TOPICS - click to expand or collapse

THE CIVIL WAR OF THE UNITED STATES - THE REBELLION OF THE SOUTHERN STATES - SECRETARY STANTON'S STATEMENT - THE CAUSE OF THE REBELLION - SLAVERY THE CORNER-STONE OF THE SOUTHERN CONFEDERACY - CONGRESS DECLARES THE OBJECT OF THE WAR - PROVIDENCE OF GOD IN THE WAR - CHRISTIAN ELEMENT ON THE SIDE OF THE CONSTITUTION - TWO MORAL RESULTS OF THE WAR - MORAL USES OF CIVIL WAR STATED BY MILTON - THE AMERICAN REPUBLIC TO REALIZE MILTON'S VIEW OF A REGENERATED NATION - DR. BRAINERD'S FAST-DAY SERMON - AN EXTRACT - CHRISTIAN FACTS DEVELOPED - PRESIDENT LINCOLN'S ADDRESS ON LEAVING HIS HOME FOR WASHINGTON - HIS JOURNEY - PRAYERS FOR HIS SAFETY - FORT SUMTER - PRAYER AROUND THE FLAG-STAFF - MAJOR ANDERSON - PREVALENCE OF PRAYER - ADDRESS OF THE PASTORS OF RHODE ISLAND - PRAYER-MEETING IN THE PRESBYTERIAN GENERAL ASSEMBLY - FORMS OF PRAYER FOR EPISCOPALIAN CHURCHES - STATEMENT OF A RELIGIOUS PAPER ON THE PREVALENCE OF PRAYER - PRESIDENT APPOINTS A DAY OF FASTING AND PRAYER - RESOLUTIONS OF RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS ON THE STATE OF THE COUNTRY IN 1861 - RESOLUTIONS IN 1862 - RESOLUTIONS IN 1863 - RELIGION THE STAY OF THE GOVERNMENT - PROCLAMATION OF FREEDOM - CHRISTIAN ORGANIZATIONS - OFFICIAL RECOMMENDATIONS - THE SABBATH - ADDRESSES TO THE PRESIDENT ON THE SABBATH - HIS ANSWER AND ORDER - VIEWS OF OFFICERS IN THE ARMY AND NAVY ON THE SABBATH - PATRIOTIC AND CHRISTIAN WORK AND INFLUENCE OF THE WOMEN - ARMY CHAPLAINS - TESTIMONIALS TO THEIR USEFULNESS - MINISTERS - THEIR LOYALTY AND LABOR DURING THE CONFLICT - FAST-DAY IN 1863 - PROCLAMATIONS FOR ITS OBSERVANCE - THANKSGIVING DAYS APPOINTED FOR VICTORIES - PROCLAMATION BY THE PRESIDENT - ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR - HIS VIEW OF THE CAUSES OF VICTORIES - VICTORY AT GETTYSBURG - CHRISTIAN ADDRESS OF THE PRESIDENT TO THE COUNTRY - GENERAL MEADE'S THANKSGIVING ORDER TO THE ARMY - VICTORY AT VICKSBURG - GENERAL REJOICING - SUBLIME SCENES IN PHILADELPHIA - PRESIDENT'S PROCLAMATION FOR THANKSGIVING - BISHOP POTTER'S FORM OF THANKSGIVING - NATIONAL INFLUENCE OF THE DAY OF THANKSGIVING - SIGNIFICANCE AND GRANDEUR OF THE CHRISTIAN FACTS IN THIS VOLUME.

The civil war of the United States, rising out of the Southern rebellion, is the most important event in modern history, and will constitute the most instructive chapter in the annals of the American republic. It produced new policies in political parties, new and extraordinary action in the civil and military departments of the Government, developed the unselfish patriotism of the people, and brought out, in purity and efficiency, the Christian element of the nation. The thirteen colonies had, by a common patriotism and costly sacrifices in a successful and sublime struggle for liberty, achieved their independence, and founded a system of constitutional government unequalled for wisdom and excellence. Under the beneficent influences of their political and civil institutions, the nation advanced rapidly in prosperity and greatness, and soon rose to be a first-class political Power among the empires of earth.

Agriculture, commerce, manufactures, all industrial pursuits, in auspicious harmony with education, the arts and sciences, social culture, and the blessings of liberty and religion, had for eighty-four years poured out their blessings upon the nation. The prosperity and happiness of the people were unexampled in the history of the world.

In the midst of this national culture and prosperity at home, and of the highest international prestige abroad, the States of South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, Arkansas, Texas, Tennessee, and Virginia seceded from the Union and rebelled against the General Government.

The incipient stages of the rebellion, and its insidious progress and results, are summed up in the following statement made by Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War under President Lincoln's administration: -

War Department, Washington, Feb. 14, 1862.

The breaking out of a formidable insurrection, based on a conflict of political ideas, being an event without precedent in the United States, was necessarily attended with great confusion and perplexity of the public mind.

Disloyalty, before unsuspected, suddenly became bold, and treason astonished the whole world by bringing at once into the field military forces superior in numbers to the standing army of the United States.

Every department of the Government was paralyzed by treason. Defection appeared in the Senate, in the House of Representatives, in the Cabinet, and in the Federal courts. Ministers and consuls returned from foreign countries to enter the insurrectionary councils or land or naval force. Commanding and other officers in the army and in the navy betrayed their councils or deserted their posts for commands in the insurgent forces. Treason was flagrant in the revenue and the post-office services, as well as in the Territorial Governments and in the Indian reserves.

Not only Governors, judges, legislators, and ministerial officers in the States, but even whole States, rushed one after another, with apparent unanimity, into rebellion.

The capital was beleaguered, and its connection with all the States cut off. Even in the portions of the country which were most loyal, political combinations and societies were found furthering the work of disunion; while, from motives of disloyalty or cupidity, or from excited passions or perverted sympathies, individuals were found furnishing men, money, materials of war, and supplies to the insurgents' military and naval forces. Armies, ships, fortifications, navy-yards, arsenals, military posts and garrisons, one after another were betrayed or abandoned to the insurgents.

Congress had not anticipated, and so had not provided for, the emergency. The municipal authorities were powerless and inactive. The judicial machinery seemed as if it had been designed not to sustain the Government, but to embarrass and betray it.

Foreign intervention was openly invited and industriously instigated by the abettors of the insurrection; and it became imminent, and has only been prevented by the practice of strict and impartial justice, with the most perfect moderation, in our intercourse with other nations. The public mind was alarmed and apprehensive, though fortunately not distracted or disheartened. It seemed to be doubtful whether the Federal Government, which one year ago had been thought a model worthy of universal acceptance, had indeed the ability to defend and maintain itself. Some reverses, which perhaps were unavoidable, suffered by newly-levied and insufficient forces, discouraged the loyal, and gave new hopes to the insurgents. Voluntary enlistment seemed to cease, and desertions commenced. Parties speculated upon the question whether conscription had not become necessary to fill up the armies of the United States.

In this emergency, the President felt it his duty to employ with energy the extraordinary power which the Constitution confides to him in cases of insurrection. He called into the field such military and naval forces authorized by existing laws as seemed necessary. He directed measures to prevent the use of the post-office for treasonable correspondence. He subjected those going to and from foreign countries to a new passport regulation; and he instituted a blockade, suspended the habeas corpus in various places, and caused persons who were represented to him as being engaged, or about to engage, in disloyal and treasonable practices, to be arrested by special civil as well as military agencies, and detained in military custody, when necessary, to prevent them and deter others from such practices. Examinations of such cases were instituted, and some of the persons so arrested have been discharged from time to time, under circumstances or upon conditions compatible, as was thought, with the public safety. Meantime, a favorable change of public opinion has occurred. The line between loyalty and disloyalty is plainly defined. The whole structure of the Government is firm and stable. Apprehensions of public danger and facilities for treasonable practices have diminished with the passions which prompted the heedless persons to adopt them.

The occasion of the rebellion was alleged violations of the constitutional rights of the Southern States by Congress and the Northern States, and the election of Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois, as President of the United States, in 1860; but the cause of the rebellion was the long-cherished purpose of Southern politicians and statesmen to establish a Southern Confederacy on the basis of human bondage. This principle was announced by Alexander H. Stephens, the Vice-President of the Southern Confederacy, in these words: - "The foundations of the new Government are laid upon the great truth that slavery - subordination of an inferior race - is the negro's natural and moral condition; that it is the first Government in the history of the world based upon this great physical, philosophical, and moral truth; and that THE STONE WHICH WAS REJECTED BY THE FIRST BUILDERS IS, IN THIS EDIFICE, BECOME THE CHIEF STONE OF THE CORNER."

On the 11th day of April, 1861, by the authority of the Southern Confederacy, Fort Sumter, the property of the United States, was fired upon, and surrendered; and this inaugurated the civil war. This fact thrilled the heart of the nation, and developed the patriotism and loyalty of the twenty millions of people in the Northern States. The sublime and universal uprising of the people to vindicate the insulted flag of the nation, to preserve the integrity of the Government and the unity of the republic, had no parallel in history, and was worthy of a free and Christian nation.

President Lincoln, who had been inaugurated on the 4th of March, 1861, convened Congress in extraordinary session on the Fourth of July, 1861, His message, after revealing the facts and causes connected with the rebellion, and recommending such measures as the imperilled condition of the Government and country required, closed with these words of Christian trust and courage: - "Having chosen our course without guile and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts."

Congress, soon after its meeting, declared the object of the war, on the part of the General Government, in the following resolution: -

That the present deplorable civil war has been forced upon the country by the disunionists of the Southern States, now in arms against the constitutional Government and in arms around the capital; that in this national emergency, Congress, banishing all feeling of mere passion or resentment, will recollect only its duty to the whole country; that this war is not waged on their part in any spirit of oppression, or for any purpose of conquest or subjugation or purpose of overthrowing or interfering with the rights or established institutions of those States, but to defend and maintain the supremacy of the Constitution, and to preserve the Union, with all the dignity, equality, and rights of the several States unimpaired; and that as soon as these objects are accomplished the war ought to cease.

This great conflict, in its progress, impressed the public mind with the providence and presence of God, and developed largely and hopefully the Christian element of the nation. All devout and thoughtful minds felt that God, while he chastened and humbled the nation on account of its sins, would again interpose for the preservation and perpetuity of the nation.

"I do not forget," says Choate, "that a power above man'spower, a wisdom above man's wisdom, a reason above man's reason, may be traced, without the presumptuousness of fanaticism, in the fortunes of America. I do not forget that God has been in our history. Beyond that dazzling progress of art, society, thought, which is of his ordaining, although it may seem to a false philosophy a fatal and inevitable flaw, - beyond this, there has been, and there may be again, interposition, providential, exceptional, and direct, of that Supreme Agency without which no sparrow falleth."

This great conflict assumed, on the part of the North, the moral grandeur of a religious war; "not in the old fanatical sense of that phrase; not a war of violent excitement and passionate enthusiasm; not a war in which the crimes of cruel bigots are laid to the charge of a Divine impulse; but a war by itself, waged with dignified and solemn strength, with clean hands and pure hearts, - a war calm and inevitable in its processes as the judgments of God."

The Christian element had greatly aided in achieving the liberties of the republic and in forming our constitutions of government; and now, as these were threatened with subversion and destruction, the Christian element again came forth with fresh and earnest life and energy to shield and save the institutions of the nation. The rebellion aimed not only to exterminate the life of a great Christian nation, but it was an attack on the Christian religion and the institutions of a Christian civilization which had grown out of it and were cherished and sustained by it. It was in harmony, therefore, with the traditional history and genius of the Christian religion that it should array its whole force against the rebellion, and rally, in its spirit and principles, to defend and support the General Government. The Christian element developed itself in two prominent ways.

The first was the infusion into the loyal heart of the nation of a profound and universal conviction of right, thus giving to the conflict the devotion and heroism of a Christian war. This fact gave to the martial enthusiasm of the people a high moral tone, inspired the armies and the navy with an indomitable and a Divine courage, impressed the acts of the national and State Governments with a religious dignity and authority, and elevated and strengthened the Christian piety and patriotism of the people. The pulpits, churches, and ecclesiastical denominations of the nation sent forth their voices to encourage and support the Government, and were the source of its hope and the right arm of its strength.

The second result of the Christian element was, and will be, to reinvigorate and recover the republic, its institutions and functions of civil government, and its political and social character, from the decay and degeneracy of national virtue, and to replenish the life of the nation with increased moral vigor and purity. This is the genius and the uniform fruits of the Christian religion. It is not only the life of a nation, but it is the only means to restore national life when impaired and enfeebled from national vices and degeneracy.

Civil war has its moral uses and results. "For civil war," says Milton, "that it is an evil I dispute not. But that it is the greatest of evils, that I stoutly deny. It doth indeed appear to the misjudging to be a worse calamity than bad government, because its miseries are collected together within a short space and time and may easily at one view be taken in and perceived. . . . When the devil of tyranny hath gone into the body politic, he departs not but with struggles, and foaming, and great convulsions. Shall he, therefore, vex it forever, lest in going out he for a moment tear and rend it?"

The civil war, though attended with many direful calamities, yet in its moral uses and results, through the prevalence and power of the Christian religion, will realize, in the future of a renovated and an ennobled nation, those other weighty words of Milton, that the American nation "has not degenerated, nor is drooping to a fatal decay, but destined, by casting off the old and wrinkled skin of corruption, to outlive these pangs and wax young again, and, entering the glorious ways of truth and prosperous virtue, become great and honorable in these latter ages. Methinks I see in my mind a great and puissant nation rousing herself like a strong man after sleep, and shaking her invincible locks. Methinks I see her as an eagle mewing her mighty youth, and kindling her undazzled eyes at the full midday beam, purging and unsealing her long-abused sight at the fountain iiself of heavenly radiance, while the whole noise of timorous and flocking birds, with those also that love the twilight, flutter about, amazed at what she means, and in their envious gabble would prognosticate a year of sects and schisms."

Back to top

1) REV. DR. BRAINERD,

Pastor of the Pine Street Presbyterian Church, the historic remembrances of which are so honorable to the Christian patriotism of its Revolutionary pastor (Rev. Mr. Duffield) and people, preached a sermon on the day of fasting and prayer appointed by the President of the United States, April 30, 1863, on "PATRIOTISM AIDING PIETY." That sermon has the following just statements on the moral and ennobling results of the great civil war of the country:-

We are also to confess the sins of our people, as did Daniel. This admission of our national sinfulness as the just cause of our national judgments does not compel us to believe that we are more guilty than other nations, nor that we have backslidden from the virtues of our fathers. Each age has its own virtues and crimes; and every age has crimes to deserve God's judgments. "Say not that the former times were better than these; for thou dost not judge wisely concerning this thing."

My impression is, that in Sabbath-keepihg, and attention to the means of grace, in efforts to diffuse universal education and the circulation of religious truth, by Bibles, tracts, churches, preaching and Sabbath-school teaching, in efforts to establish institutions for the aged, the imbecile, and the unfortunate, in endeavors to help the sailor, the prisoner, the widow and the orphan, our own age and land have developed a piety and charity not common in the world.

Indeed, I cannot avoid suspecting that this war is on our hands not because this age and people are worse than other times and men, but because we have risen to a higher principle, a holier aim, and more adhesive regard to justice and humanity.

    *    *    *    *    *    *    *

Our war is the proper protest of justice and humanity against injustice, cruelty, and perfidy. It is the struggle of right and philanthropy against outrage, oppression, and bloody treason.

We have received from ages gone by the fruits of man's long struggles for civil and religious liberty and the right of self-government; we have received a broad, beautiful, and healthful country, to every foot of whose soil we have an equal claim as citizens; we have received a civil constitution, which embraces the concentrated wisdom of the sages of the Revolution; and we have taken up arms to declare that no traitor hand shall cut the telegraphic wire on which these blessings are passing down to other generations. The cry of humanity from ages to come has called us to this bloody strife. It is simply a defence of our own institutions.

In such a contest we are not to interpret any defeats into an impeachment of our national virtue or our cause, but rather regard them as a moral discipline through which God purifies us from remaining corruptions, to make us "perfect" for our high national mission "through sufferings."

The war has certainly unveiled an appalling amount of individual selfishness, covetousness, fraud, cowardice, and perfidy. But it has also shown in our people a pure, unselfish patriotism, developed in the pecuniary sacrifices of the rich and poor, in the devotion of their lives by hundreds of thousands of our young men, in the rich, unfailing charities, especially of our ladies, for the suffering soldiers, in the patient suffering of our martyrs in the hospital or on the battle-field. War has ennobled as well as tried us; and I must thank God to-day for the grace he has given you, as well as exhort you to be penitent for your sins.

While I say this, I still believe that our sufferings are made necessary by our sins, and that the nearer we approach to holiness the fewer will be our disasters and the more certain our triumphs.

The present chapter will record the manifold and beneficent developments of the Christian element during the progress of the civil war, and show how the Christian religion is in earnest and practical sympathy with liberty, the rights of man, and our noble system of civil government, and how our Christian republic, struggling for its life and institutions, is aided by the Christian element, and the national virtues cultivated and the people ennobled in their efforts to preserve the civil institutions of the country.

Back to top

2) THE PRESIDENT ELECT,

Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois, anticipating the formidable scenes which were to open with his inauguration, felt sincerely and deeply the need of God's upholding and guiding hand in the grave responsibilities he was about to assume. When leaving his home in Springfield, Illinois, for Washington, he said,-

MY FRIENDS:- One who has never been placed in a like position cannot understand my feelings at this hour, nor the oppressive sadness I feel at this parting. For more than twenty-five years I have lived among you, and during all that time I have received nothing but kindness at your hands. Here the most cherished ties of earth were assumed. Here my children were born, and here one of them lies buried.

To you, my friends, I owe all that I have, all that I am. All the strange, checkered past seems to crowd now upon my mind. To-day I leave you. I go to assume a task more difficult than that which devolved upon General Washington. Unless the great God who assisted him shall be with and aid me, I cannot prevail; but, if the same Omniscient mind and the same Almighty arm that directed and protected him shall guide and support me, I shall not fail; I shall succeed. Let us pray that the God of our fathers may not forsake us now. To him I commend you all. Permit me to ask that with equal sincerity and faith you will all invoke his wisdom and guidance for me.

With these few words I must leave you, for how long I know not. Friends, one and all, I must now wish you an affectionate farewell.

On his way to Washington he was encircled in an atmosphere of prayer; and, whilst the people everywhere met to welcome him, multitudes of Christians were in earnest prayer to God for his safe journey and successful inauguration. In some cities banners were thrown across the streets with the significant motto, " We will pray for you."

On the day of his inauguration, the Christian public, impressed with the imperilled condition of the nation and for the personal safety of the President, then to assume his solemn responsibilities, met, in many places in the North, for special prayer, and continued their intercessions till after the scenes of the inauguration had closed. The only parallel to this was that of Washington. On the day of his inauguration, seventy-three years previous, all denominations of Christians in New York met, and held a season of special prayer for the new President and the Government then to be put into practical operation. Both cases were full of Christian interest and hopeful for the nation. After Mr. Lincoln's inauguration, and when the rebellion had cropped out into frightful proportions, he said that nothing encouraged him so much as to know that Christians were praying for him.

The first war-scene in the great conflict was at Fort Sumter; and it was enveloped in an atmosphere of prayer. The flag of the Union, the symbol of the nationality of the republic, was to be unfurled over the fort. The flag-staff was planted, and the banner about to be run up. As Major Anderson, the commander of the fort, and his little band of loyal soldiers, gathered round the flag-staff, they all knelt with reverence, and the chaplain led in a fervent prayer to Almighty God to protect the flag and preserve the nation. After the prayer, the banner went up and floated over the fort; but in two days it was stricken down.

Major Anderson, in describing his course while in command of Fort Sumter, says, -

God has really seemed to bless us in every important step we have taken since I have been in command. My constant appeal has been for wisdom and understanding of his Divine will, and for strength of purpose and resolution to perform my whole duty. We have been aided, too, by the prayers of our Christian friends. I humbly believe he has graciously listened to our prayers. I hope all Christians of our beloved country will continue in prayer, entreating God to have mercy on our people, to save us from our sins, and to unite us again as a people, not only in our civil Government, but one people in our love and adoration of his holy name.

I put my trust in God; and I firmly believe that God put it into my heart to do what I did. I believe, truly, that every act that was performed in that harbor from the 21st of November, when I took command, was ruled by that God whom we all should adore, and whom we must adore if we wish to do well both in this world and the next. I believe that every act done there was necessary in order to bring up the public heart to that sentiment of patriotism which now pervades throughout the North.

The spirit and power of prayer became prevalent throughout the North as the great conflict progressed. The Christian public and all serious-minded men felt that the moral influence of prayer must guide and guard the national armaments and hover over and inspire our armies. Hence, in every closet, round every family altar, in every praying circle, in the Sabbath convocation, there was an outpouring of fervent prayer that God would vindicate the cause of the Government and suppress speedily the rebellion.

The various ministers of Providence, Rhode Island, met and issued, in June, 1861, the following circular:-

To the Pastors, Churches, and Congregations of the State.

CHRISTIAN BRETHREN AND FELLOW-CITIZENS: -

We, who are of different denominations, and are resident together in this city, take a liberty, which you will not count assumption, to propose to you an observance of special prayer, now, for our country. We deem the exercises of such a service entirely appropriate to the Sabbath, and the Sabbath the day of the seven for the fullest attendance upon it, and for its highest influence for good. And, hoping that if it be a little deferred it may be the more extensively and effectually observed, we name for it the third Sabbath, occurring on the 19th day, of this month, May, 1861.

We make this proposal, because you and we all believe in a special Providence, and that its most special interpositions are granted to united, effectual, fervent prayer, and because, also, our precious country now urgently needs great Divine doings for us. Already have we, more or less, betaken ourselves to the mercy-seat for these great Divine move-ments on our behalf. And, when we had scarcely stammered the timid preface to our petition, a wonder answered that will long amaze the thoughtful to adoration. Up to that moment, doubtful in ourselves and distrustful of one another, in an instant our millions leaped to their feet, a giant unit of patriotism; life and property largely offered one readiest gift for our glorious land and its best, noblest Government on earth. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. For it let our glad thanksgivings mingle and vie with all the prayer we have yet to offer on this behalf. Indeed, let us daily hold our gratitude faithful before God for each new brightening omen.

Yet we have vast needs remaining, which he only can meet. Our first infinite need is, ever devoutly to feel that he is our all in all of help, and with all our heart to be delightedly jealous for his sole honor, as being all this to us. And to so great grace we can attain only as his Spirit shall steadily move us to it. We need to know that the battle is not to the strong, except as he shall fill the measure of their needed strength every moment of their conflict unto victory. Our brave patriotism, also, he only can hold steadfast, ever growing stronger. But all our great needs he will meet, if we but duly ask, and, duly asking, also duly act. "Ask," he says," and ye shall receive." "If ye agree, it shall be done unto you."

And let us begin our requests where it so becomes sinners to begin, penitently confessing to God our own and our nation's sins, and imploring him most graciously to forgive them all, and by his Spirit most effectually to turn ourselves and our whole people from them all; we, while we so pray, turning ourselves "with full purpose of heart," in the Spirit's power, from all our Heaven-offending ways. And let us appeal to our infinite Helper that he will give complete and speedy success to the whole right in this struggle for it, and will do it in so clear lighting down of his own mighty arm that the praise shall rise from all hearts, as to him alone; and let us ask that he will so do it as chiefly to magnify peace while, if it must be, he also duly magnifies righteous war. Let us beseech him that he will ever guide and guard all our rulers, leaders, soldiers, and people; that he will greatly bless our own citizen soldiery and their homes; that he will signally, in highest mercy, revolutionize the whole mind of the South to repentance, to thorough Christian government and liberty, will also fix all minds in the North, from this time, complete and immovable in the principles of such government and liberty, and that he will wonderfully annihilate the power of Satan from this national scene of wicked, treacherous, bloody usurpation and oppression, and will issue it all in the most glorious salvation of souls by his Spirit: that all these things and far more, he will do, for the sake of his dear Son.

For so great a rescue and blessing of our country, should not our whole State, on the day set apart, be one importunate concert of the prayerful, in the closet, the family, the prayer-meeting, and the house of prayer?

Yours, for Christ and our country's cause.

In the month of May, 1861, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (New School) met at Syracuse, New York. During their session special seasons of prayer were set apart, in which the piety and patriotism of the Assembly were delightfully developed. The following is an account of the second prayer-meeting of the Assembly:-

The second prayer-meeting, held last evening by the General Assembly in Rev. Dr. Canfield's church, was remarkable for the number of persons present, the exciting character of the exercises, and the distinguished men who participated. Rev. Dr. Jenkins, of Philadelphia, presided, and various prayers were offered and numerous addresses made. The character of all the exercises was that of earnest Christian patriotism, and the warmest love for Christ and our country. Rev. Dr. Nelson, from St. Louis, said that the recent conflict in that city between the citizens and soldiers was almost within sight of his church. He had faith in the steadfastness of the State, and did not believe she would be faithless to her duty or the Constitution. It was his conviction that God designed it as a chastisement and as a means of grace to the country. He thought the camp was now one of the most interesting fields of Christian labor, and there, he thought, might be put forth the most successful religious efforts. Thousands were first giving themselves to their country, and then to their God. He saw no reason to doubt that there would yet be an extensive camp-revival.

Rev. Mr. Emerson, from the "Pea-Patch" in Delaware, said that he had recently visited the fort in his neighborhood. He found large numbers of pious young men among the soldiers, some of whom were very active as Christians. Some who never before had manifested any interest in religion were earnest readers of the Bible. Two or three young men had proposed a prayer-meeting and the study of the Scriptures. Some of their comrades objected, but offered to compromise by having the Bible read and omitting the prayers. This was done; but it resulted in the establishment of both exercises, and some conversions. They said they had given themselves to their country, and, as they might soon be called to die for her, they had resolved to die Christians. They were having the most common soldier's fare, and sleeping upon straw, and yet they were happy and contented. He added that Delaware was loyal to the country and the Constitution, and always had been, and always would be; and, though small, she was the "Diamond" State. Delaware was the first to adopt the Coiistitution, and would be the last to desert it.

Rev. Dr. Darling, of Philadelphia, said he was delighted to hear from his brother Emerson such gratifying details from Fort Delaware. He had two of the most valued young men in his church in that fortress. Just before he left home, he saw them, and they united together in prayer. Not many days since, in Philadelphia, he stood by the bedside of the venerable Dr. Nott, who then was supposed to be on his dying bed. It was at that period when Washington City was in peril. Drums were heard, and the tramp and cheers of soldiers. The venerable man, stirred in his heart by the passing events, roused himself iip, and said, "I don't know how you young men stand this, but it almost takes the heart out of me. I saw the Constitution adopted, but I don't want to live to see it destroyed." Dr. Darling said, I see no cause for despondency. The hour of trial has come. The peril is upon us. Yet I am more proud than ever of my country. Can we expect vigor without hardships, or manhood without perils? England has passed through fiery trials, been baptized in blood, and this has made her what she is, - established her as the mistress of the world.

Rev. Asa Eaton said there was in the house, near him, a venerable man, who was nearly a century old, who had been a minister of the gospel over sixty years! He alluded to the Rev. Mr. Waldo. The venerable man, still hale and healthy, was led forward, and mounted the platform with ease and almost elasticity, although now pinety-nine years old! In a clear and almost powerful voice, with the vast audience almost hushed to stillness, he spoke a few words and then uttered a brief but most solemn, expressive prayer. He said he remembered well the battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill, being then thirteen years of age. He felt how important was the war, and he was only afraid then it would be over before he would be old enough to join in it. He never expected to live to see the Constitution destroyed. Nothing had ever grieved him so much as the present state of things. He knew there were lovely men at the South, good Christian men, but wicked people were now trying to ruin the country and destroy the Union. But he was glad there was unanimity North. This harmony was delightful. He was glad the Constitution was to be sustained; but one of the best ways to maintain it was through the prayers of the children of God.

Rev. Dr. Cox introduced Rev. Pastor Fische. He expressed great delight in having had his stay prolonged in this country so that he could visit this General Assembly and be present at the prayer-meeting. He arrived here in September, and had witnessed the canvass and saw all the war-movements. The Protestants of Europe are looking to your struggles with intense interest. Political and religious liberty is invoked in your efforts. If you succeed, it will be a day of rejoicing with us. You are remembered in our prayer-meetings. War is a great evil, but out of it in France has come much good. The army is the best part of the people, but yet they are aU forced soldiers. They often cut off their fingers to escape enlistmeat. Among them the Bible is studied, and this book is freely circulated. We will pray for you, and you must pray for us. Your country is a blessed country. You are the hot current which carries religious liberty and civilization everywhere.

Rev. Mr. Canfield, the pastor of the church, said some surprise had been expressed that there was no flag floating from its steeple. It was hardly necessary. It was here (patting his hand upon his heart) with him and his people. The meeting had been in session over two hours, and no one seemed willing to have it terminate. But all things must have an end, and the presiding officer, Rev. Dr. Jenkins, said it had been proposed that another meeting would be held the succeeding (Saturday) evening. "I am not certain," said he, "that these are not the best days this country ever saw." After the benediction was pronounced, the choir, accompanied by the organ and the entire audience, sang superbly the "Star-Spangled Banner.'' The entire exercises of the evening were of the most exciting, but chastened, patriotic, Christian character.

The Right Reverend Bishop Potter, of the Episcopal Church, issued the following form of prayer, to be used in the churches in his diocese:-

O Almighty God, who art a strong tower of defence to those who put their trust in thee, whose power no creature is able to resist, we make our humble cry to thee in this hour of our country's need. Thy property is always to have mercy. Deal not with us according to our sins, neither reward us according to our iniquities; but stretch forth the right hand of thy majesty, and be our defence for thy name's sake. Have pity upon our brethren who are in arms against the constituted authorities of the land, and show .them the error of their way. Shed upon the counsels of our rulers the spirit of wisdom and moderation and firmness, and unite the hearts of our people as the heart of one man in upholding the supremacy of law and the cause of justice and peace. Abate the violence of passion; banish pride and prejudice from every heart, and incline us all to trust in thy righteous providence and to be ready for every duty. And oh that in thy great mercy thou wouldst hasten the return of unity and concord to our borders, and so order all things that peace and happiness, truth and justice, religion and piety, may be established among us for all generations. These things, and whatever else thou shalt see to be necessary and convenient for us, we humbly beg, through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen.

The Bishop of Minnesota issued the following pastoral letter and form of prayer:-

Faribault, April 17, 1861.

To the Clergy and Congregations of the Diocese of Minnesota.

DEAR BRETHREN: - Our beloved country is imperilled by civil war. Every thing which the Christian and patriot holds dear is in jeopardy. Our country's flag is dishonored. Our Government is defied. Our laws are broken. Bitterest hatred is kindled between sections of a common country. Brother is arrayed against brother. Every thing seems to foreshadow the most awful strife which has ever darkened our land. The duty of the Christian is plain. He must be loyal to the Government. Our only hope in this day of peril, under the protection of Almighty God, is to stand firm as loyal and law-abiding citizens. Every tie of party, friendship, and kindred sinks into insignificance before the impending danger. The lessons of our holy religion teach loyalty, - first, loyalty to God, and second, loyalty to those whom the providence of Qod has made the guardians of our country.

The duty is no less plain, as followers of Jesus Christ, to seek and pray for peace. Let us, therefore, be careful that no word or deed of ours fans the flame of discord. Let us ever have the olive-branch in our hands, and the love of God in our hearts! Let the memory of happier days tell us of the time when our fathers stood shoulder to shoulder in fighting the battles of freedom.

Disobedience to God, irreverence for his holy name and word, disloyalty to Government, and disregard of law, are the causes which have brought the nation to the verge of ruin, and of which no portion of the land is guiltless.

I earnestly beseech you, therefore, in this day of a common sorrow, to turn with all your hearts unto God. Let our churches be vocal with prayer; let our closets witness our devotions; let us not look to any arm of flesh, but to God, who alone can deliver us from our peril.

I hereby set forth the following prayer, to be used after the General Thanksgiving at daily morning and evening prayer.

Praying God to bless you all, I am your friend and bishop,

Henry B. Whipple, Bishop of Minnesota.

Prayer.

Almighty and everlasting God, our only refuge in the hour of peril, look with pity upon the desolations of our beloved country. Our sins have called for thy righteous judgments. We confess our guilt and bewail our transgressions. O Lord, in thy judgment remember mercy. Take away from us all hatred and strife. Spare us, for thy Church's sake, for the sake of thy dear Son, from the calamities of civil war which have fallen upon us. Give thy Holy Spirit to our rulers, that they may, under thy protection, save this great nation from anarchy and ruin. Preserve them from all blindness, pride, prejudice, and enmity. Give unto the people unity, a love of justice, and an understanding heart. Restrain the wrath of man, and save the effusion of blood. Bring again the blessings of peace, and grant unto us a heart to serve thee and walk before thee in holiness all the days of our life. These things, which we are not worthy to ask, we humbly beg, for the Sake of thy dear Son our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.

The following prayer was recommended to be used by the congregations of the United Brethren: -

To the Congregations of the United Brethren in the Northern District of the United States.

We recommend that during the continuance of the present civil war the subjoined petitions be substituted for the petitions in our Church Litany designated as "to be prayed in time of war."

Your Brethren or the Provincial Elders' Conference.

Bethlehem, September 1, 1861.

O thou Almighty Lord God of Hosts, who rulest and commandest all things,

We call upon thee in this time of our trouble;

Take our cause into thine own hands:

Lord, come and help us!

Save and defend our country;

Revive in all hearts a spirit of devotion to the public good;

Fill the President of the United States with the spirit of wisdom and understanding;

Let thy Divine protection and guidance be over all who serve in council or in the field; and so rule their hearts and strengthen their hands that they may preserve to us the goodly heritage which thou gavest to our fathers;

Forgive our adversaries, and turn again their hearts toward us;

Cause us to humble ourselves under thy mighty hand, and to confess and bewail the grievous sins which have drawn these thy judgments upon us;

Turn us, God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease;

Oh, bring this unhappy war to a speedy end, and let a just and lasting peace be soon again established, to the glory of thy name.

Hear us, gracious Lord and God.

Thou Helper of all who flee to thee for succor,

We commend to thy almighty care and protection all those who have gone forth in our defence;

Guard them, we beseech thee, from the dangers that beset their way; from sickness, from the violence of enemies, and from every peril to which they may be exposed ;

Give them comfort in every time of their need, and a sure confidence in thee; and of thy great goodness restore them to us, in due time, in health and safety.

Hear us, gracious Lord and God.

Bishop Purcell, of the Catholic Church, in the Diocese of Cincinnati, issued the following pastoral circular:-

To the Right Reverend Prelates, the Very Reverend and Reverend Clergy, and beloved Laity of the Province of Cincinnati.

Beloved Brethren and Fellow-Servants or Christ:-

The Ecclesiastical Council of the province convenes in this city tomorrow. It convenes under such circumstances as were never before witnessed in this glorious republic since the proud day when it won its high rank among the nations of the earth. The hearts of citizens and friends are Alienated. The hands of brothers are raised to shed each others' life-blood. The iron bands of our highways, which we once fondly hoped would link us in indissoluble union, and the noble rivers which bear the rich products of our lands and the creations of our sciences and arts to our respective marts and homes, have failed to keep us, what God and our fathers intended we should be, one people.

In the midst of the most formidable preparations of our fellow-citizens for mutual destruction, the Church, in her peaceful meeting, gives us a glimpse of the peace of the heavenly Jerusalem. She renews the blessings of the "Truce of God." We pray God that hostilities may cease, that wiser and better counsels may prevail, and that the great heart of this magnificent land which our Council represents - the States of Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan - may send its throbbing pulses of fraternal love to the most distant extremities of our common country. We ought to be one people. We are all the children of the same God, whom we should worship in peace; we pray for all and love all in spirit and in truth. May the Spirit of Peace, the Comforter, sent us by Jesus Christ, descend as the dove, to breathe holy desires and righteous counsels into every heart, and dispose the minds of Catholics and Protestants to see in each other not enemies, but brethren, and that all may work with willing hands and hearts for the tranquillity and glory of our common country.

J. B. Purcell, Archbishop of Cincinnati.

"There has probably been more prayer," said a religious paper, "offered for this country, within the last twelve months, than in all the years before since the war of the Revolution. And it is now being answered. In fact, our successes began at the point of our lowest humiliation, and have continued to advance ever since. In our darkest hour we had to fall back upon the moral convictions which lie at the foundation of our system, - the Divine right of liberty and popular government, and the necessity of Providential protection for the triumph of the right. When we hardly believed that we any longer had a Government, when the nation was reeling with the public confusion and the fear that our whole system was collapsing, the conviction arose strong in the religious mind that God would not, could not, give it over to destruction; for, notwithstanding its great corruptions, it was full of churches and other institutions of faith and beneficence; it had millions of praying people; it had momentous connections with the foreign interests of religion and civilization. It appeared impossible that God could cast it away while thus intimately related to his general kingdom in the world. And, then, its history was apparently but begun; not only had its career been comparatively brief in time, but, great as had been its advances in industry, invention, commerce, education, it had evidently only begun to develop its vigor and resources.

"It became the general sense that we were passing through an ordeal of purification rather than destruction. A profound moral feeling began to pervade the sorrow-stricken mind of the country. Good men betook themselves to importunate prayer. Public fasts were observed; religious assemblies were held in behalf of the country. Almost every pulpit discussed public affairs from a religious stand-point; our social religious occasions soon became characterized by a profound sympathy with, and supplications for, the public interest; our family prayers were burdened with the same theme; and millions of devout men and women mourned in their closets of devotion over the national sins and perils.

"Never since the American Revolution have the masses of the American people entertained so general and impressive a conviction of God's overruling providence in human affairs as at the present time.

"Never before have so many earnest hearts been lifted in prayer, night and day, to the God of battles as now, - mothers praying for their sons, sisters for their brothers, wives for their husbands. Never in the thousands of Christian pulpits of the free States has the gospel been more earnestly, broadly, and fervently preached than during the present moral crisis of the age. It is the testimony of many ministers that the exercise of public prayer in the sanctuary - sprayer for the outpouring of God's Spirit upon the people, for victories to our armies, for the binding up of wounded hearts at home, for the sick languishing in hospitals, for the Divine guidance of the President and all others in authority - never has been more impressive, hearty, and touching than in these very Sabbath days whose quietude has been disturbed by the echoes of war.

"Can any one doubt that the prevailing moral tone of the public mind is constantly improving? Every day witnesses the cheering growth of a general sentiment favoring liberty and justice, prompting to individual self-sacrifice, inspiring a courageous spirit among the masses, kindling a general zeal of patriotism, and maintaining a cheerful faith that God will give final victory to the right.

"The religious spirit of the nation, instead of decaying, is daily making men's hearts more reverent, more humble, more courageous, and more worthy of our first national heritage of liberty, which God is now a second time purifying by fire!"

The President of the United States, by a joint resolution of request from Congress, issued, on the 12th day of August, 1861, a proclamation appointing the last Thursday of September ensuing "as a day of humiliation, prayer, and fasting, ... to the end that the united prayers of the nation may ascend to the throne of grace and bring down plentiful blessings upon our own country." The proclamation will be found in a former chapter of this volume. The day was devoutly observed throughout the loyal States and in the capital of the nation, and exerted a healthful religious influence upon the people.

Back to top

3) THE ACTION OF THE VARIOUS CHRISTIAN DENOMINATIONS ON THE STATE OF THE COUNTRY. 

3.1) THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL NEW YORK CONFERENCE, March, 1861.

Whereas an attack has been made on the flag of our country, in violation of the public peace, and threatening the existence of our Government, - and whereas we love peace and are the ministers of the Prince of peace, yet hold it to be the duty of all men to love their country and to cherish freedom, and especially in times of peril to offer our civil rulers our aid and sympathy: therefore,

Resolved, That we do here and now declare our earnest and entire sympathy with the cause of our country in this conflict, and our purpose to use all means legitimate to our calling to sustain the Government of the United States in defence and support of the Constitution and the nation's welfare.

Resolved, That, in duty bound, we will not cease to pray in public and in private for the Divine blessing upon our country, for the suppression of rebellion, and the speedy restoration of peace, especially beseeching Almighty God that, if in his justice he chastise us, his mercies may so temper his wrath that we may not be wholly destroyed.

3.2) ERIE ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF PENNSYLVANIA, APRIL, 1861.

Resolved, That, in its prompt and vigorous efforts to preserve the Union, and suppress rebellion and treason, the Government at Washington shall have our earnest sympathy and prayers, our hearty approval and co-operation. 

Resolved, That we are opposed to all compromises with armed traitors, believing that unconditional submission to the Constitution and laws of our country is a duty which our Government has both the right and power to enforce.

Resolved, That we confidently trust the time has come when slavery shall no longer be the controlling power either in our domestic or foreign relations, but that its influence in the affairs of the nation shall grow less and less, until it shall please God to remove the great evil altogether.

Resolved, That, without intending any improper interference with the affairs of the army, we respectfully and earnestly recommend to all officers in command to respect the obligations of the holy Sabbath, and to carefully guard the morals of our soldiers against those evils which are but too common to a state of war. Our confidence in the justice of our cause inspires the belief that complete success will be all the more certain and speedy by the careful observance of Christian morals.

3.3) RHODE ISLAND EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION, JUNE, 1861.

The Rhode Island Evangelical Consociation assembles in a day of grave events. Several States of this Union, bound to the national life, as all others, by all that is sacred in league and public compact, have joined in a revolt fomented and enacted by robbery, treason, and violence unparalleled in the history of nations.

We therefore declare our unqualified condemnation of this rebellion, begun in shameless treason, carried on in foulest corruption and remorseless violence. We judge it a scheme abhorred of God, and deserving the abhorrence of all good men to the end of time.

As Christian men and ministers of the gospel, we deplore with in-expressible grief the collusion, in this iniquitous and devastating usurpation, of Christian ministers and professed disciples of Him at whose blessed kingdom these crimes are destructive strokes; and while we deplore their participation in these "deeds of darkness," we sincerely pray, "Father, forgive: they know not what they do."

