The Christian Church and Society, New London and East Nottingham Townships, Chester County

THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH AND SOCIETY NEW LONDON AND EAST NOTIINGHAM TOWNSHIPS, CHESTER COUNTY (CONTINUED FROM44:227) T he earlier meetings at Mount Olivet focused on receiving new members and on organizational matters as members defined the nature of the church. With the first meeting transcribed below, things changed. They began with a decision on what to name the church cemetery, but it was followed by drama-a letter of resignation from one of the organizing members and his wife, followed a few months later by another member resignation, and then by the resignation of the pastor. As the minutes continue, there are clear indications that even more members are no longer attending church meetings. CHURCH RECORDS Mount Olivet Sepr 29 1849 At the regular Church Meeting held this day at 2 Oclock p.m. After reading the scriptures Singing and prayer, the meeting organized. Bro Joel Harland president, on Motion, Resolved that the minutes of last meeting be read, adopted Our pastor presents his report for the year ending August 16, 1849 setting forth expences &c &c &c &c On Motion Resolved that the Report be accepted On Motion Resolved that the name of the burial ground be known as "the Christian Burial Ground at Mount Olivet.["] Resolved that the consecration of the burial ground lay over till after obtaining the deed. - A resolution from Our Pastor, respecting}. F. Heilenman and Mary his wife, Whereas Brother J. F. Heilenman and Sister Mary Heilenman, his wife, have presented to this Church what purport to be a resignation from it- and whereas this Church does not Know of any scripture authority; or precedent for presenting and accepting resignations, and whereas in said letter, purporting to be a letter of resignation, no cause or reason whatever is assigned for this procedure, and it being the solemn duty of the church to maintain the order established by Christ and his Apostles-therefore be it resolved that the Clerk of this Church be instructed to notify Brother and Sister Heilenman to attend a church meeting which may now be provided for, and then and there show cause or reason for their apparent disaffection and why they have taken this step. • adopted Resolved, that the public may know that our profession of liberality and freedom are sincere, that the clerk of this Church be authorized to notify the Elders of the Rock, Stjohns Wesley Chapel New London, the Disciples, the Friends, and the Mt Rocky Churches, that this meeting house is open to their Ministers, and such of their congregations, as may desire to attend, when not 352 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 44 (2006) 2006 The Christian Church and Society, Chester County 353 occupied by our own Minister and people and the.re if they are willing to unite with us in labor & worship Resolved that should any of our Members, at any time, discover upon the trees or fences, around us, any disrespectful notices, calculated to mar the peace of the ociety or neighbourhood 1 that they take the same immediately down and preserve them, without ever naming it to any person. on Motion that the same lay over till the next meetingOur pastor respectfully presents to the Church one Copy of the Pew edition of the Christian Psalmist, for the pulpit, and one Copy, pocket edition for the basement. Resolved that the same be accepted. Resolved that we adjourn till Saturday Octr 13- Closed with prayer. John Benge Mount Olivet Oc{ 13 1849 At an adjourned meeting as by appointment, held this day after reading the Scriptures Singing and prayer, organized, Q. K. Steel, Secretary) for the pur• pose of hearing Brother and Sister Heilenman's reason for leaving the church in the manner they have done. They neglecting to appear after being notified to do so, be it therefore Resolved, that, Whereas John F. Heilenman, and Mary his Wife, having failed to comply with the request of this church, to meet them to day, and show cause why he and she are acting thus-and whereas it is the deliberate opinion of this church that they do not intend to obey the church, or respect the authority of the new Testament, and as it is the duty of this church to learn if possible the reason of their apparent disaffection, therefore be it Resolved, that the Elders of this church be directed in com• pany, to visit Brother & Sister Heilenman, for the purpose of religious exer• cises, and to ascertain from them the cause or reason, the causes or reasons of their pursuing their present course-that they make a minute of their cause or reason, and report the result, at the church meeting, to be held on the last Saturday of this month. Resolved that Brother wm Vinsinger be elected sexton-adopted On Motion adjourned Closed with prayer Q. K. Steel) Mount Olivet Octr 27 1849 Toe regular Church Meeting, held this day at 2 Oclock p.m. After singing, Reading the criptures and prayer, the Meeting organized, Brother Thomas tern president- The minutes of the last meetings were read and adopted.An Application from Susanna Steel to become a Member of this Church, recommended by letter Resolved that she be admined.The Elders report the result of their visit to Brother J. F. Heilenman & Wife, that they have no apparent cause to show why they have left the Church, on motion Resolved that their report be accepted. On Motion Re olved that the church m ct on Saturday next at 2 Oclock p.m. Resolved that the quarte.rly meeting commence on Thursday November 15th next Resolved that we adjourn. Closed with prayer John Benge t On M tion Resolved that a Sermon be preached in this hou c on thursday next 29 nn (thanksgiving day). J hl Df4Mk::t\C!(l ,._........ t On Motion-Resolved that a collection be taken once a Month to defray the expences of the Sexton, Resolved that we adjourn, Closed with prayer Jno Benge Clk Mount Olivet Deer 29. 