The independent press. (Abbeville C.H., S.C.) 1853-1860, 1857-07-31
Bishop Morris on Political Clergymen.

Bishop Morris, of the Methodist Episcopal
Chusch, at the recent session of the Maine Con-
ference, delivered an address to the mentbars,
in the course of which he said:
deom it not nn important or out of place
to address few words to you, my brethren,
upon subject which is attracting considera-
BILE attention ct the present time, namely -
as to how far n minister Of the gospel ought to
take part in the politics of the day. When a
minister goes into his pulpit, he finds his con.
gregation composed ef men of different polit-
ical views, of men zcalously and conscienti
ously attached to different political parties :;
and if he publicly becomes tho partizan of one.
side or the other, there will of necessity
springs up GOODNESS forwards him to dimin-
ish his influence. feel convinced from what
! have observed that the only result that can
be expected from minister taking part in
the political contests and discussions of the
day will be engendered strife and hard feeling
in his congregation.
But some may ask, whether we are not citi-
zcns like other men, and have not duties to per-
form as suchl Most certai My we are, and
trust l have not proved recreant to the obll-
cations resting upon me as citizen, although
have not, for the forty years that have
been i'll the ministry ever entered political
meeting, or spent above five minutes at any
one election. have always made it point
TO go to the polls at the most quiet time of the
day, when there was likely to be the least ex-
citement-to deposit my ballot in an unosten.
tatious nanner, and return home l have new
or seen the time when thought was called
upon as citizen to do more than this. know
not how it may be with others, but have al.
ways found enough to do in the duties of nv
calling. am willing to "let the potsherds,s
but prefer myself to attend to the duties de.
volving upon mo as minister of Christ re.
who was stationed 70 preach the gospel to the
people in fountain Head Circuit" near the
hermitage of the late President jackson in the
exciting political times of his second election
Party was just then at its height, and each par
! ty wanted every one to be on its side They
eagerly inquired of him whose side he was on
I am.on the side of the Lord and the Fouu
tain Head Circuit, was his reply. Whicisso
! the candidates do you vote for T. 81 trus
t4asI shall be foundsapon my knees, praying
4 to P9d1 Tor the.conversion fSksinners and thu
\ kupbpttding ofZion in Fountaih Head Circuit,
HoWtusr they might question the devoted min
4 ister he would wisely answer that hsspneant q
do his duty faithfully as a Minister Of Christ /,
Fountain Head Circuit" In conclusion, le
me, say my brethren, go, ye and DO liksaise.
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