We also deeply sympathize with the numbers enforced by dominant terrorism into silence, flight, or position in which love of life and love of country distress their choice ; and we remember them as bound with them.

We also would assure the Government of the United States of our unceasing prayers to Heaven on their behalf; and we entreat all who direct affairs to continue to temper the retributions of justice with humane execution; to make full provision for the moral and religious wants of the army by chaplains, and by such regulations and dissemination of religious reading as shall shield our beloved friends engaged in the national service from the fatal contaminations of an otherwise debased camp.

We also recognize with thanks to God the numbers of pious men, both officers and privates, drawn from our churches and congregations; and we assure them of our constant and affectionate remembrance.

This Consociation would also record their special approval of the decisive, generous, and timely patriotism of his Excellency the Governor of this State, of the officers of the Government, and of the Assembly co-operating with him and them.

We therefore pledge to one another, and to all engaged in the support of our Government, our earnest supplications that the Divine blessing and continued sympathy may attend them in a complete success.

3.4) HUDSON RIVER BAPTIST ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK, JUNE, 1861.

The committee appointed to consider the duties that pertain to our relations as Christian citizens and churches to the nation at large and the Government that protects us, beg leave to report the following statement, preamble, and resolutions: -

3.4.1) STATEMENT

The letters from the churches that compose this association have expressed, in the most solemn manner, their sense of painful bereavement caused by the departure of their brethren, fellow-worshippers, and Sabbath-school teachers, from their various fields of labor, to the camp and the battle-field for the defence of our country against an armed rebellion that seeks the utter destruction of the Constitution that shelters us, and is aiming fatal blows at the foundation of all effective government, of all righteous law, of all social order, and of national prosperity . At the same time, these letters declare, without any exception, the fixed determination of our brethren, by means of every sacrifice that God may permit them to offer, to uphold our Federal Government in the deadly contest that has been ruthlessly forced upon it, until it shall have re-established its supreme authority over every part of its domain whence that authority has been defied, and shall have caused our desecrated banner to wave again over every spot of earth whence the hand of treason may have displaced it.

We hail with joy, with hope, and responsive devotion to a common cause the expression of these stern and sacred resolves as the expression of "sentiments proper to the present crisis."

Therefore, the Committee propose to this association the following preamble and resolutions for their consideration and adoption: -

3.4.2) PREAMBLE

Whereas the Government of the United States, which was bequeathed to us by our fathers, who established it by the sacrifice of blood and of treasure for the protection of their own inalienable rights and of the children that should come after them, is now engaged in a struggle with banded and armed traitors for its very existence; and

Whereas, These men, the leaders of this war, having recognized the supreme authority of what is called "The Confederate States of America," have proclaimed as the vital doctrine of their coalition that "All government begins with usurpation and is continued by force;

"That nature puts the ruling elements uppermost, and the masses below and subject to those elements;

"That less than this is not a government;

"That the right to govern resides with a very small minority; and the duty to obey is inherent in the great mass of mankind;

"And that man's right of property in man is the true corner-stone of a republic, and of all permanent social prosperity."

3.4.3) RESOLUTIONS

Therefore, Resolved, That we solemnly abjure, denounce, and resist these doctrines, as being essentially antichristian, pagan, barbarous, inhuman.

Resolved, That we declare it to be our solemn conviction, as Christian men, who take the word of God as our rule of faith and practice, that the cause which the Government of the United States is now sustaining by its arms is the cause of righteousness, of freedom, and of humanity; and that for its support we pledge our toils, our prayers, "our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor."

Resolved, That in the spontaneous uprising of twenty millions of people for the support and honor of our country's flag we recognize not the working of a blind sentiment or unreasoning passion, but the out-gush of a stronger, holier love, carrying the whole force of our moral nature with it, because it is nourished by those lofty and eternal ideas which emanate from the mind of God, which were enshrined in the religion of our Messiah's cross, which are associated with the sacred rights, the elevation and the progress, of our redeemed humanity,-ideas that are dear to the heart of our enthroned sovereign, to which we most devoutly pledge unalterable allegiance, while we adopt the words of the inspired Psalmist of Israel: - "Thou hast given a banner to them that feared thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth."

Resolved, That, while we desire peace and pray for peace as being in its nature an inestimable blessing, nevertheless peace itself, or compromise of any sort, would be worse than all the ravages of war, if the enemies of our Government should so far prevail as to give the leading character to public opinion or to a national policy; because such a state of things would separate us from the sympathies of Christendom, and bring down upon us the curses of every civilized community in Europe, in Asia, in Australia, and in the "isles of the sea," because the course of events have brought us to a crisis that is ultimate, beyond which there is no issue for which any party can make a stand in behalf of any idea that enfolds a hopeful future; and therefore better for us to perish now in the struggle for the eternal right, than to experience the degradation of an inglorious life, or the pangs of a lingering death, under that reign of terror which the enemies of our banner would be sure to inaugurate.

Resolved, That, as Christian men, we recognize the truly righteous character of this conflict; that while it may be properly regarded as a war for our nationality, or a war for the life of a constitutional government, or for the maintenance of our flag, or as a war for the rights of the people against the usurpations of an oligarchy, nevertheless beyond all these aims we recognize the existence of a war waged for the absolute supremacy of a despotic earthly power on the one hand, against the rightful dominion of our Lord Jesus Christ, whose kingdom guarantees the inalienable and universal rights of our redeemed humanity, on the other.

Resolved, That, in view of the death of our Lord and Saviour for men of every rank and class, of every nation, tribe, "kith or kin," we regard the brotherhood of man, the moral and spiritual equality of all the races of men, as an essential doctrine of the Christian religion; that it rests like a sure corner-stone upon the foundation that God hath laid in Zion; that whosoever falleth upon that stone shall be broken, but upon whomsoever it shall fall it will grind him to powder.

Resolved, That, in the patriotic devotion of the Christian women of our land, we hail a "sign of the times" propitious of success; and, while we remember that for many centuries in Europe the virtues of Christian womanhood have been a great barrier against the triumphs of antichristian barbarism, we commend the cause of our country in its day of peril to the prayers and co-operation of the mothers and daughters of Israel and to the cherished sympathies of every household.

Resolved, That we cherish a profound regard for the thousands of our brethren within the bounds of the Southern States who are loyal to the Government for which their fathers as well as ours sacrificed treasure and blood and transmitted to all as a common heritage; and while many of them may have been deceived by misrepresentation in respect to the sentiments we cherish towards them, and while all of them are prevented from realizing in action personal convictions of truth and duty, we extend to them the assurances of our fraternal confidence and of our continuance in prayer that God would soon appear for their deliverance, so that the bonds which have united us in former days may be strengthened by the fiery trials through which they shall have passed.

Resolved, That the churches connected with this Association be requested to set apart the last Friday of June as a day of solemn humiliation and prayer for the re-establishment of our national union in peace and prosperity.

3.5) DECLARATION AND RESOLUTIONS OF THE BAPTISTS, MET AT BROOKLYN, NEW YORK, MAY 29, 1861.

The Assembly of Baptists, gathered from the various Northern States of the Union, would, in the present solemn crisis of our national history, put on record some expression of their judgment as Christians, loving their country and seeking in the fear and from the grace of God its best interests. We are threatened to be rent, as a people, into two hostile camps: several States of the Union have claimed to release themselves by their own act from the National Constitution and Union, having formed what they designate as a confederacy. They have seized the national forts, armaments, and ships. Such proceedings on the part of a neighboring community would be actual war. Yet there has been no precedent such as in modern contests inaugurates ordinary hostilities. They have bombarded a national garrison. The General Government at Washington have refused to recognize the right of secession, and have proclaimed alike their own right and their own purpose to occupy the national property and defences now usurped. One of the foremost statesmen in the new movement, and himself the executive officer of the new assumed Confederacy, had declared African slavery the immediate cause of the revolution thus attempted. He has alleged that the old - and, as the North deems it, the only existing -Constitution regarded such slavery as wrong in principle, and that the founders of this Constitution expected the bondage, in some way and at some time, to vanish. He declares of the new Confederate States that they assume as their basis the fundamental erroneousness of such original estimate and expectation on the part of the fathers of our land. Accepting not only the propriety but the perpetuity of such servitude, he places the new government on the alleged inferiority of the negro race as its corner-stone. He claims for the new confederacy that it is the first government in all history thus inaugurated on this new truth, as he would call it. He invites the Northwestern States to enter the Confederacy. But he anticipated the disintegration of the older States; and he declares that, in case of these last, admission to the new Confederacy must not be merely by reconstruction, but reorganization and assimilation. In other words, African bondage seems required as the mortar that is to agglutinate and the rock that is to sanction the recombined and rebuilt sovereignty that shall include even these last. Those high in position in the new organization of the South have proclaimed the intent of seizing the national capital and flaunting their flag on the seats of Northern State government. The President of the United States has summoned a large and formidable force to the metropolis of the Union, rallying to the defence of the General Government. Remembering their own character as the servants of the Prince of peace, this Assembly would speak fraternally, not heedlessly exasperating strife, but also with a frankness and decision as not endorsing injustice. The Church is a kingdom not of the world. But the men of the Church are not the less bound to recognize and loyally to uphold all rightful secular government.

The powers that be are ordained of God, and the magistracy is by his will to bear the sword not in vain. Christ, in his Messiahship, would not be made a judge or a divider as to the statutes and estates of this earth; but he did not therefore abrogate the tribunals of earthly judgment. To Cæsar he bade us render Cæsar's dues. He cherished and exemplified patriotism when answering to the appeal made to him in the behalf of that Gentile ruler, as far as one who loved "our" (Jewish) nation. He showed it when weeping as he predicted the coming woes of his own people and of their chief city. The gospel of Christ, then, sanctions and consecrates true patriotism. Shall the Christians of the North accept the revolution thus to be precipitated upon them, as warranted and necessary? or shall they acquiesce in it as inevitably dismissing the question of its origin in the irrecoverable past? Shall they wait hopefully the verdict of the nations and the sentence of Providence upon the new basis of this extemporized Confederacy? Meanwhile, shall they submit passively to the predicted disintegration of their own North, pondering wistfully upon the possibilities of their own reorganization to qualify them for their admission on the novel platform, and for their initiation into the new principles of this most summary revolution? The memories of the past and the hopes of the future; history and Scripture; the fear of God and regard to the well-being of man; the best interests of their own estranged brethren at the South, and their own rights and duties, not to themselves and their children only, but as the stewards of constitutional liberty in behalf of all other nations, encouraged by our success, as such remotest nations are baffled and misled, as by our failure such nations would necessarily be, - all considerations unite in shutting up the Christians of the North to one course.

The following resolutions present correspondingly what, in our judgment, is the due course of our churches and people: -

Resolved, That the doctrine of secession is foreign to our Constitution, revolutionary, suicidal, - setting out in anarchy, and finding its ultimate issue in despotism.

Resolved, That the National Government deserves our loyal adhesion and unstinted support in its wise, forbearing, and yet firm maintenance of the national unity and life; and that, sore, long, and costly as the war may be, the North has not sought it, and the North does not shun it, if Southern aggressions press it; and that a surrender of the national Union and our ancestral principles would involve sorer evils, and longer continuance, and vaster costliness.

Resolved, That the wondrous uprising, in strongest harmony and largest self-sacrifice, of the whole North to assert and vindicate the national unity, is the cause of grateful amazement and devoutest acknowledgment to the God who sways all hearts and orders all events; and that this resurgent patriotism, wisely cherished and directed, may, in God's blessed discipline, correct evils that seemed chronic and irremediable in the national character.

Resolved, That, fearful as is the scourge of war even in the justest cause, we need, as a nation, to humble ourselves before God for the vainglory, self-confidence, greed, venality, and corruption of manners too manifest in our land; that in its waste of property and life, its invasion of the Sabbath, its demoralization, and its barbarism, we see the evils to which it strongly tends; but that, waged in a good cause and in the fear of God, it may be to a people, as it often in past times has been, a stern but salutary lesson for enduring good. In this struggle, the churches of the North should, by prayer for them, the distribution of Scripture and tract, and the encouragement of devout chaplains, seek the religious culture of their brave soldiers and mariners.

Resolved, That the North seek not, in any sense, the subjugation of the South, or the horrors of a servile war, or the devastation of their homes by reckless and imbruted mercenaries, but believe most firmly the rejection, were it feasible, of the Constitution and Union would annihilate the best safeguard of Southern peace.

Resolved, That the churches of our denomination be urged to set apart the last Friday in June as a day of solemn humiliation and prayer for the interposition of God's gracious care to hinder or to limit the conflict, to stay the wrath, and to sanctify the trial; and that one hour also in the Friday evening of each week be observed as a season of intercession, privately, for our country during this period of her gloom and peril.

Resolved, That, brought nearer as eternity and judgment are in such times of sharp trial and sudden change, it is the duty of all to redeem the fleeting hour, - the duty of all Christ's people to see that the walls of Zion be built in troublous times, and to hope only and ever in that wonder-working God who made British missions to India and the South Seas to grow amid the Napoleon wars; who trained, in Serampore missions, Havelock, the Christian warrior, as, two centuries before, he had prepared in the wars of the Commonwealth the warrior Baxter, who wrote, as army chaplain, the "Saint's Everlasting Rest," and the Bunyan who described for all after-time the "Pilgrim's Progress" and "The Holy War."

Resolved, That what was bought at Bunker Hill, Valley Forge, and Yorktown was not with our consent sold at Montgomery; that we dispute the legality of the bargain, and, in the strength of the Lord God of our fathers, shall hope to contest through this generation, if need be, the feasibility of the transfer.

Bishop Whittingham, of Maryland, issued the following circular to the Episcopal churches in his diocese, May, 1861: -

REVEREND AND DEAR BRETHREN: - I have learned with extreme regret that in several instances the "Prayer for the President of the United States and all in civil authority" has been omitted, of late, in the performance of Divine service in the diocese.

Such omission in every case makes the clergyman liable for presentment for wilful violation of his ordination vow, by mutilation of the worship of the Church; and I shall hold myself bound to act on any evidence of such offence laid before me after the issue of this circular.

I beseech my brethren to remember that current events have settled any question that might have been started concerning citizenship and allegiance. Maryland is admitted and declared by the Legislature and Governor of the State to be at this time one of the United States of America. As resident in Maryland, the clergy of this diocese are citizens of the United States, and bound to the recognition and discharge of all duties appertaining to that condition. It is clearly such a duty, by the express word of God, to make supplication and prayer for the chief magistrate of the Union, and for all that are in authority, that we lead a quiet and peaceful life, in all godliness and honesty; and it is clearly my duty, by the same direction, to put those whom God has committed to my charge in mind to be subject to the principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers. To my deep distress and disquiet, I have too much reason to fear that in one instance a minister of Christ may have so far forgotten himself, his place, and his duty as actually to commit the canonical offence known as "brawling in the church," while resolving to do what an archangel durst not to do, and to defend transgression of an injunction of the word of God.

We of the clergy have no right to intrude our private views of the questions which are so terribly dividing those among whom we minister, into the place assigned us that we may speak for God and minister in his worship. Still less claim have we to assume to frame and fashion the devotions of the brethren by our private notions, and, to that end, interpolate and mutilate the service of the Church. In such times as these we are more strictly than ever bound to adhere to the precise letter of the prescribed form, and to deserve the praise of non-interference with others' rights by the closest seclusion within the limits of our plain duty.

It is not merely my advice, dear brethren, but it is the solemn injunction and caution of the word of God, to be reverenced and regarded accordingly as you believe it to be his: - "My son, fear thou the Lord and the king, and meddle not with them that are given to change; for their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth of them both? These things belong unto the wise."

Your loving friend and brother,

WM. R. WHITTINGHAM,

Bishop of Maryland.

BALTIMORE, Мау 15, 1861.

3.6) MASSACHUSETTS CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION, JULY, 1861.

Whereas our nation is at the present time engaged in a war for the suppression of treason and rebellion against the Government of the United States:

Resolved, That we, the General Association of Massachusetts, devoutly recognize and acknowledge our dependence upon the God of our fathers for the success of our arms and the establishment of the laws.

Resolved, That we cordially approve the vigorous measures of the Government for the maintenance of the Constitution, and that. we are ready to devote our property, our influence, and, if need be, our lives, in its vindication and support.

Resolved, That, while we earnestly desire the speedy return of peace to our divided country, we deprecate any concession or compromise which shall not secure the loyalty and obedience to the Federal Government of all the States of the Union, or which shall be inconsistent with the nationality of freedom.

Resolved, That, believing the institution of Slavery to have been the fruitful source of the great trouble now upon us, we cannot but pray and hope that the present war may be overruled by Divine Providence for the ultimate removal of human bondage from our land.

3.7) GENERAL CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ILLINOIS, JUNE, 1861.

Met in a time of national convulsion and civil war, we, the General Association of the Congregational ministers and churches of Illinois, deem it important to place on record our solemn convictions with regard to its origin and responsibility, and the duties which it devolves upon the people of God and the nation: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That American slavery is responsible, before God and man, for the present deplorable condition of our country; that the neglect to use appropriate measures in Church and State to secure the speedy and peaceful overthrow of oppression has involved the nation in civil war; that the slave-power has grown bolder and more rapacious in its demands with every passing year; and that its inability longer to control the Government has led to secret plots and open treasonable efforts to break up the Union and subvert our national Constitution.

Resolved, 2. That this rebellion is not only treason against the United States Government, but a revolt against the Divine scheme for the world's advance in civilization and religion, to which our land, with its free institutions, sustains so important a relation, and is, therefore, a high crime against universal humanity, and an impious defiance of Divine Providence.

Resolved, 3. That the Union instituted by our fathers fresh from the battles of liberty was intended to preserve and favor freedom and limit and discountenance slavery; that the Union constituted the several States one nation, with supreme political power in all the respects named in the Federal Constitution; and that the secession of any State can only be revolutionary in nature; while the present secession of slaveholding States is as destitute of moral justification as it is of constitutional validity.

Resolved, 4. That the present civil war is a heavy but just judgment from the hand of God for our national sins, and especially for the heaven-provoking sin of oppressing the poor; and that as the whole land has been involved in the guilt, so all its sections deserve and must expect to bear the retribution.

Resolved, 5. That, as the war is but the ripe and bitter fruit of slavery, we trust the American people will demand that it shall result in relieving our country entirely and forever of that sin and curse, that the future of our nation may never again be darkened by a similar night of treason.

Resolved, 6. That in the spirit of our Puritan ancestors, who preserved English liberty, and of our fathers, who fought in the battles of the American Revolution, we tender to the Federal authorities our cordial support to the very last, in the present life-and-death struggle for righteous laws and government, and assure them and the troops who have gone to the defence of freedom, that our prayers shall be continually offered to God that they may have the courage, wisdom, and success which the emergency demands and the nature of the conflict leads us to expect.

Resolved, 7. That the people of God should aim to give a high moral and religious tone to the war, as one means of obviating the evils attendant upon such a conflict; and that, to this end, pastors of churches, and chaplains in the army, should by their discourses purify public sentiment, direct the current of national purpose, and elevate military ardor, while the churches send forth their members, in the spirit of Christian patriotism, to fight the battles of their country, and supply the means of bringing religious truth to bear in every appropriate way upon the mind and heart of the army.

Resolved, 8. That we urge upon the Government the duty of making ample provision for the religious wants of the troops, as necessary alike to the spiritual welfare of the soldiers and the success of the war; and that we remind the civil and military authorities that no armies were ever more effective than those of the English Parliament, in which Richard Baxter was a chaplain, and that the invincible regiment of that army was "the Ironsides," led by Oliver Cromwell, and composed of godly men.

Resolved, 9. That we are gratified at the presence of so many religious men in the army, and at the efforts already made under official auspices to guard the troops against the demoralizing influences of war and to provide for their spiritual instruction upon the Sabbath; and we express the hope that all possible precautions will be taken not to encourage the desecration of the Sabbath by unnecessary parade or labor.

3.8) PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF OHIO.

Resolved, By the Convention of Clergy and by Delegates of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Ohio, now here assembled in Cleveland, that we cordially approve the sentiment and appreciate the wise counsels expressed by the bishop and assistant bishop on the present condition of our beloved country, in their several addresses yesterday, delivered to the Convention, and desire hereby fully to recognize our obligations, as Christian men, in this crisis, to stand by the Government in its efforts to maintain the Constitution.

Resolved, That we fervently hope, and our earnest prayer to God is, that the delusion which has seized the minds of so many of our brethren in the Southern States of this Union, originating, as we are constrained to believe, in an erroneous estimate of State sovereignty and a corresponding depreciation of the superior power of the National Government, maybe dispelled, and they be brought to unite with us in a holy endeavor that the Union may be preserved, the just authority of the Government maintained, and the blessings of peace again restored to our borders.

Resolved, That we have undiminished confidence in the piety and Christian spirit of the clergy and laity of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Southern States. We cannot, and we do not, believe they would willingly do wrong. We earnestly invite them to retrace their steps, to reconsider their actions and their published opinions, and to join with us in an effort to preserve the unity of the Church of Christ in the United States of America. Brethren of the South, in a question touching the existence of the Government under which we live, should not Christian brethren in all parts of the country have a voice?

Resolved, That, whether these counsels be heeded or disregarded, we still hope that our Southern brethren will not fail to send their bishops and clerical and lay delegates to the next General Convention, in 1862, that by prayer and supplication to God, by unimpassioned consultations and friendly conferences, we may yet adopt measures to prevent the sundering of those ties which are so essential to the prosperity and integrity of the nation.

3.9) GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES OF OHIO, JUNE, 1861.

Recognizing the present calamities of our country as the just judgment of God our heavenly Father sent upon us because of our sins and designed for our reformation, we are led to inquire for the causes which have thus brought his chastening hand upon us.

The brief enumeration of these calamities presents the spectacle of unjustifiable and wicked rebellion: - a band of conspirators in the interest of a gigantic system of unrighteous oppression, condemned by the word of God and the Spirit of Christ, seizing by fraud and force upon the Government of States, trampling under foot the liberties of their people, treasonably arraying their power against the General Government and its principle of universal human freedom, and inaugurating civil war, with its train of fearful and demoralizing evils, to desolate the land; the spectacle of large bodies of professedly Christian ministers and Churches uniting with these conspirators in prostituting the word of God and debauching the public conscience to the service of this monstrous sin; the spectacle of national industry paralyzed and impoverished, the hard-earned wealth of years and generations destroyed in a moment, by an immoral and profligate repudiation of just obligations, and the consuming necessities of war; the spectacle of a united, prosperous, and Christian nation approaching conditions of unexampled power for the kingdom of Christ, evidently checked in mid-career, its integrity and greatness imperilled, and its good name and usefulness among the nations threatened with blasting and destruction.

Reviewing these calamities, we are compelled to behold in them signal tokens of Divine displeasure with us as a nation, for that cupidity and pride which has led us to tolerate, or even maintain by direct or indirect means, that vast system of human chattelism for whose further aggrandizement this great nation is thus threatened with dismemberment and ruin, or the destruction of its free and Christian institutions.

As the Conference of the Congregational Churches of Ohio, engaged in establishing that kingdom whose foundations and spirit are righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, and the overthrow of every thing opposed to this, we are, therefore,

Resolved, That we see in the madness and wickedness of the conspirators against our Government a new proof of that disorganizing tendency of slavery which Christian statesmen and Christian philanthropists have ever asserted.

Resolved, That we acknowledge the Divine hand in our present troubles, and that we discover in them a sign of righteous indignation, on the one hand, at the iniquity which has so cruelly degraded the bondman, and, on the other, at the mercenary spirit which has persuaded this whole people to strike hands with oppression for the sake of gain.

Resolved, That with devout gratitude to our God we recognize the presence and power of the Christian element of this nation in the present conflict for the cause of truth and our national integrity, and that we regard this cheering fact as an assurance of ultimate and complete re-establishment of the Government's authority, throughout the whole extent of our country, upon purer and firmer foundations.

Resolved, That, with humble acknowledgment of our sins and unworthiness as a nation, we make our united supplications unto God that he will turn us away from our sins, giving all our people a heart to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly before him; and that while we yield ourselves to maintain the cause of right and righteous Government at every cost, he will be graciously pleased to bestow upon our rulers, the President of the United States, and all in authority with him, a wise and understanding heart, that he will protect and strengthen our armies, and that he will at length bestow upon our nation that union and peace which shall be founded in righteousness, enduring forever.

3.10) NEW-SCHOOL GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, MAY, 1861.

Whereas a portion of the people of the United States of America have risen up against the rightful authority of the Government, have instituted what they call the "Confederate States of America," in the name and defence of which they have made war against the United States, have seized the property of the Federal Government, have assailed and overpowered its troops in the discharge of their duty, and are now in armed rebellion against it, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the United States of America cannot forbear to express their amazement at the wickedness of such proceedings, and at the bold advocacy and defence thereof, not only in those States in which ordinances of "secession" have been passed, but in several others; and

Whereas the General Assembly, in the language of the Synod of New York and Philadelphia on the occasion of the Revolutionary War, - "being met at a time when public affairs wear so threatening an aspect, and when (unless God in his sovereign providence speedily prevent it) all the horrors of civil war are to be apprehended, are of opinion that they cannot discharge their duty to the numerous congregations under their care without addressing them at this important crisis; and as a firm belief and habitual recollection of the power and presence of the living God ought at all times to possess the minds of real Christians, so in seasons of public calamity, when the Lord is known by the judgments which he executeth, it would be an ignorance or indifference highly criminal not to look up to him with reverence, to implore his mercy by humble and fervent prayer, and, if possible, to prevent his vengeance by unfeigned repentance:" - therefore,

1. Resolved, That, inasmuch as the Presbyterian Church, in her past history, has frequently lifted up her voice against oppression, has shown herself a champion of constitutional liberty, as against both despotism and anarchy, throughout the civilized world, we should be recreant to our high trust were we to withhold our earnest protest against all such unlawful and treasonable acts.

2. Resolved, That this Assembly and the churches which it represents cherish an undiminished attachment to the great principles of civil and religious freedom on which our national Government is based, under the influence of which our fathers prayed and fought and bled, which issued in the establishment of our independence, and by the preservation of which we believe that the common interests of evangelical religion and civil liberty will be most effectively sustained.

3. Resolved, That inasmuch as we believe, according to our Form of Government, that "God, the Supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates to be under him over the people for his own glory and the public good, and to this end hath armed them with the power of the sword for the defence and encouragement of them that are good, and for the punishment of evil-doers," there is, in the judgment of the Assembly, no blood or treasure too precious to be devoted to the defence and perpetuity of the Government in all its constitutional authority.

4. Resolved, That all those who are endeavoring to uphold the Constitution and maintain the Government of these United States in the exercise of its lawful prerogatives are entitled to the sympathy and support of all Christian and law-abiding citizens.

5. Resolved, That it be recommended to all our pastors and churches to be instant and fervent in prayer for the President of the United States and all in authority under him, that wisdom and strength may be given them in the discharge of their arduous duties; for the Congress of the United States; for the lieutenant-general commanding the army in chief, and all our soldiers, that God may shield them from danger in the hour of peril, and, by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the army and navy, renew and sanctify them, so that, whether living or dying, they may be the servants of the Most High.

6. Resolved, That in the countenance which many ministers of the gospel and other professing Christians are now giving to treason and rebellion against the Government, we have great occasion to mourn for the injury thus done to the kingdom of the Redeemer; and that, though we have nothing to add to our former significant and explicit testimonies on the subject of slavery, we yet recommend our people to pray more fervently than ever for the removal of this evil, and all others, both social and political, which lie at the foundation of our present national difficulties .

7. Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions, signed by the officers of the General Assembly, be forwarded to his Excellency Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States.

3.11) OLD-SCHOOL GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, MAY, 1861.

Gratefully acknowledging the distinguished bounty and care of Almighty God towards this favored land, and also recognizing our obligation to submit to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, this General Assembly adopt the following resolutions: -

1. Resolved, That, in view of the present unhappy and agitated condition of this country, the first day of July next be set apart as a day of prayer throughout our bounds, and that on this day ministers and people are called on humbly to confess and bewail our national sins, to offer our thanks to the Father of Lights for his abundant and undeserved goodness towards us as a nation, to seek his guidance and blessings upon our rulers and their councils, as well as on the Congress of the United States about to assemble, and to implore him, in the name of Jesus Christ, the Great High-Priest of the Christian profession, to turn away his anger from us and speedily restore us the blessings of an honorable peace.

2. Resolved, That this General Assembly, in the spirit of that Christian patriotism which the Scriptures enjoin, and which has always characterized this Church, do hereby acknowledge and declare our obligation to promote and perpetuate, so far as in us lies, the integrity of these United States, and to strengthen, uphold, and encourage the Federal Government in the exercise of all its functions under our noble Constitution; and to this Constitution, in all its provisions, requirements, and principles, we profess our unabated loyalty. And, to avoid all misconception, the Assembly declare that by the terms "Federal Government," as here used, is not meant any particular administration, or the peculiar opinions of any political party, but that central administration which, being at any time appointed and inaugurated according to the forms prescribed in the Constitution of the United States, is the visible representative of our national existence.

3.12) GENERAL CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONNECTICUT, JULY, 1861.

Whereas the beneficent Government of these United States, the noble heritage which God gave to the toils, sacrifices, and prayers of our fathers, is put in jeopardy by an organized rebellion, - a rebellion instigated mainly and deliberately to secure the extension and permanence of slavery, we, as ministers of God's word, in General Association convened, hereby record the sentiments we entertain in relation to this contest, and adopt the following resolutions: -

Resolved, That we gratefully acknowledge the Divine goodness in uniting so generally the people of the free States for the suppression of this treason and the defence of the Federal Union.

Resolved, That the right of violent revolution can only exist in a case in which a Government, through neglect to fulfil its proper functions, or otherwise, becomes intolerably oppressive, and in which no possibility remains of reform by regular and peaceful methods, the Divine word requiring in all other cases obedience to human government as the ordinance of God.

Resolved, That it is the duty of all citizens, especially all ministers of the gospel and Christian people, to sustain at any and every sacrifice the Federal Government in suppressing this wicked rebellion; to repress, in the conduct of the war, all unhallowed passions and whatever is contrary to the will of God, and to exert all their influence against efforts, should any be made, to secure a peace by unreasonable concessions in the interest of slavery.

Resolved, That, regarding, as we do, the system of slavery in this country as mainly the cause of this treasonable war against the Federal Government, we wait reverently on the providence of God, in the earnest hope and prayer that he will so overrule this conflict and direct its issues that it may result sooner or later, and as soon as may be, in the peaceful and complete removal of this iniquitous and shameful system of oppression.

The Synod of New York and New Jersey (Old School) passed, unanimously, the following paper on the country, at their annual session in Newark, N.J., November, 1861: -

Whereas the people of these United States, after the achievement of their independence, established a government based on constitutional liberty, giving to all just and equal rights; and

Whereas a portion of the people of these United States have taken up arms against the lawful Government and seized upon its property, and are endeavoring to overthrow it, - a Government in which are centred our dearest hopes and interests pertaining to civil liberty and the advancement of civilization throughout the world; and

Whereas the Presbyterian Church in the United States has ever shown herself, in all her history, the advocate of civil liberty and freedom, that freedom the defence of which drove our fathers from the Old World, and for the security of which, in this land, they prayed and fought and bled, ever lifting their voice and hands against anarchy and tyranny and oppression in every form, and believing that the present solemn crisis in our national affairs calls upon us, as patriots and Christians, to lay upon the altar of our country our influence, our property, and our lives: therefore,

Resolved, That we pledge to the Government our individual support and confidence, and will use all lawful means and efforts in our power to aid it in maintaining its authority and in putting down this rebellion, in its very nature so utterly causeless and unjust.

Resolved, That we commend the President of the United States, his constitutional advisers, the American Congress, the commander-in-chief and soldiers of the army and navy, to the God of our fathers, humbly praying that he will impart to them wisdom and unity in councils and fidelity and courage in action, that the cause intrusted to their hands may be brought to a speedy and successful issue.

Resolved, That, while we do not feel called upon to add any thing to the repeated testimonials of our Church on the subject of slavery, nor to offer any advice to the Government on the subject, still, fully believing that it lies at the foundation of all our present national troubles, we recommend to all our people to pray more earnestly than ever for its removal, and that the time may speedily come when God, by his providence, shall in his own good time and way bring it to an end, that nothing may be left of it but the painful record of its past existence.

Resolved, That we recommend to all our people to humble themselves, and take a low place before God, in view of all our social and political sins, and each one remember and lament his own personal complicity with them all.

3.13) REPLY OF SECRETARY SEWARD.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, November 27, 1861.

To the Synod of New York and New Jersey.

REVEREND GENTLEMEN: The minute containing your resolutions on the condition of the country, which you directed to be sent to me, has been submitted to the President of the United States.

I am instructed to express to you his great satisfaction with those proceedings, which are distinguished equally by their patriotic sentiments and a purely Christian spirit. It is a just tribute to our system of government that it has enabled the American people to enjoy unmolested more of the blessings of Divine Providence, which affect the material conditions of human society, than any other people ever enjoyed, together with a more absolute degree of religious liberty than, before the institution of that great Government, had ever been hoped for among men. The overthrow of the Government, therefore, might justly be regarded as a calamity not only to this nation, but a misfortune to mankind. The President is assured of the public virtue and the public valor. But these are unavailing without the favor of God. The President thanks you for the invocation of that indispensable support, and he earnestly solicits the same invocations from all classes and conditions of men. Believing that these prayers will not be denied by the God of our fathers, he trusts and expects that the result of this most unhappy attempt at revolution will confirm and strengthen the Union of the republic, and ultimately secure the fraternal affections among its members, so essential to a restoration of the public welfare and happiness.

I am, very sincerely, your very humble servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

3.14) THE CINCINNATI CONFERENCE OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, AUGUST, 1861.

State of the Country.

The committee, through J. T. Mitchell, made a report, closing with the following resolutions, - all adopted by a rising vote: -

1. That civil government is of God, and the obligation to obey just human laws refers directly to Divine authority and sanction, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures.

2. That the Constitution of the United States, and the laws of Congress in conformity therewith, are the supreme law of this whole land, binding on the inhabitants of every State and Territory.

3. That armed resistance to this law is a most wicked and unwarrantable rebellion; and that it is the sacred duty of those charged with the administration of our national Government to put down this rebellion by every proper means required to that end.

4. That it is the religious duty of every citizen to lend all practicable support to the national Government, in the maintenance of its authority over the whole land.

5. That the Union of the States is as pressing a necessity now as when it was originally formed by our fathers, and it is our bounden duty to sympathize and co-operate with the thousands of loyal Union men in the South, claiming their rights under the Constitution, and anxiously awaiting the opportunity successfully to assert them.

6. That we can but look on the calamities which so grievously afflict our country as the chastening of God for our national sins, by which he is teaching us our duty by terrible things in righteousness, and that it becomes us all to humble ourselves under his hand, to confess and forsake our personal and national offences, and to implore the Divine mercy in their forgiveness, that the work of righteousness may be peace.

7. That we recommend to all our teachers and people the sincere and devout observance of the National Fast appointed by the President of the United States for the 26th of the present month, and that public religious services be held in all our churches in town and country.

8. That we regard with deep interest the provision made by the Government for the religious instruction and comfort of our citizen soldiery, by the appointment of a chaplain to each regiment; and that we assure our brethren of other Churches who are appointed to that responsible and difficult position, of our heartfelt sympathy and of our earnest prayers for the success of their labors.

9. That we hail with unmingled satisfaction and gratitude to God the General Order of Major-General McClellan, commanding the Department of the Potomac, on the proper observance of the holy Sabbath by the army of the United States under his command, and assure him that this order has thrilled the hearts of Christians throughout the land, and especially of those who have husbands, sons, and brothers in the field of conflict.

3.15) SOUTHEASTERN INDIANA CONFERENCE, SEPTEMBER, 1862.

The Committee on the State of the Country submitted the following, which was adopted with a unanimous rising vote, and ordered to be published in the "Western Christian Advocate:" -

Your committee see no reason in the acts of the administration to warrant the rebellion that now destroys the peace of the country ; that it is the work of ambitious, bloody, and deceitful men, and if it should prove successful must utterly destroy the safeguards the fathers have so wisely thrown around the liberties of the people. We can see in the future no guarantee for the rights of conscience and free speech, save in the suppression of the rebellion, and the holding of its leaders to the penalty provided by the law of the land.

As the ministers of Christ, we deplore the existence of war. It is an evil always demoralizing ; and yet we feel, terrible as war may be, it is not so blasting in its effects as anarchy. Therefore,

Resolved, That we do most heartily espouse the cause of the Constitution and the laws, and pledge our prayers, together with all the moral influence we may be able to exert, to the maintenance of the Government.

Resolved, That we find nothing in the acts of the administration of the Government to call for a change in the twenty-third Article of Religion, as found in our Book of Discipline, and that we esteem it as a violation of the law of God for the ministers or members of our Church to give aid and comfort to the rebellion.

Resolved, That we have read with pleasure the proclamation of the President setting apart a day of humiliation, fasting, and prayer to Almighty God for the success of our arms and the restoration of peace to the nation, and that we recommend to all our people a strict observance of the day.

Resolved, That we have read with pleasure and heartily approve of the order of Major-General McClellan in reference to the observance of the Christian Sabbath in the army.

JAMES HAVENS, Chairman.

J. B. LATHROP, Secretary.

3.16) NORTHWESTERN INDIANA CONFERENCE, SEPTEMBER, 1861.

Whereas a formidable rebellion against the Constitution and authority of the United States has been inaugurated by ambitious and intriguing men, whose course of procedure furnishes the clearest evidence that they are the enemies of this Government, thereby menacing the very existence of the nation, desolating the country, and deluging it with fraternal blood, threatening the safety of our homes and the lives of our families;

And whereas the Twenty-Third Article of Religion, in the Discipline of the Methodist Episcopal Church, holds the following language: - "The President, the Congress, the General Assemblies, the Governors, and the Councils of State, as the delegates of the people, are the rulers of the United States of America, according to the division of power made to them by the Constitution of the United States and by the Constitutions of their respective States. And the said States are a sovereign and independent nation, and ought not to be subject to any foreign jurisdiction:" therefore,

Resolved, That we look upon this rebellion as wicked in the highest degree, and without any just excuse; and that it calls for the indignation and united opposition of all good citizens.

Resolved, That we, as ministers of the gospel, ignoring all partisan politics, will not cease to exert our influence in sustaining our Government, in this trying hour, by all proper means within the sphere of our calling.

Resolved, That the administration has our cordial sympathies, and shall have our prayers that its efforts to put down this rebellion and restore constitutional law and order may be successful.

Action has not yet been taken upon those of our number who have gone at our country's call, and there seems to be considerable perplexity connected with this new feature. All are favorably disposed, however; and, while the law of our Discipline will not be transcended, such relation to the Conference will be given these brethren as will doubtless give general satisfaction.

3.17) THE WISCONSIN CONVENTION OF CONGREGATIONAL AND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHES ON THE STATE OF THE COUNTRY, AUGUST, 1861.

In view of the distracted and perilous state of our beloved country, recognizing as we heartily and sorrowfully do the justice of the Divine retribution now descending with terrible power upon the nation; believing that the favor of our righteous God can be secured only through a penitence that shall bear its legitimate fruits in our national life, reformed from its great iniquities; believing, moreover, that our national liberties can be perpetuated only in righteousness, justice, and truth, and that our Union and Constitution, as the bulwarks of universal human freedom and of the sacred rights of humanity through-out the world, ought to be maintained unbroken and inviolable at all hazards :

Resolved, 1. That we approve of the war now waged by this Government for the crushing of rebellion; that, by whatever means God furnishes us, we will maintain the Constitution and the Union; that we favor a decided, prompt, and unwavering policy in conducting the war, and a just and speedy punishment of the chief traitors for their enormous crimes, while we warmly sympathize with all who may be forced away from their allegiance to the Government by tyrannical leaders and merciless mobs, and will welcome them heartily to their active loyalty again.

2. That we regard it as indispensable to the best and most successful prosecution of the contest that the moral principles involved be practically recognized by the people and the Government.

3. That, in our opinion, the institution of African slavery, as it exists in a portion of our national domain, is the real cause of the present rebellion, and of the wicked endeavors of certain States to dissever and destroy this Federal Union; and that, with our eye upon this iniquitous fountain of our present calamities and perils, it becomes this people and Government to inquire diligently, reverently, and anxiously of God, what duties in this terrible exigency we owe to the negro held in unrighteous and cruel bondage in our land, and to ourselves also as the dominant and oppressing race.

4. That, while nations of the Old World are emerging from their tyrannies and ascending exultingly into higher states of civil and religious liberty, we, as a confessedly Christian people, owe it to ourselves, our fathers, to posterity, humanity, and God, to be second to no nation in the sublime service of human freedom.

5. That to us, as a Christian people, the will of God, so far as we can ascertain it, should be the only rule of our action, and the sole guide of our national policy; that politics and religion have an indissoluble connection.

6. That we have observed with unspeakable regret the frequent and needless violations of the Sabbath on the part of military leaders; and that we hail with delight the order for the better observance of this holy day recently issued by Major-General McClellan, commanding the Army of the Potomac.

7. That we will do all in our power to render this national contest a war for justice, liberty, and humanity; that we will give it, wherever we can, the moral and religious aspect which should characterize it.

8. That we desire and are willing to accept no peace based upon a timid compromise with treason and rebellion, but only such a peace as shall rear its firm and substantial structure of national glory and prosperity on the grave of this Confederate rebellion, when the Union and the Constitution shall be re-established forever upon the ashes of dead and buried secession.

9. That we regard this struggle as for our very national existence; and that, God helping us, praying for our brethren in arms, or fighting shoulder to shoulder with them, as our lot may be, we will maintain and defend what we here resolve to the uttermost of ability and life.

