The central Presbyterian. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1856-1908, 1871-07-26
For THE CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN
Newbern Church.

Every church ought to understand its position
and duties financially and spiritually. Their action
will then be intelligent and effective Doubtless
one reason why many churches appear on our min
uteS year after year as almost blanks is that their
officers do not unfold clearly their affairs to them
Our session recently called together this congrega-
ton to lay before them the working Of the church.
aud to talk about its general interests. Our Trea-
surer, live and exact officer, made full exhibit
Of expenditures during the past year for home pur.
poses and of contributions for Systematic Benevo-
lence. There had been an increase in the receipts
over the preceding year, and the average amount
raised was nearly $50 per member. For some years
we have used the weekly envelope system. We
most heartily endorse and commend 1t to ALL
We have six annual collections for our Com
mittees and Sabbath School; one every two months
We now distribute through our congregation small
boxes, properly labeled, which are kept for two
months. During that time each person having a
box is expected to put at least one cent, and as
much more as his conscience tells him he owes to
God, into the box EVERY DAY. AT the close of
sixty days our Treasurer collects these boxes, emp
ties them and counts the contents then puts on
new label for the next object for our gifts, and
distributes again for the next two months. We
believe this to be the best plan to reach ali, and
raise funds for our Committees. 1t is peculiarly
adapted to an impoverished people like ours, and
to country churches with few services.
The Assembly's Relief scheme was considered
The interests and work Of our Sabbath School we're
presented by our new and efficient superintendent
This school has been for years supporting one
scholar in China, and raises good deal of money
besides.
The appeal for Mrs. Insee and her children was
committed to the ladies, as the General Assembly
advised. They acted promptly; have held two
meetings, and already have in hand about $40
For this church this is very large proportion of
the IS 600 called for Do not Christian women
work well for God? How their hearts here were
touched for the sufferers
l may here say too that the Presbyteral Agent
for Education of Orange Presbytery notified this
church that DR.. Baird turned over to him def
cheney in our Presbytery. towards meeting the
wants of onr candidates, of $40 We at once re-
nitted to our Treasurer, Mr.. j. H. Lindsay, sl7.75.
or about one,sixth of the whole amount needed.
As there are nearly fifty churches in Orange Pres
bytery, he has. it is hoped, received the whole
sum.
By suggestion from the pastor, it was agreed
HAT on the first Tuesday evening of each month,
Is many of the congregation as could do so would
at the maaSe. Thus they will be brought
together pleasantly and socially; strangers moving
INTO our community aud church will have favora-
Die opportunity Of speedily making general &C.
luaintance; many little barriers will be broken
lown; our strength viii be felt and an esprit du
orps will be cultivated. Every one is at liberty to
ome and go at will. Our refreshments consist of
plenty Of cold water mingled with love; so eren a
preacher can entertain his whole flock once month
A pleasant state of religious interest has been
prevailing in our church. We have just received