1849 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society held thi day, at 2. P.M. Bro Joel Harlan in the chair, In the ab enc of the Clerk, C. H. Plummer was appointed Clk, pro tcm pore The Meeting was regularly opened by the reading of the Scriptures~ inging and prayer The Minutes of the last Church Meeting were read, and on Motion, ado te.d, D. W. ontgomery, through brethren}. cott andJ. Harlan, gave noti church, that he would want the hou e occupied by the Pastor of this on the 151 of April next. The case ofJ. F. Hellen.man & wife, being yet undisposed of, it was on tion- Resolved that their case be made the order of next Saturday we P.M. & that the church when it adjourns, do adjourn to meet at that ti C.H. Plummer, proposed, that). F. Heilenman and wife to be left entu I without excuse, and the church be placed far above the reach of om I from any quarter, that notice be given them to attend the adjourn'd s meeting in two weeks from to day- which after due consideration, it thought from the conduct of J. F. Heilenman & wife, in disobeying th the church &c, that it wa not necessary, and on MotionResolved that no further notice should be given them, - Resolved that r .t "'''' ....." I , r,I r 2006 The Christian Church and Society, Chester County Mount Olivet JanY l An adjourned Church Meeting of the Christian Society held this day at Present Brethren Scott, Harlan, Pratt Kjmble, Vinsinger, Strickland, S Steele & Plummer, Opened by reading of the scriptures Singing & pra The President]. Harlan in the Chair In the absence of the Clk C.H. Plu r was appointed to act Pro-tempore. The Minute of the last regular Me were read and on Motion approved of. It having been announced that the express object of this meeting was po e of the case of J. F. Heilcnman & wife now pending, as well as the I • tion of a brother to fill the Vacant Deaconshlp- the following preamble and r oJutions were read and ubmittcd for con ideration- Whereas John F. Heilenman, and Mary his Wife. having now for several months, neglected their duty in not attending the meetings of this church, for public worship, and having utterly refused to meet the church, in regular Church Meeting, for three times, after having been notified to do so, by the clerk, the Elders, and the Pastor; and two regular Church Meetings having pas ed by, since they were so notified 1 and give reason or reasons and show cause or causes, for their disaffection; and whereas they having refused to give any reason, or show any cau c for their neglect of duty. or to obey the command of the church- It therefore becomes the plain and obvious duty, in view of the welfare of thls church, as well as the disaffected membe~ for the reasons above assigned, to maintain the authority of Christs Government, as contained in the New Testament Scriptures- by passing the following Resolu• tions- to WitResolved that thl Church, after protracted deliberation, fervent labor, and much prayer does now withdraw all Christian fellowship from the said John F. Hellenman and Mary hls wife, until such time, a they hall ee the Sinful• ne of their course, repent of the ame. and make an humble confession of their faults to the church, and the public congregation. Resolved that the above preamble & Resolution be read in the public meeting, by one of the Elder of this Church on n · xt Lord day morning at the close of the servicesIt was moved and seconded that the preamble and Resolution be adopted; after due discussion in which Me s Scott, tern, Steele, Vinsinger and Plummer participated, they were put to vote and adopted unanimously In the discu ion it was shown from the New Testament, that it is the duty of the Churchfrom evcrvbrother and sister who wal.keth disorderly- ..._T_· _ 1. 5; To withdraw ourselves &c- 2 Toes ,w proceed to elect a brother to fill th election be this- The list of Male Men the office of Elder or Deacon, be th ~ch member present, write or cause t I aper the name of the brother whom l and that the ame be deposited in a h esire to vote the clerk shall count off 356 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 44 same, and when the result is known, the brother having the highest number of votes shall be elected The Church proceeded to vote as directed by the resolutions. The following wasthe re ult- N. Tyson 7 votes, C. W. Kimble 1 vote . Tyson was declared to be elected-to serve for the unexpired time forwbichJ. F. Heilenman was elected- J. K. Steele was unanimously reelected to serve as Treasurer one year from the 29 th of December 1849 C. H. Plummer, mentioned that according to the notice of D. W. Montgomery, he supp ed that he should be obliged to change his residence. He labored under one very great difficulty- that of his engagements expiring on the 16th of Augu t & the time for renting houses being the 1st of April This made him feel always unsettled. In the event of a seperation of Pastor and P ople, it would ubjeet him to considerable los , more than he felt able to bear. He mentioned also that he had a pro pect of getting Mr W 111Booths house, where Mr Tho' Strickland now resides, for the rent of $40.00, The priveleges being a ow Kept, a small orchard, a piece of grass ground for potatoes, garden and stable. The Church engaged to become responsible for the payment of the ballance of the rent, if circumstances hould be such that we hould seperate on or after the 16 of August next The Pa tor gave notice of his intended Southern trip to the south part of Virginia- if he could be spared a few weeks, and that it would best suit his arrangements to lease immediately after the next quarterly meeting It wa also mentioned that the attendance of some of our member wa to irregular. that it was now neces ary for the church to have an understanding of what it had a right to expect from them On Motion adjourned Closed with prayer, C. H. Plummer C1kPro_tem_pore On Lords day Jan 1 13 1850, the Resolutions withdrawing all Christian fellowship, fromJ. F. Heilenman and Wife, were read in the public congregation by one of the Elders Mount OlivetJanY 26. 1850 The regular Church meeting held this day at 2 Oclock P.M. After reading the scriptures Singing and prayer, the Meeting Organized, Brother wm Vinsinger in the Chair in the ab ence of the Pre ident. The Minute of the la t meeting were read and on Motion adopted. Brother & Sister Wilkinson were present and stated their reasons for wi hing to withdraw membership from this churchResolved, that before Brother & Sister Wilkinson can be di mi d by this Society, they be instructed to apply to any church, and enquire of them, if they will receive them, provided, this church will honorably discharge them by letter. It was Resolved that Brother Gordon be invited to attend our next Quarterly Meeting, which will commence on thursday FebY14 next. A Letter pre ented by our pastor received from Elder H. Grew, Resolved. that it be read to Morrow to the public Congregation. Our Pastor reque ted that 2006 The Christian Church and Society, Chester County 357 his Report for the Year ending Augu t 16. 