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RELIGIOUS INTELLIGENCE.

AMERICA.

The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, at their Annual Sessions in May, are in the practice of receiving accounts of the state of Religion from the members, representing the various parts of their ecclesiastical jurisdiction, and of condensing and publishing these accounts in the form of a Report. The following is their Report for May last.

THE Assembly have heard with pleasure, accounts from the east and west, the north and south, proclaiming the triumphs of the Redeemer, in the extension and prosperity of his kingdom in our country.

The Assembly have received an impression of the most pleasing kind from the intelligence that there is, in almost every quarter, a general, and in some parts of our church, an increased attention to the public worship of God: that there exists a spirit of inquiry in regard to religious truth, and a more general conviction that the power of godliness is necessary to stamp value on its form.

Associations for prayer and reading the holy Scriptures, have, it appears, been the means frequently blessed by God, to preserve the very existence of religion in places destitute of the preaching of the gospel, and the full administration of its ordinances. Such associations have happily prepared the people for the labours of the pious missionary, who thus came upon ground, as it were, already broken up, and profitably scattered the good seed of the word.

The Assembly have also heard with great satisfaction, that the catechising of children and others, has, in certain parts of our church, been practised with more than ordinary care, and with that desirable success which may ever be expected to follow a suitable regard to this most important duty.

With heartfelt pleasure the Assembly bear testimony to the charitable exertions made by some of their churches for the relief of the poor, and for the maintenance of the holy ministry. They rejoice to find that the ordinances of the gospel are, in

general, attended with punctuality and earnestness. They regret, however, that in some particulars, they are compelled to use the language of reprehension. It is with pain they observe it to be the practice of too many, in some of their churches, to attend divine service only on one part of the day, to the neglect or contempt of the remaining part. Against this practice, so injurious to the spiritual interests of their people; so entirely inconsistent with the Christian character and privileges, they think it no more than their duty solemnly to protest. And they do most affectionately beseech ail who are conscious of delinquency in this respect, no longer to withhold from God any portion of that time which he hath specially consecrated to his own service.

We live at a time when it becomes a duty peculiarly incumbent, to "contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints." It will, however, be remembered, that the sacred, cause of truth can never be promoted by angry controversy, or railing accusation. It is, therefore, recommended to the churches, to vindicate the truth, not only by sound and temperate discussion, but also and especially, by the manifestation of its sanctifying and transforming power over the life and conversation; and by evincing, that "the like mind is in us which was in Christ Jesus our Lord."

It should ever be recollected, that error in doctrine hath a native tendency to produce immorality in practice: and, therefore, that we should not be carried about by every wind of doc trine. Let us prove all things, and hold fast that which is good. This Caution, it is hoped, will be received with attention and solemnity, inasmuch as the church has been of late invaded by errors which strike at the very foundation of our faith and hope; such as the denial of the Godhead, and atonement of the blessed Redeemer, the subjection of holy Scripture to the most extrava a t impulses of the heart of man. These and other errors of a dangerous nature, have been industriously, and, alas! the Assembly should be constrained to add, in some portions of our country, too successfully disseminated!

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It is believed that, in the revivals of late years, many have been added to the church of such as shall be saved; many who, steadfast in the Christian life, seek to adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour in all things. For this, let the Giver of every good, and every perfect gift be praised. These happy subjects of divine grace are exhorted to "hold fast that which they. have received, that no man take their crown;" to "be faithful unto death, that they may obtain a crown of life."

But as it has often occurred, in former periods of the church, so there is reason to believe, it has happened with respect to these effusions of the Spirit's gracious influences. Transformed into an angel of light, the enemy of souls hath endeavoured to mar the glorious display of divine operations, by inciting to the most absurd and extravagant outrages upon Christian sobriety and decorum.

The Assembly beseech all their people to bear in mind, that if they allow themselves to abandon the unerring guidance of God's written word, they will inevitably become the prey of ignorance, superstition, and fanaticism. "Bodily exercise profiteth little" The mind sown with the seed of the word; the soul renewed by the Holy Spirit; these profit, these entitle a man to the character of being truly religious; and whatsoever has not a tendency to cherish aud promote true religion, is inconstant as the wind, and light as the chaff it scat

ters.

