies with more regular preaching. The Synod passed a vote of thanks to both these laborious men. In urging the cause of education, Dr. Hall says—"Otherwise, our churches, if any should remain, must be supplied with ignorant and illiterate preachers, or they must receive foreigners, which past experience has for the most part shown not to be very eligible; as we may expect little besides the dregs of European churches. Should none of these be the case, our people must sink into ignorance and barbarism, and stand exposed to every erroneous wind of doctrine." Mr. Barr appears to have been a most devoted missionary.

A. commission of Synod was appointed, "to regulate the whole of the missionary business, to meet the first Wednesday of November, at Unity Church, Indian Lands, of which Dr. Hall was appointed moderator."

The First Presbytery of South Carolina being called on to report their doings respecting Rev. W. C. Davis, on the complaint handed in to last Synod, reported that after hearing Mr. Davis's explanations they had not done anything; and put the following question, viz. " Whether the holding and propagating any, and wheat doctrines, apparently repugnant. to the letter of the confession of faith, will justify a Presbytery in calling a number to public trial?" The Synod, not satisfied with this report, appointed a committee consisting of Rev. James Hall and General Andrew Pickens, of Second Presbytery, South Carolina, to propose a minute to direct the Presbytery in its future proceedings. This committee brought in a minute winch was amended and adopted, of which the following is all that is important, viz. "Resolved, that the Second Presbytery of South Carolina be directed to meet immediately on this ground, and if they have any charges to state against Mr. Davis, that they be immediately exhibited according to the discipline of our church, before the First Presbytery of South Carolina, together with the names of the witnesses, should they deem it necessary to call witnesses in the case. And that the foregoing purposes may be answered, the First Presbytery= of South Carolina is directed to constitute immediately to receive such charge as the Second Presbytery may think dutiful to lay before them : and to furnish Mr. Davis with a copy of the charge, together with the names of the witnesses. That the Synod direct the moderator of tic First Presbytery of South Carolina to call an occasional meeting on the third Wednesday of November next, to confer with lr. Davis on the doctrines specified in the memorial of the Second Presbytery of South Carolina, and such other doctrines as may be thought by them advisable. And that they take a record of all the questions put to Mr. Davis, particularly relative to these matters, together with his answers, that all concerned may have the fullest information and satisfaction that the nature of the case allows."

Overture.—"Should the qualifications of parents offering their children for baptism be the same as would entitle them to the 'Lord's Supper? Answered in the affirmative."

"The committee appointed to draught a minute on the subject of intercourse and communion with the Methodist church, introduced one which was amended and adopted, and is as follows, viz.: Whereas, the Methodist church embraces doctrines that we are far from considering orthodox, and as they are in the habit of insinuating that Presbyterian ministers are mercenary in their calling,—of speaking disrespectfully of our church, and endeavoring to withdraw members from our communion; therefore, to avoid all feuds, animosities and contentions with that people, the Synod recommend that all unnecessary intercourse with them be avoided,—that our brethren in the ministry be careful to teach all the doctrines of our holy religion as contained in our Confession of Faith and Catechism; and at particular times, when prudence and duty may direct, to explain and establish those doctrines, which we believe the church alluded to has misunderstood, if not perverted."

"The Synod do highly disapprove of holding communion with the Methodist church, as a church; but in certain cases occasional communion may be permitted. And we recommend that in those cases in which communion may be requested, that our ministers deal with such applicants, as with those who may make application for the first time, within our church. We also recommend that members of our own church, who, without time approbation of the session, invite Methodist preachers to preach in our congregations, and who assiduously endeavor to gain proselytes to the Methodist church, be dealt with by their respective sessions as disorderly."

"And we finally recommend that the several Presbyteries under our care be particularly careful to furnish their vacancies with the means of information upon the peculiar doctrines of our holy religion, by disseminating amongst them catechisms, and other orthodox books, and by frequently granting them such supplies as may be in their power."

"The following dissent was tabled, viz.: We, whose names are underwritten, beg leave to dissent from the decision of Synod on the above case, for the following reason; that the Methodist Church is alone implicated, when it is known that the ministers of other denominations have made impositions on congregations belonging to our church; and request that this our dissent be entered on the minutes of Synod."