1849 be inspected. Resolved that we convene to Morrow after Morning service to appoint a committee of three to inspect it Resolved that we adjourn. Close with prayer John Benge-, Clk Lords day JanY27. 1850 A meeting convened by appointment to Select three as a committee to in- spect our Pastors a/cResolved that Brethren Kimble Stern & Benge meet on Saturday FebY2° at 2 0 Clock P.M. J. B.Mount Olivet FebY2. 1850 According to Appointment the Committee met this day and adjourned to Thursday FebY 14 after careful examination the accounts were found to agree with the Treasurers, The Committee presents to the Church a copy of our Pastors expences, presents & produce received & consumed and our report, we submit for the Church to act J. B.Mount Olivet FebY23 1850 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society held this day at 2 Oclock P.M. After reading the Scriptures singing and prayer, the meeting organized, Brother wm Vinsinger in the chair in the absence of the President, The Minutes of the last monthly meeting were read and on motion adopted The Committee present their report (on our Pastor's report) to the church, Resolved that it be accepted.Whereas Brother & Sister Wilkinson did not comply with the resolution of last Church Meeting they are hereby requested to apply to the St John's church and require their names to be struck off the Classbook, and the ascertain if they will admit them as full Members of that church provided this church will honorably discharge them by letter, adopted Our pastor presents a Letter from Brother G. F. Gordon, Resolved that it be read to morrow (Sunday FebY24)- Our Pastor requested permission to take the report presented by the committee which was granted On Motion Resolved that we adjourn Closed with prayer J.B.Lords day June 30 1850 A Special Church Meeting of the Christian Society was held at 2½ Oclock P.M. by Mutual consent; present Brethren, Harlan, Steele, Pratt, Vinsinger, Kimble, cott, Stern, Kerns Benge C. H. Plummer & Sister Phebe Wil onOn motion of Bro Kimble, it was resolved that the subject of fencing in the grave yard be acted on first, Resolved that the fence be set on aturday July 13. at 8 AM. adopted On Motion R olved that the Elders of the church ait on Robert & Phebe Wilkinson to ascertain if they have comply'd with a resolution passed at last church meeting.- 358 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Whereas Brethren Harlan & Vinsinger refuse to receive any pay for -~• care of this house as sextons, we the church present to Mrs Sarah Harl:.t Levina Vin inger each the sum of $2½ as compensation for the intere. r therein, during the tenn of their sextonship.- On Motion Resolved th Church agree to pay to the sexton $10 for his services, till the first day April 1851 to be paid monthly- The con ideration for the price of int n lay over for the present; on Motion Resolved that we adjourn till Satur 20 Closed with prayer Mount Olivet July 20 1850 An adjourned special Meeting of the Christian church. held according to adjournment on Saturday at 5,½ Oclock P.M. present-Brethren Harlan, Steele, Kimble, Wilson. Pratt, Scott, Kern Stern & Plummer, opened in the usual order Voted that). Harlan be appointed President pro-tem-por & C H. Plummer pro-tern-pore in the absence of broth r Benge. On motion it was resolved that bro J. Harlan be reelected president, & bro J Benge be reeleeted clerk, for the term of one year from the expiration of their former term. Toe Eld rs reported in bro. R. and Sis. P. A. Wilkinson' case, that they had waited upon them, & learned from him, that they have not and do not intend to comply with the resolution of th.is church requiring to ask of the St John's M. E. Church; if they would receive them into full fellowship, if this Church would honorably discharge them by letter. The repon of the Elders was accepted. The following Preamble and Resolution were then introduced and on Motion adoptedWhereas Robert & Phebe A. Wilkinson did while they were members of this church go and authorize their nam to be put upon the dassbook of the t. John's M. E. Church, and believing such a course to be contrary to the laws and order of the New Testament, and as they have entirely di obeyed the commands of the church in inquiring of the said St. Johns M. E. Church if they would receive them into full fellowship, if this church would honorably discharge them by letter. Therefore be it- Resolved- that this Church does now in Church meeting; assembled, withdraw christian fellowship from them- Resolved that one of the Elder be authorized to read the same in the public congregation to morrow On motion the case of ister Sarah Benge was taken up, Bro Plummer called upon to make a statement of the case of Sister Sarah Benge. He .... ,~ that it was true that she had offered herself as a member of the Pre b} Church at ew London, and had been received, without first dissolvi K connextions with this, she also stated her reasons for so doing, and ot ticulars On Motion the Elders were instructed to visit her for conference and command her to meet the church, at such church meeting as the chu n provide, Resolved that the church meet in two weeks from to day, to hear her 2006 1he Christian Church and Society, Chester County 359 On Motion of brother C. W. Kimble it was Resolved that Elders wait upon A. Montgomery to inquire if certain reports are true, & to command him to appear at the amc time. On Motion adjourned, Qosed with prayer C. H. Plummer --Clk Protempore Lords day June 9. 1850 Sister Harriet Simmons was received into church Membership by vote-and right hand of fellow hip by the Pastor, And was immersed in Me rs Richardson Race at 2 Odock P.M. Mount Olivet Aug 3. 