least till a material change takes place in the relations of the various enterprises of benevolence, agencies must be a regular part of the system of means employed for While the Directors believe that this cause should be sustained principally by the community, they also are fully of the opinion, that those who receive its charities are bound to replace them to the extent re-extending the knowledge and influence quired. The requisition is needed, not only for the benefit of the individuals aided, but also in order to a reception of any considerable pecuniary returns. By the 256 individuals who received assistance from the Society wholly as a gratuity, before the loaning system commenced, only a very small sum has been returned. The same, it would seem, has been the result in the operations of the Board of Education of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. So far as their receipts show, it appears that a mere trifle, comparatively, has been refunded. The form of the obligation, taken by this Society of its beneficiaries, is as follows: For value received, I promise to pay the American Education Society, or order, dollars, in five years after my preparatory studies for the ministry shall have been closed, with interest from that time. N. B. By a vote of the Directors, there will be allowed on all sums paid within five years from the close of the preparatory studies, a discount of twelve per cent. per annum, from the day of payment to the expiration of said five years; i. e a debt of $100 may be paid at the close of the studies for $40, in one year after that time, for $52, two years $64, three years $76, four years $88. Agents. While mankind continue as they now are, and the state of the churches for piety remains as it is, the benevolent societies will not be sustained without Agents. Reason and experience teach this. In carrying forward the cause of converting this world to Jesus Christ, a great variety of work is to be performed, and many laborers must be employed. Some must preach the gospel in this land, some must become missionaries in pagan lands, and some must conduct the various Christian enterprises. Foreign missionaries cannot perform the work devolving on the pastors of the churches; and pastors at home cannot be missionaries abroad. Neither can pastors or missionaries manage the concerns of the benevolent societies, any more than the Agents of these institutions can perform the duties of pastors or missionaries. These individuals severally, have a distinct field to occupy, and are useful and necessary to the advancement of the cause of Zion. Benevolent societies never flourish without the labors of Agents. Their voice on this subject is general and uniform. Say the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, which is the largest and the oldest benevolent national institution in the country, and consequently has more experimental knowledge on this subject than any other society: It is the settled conviction of the Board, resulting from experience, that, at of true religion through the earth. The The American Bible Society, which is neither denominational, sectarian or sectional, but catholic and national, and commends its object to the conscience and heart of every one, cannot carry forward its operations without the instrumentality of agents. In its last Annual Report we find the following remarks: "It has always been the desire of the Board, that no more agents should be employed by this Society than were absolutely necessary. Wherever the auxiliaries can be induced, by the help of the clergy and others, to make collections of money, and distribute Bibles and Testaments among such as need them, this course is adopted. In some parts of the country, however, a different policy must be pursued, or little is effected. This the auxiliaries feel, and feel so deeply, as often to employ and remunerate agents of their own. This is habitually done by the Virginia Bible Society, and usually by that of New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Maryland. The Long Island Bible Society, the past year, has sustained its own agent without assistance. In conformity with the policy above stated, namely, of employing agents where it is necessary, the Board have, the past year, had in their service the following individuals."-The number of agents specified is twelve, though some of them it is true did not labor the entire year; yet their service was performed in parts of the United States exclusive of New England. This latter field was cultivated by other agents, whose names are not mentioned in the Report. The Board of Education of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, which is, as it is technically termed, an ecclesiastical organization in contradistinction to a voluntary association, adds its tes timony in full confirmation of the above statements of these other Societies in the following language: "A general system of agencies, sustained by an adequate number of active and devoted men, is inseparable from the enlarged success of any institution, for doing good. Deeply convinced of this truth, and urged to the adoption of such a plan, both by the painful experience of the past, and the pressing solicitations of the churches, the Board have ventured to incur the expense of such an enterprise. Indeed they were persuaded, in view of the whole subject, of the actual economy of such a system." During the year in which this report was made, thirteen Agents were employed by the Society, though its field did not embrace more than one half of the territory over which the Presbyterian Church is extended, and though there were not under its patronage half the number of beneficiaries, that were aided by the American Education Society. In carrying into execution the plans and designs of this Institution, the Directors have felt it their duty to employ Agents as usual the past year, though the number has been small compared with the field they have attempted to cultivate. be able to sustain all young men of suitable qualifications, who should apply for aid. The suspension of assistance would preclude multitudes from preaching the gospel. The general distrust in the ability of the Society to render aid which would be thus created, would prevent many young men of talents and promise, who are brought into the church in the glorious revivals of religion of these favored times, however much they might desire to become pastors and missionaries, from commencing a course of education for this sacred work. They would be discouraged at the outset, and thus deterred from making any efforts to prepare for the ministry. All Societies kindred to this would be retarded in the good work they are hoping to accomplish. So intimate are the connection and sympathy which exist between the benevolent institutions, that if one suffers, all suffer with it. By curtailing the operations of this Society, others would be unfavorably affected and the cause of Christ impeded in its progress. Such, to a great extent, would be the disastrous consequences of suspending appropriations to beneficiaries. Manner of perseverance.