wants of the Church, of the country, and the world, ordinary way. However this may be, it is clear to and speak unto them in reference to their duty my mind that the Bible is not studied so much as it touching this great subject. He could not undertake should be in our academies and colleges. Surely a greater, or a more important work, and he would our young men ought to be made well acquainted be well received everywhere. with the sacred Scriptures, during their course in such institutions. I fear, too, that many pastors and elders do not feel as they should the importance of bringing be- It is remarkable, but nevertheless true, that the fore the minds of pious young men under their institution which seems to me to come the nearest charge, with much frequency and great earnestness, to what a Christian Seminary of learning should be, the great duty of serving Christ in the ministry of so far as my knowledge goes, is a Mission-school in the gospel, if they have the gifts and attainments the city of Syra, the capital of an island of the same (or the prospect of reaching such attainments) as name, which belongs to the kingdom of Greece. It are needed for the work, and in whose hearts the is under the direction of the excellent Mr. Hildner, Holy Spirit seems to excite a desire to preach the one of the missionaries of the Church Mission gospel. There is here a great duty for ministers Society of England, a native of Germany, or northand elders to perform-to guide aright young men ern Switzerland, who was educated at Basle, where, of proper talents, who come to the knowledge of the too, Gobat, the Bishop of Jerusalem, was educated. Saviour, and who ask with all the simplicity and In that school several hundred youth, (nearly 500 earnestness of young converts, and often with trem- when I saw it, in 1846,) are taught the great facts bling, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? What an and doctrines and duties of Christianity, in the most important era in the life of young men is that which instructive and thorough manner. One whole hour embraces the first few months or year after they (and surely it is not too much) is devoted every have come to the knowledge of the Saviour! And day, from nine till ten o'clock in the morning, to how important that they should be properly advised the study of the Bible, and this with a good degree as to the course which they should pursue! The of reference to the order in which the sacred volume guidance needed, no doubt, should be delicately, has been arranged. Can such instruction, given in and prayerfully, and wisely given; but nevertheless a kind, affectionate, attractive, and prayerful spirit it should be given. And to none does this duty and manner, fail to bring, sooner or later, those appertain more than to pastors, in the first instance, who receive it to the saving knowledge of God in and afterwards to teachers and professors. How Christ? I cannot think so. Would that we could often the discriminating eye of a pastor, or an elder, see such instruction given in our literary instituor a Sabbath-school teacher, has detected in the tions! I think it might be given. youthful inquirer after the way of salvation, the future herald of the gospel. I may be mistaken, Moderator, but I am of opinion that just here is a neglect of duty to which we have to attribute somewhat of the decrease of candidates for the ministry. Allow me to say a word on the subject of the religious education which young men ought to receive in our academies and colleges. I have long thought that there was a good deal to be desired on this point. When we consider the infinite importance of the Christian religion, both for this life and for that which is beyond the grave, I am sometimes amazed to think that the Bible, the most wonderful book in the world, is so little studied in our academies and colleges. I must say, that whatever difficulties may lie in the way in other institutions, there ought to be none in those which are gotten up under the auspices and direction of the Presbyteries and Synods of our Church. There can be no excuse if religious instruction be not complete in such institutions; for they are founded for the express purpose of giving more thorough religious training than it is supposed can be given in institutions founded in the In regard to the duty of praying that the Saviour would raise up young men-would call young men by his grace-would incline their hearts by his Spirit-to preach the gospel, let me say, Moderator, that at one time, during my residence at Paris, the number of students in the "Missionary Institute," (under the care of the Rev. Dr. Grand Pierre,) a Seminary for the preparation of young men for labours among "unevangelized nations," fell off till there was but one left. And what was done? The fact was stated in the Annual Report, and the lamentable state of things was laid on the hearts and consciences of the little band of Christians who were present, assembled from all parts of France, and they were called on to pray mightily to God! And they did pray. It was the burden of every public prayer; it was the burden