JAMES HALL,
J. D. KILPATRICK.

SESSION XXII.

Poplar Tent, Oct. 5th, 1809.

Synod was opened by Rev. John M. Wilson, with a sermon from Acts xx., 24; and the Rev. Robert B. Walker was chosen moderator. The Presbytery of Orange reported John McIntyre, and that the suspension had been removed from Leonard Prather; the first Presbytery, South Carolina, reported the death of Joseph Alexander, D.D.

At the close of the last session, provision was made for the calling an extraordinary meeting; the moderator of the last session informed Synod that lie had directed the moderators of the several Presbyteries to issue citations to their respective members, to attend at Steele Creek on the first Tuesday of March, 1809 but high waters prevented a meeting.

The commission of Synod reported that they had commissioned Dr. Hall and Rev. Andrew Flinn, to act as missionaries in the vacancies in the bounds of Synod; Mr. FLinn did not act, but Dr. Hull had performed service. His report was read to Synod. He was absent four months and thirteen days, preached sixty-nine times, held three communions amid several evening societies, and travelled 1545 miles. The following are extracts from his report:

Previously to his departure from home, he had extracted four hundred and twenty questions from our Confession of Faith, which embraced the most important doctrines contained in that system, and disseminated them through eight of our vacancies, for the perusal of the people until lie should return to finish his mission, at which time they were to be called upon for public examination." The success attending this effort, he reports as having been very encouraging. The following extract refers to the exercises which had prevailed estensively beyond the Catawba among the congregations he visited, viz.

"For the satisfaction of Synod and others to whom this report may conic, your missionary begs indulgence in being somewhat particular in the case of Knobb Creek congregation. He visited them with much pleasure, and spent some considerable time among them, both in November and April. Some of the most intelligent and apparently pious of them, told him that since they have come to look back and reason on their past extravagant views, feelings, and exercises, they are filled with horror as to themselves, and gratitude to Cod, that they were not given over to the most wild and delusive fanaticism; that when they hear or read of the horrid and extravagant conduct of the Shakers in the Western States, they are filled with horror at their former situation, as it now appears to them that if those people had then come among them, they seemed prepared to run with them into all their extravagance and enthusiasm. The following account your missionary had from one of their members, who formerly did, and still does sustain an eminently pious character. When I fell into those extraordinary exercises I found such pleasure in them that I would not think of parting with them; yet when they were off, I found the power of religion so declining in my heart, that I was conscious that in that state I never need expect to enter the kingdom of heaven; and they have cost me many sleepless hours in prayer and wrestling- with my own wretched heart, before I could give them up.' Let none, however, from this statement, take occasion to think unfavourably or even lightly, of those deep and heart-affecting exercises, both distressful and joyous, to which no doubt we have all been witnesses, and many of which, if we judge by their fruits, we have reason to believe, were produced by the powerful operations of the Holy Spirit, by which, from an overwhelming sense of olivine things, those effects Were produced on the body; as the exercises of the above society respected not only their spiritual but also their temporal affairs, managing their farms, assisting each other in daily labor, and especially the marriage of young people one with another.

"An elder of that congregation whom your missionary and other members of Synod had for many years known to be a man of established religious character, had removed to Tennessee, being then under suspension with many others, by Presbytery, for adhering to those extravagances, and who returned on business when your missionary was in that neighborhood. He told him that he had steadfastly adhered to his former system; was filled with the deepest prejudices against Presbytery; was highly disgusted with his fellow members when he heard that they had submitted to the requisitions of Presbytery, as it appeared to him like giving up the cause of God, until the then last preceding August; without any human means, or anything but what he must ascribe to the sovereign mercy and grace of God, his eyes were opened to see the absurdity of his conduct, especially that of spurning at the government of the church, and of private members attempting to administer the sealing ordinances of the gospel.

