Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1871-09-28

of the agencies working in Augusta to cripple
the association, and Of its distinct and sepa-
rate work. 1d aefa etn
Rev. Mr.. Cousens, spoke in behalf Of the
executive committee of the Sunday School
| Association, and urged the claims of county
| institutes. ~ +sa3 SFa
Mr.. Hubbard Of Biddeford, alluded to the
discouragements that had been limited at and
cleaned them away by forcible arguments in
favor of the special work Of the association.
He thought that the work of the association
could never be done by the church. a fiii
Mr.. Hodgkins of Biddeford, thought that
jealousy on the part of the church was a
great obstacle in the way of the efficiency of
the association. al
Messrs. Garcelon of Lewiston, Titus of
Monmouth, Baker of Gardiner, Sturteyant of
Portland, and Ward of Biddeford, spoke up
on the same subject. ea
Mr.. Rowland of Boston, gathered up the
remarks that had been made on the obstacles
presented, and offered suggestions, among
| which was Ego into all the world and preach
the gospel to every creature" It is harder
to find fault than. to apply the remedies. Ask
those who find fault to come in and lead the
meetings, and this will cure them The
churches are open but twelve hours in a week,
| while the association rooms are open seventy
| hours week. The Young Mems Christian
Association is an arm and outgrowth of the
church. Put the offices in the hands of the
young men. 41
| The discussion revealed many of the dis
couragements in the way of association work,
and although not showing the bright side
was extremely interesting and profitable. a
Adjourned to evening. "a .sss5
EVENING SESSION. "a ts'a
There was large gathering in the vestry
to engage in the exercises of the evening.
hymn was sung, and the meeting joined
in prayer led by Capt. Sturtevant of Port
land. portion of scripture, commencing
"Come let us reason together" was read by
Rev. II. +. Wood of West Watervile.
The hymn commencing
"More love, o Christ, to thee" was sung,
after which the topic "How shall the indiffer-
ent christian be made to see the Importance
Of the Young Mems Christian Association"
was opened by Rev. Mr.. Cousens Of Halo
well. He thought there should be particular
regard for the religious opinions of others
| when we are doing Gods service. Be willing
to work for Jesus in any capacity. Don't be
too stingy with your money. The world
throws out money as decoy. Money ques-
ton is strong one to the cold christian. If
our hearts are in the work we will use our
money.
Capt Sturtevant of Portland said that
many had got it into their heads that their
work was done when they got seated in q
comfortably cushioned pew to listen TO elo-
quent sermons and hired preaching. We
must not be passengers in the gospel ships,
but workers. Work first for the temporal
good of the sinful and unfortunate, and then
speak to them of their spiritual interests
Mr.. Rowland said there are great many
croakers against the associations. The best
way to serve these is to let them terribly
| alone. Present work, stimulated by the love
| of God, is required. -
The question box was opened, and peril
nent questions answered by several brethren,
relating to the vital work of the association.
A liberal collection was then taken up for
the objects of the State Associations. e.
One half hours devotional exercises were
held, conducted by Mr.. Cargill of Augusta.
There was the utmost freedom--short, fervent
prayers, pointed remarks and the singing of
some of the grand old hymns, made up
season of deep spiritual interest. es'
At half-rast nine the convention adjourned
to Wednesday. H. o.