of the closet. And what was the result? Before the week passed away, five young men presented themselves at the door of the institution, as candidates for the work of preaching the gospel to the heathen! Whilst his people were yet speaking, the Lord not only heard, but answered their prayers! So it will be with us, if those who love this cause, and take a heartfelt interest in it, will go to the throne of grace, and remain at it, in this the hour of the Church's need, of the country's need, of the world's need. From the Genesee Evangelist. The last Thursday of February has become a "Resolved, That in the opinion of this House, the inadequate pecuniary support of the clergy is operating throughout the Church as an almost fatal discouragement and hindrance to the work of the ministry, and as a principal cause of the present diminutive number of candidates for holy orders; and we therefore request the Right Reverend the Bishops to make this great evil and injustice, in such manner as may seem to them most judicious, the subject of a pastoral counsel and admonition to the Church." In replying to this Resolution, the Bishops admit that the want of adequate support is one of the main causes of the decrease of candidates. The following extracts from the Pastoral Letter of the Bishops, just issued, contain matter of serious reflection for our own Church. "But to effect these objects, she needs more clerHere is a thought, however, which I have often gymen, and they will need to be thoroughly educated desired to suggest to the consideration of Christians, for their work. In looking over the addresses of and for which I beg a small space in your columns. our Bishops in the journals of their respective ConIt is this, Do not let there be a postponement of earnest ventions, we find a general complaint of the want of prayer for our literary institutions until the close of more clergymen, and instead of the candidates for February. The period of the year when Christian orders increasing in number, in proportion to the students need the largest amount of divine influence rapid increase of the Church, it is believed that is the commencement of the term. They are begin- their number is actually diminishing. The prosperity ning that course of study and allotment of time of our country in all kinds of secular business, and which affects them throughout the year. As they the prospect of wealth and distinction held out to begin they are apt to to continue, and thus to be young men of talents and education, may in part useful or injurious in the influence they exert upon account for this result. But it must be admitted as their impenitent associates, as well as their own re- generally true, that the pecuniary compensation of ligious hopes and prospects. the Clergy is entirely inadequate to their comforta When a revival occurs in an institution, what a ble support, and that it has by no means kept pace difference is perceived between the usefulness of a with the increased expenses of living. It is then student who has always, since his matriculation, incumbent on the Church, first to do justice in this been consistent, devotional, and ardently desirous of matter, and then to take measures to increase the being and doing good, to one who seems to have left number of candidates for holy orders. There are his religion at home, and is "hail fellow well met" strong worldly obstacles in the way of this increase; with the most thoughtless among his comrades, and but they can be overcome by wisdom, zeal, and has himself to be converted, (brought back like liberality. The clergy can do much by directing the Peter,) ere he can do any good to those around him. minds of pious and promising young men to some Many young Christians in seminaries are of this sacred office; and pious parents may co-operate with latter class. They are, in the judgment of charity, the clergy in this good work. If a young man, "born again;" but the novelty and excitement of possessing the requisite qualifications, has not the college and academy life get a temporary ascendancy pecuniary ability to procure an education, a wealthy over them. The witchery of some pleasing compan-friend, or the parish to which he belongs, may conion entices them into circles and doings the farthest tribute to his support; or, what is still better, may from exemplary and faithful to their Redeemer. found a permanent scholarship. A wealthy and Having been for many years a student, I speak from observation and too painful experience, and address myself to many who have had similar sources of knowledge, at least the former. But not to dwell, Christian reader, let me earnestly address to you two practical thoughts. pious parent may acknowledge the providence of God toward him by devoting one of his sons to the sacred ministry; or if the son should decline the work, he may redeem him according to the old dispensation, by educating some suitable young man in his place. Indeed, there seems at present little probability of affording any adequate supply to the ranks of the ministry, unless young men of talent and piety shall be selected from the less ambitious walks in life, and be educated in whole or in part, by individual or parochial assistance. 