]> <emph>Journal of the Thirty-Fifth Annual Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church, in the Diocese of Mississippi.:</emph> Electronic Edition. Episcopal Church. Diocese of Mississippi. Convention. Funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services supported the electronic publication of this title. Text scanned (OCR) by Allen Vaughn Images scanned by Allen Vaughn and Christie Mawhinney Text encoded by Christie Mawhinney and Jill Kuhn First edition, 2000 ca. 270K Academic Affairs Library, UNC-CH University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2000.

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 Journal of the Thirty-Fifth Annual Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church, in the Diocese of Mississippi. Journal of the Protestant Episcopal Convention, For the Diocese of Mississippi. 1861. Episcopal Church. Diocese of Mississippi. Convention. Held in Christ Church, Holly Springs, April 25, 26, and 27, 1861. 102 p. Jackson Mississippian Book and Job Office. 1861. 4535 Conf. (Rare Book Collection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

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 Library of Congress Subject Headings, 21st edition, 1998 English Episcopal Church. Diocese of Mississippi -- History -- 19th century. Episcopal Church -- Mississippi -- History -- 19th century. Episcopal Church -- Confederate States of America. Mississippi -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865. Confederate States of America -- Religion. Secession -- Mississippi. United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Religious aspects. 2000-11-16, Celine Noel and Wanda Gunther revised TEIHeader and created catalog record for the electronic edition. 2000-02-17, Jill Kuhn finished TEI-conformant encoding and final proofing. 2000-02-14, Christie Mawhinney finished TEI/SGML encoding 1999-12-23, Allen Vaughn finished scanning (OCR) and proofing.

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 JOURNAL OF THE THIRTY-FIFTH ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH, IN THE DIOCESE OF MISSISSIPPI. HELD IN CHRIST CHURCH, HOLLY SPRINGS, APRIL 25, 26 AND 27, 1861. JACKSON:MISSISSIPPIAN BOOK AND JOB OFFICE. 1861. LIST OF THE CLERGY. RT. REV. WILLIAM MERCER GREEN, D. D., Jackson. Rev. WILLIAM F. ADAMS, Rector of St. Paul's Church, Woodville. Rev. J. CHARLES ADAMS, M. D., Deacon, Minister of Grace Church, Carrollton. Rev. FREDERICK A. P. BARNARD, LL. D., President of State University, and ministering in St. Paul's Church, Oxford. Rev. WILLIAM H. BURTON, ministering at Corinth. Rev. FREDERICK W. BOYD, P. O. Natchez. Rev. ROBERT F. CLUTE, Rector of Grace Church, Okolona. Rev. WILLIAM CROES CRANE, Rector of St. Andrew's Church, Jackson. Rev. FREDRICK W. DAMUS, P. O. Vicksburg. Rev. ELIJAH H. DOWNING, Rector of St. Philip's Church, Kirkwood. Rev. FREDERICK ELWELL, Rector of St. Luke's Church , Brandon, and St. Matthew's Church, Clinton: P. O. Brandon. Rev. EDWARD FONTAINE, Rector of St. Mark's Church, Raymond, and Church of the Redemption, Hinds Co: P. O. Jackson. Rev. JAMES A. FOX, P. O. Bovina, Warren County. Rev. JAMES D. GIBSON, Rector of St. Paul's Church, Columbus. Rev. JAMES S. GREENE, P. O. Fayette, Jefferson County. Rev. BENJAMIN HALSTED, Rector of Calvary Church, Holmes County: P. O. Lexington. Rev. WILLIAM B. LACEY, D. D., President of Rose-Gates Female College, Okolona. Rev. WILLIAM W. LORD, D. D., Rector of Christ's Church, Vicksburg. Rev. BENJAMIN M . MILLER, Rector of Christ's Church, Church Hill. Rev. THOMAS D. OZANNE, Rector of St. Luke's Church, Shieldsboro'. Rev. GIDEON B. PERRY, D. D., LL. D., Rector of Trinity Church, Natchez. Rev. WILLARD PRESBURY, Rector of St. John's Church, Early Grove, and St. Andrew's, Marshall County: P. O. Early Grove. Rev. GEORGE ROTTENSTEIN, Rector of the Church of the Epiphany, Claiborne County: P. O. Port Gibson. Rev. HENRY SANSOM, D. D., Rector of Grace Church, Canton, and St. Alban's, Warren County: P. O. Canton. Rev. THOMAS S. SAVAGE, M. D.: P. O. Pass Christian. Rev. WILLIAM PARKER SCOTT: P. O. Yazoo City. Rev. GEORGE W. SILL, Rector of Trinity Church, Pass Christian. Rev. JOSEPH SPENCER, D D., Instructor of Select Boys' School, Jackson, and ministering at Terry and Osyka. Rev. GEORGE STEWART, ministering at Enterprize, and the Church of the Messiah, and intervening places: P. O. Enterprize. Rev. M. LEANDER WELLER, ministering at Hernando and Panola, and intervening places: P. O. Hernando. ∗Rev. THOMAS APPLEGATE, Rector of St. John's Church, Aberdeen. ∗Rev, AMOS C. TREADWAY, officiating in St. John's Church, Lake Washington. ∗Rev. CHARLES B. DANA, D. D., Rector of St. James' Church, Port Gibson. ∗Rev. WILLIAM K. DOUGLAS, Professor in Jefferson College, and Rector of the Church of the Advent, Washington, Adams County. ∗Not entitled to seats in this Convention. Roll of Lay Delegates, ELECTED TO THE CONVENTION OF 1861.

Those marked thus (∗) attended its Sittings.

CHURCHES. . . . . DELEGATES. . . . . ALTERNATES. Trinity, Natchez. . . . . R. W. Phillips . . . . .B. Butler. Trinity, Natches. . . . . J. D. Shields. . . . . J. T. Butler. Trinity, Natches. . . . . G. M. Hillyer. . . . . J. T. McMurran. St. Andrew's, Jack'n. . . . . J. A. Kausler. . . . . H. E. Windley. St. Andrew's, Jack'n. . . . . ∗John Duncan . . . . . J. C Napier. St. Andrew's, Jack'n. . . . . Edw. M. Yerger . . . . .C. A. Moore. Grace, Canton . . . . . ∗A. Sneed. . . . . . . .W. Drane. Grace, Canton. . . . . ∗C. C. Shackelford. Grace, Canton. . . . . T. C. Tupper. . . . . St. John's, Annadale. . . . . Martin. W. Ewing. . . . . St. John's, Annadale. . . . . Robt. W. Ewing . . . . . St. John's, Annadale. . . . . B. Bynum Ewing . . . . . St. Lukes, Brandon . . . . . D. W. Wilkinson . . . . . St. Lukes, Brandon . . . . . Patrick Henry . . . . . St. Matthew's, Clin. . . . . Levi C. Harris . . . . . St. Matthew's, Clin. . . . . Bruce Banks . . . . . St. Andrew's, Marshall Co. . . . . A. M. Clayton. . . . . St. Andrew's, Marshall Co. . . . . ∗Dabney Minor. . . . . St. Andrew's, Marshall Co. . . . . J. P. Hardaway. . . . . St. James,' Early G. . . . . Caldwell P. Pool. . . . . St. James,' Early G. . . . . ∗J. G. Bailey . . . . . St. James,' Early G. . . . . ∗Robert J. Baird. . . . . St. Philips, Kirkwood . . . . . William McWillie. . . . . St. Philips, Kirkwood . . . . . Edw. H. Anderson . . . . . St. Philips, Kirkwood . . . . . Wm. Hemmingway. . . . . Christ, Church Hill . . . . . Benjamin D, Beavin . . . . . Christ, Church Hill . . . . . Edgar G. Wood . . . . . Christ, Church Hill . . . . . Robert Cox . . . . . St. Peter's, Oxford. . . . . ∗Thos. E. B. Pegues. . . . . St. Peter's, Oxford. . . . . ∗Jacob Thompson. . . . . St. Peter's, Oxford. . . . . Alex. H. Pegues. . . . . Christ, Holly Springs. . . . . ∗Charles Bonner. . . . . Christ, Holly Springs. . . . . ∗T. W. Dancy. . . . . Christ, Holly Springs. . . . . ∗B. W. Walthall. . . . . Epiphany, Claiborne county. . . . . William Miles. . . . . Epiphany, Claiborne county. . . . . D. W. Jones. . . . . Epiphany, Claiborne county. . . . . Edwin McCaleb. . . . . Ascension, Hernando. . . . . J. T. M. Smith. . . . . Ascension, Hernando. . . . . John C. Thompson. . . . . I. O. Lusher. Ascension, Hernando. . . . . H. H. Chalmers. . . . . Wm. H. Johnston. St. Mark's, Raymond. . . . . A. R. Johnston. . . . . St. Mark's, Raymond. . . . . A. L. Dabney. . . . . St. Mark's, Raymond. . . . . George Latimer. . . . . Messiah, Noxubee. . . . . J. F. Maury. . . . . Messiah, Noxubee. . . . . Stanton Field. . . . . St. Stephen's, Panola. . . . . ∗Franklin Moore. . . . . Z. P. Weaver. St. Stephen's, Panola. . . . . Simon P. Lester. . . . . M. S. Ward. St. Alban's, Bovina. . . . . Thos. V. Noland. . . . . St. Alban's, Bovina. . . . . Thos. N. Batchelor. . . . . St. Alban's, Bovina. . . . . Thruston J. Thompson. . . . . Church of the Advent, Washington,. . . . . Oscar Kibbe Church of the Advent, Washington,. . . . . Thos. R. Shields. Grace, Carrollton. . . . . John P. Gouch. . . . . Christ, Vicksburg. . . . . W. C. Smedes. . . . . Christ, Vicksburg. . . . . J. A. Klein. . . . . Christ, Vicksburg. . . . . B. S. Tappan. . . . . Grace, Okolona. . . . . J. E. Tucker. . . . . Duncan G. Habbard. Grace, Okolona. . . . . C. S. Howe. . . . . W. Gaston Henderson. Grace, Okolona. . . . . Joseph Bretney. . . . . J. Y. Thompson. St. Paul's, Columbus. . . . . Gray A. Chandler. . . . . St. Paul's, Columbus. . . . . B. A. Vaughan. . . . . St. Paul's, Columbus. . . . . J. V. Harris. . . . . St. James,' Port Gibson. . . . . T. B. Magruder. . . . . R. B. Maury. St. James,' Port Gibson. . . . . Geo. C. Butler. . . . . H. Ring. St. James,' Port Gibson. . . . . Geo. N. Seidlitz. . . . . A. J. Lewis. THE JOURNAL. CHRIST CHURCH, HOLLY SPRINGS, THURSDAY, APRIL 25th, 1861.