And your missionary was a witness to his ample and solemn acknowledgment of his error, and to an admonition which he received before the session of Knobb Creek, in conformity to the judgment of Presbytery; which admonition he received not only with suitable humility, but expressions of gratitude and thankfulness in being fully restored to the communion of the church. The above example appeared to be the prevailing disposition of the society, except a few individuals, who seemed to retain a smack of their former principles; but without the least appearance in their conduct. Those were so inconsiderable, that they had no influence in the society,"

In conclusion, lie pressed the subject of an educated ministry, pleading the necessities of the church as reasons for great activity in raising up a proper ministry.

In order the better to understand this report, it may be observed that, in the year 1801, the Presbytery of Orange appointed Rev. Messrs. S. C. Caldwell, John M. Wilson, Humphrey Hunter, and elders, Messrs. John McKnitt Alexander, Thomas Harris, Jacob Alexander, Isaac Alexander, Hugh Parks, and Robert Stephenson, a committee to visit Long Creek, and take up the irregularities of Long Creek and Knobb Creek, on the subject of religion.

They performed the duty assigned; and upon inquiry found that some of the laymen laid claim to special divine guidance, and had administered the ordinances of the Supper and of Baptism, being moved, as they said, by a divine impulse. For these and other irregularities many were suspended from the privileges of the church.

The case of Rev. Wm. C. Davis before the First Presbytery of South Carolina came up. Upon inspecting the records of the Presbytery it appeared that the Second Presbytery had tabled charges against Mr. Davis, but did not appear to prosecute at the time fixed to meet Mr. Davis. That the First Presbytery heard Mr. Davis, and pronounced sentence. The charges were,—" 1st, He affirms and industriously propagates that what has been termed the passive obedience of Christ is all that the law of God can, or does require in order to justification of the believer, and that his active obedience is not imputed."

"2d. He also affirms and teaches that saving faith precedes regeneration, and has nothing holy in its nature, as to its first act.

"3d. That the Divine Being is bound by his own law, or, in other words, by the moral law.

"4th. That Adam was never bound to keep the moral law, as the Federal Head or Representative of his posterity; or, in other words, that the moral law made no part of the conditions of the covenant of works."

Mr. Davis admitted the charges, and explained them: That Christ's active righteousness gave efficiency to the atonement, but was not imputed :—that the first act of faith was before regeneration, and of consequence not holy, though acts of faith afterwards might be holy:—that the moral law was the standard of perfection and holiness, and so applied to God without derogation:—that, though the moral law had an immediate consequential connection with the condition of the covenant, either as to the keeping or breaking said covenant, yet it is not the guilt of transgressing the moral law that is imputed to Adam's posterity, but only the guilt of eating the forbidden fruit."

The Presbytery condemned the tenets as contrary to the Confession, and unsound; but, on the score of liberty of opinion and latitude of expression, did not condemn Mr. Davis for holding them as worthy of any church censure, though they considered him guilty and in some degree censurable, for his imprudence in expressing himself.

The Synod was dissatisfied with this course, as by no means coming up to their directions of last year, or the exigencies of the case; took up the matter, and were proceeding to investigation and trial for decision, having by vote determined they had a right so to do, when Mr. Davis protested, and appealed to the Assembly. The Synod finally remitted the case to the Assembly; and also an overture respecting the book Mr. Davis had published, denominated the Gospel Plan, in which his sentiments were expressed at large.

On request, the Synod constituted a Presbytery out of the territory of three others, to be known by the name of Harmnony, to consist of the following members:—Rev. George McWhorter, Andrew Flinn, and John Couser, of the First Presbytery of South Carolina; John R. Thompson, of Hopewell Presbytery; to meet for the first time in the city of Charleston, on the first Wednesday of March, 1810, and that Rev. Andrew Flinn, or the senior member present, preside and open the Presbytery.

Synod appointed a committee, consisting of Rev. James Me1cc, Samuel C. Caldwell, John Robinson, and John M. Wilson, to meet at Poplar Tent, the second Wednesday in November, to prepare a pastoral letter for the churches, warning them against the errors propagated by Mr. Davis; and that they commit the letter, when prepared, to Dr. Waddel, to superintend the printing and circulation, in proper proportion, among the Presbyteries.

SESSION XXIII.