10. That all traitors against the Government of the United States - a Government the most beneficent and excellent under the sun - have forfeited their lives by their crimes, and that, therefore, it were mercy to try to save their lives by wresting from their wicked grasp their suicidal weapon of slavery.

11. That we recommend the members of our churches in their various localities throughout Wisconsin to engage actively and zealously in petitioning the Congress of the United States at its next session to enact a law which shall confiscate and endow with freedom all the slaves in the country in the legal ownership of rebels against this nation, and to set at liberty all remaining slaves by compensation to all loyal slave-holders.

3.18) WELCH CONGREGATIONAL CONFERENCE OF NEW YORK, 1861.

In view of the present disturbed state of affairs in our country, when the Union of the States is endangered, the laws disregarded, and the property of the Government pilfered, by men of ambitious and corrupt minds:

Resolved, That we, as ministers and delegates of the New York Welch Association assembled, declare publicly our fullest and most steadfast adherence to the Constitution and the Union.

Resolved, That as citizens and Christians we fully approve and heartily co-operate with the President and his Cabinet in their measures to subdue rebellion in the seceded States and to restore order and peace in our land.

Resolved, That we feel gratified at the bold and uncompromising stand our ministers and churches have taken on the great principles of equity, liberty, and the rights of man; and we earnestly hope and pray that they will continue in their efforts and fidelity until the source of the present calamity be entirely removed.

Resolved, That we hope and pray that God, in his wise and beneficent providence, may overrule the present disturbances in our country to hasten the overthrow of slavery, which disgraces our land and threatens the existence of our Government.

3.19) MIAMI CONFERENCE OF THE CHRISTIAN DENOMINATION OF OHIO, 1861.

Whereas our nation is now in the midst of one of the worst rebellions ever known in the history of the world, led on by reckless thirst for political power, and animated by a spirit drawn from a system of oppression and slavery "the vilest which the sun ever saw," bringing upon us all the calamities and horrors of civil war, threatening the overthrow of the Government whose institutions, under the blessing of God, have secured to us the privileges of civil and religious liberty and given us a career of prosperity unparalleled in the history of nations, and whereas the issues of this war involve also the issues of human and political liberty among the nations: therefore,

Resolved, That it is the duty of all loyal citizens, as Christian patriots, friends of human liberty, and brothers of the human family, to maintain and defend this Government, their institutions and liberties, by such means and measures as are necessary to disperse the traitors who threaten them.

Resolved, That while we receive the gospel we profess as the gospel of peace, forbidding us to take up arms in offensive operations, we believe that now, when war is waged upon us, when our forts, arsenals, mints, and other public property have been recklessly and violently taken by the plundering hand of treason, and immense hordes of armed traitors are threatening the destruction of our national capital and peaceful commercial cities, when piracy is systematized, armed, and sent abroad to plunder our commerce upon the high seas, the heaven-implanted instincts of self-preservation, our obligations to God, who has given us in sacred trust the blessings which are thus threatened, our obligations to coming generations to transmit to them the privileges we have received, to the nations of the world to hold up before them undimmed the beacon of liberty, our obligations to God to be true to the trusts he has committed to us, call on us to resist these attacks, even in the direful issues which are now presented.

The American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, the largest missionary association in the world, at their annual session, October, 1861, passed the following: -

Resolved, 1. That we sympathize with our national Government in its struggle with rebellion which threatens its very existence and imperils the success of this Missionary Board; and we fervently implore the God of nations so to overrule the conflict that the rebellion may be crushed, slavery, its prime cause, removed, and that peace, prosperity, and righteousness may be permanently established throughout our whole land.

Resolved, 2. That we not only thus pray for deliverance from our present national distress, but that the nation, having been purified in the furnace of affliction and made meet for the Master's service, shall hereafter render the same devotedness to the cause of Christ and Christian missions which is now put forth for the preservation of our beloved country.

3.20) THE PRESBYTERY OF THE POTOMAC (OLD SCHOOL), 1862.

The following resolutions, presented by the Rev. Dr. Tustin, were unanimously adopted: -

Whereas it is more than intimated in the Sacred Scriptures (see Romans xiii. from 1st to 7th verses inclusive) that all wise and wholesome Governments are the product of the power, wisdom, and goodness of Almighty God, and cannot, except for grossly abusing the trust committed to them, be resisted or overturned without incurring the fearful penalty of the Divine displeasure; and whereas the Government of these United States is eminently the offspring of the abounding grace of God to the people of this highly favored nation: therefore,

Resolved, That, in the opinion of this Presbytery, the causeless uprising of a portion of our countrymen, with the view of overturning the best human Government that the light of heaven ever shone upon, - may God forgive them! - is an exhibition of folly and wickedness which has scarcely a parallel in the history of civilized nations.

Resolved, That we heartily approve the wise and vigorous measures adopted by the President and his constitutional advisers in order to preserve unimpaired, at all hazards, the precious and priceless legacy bequeathed to us by our forefathers, now sleeping in their honored graves.

Resolved, That our heartfelt thanks are due to the brave and patriotic officers and men who compose our army and navy, for their generous and voluntary offering of blood and treasure in order to rescue our beloved country from threatened dismemberment and consequent ruin.

Resolved, That, inasmuch as large and extraordinary expenditures have been necessarily made by the General Government in order to preserve the Federal Union from disintegration and overthrow, we cheerfully consent to bear our just proportion of the pecuniary responsibility incurred for that purpose.

Resolved, That our deepest gratitude is due to the Great Ruler of nations for his gracious assistance vouchsafed during this fearful contest, and especially for the manifestations of his grace and favor in the recent victories which have crowned our arms upon field and flood; and that we will continue to invoke his guidance and protection until peace and all its balmy influences shall again return to our weary and distracted country, and we become what we once were, a united, happy, and prosperous people.

Resolved, unanimously, That the proceedings of this meeting be published in the National "Intelligencer," "Baltimore American," "Presbyterian," "Standard and Expositor."

3.21) EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN SYNOD, MAY, 1862.

The Rev. Prof. L. Sternberg, of Hartwick Seminary, New York, the chairman of the committee, in presenting the resolutions, addressed the President as follows: -

MR. PRESIDENT: - We have the honor, as a committee of the General Synod of the Lutheran Church in the United States, to present to your excellency a copy of the preamble and resolutions in reference to the state of the country adopted by that body at its late session in the city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

We are further charged to assure you that our fervent prayers shall ascend to the God of nations that Divine guidance and support may be vouchsafed to you in the trying and responsible position to which a benignant Providence has called you.

With your permission, the Rev. Dr. Pohlman, of Albany, N.Y., will briefly express to you the sentiments which animated the committee and the Church they represent in view of the present crisis of our national affairs.

The Rev. Dr. Pohlman, of Albany, N.Y., in his speech, alluded to the fact that the late session of the General Synod of the Lutheran Church at Lancaster was the first that had been held since the troubles in our country commenced; that the General Synod represents twenty-six district Synods, scattered over the Middle, Western, and Southern States, from twenty-one of which delegates were in attendance; that from the States in rebellion no delegates were present, except one from Tennessee, who had, in praying for the President, avoided arrest only in consequence of the fact that he conducted Divine service in the German language, the vernacular of many in the Lutheran Church. He further expressed his deep conviction that we were greatly indebted for the degree of success that has crowned the efforts of the Government in quelling the rebellion to the prayers of Christians, and concluded by invoking the Divine benediction to rest on the President and on our beloved country.

Reply of the President.

GENTLEMEN: - I welcome here the representatives of the Evangelical Lutherans of the United States. I accept with gratitude their assurances of the sympathy and support of that enlightened, influential, and loyal class of my fellow-citizens in an important crisis, which involves, in my judgment, not only the civil and religious liberties of our own dear land, but in a large degree the civil and religious liberties of mankind in many countries and through many ages. You well know, gentlemen, and the world knows, how reluctantly I accepted this issue of battle forced upon me, on my advent to this place, by the internal enemies of our country. You all know, the world knows, the forces and the resources the public agents have brought into employment to sustain a Government against which there has been brought not one complaint of real injury committed against society, at home or abroad. You all may recollect that, in taking up the sword thus forced into our hands, this Government appealed to the prayers of the pious and the good, and declared that it placed its whole dependence upon the favor of God. I now humbly and reverently, in your presence, reiterate the acknowledgment of that dependence, not doubting that if it shall please the Divine Being who determines the destinies of nations that this shall remain a united people, they will, humbly seeking the Divine guidance, make their prolonged national existence a source of new benefits to themselves and their successors and to all classes and conditions of mankind.

The Resolutions of the Synod.

Whereas our beloved country, after having long been favored with a degree of political and religious freedom, security, and prosperity unexampled in the history of the world, now finds itself involved in a bloody war to suppress an armed rebellion against its lawfully constituted Government; and

Whereas the word of God, which is the sole rule of our faith and practice, requires loyal subjection to "the powers that be," because they are "ordained of God" to be "a terror to evil-doers and a praise to those who do well," and at the same time declares that they who "resist the power" shall receive to themselves condemnation; and

Whereas we, the representatives of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of the United States, connected with the several Synods assembled in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, recognize it as our duty to give public expression to our convictions of truth on this subject, and in every proper way to co-operate with our fellow-citizens in sustaining the great interests of law and authority, of liberty and righteousness: Be it, therefore,

Resolved, That it is the deliberate judgment of this Synod that the rebellion against the constitutional Government of this land is most wicked in its inception, unjustifiable in its cause, unnatural in its character, inhuman in its prosecution, oppressive in its aims, and destructive in its results to the highest interests of morality and religion.

Resolved, That in the suppression of this rebellion, and in the maintenance of the Constitution and the Union by the sword, we recognize an unavoidable necessity and a sacred duty which the Government owes to the nation and the world; and that, therefore, we call upon our people to lift up holy hands in prayer to the God of battles, without personal wrath against the evil-doers on the one hand, and without doubting the righteousness of our cause on the other, that he would give wisdom to the President and his counsellors, and success to the army and navy, that our beloved land may speedily be delivered from treason and anarchy.

Resolved, That, whilst we regard this unhappy war as a righteous judgment of God visited upon us because of the individual and national sins of which we have been guilty, we nevertheless regard this rebellion as more immediately the natural result of the continuance and spread of domestic slavery in our land, and therefore hail with unmingled joy the proposition of our Chief Magistrate, which has received the sanction of Congress, to extend aid from the General Government to any State in which slavery exists which shall deem fit to initiate a system of constitutional emancipation.

Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with all loyal citizens and Christian patriots in the rebellious portions of our country, and we cordially invite their co-operation in offering united supplications at a throne of grace, that God would restore peace to our distracted country, re-establish fraternal relations between all the States, and make our land, in all time to come, the asylum of the oppressed and the permanent abode of liberty and religion.

Resolved, That our devout thanks are due to Almighty God for the success which has crowned our arms; and whilst we praise and magnify his name for the help and succor he has graciously afforded to our land and naval forces, in enabling them to overcome our enemies, we regard these tokens of his Divine favor as cheering indications of the final triumph of our cause.

3.22) THE EAST BALTIMORE CONFERENCE OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, MARCH, 1862.

Whereas since the annual session of this body a fearful rebellion has broken out in several of the Southern States, threatening to overthrow the best and most benign Government the world ever saw; and

Whereas the Federal authority has been compelled to use force of arms to suppress said rebellion and to maintain its own supremacy; and

Whereas patriotism is a Christian virtue, taught in the word of God and enjoined upon us in our Twenty-Nine Articles of Religion: therefore,

1. Resolved, That, as a body of Christian ministers in Conference assembled, we hereby express our abhorrence of the rebellion now existing within our borders, as being treasonable in its origin, sanguinary in its progress, and as tending to retard the advancement of civil liberty through the world.

2. Resolved, That we hereby approve and endorse the present wise and patriotic administration of the Federal Government in its efforts to defeat the plans and to overcome the armed resistance of the so-called Confederate States, with a view of maintaining the unity and perpetuity of this Government.

3. Resolved, That, in our patriotic efforts in the past or present to sustain the Government of our country in her time of trial, we are not justly liable to the charge of political teaching, and in the inculcation of loyal principles and sentiments we regard the pulpit and the press as legitimate instrumentalities.

These resolutions were signed by Bishop Ames, and a committee appointed to present them to President Lincoln.

The committee proceeded to Washington for the purpose specified, and - accompanied by Senator Wright, of Indiana, Senator Willey, of Virginia, and Representative Leary, of Maryland - were formally presented to President Lincoln, by the Hon. Mr. Leary, in a brief but eloquent address. The address of the committee and the reading of the resolutions followed. During the reading of the document the President listened with much apparent interest, and made the following response: -

GENTLEMEN: I am happy to see you; but, having no previous notice of your coming, I do not feel altogether prepared to reply to the paper and addresses you have presented me in such terms as they merit. Allow me to say, however, that I have the highest regard for the numerous and influential Christian body whom you represent. I am profoundly impressed with the influence you are exerting, as a Church, on the morals of the nation, as also with the loyalty of your people to the Government of the United States. I thank you, gentlemen, for your kind words and loyal expressions, and will, at the earliest moment I can command amid my pressing duties, reply to you in a more formal manner.

The President's Reply.

EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 18, 1862.

REV. J. A. GERE, A. A. REESE, D.D., G. D. CHENOWETH: -

GENTLEMEN: - Allow me to tender to you, and through you to the East Baltimore Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, my grateful thanks for the preamble and resolutions of that body, copies of which you did me the honor to present yesterday. These kind words of approval, coming from so numerous a body of intelligent Christian people, and so free from all suspicion of sinister motives, are indeed encouraging to me. By the help of an all-wise Providence, I shall endeavor to do my duty; and I shall expect the continuance of your prayers for a right solution of our national difficulties, and the restoration of our country to peace and prosperity.

Your obliged and humble servant,

A. LINCOLN.

3.23) BLACK RIVER METHODIST CONFERENCE, NEW YORK, MAY, 1862.

On the State of the Country.

Whereas our beloved nation is distracted and torn by rebellion, and undergoing the peril of civil war, and has, in the order of God, a right to claim our deepest sympathies and most complete support, and even the sacrifice of the comfort, property, and the life of its citizens in its defence; and

Whereas Christianity inspires the truest and most earnest patriotism, and creates and develops those virtues in which it worthily consists, our own loved Church recognizing it in the Twenty-Third Article of Religion in our Book of Discipline, especially enjoining upon us obedience to the rulers of this nation; and

Whereas, while we declare that our patriotism and loyalty are not new virtues with us, and that we do not hold to or manifest them because the strong arm of power obliges us to do so, but that our hearts, our dearest earthly hopes and interests, together with our faith in the superiority of our national organization, impel us ever to pray and labor for our nation's welfare, yet in this time of its peril we feel that, more than ever before, God and humanity, gratitude and imperative duty, move us to exert ourselves to the utmost within our allotted sphere to uphold and support the Government of these United States in its noble and mighty efforts to save and preserve this nation, which is, in our opinion, more than any other nation the people's inheritance: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That, first of all, with profound reverence and chastened gratitude, we would render homage and thanksgiving to Almighty God for the manifestation of his presence, seen in the succession of events transpiring in our land, in which his righteousness has been mingled with mercy, not dealing with us according to our grievous national and social sins, but while chastening yet reforming and purifying us, teaching us impressively that "he reigneth, though clouds and darkness may be round about him," and that the prayers of the righteous are not offered to him in vain; for we recognize in the manifest tendency of these events that he answereth his people's prayers.

2. That we join with the loyal millions of our countrymen in rendering praise to.God for the victories that have attended our arms in the navy and army, realizing, as expressed by our esteemed Secretary of War, that we cannot in ourselves alone organize victory, but that if we prevail our help must come from God, in whose hands is the destiny of nations; while we also remember with gratitude our brave and self-sacrificing citizens who have consecrated themselves upon the altar of our country, which so many of them have baptized with their blood , as did our fathers before them.

3. That we recognize slavery as the cause of the present rebellion and civil war, and are more than ever convinced that either slavery or the nation must perish; and therefore we hail with joy the recent emancipation of the slaves in the District of Columbia by Congress.

4. That we believe it to be the duty of all good men to sustain our national administration by prayer to God for its guidance and support, by their influence, and, if necessary, by their arms, recognizing, as we do, the very great responsibilities of our Chief Magistrate, and we confide in his integrity and his ability.

5. That we sympathize with our soldiers in their toil and peril, and especially with the sick and wounded and those in the enemy's prisons, and also with the thousands of widows and orphans, fathers and mothers, who are bereft of their loved ones, sacrificed in their country's service, and that, so far as in us lies, we do offer, and will by God's grace carry, the consolations of our blessed Christianity to assuage the griefs and bless the hearts of those afflicted ones.

6. That we would urge upon all good citizens, what events so impressively teach us, the imperative obligation that rests upon every Christian to participate in the election of our law-makers and rulers, especially to attend primary elections or caucuses, remembering that in this nation, where the people rule, God will hold every citizen responsible for civil privileges and duties, and that no man will be held excusable if he neglects to do all he can to elect good men to the places of trust and responsibility in the Government; and we would also remind Christian men that the cause of Jesus Christ is so involved in this as to demand that they should be untiring in vigilance and invincible in their purpose and action to control the very origin and source of civil power in this land.

7. That we renewedly pledge ourselves to our nation's welfare and perpetuity; and may our right hand forget her cunning, and our tongue cleave to the roof of our mouth, if we forget or cease to pray for her.

The New-School General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, May, 1862, adopted the following paper, prepared by Rev. Dr. N. S. Beman.

The State of the Country.

Whereas this General Assembly is called, in the providence of God, to hold its deliberations at a time when a wicked and fearful rebellion threatens to destroy the fair fabric of our Government, to lay waste our beloved country, and to blight and ruin, so far as the present life is concerned, all that is dear to us as Christians; and

Whereas, as a branch of the Christian Church, Presbyterians have ever been found loyal and the friends of good order, believing, as they do, that civil government is ordained of God, that the magistrate is the minister of God for good, that he beareth not the sword in vain, and they are, therefore, subject to this ordinance of God, "not only for wrath," or under the influence of fear, "but also for conscience' sake," or under the influence of moral and Christian principle; and

Whereas the particular Church whose representatives we are, and in whose behalf we are now and here called to act, have inscribed on our banner "THE CONSTITUTIONAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH," having never favored secession or nullification, either in Church or State, deem it quite becoming and proper in us to express ourselves with great Christian sincerity and frankness on those matters which now agitate our country? therefore,

Resolved, 1. That we deem the Government of these United States the most benign that has ever blessed our imperfect world; and should it be destroyed, after its brief career of good, another such, in the ordinary course of human events, can hardly be anticipated for a long time to come; and, for these reasons, we revere and love it as one of the great sources of hope, under God, for a lost world, and it is doubly dear to our hearts because it was procured and established by the toil, sacrifice, and blood of our fathers.

Resolved, 2. That rebellion against such a Government as ours, and especially by those who have ever enjoyed their full share of its protection, honors, rich blessings of every name, can have no excuse or palliation, and can be inspired by no other motives than those of ambition and avarice, and can find no parallel except in the first two great rebellions, that which assailed the throne of heaven directly, and that which peopled our world with miserable apostates.

Resolved, 3. That whatever diversity of sentiment may exist among us respecting international wars, or the appeal to the sword for the settlement of points of honor or interest between independent nations, we are all of one mind on the subject of rebellion, and especially against the best Government which God has yet given to the world; that our vast army now in the field is to be looked upon as a great police force, organized to carry into effect the Constitution and laws, which insurgents, in common with other citizens, have ordained by their own voluntary acts, and which they are bound by honor and oath and conscience to respect and obey, so that the strictest advocates of peace may bear a part in this deadly struggle for the life of the Government.

Resolved, 4. That while we have been utterly shocked at the deep depravity of the men who have framed and matured this rebellion, and who are now clad in arms, manifested in words and deeds, there is another class found in the loyal States who have excited a still deeper loathing, some in Congress, some in high civil life, and some in the ordinary walks of business, who never utter a manly thought or opinion in favor of the Government but they follow it, by way of comment, by two or three smooth apologies for Southern insurrectionists, presenting the difference between an open and avowed enemy in the field and a secret and insidious foe in the bosom of our own family.

Resolved, 5. That, in our opinion, this whole insurrectionary movement can be traced to one primordial root, and one only, - African slavery, the love of it, and a determination to make it perpetual; and while we look upon this war as having one grand end in view, the restoration of the Union, by crushing out the last living and manifested fibre of rebellion, we hold that every thing - the institution of slavery, if need be - must be made to bend to this great purpose; and while, under the influence of humanity and Christian benevolence, we may commiserate the condition of the ruined rebels, once in fraternity with ourselves, but now, should the case occur, despoiled of all that makes the world dear to them, we must be, at the same time, constrained to feel that the retribution has been self-inflicted, and must add, Fiat justitia, ruat cælum.

Resolved, 6. That we have great confidence in Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, and his Cabinet, and in the commanders of our armies and our navy, and the valiant men of this republic, prosecuting a holy warfare under their banners; and we bless God that he has stood by them and cheered them on in what we trust will ever stand as the darkest days of our country's humiliation, and crowned them with many signal victories. Knowing that ultimate success is with God alone, we will ever pray that the last sad note of anarchy and misrule may soon die away, and the old flag of our country, radiant with stripes and brilliant with stars, may again wave over a great, undivided, and happy people.

Resolved, 7. That we here, in deep humility for our sins and the sins of the nation, and in heartfelt devotion, lay ourselves, with all we are and have, on the altar of God and our country; and we hesitate not to pledge the churches and Christian people under our care as ready to join with us in the same fervent sympathies and united prayers that our rulers in the Cabinet, and our commanders in the field and on the waters, and the brave men under their leadership, may take courage, under the assurance that the Presbyterian Church of the United States are with them, in heart and hand, in life and effort, in this fearful existing conflict.

Resolved, finally, That a copy of these resolutions, signed by the officers of the General Assembly, be forwarded to his Excellency Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, accompanied by the following respectful letter: -

To the President of the United States.

The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, holding its annual session in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio, in transmitting the following resolutions, beg leave most respectfully to express in a more personal manner the sentiments of our Church in reference to yourself and the great issues with which you are called to deal. It is with no desire to bring a tribute of flattery when we assure you, honored sir, of the affection and confidence of our Church. Since the day of your inauguration, the thousands of our membership have followed you with unceasing prayer, beseeching the throne of Heaven on your behalf. In our great church courts, in our lesser judicatures, in our weekly assemblages in the house of God, at our family altars, in the inner place of prayer, you have been the burden of our petitions; and when we look at the history of your administration hitherto, and at the wonderful way in which this people have been led under your guidance, we glorify God on account of you. We give praise not to man, but to God. In your firmness, your integrity, challenging the admiration of even your enemies, your moderation, your wisdom, the timeliness of your acts exhibited at critical junctures, your paternal words, so eminently fitting the chosen head of a great people, we recognize the hand and power of God. We devoutly and humbly accept it as from Him in answer to the innumerable prayers which have gone up from our hearts. We desire, as a Church, to express to you our reverence, our love, our deep sympathy with you in the greatness of your trust, the depth of your personal bereavements, and to pledge to you, as in all the future, our perpetual remembrance of you before God, and all the support that loyal hearts can offer. We have given our sons to the army and navy; some of our ministers and many of our church-members have died in hospital and field. We are glad that we have given them, and we exult in that they were true to death. We gladly pledge as many more as the cause of our country may demand. We believe that there is but one path before this people: this gigantic and inexpressibly wicked rebellion must be destroyed. The interests of humanity, the cause of God and his Church, demand it at our hands. May God give to you his great support, preserve you, impart to you more than human wisdom, and permit you, ere long, to rejoice in the deliverance of our beloved country in peace and unity. Signed,

GEORGE DUFFIELD, D.D., Moderator.

EDWIN F. HATFIELD, D.D., Stated Clerk.

These resolutions and letter were solemnly adopted by a unanimous vote taken by rising. And, after this expression was taken, the congregation were requested to unite with the Assembly in this vote by also rising. The whole congregation arose, and while standing the Moderator lifted up his hands in devout and thankful prayer for the Divine blessing to accompany the letter. The prayer for the President was hearty and touching.

The President's Response to the General Assembly.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, June 9, 1862.

TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF THE UNITED STATES, HOLDING ITS ANNUAL SESSION IN THE CITY OF CINCINNATI.

REVEREND GENTLEMEN: - I have had the honor of receiving your address to the President of the United States, and the proceedings of your venerable body on the subject of the existing insurrection, by which that address was accompanied.

These papers have been submitted to the President. I am instructed to convey to you his most profound and grateful acknowledgments for the fervent assurances of support and sympathy which they contain. For many years hereafter, one of the greatest subjects of felicitation among good men will be the signal success of the Government of the United States in preserving our Federal Union, which is the ark of civil and religious liberty on this continent and throughout the world. All the events of our generation which preceded this attempt at revolution, and all that shall happen after it, will be deemed unimportant in consideration of that one indispensable and invaluable achievement. The men of our generation whose memory will be the longest and the most honored will be they who thought the most earnestly, prayed the most fervently, hoped the most confidently, fought the most heroically, and suffered the most patiently, in the sacred cause of freedom and humanity. The record of the action of the Presbyterian Church seems to the President worthy of its traditions and its aspirations as an important branch of the Church founded by the Saviour of men.

Commending our yet distracted country to the interposition and guardian care of the Ruler and Judge of nations, the President will persevere steadily and hopefully in the great work committed to his hands, relying upon the virtue and intelligence of the people of the United States and the candor and benevolence of all good men.

I have the honor to be, reverend gentlemen, your very obedient servant.

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

The Old-School General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, May, 1862, adopted the following paper, prepared by Dr. R. J. Breckinridge.

The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, in session at Columbus, in the State of Ohio, considering the unhappy condition of the country,- in the midst of a bloody civil war, and of the Church, - agitated everywhere, divided in sentiment in many places, and openly assailed by schism in a large section of it, considering also the duty which this chief tribunal, met in the name and by the authority of the glorified Saviour of sinners, who is also the Sovereign Ruler of all things, owes to him our Head and Lord, and to his flock committed to our charge, and to the people whom we are commissioned to evangelize, and to the civil authorities who exist by his appointment, - do hereby in this deliverance give utterance to our solemn convictions and our deliberate judgment touching the matters herein set forth, that they may serve for the guidance of all over whom the Lord Christ has given us any office of instruction or any power of government.

1. Peace is among the very highest temporal blessings of the Church, as well as of all mankind; and public order is one of the first necessities of the spiritual as well as the civil commonwealth. Peace has been wickedly superseded by war, in its worst form, throughout the whole land; and public order has been wickedly superseded by rebellion, anarchy, and violence, in the whole Southern portion of the Union. All this has been brought to pass in a disloyal and traitorous attempt to overthrow the national Government by military force, and to divide the nation contrary to the wishes of the immense majority of the people of the nation, and without satisfactory evidence that the majority of the people, in whom the local sovereignty resided, even in the States which revolted, ever authorized any such proceeding, or ever approved the fraud and violence by which this horrible treason has achieved whatever success it has had. This whole treason, rebellion, anarchy, fraud, and violence is utterly contrary to the dictates of natural religion and morality, and is plainly condemned by the revealed will of God. It is the clear and solemn duty of the national Government to preserve, at whatever cost, the national Union and Constitution, to maintain the laws in their supremacy, to crush force by force, and to restore the reign of public order and peace to the entire nation, by whatever lawful means that are necessary thereunto. And it is the bounden duty of the people who compose this great nation, each one in his several place and degree, to uphold the Federal Government, and every State Government, and all persons in authority, whether civil or military, in all their lawful and proper acts, unto the ends hereinbefore set forth.

2. The Church of Christ has no authority from him to make rebellion, or to counsel treason, or to favor anarchy, in any case whatever. On the contrary, every follower of Christ has the personal liberty bestowed on him by Christ to submit, for the sake of Christ, according to his own conscientious sense of duty, to whatever government, however bad, under which his lot may be cast. But, while patient suffering for Christ's sake can never be sinful, treason, rebellion, and anarchy may be sinful, most generally, perhaps, are sinful, and probably are always and necessarily sinful in all free countries, where the power to change the Government by voting, in the place of force, exists as a common right constitutionally secured to the people who are sovereign. If in any case treason, rebellion, and anarchy can possibly be sinful, they are so in the case now desolating large portions of this nation and laying waste great numbers of Christian congregations and fatally obstructing every good word and work in those regions.

To the Christian people scattered throughout those unfortunate regions, who have been left of God to have any hand in bringing on these terrible calamities, we earnestly address words of exhortation and rebuke, as unto brethren who have sinned exceedingly and whom God calls to repentance by fearful judgment. To those in like circumstances who are not chargeable with the sins which have brought such calamities upon the land, but who have chosen, in the exercise of their Christian liberty, to stand in their lot and suffer, we address words of affectionate sympathy, praying God to bring them off conquerors. To those in like circumstances who have taken their lives in their hands and risked all for their country and for conscience' sake, we say we love such with all our heart, and bless God such witnessses were found in the time of thick darkness. We fear, and we record it with great grief, that the Church of God and the Christian people, to a great extent, throughout all the revolted States, have done many things that ought not to have been done, in this time of trial, rebuke, and blasphemy ; but concerning the wide-spread schism which is reported to have occurred in many Southern Synods this Assembly will take no action at this time. It declares, however, its fixed purpose, under all possible circumstances, to labor for the extension and permanent maintenance of the Church under its care in every part of the United States. Schism, so far as it may exist, we hope to see healed. If that cannot be, it will be disregarded.

3. We record our gratitude to God for the prevailing unity of sentiment, and general internal peace, which has characterized the Church in the States that have not revolted, embracing a great majority of the ministers, congregations, and people under our care. It may still be called, with emphasis, a loyal, orthodox, and pious Church; and all its acts and works indicate its right to a title so noble. Let it strive for Divine grace to maintain that good report. In some respects the interests of the Church of God are very different from those of civil institutions. Whatever may befall this or any other nation, the Church of Christ must abide on earth triumphant even over the gates of hell. It is, therefore, of supreme importance that the Church should guard itself from internal alienations and divisions, founded upon questions and interests that are external as to her, and which ought not by their necessary working cause her fate to depend on the fate of things less important and less enduring than herself. Disturbers of the Church ought not to be allowed, especially disturbers of the Church in States that never revolted or that have been cleared of armed rebels, - disturbers who, under many false pretexts, may promote discontent, disloyalty, and general alienation, tending to the unsettling of ministers, to local schisms, and to manifold trouble. Let a spirit of quietness, of mutual forbearance, and of ready obedience to authority, both civil and ecclesiastical, illustrate the loyalty, the orthodoxy, and the piety of the Church. It is more especially to ministers of the gospel, and among them particularly to any whose first impressions had been on any account favorable to the terrible military revolution which has been attempted, and which God's providence has hitherto so signally rebuked, that these decisive considerations ought to be addressed. And, in the name and by the authority of the Lord Jesus, we earnestly exhort all who love God and fear his wrath to turn a deaf ear to all counsels and suggestions that tend towards a reaction favorable to disloyalty, schism, or disturbance, either in the Church or in the country. There is hardly any thing more inexcusable connected with the frightful conspiracy against which we testify than the conduct of those office-bearers and members of the Church who, although citizens of loyal States and subject to the control of loyal Presbyteries and Synods, have been faithless to all authority, human and Divine, to which they owed subjection. Nor should any to whom this deliverance may come fail to bear in mind hat it is not only their outward conduct concerning which they ought to take heed, but it is also, and especially, their heart, their temper, and their motives, in the sight of God, and towards the free and beneficent civil Government which he has blessed us withal, and towards the spiritual commonwealth to which they are subject in the Lord. In all these respects we must all give account to God in the great day. And it is in view of our own dread responsibility to the Judge of quick and lead that we now make this deliverance.

At the Yearly Meeting of the Quakers, May, 1862, they adopted the following address, which originated in the women's meeting, and which has been transmitted to the President of the United States: -

To the President, Senate, and House of Representatives of the United States of America.

At the yearly meeting of Friends, held in Philadelphia for Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland, by adjournment from the twelfth day of the fifth month to the sixteenth of the same, inclusive, Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two,

The following minute was read, united with, directed to be signed by the clerks, and forwarded: -

This meeting has been introduced into a deep concern relative to the present condition of our country. Our minds have been directed to those who preside over our national Government, and gratitude has been felt to the Great Ruler of nations that he has so far moved the hearts of these that they have decreed the District of Columbia free from slavery. We earnestly desire that the Chief Magistrate of the nation and our Congress may, in this season of deep trial, humbly seek Divine guidance, that under this influence they may act for the cause of justice and mercy, in that wisdom which is pure, peaceable, and profitable to direct, and that the effusion of blood may be stayed.

Signed by direction and on behalf of the meeting aforesaid.

MARY S. LIPPINCOTT, Clerk of the Women's Meeting.

WILLIAM GRISCOM, Clerk of the Men's Meeting.

3.24) UNITED PRESBYTERIAN ASSEMBLY, MAY, 1862.

The Committee recommend the appointment of the last Thursday of November as a day of thanksgiving, for the following reasons :-the enjoyment of gospel ordinances, our civil and religious liberty, the supply of provisions so unusually cheap and abundant, that God has stirred up the people to give themselves and their substance for the defence of the country, and the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia.

Resolutions on the State of the Country.

The following resolutions on the state of the country were presented by the Committee: -

Whereas our country suffers under a desolating civil war, and calamities not often equalled in the history of the world are now endured by our fellow-citizens; and whereas the ministers of the gospel, as witnesses for Christ and watchmen on the walls of Zion, are bound by their testimony to give the trumpet a certain and distinct sound in order to warn the people of their danger and direct them in the way of duty. Therefore,

Resolved, That we recognize in the defeats and disasters of our forces in the beginning of the conflict a deserved visitation of God's wrath upon us for our complicity in the sin of slavery, and while we have reason to fear further reverses to our arms, yet we feel and hereby ex- press our gratitude to God for the recent victories and advantages obtained over the enemy, and cherish the hope and belief that God will continue his favor till rebellion shall be forever crushed and peace restored.

Resolved, That, believing that so long as slavery lives no permanent peace can be enjoyed, we express our highest gratification at the emancipation policy indicated in the President's recent proposition to aid the slave States in the "abolishment" of slavery. We thank God for the deliverance of the District of Columbia from the national curse and disgrace of slavery, and would hail with pleasure the proclamation of universal liberty; and we trust that our President and Congress will pursue the course of emancipation till liberty shall be proclaimed throughout all the land to all the inhabitants thereof.

Resolved, That, believing compromise with wrong to be the rock on which our Union has been in danger of splitting, we warn our fellow-citizens, politicians, and statesmen that a compromise with rebellion in behalf of slavery will be no less dangerous to the stability of our Government than to the cause of human freedom.

Resolved, That, believing it to be a duty specially incumbent on the Church to let her light shine, and that her ministry are particularly bound in the present perilous crisis of our country's history to declare the counsel of God regarding the sin and crime of slavery, we trust that all the preachers of that gospel which proclaims liberty to the captive of every denomination will hear and obey God's voice, now calling upon them louder than ever before to open their mouth in behalf of the dumb. And we would especially urge upon our brethren under our care to give a clear testimony on this subject in order to instruct our people and the nation in the great truth that righteousness exalteth a nation, whilst sin is a reproach to any people.

Resolved, That, as we can only succeed by depending entirely on Divine agency, we will call upon the Lord in our trouble, and ask him to so overrule the present war, inaugurated for the purpose of extending and perpetuating slavery, that it shall issue in its final and complete overthrow; and that we will bear on our spirits continually, at a throne of grace, our President, his counsellors, the Congress, the army and navy, and pray especially that God would preserve those who have enlisted in the cause of their country from the perils of the camp and the field, and restore them to their families and friends in peace and safety, and prepare those who may have to die in the conflict for a victory over death and hell, and a triumphant entrance into heaven.

Adopted unanimously.

3.25) TESTIMONY OF THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF CONNECTICUT CONCERNING THE DUTY OF CHRISTIAN CITIZENS AT THE PRESENT CRISIS.

The General Association of Connecticut, being convened at Norwalk on the third Tuesday in June, A.D. 1862, when the loyal people of the United States are in the agony and crisis of a war for the Union and the Constitution and for the great principle of popular self-government, is called to put upon record and to publish to its constituency, the associated Congregational pastors and ministers in this Commonwealth, and to the churches, its testimony concerning the duty of all Christian citizens at such a time as this.

I. We rejoice that we have no need to inculcate on our brethren in the ministry, nor on our churches, the duty of sustaining our national Government in this conflict, by unceasing prayer to God in public and in private, by a cheerful submission to the burdens and sorrows inseparable from so great a war, and by voluntary contributions and sacrifices for the comfort, the encouragement, and the moral and religious welfare of our brethren and our sons who are in arms, as well as for the relief of those who are suffering with wounds received in battle, or with sickness induced by the hardships and exposures incident to military service. Yet it is not superfluous to insist distinctly on the duty of a large and generous confidence in the men whom God's providence has called to the administration of our Government at this time. When we bless God that the President of the United States has shown himself from the beginning of his administration to this time eminently sagacious and prudent as well as honest and patriotic, we express the deep conviction and feeling of thousands of our fellow-citizens whose voices were not given to make him President. If there be any thing in the proceedings or the policy of our Government which, seen from our point of view, seems doubtful, let it be remembered that, in the present peril, the first duty of every citizen is confidence in the constituted leadership till confidence shall be impossible.

II. While we acknowledge the justice of God in the present visitation of his displeasure against the many sins of this most favored nation, we record our conviction that the cause of this rebellion against popular self-government is nothing else than the institution of slavery, maintained in defiance of the first principles of natural justice, as well as of Christianity, and that no durable peace can be expected with the slave-holding States till that institution, so odious in the sight of God and so long the abhorrence of the civilized world, shall have ceased to be formidable as a power, and shall have received its death-wound. Nothing else than such an institution, reducing millions of human beings to the condition of merchandise, taking away from them by law the key of knowledge and thus forbidding them to read the Bible, robbing them of all domestic rights and sanctities, and relentlessly maintaining an infamous traffic in human beings for whom Christ died, could have bred in such a land as this a population so ignorant, so barbarous, so morally and socially degraded, though nominally free, as that which wicked conspirators, the leaders of the rebellion, have used at their pleasure in this infamous and ever-memorable war against the most beneficent Government which God has ever given to any people.

During all the progress of that great apostasy from the first principles of Christian morality which has characterized the history of Christianity in the slaveholding States for the last thirty years, the General Association of Connecticut, while studiously refusing to hold forth any other doctrine concerning the relations and mutual duties of masters and servants than that which was held forth by the apostles, has never ceased to testify "that to buy and sell human beings, and to hold them and treat them as merchandise, or to treat servants, bond or free, in any manner inconsistent with the fact that they are intelligent and voluntary beings, made in the image of God, is a violation of the word of God, and should be treated by all the churches as an immorality inconsistent with a profession of the Christian religion." It has never ceased to declare that it "regards the laws and usages in respect to slavery which exist in many of the States of this Union, as inconsistent with the character and responsibilities of a free and Christian people;" nor to proclaim "the duty of every Christian, and especially of every minister of the gospel, to use all prudent and lawful efforts for the peaceful abolition of slavery." We have no occasion now to give any other testimony on that point than what we have always given.

III. As we look forward in hope to the conclusion of this war, we anticipate the restoration of the Constitution of the United States, and of the acts of Congress and treaties made in conformity therewith, as the supreme law of the land, in every one of the now revolted States. For the abolition of slavery in those States, we look not to the action of the Federal Government exercising any power inconsistent with the Constitution, but rather to the all-wise and almighty providence of God compelling those States to accept and to incorporate into their own laws those principles of natural justice which are liberty to every man unjustly held in bondage. We demand of our enemies that they shall accept, and we trust in God that when he has sufficiently humbled them by his power and scourged them in his justice he will give them the heart to accept with gladness, the priceless boon of freedom for all. Then shall the word of God be no longer bound, but have free course and be glorified, and our whole land shall be adorned with the beauty and the riches of a truly Christian civilization.

Meanwhile, we charge ourselves and we exhort our brethren of the ministry and in the churches to be instant in prayer and ready for all efforts and sacrifices.

3.26) THE CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF RHODE ISLAND, JUNE, 1862.

Whereas the great conspiracy against our national Government, which, before the last annual meeting of this body, had ripened into open rebellion and revolt, though greatly crippled and weakened, remains yet unsubdued; and

Whereas, in the progress of the strife resulting therefrom, God in his providence has graciously smiled upon us, preserving our Chief Magistrate from the hands of bloody men who lay in wait for his life, our national capital from sacrilegious hands, our civil polity from being subverted, strengthening our hands to war and our fingers to fight, while he weakened our enemies in many an hour of decision; and

Whereas he has also touched the hearts of our civil rulers as with the finger of his love, moving them to undo the heavy burdens and break every yoke from the necks of those who could be directly reached by the arm of their authority, and also to propose a generous help in breaking others which they cannot directly reach: therefore,

Resolved, That this Consociation here makes devout acknowledgment to Almighty God for his mercies in these regards, and here also lifts up its voice in supplications that he will still be favorable unto us, that he will give wisdom and virtue to our civil rulers, that he will lead our armies to victory, that he will animate the hearts of all military governors and generals with the true spirit of liberty and humanity, so that the great power which they wield shall be so used as to secure his favor and the advancement of this whole people in knowledge and virtue, thus securing to us a righteous peace, purify our civil institutions from every stain of oppression, and enable us to transmit them with blessings and benedictions to the generations following.

3.27) THE IOWA STATE CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION, JUNE, 1862.

State of the Country.

Resolved, The history of our country since the outbreak of the present rebellion has furnished occasion for unceasing and most devout gratitude and praise to God, inasmuch as our defeats and disasters have, through his gracious overruling, contributed to the ultimate success of the national cause scarcely less than the many glorious victories which have been achieved.