-In this trying juncture of the affairs of this Society, duty requires that its friends persevere in the cause they have espoused, with increased zeal and energy; for it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and in a time of necessity to strengthen their hands in the work. Reasons for perseverance. — The past year has been such as to try the faith, patience, and perseverance of the friends of this Institution. It was commenced with fear and trembling. The Society was embarrassed with a debt of nearly $5,000, and the forebodings of evil hung upon the future. This they should do unitedly. Union is Nevertheless a greater number of benefici-strength, and is absolutely essential to sucaries have been aided and a larger amount cess; while division weakens and is ruinous of funds have been raised for their support, in its effects. It is, therefore, all-important than was anticipated. And God is now em- that mutual affection and confidence, togethphatically saying in his word and providence er with unity of action, prevail among those to the Directors, "Speak to the children of who take a part in this great enterprise. Israel that they go forward"-exhort Christians to greater activity and self-denial in this important enterprise, trusting in divine strength. No matter how deep and wide the waters through which to pass, they should advance, for the Lord will divide the sea hither and thither, that they may go over as on dry ground. There must be no retreat-no suspension in this great and good work. Were there to be, evils immense would ensue. The beneficiaries of the Society would become disheartened, abandon the object of their pursuit and relinquish the fond hope of preaching the gospel. Were the Society to suspend its appropriations, one hundred and thirty-nine institutions, including academies, colleges, and theological seminaries, would be most injuriously affected. The faith of the community in the ability of the Society would be impaired, were appropriations to beneficiaries to be withheld even for a short time. Hitherto the persuasion has prevailed, that the Society would Order should characterize all their movements. Method in business is desirable in secular affairs, and it is so especially in the spiritual concerns of Christ's kingdom. The Lord is a God of order. When the hosts of Israel marched through the Red Sea and the wilderness, under Moses their leader, they proceeded not in a tumultuous, but in an orderly manner, and thus successfully accomplished their journey. When the children of the captivity engaged in rebuilding Jerusalem, under the direction of Nehemiah, they were arranged into separate classes, and their places and duties were assigned them. In this way, the work progressed rapidly in troublous times. After this manner let all engage in carrying forward this important cause. They should feel that they are doing a great work, and cannot turn aside from it to engage in party animosities and strifes. A realizing sense of their dependence on God for success the friends of this society should ever entertain. In this as in every thing else of a religious nature, the Most 1. Resolved, That the Report now read, be adopted and published. Offered by Rev. Mr. Fay of Barre, seconded by Rev. Mr. Badger of New York. High is the efficient cause of success, and by the Rev. Nehemiah Adams of Boston, man, merely the instrumental cause. All and the following resolutions were presentthe power, wisdom and zeal of men comed: bined, without the divine blessing, could not convert a single soul, or advance, in the least degree, the cause of Christian benevolence. "Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it." Man's sufficiency is of God. The dry bones in Ezekiel's vision, did not move by virtue of his prophecy merely; the resurrection of the exceeding great army, was the effect of divine agency;-so Almighty power only, can efficiently carry forward the cause of truth and holiness with success and triumph. Information in reference to this whole subject should be diffused through the community; for otherwise they cannot be expected to perform their duty. This may be done by the press, and by Agents sent forth by the Society. That this cause may be fully sustained, the churches must contribute according to their ability-the rich of their abundance and the poor of their penury, must cast into the treasury of the Lord. The example of the Macedonian Christians is, in these days of pecuniary embarrassment, worthy of admiration and of imitation. In allusion to them the apostle says, "Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; how that in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power, they were willing of themselves, praying us with much entreaty, that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of ministering to the saints." 2. Resolved, That the condition of our own country and of pagan lands is such, as to demand and encourage strenuous and persevering efforts, that young men in the church, of piety and talent, may be consecrated to the Christian ministry. Offered by Rev. Mr. Nash, General Agent American Education Society, seconded by Rev. Dr. Anderson of Boston. 