Fair Forest, Oct. 4th, 1810.

Synod was opened by Rev. Robert B. Walker, with a sermon from 2d Corinth. iv., 7; and Rev. Samuel Stanford was chosen moderator. Second Presbytery of South Carolina reported Wm. H. Barr; the Presbytery of Orange, that they had dismissed John Gillespie to the Presbytery of Pransylvania, and James K. Burch to Presbytery of Philadelphia; and had received Wm. McPheeters from Presbytery of Lexington, Va., and had licensed Benjamin R. Rice.

The resolutions and decision of the General Assembly, in the case of Wm. C. Davis, referred to them at the last Session of Synod, were read. After various propositions, and much consultation, it was resolved that the First Presbytery of South Carolina be dissolved, and the members be annexed as follows:—Rev. W. C Davis, pastor of Bullock's Crock; Robert B. Walker of Bethesda; John B. Davies of Fishing Creek and Richardson; Thomas Necley of Purity and Edmonds ; with George Reid. without a charge; and the vacancies of Waxhaw, Unity, Bethel, Hopewell, Beersheba, Yorkville, Shiloh, and Salem, be, and hereby are, joined to the Presbytery of Concord; and that Rev. Robert McCullock and John Foster, without charges; SamueI H. Yongue of Lebanon and Mount Olivet, with the vacancies of Concord. Horeb, Sion, Aimwell, Catholic, Beaver Creek, and Hanging Creek, be, and hereby are, joined to the Presbytery of Harmony." The name of the Second Presbytery of South Carolina was changed to Presbytery of South Carolina.

Overtured, Are lotteries even for religious purposes, such as building churches, &c., consistent with the morality of the gospel?" referred to the Assembly.

Dr. Hall read his report of missionary service at great length. His first tour commenced October., 25, 1809, and ended December 14th. After his return from the General Assembly, to which he was a delegate, lie commenced his tour again on the 16th of June, 1810. Of this tour, the following extracts are the most important, and of abiding interest. (He carne in contact with two characters who must be noticed.) his tour was among the Scotch between the Cape Fear and Pedec Rivers.

Extracts from the Report.

"Mr. Lindsay, whose name has been mentioned above, and Mr. McDiarmid, still continue to preach and administer sealing ordinances, although they have been both deposed, many years since, from the ministry of the gospel, by the Presbytery of Orange. They command influence over thousands of their countrymen from Scotland; although common fame says they persevere in habits of intemperance in the use of ardent spirits. Mr. Lindsay's adherents acknowledge as to him, and Mr. McDiarmid's say he only takes a refreshment. This is said to be the frequent practice of both; that they and their parishioners, after worship, even on Sabbath evenings, repair to a house where spirits are sold, and spend the evening in drinking, and sometimes deal out such hard blows to each other, that not long since some of them were adjudged by court to pay $40 each, on one of these occasions.

"Your missionary visited both the above preachers at their own houses, and conversed largely with them in presence of some of their people. Mr. L. complained much to him of the conduct of the Presbytery in his case. He was asked why he did not appeal to Synod. He said there he was in an error. He was informed that, although the time limited for appealing was long since elapsed, yet, perhaps, he might still have a hearing. To this he replied, that he understood we were all of one sort. And being asked what sort was that, he replied, it was friends to the new religion; and that for not falling in with that, he had been deposed from the ministry. In short, he seemed to have no relish for conversation on any of those subjects, and endeavored, by every possible means, to turn the current of conversation into some different channel.

"Mr. McD. was much more pliant, and professed a strong desire to be united to the Presbytery. This also appeared to be the desire of many of his people. Your missionary had three different conversations with him, the last of which was at his own house, in presence of two elders, and a respectable Scotch merchant from Fayetteville. He seemed all submission, and requested your missionary, as did also the above gentleman, to write to Presbytery on the subject, which he did, and delivered the letter to Mr. McD. The company were then called to dinner; but before we arose, Mr. McD. exhibited evident marks of intoxication. To proceed on fair ground, your missionary inquired privately at all the above gentlemen, who were all of the same opinion. The letter lay in an accessible place, from which your missionary took it up and asked Mr. McD.'s pardon for recalling it. He was asked the reason by Mr. McD., and lie was pointedly told it was because he had meddled too freely with ardent spirits. He fell into a violent passion and ran out of the house. The gentleman from Fayetteville followed and pacified him so as to return. Your missionary and the elders then bade him good bye, and withdrew without further ceremony."