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Extract of a Letter from the Rev. Hugh Graham, of Steniack, Nova Scotia, to the Rev. John Brown, of Whitburn, near Edinburgh.

"In this remote and new country, and particularly in the more wilderness parts of it, Bibles and religious books, tracts and catechisms, are very scarce. Were good books sent, they would be read with avidity, for there is a general thirst after religious knowledge.. This they discover by their attention to such means of instruction as they have. Many of my books are fairly worn out by lending. As they all can read, and wish to read, and have but few good books, 'tis a great pity that they are so il supplied. The inhabitants of our principal towns are the least inclined to serious reading; and this occasions a very scanty importation of religious treatises. In this and the adjacent provinces, there are a great many scattered settlements where a gospel minister is seldom seen. Were preachers of the gospel to go among them, as the apostles did in their days, they would give at least an attentive hearing and an eager reception."

Mr. Brown adds, "That if any generous Chritians feel disposed to send some Bibles, religious books, or tracts to those poor people, they may address them to the Rev. Hugh Graham, the care of Edward Mortimer, Esq. Picton, Nova Scotia."

Extract of a Letter from Middleburg, Vermont, July 30, 1806.

Dear Sir,

You may have heard of an attention to religion in this and some of the neighbouring towns. There has been an awakening in Middleburg about a year; and ninety-four persons have, in consequence, been added to the church. The attention still continues in some parts of the town. There is also a considerable attention in Cornwall, under the preaching of the Rev. Mr. Bushell. The Lord has done much for us in this part of the country; and to Him be the glory! There is more than usual attention to religion at this tione in the towns of Newhaven, Weybridge, Salisbury, and Shoreham. The attention has also in some degree reached the college. We may hope that God will uphold his cause, notwithstanding the woful apostacy of many. What reason have we to be thankful that we may trust the interests of our souls, and those of the church, in the hands

of the great God, even our Saviour Jesus Christ?

We are happy to learn that the college in Middleburg is in a prosperous state, for an infant seminary, in a newly settled country. There are about sixty students. The religious interests of Vermont are thought to be intimately connected with the success of this institution.

In Northampton (Massachusetts) a very pleasing and general attention to religion prevails, and is extending to several of the neighbouring towns. Many, especially in Northampton, have been added to the church.

The physicians of Philadelphia have publicly and strongly recommended inoculation for the Kine or Cow-Pox, as a certain preventive against the Small - Pox. The Managers of the Philadelphia Dispensary have also declared, That they have for eighteen months inoculated for the Cow-Pox; and found it mild, unattended with danger, and a full security against the Small-Pox.

After these paragraphs, in an American publication, "The Panoplist," it is added,

"After a mature consideration of the preceding statement of facts and re commendations, we would venture to ask every person of reflection, Whether it is justifiable to continue to inoculate for the Small Pox ?"

THE Philadelphia Baptist Association was held Oct. 7-10. Rev. R. Smalley, Moderator, and W. Staughton, Clerk. The Massachusetts Baptist Missionary Magazine is printed for the benefit of this Society, and under its patronage. Dr. W. Rogers, Corresponding Secretary, from the Bethel Baptist Association, S. Carolina, gave a large and interesting account of its rise. It was formed November, 1789, and consisted only of ten churches; but so increased, that in August 1800, fourteen churches were dismissed from their body to form the Broad River Association; and, in the year 1802, nine churches were dismissed, to assist in forming what is called the Saluda Association. In the years 1802 and 1803 a great revival took place among them. In 1855 the number of churches was 49; of ministers 50, and of members 4092,

EDINBURGHI

MISSIONARY SOCIETY.