3. Resolved, That in view of the destitution of Evangelical ministers not only in this country and pagan lands, but also in many parts of nominally Christian Europe, the American Education Society prefers strong claims upon the religious community for their prayers and pecuniary contributions. Offered by Rev. Mr. Baird from Paris, seconded by Rev. Mr. Hoadly of Charlestown. Addresses were delivered by the Rev. Messrs. Fay, Nash, and Baird. An extract from the Report may be inserted in a future number of the Journal. Extracts from the Rev. Mr. Nash's Address. Mr. President, I will not pay so poor a compliment to the intelligence and the correct principles of the audience before me, Christian ministry to the conversion and salas to attempt to prove the necessity of the vation of men; that without such a ministry neither be sustained nor extended in this the religion which came from heaven can This whole enterprise of educating pious indigent young men for the Christian min-lost world. If the proof of this needs to be istry should be consecrated and sustained by prayer; by prayer offered for it with frequency, fervency, importunity and faith. HE who heard the prayer of Joshua, and commanded the sun and moon to stand still while he completed his victory over the enemies of Israel; HE who heard the prayer of the church for Peter while in prison, and, by an angel, set him at liberty, will hear the prayers of all, who in faith supplicate him in behalf of this Institution. Pray ye, therefore, the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest. Anniversaries of Societies, connected with the American Education Society. BOSTON AUXILIARY. THE Anniversary of the Boston Education Society, was held at the Marlboro' Chapel, May 28, 1838. The meeting was opened with prayer by the Rev. Jacob Allen of Connecticut. The Report was then read attempted any where, it must be in some What then is the present condition of our nation with regard to this subject of fundamental, of vital importance? Proportioned to the degree in which this fair land is furnished with this essential means of moral and intellectual improvement, is its prospect of future prosperity and glory. With equal and unquestionable truth, the same may be said of all the nations under the sun. If it is important that men in our country or any where else, be made happy in time and for ever, it is equally important that the gospel be preached to them. But at least one-third of the teeming population of this nation are | destitute of any competent hands to break to among the nations? What mean the heartthem the bread of life. This deficiency is rending cries for the waters of salvation, every year becoming greater and greater, which are wafted on every breeze from the at a most fearful rate. While about half a pagan world? Surely they are adapted to million of souls are added to our nation an- break the slumbers of the Christian comnually, the number of competent teachers is munity, to show them that a great work augmented only in about half that proportion. must soon be done for perishing pagans, and A similar disproportion between the increase that they ought to lose no time in preparing of our population and of Christian ministers, the proper instruments to do it. Never has been experienced for the last half cen- before since the days of the Apostles, has tury. Have we not then most urgent need there been such an opening and such a of effort to prevent this extension of moral demand for missionary labor in heathen desolation in the land? How does it threat-lands. The harvest of the world is evidently en our dearest interests? What shall hinder ripe. How pressing the demand for a vast it from sweeping away our national liberties? increase of laborers fitted to gather this What prevents it from blotting out every harvest. thing among us that is fair, and lovely and of good report? What Christian, what patriot can view this state of things without concern? Who can avoid the feeling that he is called upon to do all in his power to check this rapid undermining of every valuable institution, on which our nation must rely for safety and for happiness? Who does not know that we have no surety for all which we hold most dear, any longer than the fear of God shall exist among us? At the same time who can imagine this will be found to exist in any greater extent than our community is supplied with competent religious instructors? Morality, good order, a free government, religion, maintained in a com-institutions? Mr. President, a comprehensive munity without the preaching of the gospel! As well might we look for vegetation in the desert of Arabia. Men doing that which is just and right, merely from fear of human rulers, when the fear of the Supreme Ruler is banished from their minds! As well might you think to check the fury of a tempest with your breath. Unless vigorous efforts are made without delay to provide that the increase of well-qualified Christian pastors may be made to bear a nearer proportion to the increase of our population, we have every reason to fear that the sun of our prosperity will ere long go down, and Ichabod be written on all our nation's glory. But shall I be reminded that there are among us ministers not employed in their appropriate work? that there are also in the country those who would go forth to the heathen, waiting only that the means of sending and sustaining them may be provided? Will it hence be claimed that we are supplied with as many ministers as are needed, and that whatever necessity there might once be of special effort in this cause, this necessity no longer exists? Will it be thought from the facts before us, that the time in which Education Societies were needed is gone by, and that the Christian public is no longer called on to sustain these moment. view of our country and of the world is all which is needed to show that all impressions of this kind are like the baseless fabric of a vision; that there has been no time when a more urgent call has existed for vigorous, persevering effort to augment the number of them who publish the gospel of peace. Ministers enough! No longer needful to urge and assist young men of piety and talents to prepare for the sacred office! Then have all the wide wastes of this apostate world become as the garden of the Lord? Has the grand Jubilee of the world begun to