THIS being the time and place appointed for the meeting of the THIRTY-FIFTH Annual Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church, in the Diocese of Mississippi, the Rt. Rev. WILLIAM MERCER GREEN, D. D., Bishop of the Diocese, called the Convention to order at 10 o'clock, A. M., and opened it with prayer.

The Roll of the Clergy entitled to seats in the Convention, as furnished by the Bishop, was then called, and the following clergymen answered to their names:

The Rt. Rev. WILLIAM MERCER GREEN, D. D. Rev. Fred. W. Boyd, Rev. Wm. Croes Crane, Rev. Elijah H. Downing. Rev. Edward Fontaine, Rev. James A. Fox, Rev. Willard Presbury, Rev. Thos. S. Savage, M. D. Rev. George Stewart, Rev. M. Leander Weller.

Credentials of Lay Delegates from St. Andrew's Church, Jackson; St. Matthew's, Clinton; Christ Church, Holly Springs; St. Andrew's, Marshall County; Ascension, De Soto County; St. John's, Aberdeen; St. Philip's Kirkwood; St. Luke's, Brandon; St. Peter's, Oxford; St. Johns, Early Grove, and Grace Church, Canton, were presented and referred to a committee consisting of the Rev. Edward Fontaine, and Messrs. C. C. Shackelford and Thomas E. B. Pegues, who, after examination, reported the same as correct. Whereupon, the list of names was called, and the following Lay Delegates appeared and took their seats in the Convention:

St. Andrew's Church, Jackson,. . . . . John Duncan, Christ Church, Holly Springs,. . . . . B. W. Walthall and Charles Bonner. St. Andrew's Church, Marshall Co.,. . . . . Dabney Minor. Grace Church, Canton,. . . . . A. Sneed and C. C. Shackelford. St. Peter's Church, Oxford,. . . . . Thos. E. B. Pegues.

A constitutional quorum of the Clergy and Lay Delegates being ascertained to be present, the Bishop declared the Convention duly constituted, and ready to proceed to business.

The ballot being dispensed with, the Rev. W. C. Crane was, on motion, unanimously re-elected to the office of Secretary and Treasurer of the Convention.

Col. John Duncan was, on motion, unanimously re-elected Treasurer of the Diocese.

On motion the rules of order of the last Convention were adopted.

On motion, it was

Resolved, That the Clergymen of this Diocese not entitled to seats; also, Clergymen of other Dioceses, and candidates for Holy Orders, be admitted to honorary seats in the Convention.

On motion, the rules were suspended and the Convention proceeded to elect a Standing Committee for the ensuing year. Upon counting the ballots the Rev. Henry Sansom, D. D.,Rev. W. W. Lord, D. D. Rev. Wm. Croes Crane, Mr. Wm. C. Smedes, and Mr. John Duncan, were declared duly elected.

Resolved, That a committee be appointed by the chair to give some proper expression to the feelings awakened in this body by the death of the Rev. Dr. Ingraham.

The chair appointed on this committee the Rev. Dr. Sansom, the Rev. Dr. Savage and Dabney Minor.

On motion, the Convention took a recess until after Divine Service.

Morning prayer was read by the Rev. Messrs. Boyd and Fontaine, and the Convention Sermon preached by the Rev. Willard Presbury, from 2 Timoth, IV,—6, 7, 8.

After Divine Service, the Convention was again called to order.

In addition to those above named, the following clergymen took their seats:

The Rev. Benjamin M. Miller, the Rev. Gideon B. Perry, D D., LL. D., the Rev. George Rottenstein, and the Rev. Henry Sansom, D.. D.

On motion the Convention adjourned to meet again at 5 o'clock, P. M.

 FIVE O'CLOCK, P. M.

The Convention was called to order. In addition to those present at the morning session the Rev. Wm. H. Burton and the Rev. Benjamin Halsted answered to their names.

Doctor T. W. Dancy appeared as a Lay Delegate from Christ Church, Holly Springs.

The Bishop announced the appointment of the following STANDING COMMITTEES.Credentials—Rev. E. Fontaine, Messrs. C. C. Shackelford, and Thomas E. B. Pegues.New Parishes—Rev. Dr. Savage, Messrs. Dabney Minor, and B. W. Walthall.State of the Church—Rev. Dr. Perry, Rev. Mr. Fox, Rev. Mr. Fontaine, Rev. Dr. Savage, Rev. Mr. Stewart, Rev. Mr. Burton and Rev. Mr. Rottenstein.Finance—Messrs. T. E. B. Peuges, Dabney Minor, C. C. Shackelford, Charles Bonner, John Duncan, and Jacob Thompson.Constitution and Canons—Rev. Mr. Fox, Rev. Mr. Presbury, Messrs. A. Sneed, Franklin Moore and C. C. Shackelford.Diocesan Schools—Rev. Dr. Sansom, Rev. Mr. Crane, Rev. Mr. Downing, Rev. Dr. Savage and Rev. Mr. Boyd.Unfinished Business—Rev Mr. Weller and T. W. Daney.

On motion,

Resolved, That the next convention be held in the city of Jackson, on the fourth Thursday in April, 1862.

The following Canon was presented, and on motion referred to the committee on Constitution and Canons.

CANON ON RELIGIOUS SERVICES DURING THE CONVENTION.

On the first day of the meeting of each Convention, there shall be Morning Prayer, a Sermon, and the celebration of the Holy Communion; and on each succeeding day of the session, there shall be the usual Morning Prayer and a Sermon.

On motion, the Convention proceeded to ballot for THE ECCLESIASTICAL COURT OF THE DIOCESE: and elected the following members:

REV. H. SANSOM, D. D. REV. JAMES A. FOX. REV. W. W. LORD, D. D. REV. BENJAMIN M. MILLER. REV. W. C. CRANE.

Messrs. WM. C. SMEDES, WM. YERGER and JOHN DUNCAN, were re-elected TRUSTEES OF THE EPISCOPAL FUND AND CHURCH PROPERTY.

The Rev. JAS. A. FOX, Rev, F. W. BOYD, and Mr. JAS. S. JOHNSTON were elected Trustees of the General Theological Seminary.

On motion, the Convention adjourned to meet again at 9 clock on Friday morning.

 Divine Service was celebrated in Christ Church, on Thursday evening, at 8 o'clock. Evening Prayer was said by the Rev. Dr. Sansom and the Rev. Mr. Burton, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. F. W. Boyd. CHRIST CHURCH, HOLLY SPRINGS, FRIDAY, April 26, 1861.

The Convention was called to order by the Rt. Rev. Bishop of the Diocese, at 9 A. M., and opened with Prayer.

The minutes of the proceedings of yesterday were read and approved.

Upon the call of the roll of Delegates, in addition to those present yesterday, the Hon. Jacob Thompson, from St. Peter's, Oxford, answered to his name.

The committee on the admission of New Congregations, respectfully report :

That they have examined the papers submitted by Grace church, Carrollton, and St. Stephen's church, Panola. Those of the latter are entirely correct. The former however are deficient in respect to the requisition of the 4th Article of the Constitution. The deficiency however is of such a character that they feel no hesitation in recommending the admission of said Parish. They therefore beg leave to submit the following resolution:

Resolved, That Grace church, Carrollton, and St. Stephens, Panola, be admitted into union with this Diocese.

THOS. S. SAVAGE, Chairman.

The above report was received, and the resolution appended to it, was, on motion adopted.

The committee on Credentials, reported the names of Lay Delegates, in addition to those reported yesterday, from the following churches:

St. Alban's, . . . . .Bovina. St. Stephen's, . . . . .Panola.

Dr. Franklin Moore took his seat as a Lay Delegate from St. Stephen's, Panola.

On motion, the Convention proceeded to ballot for a Lay member of the Board of Trustees of the University of the South, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Thos. H. Stanton; where on the Hon. William Yerger was elected to fill the said vacancy.

The Bishop commenced reading his annual Journal and Address, when the hour of eleven having arrived, the Convention took a recess until after Divine Service.

Morning Prayer was said by the Rev. Messrs. Halsted and Miller, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. James A. Fox.

The Convention came to order after Divine Service, at the call of the Bishop.

The reading of the Bishop's annual Journal and Address was then completed.

On motion,

Resolved, That the portion of the Bishop's address referring to a circular letter from Bishops Polk and Elliot, be referred to a committee of five, to be appointed by the chair.

The chair announced as the committee under the above resolution, Messrs. Minor, Duncan, Thompson; and the Rev. Messrs. Crane and Fox.

On motion,

Resolved, That the Secretary be instructed to extract so much of the Bishop's address as relates to the present political crisis, and have the same published in at least one of the secular papers in each of the principal cities of this State, and to request that the same be copied into the church papers published in the South.

On motion,

Resolved, unanimously, That the Convention approve of the alterations in the usual Prayers for the President, and for Congress, made by the Bishop, and heartily thank him for the forms of Prayer which he has set forth, and for his promptness in providing them; as we think, in the exercise of a sound discretion.

The Treasurer of the Diocese presented his annual report:

REPORT OF THE TREASURER OF THE DIOCESE

The Treasurer of the Diocese reports that since entering upon the duties of his office at the last Convention, held in Christ Church, Vicksburg, April 1860, he has—

RECEIVED From assessments on Parishes . . . . .$2,565 00 From Interest on notes belonging to Episcopal Fund . . . . .617 00 From Late Treasurer . . . . .79 23 From Individual donation—Mrs. Govan, Marshall county . . . .12 00 $3,273 23

And he has

PAID For printing circulars . . . . .$6 00 For Insurance on Episcopal residence . . . . .25 00 For Salary of Bishop Green as per vouchers, in full to 1st July, 1861 3,000 00—$3,031 00 Leaving a Balance in Treasury of . . . . .$242 23

Which, with an additional sum, will probably be required for necessary repairs upon the Episcopal residence.

The accompanying table marked A, exhibits the assessments by the last Convention, upon each Parish, the amounts collected therefrom, and the unpaid balances remaining at the close of the report.

The Endowment Fund continues as at last Convention, amounting in all to $6,425—yielding at 10 per ct. interest $642 50,—$617 of which including $72 due last Convention, has been paid; and the balance, most probably will soon be collected.