1850 A Special Church Meeting of the Christian Society held this day at 2 odock P.M.After reading the Scriptures Singing & prayer the meeting organized Brother J. Harlan pre ident. Members present, Harlan, Stern, Scott, Kimble teele, Davidson, Tyson, Lynch, Kerns Benge & Chas. H. Plummer. The Elders report their interview with Brother A Montgomery & Sister Sarah Benge requesting their attendance here this day, On motion resolved that their report be r ccivcd-The following Preamble and Resolutions were read, and submitted for consideration- Whereas Sister Sarah Benge having presented herself as a candidate for admission to membership, to the Pre byterian church. so caUed, of cw London, and been receiv 0 while a full member, in good standing, in this church; and believing in so doing, that he has acted improperly, and contrary to order, though perhaps innocently, through a designing influence exerted upon her- Therefore be it Resolved that she be commanded to inform, or that this church in her behalf inform the Presbyterian Church at . London, that its course toward her and this church has been wrong and injudicious; and that they from this time forth, while they may acknowledge and hear her as a disciple of Christ, cease to regard her as a member of their church- Resolve that she never having di solved her connection with this church. still remains a member thereof- To all of which he does most heartily and truly consent.- on Motion adopted On Motion Resolved that Elder Cha 1 H. Plummer accompany Sister Sarah Benge to Mr Dubois (on thursday next Augst 8.) and tat the contents of the resolution and through him to the church, Resolved that this church does now require of Alexander Montgomery, that on lords day Aug t 18 in the morning before the service commence. he make a public confession of his in, and receive from one of the Elders a pu~ lie rebuke, while the church require that he attend regularly the meetings, that he be and hereby is prohibited from taking any part in the public exercises, until such time as the church may be satisfied that he has repented- on Motion adopted On Motion adjoined, Closed with prayer John Beng Clk Mount Olivet Sep 1 7. 1850 The Regular Church Meeting held this day, opened by the reading of the Scriptures, Singing & prayer. 360 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 44 In the absence of the president & Secretary, Bro. C. W. Kimble was chosen president, & Bro C. H. Plummer Clerk, Members present, Kimble, Scott Steele, Stern, Wilson Kerns & Plummer. The Minutes not being present on Motion that their reading be dispensed with. 5 Brother Scott informed the church that Mess G. Kimble & Son, wcr desirous of having the amount due them for brick immediately paid, To be further considered at the dose The case of Sister arah Benge came up, Brother Plummer gave an account of his interview with Mr R. P. Dubois, in the presence of Sister Benge: who denied that she ever gave her consent to the passage of the Preamble & Resolution relating to her Resolved that a corn.mittee of three be appointed to prepare a communication to meet this case, to be addressed to the Elders of the Presbyterian Church of New London. On Motion Brethren Plummer, Scott & Kimble, were appointed said Committee, It was then Moved and Seconded that two more be added to the committee, which Motion was lost. Upon the question, what shall be done with Sister Sarah Benge? It was agreed that the final disposal of her case be for the present deferred The following Preamble & Resolution, were adopted whereas, it is thought de irable that a public celebration, be given by the Union Sabbath School~ attached to this Church, at some period before its close, when it may be most convenient.. in view of this be it, Resolved that the Superintendent, Librarian, & Teachers of the School, be a committee to fix the time of the Celebration, and make all necessary arrangements. On Motion adjourned Closed by prayer. C. H. Plummer, Clk, P.T.P. Mount Olivet No~ 2. 1850. The Regular Chur h Meeting held this day at one O,Clock. P.M. Opened by reading of the criptures Singing and prayert In the Absence of the President & Qerk, Brother T. Stem was President & Brother C. H. Plummer was chosen Oerk. The Minutes of meeting held Sept 7 1850 were read & on motion adopted The Committee app inted on the 7 of Sept to prepare a communication to be addres ed to the Elders of the Presbyterian Church, to meet the case of arah Benge presented the following report. Report of the Committee. The Report was accepted, On Motion of Bro Kimble, that in the specifications of error on the pan of the Presbyterian Church, that the word Communion be trickcn out and the word memberhip in crtcd, adopted, On motion of Bro Scott that there be incorporated in the document the fact that Sarah Beqge, attended the Special Church M eting appointed for her by the express command of the church, as conveyed to her by the EldersadoptedThe report as amended was unanimously adopted. 2006 The Christian Church and Society, Chester County 361 The ase of A. Montgomery came up as unfinished business, the following was offered, Whereas, as Alexander Montgomery has for ome time past committed certain immoralities, and having been brought under the discipline of the Church and manifested his sorrow for the same, by confessing his sinS agreeing to make a public confession, receive a public rebuke, and be suspended from all Church priviliges until such time as the Church should be satisfied of his full repentance. And having failed entirely to do so, Therefore be it- Resolved, that this Church does now express its decided disapprobation of his conduct, and withdraw from him all Christian fellowship. Resolved that the above preamble & Resolution be red tomorrow morning at the commencement of the services, by one of the Elders- adopted On Motion that we adjourn to meet tomorrow at the close of the exercises Closed by prayer C.H. Plummer, Clk P.T.P. Mount Olivet Deer 14th 1850 Agreeable to appointment there was a special Church meeting held in the Chapel this day, members present J. Scott, C. W. Kimble, Joel Harlan, wm Vinsinger, J. D. Kerns,Jn° K Steele, & C.H. Plummer, Mter reading of Scripture and prayer, the meeting organized. J. K. Steele was appointed Secretary, pro. tempore, in the absence of of [sic] Br0 Benge Clerk, On Motion the settlement between the Church and our Pastor, on his first year with us was Brought up On Motion resolved that the Br0 wm