Resolved, The wisdom, impartiality, tenacity of purpose, endurance, philanthropy, honesty, and honor exhibited by our Chief Magistrate in the administration of the Government, command our respect, confidence, admiration, and love, as for a man of extraordinary fitness for his high office in these times of unparalleled trial.

Resolved, We have observed with profound satisfaction the high ground taken by Messrs. Grimes and Harlan of the United States Senate, and Wilson of the House, from the State of Iowa, on the various questions of national concern which have recently been under consideration in the Federal legislature, and we rejoice in the great ability, the undoubted patriotism, the sturdy independence, and humane policy which have distinguished the course of these gentlemen in the discharge of their grave Congressional duties.

Resolved, While we rejoice in the great progress of anti-slavery sentiment throughout the loyal States, we deeply deplore before God the powerful pro-slavery sympathies and tendencies which are still manifest among the people, and regard it as the duty of all Christians to continue in labor and prayer for the deliverance of all the oppressed and for the proclamation of liberty throughout the land to all the inhabitants thereof.

3.28) GENERAL CONVENTION OF CONGREGATIONAL MINISTERS AND CHURCHES IN VERMONT, JUNE, 1862.

Whereas our country is now suffering under the dire calamities of civil war, as the result of a wicked rebellion; and whereas the Church of Christ in her membership is bound to bear witness to the truth, and against all wrong: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That we regard the war now being carried on by the Government to put down this unrighteous rebellion as an unavoidable necessity, sanctioned alike by all right-minded, patriotic men, and the principles of the word of God.

Resolved, 2. That we believe that, though other things may have had their measure of influence, yet that the hitherto cherished institution of slavery has been the principal and exciting cause and origin of this attempt to destroy the Constitution and break down the Government.

Resolved, 3. That we gratefully approve of the course the Government has taken in freeing itself from all complicity with slavery, that we sincerely hope that this institution may be done away, in the providence of God, speedily and effectively, and that we desire the President and Congress to use all their constitutional powers, in the present crisis, for its removal.

Resolved, 4. That we tender to the President of the United States, and his associates in the Government, our hearty confidence and support, and to the army and navy our sincere sympathy, with the assurance of our prayers that the same power which has been so visibly displayed in the past may guide to the complete re-establishment of the Union on the principles of justice and republican freedom.

Report was adopted, and ordered that a copy, signed by the Moderator and Scribe, be sent to the Secretary of State of the United States, to be laid before the President.

The Answer of the President through the Secretary of State.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, July 11, 1862.

To Rev. CLARK E. FERRIN, Moderator, &c.

SIR: - I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of your note of the 23d of June, accompanied by a copy of resolutions which were unanimously adopted by the General Convention of Congregational ministers and churches recently assembled at Norwich.

In compliance with your request, these resolutions have been submitted to the President of the United States.

I am instructed to express his cordial thanks for the assurances of confidence and support thus tendered to him by a body so deservedly respected and so widely influential as the Congregational Church of Vermont.

The President is deeply impressed by the fervent and hopeful patriotism and benevolence which pervade the resolutions. It is the Union and the Constitution of this country which are at stake in the present unhappy strife; but that Union is not a mere stringent political band, nor is that Constitution a lifeless or spiritless political body. The Union is a guarantee of perpetual peace and prosperity to the American people, and the Constitution is the ark of civil and religious liberty for all classes and conditions of men.

Who that carefully reads the history of the nations for the period that this republic has existed under this Constitution and this Union can fail to see and appreciate the influence it has exerted in ameliorating the condition of mankind? Who that justly appreciates that influence will undertake to foretell the misfortunes and despondency which must occur on every continent should this republic desist all at once from its auspicious career and be resolved into a confused medley of small, discordant, and contentious States? The duty of the Christian coincides with that of the patriot, and the duty of the priest with that of the soldier, in averting so sad and fearful a consummation.

Be pleased, sir, to express these sentiments of the President to the reverend gentlemen in whose behalf you have addressed me, together with assurances of profound respect with which I have the honor to be their humble servant.

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

3.29) THE OHIO CONFERENCE OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Whereas the war now raging in our beloved country thickens with apparent disaster, which we cannot but regard as a chastisement from God for the sin of the nation; and

Whereas the interests of the Church, as well as the nation, are imperilled by the disasters of the times: therefore,

1. Resolved, That, as a Conference, we deeply deplore and humbly confess before Almighty God our manifold national sins, and do heartily implore his forgiveness and grace for reformation.

2. Resolved, That we have unwavering devotion to the cause of human freedom, and unshaken confidence in the God of battles and of nations.

3. Resolved, That, in our view, the Government should spare no vigor and know no compromise in treating rebellion.

4. Resolved, That we give all support consistent with our calling and within our power to sustain the arms of the Government.

5. Resolved, That we redouble our efforts in promoting vital godliness, both in the army and in civil life.

3.30) PRESBYTERY OF ELYRIA, OHIO, SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Whereas the present session of this Presbytery occurs at a time of great danger and distress, when dark clouds lower upon us as a nation, and our minds are afflicted with fears and forebodings, if not for the ultimate success of the struggle of arms now progressing, at least for the lives of thousands, and for the multiplied interests of civilization and religion: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That, as a Presbytery and as individuals, we deeply sympathize with the great effort which loyal men of the nation are making to put down this wicked and causeless rebellion.

2. That we feel ourselves called upon and bound to support, in every legitimate way, by our influence, our prayers, and our efforts, our national Executive in the great leading purpose which he has declared to the world of preserving, by every means within his reach, the Union, and of restoring and vindicating the outraged authority of our national Government throughout all that territory now in rebellion.

3. That, esteeming American slavery to be the primary and immediate cause of our present trouble, we believe that all protection and forbearance to it on the part of the nation has been forfeited, and that it is the duty of our national authorities, legislative and executive, to bring it to an end just as soon as may be consistent with the success of the present conflict of arms in which we are engaged.

4. That we recognize it as a time for being humbled before God, in view of the heavy judgments that have come upon us, and of discerning the cause not only in the sin of enslaving and perpetuating the bondage of the colored race, but in other national sins.

5. That the loyal men of the nation are, in our judgment, called upon to look to Almighty God for deliverance, and to use every means to propitiate his merciful favor, not only by putting away with a strong hand the crime of American slavery, but by every other proper means. Especially do we feel that intemperance, profanity, and Sabbath-breaking, now fearfully prevalent, since they alienate from us the favor of God, should be looked upon as offences against our nation's cause, disloyalties as well as sins.

6. That the Lord's day should not be broken in upon and diverted from its original purpose, as a day of rest unto him, so long as in the providence of God it is not rendered absolutely necessary, believing as we do that this course will best subserve not only the interests of religion, but the cause of our country.

3.31) THE SYNOD OF OHIO (NEW-SCHOOL PRESBYTERIAN), SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Resolved, That we cordially approve the patriotic action of our General Assembly, at its late sessions in Cincinnati, on the state of the country, and rejoice to know that our ministers and members with such unanimity sustain the Government in its great struggle for existence, and for the suppression of the vast and wicked rebellion now threatening its overthrow.

Resolved, That we regard the rebellion as permitted in the righteous providence of God as a chastisement for our sins as a nation, and especially for the sin of enslaving our fellow-men and holding them in cruel bondage; and we therefore rejoice in the recent proclamation of our worthy President, striking at the root of this evil by prohibiting our armies from returning slaves escaping from their masters and coming within our lines, by requiring the confiscation act to be enforced, and by proclaiming liberty to the slaves of all those States that shall be found in rebellion against our Government on the 1st day of January, 1863, and that we will exert our influence in all appropriate ways in our several spheres of labor to give practical effect to these principles.

Resolved, That we will remember and sustain in the future, as we have done in the past, by our prayers and sympathies and contributions, all those engaged in the praiseworthy and noble work of maintaining our free institutions intact, and preserving the integrity of our nation, and suppressing this rebellion and eradicating its bitter root, so that we may enjoy a righteous and honorable peace that shall be enduring as our mountains and deep and perpetual as the flow of our mighty rivers.

3.32) THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK (CONGREGATIONAL), SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Resolutions on the State of the Country.

1. Resolved, That, inasmuch as freedom to worship God according to the unrestricted dictate of conscience, and the inalienable equality in the rights and privileges of all, are the elemental and vitalizing principles of our Church polity, we, as Congregationalists, are unalterably devoted to the holy cause of liberty, and always to the Government that maintains it.

2. That we regard as the basis of civil and religious freedom the eternal law of God, which requires that every man shall love his neighbor as himself, and we rejoice that the Constitution of the United States, in its article on the freedom of religious worship, recognizes the same Divine and unchangeable principle.

3. That so long as this nation is true to the principle of equality of civil and religious rights we can have no fear for the perpetuity of our Union, which was constructed to maintain that principle for ourselves, our posterity, and the world.

4. That we recognize with devout gratitude the unusual and continued spirit of prayer for the nation, and the repeated interpositions of Divine Providence in our behalf, as the evidence that God has set his seal of approbation on the efforts of the people and the Government to preserve and perpetuate the Constitution and the Union.

5. That in the steady progress toward unity of sentiment, from the day of the wanton attack on Fort Sumter, we see the educational process of God in preparing us to take our proper stand in the great struggle between Liberty and Despotism, on which the highest interests of our nation and humanity are staked.

6. That we hail with great joy the late proclamation of the President of the United States, in which he announces EMANCIPATION FOR THE ENSLAVED; regarding it as eminently wise and timely, and as a grand advance towards the desired consummation of our present conflict, in the establishment of enduring peace with freedom throughout the entire land.

7. That we confidently anticipate that when God shall have disciplined and thoroughly purified us as a people, and delivered us from the degradation and curse of slavery, he will make our example eminently effective for the education of the struggling nations of the world in the great principles of healthful civil and religious freedom, so fulfilling his manifest purpose in the formation of this Christian republic on the basis of popular intelligence, of wholesome liberty, and of constitutional self-government.

8. That a delegation of this body be appointed to proceed to Washington City, personally to present the above resolutions to his Excellency the President of the United States, with the assurance of our profoundest sympathy with him in his present trying situation; and that we shall continue our earnest daily supplications to God, the great Ruler of Nations, that he would bestow upon him the wisdom and the fortitude necessary for the prompt and faithful discharge of his duties.

3.33) GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE CONGREGATIONAL MINISTERS OF MASSACHUSETTS, SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Resolved, With humility and shame we confess the sins that have brought the righteous judgments of God upon our nation. Our pride, ambition, and worldliness have led us to sin with a high hand. We have oppressed and enslaved the poor and needy. We have defiled the good land that the Lord has given us.

Resolved, We receive the fact that an armed rebellion still rages unsuppressed and defiant against our Government not only as a proof that we are not yet as a nation sufficiently humbled before God and therefore not prepared for his deliverance, but also as an earnest call for our greatly increased humiliation and prayers, and our augmented energy and self-sacrifice for the defence of our liberties.

Resolved, While we acknowledge our entire dependence upon God for the triumph of our Government, we believe that God will secure this result through appropriate human agencies ; and therefore we look for a complete and permanent restoration of union and peace to our country only from the removal of slavery, - the chief source of this rebellion.

Resolved, We believe that we express the unanimous feeling of our churches in this State when we pledge our loyal support and sympathy to the President of these United States in the most vigorous measures for the suppression of this rebellion. We fervently implore for him, his cabinet, and all our civil and military authorities, the wisdom and guidance of Heaven, so necessary to the discharge of their present solemn responsibilities; upon our army and navy, the protection of God and the courage which comes from his presence and obedience to his holy commands; and the consolations of the gospel upon the sick and wounded, and the households mourning for the death of the slain.

Resolved, That since the first distracting novelty of the war has given place to deeper thoughtfulness in the public mind, and multitudes are called to the most solemn duty of laying themselves or their friends on the altar of their country, and we know not but that more fearful judgments of Heaven will yet take away one of every two in the field and by the fireside, it is the pressing duty of ministers and churches to labor as never before for the immediate conversion of all hearts to Christ.

3.34) UNITED STATES CONVENTION OF UNIVERSALISTS, SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Resolved, That while in our judgment we must accept the existing strife as the natural and inevitable penalty of our national infidelity to our republican principles and of an attempt to reconcile freedom and slavery (which are essentially irreconcilable), we renewedly profess our faith in the justice of our cause and in the certainty of our final triumph, and renewedly tender to the President and his constitutional advisers the assurance of our sympathy amid the great responsibilities of their position, and of our hearty support in all proper and efficient efforts to suppress this atrocious rebellion.

Resolved, That we have occasion in the midst of events through which we are passing to be deeply impressed with the reality of God's moral rule, and to learn anew the lesson that neither nations nor individuals can safely defy his law, nor hope to escape from the inexorable ordinance that sinners must eat the fruits of their doings.

3.35) THE OHIO PRESBYTERY OF THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, OCTOBER, 1862.

The proclamation of emancipation, bearing date September 22, 1862, by Abraham Lincoln, we regard - and no doubt enlightened and liberal men over all the earth will regard - as one of the greatest events and one of the best signs of our extraordinary times. To have been destined to issue it is glory enough for one man. It will stand in future history in the same category with Magna Charta and the Declaration of American Independence. It is a living, hearty, and generous seed, which will produce through God much good, - local and world-wide fruit. It will save our nation. It is, in the result, the death of slavery and the rebellion. This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working. Therefore,

Resolved, That this Presbytery recognizes the late proclamation of the President of the United States in reference to the emancipation of the slaves of those States now in rebellion against the Government as righteous and eminently proper; that we hail it as a favorable omen that this nation is at last disposed to be just to the oppressed of the land and place itself on the side of God and humanity.

That, in carrying out the principles of this proclamation, the President should receive the hearty support of all loyal citizens, and that now more than ever we and the people under our care should remember him in all his enlightened efforts to save the nation and in all his righteous measures for the emancipation of the oppressed.

3.36) NEW-SCHOOL PRESBYTERIAN SYNOD OF WISCONSIN, SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Whereas a fearful civil war still continues to rage with increasing intensity in these United States, and by its falling victims bringing grief and mourning to a multitude of homes; and

Whereas it comes like a withering blight over the fair heritage of God, taking away the standard-bearers from our churches, and making large drafts upon the young, who soon were expected to be the efficient laborers in the vineyard of the Lord, who, with hearts full of loyalty and patriotism, have gone forth to their country's call: there fore,

Resolved, 1. That we do penitently acknowledge the justice of God, who has laid on us the rod of his correction for the national sins and individual offences of which we have been guilty, though often rebuked and reproved, and heartily pray that the time may soon be at hand when his wrath may be averted, and peace be restored to our distracted and bleeding country.

2. That as a Church our testimony in the past has ever been against oppression and in favor of constitutional liberty: so we cannot now withhold an earnest expression of our deepening hostility to the infamous evil which is admitted as the guilty cause of what we are now suffering.

3. That we are anxiously waiting to hear authoritatively proclaimed from the seat of Government universal freedom to the oppressed, which presents the only hope that the Divine displeasure will be turned away and the blessings of peace and prosperity again restored.

4. That the Church is most impressively urged to withdraw her confidence from all human instrumentalities as adequate to overthrow this gigantic rebellion, and to fix her eye unswervingly on the God of nations and the God of battles in this day of our country's peril.

3.37) THE CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA, SEPTEMBER, 1862.

Inasmuch as God has permitted civil war to exist in this nation, and to spread and gain in intensity and power till it involves the entire energies of the nation and threatens the very existence of the Government, it becomes us who profess to fear God, to love our Government and the institutions which are sustained and cherished by it, to inquire into the causes of this dire calamity, and to help put them away, that peace may be restored and the blessing of God once more rest upon the nation.

We believe that while there are many violations of God's law, and much that is evil, and only evil, provoking continually the Almighty to jealousy and anger, yet still the great crowning evil, and that for which God has poured his judgments upon us in so terrible a manner, is our system of slavery. As a Christian and democratic nation, we have so far departed from our principles as to hold four millions of our fellow-beings as property. We have made the largest cities in the nation slave-marts, where the voice of the auctioneer offering for money "the souls and bodies of men" is almost continually heard. We have made whole States slave-breeding and slave-selling States, in consequence of which the sighs and tears caused by the separation of families and kindred ties have never ceased to be heard or to flow. We have prostituted our civil principles to this barbarous practice. We have denied the equality of men's natural rights. We have by judicial dicta thrown a whole race beyond the pale of Governmental protection. We have denied the sovereignty of God in the supremacy of his law, that this evil might be sustained. We have chased the poor fugitive, and delivered him to his inhuman master, in direct contravention of the word of God and the violation of every principle of civilization or feeling of humanity. We have built political parties on a prejudice of color, and have gained political influence by the crushing out of the African mind the last ray of hope of protection by the Government for a solitary right. The religious influence of the nation, as a great whole, has either participated in this inhuman work or stood by consenting.

For this great sin, deeply ingrained in the public character, God has permitted this war to come upon us. The hand of God has so directed it as to make it, from a trifling beginning, to assume gigantic proportions, already to have slain its hundreds of thousands, and is now wasting with a fury seldom known in any land. If the nation escapes an entire overthrow in all its material and moral interests, or even its existence, it will be through God's great mercy alone.

With these convictions upon our minds, and the fear of God before our eyes, we do now confess this great sin of ourselves and the nation, and we will continually pray for God's wrath to be averted, that the nation may be restored to such a peace as God shall ordain and establish. We will especially pray for our rulers and the leaders in the army and navy, that they may fear God, and be directed by Divine wisdom in overcoming this rebellion, by destroying slavery, the cause of it, and thereby secure again the favor and aid of the Almighty.

We will pray for the soldiers, every day, that they may be sustained in the great sacrifices they are making for their country's good and in accomplishing the Divine purpose. We will sympathize also with the friends of those who have fallen, or may fall, while fighting for their country.

As individuals, we pledge ourselves to go or stay, to give our substance or suffer, as God in his providence may seem to require for our country's good. And, acting under the conviction that the judgment of God is resting upon us as a nation, we will abstain from amusements and gratifications in which we may have indulged in other circumstances, and give ourselves up to self-denial, that God's wrath may be turned away, and freedom and peace without sinful compromise be restored to the nation, and vital godliness be revived and spread.

3.38) THE AMERICAN BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS FOR FOREIGN MISSIONS, OCTOBER, 1862.

The Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, in its last annual meeting, rendered its sympathy in the struggle of our national Government with rebellion, and its prayer to the God of nations so to overrule the conflict that the rebellion may be crushed, slavery, its prime cause, removed, and that peace, prosperity, and righteousness may be permanently established throughout our land.

Again assembled for the annual review of our work in its progress and in its hindrances, we are compelled to recognize again the relation between the great extension of Christian benevolence with which we are intrusted, and the conflict of our country with a huge and desperate rebellion; we are reminded that wherever our missionaries labor, their personal safety, their liberty to pursue their work, and their privilege of standing unawed before the rudest of barbarous nations, are partly dependent, under the providence of God, on the fact that they are citizens of the United States, protected in all parts of the earth by the influential power of the great republic, and we are compelled to see that what this rebellion aims at the division of our country among two or more naturally independent confederacies, weak in themselves and jealous and hostile towards each other-would weaken the hands of American missionaries in every part of the world. We are reminded, too, that the entire moral influence of the American Churches upon the world is far more powerful and beneficent from the fact that they are the Churches of a great, united, sovereign, and self-governed people. Therefore it is impossible for us to entertain a thought of any termination of this war otherwise than in the perfect restoration of the Union under the Constitution, which, by the favor of God, has made this nation heretofore so great and prosperous in its freedom. We record again our loyal sympathy with the President of the United States in the struggle to vindicate and maintain "the supreme law of the land" according to his inaugural oath, and our confidence that, according to his proclaimed intention, he will not fail to employ for that purpose against the enemies of the United States all those powers with which he is invested by the Constitution of the United States, and all those means of subjugation which are warranted by the law of nations and the law of God. And with our renewed prayer to the God to whose displeasure at the wickedness which fills the earth with sadness and oppression all history has testified, and who so often wrought deliverance for our fathers in their perils, we record our grateful confidence that the rebellion will be crushed, that slavery, its prime cause, will be removed, and that peace, prosperity, and righteousness will be permanently established in our land.

3.39) NEW-SCHOOL SYNOD OF PENNSYLVANIA, OCTOBER, 1862.

Whereas the Synod is called once more to meet in the midst of a civil conflict which has carried desolation and suffering through a wide district of country: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That we render devout thanksgivings to Almighty God for that measure of success which has hitherto attended our arms; that we humble ourselves, and acknowledge the justice of our heavenly Father, wherein he has seen good to afflict us; that we rejoice in the integrity, the patriotism, and the firmness of our distinguished Chief Magistrate ; that we record with lively satisfaction his avowal of a purpose to protect the unity of these States and the nationality of our Government, at every expense of treasure and of blood, and that he has recently, by his repeated proclamations, expressed his determination to subordinate every local interest and institution to the great cause of American freedom, of good government, and of the universal and permanent safety and prosperity of his native land.

2. That the Synod expresses its highest approbation of the brave, faithful, and true-hearted men who have volunteered for their country's protection; that we sympathize with them in all their hardships and sufferings ; that we give them the assurance of our daily and fervent prayers for their triumph in the day of battle, for their consolation if cast down wounded, for their comfort in the hospital, and their support in sickness and in death .

3. That in the bloody martyrdoms of this wicked rebellion we recognize new motives to abhor the crime of treason against law, and new inducements to condemn and abrogate that system of oppression which has not only suggested treason, but the most cruel and bloody methods of putting it into practice ; and we urge upon all loyal people to mark with their complete abhorrence all who resist the efforts of the Government for its suppression.

4. That in the labors of our ministers and people for the benefit of the sick and wounded soldiers, in the readiness of parents, wives, sisters, and friends to surrender their objects of dearest affection to the perils of war, in the large contributions of money and goods made to the Government to aid in suppressing the unholy rebellion, in the patient endurance with which our people have borne themselves in seasons of social bereavement and national disaster, we recognize a blessed revival of patriotism, humanity, and Christian devotion to the pure, the noble, the right.

3.40) HARRISBURG PRESBYTERY, 1862.

1. That, while the Presbytery deeply mourns the continuance of the unhappy war in which our country is involved, we see no other path of duty for the Government and the loyal people of the land to walk in than a vigorous prosecution of it, with all the means that God has placed in our power and that humanity will approve, until the Union of the States is restored and the authority of the Constitution is every- where acknowledged.

2. That, recognizing the good providence of God which has hitherto been with us to encourage us in the days of our country's deepest humiliation and to grant many signal victories, and realizing that ultimate success must come from God alone, we humbly pray that he would guide the councils and the armies of the Government to a speedy and happy issue of all our troubles.

3. That we regard the late proclamation of President Lincoln, which, after the 1st of January, 1863, confers emancipation upon the slaves of all who shall then be found in rebellion to the Government, as a most just and necessary measure in securing the speedy termination of the war, and as an auspicious providential opening for the final deliverance of the country from that system of iniquity which is the chief cause of our national wars.

4. That, recognizing the hand and the power of God in that Government which we have ordained over us, we view with abhorrence, and call upon all loyal people to mark with their complete disapprobation, all efforts, wherever made, to impair the confidence of the people in the Government, or to resist by word or deed the execution of the laws.

5. That we urge upon all Christian people, while confessing in deep humiliation their own sins and the sin of the nation, to cease not, in the weekly assemblages of the house of God, at their family altars, and in the place of secret prayer, to beseech God for his blessing upon the Government, the army and the navy, for the suppression of rebellion, and for the speedy restoration of a righteous and a permanent peace.

6. That, in view of the great demand which is laid upon the practical beneficence of the country in behalf of the sick and wounded soldiers of the army, we urge upon our congregations, and upon the patriot everywhere, to repay their debt of gratitude to these brave and noble men by all possible care for their health and comfort.

3.41) THE TRIENNIAL CONVENTION OF THE PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE UNITED STATES, IN SESSION AT THE CITY OF NEW YORK, OCТОВЕR, 1862.

Resolved, By the House of Clerical and Lay Deputies of this stated Triennial Convention, that assembling, as we have been called to do, at a period of great national peril and deplorable civil convulsion, it is meet and proper that we should call to mind, distinctly and publicly, that the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States hath ever held and taught, in the language of one of its articles of religion, that "it is the duty of all men who are professors of the gospel to pay respectful obedience to the civil authority regularly and legitimately constituted," and hath accordingly incorporated into its Liturgy "a prayer for the President of the United States and all in civil authority," and a "prayer for the Congress of the United States, to be used during their session," and hath bound all orders of its ministry to the faithful and constant observance, in letter and spirit, of these and all other parts of its prescribed ritual.

Resolved, That we cannot be wholly blind to the course which has been pursued, in their ecclesiastical as well as in their civil relations, since this Convention last met in perfect harmony and love, by great numbers of the ministers and members of this Church within certain States of our Union which have arrayed themselves in open and armed resistance to the regularly constituted Government of our country; and that while, in a spirit of Christian forbearance, we refrain from employing towards them any terms. of condemnation and reproach, and would rather bow in humiliation before our common Father in heaven for the sins which have brought his judgment on our land, we yet feel bound to declare our solemn sense of the deep and grievous wrong which they will have inflicted on the great Christian communion which this Convention represents, as well as on the country within which it has been so happily and harmoniously established, should they persevere in striving to rend asunder those civil and religious bonds which have so long held us together in peace, unity, and concord.

Resolved, That while, as individuals and citizens, we acknowledge our whole duty in sustaining and defending our country in the great struggle in which it is engaged, we are only at liberty, as deputies to this council of a Church which hath ever renounced all political association and action, to pledge to the national Government - as we now do - the earnest and devout prayers of all, that its efforts may be so guided by wisdom and replenished with strength that they may be crowned with speedy and complete success, to the glory of God and the restoration of our beloved Union.

Resolved, That if, in the judgment of the bishops, any other forms of occasional prayer than those already set forth shall seem desirable and appropriate, whether for our Convention or Church or our country, for our rulers or our defenders, or for the sick and wounded and dying of our army and navy and volunteers, we shall gladly receive them and fervently use them.

During the sittings of the Convention, the House of Bishops, with a dignity worthy of themselves and the occasion, ordered a day of prayer and fasting in view of the great national crisis through which we are passing. The official resolution was worded as follows: -

The House of Bishops, in consideration of the present afflicted condition of the country, propose to devote Wednesday, the 8th of October instant, as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, and to hold in Trinity Church a solemn service appropriate to the occasion.

The Bishops affectionately request the House of Clerical and Lay Deputies to join with them in said observance.

In accordance with this resolution, the Convention adjourned for the day specified.

Long before eleven o'clock - the hour announced for the service - the church was crowded. At eleven precisely the bishops and clergy entered the church, and occupied the seats leading to the middle aisle.

The order of Morning Service was modified for the occasion. Instead of the Venite, the one hundred and thirtieth Psalm was chanted: -

"Out of the deep have I called unto thee, Lord; Lord, hear my voice," - the proper Psalm for the day. The first lesson was the forty-ninth chapter of Isaiah, and the second from the sixth chapter of St. Luke, beginning at the twentieth verse.

To the suffrage in the Litany for "unity, peace, and concord" was added, "and especially to this nation, now afflicted by civil war."

Immediately after the general thanksgiving the following 
special prayers were read: -

Almighty and most holy Lord our God, who dost command us to humble ourselves under thy mighty hand that thou mayest exalt us in due time, we, thine unworthy servants, desire most humbly to confess before thee, in this the time of sore affliction in our land, how deeply as a nation we deserve thy wrath. In the great calamities which have come upon us we acknowledge thy righteous visitation, and bow down our souls under the mighty hand of our holy and merciful God and Father. Manifold are our sins and transgressions, and the more sinful because of the abundance of our privileges and mercies under thy providence and grace. In pride and living unto ourselves; in covetousness and worldliness of mind; in self-sufficiency and self-dependence; in glorying in our own wisdom and richness and strength, instead of glorying only in thee; in making our boast of thy unmerited blessings, as if our own might and wisdom had gotten them, instead of acknowledging thee in all and seeking first thy kingdom and righteousness: in profanencss of speech and ungodliness of life; in polluting thy Sabbaths, and receiving in vain thy grace in the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, we acknowledge, Lord, that as a nation and people we have grievously sinned against thy Divine Majesty, provoking most justly thy wrath and indignation against us. Righteousness belongeth unto thee, but unto us confusion of face. Because thy compassions have not failed, therefore we are not consumed. Make us earnestly to repent and heartily to be sorry for these our misdoings. May the remembrance of them be grievous unto us. Turn unto thee, Lord, the hearts of all this people in humiliation and prayer, that thou mayest have compassion upon us and deliver us. When thy judgments are thus upon us, may the inhabitants of the land learn righteousness. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. For thy Son our Lord Jesus Christ's sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and please thee in newness of life, to the honor and glory of thy name. We beseech thee so to sanctify unto us our present distresses, and so to make haste to deliver us, that war shall be no more in all our borders, and that all resistance to the lawful Government of the land shall utterly cease. May our brethren who seek the dismemberment of our national Union, under which this people by thy providence have been so signally prospered and blest, be convinced of their error and restored to a better mind. Grant that all bitterness and wrath and anger and malice may be put away from them and us, and that brotherly love and fellowship may be established among us to all generations. Thus may the land bring forth her increase, under the blessings of peace, and thy people serve thee in all godly quietness, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Grant, Lord, we beseech thee, to all such as are intrusted with the government and defence of this nation, thy most gracious support and guidance. Graft in their hearts a deep sense of dependence on thy wisdom and power and favor, and incline them with all humility to seek the same. In all their ways may they dutifully acknowledge thee, that thou mayest direct their steps. Make thy word to be their light, thy service their glory, and thine arm their strength. Further them with thy continual help, that in all their works - begun, continued, and ended in thee - they may glorify thy holy name. Under their heavy burdens and trials be thou their refuge and consolation. By their counsels and measures, under thy blessing, may the wounds of the nation be speedily healed. For those our brethren who have gone forth for our defence, by land or water, we seek thy most gracious blessing and protection. In every duty and danger be thou their present help. In all privations and sufferings give them patience and resignation, and a heart to seek their comfort in thee. May they be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might, hating iniquity, fearing God, and obeying his word. Give them success in every enterprise that shall be pleasing to thee. Visit with the consolations of thy grace all sick and wounded persons, all prisoners, and all those bereaved of relatives and friends by reason of the present calamities. Prepare to meet thee all those who shall die in this conflict. Give them unfeigned repentance for all the errors of their lives past, and steadfast faith in thy Son Jesus, that they may be received unto thyself. And finally unite us all together in the blessedness of thy everlasting kingdom, through Him who liveth and reigneth, with thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.

Let thy continual pity, O Lord, cleanse and defend thy Church; and in these days of sore trial to thy people raise up thy power, and come among us, and with great might succor us. Grant that, by the operation of the Holy Ghost, all Christians may be so joined together in unity of spirit and in the bond of peace that they may be a holy temple acceptable unto thee. May all counsels of dissension and division be brought to naught. Increase our faith and love and zeal in thy service and for the coming of thy kingdom. Make the whole Church a light in the world; and the more her afflictions abound, so much the more may her consolations also abound by Christ, to the praise and glory of thy name.   Amen.

After the liturgical service, the thirty-second selection of 
Psalms, beginning, -

"Thy chastening wrath, Lord, restrain," -

was song by the choir.

The eightieth hymn was sung. It begins thus: -

"Almighty God, before thy throne 
Thy mourning people bend; 
'Tis on thy pardoning grace alone 
Our prostrate hopes depend."

By special request the music was, in accordance with the sentiment of the occasion, as simple and unpretending as possible.

Before the benediction a short prayer was read, beseeching "Infinite Mercy" to appease the tumults among us, to bring to an end the dreadful strife which is now raging in our land, and to restore peace to our afflicted country.

The services were conducted by Bishops McCroskey, of Michigan, Kemper, of Wisconsin, Smith, of Kentucky, Whittingham, of Maryland, Hopkins, of Vermont, and McIlvaine, of Ohio.

Bishop McIlvaine prepared the following

3.42) Pastoral Address of the House of Bishops to the Clergy and Laity.

Brethren: - We have been assembled together in our Triennial Convention under most afflicting circumstances. Hitherto, whatever our Church had to contend with from the fallen nature of man, from the power of this evil world, or the enmity of that mighty adversary who is called by St. Paul the "god of this world," her chief council has been permitted to meet, amidst the blessings of peace, within our national boundaries and as representing a household of faith at unity in itself. Our last meeting was in the metropolis of a State which has long hold a high place and influence in the affairs of our Church and country. Long shall we remember the affectionate hospitality which was there lavished on us, and the delightful harmony and brotherly love which seemed to reign, almost without alloy, in a Convention composed of representatives of all our dioceses. Never did the promise of a long continuance of brotherly union among all parts and sections of our whole Church appear more assuring; but, alas! what is man! how unstable our surest reliances, based on man's wisdom or will!

How unsearchable His counsel who hath "his way on the sea, and his path on the mighty waters," and whose footsteps are not known! What is now the change! We look in vain for the occupants of seats in the Convention belonging to the representatives of not less than ten of our dioceses, and to ten of our bishops. And whence comes such painful and injurious absence? The cause stands as a great cloud of darkness before us, of which, as we cannot help seeing it and thinking of it wherever we go and whatever we do, and that most sorrowfully, it is impossible not to speak when we address you in regard to the condition and wants of our Church. That cause is all concentrated in a stupendous rebellion against the organic law and the constitutional Government of the country, for the dismemberment of our national Union, under which, confessedly, all parts of the land have been signally prospered and blessed, - a rebellion which is already too well known to you, brethren, in the vast armies that it has compelled our Government to maintain, and in the fearful expense of life and treasure, of suffering and sorrow, which it has cost on both sides, to need any further description here.

We are deeply grieved to think how many of our brethren, clergy and laity, of the regions over which that dark tide has spread, have been carried away by its flood, - not only yielding to it, so as to place themselves, as far as in them lay, in severance from our ecclesiastical union, which has so long and so happily joined us together in one communion and fellowship, but to a sad extent sympathizing with the movement and giving it their active co-operation.

In this part of our letter we make no attempt to estimate the moral character of such doings. At present we are confined to the statement of notorious facts, except as to one matter of which this is the convenient place to speak.

When the ordained ministers of the gospel of Christ, whose mission is so emphatically one of peace and good will, of tenderness and consolation, do so depart from their sacred calling as to take the sword and engage in the fierce and bloody conflicts of war, - when in so doing they are fighting against authorities which, as "the powers that be," the Scriptures declare "are ordained of God," so that in resisting them they are resisting the ordinance of God, - when, especially, one comes out from the exalted spiritual duties of an overseer of the flock of Christ, to exercise high command in such awful work, - we cannot, as ourselves overseers of the same flock, consistently with duty to Christ's Church, ministry, and people, refrain from placing on such examples our strong condemnation. We remember those words of our blessed Lord, uttered among his last words, and for the special admonition of his ministers, "they that take the sword shall perish with the sword."

Returning to this great rebellion, with all its retinue of costs and sacrifices, of tribulation and anguish, of darkness and death, there are two aspects in which we must contemplate it, namely, as it comes by the agency of man, and as it proceeds from the providence of God.

We desire, first, to call your attention thereto, as it proceeds from the providence of God. So comprehensive is that providence that it embraces all worlds and all nations, while it is so minute that not a sparrow falleth without the knowledge and will of our Father in heaven. In its vast counsels, this deep affliction has a place; God's hand is in it; his power rules it. It is his visitation and chastening for the sins of the nation. Who can doubt it? Just as the personal affliction of any of you is God's visitation to turn him from the world and sin unto himself, so is this national calamity most certainly his judgment on this nation for its good. And we trust, dear brethren, that we are in no danger of seeming, by such interpretation of our distresses, to excuse in any degree such agency as men have had in bringing them upon us. God's providence has no interference with man's responsibility. He works by man, but so that it is still man that wills as well as works. The captivities of God's chosen people were, as his word declares, his judgment upon them for their sins; while the nations that carried them captive were visited of God for heinous guilt in so doing. Saint Peter declares that our Lord was delivered unto death by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, and that, nevertheless, it was by "wicked hands" that he was "crucified and slain." Thus, we need be under no temptation to diminish our estimate of the present dispensation of sorrow, as proceeding from the counsel of God, in punishment for our sins, whatever the agency of man therein. So to consider it is our duty, as Christians and as patriots, that it may do us the good for which it is sent and may be the sooner taken away.

It is not possible for us in this address to set before you in detail, or in their true proportions, all the national and other sins which make us as a people to deserve and need the chastisements of a holy God. It needs no Daniel, inspired from on high, to discover them. Surely you must all be painfully familiar with many of them in the profaneness of speech with which God's name and majesty are assailed; in the neglect of public worship, which so dishonors his holy day; in the ungodliness of life which erects its example so conspicuously; and especially in that great sin for which Jerusalem was given over to be trodden down by the heathen, and the people of Israel have ever since been made wanderers and a by-word among the nations, - namely, the rejection - whether in positive infidelity or only in practical unbelief - of God's great gift of grace and mercy, his beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to be a sacrifice of propitiation for our sins and an all-glorious Saviour of our souls.

But there is a passage in the Scriptures which is of great use as a guide in the consideration of national sinfulness. It is a warning to the nations of Israel, and is found in the eighth chapter of the book of Deuteronomy, as follows: - "Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day; lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and hast dwelt therein, and when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied, then thy heart be lifted up, and thou forget the Lord thy God; and thou say in thy heart, My power and the might of my hand hath gotten me all this wealth. But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God; for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth. And it shall be that if thou do at all forget the Lord thy God, as the nations which the Lord destroyed before your face, so shall ye perish, because ye would not be obedient to the voice of the Lord your God."

Now, it was because that nation was guilty of precisely such self-glorying and such forgetfulness of its indebtedness to God and dependence on his favor as this warning describes, that the grievous calamities which so fill its history before the advent of Christ were brought upon it. And it is because there is so much agreement between this description and the aspect which we, as a people, have presented before God, that we place the passage before you.

Marvellously have we been prospered in every thing pertaining to national prosperity, riches, and strength. God has loaded us with benefits, and with our benefits have grown our ingratitude, our self-dependence and self-sufficiency, our pride and vain-glory.

A synopsis of the residue of the address can only be given.

After exhorting the people to repent of the sins which have caused God's judgments on the nation, that they might be exalted in due time, as God's hand was not shortened that it could not save, the letter broached the second point, - the agency of man in creating the troubles of the country. It was a subject which was approached with great diffidence, but one which the House of Bishops could not refrain from mentioning, especially as the clergy and laity desired their expression on it. They looked around and beheld the vacant seats of their absent brethren. It was the first time the Convention had met since the calamities of the nation commenced; and might the Almighty order that, when they should again convene, those calamities should have passed away and peace and union reign throughout the land. When they reviewed the state of the country, they found an immense force ready to effect its division: they beheld all the sad results of the war; they saw vast armies in the field, sharing the perils of battle; military hospitals were thronged with the wounded, and everywhere they witnessed the painful results of the conflict. The Church looked on the scene. What was her duty, and how should she accomplish it? Her duty in the emergency was to proclaim obedience to the Government, or, in the words of Scripture, the powers that be which are ordained of God, and to declare that whoever resisted them resisted the ordinance of God and was liable to damnation. That was the course of the Church. The obligations to remain in the Union were as legal and forcible on the States which had seceded as those which remained in it.

Allegiance was rightly due to their common Government, and refusing such allegiance was sin, which culminated in a great crime against the laws of God and man when it appeared in the form of rebellion. In cases where States should leave the Government without cause, or in the event of their suffering wrongs which provisions had been made to redress, they were guilty of the horrors of the war which they opened. The homily against rebellion denounced all attempts to subvert legally-constituted Government. The letter next noticed, in eloquent terms, the patriotism of the people in giving their substance and treasure and sending forth mighty armies to battle for the unity of the nation and the Government. After stating that the troubles of the country might lead many away from religion and draw others to God, it enjoined the people to be constant in prayer, and not let their love of country decrease their love of God. They should beseech the Almighty in mercy to take away the calamities which they all deplored, and which were caused by sin. They should, however, remember that to hate rebellion was a duty, but to hate rebels was the opposite of duty. Let them under no circumstances be unmindful of the words of the Saviour, who told them to love their enemies, and who, while they were themselves enemies, died on the cross for their salvation.

Reply of the President.

Right Reverend and Dear Sir: - The copy which you sent me of the "Pastoral Letter of the Bishops of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America" has been submitted to the President. He authorizes me to assure you that he receives with the most grateful satisfaction the evidences which that calm, candid, and earnest paper gives of the loyalty of the very extended religious communion over which you preside, to the Constitution and Government of the United States. I am further instructed to say that the exposition which the highest ecclesiastical authority of that communion has given in the Pastoral Letter, of the intimate connection which exists between fervent patriotism and true Christianity, seems to the President equally seasonable and unanswerable. Earnestly invoking the Divine blessing equally upon our religious and civil institutions, that they may altogether safely resist the storm of faction, and continue hereafter, as heretofore, to sustain and invigorate each other, and so promote the common welfare of mankind, I have the honor to be, right reverend and dear sir, faithfully yours,

William H. Seward.

3.43) The General Convention of the Methodist Protestant Church, Cincinnati, Ohio, November, 1862.

Whereas our country continues to be involved in all the horrors and dangers of a civil war unparalleled in the history of the world, alike in its gigantic proportions and in the vital interests which it shall affect for good or ill; and

Whereas we cannot be cold spectators of the scenes occurring around us, because they appeal to our sympathies and our principles as patriots, as Christians, and as philanthropists; and

Whereas we deem it our duty to our country, to the world at large, and to our God, to utter our sympathies and sentiments in this hour of danger to the country and to civil liberty: therefore,

1. Resolved, That we cling with fond affection to the institutions bequeathed to us by our Revolutionary sires, and that we infinitely prefer them to any other that ever have been, or that may be, proposed as a substitute for them.