It is greatly to be desired that some less exceptionable mode for securing the salary of the Bishop, should be devised and adopted; but, during the present political and financial condition of our country, the Treasurer respectfully recommends the adoption by the Convention of the assessment roll of last year, without change or alteration.

Under a resolution of the Convention of last year, Journal page 25, the Treasurer was instructed to report to this body, the proceedings necessary, in reference to certain property, deeded by Moses Alexander and others, to the Trustees of the Episcopal Fund. Upon subsequent inquiry, it was ascertained that the resolution referred to, was adopted under a misapprehension of the facts, and the Treasurer has been informed that at the session of the present Convention, a report on the subject will be made by the Vestry of St. John's Church, Early Grove.

Under another resolution of the last Convention, Journal, page 20, the arrearages, due from Christ Church, Monticello, $10, and from Ascension Church, Hernando, $10, were to be remitted upon proper application;— though not formally applied to, by these churches, the above amounts are nevertheless omitted in this annual report.

All of which is respectfully submitted, JOHN DUNCAN, Treasurer of the Diocese, April 25, 1861.

TREASURER OF THE DIOCESE.Statement A—Assessments, Payments and Arrearages

The Convention took a recess until 5 o'clock, P. M.

 5 O' CLOCK, P. M

Doctor J. G. Bailey and R. J. Baird appeared as delegates from St. John's church, Early Grove.

The Secretary and Treasurer of the Convention presented his annual report:

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY AND TREASURER OF THE CONVENTION.

The Secretary and Treasurer of the Convention presents his annual account current of the Contingent Expense Fund.

In the absence of any report from the late Secretary and Treasurer, he has no means of ascertaining which of the Parishes were indebted last year for arrearages.

Of the assessments for the present year, there remain yet unpaid,—from

Christ Church,. . . . . Vicksburg . . . . .$30 00 Trinity Church,. . . . . Pass Christian . . . . .15 00 Christ Church,. . . . . Holly Springs . . . . .15 00 St. John's church,. . . . . Lake Washington . . . . .15 00 Trinity Church,. . . . . Yazoo city . . . . .20 00 Chapel of the Cross,. . . . . Madison county . . . . .10 00 St. John's church,. . . . . Aberdeen . . . . . 5 00 St. John's church,. . . . . Pontotoc . . . . .5 00∗ Grace church,. . . . . Okolona . . . . .5 00 St. Mark's church,. . . . . Mississippi City . . . . .5 00 Redeemer church,. . . . . Biloxi . . . .5 00 St. Paul's church,. . . . . Grand Gulf . . . . .5 00 St. James' church,. . . . . Port Gibson . . . . .5 00∗ St. John's church,. . . . . Early Grove . . . . .5 00∗ $145 00

There is now on hand the sum of $159 44 to meet the expenses of the present Convention, which are estimated at $375 00.

W. C. CRANE, Secretary and Treasurer. ∗Paid during Convention. Account current of the Secretary of the Convention. W. C. CRANE, SECRETARY, &C. IN ACCOUNT WITH THE CONVENTION OF THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH, DIOCESE OF MISSISSIPPI. 1860. . . . . DR. Amount on hand at the close of the last convention assessment of 1859—(see page 101 last Journal) . . . . .$285 00 Received on account of the same assessment from Messiah, Noxubee . . . . .5 00 St. Mark's Mississippi City . . . . .5 00 Received from the following Parishes the sums assessed upon them by the last Convention, viz: St. Andrew's, Jackson . . . . .30 00 St. Luke's, Brandon . . . . .5 00 St. Matthew's, Clinton . . . . .5 00 Church of the Savior, Osyka . . . . .5 00 St. Mark's, Raymond . . . . .5 00 Church of the Redemption, Hinds county . . . . .5 00 St. Luke's, Shieldsborough . . . . .5 00 St. Philip's, Kirkwood . . . . .10 00 St. Andrew's, Marshall county . . . . .10 00 Ascension, Hernando . . . . .5 00 Grace, Canton . . . . .10 00 Christ, Church Hill . . . . .30 00 St. Peter's, Oxford . . . . .10 00 Messiah, Noxubee . . . . .5 00 St. John's, Annadale . . . . .5 00 St. Paul's, Columbus . . . . .15 00 St. Paul's, Woodville . . . . .15 00 Epiphany, Claiborne . . . . .5 00 Trinity, Natchez . . . . .40 00 Calvary, Holmes . . . . .5 00 Grace, Bovina . . . . .10 00 $530 00 1860. . . . . CR. June 18. Cash paid E. Barksdale, for printing 750 copies (116 pages) of the Journal of the Convention . . . . .$341 00 Cash paid postage on letters and journals . . . . .6 75 Expenses on journals sent to Parishes . . . . .2 80 Express charges on journals of General Convention . . . . .2 50 Forms of Parochial reports with postages on same . . . . .5 00 Cash paid for stationery, and discount on uncurrent money . . . . .5 60 Interest on $69 15 for one year . . . . .6 09 Ap'l 26. This amount in hand, applicable to expenses of the Convention of current year . . . . .159 44 $530 00

On motion,

Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration the facts relative to parish property at Early Grove, and to report to this Convention as soon as practicable the necessary action thereon.

C. C. Shackelford and the Rev. Messrs. Miller and Presbury, were appointed the committee under the foregoing Resolution.

The committee on Unfinished Business, presented the following Report:

The committee on Unfinished Business respectfully report that they have not been able to discover any thing on the pages of the previous journals requiring the action of this Convention.

M. LEANDER WELLER, Chairman.

The Convention adjourned until 9 o'clock on Saturday Morning.

At 8 o'clock, P.M., Evening Prayer was said by the Rev. Messrs. Stewart and Downing, and a sermon preached by the Rev. Benjamin M. Miller. CHRIST CHURCH, HOLLY SPRINGS, SATURDAY, April 27, 9 A. M.

The minutes of yesterday's proceedings were read and approved.

The Rev. Charles F. Adams, M. D. appeared and took his seat.

“The committee of Inquiry for the better security of Church property, &c.,” was continued, and, instructed to report to the next Convention.

The following report was received, and the resolution accompanying it were adopted:

REPORT OF COMMITTEE IN RELATION TO DEED OF GIFT OF MOSES ALEXANDER AND OTHERS, OF 25th FEBRUARY, 1852.

The committee to whom was referred the matter of the deed of gift of Moses Alexander and others, dated 25th February, 1852, to J. G. Bailey and others, of certain property therein specified, for the use and benefit of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the Diocese of Mississippi, having duly considered the same, submit the following report:

The committee would advise the acceptance of the grant as contained in said deed of the 25th February, 1852.

This committee would also advise and recommend the appointment of the present Vestrymen of St. John's Parish, Early Grove, and their successors in office, Trustees for said property, in lieu of the present Trustees, (they having tendered their resignation of said trust to this Convention) as being the best mode of effecting the ends proposed by the grantors of said deed.

Your committee therefore submit, and recommend to this Convention, the adoption of the following resolutions:

Resolved, That this Convention, accept the deed of gift of Moses Alexander et al, of the 25th February, 1852, to J. G. Bailey et al, trustees, &c., for the purposes therein specified, and with the conditions annexed to the same.

Resolved, That inasmuch as D. A. Abernathy, J. G. Bailey, Caldwell P. Pool, John B. Connelly, and E. G. Franklin, present Trustees of said deed of gift, have tendered to this Convention their resignation of said trust, that the same be and is hereby accepted.

Resolved, That this Convention in pursuance of the power in them vested by said deed of gift, do hereby appoint J. G. Bailey, Caldwell P. Pool, William Parr, Robert J. Baird, Robert A. Baird, W. P. Pool, and John Connelly, present Vestrymen of St. John's Parish, Early Grove, and their successors in office, present Trustees, in lieu of said D. A. Abernathy, J. G. Bailey, Caldwell P. Pool, John B. Connelly, and E. G. Franklin, to do and perform all the objects and purposes of said deed of gift, together with all the conditions annexed thereto.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

C. C. SHACKLEFORD, Chairman. EARLY GROVE, Marshall Co., Miss., April 18, 1861.

We, the undersigned Trustees of the property of St. John's Church, hereby resign our trust, on condition that the Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the Diocese of Mississippi, in whom the right is vested by the deed, do appoint the present Vestrymen of St. John's Church and their successors forever, the Trustees of said Wilson Hall.

D. A. ABERNATHY, J. G. BAILEY, CALDWELL P. POOL, JOHN B. CONNELLY, E. G. FRANKLIN.

A recess was ordered until after Divine Service.

Prayers were read by the Rev. Messrs. Presbury and Weller, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Savage. ONE O'CLOCK, P. M.

The Convention was called to order.

The Committee on the Constitution and Canons, recommended the adoption of the Canon which has been referred to them, entitled

CANON ON RELIGIOUS SERVICES DURING THE CONVENTION.

On motion the proposed Canon was enacted.

The report of the committee on the State of the Church, was presented and read, as follows:

REPORT ON THE STATE OF THE CHURCH.

Our Lord said: “All power is given unto me in Heaven and in earth,” including equally the kingdom of Providence with that of Grace. In the former we must wait for his footsteps as he is pleased to manifest them from time to time. But the latter is already clearly revealed with every line of duty marked and fixed out. We speak of the Church, the pillar and ground of truth, God's house on earth, wherein, and whereby the invisible Christ, and the human soul may meet and be made one. What the true Christ proclaims as the way of salvation must be regarded as the voice and authority of her Ascended Head. Thus her visible progress is, in all reality, the progress of the Redeemer's kingdom in the world.

We look upon this as the greatest of blessings to fallen creatures desirous of knowing and doing the will of the Divine Master. The prosperity of the Church can be found in, and only in submission to the will of God, conformable to his revealed laws, as contained in, and made known by his Church.

And here we would take occasion to say, we may cherish hope sure and steadfast amidst the present troublous times, in which our beloved Zion must more or less share.

When God waketh up to disturb the Nations, we know that He means to separate the evil from the good: and that at such time of all others He requires his own purchased people to be strong in his name, and in the power of his might; trusting to his wisdom out of the whirlwind to bring a calm; by which the cause of Christianity, Morals, Liberty and Improvement shall be vastly benefitted, making his Church with her holy teaching to the world, what the ark of old was to the flood—the savior of those within her enclosure.

Every pious and intelligent churchman will readily understand this, and value the more the opportunity of becoming a member of the same, and thankful withal for any ability which he may possess of being a fellow-laborer in the sacred cause. We may prosper in advancement, without advancing in the right direction, a thing which should be seriously considered.