Vinsinger be appointed to wait on all persons, who gave provision or other, articles of support, to our pastor during his first year with us, commencing August 16th 48 and ending August 16th 49, to obtain their signatures, and views, in order to assertain the manner of the gift, or gifts whether they were for his individual, benefit Exclusive of the church, or given towards his support to aid the church in supporting the gospel of Christ. adopted On Motion adjourned to meet this evening week at six o clock closed with prayer John K. Steele} Sect Mount Olivet December 21 st 1850 Agreeable to adjournment there was a church Meeting held in the chapel this evening. Members present BrT. Stem, C. W. Kimble,]. Harlan, N. Tyson, wm Vinsinger J.D. Kerns,]. K. Steele, G. Pratt, & C.H. Plummer. after reading & prayer the Meeting was opened for business J. K. Steele acting as Secretary. Br wm Vinsinger's report was presented with the names of seventeen persons who gave provisions to C. H. Plummer during his first year with us in aid of the church, and one name for his special benefit, A note was laid before the meeting by the pastor from David Strickland, countermanding his gift as being in aid of the church, and applying it to the Special benefit of C. H. Plummer, On Motion resolved that the bill of things said to be presents, & charged by C. H. Plummer against the Church in his first anual report which was given to him by the friends of the cause of Christ being given towards his support. & 362 Pennsylvania Genea/Qglcal Magazine Vol. 44 in aid of the Gospel, & not to his special benefit was a misunderstanding of him & them, he supposing that the things they called presents were designed for his alone or special benefit, and they intending them as o much aid to the Church in giving him the promised support, which appears by their signatures.Appended to a paper carried by wm Vin.singer agreeable to a former re olution be tricken out of the [s-lc] with the exception of the amount given him by David Strickland & Elizabeth McOeary, carried On Motion resolved the resignation of C. H. Plummer as pastor on or before the first of Aprilc next was unanimously accepted On Motion adjourned. Oosed with prayer John K. Steele (Seccy There was no Church meeting held in January .51 Mount Olivet February 1st 1851 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society was held in the Chapel this day at 2 Oclock P.M. Members present. C. W. Kimble T. Stern,]. Scott,}. D. Kern & J. K. Steele, after reading of Scriptures & prayer the meeting was organized by appointing C. W. Kimble president, & T. Stern. Seer (protempore) in the absence of the regular president & Clerk, On Motion resolved the following declaration was unanimously adopted. Whereas our pastor having sent in his resignation about the first of dccember last declaring his intention to close his labours with us as pastor on or before the first of aprile nextWhich re ignation was excepted in a Special Church Meeting held on the 21 [ of the same month, And the Church understanding that our pastor expectS a more deffinite responce, we have thought proper in Church eeting assembled, to say in answer to his expectations that the church however painful it may be for us to seperate, believe that it may be beneficial for: the advancement of the cause of our Redeemer, from the fact that a stranger can generally excite more intere ton the part of the unconverted, than one who has laboured long in the same place, On Motion resolved-that our next quarterly meeting commence on sacurday the 22 in st On Motion Resolved-that Br wm Lauer, of Bucks County, & Elder Frederick Plummer of Philadelphia & Br Guilford of New Jer ey be invited to visit us at the time of our next quarterly meeting and preach for us, Closed with prayer On Motion adjourned 0 Th Stern) Seel protempore Mount Olivet March 1 '1851 this being the regular Church Meeting day, and there not being members enough present to form a quorom it adjourned to meet on moncby evening the 3ra In t at 6 0 Cock - 2006 The Christian Church and Society, Chester CounJy 363 Mount Olivet March 3n11851 Agreeable to adjournment the meeting convened in the chapel this evening at 6. 0 Clock, members present C. W. Kimble Ja 8 Scott, . Tyson, T. Stern, J. Strickland, J. D. Kern , & J. K. Steele, after reading of scriptures & prayer the meeting organized by chooseing Br . Tyson. president & J. K. Steele, Sec\ in absence of president & Clerk On motion the declaration passed at our regular church meeting in February in regard to the resignation of our pastor, was r considered as it had not been handed over to him & the following resolution adopted. Resolved that a coppy of the above named declaration be forwarded to our pa tor by the present acting secretary On Motion resolved that Browm Lauer be written to by one of the brethem to assertain if his servises could be obtained to preach for us if so decreed by the church On Motion adjourned Closed by prayers J. K. Steele, Sect pro tern Mount Olivet Aprile 5th 1851 the regular Church meeting of the Christian Society was held this day at 2 o clock PM. members present C. W. Kimble,}. K. Steele,Joel Harlan,}. D. Kerns,]. Linch T. Stern,James Kenady Elizabeth Kenady &J. Scott. after read• ing of scriptures singing & prayer the meeting organized by chooseing C. W. Kimble, chairman & J. Scott Sect in the absence of the regular oficers On Motion the reading of minutes of previous meetings were defered they not being present. On Motion resolved BrJoel Harlan be reelected president for one year from the expiration of his last termCar. On Motion J. K. Steele was Elected Clerk for the expiration of this yearOn Motion resolved Br C. W. Kimble was elected treasurer for the balance of this year Carred On Motion adjourned Closed with prayer J. Scott} Scc1 protempore there was no Church meetings held in may, June July, & August Mount Olivet Sepr 6 th 1851 The regular Church Meeting was held this day at 2 Oclock. P.M. Members present Brethern tern, Benge, Pratt, Kerns. Davidson~ Kimble, Steele & C.H. Plummer after reading of scriptures singing & prayer, the meeting organized by choos ing BrJ. D. Kerns, presi 1 pro tem, in the absence of th regular president, On Motion the minutes of previou meetings was read and adoptedOn