The central Presbyterian. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1856-1908, 1869-06-30
From the Presbyterian and Index.
Widows and Orphans of Deceased Ministers.

New York, June, 1862
Mr.. Editor: The April number of the South
ern Presbyterian RecieW contains an article from
the pen of Rev. Z. Cater, of College Hill, Miss,
entitled "A Plea in behalf of the Widows and
Orphans of Deceased Ministers" of our Church.
The topic is peculiarly interesting, and | have
twice read the articlc-which does not suggest any
practical answer to the plea however Itappears
to be resume Of the various efforts put forth in
this direction by Christian people, and an account
of the failure Of all these schemes. The recon-
mendation to the Assembly to give the matter in
charge OF committee, to be organised like the
other committees Of the Church. brings us no
nearer to the solution of the problem; which is,
perhaps, more difficult of solution than any that
are presented for the consideration of our Secrc-
taries.
Independently of the claims of ministers fam
ilies,-over the families of private members of the
church, the very terms, widowhood aud orphan
age, at once arrest the attention and elicit the
sympathies of all people with human hearts,
But, as Mr. Cater very forciby sets forth, the
faithful preacher Of the word cannot engage in
secular avocations, by which men in private life
make provision for their wives and children. A
thousand opportunities for the requirement OF
money are offered to these, while the duties of
minister absorbing his attention constantly, pre-
vent him from availing himself of similar oppor
tunities Indeed, the theory Of Presbyterianism
is against it, if the thing were possible. The form
of our call OF pastor, expressly recognises this
fact
Another fact demands attention, viz, that no
occupation yielding annual revenue, produces so
little money as that of the gospel ministry 1t is
the least profitable employment known in America.
There are some few, and very few, exceptions to
this rule; but If you will take tho Of III The
salaries paid to ministers in our Church. you will
find it less in amount than the average wages Of
day laborers by dividing the number of men en-
gagged in the work, into the total product of their
labors. Except in large city churches, the first
consideration in calling pastor is: How little
money can he exist upon? Is he married? How
many children has he? Can he exc out liveli-
hood by teaching school? etc. This seems to be
harsh statement, but every one of your readers
knoaoS it is true. So far as the remuneration is
concerned, there is not man who reads the Pres
bvterian and hder who would not reject with
scorn the offer of equal employment for similar pay
Now, what chance has the pastor to make pro.
vision for his family, when his labors are over?
Absolutely none. There cannot be found, upon
the face of the earth, class of men with equal
opportunity for the exercise OF falth As Ruther-
ford said on his death-bed, when speaking of his
daughter Il have left her upon the Lord so
NAV the majority of our ministers finish their
course, leaving their helpless families dependent
directly upon the providence of God who cares for
widows and orphans.
But it seems to me that the Church is Gods
appointed agency for the performance of this work
Of salvation. As Mr.. Cater well observes, it is
shame and reproach, that the duty is SO lamely
performed And if any one of the beneGcent en-
terprises of the Church demands special attention
i al oF
worthy of the best efforts of her sons.
g. w HIGH