2. Have you brothers, sisters, or any relatives and The establishment of scholarships, then, permanent friends in these institutions? write to them at once, or temporary, for education at the College or the begging them to be faithful witnesses for the cross Theological Seminary, or both, appears to be called and kingdom of Jesus. 1. Pray every day for youthful members of the Church in all our seminaries of learning, universities, colleges, and academies-male and female-that they be exemplary, devotional, and greatly useful from the beginning to the end of the year. W. for among the first works of the Church. Some of the most distinguished lights of the Church of EngDECREASE OF CANDIDATES IN EPISCOPAL land have been educated in this way, and we shall do well to follow so good and instructive an exam CHURCH. The following resolution was unanimously passed by the Lower House of the late General Convention of the Episcopal Church. ple. * * * adequate supply of clergy and of candidates for holy The great want in the Church seems to be a more orders. Coming as you do, brethren, from every GREENSBORO FEMALE COLLEGE. The Session of this Institution has just been opened with very bright prospects. There is already a considerable number of new scholars. portion of the Church, and acquainted with her following notice of the institution at Greensboro is necessities, it was to be expected that this matter taken from the "Southern Presbyterian." should occupy your serious deliberations. The resolutions you have sent us, recommending a more adequate support of the clergy, and the devising of measures for the increase of their numbers, may well challenge our most earnest attention. We commend the subject to the paramount consideration of all of our Dioceses; and we are prepared devoutly to unite with you in prayers to the great Head of the Church, that he would raise up and send forth a more abundant supply of labourers into the vineyard." GOD CHOOSES THE POOR OF THIS WORLD. Moses was the son of a poor Levite-Gideon was a thresher-David was a shepherd boy-Amos was a herdsman-the apostles were "ignorant and unlearned." The reformer, Zwingle, emerged from a shepherd's hut among the Alps. Melancthon, the great theologian of the Reformation, was a workman in an armourer's shop. Martin Luther was the child of a poor miner Carey, who originated the plan of translating the Bible into the language of the millions of Hindustan, was a shoemaker in Northampton. Dr. Morrison, who translated the Bible into the Chinese language, was a last-maker in Newcastle. Dr. Milne was a herd-boy in Aberdeenshire. Dr. Adam Clarke was the child of Irish cottars. John Foster was a weaver. Andrew Fuller was a farm-servant. William Jay of Bath was a herdsman; and the present Archbishop of York is the son of a draper. FACULTY. Rev. Robert Logan, A. M., President. Mr. J. B. Lyman, Professor of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. Mr. N. B. Clapp, Professor of Vocal and Instrumental Music. Miss Clara C. Harrison, Instructress in Mathematics, English branches, and French. Miss A. P. Hamilton, Instructress in the Primary and Academic Departments. Miss Graves has been appointed to fill the Department of Drawing and Painting. Miss Lyman has been appointed Assistant Instructress in the Music Department. These ladies, who have been recently appointed, have been teaching in the Female College in Greensborough, North Carolina, with great credit to themselves. C. H. BALDWIN, Sec. of the Board of Trustees. SCHOLARSHIPS. The sum of Seventy-five dollars forms a scholarship to assist a student in the collegiate course, and the sum of One Hundred dollars in the theological course. May great and good results follow the establish-America, the sum of ment of these institutions! FLORIDA ACADEMY. The Presbytery of Florida lately received under their care an Academy, but the particulars have not yet reached us. GREENSBORO FEMALE COLLEGE. I give and devise to the Trustees of the Board of Educa tion of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of dollars, to and for the uses of the said Board of Education, and under its direction. [When real estate, or other property, is given, let it be particularly described.] BOARD OF EDUCATION. I. FUND FOR CANDIDATES. The Synod of Georgia has now two large and Hamptonburg ch flourishing Female Colleges under its supervision, one at Greensboro, and the other at Griffin. The Marlboro ch $33 00 Presbytery of North River. 10 00 Presbytery of Long Island. East Hampton ch Presbytery of New York. Williamsburg ch Presbytery of Elizabethtown. Elizabethport ch 15 00 Presbytery of Newton. Fox Hill ch 64 33 MISCELLANEOUS. 