Motion-the plan to raise funds to pay C. H. Plummer , was considered, and the following preamble & resolutions were adopted- 364 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 44 Whereas there appears co be due to C.H. Plummer from the 16th of August1850 to the first of aprile 1851 the sum of one hundred and fifty Dollars and twenty four Cencs, for his labour dureing that time with us which is unprovided for, therefore, Resolved-that there be a subscription paper taken out in order to raise the funds to liquidate that sum or debtCarried On Motion resolved-Br James Scott be appointed to carry that subscription paper carried On Motion the care of Sarah Benge came up when the following preamble and resolutions was unanimously adoptedWhereas Sarah Benge in addition to the improper and immoral cour she pursued towards this Church in attaching herself tO the pre byterian church of New London, without dis lving her connection with the Church, ha denied in the presence of C. H. Plummer and R P. Dubois in coco,cv r giveing her consent, to the preamble and resolutions relating to her as passed by this church. in her presence, and with her consent, bas grossly and will.fully sinned, it therefore becomes the plain and obvious duty of this Church in view of its welfare, as well as the disaffected members, for the reasons above stated, or assigned, to maintain the authority of Christs government as contained in the New testament Scriptures, by passing the following resolutions to wit. Resolved that this church after protracted deliberation, fervent labour and much prayer, do~s now withdraw all Christian fellowship from her, until such time, as she shall see the sinfulness of her course, rep nt of the same, and make an humble confession of her faults to the Church, & the public congregation, Resolved that the above preamble & resolution be read in the public meeting by the clerk on next Lords day at the close of the morning servicecarried On Motion adjourned (with prayerJohn K. Steele} Clerk on lord day Sept 7 the resolution withdrawing all christian fellowship from Sarah Benge was read in the public congregation by the clerkJ. Ks. no meeting in October Mount Olivet ovember 1st 1851 The regular church Meeting was held this day at two o clock P.M. after reading of scriptures & pr2ycr the meetin.g organized by choo eing J. D. Kerns chairman in the absence of the president, present T. Stem, M. tern}. D. Kerns, & J. K. Steele, On Motion-the minutS of september meeting was read and adoptedOn Motion resolved that our next iuartedy and protracted meeting commence on aturday evening the 15 [n 51 of the present month and sunday morning and evening and on each evening through the following week if circumstances requireOn Motion resolved that Br George W. Morgan and Br win Lauer be invited to attend our quanerly & protracted meeting & preach for us 2006 The Oirlstian Oiurch and Society, Chester Coun-ty 365 On Motion resolved the Clerk be and i hereby in tructed to write to the above named brethern in order to see if their services can be obtained On Motion adjourned Closed with prayer John K. Steele Mount Olivet December 6 th 1851 The regular church Meeting was held this day at 2, o ck in the Chapel Members present,Joel Harlan,]. D. Kerns John Benge,]. K. Steele. [blank] after reading of scriptures & prayer the meeting organized presidint Harlen in the chair. On Motion the minutes of ovember meeting was read and adoptedOn Motion the reconsideratjon of the act or acts giveing the pastor a wright to say who shall or shall not ocupy this stand was brought up and the following pre.amble and resolution was unanimously adopted, Wherea , by a preamble & resolutions past by this church in church meeting assembled, on Septr 30 th 1848 this church or society or soci@tyis prohibited from granting the rite to any minister to ocupy this stand without the consent of the then regular pastor, which right past experience has proven to us, to be wrong and injudicous, and contrary to the spirit of the subscription by which this house was erected, which declares it to be built for, and owned by, the Chri tian Society, and believing the right to say who shall or shall not. ocupy this stand, belongs to this Church or society alone, and not to any Minister or pastor, therefore be it Resolved-that that portion of the above mentioned preamble & resolutions, or any other act, or acts, giveing the pastor a right to say who shall "or shall not" ocupy this stand be and the same are hereby repealed,} On motion adjourned with prayer John K. Steele) Clerk Mount Olivet Febr 7th 1852 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society was held thi day in the basem nt of the Chapel at 2 Oclock P.M. Members present Br Jame con, J. D. Kerns, T. Stet"n,J. Harlan, G. Pratt, andJ. K. teele, after reading of Scriptures and prayer, the Meeting organized, president Harlan in the Chair. On Motion-the MinitS of December Meeting was read and adopted, there was no meeting held inJanuary On Motion the subject of raising Money to pay for the graveyard was brought up & considered, & on Motion Re olved thatJohn K. Steele be and is hereby appointed to receive ub cription & collect the money, & pay over the same to John Montgomery and receive the Deed for the LandAdopted On Motion Resolved that our next quarterly Meeting take place on Lords Day the 22 In st Adopted On Motion Resolved-that a pecial Church Meeting be hcld 1 on Lords day the 15mInsc after the Morning Service, for the express purpose of asscrtaining the minds of its members on the subject of employing a preacher or pastor the ensueing yearCarried 366 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine n Motion adjourned Vol. 44 Clo d with prayer John K. teele Clerk Mount Olivet March <S'h 1852 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society was held this day in the basement of the Chappel at 2 0 dock P.M. Members pre ent J. Scott, J. Benge, W"'Vinsinger, G. Pratt, T. Stern, J5Wilson, & J. K. Steele. After reading of Scriptur & prayer the Meeting organized by appointing Br T. tern Charman pro,tempore in absence of the regular presidentOn Motion the Minlts of February Meeting was read & Adopted Whereas; owelng to the Funeral of Mary Ann Gilman which took place on the 15th of Febr the pectal