(The next day, Sabbath, he read the letter to the people explained the circumstances and exhorted them to examine their case; and appealed to the elders who were now there for the truth of his statements. On leaving the place some said, "we have heard the truth to-day;" others said—"few would have dared to say that.")

"Mr M'Intyre, whose people live in a blended state with those of Mr. L., is gaining considerable ground on the latter. This need not be thought strange, considering the striking contrast between the characters of the men. Many families have lately come over to Mr. M'Intyre; and frequently young people of families who adhere to Mr. L. are taken with convictions under Mr. ,M'I's preaching. In this case some are afraid to go home, for fear of the lash ; and your missionary has seen young people in a state of banishment from their father's house on account of their attachment to religion. In short, the state of both the aged and young who are under the influence of those two men baffles description nor would such particular history of their and their people's case have been given, were it not to attract the attention of Synod to that unhappy and deluded people. And their unhappiness does not arise only from the examples set before them; but their teachers are said to be industrious in propagating falsehoods among them, to prejudice them against our Clergy;—asserting that we have cast off the Westminster Confession of Faith, and have made one of our own; that we are all become Methodists, and have departed from the principles of Presbyterianism, and that there is not now a Presbyterian minister in the United States except themselves, &c. &c. In a particular manner they attempt to prepossess the minds of their adherents against the young Scotch ministers in those parts, representing them as ignorant, illiterate blockheads, &c., although the fruits of their labors manifest that they are able and successful ministers of the New Testament. And it appears to have been a wise and happy dispensation of Providence for that part of the State, that such a set of young men were raised up and qualified to preach the gospel immediately before the commencement of the revival; especially as they were able to preach in both the English and Gaelic languages. Wherever they have been placed the revival has predominated under their ministry. And notwithstanding the many thousands of miles your missionary has travelled during the last ten years, he has not been in any place where religion has flourished more, nor the power of it kept up with more energy than under their ministrations."

"There have been what may be called miracles of grace among Mr. L.'s adherents. An elder of Mr. L.'s, about 50 years old, had been an early subject of the revival, and became a zealous professor of religion; but on that account was so persecuted by his neighbors, his wife, and especially Mr. L., his situation became so insupportable to him that lie went about forty miles from where he lived and bought a plantation, on which he improved and raised two crops before his family, which lie occasionally visited, would remove with him."

His wife was strongly attached to Mr. L., and consequently bitterly prejudiced against the young Scotch clergy, and all others who were friendly to the revival, until last summer, it pleased God, when your missionary was in these parts, to show her in what a lost state she was on account of sin. This was unknown to him until his last winter's tour to that place, at which time he visited her at her own house. She appeared then to be under deep and rational conviction of sin; and although she was an intelligent woman, and well instructed in the doctrines of the Christian religion, yet it appeared to him he never conversed with a person more anxious to obtain religious instruction than she was at that time. Not long afterwards she professed to obtain the comforts of religion ; and your missionary can better conceive than express his sensations of mind in meeting with her and her husband in his visit to that place last July. She nearly in an ecstasy, and he bursting into tears of gratitude and joy on account of what Cod had done for his aged companion. During public worship, where your missionary frequently saw her, she was almost constantly under bodily agitation lifting up her hands, and it is believed her heart, in devotional exercises. As that •gave umbrage to some aged professors, and especially to Mr. L.'s people, your missionary spoke privately to her on the subject, and she declared to him that she could not prevent it, and at that instant became agitated through her whole frame, as soon as the subject was mentioned to her. And to whomsoever these lines may come, the writer begs leave to be indulged in making these remarks,—that however some may be thus affected by bodily agitations, by all undue indulgence, and perhaps some may be so presumptuous as to feign them, yet from the above, and many other similar examples, he is well assured that in many cases the subjects of them may as easily suppress their vital breath and support natural life, as under certain states of mind to suppress such bodily emotions ; although at the same time, if it were the divine will that the same state of mind could be exercised, and their outward appearances prevented, it Would be more agreeable to him, especially during public worship."