39 56 Rev A R Banks, El Dorado Ark 5; Miss Jane R Wilson, Shippensburg 5; Mrs Mary L Irwin, Shippensburg 5; "From a Friend" Princeton 25; From two Friends" N Y 100; Rev Daniel Fishburn and family 5, and Mrs Hugh McClure 2 50, Waynesboro Va; Rev J M Crabb, Williams Centre, Ohio 2 50; Rev James Bossard, Fort Wayne Ind, 1; Robert Campbell Esq, Clarksville, Ga 32 36; John Lyons, Bedford, Pa 25 cts 12.00 183 61 S. R. House, of the 29th of June. He speaks of BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS. the good health of the missionaries, and the encour MISSION HOUSE, No. 23 CENTRE Street, New York. RECENT INTELLIGENCE. MISSION HOUSE, November 12, 1853. INDIA. Since our last, letters have been received from the Rev. J. H. Orbison, August, of the Lodiana Mission; from the Rev. John E. Freeman, 9th of July and the 19th of August; from the Rev. J. J. Walsh, 9th of July and 19th of August; and from the Rev. A. H. Seeley of 1st of July, of the Fur rukhabad Mission. The country had been visited by a season of extraordinarily hot and oppressive weather, which was succeeded by cholera, which proved still more trying, both to the European and native population. Mr. Freeman had a severe attack of this disease, but was entirely restored at the date of his last letter. Mr. Walsh mentions the conversion of two Mohammedans to the Christian faith. "One of them," he remarks, "is a middle-aged man, formerly a Mussulman from the Oude district, and well acquainted with the doctrines of the Koran. He was passing through Futtehgurh on a pilgrimage to Mecca, when he met our native preachers, who brought him to me for conversation. I advised him to stop and learn more of this good way, and offered him service as a chaukidar. He accepted and brought his wife and family with him. From that time, he has been diligent in studying the Bible and attending all the religious services. Frequently I have seen him at ten and eleven o'clock at night sitting at the gate, reading his Bible by the light of a small taper. Such was his love for the Bible, that he actually paid three rupees for a copy of the Old Testament, though his income is only three and a half rupees per month. This was unknown to me, or I would have presented him with one. The other man is also a convert from Mohammedanism, though he was originally a Sikh of the highest class. He gave good satisfaction, and seemed to have a very clear view of the plan of salvation through a crucified Redeemer, though not to the same degree as Khadin Massih. I trust they are both true men, and will encourage our hearts by a godly and holy life and conversation. One has taken the name of Khadin Massih, the servant of Christ; the other Abdullah Massih, the friend of Christ. May they both be found true servants and faithful friends, and at last find an entrance into his righteous kingdom!" SIAM MISSION.-The latest intelligence from the brethren of the Siam Mission is a letter from Dr. aging aspects of their missionary labours. They have formed the nucleus of an interesting boardingschool, in twenty or more boys, whom they have received into their families. Mrs. Mattoon still continues her visits to the ladies of the palace, and is sowing seed, which we hope will ere long produce an abundant harvest. Dr. House calls loudly for help, and we trust his appeal will not be without a response. "We are not a little anxious," he says, "to know whether we are to be reinforced this year, or not. * * * We trust we are not to be disappointed this year, as we were the last. Surely Siam has, among the other fields of missionary labour, claims that are neither few nor small upon the educated young men of our Church." CHINA.-Letters have been received from Rev. The A. P. Happer, 21st July, and from Rev. John B. French, 20th August, of the Canton Mission: from Dr. D. B. McCartee, 5th July; from Rev. J. W. Quarterman, 29th June; from Rev. S. N. Martin, 16th July; and from Rev. Henry V. Rankin, 25th July, of the Ningpo Mission; from the Rev. J. K. Wight, 6th August; and from Rev. M. S. Culbertson, 6th August, of the Shanghai Mission. missionaries in this field, almost without exception, have been favoured with excellent health, and are prosecuting their ordinary labours without interruption. Mr. Martin alludes to the zeal and Christian deportment of the three converts who had been received into the church some time previously. He remarks also, in relation to the old convert, Mr. Wong, "He is not wholly inactive; he frequently speaks to audiences, with earnestness and effect, and though near the end of his days, he may yet be the means of good service to his Master. Some labourers were called at the eleventh hour." Several of our brethren give valuable and interesting information in relation to the progress of the revolution in China, and we are sorry that we have not room in the present number of the Record to lay this information before our readers. The general opinion seems to be that the insurgents must ere long become masters of the country, and that this result will be favourable to the cause of Christian missions. Some of the brethren, however, as at an earlier period of the movement, take a different view of the matter, and are not without apprehension that it may be attended with disastrous results. Whatever may be the ultimate result of this wonderful revolution, it is very certain it will not leave the Chinese population where it found them; and every friend of the Redeemer should therefore lift up earnest |