Church Meeting, which was to have been held on that day, did not take place, the ref ore Resol ed, that it come up in order to-day, (Carried) On Motion, Resolved, that in the opinion of this Meeting it will be for the promotion of the cause of our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ, & the best interests of thls Church, to employ a preacher or pastor, every other Lords day. at least the ensueing year (carried On Motion Resolved-that Br wm Lauer of Bucks County be employed by this church to preach for us one half of his time the ensueing year if he can be obtained, provided, he will agree to except for his services such an amount as the church is able to raise for him & if Br Lauer's services cannot be obtained that B' G. W. Morgan, be employed if his Labours can be obtained on the terms of thls resolution,carried (unanimousResol ed-that the Clerk be & is hereby authorized to write to the brethern above named & a ertain if either of ther labours can b obtained agreeable to that resolutions;carried On Motion Resolved,-that Br Isaac Davidson be elected Sexton for one year from the first day of Aprile next at the usual salerycarri d On Motion adjourned. Closed with prayer. J. K, Steele, Clerk Mount OlivetAprile 3rc11852 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian ociety was held this day in the basement, at 2. 0 dock. P.M. Member present B' T. Stern, G. Pratt, J. D. Kerns, J. Wilson, & J, K. Steele, after reading of Scriptures and prayer, the meeting organized by appointing BrJ. D. Kerns Chairman., protcmpore. On Motion the minits of March Meeting was read & adopted This being the regular day for Electing Officers, the subject was brought before the meeting & the following persons was Elect d to fill the Vacancies,On Motion John K. Steele was reelected to act as one of the trustee of this church for two years from this day On Motion-James Scott was reelected to aet as one of the trustees of this church for three years from this dayOn Motion, wm Vinslnger was elected president for one year On Motion, J. K. Steele was reelected Clerk for one year- 2006 1h~ Christian Church and Society, Chester County 367 On Motion.Joel Harlan was eJceted treasurer for one yearOn Motion resolved, that the evening Meetings be dispensed with after 11 th of the present month(carried On Motion adjourned Closed with prayer- J. K. Steele (derk) Mount Olivet June 5th 1852 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society was held this day at 2 Oclock P.M. in the basement of the Church. Members present T. Stern, J. D. Kerns, G. G. Pratt, I. Davidson, W' Vinsinger & J. K. Steele, After Reading of Scriptures Sining [sic] & Prayer, the meeting organized president Vinsinger in the chairOn Motion the minits of Aprile meeting was read and adopted, there being no church meeting held in MayOn otion Resolved-that there be a special church Meeting held on saturday the 12 in tat 2 0 clock P.M.for the express purpose of making a final settlement with C. H. Plummer, & that he be duly notified of the same & be requested to attend that meeting prepared for settlement, carried On Motion Resolved-that the clerk is hereby authorised to notify C. H. Plummer, to attend the meeting specified in the above resolution carried The subject of holding a monthly consert & prayer meeting came up & was considered, & on Motion was defered untill next meetingOn Motion adjourned to meet on the 12 Int at 2 Oclock P.M. Closed with singing & prayer. John K. Steele Clerk Mount Olivet June 12th 1852 Agree.able to adjournment A special Church Meeting was held this day in the basement of the Church, at 2. Oclock P.M. Members present BrtnT. Stern, G. G. Pratt,). Scott, I. Davidson, wmVinsinger, &J. K. Steele, C.H. Plummer being present the meeting organized after reading of cripture and prayer president Vinsinger in Chair, A final ettlement with C. H. Plummer being the object of thi meeting after compareing accounts and duly considering the subject, it wasOn Motion resolved-that the trustees of this Church are authorised to borrow Money sufficient to pay the balance due to C. H. Plummer for his past services, if the Members do not come up and discharge the same forthwith and to add the same to the amount already borrowed & give a mortgage upon the house or church & lot as Security for the ame On Motion adjourned Closed with prayer John K..Steele Clerk J. K. Steel The above resolution was repealed at next meeting Mount OliYet November 6 th 1852 The regular Church Meeting was held this day in the basement of the Church at 2 O.clock P.M. Members present BrtnT. Stern,Ja 5 Scott,]. 0. Kerns, I. Davidson. wm Vinsinger, and J. K. Steele, the meeting organized after reading of Scripture & prayer by appointing I. Davidson Chairman pro.tern in absence of the regular president- 368 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine On Motion the minuts of June Meeting was read & adopted, there bei( church Meetings held in July, August, September & October (Whereas it has been reported to this Church that Br' John Strickland, invariably been guilty of the Sin of intemperance. & other immoral co ...- ......... insomuch so that hi wife has refu d to accompany him to Church th in view of those reports, be it resolved, that a com.mittie of two be ap to visit him in order to as ertain the authenticity of those reports, & t adjust tho e difficultys, & report to "'the" next meetingOn Motion resotv d-thatJ. K. Steele & visit Bro' Strickland wm Vinsinger be the committi earned On Motion resolved-that there be a prayer & conference meeting held on the first saturday of every month at 2 0 Oock P.M. in place of the now regular Church Meeting usually held on that day. And that the regular Church Meetings be held only quarterly which hall be held on the first saturday in August, November, February & may, preceding each quarterly Meeting, ubjeet to special Church Meetings when busin s demands it(Carried) On Motion resolved that-our next quarterly Meeting be held on the 14th of the present Month (carried) On Motion resolved-that Br Rodinbaugh of Dcleware County be invited to attend our next quarterly Meeting and preach for us on aturday evening and Sunday morning ifhe can be bad (carried) On Motion resolved-that Br E. E. Orvis be invited to preach in this church twice A Month. on the second Lords Day in the Morning & on the fourth in the afternoon from thi untill the first of April next(carried) On motion adjourned Clo ed with prayer J. K. St ele. Clerk Mount Olivet December 4m 1852 The regular Church Meeting of the Chri tian ociety held this day In the basement of the Church at 2 o.Clock P.M. Members present. J. Scott. T. Stern J. D. Kerns, I. Davidson, & J. K. Steele, after reading of Scriptures singing & prayer the Meeting organized by appointing. J. Scott president.pro.tem. in absence of the regular pr sid ntOn Motion-Mini ts of November meeting was read and adoptedThe committee in case of Br Strickland not being prepared to report. oweing one f ·n .a visit him was defercd till next mee • • guilty of a violation of the law of God rch so much so as to require an act of order to maintain her sacred rites- th,,.r..