In this Diocese as informed by the address of our esteemed Bishop, and the Parochial Reports, your committee are happy to state that the Church seems to be in a condition of permanent prosperity.

In some localities she is contending with obstacles common to human events; but through the patient, and we may believe prayerful diligence of her Ministers, and assistance of faithful, brethren, under the blessing of Heaven, the good work still goes encouragingly on. Even where the necessary means are feeble, the root being active and sound, there is reasonable ground to expect that ultimately the vine will abundantly flourish.

Judging from the statistics before us, it is evident that our increasingly settled attachment to our belief and order as a Christian Body, is spreading and deepening with the people, preparing the way for still larger advances. Unfaltering adherence to the Gospel in faith and form, with becoming zeal, and suitable liberality in pecuniary means, will prove labor not in vain in the Lord.

Sorrow may becloud our hearts in the loss of some of our brightest lights and efficient helpers, as it has in the removal by death of a beloved brother Minister, and several laymen.

We miss from our ranks an Ingraham, a Yerger, a Roach, the venerable Turner, and the young, generous and talented Stanton. But He who has thus removed, can replenish again, as he has graciously promised.

The committee would heartily commend attention to Sunday School and Bible Class instruction. They are important means of religion, especially to such as otherwise might be neglected.

And they would also mention that this service should not be so held as to allow sponsors—especially where parents are such—the apology to slide out of their individual and momentous obligations, which, in the name of God. are binding upon them, by thinking they are transferred to other hands. There is no religions instruction like that of home.

And it may be noted that such children as receive parental and sponsorial training are far more frequently, at a proper age, found numbered with the communicants of the Church than any others; a consideration that should deeply impress the mind of every Pastor; and is the more worthy of thought because too often overlooked.

The committee cheerfully join our Right Reverend Father in earnestly urging the obligation the Church and Masters are under to supply our colored population with proper facilities for their spiritual welfare. We should rejoice to see chapels generally established and Ministers employed for this purpose.

The Bishop reports the consecration of churches one. Candidates for orders six. Ordination of Deacons one. Priests three. Institution of Rector one. Transferred to other Dioceses eight. Died one. Entered into the Diocese three. Not canonically attached, seven.

The following is a summary of the Parochial Reports, so far as handed in:

SUMMARY OF PAROCHIAL REPORTS. Families, number of . . . . .691 Baptisms, Adults, white . . . . .72 Baptisms, Adults, colored . . . . .40 Baptisms, Infants, white . . . . .193 Baptisms, Infants, colored . . . . .132 Total . . . . .437 Confirmations, white . . . . .123 Confirmations, colored . . . . .29 Total . . . . .152 Communicants, white . . . . .1066 Communicants, colored . . . . .93 Total . . . . .1159 Communicants, added . . . . .198 Communicants, died . . . . .27 Communicants, removed . . . . .67 Marriages, white . . . . .72 Funerals . . . . .114 Sunday School—Teachers . . . . .102 Sunday School —Scholars . . . . .692 Contributions . . . . .$9536 85 GIDEON B. PERRY, Chairman.

The committee on Diocesan Schools, presented the following report:

REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON DIOCESAN SCHOOLS.

Your committee beg leave to report, that on examination they find several Institutions in connection with the Diocese, and mostly in an encouraging condition.

The first in importance is St. Thomas' Hall, Holly Springs. It is gratifying to report this Institution in a prosperous condition, which may in a great measure justly be attributed to the indefatigable labors of its lamented Rector, the Rev. Dr. Ingraham.

During the past year, the Board of Trustees, duly impressed with the advantages possessed by schools under military organization, have in addition to its scientific and classical departments, made St. Thomas' Hall a Military Academy; and, a gentleman of large experience and well-known ability, Prof. C. W. Sears, a graduate of the U. S. Military Academy; and for many years acting President of the University of Louisiana, has been elected Superintendant of the school. Favored with such an efficient Head, easy of access, and located in one of the healthiest portions of the State, we cordially commend this Institution to the confidence of our brethren in the Diocese at large, who are seeking an establishment of the highest grade for the education of their sons.

The next of which we would speak is, Trinity Female Seminary, Pass Christian. Since our last Convention, this popular Institution has been transferred, by the Rev. Dr. Savage, its former Principal, to Prof. Reuel Keith, a gentleman who had been associated with Lieut. Maury in the National Observatory at Washington, and who brings with him testimonials of the highest order. Notwithstanding the distracted state of the country, the prospects of the Seminary are encouraging, and we doubt not that its present able Principal will continue to maintain that character for the Institution which was so widely known, and so well sustained by his efficient predecessor.

Rose Gates College, an Institution at Okolona, of which the Rev. Dr. Lacey is Principal, has made a good beginning, having in this its first session fifty-six pupils. “With suitable encouragement from the right quarter,” says its veteran Head, “our experiment would, I have no doubt, be successful.” We are glad to state that Wilson Hall is in successful operation under the supervision of the Rev. Willard Presbury, Rector of St. John's Parish.

The course of instruction in this School, is a thorough English education, with the Classics up to the point of preparation for College. We cheerfully commend it to the patronage of the Church.

The committee regret that they are still unable to report any movement towards the erection of an Institution of the first rank for young Ladies, near the City of Jackson. Lying as this project does, so near the heart of our beloved Diocesan, it being “one thing which he desires of the Lord,” to behold such an Institution in operation, ere he departs to his rest, and possessing (as he does) one of the most beautiful sites for such a school which can be found in the State, besides a handsome donation to commence with,— it is to be hoped that the day is not far distant, when “those who are rich in this world,” and have daughters to whom they desire to give a finished and Christian education at, or near home, will come generously forward to the erection of this Institution.

HENRY SANSOM, Chairman.

The standing committee of the Diocese, reported the proceedings of the last Conventional year, as follows:

REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE. July 28, 1860. Testimonials signed in behalf of the Rev. George Stewart, the Rev. Wm. F.Adams, and the Rev. M. Leander Weller, Deacons, for Priest's Orders. Testimonials signed in behalf of John Charles Adams, M. D., for Deacon's Orders. Testimonial signed in behalf of Henry G. Perry, Esq., as a candidate for Holy Orders. Jan. 8, 1861. Summoned as the Bishop's Council of advice, and fully concurred with him as to the necessity of the proposed alterations,—growing out of the change in our civil relations,—in the prayers for the “President” and “Congress.” Testimonial signed in behalf of Edmund Charles Laughlin, as a candidate for Holy Orders, to take effect from September 13, 1860. March 7, 1861. Testimonial signed in behalf of Joseph Booth Lyons, as a candidate for Holy Orders. April 25, 1861. Testimonial signed in behalf of Charles A. Cameron, as candidate for Holy Orders. WM. C. CRANE, Secretary Standing Committee.

The Convention on motion, adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

 THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

The Convention was again called to order.

The COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, presented their report, as follows, and the accompanying resolutions were, on motion, adopted.

FINANCIAL REPORT.

The committee on Finance to whom the account of the Treasurer of the Diocese has been referred, respectfully beg leave to report, that they have examined the same, with the accompanying vouchers, and find it to be correct in every particular.

If affords your committee much satisfaction to find from the report of the Treasurer, that the assessment made by the last Convention upon the several Parishes for the support of the Episcopate, has, in addition to the proceeds arising from the interest on the Endowment Fund, proved fully adequate to the payment of the Bishop's salary for the past year, leaving a balance of $242 23 in the hands of the Treasurer. Some portions of the amount assessed have not yet been collected, but it is believed that these arrearages, as exhibited below, will be mostly paid—thus increasing the balance in the hands of the Treasurer, which will probably be required for necessary repairs on the Episcopal Residence.

Upon a review of the amounts, assessed upon the Parishes, by the last Convention for the support of the Bishop, your committee would recommend a renewal of the last year's assessment upon each, with only one alteration in the apportionment. The assessment we have made on three new Parishes, adds $35 to the aggregate sum, on account of the Bishop's salary.

The committee have also examined the account of the Treasurer of the Convention, and find it entirely correct. It is believed that the assessment made by the last Convention on the various Parishes, to defray the contingent expenses of the Convention, will be sufficient for that purpose, for the ensuing year, and they recommend the continuance of the same.

The following is recommended as the assessment for the Bishop's salary and contingent expenses.

ASSESSMENT. PARISHES. . . . . .BISHOP'S FUND. . . . . .CONTING'T EXPENSES. Trinity Church, Natchez . . . . .$500 00 . . . . .$50 00 Christ Church, Vicksburg . . . . .400 00 . . . . .30 00 St. Andrew's Church, Jackson . . . . .300 00 . . . . .30 00 Christ Church, Church Hill . . . . .260 00 . . . . .30 00 Trinity Church, Pass Christian . . . . .120 00 . . . . .15 00 Christ Church, Holly Springs . . . . .100 00 . . . . .15 00 St. Paul's Church, Woodville . . . . .100 00 . . . . .15 00 St. John's Church, Lake Washington . . . . .100 00 . . . . .15 00 Trinity Church, Yazoo City . . . . .80 00 . . . . .20 00 St. Philip's Church, Kirkwood . . . . .60 00 . . . . .10 00 St. Paul's Church, Columbus . . . . .60 00 . . . . .15 00 Grace Church, Canton . . . . .50 00 . . . . .10 00 St. Andrew's Church, Marshall . . . . .50 00 . . . . .10 00 St. Peter's Church, Oxford . . . . .50 00 . . . . .10 00 Chapel of the Cross, Madison . . . . .40 00 . . . . .10 00 St. John's Church, Early Grove . . . . .30 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Alban's Church, Bovina . . . . .40 00 . . . . .10 00 Epiphany Church, Claiborne . . . . .20 00 . . . . .5 00 St. John's, Church, Aberdeen . . . . .20 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Matthew's Church, Clinton . . . . .20 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Mark's Church, Raymond . . . . .20 00 . . . . .5 00 Calvary Church, Holmes . . . . .20 00 . . . . .5 00 St. John's Church, Annadale . . . . .20 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Luke's Church, Brandon . . . . .15 00 . . . . .5 00 St. John's Church, Pontotoc . . . . .5 00 . . . . .2 50 Messiah Church, Noxubee . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 Ascension Church, Hernando . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 Grace Church, Okolona . . . . .15 00 . . . . .5 00 Christ Church, Monticello . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Mark's Church, Mississippi City . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Luke's Church, Shieldsbrough . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 Church of the Redeemer, Biloxi . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 Church of the Savior, Osyka . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Paul's Church, Grand Gulf . . . . .5 00 . . . . .5 00 Church of the Crucifixion, Yazoo . . . . .5 00 . . . . .5 00 St. James' Church, Port Gibson . . . . .20 00 . . . . .5 00 Church of the Redemption, Hinds . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Barnabas Church, Warrenton . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 St. Stephen's, Panola . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 Church of the Advent, Washington . . . . .15 00 . . . . .5 00 Grace Church, Carrollton . . . . .10 00 . . . . .5 00 Total . . . . .$2,650 00 . . . . .$400 00