2. Resolved, That we therefore sanction, with all our hearts, the prosecution of the current war for their maintenance, and we recommend that this war be pushed with the utmost energy and to the last extremity; because in its successful prosecution alone we see the prevention of anarchy and misrule, of wide-spread dissensions and mediaeval tyranny and vassalage, of universal distraction, contentions, and bloodshed, more fearfully desolating and terrible than any thing that can now result from the course that we thus earnestly recommend.

3. Resolved, That we heartily endorse the Emancipation Proclamation of President Lincoln, because it strikes at that baleful cause of all our civil and ecclesiastical difficulties, American slavery, - "the sum of all villanies," the darling idol of villains, the central power of villanous secessionism, but now, by the wisdom of the President, about to be made the agent of retributive justice in punishing that culmination of villanous enterprises, the attempt to overthrow the most glorious civil Government that God's providence ever established upon earth.

4. Resolved, That we earnestly deprecate all dissensions and divisions among those who profess loyalty to the Government and attachment to our free institutions; and that we deem it suspicious at least, if not strong evidence of sympathy with our enemies, when men in our midst attempt to create such divisions or dissensions upon any pretext whatsoever.

5. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to address the President of the United States, and express to him, in the name of the Methodist Protestant Church, the sentiments of loyalty contained in these resolutions, and to assure him that our people endorse his Proclamation, sustain the war, and are ready to do and suffer all things necessary for the maintenance of our glorious Government intact.

These resolutions were unanimously adopted by a rising vote, followed by a solemn season of prayer for the President of the United States.

3.44) The Synod of New Jersey (Old-School Presbyterian), October, 1862.

Whereas, being deeply impressed with the sinfulness before God of the present rebellion against our Government, with the widespread wickedness of our whole nation, which has brought upon us all the chastisement of civil war, with the necessity of that humiliation which the Divine judgments demand and are well fitted to induce, and with the duty of trusting sincerely in God alone for our national deliverance, and fearing that our people at large are not duly alive to the religious aspect of our public troubles: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That this Synod express to all the people under its care the deep and solemn conviction that the armed rebellion now in progress against our national Government cannot be viewed in any other light than as a grievous sin against God and his Church, and that in the present conflict of our Government with this rebellion there can be but two parties, - the friends and the enemies of the Government; and therefore all who in any way sympathize with or uphold the rebellion are involved in the guilt of its great sin.

Resolved, 2. That we regard the continuance, the enlarged and calamitous proportions, of our civil war as a solemn token of God's righteous displeasure with our whole nation, and a most impressive admonition that we are not suitably humbled for the manifold heinous sins of corruption, pride, ambition, self-confidence, forgetfulness of God, covetousness, Sabbath-desecration, irreligion, both of rulers and people, and oppression, especially of the colored race.

Resolved, 3. That a committee be appointed to draft a memorial to the President of the United States, to be signed by the Moderator and Stated Clerk, requesting him to appoint an early day for humiliation, fasting, and prayer.

Resolved, 4. That, in case the President shall not have previously appointed such a day, this Synod hereby recommend to all its churches to observe the said Thursday in December as a day of fasting, with suitable public and private services of devout humiliation and prayer, that the Lord may turn away his anger from our country, save the Union from destruction, and restore peace and harmony to our whole land.

Resolved, 5. That these resolutions be read by the ministers of this Synod to their respective congregations from the pulpit.

3.45) The Synod of Wheeling, Virginia (Old-School Presbyterian), October, 1862.

In view of the present condition of our Church and country, caused by the existing and terrible rebellion in the whole Southern portion of this Union, calling forth the warmest sympathy of God's people in behalf of our land and nation, the Synod of Wheeling do reaffirm her attachment to our Federal Government and Constitution, and that it is the imperative duty of all our people to maintain the same by upholding all persons in authority in all their lawful and proper acts, whether civil or military; and, with profound humility and dependence on the grace of God, we would seek for Divine guidance and assistance in our national troubles, and be encouraged by the blessed truth that "the Lord reigneth." And

Whereas God has revealed himself the hearer of prayer, and it is the privilege and duty of Christians to cry earnestly to the Lord in the time of individual or national calamity; and

Whereas the united prayers of God's people might be prevalent with the Most High to remove from our beloved land and nation the chastening hand with which he is so severely afflicting us, and that he would make us sincere in confessing our sins and humbling ourselves before the Lord in consequence of his judgments, which rest so heavily upon us, and, moreover, that he would grant grace unto those in rebellion to change their hearts and make them willing to return to loyalty and obedience to the Federal Government, which the God of nations has so long upheld and so wonderfully blessed in years that are past: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That the Synod of Wheeling, of the Presbyterian Church (Old School), now in session at Washington, Pennsylvania, do respectfully, but earnestly, ask his Excellency the President of these United States to appoint a day of humiliation, fasting, and prayer, to be observed by all the people of this land in view of the distracted state of our country.

Resolved, 2. That if his Excellency the President should fail to appoint said day, then the Synod do appoint the first Thursday of December next a day of humiliation, fasting, and prayer within our bounds, on which our people are recommended to meet in their respective churches, and confess their individual and national sins, and pray to Almighty God in behalf of our beloved and bleeding country, its Government, its army and navy, and its people, that armed rebellion may be overthrown and cease, and that the constitutional authorities of the Government may be vindicated, and that we may obtain a speedy, honorable, and permanent peace.

Resolved, 3. That the Stated Clerk of Synod be directed to forward a copy of the first resolution to the President of the United States as soon as practicable.

3.46) The Synod of Indiana (Old-School Presbyterian), October, 1862.

The Synod of Indiana, in session at Greensburgh, October 18, 1862, recognizing the manifold and grievous evils of the civil war by which the nation is convulsed and its very existence threatened, as the righteous judgment of God upon it for its national sins, and especially for its complicity with, and support of, the system of slavery existing in many of the States, for the instruction and guidance of the people under its own pastoral care, and all men to whom its voice may come, deems it its duty to declare:

That the nation has no right to expect that God will turn away from the nation his judgment, until the nation shall have, with sincere and godly repentance, turned from the sins by which the judgment has been provoked.

That it is, therefore, the imperative duty of the citizens of the nation, while humbling themselves under the mighty hand of God, and confessing their own sins and the sins of the nation, supplicating his mercy upon it, to urge upon the national Government the exertion of the whole power with which it is legitimately invested, whether under military law or otherwise, to withdraw the nation from all complicity with and support of slavery.

That it is the sacred duty of the whole people, by all the means in their possession and to the whole extent of their power, to sustain and support the Government in all lawful and just measures for the suppression of the traitorous rebellion which has been originated and sustained in the interest of slavery and slavery propagandism and domination.

3.47) The Philadelphia Baptist Association, October, 1862.

Resolved, That, as members of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, we reaffirm our unswerving loyalty to the Government of these United States.

Resolved, That in the trials through which we are passing as a nation we recognize the guidance of the Almighty, and see, not dimly, the purpose of his love to purify the fountains of our national life and develop in righteousness the elements of our national prosperity.

Resolved, That, as Christian citizens of this republic, it is our bounden duty to renounce all sympathy with sin, to rebuke all complicity with evil, and cherish a simple, cheerful confidence in Him whose omnipotence flowed through a stripling's arm and sank into the forehead of the Philistine.

Resolved, That, in pursuance of this spirit, we hail with joy the recent proclamation of our Chief Magistrate, declaring freedom on the 1st day of January next to the slaves in all the then disloyal States, and say to him, as the people said to Ezra, "Arise, for the matter belongeth unto thee; we also will be with thee: be of good courage, and do it."

Resolved, That in the name of Liberty, which we love, in the name of Peace, which we would make enduring, in the name of Humanity and of Religion, whose kindred hopes are blended, we protest against any compromise with rebellion; and for the maintenance of the war on such a basis, whether for a longer or a shorter period, we pledge, in addition to our prayers, our "lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor."

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to the President and his advisers, with assurances of the honor in which, as Christians, we hold them, and with our solemn entreaty that no one of them will, in the discharge of duties however faithful for his country, neglect the interests of his own personal salvation.

The following reply was received from Mr. Seward: -

Washington, October 18, 1962.

To the Philadelphia Baptist Association: -

Gentlemen: - I have the honor to acknowledge for the other heads of Departments, as well as in my own hehalf, the reception of the resolutions which were adopted by your venerable Association during the last week, and to assure you of our high appreciation of the personal kindness, patriotic fervor, and religious devotion which pervade their important proceedings. You seem, gentlemen, to have wisely borne in mind, what is too often forgotten, that any Government - especially a republican one - cannot be expected to rise above the virtue of the people over whom it presides. Government is always dependent on the support of the nation from whom it derives all its powers and all its forces, and the inspiration which can give it courage, energy, and resolution can come only from the innermost heart of the country which it is required to lead or to save. It is indeed possible for an administration in this country to conceive and perfect policies which would be beneficent, but it could not carry them into effect without the public consent; for the first instruction which the statesman derives from experience is that he must do, in every case, not what he wishes, but what he can.

In reviewing the history of our country, we find many instances in which it is apparent that grave errors have been committed by the Government, but candor will oblige us to own that heretofore the people have always had substantially the very kind of administration which they at the time desired and preferred. Political, moral, and religious teachers exercise the greatest influence in forming and directing popular sentiments and resolutions. Do you, therefore, gentlemen, persevere in the inculcation of the principles and sentiments which you have expressed in your recent proceedings, and rest assured that, if the national magnanimity shall be found equal to the crisis through which the country is passing, no efforts on the part of the adininistration will be spared to bring about a peace without a loss of any part of the national territories or the sacrifice of any of the constitutional safeguards of civil or religious liberty. I need hardly say that the satisfaction which will attend that result will be immeasurably increased if it shall be found also that in the operations which shall have produced it humanity shall have gained new and important advantages. Commending ourselves to your prayers, and to the prayers of all who desire the welfare of our country and of mankind, I tender you the sincere thanks of my associates, with whom I have the honor to remain, gentlemen,

Your very obedient servant,

William H. Seward.

The State Baptist Convention of Ohio, October, 1862, passed the following resolutions, prepared by Rev. Dr. M. Stone: -

"Whereas the powers that be are ordained of God, and he that resisteth the power resisteth the ordinance of God," and is threatened with damnation: therefore, be it

Resolved, 1. That it is our right and duty, as a body of Christian citizens, in these times of rebellion against our beneficent Government, to tender our hearty sympathy and support to those who are intrusted with it.

Resolved, 2. That we will accord a cheerful and earnest support to our rulers and our armies in their endeavors to crush the wicked rebellion, until that object shall be accomplished and peace and order restored; and that we will offer up our prayers and supplications daily to the sovereign Disposer of events for his interposition in this behalf.

Resolved, 3. That since the present terrible civil war was begun by our enemies, without any just cause or provocation, for the purpose of extending, strengthening, and perpetuating the wicked institution of slavery, against the moral sense of the civilized world, and though in the beginning we had no intention of interfering with the institutions of the rebellious States, yet the progress of the war clearly indicates the purpose of God to be the summary extinction of slavery, therefore we approve the late proclamation of liberty of our President, and we will sustain him in carrying out that proclamation till our beloved country shall be purged of the accursed blot, both the cause of the war and the chief means in our enemy's hands of carrying it on, and will stand by our country in the adoption of such further measures as may be necessary to put an end to this great rebellion.

3.48) Seneca Baptist Association of New York, September, 1862.

That, while we deplore the evils of the war, we still believe that the interests of humanity, freedom, and religion require its prosecution until the rebellion is utterly crushed out.

That, as slavery has taken the sword, we should therefore let it perish by the sword, being absolved from whatever legal or moral obligations we may have been under to support it.

That we recognize in the scenes of blood now being enacted, the righteous judgments of God for our sins. It therefore becomes us to bow in humility and penitence, lest iniquity be our ruin.

That the recent proclamation of the President is but a step in the order of Providence, necessitated by the logic of events. We therefore accept it, praying that the same Providence will make it a sure proclamation for liberty.

That we cherish in our memories and prayers our brethren and friends upon the field, making incessant eflfort to promote their spiritual welfare, and trusting in God for their protection.

At the Baptist State Convention, October 7, 1862, in Ithaca, the Committee on the State of the Country made the following report, which was adopted unanimously: -

Whereas the civil war which was in progress in our country at our last annual meeting is still in existence, threatening the destruction of our Government, with all the precious interests it involves: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That, as a religious body, we deem it our duty to cherish and manifest the deepest sympathy for the preservation and perpetuity of a Government which protects us in the great work of Christian oivilization.

Resolved, 2. That, in our opinion, the history of civil governments furnishes no example of more audacious wickedness than is exhibited by the rebellion which has been inaugurated against the free government framed by our fathers and so eminently in harmony with the conscious and obvious rights of man.

Resolved, 3. That while we see, with the profoundest sorrow, thousands of husbands, fathers, brothers, and sons falling on the battle-field, considering the interests to be preserved and transmitted to future generations, we cannot regard the sacrifice of treasure and of life too much for the object to be secured.

Resolved, 4. That as human slavery in the Southern portion of our country is, in our judgment, the procuring cause of the rebellion now raging among us, having been proclaimed as the corner-stone of the rebellion and as the institution for which they are fighting, as Christian men and citizens we fully and heartily endorse the recent proclamation of the President of the United States, declaring forever free all slaves in the rebel States on the 1st of January, 1863.

Resolved, 5. That the spirit of the age, the safety of the country, and the laws of God require that among the results of the present bloody war shall be found the entire removal of that relic of barbarism, that bane and shame of the nation, American slavery, and that the banner of freedom float triumphantly and truthfully over all the land.

Resolved, 6. That the foregoing preamble and resolutions be signed by the officer's of the Convention, and transmitted to the President of the United States.

3.49) The Pennsylvania State Convention of the Baptist Churches, November, 1862.

Resolved, That this Convention, representing forty thousand of the citizens of Pennsylvania, mindful, in the present national crisis, of our own solemn duties to our country and our God, hereby declare our profound conviction of the intimate relation there is between the cause of human liberty and the cause of pure religion, and also our set purpose, as citizens, as Christians, and as Christian ministers, to employ our whole influence in supporting the supremacy of our national Constitution against all enemies whatever.

Resolved, That as the institution of slavery stands before the world as the confessed feeding source of the present mighty and wicked rebellion against our national Constitution, we most heartily approve of the President's proclamation of emancipation, without modification in substance and without change of time in its execution.

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions, duly authenticated, be forwarded to the President of the United States.

The two following letters are in answer to resolutions which the author was not able to obtain.

Department of State, September 29, 1862.

To the West New Jersey Baptist Association.

Reverend Gentlemen: - The resolutions concerning the state of public affairs which you have transmitted to me have been communicated to the President of the United States. I am instructed by him to reply that he accepts with the most sincere and grateful emotions the pledges they offer of all the magnanimous endeavors and all the vigorous efforts which the emergencies of the country demand. The President desires, also, that you may be well assured that, so far as it belongs to him, no vigor and no perseverance shall be wanting to suppress the existing insurrection and to preserve and maintain the union of the States and the integrity of the country. You may further rest assured that the President is looking for a restoration of peace on no other basis than that of the unconditional acquiescence by the people of all the States in the constitutional authority of the Federal Government.

Whatever policy shall lead to that result will be pursued; whatever interest shall stand in the way of it will be disregarded.

The President is, moreover, especially sensible of the wisdom of your counsels in recommending the cultivation by the Government and people of the United States of a spirit of meekness, humiliation, and dependence on Almighty God, as an indispensable condition for obtaining that Divine aid and favor without which all human power, though directed to the wisest and most benevolent ends, is unavailing and worthless. In a time of public danger like this, a State, especially a republic, as you justly imply, ought to repress and expel all personal ambitions, jealousies, and asperities, and become one united, harmonious, loyal, and devotional people.     Your obedient servant,

William H. Seward.

 

Departmemt of State, Washington, October 6, 1862.

To the Congregational Welsh Association of Pennsylyania.

Reverend Gentlemen: - I have had the honor to receive the resolutions which you have adopted; and, in compliance with your request, I have submitted them to the consideration of the President of the United States.

The President entertains a lively gratitude for the assurances you have given him of your loyalty to the United States and your solicitude for the safety of our free institutions, the confidence you have reposed in him, and your sympathy with him in the discharge of responsibilities whicli have devolved upon the Government. The President directs me to assure you that wherever the Constitution of the United States leads him, in that path he will move as steadily as shall be possible, rejoicing with yourselves whenever it opens the way to an amelioration of the condition of any portion of our fellow-men, while the country is escaping from the dangers of revolution. The President is deeply touched by your sympathies with those of our fellow-citizens who suffer captivity or disease, and the grief with which you lament those who fall in defence of the country and humanity; and he invokes the prayers of all devotional mien that these precious sufferings may not be altogether lost, but may be overruled by our heavenly Father to the advancement of peace on earth and good will to all men.

I have the honor to be,

Reverend gentlemen,

Your obedient servant,

William H. Seward.

3.50) Baptist Convention of the State of Massachusetts, October, 1862.

Resolved, That, in the present terrible national crisis in which we are involved by the unreasonable and wicked insurrection of disloyal men in the interest of a stupendous system of oppression, we hail with pleasure the proclamation of the President of the United States in favor of emancipation, and the acts of harmony therewith, as a favorable indication of Divine Providence and as an important instrumentality for the suppression of the rebellion.

Resolved, That in the fearful and wide-spread conflict now raging in bur land we regard the interests of civil and religious liberty throughout the world for future ages as deeply involved, and therefore regard it as the solemn duty of every man to sustain the Government to the whole extent of his ability.

Resolved, That, for the speedy and complete suppression of the rebellion, we deem it eminently important that the loyal portion of the nation, holding in abeyance all minor issues, should remain united and present an unbroken front against the insurgents, and should therefore put forth all their energies to prevent any division of the people in the loyal States which shall weaken their support of the President in the execution of his avowed policy.

Resolved, That whilst we mourn over our individual and national sins, and acknowledge the justice of Almighty God in the severe affliction which has befallen us, we also recognize his Divine sovereignty, that as the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, so deliverance from our present troubles can be effected only through his mighty and beneficent agency, for which it becomes us to offer earnest and persevering prayer.

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions, signed by the President and Secretary of this Convention, be forwarded to the President of the United States as expressive of our approval of his policy in the prosecution of the war, and as a pledge of our sympathy, prayers, and cooperation with him in his arduous efforts to restore the Union and bring back to us national peace and prosperity.

3.51) The New-School Synod of Wabash, Indiana, October, 1862.

Whereas a giant rebellion is still struggling to plunge its dagger into the heart of our beloved country, that it may establish an empire of slavery on the ruins of our freedom; and

Whereas our national Government is manfully struggling to crush this rebellion and annihilate its power: therefore.

Resolved, 1. That we do hereby express our unfaltering loyalty to the Government under which we live, and do pledge all our means of influence, and our personal resources, for the preservation of the national existence.

Resolved, 2. That we tender to the President of the United States our cordial esteem and sympathy, and we will not cease to pray that God may give to him wisdom and courage and faith adequate to the responsibilities of his position, and to the people patriotism equal to the exigencies of the national peril.

Resolved, 3. That while we bow in humble and sorrowful acknowledgment of our national sins that have provoked God's displeasure, and deeply sympathize with the bereaved who have lost life-treasures and heart-treasures for the salvation of the nation, we yet cherish an unwavering faith in God, confirmed by the orderings of his providence and the conquests of his truth in the progress of this struggle, that he is disciplining us for a nobler national life in order to a wider national usefulness and prosperity; and we give thanks to God for the Executive proclamation of freedom, which we trust may sound the death-knell of slavery to the whole human race.

3.52) Western Reserve Synod of Ohio (New-School), October, 1862.

While we are deliberating for the interests of that kingdom "which is peace," we are reminded that the war begun by a wicked rebellion still rages in the land.

The Synod, at their last annual meeting, adopted a carefully prepared report upon the state of the country, in which they bore testimony against the prime cause of the war, and pledged their support of the Government in its efforts to re-establish its authority over the States in revolt. Since that time the conflict has assumed larger proportions, and gathered to itself greater moral interest. Battles have been fought; new armies have been sent into the field; and legislation, and the supreme military power, have made, and have foreshadowed, important changes in the political and social condition of the slave. These events have come to pass under the wise government of the Ruler of the nations. God has made himself known by acts of righteousness, and by that wonderful overruling which has wrought in thoughtful minds the belief that the exodus of the bondman is at hand.

It is fitting, then, that this body again give expression to their convictions in regard to the character of the war, and the duty of Christian citizens in the emergencies which the progress of events has forced upon the nation: therefore,

1. We reaffirm our unalterable belief that the cause of the Government and of the loyal States is a just one; we express our sympathy with the President of the United States in his position of peculiar trial and grave responsibility; and we exhort all Christians within the bounds of the Synod to pray without ceasing that God will give to him wisdom and strength for the right performance of his high duties.

2. Believing that Providence is shaping events for the extirpation of slavery from the land, we heartily welcome the proclamation of emancipation by the President. Receiving it as a measure of military necessity, we yet gratefully record our admiration of that Divine government which makes this measure harmonize with the demands of justice and the requirements of Christian love; and we pledge all our influence in support of a policy so eminently wise and just.

3. Inasmuch as we believe God is punishing the nation for its sins, and is seeking its reformation, we earnestly desire that the army and navy, the exponents and the arms of the nation's strength, may be purified from all vices and crimes which may provoke the Divine displeasure and render them unfit instruments for the execution of the Divine purposes. Therefore, we lament that so much intemperance, and profanity, and neglect of the Sabbath, and indulgence of brutal and revengeful passions, exist in these branches of the public service, and especially that so many who are intrusted with places of command are chargeable with these grave offences. And we earnestly pray those who have the requisite authority to remove from such places all those who thus dishonor God and injure the national cause.

3.53) The New-School Presbyterian Synod of Illinois, October, 1862.

1. The Synod of Illinois continues to sympathize with the Government of the United States in its efforts to put down rebellion and restore the supremacy of the Constitution and laws.

2. We recognize the desolations of civil war as tokens of the displeasure of God kindled against us on account of our sins.

3. The principles of the word of God and the history of God's dealings with other nations forbid us to hope for the turning away of his wrath without national humiliation, confession, and repentance.

4. In this view, we rejoice and give thanks to the great God, in whose hands are the hearts of kings and presidents, that he has inspired the President of the United States to issue that grand proclamation which is at once (1) a war measure which strikes at the very life of the rebellion, and also (2) an act of national justice which will, we trust, go far to propitiate the wrath of God.

5. As slavery and its champions have forced this war upon the country, we shall regard it as a signal illustration of God's retributive justice if he shall cause the war to result in the utter extirpation of slavery and in the humiliation of all who have sought or helped to perpetuate or extend it. The prospect that we may become in truth "the land of the free" - one people, from ocean to ocean, and from the lakes to the gulf - is a prospect grand enough to inspire the sublimest hopes and nerve us to heroic endurance of the horrors of war.

6. To our brave defenders in the field, to the sick and wounded in our camps and hospitals, to those who languish in the prisons of the enemy, to the loyal men and women whom war has driven from their sanctuaries and their homes, to all those among us who mourn the loss of dear ones fallen as martyrs in our holy cause, we extend assurances of our sympathy and of a constant remembrance in our prayers.

7. We believe it to be the duty of all good men to frown upon all attempts to weaken confidence in the Government, or to divide and distract the loyal people of the country. The efforts of scheming politicians and selfish demagogues, and of an unprincipled or disloyal newspaper press, to give aid and comfort to the rebellion by dividing our people, and raising up a reactionary party that would sell justice and liberty and barter away all that is most sacred in our institutions for the sake of the personal aggrandizement of a treacherous and short-lived peace,  ought to receive the indignant condemnation of all who fear God and love justice. None but a righteous peace can be permanent.

8. We solemnly declare it as our conviction that this war should be prosecuted with the utmost vigor until every traitor lays down his arms, until every State returns to its allegiance, and until all the rights guaranteed by the Constitution, and especially the rights of free labor, free thought, free speech, free press, and free worship shall be secured to every loyal citizen of the republic.

9. We enjoin upon our ministers and elders the duty of instructing the people in the great first principles of the Bible concerning the conditions of God's favor to nations, and we exhort them to expound and enforce the teachings of the gospel concerning the brotherhood of men and the inalienable right of every man made in the image of God to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It is the disregard of these principles and teachings which has brought all our woes upon us; it is only by a return to them and by their hearty observance that we can hope for enduring national peace and prosperity.

10. We exhort all our people to personal humiliation and repentance, to earnest prayer, to constant vigilance, and to a cheerful endurance of the burdens of taxation, and, if needs be, of the perils of the camp and the field.

11. Finally, we repeat, with the emphasis of convictions strengthened and emotions intensified by a year of conflict, the language with which we closed our action on this subject one year ago, - viz.:

We urge all the members of our churches to sustain with a generous confidence the Government and all who do its bidding, and cherish such a view of the momentous importance and sacredness of our cause that they shall bear with cheerfulness all the sacrifices which the war imposes, and, whether it be long or short, cheerfully pour out, if needs be, the last ounce of gold and the last drop of blood to bring it to a righteous issue.

3.54) The Upper Wabash Conference of the United Brethren Church, September, 1862.

Whereas the Church of the United Brethren in Christ is anti-slavery in principle, as set forth in Sec. 22, Dis.; and whereas there are found among us members who, in this dark hour of our country's peril, are sympathizing with rebellion by opposing those who stand to advocate and defend the anti-slavery principles of the Church, by refusing them their support: therefore,

Resolved, That we earnestly admonish those who may be found among us operating against the spirit, letter, and intent of Discipline (Sec. 22) on slavery, to consider the duty they owe to God, their country, and the Church of their choice, to cease to manifest a spirit so contrary to the teaching of the Church on this subject.

Resolved, That it be enjoined on the circuit preachers to labor in the spirit of meekness with those who are found acting in opposition to the spirit of the gospel on this subject, and strive to bring them to a sense of their obligations, and, should they refuse to desist from such a course, to expel them from the Church.

Resolved, That we heartily sympathize with our Government in striving to maintain the principles of civil and religious liberty against slavery and rebellion, and pledge to it our prayers, our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor; and should there be found any among us who cannot respond to these sentiments, or who are found sympathizing with traitors in any respect whatever, we admonish them, in the spirit of brotherly love, to desist from such a course, or cease to remain in membership with us.

3.55) The Central Methodist Conference of Ohio, April, 1863.

Resolved, That, in the judgment of this Conference, the declaration of war, the marshalling of arms, the desolation and confiscation of property, the robbery on land and the piracy on sea, the loss of life, the blood that has already drenched the soil of Virginia and Missouri, are all attributable to slavery as a cause.

Resolved, That, as the secessionists have forfeited, by rebellion, all rights under the Constitution and laws, their slaves have a right to go free; and we hope the whole policy of the Government will be shaped to this result.

Resolved, That, in the judgment of this Conference, the Proclamation of General Fremont, declaring the emancipation of the slaves of all rebels against the Government, is of paramount importance in the present crisis, and meets the hearty approval of this body of ministers, and, we believe, of all undeluded friends of the Government.

Resolved, That we shall never cease to pray for our armies and navy now engaged in war in defence of our country; and we shall look forward with hope and faith, when our hills and valleys shall shout, and our mountains shall echo back the glad response, Universal emancipation from slavery and rebellion!

3.56)  The New York Methodist Episcopal Conference, April, 1863.

Whereas the Southern rebellion, gigantic in its proportions and unparalleled in its wickedness, continues to imperil the existence of this republic; and

Whereas our national life is intimately identified not only with the cause of civil and religious liberty in the world, but also with the best interests of the kingdom of Christ, - for, so far as we may judge, our nation is a choice and chosen instrument for the extension and establishment of that kingdom on the earth; and

Whereas in a crisis like the present it is the solemn duty of every citizen to rally to the support of a cause so unspeakably important and glorious: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That, as members and ministers of the Methodist Episcopal Church within the bounds of the New York Annual Conference, we cheerfully renew our vows of uncompromising and unconditional loyalty to the United States of America, a nationality we are proud to acknowledge, and resolved, with the blessing of Heaven, to maintain.

2. That it is our duty, enforced alike by the word of God and our Book of Discipline, to submit to and co-operate with the regularly constituted civil authorities, and to enjoin the same upon our people.

3. That while we do not deny, but rather recognize and defend, the right of our people to discuss the measures and policy of the Government, at the same time we would counsel that, in the present critical condition of public affairs, this right is to be exercised with great forbearance, caution, and prudence.

4. That the conduct of those who, influenced by political affinities or Southern sympathies, and under the pretext of discriminating between the Administration and the Government, throw themselves in the path of every warlike measure, is, in our view, a covert treason, which has the malignity, without the manliness, of those who have arrayed themselves in open hostility to our liberties, and is deserving of our sternest denunciations and our most determined opposition.

5. That slavery is an evil incompatible in its spirit and practice with the principles of Christianity, with republican institutions, with the Peace and prosperity of the country, and with the traditions, doctrines, and discipline of our Church; and our long and anxious inquiry, What shall be done for its extirpation? has been singularly answered by Divine Providence, which has given to Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, the power and the disposition to issue a proclamation guaranteeing the boon of freedom to millions of Southern bond-men.

6. That we heartily concur in this proclamation, as indicating the righteousness of our cause, securing the sympathies of the liberty-loving the world over, and, above all, insuring the approbation of the Universal Father, who is invariably on the side of justice and freedom.

7. That we find abundant reason for gratitude and encouragement in the recent revival of the nation's patriotism, in the maintenance of the public credit, in the change of public opinion abroad, especially in England, and in the gradual, but we trust sure, progress of our arms.

8. That we cordially accept the President's recommendation to observe the 30th day of the present month as a season of solemn fasting and prayer, and that, assembling in our various places of worship, we will humble ourselves, and earnestly supplicate the great Ruler of Nations to forgive our national offences, to guide, sustain, and bless our public rulers, to look on our army and navy mercifully, giving success to our arms, so that this infamous rebellion may be speedily crushed, and peace, at once righteous and permanent, may return to smile on our American heritage.

9. That our interest and sympathy for those who represent us in the field continue unabated; and that to all those who are suffering in consequence of the havoc or desolation of this terrible war we offer our sincerest sympathies and our Christian condolence.

10. That a copy of these resolutions be transmitted to the President of the United States, and that they be published in "The Christian Advocate and Journal."

3.57) East Baltimore Conference, March, 1863.

Whereas the war which has been devastating our beloved land for the past two years still continues, and whereas silence might be construed into indifference in such a crisis: therefore,

Resolved, By the East Baltimore Conference, in Conference assembled, that we reaffirm our loyalty to the Government, and our most unflinching devotion to our country in the hour of her peril.

3.58) The Baptist Association of Illinois, June, 1863.

In the midst of many dangers and reverses which have overtaken our arms during the past year, we yet have great reason for thankfulness, not only for important victories vouchsafed to us, but for a far juster conception, on the part of the masses of the people, of the great moral issues involved in the struggle. We bless God that he has taught us by the rod of disaster that there can be no peace until the claims of Him whose right it is to reign shall be recognized and obeyed.

We cordially support the administration in their efforts to put down the rebellion, and hail with joy the proclamation of emancipation, believing that when we as a nation shall "keep the fast which God hath chosen," "that our light shall break forth as the morning, and our health shall spring forth speedily."

We recognize human slavery now, as we have heretofore done, to be the cause of the war and its kindred evils, and we reiterate our convictions that there can be no peace and prosperity in the nation until it is destroyed.

We feel that the hope of our country in the suppression of treason in the revolted States, and in our midst, lies not merely in military successes or in military orders, but in the incorruptible virtue and the profound devotion of the people to the principles of the glorious gospel of the blessed God.

We deeply sympathize with our brethren who have gone to fight the battles of our country, with such as are sick and wounded in the hospitals, and with those who have been bereaved because their loved ones have been stricken by the hand of death while connected with the army. We pledge to our brave soldiers everywhere our sympathies, our prayers, and our utmost efforts that they may be sustained in all their troubles, and that they may be abundantly successful in the great task committed to their hands.

3.59) The Conference of the Western Unitarian Association, held at Toledo, Ohio, June, 1863.

Whereas our allegiance to the kingdom of God requires of us loyalty to every righteous authority on earth: therefore,

Resolved, That we give to the President of the United States, and to all who are charged with the guidance and defence of our nation in its present terrible struggle for the preservation of liberty, public order, and Christian civilization, against the powerful wickedness of treason and rebellion, the assurance of our cordial sympathy and steady support, and that we will cheerfully continue to share any and all needful burdens and sacrifices in the holy cause of our country.

Resolved, That we hail with gratitude and hope the rapidly growing conviction among the loyal masses of our countrymen that the existence of human slavery is inconsistent with the national safety and honor, as it is inconsistent with natural right and justice, and that we ask of the Government a thorough and vigorous enforcement of the policy of emancipation, as necessary alike to military success, to lasting peace, and to the just supremacy of the Constitution over all the land.

3.60) Presbytery of St. Louis (Old-School), June, 1863.

Whereas violent resistance to the authority of civil government, without adequate cause, is, by the teaching of Scripture and the standards of the Presbyterian Church, a sin against God; and whereas our fellow-citizens now in rebellion against our national and State Governments, among whom are found a number of our own church-members, have never experienced any wrong or grievance at the hands of those in authority that could justify a resort to armed resistance to our established Government; and whereas it is the duty of those who rule in the Church to guide the flock in the way of truth and righteousness and warn them against error and sin: therefore,

Resolved, That we, the Presbytery of St. Louis, acting upon a sense of duty to the churches over which we rule, do hereby earnestly entreat and warn all members of our churches to abstain from all participation in the present rebellion, or from giving countenance and encouragement thereto by word or deed, as such participation, countenance, or encouragement involves sin against God, and will expose those engaged therein to the penalties of ecclesiastical discipline.

3.61) Presbytery of Ripley, Ohio, April, 1863.

Resolved, 1. That while the terrible judgments of God are inflicted upon the Government and people, there should be universal reformation. That all sinful practices should be abandoned, and that all systems of oppression and wrong should be abolished. Among these are intemperance, Sabbath-breaking, and slavery. These have been the most prominent sins of the nation.

2. That we recommend to the churches under our care to observe carefully the fast proclaimed by the President, to be kept on the 30th day of the present month.

3. That, as civil government is an ordinance of God, it is the duty of all persons to obey civil magistrates in all things that do not contravene the law of God.

4. That, upon full investigation, it is evident that the Government inflicted no wrong upon the slaveholding States, and that the rebellion of the slave power against the Government is the most enormous and criminal known to the world, and that the present calamitous war has been forced upon the Government, and, consequently, that it is the duty of all citizens to sustain the administration in suppressing the rebellion and the slaveholding combination by which it was instigated.

5. That disloyalty to the Government, as it tends to anarchy, robbery, and murder, is one of the highest crimes against God and man: consequently, that class of men in the free States who sympathize with the rebels of the South, oppose the administration, and aim to sustain the slave system, which has caused the murder of hundreds of thousands of the most brave and noble men of the nation, and has brought upon the whole country the most terrible calamities, are among the most depraved, dangerous, and abominably wicked men existing on the earth.

3.62) The General Convention of Congregational Ministers and Churches of Vermont, June, 1863.

Whereas our beloved country continues to be the scene of an unprincipled and wicked rebellion, the object of which, as openly avowed by its leaders, is the overthrow of the Government established by the wisdom, the toils, and the sacrifices of our fathers, the dismemberment of the Union, and the establishment within our limits of a Confederacy founded upon the enormous wrong and outrage of human slavery: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That we reaffirm the principles and declarations relating to this subject, as set forth in the last meeting of the Convention; solemnly renewing our pledge of fidelity to the Government in the present fearful crisis, and of our unwavering support by all lawful means at our command.

Resolved, 2. That as "the powers that be are ordained of God" and submission to them is expressly required by the Divine will, and as the existing administration of our Government, rightfully appointed, constitute for us "the powers that be" for lawful government, we recognise the imperative duty of all classes of citizens to render to the administration, striving in its appropriate sphere to put down the rebellion, their hearty support and co-operation, such duty being involved in their allegiance to God.

Resolved, 3. That we cordially approve of the proclamation of emancipation, issued as a war measure by the President of the United States, whereby millions of the enslaved are declared free, and promise is given that, as a nation, by the dreadful discipline of war, we are ere long to come to the realization of the truth so prominently set forth in the Declaration of Independence, that all men are equally entitled to the privileges of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." And we rejoice to recognize the rapidly increasing favor with which the afore-said proclamation is regarded throughout the loyal States of the Union, and by many who at first doubted its expediency.

Resolved, 4. That we highly commend the measures which have been adopted for the comfort and instruction of the slaves who, by means of the war and the President's proclamation, have availed themselves of the priceless boon of freedom; thus laying a foundation for their elevation to all that ennobles and blesses our common humanity.

Resolved, 5. That we tender the expression of our admiration and thanks to our soldiers who, at their country's call, with patriotic ardor, rushed to the field of danger to struggle for our national life. We assure them that whatever we can do for their comfort in camp and hospital shall be done; that when permitted to return to their loved homes, they will receive a hearty welcome; and those who shall have sacrificed life in our army and navy in the noble cause will long live in our grateful remembrance. And we tender our warmest sympathy to all the families who, by reason of this wicked rebellion, are mourning for fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons whose faces they see on earth no more.

Resolved, 6. That we commend the President of the United States, his Cabinet, and all to whom great public trusts are committed, to the special Divine guidance; that we acknowledge God's justice in our national calamities, and would humble ourselves under his mighty hand; and we earnestly beseech the God of our fathers that, instructed and purified by the things which we suffer, we may as a nation be established in truth and righteousness, and become indeed a light and blessing to the world.

The annual convention of the American Baptist Missionary Union held its forty-ninth anniversary, at Cleveland, Ohio, May, 1863, and passed the following paper. The President of the meeting was Hon. Ira Harris, Senator in Congress from New York.

The Committee appointed to prepare resolutions on the state of the country reported, through its chairman, Rev. Dr. Dowling, the following: -

Whereas the officers and members of the American Baptist Missionary Union, at their last annual meeting in May, 1862, unanimously adopted a series of resolutions characterizing "the war now waged by the national Government to put down the unprovoked and wicked rebellion that has risen against it, and to establish anew the reign of order and of law, as a most righteous and holy one, sanctioned alike by God and all right-thinking men," and also expressive of their conviction that "the principal cause and origin of this attempt to destroy the Government has been the institution of slavery; and that a safe, solid, and lasting peace cannot be expected short of its complete overthrow:" therefore,

Resolved, That the developments of the year since elapsed, in connection with this attempt to destroy the best Government on earth, have tended only to deepen our conviction of the truth of the sentiments which we then expressed, and which we now and here solemnly reiterate and reaffirm.

Resolved, That the authors, aiders, and abettors of this slaveholders' rebellion, in their desperate efforts to nationalize the institution of slavery and to extend its despotic sway throughout the land, have themselves inflicted on that institution a series of most terrible and fatal and suicidal blows, from which, we believe, it can never recover, and they have themselves thus fixed its destiny and hastened its doom; and that, for thus overruling what appeared at first to be a terrible national calamity, to the production of results so unexpected and glorious, our gratitude and adoration are due to that wonder-working God who still "maketh the wrath of man to praise him, while the remainder of that wrath he restrains." - Psalm lxxvi. 10.

Resolved, That in the recent acts of Congress, abolishing slavery forever in the District of Columbia and the Territories, and in the noble proclamation of the President of the United States, declaring freedom to the slave in States in rebellion we see cause for congratulation and joy, and we think we behold the dawn of that glorious day when, as in Israel's ancient jubilee, "liberty shall be proclaimed throughout all the land, unto all the inhabitants thereof." - Leviticus xxv. 10.

Resolved, That as American Christians we rejoice in the growing sympathy of the enlightened portion of our Christian brethren in Great Britain and other European nations with the Government and people of the United States in this righteous war; and that, while we cordially thank our friends across the water for all expressions of their confidence and approval, we embrace this opportunity of assuring them that, within our judgment, the United States possesses within herself the means, the men, and the courage necessary for the suppression of this rebellion, and that, while we ask no assistance from other nations, we will brook no intervention or interference with our national affairs while engaged in this arduous struggle, which we believe will soon be completely successful in utterly suppressing and subduing this rebellion.

Resolved, That we hereby pledge ourselves as ministers, and as Christians and patriots, to sustain the President of the United States and his associates in the administration by our prayers, our influence, and our personal sacrifices, till this rebellion shall be subdued, and peace, upon the basis of justice, freedom, and Union, shall be again restored.

3.63) Missionaries on the Rebellion.

At the twenty-third annual meeting of the Mission to Western Turkey, the Rev. William Goodell, D.D., the Rev. William G. Schauffler, D.D., and the Rev. Cyrus Hamlin, D.D., were appointed a committee to draft resolutions on the state of our country. They reported the following, which were unanimously adopted by the mission:

Constantinople, May 30, 1863.

Resolved, 1. That, although we have been many years absent from our native land, yet we entertain the most loyal feelings towards our Government, and assure the President of our being in full sympathy with him, and with all loyal citizens in their efforts to suppress the great rebellion.

2. That, having given up to this cause some of our best and most promising sons, and one of our former missionary associates having fallen a sacrifice to it (Rev. Mr. Dunmore, near Helena, Arkansas), we are still ready for any further needed sacrifices for our country, and we earnestly pray that God may inspire all our fellow-citizens with true Christian patriotism, to smite this rebellion with "the arrow of the Lord's deliverance," not, as Joash, thrice, but "five or six times" until it is utterly subdued.

3. That we recognize the righteous judgment of God in calling our beloved country to this reckoning of blood for the national sins of slavery, oppression, greed, and political corruption in high places, and that we regard national repentance, and the abandonment of these and other sins characterizing us as a people, as the only way to recover national safety and prosperity.