•~11111~ ree be appointed to wait upon her, & K'<!IUC5t cause why the church hall not withd llLTilo&•• cou. T. Stern &J. D. Kerns, be appoin port to next meetingsed with prayer J. K. St 2006 1he Christian Church and Society, Chester County Mount Olivet January l '' 1853 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society was held thiS day in the basement of the Church at 2 O.Clock P.M. Members present Th 0 ' tern, J. D. Kerns, I. Davidson, wm Vinsinger, J. Harlan & J. K. Steele, after reading of Scripture & prayer the meeting organized Brother Vinsinger in the ChairOn motion the minuts of decembcr meeting was read and adoptedOn Motion the committy in Br Strickland' case reported-that they visited him, & after some conversation on the subject for which they were appointed, he acknowledged to have been guilty of intemperance, but made no promise to reform or try to reform, but agreed to attend the church meeting held this day(report excepted) Whereas B' John Strickland has been guilty of the sin of intemperance, at various times while a member of this Church, and appeared to express no sorrow or regret t0 the committee that visited him & made no promise of reformation, and utterly failed to meet the Church according to promise at its regular "Church" meeting-Therefore be it resolved-that this Church does now express its decided disapprobation of his conduct and do not withdraw all Christian fellowship from him until such time as he shall ee the in.fulness of his course, repent of the same, and make an humble confession of his faults to the Church and public congregationcarried On Motion-the Committee appointed to visit Emaly Brown, do report she acknowledged to have violated the laws of God & showed some sine of repentance, the committee then enquiring if he had any reason to give why the Church should not withdraw fellowship from her-she answered not but rather de ired it( excepted) Whereas sr Ema1yBrown has been guilty of certain immoralities while a member of this Church o much as to make it the plain & obvious duty of thiS Church in view of its welfare as well as its disaffected members, for the reasons above assigned to maintain the authority of Christs Goverment as contained in the new Testament scriptures by passing the following resolution to witResolved that this Church does now in Church meeting assembled withdraw Christian fellowship from hercarried R olved-that the above preambles & resolutions be read in the public congregation on Lords day the ninth Int by the Clerk at the close of the morning service(carried) On Motion adjourned Closed with prayer J. K. Steele, Clerk Agreeable to the above the preamble & resolutions withdrawing fello •••• from J. Strickland and Emaly Brown was read on the ninth by the Cler Lords Day February 27 th 1853At 2 0 Clock P.M. Brcthem wm Benge, Henry Benge and Jame Benge immersed in Mr Mackey's race before a respectable audience, and the Hand of fellowship given to them at the close of the evening Meeting they were admited into fuU Member hjp- 370 Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine Vol. 44 Mount Olivet March 5th 1853 The regular Church Meeting was held this day in the basement of the Church at 2 O.Clock P.M. Members present Brcthern Stern, Scott, Kerns, Davidson, Pratt, & teele after reading of cripturcs & prayer the Meeting organized by appointing). D. Kerns president pro tern, in absence of the regular presidentOn Motion-the minutes of January meeting was read and adoptedno meeting in February On Motion Resolved-that the trustees of this house be and are hereby authori7.ed to borrow two Hundred dollars, on this house to pay the debts remaining against it since its erection. (carried On Motion Resolved-that Br Orvis be invited to continue his labors with us twice a month this year as he has through the part Winter & on the same terms, ( carried) On motion adjourned Closed with prayer J. K. Steele, Cleric Mount Olivet Aprile 2nd 1853 The regular Church Meeting of the Christian Society held this day in the Basement of the Church at 2 O.Clock P.M. Members present J. Scott, J. D. Kerns, I. Davidson and J. K. Steele after reading of Scripture & prayer the meeting organized by appointing Br Kerns Chairman pro. tern poreOn motion the minutes of March meeting was read & adopted, this being the regular day for Electing officers Therefore resolved-that BrJ. D. Kerns be Elected President for One year( carried) On Motion resolved-that). K. Steele be elected Secretary & treasurer for one year, (carried) On Motion resolved-that Isaac Davidson be Elected sexton for one year at the usual salery. Closed with prayer On Motion adjourned J. K. Steele Mount Olivet August 6th 1853 The regular Church Meeting was held this day in the Mount Olivet Church at 2 O Qock P.M. Members present]. D. Kerns, I. Davidson, G. G. Pratt, &J. K. Steele, after reading of Scriptures & prayer the Meeting organized president Kern in th chair- On Motion Minutes of aprtl meeting read & adopted, there being no meeting held in May,June & July. The subject of the none [stc] attendance of several of the members of this Chur~ neglecting to meet with us as the manner of some is was [stc1brought before the Meeting & con idercd & on Motion was defered untill next meeting. On Motion resolved that- our next quarterly Meeting be held on Lords Day the 21'l Insl. On Motion adjourned- Closed with prayer J. K. Steele} Oerk [ to be continued]