The arrearages on the Bishop's salary for the past year, are as follows:

Trinity Church,. . . . . Pass Christian . . . . .$40 00 Christ Church,. . . . . Holly Springs . . . . .50 00 St. Luke's,. . . . . Lake Washington . . . . .280 00 St. John's,. . . . . Early Grove . . . . .30 00 St. John's,. . . . . Aberdeen . . . . .60 00 St. John's,. . . . . Pontotoc . . . . .10 00 Grace Church,. . . . . Okolona, . . . . .10 00 Church of Redemption,. . . . . Biloxi . . . . .10 00 St. Paul's,. . . . . Grand Gulf . . . . .5 00 St. James,. . . . . Port Gibson . . . . .20 00 St. Barnabas,. . . . . Warrenton . . . . .10 00 $525 00

Arrearages on Contingent Fund are as follows:

Christ Church,. . . . . Vicksburg . . . . .$30 00 Trinity,. . . . . Pass Christian . . . . .15 00 Christ,. . . . . Holly springs . . . . .15 00 St. John's,. . . . . Lake Washington . . . . .15 00 Trinity,. . . . . Yazoo City . . . . .20 00 Chapel of the Cross,. . . . . Madison County . . . . .10 00 St. John's,. . . . . Aberdeen . . . . .5 00 St. John's,. . . . . Pontotoc . . . . .5 00 Grace,. . . . . Okolona . . . . .5 00 St. Mark's,. . . . . Mississippi City . . . . .5 00 Redeemer,. . . . . Biloxi . . . . .5 00 St. Paul's,. . . . . Grand Gulf . . . . .5 00 St. James,. . . . . Port Gibson . . . . .5 00 St. John's,. . . . . Early Grove . . . . .5 00 $145 00

The committee recommend the adoption of the following resolutions:

Resolved, 1st. That upon application from St. John's Church, Pontotoc, the assessment be changed from $10 to $5 for Bishop's salary, and $2 50 for contingent expenses; and that the assessment on Grace Church, Okolona, be changed from ten to fifteen dollars on same account.

Resolved, 2d. That the above assessments, as made by committee for Bishop's salary and contingent expenses of the Convention, be adopted and confirmed by this Convention.

Resolved, 3rd. That the foregoing assessments be levied on the Parishes named, for the support of the Episcopate, from July 1st, 1861 to July 1st, 1862, and the contingent expenses of the Convention, and that each Parish be requested to remit to the Treasurer of the Diocese, one-fourth of the said assessment for the Episcopate, on the first of July, October, January and April next; and be further requested to pay the assessment for contingent expenses to the Secretary of the Convention, at least one month before the day fixed for the meeting of the Convention.

Respectfully submitted, T. E. B. PEGUES, Chairman.

The following report of the Special committee appointed to consider a portion of the Bishop's Address, was then presented:

REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON THE BISHOP'S ADDRESS:

The committee to whom was referred that portion of the Bishop's Address in relation to the following circular from the Bishops of Louisiana and Georgia, a copy of which is here given as follows:

“UNIVERSITY PLACE, FRANKLIN COUNTY, TENN., March 22, 1861. Right Reverend and Dear Brother:—

The rapid march of events and the change which has taken place in our civil relations seem to us, your brethren in the Episcopate, to require an early consultation among the Dioceses of the Confederate States, for the purpose of considering their relations to the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States, of which they have so long been the equal and happy members. This necessity does not arise out of any dissension which has occurred within the Church itself, nor out of any dissatisfaction with either the doctrines or discipline of the Church. We rejoice to record the fact that we are to day, as Churchmen, as truly brethren as we have ever been, and that no deed has been done, nor word uttered which leaves a single wound rankling in our hearts. We are still one in Faith, in purpose, and in Hope. But political changes forced upon us by a stern necessity, have occurred, which have placed our Dioceses in a position requiring consultation as to our future Ecclesiastical relations. It is better that those relations should be arranged by the common consent of all the Dioceses within the confederate States, than by the independent action of each Diocese. The one will probably lead to harmonious action; the other might produce inconvenient diversity. We propose to you, therefore, Right Reverend and dear Brother, that you recommend to your Diocesan Convention the appointment of three clerical and three lay Deputies, who, together with the Bishop of the Diocese, shall be delegates to meet an equal number of delegates from each of the Dioceses within the confederate States at Montgomery, in the Diocese of Alabama, on the third day of July next, to consult upon such matters as may have arisen out of the changes in our civil affairs. We have taken it upon ourselves to address you this circular because we happen to be together, and are the senior Bishops of the Dioceses within the confederate States.

Very truly yours in the bonds of the Episcopate, LEONIDAS POLK, Bishop of La. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, Bishop of the Diocese of Georgia. P. S. We have named so late a day as the 3rd of July, because the Diocesan Convention of South Carolina does not meet this year until the 16th day of June. To the Rt. Rev., the Bishop of Mississippi:

Said committee would respectfully report, that they have had the above circular under careful consideration, and concurring heartily in the views and course of action proposed in the same, as eminently wise and judicious, do recommend the adoption of the following resolution:

Resolved, That this Convention do now proceed to elect by ballot three clergymen, and three laymen, who, together with the Bishop, shall be delegates to meet an equal number of delegates from each of the Dioceses within the present Confederate States, and such others as may have joined them by that time, at Montgomery, in the Diocese of Alabama, or at such other place of meeting as may be agreed upon, on the third day of July next, or such other time as shall be agreed upon, to consult upon such matters as may have arisen out of the changes in our civil affairs, and with full power and authority to act for this Diocese in the premises.

All of which is respectfully submitted, DABNEY MINOR, Chairman. JOHN DUNCAN, J. THOMPSON, W. C. CRANE, JAS. A. FOX.

On motion, the foregoing resolution was adopted, and the Convention proceeded to the election of three clerical, and three lay delegates to the proposed Conference at Montgomery. Upon counting the ballots,—

The Rev. W. C. CRANE, the Rev. F. A. P. BARNARD, LL. D., the Rev. HENRY SANSOM, D. D., of the clergy; and Messrs. C. C. SHACKELFORD, JOHN DUNCAN and JACOB THOMPSON of the laity, were found to have the highest number of votes, and declared duly elected.

As alternates there were elected,—

The Rev. JAS. A. Fox, the Rev. BENJAMIN M. MILLER, the Rev. THOS. S. SAVAGE, of the clergy, and Messrs. W. C. SMEDES, T. E. B., PEGUES and JAS. S. JOHNSTON of the laity.

On motion, the following preamble and resolution were adopted:

WHEREAS, It is important that there should be a full attendance of the delegates elected to the Convention to be held in Montgomery, in July next: Therefore,

Resolved, That if within 15 days of said meeting, any one or more of the delegates so elected, shall find it inconvenient to attend at the time appointed, that such delegate or delegates shall give information to the Secretary, who is hereby instructed to supply the vacancy in the delegation out of the alternate elected delegates.

The committee appointed to prepare a suitable testimonial of the appreciation in which their late associate, the Rev. Dr. Ingraham, was held by the members of this Body, presented the following resolutions, which, on motion, were unanimously adopted, by a rising vote:

RESOLUTIONS.

The committee appointed to express the feelings of this Convention, in view of the death of the Rev. Dr. Ingraham, respectfully submit to the Convention the following for its adoption:

WHEREAS, Since the last assembling of our Annual Convention, it has seemed good in the mysterious, but wise dispensations of the great Head of the Church, suddenly to remove from the field one of our most faithful and efficient fellow-laborers: Therefore, be it

Resolved, That the members of this Convention do hereby express their heartfelt sorrow at the loss of the Church militant in the death of their highly respected and beloved Brother in the Ministry, the Rev. J. H. Ingraham, LL. D., late Rector of Christ Church, Holly Springs.

Resolved, That in the painful circumstances connected with his death, and the mysterious fact of his being removed from his labors in the height of his usefulness, we meekly bow in acquiescence to the Providence of God, humbly acknowledging, “It is the Lord, let Him do what seemeth Him good.”

Resolved, That in the death of our beloved Brother , the cause of Christian literature has lost a bright ornament, Christian education one of its warmest and most able supporters, and the Christian Church in the Diocese of Mississippi, one of its most active, persevering, and faithful Ministers.

Resolved, That while we cannot but mourn that so bright a light has been extinguished from the courts of the Lord's house, yet we heartily thank our Heavenly Father for the good example of his servant, the rich blessings bestowed through his ministrations, and that “having finished his course in faith, he now rests from his labors,” praying that we, with him, may have our perfect consummations and bliss, both in body and soul, in the eternal kingdom of our Lord.

Resolved, That we respectfully tender our sincere condolence to the widow and family of our departed Brother, and also to his afflicted parishioners, assuring them of our heartfelt sympathy, and earnest prayers under their severe loss.

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Convention be requested to transmit a copy of these resolutions to the bereaved family, as the sincere, but feeble expression of this Convention.

H. SANSOM, Chairman

On motion, the following preambles and resolutions were unanimously adopted:

WHEREAS, It has pleased God within the last Ecclesiastical year, to remove from time the Hon. Edward Turner, late of Natchez, this Convention to which he has frequently been a delegate, desire to express and record the high estimation they entertain for his character: Therefore,

Resolved, unanimously, That they have ever regarded Judge Turner as a man of sterling moral worth; who, during a long life has filled many civil offices with marked ability; and that in the church of God where he has served as senior Warden to the Honor of his death, he has left the name of a just man and a consistent Christian, which we shall long and affectionately cherish.

WHEREAS, Since our last Annual Convention, it has pleased Almighty God to remove from the Church on earth, our beloved Brother James Roach: Therefore,

Resolved, That the members of this Convention do hereby express their high appreciation of the valuable services rendered to the Convention and the Church in this Diocese, by the deceased, for a long period of years, during which he faithfully served the Diocese as its Treasurer.