4. That whereas God has vindicated in so remarkable a manner, and before an attentive world, his glorious justice and mercy in pleading the cause of four millions of down-trodden, degraded, and despised slaves;

And whereas the Government has abolished slavery in the District of Columbia, and prohibited the same in all the Territories, and the President, as commander-in-chief, has issued his proclamation of freedom to the slaves of rebels; and whereas the prejudices so long cherished in our country by the white population against the colored race are evidently yielding to the imperious pressure of providential circumstances under the Divine discipline administered to our nation;

Therefore it is the clearest duty of all loyal citizens to fall in with this wonderful march of freedom and providence, and to count no sacrifices too dear in order to attain a solid peace upon the basis of universal freedom and equal rights.

5. That the courage, fidelity, sagacity, patient endurance, and absence of cruelty and vindictiveness, exhibited so generally by the colored race, under exasperating wrongs hardly paralleled in history, entitle it to the respect and sympathy of the civilized world.

6. That the distinct recognition which the President, Senate, and many officers of the army and navy have made of God and his law, of the Sabbath, and the necessity of prayer, is to us a matter of devout gratitude.

7. That it is our Christian duty to pray daily and earnestly for the President and his Cabinet, that they may have wisdom, energy, and firmness equal to this crisis; for the officers and soldiers of the army and navy, that they may do valiantly for the Lord of hosts; for the millions of distracted Africans, that they may show themselves to be men fighting for freedom and a home, and in abstaining from bloody and lawless retaliation of wrong; for the deluded people of the South, that they may speedily renounce the tyranny of the slave-lords; and for the bereaved families of fallen patriots.

And may the God of peace shortly bruise Satan under our feet, and redeem our souls from deceit and violence.

J. F. Pettibone, Chairman. 
Tillman C. Trowbridge, Secretary.

The following resolutions were passed at a State Sabbath-School Convention, Dayton, Ohio, May, 1863. They show the earnest Christian sympathy of Sabbath-schools throughout the nation with the country struggling with a gigantic rebellion, and were prepared and offered to the Convention by Rev. B. W. Chidlaw, a veteran in the cause of Sabbath-schools, and a faithful chaplain in the army.

Whereas our Sabbath-schools are so largely represented in the army and navy of our country, by our former associates in the Sabbath-school work, superintendents, teachers and scholars, now in the service, cheerfully and heroically bearing the burdens of duty and suffering, fighting for the flag, and living by the cross;

Resolved, 1. That the Ohio State Sabbath-School Convention, assembled in the city of Dayton, expresses its cordial greetings, and earnest sympathies with our brethren in arms.

2. That we urge upon every Sabbath-school at once to open and maintain a correspondence with its absent members, to cheer and encourage our loved ones in the camp, on the deck, or languishing in hospitals.

3. That we earnestly desire that all the children of our brave soldiers and noble sailors should be gathered into the Sabbath-school fold and taught the way of salvation.

4. That we would encourage all who at home have drilled in the Sabbath-school army and studied the heavenly tactics, to fall into line, and establish a Sabbath-school in the camp, and keep its banner waving for the spiritual benefit of themselves and comrades.

3.64) The Reformed Presbyterian Church, December, 1862.

The Rev. A. M. Milligan, of New Alexandria, Pennsylvania, and the Rev. J. R. W. Sloane, of New York, waited upon the President of the United States, and, on behalf of the Reformed Presbyterian (Old-School Covenanter) Church in the United States, presented to him the following address: -

3.64.1) To His Excellency Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States.

We visit you, Mr. President, as the representatives of the Reformed Presbyterian, or, as it is frequently termed, "Scotch Covenanter" Church, - a church whose sacrifices and sufferings in the cause of civil and religious liberty are a part of the world's history, and to which we are indebted, no less than to the Puritans, for those inestimable privileges so largely enjoyed in the free States of this Union, and which, true to its high lineage and ancient spirit, does not hold within its pale a single secessionist or sympathizer with rebellion in these United States.

Our Church has unanimously declared, by the voice of her highest court, that the world has never seen a conflict in which right was more clearly wholly upon the one side, and wrong upon the other, than in the present struggle of this Government with the slaveholders' rebellion. She has also unanimously declared her determination to assist the Government, by all lawful means in her power, in its conflict with this atrocious conspiracy, until it be utterly overthrown and annihilated.

Profoundly impressed with the immense importance of the issues involved in this contest, and with the solemn responsibilities which rest upon the Chief Magistrate in this time of the nation's peril, our brethren have commissioned us to come and address you words of sympathy and encouragement; also, to express to you views which, in their judgment, have an important bearing upon the present condition of affairs in our beloved country, to congratulate you on what has already been accomplished in crushing rebellion, and to exhort you to persevere in the work until it has been finally completed.

Entertaining no shadow of doubt as to the entire justice of the cause in which the nation is embarked, we nevertheless consider the war a just judgment of Almighty God for the sin of rejecting his authority and enslaving our fellow-men, and are firmly persuaded that his wrath will not be appeased, and that no permanent peace will be attained, until his authority be recognized and the abomination that maketh desolate utterly extirpated.

As an anti-slavery Church of the most radical school, believing slavery to be a heinous and aggravated sin both against God and man, and to be placed in the same category with piracy, murder, adultery, and theft, it is our solemn conviction that God, by his word and providence, is calling the nation to immediate, unconditional, and universal emancipation. We hear his voice in these thunders of war, saying to us, "Let my people go." Nevertheless, we have hailed with delighted satisfaction the several steps which you have taken in the direction of emancipation; especially do we rejoice in your late proclamation declaring your intention to free the slaves in the rebel States on the 1st day of January, 1863, - an act which, when carried out, will give the death-blow to rebellion, strike the fetters from millions of bondmen, and secure for its author a place among the wisest of rulers and noblest benefactors of the race. Permit us, then, Mr. President, most respectfully, yet most earnestly, to urge upon you the importance of enforcing that proclamation to the utmost extent of that power with which you are vested. Let it be placed on the highest grounds of Christian justice and philanthropy; let it be declared to be an act of national repentance for long complicity with the guilt of slavery; permit nothing to tarnish the glory of the act or rob it of its sublime moral significance and grandeur, and it cannot fail to meet a hearty response in the conscience of the nation, and to secure infinite blessings to our distracted country. Let not the declaration of the immortal Burke be verified in this instance: - "Good works are commonly left in a rude and imperfect state, through the lame circumspection with which a timid prudence so frequently enervates beneficence. In doing good we are cold, languid, and sluggish, and of all things afraid of being too much in the right." We urge you, by every consideration drawn from the word of God and the present condition of our bleeding country, not to be moved from the path of duty on which you have so auspiciously entered, either by the threats or blandishments of the enemies of human progress, nor to permit this great act to lose its power through the fears of timid friends.

There is another point which we esteem of paramount importance, and to which we wish briefly to call your attention. The Constitution of the United States contains no acknowledgment of the authority of God, of his Christ, or of his law, as contained in the Holy Scriptures. This we deeply deplore as wholly inconsistent with all claims to be considered a Christian nation or to enjoy the protection and favor of God. The Lord Jesus Christ is above all earthly rulers. He is King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the one mediator between God and man, through whom alone either nations or individuals can secure the favor of the Most High. God is saying to us in these judgments, "Be wise now, therefore, ye kings; be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that trust in him. For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted."

This time appears to us most opportune for calling the nation to a recognition of the name and authority of God, to the claims of Him who will overturn, overturn, and overturn, until the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ. We indulge the hope, Mr. President, that you have been called, with your ardent love of liberty, your profound moral convictions manifested in your Sabbath proclamation and in your frequent declarations of dependence upon Divine Providence, to your present position of honor and influence, to free our beloved country from the curse of slavery and secure for it the favor of the great Ruler of the Universe. Shall we not now set the world an example of a Christian state, governed, not by the principles of mere political expediency, but acting under a sense of accountability to God and obedience to those laws of immutable morality which are binding alike upon nations and individuals?

Praying that you may be directed in your responsible position by Divine wisdom, that God may throw over you the shield of his protection, that we may soon see rebellion crushed, its cause removed, and our land become Immanuel's land, we subscribe ourselves, in behalf of the Reformed Presbyterian Church.

Yours, respectfully,

J. R. W. Sloan,
A. M. Milligan.

Messrs. Milligan and Sloane were introduced to the President by the Hon. John A. Bingham, M.C., of Ohio. They were very cordially received.

3.65) General Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, May, 1863.

Whereas there is a God revealed to man in Holy Scripture as the Creator, Preserver, Redeemer, and Moral Governor of the world; and

Whereas nations, as well as individuals, are the creatures of his power, the dependants of his providence, and the subjects of his authority; and

Whereas civil government is an ordinance of God, deriving its ultimate sanctions from his appointment and permission; and

Whereas it is the duty of all men to acknowledge the true God in all the relations they sustain; and

Whereas there is no specific mention of the authority of God in the Federal Constitution of the United States of America, the fundamental law of their existence as a nation; and

Whereas that Constitution and the Government which it organizes and defines are now undergoing the trial of a defensive civil war against a rebellion of a large portion of its own citizens and for its own national existence; and

Whereas the exigencies of the war have brought the authorities of the nation, civil and military, subordinate and supreme, to formal recognitions of the being, providence, and grace of God and of Jesus Christ bis Son, to an extent and with a distinctness such as the country has never witnessed before: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That in the judgment of this Synod the time is come for the proposal of such amendments to the Federal Constitution, in the way provided by itself, as will supply the omissions above referred to and secure a distinct recognition of the being and supremacy of the God of Divine revelation.

Resolved, 2. That in the judgment of Synod the amendments or additions to be made to the national Constitution should provide not only for a recognition of the existence and authority of God, but also of the mediatorial supremacy of Jesus Christ his Son, "the Prince of the kings of the earth and the Governor among the nations."

Resolved, 3. That, as several articles of the Federal Constitution have been and are construed in defence of slavery, Synod do earnestly ask the appropriate authorities to effect such change in them as will remove all ambiguity of phraseology on this subject, and make the Constitution, as its framers designed it to be, and as it really is in spirit, a document on the side of justice and liberty.

Resolved, 4. That Synod will petition the Congress of the United States, at its next meeting, to take measures for proposing and securing the amendments referred to, according to the due order.

Resolved, 5. That Synod will transmit a copy of such action as they may themselves adopt to the several religious bodies of the country, with the respectful request that they will take order on the subject.

Resolved, 6. That a committee be appointed, composed of a member from each of the Presbyteries in Synod, to whom this matter shall be referred, and whose duty it shall be to correspond with such Christian statesmen and other individuals of influence as they may find disposed to further this dutiful and momentous object.

3.66) The General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, May, 1863.

Whereas this General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in the United States of America cannot conceal from itself the lamentable truth that the very existence of our Church and nation is endangered by a gigantic rebellion against the rightful authority of the General Government of the United States, which rebellion has plunged the nation into the most dreadful civil war; and

Whereas the Church is the light of the world, and cannot withhold her testimony upon great moral and religious questions, and upon measures so deeply affecting the great interests of Christian civilization, without becoming justly chargeable with the sin of hiding her light under a bushel: therefore,

Resolved, That loyalty and obedience to the General Government, in the exercise of its legitimate authority, are the imperative Christian duties of every citizen, and that treason and rebellion are not mere political offences of one section against another, but heinous sins against God and his authority.

Resolved, That the interest of our common Christianity, and the cause of Christian civilization and national freedom throughout the world, impels us to hope and pray God (in whom is all our trust) that this unnatural rebellion may be put down, and the rightful authority of the General Government re-established and maintained.

Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with our fellow-countrymen and brethren who, in the midst of great temptation and sufferings, have stood firm in their devotion to God and their country, and also with those who have been driven, contrary to their judgment and wishes, into the ranks of the rebellion.

Resolved, That in this time of trial and darkness we re-endorse the preamble and resolution adopted by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church at Clarksville, Tennessee, on the 24th day of May, 1850, which are as follows: -

Whereas in the opinion of this General Assembly the preservation of the Union of these States is essential to the civil and religious liberty of the people, and it is regarded as proper and commendable in the Church, and more particularly in the branch which we represent (it having had its origin within the limits of the United States of America, and that soon after the blood of our Revolutionary fathers had ceased to flow, in that unequal contest through which they were successfully conducted by the strong arm of Jehovah), to express its devotion, on all suitable occasions, to the Government of their choice: therefore,

Resolved, That this General Assembly look with censure and disapprobation upon attempts, from any quarter, to dissolve this Union, and would regard the success of any such movement as exceedingly hazardous to the cause of religion as well as civil liberty. And this General Assembly would strongly recommend to all Christians to make it a subject of prayer to Almighty God to avert from our beloved country a catastrophe so direful and disastrous.

On the subject of American slavery, your committee submit that we should not view it as if it were about to be introduced, but as already in existence. We do not hesitate to declare that the introduction of slavery was an enormous crime, surpassed by few crimes that have disgraced the history of the world, and that there are at present great evils connected with it, and that we believe will more or less be connected with it while it exists. As to the remedy for these, the greatest and best minds of our country and the world have greatly differed and been much perplexed: therefore we would recommend to those who in the providence of God have been placed in connection with this institution, to continue prayerfully to study the word of God, to determine their duty in regard to their slaves and slavery; and to those who are not thus situated, that they exercise forbearance towards their brethren who are connected with slavery, - as the agitation of this subject at the present time in that part of the Church where slavery does not exist cannot result in any good, either to the master or slave. Touching the subject of American slavery as set forth in the memorial before us, your committee are not prepared to make the simple holding of slaves a test of church-membership, as they understand the memorial before them to propose.

Resolved, That we disavow any connection with, or sympathy for, the extreme measures of ultra-abolitionists, whose efforts, as we believe, have been, and are now, aimed at the destruction of our civil Government in order to abolish slavery. The committee would say, in conclusion, that the report herein submitted be agreed upon as a compromise measure, to unite the whole energies of our beloved Church and harmonize all our interests in the future, and to bind the entire membership of our Church, if possible, in close bonds of Christianity and fellowship.

3.67) The Presbyterian General Assembly (Old-School), May, 1863.

Your committee believe that the design of the mover of the original resolution and of the large majority who apparently are ready to vote for its adoption, is simply to call forth from the Assembly a significant token of our sympathy with this Government in its earnest efforts to suppress a rebellion that now for over two years has wickedly stood in armed resistance to lawful and beneficent authority. But as there are many among us who are undoubtedly patriotic, who are willing to express any righteous principle to which this Assembly should give utterance touching the subjection and attachment of an American citizen to the Union and its institutions, who love the flag of our country and rejoice at its successes by sea and by land, and who yet do not esteem this particular act a testimonial of loyalty entirely becoming to a church court, and as many of these brethren by the pressing of this vote would be placed in a false position, as if they did not love the Union, of which that flag is the beloved symbol, your committee deem themselves authorized by the subsequent direction of the Assembly to propose a different action to be adopted by this venerable court.

It is well known, on the one hand, that the General Assembly has ever been reluctant to repeat its testimonies upon important matters of public interest, but, having given utterance to carefully considered words, is content to abide calmly by its recorded deliverances. Nothing that this Assembly can say can more fully express the wickedness of the rebellion that has cost so much blood and treasure, can declare in plainer terms the guilt, before God and man, of those who have inaugurated, or maintained, or countenanced, for so little cause, the fratricidal strife, or can more impressively urge the solemn duty of Government to the lawful exercise of its authority, and of the people, each in his several place, to uphold the civil authorities, to the end that law and order may again reign throughout the entire nation, than these things have already been done by previous Assemblies. Nor need this body declare its solemn rebukes towards those ministers and members of the Church of Christ who have aided in bringing on and sustaining these immense calamities, or tender our kind sympathies to those who are overtaken by troubles they could not avoid, and who mourn and weep in secret places, not unseen by the Father's eye, or reprove all wilful disturbers of the public peace, or exhort those who are subject to our care to the careful discharge of every duty tending to uphold the free and beneficent Government under which we are, and this specially for conscience' sake and as in the sight of God, more than in regard to all these things the General Assembly has made its solemn deliverances since these troubles began.

But, on the other hand, it may be well for this General Assembly to reaffirm, as it now solemnly does, the great principles to which utterance has already been given. We do this the more readily because our beloved Church may thus be understood to take her deliberate and well-chosen stand, free from all imputations of haste or excitement; because we recognize an entire harmony between the duties of the citizen (especially in a land where the people frame their own laws and choose their own rulers) and the duties of the Christian to the Great Head of the Church; because, indeed, least of all persons should Christian citizens even seem to stand back from their duty when bad men press forward for mischief; and because a true love for our country in her times of peril should forbid us to withhold an expression of our attachment for the insufficient reason that we are not accustomed to repeat our utterances.

And because there are those among us who have scruples touching the propriety of any deliverance of a church court respecting civil matters, this Assembly would add that all strifes of party politics should indeed be banished from our ecclesiastical assemblies and from our pulpits, that Christian people should earnestly guard against promoting partisan divisions, and that the difficulty of accurately deciding, in some cases, what are general and what party principles, should make us careful in our judgments, but that our duty is none the less imperative to uphold the constituted authorities because minor delicate questions may possibly be involved. Rather, the sphere of the Church is wider and more searching, touching matters of great public interest, than the sphere of the civil magistrate, in this important respect, that the civil authorities can take cognizance only of overt acts, while the law of which the Church of God is the interpreter searches the heart, makes every man subject to the civil authority for conscience' sake, and declares that man truly guilty who allows himself to be alienated in sympathy and feeling from any lawful duty, or who does not conscientiously prefer the welfare and especially the preservation of the Government to any party or partisan ends. Officers may not always command a citizen's confidence; measures may by him be deemed unwise; earnest, lawful efforts may be made for changes he may think desirable; but no causes now exist to vindicate the disloyalty of American citizens towards the United States Government.

This General Assembly would not withhold from the Government of the United States that expression of cordial sympathy which a loyal people should offer. We believe that God has afforded us ample resources to suppress this rebellion, and that, with his blessing, it will ere long be accomplished; we would animate those who are discouraged by the continuance and fluctuations of these costly strifes to remember and rejoice in the supreme government of our God, who often leads through perplexity and darkness; we would exhort to penitence for all our national sins, to sobriety and humbleness of mind before the Great Ruler of all, and to constant prayerfulness for the Divine blessing; and we would entreat our people to beware of all schemes implying resistance to the lawfully constituted authorities, by any other means than are recognized as lawful to be openly prosecuted. And as this Assembly is ready to declare our unalterable attachment and adherence to the Union established by our fathers, and our unqualified condemnation of the rebellion, to proclaim to the world the United States, one and undivided, as our country, the lawfully-chosen rulers of the land our rulers, the Government of the United States our civil Government, and its honored flag our flag, and to affirm that we are bound in the truest and strictest fidelity to the duties of Christian citizens under a Government that has strewn its blessings with a profuse hand, your committee recommend that the particular act contemplated in the original resolution be no further urged upon the attention of this body.

The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, New-School, May, 1863, passed the following paper, prepared by Rev. Albert Barnes: -

Whereas a rebellion, most unjust and causeless in its origin and unholy in its objects, now exists in this country, against the Government established by the wisdom and sacrifice of our fathers, rendering necessary the employment of the armed forces of the nation to suppress it, And involving the land in the horrors of civil war; and

Whereas the distinctly avowed purpose of the leaders of this rebellion is the dissolution of our national Union, the dismemberment of the country, and the establishment of a new Confederacy within the present territorial limits of the United States, based on the system of human slavery as its chief comer-stone; and

Whereas from the relation of the General Assembly to the churches which they represent, and as citizens of the republic, and in accordance with the uniform action of our Church in times of great national peril, it is eminently proper that this General Assembly should give expression to its views in a matter so vitally affecting the interests of good government, liberty, and religion; and

Whereas on two previous occasions since the war commenced the General Assembly has declared its sentiments in regard to this rebellion, and its determination to sustain the Government in this crisis of our national existence; and

Whereas, unequivocal and decided as has been our testimony on all previous occasions, and true and devoted as has been the loyalty of our ministers, elders, and people, this General Assembly deem it a duty to the Church and the country to utter its deliberate judgment on the same general subject: therefore,

Resolved, That this General Assembly solemnly reaffirms the principles and repeats the declarations of previous General Assemblies of our Church, so far as applicable to this subject and to the present aspect of public affairs.

Resolved, That in explanation of our views, and as a further and solemn expression of the sentiments of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, in regard to the duties of those whom we represent, and of all the American people at the present time, we now declare -

First. That civil government is ordained of God, and that submission to a lawful Government and to its acts in its proper sphere is a duty binding on the conscience, and required by all the principles of our religion as a part of our allegiance to God.

Second. That while there is in certain respects a ground of distinction between a Government considered as referring to the Constitution of a country, and an administration considered as referring to the existing agencies through which the principles and provisions of the Constitution are administered, yet the Government of a country to which direct allegiance and loyalty are due at any time is the administration duly placed in power. Such an administration is the Government of a nation, having a right to execute the laws and demand the entire, unqualified, and prompt obedience of all who are under its authority; and resistance to such a Government is rebellion and treason.

Third. That the present Administration of the United States, duly elected under the Constitution, is the Government in the land to which alone, under God, all the citizens of this nation owe allegiance; who, as such, are to be honored and obeyed; whose efforts to defend the Government against rebellion are to be sustained; and that all attempts to resist or set aside the action of the lawfully constituted authorities of the Government in any way, by speech or action to oppose or embarrass the measures which it may adopt to assert its lawful authority, except in accordance with the forms prescribed by the Constitution, are to be regarded as treason against the nation, as giving aid and comfort to its enemies, and as rebellion against God.

Fourth. That in the execution of the laws it is the religious duty of all good citizens promptly and cheerfully to sustain the Government by every means in their power; to stand by it in its peril, and to afford all needful aid in suppressing insurrection and rebellion and restoring obedience to lawful authority in every part of the land.

Resolved, That much as we lament the evils, the sorrows, the sufferings, the desolations, the sad moral influences of war, and its effect on the religion and character of the land, much as we have suffered in our most tender relations, yet the war, in our view, is to be prosecuted with all the vigor and power of the nation, until peace shall be the result of victory, till rebellion is completely subdued, till the legitimate power and authority of the Government be fully re-established over every part of our temporal domain, and till the flag of the nation shall wave as the emblem of its undisputed sovereignty, and that to the prosecution and attainment of this object all the resources of the nation, in men and wealth, should be solemnly pledged.

Resolved, That the Government of these United States, as provided for by the Constitution, is not only founded upon the great doctrine of human rights as vested by God in the individual man, but is also expressly declared to be the supreme civil authority in the land, forever excluding the modern doctrine of secession as a civil or political right. That since the existing rebellion finds no justification in the facts of the case, in the Constitution of the United States, in any law, human or divine, the Assembly can regard it only as treason against the nation, and a most offensive sin in the sight of God, justly exposing its authors to the retributive vengeance of earth and heaven; that this rebellion, in its origin, history, and measures, has been distinguished by those qualities which most sadly evince the depravity of our nature, especially in seeking to establish a new nationality on this continent, based on the perpetual enslavement and oppression of a weak and long-injured race; that the national forces are, in the view of this Assembly, called out not to wage war against another Government, but to suppress insurrection, preserve the supremacy of law and order, and save the country from anarchy and ruin.

Resolved, In such a contest, with such principles and interests at stake, affecting not only the peace, prosperity, and happiness of our beloved country for all future time, but involving the cause of human liberty throughout the world, loyalty, unreserved and unconditional, to the constitutionally elected Government of the United States, not as the transient passion of the hour, but as the intelligent and permanent state of the public conscience, rising above all questions of party politics, rebating and opposing the foul spirit of treason, whenever and in whatever form exhibited, speaking earnest words of truth and soberness, alike through the pulpit, the press, and in all the walks of domestic and social life, making devout supplications to God, and giving the most cordial support to those who are providentially intrusted with the enactment and execution of the laws, is not only a sacred obligation, but indispensable if we would save the nation and perpetuate the glorious inheritance we possess to future generations.

Resolved, That the system of human bondage, as existing in the slave-holding States, so palpably the root and cause of the whole insurrectionary movement, is not only a violation of the domestic rights of human nature, but essentially hostile to the letter and spirit of the Christian religion; that the evil character and demoralizing tendency of this system, so properly described, so justly condemned, by the General Assembly of our Church, especially, from 1818 to the present time, have been placed in the broad light of day by the history of the existing rebellion. That in the sacrifices and desolations, the cost of treasure and blood, ordained thereby, the Assembly recognize the chastening hand of God applied to the punishment of national sins, especially the sin of slavery; that in the proclamation of emancipation issued by the President as a war-measure, and submitted by him to the considerate judgment of mankind, the Assembly recognize with devout gratitude that wonder-working providence of God by which military necessities become the instruments of justice in breaking the yoke of oppression and causing the oppressed to go free; and, further, that the Assembly beseech Almighty God, in his own time, to remove the last vestige of slavery from the country, and give to the nation, preserved, disciplined, and purified, a peace that shall be based on the principles of eternal righteousness.

Resolved, That this General Assembly commends the President of the United States, and the members of his Cabinet, to the care and guidance of the Great Ruler of nations, praying that they may have that wisdom which is profitable to direct, and also that the patriotism and moral sense of the people may give to them all that support and co-operation which the emergencies of their position and the perils of the nation so urgently demand.

Resolved, That, in the ardor with which so many members of our churches and of the churches of all the religious denominations of our land have gone forth to the defence of our country, placing themselves upon her altar in the struggle for national life, we see an illustration, not only of the principles of our holy religion, but in the readiness with which such vast numbers have, at the call of the country, devoted themselves to its service, we see a demonstration which promises security to our institutions in all times of future danger. That we tender the expression of admiration and hearty thanks to all the officers of our army and navy, that those who have nobly fallen and those who survive have secured an imperishable monument in the hearts of their countrymen, and that this Assembly regard all efforts for the physical comfort or spiritual good of our heroic defenders as among the sweetest charities which gratitude can impose or grateful hands can minister.

Resolved, That this General Assembly expects all the churches and ministers connected with this branch of the Presbyterian Church, and all our countrymen, to stand by their country, to pray for it, to discountenance all forms of complicity with treason, to sustain those who are placed in civil or military authority over them, and to adopt every means, and at any cost, which an enlightened, self-sacrificing patriotism may suggest as appropriate to the wants of its honor, having on this subject one heart and one mind, waiting hopefully on Providence, patient amid delays, and animated by reverses, persistent and untiring in effort, till, by the blessing of God, the glorious motto, "One Country, one Constitution, and one Destiny," shall be enthroned in the sublime fact of the present and more sublime harbinger of the future.

Resolved, That this General Assembly tenders its affectionate condolence and heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families of all the heroic men who have fallen in this contest for national life, and especially the families and officers of our churches who have poured out their lives on the altar of their country, with the assurance that they will not be forgotten in their bereavement by a grateful people.

Resolved, That a copy of this action, duly authenticated, be transmitted to the President of the United States, and that these resolutions be read in all our pulpits.

This patriotic Christian paper was republished in England, and noticed with distinguished favor by some of the leading journals of that country.

After the adjournment of the Assembly, some sixty-five members, as a committee, proceeded to Washington City and presented the resolutions to the President. They were introduced by Rev. Dr. John C. Smith, the oldest pastor in Washington, in appropriate remarks; and the Chairman, John A. Foote, of Cleveland, Ohio, read the resolutions. The President replied as follows: -

It has been my happiness to receive testimonies of a similar nature from, I believe, all denominations of Christians. They are all loyal, but perhaps not in the same degree, or in the same numbers; but I think they all claim to be loyal. This to me is most gratifying, because from the beginning I saw that the issues of our great struggle depended on the Divine interposition and favor. If we had that, all would be well. The proportions of this rebellion were not for a long time understood. I saw that it involved the greatest difficulties, and would call forth all the powers of the whole country. The end is not yet.

The point made in your paper is well taken as to "the Government" and "the administration," in whose hands are these interests. I fully appreciate its correctness and justice. In my administration I may have committed some errors. It would be, indeed, remarkable if I had not. I have acted according to my best judgment in every case. The views expressed by the Committee accord with my own; and on this principle "the Government" is to be supported though the administration may not in every case wisely act. As a pilot, I have used my best exertions to keep afloat our ship of state, and shall be glad to resign my trust at the appointed time to another pilot more skilful and successful than I may prove. In every case, and at all hazards, the Government must be perpetuated. Relying, as I do, upon the Almighty Power, and encouraged as I am by these resolutions which you have just read, with the support which I receive from Christian men, I shall not hesitate to use all the means at my control to secure the termination of this rebellion, and will hope for success.

I sincerely thank you for this interview, this pleasant mode of presentation, and the General Assembly for their patriotic support in these resolutions.

3.68) The General Synod and Contention of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church, June, 1863.

Whereas it is the duty of the Church of Christ, and of all those who minister at her altars, agreeably to the teachings of the Scriptures, and the injunctions of our standards and formularies of doctrine and worship, to yield at all times a cordial support, both by precept and example, to the legitimate Government of the land; and

Whereas this duty is especially incumbent at a period when the Government is assailed by armed violence and insubordination, and its very existence and integrity are sought to be subverted by a powerful and persevering rebellion: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That we tender to the Government of the United States, and those who represent it, the renewed expression of our warmest and deepest sympathy in its present protracted struggle to maintain its lawful authority and to preserve unbroken the integrity and union of these States.

2. That we hold it to be our imperative duty as ministers of the gospel and members of the Synod, while abstaining from all unseemly mixing up of ourselves with mere party politics, in our own appropriate sphere and by every possible means to strengthen the hands of the Government at the present imminent crisis, wherein are put at stake the national life and the noblest example and experiment of constitutional government the world has ever seen; and that we will yield a cordial support to all such measures, not incompatible with the great law of righteousness, as may be necessary to suppress the existing rebellion and to assert the complete authority of the Union over all proper territory and domain.

3. That we will hail with satisfaction the earliest practicable period for the introduction and establishment of a salutary peace, - a peace founded on the full ascendency of law and rightful authority, and guaranteed in its permanency by the removal or the sufficient coercion and restraint of whatever causes tend necessarily to imperil the existence of the nation and to endanger the preservation of the Union; and until such a peace can be obtained, we hold it to be a sacred duty to ourselves, our children, our country, the Church of God, and also to humanity at large, to prosecute to the last a war forced upon us by an imperative necessity, and waged on our part not in hatred or revenge, but in the great cause of constitutional liberty and rational self-government.

4. That we recognize devoutly our dependence upon God for a happy issue and termination to our present troubles; that we accept with profound humility and abasement the chastisements of his hand; that we make mention of our deep unworthiness and sin; and that we endeavor, by continual searching, repentance, and careful walking before God, to conciliate the Divine favor, so that ere long his heavy judgments in our national calamities may be removed, and a restoration may be accorded to us of the blessings of peace, fraternal harmony, fraternal union, and established government.

3.69) The Episcopal Convention of Pennsylvania, May, 1863.

Resolved, That, in the present crisis of our national existence, we feel called upon, as a Convention of the Church, not only to give to our beloved and bleeding country our earnest prayers, but to sustain the hands of the Government by a distinct expression of our loyal sentiments.

Resolved, therefore, That we pledge to the constituted authorities of the land our cordial sympathy and support in their efforts to suppress the existing rebellion and re-establish our national Union; and that we will continue to offer our constant prayers to Almighty God that he will be pleased to unite "the hearts of his people as the heart of one man in upholding the supremacy of law and the cause of justice and peace."

Resolved, That we do solemnly recognize and reaffirm, as pertaining to the character and requirements of our holy religion, the duty of hearty loyalty to the Constitution and Government under which God, in his good providence, has placed us, the duty of religiously abstaining from and boldly rebuking all sympathy or complicity with the privy conspiracy and rebellion from which we pray to be delivered, and the duty of humbly acknowledging the hand of Almighty God in the chastisements he inflicts, and of imploring his forbearance and forgiveness, and his gracious interposition in speedily restoring to us the blessings of union and peace, through Jesus Christ, our only Mediator and Redeemer.

3.70) Memorial of the Quakers to Congress.

The following extract, taken from a memorial to Congress, presented in February, 1863, by "the representatives of the religious Society of Friends, commonly called Quakers, in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, &c.," expresses the views of this body of American Christians on the rebellion. The memorial, after stating "that the Friends as a body have ever felt it a religious duty to live a quiet and peaceable life, to obey all laws which do not violate the precepts of our holy Redeemer," and that "we love our country, and thankfully appreciate the many privileges and benefits which, through the blessings of the Most High, have been vouchsafed to us under its mild and liberal government, and desire to do all we conscientiously can to maintain its integrity," and "that Friends have ever felt themselves religiously restrained from any participation in war," and that they cannot conscientiously pay penalties imposed as military fines, &c., concludes as follows: -

We deplore and utterly condemn the wicked rebellion, fomented by misguided and infatuated men, which has involved the nation in strife and bloodshed; and earnestly desire that, while the Lord's judgments are so awfully manifest, the inhabitants of the earth may learn righteousness, and through obedience to the requisitions of the only religion which we all profess we may happily secure the favor of Him who has all power in heaven and on earth, and by whose blessing only the nation can be preserved and prosper, so that peace may once more be restored throughout our whole land, and Christian liberty, harmony, and love universally prevail among the people.

Signed on behalf and by direction of a meeting of the representatives aforesaid, held in Philadelphia, the 24th of the 2d month, 1863.

Joseph Snowdon, Clerk.

A Convention of Methodist laymen met in the city of New York, in May, 1863, on ecclesiastical matters, and closed their deliberations by the passage of the fallowing resolutions: -

Resolved, 1. That we deem the present a fitting occasion, on the assembling together of laymen of the Methodist Episcopal Church from different States of the Union, to give expression to our sentiments as Christian men, pledging our unqualified devotion and adherence to the Union and the enforcement of the laws; and that no effort of ours, becoming those who are devoted to the furtherance of the interests of humanity and religion, shall be spared to sustain the Government in this crisis of its history.

Resolved, 2. We also recognize with great satisfaction the course of our papers, the patriotic services of many of our ministers in the army and navy at home and abroad in the national cause; and we indulge the hope that the day is not far distant when these noble men shall have the proud satisfaction of having contributed in no small degree in bringing about a restoration of our beloved country to the blessings of a glorious and permanent peace.

Resolved, 3. That we extend to our brave brethren on the field and in the army, now exposing their lives in defence of our common interests, our cordial sympathy and support, and we pledge them an interest in our prayers for themselves and our concern for their families at home.

Numerous delegates, many of whom occupied high civil and military positions, were present from Ohio, Maryland, New Jersey, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Delaware, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Maine, the District of Columbia, and the cities of New York and Brooklyn. The Convention was presided over by Joseph A. Wright, of Indiana, who had been Governor of the State, a representative in Congress, Minister at the Court of Berlin, in Prussia, and during the first two years of the rebellion a Senator in Congress. He was distinguished for his efforts to extend Christian institutions and influences through the land, and for his devotion to the country in its imperilled condition. His views on the relation of Christianity to civil society are expressed in the following words: -

Too long has the sentiment of Lord Brougham been heralded forth, "The schoolmaster is abroad." The proper sentiment is, The Bible is abroad. Out of the word of God spring the hope, the life, the vitality of the nations of the earth; without note or comment, freely circulated among the people. Its principles underlie all civil institutions and social structure.

Nations and men must fully recognize God's truth and providence in all their doings and actions. Our fathers fully realized it; and therein alone consisted their power and strength.

Governor Wright was connected with a beautiful, patriotic, and Christian incident in Berlin, the metropolis of Prussia. During his residence as minister to that court, he labored in a missionary German Sabbath-school; and, returning to that city in June, 1863, he bore from the capital of the American republic, where he had been a member of the Senate of the United States, a very beautiful Bible, which was sent as a present by the Sabbath-school connected with Wesley Chapel in Washington City. Governor Wright made a thrilling speech. The effect of the presentation and of the speech on the children and teachers was very marked, as was abundantly evidenced by smiling faces and falling tears. The Governor referred to the past history of the school, and his connection with it, and also to his intense anxiety for its future success. He spoke also of our present national troubles, and requested the whole school to kneel down and ask the God of our fathers to deliver us from this horrible rebellion." It was cheering," says the writer, "to hear two or three hundred children and teachers, led by their pastor, offering up their earnest prayers that God would bless America, the home of Washington, the land that these children have learned to prize."

The National Convention of the Young Men's Christian Association of the United States and the British Provinces met in May, 1863, at Chicago, Illinois. Delegates were present from most of the Northern States, the District of Columbia, Canada, and England. The Association was presided over by George H. Stuart, of Philadelphia, and passed the following resolutions: -

Resolved, That we hereby reaffirm our unconditional loyalty to the Government of the United States, and our determination to afford every required and Christian aid for the suppression of the infamous rebellion.

Resolved, That we are gratified at the steps already taken by the administration for the removal of the great sin of slavery, - "the sum of all villanies," - and must express our candid conviction that the war will last so long as its cause morally exists, and that when we as a nation do fully right, God will not delay to give success to our arms.

Resolved, That it is no time to confound liberty with lawlessness. We cherish the dearest boon of freedom with jealous vigilance, but remember that true freedom can only continue under restraints, and exist at all as guarded by law.

Resolved, That neither is this a time for doubtful, timid measures. The counsels of time-serving, self-seeking, inconsistent politicians are not to be heeded; but the loud voice of the loyal people, the heroic demands of our teeming volunteers, and the vigorous measures of unselfish and uncompromising generals are to be respected by those who rule over us.

Resolved, That we remember with honest gratitude the noble and immense work accomplished by the Young Men's Christian Association of our land, and the sanitary and spiritual fields opened up by the providence of God for our willing hearts and hands, and pledge that we will continue to pray for our army and navy, and to meet their wants in the future with greater fidelity, if possible.

Resolved, That we recommend to daily prayer-meetings connected with the Associations here represented to observe the usual hour of Monday following July 4, 1863, as a season of special prayer for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on all brave defenders of our country.

Other ecclesiastical bodies and Christian associations, during the rebellion, passed resolutions similar in tone and sentiment to those recorded in this volume; and all show in a most eminent degree the harmonious action and sentiment of all denominations of Christians in sustaining the Government of the United States and preserving the integrity and nationality of the republic. As a historic fact, unfolding the free genius of the Christian religion and the loyalty of its ministers, members, and Churches to liberty and free government, it is full of instruction, and reflects the highest honor on American Christianity as developed in the Northern States.

As an important fact in the Christian history of the nation, the resolutions of American Churches during the rebellion on the subject of slavery correspond with the sentiments and action of the Churches previous to and during the Revolution. The Congregational Churches, Presbyterian Synods and Assemblies, Baptist Associations, and the Quakers, all passed resolutions against slavery and labored for its abolition. The facts demonstrating this historic harmony are too numerous to be given in this volume.

The action of Christian denominations, as expressed in their resolutions and sentiments, justifies the following statement, made by Rev. Mr. Duryea before the American Tract Society, May, 1863: -

You may talk of patriotism, but the Christian needs no other motive than Christianity. If he is a Christian, he will have patriotism. When patriotism has died out from all other hearts, you will find it warm and true in the hearts of the Christian Church.

During the darkest hour of our trial, some of the Christian gentlemen of this land determined to go to the administration. I was made, unworthily, with Dr. Taylor, and Mr. Stuart, of Philadelphia, the spokesman. I told the President that the foundation of his strength had been in party constancy; when that should be gone, he might come down upon the people; but when the people should be divided, and he should find himself sinking, he need not despair, for in the lower depth he would find a new resting-place: he would strike the Christian Church, and then he would strike a rock. In high places in Washington, the secret tears rolled down the cheeks of our rulers when I told them that Christian men and women, and even little children, with clasped hands, were praying for the President of the United States, his advisers and colaborers; and the President said that that testimonial from the Christian Church had comforted and strengthened him, and he thanked us and God for it.

Back to top

4) Proclamation of Emancipation.

The Christian action of most of the Churches during the second and third years of the rebellion, as well as the civil and military policy of the Government, had reference to the following important state paper: -

4.1) A Proclamation.

Whereas, on the twenty-second day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two, a proclamation was issued by the President of the United States, containing, among other things, the following, to wit:

"That on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State, or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be thenceforward and FOREVER FREE, and the Executive Government of the United States, including the military and naval authority thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, and will do no act or acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom.

"That the Executive will, on the first day of January aforesaid, by proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if any, in which the people thereof respectively shall then be in rebellion against the United States; and the fact that any State, or the people thereof, shall on that day be in good faith represented in the Congress of the United States, by members chosen thereto at elections wherein a majority of the qualified voters of such State shall have participated, shall, in the absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed conclusive evidence that such State and the people thereof are not then in rebellion against the United States."

Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, by virtue of the power in me vested as Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States in time of actual armed rebellion against the authority and Government of the United States, and as a fit and necessary war-measure for suppressing said rebellion, do, on this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and in accordance with my purpose so to do, publicly proclaimed for the full period of one hundred days from the day first above mentioned, order and designate as the States and parts of States wherein the people thereof, respectively, are this day in rebellion against the United States, the following, to wit: -

Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana (except parishes of St. Bernard, Plaquemines, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. James, Ascension, Assumption, Terre Bonne, Lafourche, St. Marie, St. Martin, and Orleans, including the city of New Orleans), Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia (except the forty-eight counties designated as West Virginia, and also the counties of Berkeley, Acoomac, Northampton, Elizabeth City, York, Princess Anne, and Norfolk, including the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth, and which excepted parts are, for the present, left precisely as if this proclamation were not issued).

And, by virtue of the power and for the purpose aforesaid, I do order and declare that ALL PERSONS HELD AS SLAVES within said designated States and parts of States ARE, AND HENCEFORWARD SHALL BE, FREE; and that the Executive Government of the United States, including the military and naval authorities thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons.

And I hereby enjoin upon the people so declared to be free to abstain from all violence, unless in necessary self-defence; and I recommend to them that in all cases, when allowed, they labor faithfully for reasonable wages.

And I further declare and make known that such persons, of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States, to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service.

And upon this act, sincerely believed to be an act of justice, warranted by the Constitution, upon military necessity, I invoke the considerate judgment of mankind and the gracious favor of Almighty God.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington, this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the independence of the United States of America the eighty-seventh.

Abraham Lincoln.

By the President:

William H. Seward, Secretary of State.