Resolved, That Dr. I fall be requested to publish in the `Star' his missionary report, or such parts of it as he may deem suitable for publication."

The Presbytery of Orange overtured Synod for an order to ordain Mr. Joseph Caldwell, of the University; and the Synod, in consideration of the prospect of increased usefulness, authorized the ordination.

SESSION XXIV

Fourth Creek church, Oct.8th, 1811.

Synod was opened by Samuel Stanford with a sermon from 2 Chron. xviii., IS; and Rev. James 111'Flhenny was chosen moderator. The Presbytery of Orange report, Wm. B. Merony and Joseph Caldwell. " The Presbytery of Concord laid before the Synod their proceedings in the case of the Rev. William C. Davis, and requested their advice whether or not the way of Presbytery be fully open to proceed to deposition in said case. Whereupon, after fully attending to the proceedings of the Presbytery of Concord, Synod did, and hereby do, express the opinion that the way is entirely open to proceed to the last step of discipline in the case of the said Wm. C. Davis."

The Committee of Missions reported that they had employed Dr. Hall for four months, two east of Yadkin, in North Carolina, and two west of Ocony River, Georgia. Mr. Hall read his report, which was highly acceptable.

"Presbytery of Orange report that on the 3d day of April, 1811, they suspended Rev. Wm. C. Davis from the exercises of his functions as a minister of the gospel; and on the 4th day of October deposed him from the office of the ministry of the everlasting gospel also that they have dismissed the Rev. Samuel Morrison to join the Presbytery of West Tennessee; and that they have on the 21st (lay of January, 1811, lost, by death, the Rev. Dr. Samuel E. MI'Corkle; late pastor of the church of Thyatira."

"Overturned, that this Synod do resign the missionary business to which they have hitherto attended into the hands of the General Assembly, to be conducted by them for time to come; and that it will be the duty of our Presbyteries, from time to time, to inform the assembly where missionary labors appear to be wanted, and what missionaries they may have in their power to furnish. But in the meantime that Synod conduct this business as they have hitherto done till our next session. Ordered, that this overture be sent up to the General Assembly."

The Commission of Missions was appointed as usual.

Upon examining the records of the Presbytery of Harmony it appeared that Rev. Ezra Fisk had been ordained sine titulo; to this the Synod objected; "and do therefore recommend that the several Presbyteries under our care be cautious not to violate the discipline of our church in this respect." Resolved also, "that inasmuch as the said Presbytery have declared, that it is altogether inexpedient to consult the Synod in this case, as has been usual in similar cases, and that the right of ordination, in all cases, is originally inherent in Presbytery, and has never been formally surrendered to the higher judications of the church.—Synod cannot but disclaim such a principle, as having never been granted by our discipline."

"The Synod enjoined on the several members of this Synod to use every prudent and dutiful measure in their power to procure and disseminate Confessions of Faith and Catechisms amongst the congregations under our care, and to report their attention and success at our next meeting."

An overture was sent to the Assembly calling attention to the fact, whether the book of discipline was sufficiently explicit about restoring penitent offenders, and also respecting the baptism of Adults.

SESSION, XXV.

New Providence, Oct. 5th, 1812.

Synod was opened by Rev. George Reid with a sermon from John v., 34 ; and Rev. James Hall, D.D., was chosen moderator.

The Presbytery of Harmony reported that they had received Robert M'Culloch, Samuel Yongue, John Foster, and Murdock Murphy, had ordained and installed Colin 1'Iver, and ordaiued Aaron W. Leland sine titulo. The names of Henry Kolluck, D.D., and John Boggs, also appear for the first time among the members of Harmony Presbytery.

The Commission of Synod reported that Dr. Hall had been commissioned for three months to Georgia; and they could have employed three more missionaries had the funds been sufficient. Dr. Hall read his report, which was highly acceptable; during four months and sixteen days he had travelled 1485 miles, and preached 58 sermons.