Resolved, That the character of the deceased, as an efficient and useful officer of the Convention, and as a consistent and exemplary Christian, always ready to aid, with a warm heart and liberal hand, every effort to advance the interests of the Ghurch, is worthy of imitation, and his services and virtues are held in grateful remembrance.

On motion,

Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention be tendered to the Methodist and Baptist congregations in this city for the kind offer of their church buildings for religious services to-morrow.

On motion.

Resolved, That the hearty thanks of this Convention be and are hereby tendered to the Parishioners of Christ Church, and the citizens of Holly Springs, for their kindness and hospitality to the members of this Convention during its session.

On motion,

Resolved, That the Secretary be authorized to have printed 1,000 copies of the Journal of this Convention.

On motion, it was ordered that the proceedings of the annual meeting of the Diocesan Missionary Society be printed with the Journal.

On motion, it was unanimously

Resolved, That the Bishop be and hereby is requested to appoint a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer, to be observed throughout the Diocese, in view of the unnatural war which has been proclaimed against the Confederate States, and of the many great dangers with which as a Nation we are threatened.

Whereupon, the Bishop appointed for this observance Friday, the 17th of May, 1861.

No further business appearing before the Convention, a motion to adjourn prevailed.

The Rt. Rev. Bishop of the Diocese then delivered a closing address, and after prayer, and benediction, declared the Thirty-fifth Annual Convention of the Diocese of Mississippi, adjourned sine die.

WM. CROES CRANE, Secretary. CHRIST CHURCH, HOLLY SPRINGS, SUNDAY, APRIL 28, 1861.

At 11 A. M.—Morning Prayer was said by the Rev. Messrs. Fox and Miller, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Mr. Crane. Ten persons were confirmed, and the Holy Communion was administered by the Bishop, assisted by the Rev. Messrs. Fox, Miller, and Crane. The proceeds of the offertory were appropriated to the Missions of the Diocese.

At 4 P. M.—Evening Prayer was said by the Rev. Dr. Savage, and the Rev. Mr. Boyd, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Perry. Holy Baptism was administered by the Bishop to one adult and three infants.

At 8 P. M.—The Service was performed by the Rev. Messrs. Rottenstein and Crane, and a Sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Sansom. Two persons were confirmed.

The Baptist and Methodist Houses of Worship, having been kindly offered to the Convention, after Morning Prayer at 11 o'clock, a Sermon was preached in the former, by the Rev. Dr. Perry, and in the latter by the Rev. Mr. Fontaine.

At 8 P.M., after Evening Prayer, a Sermon was preached in the Methodist Church, by the Rev. Mr. Miller.

 APPENDIX. BISHOP'S JOURNAL AND ADDRESS DEAR BRETHREN:

An eventful year has passed over us since we last took counsel together. Our political sky has for some time been overcast by clouds of the most threatening aspect; but a strong and merciful arm has thus far either suspended or turned aside their bolts. The revolution which has been forced upon us, has been effected in a manner no less wonderful than grateful to every heart. What may yet be in reserve for us, we cannot tell. In the hands of the wise and merciful God of Nations, we must leave our country, with the earnest supplications of Christian hearts, and the firm resolves of patriots trusting in the righteousness of their cause.

But whilst the State is thus passing through the fires of a painful revolution, how thankful should we be that the Church is at peace; and that although our political relations towards our brethren with whom we have hitherto so lovingly associated have been severed, no change of name, of government, or national interest; will be able to lessen our affection for them as fellow-members with us of the One, Holy, and Apostolic Communion which is in Christ Our Lord. If a separate and independent Ecclesiastical organization shall be demanded by the change in our political relations, it will exhibit to the world a division with out dissension, a separation without injury to the respective parts, a parting of brothers amid tears of affection, and with a mutual commending of each other to God.

In what a beautiful light will such action exhibit the Catholic Spirit of the Church. Unmoved by the changes and chances of the political world, she pursues the even tenor of her way, holding forth to every age and nation the bread of God, untainted by the leaven of party strife, and rich in all the blessings of a purchased redemption.

But whilst we thankfully bless God for the peace and quietness and unbroken love in our Zion, we cannot but mournfully call to mind the late chastening of his hand in taking from a Sister Diocese her beloved Bishop. Of this dearly-beloved Brother, I cannot here say less than that so long as a meek and gentle spirit, a loving heart, a judicious head, an ardent zeal to win souls to Christ, and a firm and consistent maintenance of the principles of the Church shall be valued, so long will the name of Cobbs be associated in memory with those of Andrews and Hall, and Ken, and Leighton, and Griswold.

Nor has our own Diocese been without a like visitation. In the death of the late Pastor of this Church, in which we are now assembled, we have lost an active and efficient laborer, whose place it will be difficult to fill.

(May, 6th.) Next succeeding our last Convention, I instituted the Rev. William C. Crane into the Parish of St. Andrew's as Rector of the same. The sermon of the occasion was preached at my request by the Rev. Dr. Ingraham. This I believe is the first time that this impressive and appropriate rite has been performed in this Diocese. Much is the neglect of it to be deplored. When our people shall have lost their present roving spirit, and acquired the strong and hereditary local attachments of our brethren of the older Dioceses, it is to be hoped that every Parish capable of giving a comfortable support to a Minister will thus add the sanctions of this holy office to the bonds which bind them and their Pastor to each other.

On the following Friday, (May 11th) I set out on a visitation of some of the upper river counties.

On Lake Washington remained four days, visiting the several families of St. John's Parish.

Sunday, (13th:) Preached to a moderately sized congregation in the Church; and in the afternoon to a large and attentive assemblage of blacks, at Mr. C. F. Hampton's. The interests of the Church at this place have been for some years at a stand, if not declining, for the want of a Pastor. A new zeal however has lately been infused into them through the active exertions of two Ladies of the congregation: a sufficient salary has been subscribed for the support of a Minister, and measures begun for immediately building or purchasing a Rectory.

On Tuesday, (15th.) I passed up by land to Greenville, and preached in the Court-house on the following Friday evening. On my way I was pleased to find several Church families, and to hear them express their earnest desire to bring the ministrations of the Church within their reach. After spending two days in visiting in the neighborhood of Greenville, and baptizing three children, I passed over to Deer Creek, where I preached twice—on Sunday 20th, (in the forenoon to the whites, and in the afternoon to the blacks,) baptized one adult and one child, and confirmed one person. The next day I baptized two other children. I was pleased to see in the congregation generally, a desire to obtain the regular services of a Minister, if it were only for one half his time. And assurances were given me that the necessary amount would be promptly raised. An equal amount was pledged by the friends of the Church around Greenville, for the other half of his services.

On my way up the Creek, on the 22nd I administered authoritative baptism to an adult, who had been already confirmed, but who had since become justly dissatisfied with her previous baptism by one of the sects.

May, 23rd. I visited the plantation of Alex Hamilton Polk, and baptized one white adult, and twenty-one colored children.

May 24th. I confirmed one white adult and baptized one white infant; and on same day, baptized forty-nine colored children, nearly all of whom were the property of Hon. William Yerger.

Want of time prevented me from visiting several friends and families of the Church in that neighborhood.

On Friday 25th. I reached the residence of Gen. Grant, in Coahoma County, but did not preach, as the uncertain movements of the steamboats had made me unwilling to risk an appointment beforehand.

Sunday, 27th. I was enabled to reach Friar's Point, just as the congregation had assembled. Quite a large number was in attendance, as this was the first time that many present had ever witnessed our services. There are three or four families in this neighborhood attached to the Church; but they do not feel themselves strong enough to make any effort towards obtaining a Minister, or erecting a place of worship.

Wednesday, 30th. I reached Hernando. I preached the next day, and confirmed three persons:—one very aged candidate having received that rite in private, on the previous evening.

I was pleased to see that the zealous labors of Mr. Weller are likely to be no less beneficial than acceptable to this Parish.

On Friday, 31st. I preached at Senatobia, some fifteen miles lower down the M.& Tennessee R. Road, in a storehouse temporarily fitted up for religious services. The room was well filled with a large and orderly congregation. The subject of my discourse, on this, as on several previous occasions, when visiting a place for the first time, was, “The Church of Christ in its divine and authoritative character.” I was listened to with deep attention, and without offence to any. In the afternoon, at the request of a Christian friend, I made an address to his pupils in the Female Academy.

Saturday, June 1st. I preached in the Presbyterian place of worship at Sardis, to a small congregation;—there being two other places of worship open at the same hour within a short distance. A worthy lady from Virginia, together with her two daughters, make up the “few names” which the Church has in this place.

The same evening I reached Panola; but was compelled immediately to take to my bed, as the fever against which I had been struggling for three days, demanded attention. The prompt medical aid which I received enabled me to preach once the next day, to confirm seven persons, and to preside at a meeting of the friends of the Church, for the purpose of organizing a Parish. This object was affected under most encouraging circumstances. A Vestry was formed of nine of the principal citizens of the place; and the name of the first Martyr for Christ, (St. Stephen) was adopted for their Parish. A Church Sunday School was organized at the same time by the appointment of a well-qualified Superintendent; and a sufficient sum contributed for the purchase of a library and books of instruction. A liberal friend of the Church offers a spacious and beautiful lot for a Church and Burying ground; and it is hoped that the congregation will not be long without a House to offer unto God.

My remaining appointments for this visitation were for Oxford, Coffeeville, Brooke's Chapel, Grenada, and Carrollton. But I was so worn down by the labors of the last three weeks, and by the heat of the sun, that I felt compelled most reluctantly to recal them, and hasten home.

Sunday, June 10th. I assisted the Rev. Mr. Crane in the services of the morning, and preached for him at night.

Friday, 15th. I was this day, by appointment, to visit St. Philip's Church, Kirkwood, but was detained at home by sickness.

Saturday, 16th. Gave “Letters Dimissory” in favor of Rev. B. R. S. Bœmond, to the Missionary Bishop of Arkansas.

Saturday, 23rd. Visited Monticello, where I preached the next day in the Court-house, and confirmed one person. The condition of this little flock, as well as the interests of the place generally, has suffered much by the removal of a large part of its population. Were it not for the active and zealous exertions of one devoted layman (Judge Vannerson), there would at this time be scarcely a remnant left to us. The few who remain are ready, according to the full measure of their ability, to contribute to the support of a Missionary.

Thursday, 28th. In St. Andrew's Church, united a couple in the holy estate of matrimony.

Friday, 29th. Visited the Artesian Springs; and during a brief stay, baptized two infants.