A LETTER has lately been received from Mr. Brunton, at Karass. He repeats, in strong terms, what was mentioned in a former letter, that several Effendis of the first rank in that country, make no secret of their suspicions respecting the truth of their own religion, and discover a strong desire to understand the New Testament. They do what they cau to read it in Arabic; but most of them, it is feared, with little success. They earnestly wish for a translation of it in Turkish; and it is much to be regretted, that there is no translation of it to be had in a language so extensively spoken. In order to convert people, they must be instructed; and here," says Mr. Brunton, "there are few ways of instructing the Mohammedans but by quietly circulating among them small tracts, and copies of the Scriptures. Were this done in a wise and prudent manner, I am persuaded, from what has already taken place, that the happiest effects would soon follow." Mr. B. concludes with saying, "Consider the nature of the Mohammedan religion, the state of the countries in which it is professed, and the prophecies respecting it in the holy Scriptures, and you must be convinced that it will meet with an awful and sudden downfal: but for this the minds of Mohammedans must be gradually prepared."

FRANCE.

FROM Some recent statements, it appears that Protestantism is reviving in various parts of the French dominion. By the union of Geneva, and of the German provinces on the left bank of the Rhine, a very considerable addition is made to the number of Protestants subject to France. The Protestant pastors receive an allowance, in the country places, of about 100l. a year; and in cities, about double that sum. A seminary is proposed to be established for Protestants; the expence attending which, it is intended to defray by means of voluntary contributions and annual charity-sermons throughout the Protestant community in France.

It

is likewise added, that very little doubt exists of their ability, in this way, to obtain the object of erecting and maintaining the proposed establishment.

MISSIONARY SOCIETY.

ОТАНЕІТЕ.

It is with great satisfaction we are enabled to inform our readers that advice has just been received from New South Wales, of the safe arrival of 'Mr. Warner at that settlement, and the safety of the Missionaries at Otaheite.

Extract of a Letter from the Rev. Mr. Marsden, Chaplain of the Colony, to the Secretary of the Missionary Society.

Rev. Sir,

Sydney, New South Wales,
Aug. 26, 1806.

I HAD the honour to receive your
Jetters by Governor Bligh, and by the
Porpoise, for myself and for the Mis
sionaries in this part of the globe,

In April last, I had the pleasure of hearing from the Missionaries at Otaheite, by the ship Lucy, of Loudon, which had touched there.

Previously to the arrival of Governor Bligh, I had taken up a small vessel, the only one I could procure, in order to carry supplies to Otaheite; and have been putting the goods on board this day. I expect she will sail in the course of a few days.

As a vessel sails to-morrow for England, I have not time to make up the accounts to transmit them by her. You will have heard by the Alexander, Capt. Rhodes, the state of the Misşionaries at Otaheite; and, therefore, I shall not trouble you with an account of them.

Mr. Warner is arrived safe in this set. tlement; where I have judged it best for him to remain, till a better opportunity shall offer for his joining the Missionaries at Otaheite.

The native of Otaheite, who lately arrived in the Porpoise, I shall for ward by this conveyance.

Mr. Shelly and family have returned to Port Jackson. This moment being the time when a change of government is taking place here, I have much pub. lic business on my hands, which will prevent my writing to you so fully as I could have wished; but as I expect to sail for England in the Buffalo, to gether with Governor King, in the beginning of October next, I hope soon to have the happiness of seeing you in London; when, I trust, some plan will be adopted for carrying the wishes of the Society, concerning Qtaheite, more fully into effect than has hitherto been done. I do not expect to remain many months in England; but to return to this colony as soon as those affairs are

settled, it, &c.

1

which now induce me to leave

Permit me to remain, with all Christian affection,

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SOUTH AFRICA. #

The following interesting particulars of a Mission to the Namaquas, aré extracted from a letter, written by Mr. C. Albrecht, dated Cape of Good Hope, May 18, 1806, addressed to the Directors of the Missionary So ciety at Rotterdam, who had the Management of the African Missions; while the Cape was in the hands of the Dutch, but which have now re verted into the hands of the Missionary Society in London:

[Translated from the Dutch. Beloved Brethren,

WE have suffered much in our journey through the barren desert: but God shews us that he is a hearer of the prayers of his servants, and a Preserver from destruction. He assisted

us thro' the wilderness to the Orange River; where we staid three months among the Heathen. During that time a way was opened for us to the Great and at which we rejoiced greatly. We Namaqua country, whither we went, of which we fixed our residence, and here found a fountain, in the vicinity called this spot The Happy Deliver

ance!

cultivating a garden for our mainten Here we have employed ourselves in ance; but as the country is very dry, and the soil bad, we are afraid we shall not be able to procure corn. The climate also is very hot, and the air oppressive. It seldom rains, and never without thunder; bu ia consequence of much rain last year, there is now tolerably good pasture. The inhabitants in general are obliged to live entirely for the production of corn. without bread, the country being unfit We have,

fields, which, it successful, will afford
however, a kitchen-garden and corn-
subsistence both for ourselves and for
the congregation.