be celebrated? Strange that a conclusion so inconsistent with the present state of the But, Sir, our concern must not be con- nations, and derived from the premises which fined to our own land. The church in Amer-I have stated, should be entertained for a ica is a debtor to the world. The great end which every member of this church should propose to himself in living, is the conversion of the world from sin to God. How little has yet been done towards accomplishing this magnificent object. But little more than one Christian minister to a million of souls has yet gone to preach the unsearchable riches of Christ to the people who are in the region and shadow of death. If we take into view the whole population of the globe, there are not on earth one-thirtieth part so many Christian ministers as are requisite to its being supplied with the bread of life. It is a circumstance of great interest and moment that multitudes in the dark places of the earth are beginning to feel the exigencies of their condition, and to stretch out their hands unto God. What means this stir 14 VOL. XI. That after a call so long and so loud for men rather than for money in the missionary service, a greater number of individuals should be ready to engage in this service than the churches can send forth in a time of unparalleled pressure, is the very thing to have been expected. But there is every reason to consider the present state of things in regard to this subject as of temporary duration. While the means of the community have been greatly diminished, the spirit of missions and the spirit of Christian liberality has evidently been increased. I testify that which I do know, for my eyes have often seen it, that amidst the embarrassment and distress of the last year, Christians have manifested an increased disposition to honor the Lord with their substance, and with the The officers elected for the ensuing year are Ambrose White, Esq. President, Rev. Eliakim Phelps, Secretary, and George W. McClelland, Esq. Treasurer. CONNECTICUT BRANCH. first fruits of their increase. Then let them | Esq. presided on the occasion. The Secretary, again possess the means which they once Rev. Eliakim Phelps, read the Annual Report, had, let the prosperity of the nation again and the meeting was impressively addressed by flow, and we confidently expect missionary the Rev. President Beecher of Illinois College, operations will be carried forward with au efficiency and to an extent hitherto unknown. the Rev. President Carroll of Hampden Siduey But those means shall be possessed again. College, and the Rev. Dr. Beecher of Lane That prosperity shall again flow. Of what Seminary, Cincinnati, Ohio. avail would be masses of stubble or of bulrushes to obstruct the course of the Mississippi to the ocean. How long before it would sweep them all away, or find a passage over them or around them. So the business and the enterprize of this great nation cannot long be held in check, unless the God of heaven designs to destroy us. But we do not believe he has any such design. After chastising us, he will turn from his displeasure, and bless us again, that we may obey and serve him all our days. Then we believe, and at no distant day, will our Christian community have not only larger means, but also a larger heart to sustain those operations which aim at the conversion of the world. When this shall happen, how greatly will be needed the result of the efforts contemplated in the resolution which I have just submitted. To these efforts we are in no small degree encourged by the success of our past operations, and by the present aspect of the churches. As we see the Spirit poured out on many places in the land, we trust there will be many children of God among our young men, whom his people will educate for the service of the sanctuary, and who will contribute not a little to the universal triumphs of his grace. CENTRAL AMERICAN EDUCATION So CIETY. As the Anniversary of the Parent Society was observed this year in New York, the Central American Education Society did not as usual celebrate their annual meeting publicly. For some account of their proceedings during the year, reference may be had to the Annual Report of the Parent Society. The officers of the Society are, Hon. Theodore Frelinghuysen, LL. D., President. The Vice Presidents are twentyfour in number. The Corresponding Secretary is the Rev. Benjamin Labaree, and the Recording Secretary is the Rev. John J. Owen. The Treasurer is Charles Starr, Esq. PHILADELPHIA EDUCATION SOCIETY. THE Anniversary of this Society was held in Philadelphia, May 17, 1838. Ambrose White, THE Twelfth Annual Meeting of the Connecticut Branch of the American Education SoCiety was held at Norwalk, June 19, 1838, in connection with the General Association. The Rev. President Day, of Yale College, presided. The Reports of the Treasurer and Directors we e read, accepted, and ordered to be printed. Interesting and appropriate addresses were made by Rev. Horace Bushnell of Hartford, Rev. Prof. Goodrich of New Haven, and Rev. Robert Baird of New York. An extract from the Report will be inserted in the next Journal. Hon. Thomas Day is President, Rev. Samuel H. Riddel is Secretary, and Eliphalet Terry, Esq. is Treasurer. MAINE BRANCH. THE Annual Meeting of this Society was held at Saco, June 27, 1838, at the time of the meeting of the General Conference. The Rev. William Allen, D. D., President of Bowdoin College, in the chair. The Reports of the Treasurer and Directors were read and ordered to be published. The assembly was addressed by the Rev. Ansel Nash, General Agent of the Parent Society, the Rev. Mr. McKeen of Belfast, the Rev. Mr. Condit of Portland, late professor in Amherst College, and the Rev. Mr. Pomeroy of Bangor. The meeting was considered a very useful one to the Society. An extract from the Report may be expected in the next Journal. The Rev. William Allen, D. D. is President of the Society, Rev. Benjamin Tappan, D. D. Secretary, and Prof. Smyth of Bowdoin College is Treasurer. BERKSHIRE AUXILIARY. THE Berkshire Education Society held its Annual Meeting at Peru, June 12, 1838. The meeting was opened with singing, and with prayer by the Rev. Mr. Peet. Owing to the |