Saturday, 30th. I reached Kirkwood, and preached twice the next day:—in the forenoon to the white congregation, and to the blacks in the afternoon. On the former occasion three persons were confirmed. Before the commencement of the morning service, I made a short address to the Rector's Sunday School, and examined them on a part of the Church Catechism. I was gratified not only at finding this rural Parish in a healthy condition, but at witnessing the prosperous state of the Rector's School. No more suitable place than this could well be desired by Parents for the education of their daughters. The admitted healthfulness of the spot, its seclusion from all temptations to misspend either money or time, the very limited number of pupils,—the refined society with which they associate in their leisure hours,—and the advantages for religious instruction which they abundantly enjoy, joined to the well-known abilities and conscientious devotion of Mr.& Mrs. Downing to the welfare of their charge;—all these combine to make no small claim upon the attention of Parents and Guardians.

July, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th—Was spent in the Parish of the Chapel of the Cross. Although several families of the congregation had left home for the Summer, the attendance on Sunday, 8th, was large both in the forenoon and afternoon. This Parish has now been without a Pastor for several months. The Rev. Dr. Sansom, after laboring among them most efficiently as well as faithfully for nearly seven years, felt called to take in its place a new and more promising field, viz: St. Alban's, Warren County. The good effect of his ministrations to this colored flock were abundantly manifested on the present occasion. As many as could obtain seats pressed into the services of the morning; and the Church was crowded in the afternoon by a throng of apparently eager listeners and devout worshippers. With the exception of the “Psalter, the full Evening Service was performed by them.” Every required response was promptly and correctly made. The “Confession” and “Lord's Prayer” and “Creed,” were repeated distinctly and with one voice. And the Anthems (“Jubilate and Benedict”) were chanted with a heartiness that might well put to shame the listless indifference with which many a congregation amongst us leaves that most beautiful and devotional part of our stated worship to a band of hired singers, or at best, to a select choir; as though the praise from proxied lips were a fit offering to Him who can be worshipped only in spirit and in truth. During the services, two colored children were baptized; and one person was confirmed. Several others were desirous of receiving this holy rite, but had not as yet obtained the consent of their owners. On leaving the Church, the question was put to me by many voices, “When will you send us another Minister?”—with the addition, “Please send us one like Mr. Sansom.”

I was no little pleased before I left the Parish, to learn that a sufficient sum had been subscribed for erecting a Schoolhouse, as well as a Rectory, and that the work will soon be begun.

Sunday, 15th. I assisted the Rev. Mr. Crane in the services of the morning; and in the afternoon preached at the Lunatic Asylum. The order and quietness of these afflicted creatures was equal to that of the most highly favored congregation. How far they entered into the prayers and praises of the occasion, or how much they comprehended of the Word preached to them, is known only to Him who, for his own wise purposes, has been pleased to darken and obstruct the avenues to their understanding.

Thursday, 19th. At the request of Rev. Mr. Crane, I gave the blessing of Confirmation to two of his Parishioners in private.

Friday, 20th. Gave “Letters Dimissory,” in favor of Rev. John Gierlow, to the Ecclesiastical Authority of Diocese of Louisiana.

Friday, 27th. I baptized in St. Andrew's Church, two adults and two infants,—the Rector acting as one of the sponsors and witnesses.

Saturday, 28th. I received Henry G. Perry as a Candidate for Orders.

Sunday, 29th. In St. Andrew's Church, Jackson, I conferred the office of Priesthood upon the Rev. M. Leander Weller, and Rev. William F. Adams; and gave Deacon's Orders to John Charles Adams, M. D. The Sermon was preached, at my request, by the Rev. Dr. Sansom; the Candidates being presented by Rev. Mr. Crane, and the Rev. Mr. Elwell, assisting in the services.

Friday, August 3rd. Confirmed one person in St. Andrew's Church.

Sunday, 5th. I was, by appointment to have been in Shieldsborough, on this day; but was providentially detained at home by the extreme illness of one of my family.

Thursday, 9th. Transferred the Rev. Gilbert B. Hayden to Diocese of Michigan.

Friday, 24th. Conducted Evening Prayers for Rev. Mr. Crane in St. Andrew's Church, and baptized an infant son of the Rev. T. D. Ozanne.

Sunday, 26th. I preached in the same Church, and confirmed two persons.

Sunday, Sept. 2nd. Was spent in attendance on the fast-failing health of one as dear to my soul as mortal could be. And on the following Lord's Day, surrounded by the children whom God had given us, I commended her departing spirit to Him who gave it, and had washed it from all stain in his own most precious blood. “It is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him good.”

Sept. 14th. Admitted Edmund C. Laughlin as a Candidate for the Ministry.

The remainder of this month was, by appointment, to have been given to the several places in the Gulf Coast. On my way through, New Orleans, I was taken with the “Dengue,” and received also such accounts of the difficulty of reaching those places since the then recent and unprecedented storm as compelled me to return home.

Sunday, Oct. 1st. I was to have been at St. Alban's, but was providentially prevented. This I deeply regretted at the time, as a large class of Candidates, both black and white, had been prepared for the rite of Confirmation.

On the following Wednesday, (3rd) I visited that Parish, and, confirmed such of the Candidates as could be got together upon so short a notice. The weather was unfavorable, and the congregation small. Being too weak to stand, I made an address to the Candidates from my chair, and then gave the “Laying on of Hands” to seven whites and one colored person.

Monday, 2nd. I united a couple in matrimony, in St. Andrew's Church.

Friday, 5th. I set out for Sewanee, to attend the Laying of the Corner-Stone of the “University of the South.”

Saturday and Sunday, (the 6th and 7th) were spent at Corinth. On my way I was joined by the Rev. Mr. Douglas of Louisiana, who kindly took upon himself much of the labor which I would otherwise have had to perform. Divine Service was held twice on Saturday, and three times on Sunday. Although “in much weakness,” I was enabled to preach twice, to confirm two persons, and to administer the Holy Communion. The Rev. William H. Burton, who has been in charge of the Parish about six months, appears to be laboring with much acceptableness to this little flock, and to one or two of the adjoining villages. The chief obstacle in the way of his progress, is the want of a suitable place of worship. One half of the sum necessary for erecting a becoming Temple for the Lord, has been subscribed; for the other half appeal must be made to the larger and more favored Parishes of the Diocese.

From Corinth I proceeeed to the chosen site of the “University of the South,” where the Trustees had been summoned to meet for the two-fold purpose of laying the Corner-Stone of the first and principal building, and of perfecting and ratifying the Constitution and Statutes informally adopted at a previous meeting, Both of these objects, I am thankful to say, were accomplished under the benignant smile of an overruling Providence. Of the particulars of that day which witnessed the Laying of the first stone of our magnificent enterprize, I will not here speak. You may have learned them long since from almost every public print in our land. This only will I say, that so long as Learning, and Religion, and Patriotism, and the Church of God, shall have a place in the hearts of our countrymen, so long will the 10th of October, 1860, be remembered with a gratitude no words can express, and which will gather strength with each successive age. The Constitution and Statutes, as then amended and adopted, are herewith laid upon your table, to receive, as I trust, the same measure of approbation from this body individually and collectively which has been already cheerfully accorded not only by other portions of our Church, but by the voice of public opinion, and the general consent of the Learned Educationists, both of our own and of foreign lands. Nothing now seems wanting to full and speedy success but the increase of our subscription list so auspiciously begun a year or two ago. Let me here repeat the confident hope which I have heretofore and often expressed, that when the Authorized Agents of that noble enterprize shall present its claims upon the friends of Education and of the Church in Mississippi, we shall not fall behind the example which has been set us in our neighboring Dioceses.

On my way home I spent a day (Tuesday, 16th) at Holly Springs, for the purpose of looking into the condition of St. Thomas' Hall. And I here record with thankfulness, the pleasure experienced in finding this adopted child of the Diocese once more in a healthy state, and with every promise of strength and growth. The untiring exertions of the Rev. Dr. Ingraham to repair and beautify the premises, and to re-fit and furnish the interior have been crowned with deserved success. Nor has he been less favored in securing the services of a suitable Superintendent. The reputation which Mr. Sears brings with him from other and like institutions, affords the fullest recommendation and guaranty to the Parents and Guardians within our Diocese. Already has he made an auspicious beginning. Let me earnestly commend both him and his work to the patronage of the Diocese.

Sunday, 21st. I had sent out an appointment for this day at Osyka; but finding that it had failed to reach its destination, I remained at home, and assisted the Rector of St. Andrew's in the services of the day.

Wednesday, 24th. In much feebleness of health, I set out on my Eastern Visitation, and reached Enterprize the following morning at 3 o'clock.

My first appointment, as arranged by Rev. Mr. Stewart, was for “State Line Depot,” near the Southern end of the “Mobile and Ohio R. Road.” On reaching that place, I found that no notice had been given for any services. Two days of rest and quiet thus allowed me, were pleasantly and I trust not unprofitably spent with the family of Col. Gaines.

Sunday and Monday, 28th and 29th. Were given to Enterprize. Owing to increased indisposition, I preached once only;—but was enabled to visit many of the families of the place and neighborhood. One person was confirmed. There is not here much wealth among our friends; but there is not wanting a zealous affection for the Church of Christ. If they could only erect a suitable place of worship for themselves, they could not fail to prosper and increase. The Rev. Mr. Stewart resides here, but does not give to them much more than a fourth of his time, having also in charge seven other places along the line of the R. Road.

I next visited Quitman on the 30th, but was too unwell to officiate. Mr. Stewart preached in my stead on Tuesday night in the Baptist Place of Worship. With regular monthly or semi-monthly services, a congregation zealous in spirit, though small in numbers, might be gathered in this village. As in many other places, the undue excitement practised and encouraged by some of the sects is here evidently preparing the way for the subdued devotion of our Liturgy, and the sound teachings of our Pulpit.

On Thursday, 1st of December. I was to officiate at Meridian; but the continued rain of that day, joined to the feeble state of my health, prevented my meeting the appointment.

The following Sunday, 4th. Was given to Marion Depot. I preached in the forenoon, Mr. Stewart assisting in the services, and preaching also in the afternoon.

The days of rest enjoyed in the neighborhood of this place, under the roof of Judge Chapman, were of much benefit to me, enabling me with improved health to proceed on my visitation.

My appointment for Lauderdale Springs, fell unfortunately on the day of the Presidential Election. I at first determined that I would make no attempt to collect a congregation out of such an excited multitude; but subsequently resolved to attend at the appointed hour. Some thirty or forty persons were present, and gave close attention to both Sermon and Services, as well as to the rite of Confirmation which was administered to one of their number, and to the Sacrament of Baptism administered to an infant.