We have a favourable prospect of
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success; for, we trust, all the Chiefs will receive the word of God; and we hope, in process of time, to proceed farther into the country. The number

of Heathen who come to us increases continually; and, to our great joy, about half of those who are with us understand the Dutch language.

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Brother Sydenfaden has visited a Namaqua kraal; the chief of which is called Choebap. Brother S. invited him, with his people, to hear the word, as he had before heard something of it. In answer, he expressed himself as follows: "That word is too great to be neglected! all the chiefs in the Namaqua country ought to listen to it! Here, under this tree, they ought to come (meaning the place where he heard brother Sydenfaden preach the gospel) then they will themselves find that this word is great! All the chiefs in this country ought to have one mind, and accept this word; and afterwards, that word ought to be preached in the centre of the Namaqua country, that every one may come and hear it!". How much brother S. rejoiced at these expressions, you may easily conceive; but he had the mortification to observe, that Satan was also at work. A Hottentot, called Absalom, who came from the Snow Mountains, deceives the ignorant Heathen by many juggling tricks, so that he procures many followers. This man, perceiving that he would lose all his credit and influence, if the gospel should be received, advised them not to listen to brother S.; and, even in his presence, declared, that all the people who came from Europe, or from Cape Town, were great rascals. Thus he caused almost the whole kraal to hate the word of God; and brother S. was in great danger of being murdered by them: but he was silent, and did not contradict Absalom. The next day, however, when they were a little composed, brother S. spoke earnestly to them; and told them what a great sin Absalom had committed: in consequence of which he trembled, and denied every word he had said. Now, he was afraid, in his turn, of being killed; but as bro

ther S. spoke in his behalf, he promised never to speak any more against the word of God.

When brother S. left this kraal, he asked the chief, Whether he was still inclined to hear the word of God? which he answered in the affirmative; and added, "I will come myself to the Happy Deliverance, and see whether the Oorlam Hottentots (i.e. those who served the Christians; and were therefore looked upon as more civilized) have accepted the word of God: if that be the case, I shall endeavour to persuade all the chiefs in the Namaqua country to accept of it; for if I alone accept of it, they will kill me, and thereby war be occasioned among us."

We have now upwards of 300 of the Oorlam and River Hottentots with us, who have daily an opportunity of being instructed in the truths of the gospel. Sometimes we also see some Bosjeemen. It appears to us, that the Heathen here have a desire to be ac quainted with the word of salvation. Though we suffer poverty, and are in want of all earthly comforts, which we could have enjoyed in our native country, yet we are satisfied if we perceive that our feeble endeavours are blessed from on high. We shall always rejoice, if we can be instrumental in the extension of the gospel of Christ.

My brethren will now, according to their promises, be occupied in building a house; for we have been obliged to hold divine service in the open air; which is rather dangerous, on account of the number of serpents, scorpions, venomous spiders, and other dangerous creatures. On Sunday evening, when was preaching to a number of people, a young serpent happened to creep round my leg 1 endeavoured to kill it, but could not however, it pleased the Lord to make it flee from me, so that I proceeded unmolested.

[The whole of this communication is very interesting, but far too copious to be inserted in this work: probably, it will appear at length in a future Number of the Missionary Transactions.]

BUENOS AYRES.

A Letter is just received by the Rolla, from the Rev. Mr. Creighton, Missionary to Buenos Ayres, dated Harbour of Maldinado, Dec. 9, 1806. The ship in which he sailed, the Spring Grove, arrived safely in the river Plate, a few days before, after a good voyage of two months and one day. They had soon the mortification to learn, from the Medusa ma of war, that Buenos Ayres was in the hands of the Spaniards. Air. Creighton continues with the fleet, till he sees what Provideuce may determine concerning the recapture of the place.

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