Back to top

5) Christian Organizations

Made special efforts to cultivate and strengthen the religious element of the nation during the conflict. The American Bible Society distributed to the men in the army and navy more than a million of Bibles and Testaments. The American Tract Society of Boston had its head-quarters at Washington, and through its agent, Mr. Alvord, accomplished a great work. He says, "General Scott and his staff received the books with remarkable favor, and the old general himself bid him God-speed in the work of distribution. Government allowed the packages to go in the mails, and furnished every facility for distribution, by which the entire Army of the Potomac was reached once a week. The books and tracts were eagerly received."

The American Tract Society of New York made systematic and successful efforts to reach the army and navy with its Christian literature, and received every encouragement from the Government. Their work received from the President the following approval: -

Executive Mansion, Washington, D.C., Sept. 6, 1861.

Rev. O. Eastman, Secretary American Tract Society, New York.

Dear Sir: - I take pleasure in acknowledging for the President your kind and patriotic note of the 3d instant. Allow me to express for the President his warm approbation of the work in which your Society is engaged. Religion and good government are sworn allies,

Respectfully,

Jno. G. Nicolay, Private Secretary.

The President said to a member of the Society, "You may have every thing, - transportation, free passes, can go where you please, and command the administration to the whole extent of its ability and means, to help you take care of the religious interests of the army."

The American Temperance Union was an efficient colaborer in the moral and Christian work done for the army. Samuel F. Carey, of Ohio, distinguished for his devotion to the cause of temperance, and for his eloquence in defending the country against the rebellion, said "that during the present civil war volumes of facts can be adduced demonstrating that many of our most serious disasters are directly attributable to intemperance, and that intoxicating liquors do more than all other things to deteriorate the character of the soldier and to unfit him for the defence of his country. In efforts made to promote the temperance reformation, General Scott, the veteran soldier and world-renowned officer, early in the war gave a written order to admit a temperance-lecturer within the lines, and directed that every possible facility be afforded him to exert an influence among the soldiers. President Lincoln, the commander-in-chief of the army, warmly endorsed the movement; and when the advocate was denied an opportunity of performing his mission by liquor-loving officers, the President gave a written and imperative command to receive him and facilitate his object. Backed by this credential, he went from regiment to regiment in the Potomac army; and his influence for good was felt and acknowledged. Commodores Foote and Porter, of the navy, have in the most unqualified manner testified to the necessity of total abstinence for the efficient conduct of the navy.

"In view of the peculiar temptations in the army, and the dangers of our soldiers contracting intemperate habits, tracts have been prepared by Marsh, Delavan, Carey, and others, and millions of pages distributed gratuitously by philanthropic individuals and societies."

The Christian Commission was an extensive and an efficient organization for the diffusion of religious influences during the war. It was organized on a national basis, with a large committee of the most distinguished ministers and laymen in the various Northern States, and had its unpaid agents everywhere in the army and navy, who were received with the most cordial welcome. The following is the official statement of its object: -

Their object is to promote the spiritual and temporal welfare of the brave men who are now in arms to put down a wicked rebellion. They propose to do this by aiding the chaplains and others in their work.

1. By furnishing to them religious tracts, periodicals, and books.

2. By aiding in the formation of religious associations in the several regiments.

3. By putting such associations in correspondence with the Christian public.

4. By cultivating, as far as possible, the religious sympathies and prayers of Christians in their behalf.

5. By obtaining and directing such gratuitous personal labor among the soldiers and sailors as may be practicable.

6. By improving such other opportunities and means as may, in the providence of God, be presented.

7. By furnishing, as far as possible, profitable reading other than religious, and, wherever there is a permanent military post, by establishing a general library of such works.

8. By establishing a medium of speedy and safe intercommunication between the men in the army and navy and their friends and families, by which small packages of clothing, books, and medicines, and mementoes of social affection, can be interchanged.

We propose to encourage in them whatever is good and keep fresh in their remembrance the instructions of earlier years, and to develop, organize, and make effective the religious element in the army and navy. The field is open to us. We can have free access to their immortal souls; the chaplains desire and call for our aid; the Government wish it; and the men ask for and receive religious reading and teaching with an eagerness most touching. Thousands who at home never entered the house of God, and had none to care for their souls, now, in imminent peril, desire to know of Him who can give them the victory over death through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The following testimonials addressed to George H. Stuart, of Philadelphia, Chairman of the Christian Commission, show the value of this benevolent organization: -

Executive Mansion, Washington, December 12, 1861.

My Dear Sir: - Your Christian and benevolent undertaking for the benefit of the soldiers is too obviously proper and praiseworthy to admit any difference of opinion. I sincerely hope your plan may be as successful in execution as it is just and generous in conception.

A. Lincoln.

War Department, December 13, 1861.

This Department is deeply interested in the "spiritual good of the soldiers in our army" as well as in their "intellectual improvement and social and physical comfort," and will cheerfully give its aid to the benevolent and patriotic of the land who desire to improve the condition of our troops. It confidently looks for beneficial results from so noble an enterprise, and begs you to express to the Commission its sincere wish for the success of this great work in behalf of the soldier.

Simon Cameron, Secretary of War.

 

 

Navy Department, December 16, 1861.

This Department will be gratified with any legitimate means to promote the welfare (present and future) of all who are in the service.

Gordon Welles, Secretary of the Navy.

 

Washington, January 5, 1863.

The Christian Commission have in hand a noble work, and are performing it, I am well assured, as only a labor of love can be performed.

M. Blair, Postmaster-General.

 

Head-Quarters, Army of the Potomac, 
Washington, June 8, 1862.

The objects of the Commission are such as meet my cordial approval, and will, if carried out in the proper spirit, prove of great value.

George B. McClellan.

 

War Department, Washington, January 24, 1863.

Bishop Janes is authorized to state that he has received assurance from the Secretary of War, E. M. Stanton, that every facility consistent with the exigencies of the service will be afforded to the Christian Commission, for the performance of their religious and benevolent purposes in the armies of the United States, and in the forts, garrisons and camps, and military posts.

 

Bureau of Equipment and Recruiting, 
Washington, D.C, January 28, 1863.

The object and importance of your Commission cannot be overestimated. It will supply a hiatus long wanting in the army and navy, and must enlist the sympathies and prayers of all true Christian patriots. To supply the spiritual wants of the public service on the battle-field and upon the ocean, and to lead our warriors to go forward valiantly to the fight, acknowledging God as our Ruler and looking to him for success, will, I have no doubt, soon cause this wicked rebellion to culminate in the restoration of our Union.

A. H. Foote, Admiral in the Navy.

Lieutenant-General Winfield Scott, at a public meeting of the Christian Commission held in New York, December, 1861, presided, and made the following address; -

Fellow-Citizens: - The honor done me on this occasion, in calling me to occupy this chair upon an occasion of so much importance and worth, gladdens the heart of an old soldier and fills him with gratitude and love. New York has sent out her thousands upon thousands of brave sons to fight the battles of our Constitution and Union, and has not forgotten them in the field or upon their return home. Her care has been incessant. She has given them every aid, has cared for their families, and watched over the wounded, sick, lame, and halt upon their return. The objects of this Association will be explained to you by my colleague in the duties of the chair, more fully than I shall attempt upon this occasion. With such a cause, that God will prosper our efforts and give us triumph no Christian man can doubt.

General Scott, as chief of the army of the United States, and for a half-century distinguished in the military service of his country, and exerting a large influence on society and the Government, in public and in private, bore his testimony to the divinity of the Christian religion, and its vital necessity to the welfare and stability of human society and governments. In 1844, in a public letter, referring to the settlement of international difficulties, he said, "We should especially remember, all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them. This Divine principle is of universal obligation: it is as applicable to rulers in their transactions with other nations as to private individuals in their daily intercourse with each other. Power is intrusted by the Author of peace and lover of concord 'to do good, and avoid evil.' Such is clearly the revealed will of God."

He inculcated the highest moral virtues with the character and conduct of an American officer and soldier, and enjoined, in a general order, in 1842, that "every officer shall give himself up entirely to the cultivation and practice of all the virtues and accomplishments which can elevate an honorable profession. . . . The officers should unite a high degree of moral vigor with the courtesy that springs from the heart."

"To this distinguished man," said Dr. Channing, of Boston, "belongs the rare honor of uniting with military energy and daring the spirit of a philanthropist. ... It would not be easy to find among us a man who has won a purer fame."

On Sabbath evening, February 22, 1863, the Christian Commission held a meeting in the hall of the House of Representatives, Washington City, which was one of the most remarkable meetings ever held in the Capitol of the nation.

Those who took part in the proceedings represented the widest range of the most important interests. Secretary Chase, who presided, represented the Government, the approval of which was given most cordially not only by him, but also by the letter received from the President, to the United States Christian Commission, and its great national work for the army and navy: -

Executive Mansion, Washington, February 22, 1863.

Whatever shall be sincerely and in God's name devised for the good of the soldiers and seamen in their hard spheres of duty can scarcely fail to be blessed. And whatever shall tend to turn our thoughts from the unreasoning and uncharitable passions, prejudices, and jealousies incident to a great national trouble such as ours, and to fix them upon the vast and long-enduring consequences for weal or for woe which are to result from this struggle, and especially to strengthen our reliance on the Supreme Being for the final triumph of the right, cannot but be well for us all.

The birthday of Washington and the Christian Sabbath coinciding this year, and suggesting together the highest interests of this life and of that to come, is most propitious for the meeting proposed.

A. Lincoln.

Back to top

6) The Sabbath,

In its proper observance and influence in the army and navy, enlisted the earnest efforts of the Christian public. The following petition was extensively circulated, and sent to the President: -

6.1) To His Excellency the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States.

The petition of the subscribers, loyal citizens of the United States, and heartily pledging all righteous support to the national Government, particularly in the present unhappy struggle with a rebellion most criminal and fearful, very respectfully showeth -

That we are, in fact, a Christian people, believing obedience to God's will, revealed in the Holy Scriptures, to be our sole security for his blessings; that our soldiers and sailors go forth usually from Christian communities and homes, with at least strong religious convictions; that many of them are communicants in Christian Churches; that our army and navy, therefore, are distinctly a Christian army and navy, and entitled, in war as well as in peace, to Christian care and privileges; that experience has conclusively proved that moral and religious improvement, and a reasonable respect paid to conscientious convictions, always promote the loyalty and efficiency of men engaged in warfare, while nothing can well demoralize and discourage them so thoroughly as an apprehension that God's favor has been forfeited by either themselves or their commanders; that men returning home debauched in a service characterized by vice and irreligion ever prove a bane to society; and that the Christian people of this land, in sending forth from their dwellings and churches those who are to fight the battles of the country, do therefore reasonably expect, as your petitioners do most earnestly pray, that your Excellency will give careful attention to the moral and religious interests of the whole army and navy under your command; and particularly -

1. That you will adopt the most stringent measures to banish, as far as possible, from our forces all temptation to intemperance or any other vice.

2. That you will employ your whole authority to secure the general appointment of chaplains, regularly ordained, and of good standing in their respective denominations, with a faithful discharge of duty on their part, and all proper encouragement and independence in the same, and to insure to both officers and privates entire religious liberty and the right of attending upon a ministry of their own choice.

3. That you will issue such orders respecting parades, reviews, receptions, the admission of visitors, military services, and the giving of battle, as will, excepting in cases of absolute necessity, secure uninterrupted the rest and worship of the Sabbath, to none more important, for both body and soul, than to the soldier or sailor, and to him never more important than upon the eve of battle.

And your petitioners will ever pray, &c.

The ministers of Cincinnati, Ohio, addressed the President the following paper: -

Cincinnati, Ohio, June 29, 1861

To The President of the United States:

Sir: - The undersigned, members of the "Union of Protestant Ministers of Cincinnati," desire to address you, briefly, on a subject which lies very near to our hearts. It respects the moral and religious welfare of the troops called forth to suppress the present causeless and wicked rebellion. Our Churches, as you are aware, have fully and without reserve entered into the purpose of the Government to defend and maintain the national life. They have freely given of the choicest of their members, and sent them to the camp and the fields of conflict, with their benedictions and their prayers.

At the same time, we cannot be indifferent to the moral dangers to which they are exposed. They are mostly young men; and, in their name and in the name of those with whom they are associated, we therefore ask the Government to do all that it consistently can to guard their morals and provide for their religious welfare. We would especially mention the steady encouragement of the observance of the Sabbath in the camp, and the furnishing of all reasonable facilities for religious instruction and edification. War, we know, has its own exigencies; and we would ask for nothing impracticable, or that would in the least impair the efficiency of the military arm. It is with great satisfaction, also, that we have learned the determination of the Government to provide for the maintenance of a chaplain in each regiment, while the army regulations in respect to religious matters must recommend themselves to every mind.

At the same time, we feel assured that the expression of the interest of the Government in the carrying out of these regulations, its expressly discouraging all unnecessary drilling and other work in the camp, and the making suitable provision for the erection of sheds or other temporary accommodations for religious worship in stationary camps, would have an exceedingly beneficial influence, and do much to strengthen the religious element, which, we are happy to know, prevails so largely among our troops, and which in all wars of principle has been found to contribute so essentially to the final result.

Invoking upon you, sir, and your Cabinet the blessings of Heaven, and assuring you of our fervent intercession, and those of our congregations, in public and in private, at the throne of grace, in your behalf,

We are, respectfully.

The President made the following reply: -

Executive Mansion, July 21, 1861.

Reverend and Dear Sir: - I am directed by the President to acknowledge the receipt of a communication signed by yourself and many others of the "Union of Protestant Ministers of Cincinnati."

The President desires me to express his deep appreciation of the motives which prompted your address, and his entire sympathy with the views you hold, and to assure you that, as far as practicable, the principles to which you give utterance shall guide the conduct of the Government in the troubled scenes upon which we are entering.

I have the honor to be your most obedient servant,

John Hay, Assistant Secretary.

6.2) Address of the New York Sabbath Deputation to the President.

To the President:

We wait on you, Mr. President, as a Deputation from the New York Sabbath Committee, in conformity with the request of a meeting of influential citizens from all parts of the country, held last August at Saratoga Springs, to promote the better observance of Sunday in the army and navy of which you are the honored commander-in-chief. To this end we respectfully solicit your sanction of an appropriate General Order protecting the rights of our brave soldiers and sailors to their weekly season of rest and worship, - the emergencies of the service excepted, - and recommending such use of sacred time as will best secure its sanitary, moral, and religious benefits.

We deem it superfluous in this presence to discuss the civil or sacred relations of an institution as old as time and as prevalent as freedom and Christianity. We address the civil and military ruler of a republic whose busy population weekly pause in their industrial pursuits and throng the temples of Christian worship, attesting their reverence for the Lord's day and its Author, and whose laws and customs reflect, as they have ever done, the popular appreciation of the national rest-day. It is no unintelligent, superstitious principle that has moulded the legislation of more than thirty States of the Union and stamped its impress on the character of the nation. The law of periodical rest is written on the human constitution and on the framework of free, self-governing institutions, as indelibly as it is on the pages of revelation. A government of law must have its foundations in morality: its liberties inhere, under God, in its virtues. But it is the recorded axiom of the late Justice McLean, "Where there is no Christian Sabbath there is no Christian morality; and without this free institutions cannot long be sustained," - a sentiment impressively illustrated by the fact that the only free nations in existence are those in which the civil Sabbath is incorporated in their laws, as is the sacred Sabbath in their cherished convictions and habits.

The respected Attorney-General of the United States has well defined the fundamental connection of the Sabbath with public morals, and so with regulated liberty. "The religious character," says Mr. Bates, "of an institution so ancient, so sacred, so lawful, and so necessary to the peace, the comfort, and the respectability of society, ought alone to be sufficient for its protection; but, that failing, surely the laws of the land made for its account ought to be as strictly enforced as the laws for the protection of person and property. Vice and crime are always progressive and cumulative. If the Sunday laws be neglected or despised, the laws of person and property will soon share their fate and be equally disregarded." The Deputation may be pardoned for alluding to the recent records of crime in New York City as a striking confirmation of the Attorney-General's views. They show that the partial suppression of Sunday abuses and temptations resulted in a relative change of sixty-five per cent, in the arrests for violating "the laws of person and property," as compared with the period when "the Sunday laws were neglected or despised." The Deputation appeal to the results of our national system of moral discipline in the general supremacy of law and liberty throughout the Northern States, even in a time of civil war, as revealing at once the root and the fruits of the tree under whose shadow the republic has sought its weekly repose and rendered its weekly homage.

Assuming, then, as we surely may, the President's patriotic and Christian respect for the Lord's day, we pass to the specific object of the Deputation.

In response to the call of the Government, nearly a million of citizens have become soldiers. They have been transferred from home, Church, and neighborhood influences, so fruitful in incitements to virtue and restraints from vice, and are exposed to the temptations of the camp and forecastle. The laws and habits of civil and domestic life are superseded by the. military code and customs. It may be hoped that individuals or entire commands have borne the transition without injury to principle or character; but the tendency of the novel influences must be towards demoralization, and every available counteracting agency is demanded by the highest considerations of philanthropy, patriotism, and religion.

It is due to the army and navy. The common right of soldiers and tailors to their weekly rest, unless abridged by military necessity, will not be questioned; nor the correlative duty to observe the day according to its design. But tens of thousands of men have enlisted into one or other branch of the national service from Christian Churches. Bible-classes, Sunday-schools, and religious homes, - twenty-seven from a single Bible-class within our knowledge. We would vindicate the rights of these Christian men, and of all others who have moral sense enough to make good soldiers, to immunity from outrage of feeling or oppression of conscience in matters as sacred as life. They cherish, for example, a profound reverence for the name of God, and regard "profane cursing and swearing," as Washington did, as "a foolish and wicked practice," "a vice so mean and low that every man of sense and character detests and despises it." They esteem the Sabbath as sacred to rest and devotion, and have been taught from infancy "that the observance of the holy day of the God of mercy and of battles is our sacred duty." They have been trained to devout reliance on the Divine arm in their exposure of life itself in defence of a just cause, and they recoil from the violation of Divine statutes and from the wanton disregard of them by their companions in arms. They may justly claim such leadership and discipline as shall respect their most sacred convictions, when those convictions contain the elements of principled courage, unswerving obedience, and undying patriotism. If any of their officers lack the tact, self-respect, or principle to recognize these claims, superior authorities should exact the recognition, as the simplest justice to the men and the most obvious requisite of military discipline. Immorality and irreligion will sufficiently abound in spite of law and example: when these are lacking, the drift is fearful towards moral degeneracy and consequent military inefficiency.

The official intervention we seek is due to the country. The camp cannot become a school of vice without entailing irreparable injury on the numberless homes and hamlets represented in a vast volunteer army, nor without lasting damage to the morals and so to the liberties of the republic. Nor can the fact be overlooked that the cause itself for which the country and the army are contending is imperilled just in the measure in which impiety and immorality characterize its defenders and provoke the displeasure of Heaven.

It is conceded that the limit of official interposition in this matter is quite restricted. The rights of conscience are sacred. The exigencies of military service, too, must frequently overrule the choice of commanders and the natural rights of the soldier. But is there not a sphere within which the legitimate exercise of authority and moral influence may restrain the tendencies to evil that awaken alarm and grief among right-minded citizens?

The action we solicit might be mandatory so far as relates to needful weekly rest, the wanton invasion of Christian rights, and the choice of Sunday for aggressive warfare, due discretion being accorded to generals commanding, under their responsibility to God and the Government. Beyond this, paternal counsels only might suffice to encourage the virtuous and self-respecting, and to bring into disrepute the lawless trifling of officers or men with sacred interests.

The records of our Revolutionary period furnish memorable precedents for the action we venture to suggest. Repeatedly did the Father of his Country address orders to the army rebuking immorality, and encouraging purity of conduct as only befitting the holy cause for which they contended, and reminding officers and men, as we need to be reminded, that "we can have little hope of the blessing of Heaven on our arms if we insult it by our impiety and folly."

The President issued the following order: -

Executive Mansion, Washington, D.C., Nov. 16, 1862.

The President, commander-in-chief of the army and navy, desires and enjoins the orderly observance of the Sabbath by the officers and men in the military and naval service. The importance for man and beast of the prescribed weekly rest, the sacred rights of Christian soldiers and sailors, a becoming deference to the best sentiment of a Christian people, and a due regard for the Divine will, demand that Sunday labor in the army and navy be reduced to the measure of strict necessity. The discipline and character of the national forces should not suffer, nor the cause they defend be imperilled, by the profanation of the day or the name of the Most High. At this time of public distress, adopting the words of Washington in 1776, ''men may find enough to do in the service of God and their country, without abandoning themselves to vice and immorality." The first general order issued by the Father of his Country, after the Declaration of Independence, indicates the spirit in which our institutions were founded and should ever be defended: - "The general hopes and trusts that every officer and man will endeavor to live and act as becomes a Christian soldier defending the dearest rights and privileges of his country."

Abraham Lincoln.

General McClellan, who for more than a year was commander of the Army of the Potomac, issued the following order: -

6.2.1) General Orders No. 7.

Head-Quarters Army of the Potomac, Washington, Sept 7.

The Major-General commanding desires and requests that in future there may be a more perfect respect for the Sabbath on the part of his command. We are fighting in a holy cause, and should endeavor to deserve the benign favor of the Creator. Unless in case of an attack by the enemy, or some other extreme military necessity, it is commended to commanding officers that all work shall be suspended on the Sabbath; that no unnecessary movements shall be made on that day; that the men, as far as possible, shall be permitted to rest from their labors; that they shall attend Divine service after the customary morning inspection, and that officers and men alike use their influence to insure the utmost decorum and quiet on that day. The general commanding regards this as no idle form. One day's rest is necessary for man and animals. More than this, the observance of the holy day of the God of mercy and battles is our sacred duty.

Signed     Geo. B. McClellan.

Major-General Commanding.

General Casey, a veteran officer of the United States army, at a public meeting in Washington in January, 1863, held to promote the observance of the Sabbath in the army, made the following statement: -

I have been thirty-six years in the military service, and I know that the army need a Sabbath. I was five years in the Florida War. In long marches better time will be made, and the men will go through in better condition, by resting on the Sabbath than by continuous marching. No prudent general will plan for a Sunday battle. I would appeal to the American people to save our American Sabbath. If our wealth is lost in this terrible war, it may be recovered; if our young men are killed off, others will grow up; but if our Sabbath is lost, it can never he restored and all is lost.

Commodore Foote, who as a commander in the navy was distinguished for his eminent and practical piety, as well as for his patriotism and earnest efforts to serve his country and put down the rebellion, issued the following order in respect to the Sabbath and profanity: -

6.2.2) General Order No. 6.

A strict observance of the Sabbath, so far as abstaining from all unnecessary work, and giving officers and men the opportunity of attending public worship on board, will be observed by all persons connected with the flotilla.

It is the wish of the commander-in-chief that on the Sabbath the public worship of Almighty God may be observed on board of all the vessels composing the flotilla, and that the respective commanders will either themselves, or cause other persons, to pronounce prayers publicly on Sabbath, when as many of the officers and men as can be spared from duty may attend the public worship of Almighty God.

Profane swearing being forbidden by the laws for the better government of the navy, all officers and men will strictly observe this law; and every officer who uses profane language towards the men in carrying on duty will be held amenable for such gross violation of law and order.

Discipline, to be permanent, must be based on moral grounds, and officers must in themselves show a good example in morals, order, and patriotism, to secure those qualities in the men.

Andrew H. Foote,

Flag-Officer commanding U.S. Naval Forces on the Western Waters.

6.3) The Chaplains of the Army

Were from all denominations of Christians; and the following testimony to their fidelity and usefulness is from sources entitled to the highest credit. Rev. Granville Moody, who relinquished one of the largest and wealthiest pastorates of the Methodist Church in Cincinnati in order to accept the position of colonel in the army, and who was earnest and eloquent in infusing a spirit of patriotism into the people from the pulpit, bears the following testimony: -

As I have had the amplest opportunities for noticing the operations of chaplains in the army, allow me to pay a passing tribute to their worth and work.

With very few exceptions, they have been men of one work, "watching for souls as they who must give account of the souls committed to their care'' in the wise, Christian, patriotic, and humane provision for their office and work by our glorious Government.

It is, indeed, refreshing to meet these men of God in all the departments of military operations. In camp, on the toilsome march, on the battle-fields, or in the hospitals with their crowded wards, we meet these humble ministers of peace, vindicating their claims as successors to the apostles, evangelists, pastors, teachers, and helps, who have received their commissions from Him "who went about doing good'' to the bodies and souls of men.

Pray for the chaplains in the army, in disseminating gospel truths, in advertising and applying God's remedy for man's misery, in the timely utterances of the precepts and promises of God, in restraining vice and encouraging virtue, in consoling the afflicted, comforting the comfortless, pointing sinners to the Lamb of God, sanctifying patriotism, sustaining Government, and serving their generation in their day. They are doing a great and glorious work, which will redound to the glory of God and the good of men.

As they appear before listening thousands in these sun-hot Southern groves, leading the solemn, simple, and sublime devotions of the Sabbafh in camp, we are compelled to say, with Cowper, -

"Then stands the solemn legate of the skies, 
His theme divine and his credentials clear. 
By him the violated law speaks out its thunders. 
And by him, in strains as sweet as angels use, 
The gospel whispers peace."

Long may the bright succession run, represented by those "who shall turn many to righteousness, and shine as the stars forever."

Granville Moody,

Colonel commanding 74th Reg't 0. V. I.

Rev. Mr. Alvord, Secretary and Superintendent of the operations of the American Tract Society of Boston in its work among the soldiers, and who was with the Army of the Potomac in active Christian service for two years, and in frequent conferences with chaplains, testifies as follows to their power and influence: -

Give the chaplains opportunity, facility, material; they are the organic, established ministration to the army, "God's ordinance," therefore, to advance Christianity. They are to be strengthened, not thrust aside. Link them all back to the people at home for sympathies and supplies, and in every way rally the Christians of the army around them; then let all the volunteer agency be as "Aarons and Hurs," and, whatever the Government or mere military men may do, religion will, under this Divine agency, magnify her supremacy and show her power to save. This is the way God is evidently now working. Christian appliances, especially through the chaplains, are rapidly gaining in effect.

Rev. Dr. Marks, as a chaplain in the Army of the Potomac, who by his fidelity and fitness for the work won a high distinction among the officers and soldiers, and who wrote a popular book on the military and Christian scenes of the Peninsular campaign, gives the following testimony: -

'During more than two years of my connection with the Potomac army I was most intimately acquainted with a large number of the chaplains in that service, and, with few exceptions, they were very excellent men, and, in spite of the difficulties of their position, accomplished an amount of good that never can be told. When sickness came, they were the most patient and sympathizing of nurses and friends. Their words of faith and loyalty cheered the soldiers in their long marches and on entering into battle. As a general thing, their office and character brought them into more intimate communion with the troops than any other officers, and the men felt that the chaplain was the link that bound them still to their homes, their churches, and their other's house.

And to the wounded and dying on the battle-field they were like angels sent of God. Many a dying soldier have I seen, with his hand grasping that of the chaplain as the friend to whom he clung in his last moments with the greatest confidence; and the presence and words of the good man encouraged and blessed the departing hero.

His work, from the nature of the case, could not find place in bulletins and despatches from the field, but was no less valuable because thus unheralded.

The various Christian agencies produced the most happy and beneficent results.

The Christian sentiment of the loyal States was elicited to sustain the Government and to relieve and benefit our brave men of the army and navy. The Government was called on to confess and express its dependence upon God for support, and to manifest deep interest for the moral and religious welfare of our gallant defenders. The Home and the Church have been brought to the men in the field, and cheering, consoling intelligence from the men in the field to the Home and the Church. Thousands of lives have been saved to the country and to loving home-circles. Thousands have been led to the Saviour, and hundreds of thousands comforted, instructed, and cheered in the hour of agony, despondency, or death.

The army felt it was engaged in a most holy cause, and the inspirations of religion and righteousness imparted faith, courage, and resolution, in the protracted and terrible struggle for the life of the republic and its free institutions against the rebellion.

No army was ever set on foot so thoroughly imbued with enlightened religious sentiment as ours. The Crimean army, with its Hedley Vickars, and the large class of devout soldiers of whom he was a type, the Indian army, with its Havelock, the Puritan hosts of Cromwell, are no exceptions. The respect of our soldiers for the Sabbath, their family altars in messes, their prayer-meetings, their devout observance of religious ordinances, and the numerous instances which have occurred even of conversions in the camp, are circumstances which fill the Christian heart with delight. Whole companies have been devoted, with prayer and self-consecration, to God's peculiar service.

The nation owe the heroic and patriotic men of the army and navy a boundless debt of gratitude, and theirs is the honor and imperishable glory of saving, under God, the republic, and handing it down to future ages. Let the meed of praise be given to the living, and a nation's tears and gratitude to the memories of the hundred thousand fallen in battle.

6.4) The Loyal Women

Of the Northern States, during the great conflict, in their unselfish and ceaseless works of patriotism and piety, received the following tribute from a leading religious journal: -

It is inspiring to see the abounding and ever-increasing enthusiasm of the intelligent Christian women of the North for the triumph of liberty, righteousness, and truth, in that momentous national controversy now coming at last to a conclusion and settlement through the dread and final arbitrament of battle. What multitudes of women have met during the last two years, in private houses, vestries, churches, with spontaneous alacrity hastening together to prepare beforehand for the wants of the wounded, or for the comfort and relief of the sick, in the campaign that is imminent! How many, with far more signal exhibition of their love for the right, have sent their own husbands, brothers, sons, into the field, or have bidden their betrothed go forth undaunted in the cause of God and their native land! How many pastors, preaching on the great and urgent theme and pouring their full souls into their message, have been encouraged, reinforced, lifted to higher levels of feeling, penetrated with more fervent and powerful conviction, by the responses they have met from the voices or the faces of those whose delicacy has been heretofore more conspicuous than their daring, and into whose dwelling no sound of strife was ever admitted! It is one of the most remarkable phenomena in that whole series of astonishing wonders which we have of late been permitted to see.

Yet there is reason for this; and the fact has a vast and deep significance. Women have reason to love the land which is their ample, bounteous home. They have reason to value the social system which cherishes and guards them with its chiefest care. They have reason to prize the great institutions of civil and religious freedom, which furnish them with the richest means of culture and advancement, which open to them the most varied paths to happiness and usefulness. No civilization that has ever existed on the face of the earth has had a larger, so large a claim on the love and loyalty of virtuous women as that which we have here enjoyed, - that which now is threatened and assailed by the headstrong violence and the vindictive passion of the Southern slave-masters. It is well, therefore, that women should rally to contribute their part to maintain it, - well and fit that they should give all that God enables them to give in defence of a past so glorious as ours, in defence of a present so sheltering and benign. They would be unmindful of the sources of their own highest prosperity, or ungrateful for the blessings that hitherto have distilled each day and hour upon them and their children, except they did this!

But there is yet another relation of this wide-sweeping, spontaneous enthusiasm, inspiring to contemplate. It indicates and vindicates the holiness of the cause in which our whole vast Northern force is now engaged. The moral instincts of such a multitude of Christian women could not possibly have been enlisted or conciliated by any enterprise of ambition or aggression, by any expedition prompted by desire of territorial expansion or of martial renown. Rather from such a scheme or purpose, however plausibly advanced and advocated, such is the Christian culture of the sex in our land and in our time, they would have been instantaneously repelled. As one immense, unconquerable host they would have set themselves in the way of its progress, and with infallible certainty have arrested it. It is because they, whose moral instincts are finer and more sensitive than man's, whose moral judgments are more immediate and more authoritative, whose souls stand nearer to God and to his Son, nearer the cross, nearer the crown, - it is because they know and feel that this now coming and imminent war, however protracted, fierce, and terrific it may be, is still to be a war for freedom, for truth, for the gospel, for the coming Christian civilization of the land, for the coming hope and glory of mankind, therefore it is that they rise to the height of the sacrifice it demands; that they give to it the verdict of enthusiastic acceptance; that they dedicate themselves already not only to the mitigating of the sufferings it must cause, but to the furnishing of the ranks with their recruits, of the soldiers with their equipments, of the whole army with their own temper of intrepid, self-denying, and heroic faith.

God bless forever the worthy daughters of the glorious and ever-honored Revolutionary mothers!

Two thousand women of St. Louis, Missouri, entered into the following

6.4.1) Pledge.

We, the undersigned women of St. Louis, believing that in this hour of national peril to our country every influence, moral as well as military, should be brought to bear in the great struggle for national existence against a rebellion as crafty as it is wicked, and that while our fathers, husbands, sons, and brothers are giving their treasure and blood, it is our duty to contribute the influence God has given us in our social sphere to the same holy cause, and that in this solemn crisis loyalty is bound to be outspoken, even in the case of women, as truly as loyalty to our God:

We, therefore, do constitute ourselves as an association, to be known as the Ladies' National League of St. Louis, and do pledge our unconditional adherence to our national Government in its struggle against the present rebellion, engaging to assist it by whatever means may be in our power, in the maintenance of our national Union and the integrity of our national domain.

To this end, we do further resolve and pledge ourselves to encourage and sustain our brave soldiers by acts of kindness and patriotic cheer; to use every fitting opportunity of expressing our unflinching determination to stand by our dear old flag and to honor those who fight in its defence until the day of sure and permanent triumph; and to prove, in whatever way we can, that loyalty to our country forms a part of our allegiance to God.

The loyal women of New York formed an association and passed the following resolutions: -

We, the undersigned, women of the United States, agree to become members of the "Women's Loyal National League," hereby pledging our most earnest influence in support of the Government in its prosecution of the war for freedom and for the restoration of the national unity.

Resolved, That for the present this League will concentrate all its efforts upon the single object of procuring to be signed by one million women and upward, and of preparing for presentation to Congress within the first week of its next session, a petition in the following words, to wit: -

6.4.2) To The Senate and House of Representatives of the United States.

The undersigned, women of the United States, above the age of eighteen years, earnestly pray that your honorable body will pass, at the earliest practicable day, an act emancipating all persons of African descent held to involuntary service or labor in the United States.

Resolved, That, in furtherance of the above object, the Executive Committee of this League be instructed to cause to be prepared and stereotyped a pamphlet, not exceeding four printed octavo pages, briefly and plainly setting forth the importance of such a movement at the present juncture, a copy of the said pamphlet to be placed in the hands of each person who may undertake to procure signatures to the above petition, and for such further distribution as may be ordered by the said Executive Committee.

A "Loyal Women's League" was formed in Hartford, Connecticut, the members pledging themselves to "encourage and sustain our brave soldiers by constant tokens of love, but still more by the expression of a cheerful and unflinching determination to stand by the dear old flag till the day of its triumph, be it near or remote," and so to instruct their children, and all who may be dependent upon them, that "they may grow into such filial reverence for this best of all governments as shall make them always patriots, never mere partisans." These true-hearted women also declare that they will "in all ways endeavor to create such a sentiment of devoted loyalty in the circles in which they move, that no traitor to liberty, or cowardly recreant, shall utter his sentiments in their presence unrebuked." In token of their loyalty, they have determined to wear publicly a Union badge "until the day of our national triumph."

The loyal women of Philadelphia received the following tribute, for their devotion to the soldiers and the country, from the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, New-School, which met in that city, May, 1863: -

Resolved, That the Assembly hereby express their high admiration of the manner in which the ladies of Philadelphia have contributed, and are contributing, to the comfort of the soldiers who pass through this city, and of those who return as sick and suffering to its hospitals, and that as citizens of the country, and in behalf of those whom we specially represent, we present to these ladies our hearty thanks.

"The politicians are not the great workers in a war of ideas and principles like ours. Noble women, now, as ever, are the great workers, the great feelers, the great hopers, the great lovers, who keep up the morale of men and create the atmosphere which their spirits breathe. Leaving the actual army-work out of the account, they do actually more than the men."

The leading journals of the Northern States, both political and religious, during the great conflict, and especially on the observance of the days of fasting and prayer and of thanks-giving designated by the Government, exerted a wide-spread and beneficent influence in diffusing and strengthening the Christian element, and in pervading the rulers and people of the republic with a just sense of their responsibilities to God. They discussed the religious aspects of the war, reviewed and rebuked the sins of the nation which they stated were the causes of the just judgments of God, exhorted the people to humiliation and repentance, advocated the fundamental principles of the Bible and an obedience to the laws of God as the only true basis of national existence and prosperity, and proclaimed the great truth that God must be honored and recognized in all governmental and political transactions as well as in the social and private walks of life, if the nation would be saved and preserved in its institutions and integrity. Extracts from the elaborate editorials of leading journals, on those great Christian principles which underlie all civil institutions, had been prepared for this volume; but the limits of the work forbid their record. It is, however, an important historic fact that the loyal political papers and all the Christian journals of the country exerted a powerful and a healthful influence in developing and diffusing the religious element.

6.5) The Ministers

Of religion, of all denominations, throughout the loyal States, in the great crisis of the nation, were, with but few exceptions, true to freedom and the country. Their pulpits were pillars of moral support and strength to the Government, and their influence aided effectively and powerfully in the suppression of the rebellion. Loyalty to the Government was a religious duty, which they in their sermons and examples inculcated upon their congregations and diffused through the nation. Many of them went into the army; and no class of men made greater sacrifices to save the republic and to purify and preserve the Government in its integrity and unity. The fundamental principles of Christianity, as related to civil government and political policies, and to the causes that brought on and sustained the rebellion, were by them thoroughly unfolded and applied, and thus pure and wide currents of Christian influences flowed over all the interests and through every department of the nation. A few illustrations of their earnest patriotism and piety can only be given in this volume.

An association of evangelical ministers of Cincinnati, in the summer of 1861, discussed the question, "How can ministers best serve the interests of our country at the present crisis?" and presented their views in the following paper: -

Deeply grateful to Almighty God, our heavenly Father, for his past mercies to this nation, and particularly noting at this time his gracious goodness in leading our fathers to establish and preserve for us a constitutional government unequalled among the governments of the earth in guarding the rights and promoting the entire welfare of a great people, we, the evangelical ministry of Cincinnati, have been led by a constraining sense of accountability to him, the Author of all our good, and by unfeigned love for our country, to adopt the following statement and resolutions: -

We are compelled to regard the rebellion which now afflicts our land and jeopardizes some of the most precious hopes of mankind as the result of a long-contemplated and wide-spread conspiracy against the principles of liberty, justice, mercy, and righteousness proclaimed in the word of God, sustained by our constitutional Government, and lying at the foundation of all public and private welfare. In the present conflict, therefore, our Government stands before us as representing the cause of God and man, against a rebellion threatening the nation with ruin in order to perpetuate and spread a system of unrighteous oppression. In this emergency, as ministers of God, we cannot hesitate to support, by every legitimate method, the Government in maintaining its authority unimpaired throughout the whole country and over this whole people: therefore,

Resolved, 1. That all Christian ministers and people should be exhorted to unite their fervent supplications to the God of our fathers for his protection of the Government formed under his approving providence, without which neither an empire rises nor a sparrow falls.

2. That the interests of our country demand of all good citizens a firm, united, and loyal support of the Government in destroying the armed rebellion which has risen against it.

3. That, as ministers of the gospel, we will co-operate with the chaplains of the army, so far as we may, in securing regular services of divine worship in camps and hospitals, the freest circulation of a healthful religious literature, especially of the word of God and the happy influence of the Sabbath among the soldiers.

4. That we should be admonished by the present judgment of Almighty God to call upon our nation to repent of the sin of oppression, with all those other vices for which he has thus entered into controversy with us, so that iniquity may not be our ruin.

5. That we will remember, and seek also to impress upon the public mind, that those with whom the Government is thus brought into conflict are our brethren, - misguided and criminal, but still our brethren, towards whom we should maintain the spirit of compassion and kindness even while waging war against them.

6. That, with humble faith, we fearlessly commit the issue of this conflict to the just and gracious God who presides over the destinies of nations, assured that in the answer to the prayers of his people he will cause the wrath of man to praise him and restrain the remainder thereof, until he sends forth judgment unto victory, and the work of righteousness be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness, and assurance forever.

The following address "On the Christian's Duty in the Present Crisis," is by Bishop McIlvaine, of the Episcopal Church, who is distinguished for his catholic Christian spirit towards all denominations, and for his influence in this country and in England. He visited England during the great conflict, and exerted a wide-spread influence in favor of the cause of the Government and of the loyal States in suppressing the rebellion. The address was published in 1861: -

War is upon us, - the worst, the most horrid, the most calamitous and sorrowful of all wars, - not only civil war, but civil war in circumstances beyond precedent painful and productive of all the bitterest passions of man's evil nature. The cloud is exceedingly dark. But it reaches not to heaven. God's light is behind it, however hid. His ways, however unsearchable, and "a great deep" to our eye, are in wisdom and goodness; and still "God is our refuge, and a very present help in trouble." But what is our duty? I mean the duty of disciples of Christ, - ours as members of Christ's Church, having brethren in Christ everywhere, - in the States now in array against us, and even in the army now perhaps on the march against us?

First. Our duty is clearly, solemnly, steadily, patiently, bravely, earnestly, to sustain our Government. There is no room for hesitation here. Whatever may be said of persons or localities, or sections of people, our Government has not provoked this war, the country has not. We are pro patria, for our beloved country, - not Ohio, not this State or that, not north, or east, or west, but our country, and our Government as the only representative of our country. All duty says so. And what we are and do in the discharge of this duty should be zealous, devoted, self-sacrificing, undaunted.

But, secondly, in what spirit as Christians? There is no necessity of coming down in the least from all that pertains to Christian spirit in the discharge of such duty, wherever it may carry us. Good soldiers, especially soldiers standing for their homes and institutions, repelling invasion, encircling around their Government, contending for the Union, have no need to borrow a spirit not their own. There need be no unhallowed passions, no spirit of bitter revenge, no cultivation of hate, no ceasing to pray for enemies, no passing away of actual kindness and readiness to do good to those arrayed against us, whenever duty, loyalty to our own cause, does not prevent. Especially with those who stay at home and do not plunge into the actual conflict, - the great mass of praying, loving, Christian people, - the highest measure of loyalty and of stern determination to sustain the Government is perfectly consistent with the cherishing in their hearts of all the tempers and spirit, the charities, the kindness, the doing good to them that may hate us, the praying for those who would "despitefully use us," which our blessed gospel requires.