Accompanied by Mr. Stewart, I reached DeKalb on Thursday, 8th. Services had been appointed for both that day and the next, but a cold and incessant rain prevented us from calling the people together. On the evening (9th) before our departure, a small congregation, consisting chiefly of the Pupil's of Mrs. Hampton, was collected in that Lady's parlor. After services by Mr. Stewart, I made an address to the young people, and confirmed two of their number. We were compelled by other engagements to leave the place the next morning, without any opportunity for public services, or for visiting the people.

Saturday and Sunday, 10th and 11th. Were given to the Church of the Messiah. Assisted by Mr. Stewart, I preached on Sunday, and administered the Holy Communion. In the afternoon the rite of Confirmation was administered to one of the congregation, at his own house, and in the presence of a number of his friends and neighbors. This Parish is evidently on the increase. Several Church families have recently been added to the neighborhood;—a general desire to do what they can for Christ prevails throughout the congregation,—and their neat little Church, though erected but a few years ago, proves already too small for their ordinary congregations. Still more good might be effected in this rural parish if the Rev. Mr. Stewart could give to it a larger portion of his time. But this cannot be done until another Missionary can be found to take off his hands one half of the places at which he now officiates.

From this place I passed accompanied by Mr. Stewart, to Columbus, on Monday, the 12th. At Columbus, I was pleased to meet, beside the Rector, the Rev. Messrs. Wattson and Clute, and the Rev. Dr. Barnard. Divine Service was held twice a day—on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, each of the Clergy preaching in turn. On Thursday, the new Church edifice, (St. Paul's) was solemnly consecrated and set apart to the service of Almighty God, the Rev. Dr. Barnard, by request, preaching the Sermon for the occasion. Of this building I have before spoken as one that would grace even the largest and wealthiest of our cities. It is indeed a matter of wonder as well as of thankfulness, that a congregation so small, and by no means abounding in wealth, should have been able to erect such a Temple for their use. The number assembled on this occasion was more than the building could contain, and appeared to be duly impressed with the solemnity and appropriateness of the Consecration Services.

On Friday, the 15th. I gave to the Rev. George Stewart, (Deacon) authority to execute the office of Priest in the Church of God. In both the Ordination and Communion Services, I was assisted by Rev. Messrs. Barnard, Gibson and Clute. The sermon was preached by myself. During the services of those four days, seven persons renewed in Confirmation the solemn vows taken upon them in their baptism. On looking back to the condition of this Parish as I first saw it ten years ago, I could not but feel truly thankful for what God has been pleased to do for it. Many and severe have been its trials; and often have its few but faithful hearts been tempted to despair. Now they have reason to praise God for his goodness, and may take courage to press on in his service. The energetic labors of their present Pastor can hardly fail bringing a blessing to them.

On Saturday, 17th. I reached Aberdeen, in company with Rev. Dr. Barnard. Mr. Gibson, having preceded us, preached twice that day. Of the three sermons preached the next day, (Sunday 18th) two were by Dr. Barnard, and one by myself. Seven persons were confirmed. Signs of progress were plainly visible in this Parish. In no congregation of the Diocese is true pastoral care and the sound teachings of the Church likely to meet with a richer reward.

From Aberdeen I proceeded to Okolona, accompanied by Messrs. Barnard and Gibson. Services were held in the Church on Tuesday and Wednesday, (20th and 21st) the rain preventing anything of the kind on Thursday. On Wednesday afternoon I preached to the blacks in St. Cyprian's Chapel, but was not gratified, as on former occasions, by seeing a goodly number of them coming forward for Confirmation. This, however, is not to be wondered at, as they have had but little pastoral attention during the past year; and for the last five months have been without any religious services. They were as usual, deeply attentive to the words spoken, and, my heart yearned for another and a speedy opportunity of preaching Christ to them. I was glad to make such arrangement with Rev. Mr. Clute, before I left the Parish, as will secure to them for the present year a portion of his services. On Friday morning, although the rain and the cold combined to prevent it, a small number met me at the Church, when one person was confirmed. The address to the Candidate was made to take the place of a more formal discourse.

During my stay in the Parish, I twice visited “Rose Gates College,” in charge of Rev. Dr. Lacey. The progress of this important and promising Institution has been materially retarded by the unfaithfulness of the mechanics employed, and by the amount of indebtedness which the Trustees have been forced to incur in order to complete the buildings. Were this debt paid, there would be no perceptible hindrance to its rapid advancement, as the known ability and long experience of Dr. Lacey in conducting such an Institution can hardly fail to attract pupils, now that he is ready to receive them. It was my intention to visit the College once more before I left the Parish, and to address the Pupils, but the unusual inclemency of the weather prevented it. Much praise is due not only to Col. Gates for presenting to the Church the grounds and unfinished building, but to the Trustees also for their exertions towards completing and fitting it for use. In this labor of love they deserve the aid as well as the approbation of their brethren in other parts of the Diocese.

I reached Pontotoc on Friday Evening, (23rd) and next morning together with four members of the family, with whom I was staying, went to officiate in the Church according to appointment. After waiting a long time for others to join us, we had to ourselves the enjoyment of our excellent, soul-inspiring Liturgy. The intense coldness of the day, together with the sickness of some of the congregation, accounted for the absence of the rest.

On Sunday, (25th) I preached both in the forenoon and at night. My heart was much drawn out for this little flock. Among them are some true worshippers of God, and some dear lovers of his Church; but they have not the ability to support a Pastor. For some years past they have, by associating with Okolona, enjoyed a portion of a Minister's services. But within the last year the Rev. Mr. Clute has determined to give all his time to the congregation at Okolona. They are thus left without any opportunity of uniting their common supplications unto God, and of hearing His Word. I could only promise to pray for them, and to serve them as God's Providence might hereafter put it in my power.

On Monday, (26th) after a ride of twelve hours in the cold and rain, I reached Oxford, on my way to several of the lower Parishes.

Wednesday, (28th) was spent in visiting some families in Grenada, and it's vicinity. On Thursday, I officiated at a private residence eight miles distant, baptizing and confirming one adult, and delivering an address on the nature of those holy Ordinances. I was accompanied by the Rev. Dr. Adams, who assisted in the services of the occasion. In this neighborhood are several highly intelligent families attached to the doctrine and worship of the Church. I hope that with prompt and united action they will ere long provide themselves with a suitable House of Worship, as well as assist in rearing one in Grenada.

At eight o'clock that same evening, I preached in Grenada, in the Methodist Church, kindly offered for that purpose. The time has not quite come for the establishment of our services in this place; but I have a confident hope that that day is not far distant. The Rev. Dr. Adams has officiated here some three or four times only; but will increase his services after the present year.

From Grenada I proceeded to Carrollton, visiting several families by the way, as well as after arriving in that place.

On Saturday night, and twice on Sunday, (Dec. 2nd) I preached in the Presbyterian Church, kindly tendered for the occasion. On the forenoon of Sunday, the holy rites of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Lord's Supper, were administered. And our services, though unusually lengthened out, were witnessed with patient and deep attention by crowded congregations. During my stay, I had the gratification of Confirming five persons, and giving authoritative baptism to four children and four adults who had previously received that Sacrament only in its forms. Three others were prepared for the Apostolic “Laying on of Hands,” but were absent from unavoidable causes. It is only five months since the Rev. Dr. Adams assumed the Missionary charge of this place; but already is he beginning to see the fruit of his zealous labors and sound instructions. Avoiding on the one hand, all temporizing expedients to win popular favor, and on the other whatever might needlessly offend public opinion, or wound the feelings of a Christian brother, he has presented the Church to that people, in her integrity as well as her purity, without the least mutilation of her services, or concealment of her doctrines. The result of this has so far been a degree of favor and success not often met with under ordinary circumstances. Much inconvenience, if not hindrance, must for some time be endured by his little flock, from the want of a House of Worship of their own. Up to the present time, the Courthouse has been their only place of assembling together. But already their thoughts are beginning to turn towards the erection of a becoming Temple to the Lord. May his blessing accompany and crown their intent.

A few miles after leaving the town, I stopped by the way-side, and administered Confirmation to a member of the congregation who was prevented from attending the services of the preceding day.

A short time after Dr. Adams' arrival, a Parish was duly organized, under the title of “Grace Church.”

Monday, (3rd.) I reached Calvary Parish, having been joined by Rev. Mr. Halsted, on the way. The two following days were days of comparative rest.

On Thursday, the 6th. I preached to a large and deeply attentive congregation; baptized one adult, and Confirmed six persons. Of the number thus taking upon themselves the vows of a holy life, three were heads of families, and a fourth was the mother of six children. During my stay in the Parish, I was enabled to visit most of the families belonging to it.

Friday, 7th, found me in the neighborhood of Sidon, on the Yazoo River. In this place Mr. Halsted had preached some three or four times, and excited among several families a desire to know more of the Church, and to enjoy her ministrations. At his request I had consented to accompany him at this time, and see for myself what could be done to meet the wants of so intelligent a people,—a people that seemed indeed to be in need of nothing but the sound teaching and valid ordinances of the Church of God. Saturday and Monday were spent pleasantly, and I hope, not unprofitably in visiting most of the families in the neighborhood. On Sunday, I preached above Sidon, in a house built not many years since for the use of all denominations, but like most of such buildings fallen sadly to decay, with no special claim upon any one to keep it in repair. The congregation, though not large, was very attentive, and apparently much interested in the discourse, which was intended to set before them the nature of Christ's Church, and the Scriptural and Apostolic character of that branch of it at whose altar we serve. I am not without hope that the wealthy and intelligent families residing within reach of this place will, ere long, by erecting a becoming House for God's Worship supply almost the only desideratum which their present blessings leave them room to ask for.

On my way home I spent a day in the Parish of Grace Church, and baptized one infant.

On Friday, the 14th of December, I reached Jackson, after a laborious visitation of nearly eight weeks, undertaken in feeble health, and carried on in great weakness, and through much unfavorable weather. Truly thankful was I not only for the measure of ability which had been afforded me to meet nearly all of my appointments, but to find my health better at the end than at the beginning of my journey.

Sunday, 16th, I assisted the Rev. Mr. Crane in the Services of the morning.

The day following, I was summoned unexpectedly and painfully to Holly Springs, to witness the last moments of my worthy and much-loved Presbyter, the Rev. Joseph H. Ingraham,