On inquiry, it appeared that very general attention had been paid to the order of Synod last year respecting the circulation of the Confession of Faith and Catechisms. The order was renewed.

It appearing that the General Assembly had accepted the management of the missionary business in the bounds of Synod: ordered, "that it he enjoined on the members under the care of Synod to use every means in their power to aid the General Assembly in supporting the missionary and contingent funds.

Resolved, that time following members of the Presbytery of Orange be set of to form a Presbytery to be known as the Presbytery of Fayetteville, viz. Rev. Samuel Stanford, Robert Tate, William L. Turner, Malcolm McNair, Murdock McMillan, John McIntyre, William B. Merony, Allan McDougald, and William Peacock; to meet in Fayetteville on the first Tuesday of April next; and Rev. Samuel Stanford, or in his absence the senior minister, to preach and preside till a moderator be chosen.

The Presbytery of Harmony having proceeded to ordain another person sine titulo, notwithstanding the order of last Synod, the matter was taken up, and a member, Mr. Couser, announcing that he had received a letter from the moderator of the last assembly, stating that the assembly were dissatisfied with the proceedings of this Synod, and forbore to announce their dissatisfaction, only in the hope that Synod and Presbytery would compromise the matter; the Rev. James Wallis, John M. Wilson, and Joseph Caldwell, were appointed a committee to bring in a report.

The committee reported at great length ; the substance of which is as follows, viz. That ordination sine titulo was contrary to the usages of the church of Scotland, "without permission expressly granted by a superior judicatory;" that some twenty years ago the Presbytery of Orange refused so to ordain till they obtained leave of Synod; and in 1810 (when Mr. Wilson was member of assembly) the committee of overtures of the assembly, before whom Mr. Wilson appeared, expressed themselves in favor of the rule—"that ordination sine titulo ought not to take place without application to Synod, or to the General Assembly, and express authority obtained from them;" that when the subject had been sent clown to the Presbyteries, after a long deliberation (several years), only eighteen Presbyters reported, of whom seven were for investing the assembly with original power, and eleven against it: and, that this Synod consulting—"the history of the church, the book of discipline and satisfactory impressions of our own minds," came to the conclusion "that Presbyteries were not entitled to the power which the Presbytery of Harmony had exercised."

The committee referred to the minutes of the assembly for 1795, for the following record, viz.: "the following request was overturned, that the Synods of Virginia and the Carolinas have liberty to direct their Presbyteries to ordain such candidates as they may judge necessary to appoint, on missions to preach the gospel; whereupon, resolved, that the above request be granted, the Synods being careful to restrict the permission to the ordination of such candidates only as are engaged to be sent on missions."

Without discussing the expediency or disadvantage of ordaining sine titulo, the committee said that on consulting the oldest and most experienced of Synod, they find that it has been the unvarying impression that the practice the Synod have been endeavoring to maintain, is the constitution which has been received by the church. The committee referred to the book of discipline for support of their construction, and concluded by recommending that the minute of last Synod be not repealed. In this the Synod "cordially" concurred.

Overtured, that request be made to the next assembly for division of this Synod; the reasons offered were the number of members, and the distance they were compelled to travel to Synod. "That the Presbyteries of Orange, Concord, and Fayetteville, be constituted a Synod to be known by the name of Synod of NORTH CAROLINA; to meet at Alamance Church on the first Thursday of October next (1813); that the Rev. Dr. James Hall, the present moderator, or, in case of his absence, the senior member present, open Synod with a sermon, and preside until a new moderator be chosen."

"That the Presbyteries of South Carolina, Hopewell, and Harmony, be constituted a Synod to be known by the name of the Synod of SOUTH CAROLINA AND GEORGIA: to meet on the first Thursday in November, in the year 1813, at Upper Long Cane Church, and afterwards, on their own adjournments. That the Rev. Dr. Henry Kolluck, or in case of his absence, the senior minister present, preach the opening sermon ; and preside until a moderator be chosen."

Synod adjourned sine die, concluded with prayer.

JAMES HALL, Moderator.

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