Alexandria gazette. [volume] (Alexandria, D.C.) 1834-1974, 1875-10-15
A TOUCHING CONFESSION.

We nnQ 10 the Nnaroa (lll. ~ eWs or the 10Th
OF September an account OF the resignation of
Elder }. '. Beekman as pastor Of the Christ
lac Church of that village. For some time past
the Rev. genteman's habits have been such as
to cause great grief to his friends and bring re-
proach upon the church. At the close of the
sermon, which was preached by neighboring
pastor, Elder Beekman made the following ad-
dress, which we give as warning to all meu,
both young and old, to avoid the sin and shame
which have come upon this man:
"As mao, | have the highest conception as
to what the life aud character of minister of
the Gospel should be. kuow that be should
lead consistent and 40 upright life, that he can
De looked to BY the community as an example
OF purity and righteousness. knowing that
my life has not been such in all respects, l de-
sire to tender to this church, for which have
abored so long, my resignation.
You are aware that | refer to my sin of in-
temperance. This may be my last opportunity
of addressing you, and want to ask you that
you will not charge this great shame to the re-
igon of Christ. 1t teaches better things.
Charge it all to my own depravity aud sinful
nature. To you who have not this habit it is
strange that should thus yield to temptation.
| we'll remember the time when | thought it
strange that others drank and ruined them
selves with alcohol. | am glad that there are
SO many young men here this morning, that
| may lift my voice 10 waroing, and beg them
to profit by my example. You think now
that you are stroug, and 10 90 danger. |
we'll remember the time when | believed the
same. Twelve years ago. when reached forth
my inexperienced hand and took tue iotoxcat-
lng cup, thought was strong; but | deve-
oped habit that now holds me 10 chains, and
ha nj 81 hat b,p
ever subjected TO. 1t holds me 10 it's embrace
when seek my bed for repose; it disturbs my
dreams during the weary hours OF night, and
sezes me as its prey when rise up in the
morning to enter upon the duties of the day.
profit, oh profit by my example; see what it
has done for me- There was time when I
stood as fair as any minister Of the church 10
Illinois; there was time when | had as bright
prospects aud as cheering hopes for the future
as any otmy class mates. But DOW they are all
gone because Of lotemperance. Of that | could
bring the whole world to hear my warning voice.
Ioung ladies'; you can do much to remove this
curse from the world by not cOuntenancing its
use among your companions
Brethren sever my connection with you as
your pastor With sad heart Ii would be sad
under the most favorable circumstances, but
much more so as it is. But shall remain with
you 10 the church, and labor 10 the community
for livelihood; | will come to your social meet
logs and work with you 10 the Sunday school,
and will do all can 10 atone for the great sin |
have committed.
God knows | do not wish to pjure His
cause. Pray for me that l may yet over
come this besetting sin. | trust that
shall be able to conquer. But, should l
go down under the withering Influence, ask
that you remember me kindly. Whenever you
meet me, aud under what circumstances, re-
member there was time when you we're proud
of me. But treat me as you may, act towards
me as you choose, beg that you will remem..
sorrow because of my wrong doing. Poor ", :
man, she has always suffered enough. | mar
ried her sweet and innocent girl She has
been patient and faithful wife. Again ask
that you will kindly remember my wife and
children"