Under these general views, what is duty?

1. Let us keep our hearts with all diligence, with special effort to prevent the encroachment of a war feeling and excitement upon the proper domain of the Spirit of God within you. The danger is great. These strong excitements carry away the mind as with a flood. They overwhelm us, unless our dikes be well kept. Duty to God, the duty of a devotional mind, the duty of prayer, secret and daily and regular and spiritual, remains. Eternity is only the nearer. God's blessing and favor are only, if possible, the more needful. The more exciting the crisis, the more the need of God. If we want an army in the field with carnal weapons, we want also, and for the same cause, an army at the throne of grace, taking hold, by constant prayer, on the arm of the only real strength. In that army, while the other is composed only of those between certain ages, and it must exclude the aged, the feeble, - in that army all can be marshalled; the praying child, the praying woman, the heart on a sick-bed, tottering age, - all can contend in that, and make a great and mighty host before God, holding up the hands of those who go to the battle, praying for the blessings of peace, union, stability, and brotherly love. Let us keep our hearts with all diligence, that we may thus keep ourselves at the throne of grace. Never were praying people more needed in our country than now.

2. Let us watch against the growth in our hearts of all bitterness of spirit against those whom we must now call (most painful as it is) our enemies. Many there are whom we must thus place under that name who are enemies to us only because their cause is against ours, while the bonds of Christian charity and real brotherly love of Christian brethren towards us are not broken. I believe that most truly. So it is, and must be, among us towards them. It is awful to be thus arrayed, brother against brother. No greater affliction could come. It must not be made more awful, so far as religious people can help it, by the kindling of fires of evil passion, which the cause on neither side demands, and by which any cause must be disgraced. Let us stand by the right, but righteously, in the right mind, in the spirit of those whose rule of mind is the word of God, and who desire to "approve themselves unto God" and to have his blessing.

3. Let us still seek peace, and the measures that make for peace. The President seeks peace, and has done nothing inconsistent with his profession of a pacific spirit and aim. Let us seek it also, and, while preparing for war, still cherish the hope and the spirit of peace. We may not see the way by which, consistently with what we ought to maintain, peace can now be restored. But let us remember that we see but little of the ways and power of God. Our hope of peace is not destroyed because our eyes cannot detect its path or our Chief Magistrate and his counsellors cannot devise the means of obtaining it. The, Lord reigneth. God is our refuge. "He hath his way in the sea, and his path in the mighty waters." When the disciples of Christ were on the billows, tempest-tossed, they knew not any path on those waves by which their Master could reach them. It was "the fourth watch of the night." But he had a path in the sea, and they saw him walking therein, and he came to them, and the waves were still. If there be no way of peace, God can make one by dividing the sea. We are not hopeless of peace because we cannot tell how it could be brought about. Let us still hope, and still pray. With arms in hand let us do so. God be with us! God preserve and guide our counsellors, our Governors, our President. May they all learn humbly to feel and acknowledge their dependence on him for wisdom and strength. May the godless-ness which has too long disgraced our public councils and affairs be cast away. May our President seek his help in God, and his Cabinet ask wisdom where only it is to be found, and our legislators know that God's blessing is worth their seeking.

Bishop McIlvaine, in a second address, in 1863, to the clergy and laity of the diocese of Ohio, uttered similar sentiments. "We long," says he, "for such peace as the permanent interests of law and order, of justice and right, will permit our Government to seek and accept."

An important part of the bishop's address of 1863 is taken up with the statements of the Right Rev. James Henry Otey, D.D., LL.D., late Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Tennessee. Bishop Otey said, in 1861, "I am well satisfied that the majority of the people in the seceding States, if their voice could be fairly heard, would speak loudly in favor of Union."

That which I fear most of all is, that God is about to visit us, and deservedly, for our national sins and ingratitude. The only foundation of my hope is that "the Lord reigneth." Oh, there is comfort in that declaration, precious, full, and abiding! Let what changes in government and overthrow of institutions come that may, we shall be safe under the shadow of His wings who "ruleth in the armies of heaven, and doeth all his pleasure among the inhabitants of the earth."

Dr. Stephen H. Tyng, pastor of one of the largest and most influential churches in the city of New York, in a sermon preached on fast-day, April 30, 1863, reflected the loyalty and sentiments of the American ministers on the great issues of the conflict. It was entitled "Christian Loyalty" and was founded on a passage expressive of the loyalty and love of the Hebrew people for their institutions and nationality. Brief extracts only can be given.

"By the riven of Babylon, there we sat down. Yea, we wept when we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy."- Psalm cxxxvii. 1, 2, 5, 6.

This (said Dr. Tyng) is the patriot's devotion to his country. It is a living spirit in his heart. It clings to his own land and people in their lowest depression as truly as in their highest prosperity. It is living and active within him, to whatever contumely and reproach it may expose him.

1. My loyalty to Jerusalem is my love of her people. I am loyal to my nation. I will never give my consent to its dismemberment or its separation. I cling to the one Federal American people, - not to a confederacy of States, but to a consolidated nation. I desire not to live to see a disunion of them for any reasons or upon any terms. ... My loyalty is to the United States of America, that great federal nation, which, wherever scattered or however collected, have dwelt together under one glorious government, as one perpetual, indivisible people. . . . Be one people; be one nation. . . . Let Jerusalem be still a city at unity in itself, encircled with the walls of a common defence from foes abroad and bound together for a united subjugation of traitors at home.

2. My loyalty to Jerusalem is my love for her territory. I love my country; I love it with an intense affection. Every part of it is equally mine, and equally dear to me. I am a citizen of the United States. I will acknowledge no Northern rights nor Southern rights. I have a fee simple, indisputable right in every portion of this soil, from sea to sea, as a citizen of this nation. I will never consent to give it up. I am a citizen of the whole. I have a right to a domicil, a protected home, throughout the whole, which I will never yield. To separate this glorious hard-earned land, to divide it, to disintegrate it, cut it up, parcel it out to a set of wild conflicting provinces, farm it out to the ambition of petty contending satraps, gaining in blood a short-lived triumph, is a degradation and a social atrocity to which I will never consent. . ."

Let the land of your fathers, the sacred revered abode of a nation of freemen, be transmitted, unbroken, solid, entire, untarnished, to the children who succeed you. Die, if it must be so, for it, but never give it up.

3. My loyalty to Jerusalem is my love for the freedom which she has established. Men may call the testimonies of her Declaration of Independence a tissue of "glittering generalities," when they have no affinity with the liberty which it proclaims and no sympathy with the grandly humanizing influence which it is designed and destined to exercise. To my mind, it stands on the highest platform of uninspired testimonies. In it the noblest emotions, aspirations, sentiments, and principles of the heart of man speak out in golden, crystal sounds. "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed." What nobler testimony for human freedom or human exaltation was ever given? When did the representative mind of progressive, rising humanity ever announce its convictions and its purposes in a loftier strain or in a grander formula? . . . Never yield this priceless inheritance of human liberty; never sacrifice by any compromise the unrestricted, universal freedom of your nation; never consent to any arrangement in which you may not look back upon your fathers' line and home, and still triumphant say, "Jerusalem, the mother of us all, is free."

4. My loyalty to Jerusalem is my love for her Constitution, Jerusalem had her glorious constitution from the Divine gift, - a book in the hands of every one, to be read at home, to be studied by children, to be talked of by the way. America has received her Constitution from the gracious providence of God, - the grand result of ages of human experience and observation, - the admired shape and cast of man's wisdom among the nations of the earth.

Never was there a more majestic exhibition of sovereign power; never was there a more honorable display of mutual concession and self-restraint.

Such is the American Constitution, - a beautiful machinery of intellectual conception and of moral influence, working with its powers and restraints, its checks and balances, its provisions and prohibitions, in a thoroughly adjusted harmony, and in remarkable order and grandeur of operation. . . . Never give up this contest for the Constitution. Compel this rebellion to submit to its authority. And, if you must perish, perish nobly maintaining the peerless cause of liberty, government, and order.

6. My loyalty to Jerusalem is my love for her government. Her Constitution is the charter of her government, the fixed and final scheme arranged for its construction and its perpetual control. . . .

I love this Government. I love it in its origin. I love it in its simplicity. I love it in its supremacy. I love it in its individuality. I love it in its constitutional strength. I love it in its personal power, determination, and will. It combines for me all the possible freedom of liberty for the many consistent with order and tranquillity for the whole, and the vast security of absolute authority in an ultimate ruler from whom there is no appeal. It seems to me to have gathered the gems from all regions to make this new, last crown of a monarchical people, - a ruling nation.

To my nation, to my country, to the principle of freedom, to the Constitution, to the Government, while I live, will I be faithful; and, however depressed or downcast or desponding may be the incidents and elements of the day, even though in captivity I sit by the rivers of Babylon, I will never forget, dishonor, or deny the Jerusalem I have loved, beneath whose shade I have grown and been refreshed, and with whose sons and daughters I have gone to the house of God and found sweet delight. Still in prayer for my beloved country will I look up to the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Dr. Byron Sunderland, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Washington City, and chaplain of the Senate of the United States, preached a sermon on the national fast-day, April 30, 1863, entitled "The Crisis of the Times," which was heard by an immense audience, and published by an "Association of patriotic citizens" and widely circulated through the country. The following is an extract: -

When the ship of state, freighted as it is with all our memories and all our hopes, lies tossing in the tempest, - when it is no longer a question of policy or preference as between rival parties and candidates in time of peace, but a deeper, broader, more vital question of the triumph of the Government and the conscience of the American people over a system of usurpation and despotism sustained by an organised and armed rebellion against them, - now, when a fierce and bloody attempt is made to undermine the very foundations of social order and to pull down the noblest structure of empire the sun has ever shone upon, and to sunder a land that was once most happy in all the arts and industries of advancing civilization, and to blot out from the face of the globe the unity of a mighty nation, and to impair forever the greatness and the usefulness of a people among whom the Divine principals and precepts of Christianity itself have had their freest and their noblest scope, - would it not be thought a thing incredible that the Christian people and the Christian ministry of this land should stand aloof, should manifest a deep and profound indifference, should undertake to live and act and preach and speak and think and feel as though there were no war and no judgment of God among us whatever? And all this, too, while the whole history of the nation hitherto has been marked by one continued succession of providential interpositions for deliverance, one constant series of examples of the presence and influence of the Christian element in working out our national destiny! Without Christianity, the story of America could never have been told, - these manifold and mighty monuments which cover the land could never have been reared. None but God can tell the effect of Christian prayer and fidelity in the testimony of Christian truth upon the fortunes of this nation. And now, in such a land, with such a record and such a prospect, and in such a condition, when we feel and know that blows are being struck which, if not repelled, must not only destroy our civil heritage, but also roll back the chariot of human salvation for a thousand years, can the disciples and ministers of this religion, which has more than all other things made the land a blessing, be excused from the duties and trials which now rest upon the nation? Nay, do you not look to the Christian sentiment and opinion of this country for countenance and support ? Do you not rely on the loyalty and the prayers of the Christian people of this country as constituting, under God, the firmest and most unwavering prop and pillar of the nation's strength? If this be so, then I am here to declare, in the name of the Christian Church, and of all that follow the great Head of the Church in this land, that as they haye never, heretofore, been found wanting in the hour of the country's need, so they will now not be found wanting. For, when it comes to this, the old religion which has for eighteen hundred years produced the heroes and martyrs of the world, will rise again and lead her mighty processions into the thickest of the contest. And not until the Church of Christ has been utterly overthrown, and not until her last prayer goes out and her last soul is offered up on the altar of expiring liberty, will it be time for men to say, "there is no longer any hope." And not until then can the cause of America, which we believe to be the cause of human nature everywhere, be ruined. And for this reason it is that in the name of the Church we lift up our voice, cry aloud and spare not, showing the people their sins and transgressions. The Christian mind of this nation beholds the spectacle we now present with a feeling of the deepest solemnity and the most painful suspense. The Christian mind of this nation interprets the afflictions we are suffering now, as the judgments of God for our moral obliquity. It holds that there is a righteousness which exalteth a nation, while sin is a reproach to any people. It holds that in a crisis like this there is but one inspiration that can carry us through in triumph, and that is the inspiration of the Almighty. It holds that among the first signs of the presence of such an inspiration is the general return of the people to sobriety and virtue; and therefore it views with pain and grief, with apprehension and alarm, the almost universal reign of vice, vulgarity, and impurity. And because the nation has been so long blind and indifferent to the principles of truth, and so long disobedient to the authority of God, he has not only kindled the fire of this furnace, but he is adding fuel to the flames, and holding us in them, that we may be either purified or consumed. That is the issue now before us, - purification or destruction. It is comparatively of little account what may be the tidings from the great sieges or the battle-fields of our military or naval operations, what may be the condition of the currency or the result of local elections, or, indeed, what may be the daily contingencies or details that fall out to us in the history of this great time; but the true question is, whether amid all these millions of human beings a sufficient number may be found upon whom the inspiration of the Almighty has descended, to render it consistent with his most gracious purpose and with the character of his supreme government over men, to interpose and give us the victory. If this point in the moral and religious condition of the American people can be attained, then we have no fear for the remainder. The same power that delivered the Hebrew nation with a high hand and a stretched-out arm, the same power that shielded the people of the Netherlands against the combined attack of the greatest potentates of the time in Europe, the same power that brought our fathers through the bloody baptism of the Revolution, and gave to them, to bequeath to us, their children, this glorious inheritance, will thunder for us along all our lines of battle, and put our enemies to rout and confusion forever.

Back to top

7) The Day of Fasting and Prayer

Appointed by the President, on Thursday, April 30, 1863, the proclamation for which is on the 558th page of this volume, was memorable in its Christian influence through the loyal States. Stirring and timely truths were preached in the pulpits, which tended greatly to impress the public mind and conscience with religious sentiments and responsibility to God, and to urge the people and all in civil and military authority to repentance and reformation. "We believe," says Bishop Mcllvaine, in an address to the clergy and laity of the Diocese of Ohio, " the day was warmly welcomed by all the religious and patriotic people of the loyal States, and was observed with solemnity and prayerfulness in devout assemblies throughout those portions of our country." The resolution of the Senate requesting the President to appoint a day of fasting and prayer was gratifying to the Christian public especially, because it distinctly recognized Christ as mediator, and the New-School Indianapolis Presbytery, in view of it, passed the following: -

Resolved, That this Presbytery, as an ecclesiastical court, called to witness for Christ before the world, cannot refrain from a public expression of its gratification that the resolutions of the Senate of the United States, asking the appointment by the President of a national fast, make such distinct mention of our Lord Jesus Christ as the Heaven-appointed way of access to God the Father. This recognition of our Divine Mediator by our national authorities is as gratifying and appropriate as it is rare.

The Governors of several States, and the mayors of some of the larger cities and towns, responded to the proclamation of the President by issuing their own.

7.1) Washington City.

Proclamation by the Mayor.

Mayor's Office, April 28, 1863.

The President, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the United States, having set apart a day for national prayer and humiliation, renders needless any thing of a like character from me. As requested in the following joint resolution, my fellow-citizens will doubtless manifest their appreciation of the occasion, as well as their respect for the high authority from whence it emanates, by abstaining from secular employment and an observance of the day as enjoined on us, in common with the whole country, by the proclamation of the President.

Richard Wallace, Mayor.

---

Joint Resolution relative to the observance of Thursday, 30th April, as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer.

Whereas the President of the United States has, by public proclamation, recommended the observance of the 30th instant as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer throughout these United States, and whereas it is meet and proper that we should acknowledge our sins before Almighty God, and pray that the evils of civil war be removed from us: therefore

Be it Resolved, That the Mayor be, and is hereby, requested to issue his proclamation inviting and enjoining upon the citizens of Washington the observance of this day as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, and requesting the suspension of all secular business on that day.

Alex. R. Shepherd, 
President of the Board of Common Council.

Joseph F. Brown, 
President of the Board of Aldermen.

Approved, April 28, 1863.

Richard Wallace, Mayor.

7.2) Order by the Military Governor of the District of Columbia.

General Orders, No. 15.

Head-Quarters Military District of Washington, 
Washington, D.C., April 29, 1868.

In compliance with the proclamation of the President of the United States, Thursday, the 30th of April instant, will be observed by officers and men in this command as a day of fasting and humiliation.

Within the limits of the city of Washington and the District of Columbia, the orders regulating the transaction of business and closing of shops, stores, and bars on Sunday will be applicable to Thursday, the 30th instant, and will be observed accordingly and enforced.

The President's proclamation devoutly recognizes the existence and presence of Almighty God. It is impossible that such a Being should not be interested in the affairs of men. No further appeal ought to be necessary to those who publicly profess a Christian faith.

But to others, who are inclined to ask, "What good can be gamed by fasting?'' the commanding general, while desiring their respectful co-operation in the observance of the day, suggests to them the following answer: -

1. They will thereby manifest a soldierly respect to a recommendation which comes to them from the Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States; and the company or regiment most imbued with that quality of respect affords signal evidence that it possesses the highest fighting quality.

2. A soldier who is moved to the performance of his duty in battle or elsewhere by the inspiration of God's presence in the mind and purposes will be incited by an influence of immense power.

Not the miraculous interposition of Divine agency, but the infusion of new determination and earnestness into our own hearts, will be the consequence, in the rudest minds, of our honest and manly observance of the fast recommended by the President.

A whole nation stimulated and exalted by such influences would be irresistible.

By command of Brigadier-General Martindale.

John P. Sherbourne, A. A. G.

7.3) GOVERNOR OF NEW YORK.

The President of the United States having set apart the last Thursday of April as a day of national prayer, fasting, and humiliation, I, Horatio Seymour, Governor of the State of New York, do recommend that the day be observed throughout the State with suitable religious solemnities.

Humbly acknowledging the manifold offences of our rulers and people, let us humiliate ourselves before Almighty God, and fervently pray that our sins may be forgiven. Acknowledging our dependence upon his powers and mercy, let us put away pride and ingratitude, malice and uncharitableness, and implore him to deliver our land from seditious fury, conspiracy, and rebellion, and to restore the blessings of peace, concord, and union to the several States of our distracted and afflicted country.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto affixed the privy seal of the State, at the city of Albany, the 27th day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three.

Horatio Seymour.

By the Governor:

R. B. Miller, Jr., Private Secretary.

7.4) Mayor of New York.

Whereas the President of the United States, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate, has issued his proclamation, setting apart Thursday, the 30th day of April, 1863, as a day of national humiliation, fasting, and prayer; and

Whereas the scourge of civil war which is now desolating our country and changing many of its happy homes into abodes of sorrow renders such solemn service peculiarly appropriate at the present time:

Now, therefore, in official recognition of said proclamation and its just and timely admonitions to the nation, I do hereby request that all the public offices in this city be closed on that day, and that the people, refraining from all secular pursuits, devote themselves with humble and contrite spirits to the religious duties suitable to the occasion.

Given under my hand and the seal of the Mayoralty, at the City Hall, in the city of New York, this twenty-seventh day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three.

George Opdyke, Mayor.

7.5) Mayor of Brooklyn.

Mayor's Office, Tuesday, April 28, 1863.

Thursday, the 30ih day of April, 1863, having been set apart by the President of the United States, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate, as a day of national humiliation, fasting, and prayer, in accordance therewith I do hereby direct that the various public offices of the city be closed on that day; and I respectfully recommend, also, that our citizens on that day refrain, as far as may be, from the pursuit of their ordinary business avocations. The suffering and misery and humiliation which during the past two years have fallen upon us as a nation would seem to render an earnest and universal appeal to the Divine mercy from us, as a people, especially a duty at this time; and I doubt not that the recommendation of the President will be appropriately responded to by our citizens.

Martin Kalbfleisch, Mayor,

7.6) Mayor of Cincinnati.

Now, therefore, in pursuance thereof, believing that our cause is just and righteous, feeling that in these times of trial to our beloved country we should humble ourselves before the Almighty in fasting and in prayer, ask his forgiveness for our sinfulness in the past and implore His blessings and favor upon the future, I earnestly desire all citizens to observe the day thus appointed by our Chief Magistrate in a becoming and reverent manner, and that all places of business and amusement shall then be closed.

Len. A. Harris, Mayor of Cincinnati,

Cincinnati, April 28, 1863.

7.7) Mayor of Philadelphia.

Whereas the President of the United States, being moved thereto by the Federal Senate, has set apart Thursday next, the 30th day of April, as a day of national humiliation, fasting, and prayer; and whereas we have cause, as a people, to take shame to ourselves before all nations and before Almighty God that we have misused the civil blessings wherewith we have been signally favored, by setting at naught the wisdom of our fathers, betraying the trust of self-government, winking at unfaithfulness and corruption in high places, and giving ourselves to selfishness and disregard of ourselves as citizens:

Therefore it becomes us earnestly to beseech him that he will enlighten us to the honest discharge of our duties as freemen; that he will keep steadfast within us a true devotion to our country, to the confusion of all traitors and workers of sedition; that he will endow our rulers with wisdom and firmness, and that he will lead our hosts and give them strength in the conflict, that they may prevail over all rebellion. And I do hereby call upon the people of this city to keep such appointed day by foregoing the usual pursuits, closing their places of employment, and presenting themselves, after their respective manner of worship, before the Most High God; that, acknowledging his supreme power, and the righteousness of the judgments that he has visited upon our land, we may implore him mercifully to withhold his corrections from us, and give us welfare and peace through the speedy overthrow of all who resist the lawful authority of our national Government.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the city of Philadelphia to be affixed, this twenty-seventh day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three.

Alexander Henry, Mayor of Philadelphia.

Back to top

8) Thanksgiving-Days for Victories.

As a Christian nation, it has been the uniform practice of the civil authorities, when signal blessings were received or important victories obtained, to issue proclamations of thanksgiving and praise to Almighty God. During the winter and spring of 1862 important victories were won by the armies of the United States, at Mill Spring, Kentucky, at Fort Donelson and Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, and at Pea Ridge, Missouri. In view of these victories, Congress passed the following resolution: -

A Resolution giving the Thanks of Congress to the Officers, Soldiers, and Seamen of the Army and Navy, for their gallantry in the recent brilliant victories over the enemies of the Union and the Constitution.

Resolved, by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Slates of America, in Congress assembled, That the thanks of Congress are due, and are hereby tendered, to the officers, soldiers, and seamen of the Army and Navy of the United States, for the heroic gallantry that, under the providence of Almighty God, has won the recent series of brilliant victories over the enemies of the Union and Constitution.

Approved, February 22, 1862.

The President and Secretary of War issued the following papers: -

A Proclamation.

Washington, April 10, 1862.

It has pleased Almighty God to vouchsafe signal victories to the land and naval forces engaged in suppressing an internal rebellion, and at the same time to avert from our country the dangers of foreign intervention and invasion. It is, therefore, recommended to the people of the United States that at their next weekly assemblages in their accustomed places of worship which shall occur after the notice of this proclamation shall have been received, that they especially acknowledge and render thanks to our heavenly Father for these inestimable blessings; that they then and there implore spiritual consolation in behalf of all those who have been brought into affliction by the casualties and calamities of sedition and civil war; and that they reverently invoke the Divine guidance for our national councils, to the end that they may speedily result in the restoring of peace and harmony and unity throughout our borders, and hasten the establishment of fraternal relations among all the countries of the earth.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the city of Washington, this 10th day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two.

(Signed) Abraham Lincoln.

WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, April 9, 1862. 

Order 1. That at meridian of the Sunday next after the reception of this order, at the head-quarters of every regiment in the armies of the United States, there shall be offered by its chaplain a prayer, giving thanks to the Lord of Hosts for the recent manifestations of his power in the overthrow of the rebels and traitors, and invoking the continuance of his aid in delivering this nation, by the arms of patriotic soldiers, from the horrors of treason, rebellion, and civil war.

E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War,

The Secretary of War expressed the following sentiments: -

The glory of our recent victories belongs to the gallant officers and soldiers that fought the battles. No share of it belongs to me.

Much has recently been said of military combinations and organizing victories. I hear such phrases with apprehension. They commenced in infidel France with the Italian campaign, and resulted in Waterloo. Who can organize victory? Who can combine the elements of success on the battle-field? We owe our recent victories to the Spirit of the Lord, that moved our soldiers to rush into battle and filled the hearts of our enemies with terror and dismay. The inspiration that conquered in battle was in the hearts of the soldiers and from on high; and wherever there is the same inspiration there will be the same results. Patriotic spirit, with resolute courage, in officers and men, is a military combination that never failed.

We may well rejoice at the recent victories, for they teach us that battles are to be won now and by us in the same and only manner that they were ever won by any people or in any age since the days of Joshua, - by boldly pursuing and striking the foe. What, under the blessing of Providence, I conceive to be the true organization of victory and military combination to end this war, was declared in a few words by General Grant's message to General Buckner: - "I propose to move immediately upon your works!"

The thanksgiving appointed by the President was generally observed by the Churches in the loyal States. The following was a form used by the Episcopal churches in Ohio: -

To the Clergy of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Ohio,

In obedience to the proclamation of the President of the United States, and responding cordially to his acknowledgment of the good hand of our God upon us in giving victory to our national forces, I hereby appoint and set forth the following collect of thanksgiving, and prayers for the wounded, sick, and dying, and for the bereaved, to be read during divine service in every church within this diocese, on the Sunday after the receipt of this notice, and at other times at the discretion of the minister. Affectionately,

G. T. Bedell, Assistant Bishop in charge.

---

Collect of Thanksgiving after Victory.

To be used before the General Thanksgiving,

(adapted.)

O Almighty God, the Sovereign Commander of all the world, in whose hand is power and might which none is able to withstand, we bless and magnify thy great and glorious name for these late happy victories. The whole glory thereof we do ascribe to thee, who art the only giver of victory. And, we beseech thee, give us grace to improve this great mercy to thy glory, the advancement of thy gospel, the honor of our country, and the speedy re-establishment of such peace as will maintain the supremacy of law, the securities of righteous liberty, and the welfare of the Union. And, we beseech thee, give us such a sense of this great mercy as may engage us to a true thankfulness, such as may appear in our lives by an humble, holy, and obedient walking before thee all our days, through Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom, with thee and the Holy Spirit, as for all thy mercies, so in particular for this victory and deliverance, be all glory and honor, world without end. Amen.

The following is the prayer of thanksgiving for our victories which Bishop Whittingham directed the Episcopal clergy of the Diocese of Maryland to use on all occasions of public worship during the next eight days: -

O Almighty God, the Sovereign Commander of all the world, in whose hand is power and might, which none is able to withstand, we bless and magnify thy great and glorious name for the happy successes which thou hast of late vouchsafed in so many instances to the arms of this nation, and more especially for the deliverance of this city and district from the terrors of blockade and siege. And, we beseech thee, give to us and to all this people grace to use this great mercy shown towards us to thy glory, the advancement of thy gospel, the honor of our country, and, as much as in us lieth, the good of all mankind. Stir up our hearts, Lord, to a true thankfulness, such as may appear in our lives by an humble, holy, and obedient walking before thee all our days, through Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom, with thee, O Father, and thee, Holy Ghost, as for all thy mercies, so in particular for these victories and this deliverance, be all glory and honor, world without end. Amen.

On the first three days of July, 1863, a great victory was won by the army of the United States, under General Meade, over the rebel army under General Lee. Pennsylvania and Maryland were invaded by the army of the rebels, which threatened to capture Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, the capital of the nation. The two armies, each numbering about a hundred thousand men, met on the field of battle at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and a victory, great and important in its immediate and future results, was won by the national army. On the 4th of July, memorable in its historic associations, the news of the defeat of the invading army spread through the nation, and the President of the United States issued the following brief, comprehensive, and Christian address of congratulation to the country: -

Washington, July 4, 10 am., 1863.

The President announces to the country that news from the Army of the Potomac up to ten p.m. of the 3d is such as to cover that army with the highest honor, to promise a great success to the cause of the Union, and to claim the condolence of all for the many gallant fallen, and that for this he especially desires that on this day He whose will, not ours, should ever be done, be everywhere remembered and reverenced with profoundest gratitude.

Abraham Lincoln.

General Meade assumed the command of the Potomac army, by the appointment of the President, on the Sunday previous to this important and decisive battle. In his address to the army on Sabbath, June 28, 1863, he said, -

By direction of the President of the United States, I hereby assume command of the Army of the Potomac. The country looks to this army to release it from the devastation and disgrace of a hostile invasion. Whatever fatigues and sacrifices we may be called upon to undergo, let us have in view constantly the magnitude of the interest involved, and let each man determine to do his duty, leaving to an all-controlling Providence the decision of the contest.

In General Meade these traits crown his conduct, that "no one looks with more favor upon the true Christian who ministers to the spiritual wants of the wounded," and "an humble recognition that victory is of the Lord, and that to him belongs its glory." This is seen in the following order: -

HEAD-QUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, July 4, 1863.

General Order No. 68. - The commanding general, in behalf of the country, thanks the Army of the Potomac for the glorious result of the recent operations.

Our enemy, superior in numbers and flushed with the pride of a deceitful invasion, attempted to overcome or destroy this army. Utterly baffled and defeated, he has now withdrawn from the contest. The privations and fatigues the army has endured, and the heroic courage and gallantry it has displayed, will be matters of history to be ever remembered.

Our task is not yet accomplished; and the commanding general looks to the army for greater efforts to drive from our soil every vestige of the presence of the invader.

It is right and proper that we should, on suitable occasions, return our grateful thanks to the Almighty Disposer of events, that, in the goodness of his providence, he has thought fit to give victory to the cause of the just.

By command of Major-General Meade.

S. Williams, A.A.G.

On the 4th of July, 1863, Vicksburg, a strongly garrisoned town on the Mississippi River, and the key to the commerce of the Western States, surrendered to the national forces under Major-General U. S. Grant. This important event, occurring the same day with the news of the defeat of the invading army at Gettysburg, thrilled the national heart with gratitude and general joy. Thanksgivings to Almighty God ascended from the loyal people in all parts of the Northern States. The following scene at Philadelphia on the reception of the news on the 7th of July is one of great solemnity and sublimity, heightened by the associations and remembrances of the day on which these great victories were achieved, and the historic inspirations of Independence Hall. The ministers of religion who officiated in this scene of patriotism and piety stood exactly in the same spot where the Declaration of Independence was read eighty-seven years before. The editor of the "North American and United States Gazette," of Philadelphia, Morton McMichael, described the scene as follows: -

We have read of the first prayer offered in the Continental Congress, and of the sublimity and impressiveness of the scene as the assembled body knelt while Jehovah was praised for the workings of his providence in ordaining freedom to America.

Independence Square yesterday saw a sight emulating it in solemn grandeur, and presenting a spectacle Philadelphia never before witnessed, never may again. The tidings of the progress of the Union arms brought it about. When first promulgated, a large number of the members of the Union League met coincidently at the League rooms. The throng increased until the place was nearly filled. Everybody had left their places of business, and the members instinctively sought the League House for mutual congratulation.

It was proposed that something more than an informal recognition of so bountiful a blessing of victory should be made, and the gentlemen present took steps to make it. Birgfeld's Band of forty-six instruments was secured, and, with this at its head, the Union League, headed by the Rev. Kingston Goddard and Rev. Dr. Brainerd, moved down Chestnut street to Independence Square, keeping step to the glad strains of national airs that have been familiar since the dear days of youth's earliest dreams.

As the end of the line reached the square, all were uncovered. The line filed to right and left, when Hon. Charles Gibbons ascended the steps of Independence Hall. The concourse of people that now poured into the square were thousands in number. They spread over a surface beyond earshot of the loudest enunciation.

Mr. Gibbons made a brief address. He said that this day the beginning of the end is in view. The rebels are losing their strongholds, the cause of the Union is approaching its final triumph. He drew a picture of what we were as a nation, what we are, and what, in God's providence, we shall be. He spoke briefly and to the point, but was so overwhelmed with cheers that we failed to catch his speech as he uttered it.

Rev. Dr. Brainerd now bared his head; and instinctively - we believe reverently, as by an intuitive impulse - every man present was uncovered. A hush fell upon the densely-crowded assemblage as the hand of the reverend doctor was raised and an invitation given to the multitude to follow him in rendering thanks to Heaven for its many mercies and for crowning the arms of the country with victory.

Amid more profound silence, we verily believe, than an equal number of people ever kept before, Dr. Brainerd gave praise. He thanked the Almighty for the victories that were now crowning our arms. He had chastened us in his displeasure, and alike in that chastening as now in the blessing upon our work he recognized the hand of the Omnipotent. He implored the Divine blessing upon the country and its people, - that religion and truth and justice might take the place of pride and arrogance and vain-glory, and that this people might recognize in every event of life the ruling of Divine power. He prayed for the President and Cabinet, for the continued success of our arms and for the restoration of our national unity, for liberty to the oppressed, for freedom to worship God everywhere, and for the coming of that day when his kingdom shall extend over the whole earth.

When at the close of his prayer the Christian minister pronounced the word "Amen!" the whole multitude took up the Greek dissyllable, and as with one mighty voice re-echoed it, reverently and solemnly, "Amen!"

While this prayer was being offered, the band silently disappeared. As the final word of the supplication was pronounced, a strain of sacred music burst from overhead. The band had ascended to the State-House steeple, and there played, with effect that no tongue can adequately describe, the air of Old Hundred, written by Martin Luther more than three centuries ago.

Spontaneously a gentleman mounted a post, and started the melody to the words,

"Praise God, from whom all blessings flow."

The whole multitude caught it up, and a doxology was sung with a majesty that Philadelphia never before heard. Every voice united. The monster oratories that we have heard, with a vocal chorus of three hundred singers, dwindled into insignificance in comparison to it. Rev. Dr. Goddard then pronounced the benediction, and the vast audience again covered themselves and slowly dispersed. The whole scene was remarkable. It was a touching illustration of the fact that down deep in every man's heart, no matter what may be the utterance of his lips, or his daily walk and conversation, there is a recognition of the fact that the Lord reigneth.

8.1) Proclamation by the Governor of Maryland.

To the People of Maryland.

State of Maryland, Executive Department.

The recent occurrences within or near our borders are well calculated to profoundly excite the devotional feelings of our people, and incline their hearts to offer to Almighty God their earnest thanks for his agency in delivering the State from the dangers which recently threatened it, in driving the invaders from our soil, and in crowning with victory the efforts of those to whom, under his providence, we are indebted for that deliverance.

Humbly, therefore, acknowledging our dependence on his favor, so often before and now again so conspicuously extended to us, let us embrace the earliest opportunity of publicly confessing it.

I, therefore, earnestly recommend to the people of the State to unite, on Sunday next, the 19th instant, in their usual places of public worship, in humbling themselves before God in acknowledgment of his recent mercies; and, while we offer up our thanks for the deliverance he has sent and the victory he has vouchsafed to us, let us humbly entreat that his wisdom may so direct the councils of our rulers that the result of these achievements may be the speedy restoration of our beloved country to its former condition of a united, peaceful, and prosperous people.

Given under my hand and the great seal of the State, this fifteenth 
day of July, in the year eighteen hundred and sixty-three.

A. W. Bradford.

By the Governor:
Wm. B. Hill, Secretary of State.

The loyal ministers and Churches of Maryland responded to the appointment of the Governor, and the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese issued the following circular letter: -

To the Clergy and Laity of the Diocese of Maryland.

Dear Brethren: - The Governor of the State having recommended to the people to unite on Sunday next, the 19th instant, in their usual places of worship, in humiliating themselves before Almighty God in devout thanksgiving for his recent mercies, in delivering this State from invasion and crowning with victory the arms of its lawful Government, you are earnestly requested and recommended to give due and religious heed to this laudable recommendation of the civil authority; and, in order thereto, I hereby set forth for use at the Morning Prayer, instead of the Venite the last "Psalm or Hymn of Praise" in the office of "Forms of Prayer to be used at Sea;" and in both Morning and Evening Prayers, after the general thanksgiving, the collect in the same office which follows the aforesaid Hymn of Praise.

Your loving friend and brother,

William Rollinson Whittingham,

Bishop of Maryland.

Baltimore, July 16, 1863.

Back to top

9) National Thanksgiving.

The President of the United States, in view of the important victories of the national armies, and in obedience to the wishes of the Christian public and his own feelings, issued the following

PROCLAMATION.

It has pleased Almighty God to hearken to the supplications and prayers of an afflicted people, and to vouchsafe to the army and the navy of the United States victories on the land and on the sea so signal and so effective as to furnish reasonable grounds for augmented confidence that the Union of these States will be maintained, their Constitution preserved, and their peace and prosperity permanently restored. But these victories have been accorded not without sacrifices of life, limb, health, and liberty, incurred by brave, loyal, and patriotic citizens. Domestic affliction in every part of the country follows in the train of these fearful bereavements. It is meet and right to recognize and confess the presence of the Almighty Father and the power of his hand equally in these triumphs and in these sorrows.

Now, therefore, be it known that I do set apart Thursday, the sixth day of August next, to be observed as a day for national thanksgiving, praise, and prayer; and I invite the people of the United States to assemble on that occasion in their customary places of worship, and, in the forms approved by their own consciences, render the homage due to the Divine Majesty for the wonderful things he has done in the nation's behalf, and invoke the influence of his Holy Spirit to subdue the anger which has produced and so long sustained a needless and cruel rebellion, to change the hearts of the insurgents, to guide the counsels of the Government with wisdom adequate to so great a national emergency, and to visit with tender care and consolation throughout the length and breath of our land all those who, through the vicissitudes of marches, voyages, battles, and sieges, have been brought to suffer in mind, body, or estate; and finally to lead the whole nation, through the paths of repentance and submission to the Divine will, back to the perfect enjoyment of union and fraternal peace.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the city of Washington, the fifteenth day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-eighth.

Abraham Lincoln.

By the President:

William H. Seward, Secretary of State.

In obedience to the proclamation of the President, Bishop Alonzo Potter, of the Diocese of Pennsylvania, prepared and sent to the congregations under his pastoral care the following form of thanksgiving. It expressed the Christian feeling of the nation: -

Almighty and everlasting God, who art the author and giver of all good things, who visitest the earth and blessest it, crowning the year with thy goodness, and giving to all their meat in due season, we praise and bless thee for thy unbounded kindness to the people of this land. Our fathers hoped in thee, they trusted in thee, and thou didst deliver them. We thank thee, Lord our God, for the goodly heritage which we enjoy, and for blessings unbounded, both temporal and spiritual, which through thy patience and long-suffering are still continued to us. We bless thee for civil and religious liberty, for the administration of justice, and for all the privileges which pertain to us as individuals and families, as Christians and as citizens. Grant that a sense of this thy great goodness may engage our hearts and lives in thy service. Give wisdom and strength and union to our public councils. Bless the Governor and magistrates of this Commonwealth, and all who exercise civil or military authority among us. Bless our Churches and all our religious institutions. Bring back once more peace and concord to our borders. Increase and multiply upon us thy mercy, that, thou being our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal that we finally lose not the things eternal. All which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen.

Almighty God, the sovereign commander of all the world, in whose hand is power and might which none is able to withstand, we bless and magnify thy great and glorious name for these happy victories, the whole glory whereof we would ascribe to thee, who art the only giver of victory. And, we beseech thee, give us grace to improve this great mercy to thy glory, the advancement of thy gospel, the honor of our country, and, as much as in us lieth, to the good of all mankind. Imprint deeply on our hearts such a lively and lasting sense of these great deliverances as may incite us to a true thankfulness, such as may appear in our lives by an humble, holy, and obedient walking before thee all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with thee and the Holy Spirit, as for all thy mercies, so in particular for these victories, be all glory and honor, world without end. Amen.

Eternal God, the shield of our help, beneath whose sovereign defence thy people dwell in safety, we bless and praise, we laud and magnify thy glorious name for all thy goodness to the people of this land, and especially for the success with which of late thou hast crowned our efforts to maintain the authority of law and to restore once more the blessings of union and peace. Inspire our souls with grateful love; lift up our voices in songs of thankfulness; make us humble and watchful in our prosperity, and prepare us for whatever reverses thou shalt see that we need. Give wisdom and grace to our rulers. Pour constancy and courage and charity towards all men into the hearts of our people. Draw towards us those who are now alienated from us in appearance or in heart, and hasten, Lord of hosts, the blessed day when as one people we may once more give thanks unto thee in thy holy Church, and by our daily lives show forth thy praise, through Jesus Christ our most blessed Lord and Saviour. Amen.

The Governors of several States, and the mayors of some of the larger cities and towns, issued proclamations in harmony with that of the President, in which there were official recognitions of God as the author of these national victories, and of the responsibility of the nation to the Divine government. Christian denominations gratefully and joyfully responded to these invitations, and the people went up to the temples of God and entered into his gates with thanksgiving and into his courts with praise. The day was memorable in the civil and Christian annals of the republic, and presented the sublime spectacle of a whole nation offering praise and prayer unto the Lord of hosts, who had ever been its shield and guide and who again had wrought this signal deliverance. It had the happy effect of diffusing and deepening the religious element of the nation, and giving to the public mind and conscience a more practical sense of dependence on God, and a higher appreciation of the value and vital necessity of the Christian religion to the perpetuity and permanent prosperity of the nation.

This volume, which traces to the Christian religion the life, character, genius, fruits, and fame of the civil institutions of the United States, closes while these songs of thanksgiving and praise are echoing through the land. The historic and Christian facts of the volume are full of sublime significance and instruction to all classes of American citizens, and reaffirm, in prophetic voice, the declaration of one of the purest patriots and most accomplished statesmen of the republic, "THAT THE BIBLE IS THE ONLY GENUINE MORAL CONSTITUTION OF SOCIETY, AND ITS PRINCIPLES THE ONLY SAFE FOUNDATION OF ALL CIVIL AND POLITICAL ESTABLISHMENTS."

Back to top